𝓕𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓲𝓷𝓽𝓸 𝓛𝓸𝓿𝓮- 𝓙𝓪𝓴𝓮𝓗𝓸𝓸𝓷

19. The First Date Part 2

The art exhibit had been a resounding success, with Jake and Sunghoon sharing smiles, laughter, and moments of deep connection as they admired the artwork. They left the gallery hand in hand, the warm evening air wrapping around them like a comforting embrace.

"That was amazing," Jake said, his eyes still sparkling with excitement. "I never realized how much I could connect with art until now."

"I'm glad you enjoyed it," Sunghoon replied, his own smile wide. "There's something special about experiencing it together."

They walked to the Italian restaurant Sunghoon had picked out, a quaint little place with fairy lights strung across the patio and the smell of fresh basil wafting through the air. The hostess greeted them warmly and led them to a cozy corner table overlooking the ocean.

"This place is beautiful," Jake said, taking in the romantic atmosphere.

"I thought you'd like it," Sunghoon replied, his eyes never leaving Jake's face.

They perused the menu, discussing their choices with an ease that felt natural. When their meals arrived—Jake's spaghetti carbonara and Sunghoon's seafood risotto—they dug in with gusto, enjoying the rich flavors and each other's company.

"So," Jake began, twirling his fork in his pasta, "what made you choose this restaurant?"

"Honestly?" Sunghoon said with a grin. "I asked around, and everyone said it was the best place for a romantic date."

Jake's cheeks flushed slightly. "Well, they were right. This has been perfect."

As they continued their meal, their conversation flowed effortlessly. They shared stories about their childhoods, their dreams for the future, and even a few embarrassing moments that had them both laughing.

"Okay, I have to know," Sunghoon said, leaning forward with a playful glint in his eye. "What's the most embarrassing thing that's ever happened to you?"

Jake chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, there are so many. But I guess one of the worst was when I tripped on stage during a school play. I was supposed to be this regal prince, and I ended up flat on my face in front of the entire school."

Sunghoon laughed, the sound warm and infectious. "I would have paid to see that."

"Trust me, it wasn't as funny at the time," Jake said, though he was smiling too. "But looking back, it's pretty hilarious."

As the evening progressed, they found themselves lingering over dessert—a decadent tiramisu they shared, each bite a sweet reminder of how far they'd come.

"Sunghoon," Jake said softly, his eyes meeting Sunghoon's, "I want to thank you for tonight. This has been...more than I could have ever hoped for."

"I'm glad," Sunghoon replied, his voice equally soft. "Jake, there's something I need to ask you."

Jake's heart pounded in his chest. "What is it?"

Sunghoon took a deep breath, his gaze steady and sincere. "Jake, I know we've both been through a lot, and we're still figuring things out. But these past few weeks...I've never felt so connected to someone before. You're kind, thoughtful, and you make me feel like I can be myself. So, I guess what I'm trying to say is...will you be my boyfriend?"

Jake felt a rush of emotions—surprise, joy, and an overwhelming sense of rightness. He could see the earnest hope in Sunghoon's eyes, and he knew his answer without hesitation.

"Yes, Sunghoon," Jake said, his voice trembling with happiness. "I'd love to be your boyfriend."

Sunghoon's face lit up with a smile that seemed to outshine the stars above. He leaned in slowly, giving Jake plenty of time to pull away if he wanted to. But Jake didn't move; he closed the distance between them, their lips meeting in a gentle, tender kiss.

It was a kiss filled with promise and the sweet beginnings of something new. When they finally pulled apart, they both wore matching smiles, their foreheads resting against each other.

"Thank you, Jake," Sunghoon whispered. "For saying yes."

"Thank you," Jake replied, his heart full. "For asking."

They sat there for a while longer, wrapped in the magic of the moment, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together. As they walked back to the apartment, hand in hand, the world seemed to shine a little brighter, the future full of endless possibilities.