The Extraordinary Mind of Kang Taehyun

by theeuphoricmystery

Summary:

Kang Taehyun is just your normal office worker.

Accept for the fact that he can read minds.

Things get even more complicated when he finds out that his friend, Yeonjun, is in love with him.

This is going to be interesting.

***

Inspired by the TV show 'Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist'.

Chapter 1: headache

When Taehyun woke up that morning, he thought it was going to be like any other day. However, he should have known something was off the moment he sat up in bed, only to realise that he had a headache. A crippling headache to be precise. Taehyun never got headaches. In fact, Taehyun never really got sick.

He groaned as he blinked the sleep out of his eyes, stretching out a yawn. Glancing around the room, his bleary eyes widened when he saw the time on the clock. He'd slept in.

"Shit," he muttered, jumping out of bed and instantly regretting it when his head began to pound. Hopefully there was some medicine hidden somewhere in this apartment.

He wandered out of his bedroom, wincing every time his head would throb from the movement, and saw his roommate and best friend, Beomgyu, sitting at the kitchen table. Beomgyu's boyfriend, Soobin, was also there, as he was most mornings. Taehyun didn’t really mind though, Soobin was a good friend to him, and he made Beomgyu happy, so he was actually a pleasure to have around.

"Morning, Taehyunnie," Beomgyu greeted. "Do you want some breakfast?"

"I don't have time," Taehyun huffed. "I'm late for work, must have forgot to set my alarm." He wandered into the kitchen and began rummaging around the drawers for some pills, medicine, anything he could get his hands on to help relieve the sharp pain in his head. "You could have woken me up, you know, hyung," Taehyun muttered.

"Honestly, you're rarely ever late, I assumed you'd booked the day off," Beomgyu countered. He turned to Soobin and smiled. "Anyway, you should get yourself a boyfriend like me, Soobin's great at waking me up in the morning, isn’t that right, baby?" Beomgyu winked, teasing his boyfriend.

Soobin blushed at Beomgyu's words, smiling shyly, before turning to Taehyun, finally taking in the younger's appearance. "Are you feeling alright, Taehyun? You're looking a little pale."

Taehyun sighed. "I've got a headache. I'm hoping that some medicine will help," he said, as he continued to rummage through the cupboards.

"I moved all of the medicine into the bathroom, Taehyunnie," Beomgyu said as he sipped his coffee. "There should be some aspirin in there."

Taehyun sighed. "Okay, thanks, hyung." He took a deep breath to try and distract himself from the pain, not noticing the concerned looks shared between Beomgyu and Soobin.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Beomgyu asked, brows furrowed in worry. He put his coffee down and reached out his hand to check Taehyun's forehead for a fever. "Now I'm getting a good look at you, you're looking pretty sick."

Taehyun hummed, shaking off Beomgyu's concerns. "Relax, hyung, it's just a headache." He stood up a bit straighter, moving himself out of Beomgyu's reach. "Anyway, I better get ready to go, I'm late enough as it is," he muttered.

Once Taehyun had left the room, Beomgyu turned to Soobin. "Do you think he's really okay? He never gets sick, should we be worried?"

Soobin thought for a moment. It was true, Taehyun was never sick. But if he said he was okay, then they had to trust him. He grabbed Beomgyu's hand and squeezed it in reassurance. "Taehyunnie's strong. Like he said, it's just a headache."

***

About forty minutes later, Taehyun was practically running into the office. He was at least twenty minutes late, the latest he'd ever been since he started working at the company just over a year ago.

After completing his degree in Computer Science, top of his class, he had managed to secure a role as a junior computer programmer in one of the most respected companies in Seoul. When Taehyun found out he'd be working there, he's not ashamed to admit he cried just a little bit with happiness. Him, Beomgyu, and their friend Huening Kai, had spent the entirety of the night celebrating with pizza and ice cream. Taehyun looked back at that time with fond memories.

"Kang Taehyun? Late? Now that is a surprise."

Taehyun groaned as he heard the voice. He strode over to his desk and dumped his bag on the chair, before turning to face the owner of that very familiar voice: Choi Yeonjun, who was sitting casually at his own desk, a teasing smirk painting his features.

"Like you've never been late before," Taehyun retorted as he rolled his eyes. Yeonjun's smirk grew.

"Am I sensing an attitude there?" Yeonjun replied, leaning further back in his chair, looking way too happy for the early morning.

"Whatever," Taehyun murmured as he got ready to start the day, turning on his computer and getting into ‘work mode’.

It was a shame that the headache wasn't disappearing.

"So did you have a good weekend?" Yeonjun asked, voice quiet as the office began to fill up, not wanting to disturb anyone, except Taehyun, so it seemed. Then again, one of Yeonjun's favorite hobbies was annoying Taehyun.

"I literally saw you Saturday," Taehyun replied, eyes never leaving his computer screen.

It was often that Taehyun would see Yeonjun out of work and on their weekends. Yeonjun was Soobin's roommate and best friend, just like how Beomgyu was to Taehyun. It meant that they often all hung out together, mainly because Beomgyu thought Taehyun needed more friends, besides him and Huening Kai.

Taehyun sometimes tried making excuses. He saw Yeonjun at work all the time, he dealt with enough of the elder's annoyance as it was, he didn't need it following him on his days off too. And while he would admit that yes, sometimes Yeonjun was good company, he was mostly just a pain in Taehyun's ass.

"Okay fine," Yeonjun huffed. "Did you have a nice Sunday then?"

"Splendid," Taehyun replied, clearly distracted as he began typing away on the computer. He really wasn't in the mood to entertain Yeonjun today.

Yeonjun raised his eyebrows and sighed, turning to his computer and beginning his own work.

As the hours passed, the office completely went into work mode. The occasional chatter could be heard here and there, but it was generally all quite quiet. Taehyun loved his job, he loved using his brain, call him weird but being a computer programmer and working was almost a form of meditation for him. It helped him forget about his real-life problems.

But today, Taehyun was suffering with this damn headache, and it was making work pretty fucking difficult.

He checked his watch. The morning had actually gone by pretty fast, and it was only twenty minutes until lunch. Taehyun groaned as he threw his head in his hands. He wondered if his boss would let him take it slightly earlier if he asked?

"First you were late, and now you're taking breaks, what a weird day this is turning out to be."

Taehyun sighed at Yeonjun's voice. He looked up and saw the man stood right next to his desk, arms folded, and that same annoying smile on his face. Taehyun's ashamed to admit that when he first saw that smile, he found it a little cute.

He was about to reply, when his boss, Mr. Kim, walked out of his own private office. Mr. Kim was one of the nicest people Taehyun had the pleasure of knowing. He was a great mentor and very professional, but was also incredibly kind and understanding with his staff. The perfect boss, if you asked Taehyun.

It was why Taehyun felt quite comfortable making his 'early' lunch request.

"Mr. Kim," Taehyun called, standing up, wincing slightly as his head throbbed.

Mr. Kim turned around, smiling warmly. "What can I do for you, Taehyun?"

"Would it be okay if I take my lunch earlier today? I'm not feeling too well, I think some air might help," he admitted.

"Of course. Take as long as you need. We need you feeling your best, after all." He smiled at Taehyun, which the latter reciprocated with a small bow. He grabbed his bag from his chair and slung it over his shoulder, beginning to make his way out of the office.

Yeonjun furrowed his brows. "You don't feel well?" He trailed behind Taehyun, eyes roaming over his body, like he'd be able to see the sickness if he looked close enough.

"It's just a headache, I'll be okay," he replied, making his way to the door. He turned around to look at Yeonjun. "See you in an hour, okay?" He gave Yeonjun a small nod as he wandered out, completely missing the concerned expression on Yeonjun's face.

Taehyun sat outside in one of the many parks next to the office. His headache had only gotten worse in the past fifty minutes he'd been here, and it was honestly starting to make him feel really sick all over.

He hadn't been able to eat or focus on anything. Is this what dying felt like? He was starting to get worried now. It shouldn't be normal to have a headache this bad.

He glanced at his watch and sighed. His lunch was almost over.

He stood up, probably a bit too quickly in hindsight, because that was when things started to spin. Maybe he was actually dying. His limbs were heavy, his head was dizzy, his vision blurred, and his ears rang.

He lost consciousness before his head even touched the ground.

***

"Taehyun can you hear me?"

Taehyun groaned. Wasn't he just sat on a park bench? Why was he lying on the floor?

"There you are, open your eyes for me."

Taehyun inwardly sighed, but obeyed the voice. He blinked his eyes open as they adjusted to the light, only to be greeted by the handsome face of none other than Lee Heeseung.

"How do you feel? You took a nasty fall there," Heeseung smiled as he helped Taehyun sit up.

Taehyun wasn't really paying attention to the what was being asked, instead, he was trying to calm his heart over the fact that Lee Heeseung, one of the most fanciable guys in the office, was here talking to him.

"I feel," Taehyun thought for a moment, mentally scanning over his body. Wait, his headache had gone. Completely gone. Did all it take was for him to pass out for it to go? "I feel great, better than I have all day, actually," he replied, smiling widely.

Heeseung nodded, a confused expression taking over his face at Taehyun's sudden outburst of joy. "Well okay then. That's great. I'm glad you're okay."

Taehyun continued to smile as Heeseung helped him to stand up. "Should we head back to the office then?" Heeseung eventually asked, unsure what else to do as Taehyun stared at him.

"Sure," Taehyun replied, as they began walking, with Taehyun feeling a lot lighter now that his headache had gone.

He is a little strange, but still cute.

Taehyun blushed and whipped his head to the side to look at Heeseung. "What did you just say?" Did he hear Heeseung right? He never knew the man to be so bold and forward.

"Hmm?" Heeseung turned to him. He chuckled slightly, "I didn't say anything, are you sure you're okay? Maybe you hit your head when you fell," he said, eyes scanning over Taehyun worriedly.

Taehyun continued to stare at him. Heeseung didn't say anything? He could have sworn he heard something about him being 'cute'. Maybe he was just imagining things, it had been a strange day so far, after all. "Um, yeah. I'm fine."

The two continued to walk in silence, all the way until they were back inside the office, with Taehyun getting the feeling that his headache might have only been the start of his problems for the day.

***

"You're back," Yeonjun noticed, standing up from his desk as his eyes inspected Taehyun. "You took a longer lunch than normal."

"Yeah, well it was quite eventful. I may or may not have passed out," Taehyun admitted, wandering over to his own desk and missing the worried expression that passed over Yeonjun's features. He was honestly quite surprised that Yeonjun had even noticed his longer lunch, the elder seemed too self-absorbed for that. "I feel a lot better now." He turned his attention to Heeseung. "Thanks for your help, Heeseung."

Heeseung smiled. "Anytime. And please, call me hyung." He put his hands in his pockets and shuffled awkwardly. "There's actually something I wanted to ask you."

Taehyung smiled. "Of course, hyung, what is it?"

Heeseung continued to shuffle. It was cute, in Taehyun's opinion. "This may seem like it's coming out of nowhere, but do you fancy going for a drink on Friday?"

"What?" Taehyun and Yeonjun both said at the same time.

Taehyun looked at Yeonjun, raising a questioning brow at the elder's reaction. Yeonjun blushed as he quickly looked away from the two.

Heeseung looked at Yeonjun, then Taehyun, and his own blush began forming on his cheeks. "Oh, uh, oh I'm so sorry. Is there something going on between you two?"

"What?" Taehyun laughed. "No, definitely not." He turned to Yeonjun. "Me and Yeonjun-hyung barely tolerate each other, right?" Taehyun was only really half-joking.

"Right," Yeonjun muttered, slipping his headphones in and going back to work, expression moody as he typed away on his computer.

Taehyun furrowed his brows in confusion at Yeonjun's sudden mood change. He turned to Heeseung. "Friday sounds great."

Heeseung smiled. "Amazing." He looked around awkwardly, as if he didn't know what to do next. "Right, I'll let you get back to work." And with that, he was heading off to his own desk the other side of the office.

Ugh, I wish Lee Heeseung would ask me out.

Taehyun whipped his head round to see one of his co-workers, Yunjn, watching Heeseung's retreating figure.

He's so handsome and charming.

Okay, now that was definitely Yunjin's voice, but her mouth wasn't moving. Wait, did Taehyun just read her mind?

No. Impossible.

As if he'd ever look my way.

Okay, now he was starting to freak the fuck out. "Yunjin-noona," Taehyun started before he could stop himself.

Yunjin turned to him, a polite smile on her lips. "Do you need something, Taehyun?"

Taehyun blinked. "Nothing, don't worry."

Yunjin hadn't said any of those things about Heeseung out loud, had she? Oh god, can Taehyun actually read minds now? Is that what that horrible headache was all about? Oh god, oh god, he's turning into a freak, what's happening to him?

He looked around the office, trying to focus his brain on everyone. He couldn't seem to hear anyone's thoughts, couldn't even hear anything else Yunjin was thinking. Maybe, this 'power' wasn't something he could control. Maybe, he's going to have to learn to master it. Maybe he's turning into a superhero and-

"I can hear you thinking from here."

Taehyun turned to Yeonjun. He almost wanted to laugh at the irony of the elder's words. "Huh?"

Yeonjun chuckled at Taehyun's confusion, features softening considerably to what they'd been moments before. "Just try get some work done, can't have Mr. Kim seeing you slack too much," he joked.

Taehyun nodded dumbly, turning his attention back to his computer. So what if he's just found out he can read minds? Might as well try and actually get some work done today.

A few hours ended up passing by before he even realised. With his headache gone, it was a lot easier to focus than it had been in the morning.

He glanced at his watch. Time had raced by and many of his co-workers were already preparing to go home. He began packing his own things up, ready to go back to his warm bed and sleep away the weirdness of today. He looked up and saw Yeonjun slinging his bag across his shoulder, also getting ready to leave.

It had become an unspoken thing between the two of them to leave work and walk home together. They lived close by, and so it just sort of happened. Sometimes Yeonjun would talk and try to get a conversation out of Taehyun, sometimes they'd both walk in complete silence. Taehyun would never admit it out loud, but he sort of enjoyed his walks home with Yeonjun, they had become part of his routine, somewhat.

He turned to leave the office, knowing Yeonjun would follow. He saw Heeseung across the office, still working away on his computer, and sent the elder a small smile. He ignored the scoff he thought he heard from Yeonjun behind him.

***

"So you're really going to go out with Heeseung?" Yeonjun asked. The two of them walking side by side down the streets of Seoul.

Taehyun turned to him curiously. "Why do you care so much?" His tone wasn't cold or standoffish, he was just genuinely curious about Yeonjun's sudden interest in Taehyun's love life.

Yeonjun huffed. "I don't, not really." He shoved his hands in his pockets. "Just wouldn't have put you two together, is all," he finished, looking ahead as he walked.

Taehyun snorted. "Okay, well thanks for your opinion, it's greatly appreciated," he replied sarcastically, but there was no real heat to his voice.

Yeonjun seemed to sense the jokey tone. "Hey, it's rare I'm ever wrong, you're very lucky to receive my opinion, you know? Most people would pay to hear my words of wisdom."

Taehyun shoved him lightly in retaliation, a small smile crossing his features. Yeonjun smiled back, a familiar twinkle in his eye. Taehyun liked Yeonjun in these moments, when they could laugh together and enjoy each other's company without the elder being an annoying ass.

"So what was up with you today, anyway? First you felt sick, then you passed out, and you generally just seemed a lot weirder than normal," Yeonjun commented, changing the subject.

Taehyun rolled his eyes. "I told you I had a headache, it threw me off a bit," he said, not wanting to reveal everything that had happened to him during the day.

Like reading minds, for example.

"Whatever you say," Yeonjun replied. He slung his bag further up his shoulder, then suddenly stopped walking as he stared at Taehyun.

Taehyun hadn't even realised it, but they'd reached the street corner where they usually said goodbye. Taehyun didn't know if he really wanted Yeonjun to go. Even with everything unusual that had happened today, he could always rely on Yeonjun to be that (annoying) constant in his life.

"Well, see you tomorrow," Yeonjun said.

There's definitely something different about him today.

Taehyun sighed. Here his brain goes again, reading minds, even Yeonjun's. Just when he thought maybe he'd imagined the whole thing. "Yeah, see you tomorrow, I guess."

I love you, you know.

Taehyun's head shot up, eyes widening. "What?"

"What?" Yeonjun asked, confused.

Taehyun continued to stare at him. Had he heard Yeonjun right? "You… you just said," he fumbled over his words. "Say it again."

"Uh, see you tomorrow?" Yeonjun repeated, getting more confused as the seconds passed and Taehyun continued staring at him with his own wide, confused eyes.

"Um, okay," Taehyun mumbled to himself. He tried reading Yeonjun's mind again, tried to focus his own mind as he looked straight up at the elder. Nothing. Why couldn't he control this stupid power? He gave Yeonjun a final glance, with said man looking back at him with a raised brow and a ghost of a smile on his lips, clearly a little amused. Taehyun sighed, he really wanted today to be over. "Ugh, see you tomorrow." And with that, Taehyun turned and practically ran in the other direction.

"What the fuck was that?" Yeonjun asked himself, letting out a small and confused chuckle as he watched Taehyun's retreating figure.

***

"Hyung," Taehyun called, as he entered his apartment, kicking his shoes off and running into the kitchen where Beomgyu was.

"What?" Beomgyu asked, eyes never leaving the stove as he stirred the pot of ramen.

Taehyun began pacing up and down. "I think," he began to sweat as he thought back to the events of the day. "I think I've developed this strange power that allows me to read minds."

Beomgyu laughed. "Okay, sure. Now what's the real issue?"

"It's true," Taehyun insisted, walking over to the man, hands on his hips. "Hyung, really, it's been freaking me out all afternoon."

The elder turned to look at Taehyun. "Okay, then what am I thinking about right now?" Beomgyu challenged, raising a brow.

Taehyun faltered. "I don't know," he admitted. "I don't think I've properly learned how to control it yet, I just hear the odd thought," he finished, voice trailing off into a mumble.

Beomgyu's face softened, Taehyun sounded dejected, and Beomgyu hated upsetting his best friend. But c'mon, Taehyun had just walked in spouting nonsense, how was Beomgyu supposed to react? "How are you feeling anyway?" he asked, trying to change the subject.

Taehyun sighed. "Fine, I fainted at lunch, the headache went, and then I started reading minds."

"Fainted?" Beomgyu asked in shock. "Taehyun, what?"

"Relax, hyung. I'm fine," Taehyun reassured.

Beomgyu assessed him, making sure Taehyun was telling the truth. There were no physical marks, so Beomgyu felt a tiny bit better. "Want some ramyeon?" he eventually asked.

Taehyun nodded, managing a small smile. "Please." He sat down at the table as Beomgyu served him his food. "Thanks, hyung."

The two ate in comfortable silence. Taehyun had his head down, suddenly feeling so exhausted by the events of the day. He just wanted to eat his dinner, have a warm shower, and snuggle in his bed with his favorite series.

He seems really quiet this evening, I hope he's okay.

Taehyun sighed. "Yes, I'm okay, hyung. You know you don't have to worry so much about me."

"What?" Beomgyu said, voice raising in surprise. "Did you just, did you read my mind just then?"

Taehyun nodded. "I told you, hyung. It's been the weirdest day, only made weirder when I found out that Yeonjun-hyung is apparently in love with me," he finished, shoving noodles into his mouth as sauce dribbled down his chin.

"What?" Beomgyu repeated. "Yeonjun-hyung told you that?"

"No," Taehyun rolled his eyes. Had Beomgyu not listened to anything he’d said? "I read his mind. Like I've been saying since I got home, I can read minds now, hyung."

"Wow," Beomgyu started. "I have to say, I never thought you'd find out about Yeonjun-hyung's feelings like this," he confessed, shoving a bite of his own noodles into his mouth.

Now it was Taehyun's turn to be surprised. "What?" Taehyun demanded. "You're saying you knew about his feelings for me?"

Beomgyu nodded. "Well, yeah, Taehyunnie, he's kinda obvious. And besides," he shrugged, ignoring the glare he was receiving from the younger, "Soobin-hyung told me."

"So Soobin-hyung knew about this too?" Taehyun asked, why was he only just hearing about all of this now?

"Taehyun," Beomgyu sighed. How could one of the smartest people he knew be so incredibly stupid sometimes? "Soobin is Yeonjun's best friend, of course he knows. Yeonjun is probably always telling him about how cute you are," he teased, smiling at Taehyun.

Taehyun sat back in his chair and huffed. "I doubt it. You've seen how much he likes to annoy me, I'm not sure if he even likes me that much," Taehyun trailed off, but even he was doubting his own words. Yes, Yeonjun annoyed and teased him, but whenever Taehyun was having a down day, the elder was always there, trying to cheer him up.

Beomgyu sighed. "Taehyun, that's called flirting. He does all that for your attention, you know?"

Taehyun didn't reply. He just really wanted his hot shower and warm bed and to pretend like today never happened. Beomgyu seemed to sense the younger's sad mood. He ruffled Taehyun's hair and began cleaning up their dinner. "You go rest, hyung will take care of this."

Taehyun sent Beomgyu a grateful smile as he stood up and made his way into the bathroom.

It was only when he was alone in the shower that the weight of Yeonjun's words really hit him.

Yeonjun was in love with him. What the hell was Taehyun supposed to do now?

Chapter 2: hearing thoughts

Taehyun took a deep breath as he stepped into the elevator on his way up to the office. Yesterday had definitely been the weirdest day of his life so far, and he doubted today was going to be any better. He'd wanted to talk things through with Beomgyu this morning. His best friend might have had some answers to his long list of questions. How should he act around Yeonjun? Should he tell Yeonjun he knows about his feelings for him? Should he still go for that drink with Heeseung on Friday?

Oh, shit. With all the weirdness of yesterday, Taehyun completely forgot to tell Beomgyu about Heeseung asking him out. There hadn't been any time in the morning, with Beomgyu already walking out the door and leaving for work by the time Taehyun was dressed and eating his breakfast.

"On time today I see," Yeonjun chuckled, appearing out of nowhere as he stepped inside the elevator, standing right next to Taehyun.

I wonder if he can smell my cologne?

Taehyun blushed. Yes, he could smell it. He remembered that he'd commented on it once. It was a Saturday night around three months ago when him and Yeonjun, along with Beomgyu, Soobin, and Huening Kai, had gone to a bar to celebrate Huening Kai's birthday. He remembered being a little drunk, the alcohol giving him the confidence to tell Yeonjun he smelt really good as he giggled and leaned into the elder's space. He still felt embarrassed whenever he thought about that night. Not so much because of Yeonjun, the elder never used it against him, but more because Beomgyu still liked to tease him about it to this day.

Yeonjun had worn that cologne pretty much every day since. Taehyun had never given it much thought before, but after hearing the elder's thoughts, it was obvious that Yeonjun wearing it was purposeful, like he wanted Taehyun to notice.

"You smell nice," Taehyun commented, because it was true, Yeonjun did smell as good as he had that night in the bar.

Yeonjun's eyes twinkled, his smile widening. Taehyun thought he looked a little cute.

But he was still a massive pain in the ass, he added to himself, as an afterthought.

They rode the rest of the short elevator ride in a comfortable silence, with Taehyun hearing the occasional thought from Yeonjun.

And Soobin said I should stop wearing this cologne, what an idiot!

Ugh, so much work to do.

Taehyun looks really cute today.

Taehyun blushed at the last thought, purposefully trying not to look at Yeonjun.

The two stepped into the office, Taehyun sitting down at his desk, Yeonjun doing the same. He shot a quick glance at the elder, who was busy setting up his computer for the day. Taehyun tried reading his mind again, but it seemed his 'power' didn't want to cooperate right now.

"Hey, Taehyun."

Taehyun turned his attention away from Yeonjun to see Heeseung making his way over. He sent him a polite smile. "Everything alright, hyung?"

Heeseung returned the smile with a shy one of his own. He really was handsome, Taehyun thought. "How are you feeling today?"

"A lot better, thanks," Taehyun replied. "Yesterday was a little crazy, but I'm hoping today runs smoother."

Heeseung nodded. "Good. That's really good." He continued to hover by Taehyun's desk. "But, just in case you are still feeling a little sick, how about I accompany you to lunch today? I don't want you passing out alone again," he half-joked.

Please say yes.

Taehyun blushed at Heeseung's thoughts, but he couldn't fight the small smile that crossed his features. Taehyun didn't have to read minds to know that the majority of the office fancied Heeseung, it was extremely flattering to know the elder was interested in him. "Sure, that sounds great."

A smile lit up Heeseung's features. "Okay, great." He looked like he wanted to continue the conversation, but someone from across the office was calling his name. He gave Taehyun a small nod. "See you at lunch then," he smiled, before making his way over to the other side of the office.

Taehyun continued to blush as he turned on his computer. He had a lunch date with Heeseung. Wait until he told Beomgyu.

Taehyun was broken out of his thoughts when he heard a scoff. He turned to see Yeonjun sat at his desk with an annoyed expression on his face.

Ah. That can't have been a nice thing for him to see. Now Taehyun felt a little bad.

"Hey, Yeonjun-hyung," he called before he could stop himself.

The elder glanced at him, then turned back to his computer screen, the annoyance never leaving his face. "What?" he asked moodily as he clicked away on the mouse.

Taehyun's mouth moved before his brain. He didn't know why, but right now he hated seeing Yeonjun sad, and he really wanted to cheer him up. "Do you maybe fancy grabbing dinner after work?"

Yeonjun's face shifted from annoyed to confused to happy so quickly it was almost comical. "Uhh, sure. Yeah, that sounds great," he beamed at Taehyun.

Taehyun smiled. At least Yeonjun looked happy again.

Did Taehyun jusk ask me on a date? Am I dreaming?

Taehyun's smile quickly fell from his face. Wait, did Yeonjun think he was asking him out on a date? Oh god.

Taehyun was just trying to cheer him up, he really wasn't trying to start anything romantic with the elder. Yes, Yeonjun was handsome, anyone could see that, but Taehyun hadn't really ever thought of him as anything more than his annoying friend. In fact, the two only ever really became friends in the first place because of Beomgyu and Soobin.

At the office Christmas party last year, employees were allowed to bring one guest. Taehyun had brought Beomgyu along as his, while Yeonjun had brought Soobin. That was actually the first time Beomgyu and Soobin met each other. The two ended up spending the whole night together, chatting and laughing, before sharing a kiss under the mistletoe. Since then, their relationship only continued to grow, with their eleven month anniversary soon approaching.

Honestly, the couple of months before that Christmas party, when Taehyun had first joined the company, he barely spoke to Yeonjun. At first glance, he thought Yeonjun was handsome, but that was about it. The elder had tried striking up conversations, but this was Taehyun's first job and he was so determined to do well he didn't really pay Yeonjun that much attention because he didn't want any distractions. He has some regrets about that as he knows he should have been friendlier, but it was truly never intentional to be so standoffish. However, Yeonjun seemed to find Taehyun's 'rudeness' funny, which in turn wound up Taehyun, and so the two never became the best of friends immediately. Instead, Taehyun would go home and complain to Beomgyu about this 'annoying ass' in the office. Unfortunately for Taehyun, when his friends met Yeonjun, they ended up loving him. So Taehyun had no choice but to hang out with him outside of work whenever his group of friends decided they wanted to do something.

Though as time passed, things started to change. Yes, Yeonjun still annoyed him, especially when he tried to get a rise out of Taehyun by teasing him and just being a general annoyance, but Taehyun also discovered that Yeonjun was a really sweet guy. Besides work, they never really hung out when it was just the two of them, but Taehyun had definitely started considering Yeonjun as one of his friends.

However, before yesterday, he had never even looked at Yeonjun in a romantic light. And now he was apparently unknowingly asking the elder on a date.

When Taehyun glanced at Yeonjun, he could see the big smile the elder was wearing as he worked away on his computer.

Taehyun sighed. How did he get himself into this mess?

***

"Are you sure you don't want anything to eat?" Heeseung asked Taehyun.

The two had come to a coffee shop nearby their office for lunch. Heeseung had ordered a sandwich, but Taehyun had just stuck to a caramel macchiato, feeling too anxious to stomach anything else.

"Yeah, I had a big breakfast," Taehyun lied. He couldn't help but feel guilty about the whole situation regarding Yeonjun. The elder had looked disappointed when him and Heeseung had left the office together for lunch, and Taehyun didn't know why, but it made him feel really awful. Was he leading Yeonjun on somehow? That certainly wasn't his intention.

