Archive of Our Own ^beta

Sunggyu waited for the rain to subside before getting off the bus stop. He was holding some bags with the soondae skewers that he couldn't sell and was wallowing in frustration. Sales were always low when it rained, but he still needed them to take some food.

He imagined that Jongwan would listen a lot the next day because Sunggyu used to get more emotional when he was hungry. He hadn't gotten much that night, just material for ramyeon and a box of strawberry juice.

He quickened his steps, feeling his black hair wet with the light autumn rain. When he entered his apartment building, he already had his full body shivering, from wearing only a sweatshirt to keep him warm.

What he didn't expect was to find a small brown-haired dog curled up in the cold. He was in a torn cardboard box, which made Sunggyu frown. He didn't know what to do, other than fixing his gaze on the small dog that raised his head towards him.

“Oh… are you hungry?” He asked quietly, as if the dog might answer. He heard a whimper and knelt slowly, taking three soondae off the spit and offering it. Seeing him bring his muzzle closer and start licking the pieces, Sunggyu smiled. “Good boy.”

He ran his hand over the soft fur, uncertainty. Despite trying to show some comfort, he was afraid of losing his hand with a bite from a small pet.

When the dog finished eating, he turned to face Sunggyu. He seemed to be begging for more, leaving Sunggyu dismayed.

“Hey, I was going to save it for tomorrow,” he muttered. Sunggyu looked around, wondering how it was possible that no one would have taken in this dog, almost in the rain if it wasn't for the roof of the building. Sunggyu was sure that, before leaving his house, he hadn't found any animals there.

As he sighed and offered another piece, an absurd idea popped into his mind. He chuckled low, shaking his head. He barely had enough to eat that night, how could he keep a dog in his own house?

He noted the long, soft fur. The dog looked well taken care of. Sunggyu couldn't understand why such a cute puppy was abandoned, but he thought better of it. No animal deserves to suffer and, after a long time, Sunggyu became convinced. Of abandonment, he understood well.

“Okay, you won…”

He stretched his arms towards the dog, holding him reluctantly. They both looked scared, but he took a deep breath and carried him like a baby. Even with the bags, he managed to go up with the dog to the sixth floor of the building, where his apartment was located.

“Don't be surprised by the mess,” Sunggyu muttered, while the dog sniffed at his shirt sleeve. Leaving the bags on the floor, he unlocked the door with his free hand. As soon as Sunggyu landed the dog in his apartment, he ran across the room and up to the couch.

Sunggyu smiled, closing the door and tossing the bags clumsily onto the table. He thought about calling Dongwoo, asking if he knew anything about taking care of a pet, but he was convinced to take the puppy to a shelter that would accommodate him better.

For the moment, he set aside some old boxes and rags to cover the dog for that night. Sunggyu left bowls of water and food beside him when he was more comfortable, made his own dinner, threw himself on the bed and slept soundly.

For the first time in months, Sunggyu didn't feel so suffocated when he got home. And this detail, he didn't even notice.

*~*~*~*

Sunggyu looked at the desk in the office with some dispersion. It was a few minutes before the session was over and he was already feeling a little lighter. He thanked the heavens there were free psychological treatment services, otherwise he would be even more disoriented.

“Is that all, Sunggyu-ssi?” The psychologist's voice sounded calm as he leaned across the table, watching him.

“Yes…”

Jongwan adjusted his glasses on his face before speaking again.

“The walks seem to help you a lot to not feel so lonely at home. But… what do you think about keeping the dog?”

“I don't even have money for myself,” Sunggyu said as he sat up in his chair. “I'm sure he'll be better off being adopted by someone who can take care of him.”

“Remember what we talked about?” he said stiffly, causing Sunggyu to nod in annoyance. “A company could be beneficial. That's what you told me you really wanted.”

Sunggyu didn't know what to say. In fact, he talked a lot about his concern for that dog in the session, however, he still depended on soondae sales and the salary of temp jobs he used to pay his rent.

Sunggyu promised to think about it before leaving the session. When he got home, he felt something wrap around his legs and almost slipped in surprise.

“You…” He turned his attention downward, finding the dog barking agitatedly. Sunggyu looked at the bowl in the distance, confused to realize that the animal had eaten all the food he offered earlier. “Are you still hungry?”

The dog was running over Sunggyu's pants, very anxious. Sunggyu didn't know what to do. He took out his cell phone and hurriedly dialed the number he knew best.

“Dongwoo, hi…” the dog was still snarling anxiously, distracting him. “Sorry to call now, I think it's your lunch break.”

“It's okay, hyung, you can talk.” The gentle voice on the other line made him less distressed.

“If a dog is well fed and hydrated, why would he be agitated?”

“What? Do you have a dog?”

“Just answer me…”

The line had gone silent for a few seconds, as if Dongwoo was pondering the question.

“Could have been cold or they ate something that made them sick. They would be scared by some noise or just wanting to go for a walk.”

Sunggyu listened attentively and thought about what to do. How could he walk with the puppy if he didn't have any leash?

After hanging up his cell phone, he wondered if he could tie a little string around his neck, something that wouldn't pinch him, to get him to a more open place. Maybe guide him to sales and then buy a collar with the money.

No, no collar. He won't even stay with me. He thought. Sunggyu finished his lunch, grabbed the bags, and tried to tie a string to the dog, who looked wildly agitated when he opened the door.

The afternoon had been too productive. He sold all the skewers along with the dog who stopped in a few places to relieve himself. Sunggyu was happy to be able to walk into a store with the dog in his arms. He bought supplies for a nice dinner, some kibble, and… A leash.

Sunggyu sighed as he removed the string from the dog's neck. He put the leash on and left the pet on the ground, watching him run around Sunggyu, who was relieved without the risk of accidentally choking him.

Jongwan was right. When he entered the apartment, Sunggyu wasn't as bothered by the loneliness as before. He sat on the couch and went to watch television with the dog climbing on his lap after eating the kibble Sunggyu bought. He patted his head, imagining that he might have a faithful guard to protect him from possible robberies.

“What do you think of Janggeun?” Sunggyu asked, smiling as he felt the dog try to nibble at his fingers. “Hey, you already have food. Starveling.”

The puppy continued agitated for a few seconds, until he finally laid his head on Sunggyu's lap, who caressed the soft fur again.

*~*~*~*

It hadn't been easy at first. As he predicted, Sunggyu was not very good at taking care of a pet, having to adapt his entire routine.

In the morning he left the food and water ready, even on days when he went to the psychologist. He needed to hide all his shoes and clothes before leaving to avoid losing items like in the early days. Luckily, the dog pooped outside the house, so Sunggyu always left the leash near the door.

The only nuisance was still leaving Janggeun alone when he needed to go to a job interview. On those days Sunggyu dressed up as best he could to wait for long hours before being attended to. When he returned in frustration, the puppy would jump on his legs, begging for a walk.

I wanted time to feel sad. Sunggyu thought as he climbed the stairs. There were new notices hanging on the walls, but he was so tired he avoided reading them. He hoped it wasn't dangerous at all. Last time, he almost got into the broken elevator.

When he got home, there was talcum powder all over the floor. The criminal was biting the talcum powder with the brown hairs painted white. Sunggyu rolled his eyes and closed the door.

“Why do you hate me?” Sunggyu asked, kneeling beside the dog, pulling the pot from his teeth with great resistance. “I bathed you yesterday.”

Sighing, he picked the dog up and carried him to the bathroom. He'd saved up some money from his last temp job to buy dog shampoo. During the bath, Sunggyu was more pleased to see that the talc was starting to come out of his fur.

“I guess I haven't been chosen again, so you need to stop messing around, do you hear me?” He spoke seriously, holding his jaw so the dog could see him. Despite his frustration, he gave a small smile. “At least I could buy a lot of ingredients, we'll sell them later.”

