Fated Love Ch.7
Chapter 7 : Of Love and Friendship
Summary : Between two people, a friend and love, will he choose one of them?
Pairing : TopRi
Rating : R to be save
Warning : Bad grammar
Disclaimer : nothing but the plot.
A/N : Let's have dinner~~!!!!!! Owh before that, about the fraud case that Seunghyun was charged to, I know it's a bit confusing but it's just FICTIONAL. Don't stress yourself too much about it okay. Owh wow... what a nice dinner Seungri and Seunghyun had! I want to eat!
Chapter 6 : The Drumming Sound
******
The housekeeper set a four side table in the middle of Seunghyun's huge room. Seungri watched while sitting on the bed as the butler and the housekeeper set a white table cloth on the table with plates and glasses and everything, to perfection. The butler then set a small vast with two dozen of lavender roses enchanting the room. It totally looks like a perfect romantic dinner. Seungri's heart almost leaps outside his body. The dinner looked so special as if it was meant for a couple in loves. He wondered why.
Seunghyun entered the room. He wore a Calvin Klein's black button down shirt with brown colour vest, flat front black khaki and Luis Vuitton's clipper sneakers. Seunghyun's charismatic aura filled the room as if the room can't exist without it. Seungri felt like someone had slapped him on the face but he felt nothing when he saw Seunghyun. "He's totally looked different from the magazine or TV. So handsome in person", he thought. His whole body somehow vibrates and Seungri quietly tried to shake that feeling. Seunghyun walked to him and smiled. And the vibrations just accelerate.
Seunghyun : Well, dinner is ready. Shall we?
Seunghyun offered his hand and Seungri's hands shaking while he reached and placed his hand on Seunghyun's. Seunghyun held Seungri firmly. Then he wrapped his other hand on Seungri's right shoulder. Taking a step forward, Seunghyun helped him walk to the table. Although they are practically stranger to each other but somehow Seungri can felt a familiar feeling of Seunghyun's touches.
The butler pulled out Seungri's chair and Seunghyun help Seungri to sit.
Seungri : Thank you (grin)
Seunghyun : You're welcome.
Seunghyun pull the chair across the table and sit face to face with Seungri. He smiled to Seungri before he nods at the butler to start serving the dinner.
*******
It's only Seunghyun and him, but he truly never imagined that the dinner will be quite lavish. He never had that kind of dinner, where everything on the table only served with the most expensive and the best in the world. He's a chef; of course he knew the value of each and everything that was served on the plate. But the thing that impressed Seungri the most is the food. It was so delicious, one of a kind experience.
They had crostini with mushrooms, prosciutto and blue cheese, and shrimp appetizer supreme as their appetizers. Then after that for the second course they had roasted beet soup with crème fraiche. After the second course, they were served with mixed green salad with tarragon vinaigrette and balsamic shrimp as their third course. Seungri's taste bud was so overwhelmed with the amazing tastes from the earlier course when their main entrees arrived at the table. It was grilled rack of lamb with pinot noir marinade.
Seungri raised his eyebrows. It looked delicious like the other courses, almost making Seungri jump with excitement, but he's thinking hard about how to eat it with one hand in a sling tied to his neck. "How in the world I'm going to eat this delicious lamb?", he thought. But then he picked up the knife with his left hand and start to cut the lamb into pieces. "Difficult or not, I'm going to eat this thing clean", he smiled as he dug in his plate. He tried to cut it slow but the meat was medium well cooked so he tried again but it was to no avail and he dropped the knife on the table.
Seunghyun watched Seungri struggled with the lamb. His face wrenched a smile looking at how serious yet cute look on Seungri's face trying to eat the lamb. His heart twinge a bit looking at Seungri, a feeling of rescue dominating his mind, he needs to help that boy. So, he stands up and ordered his butler to move his sitting besides Seungri.
Seungri looking up to Seunghyun's face, frowning. He almost dropped the knife to the floor as he watched the butler was moving the chair to the side of table beside him. Seunghyun sat on the chair as the butler placed his plates and glasses. He smiled to Seungri. His hands reaching the knife that Seungri was holding and the fork that lay on the table.
Seungri watched every Seunghyun's moves and almost dropped his jaw when Seunghyun start to slice the lamb which was in Seungri's plate. Seunghyun cut the lamb into small pieces that can be chew by Seungri. Seungri gulped his saliva, nervous. He's aware of the close distance between him and Seunghyun, breathing the scents of Seunghyun's Issey Miyake cologne. The vibrations from before travel down his spine.
Seunghyun : (cutting the lamb) So how long have you been a chef? (wreathed in smile)
Seungri : (cough a bit) Th-three years?
Seunghyun : (nod) Owh. That's quite impressive. And you're now a chef in one of the most famous restaurant in a short period.
Seungri : (shy, looking at Seunghyun's hand cutting the lamb) It's all because of Daesung hyung. He helped me a lot.
Seunghyun : (hand stop cutting, looking up at Seungri) Who is he?
Seungri : (grin) He's my boss. But he's also my mentor and my hyung. He's very nice. Always takes care of me.
Seunghyun : (narrowed his eyes, nod, continue cutting) So, do you live with your family?
Seungri : (shook his head) Nope. I live alone. And.. I don't have any family. Not anymore.
Seunghyun : (stop cutting, drop the knife and fork, looking at Seungri, confuse) What do you mean by anymore?
Seungri : (shrugged his shoulder, sigh) I never see my parents. The only thing I knew about them is that they both died in a car accident while I was still a baby. So I was raised by my grandmother then until I was 16.
Seunghyun : I'm sorry to hear that, Ri.
Seungri : It's okay (small smile)
Seunghyun : So is your grandmother still living in Gwangju?
Seungri : (bit down his lip) My grandmother... She passed away a month ago.
Seunghyun : I'm so sorry, Seungri (looking at Seungri with concern)
Seungri : (shook his head) Nope. It's okay. It's been a while now. And I've accepted the fact that I'm going to live in this world alone without my family.
Seunghyun didn't know what to say to comfort Seungri, because his heart also pulling the strings of sadness and lost. They're both having something in common. Living all alone in this world without family. No one in sane mind would feel happy about a lost of a family member. In the end, family is the most important thing. He looked at Seungri with emotions whirled in his heart.
Seungri turn his head to the plate, looking at all the lamb pieces Seunghyun had cut for him.
