Archive of Our Own

Jungwon woke up later than he should have.

His phone alarm had gone off multiple times, but in a half-asleep haze, he'd silenced it and rolled back under the covers, completely forgetting he had a 9 a.m. class. The room was still dim, the curtains drawn, and his bed far too warm to leave.

If it hadn’t been for his older brother knocking like a madman, Jungwon would’ve blissfully slept through the whole morning.

“Jungwon! Get up and eat!” The pounding on his bedroom door was almost violent, and it made Jungwon jolt upright in bed, heart racing. He scrambled for his phone and blinked at the screen.

8:00 a.m.

“Oh, shit!” he groaned, ruffling his hair in frustration. “Hyung! Why didn’t you wake me earlier? I’ve got class at nine!”

From the hallway, his brother’s voice was maddeningly unbothered. “How was I supposed to know your schedule? Now move it, breakfast is ready!”

Jungwon didn’t waste another second. He jumped out of bed and rushed to the bathroom, splashing cold water on his face in an effort to shake off the drowsiness. He threw on the first clothes he saw: a pair of worn jeans, a loose-fitting sleeveless tee, and his favorite gray hoodie—creased and crumpled from yesterday, but comfortable.

Grabbing his phone and charger, he stuffed them into his bag. Before heading out, he paused in front of the mirror and ran his fingers through his bed hair. It helped a little.

Not much.

His face was still puffy, his expression still half-asleep. He was out of time, he has no time to fix himself.

He clattered down the stairs and into the kitchen, where someone was already seated at the table, phone in one hand and a half-eaten sandwich in the other. The man looked up and smiled warmly.

“Oh, Jungwon. Heading out already?” he asked, setting his phone aside. “Come eat something first.”

That was Kim Jungwoo, his brother’s boyfriend, and a familiar presence around the house. Jungwoo lived nearby and had practically become part of the family. Seeing him here in the early morning, still in his pajamas, scrolling through his insta account while munching on breakfast, wasn’t even surprising anymore.

Jungwon sat down and grabbed a sandwich from the plate on the table. “Where’s Jaehyun-hyung?” he asked, taking a huge bite. “I need a ride. I’m gonna be so late.”

“He forgot his bag and went upstairs to get it,” Jungwoo replied, sipping his coffee. “Slow down, you’re not racing anyone. I’m not letting you choke on your own breakfast.”

Jungwon gave a muffled grumble in response but obeyed, chewing more carefully.

A minute later, Jaehyun came down the stairs, dressed sharply in a button-up shirt, a navy tie, and slacks, his bag slung over one shoulder like he’d stepped straight out of a fashion commercial.

“You ready or not?” he asked, tossing his keys in the air.

“Yes! Let’s go!” Jungwon stood up immediately, eyes wide with relief.

But Jaehyun didn’t move toward the door just yet. Instead, he walked over to Jungwoo and leaned down to kiss his forehead.

“Want me to drop you off too?” he asked gently.

Jungwoo shook his head with a smile. “I start work at ten today, so I’ve got time. But thanks.”

Then he turned to Jungwon. “Hey, be careful, okay? And if anyone gives you trouble, tell your hyung. We’ll deal with them.”

Jungwon rolled his eyes, already hoisting his backpack over his shoulder. “You both need to stop treating me like I’m twelve. I’m not a kid anymore.”

“Sure, sure,” Jungwoo chuckled, reaching over to pat his head affectionately. “But I’m still buying dinner for you tonight, so don’t get home too late.”

Jungwon mumbled something that sounded like agreement, cheeks faintly pink as he turned away. Jaehyun only grinned and led him out the door.

Jungwon slipped into the lecture hall five minutes late, heart still racing from his frantic morning.

To his immense relief, the professor hadn’t arrived yet. He exhaled slowly, like he’d just dodged a bullet, and sank into his usual seat by the window. His backpack hit the desk with a soft thud as he dropped it beside him.

In front of him sat Niki, already settled in, back straight, notebook open. He turned just slightly, giving Jungwon a once-over. “You look like you lost a fight with someone,” he remarked dryly.

“Thanks,” Jungwon muttered, running a hand through his hair again, as if that would fix the mess.

Niki shook his head, his mouth twitching into a faint smirk before he turned back to whatever he was doing. Jungwon took a moment to catch his breath, letting the stillness of the classroom calm the chaos still buzzing in his head.

His eyes lingered on Niki’s back. They’d been friends since freshman year, ever since Jungwon sat next to him in their intro communications class and awkwardly complimented his handwriting. Niki had scoffed, called him weird, but ended up sharing his notes anyway. That was the start of it.

Niki was blunt, a little aloof, and gave off the impression that he didn’t care about anything, but Jungwon knew better. He was one of the real ones: loyal, unexpectedly thoughtful, and fun in a chaotic, dry-humor kind of way. They’d gotten even closer after discovering they both loved dancing, eventually enrolling in the university’s contemporary dance elective together. It became one of the few places where Jungwon could fully be himself.

The door creaked open again, drawing Jungwon’s attention. He straightened in his seat, expecting the professor to come in.

It wasn’t.

It was Jay.

He strolled in like he owned the place; unbothered, confident, and effortlessly good-looking. He wore a black button-up layered over a soft gray t-shirt, the collar open just enough to reveal a glimpse of his collarbone. His dark jeans fit perfectly, hugging long legs that seemed made for runways rather than lecture halls.

Jungwon’s breath caught for half a second.

Of course, he had to look perfect while Jungwon looked like he’d rolled out of bed during an earthquake.

From the seat in front of him, Niki let out a low chuckle. “Try not to drool. He’s just a guy, not a god.”

“I wasn’t staring,” Jungwon hissed under his breath.

“Whatever helps you sleep at night, babe.” Niki said, his tone teasing.

