Coin Operated Boy 1/3
Title: Coin Operated Boy
Pairing: HyunJoong/JungMin
Chapter: 1/3
Rating: Pg-13
Summary: HyunJoong receives the strangest birthday gift from a mysterious 'friend'. Once he learns it's secret, it a race to unravel the mystery before time runs out.
A/N: Birthday fic requested by curionenene for herself and yeonah. Enjoy~
Le vin que l'on boit par les yeux
A flots verts de la Lune coule,
Et submerge comme une houle
Les horizons silencieux.
De doux conseils pernicieux
Dans le philtre yagent en foule:
Le vin que l'on boit par les yeux
A flots verts de la Lune coule.
Le Poète religieux
De l'étrange absinthe se soûle,
Aspirant, - jusqu'à ce qu'il roule,
Le geste fou, la tête aux cieux, -
Le vin que l'on boit par les yeux!
.100.
The box had been delivered two days prior, or so he had been told by one of his servants. There was no note or indication of what it was, but the staff had assumed it was a birthday gift for the master of the house and left it in a storage room until the day of the party.
This was the first HyunJoong had heard of the box as he paced around it, eyeing the purple and white diamond patter, the gold framing and trimmings, including a large gold key hole.
"So... no card?" HyunJoong asked for the third time, looking at his assistant, who shook his head. "No note?" Another shake of the head. "So... no key." HyunJoong said finally, coming back to the front of the box, looking at the keyhole.
"No sir, no key," the assistant shook his head again. "You don't know who would have sent it?"
"Not a clue," HyunJoong said, completely at a loss. "If something like this shows up again, please tell me right away. What if there was a bomb in there or something?"
The assistant chuckled at that, but when HyunJoong looked sharply at him, he realized the other wasn't kidding and quickly coughed. "It was checked sir, well before it was brought in. There's no bomb or anything dangerous."
"But no idea what's inside," HyunJoong sighed, shaking his head. "Alright, well go ahead and wheel it into the hall. If someone doesn't show up with the key at the party then I'll just get a locksmith or something to open it."
"Yes sir," the assistant inclined his head, snapping his fingers at the handlers to move the box from the room. "You think whoever sent it will be at the party then?" the man asked, falling into step with HyunJoong who was already heading away from the storage room towards the stairs.
"Seems like something one of my 'friends' would send, don't you HyungJoon?" the older man asked, starting up the stairs to the second level. "I bet it's one of KyuJong's tricks and it's full of bugs or something."
"Bugs? But you hate bugs," HyungJoon said, nearly tripping at that. He hated bugs too.
"And that is exactly why he would send it," HyunJoong sighed. At the landing, he turned down towards his office, hands in his pockets. "I trust everything is ready for the party?"
"Of course sir," HyungJoon nodded, opening up the folder he had with him, going over the lists. "Flowers have been delivered, decorations are up, food is being made as we speak, but of course will be ready in time for dinner. Guests should be arriving in..." he checked his watch, wincing at the time. "About two hours. Don't worry about a thing sir, I have it all under control."
"I should hope so, you've been planning this since the beginning of the year," HyunJoong chuckled. "I just want this to go smoothly. You know I don't particularly care for parties, but pressure from above insisted," he sighed.
"Is your father even attending?" HyungJoon blinked, flipping through the folder to the guest list.
"No, he has some important meeting in France or Narnia or something," HyunJoong rolled his eyes. "He said this was a good opportunity for me to make my mark on my own. I thought I had made my mark when I took over the Asian division of his company and turned a profit double what he made all of last year in one quarter."
"Yes sir, it was a remarkable feat," HyungJoon nodded, closing his folder. "I think he meant your mark on the social world. Your twenty-five now sir, and this is the first time you're hosting a party. You need to make a good impression."
"HyungJoon," HyunJoong stopped, looking at his assistant, lips pursed. "You're my friend, and I respect your opinion, but right now, you're sounding like him. You of all people should know how little I care for these social gatherings."
"Yes, I know sir," HyungJoon sighed, reaching up to straighten HyunJoong's tie. "But unfortunately being at the top means you're expected to do certain things."
"Like host silly parties," HyunJoong smirked, swatting HyungJoon's hand away and loosening his tie again.
"Like host silly parties," HyungJoon nodded.
"And finding a wife?" HyunJoong supplied, starting to walk again. "Is that in the official itinerary? Right between opening presents and cutting the cake?"
"What?" HyungJoon blinked and started flipping through his folder again. "I don't think that was... oh, you're making a joke," the assistant scowled at HyunJoong who was laughing. "That wouldn't be such a bad thing, you know. It would get your father off your back..."
"I refuse to live a lie, even if my father refuses to believe me," HyunJoong shook his head. "He's just going to have to accept that about me. As is everyone."
"Of course, sir," HyungJoon sighed, clutching the folder to his chest and following HyungJoon into his office.
--------------
The party was already in full swing when HyunJoong made his entrance. HyungJoon said it was "fashionable" to be late, but HyunJoong just thought it was all nonsense. Greeting people and shaking hands as he moved his way through the crowd, HyunJoong was actually a little impressed at how well HyungJoon had pulled off the party.
Large round tables with white tablecloths and gorgeous floral centerpieces were arrayed around the room. No one was sitting yet as food hadn't been served, but the drinks were flowing. HyunJoong thought the giant portrait of him on the wall was a little tacky, but at least he didn't have to see when he sat at his table to eat later.
