A as in Apple, L as in Love (for prompt 133)
Prompt: #133
Author: ANONYMOUS until reveals
Title: A as in Apple, L as in Love
Rating: PG
Length: 4,137 words
Summary: It's Jongin's first year as a kindergarten teacher and amidst all the chaos he finds himself falling in love.
Notes: Dear prompter I'm sorry I ran short on time and wasn't able to write all the little scenes in my head but I hope you will still enjoy this <3 To my pouch of friends, without you I'd have accomplished none of this. Here's to Sukai the best fluffy muffins \o/
Jongin winds the music box once more before laying it on his desk. The melody floats in the air calming and exciting him all at once. This year will be his first time as a kindergarten teacher. School is set to start a week from today and right now all the teachers are running around getting their classrooms ready before then.
He starts unloading the boxes Sehun had helped bring up to his classroom. He starts by placing the giant dango plushies in a corner for when it's reading time. He has just finished putting the last children's book away when he hears a knock on the door.
"Excuse me, Jongin-ssi?" He wheels around at the sound of his name. At the door is a short but adorable man with sun kissed brown hair and bright eyes.
"Yes?"
"I'm sorry to disturb you but I wanted to introduce myself. I'm Junmyeon Kim and I'm the head of the kindergarten department so if you have any questions please don't hesitate to come and ask." Junmyeon's smile is brilliant and Jongin has to blink twice to make sure he's real.
"Uh yea, thanks. I'm decorating my room right now but I do have a ton of questions to ask later. This is my first time actually teaching so I'm a bit nervous." Jongin shifts his feet around, unable to look up at Junmyeon after his small confession.
"Don't worry. This is my fourth year doing this and I still get a bit nervous before every school year, haha."
"You do? But you're the head-?" Junmyeon's smile only widens.
"Doesn't mean I don't get the jitters like everyone else. Never know if this year you're gonna get a handful of troublemakers or how many bathroom accidents you'll have to go through before the children finally learn it's ok to ask. Not to mention all the physical accidents that happen in the playground." Junmyeon stops ranting at the sight of Jongin's slightly pale face. "But don't worry too much! We have a great team this year and the children are always super sweet and cute. Myungsoo is the other kindergarten teacher and he's going to be right next door to you."
"Where will you be?"
"Right across from the hall from the both of you. I'll give you the grand tour once you're done. Then the three of us can meet up for some ground rules and basic procedures."
"Ok." Jongin nods his head trying to process and store all the information. Junmyeon laughs and reaches over to ruffle his hair.
"You'll be an amazing kindergarten teacher, don't you worry," Junmyeon beams. Jongin feels heat spread across his cheeks at the words and can't help but return the smile.
"With you leading us, I'm sure this year will go smoothly."
"Oh, no one said anything about a smooth year, Jongin-ssi. Now that's just wishful thinking."
"Wha-" Jongin feels his heart sink as Junmyeon leaves his room laughing. Just what had he gotten himself into.
Decorating his room takes longer than he had originally thought. The windows are covered with white butchered paper to keep distractions at a minimum. The carpet that is made up of colorful boxes had to be moved around twice before he finally settled on having it at the back corner of the room. He would just have to take his chance with the kids playing with his plushies during warm-up time. His office items like the stapler and pencil holders are all organized and placed neatly on his desk. All he needs now are the nameplates, but he has to wait to get his list of students before that, and think up of a theme to decorate the door with.
Two heads pop into his room, interrupting his thoughts for a second time that day. One of them Jongin recognizes as Junmyeon but the other one is a new face.
"Hello, Junmyeon-ssi." Jongin awkwardly greets. Junmyeon waves his hand.
"No need to be so formal. Just Junmyeon or Hyung is fine. Though in front of the kids you will have to call me Mr. Kim."
"No way! My last name is Kim, too!" The new face and Junmyeon turn to look at each other, frowning.
"Well that's a problem," the new guy says.
"Myungsoo, this is Jongin our new kindergarten teacher. Jongin, this is Myungsoo whose last name also happens to be Kim."
"We can't have all our kids calling us Mr. Kim," Myungsoo adds.
"They can call me...Mr. Jongin, perhaps?" Jongin supplies in his best attempt at being helpful.
"That works! Last year I had the kids call me Mr. Myung. Junmyeon won the rock paper scissors game and got to keep Mr. Kim as a reward." Myungsoo explains. They both seem very friendly as they bicker from the door and Jongin can't help but feel that maybe things won't be quite as bad with a team like this.
"So what about the grand tour you promised me?"
"Ah, that's right! Come, young grasshopper, let us show you the map out of your typical day."
"Is he always like this?" Jongin whispers to Myungsoo.
"Always. Especially on Mondays. I think he's determined to break the fact that Mondays are the worst day of the week."
"You can't break science."
"That's what I told him! Yet here we are, another Monday another T.V. show reference."
"He sounds nice."
"He's amazing." Jongin turns to see Myungsoo smiling fondly in Junmyeon's direction as the latter rants about restroom breaks and how convenient it is that they're right next to them.
"...and yet we still have accidents in the classrooms!" Myungsoo and Jongin both laugh at his exasperation. He then leads them back down the hallway to the glass double doors that lead to the playground. The sun blinds them as they step outside to the hot outdoors.
