Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Did you arrived yet?” Johnny asked through the phone and Mark nodded as if his brother could see it.

“Yeah I landed a few minutes ago. Where are you though?” Mark looked around in the arrivals area looking for his brother. “ I can’t find you this airport is a mess.” The younger said as he kept walking and looking around until he saw someone waving like a mad man.

“MARK! HERE!” His older brother shouted and Mark never felt more embarrassed in his life than he did right now.

Despite the embarrassment he ran to his brother and in a second he was engulfed by the older in a warm embrace.

“I missed you Markie! Im so glad you’re finally here!”

Mark didn’t answer but he hugged his brother a little tighter. He was glad he was finally out of that house too and was able to come stay with his brother.

Mark’s childhood wasn’t easy. His parents didn’t wanted him, he was an “accident” as some may say and that really took a toll on his life.

For as long as he remembers his parents never really cared about him or his interests or anything that made him happy,  they only cared about his brother. Mark would get a good grade in one test but his brother was better because he had had a even better grade than him. If both him and his brother had a school trip only Johnny would be able to go because they wouldn’t pay for both of them. No new clothes or toys because everything that didn’t fit johnny anymore would be alright for him to wear. And don’t even start on birthday parties. While Johnny was a social butterfly and had lots of friends Mark was lucky if anyone in his class even spared a glance at him so his birthdays were spent at home with his parents and his brother and a little cake they managed to buy from the convenience store.

It’s not like his parents didn’t have money because they had enough money to support the family. It’s just that… he wasn’t wanted and he knew that, he could see it and understand why. His brother was much better than him at everything, school, sports, making friends… Maybe he should have tried harder.

Even though his parents showered his brother with the love and affection Mark never received, his brother made sure to always include his little brother in everything that he could. Johnny wasn’t stupid and he noticed the way his parents would treat his brother and even though he tried talking to his parents about it, it didn’t worked. Johnny started working as soon as he was 16 in a convenience store as a part time so he could get some money for himself even though his parents were against it because he should focus on his studies instead (their words not his) but he managed both working and studying easily.

When Johnny got his first paycheque he bought Mark an mp3. The younger was so excited he couldn’t even find the words to thank his brother “It’s not my birthday” “I know… but I also know how much you like music so now you can listen everywhere you go. I’ll help you put on some songs from the computer later.” It was a second hand mp3 full of scratches and the rewind button didn’t worked but Mark didn’t care about that. A year later, after Johnny asked his boss for more hours of work , he finally bought Mark the guitar he’s been eyeing every time they pass through the music store in their way to the arcade “Johnny this must have cost a fortune!” “When you’re a famous musician you can pay me back”.

A year after that Johnny was leaving for New York. He managed to save enough money for a one way flight and a room in a house with two other guys. Fourteen year old Mark was devastated to hear the news, he cried and begged his brother to take him with him and not leave him behind and even though that broke Johnny’s heart,  he wasn’t able to support them both when even he didn’t knew how he was going to get through on a long term.

So he left,  but with a promise to his brother to help him as soon as he could and that he would be waiting for him in New York.

Mark was left heartbroken, the only person that liked and cared for him left and he was alone. But he never forgot his older brother promise so he stared to study as much as he could. He needed to get good grades to get to a good university in New York. He also needed money but that was the hard part. He tried to find some easy jobs like babysitting, petsitting even tutoring little kids but it wasn’t easy for adults to trust a kid with another kid but Mark never gave up and eventually he started tutoring some kids (after showing their parents his grades that he worked so hard for) much younger than him. He managed to get some money that he kept inside the his wardrobe inside a box in a corner so his parents wouldn’t find out.

At sixteen Mark finally got his real job at a music record store. He loved it there and the payment was very  good taking into account the amount of work he had. He didn’t do much there just clean up the store, help the customers (he even recommended some music to them if he was feeling good that day) and that was basically it. His boss was a really cool guy that liked Mark the second he entered the store so when Mark asked him if it was ok to miss some days because of his exams he was very happy to send him home to study.

He aced his exams as expected after all the hard work and finally sent his application to a bunch of universities (most of them in New York) and he waited and waited and waited until finally he was accepted into his first choice. Major in music in the University of New York.

As soon as he received the email he called Johnny crying and laughing while his brother panicked on the other side of the line “Mark are you ok?! What is going on? Mark please tell me what’s wrong!” “I-I got i-in! i-i’m going to New York! Johnny i’m l-leaving!”.

And here he was at last right next to his brother again. In a new city full of opportunities ahead of him.

“Let’s go Taeyong is waiting in the car. He didn’t wanted to pay for parking. Says it’s too expensive so he stayed inside the car in case the cops show” Johnny explained while he helped mark with his bags.

“You got a car? You didn’t tell me!” Mark exclaimed excitedly “not mine! It’s Taeyong. He does some modelling gigs and he got a car. Which in my opinion it’s totally useless here since you pay for parking everywhere and the subway works just fine if you ignore the rats and the crackheads but once he decides he wants something he will get it” Mark said nothing and just nodded while walking to the car.

To say that he was nervous was an understatement, he was terrified. Don’t get him wrong he was super happy to be there next to his big brother, out of that house and far away from his parents but having close to none social skills made him anxious just thinking about living with a total stranger in a college dorm. Johnny did offer him to share the bedroom he was living in but mark declined. The apartment where his brother lived was small and there was already two other guys living there he didn’t want to bother his brother or his house mates although they were very nice to mark (talked to them on the phone a bunch of times since they were curious about Johnny’s little brother) he didn’t want to impose.

