Weighing on My Heart
Rating: PG-13 for minor swearing
Summary: All Baekhyun wanted was to be fit and workout but this cute boy at
the gym won't let him focus.
Pairing: xiubaek
AN: Reposting! Wrote this for exo university's fest~ Thank you.
Fitness and Health. Being Happy and Confident.
Those were Baekhyun’s primary goals this semester, written in capital letters on a whiteboard hanging above his desk with an “and get laid” crossed out in red marker since his roommate Jongdae had decided to write it in in permanent sharpie. Junmyeon, Jongdae and his friend, had dragged them to some seminar about de-stressing life and school and healthy lifestyles last semester. While Baekhyun had gone in completely unwillingly, he came back out inspired, and vowed to sign up for their local gym right away before Junmyeon had belatedly pointed out that they had a fitness center on campus and he had no reason to go elsewhere.
Jongdae laughed at him, but honestly, he couldn’t blame Baekhyun for not knowing. It’s not like he ever went anywhere besides his classes and clubs. He didn’t want to just start going to the gym at the end of the semester though; Baekhyun wanted a fresh start, so he waited (read: procrastinated) to begin his new lifestyle until the start of the next one. He had late night choir practice near the center on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so he decided to make those his fitness nights since he got out pretty late (usually after ten). He found out the center was open twenty-four hours, but hopefully there wouldn’t be that many students out that late. He’d rather struggle alone.
Baekhyun pushed through the doors carefully, letting out a relieved breath when he only saw three or four other students on the treadmills. One girl had her textbook open on the machine, probably cramming, while the others had on earphones. He nodded to the staff present before shyly going up to some bicycle-looking contraption. He’d never been to a gym before. What was he even supposed to do?
The staff member seemed to notice his inner turmoil and kindly went up to him, explaining to him how to use the machines. He thanked her and plugged in his headphones, blasting some old school ballads as he built up a pedaling rhythm. He looked around the room and noticed another student he hadn’t seen before on the weights. His foot slipped out of the foot hold, and with his own momentum, he managed to hit the back of his ankle on it. He let out a semi-loud curse, earning a look of slight irritation and amusement from the employee who happened to be walking by and witnessed the whole scenario, as he stopped pedaling and grabbed his leg in pain.
He honestly didn’t care though, because hot damn, he’d just seen the finest human being lifting some heavy-looking weights without even breaking a sweat. If he could lift those easily, Baekhyun had no doubt he could probably lift him into his bed, and woah, he stopped himself quickly. “Calm down, Byun Baekhyun. Jongdae’s getting to you,” he whispered to himself. He was sure his racing heart wasn’t just from the ten minutes of pedaling he’d just done.
He went back to his exercise, blasting some upbeat pop song as he tried to calm down. He was here to get fit. That was it. It didn’t stop him from casting the occasional glance at the boy though, marveling at the way his arms glistened once he finally did start sweating, the muscles moving as he exercised. He took note of his height when he stood up to fetch some water, noting that he was about the same height, maybe a tad bit taller than himself. Perfect to cuddle with. He was pedaling much too slowly at that point, his attention fully on the handsome boy, and the machine was asking him if he was done. Baekhyun decided then that he was indeed done. His life was over after seeing the boy at the gym, he thought as he watched him exit the room, and maybe it was wishful thinking, but he could have sworn he saw him glance Baekhyun’s way.
“I love working out!” he announced as he entered his dorm at midnight, prompting Jongdae to throw a pillow at him and tell him to shut up. Baekhyun didn’t even feel it, getting ready for bed as he imagined scenarios where he and the boy from the gym would meet and have a perfect life with their kids all exercising together. He slapped himself before going to sleep. You don’t even know his name, Byun.
He woke up the next morning feeling like his bed was made of steel. He groaned as he shifted his body, finding Jongdae awake with a bowl of cereal held out for him to take. But moving hurt.
“How was the gym?” his roommate questioned with a smirk after seeing him wince.
“I’m dying. I’m never going back.”
“Really? You sounded pretty happy when you came back,” he pressed, setting the cereal down at his bedside table for Baekhyun to eat when he was ready.
Baekhyun remembered the boy from the gym then and sat bolt upright in bed with a gasp, only to flop back down with a pained whimper. “That was before I woke up sore. Do I have to go to class?”
Jongdae raised a questioning eyebrow at his behavior, and Baekhyun confessed with a sigh. “I met someone.”
If Jongdae’s eyebrows went any higher, they would fly off his face, “Who?”
“I... don’t know. He was working out at the gym. And he’s perfect. And muscular. And totally my type.”
“Well maybe next time you go you can get his name. Make that your motivation,” Jongdae supplied.
Baekhyun got up, ignoring the groaning from his muscles, “You’re right. Fitness and health. Happy and confident. I gotta keep at it.” He grabbed the cereal and scarfed it down, ignoring the fact that it didn’t quite fit into the “health” part of his goals.
The following Thursday, Baekhyun had sprinted to the fitness center right after practice and made it there before ten. He glanced around anxiously (with what he thought was subtlety), and felt his heart drop when he noticed the absence of Gym Boy. He greeted the ever-present staff and sat down at some arm contraption with a sigh. He read through the instructions carefully and positioned himself at the machine, double checking his actions with the pictures provided, and started to pull, only to be met with strong resistance from the machine.
