PTK Ch 19

As soon as he entered the store, he looked around. The person he was looking for spotted Euihyun first and raised his hand.

“Over here.”

Euihyun said, “Ah,” and quickly walked towards him. Bowing his head in greeting was no different outside the office. The man, smiling brightly and taking off his sunglasses, was none other than Simon Kim.

“Have a seat.”

“Yes.”

He awkwardly sat down on the opposite seat. Simon Kim seemed more relaxed than usual. Perhaps because they had always met for business, seeing him outside of work felt strangely unfamiliar. It might also have been due to his casual attire. As Euihyun kept glancing at Simon Kim’s distinctly different appearance, a menu was suddenly handed to him.

“Take your pick. Anything on this store’s brunch menu is pretty good.”

“I’ll have the same as you, sir.”

“Will you?”

Simon Kim immediately called the server and ordered a menu consisting of pancakes, bacon, and potatoes. He also ordered coffee, detailing his preferences. When the server left, only the two of them remained at the table.

“So, what brings you….”

He had been catching up on chores at home, with his schedule only starting in the evening. Simon Kim had abruptly called, asking if they could meet briefly. This was the first time he had contacted him directly, without going through Park Hanyoung. Since his previous summons had always been strictly work-related, he naturally assumed it would be the same this time. Although it was a little strange that the meeting place was not the CEO’s office, but a cafeteria near the company.

As if to confirm his suspicions, Simon Kim shrugged.

“Do we need a reason to meet?”

He put on an exaggeratedly hurt expression.

“No, it’s not like that….”

He mumbled with a troubled expression. He was visibly flustered by the playful remark. Whenever he saw Euihyun’s innocent side, he wondered how he had managed to survive in this world. He wanted to tease him more, but he felt a subtle sense of guilt.

Simon Kim chuckled and stopped teasing him.

“I just wanted to have a meal with you, Euihyun. I occasionally have drinks with Yiljoo. All artists under exclusive contracts have the right to be treated equally, don’t they?”

He added,

“I’m also curious why Yiljoo keeps wanting to eat with you.”

At the playful remark, he lightly touched the back of his neck. It wasn’t a compliment, nor was it teasing, but he felt inexplicably embarrassed. He hadn’t had a drink or a meal with Cha Yiljoo recently. They had both been busy, and even when they managed to find time, something always came up. It felt like their timings were constantly misaligned. It had been a while since they had a proper conversation, so he didn’t know what Cha Yiljoo was thinking or what had happened to him. Even though they spent more time together while working on the same project.

Just as his thoughts were deepening, Simon Kim asked him how he was doing.

“How’s work these days? I heard Director Park is a very meticulous person.”

“It’s not just because of him, but reshoots are common. It’s actually much easier than I expected. There’s nothing particularly uncomfortable or difficult. I’m enjoying acting.”

“That’s good to hear. How does Yiljoo seem to you?”

“Yiljoo is also stable. I get the impression that he’s trying not to clash with the director… Both of them are professionals, so when it’s time to work, they focus solely on work.”

“Is it okay working with Yiljoo?”

“Yes. He leads very well. I can just focus on my role, so there’s less pressure, and I feel comfortable. I was worried because I’ve never worked with Yiljoo before, but all my worries seem to have been unfounded.”

“Did you two coordinate your answers or something?”

“…Yes?”

“Seeing you both say the same thing makes me think you have great chemistry.”

It seemed he had asked Cha Yiljoo a similar question sometime before. What would he have answered, he wondered. And how would he have evaluated his own acting? He wanted to hear the details, but he hesitated to ask directly. He simply looked at Simon Kim with anticipation.

However, Simon Kim did not mention it further. He merely expressed a concern that he had never shown before.

“Honestly, I was quite worried. You seemed discouraged after that photoshoot with Yiljoo a while back. Since this movie is a two-top, I hope both actors shine equally. You might think I’m greedy, but as a planner, I don’t like it when one side is overshadowed by the other. So, Euihyun, you also need to show us some amazing acting that can surpass Yiljoo.”

“I’ll do my best.”

Simon Kim smiled with satisfaction at the conventional answer.

Soon, the food they had ordered arrived. The warm pancakes had a pleasant vanilla scent. The crispy bacon, crispy potatoes, and fluffy scrambled eggs served alongside them all looked appetizing.

He cut a piece of pancake and put it in his mouth. Although it looked dry at first glance, it went down his throat smoothly before he could even chew it properly.

“It’s strange. I’ve eaten countless pancakes so far, but none of them can compare to the ones my mother made. Am I getting sentimental?”

Simon Kim muttered, holding a large piece of pancake on his fork. He then told a brief story about his mother. It was also a story about Cha Yiljoo’s childhood.

“That doesn’t mean my mother is a good cook. Her pancakes weren’t particularly great either. They were often clunky and too soft, almost mushy. Even with a measuring cup, she always failed to control the consistency. Every time that happened, my siblings and I would complain, but Yiljoo seemed to enjoy even that? When everyone else was making excuses to say they were full, he would be the only one diligently finishing the ruined pancakes. ‘Do you really find those delicious?’ I remember asking him once because I was so tired of watching him. Yiljoo’s answer was peculiar. I still remember it, so it must have been.”

Euihyun stared at Simon Kim. For some reason, he felt like he knew what Cha Yiljoo would have said. He vaguely felt that way.

“He said it had a warm taste.”

Simon Kim asked, “Isn’t that strange?” He also said, “Of course it’s warm, it’s freshly made,” while taking a bite of the pancake on his fork. Euihyun smiled faintly and bowed his head slightly.

‘It’s warm.’

He had once said the same thing when he ate the stew Euihyun made. Those words had shaken his heart more intensely than any compliment about the taste. As Simon Kim had said, whether it’s freshly made pancakes or stew, it’s natural for them to be warm.

“…But then, after he started living away from home, he stopped contacting Mother so often. Mother always complains to me about that. As if Yiljoo would ever listen to me. Well, he only has to endure it for a while longer. Once Yiljoo returns to his base, Mother will feel better.”

He listened silently, then raised his head and looked at Simon Kim. His eyes were filled with a mixture of deep question and bewilderment.

“Hmm? Didn’t Yiljoo tell you yet?”

“Tell me what….”

“This movie might be Yiljoo’s last project filmed in Korea. It was originally planned that he would focus on Korean activities for just one year. I think he’ll probably go back to living in the United States next year.”

He slowly nodded. It was only natural. Korea wasn’t the place that felt like home to Cha Yiljoo, nor the place that had recognized his true worth. He would have family and fans waiting for his return. In reality, the Korean stage was too small for him.

Even though he knew it perfectly well.

“Why, are you disappointed?”

“Yes?”

It seemed like his inner thoughts had been completely read. Startled, he vigorously shook his head. However, he couldn’t control his expression. Simon Kim had a look that said he knew everything.

“You look like you’re dying of disappointment.”

“No, I’m not.”

He quickly denied it, but Simon Kim didn’t seem to believe him. He seemed amused by the fact that Euihyun was still denying it. Euihyun felt his face flush.

“Really, it’s nothing like that. I just want Yiljoo to do well wherever he is.”

“Well, of course. Don’t be too sad. It’s not like he’s never coming back, you can meet when he comes and goes. Or you could go visit him in the US.”

Simon Kim continued to tease him. “Why do you keep…,” he mumbled in protest. His head drooped. He felt like his flushed face would burst if he didn’t change the subject soon.

“By any chance, do you know?”

“Yes? Know what….”

“The person Yiljoo is interested in.”

Suddenly, something inside his chest plummeted. His eyes were fixed on Simon Kim, but he couldn’t process anything. He clasped his hands tightly under the table.

