7 Days With A Certified Bastard [2]
Title: 7 Days With A Certified Bastard
Author: YukiBoo
Genre: Romance, Fluff, Humor, Slight Drama
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Foreign exchange student Kim Jaejoong agreed to help rebel Jung Yunho and nice guy Choi Dongwook to win over his cousin’s heart. An unexpected twist occurs when both men find themselves falling alarmingly fast for their little helper instead.
-Korean-
- English-
Wednesday
“So,” Jaejoong slurped on his smoothie as he and Yunho walked around the carnival. This would be the third possible date location that Jaejoong had suggested. The first one was the zoo and Yunho pulled him back in the car as soon as he saw the name. The second one was a beautiful beach nearby but Jaejoong decided that it was too good so he lied and told Yunho that Gyuri was allergic to the sun. “Can you think of any possible romantic situations that may occur here?” Well duh, it’s the classic carnival. He felt something vibrate in his pockets before he carefully fished out his cellphone from his back pocket.
From: Dream Boy
To: Jae
Subject: hey
Message: where are u?
“Yeah, sure.” Yunho murmured, still inspecting the place. The entrance fee was cheap and the food they sold at the stands were also affordable hence why Jaejoong carried a smoothie paid by Yunho. “Aren’t carnival dates too cliché though?”
From: Jae
To: Dream Boy
Subject: Re: hey
Message: not at school obviously =P
“A good dose of cliché is good once in a while.” Heh. Gyuri hates cliché dates. “I like them.” He added, expecting Yunho to retort with a biting ‘I don’t care about what you think’ or something but he got none. Jaejoong shrugged and thought that maybe Yunho was just in a good mood. His eyes continued to scan the place until they landed on the carnival games section. He fastened his pace and went straight to the stalls without warning his companion.
“Hey! Kim!” Yunho had no choice but to follow.
“Whoa, they have so many cool games! Oh! What’s that one? They don’t have this in Canada!” The shorter male ran back and forth towards different stalls, spending his coins on trying out the ones he found interesting and won little prizes on the way. “Hey spazz!” Jaejoong moved his head around trying to spot Yunho. He found the man standing in the middle of two stalls, staring at him. Jaejoong walked to where Yunho stood and jumped up to whack his head.
“What’s with that face? I know you’re not having the best time in your life right now but you gotta practice smiling tough guy, no one likes a grumpy face.” He lifted his index fingers and placed them on Yunho’s cheeks, pulling the soft skin up. His heart pounded faster when Yunho took hold of his wrists and leaned closer; invading Jaejoong’s personal space.
“I know how to smile.” The handsome man easily pulled his lips into a charming smile and Jaejoong couldn’t help a breathless sigh. In my head of course; God knows that this person doesn’t need anymore things to feed his gigantic ego.
“Good. Keep it.” He moved away from the smiling man only to realize that his smoothie was gone from his hands. “No!” He let out an agonized yell; that smoothie was good!
“Hey, what’s wrong?” He ignored Yunho’s question as his eyes darted around the mildly crowded place in hopes of finding his missing drink.
“Found you!” Jaejoong declared happily, spotting the white smoothie on one of the stalls he played at. He was about to dash over and claim the drink back when hands held his shoulders tightly, preventing him from going anywhere.
“Are you stupid?! Someone could’ve put something in that during the time you left it!”
“But it’s a carnival! Who would be cruel enough drug someone’s drink in a carnival?” Yunho stared at him incredulously before shaking his head and sighing. What? Fine! Oh all-knowing Jung Yunho.
“Ugh, fine. Let’s go check out their souvenir stores.” Jaejoong mumbled, gripping the hem of Yunho’s shirt to pull him along. However, the man wouldn’t budge. “Yunho-”
“I’ll buy you a new one.” The man was ready to walk to the nearest smoothie shop while Jaejoong stared on confusedly.
“What? No! It’s fine really. You already bought me one.”
“No, I’m buying it. Come here, choose a flavor.” Jaejoong slowly walked up beside Yunho, staring up at him with a small smile on his face. Yunho noticed this and forced a scowl on his face. “What?”
“I didn’t know that you’re such a softy Yunnie- can I call you that?”
“No.” Yunho growled lowly, throwing a glare towards his companion. His glares, however, have no effect on Jaejoong anymore.
“I want taro.” Yunho quickly ordered a large cup of taro smoothie before shoving it in Jaejoong’s hands, acting like he didn’t care.
From: Dream Boy
To: Jae
Subject: Re: Re: hey
Message: i see that, why??
“Aw, you bought me a large! Thanks Yunnie!” He tiptoed and pecked the frowning man on the cheek, running away before Yunho could scream at him for his actions. He looked down at his phone and back at Yunho again before smiling happily.
From: Jae
To: Dream Boy
Subject: Re: Re: Re: hey
Message: my boyfriend forced me to skip
“Come here spazz! Practice your carnival game skills, Gyuri loves it when a guy wins something for her.” True fact. Jaejoong decided to mix in some truths in between his lies.
He spun around and was greeted by a huge hamtaro stuffed doll hanging as one of the top prizes for the game stall that stood beside him. He dejectedly walked backwards and sat on the bench nearby as he miserably slurped on the tasty drink. The pretty man could see Yunho playing a basketball game at some other stall, looking like he didn’t even need to practice at all. Jaejoong huffed and continued to look up, just staring at the huge doll that he knew he would never be able to win. He already used up his coins.
After some time staring, the doll was suddenly snatched away from view and Jaejoong pouted at the realization that someone had won it. He sniffed slightly at the loss before trying to think of good thoughts to get over it. It’s just a doll, go buy it somewhere else. Who knows! Maybe they have one at some souvenir story. Okay? Okay, stop being a baby-
The hamster doll, just as suddenly as it disappeared, popped right in front of his face without warning. He sipped his drink a little too fast in shock; causing him to choke and cough violently.
“Ah! Brainfreeze!” He closed his eyes tightly before calming himself enough to peek one eye open and see the stuffed animal still staring down at him.
“Stop sulking already.” Yunho said as he took Jaejoong’s hands and placed the doll in his arms. “Let’s continue checking out the place, I think I like this one.” The exchange student stared at the doll in his hands and couldn’t help the big smile forming on his lips.
“Why so nice today Yunnie? Did you finally realize all your wrong doings?” He asked as he hopped up from the bench and followed Yunho’s steps, clutching the plushie in one hand. He saw a tanned arm reach behind him before he felt Yunho’s hand smack the back of his head.
“No, you’re just being annoying.”
“How is that related to my question?!”
“Shut up.” Jaejoong did shut his mouth and decided, again, to go back to lying about Gyuri’s pet peeves and likes.
From: Dream Boy
To: Jae
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: hey
Message: you have a boyfriend? >:[
From: Jae
To: Dream Boy
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: hey
Message: Nooo kidding ^_^ why the face?
“Will you stop texting?!” Yunho suddenly burst out, wiping the smile off of Jaejoong’s face.
“What? What’s wrong with you?” Gosh, this guy gets mood swings more than a pregnant woman. A pregnant woman with twins. Now that’s intense.
“You shouldn’t talk to anyone else while we’re having a date!” The taller male grabbed Jaejoong’s cellphone out of his hands and held it up in the air.
“Hey! Give it!” Jaejoong jumped up and tried to take his precious gadget back but his fingers didn’t even graze the metal.
“I’ll give it back after. Now pay attention to me.” Yunho replied calmly, placing the phone in his jeans pocket. Jaejoong stared longingly at the device before realizing what Yunho had previously declared.
“Wait, who said this was a date?!” He grabbed Yunho’s arm to stop him from walking ahead.
“I did.”
“W-wha? But- “
“It’s a practice date. Will you just shut up and go along with it? Geesh.” Yunho ripped his arms away from the confused man before placing the same arm around raven head’s shoulders instead.