Only recognizing about half the guests, he was aware that most of those invited were business associates of his father's, so he had to be on his best behavior. If he had thrown this party, it would have been just him and his two closest friends. Maybe HyungJoon too. As it was, those three were the only ones invited to the after party, which was going to involve copious amounts of alcohol. Not seeing his friends anywhere, and knowing they'd only show up when food was served, HyunJoong grabbed a glass of champagne and meandered through the crowd, mingling as he was expected to.
It was just as he thought. An hour later when dinner was being served, and HyunJoong returned to his table that two people popped up and sat themselves down.
"Happy Birthday, Hyun," the older said, raising up his champagne glass before knocking it back.
"Thank you Jae, you know you're supposed to sip champagne, right?" HyunJoong snorted, picking up his utensils to start eating. Not that he was sure what it was exactly he was eating. "Where have you two been?"
"Socializing," JaeJoong grinned, flagging down another waiter bearing drinks to exchange his empty glass for a full one.
"He means flirting," the younger of the two said, eating as well.
"Kyu is an excellent wing man," JaeJoong said, sitting back in his chair, not touching his meal. "He distracts the boyfriend in the bathroom and I get cozy with the girlfriend."
"You two are horrible," HyunJoong rolled his eyes. "I'd prefer if you didn't have sex in the bathroom, considering this is my home," he said, looking at KyuJong.
"Who said anything about sex?" KyuJong bat his eyelashes innocently.
"I think they still consider blow jobs to be a sexual activity," JaeJoong snorted.
"Let's please not talk about blow jobs, or sex, or anything like that at my party, please?" HyunJoong sighed, poking at what he thought was a bit of lamb.
"Fine fine, only because you asked so nicely birthday boy," KyuJong chuckled. "So are you having fun?"
"No, but thank you for asking," HyunJoong smiled weakly. "Is it considered rude to leave my own party?"
"Probably," JaeJoong shrugged. "You're the son of a billionaire. People expect you to be a little spoiled and a little entitled. Now is a perfect opportunity to use that status for your benefit."
"Or you could just try and suffer through it," KyuJong countered, giving JaeJoong a wry look. "You only have to put up with it for a couple of hours, then shoo everyone out before midnight."
"And what time is it now?" HyunJoong asked, though he was already looking at his watch. "So, two more hours, then it's officially my birthday, and I plan to get obnoxiously drunk later. You two still joining me?"
"Long as boyfriend doesn't come back after ditching the girlfriend," KyuJong beamed.
"If boyfriend leaves, girlfriend's going to need a shoulder to cry on," JaeJoong nodded.
".... Why are you my friends again?" HyunJoong sighed, finishing off his meal.
"Because who else would put up with your crazy ass?" KyuJong supplied and JaeJoong laughed loudly at that.
"Speaking of crazy," HyunJoong said, looking over at the mountain of gifts in the corner of the room. The white and purple box was sitting to the side, looking ominous. "Did either of you send that monstrosity?"
"What?" JaeJoong blinked, following HyunJoong's line of vision. "The box? No, I didn't send it. I bought you towels or something. Or my assistant did anyway. Kyu?"
"When have I ever bought you a gift that wasn't liquor?" KyuJong said, shaking his head. "No, I've never seen the box before."
"Odd," HyunJoong frowned, tapping his finger on the table as he looked at the box. "It showed up two days ago. No card, no note, nothing."
"So you haven't opened it yet?" KyuJong asked, sipping at his drink.
"It's locked, and I don't have the key," HyunJoong said, looking at the other two. They would have told him if it had come from them. So that meant someone else had indeed sent it to him.. but who?
"Odd is right then," KyuJong said, giving the box another glance before turning away and shrugging. "Oh well. Guess they don't want a thank you card then."
------------
It was another two hours of pointless socializing, drinks, and cake before HyunJoong started shooing off guests. He could tell that HyungJoon was biting his tongue as the assistant followed around to give everyone a parting gift, but he was in good spirits. The party had gone well, he hadn't been made to make a ridiculous toast, and no one tried to toast to him.
After a couple of late leavers tried to talk business, HyunJoong was able to breathe a sigh of relief. Servants and staff were cleaning up the dining hall already and HyungJoon was positively beside himself with how well the part had gone, fluttering off in a cloud of giddiness. KyuJong and JaeJoong had disappeared, probably to raid his liquor cabinet.
Making one final round of the hall to make sure everyone had indeed left, HyunJoong was about to head upstairs when someone stepped out of the shadows, smiling softly at him. Nearly falling over from a heart attack when he turned around and saw the person, HyunJoong clutched at his chest and took a couple steadying breaths.
"You scared me," he chuckled, looking up at the shorter man, someone he didn't recognize. "I hope you enjoyed the party... I'm sorry I don't think I caught your name," he said, frowning a little as he bowed politely.
"Happy Birthday HyunJoong," the man said, inclining his head. "I see you got my present," he continued, walking passed HyunJoong into the dining hall. Blinking a bit, HyunJoong turned and followed after him.
"Uh, which one was yours?" HyunJoong asked, still looking at the stranger. "I'm sorry, but do I know you? Are you a friend of my father's?"
"No," the man said simply, shaking his head. Dark almond eyes swiveled up at HyunJoong as the man stopped and looked up at him, hands clasped in front of him. This close, HyunJoong had to keep himself from looking the man up and down, as he was very good looking.
"Then... who are you?" HyunJoong frowned. "Are... you my present?" he asked with a hopeful smile, and the man laughed, shaking his head, the long black locks bouncing.
