↳⚓ Hongbin's Shack

@⚓ Hongbin This change of character a howling wolf reacting to the full moon. The male grinned as he stretched his arm out to keep the watch away, leaning back, to gain the weight of the other over him. The male who growled hungrily for the youngers skin, as he placed kisses over his neck, that tickled so sweetly, so wet, making the younger wiggle his body. “ Ngggh you and your dirty tricks ! No one tricks a thief in his own games “ he spoke with a smirk, not letting the male wait, as he leant his face towards the other, directing his own lips closer to the others, brathing heavily as he started to blow at the males face, as he tighten his grip around the clock, swaying it over the others fingertips to give an illusion of dominance to the others advantage. Some roleplaying wasn´t really hamin`s thing, but he did it for the art of seduction, for the lessons of Principe’s Dara taught him. “Hey, Hongbin, Do I look that tasty to you? As you have been thinking dirty about me the whole day? How to seduce me to ? How to rip off my clothes?” he raised an eyebrow, his smile grew. “ Of course I knew what you were thinking, you can´t hide it from me… I can read your face.. I can read a tricksters tricks.. being so polite as you are, only for those reasons…. Consider showing the real you? And I show the façade of me that you never had seen?”

@☼ Hamin Curious, huh? He wanted to tell him that curiosity was a dangerous thing and just laugh it off, but he couldn't bring himself to. He watched the other stare at his lips, and he couldn't help but give the smallest of smirks. Hongbin wished so desperately that the other wasn't so scared of kissing and things like that. If he wasn't he could be touching the other, kissing him until his lips were swollen. Surprised by the sudden question, Hongbins eyes went dark. He had some experience with it, and it was enjoyable most of the time. "Yes, why?" He asked, wondering where this was leading. Hongbins head was spinning when the other came closer, a mix of confusion in him but he brushed it off. Now was not the time to be confused. It was the time to enjoy the fact that the other seemed to be considering having with him. He jolted when he blew in his ear, Hongbin surprised by the sudden change in character. Growling playfully, he tried to snatch the watch back. Moving closer he began kissing his neck and tried to reach behind him to grab it. His lips moved up to Hamins own, trying to distract him as he got a good hold on the watch.

@⚓ Hongbin He felt the other moving his body back to the mattress , away the warm body. Well listening to the fact that his lips was described as soft? Sweet? How can lips taste sweet ? Is it as sweet as candy?icecream, soft as in the same softness of a pillow? It was strange . He didn't really see the description accurate, but what did he know , he just panicked the moment he meet lips with his own. His chin was tilted up, giving him small shivers down from the back of his neck , hongbin seem to be hinting this conversation to something yet more serious . At least his eyes seemed serious. " I -I don't know to be honest... I'm curious I guess? " he answered in a stutter . Getting the feeling of embarrassment curling up into his cheeks , eyes glanced down, staring at the others lips. They seemed quite plump. Hamin didn't really get it why and how lips could be used to something more than talking, and eating . It just didn't make sense why people kiss? Like sharing spit with each other . Strange . It was one of many questions he never really could answer . " yet Hamin was scared yet curious , he hoped one day to get over the traumatic scene, but it might scarred him for life . Surprising that he still could be out among other people. Perhaps it was because, when he was stealing and tricking people, he was confident , sly, and we'll all was just a facade , he could play as someone else and forget about himself for a moment . He knew stealing was bad yet necessary , however , because of stealing he can forget himself for a few hours , and enjoy himself . Being a thief made him forget being himself . As Dara always says : always keep an eye on the target , do whatever it takes to get what you want, even if you don't like it . Thinking of that made him chuckle for a moment . She was an excellent thief . Far more experienced and the best in its field . She was badass! And she made him feel the same . After all , who else can joke about around and playing each other a trick or two. Stealing with Dara made him feel free . Hamin curled up a smile , realising that he missed his noona . " eeeh... Hongbin have you done role playing before ?" He asked all of sudden . "unexpectedly , trying to switch the tables of himself . Ruffling his hair , moving his fringe to the side and placed a hand onto hongbins muscular arm. Noticing a clock on the table over hongbin , he left a small smirk. This might boost his confidence a little , because now he realised , he leant over the male nuzzling his head into the others and hugged him tightly " I really want to roleplay hyung" he said cutely and turned his face to blow Into the ans ear , and snatched the clock, pulling back and sat up and grinned. Holding up the clock and swayed it playfully " I really wanna play! " he said with huge puppy eyes , and pulled his hair back with his hand, hiding the clock behind his back with a sly grin . He realised , that nothing else could make him comfortable around others , only his facade as thief could, Dara thought him that.

@☼ Hamin For a second it took him a moment to process the fact that this adorable boy was a murderer. A murderer. That could possibly have someone after him who wanted to avenge the life he had taken. Huh. "I don't think they'll hurt you. You had a good reason to kill him, and you're pretty adorable. Just give them puppy eyes and they'll be cooing over you in seconds." He said, trying to make light of the sudden serious situation. Raffling his hair even more, he thought about what he asked him to do. How could he describe his lips? "Soft..sweet. They're arousing I guess, I've never really thought of lips in general. I know that it's nice to kiss someone and it's fun, but that's really it." He chuckled, but it was soon dying off. Something tugged at the back of his mind, telling him that he was acting strange. Well, stranger. It was almost as if he was flirting with him. The others conversation choice were making him nervous. Actually, not nervous. Curious, he supposed? About why he was suddenly interested in such a thing. "Not so good, to be honest. I think I was only thirteen at the time? Maybe fourteen. Ah, I can't remember." Hongbin was really trying to think about this, when he laughed at the others sudden comment. He was so cute. Nodding, he kept petting his hair gently. "Hamin..can I ask you a question?" He said, moving his body slightly. He moved Hamins back onto the mattress, turning onto his side and facing him. Gently, he tilted his chin up slightly. "Why are you asking me all these questions?"

