I’m Not Your Fated Guide, But… Chapter 13.1 - #Afterword

Now, I’m holding cake boxes in my arms. Not one, not two, but three.

How did I end up like this…?

“Won Yoogyeol Guide, Gye Joonmin Esper, congratulations.”

“I heard your matching rate is 98%? Wow, you broke a new record.”

“Wow, mutual imprinting. Amazing.”

As soon as I arrived at work, congratulatory remarks poured in from all directions. Every step I took, about three people would talk to me. Clapping, cheering, whistling; it was a complete commotion. At this rate, they might set off firecrackers, and even have fireworks at night.

Everyone I met was busy giving me presents. The items were all the same. Cake from the cafe on the first floor. Did they all plan this? Are they doing this on purpose?

At this point, I really need to investigate if the cafe owner has some sort of, uh, con, con, con, what was it, definitely not community… Anyway, something that starts with ‘con’. But the cakes here are delicious. Hmm, maybe they’re giving them as gifts purely because they’re tasty…

I glanced sideways at Gye Joonmin beside me. He was holding five cake boxes with an indifferent expression.

Seriously, isn’t he embarrassed? Unlike me, Gye Joonmin didn’t seem fazed at all. As expected, the shameless guy who rubs his lips on people’s faces at any time is different.

Eight whole cakes. When are we going to eat all of this? My vision went dark. We can’t even eat them as side dishes with rice… Still, considering the sincerity of the gifts, we have to eat them all.

“What time are you going to have lunch?”

“Around 12?”

“Want to meet at the cafeteria entrance at 12?”

“Okay.”

After making a lunch appointment with Gye Joonmin, I headed to my office. My seat, hidden behind the partition in the distance, came into view. I have a bad feeling about this…

My premonition was right. My seat wasn’t spared. Two cake boxes, two bouquets, and one flower basket were neatly placed on my desk.

Ha, what is life…

Wait, what’s this? I picked up the envelope tucked into the flower basket. ‘Congrats on Pairing’ was written on the outside. The neat handwriting was familiar. That crazy bastard Gye Joonmin, did he?

I opened the envelope and a card came out. ‘Congratulations’ was written on the top line, and ‘Achieving World Ranking 1st in Matching Rate’ on the second.

That son of a bitch…

While I was trembling, holding the card, Moon Youngsu stealthily approached. He peeked at the card and stirred things up.

“Wow, you guys have really gotten close. A remarkable development.”

“Shut up.”

“Hey, hey, these days the Espers can’t even make eye contact with you.”

“Huh? Really? Is it because I’m too strong?”

“……”

Even I thought I went too far after saying that. I should apologize quickly.

“Sorry. But why?”

“Why, you ask? Because they’re scared of Esper Gye Joonmin.”

I frowned at the absurd remark.

“What nonsense are you talking about?”

“Don’t you know he glares at anyone who just talks to you?”

I scoffed spontaneously. Even Gye Joonmin wouldn’t go that far, would he?

“Gye Joonmin would never do that with his personality.”

“Uh, um, right… Let’s just say that…”

Moon Youngsu nodded with a bitter expression. He didn’t look convinced at all.

Gye Joonmin keeping an eye on other Espers because of me? I couldn’t even imagine it. It was impossible with my poor imagination.

Gye Joonmin’s attitude remained the same even after he confessed his feelings to me.

Well, he can’t directly hit me, and he occasionally says embarrassing things, and keeps rubbing his lips on my face… Wait, doesn’t that mean he’s changed?

Confusion flooded in. Did he change? Did he really change?

I spent the morning agonizing, clutching my head. When I finally came to my senses and looked at the clock, it was 11:58. Oh no, I’m going to be late. I jumped up from my seat.

“I’m having lunch separately today.”

When I informed Moon Youngsu of my lunch plans, his annoying eyebrow-raising technique returned. So annoying.

Perhaps because it was a busy time, I had to let three elevators pass. Thinking it was no use, I headed for the emergency stairs.

Since my knees are very precious, I’ve only used the stairs to go up. But today was an exception. Gye Joonmin is a perfectionist, so he would definitely be waiting before the appointed time.

It’s definitely not because I’m worried about Gye Joonmin waiting. It’s because he’ll make a fuss if I’m late, that’s why.

Panting, I flung open the emergency exit door on the first basement floor. I immediately spotted him leaning against the hallway wall. He had a disgruntled expression as if he was carrying all the complaints and dissatisfaction in the world. If even that looks cute, then I’m hopeless.

But what’s he so unhappy about? Oh, is it because I’m late? I have to go quickly before he throws a fit.

At that moment, Gye Joonmin turned towards me. As if he had never been sullen, he smiled brightly as soon as he saw me. A pretty guy smiling prettily, it’s hopeless.

It felt strange. Gye Joonmin smiling like he owns the world because of me. What, is he doing this on purpose to make me feel touched?

I asked Gye Joonmin as he ran towards me.

“Did you wait long?”

“No. I just got here.”

“Sorry. The elevator was crowded.”

“So you took the stairs?”

“How did you know?”

“You just came out of the emergency exit.”

“Ah.”

“What are you going to do if an idiot also has a bad memory?”

This fucking bastard, I’m so pissed…

“Gye Joonmin.”

“Yes?”

“How dare you call your Uju hyung an idiot?”

“Uh, uh? S, sorry.”

Gye Joonmin apologized with a look of realization. I decided to gently scold him.

“Uju hyung is hurt.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Is your Uju hyung an idiot?”

“I’m really sorry.”

“You son of a bitch, why don’t you deny that I’m not an idiot?”

“Ah.”

Apart from feeling sorry, it seems he can’t lie. Annoyed, I hit the back of his knee with my knee. Gye Joonmin lost his balance and staggered.

If it were like before, a fist would have flown to my chin by now, but he just quietly watched my reaction. He looked like a puppy acting cute to its owner after causing trouble. You little bastard, I’ll forgive you because you’re cute.

It was more amazing the more I looked. To think I’d see this guy groveling to me. I even feel like I’ve been witnessing it quite often these days.

I need to live a long life. Then I’ll be able to see even more of this. I must live long.

