Kiss me if you can - official novel77.50%

7

Josh woke up to the faint sound of birds. Forcing his puffy eyes open, he couldn't remember where he was for a moment. The unfamiliar yet strangely ripe and confusing scent of the room brought back memories of the day before, along with a lingering sweetness in the air.

As he glanced down, Chase's neat face came into view. The man was holding him, his face resting against Josh's chest. The one who couldn't fall asleep without medicine was now in a deep slumber, as if nothing in the world could wake him at this moment.

Josh watched him for a long time, feeling both fortunate and regretful. Inadvertently, he tilted his head and placed a light kiss on Chase's closed eyelids. Chase frowned faintly in his sleep, making Josh smile silently.

He wished he could enjoy this peace forever, but he knew reality wouldn't allow it.

With a deep groan, Josh sighed and sat up. Chase furrowed his brows and stretched an arm toward him. Watching him for a while, Josh gently patted his shoulder and carefully removed Chase's arm from around him.

There was much to do before Chase woke up. Josh lifted his wrist to check his scent and was relieved to find that he smelled only of the sweet pheromone lingering from last night. He hadn't been stimulated, probably because all they had done was sleep. But he knew he couldn't keep avoiding this overwhelming tension forever.

Then, a thought struck him.

A memory he had forgotten suddenly surfaced.

If it was that guy, he might have the right medicine.

Josh carefully got out of bed, making sure not to wake Chase. He searched his phone for the number, hesitating before finally sending a message.

Years had passed. What if the number had changed? He furrowed his brows in frustration, but surprisingly, the reply came back almost immediately. Josh's face lit up as he checked the sender.

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"…?"

Chase stirred, instinctively reaching to his side, only to find the space next to him empty. Slowly, he opened his eyes. He was alone in the wide bed. His face hardened for a moment, but then the sound of water running from the bathroom reassured him. He exhaled the breath he hadn't realized he was holding.

Later, Chase rubbed his tired eyes and sat up. He debated whether to wait for Josh as he was or to go into the bathroom. Just as he was lost in thought, the bathroom door opened, and Josh appeared.

"Oh, you're awake?"

Josh had a towel wrapped around his waist, his damp hair dripping slightly as he used another towel to dry it. He walked over to Chase and kissed him lightly.

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"How do you feel?"

"…Okay."

Chase smiled and kissed him back. Wrapping an arm around Josh's neck, he tried to deepen the kiss, but Josh pulled away first.

"Wake up and shower. Don't you have an early schedule today?"

Chase frowned slightly. He did, but Josh seemed in a hurry, which bothered him. However, before he could say anything, Josh casually threw his towel aside and began pulling on the clothes draped over a chair.

"Oh, yeah. I have to go to the hospital today, so I won't be around all day."

Chase's expression darkened instantly. He was about to protest, to say that he would go with him, but then he remembered his own schedule for the day.

Meanwhile, Josh pretended to act casual, knowing Chase might get annoyed if Mark or the others pestered him about it later.

"I already had an appointment booked, so I can't cancel. Once I get back, I'll head straight to my shift…"

"Go."

Josh blinked. What did he just say?

He was puzzled, but Chase simply got out of bed and picked up his discarded clothes.

"You shouldn't skip treatment… How long will it take? A couple of hours?"

Josh roughly calculated the time. "With the round trip, maybe five or six hours?"

He deliberately exaggerated the estimate, watching for Chase's reaction. But Chase only nodded casually. Something felt off. Why was he taking it so well?

Just the day before, Chase had held onto him, making all sorts of ridiculous excuses to keep him from leaving.

"Why? You don't want to go?"

Chase raised an eyebrow at Josh, who was standing with his arms crossed, his expression suspicious.

"Why are you letting me go so easily?"

"What?"

Chase stopped. Josh narrowed his eyes, his doubts growing stronger.

"It's weird. Do you have something to hide? Why are you trying to send me off like this?"

"You're going to get treatment."

"It's still weird."

Chase, who had been watching Josh with narrowed eyes, suddenly grabbed his arm and pulled him close. Their lips met in an instant.

"…Uh."

Josh barely had time to react before Chase's tongue slipped into his mouth. Chase sighed against him, his hand cupping Josh's face as he licked at his lips, deepening the kiss. Their breaths mingled, their tongues and saliva mixing. Josh stumbled backward, hitting the wall as Chase pressed him against it, leaving no room to retreat.

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By the time their lips finally parted, both were breathing heavily.

"Then, should I skip the hospital and postpone filming?"

