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The Phantom's Enigma

Chapter 24: Epilogue

Notes:

Let's dive into the last chapter.
Here we go.
_________________________

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

 

6 months later,

 

The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the city streets as Seungmin and Hyunjin strolled side by side, each holding a cup of ice cream. The small, cosy shop they had stopped at was one of their favourites, tucked away from the busier parts of town. Seungmin had ordered chocolate with extra sprinkles, while Hyunjin had gone for a fruity mix, claiming it was "aesthetic."

 

Despite how natural this felt, Hyunjin had called it a date .

 

Just two friends, comfortably holding hands and sharing lingering glances~ were enjoying ice cream together.

Nothing was suspicious about that.

 

Seungmin glanced down at his cup, absentmindedly stirring the ice cream with his spoon. He had been thinking about this moment all day, trying to figure out how to bring it up. He wasn't sure why he was nervous—no, actually, he did know.

 

It was Hyunjin .

He didn't want to ruin this.

 

"…Hyun," Seungmin started, his voice quieter than usual.

 

Hyunjin hummed in response, licking a bit of mango ice cream from his spoon, not noticing how Seungmin fidgeted.

 

"I, uh… I got an offer to go back to LA."

 

Hyunjin stopped mid-scoop, his spoon hovering over his mango-strawberry mix. His eyes flicked to Seungmin.

 

"It's at the same lab where I did my master's," Seungmin continued, voice steady but cautious. "And I think… I think I'm going to take it."

Hyunjin stayed still, his expression unreadable. Seungmin swallowed and let out a soft sigh.

 

"I haven't told my family yet," he admitted. "I wanted to tell you first."

 

That was what truly made Hyunjin's breath hitch. Seungmin had always been close to his family and informed them about his decisions. But this time, he told Hyunjin first.

 

Hyunjin exhaled through his nose, shaking his head with a small laugh.

 

"You had me nervous for a second," he muttered. "I thought you were going to say something dramatic like, 'Don't like me', 'Let's break up' or something." He rolled his eyes but smiled, poking at his ice cream. "Even though, technically, we'd have to be dating to break up— but whatever . Waiting for you is no big deal."

 

Seungmin blinked. "Wait—" He narrowed his eyes. "I thought we were already a couple."

 

Hyunjin immediately choked on his ice cream.

His ears burned red as he gaped at Seungmin, scrambling to find words.

 

"W-Well—I mean—o-of course, I thought—but—"

Seungmin smirked. "Oh my god. Were you waiting for me to say it first?"

 

Hyunjin groaned, dropping his spoon in defeat. "Shut up."

"Did you plan a confession?"

Hyunjin refused to meet his gaze. "Maybe."

 

Seungmin leaned forward, grinning. "Did it have flowers?"

"…Shut up."

 

"Did it have rings?"

"…Possibly."

 

Seungmin laughed, reaching out to tug Hyunjin's hands away from his face. "Then confess to me now."

Hyunjin groaned. "You're the worst."

Seungmin smiled. "And yet, you still like me."

 

Hyunjin sighed dramatically before finally gathering himself. He looked Seungmin straight in the eye, his expression soft but determined.

"Seungmin, I love you," he said. "And no matter where you go, how long you're gone, I'll always be here, waiting for you."

Seungmin felt warmth bloom in his chest.

 

Hyunjin continued, his voice gentle but unwavering. "Your family will support whatever makes you happy. And so will I. I would wait for you no matter where you go or how long you're away ."

 

He chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I mean, I found you when you were a wandering ghost, crying like a child, remember?"

 

Seungmin's cheeks flushed at the teasing, but he couldn't help the fond smile that tugged at his lips. "I wasn't crying like a child," he protested, though the warmth in his chest made it hard to argue.

 

"I was worried about everything, and you found me," Seungmin admitted, his voice quieter now. "But... I know I can always come back to you. And I want you to know that I'll always come back."

 

Hyunjin's expression softened, the teasing fading into something lovely, more meaningful. He leaned closer, his forehead almost touching Seungmin's. "I've always known we meant to be together. Even if it means waiting for you, I'll do it. You're worth it, Min."

