A thousand roses | SS

Chapter 19: Everlasting bonds

Time skip to 3 months~

"Shua? I'm leaving," Seokmin calls out as he grabs his office bag and sprays a touch of cologne over his shoulder. He takes a deep breath, feeling the weight of the day ahead. Today was pivotal for him—promotion day. It all hinged on how well he would present himself in front of everyone at the office.

"Wait!" Joshua's voice rings out, halting Seokmin at the door. He turns to see his husband rushing toward him, the morning light casting a soft glow on Joshua's face.

"Best of luck," Joshua says, wrapping his arms around Seokmin in a warm, reassuring embrace. He presses a soft, lingering kiss against Seokmin's cheek. The gesture is tender, filled with unspoken support and love.

Seokmin smiles, his heart swelling with affection as he encircles Joshua's waist with his arms. "Just that?" he whispers, his voice husky as he gazes into his husband's doe-like eyes.

Joshua chuckles softly, the sound like a soothing melody to Seokmin's ears. "Of course not," he murmurs, pulling back slightly to look into Seokmin's eyes. "You’re going to do amazing today. Remember, you’ve worked so hard for this. I believe in you."

Seokmin smiles as Joshua presses his soft lips to his own. In the three months there has been tremendous progress in their lives, and their love for each other has deepened even more. They were falling in love with each other all over again, every single day.

"And," Joshua says, pulling back just slightly, a faint string of saliva still connecting their lips. His voice drops an octave, becoming a sultry whisper as he gazes into Seokmin's eyes with an intense, loving stare. "If you do get promoted, I'll reward you, okay?"

Seokmin's eyes twinkle with excitement, a mischievous smile playing on his lips as he pulls Joshua even closer. "No backing out?" he teases, rubbing his nose against Joshua's cheek, feeling the warmth of his husband's blush.

"Of course not," Joshua replies, threading his fingers through Seokmin's hair. "And if you get nervous at the meeting, just imagine me standing there, cheering for you."

Seokmin chuckles softly, his heart swelling with love. "Yes, and that too in my favorite lingerie—"

"Shut up!" Joshua exclaims, his eyes wide with embarrassment as he pushes Seokmin away playfully. His cheeks burn a deep shade of red, a mix of bashfulness and affection, while Seokmin's laughter fills the room.

After a few moments, Seokmin's laughter dies down, and he pulls Joshua back into his arms. "Thank you, love," he whispers softly, his voice full of gratitude and warmth.

Joshua nods, his eyes still glistening with a mixture of laughter and love. "Always," he murmurs, unable to find more words but knowing that in this quiet, shared moment, none are needed.

Seokmin drives to the office with a sense of calm determination, Joshua’s words and their playful exchange giving him the confidence he needs. The morning sun bathes the city in a golden glow, matching his buoyant mood. He arrives at the office, takes a deep breath, and steps out of his car, ready to face the day.

As he walks through the office doors, his colleagues greet him with nods and smiles, sensing the importance of the day. He heads to his desk, reviews his notes one last time, and then makes his way to the conference room where the final meeting will take place.

Inside the room, the atmosphere is tense but focused. His manager, Mr. Kim, stands at the head of the table, a serious expression on his face. The other senior staff members are seated, waiting for Seokmin to begin.

"Good morning, everyone," Seokmin starts, his voice steady. "Thank you for giving me this opportunity to present my vision for the future of our department."