"No, I am not your present, I'm a friend of a friend," the man said, reaching into his coat pocket and pulling out an envelope and handing it to HyunJoong. "I think you're wanting this?"
"What's this?" HyunJoong took the envelope and slowly opened it up. He blinked when he saw what was inside, and looked up at the man who was still smiling, a hint of dimples in his cheeks. "You sent it?" he said, reaching in and pulling out the gold key.
"Yes and no, but you'll understand," the man said, clasping his hands in front of him again. "Why don't you go ahead and open it?"
"Now?" HyunJoong blinked, looking at the box with a sigh. "Alright," he shrugged, setting the envelope one of the tables to be taken care of by a servant and walked over to the box, the strange man a step behind. "You still haven't told me your name," he said, looking over at him as he played with the key in his hand.
"My name isn't important," the man said, still smiling. "Open the box, and I will tell you my name."
"Alright, you've got a deal," HyunJoong chuckled, looking down at the keyhole before inserting the key and turning it until he heard a click. One edge of the front of the box popped outward and HyunJoong looked at the man again, then slowly opened up the box.
"Hey, HyunJoo-" JaeJoong came stumbling into the room, KyuJong beside him. The former blinked repeatedly at HyunJoong, then at the strange man, then at the opened box. "What..... what the hell is that?"
HyunJoong was asking the same thing, staring at what looked like... well a man standing inside the box. Red hair combed back, pale face, eyes closed. Perfectly painted red lips and matching red and black diamond patterened suit. "....What is this?" he managed to ask, tearing his eyes away from the inside of the box to the man standing beside him.
"It's a Harlequin," the man said, as if that explained everything.
"But... I don't understand," HyunJoong shook his head and turned back to the man inside the box. "Is... he real?" HyunJoong stepped closer, hesitantly reaching out with his hand to poke at the figure's chest. But whatever it was, it was light and nearly tipped backwards when HyunJoong gave it the gentles of taps.
"I'm not sure what you mean by real, but it's a Harlequin. Here, I'll show you," the man said, pulling HyunJoong back slightly to step inside the box. He reached around the figure's back, and after what sounded like a couple of clicks, stepped back out. "Just watch."
Doing that, HyunJoong nearly fell over when the Harlequin opened it's eyes and took two mechanical steps from the box. Scrambling to get out of it's way, HyunJoong watched in amazement as the figure began to dance and tumble around the dance floor. Cartwheels and flips, followed by a grand jeté, and pirouettes. While the walking of the figure had been jerky and mechanical, the dancing was nothing but smooth graceful lines that flowed seamlessly with each other.
After what seemed an endless amount of acrobatics and spinning, the figure stopped, slowly relaxing to the standing position as if waiting. The strange man stepped forward, taking the figures hand and pulling gently, the figure took slow steps forward until it was back in the box. The man closed up the box and took out the key, handing it to HyunJoong, who was still too startled to understand.
"A Harlequin belongs to whoever opens his box first," the man said, smiling up at HyunJoong. "You keep the box in your bedroom, let it out when you would like some amusement."
HyunJoong shook his head, coming out of his shock at that statement. "I'm not keeping that thing in my room. It's creepy."
"It's not really a choice," the man said, shrugging slightly. "Just take good care of him," he said, glancing once more at the box before turning away and starting towards the doorway where JaeJoong and KyuJong were still standing.
Frowning, HyunJoong looked at the key in his hand before he remembered something. "Hey, wait! You never told me your name," he said, looking up. The man stopped and turned to look over his shoulder.
"My name is YoungSaeng, and you'll be seeing me again when you understand," the man smiled, dimples growing deeper in his cheeks as he walked out the door.
"Understand what?" HyunJoong blinked at that. The two in the hall were watch YoungSaeng go, and KyuJong looked at HyunJoong.
"I'll go make sure he leaves and doesn't like hide somewhere or something," KyuJong said, following after YoungSaeng. JaeJoong walked into the room, hands in his pockets, looking at the box.
"So, interesting present," the older man said, stopping at HyunJoong's side. "I would have thought you were a little old for dolls though."
"Ha. Ha. So funny," HyunJoong rolled his eyes, but he was looking at the box as well, the key gripped tightly in his hand. "He said I'm supposed to keep it in my room, but would you want that thing looming over you when you try to sleep?"
"Then leave it down here," JaeJoong shrugged, clapping HyunJoong on the shoulder and pulling him towards the door. "Come on. Let's get some drinks and forget about weird presents and weird people."
"Yeah, right," HyunJoong nodded, glancing down at the key in his hand before stuffing it in his pocket. He'd deal with whatever this thing was in the morning.
-------------
After a long night of drinking and games, HyunJoong wasn't surprised when he woke up with a headache pounding between his ears. The sunlight wasn't helping as it streamed through the curtains onto his bed and straight into his eyes when he cracked them open.
It took a moment for him to see it, but when he saw the purple and white box he nearly screamed, arms flailing as he scurried up to the head of the bed. He had told no one to move the thing to his room, and HyungJoon wouldn't have done it on his own. Eyes narrowing, he flung his blankets off and got out of bed, pulling on sweats and a shirt before stomping out of the room.
The occupant of the guest room was woken up to the door slamming into the wall and a very angry looking HyunJoong in the doorway, hands on hips.
"Did you do it? Or did KyuJong," HyunJoong said, striding forward into the room and yanking the covers off of him.
JaeJoong yelped, clinging to the thin sheet and trying to get out of HyunJoong's way. "Do what? You've gone crazy. I knew you shouldn't have had that shot of tequila, it always messes you up."
