Chapter Text
Sumilip ang sikat ng araw sa sheer white curtains ng kanilang bedroom, nagbibigay ng dreamy glow sa magulong kama nila. Unang nagising si Mingyu, at sa totoo lang, wala siyang balak bumangon. Sino ba namang gaganahan bumangon kung ganito kaganda ang view paggising mo? he thought, looking at Wonwoo. Ang dulo ng kanilang kama ay puno ng mga Christmas shopping bags at isang maliit, dekoradong Christmas tree sa corner na nagbibigay ng mainit na kislap sa silid.
Agad niyang hinigpitan ang yakap sa lalakeng payapang natutulog sa dibdib niya, ang suot nilang matching red flannel pajamas ay nagpapadama ng lalong init. Lord, thank you talaga sa biyaya, bulong niya sa isip. "Woo... gising na," sabi niya, pero ang totoo, gusto lang niyang mang-asar. Nag-iwan siya ng mga basang halik mula sa panga ni Wonwoo hanggang sa likod ng tenga nito.
Wonwoo turned around in the circle of Mingyu’s arms, his eyes bright and full of a peace he never found at eighteen. Mingyu immediately shifted, hovering over him, supporting his weight on his elbows. He just stared, his eyes wandering over every inch of Wonwoo’s face as if he were memorizing a masterpiece he had waited a lifetime to see.
"Ang ganda mo," bulong ni Mingyu, boses ay paos pero puno ng paghanga. Inabot niya ang mukha nito, ang hinlalaki niya ay dahan-dahang hinahaplos ang kilay ni Wonwoo, ang dulo ng ilong nito, hanggang sa tumigil ito sa labi ni Wonwoo. Konti na lang, Kim Mingyu, makakaltukan ka na nito sa sobrang korni mo, pero seryoso, sobrang ganda niya talaga. "Sobrang ganda mo, Woo. Minsan hindi ako makapaniwala na akin ka talaga."
"I'm yours, Gyu. I've always been yours, pero please five more minutes" sagot ni Wonwoo bago hinila ang batok ni Mingyu para pagtagpuin ang kanilang mga noo.
Ay, gumanon siya. Lord, ‘wag niyo muna ako kunin, marami pa kaming plano, isip ni Mingyu habang naglalandian sila sa tahimik na silid. Nagpapalitan sila ng mga bulong, mahihinang kagat sa balikat, at tawanan.
"Uy, kunwari tulog," biro muli ni Mingyu. Ginamit niya ang ilong niya para kilitiin ang pisngi ni Wonwoo, passing through his temple down to his jaw. "Kiss mo muna ako, tapos bibigyan kita ng ten minutes."
"Ang kulit..." bulong ni Wonwoo, boses ay paos pa rin. Pilit niyang idinilat ang mga mata niya, those beautiful feline eyes that always seemed to see right through Mingyu’s soul. He looked so soft, so vulnerable, and so incredibly loved.
Dahan-dahang itinaas ni Wonwoo ang mga kamay niya para haplusin ang batok ni Mingyu, pulling him down just enough. "Isang kiss lang, ha? Then let me sleep again."
"Depende kung gaano kasarap 'yung kiss," hirit pa ni Mingyu bago tuluyang pinagtagpo ang kanilang mga labi.
It started as a chaste, lingering touch—a soft press of lips that tasted like mint and the warmth of a long-awaited December morning. Pero dahil si Mingyu ito, hindi siya nakontento. He deepened the kiss, his tongue tracing Wonwoo’s bottom lip, asking for permission that Wonwoo was more than happy to give.
Napasinghap si Wonwoo, and ang antok na kanina lang ay pilit niyang pinanghahawakan ay tuluyan nang naglaho. He kissed Mingyu back with a desperate kind of tenderness, his fingers tangling into the thick locks of Mingyu’s hair. For a moment, the world outside—their son, the kitchen, the Christmas responsibilities—didn't exist. There was only the sound of their synchronized breathing and the feeling of being finally, completely home.
Mingyu pulled back just an inch, his lips still brushing against Wonwoo’s. Grabe, Wonwoo. You really are the strongest force of attraction, he thought, his heart swelling with a pride that only a man in love could understand.
"So... five more minutes?" bulong ni Mingyu, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
Wonwoo let out a breathless laugh, wrapping his arms around Mingyu’s neck to pull him down for another round. "Make it ten, Gyu. Make it ten."
Mingyu didn’t need to be told twice. As they dived back into another kiss, his hand slid down from Wonwoo’s cheek, tracing the line of his side hanggang sa tumigil ito sa bewang ni Wonwoo. He squeezed the soft skin there, pulling him flush against his body.
Wonwoo let out a sharp, involuntary whimper against Mingyu’s lips—a sound that was part surprise and pure reaction to Mingyu’s touch, his head spinning.
Mingyu pulled back just enough to see the flush on Wonwoo’s face, a smug, mischievous grin spreading across his lips.
"Alam mo, Woo... sa ganda ng gising natin, parang gusto ko na atang sundan si Luhan," biro ni Mingyu, his eyes twinkling with pure mischief.
Wonwoo’s eyes widened, and he immediately slapped Mingyu’s shoulder playfully. "Kim Mingyu, umagang-umaga kung ano-ano pinagsasabi mo! Kahit anong gawin natin, hinding-hindi ako mabubuntis. Lalaki ako, baka nakakalimutan mo?
Mingyu just laughed, a deep, vibrating sound that Wonwoo felt in his own chest. He didn't let go; instead, he peppered Wonwoo’s face with more kisses, acting like a giant, clingy puppy.
"Wala namang masamang sumubok, 'di ba?" Mingyu teased, dodging another playful slap. "Malay mo, dahil Pasko naman, baka makuha sa dasal. Baka ma-break natin ang laws of biology para sa'yo."
"Baliw! Physics ang inaral natin, hindi Biology! Tumigil ka nga!" Wonwoo was laughing now, his whole face lit up with the kind of joy that made the entire dream feel like a masterpiece.
"Practice makes perfect kaya!" Mingyu countered, pinning Wonwoo down with his weight and burying his face in his neck, tickling him until Wonwoo was breathless from laughter. Kahit hindi ka mabuntis, Woo, hinding-hindi ako mapapagod 'galingan' para sa'yo araw-araw, Mingyu thought, his heart fuller than it had ever been.
Ang tawanan ay dahan-dahang napalitan ng malalim na paghinga. Mingyu’s gaze darkened with a different kind of intensity—yung tingin na nagsasabing hindi sapat ang isang lifetime para mahalin si Wonwoo. He leaned down, capturing Wonwoo’s lips again, but this time, the kiss was slow, hungry, and full of the heat. Wonwoo’s hands found their way into Mingyu’s hair, pulling him closer as they moved in a rhythm that felt like a silent conversation.
