Archive of Our Own

Jisung never claimed to be the better person, or the nicest, not event the friendliest, but he is loyal.

He expects his partners to be as well.

He tilts his head and takes in the sight of Chan laughing at something the cashier says. Takes in the slight touch of fingers as Chan hands over the cash to the cashier.

He takes in the powdery blue collared shirt, white tank top underneath – it shows off Chan’s lithe yet fit form. His jeans hugging his form down to his white tennis shoes that he seems to love to wear. He brings his gaze back and meets Chan’s eyes, the latter had turned his head towards him.

Jisung stares, seeing Chan’s cheeks becoming flush. He takes in the pink his ears are slowly turning and his eyes fall to the line of his jaw, slowly drinking the pale skin until he finds the small red bite just beneath his earlobe.

Chan nuzzles the underside of his jaw, a soft giggle leaves his lips – Jisung feels his teeth have the need to bite and he mouths at Chan’s earlobe. He let’s his lips trace below the ear and gently lets his teeth tease the skin there.

Chan gasps and clenches his hand to Jisung’s shirt, tilting his head to give him more room. Jisung hums as he has the urge to mark. He stops himself from hurting him and continues to lightly press his teeth together, savoring the taste of Chan’s skin.

Chan sets the drinks down between them and begins to set up. He opens the straw for Jisung and presents him the drink. He looks absolutely delighted.

“Thank you, Chan-ssi” Jisung says, reaching to grab the drink, but instead, his hand makes a detour and reaches over to touch Chan’s jaw. Chan stares at him almost questionably, but Jisung presses his thumb to the corner of his mouth and smiles. Chan’s ears flush again and his hand holding the drink shakes a little.

Jisung pulls back and takes the drink, in one hand, but doesn’t hesitate to reach out and grasp Chan’s hand.

Thinking he’s teased him enough, Jisung takes a sip of his iced Americano.

“Um” Chan starts, pauses and clears his throat before he huffs when he notices the smirk Jisung knows is showing on his lips.

Chan bites his lip and decides to take a sip of his own drink. An iced strawberry matcha latte. He sees Chan’s eyes take in a small sparkle as he tastes it. Chan always likes to try something new.

As if composing himself, Chan looks at him again.

“Graduation will be in a month, so I get to have a plus one to the celebratory after party” Chan says, his fingers curling tighter around Jisung’s fingers.

Jisung waits patiently for him, his lips twitching when Chan huffs, a pout on his lips. Jisung can’t help but stare at his mouth – his plush lips always fascinate him. Early mornings with Chan has granted him the sight of his lips being soft, pink, and puffy. Sinful.

“Jisung-ah” Chan starts, a soft sigh past his lips, “I wanted you to be there” he says.

“Wanted? Not anymore?” Jisung asks, biting the inside of his lip to hold back his smile. Chan puffs his cheeks and attempts to pull his hand away – Jisung holds on, as Chan’s bottom lip sticks out more.

“I want to celebrate with you” Chan says, “I hope you can attend, but only if you’re not busy of course” Chan says. He smiles a little less confident now. As if he just realized that Jisung might not attend.

Silly of him of course.

“Chan-ssi,” Jisung starts, thumb gently brushing over Chan’s knuckles, “Of course I’ll be there, if you’ll have me” Jisung says, lightly tugging Chan’s hand up to his lips. He keeps eye contact with Chan as he presses his lips to them. Chan breathes in quietly as his eyelashes flutter.

Jisung loves every expression of his.

Chan stirred under the comforter, a small groan followed by a sigh as he wakes up. Jisung darts his eyes on the reflection in the mirror, catching sight of Chan’s curly messy hair.

He pauses on fixing his tie and turns to walk towards the bed. Chan pushes himself to sit against the headboard, rubbing the sleep off of his eyes. Jisung sits on the edge of the bed, leaning forward to cage Chan between his arms.

“Good morning, Chan-ssi” he murmurs, pressing his nose to Chan’s warm cheek.

Chan hums as he blinks to clear his vision from sleep. Jisung feels more than see his lips forming the smile.

“G’morning, Jisung-ah” Chan murmurs, a sigh following as he reaches to wrap his arms around Jisung’s shoulders.

“Hmm, do you have class today?” Jisung asks, raising his head to look at Chan. The latter hums in thought before shaking his head.

“Not today, we have a free day today” Chan says, his eyes taking in Jisung’s appearance. He sees the unmade tie and smiles.

Jisung makes an inquiring noise when Chan pulls his arms away, but then stays still when Chan begins fixing his tie.

“I’m just saying, Channie, I’m probably a better dancer than he’ll be, you know, as a performing arts major, specifically dance, I might add” Minho grumbles, an accusing stare at Jisung.

Jisung thinks that perhaps Minho keeps a tracker on Chan – it’s something he would probably turn on Chan’s phone and the latter won’t be the wiser. Minho had walked into the Café ten minutes into their date.

“That’s beside the point” Jisung grumbles, his hand pressing to Chan’s abdomen under his shirt. His want to touch Chan became even more of a need.

 Feeling his warm and soft skin.

“Hey, hey, grown ups are talking” Minho says. Chan frowns momentarily, but sighs.

“Minho-ya” Chan says, making Minho huff and cross his arms. Jisung can’t help but feel a satisfaction at that. While Chan tends to be soft, sweet and everything precious, Jisung’s come to learn that he can naturally take on that firm hand. It actually makes Chan even more attractive.

“Weren’t you going to meet up with Changbin?” Chan asks, a curious tilt of the head. Jisung raises a brow. Those two are troublesome on their own, he can’t imagine them together, though it seems they spend more time together that he thought.

Minho pouts even more, “he said he was going to meet his friend at the gym.” He says in response. Jisung can see the annoyance, can almost feel it radiate from him.

“Oh,” Chan says quietly. His abdomen flexes and then he moves his stare from Minho to Jisung. He has an almost worried expression, before he attempts to smile.

“He is weird though” Minho says, uncrossing his arms and slumping more on the chair. Jisung just wants him to finish his drink and take off. Because while he doesn’t mind Minho crashing into their Café dates, he would like to enjoy his coffee and moments with Chan. That doesn’t seem like it will happen though.

“Hmm, Chan-ssi, did you want me to get you that other drink?” Jisung asks, taking in the half empty cup. While Chan liked trying new things, he also stopped eating, drinking said things when he didn’t particularly like it. Chan smiled apologetically.

 Jisung squeezed his waist in return and picked up the cup as he stood to discard it.

He pauses and then looks at Minho.

“Did you want something else to drink or a snack?” Jisung asks. One because he’s not rude. Two because it’s Minho and three, because Chan would feel bad and go up there himself.

Minho seemed surprised, glancing at Chan, the latter seemingly thinking nothing of it as he opens up his messages. But really, it’s not a big deal. He was delighted to know Chan held jealous tendencies from the last time this topic came up.

“the pudding, please” Minho says, Jisung nods and walks to the counter.

Chan seems satisfied as he brushed an invisible lint over Jisung’s shoulder. Jisung wishes to spend the morning with him but he has to go to the office. Nowadays he often leaves the office earlier than needed when Chan stayed over.

“Will you be at home today?” Jisung asks, reaching up to ruffle Chan’s messy hair. Chan huffs as usual. Jisung loves Chan’s natural curly hair, though Chan doesn’t usually wear it like that often, Jisung loves every moment he is a witness to its presence.

Home.

Jisung doesn’t specify. Jisung hopes Chan will decide to move in with him soon. He doesn’t push the subject, it’s a vague topic every once in a while.

However, Chan’s been spending more nights over and Jisung had gladly bought a new drawer chest for Chan as well as letting Chan know that he could use the empty side of his walk in closet. The bathroom has Chan’s essentials and a set of his routine creams and lotions.

“Changbin said he was going to meet Minho-ya today, so I was going to clean the apartment” Chan says, thoughtful. Jisung lightly shakes his head and leans to press a kiss on his lips.

“Did you want to meet at the restaurant down the street for dinner?” Jisung asks as he pulls away and sees Chan holding back a yawn.

“I’m sorry” Chan says, a sheepish smile on his lips.

Jisung looks to the side and checks the time. Still early. He removes his jacket and places it on the other side of the bed.

“Hmm, let’s lay down for a bit, yeah?” Jisung is already tugging Chan down to settle back on bed. Chan huffs a laugh and shakes his head.

“Your clothes will wrinkle” he says, already wrapping his arms around Jisung, pulling him down to him.

“It’s okay. Just for a bit.” Jisung responds, tugging Chan closer and tucking his head under his chin. Chan sighs and snuggles closer.

“Dinner at home” Chan says softly, as Jisung runs his fingers through his hair with one hand and the other rubs his back as if to lull him back to sleep.

“ –ow about him” Jisung only catches the last part, but he doesn’t have much time right now as he shoves his phone into his pocket. He raises a brow as he presents Minho the pudding and Chan’s latest favorite drink, strawberry hibiscus tea. Chan looks at the drink and then gives Jisung a beaming smile.

“Thank you, Jisung-ah” Chan says as he takes the drink. Jisung hums as he reaches over to cup the back of Chan’s neck and leans down to press his lips to his temple.

“Sorry, Chan-ssi, I need to head back to the office right now” he says softly.

“Oh, okay.” Chan says with a nod, tilting his head to look at him. Jisung clenches his hand that’s on the table before pressing a quick kiss to his lips.

“I’ll message you, yeah?” Jisung waits for the nod before he bids Minho a good day and heads out.

Jisung tries not to stir him, but Chan still wakes up again. Jisung had hoped he could leave him sleeping, Chan had been staying up pretty late to finish his thesis those past 2 weeks.

“You can sleep more, Chan-ssi, I didn’t mean to wake you up” Jisung says, tugging on his jacket in front of the mirror again.  Chan is stubborn, a trait that Jisung finds very interesting for him, and shuffles to push away the covers and sit up on bed.

Jisung sees the long legs, pale smooth skin – Chan has really taken a liking to wearing those oversized shirts that cover down to his thighs. Chan looks at him knowingly and bites his lip before he rises and heads to the bathroom.

Jisung follows him with his eyes and sees Chan pause before he turns his head to look at him with a teasing smile only to close the door.

Jisung huffs and shakes his head, unable to stop the smile on his lips.

Jisung checks the time on his watch, wondering how busy Chan was. He listens to the proposals, the statistics and the discussions in between. It's pretty boring – anything he used to do before Chan appeared into his life seemed mundane, boring, draining.

“Great, let’s go ahead and send the negotiator and have those contracts signed by no later than next Friday” he announces without waiting he gets up and begins walking out. His secretary rushing behind him.

“I will be busy for the rest of the day, any meetings or conference calls can be scheduled for when my schedule becomes available next week.” He says, pulling out his phone as he bypasses his own office.

His secretary nods and as he gets on the elevator, she follows. When the door opens and is about to close, he holds it open.

“Have a good weekend” he says and she seems almost surprised before she bows and wishes him the same.

When Jisung gathers his things from the counter by the door, Chan is making his way there. He looks at him and takes in the shirt sliding off his shoulder.

 Chan tip toes closer and smiles at him, face washed and teeth brushed, he leans to him and hugs him, pressing their mouths together.

“Hmm, I’ll miss you” Chan murmurs between pecks. Jisung curls his arm around him, holding him closer. Chan moans as he slips his tongue inside. Jisung wants nothing more than to stay with him. His arm around Chan’s waist tightens and Chan whimpers when they press tightly together.

Jisung growls and presses Chan against the wall, causing the latter to gasp and shudder when Jisung slips his knee between his legs, closer. He mouths at Chan’s earlobe.

“You’re such a tease today” he grunts as he grabs both of Chan’s thighs and has him wrap them around his waist. Chan whines as Jisung grips his thighs tight, holding his weight against the wall.

“Not a tease” Chan bites his lip to stop the moan, but listening to his sounds is something Jisung loves, so he leans down and licks at his lips, making Chan release his bottom lip. Jisung pushes closer to him and Chan moans with a hiccup.

“Definitely a tease,” he says in return, biting lightly at his collar, but he knows he has to go. So he has to give him something.

“I’m going to ruin you” he promises as he pulls them away from the wall and carries him back to the room.

Jisung sends the message to Chan that he’s on his way. Chan had told him that he would be turning in his report and finish his presentation. Lunch today was a celebration for Chan’s final paperwork finally being turned in. Even though Chan is nervous about it, Jisung can confidently say that Chan is really smart. Very bright.

Chan really has looks, personality and intelligence. Jisung can’t imagine how he’s been single, but it definitely worked out for him because he found him. Chan is his – even though he doesn’t see him as a possession, he feels possessive of him.

He will not let him go – unless Chan decides it. He will listen to him, but he’s confident enough that Chan feels the same as he does.

Jisung raises his head to check on Chan. His thighs quivered around him, his hands holding the plush thigh spilling between his fingers. He sees Chan’s eyes glistened with tears, cheeks aflame and lips red bitten. He sees his hands clenched to the bedsheet.

He leans down and bites at the thigh lightly, making Chan’s muscle tense. He licks at the red skin languidly, making Chan hiccup.

“Sungie” Chan whimpers, making Jisung pause and raise his head once more.

He blinks once, twice before he grins, moving to hover over Chan’s vulnerable body. He reaches to cup Chan’s cheek, dabbing his thumb over the residue of the tears.

He leans down and licks at Chan’s lips, coaxing his mouth open, Chan’s essence on his tongue. Chan obediently allows him in and reaches to grip Jisung’s arm, fingers twitching.

Restraining himself from messing Jisung’s hair.

Jisung feels the rush of warmth through his core.

The restaurant is not too busy, but it is lunch hour and usually this restaurant gets busy during the late hour.

Chan looks around curiously, eyes shiny with wonder as he leans back and forth to see around the restaurant. There’s a giant crystal rain chandelier at the center which keeps the restaurant with enough light along with dimmer lights around the area for customers.

Jisung asks for a table in the back, by the floor to ceiling window. The sun streams through and it makes Chan’s brown eyes glow. Accentuating his long lashes and shadowing the plush lips, skin smooth and soft.

Jisung loves everything about him.

Chan blinks twice as Jisung pulls away momentarily, panting and sucking in deep breaths. Jisung stares at him, fingers tracing his jaw. He feels him fidgeting beneath him. He is regretting having to leave.

Jisung cups his jaw once more and leans down to kiss him again, delving into his mouth once more. Chan moans and whimpers when Jisung bites his bottom lip before licking it soothingly.

When he feels out of breath, Jisung pulls away with a gasp and Chan shudders beneath him.

“Channie, move in with me” Jisung says, causing Chan to blink, tilting his head and furrowing his brow. Jisung smiles gently, realizing what he said.

“Think about it, yeah?” Jisung murmurs as he nuzzles Chan’s jaw. Chan nods briefly, quietly.

Jisung helps Chan clean up carefully. He knows he’ll be late, but at this point, he wants to stay with Chan. However, he knows that with what he asked, Chan will probably need time to process.

As he’s fixing his tie once again, combing his hair and wearing his jacket once more, he sees Chan through the mirror’s reflection. He looks thoughtful and bumps into the edge of the door. Jisung doesn’t say anything, but keeps following his form until Chan seems to take a deep breath and then walks to him.

