Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sun was shining brightly above Woozi's head. Rays were filtering through the clouds while the calm breeze stroking Woozi's long black hair. He loved the weather. Perfectly woven into a rhythmic melody singing faintly to his heart. He reached the cafe some minutes later. It was his favourite place to be, outside the college and his dorm. 

Getting his, all time go to frappucino with extra chocolate blends on a day when he feels like writing a song, only after settling into the comforting silence of his studio, is his solace. He entered the cafe to find it surprisingly less crowded. Well it was good for him, now he can sit there, working on a beat playing in his head since morning in peace. 

He headed to the counter to order his usual. Even the staff there knew him and his usual order cause he rarely changed it. But he hadn't visited the cafe past some days. It had been really hectic due to finals and he was working on a song which he hadn't been able to complete yet. A man was standing at the counter, his back facing woozi while he was humming a tune woozi couldn't recognize. 

"Excuse me, I'd like to order" woozi said to get the man's attention. The said man turned facing woozi, with a faint smile on his face. Do you know that feeling when you are putting on a song you have listened to, too many times expecting the usual but another song starts playing which you haven't heard before and it sounds okay ? A melody you'd like to hear more. It makes your heart race but in a rhythm you like. 

That's exactly how Woozi felt. The man had striking features, which were not normal korean, big brown eyes which mirrored the warm coffee and lips spread in a small smile like the faint clarinet in the background. His black hair curled in locks in some parts while some strangles falling onto his eyebrows like curtains. 

"Yes, what would you like to have ?" The man said in a voice woozi thought 100 songs could fit to. It was deep but raspy and bringing in a new flavour. "Uh I will have a frappucino with extra chocolate blend" Woozi said after a moment. "Sure, your name sir ?" the man asked in a low sexy voice. 

Or maybe woozi imagined it. "Woozi" he answered after contemplating whether he should tell his real name or his pen name. He deiced on the later one. "Anything else ?" The man asked with his big eyes shining. Woozi just shook his head. Somehow words got stuck in the back of his throat. "I will get it soon" the man answered giving woozi a small smile while his eyes glistened. 

➰️

Vernon was arranging the counter while humming a tune his mom listened to a lot. It had been just a week since he had got this part time job and he was alreadly liking it. The smell of coffee blended with different concoctions was getting to him. And people coming in, some for getting break from their busy schedule while others wandering in a lost cause, was a great addition. 

Noticing people always intrigued Vernon. Sometimes they were like an open book. He could read college kids' faces struggling to grasp a concept for their exams or people sitting with their laptops stressing onto emails. But sometimes they were like a mystery. And Vernon loved solving mysteries. 

He would keep guessing what the person sitting in the far corner might be doing when he was busy typing something on the laptop all the while sipping his cappucino, listening music in his big headphones and talking over the phone in between. He was lost in thoughts when a voice got him out from his reverie. 

"Excuse me, I'd like to order" a voice not too shrill but suitable for high notes reached his ears. He turned around to see a man a bit shorter than him, standing across the counter. At the first glance, he looked like a fluff ball you would want to keep hugging. 

You remember the feel when you see a beautiful dream where you were sitting beside the beach, humming to yourself, everything at peace. And then you wake up to realize it was a dream. You are about to frown upon the reality when light sunrays catch your attention. You look out of the window to find a sunny morning welcoming you, clear sky making you smile. It's so surreal you forget you were about to be ubset for something. 

Similar to what Vernon felt at the moment. The man looked like a fresh morning, his long black hair falling beautifully on his shoulders. His eyes sparkling like stars and his fair skin glowing as if light moonlight. Vernon remembered he was at his job. "Yes what would you like to have ?" Vernon asked the customer smiling to himself. 

"Uh I will have a frappucino with extra chocolate blend" the customer answered after a moment. "Sure, your name sir ?" Vernon asked the man. Good thing he is working there, he can ask the name without being a creep. "Woozi" the man answered in a voice which was just a bit louder than a whisper. 

Woozi, Vernon liked the name though he still doubted if it was man's real name. "Anything else ?" Vernon asked. The man shook his head. Cute, Vernon thought. "I will get it soon" Vernon said passing the man a smile unintentionally. No he isn't a creep hitting on his customer. Or maybe he is trying to hit on a cute stranger but having a smiley face is part of his job anyways. 

Woozi was sitting in the quiet corner, his laptop open in front of him while he was looking out of the window waiting for his coffee. "The weather is calming right ?" A familiar voice reached Woozi's ears. He turned his head to find the barista standing with coffee in his hand, smiling softly. He looked cute with a brown apron tied to his waist. 

"Oh yeah" Woozi replied some seconds later. Vernon was worried he would disturb Woozi but he still took the chance. "Here is your coffee" Vernon put the coffee on the table, with a playful smile. "Thank you" Woozi replied, returning the smile with his small one. "Have a good day" Vernon said with a slight nod as he had to get back to his work. "You too" Woozi replied with a bit hot cheeks. 

2 DAYS LATER : 

Woozi was sitting on the chair, Jeonghan laughing beside him on something stupid Joshua said. He was working on a song they were supposed to complete by the end of the month. But all Joshua and Jeonghan did was spewing stupid shit. He had worked out most of the lyrics. Rhythm was good enough too. 

But there was still something missing. And without completing it, they can't start working on the instruments. They need to practice it too. The compeition is just around the corner, 3 months away. "Will you guys focus here ?" Woozi said irriated, startling both Joshua and Jeonghan. 