“Buy me lunch as an apology.”

“Okay. I’ll buy you coffee too.”

“Are you saying the obvious as if it’s not obvious?”

“Is there anything else you would like to have?”

“I’ll think about it.”

“Please feel free to tell me anytime.”

Gye Joonmin bowed beside me. He even rubbed his hands together like a fly.

Passersby chuckled as they looked at us. I was embarrassed.

Today’s cafeteria lunch menu was bibimbap. Gye Joonmin and I sat facing each other with bibimbap on our trays.

“Hey, give me your fried egg. I’m going to eat two.”

“Here.”

I was just saying it casually, but Gye Joonmin obediently offered me his fried egg.

“Are you really giving it to me?”

“Yes.”

“Can I really eat it?”

“Are you not full? Should I get more?”

“How? It’s one per person.”

“I can use my ability.”

As if he wasn’t joking, Gye Joonmin abruptly stood up. Startled, I grabbed his wrist.

“Are you crazy?”

An S-rank Esper wasting his ability just to get another fried egg? Is he insane?

Shaking my head, I returned the fried egg to him. No, I tried to return it. But he immediately handed the fried egg back to me.

“I told you to eat it.”

“How can I eat bibimbap without an egg?”

“By looking at me?”

“Aaack! You crazy bastard, stop saying such things.”

Goosebumps erupted all over my body. I scratched my arm and picked up my spoon. I decided to just eat both since I might hear something horrifying again if I returned the fried egg. I ended up enjoying the luxury of having two fried eggs with one bibimbap. How extravagant.

Gye Joonmin ate his bibimbap without a fried egg deliciously. This kid, next time I make bibimbap at home, I’ll put five fried eggs on top for him. And when I make kimchi jjigae, I’ll add three cans of tuna.

What else should I make for him? I pondered over the menu while diligently finishing my bibimbap. It tasted twice as good because there were two eggs.

Gye Joonmin had already finished eating and was watching me with his chin resting on his right hand. The corners of his lips were slightly raised. He was looking pleased.

Ah, I know what he’s thinking.

Young Gye Joonmin told me he’d make a lot of money and buy me lots of meat. He must be doing this because of that promise. Thanks to that, I even got locked up in a Korean beef prison…

For me, it was only three and a half months ago, but for him, it was a memory from nine years ago. Even though a long time has passed and it could have faded, he still remembers it. Our Mr. Gye Joonmin is overflowing with loyalty.

After scraping up the last remaining vegetables, I put down my spoon. While I was returning my tray, Gye Joonmin brought me water. Obedient and pleasant to see.

As I was drinking the water, a thought suddenly crossed my mind.

“Gye Joonmin.”

“Yes.”

“You called Uju ‘hyung,’ right?”

“Yes.”

“Then shouldn’t you also call me ‘hyung’?”

He coughed loudly while drinking water. Water must have gone up his nose because he even teared up a little. It seems even S-rank Espers can’t train their esophagus and trachea. What, even Espers are no different.

Clicking my tongue, I patted his back. Every time I did, Gye Joonmin groaned.

“What nonsense are you suddenly talking about?”

When his coughing subsided a little, he asked, wiping the water off his mouth with the back of his hand. That was also unnecessarily pretty. He choked, but why does he look as refreshing as a sports drink commercial model? When I choke, water comes pouring out of my nose. The world is unfair.

“No, isn’t that how the family hierarchy works? You called him ‘hyung’.”

Gye Joonmin looked dumbfounded, as if he’d heard that the sun rises in the west. He had the exact same expression when I suggested we use two slippers in the bathroom.

“You crazy bastard, my birthday is six months earlier than yours. Don’t create a messed-up family tree.”

“Family hierarchy doesn’t depend on such trivial things as dates. The mental aspect is important.”

“Why are you suddenly spouting nonsense after eating so well?”

“Yoogyeol, try calling me ‘hyung’.”

“No.”

Gye Joonmin shook his head. He couldn’t have been more resolute.

“Try it. Try it, I said.”

“Absolutely not. What nonsense is this guy talking about, the one who was getting ultrasound pictures when I was taking my 100-day photos?”

It was actually a meaningless joke. But Gye Joonmin’s stubborn refusal made me feel defiant.

Let’s see, let’s assess the situation. A straightforward approach definitely won’t work. Alright, then I’ll use a trick.

Even if it seems petty, it can’t be helped. When people want something, they tend to resort to any means necessary. I’m going to hear him call me ‘hyung’ today.

“Really? You used to call me Uju hyung when you were little. But now you can’t? I’m really disappointed.”

I said dejectedly, making puppy-dog eyes. I didn’t forget to slump my shoulders weakly.

Gye Joonmin flinched at my change in attitude. He put his hand on his forehead.

“Ha, even though it’s bad acting…”

Who is this bastard to call my acting bad? The guy who flooded the drama viewer bulletin board with ‘ㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋㅋ’ dares to…? I was about to burst out, but I suppressed it and continued with my next line.

“It’s okay. What’s so important about calling me ‘hyung’… What’s the big deal…”

That’s it. I didn’t really expect it anyway. This guy has a bit of a fuddy-duddy side to him. Would such a guy call me ‘hyung’? I should just suggest we go get coffee.

“…Hyung.”

“What?”

Startled, I looked at Gye Joonmin. It was a very faint sound, almost inaudible. Naturally, I couldn’t help but doubt my ears. This must be an auditory hallucination, right? My eardrums must be malfunctioning.

“…Gyeol hyung.”

Gye Joonmin spoke through gritted teeth as if he were chewing on the words. Anyone would think he was calling his enemy’s name.

“Huh? Really, for real, this works?”

“…Yoogyeol hyung. Are you satisfied now?”

It was an attitude that said, “Just take it and leave me alone.” Wow, I even heard Gye Joonmin, who’s five months older than me, call me ‘hyung.’ The world has really improved a lot.

When I patted his back, saying he did well, he huffed. He seemed quite annoyed.

The problem is… he looks incredibly lovely like that. My rose-tinted glasses are working hard today as well. Seriously, shouldn’t he get paid too?

