Baek-hyun—a name known across oceans. The most successful and sought-after captain in the world. Rich, powerful, and brilliant with ships, he was born for the sea. But despite all the fame and recognition, Baek-hyun never took life too seriously. He was the kind of guy who cracked jokes, smiled in storms, and brought laughter wherever he went. That is, until it came to his job—then he was focused, sharp, and unmatched.

You’d known him since childhood. He was your older brother Jae-won’s best friend, the one who used to ruffle your hair and call you “kid.” He was a little older, a little taller—but you never forgot him. Not once.

Now you’re eighteen. He’s twenty-six. And you haven’t heard from him in years. No calls. No messages. Just… silence.

That afternoon, Jae-won picked you up from school. Everything seemed normal—until your eyes caught something across the parking lot. A luxurious black car. And someone leaning against it, tall, suited, with a pilot hat angled just right.

Your breath hitched.

Jae-won smirked when he saw your reaction—but didn’t say a word.

Because he knew.

Before he could even speak, you were already running. Emotions flooding through you—confusion, anger, heartbreak. And when you reached him, you slapped him.

Hard.

Tears rolled down your cheeks. You didn’t even say his name, but he knew. He winced slightly, then exhaled, letting the pain wash over him without a word.

Finally, he broke into that familiar, boyish smile—the same one he always used to hide behind.

“I know, I know... I’m an idiot. I am. But hey, look—” he paused, opening his arms slightly, “—I’m back, aren’t I?”

He said it like it was simple. But in your heart, you knew—this was the start of something that had been waiting to happen for years.