CHAPTER 25

Uncle Baek felt himself relax more with Youn-Jae and Secretary Min as their light conversation flowed easily, like a gentle stream. He shared warm stories about raising Ji-Won, laughter spilling from his lips as he recounted how Byeong-Ho came into their lives. With each tale of Ji-Won's middle and high school days, Youn-Jae felt a quiet gratitude wash over him. Despite the distance that had stretched between them, Ji-Won had found his way into good hands—into a home that treated him like family, something Youn-Jae had longed to provide himself.

As time slipped by unnoticed, the three men reveled in the cozy atmosphere, soaking up the serenity that was foreign to both Youn-Jae and Secretary Min, who felt the weight of stress lift as they enjoyed the peaceful scenery around them.

"Uncle, we're back!" Byeong-Ho called out from outside, his cheerful tone cutting through the tranquility. Spotting unfamiliar shoes by the entrance, he muttered, a hint of curiosity in his voice, "Does Uncle have visitors?" as he walked into the house.

"Byeong-Ho, come here and greet our guests!" Uncle Baek beckoned, gesturing from the table where they were seated.

"Good day, Sir," Byeong-Ho bowed deeply, his eyes sparkling with eagerness.

"Where's Ji-Won?" Uncle Baek inquired, glancing toward Byeong-Ho's back. 

"He went around back to put something away in the storage," Byeong-Ho replied, shrugging slightly as he shifted his weight. 

As Ji-Won stepped through the back door, he walked directly to the kitchen, the familiarity of the space giving him momentary comfort. He first caught sight of Uncle Baek's back, but his gaze quickly darted to the two unfamiliar men at the table. Uncle Baek turned to introduce them, and as he did, Ji-Won's expression remained blank—an impenetrable mask of indifference.

"Ji-Won, greet our visitors. They came all the way from Seoul," Uncle Baek prompted, his voice gentle but firm.

Without a word, Ji-Won stepped closer, his posture rigid and closed off. He offered a brief bow, avoiding eye contact like a shield before turning and leaving the kitchen abruptly. Uncle Baek's eyebrows knitted together in concern as he lightly punched Ji-Won on the shoulder.

"What's wrong with you today? Are you tired?" Uncle Baek asked, his voice tinged with confusion and worry, casting an apologetic glance at Youn-Jae and Secretary Min. "I'm so sorry for his behavior. He must be exhausted."

"It's alright, Sir," Youn-Jae replied, though his gaze lingered on Ji-Won, who had not afforded him even a glance.

"I'll go wash up, Uncle," Ji-Won muttered, his tone flat as he continued his walk toward his room.

"Hurry up, and you too, Byeong-Ho, so we can start preparing lunch," Uncle Baek called after them, a hint of impatience creeping into his voice.

"Alright, Uncle!" Byeong-Ho responded cheerfully, eager to help.

"Sir, President, please join us for lunch if you're not too busy," Uncle Baek offered warmly, his smile genuine.

Secretary Min started to politely decline, "Actually, we have to—" but before he could finish, Youn-Jae cut in.

"We'd be honored. Thank you," Youn-Jae said, his voice steady, but his mind was elsewhere, still echoing with the chill of Ji-Won's silence.

As Uncle Baek returned to his seat, his expression softened, a slight flush of embarrassment creeping onto his cheeks. "I'm really sorry about Ji-Won's behavior. He must be tired or something. He's not usually like that."

Youn-Jae offered a gentle smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "It's really fine, Sir. He was probably just surprised to find visitors here."

Uncle Baek waved away the formality with a hearty chuckle, "Just call me Uncle. I'm more comfortable with that than 'President.'"

"If you say so, Uncle," Youn-Jae agreed, his smile widening as the tension eased slightly.

The two men laughed together, the sound warm and inviting, filling the cozy house with a sense of ease. Meanwhile, Ji-Won, who could hear the laughter from the bathroom, frowned slightly as he scrubbed his arms with soap. "Has he lost his mind completely?" he muttered under his breath, shaking his head as he tried to drown out the strange feelings swirling in his chest.

Uncle Baek moved deftly around the kitchen, expertly preparing lunch while he awaited Ji-Won and Byeong-Ho's return. The gentle clatter of pots and pans resonated in the warm, inviting space. Turning to Youn-Jae and Secretary Min, he smiled brightly, "While we're waiting, why don't you take a look around the house and the backyard? It's a bit simple, but I'm sure you'll enjoy the view."