Of everyone on campus, only Niki and Sunoo knew about Jungwon’s crush on Jay. And it wasn’t just a fleeting little admiration. No, this had been a slow-burn thing, building over semesters of group projects, stolen glances, and those brief, harmless conversations in between classes that Jungwon always replayed in his head like a scene from a movie.

Jay wasn’t just good-looking, though that was definitely part of it. He was charming in an easy, unforced way. Always kind. Always smiling. The type of guy who remembered people’s names and offered to share his notes without being asked. Even though he carried himself like someone who had it all figured out, he somehow still felt approachable. Real.

Jungwon had his number. They’d texted a few times—mostly about assignments—but nothing beyond that. But he wanted more. Wanted to know what made Jay laugh uncontrollably, what music he listened to on rainy days, what his favorite meal was when he was homesick.

But for now, all he could do was watch from a distance.

Jay moved to the back of the classroom, offering a few friendly nods and greeting people along the way. Jungwon forced himself to look away, fingers tightening around his pen as if it could ground him in reality.

And then the door opened again. This time with the distinct shuffle of papers and the clack of hard shoes against tile.

The professor had arrived.

Jungwon snapped out of his daze and sat up straighter, trying to shake the haze of butterflies still flapping around in his stomach.

For now, he needed to focus. Daydreams (and his crush towards a handsome looking classmate) could wait.

“Cafeteria first, or straight to Sunoo’s?” Niki asked, already slinging his bag over one shoulder as he waited by Jungwon’s desk.

Jungwon zipped up his backpack and stood with a groan. “Cafeteria. I’m starving. I didn’t even get to taste my breakfast this morning.”

He wasn’t exaggerating, he’d basically inhaled half a sandwich while still half-asleep, and it had tasted like cardboard.

They were just about to leave when a voice called out behind them.

“Hey!”

Jungwon froze mid-step. His heart did a full somersault in his chest as he heard a familiar voice. He turned slowly—like he already knew who it was—and yep. There he was.

Jay.

He walked toward them with a relaxed wave, his expression friendly and open. The afternoon light from the hallway window hit him at just the right angle, highlighting the edges of his face. It was almost cinematic. Of course it was.

Jungwon’s brain short-circuited. “Uh… hi?” he replied, instantly regretting how awkward he sounded. “Do you need something?”

Jay stopped in front of them, hands in his pockets. “Yeah. So, the professor mentioned earlier that you and I got paired for that media studies project. You know, the one about analyzing digital storytelling something?”

Oh. Right. That group assignment. Jungwon had been too busy zoning out and watching Jay exist during class to absorb much of what the professor said.

“Ah. Yeah,” he nodded, trying not to look as flustered as he felt. “When would you like to start?”

“I’ve got basketball practice Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays,” Jay said, counting off on his fingers. “So those days are out. What about you? When’s good?”

“I can work around your schedule,” Jungwon said quickly. “Today is fine... or Saturday, if that’s better?”

Jay chuckled softly, and it wasn’t mocking, more like warm, maybe even fond? No. That had to be Jungwon’s imagination. No way Jay found his awkwardness endearing. “Saturday’s good.”

“Okay,” Jungwon replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Cool. See you then,” Jay said with a smile that should’ve been studied by scientists. “Oh, bye, Niki.”

And with that, he gave them both a casual wave and walked away, his figure disappearing down the hallway like some kind of scene-ending exit shot.

Jungwon stood frozen, blinking at where Jay had just been. The only sound was the thudding of his own heartbeat in his ears.

“I didn’t embarrass myself, right?” he finally asked, turning to Niki, who looked entirely too amused.

“You’re kidding, right?” Niki snorted. “He only called your name. He looked at you. I was standing right there and he barely acknowledged me.”

But Jungwon wasn’t even listening. His heart was pounding, cheeks warm, and he could still smell Jay’s cologne; a clean, subtle citrusy scent that made his knees a little weak.

Then a horrifying thought hit him like a brick.

“Shit,” he muttered, eyes widening. “I must’ve looked awful.”

He tugged at the hem of his hoodie, suddenly hyper-aware of how wrinkled and tired he looked. This wasn’t how he imagined talking to Jay for the first time outside of class.

Niki rolled his eyes. “Oh my god, I swear, Jay is not out here thinking you looked awful.”

“You didn’t see me this morning. My face was literally swollen.”

“You looked like a normal human being,” Niki said flatly. “Come on. You said you were hungry, remember?”

Jungwon hesitated for a second longer, then sighed and nodded. As they headed toward the cafeteria, he couldn’t help but smile—small, secret, and maybe a little stupid.

Saturday.

He had until Saturday to pull himself together.

Classes ended at three, but instead of heading home, Jungwon and Niki decided to hang out at Sunoo’s place for a few hours. They only left around seven in the evening, long after the sun had dipped behind the skyline and the streets began to glow with the soft shimmer of streetlights.

It was routine, really. On days when class finished early, Jungwon almost never went straight home. He’d linger around campus, drag Niki to a café, or end up on Sunoo’s couch until it got too late to stay. Anywhere was better than going back to an empty house.

Because that’s what it usually was. Quiet, still, and empty.

Jaehyun rarely got home before nine, sometimes later, depending on how late work held him. And while Jungwoo did drop by often, he had his own job, too. On the days when neither of them was around, the silence at home felt too loud. Too heavy.

Jungwon didn’t like being alone with his thoughts.

But today, as he turned the key and stepped inside, the familiar quiet wasn’t there. Instead, the sound of the TV filled the living room, soft laughter from a sitcom playing in the background. And there, sitting cross-legged on the couch with a takeout box in front of him, was Jungwoo.

“Jungwonie, come eat!” Jungwoo called out with a bright smile, holding up a slice of pizza. “I texted you earlier but you didn’t reply, so I figured I’d just bring food.”

