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Chan’s parties are usually loud, and this one is no different. There’s people everywhere, because Chan’s social circle includes half of the world's population. Not as if he's actually friends with everyone, actually very few people know the real Chan.
"Yo, Christopher, this party is sick" Jongho said, one of the famous baseball players at uni. "Thanks mate, I was not expecting this much but I'm glad" he said with a smile to the other two along with Jongho.
"This is crazy, I saw one of the ballerina girls outside, and you guys know what that means" Mingi, baseball team leader, said, making a fuss with the other boys, laughing about it. "We should play a game," Yunho said with a smirk, Chan has seen said smirk so many times he knows nothing good is coming. “Oh no, no no, not in my house” Chan said shaking his head “remember last time in Jongho house? Hell no, not risking my house that way” he said firmly while looking at the other laugh. “C’mon, I was not talking about something that big, maybe some shots to start with the girls and let’s see how it goes” Yunho said trying to convince Chan, the others were nodding and smiling looking around for the girls and Chan knew it was a lost cause. “Okay, but I swear if you guys lose control, I’m going to kick you out” he said with a nervous smile, he knew this was not going to be okay.
Yunho, Jongho and Mingi slowly disperse on the dance floor looking for the ballerinas crew, the music was loud and Chan couldn’t care less for whatever the boys may be doing to be honest, he was walking around the house trying to stay away from everyone, unfortunately lucky was never on Chan’s side, he went outside to have some fresh air while sipping on his cup, there were different groups chatting around the yard, nothing to wild and he was thankful for it cause he surely won’t see the daylight again if something happens at his home. A loud and bubbly laugh came from his right side, noticing some guys he had never seen before, and boy, he was sure he has never see them because he would totally remember them. A black hair guy laughing along with a freckled blue-haired boy but who he couldn’t stop staring at, was the red-orange hair boy, long white sleeve shirt and a long black SKIRT !? Chan looked at the other boys with wide eyes noticing until now the long blue hair guy wearing a black dress to the knees and long white socks , black hair boy who’s also wearing a painted skirt and crew leigh sock, they looked stunning and Chan couldn’t help but smile at how he didn’t notice this before, until a hard hand reached him from behind “what the..” he turn his head around looking at Mingi pulling at his shirt “we got the girls, let’s play now” he said, Chan was only able to have a peek at the boys in skirt again seen pretty red hair boy smiling at his friend while sipping on his drink before being dragged inside again.
They boys and girls were in a circle playing a round of truth and dare, the rest of the people slowly leaving until they were alone. After 2 long hours, one of the girls said she had to go, dragging the other ones with her. They had a good time, but Chan was glad to finally be over with it. “ohhh Chriss seems as you got someone just in your hands” Yunho said pushing him in the arm, “what are you talking about” he said laughing at his drunken state, “oh c’mon don’t tell me you didn’t notice” Mingi said taking another sip at his cup “she was literally ogling at you all the time while playing with her hair”. Chan was so confused, he honestly wasn’t thinking about anything he did or said while playing, he was just doing it because of his friends, all the boys looked at him with a ‘are you kidding me’ face while Chan looked at them confused. “main dancer Yuna, long blonde hair..” Mingi said trying to remind Chan who they were talking about, Chan looked at the other uncomfortable at being the center of attention. “You have to be kidding me, Christopher she’s literally the prettiest girl on campus and not mention she is the main dancer of the ballet club” Jongho said “You have to go over her” he said as if it was not an option, “Jong is right Chris, she literally couldn’t stop looking at you, I bet she would literally said yes the moment you tell her to go out” Mingi said laughing as if that was the funniest joke ever, Chan move uncomfortable in his sit. “I don’t think so” said Jongho “I mean, she literally has every boy on campus at her feet, she surely will play hard” said with a smirk on his face, suddenly a gasp was heard, everyone turned to see Yunho with the creepiest smile ever. Oh fuck no Chan said to himself. “No, fuck no, I have no idea what you are thinking but NO, I am hundred percent sure it won’t be nothing good” he said standing up and trying to escape. “Don’t you fucking dare to escape now” Mingi said smiling evilly at him, holding his hand, and keeping him at his place. “I dare you to date her, you have to make her fall in love with you in the next 2 weeks” he said with a devilish grin. “Why the fuck would I do that” he said complaining “I am not doing that” he said firmly taking his hand off Mingi. “Are you sure about that Christopher, I don’t think you would like the other boys in the team to know about your oh so shameful past” Mingi said standing up looking at his eyes with a teasing smile, “Don’t you dare to..” if looks could kill, Chan would be already charged under 3 murders by this night. “Watch me,” Mingi said with a burlesque smile. “I hate you all, get the fuck out of my house” he said angrily watching the other guys laughing while leaving as they knew they won.
The following monday, Mingi and Jongho were pressuring Chan to invite the girls over lunch “Cmon chan, you may do it” said Mingi with a big smile, “Think about it, the whole team could be with the girls, you already have one, lends us a hand bro” he said while hugging chan over the shoulders.
“I hate you so much, what happened to the bro’s before hoe’s?” Chan said, making a little humor of the situation. “Well.. you see, they have something you don’t have” Mingi said with a smirk “Unless…” he touched Chan’s chest with a flirty smirk. “Don’t fucking touch me you vixen” Chan said laughing getting out of Mingi embrace, Mingi laugh at their little game. “I mean, seriously Chan you have to do it, pleaseeee, it will be fun” he said insisting.
“Whatever, but I am not promising anything” he said with a bored expression, they all went to the cafeteria and saw the other member of the team at their table, he quickly saw at the near table knowing the ballet dance club will be as always there. “Okay but if I am going, I will not do it alone” Chan said looking at Mingi and then at Jogho, “You both are coming with me, let’s go” He said, pushing them from their back and directing them to the table where the girls were talking.
“Hey girls” Chan said with his charming smile, “My boys and I here were wondering if you would like to perhaps join us for lunch, we felt like the time at the party was not enough” he said while looking at the girls and then to Yuna giving her a flirty smile, a slight blush on the girl before she smile back and start playing with her hair, chan couldn’t felt the moment more cliche than anything. “Sure!” One of the girls replied while looking at Jongho with a shy smile. The girls stand up and start making their way to the baseball team table along with the other boys, Chan smiles at all the girls before taking Yuna by the arm stopping her behind the group.