"Jihoonaa, you know we are just messing around because we have no idea what are we missing in this song" Jeonghan said lovingly, sensing the irritation in younger's voice. "Woozi calm down. We will figure it out" Joshua tried comforting him. 

"Hyung we don't have time. And I feel like we need 1 more member to complete our band" Woozi said thoughtfully. "I know and we have put up the message on notice board and even distributed the pamphlets too. But you saw all the people who turned up" Joshua said as he thought about it. 

The people who had come to apply for the music club were all amateurs. They just liked listening to music, having no proper knowledge whatsoever. "We need to try it some other way" Jeonghan said after thinking it through. "And what do you mean by another way ?" Joshua asked him questioningly. 

He very well knew Jeonghan's mind. He was almost sure it would be some stupid idea suitable for making a fool of themselves. But as Jeonghan was about to answer, a knock on the door pulled their attention. They all looked to the side and Woozi couldn't be more shocked. 

➰️

Vernon was heading towards the Music club. His friend had told him about the same. Vernon was always interested in music. Singing along the music, banging his head with the beats and sometimes writing his own songs. It had always been his solace. 

When he found out there is an active club for that in his college, he couldn't stay put. He reached the door as he heard someone talking inside. The door was ajar, exposing half the room. He could see somebody sitting on the table but he would have to peek through to take a look. He knocked on the door opening it a bit further. 

3 heads turned to his side as 2 pair of eyes locked the gaze. Woozi was utterly surprised to see the same barista he was having a crush on. He was in normal clothes now, wearing a bright blue hoodie with blue jeans. His hair were falling beautifully on his temple as his big eyes looked mesmerizing. 

Vernon on the other hand was absolutely ecstatic. The cute customer he so wanted to know more was sitting in front of him. Woozi, he remembers very well, looked handsome in a black shirt. His long hair this time, were tied in a half bun. And man, they did steal Vernon's breath away. 

"Yes, come in" Joshua said making Woozi and Vernon break the eye contact. Vernon walked in feeling a bit nervous. "What are you doing here ?" Woozi asked Vernon, a bit out of his usual character. Before he realized the words were out of his mouth, curiosity getting the best of him. "You two know each other ?" Jeonghan asked slyly looking at woozi.  

"Not really. I work part time at the cafe across the college and he came there to get coffee once" Vernon answered instead of Woozi. "Ohh okay so why are you here ?" Joshua asked this time. Not to mention woozi was waiting to get answer to this question too. 

"Ohh yeah I am actually here to apply for the music club. Are you still accepting people ?" Vernon asked warily. Woozi's insides lurched with excitement. His crush is joining the same club. How lucky he could be. Though he doesn't even know his name. But he will find out now. So no worries. "Yeah we are. What's your name by the way ?" Jeonghan asked Vernon curiously. 

"I am Hansol Chwe or you can call me Vernon. All my friends call me that. I am a first year Physchology major student" Vernon gave his well rehearsed introduction. He was constantly glancing at Woozi who was trying his best to not make eye contact. Vernon, the name sounded pretty cool to Woozi.

"Okay. But do you know anything about music ?" Joshua asked concernedly. 

He wasn't ready for another stupid person to waste their time. "Uhm do I have to audition or something ?" Vernon asked scratching his head in confusion. He was so excited to do something he loves that he completely forgot about this possibility. Woozi however found it too cute. 

"Ohh no no. We just want to know if you have any knowledge beforehand" Jeonghan answered, a bit amused. Woozi's peculiar expression hadn't gone unnoticed to him. "Oh okay. Yeah I know some stuff. I know how to play drums and I can sing okay. But I like rapping more. And yeah, I try to write songs too but mostly rap" Vernon said in one long breath. 

He was relieved he don't have to audition and it was a good thing he knew quite bit about music. Joshua and Jeonghan's eyes lit up as soon as they heard it. They might get their next member. Woozi was however really intrigued. A handsome boy and too cute, woozi's type, his junior and on top of that sings and writes too. 

Is Universe consipring for them to be together or what ? But that's possible only if Vernon thinks the same too. 

"Great, I guess we found our last member woozi. We just need to know how good is he and we are good to go" Jeonghan said standing up looking at Woozi expectantly. "Uhm yeah, well here is the song we are preparing. See and tell us how it is" woozi said in a small voice, handing the paper to Vernon. 

Vernon felt excitement rushing through his nerves. Joining the same club with your crush who happens to be your senior too, and not to mention extremely cute and hot, did made think Vernon hard. Was universe being really kind to him ? He looked at the paper, skimming through the lyrics written on it. 

He could feel the raw emotions through the words and as soon as the feeling sank in, his gut told him there was something missing. "There is something missing in the song. Sorry I don't mean to offend you but I feel we could add some rap" Vernon said warily. "Ohh yes we feel the same" Jeonghan said excitedly, clapping like a child. 

"Uhm well I think you can join the club. And it would be great if you could write a rap too" Woozi said with a cheerful voice. He was impressed how quick Vernon caught on the situation. And he was really curious to see what Vernon could come up with. 

"Oh yes I would love to. Just give me some time. I will try my best" Vernon said smiling widely as he was ecstatic. He was now really looking forward to spend some time with woozi and listen to his music. "Ahh great then welcome to the club Vernon" Jeonghan congratulated the younger taking his hand forward. 

Chapter Text

Weather was blustery, strong winds making woozi's long hair flow freely. Sky looked mesmerizing and words were whispering in Woozi's mind as he hearkened to the shaky emotions taking place in his heart. After countless futile efforts of tugging his hair behind his ear, he headed towards the classroom sighing. 