"This is your standard playground with slides and ladders. But keep an extra eye on the monkey bars. That's where almost all the broken bones come from. And the swings. I don't know why they seem to think it's a good idea to jump out from them." Junmyeon shakes his head.
Jongin nods trying to absorb all the information. He notices Myungsoo stepping closer before placing his chin on Jongin's shoulder. Despite only having just met, the proximity doesn't bother Jongin. In fact, it only adds to the feeling of welcome and anticipation he has for the coming school year. With these two by his side, he is sure he'll be just fine.
********
Two days before school is to start officially, the teachers are emailed a roster of their students and alerted of the upcoming Parent-Teacher conference that would be going on that very same night. Jongin is trying his best not to have a panic attack in the middle of his classroom floor. Inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale. What he needs right now are extra warm hugs with a side of encouraging words. He knows exactly who to ask for the perfect dose of comfort.
"Myungsoooooo," Jongin whines as soon as he steps inside Myungsoo's classroom. It looks much more put together than Jongin's own room. There's even a Lorax theme with Truffula trees along the walls.
"What is it, Jonginnie?" Jongin melts into his side even faster at the sound of his new nickname. Myungsoo pets his head and holds him comfortingly. Perfect.
"Meet the Teacher is tonight," Jongin mumbles.
"Yea, haven't you been getting the work emails?"
"....we have work emails?" Myungsoo smiles and pats Jongin's cheeks.
"Of course we have work emails. Come on, let's get you to Junmyeon to help you setup. And don't worry about the parents. There's no way they won't like you. Just know if any of them come across as too pushy it's because, for a lot of them, this is their first time letting their baby out of their sight for such long periods of time." Jongin nods in understanding as they walk out of Myungsoo's classroom and into Junmyeon's.
They find him at his desk, typing away furiously with his lip caught in between in lips. Jongin can't help but internally coo at how adorable the head of their department looks when focused. Myungsoo clears his throat, bringing Jongin and Junmyeon back to reality.
"Oh, hey! Did you guys need help with something?" Junmyeon gets up from his seat to walk up to them.
"Yes, actually. Jongin is having a panic attack about Meet the Teacher night and he needs to set up his work email. That and I'm hungry. Feed me, Mr. Kim." Junmyeon looks between them both.
"Ok! How about I help Jongin set up his email and then we all go out for lunch together? Give each other pep talks and pointers for tonight and then head back once you're both set. Sound good?"
"Sounds like a plan!" Jongin and Myungsoo chime. Junmyeon ruffles both of their heads. He then leads Jongin over to his laptop to help him set up his email.
"It's important to choose a password you'll remember but isn't easy to hack. If you know you're going to forget at some point, you're always welcome to give me a sticky note with your password on it. I'll keep it safe with Myungsoo's." Jongin looks at Myungsoo questioningly. Myungsoo shrugs.
"I forget it like every other day. Plus I trust Junmyeon not to hack into my emails and unveil my secrets and steal my identity." Junmyeon sputters.
"I would never-!" Myungsoo and Jongin laugh at his shocked expression.
"We know you wouldn't. That's why I trust you." Jongin nods his head along to Myungsoo's statement. Joonmyeon has been nothing but kind and helpful to him; it's hard not to trust someone like him. Jongin sits down and writes on a sticky note his new password: Jjangah94.
"Who, or what, is a Jjangah?" Jongin jumps a little in surprise. He had not been expecting Myungsoo to be looking over his shoulder. Jongin's cheeks heat up a little in embarrassment.
"Jjangah is my dog."
"Ah, we have ourselves a dog lover. I personally like cats much more."
"That's because you are a cat, ,Myungsoo. Now Jongin, just a quick fyi, the IT makes us reset our passwords every 90 days. We usually just add on a number each time just to avoid having to come up with a completely new password each time."
"Understood, Mr. Kim." Junmyeon laughs at the mock formal tone in Jongin's voice.
"How about lunch, you guys. I'm staaarrrviiinnng," Myungsoo whines.
The men laugh and head off to lunch together.
********
Jongin feels much more confident about Meet the Teacher night after lunch. He comes back and tidies up his classroom one final time to make sure it's spotless. All that's left to do is wait now.
A half hour drags on until, finally, his first student walks in the classroom. The girl has the cutest pigtails and bright smile. Her parents are holding her hands and peering into the classroom curiously.
"Mr. Kim???"
"Ah, yes but I just go by Mr. Jongin. There's a lot of Mr. Kims here at school." The parents laugh and walk inside. I can do this, Jongin thinks as they sit and take a seat across from him.
********
After that night, the days pass by much more quickly. Jongin blinks and suddenly it's 6 AM and in an hour his classroom will be filled with tiny people and he will be officially a teacher.
He tries to remember to breathe, that he's studied years for this. He can do this.
He's on the verge of having a mini freak out when Junmyeon walks into the room as if sensing his distress. Junmyeon wastes no time in walking up to him and guiding Jongin to the nearest chair. The seat is too small and Jongin's knees keep knocking against the table. Junmyeon has to sit on his knees to be eye level to Jongin. Junmyeon holds Jongin's face in his hands, anchoring him.
"Look at me, Jongin. It's ok. It's scary at first but remember Meet the Teacher night. The parents all loved you and so will the children. You're ready for this. Things will sometimes be bumpy and some days long but you have us. You have me." Jongin inhales. "That's it. Breathe, one, two, three. Inhale one, two, three. Exhale one, two, three." Jongin follows Junmyeon's instructions. He doesn't look away from Junmyeon's warm eyes, finding comfort in them.