Seungri : (smile and grin) Owh.. now I can eat this delicious lamb! (took a mouthful, Seungri raised his eyebrows while chewing the meat) Owh my God! This is so divine! (took a mouthful again)
Seunghyun laugh watching Seungri's expression. Seungri is such an adorable. The way Seungri smile and laugh wholeheartedly makes his heart thumping loudly.
******
After their main entrees finished, the butler served the desserts which is chocolate panna cotta with port balsamic cherries. And lastly, the butler served two cups of decaf latte which is actually a good way to end a meal. It was very comforting. Seungri felt really happy for having such a marvellous dinner. He felt like his injuries were cured right away. Seungri sipping the latte and then looking up to the window. It was raining outside.
Seungri : (smile) Thank you, Mr.Choi, for the dinner.
Seunghyun : Please just call me Seunghyun.
Seungri : (nod and smile) Seunghyun hyung.
Something stirred inside Seunghyun's heart. It's not like no one ever called him Seunghyun hyung before, Jiyong does it all the time, but the way Seungri said his name. It's something special to him. His eyes fixed on Seungri. The dim light that shone on Seungri's face show the beautiful side of Seungri's face. Almost like Seungri's skin glowing in the dark.
Seungri : Looks like it's going to rain the whole night (smile)
Seunghyun : (amazed, staring at Seungri) Yeah. Beautiful.
Seungri smiled before taking another sip of his latte. The aroma of the latte and the sound of rain were very calming. It's been a long time since Seungri felt this calm. He turned his head to Seunghyun. His eyes blinked a few times, realising that Seunghyun had been staring at him. He smiled to Seunghyun but the only thing that Seunghyun did was kept staring back at him. And he felt weird having Seunghyun kept staring at him.
Seungri : (slow voice) Err.. Hyung..
But Seunghyun still staring at him not moving. Seungri tried again.
Seungri : Seunghyun hyung.
Still there's no answer from Seunghyun. "What's wrong with him?", Seungri thought. "Maybe he saw something behind me. But what?", he turned his head back looking behind him, but there's nothing. "A ghost??", he turned back his head to Seunghyun.
Seungri : Hyung! (scared)
Seunghyun : (startled) Huh? Ye-yes, Seungri?
Seungri : (scared) Did you see ghost?
Seunghyun : (confused) Err.. Ghost?
Seungri : (nod frantically) You've been staring! Did you see ghost? Is there a ghost here?? (scared, bringing his arms closer to his body)
Seunghyun : No-no. (laugh) There's no ghost here.
Seungri : Are you sure? Because I'm really afraid of ghost, hyung (scared)
Seunghyun : (laugh out loud so hard) Seungri.. There is no such thing as ghost.
Seungri : (rolled his eyes) That means you didn't watch Thirteen Ghost, hyung.
Seunghyun laugh his heart out. It is impossible not to laugh at Seungri's cuteness.
*******
It's almost midnight and they have been sitting, talking, laughing and watching the rain. They're talking about childhood past, well, technically Seungri's childhood past. Most of his past with Jiyong. Seunghyun doesn't mind hearing about the stories but his heart clenched a bit, knowing the fact that Jiyong had already existed in Seungri's life long before him.
Seungri : (laugh) Jiyong hyung is really funny and smart. The only boy who can get the baby bird without being stung by bees. I don't know how he can come out with the idea using trampoline under the trees. (giggles)
Seunghyun : (pursed his lips) You both seem to have a nice time growing up together.
Seungri : Yeap, I do. One of the most memorable things I would cherished in my life.
Seunghyun : (looks down, taking the last sip of his latte)
Seungri : (yawning) Uhh.. I'm sorry.
Seunghyun : (smiles) You should get some sleep and rest.
Seunghyun walks over to Seungri and gave his hand. Seungri looked up to him, smiled and slowly gave his hand to him. He help Seungri lifted his body, while his arm reaching below Seungri's when suddenly the sound of thunder that follows a flash of lightning shocked Seungri. Seungri trampled over the chair but Seunghyun catches Seungri from falling to the floor. He grasped Seungri's body, their chest flushed together. His hand was firm around Seungri's waist. And there's was nothing louder than the sound of his heartbeat rolling in his ears.
Seungri groaned at the pain. His injured leg hit the chair. But the firm hold around his waist overpowering the malady. He looked into Seunghyun's eyes, a pair of deep brown eyes staring at him down to his soul. He found his face was hot from Seunghyun's warm stare. His heart skips a beat and it sends shivers down his spine. Probably his cheeks were blushing right now.
Seunghyun : (stutters) Se-Seungri? Are you okay? Does your leg hurt?
Seungri : No-no. I'm fine.
Seungri tried to stand up but the pain spreads makes him fall back into Seunghyun's arms. Okay, he lied. Seunghyun shook his head a bit before moving his arm below Seungri's shoulder and another arm below Seungri's knees. Seungri got the message.
Seungri : (try to wiggle away) Err.. err hyung.. There's no need...
Seunghyun : (carry Seungri's body in his arms) Just stay still, Seungri.
Seunghyun carried Seungri slowly to the bed. It's not a long way though just a few steps but, Seungri felt something swirled inside his heart. Mixed feelings that he can't sorted out. He watched Seunghyun's face glowing under the dim light. He doesn't understand why but he felt like the man that was holding him is like a mystery he knew. "Why? Why do I feel like I'm connected to him?", he thought.
Seunghyun knows Seungri is watching him which gave him a serious mental war. There is nothing in the world he wants more than to kiss Seungri right now. "Why he have to be so beautiful? So delicate and so tempting?", he thought. Walking to the bed while carrying a beautiful person in his arms is so arousing. Desires flooded all his nerves. He glanced to Seungri. Catching the beautiful sight. Seungri looked away from him face. Somehow he can feel Seungri's body shaking in his arms. "No. No. I must restrain myself", he fought his mind.
Seunghyun carefully placed Seungri on the bed. Seungri sits and rest his back on the headboard. Seunghyun pulled the blanket and covered Seungri's legs. He stands besides the bed while looking down to Seungri.
Seunghyun : (bit his lip) About what you said before.. I don't think you will be alone in this world. Th-there must be someone out there who will takes care of you and lo-love you for whom you are.
