Myungsoo had tossed and turned in his bed that night so much that even Dongwoo, who’s a deep sleeper, woke up and scolded him.

But Myungsoo could find no peace. Knowing Sungjong still loved him was worse than thinking he hated him. Every second felt like a waste to Myungsoo, since he was not spending it with Sungjong.

What does this mean for us?

Sungjong hadn’t rejected Myungsoo, but he hadn’t accepted him either. He had left the room because Sungjong said he needed some time alone. Myungsoo knew he deserved it after all that he’d been through. Myungsoo’s own heartbeat was erratic and his brain failed to cooperate. He knew Sungjong would talk to Howon about it, because he didn’t have it in his heart to deceive anyone.

And what would Howon say?

A knock at the door woke him up from his reverie. Myungsoo thought it was Dongwoo and Sunggyu, who had gone to the dining room to breakfast. But when he opened the door, it was Howon. He couldn’t say he was shocked out of his mind.

“Come in,” Myungsoo said politely. Howon didn’t look very angry.

“Thank you.” Howon smiled.

When they both sat down, Howon initiated the conversation.

“I know this is awkward for the both of us but I need to tell you something.”

“Yes, please do.”

“We are alone right?” Myungsoo nodded in the affirmative.

“Actually, I want to beg you for something.”

Myungsoo stared at Howon.

“Please, let me have Sungjong. I have never begged in my life but just this once, I’ll be on my knees if you want, but please give me my Sungjong back.”

Myungsoo was at a loss. He looked at Howon—the emotions in his voice were genuine. But he couldn’t be feeling sorry for someone else when his own heart was in such a pathetic state.

“I’m sure I can’t live without him. I have waited so long and it was so painful. And now when happiness seems to be at hand’s reach, I’m losing him.” Howon’s voice was heavy with tears.

“I-did you talk to Sungjong about this?” Myungsoo asked.

“Yes, he said he loves you. But he said he’ll accept me if I accept him. I know I can make him forget you, eventually. I’ll try my best. Please don’t go to him anymore. Please give me the chance.”

“Howon-sshi, Sungjong might love me but that doesn’t mean he’ll accept me after all these years. But I plan to ask him, one last time. In fact, let’s do it together. If he takes your hand, I’ll go far away from you and you’ll have my blessings. Because if someone can keep my Sungjong happy, it’s you.”

“Alright then, let’s do it right now.” Howon stood up.

“Now?” Myungsoo asked. He was scared to meet his fate so soon. He wanted to stall, but every moment brought him fresh agony.

“Yes, I want to do it as soon as possible. The happiness of my life is at stake.” Myungsoo knew how Howon felt. He was on the same boat after all.

“Howon-sshi, from now on, for one of us, happiness is a myth.”