Sunggyu had been living with his dog for almost two months now, but it felt like it was longer. Maybe because he'd lost count of how many belongings were spoiled, or how much food he had to buy. Not to mention the times when he took a while to take him for a walk and the puppy decided to “paint” his floor.

After the shower, he dried him well with a towel. He spent a good few minutes preparing the skewers, putting them in bowls in big bags. Putting his puppy on a leash, Sunggyu finally left the apartment. He felt that at least sales could be productive.

Upon exiting the building, he found a brown-haired man taping a pamphlet on the wall of the store next door. As soon as he passed the man, his dog started barking, catching his attention.

Sunggyu nodded towards the stranger and started walking again, until he heard his voice sound uncertain.

“Excuse me.” Sunggyu turned around, noticing that the man was looking away from Sunggyu to the puppy and seemed surprised. “That dog… He looks a lot like mine.”

“What?”

Sunggyu's expression turned defensive. The man looked about his age and was really handsome. He wore very comfortable cold clothes that made Sunggyu feel the briefest of disgust.

If true, this is the bastard one who...

“My name is Woohyun, I live on the second floor.” He explained, still hesitant, always turning his attention to the puppy. “My Kopi has been missing for months and…”

“He's not the same dog,” Sunggyu said, slightly childishly. He gripped the chain more tightly, like self-protection. “Janggeun is mine.”

“But he looks like him. A lot,” Woohyun insisted. He turned to the dog with some anguish, as if he wanted to cry. He knelt right there, making Sunggyu startle, but Woohyun fixed his attention only on the dog. “Kopi, come here, babe.”

When Woohyun stretched out one of his arms, the dog even with the leash attached ran towards him. The man smiled broadly, as if he found his happiness, hugging the little dog that was licking one of his cheeks tightly.

Traitor.

Sunggyu managed to pull him away by the leash just as Woohyun let go of him and got up off the ground.

“What is your name?” Woohyun asked.

For a moment, Sunggyu was reluctant to respond. He didn't expect anything good from his intentions. But maybe he was being sincere.

“Sunggyu.”

“You seem to have taken good care of him, Sunggyu-ssi,” Woohyun commented, taking one of the flyers from his backpack and offering it to Sunggyu. “I don't know who stole him and how much they sold to you, but Kopi is very important to me.”

Slowly, Sunggyu's hand holding the chain accepted the pamphlet. On it was a picture of his dog lying on a gray couch, tail up. It was him.

“I increased the reward price,” Woohyun said, as Sunggyu raised his head. “But it doesn't matter how much value they sold. I'll pay double!”

Sunggyu reread the paper in his hands. That price in the corner of the pamphlet was more than he could get by working for months selling soondae. He didn't know if Woohyun was that rich or just a desperate owner, but Sunggyu would be lying if he said he didn't want to take it.

However, as he bent down to pick up his dog, he felt the tightness in his chest return. The air seemed to suffocate him like never before and so he turned to Woohyun who looked as confused as he was. The puppy was far more valuable than Sunggyu could have imagined.

“Sorry,” Sunggyu muttered, squeezing the puppy in his arms and looking away from Woohyun's sad gaze. “I can't help you.”

He hurried back to the building, the dog in his arms, hoping very much that he wasn't being followed. The heartbeat was racing and Sunggyu felt breathless as he reached his floor. He took the keys out of his pocket with shaking hands, barely managing to turn them in the door.

When he entered, he dropped the dog on the floor and threw the bags there, locking everything immediately. The puppy barked loudly, as if realizing how badly Sunggyu was shaking.

Sunggyu sat down on the floor. Maybe he needed to call his psychologist, but he felt he should keep calm first. His dog brought his muzzle closer, making him breathe heavily.

“I did this because of you, okay?” He spoke in a breathless voice. “I don't want to see you in a box again. It's not my fault if he lost you.”

The puppy whimpered, making Sunggyu pull him so he was on his lap. He hugged Janggeun lightly, feeling so afraid of returning to the solitude of before.

That's when he noticed the crumpled paper beside him. He was so nervous that he carried the pamphlet with his things. He pushed it with his leg, still shaken. No amount of money could replace Janggeun.

*~*~*~*

He didn't know exactly how much time had passed since that meeting. And Sunggyu was still thinking about Woohyun's sad look.

Sunggyu wondered what he would look like if he were in his place. He couldn't imagine what it would be like to lose his beloved dog. The only thing he knew was the fear of loneliness, which slowly returned.

The dog slept on his lap on the couch. Sunggyu let him relieve himself in a torn cardboard box and after feeding, the pet climbed onto his legs and lay there.

Maybe it wasn't really fair to leave him with Sunggyu. Not when his owner was willing to do anything to get him back. And Woohyun seemed to be better able to protect him than Sunggyu at the moment. Unemployed, with anxiety attacks and unable to find any job since he punched his ex-boss.

“What if staying with you is only good for me?” he asked quietly. The dog shook his head, making him smile sadly. “I can't be selfish. I need to think about what's best for you.”

After the crisis, he used to assimilate his decisions a little better. He rose from the couch, the dog in his arms and picked up the crumpled pamphlet on the floor, trying to unfold it as best he could. It was the address of the apartment where Woohyun lived. It was 11:00 pm, he would hardly be home.

“Do you want to find your other owner again?” Sunggyu muttered, stroking the dog's ear before working up the courage to open the door and leave the apartment.

Sunggyu walked down each flight of stairs with pain in his chest and tried to make the destination take a lot longer to arrive. When he was in front of the second floor apartment where the pamphlet indicated, Sunggyu needed a lot of willpower to knock on the door, until he heard an answer.

“I'm going!”

Sunggyu sighed, holding the puppy tightly. The door was unlocked and a tall, black-haired man appeared through it with a shocked expression. He fixed his gaze on the dog for a few seconds and seemed to feel… anger? Sunggyu hoped it was just an impression, but he still took a step back.

That wasn't Woohyun.

“Sorry… I think I mistook the apartment,” Sunggyu said, confused. But the man replied immediately, in a low tone.

“Can we make a deal?”

“What deal?”

“What do you think about taking this one...” before he finished, a voice interrupted him.

“Kopi!” The man took a step back, extremely frustrated and nervous. Woohyun approached, almost stumbling after seeing Sunggyu with his dog. He turned to the other boy with a smile. “Youngjae-yah, just a moment.”

Woohyun closed the door and Sunggyu was alone with him and the dog in the hallway.

“I knew you would come,” Woohyun commented, smiling excitedly. “You seemed a good person, so I was right.”

Sunggyu didn't know what to say. He felt bad about slowly handing the puppy over. Woohyun smiled genuinely as he held him in his arms.

“Thank you so much,” Woohyun said, stroking the dog's head. “Wait a minute, I'll take the reward for you.”

“No need, I didn't come for this,” Sunggyu explained, watching the dog for a few seconds. Woohyun noticed and brought him closer so that Sunggyu could touch him tenderly.

“You can visit him whenever you want.” Sunggyu glared at him as he massaged his brown fur. “I'm sure Kopi will like it.”

Sunggyu continued not knowing how to respond. Reluctantly, he said goodbye and watched Woohyun come home with the dog in his arms. When the door closed, Sunggyu seemed to lose his way. As if he no longer had a goal to pursue.

Coming back had been far more torturous than before. Sunggyu tried to go straight to his bed, telling himself that maybe it was for the best. He wouldn't find any more surprises beside the couch, or lose pairs of shoes. Who knows, maybe he would eat well again because he didn't have to spend on dog food.

Fixing his lost eyes on the ceiling, Sunggyu wondered how he could have regressed so much emotionally in a single day.

*~*~*~*

The week that followed without his dog had been worse than Sunggyu expected. He spent about three days indoors, surviving with rammyeon and didn't go to Jongwan's session because he was exhausted even from talking.

One of his job interviews was a complete disaster. When they insisted on knowing why he was fired, Sunggyu really tried to explain that his boss was pestering him, but he was unable to give details of what was happening. He left humiliated, with interviewers saying they would never hire a delinquent.

