Chapter Text
Three months had passed since Anton and Wonbin got together. In such a short amount of time, things changed quite a bit. Wonbin now spent much more time at Anton’s apartment than his own, much to Sohee’s delight: he enjoyed having a spacious apartment all to himself.
Wonbin enrolled in a dance school and decided to quit his job for good two months ago. Which meant it was more convenient for him to stay over at Anton’s place.
Leaving the club after such a long time hadn’t been easy. Wonbin had to bid farewell to years of hard work and give Karina one last heartfelt hug, thanking her warmly for all the times she took care of him. During his last night, Sungchan cried. Wonbin couldn’t help but cry too, and they ended up sitting on the floor of the private room, sobbing together. Still, it was the best choice for Wonbin. Now that he was in a healthy, serious relationship, he no longer wanted to share his body with other men (even though Anton seemed understanding about his profession). No one could satisfy Wonbin better than Anton, and his job was a burdensome chore. All he craved at the end of the day was to return to his boyfriend’s arms. With Anton’s unwavering support : he felt like nothing was out of reach. So, Wonbin decided to put his focus on dancing, a passion he pursued from age three to eighteen. Despite a few years without practice, things seemed to go quite well for him. At least, that’s what his best friend and dance instructor, Shotaro, told him after every session.
Wonbin just finished his morning class. Still drenched in sweat, he grabbed the towel he brought with him and wiped his face as Shotaro approached him with a cheerful smile.
“You’re getting better and better, Bin-ah!” Shotaro beamed.
“Really?” Wonbin scratched the back of his head. “I still feel rusty.”
Shotaro shook his head and handed Wonbin a water bottle, which he eagerly drank from. Shotaro leaned against the wall, gazing at their reflections in the mirror as the others students went out of the room.
“I’m glad you joined my class,” Shotaro suddenly said, his eyes still on their reflections. Wonbin looked up to meet Shotaro’s gaze in the mirror. “Dancing together… I didn’t think it would happen again.”
A nostalgic smile spread across Wonbin’s face. It was true that his first dance partner had been Shotaro, ever since the Japanese boy moved to Seoul following his father’s job transfer.
“I feel like I’ve lost years of my life,” Wonbin admitted. “And I think I owe it all to Chanyoung. Without meeting him, I probably wouldn’t have been able to leave that hellhole.”
“He’s been good for you, and I’m happy for you,” Shotaro said, finally turning to look directly at Wonbin. “But don’t downplay your own accomplishments. You got out of there because of your own strength and determination. I’m so proud of you.”
Wonbin shrugged, a faint smile on his lips. Would he have left Daeho for good if he hadn’t met Anton? Probably not. But that wasn’t a question he wanted to dwell on. Wonbin believed it was possible to create an alternate world based on "what-ifs," but that wasn't something he wanted to explore. Thankfully, he landed in the best possible reality : far from his old job, aiming for a spot in Shotaro’s dance academy, and with the best boyfriend he could ever ask for.
“Thank you, hyung,” Wonbin said sincerely.
The older man answered with a bunny-smile which made Wonbin chuckle before glancing at the time. It was almost lunchtime! He was going to be late! Thanking Shotaro once again, who laughed at his hurriedness, Wonbin dashed to the locker room. He grabbed a clean towel and a change of clothes from his bag. After a quick shower, he slipped into more presentable attire. His hair was still slightly damp, and Anton would surely scold him for risking a cold. Damn it! He should have been more careful. He promised his boyfriend they’d have lunch together, and he was running late. Fortunately, even on foot, Anton’s office wasn’t that far from the dance studio.
After bidding Shotaro one final goodbye, Wonbin headed out. He walked for about fifteen minutes through the crowded streets which was unsurprising given his proximity to the business district. Some passersby gave him odd looks : it wasn’t every day you saw a young man running around with wet hair in the middle of Seoul. But that was Park Wonbin’s reality as he arrived, slightly out of breath, in front of the tremendous IG Tower.
