All They Ever Wanted [2/2]
Title: All They Ever Wanted [2/2]
Author: FloweryMisha
Pairing: BaekYeol
Warning: BoyxBoy love. Enough said.
Summary: Baekhyun couldn’t stop, because loving Chanyeol was the best thing in the world.
[1]
The news shocked Baekhyun too much that he wasn’t able to comment anything.
Chanyeol groaned and hissed something in a foreign language at Yifan. It seemed to be a cuss because Yifan’s expression hardened. The situation between Chanyeol and Yifan was so thick that Baekhyun absently thought he could slice it. His husband then told him to make some coffee and Baekhyun excused himself to the kitchen. He was just about to walk back into the living room with a tray of three cups of coffee when he overheard Chanyeol’s heavy voice.
“...told you this?”
Baekhyun paused reluctantly. Maybe he shouldn’t interrupt...
“Junmyeon has nothing to do with this,” came Yifan’s firm reply. “When I showed up yesterday, he looked a bit scared and panicked and that’s why I took his phone. And guess what? His habit of not deleting things is still there and I easily found your texts. Did you even tell Baekhyun that Junmyeon is your brother in law?”
“I didn’t.”
“Why not?”
“I just didn’t, okay? And Junmyeon-hyung didn’t want to freak Baekhyun out-he told him you’re my best friend. Just-just tell me, Yifan. Why are you here?”
Yifan narrowed his eyes and straightened on his seat. “You’ve been avoiding our family for months, Chanyeol. I know it’s-“
There was a sound at the door and the blond male fell silent. The two men snapped their heads toward the direction and a very embarrassed Baekhyun appeared.
“I’m sorry, I’ll just-“
“Baby,” Chanyeol motioned him to come closer. “It’s all right. I need the coffee.”
“Y-yes...”
Yifan gave Baekhyun an unreadable stare and the latter squirmed under the gaze. Baekhyun settled the tray down on the table and handed Chanyeol his usual coffee. His hand paused at the cup he planned to give Yifan but he hesitated momentarily. Yifan seemed to realize this, too.
“I-I don’t know how your coffee should be...”
Yifan’s brows raised slightly at Baekhyun’s shy remark and his eyes softened at him. “Two sugar and cream, please.”
Baekhyun awkwardly nodded and got up to the kitchen. When he got back with two packs of sugar and cream, Yifan and Chanyeol still said nothing to each other. Chanyeol sipped his drink as he rubbed his forehead in annoyance. He obviously didn’t like the fact that Yifan showed up.
“Where are your parents, Baekhyun?”
Baekhyun looked up in surprise because the question was addressed to him.
“Did they look for you?”
“This isn’t about him,” Chanyeol said defensively and moved closer to Baekhyun. “I said, leave him alone, Yifan.”
“If he’s family, then he’s in this too,” Yifan frowned. “What the hell were you thinking, Chanyeol? You didn’t just marry someone without their parents’ consent.”
Chanyeol snorted in pure mockery. “Oh, so it’s better for me to just follow your footsteps and marry someone that is decided for you.”
“Leave Junmyeon out of this.”
“Oh, if he’s family, then he’s in this too.”
Yifan seemed upset by his brother’s words. His sharp intake of breath could be heard as he pointed at Baekhyun. “You took him away from his family. How long has it been? You’re lucky that his parents haven’t filed anything against you!”
“You!” Chanyeol snapped back. “You know nothing about what happened to us! You have no right to-“
“Chanyeol, stop!” Baekhyun cried as he reached for the taller male’s sleeve. He hated Chanyeol’s rising tone because it scared the hell out of him.
“Baek-“
“Stop, please...” Baekhyun whispered and leaned his head on Chanyeol’s shoulder. “Don’t get into a fight...”
Chanyeol placed a hand on Baekhyun’s silken hair and murmured a soft apology into Baekhyun’s ear. His spouse seemed totally confused with everything that happened and he didn’t blame him. The male breathed deeply before craning his head back to his brother.
“Just leave for now, Yifan.”
Baekhyun tightened his grip on Chanyeol’s sleeve.
“You know where the door is.”
***
Baekhyun woke up with an uncomfortable feeling.
He gasped softly the minute his eyes opened and blinked for several times. His surrounding was still dark. Baekhyun closed his eyes and realized he was sweating. Nightmare...? He covered his eyes with the back of his hand and exhaled deeply through his nose. Baekhyun glanced over his shoulder at the alarm clock by the nightstand. 2:13 am. I should go back to sleep... He rolled over to the side, wanting to snuggle closer to Chanyeol-
-only to find that his husband wasn’t there.
Click.
Baekhyun blinked. “Chanyeol...?”
Click.
“Chan-“
“I’m right here, Baek.”
Baekhyun let out a dramatic sigh as he sat up and stared into the darkness. He knew Chanyeol was there. He also happened to know that it was Chanyeol’s bad habit when he had something on his mind. “What are you doing there...?”
Click.
“Taking pictures of you.”
“It’s time to sleep, Chanyeol, not time to take a picture. Besides, it’s dark. You’re not gonna be able to take a good picture.”
“But you’re so damn beautiful in your sleep. And clearly you’re underestimating my camera skills.”
“I didn’t... You need your sleep, too.”
“I can think clearly whenever I look at your adorable sleeping face.”
Click.
Baekhyun pressed his lips into a thin line and he crossed his arms on his chest. “What are you thinking about...?”
He could hear Chanyeol shifting on his seat but he didn’t get any reply.
“Chanyeol,” Baekhyun half whined. “Come here.”
“Just a moment.”
“Chanyeol, I’m cold. Come here now.”
Chanyeol chuckled in amusement as he finally pulled himself off of the loveseat and walked to their bed. He laid down beside Baekhyun and Chanyeol was a bit startled when Baekhyun searched for his lips despite the darkness. Even though it was dark, the way their lips met weren’t sloppy and the couple exchanged sweet, longing kisses.
“How long have you been up like this...?” Baekhyun murmured against his spouse’s lips.
Chanyeol was silent. “Quite a while.”
“Why didn’t you wake me up?”
“Because you’re such a heavy sleeper.”
Baekhyun pouted as he playfully placed a hand over Chanyeol’s eyes. “Shut up. Now sleep.”
Chanyeol snickered lightly and pretended to close his eyes. He tried going back to sleep, but he couldn’t. All this time, he managed to hide the fact well from Baekhyun that he was just as scared as him. If Baekhyun was scared of being found by his parents, then Chanyeol was scared if it ever happened because it would mean they would take him away.
He wouldn’t know what to do if Baekhyun was taken away from him.
Yifan was right.
He was lucky not to have Baekhyun’s parents sue him. He was lucky to be able to live together with Baekhyun for the past months. Baekhyun’s parents could accuse him of kidnapping and then it could end up in court. Although his family’s lawyer would put a hell of a fight too if that happened.
“Chanyeol.”
The said male rolled over to face Baekhyun. “Hm?”
“I saw some strangers downtown earlier today.”
“...and?”
“I’m not sure who they were. But they were searching for someone...”
Chanyeol stiffened. “Are you sure, Baek...?”
“They could be looking for someone else,” Baekhyun tried to assure Chanyeol, even though his voice showed that he too, wasn’t sure. “I’m-I’m scared...”
Chanyeol felt Baekhyun snuggled closer and the latter pressed his face against his chest. Chanyeol found himself gritting his teeth. “It’s alright. Yifan’s here. If he’s around, you-both of us will be safe.”
No one’s going to take you away from me.
“Chanyeol...?”
Can I think like that...?
“Yes.”
“Go to sleep, baby. I’ll never leave you...”
“Really...?”
It was never meant to be a doubt, but Chanyeol just couldn’t help it. The question just slipped out of his mouth automatically. Baekhyun pulled away from him and pressed his palm against Chanyeol’s chest.
“I trusted you, right? Now you need to trust me...”