He wasn’t sure what he had heard, or if he had even understood correctly. The doubt that he had misheard it made him deny reality.

“He seems to be quite troubled these days. This is the first time I’ve seen Yiljoo worried about relationship problems. He wouldn’t tell me who she is, no matter how much I asked? I thought you might know, Euihyun.”

The following explanation confirmed his suspicions.

“…I don’t know.”

“You don’t know either? He didn’t tell you anything?”

At the barrage of questions, he forced a smile and shook his head. Even if Cha Yiljoo had someone he liked, he wouldn’t confide in Euihyun. Because he was a kind person.

He had said they should go back to how they were before, but they both knew. They could never completely return to the same relationship. Saying they would pretend it never happened didn’t make it truly disappear. After that day, the boundary between what they could and couldn’t do had only become clearer.

Even so, he had no idea. That Cha Yiljoo had someone in his heart. No, he hadn’t even considered it. Blinded by his own feelings, he had failed to notice that Cha Yiljoo was looking elsewhere. Even though Cha Yiljoo could also love someone, just like anyone else.

What kind of person was she?

“I don’t know much, but I’m sure she’s an amazing person. Judging from the people Yiljoo has dated so far, his standards are incredibly high. But this time seems different. He’s constantly anxious and seriously worried about the relationship falling apart? I wonder if he’s going to suddenly announce marriage or something.”

Simon Kim laughed heartily. His face showed a mixture of pleasant curiosity and subtle expectation. Euihyun had no choice but to smile along.

He felt like the precarious balance he had maintained would crumble if he spoke rashly. He couldn’t show any agitation. He would reveal the feelings he had been hiding all this time. The feelings he had promised himself he would give up on, the feelings he had suppressed, but never truly let go of, even for a moment. Those feelings began to stir slowly and heavily in the depths of his heart.

If he couldn’t be the object of Cha Yiljoo’s affection, it was a name he had to give up on. A place where he would have to congratulate him on finding someone else, with a smile. He had resolved to do so, but the unexpected news pierced his heart.

Unaware of his inner turmoil, Simon Kim casually added,

“I hope it’s someone like you, Euihyun. Someone Yiljoo can rely on without reservation.”

“I don’t know her well, but I’m sure the person Yiljoo has in mind is much better than me.”

At his confident reply, Simon Kim made a pitying expression. He clicked his tongue disapprovingly.

“You think too highly of him, Euihyun.”

“Because he’s a good person.”

“Well, I think you’re the one who makes Yiljoo seem that way. You can’t define a person’s character with just one word. Depending on who the other person is, they can become a saint or a villain. If you perceive Yiljoo as a good person, it means that he at least acted that way towards you.”

Simon Kim chuckled. Then he added a word of advice.

“That’s why I keep relying on you, Euihyun. Yiljoo may seem fine now, but he might gradually start struggling. If he seems anxious or you sense something strange, feel free to contact me anytime.”

Unlike his previous playful banter, his tone was quite serious. Euihyun didn’t know what Simon Kim’s intentions were, or what he was worried about. He just didn’t feel like refusing, since it was for Cha Yiljoo, a request made out of concern for him.

“I understand.”

Final preparations for filming were underway at the mansion, the main filming location. Staff members were constantly moving inside and out, and the sound of walkie-talkies calling for someone could be heard everywhere. Equipment and props were scattered haphazardly all over the place.

He went inside, careful not to disturb anyone. A grand piano was placed where the table had been set for the production ritual. It boasted an imposing size, but thanks to the high ceiling that extended to the third floor, it didn’t feel cramped.

A few empty rooms were used as waiting rooms for the actors. He quickly finished checking his costume and returned to the living room to confirm the blocking. He was carefully reviewing the situation, lines, and stage directions in the script when suddenly, there was a commotion outside. Soon after, he heard a familiar voice greeting the staff. His shoulders stiffened involuntarily in response.

A moment later, Cha Yiljoo appeared through the wide-open door. He was holding a tablet containing the screenplay file. It seemed he had been reading the script while moving around as well. Cha Yiljoo, who had been greeting each staff member as he passed by, quickly noticed Euihyun standing across from him. As their eyes met, Euihyun bowed first. He was worried that Cha Yiljoo might approach and talk to him, and that he might be unnecessarily agitated because of the conversation he had with Simon Kim in the morning.

However, Cha Yiljoo didn’t come closer, nor did he speak to him separately. He simply stood at the door, gave a slight smile in response to Euihyun’s greeting, and then went straight into the waiting room.

Delusion.

Why did he keep taking his kindness for granted? A self-deprecating smile spread across his lips. He shook his head to clear his distracting thoughts. He wanted to focus solely on acting during the filming. He didn’t want his emotions, which were beyond his conscious control, to ruin his work.

But God constantly tested frail humans. It seemed he wouldn’t be able to avoid contact with Cha Yiljoo in today’s filming.

‘Yoohan’ takes ‘Myeongshin’ home and washes him. When the housekeeper couldn’t handle the agitated ‘Myeongshin’, ‘Yoohan’, conscious of the surrounding eyes, volunteered to do it himself. ‘Yoohan’ washes ‘Myeongshin’s face with gentle touches that even ‘Myeongshin’ would perceive as infinitely kind. Only the bathroom mirror reflects ‘Yoohan’s true feelings.

It was purely for the sake of acting. Even so, he wasn’t confident he could ignore Cha Yiljoo’s touch. There had been little physical contact with Cha Yiljoo so far. At most, it had been gently supporting his back or holding his wrist. This time, he had to entrust his entire face to him. It wasn’t even a deeply affectionate scene, yet he felt several times more nervous than when they filmed the kiss scene a while ago.

Finally, Director Park entered the mansion. Euihyun and the staff all bowed towards him. He glanced over the arrangement of the props, including the piano, and then approached Euihyun.

“Euihyun, I’m changing the entire scene we’re filming today.”

“Yes? How….”

“Since your mental age in the play is at a preschool level, I think the scene would be more impactful if you act like a child of that age while being washed. I’ll change it from washing your face to taking a bath, so keep that in mind. If it’s too burdensome, I’ll send the staff out and film it myself. I’m sorry to ask you to act nude so suddenly, but please do it that way.”

It was like a bolt from the blue. There seemed to be no room for compromise. Oh. A groan of despair escaped from deep within him.

He had never refused a request on set before. He silently complied, no matter how unreasonable it was. He believed that filming wasn’t a solo act, but a process of collaboration between all the actors and staff. It was fine with him if his sacrifice led to a better production. He didn’t want to render the efforts of others meaningless because of his own stubbornness or pride.

But he found it hard to accept this request. He had to act naked in front of Cha Yiljoo, of all people. He wasn’t confident. The problem wasn’t taking his clothes off, but being overly conscious of Cha Yiljoo. His mind would be completely preoccupied with things outside of acting.

“How can you tell us about such an important matter right before filming?”

Cha Yiljoo suddenly raised an objection. It seemed like he had overheard Director Park’s words while coming out after finishing his preparations.

“Do you think being naked is only burdensome for female actors?”

“Of course it requires resolve, regardless of gender. But I believe Euihyun is capable of making that kind of sacrifice.”

Director Park didn’t back down either. The atmosphere instantly turned frigid. The staff members around them began to pay attention to the unusual tension.

It seemed like everyone would notice the discord between father and son. Euihyun felt heavy-hearted because it seemed like the unnecessary confrontation had arisen because of him. He tried to mediate the situation somehow, but Cha Yiljoo subtly blocked his way.

“That’s only valid when there’s been sufficient discussion. If the director arbitrarily changes the scenario and informs the actor, does the actor have to accept it unconditionally?”

