In the right place
Title: In the right place
Prompt: #170
For: jjagiya @ tumblr
Pairing: TaeKey, side JongYu
Author: >anonymous until reveals<
Word count: 5149
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: cursing
Summary: It all began when his mom started getting worried over the fact Kibum might die alone with no one to love. Her friends were basically the problem. Somehow they enforced this thinking into his mom's mind that at the age of 26 a person should already be settled and with a family to cater. Since then, it became kind of a habit for his mom to call every now and then to see if he still has a partner or not. It frustrated him to no end which eventually made him decide on lying a bit, but he definitely didn't see this coming.
With no boyfriend to take back home, Kibum searches eagerly for one. He almost surrenders until a blonde haired boy decided to help him and he’s never been this grateful.
>><<
“Honey you know I'm being like this because I love you! I just wanna know if I can meet your partner one day. With the way you talked about him I'm pretty sure he's a good lad" Kibum hears his mom say on the phone and he cringes his face wondering how he got into this mess.
It all began when his mom started getting worried over the fact Kibum might die alone with no one to love. Her friends were basically the problem. Somehow they enforced this thinking into his mom's mind that at the age of 26 a person should already be settled and with a family to cater. Since then it became kind of a habit for his mom to call every now and then to see if he still has a partner or not. It frustrated him to no end which eventually made him decide on lying a bit but he definitely didn't see this coming.
"Mom I can't tag him along this week he's a very busy person" I say with a sigh delivered to the person on the other side of the phone.
"I'm getting quite suspicious here Kibum-ah! You've been telling me this for almost a month now. He can't be that busy of a person! The least he could do is make time for us" his mom doesn't seem to believe his antics anymore and that terrified him a bit. If his mom ever found out how all of this was a lie, he might not be able to talk to her for a while as she hates it when people lie.
He sighs for the umpteenth time and looks desperately at the figure lying on the couch looking straight at him with a concerned expression.
"Okay mom I'll bring him to dinner" I find myself saying with a tired voice pretty much because of this messed up situation. After a huge squeal and a dozens of incoherent sentences his mom finally calms down. With a small goodbye and see you on Saturday his mom hangs up and Kibum felt like shit.
"From what I heard you're apparently bringing home your imaginary boyfriend. Interesting" a voice mutters that belonged to no one but my annoying ass friend Jonghyun.
"Well fuck. I'm doomed" with a groan I sprawl on the inhabited couch and lay on top of my now suffocating friend.
"Yah move! I can't breathe" Jonghyun pushes me of him successfully making me fall on the carpeted floor.
"Jonghyun I'm in deep shit you don't even understand"
"I actually do understand. I've known you since birth which basically means I know your mom very well. You remember that time she made me stand on top of that bench outside your house for breaking the vase she loved and blaming it on the dog. Your mom made me wear that ugly ass costume and I stood there for hours" Jonghyun shudders at the memory.
"More like 30 minutes. You started crying 2 minutes into the punishment" the memory made me loosen up a bit as I laugh my distress away remembering how ugly Jonghyun looked that evening.
"So what are you going to do?" Jonghyun questions
.
"Obviously I need to find a boyfriend" I look at my phone screen "Its Wednesday I still have 3 more days to find me a suitable partner and that’s a very short period of time" I look at my friend solemnly.
"Your parents know me too well so I can't do it. Nevertheless, I don't think Jinki would be happy about his boyfriend pretending to be someone else's boyfriend" Jonghyun looked as sad for not being any much of help.
"How about Minho? he's perfect" Jonghyun states.
"Minho is already dating that bitch I hate. What was her name again?" I try to remember that girl's name.
"Chorong, and yeah she's a bitch. He'll soon find out how much of a cockwhore she is" Jonghyun laughs.
"How about Kai? I think he's single" he continues.
"Nah too young"
"What about that guy from the coffee shop two blocks away. He always looks at you"
"Nope too tall and lanky"
"Ugh Kibum you're such a pain in the ass I don't wanna help you anymore" Jonghyun lies back at the couch with a sigh. At that moment a rustle could be heard at the apartment's door.
"Jinki's finally here!" Jonghyun splutters up and dashes for the front door. I roll my eyes at him and unlock my phone to distract myself from my misery.
I finally look at the three figures standing in the kitchen who seem to be in such a deep and exciting talk as the laughs and shouts emitted every now and then are not enough to prove the point. Blonde hair stands out between the dark coloured hair both Jinki and Jonghyun had, and I figure it was Jinki's brother Taemin. I stand up and head to where they all stood, curious as to what they were chatting about.
"Hey Key didn't see you there" Jinki high fives and smiles widely.
"After all your eyes are only fixated on this midget here" I groan in pain from the punch Jonghyun just gave me.
"He's my midget" Jinki says and Jonghyun pretends to be all shy and embarrassed. He then kisses him full on with tongues and all.
I fake gagging noises at the gross affection they showed. Taemin otherwise, seemed to be happy seeing his brother enjoying a healthy relationship. I pull him aside and we chat for a bit.
Few minutes later my phone rings and I see my mom's caller ID.
"Yes mom"
"Baby we're having the dinner on Friday. We got invited to this party on Saturday and it's very important. I hope he's free on Friday" I hear my mom say and I groan in despair.
"Okay mom. I'll bring him on Friday"
"Good. I'll see you then baby" his mom hangs up for the second time that day.
"Who was that" I look up and see Taemin looking at me with concern.
"You don't look good" He continues.
"It's nothing really" I answer tired.
"It's more like the worst thing to ever happen to you don't lie" Jonghyun says from the other side of the kitchen.
I look up and see both Taemin and Jinki worried expressions.
"Okay so my mom has been pestering me about getting a boyfriend for the last 3 months, and well I kinda lied and told her I had a boyfriend which obviously I don't. So for the last month she's been wanting to meet this boyfriend of mine, and she finally agreed on a day which is this Friday. Two days from now" I sit down exasperated from the whole situation.
"And since he doesn't have a boyfriend he needs to find one as soon as possible" Jonghyun continues on behalf of me.
I look up at the three sad creatures towering over me.
“How about Tao? The guy I work with in the café 2 blocks from here. He wanted to get in your pants since day one” Taemin says next to me.