Sunggyu tried not to focus on it, but when he got home, he only found more silence. He ate a bit and fried the soondae poorly. His mood was bad and he felt his eyes burning, although it wasn't from the frying.

They don't understand. Even if I explained it, no one would believe me. Sunggyu sighed, taking the bags of the few skewers he could make and tried to get back to his service.

He hurried down the steps. It was like trying to run away from his bad feelings, even though they always followed him closely. It was different from when he had a little company, occupying his mind only with his dog, what food he would eat, if he needed a walk… When Sunggyu reached the second floor, he simply stalled.

The biggest reason he avoided leaving the house was because of the direction he wanted to go. His footsteps continued sluggish to where he remembered being the home of his precious dog and that desperate owner. He told me I could visit him, right?

Sunggyu was unsure and thought about turning around, figuring Janggeun, Kopi, or whatever silly name Woohyun called him, no longer remembered Sunggyu.

However, as he almost turned around, he noticed a small brown body in front of the apartment, attached to the doorknob on a leash.

What…?

He walked with hasty steps. The dog started barking excitedly at the sight of him, and Sunggyu went back to wondering what was going on. How could a dog that had just been rescued be outside the house, at risk of being hurt or stolen by someone?

Sunggyu felt anger rising in him as he approached the puppy who climbed into his arms as soon as he unwound the chain. He was ready to knock on the door and complain with that liar who feigned desperation for the dog, but he thought better of it.

“I won't make the same mistake,” Sunggyu muttered, holding him tightly. “I'll take care of you.”

He climbed the stairs, returning to his own floor. He wouldn't be back at work that day, but for a good reason. When Sunggyu released the puppy into his apartment, he couldn't describe the feeling of peace that came over him as he watched him run across the floor.

Sunggyu put the rest of the kibble in the bowl, covered him with cloth as he laid down on the old sleeping pad. And Sunggyu expected what would be one more headache in his life.

It was 10 pm when the doorbell rang. Sunggyu was sitting watching a movie and was not surprised at all, just hoping he hadn't involved the police in this.

He got up from the couch and opened the door slowly, finding Woohyun panting, leaning one arm against the wall.

He looked just as furious as Sunggyu.

“Where is he?” Woohyun asked quietly, trying to contain his nervousness. Sunggyu raised an eyebrow.

“Who? The dog you throw away and then try to get him back?”

Woohyun stared at him puzzled, as if Sunggyu was talking nonsense in another language.

“You stole my dog ​​and you're blaming me? Honestly, you're crazy!”

“I'm not worse than you,” Sunggyu retorted, gripping the doorknob firmly.  “Anyone who abandons their own dog doesn't deserve to have him back.”

“What do you mean? I never abandoned my Kopi!”

The two looked at each other angry and confused, not believing they were arguing over their own dog, both feeling more owner than the other. Woohyun got frustrated and entered the apartment, focusing only on finding Kopi. The dog was lying down, but the instant he saw Woohyun, he got up and ran to his feet.

“Let's go home,” Woohyun muttered, kneeling down to carry the pet, while Sunggyu watched everything stagnant. He closed the door in an attempt to stop him from stealing Janggeun from him.

“Do you think the way you treat him is fair?” Sunggyu asked, angrily. “I found him lost twice. Imagine if I hadn't seen Janggeun, what a stranger would have done with him.”

“I don't know what you're talking about,” Woohyun complained, looking at him irritated. “Youngjae stayed with him the day you found Kopi. I was working and he made it clear to me that my dog had run away.”

“I found Janggeun in a box,” Sunggyu stated firmly. Woohyun stared at him as if he couldn't believe it. Or he was telling the truth about the escape, but it wouldn't justify the second date. “Today he was stuck on the door handle, out of the apartment. I'm sure I wasn't the only one who saw him like that. In the same way you got my address, you might find out he wasn't inside the house when I found him.”

Woohyun didn't answer. He looked shaken, in disbelief that the “friend” had actually thrown his dog away. Sunggyu didn't care who was the guilty, he only cared about the puppy's safety.

“Even if I believe you,” Woohyun replied, after a long time in silence, “I can't let you near Kopi anymore. I don't trust you and I won't let you steal him again.”

The pain in his chest completely overwhelmed him at those words, as if he were going back to the day he was wronged. He watched Woohyun walk past him and open the door. For a few seconds, Sunggyu simply despaired.

“I've been unemployed for 6 months,” Sunggyu said, squeezing his fingers tightly. Woohyun stopped midway, turning his gaze towards him. “I sell food on the street to survive and it's not enough to pay the rent that's always late… even if I want to, I can't take care of Janggeun.” The voice was low and it was hard to try to control the heavy breathing. “But he's all I have.”

The sadness he conveyed was so visible that it made Woohyun feel bad. He held the dog carefully, not knowing what to do for long seconds. Kopi was also everything to him, but Woohyun wasn't in the same situation.

For a moment, he felt an unusual urge to comfort Sunggyu and tell him that everything would get better.

“Can I say goodbye to him?”

Though reluctant, Woohyun approached slowly towards Sunggyu, handing the dog into his arms.

The protective way he held his dog didn't cause Woohyun jealousy or irritation. Just a strange heat in his chest.

“Don't forget about me,” Sunggyu muttered, stroking Janggeun who was trying to sniff his chin. A tear rolled down his cheek, but he quickly wiped it away. “I'll think about you every day, maybe I even miss losing some gnawed shoes,” he joked, flashing a sad smile. “You'll be fine now.”

When he returned the puppy to Woohyun, Sunggyu tried to think that it would be better, but he couldn't. Woohyun stood still, as if he was still thinking about his words.

“You better take good care of him,” Sunggyu warned.

*~*~*~*

After almost two weeks without going to Jongwan's office, Sunggyu felt that this time he needed to make another consultation.

At the meeting in the morning, he cried a lot venting, which wasn't common coming from Sunggyu. Sobbing, he wondered how he could have endured so much without freaking out.

He spoke about what he suffered at work and the lack of family support since he came out. He even complained about Woohyun being an idiot for leaving his precious and helpless dog with a probably sociopath.

Jongwan offered him tissues and explained that Sunggyu shouldn't feel ashamed for venting.

“Don't say you regressed from crying, Sunggyu-ssi,” his psychologist had warned. “The fact that you're here, trying to get help, is already extremely important.”

Sunggyu probably never talked so much in a consultation, not even the first time he was there, shortly after he lost his job.

He spent a few days trying to return to his old routine, focusing on simple activities that required controlling his mind to avoid thinking about unemployment or Janggeun. He would sit on his couch after selling the soondae and watch a movie or drama on the Netflix account Dongwoo had borrowed. The idea of ​​leaving home to visit his best friend was inviting, even though Dongwoo was still traveling with his fiancée.

What he didn't expect was to hear the doorbell ring, and when he opened it, he found the last person Sunggyu wanted to see again.

“Sorry… are you busy?” Woohyun's voice sounded uncertain. He was very well dressed, which made Sunggyu imagine that he had just come from work. “I wanted to talk for a moment.”

Sunggyu quickly lowered his head, a little uncomfortable with the memories and feeling exposed. The ripped sweatshirt he wore didn't help much.

“Come in.”

Woohyun thanked him and entered the apartment slowly, heading to the couch that Sunggyu indicated, with the owner of the house sitting in front of him.

“I really wanted to apologize,” Woohyun muttered, crossing his fingers and looking down. “You're right. Youngjae confessed to me that he hated Kopi and locked him out of the house. And tried to… abandon him too.”

Sunggyu could understand the anguish present in Woohyun's eyes. Someone he trusted a lot had hurt his dear little dog more than once.

“I should have suspected,” Woohyun muttered, after long seconds in silence. “He didn't feed Kopi and told me my dog ​​didn't like the dog food. I was always changing, you know? When Kopi stayed with you, I noticed that he was eating so much better… and that woke me up.”