He was going for an elective subject he had chosen on a whim, after having thought he had free time to take up another subject which could be useful. Now how are you supposed to beat the shit of yourself ? Cause in no way he had the time to manage all the subjects with the pending assignments which were compounding with every passing day and of course not to mention the songs for the contest.

So he reached the classroom cursing himself when he found a very familiar face which, if he is honest, makes his heart bounce in all the directions. Vernon was sitting in the far corner busy with his phone. And somebody kill him. Vernon looked too fine in that flannel shirt left open, white tee peeking from underneath while his hair were a little messy. 

And oh, there was a seat available beside him. He was still debating whether to take a seat there when Vernon's blinding smile was directed towards him with his hand in the air.

Vernon had almost choked on the air when he saw Woozi standing near the door of the classroom. Wearing an off grey striped shirt while strong wind made his dark long strangles rest graciously, he looked like a kdrama's handsome main lead. 

Woozi gave a small smile in response, walking towards Vernon the next second. "Hey hyung, you are taking this class too ?" Vernon asked with the best poker face he could manage, hoping his red cheeks won't give away the fact that he had signed up for the subject after spotting woozi's name on the list. 

"Oh yeah, thought it might be useful" Woozi answered, flustered at being called hyung. Pretty normal of Vernon to call him that but why did he want to jump in ecstasy ? "Ah yes, I thought the same" Vernon said with a grin which definitely was an attack on Woozi's heart. 

Before Vernon could say anything else, the teacher entered and they had to push their concentration back to studies. But that didn't stop either of them from stealing glances at each other. Even accidentally meeting gazes and then smiling awkwardly as if their caught in action. 

Class ended and Vernon almost panicked cause he still hadn't thought of a way to spend more time with Woozi. "Well, I will get going then" Woozi said standing up, his hand on the back of his head, eyes unfocused as he was damn reluctant to let go of younger's company.

"Uh hyung, wanna get a coffee together ?" Vernon said as that was what came out of his mouth, fearing he might lose the chance. "At the cafe ? But you work there" Woozi asked, his eyebrows furrowed. "There is still some time for my shift. So we can have coffee" Vernon said biting his smile. 

They reached the cafe 10 minutes later, talking about music and movies. Woozi was surprised to know that the younger was such a movie enthusiast that he had recounted all his favourite movies with a lot of details in such short time. And he found out that their taste in music was very complimentary to each other's. 

Vernon ordered for both of them, woozi's order remembering by heart. "How do you know I was going to order that ?" Woozi asked Vernon with a very shocked face, somehow still unable to hide the shine behind the orbs. "Uhm the others told me you order that every time you visit the cafe so...." Vernon answered, a bit embarassed but Woozi's cute chuckle was enough to push that thought away.

"So have you written the rap part ?" Woozi asked Vernon as he was getting impatient now. "Almost. I will give it to you in 2-3 days max" Vernon answered as their coffee arrived. For some time, they sat in silence, sipping their coffee. Not an awkward one, but a calming one which brought a lot of ease. 

"What do you do in your free time hyung ?" Vernon broke the silence and woozi was grateful cause his mind was tired of chasing the ideas. "Mostly I work on music. Writing whatever comes to my mind or recording the tunes that keep playing in my head. What about you ?" 

"I either listen to music or watch movies. I write occasionally but I haven't produces music ever" Vernon answered as a thought crossed his mind. "Oh so you wanna try it ? I can help you" Woozi asked with a glint in his eyes. "Yeah sure. I would love to hyung" Vernon replied with a grin which made Woozi feel all marshmallows and soft inside. 

"Okay, we can work in the studio. Tell me when are you free and we can meet up" Woozi said as he felt proud of himself. How smoothly he arranged a date with Vernon. Well not exactly a date but it's gonna be just two of them. Music and Vernon, what else does he need it to be a romantic date ? 

From there the conversation was pretty swift and comfortable. Vernon found it so fascinating, listening to woozi talk about songs and different artists, and the vast knowledge he had about many instruments. Their prior meetings had left Vernon with the impression that woozi wasn't the talkative one, but if given the right topic, woozi could definitely have a long interesting conversation. 

He was really pleased about the fact that woozi had himself asked to hang out with him. Woozi, on the other hand, was really impressed with how patiently Vernon listened to him. He knew when to respond, interrupting at just the right moments. They had their coffee and bade farewell, promising to arrange their schedules to meet soon, for their studio date of course. 

NEXT WEEK : 

Woozi was sitting in the college cafeteria sipping his Iced Americano with 6 other people who were supposedly his friends but the way they got on his nerves all the time, he highly doubted that. 

He was sitting between Hoshi and Joshua, dk on Joshua's left side. While Jeonghan sat in front of them with Wonwoo and Mingyu. "Can you two stop being gross all the time ?" Hoshi said giving Mingyu and Wonwoo an expression which clearly meant he was irritated. 

"It's not gross you delusional human being who thinks of himself as a tiger" Mingyu hissed at Hoshi kissing Wonwoo's knuckles. "Yaah I am better than you at least, always clinging to your boyfriend you brat" hoshi half shouted. 

"I think it's high time you find someone for yourself too hoshi-ah" Joshua said winking at the other as he proceeded to hold his boyfriend's hand. "Ugh shua hyung you too ? And dk please don't look at him like that" Hoshi said side eying dk who was unsurprisingly very enamored at his boyfriend's touch. 

"You four should get a room, sorry two rooms. I am gonna puke now" Jeonghan said sticking his tongue out which made everyone laugh. "By the way how are your songs coming along jihoon-ah ?" Wonwoo asked as woozi who was now busy with his phone. He looked up to find all of them looking at him. 

