Smile Sunshine ★/ oneshot.
Pairing: kaisoo, minor baekyeol
Rating: PG-13
Word Count: 6,079
Summay: When Luhan calls into Kyungsoo's radio show and tells him of a dancer named Kim Jongin, he can't seem to get the boy out of his mind. Meeting him only makes it worse.
Author's Note: I wrote this for my friend's birthday. She wanted kaisoo fluff so I hope I'm delivering.
While Kim Jongin has never felt out of place, Do Kyungsoo always has. It’s not so much that Kyungsoo was ever bullied growing up or that he lacked friends. Kyungsoo had great friends, especially his best friend Byun Baekhyun who lived next door (although he basically lived at Kyungsoo’s more than half the time). Kyungsoo can’t quite place what it is - what he feels has kept him separated from those around him - not by much, just slivers, moments, small thoughts and feelings, seconds here and there where Kyungsoo feels so alone he can’t breathe.
He doesn’t mind, though, at least not most of the time. Because he does have great friends. Baekhyun’s boyfriend, a silly boy named Park Chanyeol, is always joking around with Kyungsoo and he gives the world’s best hugs. So yeah. Kyungsoo is happy enough. Most of the time.
Except, you know, when he isn’t.
But Kyungsoo makes it through those days all right, too. His job is nice, running a small radio show at five in the morning. Almost no one listens and while he’s open for calls the whole two hours, he only gets a few (some of which have been complaints that his voice is too sweet and people who were using the show as an alarm fell back asleep to the sound of his voice).
And that’s when he first hears of Kim Jongin. It’s a Thursday. Thursdays are his favourite - not only his Friday around the corner, but more people call on Thursday than any other day. (Of course, half of the calls are from Baekhyun or Chanyeol or Minseok, but they still count for something.)
This number, though, isn’t one he recognizes. He doesn’t totally rule out his friends, though, especially Minseok who is often waking up in strange places. He smiles as he answers it with a bright, “Hello, this is Do Kyungsoo here at Smile Sunshine!”
“Um hi,” the voice says; it’s shaky, accented, and it makes Kyungsoo grin. “This is kind of random, but have you heard of Kim Jongin at all?”
Kyungsoo pauses and then replies, “I don’t think so. Who is he?”
Kyungsoo can hear the smile in his voice as he says, “He’s a new dancer that’s getting pretty big. I know that you like art and music and all things related so I thought you might know him and enjoy him if you haven’t.”
“Really? Wow, thank you for thinking of me,” the host gushes, blushing. Kyungsoo is always amazed when people remember him. There is nothing sweeter in his mind that having something remind someone of him. He likes being thought about and likes mattering to people.
“Of course!” the other sings, his voice so sweet. “I wake up early just to listen to your show... Oh wow. That sounds so weird.”
“Honestly?” Kyungsoo asks. “I was sure the only people that listened were those getting back from late nights of drinking and those waking up early for work. I’m so happy to know someone actually wants to listen to me.”
“Of course!” he sings again with a laugh. “I was always so scared to call in, but I’m really happy I did. You’re really nice, Kyungsoo-sshi.”
“You’re the nice one. I’m the one that forgot to ask your name when we started talking!” Kyungsoo adds with a laugh of his own. “Sorry. What was your name?”
“Luhan.”
“That’s sweet,” Kyungsoo sings, his voice light as air, sweet as sugar. “Oh! I just noticed I have another call. It was great talking to you, Luhan. Take care!” Kyungsoo switches calls and says again in his bright voice, “Hey, this is Do Kyungsoo here on Smile Sunshine!”
“Kyungsoo-ah, did you remember to turn off the oven when you left this morning?”
It’s Baekhyun, of course. Who else would it be? Eyes wide, Kyungsoo replies, “Did I? I don’t even remember turning it on.”
It’s quite for a second before Baek laughs, loud, and Kyungsoo can hear another voice as well - probably Chanyeol’s. “Sorry, it was Chanyeol’s idea. He thought it would be really funny,” he struggles to say between laughs. Kyungsoo shakes his head and sighs.
“As I just learned, I have listeners that actually care about this show, so I’m going to hang up on you now. See you at home, Hyung.” Kyungsoo sighs again as he hangs up the call. “Sorry about the guys. Don’t ever roommate with your best friend. It’s a bad idea; I promise. Anyway, here’s a song by J Rabbit - Falling in Love.”
Kyungsoo plays the song, falling into the music, humming along. He’s almost done for the day - probably a few more songs, maybe another phone call if he’s lucky. Sometimes he gets calls asking about the weather, how cold it was when he woke up, what kind of clothes they should wear that day. It’s stupid, but Kyungsoo loves talking to people about it. He just loves to talk to people about anything, really.
It’s stupid, but Kyungsoo likes the thought - that fact - that for some people, he’s the first thing they hear when they wake up. Like he’s the morning breaking, the sun rising. Kyungsoo doesn’t know where these thoughts are coming from, but he’s lost in them as the song continues to play out - so lost that he doesn’t notice the song has ended for just over thirty seconds.
Laughing, Kyungsoo comments, “Sorry! I got really lost in that song. I thought we would mix it up - there’s a song by S.E.S.” Kyungsoo plays the song and is determined to not get lost, so he sings along, softly, almost mumbling. When the chorus comes, though, he can’t help himself and belts out the words. But like an idiot, Kyungsoo forgot to turn his mic off and his voice is heard by everyone listening.
When he notices, he throws out a million apologies. Thankfully his show is almost over - one more song, tops, but he notices he has a call and decides to answer that as well, with the best “Hi, this is Do Kyungsoo and you are on Smile Sunshine!” as he can.
“You have a great voice,” is what he hears on the other line. Kyungsoo’s eyes widen and his face flushes. “I just wanted to tell you. You should be performing.”
And Kyungsoo wants to say something amazing - something sweet and smart and caring but he can’t think of anything. Compliments are hard; compliments are foreign. So he settles on a very weak, “Wow, thank you,” that’s almost inaudible. “I feel so special today...” he adds seconds later.
“You are.”
“And who are you? Er, I mean, what’s your name?”
“My name is Kim Jongin.” There is silence for just a small second before he says, “And I like Do Kyungsoo.”
Kyungsoo’s head is reeling when he heads home. The sun is shining but still not very high in the sky. The wind is light and blows against his skin, messing with his hair. Kyungsoo feels light enough to be carried by the wind - but to where?
Anywhere, Kyungsoo decides, and gives himself to the wind. But it doesn’t take him anywhere, he is still grounded, his feet firmly planted on the ground. And that’s where Kyungsoo belongs and he knows it. He can’t really imagine any other life than the one he has now.
It doesn’t stop him from dreaming, though. His dreams start as they always do - with him singing. This time, it’s the song he’s been working on lately. It’s still messy, with hanging words and shifty harmonies. But Kyungsoo is happy in ways he normally isn’t. He always is when he sings.
The dream changes soon and he is no longer alone. There is just one person in front of him and although Kyungsoo has never seen him before, he knows who it is. Kim Jongin. He’s a blur, no distinguishing features. But Kyungsoo feels that it’s him - this boy he doesn’t know but apparent knows him and apparently he should know him as well. He hears the boy’s words ring in his head again and again. I like Do Kyungsoo. I like Do Kyungsoo. I like Do Kyungsoo.
His dream carries him home. He feels like he is walking on clouds as he steps inside. Baekhyun is the first thing he sees. “Bye Kyungsoo-yah,” he calls stepping outside. “Feel free to kick out Chanyeol whenever you want.” Kyungsoo nods and waves. Chanyeol spends more nights here than he does at his own place.
And there he is - on the couch, watching TV. He uses the TV more than anyone else either. It’s okay, though, and Kyungsoo falls down next to him, putting his head on the taller boy’s chest. The other smiles, putting his arm around him. “Good show?”