"Ok. I'm ok. I can do this," Jongin says out loud. 6:30 AM. Junmyeon smiles. Jongin absorbs it all in, the feeling of safety and comfort and the confidence Junmyeon has in him, and nods. He'll have a room full of tiny beings and he'll be helping them grow in his own way and he will do an amazing job.
"Good. Remember Myungsoo and I are just next door if you need anything." Jongin nods his head and gets up from the chair, legs cramping from the uncomfortable position he was in. "Now let's make today a good day." Junmyeon smiles encouragingly on his way out. He can hear Myungsoo shouting words of encouragement through the walls. Jongin is more than ready.
His class is loud but adorable. There's Joy, the first student he met from Meet the Teacher night, Jonghyun and Kibum, an inseparable duo that seem to love fighting as much as they love playing together, and Dongwoo with his loud laugh just to name a few. There's a few bumps along the road. Jongin has to separate Sungjong and Joy at one point during recess because neither could settle down on who should be the king of the world. Kibum ends up with the role anyways but he lets Joy and Sungjong be his minions which made them happy so Jongin was glad for that,
Lining up is the tricky part. If one of them giggles then everyone would start giggling. Luckily, Jongin doesn't have to worry about any of that as Junmyeon stops by his room just as Jongin starts lining them up. There's something about Junmyeon's presence that is commanding and yet kind. The children line up quietly, bubbles in their mouth and hands behind their back like Jongin had asked them to. Junmyeon smiles at them and thanks each of them before turning to Jongin.
"Sorry to interrupt. Just wanted to give you a heads up for lunch you and Mr. Myung are switching tables. His class is a bit rowdier than last year so he needs the extra time to get them settled down. Is that ok with you?"
"Yea. Yea, that's fine." The both of them are always so ready to help Jongin so he feels it's the least he can do to help them a little in return.
"I would say thank you on Mr. Myung's behalf but I think we both know he'd much rather say it himself." Jongin laughs and agrees. Then, after making sure all the children had their lunchboxes. if they brought any, he set down the hallway after Junmyeon's class. Their little feet are speedwalking just to keep up with Jongin and he finds himself slowing down. They drop them off in the cafeteria and, after making sure they were all seated and ready to eat, left for their own well deserved lunch break.
Myungsoo instantly slumps into the little kids' seat when they return to Junmyeon's classroom for a quick break. Junmyeon massages his shoulders for awhile before bringing out their homemade lunches. To celebrate getting halfway through the first day, Junmyeon had decided to make them all lunch to eat together. Jongin can feel his stomach rumbling, ready for some yummy food.
"I'm sorry I'm not a gourmet chef and didn't bring cake but hey, we did it guys! Halfway through the day and only three nurse office visits and one puking incident. I think we're off to a good start!"
"There was a puking incident?" Jongin asks.
"One of the kids from my class, Sungjoo. Apparently he was so scared and nervous he got sick. His mom stopped by my class after picking him up to convince him that 'no, teachers don't eat kids' so hopefully tomorrow he'll be a bit better." Junmyeon pats Myungsoo's back encouragingly. Jongin lays his head on Myungsoo's shoulder having learned that physical contact comforts the older man. "But like hyung said it's been a good day and will be an even better year. So let's start eating! I'm starving," Chatter of their students continued even as they hungrily tore into the delicious food Junmyeon made.
********
A day turned into a week. A week into a months until Winter Break is around the corner. Jongin feels much more confident now. His students are chatting in their indoor voices making little snowflakes to take home and decorate their home's refrigerators. Joy walks up to him, her snowflakes pink and glitterfied.
"Mr. Jongin, can I take this to Mr. Kim?"
"Mr. Kim? Um, sure?"
"I'll say it's from you no worries, Mr. Jongin!"
"Wait, wha-" Jongin sputters, lost at the sudden turn of conversation.
"Daddy does it all the time. He makes me take things to Mommy to surprise her."
"But I didn't make him that snowflake. And why would I want to surprise him, I mean yes he's super kind and a really nice smile but-"
"But you like him don't you? I thought you two are like my Mommy and Daddy?"
"No! No we are co-workers! Not like your Mommy and and Daddy." Joy looks at him utterly confused and Jongin would think it's adorable except he's pretty sure his ears are red and his heart is beating way too fast. A knock on the door and Junmyeon is walking through the door. Cue the butterflies.
"Just wanted to check up on you and the kids. It's almost too quiet in the hallways." Jongin laughs at his joke and catches Joy whispering with Kibum from the corner of his eye.
"Mr. Kim! This is for you from Mr. Jongin!" Joy and Kibum chorus. Jongin feels his heart drop. Junmyeon bends down and accepts the gifts from them. He holds up the pink and glittery snowflake as he thanks the children.
ìAnd, of course, thank you to Mr. Jongin for the lovely gift.î Junmyeon smiles at him and Jongin finds himself melting. Joy and Kibum giggle before going back with their friends. Jongin slides closer to explain that it was all Joyís doing but Junmyeon beat him to it.
ìIím guessing Joy made this?î Jongin sighs in relief.