"Gyu..." Wonwoo whispered against his lips, breathless and shaky. "Mahal kita. Sobrang mahal kita."
"I know, Woo. I know," Mingyu murmured, his voice thick with emotion as he trailed kisses down to Wonwoo's jaw. "And I'm never letting you go. Not in this life, not in any other. Akin ka lang, 'di ba?"
"Sayo lang," Wonwoo replied, his eyes fluttering shut as he pulled Mingyu back for more. "Always."
In that moment, Mingyu hovered over him, his heart pounding against his ribs. "Physics partner, remember? Static equilibrium. Balanced forces. Pero bakit kapag kasama kita, feeling ko palagi akong nahuhulog?"
Wonwoo let out a soft, airy laugh, his fingers tracing the mole on Mingyu's nose. "Kasi ikaw 'yung gravity ko, Gyu. You're the only thing that keeps me grounded."
"Then let me fall with you, Woo," Mingyu whispered before drowning out any more words with a kiss that felt like a promise kept.
Sa loob ng silid na iyon, tila huminto ang mundo. They shared whispers, soft whimpers, and the kind of intimacy that was only meant for the two of them. They made love like they were trying to make up for every second they spent apart in every other life they weren’t together—making a "miracle" that didn't need biology, just their souls finally intertwining without fear.
Isang oras ang lumipas, Wonwoo was lying limp and breathless on the messy sheets, his skin glowing under the morning sun. Mingyu, on the other hand, looked like the happiest man alive.
"I'm hungry," Wonwoo pouted, his voice a faint, sweet whisper. "Kasalanan mo 'to, Kim Mingyu. Naubos energy ko."
Mingyu chuckled. Cute. "Don't worry, my love. Your chef is here." He scooped him up—blanket and all—bridal style.
Before Wonwoo could protest, Mingyu scooped him up—blanket and all—bridal style. Wonwoo let out a surprised yelp, instinctively clinging to Mingyu’s neck as they left the bedroom.
"Gyu! Kaya ko naman maglakad!"
"Shut up, Woo. Special delivery ka hanggang kitchen," Mingyu teased, carrying him down the stairs. As they reached the kitchen—their kitchen, decorated with pine garlands and warm fairy lights—Mingyu finally set him down, but he didn't let go. He trapped Wonwoo between his arms and the marble counter, nuzzling into his hair while they swayed in a silent rhythm to a jazz version of 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.'
"Gyu, stop na," Wonwoo giggled, gently pushing Mingyu’s chest. "I need to cook breakfast for the baby. Gigising na si Luhan any minute now."
Mingyu groaned. Nagseselos talaga ako sa sarili kong anak minsan. "Paano naman ako? Ako 'yung original baby mo, 'di ba? Bakit si Luhan na lang palagi?"
Wonwoo laughed, cupping Mingyu’s cheeks with that gentle, grounding touch that Mingyu could never get enough of. "Oo na, baby rin kita. I’ll tend to you later, okay? But si Luhan muna." He pulled Mingyu down for a sweet kiss, but Mingyu deepened it, pouring all his love into it.
He pulled Mingyu down for a sweet, lingering kiss to pacify him, but Mingyu—ever the greedy one—tilted his head and deepened it, pouring all his love.
"Gyu... stop na talaga," Wonwoo whispered breathlessly, pulling back just an inch while his hands remained on Mingyu’s chest. He looked at Mingyu with a teasing glint in his eyes. "Tsaka, naka-isa ka naman na kanina, 'di ba? Sobra na 'yun for a morning."
Mingyu’s grin widened, his arms tightening around Wonwoo’s waist. Naka-isa? As if sapat na 'yun. "Isang beses pa lang naman 'yun, Woo. Marami pang oras. Tsaka, if I remember correctly, holiday break mo na diba? wala ka namang work for today."
Wonwoo froze for a second, realization hitting him. "Wait—how did you—"
"I checked your planner yesterday," Mingyu teased, leaning in close until their noses brushed. "So, technically, you're all mine today. After mapakain si Luhan, wala ka nang kawala sa akin."
"Kim Mingyu! Ang daya mo!" Wonwoo laughed, his face turning a bright shade of pink. Plano niya talaga 'to.
"Hindi ako madaya, wais lang," Mingyu whispered, stealing another quick kiss. "Kaya bilisan mo na mag-luto, para matapos na kumain si Luhan at makabalik na tayo sa 'business' natin."
"Ehem!"
Agad silang naghiwalay. Nakita nila si Luhan sa paanan ng hagdan, kinukuskos ang mga mata habang yakap ang stuffed fox niya. "Papa Wonwoo... bakit niyo po kinakain 'yung mouth ni Papa Mingyu?"
Namula nang husto si Wonwoo, mabilis na humarap sa kalan at nagkunwaring sobrang busy sa niluluto. "Ah... baby, may... may dumi lang kasi sa lips ni Papa Mingyu. Tinanggal lang ni Papa, okay? Go to the table na, malapit na maluto 'yung Christmas pancakes!"
Nice save, Woo. Galing talaga, baby, Mingyu thought, suppressing a laugh. He walked over to his son, picking him up and throwing him over his shoulder like a sack of rice. "That’s right, anak! Very dirty kasi lips ni Papa Mingyu, buti na lang cleaning expert si Papa Wonwoo. Tara, tignan natin 'yung mga gifts sa ilalim ng tree habang hinihintay natin 'yung pagkain!"
Matapos ang almusal, magkatuwang nilang binihisan si Luhan para sa Christmas party sa school. Mingyu was chasing him around for his shoes while Wonwoo packed his bag. In the car, they held hands over the gear stick—a simple, quiet happiness they once thought was impossible.
Nang maihatid na nila ang bata sa gate ng school at matapos ang sunod-sunod na "I love you" at "Have fun, anak," naiwan ang dalawa sa loob ng kotse, pinapanood ang maliit na pigura ni Luhan na pumasok sa loob.
"He really has your eyes, Woo," biglang sabi ni Mingyu, breaking the comfortable silence.
Wonwoo looked at him, smiling softly. "And he definitely has your energy. Pagod na ako, Gyu. Alas-otso pa lang ng umaga."
Mingyu laughed and leaned over to kiss Wonwoo’s temple. "That’s why we’re going home to do nothing but cuddle. Treat natin sa sarili natin."
Pagdating sa bahay, sinalubong sila ng katahimikan na hindi nakakatakot, kundi nakaka-relax. It smelled like the vanilla candles Wonwoo loved and the pine-scented garland. Dumiretso sila sa sofa, at gaya ng nakagawian, si Mingyu ang sumandal at si Wonwoo naman ang pumuwesto sa pagitan ng mga binti nito, isinisiksik ang sarili sa dibdib ng asawa.
Mingyu started playing with Wonwoo’s fingers, admiring the way their wedding rings looked together under the morning light. "Alam mo, minsan naiisip ko... what if naging duwag noon?" bulong ni Mingyu.
