Realize - yunjae, yoosu - 04/xx
Title: Realize
Chapter(s): 04/xx
Author: sentimentalenvy
Genre: romance
Rating: PG-13 - R
Warning(s): language (for now)
Pairing/Characters: Yunjae, Yoosu and Minfood
Disclaimer: I do not own them.
Synopsis: Three best friends struggle to make the best of what they have in their lives meets. They meet two best friends whom have yet to learn the values of real feelings and hardships. Both parties fight for the chance to live a simple life. However, they will find that life is anything but simple.
Comment(s): Has this story been forgotten o: ?
4
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It was impossible…
Just when he thought things were going smoothly, this, why did this have to happen? Jaejoong sat at the kitchen table, staring aimlessly at the basket of fruit set in the middle of the table. All the nights were shut off, except for the one light settled in the middle of the kitchen ceiling. The only thing that was running through his mind was the safety of his brothers.
This afternoon, the manager and the landlord had come up to him with faces of regret. Almost immediately, he knew they were here to deliver bad news. Their manager and landlord were switched to manage another property. The new manager didn’t fancy the idea of having their stand, and to make things worse, he claimed that the rent the old manager set was too low. Jaejoong sighed, running his fingers through his hair deep in thought. He was going to have to look for an actual job but he didn’t want to because he wouldn’t be able to stay with Changmin and Junsu. He couldn’t imagine the thought of coming home late and not spending as much time with his brothers. He decided that he was going to find work right away. In the meantime, he might as well use the money they had saved up for their business.
In terms of financial issues with school, Changmin’s scholarship was good for a year, but then again, Junsu and he were already on the loan. Maybe things would be better if Changmin and Junsu were to go back and live with their parents. After all, they had no trouble paying the bills, especially for 2 more people. But…he wanted to live with his two brothers like this. He enjoyed being with them. He wanted to be the one to take care of them. What was he going to do? With the ridiculous rent raise, the money he had saved up wouldn’t be enough to last forever.
“Hyung…”
Jaejoong lifted his head up, slightly startled by the small creaking of the wooden floor. There were his two brothers, creeping out slowly and quietly out of their rooms. They were hesitant in coming any closer, but Jaejoong gestured for them to come over. Once seated, they stared at their hyung, waiting for Jaejoong to give them the plan. A moment of silence passed, and their hyung finally cracked.
”What are we going to do?!” Jaejoong asked in frustration, his hands shaking as he pounded his fists against the table with his head dipped down; his gaze practically burning holes into the ground. For the first time in his life, he was afraid. He was afraid of what was to happen to his brothers. He needed to find a real job, but what good paying job didn't require someone without work experience?
“I refuse. I refuse to bring you two down along with me. You’re going back to live with our parents,” Jaejoong let out a shaky sigh, pen poised above the checkbook.
“We’re not going anywhere, hyung.” Changmin frowned, slamming the palm of his hands firmly against the dining table. “You told us we were going to stick together no matter what. WHY the fuck are you turning your back on us now, huh?!”
“Well what else do you suggest we do, huh?!”
“Hyung!” Junsu suddenly interjected, slipping in between Changmin and Jaejoong, just in case things were to get physical. He highly doubted it, since Jaejoong wasn’t the type to resort to violence, and Changmin would never lay a harmful hand on their brother. Jaejoong knew Junsu’s habits of being cautious anyway.
“I’m so damn sick of your selfish attitude! Stop trying to play hero and accept some help for once in your life! Junsu and I have to look for jobs ourselves without telling you!”
“You did WHAT?!” Jaejoong shot up with a yell, and Junsu’s body was practically flung off to the side like a stuffed teddy bear knocked off a shelf. “You know you are NOT allowed to find a job on your own, especially without consulting with me!”
“What else were we supposed to do, hyung? Let you deal with everything while we sit here with a pair of arms and legs doing nothing?! If you haven’t realized it yet, Junsu and I are well over 20 years old. We are not infants in diapers. We are in college and I think it is about time that you fucking see it! I understand how badly it is you want kids but don’t mix the idea with the fact that we are your brothers. Open your eyes, Jaejoong. We are perfectly capable of taking care of ourselves, so stop trying so hard in playing umma because we are not your fucking kids,” Changmin’s voice died low from a yell to a seethe.
A loud smack hit their ears as the sound bounced off the walls and lingered into the frozen stiff atmosphere. Jaejoong could see Junsu’s gaping expression when Changmin’s head snapped so hard to the left; he was worried for a moment that he was going to cause some serious damage to his precious maknae. He could hardly see the expression in Changmin’s eyes since his bangs were shielding him from seeing his eyes. They were probably filled with hate by now. Never in his life had he struck either of his brothers, regardless of how angry he was, but what Changmin said had been too much. Both of his brother’s knew better than to bring up a subject such as that. Without mustering up an apology, Jaejoong immediately brushed past him and immediately headed for the room he shared with Junsu.
After the slight yet gentle slam of the door, Junsu’s instincts kicked in after getting over his shock, he rushed over to Changmin and held his cheek. His brother immediately jerked back, and turned around, leaving Junsu unsure of his current emotions. Surely he must be shocked, because even Junsu knew that Jaejoong would never hit either of them for any reason. If they were ever beaten, they were beaten playfully with pillows and soft objects - not directly by their hyung’s hand.
“Min, are you…okay?” He asked softly, slowly making his way around Changmin so that he could see his face. “Y-You…you shouldn’t have said that. You know how sensitive he is about that subject,” Junsu said, immediately walking into the fridge to take out the ice cubes.
“I know that!” Changmin exclaimed, turning towards Junsu sharply and winced as he held onto the reddening skin of his cheek. “I know…I didn’t - ! I didn’t mean it like that…”
“You should’ve known better than to even touch the subject!” Junsu sighed harshly, shoving the ice cubes in a towel before kicking the fridge shut with his foot. “You’re gonna apologize to him, right? Please tell me you are.” He eyed his brother before placing the ice filled towel gently against Changmin’s cheek.
“I will.” The younger male winced, taking the towel from Junsu’s hand before muttering a small thanks. “He must be having the pleasure of imagining himself skinning me alive right now.”
“Don’t talk like that! You know Jaejoong hyung is not like that! He’s most likely crying to himself and sulking over your careless big mouth!” Junsu lectured haughtily while wagging his finger at the sulking and pouting boy.
“What are you, the stand-in umma for hyung?” Changmin muttered grumpily, plopping himself back into the chair in front of him. “I’ll talk to him…but, Junsu. What are we going to do? Do you think we’ll have to use the money we’ve saved up for the restaurant?”
“I don’t know,” Junsu began to speak, when his cell phone vibrated first before ringing out inside his pocket. “Aish, hold on.” Junsu turned around to answer his call while Changmin sighed deeply and mumbled something else. “Hello? Ah, Yoochun. Right now isn’t a good time.”
Changmin sat around, half listening to Junsu’s conversation while tending to his still burning cheek. His eyes immediately shot over to his hyung’s pacing figure when he realized that Junsu was telling Yoochun about their financial problems. What?! Oh come on, Junsu, don’t bring them into this!
“Hyung - ” He tried to protest, but Junsu had dropped a dish rag on his head as he walked past the younger male.
“Eh? A-Are you sure, Yoochun? Well, I mean, I wouldn’t want to impose. Wouldn’t it be a bit awkward?” Junsu asked nervously, leaning against the kitchen counter, completely ignoring the fuming look on his maknae’s face. “Really? Would Yunho mind? A-Alright…thank you, Yoochun. Please, let us pay our share of the expenses - no! Let us or we’re not moving in!”