ìYes, she did. I donít know why she thought to say it was from me. Something about her mom and dad sending each other surprises. Little kids are so silly-î
ìJongin,î Junmyeon interrupts. ìYour ears are red.î Jongin feels even his face heat up. He waves his arms around trying to come up with some excuse. Junmyeon only continues smiling. "It's cute."
"Cute?" Jongin asks meekly. Junmyeon nods his head in affirmation.
"I came in here to check up on you but you've got everything under control and even have the kids acting messenger and passing gifts. Just don't forget Mr. Myung or he'll get sad." Jongin hastily assures Junmyeon that he'll send Myungsoo one as well before the end of the day. As soon as Junmyeon leaves, he whirls around to find Joy and Kibum hiding in a corner.
"Come here. I have a special mission for you two."
********
Jongin has a hard time looking Junmyeon in the face after that. He clings to Myungsoo instead because Myungsoo is a fellow clinger and welcomes all skinship without question. Until on the last day of school, after walking their classes into the gym for dismissal, Myungsoo backhugs Jongin and asks him, "So, you have a crush on Mr. Kim?"
Jongin freezes under his touch. He had thought about it. All the clusterfuck of feelings that had attacked him that day and what they meant. He knows he has a sort of admiration for Junmyeon. He is always ready to help, he was good with kids and an amazing cook. There was nothing not to love. He's even good looking and shares the same passion.
"I might?"
"You do."
"Yea, I do." Jongin stays quiet after that. He and Myungsoo walk for a short while before he speaks up again. "What should I do?" Myungsoo hums.
"Tell him. Worst that can happen is he bakes you a cake in apology. Ask for fan. It's the best." Jongin laughs catching Junmyeon's attention at the end of the hallway.
********
It's a week before Christmas. Jongin texted Junmyeon earlier this morning to meet up at the mall for some Christmas shopping. Honestly, he just wants to get his feelings out in the open. Junmyeon agrees to meet with him at the main entrance. Jongin spends hours in front of the mirror, tearing his closet apart. He finally settles on a button down shirt with some tight jeans. He's got thighs for days.
Junmyeon is waiting for him bundled up in a scarf and all that Jongin can think about is how cute Junmyeon looks with just the top of his eyes peering out. He coughs does a quick breath check before running up to greet Junmyeon.
"Hey hyung! You ready for some last minute Christmas shopping crazyness?" Junmyeon laughs.
"Can't be worse than a room full of five to six year olds, can it?"
It can. Way worse. It feels like every child on the planet is packed inside the mall with harried parents. Jongin finds himself unconsciously clinging to Junmyeon so he doesn't lose him in the crowd. They slip into the first store they come across. Luckily it's a small stationary store so not very many people are in it.
"This is perfect! Myungsoo loves this stuff. Hmm I'm sorry Jongin but I need you to wait here. Can't have you seeing your gift, either." Jongin feels his chest warm up. Junmyeon always thinking of others.
"That's fine, hyung. Just don't take too long!" Jongin waves Junmyeon off as he disappears behind the shelves. He stands there and thinks about ways to confess. In the coffee shop? Under a mistletoe? Next to the giant Christmas tree in the center of the mall?
"Mr. Jongin!" Jongin whirls around at the sound of the familiar voice calling his name. Joy runs up to him with pink washi tape and cards in hands.
"Hello Joy! Where are your parents?"
"Oh they in the store. Mommy is buying stuff for Daddy. He likes cute stuff. Are you shopping for Mr. Kim?"
"Actually, I am." Jongin smiles, an idea forming in his head. Joy's eyes lights up.
"Ooooooh, I knew it!"
"And I need your help. I have to make a pretty card for him like how your Mommy does for your Daddy." Joy puts on her most serious expression and Jongin tries his hardest not to laugh at how adorable it is.
"Ok, Mr. Jongin! Mommy always buys her cards over here."
A few minutes later Jongin is back at the entrance, waiting for Junmyeon. He has the card tucked away in his front pocket for the right moment be it at the coffee shop, under a mistletoe or some other cliche.
"Jongin!" Junmyeon walks up to him, bags swinging. His smile is contagious and Jongin takes a mental snapshot. They walk to a few more stores before the weight of the card becomes too much for Jongin to hold in.
It's in the coffee shop next to a small Christmas tree. He slips his card out, covered in hearts and glitterfied (courtesy of Joy). Junmyeon peers down at it curiously while they sit, waiting for their gingerbread lattes.
Even Santa doesn't make candy as sweet as you.
Junmyeon looks up at him the cutest blush dusting his cheeks. His eyes are bright and Jongin has to remind himself to breathe.
"Jongin-"
"I like you!" Jongin blurts out. He's 100% sure his ears are red again but he's also 89% sure Junmyeon might just like him too. Junmyeon leans over to kiss Jongin on the cheek, leaving a tingling feeling that reaches to Jongin's toes. He definitely likes him back.
"I'd thought you'd never say anything." Jongin blinks at him in shock.
"Was I that obvious?" Junmyeon laughs.
"Even a five year old could tell, Jongin. It was cute, really." Jongin blushes harder and pouts not knowing what else to do. Junmyeon reaches for his hand, giving it a little squeeze.
"I like you, too." Jongin feels his his face stretch at the stupid smile decorating his lips. Christmas might just be his new favorite season if he gets a little bundled up Junmyeon every year to spend it with.