He feels his hands slide around his waist, pressing  his cheek against his back.

“Let me think about it more, Jisung-ah” he says quietly. Jisung hums, resting his hands over Chan’s before he pulls away to turn around. Chan stares at him, eyes studying Jisung’s face. Jisung can practically see the wheels in his head overworking themselves.

He can’t help it, his heart and mind have established Chan as his most precious being. He is unable to stop his smile, reaching to tilt Chan’s head to press his lips to his forehead before speaking.

“Channie, whatever you decide, you can let me know. I won’t be upset, okay? I’ll respect whatever you want to do” he murmurs.

He feels Chan grasp his wrists, looking at him with almost wonder and smiles. And isn’t that the most beautiful thing, Jisung thinks. His cute smile, his dimples and eyes bright.

Jisung sees Chan leaning against the wall just around the corner of the restaurant. He drinks in his entire being. His hair slicked back but one side that frames his face, a leather jacket with a simple grey shirt underneath and dark jeans and black boots. As he walks closer he sees him with makeup accentuating his eyes.

Jisung can go into detail about every aspect of Chan that he loves, but the easiest answer is: everything. 

“Chan-ssi” he calls to him. Chan looks up from his phone and gives him a smile as he pushes away from the wall and walks closer to him.

“Am I underdressed?” Chan asks as he looks Jisung up and down, Jisung stares at him, can’t help but feel fond. Chan forgets that Jisung’s uniform, in essence, is a business suit.

“Of course not” Jisung says, grasping his hand to lead him inside. Chan looks around, Jisung forgets that Chan isn’t used to going to these places.

In reality, Jisung wants to do nothing but spoil him. Wants to give him everything and anything Chan may want and need. It’s an instinct that he feels to provide for Chan. The latter often declines this or that.

There are times when Jisung himself let’s his own stubborn side out and often persuades him to accept his gifts. Though he’s come to learn Chan’s boundaries, he also takes note that a lot of the times that Chan feels like it’s a waste of money, it has to do a lot with how he grew up. Limited financially – little indulges affordable, but having enough conscious to mind his situation.

Jisung finds it adorable, because while he understands Chan’s stand, Jisung will do everything possible to provide for him.

Chan seems to be enjoying the food and Jisung can only look on with fondness when Chan makes his little fist as he bites into the food. Absolutely delighted on the food he’s eating.

It makes him remember their dates. Not once has Chan asked for anything concerning money. Despite Jisung’s gifts. Despite Jisung taking him to expensive places. Despite Chan having been shown the small cabin Jisung had built in the plot of land he bought – to give Chan his own space to see the meteor showers.

Chan had been surprised of course, had been slightly upset even when Jisung said he had bought it for him. And actually, it was probably the one time they had a bit of a disagreement – not something Jisung thought it was a major fight, since he was more aware that Chan might react the way he did.

He makes a mental groan when he thinks about how Minho had to mediate. He’ll never let him live it down.

Chan had stayed with Minho and had texted Jisung that he would be busy. Minho had laughed at him then – the usual at this point.

“Well, what did you expect? You think giving him expensive gifts is all he cares about?” Minho said, a roll of his eyes.

Jisung muttered under his breath, and Minho, delighted, had said he will be keeping Chan hostage until further notice before he left the Café.

Unlikely allies, Changbin had actually been a bit more helpful. Changbin had too given him a roll of the eyes and a snort.

“I don’t know man, I told you before, Channie-hyung doesn’t care for fancy things. But! He’s not really staying here. Minho said he was going to talk to him though. Channie has his thesis to worry about. I don’t really think it’s because he is really that upset, just busy”

Jisung huffed and then asked Changbin to give Chan a message, since Chan was ignoring his messages. Maybe it really was a bigger issue than he thought.

“Don’t worry man, Channie-hyung isn’t cruel. Actually, I wouldn’t even be surprised if Minho blocked your number until Chan was ready” Changbin said, a thoughtful look as he crossed his arms, head tilted in thought as he rubbed his chin.

Jisung wouldn’t be surprised if that was the case. It’s only been a couple of days and Jisung could give him the space he needed.

He shouldn’t have been surprised when he received a message from Minho, it was of Chan asleep atop of his laptop. Jisung had the urge to run his fingers through the soft tresses. He looked exhausted.

Chan took one last bite as Jisung took a sip of his water. He had finished his meals and was merely enjoying being with Chan.

Chan places his utensils down and then sighs. He grins at Jisung and then reaches to lightly touch Jisung’s fingers. Jisung hums as he turns his hand over for Chan to place his hand on it. He curls his fingers around his and thumbs gently over the knuckles.

Jisung takes in the black band around Chan’s promise finger, the small diamonds within the small, subtle star design around the ring glitter.

Jisung was sitting on his leather sofa, legs crossed over with his laptop open on the coffee table, his hand holding a budget report, when he hears his phone go off with a specific ping.

Chan’s.

He instantly picks it up from the coffee table and sees a message.

“Jisung-ah, can we talk?”

He stands up and moves towards the balcony as he dials the number he now knows by memory. It’s been a little over a week since Chan went quiet with him, though Jisung had attempted to message him, he never got a reply back. If he were to believe Changbin, Minho did most likely blocked him.

He had been annoyed, at first, but Minho had sent him a message stating Chan was too busy for him to be distracted and if Jisung were to trigger Chan’s worries, the latter wont be able to focus. Jisung reluctantly agreed to wait for Chan’s message.

He felt the coolness of the night, the season was changing, but it was still cold out.

 “Chan-ssi,” he says in greeting, leaning on the railing on his back and tilting his head, “how are you doing?” He asks, listening intently to the background. General traffic sounds and slight wind resounding in the background.

“Jisung-ah … I’m sorry, I didn’t know. I’m sorry” Chan starts, causing Jisung to become alert instantly, his brows furrowing. Chan sounds really upset and on the verge of crying.

“Chan-ssi, what’s wrong?” he asks, hurriedly going back inside and making his way to the main door.

He puts on his shoes and collects his keys and wallet, snatching his jacket from the coatrack. He closes the door as it automatically locks and heads to the elevator.

“I’m sorry, Sungie.” Chan let’s out a choked sob and Jisung clenches his hand, feeling useless.

“Hey, baby, what’s wrong? Are you hurt?” he asks, tapping his foot impatiently at the elevator and then it dings as it reaches the lobby. He ignores the other people greeting him, as he rushes out of the main door.

“Chan-ssi, where are you?” he asks, a little forceful in his need to get to him. He hears Chan whine a little before he sniffles.

“I’m sorry. I’m outside your place. Even if you don’t want to see … me” Chan trails off with a whimper. Jisung halts and he feels sick to his stomach. Not want to see him? When? Jisung would give anything to be with Chan on a daily. He shakes his head and takes more steps.

“Chan, hey, what’s the matter? Where are –” Jisung sighs in relief when he spots him. Sees him squatting against the metal fence, one hand rubbing at his face and the other holding his phone. He speed walks to him.

“Chan-ssi” he says, he can hear the relief in his own voice.

Chan shudders and Jisung takes in the thin white shirt with red designs accentuated with red and white rhinestones, ankle boots and black pants. He frowns when it takes Chan a minute to realize it only for him to stumble as he rises and look at Jisung.

“Chan-ssi,” Jisung repeats again, taking now the midrise of his shirt. He looks like he’s freezing, how long has he been out there? He is already removing his jacket and moving closer to him.

Chan stares at him with red rimmed eyes, before he averts his eyes when Jisung wraps his coat around his shoulders.

“Jisung-ah …” Chan says, then shudders as warmth begins to seep through his clothes due to the jacket and it holding Jisung’s remaining body heat.

“Hey, look at me” Jisung says a little too firmly – maybe because he is worried, but he feels a bit of irritation at the situation. Chan bites his lip as he turns his eyes to him. He grips Jisung’s jacket.

Jisung sighs and does what he’s been wanting to do for the past week or so. He closes the distance and takes Chan in his arms. Chan sucks in a breath before he lets out a soft whine and buries his nose against Jisung’s neck, his arms wrapping tightly around his waist.

“This is so delicious, Jisung-ah” Chan says, eyes darting around the table, then towards the window, and out to the city. The sundown tinting of the window giving them the privacy yet the ability to see outside.

Chan blinks as he focuses on something outside. Curious, Jisung follows his gaze without saying anything. Chan then turns to him again and smiles almost tentatively. Jisung gives him his full attention – Jisung wants Chan to feel as comfortable as possible to be able to tell him everything and anything that may bother him, makes him happy, makes him worry. Jisung wants to know everything.

They stay out in the cold for a bit too long until Chan shivers and Jisung squeezes him again, before he pulls away momentarily causing Chan to let out a small protest noise.

“Hey, let’s go inside, okay. You’re freezing.” Jisung murmurs into Chan’s ear. Chan shudders and seems to nod reluctantly.

Once they’re inside, Jisung receives another greeting and this time he acknowledges them, and they also welcome Chan a bit hesitantly, which the latter greets them in return with a tentative smile.

As they make it to the elevator he hears them whisper. He frowns when he catches what they said – they had turned Chan away because he didn’t have the access without checking with him first.

Jisung  clenches his jaw and then puts the thought away for now. He twines their fingers as they ride the elevator up. Chan hasn’t said anything else and he finds that more concerning.

When they make it to his place, Jisung lightly leads Chan inside, removing the jacket and placing his keys and wallet on the counter. Chan hesitates to walk further in until Jisung grabs his hand and takes him towards the sofa.

“I’m sorry” Chan says, it makes Jisung frown momentarily, upset at seeing Chan crying. Chan didn’t say if he was hurt, so Jisung begins to tilt his head this way and that, cupping his face and sees only red cheeks stained with tears, lashes heavy with remaining ones. He sees bitten red lips – not in a good way and then he slides his hands to his neck and patting his shoulders and arms to gently touch his chest and back.

“Chan-ssi, you had me worried” he says, sliding to kneel before him. He sees Chan’s face beginning to scrunch, no doubt in another bout of tears.

“hey, hey, it’s okay. You’re okay, baby, tell me what’s wrong” Jisung tries again, cupping his face and staring at him with earnest.

“I didn’t mean to. I didn’t want to” Chan whispers, biting his bottom lip hard.

“Hey, you’ll hurt yourself” he says softly, thumbing away the lip from teeth. Chan sucks in a deep breath and then closes his eyes leaning into Jisung’s palms.

Maybe it’s an impossible task, because he knows Chan is a very independent individual – stubborn, that he knows Chan will never depend on him one hundred percent. But he wants Chan to know that he is and will be there.

“Jisung-ah” Chan says, looking down to their hands, then back to Jisung.

Jisung gives him his undivided attention and takes in Chan’s eyes cloud over momentarily before he blinks and focuses back to him.

“My parents will be coming to the ceremony” Chan starts, squeezing Jisung’s hand, “um, they … I told them about you” Chan bites his lip, sucking in a breath and staring into his eyes. Jisung can see the insecurities. Feels how clammy his hand feels. He tugs his hand closer to his side, holding it firmly.

Chan stares at Jisung, wet eyes darting over his face. He closes them briefly and then reaches to hold Jisung’s wrist.

“I didn’t know Minho-ya blocked your number, I’ve been so busy with my research and thesis and I … I didn’t think to check, it’s something so simple … Jisung-ah …”

Jisung huffs, not surprised in the slightest that it was in fact Minho’s doing.

“I guess, I was more upset than I thought I would be when I didn’t hear from you” Chan bites his lip again making Jisung frown,  “but I didn’t want to burden you.”

“Minho was invited to a party, as usual, I don’t really go to them because I’m always busy, but I decided to go because I wanted a distraction” Chan hesitates, averting his gaze.

Jisung grits his teeth, not liking where this was going. He takes a deep breath and Chan whimpers at his display of emotion.

“I didn’t know he’d be there, Jisung-ah. It never occurred to me of seeing him again and try to do something, knowing that I’m with someone” he says. Jisung closes his eyes. Chan doesn’t have to say who, not from what Jisung experienced when he saw that man around Chan.

“He was so drunk, I just happened to bump to him when I was trying to find Changbin to go back home, but he was there. He didn’t let me go. His grip on my hand was so strong and I tried, Sungie, I tried to pull away, but he pushed me against the wall and cornered me.”

Jisung feels his growl reverated in his chest. He let’s go of Chan’s face and then grasps his hands, noticing the bruises already becoming more noticeable.

“He kissed me. He was so drunk, Jisung. It was so disgusting. I tried so hard to stop him but he wouldn’t”

Jisung narrows his eyes and looks at his lip now. He sees the bite on the corner of Chan’s lips. He grits his teeth and then let’s go of his wrists and cups his face. He leans in and Chan stops him with a hand to his chest.

“No … it’s disgusting, I was vomiting” Chan says.

Jisung huffs and pushes Chan’s hand away, leaning to him and capturing his mouth in a hot kiss. He pries his lips open, bites on his lips and pushes his tongue inside. He’s rougher than he would ever think of being with Chan. The latter, however, whimpers and opens up for him, touches his tongue to Jisung’s. Jisung growls deeply again and rises, pushing Chan against the back of the sofa. Chan allows Jisung to place a knee between his thighs and cup his face, holding him as he licks every crevice in Chan’s mouth.

He swipes his tongue against the tongue, the molars and teeth, he feels Chan drooling against his chin and he feels a visceral need to possess every bit of him.

Chan whimpers when Jisung sucks on his tongue on the verge of painful and he pulls back a little, allowing Chan to breath. Chan looks debauched as Jisung places kisses on his lips, licking at them to sooth and to be as much in physical contact as possible.

“I just … um … I wasn’t sure if you wanted to meet them. I didn’t know how serious we are? Jisung-ah.” Chan stops, sucks in another breath and Jisung feels a hint of anger. Not at Chan, never at him, but at the fact that even bringing it up of being in a serious relationship, it causes Chan to become enclosed, afraid of their relationship, it seems that Chan had a serious bad experience. He loathes the thought of someone instilling so much doubt in him.

Jisung controls his emotions and gives Chan a reassuring smile, bringing Chan’s hand to press his lips to his knuckles making Chan stare at him.

“Sungie” Chan whispers, curling his fingers and then taking in a deep breath.

“Channie, I would be delighted to meet your parents.” Jisung murmurs, reaching over to touch Chan’s jaw with his other hand. He finds it very endearing, how Chan is comfortable enough with him to give him a pet name. Still, despite everything, Jisung knows he probably has to keep reminding Chan how serious they can be – after all, Jisung has asked him to move in with him.

He runs his thumb over his cheek and smiles at him knowingly, unable to stop his need to comfort him.

He reeled his emotions in and apologized to Chan for his actions. Chan had shaken his head and reached over to cup Jisung’s face, leaning to press their foreheads together.

“Jisung-ah, I … I’d never cheat on you, please believe me” Chan whispers. Jisung feels him shake in his hold. He sighed and then, gentler than before he thumbed at Chan’s jaw before he kissed it and nuzzled him.

