When they reached the hall, there were thousands of people—fans, staff, and even the members inside.
Chaewon and Han slipped in from the backdoor. But before crossing the threshold, Chaewon froze.
Han, already inside, turned back. "Chaewon, come inside."
Chaewon lifted his head and looked straight into his eyes.
"Hyung… let's run away."
Han took two steps back toward him. His voice softened. "Okay, fine. Let's run away. But do you really think running away will solve anything? In this world, no matter where I take you, people will still notice you. So where can we hide?"
He moved closer, took Chaewon's hand firmly, and said, "Chaewon, let's fight. Just this one time, listen to me. I will never force you again for anything, but this time I want you to walk in front of people with the same confidence you once had—because you did nothing wrong."
Chaewon's breathing grew heavy. "I'm scared… it's been such a long time since I've faced so many people."
Han smiled gently, his eyes full of warmth. "I'm with you. If at any point you feel like you can't do this, just look back at me. I'll be right there. Always. Just come back to me."
Then, still holding his hand, he guided Chaewon inside.
The staff led them into the VIP room and handed Chaewon a suit.
Chaewon changed quietly while Han waited outside to give him space.
Han stood by the door when Hanbin arrived with a man who looked like a lawyer, carrying a suitcase, along with a staff member.
"Thanks, Han, for bringing him," he said, his tone careful. "This is Kim Hyee—she'll take care of you from here. I don't want you to get involved anymore."
Kim Hyee bowed politely. Han returned the bow.
Han knocked softly, and Chaewon won opened the door, still fastening the buttons of his shirt.
Han gave him an apologetic glance. "Chaewon, I'm going. If you need anything, call me—I'll come."
From the corner of his eye, hanbin studied them carefully. Something tugged at his thoughts. No… this can't be just one-sided. Look at the way he speaks to Chaewon —as if they've known each other for years.
Han walked away with Kim Hyee, while Chaewon's eyes lingered on him, heavy with longing. Han could see the difference in his eyes. The sparkle in his eyes was gone. He started to rewind when was the last time he saw his sparkling eyes. Han couldn't accept the fact that will he never ever eye that Chaewon ever again. And it was a harsh truth. Han never saw sparkle and that shine he once had ever again.
Then Hanbin and the lawyer stepped inside and sat down.