Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

His lungs felt like they were burning but he couldn't stop. 

And he wouldn't stop even if he wanted. 

He knew better. He never should've left him alone. He had said time and time again that he was scared to be felt alone. That something felt wrong and he should have listened. He had promised his dear husband that he would be fine. It was naive of him to ever think so. He told him he was just going out for a few hours and that he would be back in no time. He had looked his husband in the face and told him he would be alright at home. All alone.

He was a fool.

He rushed towards their home and froze when he saw the door was already slightly ajar. He pushed it open with his heart beating rapidly in his ribcage. As soon as he stepped into his home he noticed all the lights were off, meaning he had to blindly navigate his way through the eerily quiet and still hallway. It was weird how he couldn't hear anything throughout. "Seonghwa!" He called for his spouse but got nothing in response. 

He walked half-blind all through until he reached their living room which was dimly lit by only the lamp in the corner, the rest of the light was coming from the big glass doors that filtered the moonlight's rays into the dark room. But even with the sparse light coming through, there was no way he couldn't make out his husband's slumped figure on the ground. He inwardly sighed in relief that at least he was here but that brought up another question. Why was he on the ground? "Fuck, Seonghwa. Are you alright?" He tried to get closer.

Hongjoong edged closer to him but suddenly, the ground felt weird under his feet and he almost slipped on the wooden floors. It felt slimy and slippery to walk on especially since he didn't have his indoor slippers as he was in a hurry to get to the other. He found it very odd... He glanced down and his heart dropped to his stomach as it violently churned. The stark contrast of the liquid on his feet. His eyes slowly lifted from the wet ground and their eyes met at that moment and finally, that was when his sight adjusted to the dark of the room. 

There, in the dead of night sat his husband, tears running down his face as blood stained his hands, his face, the front of his shirt and sweatpants. He looked at the lifeless body next to his sodding husband and their kitchen knife close by. The person was lying on the ground, probably long dead if the large pool of blood in their living room was anything to go by. He stood frozen in place as reality sunk in for him.

There was a dead body in their home.

"Fuck!" 

=======================================

~Coming soon!~

1st October, 2024!!

This will be a Halloween special. 

⚠️Content warning.⚠️

-Blood

-Gore

-Murder

-smut

-Threats

-stalking

-Kidnapping

-Dismembering

-nonconsensual voyeurism

-nonconsensual elements/ rape

-talks about the abuse of animals. (Sorry) 

-vivid descriptions of body gore

-Mental diseases.

-Fluff but for like 1 sec.

-And then just plain crazy!

Anyway, hope you like it. 

I might add warnings as we go on. If you know this is not for you that's alright. Take care of yourself and read something else. But as for the rest of you, stay tuned for the first chapter!

🍒

Chapter Text

How would you describe a murderer?

Do they have to look a certain way, or do they have to have a long track record of wrongdoings to show that they were no good from the beginning?

For Detective Jeong Yunho, it was neither. 

He had been doing this job for a long time. Long enough to have come across so many different kinds of criminals who fit neither profile. He had seen people who killed their spouses for petty reasons, children who killed their parents simply because they could, and parents who had mercilessly ended their very flesh and blood all in cold blood. 

He had seen all kinds of evil. Both young and old. All forms of gender and likes of races. Some seemed like they had justifiable reasons, and some were just done by plain evil. He had seen all kinds. Nothing surprised him anymore. This was his life as a detective. 

You could never judge a book by its cover.

But now he was staring at the two files on his desk. There was nothing remarkable about the couple. If anything, they seemed too perfect, yet he couldn't help but feel like they were hiding something. Something dark and sinister. "So what do you have there?" 

He snapped out of his head and looked at his partner. "Nothing much." He said as he closed the flies.

His partner, Mingi, shook his head, already knowing who it was he was looking at. "I think you should just let it go. You have been obsessed with this case for months now." 

Yunho sighed and stood up. "If I still don't find anything this time. I will give up." He lightly tapped on his shoulder and walked away. Mingi was right. He felt like he was too occupied with the couple and nothing else, but he couldn't help it. It wasn't his fault that his gut kept telling him there was more to the story than they let on. Or maybe he was just looking for something that was never there before...

♡♡♡

A year earlier

This was going to be their fresh start. 

It hadn't been their plan, but this would do. He glanced over at his husband, who had his face out the car window with a content smile on his face, letting the wind blow in his face as they drove. It felt nice to see him relaxed and at ease. It had been too long since he last saw him this at peace and not in a constant state of anxiety.

He did feel bad about the whole moving away thing since they were leaving behind some good friends they had made in that city. But they had to leave. It was better that way. They were leaving all their friends and the life they once knew behind, but at least they were moving closer to their family. Most of their family lived on the outskirts of Seoul, considering that that was where they originally came from. They had only moved because of the jobs.

He slowly pulled up at their new house. It was nothing too extravagant but it was extremely nice for a house in the city. The last place they lived in was in an apartment complex, so this was an upgrade for them for sure. The both of them got out of the car. "Wow, the garden is a lot bigger than I thought it was." 

"So you like it?" He asked, walking over to where his husband was bending over to see the little flower beds. 

"Of course. Although it might need some more attention. But I already like it." He smiled up at him. 

That relieved him so much and comforted him too. He just wanted him to be back to his normal self and forget the past. "Then I'm glad. How about we go inside first? I think the movers are about to arrive." He offered his hand so that he could help him up.

Seonghwa gratefully took it and followed him to the car to pick up the small boxes they had packed at the last minute before they left. They slowly approached the house, and Hongjoong grabbed the new house keys from his pocket. 

The older however unconsciously breathed in as he watched the door be opened. Hongjoong stood waiting for him to follow in but he didn't make an effort to move just yet. Hongjoong must have noticed how he just stood there apprehensive. "Hey, it's alright." He slowly said. "One step at a time, remember." He gently reminded.

Seonghwa nodded his head and hesitantly crossed the threshold into their new home. It was his first time in it since only Hongjoong had been the one who had seen it before they bought it, but it was beautiful. With the wooden floors for the floor layout, the big glass doors that overlooked the garden, a large living space and an even bigger kitchen, not to mention the sunroom there. It seemed too big for just two people.

"So? What do you think?" He heard him ask from behind him.

"It's beautiful." He gasped as he ran his hand over the large white and pristine marble countertops. He turned to look at him with a big smile. "Perfect, even. Are you sure this is ours?" He teased.

Hongjoong laughed and nodded as he walked over to him. He gently pulled him into a hug. "That's exactly what I wanted to hear you say."

He relaxed in his hold and hugged him back. "Will be fine, right?" He asked.

Hongjoong pulled away to look at him lovingly. "Of course. This is our new start." He placed a quick peck on his cheek and he just giggled. 

The sound of a car horn sounded in the distance and Seonghwa peered over Hongjoong's shoulder, noticing that the moving trucks were finally there. "Seems like the trucks are here." He softly laughed. 

"Yep, they are." He followed his gaze. "So how about we start this new chapter?" He smiled. 

Seonghwa nodded with a smile of his own, letting his husband pull him towards the trucks to collect their stuff. 

===

Adjusting to the new home proved to be a challenge for Seonghwa. Hongjoong knew that it was never going to be easy for him in the first place, but it was still hard to see him struggle a bit. It was the third night in their new home, and Hongjoong just watched his husband walking around the house with a bitter smile. He hated that he still unconsciously did it, but if it made him feel safer, then he would let him even if he knew the real reason for his behaviour. 

He watched as the other went from room to room, checking the windows and glass doors. Double, no triple-checking to make sure no one got in. It was just his way of coping, after all. But Hongjoong had faith. He knew it might take time, but he would heal eventually. He just needed to be patient and wait. "Are you done, love?" He softly asked when he noticed him finally slow down and visibly relax.

He inhaled heavily. "Yeah, I guess." He slowly said.

He got off the couch and met him halfway. "So, you're ready for bed?" 

He seemed hesitant. "I-" 

"You need to rest. We have been unpacking for two days straight, and not to mention, your parents are coming over tomorrow. I know you are excited to finally see them after so long." He slowly rubbed his arms. "So let's go to bed."

He sighed. "I guess you're right." 

Hongjoong took his hand and slowly led him upstairs to their room. He helped him into bed and slipped into his side. As soon as he was in too, Seonghwa moved closer to him and wrapped his arms over his body, his head in his chest. He placed a kiss on the crown of his head and ran his hands through his long black hair. He had grown it considerably longer now since he had always wanted to do so but never thought it would suit him, but it fit him so well, and Hongjoong loved to tell him that. "I'm sorry," Seonghwa mumbled in his chest.

"For?" He continued running his hands through his hair absentmindedly.

"I know you have been patient with me and hope that I get better soon, but it just seems I can't." He quietly said, his voice sounding guilty and sad. 

He sighed. It broke him to think he was feeling so guilty for something out of his control. "Hwa, we have talked about this. You just need to focus on yourself and get better. You don't have to worry about me. I'm just content being with you and know I will be with you the whole way through." 

"But -"

"I love you so much, Seonghwa that I don't care how long it takes. I will continue to wait until you are better." He said into his hair.

Hongjoong could feel the way his arms tightened around his waist, and he smiled. "I love you too." He whispered.

"I know." 

◇◇◇

Seonghwa hated it. 

The pity and empathy in their eyes as they looked at him. He hated that it was all directed towards him. He might have experienced something traumatic that has now scared him for life, but he didn't want to be pitied. 

It made him feel like it was his fault what happened, and he knew it was unreasonable, but his mind didn't think so. He loved his parents, which was a sure thing, but he didn't want to be treated like a victim. He had already had enough of that. 

He felt a hand firmly squeeze his thigh, and he looked at his husband next to him and calmed down slightly. The younger must have noticed his sour mood and was trying to comfort him. 

He took a deep breath in. At least, Hongjoong had never looked at him like his parents were doing right now. He still looked at him the same, and that was all he wanted. To be normal again despite all that happened.

"Seonghwa, are you alright?" He heard his mom call out to him, worry laced on her features.

He smiled as best as he could, having not expected her question. "Yeah, I just spaced out, that's all." 

Again, that look came on her face. "Oh... alright, sweetie." 

"Hopefully, the drive here wasn't that bad." Luckily for him, Hongjoong spoke up first and distracted them away from him. 

"Oh no! It was a lot easier to get here. It took us only 40 minutes." She happily said but turned to her son again. "I nearly forgot, Seonghwa, your aunt was been asking if you could come to visit her soon. She said she would love to meet Hongjoong, too." 

Seonghwa hesitated. "I don't know, mom. I don't want-" 

"But it's your aunt, Hwa." She seemed disappointed by his answer since she cut him off as soon as she could. "Surely you can't be thinking of turning her down."

"It's not that I'm turning her down. I just don't think I can right now." He tried to explain without going into the details. He just wasn't ready for that.

"And why is that?" She looked at him. 

He clenched his fists under the table. Did he need a reason for why he didn't want to? Why was it that he couldn't simply refuse something? "Do I need a reason for saying no?!" He suddenly yelled at her.

The room went quiet with both his parents looking stunned at him. Never in the 26 years that they had raised him had he yelled at them. It was the first time that this had happened, and it showed by how shocked his mother was while his father looked at him in a wide-eyed stupor. 

"Seonghwa-"

"I think what Seonghwa was trying to say was that we are still adjusting to the city and need some time." Hongjoong cut in before any more misunderstandings could happen. 

