Work Text:
The weather today is really hot, and having PE class in the afternoon under the sun is not helping it either. The students' complaints, his annoyance with the weather and students not listening to him make the situation even worse.
Jiwoong sighs in relief when the bell rings, "Class dismissed!" He yells and he had never felt happier to be able to run back to the staff's room that is blasting with air conditioner. Perks of being a teacher.
When Jiwoong slid the wooden door of the staff's room open though, he was hit by a gush of cold wind. He shudders and feels chills go down his spine at the stark contrast of the temperature between the outdoors and indoors.
Weird.
Since when does the staff's room have its temperature this low? It feels like 16°C when it is 23°C displayed on the small screen of the air conditioner. He rubs both his hands on either side of his arms to create heat friction and goes to his seat. Beside him is Keita, a language teacher; and opposite him is Zhang Hao, a music teacher.
"Is it just me or is the room really cold?" Jiwoong voices out once he takes his seat, putting on a jacket he has kept in the drawer.
At that, Keita replied with just a nudge of his head towards the direction of Zhang Hao, and that is all it took for him to understand what had happened so he kept quiet, deciding not to say anything more. Anytime Zhang Hao behaves like this, long face and gloomy vibe; Jiwoong and Keita know it's always related to Sung Hanbin, his boyfriend. Or more often known as the nation's center in the idol industry.
Suddenly, his phone vibrates in his pocket. He took it out and saw that he received a message on the kakao app. "Hanbin is announcing a comeback, you already know what that means." Keita texted him.
"No wonder…" Jiwoong replies and switches off his phone. It's always been like this for the past few years since they first met as teachers at BGP high school.
When they had gotten close a few years back, Zhang Hao finally opened up about his relationship by telling them that he has a boyfriend. But neither Jiwoong nor Keita believed it since Zhang Hao always looked like he had way better things to do than dating. That is until they visited Zhang Hao’s house and Sung Hanbin, the said boyfriend came out of the bedroom.
What shocked them more than the fact that Zhang Hao indeed does have a boyfriend, was that he was able to get Sung Hanbin, out of all people, to be his boyfriend. Because that's the nation's center we are talking about! Jiwoong can't imagine how many girls' and boys' hearts will be broken when they find out their favourite idol is already off the market.
But that will be for another time in the future.
So, whenever Hanbin has a comeback, it would only mean one thing to Zhang Hao. Less time spent with his boyfriend.
Zhang Hao knew what he was getting into when he agreed to date Hanbin, who was still a trainee, back in their high school days. He knew this was Hanbin's dream, and he couldn't be happier when the younger one finally debuted. He was there from the bottom, accompanying Hanbin through his idol journey, so he knew better than anyone just how much Hanbin loves this. If he shed tears when Hanbin finally debuted, no one needs to know.
But he couldn't help it. Despite going through it many times, Zhang Hao couldn't help but feel sad every time at the thought of not being able to be with Hanbin as frequently as he would want to, just like every other normal couple out there.
Comeback promotions, concerts, award shows… that leaves barely any time for Zhang Hao to have Hanbin all by himself. They would have dinner together, then at some point, Hanbin is gone due to some emergency meeting with the company.
Even if he didn't want to admit it, Zhang Hao had long gotten used to it. But it doesn't mean it never hurts.
"You two are not slick at all." Zhang Hao says, looking over his desk at his two friends sitting opposite him. "Especially you, Jiwoong. You're making it way too obvious." He then laughs.
Caught red-handed, Jiwoong apologises even if he did nothing wrong in the first place which causes Zhang Hao to erupt into an even bigger fit of laughter.
"Well, if you're sorry, treat me to lunch now."
"Okay." Jiwoong agrees. As long as Zhang Hao is not buried deep in his thoughts while being all sad and depressed, he is okay with anything. "Keita, let's go!"
And just like that, the temperature of the room rises and does not feel like 16°C anymore.
🎤
After school has ended, Zhang Hao goes back home to his shared apartment with Hanbin. The walk back to his home is slow. He enjoys the sunset, orange hues reflecting on him and the chill breeze that is starting to appear as the night slowly sets in. No one is waiting for him at home anyways.
Sometimes, he would rush home because Hanbin would already be at home, preparing dinner for the both of them. But since Hanbin is gonna make a comeback soon, Zhang Hao doubts his boyfriend would be at home. He probably is at the company, busy working on the comeback.
As expected, he was immediately greeted by a barking sound when he opened the door, like the majority of the time if Hanbin is not at his place. When he turns on the light to take off his shoes, the puppy is already at his feet, wagging its tail excitedly.
