Lucas watched the couple from across the street—Aiden holding Yuuto's hand protectively as they stepped out of a café. The way Aiden looked at Yuuto, like he was his entire world, made Lucas's stomach turn.
That smile used to be mine.
That gentleness… used to be mine.
He slipped his phone back into his pocket and turned away before they could see him. He had work to do.
This wasn't just jealousy.
This was war.
---
Later that evening, Lucas called Aiden.
"Yo, busy CEO man," he said cheerfully.
Aiden chuckled. "Always. What's up?"
"I have a job opening. Maybe Yuuto can help? He mentioned he wanted to try something on his own. Send him to my company tomorrow."
A pause.
"You sure?" Aiden asked.
"Of course." Lucas's voice was smooth. "You trust me, don't you?"
Aiden smiled softly. "I do."
Lucas ended the call, the smile vanishing from his face.
That's your first mistake, Aiden.
---
The next day, Yuuto stepped into Lucas's company. His oversized sweater made him look smaller, more vulnerable.
Lucas greeted him with a warm smile. "Welcome, Yuuto."
Yuuto bowed politely. "Thank you for this chance."
"I'm happy to help," Lucas replied, walking him through the glass halls. "But let me be clear… I don't want just an employee."
Yuuto looked confused. "Huh?"
Lucas leaned in a little too close, voice low. "I want to know you. Deeply. Personally."
Yuuto stepped back, startled. "I—I'm with Aiden."
Lucas smiled, cold and calculated. "Oh, I know."
---
That night, Aiden asked, "How was the new job?"
Yuuto hesitated. "It was fine. Lucas is… friendly."
Aiden smiled, but his eyes searched Yuuto's face.
And Lucas's voice echoed in his mind: You trust me, don't you?
For the first time… Aiden wasn't sure.