As they stepped outside, Byeong-Ho emerged from his room, and ready to assist Uncle Baek with the food.

"Where's Ji-Won?" Uncle Baek asked, stirring a pot on the stove, his brow slightly furrowed with concern.

"He said he's going to study in his room and will come out later this afternoon," Byeong-Ho replied casually, oblivious to the underlying tension.

Uncle Baek's expression shifted from casual to worried. Setting the spatula down, he wiped his hands on a nearby towel, his determination clear as he walked toward Ji-Won's room. His footsteps were firm, purposeful, as he opened the door without hesitation, gently yet insistently grasping Ji-Won's arm.

"What's gotten into you today? Come out here," Uncle Baek urged, a mix of affection and firmness in his voice, pulling Ji-Won toward the door.

"Uncle, I just want to study here," Ji-Won replied softly, his eyes darting away from Uncle Baek's concerned gaze. He tried to be polite, but the quiet edge in his voice betrayed his frustration.

But Uncle Baek was relentless. "This isn't like you, Ji-Won. We have visitors. Don't embarrass me," he said, disappointment threading through his tone, his brow furrowed with worry.

With a reluctant sigh, Ji-Won followed his uncle's lead, joining them in the kitchen. His expression remained distant, his body tense, while Byeong-Ho busied himself setting the table and Uncle Baek focused on the stove, the atmosphere thick with unspoken emotions.

"This is all set. Ji-Won, please call them," Uncle Baek said, his voice relaxing now that he was focused on food and family.

Ji-Won stepped outside, searching for Secretary Min and Youn-Jae in the backyard. Secretary Min acknowledged him with a nod, while Youn-Jae was engrossed in his phone, only looking up after ending a call. Ji-Won's cold expression did not waver as he approached.

"The food's ready," he stated flatly.

Youn-Jae looked up, the warmth in his eyes dimming as he registered Ji-Won's detached demeanor. "Ji-Won..." Youn-Jae reached out, gently grabbing Ji-Won's wrist, the weight of longing and regret heavy in his touch.

Ji-Won quickly pulled his wrist away, his voice sharp and defensive. "What if Uncle sees us?"

"I'm sorry. I promised I wouldn't do anything... inappropriate here," Youn-Jae replied, his voice sincere yet laced with pain, as if the admission itself hurt him.

"Coming here was inappropriate enough, don't you think?" Ji-Won retorted, his gaze hardening, trying to mask the storm of emotions swirling beneath his calm exterior.

Before Youn-Jae could respond, Byeong-Ho's cheerful voice rang out, oblivious to the tension, "Hyung! The food is waiting. Come inside!" He waved them in from the window, his excitement infectious.

Ji-Won turned to leave, his expression unyielding as he walked away, the space between him and Youn-Jae heavy with unspoken feelings. The air crackled with tension, leaving Youn-Jae standing in silence, yearning for the warmth of connection that had slipped through his fingers once more.

***

Lunch ended on a calm note, but the tension between Youn-Jae and Ji-Won clung to the air like an unfinished conversation. The unease was evident, especially during a light discussion about the building. Uncle Baek, always the diplomat, kindly declined Youn-Jae's suggestion of returning to Seoul, insisting they were settled here. Ji-Won nodded quietly in agreement; moving back to Seoul would be a tremendous hassle, and neither he nor Uncle Baek seemed ready to uproot everything just yet.

As the meal wrapped up, Ji-Won began clearing the table with a practiced hand. Youn-Jae, attempting to bridge the silence, reached out to help, but Ji-Won's response was immediate, his tone curt. "You're not used to this kind of work," he said, gesturing for Youn-Jae to sit in the living room. His words were firm, yet the flicker of resentment was unmistakable.

Uncle Baek soon returned from his room, adjusting his cap as he announced, "I'll be heading to the market stall. Byeong-Ho, come along." He glanced at Ji-Won with a reassuring smile. "Ji-Won, keep the President and Secretary company while we're out."

Sensing the atmosphere, Secretary Min stood up, adjusting his coat with a knowing look. "I'll give you two a lift," he offered, then, as they stepped outside, he leaned close to Youn-Jae with a teasing smirk. "Behave, President," he whispered, his words lingering in the air as he headed to the car.

