Chapter 28:

*.☽.*

“Park Hae Won.”

I froze for about a couple of seconds before I was able to get myself to turn around and look at him. As expected, I could only stare at him. He seemed intimidating wearing a navy blue bomber jacket over a black inner, jeans, and sneakers. I mean yes, he was wearing casual clothes but he’s somehow got an authoritative aura. I guess a manager should.

My throat suddenly felt dry, not knowing whether to introduce myself or something since he just called me by my complete name.

“Old rose dress, denim jacket that’s quite big for her, black bucket hat...and…” He trailed off as he looked at me intently. “Beautiful.”

“What?” I muttered, surprised by his word.

“He pretty much remembered every detail about you perfectly.” He answered which still left me a bit confused. “He said I should look for someone wearing like what you’re exactly wearing and insisted that you’re beautiful. So, I guess you’re Park Hae Won.”

I nodded as I continued to look at him, still a bit taken aback by his presence. Then he smiled subtly and it came like a shower of relief to me. At least he didn’t appear and looked angry at me or something.

“I’m Kang Hyun Seok.” He introduced me as he offered a hand which I hesitantly took. “Baekhyun’s Manager.” His voice suddenly went low in volume as he mentioned his name.

After shaking his hand for a brief moment, I took a deep breath and mustered every ounce of courage I ask to speak in front of Baekhyun’s manager.

“W-where is he?”

He didn’t reply but looked around instead.

“I guess I’ll tell you about it in the car.” He stated as he pointed at the car parked a few feet away from us.

He led the way but I was too reluctant to follow him. I saw him glance back and stopped on his feet when he found out that I didn’t move.  He came back and stopped in front of me once more.

“I’m sorry I just don’t…” I trailed off as I didn’t want to sound rude trying to tell him that I don’t trust anyone but Baekhyun.

“Trust me?” He told me, finishing my statement.

I guess, I was that obvious again.

“Honestly, I don’t really know what to tell you exactly for you to believe me but I’m pretty sure he’s going to kill me if something bad happens to you Hae Won.” He informed. “I promise I’ll give the answer to your question in the car.” He added.

When I still didn’t move, he proceeded to take his phone out and called someone before handing the phone to me.

“Baby.” The person on the other line said and I was sure the voice belonged to Baekhyun. “I’m so sorry I couldn’t come back for you. Please go with Manager Kang for now. I promise I’ll come to meet you as soon as possible.”


*.☽.*

When we got in the car, Manager Kang immediately revved the engine and it instantly got me worried. I panicked a bit, my mind rattled at the thought of where he was going to take me. But then again, Baekhyun trusted him so I better do the same thing.

“He said he couldn’t take you home so I’m going to drive you to a hotel where you can spend the night.” He told me right away.

Okay, Park Hae Won. Calm down. I convinced myself.

“Is he okay?”

“He’s fine. He was summoned to the company.” He said, momentarily taking his attention off the road to look at me. “Actually I have been trying to get him to go there since this morning but I’m guessing he was still with you?”

“Yeah,” I uttered, not a hundred percent sure if it was the right thing to do.

“When I finally got a call, the first thing he did was tell me the address of the café, described you, and asked me to come and get you…” He paused as he turned right. “Of course, I told him that I couldn’t do it since I have to go with him to the company as soon as possible, and you know what he told me?”

I didn’t say anything but waited for his next words.

“He said, there’s no way he’s going to show up in the company without knowing you’re safe. He even said that if I don’t do it, he’ll do it himself…but we both know it’ll be risky since he also mentioned that some people recognized him.”
 

*.☽.*

7:45 PM

We arrived at a very fancy hotel. We were in the lobby and Manager Kang was talking to the receptionist while I roam my attention around the place. It was just like the one Lizzie and I had when we were in Seoul the last time. There were not really a lot of people inside, only a few and they looked as fancy as the hotel.

I intended to talk to Manager Kang and tell him to go to another place less fancy but when I turned to him, he signaled me to go since it seemed like he was already done booking a room for me. I hesitated but I guess I didn’t have any choice.

I followed him until we got in the elevator. He pressed 38 and it must be where my room was, of course.
It was really awkward being alone with Baekhyun’s manager so I was thankful when about three people joined us on the 21st floor.