Kyungsoo nods. “It was really good. Except you guys are idiots.”
“I know.”
The younger boy sighs. He tries to focus on the TV; it’s the news and Kyungsoo at least likes to pretend he knows what’s going on in the world. But instead he falls asleep atop Chanyeol. And he dreams more of singing and a pretty boy who dances along.
Days later, Kyungsoo has almost forgotten Kim Jongin. He can’t completely forget him, of course, his words still burnt into the back of his mind, occasionally making him smile broadly out of nowhere. But there wasn’t much to think about. He had googled the boy, but all he saw were blurry pictures of him dancing - all of which looked amazing, but it really gave him no idea of who the boy was.
So he filled his thoughts with other things. Minseok and him went out on Friday night to a movie. On Saturday Kyungsoo cleaned the house and then went to a club with Baekhyun and Chanyeol - which wasn’t bad, but being a third wheel isn’t exactly the most enjoyable thing (especially because wow they make out way too much).
There was nothing else of note. And it’s Tuesday and Kyungsoo is half way through his show. No one has called and his music selection has been very sporadic. Currently it’s a song by One Direction. Kyungsoo is unsure why he chose this song, but it’s playing and he feels a little ridiculous.
When it’s done, Kyungsoo apologizes for the song choice. “Next we’ll play something a bit more topical. So here is Henry Lau with... Oh wait. It appears I have a call!” Kyungsoo is beaming now and answers the call with his normal introduction.
“Hi Kyungsoo-sshi. It’s Luhan. I called last week.”
“Oh! It’s so nice to hear from you. I hope you have been well.”
“I have been, thank you. I was just wondering if you got a chance to see Jongin dance.”
“No, I haven’t,” Kyungsoo admits as he hears the voice in his head again - I like Do Kyungsoo; I like Do Kyungsoo. “You never told me where to go to see him dance.”
“Right!” Luhan says, grinning. “Stupid me. I actually think he’s performing tonight. You should go. He’s going to be at the National Theater of Korea.”
“He is?” Kyungsoo asks, a bit surprised. “But it’s the ballet tonight, right?”
“Yep!”
“Oh, okay.” Kyungsoo isn’t sure why he’s so surprised - he had no idea what kind of dance this Kim Jongin did - Luhan never said and he definitely didn’t when he called in. It’s his voice, Kyungsoo decides on. It was so rich and smooth and wow ballet was the last thing that to cross his mind.
“I’ll be there tonight. I hope to see you!” A second later, Luhan adds, “And I liked the One Direction. It was a fun surprise.” Kyungsoo blushes and grins and he is so glad that no one can see his face.
“Thanks for calling again, Luhan. As I’m sure you all know, my phone is open for calls and I know it’s early, but I’m a great person to talk to while you ready yourself for work.” Kyungsoo chuckles and then says, “Now I’ll go ahead and play Henry’s 1-4-3.”
As far as he could remember, Kyungsoo never mentioned on his show how much he loved ballet. He can’t think of any reason Luhan would have known this. He was planning on going to the ballet later this week, but tonight is as good as any. He was able to drag Baekhyun with him with the promise of cake.
They settle into their seats, all dressed up. Kyungsoo, who often frequents these things, has a nice suit on. Baekhyun has a blazer with the nicest black jeans he owns and one of Kyungsoo’s ties. Their seats aren’t great, but they can see the whole stage, which is good enough for Kyungsoo. He’s too poor to afford great seats.
It starts not too long after they’ve settled in. It’s a story Kyungsoo hasn’t heard before about a ghost who falls in love with a human. The human is played by a Kim Jongin. He doesn’t show up for the first twenty minutes and Kyungsoo finds himself growing anxious. He wants to see this boy - this boy he feels such a deep connection to for no real reason.
And when he sees Kim Jongin, Kyungsoo loses all thoughts. There is nothing in his head but the boy’s dancing. He is the definition of graceful, his limbs flowing, moving in such rhythm and with such precision. It entrances the young Kyungsoo. He is lost in everything the other does. His eyes don’t leave him - he doesn’t see anyone else, not the ghost, not any of the other dancers. To Kyungsoo, there is only Kim Jongin.
Intermission comes too fast. Kyungsoo doesn’t even know it’s coming. The story is lost on him - he’s not really sure what’s happening with any of the characters, but that’s all right. He’ll ask Baekhyun later. Maybe. If he cares enough to.
Baekhyun has to pull the younger boy out of his chair and into the lobby. They don’t really say anything but just walk around and look. Everyone looks so pretty, alive, happy. This is one reason Kyungsoo loves the ballet - most days Kyungsoo is nobody really, but when he comes here, he can pretend he’s important - something more than what he really is.
“Are you enjoying yourself?” Baekhyun asks with such a wide smirk that it makes Kyungsoo blush. “I was listening to your show today. I know why you really wanted to come here.”
“What... what are you talking about?” Kyungsoo stutters out. “You know I love the ballet. Of course I was going to come.”
Baekhyun just continues to grin. “Whatever you say, Kyungsoo-yah.”
They’ve walked around the whole lobby when there’s a small voice behind Kyungsoo saying, “Um, are you Do Kyungsoo?”
Kyungsoo turns around and nods. “I am. Do I know you?”
The other breaks into a smile and nods his head. “I’m Luhan. I’m so happy to see that you came!”
“Luhan?” Kyungsoo’s eyes grow wider. “Oh wow. It’s nice to meet you.” Kyungsoo isn’t sure what he expected from the other boy, but he is so pretty. His hair is light and hangs just slightly in front of his dark eyes. His skin is light, smooth, clear, and he smiles the prettiest smile.
“It’s nice to meet you too. I feel like I’m meeting a celebrity.”
Kyungsoo puts his hands out in front of him, shaking them back and forth as he says, “Oh no, I’m not a celebrity. I’m nothing special. Just ask Baekhyun here - I’m really quite lame.”
Luhan laughs. “Is this true?” he asks the other boy.
But to Kyungsoo’s dismay, his hyung shakes his head. “No one is as special as Kyungsoo.”
Kyungsoo is blushing and has to look away, covering his face in his hand. He definitely doesn’t feel special - well, he does, but only in the sense that he’s the only one out of the three with his face as red as pepper paste.
“We should meet up after the performance. I normally go and eat ice cream with Jongin.”
“Oh,” Kyungsoo mutters. “I don’t want to keep you from your tradition.”
“I’m not saying that! I want you to come with. And your friend as well.”
“Really?” Kyungsoo tries, but he is sure the excitement is evident in his voice - if not by the huge smile across his face. “That would be great. I owe Baekhyun cake anyway so this is perfect.”
“Awesome! I’ll meet you out front later then. We should probably head in.” As Luhan says this, the lights flicker, signalling for them to come back inside. They wave and head to their respective seats, Kyungsoo’s head swimming, his stomach churning. He feels like he’s going crazy - but he kind of likes it.
The shop is small and quaint, with three small tables and the small ice cream bar. Baekhyun, naturally, orders ice cream cake and Kyungsoo settles on a cup of mint ice cream. Luhan, though, can’t make up his mind and asks to try almost all of the flavors, only to decide on vanilla and Jongin orders honey pecan.
They sit down, Baekhyun and Jongin next to Kyungsoo, Luhan across from him. Kyungsoo isn’t surprised that his attention is spent on Jongin - only, he’s nothing like what he had pictured. If he is honestly with himself, he had imagined someone more like Luhan - pretty and sweet. But Jongin is more rough; his hair is a mess, and he’s dripping with sweat. Then there’s this air about him, a sort of arrogance that Kyungsoo can’t get over.
Kyungsoo feels like the fifth wheel. Baekhyun is too preoccupied with his cake (it’s almost as bad as watching him make out with Chanyeol), and then Jongin and Luhan keep talking to each other. And maybe that’s what’s bothering Kyungsoo, really. They won’t stop talking - and all they seem to talk about is Jongin. How good he was. How talented he is. And yes, he was good and yes, he is talented, but Kyungsoo is annoyed by how vain he’s acting.