"Well if you do get hungry, you can always have a bite of my sandwich," Heeseung laughed. Taehyun returned it with a smile of his own.

The two sat in a somewhat awkward silence. They hadn't really spoken that much before yesterday, and now here they were on a 'lunch date'.

"So, how are you finding work-" Hesseung started, before being cut off by Taehyun's phone.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

Taehyun checked the Caller ID. It read 'Mom', and Taehyun sighed, quickly declining the call. His mom had tried ringing him the night before, but Taehyun had been too exhausted from the day's events that he'd fallen asleep. He was meant to ring back in the morning, but again, had run out of time. He certainly wasn't going to answer the call while out with Heeseung.

"Sorry," he apologized to Heeseung. He turned his phone on silent and shoved it in his bag. "What were you saying, hyung?"

"Uhh, nothing," Heeseung replied. He gestured to Taehyun's bag. "You can answer it if you want?"

"Oh no it's fine, it's just my mom," Taehyun smiled. "I'll call her later." He took a sip of his drink as Heeseung took a bite of his sandwich. Taehyun couldn't help it, but something about the situation caused him to burst into a fit of giggles.

It was apparently contagious, as Heeseung also began laughing. "What?"

"Nothing," Taehyun chuckled, laughter dying down. "It's just, this is slightly awkward, isn't it?"

Heeseung hummed. "A little," he agreed. He smiled at Taehyun. "Honestly, I just really wanted to hang out with you, we've never properly spoken before. And I know I can be a little awkward, I guess I'm just shy."

The complete opposite of Yeonjun, Taehyun thought. The elder was one of the most confident people Taehyun knew. From the first day the younger had walked into the office, Yeonjun had been one of the first people to introduce himself. Taehyun himself was quite reserved, but Yeonjun always had something to say. In fact, Taehyun's not sure if he'd ever even had an awkward moment with the elder.

Wait, why was he thinking about Yeonjun? He was here with Heeseung. Oh god, this wasn't the beginning of some sort of love triangle, was it?

"Taehyun?" Heeseung asked.

Taehyun snapped out of his daze. He'd been getting lost in his thoughts too much recently, he really needed to stop thinking as much as he did. "Sorry," he said. "What was it you were saying?"

Heeseung chuckled. "I was talking about Friday. Are you still up for drinks in the evening?" Heeseung paused. "As friends, of course," he blushed.

But you're really cute, and I wish that it wasn't as friends.

Taehyun gave him a soft smile. There was something really lovely about Heeseung. "Sure, I'm looking forward to it."

***

The afternoon in the office went by quickly. Taehyun hadn't even realised it was time to leave until he felt a looming shadow hovering over him that belonged to Yeonjun.

"You ready to go?" the elder asked, a ghost of a smile on his lips. He had been pretty down all afternoon, ever since Taehyun had come back from lunch with Heeseung. Taehyun hadn't seen him smile once in the last few hours, and it was something he wasn't used to because Yeonjun was a pretty happy person.

Taehyun nodded as he turned off his computer. He grabbed his coat and slung his bag over his shoulder, purposefully trying not to look at Heeseung as he left. Technically, he wasn't dating either of these guys, but he still felt incredibly guilty. He really needed Beomgyu's advice right now, his best friend would know what to do.

"So what do you want to eat?" Taehyun asked, zipping his coat up to protect himself from the bitter cold as they exited the office and walked along the streets outside.

Yeonjun turned to him. "Fried chicken?" he smiled, eyes lighting up. It was no secret that fried chicken was one of their joint favorite foods.

Taehyun smiled. "Sure."

They walked along in silence as they headed to the restaurant. They'd got food there a few times before, so there was no argument about where would be best to go.

He looks so cold. Hopefully he warms up when we get inside.

Despite his shivering, Taehyun felt a warmth spread through his chest at Yeonjun's thoughts. He really had no idea that the elder was this caring.

How easy it would be for me to reach out and hold his hand. I bet that would warm him up.

Taehyun blushed as he put both of his hands in his pockets. Holding hands might not be the smartest thing to do right now, especially as he wasn't quite sure what was going on between him and Heeseung.

The two arrived at the restaurant and grabbed a table. The service was quick, especially because Taehyun was good friends with one of the waitresses who had just started working there, Chaewon, who he knew from college.

"Taehyun, how are you?" Chaewon smiled as they entered.

"Good thank you, Chaewon-noona," he replied. "We'll just get some fried chicken if that's okay?"

"Sure," Chaewon said. Her eyes shifted to Yeonjun, a small blush forming on her cheeks. She quickly turned back to Taehyun. "Any drinks?"

"Just some water's fine," Taehyun smiled, shifting his eyes between her and Yeonjun.

"Cola, please," Yeonjun smiled. Whether it was meant to be flirtatious or not, it still had Chaewon blushing as she walked away from their table.

You've still got it, Yeonjun.

Taehyun tried holding back his laugh, but he couldn't stop the little snort that left him.

Yeonjun raised a questioning brow at him. "Something funny?"

Taehyun shook his head, fighting back his smile. "No. Nothing at all."

Chaewon returned with their drinks, giving Yeonjun an extra large smile as she set his down in front of him. Yeonjun winked in return, causing Chaewon's cheeks to redden even more.

She's cute.

"Yeah, Chaewon-noona's lovely," Taehyun replied, eyes widening when he realised he'd answered Yeonjun's inner thoughts. Oh no. Yeonjun was looking at him like he was crazy. The elder's face had morphed into a state of bewilderment. How was Taehyun going to change the topic of this conversation from potentially talking about his newly acquired mind reading ability? "Why don't you ask her out?" he suggested, mouth moving before his brain could think.

"You- wait, what?" Yeonjun asked. "You think I should ask out Chaewon?"

"Why not?" Taehyun shrugged. "She's single, you're single. And she clearly fancies you. What have you got to lose?" Taehyun didn't know if this was a good idea or not. The past twenty-four hours had been an emotional rollercoaster for him, he wasn't even sure about his feelings towards Yeonjun right now. Still, maybe if Yeonjun was seeing someone else, Taehyun could forget the elder's thoughts about being 'in love' with him, and the two could resume their relationship to what it was before. "Well?"

Yeonjun looked at a loss for words. "I mean, I guess." He stared at Taehyun then with an unreadable expression, and Taehyun really wished in that moment that his power would have let him read the elder's mind. Yeonjun eventually looked away and sighed. "Okay, why not."

Taehyun nodded, about to reply, when his phone started ringing. He pulled it out of his bag and saw 'Mom' calling. He looked up at Yeonjun apologetically. "Sorry, hyung. I better take this."

Yeonjun smiled, gesturing for him to take the call.

Taehyun pulled the phone to his ear as he answered. "Hi, Mom. Everything okay?"

"Taehyun, I've been trying to reach you for a whole day."

"Yeah, sorry. I fell asleep pretty early last night, it was a stressful day." He glanced at Yeonjun from across the table, but the elder was playing on his phone, a subtle sign that he was giving Taehyun privacy. "Look Mom, you've rang me a couple of times, what's happened?"

"Oh, nothing too serious, darling. Your grandfather just had a nasty fall. He's okay, he's at home resting. But I just thought you should know, I bet he'd quite like you to come and see him too."

Taehyun sighed. "How bad was the fall?"

Taehyun's grandfather had been very sick for the past year. His body was getting weaker day by day, and the doctors didn't know how much longer he had left. Taehyun had been to visit him more times in the past few months than he could count. It was okay though, he didn't mind. He'd always been close to his grandfather, and he was one of Taehyun's favorite people in the world.

"He's okay, darling. He's just a bit bruised. He's in a bit of a bad mood about it, I think, because he keeps refusing to eat."

"Okay, um, give me twenty minutes, I'll come now," Taehyun replied.

"Oh no, Taehyun, you don't have to do that. I just wanted to let you know-"

"It's fine mom, I want to come."

He and his mom exchanged quick goodbyes, with Taehyun turning to Yeonjun after he hung up the phone. Yeonjun seemed to sense that it might be something to do with his grandfather when he saw Taehyun's worried expression. Taehyun had told his friends about his grandfather when they'd all been hanging out at Taehyun and Beomgyu's apartment one night. He'd ended up breaking down as he revealed his grandfather's time was almost up, and how he didn't know how he was going to cope if he lost one of the most important people in his life. All of his friends had been there for him. Beomgyu and him had cuddled in Taehyun's bed that night, Huening Kai had promised he would be there whenever Taehyun wanted to talk, Soobin had bought the younger his favorite snacks, and Yeonjun, well Yeonjun had simply stayed with him. He'd sat with Taehyun for a whole hour until the younger had cried himself dry.

"I'm sorry, hyung," Taehyun started. "Something's come up and-"

Yeonjun smiled. It was one of his soft smiles, reserved only for the ones he cared about most. Taehyun felt pretty special to be on the receiving end of it. "It's okay, Taehyunnie. I understand. You should go."

Taehyun looked hesitant. "Are you sure you'll be okay?"

"Of course I will be," Yeonjun replied. Just then, Chaewon returned with their food. Yeonjun smiled at her. "You don't happen to have time for a short break, do you, Chaewon?"

Chaewon blushed. Taehyun gave her a polite smile, quickly leaving the table and heading for the exit. He didn't know why, but something compelled him to turn around before he left. He looked and saw Chaewon taking the seat that Taehyun had just vacated, all smiles as Yeonjun spoke to her.

He'd just told Yeonjun to ask her out, but he still couldn't help but acknowledge that the sight of them together made him him feel a little sad.

***

Taehyun wrapped his coat further around himself as he knocked on his parents' door. The winter air had only seemed to have gotten colder since he had left the restaurant twenty minutes ago.

Luckily he wasn't stood outside for too long, as his mom answered pretty quickly, opening the door and pulling her son into a big hug. "How are you, darling?"

Taehyun managed a small smile. "I'm okay." He walked inside, the warmth immediately flooding his body. It was like stepping into a warm and fuzzy blanket. He gestured to the living room where he knew his grandfather would be. "How's he doing?"

His mom reached up and brushed her hands through his hair. "Like I said, he's fine. I even managed to get him to eat a sandwich ten minutes ago." She sighed at Taehyun's worried expression. "Why don't you go and see him? I'll be in the kitchen if you need me," she said softly, kissing her son's cheek before walking away and giving Taehyun and her father some privacy.

Taehyun took a deep breath as he wandered over to where his grandfather was sat on the couch watching television. "Hi, Grandpa," he whispered, taking a seat next to him.

"Taehyun, you came to visit me. What a lovely surprise." His grandfather was all smiles as he observed Taehyun.

What a beautiful and handsome boy you've become.

Taehyun didn’t know why, but his eyes suddenly filled with tears.

"Why are you crying, Taehyun?" his grandfather asked, wiping away his grandson's tears with his thumb. "Ah there there, dry those eyes of yours."

Taehyun willed the tears to stop. "I love you, Grandpa," he said.

His grandfather stroked his hair. "I love you too, Taehyun. My sweet, sweet boy." He pulled Taehyun into a hug. They both sat like that for a while, absentmindedly watching the television, Taehyun's mom eventually came in to join them.

What a beautiful daughter and grandson I have. I'm so, so happy right now.

Taehyun smiled at his grandfather's thoughts. Yes this mind reading power thing was strange, but in times like this, Taehyun was pretty thankful for it.

Chapter 3: choices

"I still can't believe you have a date," Beomgyu remarked, spraying a product of god knows what all over Taehyun's hair. The latter wriggled around in his seat to show his discomfort. Beomgyu frowned at him. "Stop moving Taehyunnie, it's just a little hairspray," he tutted.

Taehyun sighed as he swatted Beomgyu's hand away. It was currently Friday night, and he was sat in his bedroom with Beomgyu stood behind him. He had his 'date' with Heeseung that evening, and so his best friend had offered to help him get ready, applying a subtle bit of makeup around his eyes and trying to sort out the mess that was his hair. "Okay, firstly, who uses that much hairspray?" Taehyun asked, to which Beomgyu rolled his eyes. "And second, I'm not entirely sure if you could even call tonight a date." He turned to glare at Beomgyu. "And what do you mean you can't believe it? There's nothing weird about me going on a date," he stated, folding his arms and proceeding to sulk.

Beomgyu rolled his eyes at his best friend.

You're so sensitive sometimes.

Taehyun stared at him impassively. "I heard that, hyung," he said, moodiness prevalent in his tone.

Beomgyu tutted. "You know I'm just teasing you, Taehyunnie." He took a seat on the edge of the bed. "I'm still not sure if I like this new power of yours," he commented, though his tone was light, a sign that he was joking.

Taehyun turned around from where he was sat so he could look at Beomgyu. "How do you think I feel?" he retorted, though his mouth lifted into a small smile at the elder's 'joke'.

Beomgyu smiled. "You know I love you really," he grinned. He continued to stare at Taehyun for a long moment, the smile falling from his face. Taehyun raised his eyebrows in confusion.

"What?" Taehyun asked as his best friend continued to look at him, as if searching for an answer to something.

Beomgyu sighed, the mood had shifted from light to serious. It was clear Beomgyu had something to say, Taehyun didn't have to be able to read minds to know that. "Look Taehyunnie, I don't think it's weird that you have a date," he reassured his best friend. "It's just, I can't remember the last time you went on one," Beomgyu confessed. "Are you sure you really wanna go out with Heeseung tonight?"

Taehyun took a deep breath. He knew what Beomgyu wanted to say. There was a familiar look in his eye that he often got when he thought Taehyun's actions were questionable. "Just say it, hyung."

Beomgyu shuffled awkwardly. "It's just, what about Yeonjun-hyung? I mean, you know about his feelings for you now. I thought that you two might, you know, make a go of things," Beomgyu trailed off, hesitantly glancing at his best friend to check his reaction. Yeonjun had become somewhat of a touchy subject for Taehyun recently.

Taehyun let out a sigh. "Honestly, hyung, I'm really confused about my feelings for Yeonjun-hyung right now," he admitted truthfully. Yes, talking about Yeonjun in the past few days had been a sore subject for Taehyun, but if there was one person he could be honest about it all with, it was Beomgyu. He turned back round, glancing at his reflection in the mirror that sat on his desk in front of him. "Besides, he's dating Chaewon-noona now, so there's not much I can really do."

Beomgyu scoffed. "Yeah, only because you told him to ask her out in the first place," he stated. "Seriously Taehyun, they only met each other a few days ago. Yeonjun-hyung has pretty much loved you since he met you." Beomgyu sighed as he observed Taehyun, whose expression had developed a hint of sadness to it at hearing the elder's words. "All I'm saying is," Beomgyu started, voice taking on a softer tone. "Just make sure you're going out with Heeseung tonight because it's what you really want. Don't do it just because you're confused about your feelings for Yeonjun." He gave Taehyun a warm smile. "I'm support you no matter what though, you know that right?"

Taehyun nodded, returning his best friend's smile with a small one of his own. "I do want to go out with Heeseung tonight, hyung." He paused as thoughts of Yeonjun filled his mind. "I haven't figured out all of my feelings yet for Yeonjun-hyung, but I'm really gonna try and not lead anyone on. The last thing I want is for somebody to get hurt, especially not Yeonjun," he reassured.

Beomgyu nodded, satisfied with the answer. "Well in that case, it looks like you're pretty much ready to go," he exclaimed standing up, Taehyun following suit. He gave Taehyun a hug of encouragement. "You look amazing, by the way. My best friend is all grown up."

Taehyun chuckled, glancing down at his outfit. He was wearing a pair of casual jeans and a loose, oversized shirt. Him and Heeseung were only going to a bar in town, after all, so he didn't need to dress too fancy. "It's all thanks to you, hyung," he smiled, gesturing to his appearance. "Seriously, you're like a professional when it comes to hair and makeup."

Beomgyu laughed. "Well, you know how it is, Soobin's so handsome, and early on in our relationship I wanted to look good for him." He looked Taehyun directly in the eyes, a seriousness overtaking his features. "Remember to call if you need me. I'm at home alone tonight so I'll come and get you if Heeseung turns out to be some sort of creep," he half-joked, though his tone carried a hint of sincerity to it.

Taehyun was going to make a joke about his best friend not needing to be so protective, when he realised what Beomgyu had just said. He tilted his head in confusion. "Wait, since when do you spend Friday nights alone? Where's Soobin-hyung?"

Beomgyu's smile widened. "Oh, you know, his birthday's coming up, so I told him to stay away. I need to start planning," he replied. "You're okay with having a party here by the way, aren't you?" Though Taehyun could tell there wasn't much room for argument.

Taehyun laughed. "Sure. And even if I said no, it wouldn't make much difference, would it?"

Beomgyu shook his head as he walked Taehyun to the door. "Not really, no." He smiled as he handed Taehyun his coat. "Good luck, Taehyunnie."

Taehyun took a deep breath to calm his 'first date' nerves as he slipped the coat on. "Thanks, hyung." He gave his best friend one final hug before heading out into the winter night.

***

"You look great," Heeseung smiled, the expression lighting up his handsome features.

Him and Taehyun were sat at a small table in the corner of a bar. It was a smallish place and wasn't too busy despite it being a Friday night, which Taehyun was thankful for. He didn't want to risk hearing loads of strangers' thoughts and have some sort of sensory overload. Was that even possible? He still didn't really know that much about this new power of his.

Taehyun blushed. "Thank you," he replied, a small smile playing on his lips. "You look really nice, too." He glanced around the bar, missing the pinkness that had worked its way across Heeseung's cheeks. Taehyun had never been here before, but he liked it. The lights were dim, the music was chilled, and it overall had a nice atmosphere. "I didn't expect you to pick a place like this," he commented, turning back to Heeseung.

Heeseung tilted his head in confusion. "What were you expecting?"

Taehyun hummed in thought. "I'm not sure," he started. "I guess I find it hard to picture you anywhere outside the office," he admitted sheepishly.

Heeseung nodded. "I guess I do find it hard to switch off from work sometimes." He gave Taehyun a large smile. "I don't really hang out with that many people from the office, so I'll admit that I was a bit nervous about tonight, but I'm really glad you came."

Oh god, did Heeseung have any idea how charming he was? Taehyun fought the blush that threatened to bloom across his face as he smiled. "Me too," he replied, taking a sip of his drink with the hope it would help cool him down, and grimacing at the strong flavour of alcohol.

Him and Heeseung sat in silence for a while after that. It wasn't awkward, but it also wasn't completely comfortable. It was clear the two didn't really know what to talk about, they just didn't know each other well enough. They both seemed a bit shy around each other as well, which made it even more challenging to start up a conversation.

"I'm sorry," Heeseung eventually said.

Taehyun looked at him, brows furrowing in confusion. "What are you sorry for?"

Because I wanted you to have a really good time tonight, but you're probably bored out of your mind.

"Just, you know, I know I'm not very conversational," Heeseung trailed off, playing with the straw of the drink in front of him. "And I don't know if this is a date, or a friend date, or whatever, but I still want you to have a really fun night." He glanced at Taehyun with a nervous expression.

Taehyun's eyes softened. "It's fine, hyung, really. I'm not exactly sat here saying much," he admitted. "I'm having a good time," he added on, just to reassure Heeseung's inner thoughts.

Heeseung smiled. "Okay, that's good to hear." He looked around awkwardly as if looking for something else to say to fill the silence that had once again overtaken them.

Taehyun took another sip of his drink. "How about we get to know each other a bit better. Ask me something you want to know," he smiled, leaning slightly more forward on the chair, the alcohol giving him a little more confidence. "Anything you want."

Heeseung shuffled around in his seat. "Well, there is one thing. It's probably best if we get this out of the way now anyway." He scratched the back of his neck awkwardly. "What's going on between you and Yeonjun exactly?"

Taehyun choked on his drink. "What?" He definitely hadn't seen that coming.

Heeseung shrugged. "Its just, you both seem quite close with each other, is all," Heeseung commented, taking a sip of his own drink. "I always see you leave work together, and I've heard that you hang out outside the office as well," Heeseung trailed off, voice mumbling.

And I've seen the way he looks at you.

Taehyun could feel anxiety overtake him. Why was Heeseung bringing up Yeonjun now? In that moment, Taehyun really wanted to call Beomgyu and go home. He wanted to wash the makeup off his face and collapse into bed, ready to sleep away any thoughts of Yeonjun, who seemed to be overtaking his life right now. Taehyun was already confused about his newfound feelings for the elder, and he thought this 'date' with Heeseung might help him forget about Yeonjun for just one night. But no, he couldn't even get a single night off.

"Well if you thought something was going on between me and Yeonjun, why bother even asking me out in the first place?" Taehyun eventually asked, annoyance evident in his tone as he avoided answering Heeseung's question.

Heeseung's eyes widened when he took in Taehyun's sudden moody expression. "No, no, I didn't mean to upset you. It's just, you guys seem close and, look, I know you guys said there was nothing going on but, there's no denying you two have chemistry," he reasoned. "It's not just me who thinks it either, Jay even told me to not bother asking you out because he thought you and Yeonjun were dating." Heeseung took a deep breath to try and regain some of his composure. "Look, I just want to be sure because I like you, Taehyun. You're really smart and cute, and I just really don't want to get hurt down the line, do you know what I mean?" Heeseung spoke softly, staring at Taehyun.

Taehyun shifted around in his seat. The annoyance had left him, and now the only thing he felt was guilt. Was he leading Heeseung on by agreeing to come tonight? "No, it's okay. I get it." He let out a deep sigh. "I like you too, Heeseung. But to be honest with you, I may or may not have developed some feelings towards Yeonjun-hyung recently."

Heeseung nodded as he gave a sad smile, like he'd been expecting the answer. "Okay, I appreciate your honesty."

And so… between me and Yeonjun, who would you choose?

Taehyun sighed. Right now, if he answered that question, he knows it will be something Heeseung probably wouldn't like to hear. "I don't want to lead you on." He paused for a moment, giving Heeseung a sad smile. "Look, maybe I should go. I'm sorry, this all just doesn't seem fair on you." He tried to ignore Heeseung's protests of 'at least finish your drink first' and 'don't feel like you have to leave'. "I'll see you at the office, yeah? We probably shouldn't be trying to have a serious conversation with all this alcohol around anyway," he joked, trying to make light of the situation.

Heeseung chuckled, but it looked a little forced. "Try not to feel so bad, Taehyun. You haven't led me on in any way, okay? And I'm still really glad you came out with me tonight." He stood up and gave Taehyun a goodbye hug, which the younger returned. "I'll see you Monday," Heeseung reassured, smiling down at Taehyun.

Taehyun nodded. "See you," he smiled, leaving the bar quickly. It didn't matter what Heeseung said, Taehyun couldn't help but feel guilty about everything.

He did hear one last thought from Heeseung before he left.

You'll choose Yeonjun in the end, won’t you?

Taehyun paused. Taehyun had always found Yeonjun attractive, but he just seemed to have become... more attractive in the past week. Taehyun had noticed his cheeky smiles across the office, his furrowed brows and small pout when he would concentrate, the way he'd brush his hair back from his face with his arm flexing as he did so. And yes their relationship wasn't perfect. Yeonjun annoyed him so much, but he was also one of Taehyun's favorite people to be around, making him laugh like no one else, always wanting to listen to everything and anything Taehyun had to say. By trying to date Heeseung, was Taehyun simply fighting a lost cause? Heeseung was sweet, handsome, the perfect gentleman.

But… he wasn't Yeonjun.

***

Taehyun entered his apartment, trying not to make too much noise in case Beomgyu had decided to have an early night. It turns out, his best friend was still awake, scrolling through his phone as the television quietly played in the background.

"Hey, hyung," Taehyun whispered, trying not to disturb the peace in the room.

Beomgyu looked up and smiled from where he was sat on the couch. He lifted his arms out, gesturing for Taehyun to join him. "You're earlier than expected. How was your date?"

Taehyun cuddled into his best friend's arms, turning his attention to the TV. "I told you it wasn't a date," he repeated, huffing. "And it was fine."

Beomgyu angled his head down to look at Taehyun, who had rested his head on the elder's chest as he began to watch the television. "Just fine?"

"Yeah," Taehyun replied, eyes never leaving the screen. "It was fine. Heeseung's a really nice guy."

"But?" Beomgyu prompted, grabbing Taehyun's chin between his fingers and forcing him to look away from the TV.

Taehyun let out a deep sigh. "But," Taehyun paused for a moment as he gathered the courage to say his next thing. "Hyung, do you think I should ask out Yeonjun-hyung?"

Beomgyu sat up in surprise, detaching himself from Taehyun so he could look at the younger properly. "Sorry, Taehyunnie, could you repeat that?"

Taehyun closed his eyes for a moment. He'd been thinking about it in the taxi home. It was clear that there was something between him and Yeonjun. Everyone had apparently noticed, and Taehyun was tired of trying to deny his newfound feelings any longer. He'd wondered how Yeonjun had managed to keep all his feelings hidden all this time, it hadn't been long yet already Taehyun felt like he was drowning in his emotions for the elder. "Should I ask Yeonjun-hyung on a date?" Taehyun repeated, voice quiet and unsure as he opened his eyes and looked at his best friend.

Beomgyu stared back as he took in the younger's words. "Do you want to?"

Taehyun thought for a moment, then gave a shy nod. "I think so, yeah," he replied, voice barely above a whisper. And Taehyun certainly wasn't expecting Beomgyu's reaction, but the way his best friend started squealing had Taehyun widening his eyes as he tried to shush the elder. "Shh, hyung, it's late, the neighbours will complain if you're too noisy."

Beomgyu collapsed back on the couch, pulling Taehyun into his arms. "Who cares about the neighbours, Taehyunnie. You're going to ask out Yeonjun, then you're going to become boyfriends, get married, and-"

"Woah, woah, woah, hyung," Taehyun spluttered. "Calm down, it might not even work out." He tried wriggling out of Beomgyu's arms, but the latter wasn't letting him go.

"What changed your mind anyway? Was the date with Heeseung really that bad?" Beomgyu asked, curiosity prevalent in his tone.

Taehyun sighed. "Heeseung's really sweet, he really is. It's just, he told me that he thought something was going on between me and Yeonjun-hyung. Apparently we have chemistry," he trailed off.

"Well, duh."

Taehyun gave his best friend a blank stare. "Yeah. Anyway, I just thought that maybe it's pointless me fighting these newfound feelings for Yeonjun. I'm out with Heeseung, but all I can think about is Yeonjun," he admitted shyly.

Beomgyu squealed. "Aww, Taehyunnie's getting shy." He jokingly pinched the younger's cheeks, who swatted his hand away in retaliation. "Also, it's not exactly 'newfound feelings'. You always thought Yeonjun was cute."

"I regret ever telling you that," Taehyun huffed, but his voice was light.

"What was it again? 'Oh hyung, there's this guy, Yeonjun, at work, he's really really cute and handsome, but god he's such an ass'," Beomgyu laughed.

"Hyung, shut up." Taehyun shoved his friend lightly. "I don't even sound like that."

Beomgyu simply gave him a large smile in return, excited at the prospect of his two friends finally admitting their feelings towards one another. And Taehyun couldn't help himself as he smiled back, Beomgyu's grin was contagious, after all.

It's about time you finally opened your big, dumb eyes and asked out Yeonjun.

"Hyung," Taehyun whined. Beomgyu just laughed and squealed as he wrestled Taehyun into a large hug.

***

It was actually a week and a half that passed before Taehyun saw Yeonjun again. The latter had caught a really bad stomach bug, which meant he hadn't been in work at all. Beomgyu was very annoyed at the elder for passing on his sickness to his own boyfriend, as Soobin had unfortunately also caught whatever it was Yeonjun had, with them being roommates and all. It meant that Beomgyu had been deprived of his boyfriend all week while Soobin recovered, resulting in a very angry Beomgyu. Taehyun couldn't help but find the whole situation a little amusing.

it was currently Monday, and Yeonjun was finally coming back to work today. The elder had texted him on Saturday night to say that he felt loads better and that he would see him at the office.

Taehyun was admittedly a little nervous. He decided that today was going to be the day he'd ask out Yeonjun. He'd actually really missed his company in the office last week, as Yeonjun rarely got sick and hadn't taken off more than two days since the two had started working together. It was strange, because Yeonjun's desk was the only one close to his, and he'd felt a little lonely with not many people to talk to.

Taehyun still hadn't spoken properly with Heeseung since their 'date', but judging by the occasional thought that Taehyun would hear from the elder, there seemed to be a mutual understanding that it was probably best if the two stayed friends for now.