"Daegal, my baby! I missed you!" Zhang Hao crouches down to pet the puppy. Then, he takes the puppy in his hold, bringing it up to his face. "Did you miss me too?" He asked, and Daegal just licked his cheeks in excitement, causing Zhang Hao to giggle.
If Hanbin is not home, at least he has Daegal.
"Come on now, let's get you your dinner." Zhang Hao stands up and heads towards the kitchen. But when he saw a silhouette in the kitchen, Zhang Hao almost dropped the puppy that was in his hand. "Oh my god!" He exclaims.
The silhouette turns around and to Zhang Hao's surprise, it is Hanbin, whom he thought would be in the company right now instead of their apartment. "Hanbin? Why are you here?" Zhang Hao knew he should feel happy at the sight of his boyfriend but he couldn't help but ask, curiosity overtaking him.
"This is our home, of course, I'm gonna be here." Hanbin says, chuckling lightly as he slowly approaches Zhang Hao and takes Daegal into his hold.
"I mean aren't you supposed to be working on your comeback now at the company?"
"Does not mean I'm not allowed to come home." Hanbin cups Zhang Hao's cheek with one of his free hands, caressing it softly. "I missed you, baby." He then pressed a soft kiss on his boyfriend’s forehead.
Zhang Hao knew there was no point asking pointless questions anymore so he just gave in to the euphoric feeling he had about Hanbin being with him at this moment. He immediately buries himself into Hanbin's embrace. "I missed you too, so much more than you could imagine."
"I know, and I'm sorry I couldn't spend more time with you." Hanbin's free hand that was cupping Zhang Hao's cheek is now caressing his hair soft and slowly.
"It's your work, I understand."
"Still, you're my boyfriend after all. Who's supposed to take care of you and spoil you if it's not me?"
"I can take care of myself." Zhang Hao huffs. "Also, you should focus on your comeback to not disappoint your fans." He teases.
"Since when have I disappointed my fans?" Hanbin plays along, knowing his boyfriend is just teasing him.
"Me, I'm that fan."
"Well, that is not good then." Hanbin frowned, feigning concern and leaned away a bit so he could look Zhang Hao in the eyes.
Zhang Hao just hums in agreement, a mischievous grin on his face. He’s having way too much fun in this teasing.
"I shall bring my fan out for a dinner date to appease his disappointment then." Hanbin clears his throat and announces with a very formal tone, causing Zhang Hao to end up bursting into laughter.
"I'm taking that as a yes?"
"Of course! In all seriousness though, we haven't been on a date in a while so we better be eating well." Zhang Hao says, and Hanbin could sense the sadness from his boyfriend at the mention of ‘date’. It really has been a long time.
“Anything you want, baby.” Hanbin smiles fondly.
"Okay! Let me change, then we can go, and please feed Daegal." Zhang Hao says rather excitedly. There are skips in his step as he goes to the master bedroom.
Hanbin just watches his boyfriend disappear into the room, then he puts the puppy down on the ground to find the food.
The truth is, Hanbin was stressed with the comeback. The company had promised to give him an actual break after his world tour but the company suddenly released news of his comeback without even discussing it with him.
On the good side though, he has already written and recorded many songs, so he could just pick a few that are suitable for the concept and maybe touch up on some recordings. Still, it does not brush off the fact that he was being overworked and barely had any time for his boyfriend.
He had missed Zhang Hao to death especially when he was touring overseas. Although they would video call, it wasn't sufficient for Hanbin. He wanted to physically touch and hold Zhang Hao, his safe place, his comfort zone.
That is why despite his manager’s effort in trying to refrain him from leaving the company, Hanbin is dead set on coming back home to Zhang Hao. His comeback preparation could wait, but his mental health couldn't.
"Love, I'm done!" Zhang Hao skips out of the bedroom excitedly. He is dressed in a normal navy dark blue t-shirt, paired with black jeans and a beige cap. In his hand, holds a black jacket with a white collar which belongs to Hanbin's.
“Let’s go then.” Hanbin offers his hand and Zhang Hao gladly takes it, intertwining their fingers.
The walk from their apartment to the elevator, and then to the lobby was short. They talked about their day, mostly Zhang Hao doing the talking and Hanbin just listened attentively while looking at Zhang Hao like he was the world.
He is.
Zhang Hao was ranting about his students, specifically a group of four students that consist of Matthew, Gyuvin, Ricky, and Yujin. These four are the biggest headache Zhang Hao has ever handled as a homeroom teacher.
Even worse, they are fans of Hanbin. So if they ever find out their idol and their teacher are dating, Zhang Hao thinks he will resign in hopes of not meeting these kids anymore.
