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Chapter Text

Felix jolted awake, gasping for air as his heart pounded erratically in his chest. Tears blurred his vision as he struggled to catch his breath, his body trembling with the aftershocks of the nightmare. He wiped at his face frantically, but the tears kept coming, mixing with the sweat dampening his hair. It took him a few moments to pull himself together, to remind himself that he was safe, that it wasn't real. The dream had been so vivid, too vivid, that it lingered in his mind like a lingering shadow.

He sat up in bed, staring blankly at the walls of his room as he tried to steady his breathing. Breathe, Felix. Just breathe, he told himself. His hands shook slightly as he ran them through his messy hair. It wasn't the first time this had happened. He'd woken up from this kind of nightmare before, but it had been weeks since the last episode. Still, the fear that gripped him was like an old companion, familiar but unwelcome.

Taking a deep breath, Felix swung his legs over the edge of the bed and stood up. His bare feet met the cold floor, the chill grounding him as he made his way toward the window. He parted the curtains slightly and looked out at the early morning sky. The first rays of sunlight were just starting to paint the horizon in shades of gold and pink. The sky, calm and serene, contrasted sharply with the chaos of his thoughts. He let out a long, shaky breath. How did we get here?

He already knew the answer to that question. He had known it for a while now. It all started two years ago.

Two years ago.

Felix's body ached, his head throbbed with the remnants of the beating he had taken. He was tied to a chair, blood dripping down from a gash above his right eye. His left eye was swollen shut, but he didn't need to see perfectly to know he was in trouble. His entire body was sore from the violence, from the blows that had come in fast, relentless bursts.

"Hang in there, boss. We're almost there," Seungmin's voice crackled in his earpiece, steady despite the chaos surrounding them.

Felix barely managed a snarl, his voice hoarse from the blood in his throat. "That's all you got?" he growled, his head swimming as he tried to stay conscious.

The masked man in front of him sneered, then swung a fist into Felix's jaw, sending him reeling back in the chair. Pain exploded in his skull, but he didn't have time to dwell on it.

"Boss, don't get yourself killed before we get there!" Han's voice was sharp, urgent.

Felix's vision blurred, but he spat blood at his attacker, defiance still burning in his chest despite the overwhelming odds. The man took a step back, momentarily stunned, but Felix knew this was just the calm before the storm. He needed to buy time. He needed to hold on.

"I'm going to ask you one more time," the man hissed, his breath sour behind the mask. "How did you find this location?"

Felix was about to speak, to give them the answer they wanted but before he could, the door to the room flew open. Another masked man stepped inside, whispering to the first. They exchanged a brief, quiet conversation, then turned their attention to Felix.

A cold dread settled in his gut, but then the two men walked out, leaving him alone. Felix's heart thudded in his chest. This was it. This was his chance.

"Now's your chance," he whispered into his earpiece, his fingers fumbling with the ropes that bound him.

"Got it. We're touching down now. Be ready," Chan's calm voice responded, and Felix's heart lifted just a little.

He wiggled in his seat, trying to loosen the ropes around his wrists. The chair creaked under his movements, but Felix didn't stop. He rocked back and forth, every movement a calculated risk. Then, with a loud crash, he toppled to the side. Pain shot through his ribs, but he ignored it, focusing on the task at hand.

The door was still ajar, but no one had come back. He quickly lifted his right foot to his face, using his chin to click a small hidden compartment open. A small, sharp knife popped out, and he grabbed it with his teeth, carefully maneuvering it into his hands. He glanced up, watching the door as he began cutting through the ropes binding his wrists.

Just then, an explosion rocked the building, sending a shockwave through the room. Felix's heart skipped a beat, but he didn't waste a second. He cut faster, desperation driving him. The explosion had been the signal.

Finally, the ropes were severed. Felix rubbed his sore wrists, wincing as he stood. His gash was still bleeding, but there was no time to address it now. He wiped his hand on his pants, blood staining the fabric, and cautiously approached the door. He cracked it open, glancing both ways. The hallway outside was empty—at least for now. He pushed the door open wider and slipped into the hall, moving cautiously, his senses on high alert.

As he crept down the hallway, smoke and dust still lingered in the air from the explosion. He heard shouting up ahead voices raised in panic. Felix pressed his back to the wall, holding his breath as footsteps grew louder.

"Someone go check on the prisoner," a voice barked. "We got it from here."

Felix froze, his heart hammering in his chest. He waited, but then, before the approaching footsteps could round the corner, they suddenly stopped. A moment later, the sound of two figures moving swiftly in all black came into view.

"Felix!" Seungmin's relieved voice broke through the tension, and Felix let out a breath he didn't realize he had been holding.

Seungmin was at his side in an instant, wrapping an arm around Felix's waist to steady him. "I got you," he murmured.

"We need to move, now," Chan urged, looking over his shoulder with sharp eyes.

Felix nodded, his body protesting the movement as they quickly made their way down the hall, the sound of their footsteps echoing in the tense silence.

They reached the exit and jumped into the van, the door slamming shut behind them. Felix's eyes scanned the area one last time, but nothing seemed out of place. They were safe at least for now.

But none of them saw the black car parked in the shadows, the driver watching them with cold eyes and a grin that spoke of things to come.

Chapter Text

Felix was back at their main faculty getting his wounds looked at. While recapping on his mission.

"You are lucky this wasn't any deeper." Chan said, cleaning his gash. "I will give you some medicine for the pain but it will heal in a couple of weeks. It shouldn't leave a scar though"

"Thanks Chan hyung," Felix said, grimacing from the sting. "Okay, so I was able to download some data before they found me." Felix grabbed the micro usb out of his watch and handed it to Seungmin.

"That's great! Now we can figure out what the 뱀 눈 Clan's next moves are," Seungmin said, grabbing the usb from Felix and plugging it into his computer. Him and I.N started typing away together working their way through the information.

For years, Felix and his team had dedicated themselves to unraveling the web of chaos spun by the infamous 뱀 눈 Clan, also known as the Snake Eye Clan. The clandestine criminal organization had emerged seemingly overnight five years ago, swiftly spreading its influence across Seoul and beyond. Ruthless and calculated, they thrived on the shadows, dealing in black market goods, drug trafficking, money laundering, and rumors of even darker trades—trafficking and contract killings.

The team's target was clear: dismantle the Clan and bring their mysterious leader to justice. But the task had proven far more complex than they ever anticipated.

Felix, the youngest leader in their division's history, was a prodigy. His sharp instincts, unparalleled combat skills, and ability to keep a cool head under pressure made him the backbone of the team. Despite his age, his leadership commanded respect, and he had never failed to protect his team. But the Snake Eye Clan's ability to stay two steps ahead was starting to wear on him.

Then there was Seungmin, the team's tech wizard. No one could rival his ingenuity when it came to technology. Seungmin's custom-built gadgets had saved their lives more times than they could count, and his ability to hack into anything made him the team's secret weapon. He rarely showed his emotions, but his loyalty to the group was unshakable.

Chan, the weapons specialist, was the team's powerhouse. With his expertise in firearms and combat, he was both their enforcer and their protector. A perfectionist at heart, he never missed a target and often served as the team's voice of reason when tensions ran high.

Han, the driver, was the team's speed demon. His reflexes were unmatched, and he could handle any vehicle, whether it was a bulletproof SUV or a flimsy motorbike. His quick thinking and adaptability had pulled the team out of tight spots on countless occasions.

Finally, there was I.N., the youngest member. What he lacked in field experience, he made up for in sheer brilliance. I.N. was their communications expert, keeping a watchful eye over his teammates from the safety of their base. His hacking skills were unrivaled, and there wasn't a system or network he couldn't crack. While his cheerful demeanor often masked his sharp intellect, the team knew just how valuable he was.

The five of them had been through hell together, forging an unbreakable bond through years of missions that had tested their skills and their limits. Yet none of those missions compared to the complexity of the Snake Eye case.

The Snake Eye Clan operated like a ghost. Their lower-tier members were expendable pawns, and their higher-ups were like phantoms, vanishing without a trace whenever the authorities got too close. Their members bore the Clan's signature, a snake tattoo coiled around their right arm yet none of them seemed to have ever met their elusive leader.

The leader of the Clan was a true enigma. They had built an empire from nothing, commanding fear and loyalty in equal measure. They were said to have eyes as sharp as a serpent's and a heart as cold as ice. Only the Clan's most trusted members supposedly knew their identity, and even those whispers were buried deep in the criminal underworld.

For Felix and his team, it was personal. They had seen the destruction the Clan left in its wake, families torn apart, lives destroyed, and a trail of chaos that only deepened with every failed operation. The Snake Eye leader was more than a criminal to them. They were the symbol of everything Felix and his team stood against.

And now, after years of chasing shadows, Felix couldn't shake the feeling that he was closer than ever to uncovering the truth.

Felix and his team were gathering information to try and infiltrate the clan. It had taken them months to find the correct information for Felix to be able to do his mission today. Thankfully it was successful.

"Was there any new information on there you two?" Felix asked, walking over now that Chan was done cleaning up his wounds.

I.N turned and grinned, "Yes! We are able to find out their next exchange. It's going to be at the warehouse at the edge of town, in two days at midnight."

Felix nodded, "okay perfect. Do we know who the seller is?"

"It looks like an international seller from Europe. There's not a lot of information here on who they are, but it looks like it's a shipment of rifles as well as a few grenades," Seungmin said, looking through all the data.

"What do they need all that for?" Chan said, coming up behind them.

Felix shook his head, "I don't know, but it can't be anything good."

There was a heaviness in the air. Everyone was silent. They were taking in the information they just learned.

"Okay, we need to come up with a plan. We need to make sure the 뱀 눈 Clan does not get those weapons." Felix, walking over to the whiteboard to start planning their next moves.

Chapter Text

Felix parked his car in a quiet, dimly lit lot across the street from the warehouse. The area was mostly industrial, with little foot traffic at this hour, which suited him perfectly. He had come to scope out the place ahead of tomorrow's mission. With so little information on the seller, Felix knew he needed to be thorough, especially when it came to potential risks.

The first stop was the small café a few blocks away from the warehouse, the perfect spot to survey the surrounding area without drawing attention to himself. The bell above the café door chimed as he walked in, and Felix immediately felt the warmth of the place wash over him. The café was cozy, with plants covering the shelves and sunlight filtering through the windows. In one of the window sills, a lazy cat lounged, adding a touch of charm to the already inviting space. Felix couldn't help but smile at how quaint it all was. This place is adorable. I'd definitely come here under different circumstances.

The barista behind the counter greeted him with a friendly smile. "Hello, how can we help you today?"

"Uh, I'll take whatever you recommend. Iced, please," Felix said, glancing at the menu for a moment before looking back at the worker.

The worker's eyes widened slightly as he took in Felix's deep voice, which didn't quite match his delicate, innocent face. "S-sure. And what's the name?"

"Felix," he replied, pulling out cash and handing it over to the barista.

"It'll be right up," the worker said, smiling warmly as he moved to prepare the drink.

As Felix waited, he heard the bell ring again, signaling the entrance of another customer. Felix turned, expecting to see another regular, but was immediately struck by the sight of a man who could only be described as unbelievably good-looking. He was dressed in an immaculate black tailored suit, his black hair sleeked back in a way that made it clear he cared about his appearance. The sharp lines of his face, the confident air he carried everything about him screamed sophisticated elegance.

Holy shit, Felix thought, caught staring. He was so mesmerized by the stranger's presence that he didn't realize their eyes met until it was too late. The man's piercing light blue eyes locked onto his, and Felix felt his heart skip a beat. He quickly looked away, his face flushed with heat, as he tried to avoid staring. His eyes are so beautiful, Felix thought, still feeling the warmth on his cheeks.

The stranger smirked at Felix, as if amused by his reaction, before walking past him and up to the counter. Felix couldn't help but sneak another glance at the man's back, his tall frame and well-fitted suit making him look like he had just stepped out of a high-end magazine.

Focus, Felix. You're here to scope out the area, not drool over a stranger. Felix mentally scolded himself, trying to refocus. He was here for a reason, after all.

"Hyunjin, what can I get for you today?" The barista, Kai, called to the man in the suit.

Hyunjin, Felix thought. That's a nice name.

Hyunjin responded casually, "Hey, my usual is fine." He reached into his pocket, pulling out money and handing it to Kai.

"On the house," Kai said with a flirty grin.

"Thanks," Hyunjin replied smoothly, flashing him a lazy smile before turning around. His eyes immediately found Felix again, and Felix felt a strange flutter in his chest as Hyunjin cocked his head, studying him. Felix quickly averted his gaze and pretended to check his phone, feeling the heat rise in his face.

"What happened to your forehead and eye?" Hyunjin's voice was soft and curious, as if he genuinely wanted to know.

Felix touched the bandage on his forehead, feeling awkward under the attention. "Oh, umm, I ran into something," he said, trying to downplay the injury.

Hyunjin raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "You must've hit it pretty hard. Looks like it hurts."

Felix forced a nervous laugh. "Yeah, it wasn't too bad though..."

Kai called out from behind the counter, "Felix, your order is ready."

"Oh, thank you," Felix said, grateful for the interruption as he quickly took his drink from the counter.

"Of course. Enjoy!" Kai replied with a bright smile.

Felix turned to leave, but before he could step out the door, he heard Hyunjin's voice again. "See you around."

Felix paused, surprised at the simple farewell. He turned and nodded, his cheeks still warm. "Yeah, see you..." he mumbled, then quickly exited the café, feeling Hyunjin's gaze linger on him.

Well, that was interesting. Felix shook his head, trying to regain his focus. Okay, focus back on why you're here. He climbed into his car and drove toward the warehouse, the encounter with Hyunjin still playing in his mind, but he pushed those thoughts aside for now. There was work to do.

As Felix circled the warehouse, he took note of all the exits, checking for cameras and vantage points that might give him an advantage tomorrow night. He drove around to the back of the building, parked his car in a hidden spot, and quietly slipped out, careful to stay unnoticed. His phone vibrated in his pocket, but he ignored it for now he had a job to do.

The warehouse was quiet, but Felix knew better than to assume it was empty. He pulled out his camera and began snapping pictures of key areas: potential hiding spots, blind spots, and anything that could help during the operation. As he moved deeper into the building, the sound of voices caught his attention. Felix froze, instinctively ducking behind a stack of boxes.

"We need to make sure that everything goes smoothly for tomorrow evening," one of the voices said. "There's a chance the boss will be here."

"Yes," the second voice responded, "we need to ensure no hiccups. It's a very important client. If things run smoothly, they'll be a long-time customer."

Their footsteps faded as they moved away from Felix's hiding spot. He waited a few more moments, making sure the coast was clear before slipping out of his hiding place. Felix hurried back to his car and dialed Chan's number.

"Hello?" Chan answered quickly.

"Hey, it's me. Get everyone together and meet at the company. I have some new developments on tomorrow's mission," Felix said, his mind racing with the new information.

"Got it. We'll see you soon," Chan replied.

Felix hung up the phone and drove back to the company, his thoughts not entirely on the mission anymore. Despite his focus on the task at hand, his mind kept drifting back to the striking man he'd met at the café.

Chapter Text

It was the day of the mission, and the nerves were starting to hit Felix. He took a deep breath, his hands steady as he cleaned his gun, making sure everything was in perfect working order. The quiet of the preparation room allowed his mind to wander, running through the plan again in his head, ensuring every detail was accounted for.

"Hey, you okay?" Chan's voice came from behind him, breaking through the silence.

Felix whipped around, startled, not realizing anyone else was nearby. "Hey, yes. I'm just running through the plan again," Felix replied, a little too quickly. He wiped his hands on a towel, trying to push down the growing anxiety in his chest.

Chan gave him a reassuring smile, stepping closer. "We have the upper hand. They don't know we're coming. Plus, if their leader is there, we could have the opportunity to take him out."

Felix nodded, taking a deep breath. "Yeah, you're right. I just... I just want to make sure no one gets hurt. And we have to make sure they don't get those weapons under any circumstances."

"I agree," Chan said, his tone serious now. "We still don't know what they're planning to do with all those weapons. I'd hate to even think about what they have planned."

Felix sighed and holstered his gun. "Me too." The reality of what they were about to do hung heavily in the air.

One by one, the rest of the team began to arrive, each member focused and ready. As they geared up, they ran through the plan again, making sure everyone knew their role and how they were going to execute everything flawlessly.

Felix glanced at each member, nodding in approval as they all suited up.

"Okay, Chan, you, Seungmin, and I will be the ones on the ground. We'll go through the warehouse, secure the weapons, and if we can, we'll grab the clan leader and the seller. Wait for my signal before we use the smoke bombs and tranquilizer darts to capture the targets and seize the weapons."

"Got it," both Chan and Seungmin replied in unison.

"Han," Felix turned to the driver. "You'll be waiting in the car. Be alert in case we need you to step in."

"You got it," Han said with a quick nod, checking his gear one last time.

"I.N," Felix continued, looking over at the youngest member. "You'll be our eyes and ears from here. Keep your eyes out for anything suspicious."

"Got it, boss," I.N responded, typing away on his laptop.

Felix turned to the team, his expression hardening. "Everyone needs to be on high alert. We have an advantage, but don't underestimate them. Just be careful."

The team nodded in agreement as they all completed their final preparations, checking their ear pieces and securing their masks. Felix gave one last look around at his team, making sure they were ready, before signaling for them to head out. I.N would be monitoring the street cameras for them as they approached the warehouse.

"Alright, I'm seeing three to four guards at the back entrance, but only two out front," I.N reported through their earpieces, his voice calm but steady.

Felix gave a small nod. "Okay, let's focus on the back guards first, keep it low-key so we don't raise suspicion."

The van fell into silence as everyone's attention shifted to the task ahead. The drive to the warehouse was quick, the team focusing on their mission. They parked on a street running parallel to the warehouse, keeping to the shadows to remain unseen.

Felix signaled for Chan and Seungmin to follow him, and the three of them slipped out of the van, moving silently along the side of the building. Felix led the way, pausing when they reached the street where the warehouse stood. He peered around the corner and saw the guards four of them, all carrying assault rifles, casually talking to each other as they patrolled.

Felix turned back to Chan and Seungmin. "We have four guards, all carrying assault rifles. We need to take them out quietly and quickly so we don't draw attention."

"I have a plan," Seungmin said quietly.

Felix gave him a sharp nod, trusting his teammate's skills. Seungmin had a knack for gadgets, and he had something up his sleeve for this. Without another word, Seungmin moved to the other side of the building, eager to test out a new device he'd been working on. The small metal ball looked harmless enough, but when detonated, it sent out electric shocks to anyone within a five-foot radius. It wasn't lethal, but it would knock out the guards long enough for Felix and Chan to neutralize the others.

Seungmin threw the ball with precision. It hit one of the guards with a sharp thunk, and the rest of the patrol turned to look.

"Hey, you two, go check that out," one of the guards barked, sending two of them in the direction of the metal ball.

Seungmin grinned. "The other two are for you guys," he whispered into his earpiece.

Felix and Chan crouched down, watching as the two guards approached the metal ball. They didn't see the danger until it was too late. As soon as the two got within range, Seungmin detonated it. The electric shocks coursed through the guards, sending them crashing to the ground, unconscious.

Before the remaining two guards could react, Felix and Chan swiftly took them out with tranquilizer darts, watching as they fell silently to the ground.

"Guards are down. We're entering the building," Felix reported, his voice low but focused.

"You're cleared to go once you're through the door," I.N's voice crackled through their earpieces.

Felix, Chan, and Seungmin moved quickly to the back door of the warehouse, slipping inside with practiced precision. The moment the door closed behind them, the warehouse fell eerily silent.

Chan glanced around, scanning for any threats, before giving Felix a quick nod. Felix gestured for them to move, leading the way through the plastic strip curtains.

But when they stepped into the next section of the warehouse, Felix froze. It was empty. Completely empty. The only thing in the center of the large space was a single container, with a note placed on top of it.

"Something's wrong," Felix murmured, his voice tight with suspicion.

Chan and Seungmin tensed, their eyes darting around the room. Felix walked slowly over to the container and picked up the paper. As he read the message, his eyes widened in shock.

"Gotcha."

Felix's breath caught in his throat. He barely had time to react when the lights suddenly cut out, plunging them into darkness.

Before he could process what had just happened, a sharp pain struck him from behind. He stumbled forward, feeling himself lose balance as the world around him spun. The sound of gunshots echoed in the distance, and Felix's vision blurred as he fell into unconsciousness, the world around him swallowed by darkness.

Chapter Text

Felix groaned softly as he regained consciousness, his body aching with each movement. His hands were still cuffed behind his back, and the cold, metallic sensation was a harsh reminder of his current situation. He blinked rapidly, trying to adjust to the brightness of the light above him. Where am I? What happened? His head pounded like a drum, the throbbing a constant reminder of the blow that had knocked him out earlier.

He tried to piece together the events, but his memory was still clouded. Focus, Felix, he told himself, struggling to clear the fog in his mind. I need to remember what happened.

He shifted, trying to sit up, but his vision blurred, and his head spun. Fuck, this is not good, he thought, trying again to push himself upright. His world faded to black once more before he could steady himself.

When Felix came to again, he could hear voices, low whispers, muffled, but unmistakable. His mind raced with questions, and he strained to stay still, hoping to pick up on something useful.

"I don't know why the boss wanted this one," one voice murmured, the tone distant, as if the speaker wasn't sure themselves.

"It wasn't that big of a risk, though, since we knew they were coming," replied the other, sounding more confident.

Felix's mind was in turmoil. What are they talking about? Was I on a mission? He could barely hold onto the fragments of his thoughts, and the dull pain in his head made it hard to focus. Who wants me?

The two men shifted, glancing over at him, and Felix held his breath, hoping they hadn't noticed he was awake.

"Seems like the boss has a personal interest in him, but that's just a rumor," one of them said, his voice filled with uncertainty.

Felix's heart skipped a beat. Personal interest? His pulse quickened, and he tried to focus harder, desperate for some clarity.

"What do we need to do with him in the meantime?" the other asked, his voice rougher, clearly frustrated.

Before the second man could answer, there was a knock on the door.

"Hey, Changbin is looking for you two," a new voice called from the hallway.

The two men quickly left, their footsteps fading down the corridor. Felix didn't move, counting to twenty in his head before he dared to open his eyes again. The room was still dim, the light still harsh against his sensitive eyes. He groaned softly and shifted again, trying to adjust his position. As he did, his gaze caught a figure standing silently against the far wall.

The figure was tall, dressed in all black, with a baseball hat pulled low over his head. His face was mostly concealed by a mask, save for his eyes. Felix stared at him, his breath catching in his throat. Those eyes... they look so familiar, Felix thought, confusion washing over him. The man's eyes were a warm, dark brown, intense and calculating, but Felix couldn't place him.

The two stared at each other for several long moments, the silence between them thick and heavy. Felix's breath was shallow, his heart pounding in his chest as the figure's gaze never wavered. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the man turned and walked out without a word, leaving Felix alone.

Felix let out the breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, his mind racing as he tried to make sense of what had just happened. Who is he? He glanced down at his clothes, trying to remember how he ended up here. I was supposed to infiltrate the weapon deal. Did we get captured during the mission? Is anyone else here?

His headache was making it nearly impossible to focus, but he knew he needed to keep his wits about him. He realized then that he should have been wearing his earpiece if he was on the mission, but it was nowhere to be found. They must've taken it out.

The room around him was sparse, just a bed and bare walls. There was nothing he could use to his advantage, nothing that would help him escape. Think, Felix. Think! he thought, frustration mounting. You need to get out of here. You need to find your team.

He pushed himself upright using the wall, wincing at the effort. He was just starting to get his bearings when the door opened again.

"You're awake," a voice said, cold and detached.

Felix didn't respond, instead watching as the man entered, holding a medical bag. He moved toward Felix without hesitation.

"I'm here to look at your wounds," the man said, his voice calm. "Behave, and I won't have to sedate you."

Felix glared at him, not trusting the man's words. He watched closely as the man placed the bag down next to him on the bed. That's a mistake, Felix thought, eyeing the bag. Just wait for the right moment.

"Let's look at this head wound," the man continued, opening the bag and reaching inside for some gauze.

Felix seized the opportunity, leaning back and quickly kicking the man in the stomach. The force sent the man stumbling backward, and Felix scrambled to grab the scalpel from the medical bag. He turned, holding the scalpel in front of him as the man struggled to regain his footing.

"I told you to behave," the man hissed, wiping blood from his lips.

Felix stood, the scalpel ready, his stance defensive. The man lunged at him, swinging his fist, but Felix blocked it and retaliated, bringing the scalpel down across the man's arm. The man cried out in pain, blood dripping down his arm.

"You little..." the man growled, his voice filled with venom.

The man pulled a syringe from his pocket, unscrewing the cap and stepping toward Felix. Felix readied himself, watching his every movement, preparing for another fight. As the man took a step forward, Felix moved to block the punch he thought was coming.

But then, unexpectedly, he was kicked in the stomach, the force knocking the wind out of him. He staggered backward, falling onto the bed. His head hit the wall with a sickening thud, and everything seemed to spin. The world around him blurred as pain surged through his skull. He tried to recover quickly, but the man was already on top of him. Before Felix could react, the syringe was plunged into his thigh.

"Damn it," Felix thought groggily as everything around him went black once again.

Chapter Text

The last thing Chan heard before the chaos erupted was Felix's urgent yell: abort. In that instant, everything went sideways. The lights cut off, plunging them into pitch-black darkness. Chan's heart raced, and adrenaline surged through him. He and Seungmin immediately drew their guns, senses heightened, ready for whatever was coming next but Felix's next order never came.

He opened his mouth to speak, but before he could, gunshots rang out, the sharp sound echoing through the warehouse. Instinct kicked in, and Chan ducked behind a stack of boxes, pulling night vision goggles from his pocket. The world around him turned a faint green hue, but the chaos was far from over.

"Guys, what's happening? I just heard shots fired?" Han's voice crackled through the earpiece, worry laced in his tone. He sounded ready to charge in.

"Stay put for now, Han," Chan responded, keeping his voice steady despite the uncertainty. "We're figuring it out. Seungmin, are you clear?"

"Yes, I'm taking cover right now. Felix, what's our plan of action?" Seungmin's voice came back, but it was met with silence on their end. Felix still hadn't answered.

Chan peeked around the corner of the boxes. He could see Seungmin crouched behind some crates to his left, but Felix was nowhere to be found. His heart sank. The last thing he wanted was for the younger to be taken.

"Felix, come in," Chan said into his earpiece, his pulse quickening. "Seungmin, do you see Felix?"

"Negative," Seungmin replied, his voice tight with concern.

Shit, was he grabbed? Why would they grab him? Chan's mind raced as he tried to push panic aside. They needed to stay calm, he was the second-in-command now, and it was his job to lead the team through this mess.

"Okay," he began, forcing himself to focus. "We can only assume his earpiece is out, and he either managed to get away or was grabbed. Han, start the car and be ready for us. Seungmin and I will be coming out hot. I.N, check the cameras. See if you can see anything."

"You got it, let me know when you're ready for me," Han responded immediately, the engine of the car humming to life.

"I'll search through the security cameras," I.N's voice came through clearly, the sound of fast typing following his words.

Chan took another quick look around, his heart racing in his chest. The plan had gone from smooth to chaotic in a matter of moments. He couldn't afford to let fear take over.

"Seungmin," he said quietly, "on my signal, run towards the doors. I'll cover you until you get there. Once you're in position, let me know, and I'll need you to cover me from there. Han, we'll need you out front, be ready."

"Understood," everyone responded, their voices unified in purpose despite the tension.

Chan breathed deeply, but his nerves were still on edge. With Felix missing, the pressure was higher than ever. Keep it together, he told himself. We need to get everyone out of here safe. He glanced over the boxes again, his eyes locking onto the three guards slowly advancing toward them from the opposite side of the warehouse. The silence was deafening now, the calm before the storm.

Chan looked at Seungmin, signaling for him to move. Seungmin darted out from behind cover and sprinted toward the door. Chan immediately opened fire, taking shots at the guards to keep them distracted. The first guard was hit in the shoulder, causing him to stumble and fall to the ground with a pained shout. The second guard bent down to help him, while the third guard turned, aiming at Chan.

"Seungmin, go!" Chan barked, his voice low as he fired again, striking the third guard's arm. Blood sprayed from the wound, but the guard kept coming, and Chan gritted his teeth, ready for the next move.

"I'm good," Seungmin reported, panting heavily from his sprint.

Chan glanced over his shoulder to see Seungmin already crouched behind the plastic strip curtains, taking cover. The guards, meanwhile, had paused their advance to tend to the injured one, giving Chan a brief window to make his move.

"Han, we're ready for you," Chan said, his voice steady, but his nerves were barely contained.

"See you soon," Han replied, the van's engine roaring as he prepared to move into position.

Chan nodded at Seungmin, signaling that it was time to run. He could hear the beat of his own heart in his ears as he prepared to make a break for it. The guards were still distracted, but it wouldn't be long before they recovered. He knew he had only moments to act. He backed up slowly, keeping his gun aimed, ready to take down any threats.

But just as he turned to sprint, a shot rang out.

The impact was sharp and sudden, a searing pain hit Chan in the side. He stumbled forward, losing his footing and crashing to the ground with a grunt. The breath was knocked out of him as he felt the cold sting of the bullet wound. He immediately touched the spot, relieved to feel the bulk of his vest absorb most of the impact. But the pain still burned through him.

Seungmin's frantic voice echoed in his earpiece, but Chan couldn't make sense of it, the pain and dizziness overwhelming his senses. He forced himself to focus, ignoring the wave of nausea. He had to keep moving. The mission wasn't over.

"I'm fine," he managed to gasp, pushing himself up as quickly as he could. He started running toward Seungmin, who immediately began covering him, shooting at the guards as they moved into position.

"Are you okay?" Seungmin asked as Chan reached him.

"I'm good. Let's get out of here," Chan replied, his teeth gritted. He followed Seungmin through the back door, his mind still reeling from the gunshot, but there was no time to dwell on it. They needed to move.

Han was already waiting for them, the van parked and ready to go. They jumped into the vehicle, and Han slammed on the gas, speeding away from the warehouse.

"What the hell happened in there?" Han asked, glancing at the two of them through the rearview mirror, his concern evident.

Chan looked at Seungmin and then back at Han, his mind still spinning. "I.N, catch me up on what you found out," he said, needing to focus on what came next.

"I'm going through the footage now," I.N replied, his voice steady as ever, despite the chaos that had unfolded. "I'll have answers soon."

Chan leaned back, rubbing his side where the bullet had hit. Stay focused. We'll get through this, he thought, but his mind kept returning to Felix. Where was he? What had happened to him inside that warehouse?

Chapter Text

Felix woke with a jolt, his head pounding with an intensity that left him gasping for air. The ringing in his ear only added to the chaos inside his mind. His body felt heavy, each movement sluggish and painful. He tried to adjust to the bright lights overhead, but the discomfort was overwhelming. He shifted his body, only to realize with dread that he was chained to the wall.

Damn it, Felix thought, frustration rising as the weight of his situation settled in. How long have I been out? The realization that his escape just became a whole lot more complicated gnawed at him. His head still throbbed, and the fog in his mind made it hard to think clearly. He needed to focus, he needed a plan.

As he tried to settle his thoughts, the door creaked open. Felix's eyes snapped up, and he froze. The tall man with brown eyes from before stepped into the room again, leaning casually against the wall. This time, he seemed more put together, his outfit sharper than before, though the mask and baseball cap were still there, concealing much of his face. Felix narrowed his eyes, studying the man, both wary and curious. Neither of them spoke.

Then, Felix's stomach growled loudly, the noise cutting through the silence like a warning. He blushed in embarrassment, turning his face away in an attempt to hide the sound.

The man chuckled softly, and Felix's heart skipped a beat. Something about the sound of his laugh caught him off guard. It was light, almost warm. Felix blinked, his mind racing. The man's eyes squinted slightly when he laughed, making him look... almost adorable. Felix shook his head, irritated with himself. What the hell am I thinking?

"Are you hungry?" the man asked, his voice familiar.

Felix's eyes widened. Wait. I've heard this voice before. Where have I heard it?

Felix didn't answer immediately, still trying to place the voice. The man's patience clearly wore thin.

"If you're not going to answer, I can just leave," the man said, his tone hinting at impatience.

Felix's mind raced, but he refused to back down. He needed information, and this was his chance.

"Why am I here?" Felix asked, his voice steady despite the fear creeping up on him.

The man stared at him for a long moment, as if considering whether or not to respond. Felix didn't expect an answer, but he had to try. He needed to buy himself some time, time to figure out what these people wanted and how to escape.

"Who else from my team did you capture?" Felix pressed, hoping to learn something that would give him an advantage.

The man sighed, clearly getting annoyed. "How's your head?"

Felix chose not to answer, though his headache still made it hard to think clearly. He was still struggling to remember the events that had led to his capture, but his thoughts kept slipping through his fingers like water. His head was a mess of fog.

"The doctor said you had a concussion. You should eat and get your strength back," the man continued, as though offering advice.

Felix wasn't in the mood for any of it. "Why am I here? What do you want with us?" His voice was firmer now, a mix of frustration and desperation.

The man's jaw tightened at the question, annoyance flashing in his eyes. He pushed himself off the wall and started to move toward the door.

"Please, I need answers," Felix called after him, but the man didn't look back.

He paused at the door, glancing over his shoulder at Felix one last time. Without a word, he stepped out, leaving Felix alone once more. The door clicked shut, and Felix let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding.

The man walked down the hallway, pulling off his mask and sighing. The cool air hit his face as he ran his fingers through his long black hair, his mind preoccupied with a thousand things. His sleeves rolled up, revealing tattoos along his arms, and he reached for his phone.

The call connected almost immediately.

"Hyunjin?"

"Lee Know, I need you to make sure food is ready for the prisoner tonight," Hyunjin's voice was flat, yet there was an edge to it. "Make sure the area is cleared. No one is to disturb him."

"Okay, I can do that," Lee Know replied, "But why are you doing this all for him? I don't understand what you have planned."

Hyunjin's jaw clenched, irritation and something else simmering beneath the surface. "Did I ask you to question me? Just do as I say. What's going on is need-to-know, and you don't need to know right now."

"Fine," Lee Know muttered, "I'm just looking out for you."

"There's nothing for you to worry about," Hyunjin snapped.

"Just be careful," Lee Know said, his tone having implications behind it.

Hyunjin paused, his thoughts briefly lingering on Lee Know's words. "Okay," he replied curtly before hanging up.

He walked into his office and threw his mask and baseball hat onto the desk with a frustrated sigh. He collapsed into his chair, spinning it around a few times, trying to clear his thoughts. Why am I so obsessed with Felix? The question had been nagging at him ever since the first time he saw the young man. Every time he saw him, there was a pull, a curiosity he couldn't shake. Felix had some kind of magnetism, something that fascinated Hyunjin, and it only made him want to know more.

He sat back, staring at the ceiling, trying to make sense of the whirlwind of thoughts in his mind. I'm going to find out everything about him, he vowed, a strange determination rising in his chest. And for some reason, he felt the need to be the one to do it.

Chapter Text

*Trigger Warning-Non-Consent. Skip this chapter if this triggers you**

Felix must've lost consciousness again at some point. He was trying to pull himself awake when he felt something touch him. He woke up in a panic, trying to figure out what was happening.  He felt hands caressing over his body. He tried to open his mouth to say something, but his body wasn't responding to him. His eyes widened realizing he had probably been drugged. He had been moved so that his arms were above his head still chained to the wall and the man had full access to his body.

"Oh, you're awake now. I'm surprised you even woke up. I gave you a pretty strong dosage. That's okay. It's more fun for me this way anyways," the man said to him.

Felix's heart started racing when he felt the man feeling up his body. All he wanted to do was scream at this man to stop. His body however did nothing but lay underneath him as he started to remove Felix's clothes.

"You're so pretty. No wonder the boss wanted you all for himself. But what he doesn't know won't hurt him, right?"

The man had pulled Felix's pants off by this point leaving him completely naked from the waist down. No, no, no, this can't be happening, Felix screamed in his mind. He urged his body to do anything, but he continued to just lay there. He was disgusted with every touch. He felt something wet on his thighs and wanted to vomit. A choked noise came out of his mouth as he fought for his body to do anything.

Felix felt the man licked his way up his right thigh and his muscle tensed underneath his touch. He wanted to push the man away, but he felt him pause before he got to his dick and he felt him start to lick up his left leg. He closed his eyes to try and block out everything until he felt the man push his legs against his chest exposing his asshole. His eyes flew back open and he felt embarrassed, disgusted, and angry.

"God you taste amazing and look at your asshole, it's clenching at the air. Are you excited to have a cock in it? I bet your a fucking whore, just letting anyone in that dirty hole of yours."

Felix could feel tears running down his face. He begged his body to move. Why is this happening? Felix thought. If there was ever a time to escape it was now. His body jerked, feeling something touch his hole. He felt extreme pressure and excruciating pain, and realized the man was trying to push his dick inside him. He let out a painful grunt, his mouth opened and he silently screamed as more of the man's dick was pushed inside of him. He almost blacked out from the pain. The man was pushing in with full force, and he felt himself tear from it.

"Fuck, you're so tight," The man groaned, pushing even more into Felix until he bottomed out.

Felix was hyperventilating at this point, he was having a hard time breathing, Tears were streaming down his face and he was losing consciousness. He felt the man pull back and move to thrust again when the door opened. Felix couldn't see who it was through his blurry vision, but before he could register anything a shot rang through his ears.

Am I dead? Was I shot? Felix thought. His mind couldn't register anything that was happening. He heard a voice talking to him, but they sounded so far away. He tried to turn and glance at who was talking to him, but he still wasn't able to move. No words came out of him, except his ragged breath. Felix was quickly losing consciousness again and soon let the darkness take over him. He fell limp, the trauma and drugs being too much for his body to handle anymore.

Chapter Text

Chan’s exhaustion was starting to take its toll. It had been a week since Felix was taken, and despite their tireless efforts, they hadn’t made any progress. His mind felt clouded, and his body was beginning to shut down from lack of sleep. He paced back and forth, running through every possible lead they had, but nothing was coming together. How could they be so close, and yet so far away from finding Felix?

His thoughts were interrupted when Seungmin walked into the room. "Chan hyung, you need to get some rest. You…”

“Rest?!” Chan practically shouted, his voice breaking. “How can I get any rest when Felix has been missing for a week? We don’t know anything. He could be…”

His throat closed around the word, the heavy weight of it choking him. He couldn’t finish the sentence—he couldn’t even think it. The thought of Felix being lost, possibly hurt, was unbearable. His chest tightened painfully.

“We just need to find him,” Chan said, his voice shaking. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to yell at you.”

He collapsed into the chair, his head in his hands, shoulders slumped in defeat. His body felt like it was breaking under the pressure of the sleepless nights, but he couldn’t stop. They couldn’t stop. Not until they had answers. Not until they knew whether Felix was dead or alive.

Seungmin stood there for a moment before sitting beside him, his hand gently resting on Chan’s shoulder. “It’s okay, hyung. I know you’re tired. We all are. We will find him.”

Chan barely nodded, the exhaustion weighing heavily on him. He closed his eyes, trying to find a shred of strength within himself, but it was hard. They had to find him.

“Let’s do a canvas of the warehouse again,” Chan muttered, the words almost automatic, as if he didn’t know what else to say. “Maybe there was something we missed.”

Seungmin nodded, squeezing his shoulder before standing up. “I’ll let Han know, and we can get ready to leave.”

Chan nodded again, his gaze distant as Seungmin left the room. For a moment, the room felt unbearably quiet. Chan was lost in his own thoughts, but deep down, he knew what they needed. They couldn’t stop looking. They couldn’t give up, not now. His hand clenched into a fist, determination fighting through the fatigue. They would find Felix. They had to.

Seungmin walked into the next room to find the rest of the team. His chest felt heavy with the weight of the situation, but he knew he had to be strong, especially for Chan. He took a deep breath before speaking up.

“Guys, suit up. We’re leaving in ten. We’re headed back to canvas the warehouse,” he announced, looking around at the tired faces of his teammates. The exhaustion in the room was palpable. They hadn’t slept well since Felix had gone missing, each of them trying to keep their focus while fighting the pull of exhaustion.

Han looked up, his expression hesitant. “We’ve already looked there several times. If we haven’t found anything by now, I don’t think we will find something this time.”

Seungmin sighed, the same doubt echoing in his mind. But they couldn’t afford to stop now—not when they were so close to finding Felix. They had to keep looking.

“It doesn’t hurt to look one more time,” Seungmin said firmly.

Han just nodded and got up to put his gear on. Seungmin left the room to give the others some space, but Han couldn’t help but glance over at I.N. The youngest member had been silent the whole time, staring off into space as if lost in his own thoughts.

Han walked back over and gently placed a hand on I.N’s shoulder, startling him slightly. “You okay?”

I.N blinked up at him, his face red as if he was about to cry. He didn’t say anything, but just nodded, looking away quickly.

Han stepped closer, lowering his voice so no one else could hear. “Do you wanna stay here and look through the surveillance tapes again?”

I.N’s eyes dropped to the floor, his silent nod the only answer. He wasn’t one to usually let his emotions get the better of him, but the tension and lack of sleep were getting to all of them. They were all on edge.

“It’s okay,” Han said softly, patting I.N on the shoulder. “I’ll let the others know.”

Han turned and walked out of the room, the weight of Felix’s disappearance sitting heavily on his chest. He let out a long breath as he thought about their leader. Felix, where are you? Han thought. We’ll find you. We won’t stop looking for you.

Chapter Text

Felix’s body was heavy with exhaustion, each movement sending a new wave of pain through him, though he was surprised at how little it hurt. He blinked several times, trying to focus as he adjusted to the harsh lights above him. The memories of everything that had happened flooded back in an overwhelming rush. His stomach churned as he processed where he was now, and he instinctively moved to sit up, realizing his hands were still cuffed together, but at least they weren’t chained to the wall anymore. He looked around, confused by the unfamiliar room, but he could tell he wasn’t in the same place.

Am I in a different room? he wondered, his thoughts racing. He noticed subtle differences in the surroundings: a more comfortable bed, though still bare. His heart skipped a beat as he began to consider just how much had changed since he last regained consciousness.

The door creaked open, and Felix flinched instinctively, watching as the tall man entered with a tray of food. They locked eyes for a moment before the man placed the tray down on the bed beside him. Felix instinctively pulled away from the man’s proximity, but he didn’t speak.

“You should eat,” the man said, leaning against the wall near the door, observing Felix closely.

Felix’s voice was rough as he spoke, a hoarse rasp that matched the discomfort in his chest. “Why am I here?”

The man sighed, clearly annoyed. “Just eat.”

Felix’s anger flared. “What do you want with us?” He ignored the command, choosing instead to press for answers.

The man didn’t answer directly but pushed off from the wall with a slight motion, as if brushing aside Felix’s question. “If you want to starve, be my guest.”

Felix opened his mouth to protest further, but his stomach betrayed him with an almost comical growl. He winced, flushing with embarrassment as he realized he couldn’t ignore the need for food. He knew the man would probably smirk, even though his face remained hidden.

The man leaned back against the wall with an amused chuckle. “Guess you are hungry after all.”

Felix didn’t respond, his face reddening even more as he turned to the food. He stared at it for a few moments before reluctantly reaching for a piece of bread. His stomach churned with hunger, but he hesitated before taking the first bite.

