Keeping Façades (1/4)
Title: KEEPING FAÇADES
Pairings: Lu Han & Tiffany (Miyoung) | Lu Han & Sehun
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: MaleXMale; Adultery; Rape
Description
In which Lu Han is married to Miyoung,
Sehun is seeing Lu Han,
And Miyoung is just hopelessly in love.
~
“Do you trust me?”
“Yes. I do trust you.”
“I don’t think I could give you the proper honeymoon tonight.”
“I’m not sure if I understand…”
“And I don’t think I could give you what you want either. For that, I am sorry.”
Chapter One
Miyoung breathes out, carefully studying herself one last time in front of the bathroom mirror before going out and into the bedroom of their hotel suite.
She is no longer Hwang Miyoung, but rather Mrs. Lu. She chuckles before frowning at her reflection. That sounds old. But she guesses it's the perks of having been married; to the man she loves no less, so she doesn't regret anything.
Tonight is their first night as wife and husband, she and Lu Han. The wedding ceremony earlier in the afternoon took place in an elegant hall somewhere in Seoul, with their families and friends as witnesses to them being one. It was then followed by reception, a festive banquet with delicious finger foods and overflowing drinks, accompanied by beautiful music to complete the perfect and romantic ambience of the event.
To some of the guests, it was a marriage brought by love between two beautiful people, a match made in heaven so they say. They look perfect together, perfect for each other. Both are from well-off families, both are highly educated, blessed with good looks and manners. Really, the word perfect seemed so apt for the newly wedded couple.
But what they did not know is it being a facade. A business transaction made by two companies to strengthen and solidify their positions in the business world, giving them the power of one venture that any business in Seoul and Beijing would pale in comparison. It is all just a mask.
Only the families of both parties knew about the real reason behind the merger; the public knows that the wedding happened because Lu Han and Miyoung wanted to settle down after fifteen years of friendship and two years of being in an exclusive relationship as boyfriend and girlfriend. Everyone knows they are both deeply, madly and truly in love. They are aware that, yes, the Lu Corporation will now be merged with Hwang Industries, since Lu Han and Miyoung are both heirs to said companies and it is only beneficial to do so. Little did they know that the two have been arranged to be married even before they could walk and be introduced to one another when they were young. It was somewhat cruel of their parents, but cruelty has been set aside for power to take its place.
However, everything is different for Miyoung.
She is, in fact, deeply, madly and truly in love with Lu Han.
Smiling at her own reflection, Miyoung turns to saunter out of the door, ready to face her husband. She has prepared for this, with her beautiful white, silk night gown that accentuates her figure and hair brushed to perfection; she walked to where Lu Han sits. He is lounging out in the balcony of their room, enjoying the peaceful night and the summery breeze Jeju Island has to offer. They have chosen the place because it is near the capital, as compared to Prague where Miyoung originally planned for their honeymoon. Besides, the island is beautiful enough and it offers many things for them to do. But now, Miyoung has to focus on the man sitting in front of her holding a cup of coffee in one hand and a phone on the other. He doesn't seem to notice her arrival.
"Hey," she greets, sitting beside him with a smile.
Lu Han looks up, surprised written on his face but it is immediately replaced with a warm smile. "Hey back."
Miyoung doesn't know what to say, words leaving her upon seeing his smile, his doe eyes twinkling like the stars in the night sky above them.
"How are you feeling?" Lu Han asks, putting down his coffee and phone on the table beside the black couch.
"I'm fine," she answers, voice small.
"Hm," Lu Han hums. "You're so beautiful earlier in the ceremony. Have I told you that?"
She turns her face to him before smiling weakly, butterflies fluttering in her stomach. "I guess you have. When we met at the altar, you whispered."
"Ah, right," he chuckles and his eyes crinkled at the sides. Miyoung wants to smooth them with her fingers. "I almost forgot. But really, you are the most beautiful girl in the room. I'm not sorry to my mom."
"Thank you. You weren't so bad yourself." It was an understatement, Miyoung knows that for sure. If anything, Lu Han looked like an angel in his white three-pieced suit with his hair pushed back and a constant smile plastered on his small, handsome face.
Comfortable silence veils upon them, and no one speaks for quite some time, contented with enjoying the view in front of them. The sea, albeit dark, looks so serene, waves gently splashing and covering the shore. The moon is reflected on the water along with millions of stars. Despite the season being a summer, there's not much people out, or maybe because they are staying in an exclusive resorts where people opted to rest in their own suites and have business meetings inside the luxurious dining hall below. Or maybe because it is thirty minutes beforemidnight and most guests are already asleep.
"Miyoung?"
She jumps a little on her seat upon hearing his quiet voice and Miyoung looks questioningly at him.
Lu Han clears his throat before asking, "Do you trust me?"
Taken aback by his randomness, Miyoung just bobs her head.
"Do you, really?" He asks again.
"Yes, Lu Han. I do trust you."
Lu Han scoots closer to her and held her hands, and Miyoung is suddenly nervous. Is this it? She asks herself.
But what Lu Han said answered her question, and it wasn't the answer she was expecting to hear from him.
"I don't think I could give you the proper honeymoon tonight." Lu Han is looking at her, right in her eyes and she could see the honesty in his expression.
"I'm not sure if I understand..."
"And I don't think I could give you what you want either. For that, I am sorry."
"Lu Han," she starts saying but Lu Han squeezes her hands so she stops.
"I asked you if you trust me, you said you do. So I am going to tell you this, since you have been very dear to me and a good friend to me, you're practically my best friend," Lu Han smiles and she returns it gladly. "And also becauseyou have the right to know, with you being my wife and all."Miyoung swears her heart stopped beating for a second when he said that.
"What is it, Han?"
The young man sighs and suddenly he doesn't look young, and when Miyoung says he doesn't look young, she means he isn't like a 17 year-old like the usual. Lu Han looks like his age, 25, burdened with stress and responsibilities. He bites his lower lip, hesitant and Miyoung encourages him to say what's bothering him by pressing on his hand.
"Promise me you won't judge. Or be disgusted. Promise me," Lu Han says, desperate.
"Are you sick?"Miyoung concludes, and she suddenly worries for her husband's well-being. Is that why he cannot make love to her? Because he is sick and he might contaminate her with his disease? It's the only reason she could come up with.
"No," he shakes his head. "It's not like that."
"Then what?"
"I'm... My sexual preference, it's different... Different than normal," Lu Han finally says in a low voice.
Miyoung blinks up at him, eyebrows furrowed in confusion. Is he perhaps saying...?
"Lu Han," she says cautiously. "Are you saying you are gay?"
Luhan swallows the lump in his throat, thanking her in his mind for picking up so quickly.
"Yes," he answers, this time with his voice loud and clear. "Yes, Miyoung. I am gay."
~~
Lu Han fidgets on his seat, hands atop the table and playing on his phone, waiting for a text message that doesn't seem to come.
Where the hell are you?
He texted and sent it, sipping on his coffee after. He's been sitting at his table at the secluded area of the fancy restaurant in downtown Seoul and his impatience is brewing by the minute because the person he's supposed to meet is thirty minutes late already.
Almost there.
The reply was brief, but it was promising so Lu Han relaxes a little. He runs his fingers through his dark hair, fixing the collar of his white long sleeves shirtand dusting off his black jeans. He makes sure that the first two button of his shirt is open and his milky white skin shows in a teasing manner.
"I'm sorry I took so long." A hand on his shoulder brushes quickly and it is gone, and Lu Han recognizes the touch like the back of his hand. Oh Sehun's deep voice resonates through his ear and it gives off a calming effect on him. He smiles as the gorgeous man takes his seat across from him, removing his sunglasses before casually grabbing Lu Han's cup of coffee and sipping on it like it's a normal thing to do.
"You're late," Lu Han says, glaring at the man wearing black polo shirt that shows off his broad shoulders.
"I know and I'm sorry. Traffic was so bad that I got stuck,"Sehun smiles apologetically at him.
Lu Han shrugs, reaching back for his coffee and drinking on it.
"How was your honeymoon? Did you enjoy counting sheep for three days?"Sehun asks him, a playful grin plastered on his face.
Lu Han snorts, "shut up. I had fun."
"Oh,"Sehun's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Did you perhaps do your lovely wife?"
"Oh Sehun, please. Don't say disgusting things like that."
Sehun cackles and grabs his hand. Lu Han glances around the room, grateful that no one is looking. "You know," the younger man starts, "I've missed you so bad. Maybe I could do you now?"
"God, Sehun. You are so promiscuous."
"Promiscuous?"Sehun scoffs. "You've just been living with Miyoung for two weeks and already you got her wide vocabulary? What's next? Blasphemy?Infidelity?"
"Infidelity is a good word to describe our relationship now, you know," Lu Han says timidly.
Sehun's face darkens. "What, are you feeling guilty for cheating on your wife with me now?"
"It's not like that, Sehun-ah---"
"Ha! Maybe you are. Have you developed any feelings for her now and dumped your platonic love you have for her before? Are you in love with her now? That's why you're feeling guilty?"Sehun seethed, eyes glaring at the dumbfounded man in front of him. "Just so you know, Lu Han, I got you first; technically you are cheating on me with her. I don't give a shit about a piece of paper that says you're married to her."Sehun's grip tightens on Lu Han's hand. "You're mine, Lu Han. Only mine."
He whimpers. "Sehun, you're hurting me."
"Tell me you're mine, Lu Han,"Sehun growls, holding his hand firmly.
"Yours, Sehun-ah. I'm yours. Always," Lu Han says.
"Good."
Despite Sehun's abrupt outburst, everything after that went well. They had eaten then, ordering sumptuous meals the restaurant has to offer to celebrate their reunion after almost three weeks of not seeing each other. Lu Han did not dare invite Sehun on his wedding, not that the latter wanted to go, and he was busy with his classes because the summer classes are almost coming to an end and with that comes the many exams and project deadlines.
Sehun, despite his tender age of 24, is a professor at Yonsei University, where Lu Han attended his college. Sehun teaches in the NatSci department, and he met Lu Han in one of his classes when the latter took up units in Physics. He was attracted by the man's femininity and beauty, and the moment Lu Han submitted his final paper and was out of his class, Sehun took his chance to ask him out on a date to which Lu Han gladly agreed. They were 21 and 22 then.
For four years, they have managed to hide their relationship, only going out as best friends, but when inside a room, a bedroom, they are more than friends. They are lovers.
Lu Han loves Sehun. He truly does, and it pained him when he had to break out the news to Sehun of him getting married to Miyoung. Sehun is no stranger to her, having met her several times at parties Lu Han asked him to go with, and knows about her and Lu Han's supposed relationship. Sehuncannot deny Miyoung's beauty, and would have been attracted to her if his sexual orientation is different. But Lu Han is more than enough for him, and he is in love with the man so he doesn't need anyone anymore.
"Say, you're place or mine?"Sehun asks after they've finished their meals and paid for the bill.
"You know we can't go to my house now, so the default is yours," Lu han says, wiping his mouth with napkin.
"Right,"Sehun smirks. "But I haven't been to your place, hyung."
"I'll bring you there sometime, when Miyoung is away in a business trip or something."
"What does it look like?"
"Pretty. Big rooms, fire place, garden, indoor pool. Very nice."
"Hm,"Sehun hums. "Let's go to my pad then."
The two heads out and both get in their own cars. Lu Han knows the place very well and follows Sehun out of the parking lot. Traffic is light by then and they arrive at the condominium in twenty minutes.