But despite that, he adores these four rascals.
All of the sudden, Hanbin goes in front of him, stopping him from walking.
"Love? What-" Zhang Hao tried to say but he was cut off when Hanbin lessened their distance, nose almost touching. He did not back off, but he was confused. Is Hanbin going to kiss him? Here? So randomly?
"Smile for the camera." Hanbin whispers and before Zhang Hao could comprehend anything, he felt lips on his. As instinct takes over, Zhang Hao kisses back with the same intensity.
The kiss felt like forever, even though it just lasted a few seconds. When the both of them pull away, wide smiles are on their faces.
"What was that?" Zhang Hao chuckles, eyes overflowing with adoration and love.
"Did you smile for the camera?"
"What camera?" Zhang Hao asked confusedly. He looks around the lobby, but no one is there. Then it clicked. Paparazzi! "Omg, Hanbin!" He exclaims in shock, eyes darting around, scanning the outside of their apartment.
It was fruitless of course.
Hanbin just grins, grabs Zhang Hao's hand and continues as if nothing has happened. "I'm sure we'll look great tomorrow on the news."
"You are such a menace."
"That's what the company deserves for robbing my time with my boyfriend."
"Are you sure this is really okay though? I mean, you're putting your career at risk right now." Zhang Hao asked once everything had sunk in.
Maybe that was not a good move. He should have been more aware of his surroundings whenever he was with Hanbin. The last thing he would want to do is ruin Hanbin's career and dreams with his own hands.
"It's about time I let the world know I'm taken, baby. Now, don't worry about this and enjoy our date okay?" Hanbin reassures.
"If you say so." Zhang Hao sighs.
As Hanbin said, he should enjoy the date he had been wishing for. It has really been a long time since the last date, and he will make sure to make the most out of it.
🎤
As expected, the news broke out the next day and it was chaotic. The front page of the newspaper and online articles is highlighted in bold big font.
"BREAKING NEWS! IDOL SUNG HANBIN IS CAUGHT KISSING WITH A MAN PASSIONATELY."
“IS IDOL SUNG HANBIN DATING?”
“IDOL SUNG HANBIN FIRST DATING SCANDAL!”
And of course, there’s more. Zhang Hao couldn't count them all with both his hands. When he woke up, his phone was blowing up with notifications from Jiwoong and Keita asking what the hell was going on, and why his mosaic face was plastered all over the news article.
Hanbin on the other hand, was still deep asleep. The audacity he has after causing such a commotion. But Zhang Hao was never angry at Hanbin in the beginning because whatever decision his boyfriend wants to make, Zhang Hao will always wholeheartedly support it.
If Hanbin wants to let the world know, then so be it. He will always stand by Hanbin. If all odds are against Hanbin, you bet Zhang Hao is not one of them.
Placing a soft kiss on the crown of Hanbin's head, Zhang Hao goes to work.
On the way to work, Zhang Hao couldn’t help but felt curious about what the netizens thought of their beloved nation’s center in a relationship, so he scrolled to the bottom of a few articles to read the comments. Surprisingly, most comments are positive, and supportive of Hanbin’s relationship. Of course, there are a few negative comments. But the positive ones are dominating it.
Relieved, Zhang Hao put his phone away and enjoyed the bus ride, totally unaware of what was about to come.
When he arrives at the staff’s room, Jiwoong and Keita are already looking at him, curious eyes fixed on him.
“What?” Zhang Hao asked, holding in a laugh that was threatening to come out due to his friends’ actions.
“You know what we want to ask!” Keita whispers-yelled.
"There's nothing to explain, it's as you see. Besides, I'm just kissing my boyfriend, what's there to ask?" Zhang Hao laughs, rummaging through his desk.
"I mean- Well, that's true but-"
"I need to go to class now, talk later." Zhang Hao cuts Jiwoong off and leaves the staff's room with an attendance book in hand.
When he entered the classroom, students' chattering could be heard. It was particularly loud at the back of the room where Zhang Hao's favourite four rascals are seated. They were hunched around Matthew’s table, looking at what seemed like a phone.
"Hanbin is dating a guy?!" Gyuvin exclaims rather loudly and Zhang Hao falters in his steps.
Fuck.
"What's your reaction? Will you not support him anymore if this is true?" Yujin accused, glaring at his friend.
"What?! Of course not! I'm more than happy for him. I'm just shocked, okay?" Gyuvin argues back.
