That night in the ship was unpredictable. Secrets were slowly being revealed. It’s quite dangerous to be honest.

 

One on the move was the young officer roaming around to find Jun after finding out the letter he left on his pocket unknowingly. He’s got the letter with instructions on it. Since Jun wasn’t around anywhere, he started finding the document first. After that, he was instructed to give it to somebody.

 

On the other hand, the Ivanovs were secretly eyeing the young Cha. Gavril already called for his background and references to check.

 

Meanwhile, in their cabin, the Choi couple were still in cold war. Jeonghan had no intentions of having a conversation with his husband. Seungcheol, on the contrary, was itching to talk.

 

“You still plan to not talk?” Seungcheol asked. “You’ve met with Minghao earlier, what is your business with him?”

 

“Something personal. You will know soon.” preparing his jacket in case he gets cold outside. “If you need me, I will probably be with Jun at the deck.” assuming that the man would also be there.

 

Somehow, it woke Seungcheol up upon seeing his partner act at the moment. He’s nearly impossible to read. For the rest of their years together, for the first time, Seungcheol wanted to know deeply of him. How he decides, how he feels… Jeonghan was never seen out of control. Even when he bore and lost their son, he made sure he was in control. He was invincible but was he really? He wasn’t insulted by Jeonghan’s actions now that he recalled how his partner had been enduring his actions… It’s just that he was just really confused.

 

“I can’t take divorce.” Seungcheol briefly said after seeing Jeonghan going out. “If you like Jun so much… you can go freely to him but I can’t accept divorce.” as if he surrendered completely. He’s out of aces.

 

Jeonghan didn’t say a word and leave. Meeting the alerted Vernon on the hallway upon his appearance, he just reminded “Vernon, don’t forget your meals.” including one for his husband. “You can rest now. There’s no tension anyway. Don’t worry, I will be vigilant.”

 

“Yes, Vice President Choi. Have a good evening.” answered Vernon formally. Seeing his favorite boss in cold, Vernon’s trauma had gone back just like when he felt Seungcheol was going too far from him. He felt left alone. He was scared he’d lose Jeonghan from this war just like how he lost Seungcheol after Minhyuk’s death. He understood that Jeonghan has been in a lot of trauma right now. He just hope everything would be fine in the process.

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On the deck, Jeonghan stayed peacefully on his favorite spot. He was looking from a far when someone came unexpectedly.

 

“You must be tired.” stated Congressman Kim as he pressed himself to the railings beside Jeonghan. “This spot is kind of relaxing.”

 

“Mingyu!” Jeonghan exclaimed. “Can I help you with anything?”

 

Mingyu smiled as he inhaled the sea breeze. “I’m just here to relax just like you. I’ve been acting crazy lately, I don’t know why.” he chuckled. “I never consider taking an action story line in my life yet here I am having it for myself.”

 

Jeonghan was intrigued and asked with a smile. “I’ve never seen you like that. May I know why?... as a friend, at least. By the way, where is Eunwoo?”

 

“EunWoo is with the Ivnaovs. Business as per usual. Never got time with him alone when he’s around his business friends. I guess yours with Seungcheol too.”

 

“Yeah. He might be there.” Jeonghan scoffed. “Look at us! We have the same fate tonight.” He smiled endearingly to the poor congressman. “Must be tiring for you, huh?”

 

Mingyu smiled. “Unfortunate but I am still lucky I’m not alone in this.” chuckled. “Why are you out here? Something bothering you?”

 

Jeonghan smiled as he appreciated the man asking. “That’s sweet of you. EunWoo is lucky to have you.” looking at Mingyu, he replied “I am thinking of my child. I still dream of him.”

 

“Can’t blame you. Losing a child is just… I can’t imagine.”

 

“How about you and Eunwoo. Have you tried?”

 

“I want at least three but Eunwoo’s priority is different.”

 

“I see. Same here.”