“Hey, baby, of course I know. I trust you, Chan.” Jisung murmurs as he plants another lingering kiss. Chan nodded and a stray tear slid down his cheek.

Jisung hums as he nuzzles Chan’s nose.

“Chan-ssi, don’t ever think I don’t want to see you. You’ve been on my mind every day, sweetheart. Don’t ever think you’ll be a burden to me. You had me worried, how did you get here?” Jisung states, looking up to catch Chan’s eyes. The latter nods, then hesitates.

“Minho-ya dropped me off. He found me when I was trying to fend him off.” Chan shudders.

Jisung led Chan into the bathroom, helping him undress, placing soft kisses on every inch of skin he saw, biting lightly to cause Chan to gasp and shudder.

“You looked really beautiful in that outfit, Channie. I’ll buy you a new one, a better outfit and we can get rid of that one and those memories” Jisung said, leading Chan inside the shower after discarding his own. Chan shuddered as he felt the cold tile against his back. Jisung mumbled an apology as he guided Chan away from the shower head and turned on the water until it was just right.

Chan giggled when Jisung touched his rib, before wrapping his arms around Jisung’s neck.

“Okay, Sungie. I’ll wear whatever you give me” Chan says as he leans in and presses a chaste kiss to Jisung’s cheek.

“It truly would be an honor to meet them, Chan.” He says, and despite Jisung having skeptical thoughts about Chan’s parents, seemingly caring and loving yet those that ignorant of moments of Chan needing support and comfort, he still respects them as Chan’s parents.

For Chan, he will push these away and be cordial – maybe even nice to them. He knows it would upset Chan otherwise, and he wants to do anything but.

He sees Chan close his eyes and lean to his hand, Jisung can’t help but want to hold him.

When Jisung woke up, he felt Chan’s weight against him. His arm mostly numb as he cradled Chan to his chest. The sheet had slid down to expose the soft skin of Chan’s shoulder.

Jisung zeroed in on the bite mark that he left on said shoulder, delighted at the memory of Chan’s pleasured reaction. Seeing his face when he is so far gone with pleasure is stored in Jisung’s memory, he loves every bit of him.

He moves just enough to be able to reach over to the nightstand and rummage through the drawer, until he finds what he’s looking for.

He smiles as he sees the small blue velvet box, opening it and seeing the ring he bought for him. It was a gift he wanted to give him as a boost to help him get through the last weeks of his schooling, but then a lot happened before now.

He still felt annoyed that someone had the audacity to touch him, surely that man wont think that there wont be any consequences. Jisung had his pride as a man and as someone that is willing to do anything for Chan.

He took out the ring and carefully, placed the box back on the nightstand and fiddled around until he found Chan’s left hand, he slid the ring on his promise finger and lifted to place a kiss on it.

Chan stirred at that, blinking the sleep off and staring at Jisung, a small smile making itself known before he realized.

“Good morning, Chan-ssi” Jisung said. Kissing the ring again before he leaned down to peck a kiss on Chan’s nose.

“morning … Jisung?” Chan asks, bringing his hand to him and seeing the glimmer of the ring as the light slipping through the curtain bounced on it.

“Do you like it? I got it for you to lift your spirit on your busy days” Jisung says and Chan blinks once, then twice before he made a noncommittal noise in the back of his throat as he buried his face against Jisung’s neck.

“It so pretty, thank you” Chan murmurs.

“It pales to you, Chan-ssi” Jisung says, earning a shake of the head and then a huff.

“You’re such a smooth talker” Chan says as he pulls back and giggles when Jisung hums and traces his hand over his ribs.

“I speak but the truth” Jisung says, playfully leaning down to bite at Chan’s shoulder making the latter squirm and Jisung had the need to hear his laughter.

He reached down to lightly poke at his ribs. Chan huffed, trying to pull away but soon he was giggling as he writhes at Jisung’s ministrations.

They talk more about plans regarding Chan’s parents, their flight arrival, their stay in a rented vacation home. Chan explained that he will be staying with them until they leave. Now that he had some free time – waiting on the last revision on his thesis and evaluation, Chan seemed more at ease, but Jisung can still see how he worries.

Once finished and they’re ready to leave, Jisung extends his hand to lead Chan out. The latter, polite as ever, wishes the waiters and staff a good day. Jisung squeezes his hand in appreciation at his behavior.

“Oh, right, um we can maybe set up an afternoon to have lunch together” Chan says.

Jisung hums, glancing at Chan briefly before he leads him down the street.

“They will be arriving in the next couple of days” Chan says, pausing in his steps and causing Jisung to stop. Jisung looks at him then, sees the quick glances Chan is giving him. Jisung truly doesn’t mind that Chan wants to spend time with his parents, though he definitely would prefer to spend all his time with him.

“Of course, Chan-ssi, spending time with your family is important, specially if you don’t see them as often.” Jisung says, and Chan sets his eyes on him again, but Jisung can see him biting the flesh of his bottom lip.

“My mom can be a little too much, Jisung-ah. My dad … my dad is very competitive … Jisung-ah, give them a chance, please” he says, squeezing Jisung’s hand.

Jisung finds it cute how Chan tries to seemingly be preparing him for the meet up. He lightly tugs Chan forward to be next to him. Chan follows, reaching out his other hand to touch Jisung’s arm, as if he wanted to be as close as possible.

“Chan-ssi, I’m sure your parents are lovely people.” Jisung says and squeezes his hand in comfort.

Jisung cradles Chan as he runs his fingers through his hair. He hadn’t fallen asleep again, but Chan did. He must have been exhausted – though Jisung had checked his temperature just in case.

He hears his phone ping with a message. He ignores it and then it pings again. He picks it up to avoid waking Chan up.

            “Hey …”

  “Is Chan with you?”

It’s Minho. Briefly, Jisung feels annoyed. He decides to answer after having a thought of Minho waking Chan up.

    “He is”

Jisung wants to question what actually happened. He feels an annoyance at the lack of attention Chan has. He knows Chan is grown up, is an adult that can take care of himself – he knows that, but his need to protect is fierce towards him.

“Oh thank goodness”

Minho responds, the bubble pops up as if he will say something else, but then stops. Jisung closes the messages and places his phone away on silent mode, because right now, he doesn’t care for apologies, for him or Chan.

He feels Chan stir but settles back down as he soothes his hand up and down his back.

“Minho will take me to the airport to pick them up. Ah, mom is always happy to see him” Chan says, and maybe Jisung imagined it, but he sees a glimmer in Chan’s eyes at that.

“Couldn’t imagine why” Jisung mutters, earning a small frown from Chan before Jisung winked at him. Chan huffs a laugh, separating himself from Jisung to walk properly.

“Minho is really nice, Sungie, I’ve known him for so long, he’s been with me all this time despite the disaster I can be.” Chan says, leading Jisung down the street and reaching the entrance of Jisung’s place. Jisung dislikes how Chan talks about himself sometimes. Chan continues to talk about Minho and their friendship.

And to be honest, Jisung doesn’t dislike the other male – he finds him annoying at times, but his personality is interesting. He can see why and how they’ve been friends for so long.

He had ordered brunch online as soon as Chan stirred awake late in the morning. He had slid back into bed and held Chan as the latter yawned.

“Good morning, Chan-ssi” Jisung murmurs, “I ordered something to eat” he states. Chan hums and rubs the sleep off his eyes.

“Mornin’ … food?” Chan seems to perk up momentarily. “I want to shower first” Chan says in return. Jisung hums as Chan slides down the bed, til the edge. Jisung holds back a smile as he sits up.

“Sure, Chan-ssi. I’ll wait for the food, you can take a shower” Jisung says.

Jisung went downstairs to pick up the order, while deciding to speak with the staff of the building.

He hears Chan talking on the phone just as he steps into the threshold of his place.

“I know, it’s okay” Chan says, raising his head to look at Jisung when the latter walks further into the living room. He smiles when he shows him the food.

“Minho-ssi, I’ll talk to you later, okay?” Chan listens to the response and then sighs, as if he heard the same thing again, “Yes, of course” Chan says, smiling apologetically at Jisung when he catches his eyes as Jisung unpacks the meal.

“Of course, Chan-ssi, now can I ask you something?” he asks – redundant. He nods to the security as he now leads Chan through the lobby and into the elevator.

Chan giggles, but nods as he seems to catch on to Jisung’s thoughts. As much as he likes the idea of Chan having someone he can trust, he doesn’t want to spend their time talking about Minho.

“You seemed to have picked up a pet name for me” he says, watching Chan’s face flush. He holds a straight face as he sees his ears light up as the elevator door closes once they’re inside.

“Uh… um… if you don’t like it, I can stop” Chan says, a hint of worry. Jisung fully lets go of Chan’s hand and crowds him into the corner. Chan takes a sharp breath.

Jisung tilts his head and reaches to run the pads of his thumb over the apple of his cheeks.

“Of course not, Chan-ssi, I think it’s the first time I’ve been given a pet name” Jisung hums in thought, leaning to brush his lips to Chan’s temple. “Thank you” Jisung murmurs.

The door dings and they find themselves on Jisung’s floor, he reluctantly pulls away to press the code to enter the floor.

“I still can’t believe you own the whole floor” Chan says, clearing his throat as he separates himself from the wall. Jisung glances at him before he winks. Chan huffs as he sees Jisung extend his hand to him.

“It’s convenient. No noisy or nosey neighbors, a lot of privacy and the only ones that have access to the floor is myself, the security and now you” Jisung explains, and Chan pauses as they go in through the main door for a moment,

“Um … when you meet my parents, can it be something casual?” Chan asks, making Jisung pause and then fully turn to him. He grasps Chan’s hands and steps closer. He studies Chan’s facial expressions, sees the shift in his eyes, the barely noticeable frown.

“Hmm, we can do whatever you want, Channie” Jisung says, trying to sooth the sudden worry Chan seems to have. It seems to work, but not as fully as he wants it to. He touches him light as he runs his hands up Chan’s forearms to his shoulders until he wraps his arms around his form.

“Channie, tell me what is it that has you so worried. Do you think that your parents and I wont get along? Do you have doubts of me meeting them now?  We can wait, Chan-ssi, whatever you want me to do, just tell me what has you like this.” Jisung curls his arms tighter, feeling Chan shake his head.

“No, Jisung-ah, I want you to meet them. I want them to know you, but … I just … I’m just … I’m just paranoid … ” Jisung hears him trail off, burying his face deeper to Jisung’s neck.

Jisung holds him, waiting until Chan is the one that pulls away, because Jisung won’t let go. Not until he knows Chan has received all the comfort he needs. Jisung has no place to judge Chan’s parents and their parenting, he just finds it hard to accept that parents that had sent him over to a whole new country to get an education, basically left him on his own.

Jisung has a busy day on the day Chan sent him a message about picking up his parents at the airport with a picture. Chan with a V sign over one eye while the other winks and Minho exasperated in the background, hands on the steering wheel.

He smirks because he knows that Minho had some guilt over the whole situation – though Chan had told Jisung that it wasn’t his fault. After all, he was the one that took off wandering to find Changbin.

Jisung could disagree, but at the end of the day, Chan was a nice person, he was a forgiving person.

Jisung stares at the proposal before him. His mind wandering back to what Chan was doing. Perhaps because of the whole incident, he doesn’t feel as confident in Minho looking out for Chan.

He knows it’s silly, because despite it all, Chan still seems to adore Minho. Seems to care deeply for him and will forgive him for something like this. Jisung has never claimed to be as forgiving, but knowing that Chan is, he doesn’t have room to say as much.

His phone pings an incoming message and it’s of Chan sending a picture message of them in the airport waiting area – he wonders if Chan can sense his need to know where he is at, despite actually knowing where he was at the moment.

“I’m so excited”

Chan sends that message and Jisung can see it in the reflection of his orbs. He genuinely looks happy and excited to see his parents. His previous concerns hidden. Though to Jisung, it just makes it more obvious that, despite Chan showing his love and affection for his parents, there’s a note of trepidation. It just made him follow Chan’s every move when he’s around. Sees his every quirk and every expression.

“I’m glad, Chan-ssi, let me know if you need anything”

He responds, earning bubbles popping up as a start of a message. He merely observes, waiting for Chan to open up more to him.

“❤️”

Jisung wants to kiss him so bad, Chan rarely uses emoticons on his messages and Jisung finds it quite adorable that he uses it with him. For now, he focuses back on the task at hand and goes through other proposals, contracts, and board meetings, until the end of the day.

He doesn’t hear anything else from Chan since the last message. He has a lot to do before he can be absent from his own company. After all, he will be meeting Chan’s parents tomorrow, and though Chan had messaged him of the time, he wonders how Chan is doing around them.

Chan walked in hesitantly through the door, making Jisung look up from his pile of proposals and contracts. He closes his laptop and stacks them on top, giving Chan his full attention.

Chan wrung his hands when he showed the webpage of the restaurant to Jisung.

“I know it’s not something you’re used to … I mean we can go somewhere else … if you want, you know wha–”

Jisung hands over the phone and reaches to tug Chan to him by his wrist. Chan complies as Jisung guides him to sit on his lap, letting Jisung take his left hand and twine their fingers, turning it over to bring it to his lips.

“I’m okay with anything Chan, all I care about is if you like it, okay?” Jisung states, looking at Chan. The latter makes a noncommittal noise. Jisung smiles, really finds him too cute sometimes.

“Chan-ssi, I have a surprise for you” Jisung says, glancing at him, then at their hands.

“Oh, okay”

“Hm, if you’re not busy at all today or tomorrow” Jisung says.

“I’m free today and tomorrow, mom sent me a message saying that the flight got changed, so they’ll be arriving by Friday night”

“So you’ll be exclusively mine for a day?” Jisung asks teasingly earning flushed cheeks.

“I’m always yours” Chan responds, flustered.

Jisung has a thought of just staying home with him, but he wants to give him a break from everything. He’s been working so hard these past couple of weeks.

They’re at the airport, Chan stopped in his tracks when they got out of the car, Jisung distracting him enough until now.

“I thought we could head over to Jeju island for today” Jisung says, and Chan looks back, almost looking confused, “we’ll come back by tomorrow noon” Jisung says.

Chan sighs, almost exasperated. Jisung wonders if he stepped over the line Chan places as a limit. He reaches over and cups his jaw, staring into his eyes, questioning.

“Jisung-ah, you always keep me on my toes” Chan says. A small laugh past his lips before he steps closer and pecks Jisung’s lips. “You’re always thinking about me” Chan murmurs.

Jisung leans in to kiss him more firmly, nipping gently at his lips. Chan sighs against his mouth.

“How can I not, Channie?” Jisung asks in return, caressing his jaw. Chan hums and pecks him once more before pulling away.

“I didn’t bring anything” Chan says, almost accusingly, Jisung grins as he makes his way to the trunk of the car and retrieves a luggage.

“I bought some sets of clothing for you” he says, reaching over to grasp Chan’s hand, making the latter blink once then twice before a shake of the head.

“Of course you did” he says, as they make their way inside the airport, “and I suppose, my passport made it to you on its own?”

“Wrong. Actually, Minho asked Changbin for it and dropped it off to me last night while you were in the shower.” Chan gaped at him. Jisung laughed at his silly face before leaning to kiss his forehead.

