WOP Ch 6.2

When he opened his eyes, he was surrounded by darkness. Ha Joyoon blinked slowly a few times before sitting up in bed.

Though it was a daily occurrence, he still dreaded waking up. It was due to the experience of losing the most brilliant part of his life twice. He feared that time would have passed unnoticed while he slept, that the people he loved would have changed, that everything would be different when he saw them again. Even though he knew it was foolish, not all his thoughts were always rational and logical.

As he came to his senses, he realized the source of the darkness. The curtains were drawn across every window, and the double blinds were meticulously lowered, completely blocking out any external light.

What time was it?

He fumbled for the light switch. As the room brightened, he noticed his phone on the nightstand. The screen flickered with notification icons, indicating he had received messages while he slept. He picked up the device, his gaze softening as he read the messages.

「What are you doing?」

「Are you sleeping?」

「Did you have lunch?」

「Are you still sleeping?」

「Did you have dinner?」

“Haha…”

He couldn’t help but chuckle. The messages filling the screen were all short and to the point. There were only a handful of complete sentences, which was typical of the incredibly efficient man he knew. The intervals between the messages grew shorter and shorter. He could almost hear Shin Kwonjoo’s voice, laced with suppressed impatience, and a wave of amusement washed over him.

How could he possibly express this feeling with a single word?

Wiping the corners of his teary eyes, Joyoon walked towards the closet where his coat hung. He grabbed the thick outerwear and raised the blinds, finally revealing the scene outside.

‘I slept like a log…’

He slipped on his coat with a sheepish grin. After a quick glance around the room, he pulled on a furry hat and reached for the doorknob. What was the company’s address again? Was Shin Kwonjoo even at the office? What if he was out on a field assignment? Should he call first?

Even as he stepped outside, the cold air biting at his exposed skin, Ha Joyoon continued to ponder how to find Shin Kwonjoo. He wished he could see him right now, hold him close all day – such embarrassing thoughts filled his mind.

The cold air stung his cheeks after only a few steps. It was bitterly cold. Large snowflakes, carried by the wind, brushed against his eyelashes with every blink.

As he brushed the snow off his shoes, just before leaving the house, he remembered Shin Kwonjoo grumbling about the awful weather. The memory brought a smile to his lips. It was serious. He knew it, but there was no cure. The feelings he had suppressed and hidden for years were now unleashed, washing over him like a torrential downpour.

‘I want to see him.’

There was no other reason. He simply wanted to see him, right now. Exhaling a white puff of breath, Ha Joyoon walked towards the main street. Most of the shops were already closed due to the impending blizzard, casting a gloomy shadow over the street.

The roads were almost deserted, well past rush hour. He spotted a few people hurrying through the snow and quickened his pace towards the metro station. A strong gust of wind swept past, as if washing away all his sins.

‘What was the route again…?’

Standing at the entrance to the station, Ha Joyoon pulled out his phone, trying to recall the route to headquarters. It would be best to call ahead in case they missed each other. He dialed the familiar number, the monotonous ringing tone filling his ear. After a few rings, the call connected.

—You’re awake?

He couldn’t help but chuckle at the abrupt question. He remembered the constant stream of messages from Shin Kwonjoo: Are you still sleeping? Did you eat? Despite the pretense of composure, the underlying urgency wasn’t completely hidden. It made him feel cherished, and it made him miss him even more.

Captivated by that cold passion…

“Yes.”

—Are you outside?

The street was silent, devoid of cars, but Shin Kwonjoo knew instantly. Was he being watched? Suppressing a smile, Ha Joyoon adjusted his hat and descended the stairs.

“How did you know?”

—I can hear the echo. Are you going indoors? Will you eat dinner before coming home?

“No… I just left the house. Where are you?”

—You left the house? Why? Don’t tell me you slept this whole time?

Had he always been this nagging? Thinking of the past Shin Kwonjoo, who only spoke when necessary, Ha Joyoon rubbed his cold cheeks. He wanted to see him, but he was also relieved that they weren’t together right now.

—Why aren’t you saying anything?

…Because he knew how foolish his expression must be. He didn’t want Shin Kwonjoo to see it.

He pressed his finger against his twitching lips, holding the phone close to his ear, as if it would bring him closer to Shin Kwonjoo, as if to make up for the lost time.

“Just… I missed you…”

Tap. Tap. His footsteps echoed on the stairs, a mixture of longing and joy. Unable to hide his emotions, Ha Joyoon quickened his pace.

“Sunbae-nim, I’m at the subway station now.”

—The subway station?

