[One-shot] Distance 10cm
Title: Distance 10cm
Author: Sylchunnie
Pairing: Yunho X Jaejoong
Genre: Fluff, Romance, AU
Ratings: G
Length: One-shot
Summary: Sequel to Distance 20cm. Yunho went out to search for his long lost first love only to find the surprise of his life. Will the two lovers be united or will Yunho give up?
A/N: I encourage readers to read Distance 20cm first before reading this story.
distance 10cm
“Yunho!”
“Dude.”
The brunette stopped in his track, not bothered to turn around as he heard his friends’ voices. Jihoon, the school’s rugby captain and Yunho’s neighbour, came running towards him followed by another of his friend, a tall and lanky boy named Seojun.
Jihoon sling his arm around Yunho’s shoulder and leaned against him as he panted for breath. “Dude.”
Seojun then arrived and plastered himself against Jihoon, catching his breath. All in all, Yunho had to support the weight of both his two friends.
“Dude,” Seojun gasp out.
“Can you stop with the ‘dude’.” Shaking his head in amusement at his friend antics, he continued walking, dragging the two along in process.
Jihoon grinned toothily, and it always make him looked kind of like a shark, dangerous and feral. Probably the reason why girls loved him. He’s the ultimate bad boy. Or so he believes to be. “You’re going home already?”
“Dude, come on.” Seojun whined as Yunho nodded in confirmation. “We’re going to a blind date meeting. This time the girls are from arts school.” The boy wiggled his eyebrows meaningfully.
Yunho just chuckled, playfully smacking Seojun’s forehead in the process. “So what?”
“Hey, come on. We’re seventeen and tomorrow is the start of summer holiday. Who knows you might get lucky and finally get a girlfriend to spend the summer with.”
“Though I still find it weird that you never had a girlfriend when the girls practically throwing themselves at you.”
“Dude, did you forget?” Jihoon slapped Seojun on the shoulder. “He’s still waiting for his ‘first love’.”
“That chick from ten years ago? Seriously?”
Yunho just ignored the two idiots who he called friends. They’re just having the same conversation again and again. Every time he refused to join them for blind dates, they would keep bringing up about the story of his first love and mocked him. Till today, the brunette regretted telling those two about it. Though he did left the part that his first love is a guy not a girl.
“I mean that chick better be damn well pretty for you to keep pining after all this years.”
“The prettiest.” Yunho had a dreamy look on his face as he reminisced the memory and his two friends looked at each other before snickering.
“Okay, fine. Just come with us this one time. The girls only agreed to this date because we promised to bring you along.” Jihoon finally begged.
“Guys, no.” Yunho pushed Jihoon arms off his shoulder. “And I may not be available throughout summer. Have fun at your blind date.”
“What? Where are you going?”
Yunho turned around and continued walking backwards as he looked at his two friends who had stopped in their walk. “I’m going to go find my first love.” He said with a smile.
He pivoted on his heels and walked forward, leaving his two friends. He can hear Jihoon’s cursing and Seojun disbelief murmur of ‘He’s crazy.’
Well, Yunho doesn’t care.
[][][][]
He arrived at Seoul Station and looked around at the hundreds of people around him, minding their own business. He scrutinized the clothes they’re wearing and nod in satisfaction as the blue jeans, white shirt and camouflaged pattern jacket that he’s wearing does not stand out, he actually blend in with the people here. The last thing he want was to look like a hick from countryside, he even have practiced his Seoul accent.
Wandering around the station aimlessly and he tried not to gawk at things that fascinate him simply because he had never seen it back at Gwangju. The tall boy purchased a steam bun and sat down at one of the many empty chairs at the station to enjoy his lunch.
He took a bite of the still steaming bun, keeping a mental note as he compared the bun with the one he have eaten at Gwangju. A loud giggles caught his attention and when he looked up from his bun, he can see a group of teenage girls indeed were giggling and keep glancing at him. His brows frown in confusion because clearly the girls were talking about him.
One of the girls comes forward but she didn’t exactly approached Yunho. She stopped a few feet away and took out her phone, snapping pictures of the confused boys. Yunho grew uncomfortable with the attention he’s receiving, he got up and walked away from the group of girls.
He managed to catch the words ‘internet ulzzang’ or something as the girls squealed excitedly among themselves. They almost seemed like they were going to follow him so Yunho picked up his pace and turned around the corner. He looked around just to be sure the girls were not following him.
Once he’s sure none of them were following him, he leaned against a pillar and took a deep breath. That was a nerve-wracking experience for him after all he is in a big city alone. He knows no one here and don’t know where to go. That reminded him. Umma already told him to look for a place to stay first before going off on his search. But where to?
Sighing, he took out his wallet. Between the Won bills, he took out a polaroid picture. The one taken ten years ago at a party. A farewell party for Jaejoong before he went to Seoul for college.
He looked at the worn out picture. It was a picture of Jaejoong and him. Jaejoong’s smiling and his arm around Yunho’s shoulder, seven years old Yunho was pouting and his eyes glassy with tears. That was the last time he saw him.
“Yunho.”
Jajeoong’s gentle voice called out for him but Yunho refused to budge from where he stands. He even stomped his little feet just to show how angry and sad he was.
“Hey, little man.” Jaejoong crouched down at eye level with Yunho. Smiling, he cupped Yunho’s face and made the boy looked at him.
“You’re really going to stay mad at me?”
Yunho ‘hummpph’ in confirmation and Jaejoong just chuckled.
“Well, I guess Yunho doesn’t love me anymore.” Jajeoong said with a sulky tone.
“No!” Yunho squealed in distress, arms flailing around as he tried to grab onto Jaejoong finally taking hold of the teenager’s shoulder.
“I love you, Jaejoongie.” He buried his face against Jaejoong’s neck and sobbed in tears.
“And I love you too.” Jajeoong patted the sobbing boy on his back. “I’m just going to go for a while but that doesn’t mean I’m leaving you. You still want to be my boyfriend, right?”
Yunho lifted his face from Jaejoong’s neck crook and looked at the raven right in the eyes before nodding in confirmation. Jajeoong can’t help but smiled at the cute boy as he wiped away the trace of tears on his chubby cheeks.
“So, when you’re big and tall, you’ll come for me right?”
“Yes!” The little boy said with absolute confidence.
“Well then, I’ll wait for you.” And he pecked Yunho on his lips one final time.
Smiling at the memory, he wonders how exactly was he going to find Jaejoong. The only clues he have were that Jaejoong went to Korea University and the old picture in his hand. And does Jaejoong still looked the same as in the picture? After all Yunho changed a lot in 10 years. Gone was the short kid with chubby cheeks and crooked teeth. He was now a young man with chiselled jaw, well-muscled body, and he was so tanned from playing rugby; he stood tall at 180cm and dare say the girls back home even went as far as calling him a Greek God. But he didn’t let that get into his head.
Yeah, he really need to think fast.
[][][][]
He had been walking aimlessly for the last 40 minutes, arriving at some random neighbourhood. Tall apartments surrounded the park he was standing at. A group of children were playing at the park by the playground. Deciding to take a rest, he walked towards one of the benches and sat down, placing his bag pack next to him on the wooden bench.