He hurriedly tugged on Cha Yiljoo’s sleeve. Cha Yiljoo, who had been glaring at Director Park, finally turned to Euihyun. He shook his head, telling him to stop. Even though Cha Yiljoo’s protest was justified, it could be perceived negatively by others. Especially in a world where the director’s authority was absolute. Continuing would only drive Cha Yiljoo further into an emotional corner.

“I’m fine with it.”

He stepped forward and prevented further argument. Cha Yiljoo frowned with a displeased expression. The staff members kept rolling their eyes, gauging the reactions of both sides. An uncomfortable air filled the set. The ensuing silence amplified the awkwardness.

It was Director Park who broke the ambiguous silence.

“Directing team only to the second floor, everyone else wait here. Makeup team, help with the preparations.”

He gave a brief instruction and headed to the second floor where the bathroom was located. The remaining assistant director conveyed the details in a loud voice.

“Scene 26 will proceed according to the revised scenario! We’ll start the camera test as soon as we’re ready. Directing team, makeup team, please stand by!”

Was it an illusion? Cha Yiljoo’s sleeve, which had been held by Euihyun, slipped out of his grasp with a forceful tug. Cha Yiljoo went upstairs without a word. He blankly stared at Cha Yiljoo walking away and then looked down at his empty hand in a daze. Was he angry? Perhaps. He had defended him, but he made a decision that went against it. His hand trembled slightly as he clenched it into a fist.

“Oppa, wait a minute.”

Jung Eijin, who had been observing the situation, subtly pulled Euihyun aside. After asking the assistant director for permission, they went back into the waiting room. Jung Eijin crossed her arms with her lips tightly pursed. Her expression looked quite serious.

“Why?”

“Take it off.”

“What?”

“Take it off so I can check for blemishes. What if you have back acne? How are you going to handle the fervent hearts of women? ‘Back beauty Jung Euihyun’ will be out that day.”

She then forcibly pulled on Euihyun’s t-shirt. He reluctantly took off his top. His unblemished body was revealed. Jung Eijin narrowed her eyes and examined every inch of Euihyun’s body. Park Hanyoung, who had been watching silently, asked with concern,

“Are you really okay with this? You can refuse if it’s too much.”

“No. I’m fine. I also think the revised scene will be more convincing.”

He forced a smile. In fact, if it weren’t for Cha Yiljoo, he wouldn’t have even considered the request. He was easily embarrassed, but in front of the camera, he became unusually bold. As Director Park had said, there was nothing he couldn’t do for a better production. Park Hanyoung lowered her eyebrows and said, “That’s good then.” But she still couldn’t shake off her worries.

“Hmm. Your back is a work of art, as expected.”

Jung Eijin, having finished her long examination, slapped his back. Even that light contact left a faint handprint. Jung Eijin cried out, “Oh!” and quickly rubbed Euihyun’s skin. She then applied her body balm lightly along his spine, shoulder blades, shoulders, elbows, and collarbones. By the time she closed the lid, her face was filled with a satisfied smile.

Around that time, there was a knock on the door. After permission was granted, the male staff members from the makeup team entered. They seemed to be there for the so-called “construction”.

They moved busily, as if it were a familiar task. They opened the toolbox and efficiently took out the necessary materials. Park Hanyoung, after looking around, thoughtfully brought a blanket and covered Euihyun around his waist. Euihyun, who was about to unbuckle his pants, turned to look at Jung Eijin, who was standing blankly. When their eyes met, she asked innocently, “Why?” He smiled awkwardly, and a member of the makeup team advised her,

“It would be better if you waited outside.”

“Huh? Me? Why?”

Jung Eijin looked puzzled. The four men in the waiting room didn’t respond. They simply looked at her in unison. Jung Eijin, rolling her eyes, soon came to a realization.

“Ah, ah, ah…!”

Completely red-faced, she dashed out. Right before she slammed the door shut, she asked Park Hanyoung to check if there were any blemishes down below as well. He thought he should acknowledge her professionalism, even though she was young.

Only after it was quiet outside did he take off his pants. His body stiffened involuntarily as he pulled down his underwear as well. It wasn’t that he had never exposed his body before. It was just that this was his first time acting completely nude. Even though he had prepared himself for the possibility, he couldn’t help but feel nervous when it actually happened.

The meticulous “construction” began immediately. “Construction” was the process of covering sensitive areas such as genitals or tattoos when an actor had to expose their body. In the case of men, it usually involved covering the genitals with a net and applying flesh-colored tape around it. The tape was sticky only at the edges and had a gauze-like texture elsewhere, making it easy to apply and remove.

Once the work was finished, a staff member draped a robe over him. Even though he was going to take it off soon, he carefully fastened the lapels and tied the waistband tightly.

After completing all the preparations, he went up to the second floor. As promised, Director Park was preparing to film himself. Three or four staff members from the directing team were checking the camera with him and discussing the composition. Cha Yiljoo was nowhere to be seen.

The assistant director approached and handed him the revised script.

“Here’s the revised version. There’s nothing to worry about with the lines, just pay attention to the stage directions. This way.”

“Yes.”

He followed the assistant director while reviewing the revised parts. As he read the stage directions without suspicion, his vision went dark.

Scene#26. Homyeong’s House. Day.

‘Yoohan’ bathes ‘Myeongshin’. ‘Myeongshin’ is busy trying to escape, showing wariness. A water fight ensues.

It was a perfectly natural and appropriate direction in terms of the story. If his counterpart wasn’t Cha Yiljoo, he wouldn’t have hesitated at all. That single name, Cha Yiljoo, made everything daunting. It’s just acting. It’s only acting. Even though he tried to reassure himself, his heightened senses didn’t dull.

In the bathroom, which he entered following the assistant director, there was a portable bathtub. A large window behind it let in plenty of sunlight. It seemed like separate lighting wouldn’t be necessary. The water already drawn in the bathtub rippled. He dipped his hand in. It was lukewarm, neither hot nor cold.

“Please sit here.”

The assistant director set the direction. He nodded obediently. He took off his robe, handed it to the assistant director, and got into the bathtub. Then, as he had done before, he sat with his knees pulled up to his chest.

The assistant director said, “Please wait a moment,” and quietly closed the door behind him. He could hear murmuring voices from outside. Director Park’s instruction to wait until called came, and the door opened again. The outside air drifted in.

“Director, the posture….”

He turned around to ask for advice and froze. He had naturally assumed it would be Director Park, but Cha Yiljoo was standing there.

As their eyes met, he became unbearably awkward. He quickly turned his head away. Even after that, the door remained open for a long time, not closing.

“What are you doing? Why aren’t you coming in?”

Not even when Director Park scolded Cha Yiljoo, who was standing frozen, did he move.

Cha Yiljoo reluctantly approached the bathtub. Even without looking, he could tell by the unique scent and faint smell of cigarettes that emanated from him. Extreme tension made his jaw tighten. His shoulders were stiff and uncomfortable.

There was a chair in front of the bathtub. It was Cha Yiljoo’s seat. Cha Yiljoo sat there and rolled up his shirt sleeves to his elbows. He placed his hands neatly on his thighs. Only his gaze, the only thing granted freedom, calmly scanned Euihyun’s back.

Perhaps because he was hunched over, his shoulder blades were particularly prominent. As he had noticed before, they had a strangely captivating shape. Now they were glistening with moisture.

He unknowingly continued these observations before coming to his senses. By the time he consciously averted his gaze, Director Park, having finished setting up, called for standby.

“Okay, Scene Number 26, Take One. Ready.”

Simultaneously with the action call, he neatly folded the towel and dipped it in the water. Droplets falling from the wet towel caused small ripples in the bathtub. Euihyun’s shoulders seemed to shrink further. He gazed down at him and carefully wiped his shoulders. He couldn’t tell if the trembling of Euihyun’s body was due to the water temperature or some other reason.