Jaejoong glanced up at the other and spotted a small smile forming on Yunho’s lips. He didn’t know what to think; all he could comprehend was the pleasant warmth that the smile and Yunho’s arm around him provided.
From: Dream Boy
To: Jae
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: hey
Message: good and....just because
Thursday
“She said yeah?” Jaejoong placed his chin on top of his upturned hand as Dongwook spoke about his first attempt with Gyuri.
“Yup! We’re gonna have a date on Saturday, isn’t that great?” Jaejoong nodded and managed a tight smile. No it’s not great! She has a date with Yunho the day before that! Stupid manmanizer.
“So where are you guys going?” Might as well go along with it. It’s not my fault they fell for that girl. He briefly wondered what Dongwook’s reaction would be if Jaejoong told the guy that he didn’t even say good things about him in front of Gyuri. Heck, Jaejoong doesn’t even talk to Gyuri. So why am I still doing this? I’m really not even helping them.
“We’re gonna watch a movie in the afternoon and then I’m taking her to my uncle’s restaurant for dinner. That’s good right?”
“Mhmm, that’s great! Well I gotta get going. Sorry, tight schedule. Good luck!” Just like the last time, Jaejoong dashed out of the cafe where they agreed to meet in order to get to Yunho on time.
--
Dongwook stared at Jaejoong’s retreating form and sighed in confusion. He was happy that Gyuri had agreed to go out with him but why did he feel so disappointed when Jaejoong didn’t show any signs of jealousy whenever they talked about her?
Isn’t Jaejoong at least a tiny bit attracted to me? He thought as he sipped his cup of cappuccino. He glanced at his reflection from the spoon and did several poses with different angles. Aren’t I handsome enough? He flashed a huge grin at the reflective object and struck a peace sign to go with it before frowning and hurriedly placing the spoon down.
Why did he even think about Jaejoong so much? They didn’t even talk a lot in person even though they texted each other all the time ever since their first proper talk in the library. He had to admit that talking with Jaejoong always excited him more than talking with Gyuri.
But didn’t he like Gyuri? Dongwook didn’t even know.
Then why was he pining for Jaejoong? The poor boy didn’t know either.
--
“You’re late again.” Yunho stood up from his seat once he saw Jaejoong enter the library.
“Well I had to eat you know. I’m human too.” Jaejoong replied sarcastically. “Why do you even need to see me? Isn’t everything settled for Friday?”
“No,” Yunho walked to where the bookshelves were and picked out a random book from the top shelf. “Tell me what she likes and doesn’t like in a guy.”
“So what? You’re gonna change yourself so she’ll like you?” Jaejoong frowned, walking towards the more secluded bookshelves. “Just be yourself, she likes bad boys.” I like bad boys. Jaejoong laughed inwardly at that fact. He realized that all his past relationships had been with possessive and intimidating bastards. Oh, what a huge masochist I am.
“You sure?” So Yunnie’s really serious about this huh? Jaejoong sighed and decided to drop the act.
“No,” he leaned towards the shelf in front of him and tiptoed to reach a pretty looking book at the very top shelf. Yeah, I judge a book by its cover. “I was kidding. She likes protective gentlemen who treat their partners as if they were made of fragile porcelain.” He explained, letting out a satisfied noise as his fingers brushed against the spine of the book. He felt something warm press behind his back and a long arm reach up next to his own to grab the book that he wanted to see.
“Here. You could’ve just asked me shorty.”
“I’m not short, you just had milk overdose.” Jaejoong pouted indignantly, his body still stuck to the shelf while his head turned sideways to face Yunho. “Thanks, jerk.” He tried to pull back and turn his body as well but something stronger prevented him from doing so. “Uh oh....” He whipped his head around and looked down to see that his black polo shirt was stuck on the shelf. How on earth did I manage to get stuck on this?!
“What now?” He heard Yunho grumble from behind.
“Nothing! I can handle this myself.” Jaejoong tried to pull once again but to no avail. If I pull any harder, I’ll rip my shirt open. Shit.
“You obviously can’t handle it Kim.” Yunho grabbed his arm with one hand and the shelf in the other before pushing at the shelf as hard as he could.
“Wait! No! You’ll rip my shirt- “
“Will you shut up for once!”
“No! Let me go, I have the whole lunch time to take care of this the proper way.”
“I don’t!”
“Who’s making you stay?! Wait, hey! Yunho!” The taller of the two gave one more harsh push before Jaejoong was freed from the old bookshelf. The top buttons of his shirt scattered on the carpeted floor while a small piece of the black cloth stayed stuck in the part where he was originally caught.
Jaejoong couldn’t regain his footing and fell backwards from the sudden force. Yunho noticed this and tried to move behind the other man in hopes of catching him on time. However, that action completely failed as he tripped over a book on the ground and fell on his back with Jaejoong falling right on top of him. Both men groaned as their world’s spun for a couple of seconds.
“Damn Yunnie.” Jaejoong mumbled, placing his hands on Yunho’s chest to push his upper body up which caused his torn shirt to fall off one flawless shoulder.
--
“Jae...” Yunho was completely stunned. Did he just smell what he really thought he smelled? Okay that sounded a bit odd but...
Yunho wrapped his arms around Jaejoong’s frame and pulled him to his chest, burying his face in the other man’s hair and, just as he expected, the sweet scent that he had fallen hard for emanated from the man in his arms. So I really have been chasing after the wrong person huh?
“Y-Yunho?” The bigger man sighed in content as he leaned back on an elbow and kept one hand around Jaejoong’s small waist. The first time he had seen Jaejoong, he honestly thought that the glasses looked cute on him but he was under the wrong impression that the honey green tea mixed with a light vanilla scent came from Gyuri. God knew how hard he tried to transfer his growing affections for Jaejoong into Gyuri, thinking that she was his first love. Apparently, he didn’t have to; the one he had been treating like crap was actually the one he had been looking for.
“Jaejoong,” he steadied himself and tightened his arms around Jaejoong, who started to move away. “You... I- I’ve been-“ a horrified squeak came from their right as the librarian walked in to find them in that suggestive position.
“Shit! This is not what it looks like!” Jaejoong jumped up from Yunho’s lap and pulled his open shirt close. Yunho dazedly stood up and followed the cursing man who walked as far away from the librarian as he could.
--
Guess who’s never visiting the library ever again? Jaejoong thought with a scowl. He walked briskly towards the exit and tried to keep his shirt close over his chest. Stupid shelf... libraries are dangerous! He slapped his hands over his reddening face as he recalled how intimate his position with Yunho had been. Omygodomygodomygod.
“Jaejoong!” Oh hey, he’s not calling me Kim anymore. Jaejoong willed himself to walk faster. He was too embarrassed to face Yunho right now. “Jaejoong!” He felt his body being pulled back and he realized that Yunho’s arms were back around his torso again.
“Yes?” He managed a small response, trying to wiggle out of the other’s hold.
“Will you stop moving!” Yunho let go of him as he removed his sweater and placed it over Jaejoong’s body. “Don’t go out in that shirt.” Yunho turned Jaejoong to face him and zipped the sweater up before turning to walk away as the bell rang, signalling the end of lunch. “Be sure to be home early- ” the taller man threw a glance over a shoulder, regarding Jaejoong seriously. “ -or I’ll come find you and run you over myself.” Jaejoong stuck his tongue out and looked on confusedly at Yunho’s retreating back.
What just happened?
--
“Jaejoong!” It was the end of the day and Jaejoong was walking home from school. He missed his first train and the next one wouldn’t come until thirty minutes later so he figured it would be smarter to just walk home. He turned at the sound of his name to find Dongwook trailing behind him by car.
“Hey dream boy!” He had taken to calling Dongwook that nickname ever since it slipped out of his mouth in the library.
“Sup cutie? Why are you walking?” Dongwook parked his car right by the sidewalk and opened the passenger window to speak with Jaejoong.