“Why did he hate Janggeun?” Sunggyu asked, clenching his fist upon hearing all that.

He wanted so badly to meet Youngjae again and break his mouth like he did with his old boss. They are the same trash.

Woohyun blinked, not understanding the question, but his expression changed soon after.

“Oh, Kopi? Well…” He hesitated. “Youngjae and I weren't just friends.”

Sunggyu raised an eyebrow. Okay, this I didn't expect.

“So, are you guys dating?”

“Not anymore,” Woohyun replied, seriously.

Sunggyu didn't look at him warily, or anything like that, because that would be totally hypocritical on his part. He was just surprised. Woohyun looked too good for that asshole.

“It must be hard to accept it,” Sunggyu commented. Woohyun looked at him relieved not to be criticized by him.

“We've been drifting apart lately,” Woohyun admitted, bringing one hand up to his neck, rubbing it as if he felt a lot of pain there. “I wanted to break up and he knew it. I made it clear that I couldn't handle the jealousy crises anymore and if it continued, I would end it all. But… I didn't think he'd be so disgusting as to try to hurt my dog ​​over it.”

For a few seconds, Sunggyu hesitated to respond. He understood the feeling of giving a chance to someone who didn't deserve it. Sunggyu also trusted who he shouldn't and the memories of everything still hurt him. Maybe he understood Woohyun better than he expected.

“He won't go near Janggeun anymore?” He asked.

“No,” Woohyun denied. “That's why I need someone I can trust to take care of him when I'm working.” Woohyun stared at him, hesitating for a moment. “I know I was an idiot with you the last time we saw each other.”

“It's fine,” Sunggyu said, cutting him off subtly. He didn't want to remember that night when he'd vented to a stranger. He hated feeling fragile in front of anyone, even his therapist.

Woohyun watched him confused, but still continued.

“I need someone to take care of Kopi. And he loves you, I think it would be good to try.” Sunggyu frowned in confusion, but Woohyun tried to add. “You just need to watch him for a few hours. I will pay you regularly. I understand if you want to decline.”

Sunggyu pressed his lips together thoughtfully. He didn't deny that he wanted to meet Janggeun, but he still had a little pride.

He felt like Woohyun told him, indirectly, that he was nothing but a “trustworthy person” who could take care of his dog. Sunggyu rescued, cared for and fed him for two months. Sunggyu wished he could demand more than a few bucks to keep his eyes on him.

“I'll take Janggeun. But I want to spend at least a few days with him.”

Woohyun looked confused for a few seconds, although he still smiled.

“He's yours too, right? I don't see any problems with that.”

It didn't seem so difficult to adapt to this new routine. The two agreed that Sunggyu would take the dog during his sales and stay with him until Woohyun picks him up after returning to work.

The next day, when Woohyun brought Kopi in a green collar, Sunggyu felt an indescribable peace. The dog soon jumped on his legs and Sunggyu made a point of bending down to pick him up in his arms.

“You can call me if there's a problem, Sunggyu-ssi. I already gave you my number.” Woohyun smiled, stroking his dog's fur before walking away.

When only Sunggyu and Janggeun were inside the apartment, he turned his gaze to his most prized gift.

“Did you miss me?” He murmured, getting a lick on his chin in response. Sunggyu smiled. “Let's have fun today.”

*~*~*~*

Sunggyu would guide his dog around the park until he sold at least half of the skewers. When he came home to wait for Woohyun, he felt the trouble begin.

He didn't like to see his little dog go away. Although Woohyun was kind and paid what he owed, loneliness made him feel uncomfortable. All those days were enough for Sunggyu to get used to that company. However, as time passed, Woohyun also realized this.

He was known to be much more sociable than Sunggyu and it was easy to feel comfortable around him. Sunggyu no longer hated Woohyun for stealing his dog. The smiles and kindness slowly made Sunggyu malleable.

Because of class schedules, some days he came home much earlier than 10 pm to pick up the dog. When sitting at the table, Sunggyu would sometimes notice that Woohyun was deliberately stalling, asking about his day and if he was taking care of himself.

It didn't take long for Sunggyu to enjoy his company almost as much as his dog. On the days that Janggeun slept at his house, Woohyun filled him with questions on kakaotalk. It was quite common for the two to exchange pictures of the puppy for each other.

From someone vying for his dog's attention, Woohyun became a presence that Sunggyu found interesting. They would sit on the couch together to talk about Janggeun, Kopi, or whatever nickname they used. Sunggyu had stopped feeling so lonely because of him.

"Hyung, what do you think about having dinner with me? Woohyun asked, watching Sunggyu opening a canned food. He saved money to pay his late rent and hadn't been eating very well the last few days, even though he was getting paid to take care of the dog.

Sunggyu figured that maybe Woohyun was feeling lonely lately too. He had ended a very recent relationship, and as abusive as his ex-boyfriend was, it was still painful for Woohyun to deal with.

“It won't be a problem?” Sunggyu asked uncertainty.

“Of course not.” Woohyun smiled. “I like your company.”

Going down to the 2nd floor of the building didn't seem too tiring for Sunggyu. Woohyun walked ahead of him, holding the leash tightly so that Kopi wouldn't fall.

Woohyun's apartment was a bit messy, but Sunggyu didn't feel suffocated upon entering. It was the first time in months that he hadn't sat alone at a table. Woohyun wasn't there to judge him or force him to do anything. He just offered food and a kind smile.

“I don't know how to cook very well, as you can see,” Woohyun commented, apologizing even before Sunggyu raised the chopsticks to his lips. The oldest wanted to smile when he tasted it, not understanding Woohyun's fear.

“It's great. Much better than ramyeon every day,” Sunggyu replied, flashing a smile that soon faded. Woohyun seemed to notice.

“What happened, hyung?” He asked worriedly.

“I was insecure with you since that day,” he explained, avoiding Woohyun's confused look. “I was afraid you were approaching me out of pity.”

Woohyun reflected for a moment, enjoying a piece of his dinner. Sunggyu turned his face in search of his dog. He found him in the room, biting a stuffed animal.

“I don't think you're pitiful,” Woohyun replied, making Sunggyu look back at him. “Since you vented to me, I kind of admire you.”

"Do you admire me?"

“Yes.” Woohyun gave a gentle smile. “You are so strong to have been through all this. If I had half your courage, I don't think I would insist on a lunatic who tried to get revenge on me by hurting my dog.”

Sunggyu heard him in surprise. Woohyun didn't speak as if he still had feelings for his ex. It was as if he was angry with himself. Sunggyu crossed his fingers under the table.

“You are strong,” Sunggyu stated. “And you will find someone better.”

Woohyun smiled, even though his cheeks were full of food. Sunggyu found him a little adorable, but he didn't want to admit it.

“Sometimes I feel like you didn't just rescue Kopi,” Woohyun muttered. “And I will be forever grateful for it.”

*~*~*~*

“So this is the baby you were talking about?”

Dongwoo grinned as he saw a small dog come out of a cardboard box. He even got up from the table and sat on the floor to pet the little dog who started to smell him.

This dog is very in need. Woohyun spoiled him so much. Sunggyu shook his head as he watched his best friend laughing at the puppy trying to lick his face.

Dongwoo returned from the trip with his fiancée two days ago and visited Sunggyu as soon as he had time. His company satisfied Sunggyu.

“By the way, hyung, didn't you have to be at work today?” Dongwoo asked, turning to face Sunggyu and stroking the brown fur of Janggeun.

Sunggyu took a long breath.

“I'm off today,” he lied, as he had for the past 7 months. He gave a nervous smile. “So how's it going with Mijoo? Don't take too long to set the date, otherwise she'll think you're fooling her.”

“I'm thinking about the end of the year, she wants an unforgettable wedding.” Dongwoo looked nervous as he stood up. The dog ran to a pillow to try to destroy it. “Do you want to invite someone?”

