Cherry Cake Chapter 14.1

“Thrilling as hell, huh.”

Seo Soohyun paused while unbuckling his seatbelt, turning his gaze toward the man in the driver’s seat. Moments ago, his eyes had been fixed on the scenery ahead. Gi Taeyeon, chuckling lightly, finally moved to get out.

Was it that obvious? Unfazed, Soohyun opened the passenger door to follow. They’d just arrived at their destination, so he figured he’d step out before answering.

“It’s only natural to be thrilled. You’d feel the same in my shoes, Director.”

“Yeah, right.”

Wouldn’t anyone be excited? Coming to a place he’d been eagerly anticipating—there was no reason not to feel his heart race.

“People living the good life wouldn’t even glance at this place. Who was it that said private loans are a one-way ticket to hell?”

“That’s still my stance, but I’m not here to take out a loan.”

Today was the day he’d finally visit Seonje Capital.

He’d brought up his grandfather’s warnings to the man who told him to speak up if he needed money—not because he had any intention of borrowing. Soohyun knew all too well how dangerous private loans were. He’d never borrowed from a loan shark himself, but the elders always said it was as ruinous as gambling, dragging everyone around into hell.

Wait, now that I think about it, maybe I have experienced it?

His legal guardian, Seo Jungkyun, had borrowed a fortune from Gi Taeyeon, so perhaps his life wasn’t entirely free of loan ties. If he hadn’t gotten entangled with the man over land issues before that, he might’ve had to repay that debt in Jungkyun’s place.

Meeting the Director was such a stroke of luck.

His father had passed early, but Soohyun often thought he was a lucky kid for living most of his life happily and peacefully—and he really was lucky.

Of course, if he were truly lucky, his legal guardian wouldn’t have put his grandfather’s land up as collateral, getting mixed up with loans in the first place. But dwelling on what-ifs and blaming bad luck for things already done was foolish. So, Soohyun always chose to see himself as fortunate.

“Your workplace… no, not workplace. Business? I’m just excited thinking about visiting it. When else would I get to see a loan office?”

“Wonder how you held back your curiosity all this time.”

“It’s not like I was dying to know. You promised to take me someday, so I just figured I’d see it eventually. And yeah, I’m excited to be here, but honestly, I’m more thrilled to be out with you.”

“Oh, really?”

Gi Taeyeon jerked his chin toward the building, as if saying to hurry inside since it was hot.

“So, what’s your first impression?”

“Uh… I think I’ll know better once we’re inside.”

The man, silently curling his lips, grabbed his hand. He always complained about hating the heat with his warm body, yet he loved these little touches—during sex and otherwise. It was oddly charming.

Hehe. Soohyun laughed aloud, squeezing the hand Gi Taeyeon had snatched. Even as the man lowered his gaze, raising an eyebrow, Soohyun shook his head as if it were nothing.

“What floor’s Seonje’s office?”

“Top.”

Only after asking did he notice the plaque by the elevator. “Seonje Capital” was engraved at the very top.

The building’s exterior, this lobby—it’s so different from what I imagined.

He trailed Gi Taeyeon onto the elevator. Like the building’s facade, the elevator boasted a sleek, upscale vibe.

When the car stopped in the parking lot, Soohyun had wondered if Gi Taeyeon was briefly stopping by Seowoo Construction. The building was far too grand and polished for what he’d pictured. He knew it wasn’t Seowoo’s building—he’d been there often enough—but big companies in Seoul owned multiple properties, so he’d assumed it was something like that.

So when Gi Taeyeon told him to get out, he was quietly surprised.

Guess the old movies I saw were way off from today.

Since Gi Taeyeon himself used the term “loan shark,” it likely leaned more illegal than legal, so running such a business in a pristine building felt wildly unexpected.

Even if it wasn’t the scene he’d imagined, the thrill of stepping into another of his lover’s businesses had him looking around eagerly when the elevator dinged open.

“Director. Good to see you. Been a while, Soohyun-nim.”

“Huh? Hello.”

Beyond the sliding doors stood a familiar face. It was Kim Jipil, who’d helped him settle into Seoul life back when he first arrived. He’d even told them where to buy seedlings, making their trip with Gi Taeyeon possible.

“You work here too?”

“Sometimes, sometimes. Haha.”

Kim Jipil rubbed his short, chestnut-like hair, laughing heartily.

“Any clients?”

“Nope. Here, it’s obviously… ahem. Shall I escort you to the president’s office?”

“Go do your work. I’ll show him around.”

“Yes, sir. Call if you need anything.”

Kim Jipil rambled but trailed off, though Soohyun, distracted by the office, didn’t notice. He just hurried after Gi Taeyeon’s leisurely steps.

“It’s so…”

“So what?”

“Like a regular company?”

Compared to Seowoo, it was smaller, but it resembled any office from a drama. His image of a single, dingy room felt embarrassingly off.

“Bet that tiny brain’s cooking up nonsense again.”

“Not really.”

“Good day, Boss.”

The employees greeting Gi Taeyeon were the same. He’d pictured loan sharks as hulking, rough types, but these guys were slighter than the uncles he’d seen at Seowoo. Without a knack for spotting traits, he couldn’t be sure, but most seemed like betas.

Now that I think about it, the thug types might be more into gang stuff than loans…

Wasn’t gang work and loan sharking the same thing? Confused but not wanting to be rude in front of employees, Soohyun kept his questions to himself.

