Verona, 16th century

 

 

The ball was the last thing Chanyeol wanted to waste his time on that night. None of those people came close to being interesting enough for him, a boy of poetry and moonlit rides. If he were honest, that's exactly what he dreamed of while standing in the ballroom with fermented grape juice in his hands, which his cousin had offered him earlier and Chanyeol couldn't say no to.

He didn't find the taste bad, though. The sweetness of the fruit was a bit unusual compared to the familiar sour taste of red fruits he was used to. But he believed that experiencing something new was something he was an expert at.

The dance hall was filled with people in formal attire, wearing masks representing their respective Houses. Chanyeol wore a dark green mask representing the Capuleto House. All the other boys wore different colors, making him the only one there in that particular shade. Masks of the same color meant they belonged to the same House, something Chanyeol would never understand, as he was the sole heir of the Capuletos.

While observing the ballroom, he felt a bit lonely. It was his obligation to find a good match tonight. His mother had instructed him to dance with as many girls as possible at the ball, but Chanyeol wasn't sure if that was what he wanted for himself. In fact, he was certain that if he ever met his wife, he would recognize her instantly. He believed that his heart would respond to his beloved's at the moment their eyes met across the room. That's what he hoped would happen tonight.

People were twirling around the ballroom as if the night would never end. There was joy and carefreeness in the air, quite different from what he felt inside. He wished he could escape to the garden until everyone forgot about his presence there, but that would be impossible. Being the birthday celebrant meant being available to the guests at all times. And these guests were composed of people he had never even heard of. Perhaps that's why he felt so lonely.

"Young Capuleto, if you'll allow me."

Chanyeol was startled by a strange voice so close to him. Behind the mask, he could see that the man who caught his attention was a noble from another House, wearing a salmon-colored mask. Chanyeol made a formal bow to the man, who appeared to be much older than him.

"Well, young man. I've come to offer you congratulations on your sixteenth birthday. I believe we can speak man to man now, correct?" the man chuckled, behaving somewhat childishly.

The young man had no idea what to reply, other than joining in his laughter. He was nervous about the conversation, as he wasn't an expert in the art of rhetoric. Grown men were seen as great deliverers of prepared and convincing speeches. They were meant to close deals with few words. However, young Capuleto had only learned about that in books, never in real life. Reality was completely different.

"Sir, are you enjoying the party?" he asked, more to entertain the gentleman than to satisfy his own curiosity.

"Indeed, my young man. The Capuleto House has always been abundant and wealthy. The finest parties in all of Verona, and the best sales in the northern seafaring trade. I feel that you will have quite the responsibility now, my fine lad. And surely you're considering acquiring a good young lady to marry..."

Chanyeol felt his throat go dry. It was clear that the purpose of the party was to increase the Capuleto lineage. His parents had made that quite clear to him. But the thought that others were also thinking about it made the young man's stomach churn. It was bad enough to have the pressure from his family on his shoulders, but from people in the city, it was dreadful. The young man felt somewhat uncomfortable about it.

"You know, my lad... I didn't see you dancing with my lovely Lydia. She's right over there, among her other companions. I understand that it can be intimidating for a young man like you to court such a beautiful young lady..."

Chanyeol followed his gaze, looking at Miss Lydia. It wasn't difficult to spot her in the sea of people, as her mask was truly extravagant. There were huge salmon-colored feather plumes resembling a headdress, along with some shiny stones cascading over the forehead of the mask, which was also adorned with gold details. It was a very beautiful mask, but more suitable for Carnival than a ball.

"Of course, sir... I-if you'll excuse me, I must check on the wine," Chanyeol said, making a quick bow to leave without further questioning.

"Hey, young man! Wait, we still have a lot to talk about!"

The Capuleto didn't respond. He simply took wide strides towards the end of the corridor, walking away from all those people. It was his birthday, so he thought he should do what made him happy on that special day. And certainly, he wouldn't find happiness by courting girls he had never spoken to before.

Chanyeol let out a relieved sigh, making his way to the slightly more secluded balcony on the left wing, away from the main hall. He could still hear the noise of music and conversation, but there, he felt more protected. If only there was a way to camouflage himself among those people, maybe he could enjoy the party better without feeling like a constant target for marriages.

He placed both hands on the balcony railing, gazing out at the starry night. The stars shone like a gentle promise of hope, that there was still a better place in the world for hopeful hearts. Even though his greatest dream was to be free from his noble role and rid himself of the burden of being the last heir of the Capuleto lineage, Chanyeol still thought about his family.