Chanyeol slowly nodded and the male let Baekhyun caressing his cheeks. He shut his eyes when he felt the older male pressing his lips lightly, repeatedly on his cheeks. Damn. It’s comforting. Chanyeol instinctively curled his arms around Baekhyun’s waist. If on any other night it was Baekhyun who cuddled to him, for tonight, it was the other way around. The black haired male buried his face on Baekhyun’s neck, letting the latter stroke his hair. His hands must have contained magic because his insecurities were starting to disappear.
He felt peaceful.
Within minutes, Chanyeol fell asleep.
***
Baekhyun had never asked much about Chanyeol.
So when Chanyeol started talking the next morning, he listened intently.
It was the first time for Chanyeol to ever talk about his family. He talked about how his real father died and when he and his mother traveled to Beijing, they met Yifan’s father. It took quite a while for his mother to fall in love and accepted his step father’s proposal. Chanyeol didn’t really care because for him, no one could replace his biological father, but he knew his mother needed someone and so he agreed as long as it made her happy.
Park was his father’s family name-which explained why Yifan introduced himself as a Wu.
“A few years ago, Yifan’s-our father died,” Chanyeol reminisced and his eyes were getting distant as he recalled. “Everything was like a hurricane back then. Yifan was forced to take over the company and Umma wanted me to help him, but I didn’t want to. I could never picture myself as the type who would sit behind the desk. I’m more like a field person, you know...? I enjoy my freedom.”
Baekhyun smiled. Of course he knew.
“I felt really bad back then. I mean, Yifan carried the burden all by himself. Honestly, it must have been really hard for him to take orders from Umma-my mother, and not his biological one. He had to carry the expectation of a lot of people and he had to succeed in order to prevent bankruptcy. Yifan was just twenty one years old when it happened. He was mature enough, but not me. I was nineteen and I just wanted to leave for sure.”
Chanyeol grimaced.
“Yifan almost snapped when my mother told him he was getting married. He was too stressed by everything that the thought of marrying a stranger drove him insane.”
“So...so he didn’t like Junmyeon at first?”
“He-“ Chanyeol watched him unblinkingly. “Wait. You found out?”
Baekhyun bashfully nodded. “I overheard the other day... Junmyeon-hyung is your brother in law. Now I understand why you trust him so much. Enough about that, continue with the story. Go on.”
“...okay, well... All of his beliefs vanished instantly when he met Junmyeon. Yifan swallowed down all of his words-all the plans to scold and snap and everything were canceled the moment they met. Damn, I have never seen Yifan stuttering that bad before. But what can I say-Junmyeon-hyung really is beautiful. I guess that’s what people called love at first sight.”
Chanyeol grinned, but it faltered when Baekhyun stayed quiet. He swept Baekhyun’s bangs to a side.
“Do you hate me?”
“What?” Baekhyun looked up in surprise. “I-I don’t...”
“It would be better if you do,” Chanyeol lowered his head. “I mean, all of this happened because I wasn’t honest with you. We probably wouldn’t have to run away like this. And you wouldn’t have to live each day in fear of getting found.”
“I love you without your status,” Baekhyun whispered desperately. “Please don’t say that. I swear I regret nothing...”
“I know. But...we can’t keep on living like this...”
Baekhyun almost couldn’t bear what Chanyeol was thinking. He didn’t think he would be ready for whatever it was that Chanyeol was going to say. He leaned forward to hug his husband tightly. “Then...what do you want us to do...?”
Chanyeol didn’t answer.
He only embraced Baekhyun back in return.
***
Chanyeol was quiet for the next couple of days.
Something seemed to be on his mind and he wasn’t willing to share. Everytime Baekhyun touched his arm, silently wanting him to just say what was wrong, Chanyeol would always smile and pet his head gently. But he was still not talking.
But Baekhyun knew it had something to do with Yifan’s appearance. The older male had been dropping by a lot lately. Sometimes Junmyeon came along with him, but most of the times, he was alone. Chanyeol never said it out loud, but whenever Yifan came, Baekhyun would leave both of them to talk.
It’s probably important.
It’s probably a family matter.
It’s probably about us...
Yifan was one hell of a stubborn person. He uninvitedly showed up by their door one night with Junmyeon behind him. The latter smiled happily as he held up his hand, showing a bag of groceries.
Twenty minutes later, Baekhyun found himself preparing dinner in the kitchen with Junmyeon. The situation was awkward between them and really, after knowing that Junmyeon was his brother in law, he felt stupid for feeling jealous. Of course Chanyeol kept in touch with him. Of course Junmyeon was genuinely worried for Chanyeol.
“Would you pass me the ketchup?”
Baekhyun snapped out of his reverie and handed the mentioned item to the older male. Junmyeon uttered a soft thank you before concentrating on whatever it was that he cooked.
“Hyung?”
Junmyeon glanced at him. “Yes?”
“How long...have you been married to Yifan?”
“A few months after his father died,” Junmyeon answered after a moment of silence. “It’s our third anniversary this year.”
Baekhyun’s throat went dry. “...you seem happy.”
Junmyeon smiled. “That’s because I am.” He bit the inner part of his cheek and cleared his throat. “Yifan...told me that you ran away from home.”
“It’s not like that,” Baekhyun countered in uncertainty. It was like that.
“Well, do you still keep in touch with your parents...?”
Baekhyun chose not to answer and tried to drop the subject by washing his hands by the sink. Junmyeon realized this and he decided to not probe further.
“So...,” he started again. “Wu Baekhyun. It sounds really nice.”
“...I honestly thought it would be Park Baekhyun...”
“Oh. Um. It’s better than Wu Junmyeon?”
Baekhyun stared at Junmyeon and he got a sheepish grin in return. “...I never knew he had a Chinese father...”
“Step father,” Junmyeon corrected.
“Does he have a Chinese name?”
“Yeah. Canlie. Wu Canlie.”
“Can...” Baekhyun trailed off and an amused smile tugged on his lips. Junmyeon laughed beside him and suddenly, things were alright between them.
The dinner went okay.
Chanyeol didn’t talk much, and it was then that Baekhyun realized Yifan wasn’t that talkative either. Upon the first glance, people might think that he was very scary with his bushy eyebrows and a glare that could kill someone. But the image vanished when he was with Junmyeon. Junmyeon was the fire that could melt the ice of Yifan’s heart. Yifan’s gaze to Junmyeon was undescribable, like a mixture of grateful and caring and loving and somehow helpless without him. Like without Junmyeon, he would be lost and his life would be meaningless.
Baekhyun wished he could be that same person to Chanyeol, too.
He didn’t bother to take a shower that night after Yifan and Junmyeon went home. Baekhyun threw himself tiredly onto the bed and waited for Chanyeol to join him. He faintly heard the water running from the bathroom. Chanyeol’s taking a shower...? Should I join...? Baekhyun blushed at his thought and covered his face with his hands.
Baekhyun pretended to be asleep when he heard Chanyeol shuffled into the room. He waited until the other male was done changing into his pajamas. He waited until Chanyeol climbed onto the bed. He waited until his husband pressed his lips on the back of his neck-something that had become a habit. Chanyeol smelled fresh like soap and his entire body was cold. When Chanyeol gave him a backhug, Baekhun feigned a slight movement.
“Baek,” Chanyeol whispered.
Baekhyun tensed. Something was wrong.
“I need to go back to China to settle some things first.”
No.
“I want you to stay.”
Don’t leave me.
Baekhyun slowly looked over his shoulder and his eyes met Chanyeol’s. “Take me with you...”
Chanyeol shook his head. “I think you need to go home.”
It got Baekhyun to pull away from Chanyeol and he gave his husband a disbelief stare. “Wh-what...?”
“It’s been months, Baek. Don’t you miss your parents?”
“B-but-“
You’re the one who ask me to come with you.
“I’ll have Yifan’s driver escorted you home tomorrow. You should pack in the morning.”
“Chanyeol, I-“
“It’s just a few days until I get things sorted out-“
“But I don’t want to go home!” Baekhyun cried breathlessly.
