Work Text:
Today is probably Jongdae’s most unlucky day. He got up late this morning (because of a certain Baekhyun asking him to play online games together until midnight), which makes him late to his office, and got scolded by his manager who just coincidentally has to be in a bad mood and decided to punish him by giving him twice his usual workload. To finish all the pile of work, he needs to work overtime, even after he had sacrificed his lunchtime. All that leads to a starving – and a very irritated Jongdae when he finds out the fridge in his studio apartment is empty after he got off work.
That leaves him with two choices. Go grocery shopping at ten in the evening or starve himself until the morning comes. He’s pretty sure he won’t be able to sleep without some meal in his belly, so the latter is off the table. But who the hell grocery shops alone at night?! Hungry, lonely, and desperate people, he thinks. Realizing all of that is what he is, he gets in his car and goes to the nearest 24-hour supermarket to his house. On his way to the market, he curses his life choices on having a healthy diet because it would certainly be easier to just get fast food delivered to his house. But still, it would be a shame to destroy his hard work in the gym so far.
Arriving at the supermarket, he goes straight to the deli section to get some shredded rotisserie chicken. He plans to make something fast tonight, as he beats enough already. He’s going to make some Chicken Taco Avocados. It is one of his favorite meals, not just because he loves avocados, but also due to the simplicity. It takes about 15 minutes to make, consisting of just some taco fillings on an avocado, but delicious all the same.
He also goes to get the other ingredients such as black beans, canned corn, shredded cheddar, and taco seasoning. Then off he goes to some other sections to buy some food for tomorrow’s breakfast as well. Oatmeal and chia seeds, check. Greek yogurt and low-fat milk, check. Nuts & Berries, check.
Lastly, to complete his shopping list, he goes to the produce section to buy some green chilis and avocados. While seriously choosing his chilis, a man suddenly comes up to him and pokes him on the side.
“Good evening, sorry to interrupt your shopping sir. I’m a staff representative of Exoduce. I see you're a bit confused about choosing your fruits and vegetables. May I help you?"
Caught by surprise, Jongdae answers, "Oh hi, yeah, I think the green chilis that I usually buy are out of stock. I don't know which other one is best to substitute them."
“I can definitely help with that. What types of food do you want to make?”
“I’m planning to make some chicken taco avocados tonight.”
“Oh, that sounds delicious. Wait, let me check for the most suitable chilis for your dish." The staff says, now looking seriously at the variety of chilis.
Jongdae takes the moment to take a more detailed look at the guy. He’s about his height, only a bit smaller. His face is small with very distinctive cat-shaped eyes. He also has this youthful look on him, that Jongdae can’t believe he’s an actual staff representative and not a college student who went late night shopping for some booze.
“I believe you can also use that chili for your chicken taco avocados, it won't taste a lot different." The staff points at a tray of chilis that is much smaller than he usually buys.
“Oh, right! Great! Thank you so much.”
“You’re very welcome. While on the subject, our company has been trying to increase our customer satisfaction by offering a daily supply of vouchers and recipes for VIP customers. To become one, we only need your name, address, and phone number. Our staff then will send you a confirmation SMS and you’re good to go. Free of charge. Are you interested in joining?”
“I’m sorry, I wasn’t paying attention when you first introduced yourself. What company are you from again?”
“Exoduce, short for Exo Produce. We are one of the biggest suppliers of produce products in the country. Most of the fruits and vegetables in your basket are our products.”
“And what are the detailed benefits of becoming a VIP customer?”
“The main benefit is that you will receive new recipes every day and vouchers of discounts & promos. In addition to that, you can also contact our 24-hour customer service regarding any questions such as how to pick the right fruits or how to correctly cook a vegetable. Are you interested?” The staff explains while smiling so sweetly the whole time. Honestly, who could say no to that? So, he gives his name, his address, and his phone number for the staff to repeat it to confirm it’s correct.
“Great! You will receive the confirmation SMS soon, Mr. Kim. Then, I’ll leave you to continue your shopping. It’s getting quite late already.” The staff says with a grin.
“Oh my god, you’re right. Thank you!”
"You're very welcome." The staff says while goes away.
Jongdae then picks up a few of the chilis that the staff suggested to him and rushes to the cashier. After paying all of it, he goes straight to his car, drives to his apartment, and takes his groceries out of the car. Only after he finishes organizing his groceries, he starts cooking his chicken taco avocados accompanied by a scramble of his thoughts.
Hm, that was one eventful shopping night.
How great is it that the peak of my day is when a staff member asked me to become a VIP member of a vegetable company. What an exciting life.
A very cute staff though.
Would we ever meet again? Would he be there when I visit the grocery store again next time?
Ah, It’d be a shame if–
A ringtone coming from his phone pulls him out of his deep thoughts. The sound indicates that there is a text coming. He washes his hands and picks up his phone to see the text is from an unknown number.
Unknown Number:
Good evening, Mr. Kim. This is Kim Minseok, the staff from Exoduce. I’m messaging to inform you that your VIP membership has been confirmed. Starting tomorrow, you will receive daily healthy meal recipes. Moreover, if you have any questions regarding our products or anything else, you can text me on this number. Hope you enjoy your Taco Avocados, Mr. Kim. Good Night.
*1 picture attachment*
He opens the picture only to find a very cute close-up selfie of the staff (Kim MInseok?) with a peace sign and a caption ‘in case you forget >.<’
Huh.
Apparently, the universe decided it won't take long for him to cross paths with the cute staff.
What are you up to, universe?
🥑 🏪 🌶
Minseok is baffled. Who the fuck goes grocery shopping at night? He tried to negotiate himself out of it, but what Junmyeon wants, Junmyeon gets. So, when that neighbor of his wants to go to the supermarket across from their house in the middle of the night TOGETHER, he must comply.
"Myeon, can’t your tomato sauce wait until tomorrow morning?”
“No.”
And that was the end of that negotiation. Minseok knows better than to try to argue.
He accompanies Junmyeon wandering across rows of the supermarket indifferently until they arrive at the produce section of the store. There, he sees who is probably the cutest boy he's ever seen, glowing under bright light, while scrunching his eyebrows and pouting at the many varieties of vegetables.
Minseok whispers. “Myeon, don’t look at him directly, but I think there’s the love of my life to our right.”
“HUH? WHERE?” Junmyeon shouts while frantically swinging his head.
Great. Screw Junmyeon and his ability to be discreet.
“Ohhh, he’s actually cute. He seems so mature though, definitely out of your league.” Junmyeon says with a shrug.
“He maybe is, but that’s not going to stop me from asking his number.”
“What? Who gives their number to a weird stranger in a grocery shop? And besides, look at you standing here in your pajamas whilst he’s in a suit. Forget it.”
He should’ve never told Junmyeon anything. This reality talk is not good for his self-esteem.