Changmin rolled his eyes. If he hated one thing, it was debt. They always asked for something in return and use that supposedly good deed to rub it in your fucking face. He was always touchy with the pride thing.
“Ah, shut up, shut up! Alright, alright. I’ll talk to Jaejoong hyung and Minnie about this. Thank you, we owe you,” Junsu said with a creepy mushy smile that probably made Changmin want to take that plastic knife from that take out bag and stab it right through his hand. Junsu slid his phone shut and turned around, crossing his arms, and Changmin looked at him expectantly. When Junsu did nothing but smile at him cheekily, he raised and eyebrow and decided to ask the obvious.
“So, what’s goin’ on?”
“Yoochun wants us to move in with him and Yunho,” Junsu said, bounding over to Changmin. “He wants us to move in A.S.A.P!”
“Wait. WHAT? Are you crazy?” Changmin hissed, dropping the long forgotten towels and ice onto the dining table. “Are you insane?! I’m going to assume that you don’t know about hyung’s disgust towards a certain someone.”
“Nah, don’t fret!” Junsu said casually with a wave of his hand. “Yunho isn’t as bad as the way hyung makes him out to be. Yoochun and he are pretty close and I haven’t heard terrible things from him anyway. C’mon Minnie, please?! I’ve persuaded Yoochun to let us pitch in on the expenses so we wouldn’t be freeloading completely. It’s not like we’re going to be staying forever either.”
“You make it sound like everything’s so easy going,” Changmin muttered, bitterly. “Well if we’re gonna do this, you’re gonna be the one to tell him because there is no way in hell I’m going to get slapped again.”
“Consider it done,” Junsu chuckled. “I’ll just bust out the puppy dog eyes and let my angelic voice free~”
“You’re just a suck-up with a fat ass.”
SLAP.
☆ ♪ ☆ ♪ ☆ ♪ ☆
He was going to have to start job searching today. The new landlord had come barging up to their door this morning, banging relentlessly, demanding to know where the rent was. Jaejoong hadn’t even known about the new rules that the old fart had officially “informed” the tenants. Either he didn’t tell them or Jaejoong had been too worrying about what to do. With what they had made from the last of the sales from their stand, he had to end up taking some of their savings for their restaurant.
Call him selfish, but he still wanted to avoid using the savings at all costs. No matter what, it was his dream, and they had worked hard for long enough. Just because their landlord had changed, and the rent had increased a thousand more, he refused to take any more money from his dream. If I did, wouldn’t everything be rendered useless? Of course he hadn’t wanted to limit his dongsaeng’s freedom to so much, which is why he insisted that they go back to their parents, but they had refused to do so.
For the time being, he promised himself that he was going to do his best and find another job. His mind drifted back to when Changmin had informed him of Junsu and him of getting their own jobs. Jaejoong wondered for how long that had been going on. What about their safety? What if their bosses were no good low lives that took a toll of pleasure by sexually harassing them and demanded that they don’t tell a soul?! Have they been raped by co-workers? Cu…stomers?
Ah jeez, Jaejoong, get a hold of yourself. They are not hookers. I’ve taught them better than that!
He always thought of the worst possible scenario. Perhaps it was a habit, but he knew that he always had to plan one step ahead and he always took everything with pre-caution. Jaejoong always tried his best anyway. Junsu and Changmin and the future business of his restaurant were top priority. In any case, he was going to get Changmin and Junsu to quit those jobs of theirs. Whether their employers or the environment of the work setting were good or bad, he refused to have their attentions diverted with such nonsense as this. Nothing should come in the way of them and studies. He majored in Business Management for a reason and he had no intentions of dropping out now. Jaejoong was going to have to juggle them all and he hoped to God that he would be able to make it though.
First thing was first, though. He was going to have to talk with the Director about dropping out of the school play. She would probably take her clipboard and shove it up his place where the sun doesn’t shine. He knew it would upset her, but what choice did he have? Jaejoong would have loved to have pleased his parents and take part in the play but there were just some things that were more important than others.
Rehearsal was about to begin in 20 minutes, and he figured he had to get this over with quickly. At least the play wasn’t going to be officially performed anytime soon. Director would probably do much worse than rectum abuse. Jaejoong gulped nervously as he watched the cranky woman yell at some of the students moving the props around the stage.
You can do this, Jaejoong. For the kids. For our future. For our future…
She’s not so scary anyway…I can take her on any day.
Jaejoong could feel the lump in his throat thickening as his steps brought him closer and closer to the woman who was now grabbing a chair from beside the table. Folding the chair up, she chucked her clipboard to the side before singlehandedly, chucking the folded chair onto the stage, barely missing the volunteers - undoubtedly scaring them.
Holy fucking shit!
Barely realizing that he was now sort of shuffling backwards, he caught himself in time to continue scolding inwardly at himself.
No! I can’t! C’mon Jae, she’s an old woman for crying out loud!
While summoning up the temporary courage he had at the moment, he quickly made his way towards the Director, subconsciously holding his breath; he finally let it out as he cleared his throat for her attention. The woman turned around from a snarl to eyes widening and a wide grin. This was going to be much harder than Jaejoong though.
“Kim Jaejoong! You’re early as usual.”
“Ah, yeah, but Director -”
“Thank God you’re reliable.”
“There’s something I have to tell you - ”
“I mean don’t get me started on these people,” The Director droned on, completely oblivious to the nervous Jaejoong. “I tell these idiots to move the props a certain way and what do you know?! They do the opposite of what I want them to do!”
“Ah, yes, but Director…there’s something I need to tell you - ”
“Seriously. I’m seriously beginning to think about recasting some people too!”
Jaejoong’s ears perked up at this. Recasting? That was too perfect! He could hope that she was going to replace him with someone else and he wouldn’t have to worry about her being upset or anything shoved up his ass!
“Don’t worry Kim Jaejoong; your position is forever sealed! I wouldn’t even think twice about recasting you.” A smile.
“…” Sad face.
Oh God, I’m dead.
“D-Director…I’m sorry…”
“Eh?! Why should you be? Never feel sorry for failures. Nobody really deserves attention if they don’t have true talent, I tell you - ”
“I want to withdraw myself from the play.” Jaejoong bravely said, shutting his eye in the process as he waited to get yelled at, beaten, or possibly violated.
The silence was almost deafening to his ears and to make things worse, everyone in the room froze in shock to what had slipped out of his mouth. He knew why. Nobody refused the Director and whoever volunteered to work in the play or auditioned were normally hardcore students who were serious in the acting business. Their director could have their reputations trashed within a snap of her fingers. Instead, his chin met the scrawny fingers of the woman who tilted his chin up and he instantly felt guilty as he met her confused face.
“May I ask, why?”
“It’s…complicated,” He stuttered, looking down at her. Instead of giving the Director his life story and breaking it down to the little details, time was something he just didn’t have. He would have loved to grasp it and control it however he wanted but it just wasn’t possible. “I have issues regarding my family…and I think the most sensible thing for me to do is to take care of their needs first.” He didn’t know what came over him, but when he had to explain in behalf of Junsu and Changmin, there was nothing stopping him from protecting them and tending to their needs first. “I apologize for the sudden notice and inconvenience, but I really do hope that you’d understand.”
A moment of silence passed again as the Director didn’t say a word. She stepped a way and walked away from Jaejoong, slowly, as if in thought. After a few seconds of awkward tension coming from his part, she turned around and nodded slightly; once.
“I do understand. It’s quite a shame that you couldn’t join us for this production…Kim Jaejoong,” She let out half a chuckle. “But I do expect you to come on back when you have resolved whatever it is that you need to fix. Is that clear?”