“It’s quite far from your place. I got lost and walked for a while.”

—You walked all that way? You should have called an Uber.

“It’s okay. I’m heading towards your office… where are you? I’ll come to you.”

—…….

A long silence followed. Shin Kwonjoo also seemed to be outside, surrounded by the murmur of voices. He seemed to be in a crowded place. Tap, tap, tap, The sound of his footsteps suggested he was hurrying somewhere. As the silence continued, Ha Joyoon tilted his head and reached into his pocket for his wallet.

“Are you busy? Should I wait at home… ah.”

He stopped mid-stride as a memory surfaced.

‘As you know, the media industry is a conservative group. If you continue to work independently, it won’t be a problem, but if you affiliate yourself with an organization, it’s best to be careful. Especially you, Mr. Ha Joyoon, you need to learn how to mask your expressions.’

Heat flushed his cold cheeks. Shame. He blinked, his lips parting slightly. He had been so caught up in his emotions that he hadn’t thought things through. His bad habit of becoming oblivious to everything else when focused on one thing had resurfaced. Unlike himself, who had no ties, Shin Kwonjoo held a prominent position and was constantly in the public eye. It wouldn’t be good for their relationship to be exposed.

He felt a pang of sadness, but in the long run, being cautious would be the best way to protect their relationship. He hid his embarrassed expression in his freezing hands and cleared his throat.

“Sunbae-nim, I just realized I forgot my umbrella. I think I should go back home. Have you had dinner? Should we eat together at your place?”

He forced down his disappointment and turned around. Just then, Shin Kwonjoo’s deep voice broke the silence.

—I think I know what you’re thinking.

His breathing was heavy. He paused before continuing.

—Forget everything I said. It was nonsense.

“…”

The words he had heard once before now carried a different meaning.

What could he possibly hide from him?

Biting his lip hesitantly, Ha Joyoon tried to express his frustration indirectly. He wanted to say something, anything, but his lack of eloquence failed him once again. He wished he were more articulate, more experienced, able to express his thoughts clearly.

A gust of wind blew, cold and sharp. His gaze followed its direction, hoping it would carry his unexpressed feelings to their intended recipient.

—Wait there. I’m heading to the ticket gates now.

“Huh?”

—The snow is too heavy, so I left my car at work and took the subway.

The voice on the phone and the voice in his memory overlapped strangely. The odd sense of distance and unreality made him turn towards the ticket gates. A crowd of people emerged from the stairway, likely from the train that had just passed through the station.

Among the sea of different hair colors, Ha Joyoon found himself searching for the familiar shade of dark, night-like hair. And the eyes that held the same color.

“Oh.”

After what felt like an eternity, the person he had been waiting for appeared through the crowd. As if confirming his hurried footsteps from their earlier conversation, Shin Kwonjoo was scanning the station anxiously. While Ha Joyoon hesitated, unsure what to do, Shin Kwonjoo made the first move, as always.

“Ha Joyoon!”

Despite being only a dozen meters away, Shin Kwonjoo rushed towards him as if crossing thousands of kilometers. Ha Joyoon watched, speechless, as the tall figure, head and shoulders above the other commuters, hurried towards him.

“Why did you come out here?”

Shin Kwonjoo reached him, slightly out of breath, and grasped Ha Joyoon’s wrist. Looking at his tense face, his cheeks paler than usual from the cold, Ha Joyoon felt a sudden urge to warm them with his hands. Lost in thought, he blurted out,

“I missed you.”

Shin Kwonjoo’s expression froze, as if taken aback by the unexpected confession. His lips, pressed tightly together, finally parted as he exhaled slowly.

“You have no shame.”

He clicked his tongue, but his grip on Ha Joyoon’s wrist didn’t loosen. The chiding words held no weight. His firm grip sparked a flicker of hope, a selfish desire to be bound to him forever.

“Is that all you’re wearing?”

Shin Kwonjoo stopped after a few steps and asked. Huh? Ha Joyoon looked at his reflection in a shop window. His thick parka and tightly wrapped scarf seemed appropriate for the weather. Shin Kwonjoo frowned slightly and took off his gloves.

“This is a bit…”

“Don’t say it. I know it’s overkill.”

Ha Joyoon’s reply was curt as he slipped on the gloves. Shin Kwonjoo’s face remained expressionless, but there was a hint of awkwardness in his demeanor. In the past, Ha Joyoon might have interpreted it as anger, but now he recognized the clumsiness and affection hidden beneath the surface. It was strange, getting to know these subtle changes in him. He couldn’t help but smile.

