Whole Lotta Glam (Sugar, Sweat, Spice.) → for haoxihuanni (4/4)
← previous
Avoiding Minseok isn’t actually easier the second time around, mainly because of how persistent the other is. He calls and texts frequently, even showing up to Kris’ apartment (and he hides in the shower instead of answering the door like a responsible adult). The calls stop after Kris misses two burlesque classes in a row and he knows he should be relieved but he mostly feels kind of sad.
“You’re a mess.” Luhan states bluntly, mouth full of bulgogi and Sue Hoe tsks at his side, reaching over to wipe off some stray crumbs with a manicured finger. Luhan coos at him and Kris wants nothing more than to chuck his soup at them. He slurps it up irritably.
“Why? You told me not to get over-involved. So I’m just under-involving myself.”
Luhan shakes his head. “I meant don’t get too hung up on the idea of having a relationship with him. Nothing about severing a friendship that has been more beneficial for you then for him by the looks of it. And you’re wasting all the effort you’ve put into burlesque these past two months and for what? Because you’re a childish idiot.”
Kris pokes at his food and says nothing, mainly because he knows Luhan has a point.
He’s not planning on going back to the studio anytime soon but he gets a call from the receptionist, telling him he apparently left some belonging behind and can he please go pick them up. He agrees, mainly because there’s no burlesque class today and he can avoid seeing Minseok and Kai.
The building is dark when he pulls up in the parking lot and the reception desk is empty. He frowns and is about to leave when he sees one of the room has the light on. He makes his way down the hall, stepping inside.
The first thing he sees is the two long ropes of red fabric, suspended from the ceiling by a pair of sturdy, metal rings. In between them, suspended in mid-air is Minseok, one hand gripping one rope while the other is wrapped around his waist, giving him leverage to hold himself up. Kris watches, slightly breathless as Minseok goes through a routine, set in time to the soft music filtering from built-in speakers in the wall. He’s different from his Minx persona, softer and ephemeral in his movements, grace and strength in every slow movement and it somehow makes him even more captivating. Kris sucks in a breath sharply when Minseok drops, catching himself sharply with the silks before slowly dropping down. He’s not sure what to do, whether to applaud or run from the room so he stands frozen in his spot.
Minseok moves to wipe his hands on a cloth, not looking in his direction but Kris knows the other is aware of his presence. He starts when Minseok speaks, tone cold. “So, I have to lie to get you out here now?”
He takes a deep breath setting his bag down. “It’s not like that?”
“Then what is it?” Minseok snaps, turning around and Kris wants to flinch back at the look on Minseok’s face and god, he’s only seen Minseok properly angry a few times in his life and now is one of them. There’s anger laced in Minseok’s words as he walks over to him. “I’m getting really fucking sick of this hot and cold act you keep pulling, Yifan. One minute everything's fine, we’re talking the next minute you’re avoiding me and basically making me go insane trying to figure out what the fuck I did wrong.” Minseok stops in front of him, face tipped upwards. “If you have a problem with me, just tell me now. I don’t wanna waste my time otherwise.”
Kris isn’t sure what propels him but he hears Minseok let out a startled squeak as he pulls him closer, hands circling his waist and presses their lips together. It’s not soft or chaste or anything like Kris thought kissing Minseok would be like, instead he’s pouring every bit of anger and jealousy he’s felt into it, the hot press of their lips sliding together as Minseok stands still underneath him.
But not for long. He barely registers when Minseok starts kissing him back, arms coming to wrap around his neck pulling him down closer as the other man returns the kiss with an equal amount of fervor, leaving small nipping bites on his bottom lips before laving over them with his tongue and soothing the skin. Kris opens his mouth, grants Minseok access and the other takes, nails digging into his skin as he thoroughly acquaints himself with his mouth. He backs them up until Minseok is pressed between him and the wall, the other pulling away to gasp into his neck before chasing his lisp again. Kris hooks his hands under Minseok’s thighs, kneading the soft flesh before lifting him up and the other rewards him by wrapping his legs around his waist, pulling him even closer until he’s not sure where he begins and Minseok ends. He’s not sure how long they stay like that, kissing and teasing, Minseok’s hands sliding up under his shirt, the slow circles of his hips against Kris’, making blood rush faster and everything a bit hotter. They pull away from each other when they hear a loud noise from outside, the sound of their breathing amplified in the stillness of the room.