Once they got to the car Johnny got into the passenger sit and mark in the back seat. Taeyong turned around and smiled at mark “Hi Markie! I’m so happy you’re finally here! You’re sooo cute! Much cuter than your brother” Taeyong laughed and turned on the car driving them off from the airport. Mark laughed shyly at Taeyong’s remark and whispered a quiet hello to him. “Are you excited to go to uni? I’ve never been to university I gotta be honest I never wanted to go but i’m glad you got in Mark! You’re gonna have a blast there i’m sure! It’s a shame you won’t be staying with us but i’m sure your roommate will be great and maybe you’ll make a friend!” Taeyong kept on rambling and mark could only nod and laugh a little as some things he said. Johnny sometimes would turn around to look at him and send him a smile that made Mark feel a little more relaxed but the anxiety was still there.

Once they got to the apartment Johnny offered Mark the bathroom to take a shower if he wanted while Taeyong would prepare something to eat. The other housemate (Jaehyun was his name) was working and would only arrive later that evening. Mark went to the bathroom and took a quick shower, once he got out Taeyong had some sandwiches done and some juice “we don’t have a lot on our fridge since we’re not at home a lot but tell me if you need anything else! don’t be shy!” The black haired boy told Mark a little too serious and then smiled “Thank you Taeyong. This is more than enough. Thank you really!” Mark giggled a bit shy and started eating while his brother tried making some small talk “Johnny you really don’t have to do this. We talk everyday it’s normal if neither of us has updates”

“I know but I want to talk! I still can’t believe you’re here! Did they told you anything when you left?” His brother asked cautiously. “I left without saying goodbye. They were still asleep.” He took another bite of his sandwich “I mean they knew I would be leaving early today but of course they did not care. I don’t care either so that’s fine” he didn’t look at his brother or Taeyong, he wasn’t ashamed but he did not want to see the look of pity in their eyes so he just kept on eating and drinking his juice not realising how hungry he was until he started eating.

“Anyways! Enough of that talk! Tomorrow you’re going to move to your dorm! And meet your roommate! Are you excited?” Taeyong asked while moving seats and seating next to mark on the couch

“More like anxious. I can only hope they are ok. But we will see. I’m excited for the classes!” Mark exclaimed with excitement trying to change the subject of his roommate and Taeyong understood, or not but he didn’t asked again about the dorm or his future roommate.

Later that day Mark meet the third housemate, Jaehyun. He was a very calm and nice guy they talked for a bit about uni and he wished him good luck and went straight to bed.

“He’s not usually like this but he’s been getting a lot of work. He’s actually quite funny, in his own way I guess.” Johnny laughed “Anyways you should also sleep! Big day tomorrow! Let me know if you need anything ok? My room is right there” he pointed at a door and looked at mark again “i’m very glad you’re here Mark. I’m sorry i couldn’t bring you with me at the time.”

Mark smiles at his brother and pats his back “I know. And don’t be sorry. Im glad i’m here too!. Good night johnny “ he says while getting himself comfortably on the couch.

“Good night Markie” His brother whispered patting his head gently and leaving to his bedroom.

“Well this is it!” Johnny exclaimed patting Marks back “Remember that you can crash at ours anytime you want or need! I hope you don’t though that would be a bad sign but anyways don’t forget that!”

“Thanks but i’ll be fine. If not i’ll call you first before going to your house” Mark said giggling.

Johnny laughed and looked around once more. The room was ok. They had a private bathroom which was great, two beds two desks, two wardrobes… It was ok. He could decorate his part of the room, maybe, to make it more cozy. Maybe some posters and stickers or-

“Markie I have to go. Unfortunately I have work. You gonna be ok?” Johnny asked interrupting his thoughts.

“yeah man sure. I’ll call you tonight! Have a nice day!” mark smiled at his brother and the older gave him a hug, wished him good luck one last time and left closing the door behind him.

Mark started to unpack his bags, he didn’t had a lot of things but the sooner he would get those out of the suitcase the better.

He was so focused he didn’t even notice the door opening and a boy entering with two huge bags behind him.

“And who are you?”

Mark jumped a bit and looked at the boy. He was pretty but he seemed mad. Why was mark thinking that about a boy he didn’t even knew.

“Well? Are you just gonna stay there or are you gonna answer? Who are you?” the boy asked again and mark cleared his throat and gave him a small smile.

“I’m Mark! Y-your roommate” he extended his hand “nice to meet you!”

The boy looked at him, then at his hand and back to him again and scoffed.

“I don’t get it. I specifically asked for a room for myself! I don’t want a roommate!” exclaimed the boy ignoring Marks hand. He awkwardly put his hands inside his pockets and started to chew on his lips.

“C-can I at least know your name?” Mark almost whispered looking at the boy with wide eyes.

The other looked at him and rolled his eyes.

“I’m Donghyuck.”

Chapter Text

Donghyuck was an only child. Both of his parents were lawyers so they never spent a lot of time with Donghyuck as a child. Always too focused on their work and their careers, barely at home, they had no other option but leave Donghyuck with a nanny.

Of course little Donghyuck didn’t mind since his parents would give him toys all the time to distract him from the fact that they didn’t care for their child as they should.