As he watched the kids playing, he heard a distance cry. There over the swings, a kid was on the ground, crying, looked like he was knocked off the swing. Another boy was fussing over the crying boy as a group of four to five other kids surrounded them. One of the bullies were going to hit the two boys when suddenly another boy appeared, blocking the hit. The boy was slightly taller and lankier than the rest of the group but he didn’t look older than them.
“Leave them alone.” The tall kid shouted.
The group of kids just laughed at him. Yunho looked on as the situation got more serious. The boys looked like they were going to fight. This can’t be good. The crying boy cried louder and his friend looked like he was going to cry too while the tall kid stood firm protecting the two. Just as the bullies were getting into action Yunho decided he had to interfere.
“Hey, what are you doing?” Yunho growled as he jogged over to the boys.
The group of boy fled the scene as soon the older boy approached, leaving the three on the ground. Yunho sighed; he squatted down on the ground by the crying boy’s side and patted his head.
“Are you okay, kid?”
“Waahh!” The crying boy wailed louder and threw himself at Yunho. The brunette barely managed to hold the boy and balanced himself from toppling back. He settled the boy on his lap as the boy cried against his chest. The other boy, with wide forehead, Yunho noted, suddenly clutched at his knee and started crying too.
Yunho was bewildered. What to do with two crying kids?
“It’s okay.” One hand holding and patting the boy on his lap while his other hand stroked the hair of the boy at his knee. “They’re gone. They’re not gonna hurt you anymore.”
The slightly taller boy who had protected the two steps closer to Yunho at his side and Yunho looked up at him. The boy bowed 90 degrees at him, “Thank you for helping us, hyung.”
Yunho scrutinized the boy. He had a firm expression on his face and his fists were clenched probably in anger at the bullies but Yunho noticed his body was trembling and his eyes were darting around, as if he’s afraid the bullies will come for them again. Ah, Yunho get it. The boy was terrified too. He was just being brave for his two friends but actually he was scared too.
Yunho’s heart goes aww at the boy’s braveness. He held out one of his arms, motioning the boy to come closer. As the boy did, Yunho pulled him so he was plastered at his side. He patted the boy on his back.
“You were so brave. You did a good job.” Yunho smiled at him.
The boy’s lips trembled and finally he broke down. Hugging Yunho around his neck and crying his heart out.
Yunho wonder how did he look right now, on the ground, three crying kids in his arms. He just hoped no one misunderstands and reported him to the police.
[][][][]
The boys had finally calmed down. Yunho and the boys were seated on the bench now. The kid who was pushed off the swing still refused to leave Yunho’s lap so he let him be. The boy name was Junsu, Yunho found out. He had a round face with dew shaped eyes and a cute button nose. Even his tiny lips were cute. Everything about the boy screamed cuteness.
The one with the wide forehead is Yoochun. He’s seated on Yunho’s right side, one arm winding around Yunho’s as if afraid of letting him go. The boy had such clear eyes when he looked up at Yunho in utter adoration. And when he smiled, gosh, Yunho’s heart melts at the sight.
The brave boy, Changmin leaned against Yunho’s left side, a roll of kimbap in his hand that Yunho had purchased at the bus station. Yunho admired the boy, the way he stood up against the bully and his politeness. Though he acted mature, his face still depicted innocence with his big eyes on his handsome face.
Yunho sighed. What should he do now?
“Boys,” he started. “Aren’t you guys going home?”
“We want to wait for appa.” Changmin said.
“Oh, where did he go?”
Changmin looked at him incredulously. “Work.” The look on his face emphasis the obvious ‘duhh.’
Yunho turned to Yoochun, “What about your appa, Yoochun?”
Yoochun looked at him in confusion.
“My appa is Yoochun’s appa too, hyung.” Changmin answered on behalf of Yoochun, rolling his eyes as if Yunho should have known that fact.
“Su too!” The boy on his lap chimed cheerfully. Smiling and tilting his head to the side for added cuteness effect.
Wait, they all have the same appa? “You boys are siblings?”
Changmin rolled his eyes, “Well, yeah.”
Yunho looked at the three of them. Scrutinizing each of their faces. “But you don’t resemble each other.”
“Adopted. Duhh.” Changmin muttered.
Okay, that kid is starting to be not so cute anymore.
“Appa loves us. Appa take care of Su, Chun and Min.” Junsu chirped.
Yunho nodded in understanding, processing the information. He wonders what kind of person is their father, willing to adopt three children. He must be a great man.
“Appa!” Yoochun suddenly shot up next to Yunho, scrambling to get down the bench. Changmin also excitedly jumped of the wooden bench while Junsu struggle in Yunho’s lap. He put down Junsu onto the ground and the three boys ran towards the road.
Cried of ‘Appa’ echoed through the quiet park as the three boys ran towards a man who Yunho finally realized was standing at the park entrance. Junsu hold out his arms and jumping at the man’s feet, demanding to be picked up. The man did so while Yoochun and Changmin each hold the man at each sides. They were laughing and the boys looked like they were chattering excitedly at their father probably telling about their day.
Yunho watched from the far end. They looked… blissed. And Yunho can’t help but curve a smile of his own at the sight.
Suddenly, he saw Yoochun and Changmin were running towards him, their father in tow behind with Junsu in his arms.
“Yunho hyung,” Yoochun excitedly grabbed for his arm when they reached Yunho, panting for breath. “Come meet our appa.” He said with a sunny smile.
Changmin grabbed his other arm and the two started pulling him towards their father.
“Yunnie!” Junsu called for him from his father’s hold.
Yunho reluctantly allowed himself to be dragged but as he got closer to the man, his steps faltered. He stopped in his track, staring at the man in trance.
Jaejoong, he gasped internally. I’ve found you.
The man is definitely Jaejoong. He still have the same smile, the same face, albeit he’s slightly taller than the last time Yunho say him and now sporting blonde hair. It’s still him.
Yunho was so sure. Finally. Finally he found him. His first love. Yunho’s heart soared to the sky, he was happy beyond relief.
But then his smile disappeared as he looked down at the two boys by his feet, grumbling and trying to pull Yunho who had stuck rooted to the ground. Realization hit him on his face.
The boys. Their father. Jaejoong. Jaejoong is their father. Jaejoong is a father.
[][][][]
Yunho’s eyes shot open when a force hit his stomach. He groaned, blearily opened his eyes only to be meet with Junsu’s sparkling ones. Junsu had made himself comfortable on Yunho’s chest after he had jumped on the older boy, waking him from his sleep.
Yesterday, he had arrived at Seoul hoping to find his long lost first love and he found him. He did. Only to have his heart broken to know that his first love is already married and had adopted three children. But what made it even worse was:
“Hello, thank you for helping my sons.”
Jaejoong stood in front of him, only a few feet away, the closest they ever have been together since the last 10 years but Yunho cannot reach for him.
“I’m Kim Jaejoong.” The blonde had said. Extending one hand for a handshake with a radiant smile on his face. The smile that Yunho had seen directed to him so many times 10 years ago.
He didn’t recognize me! Yunho’s heart dropped and shattered to pieces. He felt like crying. His eyes were starting to welled up in tears but he forced it down. Steeling himself.
With a stiff smile, he took Jajeoong’s hand. “Lee Yunho.” He lied.
Yunho put both of his hands on his face, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. Of course Jaejoong didn’t recognize him. He had grown from a boy to a man. Of course he looked different from 10 years ago while Jaejoong still has the same features that he had when he was a teenager. He had lied on impulse. Seeing Jaejoong, happy with his family, he did not want to impose on their life. It would be better if Jaejoong did not recognize him. So, he lied.
