Shifting Fortunes 10/19
Title: Shifting Fortunes 10/19
Rating: NC -17
Pairings: Yunho/Jaejoong, Yoochun/Junsu, Changmin/Fic OC, Past!Jaejoong/Heechul, Eunhyuk/Donghae, Kyuhyun/Sungmin, Yesung/Ryeowook, ninja!Leeteuk/Kangin
Disclaimer: If I owned them, I'd make them act this out.
Summary: Jaejoong was raised in riches. Yunho has struggled most of his life just to keep food in his stomach. Jaejoong leaves his family and ends up working beside Yunho at a farm in the mountains. In a world of uncertainties, what is Jaejoong willing to give up in order to have everything?
A/N: Anything in italics is the present day, and then the fic goes back in time.
Part 10: Yunho's Second Taste of Luxury
Poster credit goes to sahmin I love you, my Failverto! ♥♥♥
YUNHO
Yunho climbed into his waiting taxi and told the driver the destination. He looked out the window but saw nothing more than lights streaking past. Why was he making a big deal about this? He remembered how closely Jae was sitting to Heechul. The soft touch of Heechul’s delicate hand on Jae’s knee.
Oh, yeah. That’s why.
2 ¼ years earlier …
“Babe. Babe. Yunnie? It’s time to get up.”
Yunho struggled against the soft voice in his ear and buried his face in his pillow. Soft fingers ran down his back. That was nice. He could go back to sleep. The fingers dug nails in and dragged them across his shoulders.
Yunho jerked alert with a cry. “That hurt.”
He glared at Jaejoong’s smiling face. “Sorry, babe, but it’s time to get ready.”
Yunho flopped back on his stomach. “I’d rather go back to sleep.”
Jae placed small openmouthed kisses along his back. “Get up before Leeteuk beats you to the bathroom. We’ll miss our train if he does.”
Yunho sighed and let Jae kiss, then he pushed to his hands and knees, stretched and climbed out of bed. It was his fault they were going anyway. He could have said no.
He should have said no.
Yunho was only in the shower for five minutes before Leeteuk was pounding on the door. Most of the guys just showered after work, but after the first day, Leeteuk decided that wasn’t enough and showered in the morning too. He spent half of the lunch break fixing his hair and getting presentable again.
“Hurry, Yunnie,” Leeteuk whined.
Yunho shut the water off, wrapped a towel around him and let Leeteuk have control of the bathroom.
Jae was already half dressed, in the same slacks they wore at Changmin’s wedding, but again he was having problems with the shirt. There were more choices on the bed than Yunho was expecting.
“Where’d you get those?” he asked.
“They’re Leeteuk’s. He’s letting me borrow one.”
“The green one, Jae,” Junsu said.
“The dark orange one would look better,” Sungmin said.
“You’ll look like a gay, nancy boy no matter what,” Kangin said. “Just put some fucking clothes on.”
“What should I wear, Yunnie?” Jae asked in a whiny voice. He was even pouting.
Yunho shook his head. “God, you’re such a girl when it comes to clothes.”
Jae shot him a look while the other guys laughed.
Yunho smiled an apology. “Wear the green one. Now, what should I wear?”
“See if I help you now,” Jae said and buttoned up the green shirt.
“Yunho hyung.”
Yunho turned to the sound of Kyuhyun’s deep, quiet voice. He held out a dark red shirt. “Sungmin and I thought you would look good in this shirt. It’s mine, so it should fit you.”
“Thanks.”
Yunho started dressing. He slipped the red shirt on and started buttoning it up.
Yoochun let out a low whistle. “Damn, Yunnie, that color looks good on you.”
Junsu made a fanning motion against his face and then dramatically swooned onto the bed. “So hot,” he murmured.
Yunho grinned and turned to Jae. He swallowed at the hungry look in those brown eyes. “Looks good,” Jae said and licked his lips.
“Stop eye-fucking each other,” Kangin said harshly.
Jae leaned in, gave him a quick kiss and said, “Kangin is right. We don’t have time for any kind of fucking. Hey, Kyu, you don’t mind if he returns it with some stains on it later, do you?”
Kyuhyun smiled. “If that’s the case, hyung, keep it.”
Jae picked up his coat. He look at it in disgust, and then threw it to the bed. “If we keep going to these functions, I’m going to have to go splurge on a proper trench coat.”
-----
A taxi dropped them off in front of a large estate house. Its yellow body stood out against the black sleek limousines in the drive. A butler bowed to them, acknowledged their invitation, and then ushered them in the door. Another took their coats for them, and then another led them to the ballroom. Soft classical music wafted down the hallway.
Jae was shaking, so Yunho took his hand.
“We can always leave right now,” Yunho said.
Jae tried to smile. The servant bowed them through a large set of double doors.
Yunho glanced around the immaculately decorated space and the immaculately dressed people, and immediately knew why Jae was so uncomfortable. Sure, they looked good at the farm, but here, they were sorely underdressed.
Blue and peach colored streamers, flowers and balloons scrolled along the walls, ceiling and tables. There was a dance floor and a stage where a live band was playing. A long table was covered in silver platters. Waiters wove through the guests with trays full of champagne.
“JOONGIE!”
They both turned as Donghae flew at them. He didn’t kiss Jae on the lips this time, but still hugged him tightly and kissed his cheek. And then to Yunho’s utter astonishment, he offered his hand. Yunho took it.
“Hey, the farm boy! Yunho, right?”
He nodded.
“Welcome. I’m glad you guys could make it.”
“Joongie!”
A girl in a pink dress threw herself at Jae, and he held her tightly. Yunho watched with narrowed eyes.
Donghae laughed. “That’s my wife. Heechul was right; you are overprotective.”
The girl finally backed off and kissed Jae’s cheek. “I’m completely pissed that you actually showed up because now you’re totally going to steal some of my spotlight and this is my wedding day, but I’m also very glad to see you, so instead of tossing you out like I planned on, I’m going to drag you over to the other girls and let you explain to Soonya why she has to marry Eunhyuk instead of you.”
