Archive of Our Own

"Did you hear?" Heeseung wedges next to Jay on the single seat. Heeseung's gangly legs sprawl in front of them. Jay is forced to make himself tinier just so they can both fit. Fuck him. "The new photographer is hot."

"Ugh," Jay digs his elbow into Heeseung's ribs and the older man yelps. "We're here for work, hyung. Why the fuck are you here, anyway?"

Jay still can't figure out what Heeseung even does and he's been Sunoo's bodyguard for nearly a year now. Social media handler? Jungwon's assistant and/or Sunoo's second manager? Does Heeseung even get paid?

Jay is, like, 100% sure Sunoo brings Heeseung around purely for gossip. And eye-candy. And hook-ups.

"If Sunoo-ah wants me here, then I'm here," Heeseung sings and because his hyung is a child he retaliates, bumping their shoulders together. Jay bristles at the contact, thoroughly annoyed. "Why are you here, Jay-ah? I thought we only bring you for outside schedules."

"You thought — ?"

"Stop teasing him, hyung," Jungwon intervenes, his bored voice echoing across the room. "No fighting, please."

Heeseung gives Jay a sleazy grin but surrenders. Jay huffs and makes a mental note to strangle him when they're out of working hours.

They're currently on set for a clothing brand's newest campaign. Jay doesn't really know which brand specifically it's for — he's long lost track of what big names Sunoo and their company has a partnership with. Today, Sunoo is dressed up in what Jay considers to be cute clothes that highlight his soft charms. The set is also outdoors, which is really why Jay is here with them. If it were a simple indoor, studio shoot, the company might not have called him to come in.

He hasn't worked with Sunoo for long but the model was quick to adopt him into his circle. Jay thinks it might be an age thing, with every other bodyguard in the team either too young or old. Sunoo insists it's because Jay is fun to tease. That, Jay also agrees. The amount of times they gang-up on him is egregious, though it's not like the people here are horrible. Jay puts up with it because this is really the most fun he has in a long while.

Which is saying something, considering his family background. Jay doesn't exactly need this job, he has enough money to fall back on if he ever quits or, for whatever atrocious reason, get fired. It was also pure luck for him to get assigned to Sunoo's team. Sunoo, for all his attitude, is one of the kindest people Jay has encountered. The sentiment extends to the rest of his team as well. Jay likes his job and enjoys what he does.

Even with all the safety risks he has to endure. Stalkers, fans that get too up close in Sunoo's face, sketchy gifts they sometimes receive. Jay feels like he's faced it all. But the people around him makes it bearable and that's enough for him to stay.

So here he is now, in another set waiting for Sunoo and people from all the other teams to make the magic happen.

It's almost routine, to listen to the team's chatter about the different people working in a photoshoot. Jay didn't understand how many people were involved until this job. He always thought these things are rather simple but then different titles get thrown around in the waiting room and Jay quickly realizes it's not the case.

There's always something to gossip about. A creative team's previous campaign direction being poorly received or well done. Work politics that affected a graphic design team. The set being haunted. The other model working with Sunoo being attractive.

The last one is usually the main topic of Sunoo and Heeseung's conversation, so this talk about the photographer isn't exactly new. And considering the industry they work in, this happens more often than not. Jay would've tuned out their conversation as he usually does, if only he wasn't sitting right next to Heeseung to begin with.

That and well.. It's not a model they're talking about this time.

"And he's not new," Jungwon sighs and Jay catches him looking around from his seat wearily. "He's a big deal, okay? His portfolio is amazing and this is a great opportunity for Sunoo hyung. Please don't embarrass us in front of his team."

"Wait, wait," Sunoo finally chimes in from where he sits on the vanity table. The stylists are still doing his make-up while his hair is all curled softly, ready for today's photoshoot. "Heeseung hyung, what did you say earlier? The photographer is hot?"

"He —"

"Hyung," Jungwon interrupts again. This time he walks towards them and stops next to Jay's chair, arms crossed disapprovingly. "Please don't distract Sunoo hyung even more. The concept we're going for today is supposed to be a cute one. He can't be horny for it."

It never fails to surprise Jay how blunt Jungwon can be. When he first started working for Sunoo, Jay had always thought Jungwon is the most reasonable one, even more than the oldest of their group. But, alas, Jungwon is still a baby (Sunoo's words) because he somehow always manages to say the most out of pocket shit with the blankest look.

Jay's the only one flustered, sputtering as he tries to chastise Jungwon. Heeseung laughs while Sunoo merely huffs, not even fazed at the accusation.

"I'm a professional," Sunoo says easily with a wave of his hand. "How many times are you going to say things like that, Won-ah? Besides, Heeseung hyung is always saying someone is hot when they're a 7 at most. You have low standards, hyung."

Now Jay can laugh. But the satisfaction never truly reaches him because Heeseung's grin only widens, clearly unaffected by the jab.

"You don't get it. This one is definitely your type." Heeseung shifts, his body folding inward slightly. His knees begin to bounce and his hand reaches to cover his mouth. Heeseung is giddy. "And how do I know? Because he's my type."

Sunoo gasps and Jay's smile drops. Jay catches Sunoo's eyes just as the younger looks at him before they both whip their heads at Heeseung in unison.

"What?!"

One of their stylists, Chaewon, giggles. For a moment, Jay had forgotten about the people around them. "He is easy on the eyes. What's his name again? Park Sunghoon?"

"Oh!" Yunjin, their make-up artist, joins in. "I remember now. A friend of mine told me he's so handsome he could be a model too."

Again, Jay usually doesn't care. He often thinks these talks are beneath him because, by the end of the day, this is work. They may be in the modeling industry but Jay doesn't think it's professional for them to be whispering about how hot someone is and how much they want to go down on them.

But hearing Chaewon and Yunjin giving praise to this Park Sunghoon guy is enough to pique Jay's interest. And for Heeseung to boldly claim Sunghoon is Sunoo's and Heeseung's type..

Sneaking a glance at Jungwon, Jay tries to read the younger's expression. Like Jay, Jungwon doesn't really care about who the other two find attractive and whatnot. Surely Jungwon will be just as dismissive this time.

Jungwon is currently scrolling through his phone. Jay huffs somewhat satisfied because at least someone is normal about this.

Except it doesn't last long. Because Jungwon's mouth twitches, lips forming into a small smirk before he presses it into a thin line. Jay sits there, anticipating what Jungwon could possibly have to say about all of this. He half expects another row of reprimanding but none of it ever comes.

"Well," Jungwon finally mumbles instead, not looking away from his phone. Jay can barely hear his voice in the midst of the commotion of the waiting room. "I would fuck him."

Jay's eyebrows raise so high it would've disappeared if he wore his hair down.

"What?!" Sunoo practically jumps out of his chair and Yunjin barely manages to pull the lip-liner away on time. He grabs Jungwon's shoulders and shakes him, Sunoo's eyes bugging out as he screeches. "What did you just say?! Show me this Park Sunghoon guy now!"

The corner of Jungwon's lips curl into a smug grin. "Sit down, hyung. You'll find out later. We have work to do."

Jay shivers and he hears Heeseung cursing softly. Damn Yang Jungwon.

When someone from Park Sunghoon's team knocks on their door to call them out, all four of them rush out to the entrance. Which is embarrassing because Jay never hurries. Usually, Sunoo or Jungwon would go first and Heeseung and Jay would follow after the two leisurely because Jay is supposed to keep an eye on Sunoo while Heeseung just takes his time to do whatever wants.

The speed at which Jay stands from his chair should've mortified him and it does. But he stomps the feeling down despite his face burning and nearly trips over Sunoo's steps in front of him. The younger turns and narrows his eyes but Jay keeps his gaze straight ahead, ignoring him completely.

They stop midway to the set as a tall, very handsome, very pretty, guy approaches them. He's dressed in casual clothes, a huge contrast to Sunoo's more elaborate look, yet Jay firmly believes this guy can pass off as a model too simply by the way he holds himself. He gives them a small bow and when he looks up, a soft smile is already gracing his face.

Jungwon doesn't try to disguise his sniggers, pleased at their awestruck expression. Even Sunoo is left speechless and Jay has always known him as someone who's not easily impressed by just a mere look.

"Park Sunghoon," the guy — Sunghoon — offers his hand to Sunoo. He mercifully doesn't comment on the fact that all of their jaws are hanging open. "I'll be your photographer for today. Let's all work hard, shall we?"

Sunoo doesn't immediately respond, still gawking at Sunghoon. Jay is the one to nudge him, breaking him out of his daze.

"Ah," Sunoo hurries to shake Sunghoon's hand, ears already turning bright red. Jay kinda wants to touch him too. "Kim Sunoo. It's a pleasure to work with you, Sunghoon-ssi."

A few of the staff begin to yell out directions as Sunoo and Sunghoon move forward to the set while the three of them stand back to watch. Jay's eyes trail after Sunoo immediately, his bodyguard instinct taking over. But it was as if Park Sunghoon had cast a spell just from the brief interaction,because it left Jay's focus to slowly, but surely, shift on the photographer.

He didn't even realize it but by the time Jay snaps out of it, he shakes his head and hurries to watch over Sunoo once more. Because, well. They're here for work.

Work. This is what it is. Work.

As Sunoo settles in his place with a staff guiding him close by, Jay gives Sunghoon another glance. He has a hand on his hip, waiting for Sunoo to be ready and — wow, Sunghoon-ssi is 70% all legs. Kind of like Heeseung except the view of his back is much, much nicer.

Shit.

*

Sunghoon takes a few more pictures, satisfied at how everything is falling into place perfectly. Despite this being his first time working with Kim Sunoo, their chemistry is almost natural. The model seems to understand Sunghoon's vision with one look at the set and mood board they've created. It doesn't take long for them to finish the first set of photos, with Sunghoon satisfied with every picture that appears on their computer.

"This one is stunning," Kazuha murmurs, marking the picture. It's unsurprising how many of them ended up flagging for the final spread but it is already a lot for Sunghoon's standards. And this is still the first half of their time here.

Sunghoon will keep them anyway as part of his portfolio. Maybe he'll post some of them as a B-cut on his social media. "I like that one too," Sunghoon agrees with a nod. He liked a lot of them, actually.