He slowly traced the nape of his neck, his straight shoulders, and the curve of his spine. His entire back was quickly wet and gleaming. He briefly put down the soggy towel. Then, scooping up water with his hands, he poured it little by little over Euihyun. Clear water droplets trickled down his spine. Cha Yiljoo’s gaze, following their movement, was somehow persistent.

Euihyun huddled further. As he did so, the contours of his body became more defined. The shoulder blades, which had captivated his attention, became even sharper. Cha Yiljoo’s hand, which had been carefully observing him, slowed considerably. It was difficult to tear his gaze away, fixated as it was.

“…….”

Unconsciously, he reached out towards Euihyun’s shoulder blade. It was an action he hadn’t even realized he was doing. Soon, his fingertips touched the protruding skin. Euihyun, who had been tense as if walking on thin ice, flinched at the unexpected contact. He turned to look at Cha Yiljoo with a dazed expression. Cha Yiljoo was equally startled.

“Cut!”

Filming stopped immediately. Euihyun flinched again at the sharp cut signal that pierced his ears. Bewilderment was evident in his eyes as he looked at Director Park in dismay. Director Park frowned with displeasure.

“Jung Euihyun. You can’t do that. Didn’t you check the revised script?”

“Ah….”

Euihyun’s face flushed crimson. He had been overly conscious of Cha Yiljoo’s every move when he should have been completely focused on his role. He felt suffocated by the overwhelming embarrassment. He lowered his head. He didn’t have the courage to face Cha Yiljoo and see his expression.

He apologized in a small voice.

“I’m sorry. I’ll do it again.”

“Act like you’re scared. Like an untamed beast. Got it?”

Director Park, having reiterated his point, said, “Again,” and immediately resumed filming.

“Scene Number 26, Take Two. Ready, go!”

As soon as the cue sign dropped, Cha Yiljoo rubbed Euihyun’s shoulder with his bare hand. Due to the water, the friction was significantly reduced, and his wet hand slipped. The temperature of his fingertips, the sensation of his skin in full contact, the almost ticklishly careful touch, all felt distinct. When Cha Yiljoo’s gentle touch grazed the back of his neck, goosebumps erupted all over his body. He flinched and raised his elbows.

“I don’t like it. Don’t do that!”

He rejected the bothersome touch in a tone befitting ‘Myeongshin’. He splashed with both arms, sending water droplets flying everywhere. Cha Yiljoo turned his head to avoid the spray and then grabbed Euihyun’s arm firmly. His contorted face now resembled ‘Yoohan’.

“Don’t splash. You’ll get everything wet.”

“I don’t want to! I don’t want to! Stop it!”

‘Myeongshin’ seemed startled by the force restraining him and struggled more violently. The water in the bathtub splashed and overflowed. ‘Yoohan’s shirt quickly became soaked. His hair, absorbing the moisture, darkened.

‘Yoohan’ didn’t treat ‘Myeongshin’ like a child but suppressed him with force. The more he did so, the more ‘Myeongshin’ struggled to escape the suffocating restraint. Every time he tried to stand up using the bottom of the bathtub, his feet slipped repeatedly. He growled and tried to get out, resembling a large dog.

“Listen to me!”

“Ahh, I won’t! I won’t do it! You can’t do this!”

Finally, ‘Yoohan’ half-rose and pushed ‘Myeongshin’ down. However, ‘Myeongshin’ only resisted more stubbornly, without tiring. He pushed ‘Yoohan’, who kept holding onto him, and stood up. At that moment, his feet slipped again, and his body lurched forward. It was a completely unintended situation.

“……!”

He tumbled down with a crash. He felt his knees hit the edge of the bathtub for a moment. He was about to fall headfirst. He squeezed his eyes shut at the stark premonition.

At that moment, his falling body was abruptly caught. When he opened his eyes, he was practically in Cha Yiljoo’s embrace. His hands, driven by survival instinct, had grabbed Cha Yiljoo’s shirt.

Their eyes met in midair. It was only after a while that he realized Cha Yiljoo’s arms were wrapped around his bare back and waist. The sensation of his skin being pressed by his tense fingertips was vivid. He was startled and hurriedly pulled away.

“Cut! Cut! What are you doing reacting like that!”

Director Park, unable to watch any longer, yelled. Only then did he remember that they were filming.

“I’m sorry.”

He felt ashamed. He truly had no excuse for such a lack of concentration. Euihyun’s face darkened due to the repeated mistakes. Cha Yiljoo, who had been watching him from the side, intervened.

“Due to the sudden change in the script, neither Euihyun nor I had a chance to practice the movements. Why don’t you take a smoke break? We’ll coordinate before that.”

His tone was quite different from when he had protested the unfair script revision earlier. Director Park didn’t reject Cha Yiljoo’s suggestion. He grabbed his cigarettes with an annoyed gesture and went out.

The open door quickly closed again. Cha Yiljoo, who had been looking towards the door, turned his head and said, “Euihyun,”

“Are there any sensitive areas?”

“…Yes?”

He asked back stupidly. He wondered if it was a question to be asked with such a calm expression. Cha Yiljoo added, as if he hadn’t misheard,

“You seem to react sensitively even to a light touch.”

“Ah, no, it’s not that….”

He was greatly embarrassed, as if he had suffered some great humiliation. His face turned bright red. He quickly turned his head away, but it didn’t help much. Not only his face but also his neck, ears, and upper body flushed instantly. Because his head was bowed, the vertebrae in his neck stood out. Fixing his gaze there, Cha Yiljoo soothed him as if he were a child.

“I’ll be careful. Don’t be nervous, just focus on acting.”

Although it was meant to comfort him, it didn’t provide much solace. It wasn’t something that could be resolved by one person being careful. Nevertheless, he nodded meaninglessly. He was afraid that his voice would tremble terribly if he opened his mouth.

After a while, Director Park returned. He sat down, checked the angle, and resumed filming without delay.

“Let’s get it right this time. Okay, Scene Number 26, Take Three!”

He closed his eyes for a moment. He took a deep breath to compose himself and slowly opened his eyelids. His eyes, which had been shaking, finally found their center of gravity.

Cha Yiljoo rolled his eyes and looked down at Euihyun. Perhaps he had made up his mind, but Euihyun no longer showed any unnecessary tension. The lingering tremor in his body seemed to stem from a completely different reason than before. A vague fear of entering a new world. That was ‘Myeongshin’s emotion, not Euihyun’s. He was completely immersed in the scene.

Now the problem wasn’t with him. It was with Cha Yiljoo himself, who couldn’t concentrate at all. Unconsciously, his eyes were once again observing Euihyun’s body. There was a tiny spot smaller than a grain of sand on the inside of his shoulder blade, in the shaded area. And another one on his right side. His slow, lingering gaze traveled down his smooth spine.

Soon, his hip line came into view. The fleshy part of his buttocks, in contact with the hard bottom of the bathtub, was pulled taut above his waist. Perhaps due to the water, it looked particularly firm.

Cha Yiljoo’s lips pressed tightly together. However, he couldn’t hide the dry swallow that went down his throat, or the strange heat that filled his eyes. It was fortunate that he had his back to the camera.

“Ready!”

He barely managed to hold onto his wandering consciousness. He tightened his grip on the towel.

“Go!”

He placed the wet towel on Euihyun’s body. Euihyun flinched and drew his shoulders back.

“I don’t like it! Don’t do that!”

His eyes, expression, gestures, and unique tone of voice were all perfectly ‘Myeongshin’. Cha Yiljoo grabbed his arm and expressed his annoyance as he had before.

“Don’t splash. You’ll get everything wet.”