The ride in the lift is stuffy, with only the two of them as passengers. The tension, sexual tension, is thick that one can cut a knife through it. Lu Han's palms are sweaty and are itching to touch Sehun but he has to restrain himself for there are security cameras in the lift. The moment the elevator dings and opens, Sehun grabs Lu Han's hand and the walk fast until they reach Sehun's unit. Sehun taps the four-digit code on the security lock, 1220, and opens the door wide, pulling Lu Han inside and closing it with a loud bang.
Lu Han closes his eyes as he was pressed by the door, Sehun's body perfectly molding on his. Sehun kisses him fervently, hotly until their tongues battle for dominance. Sehun wins, of course. Sehun always wins. Lu Han gasps in the kiss when he heard a ripping sound, it is his shirt and Sehun tore it open, buttons flying everywhere.
"Shit, Sehun. How do you think will I explain this to Mi---"
"I'll lend you clothes, hyung. And please don't say her name. Her name is forbidden here,"Sehun pulls away and grabs his face to kiss his nose. "Let's forget that you're married when we are here."
"Okay," Lu Han agrees, bringing his face closer to Sehun's to kiss him again, and the younger kisses back immediately.
Sehun's kisses lower, trailing a path on Lu Han's jaw, licking and tugging on his earlobe and then down to Lu Han's neck. He presses butterfly kisses on the soft skin before latching his tongue in a spot he knows could bring pleasure to his lover. Lu Han moans, just as expected, but he pushes Sehun away. Sehun cocks his head, "why?"
"No love bites for now, Sehun-ah. I'm sorry."
"Fuck," the younger hisses.
"I can't let her see---"
"Fine!"Sehun strips him off his shirt completely before lapping on his collarbones, and soon Lu Han melted in a puddle of goo.
"I've missed you so much, hyung,"Sehun whispers, kissing the corner of Lu Han's lips as he works the latter's jeans open. "So fucking much."
An hour later, two bodies are lying on the king-sized bed, sweaty limbs entangled together and pants and contented sighs resonates across the bedroom.
Sehun grabs the blanket and pulls it over their naked bodies before scooting closer to where Lu Han is. He wraps an arm around the smaller’s bare waist and pulls him to his chest. "I love you, Lu." He kisses him on his forehead and Lu Han could only sigh in response, too exhausted to do nor say anythingback.
"What time are you supposed to get back?"Sehun asks.
"Hm, I should be on my way at around seven."
Sehun glances at the wall clock and smiles, five o'clock. "We still have plenty of time. Want another round?"
Lu Han groans, "Sehun, I couldn't even move my body and you're asking for more?"
"Hey, it's not my fault I missed you so bad." He pouts, brushing his fingers through Lu Han's hair. "And I cannot believe you're worn out already. We used to do this so much, hyung."
"Shut up."
"Or maybe you're just out of practice. Three weeks of being a dry spell made you lose all your stamina,"Sehun laughs.
"Sehun-ah, I swear to God---"
"But, hyung, a few more practice and you'll regain your strength so just don't give up---"
"I told you to shut up!" Lu Han growled and rolled on top of the younger, making the latter laugh in delight as the brunette man peppers him with kisses all over his face. "You're challenging your hyung, Sehun-ah?"
"Will you accept the challenge--- oh~"Sehun moaned when Lu Han sucks on his sweet spot just below the mole on his neck and he doesn't stop him. Unlike Lu Han, Sehun wants those love bites and he doesn't have to hide them to anyone.
Lu Han lowers himself after a few minutes, taking special attention onSehun's collarbones until his lips brush on the blonde's nipple.
"H-hyung..."
"Shh, Sehun-ah. Let me pleasure you."
Sehun grips his shoulders as Lu Han starts his ministrations on his chest and he couldn't help but buck his hips in pleasure. He could feel himself getting hard again. Lu Han then goes to kiss his nipple and Sehun runs his hand up and down his hyung's smooth back, accidentally digging his nail on it when the older bit him hard.
Just as when Lu Han is kissing his stomach, a phone rings, and Lu Han recognizes it as his so he started to pull away from Sehun to get it, it might be important, but Sehun stops him. "Hyung, please."
"Sehun-ah, I have to get that. It might be business. Be right back quick." He then kisses the pouting young man on the lips before stumbling out of bed in all his naked glory, looking for his pants scattered somewhere on the floor. Lu Han finds it just by the bedroom door and quickly fumbles inside the front pocket to retrieve his phone.
Looking at the screen, he gulps before sliding the button. Miyoung is calling.
"Hello?"
"Han?"Miyoung's soft voice says on the other line. "What time are you going home?"
"Around eight maybe? Is there a problem?"
"No, there's none. I just thought you'll be home for dinner so I asked."
"Oh," Lu Han sighs, a bit relief. "Don't wait for me and go eat. I might take long since it's rush hour."
"Alright," Miyoung says, a little too brightly. "Drive safely."
"Okay," Lu Han waits for her to hang up first, listening to her breathe.
"Lu Han?"
"Yeah?"
"I... I, um.Nothing. Just be safe." And then the line got cut. Lu Han shrugs before going back to Sehun, who's now curled up on a ball, hugging a pillow tightly to his chest.
"Sehun-ah,"he coos, lying beside Sehun, his chest to the younger's back, and wrapping an arm around his slim waist. Lu Han buries his face on his nape, loving Sehun's scent.
"Are you going now?"Sehun asks quietly, still not facing him.
"I still have an hour or so. Do you want to grab some food before I go?"
"Aren't you having dinner with your wife? That's why she called, right?" Jealousy leaks in Sehun's voice that he doesn’t even bother hiding it and Lu Han has to bit his lower lip to prevent himself from smiling.
"Were you eavesdropping?"
"No,"Sehun is quick to deny. "It's not like you went far that I couldn't hear. You were just standing right there."
Lu Han chuckles, finding Sehun's hand to intertwine with his own."To answer your question, yes, that's the reason why she called but no, I'm not having dinner with her. I declined. I thought I want to eat with you."
"Okay. I want to eat you, too."
"Sehun, no---"
"Too late, hyung,"he says, rolling on top of Lu Han once again.
"Seriously, instant ramen?" asks Lu Han, as he watches Sehun prepare their dinner in the kitchen.
"Not just instant ramen. Instant ramen with eggs,"Sehun smiles, cracking said eggs in the boiling pot of ramen.
"Ooh, special."
"You wanted to eat dinner with me, hyung. And this is all I can prepare in such a short time left. You need to go in thirty minutes."
He scowls at the blonde. "Well, if you weren't so horny, I could have cooked us a decent meal."
"You like horny me, don't deny it,"Sehun winks at him before turning back to the pot, and Luhan wants nothing more than to kick his fine, fine ass for being so cocky.
Once the ramen are all gone, Lu Han starts fixing himself, pulling on his pants and shirt that Sehun lent him, a similar one to his ripped one. He combs his messy hair with his fingers in front of Sehun's vanity and pats his cheeks a bit. He's still flushed from the entire love making, and he hopes Miyoung won't notice his intense afterglow.
"I'll walk you to your car, hyung."
Lu Han nods and the both of them get out of the pad and into the elevator again. Sehun holds his hand during the ride and he doesn't pull away until the doors open and they are in the parking lot. Lu Han clicks on the button of his car keys and his Audi lit up. They silently walk to the driver's side, but before Lu Han could even open the door, Sehun has him pressed on the car, kissing him hard on the lips.
The two are breathless when they pull away, Sehun running his thumb on the older's cheek and staring deep into his eyes, loneliness clearly written on his own. "I miss you already, Lu Han hyung."
Lu Han buries his face on his lover's chest, arms wounding tight around his slim waist.
"When can I see you again?"Sehun asks.
"I don't know, Sehun-ah," he answers truthfully against his shirt. "I'll call you, okay?"
"I hate this situation. We were free back then, what happened now?"
"I'm so sorry."
Sehun kisses his forehead before letting him go. "Just promise me you'll call, okay?"
"Promise."
"Go now, hyung. If you stay longer I wouldn't be able to let you go and just lock you up in my room," he jokes.
"Good night, Sehun-ah." Lu Han brushes his lips against his one more time before opening the door of his car and climbing in. Sehun gently slams the door shut for him. Lu Han rolled the window down from the inside and smile at the younger. "I'll see you soon."
Sehun reaches forward and caresses his cheek. "Okay. I love you, hyung." He steps back from the car and Lu Han starts the engine. "I love you, too, Sehun."
With a final wave, Lu Han drives off, not closing his window until he gets out of the parking lot and until Sehun is out of sight.
His heart feels heavy. He misses his Sehun already. He doesn't know, not even sure when he can meet him again. But he's sure he will sooner or later. All he had to do for now is to go back to reality, to where his wife is waiting for him, to go back home. But Lu Han isn't happy.
Sehun is his home.
~~
Miyoung places the last batch of food container inside the now crowded fridge, heaving out a sigh as she closes its door.
She did it; she cooked a fancy dinner for her and her husband to have together, only to be disappointed yet again. She prepared the meal early, having a half day at the office just so she could cook delicious meals for Lu Han, humming to herself as she chopped the vegetables and prepared the ingredient. She even baked a little custard cake for dessert.
Miyoung then phoned Lu Han when she was done by five, not really sure where he went for his text message that afternoon only told her that he has a business meeting to attend to somewhere downtown so she didn't bother him anymore. But then Lu Han was brief in their phone conversation, and even told her not to wait for him and eat first. It broke her heart, really. She was excited the whole day, thinking that she could spend some quality time with him. When they got back from their "honeymoon", she and Lu Han immediately went back to work in their respective companies, fixing papers and attending endless meetings. The official day of their merger is coming and there's just so much to do that they barely get to talk about their personal lives or even have time for themselves, not even at home.
When Lu Han told her he is gay, Miyoung didn't know how to react at first. She was shocked, and more over, heartbroken. The man she loves isn't completely a man after all. Miyoung was cold to him the whole time they were in Jeju, ignoring him and all. But before they got on the plane going back to Seoul three days later, Lu Han talked to her, rather forced her to listen. He wanted them to go back to what they have before she knew; he wanted them to maintain friendship, civil to each other. He made her promise not to tell everyone, and being the lovesick puppy that she is; she melted and agreed. She is in love with him after all.
"Don't wait for me and go eat. I might take long since it's rush hour." He had said, his tone curt, somewhat cold.
"Alright, drive safely," she willed her voice to be stable and cheerful
"Okay."
She was supposed to hang up then, but she just wanted to tell him another thing. "Lu Han?"
"Yeah?"
"I... I, um.Nothing. Just be safe." And she tapped the end button. She had wanted to say she loves him but cat got her tongue first. She is such a coward sometimes.
Miyoung also thinks she is a martyr.
She knows so damn well that Lu Han will never love her the way she wanted him to. He cares for her, she knows that. But only like a friend, a best friend, or maybe like his little sister, but nothing more than that. He will never have any romantic feelings for Miyoung. But Miyoung is so hopeless. It doesn't stop her from loving him.
It started when they were ten years old. Young Lu Han was brought by the Lus when Miyoung's parents invited them over for dinner when they visited South Korea. It was the time Lu Han and Miyoung were formally introduced to each other. Miyoung knew him from newspapers and internet of course, the sole heir to Lu Corp's multimillion dollar wealth. Her mother often tells her stories about the Lus, too. Same goes for Lu Han. Although Lu Han saw her first in a youtube video where she was playing a flute in front of her school. It was her first recital.
Ten year-old Miyoung was delighted to have visitors coming over. She didn't have visitors often aside from her playmate Taeyeon, the daughter of her father's Ophthalmologist, and her private tutors. She picked a cute pink balloon dress with a white bow at the back for the occasion, with matching pink doll shoes. She asked her mother to brush her hair and tie it in a half ponytail with a white ribbon to match the one on her dress.
