Archive of Our Own

“You two have been married for 3 years now. Have you ever celebrated your anniversary abroad? I expected to have a nephew or a niece sooner.” Wonyoung rolled her eyes, she looked over to her brother who was still sketching on his table. “Me and Riki are busy, Wonyoung, and pardon me, we celebrate our Anniversary the way we like it.” 

“Yeah. Having take out and store-bought cake. What are you two? High schools? I can take someone out and eat with them in a high end restaurant and I still have work tonight. However, you two are both successful people! Riki is what? He’s the same age as me, he’s running his parent’s company, you run one of our companies too yet you two can never–”

“Why don’t you take Riki out yourself then?” Sunghoon frowned and his forehead creased, he pushed his glasses back to his nose to at least try to focus on the dress he was drafting. “Oh please. If he was betrothed to me, I will! I would treat him better than you!” She threw a rolled tissue at Sunghoon’s face who finally closed his sketch pad. “I treat him well, Wonyoung-ah. We treat each other well.” 

“Yada, yada, yada. You speak too much.” She yawned playfully while Sunghoon sighed, he placed his sketchpad in his bag and finally stood up. “Let’s go. I have to be home before dinner.” Wonyoung smirked and poked her brother’s arm. “Oh dinner at your house? Did Riki cook?” 

“Of course, he always cooks. The only thing I have to do is go home early and wash the dishes.” 

“If that’s so, can I stay over?” She crossed her arms as they left the building. “What for?” Sunghoon frowned. Don’t get him wrong, it’s not that he doesn’t want his sister around, he just doesn’t want someone to ruin his well rehearsed plans for the night. Yeah, that should be it. 

“Just because.” 

Sunghoon found himself seated in front of his sister and his husband who was talking like he wasn’t present. He wasn’t angry or jealous, he just wanted to finish his dinner that Riki made, that was purposely for him and for him only.  “I always liked the food you cook, Riki. It pops in my mouth, the different flavors are fighting inside my mouth! I should come over often!” 

“Ah, stop flattering me with your words, Wonyo, and you can come over often. It’s okay, just give me a heads up, yeah? You know your brother doesn’t like sharing his food.” Riki chuckled, serving Wonyoung more bibimbap. “Oh he likes sharing his food, especially with me.” She teased and looked at Sunghoon who’s frowning even deeper. “Don’t start.” He grumbled and stood up, placing his bowl by the sink. “Thanks for the food, Riki. Call me when the two of you are done.” 

Riki looked at his husband who quickly left the dining room. “Is he okay?” He asked Wonyoung who laughed beside him. “He’s just fussing, he doesn’t like me here.” Riki’s eyes softened and smiled at Wonyoung. “I’m sure it’s not that.” He answered and sat back. “He had been stressed these past few days and I'm not sure what occurred. Did he tell you anything?” 

“Huh. Not that i can think of, but nevermind. It’s your birthday this weekend right? It even stumbled upon the long weekend. What are your plans?” She simply started, wanting to manifest something out to Riki who just smiled. “I’m busy. We’ll probably just eat back here and order some cake..?” 

“God, you two are meant for each other.” Wonyoung sighed and stood up, taking Riki’s dirty plate in the process “I’ll clean up and I'll get going, yeah?” “Oh you don’t have to, you’re the guest!” 

“Please, I invited myself, plus it’s the only thing I can do after pissing off my brother.” She laughed and Riki sighed. “You two are both stubborn.” 

After Wonyoung left, Riki took a quick shower to let his body relax. This day was eventful, he was the Head Interior Designer and the CEO. Some designs were not to his taste and the client didn’t like it too, so the team that was responsible for that client needed to start back from scratch once again. He exited the bathroom with thoughts of designing the place himself and so he entered he and Sunghoon’s shared office to only see his husband working too. 

“Hey.” He softly called out, taking his iPad out and opening the app he used for designing digitally and sat on his own desk. “Hey, where’s Wonyoung?” Sunghoon asked and was ready to stand up when Riki answered him. “She already left, she even washed the dishes as an apology for inviting herself.” Riki chuckled softly and Sunghoon hummed. “That’s good. How was work?” He started and Riki frowned, the younger then started ranting to Sunghoon how awful his day was and how he just wanted to lie on their bed and sleep his worries away.”Do you perhaps want to sleep then?” Riki placed his iPen down and looked at his husband who was sketching too. “H-how about you? You seem invested–” 

“If you’re tired, then I'm tired.” Riki blushed and quickly looked away. “T-then let’s sleep.” Sunghoon had never closed his sketchpad this quick. 

Why does my heart yearn for him? Riki wondered as he sat on his and Sunghoon’s shared bed, browsing for a movie while he was waiting for Sunghoon who was showering. It wasn’t like love or having feelings was forbidden, he wasn’t even refraining himself for falling for the older this time around, however, does the older liked him back? What if Sunghoon was just being like this because he liked having Riki around? Or he was just that kind to Riki? Was he like this to every person he met or just to me?

Riki and Sunghoon met during 4th Year College, approximately 5 years ago. Their parents were excellent friends, they wanted to always be up to date with each other concluding a decision to marry their first borns together. No remorse was heard from the two and they just accepted their parents' proposal, the two were childhood friends hence they were comfortable with each other. 

Falling in love. That was the main idea of this marriage ‘no? Why was Riki scared of it then? Was he scared of falling in love when he himself was in love with the older one already? Scratch that. He wasn’t scared of falling, he was scared of admitting his feelings to Sunghoon and on top of that, he was scared to be rejected, especially when it comes to Sunghoon. He was scared of being rejected by Sunghoon. 

“What’s running in that beautiful head of yours?” Sunghoon asked, he sat by the bed, his hair was still wet from the shower but he was already wearing his pajamas. “N-nothing.” A flesh crept up Riki’s face as he turned his head back to the television. “Your hair’s still wet.” He commented and Sunghoon raised another towel, his back facing Riki. “I won’t lie down with wet hair, don’t worry. What do you want to watch?” 