“Baby,” Chanyeol sternly said and cupped Baekhyun’s cheeks. “I’ve been thinking for the past few days. What Yifan said was right. I’ve been running away for too long.” He sighed and trailed his fingers from Baekhyun’s cheeks to his jaw. “I’m sorry. If only I was brave enough to confront your parents about us.”
“I don’t care about that,” Baekhyun stifled a sob. “I just don’t want you to leave me...”
“I’m not,” Chanyeol whispered as he softly kissed his lips. “I won’t.”
***
Baekhyun had never felt so terrified before.
He didn’t think Chanyeol would let go, but he did.
Baekhyun wanted to scream that it wasn’t fair that Chanyeol didn’t bring him along, but what his husband said was right. They needed to face their fears. Chanyeol had been running away from home and he... If he wanted to leave, he should’ve just said so. Although it was easier to be said than done... Baekhyun didn’t think it would be that easy if he just went straight to his mother and tell her that he was head over heels for Chanyeol. Someone who she thought wouldn’t be good for him.
After a few hours of journey (Yifan had provided him a private jet and an expensive car, Baekhyun literally gaped at the fact), he finally made it back home. Yifan’s driver, a Chinese male named Zhoumi politely informed him that they had arrived and Baekhyun had a difficulty swallowing as he looked outside the window.
What if his mother rejected him...?
Then you’ll be able to go back to Chanyeol.
With wobbling feet, the male slowly got out of the expensive vehicle. As he made his way to the front door, he couldn’t help but think of the worst possibilities. His mother could’ve stopped looking for him and she didn’t give a damn anymore. They probably worked on removing Baekhyun from the family tree and planned to adopt another child.
It felt like the longest minutes of his life.
Baekhyun stood in front of the door, not knowing what to do. He twiddled his fingers nervously and just as he was about to ring the bell, the door swung open.
It was his mother.
Baekhyun froze. His mother would never let herself to do such thing. She would call the maids to open the door and then the guests would be brought to the living room.
“Baekhyun?”
What to do? What to say?
His mother looked like she was about to cry and she was already halfway to hug Baekhyun, but then she stopped. Her gaze went down to Baekhyun’s outfit and her expression changed. Baekhyun followed her glance and held his breath. He had left without bringing any clothes, so the ones he was clad in were Chanyeol’s. He must have looked awful because her expression morphed into a disgust.
“Did you run out of money?”
Her tone was cold.
“I’m-I’m sorry...?”
“Did that filth stop giving you money? Is that why you come home?”
It took Baekhyun a few seconds to register the true meaning behind the sarcastic remark and his eyes widened. His heart broke at the
accusation. Baekhyun’s lips were trembling, but it was different. If it was fear before, now it was anger building inside him. “Chanyeol-“
“Don’t you dare mention his name in this house,” she hissed through her gritted teeth. “Did you really think I couldn’t find you? Did you really think I wouldn’t find out about the small, cheap apartment you live in? I knew it. I just knew it wouldn’t last long. I knew eventually you would come back when he couldn’t give you a decent life anymore.”
“Stop,” Baekhyun pleaded helplessly.
“It was a mistake for you to leave to be with him.”
Baekhyun stared at his mother in disbelief. His mouth was slightly parted, but he was so overwhelmed by sadness that he didn’t know what to retort. Her words were cruel. She didn’t have the right to say so, she knew nothing about Chanyeol.
“Chanyeol,” he said with a quivering voice. “Is my life.”
She looked like she was about to counter his sentence, but Baekhyun didn’t let her.
“I never regretted being with him, Umma. And not for a single day, not even once in my life that I ever think it was a mistake. So don’t lash out on me because I am happy. I am happy to be with Chanyeol, the man that you would categorize as a filth. But you’re wrong, Umma, you’re wrong, because he’s not like what you think.”
Baekhyun shook his head.
“The only mistake I make is to come here. And I regret it.”
He didn’t care if his words sounded just as cruel because anger clearly had taken over. Baekhyun didn’t bother to wait for his mother’s reply, he was too tired to argue.
With that, the male spun around and left.
***
Baekhyun had a feeling he would be rejected, but he didn’t expect to hear such harsh words.
He felt broken, he felt hurt, but most of all, he felt helpless because Chanyeol wasn’t there.
The male tried to get ahold of Chanyeol, but his husband couldn’t be reached. Maybe he was still on his way to his hometown. How long had it been since they got separated? He had no idea. Baekhyun also didn’t have the slightest clue how many hours would it take from Korea to China.
He had been crying since the minute he clambered back into the car and Zhoumi didn’t even need to ask what happened. The Chinese male started driving in silence and before Baekhyun knew it, he took him to Chanyeol’s old apartment. Baekhyun’s jaw involuntarily dropped when he found out and stared at the much older male curiously. Zhoumi had spoke before he even got the chance to start.
“He told me to bring you here if you started crying.”
Baekhyun went blank. “He...?”
“Mr. Canlie.”
Baekhyun gasped mutely. Chanyeol...?
“The keys are in your bag.”
The male immediately searched in his bag and he batted his eyelashes when he found a pair of keys were placed underneath his wallet. All of a sudden, Baekhyun wanted to cry, because Chanyeol had probably prepared the item just in case everything went bad. He stifled a sob as he pressed a hand on his mouth.
Chanyeol, where are you...?
Baekhyun then was left at the apartment all by himself and Zhoumi drove away. He stepped into the place with a deep breath. Everything looked exactly like the last time they left. Even the lingering scent of lemon could still be smelled in the air. Baekhyun offhandedly threw his bag onto the couch and glanced around. His gaze drifted to the empty wall where Chanyeol said he planned to put something on it. He thought the owner of the apartment would have rented it to someone else, but perhaps it was Chanyeol’s own apartment from the start. And Chanyeol, like him, didn’t really like to flaunt.
He shuffled into the bedroom and aimed straight for the bed. Baekhyun dropped himself onto the bed with a thud and a loud sigh. The male buried his head on the pillow, clenching it tightly and slowly smiled to himself. It was where they made love for the very first time and Baekhyun shuddered, still remembering what he felt back then like it was yesterday.
Baekhyun choked.
He wanted to see Chanyeol.
Baekhyun wanted to see Chanyeol so bad that he dismissed it when someone shifted onto the bed in the middle of the night, causing it to gain more weight. He hummed sleepily when he felt his body was tugged closer into a pair of strong arms and a familiar chest.
“Chanyeol,” Baekhyun whispered.
“I’m here,” Chanyeol affectionately kissed his forehead. “I’m here...”
It was when Baekhyun woke up in the morning that he realized it wasn’t a dream. Chanyeol was sleeping soundly beside him and their hands were linked. Baekhyun’s eyes went teary at the fact that his husband was really there. He tightened his grip around Chanyeol and it caused the latter to stir awake.
A low grunt escaped Chanyeol’s lips as he gathered his soul back into life. His hand moved slightly as a sign that he was awake, but the taller male didn’t unlink their hands. “Morning.”
“Good morning,” Baekhyun replied softly and smiled. “Did you teleport...?”
Chanyeol broke into an impish smile, still with his eyes closed. “I did. Did you just find out that I have super power?” Even though he wasn’t able to see Baekhyun’s expression, he was certain that the other male rolled his eyes. “Just kidding. Did you get hurt...?”
Physically, no. Emotionally, yes.
Baekhyun shook his head. “I’m all right...”
“I should’ve come with you,” Chanyeol said quietly. “I’m sorry you had to face it all by yourself. I just-I was so selfish to let you go just like that. Dammit, I’m an ass.”
Baekhyun winced at the word. “At-at least you’re here now. It’s all I need...”
“I’m gonna do everything to fix it. We’re going back to your house today.”
Baekhyun deadpanned. “Wh-what?”
“I’m gonna meet your mother.”
“B-But-“
“Yifan’s at the hotel. He’ll probably pick us up in about an hour or so.”
“Chanyeol-“
Chanyeol’s stern gaze made him fall quiet. Baekhyun didn’t know if he still have the courage to face his family-moreover his mother, because his heart was still hurt from all her words. He just couldn’t with the fact that she said a few bad things about Chanyeol...