“I missed the train so...”
“Ah, sucks. Well, you wanna hop on? I’ll give you a ride home.” The handsome man offered with a wide smile.
“Really? No catch?” Jaejoong answered playfully, already opening the door to get in.
“Hm, now that you mention it. I’ll drive you home- after you come get a drink with me. Deal?” Dongwook started up his car as Jaejoong finished buckling up. Yunho will kill me.
“As long as you pay.” The raven head teased, ignoring his conscience. Yunho will kill me.
“Don’t I always?” Yunho will kill me.
--
“So the guy just came from the beach right? So he’s got a dark tan and all then he got this crazy idea to dye his afro green!” Dongwook listened intently to another one of Jaejoong’s ‘Life in Canada’ stories. “So then the next day when he comes to school, he’s all like ‘hey guys, don’t I look cool?’ and we’re just like ‘yeah man, so cool! You look like a tree!” The taller man howled in laughter while Jaejoong chuckled at the memory.
“Interesting people.” Dongwook managed in between his laughter.
“I know right? They’re quite entertaining.” Jaejoong tossed his empty cup of hot chocolate in the garbage can and continued kicking at the ground.
“You miss Canada?”
“No, not really. I like it here.” I live with the Nams in Canada. Not exactly the most ideal people to spend your everyday life with. Oh my parents who art in heaven, why did you leave me?
“Then why don’t you just permanently move here?” Dongwook asked, tossing his empty cup in a garbage bin a distance away from them.
“Show off,” Jaejoong scrunched his nose and poked at the other man’s stomach. “I have no one to stay with and I’m still a minor.” He shrugged.
“You... are always welcome at my place.” Dongwook sneaked an arm around Jaejoong’s shoulders, staring down at him. Jaejoong laughed softly, ignoring the hand lightly caressing his arms. Maybe next year I’ll move here... I’ll be done high school by then.
“Jae... about the upcoming school welcome party.”
“Yeah? You wanna ask Gyuri?” Jaejoong felt a pang in his chest at the thought of Yunho asking Gyuri to the party as well. Why did that stupid jerk have to affect him so much?
“No actually,” Jaejoong looked up at that statement. That’s weird, why not? “What would you say if... I ask you to the party on Saturday?”
The smaller of the two stared wordlessly. He had absolutely no idea how to respond to that.
--
Jaejoong opened the door to the Jung residence, quickly stepping out of his shoes and running up the stairs to take a refreshing shower.
-Flashback-
“I... what?”
“I know this is sudden, but heck everything’s sudden since you came in my life. Jaejoong I like you.”
“B-but...”
“No buts. I like you, not Gyuri. I’m sorry if I wasted your time asking about Gyuri and all but I found myself more attracted to you.”
“Dongwook, this is...”
“You don’t feel the same huh?”
“I’m sorry.”
“Will you give me a chance later on?”
“I’m leaving in 4 days Dongwook.”
-End Flashback-
He dried himself off and put on his favorite sleepwear; a big loose shirt and a pair of short shorts. No one would see him anyways. He left the towel on top of his head to dry his hair outside the bathroom.
As he exited the en suite, the door to his room burst open to reveal a clearly pissed off Yunho.
“Didn’t I tell you to come home ear- “ Yunho’s rant was cut off when Jaejoong threw his hair towel at the man’s face.
“It’s still early! It’s only 8 for heaven’s sake!” Jaejoong matched the tone that Yunho’s used on him.
“Who were you with?” Since when did you care?
“No one.” He answered shortly. He preferred it when Yunho would just treat him like any other person. At least then, he wouldn’t be given hope that the other could see him as more than just a tool to get to what he wanted.
“So you’re telling me that you were walking around, talking to yourself all that time you were out?”
“Yes! Yes I was!” You stupid idiot, stop acting like you care! Jaejoong stomped out of the room purposely brushing against Yunho’s shoulder on the way out.
“Hey! I’m not done talking!”
“Well I sure am done listening!”Jaejoong went to the living room and sat in front of the fireplace, pouting as he traced the marble texture of the floor. Yunho followed him and stood right above Jaejoong before sighing in defeat and sitting as well. Silence enveloped the duo as one sat pouting while the other sat staring at the crackling fire.
“Sorry.” Yunho started, surprising the man beside him. Holy Schmiz! Did the great Jung Yunho just apologize? To me? The loony who lives in a beautified asylum?!
“Did you just say sorry?” Jaejoong asked in wonder, slowly scooting closer towards Yunho.
“Yes I did.” Yunho threw him a glare, daring the smaller man to say more. Like that scares me.
“Ah right. You’re like a mallowbar; hard on the outside but a big fat softy inside.” Jaejoong giggled, ignoring the other’s menacing look.
“But seriously, who were you with?” Jaejoong cleared his throat at the question, shivering when the cold floor accidentally touched his exposed skin. He pulled his long legs up and wrapped his arms around them, unaware of the other man’s lingering stares.
“Here.” Yunho pulled a blanket seemingly out of nowhere and wrapped it around Jaejoong’s cold body.
“Wow,” Jaejoong pulled the blanket tighter around his body. “You’re like Doraemon. Always pulling shit out of your pocket when people need it.” Yunho couldn’t help but smile at the comparison. It was surprising that he didn’t start yelling. Who would want to be compared to a mallowbar and Doraemon in one sitting?
“Only for you.” Yunho whispered, leaning on his right hand in able to move closer to Jaejoong without being too obvious. Jaejoong kept his head down, unaware of the close proximity between their faces.
“You know about the party on Sunday right?” Jaejoong whispered as if unwilling to break the peaceful silence surrounding them.
“Yeah, the annual welcome party.” Yunho spoke just as lowly. Jaejoong lifted his head a bit and used his peripheral vision to determine the expression on the other man’s face. He almost jumped backwards once he realized how close Yunho actually sat.
“Hm, you a- asking Gyuri?” Dammit, now he was self-conscious! Jaejoong grabbed the hem of the blanket and started picking at the loose threads hanging around the edge of the linen.
“I- I don’t k- know?” Yunho responded, obviously making fun of his stuttering once again. Jaejoong pouted and turned angrily towards the brunet.
“Stop it!” Bad idea Jaejoong. His face was immediately met with Yunho’s own- which happened to be a little too close for comfort. He struggled to keep a straight face when all he wanted to do was squeal like a lovesick fangirl or faint. Fainting was apparently an option judging from the current speed of his heartbeat. Why’s he so close? This dude really... He looked down at the floor and moved backwards to create some more space between their bodies. However, it seemed like Yunho didn’t share the same idea when the man made up for every inch that Jaejoong leaned back by simply moving closer to the flustered man.
“Jaejoong... what would you say if... “ Damn, why does this feel like déjà vu? “...if I ask you to the party instead?” Yup, déjà vu. Jaejoong stayed silent for a moment, staring dumbly at the other as he processed the question in his head.
So Yunho is asking me to the party. He continued staring. But doesn’t he like Gyuri? His mind then went back to the scene in the library and a glint of hope sparkled in his dark doe eyes. Does this mean that he actually likes me? Jaejoong felt a rush of excitement as he opened his mouth to answer, but the bigger man beat him to it.
“Hypothetically speaking of course.” It felt like a slap on the face.
Right. Reality check here Jaejoong. Not everyone you like ends up liking you back. Every good thought that formed in his head just crashed and burned. That single statement hurt him more than he ever expected. He paused for a moment, letting his brain backtrack as the words at the tip of his tongue died away.
“Hypothetically speaking?” he started, hiding the bitterness behind those words. “I would say...” the pale man noticed how Yunho leant even closer forward and he felt his heart prickle with confusion and anger. Just what the hell was Yunho trying to do? His actions and his words totally contradicted each other and it drove Jaejoong absolutely insane. “No.” He breathed.