“It’s just normal food. We didn’t tamper with it, if that’s what you’re worried about,” the man added, as though sensing Felix’s unease.

Felix’s mind was still racing. How does he read me so well? he thought, but his body couldn’t resist the temptation. He took a bite, and the taste was so unexpectedly good, he almost moaned from the relief. He couldn’t remember the last time he had food, and he stuffed the rest of the bread into his mouth. He picked up the other piece of bread without thinking, the hunger finally getting the better of him.

The man’s low chuckle made Felix pause, and he realized just how eager he must have looked. He blushed, feeling embarrassed as he quickly ducked his head, finishing the rest of the bread before reaching for a piece of chicken. He stopped, though, his hand hovering over it. His mind raced with questions.

“Can you at least tell me if the others are still alive?” he asked, his voice quiet, yet full of urgency.

The man didn’t answer immediately. His gaze remained neutral, though Felix noticed the flicker of hesitation in his eyes. “I don’t know.”

Felix’s chest tightened, and for a moment, he couldn’t breathe. The pit in his stomach deepened. His heart began to race as panic set in, and he placed the chicken down slowly, leaning forward, trying to steady his breathing. The room felt smaller, the air thinner, and he braced himself against his knees, fighting the overwhelming feeling that was quickly consuming him.

The man moved without hesitation, walking toward him and gently placing a hand on his back. Felix flinched at the contact, but the man didn’t withdraw, and his hand remained there, rubbing in slow circles as if trying to calm him down. Felix fought the urge to pull away. He didn’t understand why this man this person who had captured him, was showing him such unexpected kindness.

“Deep breaths,” the man’s voice was soft now, a quiet command meant to help Felix calm himself.

Felix closed his eyes, struggling to follow the man’s instructions. His breath came in shaky gasps, but after a few moments, the tension started to ease, and his heartbeat slowed. Slowly, the anxiety that had gripped him began to fade, leaving only the exhaustion in its place.

“Th-thank you,” Felix whispered, his voice raw. He wiped at his face, realizing with shock that he had been crying without even noticing. He didn’t know why the man had helped him, but the warmth of his touch had eased some of the terror, even though Felix’s mind still spun with confusion.

The man didn't respond. He simply walked back to lean against the wall, his eyes never leaving Felix. Felix couldn't take it anymore; the discomfort in his chest, the confusion in his mind, and the vulnerability of the situation, it all overwhelmed him. He couldn't shake the feeling that he was trapped, that he couldn't escape.

Felix glanced down at the plate, his stomach still churning despite the food. He pushed the tray away, leaning back against the wall as exhaustion overtook him. His mind was spinning, and the man’s gaze still weighed heavily on him. Felix closed his eyes, hoping the quiet would help ease the overwhelming pressure.

Finally, he spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. “So, are you going to kill me now?”

The words were bitter, laced with the hopelessness that had settled in his heart. He didn’t know if he expected an answer, but he couldn’t keep the question inside any longer. Felix had no idea what the man wanted from him, and with the uncertainty clouding his thoughts, the only thing left to ask was whether he would survive this or not.

Chapter Text

*Trigger Warning (r*pe is mentioned)

Hyunjin stepped out of Felix's room, leaving the door to close softly behind him. He didn't respond to Felix's question, because honestly, he didn't know how to answer. Why was he keeping him alive? The thought had crossed his mind countless times since he'd brought Felix back to the compound, but no clear answer had ever come to him. Normally, he would have disposed of prisoners quickly after extracting whatever information he could, but Felix was different. There was something about him, something beyond the obvious beauty that drew Hyunjin in. The man had strength, determination, and a charisma that was hard to ignore. Even more, he could see Felix's capabilities as a leader. Over the years, he had watched Felix's team outmaneuver his own, evading capture despite their best efforts. Hyunjin had grown to admire him.

Maybe that's the problem, Hyunjin thought to himself as he made his way through the compound, his mind still focused on Felix. The idea of killing Felix had never sat right with him. Not that it would be the first time he spared someone, he wasn't heartless, but this was different. Why is it different?

He pushed the door open to his office, his expression blank as he made his way inside. He kept his baseball hat and mask on, doing his best to maintain his disguise as he passed a few of his men. Only a handful of people in the compound knew his true identity, he preferred it that way. In a world like theirs, anonymity was a valuable asset. After closing the door behind him, he pulled off the baseball hat and mask and threw them onto his desk. With a frustrated sigh, he poured himself a glass of gin and took a long sip, trying to clear his head. He walked over to the window, gazing out at the busy streets below. The city was alive, bustling, and it felt so far removed from the chaos he had created in his own life.

His thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door, and he turned to face it. "Come in."

Lee Know entered, offering a respectful bow before sitting down on the couch. Hyunjin didn't return the greeting, his gaze still focused on the street below. Lee Know was second in command, the face of the Snake Eye Clan. He had been by Hyunjin's side since they were children, rising through the ranks together. They had built this empire from the ground up, and they trusted each other implicitly. But recently, Hyunjin had begun to feel the weight of his decisions, especially when it came to Felix. He couldn't explain it, but something about the prisoner had been eating at him.

Lee Know watched him closely, waiting for a sign that Hyunjin was ready to talk. He had been noticing the subtle shifts in Hyunjin's behavior, the way his mind seemed to wander, how he'd been distracted ever since they'd taken Felix. Finally, after a long silence, Lee Know spoke up.

"Are you going to tell me what's going on with the prisoner?"

Hyunjin froze for a moment before sighing, turning around to face Lee Know. "What is there to tell?" His voice was calm, almost indifferent, but there was a tension beneath the surface. He took another sip from his glass, trying to steady himself.

Lee Know wasn't fooled. He narrowed his eyes, studying Hyunjin with a quiet intensity. "Others are starting to talk, especially after the incident."

Hyunjin clenched his jaw, feeling the familiar surge of anger in his stomach. He tried to keep his composure, but the frustration was building. "And what are they saying?" he asked, his voice sharper than intended.

"Just surprised that he's still alive," Lee Know said, his gaze unyielding. "You aren't known for your leniency. I'm also curious, you killed one of your men because of him. It's not like it's the first time a prisoner was... treated poorly. What's different about him?"

Hyunjin's grip tightened around his glass, and his muscles tensed as he fought to control his emotions. The mention of the rape made his stomach churn, but he couldn't let his anger show. He turned away from Lee Know, unable to hide his frustration.

"You know I never approved of that," Hyunjin said, his voice low and tight. "Your style and how you handle prisoners was never my style. There's nothing different about him. Everyone is overthinking it. Keeping him here is keeping the authorities off our backs."

Lee Know leaned forward, studying Hyunjin carefully. "You aren't wrong," he said, his tone calculating. "But you're not giving me the full picture. I know you, Hyunjin. And this..." He paused, his voice becoming more cautious. "This isn't like you."

Hyunjin turned back to the window, taking another sip from his glass. He didn't want to engage further—didn't want to discuss the strange hold Felix seemed to have over him. But the more he thought about it, the more he couldn't shake the nagging feeling that something was drawing him to the prisoner in a way he couldn't explain.

Lee Know continued, trying to redirect the conversation. "Well, there's another shipment of guns coming in. We should talk about that."

Hyunjin was relieved for the change of subject. "Yes, let's talk about the shipment," he said, his voice cold again. He needed to refocus, needed to block out the growing thoughts about Felix. But as the conversation shifted to the shipment, Hyunjin found himself lost in thought again.

What am I even thinking? he asked himself. The realization hit him like a weight in his chest. What the hell am I doing with Felix?

Lee Know continued to speak, but Hyunjin wasn't really listening anymore. The thoughts about Felix kept swirling in his mind. What was it about him? And why couldn't he stop thinking about the prisoner?

Lee Know watched Hyunjin, already sensing something was off. I need to figure out what's really going on with this prisoner, he thought to himself. I don't buy Hyunjin's excuses, and I won't let him make excuses for this one. Maybe it's time to have a word with Changbin after this.

Lee Know's suspicion only deepened. He didn't know exactly what was going on, but he was determined to find out.

Chapter Text

Felix shivered uncontrollably, his body trembling with cold, even as it felt like it was on fire. The sensation of fever coursed through him, but no matter how he curled into a fetal position, he couldn’t stop the shivers. His teeth chattered, and he pulled the covers tighter around himself, trying to conserve any warmth he could. The sound of the door opening made him flinch, too weak to even lift his head to see who it was.

“Felix?” a voice called gently.

Felix felt a cold hand press against his forehead, and his body tensed, goosebumps rising at the chill of the touch.

“You’re burning up,” the person exclaimed.

Before Felix could protest, he felt himself being lifted effortlessly into the arms of the stranger. He wanted to groan or push away, but the fatigue weighed him down, and he barely had enough energy to open his eyes. When he did, he saw the tall man from before, his worried eyes gazing down at him. Felix’s vision blurred, and before he could register much more, he passed out once again, feeling himself drift into unconsciousness in the man’s arms.

Felix woke with the warmth of sunlight hitting his face. He squinted, confused by the sudden change in his surroundings. Slowly, he opened his eyes, but his body ached as though he had been lying still for far too long. He shifted, testing his body’s ability to move, and winced.

Where am I?

The room was different. It wasn’t the cold, stark place he had been in before. The surroundings were more comfortable—almost like a hotel room, with a soft bed and subtle décor. As he looked around, the realization hit him: I’m not handcuffed anymore.

Felix glanced down at his body, realizing he was in a white t-shirt and boxers, the weight of the situation sinking in. His stomach churned slightly as he looked around, noting that no one else was in the room. He spotted the phone on the nightstand, his heart leaping in his chest. There’s no way they would leave me in here with a working phone, right?

Felix pushed the covers off of him, his muscles feeling weak and uncooperative. He made his way to the phone, his hands shaking slightly as he picked it up. He could hear the dial tone, and a flicker of hope sparked in his chest. His heart raced as he quickly dialed Chan’s number. He kept glancing at the door, praying no one would walk in before he could make the call.

The phone rang, each second feeling like an eternity. Felix’s breath caught in his throat, and the ringing stopped just as he thought it might.

“Hello?”

Felix’s throat tightened, and for a moment, he couldn’t speak. He choked on his words, struggling to control his emotions.

“F-Felix?”

“Chan.” Felix managed to get out, his voice weak and shaky.

“Felix! Oh my god, where are you?” Chan’s voice exploded with relief. Felix could almost hear him running, frantic. “I.N, it’s Felix. Trace this call right now!” Chan called out, and Felix could hear the urgency in his voice. “Felix, how? We’ve been looking for you. Are you okay? Do you know where you are?”

“I don’t know,” Felix whispered, his heart pounding. “I just woke up, and I’m in this room. It looks like a hotel room.”

“Is anyone else there?”

Felix quickly glanced around, his chest tightening with unease. “I’m alone in the room right now, but I haven’t gone outside yet.”

“Don’t! Stay put, we are coming for you.” Chan’s voice was firm, filled with relief.

Felix felt a little surge of hope at those words. Could he really be going home? He didn’t want to get his hopes up too much, but he had to believe in his team.

He moved to the window, pulling the curtains aside carefully to get a glimpse of the outside world. His heart leapt when he saw the iconic Banpo Bridge.

“I can see the Banpo Bridge from my window,” Felix said, his voice a little steadier now.

“I.N, narrow your search to hotels near the Banpo Bridge,” Chan ordered, his tone sharp as he worked quickly.

“I found it!” I.N’s voice came through excitedly. “It’s the JM Marriot Hotel in Seoul. We just need to figure out what room he’s in.”

“Felix, how high are you? Can you tell?” Chan asked, urgency lacing his voice.

“I’m not sure, but I’m pretty high up,” Felix replied.

“Let me check the security cameras,” I.N said, already working.

“Send me the location once you find it,” Chan said as he rushed out of the room, Han and Seungmin close behind him.

Felix’s pulse quickened as he listened to the sounds of Chan’s team gearing up. It was happening, they were coming for him.

Downstairs, Chan, Han, and Seungmin made their way toward the hotel. They parked in the garage, keeping their movements quiet. Chan and Seungmin made their way to the service entrance, preparing for whatever might happen.

“Be prepared. We’re going to be coming in hot,” Chan whispered to Felix through the phone.

Felix nodded, though he knew Chan couldn’t see it. His mind was racing with thoughts, trying to prepare for whatever came next. His eyes scanned the room for anything he could use, settling on a hoodie in the closet. He hesitated but pulled it on, the familiar smell catching him off guard. It was vaguely familiar, but he couldn’t place it. He pushed the thought aside.

“I’m ready,” Felix told Chan, his voice quiet.

“Okay, we’ve made it to the elevators,” Chan explained. “It’s tense here, but we’re on the way. I.N, what room are we looking for?”

“There’s only one room on the top floor,” I.N responded. “Once you reach the top floor, there’s one door before reaching the room.”

The elevator dinged, and Chan’s voice came through the phone again, “Felix, we just reached your floor. Be ready.”

Felix stood still, his back against the wall, his breath shallow. He could hear the elevator ding, and his heart started pounding in anticipation. He made his way to the door, looking around to see if there was anything he could use as a weapon just in case he needed to. He took a deep breath, waiting for his team to walk through the door.

Chapter Text

Felix lay still, the weight of everything that had happened pressing heavily on him. His body felt like it was made of lead, the exhaustion and physical toll of his time in captivity overwhelming. His body still ached, but his mind was quieter now, the constant noise of fear and confusion fading as he slept. It had been three days since they rescued him, and while he had been mostly unconscious, Chan had barely left his side. He couldn’t seem to tear himself away, not until he was sure Felix was out of harm’s way.

Chan sat next to Felix’s bed, his eyes tracing over the younger’s peaceful face. It was still hard to believe that Felix was back, still breathing, after everything he’d endured. He had been prepared for the worst when they went to rescue him, and he had feared the day would come when he would find Felix’s lifeless body. But seeing Felix there, alive, it still didn’t feel real. His hand trembled slightly as he reached out, brushing his fingers against Felix’s cheek. He was warm, alive, but there was a fragile air about him that made Chan’s heart ache.

“How’s he doing?” Han’s voice pulled Chan from his thoughts. He stood in the doorway, his face drawn with the weariness of the last few days.

Chan pulled his hand back to his side, turning to meet Han’s gaze. “He seems to be sleeping easier today.”

Han stepped closer, his gaze shifting to Felix’s form. “Has he said anything about what happened?”

Chan shook his head, his thoughts returning to the grim sight of Felix when they found him. The younger had been barely clothed, covered in bruises, with clear handprints on his skin. It had been hard to look at. The thought made Chan’s chest tighten, but he pushed it down, not wanting to dwell on it any longer.

“It’s a miracle that we found him,” Chan whispered, more to himself than Han.

Han’s face grew darker, his eyes lingering on Felix. He couldn’t imagine what their friend had gone through. The thought of Felix being dead, something they had come so close to accepting, still haunted him. He walked closer to the bed, stopping at the foot. Felix looked so young, so fragile, lying there so peacefully. Han’s stomach twisted, and he couldn’t help but wonder how much more the younger could take.

“He’ll be okay?” Chan’s voice was quiet, uncertain. It was clear he was asking himself just as much as he was asking Han.

Han gently placed a hand on Chan’s shoulder, offering what little comfort he could. “He will be. He has us. We’ll be okay.” Han’s words were just as much for himself as they were for Chan, trying to reassure both of them that they could get through this. Chan nodded, taking comfort in those words, but he was still shaken.

Han gave Chan a small, weary smile. “Why don’t you get some rest? I’ll keep an eye on him.”

Chan hesitated for a moment, then sighed. He couldn’t argue with that. His body was telling him to rest, and he knew he wouldn’t be of any use if he didn’t take a break. With one last look at Felix, he slowly got up and walked out of the room, heading toward his own room. As soon as he hit the bed, he collapsed, letting the exhaustion overtake him. He closed his eyes, letting sleep consume him, not sure when the next time he’d be able to rest would come.

Han sat down where Chan had just been, his gaze never leaving Felix. His heart ached for their leader, for their friend. He couldn’t imagine the horrors Felix had experienced. He thought back to when they’d rescued him, how terrified they had been to burst through that door, expecting an ambush, but instead finding a barely-dressed Felix, holding a hanger as a weapon. It had taken all of them by surprise. They had frozen for a moment, unsure of what to do.

He remembered the shock and relief flooding through him when they realized it was really Felix, alive. His mind flashed back to the moment they’d finally gotten him out of that room, helping him walk despite his shaky legs, their concern obvious as they did everything they could to make sure he was okay.

I.N’s voice had crackled through their earpieces, making him jump, forgetting that they were still communicating.

“Did you get him?” I.N had asked, his voice filled with tension.

Chan cleared his throat before answering, his voice strained with emotion. “We got him, and we’re coming home.”

Seungmin had rushed up to Felix first, pulling him into a tight hug, giving him a quick once-over. “Can you walk?”

Felix had bitten his lip, trying to hide his exhaustion, but it was clear he was still weak. “I-I’m a bit shaky. I’m not sure how long I’ve been out for this time…”

Han had been inspecting the room for any signs of what had happened, his mind racing with questions. No one had questioned Felix’s lack of clothing. They had simply moved, focusing on getting him out of there as quickly as possible.

“We should hurry just in case someone decides to come back,” Chan had said, walking over to Felix and gently putting an arm around him for support. “Lean on me, and we’ll get out of here.”

Felix had nodded, and together, they had moved cautiously through the doors, prepared for whatever might come next.

Once they were safely in the elevator, the atmosphere had been tense, but Felix had been doing his best to hold himself together, despite his exhaustion.

“Are you okay?” Chan had whispered, his hand steady on Felix’s waist, feeling the younger’s ribs under his fingers. The reality of how fragile Felix was in that moment hit him hard.

“Y-yes,” Felix had whispered back, his breaths shallow. “Sorry, I just don’t have a lot of energy.”

Seungmin had given him a reassuring smile, trying to ease some of the tension. “Don’t apologize. We’ll be out of here soon.”

The elevator had reached the garage, and with one final check to make sure the coast was clear, they had gotten into the van. Han had been at the wheel, his eyes focused on the road as he took them back to the compound.

Back in the present, Han sat beside Felix, his thoughts returning to the difficult journey they had been on. His gaze lingered on the younger’s sleeping form, filled with worry. He couldn’t shake the questions running through his mind, What happened to Felix? Would he ever be the same again?

Han’s heart was heavy, but he knew that, with time, Felix would heal. He just had to be there for him just like they all did. Felix wasn’t alone anymore. He had them.

“Felix,” Han whispered softly, his voice barely audible. “What happened to you? Will you ever tell us?”

The questions were left unanswered as Felix remained still, his breathing steady in his sleep, his friends beside him, determined to help him heal and piece together the pieces of his shattered life.

Chapter Text

Felix sat in the corner of Café Blú, his eyes staring out the window as his thoughts drifted. The bustling city outside seemed so distant, yet so close, a constant reminder of everything he had been through in the past few months. His fingers idly traced the rim of his cup, the warmth offering a small sense of comfort in the midst of the storm of thoughts that whirled inside his head.

"Order for Felix," a voice called out, snapping him out of his thoughts.

He blinked, surprised he'd been so lost in his own mind, before he stood and walked over to the counter. Taking the drink with a small nod, he turned back to the table, still somewhat disconnected from the present. He had been coming to this café nearly every day since the doctor cleared him to leave the compound. It had been almost two months since he was taken, and though his body had healed, the weight of everything that had happened of being held captive by the Snake Eye Clan, still lingered heavily in his mind. The constant worry, the reminders of that dark time, still crept into his thoughts daily.

His team had been protective, hesitant to let him do anything on his own in the first month after his release. Someone was always with him, making sure he wasn't alone. Felix had been grateful for their care, but now, he relished the moments when he could just be by himself, even in the silence of his own head. He missed the peace of solitude before everything changed.

Felix stirred his drink absentmindedly, his thoughts turning inward once again. It feels like a different life now, he thought. The road to recovery physically had been easier than expected, but mentally? It was a constant battle. He couldn't tell his team how much harder it had been than he let on. They were already over-worrying about him, and he didn't want to add to their stress.

His mind wandered to the past weeks. They hadn't stopped getting intel on the Snake Eye Clan. Chan and the others continued going on missions without him, much to his frustration. He had argued with them countless times, wanting to join in, but Chan had insisted he stay at the compound, and Felix couldn't argue with the reasoning, even if it made him feel useless. The days blurred together as he fought his feelings of anxiety and depression. He was always afraid that the next time they left, one of them might not come back. Each time they returned safely, Felix found himself breathing a little easier. But there was still a weight on his chest, the fear that he wasn't doing enough.

Felix's thoughts were interrupted by the memory of a conversation he had overheard not long ago.

It had only been a few days after he was back at the compound. He had been lying in bed, trying to sleep, when he heard voices arguing outside his room. It was Chan and Han.

"You can't force him to talk," Han's voice had been low, his tone filled with concern.

"But he needs to talk to someone," Chan had responded, his voice sharp with frustration. "I know you see it too. He can't keep going like this. He's slipping farther every day."

Felix felt his heart sink. He hadn't wanted to hear their argument, but the words cut through him like a blade. He tried to stay still, not wanting to alert them that he was awake. Quietly, tears began to fall from his eyes as he listened to them, the guilt and sadness overwhelming him.

Han's voice softened. "I understand, Chan, but he has to decide when he's ready. If we try to force him too soon, he'll shut down again."

Chan's frustration was palpable. Felix could feel the anger rising in him, even though the older man was trying to keep his voice down. "I just hate seeing him like this," Chan muttered, his voice filled with helplessness.

Felix squeezed his eyes shut, trying to block out the conversation. He didn't want them to worry about him. He didn't want to be the cause of more arguments.

Han's voice, calm but firm, came again. "The best thing we can do right now is be here for him. He'll let us know when he's ready."

Felix stayed still, letting their words sink in. They were just trying to help, but the burden of their concern made him feel even more like a failure. He wasn't sure when he would be ready to talk, but hearing them argue about him only deepened the knot in his chest.

A few weeks had passed since then. Felix was finally feeling better physically and was itching to get out of the compound. The walls had begun to feel too close, the confinement making him feel like he was suffocating. It was time to get some air, even if it meant risking an argument with his team.

"Hey guys, I'm going out for a bit. Call me if you need anything," he called as he slipped on his shoes, ready for a little freedom.

Chan immediately stood from the sofa, his expression a mix of shock and concern. "You can't leave."

Felix paused, hand on the door handle. "What do you mean I can't leave?" he asked, spinning to face Chan, his voice slightly sharp.

"I mean you can't go alone. Let me change, and I'll go with you," Chan said, walking over to where Felix stood.

Felix raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. "Why do you need to go with me? I've been cleared by the doctor."

"Umm, I just want to get some fresh air," Chan said, his voice sounding too casual to be convincing.

"Chan..." Felix warned, eyeing him skeptically.

Chan fidgeted nervously, his gaze flickering to the floor. "I just don't want you to be out alone," he mumbled.

Felix's stern expression softened, and he exhaled a deep breath. "You're going to have to let me do things by myself," he said gently. "I need to get some fresh air. I won't be long."

"Just let me tag along. You won't even know I'm there," Chan pleaded, using his best puppy dog eyes.

Felix rolled his eyes, finally giving in. "Fine, just this once."

Felix smiled, recalling how happy Chan had been when he agreed to let the older tag along. He sipped his drink again, letting the warmth of the coffee fill him, and continued staring out the window, lost in thought. It wasn't until the bell above the door rang that Felix's attention snapped back to reality. A presence beside him caught his attention, and when he turned, his heart skipped a beat.

"Long time no see.”

Chapter Text

Felix blinked, confused. His voice? Where have I heard his voice before? he thought, trying to recall. His mind raced until it clicked. That's right. It was the same man he had met at this very café, just the day before the mission. What was his name again? Felix mentally slapped himself for forgetting, but it didn't matter. He couldn't deny that the man looked just as striking as before. His tall frame, sharp features, and those blue eyes, Felix couldn't get them out of his mind. He felt himself getting lost in those eyes once again.

"Oh, um, hello," Felix said awkwardly, feeling a blush creep up on his cheeks as he tried to gather himself.

The man smiled slightly, stepping closer. "Oh, sorry. You may not remember me. We met here a few months ago," he said, extending his hand in greeting. "My name is Hyunjin."

Felix hesitated for a moment, unsure whether to shake his hand. His mind was still reeling from the shock of recognition. He had gotten so lost in those eyes that he had forgotten to respond.

"Hyunjin, that's right," Felix muttered, still caught up in the man's gaze. How could I forget those blue eyes? He's so handsome too, Felix thought, completely entranced.

He snapped back to reality when he realized he hadn't answered. "Oh, sorry," Felix said quickly, his face turning redder from the embarrassment of getting lost in thought. "I'm Felix. It's nice to meet you... again."

Hyunjin chuckled softly. "Glad to see that your eye has healed up."

Felix blinked in confusion. "My eye?"

Hyunjin's chuckle deepened. "You had a black eye the last time I saw you. I think you said you ran into a wall?"

Felix blushed even deeper, the memory flooding back. How embarrassing that he remembers that. "Yeah, it's much better, thank you."

Hyunjin nodded with a knowing smile, but then started to turn away. However, he paused and looked back at Felix. "Do you mind if I join you?"

Felix had just taken a sip of his drink, and he nearly choked when he heard the question. He started coughing, his body fighting the liquid as it went down the wrong pipe. He struggled to regain his composure.

"I'm sorry!" Hyunjin exclaimed, clearly startled.

Felix waved him off, still coughing into his hand. Once he managed to stop, he cleared his throat. "No, no, you're fine. You just caught me off guard. Umm, yes, you're welcome to join me. Though I wasn't planning to stay much longer."

Hyunjin smiled. "Perfect, let me go order."

Felix watched as the man walked toward the counter. There's something about him that's so familiar, Felix thought, unable to shake the feeling that he'd seen Hyunjin before. His thoughts raced as he tried to place where he'd seen him, but it didn't come to him.

When Hyunjin returned and sat down across from Felix, the air between them felt unexpectedly tense, and Felix couldn't understand why. The casual conversation felt awkward, the silence stretching longer than it should have.

Felix finally broke it. "Have we met anywhere else? You just seem so familiar," he asked, trying to figure out if the man was someone he should recognize.

For a split second, Felix thought he saw something flicker in Hyunjin's eyes, a hesitation, a brief uncertainty. Did I push a button? Felix wondered. I feel like there's more to this story.

Before Hyunjin could answer, his phone rang. He got up quickly, stepping outside to take the call. Felix watched him go, feeling a strange unease gnawing at him. Why was he feeling so on edge? Something about the whole situation felt off, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it.

Felix pulled out his phone and made his own call as Hyunjin stepped outside. His hands were shaking slightly as he dialed I.N's number, his heart pounding in his chest. He glanced outside, hoping Hyunjin wouldn't see what he was about to do.

"Felix?" I.N's voice came through the phone, sounding concerned.

"I.N, I'm going to send you a photo. I need you to run facial recognition."

"Okay. I can do that. What's going on?"

"I'm just looking into something. Just tell me what you find. And I.N, this stays between us. I gotta go. I'll send over the photo now." Felix ended the call abruptly, not giving I.N a chance to ask more questions.

Felix quickly snapped a photo of Hyunjin when he turned to look in his direction, sending it off to I.N before Hyunjin came back inside. His heart raced as he shoved the phone back into his pocket, just in time for the door to open, signaling Hyunjin's return.

Hyunjin walked back in, irritation still evident on his face from the phone call. But when his eyes landed on Felix, he froze. Felix had taken a picture of him while he was outside. A strange feeling crawled up Hyunjin's spine. Well, things just got interesting, he thought, though he couldn't shake the anxiety settling in his chest.

"I hate to run, but I have to get back," Hyunjin said, breaking the silence.

Felix nodded, offering him a small smile. "It's okay. I should probably get back as well."

"I would love to see you again... if you wanted to," Hyunjin added, his tone slightly teasing.

Felix was caught off guard, his brow furrowing slightly. "You would?"

"Of course," Hyunjin said, his voice softening. "This might be a bit forward, but can I take you out later this week?"

Felix hesitated, genuinely surprised. "Umm... I—I don't know."

Hyunjin grinned, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a sleek black card. "Well, here's my card with my number. Give me a call when you do."

Felix took the card, their fingers brushing together. A strange shock ran through him, and he felt a mix of emotions that he couldn't quite process. What the hell was that?

"I look forward to hearing from you," Hyunjin said with a warm smile before he turned and left, leaving Felix speechless and uncertain.

Felix stood there, staring at the card in his hand, feeling more confused than ever. The encounter had stirred something inside him, but he couldn't tell if it was a good or bad feeling. As he stood there, lost in thought, he couldn't shake the nagging feeling that he was caught in something much bigger than he realized.

Chapter Text

Felix quickly left the café, his mind still buzzing from his encounter with Hyunjin. He got into his car, the business card Hyunjin had given him still tucked in his pocket, feeling oddly heavy. As he drove, his thoughts kept wandering back to the man with the blue eyes. Hyunjin... that's a nice name, Felix mused. He's so attractive, but there's something about him that feels... familiar. I just can't put my finger on it. He thought about the way Hyunjin had made him feel confused, intrigued, and somehow drawn to him. I probably won't see him again, Felix tried to reassure himself. Plus, it's not the time to get distracted.

He arrived at the compound and slipped inside, his mind still preoccupied with Hyunjin. He was almost relieved to have a distraction from his thoughts when he walked into the room to find I.N at his desk, typing away. Felix pushed the thoughts of the man aside for now. He needed answers from I.N, and he wasn't about to let himself get too caught up in this unexpected encounter.

"Hey, I.N, did you find anything off that picture I sent you?" Felix asked as he settled into a chair beside the younger.

I.N turned towards him, his gaze sharp. "Actually, yes. But before I show you, what's going on?" he asked, concern written across his face.

Felix sighed, not sure how to explain the swirl of confusion in his head. "I don't know yet, which is why I asked you to look into him. So, what did you find?"

I.N studied Felix for a long moment, as if trying to figure out if there was more to the story. After a moment, he sighed and turned back to his computer, pulling up the photo that Felix had sent. He ran a facial recognition search and after a few clicks, the information appeared on the screen.

"I found him," I.N said, his voice serious. "Meet Hwang Hyunjin. He's well-known in the art world, actually. Owns one of the largest art collections in Korea. There's not much on how he rose to prominence, but he's also an artist himself."

Felix's eyes widened as I.N brought up images of Hyunjin's artwork. The paintings, mainly in black and white, had a striking use of red, and they were stunning. Felix couldn't help but get lost in the beauty of the pieces, his mind momentarily distracted from everything else.

"Other than being an art collector, it looks like he also helps with various organizations around the world. But there's something odd," I.N continued. "There's barely any background on him before a few years ago. That's strange."

Felix nodded, his eyes still locked on the artwork. He felt a strange sense of connection to it, though he couldn't explain why. He snapped out of it when he realized I.N had closed the images. Felix turned to face the younger, who was looking at him intently, waiting for him to respond.

Felix quickly looked away, embarrassed at how absorbed he had gotten in the art. What the hell is wrong with me? he thought, feeling a heat rise to his cheeks.

"Thank you for looking into this for me," Felix said, his voice a little strained.

"So, who is he really?" I.N asked, his tone skeptical.

Felix swallowed, not sure how to answer. How do I even explain this? he thought. "He's just someone I ran into at the café," he said, shrugging as if it wasn't a big deal.

I.N raised an eyebrow. "The café?"

Felix froze, realizing how that sounded. "Umm, yeah, the one by the warehouse."

"The warehouse?" I.N practically yelled. "Why would you go back there? What if they still had people watching? You could've been taken again."

Felix rubbed his forehead, trying to suppress the anxiety creeping up on him. "I'm fine," he assured. "I wasn't even going to the warehouse. I just like that café."

I.N wasn't convinced. "How do you know he isn't part of the clan? That he hasn't been watching you?"

Felix paused, the thought having crossed his mind already. He didn't want to admit that to I.N, though. He didn't want to worry his team any more than they already did. "Look, I just asked you to look into him, that's all. There's nothing more to it. You're all overreacting."

"Overreacting?" I.N almost yelled, his face flushed with emotion. Felix was startled, never having seen the younger so upset. "Do you have any idea how worried we all are every time you leave? You could've died! Of course, we're going to overreact. You...you're our family."

Felix stared wide-eyed at I.N, stunned by the outburst. He hadn't realized how much this had been affecting the others, especially the younger. He had thought they were just being protective, but hearing it like this made him realize how much they cared and how much he had been taking it for granted.

"I-I'm sorry," Felix said, his voice coming out strained. "I didn't mean to make you worry."

They sat in silence for a few moments, both of them processing what had just been said. I.N, now embarrassed by his outburst, wiped the tears from his face without even realizing they were there. Felix felt a pang of guilt but didn't know what to say.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to yell," I.N muttered, his voice soft.

Felix smiled gently, his heart lightening. "It's okay. I understand where you're coming from. I'm sorry I was inconsiderate of your feelings through all of this."

I.N shook his head. "You don't have to apologize, hyung. We just worry about you, that's all. You've always taken care of us. We just want to take care of you too."

Felix nodded, his chest tightening. "I appreciate that. Thank you."

"So, who is he really?" I.N asked again, his curiosity piqued.

Felix sighed, realizing he wasn't going to get away with avoiding the questions. "He's really just someone I met at the café. There's really nothing more. I-I just found him attractive," he mumbled the last part, his cheeks burning from embarrassment.

I.N's eyes widened. "Happy?"

Felix groaned and buried his face in his hands. "We're no longer talking about this! This never happened."

I.N chuckled. "Fine, fine. I won't push. But really, I'm here if you want to talk, hyung."

Felix nodded, smiling back at the younger, grateful for his understanding. "Thanks, I.N."

Chapter Text

Felix stood outside HH Art, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts as he glanced up at the building. I.N stood beside him, his presence a steady comfort, even if he had been forced into coming along for this particular venture. Felix had practically begged for the art gallery’s name, and although the younger insisted on accompanying him, Felix was thankful for the company. He had a feeling this wasn’t just curiosity driving him to visit; it was something deeper, something he couldn’t quite explain.

“There’s a big crowd today,” Felix remarked as he looked around at the mass of people gathered in front of the gallery. “Do you know what’s going on?”

I.N glanced around as well, fidgeting. “I think they’re waiting for something special. One of Hyunjin’s new pieces is coming in today.”

Felix felt a thrill rush through him at the mention of Hyunjin’s name. A new piece? He couldn’t help but feel excited, his curiosity piqued even more than before. His mind had been so preoccupied with the art pieces since I.N had shown them to him, and now, seeing the crowd, he couldn’t wait to see it for himself.

“Let’s hope the crowd isn’t too crazy once we get inside,” I.N mumbled, clearly uncomfortable in the growing sea of people.

“Looks like they’re letting people in in sections, so it shouldn’t be too much longer for us,” Felix said, bouncing a little on his feet from excitement. He glanced at the younger. “You know, you didn’t have to come with me.”

“I know, but I figured it’s better to be cautious,” I.N replied, shrugging. “We don’t know if it was a coincidence or not that you ran into him at the café. Plus, it’s nice to be out with you.”

Felix couldn’t help but smile at that. He knew I.N was trying to look out for him, just as the rest of the team had been. But there was something warm in the younger’s words, and Felix appreciated it more than he let on. I.N had always been supportive, and he was one of the few who truly understood what Felix had been through, even if Felix hadn’t opened up completely yet.

“Oh, good, it’s our turn next,” Felix said, his excitement barely contained.

I.N looked at him and smiled, noticing the joy that Felix couldn’t hide. At least he’s having fun, he thought.

When they finally stepped inside the gallery, Felix’s breath caught in his throat. The entrance was decorated with a striking angel statue, draped in black cloth with blood-red stained hands. It was a disturbing yet mesmerizing piece, and Felix couldn’t tear his eyes away from it. His mind tried to process what he was seeing when an excited murmur swept through the crowd.

“Looks like the new piece is being revealed,” I.N said, nudging Felix, who was still staring at the statue.

Felix snapped out of his trance and followed the crowd to the next room, where a large painting was being unveiled. His excitement bubbled over as the black silk fabric was pulled away, revealing the new piece, a stunning black-and-white abstract portrait with splashes of red. The intricate brush strokes captivated Felix, and he could hardly breathe as he took in the sight of it. It’s beautiful, he thought, his heart racing.

After a few moments of gazing at the painting, Felix turned to I.N. “Let’s come back when there’s less people,” he suggested, noting how crowded it had gotten around the new piece.

I.N nodded in agreement, and they moved to explore other areas of the gallery. As they walked through the other rooms, Felix couldn’t help but marvel at Hyunjin’s work. Each piece seemed to convey a sense of melancholy and beauty that captivated him.

“His style is so beautiful,” Felix said quietly, as they stood before another painting. The stark contrast of black and white against the piercing red was hypnotic. He felt drawn to it.

“It’s definitely unique,” I.N agreed, clearly taken with the artistry as well.

They wandered through another room, where Felix stopped in front of a piece of a lone bird, its wings outstretched amidst a dark swirling background. The piece radiated an overwhelming sense of loneliness, and Felix’s fingers itched to touch it, but he resisted the urge, clasping his hands together to stop himself.

“There’s just something lonely about them,” Felix murmured, his voice soft as he studied the painting.

I.N glanced over at Felix, noticing the look of deep thought on his face. Felix had always been one to analyze things with such depth. He had always been able to look beyond the surface, and seeing him so absorbed in the art made I.N wonder what he was truly feeling.

“I think there’s more to these paintings than just their beauty,” Felix said quietly, but before I.N could respond, the room where the new piece had been revealed had cleared out.

“Hey, let’s go see the new piece before more people come,” I.N suggested, gently pulling Felix’s attention back to the room.

Felix nodded, feeling a nervous energy coil in his chest. As they made their way back to the room, his palms grew sweaty. When they entered, the room was completely empty. Felix could hear his own heartbeat as he walked closer to the new painting. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from the brushstrokes, the way the red bled into the black and white. He felt drawn to it like he was supposed to understand something, though he couldn’t quite put his finger on what. Without thinking, Felix reached out to touch the surface of the painting, but a voice immediately stopped him.

“Please don’t touch,” a security guard said as he walked up beside Felix, stopping him.

Felix immediately stepped back, looking apologetic. “Oh, I’m sorry,” he said, feeling embarrassed.

The security guard nodded and walked away, leaving Felix and I.N standing in silence. The two of them resumed their silent appreciation of the painting, but now there was an unspoken tension in the air.

“You know,” I.N said finally, his voice thoughtful. “It kinda looks like you.”

Felix blinked, caught off guard. “W-what?”

“The painting,” I.N explained, pointing to the piece in front of them. “It kinda looks like you.”

Felix’s eyes widened as he looked at the painting again. Does it look like me? he thought, his heart suddenly racing. The more he looked at it, the more he saw what I.N meant. The figure in the painting had the same dark, intense features that Felix often saw in the mirror, though slightly abstracted in the art.

Before he could say anything, a man walked up to them, his voice cutting through the silence. “Hello, are you Felix?”

Felix’s eyes shot to I.N, his heart skipping a beat. Who is this? he thought, his instincts immediately going on alert.

“Umm, who is asking?” Felix replied, his voice tight.

“Your presence has been requested. Please follow me,” the man said, turning to walk away.

Felix and I.N exchanged a look, both on guard. But with little choice, they decided to follow the man, unsure of what to expect next.

Chapter Text

Felix and I.N followed the mysterious man through the gallery, the quiet hum of the elevator adding to the tension between them. Both were on edge, unsure what to expect next. The ride felt longer than it actually was, each ding and shift in the elevator only adding to their mounting uncertainty.

The elevator finally stopped, its doors opening to reveal large, wooden double doors. The man stepped out first and gestured for Felix and I.N to follow. I.N hesitated for a brief second, turning to Felix, who was already looking at him with a determined but apprehensive look. Felix nodded slightly, and they both stepped out, the elevator doors closing behind them with a soft hiss.

Felix felt a sense of finality wash over him as he walked through the door. There’s no going back now, he thought. They entered a dimly lit, sleek office space. The room had a dark aesthetic, with a black leather couch and large windows offering a panoramic view of the city. Felix took in the surroundings, his eyes lingering on the view before they settled on the man in front of them.

He shouldn’t have been surprised, but his cheeks flushed when his gaze landed on Hyunjin. There he was, sitting comfortably in the room as though he’d been expecting them all along. Felix couldn’t deny the pull he felt toward the older man, his presence commanding and strangely soothing.

“Hello. Welcome,” Hyunjin said, standing and walking toward them. His gaze flicked to I.N, his attention now divided. “Oh, hello. I don’t think we’ve been introduced,” he said, extending his hand toward I.N.

I.N hesitated before shaking it, taking in Hyunjin’s appearance. He’s even more attractive in person, I.N thought, trying to hide his surprise. As he looked over at Felix, he couldn’t help but notice the older’s flushed cheeks. I’ve never seen him like this, he thought, amused.

“Hello, I’m I.N,” the younger introduced himself, still trying to gauge the situation.

“Hello there, Felix,” Hyunjin smiled warmly at the older, his gaze lingering a little longer than necessary. “Come sit. Make yourselves comfortable,” he said, gesturing to the couch.

Felix, still nervous but trying to keep his cool, cleared his throat. “Hello,” he managed to say, still feeling the weight of Hyunjin’s gaze. He took a seat beside I.N, who was still glancing between the two men.

“Did you lose my card?” Hyunjin asked, his voice playful as he leaned back in his chair. “I only ask because you should’ve told me you were coming. I could’ve given you an exclusive tour.”

Felix’s face turned a deeper shade of red. Of course he remembers the card, Felix thought. “Umm, no, we just happened to have some free time today,” Felix mumbled, scratching the back of his neck. “Plus, I didn’t want to bother you.”

Hyunjin chuckled softly. “It wouldn’t have been any bother. I gave you my card expecting a call, but maybe I should’ve just asked for your number instead so you can’t avoid me.” He stood up and walked over to Felix, extending his hand. Felix’s eyes widened in surprise. What is he doing?

Hyunjin smiled knowingly. “Your phone,” he said calmly.

Felix’s heart skipped a beat. He felt both embarrassed and flustered, and he knew that I.N would never let him live this down once they were out of here. Reluctantly, Felix unlocked his phone and handed it over to Hyunjin. He watched as the older man typed something on it before handing it back.

A soft ding went off, and Felix’s eyes darted to the desk where he noticed a phone lighting up. Wait… Felix’s thoughts paused when he realized that the notification came from Hyunjin’s phone. His heart raced, realizing what had just happened.

“There. Now you have my number, and I have yours,” Hyunjin said smoothly, sitting back down across from Felix.

I.N was doing his best to stifle his laughter, clearly amused by the situation. Felix, flushed with embarrassment, glanced at the younger, who was smiling mischievously. Felix rolled his eyes but couldn’t help but smile. I’ll never hear the end of this, he thought.

“So, what did you think of the exhibit so far?” Hyunjin asked, his gaze intense but calm. “Did you get to see the new piece?”

Felix nodded, trying to focus on the conversation and not the lingering tension in the air. “We were looking at the piece when we were summoned here.”

“And what did you think?” Hyunjin pressed, his voice low and teasing.