He nearly fell off the machine when a quiet laugh sounded from behind him. “You need some help?” the voice asked, and Baekhyun felt himself falling yet again as he saw that the boyish voice belonged to none other than Gym Boy and holy shit he was even better looking up close: sharp, catlike features contrasting with round hamster-like cheeks, and Baekhyun was sure his face was red. But Baekhyun was stubborn.
“No,” he said a bit too loudly while quickly turning around, “I’m a pro.” He pulled at the machine again to no avail. “The machine’s just broken.”
He glanced at Gym Boy, who was now at his side with an amused grin and a skeptically raised eyebrow. “Really?” Gym Boy said coyly. “That’s weird, ‘cause I just used this machine before going to the bathroom and it was working just fine, Mr. Pro.”
“You must have broken it,” Baekhyun mumbled, trying not to think about how their butts indirectly touched.
Gym Boy let out a laugh at that, and wow he had to stop being so perfect, Baekhyun lamented, because that was definitely a sound he wanted to hear again.
“Here,” Gym Boy said, leaning down to adjust the machine’s weight to twenty pounds. “It should work now.”
Baekhyun pulled on the handles again, eyes widening in glee at the machine working before mortification set in. He made himself look like a total fool in front of Gym Boy during their first meeting. His dream of the perfect meeting had been crushed. He looked back at Gym Boy who was still watching him as if this was the funniest thing that had ever happened to him.
He stood up quickly, “I knew that. I’m just gonna go do something else. You can have the machine back.”
“Do you need help with ‘something else’ too, Mr. Pro?” Gym Boy said, fingers moving to form air quotations and giving him a wink.
Baekhyun glared at him in indignation, not able to stop his face from coloring yet again. “No thanks, Gym Boy.”
“My name’s Kim Minseok,” he called after Baekhyun.
“I didn’t ask,” he hissed back, trudging towards the other side of the room.
Baekhyun slammed the door to his dorm open at eleven announcing, “I’m gonna be the fittest, most experienced gym go-er ever. I will live, eat, and breathe the gym.”
The lump named Jongdae shifted slightly before making a noise of agreement and going back to steady breathing.
Baekhyun let out a breath of determination before marching over to the bathroom to take a shower where he gave himself a pep talk and definitely didn’t have indecent thoughts about his new rival. He was determined to regain his dignity, and he would definitely impress Kim Minseok. He’d show him Byun Baekhyun was not to be taken lightly.
It was Saturday night and Junmyeon had taken him and Jongdae out to a nightclub to celebrate the start of the new semester. They wove their way through the haze of the crowd; it was still early in the night, so people were filtering in slowly as the DJ played some chill hip hop song to warm up the atmosphere. They found an empty booth near the far end of the club where they sat down to sip at their drinks. Baekhyun chose not to get one just yet. He wanted to enjoy the club and people before getting wasted.
Junmyeon grunted suddenly, “Oh, I invited my friend from bingo club to come. He should be here soon.”
Jongdae spit out his drink, “We have a bingo club on campus?”
Baekhyun couldn’t hold in his laughter, “Oh gosh, he’s probably a grandpa on the inside like you. Wait, he’s not actually a grandpa, is he? Please tell me we’re not gonna party with a senior citizen.”
Junmyeon glared at both of them. “We do have a bingo club, and I’ll have you know it is extremely fun and hip. And no; he’s only a year older than me.”
Baekhyun whistled playfully, not noticing Junmyeon’s attention shifting to behind him, “Well is he hot and single?”
“I am single, but you’ll have to be the judge for my temperature,” a familiar voice spoke into his ear, the exhale giving him goosebumps across his neck. He closed his eyes momentarily, relishing the warmth behind him before reacting.
He turned sharply, his guard up. “What are you doing here Kim Minseok?”
Minseok’s lips formed a lopsided smile at his words, “You remembered my name. But I still don’t know yours.”
Baekhyun shot him a glare. “You don’t need to know.” Embarrassment shot through his veins at the reminder of his last encounter with the boy.
But at the same time, from across the table, Junmyeon had spoken up. “You know Baekhyun?”
Mentioned boy gave a sigh of defeat and looked away, noticing the triumphant smile on Minseok’s face who was still too close for comfort. He sat himself next to Baekhyun suddenly, scooting him towards the wall and making room, ignoring Baekhyun’s indignant shout. “Yeah, we met at the gym,” the older boy informed the other. Jongdae choked on his drink then, wide eyes looking at Baekhyun in question as he tried to control his wheezing. Baekhyun made a point not to make eye contact with his roommate as to not give anything away, but it was too late. Jongdae turned towards Minseok with newfound interest.
“Hello,” he said, elongating the word more than necessary, eyes raking up the newcomers body as to confirm everything Baekhyun said. “I’m Jongdae and I’m friends with these two losers. It’s nice to meet you,” he winked and Baekhyun really wanted to die. Especially since he was still sandwiched between his gym crush rival and the wall and the warmth exuding from the other was driving him crazy and was Minseok wearing a mesh shirt? He needed to get away.
“I’m gonna get something to drink,” Baekhyun announced, standing.
“I’ll go with you,” Minseok volunteered instantly, stepping aside so Baekhyun could leave the booth.
Baekhyun rolled his eyes, “I’m capable of getting my own drink.”
“Who said I was helping you get yours? I’m also in need of a drink,” Minseok smirked seeing Baekhyun get flustered at his words.