Seungri : (sly smirk) I don't think there's anyone out there who would wants to be with me. I don't deserved to have someone to say 'I love you' to someone like me.
A slight of pain felt across Seunghyun's face. His heart clenched.
Seunghyun : (his throat felt rough) You-you just have to believe in it, Seungri.
Seungri : (his eyes misted as he looks down) I did. Before someone stole it from me. And I will never get it back.
*******
He poured some scotch in the glass. Sometimes when having empire is too much to handle, he drinks and looked to skies at night. He walks over to the big window, looking at the city from high. Tonight is not the law he tries to fight. Tonight he fights himself. He looks up to the sky, his heart asking whatever there is up there, "If everything happens for a reason... Then tell me what the reason for hurting him is?"
*******
Seungri turned his head on the pillow, looking to the window. "Someone like me can't have someone like him", he thought as a tear rolled down from Seungri's eyes and disappeared when the rain stopped.
*******
It was morning again. The city continues its busy life with drama and reality. Seungri felt gloomy last night, but today morning, he felt happy accompanied by laughs and Jiyong at his side.
Jiyong : (eating the omelette) Ermm.. you really should try this. Sir Benedict Omelette. Only the best! (laugh while feeding Seungri)
Seungri : (nod) Wow.. It's delicious!
Jiyong : (nod, grin) It is, right? Seunghyun hyung's chef is one of the best chefs in South Korea. No one knows except close relatives and employees. He is the highest paid personal chef in Korea. A master chef.
Seungri : (excited) Really, hyung? Who is it?
Jiyong : (shrugged) I don't know. I never met him. I remembered when I was in the middle school I did try to ask the butler and the housekeepers who's the chef, but all of them kept their mouth shut. They never told anyone. So I asked Seunghyun hyung and he said that he's not allowed to tell people about it. It's a secret.
Seungri : (frowned) But why it is a secret?
Jiyong : Because the chef is so good, they don't want other people to know and hire him.
Seungri : (eyes wide) Really?
Jiyong : (nod) Yeap. Plus, Seunghyun hyung's father was very... intimidating. A powerful man. He seriously didn't like to share with other people. I guess it's the side of the family (laugh)
Seungri : (giggles) Was his father very intimidating like him?
Jiyong : (shook his head) No. Not even close. His father was really scary. I didn't even dare to raised my face around him. Once I got scolded by him just because I'm with Seunghyun hyung when he burnt down the school. That's the first and the last time I ever got on his nerves. He was angry because I'm very close with his son. He thought Seunghyun hyung gave a bad influence to me.
Seungri : (shocked) Wait. Seunghyun hyung burnt down the school?!
Jiyong : (nod) Not exactly an entire school. He burnt down a gym and a small church which was connected to the gym down the hallway.
Seungri : Owh my God! (shocked, and laugh)
Jiyong : (laugh) God bless his soul (do a little pray, and then laugh again) That ultra-cool motherfucker. But let me tell you one secret though. He does actually have a soft heart. Just that he doesn't like to show it to people. For the sake of the great 'I'm Choi Seunghyun' image (impersonating Seunghyun's style)
They were both laughing at the table. Enjoying their breakfast. But watching from the hallway with shot staring eyes are Seunghyun. "What is that fucktard doing here? I didn't recall of inviting him especially to breakfast with Seungri?". A hint of jealousy crept inside him as he walked to the table watching two laughing guests in his house.
Seunghyun : (cough)
Seungri : (smiles shyly) Morning, hyung.
Seunghyun : (nod and smiles) Morning, Seungri. And morning to you too, Ji (taking a sit in front Jiyong beside Seungri, ask politely) What do you do here so early, Ji?
Jiyong : (notices the shy smile on Seungri's face) Nothing. Just having breakfast with Seungri (wipe his mouth with his napkin)
Seunghyun : (nod at the butler, the butler set his breakfast on the table) I got your memo about today's meeting (eating his breakfast)
Jiyong : (nod, still looking at Seungri) Good. Then I don't have to worry about your presence there?
Seunghyun : (stop) Is that a question or just talking?
Jiyong : (smirk, his hand pressed tight at the fork) Both.
Seunghyun : Yes, I will be there (look at Jiyong)
Jiyong : (sigh) Well, I'll take my leave. See you there, hyung. (smiles to Seungri, pats Seungri's hand) Take care, Ri. I will come again.
Seungri : (smiles) You too, hyung. Have a nice day.
Jiyong : (stands up and leave)
Seunghyun : (ask Seungri) How's your breakfast?
Seungri : (grins) Great! I heard your secret chef is the best chef in Korea.
Seunghyun : (shocked) What? How do you know that? What else that brat told you?
Seungri : (laugh) Apparently you burnt down a church.
Seunghyun : I'm going to kill that prick.
Seungri : (laugh)
Walking down the hallway to the elevator, Jiyong heard the faint conversation and laughs that was going on in Seunghyun's room. He noticed the shy smile Seungri gave to Seunghyun. And he hates that he noticed Seungri's sudden change of body expression when Seunghyun appeared. It was different the way Seungri smiled, the way Seungri looked at Seunghyun, the way Seungri laugh. Different! He hates that he noticed all of those things. The elevator door opens and he entered the confined space. His body was hot with every atom of jealousy. He yanked away his neatly tied tie.
*******
There are 5 highly experienced lawyers including Jiyong who lead the team in defending Seunghyun in the meeting room. They have been sitting in their meeting room discussing the way, what should they do in order not to let Seunghyun being charged guilty. The stake is too high. If proved guilty, Seunghyun might go to prison for 5 years and he will have to pay $180 million fine. Seunghyun was charged for real estate fraud involving 3 property of real estate that worth $80 million.
Seunghyun can't believe that this is all happening to him. It started about a year ago, when he was interested in buying that property. Usually under his name, TOP Empire will be the one to deal with the legal documents before buying any property, but he did one mistake though. He bought the property from a third party. Since TOP Empire is the biggest company in real estate business, there's so many company, big or small company fighting each other to get some projects from TOP Empire.
Apparently Kim Hyunjoong, which is a businessman showed his interest to that property too and offered to scout the property for Seunghyun. Of course, in that way it will give advantage to Hyunjoong if Seunghyun showed some interest to make future deals with him. So, Hyunjoong offered to scout the property for him, buy the property first and Seunghyun can buy back the property from Hyunjoong. Seunghyun agreed because of course it will be a lot easier for him, and besides, they both had several contracts together, so he knew Hyunjoong is a good businessman.