Every project is exciting for Sunghoon but it's especially thrilling when he works with new clients. As the people say: you never know until you try. And Sunghoon is glad for the opportunity to work with Kim Sunoo and his team because he's enjoying it more than he expected.

Hopefully the good atmosphere lasts until tomorrow. And maybe they'll have a good enough rapport that Sunoo and his team will say yes when Sunghoon asks them to collaborate for his own personal projects. He'll be just as happy if Sunoo's company recruits him for another photoshoot in the future.

They go through a few more pictures before Sunghoon finally looks up from the screen. The make-up team is still doing touch-ups so Sunghoon lets his eyes wander around. It's spring which is a perfect time to do an outdoor shoot with the concept they had in mind. The wind is thankfully not too strong to blow their equipment away.

Being a photographer, Sunghoon has met a lot of beautiful people. It's easy to say they're objectively attractive because they are. Models, idols, performers. Each person he met has their own appeal that makes them stand out, one that Sunghoon appreciates.

Sunghoon knows Sunoo is his model for today. He's beautiful in his own right, whose softness complements his sharp features nicely. But Sunghoon really, really can't stop looking at this other guy from his team.

In between takes, Sunghoon finds himself staring. For one, this guy is wearing a full on suit. It's not too warm for him to sweat under it but it tickles him to see someone wear something so formal in this kind of setting. His tan skin glows even more under the soft, spring light, his swept up hair making him all more attractive.

'What a face', Sunghoon can't help but think. There is something so unique about him that Sunghoon is sure if he sees him in the middle of the streets, he wouldn't have been able to look away.

The guy is also very expressive. He can't seem to hide his emotions very well and Sunghoon often catches him with his eyebrows furrowed and lips twisted into a frown, usually when the tall guy from Sunoo's team talks to him. There's a moment where his jaw tightens and Sunghoon nearly gapes at how sexy the annoyed expression looks. Part of him itches to guide Jay's head so it faces a certain angle just so he can capture it with his camera. Or at the very least, have it in his head. Sunghoon knows it will look amazing.

Sunghoon isn't sure if he's just mesmerized as a photographer or he truly finds him beautiful in a this guy is clearly my type and I desperately want to fuck him kind of way. Of course there were times they encountered models who Sunghoon personally find attractive. And he's ready to admit this guy falls under the category, considering how shy Sunghoon feels towards him. It's also been such a long time he hasn't been able to take his eyes off of someone.

Noticing Kazuha talking with another person from her team, Sunghoon decides to step away and rest his camera. He checks his phone and drinks some water only because he doesn't know what else to do. The attempts to distract himself falls flat because he catches himself staring at the guy again.

The guy is now talking to Sunoo's manager, Jungwon. His lips form into a slight pout and his forehead scrunchs as he listens intently. With the suit he has on, Sunghoon can almost envision how he would look like in a photoshoot, the expressions he wears captured neatly by him. If Sunghoon stares any longer he can imagine how the final product will look. He's already planning it out in his head, creating a concept board that he knows will fit this guy.

"Hyung," Riki says right into his ear causing Sunghoon to jump. The younger ignores his curses and looks at the direction Sunghoon was staring. "The guy in the suit?"

"Riki," Sunghoon hisses, frantically making sure no one is paying attention. "Shut up!"

"Hey, I'm trying to help here," Riki shrugs innocently. Sunghoon holds his breath when a few people walk past him. Riki thankfully keeps his mouth shut until they're out of earshot. "The guy in the suit, yes or no?"

Unfortunately, the guy is the only one with the suit. Sunghoon doesn't know why he's dressed so nicely for a photoshoot when staff usually wear casual clothes or a collared shirt at most. This guy even has a tie on.

In retrospect, it is probably fortunate on Sunghoon's end that the guy is so easily identifiable. He swallows his pride and nods, if only to gain more information about him. Even if it's from Riki of all people.

The grin Riki gives immediately sets off the alarm bells in his head. "I heard he's Sunoo-ssi's bodyguard. A real sexy one, huh?"

"Riki!" Goodness. No one can hear that. "Can you not say that so loudly?"

Riki chuckles and puts an arm around Sunghoon's shoulder, pulling him down slightly. Sunghoon nearly stumbles at the weight, his side crashing against Riki's. "Hyung, I don't think it matters if people are listening or not. You aren't exactly subtle either."

Sunghoon gapes at Riki, horrified. "What?"

"You keep checking him out," Riki explains, his voice playful despite how low it got. "Not sure about the others but we certainly can tell."

The words cause Sunghoon to stand straighter and his cheeks burning. He wants to feign ignorance and tell Riki he doesn't know what he's talking about but the idea of people from his team noticing bothers him. Sunghoon strives for perfection and he's not about to let a hot guy he saw for the first time distract him like this.

"Is it obvious?" Sunghoon asks, genuine worry beginning to seep in. He glances at the computer still displaying the pictures from earlier. Was he thinking too much of the guy that it somehow shows in his work? "Are the photos bad?"

"No!" Riki quickly refutes. He looks just as panicked, the teasing lilt disappearing immediately. "No, the pictures are amazing! As usual. I meant you just keep looking at him, hyung. The pictures are great."

"Right." The sincerity in Riki's voice eases Sunghoon but it only amplifies his shyness. "So.. that part is obvious."

Squeezing Sunghoon's shoulder, Riki proceeds to give him another shake, trying to calm Sunghoon down from the tiny meltdown. It works and Sunghoon is grateful that Riki knows how much work means to him, even though he's always quick to go back to being a menace.

"Yeah." Riki spins them around and Sunghoon chuckles. They must look silly. "You know he's behind you, right? You keep looking back and you only do it just to stare at him."

"Right," Sunghoon repeats and sighs. If he was acting so blatantly this entire time, it doesn't take a genius to notice his fixation on him. "He's.. nice to look at."

On cue, Sunghoon steals another glimpse of the bodyguard as he says the words, who's currently standing by Sunoo's seat while playing with his phone. He must be very predictable, though, because when Sunghoon turns to look at Riki, he finds him already staring back. Riki raises an eyebrow to look unimpressed but the small smile on his lips says otherwise.

"Hyungie has a crush on the bodyguard," Riki states in amusement. "So that's your type, huh?"

"Riki." This time Sunghoon whines. "Please don't say it like that."

Riki cackles, giving Sunghoon's shoulder another squeeze. "Don't worry, hyung. I get it!" His laughter cuts off abruptly, only for Riki to lean closer and whisper conspiratorially. "I think Sunoo-ssi's manager, the tiny one that looks like a cat, is really cute. Might shoot my shot before tomorrow ends."

Not being able to tell how serious Riki is, Sunghoon merely gives him a slight shove. Riki loosens his hold and they separate just in time for someone from the creative team to call him again.

"Okay, big guy," Sunghoon grins. He imagines Riki standing next to Jungwon and decides they'll be cute together but he keeps his mouth shut not wanting to boost his ego. "That's enough out of you."

Throughout the next set of photos, Sunghoon begrudgingly admits to himself that, yes, he does actually look over his shoulders just to see the bodyguard. He can only hope it's not as often as Riki made it seem to be. At least he thinks so. But then, Sunghoon meets Riki's eyes, once, and then twice, and Sunghoon knows he's screwed with each grin Riki sends him being wider than the last. He inevitably makes eye-contact with Jake, his friend raising a questioning eyebrow when it finally happens.

Which is just what Sunghoon needs, really. While Riki is the worst person to point out this observation, Sunghoon doesn't need Jake to join cornering him too.

It's embarrassing but Sunghoon can't help it. He wants to see the bodyguard even just for a split-second. Though the brave front is really just that — a front. Because Sunghoon doesn't dare to fully look at him. He catches glimpses of him from the corner of his eyes, his figure blurry but enough that it satisfied Sunghoon's curiosity.

The other inevitable happens quicker than Sunghoon would've liked. After the nth time of looking past his shoulder, Sunghoon is greeted with the sight of the bodyguard already staring back at him. Immediately, he whips his head back, face burning in shame at being caught.

'That's it,' Sunghoon scolds himself. 'That's it. That's the last time.'

With some higher power blessed upon him, Sunghoon manages the rest of the shoot without stealing a glance at the bodyguard. He would pat himself on the back if not for the damage this had cost him.

Sunghoon is 100% certain the bodyguard is looking at him. He can practically feel it, heavy and unmistakable, like a physical thing. Who else could it be? He stared so blatantly with no subtlety whatsoever that the bodyguard definitely noticed and now decided to keep an eye out for Sunghoon instead. All because Sunghoon is a fucking creep who keeps stealing glances at him and can't even hold his gaze when they meet.

It's unfortunate how uncomfortable it made him feel, since he had so much fun with the photoshoot when they first started. Sunghoon is finally put out of his misery when a staff finally announces lunch, the crew cheering for their hard work now the first half of the day has passed.

Though now that it's free time, it's also free game for Sunghoon's friends to bother him. As he walks towards his designated area to rest his legs, Sunghoon hears Jake's giggles before he even comes into his field of view.

"Hoon," Jake's voice shakes with excitement. "Can you be anymore obvious?"

"Jake," Sunghoon sighs as he sits down. He packs his camera carefully and takes out his personal film camera. "Please, no."

"I mean," Jake lets out a strangled laugh and Sunghoon knows he's trying really hard to be nice. "I know he's hot but Hoon! Sheesh. You're even all flushed like you're in heat."

Sunghoon looks up from his camera and glares at him. For a moment, he's at loss for words.

"I —"

"If you're an omega," Jake sniffles, waving a hand by his nose for emphasis. "This whole place would've reeked."

"Jake!" Sunghoon shrieks, face burning in shame. He nearly drops his camera, fingers weak from how casually Jake says the entire sentence. "What the fuck is wrong with you?"

"I'm just saying!" Jake holds his hands up in surrender. "Like, I dunno. We're at work and you should control yourself?"

"You — !" Sunghoon stutters, completely flabbergasted. Jake should listen to his own advice because who says that at work? "Stop saying shit like that so loudly!"

"Hoon," Jake says solemnly as he finally closes the distance. Sunghoon flinches when he feels Jake's hand on the back of his chair. "It's okay. I get it. You're just a guy."