On the coffee table sat a still-warm pizza box and a bottle of cola, condensation clinging to the sides like it had been waiting just for him.

A small smile tugged at Jungwon’s lips. He dropped his bag by the couch and sat beside Jungwoo, the warmth from the older man’s presence already washing over him like a soft blanket. “Since when have you been here, hyung?”

“Since six,” Jungwoo replied between bites. “Came straight after work. How was your day?” he asked, gesturing at the remote.

Jungwon took the cola, unscrewing the cap. “Same old stuff,” he said, sipping slowly.

He glanced sideways at Jungwoo, watching the way he absentmindedly wiped crumbs off his fingers, eyes still on the screen but always half-aware of Jungwon’s presence.

Jungwoo was kind. In a quiet, steady way that never asked for anything in return. It wasn’t just today, whenever Jungwon needed something, no matter how small, Jungwoo would somehow know. Whether it was bringing him meds when he caught a cold, helping him with his laptop when it crashed before a deadline, or just keeping him company on days when the silence felt unbearable. Jungwoo was there.

Sometimes Jungwon wondered if it was Jaehyun who told Jungwoo to look after him like this. But most of the time, it didn’t feel like an obligation. It felt real. Like Jungwoo simply wanted to care for him.

He was sweet, gentle, and even a little goofy at times, like when he tried to act cool but ended up tripping over the rug or forgetting where he parked his car.

Jungwon looked at him again, feeling that familiar tug in his chest. Just like Jaehyun, Jungwoo had become one of the pillars in his life. Someone he could lean on without feeling like a burden.

And to think, when Jaehyun had first introduced Jungwoo as his boyfriend, Jungwon hated him.

He had sat stiffly on the other end of the couch that day, arms crossed, lips pursed. The idea of someone else sharing Jaehyun’s attention—someone who might take it all away—had filled him with a sharp, irrational fear. Jaehyun had always been his rock, his one constant. He didn’t want that to change.

But it hadn’t.

If anything, Jungwoo had somehow expanded the warmth in their lives. He didn’t replace him, he didn’t take Jaehyun’s attention from him. Jungwoo simply joined them, becoming someone just as comforting, just as safe.

And Jungwon glad to have him in his life.

They sat side by side on the couch, the pizza nearly half-eaten, a quiet sitcom playing in the background. Jungwon had curled his legs up beside him, slowly sipping from his drink, starting to relax in the comfortable warmth of the evening.

Jungwoo stretched his arms above his head, letting out a soft yawn before turning his gaze toward Jungwon with a curious glint in his eye.

“So,” he began casually, his voice playful, “Anything new going on lately? New friends? Or maybe a boyfriend?”

Jungwon nearly choked on his drink. He coughed a little, quickly setting the bottle down and wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. His heart skipped a beat—no, maybe two—as his mind immediately flashed to him.

Jay.

That soft, crooked smile. His voice when he said, 'See you Saturday, Jungwon.', or the way his shirt hugged his frame just a little too well earlier today.

Jungwon felt his ears grow hot. He looked away quickly. “N-no. No! I don’t have a boyfriend,” he said too fast, too panicked, his voice almost cracking.

Jungwoo raised a brow, amused. “Uh-huh,” he said knowingly, tilting his head. “You sure about that?”

“Yes! I mean—” Jungwon exhaled, struggling to compose himself. “You know my friends. Just Niki and Sunoo. That’s it.”

“Mhm,” Jungwoo hummed, squinting at him. Then, with a teasing smile, he added, “Well, your face tell something, it is all red.”

Jungwon groaned and buried his face into the throw pillow beside him, muffling his next words. “You’re imagining things.”

But Jungwoo leaned in a little, resting his chin on his hand with a cheeky grin. “Okay, no boyfriend. Yet. But maybe some crush?”

Jungwon peeked over the pillow, his eyes narrowed. “Why are you so nosy today?”

“Because I care about you,” Jungwoo replied with a warm shrug. “And I can tell when something’s going on. You’ve been spacing out since you got home.”

Jungwon hesitated. He hated how easily Jungwoo could read him. But somehow, it was also comforting. Like having someone who always knew when to ask, but never pushed too hard.

He sighed and sat up again, pulling the pillow onto his lap. “It’s nothing serious. There’s this guy in my class. Jay.”

Jungwoo’s eyes lit up. “Ooh. Is he tall? Handsome, charming?”

Jungwon groaned again. “Yes, yes, all of that. But it’s not like that! We just talked a bit today. We’re in the same group for an assignment.”

“And you like him.”

Jungwon didn’t answer. But he didn’t need to. His silence said enough.

Jungwoo softened, his teasing smile melting into something more sincere. “That’s sweet,” he said gently. “I hope he’s nice to you.”

Jungwon nodded slowly. “He is. I mean, I think so. He’s popular, but he’s also warm. And funny. And he actually remembered my name.”

Jungwoo leaned back, arms crossed as he listened quietly.

“It’s probably just a small crush,” Jungwon added quickly. “He’s way out of my league anyway.”

Jungwoo clicked his tongue. “Don’t say that. Anyone would be lucky to have you, you know.”

Jungwon looked at him, surprised.

“I mean it,” Jungwoo continued. “You’re kind, thoughtful, and you’ve got a good heart. And you’re not bad-looking either,” he teased, giving Jungwon’s shoulder a playful nudge. “You’re pretty, too.”

A shy smile tugged at Jungwon’s lips. “Thanks, hyung.”

Jungwoo grinned. “Now I’m even more excited to hear how your study session goes. Should I prepare snacks for the sleepover you’ll need afterward to overanalyze everything he says?”

“Oh my god,” Jungwon laughed, burying his face again, this time out of embarrassment and amusement. “You’re the worst.”

“I'm the best,” Jungwoo corrected proudly. “The best at being your hyung.”

