Chapter Text
Exactly when your life is going way too perfectly, you start wondering when the bad will happen, just how everything goes way too smoothly to be real, when it seems like a dream you don't want to wake up from, the calm before the storm, that's how Yeonjun would describe the events one year ago, sadly for him, the storm hit harder and left behind a heartbroken boy, scared of future and with a scar that's hardly closing in.
Going back in time one year ago, Yeonjun had everything anyone would wish for, a supportive family, great friends, a scholarship at one the most prestigious universities in Korea for which he has studied and worked so hard and, besides all of this, the best partner he could have asked for, Soobin was for him the best thing that could have happened in his life, he loved him with his whole heart, they have been together ever since high school started till they graduated together, they had all of their future planned, Yeonjun was anticipating the future the most, he liked thinking about it and how beautiful it will be. Except life had taught him to never dream to far in the future and how unpredictable it can be; one day you're smiling and the next you're grieving.
What was even harder to accept besides the fact that his lover wasn't by his side anymore, was just how he left him in the peak of their happiness, how he couldn't do anything to save him, he just laid there watching the smile on his face fade forever, the eyes that he could stare in for hours staying closed and lose their stars and shining, just his whole hope dying along with his boyfriend. Everyone that has been around him in that time can say just how affected the male was by his loss, how he wanted to give up on everything, how he had almost done it. At first, they understood why he was like this, it was normal, he was still in disbelief, in shock, and he needed time, a lot of time apparently.
Though this is what it meant he has a supportive family, while there were people who were giving him weird looks because he was still in a sort of depressed mood after his lover died, even if months had passed ever since, and that he should have just treated it as a break up and move on, but those were people who never experienced what he had with Soobin, the love they shared and the feelings they had for each other, he couldn't describe it in words how perfect it was and they were, but his family had been supportive of him, they knew how much they cared of each other, how much Yeonjun had loved Soobin and how precious his relationship with him was, they understood him and they respected his decision that he needed time to recover before doing anything else.
And so the past year had passed like this, Yeonjun taking a year break and not going to university, they have talked about it and they could have made an exception for him and still have the scholarship the next year he will join, but he refused, he wasn't prepared to take a decision regarding his studies at that time, as passionate as he was about studying before and getting in a good school, all his passion was taken away, he didn't have the will to do anything, nothing made him happy anymore and couldn't bring himself to find something to bring that up again, everything was dull, useless and never in his life he has felt as empty as he did in this year.
He didn't realize how fast the time has passed until he was put again in the decision place whether to continue his studies or not, and it shouldn't be a hard one, but he balanced everything, he could have continued and spend the next years of his 20s on university desks surrounded by people who either don't care or are too interested in themselves only, or just look for a job and earn money, it wasn't a bad thing the latter, he could have easily found something to fill his time, but he didn't want to be stressed because of it, and if he chose to follow the prestigious university as he didn't do anything for the past year, it would have been too difficult, so Yeonjun finally made a decision and enrolled in a local university, in arts major, more specifically film, he won't say he chose this major as Soobin had always dreamed of becoming a director, and if he's not able to become one, Yeonjun might as well take this chance and make his dream come true, doing this for him might help him get better and feel that he's doing something right.
Finally the great first day of university arrived and Yeonjun couldn't realize if he's feeling excited, tired or trying too hard to pretend to be fine, not to say he's probably the oldest among the freshmen as he took the year break and feels like a whole intruder, everyone else around him smiling and being all happy to reunite with probably high school mates, some happy to taste the freedom of being away from their parents, but his mood right now can mostly relate to the seniors who looked already done with their life and wishing to graduate. The male also hasn't realized he was just standing frozen in a place while people passed by him, probably wondering what's going on with him, until he felt a hand on his shoulder that startled him.
"Come on, tense down, you look at the building like you're seeing an alien or something" Taehyun spoke while he patted his shoulder in hopes it will make the older relax a bit.
"Well, it's not my fault that I feel odd, not to mention we are in the same class despite our ages" Yeonjun defended himself pretty much uselessly because Taehyun sighed.
"Hey this year off did you well, and take it as an advantage okay, you aren't completely alone, knowing you right now it'll really be hard to make friends on your own, thankfully I am here to help you as well, but you have to cooperate as well, so don't stay quiet the whole time and engage okay" the shorter advised him and with these words he shut him down as he just started walking in front, making the taller follow him.
Yeonjun tried not to dwell too much on his words, he knew he was right and try to prove him wrong was useless because Taehyun was too smart firstly and secondly no matter what he would say, he knows as well that still the other is right in everything he says, so all he can do now is follow him and wish for the best, for a change to come, and him finally moving on.
