Part 11

The soft chime of the bookstore door rang out, pulling Longtai's attention as another customer stepped inside. He greeted them with his usual polite smile, his voice calm and steady, though his mind wasn't entirely in the moment. His phone, tucked in the pocket of his apron, buzzed again-its vibration a subtle reminder of the ongoing conversation he'd been juggling all day.

When there was a lull in the activity, Longtai reached for his phone and glanced at the screen.

Yok: Your shift's almost over, right? I'm coming to get you.

Longtai felt a familiar warmth bloom in his chest, a sensation he still wasn't quite used to. His fingers moved quickly over the screen, typing back before he could second-guess himself.

Longtai: Where are we going?

The reply came almost instantly, as if Yok had been waiting for him to text back.

Yok: Just be ready.

Longtai sighed softly, his lips quirking into the faintest smile. He slid the phone back into his pocket, doing his best to ignore the small flutter of anticipation stirring in his chest. It was strange how easily Yok managed to weave his way into Longtai's day-through texts, unexpected calls, and moments like these, where he seemed to pop into Longtai's life without warning or explanation.

It had been a week now since they'd fallen into this rhythm, this casual exchange of messages and photos. Longtai had started it, surprisingly, with the impulsive cat photo. Since then, their conversations had become an odd but comforting mix of Yok's playful silliness and Longtai's quiet, thoughtful responses.

Longtai had found himself sharing more than he ever thought he would. Photos he took for his photography project-snapshots of the world through his eyes-were sent to Yok with little captions. Sometimes, Yok would reply with something ridiculous, like claiming one photo of an empty park bench looked "too dramatic, like the bench has feelings." Other times, he'd share his own creations, pictures of the graffiti he painted on walls across the city, bursting with colors and life.

Longtai didn't know what to make of this strange connection they were building, but he found himself looking forward to Yok's messages. And now, the thought of Yok waiting for him outside, ready to whisk him away on some unplanned adventure, made the corners of Longtai's mouth twitch upward again.

Shaking his head slightly, Longtai pushed the thoughts aside and refocused on the task at hand. There were still customers to assist, books to organize, and time to pass before his shift ended. But even as he worked, his mind kept drifting to the moment he'd walk out of the bookstore, to the person who'd be waiting for him just beyond the door.

Longtai stood near the counter, his voice calm and measured as he explained the closing routine to the new employee. He glanced at the clock, his shift almost over, when the door chime rang out again. He didn't bother looking up at first, assuming it was another customer.

"Let's go, Longtai!"

The familiar voice snapped his attention to the doorway, and there stood Yok, radiating his usual uncontainable energy. Longtai blinked, his carefully composed exterior faltering for a moment. Yok didn't wait for an answer. Before Longtai could utter a word of protest, Yok strode over, grabbed his hand, and tugged him toward the door with a confidence that left no room for resistance.

"Wait, Yok-" Longtai started, his voice catching as his heart skipped a beat. He wasn't used to being pulled into someone else's orbit so easily, so casually.

But Yok didn't let go, didn't stop. Longtai could feel the warmth of his grip, firm yet gentle, and something in that touch silenced his objections. The curiosity that flickered in his chest overpowered the instinct to retreat.

They emerged into the evening air, the sun dipping low and casting golden hues over the parking lot. Longtai followed Yok toward a sleek black motorcycle, its polished surface gleaming under the fading light. Yok stopped beside it, turning to Longtai with an expression of pure enthusiasm.

"Here we go!" Yok said, tossing a helmet into Longtai's hands as if this was the most natural thing in the world. "Put this on."

Longtai stared at the helmet for a second, his fingers brushing over its surface. His heart was racing-not from fear of the bike, but from the sheer audacity of Yok. Longtai was methodical, cautious, used to keeping people at arm's length. Yet here was Yok, barreling through his walls like they didn't exist.

Sliding the helmet on, Longtai felt a sense of security that wasn't entirely due to the snug fit. He glanced at Yok, who was watching him with a lopsided grin.

"Looks good on you," Yok teased, his voice warm and light.

Longtai ducked his head slightly, feeling a flush creep up his neck. There was something about Yok's ease, his unfiltered sincerity, that made Longtai feel seen in a way he wasn't used to.