“so uh..” he started nervously, clearing his throat “I was wondering if you would like perhaps.. go out somewhere, this weekend if you are not busy” he said looking at the girl. She looked at him battling her eyelashes, “sure, I think I have some time” she said with a fake disinterest, “Good, can I perhaps have your number?” he asked politely, taking his phone out and giving it to her, he already feels like he has done too much and this will go nowhere. She placed her phone number and gave him back, at that moment he heard a bubbly smile again. He was sure it was one of the boys from the other night, he looked at the front door and saw them again, how come he has never seen these boys before? The 3 were talking again, the blue-haired boy laughing at whatever the black hair guy said, he was sporting a crop top, high waisted skirt and a long blazer with the same pink candy color both clearly made of silk, at difference from last time, blue hair guys was wearing a full white outfit made of lace, booty short along with a simple white crop top and above of it a long sleeve see through shirt , yet again his eyes traveled to the ginger-haired boy with a sweet smile looking at his friend. He was sporting a pastel pink skirt and a white shirt white combat boots . Chan has never seen someone as stunning as him, Yuna looked at where Chan were looking and saw the boys making her perfect eyebrow frown. “So, are you getting lunch?” she said making chan came back to reality. “Uh.. yeah sure” he said walking to the boys table again, yet his eyes could stop looking at the pretty boys getting a further table in one of the deserted sections of the cafeteria.
The whole week end in a blink of an eye for Christopher, while being busy with works, projects upcoming, training, the weekend arrived quickly, he truly doesn’t understand why he agree with the guys but there’s nothing he can do at this point waiting for Yuna in one of the closest cafe from the campus. His leg keeps bouncing up and down with anxiety thinking how to end this as soon as possible. He saw the girl even before she went inside the cafe, white top fitting her slender body with a mid thigh height pink skirt, high knee socks and a pair of white high heels, the way she dressed kind of reminded him of the pretty boy at school which makes him smile just to think about it. “I am glad you are happy to see me,” Yuna said while placing her purse over the table with a wide smile. Chan’s smile automatically falls down upon getting back to reality “Oh.. uhh yeah, how are you?” he said changing to a polite smile, Yuna’s smile breaking down noticing chan’s mood changing, she sat opposite of him getting the menu and looking at it while faking ignorance “all good as always” she said putting a string of hair off her face.
“I’m glad your good, how’s the school and the club going” he asked not knowing what to talk about, he is not really interested so he is not looking into knowing about her personal life nor sharing about his, however, she seems happy to talk about herself “oh everything is great, the club is getting a little more busy this days, that’s why I had to make some space for today” she said as if making an space was so difficult. “oh I- I’m sorry I bother you with today” Chan said. “It’s fine, the club is still organizing for the final project and since I am so good I can take advantage of it” she said looking at her nails faking interest in them. “oh so the club is already starting? I can imagine it can be a lot for the presentation” Chan said a little awkwardly, he has no clue about ballet at all. They eat and drink while chatting a little bit about themselves (more like she talking about herself), simple small talk but nothing more superficial than what they already or the whole campus may know about.
While there’s absolutely no room to talk as she always has something to say, Chan is still a little awkwards, mostly because he hates small talk, but he doesn’t really care about his conversational skills right now. There was a quiet moment after she came back from a quick leave to the restroom, there was nothing else to speak of at the time and so Chan thought it was now or never. “uh… so, you know you are really pretty, and I think you are very nice so.. I thought perhaps.. would you like to date me?” He asked a little nervously, he didn’t really want to lie about her yet again, he doesn’t know much about her, not even after today.
“you see Chris, you are really handsome, but do you know how many guys I have doing exactly this every day?” she said looking outside the clear glass playing with her hair. “I don’t think this will work so well” she said, finally looking at him with a short smile.
“ohh, uhh, I understand, yeah… uh, I kind of will go now, then” Chan said slowly getting up. “I will see you around, I guess. Thank you so much for coming," Chan smiled, he honestly felt so relieved. “Sure” she simply said, Chan walked out of the cafe
Chan looked at her one last time before leaving and quickly waves before he walks away. “Bye,” he calls belatedly and Yuna returns the goodbye with a slight wave with her hand.
Chan just wants to be at home as soon as possible and get rid of this day and the awkward feeling. He honestly doesn't know why he let the guys drag him until this point.
It doesn’t matter anymore, or at least he hopes to. He tried and she didn’t agree, the dare is over, after all.
“The dare is not over,” Mingi says that same night, crossing his arms as Chan explains his ‘date’. The other boys followed every word he said and nodded with their heads when Mingi said it was not over.
“What? What do you mean? I took her out and asked her to date me and she said no! That is not my fault” Chan complains, because Mingi, Jongho, and Yunho are frowning with their arms still crossed.
“Cmon are you actually going to try to make us believe you really try?” Yunho asks. “She was literally drooling for you the other night at the party, of course she is going to play hard” he said rolling his eyes as if it was something so obvious. “Yeah, Yunho is right. She can have anybody so of course she wants you to believe she is actually not interested when she obviously is.” Jongho says.
“C’mon guys, that’s too pushy. I did my part and you already talked with the other girls. I am not doing it again,” he explains, he already knows that his friends aren’t going to let him go so easily because they like torturing him— perhaps it might be karma eating his ass for those times he’s insufferable to them.
But when they have already something in their minds all along. It's damn frustrating.
And that's how he end up here, once again waiting for someone who's he's not even interested a bit, the guys has been pushing him (quite literally) to invite the girls again to eat with them, and with a not so subtle kick under the table by Yunho signaling Chan to ask Yuna again. No surprise the girl accept with a short smile and a quick "I'm free this weekend", the classes, training and the whole weeks passed way too quick for Chan's like, the boys had told him to take her to a fancy restaurant, to actually put a little effort, so he text her asking if she's free this weekend at night, he was trying to reassure himself by saying she won't accept again and he will tell the boys he tried but nothing worked.
He took a deep breath and looked ahead of him just at the right time to see Yuna talking to a waitress. He quickly stood up to reach her, yet she was already walking to him.
"Hi, uh.. thank you for coming again, you.. look really nice" he said just by courtesy, pulling out the chair in front of him signaling her to sit. She smiled at him and sat down with a quiet 'thank you'
"So... how are you? How is the project going?" He asked, remembering from the last time while getting back to his sit.
"Everything is great, we have officially started with it, the choreography is not completely set but we have already started with it" she said, taking a string of hair behind her ear while looking at the menu.
"That's great" he said smiling before looking at the menu deciding what to get. "how about you? I heard some rumors about a play upcoming '' she said, eyes still on the menu. "Ohh, well we haven't received any response yet, but.. yeah there's supposed to I guess" everything is so damn pricey, why is he here again? He should have trust Jongho we he suggest the place, a waitress came and asked if they would like something to drink and before Chan has the chance to ask for a little more time Yuna replied "you can bring us a glass of wine to start and for me you can bring a smoked salmon pasta, and can you bring the toast not so crunchy but also not soft, and please don't add parsley" she looked at the waitress with a fake smile and then looked back at chan's direction. Well damn, that was.. quite specific . He doesn't even know about fancy food, he just likes food "Uhh herb roasted rack of lamb will be fine for me" he said, giving a small smile to the waitress and giving her back each menu. She excused herself with a 'I'll get back with your glasses'. Chan looked back at Yuna not knowing how to fill the awkward silence.
