The Choi Brothers

🍵Chapter 8🍵

Around 11:30 at night, Yeonjun and Soobin strolled through the manicured grounds of their mansion after a late dinner. The night air was crisp, cool night air carrying the subtle scent of blooming flowers. The soft glow of the moon cast shadows on the manicured lawns as they walked, their conversation punctuated by the occasional rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze. 

"You know," Yeonjun said, his voice carrying a hint of weariness, "being the eldest and the heir to the company isn't just about having responsibilities. It's like I'm constantly in a competition. University business students from wealthy families—"

"They always seem to be sizing each other up, right?" Soobin interjected, nodding in understanding.

"Exactly. It's like there's this invisible scale where everyone's measuring who's richer, who's more successful, who's got the bigger house or the fancier car. They are always flaunting their connections, comparing themselves. It's exhausting."

Soobin nodded again, his expression thoughtful. "I can imagine. It must be tough dealing with all that pressure and comparison. You always seem to handle it so well, though."

Yeonjun chuckled, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "I try. But sometimes it feels like I'm just playing a part, not really living. I feel like I'm trapped in this competition,"

As they continued their walk, they reached the back of the house. Suddenly, they froze. In the dim light, they spotted Beomgyu climbing down a rope ladder he'd bought a month ago—supposedly for their treehouse, which was now clearly in use for another purpose.

Yeonjun and Soobin exchanged knowing glances as they observed Beomgyu's attire. The younger brother was dressed in a sleek, stylish outfit that seemed way too fancy for a casual evening at home. A small, bulging bag slung over his shoulder was the final giveaway.

Yeonjun's eyes narrowed as he raised an eyebrow. "Is that Beomgyu all dressed up like he's going to a gala?"

Soobin, never one to miss a chance for sarcasm, smirked. "Oh, absolutely. Who else would it be genius? Maybe you thought it was some random kid from the neighborhood? Or a ghost in high fashion?"

Yeonjun responded with a quick smack on Soobin's head. "Watch the attitude, you sharp-tongued brat. I don't need your sass right now."

Soobin rubbed his head, wincing slightly. "Well, it's pretty obvious he's sneaking out to that party Mom said no to. I guess he's determined to have his fun regardless. After all he was itching to go to that party all week."

Yeonjun's expression turned stern as he glared at Beomgyu, who was still climbing down the ladder. "That boy's gonna get an ass whooping so hard he won't be able to sit for days," he growled, taking a step forward.

Before Yeonjun could advance further, Soobin stepped in front of him, placing a hand gently on Yeonjun's chest. "Hold on, Big Brother. No need to go all 'Drill Sergeant' just yet. Let him get down from there before you unleash the full force of your wrath. We don't want him falling off the ladder."

Yeonjun folded his arms, his gaze fixed on Beomgyu, who was still carefully descending the rope ladder. "Fine. But don't think I'm going to let him off easy. And you, don't try to sugarcoat things for him. If you try to shield him, you'll be the one feeling the sting."

Soobin raised his hands in a mock surrender, a grin playing on his lips. "Alright, alright. He's all yours, 'Captain Serious.' Just remember to go easy on him. He's still our little brother."

Beomgyu, oblivious to his brothers' presence, finally reached the ground and turned around. He nearly jumped out of his skin when he saw Yeonjun and Soobin standing there, arms crossed and wearing matching expressions of surprise and disapproval.