Nevermore 3/4?
Title: Nevermore 3/4?
Pairing: Changmin/Yunho (minor Yoochun/Junsu)
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: They are gods to me ... maybe they are actually gods ... either way, all I can do is worship them.
Summary: Changmin is tall dark and handsome in all the cliched romance novel ways. But he's also smart, sexy, intelligent, controlling, and perfect, and Yunho wants nothing more than to get on his knees and lick Changmin's boots. There's more to him than Yunho knows, and he should have figured it out based on the invisible ravens that follow Changmin around. But Yunho was pretty sure he'd been the only one that could see them.
Warning: mentioned mpreg not my fault. Changmin wanted babies with Yunho
Poster by me. :)
Part 3: The Advice of Best Friends
Yunho thought about it. He sat on the floor in the hallway and thought about it. Someone opened the door and Nevermore flew in. She came right to Yunho and perched upon his knee.
“Hey, man. You okay?”
Yunho looked up, away from Nevermore, to the man standing above him. It was one of the stylists from the salon.
“Yeah,” Yunho said, choking a little. “Just ...”
“Are you drunk?”
Yunho felt drunk. Off pain, desperation, fear. And lust. God, he wanted Changmin so much. Could he leave everything for him? Yunho wasn’t sure. He had only known Changmin for a week.
“Here. Let me help you up.”
Yunho clasped the man’s hand and he was hauled to his feet. His head spun and Nevermore protested. But only Yunho heard her.
“Do you need help up the stairs?”
Yunho shook his head. “No. Thanks. I’ll be all right.”
“You’re sure?”
Yunho nodded. He rubbed his face in his hands and then started up the stairs. He knew the guy had not left, but watched him stagger up the stairs. Nevermore settled on his shoulder, the brush of her wings felt like the brush of Changmin’s fingers. He unlocked the door with shaking hands and continued to stagger all the way to his bedroom. He’d hoped to be sharing it tonight.
He fell into bed with his clothes on and stared at the ceiling, thoughts whirling in his head. When the sun started to lighten the sky, Yunho hadn’t come to a decision and nothing yet made sense. He liked Changmin, he knew that much, and he liked that he belonged to someone, but the “belong” that Changmin expected was much different than the “belong” that Yunho thought.
His alarm went off, and Yunho rolled out of bed. He took a shower and brushed his teeth on automatic. He dressed in sweats and a hoody. There was no way he was going for a run, so he went right to Cheers to Java.
Nevermore followed him everywhere, even inside. He did not bother to keep her out. No one else could see her anyway.
“Wow, you look like shit,” Junsu said as a hello.
Yunho attempted to smile.
“Go sit down. I’ll bring your coffee.”
He nodded and went to the couch that he’d been curled up on with Changmin almost a week ago. It felt too big all by himself.
He tried to list things in his brain in order of importance. First was the whole having kids thing that he did not want to think about. Second was leaving his life. He really did want to be a lawyer and help couples like YooSu. Third was YooSu. They were his family. There were the people who he called mother and father, and his sister, but they hadn’t supported him when he came out of the closet. His father had kicked him out and told him not to come back without a wife and child. Did him bearing the children make him the wife? Would his father accept him back with the Prince of Darkness by his side and the heir to the Raven kingdom in his arms?
He strongly doubted that.
Yoochun brought his drink and sat next to him. “You look like shit.”
“So I’ve heard.” Yunho cradled the warm coffee cup and took a drink.
“Changmin dump you?”
Yunho shook his head. “I have a question for you.”
“Shoot.”
“If ... if you had the chance, would you be pregnant?”
“What the ... are you pregnant?” He smiled.
Yunho rolled his eyes. “No, dumbass. Would you do it? If they found out how to make men carry a kid, and between you and Junsu, only you were able to do it, would you do it?”
“Yes.”
“That easy?”
Yoochun smiled. “You know how much Junsu and I want a family, hyung. I’d turn my body over to be the first man to do it just to make Junsu happy.”
Yunho took a deep breath.
“Let’s work on same-sex marriage and equal rights first before you shove a fake uterus into my body.”
Yunho laughed. “Sorry. Just thinking about things.”
“Yesterday you were walking on air, and now you’re ... well, deflated.”
“Changmin just mentioned that his father expects him to have an heir. Rich guy, family company, all that stuff.”
“Ah.”
“He wants to date me, but he ... he had to tell me about that before anything else.”