As the car disappeared from sight, Ji-Won wordlessly turned back to the kitchen, focusing on his chores. Youn-Jae followed him, his footsteps soft but determined, offering to help again. Their hands brushed as they reached for the same plate, and a spark of tension turned into a clash as neither would let go. In an instant, the plate slipped from their grasp, shattering across the floor in a piercing crack.

The sound startled them both. Youn-Jae instinctively crouched down to pick up the pieces, only to wince as a sharp edge sliced his palm. Blood pooled in his hand, dripping onto the floor.

"Sir!" Ji-Won's cold demeanor faltered, a flash of concern breaking through his guarded expression. He moved swiftly, grabbing the first aid kit from the shelf. Kneeling beside Youn-Jae, his hands worked with precision, cleaning the wound and applying the bandage. Despite his care, Ji-Won avoided eye contact, keeping his face unreadable.

"You shouldn't handle broken glass like that," Ji-Won muttered, his voice tight with tension. His words seemed layered, hinting at something deeper—an unspoken fragility between them that neither dared confront.

Youn-Jae studied Ji-Won's profile, wondering if Ji-Won's comment was only about the shattered plate or something more fragile and fractured within their relationship. Ji-Won wiped the last trace of blood from Youn-Jae's hand, his expression blank. "There's blood all over your shirt," he remarked. "You should take a shower. I'll find some clothes you can borrow."

As Youn-Jae headed to the bathroom, Ji-Won finished tidying up the kitchen, then made his way to his room. Opening his closet, he hesitated. He eyed the difference in size between himself and Youn-Jae—Youn-Jae was taller, broader, and always so put-together. Ji-Won stared at his own simple, worn clothes and felt a pang of self-consciousness. "These aren't good enough for him," he thought, but with no other option, he selected his cleanest shirt and a towel.

Stepping back into the hallway, Ji-Won approached the bathroom, only to freeze mid-step. Youn-Jae had emerged, completely naked, droplets of water glistening on his skin. Ji-Won's eyes widened in shock as the clothes and towel slipped from his grip.

"Are you crazy? Why did you come out naked?" Ji-Won's face flushed a deep red, his voice a mix of panic and exasperation.

Unfazed, Youn-Jae's lips curled into a smirk. "I called you, but you didn't respond."

Ji-Won swallowed hard, still turned away. "This is ridiculous," he muttered. "Just pick up the clothes and towel off the floor. And put something on already."

"But I'll get water everywhere," Youn-Jae teased, amused by Ji-Won's flustered state.

"I'll clean it up later!" Ji-Won's voice cracked, betraying his nerves. He stood stiffly, refusing to turn around as he sensed Youn-Jae's approach.

The sound of Youn-Jae's footsteps, the quiet drip of water, and the warmth of his proximity all made Ji-Won's heart race. Youn-Jae knelt to retrieve the clothes, and as he stood, he leaned close to Ji-Won, his breath warm against Ji-Won's ear. "Thank you," he murmured, his tone playful yet soft.

Ji-Won tensed, his face flushing even deeper. His heart thudded wildly, the proximity leaving him breathless. He felt Youn-Jae's hand brush his waist, and he instinctively pulled away.

"What… what are you doing?" Ji-Won stammered, eyes shut tightly, as if trying to block out his own nerves.

Youn-Jae chuckled. "Relax. I'm just getting dressed." He entered the room, leaving the door slightly ajar, casting a playful glance over his shoulder.

Ji-Won remained frozen, still facing away, his mind racing. "Did he leave the door open on purpose?" The thought only made his cheeks grow hotter.

"Are you just going to stand there?" Youn-Jae's voice carried a mischievous lilt from inside the room. "Or do you plan on watching me?"

Ji-Won's eyes shot open, and without thinking, he lunged forward, slamming the door shut. He stormed to the living room, his face still burning as he flopped onto the couch, arms crossed over his chest in a mix of frustration and embarrassment.

***

Youn-Jae stepped out of the room, now wearing Ji-Won's clothes. As he made his way over to the couch where Ji-Won sat, attempting to appear engrossed in a book but clearly still flustered. Youn-Jae's lips quirked into a smirk as he settled beside him, leaning his head casually onto Ji-Won's shoulder.

Ji-Won jerked his shoulder hard, dislodging Youn-Jae with a glare. "Stop leaning on me! I thought you said you wouldn't do anything inappropriate while you're here" he snapped, voice sharper than intended, though the blush still colored his cheeks.

"Ouch," Youn-Jae winced, rubbing his neck with exaggerated theatrics. "Are you trying to give me whiplash? So rude." His feigned pout made Ji-Won grit his teeth, fighting the urge to smile.