“Now come, the flight should be leaving in thirty.”

Chan calls Jisung late in the evening, his voice sounding happy.

“Chan-ssi, did you have a good day today?” he asks. Chan starts telling him of his day. Jisung listens and hums, asking a question here and there, if only to keep Chan on the phone.

“Jisung-ah, I miss you” Chan says towards the end of the call. Jisung hums and takes a deep breath.

“I want to see you, Channie” he says, leaning forward to rest his elbow on his knee. He feels the need to touch him. Chan laughs softly.

“It feels weird staying in this house. Feels different,  different than being at mine and Changbin’s apartment, different than your place. I miss your place, I miss you being close by” Chan murmurs.

Jisung bites his lip to stop the urge to feel Chan’s skin on his lips.

“Chan-ssi, want to go for a night drive? We can go to the cabin, I promise not to keep you overnight” Jisung says, Chan’s breath hitches. Jisung forgets that the cabin is still new to Chan.

“We can go anywhere you want” Jisung amends.

“No, Jisung, the cabin sounds nice” Chan says. A small huff is heard over the earpiece.

“Good. I’ll pick you up in ten minutes” Jisung says, glancing at his watch, and sees it already close to nine.

“Okay, Sungie, I’ll be waiting for you” Chan says before hanging up.

Jisung checks them in at the hotel, leading Chan to a big suite that oversees the ocean. Chan stutters as he takes note of the balcony space with furniture. He leans over the railing to see the white sand and soothing waves. It’s on the first floor with mini stairs that lead to the space into the beach.

Chan shakes his head and glances at Jisung. The latter making his way to him. Jisung curls his arms around his waist, resting his chin on Chan’s shoulder.

“It’s so pretty” Chan murmurs, leaning back. Jisung hums as he nuzzles into his neck.

It’s still early afternoon, and though it’s slightly cooler than he would have liked, he liked the idea of Chan being stress free. Chan is always thinking about what needed to be done next.

“Chan-ssi, today, we are just going to enjoy the time here. Just enjoy this, just you and me, nothing else matter, okay?” Jisung proposes against Chan’s ear, the latter shivers but nods before hesitating.

“There’s just so much to do …” Jisung hums and turns Chan around. He pets his hair gently and cups his face.

“Taking a break for a day is okay, Chan-ssi, you’ll burn yourself out. Let your mind rest and decompress from everyday worries” Jisung murmurs as he leans to press a soft kiss on his cheek.

Chan flushes at that and Jisung understands, that Chan is an overthinker. He’s a perfectionist that if he doesn’t do things himself, he will redo it again. Chan mumbles something against his lips but then sighs and wraps his arms around him.

“Promise me” Jisung asks, caressing Chan’s jawline. Reluctantly, Chan huffs but nods.

“Good, now lets go eat something, I heard your stomach grumbling about an hour ago” Jisung says, making Chan flustered.

Jisung picks up Chan just a little after nine. The latter instantly leaning to press a kiss on his lips. Jisung shakes his head when Chan giggles after he locks the door.

“I had to sneak out to not wake up my parents” Chan says, a mischievous grin on his lips. Jisung snorts a little before he begins driving them to the cabin.

It doesn’t take long but Chan has already grasped his hand and leaned to rest against his arm.

They make it to the cabin and Chan gapes at the size of it as he looks back to Jisung.

“Did you expand on it?” Jisung hears Chan ask as he goes to the trunk to retrieve thick covers.

“Hmm, expanded the balcony area, I wanted it to have more space to add more furniture.” Jisung says, walking to him, hands full.

Chan hurries helps him.

“besides, the awning is too far out, so it covered the sky. It will give more of an opening to the view.” Jisung explained.

“I think it turned out really nice, the design” Chan says, eyes darting here and there once Jisung unlocked it. The living room itself was wide, an open plan. A chimney, with a small passage to the kitchen, that led to another living room. Stairs that lead to the rooms.

Chan wandered around as Jisung follows Chan around, he feels like a love sick puppy. Shows him around the area, up the stairs and backyard, then back to the kitchen and the fireplace.

They explore the area after having lunch with view of the ocean. Chan laughs when clams jump with the heat as they open up, startling him.

Jisung huffs when Chan teases him as he tries to feed him. Jisung had previous relationships, but those were purely physical. It wasn’t anything serious that either side attempted to pursue.

With Chan it’s different. He feels happy seeing his smile, hearing his laughter and hearing him sing and hum to himself when he works on his paperwork.

Jisung can’t help but remember the first day of coming home after a busy day of board meetings and proposals and seeing Chan in his kitchen – after the incident of Chan being locked out, Jisung had the security update his information in their system.

Adding Chan as a resident of his home. Jisung had told Chan that night and given him the code, along with a key as backup. Chan had been surprised, of course, but had eventually thanked Jisung – though he had told him it wasn’t needed.

Jisung clarified to Chan it wasn’t a means to coerce him into moving in, but rather, he would feel better to know that if needed Chan had full access to his place.

Before Chan, these kind of thoughts never crossed his mind. He never really saw himself as someone that could spend his life with someone else. The expectations of people, he always thought he’d be a bachelor owning his own business. Go to work early, arrive home late to keep busy.

Lately, the more time Chan spends at his place, the more he tries to be home early.

Chan had been delighted when Jisung had set up the hammock, piles of warm covers and a heated blanket.

They were on the backyard of the cabin, and finally, after they drank their tea, Jisung had led Chan outside and they settled on the hammock. The fire pit table keeping warm around them.

Chan giggled when Jisung squeezed him against his chest.

“This is nice” Chan whispers, arms wrapped around Jisung before he looks at the sky and sees billions of star aligning the night sky.

He sighs and presses his nose under Jisung’s jaw before he hums a song. The hammock swings as he moves to see the sky again. Jisung sees the fire illuminating Chan’s face, eyes glowing.

“Look, Sungie” Chan murmurs, grasping Jisung’s hand, closing one eye as he raises their hands to point at the sky.

“There” Chan says quietly, twining their fingers until both their pointer fingers are aimed at the sky. He moves it slowly.

“Virgo” Chan murmurs, looking back at Jisung with eyes full of excitement. Jisung hums as he lets him trace the stars with his hand.

Chan giggles when Jisung attempts to retrace it. Jisung can’t help but smile and try again and again until Chan grins at him and nods.

“Show me yours” Jisung murmurs, leaning to brush his lips to the crown of Chan’s head.

Chan raises his head to look at him again – he smiles wide and Jisung feels an urge to dip his finger into his dimple.

“We’re next to each other” Chan says, smile wider and eyes sparkling – brighter than the stars.

Jisung hums as Chan traces the Libra constellation.

“Even the universe wants us together” Chan says and a giggle falls from his lip, as if he thinks it’s such a hilarious comment.

Jisung grips his hand tighter and brings it to his lips. Chan looks at him again, a slight tilt of his head.

“I’m glad it’s you, Chan-ssi” Jisung says, squeezing him closer, “you’re like my own little bright star” he says as he leans to press his lips to Chan’s forehead. Chan feels warmer and Jisung can probably guess he’s embarrassed by Jisung’s line.

Chan mutters something under his breath before he hides his face against Jisung’s neck once more. Jisung laughs at that, but keeps a hold on him.

When Chan start dozing off, they’re driving back, the ride is not far, but they stayed for a couple of hours out. Chan leaned against the pillow Jisung had packed and placed for him against the door because Chan had said he was sleepy before they left the cabin.

Once they arrived, Jisung waited for another minute before he began to wake him fully. Chan made a noise of complaint before he yawned and sat up, rubbing the sleep, at least enough to get inside. Jisung made sure Chan carried his phone and keys and then went with him to the door after parking.

Jisung waited until Chan walked in through the door and waited another couple of minutes until Chan had peeked out the window of the second floor. Jisung shook his head when Chan closed the curtain and shut off the light. So much for sneaking out, he thinks, smiling at how Chan seemed excited about the mischief. He checks the time and notices it was a quarter to midnight.

Once they finished their walk and going for a quick swim – Chan had been delighted to spend time in the water. Jisung had opted otherwise and had merely enjoyed seeing Chan having fun, but later had reluctantly went in. Chan had swam to him and laughed against Jisung’s shoulder when Jisung grumbled about the cold water.

After an hour or so, they decided to go back to the hotel and wash off. Chan had gone in first, setting up everything and Jisung had called to a restaurant he wanted to take Chan to make a reservation for later that night.

Once completed, he joined Chan as the latter was discarding his clothes. Jisung took in his physic, noticing the redness of the sunburn despite the sunblock he had used. Jisung reached out and lightly touched him, cool fingers on warm skin.

Chan shivered and then reached out to help Jisung undress.

Chan had a deeper flush on his body as they finally made it out of the bathroom after being there longer than necessary, because Jisung can’t help but crave for him.

Chan had been so vocal, after Jisung promised that the rooms were unoccupied not telling Chan he had reserved the entire hotel just for him. He'd been so pliant and sweet. Jisung can never get enough of him, feeling him pressed against himself. Chan being soft and warm, letting out the most sinful moans and mewls just for him. Jisung has every moment of him burned to his retinas. His eyes glistened with tears, his silent moans, the bite of his lip and the flush of his skin.

Chan is truly the sweetest sin.

Jisung gently laid him down and pulled out the aloe vera cream, carefully patting Chan dry as he laid on the bed with his robe open. Chan shivered when Jisung soothingly rubbed the aloe Vera on his sun-kissed skin, still feeling warm despite the shower.

“You’re going to break me to pieces” Chan says with a huff as Jisung lingers on his chest. Jisung snorts as he leans down and lightly bites the pec. Chan grunts before he glares at him with a pout.

“Channie, this is me being gentle” he says, blinking up at him. Chan snaps his mouth shut, glaring playfully at Jisung.

Jisung bites his lip to stop his laugh as he continues to rub the cream over Chan’s body. Once done, Jisung slips into bed and gathers Chan in his arms.

“We have a reservation for dinner later tonight, let’s rest for a bit” Jisung says as he tangles his fingers to Chan’s hair, rubbing soothing circles on his scalp. Chan groans at the massage and leans more to his chest, nuzzling under his jaw.

“How did I get so lucky to meet you?” Chan whispers, curling his arms around Jisung’s waist, soft deep breaths, until he’s fast asleep. Jisung thinks he over did it, but he can’t be blamed when Chan is literally a wet dream.

And isn’t that the funny part? Jisung thinks that Chan is his brightness he seemed to have lost as he grew up. Chan, the sweetest person he’s met, so resilient, so strong, fierce and so full of love.

He falls asleep to the sound of the waves with Chan’s soft breathing. Feeling the rise and fall of his chest, his warm skin pressed against him.

Jisung compliments Chan on his outfits. Jisung didn’t know he had a particular color he favored, but seeing Chan in all sorts of blue, it seems that blue has become one of his favorite colors.

Chan in blue seems softer, warmer – precious.

Chan tilts his head when Jisung stares at him, scanning his form and the clothes he got for him. And true to his word, Chan wore the expensive clothes he got him. Despite the small frown noticing the brand, but then he seems to have given up and had kissed him on the cheek with a small murmur of ‘thank you’.

“I guess, I’m just not used to having expensive items” Chan says shyly, pinching his ear in his nervousness.

Jisung can understand that, he reaches to grasp his hand. Chan gives him a tentative smile.

“I promise to not over do it, yeah?” Jisung can compromise, “but Channie, don’t ever think that you don’t deserve any of this. Anything I can give you, it’s not to throw it out there that I have money, I just feel like you deserve this and more” Jisung says, squeezing his hand.

“I’m grateful, Jisung-ah, really, I just … I guess it’s more of a tendency to stick to what I know and can afford.” Chan says, a small smile on his lips.

“Hmm, of course, I can understand that. Tell me if it’s too much, yeah?” Jisung says. Chan nods, a flush on his cheeks. Jisung finds the barely noticeable freckles on the bridge of his nose that look like little stars around his eyes, thanks to the sun exposure earlier, cute.

“The clothes are really comfortable though and they feel nice” Chan says then, running a hand down the button up over a simple yet expensive tank top branded along with dress shorts of the same color.

Jisung reaches out and presses his hand to Chan’s chest, feeling his warm skin beneath the clothes. Chan stutters when Jisung slips his hand inside.

“Hm, they feel nice indeed” Jisung says, teasing. Chan huffs and grasp his hand, giving him a flat stare.

“Can’t let my guard down with you” Chan says, as if exasperated before he shakes his head. Jisung grins with a wink.

“What time is the reservation?” Chan asks. Clearly embarrassed yet trying so hard to push through this. Jisung pulls his hand out, earning a sigh before reaching for Chan’s hand.

“We have time, but we can head over now,” he says in response after checking the hour.

Jisung is used to board meetings, being the center of attention, he often had major conferences. Meeting those two people makes him a bit nervous, if he were to admit. After all, they are parents of his bright little star.

“Chan-ssi,” he starts, but Chan stutters momentarily before he continues, “hey, baby” he says quieter, catching Chan’s attention then.

Chan takes in a breath with a shudder, Jisung can hear it over the speaker. Jisung had received a message from Chan earlier, though unable to answer right away. Unfortunately, there was an error one of his associates had made that required his full attention, making him mutter under his breath in annoyance at the situation and his associate.

Jisung called Chan as soon as he could, gathering the gifts he planned for the meet up along with a bouquet of sunflowers, to let him know he was on his way.

“God, Jisung-ah” Chan breaths and Jisung frowns, hearing his voice waver, “I’m sorry, I know your work is important. I know” Chan says, getting quieter.

“Chan-ssi” Jisung starts again once his phone connects to Bluetooth already on his way.

Chan sniffles, not because he wants to cry, but more because he’s starting to get stressed out – Jisung has been able to understand certain quirks of him.

“Hey, baby, I’ll be there in 10 minutes, yeah. I’ll apologize to your parents once I arrive, so just breath for me, okay?” Jisung sooths him as best as he can over the phone.

“Sungie … I … I don’t mean to pressure you, if you want we can cancel …” Chan trails off.

“Nonsense, Chan-ssi. I’m just around the corner” Jsiung says, maybe going a bit faster than regulated.

Jisung arrives in less than 10 minutes. He makes his way inside the restaurant and instantly finds Chan, because to Jisung, he’s his beacon.

Chan notices him first, he stands up making his parents look at him. Chan seems as if in a trance and Jisung sees how nervous he is. When Chan reaches him, Jisung instantly feels the need to touch; to comfort.

“You made it” Chan says breathlessly, Jisung smiles at him, unable to stop himself from leaning to him to place a kiss on his forehead.

“Of course I did, Chan-ssi,” he says, briefly glancing at the couple, who was already standing by. Still, Jisung presents Chan the bouquet of sunflowers first. Chan stares at them, eyes wide at the size of it.

“Chan-ssi, I thought of you when I saw the display” Jisung says, taking in the flustered cheeks as Chan closes his eyes to dip his head and feel the soft petals of them. Beautiful.

Chan takes in a deep breath and looks at Jisung, eyes locked with his as if they can read each other’s mind. Jisung wants to hold him.