"The box, is in my room, did you put it there?" HyunJoong said, dumping the blankets onto the floor, ignoring whatever else it was JaeJoong was sputtering.
"What? Why? Why would I do that?" JaeJoong stared at HyunJoong before slowly getting to his feet. Luckily he was still dressed, having passed out as soon as he walked in the door the night before. "I could barely walk, Hyun," JaeJoong said, shaking his head. "Let alone drag a giant box up the stairs and into your room."
"Then it was KyuJong," HyunJoong turned on heel and stomped out, heading towards the other guest room.
It was a repeat of the same thing. HyunJoong ripping off blankets accusing, sputtered sleepy denials from the occupant and a frustrated HyunJoong leaving the room. "Well if it wasn't you two, can someone tell me who it was then?" HyunJoong said, throwing his hands up in the air when he saw HyungJoon scurrying down the hall towards them. "HyungJoon, did you do that?"
"Do what?" the assistant said with wide eyes. One of the servants had gone to fetch him when the commotion started, and had no idea what would have got HyunJoong into such a tither.
"That," HyunJoong pointed back to his room. The assistant frowned slightly, heading towards HyunJoong's door and peeking in. He turned back to look at HyunJoong.
"You mean the box?" he asked, confused. "You told me to bring it up."
"I.... what?" HyunJoong blinked and shook his head. "No, no I didn't."
"Yes... you did," HyungJoon said, looking at HyunJoong strangely. "Last night, you came to my room and told me to have it brought to your room. You were pretty drunk."
HyunJoong stared dumbstruck at HyungJoon. "Why in the world would I have done that?" he said after a moment and the assistant shook his head, shrugging.
"I have no idea, sir," HyungJoon said. "But you definitely did."
"Didn't YoungSaeng say it was supposed to stay in your room?" JaeJoong asked, coming up beside HyunJoong.
"Who's YoungSaeng?" HyungJoon asked, frowning a little. "I don't remember a YoungSaeng on the guest list."
"He was the one who sent the Harlequin," HyunJoong said, rubbing at his head. His headache was getting worse.
"The what?" HyungJoon blinked. "Harlequin? Like the character?"
"Show him," JaeJoong nudged HyunJoong's shoulder and HyunJoong resisted the urge to his his friend.
"Fine," HyunJoong huffed, brushing past his assistant. Picking up the key he had set on the bedside table the night before, he went over to the box, sticking the key into the keyhole and unlocking it. The door popped ajar again and he pulled it open.
HyungJoon's jaw dropped when he saw the harlequin figure standing inside. Stepping closer when the two friends crowded him into the room, he blinked repeatedly. "What is that?"
"A harlequin, whatever that means," HyunJoong said, looking at the figure inside. Stepping into the box, he eyed the figure's face, frowning a little at just how real the thing looked. Reaching around the back, his fingers searched for whatever it was that YoungSaeng had fiddled with the night before to get the thing to move. There was a metal tab sticking out between the shoulder blades, and after fussing with it, he managed to get it to turn two clicks. The harlequin's eyes opened and HyunJoong stumbled back.
"Freaky," HyungJoon murmured, watching the harlequin step out of the box. Once again, the thing started to dance and leap about the room, careful not to hit anyone else or any furniture. "So.. did he say why he gave you this?"
"No, just that I'd understand later or something," HyunJoong said, watching the harlequin move around the room until it suddenly stopped. "He also said it had to be kept in my room, but wouldn't tell me why." He started towards the figure to bring it back to the box.
"Hey what's this?" JaeJoong asked. He'd been studying the box in interest and pointed at something on the inside of the door. HyunJoong came over and looked at what he was pointing at. "It looks like a counter or something, you know, like an odometer?"
HyunJoong frowned, looking at the three numbers on the door. "One hundred? One hundred what?"
"Why are you asking me?" JaeJoong snorted, leaning down to get a closer look at it.
"Maybe it's how many times the thing has been opened?" HyungJoon suggested, still eyeing the harlequin who hadn't moved.
"No, YoungSaeng said that it hadn't been opened before," HyunJoong said. "Or, something to that affect."
"So what are you going to do with it?" JaeJoong asked, stepping out of the way so HyunJoong could bring the harlequin back over and put it into the box.
"I have no idea. What do I need something like this for?" HyunJoong said, closing the box back up and taking out the key. "I don't think I'll be able to get rid of it either."
"Probably not," KyuJong said softly, looking at the box. "Maybe you should look into the history of the harlequin. Maybe it'll help?"
"Right, cause I have time for that," HyunJoong snorted, shaking his head. "I'll get one of my people on it, see what they can find out about this and who YoungSaeng is. I don't really appreciate party crashers and strange gifts. What if this thing is going to just kill me in my sleep?"
"I don't see how, unless you think it comes alive at night," KyuJong chuckled, ignoring the glare from HyunJoong.
"Not helpful," HyunJoong grumbled, shooing everyone out of his room. "Alright, everyone out, I have to get ready and some work to do. Kyu, Jae, I'll see you two later I'm sure."
"Of course," JaeJoong mock bowed in deference and headed out, dragging KyuJong with him.
"HyungJoon, get someone on this thing, see what you can find out," HyunJoong said to his assistant who nodded.
"Right away sir," HyungJoon said, shutting the door behind him.
Sighing, HyunJoong turned back to the box in the corner of the room. "You can just stand there being creepy," he said, heading towards his bathroom to get ready. At least the door of the box was closed. He didn't think he could stand it if he left the door open and see that thing inside. It was creepy. Regardless, he shut and locked the door to this bathroom anyway.