“That was one of my suggestion too, but this guy over here doesn’t like him because he’s too lanky and tall” Jonghyun rolls his eyes.
“I know this guy at my work who’s bi and single. He might be of a little help” Jinki adds.
“How does he look like?” I question.
“Do you think a guy’s appearance is important here!!!” Jonghyun almost shouted.
“Well my mom knows me better than anyone, and I don’t think she’ll believe me if I bring someone who can’t dress for heaven’s sake!” Jonghyun finally shuts up.
“I actually have a picture with him when our team went to an MT in Busan” Jinki fishes out his phone and searches through his gallery.
All curious eyes were looking at Jinki eagerly. “Here you go” He hands me his phone once he found the guy’s pic. I see Jonghyun’s face fall a bit, but I ignore as soon as I see the beautiful creature smiling widely at the camera holding closely what seemed like a happy Jinki.
I looked up at Jinki and gave him a thumbs up. “He’s PERFECT” I almost squeak from utter excitement.
“Yup he is very handsome. So do you want me to set this... thing with him up?”
“Yes! and I hope he agrees”
“He will don’t worry. He’s a nice guy” Jinki affirms.
“Good. Now I just need to meet him and build up a story on how we met” I look at Jinki satisfied.
“Thank you hyung. I owe you big time” I give him a small hug and a pat. I then whisper in his ears “Now go and talk to Jonghyun. He seems dejected”
Jinki looks at me and then back at Jonghyun who retreated to the comfy sofa. I usher him to go and he complies.
“I need to leave now. My shift starts in 20 minutes” Taemin announces.
“I’ll come with you. I seriously need a coffee, this afternoon was very draining” I take my bag from the small table next to the sofa and look at the two guys who seem to be in their own world.
I smile up at Taemin and take a last glance at myself in the large mirror hammered to the wall next to the apartment’s door. I take my keys and we finally head outside. The 10-minute walk to the café was spent with us talking. Taemin told me how university was taking a toll on him and in return I complained on how work never seemed to end. As soon as we entered the café the sweet aroma of coffee took over my senses along with the sickly sweet smell of cooking cupcakes and crisping croissants.
“I love this place so much” I take in the smell and look happily at Taemin, who looked at me with his adorable, deep brown eyes.
“Me too. I need to get going now. Good luck with that handsome guy!” He waves excitedly and leaves to start his shift.
I head to the counter to order, and while at it the lanky guy that goes by the name of Tao came into my view.
“How are you today Kibum” He asks with a heavy accented Korean.
“I’m good! Now I need one Iced caramel macchiato and one blueberry muffin to go” I smiled politely at the young lad as I handed him the money.
“You can get your order from the next aisle. Thank you and come again” He winks and smiles slyly.
Once my order was finished I take it and head towards the door leaving the small café to my house.
~~~o~~~
Taemin woke up with a headache and the rattling of windows that kept on moving as if mocking his pain. He definitely knew this day won't end on a good note and he was kinda correct. He left his bed with a huff and walked the cold floor with nothing but his warm feet. He heard his mom calling for his father to hurry up at the same time he heard some shuffling as his dogs ran down the stairs most probably picking up the smell of their food. Taemin went to the bathroom and started with his morning routine. He heads back to his room and start dressing for the day. As soon as he finished he was met with one of the things he looked forward to every morning, his mother’s delicious and steamy food. He inhaled in the aroma and exhaled out a satisfied moan.
"Umma as expected. This looks extremely tasty" I say happily forgetting for a bit my splitting headache.
"Thank you baby. Come on sit let's eat together"
"Okay" I smile up at her and wait for her to start eating.
“By the way where is Jinki?” I look around not finding any trace of my older brother.
“He left early for work. Apparently he’s working on this important project with that handsome friend of his” My mom said.
“Oh, Nichkhun hyung”
“Yup that guy”
I finish my breakfast and stand up to start getting ready for the day.
“You have evening classes today right?” his mom asks.
“Yup...” I take my plate to the sink and kiss my mom a goodbye. “See you later”
The café he worked at had a new special drink to offer and people came in one after the other. Taemin couldn't even take his much required break. The day finally ended when he had to throw the last garbage bag and then change to his normal outfit.
"Hyung! I'm going now see ya later " Suho whose father owns the café turned his head to me and waved back with a smile.
"Oh okay. I'll see you tomorrow" I head out after I wave back. I suddenly fall back as I hit a solid object. I look up and see the tear streaked face of Kibum in front of me trying to help me up.
“Hey I’m sorry couldn’t see you there” I apologize and hold Kibum’s hand to stand up.
“What’s wrong? Did something happen?” I ask looking at his reddened face.
“I’m in deep shit” He says tears trekking down his beautiful face.
“let’s go to your house and talk it out. There are too many people here” Deciding on ditching classes, I put my hand on his shoulder to calm him down a bit. “Wait I can’t go there now. Jonghyun told me to stay away from the house for the next 2 hours”
I look at him puzzled until the pieces are put together and I smile shyly.
“My house it is” I try to hail a taxi but a small hand stops me.
“No I can’t your mom might get annoyed” I hear him say between sniffles.
“Don’t worry hyung. She’s usually not home this time around and my dad works until midnight”
I look at the fragile man in my arms and my heart tugs at the sight in front of me. I squeeze his shoulders a bit and he turns to look at me.
“Don’t think too much into it. Coming with me won’t be the end of the world, I just wanna know what’s wrong. Who knows I might be of a big help to what’s concerning you” I smile a bit and he smiles genuinely.
“Your house it is then” He mutters still sniffling and I chuckle at his cuteness.
10 minutes later, I fish out my keys and open the two-story house. A whoosh of silence greets us as we get rid of or shoes and slip in comfy slippers. I take his coat and place it in the cupboard next to the door along with my own coat.
“Is there anything you would like to have” I head to the kitchen looking back at the hunched figure sitting on the couch.
“Coffee would be nice. Thanks Taemin-ah”
“So what’s wrong? I don’t usually see you weeping. Scratch that I actually never saw you crying this hard!” I say while handing Kibum his coffee.