“What?” Yunho asked, obviously shocked at the answer. “W-why?!” Jaejoong stood up from his spot, returning the blanket on the sofa where Yunho had pulled it from. The brunet followed his actions, standing up as well as he trained his eyes on Jaejoong’s moving form. “Jaejoong, answer me!”
“Do you wanna know who I was with?” Jaejoong bit back, the cold glare in his eyes replacing the hopeful glint from before. “I was with Dongwook.” He continued, stepping closer to the other. “And he’s already asked me to the party.” Yunho gritted his teeth in silent anger. “So hypothetically speaking, it wouldn’t be fair if the early bird didn’t get the worm right? Goodnight Yunho.” With that, Jaejoong backed away from the irate man and headed up the stairs.
You jerk. Jaejoong wiped at his eyes as they moistened in the dark. Stop playing with my feelings. He slammed the door as hard as he could, thankful that Yunho’s parents were still working around this time.
It was unfortunate that Jaejoong forgot the fact that actions spoke louder than words.
Friday
Jaejoong trudged around the school lifelessly. He successfully avoided Yunho so far but his day felt incomplete without the presence of the other man. It was already lunch time; the time when they usually met up and talked, argued, hung out- whatever you called it.
“He has a date today,” he sat on one of the oversized rocks in their school garden, reveling in the peace and quiet the place provided. “I wonder if he really got her tie-dye roses.” He held a hand out to touch the soft petals of a tulip. “He didn’t even have enough time. I didn’t even see him preparing shit, that procrastinator.” He looked to the side and noticed a lone flower standing right by the rock which he sat on. The beautiful man moved around until he could comfortably reach for the flower before stroking it gently. “Are you lonely too?” He poked at its pink petal and huffed to himself.
“Are you playing the ‘he loves me, he loves me not’ game over there?” Jaejoong whirled around and almost fell off the rock in the process but managed to hold onto its side. A small jutting rock grazed the inside of his palm and he winced slightly at the sting.
“What are you?! Trying to give me a heart attack?!” He straightened himself on the large stone and turned his body to face Dongwook.
“Sorry,” the other male chuckled deeply. “I didn’t know you get scared that easily.” Jaejoong frowned and opened his mouth to retort but nothing came out. Well yeah, I do get scared pretty easily. “So what’re you doing here Snow White?”
“Snow White?”
“Isn’t that the Disney princess who talks to plants and stuff?” Dongwook perched himself on the other large rock nearest to Jaejoong.
“And you know this how?” Jaejoong looked at the other man sceptically.
“Hey don’t judge! I have sisters ya know.” Dongwook raised his hands up and shook his head fervently. Jaejoong laughed at the defensiveness in the other’s tone.
“She only talked to animals. Not plants.” Jaejoong corrected.
“Oh, and how do you know this Jae?” Dongwook replied teasingly.
“Everyone watched those when they were kids you dork, don’t judge.” Jaejoong answered, copying Dongwook’s own words. The exchange student smiled contentedly, he was glad that Dongwook managed to find him out here. Jaejoong lifted a hand to rub at the itchy spot on his cheek.
“Hey, where’d you get that?” The basketball player suddenly rushed over and took Jaejoong’s hand in his own, inspecting the light wound on the smaller man’s palm.
“Oh, it’s nothing. I just scratched myself on the rock.” Jaejoong explained, moving to pull his hands away.
“No, let’s go to the nurse’s office.” Dongwook kept his tight grip on the paler hands in his and began to pull Jaejoong to stand.
“It’s really fine! I’ll live.” Jaejoong tried to explain, giving a harsh tug to retrieve his hand back. The action caused Dongwook, who still kept the tightest grip on Jaejoong’s hands, to stumble back and land on the same rock where Jaejoong sat. The taller male’s other hand shot out to keep himself from falling right over Jaejoong before looking up to see the latter looking at him worriedly. “I’m sorry! I think I pulled too hard.” The cute guy scratched his head sheepishly and bit on his bottom lip, unknowingly attracting Dongwook’s eyes.
“Jaejoong.” Dongwook started, swallowing thickly.
“Hm?” Jaejoong looked back at him expectantly.
“Can I kiss you?” The raven was stumped. How was he supposed to answer to that? Why did Dongwook always ask him these types of questions?
“Uh, n-no? No... hey! Dong- “ the bigger man didn’t seem to hear Jaejoong as he continued to dive towards the kill. “Dongwook! Wait, wait!” Jaejoong placed his hands on the other’s chest to halt his actions but Dongwook just grabbed his wrists and pushed them away.
“Just once Jae...”
“But...” Jaejoong couldn’t do anything but close his eyes shut. Why do people never listen these days?
“Dongwook.” They heard a deep voice resound before Jaejoong felt Dongwook’s weight being lifted off of him. His eyes shot open to find Yunho dragging his team mate off by the collar.
My savior! Jaejoong felt so happy at the moment that he forgot about his vow to avoid Yunho at all costs from this day onward. He looked at Yunho’s enraged face and realized what was about to occur. Oh no. “Yunho! Yunho, don’t do anything stu- “ the brunet landed a sharp blow on Dongwook’s handsome face. “ -pid.”
“The hell are you interfering?!” Dongwook sprang up from the ground and threw a strong punch at Yunho’s defined jawline. Ah shit!
“Guys, stop! Stop!” Jaejoong ran towards Yunho and pushed him back a little but the man was too angry to care. He gently pushed Jaejoong to the side and lunged at his glaring opponent. “Dongwook! Yunho! Stop! Do you wanna get in trouble?!” He yelled over the two guys’ angry grunts. “For fuck’s sake, it’s the first week of school!” Great, they made me swear. Sorry mom and dad. Jaejoong ran forward and tried to push the two apart. He pushed at Dongwook’s stomach and shoved at Yunho’s shoulder as hard as he could, successfully creating space between the brawling guys.
Yunho, who was currently experiencing a whole new level of rage, blindly threw his fist forward but only succeeded on grazing Jaejoong with his knuckles. The smallest of the three stood in shock, lifting a hand to touch the part where Yunho had accidentally punched him. Well that woke the two guys up. Dongwook and Yunho stood stock still as they silently watched Jaejoong’s next move.
“Shit. Jae, I’m so- “ before Yunho could finish his apology, Jaejoong hurled forward and threw a mean hook at his face, causing the handsome man to double over in shock. He didn’t expect Jaejoong to hit back. Then again, what did he expect? Jaejoong was still an ill-tempered man after all.
“If you’re gonna throw a punch, make sure it hits the right person!” Jaejoong yelled before charging towards Yunho again. Dongwook wrapped his arms around Jaejoong from behind to prevent him from socking Yunho’s face once more. “Let go of me, I’m just gonna check if he’s alright!” I think I punched too hard. Ah, poor Yunnie. Yunho straightened his stance and grabbed one of Jaejoong’s flailing arms.
“You heard him Choi, let go.” Dongwook reluctantly released his hold on Jaejoong while Yunho pulled the shorter man to his side. Jaejoong gently pulled his arm away from Yunho’s grip and moved to face the both of them.
“Now that I have more reason to go to the nurse,” he shot a glare at Yunho. “And you guys don’t look too well either,” Dongwook and Yunho looked down at themselves and couldn’t help but agree. “We shall all walk to the nurse and make up some ridiculous lie about getting lost on the way to school and getting attacked by rabid dogs or some shit like that. Let’s go leave the scene of the crime before someone tells on us- and treat each other like civilized people please.” Jaejoong dictated much like a disappointed mother to her children. The other two obediently followed like little puppies and the pretty man couldn’t help but smile at their behaviour. They’re just like kids after all. Yeah, kids who fight over their favorite toy. He glanced towards Yunho and the confusion he felt the other night was back again. Why did Yunho react that way? Was it because Dongwook almost kissed me? Did he really care about that?
Jaejoong looked down at the floor and fiddled with his fingers; he didn’t know what to think.