“Y-Yes, ma’am!” Jaejoong said as his back stiffening as he bowed once before turning away up the aisle towards the door. He couldn’t help but let out a sigh with a smile of relief. So he had survived the woman without our drowning him into her waves of wrath? Was he a survivor or what?
His smile immediately vanished as he looked up to push at the door; instead he came to face one of the most annoying men on the top of his list and at the most bottom of his priority list. Oh well. It wasn’t like he had to see Yunho around as much since he wasn’t going to be participating in this semester’s production, right?
“What’s this about you leaving?”
Jaejoong frowned, not wanting to bother wasting his time explaining his troubles to someone who won’t understand, he squeezed his way past the taller man. Unfortunately, to his luck, he was grabbed by the forearm and yanked outside the auditorium. They were out in the halls right now, and for a moment, Jaejoong wondered why there was not a soul in sight. It may have been after 12, but surely, people had class in the afternoon right? Strange.
“I thought being part of this play meant a big deal to your parents,” Yunho continued, blocking Jaejoong’s way as he tried to maneuver past the taller man once again. “Don’t tell me you’re dropping out because of me. I didn’t think you were immature to that extent.”
“Who the hell are you to talk?” Jaejoong shot back, not amused. “I would love to continue chatting about utter nonsense with you, right now, but I have other important business to attend to.” He tried to step the opposite direction, only to be yanked back in the arm again, now being officially pissed off by the way Yunho was treating him.
“Don’t just wal-”
“Would you stop -” Jaejoong jerked his arm out of Yunho’s firm grasp, shooting him the hardest glare to the point where he could feel his pupils threaten to roll into the back of his head. “-jerking me around like I’m some fucking ragdoll?! If you want to talk, then talk, but don’t expect me to explain every single fucking detail because I do not have the time of day! To answer your question, it is not your business. I have every right to change my mind about not taking part in the play. Also, considering the fact that I did not leave the auditorium with a single lump in my head proves that Director does not have a problem with my decision. The hells are you so nosy anyway? Shouldn’t you be happy that I don’t have to work with you anymore?”
“Stop answering my question with more questions,” Yunho snorted, crossing his arms. “I’m not stupid. I heard your conversation with the Director. Heck, everyone was so silent, people from the first floor can probably hear. I just want to know why you’re quitting.” Yunho’s hard gaze suddenly softened a bit, now suddenly worrying Jaejoong; in a strange way.
“I’ve already told you all I can tell you,” Jaejoong said, looking away.
“What sort of family issues do you have? You wouldn’t change your mind about something so big so easily if it weren’t for something stopping you. Tell me. What is it? Is there anything I can do?” He asked; his voice soft.
Okay. Jaejoong was confused. He couldn’t really understand why Yunho was suddenly being so nice. Wasn’t he full of himself and insulting his status in the first place? Or he’s probably worried about Changmin and Junsu. Hah. As if he’ll ever let them have anything to do with this bastard. It irked him that those three got a long so well - a little too well for his liking. There was no way in hell he was going to be replaced. Jaejoong was their brother. It was his responsibility to take care of them, not Yunho. The thought sent anger burning into his bones and his teeth grounded together in agitation.
“Why don’t you just mind your fucking business, Yunho? Stop pretending like you care for someone other than yourself,” Jaejoong scoffed angrily, shoving Yunho sharply aside with his elbow. Something way back in his mind told him that what he was saying might not be true, but there were these moments where he just couldn’t help himself. Sometimes there were things people say that they just don’t mean. Or did he really mean it?
“Why do you always make people out to be who you want them to be? What makes you think I’m the kind of person you say I am? You don’t know me. I’m trying to help you! Why the hell won’t you just let me?!” The older man exclaimed, shooting out an arm to drag Jaejoong back.
“Then find someone else who actually wants your pity.”
“This isn’t fair to Junsu and Min.”
“I will decide what is fair for my brothers,” Jaejoong seethed in return, jerking Yunho’s arm off before stalking his way past the double doors to the exit. Yunho growled angrily before landing a hard smash against the door with his fist.
Jaejoong cringed, and he had to admit, he was a little afraid at the sudden force of the smash and echo. He could feel his skin tingling at the sudden feeling and as unnoticeable as possible, he picked up his pace and made his way out of the building as fast as he could.
☆ ♪ ☆ ♪ ☆ ♪ ☆
The door busted open as Jaejoong came in with his handbag draped across his chest with bundles of newspapers in his arms. He had taken the bus to a few stores for different newspapers. He figured the more options he had, the better. Jaejoong had been so sucked into his thoughts, he had forgotten about calling Changmin and Junsu off their jobs.
“Argh! How could I forget?!”
Dropping the newspapers onto the desk, he shoved his hand into his pocket to fish out his cell phone. He had to remind himself to keep their conversations short, seeing as to how their options were limited. For a brief moment, Jaejoong wondered if they should continue their texting plan. 20 a month could be quite a bitch at this income huh? What the hell was he thinking about?
Income? What fucking income? We have no income!
Pressing the speed dial to Junsu, he immediately pressed the phone to his ear to hear Junsu’s ringtone behind him. Turning around in surprise, he saw Changmin and Junsu entering the apartment and it reminded him of the old days when things actually went smoothly when they were argument free. No drama. No easily rebelling Changmin. It was just…nice.
“W-What are you guys doing home?” He asked, pressing the End call button on his phone.
“Isn’t that our usual routine?” Changmin asked, raising an eyebrow. “We’ve called our bosses and asked for a day off today because we’re going to spend the day today to move. The movers ought to be here tonight at 18:00 so I suggest that we all get packing.
“WHAT?!”
“Ah, would you like to elaborate more on that, Min?!” Junsu squeaked, suddenly hiding behind Changmin’s tall figure.
“YOU do it. I already ended up telling him first anyway,” Changmin said with a snort before he walked into the small hallway to start packing.
“Junsu, you are going to explain every single thing to me here and now,” Jaejoong said as his gaze darkened as he literally grabbed Junsu’s wrist and yanked him into a chair. “Start. Talking.”
Junsu stared up at his hyung in horror as his mind raced against the speed of time to come up with an explanation that won’t leave Jaejoong harming him in any physical way. Sadly, his mind conjured up nothing as he ended up blurting out whatever came into his head. He explained everything to Jaejoong about Changmin and his part time jobs with Yunho and Yoochun to Yoochun’s offerings about staying with them in the house. The whole story had come out into a string of blahs, and Jaejoong was surprised at himself that he actually managed to follow through.
He was silent for a moment as he slunk into his deep thoughts himself, really wondering if it was really okay for him to allow this. They didn’t have to. When the movers came, he could tell them to send their asses back onto their trucks and leave. He knew this went against all this beliefs on accepting help so easily from someone else, but for the sake of his restaurant…No, wait. He couldn’t accept this! This would mean using them to his advantage. No, he wasn’t going to have any of that. Jaejoong would go back to his original plan of finding his own job and supporting his own family. Perhaps the opening of their restaurant will take longer but, damn it, if he was going to do this he was wanted to work hard for his own success. Not sponge off of some damn rich people that didn’t understand what true hardships were.
“No.”
“But hyung!”
“Damn it, Kim Junsu, don’t argue with me! I said, NO! What on earth were you thinking, accepting hospitality from Yoochun just like that? Like it’s so easy? Are you kidding me? Haven’t I taught you better than that? I want you to quit your job and let me handle things from here.”
“BUT…BUT HYUNG!”
“No more! Alright? Just focus on your studies. We’ll be fine. I won’t let you two down again. I promised umma and appa that I’d take care of you two and I’m not one to break my promise. Now go get Changmin to stop packing. I’m sure with your convincing skills you can get him to change his mind. Give me Yoochun’s number so I can call him, too.” Jaejoong said, opening his phone again.