“Everything is wrong. You know that guy Jinki set me up with? We were supposed to meet in the coffee shop you work at, and well he ditched me on the last minute” the look Kibum had had broken my heart into pieces. His usual cheery face was glistened with dry tears and sorrow. I stretch my arm and hold him in for a semi hug. His voice hitches for a second and from how his shoulders shook I assumed he started crying. I pat his back while turning around completely to embrace him fully. Soon his shoulders stopped shaking and his tears dried out. I tighten my grip around his tiny waist and mutter a small I’m sorry to his neck. My action doesn’t go unnoticed as he shudders a bit after the small puff of hot hair hits his neck. He moves back a bit, and I loosen my hold on him. However, my eyes don’t leave his face. He finally looks up and smiles but without it reaching his eyes.
“Thank you again Taemin-ah. What would have I done without you” My heart skips a beat as he finally smiles his signature smile.
“I’m glad I could help hyung” I smile back at him.
We decide on watching a movie to ease the situation. “A Jim Carrey movie will always ease your heart” That’s what Kibum said before dashing to the TV cabinet and easily hauling out Yes Man from the many times we all gathered to watch a movie at my house.
We watched the movie in silence with small chuckles and giggles emitted every now and then while chomping down the caramel popcorn Kibum insisted on having. Somewhere during the part were Jim with his hospital gown kissed Zooey, I look at Kibum and see him totally engrossed in the movie his hand automatically moving in and out of the plate holding the popcorn. A sudden realisation hits me remembering the original reason to Kibum’s tears. Once the movie credits roll in the black screen Kibum sets the now empty plate on the coffee table and finally looks up suddenly aware of me staring at him.
“Is there something on my face?” Kibum asks his hand searching his face.
“No no there is nothing. It’s just that I have an idea”
“Care to share?”
“Since the dinner with your parents is tomorrow, I can be your part time boyfriend or whatever you want to name this” I fumble with my hands and wait for a response. After not hearing anything for a while I look up and see Kibum gaping at me. I chuckle at how cute he looked at that moment and he seemed to come out of the trance he was in.
“Are you sure?”
“Ye-” Kibum cuts me off with a bone crushing hug.
“Oh my god thank you so much Taemin-ah. I love you so much” We fall back together, my head hitting the sofa softly. Kibum finally removes his tight grip and kisses my forehead sweetly “You’re the best”.
I could feel heat crawling up my face and I thank god it’ll go unnoticed with how dimly lighted the lights were.
“We need to build a story. My mom will find a hitch in anything” Kibum says while looking directly at me.
“We could say both of us met after Jonghyun hyung and Jinki hyung introduced us to each other”
“That’s brilliant!”
I wake up at the annoying sound of my alarm. I shut it off immediately and try to pry my eyes open. With gruelling effort, I sit straight and yesterday’s events spontaneously plays in my head.
I look at my phone and see two miss calls both from my mom. I decide on calling her after finishing up with my morning routine.
“Mom, why did you call?” I say while pouring a cup of milk for myself.
“I just wanted to tell you that dinner starts at 7pm. So try to come at least 1 hour earlier”
“Don’t worry mom I’ll be there 6pm on the dot”
“Drive safely and be careful. I love you”
“Love you too” I sit down at the kitchen table next to the sleepy figure and set down two plates of scrambled eggs and bacon.
“You know something. Next time you decide on fucking Jinki can you please not leave your fucking clothes all over the apartment. I almost got a heart attack thinking a burglar entered our house when I reached home yesterday night”
“Sorry for scaring you princess. I can’t help it though I involuntarily remove my clothes whenever Jinki touches me it’s a given”
“Oh god shut up. Just try to remove everything the next time”
“So what happened with Nickkhun?”
I end up telling Jonghyun and later on Jinki, who joins us after a small good morning and a sloppy kiss to Jonghyun’s cheek, the whole story. I look at both of their surprised expression and then something flashes over Jinki’s eyes.
“Okay so your “Imaginary boyfriend” is my little brother Taemin?” Jinki says air quoting his words.
“I know you don’t like the idea but believe me I will not do anything he doesn’t agree to”
“Don’t worry hyung, Kibum here is one of the nicest people I know. He will never hurt Taemin. Ever” Jonghyun butts in and holds Jinki’s hand softly.
“Okay but if anything happens to my baby brother I will be very angry”
With that being said, Jinki kissed Jonghyun and told him he’s leaving for work. I gaze at his retreating figure after saying a small goodbye and look at Jonghyun with a shudder.
“Who knew he could be this scary”
“He becomes someone else whenever someone ever thinks of harming the people he loves”
Ding dong
“Jonghyun! Open the door!” I shout from where I stood in front of the mirror hung in my room.
“Okay” I hear a shuffle and then Taemin’s cheerful voice with Jonghyun’s soft one.
I continue applying on makeup until I hear a soft knock on my wide open door. I turn around and find Taemin leaning on the door with a smile.
“You look good” I say as I put down my eyeliner.
“The same goes to you” He comes a bit closer and sits on my bed.
“So are you ready?” I ask feeling a bit awkward.
“I think so. What about you?”
“I think I’m ready too” I look at his reflected self on the mirror.
“Come here for sec” I say motioning for him to come near. He stands up and positions himself in front of me.
“I’ll apply some makeup on since you know mom might get suspicious and all” I wince inside. Liar. ‘You just wanna see him with eyeliner on’
“Okay” the motive goes unnoticed by the ever so innocent boy.
With a bit of bb cream, navy eye shadow that goes well with his outfit and eyeliner I complete his look. He opens his eyes and looks at his reflection and then back at me. My heart jolts for a sec but I push it aside to focus on the beauty that is Taemin.
“Now I can say you look perfect” I say still looking a bit astonished.
“Thanks hyung. I love it!” Taemin looks at himself once again.
30 minutes later we were heading to my car, my handbag in a hand and Comme des in the other, while Taemin was holding Garçons with both hands. I cringe at the sight thinking of how real it looked for a second.
The almost 3 hours ride to Daegu was spent with us talking, laughing, listening to music and sleeping more of Taemin’s side that is. Once we reached Daegu and my parents’ house, I shake Taemin’s shoulders to wake him up from his slumber. I look back and find Comme des and Garçons sleeping peacefully as well. I chuckle at the scene and get down from the car as Taemin opens his door to finally stand up after 3 hours.