Taehyun really didn't want to lead anyone on, but Heeseung's thoughts had been right the other night. If Taehyun was choosing between Heeseung and Yeonjun, then he'd choose Yeonjun. He started to think that perhaps he's always liked the elder, he was just too dumb to realise it before.

Taehyun was pulled out of his thoughts when Yeonjun strolled into the office, all smiles and radiating a cockiness as he took a seat at his desk.

What a night that was.

Taehyun stared at Yeonjun in confusion. What on earth was he talking about? And why the hell did he look so damn pleased with himself?

"Hey, Yeonjun," Wooyoung, one of their co-workers and a close friend of Yeonjun’s, shouted from across the office. "What the fuck's got you grinning like a cheshire cat, man?" Ah, so Taehyun wasn't the only one to notice Yeonjun's good mood.

Yeonjun smirked. "Wouldn't you like to know," he said, turning to his computer and waving off any of Wooyoung's attempts to try and get an answer out of him.

Me and Chaewon had sex last night, Wooyoung. That's what.

Taehyun felt his heart drop. What? Yeonjun... Yeonjun had sex with Chaewon. That means they must be getting serious. Taehyun had known Yeonjun to have a few flings here and there, but this was with someone who he was actually dating. In fact, Taehyun had never known Yeonjun to date anyone in the time he'd known him. He didn't like the feelings he felt. He was jealous, he was upset, he was... a little bit heartbroken.

"You alright there, Taehyunnie?" Yeonjun laughed. When Taehyun turned to look at him, the elder's brows furrowed in worry, features taking on a seriousness. "Are you okay? You're not feeling sick now, are you?"

Taehyun shook his head, trying to force a smile onto his face. "I'm fine, hyung." He couldn't deal with this, he couldn't handle Yeonjun being this kind and attentive person to Taehyun, not when he'd moved on with Chaewon. And what right did Taehyun have to be upset? He'd pushed Yeonjun into asking her out, for gods sake. He'd even agreed to a date with Heeseung, in front of Yeonjun, when he knew about the elder's feelings for him, what kind of person does that? God, he was such a hypocrite.

He turned to his computer as he slipped on his headphones and blinked back the tears that threatened to fall. He was determined to focus on work, and try to forget all about Choi Yeonjun.

He completely missed the worried glances Yeonjun would throw his way. He missed the disappointed expression on the elder's face when Taehyun refused their walk home together, insisting that he had to work overtime because he had too much to do.

He didn't miss the elder's thoughts as he left though, thoughts that only added to his already confused brain.

I love you.

Taehyun's breath hitched. Why would Yeonjun think those things but still sleep with Chaewon? Still, he couldn't deny the slight warmth and comfort the elder's thoughts brought him, slowly mending his broken heart.

Chapter 4: party

Taehyun sighed as he wandered over to the sink, ready to pour away the cup of coffee he'd just made. Someone must have had the last of the sugar, and Taehyun didn't think he could face drinking something so bitter. He just wish he'd checked the cupboards before he'd made himself the drink.

"Woah, that looks like a perfectly good cup of coffee you're about to throw away."

Taehyun startled at the sound of the new voice entering the office break room. It was Heeseung. He gave the elder a polite smile, quickly setting the coffee aside as he turned to leave and save himself from what was no doubt going to be an awkward situation. He hadn't spoken to Heeseung all that much recently, and despite having this mind reading ability, it still only allowed him to hear some things, so he wasn't so sure what Heeseung was feeling at the moment. Their 'date' hadn't exactly been the most successful, after all.

"Please, don't feel like you have to leave, Taehyun," Heeseung spoke up softly.

Taehyun paused from where his hand was on the door, turning back round to face Heeseung. "Sorry," he began, shuffling around awkardly. "It's just I didn't know if you'd want to talk to me. I mean, we haven't spoken since that night," he trailed off, biting his lip.

Heeseung sighed. "And like I said that night, I'm okay." He leaned back against the counter as he crossed his arms and observed Taehyun. "Are you okay though? I've seen you round the office the past week and you're looking a little, sad, I suppose."

Taehyun shrugged. "I'm fine. It's just been a stressful week with work and that."

Heeseung furrowed his brows. "Are you sure? It's not got anything to do with Yeonjun, has it?" Taehyun's head shot up. Heeseung hadn't developed a special ability to read minds too, had he? "You two haven't really been speaking that much, I noticed that you don't really leave work together anymore either."

Taehyun sighed. "It's fine, honestly. We've both been busy, that's all. I promise it's nothing serious," he replied.

"Okay, well that's good to hear," Heeseung smiled. "You can talk to me though, I know things have been a little awkward since that night, but I think we could be good friends, if nothing else."

Taehyun found himself smiling back in reply. "Thanks, hyung. I'd really like that," he said.

"Great," Heeseung chuckled as he began moving around the small kitchen, preparing to make himself his own cup of coffee.

"You can have mine if you want," Taehyun interrupted, gesturing to his untouched coffee still on the side. "We ran out of sugar, and I don't think I'm brave enough to drink something so bitter," he laughed, then inwardly cringed about how much of a baby he sounded.

That's cute.

Taehyun blushed as Heeseung took the coffee. He nodded to Taehyun and smiled, giving a small thanks. "I guess I better head back to work," he muttered, moving past Taehyun.

"Hey, hyung?" Taehyun said, stopping Heeseung in his tracks.

"Mmm?" Heeseung replied, turning round and giving Taehyun a charming smile.

"It's just, it's my friend Soobin-hyung's birthday this weekend, and we're having a small party at my apartment," he trailed off awkwardly. Heeseung raised a questioning brow before Taehyun continued. "Would you like to come? As a friend, of course. Like you said, it would be great to hang out and put whatever awkwardness there is behind us," he smiled.

Heeseung chuckled. "Of course, I'd love to." He smiled politely before giving Taehyun a farewell nod as he headed back to his desk. "See you there."

Taehyun smiled at Heeseung's retreating figure. With everything weird that had happened in his life recently because of this new power, at least he got to make a friend.

***

"Taehyun," Beomgyu yelled, marching over to where the younger was putting up balloons. "Where are the blue balloons? You know that blue is Soobin's favorite color."

Taehyun rolled his eyes. "Relax, hyung. I don't think Soobin-hyung's gonna care about what color balloons he has," he retorted.

Beomgyu tutted. "It doesn't matter if he cares or not, I care, okay? It needs to be perfect." He turned his attention to Huening Kai who was walking out of the bathroom. "And you, I hope you're not taking breaks."

Huening Kai held his hands up in surrender. "I just needed to pee, I swear."

Taehyun bit back laugh, about to pull Beomgyu away and save Huening Kai from their hyung, when there was a knock at the door. That was strange, the party didn't start for another few hours.

Beomgyu whined as he grabbed Huening Kai by the wrist. "Taehyun, can you get that? I don't have time for any distractions, we've got just under three hours to prepare the most perfect party for my most perfect boyfriend," he announced.

Taehyun chuckled. "Sure, hyung, try not to stress so much," he laughed, but he had already lost Beomgyu's attention as the elder dragged Huening Kai into the kitchen.

'Help me,' Huening Kai mouthed, extending his hand out dramatically to his friend. Taehyun couldn't help but laugh.

He was still giggling as he opened the door, smile quickly vanishing from his face, expression morphing into surprise when he saw who it was.

"Hey, Taehyunnie."

Taehyun's eyes widened as he saw Yeonjun stood there, a hesitant smile on his face.

Taehyun had been doing his best to avoid the elder ever since he found out about him and Chaewon. Yeonjun had tried to engage in conversation at work, had texted him a few times, but Taehyun had been quite short with his responses. Part of him felt bad, Yeonjun hadn't actually done anything wrong. But the thought of him and Chaewon together, it hurt Taehyun more than he'd like to admit, more than he’d expected it would.

He blinked away his surprise and forced a smile on his face as he took in Yeonjun's appearance, he was all dressed for the party. It didn't help he looked so good. His hair was pushed back off his forehead with a few strands falling, and he was sporting a loose vest and a pair of fitted jeans. He looked really really hot, and Taehyun couldn't help the pink that rose to his cheeks. God, he wished Yeonjun didn't have this affect on him. Couldn't he go back to the time when the elder was his admittedly cute, but extremely annoying friend.

"Hyung," Taehyun began, tearing his eyes away from how good Yeonjun looked. "You're early, the party doesn't start for a few hours," he commented.

Yeonjun nodded. "Yeah, Beomgyu wanted me to come and help out before."

"Of course he did." He stepped back to let Yeonjun in, as the elder walked past him and entered the apartment.

Beomgyu walked out of the kitchen at that moment, eyes widening as he looked between Yeonjun and Taehyun.

"Uhh, hyung, you're here finally," Beomgyu said, trying to ignore the annoyed look Taehyun was throwing his way.

"Hey, Soobin would kill me if he found out that you asked me for help and I said no," Yeonjun laughed. He slung his hands in the pockets of his jeans so casually, and god he looked cool, Taehyun thought. "Hence why I'm here. What would you like me to do?"

"If you could help bring the snacks out, and then maybe help Taehyun blow up a few more balloons, that would be really great." Beomgyu ignored the pointed stare Taehyun threw his way as he continued. "We'll all have to start getting ready soon," he gesturing to him, Taehyun and Huening Kai. "So any last minute tidying would also be great."

Yeonjun nodded. "Sure." He began walking towards the kitchen. "Don't know what you need my help for though, the place looks great already," he complimented, looking around the apartment.

As soon as he was far away enough to hear anything, Beomgyu rushed over to Taehyun. "I'm really sorry, Taehyunnie."

"What the hell, hyung? You know how awkward it is between us at the moment," Taehyun huffed, looking at the elder for some explanation.

"I'm sorry, it's just," Beomgyu trailed off. "This party, it's important."

I just really want this party to be perfect for Soobin.

Taehyun sighed as he saw the worried expression on his best friend's face. "It's fine, hyung." He knew Beomgyu wouldn't have called Yeonjun if he wasn't feeling so stressed. Beomgyu loved Soobin a lot and he wanted everything to be perfect for his boyfriend, of course he was going to stress about throwing him the most perfect birthday party.

"You sure?" Beomgyu asked, biting his lip in hesitancy.

Taehyun nodded. "I know you just want Soobin to have a good birthday." He gestured to Yeonjun who was busy laughing with Huening Kai in the kitchen. "Besides, I can't avoid him forever."

Taehyun had been making so many excuses at work recently, it was either that he was too busy, or that he had promised to meet his mom for lunch. These excuses meant that he hadn't properly spoken to Yeonjun for a couple of weeks.

Beomgyu gave him a sympathetic smile and a quick hug, before he heard the laughter from the kitchen grow louder and his face once again became serious. He marched over to Yeonjun and Huening Kai, leaving Taehyun to watch his best friend tell the other two off. "Honestly, hyung, how long does it take to bring in the snacks? Huening Kai, stop distracting him!"

Yeonjun threw his hands up in surrender as he grabbed a tray of drinks and headed into the living area. Taehyun blushed and quickly busied himself with the balloons, back turned to the elder.

"Hey, Taehyun-".

Taehyun turned round, surprised at how close Yeonjun's voice sounded. Turns out, Yeonjun was stood right behind him, and Taehyun had just knocked the drinks all over Yeonjun's vest.

"Oh my god, hyung, I'm so sorry," Taehyun exclaimed, dropping the balloons and waving his hands around uselessly.

Yeonjun chuckled, much to Taehyun's confusion. Yeonjun was serious when it came to his clothes, he'd practically chased Huening Kai down the street when the younger had accidentally spilled his drink on him once. "It's alright, it should wash out. You must have a spare shirt I can borrow anyway, right?" He looked Taehyun up and down. "I'm sure I can squeeze into something your size," he teased, acknowledging the younger's petite and lithe figure.

"Shut up, hyung, I'm not even that small," Taehyun blushed, but he couldn't help the smile on his face. He genuinely thought the elder was going to yell at him, or chase him out of the apartment.

He walked over to his bedroom, Yeonjun in tow, opening his closet and rifling through some tops, holding up a few options for Yeonjun that he was sure would comfortably fit the elder. "Any of these?"

Yeonjun glanced at them, settling on a loose vest, similar to what he'd already been wearing. He had no shame as he proceeded to strip out of his juice-stained top, body on full display. Taehyun blushed, but he couldn't help but stare at Yeonjun's chest and arms. Since when had he gotten so... hot? Had Yeonjun been working out?

"Hey, Taehyun, my eyes are up here."

Taehyun's eyes shot up to meet Yeonjun's, but the elder had a soft and teasing smile on his face as he stared at Taehyun fondly.

You're so cute.

Taehyun coughed awkwardly. "Right. Okay. I guess I'll see you back out there then." Taehyun left his bedroom, purposely ignoring Yeonjun's smirk as the elder pulled the clean vest over his head.

He's way too much fun to tease.

Taehyun pretended he never heard that.

***

"Happy birthday!"

A series of voices rang through the apartment as soon as Soobin stepped in, Beomgyu smiling brightly up at him as he guided his boyfriend into the apartment. Soobin blushed, smiling shyly at all the attention he was receiving.

He said his thanks and greeted everyone in attendance, eventually finding his way back to Beomgyu as the room began to disperse and engage in their own conversations. The younger looped his arms around his boyfriend's neck and pulled him in for a kiss. "Happy birthday, hyung," he whispered.

Soobin smiled as he wrapped his arms around Beomgyu's waist, resting his forehead against the youngers. "You're amazing you know that, baby?"

Taehyun watched the scene in front of him fondly. It was nice, watching Beomgyu and Soobin, two of his closest friends, just being... in love.

I love you so much, I just wish I could be better for you.

Taehyun's face changed from fond to confused so fast it was almost comical. Why was Beomgyu thinking like that? His best friend was the most amazing person he knew, and it was clear Soobin agreed.

I wish I could be perfect. You deserve perfect.

Taehyun felt his heart break a little. There's no denying that Beomgyu was a confident guy, but Taehyun could tell that when it came to Soobin, he almost had these unrealistic expectations of himself.

It's definitely something to bring up with Beomgyu, Taehyun thought, but not tonight, they both deserve to enjoy the party first.

"Hey, Taehyunnie." Taehyun glanced up at the sound of Huening Kai, who was running over to his friend. "There's someone here to see you. He says his name's Heeseung."

"Heeseung? He came?"

"Yeah." Huening Kai smiled as he nudged Taehyun teasingly. "So he's the guy you went out with the other week? First Yeonjun, now Heeseung, how are you attracting all these hot men?"

Taehyun blushed. "Stop it, Kai. Someone might hear you." But he could tell the younger meant no harm. His cheeks were a little rosy, and he couldn't stop giggling. Yeah, Huening Kai was drunk. Taehyun quickly filled up a glass of water and handed it to the younger. "Drink this." He observed his friend for a moment. "And what do you mean attracting Yeonjun? How do you know about his feelings for me?"

Huening Kai giggled, taking a sip of the water. "I have eyes, Taehyunnie. Hyung is so obvious."

Taehyun sighed. Was he really that blind? It seemed like everyone had known about Yeonjun's feelings for ages, except Taehyun. He turned to leave, to go find Yeonjun or Heeseung, he wasn't so sure. "No more alcohol, okay?" He gave Huening Kai a serious expression as he left, to which the younger nodded with a mischevious smile playing on his lips.

Sorry Taehyunnie, but I noticed you've got some apple soju in the refrigerator.

Taehyun sighed. Yep, Huening Kai was getting drunk tonight.

It turned out to be Heeseung who he ended up finding, as the elder was sat on the couch, glancing around the room as he watched the party guests enjoy themselves.

"Hey, hyung," Taehyun smiled politely, sitting next to Heeseung. "I'm glad that you came."

Heeseung returned Taehyun's smile with one of his own. "Thanks for inviting me." He took a look round at the apartment. "It's a nice place you got here. It's just you and your roommate, right?"

Taehyun hummed. "Yeah, just me and my best friend, Beomgyu. Although Beomgyu's boyfriend, Soobin, whose party it is tonight, stays over a lot that sometimes it's like he lives here too," he joked.

"That sounds great, you get on with Soobin well, don't you?" Heeseung asked curiously.

Taehyun nodded. "Of course. Honestly, Soobin-hyung's one of my closest friends, I like having him around. And he makes Beomgyu happy, so I'm happy too," Taehyun smiled.

Heesung returned it. He glanced around the apartment again. "You know I haven't been to a party in so long," he commented, keeping the conversation going.

"Really? Beomgyu likes to throw one every time one of us has something to celebrate," Taehyun replied.

"That sounds nice, you definitely sound like you've got a better social life than me," Heeseung chuckled, then rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.

God, I must sound so boring.

Taehyun giggled. "Trust me, if it wasn't for Beomgyu, I'd probably be sat at home watching TV most nights." Heeseung smiled in return. "How about I get you a drink?" Taehyun asked, trying to be a good host.

"No need."

Taehyun whipped his head around at the sound of the new voice behind him. There stood Yeonjun with two drinks in his hands. He looked between the two on the couch and his eyes narrowed.

"I never expected to see you here, Heeseung. Who knew you liked to party," he commented, a slight edge to his voice.

Heeseung nodded, keeping his cool. "Taehyun invited me," he replied, choosing to ignore Yeonjun's tone. Taehyun was surprised at Heeseung's confidence, he was usually such a polite and soft spoken guy, but he was firm when speaking to Yeonjun.

Yeonjun smiled, or was it a grimace? Taehyun couldn't tell. "That sounds great." He handed out one of the drinks to Heeseung. "Here, a drink might help you relax a little more."

"No thanks," Heeseung replied, standing up. "I'm actually going to go and look for something to eat first. Don't want to drink on an empty stomach, after all." He gave Yeonjun a smile, though it didn't quite reach his eyes, before turning to Taehyun, voice turning much softer again. "I'll see you in a bit, yeah Taehyun?"

Taehyun nodded from where he'd shrunk back into the couch, feeling awkward at the hostility between the two men in front of him. "Sure," he replied.

Heeseung nodded his head in farewell as made his way over to the kitchen, leaving Taehyun and Yeonjun alone.

Don't know what everyone sees in him, he's a bit of an asshole if you ask me.

Yeonjun sighed as he sat down in the spot that Heeseung just vacated, right next to Taehyun. He offered the spare drink to the younger, which he accepted with a small 'thanks.'

It was quiet between two for a moment, before Yeonjun decided to break the silence. "So are you gonna tell me why you've been avoiding me?"

Taehyun shuffled around in his seat awkwardly. "I haven't."

Yeonjun rolled his eyes at the blatant lie as he looked at Taehyun. "Yeah, you have. In fact, I think this is the first proper conversation I've had with you in over a week."

Did I do something to upset you?

Taehyun sighed. "Look, it's nothing personal, hyung. I've just had a lot on my mind recently," he reassured, hoping he was convincing.

Yeonjun scoffed. "What, like Heeseung? I can't believe you invited him tonight."

Taehyun grew annoyed at Yeonjun's tone. "He's a friend, okay? Nothing more." He collapsed further back into the couch. "Besides, I'm sure you brought you're own date. Where is Chaewon-noona?"

"We broke up."

Taehyun sat up, the drink in his hand almost spilling all over him. "What? Why? You, but- I thought you slept with her?"

Yeonjun's eyes widened at Taehyun's bluntness, expression confused. "Who the hell told you that?" Then he sighed heavily. "It was Soobin, wasn't it? The little shit," he muttered.

"Uh, sure," Taehyun replied. What could he say? 'No hyung, I just happened to read your mind.' Yeah, no. "Soobin told me."

Yeonjun took a large gulp of his drink. "Well," he began. "If you must know, she was looking for something serious." He looked at Taehyun. "But I don't think I want that with her, and I don't want to lead her on, so I ended it."

She's not you, Taehyun.

"I, um, hyung I," Taehyun stuttered, eventually giving up on trying to find the right thing to say. Yeonjun had no idea the affect his thoughts had on the younger. "I'm really sorry." He gave the elder a small smile. "You're okay though, right?"

Yeonjun returned his smile. "Yeah. I'm okay."

Taehyun nodded. "Good." He sighed as he sat up a bit straighter. "Sorry if I've been avoiding you, by the way."

"Are you gonna tell me why you were?"

Taehyun hummed. "It's like I said, I've just had some stuff on my mind. But I'm feeling better now, I think," he reassured.

Yeonjun chucked as he observed the younger, staring at him fondly. "You're a hard book to read sometimes, you know that Taehyunnie?"

Taehyun rolled his eyes, but he couldn't stop the smile on his face. "You wouldn't want me any other way," he joked, taking a sip of his drink and licking his lips at the sweet taste it left behind.

No, I really wouldn't.

***

The party continued into the night. Taehyun felt a lot better since his chat with Yeonjun. They'd talked for a little while longer on the couch, and it wasn't long before the elder quickly reverted back to his favorite hobby of annoying and teasing Taehyun. Not that the younger was complaining, he had missed Yeonjun's company, after all.

He was currently dancing and laughing with his group of friends. Beomgyu, Huening Kai, Soobin, and Yeonjun. They were all enjoying the night, oblivious to everything around them. It was the happiest Taehyun had felt all week.

That was when the phone call came.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

"Sorry, guys, it's my mom," Taehyun explained. "Let me just go answer it real quick."

He walked into the bathroom, the quietest room of the house, where he could shut out the party for a moment.

"Hey, mom, everything okay?"

"Taehyun. There's something I need to tell you, but try not to worry, darling. I'm only telling you because I know you'd want to know."

Taehyun was starting to get worried now at his mother's slightly panicked tone. "What's happened? Is it grandpa?"

"Yes, darling. He's been admitted to hospital. He felt sick earlier, and because of his weak immune system, the doctors thought it would be best to keep him in for a couple of days."

Taehyun felt his body stiffen. The happiness that he'd just been feeling being overtaken by worry and upset. "He'll be okay though, won't he, mom?"

"He's quite sick, darling. But they're doing everything they can."

Taehyun could hear the wetness in his mom's voice, how she was clearly trying to hold back her tears. "Okay, okay, I'll come and meet you. You're at the hospital, right?"

"It's fine, Taehyun. They're not letting anyone see him until he feels a bit better, anyway."

"Okay, I'll come home then, are you at home? Is dad with you?"

"He is, so please don't worry. I promise to call you with any updates."

"Okay, okay, I'll come and see you tomorrow," Taehyun promised. He tried fighting his own tears that threatened to fall. "I love you, mom."

"I love you too, darling."

They ended the call. Taehyun was still processing the news about his grandfather. How could he go out there and have a good time when he knew his sick grandfather was in a hospital, or when his mother was sat at home crying? He also didn't want to ruin the mood of the party for his friends. Maybe he could make up an excuse and escape to his bedroom for the rest of the night where he could cry and worry without anyone noticing.

He plastered a fake smile on his face as he left the bathroom, heading over to where he'd left his friends not even ten minutes ago. He was ready to say that he felt tired and he was ready to call it a night, no questions asked. But they were his closest friends, and they could immediately tell the smile he was wearing was fake.

"Taehyunnie," Beomgyu spoke softly. "What's happened?"

Taehyun's smile broke at the sight of his friends' worried faces. Tears welled up in his eyes before they started falling. "I'm fine," he tried to argue, feeling bad for ruining the party. He couldn't even make it to his bedroom.

He felt arms wrap around him, and he instinctively buried his face into the warm and grounding chest. "It's okay, Taehyun," Yeonjun soothed.

"Yeonjun-hyung," he cried as his tears fell, trying to push himself further into the elder's chest to chase all the comfort he could. Yeonjun simply continued to hold him.

"Shh, it's okay, I've got you," Yeonjun whispered, resting his cheek against Taehyun's hair. "I've got you, Taehyunnie."

I'm not going anywhere.

"Hey, Taehyun, do you want me to stop the party?" Beomgyu asked gently, rubbing soothing circles on Taehyun's back with his hand.

Taehyun quickly pulled back from Yeonjun to look at his best friend. "No, no hyung, please don't do that. I'm okay, really." He tried to force a smile, though his wet cheeks showed that it was anything but genuine. "You've worked so hard putting this party together, and it's Soobin's birthday, after all."

Soobin gave Taehyun a warm smile. "I don't mind, Taehyun. We're all more concerned about you right now."

Beomgyu nodded, showing Taehyun that he agreed with his boyfriend. Whatever had got Taehyun into this distressed state so quickly was obviously important, they'd all stop the party if it would help him feel better.

You're more important than any party.

Taehyun's eyes, still wet with tears, softened at Beomgyu's thoughts. He really didn't deserve his friends. He shook his head once more. "No, please, you guys enjoy. Everyone is still having fun anyway," he commented, gesturing to the faces of the happy partygoers around them. "I'm probably just going to escape to my bedroom for a bit."

Yeonjun stepped in. "If you want to go somewhere more quiet Taehyun, you can always stay at my place," he offered.

"Are you sure?" Taehyun asked, to which Yeonjun responded with a smile and a nod. "I suppose so then, but only if you're sure, you'd be missing the rest of the party.

Yeonjun nodded. "It's okay, I'm pretty tired anyway," he added.

The two exchanged their goodbyes with their friends. Beomgyu made Taehyun promise that they would talk tomorrow as the younger gave his best friend a hug.

"Love you, hyung," Taehyun said to Beomgyu.

Beomgyu squeezed him back tightly. "Love you too, Taehyunnie."

Yeonjun guided Taehyun through the apartment to the front door, a gentle hand on his back. When they were about to leave, Heeseung caught up with them. "Hey, Taehyun, you okay?"

Taehyun nodded and smiled, despite his tear-stained cheeks. "I'm okay, hyung. Please, enjoy the rest of the party," he reassured.

Heeseung looked hesitant, but with a glance at Yeonjun who gave him a nod and look that said, 'don't worry, I promise I'll take care of him', he sighed, smiling sadly at them both before leaving them to it.

"Ready to go?" Yeonjun asked him.

Taehyun nodded. "Yeah, let's go."

***

Taehyun shivered as him and Yeonjun walked the short distance to the elder's apartment. December meant that the cold weather was in full swing, but at least the city was also surrounded by an array of pretty Christmas lights, which improved Taehyun's sad mood somewhat. He pulled his large, puffer jacket further around him to try and warm up, which Yeonjun must have noticed, because the elder was immediately wrapping his arm around Taehyun's waist to help share some of his body heat.

Taehyun blushed slightly at the action, giving the elder a shy smile. He was sure he probably still looked like an absolute mess, and he could feel his makeup smudged down his face from all the crying he'd done earlier.

Almost there, Taehyunnie.

I got you.

The two walked the journey in a comfortable silence, eventually arriving at Yeonjun and Soobin's shared apartment.

As soon as Taehyun stepped inside, he was hit with a warmth that had his body relaxing.

"Would you like something to drink? Tea? Hot chocolate? Or I can make some warm milk for you?" Yeonjun offered, turning on the lights and making his way over to the kitchen.

Taehyun shook his head. "I'm okay, thanks." He followed Yeonjun into the kitchen. "Sorry I made you leave the party early, hyung. You really didn't have to."

"It's fine, like I said, I was feeling pretty tired," he reassured, pouring himself a glass of water.

I wouldn't have been able to enjoy myself knowing you were upset.

Taehyun tried to fight his smile, but with Yeonjun's thoughts and his gentle expression as he gazed at Taehyun, it was difficult not to.

"What happened tonight, Taehyunnie?" Yeonjun eventually asked, his tone soft. "Is it something to do with your grandpa?"

Taehyun's smile fell at the mention of his grandfather. All the worried and upset emotions he’d felt earlier suddenly came flooding back. He nodded as tears resurfaced in his eyes. Yeonjun was pulling him into his arms in an instant as he tried to calm the younger down. "He's in hospital, he, he's really sick, hyung," he sobbed, clinging on to Yeonjun tightly. "I don't know how much more time we all have with him."

Yeonjun shushed him. "Shh, it's okay. I've got you." He stroked Taehyun's hair. "Whatever happens, I'm here. You know that, right?".

You have no idea how much you mean to me.

Taehyun buried his face further into the elder's chest. The two simply standing there in the kitchen for a few minutes until Taehyun's cries had calmed down.

"How about you go and take a shower? I can lend you some clothes to wear," Yeonjun eventually spoke, breaking the silence.

Taehyun nodded as he pulled back from the elder, exhaustion completely overtaking his body as the events from the night caught up to him. "Okay," he agreed.

