Echoes in the forest | Minsung

Convergence

The apartment was quiet, the tension from the past few days giving way to a softer, more personal atmosphere. The early morning sunlight that had bathed the living room in a golden hue had long faded, replaced by the calming glow of lamps scattered around the space. Han and Lee Know had decided to take a break from the relentless pursuit of the Black Chain's operations, opting instead for a night dedicated to themselves.

Han had set up a cozy corner in the living room with a few candles, their flickering light casting a warm, inviting glow. Soft music played in the background, a soothing blend of instrumental tracks that filled the space with a sense of tranquility. On the small coffee table was an assortment of snacks and a bottle of wine, the remnants of which had already been sampled.

Lee Know, dressed in a casual yet stylish outfit—jeans and a fitted shirt—sat on the couch, his eyes flicking over to Han who was preparing the wine. Han was dressed in a more relaxed manner, a comfortable sweater and jeans that emphasized his relaxed state. The tension of their previous encounters had softened into a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere, and it was clear that both were eager for a respite from their harrowing experiences.

Han poured the wine with practiced ease, handing a glass to Lee Know before taking a seat beside him. The two shared a quiet moment, the clinking of their glasses the only sound breaking the comfortable silence.

"To us," Han said softly, raising his glass.

"To us," Lee Know echoed, their glasses meeting in a gentle toast.

They sipped their wine, the rich flavor mingling with the sweetness of the evening. As the music played, Han found himself drawn to the way Lee Know's eyes softened in the candlelight, the flickering glow highlighting the contours of his face. There was a quiet intensity in Lee Know's gaze, one that spoke of both affection and a depth of feeling that had grown between them.

The conversation flowed naturally, the weight of their troubles momentarily lifted as they talked about their favorite movies, books, and the oddities of life that made them laugh. It was a normal evening, punctuated by the kind of laughter that came from being with someone who truly understood you.

Eventually, the conversation waned, leaving them in a comfortable silence. Han reached out, his fingers lightly brushing against Lee Know's hand. The touch was gentle, but it sparked a current of electricity between them. Lee Know's eyes met Han's, a silent understanding passing between them.

"Han," Lee Know said softly, his voice a low murmur, "there's something I need to tell you."

Han's heart raced as he leaned in closer, his gaze fixed on Lee Know's lips. "What is it?"

Lee Know took a deep breath, his hand reaching up to cup Han's cheek. "I've wanted to be with you for a long time. But with everything that's happened, I didn't want to rush things."

Han's breath caught in his throat. The raw sincerity in Lee Know's voice was palpable, and it sent a thrill through him. "I've been waiting for this too," he admitted, his voice trembling slightly.

Without another word, Lee Know closed the distance between them, capturing Han's lips in a kiss that was both tender and fervent. The initial contact was soft, exploratory, as if both were savoring the moment of finally being so close. Han's hands roamed up to Lee Know's neck, pulling him closer as their kiss deepened, becoming more urgent.

The world outside seemed to disappear as they lost themselves in each other. Han's senses were overwhelmed by the heat of Lee Know's body, the taste of his lips, and the intoxicating scent of his cologne. They moved together with a natural rhythm, their hands exploring, their breaths mingling in soft, shared sighs.