Okay, so clearly Sunghoon has yet to be put out of his misery. The universe is just punishing him even more. Jake's laughter is loud over Sunghoon's weak sputtering, hands flying around but nothing coherent escapes him. He's infinitely grateful that no one is around them and his team is still milling around because goodness.

Usually if Sunghoon plays along, Jake wouldn't get too witty with his quips so he decides to surrender with a sigh.

"Okay, fine," Sunghoon says weakly and takes out his lunch box. He's so hungry that all this teasing is giving him a headache. "Fine. I do think he's hot."

"The first step to a crush is acceptance," Jake nods seriously with a hand on his chest. "Good for you, Hoon. Next step is to make your move."

"I'm not gonna do anything," Sunghoon mumbles as he bites into his katsu. "He's a bodyguard. We're working. That's so inappropriate."

Jake shrugs. "Not really." He pulls the chair next to Sunghoon and makes himself comfortable, leaning so close it causes Sunghoon to squirm. "There's absolutely nothing wrong with just talking to him. Banter and all that."

"I don't know," Sunghoon shakes his head and he feels shy all over again. "You saw how much I stared at him. He probably thinks I'm weird too."

The cackle Jake lets out comes unexpectedly. "Hoon, are you crazy? If someone like you keeps staring at me, I'll be flattered," Jake insists, wiggling his eyebrows. "I don't know why you're acting so lame. And just so you know, he was staring at you too."

Sunghoon narrows his eyes. "Well, yeah. Because he noticed how much I was staring at him."

"No, Hoon," Jake murmurs under his breath. "He was already staring at you before that. Well, I mean, there's always at least one person staring at you because, you know you. But Jay-ssi has been staring at you the moment you shook hands with Sunoo-ssi when we started the shoot."

The headache comes back full force at Jake's words. Sunghoon puts his arm on the table to rest his chin on his palm, trying to process what Jake had said.

"I think your brain is playing tricks on you," Sunghoon reasons. There's no way the bodyguard, Jay, was staring at Sunghoon for so long. Since the handshake? "It's making you see things you want to see."

"Well, no!" Jake huffs, exasperated. "If you don't wanna believe me, fine. But if you're just gonna hide behind your camera every time you have a crush — just like you always have — don't come to me moaning about it."

Before Sunghoon can respond, Jake gets up, sticking his tongue out before scurrying away. Sunghoon can only huff and decides to finish his lunch. He still has pictures he wants to take before the lunch break ends.

Once Sunghoon had gotten comfortable with his work as a photographer, he started his own little thing of taking pictures during breaks. It's something so menial that Sunghoon doesn't really think much of it, except to make sure he has permission of every team on the set he was currently working with. Though he never has any intention on posting them, except maybe an archive account he owns that's private, it eases his mind to know the staff knows what he's doing, especially when some companies are more sensitive than others when it comes to privacy.

It's a fun way to make memories. Sunghoon will bring out his digital camera and snap a few pictures. Without any clear goal or direction, everything comes out more natural and personal. It's exactly how he wants it to be, with everyone relaxed and carefree during their breaks.

After finishing his lunch, and his headache finally clearing up, Sunghoon decides it's time to do just that.

Now that he's more known in the industry, it's almost expected to find him walking around and staff posing for his camera in a Park Sunghoon photoshoot. It never fails to tickle him, how comfortable the staff gets the moment they realize Sunghoon's digital camera is pointed at them.

It's nice.

Sunoo and his team are eating outside instead of being in their reserved waiting room and Sunghoon is glad because he wasn't about to knock on doors just to get some pictures. Walking closer, he approaches Jungwon who's currently sitting with another staff member. The manager must've seen him milling around because he waves Sunghoon over and even poses with a V sign when Sunghoon gets close. He gives a tiny laugh and snaps a picture, Jungwon's playful expression now saved in his camera.

Sunghoon sits with the two and distractedly makes small talk with Jungwon, mind still focused on snapping pictures of their team. Jungwon is understanding of his intentions which he's grateful for, only piping up when the camera is no longer on his face. While there are multiple tables for Sunoo's team, they're placed close enough that Sunghoon doesn't have to crane his neck to find a good angle for the model. While he tries to make sure he gets enough of Sunoo, it's inevitable that his camera finds his way to Jay who happens to sit right next to him.

Jay isn't even doing anything special yet Sunghoon can't help but be mesmerized. Every time he looks to the side, Sunghoon makes sure to capture how sharp his jaw is. This close he notices a birthmark on his neck, adding more charm to his appearance.

Too focused on Jay, Sunghoon fails to notice one of Sunoo's staff leaving said table and walking up to him. His field of view that was previously taken up by the bodyguard, is suddenly blocked by another, familiar face.

Sunghoon looks up from his camera and recoils slightly at their proximity. The guy doesn't seem to be bothered at all by his fright and even shifts forward at Sunghoon's movement, keeping their distance the same. He's tall enough that he has to bend down for their noses to almost brush.

"Sunghoon-ssi," the guy greets him with a gentle smile. He pulls back to offer his hand. "Lee Heeseung. What a pleasure to meet you."

"Oh," Sunghoon blinks. It takes him a second too long to accept Heeseung's handshake. "I — ah. I'm Sunghoon but you already know that."

"Yes," Heeseung laughs pleasantly. Sunghoon had been so preoccupied by the bodyguard he completely forgot about this guy from Sunoo's circle and how charming he is. Without breaking eye-contact, Heeseung turns the empty seat next to Sunghoon to face him and sits down. "Finally decided to grace us with your presence, I see?"

"Ah," Sunghoon smiles awkwardly, already overwhelmed from one question. It's one thing to be surrounded by beautiful people but it's a whole other thing when one indulges him so zealously. "I was just.. walking around."

"Taking pictures," Heeseung nods at his camera. He has his arm on the table, chin resting against the palm of his hand. The way his doe-eyes stare at Sunghoon so intensely causes him to squirm. "Do you not rest? You must love what you do."

The statement catches Sunghoon by surprise and it manages to disarm him. "I do, actually," Sunghoon giggles softly, fingers brushing his hair. "It's just something I do during breaks. I just want to make, you know, capture the memories and all that."

"'And all that'," Heeseung repeats, quirking his eyebrow. He leans impossibly close and Sunghoon can smell his perfume. "You know, I —"

"Sunghoon-ssi!"

They both startle at the sudden voice, and Sunghoon finds Kim Sunoo sitting on his own chair, wedged between him and Heeseung. After seeing Sunoo on set the whole day, it surprises Sunghoon just how painfully obvious the fake, courteous smile he's currently wearing. If he had known any better, he would've sworn the expression to be more of a threat.

"Sunoo-ssi," Sunghoon nods but he fails to hide the trembling in his voice. The surprise nearly gave him a heart attack. "I.. you were amazing back there."

Sunoo beams and the edges of his smile soften, turning into something more genuine. "Thank you! I've been a fan of your work so this is an honor on my end."

"Oh?" Sunghoon dips his head in embarrassment. He's still not used to people praising his work. "Thank you. I'm glad to hear that."

The workaholic part of him begins to gnaw at him. If Sunoo is a fan and with the chemistry they have as a photographer-model, they can clearly work something out for future projects..

"You sound so surprised," Heeseung says, breaking his thoughts. "As if you're not a big name out there."

Sunoo nods at Heeseung's words and he does it with so much force that Sunghoon can't help but laugh, completely endeared. Even as a rising model, Sunoo is adorable like a baby.

"No," Sunghoon tries to wave them off but his soft voice is nothing compared to their noises of disagreements. "I'm not, really. But thank you."

"And you know, Sunghoon-ssi," Sunoo starts, leaning closer to Sunghoon. His voice drops slightly, as if whispering a secret. "I may be the model for today but you look like you can be my competition, no?"

It's not Sunghoon's first time to be complimented for his looks but hearing it from Sunoo and in front of Heeseung, somehow makes him lose his composure. He laughs and he knows his ears are burning a deeper shade of red.

On the other table, the bodyguard is still eating his food. Alone and seemingly uninterested at the commotion near him.

"Sunoo's right," Heeseung agrees with a slight gleam in his eyes. The corner of his lips curling into a smirk. "You're awfully pretty yourself."

"I.. Thank you." Sunghoon really doesn't know what to say. "You.. you two are also.. I mean, it goes without saying for you, Sunoo-ssi, but Heeseung-ssi, you're very attractive too."

Sunghoon wishes the bodyguard is here just so he can compliment him too. He's playing with his phone now, plate packed neatly ready to be thrown out. The bodyguard's calm demeanor a big contrast to Sunghoon's own predicament.

"What about me?"

To be very honest, Sunghoon completely forgot about Jungwon being there. The question not only startled him but also Sunoo and Heeseung, all three of them flinching at the new voice interrupting their conversation.

Sunghoon blinks. "Excuse me?"

"Am I pretty too?" Jungwon's previous high pitched voice has dropped, the question sounding more serious than anything Sunghoon had heard him say today. The manager mirrors Heeseung's position except he leans much closer into the table, taking up as much distance as possible. He cocks his chin up slightly, looking at Sunghoon with such heady eyes that he can't help but squirm.

"I —" Sunghoon blinks rapidly because now he's stuck not just between two but three people, vying for his attention. He doesn't even try to be discreet when he looks around, trying to catch anyone so they can come and help him.

There was no one to save Sunghoon. What he does find, though, is the bodyguard, phone noticeably absent from his hand.

He's looking at them.

Sunghoon whips his head back to face Jungwon who's still looking at him expectantly.

"You —" Sunghoon clears his throat. He needs to get out of here and drink water. "Of course you are, Jungwon-ssi. You reminded me of a cat when I first saw you."

Except now Jungwon looks like a tiger about to pounce at him.

He looks satisfied by the answer. Jungwon's intimidating expression melts into something gentler, eyes widening as he flutters his lashes.

However, when Jungwon opens his mouth, his voice is still the same deep, sultry tone he used on Sunghoon earlier. "Are you a cat person, Sunghoon-ssi?" He pouts and Sunghoon has to repress the shiver running down his spine. "Because I can —"

"Sunghoon-ssi has a dog," Heeseung interjects with a snort. He rolls his eyes at Jungwon and gives Sunghoon a look. "He posts her on Instagram."