“Don’t be afraid,” Chanyeol leaned closer to meet their lips. “I’m with you, Baek.”
***
A few hours later, they were waiting in the living room of Baekhyun’s (huge) house.
Yifan had the nicest look of them all. He wore a shirt that was tucked neatly into his pants. Chanyeol’s brother was a definite epitome of perfection. Chanyeol’s shirt was also tucked neatly into his pants, but he had the sleeves rolled up the elbows and it gave a different image compared to Yifan. Baekhyun looked down to himself. While he was clad still in Chanyeol’s clothes.
The sound of high heels clanking on the floor made the three of them to look up and Baekhyun felt fear increased greatly within him. His mother seemed to be amazed with Yifan as the male stood up and bowed politely at her. She shifted her gaze to Chanyeol and her eyes flickered with an unreadable emotion.
“I believe you know why we’re here, Ma’am,” Yifan started politely.
His mother narrowed her eyes at Yifan before glancing back and forth between Chanyeol and her son. Baekhyun’s lips trembled slightly as he avoided his mother’s gaze.
“I don’t think I do,” she said after a while.
Yifan nodded. “We’re here because-“
“-I married your son.”
Chanyeol straightforwardly said. Baekhyun’s mother’s eyes went wide and Yifan rubbed his forehead in exasperation.
“Chanyeol-“
“Save the preamble, hyung,” Chanyeol snorted. “She doesn’t need all that courtesy. She’s-“ He stopped talking when he felt fingers skittering on his arm and turned to face Baekhyun. Baekhyun worriedly shook his head and Chanyeol suppressed the urge to growl. “Fine. I apologize.”
“I apologize for my brother’s behavior, Mrs. Byun,” Yifan added. “But he is right about the fact that he is married to Baekhyun.”
Baekhyun’s fingers tightened on Chanyeol’s sleeve as he saw the shock expression morphed into a mixture of chagrin and disgust. He felt sad, really, because it wasn’t the kind of face he expected from his mother, but there was nothing he could do.
“Is it true?”
She didn’t have her eyes on Baekhyun, but he knew it was for him.
“...yes,” Baekhyun whispered.
“Mrs. Byun,” Chanyeol started and she took a deep breath. Her eyes were anywhere but on them. “I realize the reason why you’re against my relationship with Baekhyun is because of my status. You think I’m not in the same level as you and your family. But that isn’t true.” He paused. “I’m just as rich as you are.”
“...Ryeowook did a research on you-“
“-and I bet he didn’t find anything about Park Chanyeol. Had he looked up for Wu Canlie, it would be different.”
The atmosphere in the room was suffocating and Baekhyun felt like running away as far as possible.
“That’s enough,” Yifan said firmly and Chanyeol sagged on the couch. “Mrs. Byun, the reason why we’re here is because we don’t want you to think that we do any harm to Baekhyun. He followed my brother on his own wish. No one forced him. He was willing to be with Chanyeol.”
“This past months,” she said quietly, but there was a warning laced underneath her tone. “I’ve been considering to not have him as part of the family anymore.”
Baekhyun choked.
“I see. You have every right to do that. But even if you have him removed,” Yifan said sternly. “He still has another family. He has us.” The Chinese male failed to see the emotion plastered on Baekhyun’s face when he said that because he was busy staring at Chanyeol. “I guess we’re done here.”
The oldest between them three stood up and bowed once again at Baekhyun’s mother. Chanyeol followed his movement and offered a hand to Baekhyun-which he accepted gladly. He threw one last longing look at his mother. He felt sorry-he was sorry. He was sorry for everything-for disappointing her, for not making her happy, for being an ungrateful son. But Chanyeol was his life and Baekhyun surely would choose him over his life.
“Wait.”
Baekhyun halted and waited patiently.
“Why didn’t you tell me all of this...?”
She sent him a guilty yet apologetic stare and Baekhyun felt sadness waved over his entire body. His breath became ragged and he opened his mouth to answer, but hesitated. Say something, Baekhyun. Tell her...
“I-I just found out myself,” he honestly answered. Which was true, he didn’t even know Chanyeol had family until a few days ago. His mother placed an arm on top of the other and sighed. It was then that Baekhyun knew there was still a chance. It might be small, but he wouldn’t know until he try. “...Umma?”
She lifted up her face to stare at him.
“I love Chanyeol,” Baekhyun blurted. “I love him so much...even without the status. Please, you-you have to understand... I really want to be with him. I don’t expect you to give us your blessings...but...I just need you to know that, Umma... I’m sorry...”
His mother stayed quiet for minutes. Yifan and Chanyeol stood up with their feet transfixed onto the carpeted floor, listening intently to the conversation. Baekhyun made no move to leave, but after a few moments, he forced himself to accept the rejection. Maybe it was for the best...
“Is it what you really want?”
Her eyes softened when she spoke.
“To be with him?”
Baekhyun’s heart had a sudden change of pace at the question. His throat became dry and he sucked in a deep breath. Baekhyun stared at his mother’s expression and he knew, he just knew that her soft smile was sincere. He stole a glance at his husband, and that was when he lost it.
“Yes.”
Baekhyun let the tears that he had been holding fell onto his cheeks.
“Yes, it’s all I ever want...”
End.
Few weeks had passed after that.
It wasn’t exactly a yes, but it wasn’t a no either. Slowly, but surely, his mother was starting to open up to his marriage. She was starting to invite them to dinner every once in a while and she was also starting to have casual talk with Chanyeol. They decided to just move in to the old apartment and Baekhyun couldn’t be happier, knowing that he wouldn’t lose his families.
Chanyeol went back to Baekhyun after a few days in China with a good news. He decided to open a photo studio-it took a lot of effort to convince his mother, but overall it was good. She also sent her regards to Baekhyun and Chanyeol repeated her words of ‘wanting to meet him very soon.’ His husband also allowed him to go back to the university and Baekhyun was glad because he was able to continue his degree.
Baekhyun woke up to a very tired Chanyeol beside him. The male had been staying up late last night for work and he was sure Chanyeol just went to sleep in the morning. Baekhyun kissed the taller male’s cheek caringly before sliding off of the bed, craving for a cup of coffee. He tightened his robe and walked through the living room. Baekhyun absentmindedly glanced at the empty wall. That part of the room stood out because nothing was put on it, not even a picture, a clock or a painting. But this morning, it did. Baekhyun snapped his head back to the wall and he drew in a deep breath.
There were pictures.
Pictures of him, to be exact.
It was like a shrine of Baekhyun.
His pictures were everywhere. Some of them were candid, some others were taken on purpose. There was a picture of Baekhyun glancing over his shoulder, a picture of him being shirtless in the field, a picture of his first smile to Chanyeol in the restaurant, doing his best to look good because at that moment, he wanted Chanyeol to win the competition (which later turned out that there wasn’t any competition at all).
Some of Chanyeol’s pictures were glued underneath him. His husband’s selcas brought a smile to his face because Chanyeol was good at taking pictures, but maybe he needed help with his own selcas. Baekhyun chuckled whole heartedly at Chanyeol’s pose with a pair of nerdy glasses (and dammit his husband was hot with it) and fingers forming a peace sign.
Their kissing picture was in placed in the middle.
Baekhyun had no idea when or how Chanyeol took it, but he was closing his eyes in the picture and he looked so content. Chanyeol had his back on the camera, only a glimpse of his shoulder was caught in the picture. Baekhyun trailed his fingers longingly on the picture. He looked so happy.
He was happy.
Baekhyun took a few steps back to observe more of Chanyeol’s masterpieces (the male definitely had stayed up late for arranging those) and that was when he realized there were words adorned between the pictures. He squinted his eyes to get a good look.
The words were arranged neatly into sentences.
When you’re in a relationship and it’s good
Even if nothing else in your life is right
You feel like your whole world is complete
Love me forever, Byun Baekhyun
Baekhyun cried.
Last quote by Keith Sweat.