"I was glad you asked for another date" she said suddenly just at the time the waitress came back with each glass of wine, she took a sip and place it back at the table, "I mean, I was sure you were going to ask again but I guess I'm glad it was sooner than expected" she add. Chan was so confused, how can someone be nice but so narcissistic at the same time. "Yeah, I... I guess I don't give up so easily" he said with a chuckle, if only he sound be wasting his time on this. "You know, popular people should stick together,'' he said, remembering something Mingi said. He was actually quite mad at that time. Chan hates categorizing people, what's the point of it, people are people and everyone is different. Yuna's face automatically lit up when he said that. "Yess, you are so right" she said with a big smile "ahh so you are not just a pretty face" she said in a low voice yet Chan was still able to hear her, well not everyone who's known at uni are brainless like you , Chan though. "So... that means you have been thinking about what I said before?" He tentatively asks, please say no, please say no, please say no . "Actually.. yes, thinking about it maybe we should be the hottest couple on campus" she said with a big smile. “Is that a yes then? Will you..” oh boy this is harder than expected “will you date me?” he asked with a grimace, hopefully passing as a nervous smile.
“Yes! I mean.. I don’t think I may date anyone else as popular as you, and everyone will be so jealous of us” she said, finishing her plate again, “baseball captain and head dance of ballet club, there’s no one else like us, don’t you think?” she said with a big smile, Chan was truly lost at every single word, why being the captain relevant? Why does this popularity thing seem like a competition for everyone? “je.. yeah, you are right” he said with a small smile, he focused on his food once again, well, the damage has been done, he thought. He tried following everything the girl started talking about again, about the club and the girls, and how they should be planning their next date, places where she wanted to go and yet Chan all could do was smile and nod with his head agreeing on some things. He was so tired by the time he arrived home that he went straight up to clean himself and sleep as soon as his head touched his soft pillow, finally a little time of peace. He knows the upcoming weeks are going to be hell.
The following week the team officially announced a game by the end of the month and so that meant hard training for the whole month until said day. If being tired is an state, Chan is starting to feel it like an emotion, Yuna has been going by the end of every training and while the boys were happy since all the girls were tagging along with Yuna, everything he wanted to do by the end of a day packed of classes and an intensive training is going home. “Baby, there’s a new store open at the mall and I wanted to go and check it out, can we go, pleaseee” Chan was bring back to reality by being pulled from the arm and a body clinging to his side, he turned at the side looking at Yuna with pleading eyes, before he could actually said a word all the boys were pushing him from behind with sharp eyes, Mingi was looking at him with a ‘don’t you fucking dare say no’, with a sigh he took his things back and turn to Yuna. “ready?” he asked with a fake smile, she smiled big, taking his forearm and going out of the campus.
It was the third store they were watching and she was still looking around with nothing but complaints about how the material is ‘not good’ or not having the color she wants, he was beyond tired and his tolerance was running so thin by this time. “Are we done here?” he asked, watching as Yuna was taking another piece of fabric looking disapprovingly at it. “Almost done honey” she said, not even looking at him, “Yuna I have practice tomorrow and it’s getting late, let’s go” he said with a tiny bit of annoyance reflected in his voice. “You think this will look good with white?” he asked, showing a long sleeve beige blouse , “sure” he said with a tired voice, she took the blouse and another shirt from a similar color much less feminine, “uhh what is that” he asked, noticing it was from the male section. “We are matching of course” she said as if it was something very obvious, “uhh when did i agree to this?” he asked in a low voice yet she was still able to hear him. She turned around with a serious expression “Since the moment you are dating me christopher” she said with a hand at her waist “what did you expect? we are literally the best couple on campus, we have to show up” she said wit turning around and heading to the cashier, he just stood there processing what she said, why making such a fuss about all the dating, “okay, let’s go” she said making him carry the new bags of clothes. He might not want this but he was still a gentleman so he walked her to her house, she kept talking about all the outfits she is has planned for both of them, Chan was not even a fan of fashion, sure he likes some things but he would rather prefer being comfy than showing off daily, they arrived at her house and she turned around at the entrance “I want you to use white pants, something nice and fitted” she said with a smile, “we will be matching and I want you to look nice, okay” she said with an almost threatening voice. “Sure, have a nice rest” he said, leaving as soon as he had the chance. He went back home feeling exhausted, he's been working out since half afternoon with the team after classes and being the rest with someone he’s not even fond of was not easy. He arrived leaving his shoes at the entrance and heading straight to his room, planting his face first at his bed and leaving an exhausted sigh, sooner than later his mom was waking up for dinner, waking up almost by command and eating was like breathing, he finished dinner quick and went back at his room, getting a quick shower, he looked at the message the boys has sent. Jongho officially admitting he is dating one of the ballerinas too and saying how she is so nice and sweet, well… at least someone is enjoying this, he thought. He dressed in comfy pajamas and before he was about to turn the lights off and finally having the proper rest he deserved he noticed the shopping bag at the end of his bed, leaving a tired sigh he took it and gave the shirt a view, well.. it’s a nice shirt, but fuck skinny jeans, he sure will wer white but not fitted pant, that’s way to uncomfortable to be all day at the campus. He hangs the shirt carefully before turning the lights off and finally drifting to dreamland.
“CHRISTOPHER BANG” the whole fucking cafeteria could know his name now if they didn’t knew before, “I told you nice. fitted. white pants” she said remarking every word stomping her feet, Chan knew this was going to happen but he didn’t expect it to be such a show for the damn campus, he arrived earlier than expected and attend his first classed, the boys being the assholes they are making remarks of ‘how nice’ he was dressed and how that’s the much color they have seen in him. He did indeed wear the shirt as Yuna wanted, yet he used some white cargo pants , which actually looked very nice with the shirt, yet he knew this was not what she wanted, he felt comfortable like this so this is what it gotta do. “But they still look nice, that’s what you wanted, right?” he tried to twist her words in his favor “yes but I specifically said fitted pants, these don't match with my skirt” she said, effectively she was wearing a pencil white skirt which was nothing close to his pants. “but.. they are still white” he said, starting to get annoyed by all the attention, the boys were trying to hide their laugh watching Chan’s annoyed face, “it doesn’t matter anymore, let’s get lunch” he said turning around, giving a hidden middle finger to the boys, they all cracked with full laugh at the same time, following the group of girls and sitting together, “I think you both look very nice” Mingi said with a burlesque smile, Chan kicked his chin under the table. Both groups start talking about everything and nothing as always, nothing interesting to him. Eventually lunch ended quickly and the wave of students again were scattered to their upcoming classes, the groups quickly heading to each other when someone collapsed against his back, making all the books and papers the other person was carrying fall around the floor.