When the Lus arrived, Miyoung greeted them with her parents by the door. She immediately smiled upon seeing the family, her eyes disappearing in pretty crescent shapes.
After exchanging pleasantries, Mrs. Lu bowed down to match little Miyoung's height and purrs in her accented Korean, "aigoo, this pretty baby. You'll grow up into a beautiful, graceful lady, I'm sure of it." She patted Miyoung's cheek twice before looking behind her. "Lu Han, honey, come here and introduce yourself to this young lady."
That was when she really saw him, like looked at him, and Miyoung felt a sudden surge of happiness rushed in her body and straight to her heart. She has never been this happy in seeing a boy.
Lu Han stepped forward, a shy smile lingering across his baby face and Miyoung returned it with an eyesmile of her own. The boy bowed in front of her and she did the same.
"Hello, I am Lu Han. Nice to meet you."Miyoung giggled upon hearing his voice. It's beautiful, like those of the cherubs, soft and soothing. She studied her newfound friend, he was small, just the same height as her. He was wearing white short sleeves polo with a blue polka dots vest over it, a navy blue bow tie, and a pair of shorts. His shoes were white little Converse sneakers and he had on a beige fedora hat. His hair was curly, and it framed his chubby, rosy cheeks well. He has a cute button like nose, pale pink ribbon shaped lips, but his eyes, Miyoung became happier when she looked at his eyes. His eyes are like that of the deer she watched on Disney Channel, just like Bambi. They were so pretty.
"You are so cute!" The little girl giggled, covering her mouth with her hand as if she was suddenly shy. The parents heard her and laughed at her innocent statement. She heard something about them looking good for each other, and it will be a successful marriage. She didn't understand them so she didn't pay any attention. Her eyes were only set to the little boy who's eyeing her curiously.
"Do you like pink?" Lu Han had asked when they were all seated on the huge table, a feast served in front of them.
Miyoung smiled and dropped her utensils to turn to him and nod. "It's my favorite color."
"You're pretty in pink," the boy grinned, pointing at her dress.
"Thank you! Do you like blue?"
"No."
Miyoung pouted.
"You're silly. Just because I'm wearing blue doesn't mean it's my favorite," Lu Han laughed.
"What is your favorite then?"
"I like pink, too."
Miyoung clapped her hands and smiled widely, "really? We're the same! Do you want me to show you my room? Everything is pink there!" She was eager to show her friend her room that she stood up from her seat and pulled the boy's hand which startled the adults.
"Sweetheart, where are you going?" asked Mrs. Hwang.
"I'm just going to show Hanhan my room, mommy! Please excuse us!" She bows politely before running out of the dining hall with Lu Han in tow.
"My name is Lu Han, not Hanhan!" he protested while they ran hand in hand up the stairs and into Miyoung's room.
"Hanhan is cute, though. I like Hanhan!" the little girl argued.
When they reached the door to her room, she let go of his hand and looked at him. "Are you ready to see my room?"
He nodded, eyes lit up with excitement."Please show me."
Lu Han was in awe upon seeing what's inside. Everything, as in everything is pink. Different shades of pink surrounds the entire room. "Wow. You're room is so pretty."
"Thank you. Do you like it?"
Lu Han smiled and sat down on the fluffy carnation pink bed. "I do."
It was funny, Miyoung thought; how Lu Han showed signs of his sexual orientation even before they both hit puberty, and she doesn't even have a clue even after being with him for so long.
She was always with him ever since, when the Lus migrated from China to Korea and Lu Han attended the same school she's in. She's always been in love with him, and almost thought he is too, because he cares for her and is always there when she needs him. She is wrong.
Having eaten a part of the meal she had prepared, Miyoung returns to the living room and turns on the TV to watch some drama while waiting for Lu Han to come home, pulling her feet up the couch and pressing her knees to her chest so she can hug her legs with her arms. She rests her cheek on her knees, absently listening to the lead actor's monologue. She is almost dozing off when she hears the sound of the security lock beeping followed by the opening and closing of the door.
"Miyoung?"
Who else? She thinks.
"In here!" She calls anyway. Lu Han shuffles in the living room with a smile and she wants to cry because damn him he is so handsome.
"Hi," Lu Han greets and kisses the top of her head, something he's used to be doing ever since middle school. Nothing new there.
"Hello, have you had dinner?" Tiffany asks as he sits beside her.
"Yes. You? I told you to eat without me."
"I ate already."
Lu Han nods. "That's good. How's your day?"
Awful."It's fine. Same work. Same stuffs.How about you?"
His smile almost breaks Miyoung's heart. It's so beautiful. "I had a great day. However I'm a bit tired, so I hope you won't mind if I retire first."
"No problem,"Miyoung answers, glad that he had a nice day compared to her. "I assume the meeting went well?"
Lu Han's smile falters for a second but it is too fast for the girl to notice. He grins, "It went very well." He stands up from his seat and starts walking out of the room. "Good night, Miyoung. Don't stay up late, 'kay? You still have work tomorrow."
"Sure. Good night, Hanhan."
Lu Han laughs lightly at the nickname before waving at her one last time and disappearing out the door. Miyoung listens to his footsteps on the stairs until she hears him close his room's door. "I love you, Hanhan."
She waits for another half hour before turning off all the appliances downstairs and double checking the locks on the door. She dims the light and heads up the stairs, opening the door to her own room. Yes, they have separate rooms, both adjacent to each other, aside from the master's bedroom they keep for pretend just in case their parents visit them or any other visitors. No one should know about their relationship and about Lu Han's secret so they need to keep a facade.
Everything seems to be a facade in this relationship, Miyoung thinks bitterly.
--
"Ma said they'll meet us at the gala."
Miyoung nods, fixing her bracelet on her left wrist as Lu Han drives carefully in the busy street of Seoul one evening. They are on their way to a charity ball held by one of the Lu Corp's business partners. It was a formal evening gala, where everyone is expected to wear suits and tie and beautiful long gowns.
An elegant one-shoulder black dress adorns Miyoung's body, it was a gown customized for her, floor-length dress that sparkles every time she moves. A slit was made just by the middle of her right thigh, showing off her milky white skin. Lu Han frowned at that when he saw it, but didn't say a thing. He could be protective sometimes, and Miyoung likes that a lot. Her hair is fixed in a bun with a silver hairpin with lots of Swarovski crystals tucked in it. A silver Prada clutch bag and Jimmy Choos complete her look.
She gazes at Lu Han. "You look really dashing tonight, Han."
He quickly glances at her before looking back at the road with a smile. "Thank you. My date is gorgeous so I better keep up."
Miyoung lets out a giggle and studies him. He's wearing a simple black suit with silver linings at the collar. He is not wearing any tie, and he lets the first two button of is white dress shirt open, a white gold necklace hanging around his neck. His hair is down, a little messy, fringe covering her forehead. He even put on light eyeliner.
All in all, he looks like a hotmodel from Esquire.
He managed to look sexy and alluring at the same time and Miyoung wanted to slit her throat and die when she first saw him out of his bedroom. She was speechless and Lu Han had to flick her forehead to get her senses back.
"They said the Byuns will be announcing Baekhyun and Taeyeon's engagement tonight. Baekhyun must be ecstatic." He grins.
"Really?"Miyoung says, amused. "Taeyeon didn't mention anything to me, I'm sad."
"It was a sudden decision. There's a rumor that the innocent puppy knocked up Taeyeon. It would be a disgrace to the families, especially when they aren't married yet."
"What?!"
"The keyword is rumor, Myeong."Lu Han laughs.
Miyoung blushes at the nickname. It's been a while since he called her that and she feels her heart bursting.
"I-- I'm going to talk to Taeyeon later then. To confirm things."
Lu Han shrugs.
They arrive at the venue ten minutes later. The valets open the door for them and Lu Han hands the valet boy his car keys. He saunters gracefully to where Miyoung is waiting for him, and holds out his arm for her to loop hers. They exchanged pleasantries to the people they know, most of them businessmen, some are social elites and politicians. Miyoung spots Taeyeon somewhere, she's wearing a red gown making her stand out but she disappears quickly and Miyoung lose her from her sight.
"How is the merger doing, Mr. And Mrs. Lu?" An old businessman asks, and if Miyoung isn't wrong, his name is Mr. Lee, owner of one of the huge entertainment company that produces big stars in the country.
"It's doing well, thanks for asking." Lu Han says with a smile. "It will take place three weeks for now so everything is a tad bit hectic than usual."
Miyoung nods and Mr. Lee smiles at her, "you look so beautiful, Mrs. Lu. I see marriage is doing the both of you good."
The couple laughs and Miyoung says, "thank you and I guess it does. Anyway, Mr. Lee, I'd like to invite you in another party, it's to celebrate the merging of our companies. It will take place a day after the merger. Formal invitation will be sent, of course."
"Charming. I'd love to go."
"That's great,"Miyoungsays,eyesmile in display. "You know, Mr. Lee, your entertainment is doing so well right now. Congratulations on your new artist's debut. I love JeonJungkook. He's a great singer."
"Ah, yes. He's a good kid. Would you like me to bring him on the party? He can perform for the night."
Miyoung let out a tiny squeal, "that'd be great Mr. Lee! I'd love that."
"Okay then. Make him your special guest."
"Certainly."
A few more exchanges and Mr. Lee excuse himself to catch up with his old buddy, Mr. Yang. Lu Han has an amused smile when he facesMiyoung. "That was very smooth, Mrs. Lu."
"That's how you do business." Lu Han chuckles when Miyoung winks at him.
"I cannot believe he was fooled by your eyesmile. I think he has pedo tendencies," Lu Han sips on his champagne.
"Don't be like that. It's all about the charms."The charms that doesn't seem to work on you.
Lu Han is about to retort but his phone beeps. He reads the message quickly before tucking the phone back on his suit's front pocket. "Ma and Ba are here. Let's find them."
The couple walks to the entrance, bumping every now and then to people they had to greet. Just then they saw a middle-aged couple. They both look elegant.
When Miyoung and Lu Han reachthem, Mrs. Lu immediately had her arms around Miyoung, ignoring his son who decided to hug his father instead.
"Our Miyoung! You look so beautiful, as always. I miss you so much, darling!" the old woman says while hugging her.
"I miss you too, Mama. How's everything?"
"Everything's fine, darling.You're taking care of yourself, right?"
"Ma, I'm your son!" Lu Han says, pouting like a child.
They all laugh at his childish act and Mrs. Lu kisses his son's cheeks. Miyoung walks to Mr. Lu, who's a fairly quiet man, to place a soft kiss on the old man’s cheek as well, "hi, Ba."
The two couples walk to the soirees and grab some drinks again before catching up. Lu Han crosses his arms when he sees her mother clinging to his wife.
"So, Miyoung, have you been having cravings yet?"
Miyoung's eyes widen and Lu Han chokes on his champagne. His father pats his back to help.
Miyoung laughs nervously. "Not yet, ma. I guess it's too early for that."
Mrs. Lu scowls at her son, akimbo. "Well, what are you two waiting for? Hurry up and give me grandchildren! Your folks aren't getting any younger!"
"Ma, it's not like that. Lu Han and I want to take our time on this."
Lu Han nods, "Miyoung and I are on family planning. You have to wait for another two years for your grandchildren."
"Two years?"Mrs. Lu exclaimed. "Two years! That's just outrageous, young man!"
"Mother, please."