For a second, Sunggyu felt nervous. I barely have money to survive and I'll still be the best man. Who knows, Woohyun would lend him a suit. His problem was that he was a little shorter.

“Haven't thought of it yet,” he said, drumming his fingers on the table. “Maybe I'll bring a friend.”

“Just friend or…?”

“A friend,” Sunggyu said promptly.

“Okay, okay, I get it.” Dongwoo chuckled as he sat back down at the table. “Anyway, it's going to take a while to finish everything. There will still be time for you to decide.”

Sunggyu spent some time reflecting on Dongwoo's words. He didn't know how much it cost to rent a suit and figured the profit from the skewers and the money to keep his dog wasn't enough.

At 9am, Woohyun arrived at his apartment with bags to prepare fried chicken. He said that after dinner, he was looking forward to watching a superhero movie with Sunggyu. As they sat together on the couch, the dog jumped onto Woohyun's lap, demanding attention.

More than a month had passed since the two were friends. They shared dinners and sat together to watch movies.

Sunggyu felt both his dog lay his head on his lap, and Woohyun leaned on the couch, linking his arm with Sunggyu's. The light touch made him a little disoriented, not knowing exactly why.

“Hyung,” Woohyun called after long minutes of silence. “You seem quiet today. Are you tired?”

“No…” Sunggyu said. His attention turned to the dog on Woohyun's lap and started to pet him. “I'm just comfortable. I can't remember the last time I felt alone. My psyche might like to know that,” he joked, smiling awkwardly.

“Are you going to the psychologist?” Woohyun asked, surprised. Sunggyu nodded.

“Since I lost my job for punching my boss,” he said quietly, watching the dog climb off Woohyun's lap and head for his kibble.

“You don't look like someone who would hit a person for nothing,” he replied, watching him with concern. “Was he mean to you?”

Sunggyu's expression changed. The look clearly grew sadder and his lips twitched, not knowing what he could say.

Sunggyu had no problem talking about aggression, in fact, it was the best part. He remembered his hand punching the wretch as if it had been yesterday. The burning in his fingers, the blood covering the mouth that had previously tried to coax him and force him to do what he didn't want.

The reason still left him feeling sick, nauseous, dirty, “guilty”. Perhaps his shaken reaction was so obvious that Woohyun straightened up on the couch in surprise.

“Sorry, I didn't want to make you nervous,” Sunggyu felt when his arms went around his body. That closeness didn't hurt. Gradually, he felt his chest heat up.

He didn't know how much he needed Woohyun's hug until he could have it. Sunggyu took a deep breath, bringing his hands to his back, surprised at how much his warmth soothed him.

“Woohyun-ah,” Sunggyu said quietly.

“What, hyung?” Woohyun asked, resting his chin on his shoulder.

“The movie…you're loosing it.”

Woohyun's low laugh made Sunggyu shiver just a little bit.

“No problem, I've watched it many times. You are more important.”

*~*~*~*

A month flew by with Sunggyu having two more job interviews that weren't as bad as he imagined. One of the interviewers even said, with uncertainty in his voice, that he would call if they had chosen him.

He never called, although Sunggyu was used to it.

He was starting to give up looking for a job in the publicity, in which he graduated. He tried to dedicate himself to other areas, but he didn't have the ideal experience or training. Most temp jobs didn't require a college degree, but Sunggyu used to quit whenever he encountered bosses that were too authoritarian. He would prefer to be hired by women, although they would not risk choosing him because of his history of aggression.

Staying with his dog eased the frustration a little. He avoided sales that afternoon because he felt too overwhelmed to force interaction with strangers. As it was starting to snow, he preferred to let the puppy do his poop on a torn cardboard. It was better than allowing his paws to freeze in that cold.

“Today you're going to sleep here, so don't fill up with water. I'm not going to wake up at dawn to clean the floor.” The dog was gorging on the pitcher of water, barely paying attention to Sunggyu's “order”. On a sigh, he brought his hand to his head, massaging him before standing up.

It was already 7 pm when the doorbell rang. Sunggyu was surprised to open it, although he was secretly happy.

“I didn't have to teach today,” Woohyun explained with a smile. When Sunggyu let him in, he approached the dog with a bag in hand. “Kopi, come here.” Woohyun smiled as the puppy ran towards him, licking his face and receiving affection from his owner. “Hey babe, what do you think of a family walk?”

“Walk?” Sunggyu asked. Woohyun turned his face towards him.

“Yes, just the three of us,” Woohyun explained, stroking the dog's soft fur again. “I thought about buying materials for him. He will wear protective clothing, so we won't have a problem.”

 Sunggyu didn't respond. Maybe it would be good for the puppy to walk with them and it would be a distraction from the earlier frustration.

He just reflected on Woohyun's words. Gradually, it was as if he was telling the elder that he also owned Janggeun, Kopi, whatever his name was. And it was also like Woohyun made it clear that he didn't just see him as an acquaintance who took care of his dog and that they were really close.

He decided to grab one of the coats he hadn't sold out of desperation. After putting the dog's protective clothing and gloves on, they headed out of the apartment.

The pet shop was a little far from the building, so they took the opportunity to talk. Upon entering the store, Woohyun chose a new pet food, bath supplies and two teething rings. Sunggyu carried the puppy in his arms so he wouldn't try to drop anything in the store.

I wish I could help him pay. Sunggyu thought, looking away from Woohyun at the cashier. Seconds later, he returned with some bags.

“Come on, now let's have dinner.”

“Woohyun-ah.” Sunggyu watched him walk past him without listening to his reluctance.

They didn't have to walk far until they entered a restaurant, warm and comfortable, that allowed animals. The two sat across from each other at a table, tucking the dog's chain under the table.

"I can't pay for it, you know," Sunggyu said, looking around uncertainty. It seemed too expensive.

“It's a gift for you,” Woohyun added, putting his arms on the table and leaning closer to Sunggyu. “Then please accept it.”

Sighing, Sunggyu didn't try to contradict him because Woohyun was really excited. It was strange to realize that he seemed happy to have Sunggyu's company.

He didn't stop smiling when Woohyun took some of the food from the bag, making the dog eat it straight from his hand. Sunggyu ordered a simple and inexpensive food, but Woohyun insisted on choosing two desserts just to persuade him to keep one.

“Thanks for dinner,” Sunggyu said as they left the establishment. As nervous as he was about not paying, Woohyun's support was always wonderful.

“We can go to my house to watch a movie,” Woohyun commented, holding the small bags in one hand. Sunggyu was steadily guiding the leash when he gave him a curious look. Woohyun added quickly. “If you want, of course.”

Sunggyu smiled and nodded, pleased to see Woohyun's excitement. The two walked, side by side, with the puppy being guided by them.

The return had been pleasant for Sunggyu, who caught Woohyun staring at him twice, and found him clearly uncomfortable to hear from Sunggyu that he had met an ex from high school during the sales. He even felt Woohyun put his arm around his shoulders as he walked.

It was a simple touch that used to bother with another else, but with Woohyun it was always different.

*~*~*~*

Jongwan's most recent consultation was very enlightening. The psychologist advised him about the thoughts that were bothering Sunggyu so much in those days. Like isolation and Sunggyu being afraid to depend on friends even when he needed support. Mainly Woohyun, which he quoted more than ten times during the entire consultation.

After leaving the clinic, Sunggyu found himself trying to have some fun with his little dog. He took a throwing disc along for the walk and kept throwing it for the puppy to catch. However, the dog was slow to understand his demand, staring at Sunggyu with his tongue out and tail wagging.

It took long minutes for the dog to run after the disc three times, until Sunggyu gave up and took him to sell the food.

When they got home after dark, Sunggyu put in the dog food and made some coffee. As he took a few sips, he heard his cell phone ring. He took it out of his pocket and a small smile appeared on his lips as he read the message.

“My students hate me. Nobody pays attention in my class.” Woohyun complained, sending a sighing bear sticker that made Sunggyu laugh.