“Oh God, I’m so sorry, I didn’t calculate the space properly” they said, quickly gathering the papers and books, Chan kneel and help collecting everything in a pile “Thank you” the sweet voice said, standing up along with Chan and until then Chan noticed, it was the orange hair boy, “Thanks for the help” he said with a short smile, Chan looked at the boy, frozen in his spot while the other one cleaned his clothes because of the collison, Chan notice until then… that shirt kind of looked familiar, “Ja! well, you are indeed matching with someone” Mingi said lowly with amused laugh and that’s when everything click, holy shit, he’s wearing the same shirt as Yuna, Chan noticed, however, this boy was wearing a white soft short belted skirt which in fact matched with his cargo pants. “Wow” Chan said not realizing he said this aloud. “Minnie hyung, what’s taking you so…” the black hair guy appears wearing a black leather skirt, white shirt and pastel cream socks along with the blue hair guy wearing short denim shorts with a white cream long sleeve flowy shirt . “Is everything alright?” blue hair boy asked with a deep voice, “oh.. yeah, I wasn’t looking properly and collins with him, all okay” he said giving his friends a quick smile, “uh… thank you for the help… “ he left the sentence incomplete, chan realize he didn’t knew his name “Chan” he said with a big smile. “Chan, sure, thank you” the boy said before turning around and leaving with his friends. Chan stood there frozen in his place watching the boys leave, minnie, that doesn’t sound exactly like a name but.. it’s something. Behind his back someone cleared their through to call his attention, and there she was, with an angry face and crossed arms, beyond her they boys stood with funny expression, Yunho moved his lips wording a ‘you fucked up’, he grimace imagining what to expect, he looked back at Yuna still with crossed arms “wow” she said, “so you say wow to him but not at me? Does he look better than me?” she asked angrily, the boys behind her shook their heads telling Chan to deny everything she says. “No, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it to him… I was.. i was just surprised someone uhh dared to not look at me” he said, the boys behind his back giving him a thumbs up. “Sure, whatever you say Christopher, bye” she said walking to her class finally, Chan left a big sigh after she was out of view and all the boys started laughing. “The fuck was that Chris, you should have seen your face, you were struck by that boy” Mingi said barely understandable due to his laugh. “Fuck you, I hate y’all” he said walking to his class, boy.. What a long week it was.
The following weeks were indeed HELL, between practices, the boys bothering about his little encounter with ‘minnie’, Yuna and the girls following them too. The game was this weekend and he was excited yet so nervous at the same time, this one was one of the important ones. They waited weeks for confirmation this was happening and it’s finally happening. The whole campus knew about the game and so were posters and decorations on every hall about it. Chan was feeling genuinely happy by the support they are providing the whole team, the adrenaline was felt in every last training they were having and just in a blink of an eye the weekend arrived. Chan woke up extra early that day feeling the adrenaline though his body, his family was working until midday as always so he have the whole house to spoil himself before the big game, he did a quick but very much needed breakfast having the chance to eat at the living room while watching an episode of his favorite serie. Soon enough it was midday and he should be getting ready, he took a long shower cheering and encouraging himself before the game, just when he was finishing he heard his mom announcing her arrival. He took his time preparing and checking he got everything he might need before leaving. He gives his mom a quick peck on the cheek before leaving home and heading to the campus, he could see lot of people heading there too and it just makes him feel giddy with excitement, “Chris! Hold on, wait for me” he heard a hurried voice behind him, turning around finding Hongjoong with a big smile, “hey, what’s up bud” he said once he was at Chan’s side. “Good, I’m so excited” he said with a big smile, “I didn’t know you were coming” he said looking at him before fixing his eyes ahead again. “I was not, but my boss got sick so I had the day off” he said with genuine happiness dripping in his voice, hongjoong were one of the squad before but he quit the team as he needed to start working part time “couldn’t miss a chance watching you guys” Chan smiled at him while giving him a friendly punch in the arm “aww missing us haha” he said joking, “is seonghwa coming too?” he asked, the other blushing lightly at the mention of the other boy, “Not sure, he said he will tried” he said with a shy smile, Chan’s smile growing bigger looking at the other’s reaction, before they could talk any further they arrived at the campus, cheerings, screams and music heard everywhere. “Time to go then, see you later” Chan said walking to the campus stadium and heading backstage to get ready, the boys were already there getting ready, he quickly pulled everything out changing himself. “Captain, you ready for today” one of the other team members asked with a smile, “more than ready” he replied “Okay boys! we are out in 5, I want everyone ready” the couch’s voice were heard “yes, sir'' everyone replied voices full of eagerness, the boys made a circle like they do before every game to cheer themselves “okay boys, this one is big, I want everyone to enjoy but I need you focus on the game, let’s get this, 1 2 3” Chan said “fighting” everyone replied, voices filling the whole room, they exit animatedly when their name was announce getting ready in their positions.
He quickly checks everyone being in position before looking at the public. Everyone was cheering in chorus for them, jumping and screaming, he smiled to himself and focused on the game. It was a thigh match, everyone was tired but he was able to still see the eagerness in each member, they were missing just a single strike for a win, he watch Yunho getting in position while he was looking at Mingi, he turn looking at Jongho who was already looking at him, and with a short nod they start the new game, everything happened in a blink of an eye, a strike was made, the boys were running while screaming with all their euphoria to catch the next base. The public was silent and the tension was palpable and suddenly, the whole stadium was screaming. They win.
They boys scream with all their lungs, jumping and hugging each other, he turned around facing the stadium with a big smile spotting Hongjoong jumping and screaming with Seonghwa at his side with a big proud smile, he spots San and Wooyoung too, talking animatedly to Yeosang probably about the game. He waved at his friends before freezing in his spot, two rows behind them,there was the orange hair boy, he is called minnie, his brain supplied. He was jumping with a big smile, screaming something that seems like a “we did it” along with him it was the blue and black hair boys were hugging happily, Chan’s smile grew bigger before a hard pat in the back bring him to reality and an arm circle his shoulder, “Captain we did it!!” Mingi scream at his side, Chan smiled at the boy’s enthusiast as the other boys surround him with a more screams, he laugh with them eyeing one last time the orange hair boy, they all get backstage to shower and change, the adrenaline still felt in their bodies, they were talking about what they did, how they felt in the middle of the game until new voices were heard in the entrance, “oh ho, seems as these boys don’t miss me anymore” Hongjoong said with a big smile, san, wooyoung, Seonghwa and Yeosang along with him. “ohhh is our capi jealous?” one of the boys mocked him, “nonsense, you know you will always be the captain” Chan said with a smile, fixing his shirt before looking at the other boys ready, “we should get some drink” San said, looking at the boys “this was a well deserved victory” all the boys cheered and agreed with him, mentioning places here and there, he looked at the boys with bright smiles in their faces, laughing at what Mingi and Yeosang were saying. There were still a few people around talking about the game, he heard a faint grunt with a “are you crazy” followed by a “c’mon you like baseball and he is the captain, invite him” from a deep voice, he barely register the familiarity by it due to a laugh above said deep voice.