But as Donghyuck got older he started to noticed how his classmates would tell stories of how they would go on little trips with their parents or how they would go to the cinema when a new movie came out or how his friends parents were always present for their birthdays and Donghyuck only had his nanny and some of his closest friends at his birthday parties.

As Donghyuck got older, his parents decided that it was a good idea to sign him for dance lessons and theatre classes. It’s not like they knew that their child had a passion for performing arts, they just thought that he was getting older so there was no use in having a nanny with him full time so they used the lessons as an excuse to keep him occupied and the nanny would only get him to the classes and bring him home.

His teachers called him a little prodigy. It was like he was born to be on stage. There wasn’t a single thing he wasn’t able to do it and his teachers made sure to praise him as much as they could. Donghyuck had never felt so happy to hear all the praises and compliments he never got to hear his entire life and that only made him want more. He continued to practice at home and after school every dance routine, every step he had to make on stage for the plays, every script, he knew all the lines by heart at one point. He tried to tell his parents little things that happened during the lessons but they were, as always, too busy for him.

 “That’s great Donghyuck but I really need to read this file right now ok? Why don’t you go practice your lines a bit more hm?” his mother would always say the same thing, with a smile, but never looking in her son’s direction.

There were times where Donghyuck would feel unmotivated and sad. Even if he didn’t showed, his best friend knew.

Jaemin and Donghyuck meet when they were sever years old. Jaemin moved to his city and by destiny they became neighbours. Being both extroverts they became friends easily.

Donghyuck would spend most of his free time at Jaemin’s house. He didn’t liked being at home even if his parents were there. He didn’t felt welcomed in his own house but at Jaemin’s was different. His house was cozy and warm and Donghyuck didn’t knew if it was because of the decoration or because of Jaemin’s mother that always made sure Donghyuck was well and comfortable. Jaemin’s parents would asked they both about school and would ask Donghyuck about his lessons and he would excitedly tell them everything that he learned or how anxious he was about a show.

As they got older they got closer and Jaemin started to understand his friend. Why he would spend so much time at his home (not that he complained, it was good having company of someone his age), why he didn’t talked about his parents as much as him or why he would invite him and his parents to his shows before even inviting his own parents (not that they would show up anyways).

Later, they went to high school together and Donghyuck signed for the drama club while Jaemin just focused on his studies since he wanted to go to medical school.

In high school they meet Jeno and Renjun, thanks to Jaemin since the boy was mesmerised by Jeno as soon as he saw him. Donghyuck didn’t understand why Jaemin was so obsessed with Jeno but since they were always together they eventually became friends. Renjun was chinese and had moved a year ago to their city so he still had some problems with communication but Donghyuck, Jaemin and Jeno were always patient with him and helped him as much as they could.

At sixteen Jaemin started to question his sexuality and Donghyuck noticed the change on his friend. The once outgoing and talkative boy, started to close himself off and didn’t want to hang out with the group as much as before, specially if Jeno was there. Eventually Jaemin confessed to Donghyuck what he’s been feeling and that night during one of their sleepovers Donghyuck cuddled his best friend, made sure to him that it didn’t matter if he liked boys or girls and that he would always be his friend, no matter what.

When Jaemin came out to his parents, Donghyuck was there, with his ear glued to the bedroom door trying to listen to the conversation that was happening in the living room but it was no use he couldn’t understand a thing so he sat on Jaemin’s bed, anxiously biting his nails with his eyes locked on the door, and when Jaemin came into the room in tears but with the biggest smile Donghyuck has ever seen on his face they hugged and Jaemin cried while laughing in his best friend arms. “they told me that it didn’t matter. They love me anyways” Donghyuck smiled as he heard his friend and hugged him a little tighter.

As time passed Donghyuck and Renjun noticed the change in their friend group. Jaemin and Jeno got closer and eventually started dating even though Jeno still wasn’t sure about his sexuality but he was sure he liked Jaemin, as more than a friend, so they decided to give it a try.

That year, during the summer, the group went on a trip to Jeno’s aunt house on the beach. There they meet Jeno’s cousin, Jisung.

Jisung was two years younger then all of them and even though he tried to act as grown up as the rest of the group, it was kinda of impossible since they would act like the boy was five years old that needed their full attention all the time (except for Jeno. He knew his cousin was not a baby, cute yes. But not a baby).

That summer, Donghyuck had his first kiss, with Renjun. during an awkward game of truth or dare that Jaemin wanted to play since none of them could sleep thanks to the hot weather. After that things got awkward between the two friends. Donghyuck never thought about boys that way but kissing Renjun, his friend that was also a boy, made him rethink things. He didn’t want things to be awkward between them so Donghyuck continued to act like it was nothing, just a kiss during a stupid game but when they came back from Jeno’s aunt house, Donghyuck texted Jaemin late at night asking him how did he knew he liked boys. He didn’t got a reply so he fell asleep but woke up the next morning with Jaemin knocking on his door.

Taking Jaemin’s advice, Donghyuck decided to talk with Renjun to sort things out and not making things even more awkward and he was relieved when sweet Renjun hugged him and told him that they were fine and nothing changed between them, that he had noticed Donghyuck’s change but decided to give him time to sort his thoughts and wait for the boy to bring the conversation up not wanting to push him or make him uncomfortable. Donghyuck hugged his friend and thanked him for being the kindest human being he knew.