“Well, you aren’t going to walk down the aisle with him,” Yoochun said. “You just met him. You haven’t even fucked yet.”
Yunho nodded. “I know. The problem is that I ... he’s just about perfect for me, Chunnie. Like ... remember Bi? He was gorgeous and authoritative, but he was an asshole. Jinki worked me over so well, but I wasn’t attracted to him like that because he was like my little brother, and those are the only two guys that even came close to being domineering enough for me. Changmin is ... god, Yoochun, I just want to kneel at his feet and let him pet me.”
Yunho’s cheek flushed red. He’d never overtly told Yoochun or Junsu what he really needed in the bedroom, though he was sure they had figured it out. He kept going before Yoochun could say anything. “But he asked for permission to kiss me. He asks me and told me that he wants me to be happy, and he will do nothing that doesn’t make me happy. He’s just ... perfect.” Except the whole living in another realm thing.
“And he may just be perfect to get you into bed. You don’t know that.”
Yunho sighed. In any other situation, Yoochun’s advice would be perfect. But there was a black raven glaring at Yoochun from her perch on the back of the couch that Yoochun did not even see.
“You’re right,” Yunho said, “but I don’t think I can play around with him knowing that there isn’t a future. I want a family too.” And Changmin is giving you a way to have that.
Yoochun nodded. “Come over tonight. We’ll drink ourselves stupid.”
Yunho laughed. “Sounds good.”
Yoochun slapped his knee and stood up to go back to work.
Changmin would give him the family he always wanted. Changmin would give him the master and control that he craved. Changmin would give him the love and devotion he deserved.
But at what expense?
He looked over just in time to see Junsu and Yoochun share a kiss. Give up his family. Give up his dreams and goals. What would he do in Changmin’s realm? Lean back, get fucked and pop out babies? Even if he wanted to obey Changmin’s every whim, that did not sound appealing.
After finishing his drink and waving goodbye to YooSu, Yunho went home. He’d been home only a few minutes before his phone beeped with a text message.
BubbleButt: did you tell that Changmin jerk that if he breaks your heart we’re going to kick his ass? because we will
Yunho laughed and sent back a smiling face.
^/\-v-/\^
Yunho got drunk with YooSu. It was never a good idea when he was single because YooSu were cuddly and sexy when they were drunk, and they never cared who was watching them kiss and touch. It was a bad idea when he was single, but it was a worse idea when he wasn’t sure, when he wanted Changmin so much his soul ached.
By the time he staggered home the next morning, he only had a vague idea of who he was and the only thing on his mind was Changmin, Changmin, Changmin, Changmin, Changmin. Once in his apartment, he took the time to throw up, drink down some aspirin, and dropped into bed naked, flushed, and sweaty.
He woke up cool and comfortable. His fan had been turned on, blowing air over his sweaty skin. There was a blanket over his window, keeping his room dark. And there was someone sitting next to him.
He lifted his head and groaned at the sudden movement.
The beautiful angelic face of Kim Jaejoong smiled at him. A cool hand pressed against his shoulder, and a soft voice told him to rest. Yunho moaned and curled to his side, pillows and blankets bunched up around him. He was still naked, but he did not really care.
“Nevermore was worried about you and came to Changmin to take care of you, but Changmin sent me. He was not sure how you’d feel about seeing him so soon.”
Just another example of how perfect Changmin was. But was it a farce? Was he only waiting until Yunho fell in love with him to break his heart after it was too late?
Yunho buried his face into his pillow. Jaejoong ran his hand down Yunho’s bare side. It wasn’t sexual, just comforting.
“Changmin told me what he told you, and I think you need to know just a little bit more about who we are and what it means for you.”
Yunho cleared his throat. “Can I get some coffee first?”
Jaejoong chuckled. “Yes. And a shower. Stay here. I’ll get both ready for you.”
Yunho smiled and whispered his thanks. He was dozing when Jaejoong woke him back.
“You know, at Changmin’s castle, he has this tub that is gorgeous and always warm, and a perfect place to soak after sex or getting drunk.”
Yunho blinked and then scowled. “Had sex with Changmin, have you?”
Jaejoong laughed. “Of course. You’ve seen how sexy he is. And besides, Changmin has been desperate to find you for so long, and I will never say no to taking his mind off his problems.”
Yunho grumbled as he climbed out of bed. He was still naked but he was too tired to be embarrassed even after Jaejoong whistled at him. The water was already on, the bathroom steamed up. There was a towel folded on the counter, and a glass of deep red wine. Yunho was not sure what that was for, but it looked chilled. He picked up the glass by the stem and had a sip. It was the sweetest wine he’d ever had. Fruity, but what fruit, he had no idea. He took a couple more swallows and left the rest.
