DAY 2: Not So Bad After All
For: Lovelymvp by: Insanelolipanda
Pairings: Hongbin/Kai, side!D.O/N
Length: >7k
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: implied sexy times (does this need a warning? idk), alcohol use
Summary: Hongbin and Wonshik are best friends, so why is Wonshik hanging out with Kim Jongin all the time?
Notes: Forgive meeeee, I may have deviated from your prompt a bit but I really hope you like this fic!!
Like all incoming freshmen, Hongbin had been nervous about starting college. It was his first time away from home, campus being a good three hour drive from his hometown, and while he had enjoyed a pretty decent social life in high school this was college - and a school with one of the highest ranked fine arts programs in the country at that. The only thing that had stopped him from turning around and chasing down his parents’ car when he had spied intimidatingly artsy upperclassmen milling about the quad, clutching acoustic guitars and cups of coffee, was the firm hand of his best friend Wonshik resting on his shoulder. Hongbin and Wonshik had been inseparable since they were tiny tots, chasing each other around the neighborhood playground while their mothers chatted in the distance. It was really due to Wonshik’s presence that Hongbin had mustered up the courage to apply to their new school, happy that his interest in photography and Wonshik’s in music allowed them to look at the same colleges. Thankfully, they had settled on the same place, and with his best friend by his side as a fellow student and his roommate, Hongbin looked forward to the two of them starting off their college career together.
One month later and Hongbin’s college life was not panning out exactly as he’d planned. He rolled out of bed and was searching for a hoodie to throw on before he walked down to the dining hall when he detected Wonshik walking out of the bathroom, toweling off his hair.
“Wanna grab breakfast? I’m about to head out,” Hongbin asked as he noted his friend hurriedly gathering his keys and student ID.
“Can’t today, sorry - meeting Jongin at the studio before afternoon classes. See you later!” he shouted into the wind as he slid out the door, leaving a slightly disappointed but not entirely surprised Hongbin in his wake.
“Of course...Jongin…” Over the past month Hongbin had quickly grown tired of hearing the name Kim Jongin. A few days after their arrival, Wonshik had gravitated towards the hip-hop dance club’s table at the school activities fair and started talking music with fellow first year and dance prodigy Kim Jongin. Jongin, as Hongbin had learned from an animated Wonshik, had grown up in the area and already knew a lot of the second and third years. He was also somewhat interested in music, and had secured Wonshik a spot in their dance crew along with the opportunity to use some of his beats for their routines. It seemed that every evening when Wonshik returned to their room he had a new story to tell about how Jongin effortlessly executed some complicated dance move or how a group of third year girls had brought Jongin enough snacks to feed the entire crew, Jongin did this, Jongin knows that, Jongin, Jongin, JONGIN. It had gotten to the point where Hongbin wouldn’t even look up from whatever homework he was doing while Wonshik went on his tangents, preferring to hide his face in a book or pore over some newly developed photographs while he quietly simmered with annoyance at how quickly the dancer had weaseled his way into Wonshik’s inner circle.
It wasn’t that Hongbin had failed to make friends of his own in their first month on campus, he mused as he strolled to the nearby dining hall. There were the other students in the photography department, along with Jaehwan, a second year who was in his figure drawing class, and Kyungsoo, a vocal major and fellow first year in his English class who had been helping him with his pronunciation. He yawned as he waited in the omelette line, hoping they didn’t run out of mushrooms by the time it was his turn. After the long wait he grabbed his tray, careful not to drop his precious spinach and mushroom omelette and glass of orange juice as he swiveled to find a quiet table when he noticed Kyungsoo waving from a spot by the window.
“G’morning,” Hongbin greeted while plopping down in the seat across from his friend, who seemed to have recently arrived himself judging by the nearly full stack of pancakes waiting on his own tray. “What’s up?”
“Not much...you ready for the test next week? It’s supposed to just be a baseline for our midterms but I don’t trust the professor,” Kyungsoo replied before neatly stuffing a forkful of pancakes into his mouth.
“I think it should be okay...wouldn’t say no to some extra study sessions though if you’re interested. Although it’s been pretty easy to study lately with Wonshik off at dance practice all the time,” Hongbin noted, internally adding on “and spending all his free time with his new dance buddy.”
“Oh right the big performance showcase is coming up in a couple months, right? I heard they work the first years especially hard to make sure the dance crew really stands out - their leader is really determined too,” Kyungsoo paused noting Hongbin’s surprised expression. “I know some people involved...the leader was also the head of my orientation group” he said with a shrug and a slight blush that had Hongbin suspecting Kyungsoo had some extra interests in the dance crew’s head man.
Hongbin nodded noncommittally and the two continued to eat their breakfast with minimal conversation, letting a comfortable silence settle in as they geared up to head off to their separate buildings.
*
A couple days later Hongbin found himself being, rather reluctantly, dragged in a direction he generally avoided by his (traitorous) friend Kyungsoo
“Why does it seem like we’re heading towards the dance studios….please tell me this is some roundabout detour to the convenience store to get ice cream or something,” Hongbin said with a slight pleading tone.
“No ice cream today I’m afraid,” Kyungsoo replied cheerfully, “we’re going to watch the dance crew’s evening practice.”
“When I said I didn’t feel like studying, I didn’t mean this. In fact, we should be studying, we should turn around and go to the library…” Hongbin attempted to turn around but found it impossible to escape the grip Kyungsoo had on his wrist. His tiny friend’s strength always surprised and amazed him, although in this moment he couldn’t help but hate it as he continued to be pulled towards the studio.
“We can study in my room this weekend but right now we’re gonna go support the dance crew. Don’t you want to see what your best friend is working so hard to master? I bet he’d be happy to see you take some interest.”
Hongbin sighed because Kyungsoo was right...he had been meaning to show Wonshik more support but he just hated the idea of seeing him laughing and playing around with Jongin. “Alright...although don’t think for a minute that I believe you’re dragging me here just to make sure I’m being a good friend to Wonshik. I wonder if Hakyeon knows about our little visit today...”
Kyungsoo nearly tripped at the mention of the name of the dance crew leader, blushing to the tips of his ears and making Hongbin very glad he’d casually asked Wonshik for the leader’s name the other night as he fought to hold back laughter at his friend’s reaction.
The two walked around to the side of the dance building where a window was perfectly situated to peer inside the main studio. They could hear the music thumping, steady beats matching the sharp movements of the dancers inside. Based on his position at the front of the room, as well as the focus of Kyungsoo’s gaze, Hongbin identified Hakyeon before looking back a couple rows in the formation to spot Wonshik who was - of course - right next to Jongin.
Brief moment of possessiveness over his best friend aside, he had to admit that the crew was amazing - Hongbin didn’t know much about dancing aside from what Wonshik had tried to explain to him before judging that his best friend was hopeless on the dance floor - but they were all moving in unison and every move seemed to fit the rhythm of the music perfectly. He even noted that Jongin really did deserve his “dance prodigy” title as he seemed to come alive as they ran through the routine more and more.
Hongbin was so enthralled that he didn’t notice the music being shut off and the signal for the crew to take a breather until Kyungsoo waved a hand in front of his face, gesturing for him to tap on the window to get his friend’s attention. He tapped his knuckles against the glass quickly, slightly shocked when it was Jongin who first noticed and directed Wonshik to look at the window before shyly looking away. He didn’t really have time to process Jongin’s shyness, however, as he waved to his best friend who was grinning from ear to ear, waving frantically before holding up a finger signaling him to wait a moment as he appeared to go look for his bag. As Wonshik turned to search, Hongbin noticed Jongin seemed to be resolutely avoiding gazing in the window’s direction. He wondered if Wonshik had picked up on Hongbin’s envy at their friendship and said something to the other dancer when he felt his phone vibrate in his pocket and pulled it out to find a text from Wonshik, who had returned and was waving his own phone at the window.
Ravehhhhhhh:
So happy you stopped by today!!! ♥♥♥ :) :) :) Practice will run late tonight so don’t worry about waiting around for me - see you back at the dorm!
Hongbin chuckled goodnaturedly at all the hearts and smileys before dashing out a quick, “ok, see you later and you guys look great!” before sharing Wonshik’s message about the late practice with Kyungsoo and heading out after a last wave goodbye through the window. From that distance, he didn’t notice Jongin exhale and stare at the image of his retreating back as the spectating pair walked away.