Once again he was struck by a hit of reality -quite literally- with a body against his. His quick reflexes were barely active by taking the body in front of him to prevent the fall. “I’m sorry, I was not looking around” he apologized automatically, the body infront of him jumping off his arms as if they were on fire. “Uh, no, it’s not your fault,” the other said. Chan saw the blue-haired boy behind first with a short smirk on his face, his breath catching in his throat when he heard a faint “well, this is interesting now” by Mingi behind him. He didn’t have to see who was in front of him to know, his eyes going from the floor, catching high black socks, going up and up seen a seeing a white, black and orange plaid skirt with a white button-down shirt tucked in until a shy smiling face “sorry, my friend just, literally push me.. So, we were actually leaving and we were just thinking, maybe you would like to tag along? We are just going out and eating something. It was a great game by the way” he said taking a step back, “all of you” he said looking at the other boys “the game was fantastic, you totally deserved the win” he said with a big smile. Chan’s smile growing bigger looking at the boy in front of him, “yes, that would be great” Mingi replied throwing his arm around Chan’s shoulders “actually, we were thinking the same, my friend Chris here deserve it for all the hard work as a captain” he said a little too high for the word ‘captain’, Chan grunt at this, he knew he was up into something, “right boys?” he asked at the other, they looked at each other like mentally agreeing on whatever Mingi might be into. “Sounds nice” Hongjoong said, not understanding a bit but agreeing on it “who else will be coming?” he asked.
“Sorry, guys, long queue on ladies restroom” someone said behind, a girl with a wine dress patterned along with another girl with quite similar color skirt and jacket with combat boots , behind them there was another girl with white and yellow skirt, white shirt and small top above it with the same pattern, she was talking with a tall skinny boy with fitted white pants and a pink open vest with the same color as the blue hair boy dress .He then realized they were all matching clothes, cute, he thought. “So… are we going?” the black hair guy asked, and then Chan confirmed, there is no way they didn’t agree on this, watching said boy with a black long sleeve see through shirt, with a burgundy short top and skirt . “Yes, absolutely” Mingi smiled at Chan dragging him with everyone else.
They agreed on going to a small barbecue place where they can sit together, not surprisingly the boys getting along with the new group. Chan felt happy and relaxed, he did not expect getting together like this but he wasn't complaining. He later realized the blue haired boy was called Felix who was dating the tall skinny boy called Hyunjin, the black haired boy called Jeongin being the younger one and finally the oh so called minnie actually named Seungmin. He could feel Mingi and Jongho’s eyes on him while watching the new boys, he also learn they were all in the art department, some studying dancing, singing, stylisting, fashion, it was a quite varied group of people yet everyone get along so nicely, they were all talking animatedly while he, Seonghwa and Seungmin were cooking. “So.. you, Felix and Jeongin seem very close, '' Chan said to Seungmin, “have you been friends for long?” he asked with genuine curiosity. “yes” he simply replied. Chan was trying really hard to have a conversation but it was hard if the boy didn’t want to talk actually, he could notice felix’s piercing stare at Seungmin while the other was scolding him through his stare, suddenly there was a clattering of plates and a giggling wooyoung while San was trying to arrange everything as nothing has happened, he saw Jongho and Yunho laughing at his idiocity, and from the corner of his eye he could see felix talking to Seungmin, he was able to heard a faint ‘stop being so defensive’. okay, time to leave.
“Okay, I think it’s time to call it a day” Chan said, noticing how Hongjoong was a little more smiley than usual and Seonghwa wasn’t leaving his side and that was all the signal he needed. “Yeah, it’s getting late, I think it’s time to leave, '' Seungmin said. He called one of the waitresses and asked for the bill, they split it between everyone and called it a night. Chan arrived at home finally feeling the weight on his shoulders from all these tiring weeks. He delivered a soft good night to his parents and headed to his bed, taking a relaxing shower before falling fast asleep.
The following week after the game Chan felt more at ease, projects and exams filling every class and so there was even less time he saw Yuna, he kind of felt bad at the thought of him being happy without his supposed girlfriend. His schedule was starting to pack up within the constant training, projects and content to study for exams. He still agree seeing the boys at lunch and sometimes along with the ballerinas yet his eyes were always focus on the group of boys with skirts, while he was still trying to get ahold with the boys and whatever they were talking about, he could still notice the the discrete eyes from the blue hair boy and then talking to his friends. “Chris, are you with us?” Mingi asked. “ah? sorry, what were you saying?” he asked, Mingi followed his eye line and then a devilish smile appeared on his face “ohh got distracted?” he asked with a mocking tone, the other boys turned around to see who they were watching. “Goddamn it, can’t you at least be sneaky when glaring at someone” he said, feeling the top of his ears getting redder by each minute. “You like him” Yunho said, “no” he instantly replied. “He wasn’t asking” Jongho said with a little laugh, “Bro you haven’t stopped watching him since we went out” he said in a matter of fact “out with who?” Chan felt his shoulders tense at the voice “uhh.. just friends” Mingi said in a state of panic, “yeah, we were just talking about the game” Chan said, in a hopefully credible voice “right boys, we just went out to eat afterwards” he said, the boys just nod at whatever Chan might say.
