The Number One Star in the Interstellar Era [BL]

Everything that had just happened a moment ago still felt so surreal to him. No matter how much he questioned himself, wondering if it indeed happened, the answer was still the same. The fact that he came rushing into his room to hide like some kid proved just how real it was.

So... Reas really...

Like him?

At that thought, he felt his whole face burning. Metaphorically, of course. But considering how hot it was, it might as well be really on fire. It's all Reas' fault for throwing him such a curveball.

He thought that he would just spend today leisurely with the other. Eating and sharing stories about the things that happened to them in the time they hadn't seen each other.

That's why he chose this villa, instead of his apartment suite at the city center. Here, they could relax while looking outside the wide windows and just appreciating nature.

But now, because of that sudden confession, there's no relaxing happening today for sure. How could he even think of relaxing when his heart was still beating like it's being chased by a psycho murderer?

Lauren groaned in frustration and just buried his face on the pillows once again. Maybe he should have just let Chris stay. Then none of this would have happened. And he would still have his relaxing day.

But did he really want that? Did he truly wish that today's events would vanish into oblivion? After a quick introspection, the answer was a hard 'no'.

Although he was flustered by the sudden confession, he didn't feel bad about it. In fact, he felt unprecedented... excitement. His mind raced, and he couldn't help but replay the moment over and over.

A warm, unfamiliar sensation spread through him, a mix of nervousness and exhilaration. It was as if a spark had ignited something deep within him, something he hadn't realized was there. Every glance, every word from that confession, seemed to echo in his mind, filling him with a sense of wonder.

Did this mean he shared the same feelings as Reas? That he liked him in that way? Honestly, he couldn't say 'yes' with certainty. What he did know was that he couldn't simply categorize Reas as just a friend.

They started off on the wrong foot. But they still managed to understand each other's differences and become friends. As time passed and they got to know more of each other, Reas slowly became more than just a friend. But now the boundaries of that relationship seemed to blur.

When his heart began to slowly calm down and Lauren's mind became much clearer, he realized at this moment was that what he needed most was time. The time to fully process everything. He had to explore what these feelings truly meant without rushing to conclusions. Because that's the respectful thing to do. For both his and Reas' sake.

Besides, didn't Reas also say that he's still not fully in love with him? That he was somehow halfway there? At least, that's what he understood from what the other had said earlier.

Thinking back, wasn't there a big problem with that statement?

Lauren sat up, his mind now completely clear and focused. After feeling all the sweetness and warmth of Reas' confession, now he had to douse himself with cold water. Shouldn't he feel more unsettled when someone admitted they were halfway in love with him? But his stomach was filled with butterflies instead. Was it just a problem with his comprehension, or was he simply that easy?

Admitting that it's the former meant that he's stupid, but admitting that it's the latter was simply not an option.

He frowned and just stood up. Since this all started because Reas wanted to clear his misunderstandings, then there should be no problem with him clearing a bit more.

He walked out of his room, ready to confront Reas. But his walk, that was full of determination, slowed down the closer he got to the kitchen. It's because of the wonderful smell that's wafting from there.

A delightful aroma filled the air, emanating from the pots and pans bubbling on the stove. The scent was warm and inviting, carrying with it hints of savory spices and fresh herbs. The comforting fragrance enveloped him. With each inhalation, he could almost taste the richness of the food simmering just beyond reach, enticing him further into the kitchen.

Before he knew it, he was already standing just a few steps away from Reas.

The other must have already heard his footsteps, because he said without looking back;

"Have you calmed down? Perfect timing. I'm nearly finished cooking."

Hearing Reas' calm tone irritated Lauren. His calmness returned once again. He didn't respond to the other and just sat down on one of the bar stools. Then he waited until Reas finished cooking.

He didn't have to wait long and after just a few minutes, Reas had turned off the stove and turned around. Now the two of them were facing each other.

Reas seemed to read something in his expression, because he asked, "Do you have any questions for me?"

"I do, in fact."

Reas removed the apron he's wearing and walked forward to sit beside Lauren. "Then I'll try my best to answer it."

Lauren tried his best not to lean back. It would be too embarrassing if he ended up falling from his seat after he set such a serious atmosphere. He cleared his throat and looked at the other.

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"You mentioned your feelings are halfway there, suggesting they're not fully developed yet. What would you do if that's the extent of your feelings for me? And what if I end up falling for you much more deeply than you do for me? That's what I wanted to know. Please give me an honest response."