She turned to Yunho. “I guess if I throw the farm boy out, you’ll leave, too.”
“Damn right,” Jae said.
“Whatever,” she said and waved her hand at Yunho. “Just don’t get all feely with each other.
I’m having a hard enough time keeping Eunhae off each other.”
She dragged Jae off. He shot an apologetic look at Yunho.
“I still think you’re scum,” Donghae said, “but try to have fun, okay? We really don’t need some gay, emo, farm boy spoiling everything.”
Donghae went in the direction of Jae and his wife, whose name Yunho didn’t catch, and Yunho followed. Three more girls all hugged Jae at once. And then Eunhyuk and Siwon took a turn.
Yunho didn’t see Heechul with the group.
He was introduced to all the girls. Donghae’s wife was Sunny. Soonya glared at him from a chair. She crossed her leg and waved it in irritation. She held a champagne glass in one hand and a lit cigarette in the other. She was pretty with long hair twisted up into spirals. Her brown eyes narrowed.
“So you’re the reason why I have to marry Eunhyuk instead of Jaejoong?”
“Soonya,” Jae said. “Don’t you dare blame him. It was my decision. I didn’t even meet him until after I left.”
She sniffed. “Whatever, Jae. I guess I should thank him for keeping me from marrying someone stupid like you.”
More than one in the group said her name in admonishment.
“Can you blame me?” she practically shouted. “I have to marry Eunhyuk.” Her voice fell and she repeated it. “I have to marry Eunhyuk.”
“Lucky you,” Donghae said and blew Eunhyuk a kiss.
She rolled her eyes.
“And lucky me,” Eunhyuk said. He turned to Yunho. “I should thank you. If it wasn’t for you, I’d never get to marry Soonya.”
“Um, you’re welcome?” Yunho offered.
Donghae laughed. “God, I love his ignorance.”
“Donghae,” Jaejoong said.
He waved a hand. “Calm down, Jae. Look, farm boy, you don’t get it. Eunhyuk here is new money. He wasn’t born into it; his father got lucky, so being married to Eunhyuk isn’t the greatest move status-wise. Sex wise.” He made an obscene noise. “Absolutely fantastic. Talk about deep throating.”
Donghae ignored the sounds of disgust from Soonya and Sunny and continued, “But for Soonya it’s the opposite. She’s old money. So being married to her is great for the status, but not for the sex. That girl cannot give head to save her life.”
“You shut the fuck up, Donghae,” Soonya said. She stood, flicked her cigarette at Donghae, who just barely dodged it, and stomped away.
The other girls followed her, and as Sunny passed, she said, “See what you’ve done now, Jae?”
“How is this my fault?” Jae said. “Donghae invited me.”
Donghae laughed. “I told you it would be fun, didn’t I?”
“Where’s Heechul?” Jae asked very carefully.
Yunho stiffened. Donghae looked at him from the corner of his eye.
Siwon replied, “He took off as soon as he saw you. I’m sure he’s around.”
“He better be. If he leaves before our performance, I’ll kill him,” Donghae said.
“You do know that’s the only reason I’m here, right?” Jae said.
“Heechul?” Eunhyuk said in surprise.
“No, the performance.”
Donghae shrugged. “I couldn’t care less if you came or not. Now it’s just going to be a bit more fun.”
“WHAT?”
They all turned at the yell.
“Oh, fuck,” Jae said, slumping in his seat.
Donghae laughed.
“What?” Yunho said.
“His father,” Donghae said.
They all stood as an irate, short man approached them. He glared at Jae while addressing Donghae. “Didn’t I make it clear that he was no longer part of my family, Donghae?”
“Yes, sir, but that doesn’t make him any less my friend.”
“I expect this trash to be removed from the premises immediately.”
“Good thing we’re not in your house then, isn’t it?”
“You’re an insufferable brat.”
“And you, with all do respect, sir, are a guest in my home, as is Jaejoong and his boyfriend Yunho.”
Yunho mentally cringed when those eyes swung to him.
“Oh, have you two not been introduced?” Donghae said, laughter in his voice. “Jung Yunho this is Mr. Kim Yoojoong. He is Jaejoong’s father.”
“Was,” Jae said quickly.
Donghae nodded. “He was Jae’s father.”
“You ungrateful whelp. I will not allow this blatant-“”
“Don’t make me call security, Mr. Kim Yoojoong,” Donghae said. “I expect all my guests to be treated with respect.”
Mr. Kim swung on his foot, and they caught, “We’ll see what your father has to say about this,” before he stormed off.
Donghae and Eunhyuk dissolved into fits of giggles.
“Holy shit,” Dongahe said. “That was even more fun than I imagined it.”
Yunho ignored them and turned to Jae who was again slumped in his seat, rubbing a hand over his eyes. “You okay?” he whispered.
“No, but I’ll be alright. I haven’t seen him in a year, if you’ll remember.”
“Hyungs?” Siwon said. “Do you need a drink? I’ll go get you a drink.”
“Just water,” Jae called after him.
“Get drunk,” Donghae said.
Jae shook his head. “No way.”
“Why not?”
“I’m not going to be anywhere near Heechul if I’m drunk. I might kill him.” Jae suddenly sat up and looked around the ballroom.
“What?” Eunhyuk asked.
“Is Shim Changmin here?”
Donghae laughed. “That buffoon? Yeah. Him and Sahar. Man, I can’t believe Lee Sooman let his daughter marry that.”
Yunho kept his mouth shut, but he must have made some noise because Donghae and Jae looked over at him.
“He is very protective,” Donghae said.
“It’s how he treats everyone he calls a friend,” Jae said. “Do you want to dare the masses and go find Changmin?”
Yunho sighed. “Not particularly, but I did promise Junsu to give him hugs and kisses.”
Jae grinned and stood. “Come on. I know you. There are only so many Donghae insults you can handle before you’re going to be kicking his ass, and that would be bad.”
Donghae scoffed. “Security would be here in two seconds.”
“That’s enough time to bloody your nose,” Yunho said.
Jae took his hand and led him away.