“Good day!”

An employee greeting Gi Taeyeon spotted Soohyun and shouted, bowing deeply. Used to loud elders in the village, Soohyun wasn’t fazed by sudden yells. But seeing someone much older bow at a 90-degree angle, he widened his eyes in shock.

“You’ll scare him.”

“I’m not scared. Hello.”

Bowing back at a right angle felt awkward, so he nodded lightly. The man straightened, visibly tense, glancing at Gi Taeyeon. With the boss present, he was clearly nervous.

He looks experienced but must be a junior employee.

Shaking off rude thoughts, Soohyun naturally looked at Gi Taeyeon.

“Director, I’m curious about the president’s office.”

The man’s tense face suggested leaving quickly was best.

“Gotta see more, Boss. Brought you all this way.”

Gi Taeyeon grinned. Calling him “Boss” after mentioning the president’s office was deliberate.

“Seeing where you work is enough. And it’s like Seowoo—nothing special to explore. I just wanna check out the president’s office.”

Shaking his hand petulantly, Soohyun met Gi Taeyeon’s steady gaze before being suddenly scooped up. It was embarrassing to be carried in front of a stranger, but dating Gi Taeyeon had made him shameless, so he let himself be held, passing through the hallway.

Over his shoulder, he saw the stunned employee. Their eyes met briefly before the man turned and fled as if he’d seen a ghost, leaving a vivid afterimage.

Guess he was shocked seeing a grown guy get carried.

Even he thought it was childish, feeling a bit sheepish. But spilt milk—what could he do?

Still, realizing he’d done a good deed warmed his heart. He’d saved a nervous employee from Gi Taeyeon’s presence, after all.

Gotta brag to Bokshil later.

Nestled in his lover’s arms, Soohyun observed the passing scenery. The sleek office matched none of his expectations. The president’s office was no different.

“What’s with that face?”

The man on the leather sofa poked his soft cheek. Sitting on Gi Taeyeon’s lap, Soohyun scanned the room.

“Last time at your company, I didn’t think much, but seeing this today, I get it.”

“Get what?”

“Your taste in interiors.”

It wasn’t an exact replica, but the vibe was similar. The pristine leather sofa, the spotless table—never used, it seemed. The only difference was the lack of a shower room.

“Taste?”

“Like at home, you must love neutrals. I thought you’d go for flashy stuff, judging by your shirts… but this place is super clean too.”

Learning his lover’s tastes bit by bit was a rare treat. Digging into the years that shaped Gi Taeyeon brought Soohyun joy.

“I never imagined a loan office would feel like this.”

“What’d you picture?”

Gi Taeyeon poked his cheek again, responding slyly.

His omega would never know he’d set up a new office to avoid exposing Soohyun to unsavory sights.

Maybe he’ll figure it out someday.

Soohyun wasn’t clueless about his true nature, and there was no need to hide it. But clients barging into Seonje unannounced were usually desperate and unhinged. Deciding Soohyun didn’t need exposure to that, he’d made this choice.

Anything involving Soohyun, he wouldn’t handle lightly.

“I pictured a grimy office in some back alley. No need for a shiny building, right? It’s not a legit company… Does saying that upset you?”

His chattering and rolling eyes were awfully cute.

“Keep going.”

Gi Taeyeon pressed his chubby cheek habitually, like kneading warm dough.

“I mean, people who need it will come anyway, so it doesn’t need to look fancy. And this president’s office too—it’s nice, not weird, but I didn’t expect it to be like Seowoo’s director’s office. I imagined an old leather sofa, an ashtray on a table. That desk over there? Thought it’d be beat-up.”

Following Soohyun’s gaze, Gi Taeyeon saw a brand-new desk and chair. He’d told Seo Jihwan to decorate decently, so they were probably similar to the director’s office. He’d never sat there—this was his first visit—but still.

“The employees too—I thought they’d be rough like Jipil-uncle, but nope. Guess I had stereotypes.”

“Probably watched some weird movie.”

“They’re old, not weird. They say movies and dramas are researched. But free TV movies are all dated, so I must’ve pictured the past.”

“So you wanted to check it out? Verify?”

“Not verify—just curious.”

Few would admit curiosity about a loan office to a loan shark.

Gi Taeyeon’s real business matched much of Soohyun’s guesses. Not a proper company, so no need to splurge on appearances.

Plus, Seonje wasn’t your average loan shark, so a legit office was even less necessary.

Maybe I’ll show him when he’s older.

Soohyun probably wouldn’t care by then, but noting his interest wouldn’t hurt.

Guess I’ll play along today.

“Anything you wanna do here?”

“Do here?”

The unexpected question stumped Soohyun.

He’d only been curious if it resembled movies, not planning to do anything at a loan office. Especially not a place dealing in loans—threatening deadbeats never crossed his mind.

What else is there to do here? Soohyun racked his brain. If he had to pick something…

“Oh, I got it.”

“What do you wanna do?”

Soohyun started slowly.

“Eat jjajangmyeon…?”

Unsure if it was okay, his voice lilted up.

“Director. Jjajangmyeon’s here.”

Kim Jipil, entering quietly despite his bulk, bowed and set packaged food on the spotless glass table. Two gan-jjajang, tangsuyuk, and sides—danmuji, kkadugi, onions—followed.

Since he’d fetched it himself, not delivery, Soohyun thanked him.