This was their nightly routine, after showering they would watch a movie together regardless of the genre. It was a simple moment for the two of them, their quality time. “All the bright places?” Riki asked, scooting aside as Sunghoon finally entered their bed. “Again?” He huffed out, taking his hair brush. “Yeah.” 

“Well, All the bright places it is.” Sunghoon never understood the feeling you’ll get with watching romantic movies. Was it the longing to achieve something like the movie portrayed? Or was it longing for something that’s in front of you but never had the strength to hold it close? Sunghoon’s forehead creased. The last question wasn’t about the movie they were watching, heck, Riki was already asleep and Justice was still alive and well. 

He had never counted how many times he and Riki watched this movie, he even bought Riki the book for the younger’s birthday before they got married. Riki’s reaction will always be remembered by Sunghoon, he ransacked every book store to find that book, it even took his whole day and mind you it was just around 4-5 Dollars. Sunghoon could’ve gotten that book quickly if he just pressed on some online stores, he could’ve asked his secretary to look for the book however, as Riki always says “It’s the thought that counts, hyung.” and so Sunghoon looked for it. Even if it took the whole day, even if he had to go back to his office with lots of backlogs, even if he was tired, what Riki wants, Riki gets. 

The older one looked at the television. Finch and Violet, two souls who weren’t destined to meet. That was Sunghoon’s initial thought when he first watched the movie, moreover as he and Riki watched the movie numerous times, he came to a conclusion that every person you meet is destined to be someone. Even if they’re just a passerby, whereas with Finch and Violet, Finch was already a lost cause and Violet was already dead. Finch brought her back to life while Violet couldn’t even save Finch from the deepest darkest ocean that was his mind. 

Sometimes, Sunghoon can relate to Finch because like Finch, he is grateful, he is here, because if he weren’t he would be missing this. Sunghoon turned to look at Riki who was now sleeping beside him. The younger’s eyes were closed, his face were puffy, pillow marks were evident on his cheeks, his eyelashes rested peacefully, his mouth was open as he slept, ever since they were kids, Riki had been a mouth breather when they were asleep, it seems like he never grew out of it. He tipped Riki’s chin to, as always, close his mouth, he then proceeded to kiss the younger’s forehead and gave his cheek a pinch, making Riki smile and leaned into Sunghoon’s warm arms. . 

Sometimes, it’s good to be awake. “So not today,” I sing. “Because she smiled at me.” 

All the Bright Places, Jennifer Niven

—

“Ah, thank God it’s Sunday.” Riki giggled as he flipped another page. He was currently reading Atonement by Ian McEwan on their veranda, while Sunghoon was sunbathing. He lay on the lounge chair with glasses, showing the world his pale skin. “Thank God, indeed.” He smiled. 

“Why are you bathing yourself in the sunlight, Mr. Vampire? You’ll get burned?” Riki teased with a small smile. He sipped on his coffee and turned to look at Sunghoon. He was wearing a white tank top and his pajama, the silver necklace Riki gifted him glistened under the sun. “This Vampire needs Vitamin D. Little duckling.” Sunghoon teased back. “Instead of giggling over your book in our comforter, why don’t you come here and busk in the sunlight?” 

“What? No! I wanna read!” Riki protested, glaring at his husband. “You need Vitamin D for your bones, baby.” Riki glared even harder at the endearment. It’s only 6 in the morning yet Sunghoon makes his heart race like he ran a marathon! “Despicable man.” He murmured, facing his back over to Sunghoon, cuddling himself in their comforter as he started to read once again. “What did you call me?” Sunghoon called out, he removed his glasses and went over to his husband, taking the comforter off and then carrying Riki over to his lounge chair where the sun was. 

“NO! Sunghoon!” He wailed as Sunghoon hugged him tight, placing the younger one on top of him, caging Riki in his arms as they lay down. Riki hissed as the sun kissed his skin. “I don’t like this!” Riki murmured on Sunghoon’s chest, pinching the older’s biceps but Sunghoon acted like he was sleeping. “Sunghoon!” Riki whined. “What?” He finally laughed, opening his eyes to see Riki glaring at him. “I don’t want to busk in–” 

“Sir? If i may, your parents are–” 

“OH MY!” Park Seona shrieked as she saw her son and her son-in-law on top of each other, it was a sight to see indeed. “Mom!” Sunghoon sat up, his arms automatically snaking itself over to Riki’s waist, helping the younger man maintain his balance. Riki’s face turned crimson and he instantly hid his face on his husband’s chest. “Did I barge in during the wrong time?” She teased making the two husbands groan. 

“So?” Sunghoon raised his eyebrow while his Mom smirked at him. “I got you a vacation for your birthday!” She showed two plane tickets to the husbands whose eyes both widened. “M-ma, it’s winter season, me and Sunghoon will be booked and busy. I already have 5 clients lined up as we speak.” Riki tried to reason out. “That’s true, Mom. I need to finish at least the Winter Collection while Riki has to finish his design too.” Sunghoon backed up, looking at his Mom with bored and tired eyes. Seona rolled her eyes and placed the tickets on the coffee table. “You two are going, whether you like it or not! It’s your birthday for God sake! You don’t even celebrate your anniversary! Plus, there’s no grandkids in tow! What do you want us to do?” 

“Did Wonyoung implanted this idea in your head?” Sunghoon groaned, taking the tickets from the table. “Don’t drag your sister into this. Poor wonnie, she only wants what’s best for her two brothers. Me and Rai organized this for the two of you! It’s over the weekend, clashing with your birthdays. So for your Dear Mother’s can you two please go? We expect a grandkid in tow when you come back. Alright?” 

“Mom. It’s not easy to conjure a kid. It’s not like it’s a pup that we can just get–” 

“Shhh! I will not accept any excuses! Go pack your bags alright? Have fun in hawaii!” 