“Mom, this is Han Jisung, my … my boyfriend I spoke to you about” Chan introduces, gripping the bouquet. Jisung bows in return to them and presents the gifts, a bottle of expensive wine and the box full of fruits.

“Mr. and Mrs. Bang” he greets again, bowing as he apologized for being late. The couple introduces themselves, thanking Jisung for the gifts motioning for them to sit – almost robotic. Jisung has a feeling that this won’t go as Chan wants it to, but of how it possibly would. Not with how Chan’s father eyed him up and down.

Jisung leads Chan to his side, curling his arm around his waist and pulls the chair for him. He can understand Chan being in a bit of a daze. He squeezes his waist and Chan blinks, setting the bouquet down next to him.

When they make it back to town, Jisung hears Chan’s phone ping as the latter rests his head on his shoulders. Chan sighs and pulls out his phone, grumbling as he opens the message.

“Channie-hyung, please come back, Minho-ssi is torturing me ☹ ️”

Chan huffs a laugh as he shows Jisung the message, despite Jisung having read it unintentional as Chan had his phone before him. They had opted to go straight to Jisung’s place to rest once more before Chan left for the day.

“Sometimes I feel like a single overworked parent” Chan sighs, with a shake of his head as he pads a response.

“Channie, baby, not single anymore, maybe a little overworked” Jisung says, making Chan pause and glance up at him, “ you’d make an incredible parent” Jisung murmurs as he presses his lips to Chan’s temple. Chan gapes at him.

“Jisung-ah” Chan says, pulling away momentarily before he straddles him. Jisung hums in appreciation as he lets his hands set on Chan’s hips. Chan curls his arms around him, keeping him in place. Jisung looks at him and Chan grins with mischief.

Jisung loves the sparkles in Chan’s eyes. Chan leans to press his lips to Jisung’s ears.

“Can you imagine if there was a chance for us to have babies?” Chan whispers into his ear and Jisung’s brain short circuits, hands gripping tight. Chan grunts but presses down, nipping at Jisung’s earlobe.

“Who’d have thought you had this kink, Sungie” Chan says teasingly. Jisung huffs and moves his hands to cup Chan’s butt, squeezing the plush and firm flesh through his jeans.

Chan stutters on his next words as Jisung presses their fronts together. Jisung leans to bite at Chan’s shoulder and then pressing his lips to Chan’s ear.

“Chan-ssi, I already have a hard time letting you go. Don’t make it impossible, because if you continue like this, we’ll be locked in this place until it takes” he teases, sucking on his ear.

Chan gasps and grips his shirt tight, grounding his hips to Jisung’s.

“because I know, you’d look fucking amazing if I were to impregnate you” he continues to tease him, Chan squirms on his lap. So maybe he wasn’t the only one. He grins when Chan whimpers as Jisung slides his hand to his front.

Suffice to say, Chan leaves later than anticipated. Jisung hears Minho grumbling over the phone as he is walking towards Chan from the bathroom, having a quick shower after Chan banned him from following him.

“I swear, Channie, if you made me wait here for an hour just so you can have your ass defiled!”

Jisung sees Chan flustered as he hurries to cancel the speaker. Jisung smirks as he presses Chan against the boudoir, causing Chan to gasp and glare at him through the mirror.

 He grabs the phone and grins at Chan.

“Wouldn’t you like to know” Jisung takes his phone and Minho practically screeches into his ear as he hangs up.

Jisung laughs as he pulls away and gathers Chan into his arms.

“Sungie, don’t tease him too much” Chan says, shaking his head. Jisung shrugs as he lets Chan go and gathers Chan’s jacket.

“Come, before he decides to try and come up here” Jisung says, knowing well enough only Chan can come here, and if he is the one to decide to bring his friends up. Jisung doesn’t mind if he does, as long as they respect their room and space.

“Did you know, Minho knows boxing?” Chan asks.

“Are you threatening me?” Jisung asks with a snort. Chan giggles, but shakes his head as they get on the elevator.

“No, Sungie, he missed his class today because he came to pick me up” Chan huffs. Jisung hums, grasping Chan’s hand, “so we decided to go shopping for an outfit, he said might as well do something fun” Chan says as they exit the elevator to the main lobby and out the main door.

They see Minho leaning against his car, arms crossed, sunglasses on. Jisung snorts at the display of nonchalance.

“About time you let him escape your perverted claws” Minho huffs as he pulls Chan to his side. Chan giggles again, greeting Minho. Jisung didn’t let go of his hand though and tugged Chan back in.

“Bye, Chan-ssi,” he says as he presses a quick kiss to his lips, eying Minho as the latter makes a disgusting face. Just to torture him, Jisung murmurs something and Chan gasps, flushing.

“Hey, hey, no funny business in front of me. Do you want me to go blind or deaf?” Minho screeches, once again snatching Chan back protectively.

“Jisung-ah, I’ll call you” Chan says over Minho’s shoulder, a snicker falling past his lips. Jisung smirks and winks at him. Minho huffs and opens the passenger’s side door to push Chan inside.

“Bye, Han Jisung, I hope you’re happy with how much you’ve defiled him” Minho says as Chan lowers the window, making him yelp and blush in embarrassment.

“Please, you don’t even know the half of it. His vo– “

“LALALALA! I can’t hear you!” Minho covers his ears as he goes around to the driver’s side. Chan huffs as Jisung winks at him again and reaches to touch his cheek.

“Call me when you get home, baby” he says. Minho makes a gagging noise before he starts the car and soon takes off.

Jisung feels the penetrating gaze of Chan’s father, eyeing him as he takes in his attire, his pose and hears him speak.

“You’re awfully young to not be in college” Chan’s mother says, earning a nod from her husband.

“Mom” Chan says, as if embarrassed, reaching down to grasp Jisung’s hand that was around his waist.

“Chan, let your mother speak, it’s a fact that he is young and it’s curious that he doesn’t have an education other than out of the country” Chan’s father says.

“Dad please, Jisung is really smart, and he has his own business”

“Own business? A Flower shop, maybe?” he says, eying the bouquet, “perhaps a fruit stand? Chan, you’re going to a paid internship in astrophysics, yet you seem to find time to spend with him? You should be preparing for that. Wasting your time now when you can find someone with the same education as you. Someone worth your time”

“I don’t know if he’s talked to you about them,” Minho starts, absentmindedly swirling his drink with the straw. He looks up as he sees Chan in line to order more drinks and snacks.

Jisung raises a brow in question.

“Maybe he’s not ready yet, but when I met Chan he was the smallest thing. His parents sent him here to stay with his grandparents because there was one boy Chan was really close with back home” Jisung hums in thought.

“Best of friends. You’d think that because that country is more open minded, that his parents would be as well, but it started a whole chain of events” Minho says, glancing towards Chan, a sad smile on his lips.

“Chan was just so … pure, I guess if I want to put it that way. Always thinking people had the best intentions” Minho says, a huff leaving his lips, “we were in the same school and I’d often hear people talk about this ‘naïve’ kid that gave them whatever they wanted. His money, clothes, food – those people often bragged that all they had to do was play the ‘feel sorry for me’ card and Channie folded.”

Jisung knitted his brows. Minho sighs.

“I finally met him one night as he was leaving late – having offered to clean the area of one of his other classmates because they had asked him crying, that  they needed to leave for a family thing” Minho scoffs.

‘He’s so gullible, I sometimes pity him.’ they would say, and that night I had seen them leaving the school grounds, laughing about it. I had stayed late for a dance practice. So I saw him shivering as he left the building – turned out he had given his jacket to an upper classmate that ‘asked’ for it, but was a little rough.

“In a way, I guess, maybe I did pity him at the beginning, but as I got to know him, I understood. Chan isn’t dumb or gullible. There are people that are just rotten inside and out. So I made a promise to myself that from then on, I’ll watch over him. Nowadays, he seems to rely on you more.” Minho grumbles, crossing his arms as he leans back, eying Jisung.

Jisung doesn’t say anything, but feels Chan tense.

“No. Don’t talk about him like that” Chan whispers, lowering his eyes when his father turned his steely gaze to him.

“We came to see you walk for your graduation and we even made adjustments to our flights because you insisted on us meeting him.” His mother says, “Channie, dear, you still have more time to find someone. Focus on your career for now.”

“Besides that, how can you be so sure you’ll be stable financially, with someone like him. Focus on yourself,” his father says.

“Stop talking about him like that” Chan says. Raising his head and Jisung glances his way, seeing frustrated tears on the corner of his eyes, biting his lip to stop the sudden waver of his voice.

“Don’t act like a child, Chan, we didn’t raise you like this. You seem to have lost manners as of late, you weren’t like this before – ”

“I …m –”

“Chan-ssi” Jisung starts, reaching with his other hand to cup Chan’s jaw, tilting his head to look at him, his other hand keeping a firm hold on his waist. He gives him a reassuring smile, thumbing the tear that slides down his cheek. Chan looks so vulnerable and so sad, it makes his insides rage, but he knows how it can end.

Chan leans to hide his frustrated tears against the hallow of Jisung’s throat.

“It’s okay, baby, you’re okay. I’m okay” Jisung murmurs and Chan shakes his head, gripping his hand tight.

“Stop acting like a child, Chan.” His father repeats and Jisung had enough.

“I think you’ve said more than enough” Jisung says, unable to stop the anger seeping into his tone. He turns to stare at them, narrowing his eyes.

“Please, if you were not around, Chan wouldn’t be acting like this. He’d be at home, studying until the day of his graduation”

“What do you take him for?” Jisung asks, annoyed.

“Not someone acting like a spoiled brat. We provided him for his college education despite us wanting him to come home and study close by. Do you think we had the luxury to do that? No, we didn’t but we did it because he insisted”

Jisung laughs without humor before he speaks.

“Oh, is that what this is all about? Money? All that matters is money, right?” He asks, feeling Chan tense further.

“Well, his parents are surely not the best for him to depend on for moral support. They would literally send him no more the $100 for every month of food supply to his grandparents. They were already old in age and didn’t have much other than what they could incur from their small food stand. It’s a small town and business was not exactly thriving”

“The world revolves around money. That’s why we allowed him to do it. At the end of the day, he will find a way to pay it back” Chan’s father said and Jisung gritted his teeth as Chan let out a soft gasp.

“Chan was excited of you visiting for his special day. Worked so hard to have everything completed before your arrival to spend all his time with you. He saved all he could from his job to rent that place you’re staying at and to have enough money to pay for his apartment and provide you with outings out of his own pocket.” Jisung says, and Chan tenses, raising his head to look at Jisung, eyes wide.

Jisung smiled at him knowingly, cradling his face.

“It’s the least he could do after all this time he spent depending on us”  he heard, making him snort.

“I feel sorry for you because you don’t realize how grateful you should be to have such a devoted and loving son. Despite the insecurities you’ve instilled in him.” Jisung says, he takes in a deep breath and reigns in the anger, seeing how Chan was becoming even more upset.

“I’m sorry, Chan-ssi,” he says, leaning to nuzzle his cheek, offering comfort and to gain calmness from having him close.

“Sungie … you knew?” Chan asks instead.

Jisung huffs a laugh, looking back into his eyes, “of course, Chan-ssi, you often mumble to yourself. You are always running around, worried about your hours despite being so busy.” Jisung says.

“Was it that obvious?” Chan asks, now focused on Jisung, as if he forgot his parents were there.

“Chan-ssi, you’re my focus. Of course I noticed. You worried me sometimes because you worked twice as hard.” Jisung murmurs.

“I didn’t realize” Chan says, eyes wide and filled with wonder. It was better than to see them full of sadness and doubt.

“Chan-ssi, tell me, baby. At this moment, is this what you want?” Jisung asks, studying Chan’s features.

Chan glances to his parents, currently his mother trying to sooth his father. Jisung can hear them talking, but his focus stays on Chan.

“They’re my parents, Sungie” Chan says, a small sad smile adorning his lips that doesn’t quite reach his eyes, “but I don’t feel like I can be around them right now” Chan says.

Jisung darts his eyes on Chan’s face, checking his facial expression, his eyes, his mouth, currently sporting a frown, as the smile quickly vanished.

“Tell me what you need, Chan-ssi” Chan stared back at him, biting his lip before he closed his eyes and leaned to whisper into his ear.

“Take me away from here” he says, shaking as if he was making every effort to decide and Jisung can sympathize. They are still his parents and despite it all, Chan still respects them to a certain level.

“Okay, Channie. Whatever you need, whatever you want to do, I’ll support you.” Jisung says with conviction. Chan gives a jerky nod.

“Then the day of his high school graduation, he didn’t show up, because he was in the hospital, his grandfather had had a heart attack that morning and passed away that same afternoon.”

Jisung could understand more of Chan’s relationship with his parents, or lack thereof.

“His parents sent money for the funeral, but left him to deal with everything else. His grandmother wasn’t doing so great and he carried that burden of making sure everything was set in place”

Jisung was right, Chan’s parents weren’t merely distant, but dismissive of not only Chan himself, but of his mental and emotional state from such a young age.

Jisung looks back to Chan, the latter tilting his head curiously when he catches Jisung’s eyes. Jisung stares at him, seeing a brightness in him even more. Chan bites his lip as he focuses back on the glass displaying the pastries, snacks and sandwiches.

“You want to know something else?” Minho asks, Jisung feels like he’ll tell him anyway, “that night that he met you, it was the first time he smiled so brightly. He had taken time off work after his grandmother passed. He had taken at most a week to get everything ready for her service and burial, but his boss – knowing how Chan was made him take more time off. He paid him, but half the usual because while he was nice, Chan still didn’t work during that time. So he spent all his savings on that. He wanted to move out closer to school, but because of it, it was put on hold.” Minho sighs and stretches, leaning back to rest against the chair.

Jisung remembers Chan’s smile, bright and beautiful. He never would have known how sad he was on the inside.

“Chan told me he met you then. He had this sparkle in his eyes. I refused to believe you were up to any good” Minho huffs, eying him before he shakes his head. Jisung is not even surprised.

“So I hid your business card. I couldn’t just let you step in and toy with him.” Minho says, looking at his nails and then back at Jisung, “So after seeing him feeling more down, I gave him the card back, but not before I searched you and surprise, surprise, you weren’t a balding 40+ year old man with an ego of having money.” Minho snickers, as if he can imagine a balding 40 year old man.

Jisung gives him a deadpan stare.

“Anyway, Changbin – as you may know, is also very protective of him. He agreed to stalk you with me. God, that man is insufferable” Minho grumbles.

Jisung really has a hard time with those two.

“Lo and behold, he gave up by the second date, saying that it was boring.”

Jisung realizes something, “that’s when you decided to blantly invade our space”

Minho grins, mischief bright in his eyes, “Hide in the most obvious way” he says gleefully. Jisung rolls his eyes.

Jisung hears dark murmurs and dismissive tone. He looks back to Chan’s parents. Chan’s father seemed to be even more annoyed and angry.

“We’ll be leaving sooner than expected. Please, enjoy the meal, it’s been taken care of. You don’t have to spend a dime, since Chan paid for it in advance.” Jisung announces as he motions for Chan to rise. The latter stands up and darts his eyes to them, before he lowers his head.