“Ya! You’re my friend. You're supposed to support me!" He whines.
“I said that because I'm your friend, Minseok. But if you want to embarrass yourself, then be my guest. Free entertainment for me."
“Watch me.”
Then with all of his courage, he goes to the cute man on his right. He’s still in the same spot pondering hard over some chilis. Deep down, he knows Junmyeon is right. It is impossible to get someone's number without making him seem like a creepy abductor. He needs to come up with a plan, or at least a conversation starter. How can he get his number just as easily as those salespeople ask people's numbers on the street?
Oh, wait.
“Good evening, sorry to interrupt your shopping sir. I’m a staff representative of...”
Minseok quickly sees the brand of chilis lined up on the shelf.
“…Exoduce. I see you're a bit confused about choosing your vegetables. May I help you?"
A bit startled, the cute stranger turns his head to look at the source of the sound. Oh, he's even more beautiful up close. He has a small face with both ends of his lips upturned, just like a– Oh shit, how long has he been staring?
He regrets not paying attention to what the stranger needs help with, but he catches a few 'chilis' and 'out of stock' here and there.
The next problem arises. How in the world is he supposed to know what chili to use? He doesn’t even eat chilis, as he can’t handle spicy food. Nonetheless, boy gotta do what he gotta do. So, he points at one of the thinnest chilis on the shelf, hoping if he gets it wrong, he won't kill the pretty stranger. The smallest should be the least spicy right?
From there, the lies just roll off his mouth, as much as he hates lying to the guy. He starts launching his 'VIP membership plan' into action.
The stranger certainly doesn't make it easy. Minseok almost runs away and cries when he gets asked about 'the detailed benefit of being a VIP member.' But then he calmed himself with an "It's okay, Minseok. Nothing worth having comes easy.” in his head.
Thenceforth, maybe the angels above are taking pity on him or something because even after all the nonsense, the boy still willingly gives him his name and phone number.
Kim Jongdae. He can't wait to say that name out loud at their wedding.
Okay. That’s too far in the future, but the boy is cute! So, it’s not his fault.
“What?! Why did he– Okay, be honest, how did you do it?” Junmyeon asks after he got back to him with Jongdae’s number in his possession.
“Skill, Myeonnie. Sorry, no free entertainment for you today.”
"Please. I'll vacuum the house for a month if you tell me how."
"I love vacuuming the house! Don't take that away from me!"
"Okay then, I'll vacuum the house for a month if you don't tell me."
"Wha– I feel like that's cheating. But okay, I'll tell you." He answers, pouting.
"What?! That's a fraud! Oh my God, I can't believe I live with a con artist. I swear Minseok, I won’t bail you out if the police get to you. You better not mention my name, I have no part in this at all." Junmyeon says frantically when Minseok finishes his story on their way back to their house. He's sooo dramatic.
"Boohoo, what a party pooper. It was just to pave my way in. From now on, it's all going to be 100% me. I think it'll work. Stop being so pessimistic, Myeonnie."
"Yes, 100% getting thrown in jail. Not pessimistic, just being realistic. That's what most grown-ups do."
"Then stop growing up, Myeon. Obviously it's not good for your mental health."
After arriving at their house and finishing arranging their groceries in their designated place, Minseok does not forget to message his new customer about his VIP membership status. To increase the 'customer engagement rate' he decided to also send a selfie of his with a peace sign pose.
Not long after that, when he is getting ready to go to bed, he receives a reply.
Kim Jongdae - pretty customer
> Thank you!
> So, are you like my personal customer service?
> I can really ask you anything regarding my vegetables?
Kim Minseok
Yes, Mr. Kim. <
You can message me anytime, in regards to the Exoduce products or not. <
Kim Jongdae - Pretty Customer
> Then I'd like it if we can be as comfortable as possible. Just call me Jongdae.
> Can I also call you Minseok?
Kim Minseok
Sure. That would be great. <
Kim Jongdae - Pretty customer
> Amazing! Oh, also thank you for helping me choose the chilis tonight!!
Kim Minseok
Is it to your liking? <
Kim Jongdae - Pretty customer
> It is a bit spicier than usual, but it's delicious!
> Thank you, Minseok!
Kim Minseok
Anytime, Jongdae :) <
💫 🥷 ✨
Jongdae woke up quite late today, as it is Sunday, which means no-go-to-the-office day. It is nice to let your body wake up naturally without the force of an 80 dB alarm noise blaring in your ears once in a while. As soon as he's up, he grabs his phone to check if there are any new messages or emails. Apparently, there are a few. He reads it one by one.
Baekhyunnie
> Dae we're on our way
> Jongdae wake up!!!
> Idc if u’re up or not we're still coming
Chanyeollie
> Dae pls wake up, I'm afraid baek would smash your door
Ugh. Why is he friends with these idiots?
Big Boss
> Good work yesterday Jongdae. But, I expect you to not be late again ever.
Oh, he won’t, alright. Never again would he work overtime. He felt like a dementor sucked his soul out. That was until he met the cutie from last night. Speaking of…
Cute Exoduce Staff
> Good Morning Jongdae
> Here is today’s recipe: Cucumber Dill Veggie Wraps with Coconut Wrappers. Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/cucumberwrap ...
> Because if you were a vegetable, you’d be a cute-cumber ;)
Oh my god??? What is that last line? Okay, he gets that it’s his daily recipes, but why is he saying that? Is this part of customer service? Because if it is, then Exoduce has one of the most excellent customer service care ever. He can’t help the color red that went all over his face. What should he answer??
“Jongdae! Open the door in 15 seconds or else!!” He hears a muffled voice from the other side of the door.
Ah, the troublemakers have arrived. Thank god, he needs something to distract his mind.
“God, Jongdae, why do you take so long? Baekhyun’s seconds away from barging through the door.” cries Chanyeol when he finally opens the door.
“I didn’t even take ten seconds?! Why do you guys hate me?”
Giggles are heard from both guests as they enter the house.
“We bring some food, Dae,” Baekhyun yells from his kitchen. “An actual delicious food – not like those dry ass vegetables that you eat every day.”
“And a new racing game! The ones that just launched yesterday!” Chanyeol shouts excitedly.
“God, what would you do with your boring life without us?”
“Hey! My life’s not boring!” chides Jongdae.
“Tell me, in the last month, except going to the office, did you even get out of the house at all? Do you talk to people other than us, Jongdae?” Asks Baekhyun while bringing some fast food to the living room where Chanyeol and Jongdae were already sitting on the sofa with their joysticks.
“I did, actually. I went to the big 24-hour grocery shop and met a boy. He asked for my number, and I gave him. Now we text each other.” He answers smugly.
Well, that’s not exactly a lie, is it?