The water was warm, not too hot, almost too perfect. Yunho stood under the shower stream for a long time. The soap and shampoo he normally used had been replaced with more expensive brands. That irked him just a little bit. He assumed it was a gift, but there was nothing wrong with the products he had used before. The shampoo smelled of fresh air and cotton. The body wash had more of a cologne scent. The bottle said it was: “pine escape.”
More like pine arrogance.
Yunho used the products and vowed to go buy his own again. Or ask Jaejoong where they went.
When he finished with his shower, he climbed out, used the incredibly soft towel, and downed the rest of the wine. On the back of the door was a dark green robe. Yunho fingered the fluffy material, and with a sigh, put it on before going out into his apartment.
His mouth watered at the smell permeating the place.
Jaejoong was in his kitchen, wearing just his damn clingy pants and nothing else. He had scrolls of tattoos over his pale skin and more muscles than a normal man deserved.
“I hope you’re hungry.”
Yunho hadn’t been because he was sick, but as he mentally checked his body, he realized that the headache was gone and he felt ... normal. Except he was hungry.
Jaejoong spooned a heaping ladle of kimchi jjigae into a bowl. “I love the ingredients in this world,” he said. “Lots of amazing and spicy flavors that I plan on stealing for home.”
The rice cooker dinged.
“I wish we had electricity. I mean, we have other things that you guys don’t have, but the electricity has been nice and convenient.”
Yunho sat at his table and Jaejoong put the food in front of him. He went back to the counter for his own. Yunho took a bite and moaned at the flavors. It was probably the best kimchi jjigae he had ever had.
“Good? Awesome. I’m glad. Sometimes it’s a little intimidating to cook something new.” Jaejoong took a bite. “Not quite spicy enough but it will do.”
Yunho was glad that Jaejoong hadn’t added more spice to it.
“So you’re Changmin’s friend.”
“Yes, but I’m more than that. I am his bodyguard, his sword and his bow. I protect him in battles, and I am his second if he ever falls in a duel. I am his magician and teacher. I am his servant and do what he wishes, but I am also the leader of his soldiers. I was born into this role and I protect him with my life.”
Yunho shifted restlessly.
“And yes, when he needs it, we share a bed, but it is you he yearns for and you that he desires.” Jaejoong pointed at him with his spoon.
“He called you ‘your highness’.”
Jaejoong laughed. “The lover of a prince is always a prince. It is, of course, a joke since I have my own role in his life, but it is quite an honor to be the lover of a prince. In the eyes of our world, you are a prince, even if you were not born into the role and born into another clan. Though, when Nevermore claimed you as hers, you became part of the Ravens.”
Yunho stared at him with a look of patient disbelief. “And what exactly will I be doing except popping out babies as part of the Ravens?”
Jaejoong smirked. “Spreading your legs. You don’t need to be pregnant all the time.”
“Fuck you.”
Jaejoong laughed. “Changmin wants me to explain more of our world to you, but honestly, he should do that. But at least, I will ask this of you, as the one that will have to keep Changmin sane, let him explain, talk to him. In your eyes, bearing his children is probably the worst thing from your point of view of your role as Changmin’s gift.”
“His gift?”
Jaejoong smiled. “Yes. His gift. You are precious to him. He adores you. It will destroy him if you reject him. I am the one who must pick up the pieces, so let me know beforehand, please.”
Yunho sighed.
“Changmin was only a boy when he stood up to his father, the king, and all of the court to plead for the lives of your people. He already knew and understood that you would be upset with such destruction even if it was to prove a point. I stood next to him, only a few months older than the prince. He risked his life speaking for you.”
“Then let me roll over and express my thanks.”
Jaejoong smirked. “For Changmin. Not for me.”
Yunho huffed and finished eating his food. Jaejoong stood and poured them both a glass of the sweet, red wine.
“This is really good,” Yunho said and took a sip.
Jaejoong smiled. “It is from our realm. It is made from a quileebee berry. They are similar to strawberries. It is Changmin’s favorite, and he hoped that you would enjoy it.”
“And new towels, and toiletries, and ... anything else that he replaced with things that are beyond my budget?”
Jaejoong tilted his head to the side, and again, Yunho felt as if he was under the judging eyes of a raven. “I will tell him to stop doing that. He only wished to help you.”
