Title: Shadows of Deception: A Tale of Love

Chapter 7; A Step Towards Love

It was already the weekend, and Babe was on his way to the race tracks for Joon's event. The exhaustion from working all night on the new collection and collaboration with Mars Company clung to him, but he was determined to support his friend. His mind wandered back to the intense and satisfying encounter with Billy. They hadn’t seen each other since that night, and Babe was frustrated that Billy hadn’t reached out. "How the hell has he not reached out yet?" he muttered to himself, staring out of the car window at the blissful, sunny day.

Was I really wanting him to call me after that night? he thought, annoyed at his own vulnerability. The memory of Billy’s touch, his words, and the way they had both succumbed to their desires played on repeat in his mind. Babe sighed deeply, resting his forehead against the cool glass.

As they arrived at the race tracks, the roar of engines and the buzz of excitement brought Babe out of his reverie. He stepped out of the car, squinting against the bright sunlight. Tack and Coo were already there, waiting for him with eager smiles.

"Finally, you’re here!" Coo exclaimed, pulling Babe into a tight hug. "I was beginning to think you’d stand us up."

Babe chuckled, hugging him back. "Wouldn’t miss it for the world." Rolling his eyes.

Tack nudged him playfully. "You look like you’ve been up all night. Work keeping you busy?"

"Yeah, something like that," Babe replied, trying to sound casual.

They made their way to the VIP section, where Joon was waiting for them. His eyes lit up when he saw Babe, and he quickly made his way over, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.

"Babe! You made it," Joon said, his voice full of warmth. "I’m so glad you’re here."

Babe smiled, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. "Of course. Wouldn’t miss seeing you race."

The event was in full swing, with sleek cars speeding around the track and fans cheering from the stands. Despite the excitement around him, Babe couldn’t fully immerse himself in the moment. His thoughts kept drifting back to Billy, to the way they had connected so intensely and how abruptly it had ended.

As the race progressed, Joon took every opportunity to check in with Babe, sensing that something was off. "You, okay?" he asked during a break, handing Babe a bottle of water.

"Yeah, just tired," Babe replied, taking a sip. "Work’s been crazy."

Joon nodded, his eyes full of understanding. "I get it. But I’m glad you’re here. It means a lot to me."

Babe forced a smile, trying to push away the nagging thoughts of Billy. "I’m glad to be here too."

The race continued, and Joon’s skill behind the wheel was impressive. He manoeuvred his car with precision and speed, earning cheers from the crowd. Babe tried to focus on the moment, on supporting his friend, but it was difficult.

As the day wore on, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the track. The race was nearing its end, and Joon was in the lead. Babe watched with bated breath as Joon crossed the finish line, securing a victory.

The crowd erupted in applause, and Joon’s team rushed to congratulate him. Babe, Tack, and Coo joined in the celebration, their cheers blending with the rest of the fans. Joon made his way over to them, a triumphant grin on his face.

"We did it!" he exclaimed, pulling Babe into another hug. "Thanks for being here."

Babe hugged him back, genuinely happy for his friend. "You were amazing out there."

As the celebrations continued, Babe’s phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out and saw a message from an unknown number.

Hey, it’s Billy. We need to talk.