“We’re heeere!” A sudden cheery voice rang out into the room as Jaejoong whipped around to see an overly ecstatic Yoochun followed by a mildly grumpy Yunho.
“What - ” Jaejoong wanted to speak. Yet, he couldn’t. What the hell was going on here?!
“Ahha…sorry hyung, but…I guess I just assumed you’d say yes with my convincing so I told Yoochun it was okay for him and Yunho to come over and help us pack…?” Junsu said, nervously, as he immediately dashed over to Yoochun in case his hyung were to explode and possibly fling him into the wall.
“I’m…sorry, Yoochun, but we just can’t accept your offer.” Jaejoong bowed his head a bit, feeling guilty for rejecting such a great offer, but he was desperate for Yoochun and Yunho to understand that he wanted to settle their own issues by himself. It was never courteous to allow himself to trouble other people for their charity. He always preferred to do things alone. His brothers relied on him and he just didn’t want their hopes on him to die just because they were going to live with two very stable bachelors people.
“Eh? Nonsense! We’d be glad to help you out! Besides, I’ve already told Junsu that you guys can pay for part of the expenses. That would make you feel less guilty right?” Yoochun asked, hoping for the man to agree. He had seen the way Junsu had suffered emotionally, and he knew how the cause of that was Jaejoong’s stubbornness. But if he were to tell Jaejoong that then surely that would break the latter’s heart by tenfold. “We’d really like to help and it’s getting kind of lonely. I mean, Yunho’s cool and all but sometimes his messiness just drives me up the wall and I just wanna strangle him, ha-ha - ”
Yunho sent Yoochun a warning glare as if to say you are not helping the situation, idiot.
“A-As I appreciate you for your generosity, I really do think that problems of our own should be solved by the people who are involved,” Jaejoong spoke; now trying to play the stern card. He didn’t want to be mean, but there was no other way to get Yoochun to back off. The man was persistent, and while it hurt Jaejoong to reject such a nice guy, it just had to be done. You gotta do what you gotta do.
“Yah! Hyung! Help me out here!” Yoochun exclaimed, punching Yunho hard on the arm. “Maybe Jaejoong will miraculously listen to you,” he hissed into the taller man’s ear, and gave him a shove towards Jaejoong and Junsu.
“Sheesh…”
Yunho? Convince me? Jaejoong thought, arching an eyebrow. Alright, this will be easier than I thought.
“You might as well come live with us since you can hardly support yourself and your two brothers anyway,” Yunho said with a shrug as he shoved his hands into his pockets casually. Jaejoong almost felt his palms sweat and pulse boil immediately. This was expected, so why did he suddenly feel surprised.
“What.”
“We all know how stubborn you are, but don’t you even think about your brothers for a second?”
“I DO think about them! Every time of the day! What I’m doing is for their future. It’s for our future. Don’t even think for a second that I’m some selfish scumbag because their unhappiness is the least of what I want for them.” Jaejoong knew he was letting his temper and emotion control his actions, but he was always an emotional person to begin with.
“Please.” A calm, yet irritatingly, mocking scoff. “Happiness? You must’ve missed the agonizing look in Changmin’s eyes. Most of the time Junsu’s working his shifts with Chun, he’s always moping around about how he’s constantly worrying about you; saving money just to help you. What do you do? You call yourself a good brother but if you were, you’d see deeper, wouldn’t you? You would’ve caught on that they were sneaking around with their jobs and you sure as hell wouldn’t have missed the look of sadness and hurt in their eyes every time you saw them right?”
At this point Jaejoong would have given Yunho a piece of his mind. Hell he could’ve slapped him across the face and beat him with a frying pan all he wanted but he couldn’t deny the fact that this bastard was right.
Moments ago Junsu was begging for him to agree to the proposition and he didn’t even think once about what it was like to be in Junsu’s shoes - to be forced to sit there and watch the situation get worse and worse. He didn’t realize how Changmin and Junsu’s expression were duller compared to the times before when his brothers would always look up to him for anything with a smile. He missed those smiles that showed no suspicion of awkwardness or sadness. Heck, Changmin was suddenly becoming more ill tempered and violent. He had suspicions of it, but he was probably too engrossed with the establishment of their future business. Had he been too occupied with his dreams?
“What you are doing now is selfish. They’re desperately asking for your help and you chose to ignore them and be the stubborn person you are. You try to play hero by taking the burden head on on your shoulders but you’re also bringing Min and Su with you. Don’t you realize that yet? I figured a grown man in college like you would have the sensibility to see that sort of common sense. You preach to me about not caring about anyone by myself and the laws of common courtesy when you can’t even do the same for your own loved ones.”
Jaejoong’s head and body was about to burst out of anger, fear, hatred, pain, all wrapped into one tight compact bundle. Yunho’s words struck him cold with shame. He would never admit to Yunho straight up that he was right. He was always stubborn and that was how it was going to be, but he suppose he could change a bit. No, not could. He must. Jaejoong had to set things right.
“You’re not touching a piece of the savings in your restaurant, by the way.” Yoochun suddenly spoke up as he already felt the awkward tension. Plus, he had seen Jaejoong’s skin suddenly shudder and he didn’t want to know if it was out of anger but he wasn’t stupid to the fact that Yunho had indeed, struck a nerve. “You won’t have to worry about Junsu working with me and I’m sure Yunho’s taking really good care of Changmin.”
Jaejoong continued to stay silent, as it appeared as if he was looking down at the floor in shame. He was in a way, but at the same time, he was deep in thought. There was also no way he could actually look at Yunho and face him literally, especially after the fool the man had just made him to be. He thought it over once more in his head, before he decided to pop the question.
“Junsu…”
“Y-Yes, hyung?” Junsu’s quivering voice asked, and Jaejoong could hear the nervousness in his voice.
Is he that afraid of me? Jaejoong thought, his heart wrenching even further at the sight.
“Do you…like…working with Yoochun? Is he good to you?”
Yoochun’s expression faltered, feeling a little insulted that Jaejoong didn’t believe him when he said he was a good employer. Ah well. It was a hyung’s insecurity. It was understandable.
“Yes! Very much! Yoochun is very good to me, and I enjoy helping him take care of the patients. He treats everyone respectfully, and hyung, I really like what I do. You wouldn’t believe how great it feels, changing someone’s life…” Junsu had ended up rambling on and on, and Jaejoong fought every urge to chuckle.
Does Su know how adorable he looks when he suddenly acts like nobody else exists in this room? He’s practically thrown into a world of his own. It’s been such a long time since I’ve seen him this happy.
Right at that moment, Changmin had decided to come out from the narrow hallway for a bottle of water, and he froze almost immediately when he saw that Yoochun and Yunho had finally arrived.
“Hyung!” He chirped happily, running over to Yunho, giving him a poke on the arm. Yoochun gaped at the younger boy, again, feeling oh so down at the lack of attention he was getting. He didn’t understand.
Why did everyone like him when he was so arrogant and hot headed?! Yoochun thought with an inward cry.
Jaejoong sighed. Well, Changmin was a pretty hard cookie to crack. If even a doofas like Yunho could get Min to like him, then he supposed Changmin loved his job as well. Earning the boy’s respect wasn’t an easy task after all.
At that point, it seemed like everyone was silent, nervously watching Jaejoong, and waiting for his approval. Jaejoong actually wanted to say yes but pride was eating away at him and he shifted from one foot to another in thought of what to say or do that will actually let them know that he approved.
“Well…I’ll just,” He spoke softly, looking anywhere but the eyes that were staring at him. “Go and pack then…”
TBC…
A/N: My muses came to me at such a crappy ass hour but I hoped this update was worth it. I've been working for too long and I guess a part of me wanted to write that stress out? Lol.