Then, a stream of ‘WHATT?!’, ‘NO WAY!’ and ‘OH MY GOD!’ are filling the room. He didn't expect them to be this loud, to be honest. He makes a mental note to apologize to his neighbors later.
"Oh! He's pretty cute!!" Shouts Chanyeol after Jongdae showed him the selfie that Minseok sent last night.
"But he sends you recipes? That's a bit weird, no? He's a chef?" Baekhyun asks.
"No! It's just... Our conversation starter. We both love food, so.."
"Dried cucumber with coconut can't be called food, Dae. No one’s eating that shit."
"Oh, shut up Baek."
Now that they're talking about it again, he remembers he needs to reply to Minseok's message. Does he flirt back? Or just reply 'thanks for the recipe' and leave it at that? Ugh, he just hopes it won't be an awkward conversation.
🥒 🌞 🥥
It's not awkward. Thank God.
On the contrary, it’s quite comfortable. After Minseok sends the recipes each morning, Jongdae will recreate them for his dinner and take a picture to show it to Minseok. With that, he’s always praised for his dish, accompanied by stomach-fluttering statements like how much Minseok wants to try them in person.
They also chat a lot, even though it always starts with recipes every morning, but it always ends up with them talking about how their respective days went with silly jokes and puns from Minseok that makes Jongdae giggle a lot in his bed. But his favorite part would be when they would send each other selfies because Minseok always sends the cutest selfies (which sometimes he isn't thankful for when he's at the office because he can't coo out loud).
Sometimes, it's crazy to think about how easy it is to talk to Minseok, how fast he falls into this comfort circle of days full of Minseok’s chat. Oh, the Chats. God. Even after two weeks as the receiving end, the text still leaves him red and speechless as ever, if not more. He remembers their texts from the past several mornings.
Minseok Exoduce :}
> Good Morning Jongdae ~
> This may be cheesy, but I think you’re grate ;)
> That's why for today's recipe I present you: Brussels Sprout Mac n Cheese. Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/macncheese...
> Hope you have a grate day >.<
Minseok Exoduce :}
> Good Morning Jongdae
> I've been thinking...
> and finally I've come to the conclusion that...
> you must be a banana, cause I find you very a-peeling ;)
> Going with the theme, here is today’s banana recipe: No-Bake Banana Chocolate Chip Protein Bars. Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/bananabars...
> have a sweet day, Jongdae!
Minseok Exoduce :}
> Good Morning Jongdae ^^
> I believe this is the perfect recipe for you today: Low-Carb Pho Soup. Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/phosoup...
> Since you’re like a noodle soup, I could never pho-get about you ;)
> This is Sunday, so rest a lot and enjoy your day!
Minseok Exoduce :}
> Good Monday Morning Jongdae!!
> Here is today’s recipe: Creamy Pineapple Sorbet. Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/pineapplesorbet...
> Because If you were a fruit, you’d be a fine-apple ;)
> Wish you good luck for today, Dae!
Minseok Exoduce :}
> Good Morning Jongdae >.<
> Since you constantly make my heart skip a beet,
> Here is today’s recipe for you: Beetroot and Quinoa Veggie Burger. Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/beetrootburger...
> Today too, fighting! and I wish you all the best!
He's pretty sure he even tolerates these lame-ass pick-up lines because it’s Minseok. If other people send them to Jongdae, he would be cringing so hard, and they would get blocked immediately. He’s definitely biased, but he thinks it's cute the way Minseok does it. How he coordinates the pick-up lines with the recipes for that particular day. And really, the thought that Minseok actually thinks of him that way; great, appealing, and even fine-apple flatter him.
He sighs.
But, in the back of his mind, he always knows. These texts are not catered to him specifically. Minseok probably broadcast it to another 50 VIP customers of Exoduce. It was never really about Jongdae. Minseok is also responsive to him, probably because it’s his job. So, why is Jongdae feeling this way?
He sighs, again — he lost count of how many times now — as he unlocks his phone to see his first text of the day from Minseok.
Minseok Exoduce :}
> Good Morning Jongdae!
> Do you eat mangoes?
Kim Jongdae
Morning Minseok! <
Yes! love them, why? <
Is today's recipe about mangoes? <
Minseok Exoduce :}
> Yes! Here is today’s recipe: Rice Pudding Mango and Ginger. Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/ricepuddingmango...
> I knew you'd like mango, cause you make a man-go crazy ;)
Ugh, Minseok. You’re the one that’s making a man crazy.
🧀 🍌 🍍 🍜 🥭
"Shit. Shit shit shit. Fuck! Oh, fucking hell."
"Oh my god!! Are you talking or pooping from your mouth? Why are so many dirty things coming out?! Tannie, cover your ears!" Junmyeon shouts while he runs to cover their cat, Tan's ears.
"Ay, Tannie's an adult. He can cope."
"Well, I definitely can't! What's wrong?"
"Jongdae's got a stomach ache. It's so bad that he has to skip work. He thinks it might be from the pasta he ate last night, which I recommend to him. And now, he's sick alone in his house. God, I feel so bad." Minseok answers.
"Oooh, if you're not thrown in jail before, you're definitely in now. I bet he's calling the police for food poisoning as we speak."
"Ughh, why am I a fake customer service agent that can only show his affection by giving random recipes from the internet?" whines Minseok. “Why can’t I cook for him?”
“That’d be worse. You’d serve him burnt food.”
“That was one time, Junmyeon! Let it go!”
Junmyeon giggles.
“I just want to take care of him, you know, as Minseok, not some fake staff from Exoduce.” Minseok whispers.
"Then show him the real you. Your real gesture of affection.” Junmyeon says. “Now, when he needs you the most."
"What do you mean?"
Junmyeon looks at him like he’s an idiot. “If you’re not an Exoduce staff, what would you do?"
"I would run to his house, bring him medicine, some soups, and porridge. Cuddle him while we're watching some movies or sing him some lullabies– But I can't do that, now can I? It's an employee's violation of work ethics."
"God Minseok, are you having an identity crisis?! Exoduce can't fire you! You don't actually work for them! Now get your ass off and take care of him!" Junmyeon says, looking exasperated.
And that's how Minseok ended up in a pharmacy, asking the pharmacist the proper medicine for Jongdae’s symptoms. Consequently, he goes to the grocery store to pick up some fruits and vegetables for him to cook their lunch and dinner. After that, he goes straight to Jongdae’s house. Informing that he’s arrived, he sends a text to Jongdae.
Kim Minseok
Dae, I’m in front of your apartment <
Open the door for me? <
Jongdae <3
> ????!!!!!!!
“Minseok? Why are you here? How did you know where I live?” Jongdae asks with a shocked face while he opens the door to his apartment. He’s not looking good. His eyes are red and his nose is runny. Probably feverish too, judging from how much his body shivers from the wind.
“You gave me your address, remember? For the VIP membership?”