“You ungrateful brat” Chan flinches at that, and it irritates Jisung to no end. He grits his teeth and glares at the man.

“Don’t address him. You’ve yet to gain the right to do so” he says, grasping Chan’s hand to lead him out.

“You think this place is worth enough for all the money we paid for your schooling? You really are an ungrateful child” his father hisses.

Jisung stops in his tracks, looks at Chan, the latter already giving him pleading eyes.

“I’m sorry, Chan-ssi” he says before he walks back to slam his hand on the table. He leans in and glares at the man.

“Don’t worry about the money. I’ll write you a check of every single cent for his education and then some, because honestly, it seems like you need it more than him.” Jisung hisses

Chan’s father stares at him and then laughs in his face.

“You’ve no idea how much it is. You probably don’t even have enough to survive and you’re playing hero for him”

“Jisung-ah” Chan calls to him. Jisung smirks as he straightens up.

“Even if I stay with nothing, Chan will always be my priority” he says, walking back to Chan and holding his hand.

“Chan-ssi, want to see the stars tonight?” he asks, leading Chan out. Chan seems hesitant and glances back to his parents. Jisung waits for him when Chan stops and walks back to them.

“I knew you would behave” his father says, too pleased. Jisung sees Chan pick up the bouquet and bows to his parents without saying anything and walking back to Jisung.

“I almost forgot about them” he says to Jisung, holding them close. Jisung grasps his hand as they exit the restaurant.

“I can always buy you a whole field of them” Jisung declares. Chan glances at him.

“Please don’t” he says, with a laugh, but it’s not as happy as his usual laugh. Jisung grins as he opens the door for him and soon gets on himself. He’s buckling his belt, but for some reason he looks up only to see Chan’s mother making her way to the car. Chan, the prodigal son that he is, lowers the window.

“Christopher, don’t behave like this. Your father was busy with work and placed everything on hold for this trip.” She says, wringing her hands together.

Chan lowers his gaze as if ashamed and then looks at the flowers before looking at Jisung, and Jisung can only offer his support.

“I’m sorry, mom. Right now, I don’t think I can be in the same space.” Chan finally says, tightening his hold on the bouquet as if holding it against him as a shield.

“Christopher, your father said if you don’t come back and apologize for your behavior we will not attend the ceremony” she says, “ is that what you want?” she asks, effectively placing the blame on Chan for their behavior.

Jisung sees Chan bite his bottom lip, a strangled noise in the back of his throat. Jisung reaches over and grasps his hand.

“Chan-ssi” Jisung starts, Chan looks at him and has tears pooling in his eyes. Jisung reaches his other hand to cup his cheek, “this is a big event in your life. It’s yours. Only yours. You worked hard to get here. Everything is thanks to your efforts. Your achievements, they’re all yours. You did everything yourself.” Jisung declares, unintentionally glaring at Chan’s mother.

“You guys are so serious” Chan says as he walks back with a tray of sandwiches and pastries along with drinks.

Jisung notices how Minho looks at Chan. Really sees it for the first time.

“We’re talking about serious business here, Channie” Minho says, a grin on his lips. Jisung stares at him.

“Oh, do they have pudding?”

“Hmm, yes actually, sorry Min, I forgot to get one” He says, reaching for his pocket to pull out money. Jisung beats him to it and hands over his card.

“I’m gonna buy everything!” Minho declares as he waves the card around as he walks away. Chan gives Jisung a nervous laugh.

“I’ll give you money for it, Jisung-ah” Chan says, but Jisung shakes his head.

“I’m sure it’ll be okay, besides, I saw the display earlier, they only had one pudding left since the other one was taken by the person after you.” Jisung grins and Chan giggles at that, glancing towards Minho.

“Gosh, I hope the cashier survives that interaction” Chan says. Jisung looks up and catches Minho looking at them, specially Chan as he waits in line.

“I’m sure he’ll be fine”

Best friends.

“Chan-ssi?” Jisung asks as he sees Chan shaking his drink.

“Hmm?”

“Just out of curiosity, were you and Minho ever together? Like more than friends?” he asks, reaching to tuck a strand of hair behind his ear.

Chan gives him a quizzical look, then glances momentarily to Minho. He shakes his head and gives him a funny look.

“That would be weird, we’re best friends” Chan declares. Jisung feels sorry for the other man, but he leans in and cups his face with both hands and thumbs gently at the apples of his cheeks. Chan looks at him curiously.

“Of course, it was a silly question” he says, leaning in and placing a chaste kiss on his lips. Chan nods as Jisung pulls back. He lifts his drink and offers for Jisung to try it.

 “God, you guys are disgusting” Minho says, making Chan jump “I’m gonna have to gouge my eyes out”

Chan snickers as Jisung rolls his eyes. 

“Here! Your money is useless to me if the thing I want to buy is not available” Minho huffs as he hands Jisung his card back. Jisung looks at Chan and the latter bites his lip to stop his laugh.

“The world conspires against me, Channie, I don’t need you joining it” Minho sighs dramatically.

“Of course” Chan says solemnly.

“I hear karma is working overtime for you” Jisung says, Minho glares at him.

“Bye you demon that has defiled my pure innocent Chan.” Minho says and walks closer to Chan. Chan looks up at him and grins. Minho huffs and wraps his arms around his neck.

“Channie, my cutie pie” Minho starts and Chan guffaws, “don’t cry child, for I must go and torture a certain buff dude” he says dramatically.

“Okay” Chan says brightly.

“No, don’t cry, I shall leave thee, but I will snatch you back to safety one day”

Jisung rolls his eyes, he feels sorry for the people around them.

“Your Oscar awaits for you, away from us” Jisung says and Chan squeaks, holding his laugh.

“Fine. Whatever. You don’t deserve my acting anyway” he says, pointing a finger at Jisung, making Jisung mutter under his breath.

“I’m sorry” Chan finally says, barely above a whisper as he looks Jisung in the eyes. Jisung continues to hold him, be as encouraging as he can because despite it, Chan will decide.

Chan sucks in a deep breath before he turns to his mother.

“I’m sorry, mom. I really wish that at least this once, dad would try to be there for me” Chan says, but slowly loses his determination when he sees his mother’s facial expressions.

“Christopher” she says, as if disappointed. Jisung stares at her. She seems to hesitate but walks closer to the car.

“I … you know how your father is, just apologize to him.” She says.

“No, mom. I wish I could but he’s been so disrespectful, not to me, I don’t care, I’m used to it. But Jisung made every effort to be here and meet you. He wanted to meet you guys. He’s so busy with his own company and worked probably just as hard as dad did to make it happen and be here” Chan says, sitting up straight.

Jisung had gone to pick up Chan from the campus and saw Minho surrounded by a small group.

Minho, knowingly had waved to his group of people and knocked on the window. Jisung pretended to not notice until Minho knocked twice as hard.

“Are you insane? I will make you pay if you break it” Jisung threatens, as soon as he can once the window is down.

Minho shrugs.

“Why is Chan still friends with you? Can’t imagine his parents like you” Jisung says.

“Auntie tolerates me because I’ve known Chan the longest. I’m literally his best friend and I’ve visited their home in Australia.” Minho mentioned.

Minho glances back towards a building and Jisung sees Chan walking down the steps.

“They’re very particular about appearances, you know” Minho says, as if bored with him already, he turns and walks away. Noticing Chan, Minho starts walking to meet him. As if he knows Chan’s schedule by heart. The latter laughs when Minho says something before he walks to Jisung.

He gets in the car and turns to look at him once he has the seat belt on.  Jisung leans to press a kiss on his cheek, “Chan-ssi, have you had lunch yet?” he asks as he pulls back. Chan’s stomach chooses that moment to grumble.

Chan practically squeaks as he covers his stomach, embarrassed.

Jisung really wants to give him everything.

“Christopher, don’t choose him over your own parents. Don’t be ungrateful” she finally says. Jisung knew it was only a matter of time. She may show a bit more sympathy and emotion, but she will follow her spouse’s choices in the end.

Chan sighs as if resigned. He looks ahead for a moment, before he looks towards Jisung again.

“Sungie,” Chan says, eyes sad. Jisung hums, as he touches Chan’s shoulder, “Jisung-ah … I … I’m afraid” Chan whispers to him, “I’m scared of the choices I am forced to make” he says, closing his eyes.

“Chan-ssi, whatever you decide, always know that I’ll support you without question,” he says, once again reaching to caress his cheek and tilt his head with his forefinger under his chin. Chan’s lips tremble before he gives a jerky nod, “just know, that at the end of the day, you have two best friends that despite their childish behavior they will be there for you and you’ll have me on your side.” He says.

Chan blinks as if he just realized something, before his nose scrunches as if he were to cry.

“Hey! You’re Chan’s sugar daddy” Changbin says, Minho spills his water he just drank. He glares at Changbin.

Chan practically chocked on his own drink as Jisung gives him a deadpan stare.

It was the one time they had gotten together, to celebrate Chan’s birthday.

“what? We’re not calling him that?” Changbin asks, a mischievous grin shown. Minho pinches him and hurriedly tugs him to sit down.

“you’re embarrassing us” Minho hisses. Chan was still coughing as Jisung patted his back to assist.

“You literally said, ‘we’re going to dinner with Chan’s sugar daddy to celebrate his birthday’” Changbin says gleefully.

“Chan-ssi, I feel like maybe you’re regretting letting them out into society on your day” Jisung says. Chan snorts as he finally gains his breath.

“If I hear you got him something fancy again, you’ll officially be locked in as that, that’s all I’m saying” Changbin says, snickering when Chan glares at him.

Suffice to say, Jisung had literally just told Chan about the cabin.

Chan, as if resigned, nodded again and pressed the flowers to Jisung’s chest. He held them as Chan got off the car to stand before his mother. He placed them in the back seat and looked towards them once again.

“Channie” she says and Jisung finds that twisted how she tries to appease him by calling him that. While before she was calling his full name, and she reaches to him.

Chan allows her to touch his cheek.

“Come and apologize.” She says, and Chan shakes his head.

“No, mom. For the first time I want to stand on my decision. Jisung has been nothing but supportive of me without asking anything in return. He’s been so encouraging and loving. He’s given me so much” Chan says.

“Channie, sweetheart, it’s a fling. Once you leave college for your internship, you’ll be too busy. Wait a couple of years, you’ll find someone new” she says, trying to sooth him.

Chan scoffs, takes a step back.

“I wish you would understand. I love him. I want to be with him” Chan says. Jisung feels his breath hitch at that confession.

“Channie” she says, as if she’s talking to a child.

“Bye mom. I love you and dad, it may be selfish on my part because I’ve decided that even if I want you there, if you can’t make an effort for me this time around, I won’t beg you like before.” He says.

Jisung can imagine a younger Chan, trying to please his parents, wanting attention and being neglected.

“I don’t think your father will agree” she says, crossing her arms, effectively closing in on herself when Chan attempted to give her a hug.

“I’m sorry you and him feel this way” he says, walking back to the car before stopping again, “the invitations are there, if you guys decide to go. I’ll be going home with Jisung. You guys can use the house for the remaining days of your stay, but I’ll stay with him from now on” Chan says, getting in the car and locking the door, as if placing a final barrier between them.

“Jisung-ah, can we please go” Chan says, shaking. His hands gripping his shirt.

“Okay, Chan-ssi” Jisung says as he starts the car and grasp one of his hands to offer comfort. Chan glances at him and then at their hands.

Chan doesn’t say anything through the ride to the cabin, but every once in a while he squeezes Jisung’s hand.

They make it to the cabin and Jisung let’s Chan go in first. Calling a restaurant to place a meal order for a later time. For now, they’ll have time to unpack the situation, time for Chan to process this.

When he walks into the cabin, he sees Chan had headed out back and finds him on the hammock, legs dangling. He walks over and stands close by, but giving him space at the same time, making Chan look at him.

“Sungie … lay with me?” Chan asks, eyes pleading as he gets off and grasps his hand. Jisung wants to let him know, he doesn’t ever have to ask him, Jisung will do anything for him.

“Of course, baby” he says, arranging them on the hammock until Chan sighs and lays on top of him, ear pressed to Jisung’s chest.

“I always wondered if I was doing something wrong, it just always seemed like I was always in the wrong” Chan says quietly.

Jisung caresses his nape, running fingers through styled tresses. Chan had taken the time to look presentable – gorgeous in the black silk outfit with olive green tank top. Another set of clothing Jisung bought for him.

He hums in response, knowing Chan wanted to vent.

Chan speaks about his past, the hardships he struggled with. Confused why his parents had sent him away to a whole different country.

“My friend, that’s all he was, I never thought of him as anything but, we were just kids” Chan says, raising his hand to trace his fingers over the embroidery of Jisung’s shirt.

“Chan-ssi,” Jisung starts tucking strands of hair behind Chan’s ear. The latter looks up, tilting his head curiously, “is this what has been bothering you? My meeting with your parents, you didn’t want them to know” Chan closes his eyes, as if ashamed.

“My parents aren’t particularly subtle where money is involved. They’re very expressive about how they feel for those less fortunate, but I didn’t think anything about it until I moved with my grandparents” Chan pauses.

“In reality, maybe because of it, I became stubborn about it. When my grandfather passed away, I had to take over the finances for my grandma. She was old in age and her vision wasn’t good, grandpa was often the one that managed the household and I would help any way I could. I realized that my parents didn’t really help my grandparents. It made me sick thinking about it. I wondered how much of a burden I was to them, yet they never said or acted anything but kind” Chan reminisces.

Jisung can imagine a younger Chan. He can see how guilty Chan felt. Trying to make it up to them.

He pauses and raises his hand, staring at the ring.  He looks up at Jisung, as if he’s studying him. He twirls the ring with his thumb, seeing the stars glimmer with the little diamonds in the center.

“Sungie … I want to stay with you. I want to live with you … if your offer still stands” Chan says, blinking and looking at Jisung once more.

“Yes, Chan-ssi, of course.” Jisung says without hesitation.

“I just … I know you own that place and it makes me feel like I’ll be leeching off of you … I don’t want to be a burden to you as well” Chan says quietly, squeezing his eyes shut.

Jisung hates how Chan sees himself as a burden.

He sighs almost sadly and cradles Chan’s jaw, thumbing at his cheek. Chan blinks his eyes open, staring at him with pleading eyes.

“Chan-ssi, baby, you’ll never be a burden. I wish you can understand that you are a very loving, caring and beautiful person. I’m sure your grandparents would be proud of you til this day. You seemed to have gained their work ethic, their kindness and dedication.” Jisung says, leaning to press a kiss on his forehead. Chan hiccups and grips Jisung’s shirt.

“I wish I could have met you back then, to support you from the beginning. Channie, I will give you anything you need. So just stay with me and be yourself. Have a space you can call your own and don’t worry so much about monetary means. I won’t think less of you” Jisung declares, brushing stray tears from his cheeks.

Chan sniffles and shakes in his hold, burying his face deeper against his neck. Jisung tries to offer as much comfort to him. Waiting for Chan to let out everything, holding him close.

“I’m not jealous, okay. I realized that Chan would never see me as anything but a friend. I’ve no intention of stepping in between, not when Chan is smiling like he’s discovered a new galaxy.” Minho says, eying Jisung.