Although his friendship with Renjun remained intact, Donghyuck still had doubts about himself. Did he liked boys? No way! I mean he did find some male actors and singers attractive but it’s not like he doesn’t have eyes. It was totally normal right? He told himself that he was not gay. There was no way. Just because he kissed a boy it’s not like he’s suddenly into boys. But the question was still there so, he took matters into his own hands and typed “Am I gay quiz” on Google. Ten minutes later he was staring at the screen of his computer biting his nails, “Bisexual” it’s the result of the first and only quiz he did. After some research online Donghyuck called Jaemin.

“I think I might be bisexual.”

“Ok. That’s… great! What made you come to that conclusion?”

“A quiz on google”

Jaemin stayed silent and Donghyuck had to check if he didn’t accidentally hang up the phone but a sigh from Jaemin was enough for the boy to understand that the call was still on going. “Come to my house later tonight and then we’ll talk.” Jaemin said before hanging up.

That night Donghyuck explained to Jaemin how he felt regarding liking boys and girls. It made sense to him (even though he knew that a quiz he had found on google wouldn’t be the answer to his problems). He wasn’t going to label himself yet since he wasn’t sure but he did felt relieved after talking with his best friend.

The last year of high school started and Donghyuck had already some universities in mind. He would of course follow the performative arts. He was born for it. Even though his parents had other ideas for his future but he didn’t care. They didn’t care then so why now? He would follow his dreams and do musical theatre. Donghyuck knew how to sing, he was born with a voice made to be heard and he was going to make a good use of it.

He couldn’t be just good, he needed to be perfect. So he practiced and practiced and practiced as much as he could or at least until Jaemin, Jeno and Renjun all came to his house in an excuse that they missed him (they did but they also wanted Donghyuck to rest).

“I got accepted. And i’m going to stay at the university dorms.” Donghyuck told his parents during dinner. A rare occasion where all of them were together.

“Why would you stay at the dorm? We can find you an apartment near the university!” exclaimed his mother looking at Donghyuck’s father waiting for back up.

“Your mother is right Donghyuck. We can pay for an apartment and maybe you cou-“

“I don’t want you to pay for an apartment! I want to be by myself! I just want to stay at the dorms. It’s close to the university and i’ll sign up for a single dormitory. I don’t want to share a room. Can you at least tell me congratulations? I got accepted! And you’re worried about me staying at the dorms!” Donghyuck exclaimed frustrated. “I thought you guys would be happy for me. This is what I want!”

“Donghyuck you have to understand… Being an actor… You never know if you’re gonna have a job. It’s not a secure path.” Donghyuck looked at his mother in disbelief “Besides, you have good grades you could go to law school! Like us! Wouldn’t that be lovely? A family of lawyers”

Donghyuck kept quiet listening to his mother and father giggling together. He blinked away the tears and kept quiet the rest of the dinner. When he excused himself and went to his bedroom he wished he could get out of that house as soon as possible and finally living the life that he wished. On stage with his friends watching him.

“I’m Donghyuck” He looked at Mark and took a deep breath. “What do you mean your my roommate? I signed for a single dorm room! Are you sure this is your room?”

“Uh I-I guess so… room 143? That’s what said on my papers… Maybe you’re in the wrong room?”

Donghyuck looked at his roommate… what was his name again? Whatever, didn’t matter.

“Look maybe you got yours wrong. Do you have your papers? We can check and I can help you if you need.” The said roommate offered and Donghyuck was still looking at him.

Taking another deep breath Donghyuck closed the door and walked to the available bed “I don’t need to check. This is my room i’m sure. You’re probably the one that’s wrong. So if I were you i would pack those things and leave.”  Donghyuck smirked at the boy and started unpacking his things.

When Donghyuck looked at the boy again he was still in the same position “Are you just gonna stand there?”

“Where am I supposed to go?” the boy asked softly “I’m sure this is my room. I’m sorry if they didn’t give you a single bedroom but I can’t just leave.”

“You can and you will. I’ll just have to talk to someone to sort this out and then you will be given a new room. So chop chop pack your things! It will be easier when it time to leave yeah?” Donghyuck faked a smile and continued to unpack his things.

Mark started to pack his things again with trembling hands. He could feel his anxiety rising. He should have said no and just stay there but Donghyuck was intimidating. Chewing on his lips, Mark continued to pack the little things he had but before he left the room he locked himself in the bathroom. As soon as the door locked he could heard Donghyuck grunting.

He shut his eyes and took some deep breaths. It’s ok. It’s probably just a misunderstanding. You got accepted. And this is for sure your room! So he’s the one that’s wrong. It’s ok, He kept on repeating that on his head like a mantra. Some time passed and he jumped a little when suddenly the door was shut with force.

Mark took another deep breath and unlocked the door, slowly opening and taking a peek into the room. It was empty. Thank God he thought.

“We are very sorry, but the single rooms were all filled. This is the only option.” The woman told Donghyuck while typing something on the computer and Donghyuck took, another, deep breath.

“No. I don’t think you understand. I need a single room! I won’t be sharing a room with some unknown guy! What if he’s a criminal or or… I don’t know something!” Donghyuck exclaimed but the only answer he got from the women was an eye roll “So? Are you gonna do anything about it? My parents are lawyers! I can just call them and tell them that I was denied a single room!”

“Look Mr….. Lee! As I said, I am terribly sorry but the single rooms were not available anymore when you made the request. I’m guessing you must be very happy to be in this university” the woman said smiling at him “So just enjoy! Maybe you two can be friends! Look at the bright side mister Lee!”