The shower did make him feel considerably better. Taehyun could have spent longer under there, but he would have felt too guilty for using all of the hot water. He quickly dressed in the clothes that Yeonjun had given him. The hoodie was far too big for his narrow frame, as it was clear it was already meant to be oversized on Yeonjun, and the pants were a little long. But Taehyun didn't really care. At least his body was clean, even if his brain was a mess.

He stepped out of the bathroom and padded around the living room, but he couldn't see Yeonjun anywhere.

"Hyung," Taehyun called out. "Where are you?" He glanced over into the kitchen, but still couldn't see the elder.

"In here."

Taehyun wandered closer to the voice, entering the bedroom and seeing Yeonjun finishing up from where he had been changing the sheets. He turned to Taehyun when he heard him enter, a fond smile overtaking his face when he saw the younger looking adorable in his clothes. "I thought I'd make up my bed for you, I'm going to go and sleep in Soobin's room, he won't mind."

Taehyun stared at Yeonjun. He had always known the elder was a kind and caring person, but he really had been blind to just how nice he was.

"It's okay, hyung, I would have been happy with the couch," Taehyun insisted.

Yeonjun chuckled. "And why sleep there when you've got a perfectly comfy bed here?"

Taehyun smiled as he stared at Yeonjun. "I really don't deserve you, you know?" Taehyun whispered, feeling his eyes start to shine with tears. But this time they weren't from sadness over his grandfather, they were from how warm and loved he felt because of how kind Yeonjun was.

"Of course you do," Yeonjun laughed, walking over to Taehyun as he wiped away a stray tear that had fell on his cheek.

Loving you is so easy for me.

Taehyun smiled up at the elder, whose hand was still on his cheek. He brought up his own hand and gently placed it on top of Yeonjun's.

I really love you. More than you’ll ever know.

And that thought was the final push Taehyun needed to lift himself up on his tiptoes and place his mouth against Yeonjun's in a soft kiss. The elder gasped slightly in surprise, but was quick to reciprocate as he began to gently move his mouth against the younger's lips. His hands dropped to Taehyun's waist, pulling him closer, whilst Taehyun's arms looped around Yeonjun's neck, pulling him further downwards. There mouths continued to move together as they explored each other in this intimate way for the first time.

When Taehyun pulled back, he looked up at Yeonjun to see his eyes wide and a surprised expression on his face. "I'm sorry," he said, just in case he'd interpreted everything wrong and maybe the elder in fact did not want to kiss him.

Yeonjun's surprised face quickly morphed itself into a fond smile as he gazed down at Taehyun. "Don't be, I liked it."

I love you. I’d kiss you all day if I could.

"Me too," Taehyun replied shyly. A part of him didn't know if he was answering Yeonjun or Yeonjun's thoughts, but he found he didn't really mind whatever one it was.

It had been a night of highs and lows, but stood with Yeonjun, Taehyun felt pretty happy in that moment.

Chapter 5: good mornings and bad afternoons

"Morning," Taehyun spoke softly, wandering into the kitchen where Yeonjun was stood. He gave the elder a shy smile as he sat down at the breakfast bar.

Yeonjun glanced up from where he'd been making coffee. His lips instantly returned the smile as soon as he saw the younger, still dressed in Yeonjun's hoodie and sweatpants and looking particularly warm and soft, or so the elder thought. "Morning, Taehyunnie." He passed one of the large cups to Taehyun. "I thought you might like a coffee. Don't worry, I added plenty of sugar," he chuckled, referring to the younger's dislike of bitter flavors.

Taehyun clasped his hands around the warm drink. "Thanks, hyung." He took a sip and hummed, Yeonjun sure knew how to make a good cup of coffee.

I could get used to this, waking up with you.

Taehyun blushed slightly, but couldn't stop the warm feeling spreading through his chest. "Thanks for last night, hyung. I really do appreciate it," he said, remembering how Yeonjun had left the party early just so he could make sure Taehyun was okay, a truly selfless act that Taehyun would be forever grateful for.

"And like I said then, I really didn't mind," Yeonjun replied easily as he smiled warmly at the younger.

The two drank their drinks in a comfortable silence, occasionally glancing at each other. They would both turn away and blush, before giggling at the other's embarrassment, every time they caught each other's eye. It felt nice, normal.

Ring. Ring. Ring.

The sound of his phone pulled Taehyun out of his thoughts as he glanced at the screen. Beomgyu.

"Sorry, hyung," Taehyun said to Yeonjun, an apologetic look on his face. "Beomgyu-hyung's calling, I should probably take this."

Yeonjun nodded as he gestured for Taehyun to accept the call.

"Hi, hyung," Taehyun spoke into the phone.

"Taehyunnie! How are you? Are you feeling okay?"

Taehyun smiled. His best friend was probably exhausted after throwing a party the night before, and probably didn't get to sleep until the early hours, but here he was awake in the morning just so he could check in with Taehyun. "I'm fine, hyung, really."

"Are you sure? You were really upset last night."

Taehyun's smile fell as he remembered the reason for his distress last night. He glanced up at Yeonjun and the elder gave him a gentle grin in return. Having Yeonjun here with him did alleviate some of the anxiety and stress that Taehyun could feel building up. He didn't know what power the elder had over him, but Yeonjun truly was one of the few people in the world who could help him calm his mind. "I really am okay, hyung. I'm probably going to head out and see my mom soon, but I'll be back home later, we can talk then," Taehyun said to Beomgyu through the phone.

"Okay, Taehyunnie. Promise me that you'll call me if you need me though. I hate the thought of you feeling sad all day."

Taehyun could hear the tiredness in Beomgyu's voice, so was quick to reassure his best friend. "Please don't worry, hyung. I promise I'll call you if I need to," Taehyun assured, exchanging goodbyes with Beomgyu so the elder could go back to bed and sleep away the exhaustion he was no doubt feeling from the night before.

Once the two best friends ended their call, Yeonjun and Taehyun were left in silence.

"I can come with you if you want?" Yeonjun eventually asked. "To your mom's, if you think it'll be hard to go alone, I can come."

Taehyun's heart swelled with a wave of affection for the man in front of him. What had Taehyun done in a past life to have someone like Yeonjun in his life, who cared about him so much. He shook his head as he smiled at Yeonjun. "I'll be okay, hyung. I promise."

Yeonjun nodded as he returned the smile, understanding that Taehyun probably needed a day alone with his parents where they could discuss his grandfather together.

They both finished their coffees in silence. It was probably one of the few awkward moments they'd ever shared together, where neither one knew what to say as they thought of the kiss they'd shared together the night before.

"I guess I should get going anyway," Taehyun said, trying to diffuse the awkwardness. "I'm just going to go and change back into my clothes real quick," he continued, standing up and heading back into the bedroom.

Yeonjun nodded. "Sure."

I wish you'd stay longer.

Taehyun sighed. Honestly, a big part of him really wanted to stay. Yeonjun made him happy and his company was starting to become a favorite of Taehyun's. He might even dare to admit that Yeonjun was overtaking Beomgyu as one of his favorite people to hang out with. But he couldn't stay, as much as he really wanted to. With everything going on with his grandfather, he knew he needed to go and see his family.

Once Taehyun had quickly dressed in his clothes from the night before, he made his way back out of the bedroom only to find Yeonjun hovering in the living room.

"So, you'll be okay, right?" Yeonjun asked, a hint of worry prevalent in his tone.

I hate seeing you sad.

Taehyun's eyes softened. "I'll be okay, hyung. I promise." He wandered over to Yeonjun, just staring at the elder for a moment, before pulling him into a hug. "Thank you for everything. It really means a lot to me," he smiled, pulling back to look up into the elder's eyes.

Yeonjun smiled back, eyes crinkling and looking oh so lovely as he stared at Taehyun. "You're welcome." His eyes then trailed to the younger's lips, a small chuckle escaping him as a blush formed on his cheeks. "You know, Taehyun, last night, what happened between us, I, um," he stuttered, nervousness overtaking him.

I really wish we could do it again.

Taehyun smiled at both Yeonjun's nervous words as well as his thoughts. Having a sudden rush of confidence, he stood on his tiptoes and angled his head slightly upwards to give the elder a soft kiss. It was a very small and quick kiss, but it still had them both blushing. "I'll see you later, hyung," he whispered, reluctantly pulling away.

Yeonjun nodded. "See you later, Taehynnie," he whispered back.

As Taehyun left the apartment, it took a lot of strength to not immediately turn back around and head straight back into the safety of Yeonjun's arms.

***

"Hi, mom," Taehyun said, stepping into the house and immediately wrapping his mother into a hug as soon as she'd opened the front door.

Her arms immediately returned the hug, as she pulled her son closer and held him tightly. "Hi, darling," she whispered, speaking to him ever so gently, much like she did when he was a child.

When they both pulled back, Taehyun saw his father heading over to them both, a kind smile on his face. "Hi, dad." It was then his father's turn to experience a hug from Taehyun, as the latter pulled him in tightly.

"How are you, son?" His father held his son tighter as he asked him.

"I'm okay," he muttered, pulling away. He looked at both of his parents for a long moment before addressing the elephant in the room. "So, how's grandpa?"

His mother sighed as she gave her son a sad smile. "He's still feeling quite sick, Taehyun." Her heart broke a little when she saw the panic fill his face. "But he's definitely a lot better than yesterday. The doctor rang me earlier and said that we can all go and see him sometime this week, but we should give him a few days to recover first."

Taehyun nodded, taking in his mother's words. "Okay. That's good." He thought for a moment. "Let me know when you're going and I'll try and take some time off work."

His mother smiled at him as his father put an arm around him. "He'll be okay, Taehyun," his father reassured, squeezing his shoulder in comfort. "He's strong, just like your mother," he said gesturing to the woman stood next to them.

Taehyun weakly chuckled as he nodded, appreciating his parents for trying to make him feel better. His mother rested her hand against his cheek. "How about I make you some tea? Warm you up from the cold weather outside. Have you had breakfast yet?"

"Not yet," Taehyun replied as his stomach started growling, thinking back to the one coffee he'd had at Yeonjun's. He was obviously too distracted this morning to think about food.

"Okay, I'll make you something to eat then," she smiled, heading into the kitchen.

"Come on, son," his father said, guiding him into the living room and onto the couch, where the TV was quietly playing some game show that none of them were really interested in. "You know how she likes to keep busy during times like this."

She really is a strong woman. I think that's why after all these years, I still love her so much.

Taehyun turned to look at his father and smiled. It was nice hearing his parents think loving thoughts about each other. Even after being married for so many years, Taehyun could sense the love between them. He hoped he'd get to share that with someone some day. He tried distracting his brain when an image of Yeonjun suddenly entered his mind.

It's really no wonder you turned out so well, with a mother like that.

Taehyun leaned his head against his father's shoulder as the TV continued to play in the background. Before he knew it, his father's thoughts were lulling him into a deep and peaceful slumber.

***

Yeonjun was sat on the couch absent-mindedly watching TV and scrolling through his phone when Soobin came home in the early evening. Upon his best friend's entrance, the eldest threw his phone to the side and looked over as Soobin collapsed next to him.

"Good night?" Yeonjun asked, a twinkle in his eye.

Soobin rolled his eyes as he chuckled. "You were there for most of the party, you know it was a good one," he retorted, kicking his feet up on the coffee table.

"Yeah," Yeonjun began. "But what I actually meant was… did Beomgyu treat you to the best birthday sex of your life, or what?"

Soobin punched his arm lightly. "A gentleman never tells." He turned his attention to the TV, avoiding any further teasing from his best friend.

"Which obviously translates to yes," Yeonjun chuckled under his breath, ignoring the half-hearted glare the younger threw his way.

"How's Taehyun, anyway?" Soobin eventually asked, changing the subject before Yeonjun could further probe him about his sex life.

Yeonjun relaxed further into the couch as he thought of the younger. "He was a little upset last night, but I think he felt better this morning after getting some sleep," he said.

"Poor Taehyunnie," Soobin said, his tone sad as he remembered the younger's distress just before he left the party. "What did you guys end up talking about?"

Yeonjun shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "Not much, he took a shower here, and then we went to bed." He then turned to Soobin with a slight mischievous smile playing on his lips and a twinkle in his eye. "Oh, but before that, he actually kissed me."

Soobin nodded. "That sounds nice." His eyes then comically widened as Yeonjun's words registered in his brain. "Wait, what?" He sat up straight as he looked at his best friend. "Taehyun kissed you?"

Yeonjun laughed at Soobin's reaction. "Try to not sound too surprised, bro. Anyone would be lucky to kiss me."

Soobin shook his head in disbelief. "Yeah, but we're not talking about anyone, are we, hyung? We're talking about Kang Taehyun, the guy you've been in love with for over a year."

Yeonjun laughed. "Well, that guy who I've been in love with is the very same guy who kissed me," he repeated, smile wide as he recalled last night's events.

"I still can't believe it," Soobin said. He had to admit though, his best friend looked the happiest he'd seen him in a long time.

"Technically he kissed me twice," Yeonjun revealed. "It happened just before he left this morning," he continued, grinning widely at Soobin.

"Wow, two kisses in less that 24 hours," Soobin said as he slouched back into the couch. "I do wonder though," he began, Yeonjun turning to look at him curiously. "What could it be that he sees in you?" He laughed at his own joke, only laughing harder when Yeonjun kicked his leg in retaliation.

Once their laughter subsided, they sat quietly for a moment, absentmindedly watching the television.

Yeonjun finally broke the silence. "You know, bro, I think this is a sign." Soobin looked at him with a confused expression, gesturing for him to continue. "Taehyun wouldn't have kissed me if he didn't like me, at least a little bit. Which is why I think I'm going to finally do it, I think it's time I confess my feelings for him."

Soobin's smile was bright. "About fucking time, hyung."

Yeonjun laughed, eyes crinkling. "Yeah, I've gotta agree with that."

***

In a different apartment a few streets away, Beomgyu and Taehyun were sat on their own couch engrossed in their own conversation.

"So is everything okay? With your mom and grandpa?" Beomgyu asked, looking at his best friend with concern.

Taehyun nodded, pulling his blanket further around himself as he cuddled further into his hoodie, trying to warm up from the bitter cold outside. "I think so. Mom didn't sound as upset as she had on the phone, and I'm going to go to the hospital at some point this week to visit grandpa," Taehyun explained.

Beomgyu nodded as he rubbed his best friend's knee comfortingly. "Well that all sounds pretty positive. You see, everything will work out, Taehyunnie."

"I hope so," Taehyun whispered. He then shifted around on the couch as he thought about how he should break his other news to Beomgyu. "Also, hyung," Taehyun started. "I may have some news about me and Yeonjun," he admitted shyly.

Beomgyu's eyes turned from soft to teasing as he noticed how shy his best friend had suddenly become. "Well now I'm curious. It must be something big if it's got you blushing this much," he laughed.

"Shut up, hyung," Taehyun whined. He took a deep breath as he revealed last night's events. "We kissed," he revealed, biting his lip to try and stop the smile from lighting up his features.

Beomgyu squealed at the revelation. Taehyun tried shushing his best friend, but he couldn't help laugh along with the elder. "Taehyunnie," Beomgyu began. "That's amazing! God, I can only imagine how happy Yeonjun is."

Taehyun snuggled further into the couch as he rested his head against Beomgyu's shoulder. "I actually wanted your opinion on something," he spoke up. He heard Beomgyu hum in return, gesturing for him to continue. "I was thinking of revealing my powers to Yeonjun-hyung," he admitted.

Beomgyu's eyes widened in surprise as he took in Taehyun's words. "Wow. Are you sure?" He shifted away from Taehyun slightly so he could see him better. "You really wanna tell Yeonjun-hyung that you can read minds?"

Taehyun nodded. "Yeonjun's thoughts have revealed a lot of personal things," he began, thinking about when he first discovered that Yeonjun was in love with him. "And I don't know, sometimes it just doesn't feel fair that I can hear what he's thinking, but he has no idea, you know what I mean?" It was true that Taehyun had been feeling guilty recently, hearing all of Yeonjun's love declarations while the elder himself had no idea. "And I do really trust him," he added, because it was true, he really did.

Beomgyu took a deep breath as he considered Taehyun's words. "Well, if you think it's the right decision, then I support you," he smiled, being the supportive best friend that he was.

Taehyun nodded. "Thanks, hyung." He relaxed into the couch, before he remembered what he had wanted to discuss with Beomgyu ever since the party. "By the way, hyung, is everything okay between you and Soobin-hyung?"

Beomgyu looked a him surprised, before his expression morphed into confusion, wondering why Taehyun would ask him such a thing. "What do you mean, Taehyunnie?"

Taehyun shrugged, almost like he didn't know how to bring it up. "Hyung, last night when you were with Soobin, I read your mind."

Beomgyu started laughing at that. "Don't tell me you had a look into my sexual thoughts about Soobin, Taehyunnie?"

"Ew, gross, no hyung that's not what I was referring to." Taehyun sighed once more as he looked directly at Beomgyu. "Look, hyung, from your thoughts, I kinda got the impression that sometimes you don't always feel like you're good enough for Soobin," he finished gently.

Beomgyu's smile fell as he looked away, staring into space as he didn't answer.

Maybe I'm not always good enough.

Taehyun's heart broke. "Hyung," he cried, pulling Beomgyu into a hug. "Why would you ever think that? You're the most amazing person I know," he reassured. "Please hyung, don't think like that anymore."

Beomgyu sank further into Taehyun's hug, resting his head against the younger's shoulder. "Soobin's a lot more amazing than me, Taehyunnie," he started, voice so quiet that Taehyun almost didn't hear him. "Obviously he's handsome, but there's so much more to him. He thinks about the little things, you know? He gets coffee delivered to my work, he buys me flowers to congratulate me for the smallest of achievements, he listens to me complain about the stupidest of things, all with a smile on his face. He's like this perfect guy and sometimes I struggle to keep up. It's why I got so stressed when planning his birthday party, it needed to be great because he's so great," Beomgyu admitted, snuggling into Taehyun's chest and feeling a whole lot lighter now he'd confessed about how he had been feeling.

"Hyung," Taehyun soothed, rubbing Beomgyu's back to comfort him. "Soobin-hyung does all those things because he loves you. And do you want to know why he loves you, it's because you're you." He gently pushed Beomgyu away so he could look at his best friend. "Soobin-hyung loves you so much because of how much of an amazing, caring and beautiful person you are. You also think about the little things, and honestly, I don't even know if I'd be the way I am if I hadn't of had an amazing hyung and best friend like you by my side," he said with a warm smile. "Promise me you'll stop thinking like that, know that you're deserving of all the love you receive," Taehyun demanded, though his voice was still gentle as he spoke.

Beomgyu sighed, but a small smile found its way onto his lips. "I can't promise that, Taehyunnie." He pulled his friend into another hug, which the younger immediately returned. "But I promise you that I'm going to try," he reassured, squeezing his best friend to show his gratitude.

"You really are amazing, hyung. I really don't know that I'd do without you in my life," Taehyun whispered, pulling back from the hug.

Neither do I.

Taehyun smiled to signal to the elder he'd heard his thoughts. Beomgyu smiled back. "When did you get so grown up?" Beomgyu teased, lightening the mood.

Taehyun laughed. "Hyung, I'm only a year younger than you," he replied, whining when Beomgyu pinched his cheeks.

***

The next day, Sunday, Taehyun was bracing the cold once again as he headed over to a local coffee shop to meet with Yeonjun.

The elder had texted him the evening before, saying that it would be good to see the younger to check he was okay after an emotional couple of days.

Taehyun had obviously agreed. It was the perfect opportunity for him to tell Yeonjun about his ability to read minds, and he could do it away from the prying eyes and ears of the office.

He pulled his puffer jacket further around himself as he walked to protect himself from the coldness of winter that had overtaken Seoul. Once he stepped inside the coffee shop, his body instantly relaxed at the warmth that spread through him. He glanced around and noticed Yeonjun in the corner, typing away on his phone, not noticing Taehyun as the younger walked over. It wasn't hard to spot the elder considering the coffee shop wasn't that busy, although Taehyun thinks that maybe his eyes were simply drawn to Yeonjun recently.

"Hi, hyung," Taehyun said, announcing his presence and giggling at the startled expression that suddenly overtook Yeonjun's features. The elder relaxed when he saw it was Taehyun, though there was still something slightly tense about him, almost like he was nervous. It only added to Taehyun's own nerves.

"Everything alright, hyung?" Taehyun asked, giving Yeonjun a soft smile as he sat down.

Yeonjun nodded. "Yeah, yeah there's just something I wanted to say. Something that I've wanted to tell you for a really long time actually."

Just say it Yeonjun!

Now Taehyun was curious.

"I, um," Yeonjun stuttered, glancing up at Taehyun who gave him a smile of encouragement. "I like you, Taehyun. Like I really, really like you."

There, I fucking said it!

Taehyun's eyes widened in surprise. Obviously he knew about Yeonjun's feelings for him, that wasn't a shock, and obviously the two had shared a kiss, but he'd never thought that the elder was just going to admit his feelings so suddenly.

Yeonjun looked at him, as if begging him to say something. "You know, I like you more than a friend, like how Soobin likes Beomgyu, that kinda thing." He continued to study Taehyun's face, looking for a reaction, though the younger still felt a little in shock. "Say something, Taehyun, I'm pouring my heart out here," he laughed, although the nerves were clear in his voice.

"I," Taehyun began slowly. He was never very good at receiving romantic attention. He'd only ever had two boyfriends, one in high school and one in college, so he didn't really have that much experience of dating in the adult world or what you should say when someone professes their love for you. "I know." Had that been the right thing to say, Taehyun wasn't so sure.

"You, you what?" Yeonjun asked, surprise and confusion taking over his features.

Am I really that obvious? Soobin always said I was.

"Yeah," Taehyun replied. "I know about your feelings for me," he finished, staring down at his lap, suddenly feeling shy.

"How?" Yeonjun asked. "Did Beomgyu tell you or something? I knew Soobin would tell him."

"Actually hyung," Taehyun began, taking a deep breath as he prepared himself to say the thing he'd been wanting to since he arrived. "I read it in your mind."

Yeonjun continued to look confused for a moment before a look of annoyance crossed his features. "Are you making fun of me or something?"

Taehyun's head shot up as he desperately shook it. "No, hyung, of course not. I'd never do that. I'm telling the truth." He could see that Yeonjun was clearly not believing him. "Look, that really bad headache I had those few weeks ago, it did something to me, at least I think it was that what caused it, I'm still not entirely sure myself. All I know is, I passed out and the next thing I know, I can read minds," he explaining, leaning closer and lowering his voice to avoid anyone else overhearing. He was desperate for Yeonjun to understand, to believe him.

"Okay, fine, then prove it. What am I thinking now," Yeonjun challenged, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair.

Taehyun took a deep breath. He'd been practicing his power a lot lately, wanting to try and control it, and he'd become a lot better at choosing when to read someone's mind. Of course, there were still times when he suddenly heard thoughts through no fault of his own. He studied Yeonjun for a moment as he looked into his mind.

BigBang, 2PM, Shinee, Girls' Generarion.

"You're listing off your favorite bands. BigBang, 2PM, Shinee, Girls' Generation," Taehyun said, copying what he'd heard from Yeonjun's mind.

Yeonjun's eyes widened as he ran his hand threw his hair in disbelief. Taehyun had said what he'd been thinking word for word. "Holy shit," he whispered. "You just read my fucking mind."

Taehyun sighed as he leaned across the table and placed his hand over Yeonjun's that was resting on the table. "I'm sorry, hyung. The last thing I want to do is invade your privacy, but I'm getting better at controlling it," he reassured, giving Yeonjun a small smile.

Yeonjun looked down at Taehyun's hand on his own, before he broke out into laughter. "This is so fucking crazy." He looked at the younger then, a fond smile overtaking his features. "Who knew you could get any more special?"

Taehyun felt himself blush and his heart warm. "Thank you for being so understanding, hyung." He released a breath as he finally relaxed now that Yeonjun knew about his secret. "Honestly, when I first heard your thoughts, about your feelings for me, I was so surprised. Then I started panicking, so that's why I set you up with Chaewon-noona, and then-"

"Wait, wait," Yeonjun began, smile leaving his face as he replaced it with a frown. He slipped his hand out from under Taehyun's, causing the younger to look confused. "You set me up with Chaewon, while knowing about my feelings for you?"

The coldness in Yeonjun's voice had Taehyun's heart dropping. "Wait, what? No, it wasn't like that, hyung. I was confused, and Heeseung had just asked me out, and-"

"Oh, of course," Yeonjun chuckled, but there was no trace of humor to his voice.

Taehyun winced, immediately regretting bringing up Heeseung. He should have known that was only going to cause more problems. "Hyung, I'm sorry, I really am. I know I didn't go about things in the best way, I was scared." His voice became desperate as he spoke to Yeonjun. "But I'm not scared anymore. Hyung, I like you too, that kiss we shared, I-"

"Save it, Taehyun," Yeonjun snapped, cutting the younger off for the third time. "How could you do that? You knew how much I liked you, yet you still went out with Heeseung, and you still set me up with Chaewon." He stood up and put his jacket on, avoiding glancing at Taehyun.

"Wait, where are you going?" Taehyun asked, panicking when seeing Yeonjun about to leave, and it was all Taehyun's fault.

Yeonjun sighed as he finally looked at the younger, giving Taehyun one last sad stare. "I just can't be here right now," he whispered, before heading out of the coffee shop so quickly he probably never even heard Taehyun's desperate pleas for him to stay.

Taehyun couldn't stop the tears from filling his eyes as he was left all alone.

Chapter 6: glitch

It had definitely been a tough few days for Taehyun.

After his disastrous conversation in the coffee shop with Yeonjun, Taehyun had gone home with tears still in his eyes. Beomgyu had demanded to know what Yeonjun had done to upset his best friend so much.

"He didn't do anything," Taehyun had mumbled, the sadness in his voice so prevalent it made Beomgyu's heart break.

"He must have done or said something, Taehyun. Look at you, you're practically heartbroken right now. Did he take the news about you're mind reading powers badly or-"

"He didn't do anything," Taehyun repeated, cutting off Beomgyu. "It was me, I'm the one who messed up, okay?"

And before Beomgyu had been able to respond, Taehyun had shut himself away in his bedroom, willing his brain to forget everything that had happened that afternoon. Thoughts of Yeonjun still entered his mind, no matter how hard he tried to fight them. As he laid there on his bed with nothing but his mind to keep him occupied, it all became a little too much, so he did what he'd been doing a lot of recently, cried until he was all out of tears.

Beomgyu had eventually entered when Taehyun didn't come out for dinner. He sighed when he saw his best friend laying down, back facing him as he entered the room. He gently laid down next to him, pulling him close as he cuddled the younger from behind. Taehyun basked in the affection as he began to sob quietly.

Beomgyu squeezed his best friend tightly. "Everything will be okay, Taehyunnie. You'll be okay."

Beomgyu's gentle tone was all it took for Taehyun to break down and reveal everything that had happened with Yeonjun at the coffee shop.

Taehyun sniffed as the tears continued to fall, turning around to face Beomgyu. "I'm just scared, it feels like I'm losing everyone, first Yeonjun-hyung, and my grandfather, too," Taehyun confessed, voice barely above a whisper.

Beomgyu wiped the younger's tears away. "You're not losing everyone, you've always got me," he reassured. "Whatever happens, you'll never lose me, Taehyunnie. You're my best friend and I'm not going anywhere."

I really mean it.

Taehyun cuddled further into Beomgyu as he buried his face into his best friend's chest. "I love you, hyung. Thank you," he whispered.

The two had continued to lay there until Taehyun's stomach started growling, causing Beomgyu to giggle as he promptly ordered a pizza for the two to share.

And although Taehyun had felt better after his conversation with Beomgyu, the next few days were still hard.

At work the next day, Taehyun had hoped of maybe explaining himself and properly apologizing to Yeonjun about everything that had happened between the two of them. However, the elder had decided that he was ignoring Taehyun, as he headed straight for his desk and didn't even spare a glance in the younger's direction.

When a few hours had passed, Taehyun had psyched himself up and went and asked Yeonjun to lunch, with the hope of speaking to him then.

"Sorry, I'm heading out to lunch with Wooyoung today," had been Yeonjun's reply, eyes never leaving his computer screen as he refused to even glance at Taehyun.

Wooyoung looked over from where he'd been walking past as he raised his eyebrows at Yeonjun. "Uhh, what? But I'm having lunch with San today."

