The Rules Of Love 2 : Shadows from the Past

Episode 2: A Day Out

The car windows open and the warm breeze streaming in. The sun is bright and the countryside stretches before them in a mix of green fields and rolling hills. Hanjin taps his fingers on the steering wheel in rhythm with the music blaring from the radio, singing along to an upbeat song with Dohoon by his side, equally as enthusiastic. They're both slightly off-key, but neither cares.

Dohoon (laughing as he tries to hit a high note): "This is why I never made it as a singer!"

Hanjin (grinning): "Well, you're my favorite duet partner, even if you can't keep up with the tune."

They continue to sing and laugh together, enjoying the freedom of the open road. After a while, they realize they've taken a few too many turns off the main route and are officially lost, but neither seems bothered. Instead, they treat it as part of their adventure, deciding to take whatever road looks interesting.

Dohoon pulls out his phone to take a series of candid shots of Hanjin as he's driving. He captures Hanjin mid-laugh, with his hair blowing messily in the wind, and a picture of him gazing thoughtfully out at the scenery. Dohoon's gaze lingers on Hanjin through the camera lens, appreciating the unguarded joy in his expression.

Dohoon (smiling to himself): "I think this might be my favorite photo of you yet."

Hanjin blushes slightly, but his smile doesn't fade.

They eventually stumble upon a quiet lakeside area tucked between the hills, with a small dock and a handful of rowboats gently bobbing in the water. The scene is picturesque, with crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding trees and the bright blue sky. It's serene and beautiful, like a hidden gem they weren't meant to find.

Dohoon (suggestively): "How about we take one of these boats out for a spin? The lake's calling our names."

Hanjin looks at the rowboats with a bit of hesitation. He's not exactly confident in his rowing skills, but Dohoon's excitement is contagious.

Hanjin (smiling nervously): "I don't know... I might end up rowing us in circles."

Dohoon (grinning): "Then we'll be the most graceful circle-rowers the lake has ever seen."

With a laugh and a nod, Hanjin agrees, and they soon find themselves rowing out onto the lake. Hanjin's rowing is a bit clumsy, and Dohoon can't resist making a few lighthearted jabs.

Dohoon (laughing): "You're rowing like you're trying to fight the water!"

Hanjin (mock-pouting): "I'd like to see you try!"

In his attempt to row more seriously, Hanjin accidentally splashes Dohoon with water. They both freeze for a second before bursting into laughter. Taking it as an invitation, Dohoon dips his hand into the water and flicks a splash back at Hanjin. The brief water fight leaves them both soaked and grinning, the sound of their laughter carrying over the still lake.

Once they settle down, they sit in the middle of the lake, admiring the tranquil scenery around them. Hanjin finds himself feeling an overwhelming sense of happiness, looking at Dohoon's smiling face and the beautiful landscape around them.

Hanjin (softly): "You know, days like this... they're like little gifts."

Dohoon glances at him, his expression softening.

Dohoon: "Well, there's no one else I'd rather spend it with."

Hanjin smiles, his heart feeling warm with gratitude and joy.

On their drive back, Hanjin and Dohoon spot a quaint little antique shop by the side of the road, nestled between tall trees and covered in ivy. Its charm draws them in, and they decide to stop by for a look. The shop is filled with trinkets, vintage clocks, small statues, and other curiosities that seem to hold stories of their own. They walk through the aisles, picking up random items and playfully guessing their stories.

Dohoon (holding up a small, antique teapot): "Imagine the conversations this teapot has overheard. Probably a few love confessions, don't you think?"

Hanjin (laughing): "Or maybe it's a magical teapot that only spills the truth when someone pours from it."

As they continue browsing, they each decide to choose a small keepsake for the other. Hanjin's eyes land on a small, vintage pocket watch. It's delicate and charming, with intricate patterns engraved along its case. It reminds him of Dohoon—timeless and full of hidden details. He picks it up, hoping Dohoon will feel the same connection to it.

Meanwhile, Dohoon spots a simple silver bracelet with a small, leaf-shaped pendant. The pendant is subtle yet beautiful, and it makes him think of Hanjin's quiet, artistic nature and his love for the outdoors. He smiles, feeling like he's found the perfect gift.

They meet at the counter, both hiding their items behind their backs, smiling like two kids with secrets.

Dohoon (holding out the bracelet): "For you. Something to remind you of today."

Hanjin's eyes widen with surprise, and he holds up the pocket watch in response.

Hanjin: "And this... for you."

They exchange the items, both touched by the thoughtfulness of each other's choices. As they slip on their respective gifts, they share a quiet look, feeling their connection deepen. There's an unspoken understanding between them—a sense that they've each found someone who truly sees them.

Dohoon (smiling softly): "Now we've got something to remember today by, wherever we go next."

Hanjin nods, his heart swelling with emotion.

When they finally return to Hanjin's apartment, the sun has begun to set, casting a warm glow over the room. Exhausted from the day's adventures, they flop onto the couch, a comfortable silence settling between them. Hanjin rests his head on Dohoon's shoulder, feeling the weight of the day's excitement and happiness.

Dohoon gently wraps an arm around him, drawing him close. They sit like that, savoring the peace, the quiet intimacy of just being together. Neither feels the need to break the silence; the warmth of each other's presence says everything they need.

Dohoon (softly, as if speaking a promise): "Days like these... I want us to have more of them. Moments we can look back on, no matter where life takes us."

Hanjin closes his eyes, a smile tugging at his lips.

Hanjin: "Me too. I'll always cherish them... and you."

They sit there until the last light of day fades, wrapped in each other's warmth, feeling like there's no place they'd rather be. For both of them, today was more than just a day out—it was a memory, a piece of their shared story, and a reminder of the joy they bring to each other's lives.

End of Episode 2.