Part 3
Author: YukiBoo
Genre: Romance, Fluff, Humor, Slight Drama
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Foreign exchange student Kim Jaejoong agreed to help rebel Jung Yunho and nice guy Choi Dongwook to win over his cousin’s heart. An unexpected twist occurs when both men find themselves falling alarmingly fast for their little helper instead.
-Korean-
- English-
Wednesday
“So,” Jaejoong slurped on his smoothie as he and Yunho walked around the carnival. This would be the third possible date location that Jaejoong had suggested. The first one was the zoo and Yunho pulled him back in the car as soon as he saw the name. The second one was a beautiful beach nearby but Jaejoong decided that it was too good so he lied and told Yunho that Gyuri was allergic to the sun. “Can you think of any possible romantic situations that may occur here?” Well duh, it’s the classic carnival. He felt something vibrate in his pockets before he carefully fished out his cellphone from his back pocket.
From: Dream Boy
To: Jae
Subject: hey
Message: where are u?
“Yeah, sure.” Yunho murmured, still inspecting the place. The entrance fee was cheap and the food they sold at the stands were also affordable hence why Jaejoong carried a smoothie paid by Yunho. “Aren’t carnival dates too cliché though?”
From: Jae
To: Dream Boy
Subject: Re: hey
Message: not at school obviously =P
“A good dose of cliché is good once in a while.” Heh. Gyuri hates cliché dates. “I like them.” He added, expecting Yunho to retort with a biting ‘I don’t care about what you think’ or something but he got none. Jaejoong shrugged and thought that maybe Yunho was just in a good mood. His eyes continued to scan the place until they landed on the carnival games section. He fastened his pace and went straight to the stalls without warning his companion.
“Hey! Kim!” Yunho had no choice but to follow.
“Whoa, they have so many cool games! Oh! What’s that one? They don’t have this in Canada!” The shorter male ran back and forth towards different stalls, spending his coins on trying out the ones he found interesting and won little prizes on the way. “Hey spazz!” Jaejoong moved his head around trying to spot Yunho. He found the man standing in the middle of two stalls, staring at him. Jaejoong walked to where Yunho stood and jumped up to whack his head.
“What’s with that face? I know you’re not having the best time in your life right now but you gotta practice smiling tough guy, no one likes a grumpy face.” He lifted his index fingers and placed them on Yunho’s cheeks, pulling the soft skin up. His heart pounded faster when Yunho took hold of his wrists and leaned closer; invading Jaejoong’s personal space.
“I know how to smile.” The handsome man easily pulled his lips into a charming smile and Jaejoong couldn’t help a breathless sigh. In my head of course; God knows that this person doesn’t need anymore things to feed his gigantic ego.
“Good. Keep it.” He moved away from the smiling man only to realize that his smoothie was gone from his hands. “No!” He let out an agonized yell; that smoothie was good!
“Hey, what’s wrong?” He ignored Yunho’s question as his eyes darted around the mildly crowded place in hopes of finding his missing drink.
“Found you!” Jaejoong declared happily, spotting the white smoothie on one of the stalls he played at. He was about to dash over and claim the drink back when hands held his shoulders tightly, preventing him from going anywhere.
“Are you stupid?! Someone could’ve put something in that during the time you left it!”
“But it’s a carnival! Who would be cruel enough drug someone’s drink in a carnival?” Yunho stared at him incredulously before shaking his head and sighing. What? Fine! Oh all-knowing Jung Yunho.
“Ugh, fine. Let’s go check out their souvenir stores.” Jaejoong mumbled, gripping the hem of Yunho’s shirt to pull him along. However, the man wouldn’t budge. “Yunho-”
“I’ll buy you a new one.” The man was ready to walk to the nearest smoothie shop while Jaejoong stared on confusedly.
“What? No! It’s fine really. You already bought me one.”
“No, I’m buying it. Come here, choose a flavor.” Jaejoong slowly walked up beside Yunho, staring up at him with a small smile on his face. Yunho noticed this and forced a scowl on his face. “What?”
“I didn’t know that you’re such a softy Yunnie- can I call you that?”
“No.” Yunho growled lowly, throwing a glare towards his companion. His glares, however, have no effect on Jaejoong anymore.
“I want taro.” Yunho quickly ordered a large cup of taro smoothie before shoving it in Jaejoong’s hands, acting like he didn’t care.
From: Dream Boy
To: Jae
Subject: Re: Re: hey
Message: i see that, why??
“Aw, you bought me a large! Thanks Yunnie!” He tiptoed and pecked the frowning man on the cheek, running away before Yunho could scream at him for his actions. He looked down at his phone and back at Yunho again before smiling happily.
From: Jae
To: Dream Boy
Subject: Re: Re: Re: hey
Message: my boyfriend forced me to skip
“Come here spazz! Practice your carnival game skills, Gyuri loves it when a guy wins something for her.” True fact. Jaejoong decided to mix in some truths in between his lies.
He spun around and was greeted by a huge hamtaro stuffed doll hanging as one of the top prizes for the game stall that stood beside him. He dejectedly walked backwards and sat on the bench nearby as he miserably slurped on the tasty drink. The pretty man could see Yunho playing a basketball game at some other stall, looking like he didn’t even need to practice at all. Jaejoong huffed and continued to look up, just staring at the huge doll that he knew he would never be able to win. He already used up his coins.
After some time staring, the doll was suddenly snatched away from view and Jaejoong pouted at the realization that someone had won it. He sniffed slightly at the loss before trying to think of good thoughts to get over it. It’s just a doll, go buy it somewhere else. Who knows! Maybe they have one at some souvenir story. Okay? Okay, stop being a baby-
The hamster doll, just as suddenly as it disappeared, popped right in front of his face without warning. He sipped his drink a little too fast in shock; causing him to choke and cough violently.
“Ah! Brainfreeze!” He closed his eyes tightly before calming himself enough to peek one eye open and see the stuffed animal still staring down at him.
“Stop sulking already.” Yunho said as he took Jaejoong’s hands and placed the doll in his arms. “Let’s continue checking out the place, I think I like this one.” The exchange student stared at the doll in his hands and couldn’t help the big smile forming on his lips.
“Why so nice today Yunnie? Did you finally realize all your wrong doings?” He asked as he hopped up from the bench and followed Yunho’s steps, clutching the plushie in one hand. He saw a tanned arm reach behind him before he felt Yunho’s hand smack the back of his head.
“No, you’re just being annoying.”
“How is that related to my question?!”
“Shut up.” Jaejoong did shut his mouth and decided, again, to go back to lying about Gyuri’s pet peeves and likes.
From: Dream Boy
To: Jae
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: hey
Message: you have a boyfriend? >:[
From: Jae
To: Dream Boy
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: hey
Message: Nooo kidding ^_^ why the face?
“Will you stop texting?!” Yunho suddenly burst out, wiping the smile off of Jaejoong’s face.
“What? What’s wrong with you?” Gosh, this guy gets mood swings more than a pregnant woman. A pregnant woman with twins. Now that’s intense.
“You shouldn’t talk to anyone else while we’re having a date!” The taller male grabbed Jaejoong’s cellphone out of his hands and held it up in the air.
“Hey! Give it!” Jaejoong jumped up and tried to take his precious gadget back but his fingers didn’t even graze the metal.
“I’ll give it back after. Now pay attention to me.” Yunho replied calmly, placing the phone in his jeans pocket. Jaejoong stared longingly at the device before realizing what Yunho had previously declared.
“Wait, who said this was a date?!” He grabbed Yunho’s arm to stop him from walking ahead.
“I did.”
“W-wha? But- “
“It’s a practice date. Will you just shut up and go along with it? Geesh.” Yunho ripped his arms away from the confused man before placing the same arm around raven head’s shoulders instead.