It breaks the spell and Kris lets Minseok down, backing away from the wall frantically. “I can’t believe- I didn’t mean- oh my god, I’m so sorry.”
He turns tail and runs from the room, ignoring the calls of his name behind him. He’s trembling as he gets in the car, fingers shaking on the wheels as he pulls away because he knows that this time, he’s fucked up bad.
***
He’s perfectly content to hide in his apartment for the rest of his life, consumed by the thought of Minseok’s skin against his own but real life and work beckon. He’s a nervous wreck all week, to the point where on Friday, Yixing sends him home early, threatening to hog tie him and carry him back himself if he doesn’t comply. He’s more than happy to go along with this course of action, thinking a nice bubble bath is in order.
Except when he unlocks his apartment door, he’s greeted by the sight of Luhan, Kyungsoo, Tao and Sue Hoe seated around his dinner table, primly sipping tea. Four heads snap up in unison when he enters and he locks eyes with Kyungsoo who gives him a small smile, putting down his tea cup. “Get him.”
Before he can react, Tao has him in a firm grip, a soft whisper of “This is for your own good, Big K,” in his ear before he’s being manhandled into his bedroom. He’s pushed down on the bed and the other three surround him.
“A little birdie told us,” Kyungsoo says conversationally. “That you were planning on skipping out on tonight's showcase.”
Kris squints at Luhan who shrugs casually, elbow propped on Tao’s shoulder. “They coerced me.” He says unconvincingly.
Kris sighs. “Look guys, I’m really touched that you guys came all the way here and took the time to assault me but I’m not going. I have my reasons.”
“You mean your big, fat crush on Minseok hyung?” Tao says. “We know all about that.”
Kris openly glares at Luhan now. “Why don’t you tell them my social security number while you’re at it.”
“Enough chit-chat,” Sue Hoe interjects. “We need to move if we’re going to get him ready. The showcase is in an hour.”
“Wait, what?” Kris says as Tao starts pushing him towards the bathroom. “You’re not going to force me to perform!”
“Kris, just trust us.” Kyungsoo says before the door shuts and he finds himself face to face with Sue Hoe who’s wielding a mascara wound with a menacing expression.
***
Three hours later, Kris is bundled into the car alongside Kyungsoo and Tao, wearing a boatload of makeup and enough leather to re-hide a cow, fans stored in the trunk. Tao adjusts the ear clips in his hair, checking his eyeliner in the mirror. “How do I look?”
“Amazing, now stop touching your face, you’ll mess up my work.” Sue Hoe scolds, now in a tight silver dress and a purple wig. Luhan seems to enjoy the new look, if the way his hand is creeping up Sue Hoe’s leg is any indication.
The parking lot outside the studio is crowded with cars, people heading to the auditorium and Kris feels ill when he realises he’s going to be performing in front of all of them. He dry heaves into a paper bag as he follows the others inside, Sue Hoe and Luhan splitting up from them to go find seats.
Backstage is a loud thrum of noise and nervous anticipation, students milling about and chatting in small groups, some practising in quiet corners. Kai raises an eyebrow when he sees Kris. “I was convinced you weren’t going to show.”
“He had a bout of flu but he’s better now.” Tao assures him. Kai nods and writes down something on a clipboard. “Kris, you’re performing eighth. Give your music to the sound guy.”
The show begins promptly at seven and Kris can hear Minseok, the event’s MC, from backstage as he warms up the crowd. The show opens with Taehyung (V-Nasty) doing a routine involving creative use of hula hoops and then the performances gets rolling. Kai calls him over when Ho-Ya goes on stage. “Get ready, you’re on deck.”
He’s about ready to pee himself by the time Ho-ya’s music filters away and he’s ushered to the front of the stage, fans placed on the floor in front of him as he stands in his opening pose. The spotlight feels hot on his skin as he hears Minseok announce him. “Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for Yifan-teasy!”
He hears the opening strains of his music and begins the moves on autopilot, thankful that he’d practised the routine so many times the past week. He peels his elbow length gloves off slowly, nearly dropping them when he sees Chanyeol sitting in the front row. He chucks them to the side, keeping up with the playful mannerism that are the intro of his routine, trying not to forget to smile. He bends over slowly, fumbling with the opening clasp of his corset-like top, spinning and peeling it off slowly, till he’s standing on stage in just his shorts, boots and a tight black crop top. He hears the cheers from the audience and it’s like a switch flips inside him. Fuck it, he’s come this far, so he might as well slay. Show Chanyeol and Minseok and all the rest of them how it’s done.