Sunoo scoffs. "Oh, look at this stalker."

Heeseung merely grins at Sunoo before shifting his focus back at Sunghoon. "All is fair in love and war, Sunoo-ah."

Jungwon laughs but the sound only manages to grate Sunghoon's ears. Sunoo rolls his eyes as he leans back against his chair, raising his head slightly at Heeseung like a challenge. "Maybe I should call Jay hyung here since we're already fighting."

What? "I'm sorry?" Sunghoon squeaks. His palms are starting to sweat.

"Nothing," Jungwon interjects and finally, finally, his voice goes back to normal. "Nothing. Sorry, Sunghoon-ssi, Sunoo hyung and Heeseungie hyung here have no tact. You have to accept my apology on their behalf."

The two aforementioned people don't even spare Sunghoon a glance, still too busy glaring at each other. At least Jungwon has the decency to look sheepish at the whole ordeal. Sunghoon nods at him stiffly as he stands up, silently waving a goodbye before bolting away from the table without looking back.

Just.. what on earth was that? Sunghoon was not prepared to be dragged into.. whatever that was. Finally feeling he was far enough to breathe, Sunghoon stops to skim through his camera only to realize he didn't take enough pictures of Heeseung. Which he now feels bad about, after the interaction they have.

After calming down his beating heart, Sunghoon picks up his camera again to take a few more pictures before the break ends. He observes his surroundings, checks in on the other staff to distract himself. Though when he looks back at Sunoo's team, there's a new addition on the table he was just at.

Jay.

Sunghoon slowly lowers the camera from his face to watch them bicker with his own eyes. A tight knot twists in his stomach, an ugly, sickening feeling forming. Between now and the time Sunghoon left, Jay had taken Sunghoon's seat and was now locked in what looks like a heated debate with Sunoo.

So he only came when Sunghoon left. And, well, of course.. of course not everyone will want to talk to Sunghoon. That's fine. Even though he could tell Sunoo and Heeseung were eager to chat with him. And even Jungwon showed great interest when they spoke. Though 'eager' seems like an understatement — they were definitely fighting for his attention. And, well, even if Jay is part of their circle, he may not share the same sentiment when it comes to Sunghoon. It's fine.

But.. but it was Jay that Sunghoon wanted to talk to.

It was all the staring he did. Jay must've been so turned off by the blatant staring it scared him out. How humiliating. There goes Sunghoon's chances of wooing this guy.

Despite his sadness, Sunghoon forces himself to snap a few more pictures. At the very least, if he ruined his chances with Jay, the day should still end with the photos in his camera looking nice. So he takes more of Heeseung, then of Sunoo and Jungwon because he'll feel really bad if they don't get enough once he goes over them later tonight, the high of having a crush hopefully already dying down.

Sunghoon exhales softly and lifts his camera one last time, aiming at Jay. He manages to capture him laughing at something Jungwon had said and, oh, Jay is just so pretty. The action is contagious and Sunghoon feels a smile blooming across his face despite himself, clicking the shutter a couple more times for the sake of it.

This guy is truly something else. Sunghoon's palms are sweaty and he barely stops himself from zooming in. This infatuation is already so unlike him, he doesn't need to fuel it even more.

At the very last second, just as Sunghoon is about to lower his camera, Jay turns his head towards him and meets the lens with a direct, unflinching gaze.

Oh.

Sunghoon freezes a few seconds too long before moving the camera away from his face. Jay is still staring at him when he turns and stumbles further from his spot to the safety of his team.

*

"Fuck you," Sunoo hisses and grabs Jay's arm. He winces at the nails digging into his skin. "I can't believe this. Sunghoon-ssi actually likes you. What the fuck?"

"He doesn't," Jay murmurs but even he can tell how disingenuous he sounds. He tries to keep a straight face, fighting off a smile as he snatches his arm away from Sunoo's grip. He can finally be glad that he wore a suit today. "Stop glaring at me, you're being too obvious."

"He's gone," Heeseung sighs. Jay can hear the twinge of annoyance in his voice. "Is there any way that you can skip work tomorrow? Like can we replace you just for tomorrow?"

"Hey!" Jay smacks Heeseung's back, disgruntled. Though it's hard to be completely irritated when all he can do is feel giddy. "He doesn't like me. You guys are being crazy."

Jungwon rolls his eyes, fed up. "You're so annoying, hyung. And just for the record, I've never said that about you."

"And you didn't even do shit. But Sunghoon-ssi still likes you. What the fuck?" Sunoo says exasperatedly. His hand reaches to pull his hair but stops midway, remembering the photoshoot starting in less than five minutes. "He tried so hard to get your attention, hyung, but you didn't even do anything. You actually came over the moment he left! You're a loser."

Before Jay can retaliate, Sunoo gets up and leaves, walking towards the stylists. Jay can't decide if Sunoo is genuinely upset or if he's just playing with him like usual.

Whatever. With Sunoo gone, Jay doesn't feel too bad when his lips stretch into a wide grin. Jungwon clicks his tongue at his expression.

"Heh," Jay giggles but he tries to cover it with his arm. He coughs when the laughter begins to bubble up. Sunghoon-ssi really was staring at him. He did! "So the loser does get the guy."

"Ugh. And I was doing so well too. Sunghoon-ssi was shy!" Heeseung ignores Jay and instead groans, leaning back against his chair. He stretches his long legs, purposely bumping Jay's knee. "Whatever. At least I get to see him all flustered up close. Jay-ah had to sit all the way over there as I woo him. How did that make you feel?"

It made him feel like shit. He doesn't need to be in earshot to know all the flirty comments they were making at Sunghoon, seeing how increasingly red he became. The way his eyes become wide or his little nose scrunch when he laughs.. Ugh. Sunghoon-ssi is like a bunny and Jay wishes he can hide him away from everyone else.

He didn't join them because, well, not only Jay would rather sit and talk with Sunghoon alone, he already felt bad enough as it is, seeing the three circling around Sunghoon like vultures. If he really does like Jay, his presence would've most likely stressed Sunghoon out even more. Which is really, really unfortunate.

If only Jay could just come in as his knight in shining armor. It's not like they would let him be one, with how sharp Sunoo and Jungwon's words are, Jay would've lost almost immediately upon joining their conversation. These three would've torn him apart and Jay would be left stumped in front of Sunghoon. The thought causes his eye to twitch, now annoyed at a whole different thing.

Heeseung must've caught it because his scowl shifts into a grin. "Actually, Jay-ah, maybe you should keep doing nothing," Heeseung croons and Jay nearly kicks him. "Maybe I can charm him by the end of tomorrow if you just sit around and watch."

This time, Jay does kick Heeseung's chair. The older yelps, hand scrambling to steady himself.

"Jay, what the fuck!"

Jay just manages to catch himself from saying 'Sunghoon-ssi is mine'. The thought crossing his mind is already shameful enough as it is and he's grateful he didn't actually voice the words out. Because holy shit, where is this confidence coming from?

"Well, good luck to you both," Jungwon says, voice oddly sweet as he gathers his things. "Because, well. Maybe Sunghoon-ssi will have a date with me by the end of tomorrow. Who knows. I can beat all of you easy peasy, anyway."

"What?!"

"Yang Jungwon — !"

Jungwon ignores both of them, walking away as if he didn't just declare war. Jay and Heeseung glare daggers at their youngest before wearily side-eyeing each other.

Heeseung squints at him. "You know he's right, right?"

Jay pinches the bridge of his nose, in utter disbelief that Jungwon just managed to threaten all three of them. "Right. Right."

The photoshoot continuing means more time for Jay to shamelessly stare at Sunghoon. They had moved to another location and this time Jay decided to stand on the sides instead of behind the photographer, allowing himself to get a good look of his side-profile. Sunghoon is absolutely gorgeous and even he can tell despite his face covered by the camera for the majority of the shoot.

Sunghoon stands in a collared shirt and dress pants. It's supposed to be something casual, or at least business casual, but there's something so intimate about it that Jay can't shake off. No one should look this good in such simple clothes yet here is Park Sunghoon, looking like a model himself. He should be the one getting pictures taken off, not being the one to take them.

It's also, possibly, the way the sun hits Sunghoon just right. Not only it makes him glow but the shirt he wears is thin enough that when sunlight washes over the fabric, Jay can map out the gentle curves of his torso, subtle yet undeniable. And being in the center of the project, Jay is fully aware everyone can see. Maybe some people don't care, too busy working to really process the view laid upon them. But with this many staff, Jay is sure there has to be one other person eyeing Sunghoon like a treat.

Heeseung. Sunoo. Jungwon. Jay grits his teeth, annoyance bubbling over him. He feels a rush of possessiveness that makes him want to drape his own suit over Sunghoon's shoulders, hiding him from anyone who might look too long.

It's ridiculous. Jay hasn't even said a word to the photographer. He's not even sure Sunghoon knows his name.

Jay doesn't look at Sunoo anymore. He's used to observing his surroundings, ensuring there are no threats or suspicious activities that can harm his team. But this time, Jay finds himself gazing back at Sunghoon again and again. Sunghoon, who's in his element, movement effortless and confident, showing years of experience.

Sunghoon doesn't look for him now, Jay realizes mournfully. He would know if Sunghoon were stealing glances at him because Jay has been staring at him just the same. The fact that he's so focused this time is a tiny bit upsetting. Sunghoon hasn't looked over his shoulder either, so it's not like the photographer thought Jay was behind him.

Does he know Jay is by the sides? Why won't Sunghoon search for him?

He watches the way Sunghoon tilts his head when framing a shot, his thick eyebrows furrowed and lips pursing slightly as he concentrates. Jay can't really see it from his position with the bottom half of Sunghoon's face covered by his arm. But when he lowers down the camera, Jay gets to watch how the jut of his lips turns into a small, satisfied smile. It's a bit chilly even though it's spring and the weather results in a pretty flush spreading across Sunghoon's face. The blush against his pale skin makes him look like a doll and Jay feels heat coiling in his stomach every time Sunghoon looks up.

Fuck. Jay is really, really screwed.

*

When the staff announces the end of the day, Jay doesn't follow Sunoo back to their waiting room like Jungwon and Heeseung do. He quietly slinks off, gaze locked on his target, who's currently fiddling with his camera while talking to someone from the creative team. Jay waits patiently until Sunghoon is finally alone and, looking like no one will be bothering him for a while, finally makes his move.

