Bound by Shadows .jc

CHAPTER 45

Unexpected Confessions

The morning sunlight filtered through the streets, casting a warm glow as Hoshi and Woozi walked side by side toward the café. The city buzzed with weekend energy, a mix of leisurely chatter and clinking coffee cups from outdoor tables. Woozi, ever stoic, kept his expression neutral, but the warmth of Hoshi's hand intertwined with his was hard to ignore.

Hoshi's grip wasn't just firm—it was deliberate, possessive in a way that sent a clear message to any curious eyes watching them. To a casual onlooker, it was romantic, sweet even. But for those in the know, the gesture was unmistakably territorial. Hoshi wasn't just holding Woozi's hand—he was claiming him, a silent promise wrapped in unapologetic confidence.

"You don't have to hold my hand so tight," Woozi grumbled, though a faint blush dusted his cheeks.

Hoshi turned to him, his lips curling into a smirk. "And miss the chance to show everyone you're mine? Never."

Woozi rolled his eyes, his face heating up further. "You're ridiculous."

"And you're adorable when you're embarrassed," Hoshi shot back, leaning in slightly, his voice low and teasing. "Tell me again how you're the cold, untouchable Woozi."

Woozi huffed, tugging his hand slightly, but Hoshi only tightened his grip. The taller man's grin widened, clearly enjoying Woozi's flustered state. "Relax, Jihoon," Hoshi said with mock seriousness. "I'm just protecting what's mine."

Woozi shot him a glare, but the corners of his lips twitched upward despite himself.

The café came into view, bustling with its usual morning crowd. As they stepped inside, the warm aroma of freshly baked goods and brewed coffee enveloped them. The chatter and clatter of cups filled the space, creating a lively, inviting atmosphere.

No sooner had they entered than Seungkwan's unmistakable high-pitched voice rang out. "Hyung!" he shrieked, practically launching himself at Woozi.

Woozi barely had time to pull his hand free from Hoshi's before Seungkwan wrapped him in a tight hug. "I missed you!" Seungkwan exclaimed, his voice dramatic as always. "Why didn't you come sooner? Do you know how boring it is without you?"

"I was busy," Woozi said, his tone flat, though he patted Seungkwan's back in a rare show of affection.

Finally pulling back, Seungkwan's eyes landed on Hoshi. He tilted his head, curiosity lighting up his features. "And who's this?" he asked, his tone slightly suspicious.

"Just a—" Woozi began, but Hoshi cut him off smoothly.

"We're seeing each other," Hoshi said, a smirk playing on his lips.

Seungkwan's jaw dropped, and his eyes darted between the two of them. "What?!" he squealed before tackling Woozi into another hug. "Hyung, you didn't tell me you had a boyfriend! And this boyfriend is hot, too!"

Woozi groaned, pushing Seungkwan off him, his face crimson. "Can you not?" he muttered, glaring at Hoshi, who looked entirely too pleased with himself.

Seungkwan, unbothered, turned his attention to Hoshi, latching onto his arm. "How did you do it? Seriously, how did you melt that rock?" he asked, gesturing dramatically toward Woozi. "We've been trying for years, and here you come, swooping in like it's nothing."

Hoshi chuckled, his free hand resting casually in his pocket. "What can I say? I've got a talent for handling tough cases."

Woozi groaned louder. "I regret everything."

Sunlight poured in through large windows, illuminating tables filled with pastries, coffees, and weekend gossip. Amid this warmth and chatter, Woozi and Hoshi sat side by side, the contrast between their personalities glaringly obvious. Woozi sat stiffly, arms crossed as if trying to shrink into himself, while Hoshi looked utterly unbothered, lounging with his arm draped casually over Woozi's chair.