When we slowly walked towards the elevator, quite a few people were already gathered. It seemed like we would have to let at least two elevators pass.

I gestured towards the emergency stairs to Gye Joonmin. He nodded.

I led the way, and Gye Joonmin followed me up the stairs. He kept grumbling, which meant he was still upset. This kid, so petty.

Suddenly, an impulse arose. I decided to willingly surrender to that impulse. I stopped walking and turned towards Gye Joonmin.

Gye Joonmin looked up at me with a questioning expression. Ignoring his impertinent look, I reached out my hand. I gently smoothed his furrowed brow with my index finger. Just a simple touch with my fingertip, but Gye Joonmin’s face turned bright red. Thinking this was my chance, I cupped his flushed cheeks with both hands. They were hot.

“Wh, wh, what are you doing…”

He looked so cute, flustered and stuttering. I gently stroked his cheeks with my thumbs. They were soft. Even his skin texture is good. And why doesn’t he have any blemishes?

“What’s the problem with a hyung adoring his dongsaeng a little?”

“Y, y, you…”

I enjoyed the sight of a penta-lingual speaker instantly becoming a zero-lingual speaker for a moment. Then I remembered that our lunchtime was finite.

I removed my hands and started climbing the stairs again. I heard Gye Joonmin following behind me.

When I opened the door and looked back, Gye Joonmin’s face was a sight to behold. Anyone would think I had specifically punched his face. What’s with that, just because I touched his forehead and cheeks a little.

“Hey, can you do something about your complexion?”

“Shut up. It’s not something I can control.”

Gye Joonmin grumbled and headed to the cafe. I followed my sugar daddy.

We both ordered iced Americanos. For the record, I insist on iced Americano even if I freeze to death, but this bastard Gye Joonmin chooses intermittently depending on the weather. He’s weak and cowardly.

“Uh, owner, we didn’t order these?”

Cookies and scones came out even though we didn’t order them. When I pointed at them and asked, the owner smiled kindly.

“It’s a service.”

The service was excessive for ordering two iced Americanos. Isn’t the freebie bigger than the actual purchase?

I was about to decline, saying it was okay, but my eyes met the owner’s. Uh, this look is familiar. The orthopedic surgeon and dentist always looked at Gye Joonmin with this look.

But why…? Ah, the cakes. Right, the cakes.

The answer came quickly. The owner was looking at us with ardent eyes. It was the reaction of someone in love. The owner was already in love with us, who had made a significant contribution to his sales.

In the end, Gye Joonmin took the scones, and I took the cookies, and we left the cafe. It felt strange.

“I’m going to be a little late today.”

Gye Joonmin said after inhaling his iced Americano. After three sips, only ice remained. Such an impatient bastard.

“Why?”

“I have some work.”

“How late?”

“I think I’ll be back after 9.”

“Okay.”

At that moment, a vibration came from my pants pocket. I took out my smartphone and checked it; a text message had arrived. It said that the parcel delivery was complete.

It arrived today. Perfect timing. It was better that Gye Joonmin wasn’t home since I had to assemble it.

☁️

When I arrived home, a large box was placed at the entrance. It was a gift for Gye Joonmin. I dragged it inside, grunting.

Ha, I’m distressed and upset. If it were like before, I would’ve lifted this effortlessly. Muscle loss is truly scary. I need to work harder. From tomorrow, I’ll add one more set to every exercise.

I opened the box in the corner of the living room. First, I looked for the instructions. Fortunately, the instructions were placed in the most visible spot. Oh, good. Shall we begin?

However, the moment I unfolded the instructions, bewilderment washed over me. Wait, why are the instructions in English?

Right, this came from America. Still, in this day and age, shouldn’t there be at least one Korean manual? Isn’t this disrespectful to K-customers?

I encountered a difficulty right from the start. But what can I do? I have to try.

I spread out the parts and started working. I tried using a translator, but I wasn’t making any progress. Damn it, why isn’t Korean the universal language?

Frustrated, I searched the internet. Thankfully, I found a post by some kind soul explaining the assembly process with photos. I was so touched. Bless you. You’ve saved a life.

Thanks to the photos and explanations, I somehow managed to assemble the tripod and tray. Counterweight? What’s this again? How am I supposed to fix the lens? Why is the focus adjuster suddenly sticking out? Ha, my head is going to explode.

After struggling for a while, I heard the sound of someone entering the door code. What, what’s this?

Only two people in the world know the door code to this house. Since one of them is at home, that must be the other one.

I hurriedly checked the time. It wasn’t even 8 o’clock yet. Why is the guy who said he’d be back after 9 here now?

It was too late to hide it. And I couldn’t pretend I wasn’t doing anything because of its sheer size and presence. I should have dragged it to my room instead of assembling it in the living room because it was heavy. Muscle loss is this dangerous.

Still, I couldn’t just ignore him when he’s here. I quickly covered it with the box and rushed to the entrance. Gye Joonmin was taking off his shoes, pressing his heels with his toes, while holding large boxes in his arms.

“Y, y, you said you had urgent work?”

Gye Joonmin’s eyes widened at my question. He soon answered calmly, as if nothing had happened.

“Ah, right.”

“What are those?”

“Uh? Uh, just, some things.”

His evasive response was very suspicious. Normally, I would have pressed him further. However, since I was also doing something suspicious, I decided to pretend I didn’t notice.

“D, did you have d, dinner?”

“No, not yet. You?”

“I haven’t eaten either.”

“What were you doing?”

“Um, well, um… Ah, exercise. I couldn’t eat because I was exercising.”

“Hey, you should still eat even if you’re exercising.”

“I know. Go wash up quickly.”

I nudged Gye Joonmin’s back, guiding him towards the bathroom. Since the layout required turning a corner to enter the living room, nothing could be seen from the entrance or the bathroom. That was a relief.

After confirming that Gye Joonmin had entered the bathroom, I quickly moved the luggage to the third floor. Gye Joonmin is incredibly meticulous about cleanliness, so once he’s in the shower, it takes at least 30 minutes. I thought I might be able to pull off the perfect crime.

After hurriedly shoving everything onto the third floor, I went back down to the first floor and quickly started making kimchi jjigae. I generously emptied three cans of tuna into it.