“Thanks. I’ll enjoy it, Uncle.”

“Oh, no need. Director’s treat anyway. Thanks to him, we’re eating well too. Haha. Rushed back so it’s hot—eat quick.”

“You eating with the others, Uncle?”

Unlike the village Chinese restaurant where the owner delivered in a metal case, the jjajangmyeon wasn’t wrapped in cling film. Soohyun removed the disposable lid, looking up at Kim Jipil. Gi Taeyeon, beside him, added lazily.

“Eat here.”

“Huh?”

Blinking at the sudden order, Kim Jipil soon grinned and plopped onto the opposite sofa.

“Sounds good.”

He pulled out the remaining jjajangmyeon from the plastic bag.

“What about the tangsuyuk sauce?”

His easygoing attitude reminded Soohyun that Kim Jipil was Gi Taeyeon’s close aide. He’d eaten with him at company dinners, so this wasn’t awkward for him.

When asked to order jjajangmyeon, he’d recommended a nearby spot that didn’t deliver, even going himself. Only someone close to Gi Taeyeon could manage that.

Was gonna eat just us two. Why’d he invite Uncle? Good thing Jipil-uncle’s here, though.

If it were just tense folks like earlier, Soohyun would’ve felt uneasy.

I’ll share kimchi with Jipil-uncle this winter, he vowed, turning to Gi Taeyeon. Though the question was for him, Gi Taeyeon was the eldest, so his opinion came first.

“How do you like yours, Director?”

“Don’t care.”

“Me neither… Hmm, pouring’s easier than dipping. What’s your style, Uncle?”

“Nah, I don’t fuss over pouring or dipping. Good taste is enough. I’ll pour.”

Without hesitation, Kim Jipil dumped sauce over the crispy tangsuyuk. Ready to mix his jjajangmyeon, Soohyun froze. The noodles were already mixed, with Gi Taeyeon’s chopsticks tapping the bowl as a bonus.

“Will this fill my baby up?”

The teasing tone was obvious, but Soohyun didn’t refuse, lifting the bowl with one hand. Grandpa scolded that only ill-mannered folks ate from lifted bowls, but the low table made it cleaner to hold.

“It’s a double portion, so I’m good. Plus tangsuyuk. Let’s eat.”

“Yesss, eat lots.”

“Enjoy!”

“You too, Uncle.”

Kim Jipil, legs spread wide, checked Gi Taeyeon eating before diving into his jjajangmyeon. Watching him, Soohyun smiled contentedly and moved his chopsticks.

“Delicious.”

One bite of jjajangmyeon, and “delicious” slipped out. The restaurant wasn’t far, but noodles could swell en route, so Kim Jipil suggested gan-jjajang. Whether due to separate sauce or his speed, the chewy noodles blended perfectly with the dry sauce.

Crispy onions added a treat. Half-cooked, they lent sweetness to the jjajangmyeon’s savoriness with each bite.

“Suits your taste?”

“Yeah. It’s been ages since I had gan-jjajang—super tasty. Thanks to you, Uncle.”

Smiling at Gi Taeyeon’s question, Soohyun ended by looking at Kim Jipil.

“Money’s from someone else, but you’re thanking another guy?”

Gi Taeyeon said this while placing tangsuyuk in Soohyun’s bowl. Used to him serving food, Soohyun naturally picked up a piece. If basic jjajangmyeon was this good, the tangsuyuk had to be too.

“Of course I’m grateful to you, but Uncle did the legwork. Ow, hot!”

Finishing his retort, he popped in tangsuyuk—fresh-from-the-fryer hot. Unable to spit it out, he tried cooling it in his mouth when a water bottle touched his lips. Instinctively grabbing it, Soohyun gulped. Familiar warmth came from the hand under his.

“Burned?”

Tilting his head to signal he was done, he saw Gi Taeyeon frown, rubbing his lips to check inside.

“Not bad enough to peel my palate.”

Fearing fingers in his mouth, Soohyun quickly explained. Even if Gi Taeyeon often touched there, he wasn’t a real baby—couldn’t let him check after eating, especially with someone across.

“Eat slower.”

Gi Taeyeon reluctantly pulled back, irritably furrowing his brow. Not mad at him, so Soohyun replied casually.

“Didn’t know it’d be that hot. Would’ve cooled it first… But you gave me water, so I’m fine. I’ll cool it properly—don’t worry.”

It wasn’t palate-peeling bad, so he went for more jjajangmyeon when the man opposite caught his eye. Never flustered before, Kim Jipil blinked like a sloth, then slowly dropped his head, eating jjajangmyeon with rigid posture.

Must be starving. Brushing it off, Soohyun worked his chopsticks eagerly. The jjajangmyeon had a subtle smoky flavor and tons of ingredients—insanely good.

“Eating well.”

Gi Taeyeon only picked up his chopsticks after Soohyun swallowed.

“I’m really not burned.”

“Eat slow and lots. Still a kid—gotta grow.”

I’m grown… Grumbling inwardly, Soohyun grabbed tangsuyuk, topping it with sauce-soaked cabbage, blowing to cool it before eating. Onions or carrots were fine, but cabbage in tangsuyuk sauce was new and surprisingly perfect.

“Tangsuyuk’s great. Try it, Director. You too, Uncle. Why just jjajangmyeon?”

“Kgh! Cough, cough. Phew, thanks.”