Yunho nodded. “I know, but there is nothing wrong with what I have, and I will not be bought.”
Jaejoong smiled. “I like you, Yunho. That is exactly what I told him.”
“This world, where I am from no matter what you two say, is different. People aren’t just gifted to other people. We don’t just belong to people. I do like Changmin, I like him a lot, but I can’t, after only knowing him for a week, say ‘oh well I guess it’s destiny’ and follow him to wherever it is. I cannot do that. It isn’t fair to expect me to do that. I’ve grown up waiting for love. And Changmin may adore me, or the thought of me, but he has no idea who I am. I’ve only known him for a week!”
“Love?” Jaejoong said and glanced out the window.
Yunho did as well, seeing the bright white feathers of Jaejoong’s raven Apollo.
“Our world is not much different than that. I also told Changmin that he told you about us way too soon, but he did not want to continue to court you and have you fall in love and then leave him, broken hearted. He wanted you to understand who he was, so there were no secrets. He has adored you, and he wishes to love you. If you tell him that you do not want to go to our realm, then he will respect that and he will leave you alone.”
“I don't want to be a prize or a pet, like the ravens that follow you around.”
Jaejoong laughed. “You will learn that between myself and Apollo, I am the one who is the pet. Apollo was given to me when I was born, but it is I that serves him. In the week that you have had Nevermore by your side, can you honestly call her a pet?”
Yunho glanced over at the black raven perched on a lamp. She ruffled her feathers and squawked at him.
“Exactly,” Jaejoong continued. “We are a partnership. Changmin only wishes the same with you.”
“He's going to have to give me more time, then.”
Jaejoong smiled. “Spectacular. Does that mean you wish to see him?”
Yunho met and held Jaejoong’s eyes for a very long time. He could tell Jaejoong no and that would be the end of it. Changmin and his perfection would leave. Jaejoong would go with him. Yunho could send Nevermore away. She did not belong in a world where only Yunho saw her.
“Is there some pending doom in your world that relies on my quick cooperation? Like some evil sorcerer is going to take over the Raven clan unless I am there to help Changmin defeat him?”
Jaejoong laughed. “Not at all. The only pending doom is Changmin’s mother who has arranged a marriage with a noble girl, but that cannot happen without Changmin’s permission and he has not given it. Neither woman will give up until you are there by Changmin’s side and they see how incredibly focused Changmin is on you and only you.”
After another minute of silence, Jaejoong said, “Shall I tell his high and mighty arrogant highness that he may come and see you?”
Yunho smiled. Sort of. And then he shook his head. “I told Changmin that I'd call him. And that is another thing. Stop breaking into my apartment.”
Jaejoong threw his head back and laughed. He waved a hand at him. “Okay, okay.”
“How are you doing that anyway?”
Jaejoong lifted his hand and a swirl of white sparkled at his fingertips. “Magic. I told you that I was Changmin’s magician. Not many in our world are given the gift, but it runs in my family. It is why we have always been close to the royal family.”
The bottle of wine floated from the kitchen. It bobbled a little and Jaejoong grasped the neck before refilling their glasses. Honestly, if it wasn’t for the ravens that no one could see, Yunho would have been shocked.
“It does not work well in your world,” Jaejoong said, “but it is enough to move small things, including locks.”
“Well, stop it. It’s invasive.”
Jaejoong waved it away. “Consider it stopped.”
Yunho took another sip of wine. “Will Nevermore grow as large as Apollo and Odin?”
Jaejoong smiled. “Eventually. She is still young, like you. Apollo and Odin have been serving our families for hundreds of years.”
“Is there a law against telling other people about this?”
“You mean Yoochun and Junsu?”
“Yes.”
“There is, but Changmin is a prince, next in line to be king. He will let you do whatever you want to be happy. They may not believe you.”
“Are your eyes really blue?”
“Yes.”
“Being Changmin’s gift doesn't extend to sleeping with you, does it?”
Jaejoong laughed. “If you want. As I said, Changmin will let you do whatever you want to be happy.”
“Good. You’re gorgeous, but I’m a monogamous kind of a guy. Though YooSu may be interested since they can’t have Changmin.”
Jaejoong smirked. “Really? Interesting. I better wait until you tell them about us though. I’d hate to surprise them by floating a bottle of lube over so none of us have to get up.”
Part 4: The Kissable Boots
Part 2: The Dessert-Stealing Raven
Part 1: The Hottest Guy in the Room
.