“Do what you want,” the younger boy pouted before heading off towards the bar, Minseok trailing after him.
Junmyeon and Jongdae looked towards each other once they were gone.
“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Junmyeon said, looking at the retreating pair uneasily.
“Oh yeah. Baekhyun might finally get laid,” Jongdae said, downing his shot.
“What?” Junmyeon looked over in surprise, “I was thinking they might forget about us and only get their own drinks. Who’s Baekhyun getting laid with?”
Jongdae sighed in distaste, “Why am I friends with you again?”
“Because you love me,” Junmyeon sing-songed, making finger guns at him.
Jongdae really hoped the sudden heat he felt rush to his cheeks was due to the alcohol.
Minseok glanced at Baekhyun once they arrived at the bar and motioned for him to sit next to
him. “What do you want? I’ll pay for you,” he half-shouted since it was harder to hear closer to the dance floor.
Baekhyun’s eyes widened. “I can pay for myself.” Did he look poor to Minseok?
But Minseok just gave him a soft smile. “I don’t doubt it, but I insist.”
Baekhyun looked at him warily before agreeing. They drank in silence, the music making it hard to communicate, with Baekhyun refusing to look at Minseok, not realising the other was staring at him the whole time.
“Hey,” Minseok’s voice hummed by his ear again startling him out of his thoughts. Had he been that close this whole time? Baekhyun briefly wondered.
“Do you wanna dance?” Minseok asked him.
Baekhyun smirked, regaining his composure, “Are you sure you can handle it, bingo club member?”
“What can I say?” Minseok said, a smug look on his face as he grabbed Baekhyun’s hand before pulling him up close to his chest so he could whisper in his ear. “I know how to play with balls.”
Baekhyun spluttered, letting out a squeak as he was pulled towards the mob of people grinding on each other to the beat of some upbeat EDM song. They started out facing each other, respectful space between them as they got the feel of the beat and got comfortable. It wasn’t long before Baekhyun’s hands found themselves secured around Minseok’s neck, with the elder’s hands gripping his waist tightly.
They kept the small distance for a few songs, testing each other, when a strobe light hit them at just the right angle and Baekhyun got a full view of Minseok’s front and he felt his knees go weak. He felt one of Minseok's hands lower, gliding down his satin shirt with ease and coming to a stop dangerously close to his ass. He looked up and was met with mischievous eyes.
“Like what you see?” Minseok teased, but Baekhyun wouldn't go down this time. Two could play this game.
He looked Minseok in the eyes before rolling his head back, making sure to give the older boy a nice view of his neck and the bit of torso his two popped open buttons revealed before replying, “Maybe.” He smirked once he felt Minseok’s grip tighten, pulling him closer. They kept a staring contest going, a silent dare in their eyes, challenging each other to make the next move.
Soon Baekhyun found his hand playing with the hem of Minseok’s shirt, he didn't remember putting it there but he couldn't resist slipping a hand under and touching his abdomen lightly, trailing a finger up towards his chest. He let out a small groan when he felt one of Minseok’s hands squeeze his butt cheek to bring him even closer, Baekhyun's hand trapped between their bodies.
Minseok nosed along Baekhyun’s neck before pulling back again, “Wanna get another drink?”
Baekhyun nodded, following Minseok back to the bar. He didn't know if he should be disappointed or relieved that they had stopped before going further.
They got their drinks at the bar, Minseok paying once again, and headed back to where the two Kims were still in their seats with Jongdae passed out on Junmyeon’s shoulder. “I think we're gonna head out,” Junmyeon greeted them, looking over at the unconscious man softly, “He had too much to drink already. I'm gonna take him home. Baekhyun, do you want me to drop you off or would you rather stay?”
Baekhyun glanced briefly at Minseok, wondering if he should stay, but the elder beat him to it. “I think I'm gonna head out too. It was nice hanging with you guys,” he said amicably, patting Baekhyun’s butt and sending him a sultry look.
Baekhyun pointedly ignored the weight on his behind. He wouldn't give him the satisfaction of a reaction. “I'll head out with you too Myeon,” he replied, moving to help pick up their fallen friend.
“I can carry him,” Minseok offered, lifting Jongdae bridal style, and Baekhyun had never felt more jealous of his friend. They deposited Jongdae in Junmyeon’s car and said their goodbyes, Baekhyun hopping in the car quickly so as to not face Minseok for longer than necessary. He caved when they were leaving the parking look and looked back, surprised to see Minseok still standing there, staring at their car longingly as they drove off.
Baekhyun walked into the gym the following Tuesday night praying that he wouldn't see Minseok. He wasn't ready to face him after Saturday night. But, of course, luck wasn't on his side. He locked eyes with the other male as soon as he settled on the treadmill and started to walk. He rolled his eyes and ignored Minseok's smirk as the other made his way over.
“It seems like every day is leg day for you, Baekhyun,” he greeted.
“And it looks like every day is abs day for you, Minseok.”
The older boy shrugged. “I like my abs. And it looked like you did too on Saturday night.”
Baekhyun blushed. “Yeah, well I like my nutella just fine.”
Minseok blinked in confusion. “Nutella?”
“You know how abs like yours are called chocolate abs? Well mine are melted so they're nutella,” he explained matter-of-factly. Minseok stared at him for a second before bursting into laughter. “What?” Baekhyun pouted at him.