Trying to convince the old woman that grandchildren can wait is surely hard but they had managed. Dinner was served after a while. Soon the Byuns clink their glasses as they stand on the huge staircase of the hall to have the guests' attention.
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen, I hope you are having a wonderful time tonight," Mr. Byun, Baekhyun's father, starts. "We are very thankful for your generous donations to our charity and we appreciate that you are willing to share an amount of your wealth for a good cause. So far we have raised the charity fund to $130,000.00, and more of you are still donating so for that, thank you very much."
The guests applaud, and Mr. Byun holds up a hand with a gentle smile on his face to stop them. "We are also pleased that you are here with us to celebrate a huge event in our family. We are here to formally announce the engagement of my second son to his beautiful partner, Miss Kim Taeyeon, daughter of the respected Dr. Kim."
Another round of applause and the said couple greet the crowd with bows and smiles. A few more speeches are made and the people start greeting the two in person. Lu Han and Miyoung take their time to approach then and when it's their turn they immediately start teasing each other.
"Ya, Kim Taeyeon. You're making the biggest mistake in your life!" Lu Han says and Baekhyun punches him on the shoulder. Taeyeon just laughs at him.
"Well, I bet Miyoung is regretting everything now. Tell me, Hwang, is he giving you a hard time?"
"Lu is the name, Baek. And no, I'm the most perfect husband!"
Miyoung snorts and Taeyeon laughs again but the former interrupted them, "excuse us boys, we'll just have our girl talk for a while."
"Take your time."
Miyoung pulls the shorter girl in a corner before giving her a hug. "Congratulations, Taeng."
"Thanks, Miyoung."
"I'm upset, you didn't tell me anything."
"Everything happened so fast, I'm so sorry."
"So I assume the rumor is true?"Miyoungasks, tone slightly low and serious.
"Rumor?"
Miyoung sighs, "Lu Han just told me earlier when we were driving here. Rumor has it that you're pregnant with Baekhyun's child."
Biting her lower lip, Taeyeon nods. "I guess it would be in vain if I ask you to keep it a secret since it seems like everyone knows but we aren't confirming anything."
"Oh, Taeyeon."Miyoung hugs her friend before pulling away and patting her cheek. "When did you realize you are ..."
"Just three weeks ago, it was after your wedding. I got really dizzy but Baek said I collapsed so he brought me to the hospital. Then the doctor told us. I'm two months pregnant."
Miyoung's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "That's... That's wonderful! Can I be the godmother?"
"By default!"
The two giggles, but Miyoung turns serious again. "Taeng, are you... Are you serious about Baekhyun?"
"What do you mean?"
"I mean... Like, are you sure he isn't hiding something from you?"
"Like what?"
"I don't know."
"I'm sure he's not, Miyoung. And I love him so I've never been so sure of anything."
"Okay," she nods. "Be happy."
"Is there a problem between you and Lu Han?"
"No there is none."
Taeyeon rolls her eyes, "you know I can tell when you're lying, Miyoung."
"I wish I could tell you,"saysMiyoung mournfully.
This time, it is Taeyeon who hugs the girl. "Whatever it is, it will be okay soon. I'm sure of it."
I doubt it, Miyoung thought.
~~
Two months into Lu Han and Miyoung's marriage and nothing has changed. They're still friends. Miyoung stopped trying to change that. She eventually got tired but that doesn't mean she stopped loving him too.
It is half past eight and Miyoung just arrived at their house. She is tired and she hasn’t even finished half of her work even if she had overtime. There are just too many things to do, but lots of work means the business is doing well so she is not complaining.
She lies down on the couch, prompting up her feet on the armrest and turning the TV on. She haven't had eaten yet and thinks of what she would have for delivery. She did not repeat that mistake of cooking dinner for Lu Han again since the man preferred take outs or delivery and sometimes when he gets home, he has already eaten.
Miyoung is just about to call Lu Han to ask what he likes for dinner since she cannot decide on it when she receives a call from him.
"Hey," she answers.
"Where are you?"
"Just got home."
"Have you eaten yet?"
"No, I was just about to ask you what you want. I'm calling for delivery."
"Oh, just buy for yourself. I already ate out. I'm still at the office."
"When are you going to be home?"
"I might stay out and won't be back until tomorrow."
"Tomorrow is Tuesday. You have work."
"Yeah, I'll be home in the morning to change."
Miyoung sighs, "take care then."
"Alright, see you later. Good night." Lu Han hangs up without waiting for her reply.
She pouts while looking at the screen, a photo of her and Lu Han as wallpaper. "Stupid! Stupid! Stupid deer!"
After finishing her BigMac and fries, she heads to her room to retire. When she is lying down on her bed, she browses on her phone's camera roll where she keeps a folder of their wedding photos' soft copies. She looks at then until she fallsasleep, eyes tearing up in reasons she does not really know nor understand.
~~
"I'll be staying in Osaka for two weeks."
"Hm~" Lu Han hums against Sehun's neck. He brushes his fingers up and down the man's bare back as he sucks on the delicate skin.
"Lu Han."Sehun pushes him away gently and cups his small face with his hands. "We need to talk."
"I miss you, Sehun-ah," Lu Han pouts like a kid.
Sehun laughs and gently presses a kiss on his pouty lips. "I miss you too, hyung. But we need to talk."
"Okay, then. Talk."
"Hyung~" the younger whines when Lu Han starts tracing circles on his chest, distracting him. "Seriously, hyung. This is important."
"Fine," Lu Han plops on the bed and covers himself with the sheet up to his nose. "Shoot."
Sehun remains sitting, playing with Lu Han's locks. "I'll be staying in Osaka for two weeks," he repeats.
Lu Han nods, "I heard you the first time." He catches Sehun's hand and intertwines their fingers together.
"Well, you didn't seem like you were listening. Anyway, it's a Physics convention so I can't miss it. I'll be with a few of the faculties in our department."
"Do I know any of them?"
Sehun shrugs, "most of them are new, but you know Jongin, the guy I introduced to you before."
"Yeah, I remember him. Tall, dark, handsome."
Sehun glares at him, and Lu Han giggles.
"So I would not be able to see you during that time. But we could always Skype right? Or you can Line me anytime. International sms and calls are costly so we need to stick to Wi-Fi,"Sehun jokes.
"Of course, keep in contact, okay, Sehun-ah."
"Always, hyung."
Lu Han smiles, the kind of smile he uses to Sehun when he wants something and the younger gulps. Lu Han has his index finger trailing down Sehun's collarbones to his stomach making him shiver. "So I was saying,"says Lu Han, voice rather sultry. "I miss you, Sehun-ah."
"Uhh..."
"And... let me top tonight." With that, Lu Han lunges forward to tackle Sehun down on the bed, kissing him all over his face. Sehun let out a hearty laugh and wraps his arms around the shorter's naked waist.
"Okay, hyung."
~~
Sehun did not contact him when he was in Japan. Not even once. Lu Han can't help but worry. What if something happened to him, Lu Han has no way of knowing. He tries being optimistic, like thinking maybe Sehun lost his phone, or there isn’t any internet access that's why he couldn't even leave him a short email.
It left Lu Han cranky for the rest of the week, and it is unfortunate for the innocent housemate he has, Miyoung who seemed to beat the receiving end of his anger and frustrations.
"Miyoung! How many times do I need to tell you not to leave dirty plates on the sink?" he yells in the kitchen.
"I'll do it later! I'll just finish this episode," Miyoung's muffled reply comes.
It is a Saturday; both of them got their rest day until tomorrow so it's normal that Miyoung's catching up to her dramas. Lu Han slams the door of the fridge after getting his Red Bull.
"Do it now! Or there'll be ants crawling everywhere here."
"Fifteen minutes!"
Lu Han stomps inside the living room, grabs the remote control and turns off the TV. Miyoung sits up on the couch while glaring at him. "What the hell?"
"Do your dishes. Now."
"It's just one plate, Lu Han!"
"Exactly! Just one plate and you can't even do it right after you ate!"
"Why are you so mad over the dishes? God."
"I'm mad because you're so lazy!"
Miyoung grits her teeth. "I work eight hours a day, sometimes more, five days a week. You cannot call me lazy."
"Well, if you're not one then you won't slack off in things such as doing one plate."
"What is wrong with you?"Miyoung stands up and shoves him away, marching upstairs and slamming her bedroom door shut.
"Shit, she didn't even do--- fuck." He mutters before going inside the kitchen and doing the damned plate himself.
Evening came, and Lu Han still keeps on glancing at his phone to check for any message but there is none. It's quarter to seven when Miyoung comes down to the living room. Miyoung gives him the cold shoulder and flops down on the farthest side of the couch with her earphones plug in her ears.
Lu Han sighs, thinking of the best way to apologize for being an ass to her earlier.
"Miyoung?" He calls. No response.
"Myeong?Yah." Still no response.
Lu Han crawls on the couch to get closer to her before pulling her left earphone out. He flinches when Miyoung glared at him and he could only smile timidly.
"Hey."
Miyoung didnot answer, only keeping her glare on him.
"Uh...” he gulps, “What do you want for dinner?"
When he receives no answer again he decides to step up his game a bit. "Look, Myeong. I'm sorry for being a jerk earlier. I shouldn't have done that. It was mean. I apologize. Forgive me, please?"
"Just because you're acting cute doesn't mean I'll forgive you instantly."
"Aw, come on! I pulled my best aegyo face! You could at least accept my apology!" Lu Han pouts some more, but he knows the worst is over.
Miyoung shakes her head.
"Fine, dinner's on me tonight. What do you want? I'll call McDonald's. Or your favorite sushi house. Come on, anything you want." Lu Han waves his phone at her with a grin.
Miyoung seems to contemplate something, "alright..."
Lu Han perks up, ready to take her order. Or orders.
"Cook for me tonight."
"What?!" Lu Han gapes at her.
"Cook for me. You said anything I want. I want you to cook for me."
Thinking that arguing won't do him good, Lu Han shrugs."Fine, then. What do you want?"
Miyoung smiles."Curry ramen!"
"Tch. Easy."
An hour later, a hot bowl of curry ramen is served in front of an excited Miyoung sitting at the dining table. "Jalmoketsumnida!"
Lu Han looks at her, anticipating her review. But Miyoung does not say anything and only keep on eating until she finished her bowl with a slurping sound.
He blinks, "how was it?"
"So so."
"So so?So so?" Lu Han says in disbelief. "I made that with all of my heart and soul and you're just saying it tastes so so? Where's the justice in that?"
"Wow, you are so dramatic."
"Come on, how is it?" he asks again as Miyoung walks to the kitchen sink and washes the dish. Lu Han follows her.
"You shouldn't have asked me if you cannot accept my answer."Miyoung dries her hands after and heads out of the kitchen and on the way to the stairs. Lu Han follows her like a puppy behind.
"Just tell me if it's delicious or not."
Miyoung abruptly stops and turns to face him. His body almost collided with hers. Miyoung laughs.
"It's delicious, Hanhan. Thank you." She then leans forward and tiptoes while placing her hand on his shoulder. She kisses Lu Han's cheek. "Good night."
And then she runs up the stairs and Lu Han just hears her bedroom door shuts. He shakes his head while smiling as he walks up to his room.
Lu Han feels so sad for Miyoung. He knows how the girl feels about him. He isn't that dense. But he couldn't do anything because he just doesn't love her that way. He just couldn't. His heart would always belong to Sehun. He wishes that Miyoung will find her happiness someday. Hell he will let her have a boyfriend of her own if that would make her happy. They're living in a sin already, might as well live it to the fullest.
Sehun did not contact him that night. And Lu Han sleeps with a heavy heart.