Jay walks and stops behind Sunghoon, dipping his head closer, his head hangs by his shoulder. With this distance he can smell the sweet, citrus scent emanating from Sunghoon. "Hey."

Sunghoon jumps at his greeting, nearly stumbling when he turns around trying to see Jay. He stares at Jay in bewilderment, hands clutching his camera closely to his chest. Jay can almost see the gears turning in his head and once it clicks to Sunghoon, the photographer averts his gaze immediately. "Oh, hello," he says, and his voice is barely above a whisper. Jay resists the urge to crane his neck more just to hear him.

"Hi," Jay repeats and his breathing shakes. "Hi, uh. Great job today."

Sunghoon lifts his head but his eyes aren't looking at Jay. He mumbles a quiet thank you, a soft smile playing on his face. His lips are slightly chapped but Jay can see the remnants of a lip product, the faint smudge contrasting Sunghoon's pale skin. Jay resists the urge to wet his lips and forces himself to look away, to Sunghoon's avoiding eyes.

"But you know." The words stumble out of him clumsily and Jay cringes because he doesn't actually know what he's talking about either. "I'm sure you hear that all the time. I mean, you're a — you know. You're popular. You do this all the time. I mean —"

Sunghoon giggles and Jay huffs, abandoning whatever words he wanted to say. Which isn't a lot. He's usually really good at small talk, always has something to comment on, but the person he's facing has rendered him speechless.

"I know, I think," Sunghoon replies, a light lull in his voice. He thinks. Damn Jay and his blabbering. Sunghoon's voice is breathy and Jay doesn't know if the other just sounds like that or if he's teasing him. "It's all part of the job. Everything worked out and Sunoo-ssi was amazing as well. It's a team effort."

"And you do it, like, really effortlessly," Jay latches on to the word. Effortlessly. That's one way to describe everything Park Sunghoon does. Realizing his words aren't making sense, Jay shakes his head frantically. "I'm sorry, I —"

"It's fine," Sunghoon shakes his head and his hair bounces with him. It looks so soft and Jay wants to touch so badly. "It's a long day. You must be tired too, making sure Sunoo-ssi is safe."

Well, he didn't. Not exactly. It would've been different any other time but today, Jay was so captivated by Sunghoon's beauty he couldn't focus on anything else. Much less keeping an eye out for Sunoo, of all things.

"Well, nothing much goes on in a set like this. At least for me," Jay shrugs easily because that much is the truth. He's not really interested in talking about Sunoo even if it's inevitable considering he's Jay's job. "I get to sit down a lot. You on the other hand.."

"I'm alright." When Sunghoon starts walking towards a table full of equipment, Jay silently falls into step behind him. "It's Sunoo-ssi that —"

"Sunoo, Sunoo," Jay blurts, now a tiny bit irritated. "Enough about that guy. What about you?"

They both freeze the moment Jay stops speaking. Sunghoon gives him a look of disbelief, mouth slightly agape as his eyes flit busily to assess him.

"I.."

Jay blinks rapidly and he feels kinda bad. Damn, sorry Sunoo. "I'm sorry, I mean — I'm just way more interested in — in you. So, um. And, well, you clearly have a vision and you achieve it so effortlessly and, uh —"

Sunghoon stares as Jay sputters some more and it's only then he realizes this is the longest they've hold each other's gaze. Which isn't saying a lot considering Sunghoon can't even look him in the eye for more than five seconds. Sunghoon lifts up his arm, stifling his giggles while Jay is still stuttering and, fuck, Sunghoon is so fucking pretty he suddenly forgot how to construct sentences.

"And it's kinda unfair. " Jay can't stop the words coming out, his brain to mouth filter has long stopped working. "That you're the one behind the camera when, you know, you're like. You're beautiful and you deserve to be in front of a camera too."

My camera, Jay thinks instantly. If I can just capture everything without looking like a creep —

Sunghoon is so fucking cute when he's shy. The hand is still covering half of his face and Jay desperately wants to reach out to intertwine their fingers, to move it away so he can stare. Because Sunghoon's face deserves an audience and while he doesn't want to be the only one there, he'll sure be the first one in line to admire him.

Fuck, fuck, he wants to feel Sunghoon. Jay leans forward again, this time his whole body bending over slightly. Sunghoon backs away as a result but at least it also causes him to lower down his arm. None of them move from the awkward position, Sunghoon surprisingly staying put despite his wide eyes staring back at Jay in bewilderment.

Jay can't help but cringe internally. Yes, he wants to be bold and make an impression but not like this. The apology is at the tip of his tongue, afraid he made Sunghoon even more uncomfortable than he already is. But this close, Jay gets a good look of Sunghoon's moles and how long his eyelashes are. They're oddly perfect, something that's not surprising at all considering who he's looking at, and the way some of them cling together makes Jay feel even worse.

Jay wonders what Sunghoon will look like with tears in his eyes.

"I'm really —" Sunghoon starts, breaking Jay out of his reverie. The photographer pauses, biting his lip bashfully. It should be a crime for him to do that because now Jay's thoughts are jumping from wanting to see Sunghoon tearing up to something else, one that is clearly being conjured by his dick. "I'm really not. Really, but I appreciate it. Thank you."

Jay's face burns and he has to bite his tongue to keep his cool. He desperately wants to make it known to Sunghoon that he is truly, truly gorgeous and he needs to accept it. That Jay will worship him if he must.

But those words are too strong, far too intimate for someone who Jay has only one conversation with. Especially with this being their first one.

"You're being way too humble," Jay shrugs and he hopes he looks composed. "But, uh, you are really pretty, by the way. And, uh —" From the corner of his eyes, Jay can see people from Sunghoon's team watching them, seemingly waiting for their conversation to end. Jay concedes to their unspoken whims to be done with, but also because he's embarrassed himself enough. "I think there are people waiting for you so I'll let you go but, I, uh… I'm glad there's still tomorrow for us to talk some more."

Sunghoon raises an eyebrow, flustered expression shifting into something akin to amusement. He glances at his team briefly before facing Jay once more.

"I'm also glad you came up to talk to me, Jay-ssi, even if it's at the end of our shift." Gone was the previous, underlying shakiness that accompanied Sunghoon's words. The way he spoke now is, while still soft and gentle, holds a firmness that causes Jay to blink up to him. "I guess.." Then Sunghoon leans in and, fuck, fuck, fuck, they're so close Jay can feel his warmth. He tilts his head slightly and Jay gulps at how dignified Sunghoon looks. "I guess we'll see each other tomorrow?"

Jay coughs, his throat dry. "Yes," Jay croaks, beads of sweat rolling down his neck. "Yeah, I'll, uh, make sure to be here. Um. See you?"

Just when he thought he was about to burst, Sunghoon mercifully pulls his head back with a laugh. The image breaks and he becomes the soft, shy photographer once more. "See you, Jay-ssi."

Jay gives him a curt nod and turns around stiffly, tail tucked between his legs as he hurries back to his team's waiting room. Sunghoon snorts at the scene, wondering briefly what Sunoo, Heeseung or Jungwon would have to say if they were to see them. He certainly didn't notice them outside, which is a relief itself. They would definitely approach them if they did and ruin his time with Jay.

Ah, fuck.

He didn't even introduce himself. Jay didn't even say his name.

*

The second day of the photoshoot couldn't come quick enough. Today, Jay loses the suit but wears a fitted collared shirt instead. The way it fits his vibe as a bodyguard is a small bonus but most importantly, he looks good in it. At least it's normal for him to care about his appearance and roll up his sleeves when he wears clothes like these, or else he's sure someone (Heeseung) would've caught on and called him out.

What he doesn't usually bring, though, is sunglasses. The one and only time he wore it was when it wasn't sunny, Sunoo and Jungwon immediately grilled him for it. While, yes, he agreed later on that it was too over-the-top especially since they had an indoor schedule that day but damn. Rude.

Sunghoon has really messed up his head because Jay brings them and wears it, even if the morning sun today is still soft and not too overbearing. He maybe would've gotten away if it was noon but Jay had worn it the moment he stepped to work and Heeseung and Jungwon have been eyeing him since.

It's embarrassing. It's embarrassing because this is the only way he can think of to stare at Sunghoon comfortably, without feeling like he needs to rip his gaze away from the photographer every ten seconds. It's the only way to conceal himself so Sunghoon doesn't see, wouldn't meet his eyes when he looks back at him.

Sunghoon doesn't need to know Jay is planning on getting the most out of staring at him today because it's embarrassing. Everything about this project has been humiliating but this takes the cake because Jay knows Sunghoon stares at him too. Sunghoon is all Jay can see so of course he knows. But Jay doesn't want him to know that he stares at him too. So Jay wears it, even if it's humiliating, even if he looks pretentious and annoying.

No one has said anything but the rest of their team has been looking at him like he's grown two heads. Heeseung has pointedly ignored him and is happily playing with his Nintendo Switch next to him while Sunoo busies himself getting fitted. Though not without side-eyeing him from time to time, clearly unimpressed.

As Jay sits in one of the waiting chairs, he meets Jungwon's eyes for what feels like the millionth time, the manager currently sitting across him. Jungwon squirms uncomfortably and Jay huffs. "Out with it."

He gives Jay another once over. Jay knows he's trying to hold his laughter but his lips turn upwards despite his best efforts and now Jungwon just looks crazy. "Why are you wearing sunglasses? It's not even that sunny right now."

Heeseung laughs at the question, his eyes not leaving the Switch. "He wants to stare at Sunghoon-ssi, Won-ah. That's like the oldest trick in the book."

Jay is so flustered he takes off the sunglasses, now feeling way too conscious. The judgemental stare Jungwon sends him shouldn't surprise him anymore but it does manage to make him reconsider his life choices.

"I really don't know what to say," Jungwon grumbles and folds his arms close to his chest.

"I gotta do what I gotta do," Jay sniffles, playing around with his sunglasses. The lenses are dark enough it should hide his wandering eyes. "Is it so wrong that I want to stare at Sunghoon-ssi shamelessly?"

Jungwon sighs as if dealing with Jay is the most tedious task on earth. "Kinda."