Unfortunately without Seunghyun's acknowledgement, the property was sold to him $30 million less than the real property valued. So, now he is charged of obtaining for himself, 2 plots of land and a 30 storey building from Hyunjoong, for $50 million, which is much lower than the original price. Seunghyun listened to Jiyong who is now discussing the defendant’s case.
Jiyong : Don't worry hyung. The prosecutors don't have a solid case right now.
Seunghyun : (confused) But how can that be? They had Hyunjoong as their witness to testify against me.
Jiyong : (smirked) The Attorney General thought they will have a good case if they had Hyunjoong against you. But the truth are they don't. We knew that Hyunjoong bought the property for you and sold it back to you much lower than the original price. He must have some motives! We can say that it is an opportunity to gain favours by buying you that property and sold it back for cheaper price. That's our case, hyung! The prosecutors won't have any more way to defend their case.
Seunghyun : But he will deny that, right?
Jiyong : (nod) Of course. But listen, hyung. The prosecutors will find every way to make you look guilty. But we knew that it is not you who are guilty but Hyunjoong. We just have to shift the direction from you to Hyunjoong in front of the jury.
Seunghyun : (sighed) Okay.
Jiyong : Don't worry hyung. I got your back. I think we're done for now.
Seunghyun : (stands up, and bow to all the lawyers) Thank you to all of you.
Lawyers : (bow back to Seunghyun, and left the room)
Jiyong : (packing up his file) I have something to talk to you.
Seunghyun : (sits on his chair) Okay.
Jiyong : (standing, hands inside his pocket, looking down to Seunghyun) I think you should let Seungri stay in the hospital.
Seunghyun : (shocked, but then hide his expression, calm) He's my responsibility, Ji. You knew I ran over him. How can I let him stay in the hospital, alone?
Jiyong : (serious) Then let him stay in my house.
Seunghyun : (taken aback) What? Why?
Jiyong : (stutters) Be-because you never had any responsibility towards other people. And how do you expect me to believe that you can be responsible to Seungri?!
Seunghyun : I'm doing it just fine right now, Ji. Why do you have to be so worry? I've got everything I can give to him.
Jiyong is frustrated. He doesn’t know what to say to Seunghyun. It's not about what Seunghyun can give to Seungri, but it's about what Seungri can't get from Seunghyun. And by just looking at Seungri's expression this morning to Seunghyun, he's afraid. He knew, there's something going on between them. But he's not sure what it is exactly. He wasted 10 years in his life finding Seungri and now he can't let Seungri slipped away. Not to anyone especially to a person he already thought as his brother. "What if Seungri had fell in love with Seunghyun? What if I was too late?", his body shaking with the thoughts.
Jiyong : (rub his face) Se-Seungri is meaningful to me, hyung. I lost him 10 years ago. And I don't want to lose him again.
Seunghyun : It's only for a couple of days, Ji. He's staying in my house until he will be fine to walk at least. You can still visit him. It's not like I'm not allowing you to be with your friend.
Jiyong : (snapped) You don't get it, hyung! I love him!
Seunghyun : (shocked) What?
Jiyong : Yes. I know. I'm gay (sigh)
Seunghyun : (body freezes, eyes wide, sunk into his chair)
Jiyong : I love him 10 years ago. I love him since. And I love him now.
Seunghyun felt like a giant rock had came crashing him down right now. And from all the heavy reality he had faced, this one is the heaviest.
******
--series of flashback (Seunghyun's thoughts)--
Private Investigator : (gave a file to Seunghyun) This is what I have gathered about Lee Seunghyun, boss.
Seunghyun : Tell me about him.
Private Investigator : He's the only child of the family. His parents died in a car accident involving a drunken truck driver. After that he had lived with his grandmother until he was 16, where he moved to Seoul to learn at the International Culinary Arts. He became an apprentice at The Rockpool Restaurant for one year before landed the job as pastry chef. Here are all the details about him over the past 3 years. His loans, telephone bills, credit card bills, atm, travels, all his financial information, medical information and also his list of contacts. But there is information, I got from my friend in the police station. A month ago, there's a recorded phone call about a missing person named Lee Seunghyun. The caller is actually his boss, Kang Daesung. From the conversation, Mr. Lee went missing from a night club called The Zouk around 2 am right after they both went outside the club. Less than 10 hours after the phone call, a doctor from Gwangju Hospital informed that Mr. Lee’s grandmother died of heart attack. Those events occurred on the same day.
Seungri : My grandmother... She passed away a month ago.
Private Investigator : Those events occurred on the same day.
Those events occurred on the same day.. Same day...
Seungri : I don't think there's anyone out there who would wants to be with me. I don't deserved to have someone to say 'I love you' to someone like me.
Seungri : Le-let me go.
Seunghyun : Shut up!
Seunghyun : Such a pretty body. Makes me want to.. (lick his lip)
Seungri : Wh-what? Please.. Don't..
Seungri : Please.. Stop! (sobs)
Jiyong : You don't get it, hyung! I love him!
Jiyong : I love him 10 years ago. I love him since. And I love him now.
Seungri : I did. Before someone stole it from me. And I will never get it back.
I did. Before someone stole it from me.... Stole it from me..
--series of flashback (Seunghyun's thoughts) ends--
Pang! The sound of glass shattered on the floor echoed all over the wall. His hands scattered all the things on his table. The sound of things clattered as he yelled out his guilt away. He cried there, hands grasping his hair. Seunghyun fell to his knees, fell into a shadow, ghost of guilt haunting him, he silently cried, whispered things that can never change back, "Who I am.... Hates who I've been...".
*******
(A/N : Thank you for reading it all the way to the end of this chapter. I have good news and a bad news. The good news is I finished writing the plots for FL until the end! The bad news is it's just the plot not the whole writing. So do you think you need some spoilers for the next chapter? I know you do. That's why I'm giving you some hint. Solve the words below and you get to guess a bit about the next chapter! Kekeke ^^. As always comments are loved)
Reminder : This is just optional. I know some of you like to be surprise. If you want you can solve it (^.^)
Hints :
1) 12 letters ---> _ _-_ _ _ _ r _ _ _ d _
2) 2 words ----> S _ e _ _ _ i _ _ - _ _ e _ _
Is this exciting or what? XD
Summary : Between two people, a friend and love, will he choose one of them?