(2/4)
Pairings: Lu Han & Tiffany (Miyoung) | Lu Han & Sehun
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: MaleXMale; Adultery; Rape
Description
In which Lu Han is married to Miyoung,
Sehun is seeing Lu Han,
And Miyoung is just hopelessly in love.
~
“Do you trust me?”
“Yes. I do trust you.”
“I don’t think I could give you the proper honeymoon tonight.”
“I’m not sure if I understand…”
“And I don’t think I could give you what you want either. For that, I am sorry.”
Chapter One
Miyoung breathes out, carefully studying herself one last time in front of the bathroom mirror before going out and into the bedroom of their hotel suite.
She is no longer Hwang Miyoung, but rather Mrs. Lu. She chuckles before frowning at her reflection. That sounds old. But she guesses it's the perks of having been married; to the man she loves no less, so she doesn't regret anything.
Tonight is their first night as wife and husband, she and Lu Han. The wedding ceremony earlier in the afternoon took place in an elegant hall somewhere in Seoul, with their families and friends as witnesses to them being one. It was then followed by reception, a festive banquet with delicious finger foods and overflowing drinks, accompanied by beautiful music to complete the perfect and romantic ambience of the event.
To some of the guests, it was a marriage brought by love between two beautiful people, a match made in heaven so they say. They look perfect together, perfect for each other. Both are from well-off families, both are highly educated, blessed with good looks and manners. Really, the word perfect seemed so apt for the newly wedded couple.
But what they did not know is it being a facade. A business transaction made by two companies to strengthen and solidify their positions in the business world, giving them the power of one venture that any business in Seoul and Beijing would pale in comparison. It is all just a mask.
Only the families of both parties knew about the real reason behind the merger; the public knows that the wedding happened because Lu Han and Miyoung wanted to settle down after fifteen years of friendship and two years of being in an exclusive relationship as boyfriend and girlfriend. Everyone knows they are both deeply, madly and truly in love. They are aware that, yes, the Lu Corporation will now be merged with Hwang Industries, since Lu Han and Miyoung are both heirs to said companies and it is only beneficial to do so. Little did they know that the two have been arranged to be married even before they could walk and be introduced to one another when they were young. It was somewhat cruel of their parents, but cruelty has been set aside for power to take its place.
However, everything is different for Miyoung.
She is, in fact, deeply, madly and truly in love with Lu Han.
Smiling at her own reflection, Miyoung turns to saunter out of the door, ready to face her husband. She has prepared for this, with her beautiful white, silk night gown that accentuates her figure and hair brushed to perfection; she walked to where Lu Han sits. He is lounging out in the balcony of their room, enjoying the peaceful night and the summery breeze Jeju Island has to offer. They have chosen the place because it is near the capital, as compared to Prague where Miyoung originally planned for their honeymoon. Besides, the island is beautiful enough and it offers many things for them to do. But now, Miyoung has to focus on the man sitting in front of her holding a cup of coffee in one hand and a phone on the other. He doesn't seem to notice her arrival.
"Hey," she greets, sitting beside him with a smile.
Lu Han looks up, surprised written on his face but it is immediately replaced with a warm smile. "Hey back."
Miyoung doesn't know what to say, words leaving her upon seeing his smile, his doe eyes twinkling like the stars in the night sky above them.
"How are you feeling?" Lu Han asks, putting down his coffee and phone on the table beside the black couch.
"I'm fine," she answers, voice small.
"Hm," Lu Han hums. "You're so beautiful earlier in the ceremony. Have I told you that?"
She turns her face to him before smiling weakly, butterflies fluttering in her stomach. "I guess you have. When we met at the altar, you whispered."
"Ah, right," he chuckles and his eyes crinkled at the sides. Miyoung wants to smooth them with her fingers. "I almost forgot. But really, you are the most beautiful girl in the room. I'm not sorry to my mom."
"Thank you. You weren't so bad yourself." It was an understatement, Miyoung knows that for sure. If anything, Lu Han looked like an angel in his white three-pieced suit with his hair pushed back and a constant smile plastered on his small, handsome face.
Comfortable silence veils upon them, and no one speaks for quite some time, contented with enjoying the view in front of them. The sea, albeit dark, looks so serene, waves gently splashing and covering the shore. The moon is reflected on the water along with millions of stars. Despite the season being a summer, there's not much people out, or maybe because they are staying in an exclusive resorts where people opted to rest in their own suites and have business meetings inside the luxurious dining hall below. Or maybe because it is thirty minutes beforemidnight and most guests are already asleep.
"Miyoung?"
She jumps a little on her seat upon hearing his quiet voice and Miyoung looks questioningly at him.
Lu Han clears his throat before asking, "Do you trust me?"
Taken aback by his randomness, Miyoung just bobs her head.
"Do you, really?" He asks again.
"Yes, Lu Han. I do trust you."
Lu Han scoots closer to her and held her hands, and Miyoung is suddenly nervous. Is this it? She asks herself.
But what Lu Han said answered her question, and it wasn't the answer she was expecting to hear from him.
"I don't think I could give you the proper honeymoon tonight." Lu Han is looking at her, right in her eyes and she could see the honesty in his expression.
"I'm not sure if I understand..."
"And I don't think I could give you what you want either. For that, I am sorry."
"Lu Han," she starts saying but Lu Han squeezes her hands so she stops.
"I asked you if you trust me, you said you do. So I am going to tell you this, since you have been very dear to me and a good friend to me, you're practically my best friend," Lu Han smiles and she returns it gladly. "And also becauseyou have the right to know, with you being my wife and all."Miyoung swears her heart stopped beating for a second when he said that.
"What is it, Han?"
The young man sighs and suddenly he doesn't look young, and when Miyoung says he doesn't look young, she means he isn't like a 17 year-old like the usual. Lu Han looks like his age, 25, burdened with stress and responsibilities. He bites his lower lip, hesitant and Miyoung encourages him to say what's bothering him by pressing on his hand.
"Promise me you won't judge. Or be disgusted. Promise me," Lu Han says, desperate.
"Are you sick?"Miyoung concludes, and she suddenly worries for her husband's well-being. Is that why he cannot make love to her? Because he is sick and he might contaminate her with his disease? It's the only reason she could come up with.
"No," he shakes his head. "It's not like that."
"Then what?"
"I'm... My sexual preference, it's different... Different than normal," Lu Han finally says in a low voice.
Miyoung blinks up at him, eyebrows furrowed in confusion. Is he perhaps saying...?
"Lu Han," she says cautiously. "Are you saying you are gay?"
Luhan swallows the lump in his throat, thanking her in his mind for picking up so quickly.
"Yes," he answers, this time with his voice loud and clear. "Yes, Miyoung. I am gay."
~~
Lu Han fidgets on his seat, hands atop the table and playing on his phone, waiting for a text message that doesn't seem to come.
Where the hell are you?
He texted and sent it, sipping on his coffee after. He's been sitting at his table at the secluded area of the fancy restaurant in downtown Seoul and his impatience is brewing by the minute because the person he's supposed to meet is thirty minutes late already.
Almost there.
The reply was brief, but it was promising so Lu Han relaxes a little. He runs his fingers through his dark hair, fixing the collar of his white long sleeves shirtand dusting off his black jeans. He makes sure that the first two button of his shirt is open and his milky white skin shows in a teasing manner.
"I'm sorry I took so long." A hand on his shoulder brushes quickly and it is gone, and Lu Han recognizes the touch like the back of his hand. Oh Sehun's deep voice resonates through his ear and it gives off a calming effect on him. He smiles as the gorgeous man takes his seat across from him, removing his sunglasses before casually grabbing Lu Han's cup of coffee and sipping on it like it's a normal thing to do.
"You're late," Lu Han says, glaring at the man wearing black polo shirt that shows off his broad shoulders.
"I know and I'm sorry. Traffic was so bad that I got stuck,"Sehun smiles apologetically at him.
Lu Han shrugs, reaching back for his coffee and drinking on it.
"How was your honeymoon? Did you enjoy counting sheep for three days?"Sehun asks him, a playful grin plastered on his face.
Lu Han snorts, "shut up. I had fun."
"Oh,"Sehun's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Did you perhaps do your lovely wife?"
"Oh Sehun, please. Don't say disgusting things like that."
Sehun cackles and grabs his hand. Lu Han glances around the room, grateful that no one is looking. "You know," the younger man starts, "I've missed you so bad. Maybe I could do you now?"
"God, Sehun. You are so promiscuous."
"Promiscuous?"Sehun scoffs. "You've just been living with Miyoung for two weeks and already you got her wide vocabulary? What's next? Blasphemy?Infidelity?"
"Infidelity is a good word to describe our relationship now, you know," Lu Han says timidly.
Sehun's face darkens. "What, are you feeling guilty for cheating on your wife with me now?"
"It's not like that, Sehun-ah---"
"Ha! Maybe you are. Have you developed any feelings for her now and dumped your platonic love you have for her before? Are you in love with her now? That's why you're feeling guilty?"Sehun seethed, eyes glaring at the dumbfounded man in front of him. "Just so you know, Lu Han, I got you first; technically you are cheating on me with her. I don't give a shit about a piece of paper that says you're married to her."Sehun's grip tightens on Lu Han's hand. "You're mine, Lu Han. Only mine."
He whimpers. "Sehun, you're hurting me."
"Tell me you're mine, Lu Han,"Sehun growls, holding his hand firmly.
"Yours, Sehun-ah. I'm yours. Always," Lu Han says.
"Good."
Despite Sehun's abrupt outburst, everything after that went well. They had eaten then, ordering sumptuous meals the restaurant has to offer to celebrate their reunion after almost three weeks of not seeing each other. Lu Han did not dare invite Sehun on his wedding, not that the latter wanted to go, and he was busy with his classes because the summer classes are almost coming to an end and with that comes the many exams and project deadlines.
Sehun, despite his tender age of 24, is a professor at Yonsei University, where Lu Han attended his college. Sehun teaches in the NatSci department, and he met Lu Han in one of his classes when the latter took up units in Physics. He was attracted by the man's femininity and beauty, and the moment Lu Han submitted his final paper and was out of his class, Sehun took his chance to ask him out on a date to which Lu Han gladly agreed. They were 21 and 22 then.
For four years, they have managed to hide their relationship, only going out as best friends, but when inside a room, a bedroom, they are more than friends. They are lovers.
Lu Han loves Sehun. He truly does, and it pained him when he had to break out the news to Sehun of him getting married to Miyoung. Sehun is no stranger to her, having met her several times at parties Lu Han asked him to go with, and knows about her and Lu Han's supposed relationship. Sehuncannot deny Miyoung's beauty, and would have been attracted to her if his sexual orientation is different. But Lu Han is more than enough for him, and he is in love with the man so he doesn't need anyone anymore.
"Say, you're place or mine?"Sehun asks after they've finished their meals and paid for the bill.
"You know we can't go to my house now, so the default is yours," Lu han says, wiping his mouth with napkin.
"Right,"Sehun smirks. "But I haven't been to your place, hyung."
"I'll bring you there sometime, when Miyoung is away in a business trip or something."
"What does it look like?"
"Pretty. Big rooms, fire place, garden, indoor pool. Very nice."
"Hm,"Sehun hums. "Let's go to my pad then."
The two heads out and both get in their own cars. Lu Han knows the place very well and follows Sehun out of the parking lot. Traffic is light by then and they arrive at the condominium in twenty minutes.
