Archive of Our Own ^beta

~

“Chan! Chan? Channie?” Felix shouted as he looked around Chan’s apartment after letting himself in when he didn’t answer the door. Felix finally found him in his make-shift home office. Unsurprisingly, Chan had his headphones on which explains why he wasn’t hearing Felix. Felix grabbed the chair that is always nearby dragged it closer so he could sit with Chan. That movement finally caught Chan’s attention.

“Oh, Felix, What’s up?” Chan asked, taking off his headphones and setting them on his desk.

“You know when you wear your headphones you don’t notice when someone knocks on your door. It’s a good thing you gave me a key.”

“Sorry. The sound is better that way. Anyways, what brought you over?”

“Planning. I have ideas for our vacation. Now don’t worry, with all of this we are going to have lots of alone time too. But this is the best opportunity we will have to help them. And I’m sure since Minho and Changbin are your best friends, you will have no problem helping with this. Now, I have already studied some of the things to do there and mom also already has a list of what she would prefer we do as a family, so that’s already factored in. Of course, nothing is quite set in stone yet, but it’s a good starting point and I figured maybe you would have some other ideas. Though obviously I still want us to do some stuff as a group too, so we have to decide when we should stay as a group and when we need to get them alone,” Felix went off, full on rambling, sorting through the papers Chan only just noticed Felix had with him. Unfortunately for Chan, he had no idea what Felix was going on about.
“Felix. Lix. Baby,” Chan called out, trying to interrupt Felix. “I need you to go back like four steps in your thought process,” he said once he had Felix’s attention.

“Back four steps? Why?” Felix was quite confused at the request and Chan had to stop himself from laughing at Felix’s expression.

“Because as much as I would love to help you, I have no idea what you are talking about. What vacation are we going on? And what are we doing with Minho and Changbin?”

“My family’s vacation? We can bring someone along so of course you’re my plus one and Changbin will be Minho’s. I texted you about it. Didn’t I?” Chan gently shook his head and reached behind to grab his phone off the desk.

“I have had my phone right here the whole time. The last you texted was this morning.” Felix went wide eyed and checked his own phone to see a half written unsent text.

“Oops. I really thought I sent that. I must have gotten distracted trying to look up stuff for my plan.”

“It’s fine. So, when is this vacation?”

“About three weeks or so. Parents are waiting for Minho and I to confirm you and Changbin. But mom already has a rough outline drawn up. I can ask her to send it to you.”

“Yes please. If it’s three weeks out, I should be all good to go.” Felix cheered. “So now what is this plan and what do Minho and Changbin have to do with it?”

“We need to get them together,” Felix stated seriously. Chan’s not sure what he was expecting, but it certainly was not that.

“Get them together?” Chan choked out.

“Yeah.”

“Why?”

“Chan, please tell me you aren’t that oblivious.”

“I’m not oblivious. But are you sure they even like each like that? We’ve been best friends for so many years and I haven’t gotten that impression from them.” Felix sighs.

“You are that oblivious. I should know this. You didn’t notice my crush on you for so long.”

“I think that is different,” Chan tried to argue.

“It’s really not. But anyways. Yes, I am certain about this. Minho is my brother, and we are as close as we can possibly be. He tells me things that he doesn’t even tell you and these things are more obvious to me to call him out on. So, I absolutely know that Minho has been crushing on Changbin for quite some time now.”

“And Changbin? What do you know about him?”

“Changbin straight up told me. Well actually not quite. He tried not telling me, but I guessed it and he confirmed.”

“When was that?”

“Like two years ago now. You remember back when I was crushing on Changbin too?”

“You had a crush on Changbin?” Chan was shocked to say the least.

“Yes. I told you this before. I was crushing on both of you back then, but I focused on Changbin because you were Minho’s oldest friend and thus also like a big brother and since we were both originally from Australia, I took all that to doubt my crush on you was what it actually was and focused my attention on Changbin. So, of course I said something to him and that when he said he had feelings for someone else. It immediately clicked with me that it was Minho, so I asked him, and he said yes. And honestly, part of me was relieved when he said that. Like I didn’t feel hurt at all, and it was like my crush disappeared in a second and I realized I had my feelings for you two reversed. He was the one who was like a big brother, and I’ve been hoping ever since that he and Minho get together.”

“Were you crushing on Changbin while you knew Minho liked him too?”

“Oh hell no. I found out about Minho liking him like a year later. And now I have suffered for a year watching them dance around each other even though they both have feelings. And this is exactly why we have to help them.”

“Okay, if you are that sure, we can help push them together. But we have to let them do it themselves, we will just give them the chance and setting.”

“Yes, exactly. We’re on the same page. So, here are my notes of the best places to get them feeling like it’s a date.” Felix put his papers down on the desk and started going through all the ideas, locations, and events he had already researched.

~

“Wow, we’re right on the beach,” Changbin shouted as soon as they got to the house Minho and Felix’s family rented for the trip. “I want to go right now.”

“Me too. Let’s decide our rooms and then go,” Felix suggested, rushing up the stairs to find the bedrooms. “Chan! Let’s take this one.” Felix had poked his head back out to the hallway as the other three followed at a much slower pace.

“Who said you get first pick? We haven’t even looked at the options,” Minho said, staring Felix down.

“Because you always let me take my pick. And you are slow.”

“I think you’re getting a little ahead of yourself.” Minho gently pushed himself past Felix to look at his room. He poked around, casually nodding as he went, checking out the whole room. When he was done, he headed over to the next room, doing the same. Chan and Changbin following along. There wasn’t much difference between the rooms beyond the color schemes. “Alright, alright. You may have that room. Changbin and I can share the other one.”

“See, I told you I get what I want.” Felix stuck out his tongue and quickly dragged Chan into the room with him before Minho decided to retaliate.

Minho couldn’t help but smile at Felix’s childishness and headed back to the room with Changbin who was already unpacking both of their things. Minho let Changbin do what he wanted and just face planted onto the bed instead.

“Are you going down to the beach with us?” Minho groaned for his initial response, but Changbin poked him until he got a real answer.

“Nap.”

“If you’re going to nap, as least change and freshen up from the trip. You’ll feel better that way.”

“No, I am now part of the bed.” Minho could hear Changbin sigh and continue rustling through their luggage. Minho assumed Changbin was just hunting for his swimsuit and all that until Changbin threw clothes at him instead.

“Go change,” Changbin ordered.

Minho felt around behind him for the clothes and propped himself up just enough to see what Changbin threw at him. It was just a simple t-shirt and shorts, but the ones Minho tended to lounge around at home in. Knowing Changbin was obviously not going to let it be, Minho finally found the motivation to move and headed out to the bathroom across the hall.

When Minho returned, Changbin had sorted out most of their clothes into the dresser and closet in the room. He was busy hanging up their dressier clothes and Minho could see he had laid out his swim stuff on the bed for when he finished.

“I put all your stuff on the left side and mine on the right.”

“Like you don’t sometimes steal my shirts anyways,” Minho teased.

“I only borrow when I stay the night at yours. And I’m very good at returning them.”

“I suppose that’s true,” Minho said. “I thought you were rushing down to the beach with the other two.”

“I will. But I’ll be too tired to do this later, so I wanted to take care of it first. Are you sure you don’t want to join us?”

“Yeah. If you all are still out there after my nap, I’ll at least come down to the beach.”

“Sounds like a plan. Don’t sleep so long that you won’t sleep tonight.”

“I won’t. Take the sunscreen with you too, Felix always forgets to reapply,” Minho reminded as Changbin picked up everything he wanted to take down with him. Changbin held up the sunscreen to show he was taking it with him before he left.

Minho’s nap was a good couple of hours, and when he awoke there was no sign of Changbin having come back up to their room. Thankfully their rooms looked out to the beach and with a simple look he could see some figures out in the water directly in line with the house. Not wanting to dirty his lounging clothes, he changed into something more suitable for the beach and headed out to find the others.

When Minho got down there, he found someone had grabbed the beach blankets and made a nice set up, perfect for just lounging. And that’s what he decided to do. He dug out the sunscreen Changbin brought down and settled in with his book as he kept an eye on the other three playing in the water. He was sure they would notice him before too long and wasn’t worried about announcing his presence. But until then, he was quite happy to just watch them, especially as Felix always made it his mission to try and dunk the other two even though they had the physical advantage over him.

Changbin was unsurprisingly the first to notice him and head out of the water. Felix and Chan would be happy enough to spend all day in the water, where Changbin was more willing to balance his time in and out. Minho tossed him his towel once he was in range.

“Have a good nap?” Changbin asked.

