Love In The Spotlight~ YEONBIN FF

14. Hidden Scars

Yeonjun retreated to his cozy bedroom, his footsteps quiet on the floor. Soobin trailed closely behind, his eyes fixed on Yeonjun's back. As they entered, Yeonjun turned, inquiring softly, "Aren't you heading back?"

Soobin's expression transformed, pleading sincerely. "Please, can I stay tonight? I promise to behave and respect your boundaries." His voice trembled, betraying vulnerability.

As Soobin settled into bed beside Yeonjun, he noticed Yeonjun retrieving a box of ointments from his nightstand. Curiosity sparked, Soobin watched intently. Yeonjun lifted his shirt, exposing a large, reddish-purple bruise on his stomach. Soobin's eyes widened, guilt washing over him.

"Did...did I do that?" Soobin stammered, remorse etched deeply on his face. "When I pushed you onto the sofa?"

Empathy propelled Soobin forward. Gently, he took the ointment from Yeonjun's hands, applying it to the bruise with delicate care. Softly blowing on the wound, Soobin's nurturing touch conveyed regret. He attended to Yeonjun's neck, where passionate kisses had left vivid marks.

Yeonjun's gesture surprised Soobin. Taking the ointment, Yeonjun carefully applied it to Soobin's bitten lips. "Sorry," Yeonjun whispered, voice barely audible.

Soobin shook his head resolutely. "No apologies needed. I lost control. You should've been tougher." Their eyes locked, understanding flowing silently.

Yeonjun extinguished the lights, turning away. Unconsciously, Soobin wrapped protective arms around Yeonjun's waist, seeking comfort, connection, and redemption. Yeonjun's quiet breathing soothed Soobin's turbulent emotions.

Soobin gently stirred, opening his eyes to sunlight streaming through the window. Yeonjun lay peacefully beside him, lost in slumber. Careful not to disturb him, Soobin slid his arms from Yeonjun's waist, softly planting a fleeting kiss on his forehead.

Soobin tiptoed to the washroom, refreshing himself for the day. Returning, he headed to the kitchen, inspired to craft a hearty breakfast. Sizzling vegetables and crackling eggs filled the air as he meticulously prepared gyeran-mari.

Absorbed in chopping vegetables, Soobin accidentally grazed his fingers with the knife's sharp edge. Yeonjun, now awake, swiftly intervened. Gently grasping Soobin's injured hand, Yeonjun guided it under the tap's soothing stream.

"Be careful," Yeonjun cautioned, concern etched on his face.

Soobin reassured him, "It's shallow; I'm fine."

Yeonjun persisted, retrieving the first-aid box and delicately applying a band-aid.

Soobin resumed cooking, crafting a vibrant, ketchup-smiling omelette. Yeonjun's phone interrupted the serene atmosphere.

Hajun, Yeonjun's manager, called. Yeonjun confirmed his attendance at San's company meeting. Soobin's expression darkened, his smirk masking underlying emotions. Gulping down the orange juice, he declared, "I'm leaving. Finish breakfast." His hurried departure betrayed simmering resentment.

Yeonjun immersed himself in the bathtub's soothing warmth, surrendering to anguish. Tears flowed freely as tormenting thoughts consumed him.

"Why must I love you, Soobin?" he whispered despairingly. "You think I'm selfish for choosing another on-screen partner, but it's all for you. I'm protecting you from my overwhelming emotions."

Memories of their passionate encounter flooded back. Soobin's regretful words still cut deep: "I'm sorry, it was a mistake." Yeonjun had concealed his shattered heart, feigning agreement. But last night's forceful advances shattered his resolve. Feeling objectified, Yeonjun realized Soobin's indifference.

Overwhelmed, Yeonjun vowed to distance himself, erasing his presence from Soobin's life. Self-reproach echoed: "Why did I fall for someone incapable of loving me?" His heart, once full, now seemed irreparably broken.

Yeonjun meticulously prepared for the meeting, veiling his emotional turmoil. Selecting tailored attire, he ensured every crease aligned perfectly. His grooming routine followed, deliberate and precise.

Concealer carefully masked bite marks and bruises on his neck, blending seamlessly with foundation. Powder set the base, creating a flawless canvas. His hair was styled impeccably, eyes subtly accentuated, and lips painted neutral.

Surveying his reflection, Yeonjun ensured polished composure. Emotional scars hidden, he exhaled deeply, steeling himself for the encounter. With calm determination, he departed.