Author: ANONYMOUS until reveals
Title: A as in Apple, L as in Love
Rating: PG
Length: 4,137 words
Summary: It's Jongin's first year as a kindergarten teacher and amidst all the chaos he finds himself falling in love.
Notes: Dear prompter I'm sorry I ran short on time and wasn't able to write all the little scenes in my head but I hope you will still enjoy this <3 To my pouch of friends, without you I'd have accomplished none of this. Here's to Sukai the best fluffy muffins \o/
Jongin winds the music box once more before laying it on his desk. The melody floats in the air calming and exciting him all at once. This year will be his first time as a kindergarten teacher. School is set to start a week from today and right now all the teachers are running around getting their classrooms ready before then.
He starts unloading the boxes Sehun had helped bring up to his classroom. He starts by placing the giant dango plushies in a corner for when it's reading time. He has just finished putting the last children's book away when he hears a knock on the door.
"Excuse me, Jongin-ssi?" He wheels around at the sound of his name. At the door is a short but adorable man with sun kissed brown hair and bright eyes.
"Yes?"
"I'm sorry to disturb you but I wanted to introduce myself. I'm Junmyeon Kim and I'm the head of the kindergarten department so if you have any questions please don't hesitate to come and ask." Junmyeon's smile is brilliant and Jongin has to blink twice to make sure he's real.
"Uh yea, thanks. I'm decorating my room right now but I do have a ton of questions to ask later. This is my first time actually teaching so I'm a bit nervous." Jongin shifts his feet around, unable to look up at Junmyeon after his small confession.
"Don't worry. This is my fourth year doing this and I still get a bit nervous before every school year, haha."
"You do? But you're the head-?" Junmyeon's smile only widens.
"Doesn't mean I don't get the jitters like everyone else. Never know if this year you're gonna get a handful of troublemakers or how many bathroom accidents you'll have to go through before the children finally learn it's ok to ask. Not to mention all the physical accidents that happen in the playground." Junmyeon stops ranting at the sight of Jongin's slightly pale face. "But don't worry too much! We have a great team this year and the children are always super sweet and cute. Myungsoo is the other kindergarten teacher and he's going to be right next door to you."
"Where will you be?"
"Right across from the hall from the both of you. I'll give you the grand tour once you're done. Then the three of us can meet up for some ground rules and basic procedures."
"Ok." Jongin nods his head trying to process and store all the information. Junmyeon laughs and reaches over to ruffle his hair.
"You'll be an amazing kindergarten teacher, don't you worry," Junmyeon beams. Jongin feels heat spread across his cheeks at the words and can't help but return the smile.
"With you leading us, I'm sure this year will go smoothly."
"Oh, no one said anything about a smooth year, Jongin-ssi. Now that's just wishful thinking."
"Wha-" Jongin feels his heart sink as Junmyeon leaves his room laughing. Just what had he gotten himself into.
Decorating his room takes longer than he had originally thought. The windows are covered with white butchered paper to keep distractions at a minimum. The carpet that is made up of colorful boxes had to be moved around twice before he finally settled on having it at the back corner of the room. He would just have to take his chance with the kids playing with his plushies during warm-up time. His office items like the stapler and pencil holders are all organized and placed neatly on his desk. All he needs now are the nameplates, but he has to wait to get his list of students before that, and think up of a theme to decorate the door with.
Two heads pop into his room, interrupting his thoughts for a second time that day. One of them Jongin recognizes as Junmyeon but the other one is a new face.
"Hello, Junmyeon-ssi." Jongin awkwardly greets. Junmyeon waves his hand.
"No need to be so formal. Just Junmyeon or Hyung is fine. Though in front of the kids you will have to call me Mr. Kim."
"No way! My last name is Kim, too!" The new face and Junmyeon turn to look at each other, frowning.
"Well that's a problem," the new guy says.
"Myungsoo, this is Jongin our new kindergarten teacher. Jongin, this is Myungsoo whose last name also happens to be Kim."
"We can't have all our kids calling us Mr. Kim," Myungsoo adds.
"They can call me...Mr. Jongin, perhaps?" Jongin supplies in his best attempt at being helpful.
"That works! Last year I had the kids call me Mr. Myung. Junmyeon won the rock paper scissors game and got to keep Mr. Kim as a reward." Myungsoo explains. They both seem very friendly as they bicker from the door and Jongin can't help but feel that maybe things won't be quite as bad with a team like this.
"So what about the grand tour you promised me?"
"Ah, that's right! Come, young grasshopper, let us show you the map out of your typical day."
"Is he always like this?" Jongin whispers to Myungsoo.
"Always. Especially on Mondays. I think he's determined to break the fact that Mondays are the worst day of the week."
"You can't break science."
"That's what I told him! Yet here we are, another Monday another T.V. show reference."
"He sounds nice."
"He's amazing." Jongin turns to see Myungsoo smiling fondly in Junmyeon's direction as the latter rants about restroom breaks and how convenient it is that they're right next to them.
"...and yet we still have accidents in the classrooms!" Myungsoo and Jongin both laugh at his exasperation. He then leads them back down the hallway to the glass double doors that lead to the playground. The sun blinds them as they step outside to the hot outdoors.