Anyone wants a KrisHo side story ;;;;;;;;;;;
[All It Ever Was]
Author: FloweryMisha
Pairing: BaekYeol
Warning: BoyxBoy love. Enough said.
Summary: Baekhyun couldn’t stop, because loving Chanyeol was the best thing in the world.
[1]
The news shocked Baekhyun too much that he wasn’t able to comment anything.
Chanyeol groaned and hissed something in a foreign language at Yifan. It seemed to be a cuss because Yifan’s expression hardened. The situation between Chanyeol and Yifan was so thick that Baekhyun absently thought he could slice it. His husband then told him to make some coffee and Baekhyun excused himself to the kitchen. He was just about to walk back into the living room with a tray of three cups of coffee when he overheard Chanyeol’s heavy voice.
“...told you this?”
Baekhyun paused reluctantly. Maybe he shouldn’t interrupt...
“Junmyeon has nothing to do with this,” came Yifan’s firm reply. “When I showed up yesterday, he looked a bit scared and panicked and that’s why I took his phone. And guess what? His habit of not deleting things is still there and I easily found your texts. Did you even tell Baekhyun that Junmyeon is your brother in law?”
“I didn’t.”
“Why not?”
“I just didn’t, okay? And Junmyeon-hyung didn’t want to freak Baekhyun out-he told him you’re my best friend. Just-just tell me, Yifan. Why are you here?”
Yifan narrowed his eyes and straightened on his seat. “You’ve been avoiding our family for months, Chanyeol. I know it’s-“
There was a sound at the door and the blond male fell silent. The two men snapped their heads toward the direction and a very embarrassed Baekhyun appeared.
“I’m sorry, I’ll just-“
“Baby,” Chanyeol motioned him to come closer. “It’s all right. I need the coffee.”
“Y-yes...”
Yifan gave Baekhyun an unreadable stare and the latter squirmed under the gaze. Baekhyun settled the tray down on the table and handed Chanyeol his usual coffee. His hand paused at the cup he planned to give Yifan but he hesitated momentarily. Yifan seemed to realize this, too.
“I-I don’t know how your coffee should be...”
Yifan’s brows raised slightly at Baekhyun’s shy remark and his eyes softened at him. “Two sugar and cream, please.”
Baekhyun awkwardly nodded and got up to the kitchen. When he got back with two packs of sugar and cream, Yifan and Chanyeol still said nothing to each other. Chanyeol sipped his drink as he rubbed his forehead in annoyance. He obviously didn’t like the fact that Yifan showed up.
“Where are your parents, Baekhyun?”
Baekhyun looked up in surprise because the question was addressed to him.
“Did they look for you?”
“This isn’t about him,” Chanyeol said defensively and moved closer to Baekhyun. “I said, leave him alone, Yifan.”
“If he’s family, then he’s in this too,” Yifan frowned. “What the hell were you thinking, Chanyeol? You didn’t just marry someone without their parents’ consent.”
Chanyeol snorted in pure mockery. “Oh, so it’s better for me to just follow your footsteps and marry someone that is decided for you.”
“Leave Junmyeon out of this.”
“Oh, if he’s family, then he’s in this too.”
Yifan seemed upset by his brother’s words. His sharp intake of breath could be heard as he pointed at Baekhyun. “You took him away from his family. How long has it been? You’re lucky that his parents haven’t filed anything against you!”
“You!” Chanyeol snapped back. “You know nothing about what happened to us! You have no right to-“
“Chanyeol, stop!” Baekhyun cried as he reached for the taller male’s sleeve. He hated Chanyeol’s rising tone because it scared the hell out of him.
“Baek-“
“Stop, please...” Baekhyun whispered and leaned his head on Chanyeol’s shoulder. “Don’t get into a fight...”
Chanyeol placed a hand on Baekhyun’s silken hair and murmured a soft apology into Baekhyun’s ear. His spouse seemed totally confused with everything that happened and he didn’t blame him. The male breathed deeply before craning his head back to his brother.
“Just leave for now, Yifan.”
Baekhyun tightened his grip on Chanyeol’s sleeve.
“You know where the door is.”
***
Baekhyun woke up with an uncomfortable feeling.
He gasped softly the minute his eyes opened and blinked for several times. His surrounding was still dark. Baekhyun closed his eyes and realized he was sweating. Nightmare...? He covered his eyes with the back of his hand and exhaled deeply through his nose. Baekhyun glanced over his shoulder at the alarm clock by the nightstand. 2:13 am. I should go back to sleep... He rolled over to the side, wanting to snuggle closer to Chanyeol-
-only to find that his husband wasn’t there.
Click.
Baekhyun blinked. “Chanyeol...?”
Click.
“Chan-“
“I’m right here, Baek.”
Baekhyun let out a dramatic sigh as he sat up and stared into the darkness. He knew Chanyeol was there. He also happened to know that it was Chanyeol’s bad habit when he had something on his mind. “What are you doing there...?”
Click.
“Taking pictures of you.”
“It’s time to sleep, Chanyeol, not time to take a picture. Besides, it’s dark. You’re not gonna be able to take a good picture.”
“But you’re so damn beautiful in your sleep. And clearly you’re underestimating my camera skills.”
“I didn’t... You need your sleep, too.”
“I can think clearly whenever I look at your adorable sleeping face.”
Click.
Baekhyun pressed his lips into a thin line and he crossed his arms on his chest. “What are you thinking about...?”
He could hear Chanyeol shifting on his seat but he didn’t get any reply.
“Chanyeol,” Baekhyun half whined. “Come here.”
“Just a moment.”
“Chanyeol, I’m cold. Come here now.”
Chanyeol chuckled in amusement as he finally pulled himself off of the loveseat and walked to their bed. He laid down beside Baekhyun and Chanyeol was a bit startled when Baekhyun searched for his lips despite the darkness. Even though it was dark, the way their lips met weren’t sloppy and the couple exchanged sweet, longing kisses.
“How long have you been up like this...?” Baekhyun murmured against his spouse’s lips.
Chanyeol was silent. “Quite a while.”
“Why didn’t you wake me up?”
“Because you’re such a heavy sleeper.”
Baekhyun pouted as he playfully placed a hand over Chanyeol’s eyes. “Shut up. Now sleep.”
Chanyeol snickered lightly and pretended to close his eyes. He tried going back to sleep, but he couldn’t. All this time, he managed to hide the fact well from Baekhyun that he was just as scared as him. If Baekhyun was scared of being found by his parents, then Chanyeol was scared if it ever happened because it would mean they would take him away.
He wouldn’t know what to do if Baekhyun was taken away from him.
Yifan was right.
He was lucky not to have Baekhyun’s parents sue him. He was lucky to be able to live together with Baekhyun for the past months. Baekhyun’s parents could accuse him of kidnapping and then it could end up in court. Although his family’s lawyer would put a hell of a fight too if that happened.
“Chanyeol.”
The said male rolled over to face Baekhyun. “Hm?”
“I saw some strangers downtown earlier today.”
“...and?”
“I’m not sure who they were. But they were searching for someone...”
Chanyeol stiffened. “Are you sure, Baek...?”
“They could be looking for someone else,” Baekhyun tried to assure Chanyeol, even though his voice showed that he too, wasn’t sure. “I’m-I’m scared...”
Chanyeol felt Baekhyun snuggled closer and the latter pressed his face against his chest. Chanyeol found himself gritting his teeth. “It’s alright. Yifan’s here. If he’s around, you-both of us will be safe.”
No one’s going to take you away from me.
“Chanyeol...?”
Can I think like that...?
“Yes.”
“Go to sleep, baby. I’ll never leave you...”
“Really...?”
It was never meant to be a doubt, but Chanyeol just couldn’t help it. The question just slipped out of his mouth automatically. Baekhyun pulled away from him and pressed his palm against Chanyeol’s chest.
“I trusted you, right? Now you need to trust me...”
