Chapter 47:

༺ ༻
 

SOUTH KOREA

06:03 AM

I blinked my eyes while I stare at my reflection in the mirror. I was inside the bathroom as I once again made the trip in here after feeling nauseous. I washed my face with my thoughts on the exact words the doctor told me yesterday when I visited the hospital after feeling sick for a few days.

“You are expecting a little one Haewon, Congratulations.”

I took a deep breath, remembering the joy it brought me right after I heard the confirmation. It was obvious that Baekhyun and I had been waiting for this moment to come. He’d been talking non-stop about having a little strawberry bub soon. Now it had finally come true. I’m pregnant.

My hands traveled to my stomach, my palms flat on my skin as I felt tears forming in my eyes before they unstoppably rolled down my cheeks. I inhaled a few deep breaths as I let out a small laugh and cried at the same time.

“Hi bub,” I muttered. “I promise I’ll be a good mom to you,” I added, sniffling unable to contain my emotions.

I stayed in front of the sink for a few more minutes before I decided to come out of the bathroom. Heading straight to the unoccupied bed, I reached for my phone. Since I received the news yesterday, I was tempted to call Baekhyun over and over again.

He was out of the country for an overseas schedule. He left a day before I knew about my condition. He won’t be back until Saturday. Aware that it was just Tuesday, my heart sank at the thought of a few more days without him.

After thinking about it through and through, I decided to tell him in person. I wanna see his face, his reaction when I finally tell him that our strawberry is on the way.

However, he knew that I had been feeling sick lately and he checked on me a lot while he was away. However today, my heart wanted to burst, wanting to hear his voice. I missed him so, so much.

I dialed his number and waited for him to pick up.

“Hey, Baby…” His voice was husky and sleepy.

“I miss you,” I said right away, biting my lower lip to stop myself from crying again.

Hearing his voice made me emotional all of a sudden.

I heard him smile and I could picture him perfectly.

“You know I miss you too, right?”

I nodded, not realizing that he won’t be able to see me.

“I hope you can come home sooner.” I couldn’t help but be honest. “I need you here,” I added with evident sadness in my tone.

“Hey, hey Baby.” He sounded alarmed. “Is everything okay? Did something happen…do you still feel sick? How do you feel now? Are you sure you’re taking care of yourself?”

His interrogation made me smile. I should quit making him worry like this, I thought.

“Everything is fine Baek, your wife is just being dramatic because she misses you so much,” I replied.

He exaggeratedly sighed in relief.

“I love it when you tell me you miss me. I’ll be home as soon as I can, I promise.”

“Hmm,” I noted as I nodded.

“Are you going to work today? Are you sure you feel better now?”

“Yeah. I’ll just meet with a client today to discuss the design for the building he owns.”

“Okay, just don’t overwork yourself.” He instructed. “And make sure to flash your wedding ring when you discuss, they should be aware that you’re married.”

“What.” I laughed at his remark.

“What? You’re the prettiest Interior designer in South Korea, I don’t want other men lining up to get your attention.” He reasoned out.

“That is so silly,” I commented, unable to suppress the smile on my lips. “Anyway, I’ll go get ready for work now,” I told him. “Be careful, okay?”

Being on the line with him for too long would only make me miss him more.

“Yes ma’am.” He responded. “Make sure to eat something before you leave.”

“I will. Bye. Love you.”

“Love you too Baby. See you soon.”

Feeling a bit better, I placed my phone on the bedside table.

“Now, let’s go to work strawberry,” I said, gently patting my lower abdomen.

I started working a week after our honeymoon which took place two months ago. The trip lasted for almost four weeks visiting a few countries in Europe. However, the most memorable ones were the time we spent in Italy, France, and Ireland.


*.☽.*

ITALY

Bel Paese

We stayed there for a week but mostly in Tuscany. A place on earth where everything seemed golden. Every part of it was both aesthetic and refreshing. The Italian culture was on display and the people were amazing. We rented a private property away from the busy parts of the city, prioritizing solitude over the mainstream. It was a two-story house overlooking the vast vineyards.