“Son!” I hear the too familiar voice at the front door of the two-story house.
“How is my favourite son doing” She hugs me tightly.
“I’m your only child mom”
“So care to introduce us?”
“let’s get inside first Huijeong-ah” Kibum’s dad calls from the house’s doorstep.
“Oh yes where are my manners come inside darling”
Everything could have gone great if only his mom did not embarrass him in front of his so called boyfriend. Kibum face palmed throughout the whole evening at all the stories his mom seemed to remember from his dark past.
However, Dinner actually went on great. His parents loved Taemin and from how Taemin almost beamed whenever his dad talked the feeling was definitely mutual. He exhaled a tired sigh and shortly after he felt Taemin’s small hand rest on his knee hidden beneath the table and from the outer world. Kibum looks up and saw Taemin’s worried expression.
‘Are you fine?’ he mouths.
‘I’m perfect’ I answer back. That moment almost felt surreal. He could not decipher Taemin’s look neither could he explain the tiny jolts his heart made whenever Taemin did basically anything. He nearly caught himself thinking what if all of this was real? He shook his head slightly and effortlessly blended in whatever topic his parents engaged Taemin with. After inhaling whatever Kibum’s mom made for dinner, she decided it’s time for me to show Taemin my old bedroom.
“I’ll first help you then show Taemin around, how about that?”
“Nope. Go and show him around you’ll leave soon after all” His mom said while pushing him and Taemin towards the stairs.
Kibum’s room felt like any regular teenager’s room; however, with all the posters of countries, bands etc. it almost gave of the feeling of wishful dreams and silent hope. He looked around curiously scanning whatever his eyes fell on.
“It’s been so long since someone other than Jonghyun entered my room” Kibum says sitting comfortably on his bed.
I hum softly and sit down next to him with an audible huff. He lays back and mutters “Come here for a sec”
I lean back upon his request and lay down next to him. I look at him interestedly and he raises his arm up pointing at the ceiling of his room. He suddenly closes the lights and I take in a deep breath.
“This is so beautiful” I nearly choke on my own spit with how hard I sucked on my breath.
“I know right. This over here what made me stand up to all the pain I had to endure in the past. Coming back every night with either a black eye or a gruelling pain somewhere in my body this made me calm and somehow more resilient to all that. These constellations where put up using this small box which was made by my uncle. He was such an amazing artist and I’ve never been more grateful”
My eyes fall on Kibum’s pretty face illuminated by the box next him. Somehow his face was more interesting than the constellations on his ceiling. He looked peaceful and just beautiful and Taemin tried his best to not caress his face.
“I don’t know what happened in your past, but whatever it was this Kibum who’s laying right beside me wouldn’t have been as carefree or as strong” Kibum looked at me and gazes softly.
“The way you carry yourself is just so charming, and I can’t help but notice every bit of it. I wonder if this Kibum wouldn’t be here if your past was just as peaceful” I continue, looking directly into Kibum’s dark orbs. A small grin grazes his face and so did I unconsciously.
“I guess you are right”
I gather up the tiny bit of courage I have left and finally caress his face.
“I really hope whatever has annoyed you in the past doesn’t affect you anymore. Seeing your tearstained face that day vexed me to no end. I just hope I never see you crying again” I close my eyes and lean my forehead to his. He seemed to be taken aback by the gestures but follows nonetheless.
“Thank you Taemin. I seriously couldn’t have done this without you” my heart skips a beat as s small puff of air jostles my lips. I open my eyes to find Kibum’s serious ones completely focused on me.
“I hope I don’t regret doing this” Kibum says before smashing his lips into mine. The feeling of smooth lips into my own chapped ones went as fast as it came. I freeze for what felt like hours on my spot to finally look at Kibum and touch my lips simultaneously. I finally get my senses back.
“I hope I don’t regret doing this either” is what I say before grabbing Kibum’s neck softly and smacking my own chapped and plump lips to his soft and thin lips. It started of slowly with both of our lips moving together in harmony clicking together as if they meant to be. I felt his hands circling my waist as I move in a bit closer to deepen the kiss. A moan escapes my mouth unexpectedly which in turn caused Kibum to moan albeit nibbling on my bottom lip. His wet tongue brushes over my bottom lip and I eagerly open my mouth to let in the foreign object. Kibum ushers me to lay on top of him and I comply immediately.
--
The kiss was everything but bad, nothing felt as complete as to when Kibum kissed Taemin. Kibum’s action surged a whole new feeling that have been kept hidden for the past year that they knew each other. It felt surreal yet completely realistic, with how much feelings that one kiss carried, Kibum could not handle it anymore and he pulled away to catch his breath. He places his sweat stained forehead onto Taemin’s as both of them struggle to catch their breaths.
“Does this make us something?” Taemin asks all of a sudden breaking the silence surrounding them.
“If that’s what you want”
“I really want us to be more than a fake couple just so you get to please your parents” I hear Taemin saying.
“I would love to be your real boyfriend if that’s what you mean” I laugh a bit at the situation.
Taemin laughs accordingly and then looks at me.
“After this kiss I could say that I Lee Taemin has for sure fallen head over heels for his friend Kibum so would you like to be my boyfriend?” Taemin says inching closer if that’s even possible with how close they already were.
“And I Kim Kibum officially declares his infatuation to Lee Taemin and yes I would love to be your boyfriend” I close the small gap between us with another breath-taking kiss, but before it got heated his mom suddenly knocked on the door. ‘What a perfect time’ I mutter under my breath.
“Baby it’s getting late are you leaving or will you stay tonight?” I look at Taemin waiting for his confirmation. He nods, his blonde hair shaking at the action, and I smile at how cute he is.
“We’ll stay mom and leave early in the morning” I say to the figure standing behind the closed door. With a small okay and a goodnight his mom’s retreating footsteps could be heard until silence has engulfed them again.
“So where were we?” I mutter looking at his lustful eyes.
“In the right place I guess” And with that being said Taemin finally inched closer and they kissed for the 3rd time that night and counting.