Jisung had walked into Chan’s apartment and saw Minho straddling Changbin as the latter tried to keep a pudding away from him.

“You ate the other two alreadyyyy!!!” Changbin yells.

Chan sighed as he followed behind once he closed the door. He shook his head and motions for Jisung to have a seat.

“Let me finish getting ready, okay, Sungie. I just got home from work like an hour ago and have been dealing with this” he says, gesturing to the other two.

“Take your time, Chan-ssi.” Jisung says, hearing Changbin screeching and seeing Minho lifting Changbin’s shirt, making the latter drop the pudding. Minho gave a triumphant noise as he scrambled to pick it up.

“I promise I won’t be long” Chan hurries to the room, probably rushing to not leave Jisung with them for long.

“Fine! I’m gonna go buy some more” Changbin grumbles, but then as he’s walking by he winks at Jisung when he shows him a wallet.

“YA! Better bring me some extra you thief!” Minho yells, making Jisung cringe at that. Changbin guffaws and rushes out the door.

Jisung is curious of Minho’s devotion to Chan. So he casually brings it up, but not that much because Minho laughs and raises a brow at him.

“Trust me, Chan wouldn’t be this happy with me. I’ve seen how he looks at you and how you look at him.” Minho says, glancing towards Chan’s bedroom.

“I can tell you are absolutely head over heels for him. You look at him like he hung the stars and the moon. Frankly, it’s disgusting” Minho says, making a gagging sound.

Jisung, for the first time, feels a warmth throughout his body. Not embarrassed at the truth, but that Minho can see it. Minho laughs for a moment, before he sobers up, his expression deadly serious.

He stands to walk closer, leans down and hover over Jisung, “However, if you in any way hurt him, I will be your worst nightmare. Chan is sensitive and he can easily become sad if he doesn’t grasp the situation, but if you hurt him, trust that I will come for you” Minho hisses, locking eyes with him.

Jisung doesn’t back down and nods.

“Good,” Minho says, face softening as he pulls away, “now, about the message you sent earlier, I’ll ask Changbin to help me find the passport and drop it off to you later tonight” he says, going to sit on the sofa, carefully opening his pudding.

Jisung scoffs at the change of demeanor, but is distracted by Chan as the latter comes out with a simple white t-shirt and black cargo jeans. His hair slightly curly as it’s still drying.

“It’s too quiet, I got a little worried” Chan says, rubbing the back of his neck as he walks out into the living room. He looks around and sees Minho innocently eating his pudding.

“Changbin stole my wallet, Channie” Minho says. Jisung snorts and Chan sighs, before he goes to Jisung.

“I’m ready, Jisung-ah” Chan says, padding his pockets to make sure everything was there.

“Great, let’s go.” He says, standing up to grasp Chan’s hand and lead him out. Chan calls to Minho saying goodnight.

Chan cries himself to sleep. Jisung hates how much Chan has held back for so long. He runs his fingers through Chan’s hair, touching his temple and Chan snuggles closer as his grips on Jisung’s shirt tightens.

“Channie, you’ve been so strong and worked so hard and you’ve held on for so long on your own,” Jisung whispers into the crown of his head, “I’ll prove myself and make you smile until you realize how much of a great, sweet person you are” he murmurs.

He hums quietly as he continues to hold him. In reality, Jisung knows that Chan, because of the many years of self deprecation and constant badgering and treatment of his parents – treating him as an unruly, ungrateful child, it will take time for Chan to accept a new reality, but Jisung will take his time and show him.

Jisung feels Chan stir, breaths becoming uneven as he begins to gain consciousness. Jisung waits patiently, petting his hair, as Chan begins to stir. It’s a little cooler now – early evening, and snuggled against him, Chan had been asleep for at least 3 hours. Jisung had dozed off for a bit, after making sure Chan was completely unconscious.

Chan mumbles something as he opens his eyes, reaching to rub the sleep off.

“Hmm, Jisung-ah” Chan mumbles, letting his hand fall to rest over Jisung’s ribs.

“Hi, baby” Jisung responds, still caressing his hair. Chan sighs and leans more to his touch for another minute “I pre-ordered a meal for 6 pm. It should be arriving soon.” Jisung says. Chan blinks a couple of times, eyes slightly swollen, face blotchy.

Jisung smiles a bit sadly at the residue of his sadness.

“Can I shower quickly … wait, nevermind, I don’t have clothes here” he says, a small pout forming.

Jisung coughs and then squeezes Chan’s waist, catching his attention.

“Actually, there is a full closet of new clothes for you, Chan-ssi” he says. Chan sighs and leans down to bite at Jisung’s chest.

Jisung grunts at that, making Chan laugh in return – Jisung can listen to his laughter forever.

Jisung had ordered from Chan’s favorite Italian restaurant. Jisung enjoys seeing Chan’s eyes light up at the sight of the meal once he came down the stairs from his shower.

Jisung can’t help but admire Chan’s beauty. The baby blue button down from the 2^nd button down to the middle, exposing his trim toned waist, to his powdery blue shorts reaching just above his knee. The clothes is so simple but Chan looks amazing in anything, if Jisung is honest.

Chan practically squeals in delight as he sits down across from Jisung.

“Oh my gosh, I’ve been so busy and with a tight budget, I haven’t been able to go here. Thank you, Sungie” Chan says, eyes bright.

Jisung motions for Chan to partake on the meal first once he serves them. Jisung wants to touch him, but despite Chan not saying it, he unconsciously put a distance. Chan might still be processing the whole situation.

Jisung had heard Chan’s phone ring as soon as Chan stepped into the shower. Jisung saw the caller ID.

He didn’t want to meddle more than needed, but he couldn’t stop himself. It had been Chan’s father, and as soon as he picked up, he heard the condescending tone.

“Forget about us showing up to the graduation, we’ll be leaving tonight and until you stop this childish behavior, you can forget about contacting us”

Jisung stared at Chan, seeing his thoughtful expression as he ate. He hesitates and then thinks it’s better to wait. Chan hasn’t eaten all day, if he recalls Chan being so nervous in the morning.

“This is delicious. Ah, I missed this” Chan sighs after taking a drink.

“Chan-ssi, I was thinking,” Jisung starts, pausing and then smiling at Chan as the latter gives him his full attention, “about what you said earlier regarding moving in” he says. Chan blinks and then nods slowly.

“Is it not okay anymore?” Chan asks quietly, bowing his head.

Jisung blinks at that, brows furrowing. He stands to walk to Chan, pulling the chair next to him making the latter look up. Jisung reaches to touch Chan’s wrist.

“Of course it is, Channie. I meant to say that, with you moving in, I wanted you to decide if you wanted to change anything. As you know, I have a room being used as an office. The loft area is pretty spacious, so if there is anything you need or want to change, don’t hesitate to do so, okay?”

Chan bites his lip and nods slowly.

“I mean it, okay? It’ll be your home and I want you to feel comfortable and for it to feel as your own”

Chan leans to rest his head on Jisung’s shoulder.

“Thank you, Jisung-ah” he murmurs.

They finished the meal and then Jisung sets up the pile of covers in front of the fireplace – a television above it, the underfloor heating system keeping the house warm enough. Chan walks back into the living room with arms full of pints of ice cream and some other snacks he found in the cupboard.

He seems giddy as he feels warmth under his feet.

With a pile of pillows against the edge of the sofa, Chan rests his head against Jisung’s chest, cradled in Jisung’s arms.

They started watching a random series as Chan seemingly enjoyed the ice cream, offering a bite to Jisung every once in a while.

Jisung hummed as he pet Chan’s head, mumbling about random parts of the show once he focused back on it.

“Jisung-ah,” Chan speaks softly, Jisung hums as he tugs him closer.

“I know my parents are not going to come to the ceremony … it’s kind of sad, to be honest. I wish they would make an effort, you know? I tried so hard to be their perfect son they wanted me to be, but it seems that at the end of the day, it’s not enough” Chan says, a small sad smile.

“I don’t think I want to waste so much energy on this … and Sungie, I know you paid for that restaurant bill. I was wondering why the restaurant seemed kind of empty”

Jisung bit his lip as he hides his smile.

“You can’t be reserving all the hotels, or restaurants – be more mindful of your money, please” Chan huffs. Jisung feels a bit reprimanded but then reaches to tilt Chan’s chin up with his forefinger.

“Channie, baby,” he says, leaning in to press lips against plush ones, “I really, really, want to give you everything and anything, don’t tie my hands like that” he murmurs, lightly running his finger on the outline of Chan’s jaw.

Chan grumbles against his lips, swiping his tongue against them. He pulls back a little and stares back into Jisung’s eyes, “I’ll say it again, Sungie. I don’t care for expensive items. We could literally just go to the park and have a picnic and I’ll be happy because it’s with you”

Jisung squeezes him closer, pecking his lips.

“Of course I know that, at least every once in a while, I will spoil you, okay?” Jisung proposes. Chan sighs as if resigned, but nods.

“Chan-ssi … did you mean it?” Jisung asks, making eye contact. Chan tilts his head curiously.

Jisung huffs a laugh but then instead of asking, he leans down and kisses Chan, licking at his lips to have Chan open for him. Chan’s mouth goes pliant, mewling when Jisung swipes their tongues together. He kisses him deeper, sucking on his tongue, tasting the sweetness of the ice cream, rocky road. Chan allows Jisung to invade his mouth, nip at his lips, soothing it with a swipe of tongue.

He pulls away, breathing hard as Chan. The latter has a deep flush on his cheek, lips red and swollen with eyes dilated.

“I love you, Chan” Jisung says, leaning to kiss him chastely. Chan pushes at his shoulder, making Jisung pause. Chan opens and closes his mouth, then he cups Jisung’s face, bringing it closer.

“I meant it, Sungie. I love you too” Chan whispers, as if he only wanted Jisung to hear it, his lips stretched to a smile. Jisung sees the dimple and can’t stop himself as he thumbs the dimple. He looks at him, still decorated with a few noticeable freckles. His skin soft, glowing.

Jisung meets him on a random Tuesday. Well, meets is a stretch of the word, he sees him walking towards him, distracted.

Jisung tilts his head curiously before he looks at his watch. He was actually on his way to the Café to meet Chan and probably Minho – that leech that keeps being attached at Chan’s hip.

He casually walks into his path, causing them to bump into each other by the small alley. Jisung hums as he takes the opportunity to grab a fistful of shirt as he drags him to slam him against the brick wall. The latter yelps and starts struggling only to stop when Jisung slams him again. Jisung is not as buff as a lot of men, not as tall, but he does have a routine that keeps him in shape and lithe.

“Well, well, well, lucky me” he says, no humor in his tone.

“the fuck man” he curses, gripping Jisung’s wrist to pull away, “who the fuck –”

“I will warn you this one time,” Jisung hisses as he leans close, making the latter jerk back, “try and get close to Chan one more time, and I will make your life a living hell” Jisung hisses into his ear.

“who the fuck are you? Chan? That loser? All he is, is a good fuck, nothing more” he says and Jisung hears ringing in his ears. The blatant disrespect.

“I won’t repeat myself. Try and come close to him and you will regret it until the end of your pathetic life” Jisung mutters darkly, making the latter grunt as he slams him against the wall again. He looks at him with disdain and leaves him there.

“Jisung, your knuckles are bleeding” Chan says worried, grabbing the napkin and gently holding Jisung’s hand, wetting the napkin with their water and gently dab the scraped knuckles – probably happened then.

“Oh, I didn’t even notice” Jsiung says, shrugging his shoulder. Chan frowns momentarily as he continues his wound care.

“I’m surprised he’s not here” Jisung says, looking around the Café. This time, Chan giggles as he picks up his phone and shows the GPS being off.

“I needed a break” Chan says, gently caressing Jisung’s hand. Jisung huffs a laugh, shaking his head.

“I’d be surprised if he doesn’t call for a search party” Jisung says in return.

“Oh my gosh, that reminds me of the time I forgot my phone at the apartment and when I went to an exhibition, I forgot to let him know. I came home to him sitting in my room, in the dark. It was traumatizing.” Chan says, shuddering.

Jisung snorts at that, because he can see Minho blowing up his phone.

“It’s funny now, but when I checked my phone history, he had called me like at least a hundred times. So now, I usually let him know where I’ll be.” Chan sighs, realizing that maybe Minho might pop up at any time.

“Hmm, okay,” Jisung stands up and tugs Chan up, leading him out the door.

“Where are we going?” Chan asks, but follows.

“You wanted to go to the new conservation exhibit, yeah?” Chan pauses, surprised.

“Wait, I thought tickets were sold out until next year”

Jisung stops, waits for Chan to be close before he leans in, “I pulled some strings” he murmurs into his ear. Chan breathes in and then presses his forehead to the latter’s shoulder.

Chan huffs as he pulls back.

“You know what, this time, I’m just going to be grateful” Chan says, pecking Jisung’s cheek.

“Hmm, but listen, since it’s a VIP reservation, you can have the experience all to yourself for the day” Jisung says casually.

Chan gasps and squeezes Jisung’s hand.

When they arrive at the exhibition, they have someone waiting for them. Jisung nods at them, a young man making his way down the stairs.

“You should be grateful I’m the one hosting this exhibition” he says. Jisung rolls his eyes and motions for Chan to get closer.

“Chan-ssi, this is Hwang Hyunjin, he’s –”

“No way! You’re one of the curators” Chan says, wringing his hands together. Jisung reaches over to grasp his hand to prevent Chan from hurting himself.

“Why, yes! Wow, someone actually knows me” Hyunjin says, taking the last steps and stands before Chan. Jisung mutters something under his breath, tugging Chan to him.

Chan stares at Hyunjin in awe.

“Nice to meet you,” Hyunjin says, making Chan flustered as he nods and then reaches out to shake his hand, “it’s Chan.”

Hyunjin stops in his tracks and looks at Jisung, a funny look on his face before a mischievous grin takes over.

“Oh, Chan, I see. Finally get the honor to meet you in person” Hyunjin says. Chan tilts his head curiously. Hyunjin eyes him, then laughs.

“I gotta admit, Jisung here did not really describe how much of a cutie you are in real life” Hyunjin says, winking as Chan stutters and becomes more flustered.

“Yeah, well, we’re here to see the exhibit, not for you to sweep him off his feet” Jisung huffs. Chan blinks in confusion before he reaches over to hold Jisung by the arm.

“Fine. Whatever. Seungmin is gonna have a field day” Hyunjin says, a smirk thrown at Jisung.

“Can you begin the tour” Jisung deadpans. And rather than pulling strings, Hyunjin had asked him to come around for the opening, but he had zero interest, he had other things to keep busy. But now, he can gift Chan with this.

He remembered because Seungmin sent him a message that Hyunjin will be staying in an extended stay hotel and they should meet up.

Jisung makes eye contact with Minho as the latter parks across from him. He sees Minho reaching into the car and pulls a big bouquet of lilies and he saw Changbin stepping out of the car from the passenger side, laughing at something Minho said and he too reaching for his own bouquet, orchids and lilies.

