Shadows of Desire (Completed)

Chapter 10 (Part Two)

Three years later…

There was only the sound of waves crashing and rolling up the shoreline. Jin spends his days on the beach, trying to find one deserted enough that he can feel lost, even for a moment. The bright hues of purple and pink that painted across the sky were reflected in the water that remained behind after a wave rolled back to the sea. He always looks at the sea, but it is still breathtaking.

Tears crowd his eyes as colors light up the sky. He wonders how there can exist such pain in the world at the same time as such beauty. His eyes are teary and when he closes them he sees the sunset behind his lids. He spends hours on the beach thinking about all the good times he had shared with him and he even remembers the shitty times for good measure. He leans against the bench and recollect his thoughts.

It’s been three years since he was imprisoned. It was the darkest days of his life. He was always crying softly at night, thinking how he can survive. Slowly, he accepted his fate. And every time passed by, he always looked forward when he and Taehyung will be together again.

When he was discharged from prison, he wanted to start anew.

He asked Taehyung if he can reside outside Seoul, away from his nightmares. And one day, Taehyung surprised him that he already bought a small house near a beach. He was stunned that Taehyung remembered that he said that he wanted to settle in a house near the waters.

And Jin realized what he wanted. 

He wanted to become a teacher and he is hoping that it is not too late for him to be part of the academe. In this small town, Jin applied as a Science teacher and he was accepted due to his good credentials. He told the dean everything about his past and the kind man still accepted him without prejudice.

Taehyung continued to serve in the police department and even though he was scared every time he is on a mission, he is very proud of him. But Taehyung never missed a chance to tell him that he loves him and he will come back healthy.

Jin opened his eyes when he felt that someone is watching him.

And there he is.

As he took in his features, his dark brown hair, tousled by the wind, the boxy smile on his lips that made his heart skipped a beat. The man runs towards him and never missed a second to embrace him.

“I missed you. How are you?” Taehyung asked Jin.

“I’m fine. I missed you too.” Jin whispered to Taehyung while caressing his hair.

“How’s school?” Taehyung closed his eyes. He misses his gentle touch.

“It’s okay. I’m adapting. The high school students are way much easier to handle than Neon and Madness.” Jin cackled when he remembered them.

“Back then, I knew you will become a great teacher. Your prowess in Science is way beyond the geniuses.”

“Oh cmon, I know you’re my fan but that’s not necessary, VV.” Jin shook his head and smiled.

“It’s been three months since you had transferred here but I think you’ve gain weight, hyung. Your skin looks healthier too. It seems that the beach is good for you.”

“I love the ambience here. So peaceful and serene. So far away from toxicity.”

Taehyung takes his hand and they walk along the beach. Then they stopped and sit on the sand. For a long moment they both watch the sunset silently. Taehyung stares at the ocean but Jin can’t take his eyes off Taehyung. He looks beautiful today.

“I thought I was going to lose you again.” Jin said, not averting his gaze on Taehyung’s face.

“I would never let that happen again. I promise.” Taehyung smiled at Jin.

Jin couldn’t control himself. He placed his one hand on Taehyung’s neck and kissed him hungrily. They kept kissing for what felt like forever and they wouldn’t care for the world. Jin felt all his insecurities faded away. And when they broke the kiss, they just smiled at each other.

The sun finally disappears and Taehyung stood up and pulled Jin to help him stand up.

“Let’s go home. It’s been a long day and I am tired.” Taehyung mumbled and tugged Jin back to their house.

“You just came back and you’re already tired. How are you going to endure your one month vacation?”

“Well, I think Jamais Vu 2.0 will help me.” Taehyung winked at Jin which earned laughter from him.

“With your stamina in bed, I don’t think you will need it this time.” Jin chuckled.

“And with a sexy witch beside me, I think I will ask for another one month extension for my vacation. Be ready Jin.” Taehyung pulled him in the waist and leave a peck on his lips.

“I am always ready.” Jin kissed him back.

After all their struggles, realizations were pondered on.

Jin forgives himself.

Taehyung helps Jin to move on.

Jin promised to give Taehyung all the love that he deserves.

Taehyung promised to protect him.

Jin is grateful to the brave man who waited for him and fight for their love. The one who gave him hope against the shadows of his nightmares.

And underneath that purple horizon, two souls are together again and now, nothing can keep them apart.