A lump formed in the back of his throat as tears stung his eyes. He stood up abruptly and ran for their bedroom. Not once did he stop, even when he heard his parents desperately calling for him. 

He hated it. 

He just wished that things were different...

-

It was maybe a few minutes later that Hongjoong came and knocked on their door. He wetly sniffled and weakly mumbled for him to come in. He could hear his soft steps edge closer to him until they stopped right in front of him as he looked at him with a sad smile. "Did my parents leave?" He wetly asked.

He nodded. "Yeah, I told them that you would call them later."

Tears fell from his face. They had been so excited to see him but he just had to go and ruin things. "I yelled at them." He mumbled. 

"I know." He simply said. 

A sob escaped his lips, and he held the blanket closer to his body. It felt like it was the only thing grounding him at the moment. "I didn't mean to. Do you think they know that?" 

"I'm pretty sure they know." He tried to comfort him.

"I...I don't know why I suddenly yelled." He sobbed.

"It's alright...You were just feeling a lot of things at that moment, and it sort of exploded in your face." He softly explained.

"But that's the thing. I don't want to feel like I might explode at any given moment. I just want to be me again..." He cried harder to the point it seemed like he was close to hyperventilating.

Hongjoong immediately wrapped his arms around his shaking body. "Shhh...I got you. You'll be fine." He ran a gentle hand through his hair.

Seonghwa clung to him and continued sodding. He was tired. He was tired of being overly sensitive and unpredictable. But most of all, he was tired that no matter how long, the memories of what happened still ran rampant in his mind. Torturing him day and night and making him so exhausted that all that was left of him was a shell of his former self.

■■■

It was one of those nights, it would seem. The kind where the night never seemed to end. Three weeks had passed since they moved and they had fit in perfectly with the community. It was nice to know their neighbours weren't mean or anything like that and Hongjoong appreciated that. Everything should have been fine, at least by now or closer to it. He hated to admit it, but Seonghwa had yet to step out of the house as yet. He had stayed indoors too afraid to leave the confines of their house. 

And tonight seemed like it was the worst of them all. Hongjoong knew that Seonghwa suffered from nightmares and night terrors occasionally, but who wouldn't with what he had gone through? And usually, Hwa could mostly handle it by himself. But it was different this time.

He's not sure what woke him up, but he sat up straight from his office chair, highly alert. He must have accidentally dozed off while he was working and knew he needed to get to bed if he didn't want a sore back. He ventured through the dark hallways heading to bed. Whatever he had left, he could complete later anyway. 

He was walking towards their room when he noticed the door wide open. Unusual but not strange. However what was, was Seonghwa in the corner of their room, panicking and crying. "Hwa, what are you doing there?" He tried to walk over to him, but he froze when he instead flinched away. "Hwa?" 

"Please, just leave me alone!" He yelled, his tears rolling down his face that were only visible because of the light from their bedside lamps.

Hongjoong was confused at that moment. Had he done something wrong? "Seonghwa, what's wrong?" He again tried to step closer, but he only backed away further. 

"I'm begging you. I-I don't know who you are, but please just stay away from me." He desperately pleaded.

And it dawned on him. He was having an episode. Seonghwa hadn't had those in a while. "Seonghwa!" He urgently called. "It's me, Hongjoong, your husband. I know it's hard to understand anything right now, but you can trust me." He voiced out like he always did, but it seemed to not work this time. 

"I'll give you anything you want. Just please spare me." He begged him, and Hongjoong hated seeing him like that. It had never been this bad. Whenever he would introduce himself, Seonghwa would somewhat calm down enough for him to help, but this time, it didn't seem to be working. 

"Seonghwa, I won't hurt you." He raised his hands to show he meant no harm. "I just want to help, okay?" 

"What do you want from me?" He asked his voice shaky. 

"Like I said, I just want to help." He slowly approached like one would with a scared animal backed into a corner. "So will you let me?" He offered his hand.

There was doubt in his eyes, but he seemed like he might consider his offer and take his outstretched hand. But at the last minute, he pulled away and edged closer to the dangerously open window, the same doubt and fear in his eyes. The fact that he had forgotten about the giant open window made his heart sink to his stomach in that moment. "No! No!" Hwa kept chanting as he violently shook his head in denial.

"Seonghwa, calm down. I'm not going to hurt you!" He tried saying over him, but it seemed to fall on deaf ears.

"Stay away from me!" His steps drew dangerous, and Hongjoong at that moment wished that window was closed because he for sure knew that Seonghwa was not in the right mind and therefore not cautious of his surroundings. Therefore, anything could happen in a matter of seconds.

He was surely wrecking his brain on how to safely get his love away from the window without agitating him, but he couldn't with the way Seonghwa looked close to another breakdown. "Seonghwa-" 

"Just leave! Just leave me the fuck alone!" He yelled with tears running down his face. 

And just like the window wanted them to remember its existence, a gust of wind flew into their room and Seonghwa turned to look at the open window on his side. "Seonghwa, look at me, please!" He desperately called as he tried to get closer.

Seonghwa flinched away and before he knew it he was clinging to the window seal as he swung a leg over. "P-please stop! I don't know what you want but I'm begging, please stay away from me. I-if you don't leave, I'll have no choice but to jump!" He threatened.

Hongjoong could hear his heartbeat ringing in his ears. "I'll stay away but only if you move away from there."

He shook his head. "I would rather jump than let you come closer to me." 

He should have been hurt by his words but he knew Seonghwa didn't mean any of them. He wasn't in his right mind at the moment so he understood that. But what however had his heart leaping out of his chest was how Seonghwa threw the other leg over the edge and sat on the window's edge, both his legs dangling on the other side. He seemed more than determined to get away from him by all means even if it meant jumping from the second level. 

But Hongjoong couldn't and wouldn't allow him. So he moved forward and roughly grabbed him back by his waist, pulling him with so much force that it had them both tumble onto the hardwood floors of their room. But still, he didn't let go of him instead he flipped them so that Seonghwa's back was on the ground so that he could straddle him and hold him down by his wrists. He held down despite Seonghwa fighting against his hold and yelling, screaming for him to let go. Hongjoong stared down at his husband who was in full panic and tears, he knew this was beyond his capabilities. 

He reluctantly reached into his back pocket and grabbed his phone. This was the least he could do at the moment. 

☽︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎🝮︎︎︎︎︎︎︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎☾︎

Chapter Text

He had failed him. 

Hongjoong had promised to always catch him when he was falling. To ground him when he felt he was losing his mind but this time he couldn't be his anchor. 

He stared at his husband who was now peacefully sleeping because of the sedatives they had given to him earlier. If only he had been more cautious then maybe they wouldn't be here in the first place. 

He reached for Seonghwa's hand and found that it was cold. His hands never used to be this cold, they always radiated a warmth that made him feel safe. "I'm so sorry, love." He said as he placed a longing kiss on his knuckles. If there was anything he would change, it would be what Seonghwa went through during that week. He would go back and rewrite everything so that they wouldn't both be here. 

Seven months earlier, before everything happened, they were happy, or at least they pretended they were. It was stressful for them both with everything going around.

He can remember the very first day that Seonghwa had come back home uneasy. He hadn't noticed it initially then but when he had asked the older the same question for the third time that night and got no reply, he knew something was bothering him and finally questioned him what the problem was. Although reluctant, Seonghwa told him. "I don't know. But I received a weird message from someone today." 

"Weird? How so?" He glanced away from his laptop screen and to the other who was fidgeting.

"Today while at work I got a strange email that just...- it would be better to show you." He sighed defeated on how to describe his issue and instead grabbed his phone from his pocket and opened his emails, clicking on the first before passing it over to him. "I'm just overreacting, right?"

Hongjoong couldn't comprehend what he was reading or he didn't want to. Whoever this person was had messaged Hwa and was rambling on and on again about how happy they were to have seen him that day and how that was when they fell in love with him and immediately knew they were destined for each other. It went into further disturbing details and descriptions and indeed showed the ramblings of a madman. "Do you know who sent it to you?" 

He shook his head. "I don't and that's what freaked me out the most. The things he was saying... I don't even remember doing them." 

He stood up and walked over to his troubled fiance, taking his hand in his and giving it a gentle squeeze. "I know and you never would. But for now, just block them, alright?"

"I already did..." He said.

Hongjoong pulled him into a comforting embrace. "Then it should be fine. Just tell me if you get any more weird messages." He told him.

But it wasn't alright. Two weeks later, Seonghwa came home distressed and panicked. The way he had banged their apartment door shut so loudly and fumbled hurriedly with the lock told him something had happened that spooked him so badly. And it was only confirmed when he tried to edge closer to him, and he fully flinched away. "Are you alright? You seem on edge." He slowly reached out to him, just in case he didn't want him to touch him yet or if he simply needed some space for himself.

He looked at him all teary-eyed and scared and immediately started crying as his legs gave up on him, leaving him squatting in the poorly lit entrance of their apartment door with his face hidden in his hands. "Fuck! What happened, Hwa?" He thrashed to his side. 

Seonghwa just continued crying heavily as he tried to mumble what was bothering him but all that came out incoherent mumblings. Hongjoong didn't even know what to do or where to start. He had no idea what was wrong so how was he to comfort his distressed fiancee apart from being by his side until he was ready to speak? "So do you want to tell me what upset you?" He softly asked when he was no longer sobbing so much. 

He tearfully nodded and allowed himself to be led to the couch. When he was finally comfortable, he spoke. "I-I was getting off work when I received a message. I thought it was you texting me, but it was from an unknown number." He shakily breathed in. "I honestly didn't think much about it, but suddenly, I was flooded with multiple texts at once that crept me out a-and then a p-photo showed up. It was of me right in front of the building at that very moment." He teared up again. It seemed just recalling it was scaring him again as he shook in his hold. 

"Wait, there was a photo?" He asked, mildly annoyed but also scared for Seonghwa. 

He nodded. "I looked around, and there was no one watching me, so I don't even know who it was." He sobbed.

This seemed to be going in the exact opposite direction that they wanted. He mainly had his hopes that whoever was bugging Seonghwa would get the message and leave him alone but it seemed to have made it worse and more alarming. "Do you think it's the same person?" He carefully asked. He had a sneaking suspicion but he couldn't be too sure.

He nodded again, shrinking in on himself. As if making himself smaller would hide him away and make the problem disappear. "Did they send you any threatening messages?" He continued to ask.

Seonghwa held himself closer. "...Y-yeah, loads of them." He acknowledged.

Hongjoong warily held tight to his fiancee. From what he could tell, simply blocking this person wouldn't do but he had no idea what to do next. There was only so much the police could do for them when they themselves didn't know what or who they were dealing with. "Do you want to report it?" He carefully asked.

He hesitated. "I-I should, right?"

"It's your choice."

He shrunk more into his side. "Will you go with me?"

"Of course, I will love." There was no way he was going to let him go by himself. It might not be his problem necessarily but he loved him way too much to leave him to go through this alone. 

The next day, they both asked for a day off so that they could go down to the police station and report whoever was harassing Hwa. The police told them that they would investigate and report their findings to them as soon as they found anything in the meantime Seonghwa was to follow a specific set of rules to prevent the stalking for a bit. He was to remove all his social media, change his number and keep as low of a profile as possible. They now just had to wait and hope for the best.