@❊ Hongbin The boy nuzzled more with his head, feeling his nerves calm down as the fingertips of the other played with his hair . He liked it when someone touches his hair . It felt nice , he felt safe . " he is dead now though . I killed him . That's why I'm afraid now , that someone wanna avenge him to get me. Years has passed though so I don't know honestly. Maybe they have forgotten about it by now? The thoughts about it keeps hunting me. " he said lowly , glancing up at the male and smiled . " try to described lips then. I mean you must be an expert of that after all . " he giggled , not feeling tired really , or a little yet something kept him up . Moving closer as the other moved his hand over him, keeping himself close to the male. Hamin was surprised over how warm the male was , and how... Well tamed he was compared to the earlier happening. " hey , how was your first time ...? You know ehm ..... " he stuttered and glanced down, staring at the males chest , somehow his eyes felt captivated by the others . Why? He didn't know . It was strange . " your sticks out ?" He asked , not really getting why he said that . Hamin wasn't used to all this affectionate touching and cuddling at all , however , he liked being able to hug someone . He was too shy asking Dara for one , since she was a woman, with s . He didn't wanna risk hurting them . " Hongbin . Just wonder , can you keep touching my hair , it's comfortable "

@☼ Hamin Hongbin thought the shivers were a good thing, one hand going to his hip as he kissed him. Mistaking his attempted mumbles as him kissing back, he smiled into the kiss. But when he was pushed away, he couldn't help but stumble a bit. Then he quickly regained his balance, his lips. He wanted to kiss the other more. While yes, he felt bad for him and didn't want to do anything if it scared him. Though, he couldn't deny that he knew how this would play out if the other wasn't so scared. He would pick him up and set him on the counter, perhaps he'd even him against the mirror. The thought made him hungrier, but he knew that he shouldn't. That he couldn't. He didn't want to traumatize him any further. Especially since he had gone through so much already. It would probably only make his fear of this worse if he tried to continue, and he couldn't have that on his conscience. "Okay," He says softly. "We can go to sleep. Next time, if I wish to kiss you I'll ask. Okay? And I'll go slow." He let the other pull him towards the bed, climbing in and lifting the cover so he could climb in easily as well. He expected the other to turn his back to him, to move to the farthest edge of the bed to get away from him. Yet he did no such thing. Instead, Hongbin was very surprised when the other decided to cuddle up to him. At first, he didn't know what to do. Should he touch him? He didn't know. Ever so gently he began petting his hair, and was reminded of a kitten when he looked down at him. His hand relaxed, and soon he was just smoothing out his hair and petting him with a bit more confidence. "That's good. I would be worried if I was cold. I make for a good pillow, hm?" He said, a small smile on his lips since the other had decided to rest his head on his chest. But the calm and peaceful atmosphere was disturbed by Hamins story, and Hongbin couldn't help but look down at him with the utmost amount of concern. How could the other still stand to be around people after that? How could he leave his home? He'd become a full on hermit if that sort of thing had happened to him. He'd probably never dare to step out into the world again. "No, it's okay. You can talk about it if you want to. I can't believe someone would do that to you. I would- I'd never- Damn." In the end that was all he could say. 'Damn' seemed like a very appropriate word in a time like this. Hongbin suddenly felt guilt pool into his stomach. How could he lie to the other like this? He'd simply used that as a cover. The only thing he truly wanted to do was kiss the other. He almost felt like telling him that he had ual thought about him, but knew that now wasn't the time. He didn't want to ruin the little moment they seemed to be having. Affectionately, he ruffles his hair. Silently, he sat up and kissed the tears away from his eyes. "Thank you, and it was my pleasure. But why don't you go to sleep." He said, moving onto his side and facing him. He wrapped his arms around him, keeping his head buried in his chest. Without thinking, he said, "Your lips tasted sweet, but I don't know what to describe the taste as."

@❊ Hongbin The boy listened , hearing the words about the similarities about what different ualities can do , oh and the argument for why he kissed him , not really convinced really even though it was slightly flattering , honestly finding it kind of sweet to say , but it doesn't mean he can hair randomly kiss him like he please . Hongbin probably had a thing for ruining personal space . The male immediately closed his eyes the moment he felt Hongbin take his arm . It was gentle and warm , but he felt the bright light appear , the sense of warm sun hit his face , yet he remained quiet, getting nervous unintentionally about all this talk. He just wanted to sleep , however the male seemed to wanting something else . Which kinda was a little scary. " I- I just ....." He opened his eyes ,looking up at the male as he reacted to the caress, deeply into the eyes of the other, the eyes had a warm sense to it , a friendliness that kinda calmed him . the moment the male said he was going to kiss him though came by a shock , and he couldn't even finish his sentence because the male already whether hamin agreed or not already pressed his lips against his . Making the male jump a little, earning shivers in his body . Eyes widened, he tried to say something but everything came in a mumbled and he didn't know where to even put his hands . It made him all shaky and bubbly and all those sensual reactions only reminded him of traumatically events . Just shut his eyes close and with all his might he tried to push the male away . " l-lets just go to sleep ... This just scares me . Like it's not that you are a bad kisser or anything , it just reminds me of some events that kinda are things I wanna forget and I never can calm down really I'm sorry . Oh and ...thanks for trying to help me . I ..." He looked down... " I'm scared ... Hongbin ... If you wanna kiss me that badly ... At least ask first , or I dunno go a little slower about it . I dunno just lets go to bed " he said a little flustered as he said it awkwardly before grabbing the other by the wrist and pushed him into the thing that seemed to be a bed and crawled up himself . Deciding to snuggle up upon him like a kitten and just lean into the males chest . Avoiding the males looks but tried to breathe calmly " something like this . Calm .... And slow , and ehm .... Warm . You're warm ... Which is good ehm ... " hamin didn't know really the intention about this ? Maybe the previous attempt of personal space thingy scared him the hell out so therefore , since he doesn't have his rabbit , he decided to borrow Hongbin to be his rabbit for the night " thanks for letting me stay over and try to help me . I just ... I dunno the event when I was younger still traumatise me ... You see he also kissed me , and held my arm and such , and the. He pulled out a knife . .... All I remember was my own screaming , and the warmth of the blood mixed with the icy cold blade , and after that e sort of ... I only recall that I was left there bleeding with scars . And the man smiled and said sweet things to me, like he enjoyed seeing me in pain and covered in my own blood . And the. He did himself . While forcing a servant to hit me . Wanting my to scream . So after he finished he kissed me saying that i did well , and I'm his cute little toy or something .... You probably don't wanna hear all about it . But I'm thankful that you try to help me . " he nuzzles his face against the chest and looked up at his company with tears seeming to fall down " thanks for taking care of me , and ehm you're a good kisser . They tasted peach "