When we reached the 38th floor, he led me to the seventh door on the left. He opened the door for me and I was instantly welcomed by a very expensive-looking room. It was spacious and had a very pretty living room. There was also a fascinating tempered glass wall that allowed me to see the beautiful city lights of Seoul.

“I guess this is a bit too much for me Manager Kang.” I finally told him. “I’m fine with a less expensive place.”

He smiled and I noticed how comforting it was. This was probably why Baekhyun referred to him as an older brother. His aura felt like one.

“Baekhyun made it clear to give you the best. I don’t want him nagging me later for doing otherwise.” He told me, shrugging his shoulders.  “I also already ordered your dinner so they’ll probably serve it anytime.”

“Thanks.”

“Oh by the way, here.” He said handing me a white paper bag. “He said to get you there.”

I hesitated before opening the bag and found a pair of powder blue, silk pajamas.

“Oh gosh, he should really stop making other people buy clothes for me,” I said, my cheeks heating in the process. “This is so embarrassing.”

I heard him laugh.

“That man loves hard. You’re in good hands Hae Won.”
I surely didn’t know how to respond to that so I just smiled at him.

He didn’t stay much long telling me that he need to go to the company and join Baekhyun.

“It’s nice to meet you Hae Won.”

I didn’t really know it was a good thing.

“I’m sorry if I caused you trouble.”

“No. It’s fine. I can clearly see why Baekhyun is willing to fight everyone for you.” He said, ending his statement with a smile before finally leaving.


*.☽.*

1:36 AM

I didn’t know how long had I been asleep already when I heard knocks coming from the door. I checked the clock and it said 1:36 in the morning.

Who could it be?
Manager Kang?
Baekhyun?

My heart almost leaped at the thought of Baekhyun coming over but he’d probably be so tired from meetings and rehearsals. I walked towards the door and right before I unlocked the door, I peeked through the peephole and almost held my breath who it was.

Baekhyun.

When I opened the door for him, he welcomed me with a gentle smile on his face. He was wearing a black padded jacket and a black cap. He had a paper bag with him which I believed must be my things from his car.

“Hey, Baby.” He greeted before stepping inside.

He grabbed my hand right after I locked the door. He left the paper bag on the couch and walked towards the bedroom. He sat on the edge of the bed as he took off his jacket and his shoes before pulling me closer until I was standing between his legs, his arms around me, hugging me with his head right against my stomach.

“What are you doing here Baek?” I asked him. “How did you come here? Is it safe for you to be here? Are you sure no one recognized you on your way up here?” I added, aware that I was interrogating him.

I felt him chuckle.

“I miss you.” It was all he said, his embrace tightening around me. “That’s why.”

I bit my lower lip as I struggled to formulate another question after his heartwarming response.

“Uhm…are you hungry?”

He moved his head sideways.

“I just miss you. That’s all.” He said, looking up to meet my eyes.

He pouted and blinked his eyes a couple of times. My lips curved, evidently pleased and falling for his antics. But then despite his overflowing cuteness right now, I couldn’t help but notice how tired he seemed to be. His eyes were a bit droopy and his voice was so gentle. Not to mention, it’s already past one in the morning.

“You must be tired. Did you come from rehearsals?”

His response came in the form of a nod.

I brought my hands to cup his face and I watched how he closed his eyes.

“Oh, my poor baby.” I blurted out, totally unaware of the endearment coming out of my own mouth.

His eyes flew open, surprised.

“Did you just call me…baby?” He asked with a hit of teasing in his tone.

I gulped. Speechless. Well, that was a first. My cheeks started heating and became too conscious of the way he was staring at me right now. And that subtle smile on his beautiful lips was breathtaking. Oh god.

“You did.” His smile went wider. “You just called me baby.” He added cockily. “You should do it more often. In fact, you can also call me Daddy if you want-”
 
“Baekhyun!”

I unconsciously hit him on the arm, cutting his statement before he laughed aloud.

“What? I’m just saying…” He replied, throwing me an incredulous look as he pulled me to sit on his leg.

We remained looking at each other for a few seconds before he opened his mouth to speak once more.