He picks up the fans next using them to cover his body, doing the spins and tricks, extending his leg and blowing a playful kiss to a random man in the front row. The trickiest part is when he stands facing the audience, with the fans in front of him, using them as a shield as he shimmies out of his top and spins it around in one hand, before throwing it to the side. He holds the fans over his chest teasingly, for a few more seconds before pulling them away and back quickly, long enough to reveal the sparkly black tassels on his nipples (Tao’s idea). He laughs, revelling in the cheers of the ground, finishing his routine with a flourish as he strikes his ending pose. The stage goes dark and he moves quickly, scooping his clothes up off the floor as he goes.
Kai gives him a wide grin and a thumbs up as he ushers the next student onstage.
His high doesn’t wear off for the rest of the show as he watches and cheers on Tao from backstage as the other gyrates on stage in just a thong and cat ears, as Kyungsoo gets a standing ovation for his awe-inspiring stripping routine which ends with him pouring champagne over himself. Minseok calls them all out at the end to take a group bow and he can’t stop smiling the entire time.
He gets accosted as soon as he gets off the stage by Luhan and Sue Hoe who squeal about how good he was, acting like parents at an elementary school recital. They move away when Chanyeol walks up to Kris, offering him a shy smile. “Hi.”
“Hey.” Kris smiles uncertainly, as Chanyeol fidgets in front of him. The taller man produces a small bouquet which he hands over to a surprised Kris. “In honour of your debut.”
“Thank you.” Kris smiles at him. “How’d you even know I was performing?”
“Luhan sent me tickets.” And really why did Kris even bother asking. Chanyeol pats him on the shoulder a little awkwardly. “You were amazing up there, I almost couldn’t believe it was you.”
“It wasn’t, it was Yifan-teasy.” They both laugh and Kris scans over Chanyeol’s shoulder. “Are you here with someone?”
“Baekhyun, my boyfriend. He went off to look at pamphlets or something. I’d love to introduce you.” It’s said with trepidation, as if Chanyeol expects him to lash out, and it saddens Kris. Chanyeol’s making an effort and maybe it’s about time he did the same.
“I’d like that. But maybe when I’m less..." Kris indicates his get-up. “Provocative.”
He feels a small hand wrap around his wrist and Minseok shows up at his side. “Sorry, I just have to borrow Kris for a little bit.”
“No problem. I’ll call you to set up lunch or something.” Chanyeol waves and Kris feels himself being dragged, away from the auditorium. Minseok pulls him into an empty dance room, locking the door behind him. He pulls Kris closer, hands tight around his wrists. “Do you like me, Kris?”
He wasn’t expecting that. “Um, I- I mean- yes I do but I can’t.,” He sputters out.
“Can’t?” Minseok frowns. “Why not?”
“You’re engaged to Jongdae.”
There’s a beat of silence before Minseok bursts in laughter, letting go off him. “Engaged? Where did you get that idea?”
“You two- he took you to the hotel to ask you something and he bought you the expensive ring and-stop laughing at me!” Kris whacks him on the head with his bouquet irritably.
Minseok snatches the bouquet, tossing it to the side, still smiling widely. “Kris, Jongdae took me to the hotel to break up with me.”
Kris practically hears the sound of screeching tires as his thoughts comes to a screeching halt. “What?”
“Jongdae and I, we haven’t been close for a while, what with his business engagements and my work. We’ve been more like friends than partners for a long time. This break-up was bound to happen but Jongdae didn’t want there to be any bitterness and he likes doing things formally. Hence the dinner. As for the expensive gift.” Minseok pulls back his shirt cuff, revealing a shiny Rolex.
Kris sags down on the bench, looking up at Minseok. “So, you and Jongdae...?”
“Are done. And, now I'll ask you again.” Minseok places a hand on either side of his head leaning down. “Do you like me?”
Kris laughs. “God Min, I’ve been in love with you since the ninth grade."