“I heard you win,” Yuna said with a big smile, “You better tho, what a shame it would be if you lost such an important game.” She said, taking a seat at Chan’s side, all of the boys heard her clearly and they just turned and looked at Chan expecting him to say something, “Yuna, don’t say that, they work hard, right honey?” Jongho’s girlfriend said, he smiled sweetly at her and kissed her cheek whispering a soft ‘thank you baby’, at least she is genuinely nice, Chan thought. “I mean of course they worked hard, that’s why they must have won” she said again tying her hair in a high ponytail, Chan turned to look at the boys and they were all glaring at her with frowned and angry faces. Chan signed loudly and resumed finishing his lunch, you could feel a little tension at the table, everyone finished their lunch and head to their respective way before he could felt a hand in his forearm, he turned looking at Yuna who was looking at him with a silent ‘stay’, he looked at the guys who were waiting for him and let them know with to go ahead without him, he turned again to Yuna looking at her with a tired face “Do you need something?” he asked, “yes, can you at least try to look not annoyed with my presence” she said harshly crossing his arms, “can you at least try being more nice” Chan use her same tone, she gasp surprised and looking offended as if Chan has actually accuse her of murder, “how can… Do you know I can actually have anyone” she said annoyingly, “yeah well, try finding someone who put up with your princess attitude, now excuse me, I have class” he said as a final bye leaving her behind, he went to the bathroom first needing to fresh himself, he was truly thinking on finishing this he looked at his reflection looking tired, he know after today the boys would totally jump agreeing with him. He splashes cold water in his face feeling a little better, he took a papel towel drying the remaining water off his face when he heard a stall opening. “Are you okay?” he suddenly heard a voice, he turned to the side looking at the blue haired boy, he was looking at him with a slight concern in the face. “ahh yeah, thanks for asking, just tired I guess” he said, throwing the paper towel at the trash can. “Got you mate, these weeks are really packed” he said, mate.. mate.. did I hear correctly?, “mate” he said as a broken record, “oh.. means like friend? buddy? Sorry my friends are already used to my words” he said shyly, looking at his hands while washing them, “no I.. are.. from Australia?” Chan asked surprised, the blue hair boy turned his head quickly looking at him with wide eyes as if being speechless, paper towel in his still slightly wet hands, “yes..” he said a little too stunned, “omg I knew your accent sound different, it’s so nice to find someone else from home” Chan said happily, Felix beaming at the mention of someone else from his country, “God you have no idea how much I was needing this encounter” Felix said smiling brightly getting closer to the other hugging him tight, Chan let a soft chuckle at the affection of the other yet allowing him to cling to his body patting the other’s back, a if realizing until that moment the other let a quick squill out of his mouth and pushed himself back “omg I’m so sorry I-” Felix start babbling about how he is too affectionate with his friends and honestly Chan just found him so endearing, “That’s okay mate, I don’t mind” he said with a soft smile, Felix look at him still with guilty eyes “I have to go but.. it would be nice to catch up.. you know having support from someone who reminds you at home” Chan said getting closer to the door and giving the blue hair boy one last smile before going to his class.
In the following days, Chan and Felix found themselves spending more time together, bonding over their shared Australian roots. During breaks between classes, they often met in the halls having a quick chat or either just acknowledging each other's presence. Before Chan could catch a breath again he was once again drowning between projects, Yuna kept pestering him during lunch breaks and it has become so awkward as all of the boys now acknowledge how much of a pain the girl is. “Honestly bro, just broke up with her, I’m sorry for making you this miserable” Mingi said in one of those quiet time before strolling to their next class “fuck you, I would look like a dick breaking up with her specially through this week” Chan said sighing loudly, “I will see what I can doo, I’m too tired right now I just want the term to finally be over, see you around” he said parting ways from Mingi and going to his respective class, he enjoy enjoy his classes usually but at this point he is just so tired, he arrived at the class immediately sitting at his friend side, Changbin and him don’t hang out ofter out of classes yet he likes to think the shorter and him close as they share so much of their passion on music “Damn, chan hyung you look like shit” Changbin said looking at the other “thank you” Chan said tiredly, “No i mean.. are you okay? insomnia, still being a bitch?” the shorter man asked worriedly, all of his friends know he has a quite bothering insomnia kicking more often than not yet chan always manage to sleep what he can the most when available yet these weeks has been so tiring, the australian just humm at the other looking at the professor starting their class.
And as if a exam wasn’t enough, their music production has assign a project being a good part of their grade with a tight deadline looming and exams on the horizon, fortunately he at least let them select the group, Chan and Bin immediately looking at each other before looking around to find their third member, they looked at a surely younger boy looking around anxiously, probably lost at finding a group. The three of them make eye contact before the younger boy slowly approaches them, “do you guys already have a group?” he asked, chan and bin looked at each other, “Sure” Bin said “we are complete with you” he said looking at the younger and throwing an arm around the other making the soft looking boy chuckle but finally smiling. The professor announced what the project must have and how this has to be a legit one as “being a third year student” should actually start working on something. They all should have a soundcloud account and upload a song which will be their project and of course they will need to have a name for the group and explain their song for their deadline day.
The following days the trio practically lived in their university studio, working tirelessly on their project. As they burned the midnight oil, the stress began to take its toll. They have settled for their name after one afternoon having lunch at the studio to not waste time, Jisung bringing the stupidest yet brightest idea of calling themselves 3racha. Bin laughed so much at it after jisung said “but hyunnnnngg think about it! we are 3 and we are hot, it’s a great name” he said laughing himself at his idea yet Chan and Changbin have grown so fond of the younger after he starts opening up more to them. And so that was it, they called themself 3racha saying they are a self produced rappers for some history background and start focusing on the project.
Exams starting just next week and their deadline for their project being this friday, they all were exhausted. One evening, Jisung stretched and yawned, "Guys, I'm telling you, after this project, we're going to need a serious break. Maybe a good night's sleep or a weekend off."
Changbin, always one for a bit of mischief, grinned, "Nah, what we really need is to get drunk." Chan, who had been focused on the project, looked up with a raised eyebrow. "Are you serious? We're not even done with this, and you're thinking about getting drunk?" Changbin nodded emphatically, "Exactly! It'll be the perfect way to unwind once this is over."
Jisung gasped while looking at both elders with a gleam in his eyes, Chan was sure nothing good was coming , "And I've got just the idea. What if we throw a party after our exams? Celebrate our hard work and blow off some steam." And he was right. Chan hesitated, but Changbin and Jisung shared a mischievous look before turning their attention back to the group leader. Changbin being the second eldest and always up for a mess, "Come on, Chan, you know we need it. Plus, you're the social butterfly here. It's your duty to organize it."
Chan sighed, realizing that his friends had a point and there was no way he could fight both of them once they pair. "Fine, fine. After the exams, we'll have a party. But keep it low-key, okay?" Jisung beamed in excitement, "Low-key it is! I'll invite my boyfriend and a few friends, though. Hope that's cool with you guys." he looked at both with worried eyes, while working all these time so closely and the younger being more open to both of them he never actually mentioned about his boyfriend, sure he has thrown some hints here and there about him liking men but never actually say it, Chan always being good at reading people, offer the younger a soft smile. “EHHH? BOYFRIEND??? HAN JISUNG YOU ARE STILL A BABY” Changbin scream and chan laugh looking at the other protective side raising while jisung looked at him scared “there there, bin, he is older enough” he said laughing and making the other sit back again “I’m sure Ji wouldn't date anybody too, sorry Ji, he is kind of protective” he said slightly apologizing at changbin’s reaction. “I think Bin hyung and Minho hyung will get along then” he said laughing, Changbin taking his “protecting brother” instinct again asking jisung more about this boyfriend and honestly, Chan is glad Jisung found it endearing at the end.