 

Seungmin's heart fluttered in his chest, his emotions swirling. He had never been good at expressing his feelings, but at this moment, he knew what he wanted. He tilted his head slightly, meeting Hyunjin's gaze with complete sincerity.

 

"I love you, Hyunjin," Seungmin said, his voice barely above a whisper but full of emotion.

 

The words lingered before Hyunjin leaned in, his breath warm against Seungmin's skin. He gently kissed Seungmin's forehead, a tender gesture that spoke volumes. A soft smile spread across his lips, his eyes glimmering with warmth and affection, reflecting a deep connection that enveloped them in a serene moment.

 

"I love you too, Min," he whispered back. "And I'll be waiting. Whenever you're ready, I'll be here. I'll always be here."

 

 

 

~

 

 

 

The Kim family's spacious dining room was filled with laughter and the inviting aroma of their mother's home-cooked meals. The table had a spread of food, everything from fried chicken to kimchi stew, and everyone was digging in, exchanging stories about their day.

 

Seungwoo, always the serious one, looked at the others, his expression shifting between hesitant and determined. After a few moments of silence, he put down his chopsticks and cleared his throat.

 

"Actually... there's something I've been meaning to share with you all," Seungwoo said, looking at his parents with anticipation and anxiety. "I've decided... I'm officially going back to racing. The coach has communicated with several teams and believes I am ready."

 

For a moment, the room went still. Mr Kim's brow furrowed as he carefully put his chopsticks down. "Racing... after everything that happened?" he asked, his voice tinged with concern.

 

Seungmin, sitting next to Seungwoo, glanced at their father before speaking up. "Dad, I think it's something Woo wants. He's been through so much, and it's the one thing that makes him happy."

Their father paused, considering Seungwoo's words.

 

After a long, almost uncomfortable silence, he sighed and looked up with a soft, understanding smile. "I may not fully understand it, but I know how important it is to you," he said. I can't say I'm not worried, but if this is what you want~ I'll support you."

 

Seungwoo smiled, relieved, and raised his glass in a quiet toast. "Thanks, Dad. I promise I won't rush into anything too risky."

 

Their mother dabbed at her eyes with a tissue after listening intently. "I'm just so proud of you both," she said softly, her voice trembling slightly with emotion.

 

"You've both been through so much. And here you are—standing strong. I've been so scared for you both, but seeing you grow like this makes me happy."

 

Seungmin, who had been quietly observing, spoke up next, his tone quieter but no less sincere. "I'm thinking of going back to my neuroscience research lab," he said, avoiding the gaze of his family for a moment. "I've been offered a position at a lab in LA after my thesis got approved, and I feel like it's time to dive back into my work."

 

Their mother's eyes widened as she looked at Seungmin, her expression filled with pride and concern. "LA... again. Will you be okay there, Min?" she asked, voice soft but worried.

 

Seungmin smiled, his eyes warm with reassurance. "I'll be okay, Mom. I'll keep in touch. And besides, I'll be back here whenever I can. I know you'll miss me, but I'm excited about the opportunity."

 

Seungwoo grinned, leaning over and nudging Seungmin lightly. "If you're going back for real, I'll have to visit you often just to observe you're not getting into trouble."

 

Seungmin laughed, rolling his eyes as he playfully pushed Seungwoo's shoulder. "You're one to talk. I'm sure you'll be too busy with your racing schedule to check on me."

 

Seungwoo laughed heartily, his smile lighting up his face. "True. But don't worry, I'll still make sure you don't end up on any wild adventures without me."

 

Their parents couldn't help but chuckle at the playful banter between the brothers, bringing a warm and cheerful lightness to the evening as it unfolded. Their father, lifting his glass high, declared, "Though you two have always been so different, you've consistently stood by each other's side. That bond is what truly matters. I'm proud of both of you, no matter what you choose next."

 

The family enjoyed the rest of the evening, sharing stories, teasing each other, and savouring the meal their mother had made.