—

“Shirts, underwear, shorts, swimwear….” Riki whispered to himself as he folded the clothes, Sunghoon was waiting for his go signal before placing them in the suitcase. Sunghoon sighed, he slumped back on their bed making sure not to mess with the neatly folded pile of clothes beside him. “Hoon, can you get me some extra slacks for you? Just in case?” Sunghoon stood up and entered their walk-in closet and taking out some slacks, he quickly gave it to Riki who was chewing on his bottom lip. The older stared at his lips, licking his own in the process. “H-here.” He softly placed the slacks on top of his other clothes and looked away. 

I want to kiss him. 

“Is Hawaii considered as a tropical country?” Riki asked, he was holding his phone, searching for things to do in hawaii while Sunghoon zipped their suitcases “I’m not sure. Is it?” Riki scanned the website further and nodded. “Oh. It is actually. Good thing we packed light clothes. However, it’s snowing over there.” Sunghoon looked up, his sweat cascading down his pajamas, making Riki stare at the older. “It’s snowing?” He frowned, he just zipped their suitcases, are they going to re-open and repack? But it’s a handful, he was tired too. 

“Oh. It depends on which island you’ll stay on.” Riki giggled and closed his phone. “We’re done for tonight.” He stood up and dragged their suitcases up while Sunghoon went to shower. The two had their own suitcases, they brought 2 suitcases and 2 bags. Riki took Sunghoon’s bag and checked it thoroughly. Every necessity that Sunghoon needed was here including his face kit, Riki smiled to himself, Sunghoon would never leave this, this is his life, this is the reason why he had such a damn handsome face. Rik turned crimson and shoved the pouch bag inside the bag and quickly zipped it up. Stupid Sunghoon, Stupid handsome face. 

He left the room with a grumble, his heavy footsteps made Sunghoon peek out the bathroom. Is something the matter? He thought and continued to brush his teeth. He was dead tired, while Riki was folding both of their clothes he was the one assigned to pack their other bags. 

Sunghoon had already finished showering when he heard crashes and cheers from downstairs. He looked at their room and saw that their things were already fixed and tidied up for tomorrow. Riki was probably playing video games downstairs, probably blowing off some steam. Sunghoon could blow off some steam too and so he took some books from his bedside drawer and started reading. It was nice, now he understood why Riki liked it. The feeling of drowning in each word that was written on the pages pulled him in, drowning him more as he succumbed to another page, eager to know more about what was going to happen. 

He didn’t even realize that Riki crept in and laid down beside him, pulling his comforter and automatically resting his head on Sunghoon’s shoulder as sleep quickly kissed his eyes. Sunghoon turned to look at him when he heard the younger huff. It was once again Sunghoon and the sleeping Riki. He closed the book he was reading and opened his arms to let Riki enter them, the younger one was surely taller than him but his build was bigger, Riki preferred to be carried by Sunghoon. “Goodnight, hyungie.” He whispered before nuzzling his nose into Sunghoon’s neck. “Goodnight, Riki.” Sunghoon answered back and kissed the younger’s forehead, hugging him tighter this time. 

“I love you, not just for now, but for always, and I dream of the day that you'll take me in your arms again." Dear John, Nicholas Sparks. 

“Aloha! Welcome to Hawaii! You must be Mr. Park-Nishimura, your parents booked the hotel for the both of you. You will be staying here for approximately 3 nights and 4 days.” The hotelier smiled at the husbands and called other staff to help them carry their luggages. “Excuse me? What do you mean 3 nights and 4 days? Mom told me we would be staying just for the weekend.” 

“Is that so? Do you wish to shorten your stay in Hawaii, sir?” She asked and Riki quickly shook his head. “N-no! We’ll be staying here for the days that Ma booked, can we have our keys? The flight was long and we need to rest.” Riki answered and swatted Sunghoon away. “Oh! Here you go Sir! We’re glad you’ll get to stay here with us. Your bedroom is in the hotel suite, we hope you enjoy your stay.” Riki gave her a sweet smile and dragged Sunghoon to the elevator, their things were already being delivered upstairs so it was just the two of them inside. 

“What was that?” Sunghoon asked and Riki looked at him. “What was what?” He tightly closed his eyes and craned his neck sidewards and sighed. “Why did you agree? We could've left the hotel soon and gotten back home to work.” 

Oh. 

“Oh. I see. Is that what you want? You can go home earlier if you like, Sunghoon. I’m not going to waste Ma’s efforts on preparing this vacation for our birthday.” He answered softly and looked away. Ignoring the needles poking on his palm and the hood of his feet, if Sunghoon didn’t want to celebrate their birthday together, he should’ve said so, Riki can go to Hawaii himself. 

Sunghoon sighed for the nth time that day and pulled Riki close to him. “It’s not that I didn't want to celebrate our birthday together. I’m just worried about work, yeah. That’s all.” Thankfully, the elevator dinged and Riki just nodded, his mouth set into a hard line and exited the elevator, walking fast to ignore Sunghoon. The bell boy was already waiting for them and that made Riki open the hotel suite quickly to let them drop their baggage. Sunghoon murmured a quick thanks and gave tips to them. “There’s only one bed.” Riki’s frown went deep and threw his jacket on the bed with a groan. “So what? We sleep together all the time. It’s no big deal.” 

“I don’t want to talk to you right now.” The elder rolled his eyes and took their suitcases out of the carrier. “Stop being difficult, Riki. Come here and get our bags.” Riki scoffed and snatched his own bag and suitcases before dragging it to his usual place, the right side of the bed. “Stop being difficult, Riki. This is our vacation.” 

“Stop being difficult, my ass. This is not our vacation if only I am willing to enjoy it. You can stay here with your sketch pads and stupid pencils while I go out and busk in the sunlight.” He snapped, not really enjoying Sunghoon’s presence as of the moment, he then opened his suitcase and took his towel out. “I’m going to take a shower.” He announced and stomped over to the bathroom, closing the door with a loud bang. Sunghoon groaned and took his own suitcases out. He then saw Riki’s bag, still sitting on the bed. He took it and knocked on the bathroom door. “WHAT!” Riki snapped. “I have your things.” He quickly opened the door and snatched it from Sunghoon’s hands who still stood there, eyes wide. 