Donghyuck stood at the door to his (shared) dorm and sighed. This is embarrassing, he thought. He didn’t even remembered his roommate’s name.

“Oh what the hell” He whispered and opened the door.

His roommate was there, sitting on the bed with his legs crossed. He looked at Donghyuck with wide eyes and Donghyuck almost chuckled, he kinda looks like a kitten.

“Well… Looks like we’re gonna be roommates!” Donghyuck said faking excitement. “What was your name again?”

“Uuh i’m Mark. Mark Lee!”

Mark. What a stupid name did his parents not liked him? Why would you name your kid Mark? Donghyuck thought and sighed.

“I’m Donghyuck. Look let’s just get this straight. Just because we’re roommates doesn’t mean we’re gonna be friends ok? I already have my friends and I don’t need more. Ok? “ Donghyuck asked Mark but before he could get a reply he continued “ I really hope you’re not one of those guys that are super messy because I can’t stand that. I hope you don’t snore too because i’m a light sleeper and I need my beauty sleep. Don’t bring girls into the room or I will report you. I don’t have time for distractions and if you’re gonna be one you better go beg on your knees for another room because I won’t take that. Understood?”

Mark stood there speechless looking at Donghyuck.

This is going to be a long year…

Chapter Text

University life was hard. Mark understood that the hard way when just within the first week of classes he was already sleep deprived and stressed with classes. Being on a scholarship ment that he would need to study a lot to keep the good grades but he also needed a part time job for his expenses and even through New York is a big city, it also ment a lot of people which mean a lot of people looking for jobs as well.

He tried using his little free time to look for jobs but most of the places wanted someone with experience or someone that could work full time or someone that already had a degree.

Life was hard but Mark already knew that unfortunately. He would sometimes accept the money his brother gave him and of course he would not decline the invites to dinner that Taeyong made (even if it meant just eating with his brother and Taeyong inside his car at the parking lot of a McDonalds). But Mark being the thoughtful person he was didn’t liked the fact that his brother was spending money on him so he would found an excuse and decline the invites for dinner or for lunch a couple of times and would just focus on studying so he could forget how hungry he was.

But he never gave up on finding a job and eventually he got a one. He didn’t really knew how he got that job, one minute he’s buying a coffee to help him through the day and the next he’s shaking hands with a guy with a hello kitty pimple sticker on his face telling Mark how awesome it was to find someone to cover the night shifts.

His new workplace was close to his dormitory which was a bonus. It was a little coffee shop that recently opened so it was always pretty dead. Specially at night, but Mark didn’t mind since that meant he could still be at work and study while at it.

Mark discovered some days later after starting working there that the guy that hired him, Ten, wasn’t really the owner of the coffee shop but the boyfriend of the owner, Kun.

“Don’t worry Mark you can study as much as you want as long as you serve the customers when they come in. I won’t tell my boyfriend” Ten said while giving mark a playful wink and Mark just looked at him confused with his eyebrows knitted together.

“Why would you tell your boyfriend?”

“Well, he’s our boss” Ten said giggling at Marks shocked face.

Ten and Kun have been dating for some years and apparently Kun comes from a family with money. And like any other rich person that doesn’t know what to do with money (at least that’s what Mark thinks) he decided to open the coffee shop with his boyfriend and see how it would go. Mark kinda thinks that it’s crazy to simply think of opening a business just because you don’t know what to do with all the money you have but who is he to judge?

Either way, Mark liked working at the coffee shop. Ten and Kun both assured Mark that he could help himself with drinks as much as he wanted and if at the end of the day there were still any pastries left he could take them to his dorm and Mark almost cried when they told him that. The place was calm and the few people that went there during his late shift were always nice and never tried making small talk with him (which he was thankful). The money he received wasn’t a lot but it was enough for him to buy food and things for his classes if needed so Mark was more than happy to keep working there.

Life was finally looking good for Mark it was almost perfect if it wasn’t for the devil he had to share the dorm with. Yes, Devil because Mark is sure that it’s impossible for that boy to be normal and not the devil himself.

Mark tried, he really really tried to be friendly with Donghyuck but the other boy only made things difficult.

Everytime Mark tried to study, Donghyuck would always find a way to annoy him or distract him. It was either reading lines from some random play out loud, video calling his friends (that lived literally 5 minutes away from them) or worst, gaming with Jeno (Mark didn’t knew who Jeno was but the amount of times Donghyuck would scream Jenos name at the computer it was enough for Mark to remember that name).

He eventually gave up on studying at the dorm everytime his roommate was there and just went to the library and that’s how he meet Jaemin.

Mark was studying for his music theory classes with his headphones on when suddenly a boy sits in front of him and waves at him smiling. Mark thinks he has never saw someone with so many teeths. He takes off his headphones and looks at the boy confused.

“Can I help you with something?”

“ You’re Mark right? Hyuck’s roommate? Donghyuck i mean.” The boy asks looking at Mark and Mark feels intimidated by his stare. The boy is gorgeous and his stare is intense and as much as Mark tries to maintain eye contact with him he fails and drops his eyes to his book.

“Uh yeah I am. Why?” He asked the boy and looks at him again with his eyebrows slightly raised “Did he tell you something about me? If he did it’s probably bullshit he hates my guts for some reason and honest-“ Mark was interrupted by the boy that giggled and shakes his head.

“Wow there baby don’t worry! He didn’t asked for you. I mean he does talk about you a loooot like, a lot which is very funny but that’s now why i’m here. I’m Jaemin by the way, Hyuck’s best friend” he smiled and extended his hand towards Mark.