But the waiting game could only go for so long. Hongjoong hated how slowly by slowly Seonghwa was filled with anxiety and worry with each passing day that his stalker would start harassing him again. He wished to do something about it but he couldn't do much. All he could do was assure the other that nothing would happen to him and he would make sure of it. 

They had thought that when they reported to the police, the person terrorising Seonghwa would at least be intimated and stop altogether but instead, they became bolder and started taking more risks. It was maybe a week after the report and they were surprised that the messages seemingly stopped. Seonghwa seemed to believe this too because he looked like he was slowly loosening up again and was less jumpy. 

Seonghwa had been at work that day when he noticed a package on his desk. It wasn't there when he went for lunch so it was definitely put there for him while he was away from his desk but for some reason, he was suspicious of it. He was staring at the package when one of his co-workers walked by and noticed him just standing there. "Is there a problem, Hwa?" 

"Um... no. I was just wondering who put this on my desk." He uneasily laughed. 

His co-worker, Jinah smiled. "Don't look too worried. It might have been your fiance who sent it to surprise you."

Hongjoong hadn't told him about anything like that but then again it wouldn't be a surprise if he told him. But that wouldn't explain why he felt like he shouldn't touch it. "...I don't know. I'll just open it later." He said and pushed it to the side out of his sight. For some reason, it was oddly heavy.

Jinah laughed. "You are too cautious for nothing. How about I open it for you?" She said while reaching out for the package. 

Seonghwa was going to stop her but instead, her sharp scream filled the small office space, drawing everyone's attention to them. He noticed her pale expression and knew whatever was in that box was not good. He slowly looked inside the open box to see why she reacted so strongly and he immediately felt sick when he too looked in.

Inside was the dead body of a cat but not just any cat. Its body mingled and forced into the box, blood staining the sides. But that wasn't the issue, the poor cat inside was the sweet kitten he had been taking care of for some time now. It was a stray close to his home that he would occasionally bring some food since it seemed to only trust and like him but now it was on his desk, bloodied and dead. 

He immediately closed it and turned his focus to his traumatised co-worker. She was pretty shaken and anyone would be if they saw that. He was also slightly shaking himself but he tried to calm himself just enough so that he could focus on Jin-ah.

He helped her walk to the break room where he sat her down and offered her some warm water. She shakily took it and Seonghwa felt bad for her. No one deserved to see that. He too was still processing what he saw, of course, but he couldn't help but think why that little cat was killed and then sent to him. Was it supposed to be some kind of threat? A warning?

His trail of thought was suddenly disrupted when the door's break room suddenly flew open revealing a dishevelled Hongjoong looming at the door. He blinked in surprise. "Joong, what are you doing here?" He asked.

He walked into the room, worry evident in his steps. "I had come to check out some things for the photo shoot but one of your coworkers told me to check on you instead." He looked between him and Jinah, who was still trembling and was still white in the face. "Did something happen?" He cautiously asked. 

Seonghwa also glanced at his friend. "Yeah, it did." He curtly replied. 

Hongjoong could tell something was weighing down on his fiancé's mind. "It must have been something." 

He could tell Hongjoong wanted to know more but they were still a bit too close to Jinah and he wouldn't want to remind her immediately of what just occurred so he pulled Hongjoong by the arm so that they were a good distance from the poor woman. "It was. I'm pretty shaken up myself. I just can't believe that happened." He said lowly with a sigh. 

"So what exactly happened?" He questioned again whilst rubbing his back.

He breathed in. "We had all gone for a lunch break a couple of hours ago and when I returned to my desk, there was this parcel that of course wasn't there before we left. I immediately felt suspicious of it but Jinah thought it was from you and proceeded to open it only to find a dead cat in it...It was Mr. Whiskers. I always stopped by to feed him but now he was all bloodied up in that box like he was nothing. I mean, who would do that to a small defenceless animal?" He must have been more upset about it than he let on because tears had started rolling down his face as he told Hongjoong what happened earlier.

"Oh Hwa..." He sadly said and pulled him into his arms to hug and hold him. "I'm so sorry you had to go through that." 

Seonghwa let himself be comforted. He needed it after what he saw. After a few minutes he let go and Hongjoong wiped the few remaining tears as he gave him a small smile. "How about you guys ask for the rest of the day off?" He suggested. 

That sounded like a good idea because he was sure that both he and Jinah would just be liabilities if they stayed. "I guess we should..." He slightly mumbled.

Hongjoong gently caressed his cheek. "Just try to forget about this, okay?" 

He gave a small nod. "I'll try." 

"I need to get back to work but seriously just go home and relax. I'll be back home as soon as possible, okay?" He said as he walked away. 

Seonghwa watched his fiance leave before he turned back to his colleague. She wasn't shaking anymore but she still seemed out of it. He bent before her. "Hey Jinah, how about we both go home?"

She looked at him and nodded. "Yeah... let's go." She quietly said.

He helped her get up and they both collected their stuff before they ultimately separated to get to their cars but not without saying goodbye. Seonghwa just hoped she would be fine by the next day.

However, as he drove home, the questions remained, Why send something like that to him and what for?

==

The next incident happened soon later.

Seonghwa had been home alone given that it was his day off and Hongjoong was supposed to be in his studio all day. He decided he should focus on their wedding planning. Their wedding was going to be in about 3 months, and yet there was still so much left to do. 

First on his list was sending the invitations. The couple had decided on a somewhat low-key wedding. They weren't into the loud and often chaotic scene, especially the interactions with relatives you hardly knew, so a small one would do for them both. 

He was looking through his mail when he noticed a letter that had no return address. Just his address was listed and directed to him, which was strange. They already received little mail apart from the occasional bill, so a letter was unusual. So curiously, he opened the letter.

To say he was terrified would be undermining it. 

Seonghwa was petrified. 

All the previous messages he had ever received from his stalker were horrible, but none of them were like this. They had crept him out, but they had never made him feel scared for himself to this degree. The messages had always gone into detail about how much the sender loved him and other delusional remarks about the two of them falling in love. The letter just sent chills down his spine. 

It sounded both angry and aggressive. The writer went into length about how angry and upset they were that they had been blocked and how he was being so distant towards them so suddenly. They complained about how their love was not being reciprocated and went into a long rant about how he should leave his fiance and be with him instead. That they could treat him so much better. 

But somewhere in between, it changed tones to something darker. They started threatening him and promising to do the same thing they had done to the cat to him, going into gross detail about how they would do it. They went on to list all the horrid and disgusting things they would do to him, and Seonghwa couldn't finish the letter. 

His mind was railing with hundreds of questions, and panic ran rampant in his head and body. He felt unsafe in his home. The fact that the letter was addressed to his home meant whoever this was knew his home, and they could do anything to him. 

And it slowly dawned on him. 

He was home alone. 

And as if sensing his realisation at that moment, his phone started ringing with an unknown caller ID. With shaky hands, he reluctantly answered it. The only thing he could hear was silence until he heard heavy breathing. "Hello?" He timidly asked.

The breathing continued with no answer. "Who is this?" He asked with panic in his voice. 

But still no reply, instead he heard a knock on the other side, which strangely enough matched the exact one at his door. 

It surely couldn't be a coincidence.

He watched in horror as his front door handle was tried once and then a second time. Suddenly his doorbell rang and everything in Seonghwa told him not to open it. He however moved closer to the camera and watched the hooded figure standing there menacingly. 

The first thing that ran through his mind was to lock all his doors, draw the curtains, and barricade himself in their bedroom. Once he was in, he tried to ignore the insistent knocking and banging at his front door while he dialled 211. 

===

Hongjoong had just finished his shoot and was on his way home when he noticed a lot of missed calls from Seonghwa. He had turned off his phone so that he could concentrate on his work, but it did worry him that Seonghwa had tried to call so many times. He was going to call him back when someone else called him first. He answered it. "Is this Kim Hongjoong?"

The photographer felt uneasy for some reason. "Yes..."

"We are calling from the police station to inform you that someone tried to break into your apartment while your fiance was home alone."

His blood ran cold as thousands of thoughts ran through his head. Had that been the reason Seonghwa was calling? "Is... is he alright?" 

"Fortunately, yes, but he seems pretty shaken up, so he has been taken to the hospital at the moment." 

Hongjoong felt so relieved that he let out a sigh of relief. "Which hospital is it?"

The officer told him but also informed him that they might contact him later to ask some questions. As soon as the call was done, he sprinted out of the building and to his car. He's pretty sure he drove like a madman and will probably get some speeding tickets, but he couldn't care less. He needed to get to Seonghwa immediately and check on him. 

By the time he arrived and was directed to Seonghwa's room, he was panting like he had run all the way there. He opened the door only to find his lover hunched over in the bed, his head hidden in his forearms and knees. 

But he must have been startled by how loud he had opened the door because he flinched and raised his head fully up, alert and on guard. Hongjoong's heart hurt to see him like that. But the moment their eyes met, Seonghwa's posture relaxed, and his eyes filled with tears. 

Hongjoong could only imagine the terror he went through. He walked over and slowly hugged him unsure of if he was doing the right but Seonghwa pulled him closer and cried heavily in his arms, and all he could do was run a soothing hand in his hair and hold him tight, reassuring him that he was still there with him. 

☽︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎🝮︎︎︎︎︎︎︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎☾︎

Chapter Text

Present 

Hongjoong watched his breathing as it came out in short even breaths. In a way, it reassured him that his husband was all right. He might have been unconscious, but he was fine. The sedatives were yet to wear off, but it was a given since it had only been a couple of hours. 

He reached out for his hand and intertwined them together. He had thought the medication was working, but it seemed it hadn't done anything for him. He felt his husband's hand jerk a bit, and he immediately looked at him. He sighed in relief when he noticed Seonghwa's eyes fluttering open. He was finally waking up. 

Hongjoong leaned in closer and ran a soothing hand through his long strands, hoping it would tell the older that he was right there with him as he got out of his daze. Seonghwa's eyes finally opened, and he looked at him and gave him a small smile. "You're finally awake." He softly said.

Seonghwa's bottom lip trembled, and tears gathered in his eyes. "It happened again, didn't it?" 

Hongjoong nodded and gave his hand a little squeeze. "It did." He confirmed.

A hand went over Hwa's eyes, and Hongjoong could tell he was silently crying by the tears running down the side of his face. "How-" He hesitated. "How bad was it?" 

He didn't want to tell him, but he knew that that was what Seonghwa wanted. He always wanted to know so that he could tell if he was getting better. He took in a deep breath. "You couldn't recognise me this time and you... tried to jump again." 

An audible sob came from him this time, and Hongjoong immediately got up from the hospital chair and sat on the bed. "Hwa?" He gently coaxed his hand away, and Seonghwa let him.

His heart broke as he saw the heavy tears falling from his eyes. He pulled him into his embrace and held him like he knew he needed. "There's no need to cry, love. The doctor did tell us that the medicine might not work. We knew that."

He wetly sniffled. "...I know, but I had hoped that this one would work this time. Is it so wrong to hope that it did?"

"Of course not, but that's why we just have to try something else."

"But for how long?" He desperately asked. "How long do I have to do this?! I feel like I'm at my wit's end."

"I know, babe, I know."

Seonghwa abruptly pushed away from him, angry tears now running down his face. "But you don't. You're not the one in constant fear. You're not the one whose dreams are filled with nightmares, and you especially aren't the one who sees his face wherever." He wiped at his tears. "I'm so fucking tired of this, Joong." He slumped back into his hold, tired both mentally and physically. "I just want things to be back to normal. I just want our lives back to how they were before everything happened." 