Chase flicked Josh's damp hair back, his voice teasing. His other hand slid down, gripping Josh's firm buttocks and pulling him closer. The heat of his arousal was unmistakable even through the thin fabric separating them.

Their lips brushed again, but before Chase could deepen the kiss, Josh hastily turned away.

"Let's save it for next time."

Chase let out a bright laugh at Josh's words. But before he could react, Josh groaned, yanked Chase's neck forward, and kissed him fiercely. However, just as things were about to escalate, Josh quickly pulled away, stepping back. Without looking back, he practically bolted out of the trailer.

He had a sinking feeling that if he didn't leave now, he might not be able to leave at all.

For now, the suspicions he had earlier were completely wiped from his mind.

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There was plenty of room for misunderstanding as the two men sat face to face in an open-air cafe. It was even more so when Josh was with Dane.

Josh had met Dane Striker while in the army. He was a handsome man with reddish-blond hair and striking blue eyes. Even now, Josh couldn't forget the shock of seeing him for the first time. Even as a fellow man, Dane had such an extraordinary appearance that it was impossible not to take a second glance.

He had always been indifferent, keeping a distance from others, with no special friends around him. Josh only got to know him after accidentally saving him, but that was more Josh's perspective than Dane's. Dane was difficult to read, his thoughts often inscrutable. Still, Josh considered him a friend.

"Here."

As soon as Josh saw him, Dane pulled out a small note and placed it on the table.

"If you go there, you'll find a suitable medicine that will suppress pheromone scents, even during heat. But be prepared for the cost."

"Thanks."

Josh checked the address on the note before crumpling it into his pocket. Watching Dane light a cigarette, he commented, "I didn't know your number was still the same."

"Too much hassle to change it," Dane replied flatly.

Josh chuckled at the blunt response and studied Dane across the table.

Even after years apart, Dane hadn't changed much. He was about two inches taller than Josh, a firefighter now, his muscular build making it easy to see why he had chosen such a demanding job. It was ironic, though—Dane had always been a staunch individualist, yet he had chosen a profession that required self-sacrifice. Still, it wasn't hard to imagine him charging into flames without hesitation. Fear had never seemed to be an issue for him.

The air of aloofness still surrounded him. Even now, leaning back casually, sipping a Dr. Pepper, he looked more like a club bouncer than a firefighter.

Dane had always had an effortless appeal. Even in a simple worn-out T-shirt and faded jeans, he managed to stand out. Sitting at this table, three different people had already stopped to stare at him. One particularly bold woman even leaned in close, a playful smile curving her lips.

"Where else would you find two handsome guys sitting in one place? Want to come to my place? We'd have a lot of fun."

She draped an arm around Dane's neck, winking at Josh. Josh smiled politely and declined. Without hesitation, Dane pressed his lips lightly to her neck and murmured, "That kid's a late bloomer."

"Oh my goodness."

"Dane."

The woman looked amused, but Josh grimaced at Dane's words. Even though he hadn't intended to sleep with her, he couldn't help but feel irritated by the remark. The woman eventually left, reassured by Dane's promise to see her next time. Once she was gone, Josh muttered, "You're going to get shot one day."

Dane simply smirked, lighting another cigarette. "Amen."

Josh stared at him in disbelief as Dane exhaled a perfect smoke ring into the air. Within a short time, three or four more people had approached Dane, making casual advances before leaving.

Eventually, Josh asked, "Still into one-night stands? Why not settle down?"

"Oh, thanks, but I like to keep my options open."

Josh snorted. "Are you planning to sleep with every woman in California?"

"Maybe men too. But don't worry, you're not my type. Neither is your sister."

Josh frowned. "Why bring up my sister?"

Even if Emma had been interested, there was no way he'd introduce her to a playboy like Dane. Still, curiosity got the better of him, and he asked, "Why not Emma?"

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Dane shrugged. "She's ugly."

"What the hell?"

Josh clenched his fists, prepared to punch him over the table. Dane remained unfazed, taking another slow drag of his cigarette.

"You can't just say that!"

"Why not?"

Josh gritted his teeth. "Because I'm her older brother, you idiot. I don't care what you think, but keep your mouth shut about Emma. Say another word, and I'll kill you."

"Yeah, yeah." Dane waved a hand dismissively. "But if you introduce me, I might reconsider. Objectively speaking, how is she?"

Josh scowled. "Not your type."

Dane raised an eyebrow, seemingly amused by the unexpected response. He exhaled another cloud of smoke and muttered, "Your taste in people is questionable."