Pairing: Changmin/Yunho (minor Yoochun/Junsu)
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: They are gods to me ... maybe they are actually gods ... either way, all I can do is worship them.
Summary: Changmin is tall dark and handsome in all the cliched romance novel ways. But he's also smart, sexy, intelligent, controlling, and perfect, and Yunho wants nothing more than to get on his knees and lick Changmin's boots. There's more to him than Yunho knows, and he should have figured it out based on the invisible ravens that follow Changmin around. But Yunho was pretty sure he'd been the only one that could see them.
Warning: mentioned mpreg not my fault. Changmin wanted babies with Yunho
Poster by me. :)
Part 3: The Advice of Best Friends
Yunho thought about it. He sat on the floor in the hallway and thought about it. Someone opened the door and Nevermore flew in. She came right to Yunho and perched upon his knee.
“Hey, man. You okay?”
Yunho looked up, away from Nevermore, to the man standing above him. It was one of the stylists from the salon.
“Yeah,” Yunho said, choking a little. “Just ...”
“Are you drunk?”
Yunho felt drunk. Off pain, desperation, fear. And lust. God, he wanted Changmin so much. Could he leave everything for him? Yunho wasn’t sure. He had only known Changmin for a week.
“Here. Let me help you up.”
Yunho clasped the man’s hand and he was hauled to his feet. His head spun and Nevermore protested. But only Yunho heard her.
“Do you need help up the stairs?”
Yunho shook his head. “No. Thanks. I’ll be all right.”
“You’re sure?”
Yunho nodded. He rubbed his face in his hands and then started up the stairs. He knew the guy had not left, but watched him stagger up the stairs. Nevermore settled on his shoulder, the brush of her wings felt like the brush of Changmin’s fingers. He unlocked the door with shaking hands and continued to stagger all the way to his bedroom. He’d hoped to be sharing it tonight.
He fell into bed with his clothes on and stared at the ceiling, thoughts whirling in his head. When the sun started to lighten the sky, Yunho hadn’t come to a decision and nothing yet made sense. He liked Changmin, he knew that much, and he liked that he belonged to someone, but the “belong” that Changmin expected was much different than the “belong” that Yunho thought.
His alarm went off, and Yunho rolled out of bed. He took a shower and brushed his teeth on automatic. He dressed in sweats and a hoody. There was no way he was going for a run, so he went right to Cheers to Java.
Nevermore followed him everywhere, even inside. He did not bother to keep her out. No one else could see her anyway.
“Wow, you look like shit,” Junsu said as a hello.
Yunho attempted to smile.
“Go sit down. I’ll bring your coffee.”
He nodded and went to the couch that he’d been curled up on with Changmin almost a week ago. It felt too big all by himself.
He tried to list things in his brain in order of importance. First was the whole having kids thing that he did not want to think about. Second was leaving his life. He really did want to be a lawyer and help couples like YooSu. Third was YooSu. They were his family. There were the people who he called mother and father, and his sister, but they hadn’t supported him when he came out of the closet. His father had kicked him out and told him not to come back without a wife and child. Did him bearing the children make him the wife? Would his father accept him back with the Prince of Darkness by his side and the heir to the Raven kingdom in his arms?
He strongly doubted that.
Yoochun brought his drink and sat next to him. “You look like shit.”
“So I’ve heard.” Yunho cradled the warm coffee cup and took a drink.
“Changmin dump you?”
Yunho shook his head. “I have a question for you.”
“Shoot.”
“If ... if you had the chance, would you be pregnant?”
“What the ... are you pregnant?” He smiled.
Yunho rolled his eyes. “No, dumbass. Would you do it? If they found out how to make men carry a kid, and between you and Junsu, only you were able to do it, would you do it?”
“Yes.”
“That easy?”
Yoochun smiled. “You know how much Junsu and I want a family, hyung. I’d turn my body over to be the first man to do it just to make Junsu happy.”
Yunho took a deep breath.
“Let’s work on same-sex marriage and equal rights first before you shove a fake uterus into my body.”
Yunho laughed. “Sorry. Just thinking about things.”
“Yesterday you were walking on air, and now you’re ... well, deflated.”
“Changmin just mentioned that his father expects him to have an heir. Rich guy, family company, all that stuff.”
“Ah.”
“He wants to date me, but he ... he had to tell me about that before anything else.”
“Well, you aren’t going to walk down the aisle with him,” Yoochun said. “You just met him. You haven’t even fucked yet.”