“Aahh, that's right.” Jongdae answers. They stand there awkwardly for a couple of seconds until Jongdae opens his mouth again. “You see Minseok, I’d love to invite you to come in, but as I told you already, I’m sick. I don’t want you to catch it too.”
"It's okay. I have a great immune system. Besides, I'm the one who recommended you the menu, I made you like this. I'm really sorry, Dae.”
“What? No! There’s nothing wrong with the menu, I think I messed up when choosing the ingredients or something. Let’s come in, Minseok.”
Upon entering Jongdae’s apartment, he can see a reflection of Jongdae in the furniture and the arrangement. It’s simple but charming. A little messier than his own, but that added the appeal. Then he remembers he bought so many things when his arms started to ache with so many bags he carries.
“I brought a few bags of groceries, Dae. Where should I put it?”
“Oh, here in the kitchen.” Jongdae answers, while pointing to his kitchen. He tries to help Minseok carry his bags, but the latter brushes it off.
“Have you had lunch yet?”
“No. I don't have the energy to cook, and I really don't want to order take-out. I think I just want to sleep all day.”
“It’s 2 pm and you haven’t eaten anything? What about medicine?”
“Uhh, no…”
“Jongdae, you need all the nutrients you can get to help fasten your recovery. Now that I’m here, just have some rest, I’ll cook for lunch and dinner, okay?”
“What? Minseok, it’s okay. It’s not seldom my body feels this way, I can just rest it off for 2 or 3 days, and I’ll be as good as before.”
“And we could make it to 1 day if you consume the proper number of vitamins.” Chides Minseok. Rather than a (potential) loving boyfriend, he feels more like a mom. “Now, sleep. I’ll wake you up in no time to eat, so get all the rest you can get.”
“Okay…” Jongdae says as he finally heads out to his bedroom.
Minseok starts to unload his grocery bags. He takes out two packs of fresh squid, limes, garlic, olives, a few chilis, black beans, and the other ingredients. While he waits for the squid to be marinated, he cuts out some mangoes and avocados for the salad.
It took him about 25 minutes to finish around 6 servings of the menu. He puts two servings on two different plates, for him and Jongdae. Then he puts the rest of the four servings in a lunchbox and places them in the freezer for future Jongdae to eat. He doesn’t forget to put a little note that reads ‘Heat for 20 minutes :)’ on top of it. He’s really tempted to write ‘Heat for 20 minutes. Love me for the rest of time.' on it, but then he berates himself and nixes the idea.
Not long after that, the sound of Jongdae’s door being opened can be heard, and he comes out of his room.
“Whoa… My apartment never smells this good. What are you making, Minseok?”
“Barbecue squid salad… Because I think you’re barbe-cute.” Minseok answers with his voice decreasing towards the end. News flash, guys! Apparently, pickup lines said out loud in person are too embarrassing.
“Oh my god, Minseok, stop it!” squeals Jongdae. Minseok turns his head to look at Jongdae only to see his red face, not from sickness, but from embarrassment. It's nice to see he's not the only one affected by his words.
Jongdae stands there for a while, watching Minseok decorate their finished food on the plate while singing along to the songs he plays from his phone until a new song plays out.
“Oh! I used to love this song! It’s been so long since I last heard it. How does a guy your age know this song, Minseok?” Jongdae casually asks.
Minseok stops his movement and looks Jongdae in the eyes.
“Jongdae, how old do you think I am?”
“Huh? 21? 22 tops?”
“….I’m 29.”
“What?! No! You’re older than me?!”
“Yeah…”
For a while, only silence fills the kitchen as they are busy with their own thoughts.
“Should I call you ‘Hyung’ then?”
“Wha– You don’t have to….”
“Sure, but I want to. Let’s call each other comfortably. You can just call me ‘Dae’ and I'll call you 'Hyung’ from now on, Minseok Hyung.”
Obviously, in unison, Minseok’s face gets super red. He doesn't even know why. All his juniors in his office call him 'Hyung’ all the time, but why is it so different from Jongdae? Urgh, he really needs to pull himself together.
“The food’s ready. Where do you want to eat?” He asks, trying to divert his mind elsewhere.
"Oh, on the sofa, Hyung. Let me help you carry these,” Jongdae answers as he leads Minseok to the living room.
They put down their plates, and Jongdae grabs a remote to turn on the television. He asks Minseok what he wants to watch, but he really just wants to watch Jongdae, so he ends up saying ‘Anything’.
Jongdae decides to watch this American detective-mystery tv show that is currently ongoing, saying how fun the plot of the show is. He also complimented the older’s cooking for being one of the best squids he ever tastes, going on and on about how hard it is to cook a squid deliciously. It could be fishy if undercooked and could be tough and rubbery if overcooked. Minseok cooked it perfectly. Honestly, Gordon Ramsay could be there and compliment his food and Minseok wouldn’t care. Getting complimented by Jongdae makes him feel like he has won in this life.
They stay like that for hours. Eating and watching while episodes after episodes keep rolling without a stop. Until he shifts his sitting position and looks at the windows. The sky is so dark already. It’s his alarm to part his ways with Jongdae. He needs to go home. Jongdae needed his rest, and he has an early appointment tomorrow at his work. So he stretches himself and turns to Jongdae. The other is so focused on the movie, it breaks his heart to disturb him.
“Dae, it’s quite late already. I need to get back. Drink your medicine, okay? I’ll visit tomorrow if I can.”
Jongdae looks at him with a shocked face and blinks a few times before he finally talks.
“Hyung, can’t you….”
“Hmm?”
“Can’t you just.. stay over, Hyung? It’s really late already, and I... I really don’t want to sleep alone tonight.” His voice is so small, Minseok can barely hear it.
But before Minseok can answer him, he continues with a much louder voice, "Aaahh, but it must be weird for you to sleep at a stranger’s house, right? Ahahaha. I’m sorry, Hyung. Forget I said that.”
Minseok smiles sadly at that. God, he wishes the other knew how much he wants to stay.
“You’re not a stranger to me, Dae. Never say that again. See, I’d really love to stay. But I just got this one appointment very early in the morning tomorrow. So, maybe I'll stay over next time, I promise. For now, I'll accompany you here until you fall asleep, okay? Do you want to move to your bedroom?"
“Okay, Hyung. No, I'll stay here on the sofa. The tv sound makes me sleepy.” Jongdae answers with a little smile.
And that’s the last thing Minseok remembers.
Minseok wakes up in the middle of the night, sitting with his back straight on Jongdae’s sofa, with the owner’s head on his right shoulder. Apparently, he also fell asleep there. Oh, his back is definitely going to be sore all day. He reaches out to his phone to check what time it is. 02.51 AM. He tilts his head to see Jongdae still sleeping soundly, not as red as the night before. He brings his hand up and touches Jongdae’s forehead to check his temperature. Thank god, he thinks the fever’s dropping.