When Jaejoong found out he had nowhere to go, he had offered Yunho to stay at his house, like the kind man he was. He was always kind, just the way he had taken after Yunho before. He said it was the least he can do for his boys’ hero. In daze, Yunho accepted the offer.
So here he was, on the bed, in the guest bedroom, a giggling boy on his chest.
“Wake up, Yunnie. We’re having pancakes for breakfast.” The boy lightly hit his chest, giggling all the way.
Yunho exhaled loudly before taking hold of the boy, and rolling out of the bed. He shot up with the boy firmly in his hold. “Pancake, huh?” He tickled the boy side. “Who wants pancake? Who wants pancake?” He teased the boy as his fingers dance across his small body.
Junsu yelp excitedly and giggled as he squirmed in Yunho’s hold. “Su wants pancake!” He managed to say between giggles.
Yunho finally took mercy of the boy and stopped tickling him. Playfully, he threw the boy over his shoulder and carried him to the kitchen. Junsu laughed all the way and was still laughing when Yunho dropped him on the chair at the dining table.
He caught a glimpse of Jaejoong, standing in front of the stove, smiling as he watched them.
Yunho took a seat next to Junsu. Yoochun and Changmin were already seated, next to each other across Yunho.
Yoochun smiled at him and waved his hand as he wished him good morning. Yunho reached across the small table and pecked Yoochun on the cheek. The boy giggled.
“Morning, hyung. But don’t-“ Changmin quickly shot up his hands, blocking his face. “-kiss me.”
Yunho laughed and ruffled the kid’s hair.
Jajeoong came around the kitchen, a plate stacked with layers of pancakes in one hand and a bottle of milk in the other. He placed them on the table and was about to returned to kitchen when Yunho got up from his sit.
“Let me.” He said firmly and walked into the kitchen area. He glanced back at Jaejoong and saw him smiled as he took his seat at the head of the table. Yunho smiled back at him.
He grabbed three plastic cups with different colours, pink, blue, and white, assuming those are for the boys, and placed them on a tray.
“Coffee is in the cupboard.” Jaejoong pointed out.
Yunho nodded without looking at Jaejoong. He search the cupboard for the coffee mix and when he found it, he get to work and prepared two mugs for him and Jaejoong. He didn’t know why he felt so at ease and comfortable in someone else’s house. I mean, he’s making coffee, for freaking sake, in someone else’s kitchen!
Ignoring that thought, he brought the tray filled with the cups and two mugs of coffee to the table. He handed a mug to Jaejoong who accepted it with a smile and a whispered thank you. He then set about pouring the milk into the cups and placing each of the cups on the table within the boys reach.
When he finally took a seat, once again he glanced at Jaejoong and the blonde thanked him again. Jaejoong placed a plate of pancake in front of Yunho and poured the syrup for him.
“Thank you,” Yunho had said, accepting the plate.
“Eat up,” Jaejoong said with a smile.
Him and his damn smile. Why does he smile all the time? It just made him look more beautiful. And made it harder for Yunho to ignore him.
Yunho eat in silent. As he chewed on the pancake, he silently observed everyone at the table. Changmin doesn’t talk much, preferring to focus on his pancakes. If he’s not mistaken, that’s the third piece of pancake Changmin is gobbling down. What kind of stomach does this boy have, Yunho wonder in amusement.
Yoochun had his pancakes lather with so much syrup and whipped cream. He even poured an unhealthy amount of chocolate syrup onto it. Ick, Yunho can feel all that sugary sweetness down to his throat even if he was not the one eating it. Just how sweet of a sweet tooth can this boy had?
Junsu was singing while eating. It looks like he was singing more than eating. His pancake looked barely eaten but the boy was happily swaying in his chair, singing the Three Bears song. Yunho smiled at his cuteness.
And Jaejoong. When Yunho glanced at Jaejoong, their eyes met and the blonde quickly averted his gaze, almost guiltily. Had Jaejoong been staring at him all this time? Why?
Waving off the thoughts he once again focused on finishing his pancakes. Looking at the picture that the five of them created, him, Jaejoong and the three boys. It felt very domestic. Like they’re one family having breakfast together.
But of course that’s not the case, Yunho thought sadly.
“Appa, zoo.” Junsu suddenly chirped loudly.
“Yeah, appa. You promise.” Changmin finally tear his attention from the pancake and looked at Jaejoong in expectation. Yoochun also looked like he was about to say something but he opted on making puppy eyes at Jaejoong.
Jaejoong looked at his boys, directly being aimed with their aegyo, he rolled his eyes playfully. He can never win against his sons’ aegyo. “Okay, okay.”
The boys cheered.
“Come on, Yunnie, we’re going to the zoo!” Junsu excitedly patted his arm.
“I’m going too?”
Jaejoong directed his gaze at Yunho, biting his lips almost like he was nervous. “If you want to?”
Yunho looked around the table, it is now his turn to receive aegyo from the boys as they looked at him, waiting for his answer. He turned at Jaejoong and he dare say even the blonde looked like he was expecting Yunho to come with them, but he was not sure if he was right.
“Sounds fun,” he finally said.
The boys cheered again. And Yunho believes he saw Jaejoong let out a breath of relief before smiling at him.
[][][][]
Everything fascinates the boys. From elephants to lions, they visited every animal at the zoo. Between him and Jaejoong, they had to keep watch of the boys as they tend to ran in different direction at whatever attracted their attention. The problem is everything is interesting to the curious boys.
When they arrived at the Kid’s Zoo, finally they can let the boys go and roamed around the area as the area is a lot safer with tame animals, and the staff around. As the boys went off on their expedition, Yunho and Jaejoong sat at one of the brick table painted with pictures of animals, making sure that they have an eye view of the boys from where they sat, facing each other.
“Thank you for coming today.” Jaejoong started the conversation.
“No, thank you for allowing me. I had a great time.”
“Thank God, you’re here today. I mean I did promised the boys to bring them to the zoo this weekend but I dreaded the day to come because I’ll have to run around, chasing after them. But since you’re here, it’s a lot easier.” The blonde flashed a grateful smile at Yunho.
“Two hands are always better than one.” Yunho said absently.
Then silence overtook them. Both of them just stare and watched the boys played around the area. Laughing when a goat butted Junsu on the back making him cry, Yoochun rushing over trying to calm the crying boy while Changmin pretended to wrestle the said goat, making Junsu laughed again.
Yunho chuckled in delight, feeling blissful just watching the boys and when he turned to Jaejoong, he can see the same expression on Jaejoong’s face. Their eyes met briefly before Jaejoong ducked his head.
“Do I have something on my face?” Yunho asked as Jaejoong had keep staring at him.
“No, it’s not that. You just - just, resembled someone I know.” He said quietly without looking at Yunho.
“Do you mind if I ask?”
“Yeah?” The blonde lifted his head and looked at Yunho.
“How did you decide to adopt the boys?”
Jaejoong sighed. He put his hands on the table in front of him, his fingers trailing over the pictures painted on the surface. “I worked at a hospital. I’m a nurse at the children’s ward. One day, three boys were admitted to the hospital and they were put under my care. Their files said they’re from an orphanage and, I don’t know, I guess, my heart just went to them.”
Yunho nodded. He too would feel the same under such situation.