Yunho nodded. “I know. The problem is that I ... he’s just about perfect for me, Chunnie. Like ... remember Bi? He was gorgeous and authoritative, but he was an asshole. Jinki worked me over so well, but I wasn’t attracted to him like that because he was like my little brother, and those are the only two guys that even came close to being domineering enough for me. Changmin is ... god, Yoochun, I just want to kneel at his feet and let him pet me.”
Yunho’s cheek flushed red. He’d never overtly told Yoochun or Junsu what he really needed in the bedroom, though he was sure they had figured it out. He kept going before Yoochun could say anything. “But he asked for permission to kiss me. He asks me and told me that he wants me to be happy, and he will do nothing that doesn’t make me happy. He’s just ... perfect.” Except the whole living in another realm thing.
“And he may just be perfect to get you into bed. You don’t know that.”
Yunho sighed. In any other situation, Yoochun’s advice would be perfect. But there was a black raven glaring at Yoochun from her perch on the back of the couch that Yoochun did not even see.
“You’re right,” Yunho said, “but I don’t think I can play around with him knowing that there isn’t a future. I want a family too.” And Changmin is giving you a way to have that.
Yoochun nodded. “Come over tonight. We’ll drink ourselves stupid.”
Yunho laughed. “Sounds good.”
Yoochun slapped his knee and stood up to go back to work.
Changmin would give him the family he always wanted. Changmin would give him the master and control that he craved. Changmin would give him the love and devotion he deserved.
But at what expense?
He looked over just in time to see Junsu and Yoochun share a kiss. Give up his family. Give up his dreams and goals. What would he do in Changmin’s realm? Lean back, get fucked and pop out babies? Even if he wanted to obey Changmin’s every whim, that did not sound appealing.
After finishing his drink and waving goodbye to YooSu, Yunho went home. He’d been home only a few minutes before his phone beeped with a text message.
BubbleButt: did you tell that Changmin jerk that if he breaks your heart we’re going to kick his ass? because we will
Yunho laughed and sent back a smiling face.
^/\-v-/\^
Yunho got drunk with YooSu. It was never a good idea when he was single because YooSu were cuddly and sexy when they were drunk, and they never cared who was watching them kiss and touch. It was a bad idea when he was single, but it was a worse idea when he wasn’t sure, when he wanted Changmin so much his soul ached.
By the time he staggered home the next morning, he only had a vague idea of who he was and the only thing on his mind was Changmin, Changmin, Changmin, Changmin, Changmin. Once in his apartment, he took the time to throw up, drink down some aspirin, and dropped into bed naked, flushed, and sweaty.
He woke up cool and comfortable. His fan had been turned on, blowing air over his sweaty skin. There was a blanket over his window, keeping his room dark. And there was someone sitting next to him.
He lifted his head and groaned at the sudden movement.
The beautiful angelic face of Kim Jaejoong smiled at him. A cool hand pressed against his shoulder, and a soft voice told him to rest. Yunho moaned and curled to his side, pillows and blankets bunched up around him. He was still naked, but he did not really care.
“Nevermore was worried about you and came to Changmin to take care of you, but Changmin sent me. He was not sure how you’d feel about seeing him so soon.”
Just another example of how perfect Changmin was. But was it a farce? Was he only waiting until Yunho fell in love with him to break his heart after it was too late?
Yunho buried his face into his pillow. Jaejoong ran his hand down Yunho’s bare side. It wasn’t sexual, just comforting.
“Changmin told me what he told you, and I think you need to know just a little bit more about who we are and what it means for you.”
Yunho cleared his throat. “Can I get some coffee first?”
Jaejoong chuckled. “Yes. And a shower. Stay here. I’ll get both ready for you.”
Yunho smiled and whispered his thanks. He was dozing when Jaejoong woke him back.
“You know, at Changmin’s castle, he has this tub that is gorgeous and always warm, and a perfect place to soak after sex or getting drunk.”
Yunho blinked and then scowled. “Had sex with Changmin, have you?”
Jaejoong laughed. “Of course. You’ve seen how sexy he is. And besides, Changmin has been desperate to find you for so long, and I will never say no to taking his mind off his problems.”
Yunho grumbled as he climbed out of bed. He was still naked but he was too tired to be embarrassed even after Jaejoong whistled at him. The water was already on, the bathroom steamed up. There was a towel folded on the counter, and a glass of deep red wine. Yunho was not sure what that was for, but it looked chilled. He picked up the glass by the stem and had a sip. It was the sweetest wine he’d ever had. Fruity, but what fruit, he had no idea. He took a couple more swallows and left the rest.
