Unscripted Ties

The Big Decision

Fourth walked into the company's sleek, glass-paneled conference room, the air buzzing with excitement and anticipation. His manager was already seated at the long, polished table, his phone out, tapping away at emails and schedules.

Across from him sat Gemini, scrolling idly, but he looked up immediately when Fourth walked in, his eyes lighting up as he shot him a warm, easy smile. Fourth's heart did a little flip, and he found himself smiling back, even as he took a steadying breath.

"Fourth, glad you're here," his manager said, nodding toward an open seat beside Gemini. He took it, feeling Gemini's gaze linger for a moment longer before they all turned their attention to the business at hand.

Their manager cleared his throat, a hint of excitement under his usual professional demeanor. "So, we've got some big news. In light of your... public relationship reveal, several brands have expressed an interest in working with both of you as a couple. We're talking about twelve different brands and companies looking to promote their products with you two as their main representatives."

Fourth blinked, taken aback. Twelve? He'd expected maybe one or two deals at most, but this... this was unprecedented.

"These brands are offering high-value contracts," Gemini's manager added, leaning in with a smile. "But there's a catch. They want you to travel to another province for two weeks. The idea is to film the promotions on location and do some charity work while you're there. It would be an immersive experience, showing you two not just as brand ambassadors, but as people willing to give back."

Fourth felt a surge of excitement, but it was quickly tempered by a familiar tug of anxiety. Two weeks. Away from home. Away from Leo.

He cleared his throat, forcing himself to focus. "That's... huge," he admitted, glancing between the managers. "But I don't know if I can leave Leo behind for two whole weeks. He's been running a fever on and off this past week, and I don't feel right being so far away when he might need me."

A brief silence settled over the room as Fourth's words sank in. Gemini's expression softened with genuine concern, his brows knitting together as he looked at Fourth.

"Is he okay? Have you taken him to see a doctor?" Gemini asked, his voice filled with quiet worry.

Fourth nodded, managing a small smile. "Yeah, we've been to the doctor. They said it's likely a passing virus, but... I just don't want to be away from him for too long. He's still recovering, and I know he'd miss me. I'd miss him too."

The managers exchanged a quick glance, and Fourth's manager spoke up. "Well, there's another option. You could bring Leo with you. We'll make accommodations for him, and we can help take care of him when you're busy with work. It's a big opportunity, and we'd hate for you to miss it because of logistics."

Gemini's eyes lit up with excitement at the idea, and he quickly nodded in agreement. "Absolutely. Bring him. I'd be more than happy to help. I'm pretty sure he's going to love the change of scenery, and you won't have to worry about him as much. We'll all pitch in and make sure he's taken care of."

Fourth's heart warmed at the idea, and he couldn't help but feel a bit relieved. Having Leo with him would mean he could keep an eye on him, and with Gemini and the others' support, he wouldn't have to bear all the responsibility alone. Plus, Leo might enjoy seeing new places and meeting new people.

Still, he hesitated for a moment, glancing down as he weighed his options. Finally, he looked up, meeting Gemini's earnest gaze and then turning to his manager.

"Alright," he said, his voice firm with newfound resolve. "If Leo can come along, then I'll do it. I'll make sure he's comfortable, and I appreciate everyone's support. I know it'll be a lot of work, but... I think we can make it happen."

The managers exchanged approving smiles, clearly pleased with his decision. Gemini beamed, his relief evident as he gave Fourth a supportive nudge on the shoulder.

"It's going to be great," Gemini assured him, his tone warm and encouraging. "Leo's going to have the time of his life, and you'll be able to keep an eye on him, so it's a win-win."

Fourth chuckled, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. He knew this was a big decision, but with Gemini and everyone else backing him, he felt ready to take it on.