*
Two days passed and Hongbin, a few hours after waving goodbye to a sleepy Wonshik making his way out to a dance practice that started at an hour far too early for the weekend, made his way to Kyungsoo’s dorm for their promised English study session. After finding the room, he knocked on the door in much the same manner as he had the studio window until his friend finally swung the door open.
“You would be on time on a Saturday morning...I could’ve gone for a few more minutes of doing nothing,” Kyungsoo yawned as he ushered Hongbin into the small room.
“It’s eleven thirty...look alive, we’ve got studying to do,” Hongbin grinned, ignoring Kyungsoo’s sleepy glare as he plopped down on the nearest bed and began spreading out his notes.
“That’s the wrong bed but my roommate shouldn’t mind,” Kyungsoo said as he sat on his own bed, beginning to open his notes as he faced Hongbin. “He’s out right now and probably won’t be back for a while.”
Hongbin hummed in acknowledgment as they began reviewing materials that were likely to appear on Monday’s exam. After three or so hours of studying - with the occasional break for lunch and snacks sprinkled in here and there - the door suddenly opened and a tall, somewhat sweaty boy spun into the room with a “Hey Soo, I’m back from practice,” hands reaching to pull off his shirt so he could head to the shower before he locked eyes with the person sitting on his bed.
Hongbin stared as Jongin stood there, dark bangs slightly obscuring his face and dripping sweat, the loose tank top he was wearing similarly soaked to the point that it was barely serving its purpose as a shirt at all. He hadn’t expected for Kyungsoo’s roommate to be Jongin, and he definitely hadn’t expected him to walk through the door while lifting his shirt, revealing a sliver of defined abs peeking above Calvin Klein boxer briefs.
Kyungsoo looked up from his notes, smirking slightly as he noted his roommate and friend staring at each other, twin looks of shock on their faces. “Sorry to use your bed Jongin, I told you a friend was coming over to study right?” Kyungsoo said innocently, his expression not at all matching his tone of voice.
“Yeah I just uh-I didn’t realize-” Jongin stumbled over his words, hands still fisted around the hem of his tank top.
Kyungsoo, clearly enjoying his roommate’s embarrassment, jumped in once more. “I guess you haven’t formally met Hongbin yet have you? He’s Wonshik’s roommate and long time friend - I’m sure he’s mentioned him.” Jongin nodded in response, clearly wishing he were anywhere else while Hongbin was still sitting on the bed stunned - though his gaze had moved from Jongin’s face to the floor. “You know since we’re roommates and Hongbin and Wonshik are roommates, and I’m already friends with Hongbin and you’re already friends with Wonshik, we should really all hang out sometime. Oh! Let’s start eating lunch together. You guys don’t have practice then right?”
Hongbin’s head shot up at Kyungsoo’s words, giving his friend a look that was somewhere between menacing and desperate and hoping he could mentally send him the message to stop. Jongin squeaked out a tiny “well no we don’t-” when Kyungsoo jumped in with a “Great, it’s settled - let’s meet at the dining hall around one so you guys have time to shower and change after your morning practice. Speaking of, you could use a shower now actually,” he added the last part nonchalantly and drew great pleasure in watching Jongin turn red as he practically ran into the bathroom, quickly remembering his manners and mumbling a “nice to meet you” in Hongbin’s general direction before he disappeared completely.
Jongin now safely behind the locked bathroom door, Hongbin found his voice again and hissed at Kyungsoo “What are you doing??” While he didn’t necessarily think of Jongin as an enemy, he still wasn’t the fondest of the dancer that took up so much of his best friend’s time. Not to mention the way his mouth had gone dry when Jongin was unknowingly starting to strip in front of him, he thought to himself before shaking the notion away.
“I’m just merging our friend circles - we all mostly knew each other anyway, it makes sense.” Kyungsoo kept a carefully blank face as Hongbin groaned into his hands. The two remained silent for a moment before Kyungsoo had a moment of realization. “You know, in his haste I don’t think Jongin took any clothes into the bathroom with him.” Hongbin’s mouth went dry again as images of a freshly showered Jongin sauntering out in nothing but a towel flashed through his mind and he hurriedly began collecting his things.
“I’m just gonna go ahead and finish studying at home, we got through a lot anyway - see you in class Monday,” he blurted out, nearly tripping as he tried to step into his shoes
Kyungsoo fought back a slight laugh as he replied, “see you Monday,” to a very frazzled Hongbin who was already halfway out the door.
*
Much to Hongbin’s initial dismay, the lunches with the roommate pairs actually became a normal thing. Kyungsoo and Hongbin would always arrive first, with Wonshik and Jongin joining them a few minutes later - both having come from their respective dorms after a post-practice shower. Although it was somewhat awkward at first, mainly due to Hongbin and Jongin freezing up whenever the flow of conversation dictated they speak to each other, the foursome soon settled into a happy rhythm. Wonshik and Kyungsoo got along well, discussing their favorite types of music and even began to talk about making a song together once Kyungsoo learned that Wonshik enjoyed rapping in addition to his songwriting and production studies. The two of them would inevitably end up drawing Hongbin and Jongin into the conversation until they didn’t even realize they were speaking to each other comfortably.
As evening dance practices continued, Hongbin and Kyungsoo visited more frequently, occasionally toting bottles of water and snacks for their friends to replenish their energy during breaks. Wonshik was often busy, having been dragged into ‘Operation Help-Kyungsoo-Snag-Hakyeon;’ while his best friend played matchmaker, Hongbin found himself chatting one-on-one with Jongin more since he was the only other member of the dance crew he really knew.
Hongbin was reluctantly beginning to find Jongin’s company enjoyable. The first time the two had been left to converse alone, the awkward silence had dragged on until Jongin had sheepishly gone to ask one of the other dancers a question while Hongbin messed around on his phone. Sheerly out of desire to avoid another similarly awkward situation, the next time Hongbin was left alone with the other boy he decided to spark conversation by asking him what made him start dancing. That one question had immediately brought Jongin out of his shell, eyes lighting up as he talked about the first time he saw idols on TV and how instead of obsessing over the songs he was entranced by the backup dancers, and how when he was dancing he felt weightless - like it was a true out-of-body experience. Initial jealousy fading, Hongbin was starting to see how Jongin, this Jongin when he’s talking about dance or plopping down after a tiring but satisfying practice, had become Wonshik’s friend so quickly. The dancer was actually quite likeable, and when he started asking Hongbin about his photography he managed to break through the last of his walls.
Friendship fully solidified, Hongbin was now experiencing firsthand that Jongin was a very touchy-feely person. He hadn’t noticed before, how the dance student would drape an arm around Wonshik’s shoulders when they walked together or rest his chin on Kyungsoo’s head or shoulder to get his roommate’s attention. Now that he was on the receiving end of the skinship, however, Hongbin was definitely aware of Jongin’s presence. Oddly enough, the realization didn’t help Hongbin notice that Jongin was extra touchy with him. It didn’t register that although Jongin did stick close to everyone, he didn’t naturally wrap his arm around anyone else’s waist and let his fingers dance along shirt hemlines when standing next to them, and he wouldn’t rest his head on anyone else’s lap when he was tired after what felt like an eternity of continuous practice, content to relax there with his eyes closed for the few precious minutes Hakyeon gave them to rest between running different stretches of choreography. Even when Jongin came over to their room to talk to Wonshik he would drape himself around Hongbin’s shoulders as a greeting.
Wonshik and Kyungsoo grew more and more amused as Jongin became increasingly more touchy with Hongbin, who had yet to connect the dots and notice his former friendship rival’s feelings. Jongin was getting restless though, and had begun to flood Kyungsoo’s phone with an onslaught of somewhat pathetic texts.
Dancing Boy:
Soo Soo :( I’ve been flirting with Hongbin for like 3 weeks why hasn’t he noticed :(
Tiny but Dangerous:
First of all don’t call me ‘Soo Soo’ ever again or you can kiss any dreams of ever being able to fuck your crush goodbye
Dancing Boy:
Actually I want him to fuck me
Tiny but Dangerous:
Wow that is way more information than I needed. Anyway Wonshik said he’s just really oblivious, always has been. Try harder.
Dancing Boy:
That isn’t actually advice :(
Tiny but Dangerous:
Sounds like a personal problem.