Yeonjun glared at him. "Shut up, Wooyoung," he hissed. But Taehyun got the message.

I don't want to talk to you right now, Taehyun.

"Oh. Okay," Taehyun had replied dejectedly. "That's fine, hyung. No worries." He'd wandered out of the office with a pain in his chest as he tried not to cry. He was upset that Yeonjun was ignoring him, and at himself for hurting the elder's feelings.

And things hadn't been much better since then, as it was now a couple of days after that, and Yeonjun still wasn't talking to him.

And Taehyun was struggling. With everything.

The first thing he saw when he woke up was that his mom had texted him. It looked like they were all allowed to finally go and visit his grandfather. The problem was, Taehyun didn't want to go, because seeing his grandfather meant facing the reality that he was sick, that he was dying.

He tossed his phone on his bed as he stumbled out of his bedroom, trying to distract his mind from anything to do with his grandfather.

"Hey, hyung," he mumbled to Beomgyu, voice still thick with sleep.

Beomgyu smiled, ruffling his hair as Taehyun sat down next to him after the younger had poured himself a bowl of cereal. "How are you feeling this morning?"

Taehyun shrugged. "Fine, I guess," he replied, shoving a spoonful of cereal into his mouth. The two continued to sit and eat in a comfortable silence.

"Morning, Taehyunnie," Soobin greeted, exiting Beomgyu's bedroom from where he'd stayed the night. Soobin had been a good friend to Taehyun the past few days, for which the younger was extremely appreciative of. He knew Soobin was in a tough position, Yeonjun was his best friend and he wanted to support him, but it didn't discard the fact that Taehyun was also a really close friend of Soobin's now.

"Morning," Taehyun replied, not looking up as he ate another spoonful of cereal. He did eventually glance up as the elder sat down next to him and Beomgyu. He took in Soobin's appearance. He was shirtless, which was not uncommon whenever he spent the night with Beomgyu, and his hair was messed up, probably both from sleep and sex that the two had no doubt engaged in the night before. He looked hot, Taehyun acknowledged in his mind, but it wasn't a big deal, everyone who met Soobin thought he was handsome. "I have to say hyung, you look so hot right now." He quickly covered his mouth in shock. Wait, did he really just say that. It had been a small thought in the back of his head, but he never wanted to actually voice it. It's like his brain had forced him to say whatever he was thinking.

Beomgyu turned to look at Taehyun, staring pointedly at the younger. Soobin blushed, quickly throwing his hoodie on. "Did you just call my boyfriend hot?" Beomgyu demanded, though his voice lacked any real anger. He knew he had a hot boyfriend, it's only natural others would notice.

Taehyun turned to look back at his best friend. "Did I really just say that? I never meant to actually voice it out loud, it just sorta came out before I could stop it," he said, more to himself as he tried to process everything that had just happened.

"So you do think he's hot?" Beomgyu asked again, though he wasn't actually jealous, he knew Taehyun didn't actually fancy Soobin.

"Well, yeah, everyone knows Soobin's hot. Not as hot as Yeonjun-hyung though." Taehyun's eyes widened as he slapped his hand over his mouth once more. He turned to Beomgyu with panic in his voice. "Hyung, something's happening to me, I can't control everything I'm saying."

"Okay for the record, Soobin-hyung is way hotter than Yeonjun-hyung," Beomgyu started, oblivious to the way Soobin was blushing from where he was sat opposite the younger duo. "Secondly, has your mind-reading power been playing up? Maybe it's a side effect or something?"

"Hyung," Taehyun hissed, gesturing to Soobin, who as far as Taehyun was aware, was still in the dark over the fact that Taehyun was a mind reader.

Beomgyu rolled his eyes half-heartedly. "Relax, Taehyunnie, Soobin knows about your power, I've already told him."

"Hyung," Taehyun whined. "I told you that in confidence."

Beomgyu shrugged. "You never told me not to tell anyone, so I told Soobin. And unlike you did with me, I actually told him not to tell anyone, so don't worry, you're secret's safe."

"Gee, thanks hyung," Taehyun replied sarcastically.

Soobin coughed to get both of the bickering friends' attention. "If you want my opinion Taehyunnie, it sounds like this has got something to do with your power. Are you feeling stressed? There must be a reason as to why you're saying your own thoughts rather than reading others'."

Taehyun shrugged, not mentioning the stressful few days he'd had with everything to do with his grandfather and of course, Yeonjun. "I've just had a lot going on recently." He looked at Soobin. "Maybe things would be better if Yeonjun stopped ignoring me."

Soobin smiled at Taehyun's revelation. "Aha, that's it, you are stressed out, and clearly Yeonjun-hyung isn't doing anything to help the situation."

Taehyun huffed as he got up, dropping his now empty bowl of cereal in the sink. "I'm not stressed, I'm fine." He saw their faces looking back at him like they didn't believe him. "Whatever," Taehyun began, feeling himself growing frustrated at this conversation. "I've gotta get ready for work. I've got an important meeting with my boss today." And with that, he was pacing to his bedroom and slamming the door behind him.

"Well that went well," Beomgyu muttered once the couple were left alone.

"He'll be okay," Soobin replied, before a smile lit up his face as he turned to his boyfriend with a cocky smirk. "Look at you with your hot boyfriend," he teased.

Beomgyu rolled his eyes, but couldn't quite fight his own smile. "Hey, you've got a hot boyfriend too. I'm one of the cutest guys in Seoul, I'll have you know."

Soobin chuckled as he pulled Beomgyu onto his lap. "No, baby, you're the cutest guy in Korea."

Beomgyu smiled as he leaned in to capture his boyfriend's lips in a kiss.

***

Taehyun tried to calm himself down as he rode the elevator up to the office.

Ever since the morning when he'd made those comments about Soobin, his mouth speaking before he could stop himself, he'd been on edge.

He just prayed that it was the end of whatever weird thing was going on with him.

He entered the office and saw that mostly everyone had already arrived. Yeonjun was there, talking and laughing with Wooyoung about something over at the latter's desk. He glanced up to see who'd arrived, the smile quickly falling from his face when he saw it was Taehyun. He turned back to Wooyoung immediately, refusing to look at the younger.

It made Taehyun's heart break a little. Yeonjun was being so distant with him, and with the younger being constantly ignored and avoided, it made him crave those moments of how it used to be. Taehyun felt so much regret for ever saying that he found the elder annoying, because he'd give anything to have that back right now.

He tried reading Yeonjun's mind to hear what the elder was thinking about, but much like earlier, it seemed this stupid power of his was broken. It looked like Taehyun couldn't hear thoughts anymore, only verbalise his own.

"Yo, what's the deal with you two at the moment?" Taehyun heard Wooyoung ask, voice not particularly quiet, as he sat down at his desk, his back to Wooyoung and Yeonjun.

"Fuck, bro, could you be any louder?" Yeonjun hissed. "And there is no 'deal'," Yeonjun started, trying to keep his own voice low, but Taehyun could still hear him in the quiet office. "Me and Taehyun... it's nothing. We're nothing."

Taehyun's chest tightened at Yeonjun's hurtful words. He turned on his computer as he took a deep breath to try and stop himself from potentially crying in the middle of the office. He knows he upset Yeonjun, he knows he's made mistakes, but why is Yeonjun acting like he hates him so much?

"So, you're not into him anymore?" Wooyoung asked.

"What do you mean?" Yeonjun coughed awkwardly, lowering his voice to try and stop Taehyun hearing, which unbeknownst to the two wasn't working, as the younger could still hear everything.

"C'mon dude," Wooyoung started. "You're a lovesick puppy around him, I'm simply asking if you're feelings have changed?”

"Shut up Wooyoung. Look, there's nothing between me and Taehyun, alright?"

Taehyun's heart broke a little more.

Wooyoung held his hands up in surrender, not that Taehyun could see that. "Chill out, dude. I was only asking." A pause. "You're avoiding my question, you know? Which means that clearly you do still have some deep feelings for him despite whatever weird shit happened between you two."

He heard Yeonjun scoff, and then Taehyun could see his figure walking past him as he made his way over to his own desk. He looked pissed off, eyes still refusing to meet Taehyun's own.

Taehyun's phone suddenly pinged. It was another message from his mom.

Are you getting my messages? Me and dad are thinking of going to see grandpa tonight. Let me know if you can come? Love you darling xx

Taehyun's thumb hovered over the reply button, before he took a deep breath and quickly shoved his phone into his bag. He couldn't deal with both the guy he likes hating him and a sick grandfather who only had so many days left.

The rest of the morning passed with not too much trouble for Taehyun. There was even part of his brain that was forgetting about all of the current troubles in his life, because he was too busy preparing for his meeting with Mr. Kim. It also meant that because he was busy, he wasn't talking to anyone, and therefore he wasn't revealing any embarrassing inner thoughts and feelings that he may have.

That was until he headed to the breakroom to grab a cup of sweet and sugary coffee, only to be greeted by the sight of Yeonjun .

The elder was stood there as he waited for the kettle to boil, glancing up at Taehyun as the younger entered, before pulling out his phone and blatantly ignoring him. Taehyun felt himself growing tired and frustrated from the action, fed up of this stupid game that Yeonjun seemed to have been playing the past few days.

"You know, this constant need to ignore me, not even look at me, it's all starting to feel pretty childish." Taehyun's eyes widened when he realised what he'd just said. "Um, I mean. Hyung, I'm sorry, that just came out-"

"Excuse me," Yeonjun interrupted sharply. "Firstly, remember that I'm older than you, so don't ever talk to me like that again. Secondly," Yeonjun started, stalking closer to Taehyun and pointing his finger at him. "You're the one who screwed up, so I think I'm entitled to feel a little hurt by your actions and deal with it the way I want to, understand?"

Taehyun felt his eyes shine as he desperately blinked back his tears. "Hyung, I'm sorry, I really am, I," he trailed off, before a familiar sensation travelled through him and he was once again helpless but to let his mouth say what his mind was thinking. "But all of this is hurting me too, okay?" He slapped his hand over his mouth as he felt tears fall from his eyes. He couldn't help it, even if Yeonjun had seem him cry more in the past few days than he had in the year they'd known each other. Whatever was happening to him was really scary.

Yeonjun noticed his strange behavior and panicked expression, and looked at him confused. "What's going on with you?" His voice had a trace of gentleness hidden somewhere, but Taehyun could clearly hear it.

Taehyun felt his heart rate speed up as he tried to stop the panic overtake him. He really didn't know what was happening to him. "Hyung, help me, please. Something's wrong with me, I can't control what I'm saying," he whimpered, looking desperately at the elder. "Please, please hyung, help me-"

"Okay, okay," Yeonjun soothed, voice taking on a much softer tone as he shushed the younger. He gently took hold of Taehyun's hands as he lent down slightly so he was eye level with the younger. The coldness in his face had gone as he looked at Taehyun with a warm yet worried expression. "Just calm down, Taehyunnie, and tell me what's happened. Can you do that for hyung?"

And Taehyun couldn't refuse Yeonjun, so he did tell him. He told him that when he woke up, that instead of reading minds, he was verbalising his unfiltered thoughts. He told him about the morning with Soobin and Beomgyu, and no Yeonjun definitely wasn't jealous that Taehyun had called Soobin hot, not at all. The younger told him how whatever was going on with him was really scaring him, and if this was just the way his power was going to be now?

"What's happening to me, hyung?" Taehyun spoke, his voice quiet, sad, and scared.

Yeonjun pulled him into a hug as he saw how much distress the younger was in. The action so comforting and familiar, Taehyun had almost forgotten the elder had been angry with him mere moments ago. "It's alright, we'll work it out, okay? Why don't you go home, take the rest of the day off. I'm sure Mr. Kim would understand-"

"Oh, shit," Taehyun interrupted, pulling away from the hug as he looked up Yeonjun, his eyes wide and still shining with tears. "I'm supposed to have a meeting with Mr. Kim in one hour. What happens if my stupid power plays up and I say something embarrassing? Oh god, oh god-"

"Taehyun," Yeonjun cut him off. "It'll be okay. You're going to be fine. Just try not to think too deeply about anything, and maybe you won't feel the need to say anything." He rubbed Taehyun's back as he said it, trying to be encouraging.

Taehyun nodded, though he still didn't look fully convinced. "Okay, yeah. I can do that. I was fine all morning when I was thinking about work, I'm sure I'll be fine for the meeting."

Yeonjun smiled encouragingly. "Exactly, there's nothing to worry about." He guided Taehyun out of the breakroom and back to his desk. "Now prepare what you need to prepare, and everything will be fine," he reassured.

Taehyun sat down as Yeonjun instructed. He felt a wave of confidence wash over him as he suddenly grabbed Yeonjun's hand and gave it a greatful squeeze, smiling as he looked up at the elder. "Thank you, hyung." And he really meant it, he'd missed Yeonjun so much these past few days.

Yeonjun blushed slightly, but he didn't pull his hand away, so Taehyun counted it as a win. The elder gave him a small smile in return before he quickly headed back in the breakroom to pour the coffee that he'd been making before the younger had entered.

He even made Taehyun his own cup too.

***

"Well I think that's all we need to discuss, Taehyun," Mr. Kim smiled from where he sat at his desk.

Taehyun sat across from him, smiling politely in return. "Thank you, Mr. Kim."

"And you're still liking it here? You like the work? Like the people?" Mr. Kim asked.

Taehyun nodded, "Definitely, the works really rewarding, and everyone's so supportive." Thoughts of Yeonjun suddenly filled his mind. "And I get to work with Yeonjun-hyung, I have to admit it's nice working with someone who I think I might be falling in love with." Oh god, why does his power have to play up now of all times?

Wait, did Taehyun just say that he was falling in love with Yeonjun? In love? Is this what his subconscious mind really thinks?

Mr. Kim looked shocked for a moment at his employee's sudden confession, before there was a light knock at the door of his private office. Mr. Kim’s eyes glanced up before a small chuckle left his mouth.

Taehyun followed where his boss was looking, only to see none other that Choi Yeonjun stood at the door, laptop in hand and clearly coming to ask Mr. Kim a question about his work. He had a slight blush on his face, but he couldn't hide his smile as he looked at Taehyun.

"Sorry, Sir," Yeonjun began, laughing awkwardly, but looking oh so happy. "I just had a quick question, but I can see you two are still busy."

"Not at all, Yeonjun," Mr. Kim smiled. "Me and Taehyun were just finshing up." He looked at Taehyun and smiled, and the younger was just thankful that his boss was letting him leave so he could hide away in embarrassment for revealing such a thing unknowingly in front of Yeonjun.

"Thank you, Mr. Kim," Taehyun said, standing up and rushing out of the office, avoiding the wide smile that Yeonjun was throwing his way. Although part of Taehyun couldn’t help but like it, because Yeonjun smiling at him was always better than Yeonjun who ignored him.

He closed the door to the office as he went back to his desk and tried to process what had just happened. Was he really falling in love with Yeonjun?

"So the meeting went well then?" Taehyun jumped at the voice as he turned to see Yeonjun glancing down at him from where he stood in front of his desk. He glanced at his watch and noticed he'd been lost in his thoughts for five minutes. Yeonjun must have already finished asking Mr. Kim whatever he needed to ask him. God, Taehyun really needed to stop daydreaming so much.

"It was fine," Taehyun replied. He busied himself with work as he turned back to the computer screen in front of him.

"Aww, is Taehyunnie getting shy now? C'mon, you've been hearing my thoughts for weeks, it's nice I get to finally hear yours," Yeonjun teased, but he sounded nothing but fond when he spoke to Taehyun.

Taehyun blushed, but he didn't reply. He continued to click away on his computer.

"Don't ignore me, Taehyunnie," Yeonjun cutely whined, sounding anything but demanding.

Taehyun couldn't help but giggle at the elder's cuteness. "Hyung," he whined back, causing Yeonjun to chuckle, eyes twinkling. "I've got work to do, we can talk later," he said.

Yeonjun sighed dramatically. "This is not the romantic scene I had in mind when you eventually confessed you're undying love for me," he joked as he went back to his own desk, throwing a cheeky glance at Taehyun.

Taehyun laughed. "Hyung, shut up!"

Yes he should feel embarrassed he basically confessed in front of Yeonjun, but he was just too elated that the elder was talking to him again.

***

"Hey, Taehyun."

Taehyun glanced up from his desk to see Heeseung smiling at him. Taehyun was silently thankful that Yeonjun wasn't around. Turns out, the elder did actually have plans to grab lunch with Wooyoung, and so the two were still out, probably eating some greasy yet delicious fast food.

"Hi, hyung. How are you?"

"I'm good. But I wanted to check if you were okay? Last time I properly spoke to you was at the party, and you left looking quite upset," Heeseung said, voice soft.

Taehyun sighed. "Yeah, just family stuff," he replied. His mom had actually texted him again when he had quickly gone to grab himself a sandwich from the cafeteria downstairs. He hadn't yet responded, still in denial over his grandfather being in hospital. Yes, if the doctors were allowing him visitors, he probably was feeling better. But Taehyun knew it was only a matter of time before his grandfather would fall sick again.

Heeseung seemed to sense not everything was right with the younger, but he didn't pry. "Well, if you ever want someone to talk to, remember I'm here," he smiled.

"Thanks, hyung," Taehyun replied. "You’re so lovely, you know? I think everyone needs someone like you in their lives."

Hesseung blushed. "Ah, thanks, Taehyun," he replied shyly, feeling surprised but flattered at the younger's compliment.

Taehyun blushed and smiled himself when he realised what he'd said, but it was quickly wiped from his face when he heard a pointed cough. Yeonjun was stood at the door to the office with a disgruntled expression on his face. He'd obviously just got back and heard what Taehyun had said, and he clearly didn't like it.

Taehyun stood up with wide eyes, trying to calm Yeonjun down, to convince him that what he said about Heeseung meant nothing, because truly it didn't. Yes, Taehyun liked Heeseung's company, found him to be a genuine and supportive person, and hopefully a really good friend. But that was it. Taehyun knew now that he only had eyes for Yeonjun.

"Hyung-" Taehyun began, but was quickly cut off.

Yeonjun ignored him as he stormed back out, barging past Wooyoung who had also just entered the office.

"Woah, Yeonjun, where you going, man?" Wooyoung called after him. Yeonjun didn't reply.

Heeseung let out a soft sigh as he spoke to Taehyun. "Go after him, Taehyun," he encoraged, smiling softly at the younger.

Taehyun sent him a greatful smile as he followed Yeonjun out the office.

"Yeonjun," he called, as he caught up with the elder who was about to enter the elevator, Taehyun sliding in beside him.

Yeonjun turned to face Taehyun, annoyed the younger had followed him as they were now stuck in the elevator together. "What?"

Taehyun narrowed his eyes. "Why are you getting annoyed? Is it because of Heeseung?"

"What do you think?" Yeonjun replied, expression annoyed.

"Hyung," Taehyun began. "Heeseung's my friend. Of course I think fondly of him." His voice took on a softer tone as he stepped closer to Yeonjun. "But you know how I feel about you. You heard me with Mr. Kim earlier. Why can't that be enough for you?"

Yeonjun continued to look annoyed. "You went on a date with him, Taehyun. Of course I don't like hearing it when you say things like that to him." He sighed as he ran a hand through his hair. "Look, I know you've got a lot going on at the moment, with everything happening with your family." His voice turned softer, almost sad, as he looked at Taehyun. "I've liked you for a really long time, and I just want to be sure that you're sure about us, that you've really thought all of this through, before we start anything. I don't want us to end up hurting each other. And right now, when I see you with Heeseung, it hurts me."

Taehyun didn't reply for a while, he just stared past Yeonjun's shoulder as he took in the elder's words. He knows it was coming from a good place, but Taehyun thought it sounded a little like a rejection. He knows his acrions have hurt Yeonjun, but Yeonjun hadn't exactly made Taehyun feel great about himself these past few days either.

"Okay," Taehyun eventually said. "If that's how you feel." He took a deep breath to calm himself down. "And it saddens me that you feel that way. The last thing I want to do is hurt you, hyung. But sometimes I feel hurt too."

He stepped out of the elevator as soon as it opened, not even waiting to hear the elder's reply. Yeonjun was right about one thing, there was a lot going on with his family, but Taehyun was done being scared as he prepared himself to finally face the one thing he'd been avoiding.

***

"Hi, dad," Taehyun said as pulled his father into a big hug in the hospital hallway.

"Taehyun," he breathed as he held his son tightly. "Are you okay? We were worried when you didn't answer your mother's texts."

Taehyun nodded as he pulled back. "Yeah, sorry. It's just been a stressful day at work." His dad looked like he wanted to ask more, but Taehyun didn't want to talk about it, so he quickly changed the subject. "Is mom inside with grandpa?" He gestured to the hospital room as he spoke.

His dad nodded. "Yeah." He studied Taehyun's worried expression fot a moment. "He's okay, son. He's talking and laughing, a lot better than how he was."

Taehyun smiled, though it didn't quite reach his eyes.

The two entered the room, and his grandfather instantly brightened at the arrival of his grandson. "Taehyun, how are you my gorgeous boy?"

Taehyun smiled, a lot more genuine to what it had been moments before. "Hi grandpa." He sat down next to his grandfather's hospital bed, taking hold of his hand. "I'm okay, just been busy with work, but nothing was going to stop me from coming to see you."

His grandfather smiled, blinking his eyes sleepily.

"Are you tired, dad?" Taehyun's mom asked her father.

"I'm okay, darling. I can't go to sleep yet, Taehyun's only just arrived."

Taehyun squeezed his grandfather's hand gently. "It's okay, grandpa. I'll stay with you while you sleep," he whispered gently. "I'm stay as long as you want me to. I want to be there for you like you've always been there for me." His grandfather smiled at him softly, and Taehyun couldn't hold back. "I'm really scared of the day I have to say goodbye to you, you know? So I'm not wasting anymore time. I'm tired of being scared."

His mom and dad turned to him with sad expressions, while his grandfather used what strength he had to pull him into a hug. "No matter what happens, Taehyun, I'll always be with you."

Taehyun smiled as he held his grandfather gently.

Once his grandfather had fallen asleep, Taehyun whispered to his parents that he was just heading to the bathroom quickly.

He stepped out and then heard his phone ping.

A text from Yeonjun.

I'm sorry if I upset you.

Taehyun looked at that message, debating whether to reply or not.

Me too.

He pocketed his phone after sending the message, telling himself not to focus on everything going on with Yeonjun at the moment as his grandfather slept in hospital.

What should I cook the kids for dinner tonight?

Taehyun's head whipped up at the doctor who'd just passed. He'd just read her mind.

He smiled to himself. Maybe coming to see his grandfather was all it took to make things normal again.

Chapter 7: me and you

Yeonjun never came to work the following morning.

Taehyun was a little surprised, because it was rare that Yeonjun ever missed work. Part of him couldn't shake the feeling that maybe the elder had taken the day off because he was avoiding him.

"Hey, Wooyoung-hyung?" Taehyun asked as he wandered over to the said male's desk. Wooyoung was one of Yeonjun's best friends, so if anyone knew where the elder might be, it would be him. "Do you know what's going on with Yeonjun-hyung? Why isn't he here?"

Wooyoung sighed. "He messaged me last night to say he wouldn't be in this morning, but he didn't say why." Well at least Wooyoung had said Yeonjun only wasn't here for the morning, and that it sounded like he'd be back in the afternoon. It gave Taehyun a little confidence that maybe the elder just had an appointment or something, rather than doing his current favorite hobby of avoiding Taehyun. Wooyoung sent Taehyun a sad smile as he saw the younger getting lost in his thoughts. "You know, Yeonjun would hate me for telling you this, but since you guys argued, or whatever it was that happened between you two, the guy's been a mess."

Taehyun felt guilt consume him. "I know. I know I haven't probably treated him the best these past few weeks, and I am really sorry about that. I truly never wanted to hurt him or anyone or-"

"I'm not blaming you, Taehyun," Wooyoung replied softly. "Yeonjun's far from perfect himself," he joked.

Taehyun gave him a weak smile. He glanced around the office to see his coworkers busy on their computers and laptops as they became engrossed in work. "I guess I should get back to it," he said to Wooyoung. He began heading over to his own desk, feeling tired because once again, he had no idea where he stood with Yeonjun.

"Hey, Taehyun," Wooyoung called. Taehyun turned around. "Yeonjun's far from perfect, but he is a really good guy. One of the best guys I know actually."

Taehyun sent him a soft smile. "Don't worry. I know, hyung."

"And you know you're also a really good guy too, don't you?" Wooyoung continued.

I think you'd both be really great together.

Taehyun paused for a moment, giving Wooyoung a small smile in lieu of a reply as he sat down at his desk, unsure of how to respond to the elder.

As the morning turned into the afternoon, Yeonjun finally showed. Taehyun had just come back from lunch to see the elder sat at his desk, brows furrowed in concentration as he typed away on his computer.

He glanced up when he heard Taehyun enter, giving the younger a small smile and nod. "You okay?"

Taehyun nodded, dropping his bag down at his desk before he strolled over to Yeonjun. "So where were you today?" Taehyun couldn't help himself, he was too curious for his own good sometimes.

Yeonjun studied him for a moment. "Is your power back to normal? Can't you just read it in my mind?" The elder's tone wasn't accusing or harsh, simply curious.

"Yeah, it's normal again. If you call mind-reading normal," he joked, causing Yeonjun to breath out a small chuckle. "But I'm better at controlling it these days. If I hear something without intending to, then I accept that, but I'm not going to be invading everyone's privacy if I can help it, especially not yours, hyung."

Yeonjun appeared shocked for a moment, before a smile finally formed on his face at Taehyun's words. There was a long moment of silence where they simply stared at each other. "I had a job interview this morning." Yeonjun eventually said.

Taehyun's eyes widened in surprise. "What?"

Yeonjun looked sheepish as he glanced around the office. "Mr. Kim actually recommended me for the position. It's still with this company, but I'll be leading my own team. And the money's great too."

Taehyun nodded. "That's great, hyung." He fiddled with his hands awkwardly as he struggled to look happy for the elder and not let his own disappoitment show. "So, we won't be working together anymore then, I guess?" He tried to hide the sadness in his voice, but he doubted he was successful, because Yeonjun's eyes turned soft when they looked at him.

"I might not even get the job, Taehyunnie."

"You will," Taehyun countered quickly. "You're so smart and good at what you do, hyung. Of course you're going to get it."

Yeonjun blushed slightly. "Well, even if I do get it, I'll still be working here, just on a different floor." He paused for a moment, almost looking nervous as he said his next thing. "We can still walk home together though, maybe even go for lunch sometimes, if you want?"

Taehyun's smile grew. He couldn't help himself, it was a nice reassurance Yeonjun still wanted to spend time with him, despite everything that had happened between the two recently.

Whatever happens, I'm always going to be there for you, Taehyunnie.

"I'd like that," he replied, looking at the elder for a moment, before eventually strolling back to his own desk.

Yeonjun smiled in return.

***

"You feel sad about Yeonjun-hyung, don't you?" Beomgyu asked as he, Taehyun, and Huening Kai stepped out of Beomgyu and Taehyun's apartment, beginning their walk to the subway.

Beomgyu had messaged Taehyun earlier while the younger had been at work, saying how he thought the whole group, including Yeonjun and Soobin, should do something because they hadn't all hung out together in a really long time.

Taehyun had been hesitant. There was still an air of awkwardness between him and Yeonjun at the moment, despite them sort of clearing the air the day before at the office. But Beomgyu had been insistent, determined for Taehyun to actually have a good time for once and forget all of his worries just for one night.

Taehyun shrugged. "I'm happy for him. Hyung's so great at what he does, if anyone deserves that job, it's him."

Beomgyu sighed. "You're still allowed to feel sad, Taehyunnie. I know you complain about how much he annoys you, but we can all see how much you love working with Yeonjun-hyung."

Huening Kai hummed in agreement. "Yeah, Taehyunnie, it really is okay. I'd be sad too if the guy I was practically in love with wasn't going to be around anymore."

Taehyun scoffed as he marched ahead of the pair in annoyance. "Jeez, guys, you make it sound like he's dying or something." He turned around and sent Huening Kai a glare. "And I'm not 'practically in love' with him," he said, although it sounded like a lie even to himself.

"Hey, Taehyunnie, slow down," Beomgyu called, fastening his pace to keep up with his best friend. "Don't let Kai annoy you too much"

Kai let out an annoyed whine at Beomgyu's words before he too quickened his pace to keep up with the others.

