CYNTM CHAPTER 60

Hunter exhaled and reached out to touch Winston’s finger. At first, he brushed his fingertip, but then, without hesitation, he grasped it firmly and led him toward the hotel. It felt like he was guiding Winston home, and a wave of accomplishment washed over him.

Hunter no longer cared about taking a bath. The last twenty-four hours had been too dramatic, like a dream. He pulled back the quilt and lay on one side of the bed, leaving a large space for Winston. As he listened to the sound of Winston undressing, his nerves tingled—not out of fear, but from the heightened awareness of the other man.

Winston settled beside him, and soon the bedding was infused with his scent. It was a subtle, mature fragrance of men’s body wash and aftershave.

Winston turned on his side and reached out toward Hunter, but Hunter felt a flutter of nerves. Remembering Winston’s formidable strength, he instinctively burrowed deeper into the quilt. Winston’s arm paused in mid-air before he turned away, leaving Hunter with a sense of disappointment.

This wasn’t the first time they’d shared a bed—Austria, the hot springs in Noboribetsu, and Dubai—but this time, Hunter felt a sense of distance between them. He gradually edged closer to Winston and wrapped his arms around him from behind. The moment he tightened his embrace, he could clearly feel Winston’s shoulders stiffen. Winston lifted his hand and cautiously placed it over Hunter’s, as though fearing that even a gentle squeeze might cause Hunter to pull away.

Hunter suddenly felt guilty.

It wasn’t just guilt; it was an overwhelming urge to cherish Winston. Winston had always appeared rational and strong, with a clear vision of his goals and a determination to achieve them. And Hunter was the one Winston had fought so hard to win over.

The one who felt lost and uncertain was Hunter himself.

Hunter rested his forehead gently against Winston’s back.

“Hunter, do you still like me?” Winston asked.

“Yes.” Very much, very much so.

Even though he had been scared enough to run away, his heart was irresistibly drawn to this person.

“Don’t avoid me.”

“Then… then stop thinking about sleeping with me all the time…” Hunter’s ears reddened. Having sex with someone… moreover with someone of the same sex had shattered his worldview completely!

“It’s instinct. I can’t help thinking about it. But I won’t force you, as long as you don’t avoid me.”

Hunter naturally knew that whatever Winston said, he would certainly do. He suddenly felt more at ease than before. “Okay.”

After Hunter spoke, Winston turned to face him. In the darkness, what Hunter couldn’t usually discern in those calm eyes now became perfectly clear. Hunter snuggled closer, and Winston wrapped his arms around him, placing his chin on Hunter’s forehead with a soft sigh.

“Why are you sighing?” Hunter asked, listening to the rhythm of Winston’s heartbeat.

“Because when you ran away, I thought… how am I going to get you back?”

“Did you really like me from the first time you saw me?”

“In this lifetime, yes. From the first time I met you, I liked you.”

“But I don’t believe in love at first sight.”

“I’ve been watching you for a long time, so this isn’t love at first sight.”

Winston’s response was so natural that Hunter couldn’t help but smile.

“I’ve watched you a lot too… Now that I think about it, every time I saw you, I really liked you!”

Hunter’s heart leaped, surprised by his own words as they tumbled out.

Winston’s lips curled up, looking both restrained and sexy. Hunter had never imagined that one casual remark could make someone else so happy.

That’s right. What am I being stingy about? This man likes me, and I care about him too. What could be more perfect? Of course… there was just one small issue left between them.

For some reason, he was so overjoyed that he couldn’t sleep.

Hunter tilted his chin and gently kissed Winston’s lower lip. Winston immediately kissed back, but instead of the frantic, uncontrollable feeling from before, he was trying his best to restrain himself, making everything gentle.

Winston sucked on Hunter’s lips and licked his tongue, each time leading Hunter’s breath. One of Winston’s hands circled Hunter’s neck, his fingers tenderly cupping the back of his head and weaving into his hair. All of it made Hunter’s heart race.

Without thinking, Hunter reached up and grabbed Winston’s collar, tugging him closer like a child demanding candy. His reaction made Winston kiss even deeper. He hugged Hunter tightly as his tongue entwined with Hunter’s and licked his teeth.

Hunter closed his eyes and made a soft “hmm.” His hand on Winston’s collar shifted to hug him tightly. Winston’s tongue teased him, brushing lightly against Hunter’s upper lip before retreating.