"Okay I guess. We still have to complete the title song and there are a couple of songs we have to work on too. And then we have to practice them too. I am so busy with all this and then studies add another burden" woozi vented out in a breath. He was trying to manage everything but failing miserably. 

His friends did help but there was a lot on his plateat the moment. "Woah woah calm down. You sound stressed hyung" Mingyu said finally leaving Wonwoo's hand alone. "Take it easy Woozi. We will complete the songs soon. And we got our new member too" Joshua said trying to calm Woozi. 

"Ohh yes, who is he ? I haven't met him yet" Hoshi asked looking at nobody in particular. "Me too hyung" Dk chimed in. 

"Hey hyung" a thrilled voice reached their ears interrupting theri discussion. They craned their necks to see who it was. Boo Seungkwan, the social butterfly of their group who knew half the campus was walking having a big smile on his face, along a guy whom some of them recognized instantly. "Hey Vernon !" Joshua greeted the younger with a warm smile. 

"Oh hey Vernon" Jeonghan squealed as Vernon responded with a sweet smile. He looked around to find Woozi looking at him. He couldn't stop the smile creeping on his lips. "Guys this is Vernon, my new friend and our new band mmember" Seungkwan introduced his new friend who stood there bit awkwardly. 

"Uh hii, nice to meet you all" Vernon said a bit fumbling, his senses tensing at meeting new people and so many at once. "Hey Vernon, I am tiger" Hoshi squeaked as everybody glared at him. "Stop being ridiculous all the time. His name is Soonyoung and I am Wonwoo" Wonwoo said waving at Vernon. 

Vernon waved back as he and Seungkwan took their seats beside Hoshi. "And I am his boyfriend, Mingyu" Mingyu grinned at Vernon, flinging his arm around his boyfriend's shoulder. "Nobody is taking him away you freak" Seungkwan nagged, their usual banter amusing Vernon. 

"And I am Seokmin. You can call me dk. Welcome to the band Vernon" Dk shook Vernon's hand energetically, flashing his brightest smile at Vernon. Vernon grinned back as he could actually feel Dk bouncing, his infectious energy making Vernon smile. "Uhm by the way hyung, I have written it. See if it's okay" Vernon said looking at Woozi with expectant eyes, giving a paper to him.

"Oh you did it" Jeonghan looked at Vernon, having an impressed expression. "Ahh so you are the rapper, the talk of the town ?" Hoshi teased Vernon as Woozi was busy reading what Vernon had presented with. "Am I that popular already ?" Vernon asked making all of them laugh fondly. 

They goofed around while Vernon was constantly checking Woozi's expressions, trying to read between the lines. After some moments, woozi looked up in Vernon's direction. "How is it ?" Vernon asked nervously, fearing it might not have been upto their standard. 

"It's really good" woozi said with a bit shocked expression. Woozi was impressed with Vernon's writing style. It was melodic yet a bit rough having Vernon's touch. He wasn't expecting much but Vernon definitely was upto his standard. "I think it's amazing" Jeonghan said giving Vernon a thumbs up. 

"Oh thank God, I thought you guys might not like it" Vernon said heaving a deep sigh. "I think we should try singing it once. If it fits which I suppose it would, then we are good to go" Woozi said thoughtfully. Vernon gave a wide smile in response to Woozi's feedback, his smile reaching his eyes. 

Woozi knew he had a feeling for Vernon different from others. But why the hell was it as poetic as the songs he wrote ? 

NEXT DAY : 

Vernon was walking fast towards the music room after having finished his classes. He thought he was late when he entered. But he found Woozi standing there alone by the window side as his hands were on his waist, humming to himself as he was staring out at the sight. 

He didn't know what was so interesting outside but the sight in front of his eyes was surely a captivating one. Woozi was wearing a black jacket with blue pants, sky hued with pink and purple in the background, while Woozi's hair covered most of his side profile. 

For a moment, Vernon didn't realize he was holding his breath as if woozi would disappear if he let go of the sensation stirring his heart. 

He walked up to him as woozi turned around to greet him with a smile. He really should get accustomed to this smile, he thought to himself as his heart started racing fast. "Nobody is here yet ?" He asked standing beside woozi, now following the older's gaze. 

"They are late, as usual" Woozi said still looking outside. "Hyung, are you free on the weekend ?" Vernon asked Woozi, putting his plan to action. 

Chapter Text

"Hm weekend ? You wanna come to the studio ?" Woozi asked now looking at Vernon. "Uh I do but there is a new movie released. You want to watch it together hyung ?" Vernon asked the older nervously. He was sure Woozi won't get upset or even refuse. But he might be hurrying. He couldn't bring himself to look Woozi in the eyes, fearing the answer. 

"Movie ? Just the two of us ?" Woozi asked realizing what he said later. Now that he put it like this, was Vernon asking him for a date ? "Yeah" Vernon answered sheepishly, his ears getting red as Woozi was nearing the actual interpretation. "I uh, uh Vernon you realize what it kind of means right ? I mean it's okay even if you don't but---" Woozi was trying to put it nicely. 

"I do. I am asking you out on a date hyung" Vernon cut him off midway. Woozi's mind short circuit for a moment. Is Vernon always that blunt ? "I....you....." words were not coming out of his mouth though he didn't know what he exactly wanted to say. "You are so cute hyung" Vernon chuckled as he saw Woozi's face getting pink. 