Taehyun ignored them as he entered the subway station. He wasn't actually annoyed at his two best friends, it's just he'd quite like a night off from thinking about Yeonjun and all of these overwhelming feelings he had for the elder. It didn't help he was going to see Yeonjun in mere moments.

The train arrived promptly and the trio climbed on. Beomgyu sat in the middle, him and Huening Kai laughing about something on the eldest's phone. Taehyun closed his eyes, suddenly coming over really sleepy. How was he going to get through tonight?

"Soobin looks so hot," Beomgyu squealed, gushing over a photo on his phone that his boyfriend had just sent him. He leaned over slightly and held his phone up to Huening Kai, who also squealed, though that might have been because he'd downed a glass of soju before they'd left the apartment.

"You look hot tonight too though, hyung," Huening Kai began. "You and Soobin-hyung are probably going to be the hottest ones there."

Beomgyu blushed. "That's very sweet of you, Kai." He tried to fight a smile, but failed. Everyone knew Beomgyu loved compliments.

Beomgyu leaned over into Taehyun's space next. "My lovely boyfriend also sent a photo of Yeonjun-hyung, thought you might like it," he teased. "Want to see?"

Taehyun groaned. "We're going to see them at the bar in, like, two minutes. I'm sure I can wait," he replied sarcastically.

Beomgyu shrugged. "Suit yourself." He looked at Huening Kai and showed the younger his phone. "Kai, look how hot Yeonjun-hyung looks tonight!"

"Wow." Huening Kai turned to Taehyun. "Taehyun you should really see this, your boyfriend is so hot."

"Kai, stop. We're not even together. Yeonjun-hyung is definitely not my boyfriend," Taehyun awkwardly defended himself as he blushed furiously.

Beomgyu looked at Taehyun. The younger was sporting some smokey and subtle eyeshadow, courtesy of Beomgyu himself, and his short and dark hair was pushed back off his face making him look a lot more grown up. He completed his look with fitted jeans and a loose t-shirt, with his warm coat wrapped around him to help protect the younger from the cold. "Trust me," Beomgyu began, turning to Taehyun. "I don't think Yeonjun's going to be able to resist you with how good you look tonight, Taehyunnie. I'm sure if you said you wanted to marry him right now, he'd jump at the chance."

Taehyun blushed. "Stop it, hyung." He wriggled in his seat to try and make himself smaller and ignore his friends' teasing.

The three of them eventually arrived outside the bar they'd all planned to meet at. It was really close to the station so the walk had been short, which was nice in the cold weather. Taehyun shivered as he pulled his coat further around himself. He'd suggested they wait inside, but Beomgyu didn't trust either Yeonjun or Soobin's sense of direction, and thought they'd get lost if Beomgyu wasn't stood outside waving his arms around like a crazy person.

"Soobin!"

Taehyun glanced up at Beomgyu's loud voice just in time to see his best friend running over into his boyfriend's arms. Soobin pulled Beomgyu close as he wrapped his arms around the younger's shoulders.

Taehyun was so lost in his own thoughts of wishing that Beomygu would hurry the fuck up and finish greeting Soobin already so that they could all head inside, that he didn't even notice Yeonjun wandering over to him and Huening Kai.

"Hey you two."

Taehyun turned as Yeonjun sent him a smile. Huening Kai gave the elder a big grin and pulled him in for a hug.

"You look great tonight, hyung," Huening Kai said, complimenting Yeonjun. His expression then turned teasing as he continued. "For an old man," he commented, laughing at his own joke.

"Okay, you brat," Yeonjun replied, humor prevalent in his voice as he stared at the youngest fondly. "Just wait until you get to my age."

Huening Kai continued to laugh as he ran over to greet Soobin, pulling the taller man into a hug of his own.

Yeonjun turned to Taehyun once they were left alone. "Amazing. I mean, look, you look, wow."

You look beautiful.

Taehyun blushed and smiled. "Thanks, hyung." He took in Yeonjun's own apperance. It was true what Beomgyu had said on the train, Yeonjun did look really good tonight. He had on dark jeans and a jacket, and his black hair was gelled back. Taehyun felt himself grow slightly hotter just from looking at the elder. "You look really nice too," he said, not really knowing how to say what he was feeling without coming across like a weirdo.

Yeonjun smiled widely. He looked like he was about to say something else, when he noticed Taehyun shivering. "Are you cold?" His eyebrows furrowed in worry as he spoke.

"A little, but it's okay," Taehyun reassured.

Yeonjun pulled his own coat off and wrapped it around Taehyun, so the younger was now stood in two layers of outerwear.

"Hyung, what are you doing? It's freezing out here, you'll catch a cold, and I'm already wearing my own coat-"

"I'm wearing a hoodie and we're heading inside in a moment, Taehyun. So I'm fine." He helped push Taehyun's arms through the jacket. It was quite a bit oversized on the younger.

You're cute.

Yeonjun stepped back and smiled. His teeth slowly started chattering as the two continued to stand there, looking at each other as they didn't know what to say. After about two minutes, Yeonjun eventually guided Taehyun inside the bar as he rested his hand on the small of the younger's back. "Okay, you're right it's pretty fucking cold, let's head inside. Screw Beomgyu and Soobin for taking too fucking long."

Taehyun couldn't help but laugh at him.

***

The five friends ended up around a booth inside the bar, laughing and joking with each other as they all caught up on what had happened in each other's lives recently. Taehyun was still only on his first drink, but he already felt lighter. Not drunk, just, happy. Like there was less stress on his shoulders. He was wedged between Yeonjun and Huening Kai, while Soobin and Beomgyu sat opposite, the younger pracically in his boyfriend's lap.

"It's nice to properly hang out with you all again. I missed you guys," Beomgyu announced, cuddling further into Soobin.

"We see each other all the time, hyung," Taehyun said to his best friend.

Beomgyu rolled his eyes. "Yes. But when do the five of us actually all hang out together, Taehyunnie?"

Taehyun did have to agree with his best friend. It was admittedly nice just being out with his friends and not worrying about everything going on in his life for once.

"I know what you mean, baby," Soobin said to the man in his arms. "I can't remember the last time all of us went out like this," he mused.

Beomgyu turned to Soobin and gave him a quick kiss, before the two began whispering amongst themselves, giggling and becoming engrossed in their own little world.

Huening Kai turned to the other two, scratching his neck awkwardly as the couple in front of them began acting like two lovesick teenagers. "So how's work guys?" He looked from Yeonjun to Taehyun as he spoke.

"Good," Taehyun replied, sipping his drink. "Not much change for me really. Same old, same old."

Huening Kai turned to Yeonjun. "What about you, hyung? Soobin-hyung told me you had an interview a couple of days ago. How'd that go?"

Yeonjun glanced at Taehyun, before shuffling in his seat awkwardly. "It, uh-"

"Hyung's only gone and got the job," Soobin interrupted, oblivious to the annoyed glare Yeonjun was throwing his way.

"Of all the times you could jump back into the conversation, bro," Yeonjun eye-rolled, but Soobin just ignored him.

Beomgyu gasped excitedly, as did Huening Kai. A look of surprise overtook Taehyun's features, before he plastered a smile on his face, though it didn't quite meet his eyes. "That's amazing, hyung. I knew you'd get it." He couldn't quite hide the sadness in his voice. Truly, he was happy for Yeonjun, but he couldn't help but know that Yeonjun's promotion meant that things were changing, and therefore he wasn't going to see the elder as much. Part of him was worried that the two might grow apart, especially as they didn't seem to be any closer to figuring out whatever was going on between them.

Yeonjun shuffled slightly closer to Taehyun, a small act of comfort as he observed the younger. "I only found out earlier today," he muttered softly.

I'm sorry. I wanted to be the one to tell you.

Taehyun gave the elder a soft smile to show that he'd heard him. He was grateful for Yeonjun, because the elder didn't actually owe him an explanation, he didn't owe him anything really.

It seemed to be that no one else sensed the slight and sudden awkwardness that had formed between Yeonjun and Taehyun. Beomgyu was so oblivious, that he was already ordering more drinks for everyone. Soon enough, the drinks were flowing and everyone started loosening up.

The group eventually slowly started to disperse as the night stretched on. At some point, Beomgyu and Soobin sneaked away to a hidden corner of the bar where they could share drunken kisses uninterrupted and without the teasing from their friends. Huening Kai became a giggling mess as he happily moved on the dancefloor. Taehyun and Yeonjun both stayed pretty sober, generally staying close to the other as they sat in the booth. They didn't talk much, but it was nice to have each other's company, and they could also keep a close eye on their friends to make sure they avoided any trouble.

"I'm glad you came out tonight," Yeonjun eventually said over the music, leaning in closer so Taehyun could hear him. The younger could also smell his cologne this close, and he smelled so, so good, it made Taehyun feel a little dizzy. "I know we see each other at work and that, but, I don't know, I feel like it's been ages since we've hung out."

Taehyun nodded. "I know, sorry. I've had a lot on my plate recently, as you know," he said, gesturing to his head and referencing his power to read minds.

"I still can't quite believe that it's real, you know? Your 'power', I mean. You're like a superhero, or something," Yeonjun smiled, that familiar twinkle in his eye.

Taehyun laughed. "Not quite, hyung."

Yeonjun laughed along, staring at Taehyun, his face slowly changing into something sincere. "I've missed you. Not seeing you as much, it's been different, and I don't think I like it," he admitted.

The younger's heart warmed at the confession. "Hyung," Taehyun began, about to reply, before his eyes landed on Huening Kai's figure in the middle of the dancefloor, laughing and dancing and probably looking a little too drunk. Taehyun knew that if the youngest drank anymore, he'd wake up with an awful hangover tomorrow. "I think we should take Kai home," he said, pointing at Huening Kai.

Yeonjun looked over and couldn't help the fond chuckle that left his mouth. "I think you're right." He turned back to Taehyun. "Are you ready to go too?" Taehyun nodded in reply, they'd been out for a while now and the music was starting to give him a headache. "Okay," Yeonjun continued. "Wait here for me, I'll go get Kai."

Taehyun watched as Yeonjun got up and headed into the crowd. He wished he'd said more to the elder just now, that he missed him too, and he's scared because everything seems to be changing. There's so much he wanted to say to Yeonjun.

He wasn't left to dwell in his thoughts for too long however, as soon enough, Soobin and Beomgyu came bounding over.

"Taehyunnie," a slightly drunken Beomgyu squealed, sitting in the seat Yeonjun had just vacated and pulling the younger in for a hug. "I feel like I haven't seen you all night," he whined.

Taehyun laughed. "It's okay, hyung. You were too busy making out with your boyfriend somewhere." He laughed harder at the drunkenly embarrassed expression that overtook Beomgyu's features.

"We're actually gonna call it a night, Taehyunnie," Soobin interjected, smiling down at the younger. "Will you be alright getting home?"

Taehyun nodded. "Yeah. Me and Yeonjun are going to make sure Huening Kai gets home first, then call it a night too. I think I'm ready to just go home and sleep."

"Okay, Taehyunnie," Beomgyu started. "I'm spending the night at Soobin's tonight, so I'll see you some time tomorrow, okay?"

"Okay," Taehyun confirmed. "Get home safely you two," he said, as they all said their goodbyes, Yeonjun returning with Huening Kai just in time to see them off.

Taehyun saw Soobin whisper something to Yeonjun as the two said goodbye, something that made Yeonjun blush slightly before his eyes flickered to Taehyun.

"You ready to go?" Yeonjun asked Taehyun, he had an arm round Huening Kai to help keep the giggling youngest steady.

Taehyun nodded. "Sure." He paused for a moment. "What did Soobin-hyung say to you before he left?"

Yeonjun feigned ignorance. "Nothing important, roommate things."

Taehyun didn't push it. He also wasn't going to read Yeonjun's mind, not after he promised he wouldn't do so purposely.

The three left, riding the subway once again. It was a short journey, but Huening Kai still managed to fall asleep from where he was sat between the other two.

Taehyun stared ahead. He could see his reflection in the window from where he sat, and when he glanced over at Yeonjun's, he could see the elder looking at him through the glass. Yeonjun smiled, and Taehyun felt himself growing hot again. He hated how happy and fluttery both his body and mind became when Yeonjun was around.

Once they reached their stop, they woke up Huening Kai and began the short walk to his apartment. It was nearing Christmas, and so the festive lights helped guide their way in the darkness that the late hour was bringing.

Luckily, Huening Kai didn't live far from Taehyun, so omce they'd dropped him off, with a "thank you so much Yeonjunie-hyung and Taehyunnie," from the youngest, it was just the two of them.

Taehyun looked at Yeonjun. A sudden rush of confidence overcame him as he said his next thing. "It's getting pretty late, hyung," he began, a blush creeping its way onto his cheeks. "I know you're only a slightly further walk away from me, but if you want, you could stay at mine? I guess it saves you from accidentally walking in on Soobin and Beomgyu, or something," he tried to joke, voice trailing off.

Yeonjun smiled. "If you're sure, then that'd be nice," was his easy reply.

Taehyun nodded. "Okay then. Great." He awkwardly stood there as Yeonjun watched him fondly, the elder's hands slung in his pockets, looking effortlessly cool, while Taehyun looked anything but. "Let's go," Taehyun eventually said, wandering down the street and in the direction of his apartment.

You're cute when you're nervous.

"Lead the way," Yeonjun laughed, more to himself as he observed the loveliness that was Kang Taehyun.

***

The walk up to the apartment was quiet, as both of them were conscious of not trying to disturb any of the neighbours at the late hour.

Taehyun sighed when he eventually entered his home, taking off his shoes and jacket with Yeonjun following suit.

The two stood in the living room, unsure of what to say to fill the silence that had overtaken them. "Do you want anything to drink? Coffee? Tea? Water?" Taehyun eventually asked.

"Probably a little late for coffee," Yeonjun commented softly.

"I have decaf," Taehyun offered. "If you want?"

Yeonjun looked like he was mulling-over something in his head before he replied. "Okay then."

The two moved into the kitchen as Taehyun prepared the drinks.

"You know," Yeonjun began. "I still can't help but feel there's some awkwardness between us," he admitted. "Things just haven't felt the same since I found out about your power." He looked at Taehyun. "I really hate that."

"You hate my power?" Taehyun asked, voice vulnerable and unsure. He paused from making the coffee as he looked up at the elder.

Yeonjun shook his head. "No. I'd never hate anything about you." He stepped closer to Taehyun, the coffee forgotten on the side. "I just hate how you don't seem relaxed around me anymore." He shifted slightly closer. "I want to be the person who you feel most comfortable around, you know?" He moved even closer until there was hardly any space between them. "Even tonight, you seemed awkward around me, and I don’t like it." There was something vulnerable in his expression that made Taehyun want to reassure him, hold him tight and never let him go.

"Yeonjun," he whispered. He brought his hands up to cradle the elder's face. If Yeonjun wanted him to be confident, then Taehyun would be, only for Yeonjun he’d do that. "You're… amazing… in so many ways, I sometimes think I forget how to act around you." He noticed the ghost of a smile that formed on Yeonjun's lips at his words, and it encouraged him to keep going. "I don't think you realise how special you are to me, you know?" He smiled up at him. The two continued to stare at each other. Taehyun didn’t know what possessed him to do his next thing, maybe it was the late hour, or maybe it was simply Yeonjun, but before he knew it, he was angling his head up and catching Yeonjun's lips in a kiss, wanting nothing but to reassure the elder that he really cared for him, so so much.

This kiss was different to their previous ones. Those had been gentle, soft. This quickly turned desperate, as though everything they'd been feeling, all the ups and downs they'd been through recently, was put into this kiss.

Yeonjun deepened the kiss, opening his mouth and exploring Taehyun's own with his tongue, eliciting soft moans from the younger. Taehyun brought his hands up further into Yeonjun's hair, gently pulling and causing the elder to let out a groan. Yeonjun pulled away suddenly causing Taehyun to whine in frustration, only for the whines to turn into soft moans when Yeonjun started kissing his neck.

"You're so fucking beautiful," Yeonjun murmured against his skin.

"H-hyung," Taehyun whispered, head full of Yeonjun. It had felt like he'd been waiting so long for this.

Perfect.

"Hyung," Taehyun repeated. Yeonjun pulled away from his neck and leaned his forehead against Taehyun's.

"What is it, baby?" Yeonjun whispered, and Taehyun felt his heart flutter at the pet name.

"I want," Taehyun breathed, unable to get his words out clearly as he stared at Yeonjun's plump, red lips. "I want more. I want more of you. Please."

Yeonjun held eye contact. "Are you sure?"

Taehyun nodded desperately. "Please, hyung. Please. I want you. I need you." He grabbed onto Yeonjun, pulling the elder in for another kiss.

Yeonjun kissed him back. The elder had been dreaming of this moment for so long, a lot longer than Taehyun, he almost couldn't believe it was happening.

"Hyung, please," Taehyun whined as soon as their kiss broke. He wasn't sure what had suddenly happened, but all this desperation he had felt for Yeonjun the past few weeks, everything he'd been feeling, he couldn't hold himself back anymore. He grabbed Yeonjun's hands and began to pull the elder down the hall and towards his bedroom. Not once did the two break eye contact as they stared at each other with a mixture of everything they felt.

"Are you sure you really want this?" Yeonjun whispered as they entered Taehyun's bedroom.

Taehyun kissed him. A soft, gentle kiss. "I want this, Yeonjun. I want you." He didn't know if the two were moving too fast. Earlier tonight, he'd struggled at times to even hold eye-contact with the elder for too long, and now here they were, about to have sex.

Yeonjun smiled as he leaned his forehead against Taehyun's.

Good, cause I really want you too.

Their lips connected once more as they lost themselves in each other. Yeonjun helped to remove Taehyun's t-shirt, gently kissing along his shoulder as be breathed in the soft skin. Yeonjun's clothing was slowly discarded, Taehyun trailing his fingers and lips along the elder's toned chest and arms.

Their hands were nervous as they explored each other. Yeonjun laid Taehyun down on the bed before he moved on top of him, body hovering over the younger as he stared down at one of his most favorite people in the world, someone he felt so much love for.

Things continued to progress between the two. The rest of their clothing was discarded as the two lost themselves to the pleasure and each other. Taehyun was moaning loudly everytime Yeonjun moved inside of him, and Yeonjun groaned as he chased his climax. They were both a breathless and satisfied mess by the time they'd finished.

Once their breath had calmed, the two laid next to each other, Taehyun using Yeonjun's arm as a pillow as they kept close. The younger couldn't help but feel shy as Yeonjun stared at him with a soft smile on his face.

"Why are you being shy?" Yeonjun teased, the fond look never leaving his eyes.

Taehyun shifted closer, burying his face in Yeonjun's chest to hide from the elder's gaze. He felt a slight ache in his lower back as he moved which caused him to groan softly, a reminder of what they'd just done. The thought put a smile on his face.

"I didn't hurt you, did I, baby?" Yeonjun asked, voice soft as he kissed the younger's forehead.

"No, hyung." He nuzzled further into Yeonjun's neck. "I feel great actually."

The best sex you've ever had?

Taehyun whined in embarrassment. "Hyung!"

Yeonjun chuckled as he pulled Taehyun away from his neck so he could look at him. "Part of me can't actually believe this is real," he said softly.

Taehyun smiled. "I know, me too," he whispered.

Yeonjun gently took a hold of the younger's hand, lacing their fingers together. "What happens now, Taehyunnie?"

Taehyun looked at their connected hands. Yeonjun's were bigger than his, longer, wider. Though the smallest in their friendship group, Taehyun was tall. Despite this, other than his eyes, he had very petite features, something he used to hate. But seeing how much bigger Yeonjun was in all these different ways, it made Taehyun feel warm and safe, like Yeonjun could protect him from anything. "What do you want to happen?"

Yeonjun studied the younger who was looking at their hands. "I think you know what I want. It's what I've always wanted." He shuffled down the bed slightly so he was eye-level with the younger, causing Taehyun to stare into Yeonjun's eyes. "But I want to know about you."

Taehyun studied Yeonjun's face for a moment, before he leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on the elder's mouth. "I want you, Yeonjun," he confessed. "I want to be with you."

Yeonjun's face broke out into a smile. "Really?"

Taehyun laughed softly. "I'm really falling for you. Everything about you. And I hate how I was so blind to my feelings before I got this power." He took a deep breath. "When I first got this power, I didn't know if I liked it. And sometimes it's not nice knowing what everyone thinks. But," he shifted even closer so there was hardly any space between them. "This power brought me closer to you, and for that I'll be forever grateful."

Yeonjun wrapped his arm around Taehyun as he pulled him closer, their faces almost touching. "You want to know what Soobin told me at the bar? He said I should just be honest with you, no mind-reading games or anything, just me telling you how I feel." He looked straight in Taehyun's eyes as he spoke. "Power or not, I would have found a way for us to be together, if that's what you'd wanted. There was no way I was ever letting someone like you go," he whispered, so quietly that Taehyun almost didn't hear him.

I love you.

"Hyung," Taehyun breathed, moving even closer if that were possible.

"I do though," Yeonjun began, voice barely above a whisper. "I love you."

Taehyun kissed him. He hoped Yeonjun would receive everything Taehyun wanted to say, but couldn't find the words to, in that kiss.

They both continued to lay in each other's arms until the sound of their soft breaths lulled them into a deep and peaceful sleep.

Chapter 8: holiday season

Notes:

I really wanted to get this chapter out before Christmas, but life has been hectic, so enjoy some festive cheer in January and lots and lots of taejun fluff!

I don't think my writing's all that great in this chapter, but I just really wanted to post it, so hope you all enjoy! :)

Taehyun woke up to a small tickling sensation against the back of his neck. The feeling was soft and pleasant, and it would have been enough to send him back to sleep, if not for the voice that suddenly accompanied it.

"Are you awake, baby?"

The voice was low, clearly still filled with some sleep. It sounded soothing to Taehyun's ears for the early hour, the youngest thought.

Another tickle. It was only then Taehyun's brain registered that the tickling sensation were in fact small kisses being peppered across his skin.

"C'mon baby, open your eyes. I miss you," the voice whined softly.

Taehyun giggled in response. His brain started to awaken as he finally registered the warm body behind him, the ticklish breath hitting the back of his neck, and the toned arm that was snaked around him and pulling him into a strong chest. He also registered that the voice behind him was none other than Choi Yeonjun.

"Don't laugh at me, Taehyunnie. C'mon baby, wake up."

Taehyun breathed out another giggle, before he took pity on him and turned around. Yeonjun's expression was sleepy, and he was staring at Taehyun with a dopey smile plastered on his face.

"Morning, Taehyunnie," Yeonjun whispered, brushing hair out of the younger's face with his free hand. The elder's other arm was currently being used as a pillow by the youngest.

Taehyun hummed. "Morning, Yeonjunie," he replied. Yeonjun chuckled and Taehyun furrowed his eyebrows in sleepy confusion. "What?"

"It's just nice," Yeonjun admitted. "Hearing you call me 'Yeonjunie'."

"You call me 'Taehyunnie' all the time," Taehyun countered, pouting his lips.

"And I will continue to call you that," Yeonjun smiled, leaning closer and capturing Taehyun's lips with his own.

Taehyun moaned softly as their mouths moved against each other as they lazily made out. Taehyun pulled back, giggling when Yeonjun tried to chase his lips, and shuffled closer to snuggle into the elder's arms further. He paused when he felt something pressing against his leg and heard a small groan escape from Yeonjun's mouth. He pulled back and looked at Yeonjun with a small smirk. "Wow, you really enjoyed that kiss didn't you?"

Yeonjun blushed. "I can't help it. I've waited ages to have you lying next to me like this, how can my body not get excited when you look this good in the morning," he admitted.

It was Taehyun's turn to blush. Still, he had to admit that Yeonjun also looked unfairly attractive for the early morning. It made him feel a little hot too. "Well, should we do something about it?" He bit his lip shyly.

A smile slowly grew on Yeonjun's face. "Yeah?"

Taehyun nodded. "Yeah."

Yeonjun groaned at the thought, climbing on top of Taehyun until he was caging the younger in his arms. "Oh god, you're so fucking hot, Taehyun."

Taehyun giggled as Yeonjun kissed him, wrapping his arms around the elder's neck as he pulled him further down, their bodies flush together.

It almost seemed better than last night. They both weren't as nervous, and so were more eager to touch and explore the other's body. Taehyun couldn't help but whine everytime Yeonjun thrusted inside him, and Yeonjun couldn't help but groan whenever he felt Taehyun's hole tightening around him, pushing them both closer to release.

Once they were both finished, Yeonjun made quick work of tying the condom and throwing it in the trash, already desperate to go back to cuddling the younger. He was therefore slightly disappointed to see Taehyun sitting up and moving to the edge of the bed, stretching his arms in a yawn. However, Yeonjun could't be too disappointed, because he got to admire the younger's naked body when he stood up. There was that toned back, that slightly golden skin, and of course that petite waist that the elder had been holding mere minutes ago and was admittedly starting to drive Yeonjun a little crazy. It didn't stop there though, it was clear Taehyun worked out if his perky little ass was anything to go by, and then his long and slender legs that Yeonjun immediately wanted wrapped round him once again. Yes, Taehyun was beautiful, and here he was for no one else but Yeonjun's eyes only.

Taehyun slipped on an oversized hoodie and a pair of boxers, much to Yeonjun's dismay as he could no longer stare at the younger's naked form, before he was turning to look at the elder, oblivious to how Yeonjun had been internally worshipping his body mere seconds ago. He extended his hand out for the elder to take. "Want some breakfast?"

Yeonjun grabbed the offered hand and pulled slightly, causing Taehyun to almost fall on top of the elder. "I'd rather have you."

"Hyung, we've literally had sex twice in less that 24 hours," Taehyun blushed. "You're insatiable, you know that?"

Yeonjun shrugged, an easy smile playing on his lips. "Only with you," he whispered, leaning closer and planting a kiss on the younger's lips.

Taehyun moaned slightly, before abruptly pulling away. "C'mon, hyung, I'm hungry. We can do that… later."

Yeonjun chuckled, pecking his lips one more time before getting out of the bed, throwing on his own hoodie from last night, and heading out into the kitchen.

Taehyun immediately started making the coffee. Yeonjun leaned against the counter and watched him. "I don't have much in, hyung. So we've got limited options for breakfast," Taehyun began. "What would you like? Cereal, toast, ramyeon?"

Yeonjun shrugged. Normally he'd choose the ramyeon, he could eat it anytime and anywhere, but right now, he wasn't all that bothered, in too much of a state of euphoria to care. "Whatever you're having, Taehyunnie."

Taehyun poured them a bowl of cereal each, smiling at Yeonjun as he passed the bowl over to the elder.

The two ate their food and drunk their coffees in comfortable silence as they sat at the small kitchen table. Yeonjun, with his big appetite, was the first to finish. He stared at Taehyun as the younger finished eating.

"Hyung," Taehyun whined. "Stop staring at me."

Yeonjun chuckled as he wandered over to the younger. He lifted Taehyun to his feet and pulled him in for a kiss. "I can't help it."

You're beautiful.

Taehyun blushed, wrapping his arms around the elder and burrowing his face in the taller man's chest.

"I know things have been hard for you recently, with everything going on with your family," Yeonjun murmured. "So how about I take your mind off all that for today? Let's spend the day together. Just you and me."

Taehyun looked up at him. "Really? You really want to spend the whole day with me?"

Yeonjun smiled. "Of course I do." He nuzzled his cheek against the younger's hair. "The question is, do you want to spend it with me?"

Taehyun bit his lip. "Yeah," he replied shyly. The two have had sex twice now, but he still felt himself feeling slightly nervous when the elder was so affectionate with him.

"Good." Yeonjun pulled back slightly, taking hold of the younger's hands. "How about a shower and then we'll see where the day takes us?"

"Our shower's small, hyung. Are you really sure you want to do it together?" Taehyun asked.

"Oh, Taehyunnie," Yeonjun smiled. "Isn't it obvious," he chuckled, pulling the younger down the hall and in the direction of the bathroom, Taehyun giggling behind him.

***

Taehyun felt himself blushing as Yeonjun took hold of his hand, interlacing their fingers and giving the younger's a gentle squeeze.

The two were walking through a park. The sun was starting to set and they thought they'd make the most of the daylight while they still could.