On the morning of our fourth day, I woke up on the bed without Baekhyun beside me. My thoughts were immediately on his whereabouts. I slowly got up, wearing his loose plain white shirt that reached mid-thigh. The floor was cool, making me more awake than I already was.

The first thing I saw was the dancing curtains hung on the entrance of the balcony. The air was fresh and a good thing to wake up to. Walking towards it, I shoved the curtains only to find that Baekhyun wasn’t there as well. Frowning, disappointed as I was looking forward to being welcomed by his smile like the previous mornings. I walked towards the rails where I rested my hands. I roamed my attention around hoping I’d find him somewhere but he was out of sight.

“Where did he go?” I muttered quietly. “Hmm.”

We had been inseparable this whole trip, so it was natural for me to look for him whenever he wasn’t around. Taking my thoughts off him for a moment, I focused on the view before my eyes. A sight that was worthy of anyone’s attention.

I stayed there to admire it for a few more minutes before I went back inside to wash my face, brush my teeth, and wear shorts that were only an inch longer than his shirt. I checked my phone for any message from him but there was none. I called him only to hear his phone ringing on the side of the bed. Sighing, I went back to the balcony once more, deciding to take another photo of the wondrous Tuscan view. I was busy choosing an angle when I sensed him join me by slipping his arms around my waist before a bunch of red poppies appeared before my eyes.

“Morning Baby.” He whispered as he rested his chin on my shoulder.

An automatic smile crossed my lips. It felt so good to finally have him next to me, his scent came like a rushing comfort. Taking the flowers from him, I turned around to face him, making my movements small just so I wouldn’t break the hug. With his hands still on my waist, I looked up at him to see my favorite thing in the morning. His smile.

“Good Morning.” I greeted him, my lips forming into an upward curve. “These are pretty.” Referring to the poppies. “Where did you get them?”

“On my way back here.” He replied as I felt his hands gently brush my back as he leaned over, taking a deep breath next to my head.

It was then I noticed that he had already taken a shower. He was wearing a plain grey shirt and sweatpants on. His hair was still slightly wet.  

“You got up so early, where did you go?” I wondered, resting my hands over his shoulders.

“Well, I went out for a quick run.”

“Why didn’t you wake me up?”

“Well…” He trailed off, lifting a hand to tuck one side of my hair behind my ear. “You were sound asleep earlier, so I didn’t wanna wake you up.” He reasoned out as he led us to the chair.

I was about to move to the other chair when he tugged on my hand and drew me closer to him, making me sit between his legs. His hands were around my waist again in no time.

“In fact, you were still gently sleeping when I came back to take a shower.” He said with a hint of a smile at the corners of his lips. “And I was this close…” He paused to show me his hand, his thumb and index finger almost touching, leaving a minimal distance between them. “This close to waking you up and asking you to join me.”

We both let out a small laugh at his remark while he pulled me closer just so he could rest his face near my neck.

“Why didn’t you?” I asked him, making it sound like I was hurt, looking away. “I guess you didn’t want it that much.”

He chuckled, giving my shoulder a small kiss. When I didn’t say anything, he held my chin and made me face him.

“Don’t you ever underestimate how much I want to take a shower with you?” He explained briefly. “But I knew I tired you pretty well last night.” He added, giving my arm a gentle squeeze.

Remembering last night, my cheeks slowly felt warm. I was sure that the slightest tinge of pink was visible in his eyes by now.

“So, I wanted to give you more time to take a rest.” He went on, giving me that eyebrow raise, brushing a thumb on my right cheek. “But then…I don’t mind taking a shower again with you if that’s what you want.”

I burst out laughing, knowing that he was teasing me now.

“No. It’s fine. We can do it some other time.” I told him as I leaned against his chest, stifling a smile.

“You’re right.” He agreed. “We have plenty of time to make love in the shower.” He added, emphasizing the words make love.