Truthfully, Jongin actually had a better chance than he thought. Although he was feeling dejected from the lack of obvious reciprocation from Hongbin, his friends had long since noticed how their photography-loving friend would blush after one of Jongin’s lingering touches, only letting the flush hit his face when the other boy wasn’t looking. Not to mention that, during his and Kyungsoo’s visits to dance practices, Hongbin had ceased to focus on Wonshik, instead keeping his eyes glued to Jongin as he hit every dance move with key precision. Hongbin even asked Jongin to be his model on a project using action photography, something highly uncharacteristic for him as Wonshik pointed out that he’d always preferred photographing landscapes or cityscapes.
Unfortunately for Jongin, the upcoming showcase and accompanying increase in dance practices had left him few chances to spend any time with Hongbin. Their morning practices had been extended to include lunch, and Hakyeon had - somewhat reluctantly - told Kyungsoo and Hongbin that in order to keep the final touches on their choreography for the showcase a secret they couldn’t stop by for the time being.
Hongbin hadn’t expected to miss Jongin’s presence, but with the dancer’s absence he had found that he felt a bit like something was...missing. When Wonshik would come stumbling back into their room, half dead after a grueling practice, he would occasionally ask how things were going in a thinly veiled attempt at checking in on the other dancer. It wasn’t the same as having Jongin come over and flop onto his bed whining about how Hakyeon was working them to the bone, but he would take any little updates he could get.
After a couple weeks of very little contact with Jongin, Hongbin was surprised when mere days before the showcase a text from the other boy popped up on his phone.
Dancing Boy:
Hey, you busy?
Artwork:
Not at all, especially not compared to you. What’s up?
Dancing Boy:
Wanted to ask you something, I’m outside your building - can you come down?
Hongbin blinked rapidly in surprise as he quickly texted Jongin “sure” and threw on a light jacket and some shoes before rushing out the door.
“Hey,” Jongin greeted quietly, his posture betraying a level of nervousness that Hongbin hadn’t seen from him since they’d moved past their initial awkwardness. “Sorry to just show up like this…”
“It’s fine! It’s nice to actually see you face-to-face, you’ve been so busy lately. If I didn’t live with Wonshik I probably wouldn’t see him either, they’ve really been working you guys hard. I’ve missed hanging out though.”
Jongin looked up suddenly, the slight flush that rose to his cheeks not quite visible in the dim evening, “You missed me?”
Hongbin brought a hand up, sheepishly scratching at the back of his neck. “Well...yeah, I didn’t realize how much I’ve gotten used to our conversations and being around you at the dance studio or in one of our dorms...it just kinda hit me since you’ve been so busy lat-” His words were cut off by a gentle pressure against his lips and he blinked rapidly, dimly registering that he was being kissed by Jongin.
Before Hongbin could finish processing what was happening, the pressure was gone as Jongin stepped back, flushed face now completely apparent. “You don’t have to answer me now - in fact I’d rather you wait until after the showcase - but I really like you and would like it if you’d be my boyfriend-” Hongbin opened his mouth to speak before Jongin held up a hand in gesture signaling him to stop. “Like I said, I don’t want your answer yet, just...think about it.” He leaned in and gave Hongbin a fleeting peck on the lips before waving goodbye as he hurriedly made his way to his own dorm building, leaving a stunned Hongbin standing outside of his dorm for a few solid minutes until he was able to make his way back upstairs.
*
The next few days passed in a blur, Hongbin having gone over the kiss in his mind a million times, sorting out his feelings as the showcase - and the day he needed to have an answer for Jongin - approached. He’d briefly discussed what happened with an exhausted Wonshik the night of the fateful confession, only to get a reply of “finally” as his friend flopped onto his bed and promptly fell asleep. Kyungsoo had given him the longer, but only slightly more helpful, answer of “I swear to god you can’t actually be unsure right now,” and had proceeded to text Hongbin pictures of Jongin he’d obviously taken without permission, including some of him fresh out of the shower in nothing but basketball shorts, as though Hongbin needed his judgment clouded by wet, half-naked Jongin photos.
Finally the day of the showcase arrived, and while Hongbin was nervous about the conversation he would have to have with Jongin soon, he was mostly excited to see the final product of the crew’s hard work over the past several weeks. He met up with Kyungsoo in front of the auditorium, the two making it there early to make sure they snagged the best seats. They had a handful of performances to sit through before it was time for the dance crew to go on, some being quite good - the acapella group composed of third year vocal majors was heavenly - and some others...well, baton twirling isn’t for everyone, as the entire audience learned, collectively wincing when one first year caught her baton with her face.
Finally it was time for the crew’s performance. The lights dimmed low, making it impossible for the audience to see the stage as the music slowly began to raise in volume, bass causing the seats to vibrate slightly. Suddenly a spotlight appeared at center stage, illuminating Hakyeon, who stood in the center of the stage blindfolded.
“So this is what he wanted to keep secret,” Kyungsoo practically breathed out the words as Hongbin nodded silently, eyes glued to the stage as two figures had moved onto the stage to turn Hakyeon’s solo into a trio and he quickly recognized one as Jongin. He knew from conversations they’d had that Jongin’s initial dance training had all been more closely related to ballet, but Hongbin had never seen the other boy do a routine outside of the crew’s general hip-hop style. Hakyeon, Jongin, and the third dancer - Hongbin thought it was one of the third years - captivated the audience with a haunting modern dance performance, ending with Hakyeon in a backbend ripping off his blindfold as the music abruptly changed and the three ran off stage as Wonshik and another of the members - a fellow first-year, Sehun - moved into an exciting b-boy routine.
As Wonshik and Sehun ended their performance with synchronized backspins, the music changed to a mashup of some songs that had been on the radio a lot recently - Voodoo and Black Pearl - and the rest of the crew joined them on the stage into the main routine that Kyungsoo and Hongbin had caught glimpses of in earlier practices. Some of the original choreo from the songs was mixed in with various moves highlighting the different backgrounds of the dance crew members. Everyone had a chance to have a solo moment in the spotlight - starting with Hakyeon, as the eldest and leader, and continuing down all the way to the first years. Wonshik ended his moment with a backflip before he returned to his spot and playfully nudged Jongin into the center. Hongbin’s breath hitched as he watched Jongin start with a pirouette and then transition from classical dance to a fluid body wave that had at least half the audience squealing. The way Jongin moved felt unreal, the grace and seamlessness in every movement had Hongbin blushing, thinking of what it would be like if Jongin moved like that against him.
By the time Hongbin shook himself out of his fantasy, the crew was taking a bow and heading off stage and Kyungsoo was grabbing his hand and gesturing to follow him to the side of the auditorium. “After the student body president is done with his closing speech we can go congratulate everyone backstage, but we’ve gotta beat the crowd,” the shorter boy explained as he dragged a still somewhat dazed Hongbin to a prime spot to make it backstage.
Thanks to Kyungsoo’s planning, the two managed to zip backstage before nearly anyone else, although they were still faced with a crowd of performers and showcase student staff to navigate through. It took Hongbin spotting Wonshik’s arm flailing about above the crowd as a frantic signal for them to find the small dressing room backstage that the dance crew had claimed, excess members waiting in the wings or simply opting to strip in the hall as Hakyeon did, much to the delight of Kyungsoo, whose staring was less than subtle and, from Hongbin’s perspective, somewhat frightening.
A tap on his shoulder drew Hongbin’s attention away from the odd spectacle occurring in front of him and towards a shy Jongin who had just emerged from the dressing room, now in a black tank with armholes so wide they were basically pointless and jeans that seemed to be painted on. Hongbin didn’t realize he was spacing out until his eyes had made their way to Jongin’s lips and he realized they were moving in a manner that implied speech patterns were being emitted.
“...really glad you came to the show tonight,” Jongin said, voice barely rising above a whisper as he leaned forward to speak almost directly into Hongbin’s ear.
“Of course, I wouldn’t have missed it for anything,” Hongbin said, flushing a little at Jongin’s continued proximity. “About the other day…”
“YOOOO the after party’s about to start, you guys are coming right?,” Wonshik interrupted, slinging an arm over each of their shoulders.
“Of course, of course, I’ll head over to our fearsome leader’s place in a minute - wait for me outside,” Jongin laughed while gently shooing Wonshik away. “Looks like I’ve gotta head out soon...see you at the party?” he threw the question over his shoulder as he hurried to meet up with Wonshik and some of the other dancers, pausing briefly only to see a nod of confirmation from Hongbin before sprinting off.
Hongbin met Kyungsoo’s eyes as the crowd thinned out, most of the crew having headed out already. For a moment he considered not going to the party, nerves kicking in and eyes pleading, but he could tell from his friend’s deadpan, wide-eyed stare that he had no say in the matter. As Kyungsoo walked off in the direction of the exit, Hongbin sighed and begrudgingly ran a bit to catch up and fall into step next to his friend.