Mark took Jaemin hand still confused “I’m Mark but I guess you already know that.” he bit his lip and closed his book after marking the page he was on “can I know why you’re talking to me? Not to be rude or anything dude but as I said, your best friend hates me.”

Jaemin shook his head again “ I don’t really think he hates you. Trust me Hyuck doesn’t have the ability to hate anyone really. But anyways,  i’m here to ask you if you’re going to be at the dorm tonight! Hyuck invited us, me and my boyfriend and another friend of ours, to your dorm to watch some movies and after all the things he’s been telling us about you and how boring you are” Mark was ready to interfere but Jaemin held a finger up “ His words not mine! Anyways I don’t think he would have told you and I thought it would be better to let you know. Of course you’re invited I mean it’s your dorm too! And Don’t worry about Hyuck, me, Jeno and Renjun will take care of him. So what do you say?”

Mark bit his inner cheek looking at Jaemin for a few seconds and dropped his gaze to his books again thinking.

Why did Donghyuck hated him so much? And was it that hard to ask him first if it was ok with him to invite someone over to their shared dorm? Jaemin is nice how can they be best friends? Maybe Donghyuck is the devil and Jaemin is the angel and they compliment each other. Either way Mark wasn’t mad that Donghyuck didn’t told him, they barely spoke but it would have been nice if he had told Mark beforehand because now he just looks dumb having his roommate best friend inviting him for movies at his own dorm room! How pathetic is th-

“Mark? I can talk to Hyuck and we can go to my dorm if it makes you uncomfortable it’s ok.”

“No no you’re fine. It’s fine. I’m working anyway so I won’t be there. Thank you for the invite Jaemin really.” Mark smiled at the boy and started packing his materials. “Can I ask you something? But don’t tell Donghyuck I asked you this please.” He stopped what he was doing and looked at Jaemin “Why does he hate me so much? I haven’t done anything to make him hate me this much. Is it because of the room? He knows it’s not my fault we have to share a room!”

Jaemin looked at Mark while thinking and shrugged his shoulders “I don’t know Mark. I mean i know how pissed off he was about the room thing but I honestly thought he would just forget about that and you guys could be friends but… “ He sighed and suddenly stood up “Look, I just meet you and you seem like a nice guy but Hyuck is my friend so i won’t be here spoiling all of his story to you but he’s not a bad person, really, he’s just… special? In his own way. Anyways, it was good talking to you Mark! See you later maybe?” Jaemin smiled once again and waved, leaving Mark with his thoughts.

Mark grabbed his bag and put on his headphones again leaving the library. It was almost time for his shift at the coffee shop so he started heading to his dorm to leave his books and grab some other things to study.

As he walked to the dorm he couldn’t stop thinking about what Jaemin told him. Special? Donghyuck? Donghyuck is special? Yeah right, a special kind of idiot, Mark thought and scoffed. How stupid and entitled and arrogant could someone be? Mark never had any friends while growing up but his brother did and he saw how they would behave with each other and Mark tried to become friends with Donghyuck. He was always polite, respected his space, always asked if he needed help with anything when he noticed the younger was stressed but every reply he got from Donghyuck was filled with sarcasm and arrogance so Mark gave up. As any normal person would.

Whatever, Mark thought, it’s not like he needs friends, he just needs to focus on his studies and his work so he won’t get fired. Even though Mark highly doubts Ten or Kun would fire him. Not being cocky or anything but Mark knew he did a good job at the shop. Ten would send him messages to his grouch at with Kun every morning telling him how great the shop looked and how organised everything was so he knew he was doing a good job.

Mark stopped in front of the door to his dorm and signed before opening the door. The room was a mess. There were blankets everywhere and a bunch of bags with sweets on top of the table and in the middle of this mess stood Donghyuck.

“Ah… You’re back already?” The younger asked sarcastically and rolled his eyes folding one of the many blankets.

“You know? It would be nice to know from my own roommate that a bunch of people are going to come here tonight. Instead your friend came to me, inviting me to your little movie night.” Mark dry laughed and looked at Donghyuck. “Do you have any idea how stupid it felt being invited to something that it’s happening at the place where I live? Yes Donghyuck in case you forgot, I also live here! And i’m getting tired of you acting like a child every time i’m here!” Mark raised his voice and pointed at Donghyuck but the younger didn’t spare him a glance.

“I don’t care Mark. You live here because you want. As i told you from the beginning, you could simply leave.” Donghyuck finally looked at Mark as if challenging him and smirked “They are my friends and I live here I can invite whoever I want and when I want. If you don’t like it, leave.”

Mark closed his eyes taking a deep breath and turned back to Donghyuck. He closed the door to his room with force, threw his bag to the ground but as soon as it hit the ground he groaned and picked the bag up. Stupid Donghyuck and his stupid mouth and his stupid ideas and his stupid behaviour Mark thought while he exchanged the books inside his bag for some others and his notebook.

After this encounter Mark lost all is will to go to work. All he wanted to do was stay in bed and listen to music and eventually fall asleep but he also didn’t want to be in the dorm tonight.

As Mark was getting ready to leave he heard knocking on the door and a few seconds later some voices, Donghyuck friends he assumed and groaned. Now he had to talk to them before leaving.

He looked at his phone to check the time and sighed, if he didn’t leave now he would be late.