He was about to nod when he noticed Shin Kwonjoo’s bare neck. He had been wearing a scarf when he left. Joyoon stared for a moment before slowly unwrapping his own scarf.

“…What are you doing?”

Shin Kwonjoo asked, his voice slightly stiff, as he watched Joyoon clumsily wrap the scarf around his neck. He looked slightly flustered, his hand hovering uncertainly.

“You looked cold.”

“Who’s talking…”

He sighed, exasperated, but his gaze lingered on Ha Joyoon’s pale fingers. Despite his awkward expression, Shin Kwonjoo patiently waited for him to finish. Ha Joyoon stepped back after finally tying a clumsy knot. The knitted scarf looked good against his dark beige coat. He blushed at the childish thought that Shin Kwonjoo looked like he had stepped out of a painting.

“What strange fantasies are you having now?”

Shin Kwonjoo’s teasing remark made Joyoon frown as he shoved his hands into his pockets.

“It’s nothing like that.”

“Sure it isn’t.”

“Let’s go. It’s cold…”

The streetlights cast a soft glow on the dark street. An awkward silence fell between them, not uncomfortable, but filled with a shy uncertainty. They walked on in silence, their footsteps echoing on the pavement. The air grew colder as they climbed the stairs to street level. The streets were deserted at this late hour.

“I tried to go to the place you recommended, but it was closed.”

“Did you think this was Korea? No restaurant would be open at this hour.”

“I’m hungry because I slept all day.”

Shin Kwonjoo’s smooth brow furrowed in disapproval. The gloves he had given him were a bit too large, but they were incredibly warm. He glanced ahead, seemingly satisfied with his handiwork.

“You haven’t eaten anything? There was food in the fridge. Didn’t someone come over this afternoon and prepare a meal?”

“Ah, I didn’t think to look in the kitchen.”

He had rushed out the moment he woke up. But he swallowed the explanation, not wanting to make the already awkward atmosphere even more strained. Shin Kwonjoo smirked, seemingly interpreting his silence.

“Excuses.”

He checked his watch and clicked his tongue, scanning their surroundings, likely looking for an open restaurant. Ha Joyoon chuckled and gently took his arm. It was already dark. As Shin Kwonjoo had said, no restaurant would be open at this hour, especially not in America. He didn’t want to waste time wandering around; he wanted to go home, together.

His desire was evident in the bright smile that bloomed on his face. Sunbae-nim. His voice was soft and gentle, reflecting his sincere nature. Shin Kwonjoo’s dark eyes gazed at him silently.

“What?”

“…Let’s go home. You said there was food. Let’s eat there.”

Shin Kwonjoo’s gaze lingered on Ha Joyoon’s hand on his arm before he finally nodded and started walking. He didn’t let go of Ha Joyoon’s wrist as they walked home. Surrounded by the bustling crowd, no one paid them any attention. In this foreign land, their worlds moved at their own pace.

They didn’t eat when they got home. They went straight to the bedroom.

Ha Joyoon gripped Shin Kwonjoo’s forearm as he felt him slide inside, the entrance easily yielding after their earlier activities. His legs were weak, his body exhausted from their repeated lovemaking.

Mm, mm… Strange moans, not quite his own, escaped his lips involuntarily. He blushed and bit his lip as Shin Kwonjoo smirked, nudging against his sensitive spot inside. The blunt tip grazed his prostate, sending a shiver through him. Joyoon-ah. Shin Kwonjoo murmured his name, his gaze fixed on his entrance.

“You’re so open.”

“Mm… so open…?”

His voice trembled with a hint of concern. Shin Kwonjoo chuckled and pulled back slightly, making Ha Joyoon’s entrance stretch and twitch.

“You open up so easily.”

“Mm!”

“I wonder if you’ll open even more if we do this a lot. …Nnngh.”

He pulled out almost completely before thrusting back in, burying himself deep inside. Just as he had said, slick with their combined fluids and already loosened from repeated use, Ha Joyoon’s entrance readily accepted him, clenching around him. The impact sent a jolt through him, his body twitching. The sound of skin slapping against skin filled the air as their bodies moved together, slick with sweat. He gasped, his lips parting.

“Haa…”

A moan of pleasure escaped his lips. The overwhelming sensation briefly brought him back to his senses. Ha Joyoon blinked his heavy eyelids, focusing on the man above him. His sharp, sculpted features were softened by pleasure. A change brought about by him. The realization sent a strange thrill through him, and he reached out to caress Shin Kwonjoo’s cheek. The smooth skin felt cool against his rough palm. Shin Kwonjoo’s jewel-like eyes slowly opened.