“Yeah. I really needed it. How’s the water?”

“Perfect. If you don’t count slightly third wheeling those two.”

“That’s a you problem, I’m never the third wheel.”

“That’s because you could all equally third wheel each other. Frankly you all sometimes make me wonder where I fit in.”

“You fit in where you always have. You’re our best friend and sometimes a better older brother to Felix. Also, Felix complains about being a third wheel when Chan’s too busy to hang with us.”

“Oh well if Felix feels like our third wheel, then I suppose that makes me feel better,” Changbin said laughing a little. “So, did your parents say what the dinner plan tonight is?”

“Well, if they went shopping then maybe we’re grilling tonight. If not, then we’re probably going to order something.”

“We should investigate.”

“You have to get those two then.” Changbin groaned but rushed back to the water’s edge to shout at Chan and Felix to come out.

“Minho, you should’ve come in with us,” Felix said as soon as they got back to the blankets and Minho.

“Maybe later. We have enough days here. You all need to clean up before dinner though.” Felix complained but started helping the others pick everything up and take it back to the house.

Dinner was a simple case of ordering food in and the whole family agreed on a movie to watch for the evening. They had plans starting early the next day, so shockingly Minho wasn’t the only one headed to bed early for once.

Every time Minho and Changbin share a bed, Minho wakes up to find himself cuddling Changbin. As far as Minho is aware, Changbin doesn’t know about it. He knows they are both comfortable with it when they are awake, but he’s not sure how Changbin would take it knowing it happens while they sleep. So, he’s never mentioned it. Instead, he gently removes himself, so he doesn’t disturb Changbin and gets ready while he sleeps. It’s only afterwards that Minho wakes him up and then heads to the other room to wake up Chan and Felix.

Their first full day is spent sightseeing and taking a tour of the city. Hours of walking around the city completely drained all of them by the time their parents called for a break. They had made it to the city’s large shopping mall which was near where they had dinner reservations. Since they had some time to spare, their parents gave them time to wander around as they pleased.

The boys all took off together to start of course. They hit a couple different shops before Minho and Changbin found themselves alone. Felix had been the one to drag them into the store claiming he wanted to look for a new video game but when Minho and Changbin were busy glancing at a different section, Felix and Chan had disappeared.

“So, what do you think those two are up to?” Changbin asked him.

“Instinct says no good and that we will find out eventually.”

“I mean, Chan’s responsible at least. Most of the time.”

“Yes, but if Felix has an idea,” Minho trailed off just sharing a look with Changbin causing him to groan.

“Alright, we need to start putting our plan in action,” Felix announced once he dragged Chan to a more secluded part of the mall.

“We don’t even have much of a plan yet. Most of what we planned is for the trip to the park and the festival. Neither of those are until next week. They are sharing a room so we could just hope the constant alone time will force something to happen.”

“But just getting them alone isn’t going to do anything. They’re alone together enough and nothing has happened. We need to set the mood.”

“Outside of today and a couple other days set aside for museums, we don’t exactly have a schedule to know what they are going to do. It’s hard to make plans for their free time that will set the mood,” Chan reasoned.

“So, we need to make those plans.” Felix started. “Minho would much rather stick around the house or do something chill and Changbin is open to most things. We could find a good café and convince Changbin he needs to take Minho there. Or set them up on a picnic with a good view. Or give them an evening with the house to themselves. Though that might not mean much either. Either way, we need to get them alone when it won’t feel like their usual time together.”

“Why can’t you just talk to both of them about their feelings and try to convince one of them to ask the other out? Wouldn’t that be simpler?” Felix took a deep breath and sighed.

“Chan, you have known Minho longer than I have and Changbin for a similar amount. We both know how hard that route would be. Minho? Talk about his feelings? It doesn’t happen unless you corner him and give him no other choice. And Changbin is much better at listening to other people’s problems and feelings than he is at expressing his own.”

“Okay, but that’s what I mean too. Just getting them in situations where the mood is right isn’t going to guarantee they act upon the mood. They both could just very easily ignore it. But if we talk to them and put the idea in their head and then follow it up with getting them in the right setting, that might make it harder for them to ignore it. Like talking to them will only do so much, and setting the mood might only do so much, but if you combine them, we increase our chances of something happening,” Chan explained. Felix pondered on the thought for a moment.

“Fine. But you get to talk to Minho.”

“What? But he’s your brother. Why do I have to talk to him? He doesn’t even know I know about his crush. Do you want him to be mad at you or telling me?”

“Changbin doesn’t know you know either. But Minho is also your oldest friend and you’re just as good at getting him to talk as I am. Besides, you don’t have to tell him I told you. You could just say you figured it out on your own. Or just make him tell you. Either way, he won’t be mad at me. He loves me too much to get mad at me.” Chan gave him a skeptical look. “Okay, okay. He can get mad at me. But! He never stays mad at me. And if it means that he finally has Changbin as his boyfriend, I’m sure he will be very quick with the forgiveness.”

“You know I suck at lying and he can read me like an open book. There is no way he isn’t finding out you told me. So, this is your warning to expect him to call you out.”

“That’s fine. If he does that, then either he could accidentally confess in the process, or he just gets the talk twice after you’ve worn him down with the first attempt. Win-win.”

“I feel like this is a loss for me.”

“Oh, don’t be like that. You’re the only one Minho doesn’t actually threaten.” Chan raised an eyebrow. “You’ll be fine. Like you said, he’ll find out it’s my fault anyways,” Felix reassured Chan. “Besides, in the end, all we want is for them to be happy and no longer dancing around each other, right?”

“Yeah. I know. If it makes them happy, then I’m all for it. Doesn’t mean I’m not dreading having to force Minho to talk about it.”

~

Chan and Felix took a couple days to just enjoy the vacation before they put their plan in motion. They both agreed that the first thing they should do would be to talk to them and were waiting for the perfect opportunity to catch them apart and when they didn’t already have plans.

The best chance came on the evening of their fourth night. Their parents had left them alone for the evening and they had agreed on watching a movie. Felix had volunteered to help Changbin get snacks and the living room ready. Minho had been relaxing up in his room and had mentioned for them to just fetch him when they were ready. Chan took the hint from Felix telling him to go get Minho, knowing it was time for the chat.

“Hey Changbin,” Felix started. Changbin just hummed an acknowledgement. “Do you still have feelings for my brother?” Changbin choked on thin air and almost dropped the bowl of chips he was carrying.

“Why?” He managed to ask after a moment of coughing. Felix shrugged.

“Just curious. We haven’t talked about it in some time, so I wasn’t sure if anything changed for you.”

“Ah, no, nothing has changed. I still really like him. Please don’t tell him though.”

“I won’t. But why haven’t you said anything to him yet?”

“Tell Minho I like him? How? The last thing I want to do is let my feelings get in between our friendship. I know Minho isn’t very forthcoming with his feelings, but I know he only sees me as a friend, and I would rather have that than make it awkward between us when he rejects me.”

“How do you know that? What if he likes you back and is struggling to speak up?” Felix asked.

“Come on, we both know him. He treats me the exact same way he treats Chan, but Chan is better at getting him to open up than I am. There is nothing to say he likes me back.”

“But if he is trying to hide that he likes you, why would he not make sure to treat you and Chan the same. I think you are giving both of you too little credit. You should try it. We’re out here on vacation, beautiful locations all around that can easily become romantic. It would be the perfect time to say something, even just test the waters.”

“Felix,” Changbin sighed.

“Please Bin. I know you like him so much and I have a good feeling about it. Just think about it please. I want both of you happy and I know you can make each other happy even more so than you do now,” Felix pleaded with the biggest, saddest, most puppy dog eyes Changbin had seen.

“Felix, just drop it for now, okay. They’ll be coming down at any moment.” Changbin walked away with his hands full of snacks and missed Felix’s sly smile behind him.

Chan was having a much harder time approaching the topic than Felix was. He had let himself into Minho and Changbin’s room with a light knock and stopped Minho when he moved to get up.

“Hey, sorry, I just wanted to talk about something real quick. Felix and Changbin are setting up, so we have a little time.” Minho just raised his eyebrow. “I know we haven’t really discussed it before, but like I kind of feel like sometimes Felix and I make you seem like a third wheel. So, I wanted to know if you had your eyes on someone at all.”

“Why?”

“Just that we’ve never discussed relationships beyond mine and Felix’s.”

“Because I haven’t bothered. What are you really getting at? This is odd, even for you.” Chan gulped as Minho stared him down.