"Where's your helmet?" Longtai asked, trying to redirect his swirling thoughts.

Yok shrugged as he swung a leg over the motorcycle. "I don't need one. Your safety's more important."

Longtai's chest tightened, and his heart thudded louder than he cared to admit. It wasn't just the words-it was the way Yok said them, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. How did Yok have this ability to make him feel so completely unguarded?

"Let's go, or we're gonna be late," Yok added, patting the seat behind him.

Longtai hesitated for only a moment before climbing on, the rush of nerves battling with something far softer. He gripped Yok's shoulder for balance, his fingers brushing against the smooth leather of his jacket.

"Hold on tight!" Yok called over his shoulder, a hint of mischief in his voice.

The engine roared to life, and before Longtai could process the words, the bike jolted forward, the world around them blurring into motion. The wind rushed past, tugging at his clothes, his hair. He tightened his grip instinctively, his arms wrapping securely around Yok's waist.

The warmth radiating from Yok's back was impossible to ignore. Longtai felt his nerves begin to melt away, replaced by an unexpected exhilaration. It wasn't just the speed or the thrill of the ride-it was this moment, shared with someone who had somehow broken through his quiet, carefully guarded world.

"Where are we going?" he asked, his voice raised to compete with the wind.

Yok glanced back briefly, his grin wide and unapologetic. "Somewhere special."

Longtai didn't know what that meant, but something in Yok's voice made him trust it. The city lights began to dot the horizon, twinkling against the deepening sky. As the wind whipped around them and the engine hummed beneath them, Longtai felt a strange sense of freedom.

He leaned closer, his head just inches from Yok's shoulder, and allowed himself to smile. His heart was still racing, but it wasn't from fear or uncertainty anymore. It was from the thrill of the unknown, of stepping into a world that was unpredictable and alive.

And maybe, just maybe, it was from the way Yok's laughter echoed through the evening, pulling Longtai further into something he wasn't sure he wanted to escape.

--

Yok pulled into a quaint little art gallery nestled at the edge of a sprawling garden that led right up to the sea. The sun was just beginning to set, casting a golden hue over everything. The gallery's whitewashed walls were adorned with vibrant pieces of art, and the soft hum of music floated through the air. A small café tucked in the corner offered a cozy atmosphere, complete with an inviting smell of freshly brewed coffee.

As Longtai stepped off the motorcycle, he glanced around in awe. The gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore mingled with the laughter of patrons enjoying their time in the café. "What is this place?" he asked, his voice tinged with wonder.

Yok grinned widely, clearly pleased with Longtai's reaction. "It's my special place. I come here to unwind and find inspiration. I've only ever brought Emma here with me, and now you."

Longtai felt a rush of warmth at Yok's words, an unfamiliar flutter of butterflies taking flight in his stomach. "Really?" he asked, a hint of disbelief in his tone as he scanned the space. The ambiance was both calming and invigorating, and he could feel his shoulders relaxing for the first time that day.

Yok led him to a small table outside, where two chairs were arranged perfectly to enjoy the view. The garden bloomed with colorful flowers, and beyond that, the sea sparkled under the evening sun. Longtai took a seat next to Yok, feeling the comfort of his presence beside him.

"What do you want to drink?" Yok asked, looking over the menu that hung on the wall.

"I think I'll have a caramel latte," Longtai replied, his eyes still wandering around the place, captivated by the beauty of it all.

Yok nodded, turning to the person behind the counter. "I'll take a bubble tea, please, and a caramel latte for him with extra sugar," he said, his voice bright and cheerful. The barista nodded and moved to prepare their drinks.

Longtai turned to Yok, surprised at how easily he had ordered for him. "You know I like caramel lattes?" he asked, his brow slightly furrowed.

Yok chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Well, you do have that sweet tooth look about you." His grin widened as he winked, causing Longtai's cheeks to flush.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Longtai protested lightly, but he couldn't help but smile at Yok's playful demeanor.

"It means you look like you appreciate the finer things in life," Yok replied, a teasing glint in his eyes. "I just figured you'd like something sweet." He paused, his expression softening. "I'm not a coffee person myself; it always tastes too bitter for me."

Longtai blinked in surprise, his curiosity piqued. "How do you know that?" he asked, genuinely puzzled.

