The next morning, Yuuto stood in front of the mirror adjusting his collar. His new job at Julien's company had been going well—until now.
Even though Yuuto had already made it clear where his heart lay, Julien hadn't given up. He kept his distance at first, acting like a professional, but his eyes told a different story. Every time Yuuto walked into a room, Julien looked at him like a prize he hadn't finished chasing.
Yuuto sighed. "Why did I agree to work here?" he muttered, grabbing his bag.
---
Later that day, during lunch break, Yuuto stepped into the quiet conference room to check his messages. The door clicked shut behind him.
"Yuuto."
He froze.
Julien stood by the glass wall, suit impeccable, eyes unreadable.
Yuuto kept his voice calm. "I told you, Julien. It's over. Whatever you were hoping for—it never started."
Julien took a slow step forward. "Why him, Yuuto? Aiden's dying. You'll end up alone."
Yuuto flinched, but his glare sharpened. "And you think I'd choose you because of that? Love isn't a charity prize."
Julien's jaw clenched. "You deserve more. A future. I can give you that."
"I don't want you," Yuuto snapped. "You never saw me as a person. Just something you wanted to win."
Julien's eyes darkened. "I feel something for you. Is that such a crime?"
Yuuto moved to leave, but Julien grabbed his wrist.
"I'm not giving up."
Before Yuuto could pull away, the door burst open.
Aiden.
His voice cut like ice. "Take your hand off him. Now."
Julien froze.
Aiden strode in, fire in his eyes. "You touch him again, I'll destroy everything you've built."
"Aiden—" Yuuto tried to calm him.
But Aiden's fists were clenched. "You think I'm weak because I'm sick? Try me."
Julien hesitated… then let go. "You win this round."
Yuuto stepped between them. "There won't be another round."
Aiden took Yuuto's hand, leading him out of the room. His grip was tight—not possessive, but protective.
Once outside, Yuuto stopped him. "Are you okay?"
Aiden looked at him, eyes full of raw emotion. "He thinks I'm temporary. But I'm not. I'm yours. For as long as I'm breathing."
Yuuto smiled, heart pounding. "And I'm yours. Always."