Wonwoo looked up, his chin resting on Mingyu’s chest. "Bakit mo naman natanong?"
"Wala lang. Napaisip lang ako bigla habang nagda-drive tayo," Mingyu sighed, his thumb stroking Wonwoo's knuckles. "Naalala mo pa ba 'yung araw na sinabi mo sa'kin na magta-transfer ka na?"
Mingyu’s expression darkened, the memory still feeling like a heavy weight on his chest even in this dream. "Sobrang bigat noon, Woo. Yung tipong pagkasabi mo sa akin na aalis ka na, pakiramdam ko tumigil yung ikot ng mundo ko. I spent the whole night staring at the ceiling, crying like a kid because I realized I was losing the only person who made me feel alive. I was so scared na baka huli na ang lahat."
Wonwoo’s eyes softened, his gaze turning distant as he remembered the same night from his perspective. "Alam mo ba, Gyu... noong gabing 'yun, wala na talaga akong balak pumasok kinabukasan. Wala na rin akong balak mag-transfer sa ibang school."
"I was planning to end it all that night," Wonwoo confessed, his voice a mere whisper but heavy with the truth of his past. "The bullying was too much, the silence at home was deafening, and I thought... if I’m leaving anyway, why not just leave for good? I had the letters ready."
Mingyu felt a chill run down his spine, hugging Wonwoo closer as if he were afraid the man would disappear. "Woo..."
"But then," Wonwoo continued, his voice soft as he traced the patterns on Mingyu’s palm. "I heard footsteps. Mabilis, mabigat, na parang may humahabol sa akin. Noong lumingon ako, nandoon ka. I really didn't expect you to follow me, Gyu."
Mingyu’s heart skipped a beat as the memory flooded back—the cold night air, the burning in his lungs, and the sheer terror of seeing Wonwoo’s back getting further and further away.
"Akala ko kasi hahayaan mo na lang akong mawala," Wonwoo whispered, leaning his head back against Mingyu’s shoulder. "After all the times you ignored me, after the silence in the hallways... I thought I wasn't worth the trouble of fighting for. I thought you were relieved na aalis na ako para hindi ka na madamay."
"Woo, hinding-hindi ko magagawa 'yun," Mingyu choked out, his grip tightening. "The moment I saw you walking away with that look in your eyes, yung tingin na parang wala ka nang balak bumalik... hindi ako makahinga. All I knew was that if I let you walk out of that gate without saying anything, I'd lose you."
"Nagulat ako noong hinila mo yung braso ko," Wonwoo laughed softly, a tear finally escaping. "You were crying harder than I was. Hinihingal ka pa, tapos paulit-ulit kang humihingi ng tawad habang nakahawak sa akin. Sabi mo, 'Sorry... sorry kung naging duwag ako. Sorry kung hinayaan kitang mag-isa. Bati na tayo.'"
Mingyu’s heart clenched at the memory. I was so pathetic that night, he thought, pero ‘yun ang pinakatamang ginawa ko sa buong buhay ko.
"You followed me not just to say goodbye, but to tell me that the silence was over," Wonwoo whispered, his eyes searching Mingyu’s. "Na hindi mo na ako kakalimutan o ikakahiya kahit kanino. That sorry was the loudest thing I ever heard, Gyu. It broke me, but it also fixed everything."
Natawa nang mahina si Mingyu, hinalikan ang noo ni Wonwoo. "Kaya nga noong college, bumawi talaga ako, 'di ba? Kahit magkaiba tayo ng major, halos sa library na ako natutulog mabantayan lang kita."
"Oo, ang kulit mo kaya noon," pag-alala ni Wonwoo habang nakangiti. "Naalala mo nung first year tayo? Simula nung nalaman mo 'yung totoo tungkol sa parents ko, naging matigas ka na rin. Sabi mo, hinding-hindi tayo aasa sa kanila. It felt like you literally stole me away from that house."
Natawa si Mingyu, pero may halo itong emosyon. "Seryoso ako noon, Woo. Sabi ko sa sarili ko, hinding-hindi na kita ibabalik sa lugar na sumisira sa'yo. Kahit wala tayong pera, basta mailayo lang kita sa kanila. I literally took you away from that place without looking back."
"Pero ang pinaka-cliché talaga," Wonwoo laughed, poking Mingyu’s nose. "Yung graduation confession mo. Grabe, Kim Mingyu! Sa harap ng maraming tao, may pa-banner ka pa? Ang korni mo talaga! Halos magpalamon na ako sa lupa sa sobrang hiya."
"Hoy, effort 'yun!" depensa ni Mingyu habang tumatawa. "At least alam ng buong batch na akin ka na. Tsaka, mas malala naman 'yung sa dorm. Muntik na tayong ma-kick out dahil sa'yo!"
"Anong dahil sa akin? Ikaw kaya ang biglang humila sa akin sa hallway!" ganti ni Wonwoo. "Naalala mo 'yun? Inabutan tayo ng floor manager na naghahalikan sa hallway ng dorm. Sobrang lapit na nating mapalayas noon, buti na lang magaling kang mambola ng admin."
"Kasi naman, hindi ko na mapigilan noon eh. Ang ganda-ganda mo habang dala-dala mo 'yung mga books mo," Mingyu grinned, pulling Wonwoo closer. "At 'yung time na muntik na tayong bumagsak sa Physics dahil imbes na mag-aral, mas inuna nating mag-date sa rooftop? Tawa lang tayo nang tawa habang tumatakbo palayo sa guard."
Wonwoo let out a genuine giggle. "Physics partner kita pero ako lagi gumagawa ng lab report dahil busy ka kakatitig sa akin. Sabi mo 'Inaaral ko lang 'yung Force of Attraction sa pagitan natin, Woo.' Ang korni mo talaga kahit kailan."
"Pero effective naman, 'di ba?" Mingyu nudged him playfully. "Kasi tignan mo tayo ngayon. Hindi lang lab report ang natapos natin, pati 'tong pangarap nating buhay."
Wonwoo shifted his weight, burying his face in the crook of Mingyu’s neck for a moment before looking up at him with eyes full of sincerity. "Thank you, Gyu. Seryoso."
"Para saan?" Mingyu asked, brushing a stray strand of hair from Wonwoo’s forehead.
"For everything. For being brave enough to take me away from that life," Wonwoo whispered. "Kahit may kaya ang mga pamilya natin, pinili mong maghirap kasama ako para lang hindi na tayo umasa sa kanila. We worked double shifts, nag-ipon tayo kahit barya-barya lang noon... but you never made me feel like I was a burden. Thank you for giving me a home where I finally feel safe."
Mingyu felt a lump in his throat, pulling Wonwoo closer. "I didn't give you a home, Woo. We built it together. Ikaw ang rason kung bakit may 'tahanan' ako."