And somehow, even though his crush still felt like a tangled mess of nerves and uncertainty, Jungwon felt a little lighter. A little braver.

Because no matter what happened with Jay, he knew he had someone in his corner, cheering him on.

“Our Jungwonie has a crush.”

Jaehyun froze mid-movement, his fingers still tangled in the buttons of his dress shirt. He turned his head slowly toward Jungwoo, who was sitting cross-legged on the bed, a mischievous sparkle in his eyes.

“What?”

Jungwoo grinned, clearly enjoying himself. “I said, our little Jungwon finally admitted he has a crush.”

Jaehyun stared at him in disbelief, shirt forgotten. “Who? When? How?”

Jungwoo leaned back on his palms, his voice light and teasing. “It was during dinner. I teased him a little and his face's suddenly got red, stammering, full-blown panic. It was adorable, though. Like watching a baby deer realize it has legs.”

Jaehyun groaned, rubbing a hand over his face. “No. Absolutely not. He can’t have a crush. He’s still a baby.”

Jungwoo burst out laughing. “Jaehyun. He’s literally in college.”

“He was just twelve the last time I remember him liking someone,” Jaehyun insisted. “Back when he came out and said he liked boys, and he blushed every time he saw that neighbor kid from across the street. Remember that?”

Jungwoo chuckled fondly. “Yeah, and now he's blushing for someone new. Time flies, huh?”

Jaehyun looked troubled, like the thought of Jungwon growing up was a personal offense. “He’s still too young.”

“Oh my God,” Jungwoo muttered, shaking his head. “He’s nineteen. He’s old enough to drive, have coffee at 2 a.m., and yes, bring home a boyfriend if he wants to.”

Jaehyun frowned, crossing his arms. “He can bring home a boyfriend over my dead body.”

Jungwoo snorted. “You act like he’s getting married tomorrow. It’s just a crush.”

“A crush can lead to feelings, and feelings lead to heartbreak,” Jaehyun argued dramatically, turning to face Jungwoo fully. “And heartbreak leads to sad playlists and sleeping all day and crying on my shoulder.”

Jungwoo raised an eyebrow. “You say that like you didn’t literally do all of that when we fought last month.”

Jaehyun blinked, betrayed. “That’s different. I’m a grown man.”

“Uh-huh. A grown man who cried into my hoodie while listening to Arctic Monkey and being dramatic,” Jungwoo teased, smirking.

Jaehyun pointed a finger at him. “You swore you’d never bring that up.”

“And yet here we are.”

They stared at each other for a moment before both of them burst into laughter. Jaehyun finally sat down on the edge of the bed, still chuckling but shaking his head.

“I just… I don’t know. I still remember when he used to ask me to carry him to bed after he fell asleep on the couch. He’d wrap those tiny arms around my neck and mumble, ‘hyung, don’t let go’.”

Jungwoo’s smile softened. He reached out, gently taking Jaehyun’s hand. “And he still loves you just as much now. But you have to let him grow up, Jae. Let him stumble, let him blush, let him fall in love.”

Jaehyun exhaled, staring at the floor. “It just makes me feel like I’m losing him.”

“You’re not,” Jungwoo said, voice warm. “You’ll always be his hyung. No crush, boyfriend, or husband will ever change that.”

Jaehyun finally looked up and met Jungwoo’s gaze. “You think I’m being overprotective, huh?”

“I think you’re being adorable,” Jungwoo said with a grin. “But maybe let's just tone it down, yeah? Unless you want to scare away every boy who even looks at Jungwon.”

“I do.”

“Too bad,” Jungwoo laughed, standing up and pulling Jaehyun by the arm. “Now finish changing. I’m stealing you for a movie night.”

Jaehyun allowed himself to be pulled up, grumbling the whole way. “If I ever meet this guy, I swear—”

“Jaehyun,” Jungwoo interrupted, raising a brow.

“Fine. I’ll be civil.”

“That’s all I ask.”

“Until he breaks his heart.”

“Jaehyun!”

Saturday morning arrived with a soft breeze drifting through the open windows, rustling the curtains like a gentle wake-up call. Jungwon was already awake—before his alarm, even. That never happened. But today wasn’t just any day. Today, Jay was coming over.

He spent at least twenty minutes frozen in front of his closet, battling a minor identity crisis. Hoodie? Too casual. Button-up? Too obvious. Sweater? Maybe? Yes. A soft beige sweater that complimented his skin tone and brought out the warm honey in his eyes. Paired with fitted jeans make him snug enough to look good, but not scream desperate.

He’d just finished brushing his hair for the second time when his bedroom door opened without warning. Typical Jaehyun.

“So, who’s coming today? Sunoo?” Jaehyun asked, leaning against the doorframe like a rom-com older brother stereotype, arms folded and smirk locked and loaded.

Jungwon froze mid-brush, like a deer in headlights. “No,” he said, voice high and way too fast. “Just a friend. We have a project. School stuff.”

Jaehyun raised an eyebrow. “A friend, huh?” His eyes flicked from Jungwon’s outfit to his freshly styled hair. “You’re telling me this ‘friend’ has nothing to do with why you look like you’re about to film a soft-boy music video?”

Jungwon groaned, cheeks burning. “Hyung, please don’t start.”

“I’m not starting, I’m just observing,” Jaehyun said innocently, though the teasing in his tone was unmistakable. “Also, let’s not pretend like you didn’t coordinate your socks. Even I don’t match my socks whenever my friends come here.”

Jungwon shoved him lightly. “Can you please get out? I still have to get ready.”

“Why? You already look like a walking Pinterest board.”

Jungwon narrowed his eyes, shoving harder this time.

Jaehyun took one step back but didn’t leave. “So, what’s his name? This mysterious friend?”

Jungwon sighed in defeat. “Jay. His name is Jay.”