*
Hakyeon’s apartment was packed with dance crew members, friends of the crew, and people who had found out there was going to be free alcohol. Holding onto Kyungsoo’s wrist, Hongbin guided the two of them in the direction he assumed the kitchen was, judging by the direction of crowd flow and the increased amount of people toting red solo cups the further they went along.
“I need a drink before I can do this,” Hongbin said with a sigh, finding what appeared to be a clean cup and ladling some of the punch that he assumed - and hoped at this point - was at least half vodka. He gulped it down as quickly as he could, going to fix himself another cup as he noticed his friend staring at him, eyes clearly full of judgment.
Refilled red cup in hand, Hongbin turned away from the punch bowl. “I’ll stop after this one I just...I’m not good at parties. Or confessions. Stop judging me!”
“Good to know you’ve finally made up your mind on what to say to Jongin but I’m not about to let you get so drunk you pass out without making your move,” Kyungsoo began, shushing Hongbin as he was about to protest. “NOW then...Jongin is hanging out near the speakers with some of the other dancers. I think Wonshik is over there too if you need another face to look for. If you’ll excuse me, Hakyeon is on his couch and I have moves of my own to make - good luck!”
Left behind with a pat on the back and a vague sense of confusion at how Kyungsoo managed to scope the crowded apartment so quickly, Hongbin took another sip of his punch before heading in the direction of the speakers where he distantly spotted Jongin chatting with Wonshik and Sehun. As he nudged his way through the drunken crowd he considered turning back, sparing himself the embarrassment. What if Jongin had changed his mind between the night of the kiss and now? Just as he considered sneaking away behind the cover of a group of girls heading past, Wonshik spotted him and called out, waving him over. Hongbin took a deep breath as he waved back, heading over and trying to calm his nerves with the fact that Jongin had perked up when Wonshik had called out his name - as though he truly had been waiting for him to arrive at the party.
“Hongbiiiiiiiin, my bestest friend you made iiiiiiit,” Wonshik slung an arm around Hongbin’s shoulder, pulling him into a hug before partially releasing him as they stood side-by-side. Sehun and Jongin snickered in the background as Hongbin just looked at his friend with mild disbelief.
“How in the world did you get so drunk so fast...you only got here twenty minutes before me!”
“Someone had to taste test the punch! I think it’s suuuuper tasty!!! Ravehhhhhhhhhhh!!!” Wonshik threw his arm up in the air in some sort of victory punch and almost fell to the ground.
“Okay somebody needs to sit down and drink some water,” Hongbin said, preparing to haul his obviously wasted friend outside for some fresh air until he felt someone else lift up some of the dead weight.
“I’ll do it - I was technically supposed to make sure he didn’t get too drunk perfecting the punch but watching the effects of him drinking full cups every time we changed something instead of just taking small swigs was too hilarious to pass up,” Sehun said as he helped Wonshik lean up against his side with an arm around his shoulder. “You can keep Jongin company,” he wiggled his eyebrows suggestively as Jongin punched him in the arm, his face flushed as he pouted angrily. Sehun just laughed as he walked away, babbling Wonshik in tow.
Left alone, Hongbin was suddenly hyper-aware of Jongin’s presence. He finished the last of his drink and placed his cup in a stack of others near the main speaker - he didn’t envy whoever Hakyeon was going to make clean this place later. He opened his mouth to speak but Jongin beat him to it.
“I know I kind of...sprung my feelings on you the other day and I’m sorry,” Hongbin tried to interject but Jongin continued, “I still do really like you but I also don’t wanna mess up our friendship so even if you say no I still…..want to be your friend,” Jongin trailed off as he shyly held one arm in front of him, looking down as he worried his bottom lip between his teeth.
Hongbin looked at the shy boy before him who was refusing to make eye contact and smiled, his nerves now nonexistent. “But what if I don’t want to be your friend?” Hongbin observed as Jongin’s head shot up, fear flashing across his face. “Let me finish - what if I’d rather be your boyfriend?” The fear in Jongin’s face was quickly replaced by surprise, before he fully processed the question and his gaze slowly became more intense.
“Well, in that case...I think we should get out of here,” Jongin murmured as he rested his hands on Hongbin’s hips and pulled him closer. They stared at each other for a moment, faces mere inches apart, before Hongbin leaned in and pressed their lips together. He could feel the last whispers of tension and nerves melting away from Jongin as the dancer deepened the kiss, backing away with an attractive twinkle in his eye. “Yep, definitely think we should get out of here. My dorm’s closer and the better option I think.”
Still blushing slightly from the kiss and the knowledge that Jongin was now his boyfriend Hongbin blinked before asking, “What about Kyungsoo? I don’t think he’d forgive either of us if he walked in on...anything.”
Jongin merely laughed and gently turned his new boyfriend so that he had a view of the couch. “I don’t think he’s coming home tonight,” he said as they both looked over and found that Kyungsoo had indeed made his moves which involved 1) plopping himself onto Hakyeon’s lap and 2) making out with him to the point that it seemed that their faces were glued together.
“That...is not something I really needed to see,” Hongbin said with little actual bite in his voice - he was happy that his friend had succeeded as well, although more publicly than expected.
“Same. So in the interest of not being around as they…progress, why don’t we….” Jongin gestured towards the door, other hand resting on Hongbin’s waist. The other boy nodded in agreement as they walked out of the party and into the night, world reduced to just the two of them.
*
Although the two had managed to hold themselves back during the walk to Jongin’s dorm room, the moment they reached his door he seemed far more interested in exploring Hongbin’s mouth than fishing out his keys.
“Inside….please,” Hongbin whined as Jongin began trailing his lips lower, fixated on sucking a mark in the hollow where his neck meets his collarbone. Jongin answered with a sharp bite to the already slightly pink spot before finally retrieving his keys and opening the door, all but pushing Hongbin inside.
Hongbin fell back onto the bed, feeling the chill from a lack of body heat for just a few moments before Jongin was over him, straddling his hips and leaning down for another kiss. There was a sense of urgency in the way Jongin kissed, as though Hongbin would disappear at any moment. Hongbin brought his arms up to wrap around the dancer’s back reassuringly, fingers skimming across the surface until they were lingering around his hips, waiting for invitation to go further.
Jongin rocked back, looking at Hongbin with a slight twinkle in his eye. “So you do top,” he breathed out earning a light slap on the ass from the boy beneath him.
“Is that a problem?” Hongbin asked playfully, hands already dipping further down the other boy’s body.
Jongin brought a hand between the two of them, fingers trailing down Hongbin’s abs. “Quite the opposite, that means we can put this,” he cupped Hongbin through his jeans, drawing a hiss from the pinned boy, “to good use.”
The two exchanged a look, Hongbin answering the devilish challenge in Jongin’s eye, and decided to show him just how much he liked that idea.
*
Spring rays of sunshine fell onto the quad, many of the students having opted to enjoy lunch outdoors to take advantage of the newly warm weather. Jongin was sprawled out on the grass, head resting in Hongbin’s lap, humming as Hongbin stroked his hair absentmindedly. Four months had passed since the showcase and the photography student didn’t think he’d ever been happier. Winter Break had followed soon after the couple formed, and Jongin had texted Hongbin every day proclaiming how much he missed him with everything from sad emoticons, pouty-faced selcas, and messages whining about how his fingers just aren’t enough anymore. Hongbin may or may not have saved a few of those to get through the quieter evenings that weren’t spent playing video games with Wonshik.
Now, with spring in the air, Hongbin looked around him at his friends - Hakyeon and Kyungsoo were feeding each other lunch as Wonshik glanced over while mumbling “I need more single friends, you guys are gross.” Across the quad he could see Jaehwan talking to the model from their fall class - Taekwoon - and he waved until his attention was drawn by a tug on the bottom of his shirt.
“You stopped stroking my hair when you started waving,” Jongin murmured sleepily, lips slightly pouted in an all-too-inviting manner that had Hongbin leaning down to give him a quick peck on the mouth.
“Sorry love,” Hongbin said, fingers curling through Jongin’s hair and picking up where he left off. Like this, surrounded by people he loves and with a boyfriend he couldn’t have dreamed up, Hongbin was pretty sure the rest of his college years were going to be amazing.
Note: I’m so sappy it’s disgusting omg. Also, the remix I referenced actually exists here - https://soundcloud.com/djdoushitekimi (not mine)
Thanks for reading!!!