“They were under my care for a week and I guess, we bonded and I don’t want to let them go. It probably sounds crazy since we’ve only been together a week but I already loved them at that time. So, yeah, I adopted them.” He ended his story with a smile, a tear dropped from his eyes and he wiped it away.
“It’s not crazy.”
“Huh?”
“You loving them. I’ve only been with them for two days and I love them already.”
Suddenly Jajeoong’s eyes sparkled and he looked at Yunho in so much adoration, and he smiled, the same smiled he had on his face when Yunho first said ‘I love you’ to him, ten years ago.
[][][][]
When they got home, Yunho helped Jaejoong bathed the boys. All three of them got into the bathtub while he and Jaejoong stayed at the edge of the tub, rubbing soap on their body and shampooing their hair. The boys were very active, adrenaline still ran through them from the excitement of visiting the zoo today.
He and Jaejoong ended up wet when the boys declare war on them. Splashing water and throwing rubber ducks at them. The small bathroom filled with laughter and squealed of excitement as he and Jaejoong retaliated and sprayed the boys with water using the shower hose.
The house had just calmed down. Jaejoong put the boys to sleep. He wished good night to Yunho first before he too proceeds to enter his bedroom. Now Yunho sat alone on the bed, thinking. Weighing his options. Making decisions.
Clearly Jaejoong was happy, with his life, with his family. Besides, Jaejoong didn’t even remember him anymore. There was no use for him to be here anymore. He should go back to his own life.
He had decided, early in the morning tomorrow, he’s going back to Gwangju.
That night Yunho cried himself to sleep.
[][][][]
Jaejoong went about his day, preparing breakfast for his sons and their guest. Last night it took him a long time to fall to sleep. His mind keeps drifting off to their young guest. Jaejoong sighed, the strangers, the young boy had felt so familiar to him but he doesn’t want to get his hope up. And when he introduced himself as Lee Yunho, Jaejoong accepted that he’s not the one. Still, the teenager reminded him of his child lover.
How would My Yunho looks like now?
Will he still have his crooked teeth or his chubby cheek?
Did he grow up well?
Does he look like this Yunho?
Jaejoong shook his blonde head out of his imagination and smiled to himself.
Just then, Changmin padded out of his room to the dining table, hands rubbing his sleepy eyes.
“Morning, honey.” He greeted Changmin.
“Hi, appa,” Changmin waved dispassionately at him. Changmin had always been a bit closed off, not showing affection as openly as Yoochun and Junsu but Jaejoong knows deep down the boy loves his family.
“Can you help wake Yunho up?” Jaejoong asked sweetly and snickered when Changmin grumbled in annoyance but the boy still obeyed, dragging his feet to the guest bedroom.
“Appa!” Changmin rushed to him. “Yunho hyung is not in his room.”
“What?” Jaejoong the knife in his hand onto the counter and went to the guest room to see for himself.
There was no sign of Yunho in the room. Jaejoong searched around the room. His back pack is gone too, he noted. Then his eyes caught the sight of a piece of paper on the desk by the window. He took it and read.
Dear Jaejoong,
Thank you for letting me stay with you and letting me be part of your family. To Junsu, Yoochun, and Changmin, I love you guys.
Jung Yunho.
Along with the note, there’s a picture. A picture of him and his Yunho, Jaejoong gasped. But why does Yunho have a picture of him and his Yunho? He recognized the picture that was taken 10 years ago. Yunho had been crying at his farewell party and they took the picture after Yunho had finally calmed down.
Yunho have this picture, and the note! It was signed by Jung Yunho. Jung Yunho! - so it can only mean one thing.
A sharp pain constricted in Jaejoong’s chest as his heart throbbed. His legs felt weak and he dropped down onto the bed, holding the picture closed to his heart.
“Appa, why are you crying?”
Yoochun had approached him. He looked at Changmin and Junsu who’s standing at the door frame, staring at him. Was he crying? He didn’t even realize that he was.
My Yunho.
[][][][]
Yunho was waiting for his bus at the terminal. He subconsciously pulled down the cap on his head hopefully it will cover his swollen eyes. After all he had been crying all night and he still can feel tears welling up in his eyes, but it’s embarrassing for a man to cry in public.
A hard slap to his back made him jumped in surprised. He turned around to lash out at the culprit but instead he was faced with Jaejoong. Hair strewn out of place, tear streaked face and red cheeks, flushing from anger.
“You lied to me!” The blonde hissed at him.
Yunho blinked, staring blankly at a fuming Jaejoong.
“You promised me. You promised you will come for me and I waited! Waited for you all these years. Now that you’ve found me, you’re just going to leave me?” He all but shrieked as fresh tears run down his cheeks.
“I-I…”
“Jung Yunho, you idiot.” He said to him but with no malice at all, instead the word was full of affection and Yunho finally moved from his statue-like state.
Yunho pulled Jaejoong into his embrace, feeling the blonde’s weak struggle, punches against his chest before finally he calmed down and put his hand around Yunho too.
“How dare you try to leave me,” Jaejoong said against his chest. The guy was shorter and smaller than Yunho’s larger frame making him fit directly into his hold.
Yunho sighed. This is it. This is the feeling he was looking for. Jaejoong complete him so much.
“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. You just looked so happy with your life and I’m sure your wife is-“
“What?” Jaejoong lifted his head from Yunho’s chest but didn’t move from his embrace. “Wife? There’s no wife, Yunho.”
Yunho was bewildered. “But your sons-“
“Adopted, remember. I don’t have wife. I’ve never got married. I’ve been waiting for you,” he punched Yunho’s chest to prove his point. His chest is nicely muscled, Jaejoong noted, smirking in his head. “There has never been anyone else other than you.”
“I thought she was away for work, or something.” Now Yunho felt stupid. “I don’t know what to say,” Yunho said, dejected.
Jaejoong smiled at him, he reached up his hands to cup Yunho’s face. “I kinda miss your chubby cheeks,” he said affectionately before pinching the teenage boy’s said cheeks.
“Well, I don’t,” Yunho finally let out a small smile.
“You’ve grown so tall. Do you still want to make me your ‘girlfriend’?”
“Yes!” Yunho enthusiastically nodded. “You’re my first love. I have drunk every gallon of milk on this planet Earth just so that I get taller for you, so I damn well demanded you to be my girlfriend.”
Jaejoong giggled at Yunho’s child-like behaviour. “Then, kiss me.” Jaejoong breathlessly said, looking right into Yunho’s eyes.
Yunho leaned down, a breath away from Jaejoong’s lips, he stopped. “With pleasure,” he whispered against his boyfriend’s lips before claiming it with his own.
[][][][]
Inside a car parked by the road, three small heads plastered against the car’s glass window. When a blonde guy and a taller brunette walked towards the car hand in hand, they whooped! in laughter.
Changmin had a smug smile on his face. “See, I told you Yunho hyung will be staying with us.” He said to Yoochun and Junsu.
“Su, we’re going to get a new appa!” Yoochun excitedly hugged Junsu.
“But we already have appa?” Junsu blinked his eyes in confusion.
Yoochun patted Junsu’s cute head and cheerfully explained to him. “Now, appa will be umma and Yunho hyung will be appa!”
“Oh!” Junsu and Yoochun clapped their hands like seal and started singing their hearts out.