"This is your standard playground with slides and ladders. But keep an extra eye on the monkey bars. That's where almost all the broken bones come from. And the swings. I don't know why they seem to think it's a good idea to jump out from them." Junmyeon shakes his head.
Jongin nods trying to absorb all the information. He notices Myungsoo stepping closer before placing his chin on Jongin's shoulder. Despite only having just met, the proximity doesn't bother Jongin. In fact, it only adds to the feeling of welcome and anticipation he has for the coming school year. With these two by his side, he is sure he'll be just fine.
********
Two days before school is to start officially, the teachers are emailed a roster of their students and alerted of the upcoming Parent-Teacher conference that would be going on that very same night. Jongin is trying his best not to have a panic attack in the middle of his classroom floor. Inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale. What he needs right now are extra warm hugs with a side of encouraging words. He knows exactly who to ask for the perfect dose of comfort.
"Myungsoooooo," Jongin whines as soon as he steps inside Myungsoo's classroom. It looks much more put together than Jongin's own room. There's even a Lorax theme with Truffula trees along the walls.
"What is it, Jonginnie?" Jongin melts into his side even faster at the sound of his new nickname. Myungsoo pets his head and holds him comfortingly. Perfect.
"Meet the Teacher is tonight," Jongin mumbles.
"Yea, haven't you been getting the work emails?"
"....we have work emails?" Myungsoo smiles and pats Jongin's cheeks.
"Of course we have work emails. Come on, let's get you to Junmyeon to help you setup. And don't worry about the parents. There's no way they won't like you. Just know if any of them come across as too pushy it's because, for a lot of them, this is their first time letting their baby out of their sight for such long periods of time." Jongin nods in understanding as they walk out of Myungsoo's classroom and into Junmyeon's.
They find him at his desk, typing away furiously with his lip caught in between in lips. Jongin can't help but internally coo at how adorable the head of their department looks when focused. Myungsoo clears his throat, bringing Jongin and Junmyeon back to reality.
"Oh, hey! Did you guys need help with something?" Junmyeon gets up from his seat to walk up to them.
"Yes, actually. Jongin is having a panic attack about Meet the Teacher night and he needs to set up his work email. That and I'm hungry. Feed me, Mr. Kim." Junmyeon looks between them both.
"Ok! How about I help Jongin set up his email and then we all go out for lunch together? Give each other pep talks and pointers for tonight and then head back once you're both set. Sound good?"
"Sounds like a plan!" Jongin and Myungsoo chime. Junmyeon ruffles both of their heads. He then leads Jongin over to his laptop to help him set up his email.
"It's important to choose a password you'll remember but isn't easy to hack. If you know you're going to forget at some point, you're always welcome to give me a sticky note with your password on it. I'll keep it safe with Myungsoo's." Jongin looks at Myungsoo questioningly. Myungsoo shrugs.
"I forget it like every other day. Plus I trust Junmyeon not to hack into my emails and unveil my secrets and steal my identity." Junmyeon sputters.
"I would never-!" Myungsoo and Jongin laugh at his shocked expression.
"We know you wouldn't. That's why I trust you." Jongin nods his head along to Myungsoo's statement. Joonmyeon has been nothing but kind and helpful to him; it's hard not to trust someone like him. Jongin sits down and writes on a sticky note his new password: Jjangah94.
"Who, or what, is a Jjangah?" Jongin jumps a little in surprise. He had not been expecting Myungsoo to be looking over his shoulder. Jongin's cheeks heat up a little in embarrassment.
"Jjangah is my dog."
"Ah, we have ourselves a dog lover. I personally like cats much more."
"That's because you are a cat, ,Myungsoo. Now Jongin, just a quick fyi, the IT makes us reset our passwords every 90 days. We usually just add on a number each time just to avoid having to come up with a completely new password each time."
"Understood, Mr. Kim." Junmyeon laughs at the mock formal tone in Jongin's voice.
"How about lunch, you guys. I'm staaarrrviiinnng," Myungsoo whines.
The men laugh and head off to lunch together.
********
Jongin feels much more confident about Meet the Teacher night after lunch. He comes back and tidies up his classroom one final time to make sure it's spotless. All that's left to do is wait now.
A half hour drags on until, finally, his first student walks in the classroom. The girl has the cutest pigtails and bright smile. Her parents are holding her hands and peering into the classroom curiously.
"Mr. Kim???"
"Ah, yes but I just go by Mr. Jongin. There's a lot of Mr. Kims here at school." The parents laugh and walk inside. I can do this, Jongin thinks as they sit and take a seat across from him.
********
After that night, the days pass by much more quickly. Jongin blinks and suddenly it's 6 AM and in an hour his classroom will be filled with tiny people and he will be officially a teacher.
He tries to remember to breathe, that he's studied years for this. He can do this.
He's on the verge of having a mini freak out when Junmyeon walks into the room as if sensing his distress. Junmyeon wastes no time in walking up to him and guiding Jongin to the nearest chair. The seat is too small and Jongin's knees keep knocking against the table. Junmyeon has to sit on his knees to be eye level to Jongin. Junmyeon holds Jongin's face in his hands, anchoring him.
"Look at me, Jongin. It's ok. It's scary at first but remember Meet the Teacher night. The parents all loved you and so will the children. You're ready for this. Things will sometimes be bumpy and some days long but you have us. You have me." Jongin inhales. "That's it. Breathe, one, two, three. Inhale one, two, three. Exhale one, two, three." Jongin follows Junmyeon's instructions. He doesn't look away from Junmyeon's warm eyes, finding comfort in them.
