Yuuto returned to the city with a swirling mix of guilt and confusion clouding his chest. Julien had stayed professional the rest of the trip, but every glance, every unspoken word lingered like a whisper in the back of Yuuto's mind.
He stepped into Aiden's penthouse late in the evening. The moment the door shut behind him, warm arms wrapped around his waist.
"You're back," Aiden murmured into his neck.
Yuuto melted for a moment, letting himself fall into the familiar safety of Aiden's embrace. "I missed you."
"I missed you more." Aiden stepped back to study his face. "But I can tell something's wrong."
Yuuto hesitated. "Julien… he made it clear he likes me."
Aiden's eyes darkened instantly. "Did he touch you?"
"No. He didn't cross a line." Yuuto paused. "But he wanted to."
Aiden's jaw clenched. "He thinks because I'm dying, he can steal you away. That I'm… temporary."
Yuuto grabbed his hand. "You're not temporary to me."
Aiden didn't answer, but his silence was heavy with emotion.
---
The next day, Aiden didn't go to his office. Instead, he scheduled a lunch meeting with Julien.
They met at a quiet rooftop restaurant. Yuuto didn't know.
Julien arrived first, dressed immaculately, as always. Aiden joined him five minutes later, eyes cold, presence sharp.
Julien grinned. "Ah, the ever-mysterious Aiden. I was wondering when you'd come out of your castle."
Aiden sat, calm and unreadable. "Let's make this quick. Stay away from Yuuto."
Julien tilted his head. "Is that a request… or a warning?"
"A truth. I don't care if you're rich or charming. He's not yours."
"And yet, he was the one looking at me. Listening. Blushing." Julien's smile widened. "He's curious."
Aiden's voice dropped. "He may be curious. But he's loyal. And I don't need forever to love him the way he deserves."
Julien leaned back. "So what happens when you're gone?"
Aiden stood up slowly. "That's between me and him. But if you touch him without his consent again…" He paused, leaning closer. "I won't need a decade to ruin you."
Julien's smirk faltered for the first time.
Aiden left without another word.
---
That night, Yuuto noticed the change in Aiden. He held him longer. Kissed him slower. As if memorizing him.
Yuuto whispered against his chest, "You're afraid, aren't you?"
Aiden nodded. "Terrified."
Yuuto cupped his face gently. "Then let's make every moment count."