Prompt: #170
For: jjagiya @ tumblr
Pairing: TaeKey, side JongYu
Author: >anonymous until reveals<
Word count: 5149
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: cursing
Summary: It all began when his mom started getting worried over the fact Kibum might die alone with no one to love. Her friends were basically the problem. Somehow they enforced this thinking into his mom's mind that at the age of 26 a person should already be settled and with a family to cater. Since then, it became kind of a habit for his mom to call every now and then to see if he still has a partner or not. It frustrated him to no end which eventually made him decide on lying a bit, but he definitely didn't see this coming.
With no boyfriend to take back home, Kibum searches eagerly for one. He almost surrenders until a blonde haired boy decided to help him and he’s never been this grateful.
>><<
“Honey you know I'm being like this because I love you! I just wanna know if I can meet your partner one day. With the way you talked about him I'm pretty sure he's a good lad" Kibum hears his mom say on the phone and he cringes his face wondering how he got into this mess.
It all began when his mom started getting worried over the fact Kibum might die alone with no one to love. Her friends were basically the problem. Somehow they enforced this thinking into his mom's mind that at the age of 26 a person should already be settled and with a family to cater. Since then it became kind of a habit for his mom to call every now and then to see if he still has a partner or not. It frustrated him to no end which eventually made him decide on lying a bit but he definitely didn't see this coming.
"Mom I can't tag him along this week he's a very busy person" I say with a sigh delivered to the person on the other side of the phone.
"I'm getting quite suspicious here Kibum-ah! You've been telling me this for almost a month now. He can't be that busy of a person! The least he could do is make time for us" his mom doesn't seem to believe his antics anymore and that terrified him a bit. If his mom ever found out how all of this was a lie, he might not be able to talk to her for a while as she hates it when people lie.
He sighs for the umpteenth time and looks desperately at the figure lying on the couch looking straight at him with a concerned expression.
"Okay mom I'll bring him to dinner" I find myself saying with a tired voice pretty much because of this messed up situation. After a huge squeal and a dozens of incoherent sentences his mom finally calms down. With a small goodbye and see you on Saturday his mom hangs up and Kibum felt like shit.
"From what I heard you're apparently bringing home your imaginary boyfriend. Interesting" a voice mutters that belonged to no one but my annoying ass friend Jonghyun.
"Well fuck. I'm doomed" with a groan I sprawl on the inhabited couch and lay on top of my now suffocating friend.
"Yah move! I can't breathe" Jonghyun pushes me of him successfully making me fall on the carpeted floor.
"Jonghyun I'm in deep shit you don't even understand"
"I actually do understand. I've known you since birth which basically means I know your mom very well. You remember that time she made me stand on top of that bench outside your house for breaking the vase she loved and blaming it on the dog. Your mom made me wear that ugly ass costume and I stood there for hours" Jonghyun shudders at the memory.
"More like 30 minutes. You started crying 2 minutes into the punishment" the memory made me loosen up a bit as I laugh my distress away remembering how ugly Jonghyun looked that evening.
"So what are you going to do?" Jonghyun questions
.
"Obviously I need to find a boyfriend" I look at my phone screen "Its Wednesday I still have 3 more days to find me a suitable partner and that’s a very short period of time" I look at my friend solemnly.
"Your parents know me too well so I can't do it. Nevertheless, I don't think Jinki would be happy about his boyfriend pretending to be someone else's boyfriend" Jonghyun looked as sad for not being any much of help.
"How about Minho? he's perfect" Jonghyun states.
"Minho is already dating that bitch I hate. What was her name again?" I try to remember that girl's name.
"Chorong, and yeah she's a bitch. He'll soon find out how much of a cockwhore she is" Jonghyun laughs.
"How about Kai? I think he's single" he continues.
"Nah too young"
"What about that guy from the coffee shop two blocks away. He always looks at you"
"Nope too tall and lanky"
"Ugh Kibum you're such a pain in the ass I don't wanna help you anymore" Jonghyun lies back at the couch with a sigh. At that moment a rustle could be heard at the apartment's door.
"Jinki's finally here!" Jonghyun splutters up and dashes for the front door. I roll my eyes at him and unlock my phone to distract myself from my misery.
I finally look at the three figures standing in the kitchen who seem to be in such a deep and exciting talk as the laughs and shouts emitted every now and then are not enough to prove the point. Blonde hair stands out between the dark coloured hair both Jinki and Jonghyun had, and I figure it was Jinki's brother Taemin. I stand up and head to where they all stood, curious as to what they were chatting about.
"Hey Key didn't see you there" Jinki high fives and smiles widely.
"After all your eyes are only fixated on this midget here" I groan in pain from the punch Jonghyun just gave me.
"He's my midget" Jinki says and Jonghyun pretends to be all shy and embarrassed. He then kisses him full on with tongues and all.
I fake gagging noises at the gross affection they showed. Taemin otherwise, seemed to be happy seeing his brother enjoying a healthy relationship. I pull him aside and we chat for a bit.
Few minutes later my phone rings and I see my mom's caller ID.
"Yes mom"
"Baby we're having the dinner on Friday. We got invited to this party on Saturday and it's very important. I hope he's free on Friday" I hear my mom say and I groan in despair.
"Okay mom. I'll bring him on Friday"
"Good. I'll see you then baby" his mom hangs up for the second time that day.
"Who was that" I look up and see Taemin looking at me with concern.
"You don't look good" He continues.
"It's nothing really" I answer tired.
"It's more like the worst thing to ever happen to you don't lie" Jonghyun says from the other side of the kitchen.
I look up and see both Taemin and Jinki worried expressions.
"Okay so my mom has been pestering me about getting a boyfriend for the last 3 months, and well I kinda lied and told her I had a boyfriend which obviously I don't. So for the last month she's been wanting to meet this boyfriend of mine, and she finally agreed on a day which is this Friday. Two days from now" I sit down exasperated from the whole situation.
"And since he doesn't have a boyfriend he needs to find one as soon as possible" Jonghyun continues on behalf of me.
I look up at the three sad creatures towering over me.
“How about Tao? The guy I work with in the café 2 blocks from here. He wanted to get in your pants since day one” Taemin says next to me.