The truth was that his heart longed for a suitor, like any other young person his age. But it felt wrong that it didn't beat faster when he held the hands of a beautiful lady, that he didn't feel his body freeze with nervousness when a girl smiled at him, or that his hands didn't sweat when exchanging glances with any maiden across the hall. The butterflies that haunted his stomach, Chanyeol had never felt them with anyone.

He felt melancholic. He wanted to escape into the forest and hide from the inevitable, from the night he didn't want to live. He wished the moon would help him, just as it did with all the lovers in the world who declared their poetry to it. He wished that for just one night, he could feel like himself: a sixteen-year-old boy about to chase his dreams.

Lost in his thoughts, he heard hurried footsteps approaching. Chanyeol turned, coming face to face with a short boy wearing a rather peculiar mask. It appeared to be a woman's mask, and it was white. Chanyeol had no idea which House he belonged to.

"Sorry, sir. I-I was... Uhm..." he trailed off, appearing nervous.

Chanyeol didn't know how to respond, as he had no idea who he was. He had never seen a mask like that in his life before.

"Are you lost?" was the first thing that came out of his lips.

The boy stood still.

It was only when he removed the mask that the young Capuleto could see who he was. Suddenly, Chanyeol also felt something he couldn't explain. He had no idea what or why he was feeling as if his heart was about to burst. In reflex, he took off his own mask, needing the other person to see him as well. Both locked eyes as if it were the first and last time simultaneously. Time seemed to contort, and the young man's eyes, wide open, were incredulous as they locked gazes without wavering.

He couldn't say what he was feeling. He didn't know why this person seemed so important, and most of all, he didn't know why he couldn't remember his name.

"Do I... know you?" the young man asked, his voice husky.

Chanyeol wanted to say yes, but he himself no longer knew. Because he was certain that if he did know him, he would know exactly who he was. He would know why his skin tingled just by looking at his face. He would know why it felt like he was on the edge of Death while still breathing Life.

"No. I don't believe so," Capuleto replied, averting his gaze from all that intensity.

But his answer was not enough to make the young man retreat. On the contrary, he approached him, standing by his side as they both gazed at the stars outside.

"You're a Capuleto, aren't you? The birthday boy..."

His voice was familiar, somewhat comforting to hear. This time, Chanyeol looked at him, observing him closely. He had long, blond hair, and his lips seemed ready to declare lost promises. He possessed the soul of a hero. He was handsome and melancholic in appearance. His eyes held the most secret, impenetrable, and forbidden mysteries. He was someone Chanyeol would like to get to know.

"Yes, it's me," Capuleto replied.

The young man smiled, bowing to him.

"At your service," he said before straightening up and facing him. "I apologize, my dear. I failed to have the decency to grace you with a beautiful gift."

Capuleto felt the skin on his cheeks warm. He spoke with such grace in his smile that the young man's heart faltered just listening to his words.

"There's no need to worry about that. It's enough for me that you're here, enjoying the party."

"Perhaps I wouldn't say that if I knew who I am."

"And why not?"

The young man smiled broadly.

"From what I know, we are soul enemies. You should run away from me, young Capuleto."

Realization dawned on the young man. If they were enemies, it meant only one thing.

"You..." he didn't need to finish his thought for him to agree with a nod.

"Yes, I am Kyungsoo Montecchio. At your service," Kyungsoo bowed again, a smile dancing in his gaze. "You've caught me like a rat in a trap, Capuleto. I understand if you don't want me here, and I will respect that if it's your wish for me to leave."

That was the last thing Chanyeol wanted at that moment, but he didn't say it out loud. He should play the role of the responsible young man, the one his father would be proud to hear about. But when he laid his eyes on the young man, he was stunned. His beauty still haunted him, and there was something about him that made his heart ache.

"I won't reproach you for that. I presume everyone has the right to enjoy a party. Don't you think so?"

Kyungsoo looked at him, smiling softly to the side.

"I presume so, my dear. Especially on such a formidable night."

Chanyeol agreed, once again gazing at the starry night outside. The weather was perfect for a moonlit stroll, but he couldn't leave without anyone noticing his absence. It would be imprudent, and he would be stained by the noble society. His family's reputation could even be ruined.

"You seem sad, Capuleto. Why did you retreat from your own party? Isn't there enough drink for you?" the voice was playful but curious.