@☼ Hamin He nodded, chuckling at the comment about his bunny plush. He wouldn't make fun of him for it just yet. Hongbin couldn't help but be amused when the other started panicking. "Men can kiss each other. They can also have and do everything a woman and a man can. I kissed you because you're cute, and you have pretty lips. If you don't know your uality, I can help with that." Touching the others arm gently, he pulled the cloth from his face. His blush was adorable, and Hongbin just wanted to eat him right up. The embarrassed ones were always the most fun in bed, because all they did was blush and try to stay quiet. Caressing his cheek, he tilted his head up so he'd have to look at him. "I'm going to kiss you. It may get a little heated, but don't worry. This is just to help you find out what your uality is, alright?" He said, and before he could accept or deny he leaned forward and captured the others lips with his own.

@❊ Hongbin The male chuckled . He never tried a bed so why would he become attached to it ?" I think I'll be fine , maybe if you visit the desert I can offer a spot in my tent ? And you can borrow my bunny plush if ehm you ever need something that reminds of home ?" He tried to reply nicely not really knowing what he said there , and why the heck did he mention his plush ? The boy felt the grip of the older dragging him along to the bathroom noticing a weird shaped item, and the cloth given to his hand , not quite sure what it was " ehm ... What is this slap you talk ab-" though when he was supposed to finish his sentence it was cut off by a pair of lips touching his , just in a blink of seconds , making the other turn red instantly . And of course panic ." Aaaaaaah !!!!! Why did you do that !!!! It's embarrassing and and and aren't men and men supposed to not do that kinda stuff ?? And why did you even kiss me at all ? And eh I dunno even my own so called uality ! Stop confusing me!'l he said loudly and shamefully yet swiftly he soaked the cloth and smashed it over hair dave , hiding his embarrassed face and stayed silent .

@☼ Hamin He was shocked into place when the other said that, blinking back at him and not knowing what to say. Personally the couch wasn't that comfortable to him, so he thought that he'd better sleep with him. 'I can control myself.' Is what he promised himself as he decided. "You'll sleep with me then. But don't get too attached to my bed, I can't promise you a spot there every time you drop by the kingdom." He teased, before his smile completely fell off his lips. He saw the other undressing, and he forced himself to look away. Why was the other doing this in front of him? And why only the shirt? Was he trying to ? His thoughts jumbled together as he tried to clear them and not focus on it. Still, it surprised him and Hongbin wasn't surprised often. But he knew better than to ask where he'd gotten those scars from, it could only bring back bad memories. "Of course. Follow me." He said, his voice a little faint. He took the others hand, smiling at him as he lead him through his bedroom and into the bathroom. Taking a cloth, he gave it to the other. "You can use this to help, but be careful with the soap. Don't get it in your eyes, okay?" He said, before he brushed the back of his hand against the others chin, leaning in to give him a small kiss.

@❊ Hongbin The boy thought for a moment , to be honest he had never been sleeping in an actual bed before and the couch looked quite comfy compared to the bed he actually found pretty unique and nice itself . It would be hard to pick really as he couldn't really compare his so called ' bed ' that was literally made of pillows and blankets in all different colours , or of course to daras tent decor choice as he simply moved in to hers tent back when he was young . So he simply couldn't choose " well I simply don't mind either as I guess their both more. Comfortable than my bed at home, so I just say that you can choose whatever you like " he said simply and without minding the others presence so he stripped off his hooded cape and unwrapped his piece of fabric, revealing once again his scarred Body, only staying in his roomy pants for the night . " is there any chance for me to wash my face off before I head to sleep . It's kinda a nightly routine you see . And well ..." To be honest he had other nightly routines that helped him not getting nightmares that has been a part of helping him mentally ever since he came to the desert , like cuddling the plushie that he had gotten from his parents years ago before they died , wash his face , and things like , staring at cute kitten paintings he had stolen throughout his life .

@☼ Hamin Hongbin watched him intently as he ate, expecting the response he got. Of course, the other just needed to eat slowly. That was the only problem here. He didn't have any inability to eat it, or at least it didn't seem like it. He smiled back when he smiled. "Good, right?" He said, feeding him scoop after scoop. It was nice, he hardly got to take care of anyone besides himself. The other seemed like a good fit since he had a childlike cuteness to him. Or at least that's what he thought. Hongbin had to keep himself in check once the other yawned, thinking it was probably the cutest thing he had seen in a long time. He chuckled when the other bowed, standing up as well. "It was my pleasure. You can sleep on the couch, but it's not really that comfortable. If you'd rather sleep in my bed that'd be fine as well." He said, giving him a genuine smile.

@❊ Hongbin " it hurts a little . B- but I'm fine. " he stuttered and felt even more redness appearing in his cheeks due to the male being so kind even giving a spa massage treatment to his thumb . Maybe the only luxury that thumb ever gotten in its life! The boy pouted a little due to the comment of cuteness . What was the deal about him being cute ? Many people said that , and it only gives him chills down his spine , reminding him too much of days he wanted to forget . Hamins character was supposed to act sly , fierce , dangerous and badass ! Like Dara noona , but appears to him that it doesn't work always , especially when hongbin touches the buttons of his insecure and vulnerable nerves . Quite touchy on topics hamin feel innocent about . Well the so called badass, seducing part was mostly a facade he put on while working . Which especially worked on ladies . But normal hamin was honestly a scared child , a young boy maybe scarred for life and he was quite an introvert as well , not wanting anyone to touch him at all. He still remember how he and Dara was completely awkward for days , like hamin wouldn't even move a muscle from his side of the tent. Well , it was quite surprising how hongbin managed to even make hamin a slight comfortable around him , maybe because of his generosity and kindness . Despite the y side . The boy blinked his eyes a little and opened his mouth slowly , biting the spoon and are the content slowly , feeling it's sugary sweet flavours melt in his tongue, before swallowing it slowly . He smiled after swallowing it down. Enjoying the ice cream . He accepted another scoop after a short while and he kept being fed by the male and at time a yawn crawled up out of his mouth , as he felt tired . " thanks for feeding me well. It was good . " he said softly before standing up and bowing slightly down with his head to him and then looked around , wondering where to sleep ." Hum where shall I sleep?"