“Well, it’s just that we’re at a fairly popular romantic getaway place and I wondered if you ever thought of someone specific you might’ve wanted to bring along in the future for that reason. Or even take advantage while we’re here.”

“What is that supposed to mean? Will you just say what you actually want?” Minho was obviously done with Chan’s stammering and beating around the bush.

“Changbin. Do you have feelings for Changbin?”

“And why would you think that?”

“I don’t know. I just have the feeling that you maybe you’re a little closer to him than you maybe show. You’re certainly a little more willing to be physical with him than you are with me.”

“You? Have a feeling about someone’s relationship? You couldn’t even notice Felix crushing on you for the longest time.”

“That’s different,” Chan argued

“Oh yeah? What about his friends, Hyunjin and Seungmin? You not only didn’t realize they were very obviously already dating, you argued with us when we mentioned it.”

“That’s not fair either, they are just as cuddly with Felix as they are with each other, how was I supposed to know?”

“We literally walked in to them throwing themselves in opposite directions on the couch because they were embarrassed to be caught making out.”

“Wait? That’s what they were doing?” Minho sighed.

“Well, obviously Felix told you. Why?”

“Felix didn’t tell me.”

“He’s the only one who knew,” Minho countered. “So, either tell me why or I’ll go get Felix myself and force it out of him.”

“He didn’t, I swear.”

“Last chance Chan.” Minho crossed his arms and stared Chan down waiting for him to speak. When he didn’t Minho sighed, got up and headed for the door. “Fine. FELIX!” Minho shouted with enough force and annoyance that everyone in the house knew he was in trouble.

“Wait, Minho, don’t.” Chan followed Minho and grabbed him and stopped him from going down.

“What? I didn’t do anything!” Felix had shouted back up to them. “Are you two coming down for the movie or not?”

“Give us a moment,” Chan replied doing his best to ignore Minho’s glare. “Fine. Felix told me. Because he knows you like him, he wants to help you two get together and decided that while we are on vacation would be the best chance. He figured I would do a better job of talking you into it. Or at least thinking about doing it.”

“And has he bothered to take into account what Changbin wants?”

“He seemed confident about it. And wanted us to offer our help at maybe giving you two the space you need to have that conversation.”

“Don’t bother. If you two want to go off on your own romantic excursions, fine, but don’t do it to try and force Changbin and I together.”

“He just wants you happy Minho.”

“I know, but he doesn’t need to interfere with my love life for that. I’m happy as it is,” Minho said with finality and broke himself out of Chan’s grasped to head downstairs.

When they got down to the living room, neither missed the glare Minho sent Felix’s way. Felix looked everywhere but at Minho, trying his best to look innocent. Minho took the seat next to Changbin, ignoring the worried look he was getting. When Chan had joined them a moment after, Felix went ahead and started the movie.

“Everything okay?” Changbin whispered after a while to Minho, noticing he was still tense.

“It’s fine.” Changbin could tell Minho didn’t want to talk and instead just passed him his favorite snack from the bunch and hoped he would calm down on his own.

After the movie, Minho headed straight back to his room. Changbin was still worried as he remained annoyed the whole time. Changbin usually wasn’t one to head to bed early, but he couldn’t just stay put without at least trying to talk to Minho. So, after only about another forty minutes, Changbin quietly excused himself and readied himself for bed.

Minho was lying in bed, mindless scrolling on his phone when Changbin entered. Changbin crawled in bed next to him silently and laid there, just staring at Minho for a while.

“Did you and Chan get into a fight?” Changbin whispered. He didn’t want to overstep, but he also didn’t want to leave Minho to stew in anger alone. When Minho finally sighed and set his phone down, he knew he was going to talk. At least a little.

“Sort of. But apparently Felix put him up to it.”

“What was it about? You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.”

“Just Felix found out something I didn’t want anyone to know and now he’s gone behind my back and told Chan and used Chan to confront me about it.”

“Is it so bad that he knows?”

“Debatable.”

“I’m sure neither of them did it with bad intentions but I can’t blame you for being mad at them either.”

“You’re not going to ask what it is?” Minho asked, turning to face Changbin.

“I’ll admit I’m curious, but it’s not like you singled me out as who you’re not telling. And I’m not going to push you into telling me anything just to satisfy my own curiosity. You can keep your secret until you want to tell me yourself. And don’t worry, I won’t go asking Felix or Chan either, I promise. I will help you get back at them if you want though.”

“Thank you, Binnie.”

Changbin could see Minho relax slightly and eventually drift off to sleep. Changbin couldn’t help but watch him sleep for a while until he decided to play on his phone instead, not quite ready to sleep yet. At some point, he felt Minho shift closer and curl up against him. He was glad it was the middle of the night and Minho was fast asleep and thus couldn’t notice his face heating up at the contact. He felt a little bad for taking advantage of Minho’s cuddly state, but he couldn’t help but lean back into the contact and let himself fall asleep in Minho’s embrace.

Neither conversation went as well as Chan and Felix would have hoped. Felix felt more confident with his conversation with Changbin than how it went with Minho, but at least they have planted the idea now. Unfortunately, they do have to be careful about what they do now since they will both be suspicious of them. Minho being mad at the two of them, however, worked slightly in their favor.

Minho didn’t actively avoid Chan and Felix, nor was he actively rude. He still made sure to look after Felix and check in with Chan, but the interactions were brief. Instead, he leaned further into his time with Changbin, seemingly not caring about his conversation with Chan. But regardless of that, he was quite obviously annoyed at them still.

Felix almost wondered if he needed to take a moment and do more to apologize to Minho before he continued with his plan. He had apologized the next day when they had a moment alone and further confirmed what Chan had told Minho. Minho just threatened him to not do it again and cut the conversation there.

Thankfully, to help Chan and Felix lay low on their plan, they still had some full day plans with the parents over the next couple of days, so there wasn’t much time they were off on their own. And a lot of their spare time was spent down at the beach. They were successful at getting Minho in a few times, especially once they got some floats and he could just lounge on the water. There was an incident one day where a wave knocked him off his float but luckily Changbin was right there to catch him.

~

Moving into their second and final week of vacation, Chan and Felix decided it was time to carefully get back to their plan.

“Hey Bin?” Felix called out when he came down the stairs. He knew Changbin had last been watching something in the living room.

“What’s up?” Changbin asked, pausing his show.

“So, Chan and I were in town this morning and we ran into this adorable café. And I know Minho would love it. But of course, he’s still not entirely happy with me so I don’t think he would want to go with me right now.”

“Okay, and what is my part in this?”

“Well, you should go with him. He stayed inside all day yesterday, so it would be good for him to get out and we otherwise just kind of plan on being at the beach for the rest of the day. I just figured since you’re the one he’s not mad at, he would accept your company the most. It’s just a suggestion, I know sitting in cafés isn’t really your style. But look how cute it is. It’s all cat themed,” Felix explained and then proceeded to pull out his phone and show Changbin all the pictures he took earlier with Chan.

“Alright, send me the info about it and I’ll at least see if Minho wants to go and if he wants me to tag along.”

“Awe don’t let him go alone. That’s no fun.”

“Felix,” Changbin started with a sigh. “He goes by himself to cafés all the time. If he doesn’t want my company, I’m not going to force it on him.”

“But that’s at home. Mom said they would prefer if none of us went off alone and to at least stick in pairs.”

“Key word there being prefer. I’m sure they won’t mind if Minho drives into the city by himself for a couple hours. He’s better with directions than either of us and he’s had a few days to get the lay of the city. He would be perfectly fine.”

“Well, if he does go alone and our parents get mad, I’m blaming you.” Felix huffed and left Changbin.

Changbin had finished the next episode of his show while he waited for Felix to text him all the information. At that point, it was still early in the afternoon but as Changbin hadn’t taken a lunch break yet, it was the perfect time to go to a café if Minho wanted to.

Minho had spent most of the day sitting out on the balcony from their room. He had gone out on a morning jog before Changbin even woke up as he does most mornings. But when he got back, he made breakfast and then set himself outside with his book and Changbin hasn’t seen him since. So, that was exactly where Changbin found him. Instead of interrupting Minho, Changbin chose to sit down in the remaining chair and wait for Minho to say something first. He didn’t want to risk interrupting him if he was in an important part of the book.

“What’s up? Are you waiting for me to make lunch?” Minho teased when he set his book down.

“No. Felix gave me a different suggestion.”

“Oh, did he now?”

“Well actually it was for you. Or maybe both of us. He and Chan went to a café for breakfast this morning and Felix showed it to me to suggest to you.”

“Why?”

“According to him, I’m the only one you’re not mad at.” Minho thought about it for a moment before agreeing.