"Ok. I'm ok. I can do this," Jongin says out loud. 6:30 AM. Junmyeon smiles. Jongin absorbs it all in, the feeling of safety and comfort and the confidence Junmyeon has in him, and nods. He'll have a room full of tiny beings and he'll be helping them grow in his own way and he will do an amazing job.
"Good. Remember Myungsoo and I are just next door if you need anything." Jongin nods his head and gets up from the chair, legs cramping from the uncomfortable position he was in. "Now let's make today a good day." Junmyeon smiles encouragingly on his way out. He can hear Myungsoo shouting words of encouragement through the walls. Jongin is more than ready.
His class is loud but adorable. There's Joy, the first student he met from Meet the Teacher night, Jonghyun and Kibum, an inseparable duo that seem to love fighting as much as they love playing together, and Dongwoo with his loud laugh just to name a few. There's a few bumps along the road. Jongin has to separate Sungjong and Joy at one point during recess because neither could settle down on who should be the king of the world. Kibum ends up with the role anyways but he lets Joy and Sungjong be his minions which made them happy so Jongin was glad for that,
Lining up is the tricky part. If one of them giggles then everyone would start giggling. Luckily, Jongin doesn't have to worry about any of that as Junmyeon stops by his room just as Jongin starts lining them up. There's something about Junmyeon's presence that is commanding and yet kind. The children line up quietly, bubbles in their mouth and hands behind their back like Jongin had asked them to. Junmyeon smiles at them and thanks each of them before turning to Jongin.
"Sorry to interrupt. Just wanted to give you a heads up for lunch you and Mr. Myung are switching tables. His class is a bit rowdier than last year so he needs the extra time to get them settled down. Is that ok with you?"
"Yea. Yea, that's fine." The both of them are always so ready to help Jongin so he feels it's the least he can do to help them a little in return.
"I would say thank you on Mr. Myung's behalf but I think we both know he'd much rather say it himself." Jongin laughs and agrees. Then, after making sure all the children had their lunchboxes. if they brought any, he set down the hallway after Junmyeon's class. Their little feet are speedwalking just to keep up with Jongin and he finds himself slowing down. They drop them off in the cafeteria and, after making sure they were all seated and ready to eat, left for their own well deserved lunch break.
Myungsoo instantly slumps into the little kids' seat when they return to Junmyeon's classroom for a quick break. Junmyeon massages his shoulders for awhile before bringing out their homemade lunches. To celebrate getting halfway through the first day, Junmyeon had decided to make them all lunch to eat together. Jongin can feel his stomach rumbling, ready for some yummy food.
"I'm sorry I'm not a gourmet chef and didn't bring cake but hey, we did it guys! Halfway through the day and only three nurse office visits and one puking incident. I think we're off to a good start!"
"There was a puking incident?" Jongin asks.
"One of the kids from my class, Sungjoo. Apparently he was so scared and nervous he got sick. His mom stopped by my class after picking him up to convince him that 'no, teachers don't eat kids' so hopefully tomorrow he'll be a bit better." Junmyeon pats Myungsoo's back encouragingly. Jongin lays his head on Myungsoo's shoulder having learned that physical contact comforts the older man. "But like hyung said it's been a good day and will be an even better year. So let's start eating! I'm starving," Chatter of their students continued even as they hungrily tore into the delicious food Junmyeon made.
********
A day turned into a week. A week into a months until Winter Break is around the corner. Jongin feels much more confident now. His students are chatting in their indoor voices making little snowflakes to take home and decorate their home's refrigerators. Joy walks up to him, her snowflakes pink and glitterfied.
"Mr. Jongin, can I take this to Mr. Kim?"
"Mr. Kim? Um, sure?"
"I'll say it's from you no worries, Mr. Jongin!"
"Wait, wha-" Jongin sputters, lost at the sudden turn of conversation.
"Daddy does it all the time. He makes me take things to Mommy to surprise her."
"But I didn't make him that snowflake. And why would I want to surprise him, I mean yes he's super kind and a really nice smile but-"
"But you like him don't you? I thought you two are like my Mommy and Daddy?"
"No! No we are co-workers! Not like your Mommy and and Daddy." Joy looks at him utterly confused and Jongin would think it's adorable except he's pretty sure his ears are red and his heart is beating way too fast. A knock on the door and Junmyeon is walking through the door. Cue the butterflies.
"Just wanted to check up on you and the kids. It's almost too quiet in the hallways." Jongin laughs at his joke and catches Joy whispering with Kibum from the corner of his eye.
"Mr. Kim! This is for you from Mr. Jongin!" Joy and Kibum chorus. Jongin feels his heart drop. Junmyeon bends down and accepts the gifts from them. He holds up the pink and glittery snowflake as he thanks the children.
ìAnd, of course, thank you to Mr. Jongin for the lovely gift.î Junmyeon smiles at him and Jongin finds himself melting. Joy and Kibum giggle before going back with their friends. Jongin slides closer to explain that it was all Joyís doing but Junmyeon beat him to it.
ìIím guessing Joy made this?î Jongin sighs in relief.
