The next morning, Jihoon arrived at the gallery, eager to discuss post-exhibition plans with Haneul.

Haneul greeted him warmly, and they dived into work. Their collaboration continued, strengthening their bond.

As they worked, Jihoon realized his feelings for Haneul went beyond friendship. He couldn’t deny the spark between them.

But was Haneul interested?

And would Jihoon’s past with Jaemin threaten their budding connection? He can’t put his relationship with Haneul at risk yet.

As they continued working, Jihoon’s mind raced. Jaemin’s message had awakened a sense of unease.

What would happen next?

Jihoon tried to focus on the task, but his eyes kept drifting to Haneul. He couldn’t help but wonder if Haneul felt the same spark.

Their collaboration was seamless, like a well-choreographed dance.

But Jihoon’s feelings for Haneul went beyond professionalism. He couldn’t deny the flutter in his chest whenever Haneul smiled.

Haneul, oblivious to Jihoon’s thoughts, continued working.

His dedication and passion were inspiring.

As the day drew to a close, Jihoon realized he’d made progress. But Jaemin’s message lingered as a constant reminder.

“Let’s grab dinner, Haneul,” Jihoon suggested, needing a distraction.

Haneul agreed, and they walked to a nearby restaurant.

Over dinner, their conversation flowed easily. Jihoon found himself laughing and relaxing in Haneul’s presence. 

But as the night drew to a close, Jihoon’s anxiety resurfaced. He knew Jaemin wouldn’t stay silent for long.

As they parted ways, Jihoon felt a sense of unease.

What would Jaemin do next?

And how would Haneul fit into the chaos?

Jihoon’s phone buzzed again, confirming his fears.

A text from Jaemin:

“It’s him, right? The kiddo I met in the café. Was it him you’re getting close to? Now, you’re into young guys, huh?”

Jihoon’s eyes widened in alarm.

How did Jaemin know?

And what did he plan to do?

Jihoon’s grip on his phone tightened. He couldn’t let Jaemin hurt Haneul. But how could he protect him?

Panic set in as Jihoon’s mind raced. He couldn’t shake off the feeling of being watched.

Jihoon quickly typed a response, trying to downplay:

“What are you talking about, Jaemin?”

But Jaemin’s next message sent chills down Jihoon’s spine:

“Don’t play dumb. I saw the way you looked at him.”

Jihoon’s anxiety spiked. What had Jaemin seen?

And how far would he go?

Determined to protect Haneul, Jihoon made a decision. He couldn’t face Jaemin alone. Jihoon needed someone he could trust.

But who?

As he pondered his next move, Jihoon’s thoughts turned to Haneul.

Could he confide in him?

Or would it put Haneul in greater danger?