Everything about the lobby screamed opulence. The numerous windows filled the space with natural light, the gray marble floors gleamed, and, of course, “IG” was emblazoned in gold letters behind the receptionist, who was chewing gum as she eyed Wonbin curiously.
“Do you have an appointment?” the middle-aged secretary asked nonchalantly, although accustomed to Wonbin’s impromptu visits.
“Y-Yes.” Wonbin came closer timidly. “With Mr. Lee.”
Mr. Lee. It was odd to name Anton as such when all he wanted to let out was a sweet ‘ Chanyoungie ’. But within these walls, Chanyoung was a professional boss who expertly managed an empire far too wide for someone so young.
The secretary rolled her eyes before typing something briefly on her computer, the sound of her keystrokes echoing in the unusually empty room (Wonbin assumed it was because most employees were on their lunch break).
“Indeed,” she said, her tone indifferent. “I suppose I don’t need to escort you. You know the way.”
Her remark made Wonbin blush, feeling called out. Was she aware of the nature of their relationship? Probably. Wonbin always came at unconventional times to visit Anton. And anyway, Anton already reassured him that he didn’t care if the whole world was to know. He was just proud to share his life with Wonbin, and that was all that mattered to him.
“Yes… T-Thank you.” Wonbin bowed slightly before heading to the elevator behind the reception desk.
By now, he knew the place like the back of his hand. Anton’s office was on the top floor. At this hour, Anton’s personal secretary was on break, so all Wonbin needed to do was knock on the large door to join his boyfriend.
As he stood in the elevator, Wonbin glanced at his reflection in the mirror. His hair was still damp, and his cheeks were flushed from his earlier interaction with the secretary. He tried to smooth down a few stray strands but knew it was a lost cause. Before he could think further about his appearance, the elevator announced its arrival at the top floor. Taking a deep breath, Wonbin approached the door and knocked three times.
He heard Anton’s voice from inside, inviting him in. He complied.
Inside the spacious office, Anton seemed to have just stood up. He practically trotted toward Wonbin, a wide grin on his face. Wonbin chuckled; with his sparkling eyes, Anton resembled an excited puppy greeting its owner.
“Hyung!” Anton beamed, standing in front of Wonbin before grabbing both his hands. He planted a quick kiss on his forehead.
“Chanyoungie,” Wonbin responded warmly. “Sorry I’m late. I left the dance studio later than expected.”
Anton chuckled and released one of Wonbin’s hands to playfully tug at a damp strand of his hair.
“I can see that,” he said softly. “Your hair is still wet, hyung. You should be more careful… You’ll catch a cold.”
“Sorry, Ton-ah. I’ll be more careful next time.”
Though Wonbin knew this situation would inevitably repeat itself, Anton seemed satisfied with his answer and simply smiled before pulling him into a hug. Wonbin laughed warmly against Anton’s chest, his head resting against his heart, listening to its steady beats.
“I missed you, hyung,” Anton murmured, only to be interrupted by the loud growl of his stomach.
“Sounds like someone’s hungry!” Wonbin teased.
“Hyuuung…” Anton whined. “I was trying to have a moment!”
“And we will, after lunch!” Wonbin countered, grabbing Anton’s hand and leading him to the sofa in the corner of the huge office.
In three months of a fresh relationship, that sofa witnessed quite a bit, but Wonbin wasn’t about to dwell on that now.
“I ordered japchae. I hope that’s okay for you?” Anton announced, lifting up a paper bag.
“Perfect. Thank you, baby,” Wonbin replied joyfully, placing a kiss on Anton’s cheek, which instantly turned bright red.
Wonbin took a seat on the sofa while Anton set out their meals in front of them before sitting beside him.
Between bites of japchae, Anton asked, “How was your morning?”
“Good,” Wonbin replied, “I had a talk with Shotaro before class, and he said I’m improving fast. He told me it’s pretty impressive for someone who’s only been back at it for two months.”
