The Deep End

Patience, Darling

Leehan's frustration was at an all-time high. Every attempt to ignore Taesan had only led to more confusion, and somehow, Taesan had found a way to worm his way into nearly every aspect of his life. Worse yet, every time they crossed paths, Taesan seemed to make it his mission to unsettle him, dropping casual touches, smirks, and those infuriating nicknames that seemed to linger in Leehan's mind long after he left.

Tonight was no different. Leehan had stayed late to finish a project, relishing the quiet solitude of an empty lab. He'd been focused, immersed in his project work—until he felt that familiar presence enter the room. He looked up to see Taesan leaning against the door, arms crossed, watching him with that infuriatingly calm expression.

"You're here late," Taesan observed, striding over to stand beside Leehan's desk.

Leehan tensed, refusing to look up. "What do you want, Taesan?"

Taesan tilted his head, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Can't a guy check in on his favorite friend?"

Leehan scowled, trying to ignore the flutter of his heart. "We're not friends, and you're not my favorite anything."

Taesan's smile didn't waver. Instead, he leaned down, his face mere inches from Leehan's, his voice dropping to a whisper. "What if I want to change that?"

Leehan's breath hitched. He tried to turn away, but Taesan's hand reached out, gently gripping his chin, forcing him to meet those intense eyes.

"Why are you doing this?" Leehan demanded, his voice wavering.

Taesan's gaze softened, something vulnerable flashing in his eyes. "Because maybe I don't want you to hate me anymore. Maybe...I want something more."

Leehan's defenses began to falter, his anger giving way to the confusion and the unexpected warmth spreading through his chest. "I don't... I don't know what you want from me, Taesan."

Taesan released him, stepping back just a fraction, though his gaze didn't waver. "Then let me show you. Let me prove that I'm more than the person I used to be."

Leehan swallowed hard, his heart pounding in his chest. He wanted to resist, wanted to hold onto the anger, the resentment—but Taesan's words made it difficult. There was something undeniably genuine in his tone, a quiet vulnerability that chipped away at the barriers Leehan had spent so long building.

"I don't know if I can trust you," he whispered, barely audible.

Taesan nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I'll take whatever time you need, love. I'm not going anywhere."

Without another word, Taesan turned and walked out of the room, leaving Leehan staring after him, his mind racing. The walls he'd built around himself felt weaker than ever, and for the first time, he wasn't sure if he wanted to keep them standing.