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3 | 5
Chapter(s): 04/xx
Author: sentimentalenvy
Genre: romance
Rating: PG-13 - R
Warning(s): language (for now)
Pairing/Characters: Yunjae, Yoosu and Minfood
Disclaimer: I do not own them.
Synopsis: Three best friends struggle to make the best of what they have in their lives meets. They meet two best friends whom have yet to learn the values of real feelings and hardships. Both parties fight for the chance to live a simple life. However, they will find that life is anything but simple.
Comment(s): Has this story been forgotten o: ?
4
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It was impossible…
Just when he thought things were going smoothly, this, why did this have to happen? Jaejoong sat at the kitchen table, staring aimlessly at the basket of fruit set in the middle of the table. All the nights were shut off, except for the one light settled in the middle of the kitchen ceiling. The only thing that was running through his mind was the safety of his brothers.
This afternoon, the manager and the landlord had come up to him with faces of regret. Almost immediately, he knew they were here to deliver bad news. Their manager and landlord were switched to manage another property. The new manager didn’t fancy the idea of having their stand, and to make things worse, he claimed that the rent the old manager set was too low. Jaejoong sighed, running his fingers through his hair deep in thought. He was going to have to look for an actual job but he didn’t want to because he wouldn’t be able to stay with Changmin and Junsu. He couldn’t imagine the thought of coming home late and not spending as much time with his brothers. He decided that he was going to find work right away. In the meantime, he might as well use the money they had saved up for their business.
In terms of financial issues with school, Changmin’s scholarship was good for a year, but then again, Junsu and he were already on the loan. Maybe things would be better if Changmin and Junsu were to go back and live with their parents. After all, they had no trouble paying the bills, especially for 2 more people. But…he wanted to live with his two brothers like this. He enjoyed being with them. He wanted to be the one to take care of them. What was he going to do? With the ridiculous rent raise, the money he had saved up wouldn’t be enough to last forever.
“Hyung…”
Jaejoong lifted his head up, slightly startled by the small creaking of the wooden floor. There were his two brothers, creeping out slowly and quietly out of their rooms. They were hesitant in coming any closer, but Jaejoong gestured for them to come over. Once seated, they stared at their hyung, waiting for Jaejoong to give them the plan. A moment of silence passed, and their hyung finally cracked.
”What are we going to do?!” Jaejoong asked in frustration, his hands shaking as he pounded his fists against the table with his head dipped down; his gaze practically burning holes into the ground. For the first time in his life, he was afraid. He was afraid of what was to happen to his brothers. He needed to find a real job, but what good paying job didn't require someone without work experience?
“I refuse. I refuse to bring you two down along with me. You’re going back to live with our parents,” Jaejoong let out a shaky sigh, pen poised above the checkbook.
“We’re not going anywhere, hyung.” Changmin frowned, slamming the palm of his hands firmly against the dining table. “You told us we were going to stick together no matter what. WHY the fuck are you turning your back on us now, huh?!”
“Well what else do you suggest we do, huh?!”
“Hyung!” Junsu suddenly interjected, slipping in between Changmin and Jaejoong, just in case things were to get physical. He highly doubted it, since Jaejoong wasn’t the type to resort to violence, and Changmin would never lay a harmful hand on their brother. Jaejoong knew Junsu’s habits of being cautious anyway.
“I’m so damn sick of your selfish attitude! Stop trying to play hero and accept some help for once in your life! Junsu and I have to look for jobs ourselves without telling you!”
“You did WHAT?!” Jaejoong shot up with a yell, and Junsu’s body was practically flung off to the side like a stuffed teddy bear knocked off a shelf. “You know you are NOT allowed to find a job on your own, especially without consulting with me!”
“What else were we supposed to do, hyung? Let you deal with everything while we sit here with a pair of arms and legs doing nothing?! If you haven’t realized it yet, Junsu and I are well over 20 years old. We are not infants in diapers. We are in college and I think it is about time that you fucking see it! I understand how badly it is you want kids but don’t mix the idea with the fact that we are your brothers. Open your eyes, Jaejoong. We are perfectly capable of taking care of ourselves, so stop trying so hard in playing umma because we are not your fucking kids,” Changmin’s voice died low from a yell to a seethe.
A loud smack hit their ears as the sound bounced off the walls and lingered into the frozen stiff atmosphere. Jaejoong could see Junsu’s gaping expression when Changmin’s head snapped so hard to the left; he was worried for a moment that he was going to cause some serious damage to his precious maknae. He could hardly see the expression in Changmin’s eyes since his bangs were shielding him from seeing his eyes. They were probably filled with hate by now. Never in his life had he struck either of his brothers, regardless of how angry he was, but what Changmin said had been too much. Both of his brother’s knew better than to bring up a subject such as that. Without mustering up an apology, Jaejoong immediately brushed past him and immediately headed for the room he shared with Junsu.
After the slight yet gentle slam of the door, Junsu’s instincts kicked in after getting over his shock, he rushed over to Changmin and held his cheek. His brother immediately jerked back, and turned around, leaving Junsu unsure of his current emotions. Surely he must be shocked, because even Junsu knew that Jaejoong would never hit either of them for any reason. If they were ever beaten, they were beaten playfully with pillows and soft objects - not directly by their hyung’s hand.
“Min, are you…okay?” He asked softly, slowly making his way around Changmin so that he could see his face. “Y-You…you shouldn’t have said that. You know how sensitive he is about that subject,” Junsu said, immediately walking into the fridge to take out the ice cubes.
“I know that!” Changmin exclaimed, turning towards Junsu sharply and winced as he held onto the reddening skin of his cheek. “I know…I didn’t - ! I didn’t mean it like that…”
“You should’ve known better than to even touch the subject!” Junsu sighed harshly, shoving the ice cubes in a towel before kicking the fridge shut with his foot. “You’re gonna apologize to him, right? Please tell me you are.” He eyed his brother before placing the ice filled towel gently against Changmin’s cheek.
“I will.” The younger male winced, taking the towel from Junsu’s hand before muttering a small thanks. “He must be having the pleasure of imagining himself skinning me alive right now.”
“Don’t talk like that! You know Jaejoong hyung is not like that! He’s most likely crying to himself and sulking over your careless big mouth!” Junsu lectured haughtily while wagging his finger at the sulking and pouting boy.
“What are you, the stand-in umma for hyung?” Changmin muttered grumpily, plopping himself back into the chair in front of him. “I’ll talk to him…but, Junsu. What are we going to do? Do you think we’ll have to use the money we’ve saved up for the restaurant?”
“I don’t know,” Junsu began to speak, when his cell phone vibrated first before ringing out inside his pocket. “Aish, hold on.” Junsu turned around to answer his call while Changmin sighed deeply and mumbled something else. “Hello? Ah, Yoochun. Right now isn’t a good time.”
Changmin sat around, half listening to Junsu’s conversation while tending to his still burning cheek. His eyes immediately shot over to his hyung’s pacing figure when he realized that Junsu was telling Yoochun about their financial problems. What?! Oh come on, Junsu, don’t bring them into this!
“Hyung - ” He tried to protest, but Junsu had dropped a dish rag on his head as he walked past the younger male.
“Eh? A-Are you sure, Yoochun? Well, I mean, I wouldn’t want to impose. Wouldn’t it be a bit awkward?” Junsu asked nervously, leaning against the kitchen counter, completely ignoring the fuming look on his maknae’s face. “Really? Would Yunho mind? A-Alright…thank you, Yoochun. Please, let us pay our share of the expenses - no! Let us or we’re not moving in!”