The ride in the lift is stuffy, with only the two of them as passengers. The tension, sexual tension, is thick that one can cut a knife through it. Lu Han's palms are sweaty and are itching to touch Sehun but he has to restrain himself for there are security cameras in the lift. The moment the elevator dings and opens, Sehun grabs Lu Han's hand and the walk fast until they reach Sehun's unit. Sehun taps the four-digit code on the security lock, 1220, and opens the door wide, pulling Lu Han inside and closing it with a loud bang.
Lu Han closes his eyes as he was pressed by the door, Sehun's body perfectly molding on his. Sehun kisses him fervently, hotly until their tongues battle for dominance. Sehun wins, of course. Sehun always wins. Lu Han gasps in the kiss when he heard a ripping sound, it is his shirt and Sehun tore it open, buttons flying everywhere.
"Shit, Sehun. How do you think will I explain this to Mi---"
"I'll lend you clothes, hyung. And please don't say her name. Her name is forbidden here,"Sehun pulls away and grabs his face to kiss his nose. "Let's forget that you're married when we are here."
"Okay," Lu Han agrees, bringing his face closer to Sehun's to kiss him again, and the younger kisses back immediately.
Sehun's kisses lower, trailing a path on Lu Han's jaw, licking and tugging on his earlobe and then down to Lu Han's neck. He presses butterfly kisses on the soft skin before latching his tongue in a spot he knows could bring pleasure to his lover. Lu Han moans, just as expected, but he pushes Sehun away. Sehun cocks his head, "why?"
"No love bites for now, Sehun-ah. I'm sorry."
"Fuck," the younger hisses.
"I can't let her see---"
"Fine!"Sehun strips him off his shirt completely before lapping on his collarbones, and soon Lu Han melted in a puddle of goo.
"I've missed you so much, hyung,"Sehun whispers, kissing the corner of Lu Han's lips as he works the latter's jeans open. "So fucking much."
An hour later, two bodies are lying on the king-sized bed, sweaty limbs entangled together and pants and contented sighs resonates across the bedroom.
Sehun grabs the blanket and pulls it over their naked bodies before scooting closer to where Lu Han is. He wraps an arm around the smaller’s bare waist and pulls him to his chest. "I love you, Lu." He kisses him on his forehead and Lu Han could only sigh in response, too exhausted to do nor say anythingback.
"What time are you supposed to get back?"Sehun asks.
"Hm, I should be on my way at around seven."
Sehun glances at the wall clock and smiles, five o'clock. "We still have plenty of time. Want another round?"
Lu Han groans, "Sehun, I couldn't even move my body and you're asking for more?"
"Hey, it's not my fault I missed you so bad." He pouts, brushing his fingers through Lu Han's hair. "And I cannot believe you're worn out already. We used to do this so much, hyung."
"Shut up."
"Or maybe you're just out of practice. Three weeks of being a dry spell made you lose all your stamina,"Sehun laughs.
"Sehun-ah, I swear to God---"
"But, hyung, a few more practice and you'll regain your strength so just don't give up---"
"I told you to shut up!" Lu Han growled and rolled on top of the younger, making the latter laugh in delight as the brunette man peppers him with kisses all over his face. "You're challenging your hyung, Sehun-ah?"
"Will you accept the challenge--- oh~"Sehun moaned when Lu Han sucks on his sweet spot just below the mole on his neck and he doesn't stop him. Unlike Lu Han, Sehun wants those love bites and he doesn't have to hide them to anyone.
Lu Han lowers himself after a few minutes, taking special attention onSehun's collarbones until his lips brush on the blonde's nipple.
"H-hyung..."
"Shh, Sehun-ah. Let me pleasure you."
Sehun grips his shoulders as Lu Han starts his ministrations on his chest and he couldn't help but buck his hips in pleasure. He could feel himself getting hard again. Lu Han then goes to kiss his nipple and Sehun runs his hand up and down his hyung's smooth back, accidentally digging his nail on it when the older bit him hard.
Just as when Lu Han is kissing his stomach, a phone rings, and Lu Han recognizes it as his so he started to pull away from Sehun to get it, it might be important, but Sehun stops him. "Hyung, please."
"Sehun-ah, I have to get that. It might be business. Be right back quick." He then kisses the pouting young man on the lips before stumbling out of bed in all his naked glory, looking for his pants scattered somewhere on the floor. Lu Han finds it just by the bedroom door and quickly fumbles inside the front pocket to retrieve his phone.
Looking at the screen, he gulps before sliding the button. Miyoung is calling.
"Hello?"
"Han?"Miyoung's soft voice says on the other line. "What time are you going home?"
"Around eight maybe? Is there a problem?"
"No, there's none. I just thought you'll be home for dinner so I asked."
"Oh," Lu Han sighs, a bit relief. "Don't wait for me and go eat. I might take long since it's rush hour."
"Alright," Miyoung says, a little too brightly. "Drive safely."
"Okay," Lu Han waits for her to hang up first, listening to her breathe.
"Lu Han?"
"Yeah?"
"I... I, um.Nothing. Just be safe." And then the line got cut. Lu Han shrugs before going back to Sehun, who's now curled up on a ball, hugging a pillow tightly to his chest.
"Sehun-ah,"he coos, lying beside Sehun, his chest to the younger's back, and wrapping an arm around his slim waist. Lu Han buries his face on his nape, loving Sehun's scent.
"Are you going now?"Sehun asks quietly, still not facing him.
"I still have an hour or so. Do you want to grab some food before I go?"
"Aren't you having dinner with your wife? That's why she called, right?" Jealousy leaks in Sehun's voice that he doesn’t even bother hiding it and Lu Han has to bit his lower lip to prevent himself from smiling.
"Were you eavesdropping?"
"No,"Sehun is quick to deny. "It's not like you went far that I couldn't hear. You were just standing right there."
Lu Han chuckles, finding Sehun's hand to intertwine with his own."To answer your question, yes, that's the reason why she called but no, I'm not having dinner with her. I declined. I thought I want to eat with you."
"Okay. I want to eat you, too."
"Sehun, no---"
"Too late, hyung,"he says, rolling on top of Lu Han once again.
"Seriously, instant ramen?" asks Lu Han, as he watches Sehun prepare their dinner in the kitchen.
"Not just instant ramen. Instant ramen with eggs,"Sehun smiles, cracking said eggs in the boiling pot of ramen.
"Ooh, special."
"You wanted to eat dinner with me, hyung. And this is all I can prepare in such a short time left. You need to go in thirty minutes."
He scowls at the blonde. "Well, if you weren't so horny, I could have cooked us a decent meal."
"You like horny me, don't deny it,"Sehun winks at him before turning back to the pot, and Luhan wants nothing more than to kick his fine, fine ass for being so cocky.
Once the ramen are all gone, Lu Han starts fixing himself, pulling on his pants and shirt that Sehun lent him, a similar one to his ripped one. He combs his messy hair with his fingers in front of Sehun's vanity and pats his cheeks a bit. He's still flushed from the entire love making, and he hopes Miyoung won't notice his intense afterglow.
"I'll walk you to your car, hyung."
Lu Han nods and the both of them get out of the pad and into the elevator again. Sehun holds his hand during the ride and he doesn't pull away until the doors open and they are in the parking lot. Lu Han clicks on the button of his car keys and his Audi lit up. They silently walk to the driver's side, but before Lu Han could even open the door, Sehun has him pressed on the car, kissing him hard on the lips.
The two are breathless when they pull away, Sehun running his thumb on the older's cheek and staring deep into his eyes, loneliness clearly written on his own. "I miss you already, Lu Han hyung."
Lu Han buries his face on his lover's chest, arms wounding tight around his slim waist.
"When can I see you again?"Sehun asks.
"I don't know, Sehun-ah," he answers truthfully against his shirt. "I'll call you, okay?"
"I hate this situation. We were free back then, what happened now?"
"I'm so sorry."
Sehun kisses his forehead before letting him go. "Just promise me you'll call, okay?"
"Promise."
"Go now, hyung. If you stay longer I wouldn't be able to let you go and just lock you up in my room," he jokes.
"Good night, Sehun-ah." Lu Han brushes his lips against his one more time before opening the door of his car and climbing in. Sehun gently slams the door shut for him. Lu Han rolled the window down from the inside and smile at the younger. "I'll see you soon."
Sehun reaches forward and caresses his cheek. "Okay. I love you, hyung." He steps back from the car and Lu Han starts the engine. "I love you, too, Sehun."
With a final wave, Lu Han drives off, not closing his window until he gets out of the parking lot and until Sehun is out of sight.
His heart feels heavy. He misses his Sehun already. He doesn't know, not even sure when he can meet him again. But he's sure he will sooner or later. All he had to do for now is to go back to reality, to where his wife is waiting for him, to go back home. But Lu Han isn't happy.
Sehun is his home.
~~
Miyoung places the last batch of food container inside the now crowded fridge, heaving out a sigh as she closes its door.
She did it; she cooked a fancy dinner for her and her husband to have together, only to be disappointed yet again. She prepared the meal early, having a half day at the office just so she could cook delicious meals for Lu Han, humming to herself as she chopped the vegetables and prepared the ingredient. She even baked a little custard cake for dessert.
Miyoung then phoned Lu Han when she was done by five, not really sure where he went for his text message that afternoon only told her that he has a business meeting to attend to somewhere downtown so she didn't bother him anymore. But then Lu Han was brief in their phone conversation, and even told her not to wait for him and eat first. It broke her heart, really. She was excited the whole day, thinking that she could spend some quality time with him. When they got back from their "honeymoon", she and Lu Han immediately went back to work in their respective companies, fixing papers and attending endless meetings. The official day of their merger is coming and there's just so much to do that they barely get to talk about their personal lives or even have time for themselves, not even at home.
When Lu Han told her he is gay, Miyoung didn't know how to react at first. She was shocked, and more over, heartbroken. The man she loves isn't completely a man after all. Miyoung was cold to him the whole time they were in Jeju, ignoring him and all. But before they got on the plane going back to Seoul three days later, Lu Han talked to her, rather forced her to listen. He wanted them to go back to what they have before she knew; he wanted them to maintain friendship, civil to each other. He made her promise not to tell everyone, and being the lovesick puppy that she is; she melted and agreed. She is in love with him after all.
"Don't wait for me and go eat. I might take long since it's rush hour." He had said, his tone curt, somewhat cold.
"Alright, drive safely," she willed her voice to be stable and cheerful
"Okay."
She was supposed to hang up then, but she just wanted to tell him another thing. "Lu Han?"
"Yeah?"
"I... I, um.Nothing. Just be safe." And she tapped the end button. She had wanted to say she loves him but cat got her tongue first. She is such a coward sometimes.
Miyoung also thinks she is a martyr.
She knows so damn well that Lu Han will never love her the way she wanted him to. He cares for her, she knows that. But only like a friend, a best friend, or maybe like his little sister, but nothing more than that. He will never have any romantic feelings for Miyoung. But Miyoung is so hopeless. It doesn't stop her from loving him.
It started when they were ten years old. Young Lu Han was brought by the Lus when Miyoung's parents invited them over for dinner when they visited South Korea. It was the time Lu Han and Miyoung were formally introduced to each other. Miyoung knew him from newspapers and internet of course, the sole heir to Lu Corp's multimillion dollar wealth. Her mother often tells her stories about the Lus, too. Same goes for Lu Han. Although Lu Han saw her first in a youtube video where she was playing a flute in front of her school. It was her first recital.
Ten year-old Miyoung was delighted to have visitors coming over. She didn't have visitors often aside from her playmate Taeyeon, the daughter of her father's Ophthalmologist, and her private tutors. She picked a cute pink balloon dress with a white bow at the back for the occasion, with matching pink doll shoes. She asked her mother to brush her hair and tie it in a half ponytail with a white ribbon to match the one on her dress.