Felix hesitated, his thoughts drifting back to the piece. The abstract artwork was powerful, but something about it unsettled him. It felt… personal. He glanced over at I.N, who had mentioned before that it looked like him. There’s no way it’s supposed to resemble me, Felix thought, but there was a nagging feeling that wouldn’t leave.

Felix looked back at Hyunjin, locking eyes with him. The older man’s expression seemed to shift, his gaze turning more intense. What is he thinking? Felix wondered. He couldn’t quite decipher it, but it left him feeling both curious and uneasy.

“Your pieces are beautiful,” Felix said, his voice steady, but his heart was still racing. “They show such raw emotion and are breathtaking to look at.”

“And the new piece?” Hyunjin asked, leaning forward, his voice smooth and enticing. “What did you think of that?”

Felix swallowed, trying to focus. “It’s beautiful. I couldn’t stop looking at it.”

Hyunjin’s lips curled into a knowing smirk. “Well, I was inspired by something beautiful.”

Felix’s face turned bright red, and he felt an inexplicable shiver run down his spine. Is he implying what I think he is? Felix thought, but he couldn’t bring himself to say anything. “Oh,” he whispered, unsure how to respond.

The silence between them stretched for a moment, and Felix found himself feeling more flustered than he ever had in a while. He tried to steady his thoughts, but everything about this meeting, the man, the art, and the atmosphere was making him feel more unsettled than he had in a long time.

Chapter Text

Felix hadn’t been able to shake the unease he felt on his first mission back. The pressure was weighing on him more than he’d expected. It had been a few days since his encounter with Hyunjin at the art gallery, and his mind had been wandering back to the man constantly. I.N had teased him relentlessly about it during the ride home, but Felix had insisted the younger not tell anyone else, something I.N hadn’t been happy about but eventually agreed to.

“Felix,” Chan’s voice broke through Felix’s thoughts, snapping him back to the present.

Felix blinked a few times, refocusing on the men around him. Concentrate, he thought, trying to push all thoughts of Hyunjin out of his mind. Now wasn’t the time to be distracted. He shook his head, clearing the fog in his thoughts, and proceeded to lay out the plan.

“We’re going in through the basement,” Felix said, his voice steady despite the nerves buzzing in the back of his mind. “I.N will hack into the security system and give us thirty minutes. We’ll get in, get the intel, and get out. Once inside, we’ll split into two teams. Seungmin and Han, you’re heading to the server room on the second floor to get everything onto our drive. Chan and I will stand guard. Keep things quiet. No gunshots if possible. Neutralize anyone with the darts to avoid drawing attention. Get in, get out.”

The other four nodded, their faces serious. Felix could see the determination in their eyes, and that made him feel just a little steadier. They finished gearing up, then headed to the van, the weight of the mission settling into their bones.

Felix was nervous, he couldn’t lie to himself about that but he pushed it down. He had to prove he was ready. After all, they had intel that this bank held information on who was funding the Snake Eye Clan. Follow the money was their motto, and it was time to do just that.

“Stick close to him,” Felix heard I.N tell Chan.

The older man nodded, slipping into the back of the van with the others.

The ride was silent, each of them absorbed in their own thoughts. Felix could feel the tension in the air, and he couldn’t help but take a deep breath to calm his racing heart. This is nothing new, he reminded himself. You’ve done this hundreds of times. It’s just another mission. Stick to the plan and everything will be fine.

He felt the weight of the team’s expectations, but Chan gave him a reassuring smile, catching Felix’s eye. Felix nodded in return, feeling just a little more grounded.

“We’re clear to go through the gate when you arrive. I’ve triggered it to open,” I.N’s voice came through their earpieces.

“Okay, mask up. Remember, we need to stay undetected. Get in and get out,” Felix said firmly, pulling his mask over his face as the van pulled up to the gate.

They drove in and parked in the garage, right where they needed to be.

“The garage is clear. Once you’re inside, start your timers. You’ve got thirty minutes before I’m kicked out of the system,” I.N instructed.

“Copy that,” Felix said, giving the team a final nod before stepping out of the van. They quickly moved toward the first door.

Felix took a deep breath. “Once I open this door, start your watches. We need to get to the server room as quickly as possible. Ready?”

The team nodded in unison.

Felix opened the door and led them inside, making their way to the side staircase. The building was quiet, the night leaving most of the lights off. They moved swiftly, staying close to the walls to avoid being seen.

“The next door to your left will take you up the side staircase. It’s four flights up, and once you’re through the door, you’ll have to walk through the first set of offices,” I.N relayed.

They quickly made their way up the stairs and through the door. Felix grabbed the handle to open it when he heard keys jangling from the other side. He immediately signaled for everyone to freeze, holding his breath and waiting for the person outside to leave.

After what felt like an eternity, Felix finally heard the footsteps fade. He let out a quiet breath of relief, slowly opening the door and peeking out. A small lamp flickered in one of the cubicles, and Felix quickly shut the door again, turning to his team.

“There’s someone here. They’re in the next office. We need to be careful. Stick close,” Felix said in a low voice.

Chan started to speak, but Felix was already on the move. He opened the door and led the team silently through the first office, glancing at the cubicle as they passed. They made it to the second set of doors.

“Head left now. It’s the second door on your right. Seungmin, you’ve got fifteen minutes now,” I.N said.

Seungmin and Han slipped into the server room, and Felix and Chan took up position outside. Seungmin set to work immediately, pulling out his laptop and connecting it to the server. Han handed him a drive, and Seungmin connected it, his fingers flying over the keys. Felix glanced at his watch, the seconds ticking away.

Meanwhile, Felix and Chan remained tense, watching the cubicle across the hall. Felix’s mind raced, unsure of how much longer they had before the operation was complete.

“I’m going to go around and see if I can spot whoever’s in that cubicle,” Felix said quietly, stepping away from Chan.

“No, I’ll go,” Chan said, not wanting Felix to go off alone.

“This isn’t up for discussion. Stay here,” Felix insisted. “If they’re done before I get back, meet me at the stairwell.”

Chan clenched his jaw but stayed put, his eyes flickering back to the server door. He silently counted the seconds, wondering how much longer Seungmin and Han would take.

Chapter Text

Seungmin’s fingers flew over the keyboard, his eyes glued to the screen, his breath shallow. The timer on his watch ticked away, each passing second adding to the anxiety building in his chest. Come on, come on, he thought, trying to keep calm. He glanced up briefly, looking over at Han, who was pacing behind him. Seungmin knew the urgency of the situation, and the longer it took, the more he could feel the pressure mounting.

“We need to be out of here in two minutes,” Han said, glancing at his watch.

Seungmin nodded, sweat starting to bead on his forehead, trickling down the back of his neck. He couldn’t afford to let the pressure get to him, but the weight of the mission was overwhelming. Almost there. Just a few more firewalls. He held his breath and finally breached the last layer of security. With a sigh of relief, he quickly started the data transfer, watching the loading bar creep across the screen.

“It’s transferring. Should be done soon,” Seungmin said, giving Han a quick glance. Han nodded but didn’t let up on his watchful stance.

As the seconds ticked by, Seungmin’s nerves got the better of him. He stole a glance at his watch again almost there when suddenly, an alarm blared from the screen. His eyes widened in shock, and panic surged through him. Fuck, he thought, his hands trembling as he scrambled to turn off the alarm.

Meanwhile, Felix was quietly moving through the office, staying as stealthy as possible. His heart raced as he made his way toward the cubicle with the light still on. His eyes flicked to his watch. He needed to make sure the others were almost done, and there was no time to waste.

He crept into the hallway, staying low and silent, his footsteps light. The quiet of the building was both comforting and unnerving. As he approached the cubicle, Felix held his breath. He could hear typing from inside. Who could be here so late? he wondered. Could it be related to the Snake Eye Clan?

His heart pounded in his chest as he slid closer, trying to make out what was on the man’s screen. But before he could get a good look, the blaring sound of an alarm filled the hallway, making Felix freeze in place. The man in the cubicle jumped up in surprise. Felix quickly ducked into the shadows, pressing himself against the wall, holding his breath.

The man hastily finished what he was doing, quickly turning off the computer and bolting toward the exit. Felix waited a beat before cautiously moving back toward his team, heart still hammering in his chest. Something’s not right, he thought, but there was no time to dwell on it.

Seungmin was frantically working to stop the alarm. “We need to go,” Han said urgently, moving to unplug everything.

“Wait! It’s almost done transferring,” Seungmin replied, his voice tight with urgency.

“We don’t have time,” Han said, glancing around. “Someone’s probably on their way up here now. We need to move.”

“It’s almost done,” Seungmin said again. “Tell Chan and Felix to head down first. We’ll be right behind them.”

Just as they were about to grab their things, they heard the door open. Han raised his gun instinctively, but relaxed when he saw it was only Chan.

“We need to go. Felix will meet us at the stairs,” Chan said, his voice low.

“Wait, Felix isn’t with you?” Han’s voice spiked in anxiety.

“No time to explain. We need to go.” Chan’s words were firm, and his face was serious.

Seungmin turned back to the computer and let out a relieved breath when the transfer finished. He quickly started putting up firewalls and unplugging everything. Han grabbed his bag, helping to pack everything away as quickly as possible.

“Let’s go,” Seungmin said, throwing the bag over his shoulder.

“Incoming, guys,” I.N’s voice crackled through the earpieces. “Three men headed up the stairwell. You’ve got eight minutes to get down and out before the cameras come back online.”

They froze, looking at each other. Where the hell is Felix? Chan thought, his pulse quickening. Without wasting any more time, they rushed down the hallway, heading for the stairwell.

“On my command, we go for the door and down the stairs. Be ready, there’s probably someone at the bottom,” Felix’s voice came through the earpieces, grounding them all.

Chan let out a sigh of relief. Thank God he’s okay, he thought, the anxiety easing just slightly.

They waited in silence, holding their breath as they heard the footsteps of the approaching men. Finally, the stairwell door creaked open, and three men stepped into view. They moved towards the server room, and Felix gave the order.

“Now.”

The team rushed forward, slipping through the door and moving quickly down the stairs, trying to stay as quiet as possible.

“There are two downstairs. They’re not near the stairwell door, so you should be able to take them out before they notice,” I.N advised.

Felix nodded, his heartbeat racing again as they reached the bottom of the stairs. He carefully opened the door, peeking out. The two men were stationed by the garage door, their backs to him. He quickly closed the door again and turned to his team.

“I’m going to knock one out with the dart. As soon as I do, we need to move fast and take the other one down,” Felix said, his voice steady despite the tension in the air.

Everyone nodded in agreement.

Felix opened the door again, carefully checking that the men hadn’t moved. He raised the dart gun and took aim. With a quiet shot, the first man collapsed, and without missing a beat, Felix and the team rushed forward, neutralizing the second man before he could react.

Both men were down, and they quickly made their way out to the garage, piling into the van. Han gunned the engine, and they sped away, the building growing smaller in the rearview mirror.

“Well, that was close,” Felix muttered, letting out a relieved breath as he looked back at the building. The adrenaline was still coursing through his veins, but they were safe—for now.

Chapter Text

The sun had just begun to peek over the horizon when the team returned to the base. The adrenaline from the mission still buzzed in their veins, but they were all ready to get to work. Seungmin wasted no time, he plugged the drive into his computer and began decrypting the files they had stolen from the bank. Felix and the rest of the team started putting away their gear, quietly waiting as Seungmin worked.

“What happened?” Felix asked, looking over at Seungmin as he typed away.

Seungmin didn’t glance up, focused on his screen. “I left them a little present. It must’ve triggered another firewall, but I set up a backdoor. We’ll be alerted whenever this account is accessed.”

Felix raised an eyebrow. “Are they going to know it was us?”

Seungmin shook his head without looking up. “I’ll make sure they don’t. Even if they do, it’ll be near impossible for them to break through our firewalls. The backdoor’s secure. We shouldn’t have any issues.”

Felix nodded, impressed by Seungmin’s work. He glanced over at Chan, who had been watching him since they returned. He chose to ignore the older man, knowing he was just over-worrying, but it was hard to shake the feeling that Chan wasn’t completely convinced about him going back out into the field.

“Hey,” Chan’s voice broke the silence.

“Hm?” Felix responded, still focused on the rest of the team.

“Did you ever find out if there was someone else there?”

Felix paused, thinking back to the cubicle. “Yes. There was someone working on something. I couldn’t see much, and they ran out when the alarm went off.”

“That’s suspicious,” Chan said, his brow furrowed. “If they weren’t doing anything wrong, there would be no reason for them to run.”

Felix nodded, agreeing with the assessment. “I thought the same thing. I didn’t get a good look at him either—his back was mostly to me.”

“I got it!” Seungmin’s voice cut through their conversation.

The team quickly gathered around Seungmin’s screen as he pulled up the decrypted files. Felix scanned the documents that Seungmin had opened, and his brow furrowed at the findings.

“Looks like this account is mostly used by someone named Lee Know,” Felix said, reading aloud. “Can you dig up any information on him?”

Seungmin quickly started clicking through more files. “Already on it.” He paused, then looked back up at Felix. “There wasn’t much info on him until four years ago. It says he’s the CEO of a company called Steel Works Group. They’re in the construction business, but the company was only started four years ago, so we can assume it’s a front for something else.”

Felix narrowed his eyes. “Is he connected to the Snake Eye Clan?”

Seungmin clicked through more files, then paused again. “Umm…guys. It looks like he owns the warehouse where you were taken, Felix.”

Felix froze, his eyes wide. “That doesn’t seem like the leader, but it’s definitely someone higher up.”

Chan looked at Felix, his expression darkening. “We need to keep an eye on him. If he’s connected to the warehouse, he could be a key player in the clan.”

Felix nodded. “Agreed. This information came too easily. We need to be cautious in our next steps. I say we put a tail on him for now and see if we can learn anything more.”

“I’ll take care of it,” Chan volunteered immediately, stepping forward. He didn’t want Felix to take this risk.

Felix gave a small smile. “Thanks, Chan. Seungmin, can you get me his address?”

“I’ve got it right here,” Seungmin responded, pulling up another set of files.

“Perfect,” Felix said. He turned to Chan. “We’ve got tracking devices. Get one on his car. Don’t take unnecessary risks, and don’t make contact if you don’t have to.”

“Got it,” Chan said. “I’ll report back every four hours. I’m heading out now. Seungmin, send me the address.”

“On it,” Seungmin replied as he started sending the details over.

As Chan left, Felix turned back to Seungmin. “See if you can get us any more information through that backdoor.”

Seungmin nodded, already returning to his computer. “It’ll take a bit of time, but I.N and I will work on it. We’ll let you know if we get anything.”

Felix nodded. “Keep me updated. I’m going…” he started, but was cut off by his phone ringing.

He glanced at the screen and froze. Hyunjin. He hesitated before answering, stepping away from the group.

“Hello?” Felix’s voice was slightly strained, unsure of what to expect.

“Hello, Felix,” Hyunjin’s voice was smooth, almost too casual.

Felix blushed, though he didn’t want to admit it. “Uh, hi.”

“You seem surprised to hear from me,” Hyunjin said, amused.

“Yeah, I didn’t really expect you to call,” Felix admitted, his mind racing as he walked farther from the group to avoid being overheard.

“I told you I would.”

“You did… um, did you need something?”

“Getting right to the point, I see,” Hyunjin teased, the amusement in his voice clear. “I was wondering if you were free tonight.”

“Tonight?” Felix’s heart skipped a beat.

“Yeah, if you were free.”

Felix glanced over at the others, who were now looking at him curiously. I.N, who seemed to know who was calling, gave him an encouraging nod. Felix quickly looked away, trying to hide his nervousness.

“Uh, sure. What did you have in mind?”

“It’s a surprise. Just send me your address, and I’ll come pick you up.”

Felix hesitated. “Oh, you don’t have to do that. I can just meet you wherever we’re going.”

“Just send me your address. I’ll see you at seven,” Hyunjin said, and before Felix could respond, he hung up.

Felix stood there for a moment, a little dazed. His mind was whirling, and he wasn’t sure how to process the fact that Hyunjin had just asked him out. He sighed and walked back to the others, trying to look unaffected.

As he rejoined them, he felt like his head was in a fog. “I need a minute,” he muttered, walking over to the window and staring out at the city below.

Back at Hyunjin’s place, the older man stood by his window, watching the morning traffic flow. He couldn’t stop thinking about Felix and how excited he was for their evening together.

A knock at his door interrupted his thoughts.

“Who is it?” Hyunjin called.

“It’s me,” Lee Know’s voice came from the other side.

Hyunjin groaned and called out, “Come in.”

Lee Know stepped inside, bowing before sitting down on the couch opposite Hyunjin. “Your new art piece has a strong resemblance to that agent we had as a prisoner a few months ago.”

Hyunjin’s expression remained neutral as he met Lee Know’s gaze. “What are you trying to say?”

“Do you like him?”

Hyunjin hesitated, a flicker of something crossing his face.

“Is that why you didn’t let me near him?” Lee Know pressed.

Hyunjin clenched his jaw. He had never intended to let Lee Know know about his interest in Felix. “Your methods with prisoners aren’t always the best. I needed him alive and undamaged. I made the painting to draw him in, and it worked. We need to stay a step ahead of him and his team.”

Lee Know looked unconvinced. “Then I can have one of the men tail them. It’s better for us to know their every move, especially after the break-in at the bank last night.”

Hyunjin remained calm. “Once the assessment is done, I want the report on my desk. No need for the tail—I’ll take care of it. You can go now.”

Lee Know stared at Hyunjin for a moment longer, then stood up and bowed before leaving. As the door clicked shut, Hyunjin pulled out his phone to call Changbin.

“Hello?”

“Changbin, I have an assignment for you.”

Chapter Text

Felix paced around his apartment, glancing nervously at the clock. He hadn't been here in months, he'd been staying at the compound most of the time since he was taken. It felt strange being back in his own space again. He absentmindedly picked up a few of his dead plants, hoping to bring them back to life with some water. The clock beeped, signaling it was now six-thirty. Felix took the plants over to the windowsill, wiping the dust off the ledge before setting them down. They'll be okay here, he thought, trying to distract himself from what was about to happen. Why am I so nervous? he asked himself. Is this a date?

His hands grew clammy, and he swallowed hard, anxiety creeping up on him.

The doorbell rang, snapping Felix out of his thoughts. He checked the time again, six-forty. He's early, Felix thought, walking over to the door. He quickly glanced around his apartment to make sure everything looked fine before opening it.

"Hello," Hyunjin greeted him, standing at the threshold with a confident smile.

Felix couldn't help but let his gaze wander over the older man. He looks so good, Felix thought, noticing the way Hyunjin's white button-up shirt was rolled up to his elbows, revealing tattoos on both arms. I wonder what his tattoos are, Felix thought distractedly.

"Hello," Felix finally managed to say, still a little taken aback by how good the other looked.

They stood there for a moment, just looking at each other, before Felix realized he was staring. "Umm, are you ready to leave?"

Hyunjin raised an eyebrow with a teasing smile. "What, I don't get to come in?"

Felix's eyes widened at the older's forwardness. "Oh, um..."

"I'm just teasing. If you're ready, we can go," Hyunjin smirked, amused by Felix's reaction.

Felix flushed slightly, shaking his head. He stepped back, leaving the door ajar as he grabbed his keys and phone from the kitchen counter. "After you."

Hyunjin led the way down the hallway toward the elevator, and Felix followed, his nerves still buzzing. They waited in silence for the elevator to arrive, the tension in the air palpable. Felix stood on one side of the elevator, Hyunjin on the other. As the doors closed, they both stood silently, Felix's mind racing with thoughts he didn't know how to process.

The elevator dinged and they exited on the garage floor. Hyunjin led them to his car, and Felix couldn't help but notice how naturally they moved together.

"So, you never told me where we're going," Felix said, breaking the silence as they reached the car.

Hyunjin looked over at him with a playful glint in his eyes. "You'll see," he said, winking at Felix before getting into the car.

Felix hesitated for a moment, wondering if maybe this wasn't the best idea, but he pushed the thought away and climbed into the car. The engine roared to life and they sped out of the garage, merging onto the highway.

"You look really nice, by the way," Hyunjin finally said, glancing over at Felix.

Felix felt a blush creep up his neck. "So do you," he said, glancing out the window at the passing lights, trying to steady his nerves.

Hyunjin chuckled, his eyes back on the road. "So, tell me about yourself. I know you work for the city. What do you do exactly?"

Felix hesitated, trying to decide how much to share. I'm not even sure who he really is, he thought. He wasn't sure how much he could trust the man, but he didn't want to lie. "I work for a small contract firm. We do a lot of miscellaneous jobs. Nothing too exciting," he said, sticking to the truth, but leaving out the details.

"That sounds like it keeps you busy," Hyunjin said with a soft smile.

"You could say that. What about you?" Felix asked, turning the conversation back to him. "I know you own your gallery, but do you do anything else?"

Hyunjin shrugged. "I support a few small businesses, but it's mainly just the gallery."

Felix nodded, watching the older man as he spoke. "How long have you had your gallery?"

"It's been about five years now," Hyunjin answered.

"That's impressive. You're very talented. Your pieces are beautiful."

Hyunjin blushed at the compliment, clearing his throat to regain composure. "Umm... thanks," he said, his voice a little quieter than usual.

Felix couldn't help but smile. He's cute when he blushes, he thought, his heart skipping a beat.

"Have you always wanted to be an artist?" Felix asked, his curiosity piqued.

Hyunjin nodded. "Since I was a child, it's been my dream. I guess I just got lucky along the way."

Felix studied him for a moment, then asked, "And your parents? Are they proud of their accomplished artist son?"

The air seemed to shift around them as Hyunjin's expression darkened. His grip on the steering wheel tightened. "I don't know. My parents aren't in my life," he said shortly.

Felix winced, realizing he'd touched a sore subject. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to—"

"It's fine," Hyunjin said quickly, his voice quieter now. "I just... I never really knew them."

Felix nodded, feeling the weight of the conversation. He, too, had lost his parents at a young age and could understand the emptiness that came from that loss. He looked out the window, seeing the exit for Incheon approaching. What's in Incheon? he thought.

"What's in Incheon?" Felix asked, glancing back at Hyunjin.

Hyunjin gave him a sideways glance. "We're almost there. You'll see."

Felix didn't press further, but as they drove, he noticed the tension in his chest tightening. They arrived at a lone warehouse, and Felix's heart started to race.

"What are we doing here?" Felix asked, feeling a rush of anxiety. "You're not kidnapping me, are you?" He let out a nervous laugh, trying to defuse the tension.

Hyunjin chuckled, "Don't worry. It's nothing like that." He parked the car and got out, waiting for Felix to follow.

Felix hesitated, then finally got out of the car, following Hyunjin to the door. He felt a strange sense of unease wash over him as Hyunjin unlocked it and stepped inside. Felix followed cautiously, taking in the dimly lit space around him.

Hyunjin closed the door behind them and turned to face him. "So, what do you think?" he asked, his gaze intense.

Felix's eyes widened as he looked around. "Is this... is this all yours?"

Hyunjin nodded, a hint of pride in his voice. "Yeah, these are all the pieces that didn't make the cut. They stay here until I create something new."

Felix stepped closer to the pile of paintings and sketches, his breath catching in his throat. He knelt down, drawn to one in particular. It looked oddly familiar. Is this me? he thought, his fingers lightly grazing the surface of the painting.

He turned to Hyunjin. "Who is this?"

Hyunjin's gaze softened, but he didn't answer immediately. He hesitated for a moment before speaking. "They're... of you."

Chapter Text

Felix looked down at the sketch in his hands, unable to shake the feeling that the portrait before him resembled him more than he’d expected. His heart-shaped lips, the freckle just beneath his eye, everything was captured with startling accuracy. He looked up at Hyunjin, his curiosity piqued, and asked quietly, “What do you want from me?”

Hyunjin finally met his gaze, his voice soft but steady. “I… I just want to get to know you,” he confessed, a slight hesitation in his words. He then added, almost shyly, “And I’d love it if you’d sit for me while I paint you.”

Felix couldn’t help but smile, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “And what do I get in return for sitting for you?” he teased, leaning in slightly.

Hyunjin was caught off guard by Felix’s playful tone, his face flushing as he smirked back. “Well, what do you want?” he asked, stepping a little closer to the younger man.

Felix felt his heartbeat quicken at the proximity. He put the drawing down, standing up and closing the space between them. “Hmm… I’ll have to get back to you on that,” he teased with a smile, glancing down at Hyunjin’s lips before meeting his eyes. He stepped back, his heart racing. “Where do you want me?” he asked, feeling a slight blush creeping onto his face.

Hyunjin let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. He cleared his throat, forcing his thoughts back into focus. He’s even more captivating than I thought. I need to be careful with him, he thought to himself. “Uh, why don’t we head over there?” Hyunjin gestured to the empty side of the warehouse. “We can get started there.”

Felix nodded, his nerves a little frazzled but also excited. He followed Hyunjin, who grabbed a stool along the way. Felix stopped in the middle of the open space and turned around to look at Hyunjin, who was preparing a canvas.

“Just relax for a moment,” Hyunjin instructed as he grabbed his brushes and paints from a nearby desk. “I need to set everything up.”

Felix leaned against the stool and watched Hyunjin prepare his materials. He couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at how effortlessly the older man moved.

“Wait… you’re using color?” Felix asked, surprised when he saw Hyunjin add vibrant paints to his palette.

Hyunjin looked up at him with a smile. “You’re too vibrant to use dull colors,” he said, his smirk playful as he noticed the shocked look on Felix’s face. He went back to mixing the paints, feeling a warmth spread through him at the compliment.

Felix’s cheeks flushed from the unexpected words, but he quickly turned away to distract himself, walking around the space and stopping to admire other pieces. He found himself captivated by the emotion that seemed to seep from every canvas.

“Where do you get your inspiration from?” Felix asked, picking up one of the paintings.

Hyunjin moved closer, his voice thoughtful as he answered. “It depends. Sometimes I’m trying to evoke a feeling, other times I just let my emotions take over and put them into the work.”

Felix turned back to face Hyunjin, curiosity still flickering in his eyes. “And this one?” he asked, pointing to the painting in his hands.

Hyunjin stared at it for a moment, lost in thought. “That’s from a long time ago,” he said quietly, taking the painting from Felix’s hands. He set it down gently and looked back at him. “I’m ready for you, if you’re ready.”

Felix was about to ask more about the painting but decided to leave it for now. He nodded and followed Hyunjin back to the stool. As he sat down, he waited for further instructions.

“Can I?” Hyunjin lifted a hand, signaling that he wanted to adjust Felix’s posture.

Felix nodded, his heart racing. He watched as Hyunjin hesitated before touching his wrist. Felix flinched slightly from the coldness of his touch, and Hyunjin immediately pulled his hand back.

“Did I…?” Hyunjin asked, clearly concerned.

“No, sorry. I didn’t expect your hands to be so cold, is all,” Felix murmured, a little embarrassed by his reaction.

Hyunjin’s face flushed as he mumbled, “My fingers tend to get cold sometimes.”

Felix smiled gently. “It’s okay. I don’t mind,” he said, his tone soft.

Hyunjin’s blush deepened, and he cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure. He clasped his hands behind his back and turned back to Felix. “Can you bring your right foot up onto the footrest, and leave your left on the floor? You can put your hands wherever it feels natural.”

Felix moved into position, feeling the weight of Hyunjin’s gaze on him. He felt the tension between them, thick and palpable. Hyunjin continued to stare at him, his gaze not leaving the younger even as he walked to the canvas.

“Ready?” Hyunjin asked, his voice low. Felix nodded, trying to steady his breath.

Chapter Text

Changbin sat in his car, parked a short distance away from the warehouse, his eyes scanning the area. He'd been there for a while now, observing Hyunjin and Felix's arrival, but still, his mind was racing with questions. What was Hyunjin doing with Felix? What could they possibly be doing in there? The whole situation felt off, but Lee Know had insisted he follow Hyunjin, and as always, Changbin obeyed, though he wasn't comfortable doing so.

Why am I following him? he thought, glancing at the warehouse. What if this leads to trouble? He glanced nervously at the empty streets surrounding the building.

Lee Know had made it clear it was for Hyunjin's safety, but something didn't sit right with Changbin. The more he watched, the more uncomfortable he felt. Why did he want me to follow him?

Changbin shifted uneasily in his seat when his phone buzzed in the cupholder. He snatched it up quickly, reading the message from Lee Know.

Any updates for me?

Changbin bit his lip, unsure of how to respond. He knew he was lying, but he wasn't sure how much he could tell Lee Know without causing trouble.

Not really. Still watching, nothing to report yet, he quickly typed, hoping it would buy him some time.

The silence made Changbin uneasy. Finally, Lee Know's texted back. Okay, keep me updated.

Sounds good. Will do, Changbin replied, quickly hanging up before Lee Know could ask further questions.

He let out a sigh, but his unease didn't go away. He glanced back at the warehouse once more, deciding to get a closer look. The nervous energy in his stomach only grew as he approached the building. What exactly was Hyunjin doing here with Felix? Changbin moved quietly, staying out of sight, and surveyed the area for another entrance.

As he walked, he noticed a few high windows and a door at the back of the building. The high windows immediately made him groan inwardly. Of course, he thought, why would they be at a convenient height for me to see through? He looked around for something that could help him get a better vantage point and spotted a barrel nearby.

After some struggling, Changbin finally managed to push the barrel under one of the windows, sweating from the effort. Why is this so heavy? he muttered under his breath. He climbed up, trying to steady himself on the edge of the barrel, and stretched on his tiptoes to peer through the window.

He could see inside the warehouse, and his eyes widened at the sight. It was filled with paintings and sketches. This must be Hyunjin's studio, Changbin realized. It made sense now why he'd never known about it, Hyunjin was a private person. As he continued to scan the room, his gaze landed on Felix, sitting on a stool, while Hyunjin worked in front of a canvas.

Why would Hyunjin bring him here? Changbin wondered, Doesn't he think Felix might recognize him from before? His curiosity was piqued even more when he saw how comfortable they seemed around each other.

Suddenly, Changbin's phone buzzed again. It was a message from Lee Know.

I know you're lying. Tell me what you found before I pull up your location and drive there myself.

Changbin's heart skipped a beat. He had hoped he could keep the lie up, but now Lee Know was calling him out. What do I do? His mind raced, torn between loyalty to Lee Know and what he had just witnessed.

His phone buzzed again, another message from Lee Know.

Don't keep me waiting.

Changbin's anxiety spiked, and he was torn. Do I lie again and risk him pulling my location, or do I tell the truth and risk Hyunjin finding out I'm watching him?

As he sat there, frozen, a noise inside the warehouse caught his attention. He peered back through the window, his eyes going wide. Inside, Hyunjin and Felix were kissing.

What the hell?! Changbin thought, completely taken aback by the scene unfolding in front of him. He never expected things to go this far.

His phone buzzed again, Lee Know's impatience evident in the text:

You have five seconds to reply.

Changbin's fingers hovered over his phone, heart racing. Without thinking, he quickly typed:

Hyunjin has just been following Felix. Doesn't seem like anything's happening today.

He hit send before he could think twice, heart pounding in his chest. Shit, what have I done? He glanced inside once more but the two men were no longer in view. Realizing he had overstayed his welcome, Changbin scrambled down from the barrel and rushed back to his car.

As he drove away, he felt the weight of what he'd just done. What have I gotten myself into? he thought.

Chapter Text

Felix shifted uncomfortably in the stool, trying to focus on staying still. His muscles screamed at him as time dragged on. He glanced over at Hyunjin, who was so engrossed in his painting that he didn't seem to notice Felix's discomfort.

"Umm, do you think we can take a break soon?" Felix finally asked, his voice quiet.

Hyunjin, startled by the question, glanced up from his work. "Oh, sorry. Just a few more minutes, and we can," he said, not taking his eyes off the canvas.

Felix sighed and slouched back, doing his best to stay still while the minutes dragged on. He found himself staring absently at the wall, fighting the urge to move. How long has it been now? he wondered, growing increasingly antsy.

Finally, Hyunjin appeared from behind the canvas, wiping his hands on a cloth. "You can relax now," he said, his voice soft, almost apologetic.

Felix exhaled in relief and stretched his neck, standing up from the stool. "That's... quite intense," he remarked, his muscles protesting as he tried to ease the stiffness in his body. He glanced at Hyunjin, then chuckled.

"What?" Hyunjin asked, looking up in confusion.

Felix walked over to him, reaching out to wipe a spot of paint off his cheek. "You have some paint here."

Hyunjin blushed at the unexpected touch. "Oh, um... thanks," he stammered, reaching up with his cloth to clean it off, but only smearing it further.

Felix couldn't help but laugh softly. "Let me do it. You're just making it worse," he said, gently taking the cloth from Hyunjin's hand. He wiped the paint away with a practiced touch, his fingers brushing lightly against Hyunjin's skin.

Hyunjin found himself momentarily lost in the feeling of Felix's touch, his eyes lingering on the younger's face. So many freckles, he thought to himself, unable to ignore the heart-shaped freckle under Felix's eye. He studied Felix's face, his gaze eventually drifting down to his lips. Such perfect lips...

Felix finished wiping the paint off, but before he could step back, Hyunjin caught him off guard, pulling him into a kiss. Felix froze for a moment, surprised by the suddenness of it, but before he could react, Hyunjin pulled away quickly.

Hyunjin's face flushed, his breath catching. "I-I'm sorry," he stammered, stepping back. Felix, still in shock, grabbed his wrist before he could retreat further and pulled him back in for a kiss. This time, Felix took the lead, kissing him softly at first before deepening the kiss, his tongue slipping into Hyunjin's mouth. He smirked hearing the other moaning into their kiss. He moved to pull back, but Hyunjin tried to stop him from pulling away by grabbing the back of his neck. He snuck his hand up and grabbed a hold of Hyunjin's neck giving it a gentle squeeze, which caught the other off guard and Hyunjin pulled back, stepping backwards away from him.

They stood there, both panting lightly from the intensity of the kiss. Hyunjin was conflicted, he had thoroughly enjoyed it, but the feeling of Felix's hand on his neck left him unsettled in ways he wasn't prepared for. What the hell is wrong with me? Hyunjin thought, his mind racing as a flush crept up his neck.

Felix watched him, his own thoughts racing. This is unexpected, he mused. I didn't think Hyunjin would be like this, but maybe I was wrong about him. He couldn't help but notice the effect he had on the older man. He stepped forward, his voice lower than before. "Maybe we should finish the painting?"

Hyunjin, still reeling from the intensity of the moment, struggled to maintain his usual composure. "I... yeah, we should finish the painting," he stammered, trying to hide the nervousness creeping up on him. His stutter wasn't lost on Felix, and he smirked at the sight.

"Are you sure?" Felix pressed, a teasing smile tugging at his lips.

Hyunjin shivered, feeling Felix's gaze on him. This isn't how I planned for tonight to go, he thought. Clearing his throat, he nodded. "Yeah, let's finish."

Felix, sensing Hyunjin's discomfort, turned and walked back toward the stool, settling down again. Hyunjin followed him, and after a moment's hesitation, he grabbed a stool and placed it beside Felix. "I need to adjust you a bit," he said, walking around the canvas to stand in front of him.

Felix nodded, his heart hammering in his chest. He felt the coldness of Hyunjin's touch as the older man moved him into position. The sensation of his cold fingers on his warm skin only made Felix more aware of how much the situation was affecting him. He grabbed Hyunjin's wrist, guiding his hand gently but firmly to his neck.

"Why don't we get out of here?" Felix murmured, his voice thick with desire.

Hyunjin's breath hitched as Felix's hand rested on his neck again, sending a shiver down his spine. His mind raced with conflicting thoughts—he wanted Felix, but there was a part of him that was still hesitant, unsure of where this was headed. His heart raced as he struggled to keep his composure.

Chapter Text

Hyunjin nervously tapped his steering wheel, his thoughts swirling. What am I thinking? he asked himself. This wasn't part of the plan. He glanced over at Felix, who was already looking at him. Their eyes met for a brief moment before Hyunjin quickly looked away. His palms started to sweat, and he gripped the steering wheel harder. Get it together, he told himself, but his usual calm and collected demeanor seemed to be slipping away.

Felix watched the older man closely, noticing the subtle signs of nervousness in his posture. He seems... off, Felix thought. Did I catch him off guard when I asked him to leave?

"Why don't we go get something to eat?" Felix suggested, his voice breaking the silence.

Hyunjin flinched at the sudden question, visibly startled.

"What are you hungry for?" Hyunjin asked, glancing over at Felix.

You, Felix thought, but quickly pushed the thought aside. "I'm good with anything. You pick."

Hyunjin turned on his blinker, making a U-turn. "Are you up for another drive?" he asked, a slight hesitation in his voice.

Felix, already here, figured he might as well go along with it. "Sure," he said with a shrug, turning to look out the window, watching the city lights fade behind them.

They drove through Incheon, heading towards the bridge, and eventually parked outside a restaurant by the water. Felix looked around, surprised that Hyunjin had chosen such a bustling spot.

They walked inside and were greeted by a worker, who led them to a secluded room. Felix took in his surroundings as they settled in.

"I hope you like seafood," Hyunjin said, picking up the menu. "They have some of the best... What's wrong?" he asked, noticing Felix's change in expression.

"Nothing. It's not a big deal," Felix replied, reaching for the menu, but there was a small edge of tension in his voice.

Hyunjin grew concerned. "Wait, you're not allergic to seafood, are you?"

Felix gave him a guilty look. "Well..."

Hyunjin's face fell. Fuck, why didn't I ask first? he thought, his stomach sinking. "You're not... allergic?"

Felix grinned. "I'm just joking," he said, trying to lighten the mood. "I actually love seafood."

Hyunjin paused, unsure whether Felix was being serious or not. After a moment, he let out a breath. "Your... joking."

Felix's guilt flared up, seeing how upset Hyunjin looked. "Sorry, I didn't mean to worry you. I thought I'd lighten the mood. You seemed nervous in the car. Really, I'm fine."

Hyunjin's thoughts were a mess. His heart pounded in his chest, and he couldn't focus on anything but the warmth of Felix's words. What is happening tonight? he thought, his well-constructed walls starting to crumble.

"Hey," Felix said gently, noticing Hyunjin's unease. He reached out and placed a hand on Hyunjin's.

The contact made Hyunjin jump, startled by the sudden intimacy. He looked up at Felix, whose eyes were filled with concern. "Umm, funny joke," Hyunjin mumbled, forcing a chuckle. He quickly pulled his hands away and clasped them tightly in his lap. What is wrong with me?

Felix was about to apologize when the waiter arrived to take their order. After a quick decision, the room fell into an uncomfortable silence as they waited for their food. Felix watched Hyunjin, who was visibly trying to calm himself. Why did I make that joke? he wondered, feeling the tension still hanging in the air.

Hyunjin could feel Felix's gaze on him, but he kept his focus on anything but the younger. When did I lose control of this? His thoughts flickered back to earlier that evening, the kiss. The feeling of Felix's hand on his neck had made him shiver. He felt his face heat up again. Get a grip, he told himself.

Felix noticed the color in Hyunjin's cheeks and smiled to himself. He looks even more adorable when he's flustered, he thought.

"I'm sorry about earlier," Felix said, breaking the silence. "I didn't mean to make things awkward."

"You don't have anything to apologize for," Hyunjin quickly interrupted, finally meeting Felix's eyes.

Felix nodded, deciding not to press further. "Okay," he said, shifting the topic. "When do I get to see the painting from today?"

"When you sit for me again," Hyunjin replied softly.

"So, there will be a next time?" Felix asked, a teasing tone in his voice.

Hyunjin's smile was almost shy as he replied, "I hope so."

Before Felix could respond, their food arrived, and the conversation shifted to the meal. Felix smiled as the food was laid out before them. "Everything looks great!"

Hyunjin nodded in agreement. "If you want anything else, just go ahead and order it."

Felix nodded, and they both began eating. As they did, Felix couldn't help but watch Hyunjin savor each bite. There was something charming about the way he appreciated the food, making small sounds of delight whenever he tasted something exceptional. Felix couldn't help but smile, finding the older man even more endearing.

Hyunjin caught Felix staring and felt his cheeks warm again. "Is something wrong?" he asked, his voice a little higher than usual.

Felix quickly shook his head. "Just admiring how cute you are when you eat."

Hyunjin froze, his face turning redder than before. He stammered, trying to find a response. "Umm, I..."

Felix chuckled softly, the sound sending Hyunjin into an even deeper blush. "Sorry," Felix said, trying to reassure him. "I didn't mean to embarrass you. It's just cute watching you enjoy the food."

Hyunjin wanted to crawl under the table. He had never expected this evening to turn out this way, and he wasn't sure how to regain control of the situation. I need to pull it together, he thought.

"How about we order some drinks?" Hyunjin suggested, trying to shift the conversation away from his embarrassment.

Chapter Text

Hyunjin took another long drink from the bottle of soju he was holding, staring off into the distance at the water. He had managed to convince the restaurant owner to let them take four bottles to-go, after already finishing six between them. His head was starting to feel fuzzy, and the world seemed to sway slightly around him.

"Hey, the water feels great! You should come join me!" Felix called out from the shore, splashing around in the ocean, his clothes soaked through.

Hyunjin looked at him, a soft smile forming on his lips. He had convinced Felix to keep the night going and drink by the water, though part of him was just biding his time until he was sober enough to drive. Or so he told himself. He took another swig of his drink before lying back, letting the alcohol settle in his system.

"Come on, you have to come feel the water," Felix said, his excitement evident as he tugged at Hyunjin's hand.

Hyunjin groaned playfully, pulling his hand away. "Felix," he whined, unwilling to get up just yet. He tugged at Felix's hand, trying to free himself.

"Don't finish the last bottle by yourself!" Felix laughed, grabbing the bottle from Hyunjin's hand and taking a swig before setting it aside. "Come on," he said, his eyes sparkling as he pulled Hyunjin to his feet.

Hyunjin scoffed, a playful smile on his face. "You're definitely not older than me."

Felix shrugged, pulling him toward the water. "Whatever. Will you listen to me if I call you Hyung?"

Hyunjin froze at the word. He'd never had anyone call him that before. "I guess," he mumbled, his face warming. He let Felix drag him toward the water, the younger's hand still firmly holding his.

Felix turned to him. "Come on, Hyung. Let's go!"

Hyunjin let Felix lead him until they reached the edge of the water. He stepped forward just enough to let the cool water touch his toes, feeling the shock of the cold water against his skin.

"Scared of getting a little wet?" Felix teased, splashing Hyunjin with the water.

Hyunjin shot him a playful glare. "Don't you dare," he warned, but before he could react, Felix splashed him again. "You didn't!" he exclaimed, running after Felix, laughing.

Felix sprinted away, giggling as Hyunjin easily caught up and scooped him off his feet. Felix laughed and struggled in his grip, shouting, "No! Don't!"

Hyunjin waded a little deeper into the water, laughing too. He set Felix down in the water, watching as the younger let out a surprised yelp, going under for a second. He looked down at his soaked clothes and shrugged. So much for not getting wet, he thought with a smile.

Just then, Felix splashed him again, the cold water hitting Hyunjin's face. He blinked, looking over at Felix, who was dripping wet, his freckles shining brightly in the moonlight. Felix looked so carefree, so beautiful. Hyunjin found himself moving before he could think, stepping toward Felix, closing the distance between them.