I could only laugh at his remark as he did the same until we fell silent for a few seconds. I focused on the flowers he gave me and admired how pretty they were.

“Did I hurt you?” He asked out of nowhere.

“Hmm?” I had to immediately straighten my seat to face him.

What is he talking about?

“Last night.” He added. “Did I hurt you?”

Oh.

I took a few seconds to just stare back at his brown orbs as he waited for me to say something. However, I gently shook my head sideways to answer his question.

“The only thing that you did was to make me feel loved,” I said, meaning every word I said.

There it went again, that magnetic pull. The next thing I knew, I was leaning towards him to give him a firm and steady kiss on the lips. While I did that, I felt his hands wrapping around me tighten, bringing me as close as I could be to him.

“That’s because I love you so much.” He told me after the short but meaningful kiss we shared.

“I know,” I replied, looking back at him. “I love you too,” I added before my eyes trailed to the flowers between us. “But, look what we’ve done to the poor flowers.”

The flowers were pressed between us when he held me closer. His eyes trailed on the poppies, then back to me before we burst out laughing together.

“I’ll get you another bunch later Baby.” He said in between his laughter.

He pulled me closer to him again until I snuggled against him.

*.☽.*

Later that day, we both got ready to visit some more places. I changed into a rust-colored, sleeveless dress that reached just above my knees, and paired it with some flat sandals. I also tied my hair with a hair scarf which earned a compliment from him telling me that I looked pretty in it.

We visited a famous vineyard restaurant nearby. There were two dining areas was located on the top, which had a view of the vineyard in the open air. There were a few customers and only two tables were occupied.

We enjoyed the restaurant’s special dishes paired with a splendid-tasting wine. After dining, we played a game wherein the one who would lose was to get a finger flick on the forehead. Somehow, I lost right away. I tried to use my charm on him and asked him to play the game again only to lose the second time around. Sighing, I unconsciously pouted in front of him which sent him laughing at my reaction.

“Okay fine!” I gave up as I cleared my forehead by holding my hair up. “Don’t flick so hard, okay?” I reminded as I closed my eyes, anticipating the flick.

“Are you sure?” He asked, it was obvious that he was enjoying this. “We can just choose another punishment.”

“No. Let’s get on with the finger flick, I play fair and square.”

“Okay, then…” He trailed off as he marked his target by pressing my forehead. “Okay, here it goes.”

I braced myself as I waited, even closed my eyes. Five seconds but none came. Wondering, I opened my eyes and found him staring at me. The corners of his lips turned upward and it appeared like he had been doing it the whole time.

“What are you doing?” I asked. “Why aren’t you flicking my forehead?”

“Okay, okay I’ll do it.” He replied as he stretched his arms sideways, and tilted his head as if he was warming up.

I chuckled at his antics until he readied his fingers, and even blew on them. He looked pretty serious now, so I shut my eyes closed once more.

“Come closer baby.” He told me and I did. “A little more.”

I frowned but obeyed.

“Okay, just a little bit more…” He instructed. “Closer Baby.”

“Baek!” I whined once more as my eyes flew open, only to cut my thoughts when his lips closed the space between mine.

I just had to blink my eyes, probably twice, before he leaned away. I looked at him in shock. The way I did not expect that.

“Sorry, I prefer that. Instead.” He reasoned out. “And you looked way too cute so…”

Without warning, I flicked his forehead with my finger which startled him. His eyes grew wide at me before placing a hand on the spot I hit.

“You. Bad. Woman.” He said, exaggerating his angry reaction.

When I sensed that he was going to let me pay for what I did, I stood and left my chair.

“Don’t you think you’re being unfair? I kissed you when I could’ve hit you but you...” He glared at me unbelievably. “You flicked my forehead and I did not even lose the game.” He tilted his head down and acted like his blood pressure went up.

I immediately laughed at how animated he looked. However, my happiness was cut short when I saw him leave his spot to get to me. I ran towards the vacant space on the right until I reached the edge. I stood leaning on the railings since I’d got nowhere to go now.