"Yaaah" Woozi turned around not able to face the younger. A wide smile was making its place on his lips as he felt too shy to say anything. "Shall I take that as yes ?" Vernon asked grinning widely as he started jumping inside. An innocent laugh escaped Woozi's mouth in fondness something Vernon was quick to notice. 

"Great then I will get the tickets soon" Vernon said excitedly as his eyes shone brightly. It felt like an achievement. Feeling all gooey and mushy in his heart, he chuckled a bit loudly. "What are you guys laughing about ?" Jeonghan asked as he entered, seeing Woozi smiling furiously. Woozi's mind went in alert, his eyes darting gazes at Vernon. 

"Nothing, tell us why you guys are late ?" Woozi asked as Joshua entered a moment later. "Sorry Jihoonah but why do you two look so happy ?" Joshua asked looking at them smugly. "I know right, something is wrong" Jeonghan chimed in, standing by Joshua's side, both of them eyeing the other two. "We were talking about the song. Shall we practice now ?" Vernon answered instead as to divert the topic. 

Thankfully Dk and Seungkwan busted in the exact moment and they didn't need to answer. They started practicing the song, Woozi explaining them about the same. They worked on it for the next few days, getting the notes and pronunciations right. Woozi was content with how the song was coming along. 

Everybody was working hard. He had heard all of them singing before except Vernon so he was kind of anticipating it. Vernon started off with his verse, rapping as he always did but a bit nervously. Butterflies were playing around in his stomach cause who would want to make a fool of themselves in front of their crush ? 

However it went good. He did it fine and everybody praised him. Woozi also complimented him which he thought was an achievement. And for the first time he heard Woozi singing. He was awestruck. Woozi sang like a professional singer, his voice reaching the listener's soul. He hit the notes as easily as breathing. Others were good too and they had fun practicing. 

Dk and Seungkwan would usually fool around and even Jeonghan and Joshua were so playful. Woozi would be annoyed most of the time but he too joined them sometimes. 

Woozi was surprised by Vernon's voice. The way he sang softly with his deep breathy voice and his rapping skills were definitely impressive. Vernon was surely a good choice, Woozi thought to himself. Weekend came, rather slowly. Waiting for something keenly does make time pass slower. 

Vernon had got the tickets and was waiting outside the theater for Woozi to come. It was a movie about superheroes, a genre they both enjoyed. Woozi came at time, dressed in a brown jacket with a white tee underneath with dark blue pants. His hair were styled so his features were standing out and Vernon was biting his cheek, realizing Woozi had put in effort for their date and he looked stunning (not that he doesn't look good on other days). 

Woozi reached the theater, having left home early. He had tried to dress little different but wasn't sure if it worked. He looked around to find Vernon standing a bit far, engrossed in his phone. He walked towards him to find Vernon looking absolutely handsome in a sky blue hoodie with black pants. His hair were parted side ways, some strangles falling beautifully on his temple. 

Their eyes met and a wide smile bubbled up on Vernon's face which Woozi returned as much. "You look handsome hyung" Vernon said beaming making the older shy. "Uh you too" Woozi said trying to hide his face. They entered the hall with popcorn and soft drinks and the movie started soon. The plot was interesting and Woozi seemed to be liking it. Vernon was as much entertained by the movie but he found Woozi's face more captivating. 

Though not much but whenever the reactions surfaced Woozi's face, it was a sight to behold for Vernon. One thing that twitched his stomach constantly was the surging desire to hold the older's hand. It was just their first date, Vernon kept reminding himself. 

Woozi was liking the movie so far but was hell nervous inside. Firstly, Vernon was staring at him for too long sometimes, which made his heart race unbelievably. Second, he wanted to look at the younger too but had no idea how to do it. Either being subtle about it or stare shamelessly, Vernon had decided on the second one. And thirdly, he wanted to do much more than that which, given it was their first official date, wasn't a good idea. 

For the few times he got to have a better look at the younger's face, he took in every feature. The way lights reflected on Vernon's face in the dark, illuminating those striking features was enough to throw his senses away. Somehow they completed the movie in between the hesitant glances (on Woozi's side mostly) and got out. 

Both of them wanted to spend more time together, by making up any excuse if needed. "Uhm, if you are free we can go to the studio, right now to try out" Woozi blabbering out before he had thought it through. Sure he had time. And even if he didn't, he could make it. And he could definitely help Vernon try producing music. And about spending every second possible with Vernon, he was as clear as the fact that Earth is not flat. 

But being in a space with Vernon, as closed as his studio while he has the chance to listen to Vernon singing or even talking for that matter, his heart can take only as much. "I would love to hyung. Let's go" Vernon answered not giving Woozi any chance to take it back. And the way Vernon had almost jumped in excitement at the offer, he had no heart to refuse anyway.  

40 minutes later, they were in Woozi's studio, standing in front of the monitor. "Take a seat" Woozi said taking a seat himself. "Okay, we are going to start with very basics" Woozi started off with telling Vernon whatever he thought was basic and important. Vernon on the other hand found it too amusing. First off, Woozi teaching him about how you start with producing tunes and rhythms and then decide on the way you want verses to play out, was way fascinating than he thought. 

Secondly, those eyes were way too distracting to focus on what he was saying. And thirdly, when Vernon did manage to somehow focus on what was being sad, his eyes stuck on the lips. Those thin pink lips against that glow fair skin were too tempting and Vernon was fighting a battle not to crash his lips on them. "So basically that's it. So shall we start ?" Woozi asked a bit unsure as he saw Vernon spacing out. 