“That was one of my suggestion too, but this guy over here doesn’t like him because he’s too lanky and tall” Jonghyun rolls his eyes.
“I know this guy at my work who’s bi and single. He might be of a little help” Jinki adds.
“How does he look like?” I question.
“Do you think a guy’s appearance is important here!!!” Jonghyun almost shouted.
“Well my mom knows me better than anyone, and I don’t think she’ll believe me if I bring someone who can’t dress for heaven’s sake!” Jonghyun finally shuts up.
“I actually have a picture with him when our team went to an MT in Busan” Jinki fishes out his phone and searches through his gallery.
All curious eyes were looking at Jinki eagerly. “Here you go” He hands me his phone once he found the guy’s pic. I see Jonghyun’s face fall a bit, but I ignore as soon as I see the beautiful creature smiling widely at the camera holding closely what seemed like a happy Jinki.
I looked up at Jinki and gave him a thumbs up. “He’s PERFECT” I almost squeak from utter excitement.
“Yup he is very handsome. So do you want me to set this... thing with him up?”
“Yes! and I hope he agrees”
“He will don’t worry. He’s a nice guy” Jinki affirms.
“Good. Now I just need to meet him and build up a story on how we met” I look at Jinki satisfied.
“Thank you hyung. I owe you big time” I give him a small hug and a pat. I then whisper in his ears “Now go and talk to Jonghyun. He seems dejected”
Jinki looks at me and then back at Jonghyun who retreated to the comfy sofa. I usher him to go and he complies.
“I need to leave now. My shift starts in 20 minutes” Taemin announces.
“I’ll come with you. I seriously need a coffee, this afternoon was very draining” I take my bag from the small table next to the sofa and look at the two guys who seem to be in their own world.
I smile up at Taemin and take a last glance at myself in the large mirror hammered to the wall next to the apartment’s door. I take my keys and we finally head outside. The 10-minute walk to the café was spent with us talking. Taemin told me how university was taking a toll on him and in return I complained on how work never seemed to end. As soon as we entered the café the sweet aroma of coffee took over my senses along with the sickly sweet smell of cooking cupcakes and crisping croissants.
“I love this place so much” I take in the smell and look happily at Taemin, who looked at me with his adorable, deep brown eyes.
“Me too. I need to get going now. Good luck with that handsome guy!” He waves excitedly and leaves to start his shift.
I head to the counter to order, and while at it the lanky guy that goes by the name of Tao came into my view.
“How are you today Kibum” He asks with a heavy accented Korean.
“I’m good! Now I need one Iced caramel macchiato and one blueberry muffin to go” I smiled politely at the young lad as I handed him the money.
“You can get your order from the next aisle. Thank you and come again” He winks and smiles slyly.
Once my order was finished I take it and head towards the door leaving the small café to my house.
~~~o~~~
Taemin woke up with a headache and the rattling of windows that kept on moving as if mocking his pain. He definitely knew this day won't end on a good note and he was kinda correct. He left his bed with a huff and walked the cold floor with nothing but his warm feet. He heard his mom calling for his father to hurry up at the same time he heard some shuffling as his dogs ran down the stairs most probably picking up the smell of their food. Taemin went to the bathroom and started with his morning routine. He heads back to his room and start dressing for the day. As soon as he finished he was met with one of the things he looked forward to every morning, his mother’s delicious and steamy food. He inhaled in the aroma and exhaled out a satisfied moan.
"Umma as expected. This looks extremely tasty" I say happily forgetting for a bit my splitting headache.
"Thank you baby. Come on sit let's eat together"
"Okay" I smile up at her and wait for her to start eating.
“By the way where is Jinki?” I look around not finding any trace of my older brother.
“He left early for work. Apparently he’s working on this important project with that handsome friend of his” My mom said.
“Oh, Nichkhun hyung”
“Yup that guy”
I finish my breakfast and stand up to start getting ready for the day.
“You have evening classes today right?” his mom asks.
“Yup...” I take my plate to the sink and kiss my mom a goodbye. “See you later”
The café he worked at had a new special drink to offer and people came in one after the other. Taemin couldn't even take his much required break. The day finally ended when he had to throw the last garbage bag and then change to his normal outfit.
"Hyung! I'm going now see ya later " Suho whose father owns the café turned his head to me and waved back with a smile.
"Oh okay. I'll see you tomorrow" I head out after I wave back. I suddenly fall back as I hit a solid object. I look up and see the tear streaked face of Kibum in front of me trying to help me up.
“Hey I’m sorry couldn’t see you there” I apologize and hold Kibum’s hand to stand up.
“What’s wrong? Did something happen?” I ask looking at his reddened face.
“I’m in deep shit” He says tears trekking down his beautiful face.
“let’s go to your house and talk it out. There are too many people here” Deciding on ditching classes, I put my hand on his shoulder to calm him down a bit. “Wait I can’t go there now. Jonghyun told me to stay away from the house for the next 2 hours”
I look at him puzzled until the pieces are put together and I smile shyly.
“My house it is” I try to hail a taxi but a small hand stops me.
“No I can’t your mom might get annoyed” I hear him say between sniffles.
“Don’t worry hyung. She’s usually not home this time around and my dad works until midnight”
I look at the fragile man in my arms and my heart tugs at the sight in front of me. I squeeze his shoulders a bit and he turns to look at me.
“Don’t think too much into it. Coming with me won’t be the end of the world, I just wanna know what’s wrong. Who knows I might be of a big help to what’s concerning you” I smile a bit and he smiles genuinely.
“Your house it is then” He mutters still sniffling and I chuckle at his cuteness.
10 minutes later, I fish out my keys and open the two-story house. A whoosh of silence greets us as we get rid of or shoes and slip in comfy slippers. I take his coat and place it in the cupboard next to the door along with my own coat.
“Is there anything you would like to have” I head to the kitchen looking back at the hunched figure sitting on the couch.
“Coffee would be nice. Thanks Taemin-ah”
“So what’s wrong? I don’t usually see you weeping. Scratch that I actually never saw you crying this hard!” I say while handing Kibum his coffee.