He hesitated for a moment, unsure, but Felix met his gaze, unblinking. Felix tucked a strand of hair behind his ear, sending a wave of goosebumps up Hyunjin's arms. What the hell am I doing? Hyunjin thought. But before he could stop himself, Felix leaned in and kissed him.

The kiss was quick, just a soft press of lips, before Felix pulled away, watching Hyunjin's reaction. Hyunjin barely had time to process before he was pulling Felix back in, deepening the kiss. Their lips crashed together, urgent and hungry. Hyunjin moaned softly as Felix's tongue slid into his mouth, the taste of him, the feel of him, intoxicating.

They finally pulled apart, both gasping for air, eyes wide, searching each other's faces. Felix's expression was unreadable, but Hyunjin could see the want and need in his eyes.

"Do you want to get out of here?" Felix's voice was low, sending a shiver down Hyunjin's spine.

Hyunjin stepped back, his heart racing. He wasn't sure what to say, or what to do. His mind was a mess, but the cool breeze on his wet skin grounded him slightly.

Felix softened his voice, not pushing. "We should at least get out of these wet clothes."

Hyunjin nodded, relief flooding him. "Can we stay here for a few more minutes? I just want to enjoy this a little longer."

Felix smiled, his expression gentle. "Sure."

They moved to shallower water, sitting down together, letting the waves lap around them. Hyunjin leaned back, staring at the night sky, the stars twinkling brightly. He felt an unexpected calmness settle over him. For the first time tonight, everything felt quiet, peaceful.

But then his gaze shifted to Felix. They were alone in the quiet of the water, just the two of them. Hyunjin could feel the weight of everything that had happened, this night, this kiss, Felix's closeness. But this is just two guys, right? Hyunjin tried to convince himself. Nothing more.

Felix glanced at him, sensing the tension. "Are you ready to leave?"

Felix's voice snapped him out of his thoughts. "If you are," he said softly.

Hyunjin hesitated, glancing at the dark ocean, the coolness of the water soothing him. But the wet clothes clinging to him reminded him they needed to leave. "Yeah, let's go."

Felix grabbed his hand and Hyunjin helped him to his feet, their hands lingering together for a moment. They stood, just looking at each other. Hyunjin cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "Let's go."

Felix nodded, his hand falling away, and they walked off toward the nearest hotel along the shoreline.

Chapter Text

Hyunjin fumbled with the keycode, his fingers slipping as the alcohol began to settle deeper into his system. His wet clothes clung to his body, adding to the overstimulation. With a frustrated groan, he tried again, but the door beeped at him, denying entry. He felt a gentle nudge at his side and, without resistance, allowed himself to be moved. Turning, he leaned his back against the door, hearing the soft click as the lock finally disengaged.

“Come on,” came a voice, steady and sure.

An arm wrapped around his waist, supporting him as they stumbled inside. The warmth of the room hit him like a wave, and he shivered, dropping his shoes and jacket haphazardly onto the floor. He struggled with the buttons on his shirt, too eager to shed his damp clothes. A slight whine escaped him when the buttons refused to cooperate.

“Here, let me help,” Felix murmured, dropping his own things to the floor before stepping in front of Hyunjin, gently taking over. Felix, already feeling the effects of the alcohol, could tell the older man was more intoxicated than he was. With practiced ease, he unbuttoned the shirt, each pop of the buttons sending a wave of relief through Hyunjin.

Felix paused, looking up to meet Hyunjin’s gaze. “Do you…” He was cut off when Hyunjin’s hand cupped his cheek, forcing him to look into the older man’s eyes.

“You’re so pretty,” Hyunjin whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

Felix blushed, a shy chuckle slipping from his lips. “You’re not too bad yourself.” He leaned back slightly, trying to pull away. “Let’s get you out of these wet clothes, hmm?”

But before Felix could fully step away, Hyunjin closed the distance, his lips crashing against the younger’s. Felix froze, momentarily caught off guard, before he gave in to the kiss, melting into it. The world around them seemed to disappear as their kiss deepened, Hyunjin’s hands coming up to hold Felix’s face, his lips demanding more. Felix let him take the lead, his hands resting gently on the older’s sides as they moved together.

Felix’s hands wandered, brushing over Hyunjin’s body, making the older man shiver under the touch. The warmth of their bodies against each other seemed to heighten the sensation, and Hyunjin moaned softly into the kiss when he felt the button of his pants come undone.

Finally, Felix broke the kiss, trailing his lips down Hyunjin’s neck. He pushed at the older man’s pants, but the wet fabric clung stubbornly to his skin, making the task more difficult than expected.

Impatient, Hyunjin shifted, his hands moving down to help Felix. His body arched slightly in response to the younger’s lips on his chest, the touch sending electric shocks of pleasure through him as Felix’s tongue flicked over his nipple.

“Patience, Hyung,” Felix said, pulling back slightly. “We’ve got time.”

Felix finally got a firm grip on Hyunjin’s pants and began peeling them down. Hyunjin steadied himself with a hand on Felix’s shoulder, his legs shaking slightly as Felix crouched lower, slowly guiding the fabric down. Felix gently tapped Hyunjin’s foot to signal him to lift it, then repeated the motion with the other foot. He tossed the pants aside before kneeling completely, his hands caressing up Hyunjin’s calf and slowly gliding up his thigh to the older’s hip.

Hyunjin’s body tensed, his breath catching in his throat as Felix’s touch ignited something deep inside him. His cock twitched, already hard and desperate. Every sensation felt amplified, the alcohol swirling in his veins, making everything sharper, more urgent. He moaned quietly, his eyes fluttering closed as Felix’s breath hovered near his cock.

“Look at me,” Felix ordered, his voice deeper now, full of command.

Hyunjin opened his eyes just in time to see Felix lower his head and take him in. A jolt of pleasure ran through his body, causing him to instinctively grip Felix’s hair. His hands were trembling, torn between pulling the younger closer or pushing him away. For now, he held on, letting Felix set the pace.

“F-fuck,” Hyunjin gasped, the pleasure overwhelming. “I’m close.”

Felix pulled back, a smirk playing on his lips. “Not yet,” he said softly, watching as Hyunjin’s face contorted in frustration.

Hyunjin let out a soft whine, his body aching with need. “W-why?”

Felix stood, his eyes darkening with desire as he moved to unbutton his own pants. But just as he was about to, his gaze flickered back to Hyunjin. The older man, desperate now, had begun to jerk himself off, his hand moving fast and frantic. Felix’s smirk deepened at the sight. “Fuck, that’s sexy.”

Hyunjin’s eyes were closed, his body completely lost in the sensation, his hand moving faster, needing the release. His moans were louder, desperate, but he didn’t care. His breath grew ragged as he neared the edge.

“Nooo,” Hyunjin cried out, his eyes flying open in shock when he felt a hand on his cock, squeezing firmly. He pushed at Felix, trying to get him to stop, desperate to finish.

“Behave,” Felix commanded, his free hand slipping up to grip Hyunjin’s neck, holding him in place. “You’ll cum soon. I promise, it’ll be worth the wait.”

Chapter Text

Hyunjin moaned, his eyes squeezing shut, letting the waves of pleasure come over him once again. His hands grabbed at the bed sheets under him and he felt the world slightly spinning, the alcohol affecting him more now that he's laying down. He was so close to cumming again that he would do anything to release.

Felix glanced up at the older's face, getting turned on by Hyunjin's contorted face. He moved one of his hands to palm his hard cock, feeling it pulse in his hand. He groaned tasting the older's precum on his tongue, he savored the taste. I want to taste more, he thought. Another day though. He had other plans for tonight. He pulled up and off the older's cock with a wet pop, earning a moan from Hyunjin.

Felix felt the room spin slightly as he moved off the bed. He clumsy peeled over his shirt and pants with some difficulty, but finally got them off. The buzz of the alcohol in his system left a touch less careful and his inhibitions a little lower. He turned his head, hearing moans coming from the bed. His gazed landed on the older's flushed face, squirming on the bed utterly wrecked and desperate to cum. He smirked, the heat of the moment clouding his better judgement.

Hyunjin was desperate to cum, already being denied twice. Small pants and moans slipped out from his lips as he desperately jerked his cock, his body twitching with pleasure. He was so consumed in his need that he didn't feel the bed dipping beside him.

"Are you desperate?" Felix whispered into Hyunjin's ear, his voice dripping with amusement. He reached out his hand brushing over Hyunjin's wrist, stilling the frantic movements of the older's hand.

Hyunjin eyes fluttered open his breath coming in shallow gasps. His mind clouded with alcohol and the overwhelming sensations Felix was coaxing out of him. He blinked a few times trying to clear his vision and thoughts. His eyes finally focused on Felix, and he was confused again. "F-felix?"

Felix chuckled softly as he leaned over Hyunjin, the warmth of his breath ghosting over the older's neck. His lips pressed to Hyunjin's ear, dragging a shiver from the older as Felix whispered, "You look so good like this."

Hyunjin whined, his head lolling to the side."F-Felix." He swallowed hard, his voice raw from his earlier moans. "P-please. I... I need it."

Felix hands found Hyunjin's thighs, spreading them apart as he knelt between them again. "Tell me what you need, Hyung," he murmured, letting his deep voice wrap around each word. His fingers traced slow, teasing patterns along Hyunjin's thighs, the sensation making the older tremble.

"I don't know," Hyunjin stuttered, his breath hitching as Felix's hand gripped his thigh firmly, spreading his legs wider. He whimpered, his hands clutching at the sheets, as his body trembled under Felix's touch. He'd never been in this position before...never let anyone have this kind of control over him. It was terrifying, but it was also exhilarating in a way that left him craving more.

"Let me make you feel good," Felix said as he leaned down pressing gentle kisses on the older's taunt stomach. "Relax for me Hyung," Felix whispered, his voice a little deeper. "I promise you'll enjoy it."

Hyunjin tensed as he felt Felix's hand slide lower, his fingers brushing against his entrance. "W-wait," he stammered, his voice shaky. His heart raced, and he instinctively tried to close his legs, but he couldn't with Felix being between them.

"Shh, it's okay," Felix soothed, his thumb gently stroking the older's hip. "I'll go slow, alright? Just trust me."

Hyunjin swallowed hard, his breath coming in shallow gasps. He felt Felix's finger press against him again, the sensation foreign and strange. His body tensed up again, his nerves spiking as he squirmed beneath Felix. "I-I've never done this before," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

Felix froze for a moment, his gaze snapping up to meet Hyunjin's. The vulnerability in the older's eyes made his heart clench, and the haze of the alcohol wasn't enough to dull the weight of Hyunjin’s words. "You've never bottomed before?" He asked softly, his tone shifting to something more careful, more understanding.

Hyunjin shook his head, his cheeks burning with embarrassment, "I just... not..."

Felix leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss to the corner of Hyunjin's mouth, reassuring. "It's okay. I've got you," he said, his voice steady and comforting, like an anchor.

Hyunjin's body relaxed slightly, but his grip on the sheets tightened. Felix's hand drifted lower, brushing close to his aching cock but never quite touching it. The younger's hands slid over the sensitive skin of his inner thighs, making him moan.

"Let me show you how good I can make you feel."

Before Hyunjin could respond, he felt Felix's cock press against his, the warmth and weight of it sending shivers through him. Felix shifted, guiding his legs to press together tightly around the younger's cock. The sensation was new, unfamiliar, but it wasn't overwhelming, it felt oddly intimate.

Felix began to move, thrusting slowly between Hyunjin's thighs. The sudden sensation made him gasp, his hips jerking instinctively. "F-Felix..." he moaned, unsure of what was happening but unable to stop the way his body responded.

Felix's cock was hot and hard, sliding between his thighs with slow, deliberate movements. The friction was overwhelming, the slickness of Felix's precum making the glide impossibly smooth.

"Fuck," Felix groaned, his voice low and gravelly as he thrust between Hyunjin's thighs. His hands gripping at the older's hips, the tight press of the older's legs around him sent jolts of pleasure through his body. "You feel so good, Hyung. So warm."

Hyunjin arched his back, his body instinctively moving with Felix's thrusts. The alcohol in his system heightened everything; The heat, the weight of Felix on top of him, the way Felix's cock brushed so close to his entrance with every thrust-it was all consuming, and it made him feel things he'd never felt before. It was almost too much, but it wasn't enough at the same time. His breath hitching as the sensation grew more intense.

"Felix," Hyunjin moaned, his hands clutching the sheets beneath him. His body trembled, his releasing building again, "I'm so close..."

Felix groaned, he picked up his pace as he chased his own high. His thrusts grew harder, the slick sounds of skin against skin filling the room. He leaned down, his lips brushing against the older's ear. "Let go for me Hyunjin," he whispered. Come for me."

Hyunjin's moans grew louder, his body shaking as he neared his release. "Felix," he gasped, his nails digging into the younger's shoulders. "I-l'm-"

"Do it," Felix encouraged, his own breaths coming in ragged gasps as he thrust harder between Hyunjin's trembling thighs.

Hyunjin cried out as the tension snapped, his orgams crashing over him in waves. His cock twitched, hot spurts of cum spilling onto his stomach in hot, sticky ropes. His body arched, his thighs squeezing around Felix as he rode out his orgasm.

Felix groaned, the sight of Hyunjin falling apart beneath him pushing him over the edge. With a final thrust, he came between Hyunjin's thighs, his cum mixing with the slick mess already on the older stomach.

For a moment, the room was filled with nothing but the sound of their heavy breathing. Felix leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Hyunjin's forehead as they both came down from their highs.

"You did so well," Felix murmured, brushing a strand of damp hair from Hyunjin's face. "You okay?"

Hyunjin nodded, his eyes fluttering shut as a content sigh escaped him. "Yeah...I'm okay," he murmured, his voice barely audible.

Felix chuckled, pulling Hyunjin into his arms and holding him close. "Rest now, Hyung," he said softly. "I'll take care of you."

Hyunjin didn't protest, his exhaustion overtaking him as he drifted off in the younger's arms, feeling safe for the first time in what felt like forever.

Chapter Text

The harsh vibration of Felix's phone rattled against the bedside table, dragging him out of a restless, alcohol-induced sleep. He groaned, his head pounding as he blinked against the pale morning light filtering through the curtains. Fumbling for his phone, he winced at the sight of Chan's name flashing repeatedly on the screen.

There were over a dozen missed calls and just as many messages. Felix swiped his thumb across the screen to answer, barely getting a word out before Chan's voice barked through the line.

"Where the hell have you been?" Chan's tone was sharp, the usual warmth in his voice replaced by worry and frustration. "I've been trying to reach you all night. Do you have any idea how many times I called?! We have a situation!"

Felix sat up, the bedsheets pooling around his waist as the memories of the night before came rushing back. He glanced to his side, his breath catching at the sight of Hyunjin still asleep.

The older was sprawled on his stomach, the morning light highlighting the curve of his back. His hair was a mess, covering part of his face, and his lips were parted slightly as he breathed. There was something so peaceful about him like this, a stark contrast to the guarded, mysterious man Felix had been drawn to during their first meeting.

"I'm fine," Felix said, his voice hoarse. "I just..." He hesitated, his eyes lingering on Hyunjin. "I got caught up."

"Caught up?" Chan repeated, his voice sharp again. "Felix, you disappeared for hours. After what happened last time, I can't..." He exhaled again, trying to steady himself. "I can't go through that again."

Felix winced "I'm sorry," he said softly, rubbing the back of his neck. "I didn't mean to worry you. I'll explain later, okay? Just...give me some time to get back."

"Get back?" Chan's tone turned suspicious. "Where the hell are you?"

"Incheon," he admitted. "I'll figure it out and call you once I'm on the road."

"Be careful," Chan said firmly. "And Felix…if something feels off, get out of there. Don't take risks."

"Got it," Felix muttered before ending the call.

Felix set the phone down and got out of bed as quietly as possible, grabbing his clothes off the floor. Hyunjin stirred slightly, mumbling something under his breath, but he didn't wake. Felix paused, watching the older for a moment, his mind racing.

Something about Hyunjin didn't add up. The way he carried himself, the mysterious aura that seemed to follow him, the little things he said that hinted at a life more complicated than he let on. Felix had been drawn to him, sure, but now in light of everything that has happened, he couldn't shake the nagging feeling that he's missing something important.

Once dressed, Felix grabbed his phone and wallet, slipping them into his pocket. He hesitated at the door, glancing back at Hyunjin one last time. There was something almost fragile about the older in this moment, something that tugged at his chest. But he shook his head, pushing the thought away. He needed to get back to the city.

As Felix stepped outside, the cold morning breezes made him shiver. He scanned the area looking for the closest business. The ocean waves crashed along the beach, leaving him feeling calmer.

Pulling his phone out of his pocket, Felix glanced at the screen again. Among the missed calls from Chan, another set of notifications caught his eye: a barrage of urgent texts from I.N.

I.N.: Hyung, where are you??
I.N.: Are you okay? Please answer me.
I.N.: You were with him, weren't you?
I.N.: Hyung, if something happened, just call me. Please.

Felix's chest tightened as he scrolled through the messages. He hesitated for a moment, debating whether to call him back or keep quiet, but the thought of walking aimlessly for hours and the growing unease from the events of last night pushed him to make the call.

The phone rang only once before I.N.'s frantic voice came through."Felix-hyung?! Where are you? Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, I.N.," Felix said quickly, though his voice wavered slightly. "I'm okay."

"Why didn't you answer me last night? I was worried sick!" I.N. pressed. "You were with Hyunjin?"

Felix exhaled, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Yeah, I was. But it's... complicated."

"Complicated how?" I.N.'s voice sharpened.

"I can't explain right now," Felix muttered, glancing back at the house behind him. "I just need you to pick me up."

"Pick you up? Where are you?"

"Incheon," Felix said "I'll send you my location. Can you get here?"

"Incheon?!" I.N. echoed, incredulous. "What the hell are you doing out there?"

"I'll explain everything when you get here, okay?" Felix cut in, his tone firmer now. "Just please, I.N. I need you to trust me and don't tell anyone you're coming to get me."

There was a pause on the other end of the line before I.N. finally relented. "Fine. But you'd better explain everything when I see you. Don't move, I'll be there as soon as I can."

"Thank you," Felix said softly, relief washing over him.

As he ended the call, he sent I.N. his location and shoved the phone back into his pocket. He turned to look at the hotel door one last time. He felt uneasy, but pushed it out of his mind.

The night with Hyunjin felt like a blur now, the warmth of their connection overshadowed by the nagging suspicion that Felix was missing something critical.

Hyunjin wasn't just some mysterious man he'd stumbled at the coffee shop, Felix could feel it in his gut. There was something dangerous lurking beneath that vulnerable exterior, and he had a sinking feeling he'd just gotten too close to it.

Turning away, Felix began walking down the quiet dirt road to wait for I.N., each step heavy with doubt. As much as he wanted to believe last night had been real, the questions in his mind refused to quiet.

Who was Hyunjin? And what was Felix to him?

Chapter Text

Hyunjin finally woke up and the first thing he noticed was the empty bed beside him. His hand reached out, brushing against the cool sheets where Felix had been. For a brief moment, he thought Felix might still be in the room, maybe in the bathroom. But as he sat up and was greeted by the silence of the room. Felix was gone.

Hyunjin's chest tightened, and an overwhelming sense of abandonment washed over him. He stared at the rumpled sheets, his mind racing. Had Felix regretted last night? Had he left because he didn't want to face me? Or was it something else entirely? he thought.

The alcohol-induced haze from the night before were gone, and were replaced with a suffocating amount of vulnerability. Hyunjin buried his face in his hands, his thoughts spiraling. He'd let Felix see a side of him that no one else had, fragile, exposed, submissive. And now Felix was gone, leaving him to pick up the pieces of his shattered composure.

A bitter laugh escaped Hyunjin's lips as he leaned forward, burying his face in his hands. He was the mafia boss, the most feared man in the city and yet, here he was, feeling small and discarded. He'd let his guard down, and now he was paying the price.

The knock at the door startled Hyunjin. He froze, his heart racing as the sound echoed through the room. He wasn't expecting anyone, and he wasn't in any shape to face anyone either.

"Boss?"

Hyunjin hesistated, not wanting the other to see him like this, but exhaled slowly, pushing himself off the bed. Throwing on a robe, he shuffled to the door and opened it, his hand gripping the edge tightly. Slowly, he lifted his head, his red-rimmed eyes meeting Changbin's uncertain gaze.

Changbin stood a few steps away, his usual confident air replaced by something hesitant. He'd never seen Hyunjin like this before, so unguarded, so broken. It unsettled him. What the hell happened last night? He asked himself. He had stopped following them once he they arrived at the restaurant.

"Why are you here?" Hyunjin asked, his voice hoarse.

Changbin hesitated. "I was...just passing by," he lied, his voice lacking conviction.

Hyunjin's eyes narrowed, the mask of authority slipping back into place for a moment. "Passing by? Changbin I'm not fucking stupid," he said harshly.

Changbin winced inwardly. That was a lame excuse, he thought.

Hyunjin straightened, his eyes narrowed. "You've been following me."

Changbin didn't answer immediately, his silence confirming Hyunjin's suspicion.

"Why?" Hyunjin asked his tone edged with both anger and exhaustion.

Changbin exhaled, debating whether to tell the truth. He'd been following Hyunjin at Lee Know's request,  but admitting that would mean betraying Lee Know's trust, and it would likely infuriate Hyunjin even more.

"I was worried about you," Changbin said finally, choosing his words carefully. It wasn't the whole truth, but it wasn't a lie either.

Hyunjin's jaw tightened, his eyes boring into Changbin. "Worried about me?" he repeated, his voice laced with bitterness. "Since when do you care?"

Changbin flinched at the accusation, but he didn't back down. "Since you haven't been acting like yourself," he said firmly. "Lee..." He cut himself off, biting his tongue before Lee Know's name could slip out.

Hyunjin caught the hesitation, his eyes narrowed. "Lee Know put you up to this, didn't he?"

Changbin froze, his heart sinking. He hadn't meant to give that away.

"I see," Hyunjin said, his tone cold. "So my second-in-command thinks I can't handle myself anymore. That's why you've been trailing me?"

"It's not like that, Boss," Changbin said quickly, stepping closer. "Lee Know just...he's worried. We all are. You've been distracted, and that puts you at risk. He asked me to make sure you were okay, that's all."

Hyunjin let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. "Lee Know has never been worried about me. I don't need babysitters," he muttered. "What I need is for people to trust me to handle my own damn life. So what exactly have you seen, Changbin?"

Changbin hesitated, his gaze flickering away for a moment.

"Don't lie to me," Hyunjin warned, his voice low and cutting.

Changbin sighed, reluctantly meeting Hyunjin's gaze. "I saw you with him...with Felix," he admitted.

Hyunjin's eyes widened, a wave of embarrassment washing over him. "And? How long have you been following us?"

"Once you left your studio and arrived at the restaurant I left," Changbin said firmly. "When Lee Know called and said you weren't at the headquarters this morning I drove back here and found your car and tracked you down here from there."

Hyunjin studied him for a long moment, his piercing gaze making Changbin shift uncomfortably. Finally, he spoke, his tone icy and authoritative. "You'll keep everything you saw to yourself. Do you understand me?"

Changbin nodded. "Of course, Boss."

"Swear it," Hyunjin pressed, his eyes narrowing.

"I swear," Changbin said, his voice steady despite the weight of Hyunjin's scrutiny.

Hyunjin leaned forward, getting closer to Changbin, "Good. Because if I hear even a whisper about this..." His voice trailed off, but the threat was clear.

"You won't," Changbin said quietly. "I wouldn't do that to you."

For a moment, the two of them stood in silence, the tension hanging heavy in the air. "But you would follow me," Hyunjin let out a long sigh, his voice quieter now. "You can tell Lee Know I'm fine. No more no less, and if he asked you to follow me again you better tell me."

Changbin hesitated, torn between respecting Hyunjin's wish for independence and fulfilling Lee Know's request. "I'll let him know," he said, carefully.

Hyunjin nodded, though he didn't look convinced. "You can go now," he said, his voice regaining some of its usual authority.

Changbin left without another word. Guilt racked his brain as he drove away, watching Hyunjin close the door. Well, this took an unexpected turn, he thought. He needed to figure out what to tell Lee Know, without having the older suspect anything else.

Hyunjin sat back down on the bed, staring at the empty spot. His heart ached from the hurt he was feeling, but he had bigger issues. Lee Know was having him followed this could but him in a dangerous position.

Chapter Text

The ride back to Seoul felt like it lasted an eternity. Felix slouched in the passenger seat, staring out the window as the city skyline grew closer. I.N.'s voice filled the car, his tone sharp and persistent as he lectured Felix for disappearing overnight without so much as a text.

"Hyung, you're not even listening to me, are you?" I.N asked with a sigh.

Felix rested his temple against the cool glass of the window. "I heard you," he muttered. "I know it was reckless."

"Reckless doesn't even begin to cover it," I.N. snapped, his knuckles tightening on the steering wheel. His voice carried an edge, but Felix could hear the concern buried beneath the anger. "Do you have any idea what went through my head when you didn't answer your phone? After everything that's happened to you, and after that kidnapping? What were we supposed to think?"

Felix sighed heavily, leaning further into the window. "I told you, I'm fine. I wasn't in danger."

"Fine?" I.N. scoffed, his voice rising. "You disappear to Incheon with some guy we barely know anything about? Do you even hear yourself?"

Felix closed his eyes, pinching the bridge of his nose. He didn't have the energy to argue, not when his mind was still tangled up with thoughts of Hyunjin. "I.N., I don't have the energy for this."

"You never do when it comes to stuff like this," I.N. shot back, his frustration bubbling over. "You think you can just shoulder everything on your own, don't you? But what happens when you can't? What happens when...."

"I said I'm fine," Felix cut him off, his voice colder than he intended.

The tension in the car thickened, neither of them speaking for a moment. I.N.'s lips pressed into a thin line as he focused on the road, the silence more suffocating than Felix anticipated. He didn't mean to snap, but the weight of the night and the younger's words pressed heavily on him.

As the city skyline began to rise in the distance, I.N. broke the silence again, his voice quieter this time. "Look, hyung...I'm just trying to understand. Ever since we got you back, you've been distant. You act like everything's normal, but it's not. It's like you're trying to outrun something, and I don't know how to help."

Felix kept his gaze on the approaching city, unable to meet I.N.'s eyes. "I'm not trying to outrun anything," he said, though the words felt hollow even to himself.

I.N. glanced at him, a mix of worry and exasperation in his expression. "You don't have to do this alone, you know. You've got us, you've got me. We're your team, hyung. Trust us to have your back."

Felix didn't respond, his thoughts too tangled to form a reply. The truth was, I.N. wasn't wrong. The cracks in his will had been growing wider, and the more he tried to patch them up, the more they seemed to spread.

When they finally pulled into the compound's underground garage, Felix let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. The familiar surroundings should have brought him comfort, but instead, they only reminded him of the responsibilities waiting for him inside.

I.N. parked the car and turned to Felix, his serious gaze softening slightly. "I mean it, hyung. Don't shut us out."

Felix nodded faintly, opening the door and stepping out without another word. He knew I.N. meant well, but he wasn't ready to let anyone see just how deeply the past months had shaken him.

The compound buzzed with activity, the low hum of voices and the clatter of keyboards filling the air. Felix barely had time to shake off his exhaustion before Chan spotted him.

"Felix," Chan called, his expression a mix of relief and frustration. "Glad to see you in one piece."

Felix nodded, following Chan down the hallway and into the familiar space. His mind still heavy with the weight of the night. The doubt, the frustration, the lingering thoughts of Hyunjin, they all swirled together creating a storm in his mind he couldn't escape.

By the time they reached the briefing room, Felix was no closer to sorting through the mess in his head. Right now, there were bigger things at stake. And no matter how tangled his own thoughts were, the mission had to come first. The walls were lined with case files, maps, and photos, all centered around one goal: dismantling the elusive Snake Eye Gang and their leader.

"You've got a lot of explaining to do," Chan said, closing the door behind them.

Felix sank into a chair, running a hand through his hair. "I know. I'm sorry. I just...needed some air."

"Air?" Chan repeated, raising an eyebrow. "You vanished for hours, didn't answer your phone, and then I find out you were in Incheon? Felix, what the hell is going on?"

Felix hesitated, the weight of Hyunjin's presence still pressing on his mind. He couldn't tell Chan everything, not yet. "I was with someone," he admitted. "It wasn't anything dangerous, I promise."

Chan's eyes narrowed, but he didn't press further. Instead, he moved to the table in the center of the room, where a stack of files waited. "Fine. But we've got bigger problems right now."

Felix straightened, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten. "What's going on?"

Chapter Text

Chan didn't waste time. He pointed to the whiteboard, where a name had been circled in red: Seo Changbin.

"This is one of the Snake Eye's lieutenants," Chan began, tapping the name. "His name has popped up in some of the survelliance we have done on Lee Know. We've started watching Changbin's movements, and he's been making more frequent stops in the city. We think it's tied to their drugs smuggling operation. The issue is, Changbin isn't just moving weapons anymore, he's expanding their network."

Felix leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Expanding how?"

"We've intercepted chatter," Chan said, crossing his arms. "There's talk of a new chemist, creating a more dangerous drug."

Felix frowned, processing the information. "Do we have any leads on where this new chemist might be operating?"

"Not yet," Chan admitted. "But we're working on it. Seungmin is going through CCTV footage as we speak. In the meantime..."

He turned to the second section of the board, where another name was written: Lee Minho.

Felix's brow furrowed. "Lee Know?"

Chan nodded. "The surveillance we've been running on him came back with more intel. We already suspected he was managing several high-level operations for the Snake Eye Clan, but it's worse than we thought. He's not just an enforcer....It seems like he's second in command. He's orchestrating their distribution lines. Drugs, weapons, even human trafficking. If that's not bad enough on its own, but Lee Know is being a lot more careful than usual. He's changed vehicles multiple times, switched up his routes. Someone's giving him advice, and we need to figure out who."

Felix's stomach churned at the last part, but he stayed silent as Chan continued.

"What's even more troubling," Chan said, "is that Lee Know seems to have contacts outside the gang. Politicians, businessmen, maybe even police, people with enough power to shield the Snake Eye Clan from law enforcement."

Felix exhaled sharply. "So he's probably the reason we keep hitting walls."

"Exactly," Chan said, his voice tense. "He's not just dangerous because of his position in the gang. He's dangerous because of the connections he's made outside of it. And if we don't find a way to dismantle his network soon, it's only going to get harder to take them down."

Felix sat at the head of the table in the team's pit, scanning the files and reports laid out in front of him. The tension in the room was evident, the weight of their current mission pressing down on them. They way their way out to the pit where his team was awaiting his orders.

"Alright," Felix began, his voice calm but commanding, "here's where we stand." Pulling up the picture of Changbin, that they pulled from surveillance. Felix turned to Chan. "Changbin has to be visiting this new chemist to monitor the production of this new drug. Chan, you're leading the field surveillance. I want you to stake out his known meeting spots and intercept any of his shipments."

Chan nodded, his jaw set. "Understood. I'll gear up and be ready to move within the hour."

Felix pulled up a picture of Lee Know next. "Now, Lee Know. The surveillance we've been running on him came back with new intel. He's more than just a second in command, he's the one running their logistics, from weapons and drugs to human trafficking. He's also the reason we keep hitting walls. His connections go deep, politicians, corporate heads, you name it. We need to cut off his supply lines and figure out who he's working with outside of their orginzation. If we can isolate him, we can destabilize a major portion of the Snake Eye Clan."

He glanced over at Seungmin, who was already typing on his laptop. "Seungmin, I need you to dive into Lee Know's encrypted channels. Find out who he's been talking to and what routes they're using to move their merchandise. Use whatever tools you need."

"Got it," Seungmin said without looking up, his fingers already flying across the keyboard.

He locked eyes with I.N. "I.N., you're handling comms. I need you to monitor everything—police chatter, private networks, anything that could give us a heads-up on their next move. Keep us updated in real time, and if you find anything actionable, I want to know immediately."

"Yes, sir," I.N. replied, his voice steady despite the pressure.

Felix turned to Han next. "Han, be on standby. We're going to need you ready to extract Chan or tail Lee Know if he slips through the cracks. Keep the vehicle prepped at all times."

Han gave a small salute, his usual cocky grin replaced with a focused expression. "I'll make sure we're ready to roll."

Finally, Felix addressed the group as a whole, his tone firm. "This isn't just about taking down one man or even one operation. The Snake Eye Clan has been running circles around us for too long. If we can sever their logistics and cripple their leadership, we'll finally get the upper hand."

Felix looked around the room. "But I won't lie to you this is going to be dangerous. These men are ruthless and protected by people with power. They're going to fight back, and they're going to fight dirty. I trust all of you to have each other's backs out there. We don't take risks we can't handle, and we don't leave anyone behind. Clear?"

"Yes, sir!" the team responded in unison.

Felix's eyes scanned his team one last time. Despite the immense responsibility on his shoulders, he trusted them completely. Each of them brought something invaluable to the table, and together, they were unstoppable.

"Alright," Felix said, grabbing his tablet and heading for the door. "Let's get to work."

As the team dispersed to prepare, Felix lingered in the hallway after dismissing the team, leaning against the wall and staring at the polished floor beneath his boots. The sharp, confident orders he had just given echoed faintly in his mind, but now, in the quiet, an uneasy thought crept in, Hyunjin. Doubt tugged at him, and for the first time, Felix questioned whether his instincts were leading him toward the truth or deeper into danger.

Chapter Text

Felix clenched his jaw, frustrated with himself. He had come so far in his career by being meticulous, by never letting emotions cloud his judgment. Yet, every time Hyunjin crossed his mind, he felt his resolve waver. Something about that man unnerved him, not in the way suspects or criminals usually did, but in the way that made him question his instincts.

Felix sighed, running a hand through his hair. Hyunjin, the mysterious, magnetic man he had spent the night with, still felt like a mystery. And now, there were pieces of the puzzle that didn't quite fit. Why would someone like him even cross paths with me? He asked himself.

He shook his head, trying to push the doubt aside. But the unease persisted, lingering like a shadow. Hyunjin was so polished, so composed, even when asleep, he had seemed almost otherworldly, his sharp features softened by the glow of morning light. That image, frozen in Felix's mind, only made the guilt dig deeper.
Felix hadn't said goodbye. Hadn't even left a note.

Hyunjin had been fast asleep, his breathing steady, his body relaxed in a way that he couldn't bring himself to disturb. He had stood at the edge of the bed for what felt like forever, watching the rise and fall of the older's chest, debating whether he should stay. But in the end, he didn't.

Felix had grabbed his things in silence, his every step careful not to wake Hyunjin. The moment he crossed the threshold of the room, closing the door quietly behind him, an overwhelming sense of regret had gripped him.

Felix told himself it was the right thing to do. The night they'd shared had been... unexpected. Intense. But it was a distraction, one he couldn't afford, not with the Snake Eye Clan breathing down his neck. Hyunjin deserved better than a fleeting connection with someone who couldn't offer more. And Felix well, he didn't have time to figure out what any of it meant.
But even now, hours later, he couldn't stop thinking about it. About Hyunjin. About how he had left without even giving the man a choice to say goodbye.

The logical part of Felix's brain tried to reason it out. Maybe Hyunjin was just someone passing through his life, a fleeting connection born from a night of chaos and poor judgment. But that same logic, the sharp instincts that had kept him alive in countless dangerous situations told him there was something more. Something he couldn't see yet.

He leaned back in his chair, staring at the blank ceiling of his office. The Snake Eye Clan was his priority. They were the threat he had to neutralize, the puzzle he had to solve. But no matter how hard he tried to shift his focus, Hyunjin's shadow lingered, taunting him.

What if Hyunjin isn't just a distraction? The thought crept in, unwelcome but persistent. What if he's connected to all of this?

Felix exhaled sharply, standing up and pacing the small space of his office. He didn't have time for this. He couldn't afford to let personal thoughts cloud his judgment, not when the mission was on the line.

"Focus," he muttered to himself, his voice low and firm. "You have a job to do. Everything else is secondary."

But as he stood there, alone with his thoughts, the battle in his mind raged on. The rational part of him screamed that it was over, that he should move on. Yet the gnawing curiosity, the unanswered questions, refused to let go.

Felix glanced at his phone on the desk, the screen dark and unassuming. The urge to text Hyunjin tugged at him, a small, reckless temptation he had been resisting all day.

Felix sat back down, glaring at the phone as though it were the source of his turmoil. Don't do it, he told himself. It would only complicate things further, and the last thing he needed was more complications.

Minutes passed, his internal war dragging on until his resolve finally cracked. Against his better judgment, he grabbed the phone and opened the messaging app. His fingers hesitated over the keyboard, his chest tightening as doubt clawed at him.

Finally, he typed out a simple message:

Hey, it's Felix. I just wanted to make sure you're okay. Thanks for... everything.

He stared at the words, debating whether to delete them, but before he could think too much, he hit send.

The message delivered. And then nothing.

Felix leaned back, his phone still in his hand as the minutes ticked by. The silence felt deafening, the empty screen mocking him. He told himself not to care, that it didn't matter whether Hyunjin replied or not.

But as the hours stretched on and his phone remained silent, Felix couldn't help the sinking feeling in his chest. He had reached out, crossed a line he told himself he wouldn't. And now, he was left with nothing but questions, doubts, and a guilt that he couldn't shake.

He put the phone down and pushed himself back into work, but even as he buried himself in files and reports, the absence of Hyunjin's reply lingered. It wasn't just disappointment, though that gnawed at him too, it was the growing certainty that Hyunjin was more than he seemed. And that Felix had left him behind far too quickly.

Chapter Text

Hyunjin's art studio was in shambles, a physical manifestation of the chaos inside him. Overturned canvases littered the room, their surfaces slashed with harsh strokes of black and red. Brushes lay discarded, some broken in fits of rage, while streaks of paint marred the once-pristine walls. It was the kind of mess he'd never allowed before, but nothing seemed to matter anymore. Not his pride. Not his control. Not the careful image of composure he always maintained.

The studio, his sanctuary, now felt suffocating. Hyunjin stood amidst the wreckage of half-finished pieces, broken palettes, and canvases he'd destroyed in fits of frustration. The chaos was a mirror of his mind, his anger simmering just beneath the surface, threatening to boil over at any moment.

He paced the room, running a trembling hand through his disheveled hair. His chest felt heavy, each breath strained and uneven. He wasn't sure if he was furious at Felix, or at himself. Maybe it was both.

Felix.

The name was a curse in his mind, sparking a fresh wave of bitterness and pain. Hyunjin had played his part perfectly, kept his guard up and his motives hidden, just like he always did. Felix was supposed to be nothing more than a pawn, a temporary distraction he could manipulate to gain leverage for his own agenda. That had been the plan, a cold, calculated move in the intricate game Hyunjin played so well.

But somehow, everything had gone wrong.

Hyunjin's jaw clenched as he grabbed a nearby paintbrush, his grip so tight it threatened to snap. "How dare he," he muttered, his voice barely audible over the pounding in his ears. He hurled the brush across the room, watching as it hit the wall with a dull thud, leaving a streak of red in its wake.

He'd been so careful, so deliberate. Yet Felix had undone him, piece by piece, without even trying. There was something about him, the way his eyes softened when he spoke, the quiet strength he carried, the way he made Hyunjin feel seen in a way that no one else ever had. It was infuriating.

And now, Felix left him.

The thought gnawed at him, each repetition stinging more than the last. He'd let his walls down, even if only slightly, and Felix had slipped through his fingers like sand. It was ridiculous, really. Hyunjin wasn't the type to lose control, not like this. He'd mastered the art of keeping people at arm's length, of never letting anyone see the cracks beneath his polished exterior.

But Felix had seen. And that scared him.

He sank onto a stool, burying his face in his hands as the memories came flooding back. "Why did I let him in?" Hyunjin whispered, his voice trembling with a mix of anger and something far more dangerous: vulnerability.

The anger swelled again, pushing him to his feet. He grabbed a fresh canvas, slamming it onto the easel with more force than necessary. He squeezed black paint onto the palette, letting it spill over the edges before picking up a brush. His strokes were harsh, erratic, the bristles digging into the canvas as if he could exorcise his emotions through sheer force.

But no matter how hard he painted, the knot in his chest refused to loosen. The rage, the hurt, the betrayal, it was all still there, simmering just beneath the surface.

Hyunjin slammed the canvas to the floor, the sound echoing through the studio. His breath hitched, and he dragged both hands through his hair, tugging at the strands as if the pain could drown out the ache in his chest.

This wasn't supposed to happen. He wasn't supposed to feel like this, hurt, betrayed, raw. Felix had been a tool, a means to an end. That was all. Yet here he was, left to pick up the pieces of something he couldn't even name.

His gaze landed on his phone, sitting abandoned on the cluttered table. He hadn't touched it since waking up that morning, half hoping Felix would reach out, half dreading that he wouldn't.

As if on cue, the phone buzzed, the sound cutting through the silence of the studio like a blade. Hyunjin froze, his breath catching in his throat. Slowly, he walked over, his heart pounding as the screen lit up with a name he both longed and loathed to see.

Felix.

Hyunjin stared at the message, his jaw tightening as his emotions warred within him. He hesitated for a moment before picking up the phone, his fingers trembling slightly as he opened the message.

"Hey, it's Felix. I just wanted to make sure you're okay. Thanks for... everything."

The words were polite. Empty. And yet, they hit like a punch to the gut. Hyunjin's lips twisted into a bitter smile as he reread the message, his chest tightening with every word. Thanks for everything. As if their night together, the vulnerability Hyunjin had shown, could be neatly tied up and dismissed with a simple "thanks."

His grip on the phone tightened as a fresh wave of anger surged through him. Felix didn't get to do this. He didn't get to leave and then act like nothing had happened, like Hyunjin was just another chapter in his story.

The first instinct was to reply, to lash out, to demand an explanation, to let Felix know just how much damage he'd done. But as Hyunjin stood there, staring at the screen, he realized the truth he didn't want to admit.

It wasn't just anger he felt. It was hurt.

The phone buzzed again, the notification lingering as if mocking him. Hyunjin set it down on the table, his hands shaking as he turned away. He couldn't bring himself to respond, not yet. Maybe not ever.

Instead, he picked up his brush and turned back to the canvas, his strokes slower this time, more deliberate. The anger was still there, but now it was laced with something softer, something he didn't want to name.

"Thanks for everything," he muttered under his breath, his voice dripping with sarcasm as he worked.

But even as he tried to lose himself in the painting, the ache in his chest refused to fade. Felix had left more than just a mess in his wake. He had left cracks in the walls Hyunjin had spent years building, and no amount of paint could cover them up.

He stared at the chaos he'd created in the studio, Hyunjin realized the truth he didn't want to admit. Felix hadn't just left him feeling vulnerable. He'd left him exposed. And no matter how hard Hyunjin tried to convince himself otherwise, he knew he couldn't go back to who he was before.

Not after Felix.

Chapter Text

Several days had passed, but Felix couldn't get Hyunjin out of his mind. He had overheard someone mention the launch of Hyunjin's latest pieces at HH Art, and curiosity had gnawed at him until he finally caved. Standing in front of the gallery now, Felix hesitated, feeling an unfamiliar sense of unease. He wasn't sure if he was here to see the art or if he was hoping to see Hyunjin. Maybe both.

The gallery buzzed softly with patrons murmuring about the bold, emotional pieces on display. Felix moved quietly through the space, his steps slowing as he approached the first painting. It was dark and chaotic, with jagged streaks of black and red that seemed to claw at the canvas. The anguish in it was almost suffocating, and Felix felt the weight of it settle heavily in his chest.