Eating so fast, Kim Jipil covered his mouth, coughing, then chugged a new water bottle. Emptying it in one go, he set it down, glancing at Soohyun.

“How’s it taste?”

“Really good. I get why you recommended it.”

“Haha! Knew it’d suit you.”

Thumbs-up, Soohyun topped his jjajangmyeon with tangsuyuk, eating in one bite. His chopstick work and manners were impeccably neat.

How’s that small mouth so tidy? And where’s all that food going?

To Kim Jipil, who did physical work, it wasn’t that much. But compared to similar-sized omegas or betas, Soohyun ate well.

From the first company dinner Gi Taeyeon brought him to, Kim Jipil found Soohyun fascinating.

Director treats him like a kid.

To Kim Jipil, Soohyun was a kid—still chubby-cheeked, how could he not be?

But kid or not, he hadn’t expected Gi Taeyeon to act this way. He should’ve known when Seo Jihwan kept sighing. Anyone close to Gi Taeyeon would react similarly seeing this up close.

Who’d guess the Director would play caretaker?

Never thought himself clueless, but he was blind here. Offering water at a mumble of “hot,” carrying a grown guy—had he anticipated, he wouldn’t be this shocked.

No, only the manager would’ve seen it coming.

The Gi Taeyeon he knew would laugh at someone floundering with hot food—or even writhing in flames.

Life brings surprises.

This office proved it. Beyond loans, pulling senior Seowoo desk workers—manager-level—to fill seats was wild enough, and now he was eating jjajangmyeon to keep the vibe.

His dating’s shocking, but with Soohyun, I should be grateful. Vowing to stay composed, Kim Jipil ate tangsuyuk. Racing to deliver it hot was worth it.

“By the way, heard that news?”

Might as well keep the mood with a topic Soohyun might like. He needed words to ease the unease of Gi Taeyeon’s unfamiliar behavior.

“What news?”

“About the construction in your village.”

“Heard it’s delayed a year.”

Soohyun answered after swallowing.

It wasn’t quite a delay—more ambiguous. He’d learned later, but redevelopment often spanned years.

Still, it should’ve started by now…

Seoul grandpa said summer was the start date, but somehow it got pushed back. Gi Taeyeon said it wasn’t deliberate, but Soohyun couldn’t verify.

Construction’s still planned, so…

The delay was nice. He could visit a few more times before it began.

“Reminds me of hauling that jangdokdae from there. Been ages—felt good.”

“Thanks to you and the uncles. You helped organize it in Seoul too.”

“Pfft, thinking back, since then…”

“Hm?”

“No, nothing. Eat—don’t let it swell.”

Kim Jipil grinned, bowing to his jjajangmyeon. Soohyun, watching him bend deeply, smiled proudly for no reason.

“What’re you staring at?”

Annoyed by the gaze, Gi Taeyeon nudged Soohyun’s sneaker with his toe.

Can’t be blunt with Uncle here, right? Talking about someone present was rude, so Soohyun deflected obviously.

“Looking at the tangsuyuk. Gonna try making it. Eat before it cools, Director.”

Picking the biggest tangsuyuk for Gi Taeyeon’s bowl, he got a narrowed brow in return. Soohyun turned away shamelessly.

🍑

“When’re you fessing up?”

“About what?”

Setting down a paper box, Soohyun turned to Gi Taeyeon. The man tilted his head crookedly, furrowing his brows. His sharp lips twisted right after.

“When Kim Jipil’s gone, our Fuzz-face’ll be real sad.”

Only then did Soohyun realize why Gi Taeyeon had been frowning until they left the office. Excited about their next stop after Seonje Capital, he hadn’t noticed, but staring at Uncle must’ve rubbed him wrong.

“Oh, that.”

Thinking that far, something else slipped out instead of an answer.

“Oh, that?”

Gi Taeyeon echoed his mumble, his tone dripping with displeasure, but somehow it lifted Soohyun’s mood. He pulled the grumpy man toward—not the sofa—but the rug beneath it, as usual.

“Couldn’t say with Jipil-uncle there, but I was just curious. And I only looked for a sec.”

“What’s so curious you’re staring at another alpha like that?”

“When it’s just us, it feels like Seowoo’s director’s office, but seeing Uncle eat jjajangmyeon there gave it loan-office vibes. That’s why I looked. You know, in movies, loan sharks eat jjajangmyeon in dingy offices. Maybe ‘cause Uncle was hunched over, it felt like watching a film. The setting was way off my imagination, though.”

Gi Taeyeon’s tone was openly sarcastic, not hiding his irritation, but Soohyun chattered brightly. Knowing it was jealousy made his heart soar.

“I’ve eaten with you in the director’s office plenty, but never with other uncles, so it hit different. That’s why I looked, curious. But saying Uncle made it feel like a loan office in front of him would be rude.”

Seeing Kim Jipil at Seonje Capital, he must dabble in loans and gang work too, but that wasn’t a kind thing to say.

“So I couldn’t fess up and said I was looking at the tangsuyuk. Not a total lie—I was thinking what goes into that flavor.”

Part of why he missed Gi Taeyeon’s mood was puzzling over the sauce recipe.

“You’re still hung up on that? You know I’m not interested in other alphas. Never was—why would that change?”

“Ignoring other guys is a given.”

“You better not eye other omegas either.”