The water was warm, not too hot, almost too perfect. Yunho stood under the shower stream for a long time. The soap and shampoo he normally used had been replaced with more expensive brands. That irked him just a little bit. He assumed it was a gift, but there was nothing wrong with the products he had used before. The shampoo smelled of fresh air and cotton. The body wash had more of a cologne scent. The bottle said it was: “pine escape.”
More like pine arrogance.
Yunho used the products and vowed to go buy his own again. Or ask Jaejoong where they went.
When he finished with his shower, he climbed out, used the incredibly soft towel, and downed the rest of the wine. On the back of the door was a dark green robe. Yunho fingered the fluffy material, and with a sigh, put it on before going out into his apartment.
His mouth watered at the smell permeating the place.
Jaejoong was in his kitchen, wearing just his damn clingy pants and nothing else. He had scrolls of tattoos over his pale skin and more muscles than a normal man deserved.
“I hope you’re hungry.”
Yunho hadn’t been because he was sick, but as he mentally checked his body, he realized that the headache was gone and he felt ... normal. Except he was hungry.
Jaejoong spooned a heaping ladle of kimchi jjigae into a bowl. “I love the ingredients in this world,” he said. “Lots of amazing and spicy flavors that I plan on stealing for home.”
The rice cooker dinged.
“I wish we had electricity. I mean, we have other things that you guys don’t have, but the electricity has been nice and convenient.”
Yunho sat at his table and Jaejoong put the food in front of him. He went back to the counter for his own. Yunho took a bite and moaned at the flavors. It was probably the best kimchi jjigae he had ever had.
“Good? Awesome. I’m glad. Sometimes it’s a little intimidating to cook something new.” Jaejoong took a bite. “Not quite spicy enough but it will do.”
Yunho was glad that Jaejoong hadn’t added more spice to it.
“So you’re Changmin’s friend.”
“Yes, but I’m more than that. I am his bodyguard, his sword and his bow. I protect him in battles, and I am his second if he ever falls in a duel. I am his magician and teacher. I am his servant and do what he wishes, but I am also the leader of his soldiers. I was born into this role and I protect him with my life.”
Yunho shifted restlessly.
“And yes, when he needs it, we share a bed, but it is you he yearns for and you that he desires.” Jaejoong pointed at him with his spoon.
“He called you ‘your highness’.”
Jaejoong laughed. “The lover of a prince is always a prince. It is, of course, a joke since I have my own role in his life, but it is quite an honor to be the lover of a prince. In the eyes of our world, you are a prince, even if you were not born into the role and born into another clan. Though, when Nevermore claimed you as hers, you became part of the Ravens.”
Yunho stared at him with a look of patient disbelief. “And what exactly will I be doing except popping out babies as part of the Ravens?”
Jaejoong smirked. “Spreading your legs. You don’t need to be pregnant all the time.”
“Fuck you.”
Jaejoong laughed. “Changmin wants me to explain more of our world to you, but honestly, he should do that. But at least, I will ask this of you, as the one that will have to keep Changmin sane, let him explain, talk to him. In your eyes, bearing his children is probably the worst thing from your point of view of your role as Changmin’s gift.”
“His gift?”
Jaejoong smiled. “Yes. His gift. You are precious to him. He adores you. It will destroy him if you reject him. I am the one who must pick up the pieces, so let me know beforehand, please.”
Yunho sighed.
“Changmin was only a boy when he stood up to his father, the king, and all of the court to plead for the lives of your people. He already knew and understood that you would be upset with such destruction even if it was to prove a point. I stood next to him, only a few months older than the prince. He risked his life speaking for you.”
“Then let me roll over and express my thanks.”
Jaejoong smirked. “For Changmin. Not for me.”
Yunho huffed and finished eating his food. Jaejoong stood and poured them both a glass of the sweet, red wine.
“This is really good,” Yunho said and took a sip.
Jaejoong smiled. “It is from our realm. It is made from a quileebee berry. They are similar to strawberries. It is Changmin’s favorite, and he hoped that you would enjoy it.”
“And new towels, and toiletries, and ... anything else that he replaced with things that are beyond my budget?”
Jaejoong tilted his head to the side, and again, Yunho felt as if he was under the judging eyes of a raven. “I will tell him to stop doing that. He only wished to help you.”