Each subsequent piece seemed to dig deeper, exposing raw pain and fury in every brushstroke. Felix recognized the feelings buried in the artwork because they mirrored his own guilt. The pieces weren't just emotional, they were a direct reflection of what he had done, of the hurt he had caused.

He paused in front of the centerpiece, a massive canvas awash in muted grays and blacks. At its core was a sharp streak of gold, slicing through the despair like a scar. It was breathtaking, but more than that, it felt deeply personal. Felix's jaw tightened as he stood there, unable to shake the feeling that this was Hyunjin's way of exposing the vulnerability he had so carefully hidden that night.

"Excuse me," a voice interrupted, pulling Felix from his thoughts. He turned to see a sharply dressed gallery assistant watching him closely. "Mr. Hwang has requested to see you upstairs."

Felix blinked, caught off guard. "Hyunjin wants to see me?"

The assistant offered a polite but tight-lipped smile. "If you'll follow me."

Felix's pulse quickened as he followed the assistant up the elevator. He wasn't sure what to expect, but he prepared himself for the worst. At the top, he was led through those familiar dark heavy doors. Hyunjin was there, standing by the window with his back to the door, his posture stiff and his arms crossed.

"You're bold to show up here," Hyunjin said coldly, not even turning around as Felix stepped inside. His voice carried an edge that sent a chill down Felix's spine.

Felix shut the door behind him, his hands at his sides. "I wanted to see your work."

Hyunjin finally turned, his gaze sharp and unyielding. "And? Do you like it?" His tone was almost mocking. "Does it make you feel something, Felix? Pain, maybe? Betrayal? Guilt?"

Felix flinched but forced himself to meet Hyunjin's gaze. "I deserve that," he admitted, his voice steady but low. "What I did...it was wrong. I hurt you, and I can't change that. But I wanted to see you. I wanted to apologize."

Hyunjin let out a bitter laugh, his expression hardening. "You wanted to apologize? After what? Sneaking out while I was still asleep? Sending me that pathetic excuse of a text days later? You've got some nerve."

Felix swallowed hard. "I panicked. That night... it wasn't just casual for me. It scared me how much I felt. I didn't know how to handle it, so I ran. It wasn't fair to you, and I know that now."

"Scared?" Hyunjin repeated, his voice icy. "You think I wasn't scared, Felix? I let you in...I trusted you. I never do that. But you just walked out and left me to deal with the fallout."

Felix stepped closer, his voice softening. "I know I broke your trust, Hyunjin. I can't undo what I did, but I want to make it right. I want to try."

Hyunjin's jaw tightened, his arms still crossed. "Why should I let you? How do I know you won't just run again the moment things get too real for you?"

"You don't," Felix said honestly. "But I'm standing here now, aren't I? I could've stayed away, but I didn't. Because you matter to me, Hyunjin. That night mattered to me."

Hyunjin's gaze flickered, the faintest crack in his armor showing before he quickly steeled himself again. "You think words are enough? That showing up here after days of silence is going to fix everything?"

"No," Felix admitted, his voice earnest. "But I want to try. Let me prove to you that I'm not going to run again."

Hyunjin's eyes searched Felix's face, the tension in the room thick enough to cut with a knife.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Hyunjin exhaled sharply and looked away. "You're a stubborn bastard, you know that?"

Felix managed a faint smile, relief washing over him. "Is that a yes?"

Hyunjin turned back to him, his expression still guarded. "It's not a no. But don't think for a second that you're off the hook."

"I wouldn't expect to be," Felix said, his smile growing. "So... how about dinner? A real date this time. No running. Just us."

Hyunjin's lips twitched, but he quickly hid it behind a cool facade. "Fine. But only because I'm curious to see if you can actually keep your word."

"I will," Felix promised.

Hyunjin's gaze lingered on him for a moment before he turned back to the window, his voice softer this time. "Don't make me regret this."

"I won't," Felix said, his voice steady.

For the first time in days, Felix felt like he had a chance to make things right. But as he left the lounge, he couldn't ignore the tension still simmering between them. Hyunjin had let him back in, but it was clear the scars Felix had left wouldn't heal so easily. And that, Felix thought, was something he'd have to earn.

Chapter Text

The tension from his interaction with Hyunjin still lingered in Felix's mind as he and his team prepared for the upcoming raid. He paced the compound, his boots echoing sharply against the concrete floor. Around him, his team was focused, checking weapons and reviewing intel, but Felix's head wasn't entirely in the game.

Hyunjin's voice echoed in his mind. "Don't make me regret this."

The bitterness in those words lingered like an open wound. Felix clenched his fists, forcing himself to push the thoughts aside. Now wasn't the time for distraction.

"Felix," Seungmin called, breaking his train of thought. "We've got confirmation. It looks like they're preparing to relocate."

Felix nodded, his professional mask snapping back into place. "Good work. Tell the team to gear up. We move out in 20."

As Seungmin left, Felix grabbed his phone and tucked it into his pocket, hesitating for a fraction of a second before turning back to the mission at hand.

Whatever was going on with Hyunjin, it would have to wait. But as Felix secured his gear and stepped out to lead his team into the night, he couldn't shake the nagging thought that Hyunjin was more than a distraction. He was a storm Felix hadn't seen coming, and one he wasn't sure he could weather.

The air inside the warehouse was damp and stale, thick with the acrid scent of motor oil and the faint, sickly-sweet aroma of something rotting in the corner. Felix moved in silence, his steps measured as his team fanned out behind him. The only sounds were the soft hum of the generators and the distant creak of the building's structure settling under the weight of the night.

He signaled with two fingers, and the team split, slipping into the shadows like phantoms. Felix's heart thumped steadily in his chest, his breathing controlled as his sharp eyes scanned the dimly lit space. Stacks of wooden crates lined the walls, some marked with foreign symbols, others with faded warning labels.

Near the center of the warehouse, a group of men huddled around a table cluttered with weapons, maps, and bundles of cash. The dim overhead lights cast harsh shadows across their faces, their expressions tense as they argued in hushed tones.

Felix counted them quickly...six. Armed. One leaned casually against a crate, a cigarette dangling from his lips, his rifle propped lazily against the table. Another sat sharpening a knife, the blade catching the light with each slow, deliberate stroke.

Felix crouched behind a stack of crates, holding up a closed fist to signal his team to hold their positions. He activated his earpiece, speaking in a low whisper. "Six targets in the central zone. All armed. Stay sharp."

A crackling confirmation came through his comms, followed by the faint rustle of movement as his team adjusted their positions.

"Move on my mark," Felix murmured, his voice calm but commanding.

The seconds stretched out, heavy with anticipation. Felix's eyes flicked to the far end of the room, where Chan and Seungmin were preparing to flank. He waited until they were in position before giving the signal.

"Now."

The warehouse exploded into chaos.

The sound of flashbangs shattered the tense silence, the bright white bursts blinding the targets and disorienting them. Felix moved swiftly, his pistol drawn and aimed with precision.

"Hands in the air!" Felix's voice was sharp and unyielding as he advanced, his weapon trained on the nearest man.

One of the targets, the smoker, recovered quickly, reaching for his rifle. Felix fired a single shot, the round tearing through the weapon's stock and sending it skittering across the concrete floor.

The others scrambled, their chairs toppling over as they reached for their weapons. Felix's team was faster. Gunfire echoed through the cavernous space as his agents neutralized the immediate threats with controlled precision.

Felix ducked behind a steel beam as bullets ricocheted off the crates near him. His pulse pounded in his ears, but his focus was razor-sharp. He leaned out just enough to fire twice, dropping another target with shots to the shoulder and leg.

"Target down, non-lethal," he called into his earpiece.

To his left, Chan grappled with a knife-wielding assailant, the clash of steel filling the air. Felix moved quickly, closing the distance and delivering a swift, calculated blow to the attacker's temple with the butt of his pistol. The man crumpled to the ground, unconscious.

"Clear left!" Seungmin shouted as the last of the targets were subdued.

Felix scanned the room, his weapon still raised as his team secured the scene. The warehouse was in shambles, overturned tables, scattered weapons, and splashes of blood against the concrete floor told the story of the brief but intense firefight.

"All targets down," Felix confirmed, lowering his weapon. "Sweep the area for additional hostiles and secure the evidence. I want everything cataloged and ready for transport within the hour."

As his team moved to carry out his orders, Felix stood amidst the chaos, his gaze drifting to the table at the center of the room. He couldn't ignore the unease settling in his chest, not from the raid but from the thoughts that had plagued him all day.

Hyunjin's words echoed in his mind, sharp and biting. "Don't make me regret this."

Felix clenched his jaw, pushing the thought away as he surveyed the scene one last time.

Chapter Text

As the adrenaline from the raid faded, Felix took a slow breath, trying to settle the unease that still clung to him. His team worked efficiently around him, securing the weapons and documents they had seized from the Snake Eye Clan's operation. The night had been a success, their intel had been solid, and they had dismantled another key part of the gang's supply chain.

But despite that victory, Felix's mind refused to quiet, there was a quiet unease gnawing at him. It had nothing to do with the mission.

It had everything to do with Hyunjin.

Felix exhaled sharply, dragging a gloved hand over his face. Now wasn't the time. He needed to finish processing the scene, interrogate the survivors, and comb through the evidence. Yet, no matter how much he tried to force his mind back to the job, Hyunjin's words from their last meeting echoed in his head.

"Don't make me regret this."

Felix had promised he wouldn't. But standing there, surrounded by the wreckage of another brutal confrontation, he wondered if he was lying to himself.

He crouched beside the fallen table, sweeping aside some of the scattered papers. Maps, smuggling routes, and financial records, everything they needed to tighten the noose around the Snake Eye Clan. Yet, his focus drifted when he caught sight of something tucked beneath the pile. A sleek black folder, marked with a simple insignia that made his stomach drop.

HH Art

Felix's breath hitched as he flipped the folder open, his sharp eyes scanning the contents. There were transaction logs, shipment lists, and several documents detailing a high-level meeting between the Snake Eye Clan and another organization. His pulse quickened as he scanned the page, and there it was, Hwang Hyunjin.

His blood ran cold.

Felix barely registered the way his fingers tightened around the folder. The name stood out like a beacon, confirmation of something he had suspected but refused to acknowledge. Hyunjin wasn't just an artist with a hidden past. He was involved. Deeply involved.

"Felix."

He startled slightly at the sound of Chan's voice. Straightening, Felix turned to see Chan approaching, his brows furrowed. "We need to move out soon. Reinforcements could be inbound, and we don't want to stick around for round two."

Felix nodded, snapping the folder shut. "Understood. Make sure all the evidence is accounted for, we'll analyze it back at HQ."

Chan studied him for a moment, something unreadable flickering in his eyes. "You alright?"

Felix forced a neutral expression, pushing down the storm brewing inside him. "Yeah. Just focused."

Chan didn't look convinced, but he didn't press further. "Good. Let's wrap this up."

As Chan turned to bark orders at the team, Felix tucked the folder into his tactical vest, the weight of it heavier than it should have been. His mind raced as they secured the scene and prepared to head back to headquarters.

Hyunjin had told him to not make him regret this. But had Felix been the one walking into something he was going to regret?

The mission came first. It always did.

And yet, as Felix climbed into the transport vehicle, gripping the folder tightly in his hands, he realized that for the first time, his heart was at war with his duty.

And he wasn't sure which would win.

Later that night Felix sat alone in his apartment, staring at the evidence laid out on his table. He had access to every file they'd pulled from the raid, transaction logs, encrypted communications, lists of contacts. He knew he should be combing through them with the same meticulous focus he always had. But his thoughts kept circling back to one thing.

Hyunjin.

Felix reached for his phone, his fingers hovering over the screen. He had promised to prove himself, to show Hyunjin he wouldn't run again. But what if that promise was already broken? What if he was standing on the edge of something neither of them could come back from?

Before he could stop himself, he opened his messages.

No new texts. Hyunjin still hadn't responded to his last message.

Felix clenched his jaw, the weight of it settling heavy in his chest. He had spent years mastering the art of detachment, separating emotions from the job, keeping personal feelings locked away where they couldn't interfere.

But Hyunjin had shattered that control without even trying.

And now, Felix didn't know what to do with the pieces.

He exhaled, forcing himself to type out a new message.

Hyunjin. Can we talk?

He stared at the words for a long moment before pressing send.

Seconds passed. Then minutes. No response.

Felix set his phone down, rubbing his hands over his face.

Maybe he was in over his head. Maybe this was a mistake.

But despite everything, the mission, the risks, the lines he knew he shouldn't cross, Felix couldn't ignore the truth gnawing at the edges of his mind.

He didn't want to let Hyunjin go.

Chapter Text

The briefing room was silent, the air thick with unspoken tension. Felix sat stiffly in his chair, his hands clasped together, knuckles white from the pressure. His heartbeat thundered in his ears, but outwardly, he maintained his usual cool exterior. Across the room, Seungmin stood at the front, his sharp eyes scanning the data displayed on the large screen. The map flickered, movement patterns traced in red and blue, a web of locations and timestamps.

"We ran through the comms and financial logs we confiscated from the warehouse," Seungmin began, his voice calm, methodical, far too composed for the bombshell he was about to drop. "One of the more recent transactions flagged a name we've been tracking for months." He swiped at the screen, and a name popped up in bold letters.

Seo Changbin.

A heavy silence settled over the room.

Seungmin adjusted his glasses, continuing as if he wasn't about to send Felix's world into a tailspin. "Based on this, Changbin was in Incheon three nights ago. He had a private meeting that lasted about two hours. The details are murky, but we know for a fact he was there."

Felix could feel the blood drain from his face. He swallowed thickly, keeping his expression carefully neutral. Three nights ago. Incheon. That was the night I was with Hyunjin.

I.N. who was sitting at the far end of the table, subtly flicked his gaze toward Felix. The unspoken tension between them was palpable. He was the only one who knew exactly where Felix had been that night—and who he had been with. His fingers drummed quietly against the table, a silent question in the movement.

Did you know about this?

Felix forced himself to take a deep breath, forcing the panic crawling up his throat back down. "Do we know who he met with?" he asked, his voice steady. He was proud that it didn't waver, even as his pulse pounded against his ribs.

Seungmin shook his head. "Not yet. We're still piecing together surveillance footage, but Changbin was careful. No direct financial trails linking to the meeting spot, no recorded calls during that timeframe. He was off the grid."

Chan, who had been listening intently, leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "That's too much of a coincidence," he muttered. "Changbin being in Incheon off grid is suspicious. What was he doing there? How is it connected to the Snake Eye's movements?"

Felix's stomach twisted into a knot. Hyunjin. Hyunjin had been in Incheon that night, too.

And now, Changbin, one of the Snake Eye Gang's top lieutenants, had been there at the same time.

Felix could barely breathe past the weight of it.Had Hyunjin known? Had he planned it? Was I just a distraction?

The doubt Felix had been struggling with for days curled its insidious claws deeper into his mind, his worst fears beginning to take shape. Had Hyunjin played him? Had he known exactly who Felix was that whole time, had he used him to throw him off track, to keep him tangled in something personal so he wouldn't see the bigger picture?

Felix tried to fight it, tried to hold onto what he thought he knew about Hyunjin. The vulnerable man he'd spent the night with. The raw emotions poured into the paintings at HH Art. The way Hyunjin had looked at him when he confronted him at the gallery, angry, hurt, betrayed. That hadn't been an act. Had it?

Chan was still talking, still analyzing, but Felix wasn't listening anymore. His world had narrowed down to the suffocating realization that his doubts weren't just paranoia anymore.

I.N. cleared his throat, cutting through Felix's spiraling thoughts. "We need to be careful," he said, his voice deliberately casual. But Felix knew him well enough to hear the unspoken warning beneath the words. "We don't want to make assumptions until we have something concrete."

It was a lifeline. A way to defuse the growing tension in the room before someone, before Chan, noticed that Felix was barely keeping it together.

Chan exhaled, nodding. "Agreed. We follow the leads, see where they take us. If Changbin is expanding operations, we'll find out how. If there's a connection to the Snake Eyes, we'll uncover it." He turned to Felix. "Who do you want on this?"

Felix looked around, "I.N, Dig through every piece of data we have, check the timelines, and see if anything overlaps. If Changbin was meeting with a contact in Incheon, I want to know who."

I.N forced a nod, his eyes still lingering with questions.

Seungmin moved on to another point, discussing intercepted messages from the Snake Eye Clan, but Felix barely heard him. His mind was spinning, his control slipping by the second.

The second the meeting ended, he bolted from his seat, striding down the hallway with no real destination, just a desperate need to breathe, to think. He hadn't even made it ten feet before I.N. fell into step beside him.

"You're freaking out," I.N. said bluntly.

Felix clenched his jaw. "I'm fine."

I.N. scoffed. "You're not fine. I saw your face in there, hyung. If Changbin had been anywhere else in the country that night, you wouldn't have batted an eye. But Incheon?" He shot Felix a look. "You're panicking. And I know why."

Felix stopped walking, rubbing a hand down his face. The hallway was empty, but he still lowered his voice. "You think I don't know how this looks?" he whispered harshly. "That night... I should have been working this case. Instead, I was with Hyunjin. And now Changbin..." He exhaled sharply. "I don't know what to think."

I.N. studied him for a moment. "Do you think Hyunjin set you up?"

Felix swallowed. "I don't want to believe that."

"But?"

"But I also can't ignore the fact that I was in Incheon, with him, while one of the most dangerous men we're tracking was also there." His voice was tight, like he was forcing the words out against his will. "What if it wasn't a coincidence?"

I.N. leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. "Do you trust him?"

Felix opened his mouth. Closed it. Did I?

The silence stretched between them before I.N. sighed. "Look. I don't have the answers. But I know you. You wouldn't be this messed up over it if you didn't think, at least somewhere deep down, that Hyunjin is more than just a suspect to you."

Felix clenched his jaw, his fists tightening at his sides. "That's the problem."

I.N. nodded slowly. "Then you need to decide, before this all catches up to you. Is he the enemy?"

Felix looked away, his throat tight. Or is he something else entirely?

Chapter Text

Three days. Seventy-two hours. Felix hadn't heard a word from Hyunjin.

The silence gnawed at him, sharper with each passing hour. His phone, which he had checked more times than he cared to admit, remained eerily still. No missed calls. No messages. Just an unrelenting, suffocating emptiness.

Felix tried to tell himself to stop waiting. Stop checking. Stop expecting anything. He could almost hear his own voice in his head, telling him to let go. But every time he looked at the screen, his chest tightened. The emptiness felt like a physical presence, sitting on his ribs, squeezing tighter with each silent moment.

The first night, he tried to sleep, but his mind wouldn't quiet. It was restless, churned with questions. Did I do something wrong? Did I push Hyunjin away? The second night, he barely managed to close his eyes at all, tossing and turning under the weight of the silence. After hours of trying to reason with himself, he picked up his phone again.

Felix: Hyunjin, please. Just answer me. I need to talk to you.

The message remained unread. And with it, his hope drained, leaving only the gnawing anxiety in its wake.

He felt it then something wasn't right. Felix had never been a patient man, especially when it came to things that mattered. And Hyunjin had become one of those things. Felix was far too aware of the fact that the longer the silence stretched, the more it felt like he was walking blindfolded through a maze of unanswered questions.

What was going on with Hyunjin? Was he ignoring me out of spite? Or worse, did something happen to him? The thought curled in Felix's mind, a thread of dread pulling him deeper into his own anxiety.

He couldn't shake the feeling that Hyunjin wasn't just avoiding him, he was hiding something. That thought made his stomach churn.

Felix had always trusted his instincts, a skill honed over years of working as a field agent. He knew how to track people, how to read a situation, how to follow a lead. He'd spent hours hunting down high-value targets, watching, waiting, and striking with precision. But Hyunjin wasn't just another target. Felix couldn't get a clear read on him. It wasn't just that Hyunjin was elusive. It was the way he moved, the way he disappeared. It felt like the older man was trying to erase himself from Felix's world altogether.

Felix had staked out HH Art, sitting in his car, watching the gallery's windows for any sign of Hyunjin. But nothing. No late-night visits. No hints of him lingering in the back of the building. The lights burned late into the night, but there was no one in sight.

Felix drummed his fingers against the steering wheel, his chest tight with frustration. His mind raced, spinning through all the possibilities. He had no leads, no sign of where Hyunjin had disappeared to. Every moment felt like a dead end.

He thought about running a trace. Felix had access to systems that could pinpoint someone's location in seconds. Tracking Hyunjin's phone would be easy, too easy. The temptation was there. His fingers hovered over the keyboard, fighting the impulse. If he tracked Hyunjin, he would find him, but he'd also cross a line. A line that separated his job, his duty from the man who had unwittingly carved himself into Felix's mind.

Felix closed his eyes for a moment, drawing in a deep, shaky breath. Stop. Think. Don't do this. His mind, though, was louder than his voice. But you're running out of time.

With a reluctant exhale, he gave in. His fingers flew over the screen, pulling up the secure trace application. He typed in Hyunjin's number, his heart pounding as the map loaded, the coordinates slowly blinking into focus.

It didn't take long for the screen to flicker, the dot stabilizing. Felix's stomach twisted as the location resolved.

Hyunjin wasn't at HH Art.

His heart skipped a beat. No, that wasn't it. The coordinates weren't anywhere near the gallery. It wasn't even close to any of the places Felix had expected. Instead, the location settled on a familiar area, Snake Eye territory. Felix's jaw clenched.

Hyunjin was there.

Felix's mind reeled, his thoughts spinning like a tornado. Snake Eye territory. That wasn't just a location, it was a war zone. A place Felix knew far too well. The Snake Eye Clan had its hands in everything, from smuggling to illegal gambling, from protection rackets to arms dealing. It was a criminal empire built on fear. And Hyunjin was nowhere near the safe, quiet art world that Felix had believed him to be. Hyunjin wasn't where he was supposed to be, he was somewhere dangerous. Somewhere that Felix had spent years infiltrating and hunting.

Why was Hyunjin there? Felix's thoughts whirled, battling each other. Was he meeting someone? Was he in trouble? His grip on the steering wheel tightened, knuckles going white. Felix's instincts screamed at him. There were too many unknowns. Too many variables. And he couldn't afford any more uncertainty.

Felix's mind wandered, memories surfacing without warning. The way Hyunjin had looked at him, the way their bodies had tangled up in shared vulnerability. But now, those memories felt distant, like he was remembering someone who didn't belong in the world he was racing through. Felix's heart thudded painfully, thinking back to when he had been captured. Felix's pulse quickened at the thought, his mind flashing back to the dark, cramped room he had been kept in when he was kidnapped.

The memory was vivid, searing. The damp, stale air of the room. The clinking of metal chains. The smell of blood, his own lingering in the air. It had been a different time, a different life. But the panic, the helplessness, that feeling of being swallowed up by something too big to fight, that feeling was something Felix had buried deep.

But now, it was creeping back, wrapping its cold fingers around his chest.

He hadn't thought about that time in months. He hadn't wanted to. But the truth was, no matter how much he tried to forget, the fear never truly left him. It never would. Felix had never fully recovered from the trauma. That part of his past had shaped him in ways he couldn't articulate. He had been broken then. And now, as he drove through the streets, with only a map and a pinpointed location, it felt like history was repeating itself. Hyunjin could be in danger, and Felix wasn't sure if he could save him.

Felix's breath hitched as the car slid through traffic, speeding faster, his mind caught between two worlds. One where Hyunjin was just another art-loving enigma and the other, the dangerous one, where Hyunjin's life was a threat just like Felix's had once been.

The coordinates weren't random. They never were. This wasn't just about tracking Hyunjin down. This wasn't just about confronting the older man for avoiding him.

This was bigger than that. Hyunjin had disappeared for a reason. And Felix was going to find out why.

Chapter Text

The streets here felt different. They always did. The air was thick with an undercurrent of tension, an electric hum that buzzed beneath the surface. Felix parked a block away, killing the engine, his mind already racing ahead to what he might find.

The building Hyunjin's phone had pinged from was Club Apep, a notorious hotspot for elites from both the legal and the illegal world. Felix knew this place well, too well. It wasn't just a nightclub. It was a battleground where deals were struck, alliances were formed, and secrets were bought and sold. He wasn't here for the music or the glitz. He was here for answers.

Felix adjusted his jacket, his sharp eyes scanning the entrance to the club. The line stretched down the block, filled with high-profile figures, politicians, and criminals alike, all eager to gain entry.

Felix bypassed the line, walking straight up to the entrance, his every step purposeful. Two bouncers stood guard at the doors, their expressions unreadable. One of them stepped forward, blocking Felix's path.

"Name?" the bouncer asked, his voice gruff, demanding.

Felix didn't hesitate. He reached into his wallet and slid a crisp one hundred into the man's palm. The bouncer barely blinked before pocketing the money.

"Inside," he grunted, stepping aside.

Felix's pulse quickened. He exhaled a slow breath, steeling himself, then entered the club, the pounding bass reverberating through his chest, mingling with the heavy stench of expensive perfume, sweat, and the lingering scent of burning cigars. The lights flashed in neon streaks, casting eerie shadows on the sleek black walls as he stepped into the chaos.

Felix moved through the crowd with practiced ease, blending seamlessly into the throng of writhing bodies and socialites sipping overpriced liquor. His eyes darted across the room, scanning for the one person he had come to find.

And there he was. Hyunjin.

Seated in the VIP lounge, dressed in black, his posture composed, his presence commanding. A glass of whiskey cradled in his hand. His expression was unreadable, detached from the noise around him. But Felix barely had time to take in the sight before his gaze shifted.

Seated beside Hyunjin was Seo Changbin.

Felix's stomach lurched. Changbin. The man Felix and his team had been tracking for days. A top lieutenant of the Snake Eye Clan. And here he was, sitting beside Hyunjin, laughing like old friends, sharing drinks like business partners. Felix's blood ran cold, his pulse quickening.

This is what you've been doing instead of answering me, Hyunjin? Sitting with criminals? Making deals with people I've sworn to bring down?

A bitter taste filled Felix's mouth. He clenched his fists, forcing himself to stay calm. Think. Don't react. This wasn't the time for emotions to cloud his judgment. He needed to stay focused.

Felix's eyes stayed locked on Hyunjin as he moved through the club, positioning himself closer to the VIP section without drawing attention. He needed to see, to hear, to understand what was happening. His instincts told him something was off, something deeper than just the surface games Hyunjin seemed to be playing.

From this vantage point, he could see Hyunjin clearly. The way his fingers tapped idly against his glass, the way his lips curved in amusement as Changbin leaned in, speaking in hushed tones. Felix strained to hear their conversation, but the pulsing music made it nearly impossible.

He caught snippets. Words that made his stomach twist.

"...shipment moving soon... police tightening security..."

Hyunjin hummed, swirling the amber liquid in his glass, his eyes steady as he spoke. "Then perhaps it's time we change our approach. I have... connections that could be useful."

Felix's chest tightened. Connections. Who was Hyunjin referring? Was it me?

The idea sent a cold shiver down Felix's spine. He fought the urge to storm over and confront him right then and there. Instead, he forced himself to stay hidden, observing. He needed proof. He needed answers before he made a move.

But just as Felix was deciding his next step, Hyunjin's eyes flicked upward, locking onto Felix's.

Felix froze, his breath catching in his throat. The moment felt suspended in time, their gazes colliding across the crowded room. Felix could almost feel the weight of Hyunjin's gaze, the sharp recognition in his dark eyes. Then, as if nothing had happened, Hyunjin smirked, the corner of his lips curling upwards in silent amusement.

Felix's hands curled into fists.

Hyunjin had seen him. Acknowledged him. And yet, he had chosen to ignore him, to dismiss him like a shadow at the edge of the room.

The brief eye contact sent a slow burn of frustration curling up Felix's spine, mixing with something more dangerous. Fine. If Hyunjin wanted to play games, Felix would play. But he wouldn't leave tonight without answers.

Felix's mind raced. Stay calm. Stay smart. The anger roiling in his stomach only made it harder to think clearly, but he had to. He needed to approach this with precision. For now, he remained in place, watching, waiting. Hyunjin leaned closer to Changbin, their exchange continuing in whispers, Felix unable to make out the words over the bass that vibrated through his chest.

Felix knew he had to be careful. Hyunjin was playing a game, but Felix couldn't tell yet if he was a pawn, a player, or something much more dangerous in the game Hyunjin was involved in.

Felix's fingers twitched, itching to grab his gun, to march over and drag Hyunjin out of the club, demand an explanation, tear the truth from him. But he knew better. This was Snake Eye territory. He was outnumbered, out of his element. He wasn't prepared for whatever role Hyunjin had decided to play in this dangerous world.

For now, Felix had to be smart. He had to gather the pieces of the puzzle before making his move. He couldn't risk blowing his cover, not when he was this close.

Hyunjin wasn't the man Felix had thought he was. He wasn't just some aloof artist, detached from the chaos of the criminal world. He was too close to people like Changbin, people like the Snake Eye Clan. Felix's stomach churned at the thought. He had seen Hyunjin's vulnerability. He had seen the side of him that no one else had. And now, here he was, in the heart of the criminal underworld, acting like he belonged.

Felix could walk away. He could report everything to his team, let the investigation unfold as it should. But that wasn't enough. Not when Hyunjin was the one who had become his problem. Felix wasn't just an officer tonight, he was someone personally invested. And that made everything harder. More dangerous.

As Felix observed Hyunjin, his mind wandered back to their time together, the moments they had shared. He remembered how close they had been, how easy it had felt to open up to Hyunjin. But now, Hyunjin was sitting there, comfortable with the very people Felix had spent years hunting.

The thought of Hyunjin playing him, using him, made something inside Felix twist painfully. But that wasn't the Hyunjin he knew. Or was it?

Felix didn't know anymore. But he wasn't leaving without answers.

Felix took a slow breath, forcing himself to stay in the shadows. His mind raced as he watched Hyunjin sip his drink, his body language calm, collected, untouchable. Even with men like Changbin beside him, Hyunjin still looked like he was in control.

But Felix knew better. He had seen the cracks in Hyunjin's armor. And tonight, he wasn't walking away until he saw them again.

Hyunjin wanted to play games? Fine. Felix thought. He could play too.

Chapter Text

With practiced ease, Felix slipped deeper into the crowd, his senses heightened as he approached the VIP section. His badge wouldn't get him anywhere here, this club was a kingdom ruled by people like Changbin, protected from law enforcement by layers of corruption and power. But Felix had worked long enough in the field to know that money talked.

He approached a bouncer standing near the entrance, slipping a folded hundred into his palm. "VIP section," he said coolly, his voice laced with authority.

The bouncer barely blinked, slipping the money into his pocket before stepping aside. "Go ahead," he grunted, not sparing Felix a second glance.

The air in the VIP area was thick, saturated with the scent of aged whiskey, expensive cigars, and the faintest hint of sweat. The pulsing music seemed distant here, muffled by the thick, velvet walls that separated business deals and whispered threats from the chaotic dance floors. This was a place where deals were made in shadows, where alliances were born and buried in the blink of an eye. Felix could almost taste the danger in the air.

Felix kept his posture relaxed, his movements smooth as he approached the lounge where Hyunjin sat. He could feel Hyunjin's gaze on him long before he reached the table, a steady pressure that seemed to pull at him from across the room. There was something in the way Hyunjin watched him, a subtle recognition, a flicker of surprise. Felix hadn't expected it.

When he finally stood before them, Hyunjin tilted his head slightly, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as he set his drink down.

"Well," Hyunjin drawled, his voice soft yet deliberate. "Didn't expect to see you here, Felix."

Felix's gut tightened, but he masked the flicker of emotion. Liar, he thought.

"Didn't expect to see you here either," Felix replied, sliding into the empty seat across from Hyunjin, ignoring Changbin for the moment. His voice was calm, but his heart was racing. He could feel the tension hanging between them like an invisible string, pulling tighter the longer he stayed.

Hyunjin smirked, leaning back in his seat, casual but with an edge of challenge in his demeanor. "Really? Because you seem to have found me rather quickly."

Felix's jaw tightened. "I have my ways."

Changbin's eyes widened the moment he recognized Felix. His grip on his drink tightened ever so slightly, but he quickly masked his surprise with a smile, leaning back in his chair. His mind, however, was already racing, wondering what Felix was doing here and why Hyunjin was looking so... unfazed.

"So," Changbin mused, glancing between the two of them, clearly sensing the sudden spike in tension, "who's your friend, Hyunjin?"

Felix shot Hyunjin a cold look, his words coming out deceptively calm. "Yeah, Hyunjin. Why don't you introduce me?"

Hyunjin's fingers drummed against his glass, his expression unreadable for a moment. Felix could almost hear his thoughts shifting, weighing how much to reveal. Finally, Hyunjin's lips curved into a slow, deliberate smile, though there was something sharp about the glint in his eyes.

"This?" Hyunjin said, leaning slightly forward and casting a glance at Felix, his smirk widening. "This is no one important."

Felix's stomach twisted, a sudden flare of heat and anger sparking deep in his chest. No one important?
The words hit him like a slap. Hyunjin had looked him in the eye and dismissed him as if he were nothing. Felix's hands curled into fists beneath the table, but he exhaled slowly, trying to control the heat that rose in his chest.

Alright, Hyunjin. If that's how you want to play it, fine.Felix forced his expression to remain neutral, but his voice was firm when he spoke again. "And you like to pretend you don't care when you do."

A flicker of something crossed Hyunjin's face, too quick for anyone else to notice, but Felix caught it. For just a second, Hyunjin's facade slipped, a crack in his cool, collected demeanor.

I'm getting to him, Felix thought, feeling a flicker of satisfaction deep in his gut.

Changbin exhaled through his nose, clearly unimpressed with the exchange. "Look," he said, his voice sliding from casual to sharp. "Unless you're here for business, I suggest you..."

"I'm here for him," Felix interrupted, his voice cutting through Changbin's words like a knife. It wasn't just a statement, it was a challenge. A declaration.

For a split second, Felix's expression flickered, something raw slipping through before he caught himself and masked it with something colder. But that brief moment didn't escape Changbin. His gaze shifted between Felix and Hyunjin, narrowing in on the undercurrent of something personal, something deeper than just business.

Felix wasn't here for answers about the Snake Eye Clan. He wasn't here to investigate. He was here for Hyunjin.

Hyunjin's lips parted slightly, the first real sign of surprise Felix had seen from him all night. The shock didn't last long, but Felix caught it, he could see it in the way Hyunjin's eyes widened for just a split second, before he regained control, setting his glass down with deliberate care.

"Brave of you," Hyunjin murmured, his voice low, but the amusement had shifted, something darker settling into his gaze. "But I don't recall inviting you."

Felix leaned in, close enough that only Hyunjin could hear him. His voice dropped to a whisper, but it was filled with intent. "That's never stopped me before."

Hyunjin inhaled sharply, and Felix could feel the change, the subtle shift in the air. It was like a crack in the armor, something exposed for just a moment before it was quickly sealed away. The space between them seemed to collapse, everything else fading away until it was just the two of them locked in a tense standoff.

For a brief moment, Hyunjin looked at him, his lips parting, something unspoken in the air between them. Then, just as quickly, he leaned back again, his mask sliding back into place, the smirk returning.

"You should leave," Hyunjin said, his voice low but still carrying an edge of authority.

Felix smiled, tilting his head slightly. "Not until you tell me what the hell you're doing here."

Hyunjin exhaled through his nose, shaking his head slightly, amusement still dancing in his eyes, though it was tinged with something darker now. "And if I don't?"

Felix shrugged. "Then I'll just have to stay."

Hyunjin studied him for a moment, his gaze searching, weighing something beneath the surface. The tension between them was palpable, almost suffocating in its intensity.

Changbin's unease deepened. If Felix was here for information, that was one thing. But if there was something personal between them, something more, then this was dangerous. For all of them.

Hyunjin was many things, but sentimental wasn't one of them. Or at least, he shouldn't be. But here he was, smirking like he had all the power in the world, like Felix's presence was nothing more than an inconvenience. Changbin wasn't so sure.

Hyunjin was playing with fire.

And Felix? Felix looked like he was ready to burn the whole place down just to get answers.

After a long, almost uncomfortable pause, Hyunjin stood. Felix followed suit immediately, his gaze locked onto Hyunjin as he moved.

Hyunjin turned to Changbin. "I'll be back," he said, his tone dismissive but still calm.

Changbin frowned, uncertainty flashing in his eyes for just a moment before he masked it with a curt nod. "Hyunjin..."

Hyunjin's gaze flicked to him, sharp and unwavering. "It's fine."

Felix didn't miss the hesitation in Changbin's expression. He knew the game was changing.

Chapter Text

The back alley was quiet, save for the soft rustle of trash bags caught by the wind and the occasional distant noise from the busy streets. Felix could feel his pulse quicken as he stepped further into the shadows. The moment he had been dreading had finally arrived. They were alone now, the city's underworld closing in around them, the night taking on a darker, more oppressive feel. Hyunjin was here, standing before him, and Felix was more uncertain than ever about what was coming next.

Hyunjin stood tall, his gaze unwavering as he crossed his arms over his chest. His usual cool and composed demeanor was on full display, but Felix could see the tightness in his jaw, the subtle shift in his posture that betrayed the crackling tension between them.

"What the fuck are you doing here?" Hyunjin's voice cut through the air, sharp and laced with an edge Felix hadn't expected. He stepped forward, his eyes scanning Felix's face, as though trying to see through him.

Felix's breath hitched, but he didn't flinch. He'd come too far to back down now. His gaze locked onto Hyunjin's, and with a slow breath, he finally let the words spill out.

"I could ask you the same thing," Felix's voice was steady, his anger just below the surface, but it didn't stop him from stepping closer to Hyunjin. "Sitting with a top commander in the Snake Eye Clan? What the hell are you involved in, Hyunjin?"

Hyunjin's eyes flickered, something flashing in them before he quickly masked it. Felix saw it, a quick vulnerability, a brief hesitation, but it was gone in an instant, replaced by that all-too-familiar indifference.

"You have no idea what you're talking about," Hyunjin replied, his voice low, as if dismissing Felix's words. "You don't know a damn thing about me or what I'm doing."

Felix took a step closer, his chest nearly brushing Hyunjin's. He could feel the tension thickening between them, the air charged with a mix of anger and confusion.

"I know enough," Felix shot back, his voice quiet but firm. "I know you're involved with people like Changbin, people who deal in death and destruction. I don't know why you're here with them, but I can't stand watching you pretend you're just some innocent bystander in this world."

Hyunjin's expression darkened at the words, the smirk from earlier vanishing entirely. Felix had hit a nerve. Good.

"You think you know everything about me?" Hyunjin said, his voice sharper now. "You think you understand this world? This life? You don't know the first thing about it." His eyes were cold now, but Felix could see something else, a flicker of something buried deep.

Felix couldn't help but feel a surge of frustration. "Then why don't you tell me?" Felix challenged, his voice softening just enough to betray the vulnerability beneath the anger. "Why don't you tell me the truth, Hyunjin?"

Hyunjin's gaze shifted away for a moment, his expression unreadable. But then, to Felix's surprise, his features softened for a brief second, as if the weight of something had fallen onto his shoulders. Felix was caught off guard. What the hell was going on with him?

"I never meant for you to get involved in this," Hyunjin said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. There was a hint of regret there, something Felix wasn't prepared to hear. "I never meant for you to become part of this mess."

Felix's breath caught, and for a split second, he saw a glimpse of the man beneath the cold exterior. There was more to Hyunjin than Felix had ever realized. But just as quickly as it appeared, that vulnerability disappeared, replaced by the same guarded mask.

"You didn't want me involved?" Felix's voice cracked, his frustration turning into something deeper. "You think I had a choice, Hyunjin? You pulled me into this the moment I started caring. You think I don't see it? You've been playing me the whole time."

Hyunjin's jaw tightened, and he looked away again, the emotion flickering in his eyes like a dying flame. Felix felt a pang in his chest. There it was again, the vulnerability, something he wasn't supposed to see. But it was there, hidden beneath layers of silence and avoidance.

Felix couldn't stop himself. He had to ask the question, even though he wasn't sure if he could handle the answer.

"Who are you, Hyunjin?" The words hung between them like a dare. A challenge. He had to know. He had to understand who Hyunjin really was. Was he just another pawn in this dangerous game, or was there something more to him?

Hyunjin stood silent for a long moment, the weight of Felix's question pressing down on them both. Felix watched him, trying to catch any hint of a reaction, but Hyunjin's mask never slipped.

"I'm someone you don't want to know," Hyunjin replied, his voice low and final. "I'm not the man you think I am. And you wouldn't be able to handle the truth."

Felix's heart sank. What does that mean?

But before Felix could push further, Hyunjin took a step back, his gaze never leaving Felix's. The cool night air seemed to chill as the silence stretched between them.

Felix could feel his chest tightening, the familiar feeling of helplessness creeping in. But this time, he wasn't backing down. He couldn't. Not when everything he had suspected about Hyunjin had come rushing to the surface. Not when everything had changed.

Hyunjin's eyes softened slightly, and Felix caught a glimpse of something in them, something unspoken, something that made Felix's chest tighten even more. But it wasn't enough. Not when Felix didn't have the answers.

"I never wanted to fall for you," Hyunjin said quietly, his voice barely audible, the words so soft Felix almost didn't catch them. "You were always meant to be a pawn, someone I could use. That's all you were supposed to be."

Felix froze, his breath catching in his throat. The words hit harder than anything else Hyunjin had said. He had been nothing more than a tool? A pawn? That's all I was to him?

But then, just as quickly, Hyunjin's expression shifted, the vulnerability replaced by something guarded, something distant. His gaze dropped to the ground for a moment before he met Felix's eyes again.

"But the days I spent watching over you," Hyunjin continued, his voice barely above a whisper, "and that night we shared... You've embedded yourself in me. I don't know how it happened, but you've... you've changed everything."

Felix's heart pounded in his chest, the words reverberating in his mind. He never meant to fall for me? It didn't make sense. None of it did. But Hyunjin had just admitted it, whether he meant to or not.

Felix opened his mouth to speak, but the words got caught in his throat. He didn't know what to say, how to respond. Hyunjin had confessed to something he hadn't even known himself. And now, Felix was left standing in the dark, trying to piece together a puzzle he wasn't sure he was ready to solve.

"I don't know what this is," Hyunjin whispered, his gaze softening, and for the first time, Felix saw the weight of something real behind those eyes. "But I know that I can't let you go now."

Felix's chest tightened. He had come here to find answers, but now he was more confused than ever. Hyunjin wasn't just the man he thought he knew. There was more to him so much more. And Felix didn't know if he was ready to face it.

But one thing was clear: no matter what, they were both in this together now.

Chapter Text

The weight of Hyunjin's words hung heavy between them as they stood in the dark alleyway, the tension palpable. Felix could feel the air between them crackling with unspoken truths, things they had both been dancing around for too long. The night had shifted, and now it felt like they were standing on the edge of something too big to ignore. The distance between them had closed, but the distance in their hearts was wider than ever.

Felix exhaled, steadying his racing heart. He had come to confront Hyunjin, to find answers, and now that they were finally here, the confusion and uncertainty seemed to swirl even more violently.

"Let's leave," Felix said softly, his voice cutting through the heavy silence. He reached for Hyunjin's hand, a gesture that felt unfamiliar but necessary. "You can come over tonight? We can talk, maybe..."