Capuleto smiled slightly as he crossed his arms, putting the white feathered mask back in place.

"It wasn't the birthday I had dreamed of. Nor do I feel content in the midst of so many strangers."

"However, you feel at ease in the presence of an enemy. What an outrage..."

Chanyeol laughed at his words.

"I wasn't aware of your reputation when I chose to respond to your words, Montecchio."

Kyungsoo chuckled softly, locking his gaze with Chanyeol's behind the white mask.

"In that case, my young friend, you should inquire about the company you keep. There are many wolves lurking among the sheep."

Chanyeol was surprised, dumbfounded by what he had just been told. Wolves lurking among the sheep... was he referring to himself? Surely not.

"Who are you referring to?" he asked, genuinely curious.

Montecchio smiled like the very Wolf he had spoken of.

"To the noble hearts burning with passion." Kyungsoo extended his hand, covered in a white velvet glove, in a clear invitation. "If you have the courage, Capuleto, do you think you can keep up with me? I was on my way out when you caught me here. I can make this night full of memories for you if you want to celebrate with vigor."

Chanyeol held his breath. He simply knew in his heart that this was what he had been waiting for, what he seemed to have been waiting for his whole life. Every particle of his being, at that moment, seemed to connect with the young man right in front of him. He understood that the trust he had in him was inexplicable, but he also knew that if he didn't accept his proposal, he would spend the rest of his birthday night unhappy and excluded from his own party.

Therefore, even before he could respond, he simply nodded and placed his hand in Kyungsoo's. Kyungsoo smiled widely, setting aside the mask as he climbed onto the balcony railing. His eyes never leaving Chanyeol's, who, even though he fully trusted the young man, still had hesitation clouding his thoughts.

"Do not fear, Chanyeol Capuleto," he said, pulling him up and standing right beside him.

Chanyeol struggled to steady himself on the balcony, looking down with slight dizziness as he realized the place was higher than he remembered. Kyungsoo didn't seem concerned at all about it, for when he returned his gaze to Chanyeol's, there was cunning shining in his eyes.

"Life, my dear, is like the breath of a flute. Sweet but all too brief. Only fools are brave enough to live it to the fullest."

Live life to the fullest... exactly the words Chanyeol wanted to hear. He was tired of being someone he wasn't, tired of entertaining people he didn't know. Everything surrounding his life didn't belong to him or was built on expectations. Deep down, that wasn't what the young Capuleto wanted. Deep down, he knew that Kyungsoo...

"In that case, I must be the biggest fool of all fools," he said, before taking the first step out of there with his greatest enemy.

 

 

When they were already far away from the Capuleto mansion, Chanyeol felt his stomach churning. It was evident that he had never done anything outside the rules, but with Montecchio by his side, he felt that none of his actions were wrong quite the opposite. He felt that they were all incredibly natural.

Minutes ago, as they fled from his own birthday party through the main balcony of the mansion, they had to run through extensive stretches of land until they managed to go unnoticed by the people in the hall. Capuleto didn't hesitate to leave all that behind. Because, as Kyungsoo himself had told him, it was an act of bravery. A foolish act as well, but one done by the desires of his heart.

And to Chanyeol, that was the only thing that mattered.

The Montecchio boy seemed to know exactly where to lead him. Whether it was because he had taken that path before or because he was an expert in the art of trickery. Certainly, Chanyeol knew he could rely on him to not get lost in the city, as he was not accustomed to walking alone in Verona.

Chanyeol felt the stifling night air making it difficult to breathe, but still, he didn't regret what he had done. It was of utmost importance that in that moment of his life, he took the reins. He was tired of acting and being treated like a child. He was no longer the person who kept his head down; he wanted to be completely free.

"Capuleto," the boy called his attention. "I think we are already far enough. Don't hurry anymore. We can just walk, for now."

Chanyeol agreed, stopping at once. He was tired. The run had taken all the air from his lungs, and keeping up with an expert in escapes was extremely exhausting. As if realizing that, the Montecchio boy approached him, gently holding him by the lapel of his coat.

"Are you okay? Do you need anything?" Kyungsoo chuckled softly. "My dear, don't tell me this is your first escape?"

The young man became intimidated. It was indeed his first escape. Moreover, an escape with a complete stranger. It was certain that his theories about the boy's reputation had been confirmed.