Kris has always believed the people you love leave an impression on you. Chanyeol, Amber, Henry, Minseok, he’d given all of them his heart and all had pressed close to him, leaving behind their imprints on his being, shaping him as he’d grown and learnt. He’d always thought that would be all he’d have left of Minseok, of his first love, just memories, a tattoo on his soul that would remain the biggest “what-if?” of his life. But fate, god, or someone had given him a second chance and even though it had taken a small squadron of people to get him to this point, he’s finally here. The kiss this time is soft, a sweet brush of lips and it tastes like promises fulfilled.
***
"Yifan.” Mansek says, poking him in the cheek as they sit on the swings, side-by-side in the small playground. It’s nighttime and in an hour Mansek’s parents are going to drive Yifan and his mother to the airport. He’s got a nervous thrum in his chest as he imagines getting on a plane, to a place he’s only seen in pictures before, leaving being everything that’s familiar to him.
He turns to look at Mansek, squinting to make him out in the dim light. “Yeah?”
Mansek’s hand finds his on the swing chain, peeling it off and linking their fingers together and Yifan feels his pulse pick up. “Do you think,” Mansek says, voice quiet, “we’ll still be friends even after you’re gone?”
So many things play through his mind as he looks in Mansek’s eyes, the practical difficulties of maintaining a friendship across continents, how he and Mansek have grown to be so different, how he looks at his best friend sometimes and imagine what it would be like to kiss him, feelings he still hasn’t come to terms with himself. But what he thinks of most as he looks at Mansek is how damn lucky he is to have him.
So he squeezes his hand, giving the other a small smile. “Always. You’re never getting rid of me that easily.”
And maybe it’s youthful naivety but when he sees the smile he gets in return, when he’s pulled into a hug, face buried in the soft skin of Mansek’s neck, he believes it himself.
***
Author’s note: IT'S DONE, IT'S FINALLY DONE.
So much thanks to Whit, Wien and especially Lolo who went above and beyond the call of duty as a beta, and kept me from sending this fic to the recycle bin multiple times.
To my recipient, this is probably not at all what you imagined you'd get but I hope you like it. Thank you for your wonderful prompts.
Thank you to Minseokful mods for the double extensions, I am so sorry for the trouble I caused you.
I did my best to represent the burlesque world properly and I apologize if I got anything wrong. For the curious, this is what I based Kris' routine on.
Avoiding Minseok isn’t actually easier the second time around, mainly because of how persistent the other is. He calls and texts frequently, even showing up to Kris’ apartment (and he hides in the shower instead of answering the door like a responsible adult). The calls stop after Kris misses two burlesque classes in a row and he knows he should be relieved but he mostly feels kind of sad.
“You’re a mess.” Luhan states bluntly, mouth full of bulgogi and Sue Hoe tsks at his side, reaching over to wipe off some stray crumbs with a manicured finger. Luhan coos at him and Kris wants nothing more than to chuck his soup at them. He slurps it up irritably.
“Why? You told me not to get over-involved. So I’m just under-involving myself.”
Luhan shakes his head. “I meant don’t get too hung up on the idea of having a relationship with him. Nothing about severing a friendship that has been more beneficial for you then for him by the looks of it. And you’re wasting all the effort you’ve put into burlesque these past two months and for what? Because you’re a childish idiot.”
Kris pokes at his food and says nothing, mainly because he knows Luhan has a point.
He’s not planning on going back to the studio anytime soon but he gets a call from the receptionist, telling him he apparently left some belonging behind and can he please go pick them up. He agrees, mainly because there’s no burlesque class today and he can avoid seeing Minseok and Kai.
The building is dark when he pulls up in the parking lot and the reception desk is empty. He frowns and is about to leave when he sees one of the room has the light on. He makes his way down the hall, stepping inside.
The first thing he sees is the two long ropes of red fabric, suspended from the ceiling by a pair of sturdy, metal rings. In between them, suspended in mid-air is Minseok, one hand gripping one rope while the other is wrapped around his waist, giving him leverage to hold himself up. Kris watches, slightly breathless as Minseok goes through a routine, set in time to the soft music filtering from built-in speakers in the wall. He’s different from his Minx persona, softer and ephemeral in his movements, grace and strength in every slow movement and it somehow makes him even more captivating. Kris sucks in a breath sharply when Minseok drops, catching himself sharply with the silks before slowly dropping down. He’s not sure what to do, whether to applaud or run from the room so he stands frozen in his spot.