“I’m really sorry about this afternoon. I should have come back for you.” He apologized as he leaned his head on my shoulder.

“It’s fine Baek,” I replied reaching for his free hand. “There was no way you’d be able to come back without people recognizing you again,” I added with a reassuring smile.

He tilted his head up to face me once more.

“I told you to stop making me fall in love with you more, didn’t I?” His response was totally unexpected.

I opened my mouth to say something but none came out as I was still trying to process what he just said. Then he chuckled, and brought his hands to my head, tilting them closer to his before planting a quick kiss on my lips.

“I’m just kidding. Go on. Keep doing it.” He stated, grinning. “I really don’t mind falling in love with you over and over again.”

“Crazy,” I muttered unable to hide my amusement.

After a few minutes of just sitting silently, he yawned. He was obviously sleepy now and I was too.

“I just want to sleep next to you.” He said, his voice just above a whisper.

I smiled at him before standing on my feet so he could climb on the bed.

Oh gosh, soft hours here we go.

He immediately closed his eyes the second his back touched the bed giving me the luxury to watch him for the next few moments. Then he opened his eyes and immediately met mine, a look of wonder on his face probably because I was still in the same spot. He didn’t say anything but lifted his arms as if asking for a hug.

“Come here.” He told me with the gentlest voice ever.

I couldn’t help but smile at how soft he looked at that very moment. He was wearing a plain black shirt and jeans, and white socks. He looked so handsome in his disheveled hair and his sleepy voice was just irresistible.

I managed to turn off the lights, only leaving the bedside lamp on before joining him on the bed. And as soon as I was beside him, I felt him draping an arm over my waist before pulling me closer until his breathing was already audible to my ear.

His warmth, which I happen to confirm a lot of times to be one of my favorite things in the world, was totally comforting. I was undeniably delighted that he came over and he’s right next to me now.

“Baek?” I uttered, my attention on his closed eyes.

“Hmmm…” He murmured.

“Thanks for coming over.”

He responded by planting a light kiss between my eyes. 

It was dark inside the room but I could somehow see his profile due to the dim light coming from the bedside lamp. I stared at him to my heart’s content and I couldn’t help but smile as I also listened to his steady breathing. I love watching him sleep. I loved how he’s able to take a rest like this. He looked peaceful.

“I went home.” He uttered, out of nowhere without opening his eyes. “But it was lonely.” He added, gently rubbing my back with his hand. “I couldn’t shake the thought of you being alone somewhere too, so I decided to come over.”

He’s so sweet. I was pretty sure I was blushing, thankfully he wouldn’t be able to see it.

“You should also stop making me fall in love with you more too, you know,” I said, trying my best to copy how he said it a while ago.

He let out a soft laugh and I did too before I moved closer, snuggling against him, my head on his chest.

“Sleep now baby, I love you.” He murmured as he kissed me on the head.

“Love you.”

“Goodnight, princess.”

Princess?
Did he just call me princess?

Yes, he did.


*.☽.*

I wasn’t sure how long it had been or how short of a period of time we had slept when I felt him move beside me. I sensed that he was about to leave so I placed an arm over him, wanting to stop him.

“You’re leaving already?” I managed to ask in a very sleepy voice, eyes still closed.

He placed a hand over my arm, his fingers grazing my skin.

“Yes, baby. I gotta go. I’m sorry.” He answered.

It made me feel sad right away.

“But you only slept for a couple of hours,” I told him, refusing to open my eyes.

“It’s fine baby, I have to be there at five so I have to leave now.” He explained.

I struggled to open my eyes so I could look at him this time.

“Are you going home today?” He asked, brushing my hair away from my face.

I nodded.

He tilted his head down. “I might not be able to drive you home. I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine Baek. You don’t have to worry about me.” I assured him.

I motioned to sit so he could start getting ready. I watched him get off the bed and I did the same thing so I could switch on the lights. He was putting on his shoes while I retrieved his padded jacket from the couch.

I walked him towards the door, my heart heavy at the thought of him leaving once more. He was walking ahead of me and stopped right before the door and leaned on the wall, staring at me.

“I hate doing this.” He stated as he reached for my hand.