Jaejoong glanced up at the other and spotted a small smile forming on Yunho’s lips. He didn’t know what to think; all he could comprehend was the pleasant warmth that the smile and Yunho’s arm around him provided.
From: Dream Boy
To: Jae
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: hey
Message: good and....just because
Thursday
“She said yeah?” Jaejoong placed his chin on top of his upturned hand as Dongwook spoke about his first attempt with Gyuri.
“Yup! We’re gonna have a date on Saturday, isn’t that great?” Jaejoong nodded and managed a tight smile. No it’s not great! She has a date with Yunho the day before that! Stupid manmanizer.
“So where are you guys going?” Might as well go along with it. It’s not my fault they fell for that girl. He briefly wondered what Dongwook’s reaction would be if Jaejoong told the guy that he didn’t even say good things about him in front of Gyuri. Heck, Jaejoong doesn’t even talk to Gyuri. So why am I still doing this? I’m really not even helping them.
“We’re gonna watch a movie in the afternoon and then I’m taking her to my uncle’s restaurant for dinner. That’s good right?”
“Mhmm, that’s great! Well I gotta get going. Sorry, tight schedule. Good luck!” Just like the last time, Jaejoong dashed out of the cafe where they agreed to meet in order to get to Yunho on time.
--
Dongwook stared at Jaejoong’s retreating form and sighed in confusion. He was happy that Gyuri had agreed to go out with him but why did he feel so disappointed when Jaejoong didn’t show any signs of jealousy whenever they talked about her?
Isn’t Jaejoong at least a tiny bit attracted to me? He thought as he sipped his cup of cappuccino. He glanced at his reflection from the spoon and did several poses with different angles. Aren’t I handsome enough? He flashed a huge grin at the reflective object and struck a peace sign to go with it before frowning and hurriedly placing the spoon down.
Why did he even think about Jaejoong so much? They didn’t even talk a lot in person even though they texted each other all the time ever since their first proper talk in the library. He had to admit that talking with Jaejoong always excited him more than talking with Gyuri.
But didn’t he like Gyuri? Dongwook didn’t even know.
Then why was he pining for Jaejoong? The poor boy didn’t know either.
--
“You’re late again.” Yunho stood up from his seat once he saw Jaejoong enter the library.
“Well I had to eat you know. I’m human too.” Jaejoong replied sarcastically. “Why do you even need to see me? Isn’t everything settled for Friday?”
“No,” Yunho walked to where the bookshelves were and picked out a random book from the top shelf. “Tell me what she likes and doesn’t like in a guy.”
“So what? You’re gonna change yourself so she’ll like you?” Jaejoong frowned, walking towards the more secluded bookshelves. “Just be yourself, she likes bad boys.” I like bad boys. Jaejoong laughed inwardly at that fact. He realized that all his past relationships had been with possessive and intimidating bastards. Oh, what a huge masochist I am.
“You sure?” So Yunnie’s really serious about this huh? Jaejoong sighed and decided to drop the act.
“No,” he leaned towards the shelf in front of him and tiptoed to reach a pretty looking book at the very top shelf. Yeah, I judge a book by its cover. “I was kidding. She likes protective gentlemen who treat their partners as if they were made of fragile porcelain.” He explained, letting out a satisfied noise as his fingers brushed against the spine of the book. He felt something warm press behind his back and a long arm reach up next to his own to grab the book that he wanted to see.
“Here. You could’ve just asked me shorty.”
“I’m not short, you just had milk overdose.” Jaejoong pouted indignantly, his body still stuck to the shelf while his head turned sideways to face Yunho. “Thanks, jerk.” He tried to pull back and turn his body as well but something stronger prevented him from doing so. “Uh oh....” He whipped his head around and looked down to see that his black polo shirt was stuck on the shelf. How on earth did I manage to get stuck on this?!
“What now?” He heard Yunho grumble from behind.
“Nothing! I can handle this myself.” Jaejoong tried to pull once again but to no avail. If I pull any harder, I’ll rip my shirt open. Shit.
“You obviously can’t handle it Kim.” Yunho grabbed his arm with one hand and the shelf in the other before pushing at the shelf as hard as he could.
“Wait! No! You’ll rip my shirt- “
“Will you shut up for once!”
“No! Let me go, I have the whole lunch time to take care of this the proper way.”
“I don’t!”
“Who’s making you stay?! Wait, hey! Yunho!” The taller of the two gave one more harsh push before Jaejoong was freed from the old bookshelf. The top buttons of his shirt scattered on the carpeted floor while a small piece of the black cloth stayed stuck in the part where he was originally caught.
Jaejoong couldn’t regain his footing and fell backwards from the sudden force. Yunho noticed this and tried to move behind the other man in hopes of catching him on time. However, that action completely failed as he tripped over a book on the ground and fell on his back with Jaejoong falling right on top of him. Both men groaned as their world’s spun for a couple of seconds.
“Damn Yunnie.” Jaejoong mumbled, placing his hands on Yunho’s chest to push his upper body up which caused his torn shirt to fall off one flawless shoulder.
--
“Jae...” Yunho was completely stunned. Did he just smell what he really thought he smelled? Okay that sounded a bit odd but...
Yunho wrapped his arms around Jaejoong’s frame and pulled him to his chest, burying his face in the other man’s hair and, just as he expected, the sweet scent that he had fallen hard for emanated from the man in his arms. So I really have been chasing after the wrong person huh?
“Y-Yunho?” The bigger man sighed in content as he leaned back on an elbow and kept one hand around Jaejoong’s small waist. The first time he had seen Jaejoong, he honestly thought that the glasses looked cute on him but he was under the wrong impression that the honey green tea mixed with a light vanilla scent came from Gyuri. God knew how hard he tried to transfer his growing affections for Jaejoong into Gyuri, thinking that she was his first love. Apparently, he didn’t have to; the one he had been treating like crap was actually the one he had been looking for.
“Jaejoong,” he steadied himself and tightened his arms around Jaejoong, who started to move away. “You... I- I’ve been-“ a horrified squeak came from their right as the librarian walked in to find them in that suggestive position.
“Shit! This is not what it looks like!” Jaejoong jumped up from Yunho’s lap and pulled his open shirt close. Yunho dazedly stood up and followed the cursing man who walked as far away from the librarian as he could.
--
Guess who’s never visiting the library ever again? Jaejoong thought with a scowl. He walked briskly towards the exit and tried to keep his shirt close over his chest. Stupid shelf... libraries are dangerous! He slapped his hands over his reddening face as he recalled how intimate his position with Yunho had been. Omygodomygodomygod.
“Jaejoong!” Oh hey, he’s not calling me Kim anymore. Jaejoong willed himself to walk faster. He was too embarrassed to face Yunho right now. “Jaejoong!” He felt his body being pulled back and he realized that Yunho’s arms were back around his torso again.
“Yes?” He managed a small response, trying to wiggle out of the other’s hold.
“Will you stop moving!” Yunho let go of him as he removed his sweater and placed it over Jaejoong’s body. “Don’t go out in that shirt.” Yunho turned Jaejoong to face him and zipped the sweater up before turning to walk away as the bell rang, signalling the end of lunch. “Be sure to be home early- ” the taller man threw a glance over a shoulder, regarding Jaejoong seriously. “ -or I’ll come find you and run you over myself.” Jaejoong stuck his tongue out and looked on confusedly at Yunho’s retreating back.
What just happened?
--
“Jaejoong!” It was the end of the day and Jaejoong was walking home from school. He missed his first train and the next one wouldn’t come until thirty minutes later so he figured it would be smarter to just walk home. He turned at the sound of his name to find Dongwook trailing behind him by car.
“Hey dream boy!” He had taken to calling Dongwook that nickname ever since it slipped out of his mouth in the library.
“Sup cutie? Why are you walking?” Dongwook parked his car right by the sidewalk and opened the passenger window to speak with Jaejoong.
“I missed the train so...”