As he opened the door the noise stopped, he got out and closed the door behind him looking at the two strangers.

“Hi Mark! Are you joining us after all?” Jaemin asked letting go of one of the boys hands and coming close to him “It’s nice that you’re here! The more the merrier! This is Renjun” He said pointing at a tiny guy with two coloured hair that gave him a tight smile and a small wave “And this is my boyfriend, Jeno!” Jaemin said smiling and pulling jeno softly by the hand.

“Hi! It’s nice to meet you! Donghyuck never shuts up about you so it’s good finally have a face to imagine every time he complains about you” Jeno said smiled and Mark just looked at him and sighed.

“It’s nice to meet you too I guess. And no I won’t be staying I have to go to work because some of us don’t have money. If i had i would have found another place to stay!” He said the last part a little louder looking directly at Donghyuck but the younger just rolled his eyes and Mark scoffed shaking his head “anyways have fun guys. I have to go. See you around” Mark gave them a small wave and left without looking back.

“Hyuck… You’re being a jerk” Renjun said as he sit down on the floor and crossed his legs “What did you tell him for him to act like that?”

Donghyuck looked at his friend and shrugged “He’s a cry baby. I only told him the truth that he could simply leave if he didn’t like it here.”

His friends looked at each other and Jaemin decided to speak first “Hyuck… Don’t you think you’re being a little too harsh on him? He didn’t do anything bad to you. I spoke with him at the library earlier and he’s nice. And don’t you think that if he could move out he would still be here with you? For fuck sake Hyuck he’s working! That means he probably doesn’t have money to just find another place to stay. Right?” He looked at his boyfriend trying to get some back up and the other agreed as soon as he looked at Jaemin.

“How do you know that?” Donghyuck asked Jaemin “you don’t know if he doesn’t have money or if he’s just working for fun!”

“Nobody would work for fun Hyuck be for real” Jeno laughed “but yeah I agree with Jaeminie, he’s nice but you’re being a prick and that’s not cute.”

“He’s cute.” Renjun said smiling “Mark I mean, he’s cute don’t you think?” he asks Donghyuck directly and the latter makes a disgusted expression.

“Renjun please. He’s cute when he’s outside, far away from me but thanks for asking. Anyways!” Donghyuck exclaimed smiling “Enough about my roommate! Let’s watch some movies tonight”

The group agreed smiling, they all gathered together on the floor, covered themselves with blankets and started their movie night.

“- and then he said I could leave if I wanted! I want to! But I can’t! That’s why I’m working!” Mark sighed and Ten, that has been listening to the younger rant about his roommate since he arrived all grumpy to the coffee shop gave him a a side hug.

“It’s gonna be ok Mark. Your roommate is a piece of shit but you’re a good person, don’t forget that yeah?” he ruffled marks hair and got up “but if he crosses the line you show him! Don’t let him hurt your feelings. I have to go now, Kun is waiting for me. Will you be ok by yourself?”

“Yeah yeah of course Ten. Thanks and sorry for bothering you with my things i’m just frustrated.” He sighed as he got up and Ten shakes his head.

“Mark it’s not a bother! Don’t ever say that! We’re coworkers but you’re also my friend! I don’t mind listening to you so please don’t keep all of that to yourself yeah?”

Mark nodded and smiled thanking the older.

After wishing a good and safe night to Mark and telling him to call if anything happens Ten left and Mark started to work.

It was Friday night so the shop was slow and Mark was thankful for that. He tried to focus on some paper but he couldn’t stop thinking about Donghyuck said to him and how arrogant he was. But he also felt bad for the other three guys there, he knew he wasn’t the most friendly person earlier but he was so mad he couldn’t help it. And what did Jeno ment when he said that Donghyuck is always talking about him? As if he has anything to say! He tries so hard to avoid Donghyuck that it would be hard for the younger to find things to tell their friends about him. Maybe he’s lying about me to make me look bad, Mark thought but quickly shook those thoughts away, you’re being paranoid.

Mark grabbed his phone and stared at his brother’s contact for a few seconds before hitting the video call button. Not even a few seconds later and Johnny picked up smiling.

“Hey Markie! What’s up? Are you working?”

Mark smiled as soon as he saw his brother and nodded “Hey, yeah i’m working but it’s Friday so there’s no one here. I’m almost closing. Anyways what are you up to?”

“I’m literally on the couch watching a movie with Taeyong-“ suddenly blond hair appeared on Mark’s screen and he smiled “Hi Markie!” Taeyong smiled and waved and disappeared as soon as he said that showing Johnny once again on the screen “are you ok Mark? You seem down…”

Mark bit his lip and shook his head “Not really. I’m sorry for calling i just…” The younger couldn’t look at the screen afraid that he would start crying just by looking at his brother.

He hear something coming from the phone and when he finally looked at his phone he noticed that Johnny had went to his room. “Mark what’s going on? What happened? Do you want me to go there?”

Mark shook his head “It’s nothing serious i’m just… I think i’m just stressed. I’m sorry for worrying you.” Johnny sighed and Mark couldn’t look at his phone again.

“Mark never be sorry for calling me. You’re never a bother, never! You’re my brother. Are you sure it’s just that? I can ask Taeyong and we can pick you up when you finish your shift and you can sleep at ours if you want. You don’t have classes tomorrow right?”

“No I don’t. And thanks but i’d rather just go to the dorm and sleep. But we could have lunch together tomorrow if you could?” Mark looked at his brother expectantly and Johnny smiled.