“So what? Did you promise Felix, you would take me to it?”

“No. I said I would show it to you for him. If you want to go, that’s up to you. And if you want me to go with you, that is also up to you. If you want to check it out on your own, I’m cool with that and will make my own lunch.” Minho raised an eyebrow at the last comment. “Okay fine, I will either see what there is to just heat up, order food, or beg Chan. But I am learning. I’m just not going to try here though. Your parents rented this place, there is no way I’m putting that at risk. My own place is fine though.”

“Yes, yes I know you are,” Minho said with a light laugh.

“It’s one of the reasons I like watching you. I’m taking tips and ideas. You cook everything just the way I like it, so if I copy how you do it, then it comes out better.”

“You could just ask for my help.”

“No. I’m learning on my own and my goal is that one day I am going to cook something you want just for you from scratch all by myself. Or at least as much from scratch as is reasonable,” Changbin said, very determined.

“For me? Why?”

“Well, a couple reasons really. First, it’s like a milestone for me really. Being able to do that for you means that I’m competent enough at it. Like I’m not going to be as good you, but at that point, I’m at least good enough and you’ll know you don’t have to worry about me.”

“I don’t worry about you that much. But what’s the second reason.”

“Like a payback, I guess. You’ve cooked for me so much, I feel like I need to do it for you at least once. I know you don’t mind cooking for me and caring for me and the rest of us is just your thing, but like I feel I should return the favor, even just once.”

“I will never ask any of you to do anything for me in return for the things I do of my own desire. But if that is what you want to do, then I will look forward to that day,” Minho said very earnestly. “Now about that café you came here about.”

“Oh right, here. This is what Felix sent me.” Changbin held out his phone with all the details on it for Minho. Minho mulled over the pictures and the website for a minute.

“Alright, let’s go,” Minho announced standing up quickly and passing the phone back to Changbin and heading inside all before Changbin registered it.

“Oh, hey, wait for me,” Changbin said once his brain caught up. It was only a few minutes later that they informed Chan and Felix that they were taking the other car and headed into the city for a while, their parents having already taken the first car for the day.

Finding the café was quite easy even with it being on a back street and them needing to park a few blocks away. The stroll was nice anyways. And thankfully, they went at the perfect time that it wasn’t overly busy, just a small handful of other customers floating about. Changbin and Minho were able to order quickly and find a nice spot to eat.

Changbin knew just relaxing at cafés like this was one of Minho’s favorite things to do. There was one near the university that he spent most of his longer breaks at. Either he would take his work with him and do homework and class projects, Changbin knew of at least two essays almost entirely written in that café. Or he would take a book and sit there reading for a couple hours. Today, Minho didn’t bring anything to do, and he voiced that concern.

“Why would I have?” Minho questioned in return.

“I just know it’s what you usually do.”

“Yeah, when I go alone. But I have you with me. Unless you’re trying to say you don’t want to talk to me.”

“I’d never say that,” Changbin announced scandalized and a little too loudly that Minho had to shush him. Thankfully, none of the other customers seemed to pay them any mind.

“I know you wouldn’t actually. But you seem to think the only reason I come to a café is to work or read.”

“But you do it so often.”

“Yeah, cause it’s not yours or Chan’s thing. I come for the atmosphere. It’s very laid back and calming in a good café. There are plenty of ways to enjoy that atmosphere and when I’m alone obviously work, or a book are my best options. But good company and conversation will always be better than that.” Changbin had to hide how flushed his face was become with the way Minho stared at him. “Unless of course, you had brought something to do with you under the assumption that I would have as well. I’m sure I could find something to keep me occupied.”

“No. I didn’t.”

“Oh, then, if you didn’t, and you thought I was going to, what was your plan? Just stare at me for a couple hours? Or whine at me until I decided to entertain you?” Minho was teasing him, and he knew it. But that didn’t stop Changbin from hiding his face in his arms on the table. Doing his best to ignore Minho’s chuckles.

When Minho finally finished teasing Changbin the two were able to have a pleasant conversation afterward. They spent a couple of hours just sitting and talking. While they certainly spend a lot of time talking and video chatting when they aren’t together, it had been a while since they just spent hours alone chatting without any interruptions.

Afterwards, they both agreed they should spend some time around the city since they were already out. There were a few shops they spotted on their way to the café they thought would be interesting to stop into as well as an arcade. Since Chan and Felix mentioned they were just going to spend the rest of the day on the beach, neither had any qualms about having the car for the rest of the day. So, that’s what they did. A couple more hours at the café, then a few shopping, followed by dinner and they found a park to stroll around in for a while more afterwards. By the time they made it back to the house, it was quite late into the night.

“How did it go? Did Minho like it? Did you two have a good time? You were out really late. Did you say anything special to him?” Felix pestered Changbin as soon as he was alone the following day.

“I feel like you and I had very different expectations for yesterday. Minho liked the café, yes. Then we just felt like hanging around the city. Not sure what you are thinking happened.”

“Come on. You were out all that time, just the two of you, and you didn’t say anything to him?”

“I said lots to him, so I don’t know what you’re thinking. We had many different conversations across several different topics. What was I supposed to specifically said to him? Hmm?” Changbin could easily guess what Felix was trying to get to, but he wasn’t going to give him that satisfaction.

“Bin,” Felix whined. “You’re impossible.”

“Why is Changbin impossible?” Minho asked, joining them.

“I was apparently supposed to tell you something yesterday but I’m the impossible one for not knowing what he means,” Changbin informed slightly purposely riling Felix up.

“Yeah, sounds about right. So, Lixie, what was he supposed to have told me?” Felix looked between the two, each giving him a cocky smile and huffed.

“Well now I’m not going to say. He can piece it together on his own,” Felix announced and stomped off.

“He’s so adorable when we annoy him,” Minho said between laughing. “Especially since it usually takes so much to get him to this level.”

“He should know better than to try and plot something involving the two of us.”

“So, you’ve figured it out?”

“Eh,” Changbin shrugged. “I’ve got an idea of what he’s trying to do. No idea why though.”

“I guess nothing will stop him once he’s set his mind on something. Though how he came to his conclusion, I’m not sure.”

“I’d ask if we should play along, but I feel like that will have him asking more questions than us just teasing him.”

“Probably would. It’ll be interesting to see what he tries to come up with in the few days we have left. And you know he’s got Chan helping too.”

“Is Chan helping or is Chan just his convenient alibi?” Changbin pondered.

“Probably a little both.” Changbin hummed an agreement and the two switched their topic to the rest of the day’s plans.

~

The next couple of days, Chan and Felix spent most of their time convincing Minho and Changbin to go out with them only to ditch them shortly after. Took them into town only to leave them in the park with a message to meet them for dinner reservations. And then for Minho and Changbin to arrive at the restaurant only to find the reservation for just two and that Chan and Felix would not be joining them. Then there was a beach side picnic they all set up together, and the two claimed to run to get the last of their supplies only to not return for a couple hours. And once they finally got in the water, while Minho and Changbin were chatting, they swam off to who knows where. That was the one that annoyed Minho the most out of everything and he gave Felix quite the lecture that evening. Chan was also not spared from a lecture, though most of Minho’s focus was on Felix.

On the third day, Minho straight up refused any invitation from Chan or Felix. He holed himself up in his room, Changbin occasionally checking up on him and bringing up some food. That’s all Changbin bothered him with as well until later in the evening.

“Hey,” Changbin casually started with. Minho glanced up at him and just gave a nod of acknowledgement. “So, Chan and Felix are heading up to go watch the sunset.”

“Did they ask you to beg me to go?” Minho asked already annoyed.

“Nope. They already left and didn’t know I was telling you. Though I’m sure they assumed I would. Pretty sure they just told me so there wasn’t a repeat of yesterday.”

“Should’ve told mom and dad to ground them for the rest of the trip.”

“We’re all adults and we only have a handful of days left. Between your lecture and the one they got from your parents this morning, I think they learned their lesson.”

“They better have.” Changbin sighed. He can’t blame Minho for being upset with the other two, but he also can’t help but feel Minho is being a little too harsh with Felix. He knows Minho panicked when they noticed they were gone, Changbin did too. But they both should have immediately realized what was going on. It was no different to any of the other times it’s happened except they were in the water.

“Anyways. For no reason other than my own, I wanted to ask if you wanted to go watch the sunset too. Though, I have a different spot in mind from where they are going.”

“Why?”

“Because the sunsets here are supposed to be amazing and we haven’t bothered to stop and watch one yet. And unfortunately, our balcony is facing the wrong way for sunsets. We don’t even see the sunrises. Really, it’s the only negative of this place. No sunrise views and not west facing enough to really get the sunset either. Do you see the sunrise during your jog in the morning?”