Lord, sana ganito na lang kami habambuhay, Mingyu thought, burying his face in Wonwoo's neck. Walang lungkot, walang kulang. Just this warmth.
"Grabe," Wonwoo muttered, nudging Mingyu’s side habang pinagmamasdan ang kabuuan ng sala nila. "Seryoso, Gyu. Look at this place. You have made it possible, Daddy. Naka-angat-angat na talaga ang Daddy namin ni Luhan, 'no?"
Natawa nang malakas si Mingyu, sabay panggigigil na pinisil ang ilong ni Wonwoo bago ito binigyan ng sunod-sunod na nose kisses. "Ayan ka na naman sa 'Daddy' na 'yan, baka hindi tayo makaakyat sa kwarto niyan, sige ka.”
Anak ng... bakit ba ang ganda niya kapag nanunukso? Mingyu’s heart hammered against his ribs. Isang "Daddy" pa, Jeon Wonwoo, kakalimutan kong nasa sala tayo.
"Bakit?" Wonwoo teased, his hands sliding up to Mingyu’s chest, feeling the steady thumping of his heart. "Matanda ka na ba? Baka sumakit na likod mo bago pa tayo makarating sa itaas?"
"Matanda? Gusto mo bang i-demonstrate ko sa'yo kung gaano kalakas ang 'Daddy' mo?" Mingyu leaned in, his voice dropping into a playful whisper. "Kaya kong mag-stairs nang buhat ka, tapos may energy pa ako para sa tatlong rounds. Baka ikaw ang sumuko, Woo."
Sige, hamunin mo pa ako, Mingyu thought mischievously.
Wonwoo let out a breathless laugh, his face turning a shade of crimson. "Yabang.”
I’d give up everything just to keep this smile on your face forever, Mingyu’s thoughts softened, his gaze lingering on Wonwoo’s lips.
"Salamat, Woo," Mingyu whispered, his voice cracking slightly with emotion. "Salamat dahil dumating ka sa buhay ko. Salamat dahil binigyan mo ako ng pagkakataong mahalin ka... at mahalin mo rin ako pabalik. I promise you, hinding-hindi ko sasayangin ang bawat segundo na kasama kita. I will protect this peace we built until my last breath. Hinding-hindi na kita hahayaang masaktan ulit."
Wonwoo’s expression softened, his eyes reflecting the same depth of devotion. "Gyu..."
Mingyu kissed Wonwoo's palm, his heart swelling with a mix of pride and devotion. "I’ll follow you anywhere, Woo. Kahit sa kabilang buhay pa. Susundan at susundan kita."
Dahan-dahang binaligtad ni Mingyu ang posisyon nila. In a swift but gentle move, he flipped Wonwoo over so they were facing each other, his large frame hovering protectively over Wonwoo’s lean body. Inabot niya ang mukha ni Wonwoo, his hands trembling slightly as he caressed those sharp yet soft features—the jawline he adored, the bridge of the nose he loved to boop, and the eyes that held his entire universe.
"Mahal na mahal kita, Jeon Wonwoo," Mingyu whispered, his voice thick with a raw, honest devotion. "Higit pa sa buhay ko. Ikaw lang ang sentro ng mundo ko."
Wonwoo didn't answer with words; instead, he pulled Mingyu’s neck down, meeting him in a kiss that tasted like forever. It was a slow, deep, and soul-searing kiss—the kind that anchored them both to the present, erasing every ghost of the past.
"Mmm, Gyu..." Wonwoo eventually pulled back, a playful glint returning to his eyes as he breathed heavily. "Sobrang seryoso mo naman. Akala ko ba may business pa tayong tatapusin. Puro ka drama eh."
Mingyu barked out a laugh, his eyes narrowing mischievously. Ah, ganon? Hinahamon talaga ako nito. "Ah, so gusto mo ng action? Sige, bibigyan kita ng action."
Bago pa makakilos si Wonwoo, mabilis na kiniliti ni Mingyu ang bewang nito, making Wonwoo shriek and squirm on the sofa.
"Mingyu! No! Hahaha! Tama na!" Wonwoo shouted, his legs kicking as he tried to escape. "You giant puppy, let go!"
"Ayaw!" Mingyu laughed, shifting his attack. He pinned Wonwoo’s wrists above his head with one hand while the other continued to tease, trailing from Wonwoo's ribs down to his hips. He leaned down, blowing raspberries against Wonwoo's neck until Wonwoo was a breathless, giggling mess.
"G-gyu... enough! I surrender!" Wonwoo gasped, his chest heaving.
Mingyu stopped, but he didn't pull away. He let his hand rest flat against Wonwoo’s stomach, his palm warm against the thin fabric of Wonwoo's shirt. His expression shifted, the mischief fading into a heavy, longing gaze.
"Alam mo, Woo... kahit joke lang kanina, seryoso ako," Mingyu whispered, his voice dropping into a husky, intimate tone. "I have this... secret. I keep fantasizing about it. Seeing you with a baby bump, carrying a piece of us inside you. Gusto kitang makitang naglalakad sa bahay na 'to habang hinahaplos ang tiyan mo. I’d serve you hand and foot. Strawberry milk sa madaling araw, foot rubs paguwi mo... lahat gagawin ko."
He leaned closer, his breath warm against Wonwoo's skin. "I want to see you glowing because of our baby. Feeling those tiny kicks against my palm habang nakayakap ako sa'yo sa gabi. It’s the most beautiful thing I can imagine."
Wonwoo’s laughter softened, replaced by a stunned, flustered silence. He looked at Mingyu, seeing the raw desire and the domestic dream in those puppy-like eyes.
"Grabe ka," Wonwoo whispered, his face burning. "Seryoso ka talaga sa biology-defying dream na 'yan? Never kong na-imagine na 'yung sweet, mahiyain, at laging sunod-sunuran na Kim Mingyu nung high school... ay ganito pala ka-freak."
"Freak?" Mingyu grinned, unbothered, as he started trailing kisses down Wonwoo's jawline. "I prefer the term 'dedicated.' Tsaka, ikaw ang may kasalanan nito. You make me want everything with you, even the impossible."
"You were so innocent back then," Wonwoo teased, his fingers tangling in the hair at the nape of Mingyu’s neck. "Yung lalakeng supplier ko ng strawberry milk... look at you now. Ang dami mong alam na kalokohan."
"Matagal na akong hindi innocent pagdating sa'yo, Woo," Mingyu murmured, his hand sliding lower, his touch possessive yet tender. He captured Wonwoo’s lips in a kiss that wasn’t playful anymore—it was deep, demanding, and hungry.
Mingyu pulled back just enough to look into Wonwoo’s dazed eyes, his thumb brushing against Wonwoo’s swollen lower lip. He glanced at the small Christmas tree flickering in the corner of their room, then back to the man in his arms.