Hongjoong re-embraced him, holding him closer to himself. "You know I wish for nothing else, but you have to take it slow. We still have a long way to go before we get back to normal." He placed a lingering kiss on the crown of his head. "We will get there. You just have to be patient." 

×××

Two days later, Seonghwa was finally discharged. And after that night, Seonghwa was told to stop taking those meds but since then there seemed to be a dark cloud that hung over his head and Hongjoong knew the only way to help was for him to get the much-needed help he required. 

Before his discharge, Hongjoong had done extensive research on a good psychiatrist for his husband. Seonghwa was right. They couldn't keep living like this. It was getting impractical for them both.

But it seemed his efforts paid off because he was able to find a doctor. Upon his research, Hongjoong had found that this guy was the best in Seoul, so at least that was a start. 

His name, Dr. Kang Yeosang.

His research showed that the man had quite the bunch of rewards and certificates under his belt, and he was well beyond qualified to help them. 

The one problem is how to get Seonghwa to leave the house to get to his appointment and meet the doctor. 

Ever since his discharge, Seonghwa seemed soulless and listless. He would just lay in bed all day, barely moving. At the very least, he should have slept, but his husband just lay there staring out to the window in front of him blankly with nothing behind his eyes. 

He stopped talking too and barely ate, let alone took care of himself. Seonghwa had always prided himself in looking good, but now that was just an afterthought. Hongjoong hated to see him like that as it seemed like he was slowly losing himself and he was unable to do anything but just watch like you would with a bad accident happening in front of you unable to look away but also unable to do anything to help. 

He was getting stressed and worried. This wasn't good. It was as if Seonghwa had mentally checked out and was just a shell of a human being waiting for death to come to take him and at this rate it might. 

Hongjoong rubbed his temples and heavily sighed. This was the third time he had cancelled their appointment, and he was getting frustrated. How was he supposed to help him? He had tried everything, but at this point, he worried Seonghwa just might wither away just like that, and he could do nothing about it but just watch. 

He downed the rest of his whiskey, hissing at the bitter taste. He hated to say, but just like Seonghwa was not coping well, he had resorted to bad coping methods, too. Here he was at 11 am, downing whiskey like it was water. He hadn't even had breakfast and was already drinking on an empty stomach. Hongjoong was never one to drink, but the stress of it all forced him to drain his problems with alcohol. 

He blankly stared at the bottle in front of him before he picked it up again and poured more of the brown liquid into his glass until it was almost overflowing. 

Hongjoong was about ready to drink it all, but his phone started ringing and buzzing on the island top. It was an unknown number, but he didn't give a second thought before he answered the caller. "Hello?" His voice came out rough. 

"Is this Kim Hongjoong?" 

Hongjoong grew suspicious. "Who's asking?"

A deep chuckle came from the other side. "I'm sorry if it sounded suspicious. I was just calling you since I noticed you have called my office countless times for appointments but have always cancelled at the last minute."

"Dr. Kang?" He questioned, surprised. He wouldn't have thought the doctor would call personally. 

"Yes,"

Hongjoong noticed his stupid remark. "I didn't think you would personally reach out?" 

"Well, when I was told that yet again one of my appointments was cancelled, I had to reach out. It is unusual for someone to make so many applications but cancel suddenly."

Hongjoong rubbed his temples. "I'm so sorry about that. It's just... my husband can't be bothered to try and go to see you."

"And why would that be?" The doctor asked.

He glanced over at the bedroom on the second floor where Seonghwa lay. "He just seems unmotivated. He just lays in bed doing nothing. He doesn't eat or move. He just lays there blankly staring out. It's like there is nothing behind his eyes anymore."

"I see..." He hummed.

"So that's why I keep cancelling the appointments. I can't seem to reach out to him, and at this rate, ...I'm pretty sure I will lose him forever." 

"How about this? You send me your address and I will make a home visit to see him."

Hongjoong sat up straight. "You would do that?"

"With your permission, of course."

He couldn't believe it. If it was possible to just let him see Seonghwa once, that would be of great help to him. "Of course, its a yes." He easily agreed.

"Great." The doctor agreed. "I will email you the time of the appointment."

"Thank you so much." He said with relief. 

The two briefly talked a bit and finally said their goodbyes. As soon as they were off, Hongjoong lightly laughed by himself. He was both relieved and grateful that there was a solution. He had lost hope, but suddenly, a string of hope was presented to them. His only hope was that Seonghwa would be willing to meet him there. 

=

Three days later, there was a knock on the front door. Hongjoong took a deep breath in as he steadied his nerves. He opened the door and was stunned. Surely, this guy wasn't a doctor. He was as attractive as an idol, maybe even more than that. Was he getting scammed?

The other smiled at him. "I'm assuming you are Mr. Kim?" 

He nodded his head. "Yes." He was still incredibly suspicious of the man that he forgot to invite the doctor in.

"May I?" The doctor asked.

The photographer mentally smacked his head and stepped aside. "Please." 

Dr Kang walked into the house, and Hongjoong closed the door behind them as he followed the doctor, who was now looking about the place. "This is a beautiful home you have." He lightly complimented. 

"Thank you." He quietly said as he pocketed his hands into his jeans. He had no idea what was to happen from then on. 

The doctor turned to face him with a polite smile. "Well, I think we should get down to business." He directly said. "If you don't mind. Please direct me to where your husband is."

Hongjoong nodded. "Um yeah, sure. This way." He pointed to the stairs that led to the second floor. 

The two slowly ascended the long stairs. "If you don't mind me asking, I would like to know what caused your husband to be like this."

Hongjoong momentarily paused. "I wouldn't mind telling you, but I believe it is not my story to tell." He took a deep breath in. "All I can say at the moment is that it was something terrible." 

The doctor nodded. "I understand, but is there more you can tell me? It might help me gauge how to go about with this."

He started climbing again. "I can tell you that it happened a couple of months back, and the issue was solved, but it left Seonghwa in a bad shape."

The other hummed as he continued following, and soon enough, they made it to the big wooden door of the couple's bedroom. Hongjoong briefly hesitated, but he gave a light knock. "Hwa, can I come in?" 

There was silence on the other side, and he sighed before he opened it. True to his words, Seonghwa lay on the bed, almost unmoving, not blinking but simply staring. At what? No one knew, but his eyes were more glassed over like he wasn't there. He slowly walked over to their bed and knelt beside him. "Hwa, there's someone here to see you." Again, nothing. Just a blank stare. "He's a doctor, and he said he might be able to help you."

The other walked closer but kept a brief distance from the couple. "My name's Kang Yeosang, and I'm a psychiatrist." He softly introduced.

Seonghwa briefly glanced his way. That was a good sign. He continued. "Your husband has told me of your condition. If you don't mind, why don't we have a little chat." 

The long-haired male glanced between the two, and there was a look in his eyes that seemed sceptical. "It won't be long, and I will be the one mostly doing the talking. All you have to do is listen." He said with an easy smile. 

Hongjoong held his breath as he watched Seonghwa. Was it going to work? Slowly, the older sat up and glanced at the doctor before he nodded. There was still an air of scepticism around him, but he had made the first step by himself.

Dr. Kang smiled and then turned to Hongjoong. "I think we got this."

Hongjoong got the hint and stood up. He placed a lingering kiss on the crown of his husband's head and walked off. Just as the door closed, he caught sight of the doctor sitting down on one of the chairs in there. Hopefully, this would be the help Seonghwa needed. 

A couple of hours later, while Hongjoong had been pacing anxiously waiting for the two, the door opened and revealed the doctor coming out of the room. He ran up to him immediately. "So how did it go?"

The doctor smiled. "We got to talk for the most part, but I obviously can't tell you what it was for patient confidentiality reasons. But what I can tell you, however, is that he has agreed to have another meeting with me."

His eyes widened. "Are you serious? So he's willing to try?"

He nodded. "Our next appointment will be next week."

Hongjoong ran a hand through his hair so relieved he could almost cry. "I don't know what to say." 

"It's alright. You don't need to do anything." Dr Kang lightly said as he walked towards the door but momentarily halted. "I think you should go up. He had requested for you while I was leaving. I'll just excuse myself so don't worry about it." 

Hongjoong didn't need to be told twice before he bolted up the stairs and to their room. When was the last time he heard the older's voice, let alone properly had a look at him? He opened the door so fast that Seonghwa slightly flinched at it, but he stayed sat on their bed. The couple looked at each other for what felt like an eternity. 

It had been so long since Hongjoong had seen the clear and focused gaze of his lover that all the anxiety and fear that had settled in him disappeared, leaving him exhausted but so grateful to finally have a glimpse of the other. He hadn't even realised he had begun tearing up. Seonghwa immediately got off the bed and ran over to him, engulfing him in a hug. 

Even the hug at that moment felt overwhelming because that was their first real physical contact for almost a month, and everything about it just broke him more. He had truly missed the older's warm embrace, and he hugged him back just as eagerly. "You're back?" Those were the first words he said to him. 

Seonghwa tearily nodded. "I'm so sorry, my love. I don't know what happened. I just seemed to-" He choked on a sob.

He shook his head and gently shushed him. "It's alright. You don't have to say it. As long as I have you here. That is all that matters."

The older man melted into the hug. Just as Hongjoong had missed him, he had too and probably more because he had to watch the other lose himself and not be able to do anything. It had felt like his consciousness had been sunk to the ocean's floor and had been tied to the seabed, unable to reach above the surface. He had felt like he had been drowning the whole time and unable to do anything about it except simply watch. But now it felt like he could breathe.

=====

Six months had passed since they had first moved back to Seoul and 2 months since that day. Seonghwa seemed to be so much better than he had been in a long time, and Hongjoong found it almost impossible to believe the change. He went from being listless and depressed to vibrant and cheery. Something he had not seen in a long time. He had truly missed this version of his husband. The version that had originally stolen his heart.

Indeed, Yeosang was a miracle worker. He had been able to get the other to be himself again. Like he flipped a switch in the older. It was almost as if he had forgotten what had happened and put it behind him. 

It felt nice to have his husband back. It was as if they could finally see the sun again after it had been blocked by the clouds for so long. He had been right to call Doctor Kang. To think it would be that easy to get Seonghwa back.

As a sign of gratitude, the couple had decided to invite him over for dinner. Just a way to thank him for all he had done for them both. Ever since Seonghwa had started going to their sessions regularly, there was a big difference, and they were both grateful for that. 

A firm knock was heard on their front door, and Seonghwa easily went over to open the door. "Yeosang, you made it." He smiled wide. 

The doctor smiled. "I didn't want to come empty-handed, so I bought a wine with me. I hope you like it." He held up a neatly wrapped package. 

"You didn't need to do that," Seonghwa said as he took the package and held the door for the doctor. 

He entered into the home. "It's the least I could do to thank you for inviting me."

"Honestly, it's the least we can do to thank you." Hongjoong, who had been setting up, came to join the two. "You were a big help to Seonghwa so this much is just what we can do without violating any policies." He playfully stated. "Anyway, we should go to the table before the food starts cooling down."

×××

The dinner had gone well. The couple had never thought that they would find a friend in the doctor, but they did. Over the two months, it seemed Seonghwa bonded more with him, and it pleased Hongjoong to know he had someone who was more than equipped to help him if the need ever arose.