“Maybe once or twice. But if you want to go, you can go, you don’t need me.”

“One, your parents stressed that we use the buddy system while we are here, and I am not going to upset your parents by running off on my own. Two, it’ll be lonely and boring by myself. I need you to entertain me.” Minho scoffed lightheartedly at that point. “And lastly, maybe I just want to go with you. Unless you’re tired of me of course. But it’d be nice to go out on completely our own accord and not be worried about them.”

“I’m not tired of you. Just tired of Felix’s antics and meddling right now.”

“If you really don’t want to go, it’s fine. I’m not going to beg, or force you, or guilt trip you.” Changbin waited patiently for Minho to think it over.

“Where are you thinking?” Minho finally asked.

“Can that be a bit of a surprise?” Minho raised an eyebrow. “I mean, just the specifics. I know those two are going to the popular date spot for sunsets, but I have heard about another spot that is just an amazing view and like a local spot that’s never too busy. I’ll drive too.”

“Alright, fine. You’ve talked me into it. But I assume we need to leave quickly if we are going.” Changbin beamed.

“Yes, we do. You do whatever you need to get ready, and I’ll prepare some stuff and meet you by the car in ten minutes?” As soon as Minho agreed, Changbin bounded out of the room, bursting with excitement and Minho couldn’t help but watch with a smile.

Changbin was waiting at the car as promised, closing the trunk just as Minho walked out of the house. He ushered Minho into the passenger seat before he tried to look in the trunk himself. Changbin wanted to keep all of it a surprise, it was rare he got to do something like this for Minho and he was going to take full advantage.

Minho couldn’t help but be curious the entire drive. Changbin took them into town rather than further down the coast like he knew Chan and Felix headed. The town was built over a few hills, many of the buildings being built into the landscape to some extent even, and Changbin took them up to one of the taller hills in the town. They had previously walked up some of it during one of their first days, but they never reached the peak, it being a more residential area rather than tourist and no one felt up to the full walk. Near the top was a small park they were able to park close enough to.

Changbin handed one tote bag to Minho when they got out, while he grabbed the other himself. All Minho could see in it was a large blanket but based on weight however, he had to assume there was more in there. Changbin led him into the park itself and very quickly Minho could see why he would pick this place. The park had a clear view of not just the water, but of most of the town too. Minho had to admit that it was breathtaking and while the view was clear of any obstructions, it was also built in a way that Minho’s fear of heights was nowhere to be seen. It was part of the reason he had no interest in the well-known spot, it was near a bit of a cliff face.

Changbin pulled Minho out of his daze quite literally, to the spot he had chosen. He grabbed the blanket out of Minho’s bag and laid it out for them to sit on. Finally, Minho could see what was underneath and found a couple drinks for each of them and a second blanket. While Minho was investigating that, Changbin grabbed more supplies out of his own bag, a large pillow Minho has no idea how he got to fit in the bag, a deck of cards, food, and a small battery powered lantern. Changbin must have prepared most of it before even asking Minho along because there was no way he got it ready in just ten minutes.

“Is it too much? I wanted us to be comfortable,” Changbin nervously asked as he watched Minho just stare at all of it.

“No. Not at all. I just wasn’t expecting it. Were you that confident I would say yes?” Minho asked as he sat down.

“Ah, not really. Just hopeful. I had been planning on asking since I heard about this place but with Felix’s behavior, I got nervous. I didn’t want you to think it was just another one of his attempts or for him to ask us a million questions just because we went out for a while. So, them going out was the perfect chance. But really, if you had said no, it would have been fine too.”

“I know. You only ever beg or get insistent on me doing something if it’s super important. You never put pressure on me for something that is just a want.”

“Of course not. If I want to do something with you, I want you to want to do it too. It’s no fun if I drag you around unwillingly. You’re impossible to actually drag and that’s just too much work for me.” Minho punched Changbin in the shoulder while he was too busy laughing at himself which only made Changbin laugh harder. He knew Minho wasn’t actually upset at the comment as he was trying not to smile while watching him.

When Changbin settled down, he grabbed some of the food and passed a drink to Minho. Minho took the hint and grabbed the pillow to prop behind them so they could actually see the sunset as they spoke and ate. It was very easy to get comfortable with the set up and Minho had his phone ready to take pictures through the whole evening.

Minho had no regrets of taking Changbin up on his offer. By the time the sun had fully set, Minho’s phone storage was filled with pictures of the sunset, town, and a few of them too. They spent the whole time just chatting and snacking on everything Changbin packed. It was a very relaxed and easy-going night they both needed after the chaotic days of Felix and Chan keeping them on their toes. Sure, they had the time in between being ditched together but very quickly it was weighing on their mind as they tried to anticipate what Felix and Chan would do.

When they were headed home, it was not as easy to pack everything up the same way Changbin had it the first time, so carrying it back was a little messier and more of a handful. Minho offered to drive back since Changbin drove in and he still wasn’t the most confident of drivers most of the time especially at night. It certainly made getting back to the house much easier, though they both noticed Felix and Chan were already back.

Thankfully when they got in, it seemed like the other two were already in their room when they entered the house. Changbin went ahead and sent Minho up first, promising he would take care of their stuff and the dishes. Minho tried to argue but once everything was inside, Changbin sent him away. And Changbin was very glad he did.

Whilst Changbin was washing the dishes, Felix had made his way back downstairs under the guise of getting a drink. Changbin though, is certain Felix heard him and came to question him. They both stayed silent for a while, Changbin washing the dishes and Felix sitting at the island counter with a bottle of water.

“So, where did you two head out for so long?” Felix finally asked.

“Into town.”

“Anything interesting?”

“Not in particular,” Changbin said.

“Are you hiding something?”

“No. What’s there to hide?”

“I don’t know. You’re just not telling me anything.” Felix pouted.

“What’s there to tell? Felix, you and I have known Minho for basically the same amount of time. To the point I forget whether I was friends with him, before or after he met you. Which means, you are very familiar with Minho and I being alone together. So, I’m not sure why you suddenly feel the need to nag about our every moment together.” Changbin was keeping his tone even the whole time, not wanting to physically yell at Felix for his meddling.

“I just want to know,” Felix whined.

“Felix. Stop,” Changbin said a little sterner. “I know you mean well. I am glad you are happy with Chan and want to extend that to Minho and I. But. We are adults, we can handle things ourselves and decide what we want. We do not need you shoving yourself into business that should be just between him and I.”

“But,” Felix started again.

“No.” Changbin left no room for further comments and had thankfully finished the dishes. “I’m going to bed, turn the lights off before you head up.”

~

Felix thankfully took Changbin’s words to heart and didn’t bother them the next day. At least not the same way he had been the days before. Felix wasn’t trying to push Minho and Changbin together or using Chan as an excuse to slip away. He instead went back to their usual dynamic that they have had for years. Hanging on Minho and teasing the other two all day. It was very refreshing compared to the rest of their trip.

The day after was their planned tripped to the amusement park which Felix had originally planned ahead for. The plans were easy enough to come up with. Minho was afraid of heights and avoided roller coasters when he could, and Chan and Changbin both were scared of the rides but always insisted on riding. So, the idea was Chan would go on the rides with him and they would convince Changbin to do other things with Minho. But now, Felix was debating on going through with it.

“So don’t,” Chan said simply after Felix explained everything to him. Felix was sitting on their bed watching as Chan went around the room preparing for the morning and for bed at the same time.

“But what if they never do anything and this is all just a missed opportunity that I’ll regret?”

“Felix,” Chan sighed. “It’s not your place to regret it. Changbin is right. They are adults and they can decide whether to act on their feelings or not. In the end, your interference won’t matter. Could it have helped? Maybe. But in the end, it’s their choice to say something or to stay as they are.”

“I just want them happy.”

“What says they aren’t happy now?”

“They’ve been pinning and dancing around each other for nearly two years. How can they go that long without saying something and it not weigh them down?”

“Some people don’t have a problem setting those feelings aside,” Chan explained. “You are more open and direct with your feelings than either of them, so you don’t like leaving things unsaid. It’s why you had no problem deciding you needed to confess to Changbin and later me. Minho’s never been good with feelings. And Changbin is good at dealing with everyone’s feelings and problems but his own. I’m not surprised neither have spoken up about it.”

“That’s why they needed the push,” Felix argued.