"Alam mo ba kung anong isinulat ko sa wish list ko para kay Santa ngayong taon?" Mingyu whispered, his voice dropping into a low, teasing rumble that sent shivers down Wonwoo's spine.
"Ano na naman 'yan, Kim Mingyu?" Wonwoo breathed out, his heart hammering against his ribs.
Mingyu leaned in close, his lips grazing the shell of Wonwoo’s ear. "Wala akong ibang hiningi kundi ang mabuntis ka. Isang milagro lang naman, 'di ba? Sabi ko, 'Santa, please, let me see Wonwoo carrying our baby.' You know, some Christmas miracle."
Mingyu’s hand moved from Wonwoo’s stomach, sliding under the hem of his shirt to feel the bare, smooth skin of his waist. He squeezed the soft flesh there, pulling Wonwoo closer until their bodies were perfectly flushed together on the sofa.
"Gyu... mmm..." Wonwoo whimpered his name, the sound caught in the back of his throat as Mingyu’s kisses moved to the sensitive spot just below his ear. Wonwoo’s back arched instinctively, his breath hitching as Mingyu’s hands explored further. "Gyu, tama na muna..."
Mingyu pulled back for a second, smirking at the dazed, needy look on Wonwoo's face. "Sabi ko sa'yo, hindi kita tatantanan hangga't hindi natutupad ang wish ko."
He took Wonwoo’s left hand, bringing it up to his lips. Mingyu’s eyes never left Wonwoo’s as he pressed a slow, lingering kiss against the gold band on Wonwoo's ring finger, the metal cool against his lips but the gesture burning with heat.
"I promised you, 'di ba?" Mingyu whispered against his skin, his voice vibrating with a resolve that went deeper than any joke. "Na hinding-hindi ko na hahayaang maranasan mo 'yung impiyerno na pinagdaanan mo noon. I will nurture this family, Woo. I'll grow our world until it's so big and so safe that nothing can ever hurt you or Luhan again."
He leaned down, peppered Wonwoo’s jaw with light, biting kisses that made Wonwoo gasp. "I’ll keep you safe, even from yourself if I have to. Ako ang magsisilbing bakod niyo. Bastion mo ako, Woo. Always."
"Gyu... m-masyado ka nang seryoso," Wonwoo whimpered, his breath hitching as Mingyu’s hand traveled from his waist to the small of his back, pulling him so close their hearts were beating against each other.
"Seryoso naman talaga ako," Mingyu teased, his lips grazing Wonwoo's earlobe. "Seryoso akong safe ka sa akin... pero hindi seryosong magrerelax lang tayo ngayong umaga. In fact, I’m planning to keep you up until you can’t even remember your own name."
"Kim Mingyu! Ang kalat mo!" Wonwoo laughed, a sound of pure joy that ended in a soft moan when Mingyu captured his lips again, deeper and more possessive this time.
Mingyu suddenly scooped Wonwoo up in his arms, standing up effortlessly. "Puppy pala ha? Well, this puppy is hungry, and it’s time to head upstairs before Luhan decides to come home early for his fox."
Wonwoo let out a breathless, melodious laugh, his fingers tightening in Mingyu’s hair. "Grabe ka talaga magselos sa sarili mong anak, Gyu."
"Kahit na," Mingyu murmured against his lips, stealing a deep, lingering kiss that made Wonwoo’s toes curl. "Sabi mo kanina, Daddy mo ako, 'di ba? O ayan, it's time for the Daddy to have his way with the Mama. No interruptions. No little feet running around. Just us."
"Gyu! Ibaba mo ako! Baka mahulog tayo!" Wonwoo was giggling and shouting at the same time, his hands hitting Mingyu’s chest playfully while he clung on for dear life.
"Hindi kita ibababa! Sabi mo 'business,' 'di ba? O ayan, aakyat na tayo para matapos na 'to bago umuwi si Luhan!" Mingyu teased loudly, his laughter echoing through the halls of their home. Wonwoo just buried his face in Mingyu’s neck, his shoulders shaking with laughter and pure happiness.
Ang mga tawa nila ay unti-unting napalitan ng mga pigil na ungol at mabibigat na paghinga habang paakyat sila ng hagdan. Hindi na hinintay ni Mingyu na makarating sila sa kama; bawat baitang ng hagdan ay nilagyan niya ng marka ng halik sa leeg ni Wonwoo, na tila ba bawat hakbang ay isang panata na hinding-hindi na siya bibitaw.
Nang marating nila ang master bedroom, agad na isinara ni Mingyu ang pinto gamit ang kanyang paa, nilock ito, at dahan-dahang ibinaba si Wonwoo sa gitna ng malambot nilang kama na amoy vanilla at pine. Ang tanging liwanag sa loob ay ang kislap ng mga Christmas lights na nakapulupot sa bedpost, nagbibigay ng mainit na kulay sa balat ni Wonwoo na dahan-dahang namumula sa ilalim ng titig ni Mingyu.
"Gyu... ang ingay mo," bulong ni Wonwoo, pilit na tinatakpan ang bibig habang si Mingyu ay abala sa pag-alis ng kanyang matching pajamas. "Baka marinig tayo ng mga kapitbahay, nakakahiya."
"Hayaan mo sila, Pasko naman," sagot ni Mingyu, ang boses ay malalim at paos habang dahan-dahang gumagapang paitaas para muling angkinin ang mga labi ni Wonwoo. "Tsaka, sinasabi ko lang naman sa buong mundo kung gaano kita kamahal. Is that a crime?"
Hindi na nakasagot si Wonwoo dahil nilamon na ng init ang bawat salitang balak niyang sabihin. Sinulit nila ang bawat segundo ng katahimikan ng bahay habang ang tanging naririnig na lang ay ang marahas na paghinga at ang kalansing ng mga wedding rings na nagtatama.
"Gyu... ahh... m-masyado..." Wonwoo whimpered, his back arching as Mingyu moved against him with a rhythmic, steady cadence. Bawat paggalaw ni Mingyu ay tila isang deklarasyon ng pag-aari—isang mabigat at seryosong friction na nagpapadilim sa paningin ni Wonwoo.
Sa loob ng isip ni Wonwoo, sa gitna ng naghahalong sarap at emosyon, humihinga siya ng pasasalamat. Lord, salamat, bulong niya sa kanyang puso. Salamat dahil pinatibay Mo ako noon. Salamat dahil sa dilim ng buhay ko, pinadala Mo si Mingyu para maging liwanag ko. Salamat sa pamilyang ito... at salamat sa lalakeng 'to na hinding-hindi ako binitawan.
Napapikit siya nang mariin, at ang kanyang mga kuko ay bumaon sa balikat ni Mingyu. He felt every inch of Mingyu, the sheer size and presence of him filling Wonwoo up in a way that made him feel whole, safe, and utterly cherished. Salamat din po... for this... for how Mingyu makes me feel so loved—for his quirks—kahit imposible, he thought with a dazed, heated blush. For the way he loves me, for his strength... for everything he is.