 

 

 

____________~___________~_________~__________~____________~_____________

 

~2 years later~

 

The sun shone brightly over the Kim family mansion, casting a warm glow over the backyard. The rhythmic sound of a badminton shuttlecock smacked back and forth filled the air, accompanied by laughter and teasing jabs between the two brothers.

 

Seungwoo squinted at his younger twin, shaking his head in disbelief. "I swear, your brain is structured differently. You flew halfway across the world, landed in Korea at midnight, and instead of being jetlagged like a normal person, you forced me into an early-morning badminton match.'

 

Seungmin smirked as he lunged forward to return a sharp shot. "I just spent two years sitting in labs—I need to stretch my legs. Besides, you were always the one who whined about me getting lazy."

 

Seungwoo scoffed. "I meant going to the gym, not dragging me out before breakfast like the Olympics."

 

Their parents sat on a nearby bench, content and amused, watching their sons battle.

 

Mrs Kim chuckled, shaking her head. "It's so good to see you both like this again."

 

Mr Kim hummed in agreement. "Feels like it's been years since we've had a morning like this."

 

Seungwoo grinned, sending a tricky shot over the net. "Maybe because it has been years. The last time we played, Seungmin rage-quit after losing."

 

Seungmin scoffed dramatically. "Excuse me? That never happened."

 

Their father raised an eyebrow. "I recall you throwing your racket at your brother's head."

 

Seungwoo smirked. "See? Confirmed."

 

Seungmin groaned but couldn't hide his laughter. "That was one time."

 

The match continued with increasing intensity, and the brothers locked in playful yet competitive energy. Seungmin moved fluidly, a sign of his full recovery after months of therapy and patience.

 

Finally, after a particularly fast-paced rally, Seungmin scored the winning point. He threw his arms up in victory. "And that's game! I'm officially the Kim family's badminton champion!"

 

Seungwoo wiped the sweat off his brow, pretending to be exhausted. "Fine, fine. You win. I'll let you have this one."

 

Seungmin smirked. "You'd better start training if you want a rematch."

Seungwoo shook his head. "Nah. If I wanted to drop dead from exhaustion, I'd go spar with my racing team."

 

Seungmin snorted, casually reaching for his bag. "Maybe they've gotten weak like you."

 

Seungwoo gasped in mock offence. "Excuse me?"

 

Ignoring him, Seungmin slung the bag over his shoulder. "I'm heading to the dance academy later. Hyunjin still thinks I'm in LA—I wanna surprise him."

 

Seungwoo's brow lifted with interest. "Oh? A date, huh?"

 

Seungmin rolled his eyes, but the slight redness in his ears betrayed him. "It's not a date, Woo. We're just meeting up."

 

Mrs. Kim, who had been quietly listening, grinned. "I wouldn't mind if you two were serious. Hyunjin's a wonderful young man."

 

Seungmin groaned. "Not you, too, Mom."

 

Mr. Kim chuckled, shaking his head. "At least one of you has social plans."

 

Seungwoo crossed his arms, smirking. "Seriously, you disappear for two years, and the first person you go see is Hyunjin?"

 

Seungmin deadpanned. "Yes. Because obviously, my priority is seeing my boyfriend first."

 

Seungwoo's smirk widened. "Oh, so now you're admitting he's your boyfriend?"

 

Seungmin froze for a split second before quickly grabbing his water bottle. "Anyway, I gotta go. Try not to start any more rumours while I'm gone."

 

Seungwoo burst into laughter as Seungmin hurried off. "Tell Hyunjin I said hi~"

 

Mrs. Kim called out, barely holding back her laughter, "Don't forget—dinner's at seven! We're having your favourite tonight—kimchi jjigae."

 

Seungmin's face lit up at the mention of food. Seungmin waved over his shoulder. "Got it!"

 

As he disappeared inside, Seungwoo shook his head in amusement. "If those two don't get married at this point, it'll be a waste of two years of long-distance."

 

Their father let out a knowing chuckle. "Considering Hyunjin waited two years for him."

 

Seungwoo scoffed playfully. "That guy is so devoted, it's insane."

Mrs. Kim gasped, laughing. "Seungwoo!"

 

He shrugged with a grin. "I'm just saying, if that's not love, I don't know what is."