“I’ll miss you,” I mumbled, my attention on his fingers playing with my hand.

He didn’t say anything but pulled me into a gentle hug. His hands draped around my back while mine were wrapped around his body.

Honestly, this wasn’t helping. This would absolutely make me miss him even more and I knew I had to deal with it the moment he was gone.

“I’ll come to visit you before the tour kicks off. I don’t know how or when but I’ll find a way, okay?”

I nodded when he finally let go of me. We were facing each other now and there was a sudden rush of separation anxiety taking over me.

“Take care of yourself, Baek. You should eat on time and try to take a quick break when you’re tired. I know you’re going to be very busy but please don’t overdo yourself, okay?”

Yes, I probably sounded nagging but I couldn’t help it.

It was his turn to nod, a beautiful smile taking over his lips.

“Will you text me when you get home?” He asked.

I nodded.

“And make sure not to get lost okay?”

I smiled. “I’ll try my best.”

He let out a small laugh as he ruffled my hair.
I helped him wear his padded jacket before putting on his cap.

“Are you driving?”

“No, I came with Mr. Yoo. He’s probably waiting for me in the car.”

“What? He was waiting for you all this time?”

“Yeah. He distracted people in the lobby so I could sneak in. I’ll contact him on my way down to do the same thing to avoid people from recognizing me.”

I shook my head sideways amazed at the fact that his life was really like a movie.

“Okay, just be careful.”

“Okay, I’m gonna go now.” He informed me but didn’t move.

I looked at him, wondering. Then he titled his head to his right, lifted a finger, and pointed at his cheek. I couldn’t help but smile before I tiptoed so I could kiss him. But when my lips were about to touch his cheek, he turned to face me making my lips land on his mouth.

I was a bit surprised but didn’t have the time to pull away when he placed a hand on the back of my head to hold it steady while he kissed me softly. His satin-like lips taking over my full attention for a few seconds while the kiss lasted. When his lips left my mouth, he proceeded to plant a light kiss on the corner of my mouth.

“Wait for me.” He breathed before finally pulling away. “Go back to sleep now Baby. I’ll call you later.”

I could only nod since my heart felt like being crushed at the moment.

I hate this. I hate saying goodbye to him.

The next moment I knew, he was already opening the door and then he was gone.


*.☽.*

I walked back to the bed trying my hardest to ignore the feeling in my chest. I immediately faced his side of the bed. His absence instantly made known as I extended an arm on the mattress he previously occupied.

Closing my eyes, I pictured him out.
I did it for a couple of minutes until I sleep thankfully won over me.


*.☽.*

I left Seoul after lunchtime.

The train just left the station about half an hour ago. I was sitting right next to the window and was watching the view outside when I felt my phone vibrate inside the denim jacket I was wearing, which I must note to be Baekhyun’s.

 

Byun:
Did you leave?
1:38 PM

Me:
Yes, Baek. I’m on the train now.
1:40 PM

Byun:
Sad.
1:40 PM

My lips automatically curved as I imagined him pouting.

Me:
Yes, sad.
1:41 PM

Byun:
I’ll see you soon baby, I promise.
1:42 PM

Me:
M’kay….
1:42 PM

Byun:
…?
1:42 PM

Me:
Baby…
1:42 PM

He sent me three heart emojis and I swear I smiled like crazy.

Byun:
Did you see it?
1:43 PM

My forehead creased.

Me:
See what?
1:43 PM

Byun:
Check Gallery.
1:44 PM

Gallery? Did he mean my phone gallery?
I was about to tap on the icon of my phone gallery when I received another message from him.

Byun:
I gotta go back to rehearsals now. Don’t forget to text me when you get home.
01:45 PM

I wasn’t able to reply anymore since curiosity was what took over me. I went back to my gallery and found an unfamiliar video. I fished for my earphones inside my bag right away. I tapped on it and it started playing. It was a video of him playing the piano. He probably had my phone placed in the corner where I could both see him and the piano keys. His beautiful fingers were busy with the keys, his eyes closed as if he was feeling the melody.

The melody was so good and when he started singing, his honey voice was.

Your eyes, I could look at them for a lifetime and I’d still long for you
Your lips, I could kiss them over and over again, please tell m