Bluntly laying down the law, Soohyun drew a disbelieving huff from Gi Taeyeon. He laughed, incredulous.

“When have I ever looked at another omega besides you?”

“True, but since you said it, I’m laying it out too. I’m not kidding—I won’t let it slide if you meet other omegas.”

“Yesss, don’t let it slide.”

Soohyun finally pulled over the box from the table. Desserts from a café they’d stopped by. Opening the handle revealed a glossy peach and two cakes. Summer must explain why peach desserts were everywhere lately.

“Let’s share.”

“You cutting?”

“Want to, Director?”

“Think I’d do better than my baby.”

Chuckling, the man grabbed the mini plastic knife from the box, slicing the peach into perfect quarters. Meanwhile, Soohyun dashed to the kitchen for forks and plates.

“Wow, pretty.”

As Soohyun tried to place half a peach on Gi Taeyeon’s plate, the man waved it off, taking just one of the four slices. That left Soohyun with three. The neatly cut peach was so perfectly ripe that its flesh glowed a soft pink, and instead of a pit, it was filled with yogurt.

“They said the white stuff’s yogurt. Green? Greek? Something like that. It’s a dessert you eat chilled, so it might feel cold at first.”

Even though they’d gone to the café together, Soohyun rattled off the staff’s explanation.

Gi Taeyeon never skipped a place Soohyun wanted to visit. Department store food halls, markets, flower nurseries, quaintly decorated cafés—he went everywhere. Thanks to that, Soohyun roamed freely with him whenever time allowed, but at cafés, nine times out of ten, they took food to go.

Most cafés were small, and the chairs were often too uncomfortable, so eating at home was better. But lately, he’d heard about big, pretty cafés popping up, so he planned to check one out next time.

“The name was… Momo or something Japanese. Why use foreign names and confuse people? The word ‘peach’ exists for a reason.”

It was lucky if menus were in Korean. Some places listed names and ingredients entirely in English, making them hard to read. Soohyun wasn’t shy about asking, but he figured it’d be tough for elders.

“Oh, sure.”

Chattering away, Soohyun obediently opened his mouth. Gi Taeyeon speared a yogurt-filled peach slice with a fork and fed it to him. Maybe the chill had faded on the way home—it wasn’t as cold as expected. And it was way tastier than he’d imagined.

“Delicious. Try it, Director.”

“This feels like it’s meant to be drizzled. Want me to pour?”

Gi Taeyeon tapped a stick of honey, asking. Soohyun shook his head.

“Nope, I’m good. I don’t like drizzling fruit with honey or sugar. I’d rather eat it plain—don’t like extra flavors. And this peach is ripe. It’s sweet and tasty without honey.”

Plus, granola lined the bottom, perfect to pair with it.

Soohyun examined the peach slices in his bowl. They’d removed the pit, filled it with yogurt, and frozen it. Fifteen thousand won seemed steep—must be a huge markup. Making it at home would be way cheaper.

“Got peaches, so I’ll try making it. Tasty but too pricey. Pitting might be tricky, but you’ll do it, right, Director?”

“Working your lover like that?”

“When else would I work you? Not eating more? It’s good. Or want me to wash a peach from the fridge?”

“Got peaches right here—why eat more?”

Gi Taeyeon reached out, brazenly kneading Soohyun’s butt. Soohyun scrunched his nose.

“Don’t say stuff like that.”

Why compare a person’s body to food?

Now that I think about it, it’s been a while.

About to say he’d eat the peaches alone if Gi Taeyeon kept talking like that, Soohyun realized it’d been quite some time since they’d been intimate. Counting back, it was over a week.

Why hasn’t he…? Should I start cooking him stamina food?

Ignoring the rude hand groping his butt, Soohyun glanced down. A clear outline showed under the jet-black suit pants. Nothing seemed wrong… Even when he was carried at the office today, he’d felt something firm.

“Staring at my dick, Soohyun?”

Caught staring too intently, Gi Taeyeon called him out bluntly. Though it was more teasing than scolding, laced with amusement.

“It’s my lover’s dick, so I looked.”

Far from embarrassed, Soohyun answered clearly. Staring at a stranger’s groin was perverted, but Gi Taeyeon wasn’t a stranger—he was his lover. And according to him, lovers could sneak a peek at each other’s dicks.

“Wanna say hi after so long?”

Gi Taeyeon let go of his butt, moving to his pants, asking. After a moment’s thought, Soohyun shook his head.

“Not now—later.”

“Why later?”

“Gotta eat this quick.”

The cake with whipped cream and sliced peaches could wait in the fridge, but the yogurt-filled peach needed to be finished now. Back in the fridge, it’d get mushy.

“No thoughts of eating with another mouth?”

Gi Taeyeon asked with a sly grin. Another mouth? Soohyun didn’t catch the exact meaning, but it was clearly sexual.

“Joking with food sends you to hell.”

“Not joking with food, and I’m headed there anyway.”

“Don’t say that. It upsets me. Anyway, I’m eating this first.”

“Lover’s dick losing to a peach?”

Soohyun scrunched his nose again at the narrowed, teasing eyes.

“It’s about not wasting food—not your dick losing to a peach.”

He rarely bought fruit since it meant driving to the mart, but Soohyun loved it. Among summer fruits, he preferred peaches over grapes, though their short shelf life meant he only got them occasionally.