I turned around to face him, determined to ask for forgiveness only to be startled when he was already next to me. His hands landed on my waist, holding me steady. He gave the curve of my sides a slight squeeze before he started to tickle me. I made a little jump, trying to avoid his hands as I burst out laughing again.

“Baek.” I struggled to call his name. “Stop. Please. Baby Stop. No. Baek, I’m sorry.” I begged in between my unstoppable giggles. “I’m sorry. Wait. Wait.” I went on as he refused to grant my plea. “Baekhyun. Baby…Baby. Baek.” I made an effort to hold his face and kiss his cheek, then his mouth. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry.”

I kissed his lips repeatedly until he lost his focus and finally stopped with the tickles. He let out a smirk, shaking his head sideways, probably realizing how I was able to easily convince him. Taking off his hands off me, he placed them on the rails behind me.

“You only call me baby whenever you did something wrong, don’t you?” He told me with a cocky smile.

“No.” I disagreed, fixing my hair by tucking the loose strands behind my ears. “That’s not true.”

I hugged him, my hands loosely wrapped over his shoulders to make him forget about the thought.

“Does it hurt?” I asked, referring to his forehead.

I lifted a hand and caressed the reddening skin.

“Yes.” He nodded. “I’m heartbroken.” His lips puckered like a child's.

“Please, you’re so dramatic Baek,” I told him as I pinched his pouted mouth.

He said something but it turned out inaudible as I continued to hold his mouth. Smiling like an idiot, I very much enjoyed this. Well, not until he was able to successfully shake my hand off and bit my fingers.

“Ow!” I exclaimed at the slight pain his teeth caused. “You. Bad. Baby.”

It was his time to burst out laughing.

༺ ༻
 

We went for a drive to the city, passing by the vast greeneries on either side. The Tuscan Cypress were lined so beautifully alongside the road and the skies were the perfect azure. When we reached the town center, we visited some famous sites. Once we were done, we went to a flower shop where Baekhyun asked me to pick the flowers I wanted. Leaving with a bouquet of bright sunflowers, we took a short walk along the river near the famous bridge.

It was already sunset which turned everything golden orange around us. The water reflected the prettiest colors and I couldn’t help but take in the majestic view. Baekhyun lifted me so I could sit on the concrete railings marking the outlines of the river while he stood in front of me, my legs opening a bit to make room for him.

One thing that made this perfect was the fact that I was sharing every moment with him. My appreciation for these places had doubled simply because he was next to me. Tearing my attention from my favorite color that was the sunset, I turned to my favorite person in the world. My husband.

His eyes were on the sky, probably thinking how great the view was just like I did moments ago. I waited for a couple of seconds before he noticed me staring.

“This reminds me of something.” He said.

I went on gazing at him, waiting for his next words.

“Our first sunset at the old hiking place.”

“Oh,” I muttered.

Acknowledging the warm and fuzzy feeling inside me as he brought the memory back, I suddenly felt emotional. The need to hug him resurfaced and I was too weak to resist it. I spread my arms, obviously asking for a hug from him. He complied with a soft smile and the next second, we were in each other’s arms. I leaned my head on top of his as we both admired the perfect Italian sunset once more.

“Look how far we’ve come, Baby.” His tone was soft and filled with affection.

My mouth formed a subtle downward curve, feeling my eyes became misty. It was a relief though that he couldn’t see me now.

“I want to spend all my sunsets with you,” I told him.

I felt and heard him smile as he tightened his arms around me.

“Always, Baby.”
 

༺ ༻

FRANCE

Of course, Paris, the most romantic place in the world, was on our list.
We spent about a day exploring the city but the highlight was having the cutest picnic lunch at a park where the view of the renowned Eiffel tower was seen. With a blanket spread on the grass, we shared a meaningful time.