So, really, Kyungsoo is content with his mint ice cream. In all actuality, he’s happy because now he knows Kim Jongin and now he can forget the boy and his stupid “I like Do Kyungsoo.” Maybe they weren’t even the same Jongin. Maybe--
“Oh, you have some ice cream on your face,” Luhan says, pulling Kyungsoo back into reality.
“I’ve got it,” Jongin sings and reaches out, wiping the corner of Kyungsoo’s mouth with his thumb, which he then puts in his mouth. “Yum.”
Kyungsoo blushes and quickly looks away over at Baekhyun. He coughs and asks, “How is your cake?”
The older boy looks up, smiles, and gives a thumbs up as he continues to eat. Kyungsoo sighs. It was not a smart idea to buy him half a whole cake. But he said he would eat it all. Kyungsoo tries to take the boy’s fork and have a bite himself, but Baekhyun just glares at the younger boy and shakes his head.
“Oh wow, your friend is scary, Kyungsoo-sshi,” Luhan comments with a laugh.
“You don’t know the half of it,” he whispers in response. “He really is the worst when it comes to cake. I don’t know what it is. Any other kind of sweets and he doesn’t care. But give him cake and he’ll become a monster.”
“Yah!” Baekhyun calls, his mouth full of cake. Kyungsoo just smiles and finishes off the rest of his ice cream, making sure to not leave any traces on his face. He doesn’t want Jongin to have any excuses to touch his face.
“I feel really bad, but I’m going to have to leave first,” Luhan informs them twenty minutes later. “I have class in the morning and things to take care of before then. See you later!” The older boy waves at them all as he runs off. Kyungsoo is surprised that Jongin didn’t go with him, but is still sitting next to him.
It was bad being the fifth wheel, but this is worse. Kyungsoo feels like he should say something, but he doesn’t know what. Both him and Jongin have been done with their ice cream for awhile, but they’re waiting on Baekhyun who can’t seem to finish his cake. Why the boy that it was a good idea to get half of a cake just for himself, Kyungsoo does not know.
But Baekhyun is almost done when he calls out, “Kyungsoo-yah,” his voice shrill, whinny. “I don’t feel good.”
“Of course you don’t.” Kyungsoo sighs. “Idiot...” he mumbles. He’s not sure what to do. It’s a long walk for them back to theirs and Kyungsoo doesn’t want to get a cab. Then it dawns on him and he quickly pulls out his phone to call Chanyeol. “Hyung,” he whines into the phone when the other answers. He explains the situation and Chanyeol agrees to come and pick up the other boy and take him to his apartment, which is much closer.
“Should I run and get you some medicine?” Kyungsoo asks after informing Baekhyun of Chanyeol’s coming. The older boy shakes his head.
“I’ll be fine; thanks. Chanyeol will take care of me.”
Kyungsoo can’t help but laugh. Chanyeol has never been good at taking care of other people - he can barely take care of himself. But he knows that when it comes down to it, there is very little Chanyeol won’t do for Baekhyun. Murder is probably out of the question, but not necessarily.
“You’re welcome to head out,” Kyungsoo tells Jongin. “I’ll just stay here with Baekhyun until his boyfriend comes.”
“It’s all right. I’ll stay.”
Kyungsoo strains a smile and quickly turns his attention back to Baekhyun. He can’t tell if Jongin is trying to actually be nice or just trying to show off how nice he can be. Either way, it bothers him. He had hoped the other would leave, but instead he’s stuck with him, feeling awkward still. At least his attention is now on Baekhyun so he doesn’t feel so isolated.
Thankfully, it’s not long before Chanyeol is there. The first thing he does is laugh at Baekhyun. “Why would you try and eat all of that cake yourself? You are so stupid.”
“Yah!” Baekhyun responds, but he’s laughing as well, leaning his head against Chanyeol. The taller boy pulls him up and into his arms.
“You okay getting home on your own, Kyungsoo-yah?” Chanyeol asks as he runs his hands down Baekhyun’s hair, petting him.
Kyungsoo nods but is cut off as Jongin says, “I’ll make sure he gets home safely.”
“Oh!” Chanyeol sings. “I didn’t see you there. Um, hi. I’m Park Chanyeol. And you are?”
“Kim Jongin,” he replies, standing up so he can shake the other’s hand.
“Kim Jongin, eh?” Chanyeol smirks over at Kyungsoo who sighs in response. “It’s nice to meet you, but if you don’t mind, I would like to get my boyfriend home before he throws up on everything.” He smiles and then to Baekhyun says, “Let’s go, honey.”
Baekhyun nods and mutters, “Are you going to carry me?”
“Aish, who do you think I am - your personal chauffeur?” Baekhyun nods his head furiously. Chanyeol sighs and bending down, lets Baekhyun hop onto his back. “I’ll see you later, Kyungsoo-yah. It was nice meeting you, Jongin-sshi. Hopefully next time we meet it won’t be because my boyfriend is an idiot.”
Kyungsoo waves. “Let me know if he’s all right, Hyung!” he calls out and the older boy nods. Kyungsoo smiles as he watches the two, wondering how in the world he managed to have such weird friends. He turns around and is faced with Jongin, which wipes his smile away.
“Should we go?” Jongin suggests with a smile. Kyungsoo nods and tries to smile back, but it doesn’t quite work. So they head out - one smile, one half smile / half grimace. Kyungsoo sighs - this is going to be a long walk home.
Turns out Jongin lives close to Kyungsoo, just a few buildings away. His apartment is much nicer and he’s able to live on his own. Kyungsoo finds himself jealous of the younger boy. The boy is able to live his dreams - do what he’s always wanted to do. But Kyungsoo is just some voice on the radio - and not in the way he wishes.
It’s quiet at first and Kyungsoo hopes to keep it that way. Of course, none of Kyungsoo’s desires are working out and Jongin breaks that silence with a small, “I’m sorry,” which startles Kyungsoo. He turns his head and looks at the other boy, whose eyes are focused on the ground.
“Sorry? What for?”
Jongin stops walking, pivoting on his heel. “Everything. I feel like you might have the wrong impression of me. I normally don’t talk about myself so much; Luhan just really likes to after a performance. And I feel like it seemed I was ignoring you, but Luhan is just really attentive and, well, you see how sweet he is. It’s hard to ignore him.”
Kyungsoo nods, unsure how else to respond. He doesn’t know how to feel about the young boy now. It wasn’t like he was really mad at him before, just annoyed, and now he can understand it. Really, Kyungsoo is sure if he was in the same situation, he wouldn’t be able to ignore Luhan.
But he still says nothing and soon they are walking again. They’re close and reach Jongin’s complex ten silent minutes later. They stop in front and Kyungsoo is about to say goodbye, when he’s cut off by Jongin’s, “Did you want to come in? There’s something I would really like to show you.”
Kyungsoo gulps and is surprised when he finds himself nodding his head. Jongin smiles widely and they head inside. He lives on the third floor and they say nothing the ride up; the elevator music rings loud in Kyungsoo’s ears. He has no idea why he’s here, what he’s expecting. He wonders what Jongin wants to show him. If it’s his dick, I am leaving right away, Kyungsoo thinks and shakes his head.
His apartment is gorgeous. It’s small, but is furnished well. The couch Kyungsoo finds himself sitting on is plush, soft; he could easily curl up and fall asleep within a few minutes. Jongin is making them tea and Kyungsoo still doesn’t know what he’s doing here. He should drink the tea and then run out of there as fast as possible.
“How do you like your tea?” Jongin calls from the kitchen (which is what Kyungsoo is so jealous of; he wants a kitchen that nice to cook his meal in).
