Mei stood on Reiji's balcony, waiting for Reiji that felt further away with every passing minute. The night was oppressive; the air was so cold it felt thin, making every breath a struggle.
He raised a hand to his cheek. "It still hurts," he murmured, a bittersweet smile ghosting over his lips. He wasn't thinking of the pain, but the moment that caused it—the moment he had finally kissed Noah.
He remembered the confusion in Noah's eyes. It wasn't just shock; it was the terrifying realization that Noah hadn't hated the kiss. That contradiction was what led to the strike.
'You have a lover, yet you dared…'Noah's voice had a ragged edge of frustration.
Mei had remained silent, his gaze unwavering, refusing to look away from the man he desired.
'Mei! Why are you doing this?' Noah's breathing had been shallow, unsteady.
'Because the person I love is you, Sensei.'