But ‘Myeongshin’ thrashed his limbs even more violently. The water, churning wildly in the bathtub, finally overflowed. Water droplets scattered into the air, drenching Cha Yiljoo’s hair and clothes. Cha Yiljoo repeatedly pulled ‘Myeongshin’, who kept trying to escape, back into the tub. Although he should have been exhausted, ‘Myeongshin’ struggled desperately to break free from his grasp.

“Listen to me!”

“Aaah… I won’t do it! I won’t! Stop it!”

‘Myeongshin’ pushed ‘Yoohan’ away forcefully. Caught off guard by the uncontrollable force, ‘Yoohan’ fell back onto the floor. Taking advantage of the momentary gap, ‘Myeongshin’ ran out of the frame. ‘Yoohan’, sitting on the floor, wore a dumbfounded expression.

“Cut! See, it works when you focus.”

Director Park exclaimed cheerfully. His face was clear of all the pent-up frustration.

“Let’s take one more close-up shot. Change your clothes first.”

Euihyun nodded and said, “Yes.” Cha Yiljoo silently got up. Water dripped from his wet clothes. He waited in the bathtub while Cha Yiljoo went to change. Since a lot of water had overflowed, he filled the tub with hot water.

After a while, Cha Yiljoo returned. Filming resumed without further delay. The staff, who had restored the disheveled bathroom to its original state, hurried out. Cha Yiljoo and Euihyun were alone again within the camera frame. Director Park, completely absorbed in the camera, disappeared from Euihyun’s consciousness as soon as the cue sign was given.

They struggled as planned. The freshly drawn water overflowed, and ‘Yoohan’s clothes were completely soaked. He repeatedly caught ‘Myeongshin’, who kept trying to escape from the bathtub. Their bodies naturally came into close contact.

Euihyun’s body, naturally, had a different skeletal structure than women’s. The hardness of his bones, the firmness of his skin that yielded only under pressure, were strangely imprinted on his hand. As he realized he couldn’t suppress him carelessly, an unknown desire for conquest arose from deep within him. At some point, Cha Yiljoo became more engrossed in subduing Euihyun.

He pulled ‘Myeongshin’, who was trying to escape again, and forced him to sit down. ‘Myeongshin’, practically slumped in the bathtub, groaned and fidgeted.

‘Yoohan’, panting, held the wet towel over ‘Myeongshin’s head. ‘Myeongshin’ looked up in confusion. ‘Yoohan’, expressionless, wrung out the water from the towel. ‘Myeongshin’s hair and face got wet from the unexpected shower. The gazes of ‘Myeongshin’, staring blankly upwards, and ‘Yoohan’, gazing calmly downwards, clashed intensely.

“Okay!”

The cheerful shout brought him back to his senses. It was finally over. A belated sense of liberation washed over him, his mind blank. Euihyun said with a dazed expression,

“Good work.”

“Put on some clothes before you catch a cold.”

“Yes.”

He replied absentmindedly and looked around for something to cover himself with. He soon spotted a towel hanging on the wall. As he awkwardly got up, something soft suddenly settled over him. It was a bathrobe.

“You’ve worked hard.”

Cha Yiljoo, who had personally draped the robe over him, whispered softly. Then, before Euihyun could respond, he left the bathroom. The touch of his hand holding the robe, his body heat, disappeared along with him.

Euihyun stared blankly at the half-closed door and pulled the robe tightly around himself.

“What the… Are you okay?”

Director Park, who had been packing up the camera, was startled when he looked at Euihyun. At his alarmed voice, the waiting staff came in to check. They, too, widened their eyes. It was because of Euihyun, who was still in the bathtub.

He pressed his lips together, but he couldn’t stop his jaw from trembling. His whole body shook like a leaf.

“Get some rest. I’ll pick you up around ten tomorrow.”

Manager Han said, checking his wristwatch. Cha Yiljoo simply nodded vaguely. Whether it was because of the various changes on set or something else, he seemed much more tired than usual today. Even though his schedule was actually more relaxed than other days.

He patted Cha Yiljoo’s shoulder, saying, “See you tomorrow,” and left. Cha Yiljoo watched him go for a while before closing the front door and entering.

He didn’t even make it to the bedroom and collapsed onto the sofa. Even though it was late and the surroundings were dark, he didn’t even think about turning on the lights. He sat motionless for a long time, like someone in a trance.

He hadn’t even properly said goodbye to Euihyun. It seemed both Euihyun and Cha Yiljoo himself had only been thinking about leaving quickly. He couldn’t meet Euihyun’s eyes after the bathroom scene. He was anxious that the raw lust surging within him would be revealed.

“…….”

He suddenly looked at his hand. He had touched Euihyun with that hand. It was just acting, with no ulterior motives. Or was it really? For something that was just acting, the feel of his skin, his body temperature, came back to him too vividly.

His white skin was flawless. The gently protruding shoulder blades, the hollow of his straight spine. He couldn’t forget the sensation of his body flinching the moment his hand touched him.

He didn’t think he could be so sure. If he hadn’t been aware that they were acting, if Director Park hadn’t given the cut signal at the right moment, his hand might have wandered where it shouldn’t have. He couldn’t suppress his surging lust. For a moment, his body seemed to have heated up to an abnormal degree.

He abruptly got up from his seat. He couldn’t leave the disturbing thoughts that kept growing unchecked. He opened the bathroom door and went in. He was still fully dressed, but he turned on the showerhead fixed to the ceiling without hesitation.

Cold water, unadjusted for temperature, poured down relentlessly. His hair, face, and clothes were instantly soaked. But despite the reckless emergency measure, only his skin cooled. The intense energy that swirled through his body and surged up to his head intensified defiantly. The constantly replayed sensations in his palms, in his mind, sent a rush of heat to his groin.

He must have gone crazy from sexual frustration. There was no other explanation.

“…Damn it.”

Cha Yiljoo muttered a low curse and lowered his zipper. He impatiently opened his fly and grabbed his heated penis. A sharp pain shot up from his core, making his upper body shudder. He leaned his head against the wall and roughly stroked his throbbing flesh, his teeth clenching involuntarily.

He frowned as he felt the blood rushing to his groin. His hand, squeezing and stroking his penis, was quite frantic. Even though he rubbed as if he would tear off his swelling center, which was betraying his will, he couldn’t calm down. The excitement that coursed through his body only fueled his blood more passionately.

His vision blurred. His mind went blank. He squeezed his eyes shut at the unbearable tingling sensation. Then, on the inside of his eyelids, Euihyun’s naked body flickered like an afterimage. The white body, flinching the moment he touched him, was vividly replayed. Simultaneously, the crystallization of desire churning within him exploded white-hot.

“Ugh! Ugh….”

He gritted his teeth. He frowned and swallowed the moan that was about to escape. His lower body twitched, and thick semen splattered against the wall. His penis, repeatedly pulsing and spewing thick fluid, shuddered with a deep afterglow. His whole body became languid in an instant.

Cha Yiljoo staggered and leaned against the wall. As the heat that had been burning through him evaporated, a chilling emptiness settled in. He turned his head to the side, where the blatant evidence of his release mocked him. He reached out and roughly wiped it away. His face, chin tucked in, hardened gravely.

Meanwhile, the shower continued to spray cold water. The water pooling on the floor quickly drained into the drain. A faint steam rose from Cha Yiljoo’s body as he ran a hand through his wet hair. It was a phenomenon caused by the temperature difference.

After a long time, he left the bathroom. The feeling of his wet, clinging clothes was unbearably unpleasant. He was about to change when his phone rang. Even though he tried to ignore it, the vibration against the table created a noise that grated on his frayed nerves.

As if determined to ring until he answered, the vibration continued relentlessly. He stopped abruptly and strode towards the living room. Cha Yiljoo snatched his phone, raising his arm as if to throw it. He stopped because of the caller ID that caught his eye.