"Too bad. I'll take that as a compliment."

Dane changed the subject. "So, what brings you here? Business?"

Josh briefly explained his current job—working as a celebrity bodyguard and receiving hospital treatment for an injury sustained on duty.

"I didn't realize it at first because the situation was similar to that time you threw a grenade at us."

"You mean the time I saved your life?"

Josh chuckled. "I don't want to owe you, so just tell me what you want in return."

"Later. A favor like that isn't something to waste."

Dane glanced at Josh's injury before taking another drag of his cigarette. "How much do you make? Hundred grand?"

Josh thought for a moment. "If you count everything, maybe. Why, are you interested?"

It was hard to imagine Dane working security, but they were always looking for capable people. Dane squinted and exhaled a stream of smoke. "That kid—you need the pillar west?"

"What?"

"Never mind."

Dane's expression remained unreadable as he flicked ash from his cigarette. His cryptic words left Josh shaking his head.

The conversation drifted from one topic to another—a story about Dane's cat, memories of the army, Peter, and random recent events.

Then Dane suddenly asked, "You like him? That Isaac guy?"

Josh hesitated. "Well, I do, but… I don't know. I didn't even realize it at first. But you can always tell when someone likes you, right?"

"I pretend not to notice. Too much hassle."

"…"

"You really didn't know? Sounds like you weren't interested in him."

Josh sighed. "I'll just ignore it from now on. It's awkward, though. It's over for me, but he still likes me. You noticed it, right?"

Dane inhaled deeply before answering. "It's probably the pheromones."

Josh studied him in silence.

"Very few people know I'm an Omega."

Dane's gaze flicked to Josh's pocket, where the crumpled note lay.

"Maybe that's why."

Chase's words echoed in Josh's mind: I like you anyway. Even if pheromones are involved, my feelings are real.

Josh narrowed his eyes. "Do you think only Beta love is real?"

"No."

Dane exhaled a slow stream of smoke, his voice eerily calm. "Love itself is a lie."

"…"

"There's no such thing in this world."

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It was earlier than expected to return to the set. Josh stopped the car at the designated location and headed for the lodging. As he walked, he noticed that few people were around. In the temporary quarters and around the trailer, he glanced at his watch, taking in the bustling atmosphere.

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Is he still filming?

Josh was walking absentmindedly when he noticed a gathering in the distance. The tranquil atmosphere that surrounded him seemed to signal that filming was in full swing. He tried to slip past quietly so as not to disturb the set, but something about the scene felt off. Tilting his head in curiosity, he ran into Mark, who had just walked by.

"Oh, you're back? What did the doctor say?"

"I didn't talk much with him, but I'm fine…" Josh answered briefly, turning his attention to the crowd.

"Hasn't the filming ended yet?"

"No, today's shoot is taking longer than usual, isn't it?"

Josh nodded, still puzzled. "What kind of scene is it? The atmosphere feels a little…"

There was an air of excitement, but it was difficult to put into words. Mark let out an odd chuckle at Josh's curiosity.

"Just go and see for yourself. Today's filming… it's something. You'll understand when you see it. Brings back old memories."

His smile was unsettling, making Josh pause. What kind of scene was it? A kissing scene? A bed scene?

If that were the case, Chase's reaction this morning would make sense. Maybe he had been embarrassed or just didn't want Josh to see it.

But Chase wouldn't film such a scene… would he?

Josh recalled that Chase had never undressed in a movie before. Could this be his first time? At most, he had done mild romantic scenes, just slightly beyond a kiss.

His thoughts raced, and he frowned. What had convinced Chase to do this?

Any speculation was immediately countered by doubt. The only way to know the truth was to see for himself. Feeling a mix of curiosity and anxiety, Josh headed toward the set.

The closer he got, the more palpable the atmosphere became. The crowd was holding their breath, the tension thick with anticipation. Josh slowed his steps, puzzled. Standing behind the others, he looked toward the actors in the middle of filming.

…

Huh?

He tilted his head. The actors were exactly as he knew them. The woman at the tea table was Naomi, speaking about her suffering to someone. The man listening intently was the hero of the film, while another woman with him played a significant supporting role.

The supporting actress, Becky, was fully immersed in her role. She often addressed Chase as 'Doctor Flame,' though she was frequently ignored. Even now, she remained true to the script, leaning against the lead actor and glancing toward Naomi.

But Chase was nowhere to be seen.

How was that possible? Josh scanned the area. There was no way that guy wouldn't stand out.

Ah.