Oh well, this will be difficult.  

Riki hogged the comforter and turned away from Sunghoon who was applying his skin care routine. He tightly closed his eyes to let sleep creep into his system. “I hate this.” He murmured and snatched his phone on the bedside table, he switched it open and saw the time: it’s already 18:30 in the evening, plus it’s still the 7th here, it’s still saturday.  It's Sunghoon’s birthday tomorrow. He was so not in the mood to talk to the older after what happened earlier. He grumbled tossed and turned in the bed. “Is something the matter, Riki?” Sunghoon asked, finally patting his face, finishing his nightly routine. “Nothing.” He squealed underneath the comforter and Sunghoon just shook his head. “Move over. I need to sleep too.” He softly announced, tugging on the comforter. 

“Sleep on the couch.” Sunghoon frowned, he looked over the couch. It was a beige L shaped couch, it would fit him perfectly, however, he wasn’t in the mood. He wants to sleep, he wants to sleep beside Riki. “I wouldn't fit. Come on, Riki. I wanna–” 

“Go home.” Riki whispered and tugged on the comforter. Sunghoon felt his heart skip a beat, so that’s why Riki was like this. He misinterpreted the situation earlier. “Why? Don’t you want me here?” He chuckled, his deep laugh resonating in the room. “I should be asking you that.” 

“Come here.” Sunghoon pulled the younger one from the comforter and gave him a tight hug. “It’s not that I don't want to have a vacation with you, Riki. I just wanted to finish my work before relaxing.” He explained making Riki roll his eyes. “Well I guess your work never gets done, eh?” 

“That’s not it. Come on, get out, I'm sorry.” Riki huffed and peaked out of the comforter. “F-fine.” He blushed and tugged the comforter off himself. “I’m sorry, okay? I want to have a vacation with you. Heck, i will drop everything if you asked me to come with you anytime anywhere.” 

“That’s not what you said earlier. I feel like you’re just being forced to take this vacation with me. It’s our birthday, Sunghoon. I want to have a vacation at least once in a while, you know.” He pouted and Sunghoon tugged Riki closer, caging the younger one in his arms. “I’m sorry. Let’s keep on having vacations okay? I’m sick of having take-outs and store bought cake.” 

“I’m sorry too.” Riki pouted, hugging Sunghoon back. “I really want to enjoy this vacation, that's why I snapped.” He pouted and looked up to Sunghoon who was listening to him. His mouth was pressed in a thin line cutely as he looked down on Riki, his eyes were attentive as Riki explained his side. The moles decorated his face like it was the milky way, making Riki stop ranting and was just staring at Sunghoon’s face. Sunghoon smiled and caressed Riki’s face. 

“We will enjoy this vacation, okay? No more fighting?” 

“No more fighting.” 

—

Riki quickly sat up when he heard his phone beep. It was exactly 12 in the midnight, it was Sunghoon’s birthday. Riki looked over to his left where Sunghoon was sleeping still, he carefully slipped off the bed and walked over to his bag to retrieve the lighter and walked over to the mini refrigerator present in the suite. When Sunghoon was already asleep, he asked the hotel staff if they had banana bread, they did and he ordered one, asking for a small candle in the process. The click of the lighter resonated in the room, while Riki slowly walked over to Sunghoon’s side. Placing the Banana bread on the bed side table and tapping Sunghoon’s cheek softly. “Sunghoon.” He called out, ruffling the older’s hair. This will wake him up, the thought.

  His hair is really soft. Riki thought while he brushed his fingers in them. Sunghoon’s hair was raven colored, popping his porcelain skin. Complementing those thick eyebrows and scattered moles on his face. Sunghoon was pretty, hell, Sunghoon was gorgeous. Riki’s finger’s caressed his cheeks, the fatty muscles it had when they were kids were long gone, sometimes Riki still imagined the older with full cheeks up to this day, but with those full cheeks his jaw line won’t be prominent. As if on cue, Riki traced his Sunghoon’s jawline, admiring the L bone that shaped Sunghoon’s face.  “How can you be so pretty?” He murmured and Sunghoon’s eyes snapped open, taking the younger by surprise. “Why are you staring, Riki? You should be asleep.” He grumbled, tugging Riki and almost placing him back in the bed when Riki remembered what he was supposed to be doing. “Wait! Wait!” Riki pushed Sunghoon’s arms away and sat back up, taking the banana bread and poked Sunghoon. 

“Happy 25th Birthday, Hyung. Make a wish!” Sunghoon quickly whipped his head over to Riki who was smiling widely while holding a banana bread. The room was dark, only the cold whips of the air conditioner could be heard and the only light source was the candle from Riki. He stared at Riki with a silly smirk, he tightly closed his eyes and clasped his hands together. 

I wish to be with this man right here for eternity. I wish for him to be prosperous and happy, I wish that those smiles and laughter will forever remain in my heart, let me remember it everyday, let it be my inspiration for the next upcoming days, hours, weeks, months and even years. Thank you for giving me riki, please don’t take him away. 

Sunghoon opened his eyes and blew the candle. “What did you wish for?” Riki asked, once again ruffling Sunghoon’s hair as the older lay his head on Riki’s chest. “If i told you then it would be jinxed.” He murmured, closing his eyes as he fell back to sleep. “Happy birthday hyungie.I hope you’ll be happy. You are, and you will always be loved.” This time, Riki whispered, “I love you.” 

Unbeknownst to Riki, Sunghoon was still awake. He heard each and every word the younger said, hugging Riki’s waist tighter as he snuggled, somewhat drowning himself in Riki’s scent and warmth. Riki tipped his head down and kissed Sunghoon’s forehead. 