Pairings: Hongbin/Kai, side!D.O/N
Length: >7k
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: implied sexy times (does this need a warning? idk), alcohol use
Summary: Hongbin and Wonshik are best friends, so why is Wonshik hanging out with Kim Jongin all the time?
Notes: Forgive meeeee, I may have deviated from your prompt a bit but I really hope you like this fic!!
Like all incoming freshmen, Hongbin had been nervous about starting college. It was his first time away from home, campus being a good three hour drive from his hometown, and while he had enjoyed a pretty decent social life in high school this was college - and a school with one of the highest ranked fine arts programs in the country at that. The only thing that had stopped him from turning around and chasing down his parents’ car when he had spied intimidatingly artsy upperclassmen milling about the quad, clutching acoustic guitars and cups of coffee, was the firm hand of his best friend Wonshik resting on his shoulder. Hongbin and Wonshik had been inseparable since they were tiny tots, chasing each other around the neighborhood playground while their mothers chatted in the distance. It was really due to Wonshik’s presence that Hongbin had mustered up the courage to apply to their new school, happy that his interest in photography and Wonshik’s in music allowed them to look at the same colleges. Thankfully, they had settled on the same place, and with his best friend by his side as a fellow student and his roommate, Hongbin looked forward to the two of them starting off their college career together.
One month later and Hongbin’s college life was not panning out exactly as he’d planned. He rolled out of bed and was searching for a hoodie to throw on before he walked down to the dining hall when he detected Wonshik walking out of the bathroom, toweling off his hair.
“Wanna grab breakfast? I’m about to head out,” Hongbin asked as he noted his friend hurriedly gathering his keys and student ID.
“Can’t today, sorry - meeting Jongin at the studio before afternoon classes. See you later!” he shouted into the wind as he slid out the door, leaving a slightly disappointed but not entirely surprised Hongbin in his wake.
“Of course...Jongin…” Over the past month Hongbin had quickly grown tired of hearing the name Kim Jongin. A few days after their arrival, Wonshik had gravitated towards the hip-hop dance club’s table at the school activities fair and started talking music with fellow first year and dance prodigy Kim Jongin. Jongin, as Hongbin had learned from an animated Wonshik, had grown up in the area and already knew a lot of the second and third years. He was also somewhat interested in music, and had secured Wonshik a spot in their dance crew along with the opportunity to use some of his beats for their routines. It seemed that every evening when Wonshik returned to their room he had a new story to tell about how Jongin effortlessly executed some complicated dance move or how a group of third year girls had brought Jongin enough snacks to feed the entire crew, Jongin did this, Jongin knows that, Jongin, Jongin, JONGIN. It had gotten to the point where Hongbin wouldn’t even look up from whatever homework he was doing while Wonshik went on his tangents, preferring to hide his face in a book or pore over some newly developed photographs while he quietly simmered with annoyance at how quickly the dancer had weaseled his way into Wonshik’s inner circle.
It wasn’t that Hongbin had failed to make friends of his own in their first month on campus, he mused as he strolled to the nearby dining hall. There were the other students in the photography department, along with Jaehwan, a second year who was in his figure drawing class, and Kyungsoo, a vocal major and fellow first year in his English class who had been helping him with his pronunciation. He yawned as he waited in the omelette line, hoping they didn’t run out of mushrooms by the time it was his turn. After the long wait he grabbed his tray, careful not to drop his precious spinach and mushroom omelette and glass of orange juice as he swiveled to find a quiet table when he noticed Kyungsoo waving from a spot by the window.
“G’morning,” Hongbin greeted while plopping down in the seat across from his friend, who seemed to have recently arrived himself judging by the nearly full stack of pancakes waiting on his own tray. “What’s up?”
“Not much...you ready for the test next week? It’s supposed to just be a baseline for our midterms but I don’t trust the professor,” Kyungsoo replied before neatly stuffing a forkful of pancakes into his mouth.
“I think it should be okay...wouldn’t say no to some extra study sessions though if you’re interested. Although it’s been pretty easy to study lately with Wonshik off at dance practice all the time,” Hongbin noted, internally adding on “and spending all his free time with his new dance buddy.”
“Oh right the big performance showcase is coming up in a couple months, right? I heard they work the first years especially hard to make sure the dance crew really stands out - their leader is really determined too,” Kyungsoo paused noting Hongbin’s surprised expression. “I know some people involved...the leader was also the head of my orientation group” he said with a shrug and a slight blush that had Hongbin suspecting Kyungsoo had some extra interests in the dance crew’s head man.
Hongbin nodded noncommittally and the two continued to eat their breakfast with minimal conversation, letting a comfortable silence settle in as they geared up to head off to their separate buildings.
*
A couple days later Hongbin found himself being, rather reluctantly, dragged in a direction he generally avoided by his (traitorous) friend Kyungsoo
“Why does it seem like we’re heading towards the dance studios….please tell me this is some roundabout detour to the convenience store to get ice cream or something,” Hongbin said with a slight pleading tone.
“No ice cream today I’m afraid,” Kyungsoo replied cheerfully, “we’re going to watch the dance crew’s evening practice.”
“When I said I didn’t feel like studying, I didn’t mean this. In fact, we should be studying, we should turn around and go to the library…” Hongbin attempted to turn around but found it impossible to escape the grip Kyungsoo had on his wrist. His tiny friend’s strength always surprised and amazed him, although in this moment he couldn’t help but hate it as he continued to be pulled towards the studio.
“We can study in my room this weekend but right now we’re gonna go support the dance crew. Don’t you want to see what your best friend is working so hard to master? I bet he’d be happy to see you take some interest.”
Hongbin sighed because Kyungsoo was right...he had been meaning to show Wonshik more support but he just hated the idea of seeing him laughing and playing around with Jongin. “Alright...although don’t think for a minute that I believe you’re dragging me here just to make sure I’m being a good friend to Wonshik. I wonder if Hakyeon knows about our little visit today...”
Kyungsoo nearly tripped at the mention of the name of the dance crew leader, blushing to the tips of his ears and making Hongbin very glad he’d casually asked Wonshik for the leader’s name the other night as he fought to hold back laughter at his friend’s reaction.
The two walked around to the side of the dance building where a window was perfectly situated to peer inside the main studio. They could hear the music thumping, steady beats matching the sharp movements of the dancers inside. Based on his position at the front of the room, as well as the focus of Kyungsoo’s gaze, Hongbin identified Hakyeon before looking back a couple rows in the formation to spot Wonshik who was - of course - right next to Jongin.
Brief moment of possessiveness over his best friend aside, he had to admit that the crew was amazing - Hongbin didn’t know much about dancing aside from what Wonshik had tried to explain to him before judging that his best friend was hopeless on the dance floor - but they were all moving in unison and every move seemed to fit the rhythm of the music perfectly. He even noted that Jongin really did deserve his “dance prodigy” title as he seemed to come alive as they ran through the routine more and more.
Hongbin was so enthralled that he didn’t notice the music being shut off and the signal for the crew to take a breather until Kyungsoo waved a hand in front of his face, gesturing for him to tap on the window to get his friend’s attention. He tapped his knuckles against the glass quickly, slightly shocked when it was Jongin who first noticed and directed Wonshik to look at the window before shyly looking away. He didn’t really have time to process Jongin’s shyness, however, as he waved to his best friend who was grinning from ear to ear, waving frantically before holding up a finger signaling him to wait a moment as he appeared to go look for his bag. As Wonshik turned to search, Hongbin noticed Jongin seemed to be resolutely avoiding gazing in the window’s direction. He wondered if Wonshik had picked up on Hongbin’s envy at their friendship and said something to the other dancer when he felt his phone vibrate in his pocket and pulled it out to find a text from Wonshik, who had returned and was waving his own phone at the window.
Ravehhhhhhh:
So happy you stopped by today!!! ♥♥♥ :) :) :) Practice will run late tonight so don’t worry about waiting around for me - see you back at the dorm!
Hongbin chuckled goodnaturedly at all the hearts and smileys before dashing out a quick, “ok, see you later and you guys look great!” before sharing Wonshik’s message about the late practice with Kyungsoo and heading out after a last wave goodbye through the window. From that distance, he didn’t notice Jongin exhale and stare at the image of his retreating back as the spectating pair walked away.