“Everything is wrong. You know that guy Jinki set me up with? We were supposed to meet in the coffee shop you work at, and well he ditched me on the last minute” the look Kibum had had broken my heart into pieces. His usual cheery face was glistened with dry tears and sorrow. I stretch my arm and hold him in for a semi hug. His voice hitches for a second and from how his shoulders shook I assumed he started crying. I pat his back while turning around completely to embrace him fully. Soon his shoulders stopped shaking and his tears dried out. I tighten my grip around his tiny waist and mutter a small I’m sorry to his neck. My action doesn’t go unnoticed as he shudders a bit after the small puff of hot hair hits his neck. He moves back a bit, and I loosen my hold on him. However, my eyes don’t leave his face. He finally looks up and smiles but without it reaching his eyes.
“Thank you again Taemin-ah. What would have I done without you” My heart skips a beat as he finally smiles his signature smile.
“I’m glad I could help hyung” I smile back at him.
We decide on watching a movie to ease the situation. “A Jim Carrey movie will always ease your heart” That’s what Kibum said before dashing to the TV cabinet and easily hauling out Yes Man from the many times we all gathered to watch a movie at my house.
We watched the movie in silence with small chuckles and giggles emitted every now and then while chomping down the caramel popcorn Kibum insisted on having. Somewhere during the part were Jim with his hospital gown kissed Zooey, I look at Kibum and see him totally engrossed in the movie his hand automatically moving in and out of the plate holding the popcorn. A sudden realisation hits me remembering the original reason to Kibum’s tears. Once the movie credits roll in the black screen Kibum sets the now empty plate on the coffee table and finally looks up suddenly aware of me staring at him.
“Is there something on my face?” Kibum asks his hand searching his face.
“No no there is nothing. It’s just that I have an idea”
“Care to share?”
“Since the dinner with your parents is tomorrow, I can be your part time boyfriend or whatever you want to name this” I fumble with my hands and wait for a response. After not hearing anything for a while I look up and see Kibum gaping at me. I chuckle at how cute he looked at that moment and he seemed to come out of the trance he was in.
“Are you sure?”
“Ye-” Kibum cuts me off with a bone crushing hug.
“Oh my god thank you so much Taemin-ah. I love you so much” We fall back together, my head hitting the sofa softly. Kibum finally removes his tight grip and kisses my forehead sweetly “You’re the best”.
I could feel heat crawling up my face and I thank god it’ll go unnoticed with how dimly lighted the lights were.
“We need to build a story. My mom will find a hitch in anything” Kibum says while looking directly at me.
“We could say both of us met after Jonghyun hyung and Jinki hyung introduced us to each other”
“That’s brilliant!”
I wake up at the annoying sound of my alarm. I shut it off immediately and try to pry my eyes open. With gruelling effort, I sit straight and yesterday’s events spontaneously plays in my head.
I look at my phone and see two miss calls both from my mom. I decide on calling her after finishing up with my morning routine.
“Mom, why did you call?” I say while pouring a cup of milk for myself.
“I just wanted to tell you that dinner starts at 7pm. So try to come at least 1 hour earlier”
“Don’t worry mom I’ll be there 6pm on the dot”
“Drive safely and be careful. I love you”
“Love you too” I sit down at the kitchen table next to the sleepy figure and set down two plates of scrambled eggs and bacon.
“You know something. Next time you decide on fucking Jinki can you please not leave your fucking clothes all over the apartment. I almost got a heart attack thinking a burglar entered our house when I reached home yesterday night”
“Sorry for scaring you princess. I can’t help it though I involuntarily remove my clothes whenever Jinki touches me it’s a given”
“Oh god shut up. Just try to remove everything the next time”
“So what happened with Nickkhun?”
I end up telling Jonghyun and later on Jinki, who joins us after a small good morning and a sloppy kiss to Jonghyun’s cheek, the whole story. I look at both of their surprised expression and then something flashes over Jinki’s eyes.
“Okay so your “Imaginary boyfriend” is my little brother Taemin?” Jinki says air quoting his words.
“I know you don’t like the idea but believe me I will not do anything he doesn’t agree to”
“Don’t worry hyung, Kibum here is one of the nicest people I know. He will never hurt Taemin. Ever” Jonghyun butts in and holds Jinki’s hand softly.
“Okay but if anything happens to my baby brother I will be very angry”
With that being said, Jinki kissed Jonghyun and told him he’s leaving for work. I gaze at his retreating figure after saying a small goodbye and look at Jonghyun with a shudder.
“Who knew he could be this scary”
“He becomes someone else whenever someone ever thinks of harming the people he loves”
Ding dong
“Jonghyun! Open the door!” I shout from where I stood in front of the mirror hung in my room.
“Okay” I hear a shuffle and then Taemin’s cheerful voice with Jonghyun’s soft one.
I continue applying on makeup until I hear a soft knock on my wide open door. I turn around and find Taemin leaning on the door with a smile.
“You look good” I say as I put down my eyeliner.
“The same goes to you” He comes a bit closer and sits on my bed.
“So are you ready?” I ask feeling a bit awkward.
“I think so. What about you?”
“I think I’m ready too” I look at his reflected self on the mirror.
“Come here for sec” I say motioning for him to come near. He stands up and positions himself in front of me.
“I’ll apply some makeup on since you know mom might get suspicious and all” I wince inside. Liar. ‘You just wanna see him with eyeliner on’
“Okay” the motive goes unnoticed by the ever so innocent boy.
With a bit of bb cream, navy eye shadow that goes well with his outfit and eyeliner I complete his look. He opens his eyes and looks at his reflection and then back at me. My heart jolts for a sec but I push it aside to focus on the beauty that is Taemin.
“Now I can say you look perfect” I say still looking a bit astonished.
“Thanks hyung. I love it!” Taemin looks at himself once again.
30 minutes later we were heading to my car, my handbag in a hand and Comme des in the other, while Taemin was holding Garçons with both hands. I cringe at the sight thinking of how real it looked for a second.
The almost 3 hours ride to Daegu was spent with us talking, laughing, listening to music and sleeping more of Taemin’s side that is. Once we reached Daegu and my parents’ house, I shake Taemin’s shoulders to wake him up from his slumber. I look back and find Comme des and Garçons sleeping peacefully as well. I chuckle at the scene and get down from the car as Taemin opens his door to finally stand up after 3 hours.