“Fail them all,” Sunggyu replied.

It took a long time for him to receive any messages in return. Sunggyu figured that Woohyun had already returned to class and as the oldest got ready to put his phone away, the notification reappeared.

“I miss you, hyung. I want to see you.”

Sunggyu reread the message countless times with a smile. He thought about deflecting it, but he didn't want Woohyun to get it wrong and feel hurt.

“Woohyun-ah, watch your cell phone, if you don't want us both to be unemployed. Remember that Janggeun needs to eat.”

“Anyway… I'm waiting for you here.”

He ended the conversation with a few hearts, figuring Woohyun would like it. Even as he put his cell phone in his pocket, he couldn't stop smiling.

“What?” Sunggyu asked when he noticed the dog watching him, wagging his tail. “You cannot judge me. Did you forget the poodle you tried to approach yesterday?”

The dog whimpered and began to circle his leg. Sunggyu felt silly talking to a little dog that didn't understand him, but maybe he was actually in a good mood.

That's when he heard another message notification. He reached into his pocket for his cell phone and sat down at the table. He thought it was Woohyun, but the notification came from an email received.

Sunggyu stopped smiling as he recognized the email address. His hands began to shake, and for a moment he felt his body get weak.

“I ask you to come to my office urgently, on a proposal of your interest. I'll be waiting right now. Sign: Lee Jungyeop.”

“Why?” Sunggyu shivered. He felt his pants being pulled and stared at his dog who started barking.

Even nervous, he climbed down from the chair, bending down to pour water for the dog, who took it immediately.

“I'll have to leave… but I'll be back soon, I promise,” Sunggyu said, stroking his fur uncertainty. He already felt bad before he knew what he would hear.

He grabbed his coat, some savings for the bus, and took one last look at Janggeun before leaving the apartment.

With each step he took towards the bus station, Sunggyu felt his breath heavy. He climbed into the vehicle as soon as it parked in front of him. Everything came back to his mind, memories of what he had suffered, friends and superiors he trusted turning their backs on him knowing that Sunggyu wasn't lying.

There was nothing there that would interest him.

*~*~*~*

His old company building was still as he remembered it. Sunggyu's steps were fast enough to avoid focusing on familiar faces. No one greeted him, maybe because of the shame or guilt, and he preferred it that way.

After a few steps of stairs, he made his way to the office. The secretary informed him that Mr. Lee was already waiting for him.

He knocked on the door, hearing a low “come in” which he hesitantly obeyed.

The office was spacious and very organized. The table of Mr. Lee was busy with some boxes where he kept his belongings. Upon lifting his head and seeing Sunggyu bowing respectfully, Jungyeop nodded.

“Sit down, Sunggyu-ssi,” Jungyeop ordered as he closed the second box. Sunggyu sat in the chair, being watched by the old man with a stressful expression. “I imagine you're surprised by the call.”

"Have you been fired?" Sunggyu asked, evading his comment.

“Actually, promoted,” Jungyeop explained calmly. “I will become CEO tomorrow.”

Sunggyu raised his eyebrows ironically and couldn't think of saying anything other than:

“Congratulations.”

If Jungyeop saw the sarcasm, he wouldn't demonstrate. He sat in the armchair and braced his hands on the table.

“Mr. Yoon was removed from this company” hearing that name made Sunggyu shift in his chair, uncomfortable. “Three employees denounced him… A former publicist also made a report.” Jungyeop watched him for a few seconds in silence. “We are taking all possible measures to ensure that the victims are compensated. And that includes you, Sunggyu-ssi.”

“So now you believe me?” Sunggyu's voice sounded low and ironic. He felt as if a lump had formed in his throat. “I thought I should shut up to avoid causing more trouble.”

He looked at him with the same bitterness as when Jungyeop suggested to him, when he was still the vice principal, that Sunggyu apologize for the aggression on Mr. Yoon, no matter if he had tried to force him more than once.

Jungyeop took a deep breath and continued, firmly.

“I know I was wrong, Sunggyu-ssi. That's why I called you here.” He took some documents and offered them to Sunggyu to read, which he did without any enthusiasm. “That's our deal. You've always been an exemplary employee, we understand if you don't want to return to the company, but please accept. You may return to work at one of our subsidiaries.”

“Sorry, I can't.” Sunggyu rose slowly from his chair. He was starting to feel extremely frustrated. “I won't report the company if that's your fear. But working for a subsidiary is the same as working with you again.”

Jungyeop got up from the chair as well, adjusting his suit as he continued to talk.

“Think about it, Sunggyu-ssi, I'm not doing it for the company. Kyungran-ssi is very competent as a CEO, maybe even more so than I am. You would be welcomed.” Jungyeop took the documents and offered them to Sunggyu again. “You don't need to make a decision now. We will wait for your answer.”

*~*~*~*

His dog was sleeping on the bed when Sunggyu came home. Sunggyu sighed and covered him with his coat. The documents he simply threw on a dresser.

He walked to the kitchen, looking in the cupboard for what he could cook. Maybe Woohyun will bring me something. I hope it's not too much hard to cook, I barely know how to fry soondae.

As he sat on the table, he thought about the conversation he had with Jungyeop and how much it frustrated him. Maybe he would talk to his psychologist about that decision, because he still had too many hurts and fears to deal with.

Sunggyu heard the doorbell ring and sighed. He headed towards the door, trying to behave as calmly as possible, although he suspected Woohyun would pick up on his mood.

“What's up? Aren't you happy to see me?” Woohyun asked, smiling curiously, as soon as the door opened. Am I that obvious? the oldest thought.

“I'm just tired,” Sunggyu said. “Come in, you must be hungry.”

The two went to the kitchen, and as they prepared a nice dinner together, Sunggyu was surprised to feel Woohyun's hand go to his back, massaging him gently.

"Did something happen, hyung?" He asked, close to his face.

“Why do you keep asking this?” Sunggyu smiled nervously, as his body shivered from the proximity. With gloved hands, he took a piece of carrot and brought it to Woohyun's lips, who was surprised and chewed trying not to laugh.

Dinner didn't take long. After eating, the two went to the couch. Sunggyu watched Woohyun for a few seconds as he grabbed the remote to turn on the television.

“What would you like to watch now?” Woohyun asked, concentrating on the television before turning to Sunggyu.

Without saying anything, Sunggyu just approached his face, making Woohyun freeze for a moment, until he laid his head on his shoulder.

“Anything,” he murmured, snuggling closer to his body.

“Right,” Woohyun replied, looking clearly nervous. Sunggyu smiled slightly.

The romantic comedy didn't entertain them as much. In a few minutes, they were lying on the couch and Sunggyu felt Woohyun wrap around his waist and it was impossible to pay attention to the story. Sunggyu started stroking Woohyun's soft hair, subtly going down to his cheek.

Turning his face slowly, Sunggyu noticed that Woohyun was looking at him. He seemed to silently admire him, not trying to hide the fact that he enjoyed appreciating every detail of Sunggyu. Woohyun looked down at his mouth and it didn't take long to lean in, reaching Sunggyu's lips with his own.

Sunggyu closed his eyes slowly as the kiss deepened. His hands went to the youngest's back, pulling him closer with desire. It was their first kiss and yet it felt so natural, as if they were already used to each other.

When they moved away, Woohyun looked at him with delight, a smile on his lips.

“It's okay if you're not ready to vent now,” Woohyun murmured, placing a soft kiss on Sunggyu. “But this was something I needed to do as soon as possible.”

Sunggyu felt his lips part in a wide smile. He caressed Woohyun's face slowly, before pulling him closer, in a long, sweet kiss that the two of them waited for longer than they should have.

*~*~*~*

“Would you like to take it?”

Sunggyu looked in the mirror for long minutes. The suit fit his body perfectly and matched his black hair. It had been a while since he'd looked so elegant. Dongwoo would be pleased to see him, Mijoo would be grateful to see him well dressed at her dream wedding. Woohyun would certainly fill him with praise.