Hunter chased after it, gently pressing his lips against Winston’s. He rolled on top of Winston, pinning his shoulders, and mimicking Winston’s movements, licking at the seams of his lips and teeth, searching for his tongue. Once he found it, he sucked hungrily.

Winston raised his hands, allowing Hunter to continue kissing and sucking, until Hunter suddenly seemed to realize something. He pulled back and met Winston’s gaze, and only then did Winston wrap his arms around him.

Nervousness fluttered through Hunter’s stomach. It was the first time he had initiated a kiss… His whole body suddenly felt hot, and he swallowed with a gulp. Thankfully, they hadn’t turned on the light; otherwise, Winston would surely notice his red ears.

Winston’s breath was hot, and he slowly lifted his knees to support Hunter. Hunter felt like he was sitting on Winston’s lap, wrapped in his embrace.

“So… you like it this way…”

Winston’s voice resonated amidst the breaths, carrying an irresistible allure, like someone who had finally found an exit after groping in the dark for a long time.

“What?”

“Nothing…” Winston lifted his head slightly and kissed Hunter’s lips. “I’ll treat you gently and not be so hasty anymore. I’ll coax you properly in the way you like.”

“I’m not a woman! What do you mean, treat me gently! I’m not a child! I don’t need you to coax me!” Hunter grumbled.

Despite his complaints, something deep inside Hunter stirred, and every word Winston uttered seemed to resonate more clearly in his heart.

“Of course, you’re not a woman, nor an immature child.” Winston caressed Hunter’s back, speaking in his usual serious tone, “—You are my king.”

It was as if someone had struck Hunter hard, causing a crack to open in his chest.

“I’ll bite you to death!”

Hunter gritted his teeth, knowing full well that this guy was seducing him, just as he always had. He kissed Winston’s face and bit his nose. Winston chuckled and dodged, kissing Hunter’s ear instead. The laughter was low and restrained, yet highly seductive.

Hunter’s shoulders shrugged, and Winston pressed his cheek against his. Even without light, Hunter knew Winston was smiling, the kind of smile an adult has for a child. Yet, Hunter didn’t feel the slightest bit angry.

The mix of joy and comfort made Hunter sleepy. He raised his hand to embrace Winston, pressing his face against his chest. He intended to nuzzle for a bit, but Winston’s chest gently rose and fell like the sea at night, making Hunter want to stay there forever. Gradually, Hunter’s breathing slowed. Winston tilted his head to touch Hunter’s head with his chin.

“Hunter?”

Winston’s voice was soft, as though soothing nerves, and Hunter had no desire to open his eyes.

“… Mm…”

Winston reached out to pull the quilt over both of them, then pressed a tender kiss to the top of Hunter’s head.

 

The next morning, Hunter’s interview was scheduled for the afternoon, while Winston’s was in the morning. When the alarm rang, Winston opened his eyes to find Hunter sleeping soundly on top of him. He gently supported Hunter, intending to place him back on the bed. At that moment, Hunter’s eyelids fluttered open, and he propped himself up on Winston’s shoulders and sat up.

“Hmm… good morning…”

“Morning. I have to head back to the team.” Winston kissed Hunter’s nose. “You can keep sleeping.”

“Mm.” Hunter moved and realized he was sitting on Winston. He quickly tried to climb off, but Winston held his waist and slowly lifted him off.

“Sleep a bit more.”

Winston pulled the quilt over Hunter and got up to grab his jacket. The jacket swirled half a circle in the air before his arm smoothly slipped into the sleeve. Hunter, wide awake now, propped himself on his elbows, watching Winston’s back.

“What’s up?” Winston asked, turning to face him.

“Nothing.”

“I’ll wait for you at the press center… After your interview, should we grab dinner together?”

“Okay.” Hunter nodded.

As Winston left the room, the door clicked shut behind him. Hunter threw off the quilt and walked over to the window. Half a minute later, he spotted Winston stepping outside. When Winston suddenly turned his head back, Hunter quickly ducked out of sight. After a few seconds, he peeked out again, watching as Winston walked further away.

What happened last night? Hunter had confessed his feelings! Winston had said he liked him too! Winston had even kissed him! That kiss was damn intense! At that moment, he felt as though he was being devoured by Winston. Now thinking back… it was actually exciting!

Hunter was shocked at his own thoughts.

Winston had liked him for a long time. All this time, Winston had approached him with intention; every act of patience and companionship stemmed from his feelings. Even yesterday, after Hunter had tried to run away, Winston hadn’t done anything to him! So there was nothing to be afraid of. If Winston wanted to force him, then they’d just have to fight it out! Let’s see who knocks who out!