"Your eyes are very expressive," Yok said simply, shrugging as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "You wear your heart on your sleeve, you know? I can read you like a book."

"No one's ever said my eyes were expressive," Longtai admitted quietly, a hint of vulnerability creeping into his voice. "Most people just don't understand me."

Yok leaned forward, his eyes serious yet warm. "I'm not just 'some people,' Longtai. I see you. And I want to understand you."

Longtai felt a flutter of emotions inside him, a rush of warmth that made his heart race. He had never had someone express such interest in him before. It was exhilarating and frightening all at once.

Just then, the barista returned with their drinks, placing them on the table with a smile. "Here you go! Enjoy!"

"Thanks!" Yok said, flashing a grin that lit up his face, and Longtai couldn't help but admire how effortlessly friendly Yok was with everyone around him.

After the barista left, Yok took a sip of his bubble tea and leaned back in his chair, looking content. "So, what do you think of the place? Pretty special, right?"

Longtai nodded, still feeling overwhelmed by the beauty around him. "It's amazing. I can't believe I've never been here before."

"Now you know my secret," Yok said, his expression playful again. "I'm glad I got to share it with you."

Longtai smiled softly, feeling a warmth spread through him at the thought of being included in Yok's cherished spot. As they sipped their drinks, they shared little stories and jokes, the atmosphere around them feeling more intimate by the minute.

As the sun continued to set, casting a brilliant palette of colors in the sky, Longtai realized he was falling into something unfamiliar with Yok-something beautiful yet terrifying. But for now, in this moment, he was just happy to be here, sharing this special place with someone who truly saw him.

After finishing their drinks, Yok stood up, a bright smile lighting up his face as he motioned for Longtai to follow him to the gallery side of the café. The transition from the warm, cozy atmosphere of the café to the vibrant art-filled gallery was like stepping into a different world. The walls were lined with various artworks, each piece inviting viewers into its unique narrative. The space was lit softly, allowing the colors of the paintings to pop against the stark white walls.

Longtai's eyes widened in fascination as he stepped into the gallery, the myriad of colors and styles overwhelming his senses in the best way possible. He wandered from painting to painting, absorbing the energy of each piece. His heart raced with excitement as he turned to Yok, a gleam of curiosity in his eyes. "Can I take photos here?" he asked, looking hopeful.

"Of course!" Yok replied enthusiastically, his own eyes lighting up at the prospect. "I'd love to see how you capture all of this."

With a nod, Longtai lifted his camera, feeling that familiar rush of adrenaline wash over him. Behind the lens, he transformed into someone entirely different-a photographer completely immersed in his craft. Yok watched him with rapt attention, noting the way Longtai's focused expression shifted from one painting to another.

Every movement Longtai made seemed deliberate and artful, his hands steady as he framed the perfect shot. He'd tilt his head slightly, squinting through the lens to catch the nuances of light and shadow. His almond-shaped eyes sparkled with intensity, and his lips formed a soft smile as he captured each moment. Yok could see the passion radiating from him; it was like Longtai became a part of the art he was photographing.

Yok felt a stirring within him, an impulse to create something beautiful, too. He imagined Longtai on a canvas-how he would capture the way Longtai's fingers danced over the camera, how his brows furrowed in concentration, and how that genuine smile lit up his face. Every small movement seemed to tell a story, and Yok wanted to paint that story. He wanted to express through his art the beauty he saw in Longtai's creative spirit.

As Longtai finished taking his shots, he turned around to find Yok standing in front of an oil painting, deep in thought. The piece was a swirling mass of blues and greens, depicting a tumultuous sea under a stormy sky. The artist had masterfully blended colors to convey the power of nature, the waves crashing against rocky cliffs. Yok's expression was one of pure admiration; he seemed lost in the depths of the painting, smiling softly as he took it all in.

The sunlight filtering in from the gallery's large windows illuminated Yok's tall figure, casting a warm glow around him. His white shirt contrasted beautifully with the rich colors of the artwork, and the side mole on his chin added an irresistible charm to his already captivating appearance. Longtai felt a rush of warmth at the sight of him-he looked so stunningly alive against the backdrop of the painting, a living piece of art in his own right.