“But were they ready for the push is what we didn’t think about.” Chan finally sat down next to Felix and pulled him into a hug. “I know you mean well Lixie. But let them decide their happiness and what that entails, confessing or not. They will still be best friends and have us too and that’s kept them happy for a long time.”

“I suppose.”

~

The amusement park was a bit of a drive from their rental home so by the time they arrived, everyone was ready to be out of the car. Their parents had decided they would all start together, but if they decided they wanted to split off they could later and just set meeting points. This plan worked well because Felix and their dad wanted to hit the roller coasters first, dragging Chan and Changbin with them. Minho and their mom were brave enough to get on a couple of them, but mostly waited off to the side where they could watch. It was easy to tell when they made it on cause Changbin’s screams were always the most noticeable. Minho took the chance to get lots of pictures and a few videos to share with them later.

It was after lunch that their parents decided to split off from them. The four wandered around the park for a while before they came across the area filled with a bunch of booths with small carnival games. It didn’t take long for them to pick a booth and make it a competition. Not surprisingly, Chan being the most athletic between the three of them, won the most, filling Felix’s arms with a collection of stuffed animals. Thankfully, one of the booth operators offered a bag for Felix to help carry them all. Changbin and Minho walking away with a couple each as well.

At one point, Chan and Felix saw a couple more booths they wanted to check out, but Minho and Changbin saw some sort of event happening at the plaza next to them. They decided to split for the moment, though both pairs promising not to leave the area and meet in the plaza.

When Changbin and Minho got closer to the plaza, they could hear better what was going on. There was an event for pairs who could pick a level of prize and if they completed a randomly picked challenge, they won a prize. They watched a few teams try it, getting more interested as they went. It also seemed that any pair could challenge, there were no rules. There were quite a few parent-child teams, many friends, siblings, and then of course a few couples who challenged the event. After a few glances to each other, Changbin and Minho got in line for the event. They studied the different prize levels and the types of challenges set for each while they waited. Ultimately, they decided on the top tier prize to challenge for, with the option of a new phone, gift cards, or food vouchers for the most expensive restaurant in the park.

“Oh, we have a platinum tier challenge on our hands,” the host announced when Minho and Changbin said their decision. He grabbed the box that held the random challenges for their tier in it and held it out for them to choose from. Minho let Changbin pick, and the host took the paper from Changbin once he drew it.

“This is the highest tier, so these are our toughest challenges. Let’s see what you chose.” The host unfolded the paper and held it up for everyone to see. “Do ten squats while holding your teammate without pausing and within thirty seconds,” The host read, eyeing Changbin. “I think you two might have a chance at this.”

“Do I have to be the one doing the squats?” Changbin asked.

“No. Not at all, it can be either of you, but whoever you pick has to do all ten, you can’t split them.”

“Got it.” Changbin looked back at Minho who was already expecting it and nodded. “Yeah, he’s going to do the squats. I look beefier up top, but he has the thighs and has a much easier time lifting me than I do lifting him.”

“Alright, when you are ready, I’ll start the timer and the count.” Minho gave a quick stretch to prepare himself and stood just behind Changbin with Changbin’s one arm already over his shoulder, ready to scoop him up and start.

They both gave a nod to the host who gave them the go and started the clock. Minho quickly got his hands under Changbin’s knees and back, lifting him, while Changbin held onto his shoulders. Minho was obviously doing his best to go as quickly as he could. But to Changbin, those thirty seconds seemed to stretch out much longer. He kept his eyes on Minho the whole time even though he was getting bounced with each lift, not so gracefully. He honestly was a little sad when it finished, though thrilled they beat the challenge with a couple seconds to spare. Minho was of course, understandably, worn out when he set Changbin down. Thankfully an assistant handed him a bottle of water.

“Congratulations you two, that was an impressive showing. And of course, here is your prize,” the host handed them the vouchers for the restaurant. They didn’t get to pick which prize in the tier they won, but both were pleased with the result.

“I guess Changbin wasn’t joking when he said you could probably bench press him,” Felix teased as he and Chan joined them now out of the main crowd for the event.

“You guys saw?” Changbin asked in shock.

“Yeah, we had just started looking for you guys when we saw you walk up for the challenge,” Chan explained.

“I recorded the whole thing,” Felix proudly announced. “I’m also pretty sure most of the audience is now eyeing Minho.”

“Too bad for them. I’m not interested and Changbin was my limit. If they want someone to lift them, they have to go find someone else.”

“Anyways, what did you win?” Chan asked, half ignoring Minho’s comment.

“Food vouchers,” Changbin said.

“Oh, that seems kind of disappointing to the other options,” Felix said looking disappointed himself, but Changbin shook his head and explained further.

“No. We actually were hoping for these. They’re all-inclusive vouchers for the most expensive restaurant in the park. Aka, free fancy expensive meal.”

“But mom and dad were paying for dinner. What would it matter?” Felix questioned.

“Mom and Dad weren’t planning on this restaurant. So, either we are ditching you all for dinner, you guys get to eat at this restaurant because suddenly they are only worried about feeding the four of you, or Changbin and I will go eat now, and then join you all for dinner later too.”

“What? You wouldn’t take us along? I want to eat at the fancy restaurant too.”

“I’m not paying for you. You want to eat there, talk to mom and dad. I’m the one who did all the work to earn these.”

“Hey, I was your teammate,” Changbin tried to defend himself.

“Yeah, and your job was to just look cute while I did the hard part.”

“Oh, well did I do a good job then?” Minho tried to sigh but it came out more as a laugh, while Chan groaned, and Felix announced he was calling his mom. “Wow. None of you can tell a man if he was cute or not? So disappointing.”

With Felix’s call to their parents, and a lot of begging on Felix’s part, it was decided they would all go to the restaurant. After hanging up, their parents called and made the reservation to be on the safe side and texted Minho and Felix the time for them to meet. It was still a few hours away, so they still had time to do as they pleased.

Since they had taken a break from the rides, Felix was eager to get on some again, dragging the other three with him. Minho agreed to ride one of them but sat out the other two. When they finished the third and Chan and Changbin looked like zombies, Minho suggested they hit the arcade.

The arcade section also included bumper cars and a go kart track which all four were eager to try out. Minho may be the slowest runner between them, but he has them all beat in go karts, easily placing first. Bumper cars was harder to pick a winner, though Chan managed to avoid getting hit for most of it even though, the other three all teamed up to try a get him once they noticed. When they finished there, they headed into the heart of the arcade to hit up all the classic games. A two-on-two game of air hockey, round robin on a fighting game, shooting competition, and even a few goes at a claw machine ate up most of their remaining time. The last thing they did at the arcade was take a ton of pictures in the photobooth.

Thankfully, they had factored the time it would take to get to the restaurant in already as they were basically on the complete other end of the park. Their parents were already waiting for them when they arrived. Minho and Changbin’s vouchers weren’t quite as all inclusive as they initially thought, but the deal for each was still way worth it and actually made it easier to share with the rest of the family.

Of course, the topic of how they won the vouchers was brought up and Felix was quick to share the video he took. And sharing that video led to them sharing all of the other pictures and videos they took and explained how they each got their stuffed animals and other prizes they’ve been lugging around.

After dinner, they hit up a couple last rides before making the drive back to the house. Everyone was exhausted when they arrived, half of them having fallen asleep in the car too. No one really said anything, just quietly headed straight for bed.

Changbin woke up later to find Minho no longer in bed with him and checked his phone for the time. As it was still the middle of the night, Changbin was worried as to where he went. He didn’t have to look hard thankfully. As soon as he sat up with the intention of looking, he noticed the door to the balcony cracked open and Minho’s shadow in the window. He debated just leaving him by himself and going back to sleep, but something was nagging him to go out.

Minho of course noticed as soon as Changbin stepped out onto the balcony, taking the seat next to him.

“Did I wake you?” Minho quietly asked once Changbin was seated.

“I don’t know. How long have you been out here?”

“Like twenty minutes or so, I think.”

“Then probably not, unless I just subconsciously was missing you being in bed.” Changbin tried to smirk, but it came off more like a drunken smile in his half-asleep state. “Why are you up?”

“Don’t know. Just woke up and wasn’t going back to sleep, so I figured I would grab some air and see if that helped.”

“Well since we’re up, can I ask you something?” Minho shrugged. “This is an odd question, but I realized I don’t remember, but did you meet me or Felix first?”

“That is an odd question, why?”

“No real reason. Just mentioned it to Felix the other day and realized I didn’t remember. I know if we were friends, we weren’t super close yet. And I know Chan was at your first meeting, which I never knew why to that either.”

