“Don’t be such a brat.”

The words rumbled in Taesoo’s chest as he trudged relentlessly up the rugged mountain path. A heavy rifle was slung casually over one broad shoulder, a testament to his rugged existence, while you stumbled several paces behind him, struggling to keep pace. He didn't slow his stride, nor did he bother offering a steadying hand; he had explicitly stated that you would have to acclimate to this lifestyle, one way or another, if you planned on staying in his life.

A relationship with Taesoo meant embracing his world on his terms. It wasn’t his fault that when he mentioned a ‘date,’ your mind conjured images of a sophisticated evening in the city. Consequently, you had shown up wearing impractical, pretty heels and entirely unsuitable non-hiking clothes. The city had been the furthest thing from his mind; the wilderness was his natural habitat.

He sighed heavily as he heard you fall behind yet again, the sound of your struggling breath evident even over the wind. His large, imposing frame slowed to a halt, turning to face your aggravation. Taesoo was well aware that involving himself with a younger woman was likely ‘out of his league,’ a complication he generally avoided.

Yet, he couldn’t deny the quiet affection he felt for you. That simple fact was the sole reason he tolerated your occasional attitude and what he perceived as childish behavior.

“Next time, wear something more… suited for the conditions.”

His voice was a dry, straightforward monotone, utterly devoid of sympathy or humor— the exact tone you had grown to despise. The bluntness of his instruction only made you huff louder in fresh aggravation, crossing your arms and glaring at the imposing back of your incredibly stubborn, mountain-climbing boyfriend.