"By the looks of it, you really are an expert in the art of trickery," he said, accusingly.

However, that only made Kyungsoo laugh at himself. The carefree smile shone in the starry night, and his eyes suddenly seemed much kinder. Chanyeol knew him from somewhere. He didn't know from where, maybe from the city, but he knew exactly that he had seen him before. Chanyeol even wondered if his mind wasn't playing tricks on him again, but the feeling he had in his heart every time he looked at him was impossible to falsify.

"I didn't bring you along for idling, Capuleto. It's quite the opposite. I tried to escape from your party without getting caught, but you were precisely the person who appeared before me. Call it whatever you want, but I assure you it was nothing but Destiny that brought us together."

"Or the misfortune of our unhappy lives."

Kyungsoo smiled broadly.

"Anywhere you want," he replied.

Chanyeol took a breath, diverting his gaze from Montecchio's intensity. The twists of events had made his head spin out of sync. It was certainly unusual for something like that to happen, but life was full of surprises. He had learned that from books, and apparently, life imitated the most beautiful of arts as well.

"Capuleto... I must warn you immediately: it would not be prudent for us to wander around without our Masks. You should keep yours to conceal your identity, so it would be wise not to remove it."

Chanyeol became confused.

"But they will recognize who we are based on our House colors," he pointed to his own face, where he knew the bright dark green could be seen in contrast to the white mask.

Kyungsoo agreed.

"To you... perhaps. But to me, it will be impossible. I am not wearing the color of my House."

The surprise that crossed Capuleto's face seemed to amuse Montecchio.

"Well, sir, do you think I would be foolish enough to enter a Capuleto's house without precautions?" He smiled. "I prepared myself to attend your party."

"And w-why did you do that?"

Chanyeol couldn't help but stammer. He didn't know him, and he never thought that a Montecchio would have an interest in attending one of his parties. They were mortal enemies, after all. There was no reason for that to happen.

"Just... felt it was right for me to do so," Kyungsoo observed him. "I can't explain it. I heard about the party through the town's buzz, and I thought it would be a night of entertainment. I was just... guided to the party beyond my own consciousness. When I arrived there, I finally knew."

"What?" 

Kyungsoo smiled.

"That there was a prince waiting for me."

Chanyeol looked at him deeply. Kyungsoo seemed sincere in his words, much more than the young man expected. He didn't know him well enough to judge, but he wanted to believe that Kyungsoo was a young man who valued honesty and honor above all else. A man of his word, as his old father would say, was a true man.

"I thank you," Chanyeol replied. "If it weren't for you, I might have spent the whole night sighing in sadness."

"Perhaps you should thank the guard who intervened for me," Montecchio smiled at himself. "If it weren't for him, I wouldn't have had to escape through the balcony."

Chanyeol chuckled softly. So that's why he had appeared like a ghost? It explained many things.

"I feel like the situation had to get complicated. But look on the bright side..."

Kyungsoo waited for him to continue, but the young man fell silent. It was true that there might not be any good side other than the fact that Chanyeol had been freed from the burden of dancing with so many girls in one night. The truth was that now, both of them were lost in the night.

"The good side, my dear," Kyungsoo said, taking his hand as if granted permission. "Is that now you can do whatever you please. You complained to me about your sorrows, but now I turn to you for the ultimate inquiry..." He paused, sinking into himself through his gaze, filled with intensity and questioning. "Where do you want to go?" he finally asked.

Where? Chanyeol didn't know. He didn't know the night in Verona, and he certainly didn't know the person he was entrusting with his deepest desires. He simply wanted a light to guide his way, as he had walked into the unknown many times before, with no star to guide him. But in that very moment, he knew that only one phrase could be spoken with truth:

"I don't know," he said, looking firmly at himself. "I just ask that you guide me."

The young man smiled, as if those were the exact words he wanted to hear.

"Then please allow me to be worthy of your trust," he said, before taking his hand and leading him into the mysterious night.

 

 

They wandered among all the bodegas, taverns, and inns of Verona. Many of them were still closed. Kyungsoo stole food without anyone even noticing, which could have caused guilt in Chanyeol if he had even an ounce of reason left in him. But he couldn't find it anywhere after the three glasses of bubbling beer had gone down his throat.

Montecchio knew all about the libertine life. He flirted with girls and boys, turning his night into the greatest adventure he had ever lived. He felt as if all the stars in the sky were floating in his stomach, and as if everything was within reach of his fingertips. If he had to summarize the feeling, Chanyeol would say that he had never felt so alive in his entire existence.