@☼ Dara Hongbin regretted asking her once he heard her wince, but luckily she was now only using her one hand. He didn't mind the fact that his shirt hadn't been buttoned in the best way or that some buttons were in the wrong places. He just didn't want everyone to be staring at his chest when really they should be focusing on Daras hand.

It was almost a pity that her body was being covered up as well, but he couldn't chance anyone trying to get a glance where they shouldn't. His possessiveness over her had not subsided just yet, and he didn't think it ever would.

Hopefully, she wouldn't mind.

Hongbin nodded, chuckling and kissing her cheek. "True. But it's still nice to hear from someone as beautiful as you." He said, smiling down at her. The tinge still stayed on his cheeks, but it wasn't nearly as red as before. However, his heart kept beating as fast as ever when it was around her.

Ah, the things she did to him.

He made her laugh, cry, and want to be better. These were things that no other person had managed to achieve. He wondered how she would react if he were to tell her that.

Speaking of laughing, her comment succeeded to make him do so. In response he adjusted his grip, smiling a bit as he walked around a bend.

Only a minute or two and they would be at the doctors. Shops were already starting to pop up, and instead of walking on a empty pathway, Hongbin was walking on a busy street now.

People that passed them gave them weird looks, obviously wondering why they were so underdressed and why he was carrying her, until they were right in front of the hospital and walking inside.

@❊ Hongbin The way Hongbin carried her was surprisingly relaxing. At first, she'd protested for the sake of her pride. Now, the rhythm of his footsteps and his strong arms around her were comforting, like she was a baby being rocked to sleep.

Sleep. That sounded so tempting. It would be so easy to rest her head against his shoulder and close her eyes.

It was only Hongbin's request to button up his shirt that pulled her away. Sandara evidently trusted Hongbin enough to slide her arm from around his neck and let him carry her without any aid. Recklessly, she reached forward with both her hands and started to button up his shirt.

Quickly, Sandara realised that wasn't such a great idea. A sharp pain went through her injured hand and she winced, pulling it back to her hand. She supposed she'd have to do this one handed.

While her left hand throbbed, Sandara used her right to fiddle with his buttons. It was frustrating how long it took and Sandara was tempted at one point to use her teeth. But, after a long struggle, she successfully managed to complete the whole shirt, though a few buttons were in the wrong places and made the shirt look straight. But Sandara couldn't be bothered to care about that right then.

It turned out doing her own shirt was a lot easier, what with the practice she'd had with his. Though what good it did, she didn't know. It didn't really make her any less revealing. She was, after all, missing any bottoms aside from her underwear.

Sandara had already discovered her love of watching Hongbin blush. It made her feel equal to him, that she had an effect on him as much as he had on her. "I don't think I need to use a pick up line on you," Sandara chuckled quietly. "Im pretty sure I've already got you." It was truth just as it was a joke. Hongbin had, after all, confessed his love for her. That wasn't something a person would say if they were simply flirted with by a stranger. Unless they were incredibly drunk or joking around.

Sandara's smile grew as the thought came to her. "Plus," she added, humour in her tone. "It looks like you're the one doing the picking up." Glancing down at his arms carrying her, she smirked. He literally had picked her up - in more ways than one.

Slowly, her eyes drifted to her surroundings, watching them change as they got further and further away from his shack. The trees were pretty much nonexistent now. How far had they come?

Sandara only hoped they'd get to the doctor soon. Her hand was really beginning to ache.

@☼ Dara Hongbin gave her a look, simply scoffing in reply. "It doesn't look fine." He commented, knowing that even if she wouldn't say it he was indeed right.

The male didn't even care if they were well clothed, while yes it could be a bit embarrassing her hurt hand was far more important than a few layers of clothing. Still, "Can you button up my shirt and yours?" He asked, hoping that she could manage to do this with her hurt hand. He could already feel the stares that would be aimed at them when they entered town.

His facial expression became a mix of confusion and flattery when she said that, Hongbin purposely not looking down at her to respond. Why could she make him shy with just a few simple words?

Or the simple action of resting her pretty head on his shoulder?

He was too in love with her for his own good. It was sad that he'd only realised that now. The male didn't want to think about it but things would have been so much different if he had just realized how deep he would go with Dara, and how much he would end up caring for her.

He nodded in response, glad that it wasn't causing her constant pain. "Then do your best not to move it. Okay?" He asked, his voice stern but also concerned. It was good to hear that she was following his orders, because staying calm in a situation like this was more than a little important.

His face blushed bright red at that comment, and Hongbin couldn't help but laugh along. "Was that a pick up line?" He asked, knowing the topic all too well. He could pick anyone up if he wanted. "It's a bit cheesy but I like it. You flatter me, which is a very difficult thing to do." He responded.

@❊ Hongbin "You worry too much," Sandara retorted, waving her bandaged hand in front of him. "See, it's fine! Nothing to worry about." She flexed her fingers to make a point but the only point it proved that he was right. She yelped at the pain, curling her hand back towards her chest. Yet she had too much pride to admit to Hongbin that she was wrong.

The fresh air burst across her skin when he swung open the door. It caught her off guard, her eyes opening wider, feeling all that more awake. She shivered in the cold and curled up closer to Hongbin's warm body. But neither of them were particularly well clothed.

"You're so demanding," Sandara chuckled, remembering she had said the exact same thing at the beginning of their first date. That was only yesterday - she couldn't believe it. It was kind of bittersweet, how she had known so little about him then and now she knew so much.

Sandara found herself gazing at Hongbin, looking at his profile, at the worry lines that creased his brow. Even those were etched on with perfection. "Hongbin?" She said on a whim, running ahead of her thoughts. "You're really handsome."

It was at moments like these that proved Sandara could be far too honest for her own good. She chuckled at herself and rested her head against his shoulder, feeling the beat of his movements as he strode in the direction of the town.