Changmin rolled his eyes at his brothers. “Idiots.”
end
23rd July 2014
sylchunnie
Author: Sylchunnie
Pairing: Yunho X Jaejoong
Genre: Fluff, Romance, AU
Ratings: G
Length: One-shot
Summary: Sequel to Distance 20cm. Yunho went out to search for his long lost first love only to find the surprise of his life. Will the two lovers be united or will Yunho give up?
A/N: I encourage readers to read Distance 20cm first before reading this story.
distance 10cm
“Yunho!”
“Dude.”
The brunette stopped in his track, not bothered to turn around as he heard his friends’ voices. Jihoon, the school’s rugby captain and Yunho’s neighbour, came running towards him followed by another of his friend, a tall and lanky boy named Seojun.
Jihoon sling his arm around Yunho’s shoulder and leaned against him as he panted for breath. “Dude.”
Seojun then arrived and plastered himself against Jihoon, catching his breath. All in all, Yunho had to support the weight of both his two friends.
“Dude,” Seojun gasp out.
“Can you stop with the ‘dude’.” Shaking his head in amusement at his friend antics, he continued walking, dragging the two along in process.
Jihoon grinned toothily, and it always make him looked kind of like a shark, dangerous and feral. Probably the reason why girls loved him. He’s the ultimate bad boy. Or so he believes to be. “You’re going home already?”
“Dude, come on.” Seojun whined as Yunho nodded in confirmation. “We’re going to a blind date meeting. This time the girls are from arts school.” The boy wiggled his eyebrows meaningfully.
Yunho just chuckled, playfully smacking Seojun’s forehead in the process. “So what?”
“Hey, come on. We’re seventeen and tomorrow is the start of summer holiday. Who knows you might get lucky and finally get a girlfriend to spend the summer with.”
“Though I still find it weird that you never had a girlfriend when the girls practically throwing themselves at you.”
“Dude, did you forget?” Jihoon slapped Seojun on the shoulder. “He’s still waiting for his ‘first love’.”
“That chick from ten years ago? Seriously?”
Yunho just ignored the two idiots who he called friends. They’re just having the same conversation again and again. Every time he refused to join them for blind dates, they would keep bringing up about the story of his first love and mocked him. Till today, the brunette regretted telling those two about it. Though he did left the part that his first love is a guy not a girl.
“I mean that chick better be damn well pretty for you to keep pining after all this years.”
“The prettiest.” Yunho had a dreamy look on his face as he reminisced the memory and his two friends looked at each other before snickering.
“Okay, fine. Just come with us this one time. The girls only agreed to this date because we promised to bring you along.” Jihoon finally begged.
“Guys, no.” Yunho pushed Jihoon arms off his shoulder. “And I may not be available throughout summer. Have fun at your blind date.”
“What? Where are you going?”
Yunho turned around and continued walking backwards as he looked at his two friends who had stopped in their walk. “I’m going to go find my first love.” He said with a smile.
He pivoted on his heels and walked forward, leaving his two friends. He can hear Jihoon’s cursing and Seojun disbelief murmur of ‘He’s crazy.’
Well, Yunho doesn’t care.
[][][][]
He arrived at Seoul Station and looked around at the hundreds of people around him, minding their own business. He scrutinized the clothes they’re wearing and nod in satisfaction as the blue jeans, white shirt and camouflaged pattern jacket that he’s wearing does not stand out, he actually blend in with the people here. The last thing he want was to look like a hick from countryside, he even have practiced his Seoul accent.
Wandering around the station aimlessly and he tried not to gawk at things that fascinate him simply because he had never seen it back at Gwangju. The tall boy purchased a steam bun and sat down at one of the many empty chairs at the station to enjoy his lunch.
He took a bite of the still steaming bun, keeping a mental note as he compared the bun with the one he have eaten at Gwangju. A loud giggles caught his attention and when he looked up from his bun, he can see a group of teenage girls indeed were giggling and keep glancing at him. His brows frown in confusion because clearly the girls were talking about him.
One of the girls comes forward but she didn’t exactly approached Yunho. She stopped a few feet away and took out her phone, snapping pictures of the confused boys. Yunho grew uncomfortable with the attention he’s receiving, he got up and walked away from the group of girls.
He managed to catch the words ‘internet ulzzang’ or something as the girls squealed excitedly among themselves. They almost seemed like they were going to follow him so Yunho picked up his pace and turned around the corner. He looked around just to be sure the girls were not following him.
Once he’s sure none of them were following him, he leaned against a pillar and took a deep breath. That was a nerve-wracking experience for him after all he is in a big city alone. He knows no one here and don’t know where to go. That reminded him. Umma already told him to look for a place to stay first before going off on his search. But where to?
Sighing, he took out his wallet. Between the Won bills, he took out a polaroid picture. The one taken ten years ago at a party. A farewell party for Jaejoong before he went to Seoul for college.
He looked at the worn out picture. It was a picture of Jaejoong and him. Jaejoong’s smiling and his arm around Yunho’s shoulder, seven years old Yunho was pouting and his eyes glassy with tears. That was the last time he saw him.
“Yunho.”
Jajeoong’s gentle voice called out for him but Yunho refused to budge from where he stands. He even stomped his little feet just to show how angry and sad he was.
“Hey, little man.” Jaejoong crouched down at eye level with Yunho. Smiling, he cupped Yunho’s face and made the boy looked at him.
“You’re really going to stay mad at me?”
Yunho ‘hummpph’ in confirmation and Jaejoong just chuckled.
“Well, I guess Yunho doesn’t love me anymore.” Jajeoong said with a sulky tone.
“No!” Yunho squealed in distress, arms flailing around as he tried to grab onto Jaejoong finally taking hold of the teenager’s shoulder.
“I love you, Jaejoongie.” He buried his face against Jaejoong’s neck and sobbed in tears.
“And I love you too.” Jajeoong patted the sobbing boy on his back. “I’m just going to go for a while but that doesn’t mean I’m leaving you. You still want to be my boyfriend, right?”
Yunho lifted his face from Jaejoong’s neck crook and looked at the raven right in the eyes before nodding in confirmation. Jajeoong can’t help but smiled at the cute boy as he wiped away the trace of tears on his chubby cheeks.
“So, when you’re big and tall, you’ll come for me right?”
“Yes!” The little boy said with absolute confidence.
“Well then, I’ll wait for you.” And he pecked Yunho on his lips one final time.
Smiling at the memory, he wonders how exactly was he going to find Jaejoong. The only clues he have were that Jaejoong went to Korea University and the old picture in his hand. And does Jaejoong still looked the same as in the picture? After all Yunho changed a lot in 10 years. Gone was the short kid with chubby cheeks and crooked teeth. He was now a young man with chiselled jaw, well-muscled body, and he was so tanned from playing rugby; he stood tall at 180cm and dare say the girls back home even went as far as calling him a Greek God. But he didn’t let that get into his head.
Yeah, he really need to think fast.
[][][][]
He had been walking aimlessly for the last 40 minutes, arriving at some random neighbourhood. Tall apartments surrounded the park he was standing at. A group of children were playing at the park by the playground. Deciding to take a rest, he walked towards one of the benches and sat down, placing his bag pack next to him on the wooden bench.
As he watched the kids playing, he heard a distance cry. There over the swings, a kid was on the ground, crying, looked like he was knocked off the swing. Another boy was fussing over the crying boy as a group of four to five other kids surrounded them. One of the bullies were going to hit the two boys when suddenly another boy appeared, blocking the hit. The boy was slightly taller and lankier than the rest of the group but he didn’t look older than them.