He slowly lowered his arm and reconfirmed the caller. His face, which had been contorted by the sudden surge of lust, quickly regained its usual composure.

“Yes.”

His voice, finally answering the call, was no different than usual. He held the phone to his ear and listened to what the other person was saying. He didn’t even interject with a “yes.” The other person, having unilaterally conveyed their message, hung up without hesitation. Cha Yiljoo stared at the silent phone for a moment before finally throwing it. There was a short, loud cracking sound.

He turned and headed to the dressing room. He tore off his uncomfortably clinging clothes. As he was choosing what to wear, Cha Yiljoo paused in thought. He put down the clothes he had picked up and took out a suit. After getting dressed, he thoroughly dried his wet hair with a hairdryer. He styled it neatly and finished preparing to go out.

He drove his sedan somewhere. Despite the smooth traffic flow due to the late hour, he frequently changed lanes.

A short while later, Cha Yiljoo arrived at a luxury hotel. He received the key that had been left for him at the front desk. He proceeded without a moment’s hesitation to the elevator dedicated to the suite rooms.

The elevator stopped at the 22nd floor, where the Club Suites were located. He walked down the quiet hallway without hesitation. The reserved room was not far away.

Even though he had the key, he rang the doorbell. There was a slight stir inside, and then the door opened. A woman peeked out at Cha Yiljoo. Cha Yiljoo also looked down at her silently. There was no conversation, no greeting.

The woman opened the door wider, granting Cha Yiljoo entry. Cha Yiljoo silently followed her. The two disappeared into the room, and the door slowly closed. The hallway returned to its previous silence.

🎥

He was dragged to the hospital early in the morning. Park Hanyoung didn’t believe him when he insisted he was fine. It was because of the last filming. She was convinced he had caught a bad summer cold and insisted on accompanying him. It was clear overprotectiveness. An elementary school student, who seemed to be alone, kept glancing at Euihyun and his companions sitting side-by-side. He felt embarrassed. He smiled slightly and averted his gaze. Just then, a nurse called his name.

“Mr. Jung Euihyun, please come into the examination room.”

“Yes.”

He casually got up. Park Hanyoung and Jung Eijin got up as well. The nurse tilted her head, looking at them curiously. He politely declined their offer to accompany him and hurried into the examination room.

As expected, the examination was over quickly. He explained his nonexistent symptoms and had his tonsils checked. The doctor, as old as the dilapidated building, listened to his breathing with a stethoscope on his back. He thought for a moment and then said it wasn’t a cold. He then asked, “Should I prescribe you some medicine anyway?”

He quietly declined and came out. Park Hanyoung and Jung Eijin, who had been waiting, stood up again. He approached them with an awkward expression.

“What did he say?”

“He said it’s not a cold. He examined me, and since there’s nothing wrong, he didn’t prescribe any medicine.”

“You were shaking like that, and it’s not a cold? Do you have some other illness? Should we go to a bigger hospital and get some tests done?”

“That’s because I was in the water for a long time and then suddenly came out… Anyway, I’m fine, so don’t worry.”

Their eyes were still full of suspicion. He quickly paid the medical bill and left the hospital, lest the argument drag on.

It wasn’t that he was actually sick. He had just been excessively nervous, and after filming, his strength had given out. By the time he arrived home, the trembling had subsided. However, his mind had become much more complicated. Each of Cha Yiljoo’s fingers that had touched his body was vividly replayed in his memory.

Wrestling with these distracting thoughts, he spent most of the long night awake. In just two days, his face had become incredibly haggard. That was the reason he had abruptly changed his course to the hospital before going to the filming set.

He didn’t know how he was supposed to face Cha Yiljoo, starting today. He hadn’t had any proper contact with him since the bathroom scene.

He thought he had been a little, perhaps, too complacent. He had thought it would be okay since it was just acting. He had optimistically assumed that, as it had always been, any sense of shame would disappear in front of the camera.

He was wrong. Because he was supposed to be shown consideration, all the staff had withdrawn, and with only the two of them left in front of the camera, his senses had become heightened. In the quiet surroundings, the sound of rippling water stimulated his hearing, and every cell in his body trembled at Cha Yiljoo’s touch. He tried to think of him as ‘Yoohan’, not Cha Yiljoo, but his concentration kept wavering, and he couldn’t.

It wasn’t something he could avoid now by trying to. Even though he knew it, he still hoped the encounter with Cha Yiljoo would be delayed, even just a little.

Contrary to his hopes, the van arrived at the filming location earlier than usual. As always, the atmosphere on set was bustling. He was about to enter, habitually greeting the staff members at the entrance, when the assistant director briefly stopped him.

“Euihyun, what should we do? There’s a problem with one of the equipment pieces, so it looks like filming will be delayed.”

“Ah, is it possible to fix it today?”

“Since the repairman is coming, we should be able to film, even if it’s late. Please go to the waiting room and rest for now. We’ll come and get you when we’re ready.”

“I understand.”

The assistant director answered an incoming call and disappeared somewhere. Euihyun and his companions headed to the waiting room on the second floor as instructed. As they passed the problematic bathroom, Euihyun handed the scenario he was reading to Park Hanyoung.

“I’ll just use the restroom for a moment.”

“Okay, sure.”

Park Hanyoung readily nodded and headed to the waiting room first.

Euihyun, entering the bathroom alone, cupped water in his hands and rinsed his mouth. He had a canker sore, and the sensation of the tongue depressor lingered in his dry mouth. He gargled several times to get rid of the foreign body sensation and then left the bathroom.

As he was walking towards the waiting room, Euihyun ran into Manager Han, who was coming out of a nearby room. He froze for a moment and then reflexively bowed.

“You’re here?”

“Yes.”

Manager Han, after a short reply, suddenly stepped aside and said, “Please go in.” He then fiddled with his phone and went downstairs. Did he have some business with Park Hanyoung? He wondered, and then opened the door without hesitation.

And then he stopped abruptly. Cha Yiljoo was asleep on the long sofa in the room. None of the staff, including the stylist, were in sight. It seemed he had entered the wrong room.

Since Manager Han had so casually told him to go in, he had assumed it was his waiting room. He had thought Manager Han was on his way out after meeting Park Hanyoung to discuss something. Of course, Manager Han must have also assumed that Euihyun, who was alone, had come to see Cha Yiljoo.

Whatever the reason, he had to leave. He was about to hurriedly close the door when…

“…….”

A faint breeze blew in from the wide-open window. The thin curtains fluttered, and sunlight poured through the gap. Cha Yiljoo tossed and turned as the annoying light flickered on his eyelids. The blanket he was covering himself with finally slipped to the floor.

Cha Yiljoo coughed slightly. Euihyun, who had been about to turn back, stopped in his tracks. He stared blankly for a moment and then, as if drawn by something, went inside. The person who had been afraid of encountering Cha Yiljoo just moments ago was gone. Each step he took felt incredibly surreal. His mind had given up on thinking, and he didn’t have time to consider whether it was a dream or reality.

He picked up the fallen blanket and covered Cha Yiljoo with it again. However, there was nothing he could do about the sunlight that streamed in every time the curtains fluttered. He carefully raised his hand. His hand shielded Cha Yiljoo’s eyes, creating a small shadow. Only then did the furrow in Cha Yiljoo’s brow slowly smooth out. A smile unconsciously spread across Euihyun’s lips.

He remained kneeling in front of the sofa for a while. After some time, his arms and back started to ache. He still hadn’t figured out how to stop the fluttering curtains. If he closed the window, the breeze that was blowing in would be blocked as well. He didn’t want to disturb Cha Yiljoo’s rare, sound sleep.