A faint scent of pheromones reached him—Chase's scent. Even amidst so many people, Josh could still pick it up.

Probably because of the mark.

Feeling a pang of bitterness, he casually ran a hand through his hair.

I can smell him, but where is he?

Just as he turned his head in frustration, Naomi rose from her seat. The woman who had been listening to her sorrow followed her gaze. And then, Josh finally saw Chase.

He was wearing a long blonde wig. His makeup was minimal—just red lipstick, a soft blush, and light eye makeup. He hadn't even used false eyelashes; his naturally thick lashes were striking enough. Combined with his delicate nose, slightly parted lips, and long neck, the effect was stunning. Even in Hollywood, where beauty was abundant, such captivating elegance was rare. The entire set seemed to hold its breath.

Chase looked at Naomi, and someone nearby sighed. Another person whispered softly.

"Why did they make Miller dress as a woman? I can't even focus on Naomi. It's distracting."

"It's in the original script. The author insisted this scene be preserved in the contract."

"It's an essential moment. A key narrative twist…"

Ignoring the hushed discussions, Josh stared at Chase, dumbfounded.

Just then, Chase reached into his handbag and pulled out a cigarette. Biting down on the white cigarette between his red lips, he looked decadently alluring.

The problem was—he wasn't a woman.

He was Chase Miller.

The illusion was complete. Chase flicked open a lighter, preparing to light the cigarette. At that exact moment, he locked eyes with Josh through the crowd.

Chase's lips parted, and the cigarette slipped from his fingers to the floor. But it didn't end there. His eyes widened in shock, only for him to quickly return to character.

The director's angry voice broke the silence.

"Cut!"

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"Why are you here already?"

Leaving the director's angry voice behind, Chase hurriedly dragged Josh to a secluded spot. Facing each other, Chase asked urgently, still in full makeup. Even though he was almost four inches taller, the low heels he wore elevated his gaze even further. Josh found himself in the unusual position of looking up at him.

"The shoot ended sooner than I thought."

"Damn it! You said today was your day off. Why did you come to the set?"

Chase cursed and smacked the nearby wall. Despite his irritation, Josh found himself momentarily captivated by Chase's face. Mark's words suddenly echoed in his mind:

I can have some thoughts of the past.

He was right. At that moment, a long-forgotten jingle surfaced in Josh's memory. Smirking, he looked at Chase and began to sing softly.

"🎶 Sweet and sweet, my friend's chocolate bar… 🎶"

"Oh, stop it!"

Chase let out a strangled cry and hastily clapped a hand over Josh's mouth. Josh chuckled at his panicked reaction. When Chase exhaled sharply, Josh took the opportunity to flick his tongue across Chase's palm, causing him to recoil in horror.

"Don't do that!"

Watching Chase's face flush bright red, Josh suddenly understood why Grayson always tried to tease him. There was a rare satisfaction in seeing Chase flustered like this. But, unlike Grayson, Josh had no intention of pushing too far.

"I really liked that commercial."

"Don't even mention it."

"I thought you were really a woman."

"Stop it!"

"You were my first love."

Chase froze mid-protest.

"…What?"

Josh, not realizing the weight of what he had just admitted, continued nonchalantly.

"You were adorable. I still remember the jingle. Sweet and sweet…"

"So." Chase cut him off, his tone unreadable. "What did you do with that first love?"

"What did I do? I never met her. Then I found out he was actually a guy, and I was disappointed…"

Josh trailed off, suddenly aware of Chase's intense gaze.

"Did you sing that song while watching the commercial?" Chase mused, pretending to recall. "That ad aired right around when you hit puberty."

Josh stiffened. "No, I was younger than that—"

"Oh? About the time you had your first wet dream?"

Josh stared at him in disbelief. "What?"

Chase smirked, eyes gleaming mischievously. "Nocturnal emissions. Did you soak your sheets while thinking about me?"

"I—what? No! No!"

"Come on. How was I in your dreams? Did I kiss you?" Chase leaned in, his voice dropping to a husky whisper. "Or did we go even further?"

"I was a kid! You were even younger than that! Don't ruin my first love!"

"Then." Chase's lips curled into a devilish grin. "Can I ruin it now?"

Josh barely had time to process before Chase closed the gap between them. The intoxicating scent of his pheromones clouded Josh's senses, making his pulse race.

"…!"

As their breaths mingled, Josh instinctively swallowed. Chase's tongue brushed against his lips before slipping inside, teasing and exploring. The warmth of the kiss sent a shiver down Josh's spine. His arms wrapped around Chase's waist as their bodies pressed together.