He checks his surroundings for some pillows as a substitute for his shoulder. He doesn't want to, but he needs to get home, he has an early appointment tomorrow at his work. If it's up to his will, he wants to stay with Jongdae and make sure he’s really recovered until the next few days. But he can’t always get what he wants, so he needs to deal with it.
After he stands up and lays Jongdae on his sofa, with a substitute pillow and a blanket, he sees that the television is still on, so he tries to find the remote to turn it off, afraid the loud music might wake Jongdae up. It’s settled on a channel that plays the hottest music on the chart right now. While still looking for the remote, the channel is playing a new music video, with a soft music intro. After a few seconds, the singer started singing and the lyrics freezes him to his place, damn remote forgotten.
Baby, it's 3 am
Had you on my mind
And it’s not the first time we’ve gone through this
Wanting you more and more
I can’t help but think of what we could be
And baby if I could tell you
How much I care, I’m in despair
Are you still there?
Just tell me how we can make this work
How we can make this work
Cause baby if I find a way, I’m sure of it this love won’t stray
Just give me a chance to say I love you
And I need you
Now are you here to stay, or fade away like every other day?
You’re the reason that I lie awake
The lyrics are a straight arrow to his heart. It is, verbatim, what he’s been wanting to say but too scared to because he doesn’t want to ruin their comfortable bubble of friendship (or an employee-customer relationship). So, for tonight, condolences to his heart, he’s going to fade away from Jongdae’s house just like the song said.
But also, just like the song said, he can't help but wonder what they could be. And from now on, he’ll take every chance he has to tell Jongdae how much he cares about him.
💊 😷 🦑
To say Minseok’s frustrated would be an understatement. It’s been three months since he met Jongdae at the grocery shop, which also means three months of his fruitless and one-sided flirting. Nothing more happened after their interaction at Jongdae’s house even though he already steps up his game. Now, he sends more direct pick-up lines, only to be ignored by Jongdae, or laughed at, if he’s lucky.
May 4th
Kim Minseok
Happy Wednesday Morning Dae!! <
Today’s recipe is about pear! <
Red Wine & Cranberry Poached Pears <
Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/poachedpear.. <
Because I think we’d made a cute pear ;) <
Jongdae <3
> Oh!
> That sounds great
Kim Minseok
Yeah? <
*Typing* You think we’d make a cute pair t…
Jongdae <3
> Yeah, I’ll try to make it after I get back home!!
Kim Minseok
*Deleting* You think we’d make a cu…
May 5th
Kim Minseok
Good Morning Dae! <
Today’s recipe is about dumplings! <
Kale & Edamame Dumplings <
Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/kaledumplings.. <
Because I’m just like a dumpling, <
I have fillings for you… <
Hehe hope you like it dae^^ <
Jongdae <3
> Oh, Minseok Hyung…
> I’m sorry I don’t think I can recreate this recipe today...
> I hate dumplings
May 6th
Kim Minseok
Morning Dae! <
Guess what today’s recipe is? <
Jongdae <3
> Morning, Hyung!!
> I don’t know! What, what tell mee ~
Kim Minseok
Arugula & Lettuce! <
Because I may be Arugula guy, but lettuce take a chance together <
What do you think? <
Jongdae <3
> LOL funny pun
Wasn’t he so direct already?! When you get pick-up lines like that, aren’t you supposed to flirt back? Is Jongdae maybe just not interested in him romantically? But at the same time, Jongdae seems quite delighted with their daily banter. And more often than not, he would find Jongdae blushing at him on their video calls. Did he misunderstand? Ugh, it drives him crazy. He doesn’t really want to admit it, but Jongdae’s unresponsiveness might start to take a toll on him.
He decides that he needs to act tonight. Maybe Jongdae is the oblivious type. The type that needs to hear the exact ‘I-like-you-but-that-is-not-enough-so-if-you-will-please-fall-in-love-with-me-too-thanks’.
Since he needs to lay out his feelings in the open, he thinks it’s best for him to just call Jongdae. He can’t say it via text. He needs to hear Jongdae’s voice. Would he be excited? Would he be angry? Disappointed? Would he be surprised? A good kind of surprise or a bad kind of surprise?
He tries to call him, but it goes straight to voicemail. Ah, he remembers that Jongdae just called a few hours ago about him working overtime so they couldn’t do their routine-good-night-call. But he couldn’t possibly wait until Jongdae gets off work, he needs to say it now or he would lose all his courage.
Well, if that’s the case, he can just leave a voice message for him. For Jongdae to listen to after he’s done with his work. To which Minseok hoped Jongdae would reply. Jongdae’s response to his message tonight is what would differ whether, all this time, he has been seen as a potential lover or a mere recipe provider.
He presses the voice message button in the app and starts his message.
“Hi Dae, this is Minseok. Uhh, you obviously knew. There’s my name in your contacts. I don’t know why I said that.”
Good God, help him. He’s a mess.
“So, my reason for calling is... I just want to say that you make me so happy, Dae. We always talked like we didn't just know each other three months ago, and I miss you terribly if you don’t call at night…”
He takes a deep breath, okay here he goes…
“I like you, Dae. I think I always have been, from the very first time I see you. Looking unbelievably gorgeous, picking chilis in the middle of a grocery store. Even more now, I feel like I’m already in love with you, but I just don’t know where to starch . Hehe, see what I did there? Oh, stop! I can practically see you rolling your eyes, you know you secretly love my food puns, Dae.”
“Anyway, since I’m bad at this, maybe it is better if I convey my feelings in a song. Hope you like it, Dae. This one’s for you.” He finishes.
Then he started singing.
“ Late night, keep me on telephone all night
I don’t want to talk about anything, I’m happy with you for the rest of my life
Your voice keeps ringing, don’t stop talking to me, talk to me
You and me, honestly, I don’t know about you
but I still wonder if it’s love
You don’t know, but every time I lay down I’mma think about you
Maybe every day, I think of you a thousand times a day
Don’t you feel excited by the sound of text notifications?
Do you know what it feels like to have trouble writing back? I do
Call me on the telephone, tell me, babe
I can’t do this anymore, it’s so vague right now
Call me on the telephone, waiting on you
Come on boy just tell me what to do
Tell me what to do"
He clears his throat.
“Anyway, if you maybe, just a little bit, feel the same, call me Dae.”
When his phone doesn’t ring for the rest of the night, he knows he should stop.
Yeah, he will stop.
🍐 🥟 🥬 ☎️
Something happened. He doesn’t know what, or why. But something is definitely up with Minseok. He’s still sending Jongdae recipes every morning, but for the past few days, the message was just… monotonous.