He carefully switched to his other arm. Doing so, he had nowhere to look but at Cha Yiljoo’s face. He tried to look towards the window, but he gave up due to the stiffness in his neck.

His gaze inevitably fixed on Cha Yiljoo’s face. He traced his smooth forehead, dark eyebrows, slightly protruding eyelids, and the prominent bridge of his nose with his eyes. Just doing that made his heart pound.

“…….”

He pressed his chin down. He pressed his lips together, enduring something. Uselessly, his hand gradually reached towards Cha Yiljoo’s face. The apprehension in his heart caused hesitation, shaking his fingertips that were blindly following his instincts.

This isn’t right. It was a terrible thing to do to someone who was asleep and unaware. He repeatedly admonished himself but couldn’t stop his hand. Soon, his fingertips gently touched Cha Yiljoo’s forehead. At that light contact, he flinched and pulled his arm back. Cha Yiljoo, whom he looked at consciously, was still fast asleep.

Everything is difficult the first time, but it becomes easier from the second time onwards. “No, you can’t,” his weak reason protested again. Despite that, his hand was once again touching Cha Yiljoo’s forehead. It then slid down to his brow, along the bridge of his nose, to his philtrum, his soft lips, and his sharp jawline.

When there was nowhere further to go, he suddenly came to his senses. He pulled his chin back sharply. His hand, falling away into the air, clenched into a fist.

Belated regret washed over him. What shameless act had he committed towards someone who was asleep? He was overwhelmed by an unbearable sense of self-disgust at the dark desires that had surfaced.

That was when it happened.

“…Will that satisfy you?”

Cha Yiljoo’s voice came from above his bowed head. His heart seemed to stop. He looked up incredulously, and Cha Yiljoo, now awake, was staring intently at Euihyun. He was startled as if burned. He quickly put his hands behind his back.

Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. His heart pounded uncontrollably. He felt nauseous on an empty stomach from the violent throbbing. He searched for an excuse. His mind momentarily went blank, and he couldn’t think of anything.

Since when had he been awake? No, that wasn’t important. Everything was secondary except for the fact that he had touched someone who was asleep.

Cha Yiljoo sat up abruptly. Euihyun quickly stood up in response. Even though his eyes were downcast, he could feel Cha Yiljoo’s blatant gaze on his face. He wished it was just his imagination, but Cha Yiljoo really didn’t take his eyes off him for a moment. Unable to bear the intense gaze, he apologized.

“I’m sorry. I mistook the waiting room….”

He added a clumsy excuse. It was true that it had started with that, but in the current situation, it felt absurd. Even he found it ridiculous. If he had mistaken the waiting room, he should have left. If he had stayed because he had something to say, he shouldn’t have done what he did. He was ashamed.

Cha Yiljoo didn’t say anything. He didn’t rebuke Euihyun, nor did he ask for an explanation. He simply stared intently at him. It felt like being repeatedly dipped in hellfire.

How much time had passed? He flinched at the sudden vibration. He felt something inside him collapse. He barely managed to calm his startled heart and took out his phone. It was a call from Park Hanyoung. She seemed to be worried since he hadn’t returned from the restroom and wasn’t in the bathroom either.

“I’m truly sorry for making you uncomfortable.”

He clutched his phone and apologized repeatedly. He bowed so deeply that he felt dizzy.

“Euihyun.”

He was about to turn around when a low voice stopped him in his tracks.

“I don’t know if it’s just sexual frustration… but these days, I imagine holding you, Euihyun.”

What was he talking about all of a sudden?

He couldn’t believe his ears. His heart, which had been pounding wildly as if it would burst out of his chest, suddenly stopped. No, it plummeted.

‘He wouldn’t ask me to sleep with him, would he?’

Why was he remembering Jang Daewoong’s words now?

‘Even if they’re straight, if they know the other person is gay, they casually suggest it. They’re curious about what it’s like between men. Whether they’re trash or well-mannered gentlemen, the interests of those with dicks are all the same.’

That couldn’t be. Cha Yiljoo would never be that kind of person.

“I’m afraid I’ll only hurt you if I act on my own accord.”

Euihyun’s brow furrowed painfully. He suddenly felt a tightness in his chest, making it hard to breathe. His clenched fists trembled slightly.

‘Frankly, if someone you like asks you to sleep with them, do you think you can refuse? If you’re lucky, you’ll become distant and that’ll be the end of it, but if you’re unlucky, you’ll be dragged around like an idiot? You’ll give your body, and in the end, you’ll be faced with the ridiculous situation of not being someone they want to date.’

“Why are you saying these things to me….”

He spoke while staring at the closed door. Even uttering a single word was not easy.

‘By any chance, do you know? The person Yiljoo is interested in.’

His head drooped further. He squeezed out a voice that sounded like it would disappear at any moment. His wavering heart was firmly resolved.

“…are you saying this?”

“Euihyun?”

Cha Yiljoo sensed something strange in his fragmented words. He got up from his seat and approached Euihyun.

He couldn’t succumb to the provocation now. It wasn’t that he was afraid of being hurt. The excuse of physical attraction was too flimsy and light to break the relationship he had barely managed to maintain. If he rashly responded, it would completely fall apart. And then there would be no turning back. Moreover…

‘I don’t know much, but I’m sure she’s an amazing person. Judging from the people Yiljoo has dated so far, his standards are incredibly high. But this time seems different. He’s constantly anxious and seriously worried about the relationship falling apart? I wonder if he’s going to suddenly announce marriage or something.’

He squeezed his eyes shut. He exhaled slowly. If it was something he would regret later, it was best not to start it at all.

“I don’t think that’s something you should say to me.”

Cha Yiljoo stopped abruptly. He didn’t say anything for a while. He simply stared at Euihyun, who was standing right in front of him, as if he would pierce him with his gaze.

After a long while, he reconfirmed Euihyun’s intentions. His voice had turned cold.

“Are you saying it’s over now, Euihyun?”

“I don’t want that kind of relationship.”

He drew a clearer line. The conversation stopped again. The dizzying air instantly turned stiff. If the window hadn’t been open, he would have suffocated.

“…I understand. I’m sorry for saying something unnecessary.”

Cha Yiljoo broke the tense silence.

“Please also refrain from any actions that might cause confusion in the future, Euihyun.”

His pointed words chilled his heart. He barely managed to nod, unsure if he could keep his voice from trembling. Cha Yiljoo didn’t say anything more.

Just then, there was a sudden knock. He also heard the voice saying, “I’ll come in.” It seemed to be Park Hanyoung. He peeked through the crack in the door and, seeing Euihyun standing right there, wore an “I knew it” expression.

“You were here all along? I called you earlier, but you didn’t answer.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t hear it.”

“Come on. We’re short on time to get ready.”

“Yes.”

Led by Park Hanyoung, he left Cha Yiljoo’s waiting room. He couldn’t see Cha Yiljoo’s expression because he had his back turned the whole time.

The vague fear he had been subconsciously feeling around Cha Yiljoo recently seemed to be about to reveal itself. He didn’t want to know, whatever it was. All emotions, the moment their identity is revealed, become real and gain powerful momentum, shattering existing relationships.

He didn’t want to repeat the same mistake again.

“Good work everyone!”

He clapped his hands, signaling the end of filming. Despite his worries, the work itself went smoothly. Because he had so much on his mind, he was able to put everything aside and focus solely on acting.

Cha Yiljoo also immersed himself as if nothing had happened. He didn’t frown or give him awkward glances. Thanks to that, he could feel peaceful, free from distracting thoughts, during the acting.

Of course, it was different during the intermittent breaks. He kept being conscious of Cha Yiljoo, even though he tried not to. On the other hand, Cha Yiljoo was no different than usual. He talked casually with the staff and maintained a relaxed attitude. He laughed freely.

