Donghae follows behind Hyukjae.

A few people have done a double take. Their eyes would be scanning aisles. Coolers. They'd go past Hyukjae. Then immediately dart back. Stare for a moment. Pass.

Donghae isn't even noticed.

Hyukjae's usually a bit disappointed. That Donghae's covering up. But Donghae's explained: he prefers this for himself. He's had to look perfect as an idol. As an actor. For work. So this is more comfortable now. For his everyday private life.

His husband understands. Just smiles. Nods. Takes his arm. His hand. Then... wanders ahead.

It makes Donghae happy. For Hyukjae. He remembers the days of hiding. How his husband would want to dress well. Look good. For Donghae. For himself. It affected him. That silent resentment from fans. Their preference of others for Donghae.

But Hyukjae stayed hidden. Out of sight. To not cause any trouble. Not upset any fans.

Despite everything that happened... this feels good now. Hyukjae is free. More confident. Relaxed. Hyukjae still wants more for Donghae. Positive attention. Success. Praise. But he's happy with Donghae's choices.

These thoughts make Donghae sigh. He's filled with admiration. Gratitude.

His eyes haven't left Hyukjae. The other has paused. His face lights up. He points at an aisle. Beams at Donghae. Hurries towards it.

Another person glances at him passing. Donghae smiles.

Hyukjae's in dark gray shorts. A sweatshirt to match. White platform slippers. His legs... need more sun. So does his neck. Arms. It's probably his hair, though. That's what draws attention. It's still a warm blond. It is straight today. So his head looks very round. Adorable.

Donghae stops beside him. Hyukjae's viewing the cup ramens. His head's tilted back at shelves. Expression's focused. Donghae notices a few pale hairs. At the crown of his head. They're sticking up. Like antennas.

He snorts.

"What?" Hyukjae says. "We need more ramen."

"Okay."

Hyukjae narrows his eyes. "Then why'd you laugh?"

"I didn't, honeybun." Donghae moves closer. Wraps an arm around his waist.

"I heard you -- don't rub your mask on me! I hate it!"

Donghae pecks his cheek through it anyway. Chuckles. At the face Hyukjae makes. His husband slips away. Goes back to the ramen. Donghae brings his attention to them. Only to blink. In surprise.

"Hyukkie, you're not thinking of getting those, are you?"

"I am."

"But babe, I won't be able to eat them..."

Hyukjae smiles a bit mischievously. "Hae, what if we do a spicy ramen challenge?"

"What the hell for?"

"For fun, Donghae. And it's going to be delicious!"

"That'll kill me."

"No, it won't."

"That will kill you!"

Donghae tries to grab one. Out of Hyukjae's hands. But Hyukjae huffs. Drops it into their cart.

"It will not!"

Donghae blinks down it. Then at the four others Hyukjae drops too. They're all black. Red. With flames all over the packaging.

"Honeybun," Donghae says. "You can't do this."

"I can. I'll prove it to you."

"I'm not joinin