BUILD
Three years had passed, yet Build couldn't shake the memory of Bible-the mornings they'd shared, the quiet moments together, the laughter, the gentle touches, and every look of love.
It was a constant ache, replaying the last time he'd seen him asleep, blissfully unaware that Build would be gone when he awoke.
Build had left, not because he wanted to, but because his dreams had finally beckoned. ---
Three Years Ago
Bible had sensed the tension the moment Build held the letter, barely able to meet his gaze.
"I... I got an offer," Build said, his voice shaky. "They want me as an idol. In Korea."
Bible's eyes searched his face, understanding flashing within them. "You're going, right?" he asked, keeping his voice steady.
Build bit his lip, nodding slowly. "But I'd have to live there..."
"So... are you going to take it?" Bible's voice softened.
He'd always told Build to follow his dreams, but now the words felt bitter.
"This is my dream, Ble," Build whispered, trying to keep his voice from cracking.
Bible forced a smile, his resolve faltering. "Then I'll go with you."
"No," Build replied quickly, shaking his head. "You can't give up everything you've worked for. Your new series, P'Pond's project... you've made it this far."
"It's fine," Bible said, a hint of desperation in his voice.
"I'd find something there. Just... please."
Build's heart twisted, feeling Bible's grip tighten on his hands.
The thought of leaving him was unbearable, but Build knew he couldn't let Bible make such a sacrifice.
He couldn't be the one who held Bible back.
Bible's fingers brushed away his tears, pulling him close.
"It's okay. Think it over. If you decide to let me go with you, I'll come without hesitation."
But Build already knew.
As much as he loved Bible, this dream was something he had to pursue alone.
---They hadn't talked about it for weeks.
The unspoken tension grew between them, even though Bible acted as if everything was fine, holding him close every night, never pressing him about the decision.
The studio celebration for their series release was a brief reprieve from the turmoil.
"You two have been together for four years now. When's the wedding?" Apo teased, grinning over a tequila.
Bible gave a short smile. "Soon."
Build's chest tightened. He wanted to hold onto that future, but he already knew he couldn't have both.
Will it be too much to ask if he wants to be married with Bible, but still live his dream life?
He knew, it is greedy of him, to want to have both.
---
Present Day
In the years that followed, Build had plunged into the world of idols, enduring grueling training and endless expectations.
The love from fans and the thrill of performing on stage were exhilarating, but he felt the stark contrast.
Life as a Be On Cloud artist had been easier, free of the relentless pressures to fit a narrow standard.
They hadn't spoken, not once.
The company's rules were strict, and the lifestyle even more so.
He tried to ignore the loneliness gnawing at him, avoiding any glimpses into Bible's life.
But occasionally, he'd catch him on TV or see a poster promoting a new series. Bible looked radiant, like he was thriving.
Then there was the interview.
He hadn't planned on watching, but he couldn't resist.
The interviewer had asked, "Do you have someone you love right now?"
Bible's answer had caught him off guard. "There is someone, whom my heart belongs to, always," he'd said, his gaze intense, as if speaking to him across the distance.
Build's heart twisted. He remembered all the promises, all the quiet vows they'd shared.
But that was years ago.
And though he hadn't moved on, he couldn't be sure if Bible was still waiting-or if he even should be.