“Milk and too much sugar,” Kyungsoo replies. He doesn’t really like tea but if he can make it sweet enough, he’s happy with it. He hears Jongin laugh and Kyungsoo shakes his head more and more. He’s not sure what it is he is feeling, but he does not like it one bit.
Jongin brings the tea in a minute later. It’s warm and feels good in Kyungsoo’s hands. It doesn’t taste too bad either, sweet enough that he can enjoy it. “Thanks,” he adds a minute later. “For the tea that is.”
“No problem!” Jongin smiles wide and Kyungsoo is so confused. Because this smile - this smile is what is shaking Kyungsoo’s heart just a little bit. It’s bright, warm, and Kyungsoo feels it taking over his heart. But Kyungsoo still doesn’t totally like the other boy. He confuses him - everything about him seems to be a contradiction to something else.
“What were you wanting to show me?” Kyungsoo asks once he’s finished his tea, placing the cup on the saucer in front of him (because Jongin has a proper tea set - made of fancy china (which only confuses Kyungsoo more because this boy’s face is not one you’d expect to have proper tea parties)).
“Oh, right,” Jongin sings, jumping up. “Come with me!” He holds his hand out and Kyungsoo takes it, being pulled up off the couch. He’s led into the bedroom and Jongin whispers, “Close your eyes,” as they step into the room.
Oh god, Kyungsoo thinks, here comes the penis. When Jongin tells Kyungsoo to open his eyes, he’s surprised to find Jongin fully clothed (and about 90% happy about it). Jongin runs his hand on the back of his neck and looks down.
“Um, this might be kind of weird, but I just really wanted to show you my room and my music collection and wow, sorry, I’m so weird. I just thought you might like it.”
Kyungsoo breaks into a smile. “Music collection?”
“Are you sure about this?” Kyungsoo asks, his voice hesitant. He feels like this isn’t something he should do. He doesn’t know Jongin that well and he’s worried that something will go wrong and he’ll ruin what little of a relationship they already have.
“Of course!” Jongin beams. “Take as many as you want. They’ll be awesome on your show.”
Kyungsoo is smiling wider than ever before as he grabs hold of another record. “I’ve never known anyone with so much music. I think I’m in love.”
“In love?” Jongin chokes out.
Kyungsoo nods. “I am so in love music.” He laughs. “Aren’t you too?”
Jongin smirks. “I definitely am in love.”
“You should sing me something.” They’re back in the living room, Kyungsoo sinking into the couch. He looks over at Jongin and quickly shakes his head. He can’t sing. Not here. Not now. He’s still embarrassed to think that the boy has already heard him sing - that anyone has. He’s always kept his voice tucked away, hidden, as something his alone.
“You really should,” Jongin whispers, leaning his head closer to Kyungsoo’s. “I love your voice.”
Kyungsoo blushes, unsure of what he should do. He thinks, if I’m going to sing, what would I sing? And nothing comes to mind. But there’s a part of him that wants to sing - he wants Jongin to hear him. He wants this boy to know him in a way Kyungsoo has never let anyone else before.
So he opens his mouth and sings. He doesn’t know what he’s saying, but justs lets the words and the notes flow, sweet, strong, doing everything he can to keep his voice from breaking. He sings, his eyes on the ground, afraid to see Jongin’s reaction.
When he’s done, he continues to look down, waiting for some kind of reaction from Jongin. Even though he knows the boy likes his voice, he can’t help but fear some kind of rejection.
But instead he hears Jongin whisper, “Wow,” so soft that Kyungsoo almost doesn’t hear it at all. He whispers it again and continues, the word over and over and Kyungsoo is blushing and grinning and his stomach is doing both front and back flips at the same time.
He looks up and his eyes catch Jongin’s. “You really are something else,” Jongin marvels. He reaches out and touches the side of his face lightly. “Something magical.”
Kyungsoo definitely hadn’t planned on falling asleep next to Jongin. Nope. He is supposed to be at home, enjoying his night of freedom from Baekhyun. Instead here he is, waking up next to a sleeping Jongin. He tries to remember what happened that got him here - why it is he’s not home.
Then he remembers. After they had made their way back into his bedroom, Jongin went back into the other room to get something else to show him and Kyungsoo lied down on his bed, thinking he’d just rest his head until Jongin came back. He must have fallen asleep. He’s not sure why or when Jongin joined or why they’re so close on the bed - or why Kyungsoo feels so light and safe next to the boy.
Kyungsoo sighs and checks his watch. It’s three in the morning - probably just enough time to sneak out of the house, make it to his, and be ready for his show at five. Now all Kyungsoo has to do is find a way to move Jongin’s arm off his chest without the other waking up.
This proves harder than expected and soon Jongin is stirring next to the other boy. Kyungsoo freezes, hoping that Jongin will fall back asleep and fail to notice him. He waits a few minutes before trying to lift the boy’s arm again. But Jongin reacts again, this time pressing his arm even tighter around Kyungsoo’s chest. “Are you trying to leave?” he whispers, his breath hot as it tickles the back of Kyungsoo’s neck.
“I have the show to do,” Kyungsoo breathes out. His chest is tight and his head screaming as Jongin is suddenly pulling him closer.
“Do you have to?”
“How else am I going to play the music you just gave me.”
“I didn’t give you anything; I’m just letting you borrow. You know that means you’ll have to come meet me and give it back.”
“I guess so.” Kyungsoo grins. “You still need to let me leave, though,” he adds, nodding his head towards the arm that’s still tightly wrapped around him.
“Oh. Right.” Jongin laughs and removes himself from his place atop Kyungsoo.
Kyungsoo pulls himself out of the bed. He runs across the room, picking up all the records he is going to borrow - which someone had managed to become spread across the room while he had been looking at them. “Here,” Jongin calls and Kyungsoo looks up to see Jongin standing there, holding a bag out for him.
“Thanks.” He carefully places all the records into the bag and checks around the room to make sure he’s not forgetting anything. He doesn’t see anything else, so grabbing the bag, he begins to make his way to the front door.
His shoes are on and he’s ready to go before he notices that Jongin is there, too, putting his shoes on as well. Kyungsoo looks over, confused, and Jongin laughs. “Remember - I told Chanyeol I’d take you home. I can’t let you make your way their all on your own.”
Kyungsoo smiles wide. They head out and Kyungsoo is glad it’s not too far of a walk. He’s trying to plan out his show - he normally does the night before, but that obviously hadn’t worked out. With the new records, there’s a lot he can play and he’s so excited.
He debates if he wants to talk about Jongin at all. Not him specifically, but more about the ballet - it really was a great performance and, while Kyungsoo really only noticed Jongin the whole time, Kyungsoo is sure that the whole show was very good.
When they arrive, Kyungsoo is hesitant to go back inside. He knows he has things to do, but he’s found himself wanting to just stay here, in the dark, with Jongin. There’s one street light near them and it shines down on Jongin. He looks like angel, Kyungsoo thinks and smiles to himself.
Kyungsoo turns to the younger boy and asks, “Why did you walk me home? I mean, I know what you said about Chanyeol, but you didn’t have to agree in the first place. And why did you invite me up to your house and let me borrow your music and...” Kyungsoo takes a second, breathing. “And why did you put your arm around me and not want me to go?”
Jongin chuckles. “I already told you.” He steps forward, closing the gap that’s between them. “I like Do Kyungsoo.” And then Jongin kisses the top of his forehead and steps back, a grin wide across his face. “I’ll go first. See you later, Hyung!”
Kyungsoo stands, frozen, as he watches Jongin run off back towards his building. He reaches up and feels the mark of Jongin on his skin. He hears the boy’s words echo in his head over and over - I like Do Kyungsoo. I like Do Kyungsoo. I like Do Kyungsoo.
And Kyungsoo looks up and sees the sun starting to rise as he mutters to himself, “And I like Kim Jongin,” before he runs inside.