Her eyes trailed the scattered trees on either side of them, concluding that they were rather beautiful. They looked much prettier here, with the beach as a backdrop, then in the other Kingdom.

She supposed that was the same with Hongbin. He wouldn't fit right anywhere else but here. He was a part of the scenery. He had grown out of the ground.

"Not if I don't move it," she answered quietly, far too distracted to worry to much about her hand. But she obeyed him, breathing slowly, in and out, in and out.

"It's kind of hard," she said, amusement but honesty in her voice. "To keep my heart rate calm when you're here." In a second, she had burst out laughing at how cheesy that line was. She really was weak for him.

@☼ Dara It didn't matter how many times she would say it, he still wouldn't believe her. He was going to carry her whether she wanted to or not, her pride be damned.

"Dara, you have a cut across your hand and you've probably already lost a pint of blood. And it's at least a mile trek just to get back to the city, let alone get to the nearest doctor." He said, his voice complete exasperated. It wasn't that he didn't think she could do this, but he was worried. He had the right to be, didn't he?

The first rule at his job was to tell someone as soon as you got injured, and then get yourself some proper care as soon as possible. Something small could turn lethal if it wasn't cared for properly, he'd learned that lesson far too many times. Just the smallest scratch from the reefs and that person could end up never being allowed in the water ever again by his superior.

When he heard how weak her voice was his worry only increased, and he was leaving his house and down the stairs in what felt like seconds.

"Don't fall asleep." He warned, starting his walk back towards the city. He didn't even have to watch where he was going, his footsteps fast and sturdy. Hongbin felt like his heart was going to explode with how worried he was. "Damn. I should have made you drink some water with that alcohol in your system." He said bitterly, scolding himself.

Hongbin scoffed at that. Even during a time like this she was worrying about him. "I'm fine. Just focus on breathing and keeping your heartbeat calm. Does it still hurt?" He asked, looking down at her face.

@❊ Hongbin "I'm okay," Sandara protested but Hongbin proceeded to lift her up into his arms and carry her, carefully, all the way to the door. It reminded her far too much of coming to this shack, where Hongbin had carried her the same way. "Honestly, you don't have to carry me."

She felt a little under minded, weak in his arms. She didn't want to be weak. She wanted to stand on her own two feet, live her life her own way, fight her own battles. She wasn't used to relying on people.

But Sandara knew Hongbin wouldn't listen to her. Once he had decided to carry her, there was no stopping him. So, instead, she slung her arm around his neck and made sure he had a strong enough grip of him so she wouldn't fall out of his hold.

"Seriously, Hongbin," she muttered, smiling amused at his face. "It's not that bad." Her gaze flickered to her bandaged palm, seeing the blood soaked patches. "I've had worse," she insisted, though her voice had grown weaker as she became a little drowsy. Hiding her face in Hongbin's neck, she closed her eyes. "You smell like saltwater," she murmured against his skin.

Maybe the alcohol had finally begun to sink in. It surely couldn't be the wound. It was barely a scratch in Sandara's terms.

Maybe it was just the exhaustion of the day, all the events piling on top of each other.

Sandara pulled her face back from his neck and her eyes came in contact with the love bite she had given him earlier. She had almost forgotten it was there. It had faded slightly but it still stood out against his rich skin. Slowly, she traced a pattern around it with her finger. "Seriously, you should cover this up with something. The Doctor might think we've been up to something."

@☼ Dara ((Its okay, and it's not y at all!))

He couldn't help but smile at that. Hongbin was also happy he hadn't ended up with that man. He didn't want to become a house wife like that person's wife was. His job, and Dara, was his world. Letting either of them go would break his heart.

"Me too." He murmured back.

He smiled at the kiss, and raised his head when she spoke. Being the cause of her broken heart would kill him, but he couldn't necessarily say that without sounding cheesy. "I won't." He murmured, promising to take care of it well with only two words. Loving her was like breathing air, it was almost as if he was built to do it. Perhaps they truly were meant to be.

The atmosphere changed when she denied his request, but when she winced Hongbin knew that he would have his way. "Do you want to go now? It's probably best. Plus if we go later they might close for the day." Hongbin was already standing, picking her up in his arms and carrying her bridal style. "I don't want you to walk. You might get lightheaded and end up hurting yourself all over again." He said, trying not to think about how light she was.

Hongbin carried her to the door, slipping his sandals on. "Tell me if you feel lightheaded, okay?"

@❊ Hongbin It was surprisingly easy to sink into his arms. He had slipped her into his lap and had wrapped his arms around her, bringing her into a hug. As if it was the most natural thing in the world, she wrapped her arms around him too and buried her face in his neck.

It was nice, just silence. It wasn't awkward at all. Instead, it felt so easy to do as if she had been design to fit perfectly in Hongbin's arms.

She watched the way he gently bandaged her hand and brought it towards his lips. They were incredibly soft as they were pressed against her ring finger. She couldn't help but imagine it being a promise.

Sandara leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss against his cheek, a thank you.

She gladly welcomed his head on her shoulder and rested hers against his, the fingers of her uninjured hand playing with his. "I'm glad you didn't," Sandara murmured into his hair. She didn't want to imagine him with anyone else but her.

She listened carefully to his words, trying to accept them. Hongbin seemed to get a lot of attention from men, perhaps even more than her. Was Hongbin even more attractive to a man than he was to a woman. Sandara entwined her fingers with his, not letting go. She was lucky to have him, she noticed that now. There were plenty of people who wished they had him.

Sandara watched his eyes as he confessed anew to her. Her heart fluttered to hear those words from his lips again. No matter how many times he said it, she still loved it. Gently, she leaned over and pressed a soft kiss against his lips. "As long as you don't break mine." It was a pleading for him to take care of her heart.

The moment was broken when he was insistent that she needed to go to the doctor. "No, I'm okay-" she began but winced when she clenched her injured hand. She nodded, reluctantly agreeing that he better take her to see a doctor.

{{sorry for the y reply. I'm in a rush}}

@☼ Dara Hongbin could see right through her false reassurance. He wanted to hold her and shake her at the same time. He wanted her to admit that she was in pain, that something was wrong. That he wasn't just seeing things.

But he couldn't. So he just nodded back, worry still filling his every action.