Ji-Won clicked his book shut, looking Youn-Jae squarely in the eyes. "No one told you to lean on me," he retorted, though the blush betrayed his attempt to sound indifferent.

Youn-Jae tilted his head, eyes narrowing in faux inspection. "Your face is red," he observed, inching closer, his gaze mischievous. Before Ji-Won could pull back, Youn-Jae reached up, pressing his hand against Ji-Won's forehead with an expression of mock concern. "Your temperature's normal, but… why are you so red?"

Without warning, Youn-Jae gently tugged Ji-Won's head closer, their foreheads now pressed together, so close that Ji-Won could feel Youn-Jae's breath brush his skin. The proximity was almost unbearable, their gazes locking in an unspoken tension.

"What are you doing, Hyung!" Ji-Won's voice broke, heart pounding as he shoved Youn-Jae back, breaking the charged moment.

Youn-Jae blinked in brief surprise before a gleam of excitement lit his eyes. "Wait… did you just call me Hyung? Say it again," he demanded, his smile wide and teasing.

Ji-Won's cheeks darkened further. "No! Don't get any ideas. That was a slip," he muttered, looking away, his tone a mix of embarrassment and frustration.

Youn-Jae grinned wider. "Too late," he said, sounding almost gleeful. "I'm already thrilled."

With an exasperated sigh, Ji-Won stood abruptly, grabbing Youn-Jae's wrist with firm resolve, pulling him outside toward the back door. Youn-Jae, sensing Ji-Won's unspoken urgency, followed without resistance. His eyes softened as he took in Ji-Won's grip—warm yet tense, as though Ji-Won was holding onto something fragile.

They walked silently until they reached a secluded spot overlooking the ocean. It was a quiet sanctuary, tucked away, where the sound of the waves met the gentle rustle of leaves. Ji-Won slipped off his slippers and stepped into the cool sand, bending down to run his fingers through it. A breeze tousled his hair, softening the guarded expression on his face as he lost himself in the tranquility.

Youn-Jae watched him, his gaze tender, and took off his own shoes, joining Ji-Won near the water's edge. "You enjoy playing in the water." he said quietly, stepping closer. 

Ji-Won didn't respond, but a hint of a smile played on his lips. It was all the encouragement Youn-Jae needed. Without another word, he wrapped his arms around Ji-Won from behind, drawing him close. This time, Ji-Won didn't pull away. He stiffened briefly, then relaxed, allowing Youn-Jae's arms to encircle him.

"Do you remember my promise?" Youn-Jae whispered, his voice thick with a mixture of regret and yearning. "I promised I'd bring you to the beach, remember?"

Ji-Won nodded, still staring at the horizon. His expression remained unreadable, but his silence spoke volumes. For a moment, the only sounds were the waves and the soft, shared breaths between them.

"Can you give me another chance?" Youn-Jae's voice broke slightly, a rare crack in his confident facade. "To make things right this time?"

Ji-Won inhaled deeply, steadying himself as he gently slipped Youn-Jae's arms from around him. But instead of stepping away, he held onto Youn-Jae's hand, leading him quietly into the shallow waters. The waves brushed against their ankles as Ji-Won, his gaze fixed on the endless horizon, asked in a soft but hesitant voice, "Hyung... do you really believe we can start over?"

Youn-Jae paused, releasing Ji-Won's hand only to turn him gently by the shoulders so that they faced each other. His gaze held a quiet intensity as he searched Ji-Won's eyes, sincerity radiating in every word. "Please, trust me. I'll make things right," he said, his voice carrying the weight of his emotions. "If you could just give me one more chance."

Unable to hold back his vulnerability any longer, Youn-Jae leaned his forehead against Ji-Won's shoulder, his arms falling loosely to his sides in silent surrender, as though offering himself completely, flaws and all. Ji-Won, feeling the unguarded weight of Youn-Jae's remorse, hesitated before reaching up and wrapping his arms around him. The embrace was firm yet tentative, as if Ji-Won was holding both his own pain and the fragile hope that lingered between them.

Though the hurt from the past still echoed within him, Ji-Won's arms around Youn-Jae felt like a bridge—one that neither words nor promises could have built. It wasn't forgiveness, not yet, but it was the beginning of something real. As they stood in silence, the gentle sound of the waves around them, the hug became their first step.

The story doesn't end here...