Pairing : TopRi
Rating : R to be save
Warning : Bad grammar
Disclaimer : nothing but the plot.
A/N : Let's have dinner~~!!!!!! Owh before that, about the fraud case that Seunghyun was charged to, I know it's a bit confusing but it's just FICTIONAL. Don't stress yourself too much about it okay. Owh wow... what a nice dinner Seungri and Seunghyun had! I want to eat!
Chapter 6 : The Drumming Sound
******
The housekeeper set a four side table in the middle of Seunghyun's huge room. Seungri watched while sitting on the bed as the butler and the housekeeper set a white table cloth on the table with plates and glasses and everything, to perfection. The butler then set a small vast with two dozen of lavender roses enchanting the room. It totally looks like a perfect romantic dinner. Seungri's heart almost leaps outside his body. The dinner looked so special as if it was meant for a couple in loves. He wondered why.
Seunghyun entered the room. He wore a Calvin Klein's black button down shirt with brown colour vest, flat front black khaki and Luis Vuitton's clipper sneakers. Seunghyun's charismatic aura filled the room as if the room can't exist without it. Seungri felt like someone had slapped him on the face but he felt nothing when he saw Seunghyun. "He's totally looked different from the magazine or TV. So handsome in person", he thought. His whole body somehow vibrates and Seungri quietly tried to shake that feeling. Seunghyun walked to him and smiled. And the vibrations just accelerate.
Seunghyun : Well, dinner is ready. Shall we?
Seunghyun offered his hand and Seungri's hands shaking while he reached and placed his hand on Seunghyun's. Seunghyun held Seungri firmly. Then he wrapped his other hand on Seungri's right shoulder. Taking a step forward, Seunghyun helped him walk to the table. Although they are practically stranger to each other but somehow Seungri can felt a familiar feeling of Seunghyun's touches.
The butler pulled out Seungri's chair and Seunghyun help Seungri to sit.
Seungri : Thank you (grin)
Seunghyun : You're welcome.
Seunghyun pull the chair across the table and sit face to face with Seungri. He smiled to Seungri before he nods at the butler to start serving the dinner.
*******
It's only Seunghyun and him, but he truly never imagined that the dinner will be quite lavish. He never had that kind of dinner, where everything on the table only served with the most expensive and the best in the world. He's a chef; of course he knew the value of each and everything that was served on the plate. But the thing that impressed Seungri the most is the food. It was so delicious, one of a kind experience.
They had crostini with mushrooms, prosciutto and blue cheese, and shrimp appetizer supreme as their appetizers. Then after that for the second course they had roasted beet soup with crème fraiche. After the second course, they were served with mixed green salad with tarragon vinaigrette and balsamic shrimp as their third course. Seungri's taste bud was so overwhelmed with the amazing tastes from the earlier course when their main entrees arrived at the table. It was grilled rack of lamb with pinot noir marinade.
Seungri raised his eyebrows. It looked delicious like the other courses, almost making Seungri jump with excitement, but he's thinking hard about how to eat it with one hand in a sling tied to his neck. "How in the world I'm going to eat this delicious lamb?", he thought. But then he picked up the knife with his left hand and start to cut the lamb into pieces. "Difficult or not, I'm going to eat this thing clean", he smiled as he dug in his plate. He tried to cut it slow but the meat was medium well cooked so he tried again but it was to no avail and he dropped the knife on the table.
Seunghyun watched Seungri struggled with the lamb. His face wrenched a smile looking at how serious yet cute look on Seungri's face trying to eat the lamb. His heart twinge a bit looking at Seungri, a feeling of rescue dominating his mind, he needs to help that boy. So, he stands up and ordered his butler to move his sitting besides Seungri.
Seungri looking up to Seunghyun's face, frowning. He almost dropped the knife to the floor as he watched the butler was moving the chair to the side of table beside him. Seunghyun sat on the chair as the butler placed his plates and glasses. He smiled to Seungri. His hands reaching the knife that Seungri was holding and the fork that lay on the table.
Seungri watched every Seunghyun's moves and almost dropped his jaw when Seunghyun start to slice the lamb which was in Seungri's plate. Seunghyun cut the lamb into small pieces that can be chew by Seungri. Seungri gulped his saliva, nervous. He's aware of the close distance between him and Seunghyun, breathing the scents of Seunghyun's Issey Miyake cologne. The vibrations from before travel down his spine.
Seunghyun : (cutting the lamb) So how long have you been a chef? (wreathed in smile)
Seungri : (cough a bit) Th-three years?
Seunghyun : (nod) Owh. That's quite impressive. And you're now a chef in one of the most famous restaurant in a short period.
Seungri : (shy, looking at Seunghyun's hand cutting the lamb) It's all because of Daesung hyung. He helped me a lot.
Seunghyun : (hand stop cutting, looking up at Seungri) Who is he?
Seungri : (grin) He's my boss. But he's also my mentor and my hyung. He's very nice. Always takes care of me.
Seunghyun : (narrowed his eyes, nod, continue cutting) So, do you live with your family?
Seungri : (shook his head) Nope. I live alone. And.. I don't have any family. Not anymore.
Seunghyun : (stop cutting, drop the knife and fork, looking at Seungri, confuse) What do you mean by anymore?
Seungri : (shrugged his shoulder, sigh) I never see my parents. The only thing I knew about them is that they both died in a car accident while I was still a baby. So I was raised by my grandmother then until I was 16.
Seunghyun : I'm sorry to hear that, Ri.
Seungri : It's okay (small smile)
Seunghyun : So is your grandmother still living in Gwangju?
Seungri : (bit down his lip) My grandmother... She passed away a month ago.
Seunghyun : I'm so sorry, Seungri (looking at Seungri with concern)
Seungri : (shook his head) Nope. It's okay. It's been a while now. And I've accepted the fact that I'm going to live in this world alone without my family.
Seunghyun didn't know what to say to comfort Seungri, because his heart also pulling the strings of sadness and lost. They're both having something in common. Living all alone in this world without family. No one in sane mind would feel happy about a lost of a family member. In the end, family is the most important thing. He looked at Seungri with emotions whirled in his heart.
Seungri turn his head to the plate, looking at all the lamb pieces Seunghyun had cut for him.