*
Two days passed and Hongbin, a few hours after waving goodbye to a sleepy Wonshik making his way out to a dance practice that started at an hour far too early for the weekend, made his way to Kyungsoo’s dorm for their promised English study session. After finding the room, he knocked on the door in much the same manner as he had the studio window until his friend finally swung the door open.
“You would be on time on a Saturday morning...I could’ve gone for a few more minutes of doing nothing,” Kyungsoo yawned as he ushered Hongbin into the small room.
“It’s eleven thirty...look alive, we’ve got studying to do,” Hongbin grinned, ignoring Kyungsoo’s sleepy glare as he plopped down on the nearest bed and began spreading out his notes.
“That’s the wrong bed but my roommate shouldn’t mind,” Kyungsoo said as he sat on his own bed, beginning to open his notes as he faced Hongbin. “He’s out right now and probably won’t be back for a while.”
Hongbin hummed in acknowledgment as they began reviewing materials that were likely to appear on Monday’s exam. After three or so hours of studying - with the occasional break for lunch and snacks sprinkled in here and there - the door suddenly opened and a tall, somewhat sweaty boy spun into the room with a “Hey Soo, I’m back from practice,” hands reaching to pull off his shirt so he could head to the shower before he locked eyes with the person sitting on his bed.
Hongbin stared as Jongin stood there, dark bangs slightly obscuring his face and dripping sweat, the loose tank top he was wearing similarly soaked to the point that it was barely serving its purpose as a shirt at all. He hadn’t expected for Kyungsoo’s roommate to be Jongin, and he definitely hadn’t expected him to walk through the door while lifting his shirt, revealing a sliver of defined abs peeking above Calvin Klein boxer briefs.
Kyungsoo looked up from his notes, smirking slightly as he noted his roommate and friend staring at each other, twin looks of shock on their faces. “Sorry to use your bed Jongin, I told you a friend was coming over to study right?” Kyungsoo said innocently, his expression not at all matching his tone of voice.
“Yeah I just uh-I didn’t realize-” Jongin stumbled over his words, hands still fisted around the hem of his tank top.
Kyungsoo, clearly enjoying his roommate’s embarrassment, jumped in once more. “I guess you haven’t formally met Hongbin yet have you? He’s Wonshik’s roommate and long time friend - I’m sure he’s mentioned him.” Jongin nodded in response, clearly wishing he were anywhere else while Hongbin was still sitting on the bed stunned - though his gaze had moved from Jongin’s face to the floor. “You know since we’re roommates and Hongbin and Wonshik are roommates, and I’m already friends with Hongbin and you’re already friends with Wonshik, we should really all hang out sometime. Oh! Let’s start eating lunch together. You guys don’t have practice then right?”
Hongbin’s head shot up at Kyungsoo’s words, giving his friend a look that was somewhere between menacing and desperate and hoping he could mentally send him the message to stop. Jongin squeaked out a tiny “well no we don’t-” when Kyungsoo jumped in with a “Great, it’s settled - let’s meet at the dining hall around one so you guys have time to shower and change after your morning practice. Speaking of, you could use a shower now actually,” he added the last part nonchalantly and drew great pleasure in watching Jongin turn red as he practically ran into the bathroom, quickly remembering his manners and mumbling a “nice to meet you” in Hongbin’s general direction before he disappeared completely.
Jongin now safely behind the locked bathroom door, Hongbin found his voice again and hissed at Kyungsoo “What are you doing??” While he didn’t necessarily think of Jongin as an enemy, he still wasn’t the fondest of the dancer that took up so much of his best friend’s time. Not to mention the way his mouth had gone dry when Jongin was unknowingly starting to strip in front of him, he thought to himself before shaking the notion away.
“I’m just merging our friend circles - we all mostly knew each other anyway, it makes sense.” Kyungsoo kept a carefully blank face as Hongbin groaned into his hands. The two remained silent for a moment before Kyungsoo had a moment of realization. “You know, in his haste I don’t think Jongin took any clothes into the bathroom with him.” Hongbin’s mouth went dry again as images of a freshly showered Jongin sauntering out in nothing but a towel flashed through his mind and he hurriedly began collecting his things.
“I’m just gonna go ahead and finish studying at home, we got through a lot anyway - see you in class Monday,” he blurted out, nearly tripping as he tried to step into his shoes
Kyungsoo fought back a slight laugh as he replied, “see you Monday,” to a very frazzled Hongbin who was already halfway out the door.
*
Much to Hongbin’s initial dismay, the lunches with the roommate pairs actually became a normal thing. Kyungsoo and Hongbin would always arrive first, with Wonshik and Jongin joining them a few minutes later - both having come from their respective dorms after a post-practice shower. Although it was somewhat awkward at first, mainly due to Hongbin and Jongin freezing up whenever the flow of conversation dictated they speak to each other, the foursome soon settled into a happy rhythm. Wonshik and Kyungsoo got along well, discussing their favorite types of music and even began to talk about making a song together once Kyungsoo learned that Wonshik enjoyed rapping in addition to his songwriting and production studies. The two of them would inevitably end up drawing Hongbin and Jongin into the conversation until they didn’t even realize they were speaking to each other comfortably.
As evening dance practices continued, Hongbin and Kyungsoo visited more frequently, occasionally toting bottles of water and snacks for their friends to replenish their energy during breaks. Wonshik was often busy, having been dragged into ‘Operation Help-Kyungsoo-Snag-Hakyeon;’ while his best friend played matchmaker, Hongbin found himself chatting one-on-one with Jongin more since he was the only other member of the dance crew he really knew.
Hongbin was reluctantly beginning to find Jongin’s company enjoyable. The first time the two had been left to converse alone, the awkward silence had dragged on until Jongin had sheepishly gone to ask one of the other dancers a question while Hongbin messed around on his phone. Sheerly out of desire to avoid another similarly awkward situation, the next time Hongbin was left alone with the other boy he decided to spark conversation by asking him what made him start dancing. That one question had immediately brought Jongin out of his shell, eyes lighting up as he talked about the first time he saw idols on TV and how instead of obsessing over the songs he was entranced by the backup dancers, and how when he was dancing he felt weightless - like it was a true out-of-body experience. Initial jealousy fading, Hongbin was starting to see how Jongin, this Jongin when he’s talking about dance or plopping down after a tiring but satisfying practice, had become Wonshik’s friend so quickly. The dancer was actually quite likeable, and when he started asking Hongbin about his photography he managed to break through the last of his walls.
Friendship fully solidified, Hongbin was now experiencing firsthand that Jongin was a very touchy-feely person. He hadn’t noticed before, how the dance student would drape an arm around Wonshik’s shoulders when they walked together or rest his chin on Kyungsoo’s head or shoulder to get his roommate’s attention. Now that he was on the receiving end of the skinship, however, Hongbin was definitely aware of Jongin’s presence. Oddly enough, the realization didn’t help Hongbin notice that Jongin was extra touchy with him. It didn’t register that although Jongin did stick close to everyone, he didn’t naturally wrap his arm around anyone else’s waist and let his fingers dance along shirt hemlines when standing next to them, and he wouldn’t rest his head on anyone else’s lap when he was tired after what felt like an eternity of continuous practice, content to relax there with his eyes closed for the few precious minutes Hakyeon gave them to rest between running different stretches of choreography. Even when Jongin came over to their room to talk to Wonshik he would drape himself around Hongbin’s shoulders as a greeting.
Wonshik and Kyungsoo grew more and more amused as Jongin became increasingly more touchy with Hongbin, who had yet to connect the dots and notice his former friendship rival’s feelings. Jongin was getting restless though, and had begun to flood Kyungsoo’s phone with an onslaught of somewhat pathetic texts.
Dancing Boy:
Soo Soo :( I’ve been flirting with Hongbin for like 3 weeks why hasn’t he noticed :(
Tiny but Dangerous:
First of all don’t call me ‘Soo Soo’ ever again or you can kiss any dreams of ever being able to fuck your crush goodbye
Dancing Boy:
Actually I want him to fuck me
Tiny but Dangerous:
Wow that is way more information than I needed. Anyway Wonshik said he’s just really oblivious, always has been. Try harder.
Dancing Boy:
That isn’t actually advice :(
Tiny but Dangerous:
Sounds like a personal problem.
Truthfully, Jongin actually had a better chance than he thought. Although he was feeling dejected from the lack of obvious reciprocation from Hongbin, his friends had long since noticed how their photography-loving friend would blush after one of Jongin’s lingering touches, only letting the flush hit his face when the other boy wasn’t looking. Not to mention that, during his and Kyungsoo’s visits to dance practices, Hongbin had ceased to focus on Wonshik, instead keeping his eyes glued to Jongin as he hit every dance move with key precision. Hongbin even asked Jongin to be his model on a project using action photography, something highly uncharacteristic for him as Wonshik pointed out that he’d always preferred photographing landscapes or cityscapes.