Rating: PG-13
Word Count: 6,079
Summay: When Luhan calls into Kyungsoo's radio show and tells him of a dancer named Kim Jongin, he can't seem to get the boy out of his mind. Meeting him only makes it worse.
Author's Note: I wrote this for my friend's birthday. She wanted kaisoo fluff so I hope I'm delivering.
While Kim Jongin has never felt out of place, Do Kyungsoo always has. It’s not so much that Kyungsoo was ever bullied growing up or that he lacked friends. Kyungsoo had great friends, especially his best friend Byun Baekhyun who lived next door (although he basically lived at Kyungsoo’s more than half the time). Kyungsoo can’t quite place what it is - what he feels has kept him separated from those around him - not by much, just slivers, moments, small thoughts and feelings, seconds here and there where Kyungsoo feels so alone he can’t breathe.
He doesn’t mind, though, at least not most of the time. Because he does have great friends. Baekhyun’s boyfriend, a silly boy named Park Chanyeol, is always joking around with Kyungsoo and he gives the world’s best hugs. So yeah. Kyungsoo is happy enough. Most of the time.
Except, you know, when he isn’t.
But Kyungsoo makes it through those days all right, too. His job is nice, running a small radio show at five in the morning. Almost no one listens and while he’s open for calls the whole two hours, he only gets a few (some of which have been complaints that his voice is too sweet and people who were using the show as an alarm fell back asleep to the sound of his voice).
And that’s when he first hears of Kim Jongin. It’s a Thursday. Thursdays are his favourite - not only his Friday around the corner, but more people call on Thursday than any other day. (Of course, half of the calls are from Baekhyun or Chanyeol or Minseok, but they still count for something.)
This number, though, isn’t one he recognizes. He doesn’t totally rule out his friends, though, especially Minseok who is often waking up in strange places. He smiles as he answers it with a bright, “Hello, this is Do Kyungsoo here at Smile Sunshine!”
“Um hi,” the voice says; it’s shaky, accented, and it makes Kyungsoo grin. “This is kind of random, but have you heard of Kim Jongin at all?”
Kyungsoo pauses and then replies, “I don’t think so. Who is he?”
Kyungsoo can hear the smile in his voice as he says, “He’s a new dancer that’s getting pretty big. I know that you like art and music and all things related so I thought you might know him and enjoy him if you haven’t.”
“Really? Wow, thank you for thinking of me,” the host gushes, blushing. Kyungsoo is always amazed when people remember him. There is nothing sweeter in his mind that having something remind someone of him. He likes being thought about and likes mattering to people.
“Of course!” the other sings, his voice so sweet. “I wake up early just to listen to your show... Oh wow. That sounds so weird.”
“Honestly?” Kyungsoo asks. “I was sure the only people that listened were those getting back from late nights of drinking and those waking up early for work. I’m so happy to know someone actually wants to listen to me.”
“Of course!” he sings again with a laugh. “I was always so scared to call in, but I’m really happy I did. You’re really nice, Kyungsoo-sshi.”
“You’re the nice one. I’m the one that forgot to ask your name when we started talking!” Kyungsoo adds with a laugh of his own. “Sorry. What was your name?”
“Luhan.”
“That’s sweet,” Kyungsoo sings, his voice light as air, sweet as sugar. “Oh! I just noticed I have another call. It was great talking to you, Luhan. Take care!” Kyungsoo switches calls and says again in his bright voice, “Hey, this is Do Kyungsoo here on Smile Sunshine!”
“Kyungsoo-ah, did you remember to turn off the oven when you left this morning?”
It’s Baekhyun, of course. Who else would it be? Eyes wide, Kyungsoo replies, “Did I? I don’t even remember turning it on.”
It’s quite for a second before Baek laughs, loud, and Kyungsoo can hear another voice as well - probably Chanyeol’s. “Sorry, it was Chanyeol’s idea. He thought it would be really funny,” he struggles to say between laughs. Kyungsoo shakes his head and sighs.
“As I just learned, I have listeners that actually care about this show, so I’m going to hang up on you now. See you at home, Hyung.” Kyungsoo sighs again as he hangs up the call. “Sorry about the guys. Don’t ever roommate with your best friend. It’s a bad idea; I promise. Anyway, here’s a song by J Rabbit - Falling in Love.”
Kyungsoo plays the song, falling into the music, humming along. He’s almost done for the day - probably a few more songs, maybe another phone call if he’s lucky. Sometimes he gets calls asking about the weather, how cold it was when he woke up, what kind of clothes they should wear that day. It’s stupid, but Kyungsoo loves talking to people about it. He just loves to talk to people about anything, really.
It’s stupid, but Kyungsoo likes the thought - that fact - that for some people, he’s the first thing they hear when they wake up. Like he’s the morning breaking, the sun rising. Kyungsoo doesn’t know where these thoughts are coming from, but he’s lost in them as the song continues to play out - so lost that he doesn’t notice the song has ended for just over thirty seconds.
Laughing, Kyungsoo comments, “Sorry! I got really lost in that song. I thought we would mix it up - there’s a song by S.E.S.” Kyungsoo plays the song and is determined to not get lost, so he sings along, softly, almost mumbling. When the chorus comes, though, he can’t help himself and belts out the words. But like an idiot, Kyungsoo forgot to turn his mic off and his voice is heard by everyone listening.
When he notices, he throws out a million apologies. Thankfully his show is almost over - one more song, tops, but he notices he has a call and decides to answer that as well, with the best “Hi, this is Do Kyungsoo and you are on Smile Sunshine!” as he can.
“You have a great voice,” is what he hears on the other line. Kyungsoo’s eyes widen and his face flushes. “I just wanted to tell you. You should be performing.”
And Kyungsoo wants to say something amazing - something sweet and smart and caring but he can’t think of anything. Compliments are hard; compliments are foreign. So he settles on a very weak, “Wow, thank you,” that’s almost inaudible. “I feel so special today...” he adds seconds later.
“You are.”
“And who are you? Er, I mean, what’s your name?”
“My name is Kim Jongin.” There is silence for just a small second before he says, “And I like Do Kyungsoo.”
Kyungsoo’s head is reeling when he heads home. The sun is shining but still not very high in the sky. The wind is light and blows against his skin, messing with his hair. Kyungsoo feels light enough to be carried by the wind - but to where?
Anywhere, Kyungsoo decides, and gives himself to the wind. But it doesn’t take him anywhere, he is still grounded, his feet firmly planted on the ground. And that’s where Kyungsoo belongs and he knows it. He can’t really imagine any other life than the one he has now.
It doesn’t stop him from dreaming, though. His dreams start as they always do - with him singing. This time, it’s the song he’s been working on lately. It’s still messy, with hanging words and shifty harmonies. But Kyungsoo is happy in ways he normally isn’t. He always is when he sings.
The dream changes soon and he is no longer alone. There is just one person in front of him and although Kyungsoo has never seen him before, he knows who it is. Kim Jongin. He’s a blur, no distinguishing features. But Kyungsoo feels that it’s him - this boy he doesn’t know but apparent knows him and apparently he should know him as well. He hears the boy’s words ring in his head again and again. I like Do Kyungsoo. I like Do Kyungsoo. I like Do Kyungsoo.
His dream carries him home. He feels like he is walking on clouds as he steps inside. Baekhyun is the first thing he sees. “Bye Kyungsoo-yah,” he calls stepping outside. “Feel free to kick out Chanyeol whenever you want.” Kyungsoo nods and waves. Chanyeol spends more nights here than he does at his own place.
And there he is - on the couch, watching TV. He uses the TV more than anyone else either. It’s okay, though, and Kyungsoo falls down next to him, putting his head on the taller boy’s chest. The other smiles, putting his arm around him. “Good show?”
Kyungsoo nods. “It was really good. Except you guys are idiots.”