“Ah, sucks. Well, you wanna hop on? I’ll give you a ride home.” The handsome man offered with a wide smile.
“Really? No catch?” Jaejoong answered playfully, already opening the door to get in.
“Hm, now that you mention it. I’ll drive you home- after you come get a drink with me. Deal?” Dongwook started up his car as Jaejoong finished buckling up. Yunho will kill me.
“As long as you pay.” The raven head teased, ignoring his conscience. Yunho will kill me.
“Don’t I always?” Yunho will kill me.
--
“So the guy just came from the beach right? So he’s got a dark tan and all then he got this crazy idea to dye his afro green!” Dongwook listened intently to another one of Jaejoong’s ‘Life in Canada’ stories. “So then the next day when he comes to school, he’s all like ‘hey guys, don’t I look cool?’ and we’re just like ‘yeah man, so cool! You look like a tree!” The taller man howled in laughter while Jaejoong chuckled at the memory.
“Interesting people.” Dongwook managed in between his laughter.
“I know right? They’re quite entertaining.” Jaejoong tossed his empty cup of hot chocolate in the garbage can and continued kicking at the ground.
“You miss Canada?”
“No, not really. I like it here.” I live with the Nams in Canada. Not exactly the most ideal people to spend your everyday life with. Oh my parents who art in heaven, why did you leave me?
“Then why don’t you just permanently move here?” Dongwook asked, tossing his empty cup in a garbage bin a distance away from them.
“Show off,” Jaejoong scrunched his nose and poked at the other man’s stomach. “I have no one to stay with and I’m still a minor.” He shrugged.
“You... are always welcome at my place.” Dongwook sneaked an arm around Jaejoong’s shoulders, staring down at him. Jaejoong laughed softly, ignoring the hand lightly caressing his arms. Maybe next year I’ll move here... I’ll be done high school by then.
“Jae... about the upcoming school welcome party.”
“Yeah? You wanna ask Gyuri?” Jaejoong felt a pang in his chest at the thought of Yunho asking Gyuri to the party as well. Why did that stupid jerk have to affect him so much?
“No actually,” Jaejoong looked up at that statement. That’s weird, why not? “What would you say if... I ask you to the party on Saturday?”
The smaller of the two stared wordlessly. He had absolutely no idea how to respond to that.
--
Jaejoong opened the door to the Jung residence, quickly stepping out of his shoes and running up the stairs to take a refreshing shower.
-Flashback-
“I... what?”
“I know this is sudden, but heck everything’s sudden since you came in my life. Jaejoong I like you.”
“B-but...”
“No buts. I like you, not Gyuri. I’m sorry if I wasted your time asking about Gyuri and all but I found myself more attracted to you.”
“Dongwook, this is...”
“You don’t feel the same huh?”
“I’m sorry.”
“Will you give me a chance later on?”
“I’m leaving in 4 days Dongwook.”
-End Flashback-
He dried himself off and put on his favorite sleepwear; a big loose shirt and a pair of short shorts. No one would see him anyways. He left the towel on top of his head to dry his hair outside the bathroom.
As he exited the en suite, the door to his room burst open to reveal a clearly pissed off Yunho.
“Didn’t I tell you to come home ear- “ Yunho’s rant was cut off when Jaejoong threw his hair towel at the man’s face.
“It’s still early! It’s only 8 for heaven’s sake!” Jaejoong matched the tone that Yunho’s used on him.
“Who were you with?” Since when did you care?
“No one.” He answered shortly. He preferred it when Yunho would just treat him like any other person. At least then, he wouldn’t be given hope that the other could see him as more than just a tool to get to what he wanted.
“So you’re telling me that you were walking around, talking to yourself all that time you were out?”
“Yes! Yes I was!” You stupid idiot, stop acting like you care! Jaejoong stomped out of the room purposely brushing against Yunho’s shoulder on the way out.
“Hey! I’m not done talking!”
“Well I sure am done listening!”Jaejoong went to the living room and sat in front of the fireplace, pouting as he traced the marble texture of the floor. Yunho followed him and stood right above Jaejoong before sighing in defeat and sitting as well. Silence enveloped the duo as one sat pouting while the other sat staring at the crackling fire.
“Sorry.” Yunho started, surprising the man beside him. Holy Schmiz! Did the great Jung Yunho just apologize? To me? The loony who lives in a beautified asylum?!
“Did you just say sorry?” Jaejoong asked in wonder, slowly scooting closer towards Yunho.
“Yes I did.” Yunho threw him a glare, daring the smaller man to say more. Like that scares me.
“Ah right. You’re like a mallowbar; hard on the outside but a big fat softy inside.” Jaejoong giggled, ignoring the other’s menacing look.
“But seriously, who were you with?” Jaejoong cleared his throat at the question, shivering when the cold floor accidentally touched his exposed skin. He pulled his long legs up and wrapped his arms around them, unaware of the other man’s lingering stares.
“Here.” Yunho pulled a blanket seemingly out of nowhere and wrapped it around Jaejoong’s cold body.
“Wow,” Jaejoong pulled the blanket tighter around his body. “You’re like Doraemon. Always pulling shit out of your pocket when people need it.” Yunho couldn’t help but smile at the comparison. It was surprising that he didn’t start yelling. Who would want to be compared to a mallowbar and Doraemon in one sitting?
“Only for you.” Yunho whispered, leaning on his right hand in able to move closer to Jaejoong without being too obvious. Jaejoong kept his head down, unaware of the close proximity between their faces.
“You know about the party on Sunday right?” Jaejoong whispered as if unwilling to break the peaceful silence surrounding them.
“Yeah, the annual welcome party.” Yunho spoke just as lowly. Jaejoong lifted his head a bit and used his peripheral vision to determine the expression on the other man’s face. He almost jumped backwards once he realized how close Yunho actually sat.
“Hm, you a- asking Gyuri?” Dammit, now he was self-conscious! Jaejoong grabbed the hem of the blanket and started picking at the loose threads hanging around the edge of the linen.
“I- I don’t k- know?” Yunho responded, obviously making fun of his stuttering once again. Jaejoong pouted and turned angrily towards the brunet.
“Stop it!” Bad idea Jaejoong. His face was immediately met with Yunho’s own- which happened to be a little too close for comfort. He struggled to keep a straight face when all he wanted to do was squeal like a lovesick fangirl or faint. Fainting was apparently an option judging from the current speed of his heartbeat. Why’s he so close? This dude really... He looked down at the floor and moved backwards to create some more space between their bodies. However, it seemed like Yunho didn’t share the same idea when the man made up for every inch that Jaejoong leaned back by simply moving closer to the flustered man.
“Jaejoong... what would you say if... “ Damn, why does this feel like déjà vu? “...if I ask you to the party instead?” Yup, déjà vu. Jaejoong stayed silent for a moment, staring dumbly at the other as he processed the question in his head.
So Yunho is asking me to the party. He continued staring. But doesn’t he like Gyuri? His mind then went back to the scene in the library and a glint of hope sparkled in his dark doe eyes. Does this mean that he actually likes me? Jaejoong felt a rush of excitement as he opened his mouth to answer, but the bigger man beat him to it.
“Hypothetically speaking of course.” It felt like a slap on the face.
Right. Reality check here Jaejoong. Not everyone you like ends up liking you back. Every good thought that formed in his head just crashed and burned. That single statement hurt him more than he ever expected. He paused for a moment, letting his brain backtrack as the words at the tip of his tongue died away.
“Hypothetically speaking?” he started, hiding the bitterness behind those words. “I would say...” the pale man noticed how Yunho leant even closer forward and he felt his heart prickle with confusion and anger. Just what the hell was Yunho trying to do? His actions and his words totally contradicted each other and it drove Jaejoong absolutely insane. “No.” He breathed.