"So now that we are wrapping up your treatment, do you have any plans?" Yeosang asked the oldest amongst them. 

Seonghwa looked over at Hongjoong and then to the doctor. "I don't know. I have been thinking about it and I was thinking that maybe I should start working again." 

"Right, you mentioned that you are an editor?" The doctor asked.

He nodded. "I was just wondering if it was possible for me since I still haven't been given the clear."

Yeosang smiled. "I don't see why not. You have made significant progress over the last few months, so it should be fine."

A wide smile appeared on his face. "For real?"

He hummed in approval. "You should be fine as long as you keep seeing me at least twice every month."

"I can do that." He easily agreed. 

"Then I don't see why you can't go back to work." Yeosang gave ahis approval.

"This calls for celebration!" Hongjoong said as he stood up, grabbing the wine bottle to pour more into their glasses. As soon as he was done, he raised his glass first. "To Seonghwa's fresh start." 

The other two raised their glasses, too. "Cheers!" They both said before downing their drinks. 

Laughter and cheers ensured, and for the first time, that house heard the first sounds of laughter since the couple moved in. It had seen endless tears and true love and now even laughter. 

Surely there was more to come, no?

☽︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎🝮︎︎︎︎︎︎︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎☾︎

Chapter Text

Today was the day. Today Seonghwa was going for his interview. After a long and tedious search, he finally scored an interview with a company that he had admired for so long. He just hoped he was able to get through it without breaking down or worse freezing up at the worst time possible. Those were his biggest worries at the moment. 

He hadn't been anywhere major apart from his home and probably the park in their neighbourhood for afternoon walks. Other than that he had not been anywhere in nearly 4 months. It had felt like there was an invisible barrier preventing him from leaving the safety of his home where he knew nothing would get him but he seemed to overcome that fear because today he was going to an interview. So a big improvement on his part.

He took in a calming breath as he counted to 10 randomly as Yeosang had taught him to prevent panic attacks. He could do this. Yes, something bad happened to him but he was better than that. The firm grip on his knee grounded him even further. "Are you ready?" Hongjoong softly asked. 

Seonghwa gave a small nod. "Better now than never." He replied in a low tone. 

Hongjoong gave him a small smile and squeezed his knee a little but reassuringly. "I know you can do this."

"Yeah, I can do this." He repeated as he slowly looked at the daunting building before him. He undid his seat belt and opened the car door, letting himself out. For a moment, he stood there slightly staring at the building but finally after what felt like forever he started moving. 

He had barely gotten far when Hongjoong called out to him. He looked at the younger still in their car, smiling wide. "Fighting!" He encouraged while raising his fists in the air.

He smiled and copied him. "Fighting!"

He could do this. He had to prove to himself that things do get better but to know that he had to take that first step. He took one deep breath before confidently strutting towards the building. 

×××

Hongjoong promised he would not worry but he broke his promise. For the past hour, he has been mulling over the fact that Seonghwa just went to his first big interview in years. He had confidence that nothing would go wrong but that didn't stop him worrying and sitting in his car for the past hour. He checked his phone one last time and noticed that there were less than 14 minutes before his husband would be back. 

Maybe Honjoong was biased but honestly, he thought Seonghwa was brilliant at what he did. He always had his aura of confidence and determination around him when he was in his element and that is why he was immediately attracted to the older. 

Sure they met coincidentally when they were working on the same project but it was enough for the photographer to gather all his courage and ask the editor out the moment their project was done. He knew there was little to no chance of the other agreeing but it was better to try than regret later on. Surprisingly, Seonghwa agreed and Hongjoong realised it was the best decision he ever made. He got to know Seonghwa and ended up a sweet and loving partner that he would do anything for.

Just as he was daydreaming, Seonghwa walked out of the building. His steps were slow but he didn't seem upset so maybe the interview wasn't all bad. He immediately got out to meet him halfway and scanned his face for anything that might be wrong but there was nothing to show whether he was successful or not. He carefully approached him. "Hey love, how was it?"

Seonghwa shrugged. "I am not sure. For the most part, it was going well until they asked why I stopped working for nearly a year and I didn't feel comfortable revealing why. But as soon as I said that, I could immediately see some of them shake their attitudes towards me change."

"That doesn't mean you did bad."

He sighed sadly. "I know." 

Hongjoong grabbed his hand gently. "Did they say when the results will be out?"

Seonghwa nodded. "They said later this evening at around 7."

"Great," He suddenly said. "How about I take you out on a date then?" 

His eyes widened. "Right now?"

"I mean we are out and have like 6 hours to do nothing so why not have fun while at it." He gave his hand a gentle squeeze. 

He seemed to mull over it until he finally agreed. "Fine." He accepted. "But I'm only agreeing because we haven't gone on a date in nearly a year."

Hongjoong laughed. "I knew that you would agree. You can't resist spending 6 hours with me." He started leading them towards the parked vehicle.

"Maybe it's you who can't do without me." 

He chuckled, "Yeah maybe." He easily agreed because in a way it was true. Hongjoong couldn't live with the older. He was his lifeline after all. 

***

The couple spent the next few hours together going from shops where Hongjoong made sure to buy each and everything his husband wanted, then they went out to eat and even watched a movie. Hongjoong had done such a good job at keeping him distracted that he had forgotten he was even waiting for a call. 

But that was until his phone loudly rang. Seonghwa stared at the number for a bit longer than needed before he went to answer the call. He had moved away from the table they were sat to go outside. He braced himself for whatever was going to happen.

Sure, he was confident in his skills but he still worried that his past might be a hindrance for him. But it seemed he didn't need to worry so much because he got it. He got the job he had always wanted and it was his. 

He couldn't wait to go tell Hongjoong who was watching him even if he thought Seonghwa couldn't see him, through the large glass windows of the cafe. As soon as the call was done, he rushed over to his husband to tell him what happened. He had noticed that Hongjoong was just as anxious and nervous as him which was both sweet and funny to him. 

But before he could even properly sit down, Hongjoong asked him what the results were. "So, what did they say?" He hurriedly asked. 

Seonghwa smiled wide. "I got it. I got the job!"

Hongjoong seemed to relax and he reached out to hold his hands. "See, I told you, you had nothing to worry about."

The older firmly held his hand back. "I know  that but... it won't stop me from doing so."

"Yeah, I know..." He agreed. "But you are moving forward and that's what matters."

Exactly, Seonghwa was moving on from his past and he was building a life he wanted now. There was nothing that was going to stop him besides the person he destroyed his life would never step an inch near him. He was gone forever from his life. 

===

It had been nearly three weeks since he started working and Seonghwa was loving it. Finally, a semblance of what his old life used to be was back. Familiar routines were rooted back and he was grateful for that. Sure, he still had the occasional visit with Yeosang but that wasn't necessarily a bad thing. It was just to know he was still alright and Seonghwa would rather have the regular checks than end up in another spiral. 

His routine changed slightly which took some time for him to adjust to but it was something he was familiar with. For one, he had forgotten how he hated waking up so early and then especially the long hours in the office but weirdly enough he would rather do that than ideally stay at home doing nothing. It was hectic but in a good kind of way. 

He rubbed his shoulders as he got out of his car. He was tired from the meetings that he had to attend back to back so that he could properly understand the way the teams operated since he was now in charge of the department unlike in his old job where he was only responsible for a team or two at most. 

He had been so out of it with exhaustion that he nearly shrieked when a figure popped out of nowhere in front of him. It wasn't necessarily out of nowhere but he hadn't noticed them He blinked as he registered the man standing there. "Um... hello?" He hesitated, still very much spooked. 

The man smiled brightly. "You must be new in the neighbourhood, right?"

He nodded, "Yes. Me and my husband moved here recently."

The other extended his hand towards him. "My name's Wooyoung and I have been seeing you around so I thought I should properly introduce myself officially." 

Seonghwa took his awaiting hand. "Oh... so you live around here?"

"Yep. Just around the corner. I live together with my fiance who was supposed to come but yeah, he couldn't come."

"That must be nice with someone, no?" He giggled. 

Wooyoung scrunched his nose. "I guess."

Seonghwa heartily laughed at that. Wooyoung seemed to be an interesting person and oddly enough Seonghwa felt drawn to him. It had been long since he connected with someone almost immediately. "Hey if you don't mind, you can come in for a couple of tea and we can properly talk. I have lots of questions about the area but didn't know who to ask."

Wooyoung's eyes sparkled with interest. "Of course. I can answer everything you want to know."

Seonghwa smiled and pulled at his house keys. "Alright, this way."

Slowly the two made their way into his house and Seonghwa smiled to himself with a sense of achievement. He had a new job, he was making friends and most importantly, Hongjoong was still his pillar in all of this. Maybe things do get better from there.

**

It was one of those days that the couple were both off work. A rare occasion that they always planned to use fully. They didn't really do much on their days off. Usually, they would just stay at home and do nothing even going as far as to order in because they were too lazy to cook something. It was their way of relaxing and it had been so from their earlier days when they just started dating so when they got married they didn't see why they needed to change that. It had been like that for years well until now. 

But suddenly Seonghwa insisted they needed to redo their whole backyard the week before. He had been saying that it was getting unkempt and needed some improvements. Clearly, Hongjoong's version of 'some' was different from his husband's cause why did he suddenly decide to redo the whole thing? 

So now here he was on his day off, in his backyard uprooting plants instead of maybe staying in bed while he edited. He wasn't complaining that much, okay maybe he was. But that was because he hated being in the sun, the insects that couldn't mind their own business and especially the sweaty feeling over his skin. He's an indoor kind of person. The outdoors were not meant for him. But as for Seonghwa, he seemed to thrive in the outdoors. His small smile as he repotted his plants was enough to tell him that he enjoyed this. 

Hongjoong groaned for the nth time. "Fuck this, I'm tired!" He whined as he threw the pruning scissors to the side and lay fully down on the ground uncaringly.

Seonghwa heartily laughed. "But we just started like 40 minutes ago."

"Doesn't matter. This is the most I have done this whole year! I'm done!" He grumbled. 

"But we have so much to do."

"Well, count me out of it."

"So you will let me do this alone?" He looked at him briefly as if trying to persuade him. 

"Don't look at me like that. You are the one who insisted on redoing the whole thing. It was perfectly alright before. If you wanted to change this we could have contacted a company to do it."

He playfully pouted as he played with the soil. "But I wanted us to do it together." 

"Honestly, I don't get why you are redoing the garden. It seems fine."

Seonghwa disapprovedly sighed. "Do you not see the weeds in the plant beds? Besides we have neglected it for quite some time now and now there are pests everywhere that need to be dealt with"

Hongjoong groaned. "You know we can still call a company for that."

His lovely husband faced him and cheekily smiled. "That will not be happening."

The two continued their useless bickering until there was a knock at their gate. The couple looked at each other. As far as they knew, no one was coming so it was odd in a way. Hongjoong stood up and went to open it to see who it was. As soon as that door was open, Hongjoong was met with two men he did not know. "Um... can I help you?"

The shorter of the two who had blonde in the back and black hair in the front smiled. "Oh, you must be Hongjoong?"

Hongjoong cautiously nodded his head. "Yeah, that's me." He confirmed.

The two-toned man smiled even more if that was even possible. "Excellent. I have been coming over to talk with Hwa but you never seemed to be there. I had initially wanted to meet you both to chat and say hello but there never seemed to be a right time since I only met your husband." He quickly said. "Anyway, my name's Wooyoung and I live three houses down. While this," He pointed to the other beside him. "This is Yunho. Oldest resident in this neighbourhood. Knows each and every one here so it's only right he meets you guys."