"Suko na agad ang Mama?" Mingyu teased, his voice a husky, dark rumble against Wonwoo's ear. He didn't stop, instead, he ground his hips deeper, finding that perfect angle that made Wonwoo’s toes curl.
Sa bawat tulak at bawat ungol na lumalabas sa bibig ni Wonwoo, Mingyu was praying. Lord, Santa, kahit sino pa ang nakikinig d'yan... salamat, he thought, his eyes squeezed shut as he felt the overwhelming warmth of Wonwoo’s body. Salamat sa milagrong ito.
Mingyu bit Wonwoo's earlobe playfully before sucking on the sensitive skin of his neck. "Sabi ko sa'yo, 'di ba? We're going to make a Christmas miracle."
"Please, let this moment last," Mingyu pleaded silently, his heart hammering against his ribs.
"Mingyu... please... f-faster..." Wonwoo sobbed out, his hands reaching behind him to grab at Mingyu’s damp hair, pulling him closer. He needed more. He needed to feel every inch of the man who had become his entire world.
"In a rush, baby?" Mingyu whispered, smirking even as his own breath became ragged. He shifted, pulling back almost entirely before sliding back in with a slow, agonizing depth that made Wonwoo let out a high-pitched, broken cry. "There. Right there. Just say it, Woo... and I’ll give you exactly what you’re begging for."
"G-gyu... please... ahh! Gyu!" Wonwoo’s voice broke as Mingyu finally let go of his restraint. The room was filled with the frantic sound of skin hitting skin and the rhythmic thud of the headboard against the wall. Mingyu leaned down, capturing Wonwoo’s lips in a kiss that tasted like salt and desperation, their tongues tangling in a dance as wild as their bodies.
Thank you for this light, Mingyu thought one last time, a tear escaping as he buried his face in Wonwoo's neck. Thank you for the family we have. Thank you for being mine.
Mingyu’s hands were everywhere—pinning Wonwoo’s wrists, then sliding down to grip his hips, keeping him in place as he drove into him with a hungry, possessive force. "Mahal kita... mahal na mahal kita, Wonwoo..." Mingyu gasped out, his forehead pressed against Wonwoo’s as they both reached the peak of their shared universe, a blinding explosion of white and warmth that felt like a Christmas miracle in itself.
Wonwoo could only cling to him, his chest heaving, his fingers digging into Mingyu’s broad back as the world slowly stopped spinning. They stayed like that for a long time—entwined, breathless, and finally at peace.
"I love you, Woo... so much," Mingyu gasped, burying his face in Wonwoo’s shoulder as they reached the peak of their shared universe. "Merry Christmas, my life."
Wonwoo could only cling to him, his fingers digging into Mingyu’s broad back, eyes fluttering shut as he tried to catch his breath. "Merry Christmas... Daddy," he teased weakly, making Mingyu growl and pull him back for a lingering, possessive kiss.
Wonwoo could only cling to him, his chest heaving, feeling the heavy, pulsing heat of Mingyu inside him as the world slowly stopped spinning. Salamat, Gyu, Wonwoo thought as he drifted into the afterglow. Salamat sa pagligtas sa akin.
Lumipas ang oras na tila ba nakikisama ang tadhana. Nanatili silang nakabalot sa isa't isa, hinahayaan ang pawis na matuyo habang pinapanood ang pagsayaw ng mga anino sa kisame.
"Kailangan na nating bumangon," Wonwoo finally whispered, checking the clock. "Two hours na lang, susunduin na natin si Luhan. At kailangan ko pang i-marinate 'yung ham para sa Noche Buena."
"Five more minutes," Mingyu groaned, tightening his hold around Wonwoo's waist and nuzzling into the crook of his neck. "Ang sarap mong yakapin, lalo na kapag ganitong malamig ang panahon."
"Kim Mingyu, kanina ka pa five minutes nang five minutes," tawa ni Wonwoo, pero hindi rin siya kumalas. "Sige na, last five minutes. Pagkatapos, tutulungan mo ako sa kusina. Ikaw ang mag-aayos ng table at maglalagay ng mga dekorasyon sa labas. I want this Noche Buena to be perfect for Luhan."
"Everything is already perfect, Woo," Mingyu looked up, his eyes softening as he stared at his husband. "Kasi naito ka. Nandito si Luhan. 'Yun lang, sapat na."
Dahan-dahan silang bumangon, nag-asaran pa habang nagbibihis, at sabay na bumaba sa kusina. Habang abala si Wonwoo sa paghahanda ng pagkain, si Mingyu naman ay nagsimulang mag-ayos ng mga Christmas crackers at wine glasses, paminsan-minsang ninanakawan ng halik si Wonwoo habang dumadaan. Ang bahay nila ay napuno ng amoy ng nilulutong ham, queso de bola, at ang tamis ng pagsasama na minsan ay akala nila ay mananatiling panaginip na lamang.
Matapos ang masayang kulitan sa kusina at ang pag-aayos ng mesa, biglang nabulabog ang tahimik na sulyap ng mag-asawa nang marinig ang mabilis na yabag at ang malakas na pagbukas ng kanilang front door.
"Papa Wonwoo, Papa Mingyu! I'm home po!" sigaw ni Luhan habang patakbong pumasok sa loob, bitbit ang kanyang paboritong stuffed fox. Kasunod niya si Jeonghan, ang malapit nilang kaibigan na siyang nag-volunteer na maghatid sa bata matapos ang Christmas party nito.
Agad na tumakbo si Luhan patungo kay Wonwoo, pero bago pa siya makalapit, napansin ng bata ang bawat hakbang ng kanyang Papa. Bahagyang papilay at maingat ang bawat galaw ni Wonwoo—ang kanyang mga binti ay tila nanlalambot pa rin mula sa matinding "business" nila ni Mingyu sa itaas. Tuwing hahakbang siya, bahagya siyang napapahawak sa likod ng silya para balansehin ang sarili.
"Papa Wonwoo!" Biglang huminto si Luhan, ang kanyang maliit na boses ay puno ng pag-aalala. "Bakit po kayo ganyan mag-walk? Masakit po ba legs niyo? Did you fall down po?"
Hindi pa nakakasagot si Wonwoo nang mapansin ni Jeonghan ang sitwasyon. Isang malapad at mapang-asar na ngisi ang gumuhit sa mukha nito habang tinitignan si Mingyu na prenteng nakasandal sa counter.
"Hala, Wonwoo! Anyare sa'yo? Parang hindi ka na makalakad nang diretso ah?" hirit ni Soonyoung, sabay tawa nang malakas. "Mingyu, grabe naman. Pasko na Pasko, pinag-marathon mo ba 'tong asawa mo? O baka naman gumawa kayo ng 'Christmas miracle' ng ang aga-aga?"