 

Laughter rippled through the backyard, filling the air with warmth and familiarity. It was a rare moment of peace, but one they had fought hard to have—one they'd treasure for a long time.

 

 

 

~

 

 

 

The afternoon sun cast a golden hue over the streets as Seungmin arrived at the dance academy, excitement bubbling inside him. It had been too long since he'd last set foot here and even longer since he'd seen Hyunjin in person. He wanted to surprise him—wanted to see the exact moment Hyunjin realized he was finally home.

 

As he stepped inside, the familiar hum of music and laughter greeted him. The rhythmic sounds of sneakers squeaking against the polished floor mixed with breathless chatter as the dance crew wrapped up their latest routine. Seungmin leaned against the doorway, watching with an amused smile as Hyunjin, totally unaware of his presence, groaned dramatically and collapsed onto the floor after finishing a particularly intense move.

 

"That bad, huh?" Seungmin called out casually.

 

Hyunjin's head snapped up so fast it was a miracle he didn't get whiplash. His eyes widened, disbelief flashing across his face before it melted into pure joy.

 

"Seungmin?!" Hyunjin scrambled to his feet, nearly tripping over himself in his rush to get to him. "What the—when did you—why didn't you tell me you were back?!"

 

Seungmin barely had time to react before Hyunjin crashed into him, pulling him into the tightest hug imaginable. Joyful laughter reverberated through the room as their friends erupted into enthusiastic cheers and playful coos, creating a charged atmosphere with excitement.

 

"Oh my god, he's here," Felix gasped, clutching his chest dramatically. "No wonder Hyunjin's been more unbearable than usual—his other half was missing!"

 

Minho smirked, arms crossed. "Look at him. He's completely flabbergasted."

 

"Flabbergasted?" IN echoed, snickering. "That's not even a real word."

"It is now." Minho shrugged. "I mean, look at Hyunjin. He's glowing."

 

Hyunjin, who still had his arms wrapped tightly around Seungmin, groaned. "You guys are impossible."

 

Felix grinned. "You're one to talk. You look like you just won the lottery."

 

Hyunjin pulled back just enough to look at Seungmin, his hands resting on his waist. "Well, can you blame me? My boyfriend just magically appeared out of nowhere. I last saw him eight months ago during the chuseok celebration." His voice was warm, but there was something softer in his eyes—something vulnerable.

 

Seungmin smiled while brushing a strand of hair off Hyunjin's face. "You're so dramatic."

 

Minho snorted. "And you love it."

 

"I do," Seungmin admitted with a smirk. "That's the problem."

 

The boys continued teasing, Hyunjin glaring at them half-heartedly, but his hands never left Seungmin's waist. It was as if he was afraid to let go, scared that this was all just a dream. Eventually, as the laughter died, he squeezed Seungmin's hand and lowered his voice.

 

"Hey," he murmured, his smile faltering just a little. "So, how long do I have before you leave again?"

 

The question made the room fall quiet for a beat. The playful teasing faded into something more tender, more real.

 

Seungmin tilted his head, watching how Hyunjin tried to mask the sadness in his eyes. He reached for Hyunjin's hands, lacing their fingers together before smiling softly.

 

"Never," Seungmin whispered.

 

Hyunjin blinked, his breath hitching. "What?"

 

"I'm not leaving again," Seungmin said, voice steady. "I accepted an offer to be a research professor at Seoul University. I'm back for good." His fingers squeezed Hyunjin's. "I'm not going anywhere, Jinnie. Not without you."

 

For a second, Hyunjin stared at him as if trying to process the words. Then, before Seungmin could react, Hyunjin cupped his face and kissed him—right there, in the middle of the dance studio, in front of all their friends.

 

"Oh my god, finally," Felix groaned. "This is better than any drama I've watched."

 

Minho smirked, "Seungmin, if he starts crying, I'm blaming you."

 

IN shook his head in mock disapproval. "My eyes!!! Hyunjin hyung, have some dignity!"

 

Hyunjin pulled away just enough to glare at them. "Shut up."

"You're serious?!" Hyunjin breathed, eyes wide.

