Page 332 of Scarbound

Noeul’s face fell, but Duri continued.

“Because that would make you leave carrying another burden.” His hand remained against Noeul’s cheek. “So go.”

Noeul stared at him.

“Go wherever you need to go. See whatever you need to see. Find out who Jung Noeul is when none of us are standing around telling you.” A faint smile touched Duri’s lips. “And if one day you decide you want me…”

His green eyes held Noeul’s.

“Come find me.”

Noeul’s tears finally spilled.

“If I ever get the chance to be with you, I want you to come back because you want me. That’s all.”

Noeul lowered his gaze. “Then you have to let me go.”

Duri exhaled, sharp and shaky. “I know.”

Noeul stared at him.

Duri held out his hand. “Let me take you to the airport.”

Noeul looked at that hand for several seconds before placing his own inside it. “Okay.”

The city stretched past them in streaks of light as Duri’s SUV cut through the night. Noeul fidgeted in the passenger seat, his leg bouncing uncontrollably.

“So,” Duri said eventually, forcing brightness into his voice. “Where to first?”

“Japan,” Noeul replied. “Tokyo. Mount Fuji. Onsen.” His eyes softened. “I’m not just looking for a place. I’m looking for peace.”

“That’s a good choice,” Duri said. “Some of my best memories are there.” After a pause, he added, “And after that?”

Noeul looked through the window at the city disappearing behind them. “I want to travel.”

“Where?”

“I don’t know yet.” A small smile appeared. “Wherever I feel like going.”

“Shouldn’t you tell your family first?”

“I should,” Noeul admitted. “But if my mom cries, I won’t leave.”

“And Ji-Woo is going to kill us both.”

Noeul grimaced. “I know.”

“You’re the one telling him.”

“Of course.”

“I’m not taking responsibility for this.”

“Coward.”

Duri laughed.

“How long?” he asked after a while.