 

“By the way, Jeonghan, I have an information that you know Minhyuk?”

 

Jeonghan was surprised. “Yes. Why?”

 

“You know he’s a friend of mine.” smiled the other. “He used to say that he’s in love with someone but he gave him to his brother because it’s impossible for him to have that person. He said that to me before he’s gone missing.” Mingyu scoffed and “He’s stupid to do that. He’s even got that ring.” Mingyu sighed as he looked at Jeonghan.

 

Jeonghan was confused. “What did he tell you?”

 

“Everything including your past just before he left. I know you are still moving to your goal. I guess Seungcheol is doing the same. Let me know if you need back-up. I help you.”

 

“I see. And what is the price?”

 

Mingyu smirked and was very pleased how Jeonghan played for it. “You are definitely not just a beauty, Jeonghan. Seungcheol owe you a lot.”

 

“Sure he does.” Jeonghan smiled. “Tell me what you want.”

 

“I want my wife and Jihoon. I want the truth about them.”

 

“I get why you are doubting Jihoon but your partner?”

 

“People tell me he’s more to being a partner and a businessman. I couldn’t follow anymore.”

 

“They are big for a man like me, Mingyu.”

 

“I can see how you negotiate. I am expecting a lot from you. Besides, protecting you here and there comes with a high price.”

 

“Can I get your full support, Congressman Kim?”

 

“Of course. Go crazy if you want. I cannot go any crazier. Just tell me what you need.”

 

“I feel like spoiled.” teased the other. “Do you still love him?” asked Jeonghan referring to EunWoo.

 

“I don’t know him anymore.” arranging his suit to leave “Let’s keep in touch. We can use the donation as connection. God job. Good night, Jeonghan.”

 

“Same to you, Mingyu.”

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Seungkwan was wondering along the corridor when he came across Chan with Jihoon. He waited until he had the chance to talk to the younger. It was however, another impossible deal since Chan came with Jihoon inside a business class hall. For VIPs only.

 

“You miss him again.” Whispered Vernon coming from his back out of nowhere.

 

Seungkwan got startled. “Dear lord!” holding onto his chest. “Vernon!” scolded him.

 

“Did I startle you again?”

 

“Of course you did!” said Seungkwan pissed. “Why do you keep coming out of nowhere?”

 

Vernon didn’t answer that question but he’s handed Seungkwan a liquor. “Want to drink together?” With a bottle of good wine to share. “There’s no joy of drinking without a company.”

 

“Seungcheol hyung?”

 

“He needs space, he said.”

 

“I see. Still fighting, huh?” wondered the other.

 

Vernon became sadden. “Jeonghan hyung seemed very mad.”

 

Seungkwan thought “Maybe because of Seungcheol hyung’s relationship with EunWoo?”

 

“They are intimate.” Vernon clicked his tongue.

 

“And that’s a very clear reason why Jeonghan hyung is very mad.”

 

“It’s different this time.” said Vernon very disappointed.

 

Seungkwan was very puzzled upon Vernon’s answer.

 

“Why is it I am getting a weird expression from you, Vernon? You should be mad!”

 

“I am frustrated.”

 

Seungkwan was still unconvinced, he uttered a sarcasm “Right. I forgot how you’d react to extreme things.” Looking away made him notice Chan meeting Soon Young in the hallway. Soon enough, there was Wonwoo crossing along the hall. Seungkwan frowned and was about to get suspicious with too much coincidences that day.

 

“Ver-“ before he could even complete his sentence, he felt something soft closing his lips with the taste of liquor on it.

 

Vernon. Is. Drunk.

 

That kiss sure made Seungkwan utter no more.

 

“Let’s drink together. In my room.” Vernon smirked widely like a craving monster for something.

 

Seungkwan knew he was in danger, but he could resist himself especially with a kiss so provoking.

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Meanwhile, Seungkwan went out to the room after leaving Vernon asleep, , under a messy blanket. He went out as if nothing happened. Sleekly arranging his suit back like it was never tainted before the pleasure.