Reaching the class of their first course, it was already filled with students, some alone, some in small groups having a chit-chat before the teacher would come, and Taehyun drags him in a more reserved row, trying to make everything for Yeonjun's best, not getting much attention towards them, but a good one to focus on the teacher as well and not get distracted by the other students. Soon the room was filling up with the remaining students and the teacher entered as well, presenting himself and was preparing the small presentation about the course and what they'd be studying here, when a knock on the door disturbed the silence and it opened, revealing a boy in a checkered shirt over a plain black t-shirt, panting while fixing his glasses on his nose bridge and bowing deeply at the teacher.
"Hello, I'm so sorry, the bus was full so I had to walk here and then mixed up the buildings and I ran late" the boy apologized speaking in a whole single breath, making some students chuckle probably because of his innocent appearance and the situation given.
Hopefully the teacher was an understanding person and let him take a seat, the boy thanking him multiple times before he finally gathered himself and looked over the crowd of students all eyeing him. If Yeonjun was in his situation he probably would get all shy and embarrassed and wouldn't even look at them, but this one was different, he still smiled as if he isn't now known to the whole class as the guy who was late on his first course, it was rather surprising to see someone like him. He was way too caught up in his thoughts that he only realized it the moment the said boy was sitting in his left, it was apparently the only free seat, but for some reason Yeonjun didn't feel awkward around him, moreover as they locked eyes for a brief second, seeing the boy smile so brightly, it made him smile a bit in his direction before he focused on the teacher again as he resumed his presentation.
Under the table, Taehyun nudged him in his leg, making him turn to his friend who was giving him a teasing smile, probably has witnessed clearly how he smiled at the boy sitting next to him, as it truly warmed Taehyun's heart to see him smiling again after so long. He didn't say anything but rather pointed to just pay attention to the teacher, which he did till the end of the class, but he can't lie that he wanted to turn more towards the late boy.
The break finally came, the majority of the students present already packing their stuff prepared to leave for their next classes, but the boy next to them was truly taking his time, not that either Yeonjun and Taehyun minded, more actually, Taehyun took this as an advantage to greet the boy.
"Hey, nice way of entering the university life, man, you probably won't forget this day, right?" Taehyun spoke to the boy in glasses who turned almost instantly at his voice, realizing he was talking to him, having Yeonjun just between them who stood silently watching his friend befriend him.
"Say no more, if only that old lady didn't push me when I wanted to get in the bus, saying 'You are young boy, just walk’, maybe I would have been on time and not rush to get to class and also miss this building, but yes amazing way" the boy spoke so cheerfully and the imitation of the old lady's words had Taehyun chuckle and Yeonjun contain a wide smile since it was fun, he can't lie.
"You're fun for sure, I'm Kang Taehyun, nice to meet you!" he introduced himself to the taller, extending his hand for a hand shake.
"Cool name, I'm Choi Beomgyu, nice to meet you too!" the boy smiled while shaking hands with Taehyun before glancing towards Yeonjun suddenly, which caught him off guard. "What about your handsome friend?" he asked and the sudden compliment has Yeonjun blushing from the tip of his ears to the deep of his cheeks.
Taehyun did look at Yeonjun, noticing how his ears got so red, he was so easily to get flustered, and Beomgyu was apparently a direct person, he didn't hesitate to say what firstly comes to his mind, and now waited to see if Yeonjun will actually say something or he has to present him himself.
Hopefully, Yeonjun did muster his courage to speak. "I'm Choi Yeonjun" short and quick but better than nothing right?
Beomgyu's eyes almost sparkled at Yeonjun as he introduced himself. "Woah another Choi? That's so cool, we'll definitely get along" he said enthusiastically already and Taehyun definitely sensed good vibes from the male, and he hopes Yeonjun will actually accept him, the other seems interested in being his friend so he can only be glad for that.
Before Yeonjun would even get to say something, it was Taehyun pushing them to get out from the row and have them walk out of the class to head to their next one.
"Oh, Beomgyu are you also majoring in film?" the shortest asked curiously only to see the other nodding eagerly.
"Yup, I heard this university’s film major is really good so I enrolled and hopefully got accepted, though I don't know anyone here, I come from Daegu, I moved here just few weeks ago, I'm still accommodating to the Seoul life and all the new faces, but I'm glad I already got to meet you two" he explained and gave away more information about himself that both the other two found interesting, well it was already easy to say he's not from here from his accent, but it made him special in this way.
Beomgyu had a lot of energy, he was almost like a ball of energy which recharged by being surrounded by great people who can match his energy, or maybe even give some to those like Yeonjun who kept quiet and listened to the two talking and getting to know Beomgyu through Taehyun who asked more questions and Beomgyu himself who gave a lot on information about himself in just one sentence.