When the Lus arrived, Miyoung greeted them with her parents by the door. She immediately smiled upon seeing the family, her eyes disappearing in pretty crescent shapes.
After exchanging pleasantries, Mrs. Lu bowed down to match little Miyoung's height and purrs in her accented Korean, "aigoo, this pretty baby. You'll grow up into a beautiful, graceful lady, I'm sure of it." She patted Miyoung's cheek twice before looking behind her. "Lu Han, honey, come here and introduce yourself to this young lady."
That was when she really saw him, like looked at him, and Miyoung felt a sudden surge of happiness rushed in her body and straight to her heart. She has never been this happy in seeing a boy.
Lu Han stepped forward, a shy smile lingering across his baby face and Miyoung returned it with an eyesmile of her own. The boy bowed in front of her and she did the same.
"Hello, I am Lu Han. Nice to meet you."Miyoung giggled upon hearing his voice. It's beautiful, like those of the cherubs, soft and soothing. She studied her newfound friend, he was small, just the same height as her. He was wearing white short sleeves polo with a blue polka dots vest over it, a navy blue bow tie, and a pair of shorts. His shoes were white little Converse sneakers and he had on a beige fedora hat. His hair was curly, and it framed his chubby, rosy cheeks well. He has a cute button like nose, pale pink ribbon shaped lips, but his eyes, Miyoung became happier when she looked at his eyes. His eyes are like that of the deer she watched on Disney Channel, just like Bambi. They were so pretty.
"You are so cute!" The little girl giggled, covering her mouth with her hand as if she was suddenly shy. The parents heard her and laughed at her innocent statement. She heard something about them looking good for each other, and it will be a successful marriage. She didn't understand them so she didn't pay any attention. Her eyes were only set to the little boy who's eyeing her curiously.
"Do you like pink?" Lu Han had asked when they were all seated on the huge table, a feast served in front of them.
Miyoung smiled and dropped her utensils to turn to him and nod. "It's my favorite color."
"You're pretty in pink," the boy grinned, pointing at her dress.
"Thank you! Do you like blue?"
"No."
Miyoung pouted.
"You're silly. Just because I'm wearing blue doesn't mean it's my favorite," Lu Han laughed.
"What is your favorite then?"
"I like pink, too."
Miyoung clapped her hands and smiled widely, "really? We're the same! Do you want me to show you my room? Everything is pink there!" She was eager to show her friend her room that she stood up from her seat and pulled the boy's hand which startled the adults.
"Sweetheart, where are you going?" asked Mrs. Hwang.
"I'm just going to show Hanhan my room, mommy! Please excuse us!" She bows politely before running out of the dining hall with Lu Han in tow.
"My name is Lu Han, not Hanhan!" he protested while they ran hand in hand up the stairs and into Miyoung's room.
"Hanhan is cute, though. I like Hanhan!" the little girl argued.
When they reached the door to her room, she let go of his hand and looked at him. "Are you ready to see my room?"
He nodded, eyes lit up with excitement."Please show me."
Lu Han was in awe upon seeing what's inside. Everything, as in everything is pink. Different shades of pink surrounds the entire room. "Wow. You're room is so pretty."
"Thank you. Do you like it?"
Lu Han smiled and sat down on the fluffy carnation pink bed. "I do."
It was funny, Miyoung thought; how Lu Han showed signs of his sexual orientation even before they both hit puberty, and she doesn't even have a clue even after being with him for so long.
She was always with him ever since, when the Lus migrated from China to Korea and Lu Han attended the same school she's in. She's always been in love with him, and almost thought he is too, because he cares for her and is always there when she needs him. She is wrong.
Having eaten a part of the meal she had prepared, Miyoung returns to the living room and turns on the TV to watch some drama while waiting for Lu Han to come home, pulling her feet up the couch and pressing her knees to her chest so she can hug her legs with her arms. She rests her cheek on her knees, absently listening to the lead actor's monologue. She is almost dozing off when she hears the sound of the security lock beeping followed by the opening and closing of the door.
"Miyoung?"
Who else? She thinks.
"In here!" She calls anyway. Lu Han shuffles in the living room with a smile and she wants to cry because damn him he is so handsome.
"Hi," Lu Han greets and kisses the top of her head, something he's used to be doing ever since middle school. Nothing new there.
"Hello, have you had dinner?" Tiffany asks as he sits beside her.
"Yes. You? I told you to eat without me."
"I ate already."
Lu Han nods. "That's good. How's your day?"
Awful."It's fine. Same work. Same stuffs.How about you?"
His smile almost breaks Miyoung's heart. It's so beautiful. "I had a great day. However I'm a bit tired, so I hope you won't mind if I retire first."
"No problem,"Miyoung answers, glad that he had a nice day compared to her. "I assume the meeting went well?"
Lu Han's smile falters for a second but it is too fast for the girl to notice. He grins, "It went very well." He stands up from his seat and starts walking out of the room. "Good night, Miyoung. Don't stay up late, 'kay? You still have work tomorrow."
"Sure. Good night, Hanhan."
Lu Han laughs lightly at the nickname before waving at her one last time and disappearing out the door. Miyoung listens to his footsteps on the stairs until she hears him close his room's door. "I love you, Hanhan."
She waits for another half hour before turning off all the appliances downstairs and double checking the locks on the door. She dims the light and heads up the stairs, opening the door to her own room. Yes, they have separate rooms, both adjacent to each other, aside from the master's bedroom they keep for pretend just in case their parents visit them or any other visitors. No one should know about their relationship and about Lu Han's secret so they need to keep a facade.
Everything seems to be a facade in this relationship, Miyoung thinks bitterly.
--
"Ma said they'll meet us at the gala."
Miyoung nods, fixing her bracelet on her left wrist as Lu Han drives carefully in the busy street of Seoul one evening. They are on their way to a charity ball held by one of the Lu Corp's business partners. It was a formal evening gala, where everyone is expected to wear suits and tie and beautiful long gowns.
An elegant one-shoulder black dress adorns Miyoung's body, it was a gown customized for her, floor-length dress that sparkles every time she moves. A slit was made just by the middle of her right thigh, showing off her milky white skin. Lu Han frowned at that when he saw it, but didn't say a thing. He could be protective sometimes, and Miyoung likes that a lot. Her hair is fixed in a bun with a silver hairpin with lots of Swarovski crystals tucked in it. A silver Prada clutch bag and Jimmy Choos complete her look.
She gazes at Lu Han. "You look really dashing tonight, Han."
He quickly glances at her before looking back at the road with a smile. "Thank you. My date is gorgeous so I better keep up."
Miyoung lets out a giggle and studies him. He's wearing a simple black suit with silver linings at the collar. He is not wearing any tie, and he lets the first two button of is white dress shirt open, a white gold necklace hanging around his neck. His hair is down, a little messy, fringe covering her forehead. He even put on light eyeliner.
All in all, he looks like a hotmodel from Esquire.
He managed to look sexy and alluring at the same time and Miyoung wanted to slit her throat and die when she first saw him out of his bedroom. She was speechless and Lu Han had to flick her forehead to get her senses back.
"They said the Byuns will be announcing Baekhyun and Taeyeon's engagement tonight. Baekhyun must be ecstatic." He grins.
"Really?"Miyoung says, amused. "Taeyeon didn't mention anything to me, I'm sad."
"It was a sudden decision. There's a rumor that the innocent puppy knocked up Taeyeon. It would be a disgrace to the families, especially when they aren't married yet."
"What?!"
"The keyword is rumor, Myeong."Lu Han laughs.
Miyoung blushes at the nickname. It's been a while since he called her that and she feels her heart bursting.
"I-- I'm going to talk to Taeyeon later then. To confirm things."
Lu Han shrugs.
They arrive at the venue ten minutes later. The valets open the door for them and Lu Han hands the valet boy his car keys. He saunters gracefully to where Miyoung is waiting for him, and holds out his arm for her to loop hers. They exchanged pleasantries to the people they know, most of them businessmen, some are social elites and politicians. Miyoung spots Taeyeon somewhere, she's wearing a red gown making her stand out but she disappears quickly and Miyoung lose her from her sight.
"How is the merger doing, Mr. And Mrs. Lu?" An old businessman asks, and if Miyoung isn't wrong, his name is Mr. Lee, owner of one of the huge entertainment company that produces big stars in the country.
"It's doing well, thanks for asking." Lu Han says with a smile. "It will take place three weeks for now so everything is a tad bit hectic than usual."
Miyoung nods and Mr. Lee smiles at her, "you look so beautiful, Mrs. Lu. I see marriage is doing the both of you good."
The couple laughs and Miyoung says, "thank you and I guess it does. Anyway, Mr. Lee, I'd like to invite you in another party, it's to celebrate the merging of our companies. It will take place a day after the merger. Formal invitation will be sent, of course."
"Charming. I'd love to go."
"That's great,"Miyoungsays,eyesmile in display. "You know, Mr. Lee, your entertainment is doing so well right now. Congratulations on your new artist's debut. I love JeonJungkook. He's a great singer."
"Ah, yes. He's a good kid. Would you like me to bring him on the party? He can perform for the night."
Miyoung let out a tiny squeal, "that'd be great Mr. Lee! I'd love that."
"Okay then. Make him your special guest."
"Certainly."
A few more exchanges and Mr. Lee excuse himself to catch up with his old buddy, Mr. Yang. Lu Han has an amused smile when he facesMiyoung. "That was very smooth, Mrs. Lu."
"That's how you do business." Lu Han chuckles when Miyoung winks at him.
"I cannot believe he was fooled by your eyesmile. I think he has pedo tendencies," Lu Han sips on his champagne.
"Don't be like that. It's all about the charms."The charms that doesn't seem to work on you.
Lu Han is about to retort but his phone beeps. He reads the message quickly before tucking the phone back on his suit's front pocket. "Ma and Ba are here. Let's find them."
The couple walks to the entrance, bumping every now and then to people they had to greet. Just then they saw a middle-aged couple. They both look elegant.
When Miyoung and Lu Han reachthem, Mrs. Lu immediately had her arms around Miyoung, ignoring his son who decided to hug his father instead.
"Our Miyoung! You look so beautiful, as always. I miss you so much, darling!" the old woman says while hugging her.
"I miss you too, Mama. How's everything?"
"Everything's fine, darling.You're taking care of yourself, right?"
"Ma, I'm your son!" Lu Han says, pouting like a child.
They all laugh at his childish act and Mrs. Lu kisses his son's cheeks. Miyoung walks to Mr. Lu, who's a fairly quiet man, to place a soft kiss on the old man’s cheek as well, "hi, Ba."
The two couples walk to the soirees and grab some drinks again before catching up. Lu Han crosses his arms when he sees her mother clinging to his wife.
"So, Miyoung, have you been having cravings yet?"
Miyoung's eyes widen and Lu Han chokes on his champagne. His father pats his back to help.
Miyoung laughs nervously. "Not yet, ma. I guess it's too early for that."
Mrs. Lu scowls at her son, akimbo. "Well, what are you two waiting for? Hurry up and give me grandchildren! Your folks aren't getting any younger!"
"Ma, it's not like that. Lu Han and I want to take our time on this."
Lu Han nods, "Miyoung and I are on family planning. You have to wait for another two years for your grandchildren."
"Two years?"Mrs. Lu exclaimed. "Two years! That's just outrageous, young man!"
"Mother, please."