In a moment of impulse, Longtai raised his camera and focused the lens on Yok. Behind the lens, everything became clearer-the soft play of light on Yok's features, the way his eyes sparkled with joy, and the gentle curve of his lips. Longtai pressed the shutter, capturing not just a moment, but an essence. There was something undeniably beautiful about Yok standing there, caught in the moment of appreciation.

He snapped another shot, feeling a strange compulsion to keep capturing Yok's essence. Every click of the shutter revealed more depth to Yok than he'd ever seen before-how his smile transformed his face, how his focused gaze revealed the passion within him. It was as if, behind the camera, Longtai could see the colors of Yok's soul.

Suddenly, Yok turned and caught Longtai in the act, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Caught you sneaking a photo of me!" he teased, his tone light and playful.

Longtai felt a wave of embarrassment wash over him, his cheeks flushing a deep shade of crimson. He stumbled over his words, searching for a coherent excuse. "I, um, just... I didn't mean to!" he stuttered, his nervousness evident.

Yok leaned closer, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Not fair if you're the only one taking pictures. I want a photo of you too!" His playful tone made Longtai's heart race.

"Me?" Longtai replied, incredulity lacing his voice. "Why would you want that?"

Yok shook his head, an endearing smile still lingering on his lips. "I'd rather draw your face instead," he said, his tone suddenly earnest. "There's something about you that I really want to capture."

Longtai's breath hitched at Yok's words, his heart fluttering wildly. "You want to draw me?" he asked, feeling bashful and flattered all at once.

Yok nodded, his eyes sparkling. "Yeah, I think it would be interesting to see how I can portray you on canvas," he said, clearly enjoying the effect his words had on Longtai.

"I-uh, I don't know if I'd make a good subject," Longtai said, his voice barely above a whisper. His cheeks flushed deeper, and he felt a mix of excitement and shyness.

"But I think you would," Yok insisted, his tone sincere. "You have this... depth in your eyes that's really captivating."

Longtai met Yok's gaze, feeling vulnerable yet seen in a way he had never experienced before. He shifted slightly, trying to hide his embarrassment. "I just don't know if I'm anything special," he admitted quietly.

Yok stepped closer, lowering his voice. "You are special, Longtai. You just don't realize it yet."

In that moment, Longtai felt the weight of Yok's words settling in his chest. It was a truth he hadn't allowed himself to believe before. The way Yok looked at him, with such intensity and appreciation, ignited something deep within him-something that left him wanting to explore this connection further.

"Let me show you," Yok said softly, and Longtai nodded, feeling a spark of excitement mixed with uncertainty. As they stood close together in the gallery, surrounded by art and beauty, both felt the shift in the air-a delicate balance of tension and promise, a moment that lingered between them, waiting to be explored.

--

The night air was crisp as Yok and Longtai made their way back, the moon illuminating their path. Longtai, still buzzing from their earlier conversation, found himself looking forward to what was to come. He was both excited and nervous about being drawn by Yok, feeling a sense of connection with him that was new and thrilling.

Yok glanced back at Longtai, his heart racing as he reached for the helmet. "Here, let me help you," he said, lifting it to Longtai's head.

"I can do it myself," Longtai replied, trying to sound casual as he reached for the helmet.

Yok chuckled softly, a hint of affection in his eyes. "I'm just used to doing this for you now," he said, his gaze lingering a moment too long. There was a warmth in his chest as he watched Longtai fumble slightly, his fingers brushing against the helmet. He felt a rush of exhilaration, an eagerness to protect this person he was growing closer to.

Just then, a figure emerged from the shadows, catching Yok's attention. The man stepped forward, a surprised expression crossing his face as he took in the sight of Longtai. "Long!" he called out, grinning widely as he approached.

Longtai's eyes widened in shock, recognition dawning on his face. "Ren?" he responded, blinking rapidly as if trying to comprehend this unexpected encounter.

The person-Ren-was tall with a lean build, his hair styled in a carefree, tousled manner. He wore a fitted black jacket over a white T-shirt, his jeans slightly distressed. His smile was warm, yet there was an edge of mischief in his demeanor that set Yok on alert.

"Wow, it's been ages!" Ren exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "What are you doing here? You didn't come to the high school party. Everyone was asking about you!"