 

He went into a different path, roaming around while observing. He saw his boss, Jeonghan, down the deck to secure that everything was in the right settings before he roved further. After a while, he saw Chan again. This time, he was alone in the dark.

 

“Hey.” Called Seungkwan. However, the moment they met eyes, a gun was also pointed on his body.

 

“Stay away.” Said the younger with his sharp eyes.

 

“I just want to talk.”

 

“I can’t trust you anymore.” Replied the other.

 

“Why are you connected to the Lee? You need something, are you?”

 

“That’s none of your business.”

 

“I will wait, Chan. Let’s reconcile.”

 

“You think I will forgive you after mom died? How dare you show your face to me again!” accused the younger.

 

“I’m sorry.”

 

“Get lost!”

 

“Why are you meeting Minghao’s body guard?” asked Seungkwan in utmost eagerness.

 

“We don’t have any connection.” Defended Chan. “Just met him by the hall and give boss’ order.”

 

“Liar!” Accused the older. “You know that it is hopeless to lie to me.”

 

“You are the one to lie!”

 

Looking at the gun coldly by a trembling man in front of him. “You cannot shoot me, Chan.” He smirked. “I know you.”

 

“You don’t know that.” Chan threatened. “I’ve changed.”

 

Seungkwan moved forward. Slowly. “Do it.” He challenged the younger. “Do it!”

 

Chan, on the other hand, was biting his lips.

 

Seungkwan smirked. “Still innocent, our little Chan.” Until he walked closer until the distance had closed in between the gun and his chest. “You are getting yourself in danger, Chan. If you have the desire to kill, pull that trigger as soon as you have secured the target.” Gently putting down the gun. “This toy is not suitable for you.”

 

“Shut up!” With a great disappointment Chan clasped his hand tight as well as his jaw.

 

Vernon was looking from a far. He followed him after he thought he was asleep. He knew Seungkwan was still distracted with the governor’s young right hand. From another corner, there he saw Gavril Ivanov with Jun Moon.

 

Moving forward, someone called him gently. “Mr. Chwe.”

 

Vernon was surprised with the sudden call since he’s too focused on the other side. It was Vera who called him as she added Vera “They will look suspicious in any angle.” She chuckled giving her most honest opinion to the other. “Do you need to talk to one of them?”

 

Vernon bowed as he greeted the lady. “No, Ms. Vera. It just happened that they suddenly came up to my curiosity.”

 

“We are worth the curiosity, Vernon.” She teased. “Since you are here, have you seen your pretty boss?”

 

“What do you need from our Vice President, Ms. Vera?”

 

“I was just thinking to have a little good time with him since he’s the most sensible person around here. And somehow, I need to talk about business. Is he open for that?”

 

“I think so. He’s open to everything.”

 

Vera giggled. “I quite notice that.”

 

“He’s probably in the deck. It’s his favorite part of the ship.”

 

“Thank you. It’s quite boring inside.”

 

Vernon smiled indicating he had the same feeling. Although he was wondering what business could Vera talk with his favorite boss?

 

Escaping the shades, Vera’s eyes met with Wonwoo’s. She must admit that he had her attention along with the person she’s fairly interested in, Soon Young. They were spending the night together, however, not very closely just the opposite spot to where Jeonghan was sitting.

 

“It’s an unusual happening.” She murmured passing both men to her first agenda. Reaching Jeonghan, she asked. “May I interrupt?”

 

“Sure. What can I do for you, Ms. Vera?”

 

“I know who you really are, Vice President.” Getting started right straight to the point.

 

“What?” Jeonghan became alerted.

 

“I know you can still recognize me, Nikita.” Vera smirked.

 

Jeonghan gulped in anxiety. He became speechless. There’s the fear of getting caught and he’s not ready for it.

