They were locked inside the dressing room of the theatre. All ten thousand tickets to the live debut showcase had sold out immediately. Wonwoo was dressed in a casual jeans and tshirt combination. His hair had been retouched and his face glowed with the inner strength of someone who had finally learned their true value.

Sometimes we can't truly see ourselves until we look through the eyes of someone else.

Someone knocked on the door and called out "ten minutes" and Wonwoo's hands began to shake. He didn't say anything. He didn't have to. Mingyu enveloped him within his huge arms and squeezed the life out of him. Wonwoo gasped for air. "You're squishing me!" He managed to get out while Mingyu just laughed.

Their eyes met and melted into each other. Memories came crashing back into Wonwoo's mind. Sea and salt and bitter coffee. Silent drives and cold walks in the rain. Jealousy, self doubt and confusion had been replaced with security, confidence and joy. Every day with Mingyu was a joy.

Wonwoo still felt insecure sometimes but Mingyu had a way of telling him everything he needed to hear without saying a word.

Sometimes it wasn't all about words. A look, a gesture, a sandwich or a coffee. A need anticipated. A kindness shown without request or expectation of reciprocation. Actions spoke louder than words and this was never more true than today.

Mingyu took the little Hello Kitty out of his pocket and pushed her into the pocket of Wonwoo's jeans. "I don't want you to be alone out there." He said softly. He couldn't always be by Wonwoo's side. Sometimes he would have to wait in the background, watching from the shadows, ready to step in.

Wonwoo took a deep breath. This was it. His live debut. Everything was about to change but there was still one last thing to say.

"I love you Mingyu." He looked right into his eyes while he said it. This was the first time. Tears filled his vision while he waited for the response.

"I love you too Wonwoo. So much." The response was more than he could have hoped for.

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