I scooped rice, placed it on the table, and set out the side dishes. Just as I was placing the tuna kimchi jjigae on the table, Gye Joonmin came out of the bathroom.

His cheeks were flushed, perhaps from the warm shower. The water droplets dripping down his wet hair made me feel strange. It made me want to have bad thoughts… No, no. What kind of thoughts are these at the dinner table?

After we ate together, I went up to the third floor while Gye Joonmin was doing the dishes. Anxiously, I continued the assembly.

As expected, people exhibit superhuman strength when they’re pressed for time. I somehow managed to complete it.

I thought I’d never finish it even if I spent my whole life on it, but I did it. I did it! I really did it!

Overjoyed, I ran down the stairs. I wanted to show it to Gye Joonmin quickly. But where is this guy hiding? Why can’t I see him? This is another problem with having a big house.

After thoroughly searching every corner of the house, I found Gye Joonmin in the study. He seemed to have been opening the boxes he brought earlier, and he looked up, perhaps sensing my presence. He clearly looked flustered.

“What are you doing?”

“Uh? Just, you know.”

“What are those?”

“Ah, I bought some books.”

It seemed very suspicious, but I had more pressing matters. I beckoned Gye Joonmin to come over. He obediently came running to me.

I took Gye Joonmin’s hand and led him to the third floor. He didn’t resist and followed my lead.

Finally arriving on the third floor, I pointed to the astronomical telescope placed in front of the window with both hands. Gye Joonmin hesitated as he looked at it.

“Won Yoogyeol, you…”

“Hey, I broke my savings to buy this. Can you see how bent my back is?”

I exaggeratedly bent my back. Gye Joonmin cautiously approached the telescope. His hands trembled as he touched the body. At first, I thought it was my imagination, but he was convulsing as if he were taking a cold shower in minus 20-degree weather with a broken boiler – a personal experience. Damn that apartment!

Watching him from the side, I couldn’t help but laugh. This kid, getting acute hand tremors over something like this.

But that sight was also cute. If I could witness such a cute scene, I’d be willing to not only break my savings but also take out a loan. Not just a loan, I’d even be a guarantor… Hmm, no. I think I need some time to consider that.

“Thank you…”

Gye Joonmin said, gently stroking the objective lens. This kid, is he that happy?

Honestly, Gye Joonmin wasn’t so poor that he couldn’t buy an astronomical telescope like this. He’s a guy who’s rolling in money. If he wanted to, he had the financial power to pay in full for something worth thousands at any time.

But he probably didn’t have the mental space for it. For nine years, Gye Joonmin gave up on his dreams, sacrificed himself, and gave up many things. To search for Uju hyung…

“Do you like it?”

There was no need for that anymore. I wanted him to do whatever he wanted. If he had a dream, I wanted him to achieve it without hesitation.

“Yes.”

If I left him alone, he looked like he would take it to bed and hug it. If I had known he would like it this much, I would have bought it for him sooner. Since I was already spending money, I should have broken a couple more savings accounts.

“They say you can even see Jupiter’s moons or Saturn’s rings when the weather is clear.”

“…Saturn, you mean. Why would Mars have rings?”

“Sh, shut up. What’s so important about that?”

“You’re right. It’s not important at all.”

Gye Joonmin obediently nodded. A drop of water fell at his feet.

With a sense of foreboding, I examined Gye Joonmin’s face. His eyes were brimming with tears. He looked like he was about to burst into tears at the slightest touch.

“Crazy, are you about to cry again?”

“I’m not crying.”

“Turn off the faucet right now.”

I made a gesture towards Gye Joonmin as if turning off a faucet.

“Okay…”

Gye Joonmin nodded, then suddenly ran out the door. I stood there blankly at the unexpected turn of events.

What, what’s this? I told him not to cry, so is he going outside to cry? This kid, he looks tough, but he’s surprisingly sensitive. If I had known, I wouldn’t have been harsh and just told him to cry here. His crying face is pretty, it’s enjoyable to watch.

While I was debating whether to follow him or not, Gye Joonmin returned. He was holding boxes in his arms. Five boxes.

Gye Joonmin carefully placed the boxes on the floor.

“What are these?”

“Open them.”

I opened the top black box as instructed. Inside was a set of teacups and dessert plates. And it was a line that was hard to find domestically. It was dazzling, beyond breathtaking.

Surprised, I looked at Gye Joonmin. He gestured for me to open the rest.

What’s wrong with my hands? Why are they shaking like a stage 4 hand tremor patient? What does that make me, who criticized Gye Joonmin? But what can I do if they’re shaking?

I opened the red box, and a neatly arranged set of plates greeted me. The set was very comprehensive. There was a main plate, a salad plate, a soup plate, a bread plate, and even a butter plate. Ha, the yellow border drove me crazy. Its loveliness resembled Gye Joonmin.

A set of bowls came out of the box underneath. Uh, this is the one I put in my shopping cart and just drooled over. I tried to press the buy button several times, but I gave up after seeing the price. I’ll use two as rice bowls and the other two as dedicated ramen bowls. Wow, to think the day would come when I could enjoy such luxury.

The pasta plates in the other box were also amazing. The colorful patterns immediately caught my eye. Crazy, crazy… I unconsciously hugged the plates to my chest. My heart pounded.

It was touching to think that I would be using such beautiful, elegant, luxurious, refined, and sacred tableware after always using dog bowls or beggar’s tin cans. My eyes naturally welled up.

“Hey, Won Yoogyeol, are you crying?”

“I’m not crying. It’s because of dry eye, so don’t accuse me, you bastard.”

“If it’s dry eye, shouldn’t you have fewer tears?”

“Shut up. What do you know?”

“Is your tear faucet broken?”

“I told you to shut up.”

Gye Joonmin was in no position to criticize me either. His eyes and the tip of his nose were flushed.

We both started crying without a word. Gye Joonmin hugged the telescope, and I hugged the plate set, sobbing.

It was quite a sight.

☁️

I think we sobbed for quite a while. After we stopped crying, we sat side by side, looking out the window.