Unfortunately for Jongin, the upcoming showcase and accompanying increase in dance practices had left him few chances to spend any time with Hongbin. Their morning practices had been extended to include lunch, and Hakyeon had - somewhat reluctantly - told Kyungsoo and Hongbin that in order to keep the final touches on their choreography for the showcase a secret they couldn’t stop by for the time being.
Hongbin hadn’t expected to miss Jongin’s presence, but with the dancer’s absence he had found that he felt a bit like something was...missing. When Wonshik would come stumbling back into their room, half dead after a grueling practice, he would occasionally ask how things were going in a thinly veiled attempt at checking in on the other dancer. It wasn’t the same as having Jongin come over and flop onto his bed whining about how Hakyeon was working them to the bone, but he would take any little updates he could get.
After a couple weeks of very little contact with Jongin, Hongbin was surprised when mere days before the showcase a text from the other boy popped up on his phone.
Dancing Boy:
Hey, you busy?
Artwork:
Not at all, especially not compared to you. What’s up?
Dancing Boy:
Wanted to ask you something, I’m outside your building - can you come down?
Hongbin blinked rapidly in surprise as he quickly texted Jongin “sure” and threw on a light jacket and some shoes before rushing out the door.
“Hey,” Jongin greeted quietly, his posture betraying a level of nervousness that Hongbin hadn’t seen from him since they’d moved past their initial awkwardness. “Sorry to just show up like this…”
“It’s fine! It’s nice to actually see you face-to-face, you’ve been so busy lately. If I didn’t live with Wonshik I probably wouldn’t see him either, they’ve really been working you guys hard. I’ve missed hanging out though.”
Jongin looked up suddenly, the slight flush that rose to his cheeks not quite visible in the dim evening, “You missed me?”
Hongbin brought a hand up, sheepishly scratching at the back of his neck. “Well...yeah, I didn’t realize how much I’ve gotten used to our conversations and being around you at the dance studio or in one of our dorms...it just kinda hit me since you’ve been so busy lat-” His words were cut off by a gentle pressure against his lips and he blinked rapidly, dimly registering that he was being kissed by Jongin.
Before Hongbin could finish processing what was happening, the pressure was gone as Jongin stepped back, flushed face now completely apparent. “You don’t have to answer me now - in fact I’d rather you wait until after the showcase - but I really like you and would like it if you’d be my boyfriend-” Hongbin opened his mouth to speak before Jongin held up a hand in gesture signaling him to stop. “Like I said, I don’t want your answer yet, just...think about it.” He leaned in and gave Hongbin a fleeting peck on the lips before waving goodbye as he hurriedly made his way to his own dorm building, leaving a stunned Hongbin standing outside of his dorm for a few solid minutes until he was able to make his way back upstairs.
*
The next few days passed in a blur, Hongbin having gone over the kiss in his mind a million times, sorting out his feelings as the showcase - and the day he needed to have an answer for Jongin - approached. He’d briefly discussed what happened with an exhausted Wonshik the night of the fateful confession, only to get a reply of “finally” as his friend flopped onto his bed and promptly fell asleep. Kyungsoo had given him the longer, but only slightly more helpful, answer of “I swear to god you can’t actually be unsure right now,” and had proceeded to text Hongbin pictures of Jongin he’d obviously taken without permission, including some of him fresh out of the shower in nothing but basketball shorts, as though Hongbin needed his judgment clouded by wet, half-naked Jongin photos.
Finally the day of the showcase arrived, and while Hongbin was nervous about the conversation he would have to have with Jongin soon, he was mostly excited to see the final product of the crew’s hard work over the past several weeks. He met up with Kyungsoo in front of the auditorium, the two making it there early to make sure they snagged the best seats. They had a handful of performances to sit through before it was time for the dance crew to go on, some being quite good - the acapella group composed of third year vocal majors was heavenly - and some others...well, baton twirling isn’t for everyone, as the entire audience learned, collectively wincing when one first year caught her baton with her face.
Finally it was time for the crew’s performance. The lights dimmed low, making it impossible for the audience to see the stage as the music slowly began to raise in volume, bass causing the seats to vibrate slightly. Suddenly a spotlight appeared at center stage, illuminating Hakyeon, who stood in the center of the stage blindfolded.
“So this is what he wanted to keep secret,” Kyungsoo practically breathed out the words as Hongbin nodded silently, eyes glued to the stage as two figures had moved onto the stage to turn Hakyeon’s solo into a trio and he quickly recognized one as Jongin. He knew from conversations they’d had that Jongin’s initial dance training had all been more closely related to ballet, but Hongbin had never seen the other boy do a routine outside of the crew’s general hip-hop style. Hakyeon, Jongin, and the third dancer - Hongbin thought it was one of the third years - captivated the audience with a haunting modern dance performance, ending with Hakyeon in a backbend ripping off his blindfold as the music abruptly changed and the three ran off stage as Wonshik and another of the members - a fellow first-year, Sehun - moved into an exciting b-boy routine.
As Wonshik and Sehun ended their performance with synchronized backspins, the music changed to a mashup of some songs that had been on the radio a lot recently - Voodoo and Black Pearl - and the rest of the crew joined them on the stage into the main routine that Kyungsoo and Hongbin had caught glimpses of in earlier practices. Some of the original choreo from the songs was mixed in with various moves highlighting the different backgrounds of the dance crew members. Everyone had a chance to have a solo moment in the spotlight - starting with Hakyeon, as the eldest and leader, and continuing down all the way to the first years. Wonshik ended his moment with a backflip before he returned to his spot and playfully nudged Jongin into the center. Hongbin’s breath hitched as he watched Jongin start with a pirouette and then transition from classical dance to a fluid body wave that had at least half the audience squealing. The way Jongin moved felt unreal, the grace and seamlessness in every movement had Hongbin blushing, thinking of what it would be like if Jongin moved like that against him.
By the time Hongbin shook himself out of his fantasy, the crew was taking a bow and heading off stage and Kyungsoo was grabbing his hand and gesturing to follow him to the side of the auditorium. “After the student body president is done with his closing speech we can go congratulate everyone backstage, but we’ve gotta beat the crowd,” the shorter boy explained as he dragged a still somewhat dazed Hongbin to a prime spot to make it backstage.
Thanks to Kyungsoo’s planning, the two managed to zip backstage before nearly anyone else, although they were still faced with a crowd of performers and showcase student staff to navigate through. It took Hongbin spotting Wonshik’s arm flailing about above the crowd as a frantic signal for them to find the small dressing room backstage that the dance crew had claimed, excess members waiting in the wings or simply opting to strip in the hall as Hakyeon did, much to the delight of Kyungsoo, whose staring was less than subtle and, from Hongbin’s perspective, somewhat frightening.
A tap on his shoulder drew Hongbin’s attention away from the odd spectacle occurring in front of him and towards a shy Jongin who had just emerged from the dressing room, now in a black tank with armholes so wide they were basically pointless and jeans that seemed to be painted on. Hongbin didn’t realize he was spacing out until his eyes had made their way to Jongin’s lips and he realized they were moving in a manner that implied speech patterns were being emitted.
“...really glad you came to the show tonight,” Jongin said, voice barely rising above a whisper as he leaned forward to speak almost directly into Hongbin’s ear.
“Of course, I wouldn’t have missed it for anything,” Hongbin said, flushing a little at Jongin’s continued proximity. “About the other day…”
“YOOOO the after party’s about to start, you guys are coming right?,” Wonshik interrupted, slinging an arm over each of their shoulders.
“Of course, of course, I’ll head over to our fearsome leader’s place in a minute - wait for me outside,” Jongin laughed while gently shooing Wonshik away. “Looks like I’ve gotta head out soon...see you at the party?” he threw the question over his shoulder as he hurried to meet up with Wonshik and some of the other dancers, pausing briefly only to see a nod of confirmation from Hongbin before sprinting off.
Hongbin met Kyungsoo’s eyes as the crowd thinned out, most of the crew having headed out already. For a moment he considered not going to the party, nerves kicking in and eyes pleading, but he could tell from his friend’s deadpan, wide-eyed stare that he had no say in the matter. As Kyungsoo walked off in the direction of the exit, Hongbin sighed and begrudgingly ran a bit to catch up and fall into step next to his friend.
