Melodious Fate

Part 18

Morning

The morning light filtered through the dorm windows as Dunk stirred awake. He was alone in Joong’s bed, and for a moment, last night felt like a dream—until he noticed Joong’s familiar scent lingering on the sheets. Dunk’s heart did a little flip

Pond and Daou were in the living room chatting, while Phuwin and Perth were still in the kitchen.

Pond:
Yo, Dunk! Didn’t see you last night. Are you okay now?

Dunk:
Yes yes phi I'm okay now

Pond shrugged, seemingly satisfied with that answer, but Daou gave him a suspicious side-eye.

Joong was already sitting on the couch with a cup of coffee, doing his best to act casual. The memory of last night—of holding Dunk, of their shared kisses—was still fresh in his mind. But now, he had to act like nothing had changed.

As Est walked by, he casually plopped down next to Joong

Est:
You look pretty tired, man. Late night?

Joong forced a chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck.

Joong:
Yeah, couldn’t really sleep. Too much going on in my head.

Est nodded sympathetically
Est:
Yeah, the schedule’s been brutal lately. But hey, the fans are loving it.
And dunk He's been sick lately too much

Joong:
Nah, he must’ve been working late
You know how dedicated he is

Est:
Huh??
But even as Joong spoke, he could feel Daou’s sharp gaze lingering on him. Daou had always been the observant one, and Joong knew that any slip-up could lead to questions—questions they weren’t ready to answer.

The group was scheduled for a recording session, and Dunk was back in manager mode, standing at the control booth with his eyes focused on the monitors.Joong, on the other hand, found it hard to focus. Every time he glanced through the glass, he caught Dunk’s eye, But he had to be careful. The members were all around,

Just then, the door to the control room burst open, and Phi Tha himself walked in. Dunk’s spine stiffened as the manager’s eyes swept over everyone in the room

Phi tha:
Joong, you’re up next. I need to see more emotion in your performance!!
And Dunk—make sure the schedules for tomorrow are ready. I don’t want any delays

Dunk nodded quickly, keeping his expression neutral. But as soon as Phi Tha turned away, he let out a breath he didn’t realize he had been holding. Joong caught Dunk’s eye through the glass, and for a brief second, they exchanged a look—a silent promise that they would find a way to make this work.

At night

Joong was desperately trying to find a moment alone with Dunk, but it was nearly impossible with everyone around.

Phuwin:
Hey dunk

Phuwin called from the kitchen.

Phuwin:
Can you help me with something here?

Dunk:
Yes coming

he said, giving Joong an apologetic look before heading into the kitchen.

After the dinner

Joong:
I thought they’d never go to bed

Joong whispered, his voice tinged with relief as he wrapped his arms around Dunk.