“Sunghoon! Wake up, we have an itinerary for today! We have to meet the whales at 9, eat an early lunch at 11:30 and the next schedule is to see the Luau at 5:30 for your birthday dinner!” Riki announced and threw his wet towel over to his sleeping husband. “Riki, give me a break. It’s my birthday. Can we still at least be late for the Whale sighting?” 

“NO! Come on, Hoonie. We have to be there right on time or else they’re going to leave without us. Come on. Stand up, we have to get going!” Sunghoon groaned while Riki tugged on his sleeves. “The Whales won’t be waiting for you! Stand up!” Riki finally dragged Sunghoon out of the bed, however due to the older’s heavy weight, they once again ended up lying on top of each other. Sunghoon stared at Riki’s wide eyes, he held the younger’s nape, he stared at Riki’s eyes before leaning in and– It was sudden and unexpected. Sunghoon didn’t know why he did that, it was probably because of Riki’s nagging. Ever since the younger woke up he had been complaining, nagging ang yapping here and there. It was like his Mom was with them. 

“S-sunghoon? What are you doing? Get off me! You’re so heavy!” Riki shoved Sunghoon away and stood up. “Take a bath! I’ll pack our bags!” Sunghoon quickly stood up, retrieving the towel that Riki threw at his face awhile ago. He scratched his head and waddled on his way to the bathroom. Might as well take a very cold shower. 

“Whales are deeply significant in Hawaiian culture, symbolizing connection to the ocean and family. Efforts to protect humpbacks, such as the establishment of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, ensure these gentle giants thrive for generations.” The staff announced as they finally cruised through the ocean, revealing Humpback Whales or what they call “Kohola” 

“Hoonie, look at them! They’re so cute!” Riki squeezed Sunghoon’s arms as the whales splashed and showed off to the people who were gazing at them. Riki was sure enjoying the view more than Sunghoon, well, Sunghoon was enjoying it too, however, he was not looking at the whales. 

Riki smiled as the whales once again appeared in his eyesight. He was smiling like there was no tomorrow, it will surely hurt his jaw later. Sunghoon held Riki’s hand that was pinching his shoulder, it wasn’t hurting him per se, he just wanted to hold Riki close to him. “Look at them!” Riki pinched Sunghoon’s arm when he saw that the older wasn’t watching the whales. “I’m looking! I’m looking!” 

“You better!” Riki playfully punched him and turned to look at the whales once again. Sunghoon sighed blissfully and enveloped the sight in front of him, he rolled his eyes and stared at the dark blue ocean. He closed his eyes as he let himself listen to the whale’s splashes and Riki’s giggles. Everytime the younger one laughs, his clutch on Sunghoon’s arms tighten. This simple touch makes Sunghoon swoon, what is up with him? Ever since they landed here his feelings and emotions were all over the place. He doesn’t know if it was a good thing or a bad thing. 

“Sir, please move away. You’ll get soaked when the whales play.” The staff reminded Sunghoon and Sunghoon nodded, tugging Riki away from the railings with a chuckle. “Are you enjoying it?” Sunghoon whispered in Riki’s ear who leaned in with a chuckle. “Yes. Are you?” Sunghoon sniffed Riki’s hair and sighed. “If you’re happy then i am too.” “What? It’s your birthday.” “It’s your birthday too.” 

“My birthday is tomorrow. Today is yours, so you should enjoy it.” “Yeah, whatever you say.” The Whale Sighting eventually came to an end, Sunghoon thanked the Hawaiian Gods for the time being and he dragged Riki out of the boat quickly. Holding into the younger’s waist as they walked over to eat lunch. “What are we going to eat?” Sunghoon asked, clutching on their shared bag while he let himself be dragged on by Riki. “We’re going to eat street foods!” 

“S-street foods? I want to eat real food, Riki.” Sunghoon groaned, this time however Riki stopped and looked at Sunghoon, eyes looking everywhere except Sunghoon’s. “O-okay, what do you want to eat?” Riki asked, bashful. He clearly looked awkward and Sunghoon only made the situation worse. “Just anywhere.” He started walking and Riki’’s lips formed a thin line, those familiar poking needles were evident as he clenched his hands, he tightly closed his eyes and released a huff. He started following Sunghoon who stopped in front of a restaurant, Riki gazed at the older’s back and pursed his lips. 

Sunghoon seemed fine. I probably shouldn’t force Sunghoon to do things he didn’t like, it was the older’s birthday after all. B-but i planned these things for him, i even booked a theatrical Luau so we can watch while enjoying dinner. I should have asked him if he enjoyed that because i know for a fact that i will. Riki froze, he covered his mouth. Clearly not minding the people who were passing by, it seemed like his world stopped. Riki realized that despite being childhood friends he never actually knew the things that Sunghoon likes. Heck they were married for 3 years already but Riki never knew– “What are you doing? You’re blocking the walkway.” A man blurted out and Riki blushed. “O-oh sorry, i’m just deep in thought.” He bowed as an apology and started walking again, looking at the restaurant that Sunghoon entered, Sunghoon was there indeed and he was already looking at their menu. 

He looks like he doesn’t need any companions. Riki thought and pulled his phone out and there were no messages from Sunghoon. Riki hummed and started walking back, if Sunghoon wanted to be alone then he would be alone. Riki ignored the needles on his palm and hauled a taxi, telling the driver to take him to their hotel so he can sleep. Riki stared at the beach seeing parents with their own kids playing by the shore they looked like they were enjoying. Good for them. Riki initially thought and sighed. The driver looked at him weirdly but refused to talk. Maybe it was for the better, Riki hovered over the contact number of the Luau Manager and debated whether to cancel or reschedule their reservation. 

“Whatever you’re thinking, young one, don’t let it bug you. You’re in Hawaii, you should immerse yourself with the Hawaiian essence. Quit overthinking, okay? And do remember: Ukuli’l Ka Pua, Onaona I Ka Ma’u. Which directly translates to; Tiny is the flower, yet it scents the grasses around it.” 