“Joyoon-ah.”

“Mm! Nnngh! Mm…!”

“Ha Joyoon…!”

Unable to hold back any longer, Shin Kwonjoo began to thrust faster, his movements growing frantic. Ha Joyoon’s body thrashed beneath him, his entrance stretched to its limit, slick with Shin Kwonjoo’s semen. He felt full, overflowing. His mind went blank, his heavy body floating, a mixture of fullness and pleasure washing over him. The strange pleasure that followed the sharp pain made him cling tighter to Shin Kwonjoo, his arms wrapping around his sweat-slicked body.

“Ah— Mm!”

Just as Shin Kwonjoo thrust deep inside one last time, he climaxed. His large body shuddered, his toes digging into the sheets. Ha Joyoon’s hand, gripping his back, twitched. The feeling of warmth spreading through him was intensely vivid, his body shivering beneath Shin Kwonjoo’s tanned skin. He hadn’t even been touched in front, yet he was coming again, he didn’t even know how many times now, just from the penetration.

“You come easily even without me touching you.”

Shin Kwonjoo murmured crudely, having emptied himself completely. You come just from being fucked. He nibbled on Ha Joyoon’s earlobe, his words echoing his old, teasing habit. Ha Joyoon blushed and waved his hand dismissively.

“…Don’t say things like that.”

Their sweat-soaked bodies rubbed together without reservation. Though it might have felt sticky, neither of them readily moved to wash up first. Just the continuation of lingering kisses and gestures to touch each other a little more was all. The heated air slowly returned to its original temperature. Ha Joyoon pushed away Shin Kwonjoo’s face as he nipped and kissed his earlobe and neck, but the smile didn’t disappear from his lips.

“What time are you going to the airport tomorrow?”

“…I’m not going.”

The man, who had moved his kisses down to the nape of his neck, answered slowly. At the unexpected reply, Ha Joyoon’s eyes widened, and he twisted his body slightly.

“Was it cancelled?”

“…….”

A rare look of hesitation flitted across his face. After a short silence, Shin Kwonjoo nodded his head a couple of times. Ha Joyoon sensed something odd in the subtle shift in the atmosphere but couldn’t delve deeper, tilting his head in question. “I see,” he murmured, unable to hide the joy in his voice, which caused the man’s gaze to deepen with emotion.

“You’re happy I’m not going?”

Shin Kwonjoo asked in a gruff tone. The person in question didn’t hesitate to nod twice and answer.

“Yes….”

“You were pretending to be indifferent.”

“Do I have the right to be upset?”

“Good to know.”

“Well, I’m still happy.”

His lips curved into a wide smile. The plump skin under his eyes and his long, slanted eyes also curved beautifully, and a truly beautiful smile was etched on his white face like a painting. Shin Kwonjoo stared silently at him for a moment, then reached out, turned his body, and kissed him.

The unbearable feeling for this person, who smiled foolishly without even thinking of arguing back, relentlessly squeezed his heart, ribs, and solar plexus. No matter how many times he thrust his penis inside, ejaculated, kissed, and licked his entire body, it was difficult to quench his thirst. Holding the body in his arms tightly, Shin Kwonjoo whispered quietly.

“Can’t you play hard to get? Why do you always come at me so directly?”

“Directly? I don’t quite understand….”

“…It feels foolish to play mind games with you.”

“Haha.”

A muffled laugh was heard. It sounded strangely like the voice he had missed all this time. His mind calmed down to an unusual degree. It was a strange feeling.

Love. A forgotten word came to mind. It was a word that named a certain emotion that he had firmly closed off, covered with multiple layers, and thrown deep beneath the sea as he left Korea.

Tendons stood out on the back of his hand. He buried his nose in the crook of his shoulder. He inhaled deeply, and the sweet scent of skin rose. His penis, which had been playfully poking at the other man’s soft perineum, regained its strength and began to harden little by little. As he playfully pressed against the perineum and inner walls, the body in his arms flinched.

“I can’t do it anymore.”

“What?”

“…Sex. It’s not closing properly even now. Let’s do it tomorrow, Sunbae-nim.”

“I don’t have any strength.” He rustled and reached out, touching his open backside, shaped by their lovemaking, with a worried expression.

“What’s with being shy after saying all those explicit things?”

“It’s because I’m tired….”

Looking down at the flustered Ha Joyoon, Shin Kwonjoo quietly curved his lips into a smile. This person was uninhibited in their explicit expressions in strange situations. Both in his actions and words.