“That’s great, hyung! I knew you’d do well,” Anton said with another bite.
“Shotaro mentioned a professional certification that could allow me to skip traditional schooling and become a dance instructor myself,” Wonbin shared. “It’s designed for people like me who are switching careers. He said with my current progress, I shouldn’t have trouble getting it.”
Becoming a dancer was Wonbin’s dream, and Shotaro’s suggestion felt like a glimmer of hope. The path ahead would without a doubt be challenging, but Wonbin was ready to show the world he was able to do it.
“Really?” Anton’s face lit up. “I’m sure you’ll do well. From what I’ve seen, you’re really talented.”
“Thanks, Chanyoungie,” Wonbin said, blushing. “I’m thinking of enrolling in the next session. If they want me, I’ll have a nine-month internship at a dance school. Shotaro-hyung said he could take me under his wing. There’ll be some theoretical classes to catch up on, but it’ll mostly focus on practical work.”
“That’s amazing, hyung.” Anton encouraged him. “You’ve worked so hard. It’s going to pay off, I’m sure of it.”
Wonbin tried to hide his embarrassment by focusing on his food.
“And you? How was your morning?” Wonbin asked, shifting the topic.
“Nothing special, just the usual pile of work accumulating itself,” Anton sighed. “I’ve been feeling a bit overwhelmed since my dad moved back to the U.S. with my mom. But I guess he deserves it. He poured his life into this business, even at the expense of our family. I think he’s trying to make up for lost time with her.”
“They have such a beautiful relationship. Even after practically living apart their whole lives, your dad’s only wish was to be by your mom’s side. It feels like a romance novel!”
Anton chuckled softly at Wonbin’s words.
“You should’ve seen the bouquets of flowers he sent her every month,” Anton added.
Wonbin smiled and playfully tapped Anton on the nose.
“That’s why you’re such a romantic gentleman.”
“I guess I learned from the best,” Anton replied shyly.
Their laughter filled the room. Wonbin leaned in first to give Anton a peck. With a triumphant smile, he realized just how lucky he was to have someone as wonderful as Anton by his side.
Too soon, Anton’s hour long lunch break ended : he had to go back to his role as a charismatic boss. But not before the two lovers, after finishing their meals, shared a tender moment as Wonbin ended up perched on Anton’s lap, enjoying his gentle caresses and soft kisses.
“I can’t believe it’s already time to get back to work…” Anton murmured against Wonbin’s lips.
“Come on, Mr. Boss. Time to save the company with your genius,” Wonbin teased. “It wouldn’t look good for a man of your stature to prioritize his boyfriend over his work!”
“I’d trade all the workload in the world for one more minute with you,” Anton sighed, pouting slightly.
Wonbin laughed, reassuring him, “We’ll see each other tonight.”
“Really?!” Anton’s face brightened instantly.
“Yes. So work hard, and you’ll get a surprise.” Wonbin whispered before kissing Anton’s forehead and standing up.
The two exchanged one last hug as a goodbye, and Wonbin didn’t forget to leave a quick peck on Anton’s nose before leaving, making the younger man blush once again. Cute , Wonbin thought.
Outside of Anton’s office, Wonbin crossed paths with his personal secretary, greeting him with a polite bow before heading down to leave the building. Outside, he noticed the weather warmed considerably. Likely because March had just begun, showing the end of a harsh winter. While Wonbin walked toward Anton’s apartment he checked is gym bag to make sure the spare key the younger gave him was still in there.
Bingo! Wonbin thought when his fingers brushed against the cold metal. But his moment of triumph was cut short when he felt his body jolt backward as he collided with some passerby.
“Oh my god!” Wonbin exclaimed, “I’m so sorry, I was looking for something in my bag, and-”
His words trailed off when his eyes landed on the person he accidentally bumped into.
Three months. It had been three months since Wonbin last saw that face. Those hardened features, worn down by years of alcohol and drugs. A cold shiver ran down his spine as he instinctively took a step back, creating a protective distance between them.