Yet Beomgyu is also very curious, so he tugs on Yeonjun's shirt to get his attention, looking at him with puppy like expression that would melt you in an instant looking directly in his eyes, and fool Yeonjun did so and froze again in his place, almost not even getting what Beomgyu asked. "Yeonjun, are you feeling sick or something? You haven't really spoken" this time he spoke with a slight concern in his voice as well as he took in his features, looking for anything that would give away he's feeling somehow bad, but he couldn't see anything.
Yeonjun hadn't expected Beomgyu to be this observant, and the way he just searched his face, the slight concern in his voice, why did he act so similar to Soobin? Not wanting to think of the last part, he just cleared his throat, gathering his words as good as he can. "Ah, no it's not that, I'm just...uhm...." at his stutter now he wanted to just hide in a corner and never leave, cursing at himself, mentally hoping for Taehyun to speak for him and help him not embarrass himself even more.
"He's just shy with new people, it's harder for him to open up, so that's why he's quiet now, I assure you he's cool but he needs...time" Taehyun did save his friend by this, but he also tried to put it in the best way not revealing the real reason, or giving away much information that needed, but it seems Beomgyu didn't need more.
"Oh...don't worry about that I won't pressure on you to talk, whenever you feel okay with it, I don't want to make someone uncomfortable in any way" Beomgyu explained and smiled again brightly and Yeonjun was touched by how considerate Beomgyu was, and just how that smile makes him feel safe.
With the small conversation they had, hopefully for Taehyun still knowing where they needed to get and reached their next class without getting lost, and Yeonjun surprisingly didn't get lost in his thoughts again, all three of them sitting again together, silently realizing this is how they will be sitting from now on at the classes, truthfully Yeonjun felt more relaxed this way, not only because he has Taehyun by his right side, but the bright boy in his left makes sure he doesn't step over the boundaries and lets him in his own pace of opening up, he actually thanks anyone who listened to him to not give him a nosy person or anything, he doesn't feel pressured, he feels contently for the first time in a long time.
The cycle of classes continued till they were finally done for the day and while packing everything, he can't help but wonder where Beomgyu is staying, or if he's living on the same way to his and Taehyun's places, but he was too shy to ask that, would it be too much from the first to ask, would the other consider it weird, especially coming from him and how shy he is, but he doesn't want to leave that fast, contrary to his initial mood when he arrived on the university campus this morning and everything he wished for was to return home, but maybe it was finally a sign he can live his life again like he used to, this time with two friends by his side.
But deeply he knew he couldn't stay quiet forever and wait for others to ask him questions, or simply tag along if they suggest going somewhere, so he embraces all the courage in him to speak.
"Ahm....Beomgyu?" A slow start but steady as his voice didn't tremble as he faced the boy who turned to him with his innocent look, anticipating Yeonjun's words.
Now or never, Yeonjun, he thought to himself before he continued. "Do you want to grab some ice cream with us?"
Whether it was too straightforward or coming off as a friendly invitation, he couldn't read anything bad on Beomgyu's face, just his eyes sparkling at the idea of ice cream as he let out an excited squeal.
"Really? Can we go? I love ice cream, do you know any good places around, I'd really wish to see more of this city with you guys since you've been probably living here for a while right?" Beomgyu spoke with such enthusiasm that would make anyone's day better just by listening to him or simply watching him react like this to the most regular things.
Taehyun on the other side felt so happy to see his best friend mustering his courage to speak up first to Beomgyu, even more to ask him to hang out with them, the whole summer he has tried to help him to not be afraid to suggest a meeting up or just anything, especially now with Beomgyu and how the boy doesn't seem to refuse anything either of them would suggest, it was a good beginning and he's proud of him for it.
For a slight moment Yeonjun was silent, choosing his words in his mind before he spoke, not because Beomgyu asked something so difficult, but it was already much for him to take, it's been a while he met someone as talkative and excited like Beomgyu, and that other person is Taehyun.
"Yeah, me and Taehyun were born here, so I guess we can show you around, and we do know a place, shall we go there?" the only uncertainty that should not even exist was almost unnoticeable, which was a good thing.
Beomgyu took the new information gladly and nodded before both of them turned to Taehyun, who chuckled at how anticipatingly they were looking at him and waiting for his answer, as if he would refuse.
"Of course, you'll like the place" he said smiling and started walking with the others, it wasn't needed to say the place they would be heading, both him and Yeonjun know the place, but Taehyun is wondering how Yeonjun will be taking it since it's been a while they have been there firstly, and secondly, it'll open up a box of memories.