 

“Don’t worry. You always have my side.” Stated the older woman. “How was your life, Vice President?” smiling as if she was relieved seeing an important person of her life. “You’ve grown very beautiful and intelligent.” She smiled.

 

“Vera.” The other called. Still not sure what to happen next but he felt he missed her so much. “I’ve had the best time of my life.”

 

“Happy to hear that.”

 

“How did you know?” finally having the curiosity of asking.

 

“We are given a clue by father’s hired person on how to find you tonight.”

 

“What?” Jeonghan stated nervously.

 

“Don’t worry, I don’t think they’re too smart to notice. Their mind was all over the place and took another man for you.” Jeonghan was looking pale so Vera added “I will buy time. By the way, why did you return?”

 

“I’m not sure. I feel that I haven’t cut the ties completely.” Looking at his sister. “How have you been?”

 

“You know I can survive the hell more than you two. I miss you both.”

 

“I miss you too.” Smiled Jeonghan. “You look so gorgeous! May I know why you don’t have someone?”

 

“I chose not to. There’s nothing to choose from to be honest.”

 

“I can push Atty. Lee towards you if you like him. You like him?” he teased.

 

Vera chuckled as she appeared to be a proud sister when she said “I can see you’ve taken that from me.”

 

“We can get out of dad’s shadows, Vera. I hope we can win this.”

 

“I believe in you. If you need anything, call me... we can call it a business meeting.” Vera winked. “Do you trust me?’

 

“Are you kidding me? The first time I saw you, I wanted to embrace and reveal myself to you.” both smiled and fill up the years that was taken away from them.

 

Finding the two quiet men enjoying the view in their own perspective. Jeonghan called for them in delight as he invited Vera for a formal introduction.

 

“Wonwoo, you’ve met Ms. Vera and Soon Young, this is Ms. Vera Ivanov.”

 

Soon Young was in extreme owe. “Such a beautiful lady.” He muttered his admiration unintentionally.

 

Soon Young was cute. Vera could feel his vibe. Recklessly adorable.

 

“Sorry. It’s just that, you appear like a goddess, Ms. Vera.” Said Soon Young after realizing that he was misbehaving. “My name is Yoon Soon Young, brother of Jeonghan.”

 

“Nice to meet you!” Smiled Vera with admiration in her eyes. She was kind of lured to pinch the younger’s cheeks. He’s different in person than on stage. “You have such another image on stage, young man.”

 

“Thank you. I thought it was a little awkward.”

 

“Not at all.” Replied Vera noticing a gash of sparkle on Soon Young’s ears. Jeonghan noticed it too. He was furious because he thought that it was inappropriate to pierce ears. He’s a man!

 

“Ya! Who told you to pierce your ears like that?” scolded Jeonghan despite people around them.

 

Soon Young was holding his earring to protect from pulling. “Jun hyung supported me with my decision. He said it looks stylish. Besides, this is a gift from dad. He said it’s mine.” Defended the other.

 

“Remove that, right now!”

 

“No!” until the two quarreled.

 

Wonwoo sighed but he somehow enjoyed the peacefulness of the night despite the quarrel among the brothers. Same with Vera.

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HALLWAY_ CHOI’S ROOM

 

KNOCK! KNOCK! The door rang.

 

Seungcheol wasn’t expecting anybody. Remembering how his wife got poisoned the last time he entertained a free champaigne, Seungcheol became alerted. He prepared his gun in case.

 

“Who’s there?” asked Seungcheol by the door.

 

“Dinner, sir.”

 

“I didn’t order any.”

 

“It is Vice President Choi’s order, sir. Should I serve it later?” asked the waiter.

 

Seungcheol was confused. Indeed Jeonghan would always do that whenever they have fights or busy day.

 

The waiter called again. “What should I tell Vice President Choi, sir? He told me that I have to make sure you eat.”

 

That’s the kind of sentence he normally expect whenever that happens. At that time, Seungcheol was confident it was Jeonghan who ordered. However, as soon as he opened the door, the waiterjumped on him and grabbed him tight without able to reveal his face.