“It’s been a while,” Daeho said, his voice rough.
Wonbin hadn’t missed this voice. In truth, nothing about Daeho had ever been worth missing. Neither the dark glint in his eyes or the predatory smirk currently on his face. Wonbin would have loved to live a lifetime without meeting him again. But Seoul was a surprisingly small city, and Daeho could lurk around any corner. Through a quick mindflash, Wonbin regretted not accepting Anton’s offer of having a bodyguard following him everyday.
“Bye,” Wonbin’s voice was firm as he turned on his heel, ready to escape.
He had to leave. Daeho was nothing more than a bad memory. As he quickened his pace, his heart hammered in his chest, nausea twisting in his stomach. But after only a step or two, a hand clamped down on his wrist. Wonbin felt the urge to scream, to turn around and alert one of the dozens of people surrounding them that this man was dangerous.
But no sound escaped him. Not a single cry. He only turned around, yanked by Daeho’s pull, and found himself face-to-face with his biggest nightmare.
“Let me go,” Wonbin said through his gritted teeth.
“You’re dating Anton,” Daeho cut straight to the point.
With a sharp tug, Wonbin managed to free his wrist from Daeho’s grip.
“Don’t touch me,” Wonbin said, his tone cold and venomous. “It’s none of your business.”
“So, it’s so true.” Daeho let out a low, bitter laugh. “You left the club, and now you’re living off your rich boyfriend. You should be thanking me, Bin-ah. If it weren’t for me, you would've never met him. Tell me, what does he give you to be his little bitch?”
Wonbin’s vision blurred after hearing those words. How dare he? Was there not an ounce of decency left in this man? Wonbin clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms probably leaving bruises. Then, summoning an unknown strength, Wonbin laughed : a cold, guttural sound came from the depths of his chest.
Placing a hand over his eyes, Wonbin tilted his head to laugh while his other hand clutched on his stomach. Daeho stared at him and for the first time, Wonbin felt no fear. Only a visceral hatred that seemed to consume him.
“I’m in love with Chanyoung: something I never was when I was with you.” Wonbin admitted, his voice sharp before continuing, “And you know what? Rome was raised by a bitch. Whores like me carry the dreams of men like you.”
Daeho’s eyes darkened, at any moment Wonbin knew he could unleash his fury.
“Go to hell,” Daeho spat.
“You first,” Wonbin fired back. “Go ahead. Try to lay a hand on me. You know what's at stake.”
“You won't act so fierce when he’ll dump you because you aren’t good enough for him,” Daeho snarled as he brushed past Wonbin, now behind him. “Don’t forget, Bin-ah. You’re just a low-life whore. Sluts like you always get thrown away.”
“And dogs like you die alone,” Wonbin retorted, but Daeho was already several steps away, swallowed by the crowd of passersby.
Wonbin stood frozen for a few moments, lost in thought and trembling slightly.
Damn it. He realized after a while. It’s raining.
–
It was 8P.M when the door of Anton’s apartment slammed shut for the second time that day. Wonbin was sitting on the large sofa when heard his boyfriend grumble softly as he removed his coat. Anton should be exhausted after such a long day; Wonbin didn’t hold it against him.
The older man stared blankly at the sleek and new TV in front of him. It had been turned off for hours, yet he couldn’t seem to look away. Wonbin hadn’t taken his eyes off it for hours.
Not since he ran into Daeho.
Wonbin was cold. The chill clung to him for hours, like a second skin he couldn’t get rid of. Then, the flashes. Daeho towering him. Daeho hitting him. Daeho yelling at him. Memories of the last three years played before his eyes like a film he couldn’t stop, as if his mind was forcing him to watch something he desperately wanted to forget.
“Hyung? Are you okay?” Anton’s voice broke through his thoughts, the younger man now standing in front of him.
Oh, Wonbin thought, I didn’t notice him.