“Leave them alone.” The tall kid shouted.
The group of kids just laughed at him. Yunho looked on as the situation got more serious. The boys looked like they were going to fight. This can’t be good. The crying boy cried louder and his friend looked like he was going to cry too while the tall kid stood firm protecting the two. Just as the bullies were getting into action Yunho decided he had to interfere.
“Hey, what are you doing?” Yunho growled as he jogged over to the boys.
The group of boy fled the scene as soon the older boy approached, leaving the three on the ground. Yunho sighed; he squatted down on the ground by the crying boy’s side and patted his head.
“Are you okay, kid?”
“Waahh!” The crying boy wailed louder and threw himself at Yunho. The brunette barely managed to hold the boy and balanced himself from toppling back. He settled the boy on his lap as the boy cried against his chest. The other boy, with wide forehead, Yunho noted, suddenly clutched at his knee and started crying too.
Yunho was bewildered. What to do with two crying kids?
“It’s okay.” One hand holding and patting the boy on his lap while his other hand stroked the hair of the boy at his knee. “They’re gone. They’re not gonna hurt you anymore.”
The slightly taller boy who had protected the two steps closer to Yunho at his side and Yunho looked up at him. The boy bowed 90 degrees at him, “Thank you for helping us, hyung.”
Yunho scrutinized the boy. He had a firm expression on his face and his fists were clenched probably in anger at the bullies but Yunho noticed his body was trembling and his eyes were darting around, as if he’s afraid the bullies will come for them again. Ah, Yunho get it. The boy was terrified too. He was just being brave for his two friends but actually he was scared too.
Yunho’s heart goes aww at the boy’s braveness. He held out one of his arms, motioning the boy to come closer. As the boy did, Yunho pulled him so he was plastered at his side. He patted the boy on his back.
“You were so brave. You did a good job.” Yunho smiled at him.
The boy’s lips trembled and finally he broke down. Hugging Yunho around his neck and crying his heart out.
Yunho wonder how did he look right now, on the ground, three crying kids in his arms. He just hoped no one misunderstands and reported him to the police.
[][][][]
The boys had finally calmed down. Yunho and the boys were seated on the bench now. The kid who was pushed off the swing still refused to leave Yunho’s lap so he let him be. The boy name was Junsu, Yunho found out. He had a round face with dew shaped eyes and a cute button nose. Even his tiny lips were cute. Everything about the boy screamed cuteness.
The one with the wide forehead is Yoochun. He’s seated on Yunho’s right side, one arm winding around Yunho’s as if afraid of letting him go. The boy had such clear eyes when he looked up at Yunho in utter adoration. And when he smiled, gosh, Yunho’s heart melts at the sight.
The brave boy, Changmin leaned against Yunho’s left side, a roll of kimbap in his hand that Yunho had purchased at the bus station. Yunho admired the boy, the way he stood up against the bully and his politeness. Though he acted mature, his face still depicted innocence with his big eyes on his handsome face.
Yunho sighed. What should he do now?
“Boys,” he started. “Aren’t you guys going home?”
“We want to wait for appa.” Changmin said.
“Oh, where did he go?”
Changmin looked at him incredulously. “Work.” The look on his face emphasis the obvious ‘duhh.’
Yunho turned to Yoochun, “What about your appa, Yoochun?”
Yoochun looked at him in confusion.
“My appa is Yoochun’s appa too, hyung.” Changmin answered on behalf of Yoochun, rolling his eyes as if Yunho should have known that fact.
“Su too!” The boy on his lap chimed cheerfully. Smiling and tilting his head to the side for added cuteness effect.
Wait, they all have the same appa? “You boys are siblings?”
Changmin rolled his eyes, “Well, yeah.”
Yunho looked at the three of them. Scrutinizing each of their faces. “But you don’t resemble each other.”
“Adopted. Duhh.” Changmin muttered.
Okay, that kid is starting to be not so cute anymore.
“Appa loves us. Appa take care of Su, Chun and Min.” Junsu chirped.
Yunho nodded in understanding, processing the information. He wonders what kind of person is their father, willing to adopt three children. He must be a great man.
“Appa!” Yoochun suddenly shot up next to Yunho, scrambling to get down the bench. Changmin also excitedly jumped of the wooden bench while Junsu struggle in Yunho’s lap. He put down Junsu onto the ground and the three boys ran towards the road.
Cried of ‘Appa’ echoed through the quiet park as the three boys ran towards a man who Yunho finally realized was standing at the park entrance. Junsu hold out his arms and jumping at the man’s feet, demanding to be picked up. The man did so while Yoochun and Changmin each hold the man at each sides. They were laughing and the boys looked like they were chattering excitedly at their father probably telling about their day.
Yunho watched from the far end. They looked… blissed. And Yunho can’t help but curve a smile of his own at the sight.
Suddenly, he saw Yoochun and Changmin were running towards him, their father in tow behind with Junsu in his arms.
“Yunho hyung,” Yoochun excitedly grabbed for his arm when they reached Yunho, panting for breath. “Come meet our appa.” He said with a sunny smile.
Changmin grabbed his other arm and the two started pulling him towards their father.
“Yunnie!” Junsu called for him from his father’s hold.
Yunho reluctantly allowed himself to be dragged but as he got closer to the man, his steps faltered. He stopped in his track, staring at the man in trance.
Jaejoong, he gasped internally. I’ve found you.
The man is definitely Jaejoong. He still have the same smile, the same face, albeit he’s slightly taller than the last time Yunho say him and now sporting blonde hair. It’s still him.
Yunho was so sure. Finally. Finally he found him. His first love. Yunho’s heart soared to the sky, he was happy beyond relief.
But then his smile disappeared as he looked down at the two boys by his feet, grumbling and trying to pull Yunho who had stuck rooted to the ground. Realization hit him on his face.
The boys. Their father. Jaejoong. Jaejoong is their father. Jaejoong is a father.
[][][][]
Yunho’s eyes shot open when a force hit his stomach. He groaned, blearily opened his eyes only to be meet with Junsu’s sparkling ones. Junsu had made himself comfortable on Yunho’s chest after he had jumped on the older boy, waking him from his sleep.
Yesterday, he had arrived at Seoul hoping to find his long lost first love and he found him. He did. Only to have his heart broken to know that his first love is already married and had adopted three children. But what made it even worse was:
“Hello, thank you for helping my sons.”
Jaejoong stood in front of him, only a few feet away, the closest they ever have been together since the last 10 years but Yunho cannot reach for him.
“I’m Kim Jaejoong.” The blonde had said. Extending one hand for a handshake with a radiant smile on his face. The smile that Yunho had seen directed to him so many times 10 years ago.
He didn’t recognize me! Yunho’s heart dropped and shattered to pieces. He felt like crying. His eyes were starting to welled up in tears but he forced it down. Steeling himself.
With a stiff smile, he took Jajeoong’s hand. “Lee Yunho.” He lied.
Yunho put both of his hands on his face, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. Of course Jaejoong didn’t recognize him. He had grown from a boy to a man. Of course he looked different from 10 years ago while Jaejoong still has the same features that he had when he was a teenager. He had lied on impulse. Seeing Jaejoong, happy with his family, he did not want to impose on their life. It would be better if Jaejoong did not recognize him. So, he lied.