When they stopped near the Adige River, the sun was almost setting. Amazingly, the young man felt no remorse for the things they had done. If he were to suffer the consequences of his recklessness, he would face them with his head held high. For the first time, they would be worth it.

"Capuleto," Kyungsoo interjected, holding him by the shoulders like a child. "We should rest for a moment before continuing. I believe it's best for your condition."

Chanyeol couldn't help but smile.

"Sir, fear not. I am in perfect possession of my faculties."

Montecchio snorted.

"That's a big lie."

Both of them walked to the riverbank. They sat on the ground, not caring about the state of their party clothes. Neither of the young men wore their masks anymore, and all that was left of Montecchio was his white linen shirt and lilac-adorned trousers. Chanyeol furrowed his brow in confusion, looking at him sitting beside him.

"Your color..." he pointed at the trousers, puzzled. "It's lilac."

Kyungsoo smiled, gazing into the eyes of the young man beside him. His blonde hair was damp with sweat, and his smile was illuminated by the first rays of morning sun. Chanyeol had never seen such a beautiful hero before. Full lips, thick eyebrows, and an intense gaze were the most striking features of his profile. He was beautiful like sunlight and as impetuous as the ocean waves. Chanyeol felt drawn to him. More than that, he felt hypnotized.

"The House of Montecchio chose lilac as the color that represents us because it is the color of wind lilies," Kyungsoo paused, looking at him seriously. "You see, the lily is one of the oldest flowers in the world. Lilac ones represent marriage, motherhood, but also innocence."

That made the Capuleto laugh.

"Innocence?" he questioned. "That doesn't seem to be within your knowledge."

Kyungsoo smiled, getting closer.

"Perhaps you don't see in me the capacity for purity, Capuleto. But I assure you that I am sincere in my heart."

"Sincere, perhaps. But innocence requires an inability to do wrong."

"Do you think I am a man of immorality?" Montecchio smiled.

"Stealing is not the right thing to do."

"I'm sorry you think that way," he continued. "Because I believe that if I hadn't stolen from you today, we wouldn't have turned your special night into the most magnificent in history."

In that, he was right, much as Chanyeol hated to admit it. There was no way to enjoy life without a few acts of rebellion. Capuleto had learned that on that night.

"Oh, my dear Montecchio, you've caught me like a rat in a trap."

Kyungsoo laughed softly, standing up from the ground as he reached out his hands to Chanyeol. For the second time that night, Chanyeol accepted them. As they stood up, they ended up being so close that the Capuleto boy startled, jumping in place. Montecchio found it amusing but only smiled to the side. However, his eyes searched Capuleto's as if he were an inspector. He didn't know why that intensity made Chanyeol's body feel electric. He felt tingling sensations all over, and at that exact moment, his hands were sweating profusely. But Montecchio didn't seem to mind; on the contrary, he seemed extremely fixated on looking at Chanyeol's face with admiration.

"Chanyeol Capuleto," he murmured softly. "Would you do me the honor of dancing with me now?

Chanyeol straightened himself up. He was nervous but managed to take a step towards him without stumbling. Kyungsoo still had his eyes focused on his as if the rest of the world swirling around them no longer mattered. The young man felt the heat kissing his cheeks, and waves of nervousness revolting in his stomach. It was the first time he felt this way when about to dance with someone else.

Kyungsoo pulled his hand, placing it on his shoulder, while his right hand met Chanyeol's waist. They pressed their bodies as close as possible, and Kyungsoo smiled when he noticed that the young man in his arms was blushing for him.

"Capuleto... I didn't mean to embarrass you. My intention was merely to give you your dance, even though your birthday night has already passed."

Chanyeol averted his gaze shyly. How could he respond to his charms? He was much more experienced than him. He really wanted to experience what Kyungsoo was capable of, but he was afraid of the risks it might result in.

He couldn't help but stare at the other man's lips as they danced to no music on the bank of the Adige River. They only had the wind as their companion and the luck of having each other while no one else had woken up yet. It was cold, but no external temperature could affect what Chanyeol felt in his heart. It felt like he had spent so much time searching for him, and there he was. He didn't know how he had arrived or why, but he knew that the man in front of him was the only one who could make him feel like all the romances he had read before. It was natural, and above all, real.