When Riki got out of the cab, he tipped the driver and went up to their hotel room with an absent mind, blatantly ignoring the receptionist who greeted him. He didn’t know what came over him, he just left Sunghoon in the restaurant like that. “It’s better than to be rejected.” He told himself as he quickly changed his clothes and took his book out of his bag. Riki opened the sliding doors and laid on the lounge chair. If he wants to have his own time then i will too. He pouted, flipping the page to where he last bookmarked it. He tried to read the words that were in the book, but to no avail he had a hard time comprehending them. Groaning, he slammed the book close and placed it on the table. “Oh so, help me God.” He frowned and quickly stood up re-entering the room to only see Sunghoon. 

He was wearing a blue button up and white slacks, the blue button up was tucked neatly into his slacks, neat as ever. Riki gulped and looked up to Sunghoon. “Oh, you’re back. Did you enjoy your lunch? I didn’t you’ll be back this quick–” 

“Where have you been? I have been looking for you all over! Why did you leave without telling me?” Sunghoon shook Riki’s shoulder who just stared at him, eyes wide and shocked. “I-I thought you didn’t want me around so i just went back here. I s-supposed you needed some alone time and i feel like i was pushing you too hard, it was your birthday yet i was deciding on–” 

“You talk too much.” Sunghoon leaned in and gave Riki a kiss. “You nag at me early in the morning then you’ll leave me in an unknown street in broad daylight.” Riki blushed and looked away. He was still taken aback when Sunghoon kissed him. It was quick, it was just a smack yet he yearned for more. “Sunghoon.” Riki called out, he held the older’s cheeks making him focus on the younger in front of him. “Did you just kiss me?” 

Sunghoon froze, he gulped and looked away. “N-no?” He tried to ease his way out but Riki laughed. “You kissed me.” He whined and Sunghoon turned crimson. “Can I kiss you?” Riki asked this time, clearly forgetting about what happened earlier. “Yes, please.” Sunghoon whispered and finally leaned in, tilting his head, pulling Riki by the nape. He exhaled, letting his cool breath touch Riki’s lips and his heart raced, each beat louder than the last, each thump crashing his ear drums. Sunghoon leaned in, his lips a mere whisper away from Riki’s, hesitating as if savoring the moment. They stood close, the space between them charged with unspoken words. His eyes searched Sunghoon’s, wide eyes lingering on the curve of his smile as if contemplating, he had already seeked permission.What was stopping him now?

Then, with a tender certainty, their lips met—a gentle, lingering kiss that spoke of trust, longing, and a thousand unsaid words. Time seemed to pause, the world narrowing to just the two of them, the only thing that was on the mind of the two was to kiss and hold each other. No one in the world mattered other than the two of them Sunghoon held Riki’s jaw while he kissed the younger, full on the lips, savoring Riki’s soft and plump lips. 

“You don’t know how many times I refrained myself from kissing you.” Sunghoon spoke once their lips pulled apart, he licked his lips and started leaning in again, not giving Riki the chance to speak. “S-Sunghoon, wait. I have something to tell you.” Riki announced and pushed Sunghoon on the bed. “Is it important?” Sunghoon asked as he made grabby hands to Riki who laughed at his silly antics. “If i knew that kissing me would turn you into a good boy, i should’ve kissed you years ago.” 

“S-sunghoon!” Riki whined, swatting Sunghoon’s grabber hands away. “Listen to me first! I-i wanna say–” Sunghoon hummed while staring at Riki’s face. “W-what are we?” The older raised his right hand where their silver wedding ring was placed. “I’m married to you. I’m your husband.” “Is that why you kissed me, then?” 

“Well, yes and no.” Sunghoon caressed Riki’s hands, caging them with his own. “Yes because, you’re my husband. Park-Nishimura remember? And well…” He trailed on and looked away briefly. Is this the right time? He thought. “ There’s no right time, Sunghoon-ah. You gotta take the risk every time.” He remembered the phrase that his Grandpapa said and gulped. It’s now or never then. 

“Riki. I know we had been married for 3 years already and well i got pretty used to being with you, at first i thought that it’s because, well, we’re married. However, things started feeling different, especially when you started cooking dinners. I know that you've been taking work from home until now and I really liked it, you know? It feeds my ego to think that you are home, waiting for me. The Park-Nishimura Riki is waiting for me, in my kitchen and in my bedroom.” He rambled while Riki just looked at him and Sunghoon grabbed the chance to continue. 

“I liked you, Riki.I have liked you since I saw you dye your hair blond 4 years ago. You were so cute and fluffy, I swear I could eat your cheeks for lunch and then you would go around making everyone laugh, I liked that. I really like it when someone makes me laugh like a kid. It feels like home, that’s why ever since you started cooking home cooked meals from whatever place, from whatever youtube tutorial you’ve watched, i always come home. To me, Riki. You are my home.” 

“Y-you liked me? Past tense?” The younger grumbled, ignoring the heartfelt message Sunghoon squeezed out of his throat. “Yes, because now. I love you.” The elder blurted out, making Riki freeze in his place. Did Riki hear it correctly? Did Sunghoon just say he loves me? Riki pushed Sunghoon away and turned around, making the older one confused. “W-wha?” 

“This is not how i expected it to be!” Riki stomped on the carpeted floor and crossed his arms. “I was going to confess in the Luau then you went and ruined my plans, asking to eat in a restaurant of all places. We’re in Hawaii, Sunghoon! I wanted to eat some of their street foods so bad!” Sunghoon wasn’t comprehending Riki’s words, he tilted his head, trying to understand what Riki was saying. “Y-your plans? What?” 

“I was going to confess to you, at the Luau. I was going to tell you i love you! Stupid stupid Sunghoon.” Riki groaned, he tugged on his hair and looked down. “My plans are ruined.” He mopped and Sunghoon chuckled, endearing the younger’s tantrums. “I was going to be the one to tell you i love you!” He added making Sunghoon laugh even harder. “I don’t mind who gets to tell who, Riki-yah.” Sunghoon held Riki’s arm and forced the younger one to look at him. Their eyes met, mirroring each other’s longingness. “I don’t mind having to go to the Luau. As long as you tell me you love me.” 