*
Hakyeon’s apartment was packed with dance crew members, friends of the crew, and people who had found out there was going to be free alcohol. Holding onto Kyungsoo’s wrist, Hongbin guided the two of them in the direction he assumed the kitchen was, judging by the direction of crowd flow and the increased amount of people toting red solo cups the further they went along.
“I need a drink before I can do this,” Hongbin said with a sigh, finding what appeared to be a clean cup and ladling some of the punch that he assumed - and hoped at this point - was at least half vodka. He gulped it down as quickly as he could, going to fix himself another cup as he noticed his friend staring at him, eyes clearly full of judgment.
Refilled red cup in hand, Hongbin turned away from the punch bowl. “I’ll stop after this one I just...I’m not good at parties. Or confessions. Stop judging me!”
“Good to know you’ve finally made up your mind on what to say to Jongin but I’m not about to let you get so drunk you pass out without making your move,” Kyungsoo began, shushing Hongbin as he was about to protest. “NOW then...Jongin is hanging out near the speakers with some of the other dancers. I think Wonshik is over there too if you need another face to look for. If you’ll excuse me, Hakyeon is on his couch and I have moves of my own to make - good luck!”
Left behind with a pat on the back and a vague sense of confusion at how Kyungsoo managed to scope the crowded apartment so quickly, Hongbin took another sip of his punch before heading in the direction of the speakers where he distantly spotted Jongin chatting with Wonshik and Sehun. As he nudged his way through the drunken crowd he considered turning back, sparing himself the embarrassment. What if Jongin had changed his mind between the night of the kiss and now? Just as he considered sneaking away behind the cover of a group of girls heading past, Wonshik spotted him and called out, waving him over. Hongbin took a deep breath as he waved back, heading over and trying to calm his nerves with the fact that Jongin had perked up when Wonshik had called out his name - as though he truly had been waiting for him to arrive at the party.
“Hongbiiiiiiiin, my bestest friend you made iiiiiiit,” Wonshik slung an arm around Hongbin’s shoulder, pulling him into a hug before partially releasing him as they stood side-by-side. Sehun and Jongin snickered in the background as Hongbin just looked at his friend with mild disbelief.
“How in the world did you get so drunk so fast...you only got here twenty minutes before me!”
“Someone had to taste test the punch! I think it’s suuuuper tasty!!! Ravehhhhhhhhhhh!!!” Wonshik threw his arm up in the air in some sort of victory punch and almost fell to the ground.
“Okay somebody needs to sit down and drink some water,” Hongbin said, preparing to haul his obviously wasted friend outside for some fresh air until he felt someone else lift up some of the dead weight.
“I’ll do it - I was technically supposed to make sure he didn’t get too drunk perfecting the punch but watching the effects of him drinking full cups every time we changed something instead of just taking small swigs was too hilarious to pass up,” Sehun said as he helped Wonshik lean up against his side with an arm around his shoulder. “You can keep Jongin company,” he wiggled his eyebrows suggestively as Jongin punched him in the arm, his face flushed as he pouted angrily. Sehun just laughed as he walked away, babbling Wonshik in tow.
Left alone, Hongbin was suddenly hyper-aware of Jongin’s presence. He finished the last of his drink and placed his cup in a stack of others near the main speaker - he didn’t envy whoever Hakyeon was going to make clean this place later. He opened his mouth to speak but Jongin beat him to it.
“I know I kind of...sprung my feelings on you the other day and I’m sorry,” Hongbin tried to interject but Jongin continued, “I still do really like you but I also don’t wanna mess up our friendship so even if you say no I still…..want to be your friend,” Jongin trailed off as he shyly held one arm in front of him, looking down as he worried his bottom lip between his teeth.
Hongbin looked at the shy boy before him who was refusing to make eye contact and smiled, his nerves now nonexistent. “But what if I don’t want to be your friend?” Hongbin observed as Jongin’s head shot up, fear flashing across his face. “Let me finish - what if I’d rather be your boyfriend?” The fear in Jongin’s face was quickly replaced by surprise, before he fully processed the question and his gaze slowly became more intense.
“Well, in that case...I think we should get out of here,” Jongin murmured as he rested his hands on Hongbin’s hips and pulled him closer. They stared at each other for a moment, faces mere inches apart, before Hongbin leaned in and pressed their lips together. He could feel the last whispers of tension and nerves melting away from Jongin as the dancer deepened the kiss, backing away with an attractive twinkle in his eye. “Yep, definitely think we should get out of here. My dorm’s closer and the better option I think.”
Still blushing slightly from the kiss and the knowledge that Jongin was now his boyfriend Hongbin blinked before asking, “What about Kyungsoo? I don’t think he’d forgive either of us if he walked in on...anything.”
Jongin merely laughed and gently turned his new boyfriend so that he had a view of the couch. “I don’t think he’s coming home tonight,” he said as they both looked over and found that Kyungsoo had indeed made his moves which involved 1) plopping himself onto Hakyeon’s lap and 2) making out with him to the point that it seemed that their faces were glued together.
“That...is not something I really needed to see,” Hongbin said with little actual bite in his voice - he was happy that his friend had succeeded as well, although more publicly than expected.
“Same. So in the interest of not being around as they…progress, why don’t we….” Jongin gestured towards the door, other hand resting on Hongbin’s waist. The other boy nodded in agreement as they walked out of the party and into the night, world reduced to just the two of them.
*
Although the two had managed to hold themselves back during the walk to Jongin’s dorm room, the moment they reached his door he seemed far more interested in exploring Hongbin’s mouth than fishing out his keys.
“Inside….please,” Hongbin whined as Jongin began trailing his lips lower, fixated on sucking a mark in the hollow where his neck meets his collarbone. Jongin answered with a sharp bite to the already slightly pink spot before finally retrieving his keys and opening the door, all but pushing Hongbin inside.
Hongbin fell back onto the bed, feeling the chill from a lack of body heat for just a few moments before Jongin was over him, straddling his hips and leaning down for another kiss. There was a sense of urgency in the way Jongin kissed, as though Hongbin would disappear at any moment. Hongbin brought his arms up to wrap around the dancer’s back reassuringly, fingers skimming across the surface until they were lingering around his hips, waiting for invitation to go further.
Jongin rocked back, looking at Hongbin with a slight twinkle in his eye. “So you do top,” he breathed out earning a light slap on the ass from the boy beneath him.
“Is that a problem?” Hongbin asked playfully, hands already dipping further down the other boy’s body.
Jongin brought a hand between the two of them, fingers trailing down Hongbin’s abs. “Quite the opposite, that means we can put this,” he cupped Hongbin through his jeans, drawing a hiss from the pinned boy, “to good use.”
The two exchanged a look, Hongbin answering the devilish challenge in Jongin’s eye, and decided to show him just how much he liked that idea.
*
Spring rays of sunshine fell onto the quad, many of the students having opted to enjoy lunch outdoors to take advantage of the newly warm weather. Jongin was sprawled out on the grass, head resting in Hongbin’s lap, humming as Hongbin stroked his hair absentmindedly. Four months had passed since the showcase and the photography student didn’t think he’d ever been happier. Winter Break had followed soon after the couple formed, and Jongin had texted Hongbin every day proclaiming how much he missed him with everything from sad emoticons, pouty-faced selcas, and messages whining about how his fingers just aren’t enough anymore. Hongbin may or may not have saved a few of those to get through the quieter evenings that weren’t spent playing video games with Wonshik.
Now, with spring in the air, Hongbin looked around him at his friends - Hakyeon and Kyungsoo were feeding each other lunch as Wonshik glanced over while mumbling “I need more single friends, you guys are gross.” Across the quad he could see Jaehwan talking to the model from their fall class - Taekwoon - and he waved until his attention was drawn by a tug on the bottom of his shirt.
“You stopped stroking my hair when you started waving,” Jongin murmured sleepily, lips slightly pouted in an all-too-inviting manner that had Hongbin leaning down to give him a quick peck on the mouth.
“Sorry love,” Hongbin said, fingers curling through Jongin’s hair and picking up where he left off. Like this, surrounded by people he loves and with a boyfriend he couldn’t have dreamed up, Hongbin was pretty sure the rest of his college years were going to be amazing.
Note: I’m so sappy it’s disgusting omg. Also, the remix I referenced actually exists here - https://soundcloud.com/djdoushitekimi (not mine)
Thanks for reading!!!