Montecchio must have been reading all his thoughts because his gaze conveyed exactly those things. There was a small smile dancing on his lips, which soon turned into a silent request that the young man couldn't understand.

"I must say, I haven't yet offered my congratulations on your sixteenth year of life, Capuleto," he whispered.

Chanyeol swallowed hard.

"No, you haven't."

Kyungsoo fell silent for a few seconds while still swaying the young man in his arms. The difference in height was of no importance at that moment. In fact, Chanyeol hadn't even noticed it the entire time he had been by his side. The man seemed so interesting to look at that he couldn't help but focus on his striking personality. But now, as he looked at him, Chanyeol could see everything more clearly.

Kyungsoo smiled and pulled him closer to whisper in his ear, "Tell me what you want to receive from me, and I will give it to you."

Capuleto wanted to speak out loud. He wanted to shout what no one around them could hear. He wanted to go to the moon and plead for mercy because he was about to commit the gravest of sins.

"There's only one thing I desire, Montecchio," he said, insecure.

The blonde locked his gaze on him, not letting it escape.

"In that case, you can tell me."

"You," he replied, squeezing his long fingers on his shoulder. "I want you."

Those simple words were enough to make Montecchio draw closer. He sought Capuleto's lips with his own, leaving a delicate kiss there. He did it two or three more times, holding a smile as he leaned to reach him. Capuleto couldn't describe what he was feeling inside when those full lips his own like a forbidden fruit. He realized the entire night had been based on acts of courage.

Kissing him in such an exposed place was the most unfortunate of the acts he had ever committed.

"Happy birthday, Chanyeol," he murmured against his lips as if they had been lovers for many years.

Strangely, Chanyeol felt the same way. As if he had known him for ages and this was just another first time in their stories. However, Capuleto couldn't be satisfied with just small kisses. He wanted more. He wanted to merge with the man, touch him as deeply as he had been touched.

He didn't realize when he pulled him closer, bringing their hungry lips to attack each other. The struggle began immediately, and fire gave way to unbridled passion. Chanyeol felt as if he could die in Kyungsoo Montecchio's lips. Every exchange of tenderness and every exchange of love made the young man's heart race and the air escape his lungs. At any moment, he could disintegrate. He felt it at the core of his being. It was a completely new sensation, yet at the same time, familiar.

When Montecchio broke the embrace, he looked deep into Chanyeol's eyes with an open question in his gaze. Who are you? Where do you come from? Those were the questions swirling in Chanyeol's mind as well.

"Chan..." he whispered, looking at him as if their souls were the same. "Why do I feel like I'm drowning in your lips?"

Chanyeol sighed, feeling as if a thousand years had passed in the second they broke the contact. He could have told him everything right then and there. He could have rambled about how all of this was so new to him and that perhaps all that passion was just a fleeting flame.

But that wasn't what he felt.

So, with the courage he didn't know where he had gathered it from, he sighed before looking into his eyes and saying, "I have no idea," gently touching his face. "But I beg you, don't stop."
 

 

 

When they returned home that night, Chanyeol couldn't stop thinking about anything other than Kyungsoo Montecchio's lips pressed against his own. Standing at the gates of the Capuleto mansion, Chanyeol bid him farewell with a kiss and a promise. "I will see you again," he said, no matter what happens. It was what Capuleto was eagerly waiting for if only he weren't so unfortunate.

Certainly, Chanyeol wouldn't escape the shallow explanations he gave to his parents about his sudden disappearance the night before. The Capuletos were scandalized by the young man's behavior, and Chanyeol had been condemned to act properly until he regained their trust. He was a grown man, but he was unable to make his own decisions. If he had to explain that his heart didn't follow the conventional norms of men, he might very well be condemned to death. However, Chanyeol thought that living a lie was a kind of death as well.

He sighed with sadness in his own room, amidst the books he loved so much. All those stories told of the lives of brave and fearsome heroes, whom Capuleto envied greatly. But none of those heroes could give him the answer he sought most within himself: how could he be happy?

He felt that this question was greater than his passion for Kyungsoo Montecchio. In reality, the young man had only brought him the most unfortunate realization: that he was a free man, but his freedom came at a price. A price that Chanyeol never thought he would have to pay.

But at that moment, he was paying with all his coins.