But Seoul had easy access—drive anywhere, and fruit was available. A few days ago, shopping with Gi Taeyeon, they’d bought mystic peaches.

Still, no matter how much he loved fruit, it couldn’t compare to his lover. Comparing genitals to fruit was weird no matter how he thought about it.

“Saving the tasty stuff, then?”

I don’t save tasty stuff… Thinking that, Soohyun speared a peach and popped it into his mouth. Cool and sweet, it was refreshing.

“When’re you meeting Kang Yiseon?”

Dropping the innuendos, Gi Taeyeon asked normally.

“He booked some tea, so we’re meeting at three.”

“Staying for dinner?”

“Haven’t talked details. He said he’s coming to Seoul, and I got excited, blabbing until we barely set a time.”

Tomorrow was his meeting with Kang Yiseon. Soohyun thought Yiseon disliked Seoul since he stayed home alone when Seoul grandpa had business here, but apparently not. Already excited for the reunion.

“Might not be back early…”

Finishing the last peach, Soohyun cut a cake edge, glancing at Gi Taeyeon’s mood. He recalled how Gi Taeyeon left him alone during grandpa calls but kept interrupting Yiseon’s.

Yiseon’s not even an alpha—why’s he wary?

Liking Yiseon for not being an alpha would be worse, but why guard against someone who wasn’t even an alpha?

Still, Soohyun always finished his calls steadfastly. If he cared about Gi Taeyeon’s mood, he wouldn’t have called at all.

“Don’t rush back—stay out late.”

Trying to hint he might stay for dinner, Soohyun was stunned by Gi Taeyeon’s unexpected reply. His round eyes widened at the unforeseen kindness.

“Can I stay out late?”

“Have fun. I probably won’t be home tomorrow anyway.”

At that, his already wide eyes grew bigger.

“Why?”

“Busy, what else.”

“You’re not… getting into fights, right?”

“Fights, he says.”

Gi Taeyeon scoffed as if it were a bad joke.

“Don’t worry about nonsense and sleep. Can’t promise, but I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

Busier in summer? Last winter was relaxed, so maybe this season was hectic.

Instead of prying, Soohyun nodded. The whipped cream melting on his tongue mixed with peach, creating sweetness.

🍑

“Wow, so pretty.”

Soohyun’s eyes widened. Sipping tangy orange juice and chatting with Kang Yiseon, a staff member with a gentle voice set a tray on the table. The tiered, staircase-like tray was striking, but the desserts—each cute and delicate—stole his attention instantly.

“It’s hot, so be careful.”

“Thanks.”

Eyes sparkling as he admired the desserts, the staff poured tea. Only after they left did Yiseon speak, a calm smile curling his lips.

“Like it? Knew you love desserts, so I picked this place.”

“Yeah. Just looking, I can tell it’ll all be delicious. The juice is sweet-tart and amazing. And it’s so pretty.”

Thanks to Gi Taeyeon, he was used to dining at hotels or fancy restaurants—though home-cooked meals were still best—but this was new. Since moving to Seoul, he’d gotten into hunting for tasty desserts, but he hadn’t expected this.

Gotta come back with Director.

Even if Gi Taeyeon wasn’t big on desserts, one word, and he’d tag along. He probably hadn’t done this either, so it’d be even better together.

Lately, Soohyun understood his father’s words about thinking of family first when experiencing something new. Wanting to share everything with loved ones was spot-on.

“Good. No need to eat in order—pick what you want.”

“Hmm, first time here, so I’ll follow the staff’s recommendation.”

Yiseon chuckled, placing a scone on Soohyun’s plate. A small silver dish held jam. Gotta try a bit of each. Soohyun started with familiar strawberry jam, spreading it on the scone. Cutting bread with a knife still felt awkward, but the taste was worth it.

“Delicious. Try it, hyung.”

“Mm.”

Yiseon seemed right at home. Unlike Soohyun’s juice, he sipped non-alcoholic wine.

He’s gotta be from Seoul, right? Came with Seoul grandpa.

But he’d never seen Yiseon visit, so he wasn’t sure.

“Didn’t expect you to come to Seoul.”

Eating a plain scone, Yiseon wet his throat with wine, letting out a soft groan.

“It’s fine sometimes.”

Sometimes fine? Not other times? The vague reply sparked questions, but Soohyun didn’t dig. He knew little about Yiseon and Seoul grandpa’s work, and it might be personal—like health issues. Prying would be rude.

“I see. Oh, is Seoul grandpa doing well? When’s the move?”

“Teacher’s fine. House is ready, but construction’s delayed, so probably not till next spring. Seems he’s grown fond of the neighbors. I feel at ease there too.”

“Other grandpas seem like they’ll stay longer too. Home’s the best.”

“Yeah. Come visit before then.”

Soohyun nodded. He’d planned to stay a few days before construction started. Youngest grandpa was minding the store, so he owed him too.

Last time, he’d made a day trip to the village, ordering stock for the store’s dwindling supplies. Several folks planned to move slowly, so he had to keep things stocked until then.

“Not long ‘cause of your lover, though.”

As Soohyun popped the last scone piece into his mouth, Yiseon’s words made him tilt his head.

“Why the Director?”

“…Doesn’t he hate going to the countryside?”

“Never seemed to mind. Maybe ‘cause we come back same day?”

Soohyun visited grandpas when Gi Taeyeon was busy, so there was no liking or disliking involved.