Jaehyun blinked. “Jay,” he repeated slowly, like he was rolling the name around in his mouth. “Hm, interesting. Sounds like a heartbreaker. Is he cute?”

“Hyung!”

“I mean, if you’re gonna let someone into this house, I need to know if he’s worth the candle you lit downstairs.”

“I just wanted the place to smell nice!”

“Sure. Vanilla sugar cookie vibes because it’s totally normal to seduce your study partner with ambience,” Jaehyun said with a grin. “If this Jay guy turns out to be your boyfriend, I’m sitting him down for an interview. I want names, addresses, intentions, star sign—”

“Hyung!”

“—blood type, Spotify Wrapped, favorite ramyeon flavor—”

With a cry of sheer embarrassment, Jungwon physically pushed Jaehyun out into the hallway, slamming the door behind him.

“Okay, okay, I’m going!” Jaehyun laughed from the other side. “But if I hear giggles coming from the dining room, he’s out.”

Leaning against the door, Jungwon let out a long, exhausted breath. His heart was racing and his face felt like it had been left out in the sun for hours.

“God, please,” he muttered, clutching the collar of his sweater. “Please let today go well. And please, please, don’t let Jay ever talk to my brother.”

Lucky for Jungwon, Jaehyun had left the house just thirty minutes ago—apparently needing to pick something up at the store. But what really happened was that Jungwoo, like the angel he was, had texted Jaehyun and offered to take him out for lunch. Said it was to ‘spend time together’ but Jungwon knew better.

He was going to buy Jungwoo something nice later. A coffee, a cake, maybe his soul—anything to thank him for saving today.

Because if Jaehyun were still here when Jay arrived, God, he’d never let it go. Worse, he might actually scare Jay off with those ‘older brother interrogations’ he always threatened.

Jungwon paced a little in front of the sofa, checking the time for what felt like the hundredth time. He’s not late, he reminded himself. You’re just stupidly early because you’ve been nervous since 7 a.m.

When the doorbell rang, Jungwon jumped a little, heart thudding against his ribs like it was trying to run away. He smoothed down his sweater, took a quick breath, and opened the door.

There he was.

Jay stood in the sunlight, a warm, easy smile spread across his face, and Jungwon nearly forgot how to breathe. “Hi,” Jay greeted, lifting the paper bag in his hand. “Sorry I’m a bit late. I brought some cake and drinks. I hope that’s okay?”

Jungwon blinked, his brain buffering like a broken webpage.

Jay looked handsome as always. The sunlight hit him just right. His navy polo hugging his shoulders perfectly, tucked neatly into a pair of soft grey slacks. His hair, usually a little tousled, was gelled back today, showing off his sharp jawline and expressive eyes. The soft light kissed his tan skin, making him glow like something out of a summer dream.

Jungwon barely registered that his knees were trembling. Get it together! he screamed internally.

“Um, you didn’t have to bring anything,” he stammered, stepping aside. “But, thank you! That’s really nice of you. Please come in.”

Jay nodded with that gentle smile still lingering on his lips. “Thanks.”

They walked into the living room together, where the sunlight poured through the curtains and danced softly on the wooden floor. Jungwon gestured toward the coffee table. “You can put it there. Oh, um, sorry if it smells a bit sweet, I lit a candle earlier. Thought it might make things more… I don’t know, cozy.”

Jay placed the bag down and tilted his head, sniffing the air lightly. “Is that vanilla?”

Jungwon flushed. “Yeah,” he rubbed the back of his neck. “It’s, uh, sugar cookie-something. I swear I didn’t do it just because you were coming over.”

Jay chuckled, unzipping the cake box. “Hey, I like it. Feels warm in here. Like homey.”

Jungwon felt that. Like home. His heart swelled a little in his chest, too big for his body.

“Thanks,” he said softly, avoiding Jay’s eyes in fear that looking too long might give him away. “I didn’t want the place to feel stiff.”

Jay opened two drink bottles and handed one to Jungwon before sitting down on the sofa, his long legs folding effortlessly. “You’re sweet, Jungwon,” he said casually. “You really thought this through.”

Jungwon sat beside him, not too close, but not too far either. Just enough to feel the warmth radiating from Jay’s shoulder.

He looked at his drink, then at Jay, then at the cake. Then back to Jay. This was really happening.

And somehow, the candle, the cake, and Jay’s cologne all melted into something so intoxicatingly comfortable.

“So,” Jay turned to him with a playful look. “What should we start with? Homework or cake first?”

Jungwon laughed, and his nerves settled, just a little. “Cake. I think I need sugar to survive this study session.”

“Perfect,” Jay grinned. “Let’s eat first, then.”

“Let me get you a plate. Just a sec.”

Jungwon quickly excused himself to the kitchen, doing his best to walk like his heart wasn’t about to leap out of his chest. The second he turned the corner, he gripped the edge of the counter and exhaled sharply. Calm down. It’s just Jay. It’s just cake. You’re just being weird.

He opened a drawer and grabbed two small plates and dessert forks, catching a glimpse of his own reflection in the microwave door. His cheeks were still pink. He pressed a hand to his chest, hoping to quiet the storm happening inside.

This is fine. It’s normal. You’re normal. You are two classmates eating cake and doing some tasks together. Nothing more. Nothing less.

Yeah. Except everything felt like more.

When he returned to the living room, Jay looked up from his seat on the rug and smiled. That smile, the soft one that lit up his whole face, the one that always made Jungwon feel like the sun came out just for him.

Jay patted the coffee table. “Thanks,” he said as Jungwon set the plates down and joined him.

With casual care, Jay sliced a piece of cake and placed it on Jungwon’s plate, then served himself. “Do you like chocolate cake?” he asked, already offering him a fork. "I'm sorry I didn't ask you first. I bought the safest option and think you might like it."