“At least he’s hot,” Eunhyuk said behind them, but Donghae scoffed.
Jae laughed. They walked, hand-in-hand, among the stares and whispers, but Yunho held his head high. Jae said hello to people he knew, and many of them stopped him to ask about how he was and to say how much they missed him. Yunho could tell that most of it was bullshit. That they all wondered why in the hell he’d leave this life for the one he chose. And just like at Changmin’s wedding, they whispered and pointed and looked at him, sometimes even when he was looking right at them.
Yunho finally spotted Changmin. He wore a black, pinstriped suit, a simple white shirt, and black tie. Simple, yes, but Yunho guessed that tie cost more than his whole outfit. Changmin looked a bit uncomfortable and kept tugging at his blazer. Sahar was on his arm, pretty in a bright blue dress. Her tight curls pulled up around her face. He nudged Jae and indicated the direction with his head.
Jae looked, smiled and said to an older woman who was talking to him, “Sorry, but I see an old friend. It was very nice to see you again.”
Changmin saw them coming. His face broke into a huge smile. He left Sahar’s side, and came to them. Throwing all grace aside, he hugged Yunho tightly and even lifted him off the ground a bit. He did the same to Jae.
“It’s so good to see both of you again,” he said, still clutching at Jae. “I can’t even tell you how much I miss you or the farm. It was hard work, but so much simpler than trying to fit into this high society shit.”
Sahar cleared her throat, and Changmin quickly let Jae go.
“Shim Sahar,” Jae said and bowed low. “It’s so good to see you again.”
Yunho copied him.
“Yes, well, you two picked a rather conspicuous event to cause some ruckus. People are already whispering about it, and now that Changmin has practically mauled you in the middle of the ballroom, we’re going to be dragged into it.”
“Sorry, love,” Changmin said, “but right now, I just don’t care.” He put an arm around Yunho and steered him toward the banquet tables. “I’ve been hungry since we got here, and I’m going to go eat. You mingle all you want. I’ll meet up with you later.”
Yunho glanced back. Sahar was scowling at them.
“Problems?” Jae asked.
“Only when we come to one of these functions, which is about every other week. She knows I don’t like it, and she knows I don’t fit in, but she expects me to anyway. I try my best, and I think I’ve done pretty well, but then we get home, and she tells me what I’ve done wrong and what I need to work on to improve. Honestly, I’d rather pull weeds all day than try to learn etiquette.”
Jae laughed. “It is a very precise skill.”
They picked up glass plates and filled them with meats and eggrolls and things Yunho didn’t know the names of. There were no empty tables, so Jae led them across the floor and they sat in the window sills and ate their food. The stuff Yunho didn’t like, Changmin ate for him.
“Honestly, Jae,” Yunho said. “Are you alright?”
Jae shut his eyes and sighed.
“What happened?” Changmin asked.
“Besides his friends being assholes and his father calling him a piece of trash, not much.”
Changmin laid a hand on Jae’s knee in support.
Jae put his hand over it and smiled. “I’m alright. I figure that I won’t see anyone here for a great long while, so what the fuck, huh?”
They sat by the window and talked for almost an hour. Changmin told him about being married: “I really do love her. She’s just impossible!” They told him about the farm: “You should see Kangin and Leeteuk. They’re actually friends!”
Changmin sighed. “I really miss it there. Hopefully I’ll be able to visit soon.”
Jae’s reply was cut off by a screech from a microphone, and then Donghae’s laughter. He stood on stage, a glass of champagne in his hand. “Sorry,” he said with a laugh. “Could the members of F5 please join me on stage?”
“F5?” Changmin said.
Yunho grinned. “Yep. The only reason I’m here.”
Jae stood up. “I thought you came to keep Heechul’s hands off me?”
“Secondary, love. Secondary.”
Yunho watched as Jae joined them onstage. He gave Eunhyuk a low five. They formed a circle, and then broke apart. Eunhyuk handed out microphones, and they all checked to make sure they worked.
“We’re going to put on a little show for you guys,” Donghae said while taking off his tux jacket. The others copied him. “We haven’t performed this together since we were eighteen or so, but I assure you, none of us have forgotten the joys of F5.”
Heechul undid the cuffs on his shirt and rolled up his sleeves. Eunhyuk just pulled the dress shirt off, leaving him in a white tank. Jae untucked his shirt.
“I can’t believe we’re doing this,” Heechul said into the mic.
“I can’t believe we don’t do this more often,” Eunhyuk replied.
“Thank god,” someone shouted from the crowd amid laughter.
Suddenly the lights went out. A spotlight ran around the stage as the familiar chords of H.O.T.’s Line Up echoed around the room.
Donghae sang first, and Yunho had to admit that he was pretty good, but then Jae started singing. His voice was perfect. Every note was hit right. Heechul and Eunhyuk rapped. Siwon sang and then Jae again. Through the whole song, it was like the world stopped whenever Jae started singing. The dancing was amazing. Yunho recognized it as the song that he caught Jae dancing to a couple months ago. And he was right: Eunhyuk and Donghae really knew how to move. They really had practiced this over and over. Half way through the song, Jae had a solo. His voice rang through the ballroom. He held the last note and pulled the mic away from his mouth.
“Holy shit!” Changmin shouted next to him.
Yunho nodded.
The song ended to raucous applause and screaming by the girls. Yunho added his own whistle to it.
“I wish I could sing that well,” Changmin said.
The guys bowed. They high fived, hit their fists and gave hugs. As they said thank you, Siwon said, “Guys. Let’s do one more.”
“No,” Heechul said as the crowd cheered.
“Come on,” Eunhyuk said.
“Yeah,” Jae said. “One more.”
Donghae grinned. “The groom wants one more, so we’re doing one more.”
Heechul rolled his eyes.
Donghae gathered them all together again. Whispers could be heard through the mics, and then Heehcul shouted, “No way!”
Donghae moved to the side, whispered to the DJ and then came back. They all stood in a line again. This time H.O.T.’s Candy started.
