Guon - T1 Empire: Mischievous Games

Chapter 60

The weight of the Gala was becoming unbearable for both of them, even before they had set foot in the event. With a grim determination, Gumayusi drove to Zeus' apartment, his jaw clenched. He hadn't expected things to spiral so quickly out of control.

Pulling up, he saw Oner waiting outside. The bespoke suit they had chosen together adorned Oner's frame, making him look every bit as regal as Gumayusi remembered from their shopping escapade. The memory was bittersweet, knowing the tumultuous emotions that now separated them.

The ride to the Gala was tense, the silence only broken by the faint hum of the car engine. Oner's voice, soft and defeated, cut through the stifling quiet. "We should use this Gala to clarify the situation with the media. It's best for both of us."

Gumayusi's grip tightened on the steering wheel. "There's no 'situation', Oner. Why can't you see that?"

Oner's eyes welled up, the sparkling tears reflecting the city lights outside. "Please, Gumayusi, don't lie to me. Not now."

Gumayusi's frustration boiled over. "Why do you keep insisting-"

But he stopped mid-sentence, the weight of his brother Faker's warning suddenly pressing down on him. It wasn't just about him and Oner. The world was watching, and the malicious whispers of the media would tarnish Oner's reputation and integrity. A realization dawned upon Gumayusi that he had to protect Oner, even if it meant sacrificing the budding relationship they had.

Swallowing hard, his voice cracked, "Alright, at the Gala, we'll make it clear to everyone that our relationship is strictly professional."

Oner's gaze dropped, his heart heavy with disappointment and sorrow. But he whispered a quiet, "Thank you."

Both of them, wounded and conflicted, continued their journey to the Gala, the city lights blurring past them, just like the days of their once blossoming relationship.