Minseok moves to wipe his hands on a cloth, not looking in his direction but Kris knows the other is aware of his presence. He starts when Minseok speaks, tone cold. “So, I have to lie to get you out here now?”
He takes a deep breath setting his bag down. “It’s not like that?”
“Then what is it?” Minseok snaps, turning around and Kris wants to flinch back at the look on Minseok’s face and god, he’s only seen Minseok properly angry a few times in his life and now is one of them. There’s anger laced in Minseok’s words as he walks over to him. “I’m getting really fucking sick of this hot and cold act you keep pulling, Yifan. One minute everything's fine, we’re talking the next minute you’re avoiding me and basically making me go insane trying to figure out what the fuck I did wrong.” Minseok stops in front of him, face tipped upwards. “If you have a problem with me, just tell me now. I don’t wanna waste my time otherwise.”
Kris isn’t sure what propels him but he hears Minseok let out a startled squeak as he pulls him closer, hands circling his waist and presses their lips together. It’s not soft or chaste or anything like Kris thought kissing Minseok would be like, instead he’s pouring every bit of anger and jealousy he’s felt into it, the hot press of their lips sliding together as Minseok stands still underneath him.
But not for long. He barely registers when Minseok starts kissing him back, arms coming to wrap around his neck pulling him down closer as the other man returns the kiss with an equal amount of fervor, leaving small nipping bites on his bottom lips before laving over them with his tongue and soothing the skin. Kris opens his mouth, grants Minseok access and the other takes, nails digging into his skin as he thoroughly acquaints himself with his mouth. He backs them up until Minseok is pressed between him and the wall, the other pulling away to gasp into his neck before chasing his lisp again. Kris hooks his hands under Minseok’s thighs, kneading the soft flesh before lifting him up and the other rewards him by wrapping his legs around his waist, pulling him even closer until he’s not sure where he begins and Minseok ends. He’s not sure how long they stay like that, kissing and teasing, Minseok’s hands sliding up under his shirt, the slow circles of his hips against Kris’, making blood rush faster and everything a bit hotter. They pull away from each other when they hear a loud noise from outside, the sound of their breathing amplified in the stillness of the room.
It breaks the spell and Kris lets Minseok down, backing away from the wall frantically. “I can’t believe- I didn’t mean- oh my god, I’m so sorry.”
He turns tail and runs from the room, ignoring the calls of his name behind him. He’s trembling as he gets in the car, fingers shaking on the wheels as he pulls away because he knows that this time, he’s fucked up bad.
***
He’s perfectly content to hide in his apartment for the rest of his life, consumed by the thought of Minseok’s skin against his own but real life and work beckon. He’s a nervous wreck all week, to the point where on Friday, Yixing sends him home early, threatening to hog tie him and carry him back himself if he doesn’t comply. He’s more than happy to go along with this course of action, thinking a nice bubble bath is in order.
Except when he unlocks his apartment door, he’s greeted by the sight of Luhan, Kyungsoo, Tao and Sue Hoe seated around his dinner table, primly sipping tea. Four heads snap up in unison when he enters and he locks eyes with Kyungsoo who gives him a small smile, putting down his tea cup. “Get him.”
Before he can react, Tao has him in a firm grip, a soft whisper of “This is for your own good, Big K,” in his ear before he’s being manhandled into his bedroom. He’s pushed down on the bed and the other three surround him.
“A little birdie told us,” Kyungsoo says conversationally. “That you were planning on skipping out on tonight's showcase.”
Kris squints at Luhan who shrugs casually, elbow propped on Tao’s shoulder. “They coerced me.” He says unconvincingly.
Kris sighs. “Look guys, I’m really touched that you guys came all the way here and took the time to assault me but I’m not going. I have my reasons.”
“You mean your big, fat crush on Minseok hyung?” Tao says. “We know all about that.”
Kris openly glares at Luhan now. “Why don’t you tell them my social security number while you’re at it.”
“Enough chit-chat,” Sue Hoe interjects. “We need to move if we’re going to get him ready. The showcase is in an hour.”
“Wait, what?” Kris says as Tao starts pushing him towards the bathroom. “You’re not going to force me to perform!”
“Kris, just trust us.” Kyungsoo says before the door shuts and he finds himself face to face with Sue Hoe who’s wielding a mascara wound with a menacing expression.