Minseok waved him off. “You're really funny.”
“Aren't you gonna exercise?” Baekhyun grumbled.
“Oh, you’d love to see that, wouldn't you?” Minseok said, getting onto the neighboring treadmill with a wink.
“Stop talking nonsense. You're the last thing I wanna see right now,” Baekhyun said.
“Really? Because I remember you almost falling off the machine on your first day here just to look at me.”
Baekhyun turned to look at Minseok quickly, embarrassment running through him as he rushed to defend himself, “I was not-”
His movement was too sudden for the momentum he had built, and he ended up tripping over his feet and falling off the treadmill and onto his butt.
“Oh shit; Baekhyun, are you ok?” Minseok rushed to his side as the gym employee ran over with a first aid kit.
“I'm fine,” Baekhyun assured, trying to stand up when he felt a sharp sting on his leg.
“You're bleeding!” Minseok exclaimed.
“It's just a small cut,” he said and asked the staff member for a band aid.
“I'll take that, Thank you,” Minseok said.
“Are you sure you're not hurt anywhere else?” the staff member asked. She left after assuring
he was fine.
Minseok dabbed away some of the blood with his clean towel, and blew on the cut lightly before placing the band aid in its place.
“Sorry for acting so arrogant earlier,” Minseok said, still examining his wound, “I got a little carried away; it's too fun to tease you.”
“Jongdae says the same thing,” Baekhyun sighed, standing up successfully this time. He walked over to a bench and sat to rest.
Minseok joined him shortly, bringing both of their things with him.
“You know,” he started softly, “The only reason I noticed you looking at me when you first came in was because I was looking at you too.”
Baekhyun stopped in the middle of drinking water, swallowing heavily and staring at the other. “What?”
Minseok looked flustered for once, “You caught my attention when you first walked in, obviously new to the gym, and then I caught you checking me out and I was pretty flattered because you're pretty cute, and your reactions are adorable, so I thought I’d like to get to know you better. And then next time I came by I was pretty disappointed not to see you, but then when I came back from the bathroom you were in my seat; it was like fate. But I didn’t even manage to get your name. I didn’t expect you to be friends with Junmyeon, but I’m glad we ran into each other on Saturday again. It feels like the world is making us run into each other almost.”
Baekhyun was stunned after Minseok’s monologue, staring pensively at the boy. “Let’s go on a date then,” he said suddenly.
Minseok looked back at him, shock quickly shaping into joy on his face, “Really?”
“Sure. You think I’m cute, I think you’re cute, and clearly the universe thinks we’re cute together, so why not?”
“Then… are you free tomorrow at 7? There's a movie I really wanna see,” Minseok suggested.
“So soon?” Baekhyun joked with a wink. “Are you sure it's the movie you really wanna see?”
“Hmm… Maybe you have something to do with it,” Minseok said playfully.
“I'm free,” Baekhyun said with a smile, handing Minseok his phone, “I'll text you my dorm address.”
“How about I walk you home and you can show me how to get there?” Minseok suggested after inputting his number.
Can you not be perfect for a second, Baekhyun thought as his heart sped up. He ultimately agreed, and they left the gym that day together.
They played the same game on Saturday, keeping the respectful distance of acquaintances for as long as they could before slowly gravitating towards each other. It was Minseok’s hand that brushed against his first, but Baekhyun was the one to intertwine their fingers.
“You know,” Minseok started, breaking the silence once they were almost near Baekhyun’s dorms, “We never properly introduced ourselves.”
Baekhyun laughed before turning to Minseok, separating their hands briefly to offer his again for a handshake. “Well my name's Byun Baekhyun, and I'm gonna be the coolest person at the gym soon. You're going down.”
“Really now?” Minseok said amused, “Well I'm Kim Minseok and I think you're the cutest person ever, so maybe you already took me down.”
Baekhyun tripped at Minseok’s words, not used to being on the receiving end of such praise, but luckily the elder was there to catch him.
“You've got to stop falling for me, Byun Baekhyun,” Minseok whispered in his ear.
“Do you have an ear fetish?” Baekhyun blurted out without thinking.
Minseok laughed, still holding Baekhyun close. “I don't think so, but I do like yours, so maybe I have a fetish for you.”
Baekhyun hit his chest in embarrassment, trying to pull away, “Just take me home you old man.”
Finally they reached Baekhyun’s dorm, saying goodnight to each other with a promise for tomorrow. Baekhyun’s phone rang with a text notification as he was about to fall asleep, a
wide smile blooming on his face as he saw the sender.
From: Minseok ❤
Good night Baek 😘
From: Byun Baek
Go to sleep :p
From: Minseok ❤
I think you’d be great as a Kim. Sorry was that too forward?
Baekhyun blushed hard, trying to calm his breathing before composing a reply.
From: Byun Baek
It wasn’t. How do you know you won't make a great Byun tho?
This prompted a series of playful arguing, until it was two A.M and Baekhyun really had to go because he had a class at nine in the morning. They said “see you later” this time, because as Baekhyun put it, it was already the next day.
Our first day, Baekhyun thought before chiding himself at how greasy that was, and buried himself in his blankets, the feeling of anticipation strong, and a light feeling in his heart. Fitness and Health. Being happy and confident, Baekhyun read the whiteboard happily, he was well on his way to achieving his goals. He ignored the part that added, “and get laid,” flushing as he finally drifted off to sleep.