Hyunjin stared at him, his expression unreadable. His heart wanted one thing, but his mind, the voice that had kept him alive all these years, told him something else. Felix's request, his offer, stirred something deep inside him, something he had buried far beneath the layers of his control. He wasn't supposed to want this. He wasn't supposed to want Felix in his life beyond the role he had played.

"I can't..." Hyunjin started, but the words died in his throat before he could finish. He wasn't ready. He had never allowed himself to be ready. This wasn't how things were supposed to go.

Felix's brow furrowed as he leaned in closer. "Can't or won't?" His voice was challenging, but there was something else behind it, a plea for honesty, for something real.

Hyunjin hesitated, his gaze flickering between Felix's eyes, his hand, and the space between them. His heart fluttered, caught in the gravity of Felix's presence. There was so much at stake. Hyunjin had never meant for Felix to get this close, to worm his way so deeply under his skin. He was supposed to be a pawn in Hyunjin's game. That was it. That was all he could be. But somehow, somewhere along the way, Felix had become more. Hyunjin wasn't sure when it had happened, but it had. And now, he didn't know how to undo it.

Felix's hand lingered in the air, and Hyunjin, with a glance down, saw their fingers nearly touching. A surge of warmth passed through him, but he quickly pulled his hand back, swallowing the sudden lump in his throat.

He looked at Felix again, the vulnerability he had so carefully kept buried flickering through.

"Okay," Hyunjin said softly, his voice barely above a whisper. His shoulders slumped slightly, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a flicker of relief. He couldn't explain why. But something about Felix's persistence, his willingness to reach out despite everything, had broken through the wall Hyunjin had built.

Felix smiled, and his fingers brushed against Hyunjin's in a fleeting, almost shy gesture before he gave his hand a quick squeeze. "I'll see you later," Felix said softly, the words like a promise. "When you're done here."

Hyunjin nodded, still caught in the haze of emotions Felix's presence stirred within him. He turned toward the entrance, his mind reeling with the weight of their unspoken agreement.

As they made their way back inside, Felix scanned the VIP section. Changbin was no longer sitting where he had been, and a wave of unease stirred in Felix's chest. His eyes darted around the room, but Changbin was nowhere in sight.

Felix leaned in closer to Hyunjin, the heavy bass of the music making it hard to hear. He spoke just above a whisper, his words meant only for the older man. "I'll see you later."

Hyunjin nodded, his eyes flicking toward Felix for just a moment before he turned and made his way back to the VIP section. Felix lingered for a few seconds, his mind still processing everything that had just been said and done. But before he could make his way toward the exit, a firm hand grabbed his wrist, pulling him to a stop.

Felix's breath hitched in his chest as he turned to find none other than Seo Changbin standing in front of him.

Up close, Changbin was more imposing than Felix remembered. His sharp eyes and thick frame radiated an air of authority, one that didn't need to be spoken aloud to make an impact. Changbin's grip on Felix's wrist was firm but not painful. Just enough to make a point.

"Leaving so soon?" Changbin's voice was low, almost casual, but there was an unmistakable edge to it, a warning Felix didn't miss.

Felix masked his initial surprise, slipping into his usual indifference. He wasn't about to let Changbin see how much this encounter rattled him. "Yeah. I got what I came for," Felix said coolly, meeting Changbin's gaze with unwavering resolve.

Changbin didn't release his hold. Instead, he tightened his grip just slightly, his eyes scanning Felix's face as if searching for something. Felix held his ground, feeling the weight of the scrutiny.

"That so?" Changbin's voice was laced with amusement, but Felix could feel the deeper undertone of suspicion. "Because from where I was sitting, it looked like you were poking around where you shouldn't be."

Felix's lips twitched into a tight smile. "Maybe I was," he replied, his voice steady, his mind already spinning, trying to figure out why Changbin was still holding onto him.

Changbin's eyes sharpened, and Felix caught the subtle shift in his expression, a recognition, not just of Felix's presence, but of something deeper. Something that made Felix's pulse race.

Felix's mind began to churn. How the hell does Changbin know me? He had spent years hiding behind his badge, staying under the radar, making sure no criminal knew who he really was. He'd been careful. So why did Changbin seem so damn sure of who he was?

Changbin smirked, his grip loosening but his eyes never leaving Felix. "You're a long way from your usual hunting grounds, Detective." The word hit Felix like a blow. Detective.

Felix's breath caught in his throat. His heart raced. Changbin knew. How the hell does Changbin know?

Cold dread trickled down Felix's spine, freezing him in place. He had never been careless. He'd always been two steps ahead. But now, the roles were reversed. Someone had been watching him. Tracking him. And if Changbin knew who he was...

Did Hyunjin?

Felix's throat went dry as Changbin continued to smirk. "You don't get it, do you?"

Felix didn't respond, his thoughts spinning wildly. Was Hyunjin playing me the whole time? Was he aware of Felix's true identity all along?

Changbin leaned in closer, lowering his voice just enough that Felix could feel the words as a whisper against his ear. "You're not the only one who watches, Detective," he murmured, his breath warm against Felix's skin. "We have eyes too."

Felix froze, his body going rigid. He couldn't let his shock show. He couldn't let Changbin see that he was rattled.

Changbin chuckled lowly, his smirk deepening. "I think knowing your weakness is supposed to scare you," he added, his voice light but filled with menace.

Felix clenched his jaw, his stomach churning as Changbin took a small step back, leaving Felix to deal with the weight of his words. The realization crashed over him like a wave. Hyunjin knew. He had to know.

But before Felix could react, Changbin's voice broke the silence again. "Careful, Detective," he said, the playful tone still there but tinged with an unmistakable warning. "You might not like what you find."

Felix stayed silent, his body rigid as he watched Changbin disappear into the crowd, heading back toward the VIP lounge.

It took all of Felix's strength to remain composed as he walked toward the exit, the weight of Changbin's words settling in his gut. Had Hyunjin known from the beginning? Had he been playing me the entire time?

Felix didn't know. But now, more than ever, the line between them was blurrier than it had ever been.

Chapter Text

Felix stepped out of the club, the cool night air slapping him in the face like a rude awakening. But it did little to clear the fog pressing in at the edges of his thoughts. His heart was still hammering, breath uneven as fragments of the night replayed on a loop behind his eyes. Changbin's voice still lingered in his ears, those words, whispered low and close, laced with venom and truth. He had been watched. Observed. Followed.

The realization twisted like glass in his stomach. He had thought he was in control, thought he could play this game from the shadows. But it turned out, someone else had been holding the pieces all along. The bitter taste of vulnerability sat heavy on his tongue. He had come looking for answers, intent on finding Hyunjin, on dragging some sort of truth into the light. Instead, the night had morphed into something darker, more dangerous. Every step forward only unraveled more questions, like pulling on a thread and watching the whole fabric fall apart.

Felix closed his eyes for a moment, the memory of Hyunjin's voice, low, trembling, echoing in his mind. The confession hadn't been what he expected. There had been something raw in it, something unguarded that shook Felix in a way he hadn't prepared for. He had seen glimpses of Hyunjin's walls before, carefully constructed and fiercely protected. But tonight? Tonight, one had cracked wide open, and for a second, he'd seen what lay beneath.

And it had terrified him.

He wasn't sure how he got home. The city passed in a blur, his body moving on autopilot while his brain remained stuck in that dim corner of the club, heart echoing with truths he wasn't ready to name. His mind was a storm, a whirlwind of logic clashing against longing, of duty versus desire. One part of him screamed to act. To call it in. Bring his team up to speed, tell them what he now knew. The Snake Eye Clan. The possible involvement of Hyunjin. Changbin's veiled threats.

But then there was the other part. The part that had been growing quietly, insistently for weeks now. The part that couldn't forget the way Hyunjin's fingers had lingered on his arm. The way his eyes softened when he let his guard down. The way his laugh, rare and fleeting, felt like something Felix would do anything to hear again.

He scrubbed a hand down his face. Could I really do it? Could I arrest Hyunjin?

The sharp knock at his door jolted him like a slap. He froze, heart slamming against his ribs. His apartment was silent. Too silent. Another knock. Firmer. More urgent.

Felix was already halfway to the door before he even registered moving. His instincts flared, warning him to tread carefully. This wasn't the time for recklessness, not when everything was teetering on the edge of unraveling. His hand hovered over the lock for a beat longer than necessary, breath held like it might stop the inevitable.

Click.

The door creaked open and there he was.

Hyunjin stood in the dim glow of the hallway like a shadow pulled from a dream or a nightmare. He was dressed in a plain black hoodie, the sleeves pulled over his hands, hair slightly mussed like he'd run his fingers through it too many times. His face was pale, drawn tight with exhaustion and something else, uncertainty. Maybe regret. Maybe fear.

Felix swallowed hard. "Hyunjin."

No response. Just the sound of Hyunjin's shallow breathing, the rise and fall of his chest as if he'd run all the way here.

Felix felt something inside him twist. This wasn't how he'd pictured their next meeting. Not after what he'd learned. Not after what had been said.

Still, he stepped aside. "Come in."

For a moment, Hyunjin didn't move. Then, wordlessly, he brushed past Felix, slipping inside like a ghost. He moved with a strange stiffness, as if unsure whether he was allowed to be here. Felix closed the door behind him with a soft click, the finality of it echoing in his chest.

Hyunjin stopped in the middle of the living room. He didn't sit. Didn't pace. Just stood there, eyes cast down like the floor might offer him answers.

Felix's gaze lingered on him, cataloguing every detail, the slope of his shoulders, the tension in his jaw, the way his fingers twitched where they hung by his sides.

And then something else hit him.

Brown.

Felix's breath hitched. Hyunjin's eyes were brown. Not blue.

Not the striking, stormy blue Felix had memorized, admired, fallen into. They were brown now. Deep, unreadable brown.

The panic rose fast and sharp.

"What... what do you want from me, Felix?" Hyunjin's voice cracked through the silence, low and hoarse. "What do you need to hear?"

Felix opened his mouth, then closed it again, the words catching in his throat. He stepped forward, pulse quickening. "The truth."

Hyunjin gave a breathless, bitter laugh. "You think you want the truth."

"I do," Felix said, quieter this time. "Please."

A long pause. Then, Hyunjin lifted his eyes. "I don't think you're ready for it."

Felix's jaw tightened. "Try me."

"You're a detective," Hyunjin said, not a question, not a guess. A statement. Resigned. "I've known for a while."

Felix's stomach dropped. "How long?"

Hyunjin's silence was louder than any answer.

Felix stepped closer, the space between them shrinking like a vice. "Hyunjin."

The older man looked up again, eyes now unreadable. "You have no idea what you're getting into."

"Then tell me. Show me." Felix's voice softened. "Because I care. And whether I want to or not...I care about you."

Hyunjin flinched, barely perceptible. "Then you should walk away now."

"I can't."

Another beat of silence. Then, finally, Hyunjin said the words that shattered everything.

"I'm the leader of the Snake Eye Clan."

Felix felt the floor drop out beneath him. He had guessed. Suspected. Danced around the possibility like a man avoiding a trap. But hearing it, hearing Hyunjin say it, with that quiet finality was different. Devastating.

"No," he whispered, denial sharp in his throat.

"Yes." Hyunjin's voice was like iron now. "I run things you don't even see. I keep the peace in ways the government won't acknowledge. I make the deals. I keep the order."

Felix stumbled back a step, eyes wide. "Then everything was a lie. The way you looked at me. The way you...what we did...your eyes...Hyunjin..."

"That wasn't a lie," Hyunjin said, voice trembling now, the mask slipping. "I didn't plan for you. I didn't mean to let you in. But you..." He broke off, then continued, barely audible. "You got under my skin. You stayed there."

Felix's breath caught.

"I don't want to feel this way," Hyunjin said, pain raw in his tone. "But I do. And that terrifies me more than anything else."

Felix couldn't breathe. Couldn't move. Everything was unraveling and he couldn't stop it. "I should arrest you."

"Then do it," Hyunjin whispered. "Right now. Cuff me. Take me in."

Felix looked at him, really looked. At the vulnerability, the ache beneath the defiance. And he realized, with a cold shiver, that he couldn't.

He wasn't ready and that scared him most of all.

Chapter Text

The room felt entirely too small. The space between them seemed to contract with every passing second, the air growing thicker, charged with a tension that Felix couldn't escape. Every breath he took felt like it weighed a hundred pounds, his mind struggling to make sense of the chaos swirling around him.

Felix hadn't moved. Hyunjin hadn't moved. They both stood in the middle of the room, two people standing in the midst of a storm neither of them had been prepared for. Hyunjin, the man who had been an enigma, a distant memory of desire and confusion, was now revealed for what he truly was: the leader of the Snake Eye Clan. Felix's target. The man he had been hunting for the past few years.

His heart pounded in his chest, a steady rhythm that echoed in his ears, drowning out every other sound in the room. The revelation had come too quickly. He had walked into this moment expecting answers, but what he got was the truth. A truth that felt like it was pulling the ground out from beneath him.

Why haven't I arrested him? The question flashed in Felix's mind, and the weight of it hit him like a physical blow. He was supposed to be an officer of the law, bound by duty, by the rules that had defined him for so long. And yet here he was, standing in front of the very man he had sworn to bring down, unable to move, unable to make the choice that he should have made the moment Hyunjin walked into his life.

Felix took a step back, his gaze never leaving Hyunjin's. His fists clenched at his sides, his thoughts running in circles. The answer was clear, yet still, he couldn't bring himself to do it. He had been chasing Hyunjin for so long, and now that he finally had him, Felix didn't know what to do with the man standing in front of him. The truth felt like a crushing weight, a suffocating truth that threatened to consume him whole.

The silence stretched between them, thick and heavy, like a rope pulling them in opposite directions. Felix couldn't figure out who was going to break first, whether it would be him, or Hyunjin.

"Hyunjin..." Felix's voice was hoarse, barely more than a whisper, but it was enough to make Hyunjin flinch. Felix stepped forward before he could stop himself, even though every part of him screamed to turn away, to walk out of the room, to end this madness.

"Don't, Felix," Hyunjin's voice was cold, almost distant, but Felix could see the tension in his posture, the way his hands curled into fists at his sides, his body taut with a barely contained energy. "You know there isn't a future for us." Hyunjin's words were firm, as if he were trying to convince both Felix and himself. "We need to just walk away and forget everything. Go back to you chasing me, and me evading you."

Felix's heart skipped a beat, the finality in Hyunjin's words hitting him harder than anything else. He could feel the raw emotion buried beneath Hyunjin's cool exterior. The older man was fighting something inside of himself, but Felix wasn't sure what it was. Hyunjin's eyes flickered with something, regret, maybe, or something deeper, something that Felix couldn't quite name, but that made his chest ache.

Go back to chasing him? Felix's thoughts collided with the force of a car crash. I've been chasing him for so long. Is this really how it ends? He couldn't do that. He couldn't go back to the way things were before. Not now that he had seen Hyunjin for who he truly was. The man he had idolized, the man he had hunted, he was right here, standing in front of him, and Felix didn't know what to do with the truth.

Felix could feel the pull, the push, the tension that gripped both of them. He had wanted answers, but now that he had them, nothing felt clear. Hyunjin was the leader of the Snake Eye Clan. He was the very thing Felix had spent years trying to take down. And yet, standing here, with everything laid bare between them, Felix couldn't ignore the part of him that had fallen for Hyunjin, the part that had always been drawn to the older man, even when he shouldn't have been.

Felix's breath came faster, his chest tight with emotion, the conflict threatening to tear him apart. "I can't just walk away," he said softly, his voice thick with a mixture of frustration and something darker. "If you wanted things to be different... why did you let me go? Why did you kill one of your men when he was assaulting me? Why did you let me in? You didn't have to bring me to your studio. You're asking me to walk away, but you made it impossible to do that."

Hyunjin closed his eyes briefly, his face twisted with something Felix couldn't place. His hand reached up to rub at his temples, as if trying to relieve the weight of it all. "I never wanted this," Hyunjin whispered, the words barely audible. "I never meant to fall for you."

Felix didn't know what to say to that. His body felt like it was caught in a storm, his thoughts a whirlwind of confusion. He stepped closer to Hyunjin, his pulse quickening as he closed the distance between them. He could feel the heat of Hyunjin's body, the tension radiating off him like a palpable force.

"Then why didn't you push me away?" Felix's voice was barely more than a breath, the words tumbling out before he could stop them. "Why did you let me get close if this is how it ends?"

Hyunjin's gaze flickered, and for a moment, Felix thought he saw something, something real, behind the guarded walls Hyunjin had spent so long building. But it was gone too quickly, leaving only the distance between them, the weight of what Hyunjin had just admitted.

"I didn't mean to fall for you," Hyunjin repeated, his voice strained, as if admitting it again made it more real, more painful. "But it happened. And now... now I don't know how to make it stop."

Felix's heart pounded, the weight of Hyunjin's words settling heavily on him. The truth was like a knife, sharp and cutting, and he wasn't sure which direction it would twist. He had wanted the answers, but now that they were here, they didn't feel like answers. They felt like a betrayal of himself, of everything he had ever believed in.

"I don't know what to do with this," Felix whispered, the words a confession of his own confusion. "I've spent so long chasing you. I've fought everything in me to stay on the right side, to do the right thing. But now... now I don't even know what that is anymore."

Hyunjin's eyes softened for a brief moment, his gaze meeting Felix's with something that felt like regret, but also something deeper. He wasn't sure if Hyunjin was asking for forgiveness or just offering a chance for Felix to walk away, to leave all of this behind.

Felix's heart pounded in his chest, the weight of everything Hyunjin had just said crashing down on him. His mind was in turmoil, racing in a thousand directions, trying to make sense of the chaos in his head. The truth about Hyunjin had shattered everything he thought he knew, and now, Felix didn't know who he was anymore, or where the hell he stood.

Hyunjin's eyes softened for a brief moment, but there was still something guarded in his gaze, a wall Felix couldn't quite break through. The space between them felt both endless and suffocating. Every breath Felix took was heavier than the last, as if the weight of Hyunjin's confession was pressing down on him, leaving him breathless and uncertain.

"I can't walk away, Hyunjin," Felix whispered, his voice full of frustration and something deeper, raw. "And you know it."

Hyunjin didn't respond immediately. The silence between them stretched, thick with unspoken words. His expression flickered, like he was trying to find the right thing to say, but nothing came. Felix could see it, see the internal battle raging in the older man's eyes, the struggle between what he wanted and what he thought he should do.

Felix couldn't take it anymore. He couldn't stand the distance between them. The pull was too strong, too suffocating, and he couldn't ignore it any longer. He didn't want to ignore it. He didn't care about the consequences, the dangers, or what he was supposed to do. All that mattered was Hyunjin, standing right in front of him, and the undeniable connection between them.

Felix took a step forward, closing the gap between them. His hand reached out, his fingers grazing against Hyunjin's wrist. And then, before either of them could think or stop it, Felix leaned in, pressing his lips to Hyunjin's in a desperate, aching kiss.

It was everything Felix had been holding back, everything that had been brewing inside of him, released in that single, explosive moment. The kiss was hungry and full of raw emotion, desperation, longing, confusion, all crashing together like waves against the shore. Felix's heart raced as he deepened the kiss, his hands coming up to grasp Hyunjin's face, pulling him closer, needing to feel more of him, to know he was real, that this wasn't some twisted dream.

Hyunjin didn't pull away. His lips were warm against Felix's, hesitant at first, as if unsure whether to respond, but then he melted into the kiss, his hands reaching up to tangle in Felix's hair, pulling him in tighter. Hyunjin's body pressed against his, and Felix could feel the tension in his muscles, the fight within him, but it was overridden by something more urgent, more powerful than any resistance.

The kiss was everything Felix had been holding back, everything he had been fighting to ignore. It was the confusion, the desire, the unspoken words, all tangled up in the desperate movement of their lips. Hyunjin's body was tense at first, but soon, he gave in, his grip on Felix's hair tightening as he responded in kind, the kiss becoming more heated, more frantic.

Felix could feel Hyunjin's breath hitch against his lips, the soft tremor in his body as the older man let go of his control, just for a moment. And in that moment, everything that had been weighing on Felix's chest, all the doubt, the anger, the uncertainty, melted away. He didn't have to think anymore. All that mattered was this, this moment, with Hyunjin, raw and real, the truth of everything crashing over them both.

When they finally broke apart, both of them were breathless, their foreheads resting together, sharing the same air. Felix's heart hammered in his chest, his pulse still racing, his body trembling with the intensity of the kiss. He didn't know what came next. He didn't know if this was the right thing, the wrong thing, or something in between. But in that moment, none of it mattered.

"Felix..." Hyunjin's voice was soft, strained, and Felix could feel the weight of everything between them in those two simple syllables.

Felix's hands cupped Hyunjin's face, his thumb gently brushing over his cheek. "I don't know where this is going, but I'm not walking away." His voice was steady, but his words felt like a confession, like a vow he hadn't realized he needed to make until just now.

Hyunjin's eyes searched his, his expression a mixture of uncertainty and something deeper. He didn't speak, didn't say a word, but Felix saw it in his eyes. Hyunjin was scared, but he was here, with Felix, in this moment. And that was all that mattered.

Felix leaned in again, pressing his lips to Hyunjin's in a soft, lingering kiss. It wasn't about passion now. It was about something quieter, more fragile, a promise. A promise that they weren't going to walk away from each other, not yet, not now that everything had come crashing to the surface.

Felix pulled away slowly, his hand still resting on Hyunjin's cheek. The silence between them was comfortable now, filled with the weight of everything that had been said and unsaid. Felix knew they couldn't stay in this moment forever, but for now, for right now, he was willing to hold onto it.

"I'm not leaving," Felix said again, his voice softer this time, but just as firm.

Hyunjin's gaze softened, and for the first time that night, there was no wall between them. His eyes were open, raw, vulnerable, and Felix could see it, the fear, the hesitation, but also something else. Something that felt like a chance.

"Okay," Hyunjin whispered, his voice barely audible, but it was enough.

Felix smiled, his heart still racing but with a newfound sense of clarity. The road ahead was uncertain, full of questions and complications, but for now, they had this. They had this moment. And for the first time, Felix felt like he wasn't alone in this fight.

Chapter Text

Felix's breath was ragged, his forehead still pressed against Hyunjin's. Neither of them moved, frozen in place, as if any motion would cause the fragile moment between them to shatter. The truth of everything they had said, of everything they had admitted to one another, lingered heavily in the air.

This wasn't just a mistake. It was the mistake, and yet, neither of them stopped.

Felix felt his heart pounding in his chest, the sound deafening in his own ears. He couldn't look away from Hyunjin's eyes, those dark, unreadable eyes that held so many secrets. He could feel Hyunjin's breath, warm against his skin, but neither of them had moved, neither of them had let go of the fragile thread of connection they had just woven between them.

Hyunjin swallowed hard, his fingers curling into the fabric of Felix's shirt. "Tell me this is stupid," he whispered, his voice shaky but filled with something deeper, something that felt almost like a challenge. "Tell me you'll regret this."

Felix let out a soft, bitter laugh, the sound escaping him before he could stop it. "I can't."

Hyunjin sucked in a sharp breath, his chest rising and falling more rapidly now. "Felix..." Felix cut him off with another desperate kiss.

Hyunjin melted into it instantly, his hands finally moving. One slid up Felix's chest, the other gripping at the back of his neck, pulling him closer. Felix groaned at the contact, his hands tightening at Hyunjin's waist, feeling the heat radiating between them. He deepened the kiss, swallowing the tiny noises Hyunjin made, letting them undo him piece by piece.

Felix's grip moved to Hyunjin's hips, his thumbs slipping under the hem of his hoodie, brushing against bare skin. Hyunjin shivered under his touch, pressing closer like he wanted more, but was too proud to ask for it.

Felix smirked against his lips, feeling a thrill run through him at how easily he had pulled this reaction from the older man. "You like this," he murmured, the words carrying a challenge of their own.

Hyunjin let out a shaky breath, his body tense against Felix's. "Shut up."

Felix chuckled, but his next kiss was softer, slower, just for a moment. His lips moved to Hyunjin's jaw, to the spot just below his ear where he could feel Hyunjin's pulse pounding under his touch.

"Felix..."

It was barely a whisper, but it sent heat curling down Felix's spine, making every nerve in his body scream for more.

Felix wanted more. He wanted to break Hyunjin apart completely.

But a sound interrupted them. A vibration against Felix's thigh. His phone. Reality crashed into him like a freight train. Felix pulled back, breathless, his mind spinning as he realized what had just happened. His phone continued to buzz, its vibration jarring against the wood of the table.

Hyunjin's lips were swollen, his pupils blown wide with desire, his chest rising and falling in quick, uneven breaths. He looked wrecked, and Felix had done that.

For a brief, dangerous second, Felix almost ignored the call. He almost let it ring until it stopped. But then he saw the name flashing on the screen.

Chan.

Shit, he thought. Felix forced himself to take a step back, his fingers still tingling from where they had gripped Hyunjin's skin. The distance between them felt unbearable now. He needed to make a choice, and the weight of it pressed down on him, making it hard to breathe.

Hyunjin's dazed expression cleared in an instant. His walls slammed back up, his posture stiffening. "Answer it," he said, his voice hoarse.

Felix hesitated, torn between the call that demanded his attention and the man in front of him who was waiting, quietly falling apart with every passing second. His fingers hovered over the screen, his mind at war with itself.

Hyunjin's jaw tightened, his gaze unyielding. "Felix. Answer the damn phone."

The world outside of this moment was waiting for him. His team, his job, the mission, everything that had defined his life until now. But Hyunjin was standing in front of him, chest rising and falling rapidly, lips parted like he wanted to say something but didn't know how. His hoodie hung loosely around his frame, his fingers twitching at his sides, like he was trying to hold himself back from whatever this had become.

And for once, Felix wasn't thinking about duty. He wasn't thinking about what was right. He was thinking about him.

The phone buzzed again.

Felix stared at the screen for a long moment, his heart in his throat, the weight of his decision crushing down on him. He glanced back at Hyunjin, meeting his eyes. There was something in those eyes, raw, something fragile, that Felix couldn't ignore.

Without a word, he set the phone down on the table. The vibrations rattled against the wood, but Felix didn't flinch. He didn't move. He turned his attention back to Hyunjin.

"I’m choosing you."

Hyunjin's breath caught. He blinked, eyes wide, and for a moment, the world around them seemed to stop. Neither of them spoke. The words hung in the air, heavier than anything they had said so far.

Hyunjin's jaw tightened, and he took a step back, like he was trying to create some space between them. "Felix..."

"No." Felix took a step forward, his voice firm, unwavering. "No more running. No more pretending. I don't care how deep you are in this, I'm not letting you go."

Hyunjin exhaled shakily, his fingers curling into his sleeves like he was trying to hold himself together. His body tensed like he was fighting himself, fighting whatever it was that was pulling him toward Felix. But Felix wasn't going to let him fight it anymore. Not now.

"You're a fool," Hyunjin muttered, his voice low, eyes filled with something close to regret. "You don't understand what you're choosing."

Felix let out a humorless chuckle. "Yeah? Then dont make me regret it.”

Hyunjin's lips parted, but no words came out. The room felt too small for everything they were carrying. The emotions, the weight of the choice they were both making, it was suffocating.

Felix took another step forward, closing the distance between them. "You wanted me to see the truth? Fine. I see it now."

Hyunjin's breath hitched. He tried to pull back, to distance himself, but there was nowhere left to run.

Felix wasn't giving him the space anymore. He wasn't going to let him hide behind walls, behind excuses. This wasn't just a job anymore. This wasn't just about bringing someone down. It was about him.

"And?" Hyunjin whispered, his voice barely audible, the tension thick between them.

Felix swallowed hard, his fingers twitching at his sides, unsure if he could even speak the words. But they came out anyway, soft but unwavering. "And I'm still here."

Hyunjin sucked in a sharp breath. His walls were crumbling, and Felix could see it, the way his eyes darted to the side, the way his fingers twitched like he was fighting everything inside of him. But Hyunjin wasn't pushing him away.

"You don't get it," Hyunjin murmured, shaking his head. "If you stay, you're choosing me over everything else."

Felix stepped even closer, until their breaths mingled, until there was nowhere left to hide. "Then I guess I've already made my choice."

Felix kissed him again. This time, Hyunjin didn't push him away. He pulled him in. He didn't hesitate this time.

The moment Felix's lips met his, every ounce of restraint snapped like a frayed wire. Felix groaned against his mouth, his hands sliding up Hyunjin's waist, up his back, pressing him closer like he could somehow keep him there.

Hyunjin let him. Let himself fall. Let himself want. It was reckless. It was dangerous. It was inevitable.

Felix backed him up, lips never leaving his, until Hyunjin hit the wall, gasping at the impact. Felix swallowed the sound, tilting his head to deepen the kiss, his fingers curling tighter around Hyunjin's waist.

It wasn't enough. “Felix..." Hyunjin's breath was uneven, his fingers twisting into the fabric of Felix's shirt.

"I know," Felix murmured, breath hot against Hyunjin's lips. "I know."

Felix kissed him again, slower this time, like he could memorize him, like he could somehow make this real. Because it didn't feel real. It felt like something he had no right to have, and yet, he couldn't stop himself from taking it anyway. Hyunjin shuddered when Felix's hands slid beneath his hoodie, fingers grazing bare skin.

"You're shaking," Felix whispered, voice rough.

Hyunjin let out a breathy laugh, shoving at his chest half-heartedly. "Shut up."

Felix smirked, but he didn't push further. He just rested his forehead against Hyunjin's, breathing him in, letting the moment settle around them like a storm waiting to break.

Seconds passed. Minutes. Neither of them spoke. Neither of them moved. The weight of everything pressed down on them, the past, the future, the dangerous line they had just obliterated with no chance of turning back.

Felix's phone was still buzzing on the table. But it might as well have been a world away. Felix cupped his jaw, his thumb tracing just beneath his cheekbone, soft, reverent, like he wasn't holding a man wanted by half the city. Like he wasn't holding the one person he was supposed to destroy.

"We can't stop this, can we?" Hyunjin whispered.

Felix's throat tightened. "No."

Hyunjin let out a slow, shuddering breath. His fingers curled around the fabric of Felix's sleeve like he wanted to pull away but couldn't bring himself to let go.

"Then what happens now?" he asked, voice barely above a whisper.

Felix's jaw clenched. He had no idea. All he knew was that he wasn't letting Hyunjin go. Not now. Not ever.

Felix's hands trembled as they slid beneath Hyunjin's hoodie, fingers grazing bare skin. He felt the shiver that ran through Hyunjin's body, the way his breath hitched, the way his grip on Felix's shirt tightened like he was scared to let go.

Hyinjin’s lips parted, and a soft, broken sound, like he hated how much he needed this. Like he hated how much he needed Felix.

Felix's restraint snapped. His lips crashed back against Hyunjin's, hungry, desperate, relentless. Hyunjin gasped into his mouth, his fingers finally moving, grabbing at Felix's shoulders, clutching at his hair, pulling him deeper.

Felix groaned, his grip tightening, his body pressing Hyunjin harder against the wall. He wanted him. More than he'd ever wanted anything in his life.

And Hyunjin wanted him too. But this was a line that neither of them could uncross.

Felix pulled back suddenly, chest heaving. His forehead rested against Hyunjin's, both of them panting, both of them still clutching at each other like they didn't know how to let go.

"Felix..." Hyunjin's voice was unsteady, his breath warm against Felix's lips. His breath was uneven, his body still pressed between Felix and the wall, but this time, he wasn't trying to escape.

Felix could feel the tension humming beneath Hyunjin's skin, the conflict warring inside of him. He had spent so long running, so long keeping himself untouchable, unreachable.

Now he was right here, in Felix's hands, breaking apart piece by piece.

Felix traced his thumb along Hyunjin's jaw, tilting his face up. "You don't have to say anything."

Hyunjin exhaled, something fragile flickering in his expression. "That's the problem, Felix." His voice was quiet, raw. "I think I do."

Felix smoothed his hands down Hyunjin's sides, feeling the way his body trembled, the way his heart was pounding just as fast as Felix's own.

"Don’t," Felix murmured. "Just let it happen."

Hyunjin let out a shaky breath. "You make it sound so simple."

Felix tilted his head, his lips barely brushing against Hyunjin's, not kissing him this time, just keeping him close. "It is."

Hyunjin let out a soft, bitter laugh. "You know it's not."

Felix huffed, pressing their foreheads together. "No. But I can pretend for a little longer."

Hyunjin closed his eyes, his grip on Felix tightening. For once, he let himself believe it. For once he let himself want Felix without running away from it.

"Stay," Felix whispered.

Hyunjin shuddered. "I don't think I can leave."

Felix kissed him again, slower this time, softer. It wasn't about desperation anymore. It was about finally making the choice. And for the first time in his life, Hyunjin chose something for himself.

He chose Felix.

Chapter Text

Felix barely had the bedroom door closed before his hands were on Hyunjin, pulling him in, lips crashing desperately against his. The older man’s moan rumbled against Felix’s mouth, vibrating through his chest as Hyunjin’s last remaining walls crumbled in an instant. It felt as though everything around them blurred into insignificance, like time had narrowed into this one moment where nothing mattered except the heat sparking between them.

The tension that had been simmering between them for weeks had snapped like an overstretched cord. Urgency took its place. Need consumed them. Desire wrapped around their bodies like smoke, thick and intoxicating.

His hands gripped the hem of Hyunjin’s hoodie with a frantic kind of tenderness, tugging at the fabric, silently begging for it to come off. His breathing grew erratic, his pulse hammering as if each second was moving too slow, dragging him through this agonizing anticipation. He needed to feel him, now.

Hyunjin allowed it, he raised his arms without hesitation, letting Felix peel the hoodie up and over his head. For a breathless moment, Felix paused, his gaze raking over Hyunjin’s flushed body now exposed before him. The soft sheen of sweat glistened on his skin, catching the light like a delicate shimmer that only made Felix’s breath hitch harder.

God, he’s beautiful, Felix thought. His fingers hovered for a second over Hyunjin’s bare stomach before finally brushing across the heated skin. The muscles underneath tensed instinctively, Hyunjin’s breath catching as goosebumps rose along his arms. It was a small, quiet reaction, but it sent a shiver racing up Felix’s spine.

He dragged his fingertips upward, exploring slowly, tracing the faint lines of Hyunjin’s toned chest, marveling at every little shiver that rolled under his hands. His own breathing was growing uneven, but his focus never wavered. His entire world, in this moment, was reduced to Hyunjin and how he unraveled under his touch.

Felix leaned in again, their lips colliding with more force, hungrier, desperate. His tongue teased against Hyunjin’s, coaxing him, pulling him further into this storm of desire. Hyunjin followed, matching the kiss with growing fervor, his hands fisting into the fabric of Felix’s shirt as though he needed something, anything, to ground himself.

Their bodies moved in sync, pressing together with an almost unconscious rhythm. Every friction of skin made Felix ache for more. His need was mounting, twisting tighter with every breath, every sound Hyunjin made.

Felix’s hands slid lower, his fingers curling around the waistband of Hyunjin’s pants. He paused, looking up, silent but deliberate, searching Hyunjin’s face one last time for hesitation.

Hyunjin’s lips were parted, breath coming in short, shaky bursts, but he met Felix’s gaze and nodded. That single nod broke whatever restraint Felix had left.

He slid Hyunjin’s pants down slowly, letting the fabric drag over his skin until they pooled at his feet. The sound of it was louder than it should have been, echoing in the thick silence between them. Felix’s breath caught in his throat as his eyes roamed freely now, taking in Hyunjin fully, exposed, vulnerable yet completely willing.

Hyunjin stood still, flushed, muscles taut, his chest rising and falling in uneven beats. His vulnerability was palpable, but so was the raw hunger flickering in his eyes.

Felix stepped in closer, his lips finding Hyunjin’s again, slower this time, but no less desperate. His hands explored every inch of skin now laid bare before him, tracing Hyunjin’s sides, memorizing each sharp inhale, each involuntary shiver that followed the drag of his fingertips. His fingers dipped lower, moving toward the older’s cock.
Hyunjin’s breath hitched again, a gasp slipping from his lips as Felix’s knuckles grazed against his cock. The way his hips subtly pressed forward told Felix everything he needed to know.

“F-Felix…” Hyunjin whispered, voice trembling and soft. “Please.”

Felix smiled, tilting his head with a teasing glint in his eyes. “Impatient, are we?”

Before Hyunjin could form a response, Felix wrapped his hand firmly around him. The sound that tore from Hyunjin’s throat was raw, half relief, half unrestrained pleasure. His knees wobbled, body threatening to give out under the overwhelming sensation.

“F-fuck,” Hyunjin moaned, his whole body shivering as warmth bloomed low in his belly.

Felix captured his lips again, swallowing every sound Hyunjin tried to hold back. Felix’s hand moved confidently now, stroking him with purpose, fast, deliberate, driving Hyunjin closer to the edge with every pump.

Hyunjin’s breathing grew shallow, desperate moans slipping into Felix’s mouth as he clung tighter to the younger’s shirt, as though trying to anchor himself against the rising storm inside his body.
Felix pulled back just enough to whisper against Hyunjin’s lips.

“You’re so sensitive,” he murmured, voice thick with desire. “Is this really all it takes to make you fall apart?”

Hyunjin whimpered again, unable to answer, his voice trapped somewhere between humiliation and ecstasy. His hips bucked helplessly into Felix’s hand as the pressure built quickly, far too quickly. His entire body was quivering, his legs barely able to hold him up.

Felix’s thumb slid over the tip, smearing the precum already dripping there, and his strokes grew faster, tighter.

Hyunjin let out a loud, broken moan as the tension snapped inside him. His whole body arched, spilling hot into Felix’s hand, waves of pleasure crashing through him so intensely that his body nearly crumbled forward.

Felix caught him, steadying him gently as Hyunjin sagged into his arms, breathless and trembling.

“Shhh, easy,” Felix whispered softly, pressing a light kiss to Hyunjin’s flushed temple as his hand slowed, coaxing him gently through the aftermath. “You did so good.”

Hyunjin’s chest heaved as he tried to catch his breath, skin burning under Felix’s touch. His head dipped, too overwhelmed to meet the younger’s eyes, cheeks flushing deep crimson.

Then he felt it, Felix’s hand rising between them, fingers glistening with his release. Before Hyunjin could fully process it, Felix raised his hand to his mouth, tongue darting out to taste him.

Hyunjin’s eyes snapped wide in mortified surprise. “D-don’t do that!” he stammered, turning his head away in embarrassment.

Felix chuckled softly, wicked grin tugging at his lips. “Why not? You taste so good.” He paused for a beat before leaning in closer, voice dropping to a teasing whisper. “Do you want a taste?”

Hyunjin’s head whipped back toward him, eyes wide, mouth opening in shocked protest. “I…”

“I’m just teasing,” Felix cut in with a soft laugh, releasing him briefly to pull off his own shirt and wipe away the remaining traces of cum on his hand. But the heat in his gaze made it clear he hadn’t been entirely joking.

I would’ve done it though, Hyunjin thought to himself. His blush deepened at the unspoken implication, his heart pounding all over again.

Felix reached forward, his hand warm against Hyunjin’s bare stomach, grounding him. “You okay?” he asked gently, his teasing replaced by sincere concern.

Hyunjin swallowed hard and nodded, voice small. “Yeah.”

Felix paused, searching his face. “Do you want to keep going?”

The nerves returned, fluttering unsteadily in Hyunjin’s stomach. His lip caught between his teeth as he hesitated, then mumbled softly, “Y-yeah.”

Felix studied him carefully, his thumb brushing softly along Hyunjin’s cheek as he cupped his face. “We don’t have to,” he whispered, voice impossibly tender now. “You can tell me no.”

“No,” Hyunjin said, firmer this time. “I want to.”

Felix exhaled softly, relief melting through him. “Okay,” he whispered.

Chapter Text

Hyunjin was overwhelmed. The waves of pleasure kept crashing over him, leaving him breathless, helpless under Felix's touch. His head rolled back against the pillows as Felix worked him, bobbing up and down on his cock with deliberate, relentless rhythm. Every time Felix swallowed him down, Hyunjin's breath hitched, his chest rising sharply, a string of soft moans falling freely from his lips.

The pleasure was unlike anything he'd ever experienced. It was sharp and consuming, his toes curling involuntarily as Felix took him deeper with each movement. The younger's hands gripped his thighs tightly, locking him in place, keeping him from retreating even if he wanted to. But God he didn't.

Hyunjin's fingers instinctively reached down, threading through Felix's hair, tangling in the soft strands. The sensation of Felix's hair slipping between his fingers only heightened the rush already building inside him. His grip tightened involuntarily when Felix swallowed him deeper, his throat relaxing enough to take him nearly to the base.

"F-fuck," Hyunjin cursed through a strained breath, eyes rolling back at the overwhelming heat and pressure encasing him.

Felix hummed around him, the vibration making Hyunjin shiver. After a few more strokes, Felix pulled back, letting Hyunjin's cock slip free from his mouth with a wet pop. His hand immediately replaced his lips, stroking him slowly to keep him grounded while he spoke.

"I'm going to use my fingers to open you up, okay?" Felix said gently, voice low but calm, steady even in the heat of the moment. "If you feel uncomfortable or want to stop, you just tell me."

"O-okay," Hyunjin stuttered, voice trembling. A nervous knot twisted tight in his stomach. His heart was racing faster now, not from pleasure, but nerves. His lips pressed together tightly as he tried to steady his breathing, biting down gently in an effort to suppress the tremble in his chest.

Felix noticed immediately. He stopped his hand and leaned up slightly, catching Hyunjin's gaze. "Hey," he whispered softly. "It's okay. We can stop right here if you want. There's no pressure."

Hyunjin swallowed hard and quickly shook his head. "No," he whispered. "I want to keep going."

Felix studied him carefully. "Are you sure?"

"Yes... please. Let's keep going."

A warm smile spread across Felix's face, and he leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Hyunjin's knee before replying. "Okay. But you tell me if you need to stop. Promise me that."

"I promise."

Felix nodded and shifted back onto his knees, reaching for the lube resting on the nearby bedside table. He flipped open the cap, squeezing a generous amount onto his fingers, coating them thoroughly to make sure it would be as easy and painless as possible for the older. His movements were slow, patient, every detail deliberate.

He leaned in again, fingers glistening as he gently reached down between Hyunjin's legs. His free hand rested lightly on Hyunjin's stomach, grounding him with the warm pressure.

"Deep breath," Felix whispered.

Hyunjin obeyed, inhaling deeply, and Felix took that moment to press his slick pointer finger carefully against his entrance. He moved slowly, easing in inch by inch, feeling the tight resistance of untouched muscle instinctively clenching around him.

Hyunjin gasped sharply at the foreign intrusion, instinctively trying to shift away.

"Easy," Felix soothed, voice low and calm. "Try to relax for me, okay? The more you tense, the harder it'll be."

Hyunjin's eyes squeezed shut, jaw clenched as he tried to steady himself, taking short, shallow breaths. His fingers gripped at the duvet, knuckles turning white.

Then, unexpectedly, he felt Felix's warm mouth envelop him again. Hyunjin's eyes flew open, his head jerking up as Felix took him deep into his mouth once more, the warmth surrounding him like a balm against the growing discomfort. The pleasure at the front was enough to distract him from the strange fullness building below.