“I love you, Sunghoon.” Riki blurted out, wide eyes staring into Sunghoon’s it feels like he was opening another portal in the hotel suite. A portal to the younger’s unconsciousness where Sunghoon was the only evident thing in the world. “I loved you ever since you helped me skate in the skating rink. It was your territory. I appreciated it when you helped me, slowly but surely. I remembered that you even brought your own skates then you let me wear those eye sore neon orange ones.”

“What can I do baby? You didn’t know how to use those, I had to make you wear one of the beginner friendly ones, and I love you, Riki.” Sunghoon gave Riki’s nose a kiss. “I love you, everyday.” Riki giggled. “I love you, too.” Let’s just say that everything Riki planned for the night was cancelled and the two let themselves sink into the cushions of their bed, cuddling for hours. 

This time, Sunghoon was the first one to wake up. He looked over to where Riki was, below him, clinging into his pajama shirt as if Sunghoon were to go missing, he smiled softly and pecked the younger’s cheek. “Happy birthday, riki.” He greeted and proceeded to kiss Riki’s forehead. “Sunghoon, it’s early in the morning. Stop slobbering over me.” Riki smacked Sunghoon’s arm making Sunghoon laugh at the younger’s antics. 

This. This is what Sunghoon liked about Riki. He can be mindful sometimes but he is an all natural, his facial expressions that he could not contain, his direct to the point words that would get Sunghoon all flabbergasted but it was something that Sunghoon liked and giggled over a lot. 

“Happy birthday. Come here.” Sunghoon tugged Riki on his lap and wrapped his arms around the younger. This awoke up the sleeping Riki, he quickly sat up, placing both of his palms on Sunghoon’s chest. “What are you doingggg!” He whined and tried to get out of Sunghoon’s lap. 

Keyword: tried. 

“I wanted to give you a hug~” 

“You were already hugging me a while ago!” Riki lashed out, all flustered. He liked clingy Sunghoon but not now. All he wanted was to sleep, Sunghoon kept him all awake last night, well, let’s just say that the older bugged Riko to tell him stories, stories about the books Riki read. 

“Do you read romance?” Riki asked, taking the book he shoved earlier back into his arms. Sunghoon hummed and patted the empty space where Riki was earlier. “Yep. I read one of your books once. It was Dear John by Nicholas Sparks.” 

“I haven’t read that one yet! How was it?” 

“You filled our office with books yet you haven’t read that one? Are you just hoarding books and not reading them?” 

“That’s none of your business!” Sunghoon poked Riki’s sides making the younger laugh harder, making the older smile as he pulled Riki back into his arms. Riki’s back was on Sunghoon’s chest, easily making Sunghoon nuzzle his nose into Riki’s neck. “I really adore your scent, y’know.” Riki rolled his eyes and opened the book. “Compliment me later. This is one of the books Mommy gave me for Christmas last year. It’s called You’ve Reached Sam.” 

“What’s it about?” Sunghoon leaned in, as he too, started reading into the book while he rested his head into Riki’s shoulder blades. 

“Come on, baby. Give Sunghoonie a hug.” Sunghoon pouted and Riki smacked his head. 

“No! Let me sleep!” Sunghoon hugged Riki from the back while the younger kept squirming and eventually he gave up, leaning into the older’s touch with a huff. “Happy Birthday, My Riki. I love you.” “Thank you, hoonie. I love you too.” 

Riki woke up for the second time that morning while still feeling Sunghoon’s arms around his waist, he turned to face Sunghoon who was also sleeping. He smiled and started to caress Sunghoon’s fluffy hair. Is this real? Are we in love? Riki started to think as he softly moved Sunghoon’s bangs away. If this is a dream, please do not wake me up. 

“I can hear you overthinking right here, baby. Please don’t let it consume you, I love you, nevertheless, okay?” It was enough. This was enough for Riki. He will trade everything just to be in Sunghoon’s arms just like this. He had been longing for this ever since he found himself falling for the older. These slow mornings, tending to each other like they’re the only ones in the world. Nothing matters but them. 

As for Riki’s birthday, Sunghoon decided that he will be dragged around by Riki and there he found themselves Street Food Hopping. Riki wanted to try everything but Sunghoon told him he can only get 4, including the dessert. Riki nodded and waddled away while Sunghoon waited for him at a covered table. 

Riki felt giddy, he had been eyeing these stalls since yesterday. He wanted to try the Poke Bowl! “Hi, Good Morning, can I please get a poke bowl for two?” He smiled, remembering Sunghoon with a little blush. The server nodded and Riki paid for the meal, he told the server that he’ll be back in a bit, Riki then proceeded to walk over another stall, the familiar savory taste of spam entered his mouth, awakening his tummy. As if on cue, he walked over and ordered Spam Musubi, lastly, he ordered Huli Huli Chicken, it was a Grilled chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings, often cooked on a rotating spit (huli huli means “turn turn” in Hawaiian), offering a delicious and aromatic street food option.It was nice watching the servers go in their full bliss while preparing their orders. Riki smiled at them, enamoured with the new understanding. 

While he was walking back, a tray in his hands, Two gorgeous women walked with him. “Have you seen that guy over there? That guy. The Korean, he looked nice didn't he? Don’t ya think he’s single?” Riki wasn’t paying attention to them at first until the second woman talked. 

“Oh, the one wearing the blue supreme 52 jersey?” Riki walked slowly, not wanting to burst the woman;s judgement as they walked over to Sunghoon who smiled at the sight of Riki, however, the two women misunderstood the situation, they thought Sunghoon was smiling at them . “H-hey. So i was thin–” Sunghoon didn’t pay any attention and just brushed her off, walking past them as he made a beeline over to Riki who was holding the tray. “There you are baby, what took you so long? I’m starving.” He loudly commented, making the two women jump and blush in surprise. As they comprehend the situation they quickly left, leaving the two husbands together. 