“Minho hyung from dance major, actually my friends were his friends first” he said, mentioning more about how 2 of his friends also dance and even have a dance group with his boyfriend. The story sounds a lot familiar for Chan trying to remember where has he heard about this, a soft “ping” from a message getting him out of his thoughts, checking it and seeing a message from Felix with a meme. And then it clicked, also mentioned about being in a dance group. “Ji” Chan asked, still looking at his phone screen, now black as the screen time had run out, “by any chance one of these boys is Felix?” he asked finally looking at the younger Jisung, widening his eyes just a little shocked “yes. Do you know him?” a slow smile growing in his face. “Yeah, actually.. recently” he said, “so you know like.. the other boys he hangs out, right?” he asked cautiously, he could see Changbin looking curiously at him. “Yes! Those are my friends” he said excitedly. Chan's curiosity was piqued as Jisung confirmed that Felix was indeed part of the dance group. He couldn't help but smile, connecting the dots and realizing that his recent interactions with Felix were more than just a coincidence.
They keep working on their project, luckily already having a base and most of their lyrics done yet Chan could help thinking about what Jisung said earlier. Later that day, Chan gathered the courage to ask Jisung, "So, how do you know Felix and the others? You mentioned they're your friends." Jisung, always eager to share stories, began detailing the close-knit dance community. "Yeah, Felix and I met through Minho hyung, his boyfriend Hyunjin is also part of the team and we are all from the same year along with another friend, Seungmin” he said smiling while talking about his friends, “Minnie and I often go to visit them while they are practicing, if we are lucky enough we can drag Jeonginie with us” they were walking out of the university, Bin leaving earlier as he said he needed to do something with his family.
Chan's eyes lit up with realization of Seungmin being apparently a ‘00 liner. "That makes so much sense! I've been talking out with Felix recently, since we are both from australia.. you know. Small world, huh?" he said, chuckling and Jisung agreed with him. They both part ways to their home and Chan could help but feeling just a tiny bit closer to the orange haired boy.
As the days went by, 3racha were ready for their project even finishing it was 2 days before deadline making the boys catch a breath before starting exams, and just as expected, Changbin and Jisung started spending more time with Chan out of classes, sometimes eating together or just gathering around the campus. Both elders meeting Jisung’s boyfriend just the same day of their project presentation, Chan growing fond at the now second eldest, he laugh so hard when Changbin realize he was no longer the second hyung but a third one “I.. I don’t care then, That means I can pull our names better” Bin said with flushed cheeks, making reference to 3racha and this time Jisung was jisung laughing so hard he stumbled behind almost falling off if not for his boyfriend pulling an arm around his waist. The boys part ways from the couple giving them a little time alone before heading to their class.
As expected 3racha nail on their grades with their song, the professor even telling them to wait after class, the three of them look between each other afraid of what they need to talk about. On a whim all the other students present their songs. They quickly dispersed after getting their grades, and the three rapers stayed as they were told.
“quit your worrying faces kids, it’s nothing bad” Mr. Park said while taking a seat on his desk again, “I see your song has been very famous on your account, very creative name by the way” he said with a chuckle, the rappers being quickly flustered by it. “So, Cloud9, i like it” he said with a sharp gaze, “I want you to produce another song, a professional song” he said, “wha.. what do you mean professional?” Jisung asked “like.. an official song?” Chan asked with a little glint in his eyes. “Yes” Mr.Park said, “I want you guys to work on this group of yours professionally, I have some contacts that might be interested in you after graduation” he said with a smile, the three rappers agreeing happily to it and thanking him for everything. “Sure sure, now study hard kids, you still have a long road ahead,” he said, taking his last things and leaving the room.
A long silence involved them looking at each other before their younger one threw himself over the two olders with giggly laughs, Chan and Changbin instantly grabbing each other in a big hug jumping and laughing from ecstasy. “omg guys do you know what this means” Jisung said with a wide smile, “wait.. that means we are making a debut?” Changbin asked with wide eyes, “I guess we are” Chan said also with a wide smile. “Holy shit, I have to tell the boys” Jisung said, taking his phone out and still jumping around. “we are really going to make it” Changbin said to Chan, Changbin being the closest to Chan in his whole process as a producer knows the burning passion the older have in truly being a producer, the ups and down both has experience yet Changbin know Chan has been into this for much longer, “we really are” Chan said, smile not leaving a single time. “Guys, you okay if the other boys join for lunch” jisung asked, more likely screaming while being on the phone. “Sure, guess we will have a full table today” Changbin reply, Chan quickly take his stuff along with the other and head out to the next class with Bin as Jisung has a different one, both of them completely tuned out of it still feeling euphoric from the new and with a blink of an eye the classes went by and lunch time came, now Chan was feeling a little too jittery and it wasn’t only from the news. “Chan hyung, you okay?” Changbin asked grabbing him by the arm with concerned eyes, “yeah yeah just, I guess just still a little shocked from the news” he said with a low chuckled and flushed face, put your shit together christopher, is just a boy, “I know, I also still can’t believe it” Bin said, the elders quickly spot the group in a nearby table, Chan make a brief eye contact with Felix and the younger one raised a hand with a big smile “Channie hyung, here” the sunshine boy said waving his hand, the whole table looking at him now, Chan’s eyes instantly traveling to the orange haired boy “Shit” Chan said just at the same time Changbin left a low “Fuck” Changbin turned to look at Chan while the older looked at him with wide eyes looking as the other grew a slow smile “ahhh I see now” Changbin said with a smirk. “Shut up, as if you are one to say something” he said with pink cheeks moving to the table. Changbin briefly introduced himself to the others yet the obvious staring at the black haired boy was more than obvious. Felix, Seungmin and Jeongin already knew each other so there was no need of another introduction, Felix started talking about a new choreography they are practicing and Jisung complain to his boyfriend about not telling him about it, Chan was happy as Changbin seems to fit with the others and also he wasn’t feeling as tense as the other time, of course Chan noticed the way Felix looked at Seungmin yet the other boy only blushed and join jisung into bothering Minho. “As difference from boyfriend” Jisung said with a proud smile, ignoring as Minho kept laughing at his boyfriend antics “I do share about what I do” he said with a big smile looking at the other 2 rappers, “as you know I have been working on a song with Channie and Bin hyung” he start explaining, the other boys looking at him expectantly “so as today we present it, Mr.Park has let us know he might help us in officially let us be producers” Chan was sure if screams could break ears, hyunjin and felix might have done it possible. “EHH??? REALLY” the tall blonde screamed at his side, Felix literally climbed up the table and hugged the rapper “OMG HANNIE I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU” Felix said hugging the rapper and then hugging Changbin making the rest of the table laugh at the surprised face