Trying to convince the old woman that grandchildren can wait is surely hard but they had managed. Dinner was served after a while. Soon the Byuns clink their glasses as they stand on the huge staircase of the hall to have the guests' attention.
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen, I hope you are having a wonderful time tonight," Mr. Byun, Baekhyun's father, starts. "We are very thankful for your generous donations to our charity and we appreciate that you are willing to share an amount of your wealth for a good cause. So far we have raised the charity fund to $130,000.00, and more of you are still donating so for that, thank you very much."
The guests applaud, and Mr. Byun holds up a hand with a gentle smile on his face to stop them. "We are also pleased that you are here with us to celebrate a huge event in our family. We are here to formally announce the engagement of my second son to his beautiful partner, Miss Kim Taeyeon, daughter of the respected Dr. Kim."
Another round of applause and the said couple greet the crowd with bows and smiles. A few more speeches are made and the people start greeting the two in person. Lu Han and Miyoung take their time to approach then and when it's their turn they immediately start teasing each other.
"Ya, Kim Taeyeon. You're making the biggest mistake in your life!" Lu Han says and Baekhyun punches him on the shoulder. Taeyeon just laughs at him.
"Well, I bet Miyoung is regretting everything now. Tell me, Hwang, is he giving you a hard time?"
"Lu is the name, Baek. And no, I'm the most perfect husband!"
Miyoung snorts and Taeyeon laughs again but the former interrupted them, "excuse us boys, we'll just have our girl talk for a while."
"Take your time."
Miyoung pulls the shorter girl in a corner before giving her a hug. "Congratulations, Taeng."
"Thanks, Miyoung."
"I'm upset, you didn't tell me anything."
"Everything happened so fast, I'm so sorry."
"So I assume the rumor is true?"Miyoungasks, tone slightly low and serious.
"Rumor?"
Miyoung sighs, "Lu Han just told me earlier when we were driving here. Rumor has it that you're pregnant with Baekhyun's child."
Biting her lower lip, Taeyeon nods. "I guess it would be in vain if I ask you to keep it a secret since it seems like everyone knows but we aren't confirming anything."
"Oh, Taeyeon."Miyoung hugs her friend before pulling away and patting her cheek. "When did you realize you are ..."
"Just three weeks ago, it was after your wedding. I got really dizzy but Baek said I collapsed so he brought me to the hospital. Then the doctor told us. I'm two months pregnant."
Miyoung's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "That's... That's wonderful! Can I be the godmother?"
"By default!"
The two giggles, but Miyoung turns serious again. "Taeng, are you... Are you serious about Baekhyun?"
"What do you mean?"
"I mean... Like, are you sure he isn't hiding something from you?"
"Like what?"
"I don't know."
"I'm sure he's not, Miyoung. And I love him so I've never been so sure of anything."
"Okay," she nods. "Be happy."
"Is there a problem between you and Lu Han?"
"No there is none."
Taeyeon rolls her eyes, "you know I can tell when you're lying, Miyoung."
"I wish I could tell you,"saysMiyoung mournfully.
This time, it is Taeyeon who hugs the girl. "Whatever it is, it will be okay soon. I'm sure of it."
I doubt it, Miyoung thought.
~~
Two months into Lu Han and Miyoung's marriage and nothing has changed. They're still friends. Miyoung stopped trying to change that. She eventually got tired but that doesn't mean she stopped loving him too.
It is half past eight and Miyoung just arrived at their house. She is tired and she hasn’t even finished half of her work even if she had overtime. There are just too many things to do, but lots of work means the business is doing well so she is not complaining.
She lies down on the couch, prompting up her feet on the armrest and turning the TV on. She haven't had eaten yet and thinks of what she would have for delivery. She did not repeat that mistake of cooking dinner for Lu Han again since the man preferred take outs or delivery and sometimes when he gets home, he has already eaten.
Miyoung is just about to call Lu Han to ask what he likes for dinner since she cannot decide on it when she receives a call from him.
"Hey," she answers.
"Where are you?"
"Just got home."
"Have you eaten yet?"
"No, I was just about to ask you what you want. I'm calling for delivery."
"Oh, just buy for yourself. I already ate out. I'm still at the office."
"When are you going to be home?"
"I might stay out and won't be back until tomorrow."
"Tomorrow is Tuesday. You have work."
"Yeah, I'll be home in the morning to change."
Miyoung sighs, "take care then."
"Alright, see you later. Good night." Lu Han hangs up without waiting for her reply.
She pouts while looking at the screen, a photo of her and Lu Han as wallpaper. "Stupid! Stupid! Stupid deer!"
After finishing her BigMac and fries, she heads to her room to retire. When she is lying down on her bed, she browses on her phone's camera roll where she keeps a folder of their wedding photos' soft copies. She looks at then until she fallsasleep, eyes tearing up in reasons she does not really know nor understand.
~~
"I'll be staying in Osaka for two weeks."
"Hm~" Lu Han hums against Sehun's neck. He brushes his fingers up and down the man's bare back as he sucks on the delicate skin.
"Lu Han."Sehun pushes him away gently and cups his small face with his hands. "We need to talk."
"I miss you, Sehun-ah," Lu Han pouts like a kid.
Sehun laughs and gently presses a kiss on his pouty lips. "I miss you too, hyung. But we need to talk."
"Okay, then. Talk."
"Hyung~" the younger whines when Lu Han starts tracing circles on his chest, distracting him. "Seriously, hyung. This is important."
"Fine," Lu Han plops on the bed and covers himself with the sheet up to his nose. "Shoot."
Sehun remains sitting, playing with Lu Han's locks. "I'll be staying in Osaka for two weeks," he repeats.
Lu Han nods, "I heard you the first time." He catches Sehun's hand and intertwines their fingers together.
"Well, you didn't seem like you were listening. Anyway, it's a Physics convention so I can't miss it. I'll be with a few of the faculties in our department."
"Do I know any of them?"
Sehun shrugs, "most of them are new, but you know Jongin, the guy I introduced to you before."
"Yeah, I remember him. Tall, dark, handsome."
Sehun glares at him, and Lu Han giggles.
"So I would not be able to see you during that time. But we could always Skype right? Or you can Line me anytime. International sms and calls are costly so we need to stick to Wi-Fi,"Sehun jokes.
"Of course, keep in contact, okay, Sehun-ah."
"Always, hyung."
Lu Han smiles, the kind of smile he uses to Sehun when he wants something and the younger gulps. Lu Han has his index finger trailing down Sehun's collarbones to his stomach making him shiver. "So I was saying,"says Lu Han, voice rather sultry. "I miss you, Sehun-ah."
"Uhh..."
"And... let me top tonight." With that, Lu Han lunges forward to tackle Sehun down on the bed, kissing him all over his face. Sehun let out a hearty laugh and wraps his arms around the shorter's naked waist.
"Okay, hyung."
~~
Sehun did not contact him when he was in Japan. Not even once. Lu Han can't help but worry. What if something happened to him, Lu Han has no way of knowing. He tries being optimistic, like thinking maybe Sehun lost his phone, or there isn’t any internet access that's why he couldn't even leave him a short email.
It left Lu Han cranky for the rest of the week, and it is unfortunate for the innocent housemate he has, Miyoung who seemed to beat the receiving end of his anger and frustrations.
"Miyoung! How many times do I need to tell you not to leave dirty plates on the sink?" he yells in the kitchen.
"I'll do it later! I'll just finish this episode," Miyoung's muffled reply comes.
It is a Saturday; both of them got their rest day until tomorrow so it's normal that Miyoung's catching up to her dramas. Lu Han slams the door of the fridge after getting his Red Bull.
"Do it now! Or there'll be ants crawling everywhere here."
"Fifteen minutes!"
Lu Han stomps inside the living room, grabs the remote control and turns off the TV. Miyoung sits up on the couch while glaring at him. "What the hell?"
"Do your dishes. Now."
"It's just one plate, Lu Han!"
"Exactly! Just one plate and you can't even do it right after you ate!"
"Why are you so mad over the dishes? God."
"I'm mad because you're so lazy!"
Miyoung grits her teeth. "I work eight hours a day, sometimes more, five days a week. You cannot call me lazy."
"Well, if you're not one then you won't slack off in things such as doing one plate."
"What is wrong with you?"Miyoung stands up and shoves him away, marching upstairs and slamming her bedroom door shut.
"Shit, she didn't even do--- fuck." He mutters before going inside the kitchen and doing the damned plate himself.
Evening came, and Lu Han still keeps on glancing at his phone to check for any message but there is none. It's quarter to seven when Miyoung comes down to the living room. Miyoung gives him the cold shoulder and flops down on the farthest side of the couch with her earphones plug in her ears.
Lu Han sighs, thinking of the best way to apologize for being an ass to her earlier.
"Miyoung?" He calls. No response.
"Myeong?Yah." Still no response.
Lu Han crawls on the couch to get closer to her before pulling her left earphone out. He flinches when Miyoung glared at him and he could only smile timidly.
"Hey."
Miyoung didnot answer, only keeping her glare on him.
"Uh...” he gulps, “What do you want for dinner?"
When he receives no answer again he decides to step up his game a bit. "Look, Myeong. I'm sorry for being a jerk earlier. I shouldn't have done that. It was mean. I apologize. Forgive me, please?"
"Just because you're acting cute doesn't mean I'll forgive you instantly."
"Aw, come on! I pulled my best aegyo face! You could at least accept my apology!" Lu Han pouts some more, but he knows the worst is over.
Miyoung shakes her head.
"Fine, dinner's on me tonight. What do you want? I'll call McDonald's. Or your favorite sushi house. Come on, anything you want." Lu Han waves his phone at her with a grin.
Miyoung seems to contemplate something, "alright..."
Lu Han perks up, ready to take her order. Or orders.
"Cook for me tonight."
"What?!" Lu Han gapes at her.
"Cook for me. You said anything I want. I want you to cook for me."
Thinking that arguing won't do him good, Lu Han shrugs."Fine, then. What do you want?"
Miyoung smiles."Curry ramen!"
"Tch. Easy."
An hour later, a hot bowl of curry ramen is served in front of an excited Miyoung sitting at the dining table. "Jalmoketsumnida!"
Lu Han looks at her, anticipating her review. But Miyoung does not say anything and only keep on eating until she finished her bowl with a slurping sound.
He blinks, "how was it?"
"So so."
"So so?So so?" Lu Han says in disbelief. "I made that with all of my heart and soul and you're just saying it tastes so so? Where's the justice in that?"
"Wow, you are so dramatic."
"Come on, how is it?" he asks again as Miyoung walks to the kitchen sink and washes the dish. Lu Han follows her.
"You shouldn't have asked me if you cannot accept my answer."Miyoung dries her hands after and heads out of the kitchen and on the way to the stairs. Lu Han follows her like a puppy behind.
"Just tell me if it's delicious or not."
Miyoung abruptly stops and turns to face him. His body almost collided with hers. Miyoung laughs.
"It's delicious, Hanhan. Thank you." She then leans forward and tiptoes while placing her hand on his shoulder. She kisses Lu Han's cheek. "Good night."
And then she runs up the stairs and Lu Han just hears her bedroom door shuts. He shakes his head while smiling as he walks up to his room.
Lu Han feels so sad for Miyoung. He knows how the girl feels about him. He isn't that dense. But he couldn't do anything because he just doesn't love her that way. He just couldn't. His heart would always belong to Sehun. He wishes that Miyoung will find her happiness someday. Hell he will let her have a boyfriend of her own if that would make her happy. They're living in a sin already, might as well live it to the fullest.
Sehun did not contact him that night. And Lu Han sleeps with a heavy heart.
(2/4)