After their shower, which may or may not have involved Yeonjun giving Taehyun an amazing handjob, and the younger returning the favor with what may have been the best blowjob of Yeonjun's life, the two had spent the day in the apartment not doing anything in particular. They'd watched the TV, cuddled together on the couch, ordered in some food for lunch, and had finally decided to end their day on a walk. Taehyun was almost scared how easy it was for him and Yeonjun to be so, like a couple. But it felt right, and Taehyun hadn't been able to stop smiling since the morning.

"What are you thinking about?" Yeonjun asked the younger, voice soft, trying not to disrupt the sounds of the peaceful outdoors around them.

"Nothing," Taehyun replied. He gave the elder's hand a squeeze of his own. "It's jusy crazy, how things can change so quickly. I mean, a week ago, we were sort of arguing, and now we're holding hands in our local park."

"No shit, Taehyunnie," Yeonjun giggled.

Taehyun laughed along. "You know what I mean though, hyung. Can you honestly say that one week ago you thought we'd be acting like, well, this?"

Yeonjun hummed. "No, not necessarily." He bit his lip. "But I've also been waiting for this for what feels like forever, so I guess I can't help but be really affectionate with you."

Taehyun's eyes softened as he walked closer to Yeonjun, cuddling into his side as they walked. "I know you have, hyung. And I like it. Us being like this with each other, it feels right."

That makes me really happy.

Taehyun smiled, but he also couldn't help but feel guilty that he had been oblivious to Yeonjun's feelings for all this time. "I'm sorry I was an idiot for so long. If I'd actually opened my eyes earlier and maybe asked you out or something, we wouldn't have wasted so much time," he muttered, voice quiet with a hint of sadness to it.

Yeonjun paused his walking, causing Taehyun to stop and look at him. Yeonjun looked directly into the younger's eyes as he spoke. "You don't have anything to be sorry for, Taehyun. I just loved being your friend, I loved seeing you everyday, getting to spend time with you. I have no regrets about the time we spent together." He smiled as be embraced Taehyun's face with his hands, pulling the younger closer. "Maybe I should have asked you out earlier, but here we are now. I can't say I have many regrets." He leaned in to kiss Taehyun, but the younger pulled away with an embarrassed flush on his face.

"Hyung," Taehyun began. "We are not going to be that couple who make out in public," he finished. "We're not Soobin anf Beomgyu," he added, causing Yeonjun to laugh and hold his hands up in surrender.

"Whatever you say, Taehyunnie."

Taehyun nodded, about to continue with the walk, when Yeonjun dragged him back and kissed him anyway, capturing Taehyun's squeals and giggles with his lips.

***

Taehyun couldn't fight his smile as he wandered up the steps to his apartment.

He couldn't believe everything that had happened with Yeonjun. A day ago, things had felt a little awkward, but now, they were sort of, a thing. He'd seen Yeonjun naked. Yeonjun had been inside him. Twice.

He quickly distracted his mind from the thought. Maybe it was Taehyun who was the insatiable one. He opened the door and was met with the sight of Beomgyu sitting on the couch playing on his phone.

"Hi, hyung."

Beomgyu looked up. "Taehyunnie! I was wondering where you were," he smiled.

Taehyun collapsed next to him on the couch. "Yeah, I went out for a walk. With Yeonjun-hyung."

Beomgyu squealed. "Okay, okay. Tell me what happened. When me and Soobin noticed Yeonjun didn't arrive at his apartment last night we thought something might be up," he began. "And when he texted Soobin that he wouldn't be coming home, we guessed he was you," Beomgyu finished, nudging Taehyun in the ribs. "So what happened?"

"Hyung," Taehyun whined, but the smile was still plastered on his face. "We spent the night together. Me and Yeonjun," he admitted.

Beomgyu squealed once more, excitement taking over his features as he tackled Taehyun in a hug. "You should have called me. Do you know how long we've all been waiting for this, Taehyunnie?" Beomgyu continued to speak excitedly as he asked the younger a list of questions. "Did you guys have sex? Was it like you'd imagined? Have you spent the whole day together?"

"Hyung," Taehyun laughed, cutting his best friend off. Beomgyu continued to stare at him, as if waiting for him to answer the questions. "Yes, we had sex, okay," Taehyun admitted blushing, giggling as Beomgyu hugged him once more.

The two eventually calmed down once Taehyun had managed to escape from Beomgyu's cuddles. The elder turned to smile at Taehyun. "I'm really happy for you though, Taehyunnie. Truly, if anyone deserves happiness, it's you."

Taehyun smiled back. "Thank you, hyung," he replied, leaning his head on the elder's shoulder, enjoying the ease and comfort he found whenever he was around his best friend.

In fact, Taehyun started to relax so much, that he found himself succumbing asleep, if not for Beomgyu's voice that suddenly brought him back to reality.

"So," Beomgyu asked, voice teasing but with a hint of curiosity. "What's Yeonjun-hyung like in bed?"

Taehyun definitely woke up at that question, a blush forming on his cheeks. "You can't just ask me things like that, hyung."

"Why not? I'm curious. He can talk the talk, we all know that, but is he actually any good?" Beomgyu continued.

Taehyun laughed. "If you must know, he's very good." He turned to look at Beomgyu. "And that's all you need to know," he finished, stopping any further questions the elder might have about Taehyun and Yeonjun's sex life.

***

Taehyun sighed as he entered the fairly empty office the following week on a Friday morning. It was the last day before everything shut down for Christmas, so he came in early to get a head start on some work he needed to finish before the holidays.

Him and Yeonjun hadn't spent too much time together since the weekend because of how busy they'd been at the office, especially with Yeonjun transferring jobs in the new year, it meant the elder had a lot to organize. Still, even though they were more often than not working through their lunch hour, Yeonjun still walked him home every evening. The elder would take his hand as they strolled through the streets of Seoul, and then they'd part ways with a kiss goodbye. Depsite having slept with Yeonjun, Taehyun still felt himself getting shy everytime the elder kissed him, like he was back to being a nervous teenager or something.

"Morning, Taehyunnie."

Taehyun smiled as he glanced up, recognising the voice instantly. "Morning, hyung," he replied as Yeonjun took his seat at his own desk.

"Busy day again, huh?" Yeonjun chuckled, taking a deep sigh as he turned on his computer.

Taehyun nodded. "Yep, you got that right."

Yeonjun sent him a soft smile that had Taehyun wondering how someone could be so attractive. "At least we can relax and enjoy the holidays after today," he assured, Taehyun smiling and humming in response.

The two didn't have time to say much more as the emails rolled in and the day got busier.

Both felt the stress continue to overtake them as their eyes stayed glued to their screens and they typed away at their desks. Before they knew it, the hours had passed and everyone started getting up and wishing each other a Merry Christmas. Taehyun glanced at the time, he hadn't even realised that work had finished. Where had the time gone? Luckily, he'd managed to finish everything he needed to so could relax and enjoy Christmas without worries of work plaguing his mind.

"You work too hard, you know that?"

Taehyun glanced up and saw Yeonjun smiling fondly at him. "You're no better, hyung," he retorted, albeit a little sassy, causing Yeonjun to let out a soft laugh.

The elder extended his hand out. "C'mon, Taehyunnie. Let's go home," he said softly.

Taehyun smiled as he shut everything off and put his coat on, taking Yeonjun's hand and relishing how nice it felt against his own.

"Hey, Taehyun," a voice called out.

Taehyun turned around to see Heeseung making his way over. He felt Yeonjun tense beside him, so squeezed the elder's hand in an act of comfort and reassurance. "Hi, Heeseung-hyung. How are you?"

Heeseung looked at Yeonjun and Taehyun's linked hands. He let out a small sigh, before glancing up at the two with a small but friendly smile. "I just wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas." He turned to Yeonjun. "Both of you."

Taehyun smiled. "You too, hyung. Have a lovely Christmas." He looked at Yeonjun and gave him a slight nudge.

Yeonjun sighed, but did as told. "Merry Christmas, Heeseung."

Heeseung seemed happy with the response. "Maybe we can all hang out in the new year?"

Taehyun nodded. "Of course, we're friends aren't we?"

Heeseung agreed. "Definitely." He stood there for a moment as he observed the couple in front of him for a moment.

I'm glad they look happy.

"I'll let you two get going," Heeseung eventually said, giving them a warm smile as he walked away and began packing his own desk up.

"You okay?" Taehyun asked once they were both outside, giving Yeonjun's hand a squeeze as they walked home.

Yeonjun nodded. "Yeah."

"Are you sure?" Taehyun pressed. "You're alright with me talking to Heeseung?"

"I'll never tell you who you can and can't speak to, Taehyun," Yeonjun reassured. He sighed. "Look, I don't really have a problem with Heeseung, he's a nice guy. If you guys want to be friends then I have no problem with it." He turned to Taehyun then, smirk plasered on his face. "Besides, he's not the one who gets to do this." And before Taehyun knew it, Yeonjun was leaning in and pulling him in for a kiss.

Taehyun giggled as Yeonjun started attacking his face with kisses. "Hyung," he squealed, breaking away from the elder and running down the street, Yeonjun laughing loudly behind him.

***

"Merry Christmas to you all," Beomgyu exclaimed, raising his glass as everyone followed and they did a group cheers.

Since Yeonjun and Taehyun had gotten home from work, Beomgyu was quick to call Soobin and Huening Kai over, so they could all have their own small Christmas party before they each headed home to their families for the holidays.

Taehyun most likely wasn't going to see them all until after the new year. He wanted to prioritise time with his family, with it most likely being his grandfather's last Christmas, and his friends being the perfect people that they were, were completely understanding and empathetic to the situation. Although now he was seeing Yeonjun, he was starting to maybe think it would have been nice to see the new year in with him.

"Merry Christmas," Soobin repeated, wrapping an arm around his boyfriend and pulling him close.

Taehyun looked around at his friends as they smiled and laughed with one another, he really wouldn't change them for the world.

What's got you thinking so hard?

Taehyun turned to see Yeonjun smiling at him, twinkle in his eye. He decided not to answer Yeonjun's question. "Merry Christmas, hyung," he whispered instead, wanting that twinkle to never leave Yeonjun.

Merry Christmas, Taehyunnie.

The group laughed and chatted together as the night continued. He was really going to miss not seeing his friends for a couple of weeks, from the kind-hearted Huening-Kai, the thoughtful Soobin, his absolute rock that was Beomgyu, and of course everything that was Yeonjun. Once the friends decided to call it a night, the late hour and cold winter's night meant no one fancied venturing home. It meant everyone had decided to stay the night at Taehyun and Beomgyu's apartment. Huening Kai took the couch, Soobin obviously went with Beomgyu, and Yeonjun followed Taehyun to his bedroom.

"I'll call you, or you can call me," Yeonjun whispered as the two layed in the younger's bed. "Anytime Taehyun, you know that. Whenever you want to talk, I'll be there."

Taehyun nodded. "I'm just being dramatic, I'm going to see you in a couple of weeks. I guess the soju's just got me feeling extra emotional or something," he joked.

Yeonjun chuckled, before leaning in and placing a soft kiss on the younger's lips. He took Taehyun's hand in his. "I get it though, even being away from you for a couple of days is going to feel weird." He kissed the hand he was holding gently. "But we've got so much time, Taehyunnie. Next year's going to be a great one, I just know it."

Taehyun nodded. "I know, hyung." He brushed a strand of hair out of Yeonjun's face. "All of you guys have been my rock this past year, I guess it's weird not seeing in the new one with you all."

The two contiued to lay there, enjoying each other's presence, before the sound of their soft chatter was sending them into a peaceful sleep, still tangled in each other's arms.

***

Christmas came and went pretty fast. Taehyun mostly spent it eating too much good food, watching movies, and chilling with his family. His grandfather was so happy, acting like he did every Christmas, that Taehyun had almost forgotten that he was even sick.

The days that followed were pretty good too. They went on family walks, his mother asking question after question about his love life, teasing him when he finally caved and said that yes, he was seeing someone.

"But it's still really early days," he added.

His mom smiled. "But you like him?"

Taehyun blushed. "Yes mom, I really like him."

His mother had been delighted that he had found someone he liked, and thankfully didn't tease him too much.

It was now New Year's Eve, and Taehyun was watching the TV's new year countdown sat on the couch with his parents and grandfather. His friends were attending a party, but like he'd told them, he wanted to spend this year with his family, given the fact that his grandfather wouldn't be around much longer. They didn't mind. Beomgyu and Soobin were probably already making out in the corner somewhere by now, Huening Kai would be drunk, and Yeonjun, probably dancing the night away. He'd messaged Taehyun earlier to wish him a Happy New Year, and saying that he was going to really miss the younger tonight, which warmed Taehyun’s heart.

It was about an hour to midnight, and the family were sitting together, drinking wine and reminiscing about the lovely Christmas they'd shared, when they were interrupted by a knock at the door.

"Who could that be? On New Year's Eve as well," Taehyun's father groaned, standing up and leaving the living room to go answer the door in the hall.

"Who is it?" Taehyun's mother called out.

Taehyun looked up to see his father entering the living room. His eyes widened when he saw who had shuffled in behind him.

Choi Yeonjun.

"Oh, Yeonjun it's so good to see you," his mother rushed over, pulling in Yeonjun for a large hug. The two had met a few times when his parents had come over to his and Beomgyu's apartment and all his friends had been there. At the time, Taehyun used to find it irritating and annoying how taken his mom seemed with Yeonjun. Now, he found it pretty nice.

"You too, Mrs. Kang," Yeonjun replied, smiling politely at her.

"Are you here for Taehyun?" She turned to her son, giving him a smile as if she'd worked out who this 'mystery man' who he 'really likes' and was talking about only a few days earlier.

Taehyun stood up, cheeks pink with embarrassment as he pulled Yeonjun out into the hall, away from his family's prying eyes. "I need to talk to hyung quickly," he announced, closing the door on the living room so his parents couldn't eavesdrop.

Once it was just them two, Yeonjun gave him a warm smile.

"Wha- how- why are you here?" Taehyun asked. "You should be at a party," he finished, voice clearly confused.

Yeonjun chuckled. "I wanted to see the new year in with you," he admitted, shrugging his shoulders like it was obvious.

"But, my family's here," Taehyun said.

Yeonjun furrowed his brows, voice soft as he spoke. "Do you not want them to know we're together or-"

"No, that's not what I meant," Taehyun interrupted. "It's just, you'd spend it with me and my family, watching TV, instead of at a party with all of our friends?"

Yeonjun chuckled once more. "Well the person I want to be there the most isn't. So, yeah. I guess I'd rather be here."

Taehyun blushed, but he couldn't fight his smile. "We could have just facetimed," he offered lamely. He giggled when Yeonjun sent him an unimpressed look. "But I am really happy you're here," he admitted, leaning upwards and capturing Yeonjun's lips in a soft kiss.

It was then that Taehyun's father decided to enter the hallway, cheeks blushing a furious red when he saw his son locking lips.

"Uh, sorry boys, just grabbing a refill before midnight strikes," he muttered, gesturing to his empty glass as he awkwardly shuffled into the kitchen.

Taehyun felt as embarrassed as his father appeared to be, like he was some teenager who was caught doing something he shouldn't. However, that embarrassment quickly turned to annoyance when he saw the smirk Yeonjun was wearing. "Oh, shut up," he muttered, though his voice held no real heat. Yeonjun couldn't help but laugh at how cute he was.

The two eventually moved back into the living room. Yeonjun settled well into the family, laughing and joking with everyone, even Taehyun's grandfather. It made Taehyun smile.

As the clock struck midnight, Taehyun felt Yeonjun's hand reach for his, giving it a gentle squeeze.

"Happy New Year," his family cheered in unison.

Happy New Year, Taehyunnie.

Taehyun turned to look at him, a soft smile on his face. "Happy New Year, hyung," he whispered, so quietly for only Yeonjun to hear. "I think it's going to be a good one."

Chapter 9: goodbyes

"Hyung, you know I go to the gym, right? I'm more than capable of carrying my own things," Taehyun huffed, watching as Yeonjun walked ahead of him with Taehyun's bag slung over his shoulder, while also wheeling the younger's suitcase in his hand.

"I want to help, Taehyunnie," Yeonjun whined. “This is what chivalrous guys do.”

“Yes…” Taehyun agreed. “But I’m not some damsel in distress,” he argued.

Yeonjun rolled his eyes, chucking to himself. “No, but you’re my damsel in distress.”

Taehyun shook his head, not really understanding what the elder meant. They were close to Taehyun's apartment block, and Yeonjun had insisted on carrying all of Taehyun's luggage since they'd left his parents house, both on the subway and on the streets outside.

Yeonjun had ended up staying over for New Year, spending the day with Taehyun and his family. He'd then gone back home in the late evening, while Taehyun enjoyed a few more days alone with his parents and grandfather. Yeonjun had arrived earlier that day to pick him up, as work started up again on Monday, and they wanted to have the weekend together to relax.

Yeonjun suddenly dipped inside the apartment block. Taehyun had been so busy daydreaming, he hadn't even noticed they'd arrived.

"You've got to be fucking joking."

Taehyun laughed at Yeonjun's annoyed tone. It was only when he peeked behind the elder's shoulder to see the giant 'OUT OF ORDER' sign stuck on the elevator, that he understood why Yeonjun sounded so annoyed. "It's okay, hyung." Taehyun grabbed his suitcase, and was about to grab his bag off Yeonjun, when the elder stopped him.

"No, no, I can manage. I go to the gym too," Yeonjun huffed.

Taehyun laughed. "Yeah, but it's heavy. I'll just take it, we all know I'm in better shape than you, hyung,” he teased.

Yeonjun suddenly smirked, stepping closer to Taehyun. His free hand started travelling down the younger's back slowly, until it landed on his ass. "You sure about that, Taehyunnie? You're the one who's always left breathless whenever..."

...I'm inside you, making you moan out my name.

"Hyung," Taehyun exclaimed, voice growing higher in pitch. "Okay, fine," Taehyun blushed, batting Yeonjun's hands away from where it had found home on Taehyun's ass. "If you're going to think those thoughts here in a public place, then you can carry it." He handed the suitcase back to Yeonjun, before quickly stalking up the stairs and leaving the elder behind.

Yeonjun's laughter could be heard all the way up the stairs. "Oh, c'mon baby. I was only joking. Sort of."

Taehyun huffed, but he couldn't stop the smile that made it's way onto his face.

***

"Taehyunnie!"

As soon as he entered the apartment, Taehyun smiled as he was greeted by the sight of Beomgyu running over to him, arms outstretched for a hug.

"Hi, hyung," Taehyun smiled, hugging the elder back.

Beomgyu suddenly pulled away, his brows furrowing as he looked over Taehyun's shoulder. "Where's Yeonjun-hyung? Didn't he pick you up?"

Taehyun nodded, walking further into the apartment and collapsing onto the couch. "He was being an ass, trying to show off, so he's carrying the bags."

Beomgyu chuckled, joining the younger on the couch. "Ah, hyung's back to being an annoying ass, is he?"

"Who's being an annoying ass?"

Taehyun jumped at the voice behind him. He turned to see Soobin who had just walked out of the bathroom.

"Yeonjun,' Beomgyu supplied, extending his arm out for his boyfriend to take. Soobin did, sitting on Beomgyu's other side and wrapping his arm around the latter's shoulders, pulling him closer.

"Of course he is," Soobin chuckled. He smiled at Taehyun. "How was the family, Taehyunnie? You're grandfather okay?"

Taehyun nodded. "Yeah, really good. Grandpa seemed happy, it was nice to spend time with him," he smiled.

Just then, Yeonjun came in, a sheen of sweat covering his face as he dropped the bags to the floor.

"You good, bro?" Soobin laughed, but being the nice friend he was, he wandered over to help the elder, pulling the bags further into the apartment.

Yeonjun noticed Taehyun on the couch, and stood up a little straighter, trying not to appear tired even if that's how he currently felt. "Yeah, fine. Never better."

Taehyun and Beomgyu shared a look before both of them burst out laughing, clearly seeing right through the lie.

"Right," Beomgyu announced, standing up and shooing the two eldest away, closer to the door. "Me and Taehyunnie have lots to catch up on, so you two have to go now."

Yeonjun pouted, throwing a glance to Taehyun. "But-"

"Relax, Romeo," Beomgyu replied, rolling his eyes. "You two will most likely see each other at some point this weekend, I'm sure you can part for one evening."

Yeonjun's pout deepened, and Taehyun couldn't help but think he looked so cute. He stood up and walked over to the elder, looping his arms around his neck and pulling him into a soft kiss. "I'll miss you, hyung," he whispered, knowing just how much it would make Yeonjun melt.

God, I love you.

Yeonjun smiled, leaning down, about to kiss Taehyun once more, when he was grabbed by his hoodie and pulled out of the younger's arms.

"God, you guys are so dramatic," Soobin muttered under his breath. "Let's go, hyung. Like Beomgyu said, they have lots to catch up on.”

Yeonjun scoffed. "Like you're any better when it comes to Beomgyu," he argued, though there was no real heat to his voice.

After a quick goodbye between the couples, Beomgyu and Taehyun found themselves alone. The two chatted, catching each other up on their Christmas and New Year, only pausing to quickly cook something for dinner.

"So did Yeonjun get along well with your family?" Beomgyu asked, slurping up his noodles.

Taehyun nodded. "Yeah, I mean he was only really around for New Year, but they liked him. Especially my mom, god, I actually think she might have a crush on him."

It was true. Taehyun had seen his mom laughing at something Yeonjun said numerous times, always asking if he was hungry, or if he wanted something to drink. And it once would have annoyed him, but now Taehyun simply found it nice seeing them get along with each other so well.

Beomgyu laughed. "Wow, so you guys have the same type then, huh?"

Taehyun rolled his eyes, before shoving a bite of his own noodles into his mouth. "I wish me and Yeonjun-hyung could have spent a bit more time together though. I mean, he starts his new job on Monday, so I won't see him as much. And January's always stressful at the office."

Beomgyu cooed. "Look at you. Who knew you'd be so in love already." Taehyun didn't reply, and Beongyu's eyes widened. "Wait, you're in love with Yeonjun?"

Taehyun shrugged. "I don't know. Maybe not right now, but I don't think it's long before I'm there." He sighed. "Even before we got together, I know I always complained about him, and god, he used to annoy me so much, and sometimes he still does. But," he smiled. "I can't think of a time of knowing him when he wasn't there for me. Whenever I needed someone, he was there, he’s always been there. And I used to think what I did to deserve someone like that in my life."

"Gosh, Taehyunnie," Beomgyu smiled, fanning his eyes dramatically. "You're going to make me cry."

Taehyun shoved his best friend playfully. "It's true. I think it about all of you. But Yeonjun is..."

"Different," Beomgyu finished. "Trust me Taehyun, I get it."

It's the same with me and Soobin.

Taehyun smiled, taking Beomgyu's hand in his and giving it a squeeze. Beomgyu's eyes suddenly turned teasing. "I mean, it must help that Yeonjun's super cute too, right?"

"Oh shut up, hyung."

***

Taehyun couldn't hold back his moan as he felt Yeonjun move inside of him.

They were at the younger's apartment. Yeonjun had come around in the evening so they could spend the night together. They'd had dinner, watched a bit of TV, and before they knew it, one thing led to another and they’d ended up in Taehyun's bedroom.

He closed his eyes at the rush of pleasure that suddenly filled him, his moans growing higher and louder in pitch. Thank god Beomgyu was at Soobin's for the night.

You're so beautiful.

Taehyun opened his eyes to see Yeonjun hovering over him, his face so close as he looked down at Taehyun with so much fondness. Taehyun couldn't resist angling his head up slightly to capture Yeonjun's lips in his own, their mouths moving together as they continued to chase their pleasure.

"I'm so close, hyung," Taehyun whined when they pulled back.

"Me too, baby," Yeonjun groaned, speeding up.

The elder buried his face in Taehyun's neck, picking up his pace, and it wasn't long before they were both reaching their climax.

"Fuck," Yeonjun panted in Taehyun's ear, collapsing on top of the younger once they had both finished.

Taehyun wrapped his arms around Yeonjun's shoulders, having a sudden desire to hold the elder. He gently traced his fingers up and down Yeonjun’s back.

Yeonjun laughed softly. "That tickles," he said.

Taehyun smiled, angling his head to the side, forcing Yeonjun to remove his own from the crook of the younger's neck so they could simply look at each other.

Yeonjun sent him a dopey smile. "How was it, Taehyunnie?"

"Really good," Taehyun replied, smiling as he leaned in to kiss Yeonjun.

The two made out for a while, a few giggles and smiles thrown in. Yeonjun eventually moved from on top of Taehyun to lay next to him, opening his arms out as an invitation to cuddle, which Taehyun accepted without hesitation.

"So how about dinner after work on Monday? To celebrate my new job and all," Yeonjun asked.

"Sure, hyung," Taehyun replied, resting his head against Yeonjun's chest. "Are you excited?"

"I think so," Yeonjun started. "I mean, it's going to be great having more money, and I think the job itself should be good." He gently pulled Taehyun upwards until the two were lying face-to-face. "I'll miss working with you though," he smiled.

"We'll still see each other a lot, hyung. It's the same company, after all," Taehyun reassured. "Plus, probably best to not work with someone you're dating." His expression turned teasing. "How would you focus on your work with me right there? Especially now you've seen me naked, you'd be so distracted."

Yeonjun smirked, shifting closer. "Who says I didn't picture you naked before?"

Taehyun's teasing smile dropped as he blushed. "Hyung! Seriously? Have you actually done that?"

Yeonjun shrugged. "I may have, once or twice."

Taehyun laughed, playfully punching Yeonjun's chest. The elder caught his hand, bringing it up to his mouth and softly kissing it.

Taehyun smiled as he watched the action, feeling a large amount of affection for the elder. His body started to relax, and he began to feel fatigue overtake him.

"Let's sleep, Taehyunnie," Yeonjun whispered, placing a soft kiss to Taehyun's lips.

Taehyun hummed, moving closer and snuggling into the elder's chest. "Good night, hyung."

Yeonjun chuckled. "Night, Taehyunnie."

***

Taehyun continued to send glances at Yeonjun. The two were in the elevator on the way up to the office. Except this time, Yeonjun would be getting out first. It was Yeonjun's first day at his job, and Taehyun could practically see the elder's nerves. He'd been hearing his thoughts all morning too.

Take a breath, Yeonjun. It's all going to be okay.

Taehyun sighed fondly. He gently took Yeonjun's hand in his and gave it a squeeze.

"You'll be fine, hyung," he whispered.

Yeonjun squeezed back. He turned to Taehyun and smiled, though the nerves were still clearly written all over his face.

Then, the elevator opened. Yeonjun took a breath. Taehyun stood on his tiptoes and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek.

"I promise," Taehyun smiled, as he pulled back. Yeonjun returned it, before stepping out of the elevator and throwing one last glance at Taehyun.

Thanks, Taehyunnie. I love you.

The elevator closed. Taehyun felt his smile grow. Yeonjun had been saying, or rather thinking, 'I love you' a lot recently. And after Taehyun's conversation with Beomgyu, Taehyun had come to the realisation that maybe, he loved Yeonjun just a little bit too.

Lost in his thoughts, he was arriving at his own floor before he knew it, stepping out of the elevator and into the office. He cast a glance at Yeonjun's empty desk, and a sigh escaped him, he was really going to miss working with the elder. Still, now they were together, it certainly softened the blow.

Once Taehyun had sat down at his desk, he heard an awkward cough behind him. He turned to see Heeseung stood there.

"Hyung, hi," Taehyun smiled. "Did you have a good Christmas? A good new year?"

Heeseung returned the smile. "Yeah it was nice, it was just good to relax really. You?"

Taehyun nodded. "Yeah, it was nice." He glanced around the office. "In a way though, it's nice to be back, have some normality again."

Heeseung chuckled. He looked towards Yeonjun’s empty desk. “How’s Yeonjun feel about his first day downstairs?”

Taehyun smiled softly. “He’s a little nervous, but he’s going to do amazing.”

Heeseung nodded. “That’s good.” He continued to stand there awkwardly, like there was something else he wanted to say.

“You okay, hyung?” Taehyun asked.

“Yeah, it’s just…” Heeseung sighed. “I meant what I said before Christmas. I’d love to hang out with you, and Yeonjun as well. It’s just, I don’t have many friends from work, and I’ve come to realise, that maybe… I’d kinda like them.”

Taehyun’s eyes softened at Heeseung’s admission. “Of course we can hang out. It will be my birthday next month, and I know Beomgyu’s already planning a party, I definitely would want you to be there, hyung.”