“Son!” I hear the too familiar voice at the front door of the two-story house.
“How is my favourite son doing” She hugs me tightly.
“I’m your only child mom”
“So care to introduce us?”
“let’s get inside first Huijeong-ah” Kibum’s dad calls from the house’s doorstep.
“Oh yes where are my manners come inside darling”
Everything could have gone great if only his mom did not embarrass him in front of his so called boyfriend. Kibum face palmed throughout the whole evening at all the stories his mom seemed to remember from his dark past.
However, Dinner actually went on great. His parents loved Taemin and from how Taemin almost beamed whenever his dad talked the feeling was definitely mutual. He exhaled a tired sigh and shortly after he felt Taemin’s small hand rest on his knee hidden beneath the table and from the outer world. Kibum looks up and saw Taemin’s worried expression.
‘Are you fine?’ he mouths.
‘I’m perfect’ I answer back. That moment almost felt surreal. He could not decipher Taemin’s look neither could he explain the tiny jolts his heart made whenever Taemin did basically anything. He nearly caught himself thinking what if all of this was real? He shook his head slightly and effortlessly blended in whatever topic his parents engaged Taemin with. After inhaling whatever Kibum’s mom made for dinner, she decided it’s time for me to show Taemin my old bedroom.
“I’ll first help you then show Taemin around, how about that?”
“Nope. Go and show him around you’ll leave soon after all” His mom said while pushing him and Taemin towards the stairs.
Kibum’s room felt like any regular teenager’s room; however, with all the posters of countries, bands etc. it almost gave of the feeling of wishful dreams and silent hope. He looked around curiously scanning whatever his eyes fell on.
“It’s been so long since someone other than Jonghyun entered my room” Kibum says sitting comfortably on his bed.
I hum softly and sit down next to him with an audible huff. He lays back and mutters “Come here for a sec”
I lean back upon his request and lay down next to him. I look at him interestedly and he raises his arm up pointing at the ceiling of his room. He suddenly closes the lights and I take in a deep breath.
“This is so beautiful” I nearly choke on my own spit with how hard I sucked on my breath.
“I know right. This over here what made me stand up to all the pain I had to endure in the past. Coming back every night with either a black eye or a gruelling pain somewhere in my body this made me calm and somehow more resilient to all that. These constellations where put up using this small box which was made by my uncle. He was such an amazing artist and I’ve never been more grateful”
My eyes fall on Kibum’s pretty face illuminated by the box next him. Somehow his face was more interesting than the constellations on his ceiling. He looked peaceful and just beautiful and Taemin tried his best to not caress his face.
“I don’t know what happened in your past, but whatever it was this Kibum who’s laying right beside me wouldn’t have been as carefree or as strong” Kibum looked at me and gazes softly.
“The way you carry yourself is just so charming, and I can’t help but notice every bit of it. I wonder if this Kibum wouldn’t be here if your past was just as peaceful” I continue, looking directly into Kibum’s dark orbs. A small grin grazes his face and so did I unconsciously.
“I guess you are right”
I gather up the tiny bit of courage I have left and finally caress his face.
“I really hope whatever has annoyed you in the past doesn’t affect you anymore. Seeing your tearstained face that day vexed me to no end. I just hope I never see you crying again” I close my eyes and lean my forehead to his. He seemed to be taken aback by the gestures but follows nonetheless.
“Thank you Taemin. I seriously couldn’t have done this without you” my heart skips a beat as s small puff of air jostles my lips. I open my eyes to find Kibum’s serious ones completely focused on me.
“I hope I don’t regret doing this” Kibum says before smashing his lips into mine. The feeling of smooth lips into my own chapped ones went as fast as it came. I freeze for what felt like hours on my spot to finally look at Kibum and touch my lips simultaneously. I finally get my senses back.
“I hope I don’t regret doing this either” is what I say before grabbing Kibum’s neck softly and smacking my own chapped and plump lips to his soft and thin lips. It started of slowly with both of our lips moving together in harmony clicking together as if they meant to be. I felt his hands circling my waist as I move in a bit closer to deepen the kiss. A moan escapes my mouth unexpectedly which in turn caused Kibum to moan albeit nibbling on my bottom lip. His wet tongue brushes over my bottom lip and I eagerly open my mouth to let in the foreign object. Kibum ushers me to lay on top of him and I comply immediately.
--
The kiss was everything but bad, nothing felt as complete as to when Kibum kissed Taemin. Kibum’s action surged a whole new feeling that have been kept hidden for the past year that they knew each other. It felt surreal yet completely realistic, with how much feelings that one kiss carried, Kibum could not handle it anymore and he pulled away to catch his breath. He places his sweat stained forehead onto Taemin’s as both of them struggle to catch their breaths.
“Does this make us something?” Taemin asks all of a sudden breaking the silence surrounding them.
“If that’s what you want”
“I really want us to be more than a fake couple just so you get to please your parents” I hear Taemin saying.
“I would love to be your real boyfriend if that’s what you mean” I laugh a bit at the situation.
Taemin laughs accordingly and then looks at me.
“After this kiss I could say that I Lee Taemin has for sure fallen head over heels for his friend Kibum so would you like to be my boyfriend?” Taemin says inching closer if that’s even possible with how close they already were.
“And I Kim Kibum officially declares his infatuation to Lee Taemin and yes I would love to be your boyfriend” I close the small gap between us with another breath-taking kiss, but before it got heated his mom suddenly knocked on the door. ‘What a perfect time’ I mutter under my breath.
“Baby it’s getting late are you leaving or will you stay tonight?” I look at Taemin waiting for his confirmation. He nods, his blonde hair shaking at the action, and I smile at how cute he is.
“We’ll stay mom and leave early in the morning” I say to the figure standing behind the closed door. With a small okay and a goodnight his mom’s retreating footsteps could be heard until silence has engulfed them again.
“So where were we?” I mutter looking at his lustful eyes.
“In the right place I guess” And with that being said Taemin finally inched closer and they kissed for the 3rd time that night and counting.