Chanyeol slowly nodded and the male let Baekhyun caressing his cheeks. He shut his eyes when he felt the older male pressing his lips lightly, repeatedly on his cheeks. Damn. It’s comforting. Chanyeol instinctively curled his arms around Baekhyun’s waist. If on any other night it was Baekhyun who cuddled to him, for tonight, it was the other way around. The black haired male buried his face on Baekhyun’s neck, letting the latter stroke his hair. His hands must have contained magic because his insecurities were starting to disappear.
He felt peaceful.
Within minutes, Chanyeol fell asleep.
***
Baekhyun had never asked much about Chanyeol.
So when Chanyeol started talking the next morning, he listened intently.
It was the first time for Chanyeol to ever talk about his family. He talked about how his real father died and when he and his mother traveled to Beijing, they met Yifan’s father. It took quite a while for his mother to fall in love and accepted his step father’s proposal. Chanyeol didn’t really care because for him, no one could replace his biological father, but he knew his mother needed someone and so he agreed as long as it made her happy.
Park was his father’s family name-which explained why Yifan introduced himself as a Wu.
“A few years ago, Yifan’s-our father died,” Chanyeol reminisced and his eyes were getting distant as he recalled. “Everything was like a hurricane back then. Yifan was forced to take over the company and Umma wanted me to help him, but I didn’t want to. I could never picture myself as the type who would sit behind the desk. I’m more like a field person, you know...? I enjoy my freedom.”
Baekhyun smiled. Of course he knew.
“I felt really bad back then. I mean, Yifan carried the burden all by himself. Honestly, it must have been really hard for him to take orders from Umma-my mother, and not his biological one. He had to carry the expectation of a lot of people and he had to succeed in order to prevent bankruptcy. Yifan was just twenty one years old when it happened. He was mature enough, but not me. I was nineteen and I just wanted to leave for sure.”
Chanyeol grimaced.
“Yifan almost snapped when my mother told him he was getting married. He was too stressed by everything that the thought of marrying a stranger drove him insane.”
“So...so he didn’t like Junmyeon at first?”
“He-“ Chanyeol watched him unblinkingly. “Wait. You found out?”
Baekhyun bashfully nodded. “I overheard the other day... Junmyeon-hyung is your brother in law. Now I understand why you trust him so much. Enough about that, continue with the story. Go on.”
“...okay, well... All of his beliefs vanished instantly when he met Junmyeon. Yifan swallowed down all of his words-all the plans to scold and snap and everything were canceled the moment they met. Damn, I have never seen Yifan stuttering that bad before. But what can I say-Junmyeon-hyung really is beautiful. I guess that’s what people called love at first sight.”
Chanyeol grinned, but it faltered when Baekhyun stayed quiet. He swept Baekhyun’s bangs to a side.
“Do you hate me?”
“What?” Baekhyun looked up in surprise. “I-I don’t...”
“It would be better if you do,” Chanyeol lowered his head. “I mean, all of this happened because I wasn’t honest with you. We probably wouldn’t have to run away like this. And you wouldn’t have to live each day in fear of getting found.”
“I love you without your status,” Baekhyun whispered desperately. “Please don’t say that. I swear I regret nothing...”
“I know. But...we can’t keep on living like this...”
Baekhyun almost couldn’t bear what Chanyeol was thinking. He didn’t think he would be ready for whatever it was that Chanyeol was going to say. He leaned forward to hug his husband tightly. “Then...what do you want us to do...?”
Chanyeol didn’t answer.
He only embraced Baekhyun back in return.
***
Chanyeol was quiet for the next couple of days.
Something seemed to be on his mind and he wasn’t willing to share. Everytime Baekhyun touched his arm, silently wanting him to just say what was wrong, Chanyeol would always smile and pet his head gently. But he was still not talking.
But Baekhyun knew it had something to do with Yifan’s appearance. The older male had been dropping by a lot lately. Sometimes Junmyeon came along with him, but most of the times, he was alone. Chanyeol never said it out loud, but whenever Yifan came, Baekhyun would leave both of them to talk.
It’s probably important.
It’s probably a family matter.
It’s probably about us...
Yifan was one hell of a stubborn person. He uninvitedly showed up by their door one night with Junmyeon behind him. The latter smiled happily as he held up his hand, showing a bag of groceries.
Twenty minutes later, Baekhyun found himself preparing dinner in the kitchen with Junmyeon. The situation was awkward between them and really, after knowing that Junmyeon was his brother in law, he felt stupid for feeling jealous. Of course Chanyeol kept in touch with him. Of course Junmyeon was genuinely worried for Chanyeol.
“Would you pass me the ketchup?”
Baekhyun snapped out of his reverie and handed the mentioned item to the older male. Junmyeon uttered a soft thank you before concentrating on whatever it was that he cooked.
“Hyung?”
Junmyeon glanced at him. “Yes?”
“How long...have you been married to Yifan?”
“A few months after his father died,” Junmyeon answered after a moment of silence. “It’s our third anniversary this year.”
Baekhyun’s throat went dry. “...you seem happy.”
Junmyeon smiled. “That’s because I am.” He bit the inner part of his cheek and cleared his throat. “Yifan...told me that you ran away from home.”
“It’s not like that,” Baekhyun countered in uncertainty. It was like that.
“Well, do you still keep in touch with your parents...?”
Baekhyun chose not to answer and tried to drop the subject by washing his hands by the sink. Junmyeon realized this and he decided to not probe further.
“So...,” he started again. “Wu Baekhyun. It sounds really nice.”
“...I honestly thought it would be Park Baekhyun...”
“Oh. Um. It’s better than Wu Junmyeon?”
Baekhyun stared at Junmyeon and he got a sheepish grin in return. “...I never knew he had a Chinese father...”
“Step father,” Junmyeon corrected.
“Does he have a Chinese name?”
“Yeah. Canlie. Wu Canlie.”
“Can...” Baekhyun trailed off and an amused smile tugged on his lips. Junmyeon laughed beside him and suddenly, things were alright between them.
The dinner went okay.
Chanyeol didn’t talk much, and it was then that Baekhyun realized Yifan wasn’t that talkative either. Upon the first glance, people might think that he was very scary with his bushy eyebrows and a glare that could kill someone. But the image vanished when he was with Junmyeon. Junmyeon was the fire that could melt the ice of Yifan’s heart. Yifan’s gaze to Junmyeon was undescribable, like a mixture of grateful and caring and loving and somehow helpless without him. Like without Junmyeon, he would be lost and his life would be meaningless.
Baekhyun wished he could be that same person to Chanyeol, too.
He didn’t bother to take a shower that night after Yifan and Junmyeon went home. Baekhyun threw himself tiredly onto the bed and waited for Chanyeol to join him. He faintly heard the water running from the bathroom. Chanyeol’s taking a shower...? Should I join...? Baekhyun blushed at his thought and covered his face with his hands.
Baekhyun pretended to be asleep when he heard Chanyeol shuffled into the room. He waited until the other male was done changing into his pajamas. He waited until Chanyeol climbed onto the bed. He waited until his husband pressed his lips on the back of his neck-something that had become a habit. Chanyeol smelled fresh like soap and his entire body was cold. When Chanyeol gave him a backhug, Baekhun feigned a slight movement.
“Baek,” Chanyeol whispered.
Baekhyun tensed. Something was wrong.
“I need to go back to China to settle some things first.”
No.
“I want you to stay.”
Don’t leave me.
Baekhyun slowly looked over his shoulder and his eyes met Chanyeol’s. “Take me with you...”
Chanyeol shook his head. “I think you need to go home.”
It got Baekhyun to pull away from Chanyeol and he gave his husband a disbelief stare. “Wh-what...?”
“It’s been months, Baek. Don’t you miss your parents?”
“B-but-“
You’re the one who ask me to come with you.
“I’ll have Yifan’s driver escorted you home tomorrow. You should pack in the morning.”
“Chanyeol, I-“
“It’s just a few days until I get things sorted out-“
“But I don’t want to go home!” Baekhyun cried breathlessly.