***
Three hours later, Kris is bundled into the car alongside Kyungsoo and Tao, wearing a boatload of makeup and enough leather to re-hide a cow, fans stored in the trunk. Tao adjusts the ear clips in his hair, checking his eyeliner in the mirror. “How do I look?”
“Amazing, now stop touching your face, you’ll mess up my work.” Sue Hoe scolds, now in a tight silver dress and a purple wig. Luhan seems to enjoy the new look, if the way his hand is creeping up Sue Hoe’s leg is any indication.
The parking lot outside the studio is crowded with cars, people heading to the auditorium and Kris feels ill when he realises he’s going to be performing in front of all of them. He dry heaves into a paper bag as he follows the others inside, Sue Hoe and Luhan splitting up from them to go find seats.
Backstage is a loud thrum of noise and nervous anticipation, students milling about and chatting in small groups, some practising in quiet corners. Kai raises an eyebrow when he sees Kris. “I was convinced you weren’t going to show.”
“He had a bout of flu but he’s better now.” Tao assures him. Kai nods and writes down something on a clipboard. “Kris, you’re performing eighth. Give your music to the sound guy.”
The show begins promptly at seven and Kris can hear Minseok, the event’s MC, from backstage as he warms up the crowd. The show opens with Taehyung (V-Nasty) doing a routine involving creative use of hula hoops and then the performances gets rolling. Kai calls him over when Ho-Ya goes on stage. “Get ready, you’re on deck.”
He’s about ready to pee himself by the time Ho-ya’s music filters away and he’s ushered to the front of the stage, fans placed on the floor in front of him as he stands in his opening pose. The spotlight feels hot on his skin as he hears Minseok announce him. “Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for Yifan-teasy!”
He hears the opening strains of his music and begins the moves on autopilot, thankful that he’d practised the routine so many times the past week. He peels his elbow length gloves off slowly, nearly dropping them when he sees Chanyeol sitting in the front row. He chucks them to the side, keeping up with the playful mannerism that are the intro of his routine, trying not to forget to smile. He bends over slowly, fumbling with the opening clasp of his corset-like top, spinning and peeling it off slowly, till he’s standing on stage in just his shorts, boots and a tight black crop top. He hears the cheers from the audience and it’s like a switch flips inside him. Fuck it, he’s come this far, so he might as well slay. Show Chanyeol and Minseok and all the rest of them how it’s done.
He picks up the fans next using them to cover his body, doing the spins and tricks, extending his leg and blowing a playful kiss to a random man in the front row. The trickiest part is when he stands facing the audience, with the fans in front of him, using them as a shield as he shimmies out of his top and spins it around in one hand, before throwing it to the side. He holds the fans over his chest teasingly, for a few more seconds before pulling them away and back quickly, long enough to reveal the sparkly black tassels on his nipples (Tao’s idea). He laughs, revelling in the cheers of the ground, finishing his routine with a flourish as he strikes his ending pose. The stage goes dark and he moves quickly, scooping his clothes up off the floor as he goes.
Kai gives him a wide grin and a thumbs up as he ushers the next student onstage.
His high doesn’t wear off for the rest of the show as he watches and cheers on Tao from backstage as the other gyrates on stage in just a thong and cat ears, as Kyungsoo gets a standing ovation for his awe-inspiring stripping routine which ends with him pouring champagne over himself. Minseok calls them all out at the end to take a group bow and he can’t stop smiling the entire time.
He gets accosted as soon as he gets off the stage by Luhan and Sue Hoe who squeal about how good he was, acting like parents at an elementary school recital. They move away when Chanyeol walks up to Kris, offering him a shy smile. “Hi.”
“Hey.” Kris smiles uncertainly, as Chanyeol fidgets in front of him. The taller man produces a small bouquet which he hands over to a surprised Kris. “In honour of your debut.”
“Thank you.” Kris smiles at him. “How’d you even know I was performing?”
“Luhan sent me tickets.” And really why did Kris even bother asking. Chanyeol pats him on the shoulder a little awkwardly. “You were amazing up there, I almost couldn’t believe it was you.”
“It wasn’t, it was Yifan-teasy.” They both laugh and Kris scans over Chanyeol’s shoulder. “Are you here with someone?”