More than half the crowd laughed. They performed this song as well as they did the hard core one. Eunhyuk and Donghae were flirting with the girls, acting like real rocks stars, kneeling to get closer to them, and then winking. Only Heechul’s dancing lacked a bit of luster in the performance, but his voice was really good. Again, Jae outshone them, hitting high notes and dance steps perfectly.
Yunho could understand why Lee Sooman had wanted to sign them.
The song ended to even louder applause. Then Donghae said, “Thank you very much. We’ll now turn the time back to our deejay. Get dancing, people”
Heavy beats came from the speakers.
Yunho watched as the five guys on stage linked their arms and put their heads together again. They did some weird swaying and jumping routine, and then broke apart. Eunhyuk and Donghae immediately jumped off the stage and started dancing. Siwon got off the stage more majestically.
When Jae moved, Heechul grabbed his arm, pulled him close and whispered something. Jae shook his head. But Heechul wouldn’t let go. Jae’s eyes narrowed. He said something. Heechul shot his eyes around the ballroom, flung Jae’s arm away, and stalked off the stage. Jae dropped onto the dance floor. A few girls tried to dance with him, but he peeled them off and headed toward them.
Yunho smiled. “That was amazing. You guys are really good.”
“Yeah,” Changmin said. “Really, really good.”
“Nah,” Jae said and shrugged. “It’s just for fun.” His hair was wet with sweat and the green shirt stuck to his back.
“What did Heechul say to you?”
Jae downed a glass of champagne. “He asked me to go outside with him to talk. I told him I wasn’t interested in talking to him. I reminded him of the gossip and the eyes watching us, and then left.”
Yunho glowered. “Damn asshole.”
“Jaejoong-shi.”
They turned and then immediately bowed and gave greetings to Lee Sooman.
“That was quite a performance,” he said. “I could have made a lot of money off you boys.”
“Thank you, sir.”
“You’re a man on your own now, Jaejoong-shi. Free to make your own decisions and not be governed by this life.” Lee Sooman handed Jae a business card. “Keep in touch. Gentlemen.” He nodded and left them.
Jae looked at the card.
“Did he just tell you to go audition?” Changmin asked. “A personal invite?”
Yunho met Jae’s eyes. “Quite a chance.”
Jae shrugged. “Yeah.”
“Jae!” They turned to Donghae’s voice. He dropped an arm around Jae’s shoulder and said, “That was fantastic. We couldn’t have done it without you. Now, do me a favor and leave, alright?”
Jae pulled away from him. “Oh, so, it’s ‘you’ve done your duty, now go away.’? Fuck you, Donghae.”
Donghae winced and then scowled. “Look, Sunny is threatening to withhold sex from me tonight, and the sooner I can get her pregnant, the sooner I don’t have to touch her again.”
Jae shook his head. “Come on, Yunho. Let’s see if we can get on an earlier train.”
“That’s a good man,” Donghae said, slapped him on the back and walked off.
“You’re so lucky,” Changmin said.
“Why?”
He gestured with his head to an irritated Sahar coming in their direction. “You get to leave.”
Yunho and Jae headed for the door. Jae was stopped a few times as he said his goodbyes.
Eunhyuk and Siwon came to give him a hug. It was a few minutes before they were out in the large hallway.
Yunho took a deep breath. “That wasn’t so bad.”
“It’s about to get worse,” Jae said in distaste.
Heechul was stalking toward them. “God, I hate seeing you two together.”
“I’m not doing this tonight, Heechul,” Jae said. “I’m not causing a scene at Donghae’s wedding.”
“It’s what he wanted, so why the hell not?”
Jae didn’t stop, but grabbed Yunho’s arm and propelled them through the hallway.
“Damn it, Jae, I just want to talk to you,” Heechul said behind him.
“You always end up insulting either me or Yunho, so no thanks.”
“I’m sorry, alright?” Heechul was yelling now. “You were right.”
Jae stopped and turned around.
“You were right,” Heechul said more quietly. “It wasn’t worth losing you. I’m sorry I didn’t see it before, when you said that you loved me. But Yoojin isn’t worth it, being married isn’t worth it, and the money isn’t worth it. You are worth it. And I fucked that up. And I’m sorry.”
Yunho held his breath.
Jae laughed. It was an incredulous, pissed-off laugh. “Maybe if you spent more time listening to me instead of fucking me, you would have figured it out a lot sooner. Let’s get the fuck out of here, Yunnie.”
“I’ll always love you,” Heechul called from behind them.
Jae was pissed, but he managed to keep control of himself and politely ask that a taxi be called.
They sat on the stairs to wait, cool air fresh after the crowded ballroom. Yunho tried not to think about Heechul’s words. Was this just another ploy to try and get Jae back? Or did he really mean it? And worse, did Jae believe him? If Jae did believe him, would he leave?
“Hold me, would you?” Jae whispered.
Yunho put his arms around Jae.
“I shouldn’t have come,” Jae said. “Why did I think things would be different this time? And why the fuck is Heechul telling me this now?”
Good fucking question, Yunho thought. He thought about what would happen if Jae left him. Left the farm. His throat closed up, and he suddenly couldn’t breath. His arms tightened.
God, no. Please don’t let him leave me. He can’t leave. He couldn’t handle it, he knew that. Jae was part of him; it’d be like losing a leg. Jae understood him like no one else ever had. He always knew when Yunho needed to be comforted and left alone. He knew when Yunho needed to talk and when a kiss would be better. And god, the kisses. No one had ever memorized every part of his body like Jae had.
He suddenly realized that Jae was crying. Nothing loud, just soft gasps against his chest. He smoothed his hair, kissed his head and whispered nonsense at him until the cab came.
Part 11: Jaejoong's Opportunity
Part 9: Jaejoong's Invitation
Part 8: Yunho's First Taste of Luxury
Part 7: Jaejoong's Confession
Part 6: Yunho's Culture Shock
Part 5: Jaejoong's Past
Part 4: Yunho's Sanctuary
Part 3: Jaejoong's New Life
Part 2: Yunho's New Roommate
Part 1: Jaejoong's Predicament
.