“What?” Yunho asked, obviously shocked at the answer. “W-why?!” Jaejoong stood up from his spot, returning the blanket on the sofa where Yunho had pulled it from. The brunet followed his actions, standing up as well as he trained his eyes on Jaejoong’s moving form. “Jaejoong, answer me!”
“Do you wanna know who I was with?” Jaejoong bit back, the cold glare in his eyes replacing the hopeful glint from before. “I was with Dongwook.” He continued, stepping closer to the other. “And he’s already asked me to the party.” Yunho gritted his teeth in silent anger. “So hypothetically speaking, it wouldn’t be fair if the early bird didn’t get the worm right? Goodnight Yunho.” With that, Jaejoong backed away from the irate man and headed up the stairs.
You jerk. Jaejoong wiped at his eyes as they moistened in the dark. Stop playing with my feelings. He slammed the door as hard as he could, thankful that Yunho’s parents were still working around this time.
It was unfortunate that Jaejoong forgot the fact that actions spoke louder than words.
Friday
Jaejoong trudged around the school lifelessly. He successfully avoided Yunho so far but his day felt incomplete without the presence of the other man. It was already lunch time; the time when they usually met up and talked, argued, hung out- whatever you called it.
“He has a date today,” he sat on one of the oversized rocks in their school garden, reveling in the peace and quiet the place provided. “I wonder if he really got her tie-dye roses.” He held a hand out to touch the soft petals of a tulip. “He didn’t even have enough time. I didn’t even see him preparing shit, that procrastinator.” He looked to the side and noticed a lone flower standing right by the rock which he sat on. The beautiful man moved around until he could comfortably reach for the flower before stroking it gently. “Are you lonely too?” He poked at its pink petal and huffed to himself.
“Are you playing the ‘he loves me, he loves me not’ game over there?” Jaejoong whirled around and almost fell off the rock in the process but managed to hold onto its side. A small jutting rock grazed the inside of his palm and he winced slightly at the sting.
“What are you?! Trying to give me a heart attack?!” He straightened himself on the large stone and turned his body to face Dongwook.
“Sorry,” the other male chuckled deeply. “I didn’t know you get scared that easily.” Jaejoong frowned and opened his mouth to retort but nothing came out. Well yeah, I do get scared pretty easily. “So what’re you doing here Snow White?”
“Snow White?”
“Isn’t that the Disney princess who talks to plants and stuff?” Dongwook perched himself on the other large rock nearest to Jaejoong.
“And you know this how?” Jaejoong looked at the other man sceptically.
“Hey don’t judge! I have sisters ya know.” Dongwook raised his hands up and shook his head fervently. Jaejoong laughed at the defensiveness in the other’s tone.
“She only talked to animals. Not plants.” Jaejoong corrected.
“Oh, and how do you know this Jae?” Dongwook replied teasingly.
“Everyone watched those when they were kids you dork, don’t judge.” Jaejoong answered, copying Dongwook’s own words. The exchange student smiled contentedly, he was glad that Dongwook managed to find him out here. Jaejoong lifted a hand to rub at the itchy spot on his cheek.
“Hey, where’d you get that?” The basketball player suddenly rushed over and took Jaejoong’s hand in his own, inspecting the light wound on the smaller man’s palm.
“Oh, it’s nothing. I just scratched myself on the rock.” Jaejoong explained, moving to pull his hands away.
“No, let’s go to the nurse’s office.” Dongwook kept his tight grip on the paler hands in his and began to pull Jaejoong to stand.
“It’s really fine! I’ll live.” Jaejoong tried to explain, giving a harsh tug to retrieve his hand back. The action caused Dongwook, who still kept the tightest grip on Jaejoong’s hands, to stumble back and land on the same rock where Jaejoong sat. The taller male’s other hand shot out to keep himself from falling right over Jaejoong before looking up to see the latter looking at him worriedly. “I’m sorry! I think I pulled too hard.” The cute guy scratched his head sheepishly and bit on his bottom lip, unknowingly attracting Dongwook’s eyes.
“Jaejoong.” Dongwook started, swallowing thickly.
“Hm?” Jaejoong looked back at him expectantly.
“Can I kiss you?” The raven was stumped. How was he supposed to answer to that? Why did Dongwook always ask him these types of questions?
“Uh, n-no? No... hey! Dong- “ the bigger man didn’t seem to hear Jaejoong as he continued to dive towards the kill. “Dongwook! Wait, wait!” Jaejoong placed his hands on the other’s chest to halt his actions but Dongwook just grabbed his wrists and pushed them away.
“Just once Jae...”
“But...” Jaejoong couldn’t do anything but close his eyes shut. Why do people never listen these days?
“Dongwook.” They heard a deep voice resound before Jaejoong felt Dongwook’s weight being lifted off of him. His eyes shot open to find Yunho dragging his team mate off by the collar.
My savior! Jaejoong felt so happy at the moment that he forgot about his vow to avoid Yunho at all costs from this day onward. He looked at Yunho’s enraged face and realized what was about to occur. Oh no. “Yunho! Yunho, don’t do anything stu- “ the brunet landed a sharp blow on Dongwook’s handsome face. “ -pid.”
“The hell are you interfering?!” Dongwook sprang up from the ground and threw a strong punch at Yunho’s defined jawline. Ah shit!
“Guys, stop! Stop!” Jaejoong ran towards Yunho and pushed him back a little but the man was too angry to care. He gently pushed Jaejoong to the side and lunged at his glaring opponent. “Dongwook! Yunho! Stop! Do you wanna get in trouble?!” He yelled over the two guys’ angry grunts. “For fuck’s sake, it’s the first week of school!” Great, they made me swear. Sorry mom and dad. Jaejoong ran forward and tried to push the two apart. He pushed at Dongwook’s stomach and shoved at Yunho’s shoulder as hard as he could, successfully creating space between the brawling guys.
Yunho, who was currently experiencing a whole new level of rage, blindly threw his fist forward but only succeeded on grazing Jaejoong with his knuckles. The smallest of the three stood in shock, lifting a hand to touch the part where Yunho had accidentally punched him. Well that woke the two guys up. Dongwook and Yunho stood stock still as they silently watched Jaejoong’s next move.
“Shit. Jae, I’m so- “ before Yunho could finish his apology, Jaejoong hurled forward and threw a mean hook at his face, causing the handsome man to double over in shock. He didn’t expect Jaejoong to hit back. Then again, what did he expect? Jaejoong was still an ill-tempered man after all.
“If you’re gonna throw a punch, make sure it hits the right person!” Jaejoong yelled before charging towards Yunho again. Dongwook wrapped his arms around Jaejoong from behind to prevent him from socking Yunho’s face once more. “Let go of me, I’m just gonna check if he’s alright!” I think I punched too hard. Ah, poor Yunnie. Yunho straightened his stance and grabbed one of Jaejoong’s flailing arms.
“You heard him Choi, let go.” Dongwook reluctantly released his hold on Jaejoong while Yunho pulled the shorter man to his side. Jaejoong gently pulled his arm away from Yunho’s grip and moved to face the both of them.
“Now that I have more reason to go to the nurse,” he shot a glare at Yunho. “And you guys don’t look too well either,” Dongwook and Yunho looked down at themselves and couldn’t help but agree. “We shall all walk to the nurse and make up some ridiculous lie about getting lost on the way to school and getting attacked by rabid dogs or some shit like that. Let’s go leave the scene of the crime before someone tells on us- and treat each other like civilized people please.” Jaejoong dictated much like a disappointed mother to her children. The other two obediently followed like little puppies and the pretty man couldn’t help but smile at their behaviour. They’re just like kids after all. Yeah, kids who fight over their favorite toy. He glanced towards Yunho and the confusion he felt the other night was back again. Why did Yunho react that way? Was it because Dongwook almost kissed me? Did he really care about that?
Jaejoong looked down at the floor and fiddled with his fingers; he didn’t know what to think.
Part 3