Seungri : (smile and grin) Owh.. now I can eat this delicious lamb! (took a mouthful, Seungri raised his eyebrows while chewing the meat) Owh my God! This is so divine! (took a mouthful again)
Seunghyun laugh watching Seungri's expression. Seungri is such an adorable. The way Seungri smile and laugh wholeheartedly makes his heart thumping loudly.
******
After their main entrees finished, the butler served the desserts which is chocolate panna cotta with port balsamic cherries. And lastly, the butler served two cups of decaf latte which is actually a good way to end a meal. It was very comforting. Seungri felt really happy for having such a marvellous dinner. He felt like his injuries were cured right away. Seungri sipping the latte and then looking up to the window. It was raining outside.
Seungri : (smile) Thank you, Mr.Choi, for the dinner.
Seunghyun : Please just call me Seunghyun.
Seungri : (nod and smile) Seunghyun hyung.
Something stirred inside Seunghyun's heart. It's not like no one ever called him Seunghyun hyung before, Jiyong does it all the time, but the way Seungri said his name. It's something special to him. His eyes fixed on Seungri. The dim light that shone on Seungri's face show the beautiful side of Seungri's face. Almost like Seungri's skin glowing in the dark.
Seungri : Looks like it's going to rain the whole night (smile)
Seunghyun : (amazed, staring at Seungri) Yeah. Beautiful.
Seungri smiled before taking another sip of his latte. The aroma of the latte and the sound of rain were very calming. It's been a long time since Seungri felt this calm. He turned his head to Seunghyun. His eyes blinked a few times, realising that Seunghyun had been staring at him. He smiled to Seunghyun but the only thing that Seunghyun did was kept staring back at him. And he felt weird having Seunghyun kept staring at him.
Seungri : (slow voice) Err.. Hyung..
But Seunghyun still staring at him not moving. Seungri tried again.
Seungri : Seunghyun hyung.
Still there's no answer from Seunghyun. "What's wrong with him?", Seungri thought. "Maybe he saw something behind me. But what?", he turned his head back looking behind him, but there's nothing. "A ghost??", he turned back his head to Seunghyun.
Seungri : Hyung! (scared)
Seunghyun : (startled) Huh? Ye-yes, Seungri?
Seungri : (scared) Did you see ghost?
Seunghyun : (confused) Err.. Ghost?
Seungri : (nod frantically) You've been staring! Did you see ghost? Is there a ghost here?? (scared, bringing his arms closer to his body)
Seunghyun : No-no. (laugh) There's no ghost here.
Seungri : Are you sure? Because I'm really afraid of ghost, hyung (scared)
Seunghyun : (laugh out loud so hard) Seungri.. There is no such thing as ghost.
Seungri : (rolled his eyes) That means you didn't watch Thirteen Ghost, hyung.
Seunghyun laugh his heart out. It is impossible not to laugh at Seungri's cuteness.
*******
It's almost midnight and they have been sitting, talking, laughing and watching the rain. They're talking about childhood past, well, technically Seungri's childhood past. Most of his past with Jiyong. Seunghyun doesn't mind hearing about the stories but his heart clenched a bit, knowing the fact that Jiyong had already existed in Seungri's life long before him.
Seungri : (laugh) Jiyong hyung is really funny and smart. The only boy who can get the baby bird without being stung by bees. I don't know how he can come out with the idea using trampoline under the trees. (giggles)
Seunghyun : (pursed his lips) You both seem to have a nice time growing up together.
Seungri : Yeap, I do. One of the most memorable things I would cherished in my life.
Seunghyun : (looks down, taking the last sip of his latte)
Seungri : (yawning) Uhh.. I'm sorry.
Seunghyun : (smiles) You should get some sleep and rest.
Seunghyun walks over to Seungri and gave his hand. Seungri looked up to him, smiled and slowly gave his hand to him. He help Seungri lifted his body, while his arm reaching below Seungri's when suddenly the sound of thunder that follows a flash of lightning shocked Seungri. Seungri trampled over the chair but Seunghyun catches Seungri from falling to the floor. He grasped Seungri's body, their chest flushed together. His hand was firm around Seungri's waist. And there's was nothing louder than the sound of his heartbeat rolling in his ears.
Seungri groaned at the pain. His injured leg hit the chair. But the firm hold around his waist overpowering the malady. He looked into Seunghyun's eyes, a pair of deep brown eyes staring at him down to his soul. He found his face was hot from Seunghyun's warm stare. His heart skips a beat and it sends shivers down his spine. Probably his cheeks were blushing right now.
Seunghyun : (stutters) Se-Seungri? Are you okay? Does your leg hurt?
Seungri : No-no. I'm fine.
Seungri tried to stand up but the pain spreads makes him fall back into Seunghyun's arms. Okay, he lied. Seunghyun shook his head a bit before moving his arm below Seungri's shoulder and another arm below Seungri's knees. Seungri got the message.
Seungri : (try to wiggle away) Err.. err hyung.. There's no need...
Seunghyun : (carry Seungri's body in his arms) Just stay still, Seungri.
Seunghyun carried Seungri slowly to the bed. It's not a long way though just a few steps but, Seungri felt something swirled inside his heart. Mixed feelings that he can't sorted out. He watched Seunghyun's face glowing under the dim light. He doesn't understand why but he felt like the man that was holding him is like a mystery he knew. "Why? Why do I feel like I'm connected to him?", he thought.
Seunghyun knows Seungri is watching him which gave him a serious mental war. There is nothing in the world he wants more than to kiss Seungri right now. "Why he have to be so beautiful? So delicate and so tempting?", he thought. Walking to the bed while carrying a beautiful person in his arms is so arousing. Desires flooded all his nerves. He glanced to Seungri. Catching the beautiful sight. Seungri looked away from him face. Somehow he can feel Seungri's body shaking in his arms. "No. No. I must restrain myself", he fought his mind.
Seunghyun carefully placed Seungri on the bed. Seungri sits and rest his back on the headboard. Seunghyun pulled the blanket and covered Seungri's legs. He stands besides the bed while looking down to Seungri.
Seunghyun : (bit his lip) About what you said before.. I don't think you will be alone in this world. Th-there must be someone out there who will takes care of you and lo-love you for whom you are.
Seungri : (sly smirk) I don't think there's anyone out there who would wants to be with me. I don't deserved to have someone to say 'I love you' to someone like me.