Felix's tongue swirled around the sensitive head of his cock while his finger slowly moved inside him, testing his reactions, easing him open carefully. When Hyunjin finally started to loosen beneath him, Felix gently pushed in a second finger.

Hyunjin whined softly, feeling the burn of the stretch increase. His hips twitched slightly, but he forced himself to stay relaxed, willing his muscles to accommodate. His chest was heaving, sweat beading along his collarbone as he trembled under Felix's patient hands.
He barely had time to process it when Felix's fingers curled slightly and pressed against a spot that sent an electric jolt straight through him.

"Ahh!" Hyunjin moaned, his body arching off the bed as his eyes widened in surprise at the sudden burst of pleasure that shot up his spine.

Felix glanced up, lips wet and curved into a soft smirk. "There it is," he whispered. "Does that feel good?"

Hyunjin whimpered, voice shaking. "I-it feels weird... but, good. Really good."

Felix chuckled softly, dipping back down to suck on his cock again while his fingers continued to massage that sensitive bundle of nerves. Each deliberate press made Hyunjin gasp louder, his voice turning breathy and desperate.

The discomfort was fading quickly, replaced by growing waves of pleasure that left him moaning uncontrollably. Felix was patient, never pushing too far too fast, adjusting his pace with every reaction Hyunjin gave him. When he felt the older's muscles start to yield more willingly, he slowly added a third finger.

Hyunjin groaned, his breath hitching at the added stretch.
"F-Felix..."

Felix paused immediately, stilling both his mouth and fingers. He pulled back, sitting upright, searching Hyunjin's face with immediate concern. "Are you okay, Hyung?"

Hyunjin whimpered, his body trembling slightly from the loss of stimulation. His hole clenched around the emptiness, feeling strangely hollow. "W-why did you stop?"

"You said my name. I just wanted to check."

A soft, genuine warmth spread in Hyunjin's chest at Felix's tenderness. He reached up, cupping Felix's cheek with trembling fingers. "I'm okay," he whispered. "Please don't stop."

Felix let out a quiet breath, leaning into the touch before resuming his careful work. He pushed back inside, now more confident in Hyunjin's growing readiness, gently scissoring his fingers apart to stretch him further.

Hyunjin moaned at the stretch, the initial discomfort now barely noticeable as the waves of pleasure returned. His grip tightened around the bedsheets as he felt himself grow dangerously close again.

"I-I'm close..." he gasped, his voice cracking under the pressure.
Felix, sensing it, quickened his pace, both with his mouth and his fingers, determined to pull every ounce of pleasure from him. His fingers pressed firmly into Hyunjin's prostate as his mouth worked him with expert rhythm.

Hyunjin's back arched high off the mattress as the orgasm ripped through him. "Ahhh! F-felix!" he cried, spilling into the younger's mouth. His body trembled violently as Felix kept sucking him gently, drawing out every last spurt before slowly pulling off.

The overstimulation hit hard. Hyunjin whimpered, tugging at Felix's hair weakly, desperate for a reprieve.

Felix finally relented, easing his fingers out as well. He licked his lips, swallowing the taste of Hyunjin, watching him with heavy-lidded eyes as Hyunjin collapsed fully against the bed, chest heaving.

"You're so beautiful like this," Felix whispered softly, admiration thick in his voice.

Hyunjin's face flushed bright red, his entire body feeling raw and exposed. He'd never let anyone see him like this before, so open, so vulnerable. And yet, as embarrassed as he was, he didn't want to hide from Felix.

Felix sat back, running his hands gently over Hyunjin's thighs. "We can stop here for tonight, if you want."

Hyunjin shook his head, still panting. "N-no... let's keep going."

"Are you sure?" Felix asked softly, his hand now resting over Hyunjin's fluttering stomach.

Hyunjin nodded, finding a surge of courage. Instead of replying with words, he reached over, grabbing the lube himself. He sat up slightly, squeezing a generous amount into his palm before shifting to face Felix. His hands moved to the younger's cock, slicking him up with slow, deliberate strokes.

Felix groaned instantly, eyes fluttering shut as Hyunjin's hand wrapped around him. "F-fuck, Hyung... just like that."

Hyunjin's strokes quickened, watching Felix's face intently as pleasure swept across his features. His own arousal was already returning, his cock twitching again as he watched Felix slowly lose control.

Felix started thrusting into Hyunjin's fist, his hips rolling into the movement, chasing his release. "Don't stop," he panted, his voice low, thick with desperation.

Hyunjin bit his lip, fascinated by the way Felix trembled beneath him. His hand tightened slightly as he pumped faster, determined to give Felix everything he'd given him.

Felix's rhythm stuttered as his orgasm hit, his body tensing, releasing hot cum into Hyunjin's hand. Groans fell from his lips as he rode out the high, shuddering under Hyunjin's continued strokes until it became too much.

Finally, Felix gently grabbed his wrist, stilling him. "Fuck, Hyunjin, you're gonna kill me," he breathed with a wide, dazed smile.

Hyunjin grinned shyly, lowering his hand and wiping the mess onto a tissue.

Chapter Text

Felix sat back on his heels, his chest still rising and falling from the rush of what had just passed between them. Hyunjin lay on his back, still flushed, his breathing uneven, eyes fluttering open only to shyly turn away again. His legs were spread slightly, thighs trembling from the lingering sensitivity, and his arms had come up to hide his face, his default reaction when he felt too exposed.

Felix reached over to the nightstand, grabbing a condom and the bottle of lube. The room was dim, lit only by the soft glow of the bedside lamp. It cast shadows over Hyunjin’s skin, making the damp sheen across his body glisten. He looked unreal. Fragile and wrecked, and utterly beautiful.

Felix rolled the condom on with steady fingers, his breath catching in his throat as his own arousal surged again. He coated himself generously with lube, not wanting to take any chances. Hyunjin watched him through his fingers like he was bracing for something unknown.

He leaned forward, placing a warm hand on Hyunjin’s abdomen, letting it rest there gently. The slight tremble beneath his palm told him everything. Felix softened his voice. “You okay?”

Hyunjin nodded, though he kept his arms over his face. His skin was flushed red, his whole body buzzing, caught somewhere between anticipation and fear. He wasn’t shaking out of reluctance, Felix could tell that much, he was just nervous. New to this. Vulnerable.

Felix leaned in and placed a soft kiss just above Hyunjin’s navel. “Look at me.”

Slowly, hesitantly, Hyunjin peeled his arms away, revealing eyes that were glassy but steady. He didn’t speak, just looked at him, lips slightly parted.

Felix reached down, positioning himself between Hyunjin’s legs. He guided his cock with one hand, the other gently gripping Hyunjin’s hip. He rubbed the tip against Hyunjin’s entrance, slow and careful, testing how the older reacted to the sensation.

Hyunjin tensed immediately, a sound caught between a whimper and a breath escaping him.

“I know,” Felix whispered. “It’s hard, but you have to try to relax. You’re doing so good.”

Another small nod from Hyunjin, though his eyes were now squeezed shut again, his jaw tight as he worked to control his breathing.

A darker part of Felix, the one he rarely acknowledged, whispered that he could just take him. Just grab his wrists, hold him down, and slide inside that perfect heat. But Felix shoved the thought away with a sharp inhale, grounding himself in the moment. Hyunjin wasn’t a fantasy, he was real. He was trusting him. And Felix refused to betray that.

“If this is too much, we can stop,” he said, voice softer now, more fragile than before. His thumb brushed against Hyunjin’s hipbone. “Just say the word.”

Hyunjin’s arms stayed down this time, though his blush deepened. He couldn’t make himself meet Felix’s gaze, but after a long breath, his eyes lifted, their gazes locking.

“I want to,” Hyunjin whispered. “Please… just keep going.”

Felix nodded slowly, giving him a moment to adjust, and then returned to his position. One hand guided himself while the other remained anchored on Hyunjin’s hip, grounding both of them. He began to press forward, just the tip, slow, inching in with deliberate patience.

Hyunjin gasped at the intrusion. The tight ring of muscle clamped down immediately, resisting the unfamiliar stretch. His face twisted in discomfort, his hands balling the sheets beneath him.

Felix froze, lifting his eyes. “Are you okay?”

Hyunjin nodded, but it was shaky. His voice was thin. “Y-yeah… I just… it’s a lot.”

“We can stop,” Felix offered again, despite the pressure building in his own body.

“No,” Hyunjin said quickly, voice trembling. “Just… go slow.”

Felix pressed a kiss to the inside of his thigh. “Of course.”

He pushed a little further in, just enough to breach the tight entrance. Hyunjin’s whole body jerked in response, and Felix glanced up again, only to freeze when he saw the tears slipping down the older man’s cheeks.

“Hyunjin,” he breathed, instantly alarmed. “Wait…”

“Keep going,” Hyunjin begged, voice broken. “Please, just, please.”

Felix’s heart cracked. He hated this part, the moment where pleasure and pain were tangled. He reached up, brushing away a tear with his thumb.

“You’re so tight,” he whispered. “You’re doing so well. But I need you to breathe. You’re clenching so hard, Jinnie.”

Hyunjin nodded again, forcing himself to relax his muscles even as his body screamed at him to stay tense. Felix waited patiently, holding still until he felt Hyunjin ease just enough. Then, slowly, he pushed further in, bit by bit, stopping each time he felt resistance.

The head of his cock finally popped past the rim, and Felix groaned involuntarily at the heat and tightness that enveloped him. It took everything in him not to move more, not to lose control.

Hyunjin cried out, fists gripping the bedding harder, his breath ragged.

“I know, I know,” Felix whispered, laying a hand flat against Hyunjin’s abdomen. “The worst is almost over, okay? Just a little more.”

“I-I can take it,” Hyunjin breathed, eyes glassy but determined.

Felix kissed his thigh again, then leaned up to press kisses along his flushed chest, his throat, his cheeks. Anything to ground him. To help him through.

“I’m going to push all the way in now,” Felix murmured. “It’ll be better than dragging it out. Is that okay?”

Hyunjin’s lips parted, but no sound came. He nodded instead, clenching his eyes shut and bracing himself. He knew it would hurt, he was already hurting, but he wanted this. He wanted Felix.

Felix groaned low in his throat as he gripped Hyunjin’s hips, adjusted his angle slightly, and then pushed forward in one slow, steady motion.

Hyunjin cried out again, louder this time. The fullness was unbearable, overwhelming. He buried his face into Felix’s neck, hiding himself, wrapping his arms around Felix’s shoulders and clinging to him like a lifeline.

Felix stilled the moment he bottomed out, letting out a shaky breath as he fought the urge to move. His hands soothed along Hyunjin’s back, his arms, whispering softly against his ear. “You’ve got me. I’ve got you. The worst part’s over now, Jinnie. I promise.”

Hyunjin’s tears slowed, breath evening out, though his body trembled beneath Felix’s. He stayed close, blanketing him in warmth, letting Hyunjin clutch him tightly, nails digging into his skin.

Felix pressed a kiss to Hyunjin’s temple. “Tell me when you’re ready.”

It took a few minutes before Hyunjin finally moved, his legs loosening their grip, his arms relaxing slightly. He opened his eyes, blinking up at Felix, his face flushed and tear-streaked.

“Are you okay?” Felix asked again, brushing a thumb over his cheek.

Hyunjin nodded. “Y-Yeah… I’m okay now.”

Felix smiled softly, leaning in to kiss him. Their mouths met gently, lips lingering as they both breathed each other in. When Hyunjin deepened the kiss, slipping his tongue past Felix’s lips, a soft moan slipped between them.

“I want you to move,” Hyunjin whispered against his mouth. “Please.”

Felix pulled back, eyes searching Hyunjin’s for any trace of doubt. When he found none, he nodded. He pressed another kiss to Hyunjin’s forehead, then slowly pulled his hips back, drawing out just a little before easing forward again.

Hyunjin tensed at first, a soft wince on his face, but it faded quickly. Felix moved carefully, retreating slightly before thrusting back in, just a little more firmly.

A moan slipped from Hyunjin’s lips. “Ah, ”

“You okay?” Felix asked, watching his face.

Hyunjin nodded again. “It feels better now…”

Felix built a rhythm slowly, his hands moving to brace on either side of Hyunjin’s body, watching every breath, every twitch of his brows, every shift in his expression.

“You’re so good for me,” Felix whispered, leaning down to kiss his jaw. “So fucking good.”

Hyunjin bit his lip, then finally opened his eyes again, looking up at Felix through half-lidded eyes. His fingers moved to Felix’s arms, gripping them gently.

“You don’t have to hold back,” he whispered.

Felix’s breath caught.

Hyunjin’s voice was still shaky, but the honesty in it floored him. There was trust in his words, a deep, raw kind that Felix didn’t take lightly.

“You sure?”

“I want to feel all of you,” Hyunjin said softly. “I can take it.”

Felix bent down, kissing him again, slower this time, filled with emotion rather than just hunger. When he pulled back, his gaze was steady.

“Tell me if it’s too much.”

And then he began to move, deeper, stronger. His pace shifted, his hips rolling with more intent, pulling gasps and moans from Hyunjin’s lips with every thrust. He angled his hips carefully until,

“A-Ah, right there!” Hyunjin cried, back arching off the bed.

Felix grinned. “There?”

“Yes, fuck, Felix…”

He kept hitting that spot, watching Hyunjin unravel beneath him. Sweat beaded on both their bodies, the room thick with the scent of sex and skin. Their moans blended, hands grasping, mouths colliding again and again between labored breaths.

Hyunjin’s nails dug into Felix’s biceps, legs wrapping around his waist now, pulling him in closer. “Don’t stop, please.”

“I won’t,” Felix panted. “Not letting go of you.”

And he didn’t. He stayed with Hyunjin every second, breath by breath, thrust by thrust, until the only thing left was them, moving together in perfect, messy, desperate rhythm.

Chapter Text

"F-fu-uck, F-Felix," Hyunjin stuttered, his voice already hoarse from moaning. His fingers clawed at the sheets beneath him, the muscles in his thighs trembling as Felix pounded into him with unrelenting rhythm. The bed creaked beneath them, soft gasps and harsh groans mixing with the sound of skin against skin.

Felix's hands were gripping Hyunjin's hips so tightly it felt like he'd leave bruises there, marks of want, of worship. "God, you feel so good," Felix breathed, his voice low and ragged. His thrusts never slowed, hips snapping forward again and again, the friction dizzying.

Hyunjin cried out as another sharp jolt of pleasure burst through him. Felix kept hitting that one spot, deep inside him, again and again. His legs trembled harder, and he barely had time to warn him. "C-cumming," he choked, body convulsing as his orgasm tore through him. His back arched off the mattress, mouth falling open as he spilled across his own stomach, moaning brokenly.

Felix didn't stop, he couldn't. He kept fucking him through it, even as Hyunjin writhed beneath him, too far gone to do anything but take it. Only when he heard the older whimper from the sharp sting of overstimulation did he finally slow, hips gradually easing into shallow thrusts before stilling completely.

Both of them were breathless, chests rising and falling as they tried to recover. Felix leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Hyunjin's parted lips.

"You okay, Jinnie?"

Hyunjin blinked up at him through a haze, his body still twitching with aftershocks. He gave a small nod, lips forming a dazed smile.
Felix chuckled and kissed him again. But when he shifted his hips slightly, Hyunjin whimpered beneath him, the movement of Felix's still-hard cock inside him making his body flinch. Felix stilled immediately, concern flashing across his face.

"You want to stop?" he asked gently, brushing a damp lock of hair from Hyunjin's forehead.

But Hyunjin's hands came up quickly, gripping Felix's shoulders with urgency. "No," he said, breath hitching. "Keep going. I want you to cum."

Felix kissed him again, a little slower this time. Then he pulled back slightly and asked, "Can we try a new position?"

Hyunjin nodded shyly, his cheeks were still flushed red. Felix slowly withdrew, and Hyunjin let a soft moan slip from his lips as he clenched down around nothing. He instinctively tried to close his legs, embarrassed by how raw and exposed he felt, but Felix only smiled down at him with a warmth that melted the shame instantly.

"Can you get on all fours for me?" Felix asked. "Closer to the edge of the bed?"

Hyunjin nodded and moved slowly, his limbs heavy and unsteady. He turned over, placing his knees beneath him and lowering his chest to the mattress. His ass lifted obediently in the air, his flushed, slick hole on display. He didn't dare look at Felix, he already knew the younger's eyes were dark with want.

"Put your chest down, just like that," Felix murmured, voice lower now. Rougher.

Hyunjin buried his face into the bed, arms bent beneath him, trying to steady his shaking breaths. He could still feel the phantom of Felix's cock inside him, the dull ache of the stretch, and the anticipation of having him again made him clench involuntarily.

"Good boy," Felix murmured, one hand smoothing down his spine before reaching lower to knead the softness of Hyunjin's ass. "You look so sexy like this. All open for me."

A sharp, hot rush of embarrassment flooded through Hyunjin. He whimpered, face turning deeper red as he clenched again. "S-stop saying things like that," he muttered, muffled by the bedsheets.

Felix chuckled, leaning in. His hands spread Hyunjin's cheeks wider, and then something wet and warm pressed against the older's rim.

Hyunjin jolted, hips trying to jerk forward. "W-what are you, Felix!"

Felix didn't answer. His tongue flattened and swirled over the sensitive ring of muscle, savoring the taste, moaning softly into the older's skin. He held Hyunjin in place with strong hands, keeping him from squirming away.

Hyunjin was mortified. He'd never, no one had ever done this to him. He didn't know if he liked it, didn't know if he was supposed to, but the moment Felix's tongue slipped inside, all the shame vanished under the weight of the overwhelming pleasure.

His head buried more into the bed. He moaned, fingers tangling into the sheets as Felix licked and teased his hole like he was starving for it.

"F-Felix... ah, fuck, please, " Hyunjin begged, hips twitching as the younger devoured him. He was leaking again already, even though he'd just cum. It was ridiculous. Shameful. Addictive.

Felix finally pulled back, licking his lips. His eyes were heavy with lust. "You taste so good. I could stay down there all night."

Hyunjin let out a strangled sound, shaking his hips slightly in frustration. He couldn't believe how needy he was becoming.
Felix raised his hand and delivered a quick, sharp slap to Hyunjin's ass.

Hyunjin gasped, his cock jerking beneath him. "Felix!"

Felix smirked. "What? Did you like that?"

Hyunjin didn't answer. He was too flustered, hiding his face in the sheets as his fingers curled tighter around the fabric. His thighs trembled, and the anticipation only made the ache worse.

Felix reached for the lube again, squeezing more out directly onto Hyunjin's rim. The cold sensation made him jerk, gasping.

"Still with me, Jinnie?" Felix asked, rubbing his cock through the lube now dripping down Hyunjin's entrance.

"Y-yeah," Hyunjin said, voice trembling. "Just, please..."

Felix gripped himself and lined up, gently pressing the tip to Hyunjin's slicked entrance. "Do you want me to put my cock inside you?" he asked, voice rough. "Do you want me to fuck you until you're a moaning mess?"

Hyunjin moaned loudly, unable to hide his response. "Y-yes please, Felix. Please f-fuck m-me."

Felix groaned. That was it, he couldn't wait anymore. He pushed in slowly, both of them moaning at the stretch. Hyunjin's hole welcomed him back reluctantly, clenching down hard, but yielding. Felix grit his teeth, bottoming out in one steady thrust. Hyunjin cried out, legs trembling.

"Y-you're so deep," he whimpered, as he fisted the sheets beneath him harder. The younger hit his prostate perfectly, and he had to grit his teeth so as not to cum immediately.

Felix started to move, pulling back and thrusting in again, setting a steady, punishing pace. His eyes never left the place where their bodies connected, watching as his cock disappeared inside Hyunjin over and over.

But he wanted more. He leaned forward, pressing against Hyunjin's back. With one arm, he reached under and hooked around Hyunjin's chest, pulling him upright.

"W-what, what are you doing?" Hyunjin asked, breathless, his voice already falling apart.

"Just lean back on me," Felix whispered, positioning them upright, his chest flush against Hyunjin's back. "Let me hold you."

Hyunjin obeyed, moaning loudly as the change in angle drove Felix even deeper inside. His back arched, his body shivering as his walls fluttered around Felix's cock. He didn't know how much more he could take.

Felix's free hand moved to Hyunjin's stomach, pressing gently. "Do you feel that?"

"F-feel what?" Hyunjin whined.
Felix pressed harder, right above where his cock was buried inside him. "That's me, inside you."

"D-don't," Hyunjin gasped, overwhelmed. The pressure, the intimacy, the stretch, it was too much. His cock twitched again, dripping against his stomach.

Then, without warning, he came again. His orgasm hit fast and hard, his body going rigid as he spilled across the bed in front of him.
Felix groaned at the feeling of Hyunjin's walls clenching around him, tighter than ever. He didn't stop, he couldn't. He held Hyunjin against him, fucking him through the orgasm, chasing his own.

With a final deep thrust, Felix's breath hitched. His body tensed and he came hard, filling the condom, his moans muffled into the crook of Hyunjin's neck.

They stayed like that for a long moment, tangled together, gasping for breath.

Eventually, Felix eased them both down, gently laying Hyunjin onto his side and sliding out carefully. He removed the condom, tying it off and tossing it into the trash before returning to clean them both with a warm towel.

Hyunjin didn't say much, he didn't have to. He was dazed, blissed out, and glowing.

Felix lay behind him, wrapping an arm around Hyunjin's waist and pressing a kiss to the nape of his neck.

"I've got you," he whispered. "You were so good for me."

Chapter Text

Hyunjin woke up with a jolt. His breath caught in his throat as his eyes darted around the unfamiliar room, pupils adjusting to the pale blue light creeping in through the window blinds. His heart pounded hard against his ribs as the lingering haze of sleep clashed with the disorienting reality of where he was.

Then he felt it. A warm weight across his torso. A steady breath tickling the back of his neck. He turned his head slightly and saw Felix.

The younger was curled up behind him, still asleep, one arm draped possessively over Hyunjin's waist. His bare chest pressed against Hyunjin's back, and their legs were tangled loosely beneath the blankets, his fingers rested just above Hyunjin's navel, unconsciously gripping him close like he didn't want to let go. Felix's face was relaxed, lips parted just slightly, lashes brushing against flushed cheeks. He looked peaceful.

Hyunjin's heart skipped, and then crashed. The memories came flooding back like a wave too strong to fight. Every moan, every whisper, every whispered promise that felt far too much like hope. they had shared last night surged forward in vivid clarity. His face burned with the weight of it. He squeezed his eyes shut, jaw tightening.

Why the fuck did I let that happen? He asked himself. He ran a hand through his messy hair, fingers catching on a tangle. His throat felt dry. There was still the faint, lingering ache in his body from how thoroughly Felix had taken him, how tender and relentless he had been. Hyunjin shivered at the memory, at how open and exposed he had allowed himself to be.

And now here he was. Lying in the aftermath. Wrapped in Felix's arms. He should've felt content, maybe even satisfied. But instead, all he could feel was the gnawing edge of panic. Of regret, not for what they had done, but for how much it meant. For how dangerous that meaning was.

This couldn't work. Whatever this was, it couldn't last. Not with the world waiting for them on the other side of this bed. Not with expectations, obligations, the past, his past, always hanging like a weight around his neck.

And yet...he didn't move.Every fiber in his body told him to get up. To slip out from under the sheets, get dressed, and disappear before Felix could open his eyes and say something sweet that would make staying harder.

But his heart betrayed him. He stayed frozen in place. He turned his head slightly, enough to see Felix's face again, peaceful, beautiful, unguarded. His fingers twitched with the urge to reach out, to brush the hair from the younger's face.

No, he thought. He needed to go. Before the illusion got stronger. Before he forgot himself completely.

Hyunjin glanced around the room, trying not to shift too much. His eyes landed on the edge of the nightstand, where his phone peeked out beneath his jeans. Carefully, slowly, he extended an arm and grabbed it, trying not to wake the man still asleep beside him.

But the moment his thumb lit up the screen, his stomach dropped. 8 Missed Calls and 13 Messages

Two names filled the screen. Changbin and Lee Know. Hyunjin's blood ran cold.

He opened the first thread:

Changbin: Where the hell are you??
Changbin: You didn't check in.
Changbin: Are you with someone?
Changbin: Look, I'm not going to tell you what to do, but Lee Know's asking questions.
Changbin: He knows you slipped out last night. He's pissed.
Changbin: Just... be careful, Jinnie. Please.

Hyunjin's hands started to shake as he tapped open the next thread

Lee Know: Where are you?
Lee Know: We need to talk.
Lee Know: The shipment came in and we have a new route.
Lee Know: I need you to help finalize the drop details.
Lee Know: This isn't a game.
Lee Know: Call me. Now.

Hyunjin swallowed hard. The air around him suddenly felt too heavy, like it had thickened while he slept. His throat closed up. There was no way he could explain this. No way to make what happened last night sound rational. It didn't matter that it felt real, too real.

Reality was waiting. And it didn't care how warm this bed was or how good Felix's arms felt around him. I need to leave. He sat up slightly, moving slowly, trying not to rouse Felix.

"You okay?" came a low, sleepy voice behind him.

Hyunjin froze.

Felix stirred, propping himself up on an elbow, his hair a messy halo around his face, eyes still half-lidded with sleep. His voice was thick and raspy as he spoke again. "Jinnie?"

"Y-yeah," Hyunjin said too quickly. He swallowed hard and looked away. "I didn't mean to wake you."

Felix let out a soft sound, somewhere between a hum and a sigh. He leaned in and wrapped his arm around Hyunjin again, pulling him gently back down into the warmth of the bed.

"It's okay," he murmured against Hyunjin's shoulder. "Go back to sleep."

Hyunjin let himself be pulled in, even as his chest tightened. The warmth was unbearable, the kind of comfort that threatened to make him forget himself completely. But then the phone vibrated again in his hand. Another message from Lee Know.

Lee Know: If I don't hear from you in the next 10 minutes, I'm coming to find you myself.

Hyunjin sat up, panic bubbling up in his chest. "I have to go," he said, too quickly, too sharply.

Felix blinked, propping himself up on one elbow. "What? Why?"

Hyunjin swallowed hard, trying to find a way to explain it. "Lee Know's looking for me. I-I wasn't supposed to be gone this long."

Felix's brows furrowed. "Just stay 'til the morning," he said softly. "Whatever it is, it can wait."

"No, it can't," Hyunjin said, standing now, dragging the blanket with him for cover. His phone buzzed again in his hand. "I wasn't supposed to disappear last night."

Felix sat up more fully, the sheets falling around his waist. "So you're just going to sneak out before sunrise like this meant nothing?"

Hyunjin flinched. "That's not what I..."

Felix ran a hand through his hair, his face hardening with something more complicated than anger. "Then tell me what it is."

Hyunjin opened his mouth, but no words came. He didn't know how to explain that he wanted to stay. That leaving was the last thing he wanted, but the only thing he could do.

"This..." he gestured between them, voice raw. "....doesn't belong in the world I live in."

Felix's eyes searched his. "Then leave that world."

"You don't understand. It's not that simple," Hyunjin whispered. "If I stay,I put you at risk."

Felix took Hyunjin's face in both hands. "I knew what I was doing when I opened that door for you tonight."

Hyunjin's eyes welled. "And I knew what I was doing when I walked through it. That's what makes this so fucking hard."

"Then stay," Felix whispered. "Just a little longer. Stay until morning."

Hyunjin hesitated, his grip on the phone tightening. The message from Lee Know burned on the screen. But so did the warmth of Felix's hands on his face.

He closed his eyes, pressed his forehead to Felix's, and whispered, "Just a little longer."

Felix exhaled shakily, pulling Hyunjin back into his embrace. Hyunjin let him. Let himself be held. Let himself believe, if only for one more hour, that he could have this. That he could want something and not have to run from it. That Felix wouldn't vanish if he dared to stay.

Chapter Text

Hyunjin lay still, eyes fixed on the ceiling. His body was warm, tucked under the heavy duvet, limbs relaxed against the soft mattress, but his mind hadn't rested once since he opened his eyes. His phone was still clutched loosely in one hand, the light from the screen casting a pale glow across his face.

He sighed softly and thumbed out a message.

Lee Know: I'll be back at the office later this morning.

That was all he could manage. He didn't wait for a reply. He knew better than to expect softness from Lee Know, especially after ignoring his calls all night. Hyunjin could almost see the older's jaw clenched in irritation, the accusatory glare that would greet him later. But none of that mattered right now. Not with Felix still asleep beside him.

The younger man had curled up again sometime during the early morning hours, arm wrapped loosely around Hyunjin's waist, face buried against the slope of his neck. Hyunjin could feel Felix's soft breaths ghosting over his skin, each exhale grounding him in a way he didn't know he needed. He turned slightly, careful not to disturb him, just to get a better look.
Felix looked so peaceful like this. Lips parted slightly, hair tousled and messy, lashes dark against the pale gold of his cheekbones. There was something innocent about the way he slept, something untouched by the weight of the world Hyunjin belonged to. And that made it worse.

Hyunjin didn't know how long he stayed there, watching, memorizing, aching, but it felt like a lifetime and an instant all at once. He wished he could stay. He wished that this bed, this quiet room, this steady heartbeat beside him, could be his world. But it wasn't. It never would be.

I need to break ties, he thought. He closed his eyes, the thought cutting deeper than he expected. I can't put him in more danger than he already is. He doesn't know what it means to choose me. It would be betraying everything he knows. And he couldn't ask Felix to carry that weight.

Because the truth was brutal, the only way out of this life was to disappear. To run. To leave behind everything and everyone. Hyunjin had known that for years. And maybe, in another life, he would've had the luxury of choosing love. But not this one.

The sun began to rise, casting golden lines across the walls. The light brushed against Felix's bare shoulder, making his skin glow. Morning was coming fast. And with it, reality.

Hyunjin exhaled slowly, carefully peeling the covers off his lower body. He took his time, moving with the kind of silence only someone trained in stealth could manage. He eased Felix's arm off his waist, replacing himself with a pillow.

The younger shifted slightly but didn't wake. Hyunjin stood, naked and cold, and grabbed his clothes from the floor, quickly pulling on his underwear and jeans. He'd made it to his shirt when he heard the rustle of sheets behind him.

"Really?" Felix's voice, low and rough with sleep, cut through the quiet. "You were actually going to sneak out?"

Hyunjin froze, one sleeve halfway up his arm. He turned slowly, startled to see Felix sitting up in bed, blanket pooled around his waist. His hair was messy, his eyes puffy with sleep, but wide awake now.

"You're awake," Hyunjin said lamely.

"And you're leaving," Felix replied, voice flat, unreadable.

Silence settled between them. Hyunjin's heart pounded in his chest. His throat went dry.

Felix looked at him, eyes flicking to the phone in his hand, then back to his half-buttoned shirt. "No note? No goodbye? You were just going to vanish?"

"I didn't want to wake you," Hyunjin said quietly.
Felix let out a sharp laugh, humorless. "You didn't want to wake me, or you didn't want to face me?"

Hyunjin looked away. The answer was both. He didn't know how to look at Felix's face, at the softness that still lingered in his eyes, without cracking open. Without wanting to stay. And he couldn't afford to want that.

"I have to go," Hyunjin said, his voice tight. It was the only truth he could manage.

Felix sat up straighter, the sheets falling from his waist as he stared at him. "Then why do you look like walking away is the last thing you want to do?"

Hyunjin's shoulders tensed, his gaze faltering.
Felix pushed the covers back and stood, bare feet meeting the cool floor as he slowly approached. He didn't rush, he didn't need to. Every step was measured, quiet, laced with quiet disbelief.

"You let me hold you," Felix said softly, stopping just a few feet away. "You let me see you. You kissed me like it was the first thing you believed in. And now you're acting like it was some passing mistake?"

Hyunjin swallowed hard. "It wasn't a mistake," he whispered. "It meant more than I can explain."

"Then why are you leaving?" Felix asked, voice sharper now, not angry, just hurt. "Why do something like that if you were never planning to stay?"

Hyunjin looked up at him, the pain raw in his eyes. "Because it meant too much. That's why I can't stay."

Felix's mouth parted, but no words came out at first. He ran a hand through his hair, trying to hold himself steady. When he spoke again, it was quiet but firm.

"You don't walk away from something that means too much, Hyunjin. You hold onto it. You fight for it, especially when it scares you."

Hyunjin looked up sharply.

"That's bullshit, Hyunjin. You don't run away from something that means everything. You fight for it."
Hyunjin's fingers trembled around the hem of his shirt.

"You don't understand. This world I live in, it's not yours. It's not kind. It doesn't make room for softness or for... people like you."

"People like me?" Felix echoed. "You mean people who care about you? Who want more than one night in secret?"

"You don't know what it would cost you," Hyunjin said, voice rising slightly now. "To be with me. Really be with me. It's not just complicated, it's dangerous. I'm not normal, Felix. I can't give you peace."

Felix took another step forward. "I'm not asking you for perfect. I'm asking you for honesty."

Hyunjin's throat tightened. "I can't stay."

"Why?"

Hyunjin couldn't bring himself to meet Felix's eyes. He didn't want to make him choose, between the life he knew and the shadowed one Hyunjin lived in. Between his job, his friends, his morals... everything that made him Felix. He couldn't ask him to turn his back on all of that. To live hidden in the shadows with him. To lose himself.

"If I stay," Hyunjin said, voice low and unsteady, "I won't be able to leave. And I can't ask you to follow me into a life that would strip you of everything you are."

Felix's gaze was unreadable, steady on him for a long, aching moment. Then, softer, he asked, "Do you think I'm weak?"

Hyunjin's head snapped up. "What? No..."

"Because every time you push me away," Felix said, his voice barely more than a whisper, "it feels like you do. Like you've already decided I can't handle your world. Like I'm some fragile thing that would break if I stepped too close."

"I'm trying to protect you," Hyunjin snapped before he could stop himself, his voice catching in the rawness of it. His eyes burned. "From me. From a life I didn't choose but can't escape. From the way it eats at people until there's nothing left."

Felix said nothing at first. The silence between them stretched, thick and trembling. Hyunjin's breath came in shallow bursts, his chest tight, jaw clenched so hard it ached. He blinked rapidly, trying to stay composed, but everything in him was unraveling.

Then Felix stepped forward. Without a word, he reached out and pressed a hand to Hyunjin's chest, right over his heart. The touch was light, but it hit harder than any accusation could. His voice, when it came, was soft. "I'm not asking you to be perfect," he murmured. "I'm just asking you to let me choose."

Hyunjin's eyes fluttered shut. That warmth, steady and certain beneath Felix's palm, was the only thing keeping him standing. But it wasn't enough to make him stay. His voice cracked as he whispered, "I can't."

Felix's hand slowly dropped to his side. His expression didn't change, but something in his eyes dimmed. "Then go," he said quietly.

Hyunjin's throat closed.

"I won't beg you to stay," Felix added, more gently now. "Because I don't want to keep you out of guilt or fear. I want you to come back because you want to. On your own terms. Not because you feel trapped."

Hyunjin looked at him, wishing he could say something, anything, that would make this easier. But nothing came. So he just nodded. He turned away, grabbing his shirt off the floor and sliding it on with shaking hands. His fingers fumbled with the buttons, and when he picked up his phone, the screen flashed with another message from Lee Know. He didn't open it. He walked to the door, hesitating with his hand on the knob. He turned.

Felix hadn't moved. He stood there silently, bare and open in every way, watching him with eyes that still held too much hope.

Hyunjin's voice was barely audible. "I'm sorry."

Felix nodded slowly. "I know."

And with that, Hyunjin slipped out the door. The quiet that followed was deafening, an ache that settled into the walls, into the sheets, into the place where they had almost been something more.

Chapter Text

The city hadn’t even fully woken when Hyunjin dragged himself back into his office at HH Art. The sun was still low on the horizon, spilling pale streaks of light that bled through the floor-to-ceiling windows and across the polished hardwood floors. Morning should have felt like renewal, but for him, it only clawed at his already frayed nerves.

His body ached with exhaustion, but his mind refused to stop. Every memory of the night clung to him like smoke, Felix’s warmth pressed against him, the grounding weight of his arms, the soft words that had soothed cracks Hyunjin hadn’t realized were splitting open. And then, the sharp contrast of leaving. Of looking into Felix’s eyes, seeing not only desire but something more dangerous: conviction.

Hyunjin’s jaw tightened as he stalked toward the liquor cabinet tucked in the corner of his office. He didn’t even bother with a glass at first, just unscrewed the cap and poured until the burn slid down his throat, dulling the tightness in his chest. He set the tumbler down harder than he intended, the echo startling in the stillness of the morning.

One drink turned to another. He tried to steady his hands, tried to quiet his thoughts, but Felix’s face lingered no matter how much amber he swallowed. The reassurance in his touch, the overwhelming pleasure that had nearly broken him apart, and then, the look in Felix’s eyes when Hyunjin had pushed him away.

It was unbearable.

Hyunjin poured again, staring out the wide pane of glass that framed the city below. Streets slowly stirred alive, cars flowing like veins through arteries of asphalt, people hurrying toward their routines. They had no idea what it was like to live with shadows pressing at your heels, to know that every decision was laced with threat. He envied them.

He had just drained the last swallow of his glass when a sharp knock interrupted his solitude. Hyunjin froze, irritation flickering in his chest.

The door opened before he could answer. Lee Know stepped inside.

Hyunjin turned slowly, his expression schooled into icy composure, but his gaze locked on the older man with deliberate sharpness. Lee Know bowed as custom demanded, though the movement carried an edge of reluctance that did not escape Hyunjin’s notice.

“You disappeared last night,” Lee Know said as he straightened, his tone deceptively neutral.

Hyunjin set his glass down on the desk with a soft clink, the sound almost mocking in the silence between them. His voice came out smooth but laced with authority that tolerated no challenge.

“I didn’t realize I needed to report my movements to you.”

The air thickened instantly. The weight of Hyunjin’s authority was undeniable, but Lee Know didn’t flinch. His dark eyes remained steady, assessing, careful.

“You don’t,” he conceded after a beat, his words measured. “But we had a shipment come in, and no one could reach you. I was…worried.”

Hyunjin’s eyes narrowed, a slow burn behind his gaze. Worry? He almost laughed. The word rang hollow, a poor disguise for suspicion. He knew Lee Know well enough to see through the lie, the older wasn’t worried about him, not truly. Concern in this world was never so selfless. It was always about leverage, control, appearances.

“Your concern is noted,” Hyunjin said finally, his tone cutting, meant to remind Lee Know that he was not to be trifled with. “But I’m here now. Give me a status update.”

Lee Know straightened his shoulders, bowing his head briefly in acknowledgment before stepping forward. He pulled a folder from under his arm and laid it on the desk, flipping it open with precise fingers.

“The shipment arrived on schedule,” he began. “Most of the product was accounted for, but there was an issue with customs. We had to reroute some crates to the secondary dock. It caused delays.”

Hyunjin listened in silence, his gaze fixed on Lee Know’s face rather than the neat rows of numbers and notes inside the folder. The way the older’s jaw tensed when he mentioned the reroute, the flicker of calculation in his eyes, it told Hyunjin more than the words themselves.

“And you handled it?” Hyunjin asked finally, leaning back against his desk, arms crossing over his chest.

“Yes,” Lee Know said simply, though his tone carried weight. “But it would have been easier if you had been reachable.”

There it was. The quiet accusation hidden beneath professional formality.

Hyunjin tilted his head, studying him. “Are you implying I failed my role?”

Lee Know’s gaze flickered, just for a fraction of a second, before he steadied himself. “No, sir. I’m stating a fact. Our operations depend on cohesion. Absence… leaves room for cracks.”

The silence that followed was sharp, like glass on the edge of shattering. Hyunjin’s temper flickered beneath his ribs, but he held it tight, reined in behind a cold mask. He would not give Lee Know the satisfaction of seeing him unsettled.

“I suggest you focus on sealing those cracks, then,” Hyunjin said smoothly. “That’s your job, isn’t it?”

Lee Know’s lips pressed into a thin line, but he bowed again, lower this time. “Yes, sir.”

For a moment, neither moved. The tension in the room was a living thing, pressing against the walls, filling every corner. Hyunjin knew what this was, Lee Know testing boundaries, looking for weakness. And he knew, too, that last night’s absence had been noticed. Too many eyes were always watching, waiting for even the smallest fracture to exploit.

But what they didn’t know, what he couldn’t let them know, was that the fracture wasn’t in his role, or in his leadership. It was in him. It was Felix. The thought hit him like a strike to the chest, unbidden and relentless. His grip on the desk tightened until his knuckles whitened.

“Is there anything else?” Hyunjin asked at last, his voice calm, dismissive.

Lee Know hesitated, just a flicker, before closing the folder and tucking it back under his arm. “No. That’s all.”

“Good,” Hyunjin said. He turned back toward the window, deliberately showing his back. A silent dismissal.

Lee Know lingered for a breath too long, as if weighing whether to push further, but then he bowed once more and left, the click of the door closing behind him echoing like a gunshot in the empty office.

Hyunjin stood alone again, staring out over the awakening city. But the calm he tried to force never came. His reflection in the glass stared back at him, tired eyes, a mask of power barely holding together.

Felix’s words replayed in his head, softer now, almost cruel in their tenderness.“Because every time you push me away, it feels like you think I’m weak… Like I’m some glass thing you have to protect.”

Hyunjin closed his eyes, but it didn’t stop the memory of Felix’s gaze, steady and unyielding even in the face of rejection. No, Felix wasn’t weak. That was the problem.

And if Hyunjin wasn’t careful, that strength, the very thing he admired, the very thing that drew him in, would be what destroyed them both.

Hyunjin slumped back into his chair once Lee Know left, the echo of the closing door ringing louder than it should have. He dragged his hands over his face, nails scraping against his skin as if he could claw away the exhaustion that clung to him. The glass in front of him was still warm from where his fingers had wrapped around it, and without hesitation, he filled it again. The burn down his throat did nothing to numb the ache in his chest.

Felix’s face wouldn’t leave him. The softness in his eyes, the way his freckled cheeks flushed when Hyunjin kissed him, the quiet but steady way he said stay. Hyunjin had heard desperation in people’s voices before, begging, pleading, but with Felix, it had been different. It wasn’t desperation. It was hope. And Hyunjin had crushed it with his own two hands.

He slammed the empty glass down too hard, the sound sharp against the desk. “Pathetic,” he muttered to himself, venom twisting in his voice. “Completely pathetic.”

The liquor did little to quiet his thoughts, so he poured more, drinking until the edge of the world softened. But it didn’t silence the memory of Felix’s lips, the taste of his skin, the way his voice had cracked when he asked why do you look like you’re breaking your own heart?

Hyunjin groaned and shoved himself up from his chair, pacing the office. His reflection in the wide glass windows sneered back at him, a man dressed in power, but hollow inside. The glass in his hand trembled as he glared at himself, at the reminder of everything he was trying to bury.

“I can’t,” his voice broke, sharp in the silence. He hurled the glass against the wall, watching it shatter, amber liquid streaking down the paint like blood. His chest rose and fell in uneven gasps, hands shaking as if the pieces on the floor reflected the mess inside him.

Hyunjin sank back into his chair, head dropping into his hands. The alcohol swirled with the ache in his veins, but nothing drowned out the truth clawing its way to the surface.

He wanted Felix. Not just his body, not just his lips, not just the way he made him feel alive when everything else had grown cold. He wanted all of him, the comfort, the warmth, the maddening hope in his eyes. And that was the one thing Hyunjin couldn’t allow himself to have.