Heeseung smiled, a bright, genuine smile. “Thanks, Taehyun. That means a lot.” He looked back over to his desk. “I guess I should really start doing some work now, hey?”

Taehyun giggled. “I’ll talk to you later,” he said, watching as Heeseung headed back over to his own desk.

Taehyun glanced around the office. It was exactly the same as when he’d left before the holidays, yet it all felt so different. Wooyoung was still at the same desk, as was Heeseung, and Yunjin. He looked over at Yeonjun’s empty desk once more, and knew that someone like Yeonjun was going to be completely irreplaceable.

***

“So it was a good first day then?” Taehyun asked as him and Yeonjun walked through the streets of Seoul. They’d just finished work, and were currently heading in the direction of some popular restaurants where they could grab some food. Taehyun had his arm linked through Yeonjun’s, using the elder’s body heat to keep him warm.

“It was,” Yeonjun answered. “I met my new team, and they all seem great. I’m feeling really positive about it all.”

“That’s great, hyung”, Taehyun smiled. “I’m so happy for you.”

Yeonjun grinned back. “I already miss working with you though,” he winked. “It was strange looking up and not seeing you sat at your desk.”

“Same here,” Taehyun agreed, squeezing Yeonjun’s arm affectionately.

They arrived at the street filled with restaurants, immediately being hit with delicious smells from all angles.

“So what do you fancy?” Yeonjun began. “Meat? Fish? Noodles?”

Taehyun hummed, thinking. “I don’t know, I-“

Ring. Ring. Ring.

Taehyun pulled his phone out, muttering an apology to Yeonjun. “Sorry, hyung. It’s my mom. I better take this.”

“Of course, Taehyunnie,” Yeonjun agreed, looking back towards the restaurants to give the younger some privacy.

“Hey, mom?” Taehyun spoke into the phone.

“Taehyun? Are you there, darling?”

Taehyun’s heart sped up at his mother’s panicked tone. “Yeah, mom. I’m here. What’s wrong? Has something happened to grandpa?”

He heard his mom break down in tears on the phone.l, and his heart sank.

“Oh, darling. His health took a really bad turn. He’s been taken to hospital. The doctor’s have said he might only have a couple of hours left.”

Taehyun felt the tears well up in his eyes immediately. “What?”

Yeonjun’s attention immediately went back to Taehyun after hearing such a devastated sound from the younger. He was quick to gently wipe away a tear that was trailing down Taehyun’s cheek.

“I’m so sorry, darling. It might be best if you come to the hospital. I think it might be time to finally say our goodbyes.”

Taehyun nodded quickly, exchanging his own goodbyes with his mother and a promise of seeing her soon. He looked up at Yeonjun, the tears still falling. “Hyung,” he whispered. “I need to go to the hospital. My grandpa, I need to see him.”

Yeonjun shushed him, pulling Taehyun in for a hug. “Shh, it’s okay, Taehyunnie. Let’s go to the hospital, okay?”

Taehyun didn’t remember much of how he got to the hospital. He vaguely remembered Yeonjun calling a taxi, the elder gently holding him, but all he was sure about was that Yeonjun was there. And Taehyun realised that he loved the man next to him so very much.

***

It was a weird experience saying goodbye to his grandfather. He looked so old, so frail, more than Taehyun had ever seen him before. He was lying there asleep, no longer able to talk or even open his eyes without feeling utter exhaustion.

His parents and Yeonjun were outside, giving him a moment of privacy so he could say his goodbyes.

Taehyun took hold of his grandfather’s hand, squeezing it gently to know he was there.

“I’m going to miss you so much, grandpa,” Taehyun said, despite his grandfather being unresponsive. “And I really wish you didn’t have to leave me. How am I supposed to live without you?”

His grandfather didn’t reply, and that only made Taehyun cry harder. He’d give anything to have one last conversation with him.

Don’t cry, Taehyun. My gorgeous boy, I don’t want you to cry over me.

Taehyun’s head snapped up. His grandfather was still there. He could still hear him. “Grandpa? Grandpa I can hear you.

Huh? Really? Well… maybe I really have gone crazy. If you can hear me, I want you to know that I’m happy. I’ve lived a good and long life, I’ve had a beautiful daughter, and now a beautiful grandson. What more could I want?

“I still don’t want you to go,” Taehyun sobbed. “I’m not ready to say goodbye.

It’s okay, Taehyun. You are ready. You’ve got so much more life to live, and you’re going to do so many amazing things. And I’ll be watching over you every step of the way.

Taehyun cried harder. “I love you, grandpa. I love you so much.”

I love you, Taehyun. I’ll always be with you. But now, it’s time to say goodbye. I don’t think I can hold on much longer…”

Taehyun shook his head in denial. His grandfather’s thoughts were getting harder to hear, more distant. “No, no, grandpa, please.” He looked towards the door. “Mom? Dad? Please we need a doctor, grandpa’s not responding.”

His parents rushed in with Yeonjun, a doctor right behind them. The doctor quickly checked his grandfather, before a sad sigh escaped him.

“I’m very sorry,” the doctor said quietly.

Taehyun shook his head. “No, no, check again,” he pleaded, not wanting to accept the reality that his grandfather had gone.

His parents watched on, his mother crying as his father did his best to comfort her. Yeonjun was at Taehyun’s side in an instant, shushing the younger as he wrapped him up in his arms, his own tears threatening to fall.

“I’m so sorry, Taehyunnie,” he whispered, kissing his temple. “I’m so, so sorry.”

Taehyun continued to cry, burying his face into Yeonjun’s chest. He always knew this moment was coming, but it didn’t make it hurt any less. All Taehyun felt was utterly helpless in that moment.

Notes:

Hellooo!!! It’s been a very long time since I’ve updated this story, but I recently finished my other fic (a Love Island taejun/soogyu au), and thought I’d try and finish this one. I think my writing has improved quite a lot since I first started writing this, but I’m going to try and finish it as I hate leaving a story unfinished.
If you’re still here reading this, then I hope you enjoy this chapter! This story probably only has about one chapter left anyway, and I’m hoping to finish it soon!!! I’ve got more fic ideas so I’m trying to wrap up all of my old work!
See you in the next (and probably last) chapter <3

Chapter 10: love

Taehyun had woken up with his eyes swollen and puffy, a proof of all the crying that had taken place the day before.

After his grandfather had passed, Taehyun had shared a tearful goodbye with his parents as they left the hospital. They’d offered to take him home with them, back to the family house, but he’d really wanted to be alone. He’d hugged his mom and dad goodbye, before eventually leaving with Yeonjun.

“I’m just going to go back and sleep, hyung,” Taehyun had said on the subway ride home, still feeling very tearful and emotional. “You don’t have to come with me.”

“I know,” Yeonjun had replied, wrapping an arm around Taehyun as he dropped a kiss to his head. “But I really don’t want to leave you alone tonight, baby.”

Taehyun hadn’t fought the elder. Deep down, he’d wanted Yeonjun to stay with him too.

They entered Taehyun’s apartment, flicking the lights on. It was exactly how Taehyun had left it in the morning before he’d left for work, and yet in the span of one day, everything had changed. Now, Taehyun’s grandfather was no longer around.

“Is Beomgyu here?” Yeonjun asked softly.

Taehyun shook his head. “No, he’s staying with Soobin tonight.”

“Want me to call him? Let him know what’s happened?” Yeonjun asked, taking hold of Taehyun’s hand and dropping a soft kiss on top of it.

“No, it’s okay. I’ll tell him when I see him tomorrow,” Taehyun said.

Yeonjun nodded, gently guiding the younger towards the bedroom. “Go take a shower, baby. I’ll order us some food, you must be starving.”

Taehyun nodded, even though he didn’t have much of an appetite at all. He’d been ready for dinner earlier when him and Yeonjun were in town, but the thought of food currently made him feel nauseous.

His body worked on autopilot as he headed for the bathroom, standing under the shower while he tried to keep his tears at bay. He wasn’t very successful though, and ended up sobbing like he’d done in the hospital room only hours prior.

When he exited the bathroom in his oversized hoodie and boxers, eyes red and swollen, Yeonjun was quick to pull him into a hug.

“Shh, you’re okay, I’ve got you,” he soothed.

Taehyun trembled as he tried to stop his tears. “I- I feel so sad, hyung,” he admitted.

“Of course you do,” Yeonjun cooed. “You’ve just said goodbye to your grandfather, everything you’re feeling is completely normal,” he comforted. “Just let it out, baby.”

And Taehyun did. After about half an hour of Yeonjun’s comforting whispers and large hands holding him close, he finally calmed himself down. He even managed to finish half of the soup that Yeonjun had ordered for him, and admittedly, it did make him feel a lot better. They didn’t talk while they ate, Yeonjun would simply send him soft smiles, and Taehyun would try and muster his own one back.

“Right, I’m going to quickly shower too. I’ll be back in a moment, baby,” Yeonjun whispered as they made their way into the younger’s bedroom.

Taehyun hummed, signalling he’d heard, before sliding under the sheets as he waited while the elder showered. Eventually, Yeonjun came back, shirtless but still wearing his boxers. He slid into the bed next to Taehyun and pulled the younger closer. Taehyun snuggled further into Yeonjun’s chest, noting how his skin was still slightly damp.

“I read his mind,” Taehyun suddenly whispered.

“Hmm?” Yeonjun asked softly.

“Grandpa… he couldn’t talk, he couldn’t even open his eyes, but I read his mind,” Taehyun said. “He said goodbye to me through his thoughts, I heard them.”

“That’s amazing, baby. You got to say goodbye to him,” Yeonjun soothed. “It must have been a very special moment.”

“It was,” Taehyun agreed. “And I thought getting to say goodbye would make it easier, but…” he trailed off. “It still hurts.”

“You loved him so much,” Yeonjun whispered. “Losing the ones we love is never an easy thing to have to go through, Taehyunnie,” he said, dropping a kiss to Taehyun’s head.

Taehyun closed his eyes, breathing in Yeonjun’s scent. He remembered the elder telling him once about when he’d lost his grandmother. He’d been thirteen, his grandmother had been sick, and then one day, she just wasn’t there anymore. Yeonjun had been so sad when it happened, but as time passed, he started to feel better.

“But I’m here, and I’ll continue to be here every step of the way,” Yeonjun continued.

“Thank you, hyung,” Taehyun replied softly, meaning every word. He was so so grateful for the elder. He was also feeling less tearful now, more tired than anything. “I can’t imagine my life without you in it, you know?”

And then Taehyun closed his eyes, falling asleep almost immediately, not being able to stay awake for Yeonjun’s reply. He didn’t notice how his words had affected the elder, how Yeonjun couldn’t fight his smile as he held the most precious boy he knew in his arms even closer.

***

And then morning came. Taehyun was uncaring that his eyes were swollen and his hair was a mess as he stared at himself in the mirror. His heart hurt for his grandfather, and he didn’t care what he looked like, and he knew Yeonjun didn’t care either.

That was the thing about the elder. They’d known each other for a while, and Taehyun didn’t feel like he ever had to impress Yeonjun. In many ways, the elder was the best person Taehyun could have dated, because he felt so relaxed and comfortable in himself when he was around him.

“Hey, Taehyun?”

Taehyun turned to see Yeonjun stood in the doorway. He offered Taehyun a warm smile. “Breakfast is ready? You feeling up for it?”

The truth was, Taehyun didn’t have much of an appetite this morning either, but he knew Yeonjun had put a lot of effort into it. The elder didn’t have to do anything, he did it simply because he wanted to cheer Taehyun up.

“Sure,” came Taehyun’s soft reply. He followed Yeonjun into the kitchen, sitting down where a bowl of fruit awaited him.

“I wasn’t sure if you’d fancy much,” Yeonjun started. “So I hope that’s okay?”

Taehyun managed a smile. “It’s perfect, hyung. Thank you. I appreciate everything you’re doing, and I’m sorry I’m not the best person to be around right now-“

“No, don’t ever say that,” Yeonjun interjected. “You’re grieving, Taehyunnie. I understand, it’s hard, I know.”

Taehyun nodded. “I still appreciate it,” he added, unable to help himself.

Yeonjun breathed out a faint chuckle, watching as Taehyun began picking up his fruit. “What time does Beomgyu usually get back?” Yeonjun asked.

Taehyun shrugged. “He’s not working today, probably in an hour or so,” he replied.

“Okay,” Yeonjun nodded. “Do you want me to take the day off with you? I can call in sick or-“

Taehyun shook his head immediately. “No, hyung, absolutely not. You’ve just started your new job. I’ll be fine. I’m going to call the office in a minute and tell them what’s happened, and that I won’t be in today,” he said. “But you have to go, you’re not missing work because of me.”

Yeonjun looked torn. “But I don’t want to leave you when you’re sad.”

“Like I said, Beomgyu will be back soon,” Taehyun said. He stood up, pulling the elder in for a hug. “I’ll be okay,” he promised.

Yeonjun inhaled Taehyun’s scent, smelling the faint traces of shampoo.

I love you.

Taehyun smiled to himself. “Come see me after work, yeah?”

Yeonjun nodded. “Of course I will,” he whispered. “Whenever you want me, I’ll be there.”

***

Yeonjun sighed as he packed up his things. It had been a hard day, his brain too focused on thinking about Taehyun to actually think about work. Luckily, his boss had been understanding when Yeonjun had told him about the situation, which made him feel like a small weight had been lifted off his shoulders.

Taehyun had texted him around lunchtime, assuring him that he was okay and that Beomgyu was being a good support. Yeonjun had smiled, happy that the younger had people who cared about him.

Yeonjun rode the elevator down, already eager to get back to Taehyun’s apartment. He was thinking about what food he should pick up for dinner, and was about to step out of the elevator, when his body collided with someone.

“Woah, I’m so sorry I-“ Yeonjun started, cutting himself off when he saw none other than Lee Heeseung staring at him.

“Yeonjun, hey?”

Yeonjun nodded. “Hey.” The two of them weren’t necessarily friends, but Yeonjun had more or less agreed to be civil and polite to the other for Taehyun’s sake.

Heeseung scratched the back of his neck awkwardly. “I, um, noticed Taehyun wasn’t in today? Is everything okay? It’s really weird for him not to be in, he never takes a day off.”

Yeonjun sighed. “He got some bad news… about his grandfather. It’s a pretty tough time for him at the moment.”

Heeseung’s eyes widened. “Oh really? Oh, I’m so sorry. Please tell him that I’m thinking of him.”

Yeonjun nodded. “I will.” He turned, ready to carry on with his journey home, before Heeseung’s voice stopped him once more.

“Me and Taehyun are just friends, you know?”

Yeonjun turned to look back at Heeseung. “I know,” he said, because he did. Taehyun had told Yeonjun he wanted the two of them to be together, he knew that Taehyun was his, and he was Taehyun’s.

“Good,” Heeseung smiled softly. “Because… I like him, but I see how he is with you, and there’s no way I’d ever want to come between that.” He walked over to Yeonjun, extending his hand out and inviting the elder to shake it. “So please, can we stop all of this awkwardness, and say we’re friends.”

Yeonjun stared at the offered hand for a moment, before a smile slowly spread across his face. He shook the hand, because how could he ever refuse someone who only had Taehyun’s best interests at heart. “Friends,” he agreed.

Heeseung nodded. “Please, give Taehyun my best.”

“I will,” Yeonjun agreed.

He walked away, and this time, he didn’t stop. He had to go home, to Taehyun’s apartment, because wherever the younger was, that was where Yeonjun wanted to be.

***

Over the next few days, Taehyun slowly started to feel better.

He’d woken up on the day of the funeral with mixed feelings. Of course, he was still absolutely devastated that his grandfather was finally being laid to rest, but the whole situation had also made him grateful for the people in his life.

When Taehyun had told Beomgyu what had happened, the elder had been nothing but comforting. He sat with Taehyun for the rest of the day, pulling him close as they watched reality TV and tried to take their minds off the real world. Taehyun had never felt more grateful for his best friend.

Then Yeonjun had returned home. He’d ordered them all some dinner, and hadn’t let go of Taehyun for the rest of the night.

And then it was a fews days later, and Taehyun was stood outside his parents house with Yeonjun stood close. The funeral had just taken place, and everyone had come back to his mom and dad’s to celebrate his grandfather’s life with friends and family.

Taehyun had cried a lot during the funeral, and now he felt overwhelmed, not sure if he was ready to head inside just yet.

“Whatever you want to do, I’m here with you, Taehyunnie,” Yeonjun comforted softly.

Taehyun nodded, managing a smile despite still feeling very tearful. “I know, thank you, hyung.” He took a deep breath. “I think I’m ready to head inside now,” he said.

Yeonjun smiled at him, taking his hand as he gently led him into the house.

Taehyun watched as his friends and family chatted amongst each other. His mother was currently talking to a couple of Taehyun’s aunts, his father was conversing with some of their neighbours who had dropped by for support, and his friends were smiling softly at him, watching him and Yeonjun approach.

“You feeling okay, Taehyunnie?” Beomgyu asked softly.

Taehyun nodded, trying to stop his crying. “I’m fine, hyung. Thanks for coming.” He looked at Soobin and Huening Kai who were also stood there, smiling down at him gently. “Thank you to all of you for coming, it really means a lot.”

“Of course, Taehyunnie,” Soobin cooed.

“We weren’t going to let you be alone today,” Huening Kai added, hugging his friend.

Beomgyu put an arm around his shoulder. “If you need anything at all, let us know, okay?”

We all love you so much.

Taehyun felt himself getting emotional once more. “You guys really know how to make a guy cry, do you know that?” Taehyun weakly joked.

They shared a group hug, Yeonjun included. Once they pulled back, the elder placed a soft kiss to Taehyun’s hair.

“Hey, Taehyun, how are you?”

Taehyun turned around to see Heeseung stood there, and eyes softened immediately. He’d invited Heeseung the day prior, letting him know that he was more than welcome to come.

“Hey, hyung,” Taehyun smiled. The younger quickly glanced at Yeonjun, but the elder simply smiled softly at him and encouraged him to go and chat with the other.

“I’ll be here if you need me,” he said softly.

Taehyun smiled, before heading over to Heeseung, directing him to the kitchen. “Thanks for coming, do you want a drink or something?”

Heeseung shook his head. “No, it’s okay. I thought I’d just stop by and see how you were. I know it’s a hard time for you.”

And I want to show you that I’m your friend, and I care about you.

Taehyun nodded, smiling at Heeseung’s thoughts. “Well I’m okay. My grandfather meant a lot to me, but he was sick for a while, so at least he’s no longer in pain.”

“That’s good,” Heeseung replied, not knowing what else to say. He lifted his arms out, his nerves clear. “Could I hug you? I know how hard it can be… grief… it’s one of the toughest things.”

Taehyun felt fresh tears form in his eyes. He nodded quickly, before wrapping his arms around Heeseung. He felt the elder squeeze him back.

“I know you’ve got your friends, and I’m so glad you’ve got Yeonjun, really I am,” Heeseung whispered. “But if you ever need anyone else to talk to, then I’m here for you,” he said.

Taehyun nodded, despite Heeseung not being able to see it. “Thank you, hyung.”

They separated, with Heeseung saying that he’d leave Taehyun to it. “You really don’t have to go,” Taehyun said. “You can hang around with us if you want, the other guys won’t mind.”

Heeseung smiled, shaking his head. “It’s okay, I just wanted to check you were okay.” He wiped a tear off Taehyun’s cheek. “I‘ll see you at the office, yeah?”

Taehyun nodded, watching as Heeseung sent him one final smile before making his exit. He hoped the elder knew how much he’d come to value their friendship.

Yeonjun found Taehyun after Heeseung had left, immediately wrapping his arms around the younger. “Everything okay?”

Taehyun nodded. “Yeah. Im glad he came.” He rested his head against Yeonjun’s shoulder. “Thank you for being cool about everything, hyung.”

Yeonjun hummed. “I just want you to be happy, baby.”

And I trust you 100%. I know we’re meant to be together.

Taehyun sank into the elder’s embrace, inhaling the familiar scent that brought him so much comfort.

***

1 month later…

Taehyun giggled as Yeonjun smothered his face with kisses. “Hyung, stop. Anyone could walk past and see us,” he laughed, gently pushing Yeonjun away from where they were stood in the lobby of the elder’s apartment building.

They’d been out for dinner to celebrate Taehyun’s birthday. Yeonjun had taken him to a really nice restaurant in the middle of the city. They’d talked and laughed a lot, and Taehyun had felt the happiest he’d been since his grandfather had passed.

It had been an emotional month for Taehyun. He’d felt at a loss not having his grandfather there. At first, he’d often found himself doing something mundane such as checking his emails at work or making the dinner, and then he’d think of his grandfather and suddenly burst into tears.

He’d been a lot better in the past week though. Slowly, he found himself remembering the happy times with his grandfather, and thinking of them with a smile, rather than with sadness. He still had some time before he’d be completely okay, that’s if he ever was, but he knew time was helping his grief.

And so were the people around him. His friends had been an amazing support, and so had his parents. If Taehyun had ever felt sad and wanted to chat, they were all there, more than happy to listen.

And of course there was Yeonjun. Taehyun had no idea how he hadn’t fallen in love with Yeonjun the moment he’d met him, because the elder was simply… perfect. If Taehyun was sad, Yeonjun was there. If Taehyun needed a distraction from all the thoughts in his head, then Yeonjun would take him out or simply tell a joke to take his mind off it.

Truly, he was the best boyfriend Taehyun could have ever asked for. Yeonjun had asked him during dinner if they wanted to finally be official, and of course Taehyun had said yes. He couldn’t imagine being with anyone else but Yeonjun ever again.

He still hadn’t told the elder he loved him though, rather he was waiting for a special time. Yeonjun deserved only the best, and Taehyun wanted to give that to him.

Yeonjun laughed, and suddenly Taehyun was pulled back to the present. “Sorry, but I can’t help but kiss my boyfriend, he’s just so cute.”

Taehyun giggled once more, following Yeonjun as the elder took his hand and led him to his apartment.

Yeonjun slowly opened the door, which Taehyun found a little strange as he watched the elder cautiously look around.

“What are you-“

“Happy birthday!”

Taehyun’s question died on his tongue as numerous faces jumped out at him. There was Beomgyu, Soobin, Huening Kai, even Heeseung was there, along with some of their other colleagues like Wooyoung.

“What is this?” Taehyun smiled, looking around the room before turning to Yeonjun.

Yeonjun shrugged, but he was wearing a massive grin as he spoke. “We thought it’d be nice to surprise you.” He wrapped his arm around Taehyun and pressed a soft kiss to his lips. “Happy birthday, baby.”

Taehyun didn’t even have time to respond as Beomgyu, Soobin, and Huening Kai came bounding over. “Happy birthday, Taehyunnie,” Beomgyu squealed, hugging his best friend.

“Was this your idea?” Taehyun asked. Beomgyu always liked to throw a party whenever any of them had something to celebrate.

Beomgyu shook his head before nodding towards Yeonjun. “It was all hyung,” he smiled.

Yeonjun laughed. “Of course I wanted to throw a party for my amazing boyfriend,” he announced, emphasising the last word.

Soobin smiled widely. “Nice one, hyung,” he said, hugging Yeonjun.

Huening Kai laughed, already a little drunk. He pulled both the couple into a big hug. “Congratulations guys.”

“You’re drunk, Kai,” Taehyun laughed.

“I mean, I would lie, but you could just read my mind, so yeah, I’m drunk,” Huening Kai admitted, smiling widely.

Beomgyu nudged Taehyun, his own smile a little teasing. “You’re worst kept secret or what?” Beomgyu whispered, alluding to the fact that Taehyun’s entire friendship group now knew he could read minds.

Taehyun giggled. “Whatever, I barely read anyone’s mind now anyway.”

The party continued as Taehyun worked his way around the room, managing to greet everyone. Heeseung greeted him with a friendly hug and wished him a happy birthday. Taehyun was glad they could hang out, and even Yeonjun was completely fine with it. Everything had really worked out.

Eventually, as the hours passed and the party started to come to a close, Taehyun began to feel very tired. He’d been up early after spending the morning with his parents, and while the party was fun, they often had a tendency to tire him out.

Yeonjun being the most attentive and observant boyfriend he was, noticed the younger’s sleepy eyes almost immediately. “Want to call it a night?” Yeonjun whispered, wrapping an arm around Taehyun as he tilted his head to look down at the younger.

Taehyun smiled. “Yes, please. All I want now is to be in bed with you.”

Yeonjun wiggled his eyebrows suggestively, causing Taehyun to laugh as he knew what the elder was implying with that look. “Maybe if you’re lucky,” Taehyun teased, planting a soft kiss to the elder’s lips.

They bid their good night to everyone, retreating to Yeonjun’s room. Luckily, because the party was starting to end, Beomgyu promised that they’d be turning the loud music off soon once everyone had left. Beomgyu would be staying the night with Soobin in his room, and they were going to make up a bed for Huening Kai on the couch, and then tomorrow they would all wake up and go out for a delicious breakfast to continue the celebrations.

But right now, all Taehyun and Yeonjun could focus on was each other. Yeonjun gently laid Taehyun down, hovering above him. “You sure you’re not too tired, baby? I don’t want us to have sex tonight if you’re not feeling it.”

Taehyun silenced him with a kiss. “I want it, Yeonjunie. I always want it with you.”

They continued to kiss passionately, removing each other’s clothes as Yeonjun’s fingers travelled lower and lower, opening Taehyun up. Eventually, the elder was pushing in, causing Taehyun to gasp and moan as quietly as he could so the others wouldn’t hear.

Yeonjun quickened his pace, and Taehyun couldn’t stop himself from saying “I love you” as he lost himself to the pleasure.

Taehyun’s words had them both finishing, breath fast as they came down from their high.

“Did you mean it?” Yeonjun asked once he’d caught his breath back, staring at the man below him with so much fondness.

Taehyun paused for a moment, recalling what he’d said. Then, a smile slowly spread across his face. “Yes,” he whispered. “I meant it. I love you, Yeonjun-hyung.”

Yeonjun kissed him before he could say anything else, and Taehyun moaned softly as he became drunk on everything that was the man he loved.

“Happy birthday, Taehyunnie,” Yeonjun whispered, pulling back and brushing some hair out of Taehyun’s face.

Best birthday ever, Taehyun couldn’t help but think.

***

The two woke up as the sun was rising. Despite going to bed so late, their bodies hadn’t wanted to sleep for long. Taehyun didn’t mind though, they could always take a nap together later.

They continued to lay cuddled together in bed as they watched the morning sunrise. Taehyun had his head rested on Yeonjun’s chest, while the elder gently traced his fingers up and down his back.

“You never found out the reason why you can read minds, did you?” Yeonjun suddenly asked, breaking the silence.

Taehyun hummed. “No, I guess I never did. Although I wouldn’t even know who to ask about it, I mean, would a doctor even believe me?”

Yeonjun chuckled. “Maybe not. Still, it’s a pretty cool power, right?”

Taehyun thought for a moment. This power of his had probably shaped his life in more ways than he could imagine. He’d gotten to say goodbye to his grandfather and it got him to confront his own feelings. It also brought him Yeonjun. Taehyun doesn’t know if the two of them would have dated if Taehyun had never read Yeonjun’s mind that day, and if he hadn’t found out the elder was in love with him. Would he have considered a romantic relationship with Yeonjun?

Part of Taehyun thinks they would have found a way to be together. Even if if took months, their connection was undeniable, and it was like fate had pulled them together.

Taehyun glanced up at Yeonjun to see the elder already smiling down at him. “I like it. It’s a cool power. Even if it’s a little weird at times…”

Yeonjun grinned, eyes twinkling. “Not weird, just… extraordinary. You’ve got an extraordinary mind, Kang Taehyun.”

Taehyun laughed, about to retort, but Yeonjun was silencing his lips with a kiss.

Now less talking and more kissing.

And what else could Taehyun do but kiss Yeonjun back?

Notes:

And it’s over! There was a time I wasn’t sure when this story was going to be finished, so I’m really happy it’s done! Sorry if the ending felt a little rushed, sometimes I read my writing so much that I can’t always tell if it’s even that good, but I hope you all like the chapter anyway!!!
If you haven’t already, then please check out my other taejun/soogyu love island fic, I’m super proud of it and I think my writing in that fic is so much better than this one!!!
I have some more taejun ideas that I really want to write one day, so hopefully it won’t be long before I’m back with another story!!!
Thank you for reading <3