The next day, Ren couldn't meet Denial's eyes.
He avoided his gaze, speaking in short replies, always looking away. And because he had university classes that day, Denial barely saw him at all. The antique shop felt quieter than usual.
Later that evening, as Ren returned home and quietly walked toward his bedroom, trying not to draw attention, Denial's calm voice called out from behind him—
"How was your class today?"
Ren flinched, startled. As he turned around quickly, his foot slipped on the wooden floor. He stumbled—but before he could fall, Denial caught him.
For a second, they stood still, too close.
And in that small moment of imbalance, it happened again.
Their lips brushed—accidentally, unintentionally.
Ren's eyes widened, shocked. "I—I'm sorry! I didn't mean to—"
But Denial simply said, gently, "It's okay."
Then, stepping back with his usual calmness, Denial added with a faint smile,
"Go freshen up. I'll make you something to eat."
Ren nodded quickly, still flustered. "Okay…"
And just like that, the evening settled again.
Their days continued as usual—soft, steady, almost normal.
Mornings at the antique shop, Ren's university classes in the afternoon, quiet evenings at home.
But for Ren, nothing felt normal anymore.
Every time he looked at Denial, it was with a heart full of quiet affection—his eyes lingering a little longer, his thoughts often wandering back to stolen glances and gentle moments.
And Denial… he noticed.
He saw the way Ren looked at him. The softness. The longing. The quiet hope.
But Denial never said a word.
He continued treating Ren like he always had—like a younger brother. Caring, protective… and distant.
One evening, while cleaning out the back shelves of the shop, Ren finally broke the silence.
He looked at Denial, voice soft but steady. "Can I ask you something?"
Denial glanced over. "Of course."
Ren took a breath. "Don't you… don't you ever feel anything for me? Not even a little?"
Denial froze.
Ren went on, quietly—
"I know I've been obvious. I know you see the way I look at you. But you never say anything. Do you really still see me only as your younger brother?"
Denial looked at him, a faint trace of sadness in his eyes.
"I've always seen you that way, Ren," he said gently. "You were someone I wanted to protect. Someone I cared for… as family."
The words hung between them like a soft ache.
Ren didn't say anything.
He just nodded slowly—and looked away, hiding the storm inside his chest.
Continue.....