....continue
Pairing: HyunJoong/JungMin
Chapter: 1/3
Rating: Pg-13
Summary: HyunJoong receives the strangest birthday gift from a mysterious 'friend'. Once he learns it's secret, it a race to unravel the mystery before time runs out.
A/N: Birthday fic requested by curionenene for herself and yeonah. Enjoy~
Le vin que l'on boit par les yeux
A flots verts de la Lune coule,
Et submerge comme une houle
Les horizons silencieux.
De doux conseils pernicieux
Dans le philtre yagent en foule:
Le vin que l'on boit par les yeux
A flots verts de la Lune coule.
Le Poète religieux
De l'étrange absinthe se soûle,
Aspirant, - jusqu'à ce qu'il roule,
Le geste fou, la tête aux cieux, -
Le vin que l'on boit par les yeux!
.100.
The box had been delivered two days prior, or so he had been told by one of his servants. There was no note or indication of what it was, but the staff had assumed it was a birthday gift for the master of the house and left it in a storage room until the day of the party.
This was the first HyunJoong had heard of the box as he paced around it, eyeing the purple and white diamond patter, the gold framing and trimmings, including a large gold key hole.
"So... no card?" HyunJoong asked for the third time, looking at his assistant, who shook his head. "No note?" Another shake of the head. "So... no key." HyunJoong said finally, coming back to the front of the box, looking at the keyhole.
"No sir, no key," the assistant shook his head again. "You don't know who would have sent it?"
"Not a clue," HyunJoong said, completely at a loss. "If something like this shows up again, please tell me right away. What if there was a bomb in there or something?"
The assistant chuckled at that, but when HyunJoong looked sharply at him, he realized the other wasn't kidding and quickly coughed. "It was checked sir, well before it was brought in. There's no bomb or anything dangerous."
"But no idea what's inside," HyunJoong sighed, shaking his head. "Alright, well go ahead and wheel it into the hall. If someone doesn't show up with the key at the party then I'll just get a locksmith or something to open it."
"Yes sir," the assistant inclined his head, snapping his fingers at the handlers to move the box from the room. "You think whoever sent it will be at the party then?" the man asked, falling into step with HyunJoong who was already heading away from the storage room towards the stairs.
"Seems like something one of my 'friends' would send, don't you HyungJoon?" the older man asked, starting up the stairs to the second level. "I bet it's one of KyuJong's tricks and it's full of bugs or something."
"Bugs? But you hate bugs," HyungJoon said, nearly tripping at that. He hated bugs too.
"And that is exactly why he would send it," HyunJoong sighed. At the landing, he turned down towards his office, hands in his pockets. "I trust everything is ready for the party?"
"Of course sir," HyungJoon nodded, opening up the folder he had with him, going over the lists. "Flowers have been delivered, decorations are up, food is being made as we speak, but of course will be ready in time for dinner. Guests should be arriving in..." he checked his watch, wincing at the time. "About two hours. Don't worry about a thing sir, I have it all under control."
"I should hope so, you've been planning this since the beginning of the year," HyunJoong chuckled. "I just want this to go smoothly. You know I don't particularly care for parties, but pressure from above insisted," he sighed.
"Is your father even attending?" HyungJoon blinked, flipping through the folder to the guest list.
"No, he has some important meeting in France or Narnia or something," HyunJoong rolled his eyes. "He said this was a good opportunity for me to make my mark on my own. I thought I had made my mark when I took over the Asian division of his company and turned a profit double what he made all of last year in one quarter."
"Yes sir, it was a remarkable feat," HyungJoon nodded, closing his folder. "I think he meant your mark on the social world. Your twenty-five now sir, and this is the first time you're hosting a party. You need to make a good impression."
"HyungJoon," HyunJoong stopped, looking at his assistant, lips pursed. "You're my friend, and I respect your opinion, but right now, you're sounding like him. You of all people should know how little I care for these social gatherings."
"Yes, I know sir," HyungJoon sighed, reaching up to straighten HyunJoong's tie. "But unfortunately being at the top means you're expected to do certain things."
"Like host silly parties," HyunJoong smirked, swatting HyungJoon's hand away and loosening his tie again.
"Like host silly parties," HyungJoon nodded.
"And finding a wife?" HyunJoong supplied, starting to walk again. "Is that in the official itinerary? Right between opening presents and cutting the cake?"
"What?" HyungJoon blinked and started flipping through his folder again. "I don't think that was... oh, you're making a joke," the assistant scowled at HyunJoong who was laughing. "That wouldn't be such a bad thing, you know. It would get your father off your back..."
"I refuse to live a lie, even if my father refuses to believe me," HyunJoong shook his head. "He's just going to have to accept that about me. As is everyone."
"Of course, sir," HyungJoon sighed, clutching the folder to his chest and following HyungJoon into his office.
--------------
The party was already in full swing when HyunJoong made his entrance. HyungJoon said it was "fashionable" to be late, but HyunJoong just thought it was all nonsense. Greeting people and shaking hands as he moved his way through the crowd, HyunJoong was actually a little impressed at how well HyungJoon had pulled off the party.
Large round tables with white tablecloths and gorgeous floral centerpieces were arrayed around the room. No one was sitting yet as food hadn't been served, but the drinks were flowing. HyunJoong thought the giant portrait of him on the wall was a little tacky, but at least he didn't have to see when he sat at his table to eat later.