He looked at the taller of the three. His expression was blank and showed nothing. His exterior gave off nonchalance and indifference. Yunho gave him a short nod of acknowledgement and Hongjoong did the same. He must have taken long because he soon heard Seonghwa walking towards them. "You are taking quite the time, Joong."

"Sorry, I was just talking with our neighbours." He informed.

"I didn't know they were stopping by." He lightly said as he moved closer. "Oh, Wooyoung! You're here." After that afternoon, they became close and were talking to each other nearly every day that they got to know each other more and realised they were a bit the same in certain ways.  

It had been rather quick but Seonghwa had taken a quick liking to the half-toned male. He was bubbly and lively and so much fun to be with. He was seriously considering being friends with Wooyoung. Sure their personalities were different but that was the charm of such a friendship. Opposites always attracted, after all. 

"Hi, I was just talking with Hongjoong since I had never met him before this." Wooyoung happily said. 

"Yeah, you usually miss him since he leaves early and comes back real late in the night," Seonghwa explained.

Hongjoong blinked at the odd interaction. He knew Seonghwa had been meeting with someone, he just didn't think it was their neighbour. Well, it didn't matter as long as the older was alright with it.

"Well, it's nice that we get to meet finally him."

"So is that him?" Hwa hinted at Yunho and Wooyoung shook his head, getting the hint. 

"Oh no. This is just someone I brought to introduce. Yunho here is like the resident security officer here. He mainly works as a Detective but he helps around."

Seonghwa nervously chuckled. "So you're an officer?" 

Yunho nodded. "I work in the violent crimes division." He simply stated.

Hongjoong noticed the way his husband stiffened a bit so he placed a comforting hand on the small of his back. "Must be a lot of work." He instead said.

"Yes, but I would rather do that than deal with white-collar crimes."

Luckily for them, Wooyoung cut in. "Enough about work. Now that we are here, I wanted to invite you to our annual neighbourhood cookout."

"A cookout?" Seonghwa questioned curiously.

"Yeah, it's nothing major. We just all gather to chat, grill and eat together."

The couple looked at each other momentarily and Hongjoong could see that Seonghwa wanted to go. He smiled and then looked at Wooyoung. "Sure, we would love to come." 

"Great." Wooyoung clapped his hands together. "I'll be sure to text Hwa the details." He excitedly said. "Then we'll get going." 

Just as Wooyoung pulled or rather dragged Yunho away, he gave a small polite bow before he let the other drag him away. The couple watched as the two disappeared around the corner. From the corner of his eye, he saw Seonghwa take in a shaky breath. Hongjoong knew almost immediately that the older might feel both appreciative and worried about a police officer being so close to them. 

He gently rubbed his back. "Are you alright?" 

Seonghwa nodded and gave him a small smile. "Yeah."

Hongjoong would give everything to know what his beautiful lover was thinking but he didn't want to push when unnecessary. "If you say so."

"I do so." He then turned to face him with a teasing glint in his eyes. "So, does my dear husband want to help me in the garden?"

The photographer placed a kiss on his cheek before he went in first back to their home. "Nice try, love but I am going back inside." 

Seonghwa followed, hot on his trail. "Aww. Come on Joong. I still need your help."

The two continued their playful banter completely unaware of the future that waited in lay for them. Funny how such a simple meeting could change everything. 

☽︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎🝮︎︎︎︎︎︎︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎☾︎

Chapter Text

Hongjoong fondly smiled as he watched him mindlessly hum as he worked about in the kitchen. This was something he had not done in a long time and it was nice seeing him working away. It felt familiar like they were so much closer to what they used to be. A semblance of what they had. He had been zoning out for way too long that he didn't notice his husband talking to him. "Hey Joong, what time is the party?" 

When Seonghwa didn't immediately get an answer, he looked over at the younger to see what had got him so preoccupied but instead, he was met with his fond gaze on him. He slightly blushed. "Hongjoong!" He tried again this time a bit louder. 

"What is it, love?" He responded with that stupid grin. 

He shook his head as he went back to prepping the dough for the oven. "I was asking what time is the cookout?" He asked again.

"They said it's around 4 so you have like-" He peered at his phone. "5 hours." 

"That's plenty of time." He hummed as he set aside the rest of the dough to rise.

"What for?" 

"For you to come and help me instead of just watching me." 

He heartily laughed at that until he noticed Seonghwa was being serious, so he stopped laughing. "You know I have no skills whatsoever in the kitchen. Our old kitchen can testify to that."

Seonghwa put a hand on his hip. "Still, I need your help."

"Are you sure you want me to poison our whole neighbourhood?" He joked but still moved to come help him. Sure he might be a walking hazard but that didn't mean he wouldn't go help however he could. 

"That's a risk I'm willing to take." He smiled as he held an apron for him to take.

He took the extra apron. "Alright, so what do you need me for?" 

"I need you to make the cupcakes." Hongjoong grimaced at that. "Don't worry, it's an easy enough recipe. Even an 8 year old can do it."

"I love the fact you have that much confidence in me not to fuck it up." 

Seonghwa smiled as he skimmed through his recipe book and pulled out the recipe. "You'll be fine. I trust you are capable of following something simple like this." He handed it over to his husband.

Hongjoong took it and looked over it and like he said, it seemed easy enough with like 10 steps at most. "Whatever you say." He mumbled, still looking over it.

"Great. You know where the stuff are, so get on with it." 

For the next few hours, the couple spent time baking. Sure there were a few bad bunches (mainly because of someone) but finally they were able to have a fairly decent amount for the cookout. 

Initially, when their neighbours had invited them Hongjoong had been worried. He felt like Seonghwa was still adapting to things again and he was afraid to push him into something he was not ready for. But after some more talks, Seonghwa insisted they should go as it would be the perfect time to formally introduce themselves to their neighbours. 

So now here they were, getting out of their home to go to the neighbourhood cookout. The walk to the park wasn't that far so in less than 10 minutes they were both standing in front of the set-up tents and tables for the event. A lot was happening, kids were running about as they played together, loud music blaring in the background while a BBQ was already fired up and people were gathered about chatting and laughing with each other.

Wooyoung suddenly popped up before them. It seemed he liked to do that a lot. "You finally made it, Hwa."

"Obviously, I told you I would come." Seonghwa smiled.

"You brought cupcakes!" He happily exclaimed, eyeing the containers.

"Fresh out of the oven." He amusedly replied. 

"Great, the kids will be excited for that." He smiled widely. "Come on I'll show you where the dessert setup is and then I'll introduce you to everyone else." Wooyoung started dragging him away.

Seonghwa quickly waved to Hongjoong before he was dragged away and the younger just smiled. "You must be the new neighbours right?"

Hongjoong turned to his side only to see a broad-shouldered male standing next to time. He hadn't even noticed him there. "Um yeah, we moved here a few months ago. Sorry for the late introductions. We were sort of getting used to the place."

"No worries, I get that. I'm San by the way and the guy who just dragged your husband away would be my fiancee." He introduced himself. 

"Right, Hwa might have mentioned that." He brought out his hand. "I'm Hongjoong by the way."

San accepted his hand and gave it a firm shake. "Well, Hongjoong care to join us." He pointed at a group on the other side of the park. 

He shrugged easily. "I don't see why not." 

"Cool, let's go."

The two walked over to the tent and as soon as they arrived they were both handed cans of cold beer. San then introduced him to nearly everyone in the group there and he was surprised at just how many people lived in the area. Finally, the last person he hadn't seen before. "This is Yunho." He wrapped an arm around the tallest man's shoulders. "He lives at the end of your same street. He's been here longest after the Hans and Hwangs."

"We've met before." He politely said. 

"Really?" San asked, intrigued.

"Yeah, when Wooyoung and I stopped by."  Yunho replied. 

San clapped his hands. "Then I guess that's everybody, well at least in this tent. There are still others but that's for later."

The rest of the next couple of hours was spent with Hongjoong talking with his neighbours making light talk but also making sure to keep an eye out for Seonghwa just in case. He was still getting used to crowds and going out so it would be understandable if he felt overwhelmed suddenly. But as of now, it was all good and they both seemed to be enjoying themselves. He was worried but he trusted that the older would seek him out if he needed.

Surprisingly, Seonghwa did come looking for him but he was perfectly fine with a bright smile and a bunch of stuff in his hands. What they were was a complete mystery to him. He stepped closer to his husband as he offered to take some of his load. "What's all this?"

Seonghwa giggled. "They're crafts the kids made for me."

Hongjoong looked at the stuff in his hands. "Why?"

He shrugged. "I don't know they just started handing me things and I just went with it." 

"And I'm guessing you want to take this all back home?" He asked, knowing his husband.

He eagerly nodded and Hongjoong just lovingly sighed. "Sure, we can take them back with us."

==

The couple finally made it back to their home and they were both tired but extremely happy. It finally felt like they were fitting in with the community given that they had been so warmly welcomed. They had laughed and chatted all evening and now they both were drained from the day but they were content. Seonghwa placed the crafts he got from the kids on the dining table. "So what are going to do with them?" Hongjoong asked, watching as the older sorted through them.

"Keep them of course." He said in a matter-of-fact tone like it was the most obvious thing. "I just don't know where though."

Hongjoong just placed a quick kiss on his cheek before he walked to the kitchen leaving the older to figure out what to do with his new acquirements as he grabbed a bottle of water. But it seemed Seonghwa was not interested in doing that at the moment as he followed him to their kitchen. 

"I like this neighbourhood a lot." He lightly commented as he sat on the countertop watching him. 

He hummed in acknowledgement. "Yeah, I like it too. It's very welcoming and friendly." He easily said back as he opened the water bottle. 

"It's also a nice place for raising kids, don't you think?" Seonghwa continued.

Hongjoong quirked a brow towards him. "I would think so." Seonghwa slowly nodded as he swung his legs. It seemed like he wanted to talk about something. "Why are asking?" 

He bit his lip, thoughtfully. "You know today while I was playing with the kids I couldn't help but think about us."

"What about it?" He curiously asked, not expecting such an answer. 

"I dunno, I was just thinking that maybe we should start thinking about our family." He carefully said, making sure to get his point across. 

A small smile appeared on his face and Hongjoong tried not to get to excited just yet. "Are you saying what I think you are saying?"

He nodded eargerly when he noticed the poorly concealed excitement from his husband. "Yeah, I want us to grow our family." He specified. "I know I just got somewhat better and all and even are still figuring out some stuff but I'm tired of pushing back our lives because of some asshole. I mean we had a whole plan and all." He rambled for a bit but paused to take a deep breath. "What I mean to say is do you want to have kids?" He finally looked up at him.

Hongjoong immediately closed the short distance that had been between them and pulled him into a deep possinate kiss. The older who was initially surprised by it, quickly responded with the same valour. He had been worried about what the younger would think about his suggestion but it seemed they were on the same page. They briefly parted to breathe and Seonghwa giggled. "I'll take that as you saying yes."

The younger placed a quick peck on his lips again. "Of course it is. Do you know how long I have been waiting for you to ask?" 

"I'm guessing a long time." He lightly teased back. 