It made him smile.

Maybe I should accept the compensation. It's my right, isn't it? He thought, turning his body a little to get a better look at his side. With a sigh, he started to unbutton his suit. It had been two weeks since that meeting and he still hadn't made a decision.

He was looking so hard for a job, but when he found it...

“Sir?” The dressing room door was gently slammed by the attendant. “Would you like some help?”

“I'm leaving now,” Sunggyu warned, removing his suit completely and putting on his warm clothes again.

The money he saved might be enough for the suit rental, but he was still the best man. He thought it was unfair not to be able to buy a good present for both of them. When leaving the store, he remained with this doubt.

Except for his therapist, he couldn't vent to anyone about the proposal, not even Woohyun. Since their first kiss, the two spent more time taking care of the dog or cuddling on the couch watching television. Woohyun didn't lie when he said he wouldn't force him to say anything and Sunggyu felt comfortable that way, at least to some extent. He wanted to be able to vent.

He reached the second floor of the building and rang the doorbell. Woohyun didn't have to work that day and was already at home. The door opened immediately and the youngest smiled holding a can opener.

“How was it?” He asked, allowing Sunggyu in and heading back to the can of dog meat. When he opened it, he poured the entire contents into the bowl.

“I found a good one,” Sunggyu commented, sitting next to him at the table. “But I won't take it until I have more money.”

“I can help you,” Woohyun replied, adding right after seeing Sunggyu's displeasure. “You owe me later. You can pay with kisses, if you prefer."

"Very funny," Sunggyu joked, elbowing him lightly and laughing along with Woohyun.

It was amazing how, in the few months they had known each other, Woohyun always knew how to make him less insecure, knowing exactly what to say.

He watched him set the bowl down beside the chair and call Kopi incessantly until the dog came towards the food. When Woohyun turned to Sunggyu, the oldest took a deep breath.

“My old company contacted me,” Sunggyu commented. Woohyun listened attentively. “They want to compensate me for what my former boss did.” Sunggyu smiled, even without humor. “Looks like he's got four sexual harassment lawsuits and… I think they're afraid I'm the fifth.”

Woohyun was clearly disturbed. It was the first time Sunggyu had said out loud what had happened.

“Will he be arrested?” Woohyun asked quietly, as if he was trying to contain his anger.

“Hardly, he's rich. The damages shouldn't even affect him.”

Woohyun nodded in frustration. He approached slowly, hugging Sunggyu protectively, making the oldest smile even with the tightness in his chest.

“I would do anything to make sure this didn't happen to you,” he muttered after a while.

“It's okay, Woohyunie.” Sunggyu stroked his back. “It's over now.”

Woohyun shook his head, pulling away a little, though not far enough to break the hug.

“Is that why you are nervous these days?”

“Also,” Sunggyu admitted, smiling nervously. “They want me to go back to work. In a subsidiary company.”

“Isn't that a good thing?” he asked, uncertainty.

Sunggyu took a long breath.

“I'm afraid to go back,” he said, looking away. “I've waited so long for this job, but now… I don't know what to expect from it. I don't want to blame myself again if it happens again.”

“But it wasn't your fault,” Woohyun argued, glaring at him. “You were a victim. The least they can do is pay for what they did.”

Sunggyu still had his shoulders around him, but he didn't know what to say. The eyes met again and he wondered how everything had changed. For months alone, he was almost giving up on everything. Until he found motivations that made him want to try again.

“I'm not the only one who thinks this,” Woohyun added, making Sunggyu frown.

Woohyun walked away and quickly followed the dog that was biting a bear's arm. Woohyun lifted him in his arms.

“Kopi, what does your second daddy deserve?” He asked, getting a long lick on his face. He patted the puppy's head. Sunggyu watched everything, chuckling and shaking his head. “Exactly. What a smart boy.”

“What did he say?” Sunggyu teased as Woohyun approached the table to sit down with the dog on his lap.

“Many things,” Woohyun joked, but turning to Sunggyu and speaking with conviction. “He knows you still can't believe that anything will be better, but we are here to take care of you.”

Sunggyu didn't know what to say. He brought his fingers to the dog's head, stroking him.

“And what else?”

Woohyun looked pleased to see that Sunggyu liked what he heard. He spoke again, his gaze on the dog.

“He also said you're pretty and have soft lips.”

“Okay, I've heard enough,” Sunggyu muttered, laughing and shaking his head.

Woohyun chuckled, but this time his gaze at Sunggyu was firmer, silently admiring him.

“I love you,” Woohyun said.

Sunggyu's heart warmed intensely. It felt so good to feel the strong beats, which didn't hurt or cause him to be short of breath.

“Was it Janggeun who said that?” he asked, too nervous to be so direct at the moment. Woohyun smiled.

“It was me,” he said. He lowered his gaze towards the dog before continuing. “But if you must know, he loves you too.”

Sunggyu chuckled, leaning in for a brief kiss. The dog seemed to move between the two, so they walked away.

“I love you guys too,” Sunggyu muttered quietly, making Woohyun look at him expectantly.

Woohyun stretched to leave the dog carefully on the floor. Sunggyu smiled as he leaned over the chair to approach their lips.

When the kiss intensified, the two got up and followed together to the bedroom, lying on the bed.

The kisses spread over his body and Woohyun's hands on his skin made him shudder. Sunggyu didn't know how many hours the two spent between the sheets, seeming to fit in perfectly. The pain he felt was already non-existent.

When Sunggyu realized, they were both exhausted on the bed, panting. Woohyun hugged him tight and said he loved him so many times before closing his eyes. Sunggyu stroked his brown hair, feeling his heart warm.

“I love you so much,” he murmured, kissing his forehead. Sunggyu just didn't expect Woohyun to smile upon hearing it, squeezing the oldest in his arms.

*~*~*~*

It didn't take long for Sunggyu to receive the compensation. The weeks flew by and he used the money to pay his late rent, buy a suit and gifts for his best friend's wedding. The rest he saved to last until his first paycheck.

Sunggyu put on his best social clothes without thinking that he might not be able to. He needed to make it.

“You look beautiful,” Woohyun commented with a smile, hugging him from behind. He was agitated that morning, as anxious as Sunggyu.

“Is it okay to stay with Janggeun today?” Sunggyu asked as he straightened his tie.

“Of course, hyung. I'm only going to teach at night. I'll be correcting some tests at home,” Woohyun muttered as Sunggyu turned around. “Besides, the last time I looked at him, he was sleeping in his bed.”

He nodded in agreement before kissing Woohyun and leaving his room. It was customary for the two to swap rooms. The night before, Sunggyu insisted on sleeping in Woohyun's home because he was anxious. He only was able to relax through the distractions and cares of his boyfriend.

Just like Woohyun's words, his puppy was lying on the bed. Sunggyu smiled and approached, kneeling down to lightly stroke the fur.

“Wish me luck,” Sunggyu said, glad he hadn't woken the dog. He got up and left the apartment.

It took 30 minutes for him to get off the bus and stop in front of the indicated building.

That company was almost as big as the one he worked for before. He climbed the stairs, taking in his surroundings. He approached the secretary, hearing her say to wait a few minutes. He thanked her and walked over to a comfortable armchair, placing the folder on his lap.

Mr. Lee talked to him, right? I don't want to be rejected for refusing to talk about the firing. He watched the clock on the wall indicating 8 am. He managed to arrive on time, preparing in advance.

The secretary finally called him and Sunggyu walked hesitantly towards the door, excusing himself as he knocked.

“Come in.” The soft voice made Sunggyu shudder as he gripped the doorknob. He frowned.

Wait… The door opened slowly and Sunggyu entered, quite surprised. Footsteps guided him to the next table where an elegant woman in her mid-40s was seated.

She shook her head as Sunggyu bowed towards her.