He was almost sure Vernon's gaze was fixed at his face but he couldn't call that out pertaining to the fact that he was the one speaking. He didn't have the guts anyway, if anything a strawberry red was spread there. "Yeah, sure" Vernon said with a swift smile. They started with some samples Woozi had already. It was interesting to see Vernon in his studio. 

His studio, has been his place. A space where he spends a considerable amount of time, working on something he loves and it has belonged to him, since forever. But now seeing Vernon sitting in front of him, wearing his headphones while his brown eyes were focused on the screen, it was a sight he had never imagined. 

But some realities are way beautiful compared to our feeble imaginations. So he took the chance to stare at the younger. Though he appreciated every feature, Vernon's lips, for a reason he doesn't know, stuck to his mind. If he were to be honest, which he embarrassingly would be, he would love to touch those with his own. 

They tried experimenting with some samples and Woozi was again astounded to hear Vernon's ideas. Vernon on the other hand, was having a fun time. Producing music was definitely compelling. And doing it with Woozi who is really good at it already, is a win. They talked around how they liked some tunes while what could be changed to others when Woozi asked if Vernon could give feedback on a song he was working on. 

Vernon was more than happy to do so. They listened to the music and Woozi even shared the lyrics or mostly scribbles he had written so far. Nobody had the privilege to listen to his incomplete songs, let alone giving any feedback. But something about Vernon had Woozi in confidence that it would be a good decision. 

Vernon listened to the song with the attention Woozi found too attractive. Woozi was trying to read the younger's face but he couldn't really decipher much from Vernon's almost straight expression. "Hyung it's really good. The rhythm is soothing. The drops are so impressive and the way some verses were so soft, perfectly mixed with faint instruments in the background, it touched my heart" Vernon said as he put the headphones down. 

He had no doubt about Woozi's abilities as a thriving musician, but no way in the world he knew he was that good. Song was absolutely a work of art, emotions seeping in listener's soul and even the unfinished lyrics sounded so raw and imapctful. "Really ? I am glad you liked it" Woozi said smiling shyly. "I love it hyung. Complete it soon if you can. I will be waiting" Vernon replied with a grin which tugged strings at Woozi's heart. 

"Oh okay. By the way I think your voice will suit this song really good" Woozi said thoughtfully. He imagined Vernon singing it and it just felt right. "You think so ? Can I try then ?" Vernon asked, his eyes big and beaming. "Yeah sure if you want to" Woozi said half whispering, anticipating to hear. Vernon started right away and Woozi will go as far as saying that he hadn't heard anything better. 

Maybe it was his feelings for the younger speaking but the way Vernon sang with his light voice starting the song, words sounding as sincere as Woozi had written them with breathy deep voice chiming in later, he was sure this song was made for Vernon. Song was about a longing love for someone, not in a way that makes you feel sad but a way that makes you smile at the thought. 

Instead of listening to Vernon, his thoughts traveled to something more deep. Vernon's voice in the background while his eyes were fixed at Vernon's face, Woozi felt something warm in his chest. A feeling he had translated onto paper many times but never knew he could feel too. As poetic and cheesy it sounded, he could feel time slowing down as he tried counting younger's long eyelashes. 

All the songs he had tried making while thinking of a person you admire to the point where you can just live on with the mere thought, never sounded as real as he felt at the moment. His mind went fuzzy and giddy, his heart all gooey and he couldn't think a word to describe all the emotions he was feeling, all the romantic words long forgotten. 

"Hyung, hyung was it good ?" A voice snapped him back to the reality, Vernon looking at him a bit confused. "Yeah, it was good. Yeah really good" he said a little stuttering. He could swore he saw rosy red spreading on Vernon's cheeks. They talked a bit before they realized it had been very late. Vernon bid him goodbye before hinting at another date, maybe at a aquarium. 

Vernon was back in his room, lying on the bed staring at the ceiling while his thoughts wandered back to the person he thought about every second. A wide smile was on his face all the way back and his cheeks were now starting to ache. But how was he supposed to keep those happy bubbles in when his date went way too good then he had expected ? 

The movie was good and Woozi enjoyed it. Trying out music in the older's studio was the best thing that happened today. Listening to what Woozi was working on felt like knowing a side of him only Vernon saw. And the music, the words, everything was so dreamy. The feeling sat in his chest, soft like clouds and cotton, all marshmallows everywhere. 

Chapter Text

A little over a month was left for the competition and they were working hard, aa much as their schedules allowed. Vernon had classes and his part time job while Woozi and others were busy with their studies and assignments. 

Since their first date, Vernon and Woozi had been constantly trying to work on producing music on their own and Woozi was glad he had someone to help. Their practices were going good and they were definitely getting better. Most of the tracks were done but 1 or 2 songs were yet to be completed. 

Nonetheless, the spirit was still the same. 

Woozi was in his studio accompanied by Vernon, who had definitely ascended to something more than a mere crush. In last 1 month, they had been on a couple of dates, each one better than the last. Woozi was getting more comfortable around the younger and even started to flirt, which if we are talking about Woozi, is a big feet to achieve. 

Vernon on the other hand was getting impatient day by day. He was happy with what he had with Woozi. Yet he was sure they both wanted more. But of course good things take time. And he wanted everything to be perfect. He needed to make sure he was sincere when doing it. And now felt the right time. 

He hadn't prepared anything special. Not because he didn't want to put efforts but for he knew Woozi preferred it simple and quiet. And so did he. Though he had definitely brought some things with him. You can't walk up and just propose right ? Even if it's simple, it's got to be special, just like Woozi is special. 

