The morning sunlight spilled across the bed like gold.
Yuuto blinked awake, warm and sore in all the right ways.
Aiden's arm was draped around his waist, and his breath tickled the back of Yuuto's neck.
So it wasn't a dream…
Yuuto smiled.
Carefully, he turned in Aiden's arms and looked at the man—eyes closed, expression softer than usual. Like he was finally at peace.
For the first time since being "bought," Yuuto felt like something more than just saved.
He felt wanted.
But peace never lasts long.
Aiden stirred. "You're staring."
Yuuto grinned. "Maybe I like what I see."
Aiden groaned, dragging a pillow over his face. "You're dangerous in the morning."
"Isn't that my line?" Yuuto teased.
They got up—reluctantly—and Yuuto went to the kitchen to make coffee.
That's when the doorbell rang.
Yuuto peeked through the peephole. A woman stood there, sharp suit, high heels, red lips. Beautiful, cold.
He opened the door cautiously.
"Uh—can I help you?"
Her eyes raked over him like he was filth.
"Where's Aiden?"
Yuuto frowned. "He's busy. Who are you?"
"I'm his fiancée."
The world tilted.
"Excuse me?" Yuuto blinked.
She crossed her arms. "I don't know who you are or how long you've been playing house, but Aiden is mine. Our marriage is arranged. And you?" She sneered. "You're just a phase."
Yuuto stood there, stunned.
Aiden's voice cut through the tension. "Get out, Bianca."
She turned. "So it's true? You're screwing some boy from the streets?"
Aiden stepped in front of Yuuto protectively. "What I do with my life is none of your business. There's no marriage. No engagement. Leave."
Bianca's eyes narrowed. "You'll regret this, Aiden."
And just like that—she left.
The silence afterward was painful.
Yuuto looked down. "You were engaged?"
"Never by choice," Aiden said. "It's a business deal my father wanted. I refused. She didn't take it well."
Yuuto bit his lip. "She called me a phase…"
Aiden stepped closer, cupping his face. "You're not."
Yuuto's voice trembled. "Then prove it. Don't hide me."
"I'm not hiding you," Aiden said softly. "But the world I live in? It's cruel. And I already have one countdown ticking in my chest—I don't want you to become another casualty."
Yuuto leaned into his touch. "Too late. I've already fallen."
Aiden's eyes darkened. "Then I'll catch you."