“Baekhyun, my boyfriend. He went off to look at pamphlets or something. I’d love to introduce you.” It’s said with trepidation, as if Chanyeol expects him to lash out, and it saddens Kris. Chanyeol’s making an effort and maybe it’s about time he did the same.
“I’d like that. But maybe when I’m less..." Kris indicates his get-up. “Provocative.”
He feels a small hand wrap around his wrist and Minseok shows up at his side. “Sorry, I just have to borrow Kris for a little bit.”
“No problem. I’ll call you to set up lunch or something.” Chanyeol waves and Kris feels himself being dragged, away from the auditorium. Minseok pulls him into an empty dance room, locking the door behind him. He pulls Kris closer, hands tight around his wrists. “Do you like me, Kris?”
He wasn’t expecting that. “Um, I- I mean- yes I do but I can’t.,” He sputters out.
“Can’t?” Minseok frowns. “Why not?”
“You’re engaged to Jongdae.”
There’s a beat of silence before Minseok bursts in laughter, letting go off him. “Engaged? Where did you get that idea?”
“You two- he took you to the hotel to ask you something and he bought you the expensive ring and-stop laughing at me!” Kris whacks him on the head with his bouquet irritably.
Minseok snatches the bouquet, tossing it to the side, still smiling widely. “Kris, Jongdae took me to the hotel to break up with me.”
Kris practically hears the sound of screeching tires as his thoughts comes to a screeching halt. “What?”
“Jongdae and I, we haven’t been close for a while, what with his business engagements and my work. We’ve been more like friends than partners for a long time. This break-up was bound to happen but Jongdae didn’t want there to be any bitterness and he likes doing things formally. Hence the dinner. As for the expensive gift.” Minseok pulls back his shirt cuff, revealing a shiny Rolex.
Kris sags down on the bench, looking up at Minseok. “So, you and Jongdae...?”
“Are done. And, now I'll ask you again.” Minseok places a hand on either side of his head leaning down. “Do you like me?”
Kris laughs. “God Min, I’ve been in love with you since the ninth grade."
Kris has always believed the people you love leave an impression on you. Chanyeol, Amber, Henry, Minseok, he’d given all of them his heart and all had pressed close to him, leaving behind their imprints on his being, shaping him as he’d grown and learnt. He’d always thought that would be all he’d have left of Minseok, of his first love, just memories, a tattoo on his soul that would remain the biggest “what-if?” of his life. But fate, god, or someone had given him a second chance and even though it had taken a small squadron of people to get him to this point, he’s finally here. The kiss this time is soft, a sweet brush of lips and it tastes like promises fulfilled.
***
"Yifan.” Mansek says, poking him in the cheek as they sit on the swings, side-by-side in the small playground. It’s nighttime and in an hour Mansek’s parents are going to drive Yifan and his mother to the airport. He’s got a nervous thrum in his chest as he imagines getting on a plane, to a place he’s only seen in pictures before, leaving being everything that’s familiar to him.
He turns to look at Mansek, squinting to make him out in the dim light. “Yeah?”
Mansek’s hand finds his on the swing chain, peeling it off and linking their fingers together and Yifan feels his pulse pick up. “Do you think,” Mansek says, voice quiet, “we’ll still be friends even after you’re gone?”
So many things play through his mind as he looks in Mansek’s eyes, the practical difficulties of maintaining a friendship across continents, how he and Mansek have grown to be so different, how he looks at his best friend sometimes and imagine what it would be like to kiss him, feelings he still hasn’t come to terms with himself. But what he thinks of most as he looks at Mansek is how damn lucky he is to have him.
So he squeezes his hand, giving the other a small smile. “Always. You’re never getting rid of me that easily.”
And maybe it’s youthful naivety but when he sees the smile he gets in return, when he’s pulled into a hug, face buried in the soft skin of Mansek’s neck, he believes it himself.
***
Author’s note: IT'S DONE, IT'S FINALLY DONE.
So much thanks to Whit, Wien and especially Lolo who went above and beyond the call of duty as a beta, and kept me from sending this fic to the recycle bin multiple times.
To my recipient, this is probably not at all what you imagined you'd get but I hope you like it. Thank you for your wonderful prompts.
Thank you to Minseokful mods for the double extensions, I am so sorry for the trouble I caused you.
I did my best to represent the burlesque world properly and I apologize if I got anything wrong. For the curious, this is what I based Kris' routine on.