Rating: NC -17
Pairings: Yunho/Jaejoong, Yoochun/Junsu, Changmin/Fic OC, Past!Jaejoong/Heechul, Eunhyuk/Donghae, Kyuhyun/Sungmin, Yesung/Ryeowook, ninja!Leeteuk/Kangin
Disclaimer: If I owned them, I'd make them act this out.
Summary: Jaejoong was raised in riches. Yunho has struggled most of his life just to keep food in his stomach. Jaejoong leaves his family and ends up working beside Yunho at a farm in the mountains. In a world of uncertainties, what is Jaejoong willing to give up in order to have everything?
A/N: Anything in italics is the present day, and then the fic goes back in time.
Part 10: Yunho's Second Taste of Luxury
Poster credit goes to sahmin I love you, my Failverto! ♥♥♥
YUNHO
Yunho climbed into his waiting taxi and told the driver the destination. He looked out the window but saw nothing more than lights streaking past. Why was he making a big deal about this? He remembered how closely Jae was sitting to Heechul. The soft touch of Heechul’s delicate hand on Jae’s knee.
Oh, yeah. That’s why.
2 ¼ years earlier …
“Babe. Babe. Yunnie? It’s time to get up.”
Yunho struggled against the soft voice in his ear and buried his face in his pillow. Soft fingers ran down his back. That was nice. He could go back to sleep. The fingers dug nails in and dragged them across his shoulders.
Yunho jerked alert with a cry. “That hurt.”
He glared at Jaejoong’s smiling face. “Sorry, babe, but it’s time to get ready.”
Yunho flopped back on his stomach. “I’d rather go back to sleep.”
Jae placed small openmouthed kisses along his back. “Get up before Leeteuk beats you to the bathroom. We’ll miss our train if he does.”
Yunho sighed and let Jae kiss, then he pushed to his hands and knees, stretched and climbed out of bed. It was his fault they were going anyway. He could have said no.
He should have said no.
Yunho was only in the shower for five minutes before Leeteuk was pounding on the door. Most of the guys just showered after work, but after the first day, Leeteuk decided that wasn’t enough and showered in the morning too. He spent half of the lunch break fixing his hair and getting presentable again.
“Hurry, Yunnie,” Leeteuk whined.
Yunho shut the water off, wrapped a towel around him and let Leeteuk have control of the bathroom.
Jae was already half dressed, in the same slacks they wore at Changmin’s wedding, but again he was having problems with the shirt. There were more choices on the bed than Yunho was expecting.
“Where’d you get those?” he asked.
“They’re Leeteuk’s. He’s letting me borrow one.”
“The green one, Jae,” Junsu said.
“The dark orange one would look better,” Sungmin said.
“You’ll look like a gay, nancy boy no matter what,” Kangin said. “Just put some fucking clothes on.”
“What should I wear, Yunnie?” Jae asked in a whiny voice. He was even pouting.
Yunho shook his head. “God, you’re such a girl when it comes to clothes.”
Jae shot him a look while the other guys laughed.
Yunho smiled an apology. “Wear the green one. Now, what should I wear?”
“See if I help you now,” Jae said and buttoned up the green shirt.
“Yunho hyung.”
Yunho turned to the sound of Kyuhyun’s deep, quiet voice. He held out a dark red shirt. “Sungmin and I thought you would look good in this shirt. It’s mine, so it should fit you.”
“Thanks.”
Yunho started dressing. He slipped the red shirt on and started buttoning it up.
Yoochun let out a low whistle. “Damn, Yunnie, that color looks good on you.”
Junsu made a fanning motion against his face and then dramatically swooned onto the bed. “So hot,” he murmured.
Yunho grinned and turned to Jae. He swallowed at the hungry look in those brown eyes. “Looks good,” Jae said and licked his lips.
“Stop eye-fucking each other,” Kangin said harshly.
Jae leaned in, gave him a quick kiss and said, “Kangin is right. We don’t have time for any kind of fucking. Hey, Kyu, you don’t mind if he returns it with some stains on it later, do you?”
Kyuhyun smiled. “If that’s the case, hyung, keep it.”
Jae picked up his coat. He look at it in disgust, and then threw it to the bed. “If we keep going to these functions, I’m going to have to go splurge on a proper trench coat.”
-----
A taxi dropped them off in front of a large estate house. Its yellow body stood out against the black sleek limousines in the drive. A butler bowed to them, acknowledged their invitation, and then ushered them in the door. Another took their coats for them, and then another led them to the ballroom. Soft classical music wafted down the hallway.
Jae was shaking, so Yunho took his hand.
“We can always leave right now,” Yunho said.
Jae tried to smile. The servant bowed them through a large set of double doors.
Yunho glanced around the immaculately decorated space and the immaculately dressed people, and immediately knew why Jae was so uncomfortable. Sure, they looked good at the farm, but here, they were sorely underdressed.
Blue and peach colored streamers, flowers and balloons scrolled along the walls, ceiling and tables. There was a dance floor and a stage where a live band was playing. A long table was covered in silver platters. Waiters wove through the guests with trays full of champagne.
“JOONGIE!”
They both turned as Donghae flew at them. He didn’t kiss Jae on the lips this time, but still hugged him tightly and kissed his cheek. And then to Yunho’s utter astonishment, he offered his hand. Yunho took it.
“Hey, the farm boy! Yunho, right?”
He nodded.
“Welcome. I’m glad you guys could make it.”
“Joongie!”
A girl in a pink dress threw herself at Jae, and he held her tightly. Yunho watched with narrowed eyes.
Donghae laughed. “That’s my wife. Heechul was right; you are overprotective.”
The girl finally backed off and kissed Jae’s cheek. “I’m completely pissed that you actually showed up because now you’re totally going to steal some of my spotlight and this is my wedding day, but I’m also very glad to see you, so instead of tossing you out like I planned on, I’m going to drag you over to the other girls and let you explain to Soonya why she has to marry Eunhyuk instead of you.”