They’re both dressed casual yet formal. White ironed button ups with black dress pants along with a tie.

“Han Jisung” Minho says, stepping closer followed by Changbin.

“Hey man, thanks for letting us know about the invitations.” Changbin says with a nod.

Jisung shrugs, in reality, Jisung had told Chan about the phone call when they arrived to Jisung’s place the day after. Chan had looked devastated, had clenched his hand and buried his face against Jisung’s neck.

“I guess … in the end, I had hoped they would attempt to attend” Chan says, “I don’t know if I’m sad or just disappointed” Chan murmurs.

“It’s okay to be both, Chan. You feel what you feel. Honestly, my parents aren’t picture perfect and they have kept their distance from me when they found out I preferred men over women. So whatever you feel, it’s only you that can decide.” Jisung confesses. Chan raises his head and presses his nose to Jisung’s cheek.

“I guess, we are the unruly children defying our parents, huh?” Chan attempts at humor. Jisung laughs softly at that, touching Chan’s jaw.

“Well, if it led me to you, then it’s good that I strayed” Jisung says, placing a kiss on the corner of Chan’s mouth. Chan hums in agreement, smiling against Jisung’s lips.

“Instead of wasting those invitations, I’ll ask the other two if they want to go. They gave them up because I had invited my parents. I felt bad, but they said that it was fine, that they could celebrate with me after.” Chan says fondly.

“They really care about you, Chan. I’m sure they’ll accept without hesitation, after all, they really love you” Jisung says.

Chan’s laugh is watery, “I don’t know how I would have made it this far without them” Chan says softly. Jisung hums as he thumbs at his under eye.

“Please don’t tell them that. Channie, promise me, they’ll be unbearable to you.” Jisung says, earning a giggle from Chan.

“I was against it, you guys are too loud.” Jisung grumbles.

“Ya! Just because you are Chan’s man, doesn’t mean you can slander us!” Minho yells, earning stares. Jisung rubs at his temple

 “Hey, give us some credit. Today, we will behave … for the ceremony, anyway. It’s about Chan today” Changbin says, nudging Minho. The latter glares at Jisung and then reaches over to squeeze Changbin’s butt. Changbin twitches, earning a laugh from Minho.

“As soon as the ceremony ends, forget about having Chan with you for the rest of the night. He’s mine!” Minho declares. Jisung sighs almost exasperated.

“Can we go inside already, the ceremony should start soon” Jisung says as he reaches into his car to pull out a bouquet of roses, pink, red, peach and a red one in the middle.

“way to call us poor” Minho grumbles as he sees it. Jisung blinks as he looks at his bouquet.

“What are you talking about? These are only 300 roses. I wanted to get him more, but he would probably be more upset than happy about it.” Jisung says, had reluctantly brought one bouquet.

Minho gives him a murderous look before he looks at Changbin, “just 300, he says”  Minho mutters and Changbin shakes his head.

“Man, Chan really has his work cut out for him, huh?” Changbin asks in return. Minho nods as he walks along. Jisung shakes his head and followed after them.

Chan looks gorgeous in the royal blue suit. Accents of red and gold. His hair down and make up to accentuate his features – you’re welcome, Minho had said.

Chan walks and Minho and Changbin cheer loudly, warning glares from the proctors. Chan laughs behind his hand and Jisung can see the redness his ears take.

Jisung shakes his head and smiles when he catches Chan’s eyes. Jisung winks at him and Chan hides his face behind his certificate.

Jisung recalls back to a couple days before the graduation.

Jisung is finishing with the last button when Chan walks into the room, making eye contact with him through the mirror, phone in hand.

“Chan-ssi” he says, and inexplicably can tell he’s upset.

Chan bites his bottom lip, looks away.

“My dad called me while you were in the shower” he says. Jisung sighs as he turns to him, walking up to him and reaching out. Chan flinches away, then as if realizing it, he looks at Jisung, tears brimming his eyes.

“Jisung-ah, why … he didn’t deserve it” Chan whispers.

Jisung reaches out again, not mad at him. He just wants to comfort him and this time Chan is not letting him.

“Why, Jisung?!”

“Because I don’t want him to hold it over you. Chan, you’re the one that did everything. All your hard work. Everything is yours. You don’t owe him anything”

“I never did! My god, Jisung, he never paid for anything other than the first semester of my first year. After that, I got my job and paid everything myself with the help of scholarship I earned with the community service I did” Chan sobs harder.

“Chan-ssi”

“I’m not – I’m not a charity case” Chan whispers. He presses the heels of his palms against his eyes.

“My father never did anything without throwing it in my face. If he helped at all it was just when I would call him begging him to help me. I hated it. I hated it so much because of how he is, but I tried to understand him. I tried so hard to understand why he was like that with me, but always so giving and loving with my siblings” Chan sobs harder and Jisung clenches his hands.

“He always overplayed his role as someone that did a lot. I didn’t think you’d believe him when he said they allowed me to and paid for it” Chan shudders, “They told me I needed to stay here. That I didn’t have a place in their home. That I was just a burden, just like I was to my grandparents … that they … they hurt financially because of me and they only put up with me because I was just a lost cause” Chan whispers, lowering his hands.

Jisung reaches out again and touches him carefully. He reached to cup his face and hold him steady.

Chan sucks in a breath, “I’m not … Jisung-ah, you said you loved me” Jisung feels like a knife stabbing his chest when Chan looks at him with all the hurt he seems to have caused, “I need to know that you don’t see me like he does, as a charity case” he whispers.

“Chan-ssi” he says, and Chan lets out a choked sob, “I’m sorry. Of course I don’t see you as that, I never did and I never will. I’m sorry if my actions hurt you, truly.” Jisung says, brows furrowing.

“I can ask him to give it back. Jisung-ah … he doesn’t deserve that money. He doesn’t. If he doesn’t, I’ll beg him on my knees” Chan cries as Jisung presses him against his chest.

Jisung scoffs and holds him tighter.

“No, Chan” he says firmly.

“But Jisung-ah” Chan whispers, biting his lip … “he doesn’t care. I don’t want him leeching off of you, just because of this. This is why I didn’t want them to know. Jisung, don’t play into his game”

Jisung sighs and leads Chan to sit on the bed, he wipes at his tears and looks him in the eyes.

“He won’t ask for more. Not from you nor from me. Chan-ssi, I’m not an idiot. I had your father sign a contract about this exchange, I wrote and revised the contract myself.”

Chan looks at him, blinking in surprise. Jisung smiles softly at him, cupping his face once more and placing a chaste kiss on his lips. Chan shudders and presses his forehead to Jisung’s, closing his eyes briefly.

“Don’t do something stupid like this again, Han Jisung” Chan threatens.

“Of course, Chan-ssi.”

“I’m telling Minho … and Changbin too” Chan hisses, reaching over to grip Jisung’s thigh. He grunts at the sting. Jisung sighs, knowing how that will go.

Suffice to say, Chan ended up staying with Minho that night and he received a call from Minho in the middle of the night

“You’re on thin fucking ice, Han Jisung”

“Does Chan know you’re threatening me?”

“He’s asleep right now”

“Well, better not disturb him then. I’ll pick him up tomorrow by noon”

He heard Minho hissing before he grumbled as Chan seemed to have stirred awake.

“Channie, go back to sleep”

“Minho-ya, stop!” Chan snorts and then fully on laughter follows.

Jisung waits for a minute or two and then hangs up. Chan calls him the next morning saying that he will wait for him at the Café.

As they exit the stadium, Jisung and the other two wait under a tree. They notice Chan talking to a group of people, smiling and hugging each other, congratulations going around.

“Ah, Channie will be missed on campus. Changbin-ah, starting next semester, you are my minion” Minho declares.

“I’m gonna transfer, thanks for the offer though” Changbin deadpans. Minho stares at him until Changbin says he’s joking.

It’s not long before Chan finally heads to them. Jisung looks at the bouquet, assessing everything.

“Sungie!” Chan calls to him, and Jisung has enough time to look up and drop the bouquet as Chan rushes to him.

“Oomph” Jisung grunts as he catches Chan. Chan laughs mischievously into his ear. Jisung huffs as he holds him close, arms tight around him.

“Chan-ssi” He murmurs, looking up to see Chan looking at him, smile wide, dimples deep. Jisung wants to hide him away. Keep his happiness never-ending.

“Congratulations, baby” he whispers. Chan’s eyes glow as he leans down and kiss his lips.

“God, if I new we’d be third wheeling, I’d have gouge my eyes out” Minho grumbles. Chan laughs against Jisung’s lips before he pulls away. Jisung slowly lets him down and Chan moves to hug them in turn.

Jisung shakes his head when Minho pulls Chan,  followed by Changbin as they tease Chan. Jisung picks up the bouquet and makes sure everything is in tact.

“These are so pretty” Chan gushes as the two give them their bouquets. Chan smells the flowers and laughs at the messages written.

He looks at Jisung, almost shyly as he looks at the roses. He walks closer and bites his lip.

“That’s a lot of roses, Jisung-ah” Chan says softly, ears pink.

Jisung smiles as he presents them to him. Chan opens his arms and Jisung presses them to him. He grabs the other two bouquets to allow Chan space.

Chan blushes as he leans to smell them. He looks curious at the red rose and looks up at Jisung. Jisung raises a brow and a tip of the chin. Chan reaches over to the middle rose and notices it’s a fake one. Tilting his head, he pulls it out and sees the opening. It’s a red rose velvet box.

“Jisung …” Chan gasps, eyes wide and earning the attention of the other two. They lean in and see it as well.

It’s a black tungsten ring. Inside the design is hues of blue, black, purple, gold and silver – a version of the galaxy. Chan looks back at Jisung, tears on the brim of his eyes.

“Hey, no crying, you’ll ruin your make up” Minho warns. He helps Chan hold the bouquet as Changbin quietly takes the other two from Jisung.

Chan steps closer and Jisung gently takes the rose box, picking up the ring. He grasp Chan’s left hand and sooths his thumb over his knuckles. Chan bites his lip when Jisung slides the galactic ring next to the diamond star one he gifted him before.

“How many times are you gonna propose to him?” Minho asks. Chan’s eyes widened and then looks back and forth between Jisung and Minho, confused he looks towards Changbin.

“I mean … Channie-hyung, you must have realized what a promise ring is” Changbin says, holding back a smile.

Chan looks back at Jisung.

Jisung sighs, “It doesn’t have to mean that, Chan-ssi.”

“But is it?” Chan asks, breathless.

Jisung glances at the other two. Minho looks slightly guilty and then steps back, scratching his cheek. He mumbles something and grabs Changbin’s arm to tug him away and give them space.

Jisung looks back to Chan.

“Eventually, Chan-ssi, if you want to. If you decide to –”

“Yes. Jisung-ah, yes.” Chan says firmly, reaching to touch Jisung’s cheek. He smiles wide and wraps his arms around his neck. Jisung holds him back as Chan leans in and presses a lingering kiss on his lips.

They eventually make it to the reception. Jisung, after having an earful of complaints that he just want to keep Chan for himself – he relented his hold on Chan. Minho had taken him that instant to hold him close.

Chan laughed as they settled in the restaurant. Changbin having reserved it ahead of time.

“It’s not fancy, but it’s super popular during this time – their jjajangmyeon is the best.” 

Jisung admits their food is delicious and he finds it more telling because Chan is absolutely delighted. His eyes bright as he enjoys his time with his friends. Chan tucks a strand of hair behind his ear, glancing at Jisung.

“I’m going the restroom” Minho says.

Chan hums and then scoots over to be next to Jisung.

“Jisung-ah,” Chan grabs his hand and looks at their twined fingers. He smiles as he sees the glimmer of gold in the ring then looks at Jisung, “I have the universe in my hands” Chan says, a giggle leaves his lips and Jisung hears Changbin groan but continues eating.

Jisung laughs at that, bringing his hand to kiss his knuckles, “No, Chan-ssi, I see the universe in your eyes” he grins at Chan’s flustered expression.

“Please, one day, I ask for one day to spare my eyes and ears from all these PDA” Jisung hears Minho complain. 

Chan pouts and then attempts to move to make space for Minho again, but Jisung refused and tugged him closer.

“If you would just stop showing up at our dates, you’d have more than a day” Jisung responds back. Minho looks offended.

“Never! You already hog him all the time.” Minho says.

“When I decided I wanted to date Chan, I didn’t decide to date you too” Jisung huffs, squeezing Chan’s waist. This earns a giggle from Chan, and an incredulous look from Changbin.

Jisung had told the other two that they would need to change and then head over to the after party.

Minho had grumbled, but Chan had walked to him and hugged him. He held him for a while and if Jisung wasn’t wrong, was talking to him into his ear.

Minho buried his face against his neck, holding him close. Chan glanced back at Jisung and then continued to hold Minho.

“I’m sure Minho has told you about Chan’s family history, if Chan hasn’t done so already” Changbin says.

Jisung looks at him then and nods.

“Good, then there’s nothing more to say. Just be careful with him, okay. I’m not saying he’s fragile. He’s a very resilient person, but he’s already been through enough. He may try to act tough and pretend he’s perfectly fine, but keep in mind, that Chan would prefer to pretend everything is okay, if only to not burden the other person” Changbin says as he watches the other two.

“I know” Jisung responds. Because he does know, and it guts him every time because there are times that he thinks about it all day.

“Don’t be so harsh to Minho either. He’s not had it easy as he makes it seem, and when he met Chan, he also found a purpose. I guess in a way, Chan saved Minho. So to Minho, Chan is the most important person in his life.” Changbin smirks when Jisung blinks surprised.

“Just be a little nicer, after all, he can make a living hell if he wanted to, the only reason he holds back is because Chan is basically your shield.” Changbin laughs when he sees the turn of events as Minho reaches to squeeze Chan butt, making the latter let out a yelp.

“Well, guess the sentimental moment is over” Changbin says, making his way to them.

Jisung sees Changbin walk to them and hug them in a group, hears them laugh, he finds it unexpectedly cute, but he won’t tell them that.

Jisung was waiting patiently for Chan, the latter, as if realizing the time, pulled away. He gave them another hug each.

“I’ll text you when we’re on our way” Chan says before turning to walk towards Jisung.

Jisung looks at him making his way before extending his hand. Chan grins and runs the last steps, grasping Jisung’s hand.

Jisung looks at him and Chan is staring at him, a curious glint in his eyes. Jisung hums in question and Chan grins.

“Jisung-ah … if kisses were stars, I’d give you the entire galaxy every time I see you” Chan says, grinning more so.

Jisung halts momentarily and then shakes his head with a small laugh, holding his hand tighter. Chan giggles at his response.

“Chan-ssi” he says, making Chan look at him, “did you know, that if you were a vegetable, you’d be a cute-cumber”

Chan gapes at him, before he bursts out in laughter.

“Oh my god! You did not just say that!” he squeals, delighted.

Jisung laughs as Chan leans to his side and laughs in his ear.

“You started it” Jisung says. Chan laughs again.

“You started it all, Chan” Jisung murmurs, making Chan look at him. Jisung cups his jaw and presses a kiss to his lips. Chan smiles into his kiss and Jisung feels as if he was swallowing a ray of sunshine.