THE OBSESSION PARADOX || BOYXBOY DARK ROMANCE

44. Ryan

I planned a golf date for Alex, noticing his recent enthusiasm for the sport. The old Alex would have despised golf, but this new Alex is captivating.

"Here, open this," I said, handing him a box containing golf attire.

Alex's eyes sparkled as he unwrapped the shorts and crop top. "Ryan, I can't wear this outside; you always leave marks on my waist and thighs. Everyone will see!"

I reassured him, "Let people see those marks. I don't care. They should know you're mine and off-limits." I kissed his forehead, sensing a deeper connection.

At the golf course, I reserved the entire area for us. Alex excitedly explored, and I captured memories through photos. When choosing equipment, he remarked, "There's only right-handed gear, but you'll feel more comfortable with your left hand."

"How do you know that?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.

Alex quickly covered, "I saw you flipping an omelette with ease using your left hand the other day."

His response seemed plausible, but I've been sensing something off for weeks. Small gestures, fleeting expressions – it's as if Alex is hiding something.

After an hour of golfing, we sat down for lunch. I decided to test Alex's memories. Only he knows about my eggplant and egg allergy, which could cause severe reactions. Years ago, when Alex was 22 and I was 24, he accidentally fed me the combination, and I nearly died.

I ordered eggplant curry and rice for myself and egg buns for Alex, observing his reaction.

As we ate, Alex didn't flinch at my choice. That's when I made my move. I took a bite of his egg bun.

"No, stop Ryan! Why did you eat egg with eggplant? Where's your medicine?" Alex panicked, his eyes wide with worry.

I revealed the medicine and took it with water. Alex hugged me, sniffling.

"You're stupid! Don't you know you can't eat those together? I was so worried," he exclaimed.

This reaction confirmed my suspicion: Alex's memories have returned.

"When did you regain your memories?" I asked, my voice firm but laced with hurt.

Alex's silence spoke volumes. His secret was finally out, and he knew I understood.

"Answer me, Alex," I pressed, trying to contain my emotions. "Was it fun watching me believe you'd forgotten everything? Seeing me worry about you, while you'd already remembered?" I laughed bitterly, feeling foolish.

Alex's eyes welled up with tears. "No, Ryan, it's not like that. I promise. I was selfish to hide it, but I didn't want to lose you, the gentle Ryan, please."

He broke down, sobbing uncontrollably. "I love you, Ryan. I don't want you to go back to being that dark, soulless monster. Please."

His words cut deep. Seeing him cry shattered my heart.

"I'll never return to my past self," I promised, pulling him close. "But all the sweet things you said, the new Alex I thought I knew...it all feels fake now. Do you truly love me?" I asked, vulnerability seeping into my voice.

Alex's tears intensified. "I love you, Ryan. I'm not faking it. Please don't leave me. Don't push me away. I'm sorry."

I wrapped my arms around him, holding him tightly. "I'll never leave you. I need you alive. My love for you terrifies me – it's more than any person can handle."

Our lips met in a desperate kiss.

Later, after Alex calmed down, our emotions still raw, we sought release in the changing room. Alex straddled me, his crop top clinging to his torso. I pinched his nipples, sending shivers down his spine.