She turned to Yunho. “I guess if I throw the farm boy out, you’ll leave, too.”
“Damn right,” Jae said.
“Whatever,” she said and waved her hand at Yunho. “Just don’t get all feely with each other.
I’m having a hard enough time keeping Eunhae off each other.”
She dragged Jae off. He shot an apologetic look at Yunho.
“I still think you’re scum,” Donghae said, “but try to have fun, okay? We really don’t need some gay, emo, farm boy spoiling everything.”
Donghae went in the direction of Jae and his wife, whose name Yunho didn’t catch, and Yunho followed. Three more girls all hugged Jae at once. And then Eunhyuk and Siwon took a turn.
Yunho didn’t see Heechul with the group.
He was introduced to all the girls. Donghae’s wife was Sunny. Soonya glared at him from a chair. She crossed her leg and waved it in irritation. She held a champagne glass in one hand and a lit cigarette in the other. She was pretty with long hair twisted up into spirals. Her brown eyes narrowed.
“So you’re the reason why I have to marry Eunhyuk instead of Jaejoong?”
“Soonya,” Jae said. “Don’t you dare blame him. It was my decision. I didn’t even meet him until after I left.”
She sniffed. “Whatever, Jae. I guess I should thank him for keeping me from marrying someone stupid like you.”
More than one in the group said her name in admonishment.
“Can you blame me?” she practically shouted. “I have to marry Eunhyuk.” Her voice fell and she repeated it. “I have to marry Eunhyuk.”
“Lucky you,” Donghae said and blew Eunhyuk a kiss.
She rolled her eyes.
“And lucky me,” Eunhyuk said. He turned to Yunho. “I should thank you. If it wasn’t for you, I’d never get to marry Soonya.”
“Um, you’re welcome?” Yunho offered.
Donghae laughed. “God, I love his ignorance.”
“Donghae,” Jaejoong said.
He waved a hand. “Calm down, Jae. Look, farm boy, you don’t get it. Eunhyuk here is new money. He wasn’t born into it; his father got lucky, so being married to Eunhyuk isn’t the greatest move status-wise. Sex wise.” He made an obscene noise. “Absolutely fantastic. Talk about deep throating.”
Donghae ignored the sounds of disgust from Soonya and Sunny and continued, “But for Soonya it’s the opposite. She’s old money. So being married to her is great for the status, but not for the sex. That girl cannot give head to save her life.”
“You shut the fuck up, Donghae,” Soonya said. She stood, flicked her cigarette at Donghae, who just barely dodged it, and stomped away.
The other girls followed her, and as Sunny passed, she said, “See what you’ve done now, Jae?”
“How is this my fault?” Jae said. “Donghae invited me.”
Donghae laughed. “I told you it would be fun, didn’t I?”
“Where’s Heechul?” Jae asked very carefully.
Yunho stiffened. Donghae looked at him from the corner of his eye.
Siwon replied, “He took off as soon as he saw you. I’m sure he’s around.”
“He better be. If he leaves before our performance, I’ll kill him,” Donghae said.
“You do know that’s the only reason I’m here, right?” Jae said.
“Heechul?” Eunhyuk said in surprise.
“No, the performance.”
Donghae shrugged. “I couldn’t care less if you came or not. Now it’s just going to be a bit more fun.”
“WHAT?”
They all turned at the yell.
“Oh, fuck,” Jae said, slumping in his seat.
Donghae laughed.
“What?” Yunho said.
“His father,” Donghae said.
They all stood as an irate, short man approached them. He glared at Jae while addressing Donghae. “Didn’t I make it clear that he was no longer part of my family, Donghae?”
“Yes, sir, but that doesn’t make him any less my friend.”
“I expect this trash to be removed from the premises immediately.”
“Good thing we’re not in your house then, isn’t it?”
“You’re an insufferable brat.”
“And you, with all do respect, sir, are a guest in my home, as is Jaejoong and his boyfriend Yunho.”
Yunho mentally cringed when those eyes swung to him.
“Oh, have you two not been introduced?” Donghae said, laughter in his voice. “Jung Yunho this is Mr. Kim Yoojoong. He is Jaejoong’s father.”
“Was,” Jae said quickly.
Donghae nodded. “He was Jae’s father.”
“You ungrateful whelp. I will not allow this blatant-“”
“Don’t make me call security, Mr. Kim Yoojoong,” Donghae said. “I expect all my guests to be treated with respect.”
Mr. Kim swung on his foot, and they caught, “We’ll see what your father has to say about this,” before he stormed off.
Donghae and Eunhyuk dissolved into fits of giggles.
“Holy shit,” Dongahe said. “That was even more fun than I imagined it.”
Yunho ignored them and turned to Jae who was again slumped in his seat, rubbing a hand over his eyes. “You okay?” he whispered.
“No, but I’ll be alright. I haven’t seen him in a year, if you’ll remember.”
“Hyungs?” Siwon said. “Do you need a drink? I’ll go get you a drink.”
“Just water,” Jae called after him.
“Get drunk,” Donghae said.
Jae shook his head. “No way.”
“Why not?”
“I’m not going to be anywhere near Heechul if I’m drunk. I might kill him.” Jae suddenly sat up and looked around the ballroom.
“What?” Eunhyuk asked.
“Is Shim Changmin here?”
Donghae laughed. “That buffoon? Yeah. Him and Sahar. Man, I can’t believe Lee Sooman let his daughter marry that.”
Yunho kept his mouth shut, but he must have made some noise because Donghae and Jae looked over at him.
“He is very protective,” Donghae said.
“It’s how he treats everyone he calls a friend,” Jae said. “Do you want to dare the masses and go find Changmin?”
Yunho sighed. “Not particularly, but I did promise Junsu to give him hugs and kisses.”
Jae grinned and stood. “Come on. I know you. There are only so many Donghae insults you can handle before you’re going to be kicking his ass, and that would be bad.”
Donghae scoffed. “Security would be here in two seconds.”
“That’s enough time to bloody your nose,” Yunho said.
Jae took his hand and led him away.