Their kiss deepened, breaths growing ragged. Josh's hands drifted lower, fingers grazing Chase's hips before palming his backside.

Between kisses, he murmured, "What are you wearing under this? Women's panties?"

Chase's half-lidded eyes darkened with amusement. "What do you think?"

Josh exhaled shakily, struggling for control. Chase, sensing his wavering restraint, smirked and bit Josh's lower lip before releasing it.

"Find out for yourself."

"Ha."

Josh let out a breathless chuckle, overwhelmed. His fingers traced the hem of Chase's dress, slowly gathering the fabric upward. The skirt was long—too long—but Josh was determined. As his fingers slid beneath the layers, Chase's blush deepened.

Just as Josh was about to uncover the mystery—

"Mr. Miller! Mr. Miller! Where are you? The director is looking for you!"

"Fuck!"

Josh swore under his breath. Chase turned toward the voice with a resigned expression, then cast a playful glance back at Josh.

Josh, still gripping the fabric, sighed heavily and let go. Chase smoothed out his dress, seemingly unaffected. Then, before walking away, he leaned in close.

"Will you wear them tonight?" Josh asked, eyes flickering toward the hidden secret beneath the skirt.

Chase's lips curled. "You'll have to wait and see."

Josh exhaled, watching him go. But just as Chase took a few steps, he suddenly turned back, mischief twinkling in his eyes.

"What if I'm not wearing anything at all?"

Josh froze. His mind blanked. Chase chuckled at his expression, then disappeared toward the set. The assistant's voice faded into the distance.

Left alone, Josh stood there, stunned. His body ached with unresolved tension. He clenched his fists, his breath unsteady.

"Damn it."

With a determined look, he made a silent vow—not to let Chase slip away tonight.

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"Oh."

As he was about to leave, Josh unexpectedly ran into Seth, who had just walked over. Seth paused for a moment upon seeing him, then quickly approached.

"Have you been to the hospital?"

After giving a similar response to what he had told Mark, Josh walked alongside Seth. A crowd had gathered in one spot, signaling that filming had resumed. Seth glanced at Josh before speaking again.

"It's upsetting, really."

"Mark said it reminded him of when he was young."

Josh feigned indifference, but Seth tilted his head, considering it before nodding in agreement.

"Yeah, I get that. I remember that song too."

Clearing his throat, Seth hummed the familiar tune.

🎶 "Sweet and sweet, my friend's chocolate bar…" 🎶

Mid-song, he stopped and frowned.

"Why is he acting like that?"

Josh already knew the answer—he could feel his own face burning hot.

"No, it's just… It was my first love."

Seth gave him a knowing look as they continued walking.

"Well, you're not the only one."

Josh said nothing, but he understood the bittersweet weight in Seth's words. Instead, he patted Seth on the shoulder in silent camaraderie before they moved on together.

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The moment the director called "Cut!" Chase rose swiftly from his chair. Leaving his designated mark, he strode toward the waiting makeup team. It was time to remove the remnants of the character—erased makeup, a matted wig, the lingering persona he had worn for the scene.

"Sit here, Mr. Miller."

As soon as Laura directed him to a chair, the team rushed in, hands adjusting, fixing, wiping, and smoothing. This was one of Chase's least favorite moments—the stripping away of a role, the transition from one version of himself to another.

Too many things irritated him these days, even in his own thoughts. But for once, he had found something he liked. Something that made him want to stay in this moment a little longer.

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If it had been up to him, he would have stretched out the filming, made it last. But now that it was over, all he could think about was getting out of here.

His eyes scanned the set. Josh was nowhere in sight.

Chase had lost track of him after their kiss. Part of him was relieved—he didn't have to face him again so soon—but another part felt oddly disappointed. Throughout the entire shoot, he'd been aware of Josh's gaze, watching, following, focused solely on him. It had fueled him, pushing him to give his best performance.

Maybe he's waiting in the trailer.

The thought alone sent a warm heat pooling in his stomach. Chase cleared his throat and forced himself to focus.

"Do you need anything?"

Laura had noticed his distraction and quickly approached. Chase lowered his head, letting his wig cover his expression as he muttered,

"Water."

She handed him a bottle immediately. He took it, downing more than half in one go before passing it back.

It was then that something caught his eye.

Standing in front of him, one of the stylists was adjusting his wig, her short shirt riding up slightly to reveal a slim stretch of her abdomen. It wasn't her figure that held his attention, but the scar that ran across her skin—a single, pale line.