Jungwon nodded, tucking a stray hair behind his ear. “Yeah. I love it.”

Jay’s grin widened. “Good. I wasn’t sure what you liked, so chocolate was really the safest bet. Everyone likes chocolate, right?”

I like you. Jungwon thought, then mentally slapped the idea out of his brain so fast he almost got whiplash. He forced a small laugh. “Yeah. Chocolate is safe.”

They started eating, and the tension slowly melted into the shared rhythm of conversation, mostly about the assignment, though only one of them seemed truly focused on it. Jay pointed at diagrams and highlighted paragraphs. Jungwon nodded along, but his eyes kept drifting.

To Jay’s hands. The way his fingers moved when he explained something. The way his watch sat snug on his wrist. To the little furrow of his brow when he was deep in thought, or the faint tilt of his head when he was listening.

He’s not even trying and he’s still perfect.

Jay was flipping a page in their textbook when he casually asked, “So, do you live here alone?”

Jungwon blinked, snapped out of his quiet admiration. “Oh, no. I live with my brother. But he’s out right now.” And hopefully won’t come back until you leave, he added silently.

Jay looked around, nodding. “Ah. So, your parents?”

“I don’t live with them,” Jungwon said, keeping his tone light. “It’s just me and my brother now. We don’t really have parents anymore.”

Jay froze for a second, spoon mid-air. His eyes softened with instant regret. “I’m sorry, Jungwon. I didn’t mean to—”

“It’s okay,” Jungwon interrupted gently, managing a small, practiced smile. “You didn’t know. It’s not something people usually talk about.”

Jay still looked like he’d stepped on something fragile. The concern in his eyes made Jungwon’s chest ache, but not in a bad way.

So, as naturally as he could, Jungwon shifted the conversation. “I heard you’re entering that basketball competition.”

Jay blinked, caught off guard. “Really? From who?”

“Sunoo,” Jungwon replied, relieved at the new topic. “He’s my friend. And he’s dating your friend.”

Jay laughed softly, nodding. “Ah, Sunoo. Sunghoon’s boyfriend. Right.” He paused, then tilted his head. “I didn’t know you were close with Sunoo.”

“I didn’t know you were close with Sunoo,” Jay said, still smiling. There was a hint of surprise in his tone, and it made Jungwon’s stomach dip a little.

Of course you didn’t know. They weren’t exactly close, were they?

Jungwon returned the smile, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Yeah, well, I guess there’s a lot we don’t know about each other.”

There was a short pause. The kind that’s not awkward, but full of something unspoken. Jay looked at him, his expression unreadable for a moment.

Then he leaned forward slightly, resting his elbow on the table. “Guess we’ve got time to fix that.”

Jungwon’s heart flipped.

For a second, it felt like the world paused. Like maybe—just maybe—Jay saw him, really saw him. Not just as the quiet boy in class, but as something more.

Jungwon smiled back, this time without effort. “Yeah,” he said softly. “I’d like that.”

They turned back to their open books, the air between them now humming with something delicate and new. Even the candle flickering nearby seemed to glow warmer, like it, too, was in on the moment. As Jay began explaining a tricky part of their assignment, leaning in slightly, his shoulder almost brushing Jungwon’s, Jungwon felt it again, that fluttering hope in his chest.

He let it stay, just for a while.

They were almost done.

The assignment sat open in front of them, a half-finished document with more red scribbles than actual content. Jay leaned back, stretching his arms above his head with a quiet groan. “I think my brain just melted.”

Jungwon laughed, slumping onto the table. “Mine melted like an hour ago. We should stop before we start writing nonsense.”

Jay nodded, closing his laptop. “Agreed. Let’s call it a day and finish the rest tomorrow or something.”

And just like that, the mood shifted to something lighter, easier. Without the pressure of deadlines hanging over them, they just talked. About random things. Childhood memories. High school teachers they loved to hate. Jay’s embarrassing middle school haircut. Jungwon’s brief obsession with taekwondo.

The more Jay spoke, the more Jungwon realized how much he didn’t know about him. And how much he wanted to know.

He found himself laughing more than usual, asking questions just to keep Jay talking. Maybe they wouldn’t end up dating—maybe that was wishful thinking—but if this moment could turn into a real friendship, that would be enough for Jungwon.

Almost.

Then, just when everything was warm and perfect, fate decided to ruin it.

The front door opened. Jungwon’s heart sank when he heard it.

Footsteps. Voices. And then—

“Jungwon, we bought—oh.”

Jaehyun’s voice cut off mid-sentence as he stepped into the living room and spotted Jay sitting there.

Great.

Jungwon sighed quietly and braced himself.

“Oh! I didn’t know we had company.” Jungwoo appeared behind Jaehyun, smiling politely. “Jungwon's friend?”

Jay stood up slightly from his seat and gave a courteous nod. “Sorry if I’m intruding. I’m Jay, Jungwon’s classmate.” He paused, then added with a sheepish smile. "We were just working on a project together."

Jungwoo nodded back, friendly as ever. “No problem. Would you like something to drink?”

Before Jay could answer, Jungwon subtly waved his hands behind his back at both his brother and Jungwoo. Please. Just go.

Jay, picking up on the vibe, smiled and shook his head. “No need, thank you. I actually brought snacks and drinks earlier.”

“Yeah,” Jungwon added quickly, “he brought cake and everything. So you guys can just… go. We’re good.”

Jaehyun raised a brow, crossing his arms slowly. His tone turned just a little too casual. “So, Jay, huh?” He looked between the two of them. “Funny. First time I’ve heard that name. I usually know all of Jungwon’s friends.”

Because I only have, like, two, Jungwon thought bitterly. Thanks for the reminder.

He shot Jaehyun a look that screamed please don’t do this, but his brother wasn’t done yet.