Woozi was engrossed with his work when Vernon slipped to the side. He took out what he had brought and came back, standing behind woozi quietly. Woozi's attention was still on the monitor. Vernon tapped the older but his touch went unnoticed. He was pleased with the situation, though a tinge of annoyance for being ignored rested at the back of his mind. 

Woozi over past time had gotten used to his touch. Normal handshakes or side hugs were now welcome. And Vernon couldn't be happier. But now was the time to level up things. "Hyung" he called out the older in a soft voice. Again, his call went in vain. He found it absolutely amusing and adorable how Woozi got so lost in his music.

More than anything, it was attractive like nothing else. "Hyungg" he whined a bit, this time louder. Finally Woozi came out of the entrance and turned around. "Yeah ?" He asked Vernon with a blank face. 

➰️

Woozi heard Vernon's voice breaking his thoughts. He turned around to face the younger. "Yeah ?" He asked searching Vernon's face. Suddenly Vernon sat on one knee, facing him with a teasing smile. And then it clicked. 

Vernon was proposing him. OH MY GOD !!! His eyes became wide at the realization, words stuck in the throat. Vernon chuckled looking at him, bringing his hand forward which was behind his back all the time. A bouquet of vibrant red roses, their rousing scent filling his nose. 

"Hyung, we have been going out for a month now. I know it hasn't been long but the time we have spent together is enough for me to realize that I really like you. When I saw you for the first time, I was mesmerized. I wanted to know you better" 

"I had no idea I would meet you there, at the music club. It seemed like stars were aligning, just to make us meet. And I can't tell you how joyed I was to know that we will work together"

"I heard you singing and that was the best music to my ears. I didn't know when did spending time in your studio became my favourite. Working on songs together, singing under your guidance, and brainstorming ideas about the contest, I always had the best time with you"

"As I came to know more about you, I realized how charming your passion for music is. The way you get lost in reverie, sitting in front of the monitor, I find my world revolving around you. When we talk about movies, or I should say when you listen to my ramblings, I find myself grounded in your presence"

"And your music makes me feel alive. It pulls my heart's strings, a rhythm plays on my smile whenever I listen to it. Clouds drift away, time elapses from dawn to dusk and my thoughts still belong to you. When I hold your hand, the touch brings back the essence of what I feel for you, it's remnants still lingering in the air" 

"How many times I have held back myself from kissing you, only I know but I am willing to wait for as long as you want. But my feelings need to make their way to your heart. Hyung, I really like you. Will you be my boyfriend ?" 

Woozi was dumbfounded to hear the proposal. Vernon had taken the task seriously, each word sounding sincere yet he knew well that the younger's speech was impromptu. He realized it now that he was smiling idiotically, his lips spread wide with his puffed cheeks being rosy red, and his small eyes making half moon. 

Vernon was looking at him expectantly, a content smile on his face making him look pretty.

"Ah well yes" Woozi responded some moments later, his mind processing all of it gradually. Vernon's smile turned into a wide green as Woozi took the roses in his hand. Vernon got up finally, the proud smile still not leaving his face. "Thank you hyung" he said as woozi stood up, to hug his boyfriend.

This sounded so strange in woozi's mind and he won't admit it felt good too. Vernon hugged him gently, and woozi shyly circled his arms around the younger. "I was about to do the same very soon" woozi said as they broke the hug, his eyes unfocused as he looked anywhere but at Vernon. 

"Really ?" Vernon asked him, his eyes glittering as he had won a lottery. Woozi turned around to look for something while Vernon just stood there. He was over the moon when Woozi accepted his proposal. "What are you looking for hyung ?" He asked the older, now his boyfriend. 

It sounded so adorable in his head making him smile sweetly. "Here, read this" woozi said handing him a paper. Vernon curiously looked at the paper. It was a normal plain paper but something was written on it. The words seemed familiar and he realized it was Woozi's writing. 

Vernon starred reading and by the look of it, it was a song. A romantic song to be precise, lyrics as if came straight out of a lover's heart. It was deep, writing style was different, not how usually romance songs are. But it scented of pure love. 

After finishing he looked up, ready to praise his boyfriend but he was puzzled about the strange timing. "Hyung this is really good but why now ?" He asked as Woozi's head hung low. He looked really shy and Vernon's mind was filled with questions. 

"Uhm this is a song I wrote for you. I was going to propose you with this" woozi said in a low voice as if he was admitting his crime. Vernon burst out laughing fondly at the older's cuteness before diving in for a big hug. 

"Hyung, you are so cute. I love this. Though I have always found your music special, this is going to be my treasure. Thank you for writing this for me" Vernon said barely keeping his excitement in. He was ecstatic that woozi wrote something for him, just for him. He felt special and the song was so romantic. 

Woozi finally looked up to meet the younger's eyes, a wide smile not leaving his place. "I am happy you liked it. I couldn't think of any other way" woozi said as they both took their seats back. "This is the best was hyung. Nothing could be better than this. And you agreed to be my boyfriend, what else do I need ?" Vernon said smirking at Woozi which left the older in a blushing mess. 

3 days before the contest : 

Vernon knocked on the door but no response came as expected. He tried again but of course, there was no sound at the other end. He took out the key and the door clicked. He made his way into the studio to find his boyfriend absorbed in his work. 

He walked to the sofa on the side and sat comfortably. He wasn't even trying to be subtle about what he was doing, taking out the food. Becuase his boyfriend had his headphones on. Having all the dishes taken out, he went ahead to call for the older. 

Woozi was swaying his head lightly to the music when he felt something on his shoulder. He turned around to find his boyfriend, he was still getting used to it. Vernon was standing there, looking little serious. Woozi was amazed how he didn't even notice Vernon coming. 