Chanyeol had been forbidden from leaving the house without company. He was prohibited from throwing parties, visiting friends, and even attending Sunday gatherings at the Lord's house. Until his father gave him the final word, the young man had to vigorously obey the imposed orders. All of this weighed heavily on his dreamy heart because he knew that his distance from noble society would cost him what Capuleto desired most in the world: Kyungsoo's company.

Days passed like grains of sand descending through the hourglass, while he felt more and more lonely. He had given up on any mercy that Fate could grant him, and had also let go of the hope of ever being reunited with his beloved. The whispered promises they had made were in vain, as Chanyeol no longer had the ability to seek solace in his embrace whenever he wished. It was cruel that once again he felt as if the best part of himself was missing from his heart.

On a moonlit night, Chanyeol decided to contemplate the starry sky painted with shimmering lights from the balcony of his room. In the past, he used to do this until he fell asleep. But at that moment, he only wished for someone out there to hear the yearnings of his broken heart. He made himself wait on the balcony as if time itself had stopped in that instant. It was just Chanyeol and the deep darkness of the night conversing at that height:

"Only the distant Moon must understand how a heart in despair suffers in agony when separated from the one to whom it belongs, when it torments itself over the impossibility of its deepest ambitions," he said, feeling his heart finally release the anguish it held. "Only such a distant celestial body can share in my suffering and the position in which I find myself. If by the judgment of men I commit a crime in daring to love, then I believe there is nothing left for me on this Earth. It would be my delight if one day his star would shine again in my sky, but our paths seem destined for ruin. I beseech you, you shimmering star for foolish lovers, have mercy on my heart. For I know well that without him, I am left with nothing but eternal bitterness."

Capuleto awaited the response that only Time could give him.

And it never came.

The young man waited for minutes and hours on end, but to no avail. He wasn't exactly sure what or whom he was waiting for, but he knew that it was the only thing he could do in that erse moment of his life. It must have been the dead of night when he decided to lie down and forget once and for all everything that tormented him.

Just as he was about to cover himself with the thin sheet, he heard someone shouting his name from below his balcony. Capuleto immediately straightened up, for he recognized that voice anywhere. He rushed to the stone barrier and saw that he was absolutely right. It was him, there. His Kyungsoo had returned to find him.

Montecchio was beneath his balcony, wearing the same white linen outfit, his blond hair flowing over his shoulders like an unshakeable hero. He had a confident smile on his lips, as if he knew he had caused quite a stir. He began climbing the tree near Capuleto's balcony and exerted himself to make the dangerous leap. If he weren't so accustomed to such tricks, he likely would have failed. But Chanyeol suspected that this wasn't the first time the gentleman had done something like that.

When he set foot in his room, Capuleto smiled. He went straight into his arms at the same moment the young man did, their souls meeting on the same path.

"Chanyeol," he spoke first. "I thought I would never be able to see you again."

Capuleto felt his heart race within his chest, ignite, and leap out through his lips. All despair had turned into anticipation, and now he only wished for Kyungsoo never to leave him. He didn't want to live without the one who had shown him how much better his world could be if they stayed together. He didn't want to live in the anguish of a marriage that didn't align with his desires.

Chanyeol wanted to live and thirst for adventures.

"Oh, dear Kyungsoo. Do you also have pity for my misery?" the young man said, devastated by sorrow. "I cannot live a life like mine, full of falsehoods and pretenses that I refuse to portray."

"What are you talking about, my love? Tell me, and I will take care of your bitterness."

Capuleto sighed in his arms. Being there felt like embracing a new home. Strangely familiar, filled with untold stories and whispers of promises yet to come. Kyungsoo possessed a peace that Chanyeol had never been able to feel with anyone else. He had the power to provide the only comfort he truly needed.

"I must tell you that Fate has come to divide us, my dear. As Capuleto, I cannot make you, a Montecchio, my husband. And as a man, I have little say in the matter. It haunts me that the future does not seem prosperous for either of us. Today, I acquiesce to your farewell, which I promise to carry in my memories until the end of my journey on this Earth."

"Chanyeol... my sweet and young Chanyeol," he said, gently holding his face between his fingers. "Do not let the world corrupt your faith in us. Believe what I tell you: I will make you the happiest of men. A promised Destiny cannot be torn apart, Chanyeol. You are mine, and I am yours. And it will be so until Life reunites us once again. For not even Death would be able to separate me from you."

"Is this what you believe?" Chanyeol asked, gazing into his eyes.

"With all of my being," Kyungsoo replied.