"Just know it has been a while." He chuckled too as he pulled him even closer to properly hug him and wrap his arms over his waist. Since Seonghwa was still sat on the counter, he was the perfect height to lean into his chest and so Hongjoong did so. "We are going to be parents." He softly said, his voice thick with emotion.

Seonghwa gently ran a hand through his hair as he hugged him back. "Yeah, but we haven't even filled in any forms."

Hongjoong suddenly pulled away and looked at him. "So what are we waiting for?"

The older lightly laughed and glanced at the clock hang on the wall. "Love, it's like 10 in the night. We can always do that tomorrow."

He shook his head and pulled him off the counter. "We are getting ourselves registered tonight." He said as he dragged his husband to their home office and Seonghwa just laughed the whole way there, his laughter bouncing off the walls. Life couldn't get any better than that. 

×××

Meanwhile on another side of the city. Things were not looking good at all. Hurried steps echoed through the mostly empty hallway given the late hour. But his steps were ones of determination and urgency, he had to immediately inform his supervisor of what he found out. He rushed to the office and hurriedly opened the door with little care, effectively startling the older man sat at his desk. "Jiwoo what is the meaning of this?" He annoyedly questioned as he turned back to his computer after his startle.

Jiwoo ran up to his Supervisor, a look of panic all over his face. "Sir, there seems to have been a mistake in the system." He urgently told his superior.

The Supervisor frowned and looked at the other, noticing his panic. "What kind of mistake?" He grumbled.

The younger man placed a thick file with a red label on his desk. "It seems Lee Beomseok has been released."

His eyes widened as he suddenly stood up from the shock of the news. "What do you mean he was released?!" He all but shrieked. "That man was never to be released!!"

"An error occurred with the prison's system. They had taken Beomseok to the mental hospital for his treatment but it seemed something went wrong and he was told he was free to leave." 

"How long ago was this?" He hurriedly questioned, still in disbelief at the news.

"About a week ago, Sir. The prison only just realised their mistake."

The supervisor banged his hand on the table with anger and frustration. "Shit! The bastard is probably long fucking gone by now." He cursed. "Have you been able to trace his movements at the moment?" He looked at his junior. 

"No sir. Beomseok has been off the radar since his release. The other officers have already started searching but..."

"There is no way of knowing where the fucker is!" He angrily cursed. The supervisor suddenly turned dead serious. "Jiwoo, we must find that man at all costs. Do you understand?!"

The young police officer saluted. "Yes, sir."

The old man grabbed the file and skimmed through it stopping at the last recorded report that he personally worked on. "Have you checked with his last victim?"

Jiwoo shook his head. "No sir, not yet." 

"Good. We don't want to cause more panic to the victim. He does not need to know unless absolutely necessary. Do you hear me?" He ordered the other.

"But shouldn't we inform him so that he can protect himself if needed?" The young officer asked, confused by the decision. 

Suddenly an image of a shaking and beaten-up male appeared in his mind as he cowarded in a dark corner, trembling and breathing hard from the clear fear still running through him. His clothes were ripped and bloodied while his shoes were long gone leaving his feet bloody from his run on the sharp sticks and gravel. It was clear from a glance that his man had fought for his life despite what he had gone through over the past days. 

The supervisor sighed and then heavily sat down while the man's scared face played in his mind. "For now, just make sure to track Beomseok. We must catch him before he finds his last victim again." He said with finality as he closed the thick file. 

Jiwoo nodded and immediately left to get to work on his orders, leaving the supervisor alone. He eyed the file on his desk until he decided to finally open it again. He skimmed through the information to help refresh the details he couldn't remember but he soon came to a pause on the last report again. His eyes scanned over the crime scene photos and the shots of the victim's injuries taken after the crime. This had to be one of the few cases that would always stay with him. It wasn't every day that a victim like this one actually came so close to death and survived with just pure luck and determination to stay alive. But then again not everyone has faced a psycho killer and lived to see another day. 

---

He hated the heavy rains. They were always a pain and a bother but then again he shouldn't complain, prison was much worse than these lousy droplets. He hadnt been able to see it much less hear it so he shouldn't complain too much. He would much  rather take this than stay in solitary confinement anyway. 

Beomseok stood outside the shady clinic, breathing in deeply. It had taken half of his secret funds to be able to change his face but now it was done and he was a new person. Now even the police will never find him. And even if they did trace him to this clinic, he had paid them enough to keep their mouths shut. 

He pulled his cap closer as he walked the desolate streets. He was a free man technically. It wasn't his fault that he was somehow released. Even he was surprised when the doctor told him that was their last session. He had so easily walked out of the hospital with no guards and no cuffs that he wondered what kind of luck was on his side to be able to get away. 

But now this was his chance. He hadn't forgotten his pet. How could he forget especially after the last time he saw him. 

Those scared yet determined eyes that bore straight into him and sent pleasant shivers down his spine, that soft skin that had so easily given way for his blade and oh, his face, his face was the best. The last time he didn't have time but he would love to see that pretty face covered in blood and tears as he begged for his mercy. Just the thought of it got him all tingly and excited. 

He sighed contentedly into the rain. He had been so close to seeing his fantasy come to life but he just had to run away. No worries, he could always find him again.

Beomseok continued walking down the now familiar path. As he walked, tons of memories came to mind. Each one pleasant and thrilling. He turned a corner and noticed a spot, if he remembers correctly this was where his little bunny used to pet those nasty kittens. Straight ahead was where he would always stop to greet the old people who lived nearby. A couple of blocks away that was where he would play with the kids on the street and finally, he stopped in front of an apartment complex. 

This was where he lived. 

Five floors up, the farthest apartment on the floor, apartment B236, consisting of a four-bedroom layout, a moderate kitchen and a bathroom but just enough for the two people living there he supposed. 

But just the mere thought of going up there and finding him, his shocked and then terrified face would look breathtaking and the thought of that got him feeling giddy and excited. He just couldn't wait any longer.

Beomseok made his way into the building with practised ease and precision before he made his way up the elevators to the right floor. Hopefully, he would be alone so that he could finally have the alone time he desperately wanted with the man. 

And finally, the metal doors of the elevator opened and revealed the apartment he was looking for. His heart raced with anticipation as he edged closer and closer to the door. 

His hands felt sweaty and his heartbeat was ringing in his ears. He raised his hand and finally knocked. He didn't care if the male was alone. If he was good. If he wasn't then he would just get rid of however it was before he turned his full attention to his bunny. 

Shuffling was heard on the other side as the footsteps edged closer to the door. He held his breath as the door opened and finally, it did... 

But who was this? 

Why was there a woman?

The woman looked at him mildly annoyed at the fact someone was at her door so late in the night. "What do you want?"

He smiled as best as he could. "I was looking for the man who lives here."

She frowned. "What? No man lives here." She plainly said. 

"Is this not apartment B236?" He might have got the apartments wrong.

"It is." She simply said. "But like I said no man lives here."

A tight smile appeared on his face. He wasn't really appreciating this woman's attitude towards him. "I was just looking for my friend. I thought this was his place."

She folded her arms over her chest. "You must be talking about the previous tenants. They moved a couple of months ago."

His eyes slightly twitched at the information. "They moved?"

"Yeah." She replied annoyed. "But shouldn't you know that, you're their friend?" She eyed him weirdly.

"It seems they forgot to tell me. I'm so sorry for bothering you so late in the night." He slightly bowed in apology.

"Whatever." The woman mumbled as she just slightly rolled her eyes and closed her door in his face.

Beomseok rolled his tongue over his teeth. He was oh so pissed off. First that annoying woman and then the fact his bunny had decided to move to who knows where. How dare he? He was supposed to be here so that he could find him. 

He was angry and frustrated. He thought he was at arm's length but now he wasn't. God knows where he was now. And who would know where he was? He had to start from square one all over again and track him again. All that hard work for nothing.

He took a deep breath in and he made his way out of the building. It seems he needs to start his search again. He couldn't let his little prey just run from him. They had some unfinished business between them. 

He just couldn't let Park Seonghwa go so easily like that after all. 

☽︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎🝮︎︎︎︎︎︎︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎☾︎

Chapter Text

Present

Detective Jeong had worked on cases for some time now. He hadn't been at the job for more than a decade, for he had done and solved enough to get him promoted to be a Detective rather quickly. When he received said promotion, he was the youngest to ever have done so at just 24 years old. It's pretty unusual in that line of work. He was smart, quick-witted, and could easily solve some of the hardest cases, making him among the top detectives in the country.

Maybe that is why his boss had asked him to do a task of fragile importance.

Yunho had been awarded the task of finding the renowned killer and rapist, Lee Beomseok, who had been accidentally released about a month ago. He could remember the day that Beomseok had been caught and arrested. It had caused quite the stir in the nation it had been everywhere on the news, and Yunho, like everyone, was curious about the case.

The reports said he had been caught because of his latest victim, whom he had abducted and held hostage for 5 days before they escaped by themselves and were found by the police who were searching the area coincidentally.

The lead detective in charge of the case had said that the victim, K, was lucky to be found alive even if they had suffered from significant injuries that needed them to be hospitalised for more than two months. But they were still alive, unlike the other previous victims of the man.

The chief had gone into specific details about his new case, which really wasn't necessary since he knew a bit because it had been all over for months till the trial. The chief went through everything from the number of victims, who they were and the most important of all, victim K.

"I have gone through everything, Jeong, but what I have to reveal next should not be released to the public." The chief sternly said.

Yunho nodded. "I understand, Sir."

"Good." He then reached for a separate file and opened it before sliding it to the young detective. "This file contains the identity and information of victim K."

Yunho reached for it. "So the victim. Is he aware that Beomseok is on the loose?" He questioned as he opened the file.

"The previous Detective said he had not been informed when it happened but because it is believed Beomseok is now in our jurisdiction, we are being tasked with finding him as fast as possible before the public or the victim find out."

The detective nodded his head as he followed along with what the chief was telling him. He also noticed something. "Is it because the victim moved to this area? It says here that he moved about a year ago."

"Yes. We believe that Beomseok is looking for him. If not, he might have already found him and is laying in wait to attack."

Yunho turned the page, and he frowned when he noticed the area in which the victim lived. "He lives in Hwayong?" He questioned.

"Apparently so. I was also surprised with that information."

That was where he lived and Yunho knew everything that happened there. If the information was right, there was only one couple who had moved at just the same time as the report. He hurriedly turned the page and checked the name and the picture of the victim. "Park Seonghwa?" He questioned, surprised. It was him.

"What is it, Jeong?"

He shook his head. "Nothing. It's just I was surprised by the name. It's pretty rare." He instead said.

The chief shrugged. "I guess. Anyway, I have assigned you a partner. You two will be the only ones who know of this. Be sure to make it quick."

Yunho stood up and slightly bowed before the older man. "I'll do my best." He curtly said before leaving with the file in hand.

As he walked he couldn't help but feel like this case might not be the easiest. It already felt eerie as it was but that didn't mean he would half-ass it. Someone's life was on the line for all he knew and he couldn't risk it.

He walked to his department located on the second floor and pushed the door to the stairs instead of the elevators which would be crowded most likely. Working in the violent crimes department meant he had seen a lot more than most people would in a lifetime. He wouldn't say he loved his job but someone had to do it and it just so happened he had the talent for these kinds of things.

His desk was located at the very back of the office space in front of the windows that overlooked the entrance of the precinct. He mindlessly pulled his blinds as he sat down immediately opening the file to reread it, making sure to memorise the details.