“I don’t actually remember the order either. You both kind of came into my life at nearly the same time. But Chan being there is easy to answer. It was dad’s idea, he figured me with the grumpy face who wasn’t good at getting close to people could use a familiar person as an ice breaker. But also, Felix hadn’t been living in Korea for that long, so his Korean was minimal. Basically, Chan was like a mini translator that allowed Felix and I to chat without our parents hovering the entire time. Honestly, it was probably also to Felix’s benefit to meet someone else from his hometown in his new home.”

“That makes sense. I remember I didn’t meet him for quite some time, but you and Chan talked about him occasionally. It felt weird cause our friendship was new, but you also just met this other kid and seemed to be instantly attached, I felt like I was doing something wrong.”

“No, you weren’t doing anything wrong. Felix just has that charm to him that makes everyone want to take care of him as soon as they meet him. Even when he’s a bit of a brat, I’m glad he’s my brother.”

“Yeah, I realized that when I finally met him.” Changbin gave a light breathy chuckle that turned into a sigh. “Though that didn’t lessen the feeling that I wasn’t doing enough. I talked to Chan a number of times when we were younger to ask him if I needed to do more, or even just confirm you saw me as a friend.” Minho looked up at Changbin, wide-eyed, but Changbin kept his gaze out to the water.

“Sorry. I know I was difficult back then. You also mentioned earlier in the trip about being worried you don’t fit in with us.”

“Yeah, it’s a feeling I get from time to time. And I know you all never do anything purposefully to make me feel like that, it’s just my own head getting in the way. It just sometimes makes me feel like one day you three are going to go off without me. You never have, but sometimes that feeling nags at me.”

“Changbin,” Minho started quietly and more gently than Changbin is used to hearing him and took his hands, forcing Changbin to face him. “No matter what Chan or Felix are to me, you are just as important a person in my life as they are. And I know they feel the same. I obviously can’t just stop your head from making you feel that way, but I will always do what I can to reassure you that you belong here.” Changbin’s breath hitched briefly with how intense and caring Minho was staring at him.

“Thank you. You do always reassure me, even when you’re not trying to. It’s one of the many things about you that made me fall for you.” This time it was Minho’s turn to hitch a breath. “Sorry, that was sudden, but I had been thinking of saying it for some time now, but never had the courage.”

“What made you change your mind? You weren’t originally planning on doing it when we went to the sunset, were you?”

“No. I meant what I said that night. It’s been nagging at me for a while to actually get my feelings out there. But when we started this trip and especially since Felix started trying to force us together, I resisted. I didn’t want to push my feelings on you just because Felix knew and wanted that. And especially since you knew what he was doing too.”

“Yeah, the night we did the movie, Chan talked to me about liking you too. That’s what I was mad at Felix for telling him. They were suggesting I say something to you, so when they kept ditching us, it was obvious. I don’t know how to talk about this stuff, so I didn’t know how to say anything, and their pressure wasn’t helping.” Minho’s face was definitely flushed at this point, as he looked back out to the water, not wanting to fully face Changbin as he admitted everything, though never letting go of his hands.

“So, you do like me? I really couldn’t let myself believe you could but then I started questioning it when we admitted we each knew Felix’s plan.”

“Yeah, I do. A lot.” Changbin let out the breath he was holding and was almost in tears. “What made you decide to confess again if Felix was making you want to wait?” Minho looked back at Changbin when he took one of his hands back to wipe the tears threatening his eyes as he laughed a little.

“This is going to sound silly, but just earlier when we did the challenge. There was just something about you holding me then that made me want to say something and make sure I always had you right there. Though I was originally thinking of saying something when we go to the festival later. But now was good too.” Changbin gave a shy smile.

“Now was definitely good.” Minho mirrored Changbin’s smile. “And the festival will just have to be our first date.”

“A date?” Changbin questioned, not expecting that, but thought on it for a moment. “Yeah. I would love that.”

The two stayed out on the balcony for a little longer, quietly chatting and enjoying the sea breeze. But it was still the middle of the night and they needed sleep. Minho gently pulled them both back to bed when he felt himself getting sleepy again and noticed Changbin yawning.

“I hope you don’t mind if I cuddle up against you,” Minho said once they were back under the covers.

“It wouldn’t be the first time.” Minho went wide eyed. “You’ve curled up against me a few times before when I’ve been in bed awake while you slept. I’m just glad I won’t have to worry about waking you on accident and panicking about it or something anymore,” Changbin explained. Minho didn’t bother saying anything else, just scooted closer to Changbin and immediately pulled him in to cuddle. Changbin laughed quietly but settled in and both were asleep in no time.

The following day was their last full day of vacation. Their only plans were for the evening when they would go into town for a festival. Before that however, they spent most of the day down at the beach and then doing some cleaning and packing. They would need to leave by early afternoon the next day to make it to their flight, so didn’t want to leave everything for the morning.

The festival was on the edge of town near another section of the beach. It wasn’t super close but walkable enough. So midafternoon, they headed off to the festival.

The festival was packed with people and booths. Food, local crafts, games, and other small shops were set up along the roads and parks leading down to the beach where a couple small rides and events for kids were set up. Later in the evening there was to be a big firework showcase, but until then, they had plenty of time to wander around.

As usual for their trip, their parents were the first ones to split off from the group. Since a lot of local artisans set up booths, it was also the best time to buy some last-minute souvenirs of their trip. Minho being the one who knows Felix’s friends the best, was dragged along to help pick something out for each of them. Once Felix decided he had enough trinkets and gifts for his other friends and Chan and Changbin were able to do their own shopping, they stopped for food. It was then, that Changbin and Minho found the chance to split off and actually make it somewhat of a date.

When they finished eating, Minho and Changbin made the excuse of not wanting to let Chan and Felix waste the opportunity to have a romantic final night of vacation in order to slip away for themselves. Chan and Felix themselves were too caught off guard to make an argument and simply watched them leave.

“I guess they didn’t expect us to turn their antics on them,” Changbin said laughing to himself. “What do you want to do first?” Minho shrugged.
“Maybe just take a stroll? Head towards the beach first and then we can check out the games on the way back to watch the fireworks?” Minho suggested after mulling it over for a minute. Changbin had no complaints or other suggestions, so that’s what they did.

They walked around slowly, enjoying the atmosphere of the festival. At one point, Minho ever so slightly moved his hand closer to Changbin’s, barely touching Changbin with his pinky. Changbin looked down to their hands and then back up to Minho’s face, not noticing anything, but instinct told him he needs to grab Minho’s hand and that’s what he does. He looked back at Minho’s face and could see the hint of a smile which in turn made him smile. They have held hands plenty of times in the past, usually with the intent of not losing each other in crowd, but sometimes it’s for comfort. Minho never talked about it, but he frequently needed someone, usually Changbin, to hold his hand when he was nervous. It was already a habit, but this time it had an extra meaning.

It was comfortable walking around as the sun started setting. They had spent some time down on the beach enjoying the breeze and watching all the kids play on the games and rides set up for them nearby. The fireworks were to start just after sun set, so they made their way back up the hill. They stopped off to play a couple games, carefully avoiding Chan and Felix who they could see in the distance. They also grabbed some snacks before finding a good, somewhat secluded spot for the fireworks.

“So, did you think we would be together at the end of this trip?” Changbin asked breaking the silence they had when the fireworks started.

“Well, I certainly wasn’t saying anything so no.”

“You were going to leave everything up to me, weren’t you?”

“Probably yeah. And you did, so it worked.” Changbin nudged Minho in the shoulder to stop him laughing. “I mean, if you didn’t, we would’ve most likely ended up still some how living together and being very domestic but constantly avoiding the topic of us being in a relationship.”

“Would we have been sharing a room, or separate in this version?” Minho pondered it for a moment.

“We would have had separate rooms but frequently share beds just because we like to cuddle. And because we often let Chan and Felix use one of our rooms when they visit and stay the night.”

“Makes sense. And I suppose you would be getting off of work before me and always making sure dinner was ready when I got home. Of course, I would do the dishes afterwards. And I would use you cooking as an excuse to get out of after work functions which only further makes people think we are dating,” Changbin added.

“Exactly. And it wouldn’t help that while we would try to date other people a few times, the relationships were short lived, and usually we would get broken up with because they would be uncomfortable with how close you and I are.”

“It would be no real loss because they weren’t adding anything to our lives that we didn’t have with each other. So of course, we would have both just given up trying to date,” Changbin finished with and eventually both of them broke out laughing. Really it wasn’t that far-fetched to think about.

“So, if that’s how we would’ve been if last night went differently, what’s our real future going to look like?” Minho question and Changbin stopped to think.