He was shy and reserved, yet at some point, he would suddenly cross the line without any restraint. And yet, he wasn’t even aware of it himself.

…In truth, it didn’t matter. To the point where he cancelled all his schedules without a second thought. And even this awkward and pathetic self, who didn’t tell him for fear that the other person would feel burdened.

“Ha Joyoon.”

Actually, it’s not so bad.

“…Yes.”

The slow patting on his back held an undeniable tenderness. His soft hair rustled and scattered with each shallow breath. Even though he had gained a little weight compared to the body in his memories, it was still slender. Taking in each feature of his face as he drowsily closed his eyes, he slowly opened his lips. Various memories were intertwined in a chaotic way, but the central emotion within them, though its brightness and saturation may have changed, its color had never changed.

“Do you want to properly date me?”

Ha Joyoon’s body stiffened, his breath catching in his throat. Regardless of his reaction, the slow stroking of his hair continued. It was a light and frivolous beginning. The fact that he had regretted it for a long time was his arrogance and the distorted relationship that resulted from it. It was also a hypocritical relationship that prevented him from approaching him sincerely.

Shin Kwonjoo, for the first time, revealed his true feelings without calculating profit or loss.

He didn’t say the word “love.” He knew those words would make this timid person run away. But he wanted to keep him tied to him in some way. He wanted Ha Joyoon to belong to him.

The bright eyes reflected in the lights, imprinted beautifully on his retina, couldn’t be more beautiful. The crazy thought, which he had never had even as a snot-nosed kid, that they were more beautiful than any jewel in the world, flowed out uncontrollably. However, the man’s face, as he formed each word into language, was firm and strong, as if he were completely unaware of such confusion.

“Seriously.”

The emphasized voice held an intangible power. Even the rustling movements ceased completely. The faint sound of breathing, barely audible if one didn’t strain their ears, was all that could be heard between them. It was a long time before he spoke.

“…Sunbae-nim.”

“Don’t give me any strange answers. Just tell me yes or no.”

“Do I deserve that?”

His quiet voice resonated heavily. It was a voice filled with the memories and guilt that had tormented Joyoon for so long. At the infinitely heavy voice, Shin Kwonjoo chuckled lightly and pulled him closer.

“Who gives you that right?”

“…….”

“My past, as you know, isn’t very good. So, am I not qualified?”

“…No.”

With a weak laugh, Ha Joyoon shook his head. Shin Kwonjoo’s past didn’t matter to him at all. He knew that whatever experiences he had, they formed the foundation of who he was today. No one, not even himself, had the right to criticize those roots.

“As I said before, you think too much about useless things. If you like it, you like it, and if you don’t, you don’t.”

“Still….”

“Come here.”

After a long while, Ha Joyoon slowly wrapped his arms around Shin Kwonjoo’s bare back with clumsy hands. Only quiet breaths could be heard, but as if he had already heard the answer, Shin Kwonjoo smiled contentedly, buried his face in his thick hair, and kissed him. Ha Joyoon answered Shin Kwonjoo’s suggestion to properly date by embracing him.

Knowing that this was the heart of the timid you, I won’t press for an answer any further.

It was a time when the midwinter night flowed like a dream.

❄

[This is horrible.]

[…….]

[It’s truly horrible. Do you understand?]

A whimper resembling a scream and a protest poured out relentlessly. Despite receiving the full brunt of the other person’s accusations, the man’s expression remained unchanged. A click, and a cigarette burned with a hot flame, releasing smoke. The primal stimulus seeped deep into his lungs.

[Do you feel sorry?]

Though he showed no sign of remorse, his words were utterly shameless. Damian Boyle bit his lip, which had been chewed raw and had no skin left to break, and hurriedly lit a cigarette. Despair washed over him.

[Bloody hell, Toronto….]

[…….]

[I should’ve known when two days became two weeks.]

Acrid smoke billowed from between his lips. His round eyes turned sharp at the sound of a chuckle.

[Don’t laugh! This is your fault.]

[You were due for a rotation anyway. It’s fortunate you didn’t end up all the way in Europe. I think it’s rather a good thing. You didn’t think you’d stay at headquarters forever, did you? And it’s only for half a year.]

The Toronto business trip, which Boyle reluctantly took at Shin Kwonjoo’s not-so-subtle urging, was nothing short of a disaster. First, due to system setup and maintenance issues, the initially planned two days extended to nearly two weeks, and the problems persisted even after his return, ultimately leading to the posting decision this morning. With the sudden decision to dispatch him to a branch office for nearly half a year, Boyle’s mood plummeted.