“Baby,” Chanyeol sternly said and cupped Baekhyun’s cheeks. “I’ve been thinking for the past few days. What Yifan said was right. I’ve been running away for too long.” He sighed and trailed his fingers from Baekhyun’s cheeks to his jaw. “I’m sorry. If only I was brave enough to confront your parents about us.”
“I don’t care about that,” Baekhyun stifled a sob. “I just don’t want you to leave me...”
“I’m not,” Chanyeol whispered as he softly kissed his lips. “I won’t.”
***
Baekhyun had never felt so terrified before.
He didn’t think Chanyeol would let go, but he did.
Baekhyun wanted to scream that it wasn’t fair that Chanyeol didn’t bring him along, but what his husband said was right. They needed to face their fears. Chanyeol had been running away from home and he... If he wanted to leave, he should’ve just said so. Although it was easier to be said than done... Baekhyun didn’t think it would be that easy if he just went straight to his mother and tell her that he was head over heels for Chanyeol. Someone who she thought wouldn’t be good for him.
After a few hours of journey (Yifan had provided him a private jet and an expensive car, Baekhyun literally gaped at the fact), he finally made it back home. Yifan’s driver, a Chinese male named Zhoumi politely informed him that they had arrived and Baekhyun had a difficulty swallowing as he looked outside the window.
What if his mother rejected him...?
Then you’ll be able to go back to Chanyeol.
With wobbling feet, the male slowly got out of the expensive vehicle. As he made his way to the front door, he couldn’t help but think of the worst possibilities. His mother could’ve stopped looking for him and she didn’t give a damn anymore. They probably worked on removing Baekhyun from the family tree and planned to adopt another child.
It felt like the longest minutes of his life.
Baekhyun stood in front of the door, not knowing what to do. He twiddled his fingers nervously and just as he was about to ring the bell, the door swung open.
It was his mother.
Baekhyun froze. His mother would never let herself to do such thing. She would call the maids to open the door and then the guests would be brought to the living room.
“Baekhyun?”
What to do? What to say?
His mother looked like she was about to cry and she was already halfway to hug Baekhyun, but then she stopped. Her gaze went down to Baekhyun’s outfit and her expression changed. Baekhyun followed her glance and held his breath. He had left without bringing any clothes, so the ones he was clad in were Chanyeol’s. He must have looked awful because her expression morphed into a disgust.
“Did you run out of money?”
Her tone was cold.
“I’m-I’m sorry...?”
“Did that filth stop giving you money? Is that why you come home?”
It took Baekhyun a few seconds to register the true meaning behind the sarcastic remark and his eyes widened. His heart broke at the
accusation. Baekhyun’s lips were trembling, but it was different. If it was fear before, now it was anger building inside him. “Chanyeol-“
“Don’t you dare mention his name in this house,” she hissed through her gritted teeth. “Did you really think I couldn’t find you? Did you really think I wouldn’t find out about the small, cheap apartment you live in? I knew it. I just knew it wouldn’t last long. I knew eventually you would come back when he couldn’t give you a decent life anymore.”
“Stop,” Baekhyun pleaded helplessly.
“It was a mistake for you to leave to be with him.”
Baekhyun stared at his mother in disbelief. His mouth was slightly parted, but he was so overwhelmed by sadness that he didn’t know what to retort. Her words were cruel. She didn’t have the right to say so, she knew nothing about Chanyeol.
“Chanyeol,” he said with a quivering voice. “Is my life.”
She looked like she was about to counter his sentence, but Baekhyun didn’t let her.
“I never regretted being with him, Umma. And not for a single day, not even once in my life that I ever think it was a mistake. So don’t lash out on me because I am happy. I am happy to be with Chanyeol, the man that you would categorize as a filth. But you’re wrong, Umma, you’re wrong, because he’s not like what you think.”
Baekhyun shook his head.
“The only mistake I make is to come here. And I regret it.”
He didn’t care if his words sounded just as cruel because anger clearly had taken over. Baekhyun didn’t bother to wait for his mother’s reply, he was too tired to argue.
With that, the male spun around and left.
***
Baekhyun had a feeling he would be rejected, but he didn’t expect to hear such harsh words.
He felt broken, he felt hurt, but most of all, he felt helpless because Chanyeol wasn’t there.
The male tried to get ahold of Chanyeol, but his husband couldn’t be reached. Maybe he was still on his way to his hometown. How long had it been since they got separated? He had no idea. Baekhyun also didn’t have the slightest clue how many hours would it take from Korea to China.
He had been crying since the minute he clambered back into the car and Zhoumi didn’t even need to ask what happened. The Chinese male started driving in silence and before Baekhyun knew it, he took him to Chanyeol’s old apartment. Baekhyun’s jaw involuntarily dropped when he found out and stared at the much older male curiously. Zhoumi had spoke before he even got the chance to start.
“He told me to bring you here if you started crying.”
Baekhyun went blank. “He...?”
“Mr. Canlie.”
Baekhyun gasped mutely. Chanyeol...?
“The keys are in your bag.”
The male immediately searched in his bag and he batted his eyelashes when he found a pair of keys were placed underneath his wallet. All of a sudden, Baekhyun wanted to cry, because Chanyeol had probably prepared the item just in case everything went bad. He stifled a sob as he pressed a hand on his mouth.
Chanyeol, where are you...?
Baekhyun then was left at the apartment all by himself and Zhoumi drove away. He stepped into the place with a deep breath. Everything looked exactly like the last time they left. Even the lingering scent of lemon could still be smelled in the air. Baekhyun offhandedly threw his bag onto the couch and glanced around. His gaze drifted to the empty wall where Chanyeol said he planned to put something on it. He thought the owner of the apartment would have rented it to someone else, but perhaps it was Chanyeol’s own apartment from the start. And Chanyeol, like him, didn’t really like to flaunt.
He shuffled into the bedroom and aimed straight for the bed. Baekhyun dropped himself onto the bed with a thud and a loud sigh. The male buried his head on the pillow, clenching it tightly and slowly smiled to himself. It was where they made love for the very first time and Baekhyun shuddered, still remembering what he felt back then like it was yesterday.
Baekhyun choked.
He wanted to see Chanyeol.
Baekhyun wanted to see Chanyeol so bad that he dismissed it when someone shifted onto the bed in the middle of the night, causing it to gain more weight. He hummed sleepily when he felt his body was tugged closer into a pair of strong arms and a familiar chest.
“Chanyeol,” Baekhyun whispered.
“I’m here,” Chanyeol affectionately kissed his forehead. “I’m here...”
It was when Baekhyun woke up in the morning that he realized it wasn’t a dream. Chanyeol was sleeping soundly beside him and their hands were linked. Baekhyun’s eyes went teary at the fact that his husband was really there. He tightened his grip around Chanyeol and it caused the latter to stir awake.
A low grunt escaped Chanyeol’s lips as he gathered his soul back into life. His hand moved slightly as a sign that he was awake, but the taller male didn’t unlink their hands. “Morning.”
“Good morning,” Baekhyun replied softly and smiled. “Did you teleport...?”
Chanyeol broke into an impish smile, still with his eyes closed. “I did. Did you just find out that I have super power?” Even though he wasn’t able to see Baekhyun’s expression, he was certain that the other male rolled his eyes. “Just kidding. Did you get hurt...?”
Physically, no. Emotionally, yes.
Baekhyun shook his head. “I’m all right...”
“I should’ve come with you,” Chanyeol said quietly. “I’m sorry you had to face it all by yourself. I just-I was so selfish to let you go just like that. Dammit, I’m an ass.”
Baekhyun winced at the word. “At-at least you’re here now. It’s all I need...”
“I’m gonna do everything to fix it. We’re going back to your house today.”
Baekhyun deadpanned. “Wh-what?”
“I’m gonna meet your mother.”
“B-But-“
“Yifan’s at the hotel. He’ll probably pick us up in about an hour or so.”
“Chanyeol-“
Chanyeol’s stern gaze made him fall quiet. Baekhyun didn’t know if he still have the courage to face his family-moreover his mother, because his heart was still hurt from all her words. He just couldn’t with the fact that she said a few bad things about Chanyeol...
