Beyond the Sunset

Chapter I

"Is there any possible way to have her invited in Baeksang?"

I was at the kitchen, pouring my freshly brewed coffee into my favorite mug when I heard him talking with someone on the phone. In my loose white shirt and cozy shorts, I found myself doing domesticated things for the both of us like making some coffee. Roughly, times have really changed, at least for me.

I couldn't help myself but see what was he up to. His brows were scrunching up, showing an immense disbelief of what he was hearing from the other side of the line.

I raised my mug to ask him whether he wanted some coffee for himself too. Though quite busy and pretty serious with his phone conversation, he still managed to nod and give me his dashing smile. I smiled back at him. Streets would say that I was born lucky to be sharing my quiet days with the person I have been admiring for a long time.

I prepared his coffee and hurriedly sat next to him on the couch. I pressed my nose on his arms to get a good sniff of his addicting scent. Simple moments like such makes me feel more alive. I love being next to him that I wouldn't trade it for anything in this world.

I made sure to keep my ears wide open so I could get a full grasp on what was keeping him bothered.

(I am sorry, Boss. But the nominations were final and her agency has not submitted any entry of her.)

"Please let me know if what else can we do to make things be in our favor," those were his words before he hung up the call.

"And what was that?" I asked as I rested my legs on his lap. Nothing beats the comfort of my home, especially now that I am having him around.

"Nothing. I was just trying to push my luck and find means to have your attendance secured this upcoming Baeksang," he gently caressed my inner thigh with his palm in a circular motion, sending me shivers down to my deepest core. "Flawless."

I was at the brink of wanting him to stop and wishing for him to continue. His touch felt so great that I almost lost my grip over the mug that I was holding. He always knew where and how to touch me. He makes me weak. At the same time, he makes me feel strong in many ways one could ever imagine.

"You know how things work for Baeksang, right? And besides, not getting any nomination isn't a big deal for me. I love my craft and I am having fun with what I do. Recognitions are only a plus." I playfully ran the tips of my fingers on his arm. Sure, he looks great with his suit on. But I swear, he looks extra divine with his home clothes.

The thing is that, days before the actual announcement of the nominees, actors would already know whether or not their names will be on the list. Unfortunately, mine didn't make it to the cut.

"But I want you to be there," he sulked. "It would be so much better to have you next to me that day. I want to remind the entire nation how good we look together."

I smiled. As much as I wanted to be in one frame with him on the awards night, I was already very much happy to see him getting recognized for his exquisite acting. "Let's just be grateful that you're one of the nominees for the best actor. And there's no point of reminding them. We will only cause a buzz."

"Well, yeah," he sipped his coffee and stared at me intently. "This coffee... it tastes really good."

"It does, right?" I smiled in agreement.

"But you know what tastes better?" He placed his mug on the coffee table and gently pulled me towards him. "This."

And at that very moment, he pressed his lips against mine. Who am I to complain when I have all this love in my heart to willingly give him?