A slight of pain felt across Seunghyun's face. His heart clenched.
Seunghyun : (his throat felt rough) You-you just have to believe in it, Seungri.
Seungri : (his eyes misted as he looks down) I did. Before someone stole it from me. And I will never get it back.
*******
He poured some scotch in the glass. Sometimes when having empire is too much to handle, he drinks and looked to skies at night. He walks over to the big window, looking at the city from high. Tonight is not the law he tries to fight. Tonight he fights himself. He looks up to the sky, his heart asking whatever there is up there, "If everything happens for a reason... Then tell me what the reason for hurting him is?"
*******
Seungri turned his head on the pillow, looking to the window. "Someone like me can't have someone like him", he thought as a tear rolled down from Seungri's eyes and disappeared when the rain stopped.
*******
It was morning again. The city continues its busy life with drama and reality. Seungri felt gloomy last night, but today morning, he felt happy accompanied by laughs and Jiyong at his side.
Jiyong : (eating the omelette) Ermm.. you really should try this. Sir Benedict Omelette. Only the best! (laugh while feeding Seungri)
Seungri : (nod) Wow.. It's delicious!
Jiyong : (nod, grin) It is, right? Seunghyun hyung's chef is one of the best chefs in South Korea. No one knows except close relatives and employees. He is the highest paid personal chef in Korea. A master chef.
Seungri : (excited) Really, hyung? Who is it?
Jiyong : (shrugged) I don't know. I never met him. I remembered when I was in the middle school I did try to ask the butler and the housekeepers who's the chef, but all of them kept their mouth shut. They never told anyone. So I asked Seunghyun hyung and he said that he's not allowed to tell people about it. It's a secret.
Seungri : (frowned) But why it is a secret?
Jiyong : Because the chef is so good, they don't want other people to know and hire him.
Seungri : (eyes wide) Really?
Jiyong : (nod) Yeap. Plus, Seunghyun hyung's father was very... intimidating. A powerful man. He seriously didn't like to share with other people. I guess it's the side of the family (laugh)
Seungri : (giggles) Was his father very intimidating like him?
Jiyong : (shook his head) No. Not even close. His father was really scary. I didn't even dare to raised my face around him. Once I got scolded by him just because I'm with Seunghyun hyung when he burnt down the school. That's the first and the last time I ever got on his nerves. He was angry because I'm very close with his son. He thought Seunghyun hyung gave a bad influence to me.
Seungri : (shocked) Wait. Seunghyun hyung burnt down the school?!
Jiyong : (nod) Not exactly an entire school. He burnt down a gym and a small church which was connected to the gym down the hallway.
Seungri : Owh my God! (shocked, and laugh)
Jiyong : (laugh) God bless his soul (do a little pray, and then laugh again) That ultra-cool motherfucker. But let me tell you one secret though. He does actually have a soft heart. Just that he doesn't like to show it to people. For the sake of the great 'I'm Choi Seunghyun' image (impersonating Seunghyun's style)
They were both laughing at the table. Enjoying their breakfast. But watching from the hallway with shot staring eyes are Seunghyun. "What is that fucktard doing here? I didn't recall of inviting him especially to breakfast with Seungri?". A hint of jealousy crept inside him as he walked to the table watching two laughing guests in his house.
Seunghyun : (cough)
Seungri : (smiles shyly) Morning, hyung.
Seunghyun : (nod and smiles) Morning, Seungri. And morning to you too, Ji (taking a sit in front Jiyong beside Seungri, ask politely) What do you do here so early, Ji?
Jiyong : (notices the shy smile on Seungri's face) Nothing. Just having breakfast with Seungri (wipe his mouth with his napkin)
Seunghyun : (nod at the butler, the butler set his breakfast on the table) I got your memo about today's meeting (eating his breakfast)
Jiyong : (nod, still looking at Seungri) Good. Then I don't have to worry about your presence there?
Seunghyun : (stop) Is that a question or just talking?
Jiyong : (smirk, his hand pressed tight at the fork) Both.
Seunghyun : Yes, I will be there (look at Jiyong)
Jiyong : (sigh) Well, I'll take my leave. See you there, hyung. (smiles to Seungri, pats Seungri's hand) Take care, Ri. I will come again.
Seungri : (smiles) You too, hyung. Have a nice day.
Jiyong : (stands up and leave)
Seunghyun : (ask Seungri) How's your breakfast?
Seungri : (grins) Great! I heard your secret chef is the best chef in Korea.
Seunghyun : (shocked) What? How do you know that? What else that brat told you?
Seungri : (laugh) Apparently you burnt down a church.
Seunghyun : I'm going to kill that prick.
Seungri : (laugh)
Walking down the hallway to the elevator, Jiyong heard the faint conversation and laughs that was going on in Seunghyun's room. He noticed the shy smile Seungri gave to Seunghyun. And he hates that he noticed Seungri's sudden change of body expression when Seunghyun appeared. It was different the way Seungri smiled, the way Seungri looked at Seunghyun, the way Seungri laugh. Different! He hates that he noticed all of those things. The elevator door opens and he entered the confined space. His body was hot with every atom of jealousy. He yanked away his neatly tied tie.
*******
There are 5 highly experienced lawyers including Jiyong who lead the team in defending Seunghyun in the meeting room. They have been sitting in their meeting room discussing the way, what should they do in order not to let Seunghyun being charged guilty. The stake is too high. If proved guilty, Seunghyun might go to prison for 5 years and he will have to pay $180 million fine. Seunghyun was charged for real estate fraud involving 3 property of real estate that worth $80 million.
Seunghyun can't believe that this is all happening to him. It started about a year ago, when he was interested in buying that property. Usually under his name, TOP Empire will be the one to deal with the legal documents before buying any property, but he did one mistake though. He bought the property from a third party. Since TOP Empire is the biggest company in real estate business, there's so many company, big or small company fighting each other to get some projects from TOP Empire.
Apparently Kim Hyunjoong, which is a businessman showed his interest to that property too and offered to scout the property for Seunghyun. Of course, in that way it will give advantage to Hyunjoong if Seunghyun showed some interest to make future deals with him. So, Hyunjoong offered to scout the property for him, buy the property first and Seunghyun can buy back the property from Hyunjoong. Seunghyun agreed because of course it will be a lot easier for him, and besides, they both had several contracts together, so he knew Hyunjoong is a good businessman.