Yeonjun's mind automatically said ice cream because it was the place him and Soobin used to go all the time, and it is true ever since his passing he hasn't gone to the place and he doesn't still know if he can handle all the memories that will flash upon his eyes at the view of it, but then Taehyun's words fill his mind and never exit on the ear, the shorter has told him that visiting places he used to go with him now might help him move on, but he isn't sure of that, especially since he has walked along the other two thinking about it, his legs just went on auto pilot, already knowing the way to the ice cream shop. The view of the colorful sign above the entrance, open up one of the dearest memories made here.
Soobin was dragging happily his boyfriend by his hand towards the entrance of the ice cream shop that greeted their view and would be their date place today, a perfect one for the scorching heat in this summer day. Yeonjun was smiling back with the same feeling upon seeing the dimples in Soobin's cheeks as he was so excited about it, despite already losing count of how many times they have already come here, yet their excitement never dies, at least for Yeonjun because he enjoyed being anywhere as long as he was with him.
"I suppose we're getting the same, unless you make the shocking revelation you don't like mint chocolate ice cream anymore, which, I wouldn't even believe" Soobin talked after greeting the male behind the counter who always served them, a boy probably around their age with blonde curls and a bright smile and attitude, perfectly fit for this shop.
Yeonjun laughed at Soobin's statement, nodding his head in response as they were looking over the multiple ice cream flavors, despite never trying a new one. "I wouldn't believe myself either" he replied, earning a heartful chuckle from the other as the blonde tall boy came to them, smiling sweetly at the sight of the couple, seeing them coming here all the time makes him feel happy as well, their relationship looked so pure and honest, like nothing in the world can break them apart. He hasn't asked them anymore what they'd like or anything, he was already scooping the flavors for both of them respectively and finally offered them the bowls with the scoops.
"Enjoy your ice cream! And date, lovebirds!" The male told them, he has started calling them like that after few times, and seeing how they never felt uncomfortable, rather Yeonjun was getting so shy hearing it all the time, hiding behind the taller's back, who would laugh at how shy and flustered his boyfriend could get, despite not being afraid to showcase their relationship through small public affectionate acts.
This would have been one of their regular dates, nothing more special, if not for Soobin preparing something for Yeonjun. Once they were seated and started eating slowly from the ice cream scoops and enjoying each bite, Yeonjun was always, but always looking at Soobin while the other did his small acts and hums while eating that the older couldn't get tired of watching, they were so endearing in his eyes. But just as he was more immersed in looking in Soobin's eyes, he would have almost missed the other placing a small box on the table between them, which caught his attention and looked in its direction, hinting at it with his eyes before Soobin talked.
"Open it, it's for you”.
He didn't know what to expect, but he did take the box and opened it, revealing two simple silver bands, two matching identical rings, and he could feel his heart starting to race, it was the first time Soobin was gifting him something, and now he realized the reason. His eyes were sparkling taking one of the rings between his fingers and looking more attentively at it, noticing a really fine detail over it, of course it would, Soobin was always paying attention to even the smallest details.
"It's a promise ring, and my long-time confession for you" Soobin started explaining, taking the ring from Yeonjun's fingers and holding Yeonjun's right hand gently after. "It is a promise ring for me to always be by your side, to keep these rings on our fingers until we're prepared to take the next step together, and it is my confession to you, how much I love you, Yeonjun, I have never met someone who can make me smile like you do, make my heart race just by doing the bare minimum, someone who cares so much about everything, such a pure soul you are, I want this ring to remind you all of these, just as meaningful it is for me, so I hope it will be for you" the black haired male continued and finished with the loveliest smile and look in his eyes, ones that are reserved only to Yeonjun only.
To all these words, Yeonjun couldn't not feel emotional, Soobin always knew how to touch his heart, always had the right words on him, and they were enough to have Yeonjun tear up, even more as Soobin slid it on his ring finger, perfectly fitting, and the more he looked at it, the more he felt so full, so loved, there was nothing he needed more, just Soobin.
He sniffed and took the other ring between his fingers and held Soobin's hand while he slowly slid the ring on the same finger like the other did.
"I can't believe how lucky I am to have you by my side, you're everything I need Soobin, nothing else and no one else will come between us, and I promise you I'll love you no matter what, there is nothing and there will be nothing to change that, not even the worst" Yeonjun spoke, his words full of love and honesty, compassion and trust.
They smiled to each other dearly, Soobin was touched by his words, especially as he wiped Yeonjun's tears that silently fell on his cheeks and returned in holding each other's hands gently, the silent but always present promise filling the air between them, while the rings shined under the sun's sparkling rays.