He seemed to have regained his composure. It wasn’t a big deal to him. The conversation in the waiting room was nothing more than a slight impulse or adventure. He couldn’t have possibly meant it seriously.

So, it was right for him to brush it off as a strange dream. He was the one who had provided the opportunity in the first place, so he had to deal with it. The lingering bitterness came from the feeling that once a relationship goes awry, it inevitably falls apart, one way or another.

“Oppa, let’s go quickly.”

Jung Eijin urged Euihyun, who was standing there blankly. He came to his senses. It seemed he had been spacing out again without realizing it. How long was he going to be like this?

He sighed softly and followed Jung Eijin. Around that time, he heard whispering voices behind him. The strangely excited air brought a strange sense of déjà vu.

“Huh? Isn’t that Min Ahyun?”

“You’re right. What’s she doing here?”

He stopped for a moment and turned his head. He saw Min Ahyun entering the mansion.

“Hello.”

Min Ahyun greeted everyone with a bright smile, though her greeting wasn’t directed at anyone in particular. The nearby staff members bowed their heads, looking puzzled. Min Ahyun’s manager handed them a box he was carrying. It contained neatly packaged fruit.

“You must be working hard. Please have some of this.”

She warmly offered and handed out fruit boxes. She smiled brightly, saying, “Enjoy.” The set seemed to be filled with an unusual liveliness.

Min Ahyun, who had been looking around, soon spotted Euihyun. Her eyes curved into a smile. Jung Eijin, behind him, said, “See? I told you.”

He quickly approached Min Ahyun.

“Ahyun, what brings you here?”

“I just stopped by while passing through. I heard you were here, Euihyun.”

“…Ah. You could have contacted me.”

“I thought you would be bothered if I told you I was coming. I didn’t want to interrupt filming.”

Min Ahyun said, “Eijin, you too,” and acknowledged Jung Eijin, who was clinging to Euihyun like a limpet. Jung Eijin’s eyes widened at the fact that she, a mere stylist, knew her name.

“Oh, hello. It’s been a while.”

She then greeted someone else cheerfully. Her gaze was directed over Euihyun’s shoulder. He smelled a familiar scent nearby. He turned around hesitantly and, as expected, made eye contact with Cha Yiljoo. He shifted his gaze from Euihyun to Min Ahyun.

“Yes. It’s been a while. What a coincidence seeing you here.”

“I contacted Euihyun’s manager, and he said filming was almost over. I wanted to go on a date with Euihyun since it’s been a while.”

At her sudden remark, the staff members all turned their attention to the three of them. Cha Yiljoo simply looked down at Min Ahyun with a calm gaze. A strange smile played on his lips. He stopped Min Ahyun with an embarrassed expression as the attention focused on them.

“Ah, Ahyun… If you say things like that, people will misunderstand.”

“Oh, come on.”

Perhaps she didn’t care about scandals, she seemed remarkably unconcerned.

“Anyway, are you free tonight?”

She pushed forward relentlessly. Before Euihyun could answer, Cha Yiljoo abruptly cut in.

“Your timing is always bad, Ahyun.”

He was still smiling, but it seemed somewhat sarcastic. Min Ahyun tilted her head.

“Why? Do you have another appointment?”

“No….”

“I have something to discuss with Euihyun. We have some unfinished business.”

He interrupted Euihyun again. Cha Yiljoo’s gaze was still fixed on Min Ahyun.

What unfinished business could they possibly have? He had clearly refused him, and Cha Yiljoo seemed to have resigned himself to it. Even if he wanted to continue the conversation, it was just his unilateral wish and couldn’t be considered a prior engagement. Above all, he wanted to avoid being alone with Cha Yiljoo on the same day they had that conversation. It would be difficult to feign composure.

Min Ahyun looked at Euihyun with a questioning expression. Around that time, Cha Yiljoo’s gaze also shifted to the back of Euihyun’s head. He lowered his head slightly.

“…If it’s about that, it’s over.”

He mumbled in a small voice. Min Ahyun’s face brightened.

“That’s good. Actually, I have a ticket to a musical. I thought you might enjoy it, Euihyun.”

Min Ahyun smiled brightly and came closer. Even though he was desperately trying to focus on her, all his senses were drawn backwards. It felt like thorns were pricking the back of his head.

Cha Yiljoo let out a long sigh and muttered as if to himself,

“Can’t be helped then.”

Cha Yiljoo’s distinct presence quickly faded. When he glanced back, Cha Yiljoo was going up to the second floor where the waiting rooms were. He hadn’t even offered a common farewell like “see you later” or “take care”.

Was he angry? No, it wasn’t something to be so emotional about. The anxiety and impatience caused by ‘her’ had simply transformed into a misplaced desire. It was nothing more, nothing less, than the inherent human curiosity towards the unknown.

No matter how much Cha Yiljoo wanted it, or even if he wanted it too, they couldn’t proceed with such a precarious relationship. It was the last vestige of his pride regarding his feelings for him. He steeled his resolve. It would be a lie to say he wasn’t afraid of being hated, but he couldn’t genuinely engage in a momentary fling. He didn’t want to sell himself short, even if it meant having his true feelings rejected.

“Did you fight with Cha Yiljoo? You’ve been looking down since earlier.”

Min Ahyun whispered softly. Thanks to her, he could guess Cha Yiljoo’s expression, which he had been avoiding. His heart felt heavy.

It was only when they arrived at the theater that Euihyun realized the musical they were about to see was directed by Kang Moohyung. On the way there, he heard about the recent activities of the actors he had performed with a few years ago. Min Ahyun was proud, as if it were her own accomplishment, that some of them were now performing on such a grand stage. Although he wasn’t the type to forget faces easily, he couldn’t quite recall them. It was because his mind was preoccupied with other things.

“Everyone was curious about you, Euihyun. I heard you gradually lost contact after you started acting again.”

“…Is that so.”

“Are you feeling unwell?”

Min Ahyun, who had been chattering excitedly, suddenly expressed concern. He had been spacing out since they left the set, and his lack of response to anything she said was strange. She was even more worried because she knew he wasn’t usually like that.

“No, I’m fine.”

He gave a faint smile. He felt like he was being a nuisance, even though he had come along. He tried to shake off his distracting thoughts and focus on the present.

Despite it being a weekday, there were no empty seats in the theater. They entered right before the entrance closed. Even in that short time, the audience members who recognized their faces kept glancing at them. Their names were mentioned in the whispers here and there. The ushers asked for silence. Only then did the restless audience quiet down.

Soon, the entrance doors closed, and all the lights went out. The lights focused on the stage, and the performance began. It was his first time enjoying something like this in a while. The dazzling group dance unfolding before his eyes, the explosive singing ability, the ever-changing stage backdrop, captivated him. He became completely absorbed as an audience member, clapping and reacting, forgetting himself and his worries.

“It’s almost intermission, let’s go to the waiting room.”

Min Ahyun whispered softly. Only then did he realize that quite a bit of time had passed. Around the time the first act was nearing its climax, an usher approached them, crouching low. He quietly left his seat, following the usher’s gesture.

The usher led them to the waiting room backstage. Sweat-drenched actors were catching their breath inside. Min Ahyun opened the door without hesitation.

“Hello, everyone.”

“Oh? Ahyun is here.”

The actors, who were already acquainted with her, greeted her with smiles. After exchanging greetings noisily, everyone’s attention focused on Euihyun.

“Hello.”

He greeted them politely. The actors all replied, “Hello,” in unison. As Min Ahyun had told him, there were some familiar faces. One of the men approached and offered him a handshake.

“It’s been a while. Do you remember me? We were on the same stage back then.”