ìYes, she did. I donít know why she thought to say it was from me. Something about her mom and dad sending each other surprises. Little kids are so silly-î
ìJongin,î Junmyeon interrupts. ìYour ears are red.î Jongin feels even his face heat up. He waves his arms around trying to come up with some excuse. Junmyeon only continues smiling. "It's cute."
"Cute?" Jongin asks meekly. Junmyeon nods his head in affirmation.
"I came in here to check up on you but you've got everything under control and even have the kids acting messenger and passing gifts. Just don't forget Mr. Myung or he'll get sad." Jongin hastily assures Junmyeon that he'll send Myungsoo one as well before the end of the day. As soon as Junmyeon leaves, he whirls around to find Joy and Kibum hiding in a corner.
"Come here. I have a special mission for you two."
********
Jongin has a hard time looking Junmyeon in the face after that. He clings to Myungsoo instead because Myungsoo is a fellow clinger and welcomes all skinship without question. Until on the last day of school, after walking their classes into the gym for dismissal, Myungsoo backhugs Jongin and asks him, "So, you have a crush on Mr. Kim?"
Jongin freezes under his touch. He had thought about it. All the clusterfuck of feelings that had attacked him that day and what they meant. He knows he has a sort of admiration for Junmyeon. He is always ready to help, he was good with kids and an amazing cook. There was nothing not to love. He's even good looking and shares the same passion.
"I might?"
"You do."
"Yea, I do." Jongin stays quiet after that. He and Myungsoo walk for a short while before he speaks up again. "What should I do?" Myungsoo hums.
"Tell him. Worst that can happen is he bakes you a cake in apology. Ask for fan. It's the best." Jongin laughs catching Junmyeon's attention at the end of the hallway.
********
It's a week before Christmas. Jongin texted Junmyeon earlier this morning to meet up at the mall for some Christmas shopping. Honestly, he just wants to get his feelings out in the open. Junmyeon agrees to meet with him at the main entrance. Jongin spends hours in front of the mirror, tearing his closet apart. He finally settles on a button down shirt with some tight jeans. He's got thighs for days.
Junmyeon is waiting for him bundled up in a scarf and all that Jongin can think about is how cute Junmyeon looks with just the top of his eyes peering out. He coughs does a quick breath check before running up to greet Junmyeon.
"Hey hyung! You ready for some last minute Christmas shopping crazyness?" Junmyeon laughs.
"Can't be worse than a room full of five to six year olds, can it?"
It can. Way worse. It feels like every child on the planet is packed inside the mall with harried parents. Jongin finds himself unconsciously clinging to Junmyeon so he doesn't lose him in the crowd. They slip into the first store they come across. Luckily it's a small stationary store so not very many people are in it.
"This is perfect! Myungsoo loves this stuff. Hmm I'm sorry Jongin but I need you to wait here. Can't have you seeing your gift, either." Jongin feels his chest warm up. Junmyeon always thinking of others.
"That's fine, hyung. Just don't take too long!" Jongin waves Junmyeon off as he disappears behind the shelves. He stands there and thinks about ways to confess. In the coffee shop? Under a mistletoe? Next to the giant Christmas tree in the center of the mall?
"Mr. Jongin!" Jongin whirls around at the sound of the familiar voice calling his name. Joy runs up to him with pink washi tape and cards in hands.
"Hello Joy! Where are your parents?"
"Oh they in the store. Mommy is buying stuff for Daddy. He likes cute stuff. Are you shopping for Mr. Kim?"
"Actually, I am." Jongin smiles, an idea forming in his head. Joy's eyes lights up.
"Ooooooh, I knew it!"
"And I need your help. I have to make a pretty card for him like how your Mommy does for your Daddy." Joy puts on her most serious expression and Jongin tries his hardest not to laugh at how adorable it is.
"Ok, Mr. Jongin! Mommy always buys her cards over here."
A few minutes later Jongin is back at the entrance, waiting for Junmyeon. He has the card tucked away in his front pocket for the right moment be it at the coffee shop, under a mistletoe or some other cliche.
"Jongin!" Junmyeon walks up to him, bags swinging. His smile is contagious and Jongin takes a mental snapshot. They walk to a few more stores before the weight of the card becomes too much for Jongin to hold in.
It's in the coffee shop next to a small Christmas tree. He slips his card out, covered in hearts and glitterfied (courtesy of Joy). Junmyeon peers down at it curiously while they sit, waiting for their gingerbread lattes.
Even Santa doesn't make candy as sweet as you.
Junmyeon looks up at him the cutest blush dusting his cheeks. His eyes are bright and Jongin has to remind himself to breathe.
"Jongin-"
"I like you!" Jongin blurts out. He's 100% sure his ears are red again but he's also 89% sure Junmyeon might just like him too. Junmyeon leans over to kiss Jongin on the cheek, leaving a tingling feeling that reaches to Jongin's toes. He definitely likes him back.
"I'd thought you'd never say anything." Jongin blinks at him in shock.
"Was I that obvious?" Junmyeon laughs.
"Even a five year old could tell, Jongin. It was cute, really." Jongin blushes harder and pouts not knowing what else to do. Junmyeon reaches for his hand, giving it a little squeeze.
"I like you, too." Jongin feels his his face stretch at the stupid smile decorating his lips. Christmas might just be his new favorite season if he gets a little bundled up Junmyeon every year to spend it with.