Yeonjun keeps fiddling with the ring as his mind takes him on the journey of revisiting the memory, not realizing he was zoning out this whole time, he hasn't taken it off and doesn't plan to do so for probably as long as he lives, and not only because of its significance, of the promise it holds, he might fall in love with someone else sooner or later, the right person, he promised to himself that he won't make a mistake in choosing who he will love again like he did with Soobin, sometimes he dreams of the day, sometimes he doesn't want to think about it, his mind is always in contradiction with itself and his feelings that meddle in, making it harder for him to decide what exactly he wants, yet one day he will find someone.
He has no idea for how long he has been like this until he feels a light tap on his arm, which finally gets him back on track and it was Beomgyu who did it, looking up at the slightly taller male, with an expression he can't read right now, or he doesn't try too much to do so.
"Are you really fine? You stared quite a lot at that sign" the shorter asked pointing at the ice cream shop name sign and finally Yeonjun just shook his head.
"I'm fine, yeah, let's get inside" he tried to brush it off and took the lead to enter, letting the two shorter behind him.
Beomgyu wasn't entirely convinced, Yeonjun seemed to zone out pretty much, does he have a lot on his mind, he doesn't look like someone who might be struggling, that or he hides it too well, but even if there is something he wants to help him, of course if he lets him, he doesn't want to push the limits or cross boundaries, it is not in his personality to make someone uncomfortable, it is in his personality though to help and express concern, which he does now, but towards Taehyun.
"Is he truly fine? He doesn't really look like" he asked and looked at the other who stood right next to him, watching as Yeonjun entered the shop, he truly appreciated Beomgyu's concern, he was pretty easily to notice Yeonjun had moments he simply would zone out thinking about something, yet Taehyun knows exactly what he's thinking about, he takes in every single action the older does and he noticed earlier how he was fiddling with his hands, more specifically the ring, and as much as he wants to help him, he has no idea what more to try, and he would feel bad towards him if he told Beomgyu about it.
Instead, he gathered his words and put it in the best way he could. "He's good, not all the time, but it's not my place to tell you, he should be the one telling you about it."
Beomgyu nodded to the words, not asking more, though it made him curious, he is a curious person after all, but he will pay more attention to Yeonjun, maybe he will realize some things on his own. He followed Taehyun after and he was instantly greeted by the bright colorful interior and how clean it looked, it really shows whoever owns this place cares of its appearance, he definitely knows from where he will get his ice cream now. Not to mention he kind of forgot of the other two as he saw the glass with the flavors and he wanted to just droll in front of it by how many there were and how great they looked. His eyes were probably sparkling right now as he thought hard what flavor to get, and it probably was visible to anyone, especially the sweet voice that has just spoke right now.
"I guess you are new here, right? Do you want me to recommend you something?" the boy behind the counter spoke and Beomgyu instantly looked up and was greeted by a tall adorable looking dark-haired male who had a really big smile on his face, he truly fit the place, he thought.
Beomgyu pushed his glasses, nodding eagerly, waiting to see what the boy will recommend him and looks at what he points down.
"The combination of Oreo and Strawberries never fails, want to try it?" he asked and he didn't need another second to see the boy getting excited about it, already prepared to pay for it, which made him chuckle as he put in a bowl one scoop of each and offered it to the boy who accepted it excitedly and thanked him for it.
Just now he remembered the other two who have been silently watching him this whole time, again, he couldn't really read Yeonjun's face, but he looked slightly less dense than before, that's a good sign, but Taehyun was truthfully smiling, thinking the other was adorable getting excited before he turned to the boy who was serving them.
"You already know our choices, Kai" he told him and Kai nodded seeing his friends, smiling more dearly towards Taehyun before he prepared their usual orders.
Kai was actually surprised when he saw Yeonjun entering the shop firstly, not that he wasn't close to him or haven't seen him often, well he kind of didn't, Taehyun is much closer to Yeonjun and spent the most time with him after the accident, he had only visited him few times when Taehyun insisted it would do him well to see another person he knows, but he was always feeling bad seeing the older, he has known him since he first got the job here and he was coming all the time with Soobin, he enjoyed watching the couple and how happy they were, how happy Yeonjun was, it is just heartbreaking to see how he hasn't smiled ever since, and how there is no one who can make him smile again.
Brushing off the thoughts he finally finished for the other two and gave them the bowls, with an extra scoop for Taehyun like he always does, and Beomgyu with his hawk eyes noticed the sweet glances between Kai and Taehyun, which made him have questions and of course the only person he could ask was Yeonjun who was already heading to a table with the bowl of mint chocolate ice cream and Beomgyu followed as the two stayed behind to talk.
"I don't know if I can ask this, but is there something between them two?" Beomgyu asked pointing at the two behind with his head.
Yeonjun looked up to see who he meant, though he had a hunch who before he looked down in his bowl, playing with the teaspoon as he just hummed. "Mmh, yeah, they are together, you noticed it that quickly?"