Only recognizing about half the guests, he was aware that most of those invited were business associates of his father's, so he had to be on his best behavior. If he had thrown this party, it would have been just him and his two closest friends. Maybe HyungJoon too. As it was, those three were the only ones invited to the after party, which was going to involve copious amounts of alcohol. Not seeing his friends anywhere, and knowing they'd only show up when food was served, HyunJoong grabbed a glass of champagne and meandered through the crowd, mingling as he was expected to.
It was just as he thought. An hour later when dinner was being served, and HyunJoong returned to his table that two people popped up and sat themselves down.
"Happy Birthday, Hyun," the older said, raising up his champagne glass before knocking it back.
"Thank you Jae, you know you're supposed to sip champagne, right?" HyunJoong snorted, picking up his utensils to start eating. Not that he was sure what it was exactly he was eating. "Where have you two been?"
"Socializing," JaeJoong grinned, flagging down another waiter bearing drinks to exchange his empty glass for a full one.
"He means flirting," the younger of the two said, eating as well.
"Kyu is an excellent wing man," JaeJoong said, sitting back in his chair, not touching his meal. "He distracts the boyfriend in the bathroom and I get cozy with the girlfriend."
"You two are horrible," HyunJoong rolled his eyes. "I'd prefer if you didn't have sex in the bathroom, considering this is my home," he said, looking at KyuJong.
"Who said anything about sex?" KyuJong bat his eyelashes innocently.
"I think they still consider blow jobs to be a sexual activity," JaeJoong snorted.
"Let's please not talk about blow jobs, or sex, or anything like that at my party, please?" HyunJoong sighed, poking at what he thought was a bit of lamb.
"Fine fine, only because you asked so nicely birthday boy," KyuJong chuckled. "So are you having fun?"
"No, but thank you for asking," HyunJoong smiled weakly. "Is it considered rude to leave my own party?"
"Probably," JaeJoong shrugged. "You're the son of a billionaire. People expect you to be a little spoiled and a little entitled. Now is a perfect opportunity to use that status for your benefit."
"Or you could just try and suffer through it," KyuJong countered, giving JaeJoong a wry look. "You only have to put up with it for a couple of hours, then shoo everyone out before midnight."
"And what time is it now?" HyunJoong asked, though he was already looking at his watch. "So, two more hours, then it's officially my birthday, and I plan to get obnoxiously drunk later. You two still joining me?"
"Long as boyfriend doesn't come back after ditching the girlfriend," KyuJong beamed.
"If boyfriend leaves, girlfriend's going to need a shoulder to cry on," JaeJoong nodded.
".... Why are you my friends again?" HyunJoong sighed, finishing off his meal.
"Because who else would put up with your crazy ass?" KyuJong supplied and JaeJoong laughed loudly at that.
"Speaking of crazy," HyunJoong said, looking over at the mountain of gifts in the corner of the room. The white and purple box was sitting to the side, looking ominous. "Did either of you send that monstrosity?"
"What?" JaeJoong blinked, following HyunJoong's line of vision. "The box? No, I didn't send it. I bought you towels or something. Or my assistant did anyway. Kyu?"
"When have I ever bought you a gift that wasn't liquor?" KyuJong said, shaking his head. "No, I've never seen the box before."
"Odd," HyunJoong frowned, tapping his finger on the table as he looked at the box. "It showed up two days ago. No card, no note, nothing."
"So you haven't opened it yet?" KyuJong asked, sipping at his drink.
"It's locked, and I don't have the key," HyunJoong said, looking at the other two. They would have told him if it had come from them. So that meant someone else had indeed sent it to him.. but who?
"Odd is right then," KyuJong said, giving the box another glance before turning away and shrugging. "Oh well. Guess they don't want a thank you card then."
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It was another two hours of pointless socializing, drinks, and cake before HyunJoong started shooing off guests. He could tell that HyungJoon was biting his tongue as the assistant followed around to give everyone a parting gift, but he was in good spirits. The party had gone well, he hadn't been made to make a ridiculous toast, and no one tried to toast to him.
After a couple of late leavers tried to talk business, HyunJoong was able to breathe a sigh of relief. Servants and staff were cleaning up the dining hall already and HyungJoon was positively beside himself with how well the part had gone, fluttering off in a cloud of giddiness. KyuJong and JaeJoong had disappeared, probably to raid his liquor cabinet.
Making one final round of the hall to make sure everyone had indeed left, HyunJoong was about to head upstairs when someone stepped out of the shadows, smiling softly at him. Nearly falling over from a heart attack when he turned around and saw the person, HyunJoong clutched at his chest and took a couple steadying breaths.
"You scared me," he chuckled, looking up at the shorter man, someone he didn't recognize. "I hope you enjoyed the party... I'm sorry I don't think I caught your name," he said, frowning a little as he bowed politely.
"Happy Birthday HyunJoong," the man said, inclining his head. "I see you got my present," he continued, walking passed HyunJoong into the dining hall. Blinking a bit, HyunJoong turned and followed after him.
"Uh, which one was yours?" HyunJoong asked, still looking at the stranger. "I'm sorry, but do I know you? Are you a friend of my father's?"
"No," the man said simply, shaking his head. Dark almond eyes swiveled up at HyunJoong as the man stopped and looked up at him, hands clasped in front of him. This close, HyunJoong had to keep himself from looking the man up and down, as he was very good looking.
"Then... who are you?" HyunJoong frowned. "Are... you my present?" he asked with a hopeful smile, and the man laughed, shaking his head, the long black locks bouncing.
"No, I am not your present, I'm a friend of a friend," the man said, reaching into his coat pocket and pulling out an envelope and handing it to HyunJoong. "I think you're wanting this?"