Summary: All Baekhyun wanted was to be fit and workout but this cute boy at
the gym won't let him focus.
Pairing: xiubaek
AN: Reposting! Wrote this for exo university's fest~ Thank you.
Fitness and Health. Being Happy and Confident.
Those were Baekhyun’s primary goals this semester, written in capital letters on a whiteboard hanging above his desk with an “and get laid” crossed out in red marker since his roommate Jongdae had decided to write it in in permanent sharpie. Junmyeon, Jongdae and his friend, had dragged them to some seminar about de-stressing life and school and healthy lifestyles last semester. While Baekhyun had gone in completely unwillingly, he came back out inspired, and vowed to sign up for their local gym right away before Junmyeon had belatedly pointed out that they had a fitness center on campus and he had no reason to go elsewhere.
Jongdae laughed at him, but honestly, he couldn’t blame Baekhyun for not knowing. It’s not like he ever went anywhere besides his classes and clubs. He didn’t want to just start going to the gym at the end of the semester though; Baekhyun wanted a fresh start, so he waited (read: procrastinated) to begin his new lifestyle until the start of the next one. He had late night choir practice near the center on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so he decided to make those his fitness nights since he got out pretty late (usually after ten). He found out the center was open twenty-four hours, but hopefully there wouldn’t be that many students out that late. He’d rather struggle alone.
Baekhyun pushed through the doors carefully, letting out a relieved breath when he only saw three or four other students on the treadmills. One girl had her textbook open on the machine, probably cramming, while the others had on earphones. He nodded to the staff present before shyly going up to some bicycle-looking contraption. He’d never been to a gym before. What was he even supposed to do?
The staff member seemed to notice his inner turmoil and kindly went up to him, explaining to him how to use the machines. He thanked her and plugged in his headphones, blasting some old school ballads as he built up a pedaling rhythm. He looked around the room and noticed another student he hadn’t seen before on the weights. His foot slipped out of the foot hold, and with his own momentum, he managed to hit the back of his ankle on it. He let out a semi-loud curse, earning a look of slight irritation and amusement from the employee who happened to be walking by and witnessed the whole scenario, as he stopped pedaling and grabbed his leg in pain.
He honestly didn’t care though, because hot damn, he’d just seen the finest human being lifting some heavy-looking weights without even breaking a sweat. If he could lift those easily, Baekhyun had no doubt he could probably lift him into his bed, and woah, he stopped himself quickly. “Calm down, Byun Baekhyun. Jongdae’s getting to you,” he whispered to himself. He was sure his racing heart wasn’t just from the ten minutes of pedaling he’d just done.
He went back to his exercise, blasting some upbeat pop song as he tried to calm down. He was here to get fit. That was it. It didn’t stop him from casting the occasional glance at the boy though, marveling at the way his arms glistened once he finally did start sweating, the muscles moving as he exercised. He took note of his height when he stood up to fetch some water, noting that he was about the same height, maybe a tad bit taller than himself. Perfect to cuddle with. He was pedaling much too slowly at that point, his attention fully on the handsome boy, and the machine was asking him if he was done. Baekhyun decided then that he was indeed done. His life was over after seeing the boy at the gym, he thought as he watched him exit the room, and maybe it was wishful thinking, but he could have sworn he saw him glance Baekhyun’s way.
“I love working out!” he announced as he entered his dorm at midnight, prompting Jongdae to throw a pillow at him and tell him to shut up. Baekhyun didn’t even feel it, getting ready for bed as he imagined scenarios where he and the boy from the gym would meet and have a perfect life with their kids all exercising together. He slapped himself before going to sleep. You don’t even know his name, Byun.
He woke up the next morning feeling like his bed was made of steel. He groaned as he shifted his body, finding Jongdae awake with a bowl of cereal held out for him to take. But moving hurt.
“How was the gym?” his roommate questioned with a smirk after seeing him wince.
“I’m dying. I’m never going back.”
“Really? You sounded pretty happy when you came back,” he pressed, setting the cereal down at his bedside table for Baekhyun to eat when he was ready.
Baekhyun remembered the boy from the gym then and sat bolt upright in bed with a gasp, only to flop back down with a pained whimper. “That was before I woke up sore. Do I have to go to class?”
Jongdae raised a questioning eyebrow at his behavior, and Baekhyun confessed with a sigh. “I met someone.”
If Jongdae’s eyebrows went any higher, they would fly off his face, “Who?”
“I... don’t know. He was working out at the gym. And he’s perfect. And muscular. And totally my type.”
“Well maybe next time you go you can get his name. Make that your motivation,” Jongdae supplied.
Baekhyun got up, ignoring the groaning from his muscles, “You’re right. Fitness and health. Happy and confident. I gotta keep at it.” He grabbed the cereal and scarfed it down, ignoring the fact that it didn’t quite fit into the “health” part of his goals.
The following Thursday, Baekhyun had sprinted to the fitness center right after practice and made it there before ten. He glanced around anxiously (with what he thought was subtlety), and felt his heart drop when he noticed the absence of Gym Boy. He greeted the ever-present staff and sat down at some arm contraption with a sigh. He read through the instructions carefully and positioned himself at the machine, double checking his actions with the pictures provided, and started to pull, only to be met with strong resistance from the machine.