An inexplicable excitement surged through Hunter, making him want to run around the room!

Despite having only a few hours of sleep, Hunter felt as awake as if he’d downed ten cups of coffee. His heart was racing! He jumped back onto the bed, wrapping himself tightly in the quilt. It still felt warm, as though Winston’s body heat lingered. Ah! He had slept on top of Winston all night, and Winston hadn’t pushed him off! So awesome!

Time flew by, and before Hunter realized it, noon had arrived. He had lunch with the team, checking his phone countless times but seeing no messages from Winston. This left him feeling a little disappointed, but he reminded himself that Winston’s interview might not be over yet. As he ate a spoonful of black truffle mushroom soup, his phone vibrated in his pocket. He quickly pulled it out.

Winston’s message made Hunter’s heart skip a beat: Having lunch?

Hunter: Yeah. How about you?

Winston: About to go eat.

Hunter pursed his lips, staring at his phone screen. An idea flashed through his mind. He knew this man liked him, knew what he wanted to do, knew that he would hold back for fear of hurting him. This made Hunter want to be mischievous.

His fingers flew over the keyboard: But I like licking your lips and biting your tongue more.

After sending the message, Hunter cut a large piece of steak and put it in his mouth.

The PR manager came over to confirm the interview questions with him one last time. “Hunter, just be yourself, don’t be nervous, and smile more. Fans love seeing you smile.”

“Mm, got it!”

“Just don’t get too tense!” The PR manager was still worried that Hunter might freeze up from nerves.

“Oh, don’t worry! Even if I get too nervous to speak, the audience and media will understand!” Hunter took a big spoonful of mashed potatoes.

“Good! Keep this up! You’re doing great!”

The PR manager left, and Hunter quickly pulled out his phone.

Huh? Still no reply from Winston? Was it because Winston had started eating?

Even as Hunter changed into the suit he was going to wear to the press center, Winston’s text still hadn’t come.

Fine… maybe he got caught up with other reporters.

Hunter and his racing team met with the production crew, who were all busy handling the final preparations. The host this time was Mr. Cacho, a well-known commentator in the F1 world.

Cacho and Hunter went over the entire set of interview questions multiple times. Though Hunter had initially claimed he wasn’t nervous, he was now starting to feel the pressure.

This was different from the media interview when Marcus was around or the time he was interviewed by Audrey. This was a televised interview with a live audience.

“Hey Hunter, don’t worry. If you forget something or can’t think of an answer on the spot, I’ll help you, okay?”

“Thank you, Mr. Cacho.” Hunter unconsciously tugged at his collar.

With ten minutes left before the program started, Hunter decided to go to the restroom.

The hallway was filled with staff, and Hunter took a deep breath. He almost missed the restroom when someone suddenly pulled him aside. He turned his head to see Winston dressed in a sharp suit.

Hunter was taken aback, but Winston pulled him closer, almost into an embrace. With people bustling around them, Winston leaned in and whispered in Hunter’s ear, “I didn’t have enough for lunch.”

“Huh? Where did you eat?”

“I want to lick your lips and bite your tongue,” Winston repeated the message Hunter had sent him in a soft, slow voice.

“Hey!” Hunter’s heartbeat seemed to be caught by the faint smile on Winston’s lips as if it was slowly being pulled out of his chest.

Winston placed his hand lightly on Hunter’s waist, looking at him as if he were the most beloved child. Just then, someone entered the restroom. Winston’s hand on Hunter’s waist tightened, pulling him closer. Hunter stumbled forward as Winston steadily retreated, taking only two steps to move them into an adjacent stall. Winston extended his leg, nudging Hunter, and used his foot to close the stall door. As the door locked with a click, Hunter suddenly felt tense.

“What… what are you planning to do?” Hunter unconsciously stepped back and leaned against the door.

Winston tilted his head and smiled, “What are you thinking? What could I do to you here? Your resistance is so strong that if you open the door, the media will think we’re fighting.”

“So what are you planning…”

Hunter had barely parted his lips when Winston leaned in. The speed took him completely by surprise, and before he could react, Winston’s lips were on his.

Unlike the overwhelming intensity of their first kiss, this one was gentle. The soft suction made Hunter’s shoulders rise, and he instinctively leaned in closer.