Changmin rolled his eyes. If he hated one thing, it was debt. They always asked for something in return and use that supposedly good deed to rub it in your fucking face. He was always touchy with the pride thing.
“Ah, shut up, shut up! Alright, alright. I’ll talk to Jaejoong hyung and Minnie about this. Thank you, we owe you,” Junsu said with a creepy mushy smile that probably made Changmin want to take that plastic knife from that take out bag and stab it right through his hand. Junsu slid his phone shut and turned around, crossing his arms, and Changmin looked at him expectantly. When Junsu did nothing but smile at him cheekily, he raised and eyebrow and decided to ask the obvious.
“So, what’s goin’ on?”
“Yoochun wants us to move in with him and Yunho,” Junsu said, bounding over to Changmin. “He wants us to move in A.S.A.P!”
“Wait. WHAT? Are you crazy?” Changmin hissed, dropping the long forgotten towels and ice onto the dining table. “Are you insane?! I’m going to assume that you don’t know about hyung’s disgust towards a certain someone.”
“Nah, don’t fret!” Junsu said casually with a wave of his hand. “Yunho isn’t as bad as the way hyung makes him out to be. Yoochun and he are pretty close and I haven’t heard terrible things from him anyway. C’mon Minnie, please?! I’ve persuaded Yoochun to let us pitch in on the expenses so we wouldn’t be freeloading completely. It’s not like we’re going to be staying forever either.”
“You make it sound like everything’s so easy going,” Changmin muttered, bitterly. “Well if we’re gonna do this, you’re gonna be the one to tell him because there is no way in hell I’m going to get slapped again.”
“Consider it done,” Junsu chuckled. “I’ll just bust out the puppy dog eyes and let my angelic voice free~”
“You’re just a suck-up with a fat ass.”
SLAP.
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He was going to have to start job searching today. The new landlord had come barging up to their door this morning, banging relentlessly, demanding to know where the rent was. Jaejoong hadn’t even known about the new rules that the old fart had officially “informed” the tenants. Either he didn’t tell them or Jaejoong had been too worrying about what to do. With what they had made from the last of the sales from their stand, he had to end up taking some of their savings for their restaurant.
Call him selfish, but he still wanted to avoid using the savings at all costs. No matter what, it was his dream, and they had worked hard for long enough. Just because their landlord had changed, and the rent had increased a thousand more, he refused to take any more money from his dream. If I did, wouldn’t everything be rendered useless? Of course he hadn’t wanted to limit his dongsaeng’s freedom to so much, which is why he insisted that they go back to their parents, but they had refused to do so.
For the time being, he promised himself that he was going to do his best and find another job. His mind drifted back to when Changmin had informed him of Junsu and him of getting their own jobs. Jaejoong wondered for how long that had been going on. What about their safety? What if their bosses were no good low lives that took a toll of pleasure by sexually harassing them and demanded that they don’t tell a soul?! Have they been raped by co-workers? Cu…stomers?
Ah jeez, Jaejoong, get a hold of yourself. They are not hookers. I’ve taught them better than that!
He always thought of the worst possible scenario. Perhaps it was a habit, but he knew that he always had to plan one step ahead and he always took everything with pre-caution. Jaejoong always tried his best anyway. Junsu and Changmin and the future business of his restaurant were top priority. In any case, he was going to get Changmin and Junsu to quit those jobs of theirs. Whether their employers or the environment of the work setting were good or bad, he refused to have their attentions diverted with such nonsense as this. Nothing should come in the way of them and studies. He majored in Business Management for a reason and he had no intentions of dropping out now. Jaejoong was going to have to juggle them all and he hoped to God that he would be able to make it though.
First thing was first, though. He was going to have to talk with the Director about dropping out of the school play. She would probably take her clipboard and shove it up his place where the sun doesn’t shine. He knew it would upset her, but what choice did he have? Jaejoong would have loved to have pleased his parents and take part in the play but there were just some things that were more important than others.
Rehearsal was about to begin in 20 minutes, and he figured he had to get this over with quickly. At least the play wasn’t going to be officially performed anytime soon. Director would probably do much worse than rectum abuse. Jaejoong gulped nervously as he watched the cranky woman yell at some of the students moving the props around the stage.
You can do this, Jaejoong. For the kids. For our future. For our future…
She’s not so scary anyway…I can take her on any day.
Jaejoong could feel the lump in his throat thickening as his steps brought him closer and closer to the woman who was now grabbing a chair from beside the table. Folding the chair up, she chucked her clipboard to the side before singlehandedly, chucking the folded chair onto the stage, barely missing the volunteers - undoubtedly scaring them.
Holy fucking shit!
Barely realizing that he was now sort of shuffling backwards, he caught himself in time to continue scolding inwardly at himself.
No! I can’t! C’mon Jae, she’s an old woman for crying out loud!
While summoning up the temporary courage he had at the moment, he quickly made his way towards the Director, subconsciously holding his breath; he finally let it out as he cleared his throat for her attention. The woman turned around from a snarl to eyes widening and a wide grin. This was going to be much harder than Jaejoong though.
“Kim Jaejoong! You’re early as usual.”
“Ah, yeah, but Director -”
“Thank God you’re reliable.”
“There’s something I have to tell you - ”
“I mean don’t get me started on these people,” The Director droned on, completely oblivious to the nervous Jaejoong. “I tell these idiots to move the props a certain way and what do you know?! They do the opposite of what I want them to do!”
“Ah, yes, but Director…there’s something I need to tell you - ”
“Seriously. I’m seriously beginning to think about recasting some people too!”
Jaejoong’s ears perked up at this. Recasting? That was too perfect! He could hope that she was going to replace him with someone else and he wouldn’t have to worry about her being upset or anything shoved up his ass!
“Don’t worry Kim Jaejoong; your position is forever sealed! I wouldn’t even think twice about recasting you.” A smile.
“…” Sad face.
Oh God, I’m dead.
“D-Director…I’m sorry…”
“Eh?! Why should you be? Never feel sorry for failures. Nobody really deserves attention if they don’t have true talent, I tell you - ”
“I want to withdraw myself from the play.” Jaejoong bravely said, shutting his eye in the process as he waited to get yelled at, beaten, or possibly violated.
The silence was almost deafening to his ears and to make things worse, everyone in the room froze in shock to what had slipped out of his mouth. He knew why. Nobody refused the Director and whoever volunteered to work in the play or auditioned were normally hardcore students who were serious in the acting business. Their director could have their reputations trashed within a snap of her fingers. Instead, his chin met the scrawny fingers of the woman who tilted his chin up and he instantly felt guilty as he met her confused face.
“May I ask, why?”
“It’s…complicated,” He stuttered, looking down at her. Instead of giving the Director his life story and breaking it down to the little details, time was something he just didn’t have. He would have loved to grasp it and control it however he wanted but it just wasn’t possible. “I have issues regarding my family…and I think the most sensible thing for me to do is to take care of their needs first.” He didn’t know what came over him, but when he had to explain in behalf of Junsu and Changmin, there was nothing stopping him from protecting them and tending to their needs first. “I apologize for the sudden notice and inconvenience, but I really do hope that you’d understand.”
A moment of silence passed again as the Director didn’t say a word. She stepped a way and walked away from Jaejoong, slowly, as if in thought. After a few seconds of awkward tension coming from his part, she turned around and nodded slightly; once.
“I do understand. It’s quite a shame that you couldn’t join us for this production…Kim Jaejoong,” She let out half a chuckle. “But I do expect you to come on back when you have resolved whatever it is that you need to fix. Is that clear?”