"Does anyone find this silhouette familiar though?" Ricky asked after keeping quiet for a while. "Don't you think it looks like-"
That's it. "Alright, roll call!" Zhang Hao slams the attendance book on the teacher's table, cutting off what Ricky was gonna say. Although the chattering died down slowly, Zhang Hao received many weird glances at him because it was the first time his students ever saw him get mad. Mad enough to slam something.
You can't blame him though, especially when his students are starting to get a hint of what's happening between their favourite idol and their homeroom teacher.
The first period is usually a short 20-minute self-study session while homeroom teachers take attendance and make some announcements if there are any. So when it's time for the next period, Zhang Hao takes one last wary glance at his four rascals before leaving the classroom.
When Zhang Hao finally left the classroom, Matthew was the first to speak. “Ricky, continue what you were saying just now!”
“Oh yeah, I almost forgot what I was going to say after Hao-ssaem cut me off.” Ricky laughs and then clears his throat, “As I was saying, don’t you think the silhouette of Hanbin’s boyfriend is familiar? He’s tall and slim, I feel like I’ve seen it somewhere.”
“Oh my god, it could have been anyone, you dumbass! You’re also tall and slim, so are you trying to that’s you in the picture?” Matthew whines, crying at the lack of brain cells his friend has.
“I wish…” Ricky groans. Maybe he was wrong. But the silhouette is screaming You know me! So, without any concrete evidence to say that the person in the picture is truly not someone he has seen, Ricky doesn’t think he will let this argument go. It has to be someone he has seen before, a lot of time at that, for him to recognize only a silhouette.
“Wait, didn’t Hanbin study here during his high school days?” Yujin suddenly asked, face lighting up with a solution.
“Yes, so what?”
“Does everyone still remember Hao-ssaem’s introduction at the start of the year? He said he studied here too!” Yujin paused, hoping his friend would get it by now, but none of them did, just staring blankly at him.
“And?” Gyuvin asked.
“That means there’s a possibility Hao-ssaem and Hanbin know each other! So I say we go ask Hao-ssaem if he knows who Hanbin’s boyfriend is.” Yujin grins, feeling proud of his idea.
“And get detention from him? Yeah no.” Matthew scoffs.
“He’s not that strict, come on.”
“That’s because you’re his favourite student, so he’s lenient towards you.” Gyuvin says.
“I’m not, what the hell?”
“You are, Yujin.” Ricky agrees, shaking his head as he slowly deflates into his seat.
“You guys are just cowards!” Yujin exclaims, pointing fingers at his friends but they just shrug their shoulders. “Fine, I’ll go ask by myself later.”
“Good luck, Yujinie.” The three of them chime, laughing and Yujin just huffs in annoyance, turning around to get ready for the next class.
🎤
It was during lunchtime when Zhang Hao received a call from Hanbin. It’s about time he woke up and dealt with the mess he created last night. He went out of the staff’s room and answered the call.
“Hey, love.” Zhang Hao greets over the phone.
“Hi.” Hanbin replies and Zhang Hao can already see the sheepish smile his boyfriend has on his face. That goddamn smile that made him fall in love back then.
“What are you doing now?” Zhang Hao asked when he heard some ruffling and Hanbin’s voice seemed distant. He must be on speaker then.
“Dressing up for a press conference to address what happened last night.”
“So have you and the company discussed what you’re going to say? You know, to admit it or deny it?” Zhang Hao asked. If he’s biting his fingers in the nervousness of Hanbin’s answer, no one needs to know.
“Of course, we’ll admit it! Don’t worry your pretty head, baby. Just trust me. Don’t you trust your boyfriend?” Hanbin accuses playfully.
“Of course I trust you. So, whatever you want to say at the conference, say it!” Zhang Hao giggles. It was cut short when he heard some fussing from behind. He didn't need to turn around to know it was his four rascals due to the reflection on the window.
They are pushing each other around, mainly Yujin being the target while he tries to resist it, pushing Gyuvin to the front instead.
Zhang Hao chuckles at the sight.
"What are you laughing at?" Hanbin asked bringing him back to the conversation instead of focusing on his students.
"Those four rascals are at it again."
"Oh them? You always talk about them so fondly, I want to meet them now. And since they're my fans, that's even more of a reason to do so!"
"Oh please no, for the sake of me." Zhang Hao groans. He can already see how badly it's gonna end if they were to meet.
Through the window reflection, the fussing never seems to stop. They are still pushing around, and their presence is starting to become more obvious.
"Those rascals are not gonna stop until I interfere, so I will go now, okay? Good luck with your press conference, you'll do great as always."
"Okay, I'll text you after I'm done then see you at home. Or do you want me to pick you up today after work?"