It was fortunate that tomorrow was the weekend. Otherwise, we both would have had to go to work with puffy eyes. Ah, I can vividly picture it. Me desperately making excuses, saying I ate ramen last night and slept, that’s why…

Gye Joonmin set up the telescope and looked through the lens with a fascinated face. Then he told me to take a look.

“Oh, I can really see Saturn’s rings.”

“…Right. Can you see it well?”

“Yes. It’s good that the weather is nice.”

“It’s been raining for the past few days, how come it’s only clear tonight?”

We had a meaningless conversation for a while. Really trivial things, things that wouldn’t affect our lives even if we didn’t know them.

I liked that. It felt unreal that we could be in the same space like this. At the same time, I was so grateful.

“Gye Joonmin.”

“Yes?”

“Um, about that. How did you re, realize you l, liked me?”

“I was a little confused at first. So I imagined you taking out ten pairs of shoes at the entrance.”

“Fuck, why are the conditions like that?”

Normally, people imagine holding hands or, k, kissing, don’t they? Is this guy really crazy?

“And I could forgive it all. At that moment, I understood my feelings perfectly.”

The explanation was perfectly Gye Joonmin level. Damn it, what’s so special about shoes?

You know what the bigger problem is? It’s me, who understood immediately after hearing this Gye Joonmin-style customized explanation. It seems I’ve been thoroughly brainwashed by this bastard for six years. Ha, it hurts my pride.

“…Right. You really do l, like me, I guess.”

“Right? I think so too.”

“Then can you tolerate me squeezing toothpaste from the middle?”

“…Of course.”

“Hey, why are you avoiding my gaze?”

“Uh? Um, I’m serious. Believe me.”

“I can’t believe you.”

Since I switched to liquid toothpaste, there were no tube-type toothpastes left in the house. But there was a tube-type hand cream I received as a birthday present.

I brought it and squeezed it in front of Gye Joonmin. Deliberately squeezing it from the middle.

“You, you little… Ugh…”

“This makes me doubt your sincerity.”

“No. I don’t mind at all. I’m really okay.”

Contrary to his words, his pretty face contorted like Youngsu’s face when it crumples, it was quite a sight. Judging by his reaction alone, anyone would think he was being tortured.

It was fun to see him struggling. Wait, what if I develop a dangerous taste because of this? With a sudden sense of crisis, I closed the hand cream cap.

Since I squeezed it mindlessly, my hands were covered in cream. It was too much to apply to my hands alone.

So I grabbed Gye Joonmin’s hand and rubbed it in. He protested and resisted, but I ignored him. I even intertwined our fingers on one hand and rubbed vigorously with the other.

“Stop, Won Yoogyeol. Stop it.”

At first, I didn’t think much of it, but the slippery feeling was somehow strange. How should I put it, it was a bit… Anyway, it was weird.

For a moment, my eyes met Gye Joonmin’s. He seemed to feel the same way as I did because his expression wasn’t good. Feeling awkward, I quietly let go of his hand.

A brief, subtle silence followed. We both avoided each other’s eyes almost simultaneously. It was incredibly awkward.

“Sh, should we go down now?”

“Y, yeah.”

Gye Joonmin and I awkwardly went down the stairs.

Yes, I know. The atmosphere just now was heading in that direction. Gye Joonmin probably felt it too.

But every time such a situation arose, we always avoided it. Sometimes I would run away, sometimes Gye Joonmin would back off, and sometimes we would both pretend not to notice.

I’ll be honest. We haven’t even properly done the two-letter word that starts with s, s, s… The most we’ve done is kissing each other on the lips. So, just pecks.

Yes, it’s funny and absurd that two grown men are like this. But since we haven’t even s, s, s…-ed, how could we possibly progress further? If you can’t even crawl, how can you suddenly run?

It’s not that we haven’t had the opportunity. Situations like the one just now have occurred a few times. If we were a normal couple, we would have naturally moved on to the next stage… But we always fizzled out.

It wasn’t simply because it was embarrassing or awkward. There was a reason why we were conscious of each other and avoided it. It was clear what that was.

Our first time – I don’t even know if it’s appropriate to call it that – wasn’t a good memory. For me, nor for Gye Joonmin.

It was an unwanted act for both of us. But because of the situation, there was no way to avoid it. It wasn’t for love, but solely a means for survival.

I intentionally tried to erase that incident from my memory. I tried not to think about that day at all. But is that easy? Regardless of my will, the act from that time would intrude into my thoughts like an uninvited guest.

Wouldn’t Gye Joonmin feel similarly? He said he didn’t remember anything at first, but as time passed, he started to recall bits and pieces.

Strictly speaking, it might not count as the first time. It was an act focused on guiding. The method that maximized efficiency just happened to be penetration.

I know. I understand it logically… But do things in the world always go as planned?

I just grabbed my innocent hair. It’s not like I don’t want to do that, you know, erotic, that is, that kind of thing with Gye Joonmin…

I’m a man too. Living under the same roof with someone I like, and the prettiest and cutest person in the world at that, do you think I wouldn’t have such thoughts? I’m not impotent.

Every time Gye Joonmin walked around shirtless, my heart raced. His flushed cheeks after a shower, his slightly parted lips when he’s asleep… He would occasionally, actually very often, tempt me.

Ha, pull yourself together.

I sweated quite a bit from struggling with the telescope. When I came out after a quick shower in the bathroom, Gye Joonmin handed me a can of beer. The dewdrops on the surface looked tempting.

I leaned back on the sofa and drank the beer. This was paradise.

Gye Joonmin fumbled with the remote control. When he tried to turn on a series, I grabbed his wrist and stopped him.

“Let’s watch a movie.”

“Why?”

“A series is too long to finish. It’s frustrating if we have to stop in the middle.”

“No. I’ll end up not watching it if I fall behind.”

Gye Joonmin stamped his feet like a child. Does this guy have to be cute even when he’s whining? I thought about letting him have his way, but I changed my mind.

I really didn’t like that series. This guy Gye Joonmin, despite looking like he’d only watch medical dramas or mysteries, secretly enjoys romantic comedies. He’s a guy whose appearance and preferences not only clash but have broken up.