“Y-Yes, ma’am!” Jaejoong said as his back stiffening as he bowed once before turning away up the aisle towards the door. He couldn’t help but let out a sigh with a smile of relief. So he had survived the woman without our drowning him into her waves of wrath? Was he a survivor or what?
His smile immediately vanished as he looked up to push at the door; instead he came to face one of the most annoying men on the top of his list and at the most bottom of his priority list. Oh well. It wasn’t like he had to see Yunho around as much since he wasn’t going to be participating in this semester’s production, right?
“What’s this about you leaving?”
Jaejoong frowned, not wanting to bother wasting his time explaining his troubles to someone who won’t understand, he squeezed his way past the taller man. Unfortunately, to his luck, he was grabbed by the forearm and yanked outside the auditorium. They were out in the halls right now, and for a moment, Jaejoong wondered why there was not a soul in sight. It may have been after 12, but surely, people had class in the afternoon right? Strange.
“I thought being part of this play meant a big deal to your parents,” Yunho continued, blocking Jaejoong’s way as he tried to maneuver past the taller man once again. “Don’t tell me you’re dropping out because of me. I didn’t think you were immature to that extent.”
“Who the hell are you to talk?” Jaejoong shot back, not amused. “I would love to continue chatting about utter nonsense with you, right now, but I have other important business to attend to.” He tried to step the opposite direction, only to be yanked back in the arm again, now being officially pissed off by the way Yunho was treating him.
“Don’t just wal-”
“Would you stop -” Jaejoong jerked his arm out of Yunho’s firm grasp, shooting him the hardest glare to the point where he could feel his pupils threaten to roll into the back of his head. “-jerking me around like I’m some fucking ragdoll?! If you want to talk, then talk, but don’t expect me to explain every single fucking detail because I do not have the time of day! To answer your question, it is not your business. I have every right to change my mind about not taking part in the play. Also, considering the fact that I did not leave the auditorium with a single lump in my head proves that Director does not have a problem with my decision. The hells are you so nosy anyway? Shouldn’t you be happy that I don’t have to work with you anymore?”
“Stop answering my question with more questions,” Yunho snorted, crossing his arms. “I’m not stupid. I heard your conversation with the Director. Heck, everyone was so silent, people from the first floor can probably hear. I just want to know why you’re quitting.” Yunho’s hard gaze suddenly softened a bit, now suddenly worrying Jaejoong; in a strange way.
“I’ve already told you all I can tell you,” Jaejoong said, looking away.
“What sort of family issues do you have? You wouldn’t change your mind about something so big so easily if it weren’t for something stopping you. Tell me. What is it? Is there anything I can do?” He asked; his voice soft.
Okay. Jaejoong was confused. He couldn’t really understand why Yunho was suddenly being so nice. Wasn’t he full of himself and insulting his status in the first place? Or he’s probably worried about Changmin and Junsu. Hah. As if he’ll ever let them have anything to do with this bastard. It irked him that those three got a long so well - a little too well for his liking. There was no way in hell he was going to be replaced. Jaejoong was their brother. It was his responsibility to take care of them, not Yunho. The thought sent anger burning into his bones and his teeth grounded together in agitation.
“Why don’t you just mind your fucking business, Yunho? Stop pretending like you care for someone other than yourself,” Jaejoong scoffed angrily, shoving Yunho sharply aside with his elbow. Something way back in his mind told him that what he was saying might not be true, but there were these moments where he just couldn’t help himself. Sometimes there were things people say that they just don’t mean. Or did he really mean it?
“Why do you always make people out to be who you want them to be? What makes you think I’m the kind of person you say I am? You don’t know me. I’m trying to help you! Why the hell won’t you just let me?!” The older man exclaimed, shooting out an arm to drag Jaejoong back.
“Then find someone else who actually wants your pity.”
“This isn’t fair to Junsu and Min.”
“I will decide what is fair for my brothers,” Jaejoong seethed in return, jerking Yunho’s arm off before stalking his way past the double doors to the exit. Yunho growled angrily before landing a hard smash against the door with his fist.
Jaejoong cringed, and he had to admit, he was a little afraid at the sudden force of the smash and echo. He could feel his skin tingling at the sudden feeling and as unnoticeable as possible, he picked up his pace and made his way out of the building as fast as he could.
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The door busted open as Jaejoong came in with his handbag draped across his chest with bundles of newspapers in his arms. He had taken the bus to a few stores for different newspapers. He figured the more options he had, the better. Jaejoong had been so sucked into his thoughts, he had forgotten about calling Changmin and Junsu off their jobs.
“Argh! How could I forget?!”
Dropping the newspapers onto the desk, he shoved his hand into his pocket to fish out his cell phone. He had to remind himself to keep their conversations short, seeing as to how their options were limited. For a brief moment, Jaejoong wondered if they should continue their texting plan. 20 a month could be quite a bitch at this income huh? What the hell was he thinking about?
Income? What fucking income? We have no income!
Pressing the speed dial to Junsu, he immediately pressed the phone to his ear to hear Junsu’s ringtone behind him. Turning around in surprise, he saw Changmin and Junsu entering the apartment and it reminded him of the old days when things actually went smoothly when they were argument free. No drama. No easily rebelling Changmin. It was just…nice.
“W-What are you guys doing home?” He asked, pressing the End call button on his phone.
“Isn’t that our usual routine?” Changmin asked, raising an eyebrow. “We’ve called our bosses and asked for a day off today because we’re going to spend the day today to move. The movers ought to be here tonight at 18:00 so I suggest that we all get packing.
“WHAT?!”
“Ah, would you like to elaborate more on that, Min?!” Junsu squeaked, suddenly hiding behind Changmin’s tall figure.
“YOU do it. I already ended up telling him first anyway,” Changmin said with a snort before he walked into the small hallway to start packing.
“Junsu, you are going to explain every single thing to me here and now,” Jaejoong said as his gaze darkened as he literally grabbed Junsu’s wrist and yanked him into a chair. “Start. Talking.”
Junsu stared up at his hyung in horror as his mind raced against the speed of time to come up with an explanation that won’t leave Jaejoong harming him in any physical way. Sadly, his mind conjured up nothing as he ended up blurting out whatever came into his head. He explained everything to Jaejoong about Changmin and his part time jobs with Yunho and Yoochun to Yoochun’s offerings about staying with them in the house. The whole story had come out into a string of blahs, and Jaejoong was surprised at himself that he actually managed to follow through.
He was silent for a moment as he slunk into his deep thoughts himself, really wondering if it was really okay for him to allow this. They didn’t have to. When the movers came, he could tell them to send their asses back onto their trucks and leave. He knew this went against all this beliefs on accepting help so easily from someone else, but for the sake of his restaurant…No, wait. He couldn’t accept this! This would mean using them to his advantage. No, he wasn’t going to have any of that. Jaejoong would go back to his original plan of finding his own job and supporting his own family. Perhaps the opening of their restaurant will take longer but, damn it, if he was going to do this he was wanted to work hard for his own success. Not sponge off of some damn rich people that didn’t understand what true hardships were.
“No.”
“But hyung!”
“Damn it, Kim Junsu, don’t argue with me! I said, NO! What on earth were you thinking, accepting hospitality from Yoochun just like that? Like it’s so easy? Are you kidding me? Haven’t I taught you better than that? I want you to quit your job and let me handle things from here.”
“BUT…BUT HYUNG!”
“No more! Alright? Just focus on your studies. We’ll be fine. I won’t let you two down again. I promised umma and appa that I’d take care of you two and I’m not one to break my promise. Now go get Changmin to stop packing. I’m sure with your convincing skills you can get him to change his mind. Give me Yoochun’s number so I can call him, too.” Jaejoong said, opening his phone again.
