Three years together had turned Kael and Elias into something that confused almost everyone around them. They flirted shamelessly, bickered over insignificant things, stole each other's food, and constantly competed for attention. Anyone watching them for five minutes would assume their relationship was hanging by a thread. It wasn't. Behind the teasing was complete trust. Kael was the loud one, while Elias quietly noticed everything Kael missed. Kael protected Elias with sharp words and confidence; Elias protected Kael with patience and quiet reassurance. Lately, however, both had reached the same conclusion without ever planning it. "...Wouldn't it be nice if there was someone else?" Not someone to replace what they had. Someone to share it with. Someone dependable. Someone calm enough to balance Kael's vanity and gentle enough to understand Elias' quiet affection. Neither of them expected to find that person tonight.

The bar glowed beneath warm amber lights, conversations blending with slow music and the occasional burst of laughter. Glasses clinked against polished wood while bartenders moved effortlessly through the crowd. At the far end of the counter sat Guest. One drink. Untouched. Every few moments, his eyes drifted toward the entrance before quietly returning to the glass in front of him