[Yeah, I know. I know it’s better this way, but I still can’t help but feel bloody awful.]

[I won’t bother mentioning how many years I’ve spent wandering abroad.]

[That’s true, but still.]

With one arm casually crossed, Shin Kwonjoo nonchalantly stubbed out his half-smoked cigarette. His expression was utterly serene, as if he had no concern for his colleague’s despairing voice.

[Speaking of which, want to grab a drink after work today? I found a decent pub.]

[Another time.]

The man, gazing distantly somewhere outside the building, retorted cynically. Boyle’s grumbling continued for a while, fueled by the callous feedback, but that was all.

Shin Kwonjoo stared down at the cars rushing towards their respective destinations, seemingly disinterested in everything. The sky was already darkening, despite it being afternoon, due to the shorter days. Soon, darkness would blanket the world, and neon signs would cover the city in between. He thought of someone who wasn’t there, his gaze becoming more distant. Even within the time-constrained hours, the remaining time felt strangely long.

His pace slowed considerably as he approached the front door. Unlike usual, his steps seemed laden with myriad thoughts. Thud. He came to a complete stop, just a step away from the front door.

“…….”

His hand, reaching for the keypad, hesitated mid-air. It remained bent in the position to enter the code. After staring at the door for a moment, Shin Kwonjoo moved his hand further to the right and pressed a small button.

An unfamiliar melody soon chimed through the small speaker. Standing still, waiting for a response from beyond the door, the man suddenly realized that this was the first time he’d heard the doorbell ring. It was because he hadn’t had anyone inside the house.

As he briefly reminisced, the sound of approaching footsteps came from beyond the door. Shin Kwonjoo’s expression, as he listened to the sound gradually growing louder, was unusually calm and composed. He imagined the scene that would unfold before his eyes shortly. The door would open, and someone would come out to greet him. That person would probably be the one he had longed for and yearned for endlessly, unconsciously, for quite some time.

It was ironic. Even after leaving Korea, his life hadn’t changed. There were times when he felt a sense of regret, but it dulled over time, and as always, he lived diligently performing his given tasks. The reason he hadn’t formed any special relationships was partly due to his busy work schedule and partly due to a lack of emotional capacity. He didn’t know what would have happened if someone he truly liked had appeared.

But what use were all these hypotheses? Imaginations that didn’t become reality were useless. Shin Kwonjoo pushed aside the unproductive thoughts and let out an empty laugh. Just when the tightly closed door opened…

Click—

“Sunbae-nim.”

Seeing the uncontainable joy quickly spreading across his seemingly weary face, he couldn’t help but think silly, lovesick thoughts like, what else could be more important than this?

“I’m a little late.”

“Were you busy?”

He lightly embraced the approaching body, and a subtle scent of soap gently wafted over him. A multitude of emotions collided within him, but Shin Kwonjoo pretended to be indifferent and clicked his tongue softly. If he didn’t, he felt like he would kiss the other person and head straight to the bedroom.

“Dinner?”

“I ate.”

He took off his scarf and quickly scanned the entire house. Lights were on everywhere, making it bright, and the temperature was just right. Evidence that someone was living there. Unhidden satisfaction spread, but Shin Kwonjoo hid his expression and continued the conversation, pretending to be nonchalant.

“What did you eat?”

At the concern hidden within the blunt, short question, Ha Joyoon lowered his gaze and curved his lips into a smile.

“Various things. The housekeeper made a lot of delicious food.”

“I see.” Shin Kwonjoo nodded in satisfaction and asked, “What did you do all day?”

He took off his coat, still carrying the traces of the winter wind, and draped it over his arm as he fully entered the house. The warmth inside, distinctly different from the outside, enveloped his skin. Ha Joyoon, with a bright face, smiled shyly and led him to the living room.

“I was looking at photos.”

“Photos?”

“Shall I show you?”

The person walking ahead was so eager that his shoulders bounced. He seemed childlike, despite his age, excited at the mere mention of photos. Shin Kwonjoo’s voice, as he followed, held an unconscious hint of laughter. A natural atmosphere flowed between them, as if neither of them was aware of it.

“Don’t people usually say they missed me?”

“Come and see quickly.”

Looking at Joyoon fussing like a child, Shin Kwonjoo finally burst out laughing. He now knew that this man of few words showing him photos was the greatest affection he could express.

“You get so excited whenever we talk about photos.”

Arriving at the living room, papers, a laptop, and a camera scattered across a dark pink, furry rug came into view.

“What photos?”