“At least he’s hot,” Eunhyuk said behind them, but Donghae scoffed.
Jae laughed. They walked, hand-in-hand, among the stares and whispers, but Yunho held his head high. Jae said hello to people he knew, and many of them stopped him to ask about how he was and to say how much they missed him. Yunho could tell that most of it was bullshit. That they all wondered why in the hell he’d leave this life for the one he chose. And just like at Changmin’s wedding, they whispered and pointed and looked at him, sometimes even when he was looking right at them.
Yunho finally spotted Changmin. He wore a black, pinstriped suit, a simple white shirt, and black tie. Simple, yes, but Yunho guessed that tie cost more than his whole outfit. Changmin looked a bit uncomfortable and kept tugging at his blazer. Sahar was on his arm, pretty in a bright blue dress. Her tight curls pulled up around her face. He nudged Jae and indicated the direction with his head.
Jae looked, smiled and said to an older woman who was talking to him, “Sorry, but I see an old friend. It was very nice to see you again.”
Changmin saw them coming. His face broke into a huge smile. He left Sahar’s side, and came to them. Throwing all grace aside, he hugged Yunho tightly and even lifted him off the ground a bit. He did the same to Jae.
“It’s so good to see both of you again,” he said, still clutching at Jae. “I can’t even tell you how much I miss you or the farm. It was hard work, but so much simpler than trying to fit into this high society shit.”
Sahar cleared her throat, and Changmin quickly let Jae go.
“Shim Sahar,” Jae said and bowed low. “It’s so good to see you again.”
Yunho copied him.
“Yes, well, you two picked a rather conspicuous event to cause some ruckus. People are already whispering about it, and now that Changmin has practically mauled you in the middle of the ballroom, we’re going to be dragged into it.”
“Sorry, love,” Changmin said, “but right now, I just don’t care.” He put an arm around Yunho and steered him toward the banquet tables. “I’ve been hungry since we got here, and I’m going to go eat. You mingle all you want. I’ll meet up with you later.”
Yunho glanced back. Sahar was scowling at them.
“Problems?” Jae asked.
“Only when we come to one of these functions, which is about every other week. She knows I don’t like it, and she knows I don’t fit in, but she expects me to anyway. I try my best, and I think I’ve done pretty well, but then we get home, and she tells me what I’ve done wrong and what I need to work on to improve. Honestly, I’d rather pull weeds all day than try to learn etiquette.”
Jae laughed. “It is a very precise skill.”
They picked up glass plates and filled them with meats and eggrolls and things Yunho didn’t know the names of. There were no empty tables, so Jae led them across the floor and they sat in the window sills and ate their food. The stuff Yunho didn’t like, Changmin ate for him.
“Honestly, Jae,” Yunho said. “Are you alright?”
Jae shut his eyes and sighed.
“What happened?” Changmin asked.
“Besides his friends being assholes and his father calling him a piece of trash, not much.”
Changmin laid a hand on Jae’s knee in support.
Jae put his hand over it and smiled. “I’m alright. I figure that I won’t see anyone here for a great long while, so what the fuck, huh?”
They sat by the window and talked for almost an hour. Changmin told him about being married: “I really do love her. She’s just impossible!” They told him about the farm: “You should see Kangin and Leeteuk. They’re actually friends!”
Changmin sighed. “I really miss it there. Hopefully I’ll be able to visit soon.”
Jae’s reply was cut off by a screech from a microphone, and then Donghae’s laughter. He stood on stage, a glass of champagne in his hand. “Sorry,” he said with a laugh. “Could the members of F5 please join me on stage?”
“F5?” Changmin said.
Yunho grinned. “Yep. The only reason I’m here.”
Jae stood up. “I thought you came to keep Heechul’s hands off me?”
“Secondary, love. Secondary.”
Yunho watched as Jae joined them onstage. He gave Eunhyuk a low five. They formed a circle, and then broke apart. Eunhyuk handed out microphones, and they all checked to make sure they worked.
“We’re going to put on a little show for you guys,” Donghae said while taking off his tux jacket. The others copied him. “We haven’t performed this together since we were eighteen or so, but I assure you, none of us have forgotten the joys of F5.”
Heechul undid the cuffs on his shirt and rolled up his sleeves. Eunhyuk just pulled the dress shirt off, leaving him in a white tank. Jae untucked his shirt.
“I can’t believe we’re doing this,” Heechul said into the mic.
“I can’t believe we don’t do this more often,” Eunhyuk replied.
“Thank god,” someone shouted from the crowd amid laughter.
Suddenly the lights went out. A spotlight ran around the stage as the familiar chords of H.O.T.’s Line Up echoed around the room.
Donghae sang first, and Yunho had to admit that he was pretty good, but then Jae started singing. His voice was perfect. Every note was hit right. Heechul and Eunhyuk rapped. Siwon sang and then Jae again. Through the whole song, it was like the world stopped whenever Jae started singing. The dancing was amazing. Yunho recognized it as the song that he caught Jae dancing to a couple months ago. And he was right: Eunhyuk and Donghae really knew how to move. They really had practiced this over and over. Half way through the song, Jae had a solo. His voice rang through the ballroom. He held the last note and pulled the mic away from his mouth.
“Holy shit!” Changmin shouted next to him.
Yunho nodded.
The song ended to raucous applause and screaming by the girls. Yunho added his own whistle to it.
“I wish I could sing that well,” Changmin said.
The guys bowed. They high fived, hit their fists and gave hugs. As they said thank you, Siwon said, “Guys. Let’s do one more.”
“No,” Heechul said as the crowd cheered.
“Come on,” Eunhyuk said.
“Yeah,” Jae said. “One more.”
Donghae grinned. “The groom wants one more, so we’re doing one more.”
Heechul rolled his eyes.
Donghae gathered them all together again. Whispers could be heard through the mics, and then Heehcul shouted, “No way!”
Donghae moved to the side, whispered to the DJ and then came back. They all stood in a line again. This time H.O.T.’s Candy started.