"You really want to meet these rascals huh?" Zhang Hao chuckles, seeing through his boyfriend’s intention.
"That's not true! Am I not allowed to pick up my boyfriend after work? He must be so tired after all the teaching." Hanbin pouts over the line.
"Do what you want, I can never stop you anyways." Zhang Hao smiles. Deep down, he was actually happy.
"Okay, I'll see you later then. Love you, baby."
"Love you too." Zhang Hao said and ended the call.
This time, the fussing has stopped. But too bad, they were already caught.
"Spying on your teacher, was it fun?" Zhang Hao smirks, looking through the reflection. He saw all of them frozen in place, scared shitless after being caught. "Come out." He added, this time turning around with his arm crossed in front of his chest, looking straight at them.
———
When the bell rang indicating it was lunch time, Yujin burst out of the classroom and headed towards the staff's room, in hopes to find his Hao-ssaem. Gyuvin, Ricky, and Matthew just trail along, wanting to watch the scene unfold.
When they reached the third floor, they spotted Zhang Hao leaning against the handrail, facing outside while talking on the phone.
"Can anyone hear who Hao-ssaem is talking to?" Gyuvin asked after they found a hiding spot near the toilet entrance.
"How can we know? He's not on speaker!" Matthew smacked the back of his friend's head.
"Let's go closer then! Hide behind those lockers." Yujin suggests, pointing at the row of lockers located near where Zhang Hao is standing.
When they finally got closer, they paid full attention to the words coming out of their teacher's mouth. It was not very clear, but they caught the words: 'press conference', 'company', and 'admit'.
"Omg, what do you think he's talking about?" Gyuvin asked.
"Why do I feel like the one he's talking to is Hanbin? Maybe they're friends and Hanbin is asking for advice regarding the articles?" Ricky suggested, talking for the first time since lunch has started.
"That's a good theory." Matthew agrees. "Yujin, now is your time to shine! Go ask Hao-ssaem if it's really Hanbin!" He says, pushing Yujin out of their hiding spot.
Flustered, Yujin refused. "No!" He whisper-yelled, resisting his friends. They kept pushing and pulling until they heard something shocking come out of their teacher's mouth.
Love you too.
The fussing stopped, and all four of them looked at each other in shock. All of them were thinking the same thing. If Hanbin is really the one on the phone, and given Zhang Hao's words, does that mean the two adults are dating?!
"No way! It's definitely not Hanbin then!" Matthew immediately dismissed Ricky's theory.
"Why not? Now that I think about it, Hao-ssaem looks good with Hanbin." Ricky argues back.
Before more words could be thrown around between them, a familiar stern voice interrupts their moment. "Spying on your teacher, was it fun? Come out."
Fuck. We are caught!
———
"All of you, not just Yujin." Zhang Hao said when he saw the remaining three rascals wanting to push Yujin out of the hiding spot.
Seeing as there was no point in running away, all four of them came out of their hiding spot. They slowly approached Zhang Hao and stood in front of him with their heads hung low, too afraid to look up at their teacher.
"So, what are you all trying to do?" Zhang Hao questioned. "Also, lift your head. I'm not scolding you all, don't be scared."
The four of them do as they were told. Still, their eyes are darting around, not daring to look straight into their teacher's eyes.
"Sir, we have one question to ask. Is that okay?" Matthew speaks up.
"Go ahead."
After a bit more fussing, the three of them urged Yujin to be the one to ask the question. "W-was that Sung Hanbin you were talking to on the phone?"
Zhang Hao was not surprised at the question regarding Hanbin. But he didn't know what answer he should give them. He could just straight up say no, that would save him from all the future problems.
Besides, he had no idea how long they were hiding nor how much they heard given that they were fussing around quite a lot.
But he decided to give them the benefit of doubt, because why live life peacefully when you could live it more thrillingly?
"Yes, it's Hanbin." Zhang Hao said like it was the simplest thing in the world and he was not ready to hear the loud gasp coming out from his students. Was it that surprising?
"So, any more things you wanna ask? If not, you all should get back to class, lunch break is almost over."
"O-oh yes, alright! Have a good day, Hao-ssaem!" Gyuvin says, and immediately all four of them ran away, rather giddy like some girls squealing after seeing their crush.
Zhang Hao just shakes his head fondly as he watches his four rascals disappear after turning left to the staircase, then goes back to the staff's room to continue his work.
🎤
A few weeks have passed since then.
The press conference went better than expected. Most of the reporters were mainly asking appropriate questions regarding his relationship. Of course, some crossed the line but Hanbin was professional through and through.