When Jaejoong found out he had nowhere to go, he had offered Yunho to stay at his house, like the kind man he was. He was always kind, just the way he had taken after Yunho before. He said it was the least he can do for his boys’ hero. In daze, Yunho accepted the offer.
So here he was, on the bed, in the guest bedroom, a giggling boy on his chest.
“Wake up, Yunnie. We’re having pancakes for breakfast.” The boy lightly hit his chest, giggling all the way.
Yunho exhaled loudly before taking hold of the boy, and rolling out of the bed. He shot up with the boy firmly in his hold. “Pancake, huh?” He tickled the boy side. “Who wants pancake? Who wants pancake?” He teased the boy as his fingers dance across his small body.
Junsu yelp excitedly and giggled as he squirmed in Yunho’s hold. “Su wants pancake!” He managed to say between giggles.
Yunho finally took mercy of the boy and stopped tickling him. Playfully, he threw the boy over his shoulder and carried him to the kitchen. Junsu laughed all the way and was still laughing when Yunho dropped him on the chair at the dining table.
He caught a glimpse of Jaejoong, standing in front of the stove, smiling as he watched them.
Yunho took a seat next to Junsu. Yoochun and Changmin were already seated, next to each other across Yunho.
Yoochun smiled at him and waved his hand as he wished him good morning. Yunho reached across the small table and pecked Yoochun on the cheek. The boy giggled.
“Morning, hyung. But don’t-“ Changmin quickly shot up his hands, blocking his face. “-kiss me.”
Yunho laughed and ruffled the kid’s hair.
Jajeoong came around the kitchen, a plate stacked with layers of pancakes in one hand and a bottle of milk in the other. He placed them on the table and was about to returned to kitchen when Yunho got up from his sit.
“Let me.” He said firmly and walked into the kitchen area. He glanced back at Jaejoong and saw him smiled as he took his seat at the head of the table. Yunho smiled back at him.
He grabbed three plastic cups with different colours, pink, blue, and white, assuming those are for the boys, and placed them on a tray.
“Coffee is in the cupboard.” Jaejoong pointed out.
Yunho nodded without looking at Jaejoong. He search the cupboard for the coffee mix and when he found it, he get to work and prepared two mugs for him and Jaejoong. He didn’t know why he felt so at ease and comfortable in someone else’s house. I mean, he’s making coffee, for freaking sake, in someone else’s kitchen!
Ignoring that thought, he brought the tray filled with the cups and two mugs of coffee to the table. He handed a mug to Jaejoong who accepted it with a smile and a whispered thank you. He then set about pouring the milk into the cups and placing each of the cups on the table within the boys reach.
When he finally took a seat, once again he glanced at Jaejoong and the blonde thanked him again. Jaejoong placed a plate of pancake in front of Yunho and poured the syrup for him.
“Thank you,” Yunho had said, accepting the plate.
“Eat up,” Jaejoong said with a smile.
Him and his damn smile. Why does he smile all the time? It just made him look more beautiful. And made it harder for Yunho to ignore him.
Yunho eat in silent. As he chewed on the pancake, he silently observed everyone at the table. Changmin doesn’t talk much, preferring to focus on his pancakes. If he’s not mistaken, that’s the third piece of pancake Changmin is gobbling down. What kind of stomach does this boy have, Yunho wonder in amusement.
Yoochun had his pancakes lather with so much syrup and whipped cream. He even poured an unhealthy amount of chocolate syrup onto it. Ick, Yunho can feel all that sugary sweetness down to his throat even if he was not the one eating it. Just how sweet of a sweet tooth can this boy had?
Junsu was singing while eating. It looks like he was singing more than eating. His pancake looked barely eaten but the boy was happily swaying in his chair, singing the Three Bears song. Yunho smiled at his cuteness.
And Jaejoong. When Yunho glanced at Jaejoong, their eyes met and the blonde quickly averted his gaze, almost guiltily. Had Jaejoong been staring at him all this time? Why?
Waving off the thoughts he once again focused on finishing his pancakes. Looking at the picture that the five of them created, him, Jaejoong and the three boys. It felt very domestic. Like they’re one family having breakfast together.
But of course that’s not the case, Yunho thought sadly.
“Appa, zoo.” Junsu suddenly chirped loudly.
“Yeah, appa. You promise.” Changmin finally tear his attention from the pancake and looked at Jaejoong in expectation. Yoochun also looked like he was about to say something but he opted on making puppy eyes at Jaejoong.
Jaejoong looked at his boys, directly being aimed with their aegyo, he rolled his eyes playfully. He can never win against his sons’ aegyo. “Okay, okay.”
The boys cheered.
“Come on, Yunnie, we’re going to the zoo!” Junsu excitedly patted his arm.
“I’m going too?”
Jaejoong directed his gaze at Yunho, biting his lips almost like he was nervous. “If you want to?”
Yunho looked around the table, it is now his turn to receive aegyo from the boys as they looked at him, waiting for his answer. He turned at Jaejoong and he dare say even the blonde looked like he was expecting Yunho to come with them, but he was not sure if he was right.
“Sounds fun,” he finally said.
The boys cheered again. And Yunho believes he saw Jaejoong let out a breath of relief before smiling at him.
[][][][]
Everything fascinates the boys. From elephants to lions, they visited every animal at the zoo. Between him and Jaejoong, they had to keep watch of the boys as they tend to ran in different direction at whatever attracted their attention. The problem is everything is interesting to the curious boys.
When they arrived at the Kid’s Zoo, finally they can let the boys go and roamed around the area as the area is a lot safer with tame animals, and the staff around. As the boys went off on their expedition, Yunho and Jaejoong sat at one of the brick table painted with pictures of animals, making sure that they have an eye view of the boys from where they sat, facing each other.
“Thank you for coming today.” Jaejoong started the conversation.
“No, thank you for allowing me. I had a great time.”
“Thank God, you’re here today. I mean I did promised the boys to bring them to the zoo this weekend but I dreaded the day to come because I’ll have to run around, chasing after them. But since you’re here, it’s a lot easier.” The blonde flashed a grateful smile at Yunho.
“Two hands are always better than one.” Yunho said absently.
Then silence overtook them. Both of them just stare and watched the boys played around the area. Laughing when a goat butted Junsu on the back making him cry, Yoochun rushing over trying to calm the crying boy while Changmin pretended to wrestle the said goat, making Junsu laughed again.
Yunho chuckled in delight, feeling blissful just watching the boys and when he turned to Jaejoong, he can see the same expression on Jaejoong’s face. Their eyes met briefly before Jaejoong ducked his head.
“Do I have something on my face?” Yunho asked as Jaejoong had keep staring at him.
“No, it’s not that. You just - just, resembled someone I know.” He said quietly without looking at Yunho.
“Do you mind if I ask?”
“Yeah?” The blonde lifted his head and looked at Yunho.
“How did you decide to adopt the boys?”
Jaejoong sighed. He put his hands on the table in front of him, his fingers trailing over the pictures painted on the surface. “I worked at a hospital. I’m a nurse at the children’s ward. One day, three boys were admitted to the hospital and they were put under my care. Their files said they’re from an orphanage and, I don’t know, I guess, my heart just went to them.”
Yunho nodded. He too would feel the same under such situation.