"Mister 'we're at work, guys' here suddenly breaking his own rules," Heeseung points his thumb at Jay. "All for Sunghoon-ssi."

'Because he's beautiful,' Jay wants to say but he bites his tongue before it slips. It feels extremely superficial to want Sunghoon just because of his looks despite there being nothing truly wrong with that. Jay's a perfectly healthy man. It's not exactly anyone's fault if he's thirsting over someone he finds attractive.

Jay feels like he's losing his mind because this.. crush on Sunghoon is a bit intense, even for him. At first it was definitely a physical attraction but from their short interaction yesterday, Jay wants to get to know Sunghoon more so badly. He wants to hear more of him speak. He wants to watch Sunghoon do all the things he enjoys and maybe learn more about him outside of his job. More about Sunghoon personally.

Anything.

Jay stares at his sunglasses. Yes, he wants to stare at Sunghoon shamelessly but he also feels bad. Maybe if Sunghoon can't see where Jay's eyes are locked into, he'll be less intimidated to look directly at him. It's so obvious that Sunghoon doesn't look anywhere near Jay's eyes. As much as he's flattered when Sunghoon's eyes dart towards his lips to evade eye-contact, Jay wants to look into his eyes. He wants to stare at Sunghoon and have him stare back.

Taking a deep breath, Jay puts the sunglasses back on. He has to blink a few times because, damn it, it really isn't that sunny and now his vision is just a bit too dim for his liking.

Jungwon cocks an eyebrow at him, thoroughly amused by the situation Jay has put himself in. "I get that you don't want Sunghoon-ssi to know you're staring but isn't this a bit much?"

"Won," Sunoo speaks up before Jay can reply, all with a solemn shake of his head. "Can we fire him just for this?"

"No," Jungwon answers, ignoring Jay's sputtering, his voice just as grim. "Unfortunately not."

*

Lunch finds Sunghoon with his personal camera again, pointing at his newest fixation again. He's forever grateful that the photoshoot has been running so smoothly, putting him in such a good mood that taking pictures of Jay is like a treat itself. Said person is wearing sunglasses today despite the sun not too striking but it only adds more to Jay's sexy allure that it nearly causes Sunghoon to salivate.

The good view is enough for Sunghoon to forgive him over the fact he doesn't have a single idea as to where Jay's eyes are at. As mysterious as he now looks, Sunghoon feels even more self-conscious, wondering if the bodyguard is even watching him or if he brought sunglasses so he can cover his face and sneak naps instead.

Maybe Jay is so tired to the point he feels the need to hide. Though the idea that Jay is exhausted or bored on set makes Sunghoon feel queasy, he tries to chase away the feeling, remembering their conversation yesterday.

"I'm glad," Jay had said. He's glad to meet Sunghoon and wants to talk to him. They haven't gotten a chance to yet and he wonders briefly that he should return the favor and approach Jay first today, since Jay did so yesterday.

Jay isn't in a suit today but instead wears a simple black collared shirt. It fits him just right, the top buttons of his shirt opened and his sleeves rolled up to show off his arms. Sunghoon gets to see more of his honeyed skin exposed and, gosh, Jay is so hot. So fucking hot with his stupid shirt and sunglasses and his pushed-up hair, all sexy without even trying.

Sunghoon takes a sneaky picture, zooming in on Jay's hands. The result is nice that Sunghoon has half the mind to edit it as a spread. Jay should really look into doing modelling. He doesn't even need to show his face, which is a waste if he decides to stay unknown, but even his hands will do.

"Whatcha looking at?"

Jake's breath tickles his ear. Sunghoon jumps away, nearly dropping his camera but Jake holds his hips steady and rests his chin on his shoulder, effectively locking him in place.

"Hoon," Jake gives his waist a squeeze and Sunghoon squirms at the touch. "You're gone, huh?"

Sunghoon whines, ashamed. "He looks really good today."

Jake chuckles and they're close enough Sunghoon can feel the rumble in his chest. As much as he loves Jake, he wishes the other would stop acting so touchy with him on set. It doesn't matter if the majority knows they're close friends. They're at work.

And Jay is there across the room, hands folded while he faces their direction. Sunghoon dips his head in a flimsy effort to hide but it only causes Jake's head to shift, chin digging closer to the junction of his neck and shoulder.

"Jake," Sunghoon hisses and turns them around, just to avoid Jay's stare. Even through the sunglasses, Sunghoon can feel Jay's gaze boring at them, judging for being unprofessional. "Get off me."

"Nah," Jake sings and he steps forward, legs bumping into Sunghoon's causing him to stumble. "Let's give Jay-ssi a show, hm?"

"Are you crazy?" Sunghoon elbows Jake's stomach with enough strength to loosen his hold on him.

Though Jake doesn't get too far, with Riki holding Jake's shoulder to steady him. So now they're both on Sunghoon. Great.

"Hyung, are you still staring at the guy?" At least Riki sounds genuinely confused. Sunghoon can't deal with him joining Jake on the teasing. "You haven't talked to him, like, at all?"

"See, this is what we're trying to do," Jake grins and moves to crowd Sunghoon again. Riki, his hands still on Jake's shoulder, follows his movement and they all begin to stumble onto each other. "Let's try to make Jay-ssi jealous and maybe he'll man up and talk to you."

"He did talk to me!" Sunghoon says through gritted teeth. Jake is strong when he puts his mind to it and Sunghoon, for the life of him, can't get out of his grip. "We talked yesterday after the shoot ended. Just because you guys didn't see doesn't mean it didn't happen."

Riki has a scary smirk plastered on his face,one eerily similar to Jake's. Sunghoon narrows his eyes at him when their youngest reaches out to tuck a stray hair behind his ear. "Oho, did you now, hyung? He is really sexy today."

Before Sunghoon can react, Jake leans even closer causing their noses to brush, Riki's warmth radiating close by. He has his head hovering right next to Jake's and with the two of them crowding Sunghoon like this, his eyes flit towards Jay almost instinctively.

Jay is still looking at them. Or at least, he's still facing their direction, body unmoving from his spot.

"Guys," Sunghoon grumbles and hopes his anxiety didn't seep into his voice. "Back off please, people are staring."

Finally, Jake relents and lets go. Sunghoon takes two steps back for good measure, leaving Riki to cling on Jake, pouting exaggeratedly.

"He's the only one staring you know," Riki nods his head to Jay's way. "I think. I can definitely feel his murderous gaze on me."

"He's definitely staring," Jake agrees but he looks apologetic. Sunghoon huffs and when Jake makes his way back to his side, he doesn't shoo him away. "If you think you can impress him with your photography skills, I guess, well, keep on taking pictures? Or, if you're happy with hiding behind your camera and not talk to your crush. Again. I guess."

"Damn, if Jay-ssi is already jealous of us then he's also got it bad, then," Riki says with a cackle. He walks past Jake and puts an arm around Sunghoon, spinning them with a bounce. "I guess you gotta do what you gotta do to get that —"

"Okay!" Sunghoon shrieks, officially mortified. He puts their skip to an abrupt stop though it doesn't phase Riki's laughter or Jake's giggling. "I don't want to get.. that." Taking a deep breath, Sunghoon lowers his voice and prays no one has been listening. "I just.. like to look at him. Okay? He's nice to look at."

"And you're making sure you get enough pictures of him before the day ends. So you can stare at them even when he's not here. Right, right," Jake nods in mock seriousness. Sunghoon wishes he can strangle him.

"Maybe if you talk to him," Riki starts somewhat placatingly. "And then you can get his number so you can see him outside of working hours. And, you know, go on a date. Then you can get in his —"

"No," Sunghoon grumbles, rubbing his face. "Riki, please. Shut the fuck up."

"Aww, look, Hoon," Jake puts his arm around Sunghoon's waist again, although this time his grip isn't as tight. He maneuvers them until they're back to facing Jay again.

This time, they find Jay bickering with Sunoo, Jungwon and Heeseung. The sight of Jay at a loss, Sunoo and Jungwon sending jabs at the bodyguard, and Heeseung snickering in the background brings a smile to Sunghoon's face. He stays rooted in his spot, watches completely endeared as Jungwon tackles Jay and sends him staggering, flimsily trying to keep his balance.

Sunghoon feels Jake staring at him, a gentle smile playing on his lips too. "Mr. Good Looking looks pretty good, huh?"

"Yeah," Sunghoon agrees softly.

The weight of Jake's stare doesn't feel intimidating so Sunghoon braves himself to lift his camera and takes a picture of the spectacle unfolding across him. Jay, even with the frustrated frown on his face, still indulges in Jungwon's play-fighting. The zoom lets Sunghoon see how gentle his eyes are despite the furrowed eyebrows, and the knowledge does something to him. How cute.. how sweet. Jay is so sweet.

His friends say nothing when Sunghoon takes his time to snap more pictures of Jay and the rest. He's grateful they're done with their teasing and is now simply letting him be, giving him the courage to capture Jay surrounded by his own friends. When Sunghoon goes through his camera, a soft smile blooms on his face, thoroughly amused with Jay's expressive eyebrows and how pouty his lips are.

Ah. Sunghoon is still at work, though. They're merely on a lunch break. So he forces himself to walk away, Jake and Riki tailing behind him.

*

What the hell. Jay knows those are Sunghoon's co-workers. What are their names? Riki and — Jack? Jake?

Yeah, okay. Maybe they're Sunghoon's friends like how his three idiot children are also Jay's friends. Jay is comfortable enough to call them his friends but they're not touchy. The most they do is put an arm on a shoulder, a pat on the back. Or, in Jungwon's case when he goes a bit feral, tackle and strangle him.

But a waist grab? The head on the shoulder? Jay's right eye twitches behind the sunglasses. And, seriously, thank fucking God for these sunglasses. Because what the hell? Really?

Fuck Jack's thick, veiny hands. Seriously fuck Jack. Riki's teasing looked much friendlier than Jake's — Jack? Jake? Whatever the fuck his name is — very close, very intimate touches. And the way he leans closer to Sunghoon? The way Sunghoon blushed? His eyes looking away like a lost bunny?

