Illusions of You | BrightWin Soulmate AU

04

Bright received a message from an unknown number. The sender told him that he is Win and he got Bright's number from Gunsmile.

Bright asked how Win knew about Gunsmile, then he replied that Gunsmile always drops by their classroom to give food to Love.

“Is that so..? Uhm, why did you message me? Do you need something?” Bright asked.

“Ah, no. I heard from Gunsmile that you need a food critic for your project next week. So, yeah, remember what I told you last time?”

He’s serious about that. I didn't expect it.

“Of course, I remember. But I'm just shy to ask you. I'm worried you're busy.”

“Kinda, but I need a breather too sometimes. Plus, I want to know if you're really good at cooking.” Win teased him.

“I guess I need to impress you, huh? Come to my house on the weekend. I'll cook for you.” Bright was up for the challenge.

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Bright is currently busy preparing food for Win. He's nervous and excited at the same time. He asked Win what he wanted to eat and he answered 'anything pasta will do'. So, Bright is cooking a seafood marinara.

He hummed as he swirled the pasta to have a taste of it. “Perfect.” He complimented his own cooking. Bright then placed the food on a plate and covered it while he waited for Win.

12:45 PM. There’s still no sign of Win. Bright already sent him multiple messages but he didn’t get any replies from him. Bright is starting to get worried.

1:00 PM. The doorbell rang. Bright immediately rushed to open the door, only to find a devastated Win on his knees. Fuck. Bright cursed as he didn’t know what to do. He isn’t the type of person who comforts people, but as soon as he saw Win crumbling on his doorstep-- he put him inside his arms.

“It’s okay, Win. I’m here. You’ll be alright.” Bright wasn’t sure of his words but he wanted him to know that he’s here for him. Win’s cries became louder as he hugged Bright tightly. He’s clearly in pain.

“Do you want to be alone?” Bright asked. They’re currently sitting on his sofa, meters aparts, to maintain personal space. Win has already calmed down but he’s still not speaking since he arrived at Bright's penthouse.

“N-No. Just stay beside me. I don’t want to be alone.” His voice cracked. Bright nodded and stayed.

“Tell me what happened, whenever you’re ready. I’ll be waiting.”

“Same old family problems.” Win blurted out after a long pause.

“I know you’re amazed with my works. I get it, they’re beautiful, and I don’t hate them. But what I hate is, it’s not what I want to do.” Win sighed. Bright looked at his direction.

“Fashion Design, it’s a course that my parents wanted for me. My Mom’s dream is to be a Fashion Designer, so she’s pushing me to become one. But what I really wanted to take is Visual Arts, since I want to be a painter.” Damn, that’s disheartening. His own parents cut his wings off.

“I tried to love my course since it focuses on art as well, but there’s still a feeling of longing for the one I want. My heart will always belong to paintings and not to clothes.” Win plopped his head on the sofa.

“Then, why don’t you paint too? You know, make it a hobby?”

“I do paint. But I want to pour my whole heart on it, I don’t want to make it just a hobby. I want to paint for the rest of my life.”

“We’ll never know what will happen in the future, but it’s never too late for something. Make reckless decisions once in your life if you know it will make your heart happy. Choose painting if you have to.” Bright smiled at him.

“Thanks, Bright. And sorry, you had to see me in my vulnerable state.” Win looked down.

“You don’t have to apologize. I already told you, I’m always ready to listen.” Bright ruffled his hair.

“Come on, let’s eat. You still have to criticize my food. I only accept positive feedback though.” He joked around.

They went to the table and started eating. Win maintained a poker face while chewing. Why is he not reacting? Is it bland or what? Bright felt anxious.

“I like it. 10/10.” Win smiled and gave him a thumbs up. Bright sighed heavily.

“Goodness. I got scared for a moment. I thought it tastes bad.”

“The moment I tasted it, I already knew you’ll be big. I can’t wait to see you as a Chef.” Bright couldn’t control his emotions. He turned around to cover his face. What am I feeling? I feel like I’m in cloud nine. I guess my friends are right, I am really whipped for Win.