Noticing his stare, the stylist hesitated, worried she had done something to annoy him.

"Is something wrong?" she asked cautiously.

Chase ignored her question and, instead, asked his own.

"What happened?"

She followed his gaze, belatedly realizing he was looking at her stomach.

"Oh. This?" She hesitated before answering. "It's a C-section scar. The second one was from surgery."

Chase's expression shifted, his features tightening as something clicked into place.

She looked at him, puzzled by the way he seemed utterly transfixed.

It was unmistakable.

The scar—its placement, the way it had healed—it looked exactly like the one he had seen before.

The scar on Josh's stomach.

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By the time he was certain filming had wrapped, Josh left the dormitory. Until tomorrow morning, he was assigned to keep watch over Chase's trailer. There was nothing to worry about—he had even taken the medicine he bought at the store Dane had recommended.

Oops, I think I'm getting too excited.

Heading toward Chase's trailer, he felt a mix of nervous anticipation and embarrassment. The thought of being alone with Chase, doing things like that with him, made his heart race. To calm himself, he stretched his arms overhead, inhaling deeply. The crisp night air filled his lungs.

"Woo."

He exhaled, rolling his neck as he paced in place. The time to switch shifts was approaching. As expected, people were beginning to scatter, wrapping up their work. Whenever he passed a familiar face, he gave a brief nod or a quick greeting before continuing.

Gradually, the crowd thinned out. The quiet rustling of trees replaced the distant hum of conversation. Soon, Chase's trailer would be in sight.

Chase is waiting for me.

His thoughts were thick with nervous excitement when he suddenly sensed someone watching him. Josh instinctively turned—and immediately relaxed.

"Isaac."

"Josh."

Neither of them offered a real greeting, just a brief exchange of glances. An awkward silence stretched between them.

Their last encounter was something neither of them wanted to remember. Josh had done his best to avoid Isaac, but since they worked on the same team, it was inevitable that they would cross paths eventually. Resigned to the moment, Josh broke the silence.

"I'm here for the shift change. Were you in charge today?"

Isaac gave a small nod. That should have been the end of it. Josh had planned to acknowledge him, exchange a few words, and leave. But Isaac, to his frustration, didn't take the hint.

"I mean, I like you."

Josh froze.

He hadn't expected the conversation to take this turn—at least not so bluntly. He turned back toward Isaac, who was staring at him with the most serious expression Josh had ever seen on him.

"I've liked you for a long time," Isaac admitted. "I didn't want anyone to notice, but… I planned to tell you when the time was right. I didn't know Seth would find out first."

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He bit his lip, as if regretting how things had unfolded. Josh could understand—anyone would be frustrated to have their long-awaited confession stolen from them.

But the time was never going to be right, Josh thought.

"The time doesn't come, Isaac," he said firmly.

Isaac's face paled, but Josh had no intention of giving him false hope.

"You know I have Peter," he continued. "And I've never thought of you that way."

Isaac inhaled sharply, then scoffed.

"Yeah, because I'm an Alpha and you're a Beta. If it's about not being able to have kids, I could mutate you. But even if you wanted to stay a Beta, that'd be fine. We could still raise a—"

"Peter has other parents," Josh interrupted.

He quickly corrected himself.

"I mean, Peter's mother."

Isaac's gaze darkened. "It's been a long time since you've seen her."

"We keep in touch. And we'll be back together." Josh's voice left no room for argument.

"I don't plan on being with anyone else but her. So give up."

For some reason, Chase's face flashed in his mind at that moment, and Josh swallowed hard. He quickly pushed the thought away.

Isaac exhaled slowly, watching him.

"Why should I give up just because you don't accept me?"

Josh blinked, caught off guard. Isaac kept going.

"My feelings are my own. I haven't done anything wrong just by liking you. If Seth hadn't told you, or if I hadn't confessed, you never would've known."

That was true. But it didn't change anything.

"Now that I do know, you're clinging to me," Josh pointed out.

"…"

"I already told you—I have no intention of being with anyone but Peter's mother."

Isaac clenched his fists. "That doesn't mean I have to give up."

"Isaac—"

"You don't have to worry. I won't chase after you or try anything desperate. Just… don't ignore my feelings."

His voice was low, but the stubbornness in it was undeniable. Josh sighed.

"I'm telling you not to waste your time."

"And I'm telling you it's my time to waste."

There was nothing more to say. No argument would change Isaac's mind. Josh raised his hands in surrender and turned on his heel.

Behind him, Isaac's voice rang out one last time.

"I've thought about this over and over. This is the conclusion I came to. I won't give up!"