Hence how he easily caught her crying. In seconds he was pulling her into his lap, holding her close and slowly rocking them back and forth to soothe her. All his worries about his own life went away, and instead his worry over her replaced it.

At first, Hongbin wasn't going to answer her question. It didn't seem like it needed an answer. And if he did, he was sure that she wouldn't like his answer. "Every now and then. But not really. Usually they come when I'm not in debt to them, and I get to raise my prices. But since I already took his money I'm in no position to do that." Her question showed him that she was trying, as he was for her.

The thought of her dancing for other men made him jealous, but it was nothing compared to what he did.

He smiled bitterly, holding her even closer than before. He rubbed her side, before picking up her injured hand by her wrist. Gently he placed the gauze over her wound, before slowly beginning to bandage it. Once he was done he used the safety clip to keep it from unraveling. Bringing her hand up to his lips, he kissed one of her precious fingers. Her ring finger to be exact.

He sighed, resting his head on her shoulder as he contemplated his answer.

"No. Not usually. The older ones act pretty respectful, and my younger clients are always trying to woo me. They think that they can make me fall for them. I'm sure that if you hadn't come along and stole my heart I would have ended up with one of them. Maybe that guys nephew." He said, playing gently with her uninjured hand as he looked down.

It was a difficult life, but it had some perks. "One of my old clients, he got married, was always trying to make me fall for him. He would bring expensive drinks and flowers, would be really gentle with me, always try to make it enjoyable for me as well, and even tried to kiss me a few times. He was handsome too, had a stable job. A nice person. Was mostly my type. I had just begun to consider him when he told me he was getting married and that he wasn't going to see me anymore. I was so bitter for the next few days, I guess that was the closest thing I ever got to heartbreak then." He looked up at her face, admiring her features.

He decided that perhaps another and proper confession was in order. "I love you Dara. You have my heart, it's yours to keep. Please try not to break it."

The male looked down at her hand, the injured one, and let out a small sigh. He needed to take her to a doctor, no matter how much she told him she was okay.

"I need to take you to a doctor. I can't let you take a two day trip with an injury like this."

@❊ Hongbin Honestly, it felt kind of numb. She stared at her hand, watching the blood ooze from the cut, but she felt no pain. It was like she was looking at someone else's hand, like it really didn't belong to her.

She guessed that's how she felt about a lot of things recently.

Hongbin was beside her. She hadn't even noticed him appear. She stared at him through new eyes, really studying him, unsure of what to make of him.

Then he was ripping fabric from his sleeve and grabbing her arm, his fingers sharp and cold against her skin. She felt like he was a burst of reality in her dreamy haze.

He was pulling her up and hurrying her towards the sink, yanking on the tap and shoving her hand under. She winced as the water came in contact with the wound. She hissed through her teeth, finally feeling the pain. "Ow," she whimpered as he tied a nearby rag around her palm.

No. Sandara was not going to be a wimp in front of him. She'd grit her teeth and bear the pain. Taking his instruction, she curled her hand into a fist to keep pressure on the wound, wincing at the sharp pain.

Despite her own independence, Sandara still took Hongbin's hand as he lead her through the broken shards of pottery and sat her down on the couch.

He was gone only a few minutes but, to Sandara, it felt a lot longer than that. When he returned, she almost felt like laughing at his concerned questions. She loved the way he looked at her, worry and concern in his eyes. But she didn't want him getting anxious. Not on top of what he was already being put through.

"I'm alright," she smiled, resting her uninsured hand over his own. "I'm alright." She kept nodding and repeating it but it became more than just about the wound. It was about everything. She was trying to convince herself she was alright with this, with them, with his lifestyle, with hers.

A tear hovered on her bottom lashes but she quickly flicked it away, pretending she was only crying because of the pain. She watched him take the rag from around her palm, untying in with steady fingers, and she wondered if these were the fingers of the man she was really meant to be with.

She sighed, defeated. Okay, so she was in love. She couldn't beat that battle.

But she refused to lose herself in it. Or lose him.

"Does this always happen?" She asked quietly, finally building up the courage to speak her thoughts. She was trying to give him a sign of acceptance - that she would accept his job. It didn't mean that she was comfortable with that but if she wanted to keep him, she'd have to work harder than she'd already been. "All your clients? Do they always act so..." She couldn't say the word. If she did, it would sound like she was being petty. But she wanted to at least try to comfort Hongbin.

Even if that meant he had to talk about something that she couldn't even stand to imagine.

@☼ Dara Hongbin knew he shouldn't have said anything. That she would try to stop him if he did. He shouldn't have said anything, he should have just cried and kept all his worries locked inside his mind. There was no way for them to escape, their lives were too different for both of them to be happy if they did.

The male could see right through her smile, and his heart reached out to her. Still, he nodded and agreed. Anything to take his mind off what was to come. He frowned when she pulled away, wishing to still be held in her embrace. "You don't have to.." He said when she started picking up plates, the male standing to help her.

His mind finally snapped out of its haze when he heard the crashing and breaking of plates. In seconds he was rushing into the kitchen and by her side. "Dara don't-" But it was too late. She'd already cut herself and she was already bleeding. Grabbing her by the arm he quickly ripped off part of his sleeve, tying it at her upper arm to stop the circulation.

He maneuvered her towards the sink, and stuck her hand under some warm water before snatching a clean rag from the counter. Pulling her hand out from under the water, he tied the rag tightly around her palm. "Apply pressure while I go get some proper bandages." He paused, looking around at all the broken glass. He couldn't have her wait here. No, it was too dangerous.

"Here, follow me and watch your step." Slowly he guided her to the couch and successfully managed to get out of there without anymore injuries. Sitting her down, he dashed off to get his first aid kit. Once he had come back, he sat down next to her. "Are you okay? Do you feel lightheaded? Do you need any water?" He asked, opening the kit and pulling out some bandages, gauze, and safety clips.

Carefully, he removed the blood soaked rag and listened to see if Dara was in pain.

@❊ Hongbin Hongbin shook in her arms. He was really crying and her heart tugged for him. She felt guilty for making all this about her, about how she felt. Outside, Hongbin pretending to be okay. But in these deep moments when he was alone and with her, he wasn't.