He nearly fell off the machine when a quiet laugh sounded from behind him. “You need some help?” the voice asked, and Baekhyun felt himself falling yet again as he saw that the boyish voice belonged to none other than Gym Boy and holy shit he was even better looking up close: sharp, catlike features contrasting with round hamster-like cheeks, and Baekhyun was sure his face was red. But Baekhyun was stubborn.
“No,” he said a bit too loudly while quickly turning around, “I’m a pro.” He pulled at the machine again to no avail. “The machine’s just broken.”
He glanced at Gym Boy, who was now at his side with an amused grin and a skeptically raised eyebrow. “Really?” Gym Boy said coyly. “That’s weird, ‘cause I just used this machine before going to the bathroom and it was working just fine, Mr. Pro.”
“You must have broken it,” Baekhyun mumbled, trying not to think about how their butts indirectly touched.
Gym Boy let out a laugh at that, and wow he had to stop being so perfect, Baekhyun lamented, because that was definitely a sound he wanted to hear again.
“Here,” Gym Boy said, leaning down to adjust the machine’s weight to twenty pounds. “It should work now.”
Baekhyun pulled on the handles again, eyes widening in glee at the machine working before mortification set in. He made himself look like a total fool in front of Gym Boy during their first meeting. His dream of the perfect meeting had been crushed. He looked back at Gym Boy who was still watching him as if this was the funniest thing that had ever happened to him.
He stood up quickly, “I knew that. I’m just gonna go do something else. You can have the machine back.”
“Do you need help with ‘something else’ too, Mr. Pro?” Gym Boy said, fingers moving to form air quotations and giving him a wink.
Baekhyun glared at him in indignation, not able to stop his face from coloring yet again. “No thanks, Gym Boy.”
“My name’s Kim Minseok,” he called after Baekhyun.
“I didn’t ask,” he hissed back, trudging towards the other side of the room.
Baekhyun slammed the door to his dorm open at eleven announcing, “I’m gonna be the fittest, most experienced gym go-er ever. I will live, eat, and breathe the gym.”
The lump named Jongdae shifted slightly before making a noise of agreement and going back to steady breathing.
Baekhyun let out a breath of determination before marching over to the bathroom to take a shower where he gave himself a pep talk and definitely didn’t have indecent thoughts about his new rival. He was determined to regain his dignity, and he would definitely impress Kim Minseok. He’d show him Byun Baekhyun was not to be taken lightly.
It was Saturday night and Junmyeon had taken him and Jongdae out to a nightclub to celebrate the start of the new semester. They wove their way through the haze of the crowd; it was still early in the night, so people were filtering in slowly as the DJ played some chill hip hop song to warm up the atmosphere. They found an empty booth near the far end of the club where they sat down to sip at their drinks. Baekhyun chose not to get one just yet. He wanted to enjoy the club and people before getting wasted.
Junmyeon grunted suddenly, “Oh, I invited my friend from bingo club to come. He should be here soon.”
Jongdae spit out his drink, “We have a bingo club on campus?”
Baekhyun couldn’t hold in his laughter, “Oh gosh, he’s probably a grandpa on the inside like you. Wait, he’s not actually a grandpa, is he? Please tell me we’re not gonna party with a senior citizen.”
Junmyeon glared at both of them. “We do have a bingo club, and I’ll have you know it is extremely fun and hip. And no; he’s only a year older than me.”
Baekhyun whistled playfully, not noticing Junmyeon’s attention shifting to behind him, “Well is he hot and single?”
“I am single, but you’ll have to be the judge for my temperature,” a familiar voice spoke into his ear, the exhale giving him goosebumps across his neck. He closed his eyes momentarily, relishing the warmth behind him before reacting.
He turned sharply, his guard up. “What are you doing here Kim Minseok?”
Minseok’s lips formed a lopsided smile at his words, “You remembered my name. But I still don’t know yours.”
Baekhyun shot him a glare. “You don’t need to know.” Embarrassment shot through his veins at the reminder of his last encounter with the boy.
But at the same time, from across the table, Junmyeon had spoken up. “You know Baekhyun?”
Mentioned boy gave a sigh of defeat and looked away, noticing the triumphant smile on Minseok’s face who was still too close for comfort. He sat himself next to Baekhyun suddenly, scooting him towards the wall and making room, ignoring Baekhyun’s indignant shout. “Yeah, we met at the gym,” the older boy informed the other. Jongdae choked on his drink then, wide eyes looking at Baekhyun in question as he tried to control his wheezing. Baekhyun made a point not to make eye contact with his roommate as to not give anything away, but it was too late. Jongdae turned towards Minseok with newfound interest.
“Hello,” he said, elongating the word more than necessary, eyes raking up the newcomers body as to confirm everything Baekhyun said. “I’m Jongdae and I’m friends with these two losers. It’s nice to meet you,” he winked and Baekhyun really wanted to die. Especially since he was still sandwiched between his gym crush rival and the wall and the warmth exuding from the other was driving him crazy and was Minseok wearing a mesh shirt? He needed to get away.
“I’m gonna get something to drink,” Baekhyun announced, standing.
“I’ll go with you,” Minseok volunteered instantly, stepping aside so Baekhyun could leave the booth.
Baekhyun rolled his eyes, “I’m capable of getting my own drink.”
“Who said I was helping you get yours? I’m also in need of a drink,” Minseok smirked seeing Baekhyun get flustered at his words.