One thing he understood was that this guy, Beomseok was psychotically crazy and that would still not be enough to explain his long criminal history. He has had about 8 reports of sexual assault, 5 reports of stalking and harassment, 10 counts of breaking and entering, 6 counts of physical assault and battery, 4 counts of kidnapping, 2 counts of mishandling of a dead body, 9 counts of destruction of evidence, 2 counts of third-degree murder and 1 count of attempted murder. All of which he was tried and sentenced for and was why he was given life in prison with no chance of parole.

Given his sentencing, it made zero sense how the prison was been able to mess up so badly and release such a man. He was by no means supposed to be allowed back into society and if people were to get wind of the fact he was out, wild panic would spread throughout.

He had been so concentrated on his reading that he hadn't realised someone else had come to his desk. It was the light knock on the surface that caught his attention. "I see you are already at it."

Yunho looked up at the spiky-haired blonde. "The sooner the better." He commented. "I'm guessing your being here means you have also been assigned this case?"

"Always the sharp one, Yunho. But yes, we get to work together." The blonde said as he flopped unto his seat opposite him.

"The chief briefed you already, right?" He turned in his revolving chair to face him.

"Yeah." Mingi, his partner,  answered as he skimmed through this congested desk piled up with different documents and files looking for something.

"So what do you think?" He asked for his option.

"About?" Mingi questioned as he tossed his stress ball he had been looking for in the air.

"The case? What do you think about it?"

Mingi hummed as he continued playing with the ball. "I guess I would question where he is at the moment. There have not been any suspicious reports as far as we know."

He nodded in agreement. "That's my thought, exactly. Beomseok can not go too long without committing a crime. His criminal record is proof of that."

"True." Mingi agreed. "But then how come he is so quiet now?"

Yunho leaned further into his chair as he thought. "Precisely. Something is not making sense."

"What do you mean?"

He grabbed the file from his desk and brought it closer to the blonde. "See here, it says Beomseok was released four months ago. His credit card showed no signs of activity but his bank transfers tell a different story."

Mingi quirked a brow. "He withdrew 10 million? Didn't know he had that kind of money."

"Exactly. This account is just his main one. He has about 4 others in different banks and all have a least 5 million in them."

"So what you are saying is that the guy is loaded?"

"Not point." He rolled his eyes. "What I'm saying is Beomseok's last activity was when he was withdrawing money in the red light district of Sinwolgok."

"So?" Mingi was finding it hard to follow the other's thoughts.

"Beomseok has never been one to go looking for prostitutes. All his victims were of middle class or upwards. He never went for those he deemed as 'lower class' so it's unlikely he went there in search of a victim."

Minnie thought about it and it made sense in theory at least but there was a plot hole. "Unless his desperate. People can change preferences when they need to scratch that itch, so it's highly possible. It would also explain why no one has said anything."

He shook his head, refuting his words. "The thing about Beomseok is that he can't get a new victim until he has finished with the previous one. It's his pattern and if that's anything to go by then he will go back to his last victim."

"So has he?" Mingi questioned intrigued.

"That's the thing. It seems he hasn't as yet. There hasn't been any news of his sighting or even an attempt."

Mingi raised a brow. "The chief said the victim doesn't know about the release so he probably isn't looking for his attacker in every corner he turns. He might be lurking close to him."

"Doubt it. Beomseok likes to make his actions known to his victims. He likes seeing them fearful and breaking down from the anxiety and fear as he watches them. No word from the victim means he hasn't made himself known as yet."

"Damn! You really have psychoanalysised the dude." Mingi mused, highly impressed with his partner. "Well, where do we start? I'm guessing you already have an idea of where."

Yunho nodded and brought out his tablet with a map already on screen that he had been looking at before Mingi came in. "We start from where he started and see where it takes us."

He looked over the mapped out area. "Alright, so when do we start?"

Yunho suddenly stood up and grabbed his backpack by the side and the file too. "Right now." He easily said and turned to leave.

"Now?!" Mingi hurriedly sprung to his feet as he collected his stuff in a hurry trying to catch up to the other who was by now exiting the department office space. He rushed to his partner's side as they walked towards the stairs that led outside. "So where are we going?"

Yunho opened the door for them both. "We head to the very beginning. The mental hospital."

===

Investigating is not as easy as the movies and shows make it out to be. It has never been and Yunho knows that but it doesn't stop him from wishing it was. Trying to put together a concise and reasonable story is not easy. You have to rely on the evidence, witnesses and even questionable sources to help. But the most important in this line of work was to question each and everything, never accept anything anyone says as 100% true. Lies can be so easily woven in without your knowledge.

The two slowly pulled up to a dimly lit alleyway that was by no means safe by th3 looks of it but they needed to pass through to get to the other side where a supposed clinic or hospital was, the last suspected place Beomseok was seen. They got out of their vehicles. The air felt more stale than in the streets of Seoul and that was saying something.

Yunho glanced at his phone one last time just to make sure they were going the right way. "This is it!" He confirmed Mingi's internal question that he was sure he was asking himself.

"You sure?" He hesitantly asked as he peaked down the alleyway to the supposed entrance of a clinic in the corner. He's pretty sure this was a terrible idea waiting to happen.

"Yes, the map said the location is just up ahead through there."

"Why does it always have to be a creepy alleyway? Why can't it be in a lowkey suburb area or even an abandoned building?"

Yunho shook his head as he took the lead. "Do you hear the actual words that come out of your mouth?"

"It's not my fault that my murder is not on my bingo card." He grumbled as he chased after his partner. He did not by any means want to be left behind by the other.

"Yeah, well we have a job to do and that involves going through creepy and ominous alleys." He said as he headed first into the dark pathway.

"I swear to god if I fucking die, I'll haunt your ass." He grumbled as he followed the other.

The supposed health centre or clinic they were looking for was a shady establishment that functions with the black market. They used ghost doctors, foreign and prohibited operations to treat clients and generally everything they did was under the table and very much illegal. These types of work were hardly traceable and hard to track who or where what was done. Forbidden surgeries can be done there but at a very hefty cost.

Maybe that was why Beomseok came to the shady health centre. What for? They had no idea. Honestly, it made no sense why he even went through the trouble to look for one. But Yunho did however have a hunch on what it could be. They just needed to confirm it. Easy...

Well not exactly. There was a reason why a shady establishment was preferred if you wanted to do something illegal or wanted to go under the radar. They knew how to keep everything lowkey and Yunho knew that even if he flashed his police badge to the people there they would not even spare him a look much less pay attention to him. And yet they needed that information at all costs. Maybe requesting won't do much but he never said that was the only way to do things.

He wasn't a big fan of violence or threats but that's why he had his partner. Mingi's way of questioning was... unique. Not necessarily wrong but very questionable.

So yeah, maybe they were now holding an employee of the health centre hostage in the dark depths of the alley as they threatened him for information. "Please I have a family that I need to take care of." The man pleaded.

Mingi frowned, confused. "You know we haven't yet threatened you, right?"

"But you are going to do so." The man quipped back.

"Not if you answer some of our questions."

"I would rather let the police do it than a bunch of hooligans." He yelled in his face.

Mingi smirked and pulled out his police badge. "So you were saying?"

The man groaned, having not accepted that. "Fine, what do you want to know?"

"We are looking for a man who came to the clinic about two months ago."

The employee scoffed. "You have got to be more specific than that, man."

Yunho who had been silently watching responded instead. "The man is about 6'2, has dark brown hair, and has a thick Busan accent. Probably came for a facial reconstruction."

Mingi was confused and intrigued. That was not how Beomseok would be described at all so what the hell was Yunho talking about.

The employee snapped his fingers. "There was a man like that who came asking for that same procedure. The only reason I even remember him is because he paid quite a hefty amount and put some weird requests along it."

"Ah...so you were paid?" Mingi looked at the man who realised his mistake too late.

He sighed. "Look, it was a lot of money to turn down."

"So when was his procedure done?" Yunho instead asked.

The man thought about it. "I would say about a month and a half ago,"

"Did he happen to mention anything significant or even strange?" Yunho asked knowing it might be a stretch but it was still worth asking.

"Not really he just said he was excited to be seeing someone after a long time."

"Anything else." He hinted.

"Nope, he just said it was someone he had unfinished business with."

Yunho frowned. Did he already find out where the victim was? No that wasn't possible. He had only recently been released so he wouldn't know that so he might have headed to the victim's last known address in hopes of finding him.

"Mingi, we need to go."

"Already?" He questioned, surprised. They had barely questioned the man so what were they going to do?

"We got everything we need." He replied as he walked away. Mingi quickly followed him leaving the man to go back to his business, whatever it was.

According to what the employee had said Yunho's best guess was for them to head to the old apartment for the victim from there they could probably find some clues. As soon as they got there, they got exactly what he had been hoping for. From what he gathered from the new tenant, a man came to her apartment a month ago claiming to be looking for his friend who previously lived there.

You didn't need to be a genius to figure out that it was Beomseok who was on the hunt for his victim. Unfortunately for him, he had moved and clues on his location were not widely known since the police had told the couple to not tell anyone where they were going apart from maybe their family.

So if Beomseok had already been here, that means he knows he isn't here. He might have already started his search and may have found out all he wanted and needed but that was a guess. There was no real way of knowing where or whether he knew and if he was on the move already.

But Yunho wasn't one to give up so with the footage from the apartment which he wasn't even surprised when he couldn't see his face. Beomseok was always able to evade them but he couldn't hide his silhouette. It was hard work, trying to scan through hundreds of security cameras trying to figure out where Beomseok went but once they had it they were able to find out something.

Beomseok, that cunning bastard was in fact close to finding out where his victim was. How he found out was beyond them but they did find it very strange and peculiar that he went to the least expected place. He went to the victim's husband's company. Not their home or even the victim's workplace but to see his husband.

Strange....

===

So this was the last place that Beomseok was suspected to have been and it is really odd. What would he want with the victim's husband? If Yunho remembers correctly, Beomseok and Hongjoong had some history. Whether it was good or bad was up for one to know. All the police files stated was that they worked together before the incident. So they knew each other to a degree.

But now the big question is, why come to the new workplace of the husband?

Yunho and Mingi were quiet the whole ride up to the eighth floor, where Hongjoong had agreed to meet with them. Since it was short notice they had agreed to meet in his office. Yunho frowned deep in thought. "Do you think Mr Kim knew that Beomseok was released by accident?" Mingi asked what he had been pondering too.

"Who knows? Just the fact that Beomseok came here just feels weird."

"So he found out but came to see the husband first?" Mingi pointed out.

"Or maybe it was the other way round and he had come to do something." Yunho instead said.

"And what would that be?"

The elevator stopped and the metal doors opened. "That is for us to find out."

The two officers made their way through office hallways which were thoroughly decorated with covers of magazines that if you looked closer were all done by Hongjoong. That just showed how talented the man was even if he had only recently joined the company about a year ago. Finding the photographer's office was easy thanks to the help of a staff member and now they were in his office face to face with the man.

"Hello, Mr. Kim, we are from the police station and we have some questions we would like to ask you."

Hongjoong folded his arms over his desk and stared them down, his gaze cold, piercing and calculating. "Sure, you can ask me all that you want."

And in that moment, Yunho knew there was something about the man that threw him off. He couldn't tell what it was but he would make sure to find out what it was.

☽︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎🝮︎︎︎︎︎︎︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎༒︎☾︎