For a while, there was a heated debate about TV viewing genres. We couldn’t seem to bridge the gap in our opinions.

If it were like before, this would have naturally escalated into a physical fight, but we only argued verbally. It was a significant improvement. I felt proud, like we had become cultured modern people.

The argument went on endlessly. At this rate, we wouldn’t reach a conclusion even if we stayed up all night. I didn’t want to waste my precious Friday night like this. Alright, then there’s only one answer.

“Hey, this won’t do. Let’s settle it with the fairest method in the world. Rock-paper-scissors.”

“…I won’t play rock-paper-scissors.”

“Are you scared?”

“I’m not scared… Ha, anyway, I won’t do it.”

“Think carefully. If you keep losing, won’t there come a time when you finally win? That could be now.”

“That’s not the kind of logic I want to hear from someone who got one question right on the probability and statistics test.”

“Shut up. I got two questions right, not one.”

“Statistically speaking, wouldn’t you get more than two right even if you just guessed the same answer for all of them?”

This son of a bitch…

Angrily, I grabbed him by the collar. He should have retaliated with a punch by now, but he just swayed back and forth, meekly held by me.

My excitement died down. I felt a little empty because there was no counterattack. What, wait, this makes me look weird.

I quickly pulled myself together before falling into the wrong kind of taste.

“How about best of three, fair and square?”

“Ha…”

Gye Joonmin reluctantly held out his hand. After three fierce battles, the winner was decided.

Gye Joonmin grumbled and put on an action movie.

“The loser doesn’t complain.”

I nudged his broad back with my foot. He glared at me, holding the remote control. His sulky eyes were incredibly refreshing.

The movie was quite entertaining. We watched, engrossed, while sipping our beers.

“Gye Joonmin, stop. No. That’s confiscated.”

I stopped Gye Joonmin as he reached for another beer can.

“Why?”

“How dare the lightweight who gets drunk after one sip.”

“It wasn’t one sip!”

He bristled, having been struck in a sensitive spot.

“Statistically speaking, the probability of you getting drunk after one sip is 98%. The same as our matching rate.”

“Do you get penalized if you don’t spout nonsense at least three times a day?”

Gye Joonmin took his hand off the beer can with a sullen face. I quickly snatched it and brought it towards me.

Because I was thirsty and drank the beer like water, I started to feel a bit tipsy. Not to the point of being completely drunk, but slightly buzzed. Looking down, I saw a bunch of crumpled beer cans rolling around. Hmm, I drank quite a bit.

I casually leaned my head on Gye Joonmin’s shoulder. His body jumped, like a kernel of corn transforming into popcorn. This kid, so easily startled.

Wanting to lie down, I tilted my body sideways and ended up resting my head on his thigh.

Because of his hard muscles, it wasn’t soft at all. Is this a wooden pillow?

Still, it had a strangely appealing quality. It was hard, but the texture and height were addictive.

My eyelids felt heavy. Ah, I’m not someone who’s this weak to alcohol.

Then, suddenly, I had a strange feeling and opened my eyes wide. As expected, my premonition was right.

“Don’t change the channel. I’m not asleep.”

Gye Joonmin was caught red-handed trying to change the channel without me knowing. This kid, did he think I wouldn’t notice?

“You were asleep.”

“I wasn’t. I was just closing my eyes for a moment.”

“The world calls that sleeping.”

“What does the world know?”

“…”

“Give me the remote while I’m asking nicely.”

Instead of listening to me, Gye Joonmin raised his hand holding the remote high in the air. His eyes were full of defiance. He looked like an eighth-grader slamming his door shut in the midst of puberty. So, you’re going to play it this way?

Thus began a fierce battle for the remote control. Unlike before, there were no punches thrown. Instead, it became a pure test of strength.

Since my muscle loss hadn’t fully recovered, I was gradually being pushed back. But I couldn’t just hand over the remote, it hurt my pride. I clung to it more persistently because I didn’t want to lose. We wrestled on the sofa for a while.

Thinking it was no use, I climbed on top of him and pinned his arms down. I intended to win with my weight.

At that moment, something hard touched my lower body. Even though this guy’s whole body is hard, this felt different somehow. Yes, I’m a man too, so I knew what this was. I knew it very well.

But why now? I narrowed my eyes and looked down at him. Gye Joonmin quickly turned his head away, avoiding my gaze.

His shyly lowered eyes, his trembling eyelashes, his flushed cheeks from the heat, his slightly bitten lips were indescribably pitiful. I couldn’t believe he was the owner of the hard object touching me right now.

You know what the bigger problem is? This guy, desperately trying to avoid eye contact with me, looks so pretty. Enough to make me have bad thoughts.

Wait, now that I think about it, it’s strange. We’re both grown adults. Our feelings are mutual. We even have mutual imprinting, the conditions are perfect. But isn’t it funny that we’re only pecking all the time? Are we playing house?

“Hey.”

“…”

Gye Joonmin didn’t answer my call. Instead, he squeezed his eyes shut. Is this guy doing this on purpose to look cute? I doubted his intentions.

“Gye Joonmin.”

“…”

“Answer me, you punk.”

“Yes.”

“Should we try kissing?”

“…Really?”

Gye Joonmin’s eyes widened as if he hadn’t expected those words at all. He slightly parted his lips, repeating what I had said. Gye Joonmin’s face, which had been flushed, now turned crimson as if it would bleed.

Gye Joonmin gauged my reaction as if trying to grasp the true meaning of my words. Anticipation peeked through his surprise. He looked like a puppy waiting for a treat. This kid, so cute.

“Yes.”

“Is it okay?”

“Why wouldn’t it be?”

There was no answer. Instead, Gye Joonmin wrapped his arms around my neck and pressed his lips against mine in an instant.

Perhaps because of poor control, our front teeth collided. Startled by the sound of teeth clashing, I pulled my face back.

I was flustered. Is this, is this how you do it?

In movies and dramas, don’t they kiss very naturally, like flowing water? Confused, I looked down at Gye Joonmin. He didn’t seem much different from me, his eyes were trembling intensely.

“Let’s, let’s try again.”

I was the one who spoke first.

“O, okay.”

This time, we didn’t rush. We tilted our heads carefully.