“You must be new,” Jaehyun continued with a thin smile. “Jungwon’s circle is pretty exclusive. Mostly just Sunoo and Niki. So you must’ve made quite the impression.”

Jay, ever polite, just nodded. “I guess I got lucky.”

Jungwon wanted to sink into the floor.

He cleared his throat. “Hyung, seriously. We’re working. Go bother Jungwoo or something.”

Jungwoo, bless his heart, finally caught on. “Right, okay. We’ll be upstairs if you need anything.” He tugged lightly on Jaehyun’s sleeve. “Come on.”

Jaehyun let out a dramatic sigh. “Fine, fine. But I’m doing a background check later.”

The two disappeared upstairs, finally, and peace settled back into the room like a long-lost friend.

Jungwon let out the most exhausted sigh of his life. “Sorry about that. Really. If I’d known they were coming back this early, I would’ve… I don’t know, barricaded the door.”

Jay laughed, shaking his head. “Nah, don’t worry. Your brother’s funny. A little intense, but funny.” He paused, then tilted his head. “So, those two are both your brothers?”

Jungwon snorted. “God, no. I only have one brother. The one who kept interrogating you like you were applying to marry me? Yeah, that’s Jaehyun.”

Jay raised his brows. “And the other one?”

“That’s Jungwoo,” Jungwon replied, deadpan. “Hyung's boyfriend.”

Jay blinked. “Oh. That makes so much sense now.”

“Does it?” Jungwon raised a brow. “That was his chill version of my brother, actually.” Jungwon said, deadpan. “You should see him when he’s actually trying to be intimidating.”

Jay raised an eyebrow. “That wasn’t him trying?”

Jungwon just gave him a look, and they both burst into laughter.

Jay leaned back on the couch, still smiling, watching Jungwon like he wasn’t quite ready to leave just yet. “He really cares about you, though.”

“Yeah,” Jungwon said, quieter now. “He just channels that care into aggressively micromanaging my love life.”

Jay tilted his head, teasing. “Love life, huh?”

Jungwon blinked, caught off guard. “Um. Yeah. Well, nonexistent one, I mean.”

Jay just smiled. “Hm.”

He stood and gave a little stretch, arms reaching over his head, shirt riding up just a bit too much for Jungwon to process properly. “I should probably head out before your brother comes back down with a list of interview questions,” Jay said.

“You’re assuming he doesn’t already have one saved in his Notes app,” Jungwon muttered, following him to the door.

Jay turned back to him, that soft smile still tugging at the corners of his lips. “Thanks for today. For the cake hangout slash homework thing.”

“You brought the cake,” Jungwon reminded him.

“Yeah, but you brought the good company.” Jay winked, then paused, laughing at himself. “Okay, that was super cheesy. Ignore that.”

“No, no,” Jungwon said, grinning despite the heat rising in his cheeks. “I like cheese.”

Jay blinked. “Like, the metaphorical kind or—”

“Just leave before this gets worse,” Jungwon said, laughing as he opened the door.

Jay stepped outside, but turned one last time on the porch. “See you later, I guess?”

“Yeah.” Jungwon leaned on the doorframe. “See you.”

Jay gave one last crooked smile—gentle, playful, and just a little boyish—before walking off into the sunlit afternoon.

The door clicked shut behind him, and Jungwon immediately dropped his head against it with a soft groan.

He was never going to survive this crush.

From upstairs, Jaehyun’s voice rang out loud and clear.

“DID HE JUST WINK AT YOU?!”

Jungwon screamed into his hands.

“Kid,” Jaehyun said, barging into Jungwon’s room without knocking, again.

Jungwon didn’t even look up from his bed. He just flopped back dramatically onto his pillow and groaned. “Hyung, have you heard about knocking?”

“Not when I have urgent questions,” Jaehyun replied, walking in like he owned the place. He crossed his arms and leaned against the wall, eyes narrowed in amusement. “So, that Jay guy. He’s your crush, huh?”

Jungwon made a sound halfway between a scoff and a dying whale. He grabbed the nearest pillow and launched it at his brother’s face. Jaehyun caught it easily, laughing.

“Can we not talk about this?” Jungwon mumbled, dragging his blanket over his head like it could shield him from the sheer embarrassment radiating off his brother.

Jaehyun just chuckled and plopped down on the edge of the bed, bouncing a little as the mattress dipped under his weight. “Just admit it. He’s cute. You like him.”

Jungwon peeked out from under the blanket, cheeks already flushing. “Why do you even care?”

“Because you’re my little brother,” Jaehyun said with a shrug, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. “I gotta make sure you’re not falling for someone who’s gonna mess with your heart.”

Jungwon sighed. Of course. Jaehyun had always been like this; blunt, overbearing, protective to a fault. But it wasn’t without reason.

Ever since they’d left their parents’ house—walked away from all the yelling and cold silences and the way family had stopped feeling like home—Jaehyun had stepped up. He worked nonstop, paid the bills, made sure there was always food in the fridge, covered school fees, even reminded Jungwon to eat when he was too stressed over finals.

He wasn’t just a brother anymore. He was everything: a parent, a guardian, a best friend, and sometimes an annoying roommate.

Jungwon pulled the blanket off and sat up slowly, hugging a pillow to his chest. “Look, even if I do like him, which I’m not confirming, I don’t think it’s going anywhere.”

Jaehyun tilted his head. “Why not?”

“Because,” Jungwon said quietly, “people like Jay don’t usually fall for people like me. I’m just… I don’t know. Not that guy.”

There was a pause. Jaehyun looked at him, really looked at him, and his teasing expression softened.

“Jungwon,” he said gently, “you’re worth more than you think. If he doesn’t see that, it’s his loss.”

Jungwon smiled, small but real. His chest ached a little, but in a good way—like his heart was being reminded that he wasn’t alone.