Seungmin nodded. "Dead serious."

 

Hyunjin let out a laugh—relieved, overjoyed, overwhelmed. Then, Hyunjin again wrapped Seungmin in a tight hug, burying his face in his shoulder. "You have no idea how happy that makes me."

 

The room exploded with cheers. Felix tackled Seungmin in a hug, closely followed by IN, who practically jumped on his back.

 

Seungmin laughed, brushing a thumb over Hyunjin's cheek. "You're so embarrassing."

 

"Whatever," Hyunjin grinned, his eyes impossibly bright. "You're stuck with me now."

 

"Guess I am." Seungmin squeezed his hand. "Not that I mind."

 

Minho clapped his hands together. "Alright, lovebirds, enough. Let's celebrate. 3RACHA's still in their studio, right? Let's bother them and make them take us out for lunch."

 

Felix gasped. "Oh, genius idea. We should drag them out."

 

IN smirked and remarked, "You do realize they're going to complain, right?"

 

"Exactly why we should do it," Minho replied.

 

Seungmin chuckled, shaking his head. "You guys missed me, huh?"

 

Felix threw an arm around him. "Obviously."

 

With their plan set, the group headed out, laughter filling the air as they made their way to the 3RACHA studio. Seungmin had only been back for a few hours, but it felt like home again already.

 

 

 

~

 

 

 

After finishing up at the dance studio, the group made their way toward the 3RACHA studio, their excitement evident in the playful teasing and easy laughter that filled the air. Hyunjin, in particular, was practically bouncing on his heels, his eagerness to see Seungmin again making him oblivious to the knowing smirks from the others.

 

Felix elbowed IN with a grin. "Look at him. He's walking like he's reunited with his long-lost lover after ten years."

 

Minho snickered. "More like a puppy reunited with his favourite chew toy."

 

Hyunjin glared but couldn't wipe the smile off his face. "Can you two shut up for, like, five minutes?"

 

IN grinned. "Not a chance."

 

Before Hyunjin could retaliate, they reached the 3RACHA studio. Inside, Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han were reviewing music on Chan's laptop. The moment they saw the incoming group, Han's head snapped up, his eyes landing on Seungmin.

 

"SEUNGMIN?!" Han practically screeched as he shot up from his seat. "No freaking way—what are you doing here?!"

 

Seungmin grinned. "What, I'm not allowed to visit anymore?"

 

Before he could react, Han lunged at him, pulling him into a dramatic hug. "You disappeared for so long, I thought you abandoned us! You know, like one of those side characters who gets written off in the second season."

 

Changbin rolled his eyes but smiled. "Han, let the man breathe."

 

Bang Chan chuckled as he walked over, his expression warm. "Seungmin, it's been a while, huh? Good to see you, man."

 

Seungmin nodded, feeling the warmth of familiarity settle in his chest. "Yeah, I've missed this."

 

"Hyunjin's been an absolute mess without you, by the way," Han added mischievously. "Like, genuinely unbearable."

 

Hyunjin scoffed. "I was NOT a mess—"

 

"Oh, you so were," Changbin interrupted with a smirk. "Walking around all moody, staring dramatically out of windows, sighing whenever someone mentioned Seungmin's name—"

 

"I did NOT do that," Hyunjin huffed, his ears turning red.

 

"Oh, but you did, hyung," IN added, grinning. "Felix even caught you doodling Seungmin's name in your notebook."

 

"Oh, but you did, hyung," IN added, grinning. "Felix even caught you doodling Seungmin's name in your notebook."

 

Felix nodded solemnly. "He tried to cover it up, but I saw it with my eyes."

 

Hyunjin groaned, burying his face in his hands. "I hate all of you."

 

Seungmin laughed, eyes crinkling with affection. "You missed me that much, huh?"

 

Hyunjin sighed dramatically, grabbing Seungmin's hands. "Yes, okay? I missed you. I missed you so much, and now that you're here, I'm the happiest man alive."

The others collectively gagged.

 

"This is disgusting," Minho deadpanned.

"Someone get a bucket," IN added. "I'm going to throw up."