Fuck. Jay wants to touch too. Now that he's seen Sunghoon's waist wrapped in another man's arms, Jay wants that so bad too. Fuck. He wants to tease Sunghoon and make him all flustered. But yesterday's conversation proved to be a disastrous first impression since Jay's the one who stuttered and embarrassed himself.

Fuck, fuck. It's so unfair that anyone within Sunghoon's ten meter radius is attractive. They look good with him. Jake looks good with him. Jay wants to go up to them and shove him away but then again, who is he to do all of that?

He's only had one conversation with Sunghoon and yet he wants him this bad. Maybe he needs to go to a club tonight to let off some steam. It's not like he'll be seeing Sunghoon anytime soon, so he needs to do something.

The thought of leaving today's photoshoot without anything does break his pride a tiny bit. Jay has to at least talk to Sunghoon one more time. Or, better yet, get his phone number. Yes, that's the right thing to do.

His sunglasses allowed him to watch Sunghoon and his friends shamelessly. The lenses aren't big to hide his eyebrows, though, and Jay wonders desperately if Sunghoon can see how he's frowning at them.

Jay doesn't even care if they're at work. Fuck. If he can, he would be touching Sunghoon like that too. If Jay has the privilege, he would've been abusing it like crazy. But no. Jay is a stranger who met Sunghoon yesterday. Whose conversation only lasted maybe three minutes. That's who Jay is in Sunghoon's life.

Sometimes, in the middle of his friends' teasing, Sunghoon would look up and meet his eyes. Jay almost thinks the photographer can see where his focus is but then just as fast, he looks away. His face flushed a pretty shade of red and — fuck.

Fuck.

"Ugh," Sunoo grumbles from his seat. Jungwon has finally got off of Jay and he's left to heave for air. This kid. "He's gone now."

"He likes you, hyung," Jungwon brushes the front of his pants dramatically and takes the chair next to Sunoo. "He was all giggly when he took those pictures of us."

"And Sunghoon-ssi is probably too nice to think Wonnie strangling you is a fun watch," Heeseung sighs mournfully. "I can't believe this. He likes you!"

Good thing he has.. whatever this is, feeding his pride. His jealousy dissipates enough Jay manages a smug smile. "What can I say.. it's part of my charm."

Jay must be a bit blind, then, since his friends are saying it like it's obvious. And for them to admit it so blatantly, not even hiding behind any teasing, means it's serious. Sunghoon is definitely intrigued by him, be it in a romantic or not, Jay can't tell just yet. But the most important thing is he knows for sure he's managed to catch Sunghoon's attention.

It also means Jay has won whatever war he accidentally got himself into.

"Fine," Heeseung groans with an eye roll. "I don't fucking care. Sure. Sunghoon-ssi can have Jay for all I care. See if I do."

Jungwon snorts a laugh and Jay doesn't even get to defend himself before Sunoo adds more fuel into the already raging fire.

"Because of course the sexiest man on earth is into losers!" The model groans, head falling back onto his chair dramatically. "And of course he'll be into Jay. He's, like, the biggest loser I know! And he won't be into me because I'm not a loser!"

"Well," Jungwon shrugs and he doesn't even look apologetic. "That's really one way to put it."

"I'm —" Jay sputters and it's embarrassing how speechless he got. But there's nothing much they can say to dampen his mood, the flabbergasted expression quickly washed away, his lips are already curling back into a smile. "You know what, it's not so bad being the biggest loser in the world. If it means having Sunghoon-ssi for myself."

Jungwon gives him a long suffering look and pats his back so roughly he nearly falls over. "Poor Sunghoon-ssi. God bless him but poor Sunghoon-ssi, for real. Though I guess it's good for you if he's into that."

"Won," Sunoo whines and he actually stomps his feet. "Don't encourage him!"

Jay grimaces. "Right."

*

Jay has never felt so happy hearing the staff congratulating them for the day's hard work. His mind wanders as he bows, only thinking of one person.

Sunghoon.

It's the end of the day. End of the entire project, really. If he wants to get a hold of Sunghoon, he needs to do it now whilst everyone is packing up, before they really leave the venue.

He inadvertently makes eye-contact with Heeseung and Jungwon both already looking back at him with a knowing expression. They're both aware of who Jay is looking for and it shows from Heeseung's scowl, joined by Jungwon's tiresome wave, silently telling him to leave.

And so Jay does before he can run into Sunoo. He's even worse than Heeseung and will definitely make a fuss out of Jay shooting his shot one last time.

The chances of meeting Sunghoon's team again isn't low, seeing how good Sunoo works with him. From the glimpses Jay caught, the photos from the past two days looked amazing and he overheard the staff being happy with the results. The two parties can definitely schedule another project again and Jay could definitely see Sunghoon again in the near future.

But Jay doesn't want to risk the chance. The quicker he makes sure Sunghoon knows who he is, the safer he feels leaving this project. He doesn't want to just be a fleeting memory of some hot guy in Sunghoon's mind. If the universe can at least give him the opportunity for them to talk more..

With no more shame in him, Jay asks the staff around for Sunghoon's whereabouts. He does get a few amused looks and if it were yesterday, Jay would've fidgeted uncomfortably. But the need to find Sunghoon is as strong as ever, so much so he quickly moves on to the next person the moment they don't have an answer he wants.

Jay purposefully ignores Jack looking directly at him, failing to hide his snickers behind his hand. If this guy won't tell him where Sunghoon is even though he knows then Jay isn't going to bother.

It's Riki who takes pity and finally approaches him, letting Jay know Sunghoon is actually in the back, packing his stuff in the privacy of their crew's waiting room. Jay thanks him and Riki responds by literally shoving him away.

So, there he is. Jay had made sure this was the room, had asked three different people for confirmation. He wipes his sweaty palms on his pants, except it's no use because he's wearing dress pants and it doesn't dry his hands well. Great. So he's gonna have to face Sunghoon with sweaty hands.

What if Sunghoon offers a handshake? Jay hastily tries to wipe his hands on his shirt. If Sunghoon can feel just how sweaty he got, he's gonna get grossed out. Which absolutely cannot happen. Jay's here to make a good impression, better than yesterday's. The very least Jay has to do is say his name. Stupid him didn't even introduce himself and Jay is going to make sure Sunghoon leaves the venue being able to put a name to his face.

Taking a deep breath, Jay knocks on the door and without waiting for a reply, he lets himself in. The room is empty, save for Sunghoon who's standing by the table, rummaging with his bag. Even under the bad yellow lighting of the room, out of nature's sight, Sunghoon is still as beautiful as ever. The baby blue outfit he wore compliments his pale skin, hair falling softly making him appear angelic. So focused on his task, Sunghoon doesn't notice Jay gently closing the door and walking over to him.

"Hey," Jay greets, both hands behind his back. Sunghoon hums in response, not entirely surprised at his entrance. He looks up without a hurry but his eyes widen when he registers who's currently in front of him.

"Jay-ssi." Jay-ssi. Jay can hear Sunghoon say his name all day, even with the formality attached to it. "What are you doing here?"

"You know my name," Jay observes and his ears begin to ring. "I don't think I said it yesterday?"

Sunghoon stills, clearly caught off-guard. His posture then relaxes, head inching closer like a challenge. "I have my ways of knowing people who interest me."

"Ah," Jay bristles, heat crawling up his neck. "You think I'm.."

"Your sunglasses are hard to miss," Sunghoon giggles, his head falling back slightly. With the top button of his shirt undone, Jay catches a sliver of skin, taunting him. "And, well.. we did talk yesterday. I wanted to know why Sunoo-ssi's bodyguard went out of his way to make small talk with me."

"Because you're.." None of the words Jay wants to say sound appropriate. Everything he could think of to describe his feelings feels way too strong for a second conversation. "You're.. uh.. I just wanted to talk to you."

Nice. What a way to go.

Sunghoon's laughter echoes throughout the room once more. Jay is infinitely grateful he managed to corner him in an empty room like this. "I wanted to talk to you too."

Jay freezes at the admission, not expecting it to come out of Sunghoon's mouth. So smoothly at that too.

"Yeah?" Jay croaks. He sneaks his hands into his back pocket, trying to hide his trembling fingers. And also wipe his sweat again. "You.. wanted to talk to me."

"Yeah," Sunghoon nods with a smile and takes a step forward. "I wanted to.. return the compliment."

Jay blinks. Fuck. Fuck it's not fair how quickly he's rendered speechless. "Compliment?" Is the only word he manages to squeak out and he cringes outwardly at how his voice cracked.

"You told me I'm beautiful. Yesterday,"Sunghoon reiterates though there's no teasing when he says it. "And.. well, thank you, but I wanted to let you know that you're not so bad yourself."

This time Jay raises a hand to point at himself. "Me?!" His jaw drops and he definitely looks fucking ridiculous.

Jay is truly the biggest loser in the whole world.

"Yes," Sunghoon sings, his eyes turning into crescents. He's so beautiful. "If anything, you're the one who's really handsome. You of all people should consider modeling."

"What?" Jay waves his hands frantically, trying to act coy. "Pfft, no! Of course not. Me? Me, I —" Jay sputters more nonsense while Sunghoon looks at him with a quirk of his brow. "I'm not — No. No," Jay shakes his head and moves back. The weight of Sunghoon's stare has never felt so overwhelming. "I can't believe — You! You're, like, even more beautiful than Sunoo and he's the model, and I can't believe you are telling me —"

"Jay-ssi," Sunghoon interrupts and walks towards him, closing the distance. They're now close enough that if one of them takes another step, their chests will touch. "You've been staring at me."

Jay gulps at the easy way Sunghoon mentions his observation. "I.."

"I was staring at you too," Sunghoon adds and for the first time, he looks bashful. "You're very mesmerizing, Jay-ssi. I couldn't look away." The closeness further highlights their height difference and the sight of Sunghoon towering over him does things to Jay's head. Sunghoon tilts his head, fluttering his eyelashes teasingly. "Is it like that for you too?"

Sunghoon's citrus, fresh perfume is so strong it's making Jay lightheaded. "Uh," Jay wheezes unattractively. "Yeah."

"Yeah?" Sunghoon dips his head and Jay can feel the heat radiating off him. "Because I'm beautiful?"

"Yeah." It's the only word he can say. The air around them is heavy and even his breathing sounds too loud. "You're gorgeous."