"What's this?" HyunJoong took the envelope and slowly opened it up. He blinked when he saw what was inside, and looked up at the man who was still smiling, a hint of dimples in his cheeks. "You sent it?" he said, reaching in and pulling out the gold key.
"Yes and no, but you'll understand," the man said, clasping his hands in front of him again. "Why don't you go ahead and open it?"
"Now?" HyunJoong blinked, looking at the box with a sigh. "Alright," he shrugged, setting the envelope one of the tables to be taken care of by a servant and walked over to the box, the strange man a step behind. "You still haven't told me your name," he said, looking over at him as he played with the key in his hand.
"My name isn't important," the man said, still smiling. "Open the box, and I will tell you my name."
"Alright, you've got a deal," HyunJoong chuckled, looking down at the keyhole before inserting the key and turning it until he heard a click. One edge of the front of the box popped outward and HyunJoong looked at the man again, then slowly opened up the box.
"Hey, HyunJoo-" JaeJoong came stumbling into the room, KyuJong beside him. The former blinked repeatedly at HyunJoong, then at the strange man, then at the opened box. "What..... what the hell is that?"
HyunJoong was asking the same thing, staring at what looked like... well a man standing inside the box. Red hair combed back, pale face, eyes closed. Perfectly painted red lips and matching red and black diamond patterened suit. "....What is this?" he managed to ask, tearing his eyes away from the inside of the box to the man standing beside him.
"It's a Harlequin," the man said, as if that explained everything.
"But... I don't understand," HyunJoong shook his head and turned back to the man inside the box. "Is... he real?" HyunJoong stepped closer, hesitantly reaching out with his hand to poke at the figure's chest. But whatever it was, it was light and nearly tipped backwards when HyunJoong gave it the gentles of taps.
"I'm not sure what you mean by real, but it's a Harlequin. Here, I'll show you," the man said, pulling HyunJoong back slightly to step inside the box. He reached around the figure's back, and after what sounded like a couple of clicks, stepped back out. "Just watch."
Doing that, HyunJoong nearly fell over when the Harlequin opened it's eyes and took two mechanical steps from the box. Scrambling to get out of it's way, HyunJoong watched in amazement as the figure began to dance and tumble around the dance floor. Cartwheels and flips, followed by a grand jeté, and pirouettes. While the walking of the figure had been jerky and mechanical, the dancing was nothing but smooth graceful lines that flowed seamlessly with each other.
After what seemed an endless amount of acrobatics and spinning, the figure stopped, slowly relaxing to the standing position as if waiting. The strange man stepped forward, taking the figures hand and pulling gently, the figure took slow steps forward until it was back in the box. The man closed up the box and took out the key, handing it to HyunJoong, who was still too startled to understand.
"A Harlequin belongs to whoever opens his box first," the man said, smiling up at HyunJoong. "You keep the box in your bedroom, let it out when you would like some amusement."
HyunJoong shook his head, coming out of his shock at that statement. "I'm not keeping that thing in my room. It's creepy."
"It's not really a choice," the man said, shrugging slightly. "Just take good care of him," he said, glancing once more at the box before turning away and starting towards the doorway where JaeJoong and KyuJong were still standing.
Frowning, HyunJoong looked at the key in his hand before he remembered something. "Hey, wait! You never told me your name," he said, looking up. The man stopped and turned to look over his shoulder.
"My name is YoungSaeng, and you'll be seeing me again when you understand," the man smiled, dimples growing deeper in his cheeks as he walked out the door.
"Understand what?" HyunJoong blinked at that. The two in the hall were watch YoungSaeng go, and KyuJong looked at HyunJoong.
"I'll go make sure he leaves and doesn't like hide somewhere or something," KyuJong said, following after YoungSaeng. JaeJoong walked into the room, hands in his pockets, looking at the box.
"So, interesting present," the older man said, stopping at HyunJoong's side. "I would have thought you were a little old for dolls though."
"Ha. Ha. So funny," HyunJoong rolled his eyes, but he was looking at the box as well, the key gripped tightly in his hand. "He said I'm supposed to keep it in my room, but would you want that thing looming over you when you try to sleep?"
"Then leave it down here," JaeJoong shrugged, clapping HyunJoong on the shoulder and pulling him towards the door. "Come on. Let's get some drinks and forget about weird presents and weird people."
"Yeah, right," HyunJoong nodded, glancing down at the key in his hand before stuffing it in his pocket. He'd deal with whatever this thing was in the morning.
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After a long night of drinking and games, HyunJoong wasn't surprised when he woke up with a headache pounding between his ears. The sunlight wasn't helping as it streamed through the curtains onto his bed and straight into his eyes when he cracked them open.
It took a moment for him to see it, but when he saw the purple and white box he nearly screamed, arms flailing as he scurried up to the head of the bed. He had told no one to move the thing to his room, and HyungJoon wouldn't have done it on his own. Eyes narrowing, he flung his blankets off and got out of bed, pulling on sweats and a shirt before stomping out of the room.
The occupant of the guest room was woken up to the door slamming into the wall and a very angry looking HyunJoong in the doorway, hands on hips.
"Did you do it? Or did KyuJong," HyunJoong said, striding forward into the room and yanking the covers off of him.
JaeJoong yelped, clinging to the thin sheet and trying to get out of HyunJoong's way. "Do what? You've gone crazy. I knew you shouldn't have had that shot of tequila, it always messes you up."