Beomgyu got more than excited hearing that, looking again at the two who were laughing about something, now that he looks better at them, they look really cute together. "I mean, it's kind of obvious when someone is in love, it's in their smile, you can't miss it" he answered taking few spoonsful of the ice cream.
Yeonjun thought over his words, it's the smile, of course it is, he remembers how much he was smiling because of Soobin, just the mere existence of the other would have him smile from one ear to another, love can change a person, but at the same time it can hurt you till the depth of your soul, getting you in a place so dark that it's hard to find the path to light again, or the person to guide you out, to rescue you.
"Have you ever been in love, Beomgyu?" Yeonjun's mind spoke without him realizing he just let those words out so casually as if it wasn't a quite personal question. He simply wanted to just bury himself in the ground, and he looks down embarrassed if he made the other uncomfortable with this question, yet it seems the other doesn't mind it.
"No, I've never found someone that would make me smile like that you know, that would make your heart flutter at the slightest actions, I'm still hoping, but you can call me a hopeless romantic for that" he answered though not in a gloomy way, quite contrary, he didn't feel bad or something, Yeonjun wishes he could be the same.
Taehyun joined them shortly after, half of ice cream already consumed as he smiled at both of them, he had no idea if they talked about something or just sat here in silence, yet right as he sat down, Beomgyu quickly took another spoonful and hit Taehyun playfully with his elbow in his arm.
"I can't believe you have a boyfriend, ah, I lost my chance to hit on you, everything is ruined because of that cute boy who sells ice cream" Beomgyu sulked and "whined" obviously jokingly, it was his way of showing how comfortable he already was with them, and how he likes joking.
Taehyun didn't expect these words from him, but it made him genuinely laugh, already loving the way Beomgyu acts and talk, it's been some time he met someone this lively like him.
"Shouldn't I be concerned that you are calling my boyfriend cute? Are you trying to steal him now?" Taehyun replied, still laughing.
Beomgyu only continued to sulk more. "Maybe I can make him like me more than he likes you, I have my own charms, don't try me" he warned him, in a slight serious tone, but of course Taehyun wasn't taking him seriously, as he should.
"You wouldn't dare though, I don't believe you'd straight away go and ask him out in front of everyone" he challenged him, and that was a bad decision because Beomgyu was raising a teasing eyebrow to him and a playful smile covered his face as he turned to look for Kai who was busy serving anyone else.
Yet Taehyun realized Beomgyu might actually be serious so he put a hand over his arm. "Okay, okay don't do it, or you'll get him really shy."
"Oh, so you admit I'd actually have chances, you are scared Taehyun, you're so scared I can steal your boyfriend if I want" his tone was rather melodically, all on purpose to tease the shorter and seeing how he was about to sulk as well, Beomgyu laughed and shook his head. "Don't worry, I wouldn't do that to anyone, especially to my friends" he assured him and continued again to eat the ice cream.
In the midst of their playful bickering, Yeonjun watched the whole scene and it was funny he won't lie, Beomgyu was truly a lively and playful person, he really knew how to make someone laugh or simply joke with them even if they have just met, maybe that's his personality, being this open and fun, full of energy. He didn't realize, but he started smiling at one point, containing a giggle that threatened to get out because it was truly funny. This was actually a big sign, a good start, not Taehyun, not even Kai and his puppy like personality could make him smile for the past year, yet Beomgyu managed to do that simply by being himself, it was like he was an attractor of smiles and laugher, he felt comfortable around him, like he hasn't done with anyone new, only one person managed to do that besides him, and that person no longer is by his side.
Beomgyu turned suddenly towards Yeonjun, well not so suddenly since he was sitting right in front of him and saw how he was smiling, this boy had such a pretty smile, he wonders why he doesn't show it so often, it's a pity since it makes him look so much younger and more lively, like a person of his age, like he forgets of his own problems, and he'd gladly act goofy and silly around if that puts a smile on his face, but how he suddenly focused on him, caught Yeonjun off guard again as he's getting flustered.
"See, even Yeonjun agrees I have chances with him, right Yeonjun?" he asked batting his eyelashes multiple times, making him look cuter than before and now both their attention was on him, and Yeonjun had no idea what to reply.
"Oh..me? I...I'm not sure...Kai really likes him" was all he could muster out of his mouth, yet he hoped they won't ask him anything else, he's already very flustered whenever Beomgyu focuses on him for some reason, yet not in a bad way, it was never in a bad way.
Beomgyu simply continued to eat his ice cream, much to Yeonjun's relief, deciding not to tease his new friends for now at least, and finish his ice cream that was truly delicious, he makes a mental note to visit this place more often, both to greet Taehyun's adorable boyfriend and get this delicious ice cream and try all the other flavors.