Josh didn't turn back.

As he approached Chase's trailer, he noticed something unusual.

The door was slightly open.

Someone was inside.

Josh's entire body tensed.

He moved cautiously, silencing his footsteps as he stepped inside, closing the door behind him. His senses sharpened. Could someone be hiding?

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Given the blackmail and threats Chase had received recently, he couldn't afford to take any risks.

"…"

Holding his breath, Josh carefully checked each space, his tension rising with every step. Finally, only one room remained: the bedroom.

He took a quiet, steadying breath before pushing the door open.

The bed was empty.

But just as he turned to check the rest of the room, an arm suddenly wrapped around his waist from behind.

Josh reacted instantly. His body tensed, his elbow instinctively rising for a strike—but just before he landed the hit, he caught sight of the culprit.

"Chase! Damn it!"

Relief and frustration hit him at once. He swore under his breath.

"Don't mess around like that—do you wanna die? If I had a gun, I swear—"

"I'm sorry," Chase murmured.

But he didn't sound sorry at all. Before Josh could snap at him again, Chase leaned in and pressed their lips together.

Josh stiffened, then exhaled shakily as Chase deepened the kiss, his mouth coaxing, teasing, claiming.

Josh barely managed to break away, breathless.

"Be careful next time…!"

Chase just smiled faintly before kissing him again.

This time, Josh gave in willingly, pressing close, their lips moving together. After a moment, he broke the kiss just enough to murmur against Chase's mouth—

"Did you take everything off?"

"…"

Feeling a little disappointed, Josh ran his fingers down Chase's slick chest and whispered, "So, what about your underwear?"

"Hmm?" Chase smirked, deliberately avoiding the question as he pressed his lips to Josh's throat, warm breath ghosting over sensitive skin. Then, as if deciding something, he shifted gears. "Shall we wash together?"

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Josh hesitated for a moment, then nodded.

✤✤✤✤✤✤

"Ah… ha… ah…"

Steam curled around them as hot water cascaded down their bodies. Josh pressed his hands against the tiled wall, his breath hitching as Chase's lips trailed along his neck, leaving a trail of warmth in their wake. Strong hands roamed over his slick skin, teasing, kneading, and pressing him closer. Chase's fingers moved with slow, deliberate strokes, stretching him, coaxing him open, yet never quite reaching where Josh craved him most.

A frustrated whimper escaped Josh's lips, his body trembling with urgency. Chase's mouth found his shoulder, biting down gently before whispering against his skin.

"Joshua… do you want me to put it in?"

Josh nodded frantically, his fingers curling against the wall.

"Quick… hurry… please… just do it!"

He spread his legs wider, pushing back against Chase in a silent plea. The teasing fingers withdrew, replaced by the slow, tantalizing press of something thicker, hotter. A sharp inhale, a shudder—his body quivered with anticipation.

"Uh…!"

Josh's moan stretched into the air as the heat of Chase's body blanketed his own. A deep, guttural groan rumbled from behind him as Chase pushed forward, his breath hot against Josh's ear.

"Joshua…"

His name rolled off Chase's tongue like a prayer, the sound alone sending a shiver down his spine. Josh braced himself, his body tightening, only to be met with slow, deliberate thrusts that sent waves of pleasure coursing through him.

The rhythm built, each motion pushing him further into the wall, into the heat, into the intoxicating sensation of being completely filled. Chase's grip on his waist tightened, fingers pressing possessively into his damp skin.

"Ahh… Chase…!"

His voice trembled, caught between pleasure and desperation. Chase responded with a deep, rolling thrust, his own breathing uneven.

"Josh…"

His name was spoken again, this time lower, rougher—laced with desire.

Josh lost himself in the moment, in the feeling of their bodies moving in perfect sync, in the raw, unfiltered intimacy of the shower's warmth surrounding them..

✤✤✤✤✤✤

"This here is a scar too."

Lying side by side on the bed, Chase reached out and traced the faint marks along Josh's side. His fingers moved slowly, his voice quiet as he spoke.

Josh barely reacted, responding in a detached tone.

"A guy who lost a match got petty and stabbed me. It was a real pain in the ass."

Chase raised an eyebrow. "Are you talking about a game?"

"Football." Josh shifted slightly, tilting his head toward Chase. "I played for a while."

A smirk tugged at his lips as he added with mock arrogance, "I was a quarterback. The year I led my team to victory, we crushed our rival school. They didn't take it too well."

"Because you were the ace?" Chase asked, watching the smug look on Josh's face.

