No bond but still No Freedom!

The next morning...

Ace wakes with a start, sunlight creeping through the blinds, a soft glow casting over the room.

Jun is curled beside him, his arm draped possessively across Ace's waist.

The closeness feels uncomfortable, yet Ace chooses to let himself to stay still, breathing evenly, pretending everything is fine.

Inside, the war rages.

His thoughts are a swirling storm—Kieran, the severed bond, and the weight of Jun's unwavering devotion.

He pushes it all down, locking it away as he eases out of Jun's hold, careful not to wake him.

By the time Jun stirs and joins Ace in the kitchen, Already leaning against the counter, sipping coffee like it's any other day.

"You're up early," Jun says, yawning as he shuffles in.

Ace smiles, the gesture light but practiced. "Couldn't sleep. Thought I'd get a head start."