Moving a stuffed croissant sandwich to his plate, Soohyun paused. Something Gi Taeyeon disliked flashed through his mind.

“Actually, he might not like me talking to you. You’re not even an alpha—don’t know why.”

“Not about traits. Probably ‘cause I’m your age…”

Muttering softly, unclear if to himself or Soohyun, Yiseon set aside his wine and sipped an Americano mug. Despite the heat, he’d ordered hot coffee.

“Why care if you’re my age?”

“Dunno… Possessiveness?”

Not a mumble—Yiseon answered directly.

“Alphas have strong possessiveness, exclusivity. Elders are just old folks, no threat, but I’m close to your age, so he might care.”

“Even though you’re not an alpha?”

“Traits don’t matter.”

Yiseon’s brow twitched faintly.

“It’s about fixation for alphas. Doesn’t matter if it’s another alpha, beta, or omega.”

Traits don’t matter? Soohyun had only warned Gi Taeyeon off omegas…

His face grew serious. From now on, he’d expand the ban to all traits, not just omegas.

“So I thought he’d hate me meeting you.”

Soohyun looked at Yiseon. Recalling the day he told Gi Taeyeon about the plan, he hadn’t sensed dislike—just a weighing expression.

“No. Even today, he said stay out late.”

“He said that?”

“Yeah.”

“Weird. Didn’t seem the type…”

Knowing Gi Taeyeon’s handsome face didn’t mean a nice personality, Soohyun munched his croissant sandwich. Packed with ham, cheese, and arugula, it tasted fresh thanks to cherry tomatoes.

“Soohyun, just in case.”

Yiseon’s worried tone made Soohyun look up. Rubbing his cheek as if unsure about speaking, Yiseon slowly opened his mouth.

“If that man ever gets controlling, locks you up, or obsesses too much, call me. Got it?”

“Director treats me really well.”

He did bad things, sure, but never to Soohyun. He defended Gi Taeyeon quickly.

“I know you’re happy, but I’m just worried.”

“Worried?”

Yiseon fell silent. Biting his lip, he set down his glass with a resolved look, determined to speak.

“Worried you might be mistaken.”

Soohyun set down his fork, focusing on Yiseon. He wouldn’t say anything harmful, so Soohyun needed to hear him out.

“You’re still young. He’s older. Not saying that’s your case, but young folks often get… ruined by older guys’ tricks.”

Yiseon chose his words carefully.

“Thirty-something guys have a hundred snakes in their guts, and he’s an alpha doing dangerous stuff. Seducing a kid’s no big deal. And you’re an omega, so pheromones might cloud your feelings.”

Soohyun had heard this from grandpas too. He’d thought it over seriously himself.

“Hyung.”

He called Yiseon’s name. The advice didn’t offend him. Yiseon had known him longer than Gi Taeyeon and was a good man. Soohyun knew his words came from concern.

“My feelings for Director aren’t a mistake.”

He had to be clear.

“I only went to middle school, didn’t do high school, so I’m less social than peers, but I’m not so clueless I don’t know my own heart.”

Yiseon, lips moving, closed his mouth.

“Who doesn’t know their first love?”

“…”

“Everyone feels love as love.”

No emotion was less obvious than love. Unlike joy, sadness, or pain, it didn’t stand out clearly, so you didn’t always notice it. But it softly filled the heart. Like suddenly feeling love one day without reason.

For Soohyun, it was grandpa’s hug after a scolding, the flower ring his father made, Bokshil’s warmth burrowing into his hand.

He didn’t always register it, but feeling love in small moments meant it was the heart’s biggest emotion. Not fleeting—just not always urgent in daily life.

Realizing his feelings for Gi Taeyeon came because love had that glow.

Never having felt romantic love, he hadn’t noticed its start, but what Seo Soohyun felt for Gi Taeyeon was clear, unmistakable love. The difference from grandpa, father, or Bokshil was the occasional flutter.

“It’s not ‘cause he’s the first alpha I met or his pheromones.”

Soohyun was certain.

“No matter if he’s the first alpha or has strong pheromones, he’s lived a life opposite mine. I wouldn’t just fall for anyone.”

That snowy winter day, if the alpha at the store wasn’t Gi Taeyeon, he wouldn’t have fallen in love.

“I just like Director enough that it’s okay.”

He fell for Gi Taeyeon—the man wearing boots bigger than Bokshil.

“If I didn’t like him, I wouldn’t live here.”

To Seo Soohyun, love was like a plant. Changing every year, every moment—sometimes plain, sometimes blooming beautifully, always rooted in place.

And plants never lose vitality. They may wilt, but they drop seeds, continuing forever. That was Soohyun’s heart.

Reading conviction in his steady gaze, Yiseon asked with an odd expression.

“What’s so great about him?”

Soohyun didn’t hesitate.

“Nothing specific—just that he’s Director.”

Falling for Gi Taeyeon was the sum of every moment together.

Eating Soohyun’s cooking without complaint, sleeping in an old country house, driving him to the market, handling Bokshil’s funeral, making a garden, planting a flowering tree—all Gi Taeyeon’s doing.

If it wasn’t him that day, Soohyun wouldn’t have had those moments or ended up loving him.

In the end, he was captivated by everything Gi Taeyeon—his actions, his heart—had done.

“…I see.”

Yiseon nodded slowly.

“If my words upset you, I’m sorry. Sorry for judging your feelings too.”

