Meanwhile, Haneul couldn’t explain why, but Jihoon’s presence made him feel at ease since they met. Their collaboration had become a highlight of his day.

As they worked together, Haneul noticed how Jihoon’s eyes lit up when discussing art. He admired Jihoon’s passion, creativity, and kindness.

One moment stood out – Haneul's genuine smile when Jihoon praised his work. Haneul’s heart skipped a beat.

Haneul tried to brush off the feeling, focusing on their professional relationship. But he couldn't deny the flutter in his chest whenever Jihoon was near.

“Is this more than appreciation? Am I drawn to Mr. Kim?” Haneul wondered.

“Should I confess my feelings?” he whispered, Haneul rolled onto his bed, burying his face in the pillow.

“Waah!! I don't know what to do anymore!”

Tears burst forth at the thought of Jihoon's potential rejection. But what if he feels the same? Is it worth the risk?

Haneul made a decision. He texted Jihoon:

“Mr. Kim, are you free this Saturday? Want to come over for drinks? My treat!”

He took a deep breath and sent it.

A minute later, his phone buzzed.

Jihoon's response: "Sure, I'll drive over. See you."

Haneul's heart sank into Jihoon's words. He was smitten. Overwhelmed, Haneul eventually drifted off to sleep.

Jihoon arrived at Haneul’s cozy apartment, feeling relaxed.

“Hey, Haneul, thanks for inviting me over,” Jihoon said, handing Haneul a bottle of wine.

Haneul smiled warmly. “Anytime, Mr. Kim. Let’s unwind.”

As they poured drinks and sat on the couch, Haneul’s nervous excitement grew.

Jihoon chatted about art and gallery plans, oblivious to Haneul’s intentions. Haneul listened attentively, his heart pounding.

To calm himself, Haneul poured a glass of wine and sipped. But as Jihoon continued talking, Haneul’s anxiety grew.

He poured another glass and another. His low tolerance didn’t help. As the wine took effect, Haneul’s words slurred.

“Mr. Kim… I… have something to say…”

Jihoon's concerned eyes met Haneul’s.

“Haneul, maybe slow down?”

But Haneul pressed on, determination fueled by wine:

“I… like you, Mr. Kim… a lot…”

Jihoon’s expression softened.

“Haneul, I—”

But Haneul’s words tumbled out in a drunken rush:

“I mean, you’re amazing, Mr. Kim… your work, your heart…your face… I wanna be close to you…”

Jihoon’s face drew near, his voice gentle:

“Haneul, I’m flattered… but maybe we should talk when you’re sober?”

Haneul’s eyes drooped, his head nodding. Jihoon helped Haneul to the couch, concern etched on his face.

“Let’s get you comfortable,” Jihoon whispered.

As Haneul settled in, Jihoon fetched a blanket and covered him. Haneul’s eyes fluttered open, his gaze locking onto Jihoon.

“Mr. Kim… sorry,” Haneul slurred, his voice barely audible.

Jihoon smiled warmly. “No need to apologize. Just rest.”

Haneul’s eyes closed, his breathing slowing. Jihoon sat beside him, gently stroking his hair.

As the night wore on, Jihoon’s feelings for Haneul deepened. He realized his own emotions, long suppressed.

Haneul’s drunken mumblings turned into whispers.

“Mr. Kim… my heart beats for you… like art in my soul…”

Jihoon’s eyes warmed his own emotions swelling. Haneul’s hand reached out, grasping Jihoon’s.

“Stay with me… don’t let go…”

Jihoon’s fingers intertwined with Haneul’s, a spark of connection. As Haneul’s whispers faded into sleep, Jihoon’s heart pounded.

Jihoon exhaled slowly,

“Hah... you really have the skill to drive a person crazy, Haneul.” his voice was laced with sarcasm, and a hint of amusement, a wry smile spreading across his face.

He felt the weight of Haneul’s words, the sincerity. Jihoon’s gaze traced Haneul’s peaceful face and let him sleep.