Minseok Hyung Exoduce :}
> Good day, Dae
> Here’s your recipe for today: Green tea noodles with sweet chili salmon. Click this link to access: https://www.exoduce.co/recipe/greenteanoodles...
Kim Jongdae
Good day to you too, Hyung! <
Ooh that sounds nice <
I’ll make it for dinner! <
I’ll take a picture and you score how appetizing it looks, like usual, ok? :D <
Minseok Hyung Exoduce :}
> Sure
And if that is bad, then the last two days are the worst. Minseok has not messaged him at all. Not a recipe, not a good morning, not even a simple hi. He can’t help but admit that Minseok’s daily greetings are part of his mornings now. He’s always accompanied by Minseok’s jokes throughout the day and always drifts off to sleep with a night call from him. Jongdae’s so used to it. Used to Minseok morning selfies, used to Minseok’s sleepy and raspy voice at night.
It caught Jongdae off guard now that it’s gone.
His mind is going everywhere. Is Minseok okay? Maybe something happens to him? Or is he getting bored of Jongdae? Yeah, that’s probably what happens. People tell him that a lot, that he’s boring. Someone as lively as Minseok wouldn’t settle for someone as dull as him. He feels dejected. He misses the bubbly messages and the corny pickup lines. He misses his vibrant Minseok. His. Huh, he snickered at his brain for unconsciously thinking that. Minseok was never his.
Maybe he snickered out loud, or maybe his distress is visible on his face, but Baekhyun suddenly looks at him weirdly, which makes him realize he's still in his office.
“Jongdae, you look miserable. Are you okay?” Baekhyun asks while sliding his chair closer to Jongdae.
“…..Yes. I think.” Jongdae answers after a long pause, thinking. “I mean, not really… but it’s nothing too serious. Don’t worry about it, Baek. I don’t want to burden you”
“I should be the one deciding if I want to be burdened or not, don’t you think? I want to. Now spill.”
After hesitating for a minute, he starts to speak. “Do you remember Minseok?”
“The healthy recipe guy?”
“No! Well, yes, that’s the guy, but– Anyway, we’ve been getting along really well, you know, for the past like three months or so. He texts me good morning and calls me to accompany me asleep every day. He even took care of me when I was sick. He’s kind, caring, and funny. He makes the best jokes...”
He takes a sharp breath remembering the painful memory, putting a pinch of salt directly into the wound.
“But he’s been different for the past week. I don’t know why? Yesterday, he didn’t send me a single word, Baek. I don’t want to make a big deal out of this because Minseok is an adult, he has his own business, but I can’t help feeling sad and I just wish he told me what happened? God, I’m 26. Why am I like this?” He blabbers.
“Do you remember if something happened the day before he changed? Is there maybe something you did that would trigger the changes?”
“I don’t think so? I remember I messaged Minseok that night that I would be working until late so I can’t call him, and he said okay. When I get home, there’s a voice message from him, but when I played it, there’s no sound coming out. It was the 21st Baek. Do you remember when you dropped my phone when you throw it to Yeol? I think my phone speaker is broken after that. But I think it was just a cooking tip or something. He sends a lot of them via voice message if he gets too tired of typing. I wouldn’t think he would get mad because I didn’t respond to his cooking suggestion, Baek. So, I really don’t know why.” He rants his whole thought to Baekhyun.
“Hmmm, I don’t know, some people are really sensitive about their cooking tips, Dae.”
He rolls his eyes. “Baek, I’m serious!”
Silence washes over them for a few seconds before Baekhyun opens his mouth.
“Do you like him, Dae?”
Jongdae thinks about it for a minute.
“I do...”
“Then confess! I think he likes you too.”
“What?! Are you even listening? I literally just told you five seconds ago that he stopped messaging me. How does that translate to ‘he likes me too’?” he unintentionally shouted. “And even if, a big if, he does like me too, you know I would never have the courage to do that. He’s out of my league, Baek.”
“Jongdae, you’re doing it again.”
“Doing what?”
“Self-reject. You also did that when you told me you wanted this job and look at where you’re sitting now.”
He continues, “I told you then, and I’ll tell you again. Jongdae, do not self-reject. If you don’t think people will reply to your message, send it anyway. If you don’t think you deserve the job, apply for it anyway. If you don’t think he’ll reciprocate your feelings, confess anyway. Don’t assume that they’re going to reject you because they probably won’t. Give the universe and the people in your life a chance to accept you.”
“… Did I?” His voice is so soft it’s almost inaudible. “But what if he really rejects me? And What if that messes everything up in our relationship?
“But at least you take your chances. Moping here and suppressing your feelings won’t get you to be with him either, Jongdae. Wouldn’t it be better to risk messing things up?” Baekhyun chides. “If both options end with you feeling despondent, won’t you want to at least know your chances?”
That’s when it hits him. Baekhyun’s right. What he’s been doing now for the past months is ridiculous. Because he doesn’t want to not be with Minseok in case he rejects him, he chooses to not be with Minseok and not confess at all.
Now that he sees it, he notices that he does this all the time. He wants love, yet he’s afraid to fall in love. But he realizes, sometimes he has to dive in and get wet to know how the water feels. Not just watching on the sidelines and hoping for a splash.
He then decides that maybe he can start his change with Minseok.
“Okay. I’ll text him right now.” Jongdae said while releasing some breath that he doesn’t remember holding.
“No! No confession should be done via text! Go. Confess to him in person. I’ll cover your work.”
“What? No, Baek, that’s okay. I can just–"
“Shut up. You have a higher probability of being accepted if you ask him out face to face. Now run your ass off before I change my mind.”
Jongdae probably can break the world record for the fastest 'packing-things-up-and-getting-out-of-the-office' after that. He’ll take that higher probability of being accepted. He needed all the probability he could get to get his feelings reciprocated by the cute man. But, before he gets in the lift, he runs back to Baekhyun.
“Ya! Why are you back?! Jongdae, I swear if you’re having a second thought–”
“Don’t you need to stop self-rejecting too?”
“From what? I don’t do that. My confidence level is as high as a–"
“Then ask Chanyeol out already. I’m pretty sure he likes you too.”
“…HE LIKES ME?! Wait, Jongdae, what do you– Ya! Get back here!”
“Bye Baek, can’t keep a potential lover waiting!" Jongdae yells while getting inside the lift, leaving Baekhyun speechless in his seat.
He thinks this is the right place. The address that he puts in google maps leads him to this small building not far from the grocery store where he met Minseok for the first time.
‘He picks a good place, very close to his work’ he thinks to himself.
He then enters hoping he can get to the right door, just like he remembers Minseok told him on one of their night calls. The second floor, room no. 11. Okay, now all he needs to do is just knock on his door and brace himself.
The door opens.
“Myeon? Why are you back alre– Jongdae?”
“Hi..” Jongdae answers awkwardly.