“Yeah of course! I’ll tell Taeyong and see if he’s fr-“

“I kinda wanted to be just us” Mark interrupted and johnny looked at him and nodded smiling once again.

“Anything for my favourite brother!” Mark laughed shaking his head.

“I’m your only brother!” Johnny shrugged and laughed together with his brother. “Text me tomorrow morning, I have to start closing. See you tomorrow Johnny”

“Bye Markie, take care and call me if you need anything alright?” Mark nodded and waved at the camera before hanging up.

He got up and finally closed the door and linked his phone to the speaker so he could start cleaning while listening to his songs. He started emptying the trash cans, cleaning the toilets, cleaning the kitchen and then the coffee machine.

Mark suddenly stopped when he looked at the pastries left. There were some cookies, a chocolate muffin, a blueberry muffin and some slices of banana bread. He picked some takeaway boxes and carefully put the leftovers inside so he could take them home.

When everything was done, he boiled some water for a tea so he could drink while going back to the dorm. Maybe the tea would help him sleep, Mark thought, or at least it would warm him up while walking back.

“What do you guys wanna watch now?” Donghyuck asked looking  at his friends and that’s when he noticed that Jeno and Renjun were already asleep. “Nevermind” he whispered and giggled.

“Jeno was tired he woke up early today, poor baby” Jaemin covered his boyfriend with the blanket and looked at his best friend “Hyuck… Can we talk?” Donghyuck nodded, confused and looked at his friend waiting. “I think you should apologise to Mark. And before you start, think about it! He doesn’t look like someone that has any friends, you have us, I bet he’s lonely Hyuck and you know how that feels and it doesn’t feel nice right?” Donghyuck looked down at his hands feeling ashamed “ I don’t want to make you feel bad Hyuck, you know that, but think about it yeah? And why are you like this to him? Has he done anything to you? Was he disrespectful to you? Please just tell me Hyuck i’m trying to understand you. You’re not usually like this” Jaemin pulled one of Donghyuck’s hand to his lap and kept on holding it.

Donghyuck stayed silent looking at their hands. Why did he hated Mark? He didn’t know. He honestly didn’t know why, he just didn’t liked him. He didn’t liked the fact that he was nice to him when he didn’t even knew Donghyuck was, he didn’t liked the fact that even though Mark sometimes looked stressed with classes he still asked Donghyuck if he was ok or if he needed anything, he didn’t liked the fact that Mark was a good person. He didn’t want to like Mark! He didn’t need more friends, he didn’t want more people in his life, he doesn’t want to get attached to someone that will eventually vanish after college is over.

“I just… I don’t like that he’s… good” Donghyuck whispers the last part and he feels Jaemin squeezing his hand “It infuriates me that he’s nice all the time, even though i try to make him mad and make him stay away from me. I don’t want to get attached to him Jaemin. I know myself and I know i’m fucking clingy and I don’t want that. I want to hate him and I want him to hate me too that’s why i’m like this with him…” Donghyuck heard his best friend sigh and finally looked at him.

“Hyuck… I’m not saying you guys need to be friends. He doesn’t deserve the way your treating him. I’m not invalidating your feeling, they are valid and it’s ok to feel scared to get attached to someone knowing that you will probably never see each other again in a few years” Donghyuck scoffs and rolls his eyes “as I was saying! You don’t need to be friends. Just be civil with each other. And I still think you should apologise.”

“I’ll try. But no promises Jaemin. I will try to be civil with him. Or avoid him as much as I can.” Dongh whispered again and he heard Jaemin yawn. “Sleep jaemin. I’m going to the bathroom” He kissed his friend head and got up.

He closed the bathroom door softly so he wouldn’t wake up his friends and looked at himself on the mirror. He was being a prick as Jeno said and he knew that but it was stronger than him. Donghyuck sighed and washed his face and teeths. As he was getting out of the bathroom he heard the door closing of the dorm opening.

Donghyuck stood there looking at the door as Mark came in holding a bag with some boxes and a cup that was probably empty with the way he was holding it. He couldn’t talk, he just stood there watching his roommate close the door as softly as he could and locking after. He watched as he took of his shoes and finally looked around, freezing as soon as he saw Donghyuck watching him.

Mark looked at Donghyuck, both frozen in place but the snoring from one of Donghyuck’s friends made them move. Mark walked quietly to the table and put the bag on top taking the boxes out of the bag, he could feel Donghyuck moving slowly like a cat next to the table but he didn’t said anything.

“Mark.”

Donghyuck could feel his hands shaking a bit. He was nervous about apologising to Mark. He didn’t think he deserved to be forgiven but Jaemin was right, he had to apologise.

“You can eat these if you want. They’re leftovers from the coffee shop where I work. It’s not poisoned if you’re wondering. Give some to your friends too and apologise for me for the way I acted when we meet. I was stressed and I wasn’t very nice.” Donghyuck kept looking at Mark listening to the other boy talking. He watched as mark opened one of the boxes and took two cookies pushing the box in Donghyuck’s direction. “Eat.”

Donghyuck looked at the box and bit his lip looking at the cookies. He picked one up and took a bite. As soon as Mark saw him take a bite, he turned around walking towards his bedroom.

“Mark.” Donghyuck called once again and the latter stopped and looked at him.

“What?”

I’m sorry. “Thank you. For the cookie.”

Mark looked at him for a few seconds and nodded walking into his room and closing the door softly.