Then, not wanting to sink too far into sappiness, he smirked. “You worry too much. Maybe you should spend less time analyzing my nonexistent love life and more time taking your boyfriend on cute dates.”

Jaehyun snorted. “Changing the subject, huh?”

“It’s working, isn’t it?”

Jaehyun tossed the pillow back at him, ruffling Jungwon’s hair as he stood up. “Fine. But if that Jay guy ever breaks your heart, he’ll have to deal with me.”

Jungwon rolled his eyes, but his grin widened. “You say that like you’re scary.”

“I am scary,” Jaehyun called over his shoulder as he left the room. “Ask Jungwoo!”

Left alone, Jungwon flopped back onto the bed with a sigh, feeling a little lighter than before. Maybe things with Jay were uncertain. Maybe his heart was still holding back, just in case.

But one thing he did know?

He had the best big brother in the world.

Jungwon was watching his usual late-night mukbang videos in bed, winding down like he always did before sleep. The soft glow of his phone screen lit up the room until a notification popped up at the top.

Jay

hey
are you still up?
thanks for today. let’s finish the assignment soon.
you can pick the place
or I can just come over again, if that’s okay.

Jungwon blinked, suddenly very awake. His heart skipped, and he instinctively touched his cheek, realizing it felt a little too warm.

He sat up in bed, thumbs hovering over the keyboard for a second before typing back.

Jungwon

sure.
you can choose the place.
but maybe… not my place this time.

Jay replied almost immediately.

Jay

why not?
I like your place.
it feels warm.

Jungwon let out a quiet groan, his smile betraying him.

Jungwon

ugh.
my brother will just bother you again.

Jay

lol
I don’t mind.
he’s kinda cool, honestly.

Jungwon stared at Jay’s message, lips tugging into a smile he couldn’t stop even if he tried. His heart was doing that annoying fluttering thing again, the kind that made it hard to breathe properly. Not in a bad way. Just in a very Jay way.

He sank back into his pillows, holding the phone above his face as he typed slowly.

Jungwon

he's not cool, he's a menace.
he only acts like that when he thinks someone’s getting close to me

Jay

well…
maybe he should get used to it, then?

Jungwon blinked. Then read it again. And again. His brain refused to process it smoothly the first time.

Was that flirting? That sounded like flirting.

His fingers hesitated, then quickly typed back before he could overthink it into oblivion.

Jungwon

don’t say things like that if you don’t mean them.

Jay was typing. Then stopped. Then started again. Jungwon watched the dots bubble with way more anticipation than he should.

Jay

I dont say things I dont mean Jungwonie

That was it. Just one sentence. Simple. Soft. Real.

Jungwon pressed the back of his hand to his face, trying to hide the way his cheeks were heating up even though no one could see him. His heart was racing again, but this time, it wasn’t just because he liked Jay—it was because maybe, just maybe, Jay liked him back.

He buried his face in his pillow, then peeked back at the screen and typed:

Jungwon

...okay.
goodnight, jay.

A moment later, he replied.

Jay

goodnight, won.

And just like that, Jungwon knew he’d be smiling in his sleep tonight.

“Do you think that Jay guy likes him back?” Jaehyun asked, relaxing on the bed while Jungwoo nestled comfortably beside him.

He wrapped his arms around Jungwoo, who melted into the embrace, feeling safe and warm.

“I’m not sure,” Jungwoo replied, burying his face against Jaehyun’s chest, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat soothing him. “Our Jungwon is just so easy to love. Maybe Jay doesn’t see him that way yet, but who knows? Love can sneak up on you.”

Jaehyun frowned slightly, a protective instinct flaring up. “Ugh, I still don’t want Jungwon to have a boyfriend just yet.”

Jungwoo laughed, lifting his head to meet Jaehyun’s gaze. “Oh, come on! You should support your little brother. He’s nineteen and has never had a relationship!” He playfully poked the dimples in Jaehyun’s cheeks, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

Jaehyun brushed his fingers gently through Jungwoo’s hair, a fond smile spreading across his face. “He doesn’t need a boyfriend. He has me.”

“Okay, hyung, you’re starting to sound like a jealous dad,” Jungwoo replied, shaking his head with a smile. “Let Jungwon experience love. You never know. He might find someone who adores him and will always be there to protect him,” Jungwoo said warmly, his eyes sparkling. “Just like you do for me.”

Jaehyun gazed at Jungwoo, feeling a rush of affection. Jungwoo wasn’t his first love, he had his fair share of past relationships, both with girls and boys. At Jungwon’s age, Jaehyun had already dated, but the thought of his brother getting hurt made him uneasy.

“What are you thinking so hard about?” Jungwoo asked gently and leaned in to kiss Jaehyun’s chin. “Let’s just see how things unfold with Jungwon and Jay. If Jungwon does end up with a heartbreak, we’ll be there to catch him.”

Jaehyun felt grateful for Jungwoo. In the midst of the heavy responsibility of watching over Jungwon, his boyfriend understood and cared for Jungwon just as he did. That knowledge brought Jaehyun a sense of relief.

Jungwon was sweet, his heart so pure and kind.

And Jaehyun loved him so much.

As if sensing the atmosphere shift, Jungwoo leaned closer, their faces just inches apart. “You know,” he whispered, his voice barely above a murmur, “we could always show Jungwon what love looks like.”

Jaehyun’s heart raced as Jungwoo’s lips brushed against his in a soft, tender kiss. It started slowly, a gentle exploration that deepened as their connection blossomed. Jaehyun melted into the kiss, the warmth of Jungwoo’s affection wrapping around him like a comforting embrace.

When they finally pulled away, breathless and smiling, Jungwoo teased, “See? Not so hard to love after all, is it?”

Jaehyun chuckled, brushing his thumb across Jungwoo's cheek. “Not at all.”