Soon after they finished their ice cream scoops, they left the shop and walked through the park that was right next to them, hopefully for Yeonjun he managed to not look as distressed as earlier, deciding to simply enjoy the green of the park, surprisingly there were more young adults around, probably fellow students who decided to enjoy this beautiful weather and have a walk, but of course the most excited about this walk was Beomgyu who smiled and had sparkles in his eyes as he was thrilled by anything that met his eyes, almost like a small kid who discovers the world for the first time.
The formation of three broke into two the moment the new boy saw a dog playing in grass and its ball reached his foot, as he threw it back it seems the dog wanted to play with Beomgyu and so the male didn't hesitate and ran in the green field playing with someone's dog, he was childish, but in a funny way, it fit him. Taehyun smiled more at Beomgyu's behavior and never-ending energy.
"He truly is one of a kind, I like him, what do you think?" he asked the taller, who was watching calmly, but contently the boy running with the dog and frequently petting it, almost not hearing Taehyun's question.
"Oh? Well, he's fun, I guess" he answered simply, yet Taehyun knew there was more to add, yet he still wanted to talk about something.
"You remembered earlier, didn't you? You know we could have chosen another place to come and not make you feel bad" Taehyun spoke carefully choosing his words and the way his voice comes out comfortingly, like it always is with him.
Yeonjun sighed knowing very well Taehyun wouldn't let him away with just it. "No, I'm fine, yes I remembered, but I can't help it, I can't forget my memories with him" he sounded almost hopeless, but Taehyun was there to reassure him all the time, as he rested an arm over Yeonjun's shoulder.
"No one said you should forget, I know it's still difficult for you, but think about it, wouldn't you still have made friends even if he was still here with you? Plus, Beomgyu is not like others, I have a good feeling about him, he's fun and nice, he seems to be comfortable around anyone, which is a good thing, I mean look even dogs like him" he finished off pointing at the boy and the dog, and as much as it was, Yeonjun knew Taehyun was right with it, and he should take his advice, maybe he can get along with Beomgyu.
"I guess I can try, but do you think he's fine with me being like this, not so talkative meanwhile he's very talkative and full of energy?" Yeonjun expressed his concern about it to which Taehyun nodded.
"I mean, come on, Yeonjun, he showed interest in you since the beginning, he even told you he's not going to force you to talk unless you want, so give him a chance like you gave Kai."
Yeonjun couldn't argue with him, especially not with a subject like this, he remembers though how it took him some time to truly befriend Kai, and that happened mostly after Taehyun revealed they started dating, so there were moments they were all four and naturally became close, still Yeonjun was the least close to him, but Kai is a sweetheart and didn't mind it, Yeonjun wasn't ignoring him after all, he gave him time for everything. In this kind of moments the oldest feels grateful to have friends like them two who understood him every time, and Taehyun who was a constant moral support to him in the hardest times.
Shortly after their talk, Beomgyu appeared next to them, hair a bit messy yet still with his big smile, while he was catching his breath. "That dog really has a lot of energy and fast attachment, it barely let me go" he laughed while looking at the two males, not sure what they talked about, not he wanted to ask and be a busy body, so he just brushed a hand through his hair, looking around the park.
"Do you guys have to go somewhere else, or did I steal your time you might have had to do something else?" Beomgyu asked with probably the most innocent face that he could make, obviously not wanting to be a burden to the two boys he had just befriended.
Yeonjun thought in that moment that Beomgyu couldn't get even more innocent looking than he already was, plus hi worry about their time was cute, Taehyun was right, he isn't like others.
"Oh, don't worry, Beomgyu, you didn't, we didn't have anything planned for after classes anyways. You said you missed the bus today, does that mean you got an apartment here?" Taehyun asked curiously, since if the other was staying on campus in dormitories, then he wouldn't have needed to take the bus in first place.
Beomgyu nodded. "Yeah, my parents found me a nice studio I pay rent for, it's not that big, but I don't need much space after all I live alone, but now you guys brought me here and to be honest I didn't pay much attention on our way, so I don't know how to get back to my apartment?" he said slightly embarrassed as he scratched his nape, he might have sounded stupid saying this, but he was always bad with directions and can easily get lost, since he didn't get to visit much of the town either, even the bus he had to use an app to tell him what bus to take and it was worse after he lost it and had to run while looking over his phone constantly to not take a bad turn.
Both Yeonjun and Taehyun found themselves giggling at Beomgyu's statement, not because they wanted to laugh of him, but the whole situation was funny but understandable. "Well, you have your address on your phone, right? Just show it to us and we can walk you there" Taehyun spoke gently and Beomgyu felt relieved they were there for him.
