Chapter 33: Fading Light

The fading light of day cast a warm orange glow over the city as Taehyun and Yeonjun reluctantly parted ways, their hands lingering in a final farewell before releasing each other. They stood on the sidewalk, the sounds of the city swirling around them, a cacophony of car horns, chatter, and music that seemed to pulse with the rhythm of their hearts. As they gazed into each other's eyes, Taehyun felt a pang of sadness wash over him. He didn't want the night to end, didn't want to leave Yeonjun's side and return to the emptiness of his apartment. But he knew he had to go, and Yeonjun seemed to sense his reluctance. "Hey, I'll walk you to the subway," Yeonjun said, his voice soft and gentle, like a summer breeze on a sweltering day. Taehyun nodded, and they set off into the evening, their footsteps echoing off the buildings as they walked. The air was cool and crisp, filled with the scent of street food and exhaust fumes, a heady mix that seemed to capture the essence of the city. As they approached the subway station, Taehyun felt a sense of unease growing inside him. He was going to have to say goodbye to Yeonjun, and then face the loneliness of his apartment once again. He quickened his pace, his heart beating just a little bit faster. When they reached the subway entrance, Yeonjun turned to him and smiled, his eyes sparkling with warmth. "I'll see you tomorrow, okay?" he said, his voice low and husky. Taehyun nodded, feeling a lump form in his throat. "Okay," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. Yeonjun leaned in, his lips brushing against Taehyun's in a soft, gentle kiss. Taehyun felt a spark of electricity run through his body, and for a moment, he forgot about the emptiness that awaited him. As they pulled away from each other, Taehyun smiled, trying to hold onto the warmth of the moment. "I'll see you tomorrow," he repeated, his voice a little stronger now. Yeonjun nodded, his eyes shining with affection. "I'll be thinking about you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. Taehyun's heart skipped a beat as he descended into the subway, the cool air enveloping him like a shroud. He found a spot to wait for the train, his eyes fixed on the exit, willing Yeonjun to stay with him just a little bit longer. But Yeonjun was already gone, disappeared into the night, leaving Taehyun to face the darkness alone. The train arrived, and Taehyun stepped into the crowded car, his eyes scanning the faces of his fellow passengers, but his mind was already back at his apartment, the emptiness waiting for him like an open wound. As the train rumbled through the tunnels, Taehyun felt the weight of his loneliness settle over him, a heavy blanket that suffocated him. He closed his eyes, trying to hold onto the memories of the night, but they were already fading, like the light of day, leaving him with nothing but the darkness.