Winston’s tongue brushed against Hunter’s before sliding away, brushing across his upper palate and gliding through his soft mouth. Then, Winston’s tongue curled around Hunter’s, only to withdraw again in an instant. Hunter instinctively followed after it. Just as Winston’s tongue was about to pull back, Hunter hurriedly chased his lips. At that moment, his tongue was lightly bitten.

It was as if all his thoughts had been churned up and blood was rushing everywhere, threatening to burst through his veins. Hunter took a breath and opened his eyes to look at Winston.

Winston smiled and kissed his lips. “Go, your interview is about to start.”

So this was the “lick your lips and bite your tongue”. Hunter suddenly didn’t want to leave anymore.

Winston gently pressed his forehead against Hunter’s eyebrow. “See… You don’t need to be afraid of me. I won’t hurt you. I won’t devour you.”

Hunter felt as if he had been hypnotized, thinking that Winston’s heat and madness from the previous day were mere illusions.

“Mm”

Just then, the other person washed their hands and walked out of the toilet. Winston held the door open for Hunter to exit.

The interview was about to start. Hunter sat across from the host, Mr. Cacho. The live audience was seated, and the cameras were ready. Hunter took a breath and glanced up to see Winston sitting at the farthest end of the audience. Though barely illuminated by the lights and not in a prominent spot, Hunter spotted him instantly.

Cacho opened the show with his usual smooth charm, building the audience’s anticipation for Hunter. He recapped Hunter’s journey from his entry into Formula One to his steadily rising ranks, showcasing several of his iconic overtakes.

As Hunter watched the large screen, his expression turned to one of surprise. The clips were skillfully edited together and set to music that stirred excitement.

Pointing at the screen, Hunter said, “Is that… really me? Are you sure you didn’t mistakenly cut in some other driver’s performance?”

“We are very professional and wouldn’t make such mistakes,” Mr. Cacho replied extremely seriously.

Hunter touched his neck in astonishment and whispered, “Aiya… I’m really handsome!”

Although he spoke softly, it was loud enough for Mr. Cacho and the front row of the audience to hear. Everyone burst into laughter.

“You are indeed very handsome,” Mr. Cacho laughed.

This interview focused less on professional topics and more on Hunter growing up. When the discussion turned to his upbringing, his father inevitably came up. The mention of his father in this context made Hunter feel awkward and even a bit tense. The PR manager had meticulously prepared a script for him, one he remembered well, but now he suddenly didn’t want to follow it.

He looked toward where Winston was sitting. Winston met his gaze, and his look was different from all the other eyes on him. Steady, strong, yet also calm, as if just by locking eyes with Winston, Hunter could face everything in his past with calm assurance.

“Initially, I was prepared to portray my father as a tragic hero who made me confident and brave but was ultimately defeated by his own failures… However, upon reflection, I realized he was just like any other father. He loved me, and even at the most stressful times in his career, he was always there for me.”

Hunter spoke of his childhood, and how his father had tried many different ways to help him build confidence and overcome his stuttering in stressful situations. Some of the stories were funny, making the audience laugh along with him. Others were touching, bringing tears to the eyes of several fathers in the audience.

Finally, when he spoke about his father’s passing, Hunter said, “I don’t regret smashing all my dad’s liquor. I only regret not doing it sooner. He thought he was a total failure, but if he had just been a bit stronger, he could have seen the person I am today. Wasn’t I… worth being his life’s achievement?”

As Hunter’s voice echoed, the audience fell silent with emotion. Mr. Cacho suddenly started clapping loudly, prompting a rousing applause from everyone present.

“I really appreciate honesty and unrehearsed answers. Hunter’s response was completely different from what he had prepared to tell me. I prefer this simple and genuine story much more. Now that we’ve talked about your father, let’s move on to your closest friend in the F1 world, Vann Winston. Many in the media know that when Vann Winston is interviewed and asked about Evan Hunter, he is always willing to say a few extra words. I won’t ask about how you two met or what interesting things have happened between you because many fans already know thanks to Audrey Wilson’s in-depth interview. For F1 fans, twelve years ago was the era of Owen and Ciel. Before this season began, Owen hinted at retirement, which worried fans about losing a focal point. But then Winston emerged as a sharp blade, and you gradually followed, making everyone see that a new golden era is coming.”

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The author has something to say:

Hunter: I want to lick your lips and bite your tongue.

Winston: Really… I want to lick your (beep—), thrust into your (beep—).

Hunter: …No… no romance! Bad review! Bad review! Bad review!