Longtai's expression shifted, a hint of discomfort creeping into his features. He fidgeted slightly, his hands finding a new home in his pockets as he looked down. "Oh, I... I was busy," he stammered, a nervous laugh escaping his lips.

Ren's smile faltered for a moment, then returned with a teasing lilt. "Busy? I thought you were scared to show your face in public. You know how it is," he said, his tone mockingly playful.

Longtai's discomfort deepened, his gaze darting towards Yok, searching for a semblance of support. "I-" he started, but Ren cut him off, continuing to taunt him. "And who's this? You've got someone looking after you now? How cute."

Yok could sense the tension in the air, feeling the prickling heat rising in Longtai's cheeks. He didn't like the way Ren's words hung heavy in the air, making Longtai visibly uncomfortable. Protective instincts kicked in, and Yok stepped slightly forward, positioning himself in front of Longtai as if to shield him.

"Actually, we're running late," Yok said, his voice firm as he looked Ren directly in the eyes. He didn't care for the banter-he could see how it affected Longtai. "We need to go."

Ren raised an eyebrow, glancing between Yok and Longtai. "Oh, come on. Just a quick catch-up?"

Longtai shifted uneasily, fidgeting with his hands. Yok could feel Longtai's tension radiating from behind him, and it only fueled his protective nature. He wrapped a comforting arm around Longtai's shoulders, subtly guiding him away from Ren.

"We really have to go," Yok repeated, maintaining eye contact with Ren, his expression hardening slightly. "It was nice to see you." He turned, grabbing Longtai's hand and starting to walk away, not wanting to give Ren another chance to comment.

Longtai was quiet, his steps hesitant as he let Yok lead him away. He didn't want to admit how much Ren's words had unsettled him. "I'm sorry," he finally said, glancing at Yok, a frown tugging at his lips. "I didn't mean for that to happen."

Yok turned to him, his expression softening. "Are you okay?" he asked gently, concern etched on his features.

"Yeah, I'm fine," Longtai replied quickly, though the unease still lingered in his voice. They walked a few more steps before Longtai abruptly halted, his face shifting from tension to something resembling frustration.

"I think I'll just take a cab home," he said, a sudden determination in his voice.

"What?" Yok replied, confusion clouding his brow. "No, I can drop you off."

Longtai shook his head firmly. "No, really. I can go by myself." There was a sudden sharpness in his tone, something that startled Yok.

Yok stepped closer, trying to gauge Longtai's mood. "But I want to make sure you get home safe," he said, his brow furrowing in concern.

Longtai looked away, his expression hardening, his gaze fixed on the pavement. "I really can't," he insisted, and Yok sensed a change in the atmosphere-a barrier going up between them. "I'm sorry, but I just need to go."

Before Yok could respond, Longtai raised his hand, signaling for a cab. The yellow cab pulled over, and Longtai opened the door, a sense of urgency in his movements. He instructed the driver as he slid into the backseat.

"Longtai, wait!" Yok called out, stepping forward, his heart racing. But Longtai didn't turn back. Instead, he waved goodbye without looking and closed the door, isolating Yok outside.

As the cab pulled away, Yok stood frozen in place, his mind racing to comprehend what had just transpired. The night felt colder, the warmth of their earlier conversation dissipating into the chilly air. Longtai's sudden shift was perplexing, leaving Yok with a mix of concern and frustration.

He couldn't shake the image of Longtai's discomfort from his mind. The way he fidgeted, the nervousness in his voice-it all lingered in the air. Yok felt a tightening in his chest, a sense of urgency to reach out, to understand.

"Why didn't I just say something?" he muttered to himself, frustration boiling beneath the surface. "What just happened?" He took a deep breath, his thoughts swirling like a storm inside him.

As the cab disappeared down the road, Yok was left standing alone, grappling with feelings he couldn't quite articulate, the unease lingering like a shadow in the moonlit night.

~

Author's note :

"I feel like Yok wouldn't be a coffee person-He strikes me more as the type to prefer tea or something lighter. Meanwhile, Longtai? Oh, 100% sweet tooth. It fits his soft, gentle nature so well. I can totally see him sneaking an extra dessert and trying (but failing) to deny it. Just little details like this make writing them so much fun!"

What do you think? Vote and comment :)

Love Yoon ~