“They were under my care for a week and I guess, we bonded and I don’t want to let them go. It probably sounds crazy since we’ve only been together a week but I already loved them at that time. So, yeah, I adopted them.” He ended his story with a smile, a tear dropped from his eyes and he wiped it away.
“It’s not crazy.”
“Huh?”
“You loving them. I’ve only been with them for two days and I love them already.”
Suddenly Jajeoong’s eyes sparkled and he looked at Yunho in so much adoration, and he smiled, the same smiled he had on his face when Yunho first said ‘I love you’ to him, ten years ago.
[][][][]
When they got home, Yunho helped Jaejoong bathed the boys. All three of them got into the bathtub while he and Jaejoong stayed at the edge of the tub, rubbing soap on their body and shampooing their hair. The boys were very active, adrenaline still ran through them from the excitement of visiting the zoo today.
He and Jaejoong ended up wet when the boys declare war on them. Splashing water and throwing rubber ducks at them. The small bathroom filled with laughter and squealed of excitement as he and Jaejoong retaliated and sprayed the boys with water using the shower hose.
The house had just calmed down. Jaejoong put the boys to sleep. He wished good night to Yunho first before he too proceeds to enter his bedroom. Now Yunho sat alone on the bed, thinking. Weighing his options. Making decisions.
Clearly Jaejoong was happy, with his life, with his family. Besides, Jaejoong didn’t even remember him anymore. There was no use for him to be here anymore. He should go back to his own life.
He had decided, early in the morning tomorrow, he’s going back to Gwangju.
That night Yunho cried himself to sleep.
[][][][]
Jaejoong went about his day, preparing breakfast for his sons and their guest. Last night it took him a long time to fall to sleep. His mind keeps drifting off to their young guest. Jaejoong sighed, the strangers, the young boy had felt so familiar to him but he doesn’t want to get his hope up. And when he introduced himself as Lee Yunho, Jaejoong accepted that he’s not the one. Still, the teenager reminded him of his child lover.
How would My Yunho looks like now?
Will he still have his crooked teeth or his chubby cheek?
Did he grow up well?
Does he look like this Yunho?
Jaejoong shook his blonde head out of his imagination and smiled to himself.
Just then, Changmin padded out of his room to the dining table, hands rubbing his sleepy eyes.
“Morning, honey.” He greeted Changmin.
“Hi, appa,” Changmin waved dispassionately at him. Changmin had always been a bit closed off, not showing affection as openly as Yoochun and Junsu but Jaejoong knows deep down the boy loves his family.
“Can you help wake Yunho up?” Jaejoong asked sweetly and snickered when Changmin grumbled in annoyance but the boy still obeyed, dragging his feet to the guest bedroom.
“Appa!” Changmin rushed to him. “Yunho hyung is not in his room.”
“What?” Jaejoong the knife in his hand onto the counter and went to the guest room to see for himself.
There was no sign of Yunho in the room. Jaejoong searched around the room. His back pack is gone too, he noted. Then his eyes caught the sight of a piece of paper on the desk by the window. He took it and read.
Dear Jaejoong,
Thank you for letting me stay with you and letting me be part of your family. To Junsu, Yoochun, and Changmin, I love you guys.
Jung Yunho.
Along with the note, there’s a picture. A picture of him and his Yunho, Jaejoong gasped. But why does Yunho have a picture of him and his Yunho? He recognized the picture that was taken 10 years ago. Yunho had been crying at his farewell party and they took the picture after Yunho had finally calmed down.
Yunho have this picture, and the note! It was signed by Jung Yunho. Jung Yunho! - so it can only mean one thing.
A sharp pain constricted in Jaejoong’s chest as his heart throbbed. His legs felt weak and he dropped down onto the bed, holding the picture closed to his heart.
“Appa, why are you crying?”
Yoochun had approached him. He looked at Changmin and Junsu who’s standing at the door frame, staring at him. Was he crying? He didn’t even realize that he was.
My Yunho.
[][][][]
Yunho was waiting for his bus at the terminal. He subconsciously pulled down the cap on his head hopefully it will cover his swollen eyes. After all he had been crying all night and he still can feel tears welling up in his eyes, but it’s embarrassing for a man to cry in public.
A hard slap to his back made him jumped in surprised. He turned around to lash out at the culprit but instead he was faced with Jaejoong. Hair strewn out of place, tear streaked face and red cheeks, flushing from anger.
“You lied to me!” The blonde hissed at him.
Yunho blinked, staring blankly at a fuming Jaejoong.
“You promised me. You promised you will come for me and I waited! Waited for you all these years. Now that you’ve found me, you’re just going to leave me?” He all but shrieked as fresh tears run down his cheeks.
“I-I…”
“Jung Yunho, you idiot.” He said to him but with no malice at all, instead the word was full of affection and Yunho finally moved from his statue-like state.
Yunho pulled Jaejoong into his embrace, feeling the blonde’s weak struggle, punches against his chest before finally he calmed down and put his hand around Yunho too.
“How dare you try to leave me,” Jaejoong said against his chest. The guy was shorter and smaller than Yunho’s larger frame making him fit directly into his hold.
Yunho sighed. This is it. This is the feeling he was looking for. Jaejoong complete him so much.
“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. You just looked so happy with your life and I’m sure your wife is-“
“What?” Jaejoong lifted his head from Yunho’s chest but didn’t move from his embrace. “Wife? There’s no wife, Yunho.”
Yunho was bewildered. “But your sons-“
“Adopted, remember. I don’t have wife. I’ve never got married. I’ve been waiting for you,” he punched Yunho’s chest to prove his point. His chest is nicely muscled, Jaejoong noted, smirking in his head. “There has never been anyone else other than you.”
“I thought she was away for work, or something.” Now Yunho felt stupid. “I don’t know what to say,” Yunho said, dejected.
Jaejoong smiled at him, he reached up his hands to cup Yunho’s face. “I kinda miss your chubby cheeks,” he said affectionately before pinching the teenage boy’s said cheeks.
“Well, I don’t,” Yunho finally let out a small smile.
“You’ve grown so tall. Do you still want to make me your ‘girlfriend’?”
“Yes!” Yunho enthusiastically nodded. “You’re my first love. I have drunk every gallon of milk on this planet Earth just so that I get taller for you, so I damn well demanded you to be my girlfriend.”
Jaejoong giggled at Yunho’s child-like behaviour. “Then, kiss me.” Jaejoong breathlessly said, looking right into Yunho’s eyes.
Yunho leaned down, a breath away from Jaejoong’s lips, he stopped. “With pleasure,” he whispered against his boyfriend’s lips before claiming it with his own.
[][][][]
Inside a car parked by the road, three small heads plastered against the car’s glass window. When a blonde guy and a taller brunette walked towards the car hand in hand, they whooped! in laughter.
Changmin had a smug smile on his face. “See, I told you Yunho hyung will be staying with us.” He said to Yoochun and Junsu.
“Su, we’re going to get a new appa!” Yoochun excitedly hugged Junsu.
“But we already have appa?” Junsu blinked his eyes in confusion.
Yoochun patted Junsu’s cute head and cheerfully explained to him. “Now, appa will be umma and Yunho hyung will be appa!”
“Oh!” Junsu and Yoochun clapped their hands like seal and started singing their hearts out.
Changmin rolled his eyes at his brothers. “Idiots.”
end
23rd July 2014
sylchunnie