 

Seungmin rolled his eyes but smiled, squeezing Hyunjin's hands.

Changbin clapped his hands. "Alright, enough of this sappy stuff. Seungmin's back. Hyunjin's done being dramatic—let's celebrate! Lunch is on me."

 

"Whoa, whoa," Chan cut in. "Did you just say 'on me' ?"

 

"I take it back," Changbin immediately backpedalled. "Lunch is on Han."

 

"WHAT?!"

 

The group laughed as they pulled a reluctant Han out of the studio.

 

As they made their way to the restaurant, the lively atmosphere continued. Seungmin found himself in the centre of the chaos, happily catching up with 3RACHA while also getting mercilessly teased by the others.

 

Han looked at Seungmin eagerly, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "So, have you been reading anything new lately? You know I always need new recommendations."

 

Seungmin grinned, already excited to share. "Actually, yeah! I just finished this manhwa about a guy stuck in a time loop. It's pretty intense, but the art is amazing."

 

"Oh man, I love that kind of stuff," Han responded, his eyes lighting up.

 

"Time loops? My jam. What's it called?"

 

Seungmin's face lit up as he described the story in more detail. "It's called Chrono Escape. The main character is trying to break free from the loop while solving the mystery behind the artefact causing it."

 

Han nodded eagerly. "I'm adding that to my list. Time loops and cursed artefacts? That's right up my alley."

 

Minho chuckled. "Hey, Han, maybe you should stop reading manhwa and get some work done, huh?"

 

Han winked. "You know I can multitask, Minho hyung. I can read, work, and still find time to annoy you all concurrently."

 

As they continued talking about the latest manhwa they'd been reading, Chan, walking slightly ahead, turned back at Felix, who had slowed down just a little.

 

"How's your back, Felix? Still feeling any pain?" Chan asked, his voice full of concern.

 

Felix held his back casually as he flashed a reassuring smile. "It's been good. The treatment's been helping a lot. I'm just being careful, you know? I'm avoiding anything that might trigger the pain again."

 

"You've been playing it safe, huh?" Hyunjin teased, glancing back. "That's a good idea, though. We don't want you to get injured again."

 

Felix laughed, shrugging it off. "Yeah, better safe than sorry. But it's better than before, so I can't complain."

 

IN leaned in to whisper to Seungmin with a sly grin. "You know, I've caught him sneaking in a few extra dance moves on the side when he thinks no one's looking."

 

Seungmin chuckled, giving Felix a teasing glance. "What's this? Trying to get back into shape, Felix?"

 

Felix chuckled and rolled his eyes. "Only when I'm sure it won't make me feel like an old man afterwards."

 

As the conversation shifted, IN, who had been walking behind, joined in with a mischievous grin. "So, what's this I hear about manhwa addiction?" he asked, raising an eyebrow at Seungmin and Han. "You two are like a walking recommendation list. I might need a break from all this manhwa talk."

 

Seungmin laughed. "Hey, it's not that bad. It's just ~ you know, a good escape."

 

"Yeah. It's an escape into other worlds. That's how we roll," Han added with a proud grin.

 

IN shook his head but was smiling. "You two are the worst, seriously."

 

As they continued walking and laughing, the conversation naturally shifted to lighter topics, with everyone chiming in and teasing one another. Then, Seungmin started talking about sea creatures, bringing up his recent obsession with marine biology.

 

"I've been reading a lot about deep-sea creatures recently," Seungmin said, his eyes lighting up. "It's incredible how many bizarre species live down there—like the anglerfish or the ones that glow in the dark."

 

Han's face lit up. "No way, that's cool! I love anything ocean-related. Did you know there's a fish that can change its gender depending on its environment?"

 

Felix, overhearing, leaned in. "Wait, that's a thing? How does that work?"

 

"Yeah, it's called the clownfish," Seungmin explained. "They change their sex if the dominant female in the group dies, so the male becomes the new female. It's wild."

 

Han nodded eagerly, taking in the information. "That's insane. I've got to look up more about that."

 

Changbin, who had been walking ahead, turned around with a grin. "The only time I care about sea creatures is when they're cooked and ready to be eaten," he quipped, causing everyone to laugh.