His laugh was broken, bitter. “You really are weak,” he whispered, more to himself than anyone else.

The sun outside climbed higher, the streets alive with people who didn’t know the weight pressing on him. Behind his locked door, Hyunjin poured himself another drink with unsteady hands, drowning, because it was easier than admitting he was already too far gone.

Chapter Text

Felix wanted nothing more than to vanish. To pull the sheets over his head, lock the door, and drown in the kind of quiet that could numb him from the ache clawing at his chest. But quiet wasn't peace, it was a breeding ground for thoughts, and right now, his thoughts were a storm tearing him apart.

Last night was too much. Too good. Too dangerous. The softness of Hyunjin's lips, the desperation laced with tenderness in his touch, the way his voice broke when he whispered, stay. It had all felt so real that for one brief, treacherous moment, Felix believed it. Believed that Hyunjin could choose him.

But hope was cruel like that, sweet in the moment, bitter in the morning.

Felix sat on the edge of the bed, shoulders slumped as he stared at the phone in his hand. The screen glowed harshly in the dim room, mocking him with the truth he didn't want to face. Dozens of notifications stacked like accusations

Chan:Where the hell are you? Check in.
Chan:This isn't like you, Lix. Talk to me.
Chan:I swear, if you don't answer, I'm driving to your place.

Below those were others, fragments of concern and tension.

I.N:You good? Just say something, hyung. Anything.

Felix's chest constricted. His fingers hovered over the keyboard, but the words wouldn't come. He couldn't tell them he was okay, because he wasn't. He couldn't tell them the truth either, that the reason he'd gone silent wasn't a tactical slip, but a personal one. That while his team was out in the dark intercepting weapons, he'd been in with their enemy, breaking every rule he'd set for himself.

With a sharp breath, he locked the screen and tossed the phone onto the nightstand.

The shower roared to life a moment later, steam curling in the air as Felix stepped under the punishing heat. Water pounded against his skin, scalding enough to redden the pale dusting of freckles across his shoulders, but it didn't burn away the memory of Hyunjin's hands gripping him, nails biting into his back as if letting go would shatter them both.

The images came in fragments, Hyunjin beneath him, flushed and trembling, the soft gasp that slipped past his lips when Felix kissed the hollow of his throat, the whispered "please" that nearly undid him.

Felix groaned, pressing his forehead against the slick tile. His fist tightened around his cock almost without thought, working in slow, rough strokes as frustration and longing tangled in his veins. The sounds tearing from his throat were muffled against his own arm, guttural and low. He came with a sharp exhale, his body shuddering under the cascade of heat, but the relief was hollow.

When it was over, he stood there for a long moment, chest heaving, staring at the water swirling down the drain. He felt raw, skin scrubbed clean but heart still filthy with want.

By the time he stepped out, the mirror was a fogged blur. Felix wiped a streak through it with his palm and caught his own reflection, damp hair clinging to his forehead, eyes red-rimmed not from tears but from exhaustion he couldn't shake. He hated what he saw. Hated the weakness staring back at him.

Clothes were armor today: black jeans, fitted shirt, combat boots laced with precision. Every movement was mechanical, rehearsed, the rhythm of a man clinging to control because the alternative was collapse.

By the time he reached the compound, the sun was bleeding gold across the skyline, sharp and unforgiving. He swiped his keycard, the steel door unlocking with a hollow click that echoed louder than it should have.

Inside, voices stilled the moment he stepped in. His team was already gathered around the main table, maps and intel spread like an autopsy. Chan's eyes snapped to his the second he entered, sharp and unrelenting.

"Where have you been?" The words weren't barked, they were worse than that. Quiet. Weighted.

Felix dropped his gear onto the table, his expression a mask carved from stone. "I got caught up in something." His tone was clipped, distant. "I'm fine."

"Fine?" Chan's jaw worked, but before the tension could crack into an argument, Felix cut across him with military precision.

"Update me."

For a moment, Chan just stared at him, something fierce simmering behind his eyes. Then he exhaled slowly and leaned over the map. "Shipment came in last night. We intercepted most of it, but..." His finger tapped a point on the grid, hard enough to rattle the paper. "We didn't get everything."

Felix's entire body went rigid. The word shipment slammed into him like a cold blade. Hyunjin had mentioned it this morning, right before he walked out and left Felix standing there like a fool. The memory clawed at him, ripping through the fragile lockbox he'd tried to bury his thoughts in.

He forced his jaw to unclench, his voice steady even as dread coiled in his gut. "How much slipped?"

"Enough to matter," Chan said. His tone sharpened. "We could've used you last night."

The words landed like a blow, but Felix barely felt them. His mind was somewhere else, running through every scenario he didn't want to face. If Hyunjin had knowledge of this drop...if his crew was tied to it...if they ended up face-to-face on opposite ends of a rifle, what then? Could he pull the trigger if it came to that? Or worse, could he stand there and watch someone else do it?

The words landed like a blow. The silence that followed was heavier than the armor strapped across Felix's chest.

He cleared his throat, ignoring the heat creeping up his neck and the weight pressing on his lungs. "Any new intel on the remaining weapons?"

"No," Chan said flatly. "But I've got a lead on where they're headed. Secondary drop point. Dockside. South end."

Felix leaned in, eyes narrowing as Chan traced the route with his fingertip. The familiar hum of focus thrummed through his veins, a lifeline he clung to. Missions didn't judge. They didn't ask questions about the mess you were inside. They just demanded execution.

"Gear up," Felix ordered, straightening. His voice was steel now, cutting clean through the room. "We move in fifteen."

No one argued. Chairs scraped back, boots pounded against concrete, the metallic cadence of weapons locking into place echoing like a drumbeat.

Chan lingered for a moment, his gaze burning holes in Felix's back. "Lix, "

"Not now," Felix said, his tone sharp enough to draw blood.

For a long second, Chan said nothing. Then he nodded once and walked away, the tension coiling between them like barbed wire.

Felix adjusted the strap of his rifle, the weight grounding him in a way nothing else could. He shoved everything else, Hyunjin's voice, the taste of his skin, the raw truth clawing at his chest, into the deepest pit inside him and sealed it shut. There was no room for that here. Not when the world outside was ready to bleed. And god help him if Hyunjin was anywhere near that dock, because Felix didn't know which would destroy him faster, pulling the trigger or lowering the gun.

Fifteen minutes later, the team was locked, loaded, and ready. I.N checked comms one last time, his voice calm but clipped as the static cleared in Felix's earpiece. Han and Seungmin double-checked their gear, strapping blades tight and adjusting the matte finish on their rifles. The metallic click of magazines locking into place echoed off the concrete like a countdown.

The van door slid shut with a slam that broke the silence. They filed in without a word, faces grim, movements sharp with precision. The ride was quiet, too quiet. Felix sat near the door, gloved hands resting on his rifle, jaw clenching as the streets bled past in a blur of gray. He wasn't sure if the silence was concentration or something heavier lingering in the air. Either way, it pressed against them like a storm front.

Every turn of the tires wound Felix tighter. He could still hear Chan's voice in his head from earlier, We could've used you last night. And beneath that, something worse: the memory of Hyunjin mentioning the shipment before slipping out the door.

Felix's gut knotted. He couldn't shake the thought: what if Hyunjin was there? What if this wasn't just a mission, but a collision course? Would he have the steel to do what had to be done, or would the sight of those dark, defiant eyes split him clean down the middle?

The van jerked to a halt three blocks from the docks. Felix swung the door open, boots crunching against wet asphalt as the team spilled into formation. The sharp bite of salt and diesel hung in the air, thick and oppressive. Beyond the chain-link fences, cranes loomed like skeletal giants, and rows of rust-streaked containers stood silent, their chipped paint hiding secrets behind corrugated steel.

Felix dropped into a crouch, scanning the perimeter before pulling the team close. His voice was low, even, but laced with command.

"Han, Seungmin, find a route in. Quiet. No alarms, no eyes. If the clan catches wind, this whole op burns."

Both men nodded sharply. Felix turned to Chan. "You and I take high ground. If the shipment's here, we'll see it first."

Chan gave a curt nod, but his eyes lingered on Felix a fraction too long, like he could read the war playing out inside him. Felix ignored it, his face a mask of iron.

"Once you secure an entry, update comms," Felix continued, his gaze sweeping over the team. "We'll give you a meeting point after we confirm the container. Move fast. Daylight's a disadvantage, and I want this locked before the clan relocates."

Acknowledgments murmured. Then the team scattered, melting into steel and shadow.

Felix adjusted the strap of his rifle and glanced up at the jagged skyline of cranes before signaling Chan to move. His boots were silent against the gravel, but his pulse thundered like gunfire in his ears.

Chapter Text

The sky was heavy with clouds, gray light pressing low over the shipping yard like a lid. Even in daylight, the world felt muted, the kind of weather that made everything blur at the edges. It worked in their favor, cover without darkness, shadows stretched long enough to move unseen.

Felix crouched low on the rooftop beside Chan, scanning the sprawl of containers below. The air was thick with salt and oil, the distant groan of cranes echoing across the port. I.N's voice came through the comm, calm but clipped.

"There's an access point. Building over, northeast side. Camera coverage is light there, you should be able to cross without being seen."

"Copy," Felix murmured, shifting his rifle against his shoulder. He signaled Chan, and the two of them vaulted silently across to the neighboring roof. Gravel crunched under their boots, muted by the low roar of the sea.

They waited until Han's voice crackled softly in their ears. "Easy access point on the south fence. No trip alarms. Looks like clan security got lazy."

"Good," Felix replied. "We'll link with you there. Hold position."

By the time Felix and Chan dropped down from the roof, Han and Seungmin were already waiting in the shadow of a stacked container. The four of them exchanged brief nods, no words, no wasted time, and I.N guided them in, his voice steady as he watched through hacked feeds.

"Two cameras to your left. Timing is ten seconds apart. Move on my mark."

Felix's pulse slowed into mission rhythm, everything else shoved into the farthest corners of his mind. He counted the breaths between I.N's words.

"Go."

They slipped between containers like smoke, pressed tight to corrugated steel walls streaked with rust. Felix could feel the weight of the shadows clinging to them, the metallic scent of oil and damp seeping into his lungs. Every corner was a risk, every open stretch a temptation for eyes above, but I.N's calm voice in their ears steered them true.

The closer they moved to the portside, the heavier the air grew. Shouts echoed faintly, voices carried by the wind. Felix froze, hand raised. He crouched at the corner of a container and peeked out.

Five men. Armed. Unloading rifles and crates from a shipping container into blacked-out SUVs lined neatly at the dock's edge. The glint of steel under the gray light made his stomach tighten.

Chan's hand came up, pointing toward the group. His voice was low but cutting. "Look."

Felix followed his line of sight. His blood turned to ice.

Changbin.

The commander stood at the center of it all, directing the operation with an ease that made Felix's blood run cold. He wasn't lifting crates, wasn't sweating under the weight of rifles. He was orchestrating, eyes cutting sharp, voice steady, presence commanding.

Felix's pulse kicked hard against his ribs. Of all the people they could've stumbled on, it had to be him. Changbin wasn't just another officer; he was dangerous in ways that went beyond muscle and firepower. He noticed things. He remembered things.

And Felix couldn't forget that night at the club, the way Changbin had looked at him and Hyunjin, eyes lingering too long, too sharp. He didn't know how much the commander had seen, how much he'd guessed, but the risk was there. Even the possibility was enough to make Felix's throat dry. If Changbin opened his mouth, if he hinted at what he'd witnessed, it could tear everything apart.

Chan's voice was low but decisive. "That's him. High-ranking. If we take him alive, he could give us intel we can't buy."

Felix forced his grip on the rifle to loosen before it snapped in his hands. "No. I'll deal with Changbin. You focus on the others and secure the shipment."

Chan turned, incredulous. "You? Alone? That's reckless. We need to capture him, not just, "

"I said I'll handle it," Felix cut in, sharper than he meant. His tone brooked no argument, his stare locking onto Chan's until the older man's jaw clenched in frustration. "Weapons and men first. Leave Changbin to me."

For a moment, silence pressed thick between them, the tension a live wire. Chan's lips parted, ready to argue, but Felix's expression didn't waver. It couldn't. If Chan knew why he was really insisting, if anyone suspected how deep this went, it would be the end of him. Finally, Chan clicked his tongue in irritation and looked away.

Felix exhaled slowly, then turned back to the others. His voice dropped, steady, commanding. "Watch each other's backs," he said, eyes sweeping across the team. "Don't take risks you don't have to. I need you walking out of here."

Han and Seungmin nodded sharply. Chan gave the barest incline of his head, still simmering with unspoken protest. They crept closer, hugging the steel shadows of the containers, the air thick with salt and tension. Ahead, Changbin's voice carried faintly over the clatter of crates, calm and commanding.

Chan leaned closer, whispering, "We should capture him. Now. Before he slips."

Felix shut him down again, his voice flat, final. "Stand down. He's mine."

The world snapped into motion with the sharp crack of a rifle.

Gunfire shattered the stillness of the docks, sparks flying as bullets ricocheted off steel containers. The men unloading the shipment scrambled, weapons drawn, shouting orders in the guttural tone of panic.

"Move!" Felix barked, peeling away from the others. "Take the guards. The shipment doesn't leave this yard."

His team exploded into action.

Han darted left, sliding behind a low stack of crates, his rifle barking three quick shots that dropped one man before he could swing his weapon up. Seungmin was already moving on the opposite flank, precise and methodical, each bullet placed with clinical efficiency. His eyes stayed sharp, scanning angles, covering Han's blind side without needing to be told.

Chan charged forward like a storm. He vaulted onto a container, raining fire down on two men scrambling for cover below. His presence drew their focus, forced them back, bought the others room to advance.

I.N's calm voice threaded through their comms from the van. "Three on your right. Two moving to flank. Adjust positions, Chan, cut them off."

The air filled with the deafening roar of automatic fire, the acrid tang of gunpowder mixing with salt air.

Felix didn't stay with them. His eyes were locked on Changbin. The commander hadn't flinched when the shooting started. He'd only stepped back, issuing a sharp command to his men before retreating toward the far side of the yard. It was calculated, measured, someone who'd been through this dance before.

Felix's heart pounded as he slipped into pursuit, keeping low, weaving between containers until he cut Changbin off near the loading bay.

"Going somewhere?" Felix growled, rifle raised.

Changbin turned slowly, a smirk tugging at his lips despite the chaos erupting behind them. His eyes glinted, sharp and knowing. "Felix. I was wondering when you'd stop hiding in the shadows."

Felix's jaw clenched. "Hands up. Now."

Instead, Changbin stepped closer, slow and deliberate, hands loose at his sides. He wasn't reckless, he was baiting. "Funny. You don't sound as steady as usual. Something on your mind?"

Felix tightened his grip on the rifle. "I won't say it again."

Changbin chuckled under his breath, tilting his head. "The studio. The club. The way you looked at him. The way he looked at you. Tell me, Felix, was it worth it?"

The words hit like shrapnel, cutting deep. Felix's blood went cold, but his face didn't move, his mask carved from stone. Still, his finger twitched against the trigger.

The commander's smirk widened, eyes gleaming with cruel satisfaction. "I saw you and Hyunjin kissing at his studio. I know it was you who was with him in Incheon. Dangerous, isn't it? Letting anyone see what you really want."

The words hit Felix like a gut punch. His blood went cold, his breath catching before he forced it back under control. A thousand thoughts slammed through him at once. Studio. Incheon. Moments he thought had been theirs alone, private, fragile pieces of something real. He'd guarded them like treasure, convinced they were hidden in shadows safe from prying eyes.

But Changbin had been there. Watching. Collecting. Waiting.

Felix's grip tightened on his rifle until the metal bit into his gloves. His mask slipped for a fraction of a second, jaw tight, eyes flashing with something dangerously close to panic, before he forced it back into place. He couldn't let Changbin see the crack. He couldn't let him taste that victory.

"Say his name again," Felix growled, voice low and venom-laced, "and I'll drop you where you stand."

Changbin leaned closer into the barrel of Felix's gun, entirely unshaken, lips curling into a taunting grin. "So protective. You're not even asking if I told anyone yet. Maybe the clan already knows. Maybe you've already damned him just by touching him."

Felix's chest burned with rage, every instinct screaming to pull the trigger, but hesitation rooted him to the ground. If Changbin had spoken the truth, killing him wouldn't erase it. And if it was a lie, pulling the trigger would only prove Felix's fear.

Gunfire roared in the distance. Han's voice crackled over comms: "Two down, one fleeing toward the SUVs." Seungmin added: "Crates secured on the west side."

Felix's focus tunneled back to Changbin.

"Here's the thing," Changbin said, lowering his voice so only Felix could hear. "Hyunjin isn't doing well. You should check his studio. If you care half as much as you pretend not to, that's where you'll find him."

Felix's heart lurched. The words ripped through him, sharp enough to steal his breath. His mind spun, was it a trap? A setup to pull him away, to use Hyunjin as bait? Or was it real? Deep down, beneath the fear, he knew the truth. If it was Hyunjin...he'd go. No matter the cost.

The hesitation was fatal. Changbin moved with the precision of someone who had survived too many fights to count. He slipped sideways, shoulder crashing into Felix just hard enough to throw his aim. The shot fired wide, sparking against steel. By the time Felix steadied, the commander was gone, vanishing between containers, his laughter low and sharp as it echoed in the smoke and gunfire.

Felix cursed under his breath, the weight of Changbin's words heavier than the rifle in his hands. Hyunjin. The studio. Trap or not, he knew exactly where he'd be going once the smoke cleared.

Chapter Text

The yard was quiet now. Smoke curled from spent shells littering the gravel, the acrid stench of gunpowder hanging in the air like a warning. Felix stood still for a long moment, rifle lowered, heart still hammering in his chest. Changbin's laughter seemed to echo between the containers, mocking him, even though the man was gone.

"Felix."

He turned. Chan was approaching, his jaw set, expression unreadable. Han and Seungmin emerged from the other side of the yard, both flushed but breathing steady, their weapons still drawn.

"All clear," Seungmin reported.

Felix nodded once. "Secure what we can and load it up. We're done here."

They worked fast, moving the crates they'd managed to recover into the transport van. By the time the last one was stowed, the sun had shifted behind the clouds, the gray light turning almost silver.

"Where's Changbin?" Chan asked finally, his voice clipped.

Felix's back went rigid. "He got away."

The silence that followed was thick enough to choke on.

"You let him get away," Chan said flatly.

Felix turned, his expression hard. "I didn't let him. He slipped."

Chan stepped closer, anger flashing in his eyes. "You said you'd handle it. That's why we didn't take him down when we had the chance. And now we're leaving with half a shipment and no intel."

Felix felt the heat rise under his collar, his grip on his rifle tightening. "We did what we came to do. We kept the weapons out of circulation."

"That wasn't the only objective and you know it," Chan shot back.

Before Felix could retort, Han stepped between them, one hand pressed against Chan's chest, the other gripping Felix's arm. "Enough," Han said sharply. "We just survived a firefight in broad daylight. You two can kill each other after we get off-site."

Felix forced a breath through his nose and turned away, jaw tight. Chan glared at his back for a moment before stalking off to the van.

Han's hand squeezed Felix's shoulder, not unkindly. "He's not wrong, you know. Losing Changbin could cost us."

Felix said nothing. He couldn't. Because the truth was gnawing at him from the inside out, louder than Chan's anger or Han's caution. Hyunjin isn't doing well. Check his studio. The words stuck like barbs in his chest.

He kept silent through the ride back, staring out the window as the city blurred past. Every bump in the road seemed to rattle the thought loose, make it louder. By the time they reached the compound, his mind was no longer on the weapons or the mission. It was on Hyunjin.

The compound was quieter than usual when they returned. The hum of fluorescent lights overhead and the faint clatter of boots down distant hallways felt louder than normal, almost intrusive.

Felix stayed silent as they cataloged and stored the recovered weapons, letting the others speak in short, clipped updates. Every minute that ticked by was another minute that Changbin's words twisted deeper into his mind like a knife.

When the last crate was logged, Felix dismissed the others. Seungmin left first, tugging off his gloves, Han trailing behind him with a look that said he wanted to stay but knew better. I.N slipped his headset off, rubbing at the back of his neck, muttering something about needing caffeine before disappearing down the hall.

Felix waited until the noise of their footsteps faded. Then he moved. He kept his head down as he walked the length of the corridor, timing his steps so they matched the rhythm of the far-off hum of the ventilation system. His boots made barely a sound. He cut through the storage wing instead of the main hall, avoiding the common area where someone might stop him.

His heart was pounding harder now than it had been at the docks. At the garage door, he paused, scanning the camera mounted near the ceiling. I.N had likely shut off most internal recordings after the mission, but Felix knew better than to assume there weren't backups. He shifted to the far edge of the frame and waited until the rotation of the lens passed before slipping through the door.

The keys to his bike were in his jacket pocket. One twist and he could be halfway to Hyunjin's studio before anyone even realized he was gone. But before he could take a step, a voice cut through the garage.

"Going somewhere?"

Felix froze. Chan stood near the entrance, arms crossed, his expression unreadable but heavy enough to pin Felix in place.
Felix turned slowly, forcing his face neutral. "Just clearing my head."

"By leaving?" Chan's voice was calm, too calm, and somehow that was worse. He stepped closer, each bootfall deliberate. "You've been acting off for days, Lix. Distracted. Today you let Changbin get away, and now you're sneaking out of the compound without telling anyone."

Felix's jaw tightened. "I said I was clearing my head."

"That's not an answer," Chan shot back, closing the distance between them until there was only a few feet left. His eyes searched Felix's face, not aggressively but with an intensity that made Felix want to look away.

The silence stretched, thick and charged.

Felix came up with the first excuse that crossed his mind. "I need air. Space. If I stay cooped up in here, I'm going to lose it."

Chan's brows drew together, the anger in his face softening into something else, something dangerous. Concern. "Lix," he said after a long moment, his voice dropping. "I'm not trying to control you. I just... " He let out a deep breath, rubbing a hand over his face. "I'm worried about you. You haven't been yourself."

Felix swallowed hard, the words catching somewhere behind his ribs. He couldn't tell him. Couldn't tell anyone. "I just need to be alone," Felix said finally, his tone flat but not unkind.

Chan stared at him for another beat, then nodded slowly, reluctantly. "Fine. But don't shut us out completely. We've got your back, whether you tell us what's going on or not."

Felix gave a short nod, not trusting himself to say more.
When Chan finally stepped aside, Felix didn't hesitate. He mounted his bike, started the engine, and drove out of the garage before the older man could change his mind.

The compound shrank in his mirrors, swallowed by the cloudy horizon. Felix's knuckles were white against the handlebars, his heart thundering in his chest.

By the time he reached the edge of the city, the clouds had thickened, casting everything in a muted gray haze. The closer he got to Hyunjin's studio, the heavier the air seemed to feel, every turn of the wheel pulling something tight inside his chest.

When he finally pulled up outside the studio, the engine idled low, vibrating under him. Felix just sat there for a moment, helmet still on, staring at the familiar entrance. The place looked quiet, almost too quiet. His pulse hammered in his throat. Trap or not, Changbin's words were still ringing in his ears. Hyunjin. The studio.

Felix killed the engine, the silence of the street pressing in around him. He swung a leg off the bike and stood there for a long moment, staring at the door, willing himself to move. One step. Then another. Whatever waited for him inside, he would face it.

Chapter Text

The night pressed heavy around him as Felix stood outside the studio door. The clouds hung low overhead, turning the street into a washed-out canvas of gray and shadow. His fingers hovered over the handle, his pulse thundering loud enough to drown out the world.

What am I even going to find in there?

He pushed the thought aside and twisted the knob. The door gave easily under his hand. Unlocked.

The smell hit him first, sharp and metallic, the scent of turpentine and paint mixing with something bitter, stale alcohol maybe.

Then his eyes adjusted. The studio was chaos.

Every canvas was destroyed, slashed down the middle or hurled across the room so violently they had snapped their frames. Paint streaked the floor like someone had poured it by the bucket and let it bleed. A half-finished sculpture lay in shards near the far wall, and brushes were scattered like fallen soldiers across the floor.

Felix's breath caught in his throat. He stepped inside, careful not to crush the artwork under his boots, but every step sounded too loud.

"Hyunjin," he called softly, his voice almost swallowed by the empty space.

Silence. His chest tightened. Why isn't he answering?

"Hyunjin," he tried again, louder this time.

Nothing. Fear coiled sharp in his gut. His mind immediately went dark, images of Hyunjin hurt, of blood, of the worst-case scenarios flashing like a reel he couldn't stop.

He moved deeper inside, weaving through the wreckage, until his eyes caught movement on the floor near the far corner.

"Hyunjin," Felix breathed and rushed forward, heart hammering.

The older was slumped against the wall, legs sprawled out, head tipped back, lips parted.

Felix dropped to his knees beside him, hands already moving, scanning for injuries. No blood. No visible wounds. His chest rose and fell in slow, uneven breaths.

Felix shook him gently. "Hyunjin. Hey. Wake up."

A groan. Mumbled words he couldn't catch.

Relief flooded Felix so hard it almost made him dizzy. He slumped back on his heels, letting out a shaky exhale. Drunk. Just drunk.

"God, Jinnie..." he whispered, brushing a strand of hair back from Hyunjin's face.

His eyes flicked around the room again. The empty bottles tipped over near the corner told him enough.

Felix found the older's car keys on the paint-smeared table near the door. Getting Hyunjin up was another battle entirely, he was heavy and uncooperative, muttering softly as Felix hauled him to his feet and half-carried, half-dragged him out to the car.

By the time he got Hyunjin into the passenger seat, Felix was sweating, his muscles straining.

I'll come grab my bike tomorrow, he thought grimly as he slid behind the wheel and started the engine.

He pulled out his phone with one hand and quickly searched for hotels nearby. Somewhere quiet, somewhere low-profile where no one would question why he was carrying a barely-conscious man inside. He booked the first room that matched and drove in tense silence, glancing over at Hyunjin every few seconds to make sure he was still breathing evenly.

When they arrived, Felix parked close to the entrance and maneuvered Hyunjin out of the car with more patience than strength. The older stirred only once, mumbling something incoherent before going slack again.

The clerk at the desk didn't ask questions when Felix gave him a curt smile and slid his card across the counter. Within minutes, he had the key.

He got Hyunjin inside without issue, somehow managing to unlock the door while balancing the older's weight against his side. He laid him down on the bed, carefully tugged off his shoes and paint-streaked clothes, leaving him in just a soft shirt and boxers.

Hyunjin shifted but didn't wake, his breathing steady but shallow.

Felix knelt beside the bed, his knees digging into the cheap carpet. For a long moment, he just watched him, his chest aching with something he couldn't name.

He brushed a hand lightly over Hyunjin's hair, smoothing it back from his face. The older looked so different like this, small, vulnerable, stripped of all the walls he kept so carefully built.

What am I supposed to do with you?

Felix stayed like that for what felt like hours, just watching the rise and fall of Hyunjin's chest, debating what he would say when the older finally woke up.

Would Hyunjin walk away from him again? Pretend none of this mattered? Or would this finally be the moment when he let Felix in?

Felix swallowed hard, his thumb brushing over the back of Hyunjin's hand.

Whatever happened next, he knew one thing: he wasn't leaving. Not tonight.

Felix stayed kneeling by the bed for a while, his hand still resting near Hyunjin's. The sound of his breathing, slow and even, filled the room. It was strangely grounding, but also unsettling, like Felix was holding his breath, waiting for the older to shatter all over again the moment he woke up.

His phone buzzed in his pocket, making him flinch.

It was Chan.

Chan: Where are you?

Felix stared at the message for a long moment, thumb hovering over the keyboard. What am I supposed to tell him?

The truth wasn't an option. Not when the memory of their confrontation at the garage still burned hot between them. Not when Chan would have a thousand questions about why Felix was here.

He typed back quickly:

Felix: Out clearing my head still. I'll see you in tomorrow.

Chan wouldn't believe it completely, Felix knew that, but it would buy him time.

No reply came. The screen stayed dark.

Felix lingered by the bed, hand still brushing lightly over Hyunjin's hair. Every instinct in him screamed not to leave. What if the older woke up confused? What if he panicked? What if he walked out and disappeared before I could even explain why I'm here?

But the mess in the studio, the empty bottles, the exhausted slump of Hyunjin's body, it all told Felix that tomorrow morning was going to be rough. He needed to do something, anything, to make it easier.

With a reluctant sigh, Felix stood and grabbed his jacket, glancing back one more time before heading for the door. His stomach knotted as he eased it shut behind him, like he was leaving something fragile and precious that might shatter if he stayed gone too long.

The convenience store was a few blocks away, bright under harsh fluorescent lights. Felix grabbed a bottle of water, some sports drinks, painkillers, a couple of protein bars, and a pack of wet wipes. Things Hyunjin might need in the morning, things that might make waking up in a strange hotel room slightly less miserable.

By the time he returned, the room was still quiet. Felix set the small haul on the table near the bed, to where Hyunjin would see it first thing.

He didn't bother changing out of his clothes, just sank into the loveseat in the corner, elbows braced on his knees. The room smelled faintly of paint and alcohol, a reminder of what he'd found tonight, of how close Hyunjin seemed to the edge.

Felix's gaze never left the bed. He sat there in silence, watching the slow rise and fall of Hyunjin's chest, waiting for morning to come.

Chapter Text

The morning light crept in thin golden streaks through the gap in the hotel room curtains, brushing across Hyunjin's face until he stirred. A low groan slipped from his throat as he buried his eyes against the crook of his arm. His head throbbed, an angry, pulsing reminder of too much alcohol and too little sleep.

Where...? He blinked blearily and froze. This wasn't his studio. The surface beneath him was soft, the sheets smooth, the air faintly cool with the scent of unfamiliar detergent. His fingers tightened around the blanket, confusion flickering in his fogged thoughts.

Wasn't I at the studio? he asked himself, trying to thread his memories together, but they slipped like water through his fingers.

He pushed himself upright and winced when a sharp jolt of pain spiked behind his eyes. The room swam for a heartbeat before steadying. That's when he saw him.

Felix was slumped in a chair a few feet away, still in yesterday's clothes, chin resting on his chest, his breaths slow and even in sleep.

Hyunjin stared, frozen in place. Felix?

His pulse quickened. A dozen questions tumbled through his mind in a rush. What is he doing here? Where am I? How did I get here? Did I... call him? He searched for scraps of memory, bottles, the wreckage of paint in the studio, the hollow ache in his chest. Nothing after that.

He glanced around the room again, neutral walls, a curtained window, a dresser with a small TV bolted above it, definitely a hotel. His confusion deepened.

A faint clink drew his attention to the nightstand. A bottle of water and a packet of painkillers rested neatly there as if someone had anticipated his morning misery. Hesitating only a second, Hyunjin reached out and unscrewed the bottle, taking a long swallow. The water was cool, blessedly so, and he couldn't suppress the low moan of relief as it soothed the desert of his throat.

His eyes shifted back to Felix. The younger hadn't stirred, the morning light outlining the curve of his jaw, freckles softened by sleep. The sight made something strange twist in Hyunjin's chest, part unease, part something warmer he didn't want to name.

Cradling the bottle loosely in his hands, Hyunjin sat there in silence, watching him, waiting for the moment Felix's lashes would flutter open. He had questions waiting on the tip of his tongue, but for now, he stayed still, trying to piece together how last night had ended with him here, and why Felix had been the one to stay.

Hyunjin shifted against the headboard, careful not to let the mattress creak. The pills sat half-dissolved in his palm as he rubbed his temples, trying to push through the fog in his mind. The light through the curtains was soft but still too bright, cutting across the room in narrow bands that caught the dust in the air.

The water bottle, now half-empty, rested on his knee. He stared at it without really seeing it, thoughts scattering like loose pages in a storm.

The memory of last night was a fractured slideshow, the paint-stained floor of the studio, the sting of alcohol on his tongue, the blur of canvases he'd thrown until his arms ached. After that, there was nothing. A blank space where the hours should be.

His eyes drifted back to Felix. The younger's head had tilted slightly to the side in sleep, his mouth relaxed, his lashes casting faint shadows on his cheeks. That same steadiness was there even in rest, a kind of quiet resolve that made Hyunjin's chest tighten.

Why is he here? He didn't remember calling him. Didn't remember even thinking of him while he'd been drowning the night away. And yet Felix had been the one to find him, that much was clear. Hyunjin's gaze dropped to the water and the painkillers again, small gestures that told him Felix had anticipated his miserable morning.

A pang of guilt twisted in his stomach. How much did he see? He let his eyes wander across the room. The neatly folded jacket draped over the chair arm. A plastic convenience-store bag tucked by the wall; he couldn't see what was inside, but the sight of it sent another ripple of warmth and unease through him.

The thought of Felix watching him like this, broken, drunk, sprawled on the floor of his ruined studio, felt...unbearable. He dragged a hand down his face, wincing at the throbbing in his skull. I didn't want him to see me like that... no one was supposed to.

But somewhere beneath the embarrassment, beneath the exhaustion, was a quieter realization: if Felix hadn't shown up, he wasn't sure how the night would have ended. That thought alone was enough to make him feel suddenly, acutely vulnerable.

He tilted his head back against the headboard, closing his eyes for a moment, listening to the soft hum of the air conditioner and Felix's slow breathing. The weight of the silence between them pressed on him, not uncomfortable, but heavy with everything unsaid.

Hyunjin opened his eyes again and found himself still watching Felix, as if the younger might vanish if he looked away. A part of him almost wished Felix would wake up first, just to end the waiting. Another part hoped he'd stay asleep a little longer so Hyunjin could pull himself together before facing the questions in Felix's eyes.

The quiet stretched until Hyunjin's nerves began to fray. The ticking of the cheap hotel clock on the wall felt too loud. He shifted again, pulling the blanket a little higher over his lap as if that could shield him from the memory of the night before.

A low sound broke the silence, a soft sigh. Felix shifted in the chair, his head turning slightly against the backrest, a crease forming between his brows as he stirred.

Hyunjin froze.

Felix blinked awake slowly, squinting at the pale sunlight slicing through the curtains. It took a second for his eyes to focus, to find Hyunjin sitting up on the bed, watching him.

Their gazes locked. The air in the room tightened like a drawn bowstring.

Hyunjin's first instinct was to look away, anywhere but into those steady brown eyes. But he couldn't. Instead, his fingers curled into the sheets, gripping the fabric until his knuckles whitened.

Felix straightened a little in the chair, running a palm over his face. His voice came out low, rough from sleep. "You're awake."

"Yeah," Hyunjin replied, his own voice softer than he intended. He cleared his throat and shifted his eyes to the window, away from the younger. "Apparently..."

A small, wry smile tugged at the corner of Felix's mouth, but it didn't quite reach his eyes. "How's the head?"

Hyunjin hesitated, then admitted, "Feels like someone took a hammer to it." He gestured vaguely to the glass of water on the nightstand. "Thanks...for that."

Felix nodded once, his expression unreadable, and for a moment neither of them said anything. The silence wasn't companionable; it was charged, heavy with things that neither seemed ready to voice.

Hyunjin finally shifted again, pulling the blanket higher around his shoulders. The weight of Felix's presence pressed at him, not unkindly, but almost unbearable. He couldn't stop thinking about the wreck he'd been last night , the wreck Felix had walked in on. The ruined canvases, the reek of alcohol, the way he'd passed out cold on the studio floor.

Heat crept up his neck at the memory. He saw all of it. He carried me out of there like dead weight...

He risked a glance at Felix, still seated a few feet away. The younger's posture was calm, steady, as if he'd been carved out of patience itself. That somehow made it worse. If Felix had looked annoyed or judgmental, maybe Hyunjin could have built a wall of anger to protect himself. But there was no anger there, only a quiet watchfulness , and that made the shame settle heavier in his chest.

"I... uh... " Hyunjin started, then stopped, the words tangling before they could form. What could he possibly say? Sorry you had to find me like that? Sorry you saw me broken?

Felix's eyes softened slightly, noticing the way Hyunjin fidgeted with the edge of the blanket. "You don't have to say anything right now," he said quietly, as if reading the older's mind.

Hyunjin pressed his lips together, biting back the dozen things he wasn't sure how to express. The gratitude. The mortification. The fear of what Felix must be thinking of him now.

The awkwardness settled over them like a second blanket, warm and suffocating. Hyunjin shifted again, letting his head fall back against the headboard and exhaling slowly, hoping the next words wouldn't sound as raw as he felt.

Chapter Text

The silence stretched thin between them. The air felt too still, the faint hum of the air conditioner the only sound cutting through the weight of unspoken words.

Felix was the first to move. He stood slowly, rubbing the back of his neck as if to shake the stiffness from sleeping upright all night. "You should eat something," he said, voice steady but cautious. "I can run downstairs, grab some breakfast..."

"Wait." Hyunjin's voice came out sharper than he intended. Felix stopped mid-step, glancing over his shoulder.

Hyunjin's hand had tightened around the blanket in his lap. "How did you find me?" he asked quietly. His gaze didn't leave Felix's back. "How did you even know where I was?"

Felix turned, hesitating. The question hung between them, heavier than either wanted to touch. His jaw worked once before he exhaled and crossed his arms loosely over his chest. "You really want to know?"

Hyunjin nodded. His heartbeat picked up, though he didn't understand why. Maybe he already knew it wouldn't be good.

Felix's voice came slower this time, measured. "My team intercepted Changbin last night. He and a few of his men were unloading weapons at the docks." His eyes flicked briefly to Hyunjin's face, gauging his reaction. "He's the one who told me."

Hyunjin froze. It felt like the air had been sucked out of the room. His fingers went cold, the blanket slipping slightly from his grasp. The weapons. He'd completely forgotten about them, the shipment, the arrangements, the responsibility he'd so easily drowned in alcohol. For a moment, neither spoke. The silence pulsed, thick with realization.

"Did you..." Hyunjin swallowed hard, his voice barely above a whisper. "Did you capture Changbin?"

Felix's expression tightened, the faintest shadow crossing his face. He shook his head once. "No. He got away." Felix hesitated to ask, "why would he tell me where to find you?"

"I-I don't know," he stammered, the lie brittle even as he said it. "He shouldn't know anything."

Felix's expression darkened. "Are you sure about that?" he asked, his voice weary, edged with something that sounded like betrayal.

Hyunjin hesitated. Because no, he wasn't sure. His mind flickered back to the motel, to Changbin showing up unannounced that morning. The questions. The tone. The quiet warning he hadn't taken seriously. How long had he been following me? The thought made his stomach twist. Did he see us together?

If Changbin knew, there was a chance Lee Know did too. And that explained the cold calculation in Lee Know's voice yesterday. The subtle tension in his eyes. Panic prickled up Hyunjin's spine, cold and creeping. If Lee Know knew, then Felix was already in danger just by being here, by caring. His pulse raced.

He looked up at Felix, bewildered, fear flickering behind his eyes. "Felix," he said, his voice barely holding steady. "You shouldn't have come."

Felix's eyes hardened, the warmth from earlier slipping away like a tide retreating from shore. "Shouldn't have come?" he repeated, voice low, disbelieving. "You were passed out in a wrecked studio, Hyunjin. Paint everywhere, broken glass, empty bottles...you could've been dead."

"That's not..." Hyunjin started, but Felix cut him off.

"No, you don't get to do that," Felix snapped, his voice sharper than he intended. "You don't get to vanish, destroy yourself, and then tell me I shouldn't have come."

The words hit hard, echoing between them. Hyunjin flinched, guilt twisting through his gut.

Felix took a step closer, his shoulders tense, his hands flexing at his sides like he needed to hold something still, maybe himself. "You think I was just going to sit there and pretend I didn't know? Pretend I didn't care?"

Hyunjin's voice came out quieter this time, almost pleading. "It's not about that. You being here, it makes things worse. You don't understand the danger you're in..."

"I think I understand more than you give me credit for," Felix shot back. His tone softened slightly, but the edge didn't fade. "Changbin didn't just tell me where to find you. He wanted me to see. He wanted to prove something."

Hyunjin's pulse thundered in his ears. "Prove what?"

"That you're breaking," Felix said flatly. "That whatever you're tied to it's eating you alive."

Hyunjin's chest tightened. His mouth opened, then closed. There was no right answer. No lie that wouldn't crumble the moment Felix looked at him like that, eyes steady, unreadable, but burning underneath.

"You think I don't see it?" Felix continued, quieter now, but every word landed heavy. "You think I didn't notice how scared you looked when I said Changbin's name?"

"Stop," Hyunjin whispered, his composure slipping.

Felix didn't. "He knows about us, doesn't he?"

Hyunjin froze.

"That's why you panicked," Felix said, stepping closer still. "That's why you told me I shouldn't have come. Because if they find out..."

"Stop!" Hyunjin's voice cracked. He pushed himself out of bed too fast, the movement making his head spin, but the panic overrode the pain. "You don't understand, Felix. You can't be here. If they even suspect..."

"Then explain it to me!" Felix's voice broke through the air like thunder. "Because right now I'm standing here trying to figure out why the hell the man I..." He caught himself, jaw locking hard. "...the man I care about is acting like being near him is a death sentence."

Hyunjin's breath hitched. The silence that followed was suffocating.

He looked at Felix, the exhaustion shadowing his eyes, the bruises beneath them, the same worry he'd seen on his face that night before everything fell apart.

Hyunjin's voice dropped to a whisper. "Because it is."

Felix exhaled slowly, dragging a hand through his hair as if grounding himself. After a beat, he moved closer, sitting on the edge of the bed, not too near, but close enough that Hyunjin could feel the weight of his presence.

"Are we going to talk about it?" Felix asked quietly. His tone wasn't harsh, but it carried something heavier, disappointment, concern, maybe both. "About why I found you passed out on the floor of your studio?"

Hyunjin's stomach twisted. He stared down at his hands, fingers knotting in the blanket. The question shouldn't have stung, but it did. The gentleness in Felix's voice only made it worse. He wished Felix would just yell instead of looking at him like that, like he was someone who mattered.

"I don't..." Hyunjin started, then stopped, the words drying up in his throat. What excuse could I give that Felix would believe? That it was stress? Exhaustion? A bad night? None of them would explain the wreckage Felix must have seen. None of them would make him stop worrying.

Hyunjin's mind raced, tangled in a storm of half-formed thoughts. Do I tell him the truth? he asked himself. Or do I make up some lie he'll see right through?

The truth could destroy them both. The lie would only delay it. Neither felt like mercy.

He looked up at Felix, and the words he'd been shaping fell away before they even reached his tongue. Felix sat there, steady and still, waiting. The soft light from the window caught the faint dusting of freckles across his cheeks, the calm brown of his eyes that always seemed to see too much.

Hyunjin's heart hammered against his ribs, drowning out the pulse of fear that clawed at his throat. It shouldn't have been this hard to breathe, but it was.

Felix didn't move. Didn't speak. He simply watched him with that same quiet patience, the kind that both comforted and terrified Hyunjin because it meant he cared. It meant he wasn't leaving.

Hyunjin wanted to speak, to give him something, a piece of the truth, maybe, but the words wouldn't come. His fingers tightened in the sheets instead, knuckles white, and he looked away, afraid that if he held Felix's gaze any longer, everything would come undone.

Felix exhaled softly, the sound barely audible. He didn't press.

He just stayed there, the silence between them stretching out, heavy but unbroken.