“We’re heeere!” A sudden cheery voice rang out into the room as Jaejoong whipped around to see an overly ecstatic Yoochun followed by a mildly grumpy Yunho.
“What - ” Jaejoong wanted to speak. Yet, he couldn’t. What the hell was going on here?!
“Ahha…sorry hyung, but…I guess I just assumed you’d say yes with my convincing so I told Yoochun it was okay for him and Yunho to come over and help us pack…?” Junsu said, nervously, as he immediately dashed over to Yoochun in case his hyung were to explode and possibly fling him into the wall.
“I’m…sorry, Yoochun, but we just can’t accept your offer.” Jaejoong bowed his head a bit, feeling guilty for rejecting such a great offer, but he was desperate for Yoochun and Yunho to understand that he wanted to settle their own issues by himself. It was never courteous to allow himself to trouble other people for their charity. He always preferred to do things alone. His brothers relied on him and he just didn’t want their hopes on him to die just because they were going to live with two very stable bachelors people.
“Eh? Nonsense! We’d be glad to help you out! Besides, I’ve already told Junsu that you guys can pay for part of the expenses. That would make you feel less guilty right?” Yoochun asked, hoping for the man to agree. He had seen the way Junsu had suffered emotionally, and he knew how the cause of that was Jaejoong’s stubbornness. But if he were to tell Jaejoong that then surely that would break the latter’s heart by tenfold. “We’d really like to help and it’s getting kind of lonely. I mean, Yunho’s cool and all but sometimes his messiness just drives me up the wall and I just wanna strangle him, ha-ha - ”
Yunho sent Yoochun a warning glare as if to say you are not helping the situation, idiot.
“A-As I appreciate you for your generosity, I really do think that problems of our own should be solved by the people who are involved,” Jaejoong spoke; now trying to play the stern card. He didn’t want to be mean, but there was no other way to get Yoochun to back off. The man was persistent, and while it hurt Jaejoong to reject such a nice guy, it just had to be done. You gotta do what you gotta do.
“Yah! Hyung! Help me out here!” Yoochun exclaimed, punching Yunho hard on the arm. “Maybe Jaejoong will miraculously listen to you,” he hissed into the taller man’s ear, and gave him a shove towards Jaejoong and Junsu.
“Sheesh…”
Yunho? Convince me? Jaejoong thought, arching an eyebrow. Alright, this will be easier than I thought.
“You might as well come live with us since you can hardly support yourself and your two brothers anyway,” Yunho said with a shrug as he shoved his hands into his pockets casually. Jaejoong almost felt his palms sweat and pulse boil immediately. This was expected, so why did he suddenly feel surprised.
“What.”
“We all know how stubborn you are, but don’t you even think about your brothers for a second?”
“I DO think about them! Every time of the day! What I’m doing is for their future. It’s for our future. Don’t even think for a second that I’m some selfish scumbag because their unhappiness is the least of what I want for them.” Jaejoong knew he was letting his temper and emotion control his actions, but he was always an emotional person to begin with.
“Please.” A calm, yet irritatingly, mocking scoff. “Happiness? You must’ve missed the agonizing look in Changmin’s eyes. Most of the time Junsu’s working his shifts with Chun, he’s always moping around about how he’s constantly worrying about you; saving money just to help you. What do you do? You call yourself a good brother but if you were, you’d see deeper, wouldn’t you? You would’ve caught on that they were sneaking around with their jobs and you sure as hell wouldn’t have missed the look of sadness and hurt in their eyes every time you saw them right?”
At this point Jaejoong would have given Yunho a piece of his mind. Hell he could’ve slapped him across the face and beat him with a frying pan all he wanted but he couldn’t deny the fact that this bastard was right.
Moments ago Junsu was begging for him to agree to the proposition and he didn’t even think once about what it was like to be in Junsu’s shoes - to be forced to sit there and watch the situation get worse and worse. He didn’t realize how Changmin and Junsu’s expression were duller compared to the times before when his brothers would always look up to him for anything with a smile. He missed those smiles that showed no suspicion of awkwardness or sadness. Heck, Changmin was suddenly becoming more ill tempered and violent. He had suspicions of it, but he was probably too engrossed with the establishment of their future business. Had he been too occupied with his dreams?
“What you are doing now is selfish. They’re desperately asking for your help and you chose to ignore them and be the stubborn person you are. You try to play hero by taking the burden head on on your shoulders but you’re also bringing Min and Su with you. Don’t you realize that yet? I figured a grown man in college like you would have the sensibility to see that sort of common sense. You preach to me about not caring about anyone by myself and the laws of common courtesy when you can’t even do the same for your own loved ones.”
Jaejoong’s head and body was about to burst out of anger, fear, hatred, pain, all wrapped into one tight compact bundle. Yunho’s words struck him cold with shame. He would never admit to Yunho straight up that he was right. He was always stubborn and that was how it was going to be, but he suppose he could change a bit. No, not could. He must. Jaejoong had to set things right.
“You’re not touching a piece of the savings in your restaurant, by the way.” Yoochun suddenly spoke up as he already felt the awkward tension. Plus, he had seen Jaejoong’s skin suddenly shudder and he didn’t want to know if it was out of anger but he wasn’t stupid to the fact that Yunho had indeed, struck a nerve. “You won’t have to worry about Junsu working with me and I’m sure Yunho’s taking really good care of Changmin.”
Jaejoong continued to stay silent, as it appeared as if he was looking down at the floor in shame. He was in a way, but at the same time, he was deep in thought. There was also no way he could actually look at Yunho and face him literally, especially after the fool the man had just made him to be. He thought it over once more in his head, before he decided to pop the question.
“Junsu…”
“Y-Yes, hyung?” Junsu’s quivering voice asked, and Jaejoong could hear the nervousness in his voice.
Is he that afraid of me? Jaejoong thought, his heart wrenching even further at the sight.
“Do you…like…working with Yoochun? Is he good to you?”
Yoochun’s expression faltered, feeling a little insulted that Jaejoong didn’t believe him when he said he was a good employer. Ah well. It was a hyung’s insecurity. It was understandable.
“Yes! Very much! Yoochun is very good to me, and I enjoy helping him take care of the patients. He treats everyone respectfully, and hyung, I really like what I do. You wouldn’t believe how great it feels, changing someone’s life…” Junsu had ended up rambling on and on, and Jaejoong fought every urge to chuckle.
Does Su know how adorable he looks when he suddenly acts like nobody else exists in this room? He’s practically thrown into a world of his own. It’s been such a long time since I’ve seen him this happy.
Right at that moment, Changmin had decided to come out from the narrow hallway for a bottle of water, and he froze almost immediately when he saw that Yoochun and Yunho had finally arrived.
“Hyung!” He chirped happily, running over to Yunho, giving him a poke on the arm. Yoochun gaped at the younger boy, again, feeling oh so down at the lack of attention he was getting. He didn’t understand.
Why did everyone like him when he was so arrogant and hot headed?! Yoochun thought with an inward cry.
Jaejoong sighed. Well, Changmin was a pretty hard cookie to crack. If even a doofas like Yunho could get Min to like him, then he supposed Changmin loved his job as well. Earning the boy’s respect wasn’t an easy task after all.
At that point, it seemed like everyone was silent, nervously watching Jaejoong, and waiting for his approval. Jaejoong actually wanted to say yes but pride was eating away at him and he shifted from one foot to another in thought of what to say or do that will actually let them know that he approved.
“Well…I’ll just,” He spoke softly, looking anywhere but the eyes that were staring at him. “Go and pack then…”
TBC…
A/N: My muses came to me at such a crappy ass hour but I hoped this update was worth it. I've been working for too long and I guess a part of me wanted to write that stress out? Lol.
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