“Do what you want,” the younger boy pouted before heading off towards the bar, Minseok trailing after him.
Junmyeon and Jongdae looked towards each other once they were gone.
“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Junmyeon said, looking at the retreating pair uneasily.
“Oh yeah. Baekhyun might finally get laid,” Jongdae said, downing his shot.
“What?” Junmyeon looked over in surprise, “I was thinking they might forget about us and only get their own drinks. Who’s Baekhyun getting laid with?”
Jongdae sighed in distaste, “Why am I friends with you again?”
“Because you love me,” Junmyeon sing-songed, making finger guns at him.
Jongdae really hoped the sudden heat he felt rush to his cheeks was due to the alcohol.
Minseok glanced at Baekhyun once they arrived at the bar and motioned for him to sit next to
him. “What do you want? I’ll pay for you,” he half-shouted since it was harder to hear closer to the dance floor.
Baekhyun’s eyes widened. “I can pay for myself.” Did he look poor to Minseok?
But Minseok just gave him a soft smile. “I don’t doubt it, but I insist.”
Baekhyun looked at him warily before agreeing. They drank in silence, the music making it hard to communicate, with Baekhyun refusing to look at Minseok, not realising the other was staring at him the whole time.
“Hey,” Minseok’s voice hummed by his ear again startling him out of his thoughts. Had he been that close this whole time? Baekhyun briefly wondered.
“Do you wanna dance?” Minseok asked him.
Baekhyun smirked, regaining his composure, “Are you sure you can handle it, bingo club member?”
“What can I say?” Minseok said, a smug look on his face as he grabbed Baekhyun’s hand before pulling him up close to his chest so he could whisper in his ear. “I know how to play with balls.”
Baekhyun spluttered, letting out a squeak as he was pulled towards the mob of people grinding on each other to the beat of some upbeat EDM song. They started out facing each other, respectful space between them as they got the feel of the beat and got comfortable. It wasn’t long before Baekhyun’s hands found themselves secured around Minseok’s neck, with the elder’s hands gripping his waist tightly.
They kept the small distance for a few songs, testing each other, when a strobe light hit them at just the right angle and Baekhyun got a full view of Minseok’s front and he felt his knees go weak. He felt one of Minseok's hands lower, gliding down his satin shirt with ease and coming to a stop dangerously close to his ass. He looked up and was met with mischievous eyes.
“Like what you see?” Minseok teased, but Baekhyun wouldn't go down this time. Two could play this game.
He looked Minseok in the eyes before rolling his head back, making sure to give the older boy a nice view of his neck and the bit of torso his two popped open buttons revealed before replying, “Maybe.” He smirked once he felt Minseok’s grip tighten, pulling him closer. They kept a staring contest going, a silent dare in their eyes, challenging each other to make the next move.
Soon Baekhyun found his hand playing with the hem of Minseok’s shirt, he didn't remember putting it there but he couldn't resist slipping a hand under and touching his abdomen lightly, trailing a finger up towards his chest. He let out a small groan when he felt one of Minseok’s hands squeeze his butt cheek to bring him even closer, Baekhyun's hand trapped between their bodies.
Minseok nosed along Baekhyun’s neck before pulling back again, “Wanna get another drink?”
Baekhyun nodded, following Minseok back to the bar. He didn't know if he should be disappointed or relieved that they had stopped before going further.
They got their drinks at the bar, Minseok paying once again, and headed back to where the two Kims were still in their seats with Jongdae passed out on Junmyeon’s shoulder. “I think we're gonna head out,” Junmyeon greeted them, looking over at the unconscious man softly, “He had too much to drink already. I'm gonna take him home. Baekhyun, do you want me to drop you off or would you rather stay?”
Baekhyun glanced briefly at Minseok, wondering if he should stay, but the elder beat him to it. “I think I'm gonna head out too. It was nice hanging with you guys,” he said amicably, patting Baekhyun’s butt and sending him a sultry look.
Baekhyun pointedly ignored the weight on his behind. He wouldn't give him the satisfaction of a reaction. “I'll head out with you too Myeon,” he replied, moving to help pick up their fallen friend.
“I can carry him,” Minseok offered, lifting Jongdae bridal style, and Baekhyun had never felt more jealous of his friend. They deposited Jongdae in Junmyeon’s car and said their goodbyes, Baekhyun hopping in the car quickly so as to not face Minseok for longer than necessary. He caved when they were leaving the parking look and looked back, surprised to see Minseok still standing there, staring at their car longingly as they drove off.
Baekhyun walked into the gym the following Tuesday night praying that he wouldn't see Minseok. He wasn't ready to face him after Saturday night. But, of course, luck wasn't on his side. He locked eyes with the other male as soon as he settled on the treadmill and started to walk. He rolled his eyes and ignored Minseok's smirk as the other made his way over.
“It seems like every day is leg day for you, Baekhyun,” he greeted.
“And it looks like every day is abs day for you, Minseok.”
The older boy shrugged. “I like my abs. And it looked like you did too on Saturday night.”
Baekhyun blushed. “Yeah, well I like my nutella just fine.”
Minseok blinked in confusion. “Nutella?”
“You know how abs like yours are called chocolate abs? Well mine are melted so they're nutella,” he explained matter-of-factly. Minseok stared at him for a second before bursting into laughter. “What?” Baekhyun pouted at him.
Minseok waved him off. “You're really funny.”