After the press conference ended, Hanbin once again dominated the news world. But instead of the bold heading of 'DATING SCANDAL' , it is now 'CUTE HIGHSCHOOL LOVE STORY' or some sort of heading similar to it.
Everyone was gushing about Hanbin’s relationship with Zhang Hao. How they first met in high school, became friends, and then lovers. With anonymous old classmates giving out more detail about their relationship, their love story was the talk of the nation for weeks.
On the other hand, Hanbin is busy preparing for his comeback that is soon approaching. He had already finished all the recordings, and the only thing left was filming the mv. He had decided to go for a different concept this time, and he was sure it would be a surprise for his fans, and especially his boyfriend.
It was already late at night when Hanbin arrived home. When he opened the door, the lights were still on so he figured Zhang Hao must be still awake.
Seeing as his boyfriend is not in the living room, he heads straight to the kitchen after taking off his shoes. And there Zhang Hao is, sitting at the dining table, grading his student's homework.
"Hey, baby." Hanbin greets, placing a kiss on the crown of Zhang Hao's head.
"You're back, welcome home." Zhang Hao smiles and tilts his head up to look at Hanbin who is standing right behind him. "You've worked hard. Sit down, I'll prepare some snacks for you." He then softly pulled Hanbin's hand, guiding him to take a seat beside him.
"It's okay, I'm not hungry."
"I am." Zhang Hao giggles. "I've been grading homework for a while now, I need a break."
"Let me do it then." Hanbin immediately stands up, already searching for food in the cabinet. He also prepared a cup of warm milk for his boyfriend.
Watching Hanbin pace back and forth in the kitchen area to prepare late-night snacks, Zhang couldn't help but blurt out "How am I so lucky to have the best boyfriend?"
Hanbin paused for a while, and then he chuckled. "That's supposed to be my question for you. How am I so lucky that you chose me out of all the people that confessed to you back then? I was merely just a quiet student that always skipped school."
"It's because you're the most normal one, and that piqued my interest."
"Normal? How come I didn't know about this?" Hanbin narrows his eyes at his boyfriend teasingly. After placing the snacks and milk down on the table, he takes his seat beside Zhang Hao. "Is that a compliment or insult?"
"It's a compliment. Back then, I was the president of the student council. That alone has already put a lot of pressure on me, and my powerful family background is not helping either. Haven't you realised that the people that confessed to me are all rich kids with good academic and sports achievements?"
"Oh yeah, now that you say it…" Hanbin trails off. "Now, I'm even more curious why you chose me. They were obviously so much better than me."
"That is precisely why." Zhang Hao smiles, taking Hanbin's hand and playing with his fingers. "You are just a normal boy going after his dream, and nothing more. I find that so alluring. With all that pressure, you were my safe place back then. With you, I don't have to worry about anything. Name, title, position, they were nothing when I'm with you."
"Oh…" Hanbin smiles. That was why Zhang Hao always looked for him back in high school.
"I love you so much." Zhang Hao sings happily and takes a snack into his mouth. Then, he returns to grading his students' homework.
Hanbin giggles at the little dance he did and presses a kiss on the temple of Zhang Hao's head. "Do you want me to help you with your work?" Hanbin offers.
"It's fine, I don't have work tomorrow but you do, so you should rest first."
"Okay, don't work too late and come to bed soon then." Hanbin ruffled his boyfriend's hair and left.
After 30 minutes had passed, Hanbin was finally starting to fall asleep when he felt a dip in the bed. Zhang Hao is finally done with his work. Naturally, he opens his arms so Zhang Hao can cuddle into him as he embraces the latter, both hugging each other as they drift off to dreamland.
🎤
It was finally the day of Hanbin's comeback. Zhang Hao was told that there will be two music videos. Too bad, one of them will be released when he’s teaching so he couldn’t watch it until his teaching is over. As for the second music video, it will be released during the live showcase tonight so at least, Zhang Hao can watch one of them live.
And because Hanbin is firm in not giving him any spoilers—except that there will be two music videos, Zhang Hao could only rely on the official accounts on social media.
So when his phone vibrates indicating the first music video had dropped, Zhang Hao ignores it and focuses on his teaching. But of course, there were some students who dropped the instrument in their hands to surf their phones.
For example, his four rascals.
"The MV is out!" Gyuvin exclaims rather loudly and the whole class turns silent, looking at him.
"Kim Gyuvin." Zhang Hao calls out and smiles sinisterly.
Even Zhang Hao himself can't watch the music video live, what makes Gyuvin think he could? Zhang Hao would never allow it.