“I ran into Daeho,” Wonbin admitted.
Why would he hide it? At worst, nothing bad happened. At best, it reminded him of the harsh reality.
“What…?” Anton reached out, cupping Wonbin’s face in his hands. “Did he hurt you?”
Wonbin shook his head. Aside from the usual insults nothing bad happened. And even though that alone was already too much to handle, Wonbin was thankful it didn't end up more violently.
“Hyung… Did he say something? Do you want to talk about it?” Anton asked gently.
Did Wonbin want to talk to Anton about it? He wasn’t sure. But if he had to tell someone, it would be him. Closing his eyes, Wonbin took a deep breath.
“Nothing out of the ordinary,” he confessed. “The street was crowded; I wasn’t in any real danger. He cursed. I cursed back. Then I came home.”
In one swift but measured motion, Anton pulled Wonbin into his arms. The embrace was protective and reassuring, exactly what the older man needed. Wonbin realized he felt far less cold now that Anton’s warm palms touched his face.
Perhaps the key was right there, in Anton’s arms.
“You are so strong, hyung. I’m sorry I couldn’t do anything, but I’m proud you stood up for yourself.” Anton pulled back just enough to rest his forehead against Wonbin’s. “You’re worth so much more than his words. You’re incredible."
“Chanyoung…” Wonbin’s voice trembled; he was on the verge of tears.
In every breath Anton took was the solution. As if his very presence could heal every wound, mend every scar. Closing his eyes again, Wonbin let the realization sink in. He was in love. He’d even admitted it to Daeho earlier, almost instinctively. Like fire burns, like water drowns, or like one stumbles and falls… Park Wonbin fell in love with Lee Anton just as naturally as it was surprising.
“Hyung?” Anton’s voice broke through again, concern evident as he noticed Wonbin’s closed eyes.
Wonbin opened them slowly, meeting Anton’s gaze. He deserved to know. It wasn’t fair, not after the younger man spent the last three months shouting his love openly while Wonbin struggled to find the words to put on what he was feeling all along. But now, after running into Daeho and remembering the life he left behind, there was no doubt in his mind. He wouldn’t trade his life for nothing in this world.
“I’m in love with you,” Wonbin confessed, looking straight into Anton’s eyes. “I love you. I’m sorry I didn’t say it sooner.”
Anton blinked a few times before tears filled his round eyes. Wonbin reached up to wipe away a single tear that slipped down Anton’s cheek.
“Don’t cry, baby,” Wonbin whispered.
“I’m not sad…” Anton replied softly. “I’m just grateful to have you by my side.”
“I’m the one who’s grateful,” Wonbin’s voice was steady now. “I told him that I’m crazy about you. He was furious. And honestly, I don’t care. All I want is to be by your side.”
“I’m glad,” Anton said with a smile. “And I promise I’ll do everything I can to make you happy as long as you let me.” He took a deep breath. “Hyung, I even want you to meet my family. I’m not afraid of the future.”
Wonbin stared at Anton for a long moment. Maybe meeting his family wasn’t in his immediate plans, but someday… Wonbin could picture it: a big family dinner in New Jersey, Anton’s little brother on his right, Anton on his left, sitting across from Yoonsang and his wife. It didn’t scare him as long as Anton was right here.
“Okay,” Wonbin nodded. “Someday, I’ll meet your parents. And you’ll meet my mother.”
“It would be an honor,” Anton whispered.
Then, they kissed. Full of love and affection. A kiss sealing the next step in their relationship, something deeper, more serious, and infinitely beautiful.
As Anton gently laid Wonbin’s frail frame on the bed, Wonbin realized there was no other place he wanted to be than in his boyfriend’s arms. Anton could do whatever he wanted with him. Even blindfolded, Wonbin would follow him to the ends of the world if that’s what the younger man wanted.
“I love you,” Anton murmured with the first thrust after their long make-out session.
“I love you, too. More than anything,” Wonbin moaned in response.