𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐞

Episode 62

Dunk sat on the balcony, the cool evening breeze brushing against his skin. His eyes were fixed on the horizon, but his mind was completely clouded with thoughts of Joong.

It had been weeks since Joong started acting like this—one moment affectionate and warm, the next cold and distant. Dunk didn't know what he had done wrong. Every time he tried to talk about it, Joong would either dismiss him or act like nothing was wrong.

Earlier that day, Joong had been in a surprisingly good mood. He had hugged Dunk from behind in the kitchen, whispered sweet nothings into his ear, and even offered to take him out for dinner. But as soon as Dunk mentioned Jade's name casually during the conversation, Joong's expression had darkened instantly. The warmth in his eyes was replaced by that same cold stare Dunk had come to hate.

Dunk (to himself): "What is his problem?"

Dunk sighed, rubbing his temples in frustration. Joong's behavior was starting to mess with his head.

When Joong was warm, it felt like they were back to being newlyweds—Joong would cuddle him, kiss him, and make him feel like the most important person in the world. But then, without warning, Joong would shut down. He would ignore Dunk's texts, avoid eye contact, and sometimes even sleep on the far side of the bed.

Dunk (clenching his fists): "I can't keep doing this."

The door to the balcony slid open. Joong walked in, dressed in his usual silk pajamas. He glanced at Dunk but didn't say anything.

Joong: "Why are you sitting here? Come to bed."

Dunk didn't move. He kept his gaze fixed on the horizon.

Dunk (coldly): "I'm fine here."

Joong frowned and walked over to him. He sat down beside Dunk and reached for his hand, but Dunk pulled away.

Joong (annoyed): "What now?"

Dunk turned to face him, eyes filled with frustration.

Dunk: "That's what I want to know! What now, Joong? What's wrong with you?"

Joong's face hardened. "What are you talking about?"

Dunk scoffed.

Dunk: "One minute you're sweet and loving, and the next minute you're treating me like some stranger. If I even mention Jade or the art studio, you shut down completely. I'm getting tired of this, Joong!"

Joong's jaw tightened. His eyes darkened.

Joong: "Maybe you're spending too much time with Jade."

Dunk's eyes widened in disbelief.

Dunk (incredulous): "Are you serious right now? You're jealous?"

Joong didn't answer. His silence was enough.

Dunk shook his head and stood up.

Dunk: "You know what? If you have a problem with me, say it. If you're angry, say it. If you want to push me away, just do it already—but stop playing these mind games, Joong! I'm not going to sit here and beg you to love me!"

Joong stood up too, his eyes flashing with anger.

Joong: "I'm not playing mind games."

Dunk laughed bitterly.

Dunk: "Really? Then what would you call this?"

Joong took a step closer, his face just inches from Dunk's.