“I know.”
The younger boy sighs. He tries to focus on the TV; it’s the news and Kyungsoo at least likes to pretend he knows what’s going on in the world. But instead he falls asleep atop Chanyeol. And he dreams more of singing and a pretty boy who dances along.
Days later, Kyungsoo has almost forgotten Kim Jongin. He can’t completely forget him, of course, his words still burnt into the back of his mind, occasionally making him smile broadly out of nowhere. But there wasn’t much to think about. He had googled the boy, but all he saw were blurry pictures of him dancing - all of which looked amazing, but it really gave him no idea of who the boy was.
So he filled his thoughts with other things. Minseok and him went out on Friday night to a movie. On Saturday Kyungsoo cleaned the house and then went to a club with Baekhyun and Chanyeol - which wasn’t bad, but being a third wheel isn’t exactly the most enjoyable thing (especially because wow they make out way too much).
There was nothing else of note. And it’s Tuesday and Kyungsoo is half way through his show. No one has called and his music selection has been very sporadic. Currently it’s a song by One Direction. Kyungsoo is unsure why he chose this song, but it’s playing and he feels a little ridiculous.
When it’s done, Kyungsoo apologizes for the song choice. “Next we’ll play something a bit more topical. So here is Henry Lau with... Oh wait. It appears I have a call!” Kyungsoo is beaming now and answers the call with his normal introduction.
“Hi Kyungsoo-sshi. It’s Luhan. I called last week.”
“Oh! It’s so nice to hear from you. I hope you have been well.”
“I have been, thank you. I was just wondering if you got a chance to see Jongin dance.”
“No, I haven’t,” Kyungsoo admits as he hears the voice in his head again - I like Do Kyungsoo; I like Do Kyungsoo. “You never told me where to go to see him dance.”
“Right!” Luhan says, grinning. “Stupid me. I actually think he’s performing tonight. You should go. He’s going to be at the National Theater of Korea.”
“He is?” Kyungsoo asks, a bit surprised. “But it’s the ballet tonight, right?”
“Yep!”
“Oh, okay.” Kyungsoo isn’t sure why he’s so surprised - he had no idea what kind of dance this Kim Jongin did - Luhan never said and he definitely didn’t when he called in. It’s his voice, Kyungsoo decides on. It was so rich and smooth and wow ballet was the last thing that to cross his mind.
“I’ll be there tonight. I hope to see you!” A second later, Luhan adds, “And I liked the One Direction. It was a fun surprise.” Kyungsoo blushes and grins and he is so glad that no one can see his face.
“Thanks for calling again, Luhan. As I’m sure you all know, my phone is open for calls and I know it’s early, but I’m a great person to talk to while you ready yourself for work.” Kyungsoo chuckles and then says, “Now I’ll go ahead and play Henry’s 1-4-3.”
As far as he could remember, Kyungsoo never mentioned on his show how much he loved ballet. He can’t think of any reason Luhan would have known this. He was planning on going to the ballet later this week, but tonight is as good as any. He was able to drag Baekhyun with him with the promise of cake.
They settle into their seats, all dressed up. Kyungsoo, who often frequents these things, has a nice suit on. Baekhyun has a blazer with the nicest black jeans he owns and one of Kyungsoo’s ties. Their seats aren’t great, but they can see the whole stage, which is good enough for Kyungsoo. He’s too poor to afford great seats.
It starts not too long after they’ve settled in. It’s a story Kyungsoo hasn’t heard before about a ghost who falls in love with a human. The human is played by a Kim Jongin. He doesn’t show up for the first twenty minutes and Kyungsoo finds himself growing anxious. He wants to see this boy - this boy he feels such a deep connection to for no real reason.
And when he sees Kim Jongin, Kyungsoo loses all thoughts. There is nothing in his head but the boy’s dancing. He is the definition of graceful, his limbs flowing, moving in such rhythm and with such precision. It entrances the young Kyungsoo. He is lost in everything the other does. His eyes don’t leave him - he doesn’t see anyone else, not the ghost, not any of the other dancers. To Kyungsoo, there is only Kim Jongin.
Intermission comes too fast. Kyungsoo doesn’t even know it’s coming. The story is lost on him - he’s not really sure what’s happening with any of the characters, but that’s all right. He’ll ask Baekhyun later. Maybe. If he cares enough to.
Baekhyun has to pull the younger boy out of his chair and into the lobby. They don’t really say anything but just walk around and look. Everyone looks so pretty, alive, happy. This is one reason Kyungsoo loves the ballet - most days Kyungsoo is nobody really, but when he comes here, he can pretend he’s important - something more than what he really is.
“Are you enjoying yourself?” Baekhyun asks with such a wide smirk that it makes Kyungsoo blush. “I was listening to your show today. I know why you really wanted to come here.”
“What... what are you talking about?” Kyungsoo stutters out. “You know I love the ballet. Of course I was going to come.”
Baekhyun just continues to grin. “Whatever you say, Kyungsoo-yah.”
They’ve walked around the whole lobby when there’s a small voice behind Kyungsoo saying, “Um, are you Do Kyungsoo?”
Kyungsoo turns around and nods. “I am. Do I know you?”
The other breaks into a smile and nods his head. “I’m Luhan. I’m so happy to see that you came!”
“Luhan?” Kyungsoo’s eyes grow wider. “Oh wow. It’s nice to meet you.” Kyungsoo isn’t sure what he expected from the other boy, but he is so pretty. His hair is light and hangs just slightly in front of his dark eyes. His skin is light, smooth, clear, and he smiles the prettiest smile.
“It’s nice to meet you too. I feel like I’m meeting a celebrity.”
Kyungsoo puts his hands out in front of him, shaking them back and forth as he says, “Oh no, I’m not a celebrity. I’m nothing special. Just ask Baekhyun here - I’m really quite lame.”
Luhan laughs. “Is this true?” he asks the other boy.
But to Kyungsoo’s dismay, his hyung shakes his head. “No one is as special as Kyungsoo.”
Kyungsoo is blushing and has to look away, covering his face in his hand. He definitely doesn’t feel special - well, he does, but only in the sense that he’s the only one out of the three with his face as red as pepper paste.
“We should meet up after the performance. I normally go and eat ice cream with Jongin.”
“Oh,” Kyungsoo mutters. “I don’t want to keep you from your tradition.”
“I’m not saying that! I want you to come with. And your friend as well.”
“Really?” Kyungsoo tries, but he is sure the excitement is evident in his voice - if not by the huge smile across his face. “That would be great. I owe Baekhyun cake anyway so this is perfect.”
“Awesome! I’ll meet you out front later then. We should probably head in.” As Luhan says this, the lights flicker, signalling for them to come back inside. They wave and head to their respective seats, Kyungsoo’s head swimming, his stomach churning. He feels like he’s going crazy - but he kind of likes it.
The shop is small and quaint, with three small tables and the small ice cream bar. Baekhyun, naturally, orders ice cream cake and Kyungsoo settles on a cup of mint ice cream. Luhan, though, can’t make up his mind and asks to try almost all of the flavors, only to decide on vanilla and Jongin orders honey pecan.
They sit down, Baekhyun and Jongin next to Kyungsoo, Luhan across from him. Kyungsoo isn’t surprised that his attention is spent on Jongin - only, he’s nothing like what he had pictured. If he is honestly with himself, he had imagined someone more like Luhan - pretty and sweet. But Jongin is more rough; his hair is a mess, and he’s dripping with sweat. Then there’s this air about him, a sort of arrogance that Kyungsoo can’t get over.
Kyungsoo feels like the fifth wheel. Baekhyun is too preoccupied with his cake (it’s almost as bad as watching him make out with Chanyeol), and then Jongin and Luhan keep talking to each other. And maybe that’s what’s bothering Kyungsoo, really. They won’t stop talking - and all they seem to talk about is Jongin. How good he was. How talented he is. And yes, he was good and yes, he is talented, but Kyungsoo is annoyed by how vain he’s acting.
