NOGEUROPTTA

VIII

In-Sung and Hyo-Joo reveled in the sweetness of their new life together, savoring every moment of their budding romance. Their days were filled with joy, as they traveled, discovered new experiences, and even shared the darker aspects of In-Sung's gangster life. They found solace in each other's company, building a bond that grew stronger with each passing day.

One sunny afternoon, they lay together on the soft, green grass. In-Sung rested his head on Hyo-Joo's thigh while she gently played with his hair. The peaceful moment was a cocoon of tranquility, their love encapsulated in the serene surroundings.

"Byung-Doo," Hyo-Joo called softly, using his real name.

In-Sung opened his eyes, gazing up at her with a relaxed smile. "Yes?"

"We should tell our families about us," Hyo-Joo said, her tone serious yet tender.

In-Sung nodded, acknowledging the truth in her words. "You're right. We should."

He sat up beside her, the weight of their decision settling between them. "I can convince my dad, but what about your dad?"

Hyo-Joo smiled reassuringly. "I can explain to my dad. It's not like he hates you that much."

In-Sung chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eye. "What if my dad and I plan an attack on them?"

Hyo-Joo laughed, then looked at him seriously. "Then I'll shoot you."

A gunshot rang out, echoing through the air, and In-Sung felt a sharp pain in his chest.

Back in the Present..

 In-Sung awoke with a start, the same recurring dream haunting him once more. He stared at his reflection in the mirror, his eyes tracing the scar on his chest. The memory of that fateful day was etched into his skin, a permanent reminder of their past.

Pressing his fingers firmly against the scar, he closed his eyes, letting the pain and the memories wash over him. With a sigh, he buttoned up his shirt, concealing the scar and the emotions it stirred. Steeling himself for the day ahead, he left the room, carrying the weight of his past and the hope for his future.

In-Sung spotted Jungha preparing to leave, his younger brother's movements purposeful and determined. "Jungha!" he called out.

Jungha turned around, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Good morning, hyung."

In-Sung approached him with a curious expression. "Do you like Youn-Jung that much?"

Caught off guard, Jungha faltered, unable to find the right words. Seeing his brother's flustered expression, In-Sung laughed, the sound light and teasing.

"Come on, if you like her, then pursue her," In-Sung said, clapping Jungha on the shoulder.

"But you said that girls are hard to understand," Jungha protested, a hint of confusion in his voice.

In-Sung's smile softened, a touch of wisdom in his eyes. "Love makes people understand each other. Don't miss your chance, Jungha. Tell Youn-Jung how you feel."

A smile spread across Jungha's face as he embraced his brother. "Thank you, hyung."

In-Sung hugged him back, tapping his back gently. "All for my boy," he murmured.

The moment was filled with unspoken support and the deep bond of brotherhood, a quiet understanding passing between them.