It was alright then. Until we both tilted our heads in the same direction. In the end, our noses collided with a magnificent crash.

“Gye Joonmin, you crazy bastard, turn the other way.”

“Huh? Oh. Okay.”

Gye Joonmin followed my instructions. It was a bit better when he turned his head the other way. Of course, that was only relative.

It was still a mess. Would it have been better if at least one of us knew the proper way? Since we were both clumsy, it was a complete spectacle.

Our noses kept bumping, and our lips hit our teeth. Frowning, I sat up.

Is kissing this combative of an act? Is it normal to taste blood in your mouth?

Well, it was a familiar taste. Wasn’t it always like this when we were fighting?

Actually, aren’t we fighting? We’re just using our lips instead of our fists. So, it’s just a change of weapons… Wait, was this bastard Gye Joonmin trying to bite me with his front teeth, and I was foolishly oblivious?

I know it’s absurd. But I have to try it myself to know what’s right. Gye Joonmin didn’t seem to know either. No, he definitely didn’t know.

Neither of us had any technique. It couldn’t be helped. Gye Joonmin had never dated because he was busy looking for Uju hyung, and I had never dated anyone because I was busy having a one-sided crush on him.

So, this is a first for both of us. Of course we wouldn’t know how to kiss properly. It would be strange if we did it well.

My upper lip already felt strange. At this rate, my lips would swell up like sausages. It was a relief that tomorrow was Saturday.

Gye Joonmin was no different. His already plump lips were even more swollen. I felt a bit sorry. But even with swollen lips, he’s pretty.

But what if the swelling doesn’t go down by Monday? What if other people misunderstand… Hmm, it would probably be fine. Even before, I used to walk around with a swollen face from punching and getting punched. People probably wouldn’t feel any awkwardness. Damn it, should I consider this fortunate?

“Sorry, was I too clumsy?”

Gye Joonmin’s voice was full of embarrassment. His long fingers gently stroked my lower lip. I unconsciously frowned as the spot where my teeth had hit was pressed.

Gye Joonmin was startled and cupped my face with both hands, checking my condition. His droopy eyebrows made him look pitiful. He was clearly intimidated. He looked like a pet that had misbehaved and was now trying to gauge its owner’s mood. Oh dear, I have to comfort him quickly.

“I’m in no position to say anything.”

“I’m sorry. It’s my first time.”

“It’s the same for me.”

“Should we try going a little slower this time?”

“Would that be better?”

Hmm… Judging by the way we’re doing it, speed didn’t seem to be the problem. Would it get better if we went slower? I didn’t think so.

“I’ll practice hard.”

I was surprised by Gye Joonmin’s solemn vow and asked back,

“What? How?”

“With you, like this.”

Gye Joonmin wrapped one hand around the top of my head and the other around my waist.

The feeling of his tongue gently parting my lips and trying to push inside was strange. I shivered and tilted my head back.

Uh, what’s this? It’s different from before.

Gye Joonmin pulled back slightly and then kissed me with a smacking sound. As if asking for permission, he gently bit and released my lower lip. The soft tip of his tongue gently teased the inside of my lip. It felt like he was acting cute and also being demanding. Either way, it was cute.

Ha, what could I do? As a sign of permission, I hugged his back. I willingly accepted his tongue as it slid into the gap between my slightly parted lips.

The feeling of someone else’s tongue invading my mouth along with his soft breath was unfamiliar. I didn’t think I would ever get used to it.

I flinched as he gently traced the line between my teeth and gums. Wanting to touch him more, I intertwined my tongue with his. I still didn’t know what to do, so I moved stiffly. I tried my best, but I was incredibly clumsy. A low rumble transmitted through our pressed lips.

Is this bastard, laughing? Just as I was about to protest, he gently stroked the soft flesh inside my cheek with the tip of his tongue. It was a soothing motion. Strangely, my lower abdomen tickled.

“Huu…”

I unconsciously let out a moan.

As expected of someone with a good head, this kid’s learning ability was also excellent. He quickly became proficient, as if he had never been lost. As expected, not just anyone gets into the top 3 of the Center’s affiliated high school. It was too much for me, who was in the bottom 3. It’s unfair. It’s so unfair…

As he changed the angle, his tongue invaded deeper. He persistently teased the sensitive flesh inside. I clenched my jaw at the feeling of him languidly sweeping inside. Wet breaths continued to escape between our touching lips.

My breathing gradually grew heavier. I could breathe through my nose, I knew that, but I kept forgetting. Panting, I pushed against his chest with my palm. It was a sign to stop. But he pushed inside even harder.

“Uh, uh…”

This wouldn’t do. Thinking I would get suffocated at this rate, I punched him hard in the solar plexus. Only then did Gye Joonmin break the kiss.

“You…”

“Yoogyeol, I like you.”

“…Hey.”

“I like you.”

As if he couldn’t let go, he pecked at the corners of my mouth, making smacking sounds. He didn’t forget to keep saying he liked me. He seemed to have noticed that I’m weak to those words. When I shook my head, telling him to stop, his tongue slipped back into my mouth. Fuck, no. No. I told you to stop!

Gye Joonmin would press his lips against mine and then create gaps in between to give me time to breathe. This bastard, he must have noticed that I was suffocating. As expected, he’s quick-witted.

It was much better after that. No, actually, it was good. Too good.

Study King Gye Joonmin melted me like a candy. I seemed to have gotten used to it too, but I was no match for him. Is this what a genius is?

Ah, kissing is this good. I never knew that pressing lips and intertwining tongues with someone you like could be this exhilarating. I felt wronged for not knowing this until now. I wasted 24 years of my life, seriously.

Our lips parted, and then he tilted his head again. He licked my lips and then gently sucked on my lower lip. When I tried to pull back, he held the back of my head to prevent me from escaping.

I had no choice but to accept Gye Joonmin. He sucked on my lips to his heart’s content and then gently slipped between them. Very slowly and persistently. Wherever his tongue languidly passed, my nerves tingled. It was strange. Too strange.