“Aren't you gonna exercise?” Baekhyun grumbled.
“Oh, you’d love to see that, wouldn't you?” Minseok said, getting onto the neighboring treadmill with a wink.
“Stop talking nonsense. You're the last thing I wanna see right now,” Baekhyun said.
“Really? Because I remember you almost falling off the machine on your first day here just to look at me.”
Baekhyun turned to look at Minseok quickly, embarrassment running through him as he rushed to defend himself, “I was not-”
His movement was too sudden for the momentum he had built, and he ended up tripping over his feet and falling off the treadmill and onto his butt.
“Oh shit; Baekhyun, are you ok?” Minseok rushed to his side as the gym employee ran over with a first aid kit.
“I'm fine,” Baekhyun assured, trying to stand up when he felt a sharp sting on his leg.
“You're bleeding!” Minseok exclaimed.
“It's just a small cut,” he said and asked the staff member for a band aid.
“I'll take that, Thank you,” Minseok said.
“Are you sure you're not hurt anywhere else?” the staff member asked. She left after assuring
he was fine.
Minseok dabbed away some of the blood with his clean towel, and blew on the cut lightly before placing the band aid in its place.
“Sorry for acting so arrogant earlier,” Minseok said, still examining his wound, “I got a little carried away; it's too fun to tease you.”
“Jongdae says the same thing,” Baekhyun sighed, standing up successfully this time. He walked over to a bench and sat to rest.
Minseok joined him shortly, bringing both of their things with him.
“You know,” he started softly, “The only reason I noticed you looking at me when you first came in was because I was looking at you too.”
Baekhyun stopped in the middle of drinking water, swallowing heavily and staring at the other. “What?”
Minseok looked flustered for once, “You caught my attention when you first walked in, obviously new to the gym, and then I caught you checking me out and I was pretty flattered because you're pretty cute, and your reactions are adorable, so I thought I’d like to get to know you better. And then next time I came by I was pretty disappointed not to see you, but then when I came back from the bathroom you were in my seat; it was like fate. But I didn’t even manage to get your name. I didn’t expect you to be friends with Junmyeon, but I’m glad we ran into each other on Saturday again. It feels like the world is making us run into each other almost.”
Baekhyun was stunned after Minseok’s monologue, staring pensively at the boy. “Let’s go on a date then,” he said suddenly.
Minseok looked back at him, shock quickly shaping into joy on his face, “Really?”
“Sure. You think I’m cute, I think you’re cute, and clearly the universe thinks we’re cute together, so why not?”
“Then… are you free tomorrow at 7? There's a movie I really wanna see,” Minseok suggested.
“So soon?” Baekhyun joked with a wink. “Are you sure it's the movie you really wanna see?”
“Hmm… Maybe you have something to do with it,” Minseok said playfully.
“I'm free,” Baekhyun said with a smile, handing Minseok his phone, “I'll text you my dorm address.”
“How about I walk you home and you can show me how to get there?” Minseok suggested after inputting his number.
Can you not be perfect for a second, Baekhyun thought as his heart sped up. He ultimately agreed, and they left the gym that day together.
They played the same game on Saturday, keeping the respectful distance of acquaintances for as long as they could before slowly gravitating towards each other. It was Minseok’s hand that brushed against his first, but Baekhyun was the one to intertwine their fingers.
“You know,” Minseok started, breaking the silence once they were almost near Baekhyun’s dorms, “We never properly introduced ourselves.”
Baekhyun laughed before turning to Minseok, separating their hands briefly to offer his again for a handshake. “Well my name's Byun Baekhyun, and I'm gonna be the coolest person at the gym soon. You're going down.”
“Really now?” Minseok said amused, “Well I'm Kim Minseok and I think you're the cutest person ever, so maybe you already took me down.”
Baekhyun tripped at Minseok’s words, not used to being on the receiving end of such praise, but luckily the elder was there to catch him.
“You've got to stop falling for me, Byun Baekhyun,” Minseok whispered in his ear.
“Do you have an ear fetish?” Baekhyun blurted out without thinking.
Minseok laughed, still holding Baekhyun close. “I don't think so, but I do like yours, so maybe I have a fetish for you.”
Baekhyun hit his chest in embarrassment, trying to pull away, “Just take me home you old man.”
Finally they reached Baekhyun’s dorm, saying goodnight to each other with a promise for tomorrow. Baekhyun’s phone rang with a text notification as he was about to fall asleep, a
wide smile blooming on his face as he saw the sender.
From: Minseok ❤
Good night Baek 😘
From: Byun Baek
Go to sleep :p
From: Minseok ❤
I think you’d be great as a Kim. Sorry was that too forward?
Baekhyun blushed hard, trying to calm his breathing before composing a reply.
From: Byun Baek
It wasn’t. How do you know you won't make a great Byun tho?
This prompted a series of playful arguing, until it was two A.M and Baekhyun really had to go because he had a class at nine in the morning. They said “see you later” this time, because as Baekhyun put it, it was already the next day.
Our first day, Baekhyun thought before chiding himself at how greasy that was, and buried himself in his blankets, the feeling of anticipation strong, and a light feeling in his heart. Fitness and Health. Being happy and confident, Baekhyun read the whiteboard happily, he was well on his way to achieving his goals. He ignored the part that added, “and get laid,” flushing as he finally drifted off to sleep.