Unfortunately without Seunghyun's acknowledgement, the property was sold to him $30 million less than the real property valued. So, now he is charged of obtaining for himself, 2 plots of land and a 30 storey building from Hyunjoong, for $50 million, which is much lower than the original price. Seunghyun listened to Jiyong who is now discussing the defendant’s case.
Jiyong : Don't worry hyung. The prosecutors don't have a solid case right now.
Seunghyun : (confused) But how can that be? They had Hyunjoong as their witness to testify against me.
Jiyong : (smirked) The Attorney General thought they will have a good case if they had Hyunjoong against you. But the truth are they don't. We knew that Hyunjoong bought the property for you and sold it back to you much lower than the original price. He must have some motives! We can say that it is an opportunity to gain favours by buying you that property and sold it back for cheaper price. That's our case, hyung! The prosecutors won't have any more way to defend their case.
Seunghyun : But he will deny that, right?
Jiyong : (nod) Of course. But listen, hyung. The prosecutors will find every way to make you look guilty. But we knew that it is not you who are guilty but Hyunjoong. We just have to shift the direction from you to Hyunjoong in front of the jury.
Seunghyun : (sighed) Okay.
Jiyong : Don't worry hyung. I got your back. I think we're done for now.
Seunghyun : (stands up, and bow to all the lawyers) Thank you to all of you.
Lawyers : (bow back to Seunghyun, and left the room)
Jiyong : (packing up his file) I have something to talk to you.
Seunghyun : (sits on his chair) Okay.
Jiyong : (standing, hands inside his pocket, looking down to Seunghyun) I think you should let Seungri stay in the hospital.
Seunghyun : (shocked, but then hide his expression, calm) He's my responsibility, Ji. You knew I ran over him. How can I let him stay in the hospital, alone?
Jiyong : (serious) Then let him stay in my house.
Seunghyun : (taken aback) What? Why?
Jiyong : (stutters) Be-because you never had any responsibility towards other people. And how do you expect me to believe that you can be responsible to Seungri?!
Seunghyun : I'm doing it just fine right now, Ji. Why do you have to be so worry? I've got everything I can give to him.
Jiyong is frustrated. He doesn’t know what to say to Seunghyun. It's not about what Seunghyun can give to Seungri, but it's about what Seungri can't get from Seunghyun. And by just looking at Seungri's expression this morning to Seunghyun, he's afraid. He knew, there's something going on between them. But he's not sure what it is exactly. He wasted 10 years in his life finding Seungri and now he can't let Seungri slipped away. Not to anyone especially to a person he already thought as his brother. "What if Seungri had fell in love with Seunghyun? What if I was too late?", his body shaking with the thoughts.
Jiyong : (rub his face) Se-Seungri is meaningful to me, hyung. I lost him 10 years ago. And I don't want to lose him again.
Seunghyun : It's only for a couple of days, Ji. He's staying in my house until he will be fine to walk at least. You can still visit him. It's not like I'm not allowing you to be with your friend.
Jiyong : (snapped) You don't get it, hyung! I love him!
Seunghyun : (shocked) What?
Jiyong : Yes. I know. I'm gay (sigh)
Seunghyun : (body freezes, eyes wide, sunk into his chair)
Jiyong : I love him 10 years ago. I love him since. And I love him now.
Seunghyun felt like a giant rock had came crashing him down right now. And from all the heavy reality he had faced, this one is the heaviest.
******
--series of flashback (Seunghyun's thoughts)--
Private Investigator : (gave a file to Seunghyun) This is what I have gathered about Lee Seunghyun, boss.
Seunghyun : Tell me about him.
Private Investigator : He's the only child of the family. His parents died in a car accident involving a drunken truck driver. After that he had lived with his grandmother until he was 16, where he moved to Seoul to learn at the International Culinary Arts. He became an apprentice at The Rockpool Restaurant for one year before landed the job as pastry chef. Here are all the details about him over the past 3 years. His loans, telephone bills, credit card bills, atm, travels, all his financial information, medical information and also his list of contacts. But there is information, I got from my friend in the police station. A month ago, there's a recorded phone call about a missing person named Lee Seunghyun. The caller is actually his boss, Kang Daesung. From the conversation, Mr. Lee went missing from a night club called The Zouk around 2 am right after they both went outside the club. Less than 10 hours after the phone call, a doctor from Gwangju Hospital informed that Mr. Lee’s grandmother died of heart attack. Those events occurred on the same day.
Seungri : My grandmother... She passed away a month ago.
Private Investigator : Those events occurred on the same day.
Those events occurred on the same day.. Same day...
Seungri : I don't think there's anyone out there who would wants to be with me. I don't deserved to have someone to say 'I love you' to someone like me.
Seungri : Le-let me go.
Seunghyun : Shut up!
Seunghyun : Such a pretty body. Makes me want to.. (lick his lip)
Seungri : Wh-what? Please.. Don't..
Seungri : Please.. Stop! (sobs)
Jiyong : You don't get it, hyung! I love him!
Jiyong : I love him 10 years ago. I love him since. And I love him now.
Seungri : I did. Before someone stole it from me. And I will never get it back.
I did. Before someone stole it from me.... Stole it from me..
--series of flashback (Seunghyun's thoughts) ends--
Pang! The sound of glass shattered on the floor echoed all over the wall. His hands scattered all the things on his table. The sound of things clattered as he yelled out his guilt away. He cried there, hands grasping his hair. Seunghyun fell to his knees, fell into a shadow, ghost of guilt haunting him, he silently cried, whispered things that can never change back, "Who I am.... Hates who I've been...".
*******
(A/N : Thank you for reading it all the way to the end of this chapter. I have good news and a bad news. The good news is I finished writing the plots for FL until the end! The bad news is it's just the plot not the whole writing. So do you think you need some spoilers for the next chapter? I know you do. That's why I'm giving you some hint. Solve the words below and you get to guess a bit about the next chapter! Kekeke ^^. As always comments are loved)
Reminder : This is just optional. I know some of you like to be surprise. If you want you can solve it (^.^)
Hints :
1) 12 letters ---> _ _-_ _ _ _ r _ _ _ d _
2) 2 words ----> S _ e _ _ _ i _ _ - _ _ e _ _
Is this exciting or what? XD