“Not that different. Of course, we will be completely sharing a room and bed. Our spare room we will make into a guest bedroom and office space. That way we can work at home when needed but also Felix and Chan have a place to crash when they want. Obviously, we wouldn’t need to have the awkward other dating attempts or avoiding our relationship status. But you’ll still cook for me most nights and I’ll do the dishes. And I’ll use you to get out of things. I’d say there would be more cuddling, but probably not by much.” When Changbin clearly finished, Minho hummed in agreement.

“I think you’re right. Clearly, we were always going to be in a relationship whether we actually were or not. But I think you forgot one thing.”

“And what’s that?”

“You said more cuddling, but what about like kissing?”

“Kissing?” Minho nodded. “I mean sure, there probably would be.”

“Which speaking of, we’re here and it’s a rather romantic setting, seems like the perfect time to have our first kiss,” Minho suggested just as the finale of the firework show started.

“Now?” Changbin questioned, wide eyed and stuttering but not getting any other words out.

“We don’t have to of course. It’s our first date, if you’re not ready we can wait. Don’t be afraid to say no.”

“No!” Changbin shouted immediately. Minho was taken by surprise this time but shrugged it off.

“Okay, we can wait.”

“No. Wait. That’s not what I meant.”

“Changbin relax,” Minho said laughing gently at Changbin getting all worked up. “It doesn’t matter to me if we do it now, tomorrow, in a week, a year, or even never. Don’t think you have to make yourself do it for my sake.”

“But I want to.”

“You want to do it for my sake? Changbin please.”

“No. I want to do it. For both of our sakes?” Minho raised an eyebrow. “I mean, I want to do it because I want to, which is for me. And you want to do it, so that’s for you which makes it for both of us, right?” Minho laughed again.

“I think you are overthinking again. So, I’ll ask again to make it easier. Do you want to kiss?”

“Yes,” Changbin said more determined this time. Minho leaned over into his space, one hand immediately going to the back of his neck.

“Good,” Minho said right before he finally closed the rest of the distance between them.

While they were busy, they didn’t notice the fireworks had ended and Chan and Felix stumbling upon them. Felix spotted them first and immediately gasped and hid behind a tree, dragging Chan with them. Both poked their heads around the tree to see they had not disturbed Minho and Changbin and agreed to leave them alone. Instead, they quietly headed off to find their parents and just text Minho and Changbin where to meet them.

Felix waited until they were back to the house before saying something. He rushed up to his room to clean up and prepare for bed first. Chan gave him a skeptical look when he joined but left Felix alone to take care of himself and continue packing his luggage some more. It was only when Felix finished putting the last of his stuff away and rushed out of the room that Chan felt the need to follow.

“What are you doing?” Chan whispered stopping Felix before he could go into the other pair’s room.

“Asking them. I didn’t want to ruin the moment earlier, but now I need to know.”

“You could maybe wait until they tell you themselves.”

“I’m too impatient for that,” Felix admitted. “It took them this long to say something to each other, who knows how long they will keep it on the downlow from us.”

“That doesn’t mean you have to say something now. You could wait a couple days. If you forgot, you have annoyed them recently.”

“Will you stop whispering outside our door,” Minho shouted from inside. “Either come in or go elsewhere.”

Felix took his chance of a sort of invitation to go in. Chan reluctantly followed. Changbin was in the closet going through the remaining clothes he had, throwing some on the bed and others to his luggage bag. Minho on the other hand was sitting on the bed scrolling through his phone, only glancing up when Changbin threw something in his direction. Sometimes Minho would pick up the last thing he threw and toss it at Changbin’s luggage himself.

“What are you doing?” Chan asked after watching them for a moment.

“Could ask you the same. You two were the ones whispering loudly at our door,” Changbin said, judging the next shirt he grabbed, not even looking over to Chan and Felix.

“He’s deciding what he wants to wear home tomorrow,” Minho answered for Changbin.

“I was trying to save you from trouble,” Chan admitted pointing at Felix.

“And what was trouble trying to do?”

“Hey. I’m not trouble. I just wanted to know when you two finally confessed to each other.” Felix didn’t miss the look Changbin and Minho shared. “I saw you at the festival.”

“We were looking for you after the fireworks to head home and might have caught you,” Chan tried to explain better.

“It was last night,” Changbin stated. “Or well this morning I guess.”

“The middle of the night?” Felix asked confused.

“We both woke up, had a chat, and it happened. No big deal.” Changbin grabbed the last thing he had in the closet and was about add it to the pile on the bed, but Minho gave him a look and pointed to the bag.

“So, I helped?”

“No,” Minho and Changbin answered together. Felix pouted.

“Not even a little?”

“Actually, you almost made it not happen. Not permanently, but it wasn’t helping. You were making it feel forced and pressured.”

“And you should know both of us, we’re more stubborn when being forced into something,” Minho added. Changbin held up some clothes in Minho’s direction. “What is with you and Chan and wearing all black all the time?” Minho ignored Chan’s complaint and shifted through the pile and pulled out a pair of lighter jeans. “Go for these and you can keep the shirt.”

“Were you at least going to tell me?”

“Yeah. Probably in a couple days. We weren’t going to keep it from you, just give you time to chill out and for all of us to get settled back home.”

“Alright,” Felix said with a sigh. “I can accept that. Even if I wasn’t a help, I’m glad you two worked it out.”

Minho could see Felix fidgeting where he stood so he held his arms out slightly. Felix immediately took the hint and dived into Minho’s arms. Minho had to brace himself to not get knocked into the headboard behind him, but let Felix settle in for a minute.

“Alright, go to bed,” Minho said when he was done with the hug. “We have to be up early enough to finish cleaning the house.”

“Fine.” Felix reluctantly got up. “Good night.”

“Night guys,” Chan added as he pulled Felix back out of the room.

Changbin looked up from his packing and smirked up at Minho with a little laugh.

“What?”

“You can’t let him pout for more than a minute, can you?” Changbin said teasingly.

“We told him straight, and he already suffered both of us yelling at him and he backed off. I don’t need to punish him any more than that. So no, I’m not going to let him pout for any longer.”

“Softy.”

“Shut up.” Minho threw a pair of pants at the laughing Changbin.

The morning was spent just as Minho said with everyone cleaning the house, so it was spotless and looked as close to the way it was when they arrived as possible. Their bags were packed, and every nook and cranny searched to make sure they didn’t forget anything. They piled most of their bags by the front door and loaded some of the larger ones into the cars already. With about an hour to spare, they headed down to the beach one last time.

Felix and Chan were quick to slip off their sandals and play in the shallow part of the water. They knew they would have to clean up again before they left, but decided it was worth it. They tried to stick to only ankle-deep water and sometimes raced the waves back to dry sand to avoid getting their pants wet. Minho was content to stay out of the water’s path and watch the others play around. Changbin kept going back and forth, though was mostly trying to avoid getting wet. It was a nice way to say goodbye to the beach they had enjoyed for a couple of weeks.

Minho however, got an idea and stood near the edge of where the water would flow to and called Felix over. Felix of course immediately came and stood next to him no questions asked. Minho put and arm around Felix’s waist, to which Felix copied with an arm around Minho’s shoulders. They stood in a comfortable silence for a moment until Minho broke it by pushing Felix to stand in front of him so he could scoop Felix up. Felix slightly tried to fight it, but he knew there was no winning and let it happen. Chan and Changbin just stood back, watching, and not interfering.

“So, Felix, I need to be sure that you have learned your lesson and won’t be trying to play matchmaker in the future.”

“Yes, I won’t interfere anymore,” Felix announced curling into Minho’s shoulder.

“You promise? Cause if you can’t promise me that, I’ll just have to toss you in water right now.” Felix somehow managed to tighten his grip around Minho’s neck and shoulders and started aggressively shaking his head. Chan and Changbin would be worried if it wasn’t for the smile also on Felix’s face and the slight giggling.

“No. Don’t. I promise. I promise.”

“Good,” Minho said with a big grin on his own face, though to Felix it still looked slightly threatening. “Chan,” Minho called out over his shoulder.

“What’s up?” Chan asked hesitantly joining them.

“I’m all done. Here.” Before Chan realized it, he was being passed Felix, and was quick to grab him before Minho could just drop him. Felix himself had a moment of panic and rushed to at least grab Chan’s shirt. Thankfully, Chan was able to adjust and hold onto Felix quickly so there was no real risk of falling. Minho, however, didn’t bother to help and walked back to Changbin. Changbin was quick to take Minho’s hand and lead him on one last stroll along the beach. It may be the last for their vacation but only the beginning for their new relationship.

~