"Sir, you wanna watch it together?" Gyuvin asked excitedly, "After all, Hanbin is your boy- Ouch!" He suddenly yelped, glaring at the person sitting beside him. Yujin had cut him off by kicking him in the shin.
"Sir, please continue with the class. The flute is fun." Yujin smiles awkwardly.
Zhang Hao on the other hand was confused. What the hell is going on with these rascals? They have been acting weird since they were caught spying on him. It's like they know something no one else knows.
And what was Gyuvin gonna say just now? Boy what? Boyfriend?
Although suspicious, Zhang Hao decided to let it go. He takes one last look at those four rascals before returning to his class.
———
During the bus ride to the venue of the live showcase, Zhang Hao watched the music video. It was really cute and the music was really good too.
The title track is called 'POV' and it's a song about someone through the point of view of their lover. There is only one main character in the music video and it was Hanbin. The music video is made of clips of Hanbin taken by Zhang Hao. And it finally makes sense for Zhang Hao to why Hanbin was looking through his gallery for videos of himself.
For fans, it will feel like they are just watching Hanbin through the eyes of the idol's lover. But for Zhang Hao, it felt like a trip down memory lane because he remembers clearly the history behind each clip.
They were all good memories he cherished.
When he arrives at the venue, Hanbin's manager is already waiting for him outside. Then, he was given a VIP pass. Many fans were looking at him when he walked to the entrance of the venue.
"Why is everyone looking at me?" Zhang Hao asked Hanbin's manager, feeling embarrassed at the number of eyes on him.
"Probably because you are walking with me or maybe that VIP pass on your neck." The manager laughs, holding the door open for Zhang Hao.
"Thank you." Zhang Hao bows.
They kept chatting until they reached the artist's room where Hanbin was getting ready. "I have escorted him here safely." The manager announced once they walked into the artist's room, then went backstage to check up on the situation.
"Baby, you're here!" Hanbin eyes lit up at the sight of his boyfriend.
Zhang Hao just hums in acknowledgement then takes a seat on the couch. He just watches the makeup artist and hair stylist do their magic silently. After they are done, they leave the room, leaving the couple alone.
"Have you watched the music video?" Hanbin asked, taking a seat beside Zhang Hao.
"I did, it was cute."
"Really? Then I hope you'll like the second music video too."
"You already know I will like everything you put out." Zhang Hao laughs.
"That's true." Hanbin laughs too.
The two of them enjoy their alone time, until Hanbin's manager returns and lets him know that they'll be starting soon.
———
After school is over, all of them go to Ricky's house since it was closest to the venue of Hanbin's live showcase. The four of them had managed to get their tickets thanks to a trusted broker.
Many fans were already at the venue when they arrived.
"Oh my god, I can't believe I will get to see Hanbin in an hour." Yujin exclaims excitedly.
"Let's go line up first before the line gets even longer." Ricky suggested and all of them quickened their steps to the entrance.
Matthew was the first one to see it, tapping his friends' back frantically. "Guys, isn't that Hao-ssaem?"
"Where?"
"The entrance! With Hanbin's manager!" Matthew points out, and indeed, it is their teacher.
"Oh my god, it's really him!" Gyuvin gasps.
"That means we are right about Hanbin dating Hao-ssaem!" Ricky cheers.
"I still don't think they are dating, maybe best friends at best." Matthew disagrees.
"What kind of friends say I love you to each other?" Ricky groans. They had argued about this many times, and no matter how solid the evidence is pointing towards the two adults dating, Matthew is still firm about his theory.
"Let's make a bet, if they are dating, Matthew will buy milk tea for us. But if they're just friends, Ricky will buy it." Gyuvin suggested.
"Oh, I am so winning then." Ricky smirks.
"We'll see." Matthew scoffs.
———
Zhang Hao went to the VIP seats after giving Hanbin a good luck kiss. Lucky or unlucky, his four rascals were also at the live showcase, just one row below him. He should have expected it, given that they're hardcore fans.
"Hao-ssaem!" Yujin exclaims, turning his whole body around. The other three bowed in respect at the sight of their teacher.
"We're not in school now, just call me hyung." Zhang Hao says, feeling his ears warm up in embarrassment that he ran into his students outside.
Before they could say anything more, the light went off and a video started playing on the big led screen. It looks like the second music video that is supposed to be released during the showcase.
It started with a clip of Hanbin filming himself with an old film camera. He was in his high school uniform and was mumbling to himself. "Is it recording?" He keeps fumbling with the camera.
Then another voice was heard. "Hanbin, are you done? Come quick!" Now, the camera is filming two people playing with firecrackers, one of them being Hanbin and the other someone the fans had never seen before. Except for the four rascals.
