but filled with genuine relief. Taehyung glanced at their joined hands, his expression softening but still hesitant. Seojoon's grip was firm, grounding, and it made him feel momentarily lighter, despite everything.

"I've been driving myself crazy, Taehyung," Seojoon admitted, his voice quieter now, as if the weight of everything was settling in. "Thinking about that day… trying to figure it all out. But hearing you say this—it clears so much up for me. I can work with this.

I can talk to my parents and help them see it wasn't your fault… or your family." Taehyung opened his mouth, but Seojoon cut him off with a raised hand. "No, Taehyung, listen," he said, offering a small, reassuring smile. "I just needed to know where you stood. Now I do.

And I'm going to make things right. I still want to marry you. But I need you to trust me on this." Taehyung hesitated, his gaze dropping to their hands, his mind racing. After a moment, he looked up at Seojoon, still uncertain, but the sincerity in his eyes

made Taehyung want to believe him. "Alright, Hyung. I trust you. But… just be careful with that alpha." Seojoon's jaw tightened, his expression hardening for a second before he relaxed. "That day threw me off, Taehyung. But I'll be ready if something like that happens again.

And if that alpha tries anything—he won't get away with it." Taehyung blinked, surprised by Seojoon's sudden attitude shift. "Hyung… I just don't want things to escalate. Please, don't put yourself in danger." Seojoon's expression softened, and he squeezed Taehyung's hand

reassuringly. "I won't, Taehyung. I promise. My focus is on making things right for both of us. You don't need to worry about anything but yourself." Taehyung managed a small, grateful smile, his heart feeling a little lighter. "Alright. Just… don't let this stress you."

Seojoon smiled back and was about to respond when his phone buzzed on the table. He glanced at the screen, frowning slightly. "It's my client," he said apologetically, picking up the phone. "Sorry, Taehyung. I have to take this."

Taehyung nodded, offering him an understanding smile. "Go ahead, Hyung. It's fine." Seojoon answered the call, keeping it short. When he hung up, he slipped the phone into his pocket and stood up. "Sorry, Taehyung, I've got to head out. Work's calling, and I can't push it off."

"It's okay, Hyung," Taehyung replied gently. Seojoon motioned to the waiter, pulling out his wallet. "Can I get the bill, please?" he asked politely. The waiter nodded and returned a moment later with the check. Seojoon handed over his card and gave Taehyung a quick smile.