Riki blushed and looked away, giving Sunhoon the tray and started stomping on his way to their table with a huff making his husband chuckle at his cute antics. “I’m not jealous, i’m just pissed.” He bargained and Sunghoon placed his knuckles on his chin, giving Riki an endearing look. “Yeah? Whatever you say, gorgeous.” 

“Eat your food!” Riki blushed and pinched Sunghoon. “Happy birthday, happy birthday, happy birthday to you~” Sunghoon sang as he held the cake. He bought one in the nearest cake shop, making sure to customize it to Riki’s liking. “Make a wish.” Riki intertwined his hands together and tightly closed his eyes. 

I wish to be healthy and happy. I wish for a long fulfilling life, let me stay this way, let me face the waves of my own accord. Thank you for letting me live in the moment and thank you for giving me Sunghoon. Please keep me and my family safe. I am forever grateful. 

Riki opened his eyes and saw Sunghoon looking at him with soft eyes. He smiled and blew the candle out. “What did you wish for?” Sunghoon asked as he gave Riki a fork. “It’s a secret. It’s for me to know and for you to find out. Now eat up, you wouldn’t expect me to eat this all by myself right?” Sunghoon smiled. “If that’s what you want.” 

“Where do you wanna go?” Sunghoon asked after they finished eating the cake. Riki sighed, he wasn’t in the mood to wander around, plus the weather was making his skin feel sticky, it was stressing him out. And he needed an excuse to hug Sunghoon today so…… 

“Let’s go back to the hotel and watch some movies?” Riki looked at Sunghoon hopefully, who just laughed and ruffled his hair. “If that’s what my Riki wants.”  

—

Sunghoon sighed as he stared at the television screen that was now playing the movie Music and Lyrics . It was one of the rom-com classics that Riki loved, and honestly, Sunghoon couldn’t blame him. Sure, it was cheesy , and Sunghoon doesn’t like cheesy things but it's Riki– Oh Riki.

 Riki’s eyes were glued to the screen, his lips unconsciously mouthing the lyrics to “Way Back Into Love,” and Sunghoon found himself smiling without realizing it.

Riki had this way of lighting up even the most mundane of moments. It wasn’t just his infectious laugh or the way he could get excited about the simplest things, like finished interior designs and takeaway pizza; it was how effortlessly he made everything feel lighter. There are times when it felt so heavy for Sunghoon, like he was constantly carrying expectations on his shoulders, but with Riki, it was different. Riki was like a gentle breeze that reminded him to breathe.

Watching him now, so engrossed in the movie, Sunghoon felt a pang in his chest—one that was both unfamiliar and comforting. How did someone so radiant choose to share their light with him? Sunghoon wasn’t sure he deserved it, but he wasn’t about to question it either.

It wasn’t even about grand gestures or dramatic declarations of love. It was moments like these—Riki leaning against him on the couch, feet tucked under a blanket, head resting lightly on his shoulder—that made Sunghoon feel like he was exactly where he needed to be.

He glanced down at Riki, who had now started humming along to the song playing on the screen, and a thought crossed his mind that caught him off guard. This...this is what happiness feels like.

“There are moments when I don't know if it's real or if anybody feels the way I feel. I need inspiration, not just another negotiation. ” Riki hummed as he leaned into Sunghoon’s heat, inching his body closer until he almost–well, barely sat on Sunghoon’s laugh making the older giggle once again. “Come here, babe.” Riki shrieked when Sunghoon pulled him on his lap, locking his arms on Riki’s waist as he rested his chin on Sunghoon’s shoulder. Riki on the other hand sat properly and faced Sunghoon. “Are you real?” He asked, tapping Sunghoon’s cheek with a cheeky smile. 

His husband was gorgeous, he looked like he came straight from a novel. Thick eyebrows, sharp nose and his in depth eyes that were always evident with emotions, it was Riki’s favorite thing to stare at. Everytime he stayed in their office while Sunghoon drew clothes he would always look at his eyes and he could see that Sunghoon was happy and content. He was doing what he was good at and he looks happy when he’s working. “Of Course, I'm real, Riki-yah.” He answered softly, caressing Riki’s cheek with a small smile. 

“--s find a way back into love, I can't make it through without a way back into love and if I open my heart to you, I'm hoping you'll show me what to do and if you help me to start again you know that I'll be there for you in the end” Riki sang as he played with Sunghoon’s hair, scratching his head here and there. “If I open my heart to you, can you show me what to do?” Sunghoon quoted and leaned into Riki with a soft smile, Riki paused, his hand still tangled in Sunghoon's hair, as he turned to meet his gaze. There was something unspoken in the way their eyes locked—something soft and certain, like the quiet promise in the lyrics they had just shared. Sunghoon leaned closer, their breaths mingling, and Riki's lips curved into a smile before they met him.

It started slow, like the first note of a song, tender and tentative, but quickly deepened into something more. Riki's hand slid to cup Sunghoon's jaw, while Sunghoon’s fingers found their way to Riki’s waist, pulling him closer. The world around them—the movie, the cluttered coffee table, the flickering light from the screen—faded into the background. All that mattered was this moment, this warmth, and the way their hearts seemed to beat in perfect harmony.

When they finally broke apart, Riki rested his forehead against Sunghoon’s, his breath hitching but his smile never faltering. “See? I can show you what to do,” Riki teased, his voice barely above a whisper.

Sunghoon chuckled, his hand tracing idle patterns on Riki’s back. “Guess I’m a fast learner.”

As the movie continued to play unnoticed, Sunghoon pulled Riki closer, feeling more at peace than he ever thought possible. Maybe happiness wasn’t about grand gestures or dramatic moments. Maybe it was about finding someone who could sing you back into love—again and again.

x: 0hzrik1