We ate the food we bought from several stores lining up on 19th street. I bought a book with me and tried my hardest to concentrate on the written words since I could feel him staring at me most of the time. He was laying down, his head on my lap. I tried to catch him staring but he made sure that every time I look at him, his eyes were closed. However, there was a lingering smile on his face which was to be blamed for the butterflies in my stomach.

“Stop reading this.” He snatched the book from my hand and threw it behind him.

“Baekhyun.” I laughed at what he just did.

“Why don’t you read me instead?” He said casually before crossing his arms over his chest.

“What? That’s ridiculous.” I looked at him unbelievably but gave in to his antics. “Okay,” I muttered staring back at him, suppressing a smile. “Hmmm. Easy.”

He raised his eyebrows, throwing a challenging look.

“You love me,” I told him, making sure to sound confident. “And you wanna kiss me? So bad.”

His eyes formed into crescents.

“Wow, such a skilled mind reader.” He commented, his smile growing wide. “I’m impressed!”

“Well thank you, monsieur,” I replied doing a curtsy using my hands which earned another laugh from him.

“Now, if you don’t mind mademoiselle, let me kiss you like I had been meaning to.”

With an upward curve taking over my lips, I leaned closer to him. Dipping for the kiss, he held my face with his both hands as our lips shared a short but sweet kiss. Later on, he urged me to lie down next to him, his arm serving as my pillow. I turned to face him, laying on my side as I put an arm over his chest. Closing my eyes, I snuggled against him, basking in the glorious Paris ambiance.

“Now that you’re my wife, I swear you’re becoming exactly like me little by little.” He said with an amused tone.

“That’s because I pay attention to you, a lot.” I reasoned out without opening my eyes.

I heard him let out a small laugh at my remark as he rubbed my head gently, lulling me to sleep.

*.☽.*

Saying goodbye to the city, Baekhyun and I spent more time in the French countryside. The place looked really lovely and our stay there was both magical and perfect. I remembered us driving to and going on a canoe ride at the small lake. The owner of the place we were renting told us about it and we liked the idea of going there.

The weather was perfect, sunny but there was subtle coolness in the air. I wore a white beige high waist short paired with tucked-in white crochet, sleeveless top accented with beige ed long sleeves. To finish the casual look, I wore simple white sneakers and tied my hair in a loose ponytail. Baekhyun on the other hand wore light-washed denim jeans, ripped on one knee. He also wore a plain white shirt and another white button-down long sleeves that were left ed as well.

I got so excited to see the lake that I ran through the boardwalk towards the edge as soon as we got there. My hand never let go of Baekhyun’s as I tagged him along with me. Since it was private property, we were the only ones there.

It was huge, but not that much. The water was clean and surrounded by trees on either side. Roaming my attention around, I couldn’t help but admire everything I see. It was peaceful. Serenity at its finest. I smiled, my heart and soul in complete contentment.

“Oh, it’s lovely!” I chimed as I spread my arms sideways and made a few turns like a kid.

I heard Baekhyun laugh behind me which immediately caught my attention. I turned around to stand next to him before leaning in for a hug. My arms circled over his shoulders as our eyes met. The smile he just did and the way his eyes formed into crescents came like sunshine.

“I love it here,” I told him. “It’s so pretty.”

“I do too.” He nodded as he placed his hands around my waist.

“Are you happy?” I asked, glancing at the lake behind us. “Because I am.” I turned to face him again.

He lifted a hand to tuck my hair behind my ear.

“I am happy…” He uttered, his eyes fondly staring back at me. “Whenever you’re happy.”

“Love you,” I whispered. “Like really, really love you!”

He leaned closer to give my chin a playful bite, making me giggle in the process.

“Love you too. Like really, really love you!” He said, next to my ear, copying my accent.

༺ ༻

We excitedly went to unravel the canoe tied on the post attached to the boardwalk. The small boat was pretty and was made of wood. My heart was beating fast due to the excitement. I sat in front while Baekhyun occupied the space at the back. He also presented to paddle by himself for me to concentrate and admire the view.

That, or he was just too nice to tell me that I might get us drowned.