"Of course."

Chase studied him for a moment before asking, "So why'd you quit? If you'd kept playing, you could've been a superstar by now."

Josh hesitated. The truth sat heavy in his chest, but instead, he lied.

"Because it was stupid. If I'd stuck with it, I wouldn't have met you. Isn't this better?"

He playfully patted Chase's stomach, his hand sliding lower. The moment his fingers brushed against Chase, still damp from their earlier activities, he felt the immediate reaction. Chase let out a low groan before flipping Josh beneath him.

"Was it always this obvious?"

Josh raised an eyebrow. "Do you always do this so much?"

Chase ignored the teasing remark, settling between Josh's legs.

"You know, after sleeping with you, no one ever wants to break up."

Josh chuckled at that. A sudden thought crossed his mind—one that sent a wicked grin across his face.

"Some people forget they've even had sex with me."

Chase's expression shifted to disbelief. "They slept with you but don't remember?"

Josh enjoyed the way Chase seemed genuinely offended by the idea.

"Yeah. Crazy, right?"

Chase scoffed. "That's ridiculous. They were obviously lying."

Josh smirked. "Thanks."

For a second, he almost felt guilty. Chase's reaction, the way his brows furrowed and his jaw tightened, made something twist in Josh's chest.

Idiot. I was talking about you.

Chase hesitated for a moment before asking, his voice quieter now, "Did you date that person for a long time?"

The air grew tense. Josh didn't want to go down that road. Without answering, he turned his body slightly, his lips curving into a lazy smirk.

"You know, it's kind of rude to ask about someone's past while you're in bed with them."

It had the intended effect—Chase fell silent. Josh spread his legs wider, pulling Chase back in, and just like that, the conversation was over. Chase didn't press him further, instead burying himself in Josh again, their bodies moving in perfect sync.

And yet, as pleasure overtook them, a single thought crept into Josh's mind.

How shocked would Chase be if he knew?

If he found out about the child born from a night he couldn't even remember?

Would he even care?

It didn't matter.

Because after this, their relationship would end.

Just like last time.

And if I tell him I'm leaving… will he try to stop me?

Josh let out a long, trembling moan and clenched around him.

✤✤✤✤✤✤

Chase lay in the dark, his eyes fixed on Josh's sleeping face.

Even after everything, Josh was still guarded—always ready to wake up at the slightest suspicion. Chase had noticed it before. The way Josh tensed when things got too quiet, how he always seemed prepared to run.

Chase felt something deep inside him—an ache, an attachment he wasn't sure how to name.

But mixed with that was something else. Something unsettling.

This is just an obligation for him.

The words from before echoed in his head.

I have no intention of living with anyone but her. So give up.

I mean Peter's mother.

Chase clenched his jaw. He didn't know all the details, but one thing was clear—Josh had a woman in his life.

And then there was Peter.

Who the hell was Peter?

The thought gnawed at him. What if Josh was married? What if this entire time, he had been sneaking around behind someone else's back?

Chase had only overheard bits of the conversation, only caught the name Peter and the mention of a woman. He had no proof of anything. But the uncertainty twisted his gut.

And then there was something else.

Josh was a Beta. So why did he have a scar across his stomach?

There were plenty of old wounds on his body—probably from his past, maybe from his job. But that scar… that one didn't feel the same.

It had to be a coincidence.

Even though discomfort settled in Chase's chest, he couldn't find a logical answer.

What mattered more was the existence of this woman. Whoever she was, she belonged to Josh.

And Chase couldn't ask him about her.

Because what if Josh chose her?

What if, in the end, Josh simply shrugged and walked away?

If you bring up that nonsense again, I'll beat the crap out of you and disappear.

Would I pretend not to know?

The moment Josh's words replayed in his mind, his doubt solidified into something closer to certainty.

Josh would leave.

Chase would be left behind.

Chase reached out, hesitating for a second before wrapping his arms around Josh's sleeping form. Josh instinctively shifted closer in his sleep, pressing against him.

Even if everything was a lie. Even if nothing Josh said was real.

Even if he had someone else, a child, a past Chase wasn't part of.

Even if Chase was just a temporary distraction.

If he buried the truth, if he ignored everything…

Then maybe, just maybe, Josh would stay.

Biting his lip, Chase forced himself to swallow the lump in his throat.

He tightened his hold around Josh, burying his face against him, as if that could stop the inevitable.

The night stretched on endlessly, but Chase never closed his eyes.

He didn't sleep—not until the first light of dawn crept in through the window.

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