Sirens song

Chapter 15

The first rays of sunlight filtered through the cabin windows, gently rousing Seonghwa from his slumber. He sat up, rubbing his eyes. His gaze then fell upon Hongjoong, sleeping soundly next to him, a peaceful expression on his face.

Seonghwa felt a pang of affection in his heart, and he leaned down to press a tender kiss to Hongjoong's cheek. "Time to start the day," he murmured, his voice barely a whisper.

Hongjoong stirred, groaning softly. His eyes fluttered open, revealing his drowsiness. "Morning Seonghwa," he murmured, his voice still heavy with sleep. He reached out for Seonghwa, pulling him into a half-asleep hug.

"Good morning," Seonghwa replied, a soft smile playing on his lips. He returned Hongjoong's hug, his arms encircling him, their bodies fitting together perfectly. "How did you sleep?" he asked, his thumb tracing comforting circles on Hongjoong's waist.

"Better than I thought," Hongjoong admitted, rubbing his eyes. "Maybe it's the comfortable bed, or maybe it's the company."

Seonghwa chuckled, the sound filling the room with a warmth as comforting as a hearth fire. "I'd like to think it's the latter," he replied, the corners of his mouth lifting further in a teasing grin.

Seonghwa's heart warmed at Hongjoong's words. He knew that the wounds of Yunho's loss would take time to heal, but for now, these small moments of peace were precious. He tucked a stray lock of hair behind Hongjoong's ear, a soft smile on his lips. "I'm glad," he murmured, his voice warm and full of affection.

They stayed like that for a while, the world outside their cabin seemingly pausing for a moment. The sun continued its steady ascent, casting a gentle glow over the room, and the distant sounds of the sea's gentle lapping and the ship's creaks were their lullaby.

Finally, Hongjoong stirred, lifting his head slightly to look at Seonghwa. His eyes were filled with gratitude and a hint of lingering sorrow, yet there was a spark of hope there too.

"Thank you, Seonghwa," he murmured, his voice soft but sincere. He reached up and cupped Seonghwa's face with his hand, his thumb stroking Seonghwa's cheek. The gesture was gentle, yet it conveyed a depth of emotion that words could barely express.

Hongjoong's gaze held Seonghwa's, their eyes speaking words they couldn't yet voice. The bond between them was growing stronger, each moment they shared solidifying something that felt deeper than friendship, yet neither were ready to voice those feelings aloud.

Seonghwa leaned into Hongjoong's touch, his eyes closing briefly as he nuzzled his hand. When he opened them again, his eyes held a tender warmth that mirrored the same unspoken understanding.

"Anytime, Hongjoong. Anytime," he said softly, the words echoing his promise, his commitment to be there for Hongjoong through any storm. He leaned in, capturing Hongjoong's lips in a slow, tender kiss, their bodies pressed closely together for a moment, sharing warmth and comfort.

Hongjoong melted into the kiss, his body melding effortlessly with Seonghwa's. It was as if the world outside ceased to exist for a brief moment. When they finally parted, they stayed close, their breaths mingling in the cool morning air.

A soft knock on the door jolted them back to reality, and they looked at each other, a silent understanding passing between them before Hongjoong called out, "Come in."

San peeked his head through the door. "Uh, sorry to disturb you, Captain," he began, glancing between Hongjoong and Seonghwa with a hint of knowing in his eyes.

"But we're nearing port, and the crew is eager to dock," he continued.

Hongjoong cleared his throat, a hint of a blush creeping up his cheeks. "We'll be right there," he responded, his voice slightly shaky. San nodded and closed the door, leaving them to compose themselves.