Any thought of showing himself as a confident, suave guy has flown out long ago. Jay's eyes dart nervously across Sunghoon's face, taking note of each mole decorating his skin. One, two, three. Everything about Sunghoon is so beautiful and it's so, so distracting, and Jay kinda wants to throw up, and, shit, he smells so good —

"Jay-ssi," Sunghoon calls out for him again. His lips barely move but this close, a whisper is enough for Jay to hear him. "What happens if I ask you to kiss me?"

The moment Jay processes the request, his heart starts to beat so loudly he can feel his whole body shaking, vision blurring slightly. The most attractive person he's ever encountered just asked for a kiss. Jay. To kiss Sunghoon.

'What do you think?' Jay wants to throw the question back, wants to gain the strength to tease Sunghoon too. What kind of person would refuse a kiss from the Park Sunghoon? Is he crazy? Does Sunghoon think Jay is crazy enough to say no?

The silence stretches between them a few seconds too long, Jay's thoughts going haywire. Sunghoon doesn't look deterred and instead cranes his head even closer.

"Can I kiss you, Jay-ssi?"

Jay is a loser. And a wimp. And an idiot. His brain has officially started working and his mouth wouldn't even open to form a coherent response. He only manages a stiff nod, still too dumbfounded by the situation he's put in. And then Sunghoon's lips are against his and — oh.

Sunghoon's are so nice. They're so soft against his and he must've worn some sort of lip product because Jay can sense the artificial cherries, taste oddly pleasant at the tip of his tongue. Sunghoon kisses him slowly, carefully, the act so gentle it squeezes Jay's heart. There's no rush in his movements as Sunghoon tilts his head slightly to get a better angle and Jay feels a giggle reverberating against his skin.

A hand reaches up to rest on Jay's shoulder while another holds his other arm gently. Sunghoon gives the arm a squeeze and it manages to snap Jay from his motionless state.

It's a shame. Just when his mind cleared up, Sunghoon pulled away, a pretty blush spreading across his cheeks.

"Ah," Sunghoon pulls his arm to cover his lips, eyes looking away. His neck is starting to match the shade of his face. "I'm sorry. I got carried away."

Carried away? That was barely even a kiss. The things Jay wants to do with Sunghoon will look worse when compared to what they just did.

"No," Jay rasps. He reaches for Sunghoon's wrist and tug his arm away, letting his pretty face be in full view once more. "Can we do that again?"

Jay doesn't wait for an answer. He surges forward to claim Sunghoon's mouth, action so forceful it causes them to stumble a few steps back. Sunghoon's hands scramble to balance himself and Jay is lucky to be able to quickly find their footing, his own hands finding their place on the photographer's waist.

"Fuck," Jay gasps. He licks Sunghoon's lips, demanding entrance, and when he relents, Jay's tongue is quick to explore his mouth.

Sunghoon tastes so fucking sweet. And minty. Fuck. Not being able to hold himself, Jay nibbles on Sunghoon's bottom lip and the taste of artificial cherries welcomes him once more. He's sure he's wiped Sunghoon's lip-gloss clean with how messy he's being, lips are now swollen and drenched with his saliva. Something hot coils in Jay's stomach when the thought forms in his head, the image so enticing he pulls away, just to see it with his own two eyes.

Nothing prepares him for the view in front of him. Sunghoon pants heavily, his lips shiny and long, thick eyelashes stuck together from his tears. He looks like a dream and Jay fucking prays this isn't one.

"Shit," Jay growls, squeezing his waist possessively. Sunghoon's fingers dig into his shoulder and he hopes it leaves a mark. "You're so fucking hot."

"Kiss me again," Sunghoon whines, fluttering his eyelashes. "Jay-ah."

Jay-ah. Fuck. Sunghoon asks so prettily. It's insane he has him in his arms. Jay slots his lips against Sunghoon's, his movements deliberate and slower than his previous hungry kiss, making sure to savor the way he tastes.

The breathy moan Sunghoon lets out goes straight into Jay's cock. Which is a horrible, horrible thing. The rational part of Jay's mind that has been pushed to the very back is beginning to ring warning alarms, reminding him they're still at work. He didn't even lock the door. Anyone can come in.

But then Sunghoon tugs his hair, his blunt nails grazing Jay's skin, and the worry disappears as quickly as it came. He allows his fingers to brush against Sunghoon's cheeks and lets out a pleased hum as he feels the softness of his skin.

Fuck. "Fuck," Jay growls and pulls away, only for his lips to meet Sunghoon's neck, breathing in his scent. The desire that clouded him the past two days has finally reached its peak now that he has Sunghoon in his arms. So he ignores the warning alarms yet again and nibbles on the pale skin, his fingers tugging the loops of his pants.

Every assumption he's made about Sunghoon so far has been correct. He's so fucking gorgeous and the real thing is ten times crazier than the images he conjured in his head. Every hitch of breath, every whimper Sunghoon lets out is making him harder and in a more ideal scenario, they're in a proper bedroom with actual privacy. Their predicament doesn't stop Jay from practically mauling Sunghoon who trembles beneath him.

The last remnants of his sanity managed to push him away from staying in one spot for too long so the marks he left on Sunghoon won't become too bad. Jay has half the mind to keep going but then Sunghoon's hand is on his chest, gently pushing him away.

They break apart slowly, both panting heavily. Sunghoon's legs had turned to jelly at some point during their make out session and it's only because of Jay's grip on him that they haven't fallen to the floor yet. While part of him doesn't mind doing the deed on the floor right now, Jay doesn't want to offend Sunghoon by trying to fuck him on the dirty floor tiles.

Sunghoon's skin glistens under the light, Jay being able to see the trail of kisses he made going from his neck to his shoulder. It seemed he had accidentally unbuttoned more of Sunghoon's shirt because Jay gets to see more of his chest. He wants to go back and mark more of Sunghoon's skin. Again.

"Whoa there," Sunghoon chuckles, breathless. It amazes Jay that despite his ruffled state, Sunghoon still manages to sound composed, even raising an amused eyebrow at him. "You like me that much?"

"Well, yeah," Jay mumbles, voice shaky. "Have you seen yourself?"

"My apologies," Sunghoon croons and sneaks both arms around Jay's neck, fingers are hot when it touches the ends of his hair. "I didn't.. I wasn't sure what I was expecting."

Their previous.. activities has loosened Jay, his previous awkward, stilted persona now replaced by someone more relaxed. He hopes he looks sexy when he tilts his chin up and smirks. "Well, I've been wanting to taste you since yesterday, so."

Sunghoon squeaks at the confession. "Yesterday?"

"Did you know your shirt yesterday was kinda see-through?" Jay asks instead, possessiveness clouding his mind again. "Wanted to mark you up since I noticed."

That was probably out of line with Sunghoon letting out a soft gasp, blinking owlishly at him. He really didn't need to know all of Jay's thoughts but now that he's gotten a taste of Sunghoon, he finds himself not minding being so exposed.

In fact, Sunghoon's shyness only amplifies his already skyrocketing ego. It's his turn to fluster the photographer, and Jay is going to enjoy every second he gets.

"Wow," Sunghoon breathes, grinning so wide his fangs poke out between his lips. His fangs. Jay is horny all over again. "As much as I love to have you on me again, I don't really want to do it here. While we're at work."

So Jay made the right move of not pushing Sunghoon down on the floor and have his way. Almost immediately, he feels horrible. Regardless of how much he wanted Sunghoon, Jay shouldn't be treating him so poorly.

"Right," Jay agrees distractedly, bouncing his weight from one foot to the other. "I'm sorry I.. I got carried away. I promise, I'm not usually like this."

"Oh?" Sunghoon tilts his head. "What are you usually like, then?"

"I would take you out on a date first," Jay says the words slowly, watching closely for any minuscule changes in Sunghoon's expression. "Maybe one or two, before we.. you know."

Sunghoon raises his brow in a challenge. "Before you fuck me?"

"If you want to, of course," Jay hurries to add and he's back to being a stuttering mess. "I hope I'm not reading the signs wrong since we're already here," Jay nods at their position, still in each other's arms, for emphasis. "But I would actually love to take you out on a date and get to know you better. Not just for sex. If you want to."

It's the truth. Jay isn't saying this to woo Sunghoon and just get into his pants. He does want to spend more time with him. Jay wants to listen to Sunghoon's voice, wants to know more of what he loves, wants to feel his hands in his.

He must've said the right thing. Sunghoon's grin widens, his hand giving Jay's shoulder a squeeze. "I'm really happy you asked."

The confirmation settles deep in his heart and Jay's own smile blooms across his face, his body already feeling light. He presses his thumb gently but firmly, just above where the waistband of Sunghoon's pants sit. "It's a date?"

Sunghoon cradles his jaw and gives a light kiss on his cheek. "It's a date."

*

"Just where the fuck were you?" Jungwon asks exasperatedly. "We're leaving in five minutes."

Jay tries his best to make himself look presentable but Heeseung is already staring at him like a hawk, picking him apart for anything misplaced. It doesn't help that Jay can't wipe the giddy smile off his face, Sunghoon's personal number saved in his phone.

"I know it's the end of the day but can you at least act less excited about getting off work?" Sunoo huffs, now changed in comfortable clothes. "You're gross, hyung."

"Yeah, yeah," Jay waves them off easily as he packs his things. "I was with Sunghoon-ssi, by the way."

"Hah?" Sunoo whips his head towards him. "What did you just say?"

"We talked," Jay shrugs and tries to act nonchalant but his grin only grows wider. "And, well.. Let's just say I'm happy I'm the biggest loser on earth."

Sunoo gasps, the sound extra scandalous. "What?!"

"No," Heeseung whispers, mortified. "No."

"Yeah," Jay sings. This is the best day ever. "Yeah."

"Fuck!" Sunoo reaches over to shake him but it doesn't take a second for the younger to notice his rumpled shirt and his slightly swollen lips. Sunoo's eyes dart between Jay's shirt, neck, and back to his face, mortified. "No way," his jaw drops. "You.. Sunghoon-ssi.."

"Yeah," Jay smirks, folding his arms. "Yeah."

Jungwon closes his eyes. "Oh my God."

"Park Jongseong I'm going to fucking kill you!"