More than half the crowd laughed. They performed this song as well as they did the hard core one. Eunhyuk and Donghae were flirting with the girls, acting like real rocks stars, kneeling to get closer to them, and then winking. Only Heechul’s dancing lacked a bit of luster in the performance, but his voice was really good. Again, Jae outshone them, hitting high notes and dance steps perfectly.
Yunho could understand why Lee Sooman had wanted to sign them.
The song ended to even louder applause. Then Donghae said, “Thank you very much. We’ll now turn the time back to our deejay. Get dancing, people”
Heavy beats came from the speakers.
Yunho watched as the five guys on stage linked their arms and put their heads together again. They did some weird swaying and jumping routine, and then broke apart. Eunhyuk and Donghae immediately jumped off the stage and started dancing. Siwon got off the stage more majestically.
When Jae moved, Heechul grabbed his arm, pulled him close and whispered something. Jae shook his head. But Heechul wouldn’t let go. Jae’s eyes narrowed. He said something. Heechul shot his eyes around the ballroom, flung Jae’s arm away, and stalked off the stage. Jae dropped onto the dance floor. A few girls tried to dance with him, but he peeled them off and headed toward them.
Yunho smiled. “That was amazing. You guys are really good.”
“Yeah,” Changmin said. “Really, really good.”
“Nah,” Jae said and shrugged. “It’s just for fun.” His hair was wet with sweat and the green shirt stuck to his back.
“What did Heechul say to you?”
Jae downed a glass of champagne. “He asked me to go outside with him to talk. I told him I wasn’t interested in talking to him. I reminded him of the gossip and the eyes watching us, and then left.”
Yunho glowered. “Damn asshole.”
“Jaejoong-shi.”
They turned and then immediately bowed and gave greetings to Lee Sooman.
“That was quite a performance,” he said. “I could have made a lot of money off you boys.”
“Thank you, sir.”
“You’re a man on your own now, Jaejoong-shi. Free to make your own decisions and not be governed by this life.” Lee Sooman handed Jae a business card. “Keep in touch. Gentlemen.” He nodded and left them.
Jae looked at the card.
“Did he just tell you to go audition?” Changmin asked. “A personal invite?”
Yunho met Jae’s eyes. “Quite a chance.”
Jae shrugged. “Yeah.”
“Jae!” They turned to Donghae’s voice. He dropped an arm around Jae’s shoulder and said, “That was fantastic. We couldn’t have done it without you. Now, do me a favor and leave, alright?”
Jae pulled away from him. “Oh, so, it’s ‘you’ve done your duty, now go away.’? Fuck you, Donghae.”
Donghae winced and then scowled. “Look, Sunny is threatening to withhold sex from me tonight, and the sooner I can get her pregnant, the sooner I don’t have to touch her again.”
Jae shook his head. “Come on, Yunho. Let’s see if we can get on an earlier train.”
“That’s a good man,” Donghae said, slapped him on the back and walked off.
“You’re so lucky,” Changmin said.
“Why?”
He gestured with his head to an irritated Sahar coming in their direction. “You get to leave.”
Yunho and Jae headed for the door. Jae was stopped a few times as he said his goodbyes.
Eunhyuk and Siwon came to give him a hug. It was a few minutes before they were out in the large hallway.
Yunho took a deep breath. “That wasn’t so bad.”
“It’s about to get worse,” Jae said in distaste.
Heechul was stalking toward them. “God, I hate seeing you two together.”
“I’m not doing this tonight, Heechul,” Jae said. “I’m not causing a scene at Donghae’s wedding.”
“It’s what he wanted, so why the hell not?”
Jae didn’t stop, but grabbed Yunho’s arm and propelled them through the hallway.
“Damn it, Jae, I just want to talk to you,” Heechul said behind him.
“You always end up insulting either me or Yunho, so no thanks.”
“I’m sorry, alright?” Heechul was yelling now. “You were right.”
Jae stopped and turned around.
“You were right,” Heechul said more quietly. “It wasn’t worth losing you. I’m sorry I didn’t see it before, when you said that you loved me. But Yoojin isn’t worth it, being married isn’t worth it, and the money isn’t worth it. You are worth it. And I fucked that up. And I’m sorry.”
Yunho held his breath.
Jae laughed. It was an incredulous, pissed-off laugh. “Maybe if you spent more time listening to me instead of fucking me, you would have figured it out a lot sooner. Let’s get the fuck out of here, Yunnie.”
“I’ll always love you,” Heechul called from behind them.
Jae was pissed, but he managed to keep control of himself and politely ask that a taxi be called.
They sat on the stairs to wait, cool air fresh after the crowded ballroom. Yunho tried not to think about Heechul’s words. Was this just another ploy to try and get Jae back? Or did he really mean it? And worse, did Jae believe him? If Jae did believe him, would he leave?
“Hold me, would you?” Jae whispered.
Yunho put his arms around Jae.
“I shouldn’t have come,” Jae said. “Why did I think things would be different this time? And why the fuck is Heechul telling me this now?”
Good fucking question, Yunho thought. He thought about what would happen if Jae left him. Left the farm. His throat closed up, and he suddenly couldn’t breath. His arms tightened.
God, no. Please don’t let him leave me. He can’t leave. He couldn’t handle it, he knew that. Jae was part of him; it’d be like losing a leg. Jae understood him like no one else ever had. He always knew when Yunho needed to be comforted and left alone. He knew when Yunho needed to talk and when a kiss would be better. And god, the kisses. No one had ever memorized every part of his body like Jae had.
He suddenly realized that Jae was crying. Nothing loud, just soft gasps against his chest. He smoothed his hair, kissed his head and whispered nonsense at him until the cab came.
Part 11: Jaejoong's Opportunity
Part 9: Jaejoong's Invitation
Part 8: Yunho's First Taste of Luxury
Part 7: Jaejoong's Confession
Part 6: Yunho's Culture Shock
Part 5: Jaejoong's Past
Part 4: Yunho's Sanctuary
Part 3: Jaejoong's New Life
Part 2: Yunho's New Roommate
Part 1: Jaejoong's Predicament
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