The little rustles the water made as he paddled behind me was a lullaby to my ears. Since we brought a camera with us, I took a few shots of the breathtaking nature ahead. The trees, the water, the skies, and of course I took photos of my husband too. I also dipped my hand into the lake, my fingers brushing through the cool water.

We stopped in the middle of the lake, we laid down and snuggled just so we could fit in the boat. With his arms around me, I closed my eyes and listened to the melody offered by nature. The little sound the calm water beneath us made, the faint chirping of the birds from afar, and the gentle wind giving us company. However, nothing could compare to the sound of my husband’s heartbeat. It was the most beautiful, the most comforting.

“You’re thinking of me, aren’t you?” I heard him say in an evidently confident tone.

I let out a small laugh as I tightened my embrace around him, causing him to adjust our positions just so we wouldn’t fall off the small boat.

“Of course.” My admission came in right away as I opened my eyes and met his fond stare. “You’re all I ever think of, you know.” I trailed off as I made an effort to land my lips on his.

I felt how his lips formed into a smile in the middle of the kiss which also made me giggle automatically. He placed his free hand on my cheek, caressed my jaw with his thumb.

“In fact…” I paused to elevate my body a little bit so I could watch his whole reaction. “You live in my head rent-free.”

As expected, he chuckled as he slightly got up and ended up leaning his back on the division of the small boat before he tugged on my hand to come near.

“Why are you stealing my lines now?” He smirked handsomely. “Hmm, baby?”

However, I kinda felt uncomfortable with the tight space and he must have sensed it too.  He patted on his legs, signaling me to sit there. Without second thoughts, I sat on his lap, facing him. The moment we were face to face, his fingers naturally traveled from my hands, going up to my arms before landing on my head. His fingers played with my hair, with a soft expression on his face.

“Serves you right for stealing my heart,” I answered, unable to stop myself from smiling from the cheesiness.

His beautiful crescent-shaped eyes made an appearance as he laughed at my reply.

“Woah.” He exaggerated, looking shocked. “My wife is such a flirt and I ABSOLUTELY. HONESTLY. LOVE IT!”

I gave his side a playful pinch before he held me by the waist and made me lean closer until my arms were wrapped around his neck. I could feel him embrace me the next second. His arms wound around me, making me feel secure and at home.

"I keep winning in this life because I get to live it with you." He said, sounding affectionate and meaning every word he uttered. “God, I love you so much.” He whispered, his mouth just inches from mine. “I’m so relieved you’re my wife now.”

“Why?” I was curious.

“Because no one will be able to snatch you from me now.”

“Are you sure?” I asked, deciding to .

“Excuse me?” He asked in sarcasm.

I leaned away, giggling at his response.

“I’m kidding,” I said cupping his face with my hands a little too much until I saw him pout. “I’m yours,” I announced and gave his puckered lips a peck. “From the top of my head to the sole of my feet, I’m all yours.”

“Really? From head to toe?” He asked as soon as I freed his mouth.

That mischievous yet handsome little smirk got my attention instantly. The eyebrow raise that followed almost made me bite my lip.

“Please don’t act like you haven’t made every inch of me your territory for the last few weeks,” I told him in a matter-of-fact, tone.

Flashes of what our honeymoon trip had been flooded my mind causing the slight warming of my cheeks. I also became so aware of how his toned chest felt under my palms, the thin fabric of his white top the only thing hindering our skins from touching.

“You know, I’m right,” I added, trying to sound as casual as possible.

He continued to stare at me with a hint of playfulness evident in his eyes and the curve of his lips. His hands on my back drove all the way down to the curve of my waist.

“Yes baby, I am very well aware of that.” He finally answered as he pulled me closer again for the nth time. “Damn every part of you is very y.” He added, whispering it next to my ear before giving my earlobe a slight bite.

His said act sent shivers down my spine. However, I just had to gulp when I felt his hands traveling down to my exposed legs, giving the gentlest caress. His fingertips left that lasting feeling on parts they would have contact with.