“Hi, why are you– You know what, just come in. You look tired.”
Jongdae enters behind Minseok to his house. It looks clean & neat, not a speck of dust seen.
“No. Not tired. Just anxious.” Said Jongdae while he followed Minseok to the kitchen bar.
“Oh, why? Sit, Dae. Let me get you a drink. What do you want? Tea, coffee, or just water?”
“Tea would be great. Thank you, Hyung.”
He feels sparks all over his body after he called Minseok ‘Hyung’ in person after a long time. It’s always been texts and calls between them, and the one time they met, he was so sick he wasn’t actually in his right mind.
“Here, Dae. Chamomile. Good for soothing nerves.” Minseok says while handing Jongdae a cup of tea. “So, care to tell me what are you so nervous about? Maybe I can help.”
Minseok smiles at him, and oh boy, the chamomile tea doesn’t help at all. Now that he is in front of Minseok, looking flawless and beaming in his seat beside him, being so caring and warmhearted, he found himself spiraling all over again. He couldn’t possibly ask this embodiment of a Greek God on a date. He knows Minseok is single, but that’s probably because he has a high standard. He won’t just go on a date with anyone. Who does he think he is? He would get 100% kicked out.
But then he remembers Baekhyun, and how noisy he would be if he gets home without asking Minseok out, and he really, really wants to avoid that. So, he exhales, reveals his heart, and prepares for the worst.
“Why did you stop messaging me, Hyung? I miss your text. I miss you.”
Minseok tenses for a few seconds, but then he answers. “You ignored my voice message the other night, Dae. I thought you don't want to talk to me anymore or want to be just friends, and I can't, Dae. I’m sorry. I adore you too much. I needed to take a step back to save myself from hurting more.”
Jongdae’s mind is going crazy. It’s all of the natural disasters combined up there. Earthquake, Tsunami, Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Wildfires, name them all, he got them. But as a mature man, he won’t let all those shows. He's going to act calm and collected and answer Minseok like a functioning adult.
“Whaaaaaaaatt? Hahahahahaa." a shriek comes out of him.
Yup, he’s erroring. Someone fix him.
“I’m sorry, Dae. Are you okay?” Minseok asks with a look full of concern. And he can’t bear that look on Minseok, so he pulls himself together.
“Umm, yes, Hyung. It’s– It’s just crazy to know that you’ve liked me too all this time without me knowing.” He pauses and waits for Minseok’s reaction. When the other finally registers what he’s implying with his sentence, he continues. “I didn’t ignore your message, Hyung. I would never. I played it, but there’s no sound coming out because my phone’s speaker is broken. So, I never knew what you said there. But, if my prediction is right, it might be similar to what I've been meaning to say to you too."
Both of them now are as red as a crab, but it was a good red, a comfortable one. And he can't express how much he likes this look on Minseok, he looks even cuter, and he wants to see more. So, he carries on with his speech.
“I like you, Hyung. For quite some time already. I like all your lame food puns. I like your beautiful monolid eyes. I like your gummy smile. I like how competitive you can get for silly things. I like your voice, especially when you sing. I like being around you. I even like myself more when I’m with you. I’m so glad you found me in that grocery store, Hyung.”
“God. I’m an idiot.” Minseok answers after some time.
"That makes the two of us." Jongdae jokes trying to calm down his heart. "I don't exactly know how you feel about me Hyung, but if you let me, I will try my best to make you happy.”
“Dae, do you like raisins?” asks Minseok suddenly.
“Huh? Not really.”
“Okay, how about a date?”
There’s silence in the kitchen as Jongdae tries to understand the older. Raisins, fruit. A date, a stage of romantic relationships, but also a fruit.
“Hyung!! Stop with the food puns! My heart almost jumps out of my chest.” Protest Jongdae while the other’s guffawing.
“You haven’t even tried for the past three months and I’m already my happiest. I don’t think I can handle you trying your best.” Minseok said with a grin after he caught his breath.
He continues. “You see, I’ve only spent two days of not talking to you and my mind’s been screaming to just call you, text you, to ask how your day was and if you’re doing well. But I thought I couldn't, so it was torture. Now that I’ve got you back, I won’t let you go ever again, Dae.”
“You better, Hyung. I’m going to stick with you until we’re grey and old," replies Jongdae. “Oh wait! Correction. I’m going to stick with you until I’m grey and old and your vampire ass stays looking like this.”
They laugh together for a while.
When silence finally fills the room, Minseok suddenly leans in and pulls his chair towards him until there’s not much space between them. Minseok places one hand on Jongdae’s cheek and the other on his chair to support himself. Jongdae feels like every single cell in his body just got burned. Not realizing Jongdae’s hysterical mind, Minseok moves his face forward until their lips brushed slightly.
Minseok parted his lips to whisper softly, “This okay, Dae?”
Jongdae wants to be annoyed, really. What is with this hyung’s duality? One second, he acts like a bad boy, just tugging Jongdae towards him, and one second, he’s asking permission to kiss him?!
Even more, what does he mean by ‘this okay’? Of course, it’s okay, it’s more than okay. He’s been craving those lips since Minseok came to his house a few months ago. Maybe it’s his sick mind thinking, but it hasn’t stopped looking so soft since then. His eyes always ended up looking there at every video call and every single selfie that Minseok sends.
“Just kiss me, Hyung.”
Taking that as a cue, Minseok tilts his head and kisses Jongdae deeply. It was everything he ever dreamed for, and more. If he doesn’t understand biology, he’s pretty sure his heartbeat can be heard by Minseok’s neighbors a few units away.
They kissed for so long, Jongdae lost count of how many minutes had passed. The only thing that crossed his mind at that moment was how he could definitely get used to this. Get used to having deep talks and jokes around and wear his heart on his sleeve only for Minseok to see. This is nice.
He makes a mental note to thank Baekhyun later for his motivational & awakening speech earlier. He’ll get him all the Chanyeol in the world for his act of sacrifice today. He really does have the best friends and boyfriend. Google said that the luckiest person on earth is Frane Selak from Croatia. Wrong, google. Now, change it to Kim Jongdae from South Korea.
🍵 ☕️ 🍵 ☕️
– 3 Months Later –
“Hyung, I know you’ve resigned from Exoduce, but can you ask one of your former coworkers if they can still send me some vouchers? It’s really weird, Hyung. I didn’t revoke my VIP membership, yet I haven’t received one single voucher after you resigned. But now a voucher would be great, to save some money from the big purchase of fruits for tomorrow’s party. Do they not transfer your customer data to the other staff, Hyung?” Asks Jongdae out of the blue while they’re cuddling together on their sofa, watching the newest episode of their favorite drama.
Minseok immediately goes stiff. He always knew the question would come up sooner or later. But still, this is much sooner than he expected. He needs to rehearse all his possible answers with Junmyeon. For now, he digs his brain for a temporary answer.