Burying her nose in his hair, she tried to comfort him as best as she could. She had been a child. This was his life, this was how he earned money. She couldn't say she was any better than him.

And he had accepted her as she was. Why hadn't she done the same?

"What can I do?" She asked, pulling his head away from her chest just far enough so she could look into his tear-filled eyes. Cupping his face with both of her palms, she brushed away stray tears that rolled from his cheeks. "Can I do anything?"

Hongbin looked so helpless in that moment. She felt like she just wanted to bundle him up in her arms and never let go.

"You can't go," her voice cracked. "Not if you're going to be hurt. I won't let you go."

She wanted to figure out a way to escape all this. The two of them could run away, find someplace secluded just for them. They'd never have to care about these lives they lived ever again.

But it was useless. There was no real escape. He could come with her to the desert but he'd never survive. The climate was too hot and sticky for the sea-carved Hongbin.

She smiled sadly, knowing that Hongbin would never let her keep him away from his clients. He was helpless. And she was helpless to help him.

"Let's forget about it, okay?" She tried to fake a positive smile. "I'll distract you." She stood up and looked around like she was looking for something to use as a distraction. "I could dance for you?" She suggested though she seemed panicked. "I'll have to clear this up first," she said as she walked towards the table, using it as a distraction to forget what had just happened. She picked up the plates, smiling as if she were completely calm. But, inside, she was a mess.

Her hands shook as she took the plates towards the kitchen. But before she could put them down, her hands slipped and the plates came crashing down on the floor. "Sorry! Sorry!" She croaked, frantic as she knelt on the ground, reaching out to pickup the broken pieces of porcelain.

Sandara winced and swore as a sharp piece of the pottery sliced her hand. She held her palm in pain, watching the blood ooze out of the wound.

@☼ Dara Hongbin didn't even hear her words, couldn't hear the words that would have definitely broke his heart if he had heard him.

There was a good reason why he didn't like switch offs, and while he was glad that he didn't have to give the money back he was terrified at the thought of someone he didn't choose to be with him in bed. His brain racked over his face, trying to remember who he was. His nephew. A fisherman. Works at the dock.

It could be any of those men.

Tears were streaming down his face without him even realizing as he hugged Daras waist. He buried his face in her chest, just wanting to ignore the world and be with her. He just wanted her. Her embrace managed to calm the upcoming panic attack, but he still shook. He still clung to her with every piece of strength he had. He sobbed softly at her question because no, no he was not okay.

"I'm dead. His nephew, he's going to kill me. They know I don't bother with the fisherman- they're too rough, too strong-" He sobbed again, knowing that even if this man was gentle he would still be scared out of his wits. If he worked on the dock that meant he had to help load everything. That meant that he would have to be strong. Stronger than Hongbin. Perhaps even as smart as Hongbin as well. And he would be young. He would be fast.

He could overpower Hongbin, he could hurt him where the others couldn't. They were all too weak or too slow. If Hongbin wanted to escape, he could. But this man, he wouldn't be able to escape from him. The fear captivated his mind, until he couldn't even sleep.

Escaping wasn't an option anyways. He already took the money. The money was already gone.

But he couldn't focus on that. He had already hurt Dara enough, and now he was making everything about him. He felt ashamed. He sat up, trying to control himself and pull himself together. "I-I'm fine. I'll be fine." He said, trying to keep his voice steady.

@❊ Hongbin Sandara felt sick. Watching him interact with that man, blatantly seducing him made her skin crawl. She supposed it wasn't fair for her to feel that way when Hongbin himself had given her permission to flirt with other men. But she'd never do it in front of him. When they were together, it would be their time and theirs only.

Sandara shook her head, feeling hurt and guilty at the same time. She watched Hongbin manipulate the man and be manipulated right back.

She couldn't look any more. It made her want to spew up, watching her boyfriend with someone else, even if he was being paid to do it. It didn't make her feel any less jealous or any less betrayed. She was being a child, she knew. But she couldn't just sit around and except it as if she didn't care. If she did, it would be like she didn't love him at all.

Hiding herself in the bedroom, she quickly closed the door and pressed her back against it, hoping that Hongbin wouldn't try to come in. Swiping away stray tears from her eyes, she cursed herself. How could she have gotten so involved with this man? It felt like he was toying with her heart. She felt weak and frustrated and angry and lost.

She shouldn't have come here. She shouldn't have agreed to go on a date with him. She shouldn't have told him she loved him.

Damn it! Why the hell did she have to fall in love with him?!

Sandara listened even if she didn't want to. Her body willed her to and every single word she heard made her stomach churn. As soon as she heard the door go, she took and breath and willed herself to say it. "I think we should forget any of this ever happened." She didn't mean only what had just happened. She meant everything. All of it. Meeting him, going to the cave, falling in love.

From this moment on, she'd forget about him and pretend it was all a dream.

Slowly, though her eyes were brimming up with tears, she creaked the door open and croaked, "I'm gonna go home..."

Then she saw him lying on the floor, collapsed, and she swore underneath her breath. Of course her heart tugged for him and she couldn't leave him. She hurried towards him, kneeling on the floor next to him. "What the hell were you thinking?!" She snapped at him before pulled his head towards her chest and wrapping him up in a hug. "Do you know how unfair that was to me? You're supposed to be my boyfriend and I-" She sobbed, a tear trailing down her cheek. Ashamed at her tears, she swiped it away and told herself to grow up.

This wasn't about her. This wasn't about how she felt about him. This was much more than that.

"Are you okay?"

@☼ Dara Hongbin couldn't reply back, he wasn't allowed to say anything rude to his clients. He simply looked down, worrying his bottom lip between his teeth.

When the man saw his face he sighed, and with that he began to apologize and tilted his chin up just a bit. Began to. Both males froze when they heard the sound of Daras voice, Hongbins mind racing. No, he thought. Didn't she know how stupid she was being by letting him see her face?

It didn't seem like it but almost all of her customers could be dangerous. Most of them were street rats who lived with the underground, or those who didn't have a place. They found solice in having with him, and Hongbin got to take whatever money they managed to scrape together. He closed his eyes, looking away from both of them.