So, really, Kyungsoo is content with his mint ice cream. In all actuality, he’s happy because now he knows Kim Jongin and now he can forget the boy and his stupid “I like Do Kyungsoo.” Maybe they weren’t even the same Jongin. Maybe--
“Oh, you have some ice cream on your face,” Luhan says, pulling Kyungsoo back into reality.
“I’ve got it,” Jongin sings and reaches out, wiping the corner of Kyungsoo’s mouth with his thumb, which he then puts in his mouth. “Yum.”
Kyungsoo blushes and quickly looks away over at Baekhyun. He coughs and asks, “How is your cake?”
The older boy looks up, smiles, and gives a thumbs up as he continues to eat. Kyungsoo sighs. It was not a smart idea to buy him half a whole cake. But he said he would eat it all. Kyungsoo tries to take the boy’s fork and have a bite himself, but Baekhyun just glares at the younger boy and shakes his head.
“Oh wow, your friend is scary, Kyungsoo-sshi,” Luhan comments with a laugh.
“You don’t know the half of it,” he whispers in response. “He really is the worst when it comes to cake. I don’t know what it is. Any other kind of sweets and he doesn’t care. But give him cake and he’ll become a monster.”
“Yah!” Baekhyun calls, his mouth full of cake. Kyungsoo just smiles and finishes off the rest of his ice cream, making sure to not leave any traces on his face. He doesn’t want Jongin to have any excuses to touch his face.
“I feel really bad, but I’m going to have to leave first,” Luhan informs them twenty minutes later. “I have class in the morning and things to take care of before then. See you later!” The older boy waves at them all as he runs off. Kyungsoo is surprised that Jongin didn’t go with him, but is still sitting next to him.
It was bad being the fifth wheel, but this is worse. Kyungsoo feels like he should say something, but he doesn’t know what. Both him and Jongin have been done with their ice cream for awhile, but they’re waiting on Baekhyun who can’t seem to finish his cake. Why the boy that it was a good idea to get half of a cake just for himself, Kyungsoo does not know.
But Baekhyun is almost done when he calls out, “Kyungsoo-yah,” his voice shrill, whinny. “I don’t feel good.”
“Of course you don’t.” Kyungsoo sighs. “Idiot...” he mumbles. He’s not sure what to do. It’s a long walk for them back to theirs and Kyungsoo doesn’t want to get a cab. Then it dawns on him and he quickly pulls out his phone to call Chanyeol. “Hyung,” he whines into the phone when the other answers. He explains the situation and Chanyeol agrees to come and pick up the other boy and take him to his apartment, which is much closer.
“Should I run and get you some medicine?” Kyungsoo asks after informing Baekhyun of Chanyeol’s coming. The older boy shakes his head.
“I’ll be fine; thanks. Chanyeol will take care of me.”
Kyungsoo can’t help but laugh. Chanyeol has never been good at taking care of other people - he can barely take care of himself. But he knows that when it comes down to it, there is very little Chanyeol won’t do for Baekhyun. Murder is probably out of the question, but not necessarily.
“You’re welcome to head out,” Kyungsoo tells Jongin. “I’ll just stay here with Baekhyun until his boyfriend comes.”
“It’s all right. I’ll stay.”
Kyungsoo strains a smile and quickly turns his attention back to Baekhyun. He can’t tell if Jongin is trying to actually be nice or just trying to show off how nice he can be. Either way, it bothers him. He had hoped the other would leave, but instead he’s stuck with him, feeling awkward still. At least his attention is now on Baekhyun so he doesn’t feel so isolated.
Thankfully, it’s not long before Chanyeol is there. The first thing he does is laugh at Baekhyun. “Why would you try and eat all of that cake yourself? You are so stupid.”
“Yah!” Baekhyun responds, but he’s laughing as well, leaning his head against Chanyeol. The taller boy pulls him up and into his arms.
“You okay getting home on your own, Kyungsoo-yah?” Chanyeol asks as he runs his hands down Baekhyun’s hair, petting him.
Kyungsoo nods but is cut off as Jongin says, “I’ll make sure he gets home safely.”
“Oh!” Chanyeol sings. “I didn’t see you there. Um, hi. I’m Park Chanyeol. And you are?”
“Kim Jongin,” he replies, standing up so he can shake the other’s hand.
“Kim Jongin, eh?” Chanyeol smirks over at Kyungsoo who sighs in response. “It’s nice to meet you, but if you don’t mind, I would like to get my boyfriend home before he throws up on everything.” He smiles and then to Baekhyun says, “Let’s go, honey.”
Baekhyun nods and mutters, “Are you going to carry me?”
“Aish, who do you think I am - your personal chauffeur?” Baekhyun nods his head furiously. Chanyeol sighs and bending down, lets Baekhyun hop onto his back. “I’ll see you later, Kyungsoo-yah. It was nice meeting you, Jongin-sshi. Hopefully next time we meet it won’t be because my boyfriend is an idiot.”
Kyungsoo waves. “Let me know if he’s all right, Hyung!” he calls out and the older boy nods. Kyungsoo smiles as he watches the two, wondering how in the world he managed to have such weird friends. He turns around and is faced with Jongin, which wipes his smile away.
“Should we go?” Jongin suggests with a smile. Kyungsoo nods and tries to smile back, but it doesn’t quite work. So they head out - one smile, one half smile / half grimace. Kyungsoo sighs - this is going to be a long walk home.
Turns out Jongin lives close to Kyungsoo, just a few buildings away. His apartment is much nicer and he’s able to live on his own. Kyungsoo finds himself jealous of the younger boy. The boy is able to live his dreams - do what he’s always wanted to do. But Kyungsoo is just some voice on the radio - and not in the way he wishes.
It’s quiet at first and Kyungsoo hopes to keep it that way. Of course, none of Kyungsoo’s desires are working out and Jongin breaks that silence with a small, “I’m sorry,” which startles Kyungsoo. He turns his head and looks at the other boy, whose eyes are focused on the ground.
“Sorry? What for?”
Jongin stops walking, pivoting on his heel. “Everything. I feel like you might have the wrong impression of me. I normally don’t talk about myself so much; Luhan just really likes to after a performance. And I feel like it seemed I was ignoring you, but Luhan is just really attentive and, well, you see how sweet he is. It’s hard to ignore him.”
Kyungsoo nods, unsure how else to respond. He doesn’t know how to feel about the young boy now. It wasn’t like he was really mad at him before, just annoyed, and now he can understand it. Really, Kyungsoo is sure if he was in the same situation, he wouldn’t be able to ignore Luhan.
But he still says nothing and soon they are walking again. They’re close and reach Jongin’s complex ten silent minutes later. They stop in front and Kyungsoo is about to say goodbye, when he’s cut off by Jongin’s, “Did you want to come in? There’s something I would really like to show you.”
Kyungsoo gulps and is surprised when he finds himself nodding his head. Jongin smiles widely and they head inside. He lives on the third floor and they say nothing the ride up; the elevator music rings loud in Kyungsoo’s ears. He has no idea why he’s here, what he’s expecting. He wonders what Jongin wants to show him. If it’s his dick, I am leaving right away, Kyungsoo thinks and shakes his head.
His apartment is gorgeous. It’s small, but is furnished well. The couch Kyungsoo finds himself sitting on is plush, soft; he could easily curl up and fall asleep within a few minutes. Jongin is making them tea and Kyungsoo still doesn’t know what he’s doing here. He should drink the tea and then run out of there as fast as possible.
“How do you like your tea?” Jongin calls from the kitchen (which is what Kyungsoo is so jealous of; he wants a kitchen that nice to cook his meal in).