Soohyun’s eyes widened at the apology.

“It’s okay. I know it’s ‘cause you care. Don’t worry.”

Knowing how much grandpas and Yiseon cared, he had no reason to be offended.

“Soohyun, you’re more grown-up than me in some ways.”

Yiseon smiled faintly.

“Feels like we got too serious for a reunion.”

“No way. I like talking like this with you.”

Handing Yiseon a cake topped with pretty strawberries, Soohyun grinned brightly. Yiseon’s lips curled slightly, extending his plate. His relaxed expression made Soohyun giggle again.

🍑

“I’m staying nearby. Wanna talk more and crash if it’s cool?”

Looking up at the dark sky, Soohyun lowered his gaze at Yiseon’s voice. Seoul’s lack of stars was a shame.

“Worried it’s tough with that guy?”

He’d never stayed out overnight, but since Gi Taeyeon said to stay late, asking about tomorrow might get a yes. He’d mentioned possibly not coming home too.

But Soohyun shook his head without much thought.

“Director might not be home, so I’d better sleep there.”

“Not lonely alone? Feels like you’d have fun with me…”

Parting with Yiseon felt reluctant, but he couldn’t leave the house empty.

“I’ll be lonely after hanging out, but I don’t wanna leave it empty.”

Looking at Yiseon, Soohyun continued.

“It’s the home I share with Director.”

So he had to return.

It was a space shared with someone he loved.

🍑

Soohyun turned the car after some thought. He’d meant to head to Hannam-dong, but talking about Yiseon and Gi Taeyeon stirred a strange urge to visit the first house he’d stayed in. Plus, his old bed was still there—sleeping in that room after so long wouldn’t be bad.

Director said he might not be back… Sleeping alone’ll feel nostalgic, fun.

Reluctant to part with Yiseon, he’d called three hours ago to report a late return.

— Alright, have fun as long as you want.

You’re not really getting into fights, right?

— What, wanna watch one?

His voice sounded rough, so Soohyun teased, and a sly question came back. Like he’d stage a fight if Soohyun said yes.

Soohyun scrunched his nose slightly.

Why watch that? Try not to get mixed up in stuff like that.

— Send the boys instead?

Yeah.

Hesitant since it’d put others in danger, it seemed like a joke, so Soohyun spoke honestly. Even if Gi Taeyeon did bad things, Soohyun loved him and didn’t want him hurt.

— Guess I will.

I didn’t mean it literally. When’re you back?

— Probably not tonight. Don’t go scampering around ‘cause your lover’s not home—stay put.

I don’t scamper. Gonna talk with Yiseon a bit more, then head back. Even if you’re busy, nap at least. See you tomorrow.

— Fuzz-face.

Yeah?

The line cut briefly.

— Nothing. See you tomorrow.

His tone was a bit off, but with Yiseon waiting, Soohyun ended the call as Gi Taeyeon urged. After, he hung out with Yiseon a few more hours, now heading home.

“Why’d he call me that? Mad I’m out late with hyung?”

Maybe he’d called but backed off, thinking he couldn’t go back on his word.

Brushing it off, Soohyun drove. Guarding the house alone without Gi Taeyeon was a first since his confinement, but he wasn’t worried about feeling upset or lonely.

The home with Gi Taeyeon was always a cozy, safe space for Soohyun.

🍑

“Huh?”

Opening the door, Soohyun instinctively sniffed. Familiar pheromones at home weren’t odd, but the thick, palpable intensity flooding the house was.

Why’re Director’s pheromones so strong? Puzzled, he slipped off his sneakers, spotting carelessly strewn dress shoes. Familiar ones.

Said he wouldn’t be home… Lied to tease me?

Better than being alone, so excited, he crossed the hallway from the entrance to the living room.

“Seo Soohyun.”

“Director, you’re ho—… Ah!”

“Why’re you here?”

The man strode forward, grabbing his wrist, voice grating. The suppressed, feral tone wasn’t entirely unfamiliar, but Soohyun slowly met Gi Taeyeon’s gaze. The man glaring wasn’t scary. Yet the pheromones pouring out, crushing his whole body, made every fuzz on his face stand on end.

With it came instinctive realization.

“Told you to stay out late.”

“Rut?”

Soohyun asked, knowing full well. He’d been through Gi Taeyeon’s rut before, but this overwhelming pressure was incomparable, his lips spilling unfiltered words.

The suppressant difference is bigger than I thought.

Now he understood why Gi Taeyeon hadn’t treated his last rut like a real one.

Ignoring the naive question, Gi Taeyeon didn’t answer. Tightening his grip until Soohyun flinched, he barely adjusted his strength, muttering curses.

“I’ll send a guy—go sleep in Hannam-dong.”

“No.”

Soohyun grabbed the wrist trying to pull away.

“Your rut—why would I sleep somewhere else?”

“Gonna handle it, then?”

Gi Taeyeon’s lips twisted.

“Told you last time—I can handle your rut.”

Gi Taeyeon, jaw clenched, swept back sweat-soaked hair, finally letting Soohyun’s hand bite into his.

“That time, I was on suppressants, so you were fine.”

“…”

“Spoiling you, you don’t know how scary alphas are.”

Soohyun wasn’t ignorant of alpha dangers. He’d faced a crazed, drugged man before. But whether that was worse or something else, he wasn’t scared now. It just felt like an inevitable moment had arrived.