 

“Choi Seungcheol. You’ve created quite a big mess.” The mysterious man on waiter’s uniform locked the door as soon as possible with both him and Seungcheol, along with the person who followed in a short while wearing an elegant suit.

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NIGHT_ARRIVAL AT THE PORT_

 

It was late night. The event was obviously successful. The Moon family had closed the evening with a calming greeting as they go altogether to their cars.

 

Inside a car with Jun and Lancelot on it, there was a little conversation saying “Forget about the revenge first.” said Lancelot in a stern voice.

 

Jun was surprised but he still persist. “It was our deal, dad.”

 

“There’s been a movement, son. You cannot touch Nikita yet. Not until the wedding between Xu and Ivanov are over.”

 

“Isn’t it the reason why we are doing this? For revenge?” argued Jun gritting his teeth.

 

“You are getting impatient… It is an order, Valentin. We cannot move just yet.”

 

“You didn’t train me for this, dad!” losing his control over his anger.

“It is to keep you safe. You father wouldn’t want this.”

 

“But I want this!”

 

“Stop, Valentin! We are done with this.” ordered the older. “You are going back to London while things are being arranged.”

 

“No!”

 

“Then, I don’t have a choice.”

 

After hearing his’ adoptive father’s words, Jun felt like dozing off with the handkerchief covering his mouth. Before he lost consciousness, he had a glimpse on a small yacht near the port where they had stopped the car.

 

“Don’t let him out until I say so.” ordered Lancelot to the guard carrying the poor Jun.

 

“Understood… And what if he managed to escape?”

 

“Kill him before he does something bad.” With a gaze of cold like ice, the old man went back to the car and drove home.

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Meanwhile Jeonghan was waiting for his husband just by the deck. The couple had to stay until all the guests alight the ship out of courtesy to their guests and clients.

 

In a while, Vernon was seen running towards his boss out of fear.

 

“Where is Seungcheol?” asked Jeonghan worriedly.

 

Vernon touched Jeonghan by the elbow, as if forcibly asking Jeonghan to follow him. “Hyung, we will go ahead first.”

 

“And how about Seungcheol and Seungkwan?” asked Jeonghan with puzzled expression on how Vernon acted in rush. “What is happening?” added him in anxiety.

 

“I asked Seungkwan to get Seungcheol’s car after running some documents for me. Seungcheol hyung has business to attend to.”

 

Looking suspicious, he looked Vernon in the eye. “Don’t you dare lie to me, Vernon.” Thinking that anything could happen inside the ship like the last time, especially with men like Minghao and Kai inside the ship. Jeonghan feared that they might have found out either of the two reasons. One was finding out Seungcheol was the one exposing them and second was finding out that he was Nikita Ivanov.

 

“He ordered me this, hyung. No questions ask.”

 

“Vernon, I swear I-“

 

“Hyung, Seungcheol hyung is fine. I am more worried about you. Now, if you may, let us go home now.”

 

Jeonghan followed him to the car full of worries. On the other hand, Vernon seemingly noticed Jeonghan being uneasy with the situation he said “Seungcheol hyung said he’ll be meeting you at any restaurant you want to eat.” with a smile on his face.

 

It was a quiet drive when Vernon suddenly interrupted “Hyung, can I ask you a question?”

 

Jeonghan was attentive to his beloved body guard. “Sure.”

 

“What made you hate Seungcheol hyung this time?” asked Vernon nervously as he knew that it was not his position to ask.

 

Jeonghan, on the other hand, placed a sweet triumphant smile on his lips and answered “I hate to reveal my secrets but I will tell you. The reason why I acted mad is because if I show Seungcheol how I hate him, the more he’ll come to me.”

 

Vernon was amazed. It really showed who the wiser one in the relationship was.

 

“It is also a warning, Vernon.” added Jeonghan looking by the window.