"UHHH… OF COURSE, THEY DID.” His voice comes out louder than he intended to. “Do you think I'm not professional enough to not hand out my customer data?"
Great. He grimaces as soon as he closes his mouth. He’s the worst liar he knows.
Well, in his defense, he never works great under pressure and Jongdae just put him under GREAT pressure.
“No, Hyung. You know that’s not what I meant.” Jongdae said as he detaches his body from Minseok’s hold to have a better look at his boyfriend
“Yes, I know. I’m sorry. That’s not what I meant to come out of my mouth. What I meant was... I don’t think they would give you the voucher, Dae. I heard the company’s going bankrupt.”
Please, someone, stop him! The stupid lies just keep coming out of his mouth. Why can’t he come up with a better alibi? He swears he’d be the worst criminal ever.
"What? Really? Wow, the biggest produce company in the country is going bankrupt and I didn't know. Did it not come out on the news or something, Hyung?”
“It came up… on something”
Then it goes silent for a few seconds.
“Hyung, you’re acting really strange. Are you okay?”
“Of course! Why would I not be? Hahahhahaha.”
“Hyung, you underestimated me if you think you can fool me with that. I’ve known you for six months. You can’t possibly think I wouldn’t know if you’re nervous. If Exoduce is a topic that you want to avoid, just let me know Hyung. I wouldn't mention it again. Did something happen to you when you worked there? If you're comfortable enough to tell me, I'm all ears, Hyung.” Jongdae said with the softest smile. Minseok can see a little bit of concern, but a lot, a lot of fondness in his eyes.
Which makes it harder for Minseok. It’s not that he wants to keep it a secret forever, he plans to tell Jongdae eventually. He just needs the perfect moment, when he’s already prepared his heart for the worst outcome, Jongdae leaving him.
That moment is definitely not now when they're cozily snuggling up on the sofa that barely fits the two of them, sharing warmth and jokes about the main character in the drama playing in front of them. If Jongdae leaves him now — probably stormed out of the house because he’s been lied to for so long — and leaves him alone on the sofa, he doesn't think he can handle it.
But at the same time, Jongdae is being such a sweetheart, and he just couldn’t lie anymore, even if he tried. The idea of Jongdae staying with him for more, only to resents it when he finds out later makes him sick to his stomach.
“It’s okay, Hyung. We can continue to watch the show, you don’t have to tell me now.” Jongdae said softly while reaching for the tv remote to play the drama.
Minseok stops him before it’s too late. “No, Dae. I want to tell you now. But… It may change what you think of me, and ended up not wanting to be with me anymore. If– If that's what happens, I just want to let you know, it's okay to leave. I'll break down for sure, but only for a little while. Please don't fake your feelings for me. I wouldn't want to hold you captive.”
Jongdae scoffs. “Okay, I promise. But unless you killed someone or anything, I wouldn’t leave, Hyung. I like you too much for that.” A soft smile plastered on his face, only to be changed to a horror expression right after. “Wait, you did not kill someone, did you Hyung?”
“No! Of course not. You know I couldn’t even kill an ant. It’s just…” He starts fidgeting.
“I don’t actually work for Exoduce, Dae. I was just accompanying Junmyeon buying groceries the other night when I saw you. And you were just so captivating, I got to have your number. But obviously, you wouldn't give one to a creep stranger, so I introduce myself as a staff…” he finishes, while looking down to his lap. He can’t bring himself to look properly at the other.
“Ohh, okay. So, are you like a mob boss or something? A bounty hunter?”
“What? No! What are you on about, Dae?”
“You’re not? Aw, that would be really hot. What are you so nervous about then? What is your real job?” Jongdae asks nonchalantly.
“…I’m a nutritionist. That’s why I can keep recommending you a healthy diet.” Minseok answers sheepishly. “And of course I’m nervous. I lied to you. There’s a chance you wouldn’t want to trust me anymore.”
“Hmmm, rather than that, I was more impressed with your tactics to get my number. I would never have the courage or the brain to do that.”
“You were breathtaking, Dae. I thought you might be a celebrity going shopping or something. I couldn’t look away. I just had this urge of wanting to see you more. Hence, the courage.” Minseok explains. “So… you’re not angry? You won’t leave?”
“It’s not that easy to get rid of me, Hyung. You’re stuck with me now. Besides, it makes me ecstatic to know that you want me as much as I want you.” Jongdae giggles and snuggles closer to the other.
“Of course, Dae. Always. I love you from my head tomatoes.”
“Hyuungg, stop!”
It's always crazy to think about, even now, how strings of fate bring them together. In front of a produce shelf in the middle of a grocery store at 10 pm. Jongdae shivers when he thinks about that day. If he was not late, he wouldn’t get too much work, then he would get to eat his lunch, and he wouldn’t be starving at night, which leads to no grocery shopping in the middle of the night, hence not meeting his half.
It also blows his mind how he and Minseok fit really well together, despite being the complete opposite. Minseok is fearless and adventurous, while he’s timid and averse to risks. Minseok loves lame-ass dad-jokes and puns, while he cringes at them. Minseok is super tidy and loves to clean his house all the time, while Jongdae’s room is the embodiment of a shipwreck.
He thinks about it all the time. Why do people choose partners so different from themselves? As he thinks about it, he sees Minseok smiling at him with his cute gummy smile and eyes with so much affection, and it hits him.
It’s not fate or chance or cliches like ‘The heart wants what the heart wants’. They choose their partners because they manifest qualities that their selves wished they had. In doing so, in choosing such a challenging partner, and working to give them what they need, they chart a course for their own growth, together.
❤️ 🍅 ❤️
Epilogue:
Minseok Hyung❤️
> Hi baby
> Did you like the packed lunch I made for you?
Kim Jongdae
I just finished it, Hyung! <
It was soo good!!! <
I can’t believe I’ve been cooking by myself all this time when I can have my own nutritionist <
Minseok Hyung❤️
> It was good because I made it with love
> None of my patients get this kind of special treatment, lucky you
> Anyway Dae, I’m texting because I’ve been meaning to ask you
> Did it hurt when you fell?
Kim Jongdae
Lucky me indeed <
Fell from what? <
I didn’t fall <
wait <
OOOOHHHHH <
Did it hurt when I fell from heaven? Is that it? <
Hyungg, stop with the pickup lines, they’re so lamee <
Minseok Hyung❤️
> Nope
> Did it hurt when you fell from the vending machine?
Kim Jongdae
??? <
Minseok Hyung❤️
> Cause you’re a snack 😋
> Now get home fast, Dae
> I can’t wait to devour you
Kim Jongdae
Asdfghjkhghfdtwlsbvk <
🔚 🍕🍷 🔚