"The box, is in my room, did you put it there?" HyunJoong said, dumping the blankets onto the floor, ignoring whatever else it was JaeJoong was sputtering.
"What? Why? Why would I do that?" JaeJoong stared at HyunJoong before slowly getting to his feet. Luckily he was still dressed, having passed out as soon as he walked in the door the night before. "I could barely walk, Hyun," JaeJoong said, shaking his head. "Let alone drag a giant box up the stairs and into your room."
"Then it was KyuJong," HyunJoong turned on heel and stomped out, heading towards the other guest room.
It was a repeat of the same thing. HyunJoong ripping off blankets accusing, sputtered sleepy denials from the occupant and a frustrated HyunJoong leaving the room. "Well if it wasn't you two, can someone tell me who it was then?" HyunJoong said, throwing his hands up in the air when he saw HyungJoon scurrying down the hall towards them. "HyungJoon, did you do that?"
"Do what?" the assistant said with wide eyes. One of the servants had gone to fetch him when the commotion started, and had no idea what would have got HyunJoong into such a tither.
"That," HyunJoong pointed back to his room. The assistant frowned slightly, heading towards HyunJoong's door and peeking in. He turned back to look at HyunJoong.
"You mean the box?" he asked, confused. "You told me to bring it up."
"I.... what?" HyunJoong blinked and shook his head. "No, no I didn't."
"Yes... you did," HyungJoon said, looking at HyunJoong strangely. "Last night, you came to my room and told me to have it brought to your room. You were pretty drunk."
HyunJoong stared dumbstruck at HyungJoon. "Why in the world would I have done that?" he said after a moment and the assistant shook his head, shrugging.
"I have no idea, sir," HyungJoon said. "But you definitely did."
"Didn't YoungSaeng say it was supposed to stay in your room?" JaeJoong asked, coming up beside HyunJoong.
"Who's YoungSaeng?" HyungJoon asked, frowning a little. "I don't remember a YoungSaeng on the guest list."
"He was the one who sent the Harlequin," HyunJoong said, rubbing at his head. His headache was getting worse.
"The what?" HyungJoon blinked. "Harlequin? Like the character?"
"Show him," JaeJoong nudged HyunJoong's shoulder and HyunJoong resisted the urge to his his friend.
"Fine," HyunJoong huffed, brushing past his assistant. Picking up the key he had set on the bedside table the night before, he went over to the box, sticking the key into the keyhole and unlocking it. The door popped ajar again and he pulled it open.
HyungJoon's jaw dropped when he saw the harlequin figure standing inside. Stepping closer when the two friends crowded him into the room, he blinked repeatedly. "What is that?"
"A harlequin, whatever that means," HyunJoong said, looking at the figure inside. Stepping into the box, he eyed the figure's face, frowning a little at just how real the thing looked. Reaching around the back, his fingers searched for whatever it was that YoungSaeng had fiddled with the night before to get the thing to move. There was a metal tab sticking out between the shoulder blades, and after fussing with it, he managed to get it to turn two clicks. The harlequin's eyes opened and HyunJoong stumbled back.
"Freaky," HyungJoon murmured, watching the harlequin step out of the box. Once again, the thing started to dance and leap about the room, careful not to hit anyone else or any furniture. "So.. did he say why he gave you this?"
"No, just that I'd understand later or something," HyunJoong said, watching the harlequin move around the room until it suddenly stopped. "He also said it had to be kept in my room, but wouldn't tell me why." He started towards the figure to bring it back to the box.
"Hey what's this?" JaeJoong asked. He'd been studying the box in interest and pointed at something on the inside of the door. HyunJoong came over and looked at what he was pointing at. "It looks like a counter or something, you know, like an odometer?"
HyunJoong frowned, looking at the three numbers on the door. "One hundred? One hundred what?"
"Why are you asking me?" JaeJoong snorted, leaning down to get a closer look at it.
"Maybe it's how many times the thing has been opened?" HyungJoon suggested, still eyeing the harlequin who hadn't moved.
"No, YoungSaeng said that it hadn't been opened before," HyunJoong said. "Or, something to that affect."
"So what are you going to do with it?" JaeJoong asked, stepping out of the way so HyunJoong could bring the harlequin back over and put it into the box.
"I have no idea. What do I need something like this for?" HyunJoong said, closing the box back up and taking out the key. "I don't think I'll be able to get rid of it either."
"Probably not," KyuJong said softly, looking at the box. "Maybe you should look into the history of the harlequin. Maybe it'll help?"
"Right, cause I have time for that," HyunJoong snorted, shaking his head. "I'll get one of my people on it, see what they can find out about this and who YoungSaeng is. I don't really appreciate party crashers and strange gifts. What if this thing is going to just kill me in my sleep?"
"I don't see how, unless you think it comes alive at night," KyuJong chuckled, ignoring the glare from HyunJoong.
"Not helpful," HyunJoong grumbled, shooing everyone out of his room. "Alright, everyone out, I have to get ready and some work to do. Kyu, Jae, I'll see you two later I'm sure."
"Of course," JaeJoong mock bowed in deference and headed out, dragging KyuJong with him.
"HyungJoon, get someone on this thing, see what you can find out," HyunJoong said to his assistant who nodded.
"Right away sir," HyungJoon said, shutting the door behind him.
Sighing, HyunJoong turned back to the box in the corner of the room. "You can just stand there being creepy," he said, heading towards his bathroom to get ready. At least the door of the box was closed. He didn't think he could stand it if he left the door open and see that thing inside. It was creepy. Regardless, he shut and locked the door to this bathroom anyway.
....continue