“Don’t be afraid,” Chanyeol leaned closer to meet their lips. “I’m with you, Baek.”
***
A few hours later, they were waiting in the living room of Baekhyun’s (huge) house.
Yifan had the nicest look of them all. He wore a shirt that was tucked neatly into his pants. Chanyeol’s brother was a definite epitome of perfection. Chanyeol’s shirt was also tucked neatly into his pants, but he had the sleeves rolled up the elbows and it gave a different image compared to Yifan. Baekhyun looked down to himself. While he was clad still in Chanyeol’s clothes.
The sound of high heels clanking on the floor made the three of them to look up and Baekhyun felt fear increased greatly within him. His mother seemed to be amazed with Yifan as the male stood up and bowed politely at her. She shifted her gaze to Chanyeol and her eyes flickered with an unreadable emotion.
“I believe you know why we’re here, Ma’am,” Yifan started politely.
His mother narrowed her eyes at Yifan before glancing back and forth between Chanyeol and her son. Baekhyun’s lips trembled slightly as he avoided his mother’s gaze.
“I don’t think I do,” she said after a while.
Yifan nodded. “We’re here because-“
“-I married your son.”
Chanyeol straightforwardly said. Baekhyun’s mother’s eyes went wide and Yifan rubbed his forehead in exasperation.
“Chanyeol-“
“Save the preamble, hyung,” Chanyeol snorted. “She doesn’t need all that courtesy. She’s-“ He stopped talking when he felt fingers skittering on his arm and turned to face Baekhyun. Baekhyun worriedly shook his head and Chanyeol suppressed the urge to growl. “Fine. I apologize.”
“I apologize for my brother’s behavior, Mrs. Byun,” Yifan added. “But he is right about the fact that he is married to Baekhyun.”
Baekhyun’s fingers tightened on Chanyeol’s sleeve as he saw the shock expression morphed into a mixture of chagrin and disgust. He felt sad, really, because it wasn’t the kind of face he expected from his mother, but there was nothing he could do.
“Is it true?”
She didn’t have her eyes on Baekhyun, but he knew it was for him.
“...yes,” Baekhyun whispered.
“Mrs. Byun,” Chanyeol started and she took a deep breath. Her eyes were anywhere but on them. “I realize the reason why you’re against my relationship with Baekhyun is because of my status. You think I’m not in the same level as you and your family. But that isn’t true.” He paused. “I’m just as rich as you are.”
“...Ryeowook did a research on you-“
“-and I bet he didn’t find anything about Park Chanyeol. Had he looked up for Wu Canlie, it would be different.”
The atmosphere in the room was suffocating and Baekhyun felt like running away as far as possible.
“That’s enough,” Yifan said firmly and Chanyeol sagged on the couch. “Mrs. Byun, the reason why we’re here is because we don’t want you to think that we do any harm to Baekhyun. He followed my brother on his own wish. No one forced him. He was willing to be with Chanyeol.”
“This past months,” she said quietly, but there was a warning laced underneath her tone. “I’ve been considering to not have him as part of the family anymore.”
Baekhyun choked.
“I see. You have every right to do that. But even if you have him removed,” Yifan said sternly. “He still has another family. He has us.” The Chinese male failed to see the emotion plastered on Baekhyun’s face when he said that because he was busy staring at Chanyeol. “I guess we’re done here.”
The oldest between them three stood up and bowed once again at Baekhyun’s mother. Chanyeol followed his movement and offered a hand to Baekhyun-which he accepted gladly. He threw one last longing look at his mother. He felt sorry-he was sorry. He was sorry for everything-for disappointing her, for not making her happy, for being an ungrateful son. But Chanyeol was his life and Baekhyun surely would choose him over his life.
“Wait.”
Baekhyun halted and waited patiently.
“Why didn’t you tell me all of this...?”
She sent him a guilty yet apologetic stare and Baekhyun felt sadness waved over his entire body. His breath became ragged and he opened his mouth to answer, but hesitated. Say something, Baekhyun. Tell her...
“I-I just found out myself,” he honestly answered. Which was true, he didn’t even know Chanyeol had family until a few days ago. His mother placed an arm on top of the other and sighed. It was then that Baekhyun knew there was still a chance. It might be small, but he wouldn’t know until he try. “...Umma?”
She lifted up her face to stare at him.
“I love Chanyeol,” Baekhyun blurted. “I love him so much...even without the status. Please, you-you have to understand... I really want to be with him. I don’t expect you to give us your blessings...but...I just need you to know that, Umma... I’m sorry...”
His mother stayed quiet for minutes. Yifan and Chanyeol stood up with their feet transfixed onto the carpeted floor, listening intently to the conversation. Baekhyun made no move to leave, but after a few moments, he forced himself to accept the rejection. Maybe it was for the best...
“Is it what you really want?”
Her eyes softened when she spoke.
“To be with him?”
Baekhyun’s heart had a sudden change of pace at the question. His throat became dry and he sucked in a deep breath. Baekhyun stared at his mother’s expression and he knew, he just knew that her soft smile was sincere. He stole a glance at his husband, and that was when he lost it.
“Yes.”
Baekhyun let the tears that he had been holding fell onto his cheeks.
“Yes, it’s all I ever want...”
End.
Few weeks had passed after that.
It wasn’t exactly a yes, but it wasn’t a no either. Slowly, but surely, his mother was starting to open up to his marriage. She was starting to invite them to dinner every once in a while and she was also starting to have casual talk with Chanyeol. They decided to just move in to the old apartment and Baekhyun couldn’t be happier, knowing that he wouldn’t lose his families.
Chanyeol went back to Baekhyun after a few days in China with a good news. He decided to open a photo studio-it took a lot of effort to convince his mother, but overall it was good. She also sent her regards to Baekhyun and Chanyeol repeated her words of ‘wanting to meet him very soon.’ His husband also allowed him to go back to the university and Baekhyun was glad because he was able to continue his degree.
Baekhyun woke up to a very tired Chanyeol beside him. The male had been staying up late last night for work and he was sure Chanyeol just went to sleep in the morning. Baekhyun kissed the taller male’s cheek caringly before sliding off of the bed, craving for a cup of coffee. He tightened his robe and walked through the living room. Baekhyun absentmindedly glanced at the empty wall. That part of the room stood out because nothing was put on it, not even a picture, a clock or a painting. But this morning, it did. Baekhyun snapped his head back to the wall and he drew in a deep breath.
There were pictures.
Pictures of him, to be exact.
It was like a shrine of Baekhyun.
His pictures were everywhere. Some of them were candid, some others were taken on purpose. There was a picture of Baekhyun glancing over his shoulder, a picture of him being shirtless in the field, a picture of his first smile to Chanyeol in the restaurant, doing his best to look good because at that moment, he wanted Chanyeol to win the competition (which later turned out that there wasn’t any competition at all).
Some of Chanyeol’s pictures were glued underneath him. His husband’s selcas brought a smile to his face because Chanyeol was good at taking pictures, but maybe he needed help with his own selcas. Baekhyun chuckled whole heartedly at Chanyeol’s pose with a pair of nerdy glasses (and dammit his husband was hot with it) and fingers forming a peace sign.
Their kissing picture was in placed in the middle.
Baekhyun had no idea when or how Chanyeol took it, but he was closing his eyes in the picture and he looked so content. Chanyeol had his back on the camera, only a glimpse of his shoulder was caught in the picture. Baekhyun trailed his fingers longingly on the picture. He looked so happy.
He was happy.
Baekhyun took a few steps back to observe more of Chanyeol’s masterpieces (the male definitely had stayed up late for arranging those) and that was when he realized there were words adorned between the pictures. He squinted his eyes to get a good look.
The words were arranged neatly into sentences.
When you’re in a relationship and it’s good
Even if nothing else in your life is right
You feel like your whole world is complete
Love me forever, Byun Baekhyun
Baekhyun cried.
Last quote by Keith Sweat.
Anyone wants a KrisHo side story ;;;;;;;;;;;
[All It Ever Was]