When I tilted my body away, I subtly held my breath as I found him staring at me, his gaze was heavy. We were silent for the next seconds, my focus is torn between the look on his face and his hands giving my skin those lingering, teasing touches. The tension between us was gradually increasing and I didn’t know what else to do but bite my lower lip. I momentarily looked away, however, he retrieved my attention as soon as I did it when he, without warning, grabbed me. The next thing I knew, he was helping me bite that lower lip.

Resisting his mouth was impossible. In a millisecond, my eyes were closed. I was drowning with every move his experienced lips and tongue were doing. I gave in to all the feelings the kiss was giving me. So overwhelming, making my mind spin, disorganizing all my thoughts. All I could ever focus on was the kiss that was consuming every part of me, every part of my body. Though I was seated, I still held on to him like my balance was at risk. I wound my arms over his shoulders, around his neck, my fingers entangling with his hair.

The only time I got to take a proper breath was when he detached his lips from mine just so he could carry my weight as he intended to shift our positions over. He leaned my body back so I would end up at the bottom. The boat rocked in the process, making me cling to him tighter. My heart almost skipped a beat for a second but he didn’t seem to mind as his hands landed on either side of my neck, holding them steady. I braced myself for another mind-blowing collision of our lips which I was so certain to happen. As his face got closer, my heartbeat seemed to have turned drum-loud, I could hear it in my ears.

I was slightly panting, my lips parting a little bit, desperate for more air. But he wasn’t that considerate enough I guess. His mouth took over the gap between my lips, his tongue seeking entrance as soon as possible. Of course, and as I expected, all kinds of sensations flooded my mind as well as every inch of my body again. Our heads shifted positions again and again as we shared an incredible physical and emotional connection.

His hands went to un-tuck my top from my shorts and in a swift move, I could feel his warm skin against my own. I could feel him paying attention to my stomach, giving it slight grazes. It made me feel feverish, my head empty. 

It drove me crazy, as always.   

I forced myself not to think about the unsteady rocking of the boat every time we make even slight movements but my body was already unconsciously reacting to it. I would wrap my hands around his waist or wrinkle the fabric of his shirt on his chest by balling my hands into fists. Knowing Baekhyun, I knew that he would be able to sense it because he always paid attention to me. A lot.

Proving myself right, his pace slowed down until he stopped kissing me. His mouth was just above mine, our lips still touching due to our heavy and ragged breathing. He rested his forehead against mine as we both remained silent.

“.” He hissed in an obviously displeased tone. “I hate this rocking boat.” He added with gritted teeth.

My freshly ravaged lips formed into an upward curve, the tip of my nose touching his before I let out a small laugh. I couldn’t explain it but I found him cute whining like this. But truth be told, I hate the freaking boat too.

“.” I uttered, trying to sound serious and copying his tone.

His eyes grew wide in surprise.

“I hate this rocking boat too.” I went on trying my best to sound convincing.

All of a sudden, he burst out laughing as he shook his head sideways. I watched him while his eyes formed into beautiful crescents. I felt my lips stretching into a smile as he faced me the next second.

“I should stop cursing in front of you.” He told me. “Or else you’d be so good at it and your mom will beat me to death.”

He leaned against the boat as he extended both of his arms on either side. The right sleeve of his outer button-down fell down his arm over his slightly wrinkled white shirt, his black hair slightly damp. His chest was subtly heaving as it moved up and down.

He was catching his breath but at the same time taking mine away.

And if it wasn’t enough, he brought his right hand to his head and raked his fingers through his hair. Brushing them up, revealing his bare face. I was in awe. It was his hand on my knee that brought me back to my senses. His eyes were on mine, a fond look spread all over his face. Then he stretched an arm towards me, urging me to move closer.

I made a move toward him, as gently as I could not wanting to cause the boat to be unsteady again. Thankfully Baekhyun reached for my hand and helped me get to him with ease. I immediately wrapped my arms around his waist and rested my chin on his chest so I could face him.

“I want you so bad.”