| Antidote | Poison 2nd Book |

ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝟠

The banquet. An annual event where big-name executives and C.E.Os would gather together for a night of recognition and celebration of a successful year. It was a grand night of luxury, filled with designer liquor, juicy gossip and a never-ending supply of cocktail foods, the cream of society all gathered together for one night.

This was going to be the first time that Hongjoong had ever attended an event like this, so he had no idea what to expect from it. A part of him was a bit uneasy, knowing he would probably recognize most of the people there, as he had mingled with various businessmen and women while working for Seonghwa. His image had become notorious by association, everyone knew who he was, everyone knew his face. It would surely be an interesting night, but he knew he would be alright if he stayed at Yeosang's side the whole night.

With his arm hooked around Yeosang's arm, they walked in through a set of grand doors that led into a large ballroom. The banquet hall was lined with the grandest decor of golden trim and ivory, a large chandelier made of pure diamonds hung in the center. Press equipped with high definition cameras stood at the entrance, capturing photos of each person that walked in through the doors.

The sound of chatter and laughter blended in with the live band playing soft classical music for ambiance, the whole banquet hall screamed luxury and wealth.

Hongjoong could feel a looming sense of anxiety hanging in his gut, looking around at the sea of people as they made their way through the crowd. He caught a few glimpses from various people, reading the look of slight shock on their faces.

He tightened his grip on Yeosang's arm a bit as he became uncomfortable. "Yeosang... I don't know if I can be here..."

Yeosang looked over at the dark-haired male, turning to him with a smile and grabbing ahold of his shoulders. "Yes, you can. You're just fine, Joong. Don't worry about what people here think of you, alright?"

"That's easy for you to say..." Hongjoong took a glance around at everyone before looking back at Yeosang. "I've done business with more than half of these people here, they know who I am."

"And? You forget I've done business with most of these people as well. You have nothing to worry about." Yeosang reached up with both hands, bringing his face in close and kissing Hongjoong's forehead softly. "Let's introduce ourselves to those we don't know, blend in with the crowd, and we will be fine."

"Yeosang-"

"Joong." Yeosang looked into Hongjoong's eyes. "Relax... Let's just give it a shot, alright? Besides..." Yeosang brought his hands down to his lover's hips, tilting his head. "I think everyone needs to see the eye candy I brought with me tonight. And when we get home later... I'll unwrap this candy wrapper and make you forget all about it. Deal?" Yeosang gave a little smirk, one that always made Hongjoong melt.

Hongjoong bit down on his lip slightly, a small smile forming on his lips. "Alright... Deal."

"Good." Yeosang gave him a gentle peck on the lips. "Now let's go talk to the fine gentleman in the white suit over there." He said pointing to the older man in the corner. 

Hongjoong followed where Yeosang was pointing, taking in a deep breath as he hesitated. "Alright..."

Yeosang snaked an arm around the dark-haired male's waist, walking with him as they made their way over to the man. 

"Well, hello there. I do not believe I've seen you at this event before." Yeosang sparked up a conversation with the man, bowing his head subtly to be polite. "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Yeosang Kang, C.E.O of Kang Enterprise, and this is my lovely partner, Hongjoong Kim."

The man gave a friendly smile, nodding his head a bit. "Pleased to meet you both. I'm Victor Juarez, I'm a private investor for big-name companies and stockholders."