"Kuya, tumigil ka nga!" namumulang saway ni Wonwoo, habang si Mingyu ay tumatawa lang at kinakamot ang batok.
"Daddy! Si Papa Wonwoo po hurt siya!" Tuluyan nang bumagsak ang mga luha ni Luhan, akala ay seryoso ang sitwasyon. Bigla siyang lumuhod sa harap ng kanilang Christmas tree, nag-daop ang maliliit na kamay habang nakatingin sa itaas. "Santa! Please po! Huwag na po 'yung robot na gift ko! Heal Papa’s legs na lang po! Please, Santa, make my Papa Wonwoo walk straight again!"
Mingyu let out a loud, boisterous laugh, leaning against the kitchen counter while wiping his hands with a towel. "Anak, okay lang si Papa. Napagod lang siya sa 'work' namin kanina. Malakas 'yan si Papa Wonwoo, 'di ba?"
"Kim Mingyu, tumigil ka!" Namumula ang mukhang saway ni Wonwoo bago binalingan ang anak. "Baby, listen to Papa. I'm fine. Napagod lang ako kaka-ayos ng gamit sa taas. Look, I can even carry you!"
"Work mo mukha mo!" bulong ni Wonwoo, kahit na ang totoo ay hindi niya mapigilan ang ngiti habang nilalapitan sila ni Mingyu para buhatin si Luhan at patahanin.
Agad na lumapit si Mingyu at binuhat ang humihikbing bata, inilagay ito sa kanyang balikat habang kinikiliti sa tagiliran. "Don't worry, little fox. Papa Wonwoo is just 'recharging.' By tonight, he’ll be fine. Let’s go help him with the table instead, okay? Para mas mabilis siyang gumaling!"
Lumipas ang hapon na puno ng asaran—lalo na't hindi tumigil si Jeonghan hanggang sa makaalis ito. Ang sala ay nababalot na ngayon ng mainit at gintong liwanag mula sa Christmas tree habang tumutugtog ang mga carols. Si Luhan, matapos ang iyak at pag-aalala, ay muling sumigla at nagsimulang sumayaw sa gitna ng rug, matching the rhythm of the music with his silly little wiggles.
He was doing a silly little wiggle, spinning around until he was dizzy, matching the rhythm of the music. Mingyu was cheering him on, clapping his hands. "Galingan mo, anak! Mana ka talaga kay Papa—full of energy!"
Wonwoo sat beside Mingyu on the sofa, his head resting on Mingyu’s shoulder. He felt a deep sense of peace watching their son. As the clock ticked closer to midnight, the sugar rush finally faded, and Luhan curled up between them. His head was on Wonwoo’s lap and his feet were tucked under Mingyu’s thigh, fast asleep before the feast even started.
"He's perfect," Wonwoo whispered, tracing the sleeping child’s cheek.
"He's the best thing we ever built together," Mingyu replied, kissing the top of Wonwoo's head.
Nang mag-alas dose, dahan-dahan nilang ginising si Luhan. "Baby... gising na. It's Christmas! Time for the gifts!"
Agad na nagliwanag ang mukha ng bata. Ang Noche Buena nila ay naging masaya at maingay. Habang kumakain ng glazed ham at pasta, hindi nawala ang pang-aasar ni Mingyu.
"Alam mo Luhan, sabi ko kay Santa kanina, sana bigyan ka niya ng baby brother next year," hirit ni Mingyu sabay kindat kay Wonwoo.
"Kim Mingyu! Kumain ka na nga lang!" biro ni Wonwoo, kahit na ang totoo ay kinikilig siya sa ideya.
Matapos ang kainan, lumipat sila sa ilalim ng puno. Luhan’s eyes went wide as he opened his gifts—the books he wanted and the big robot he had been praying for. "Thank you, Papa! Thank you, Daddy! This is the best Christmas ever!"
Nang makatulog na muli si Luhan, naiwan ang dalawa sa tapat ng bintana, pinapanood ang tahimik at maniyebeng kalsada sa labas. Mingyu pulled Wonwoo into a back hug, his strong arm
"Alam mo, Woo..." Mingyu whispered, his voice thick with sincerity. "I look at our son, I look at this house, and I look at you... and I just thank the Heavens every single day for giving me the bravery to run after you that night at the school gate."
He tightened his grip, resting his chin on Wonwoo's shoulder. "I didn't even realize back then that I was saving a gentle soul. I just knew I couldn't let you go. I’m so glad I was brave enough to fight for us."
Wonwoo turned around in Mingyu's arms, his eyes shimmering with tears of pure joy. Ten years ago, he thought his life was over. Now, he was standing in the arms of the man who gave him everything.
"You didn't just save me, Gyu. You gave me a life I never thought I deserved. I couldn't ask for anything more. We have our miracle."
They shared a slow, meaningful kiss under the mistletoe—a kiss that carried the weight of a decade of love, bravery, and the beautiful family they had finally built together.
Humiwalay nang bahagya si Mingyu, isang pilyong ngisi ang muling sumungaw sa kanyang mga labi habang pinupunasan ang luha sa pisngi ni Wonwoo. "So... since Pasko naman, and gumaling na ata 'yung legs mo... round two sa taas?"
"Kim Mingyu! Ang bastos mo talaga!" Wonwoo laughed, hitting Mingyu’s chest with his palm, though he didn't pull away from the warmth.
"Joke lang!" Mingyu chuckled, pulling him back into a tight embrace, burying his face in the crook of Wonwoo’s neck. "Pero seryoso, Woo... ready na ako mag-overtime para sa magiging baby brother o sister ni Luhan. I mean, we’ve been talking about it, 'di ba? Adopting another little one to complete the pack?"
Wonwoo’s expression softened, his hands locking behind Mingyu’s neck. "Adopting again, Gyu? Sigurado ka na ba? Baka mamaya niyan, si Luhan pa lang, sumusuko na 'yung likod mo."
"Kahit ilan pa, Woo," Mingyu teased, lifting Wonwoo’s chin. "Imagine another one running around. Maybe a girl this time? Isang maliit na version mo na kasing-sungit mo rin kapag hindi pa nakaka-kape? I’d be the happiest guy alive. I’ll work double time, triple time—basta mapuno natin 'tong bahay natin ng tawa niyo."
"Gyu, ang korni mo!" Wonwoo hid his face in Mingyu’s chest, his heart doing somersaults. "Pero sige... pag-isipan natin after the holidays. For now, focus muna tayo kay Luhan."
"Korni pero kinikilig ka," Mingyu teased, his voice dropping into that low, intimate tone that always made Wonwoo’s knees weak. He leaned in, his nose brushing against Wonwoo's. "So... since 'healing' naman ang theme natin dahil kay Luhan... maybe we can 'test', you know…upstairs? For research purposes lang, love. To see if your legs are truly back to 100%."
"Stop it! Baka magising si Luhan!" Wonwoo whispered-shouted, his face now a permanent shade of red.