“Sit down, Sunggyu-ssi,” Kyungran ordered, watching him briefly. “Looks surprised. Jungyeop-ssi didn't report anything about me?”

“He said you could be more competent than him,” Sunggyu replied, smiling nervously. “Which, frankly, I didn't doubt in no time."

Kyungran chuckled briefly, settling in the chair.

“He warned me that you're good with words.” She commented.

The two talked for long minutes, Kyungran was clearly amazed at the advertising projects that Sunggyu had done at the old company and evaluated some of his ideas.

“Jungyeop-ssi seems to be right about you being one of his best employees, but I confess I'm surprised.” Kyungran rested her chin on her hand. “I was a little unsure about accepting any nominations from Jungyeop-ssi since Mr. Yoon's cases. We're even considering ending the partnership.” Sunggyu squeezed his fingers under the table nervously, though Kyungran smiled. “But…maybe I'm curious about what you have to offer. You can start tomorrow.”

Sunggyu had been so genuinely surprised that Kyungran began to smile. He thanked her before standing up and bowing politely. Even as he left the office, he could hardly believe it.

“Woohyun-ah, Woohyun-ah!” When Sunggyu arrived at the apartment, the first thing he did was knock incessantly on Woohyun's door. His boyfriend took a while to open it, his hair was messy and his face was sleepy. Sunggyu glanced at the couch, noticing some scattered sheets of paper. He turned to Woohyun. “Have you fallen asleep?”

“No,” he gave a long yawn, rubbing one of his eyes. “Actually, there were a lot of tests, so…”

“I understand.”

Sunggyu entered the apartment, helping Woohyun organize the papers on the table. His boyfriend sat on the couch and calmly pulled him by the hand, so that the two of them were together. Sunggyu smiled as he had Woohyun lay his head on his shoulder. Sunggyu wanted to break the news, but he would have hoped Woohyun was more awake.

“I hate finals,” Woohyun muttered childishly. “Why did I graduate in physics?”

“I have no idea,” Sunggyu joked. He wondered if his boyfriend had sighed or yawned. “Woohyun-ah… I did it.”

It took a few seconds for Woohyun to understand what he was saying. He slowly raised his head, blinking confusedly, until a wide smile slowly broke out.

“I knew it! I knew you will make it,” Woohyun commented, hugging him tight and standing up. “Where's Kopi? Let's celebrate together as a family.”

Sunggyu watched Woohyun go to the room to get their dog. It didn't take long for Woohyun to bring him, approaching the couch.

“I found this brat almost running out of toilet paper,” Woohyun complained. The dog just whimpered in his arms. “I can't even nap for a few seconds.”

“What shall we do with him? I don't want to leave him alone when we're at work,” Sunggyu muttered, bringing his fingers to his muzzle.

“Next year, maybe I can work out the hours,” Woohyun explained. “And the two of us with steady jobs can move into the same apartment and hire a caretaker. Someone who doesn't hurt him.”

Sunggyu was silent, nodding. None of them could trust anyone with that puppy since Woohyun's ex, but they were hoping that would change. The two would adapt.

The afternoon flew by with them strolling through the streets of Seoul. They led the dog by the leash and walked hand in hand. Sunggyu felt light, more than in his entire life.

At night, Woohyun went to work and didn't return until 10:00. Sunggyu was waiting for him in his apartment after filled the dog's water bowl.

“You must be tired,” Sunggyu commented upon noticing Woohyun plopping himself down on the couch.

“Not for you,” Woohyun muttered as Sunggyu approached. The oldest smiled and stroked his hair. Woohyun enjoyed the caress with his eyes closed.

“You better lie down soon,” Sunggyu said, but before he walked away, he felt Woohyun's hands wrapped around his waist, pulling him closer for a long kiss.

Woohyun's lips moved intensely, as if a few seconds ago he hadn't been almost asleep. On impulse, Sunggyu got up, without breaking the kiss, only to sit on his boyfriend's lap who gasped in surprise.

The kiss became more needy, with Woohyun squeezing him around the waist, bringing him closer. He felt Woohyun's hands enter his shirt, touching his skin. Sunggyu gasped as Woohyun's lips trailed down his neck and the oldest reached for his shirt, unbuttoning the first few buttons.

The two almost moved away when they heard a loud barking though. Sunggyu tried to ignore it, still unbuttoning Woohyun's shirt, but his boyfriend looked scared, stopping kissing his neck.

“Not now, Kopi,” Woohyun complained, nervous as he tried to move his leg from the dog that was pulling his pants. Sunggyu looked confused, but Woohyun grabbed his chin and kissed him for a long time, willing to ignore that his dog wouldn't stop biting his pants.

“Woohyunie, I can't.” Sunggyu pulled his lips away and started laughing hard, right after the dog jumped on the couch and barked at them. Woohyun followed him, laughing in disbelief that they had been interrupted by their dog.

“I think he needs a walk,” Woohyun commented, sighing as he saw Sunggyu get up from his lap. “See what you did?" He asked, still laughing to the puppy who kept whimpering.

“Just go, I took him last time,” Sunggyu said. Woohyun looked at him a little embarrassed.

“I'm going…”

It took a few minutes for Woohyun to leash the puppy and grab his coat. He looked at Sunggyu regretfully.

“Let's continue later. Before I pass out from sleep,” he muttered, almost walking out the door.

“Don't be long,” Sunggyu said, yawning. “Otherwise, I'll be the first to sleep.”

*~*~*~*

Sunggyu didn't shed a single tear at Dongwoo's wedding, but his boyfriend, who barely knew the bride and groom, cried a little.

When the celebration began, the two sat alone at a table. Sunggyu really wanted to introduce Woohyun to his friends and couldn't describe how happy he was.

“I can't believe it took more than a year for them to get married,” Sunggyu commented, his eyes fixed on the newlyweds. Mijoo danced in a weird way and Dongwoo collapsed with laughter.

“They look very happy,” Woohyun commented, his eyes shining as he watched them. Sunggyu shook his head.

“They are crazy a lot, I worry about the children.”

After laughing, Woohyun went back to drinking his wine. Sunggyu stared at him for a few seconds, before bringing his fingers to his tie, straightening it.

The doubt of what his life would have been like, without the two companions he loved most, quickly overwhelmed him. He made sure to push that thought away. It was customary to think about unpleasant things when he least wanted to, but he was getting better at it.

It was part of Sunggyu's therapy to try to recognize the bad thoughts he had every day. Even with a new job, a good boss, a comfortable apartment with Woohyun and his dog, he still felt like he needed to constantly see Jongwan again. His psychologist insisted that therapy was important for everyday life, even if the problems seemed small.

Woohyun watched Sunggyu's distracted look after straightening his tie and raised his eyebrow.

“What are you thinking?”

Sunggyu blinked though, then smiled.

“About you.”

“I hope it's a good thing,” the youngest said, smiling.

“Obviously it isn't,” he joked.

The ceremony had been long and fun. Sunggyu and Woohyun ate well before greeting the newlyweds once more. Mijoo looked so beautiful and in 10 years of friendship, Sunggyu has never seen Dongwoo smile so happy.

Sunggyu was proud to introduce Woohyun to everyone he knew there. He would hold him by the shoulders and watch Woohyun shake hands or bow to them. Woohyun prostrated himself firmly beside him, making a point of introducing himself to everyone as Sunggyu's boyfriend.

“Should we call the daycare and ask if Janggeun is okay?”' Asked Sunggyu, when the two were on the dance floor. The music was soft and there were several couples around. Maybe he had the occasional judgmental look in their direction, but neither of them cared.

“Kopi was playing when we left. I'm sure he's fine,” Woohyun replied in his ear. Sunggyu nodded.

“We need to get that name fixed,” he said quietly, making Woohyun laugh.

“We already discussed this, hyung… And Kopi came first.”

“Yes, but Janggeun is better.”

The two laughed lightly and continued hugging, putting their heads on each other's shoulders as they enjoyed the music.

They were at peace.