This wasn't what he wanted at all. He just wanted to have a nice date with Dara. Was that too much to ask for?

Hongbin flinched as if the words had been aimed towards him and not his customer. He could already see his hold on the man slipping. Years of work just gone in a matter of seconds. He couldn't let it happen.

"Ajusshi, I'm sorry for the inconveniences today. I lost track of the days earlier in the week, and I thought you were coming tomorrow. I'm sorry. Perhaps we should go out to that hotel you like, like you wanted?" He said, and it was very clear he was also silently telling Dara not to say another word. He had to up his seduction level, so he reached out and touched his forearm. Gently rubbing it, he tilted his head to the side and said almost cutely, "Ajusshi, I'm really sorry for today. If you've had enough we can meet tomorrow instead." He offered, ever so gently pushing in that direction.

The man, who wasn't as greasy as he sounded, seemed to have take the bait. It was odd but some of his customers were handsome, almost too handsome to be on their own and ordering a e. He imagined that if this hadn't been his job and if he hadn't met Dara he would have ended up with one of them. Perhaps this exact ajusshi.

"Actually Hongbinnie-ah, I wanted this appointment because I needed to discuss something with you." That made Hongbin shocked. In all his years he had never been shocked, and he wasn't able to keep the emotion from his face. He even glanced over at Dara like she would have any answers. But then he began to start, and Hongbin knew he had to listen intently.

"My nephew- I'm not going to be seeing you anymore. My nephew, you've seen him. The one that works at the fisherman's dock. Well, he's found you attractive for much time and is going to be taking my place. I've already told him all the guidelines you have set up and everything, and I know you don't like change offs like this but I promise you he's a good boy. Very handsome, like you. But perhaps a bit less-" He knew what he was going to say. It was one trait he had that all other handsome men seemed to not have.

"Flowery." He said in union with the other. He smiled and looked up at him, giving him a ninety degree bow in return for the information. "Thank you for telling me, ahjusshi. Where did you have planned for me to meet him?" He asked, his voice polite. He always had to be polite.

"I didn't think tonight would be possible for you, and it seems like I'm correct. Meet him at this hotel tomorrow, my nephew will be there around six in the afternoon." Hongbin nodded, taking the business card he gave him. He studied the address, already locking it into his memory. He only looked up when the ahjussi touched his face ever so gently, before pulling his hand away and nodding at him. Hongbin nodded back, and then the ahjussi left.

Hongbin collapsed.

@❊ Hongbin Sorry wasn't good enough. If he was really sorry, he'd come back, he'd refuse to let that guy in. He'd listen to her.

No. Sandara couldn't be childish about this. This was his job, this was where he got a lot of his money. And she would be okay with it - not fantastic, but okay - if it hadn't happened when she was there. It made it feel real. And she didn't want it to feel real - she wanted to be the only one competing for Hongbin, ually or emotionally.

Sandara stared at the window across the room, her ears trained for Hongbin's footsteps. By the sound of it, he was walking to the front door. She heard the sound of the chair scraping against the floorboards as he pulled it back from the door.

She could easily escape. The window was wide open, the breeze fluttering in. It was the perfect opportunity.

But she couldn't leave. She would grin and bear this, would pretend that the grunts and moans she'd hear weren't being caused by Hongbin. She couldn't imagine how he'd feel after he'd dealt with this customer and had come looking for her to find that she'd gone. As much as Sandara hated this situation, she didn't want to make Hongbin upset.

It was then that she heard Hongbin's voice and knew it had begun.

Then, in a split second, there was stumbling and the man's sharp, gruff voice. She tensed, deciding that he sounded a lot like the men she dealt with at the Tavern - but a lot less violent.

Sandara waited for Hongbin to say something. Was he not going to stand up for himself? Or was that part of his job? Not to speak back at his clients?

Sandara rolled her eyes and took a breath, standing up. She would have to deal with it herself. She wasn't going to let Hongbin be abused as much as he perhaps didn't want her interfering.

She quickly sorted her hair, running her finger under her eyes to remove any stray makeup, and pulled the door open.

"Looking for something?" She asked coyly, positioning herself sock her back was against the doorframe, her leg propped up seductively. "I see you didn't take my advice," she snorted.

Outside, she was confident, poised and snarky. Inside she was chattering. It wasn't the man who made her so nervous. It was what Hongbin would think of her after this. She imagined he would feel betrayed. She couldn't even look at Hongbin to see his reaction.

But, right now, she couldn't care. She had to deal with this man first and then she could face what Hongbin had to say.

"Oh, and for your information," Sandara said sweetly. "He's not unwanted. I believe that title belongs to you."

@☼ Dara To him it was.

They were both lying to men for money, making them think that they had importance when really that wasn't true. They were using their looks and bodies to make a quick bill. It didn't matter if she didn't actually do the deed, because to him it was all the same.

He looked down at the floorboards, because she could leave him here. He felt so crappy that he almost wished she would. Hongbin didn't want her to hear him when he was with that man, the thought disgusted him more than it used to. And that was probably because he'd rather be giving his body to her. Not the man that was waiting outside his door and always tasted like cigarettes and alcohol, even if he was sober.

When she told him to go it was like a shard through his heart, he felt like he had been paralyzed. He let her push him towards the door. He winced when it was slammed behind him, and closed his eyes to stop the tears from rolling down his cheeks. Without a word he composed himself, straightening himself out and burying his emotions. He would deal with his emotions later, preferably never.

"I'm sorry." He said softly, hoping that she could hear him.

He didn't walk to the door until he had reduced himself down to one single purpose. To pleasure his customer. He wasn't even Hongbin when he was in this state. Opening the door he gave his customer his usual smile, the chair having been put back where it belonged.

"Sorry for that interruption. I-" But before he could finish he was being pushed, and stumbled back. Hongbin caught himself on the table, looking at the man as if he was crazy. "What-"

"Yah, you filthy ! Who was that ? Never mind, I don't care who she is. All I know is that she locked me out and treated me with disrespect. Where is she? Or did she run and hide and leave you here like the unwanted mutt you are?" Never before had a customer insulted him so fiercely, and Hongbin was shocked into place. He didn't know what to do. What to say. He wasn't prepared for this.