Like marking his territory, Gye Joonmin leisurely explored every nook and cranny. As he persistently swept over my sensitized mucous membranes, goosebumps ran down my spine. My heart raced erratically. Like someone desperate, I tightly gripped Gye Joonmin’s clothes. That was a mistake. I shouldn’t have done that.

As if he’d been waiting, a rough kiss poured down. He pushed hard, as if he’d been holding back until now. My jaw dropped open, and he sucked on my tongue. Saliva, I didn’t know whose, dripped stickily down the corners of my mouth. My lower back ached.

“Ha, hey, uh, uh…”

My thighs twitched, and I unconsciously moaned. Gye Joonmin swallowed even that sound with his lips. My strength gave way, and my upper body leaned forward. Gye Joonmin supported my weight with his shoulder and kissed and sucked on me as he pleased.

Fine, do whatever you want. In the end, I gave up and surrendered to the tingling pleasure.

We kissed for quite a long time. I didn’t measure the time exactly, but it was definitely long. Because his plump lips were swollen.

Gye Joonmin pressed his forehead against mine and gazed at me intently. His eyes were full of concern. His touch as he caressed the scar still on my face was quite affectionate.

He seemed a bit dejected. He seemed quite upset about the scar. Oh well, it’s not like I’ll live like this forever. Esper Park Haewon will erase it soon anyway.

As a sign to not worry about it, I reached out and touched his pretty lips. They were soft and fun to touch.

“Do you want to do more?”

“N, no!”

Actually, I wanted to do more, but I denied it first because of my pride. As if he saw through me, Gye Joonmin smiled mischievously. Even if he smiles like this with swollen lips, would it be anything other than pretty?

“Really? You want to stop?”

“Yes.”

“Why? Was it not good?”

“It was just so-so.”

“But this doesn’t seem like it.”

Gye Joonmin reached his hand between my legs. He teasingly rubbed the half, no, actually almost fully erect area with the back of his hand.

“Hey, you, crazy!”

I grabbed his mischievous hand and pressed it down above his head. But he didn’t just take it. He grabbed my wrist in turn, and suddenly my vision flipped.

I was clearly straddling his lower abdomen, but now he was on top of me. Annoyed, I kneed his abdomen.

We wrestled again. We each tried to get on top of the other to gain the upper hand. As we were scuffling, I heard an ominous sound.

It was the sound of wood breaking. We both stopped moving at the same time. It was a very bad sign.

A sad memory flashed through my mind. The sofa that collapsed under our vigorous wrestling… The leather sofa that we used for four years with one side tilted… Come to think of it, it’s a wonder it didn’t break sooner, with two adult men, 184cm and 192cm tall, constantly fighting on it.

I couldn’t let this sofa suffer the same fate. This is the sofa that Gye Joonmin and I painstakingly chose after ten days of deliberation. How arduous that process was! Gye Joonmin has eccentric and difficult tastes, and I have refined and elegant tastes. This was the only sofa that satisfied both of our preferences. Who knows when and where we’ll find a sofa like this again!

Perhaps Gye Joonmin had the same thought, he slowly got off of me. I quickly checked the condition of the sofa. Fortunately, it didn’t seem to be broken.

“Let’s move.”

Gye Joonmin took my hand and led me to the bedroom. I followed without a word.

We knelt facing each other on the bed. Gye Joonmin took something out from the nightstand next to the bed. Condoms and lube. I was dumbfounded and glared at him.

“What, why are you looking at me like I’m trash?”

Gye Joonmin muttered sheepishly,

“You know it well. When did you prepare these things?”

“J, just in case… we needed them…”

He trailed off, unlike his usual self. His shy reaction, which was rare to see, was so cute that I wanted to tease him. I narrowed my eyes further and clicked my tongue.

“Wow, this bastard is unusable.”

“J, just… because we might urgently need them…”

“So you prepared them in advance?”

“…”

Gye Joonmin couldn’t continue and hung his head. The tips of his ears were flushed. I wondered where the guy who had skillfully toyed with me with his kisses just moments ago had gone.

Shaking my head, my gaze suddenly landed somewhere. Fuck, what’s that? No, wait. Why is it that size?

Between Gye Joonmin’s legs, that is, his thing wasn’t human. I felt its unusual size when it touched my thigh earlier, but seeing it with my own eyes was a different kind of shock. It was enormous even with his pants still on.

It seemed like he’s S-rank even there. He must be crazy…

I didn’t see it properly during the penetration guiding because I was half out of my mind. Perhaps that was fortunate. If I had known its size, I might have run away.

Damn it, no wonder it hurt like hell! I thought it was because of rejection, but the cause was different.

“Why are you so surprised?”

Gye Joonmin asked calmly, even though he knew what I was looking at. Such a shameless bastard.

“Crazy, are you even human?”

“Isn’t this average?”

I looked at mine once, and then at his. I looked back and forth a few times and then lowered my head. I’ve never felt insecure about mine, but for the first time in my life, I felt defeated.

No. Let’s think objectively. This bastard’s is ridiculously big. Even I have a size that’s well above average. This isn’t just my opinion. Everyone at the sauna stared at it in awe.

“Well, yeah. Yours is big, but it doesn’t matter since I don’t plan on using it anyway.”

Gye Joonmin reacted as if the sky had fallen at my words.

“What are you talking about? Why wouldn’t you use mine?”

“…?”

“…?”

Both Gye Joonmin and I were flustered. We were speechless for a moment, staring at each other in bewilderment. Then we shouted simultaneously,

“Crazy, you’re going to be the top?”

“With that pretty face, you’re telling me you want to top?”

“…”

“…”

I stared intently at Gye Joonmin. Judging by his stubborn gaze, he wasn’t going to back down.

But what can I do? I don’t plan on changing my mind either.

As if he realized that, Gye Joonmin’s lips trembled. So pathetic. What’s he going to do if he trembles his lips? Does he think he can be forgiven for everything just because he’s cute? Don’t try to live life the easy way.

We lunged at each other almost simultaneously. We fought on the bed again. Since the bed was sturdier than the sofa, we wrestled without restraint.

“I let you bottom once. Now we have to switch turns fairly, you punk!”

“Ah, I don’t remember!”

“What? Hey, you said you remembered last time!”