The man tossed his coat carelessly onto the sofa and sat down on the rug, asking. Ha Joyoon, who had already settled down, quickly clicked the mouse a few times and turned the laptop monitor towards Shin Kwonjoo.

“These are the photos I took recently. The deadline for submissions is tomorrow, so I was choosing which ones to send.”

“Ah.”

With a short exclamation, Shin Kwonjoo recalled the deadline for the World Press Photo Contest. It was one of the most important and meaningful annual events for a photojournalist. Of course, the person next to him had no interest in submitting or winning.

“Have you chosen already?”

Ha Joyoon, looking at the monitor together, nodded.

“I didn’t know which ones to choose… so I narrowed it down to the ones I liked the most for now. Oh, you want to see them right away? You should wash up first.”

“It’s fine….”

Resting his chin on one hand, Shin Kwonjoo began to examine the photos with a serious demeanor. His gaze was sharp and discerning.

“Let me see.”

After watching for a while at the pace Ha Joyoon flipped through the photos, the man snatched the mouse as if annoyed and started manipulating it to his liking. The photos filling the screen were satisfying, making it worthwhile to have persuaded the stubborn man to submit his work. Joyoon quietly sat down next to him, watching the man’s profile as he became completely absorbed in the screen without even changing his clothes.

“Hmm….”

A noncommittal groan escaped his lips. His sharp, slanted eyes narrowed. He coughed softly and glanced sideways.

Location? Al-Bab. This one too? No, that photo is around Jibrin. Locals? Mixed with the militia. Mostly locals. The square is a mess. The Umayyad Mosque on the left was hit in an airstrike. The statistics reported by the CPJ and RSF are increasing. Has the data been released? They released this year’s data last week. A journalist from BFP News was also injured in this airstrike. You don’t have to go that far. I won’t…. That’s a noble mindset. This photo has a good story. I like that one too. Were there any photos you didn’t like? Haha….

He answered when asked. He also asked questions while answering. They conversed in serious voices, the conversation flowing naturally. Their dialogue was a blend of professional discussion between colleagues and intimate whispers between lovers, fulfilling and complete as if that moment was all there was.

At some point, a moderately warm palm touched the back of his hand resting on the floor. The large hand, moving little by little, eventually completely covered the back of his hand. Then, darker fingers intertwined tightly and repeatedly loosened their grip between the slightly parted white fingers.

Ha Joyoon looked down at Shin Kwonjoo’s casually moving fingers for a moment, then leaned his head gently against the man’s shoulder with a faint smile. A familiar scent wafted over him, and his heartbeat quickened. Soft wool tickled their hands. The questions continued for a while longer, and Ha Joyoon continued to answer, leaning against his shoulder. Every breath he took felt like a gift.

❄

—So, you’re not coming back to Korea?

At the tone filled with disappointment, Ha Joyoon scratched his cheek with an awkward expression, as if the other person were right in front of him.

He had gone grocery shopping, intending to prepare dinner for Shin Kwonjoo’s return from work. Just as he was getting confused about what to make with the unfamiliar ingredients, a call came. It was Ha Junghye.

“I have to go back at least once.”

—Are you planning to live there permanently?

“I still have time before my next assignment. And, Noona, I’m thinking about a lot of things.”

—Well, that’s good to hear. I was wondering what you were thinking.

“Haha.”

Playfulness quickly returned to his voice. Ha Joyoon chuckled emptily and lowered his gaze. Many issues stemming from the differences in their living environments suddenly surfaced in his subconscious. He wasn’t used to considering and worrying about external factors in a relationship, so the current situation felt unfamiliar.

However, he now understood, albeit imperfectly, that when people who have lived different lives meet and form a new relationship, and to strengthen that bond, they need to compromise, give up, or concede in certain areas.

[They have apples even in winter. Are they in good condition?]

[These days, it doesn’t matter what season it is. They came in this morning, so they’re in top condition.]

Holding his phone between his cheek and shoulder, Ha Joyoon picked through the apples with a confused look. They all looked the same to him. His decision to head towards the fruit stand had been impulsive. After wandering around the supermarket and realizing there was nothing he could cook, he’d decided to at least make a salad.

—Did you go to the hospital? Your classmate called the house. They said to make sure you contact them when you come back to Korea.

“The company recommended a place. I have the medical records from Korea too. I did visit a hospital briefly after arriving, but I’ll get a proper checkup when I go back to Korea.”

—When are you planning to come back?

“I’ll have to see how things go… I’ll be back soon.”

—Not this week, right?

“Not that soon…”

—Then next week?