"Hey" he said sheepishly, trying to hide the same fact. Vernon said nothing and just pulled him up holding his hand. "Woah what happened ?" Woozi asked him shocked. "Hyung you have been here since yesterday. You didn't sleep whole night and have you even had proper food ?" 

Vernon asked him angrily, his hand pointing at the empty cola cans and a cup noodles container. Woozi smiled innocently, knowing how he was dying of hunger yet he chose to ignore it and survive on cup noodles and coke. 

"Don't give me that smile. Come and have proper food" Vernon pulled him strongly to the side. Woozi saw all the dishes Vernon had brought along, all being his favourite. "Sit" Vernon ordered him sternly, his big eyes too determined to oppose. 

Woozi sat down on the sofa silently. Vernon handed him the chopsticks and they digged in right away. Food was delicious, maybe little too much but that might be because of the reason he was almost starving now. They ate in silence. Woozi was too hungry to take breaks in between his big bites and Vernon seemed unaffected by it. 

They were done quickly, Vernon having matched his pace. "Feeling better ?" Vernon asked him with a face which meant he wasn't that upset with woozi. "Yeah, thank you so much for the food" Woozi said smiling, hoping the smile would be returned. 

"You can go back to work. I am going back to the dorm" Vernon said getting up, putting the garbage in the polythene bags. "You aren't staying ?" Woozi asked shocked. He didn't expect the younger to be like that. 

"No, you have work. I don't want to disturb you" Vernon said plainly, his face stoic as ever. Woozi's heart broke as he realized. He hadn't got the chance to talk to the younger even though Vernon tried contacting a lot of times. 

"Vernon I am sorry. I should have messaged you earlier. I didn't avoid you. I just got lost in work. I am really sorry" woozi tried putting his emotions into words. He felt bad. He didn't do it on purpose but it was still wrong of him to do so. 

Suddenly Vernon burst into a fit of laughter, his voice echoing in the whole studio. Woozi was confused as hell. "I am sorry hyung. You seemed so worried" Vernon managed to say in between the snorts. And then it dawned on him. Vernon was messing with him. 

He half laughed to himself at the younger's silliness. Vernon was still not over the fun but Woozi found the whole situation a lot more adorable than he would like to admit. They sat on the chairs in front of the monitor, once Vernon was back to the world. 

"Hyung I have got something for you" Vernon said as they finished listening to some good music. "Yeah what is it ?" Woozi asked as Vernon walked to the sofa, bringing some bags back with him. Woozi curiously eyed the bag. Vernon took out a box which seemed to aiding Vernon as it didn't give any idea what it was hiding. 

"Open it" Vernon said handing the box to Woozi. Woozi wasted no time opening it. As soon as he saw it, he was shocked. "You got me a microphone ?" Woozi asked utterly surprised. He held the microphone in his hand, it was a beautiful black one, not the best one out there but it was good enough for him. 

He looked at Vernon who was grinning widely now. "Do you like it ?" Vernon asked him with big puppy eyes. 

"I love it. Thank you so much" Woozi said touching the microphone again and again, admiring it in his mind. "There is something on its bottom" Vernon said quietly. Woozi raised his eyebrow in question and progressed to check as Vernon wasn't in the mood to answer. 

He looked closely and he found his name written there in silver colour. It was small and almost unnoticeable. "It's my name" Woozi whispered, too unable to show his happiness any other way. Vernon flashed a full smile with rosy cheeks in response. 

"I have got for all of us. They all have got our names. It's going to be our first stage performance so it's really special. I thought I should make it memorable enough so I got these. These would always remind us of our first performance and why we all started our journey as a group" 

Vernon said holding his microphone in hand. Woozi was in awe of his boyfriend. How sweet he could be. He took care of him and his food. He got new microphones for all the group members. 

"Thank you is not enough. And others would be so happy to see these" Woozi said as he feared a simple thank you wouldnt suffice. "You don't need to thank me hyung. I got these because I wanted to" Vernon said smiling softly. 

"How did I get so lucky to have such a cute boyfriend ?" Woozi asked the younger playfully. "I know right. How did you get so lucky hyung ?" Vernon played along, laughing to himself. 

Now that Woozi paid attention, Vernon looked really pretty. His fair skin and long eyelashes, his thin pink lips forming a beautiful smile while his big eyes shone in the dim light. His hand found Vernon's on its own. 

They didn't say anything, just kept looking at each other. Surroundings started fading away slowly, both of them melting in each other's presence. Seconds passed away and they were still lost in the moment and if you ask they don't know who initiated it. 

But they were kissing, sucking each other's lips not too gently. Silence sounded calm music to their ears, everything else leaving them behind. Their hands found their way to the necks and their heads angled themselves in a comfortable position. 

Tasting the food they had earlier, they relished the love, the cloudy peace hazing their minds. A whimpery moan escaped Woozi's mouth which Vernon gulped down contently. Their lungs felt out of air but their hearts were overflowing with warmth. 

They broke apart after ages or the short period of time cause you still need air to breather, though they were enough drunk with desire. And none of them would admit how much they enjoyed it. You can't get Woozi to admit that he liked the dominant Vernon. 

And Vernon wouldn't dream of saying out loud that he had already imagined things he would like to do after kissing. Of course you can't expect Woozi to say he was turned on by how Vernon pulled him closer, Vernon's hand almost choking him in the process. 

But they would agree that they love being in this relationship. Woozi would happily write songs for his boyfriend and Vernon wouldn't think twice before taking care of the older forever.