Yujin turns around to Zhang Hao excitedly. "Hyung, that's you in the video!" He points towards the led screen, then turns back to the led screen, anticipating the next clip of the music video.
Zhang Hao on the other hand was shocked. He is not expecting this at all. As he continues watching the music video, it is all clips of himself through Hanbin's eyes. He is the main character of the second music video.
The clips range from random high school moments, arcade hang out, sleepovers, first dates, Zhang Hao himself reacting to Hanbin's debut, travels, and many more.
When the video ended, the audience cheered loudly, and Zhang Hao became embarrassed. His face was finally seen for the first time by Hanbin's fans. Now, everyone knows he's Hanbin's boyfriend. Fans who started recognising Zhang Hao started taking pictures of him too.
Hanbin appeared on stage after the music video ended. There's a huge smile on his face. "Did everyone enjoy the second music video?"
"Yes!" Everyone shouted.
"Is my boyfriend good-looking?"
"Yes!" Everyone shouted again and it was louder this time.
"I won!" Zhang Hao heard Ricky exclaim but he was still in shock, he didn't bother asking his student what he won.
Just like that, the showcase went smoothly. And the keyword 'Hanbin's boyfriend' was trending on Twitter.
🎤
It's been a week since the showcase, and today is a rare day when Hanbin does not have any schedule so he had promised Zhang Hao he will pick him up from work today.
Hanbin is leaning against his car in the parking lot, waiting for Zhang Hao to come out of the building. A lot of students who passed by recognised him, so he just smiled and waved at them.
When he spotted Zhang Hao, he waves at him. Zhang Hao just smiles and quickens his steps. But a group of students suddenly calls for him.
"Hao-ssaem!" Gyuvin shouts.
Zhang Hao mentally groaned when he heard the familiar voice of his student. Those four rascals have never let him breathe in peace ever since they had confirmed the fact that their idol is dating their teacher.
"How can I help you all?" Zhang Hao turns around and forces a smile on his face.
"Hao-ssaem, can you get Hanbin to sign on our albums?" Yujin's eyes lit up in excitement, an album in one hand and a black marker in the other hand.
"He's right there, you can go ask him yourself." Zhang Hao points to Hanbin.
"No! I don't think I can talk if I'm in front of him. I don't want to make a fool out of myself!" Yujin shakes his head violently. The other three nodded their heads, agreeing with Yujin.
"He's just some guy, there's no need to be nervous in front of him." Zhang Hao laughs at his students. It was his first time seeing them so nervous like this, it's cute.
"That's because he's your boyfriend!" Matthew explained.
"You know what? Let's go, I'll help you since I'm your teacher."
"You're the best teacher!" Gyuvin cheers. "From now onwards, I will pay attention in class and not disappoint you!" He then salutes.
The five of them then approach Hanbin.
"Hey, love." Zhang Hao greets.
"Hi, baby. Who do we have here?" Hanbin grins, looking at the four students behind his boyfriend. "Are they the ones you always talk about?"
"You talked about us?!" Matthew exclaims in shock.
"He even graded your work before." Zhang Hao shrugs.
"What?!" This time, all four of them exclaim in unison.
"Don't worry, I gave everyone an A." Hanbin winks.
"Oh my god, Hanbin winked at me. I can die happily now." Gyuvin smiles, high on epiphany.
"You guys are cute." Hanbin giggles. "So, how can I help you all?" He asked, already eyeing the albums in the boys' hands.
"Can you sign our albums?" Ricky asked. He was the only one that was still keeping his composure, while his three friends were long gone, minds straying far away.
"For sure!" Hanbin signed all of the boys' albums happily while chatting with them.
Zhang Hao who is watching the scene unfold quietly at the side smiles proudly. At times like this, seeing Hanbin in his element makes him so proud of his boyfriend. He had come a long way.
"And done! Here you go, boys!" Hanbin returned their albums, and they even took a group photo.
"As much as I would love to talk with you boys more, we actually have a date to go to." Hanbin apologised.
"Oh yes! We are so sorry for taking your time! We will get going now." Ricky apologises too. "Have fun?" He then drags his friends away.
"Finally, they're gone." Zhang Hao groans playfully. "I've been waiting for this." He said and placed a kiss on Hanbin's cheek.
"Let's go then."
———
The next day, articles with bold words are published again.
"CUTEST COUPLE: HANBIN AND HIS BOYFRIEND!"
“HOW TO GET YOURSELF A LOVER LIKE SUNG HANBIN OR HIS BOYFRIEND!”
🎤