Yunho nodded. “I know, but there is nothing wrong with what I have, and I will not be bought.”
Jaejoong smiled. “I like you, Yunho. That is exactly what I told him.”
“This world, where I am from no matter what you two say, is different. People aren’t just gifted to other people. We don’t just belong to people. I do like Changmin, I like him a lot, but I can’t, after only knowing him for a week, say ‘oh well I guess it’s destiny’ and follow him to wherever it is. I cannot do that. It isn’t fair to expect me to do that. I’ve grown up waiting for love. And Changmin may adore me, or the thought of me, but he has no idea who I am. I’ve only known him for a week!”
“Love?” Jaejoong said and glanced out the window.
Yunho did as well, seeing the bright white feathers of Jaejoong’s raven Apollo.
“Our world is not much different than that. I also told Changmin that he told you about us way too soon, but he did not want to continue to court you and have you fall in love and then leave him, broken hearted. He wanted you to understand who he was, so there were no secrets. He has adored you, and he wishes to love you. If you tell him that you do not want to go to our realm, then he will respect that and he will leave you alone.”
“I don't want to be a prize or a pet, like the ravens that follow you around.”
Jaejoong laughed. “You will learn that between myself and Apollo, I am the one who is the pet. Apollo was given to me when I was born, but it is I that serves him. In the week that you have had Nevermore by your side, can you honestly call her a pet?”
Yunho glanced over at the black raven perched on a lamp. She ruffled her feathers and squawked at him.
“Exactly,” Jaejoong continued. “We are a partnership. Changmin only wishes the same with you.”
“He's going to have to give me more time, then.”
Jaejoong smiled. “Spectacular. Does that mean you wish to see him?”
Yunho met and held Jaejoong’s eyes for a very long time. He could tell Jaejoong no and that would be the end of it. Changmin and his perfection would leave. Jaejoong would go with him. Yunho could send Nevermore away. She did not belong in a world where only Yunho saw her.
“Is there some pending doom in your world that relies on my quick cooperation? Like some evil sorcerer is going to take over the Raven clan unless I am there to help Changmin defeat him?”
Jaejoong laughed. “Not at all. The only pending doom is Changmin’s mother who has arranged a marriage with a noble girl, but that cannot happen without Changmin’s permission and he has not given it. Neither woman will give up until you are there by Changmin’s side and they see how incredibly focused Changmin is on you and only you.”
After another minute of silence, Jaejoong said, “Shall I tell his high and mighty arrogant highness that he may come and see you?”
Yunho smiled. Sort of. And then he shook his head. “I told Changmin that I'd call him. And that is another thing. Stop breaking into my apartment.”
Jaejoong threw his head back and laughed. He waved a hand at him. “Okay, okay.”
“How are you doing that anyway?”
Jaejoong lifted his hand and a swirl of white sparkled at his fingertips. “Magic. I told you that I was Changmin’s magician. Not many in our world are given the gift, but it runs in my family. It is why we have always been close to the royal family.”
The bottle of wine floated from the kitchen. It bobbled a little and Jaejoong grasped the neck before refilling their glasses. Honestly, if it wasn’t for the ravens that no one could see, Yunho would have been shocked.
“It does not work well in your world,” Jaejoong said, “but it is enough to move small things, including locks.”
“Well, stop it. It’s invasive.”
Jaejoong waved it away. “Consider it stopped.”
Yunho took another sip of wine. “Will Nevermore grow as large as Apollo and Odin?”
Jaejoong smiled. “Eventually. She is still young, like you. Apollo and Odin have been serving our families for hundreds of years.”
“Is there a law against telling other people about this?”
“You mean Yoochun and Junsu?”
“Yes.”
“There is, but Changmin is a prince, next in line to be king. He will let you do whatever you want to be happy. They may not believe you.”
“Are your eyes really blue?”
“Yes.”
“Being Changmin’s gift doesn't extend to sleeping with you, does it?”
Jaejoong laughed. “If you want. As I said, Changmin will let you do whatever you want to be happy.”
“Good. You’re gorgeous, but I’m a monogamous kind of a guy. Though YooSu may be interested since they can’t have Changmin.”
Jaejoong smirked. “Really? Interesting. I better wait until you tell them about us though. I’d hate to surprise them by floating a bottle of lube over so none of us have to get up.”
Part 4: The Kissable Boots
Part 2: The Dessert-Stealing Raven
Part 1: The Hottest Guy in the Room
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