“Milk and too much sugar,” Kyungsoo replies. He doesn’t really like tea but if he can make it sweet enough, he’s happy with it. He hears Jongin laugh and Kyungsoo shakes his head more and more. He’s not sure what it is he is feeling, but he does not like it one bit.
Jongin brings the tea in a minute later. It’s warm and feels good in Kyungsoo’s hands. It doesn’t taste too bad either, sweet enough that he can enjoy it. “Thanks,” he adds a minute later. “For the tea that is.”
“No problem!” Jongin smiles wide and Kyungsoo is so confused. Because this smile - this smile is what is shaking Kyungsoo’s heart just a little bit. It’s bright, warm, and Kyungsoo feels it taking over his heart. But Kyungsoo still doesn’t totally like the other boy. He confuses him - everything about him seems to be a contradiction to something else.
“What were you wanting to show me?” Kyungsoo asks once he’s finished his tea, placing the cup on the saucer in front of him (because Jongin has a proper tea set - made of fancy china (which only confuses Kyungsoo more because this boy’s face is not one you’d expect to have proper tea parties)).
“Oh, right,” Jongin sings, jumping up. “Come with me!” He holds his hand out and Kyungsoo takes it, being pulled up off the couch. He’s led into the bedroom and Jongin whispers, “Close your eyes,” as they step into the room.
Oh god, Kyungsoo thinks, here comes the penis. When Jongin tells Kyungsoo to open his eyes, he’s surprised to find Jongin fully clothed (and about 90% happy about it). Jongin runs his hand on the back of his neck and looks down.
“Um, this might be kind of weird, but I just really wanted to show you my room and my music collection and wow, sorry, I’m so weird. I just thought you might like it.”
Kyungsoo breaks into a smile. “Music collection?”
“Are you sure about this?” Kyungsoo asks, his voice hesitant. He feels like this isn’t something he should do. He doesn’t know Jongin that well and he’s worried that something will go wrong and he’ll ruin what little of a relationship they already have.
“Of course!” Jongin beams. “Take as many as you want. They’ll be awesome on your show.”
Kyungsoo is smiling wider than ever before as he grabs hold of another record. “I’ve never known anyone with so much music. I think I’m in love.”
“In love?” Jongin chokes out.
Kyungsoo nods. “I am so in love music.” He laughs. “Aren’t you too?”
Jongin smirks. “I definitely am in love.”
“You should sing me something.” They’re back in the living room, Kyungsoo sinking into the couch. He looks over at Jongin and quickly shakes his head. He can’t sing. Not here. Not now. He’s still embarrassed to think that the boy has already heard him sing - that anyone has. He’s always kept his voice tucked away, hidden, as something his alone.
“You really should,” Jongin whispers, leaning his head closer to Kyungsoo’s. “I love your voice.”
Kyungsoo blushes, unsure of what he should do. He thinks, if I’m going to sing, what would I sing? And nothing comes to mind. But there’s a part of him that wants to sing - he wants Jongin to hear him. He wants this boy to know him in a way Kyungsoo has never let anyone else before.
So he opens his mouth and sings. He doesn’t know what he’s saying, but justs lets the words and the notes flow, sweet, strong, doing everything he can to keep his voice from breaking. He sings, his eyes on the ground, afraid to see Jongin’s reaction.
When he’s done, he continues to look down, waiting for some kind of reaction from Jongin. Even though he knows the boy likes his voice, he can’t help but fear some kind of rejection.
But instead he hears Jongin whisper, “Wow,” so soft that Kyungsoo almost doesn’t hear it at all. He whispers it again and continues, the word over and over and Kyungsoo is blushing and grinning and his stomach is doing both front and back flips at the same time.
He looks up and his eyes catch Jongin’s. “You really are something else,” Jongin marvels. He reaches out and touches the side of his face lightly. “Something magical.”
Kyungsoo definitely hadn’t planned on falling asleep next to Jongin. Nope. He is supposed to be at home, enjoying his night of freedom from Baekhyun. Instead here he is, waking up next to a sleeping Jongin. He tries to remember what happened that got him here - why it is he’s not home.
Then he remembers. After they had made their way back into his bedroom, Jongin went back into the other room to get something else to show him and Kyungsoo lied down on his bed, thinking he’d just rest his head until Jongin came back. He must have fallen asleep. He’s not sure why or when Jongin joined or why they’re so close on the bed - or why Kyungsoo feels so light and safe next to the boy.
Kyungsoo sighs and checks his watch. It’s three in the morning - probably just enough time to sneak out of the house, make it to his, and be ready for his show at five. Now all Kyungsoo has to do is find a way to move Jongin’s arm off his chest without the other waking up.
This proves harder than expected and soon Jongin is stirring next to the other boy. Kyungsoo freezes, hoping that Jongin will fall back asleep and fail to notice him. He waits a few minutes before trying to lift the boy’s arm again. But Jongin reacts again, this time pressing his arm even tighter around Kyungsoo’s chest. “Are you trying to leave?” he whispers, his breath hot as it tickles the back of Kyungsoo’s neck.
“I have the show to do,” Kyungsoo breathes out. His chest is tight and his head screaming as Jongin is suddenly pulling him closer.
“Do you have to?”
“How else am I going to play the music you just gave me.”
“I didn’t give you anything; I’m just letting you borrow. You know that means you’ll have to come meet me and give it back.”
“I guess so.” Kyungsoo grins. “You still need to let me leave, though,” he adds, nodding his head towards the arm that’s still tightly wrapped around him.
“Oh. Right.” Jongin laughs and removes himself from his place atop Kyungsoo.
Kyungsoo pulls himself out of the bed. He runs across the room, picking up all the records he is going to borrow - which someone had managed to become spread across the room while he had been looking at them. “Here,” Jongin calls and Kyungsoo looks up to see Jongin standing there, holding a bag out for him.
“Thanks.” He carefully places all the records into the bag and checks around the room to make sure he’s not forgetting anything. He doesn’t see anything else, so grabbing the bag, he begins to make his way to the front door.
His shoes are on and he’s ready to go before he notices that Jongin is there, too, putting his shoes on as well. Kyungsoo looks over, confused, and Jongin laughs. “Remember - I told Chanyeol I’d take you home. I can’t let you make your way their all on your own.”
Kyungsoo smiles wide. They head out and Kyungsoo is glad it’s not too far of a walk. He’s trying to plan out his show - he normally does the night before, but that obviously hadn’t worked out. With the new records, there’s a lot he can play and he’s so excited.
He debates if he wants to talk about Jongin at all. Not him specifically, but more about the ballet - it really was a great performance and, while Kyungsoo really only noticed Jongin the whole time, Kyungsoo is sure that the whole show was very good.
When they arrive, Kyungsoo is hesitant to go back inside. He knows he has things to do, but he’s found himself wanting to just stay here, in the dark, with Jongin. There’s one street light near them and it shines down on Jongin. He looks like angel, Kyungsoo thinks and smiles to himself.
Kyungsoo turns to the younger boy and asks, “Why did you walk me home? I mean, I know what you said about Chanyeol, but you didn’t have to agree in the first place. And why did you invite me up to your house and let me borrow your music and...” Kyungsoo takes a second, breathing. “And why did you put your arm around me and not want me to go?”
Jongin chuckles. “I already told you.” He steps forward, closing the gap that’s between them. “I like Do Kyungsoo.” And then Jongin kisses the top of his forehead and steps back, a grin wide across his face. “I’ll go first. See you later, Hyung!”
Kyungsoo stands, frozen, as he watches Jongin run off back towards his building. He reaches up and feels the mark of Jongin on his skin. He hears the boy’s words echo in his head over and over - I like Do Kyungsoo. I like Do Kyungsoo. I like Do Kyungsoo.
And Kyungsoo looks up and sees the sun starting to rise as he mutters to himself, “And I like Kim Jongin,” before he runs inside.