"Thank you so much, guys, I might have made it on my own, probably at night" he chuckled before getting his phone out and hopefully he saved his address on the map app and showed it to Taehyun who gasped softly, which confused Beomgyu for a second, and he was about to ask if there was something wrong before Taehyun spoke.
"Yeonjun lives in the same building as you" and to that even Yeonjun turned to him, looking over his phone to see that it was the exact same address as his own.
Now it was Beomgyu's turn to gasp excitedly. "Really? That's so cool, that means we can go to university together!" he exclaimed with a wide grin.
Yeonjun smiled back to him as he faced Beomgyu, he had to be more enthusiastic, not that he thought it was a bad thing, it was a surprise mostly, since what were the odds for it?
"Sure, we can, and you won't miss the bus either" Yeonjun finally spoke again and he could swear he saw sparkles in Beomgyu's eyes as he jumped a bit on spot, before he clapped a few times.
"Finally, I'm so excited to have someone to go to classes with, it's more fun than to just walk alone, right?"
Yeonjun had no idea whether the question was addressed to him or not, but since he was the last one he talked to and well it's them two living in the same building, he felt he should continue talking.
"You didn't have classmates living in the same neighborhood as you?" he asked rather curiously only to see Beomgyu shaking his head.
"Not that was the issue, more like, they didn't want to walk with me? I only had few friends who remained there while I decided to dream big and move here, and they were in the other class than me and lived in the other part of the town, and well my classmates considered me the nerdy quiet boy, so if I tried to interact with them, they'd turn their heads from me, which sounds a bit sad, but I assure you I'm fine, after all we know how high school students are" the boy explained, not shy or embarrassed to say this story to them, as he pushed his glasses on top of his nose and continued to follow the two who were heading back to his place, and Yeonjun's too.
Yeonjun can't help but feel sympathy for the boy, with such innocent features, and yet bubbly and energetic personality, it's hard to believe others didn't want to talk with him, because he didn't even hesitate to talk to them and wasn't shy at all, or maybe he changed in the meantime, Yeonjun can say the same about himself after all, one event was enough to change him entirely.
"Well now you don't have to worry about it, you have us now" Taehyun came in between them, patting their backs, and Beomgyu doesn't have to lie to say he didn't feel happy about this, he hadn't expected to find friends so easily and genuine friends, Taehyun who was very open to him and accepted him right away and jumped in conversation with him, and even Yeonjun who he didn’t know much about, but he supposes this is his way of being, he opens up hardly, even Taehyun said there is a reason for him being like this, yet he won't push him, he's happy to have them two around.
Jumping from a conversation to another, mainly Beomgyu retelling how his life was in Daegu and how for now he can't pick if he likes it better there or here, but later he will make an opinion, the three boys finally reached Yeonjun's and Beomgyu's apartments' building. Taehyun sadly was the one who lived a bit further away, and he is still the one to pick Yeonjun to go anywhere. They all stopped in front of the entrance, bidding goodbyes and waving at Taehyun who left the two alone to go to their respective apartments. As they entered and started waking up the stairs, Beomgyu was first to ask.
"Weird how I haven't seen you around since I've been staying here for the past weeks, or when I left in the morning, or that might have been because I left on a hurry to catch the bus, on what floor do you live?"
Yeonjun thought it wasn't really weird since he hardly went out in first place and secondly, they might have passed by each other but paid no interest to each other, which seems the most reasonable. "I live on the third floor, what about you?" he asked not getting into details of the first part of Beomgyu's words and the other groaned.
"Lucky, I have to climb one more floor, you know how tiring is to bring your luggage and objects up to the last floor? I threw myself on the bed after I brought everything in and didn’t get up for hours, my legs and back were killing me" he complained, but the truth is Yeonjun knows since he lives at third floor, he has to walk more than 90% as much as Beomgyu does.
They reached the third floor and Yeonjun was heading to his apartment, Beomgyu absent mindly following him until he realized they were in front of his apartment.
"Here is my apartment, and I guess if you need anything you can call me or something" Yeonjun didn't want to sound so awkwardly, yet clearly, he failed.
The shorter blinked comprehending his words before he cleared his throat looking around. "Oh yeah, sure, I'll just knock if I need something, so...tomorrow is okay to meet downstairs?" he asked and Yeonjun nodded, agreeing with everything.
"I'll get going, take care!" he greeted the shorter who waved at him and smiled before walking back towards the stairs and upstairs to his own apartment, just watching him walking like that he looked rather even shorter and cute, it put a smile on Yeonjun's face, Beomgyu might as well be a happy virus, he could make anyone smile by doing nothing special, might as well be his trait, Yeonjun thinks, one that he deeply missed.