 

 

Seungmin playfully rolled his eyes. "Of course. You're so predictable, Changbin hyung."

 

"Hey, it's the truth!" Changbin shrugged, laughing with the group.

 

The laughter and banter continued as they finally reached the restaurant, their bond stronger than ever. Even in the simplest moments, this was home.

 

And, finally, Seungmin was where he belonged.

 

 

 

~

 

 

After undergoing therapy and rehabilitation, Seungmin fully recovered and accepted a job offer at a prestigious lab in LA. ~ Two years later, he returned to Korea for good, having secured a well-paying position as a research professor at Seoul University. Being back home means more than just career growth—it allows him to be with his boyfriend without the strain of a long-distance relationship and to stay close to his family.

 

Seungwoo, on the other hand, re-entered the racing scene as soon as Seungmin left for LA. In the past two years, he has established a remarkable reputation, attracting a loyal fanbase and becoming a well-known figure in the racing community. He has also begun preparing to take over the family business, stepping up as Mr Kim gradually transitions out of his role. Seeing both their sons thrive in their respective fields, Mr and Mrs Kim couldn't be prouder of the Seung twins—not just for their success but for their perseverance and resilience.

 

Hyunjin, IN, Minho, and Felix collaborated to establish their dance academy, which became well-known in the industry. Their innovative choreography has left a significant mark, attracting K-pop idols and professional dancers. Beyond their work with professionals, they also hold small classes for children, nurturing young talents from an early age. Felix, however, had to take a six-month break during Seungmin's first year in LA to undergo surgery for his herniated disc. The procedure significantly reduced his pain and discomfort, but the others still kept a watchful eye on him to prevent overexertion. He continues monthly physiotherapy sessions to maintain his recovery.

 

Meanwhile, 3RACHA—Han, Changbin, and Chan—have skyrocketed to global fame as top-tier producers. Their music consistently dominates the charts, yet they have remained in their original studio, refusing to relocate to a larger space despite numerous offers. Their impact goes beyond music production as they often judge reality competition shows, influencing the next generation of talent.

 

As for Yugyeom, the beloved cousin of the Seung twins, he is currently serving his mandatory military service. With only four months left before his discharge, Seungmin and Seungwoo have already compiled a list of things they want to do together once he's back.

 

Jake has completed his prison sentence and now dedicates his time to community service as mandated by the court. Despite Seungwoo's persistent efforts to bring him back to the racing world, Jake has chosen to leave that part of his life behind, unable to separate it from the painful memories of his past. He also refused to inherit his father's illicit fortune, instead donating the money to UNICEF and the UN. Using the inheritance from his mother's side, he pursued a new dream—opening a café with a craft shop, which was a surprising success. Perhaps the most unexpected development was Mr. Seo, Changbin's father and the lawyer who fought against Jake's father, stepping in as Jake's legal guardian.

 

As for Mr. Lee, Jake's father, he remains in prison, serving his well-deserved sentence.

 

And so, two years later, each of them has found their path—some returning home, some carving out new futures, and some still healing from the past. But no matter how much time has passed, their bond remains unshaken, proving that no distance, hardship, or change could break the connections they fought to protect.

 

------------------------------The END------------------------------

Notes:

~

Dear Cupcakes,
As I bring this story to a close, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for each and every one of you. From the first chapter to the final words, your support, encouragement, and love have meant more to me than I could ever express.

Thank you for taking this journey with me. Thank you for investing your time and emotions into these characters and allowing their stories to imprint on your hearts.

Your comments, feedback, and kind words have been a constant source of motivation, and knowing that this story resonated with you in any way makes all the effort worthwhile.

Writing this has been an incredible experience, and it wouldn't have been the same without you. Whether you've been here from the beginning or joined along the way, I appreciate you more than words can say. This story may have ended, but the memories and connections we've built through it will always remain.

Thank you for believing in this story. Thank you for believing in me. 💙

I've started a new Han-centric fanfic. Do check it out.
Till I see you again, please stay healthy and happy.
Buh bye.

~