“Why? Is something urgent? If there is, I can come back for a bit…”

He picked red apples recommended by the vendor and put them one by one into a paper bag. Meanwhile, there was no response from the other end of the line. Waiting for an answer, Ha Joyoon tilted his head and called out to Ha Junghye.

—Oh, no. It’s nothing like that, so you don’t have to come right away.

“What is it… Tell me if something’s wrong at home. If you don’t, I’m coming tomorrow.”

It was half a joke. But the following words made Ha Joyoon hold his breath.

—Actually… Taejung came yesterday.

“…Oh.”

One, two, three… eight. He had put in eight apples in total. A dark shadow flickered in his eyes as he looked at the apples rolling around in the paper bag. “I see,” he murmured, a reply addressed to no one in particular. He carefully folded the top of the half-open bag and headed to the checkout.

[How much is it?]

[10 dollars.]

Ha Joyoon paid the amount and stepped out of the store. Whoosh. The cold winter wind brushed past him indifferently. Yoon—ah. Yoon—ah? His sister’s voice rang in his ears. Forcing down a swallow in his parched throat, Ha Joyoon walked on, carrying the heavy bag. Ha Junghye, interpreting his silence in her own way, continued the conversation in a bright voice. Hey, I don’t know what you’re thinking, but…

—Taejung is doing well. His complexion is much better, and his expression is brighter. He didn’t even mention you, so don’t delude yourself into thinking he’s worried. Don’t be delusional.

“Haha…”

—He got promoted, too. He’s getting recognized at work, and Taejung is doing incredibly well. He’s become even more handsome. He said he’s coming back to Korea permanently next year. Even though he’s only here for a short while, everyone’s asking to be introduced to him.

“That’s good.”

—So, you just need to sort yourself out.

He was momentarily speechless. He finally understood why Ha Junghye had discouraged him from returning to Korea. Ha Joyoon smiled bitterly and lowered his gaze at the various assumptions that were probably filling her head. Only he knew the truth about what had happened to him. After a moment of hesitation, Ha Joyoon slowly opened his mouth.

“Noona.”

—Yes?

“Don’t worry. I’m okay now.”

—What— What…I….

“There’s someone I like.”

—Oh, oh…?

The silence was heavy with obvious bewilderment. A faint smile played on his lips. His innocent eyes stood at the crossroads of sadness and happiness.

“Actually, I came to the US to see him. I wanted to be with him…”

—What?!

A shocked voice rang out. Ha Joyoon, slightly frowning, walked to a taxi stand by the road. Several vehicles were lined up, waiting for passengers. He approached the first car in line, stated his destination, and got in. A hesitant voice followed.

—Is it that person from back then? …The one who came to the hospital….

He had thought that Ha Junghye might have guessed, from the strange look on her face when she told him every day that Shin Kwonjoo had visited the hospital after he left. The car slowly started moving. His gaze, tracing the scenery outside the window as it gradually receded, was calm.

“Yes.”

He paused briefly and continued, “I… I like him a lot.”

Words he hadn’t been able to say to the person himself flowed out uncontrollably, shamelessly, to someone completely unrelated. He had thought that his feelings might have faded with time during their separation, but that was a foolish thought. Just seeing his face, hearing his voice, and being intimate with him was overwhelming. Even though he couldn’t be sure that the traces of his old love hadn’t vanished like dust, the emotions of this moment were overwhelming.

—…That’s good.

His sister’s reply came after a long pause. Clutching the bag of apples tighter to his chest, Ha Joyoon nodded as if she were right in front of him. And he sent his well wishes for his former lover, now walking a completely different path, on the foreign wind.

“Please see how well Taejung is doing for me. And don’t mention me…”

When enough time passes and the stinging sensation disappears, then perhaps he could tell him directly. Until then, he was content to hear news of him this way.

—Taejung is smart, you know. He’s living his life well even without you telling him to. You just need to take care of yourself. Just you.

At her affectionate scolding, Ha Joyoon smiled faintly and cleared his constricted throat. The tightness in his chest gradually dissipated with each calm breath.

Like this, little by little, as time passed, the remaining pain would also weather away. And in the end, only beautiful memories would remain, allowing him to genuinely wish for the other person’s happiness. I hope you are happy wherever you are. Living different lives, in different places.

“I don’t know who’s the older sibling here…”

—I’d like to meet this person sometime. It was so hectic back then, I couldn’t even greet him properly.

“…You’ve met him before.”

—Well, I saw him. At the hospital back then….

“No.”

Unusually interrupting her, he continued, “My Sunbae. You must have seen him when he got your business card. You’re such a fool, Noona.”

—What?!