It took just an instant for young Capuleto's heart to fill with tenderness. And it took only seconds for Montecchio to pull him close and claim his lips in a sudden breath. Chanyeol gasped in surprise as he felt his body tingle with ecstasy from Kyungsoo's caresses. A familiar sensation ran down his spine, as if shivers cascaded from the back of his neck to the middle of his back, while Kyungsoo's lips traced a path along his chin, seeking precisely the spot that always made the younger man sigh. Chanyeol felt the kiss as a memory. That's exactly what it was. He knew everything Kyungsoo would do next and didn't rush it. In fact, he only felt the touches as if they were dancing with bound hands but open hearts. Completely surrendered to each other.

"Chan..." Kyungsoo sighed.

It was just his name, but it was enough for Capuleto to understand all his words. He pulled away from the young man, observing him while his large hands remained placed on his chest. Kyungsoo was smaller than him, but far more beautiful. That's what Chanyeol felt when he looked at the long blond hair and the lips marked by love: his beauty was breathtaking.

"You are beautiful, Kyungsoo," he murmured.

Montecchio looked at him hypnotically. The dilated pupils were filled with the same feeling that haunted Chanyeol's own flesh — Lust. A lust that consumed all his senses. He felt so drawn to him that he could feel his skin heating up like flames, burning throughout his body. Both could see themselves in that moment, knowing they were in the same place.

"Chanyeol..." Kyungsoo murmured. "First, I must tell you a thousand reasons for my sudden visit. I believe... you already have an idea of why I came here."

"Kyungsoo..."

Chanyeol let his name escape from his lips as if committing the most mortal of sins. And he knew he was. For it was only a matter of time before they lost themselves in their own heresy and were sent to the ends of the Earth. All because their love was forbidden, yet greater than all the rules created by humanity. Greater than time, greater than all fears, and greater than the words that didn't need to be spoken. And in that moment, it was even greater than that exact moment.

"I believe you now," Capuleto whispered. "I believe in what you wanted to tell me. I believe that you were made for me, and I for you. I believe I cannot live the same way when I already know the only life I dream of every day since I held your hand in this very place."

"Then accept the proposal I have come to make, Chanyeol Capuleto, and run away with me into the unknown. Hold my hand for the second time and believe me when I say I will do everything to support you in the darkest hours and love you as the dearest treasure. I believe our love is pure and will grow like the wind lilies: gentle in its innocence but abundant. Hold onto me and never let go, I beg of you. And then my promises will hold some value."

Chanyeol looked at him as if it were both the last and the first time. He could choose to continue living the same story, drawing on the same blank pages that he had known since he became a grown man: marriage, children, and inheritance. That was the destiny his family had traced for him since he was born into the golden cradle of the House of Capuleto. But he knew he would never find genuine happiness if he didn't follow his heart. He knew that it was the timeline crossing, circling around so that his Destiny could intertwine with Kyungsoo's once again. Because it was Kyungsoo Montecchio who held his Destiny there, at the tips of his fingers.

Kyungsoo extended his hand to him with a smile of pure delight. The same smile that ignited the fire of hope in his soul. Chanyeol thought it would be foolish to be deceived by thoughts when everything was so obvious, right in front of him. It had been clear all along, and only now had he realized it.

With that same smile, he accepted his hand. He could feel the familiar warmth and shivers running up his arm. He looked deep into the eyes that reflected his soul entirely and said:

"I must be the most foolish of fools, Montecchio. But someone once told me that only true acts of bravery can nourish a noble, burning heart." Chanyeol approached him, speaking more softly this time. "But it is you who carries my flame. So I see no other option but to accept your proposal."

Kyungsoo smiled at him. He pulled him closer, sealing their hands with a chaste kiss. He looked up at Chanyeol with pure sarcasm and said:

"Then let us seal it with a promise, my love. Let us start with forever, and until then, only Time will tell if your bargain lived up to your expectations."

Capuleto smiled.

He agreed with him. And because he agreed so wholeheartedly, on that very night, while everyone else slept in peaceful slumber, Capuleto and Montecchio abandoned the ancestral rivalry of their Houses to live a life together, bound by the same Destiny. They left the city and left behind all those who doubted their innocence. They were just two boys, freed from the prison of Verona, embarking on the unknown they longed to explore. They were unsure of what the future held for them, but the only thing that mattered was what they had for each other. For they loved each other abundantly enough for an act of bravery like that to be worth committing.

And they had never felt so brave before.