"Tulog na 'yun, napagod kakahiling kay Santa na gumaling 'yung legs mo," Mingyu whispered. "So... are we going to make the most of this quiet night or what? I'll even let you be the boss... for the first ten minutes."
Wonwoo let out a soft, defeated sigh, a small smile playing on his lips. "Fine. Pero ikaw ang maglilinis ng kusina bukas ng umaga. No excuses."
"Deal! I'll clean the whole house, just give me you," Mingyu cheered, his laughter vibrating against Wonwoo’s chest. He had just reached the second step of the stairs, Wonwoo’s legs wrapped securely around his waist, when the sound of a door creaking open made them both freeze.
"Papa Wonwoo?"
The soft, sleepy voice echoed from the hallway above. There stood Luhan, dragging his stuffed fox by the ear, his hair a messy nest and his eyes half-closed.
"Baby? Bakit gising ka pa?" Wonwoo hisse
Mingyu let out a frustrated, pained groan, but slowly lowered Wonwoo to his feet. Just as Wonwoo’s toes touched the ground, his knees buckled slightly—a lingering reminder of their earlier "activities"—and he had to grab Mingyu’s arms to stay upright.
"I had a bad dream po," Luhan mumbled, walking toward them with tiny, heavy steps. He stopped at the top of the stairs, looking down at them with big, pleading eyes. "And... and I checked Papa’s legs. I want to make sure Santa really healed them. Can I sleep with you? Please?"
Wonwoo’s heart melted instantly, his parental instincts overriding everything else. "Of course, baby. Come here."
Mingyu, on the other hand, looked like his soul was leaving his body. He looked at the bedroom door, then at his wife, then back to the toddler who had just successfully cockblocked him for the third time this week.
"Anak... safe na legs ni Papa, promise. Very strong na siya," Mingyu tried one last time, his voice a mix of desperation and affection. "Ayaw mo ba sa bed mo? It has the cool blankets!"
"No po. I want to be in the middle," Luhan insisted, already reaching his arms out for Mingyu to carry him.
Mingyu let out a heavy sigh, but he couldn't help the smile that tugged at his lips as he scooped Luhan up. "Fine. You win, little fox. Pero dapat tulog agad, ha? No stories about foxes for tonight."
"Okay po, Daddy!" Luhan chirped, hugging Mingyu’s neck tightly.
Wonwoo followed them up, glancing at Mingyu’s defeated expression and giggling softly. As they all piled into the large king-sized bed, Luhan immediately claimed his spot right in the center, holding both of their hands.
"Well, I guess no more of what you are wishing for tonight, Gyu," Wonwoo teased, whispering across Luhan’s sleeping form.
Mingyu leaned over, stealing a quick, chaste kiss from Wonwoo’s forehead since Luhan was now a literal human barrier between them. "Next time, Woo. Next time, ibu-bribe ko na 'yang si Jeonghan na i-overnight si Luhan sa kanila."
From: Wonwoo
Hindi ko akalain na aabot ako sa ganitong edad na ganito kasaya. I used to think the world was a cold, equations-based place where I didn't fit. But Mingyu proved that even the most broken variables can create a perfect solution. Looking at Luhan, I see a future I never thought I’d have.
There was a time when I was certain my story would end at eighteen. I can still feel the ghost of that cold night wind at the field, the weight of the keys in my pocket, and the hollow silence in my chest. I thought life was just a series of bruises—those from the bullies and the ones on my soul left by a family who looked at me but never truly saw me. I was ready to let go, convinced that the world wouldn't even notice a missing piece like me.
But then, Mingyu ran. He broke every law of my cynical Physics by being the force that pulled me back when I was already falling. He took the broken, terrified boy I was and showed me that I wasn't a burden to be discarded but a treasure to be protected.
I’m not just a survivor anymore; I’m a father, a husband, and a person who is deeply, unconditionally loved. Every time Luhan calls me 'Papa,' a piece of my old trauma heals. Every time Mingyu holds my hand, the scars of eighteen years of loneliness fade a little more.
I swear to myself and to the two lives held in my hands tonight: I will be the antithesis of the blood that raised me. Luhan will never know the hollow chill of an empty house or the suffocating ache of being unheard. I will pour so much light into this home that the shadows of my past will have nowhere left to hide. I will be the sanctuary I was always denied.
Lord, thank you for this life. Thank you for the boy who ran and for the man who stayed. This—this messy, loud, beautiful family—is my greatest masterpiece.
From: Mingyu
Watching them sleep, I realize that bravery isn't just about big gestures or running after someone at a field. It’s about the everyday choice to stay, to build, and to love even when it’s chaotic. I’m the luckiest man in the world. I have a husband who is my soulmate and a son who is my joy.
I remember how thin and fragile Wonwoo looked that night at the field. I remember the terror of thinking I was seconds too late to save the most precious soul I’d ever known. Since that day, my only mission was to make sure he never felt that cold again. Seeing him now—warm, safe, and smiling in his sleep—is the only reward I’ll ever need.
Pero Lord, Santa... or kahit sino pang santo ang naka-duty ngayong Pasko... can we talk about the cockblocking? Pang-atlong beses na 'to ngayong linggo! I was this close to a Christmas miracle of my own! Akala ko talaga magkaka-milagro na sa taas, pero biglang sumulpot ang anak ko sa pinto. My soul literally left my body nung makita ko siya. Hustisya naman para sa priorities ko! Minsan talaga napapaisip ako kung anak ko ba talaga 'to o spy ni Jeonghan para bantayan ang purity ng bahay na 'to. If this happens again, promise, ipapa-Lalamove ko talaga 'tong batang 'to kina Jeonghan para doon mag-stay ng isang linggo!
And about my pregnancy agenda... Lord, alam ko namang Biology says 'No,' at "Impossible" ang nakasulat sa textbook, pero 'yung puso ko kasi—at 'yung hormones ko—sumisigaw ng "Wonwoo Buntis!" Is it too much to ask for a little girl na kamukha ni Wonwoo? Isang mini-Wonu na may salamin din, tapos kasing-sungit niya tuwing umaga? Lord, baka naman pwedeng i-update 'yung system? Kahit glitch lang, oh! I’ll work triple shifts, ako na ang taga-luto, taga-laba, taga-hugas ng plato, at taga-masahe ng paa ni Wonwoo habambuhay—basta dagdagan pa namin 'tong pack namin. I am literally begging at this point. I want a bigger family to protect, and honestly, I just really want more "bonding time" with my husband without a toddler kicking my spine in the middle of the night.
Bukas, sure na maingay ang bahay, magulo ang kusina, at sigurado akong paralyzed na ang kalahati ng katawan ko dahil sa pwesto ni Luhan—and honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way. Thank you for giving me them. We made it, Woo. We really made it. (Pero Lord, 'yung baby sister ni Luhan ha?)
End.