he made. Everyone started congratulating everyone, Chan looked as Minho whispered something at Jisung’s ear making the other smile shyly with a slight blush in his cheeks before pressing his lips softly, Chan looked at his other side, finding Seungmin looking at him “hey” he said softly, and suddenly all the noises around wasn’t there, Chan smiled at the other “hey” he said, “Congratulation, I am sure you will do a great job together” Seungmin said with a little smile, Chan felt his whole body melt “Thanks, that’s.. that’s really nice of you to say” he could feel the warm at the back of his neck, suddenly he felt a brush in his hand and looked how his hand was being involved by a softer one with a soft press “I mean it” he said with a soft gaze, Chan looked at the brown orbs feeling himself drown in the warm feeling. “Chan hyung?” he felt a hand on his shoulder bringing him back to reality, “huh?” he turned around, cheeks flushed as Changbin looked at him with a smirk along with Felix, “the boys can come to the party, right?” Jisung asked with a confused face looking between the orange-haired boy and him. “Yeah sure, told you it’s fine” he said, clearing his voice before looking anywhere else as he noticed Minho’s knowing gaze, “What party?” Seungmin asked looking at the others, “the party we were talking about just now” Jeongin said with a little smile and if Chan knew him more, he would have surely guess he said exactly those words to bother the second younger, “Chan hyung is making a party after finals to distress” Jisung said almost jumping in his sit if not for meaning holding him in his sit, “distress? that sound like a poor excuse” the orange boy said with a chuckle, Changbin rolled his eyes “that’s because it is” he said rolling his eyes, “oh shut up, it was your idea” Chan push him lightly in the arm while the other laugh, the boys start bickering again between each other until the whole table became quiet, Chan notice a shadow hollowing over his on the table and so the boys looking over him. He turned around looking at the group of girls and Yuna as always in the center, “why are you not with the others?” she asked, not even a ‘hi’ or any greeting at all. “Well I have more friend than the baseball club” Chan said trying to sound as polite as possible, Chan could see felix saying hi to Jongho’s girlfriend, “well you should always be with the others if you want to keep your image” Yuna said “let’s go” she said turning around, expecting the other to follow her. “I’m not moving from here” Chan said, he looked as the girl turned around slowly as in disbelief “what did you say?” she asked, getting closer again. “I said, I am not moving, I don’t care whatever you or the other think” he said firmly, the girl only laugh looking at fiercely at the other boys “I see your new friends has get into your mind” Chan looked at the boys looking at her awkwardly, he didn’t want to make this bigger than it was already starting to be, he stand up and felt a hand holding him from the wrist “you don’t have to do what she said” Seungmin told him, Chan smiled at the other and softly removed his hand, caressing it softly with his thumb “it’s fine, I just don’t want you all to be uncomfortable” he lifted his head and looked at the other boys “ I will see you later guys” He smiled and then looked at jisung and bin “ I‘ll be at the studio” said as he know they are the only ones who can come over there, he looked at the girls and then to Yuna with a blank face and walk down the hall, Yuna ran behind him following “Chris” she called “ Christopher! what are you doing!?” she said angrily looking at the other and grabbing him by the arm, Chan quickly removing his arm and looking directly at her eyes, she was fuming angrily “the hell was that, and don’t you dare to tell me nothing cause I can see clearly how you look and treat that boy, those aren’t even your friends” she stump her feet angrily “and who are you to know who are or who are not my friends?” He asked “You are THE christopher bangchan the popular captain of the baseball team, that’s who you are” she said “that’s why I am with you” she finished “we have to be together” she looked at him with big eyes taking his hand. Chan looked at their hands together before escaping from her hold “no we don’t , and I am just Chan, another student and you Yuna, you know nothing about me” he said turning around and going straight to the studio leaving the girl in the hall screaming angrily at his name.
Chan sat at his desk and left a heavy breath after having some time alone, he was beyond tired of everything and keeping this relationship was only weighing him more and more yet he doesn’t know how to finish it. Things were getting out of his hands and as being closer now to the other boy’s he has to say he didn’t feel that free before, although the boys know him and support him, he feels as his vibe and situation fit’s more with these young and bright boys. After all having good news early was left to nothing, he looked at the empty screen mad at how he let this escalate so much with Yuna, he doesn’t like regretting his choices but he could feel the disappointment over himself for this. He thought about the orange hair boy, not as if he wanted to be pessimistic but all the chances, all the ‘what if’ could happen. Without noticing Chan start over a new song, pouring his feelings and mind over endless lyrics until he felt a hand in his shoulder, he found Changbin looking at him with a pity gaze while taking a sit in front of him, chan remove his headsets and l give him a short smile “wanna talk?” Bin asked, Chan only shook his head looking at the sheets sprawled around the desk, “okay, what are you working on?” he asked, then trying to change the topic, Chan looked at the other, read his sketches before taking a new sheet and starting writing “wha.. what are you doing?” he asked getting closer to the other rapper and see at what he is writing, the lyrics matching so much of how he was feeling too “you are not the only one who knows about these feelings” he mumble, before looking at the older with a small smile and Chan realize this wasn’t pity but rather understanding, he return the smile and just like that they start a new song. Chan felt himself getting a weight off his shoulders and the support Changbin gave him encouraged his spirit. By the end of the day they both part ways with a light heart and genuine smiles on their faces.
The following week Chan struggled with a new tournament announced and exams, as he was “hosting” the party he let Changbin and Jisung take charge of what it will be needed and announce to the “closest” friends about it. Exams were kicking his ass just as much as Yuna was pissing the boys club. “I swear I can not sit another day with her Chris, why don’t you just break up?” Mingi said tiredly. Yuna and the girls have been sitting with the boys back again since the start of the week and the girl keeps talking of why they care so much for exams if they are athletes, Yunho looked at Chan with a ‘is she serious’ face and chan only shrugged his shoulders. “Well, we have to get into a university” Yunho said “yeah, daddy is not gonna pay for our university” Seonghwa said with a sweet venom in his voice looking at her with a smile at what Yuna only rolled her eyes ignoring him and clinging to his arm. Chan was planning with the boys some positions they may change for the upcoming game and some of the other boys to switch places. Chan could see Changbin looking at him from the distance, the other boys talking about something animatedly, ‘are you okay’ Changbin mouth at the distance, Chan only smile at him and give him a small nod, he then looked at the boy sitting beside Changbin, Seungmin was also looking at him with worrying eyes, Chan felt the tips of his ears burning and smily shyly which the other give him a bright smile, Chan let a breathless and soft giggle looking down before a hard tug from the arm bring him to reality, the boys were looking at him with a smirk on the face and Yuna looked at him with fuming eyes. “Minding something?” she asked sarcastically, “yeah, actually” he said standing up, “I have some things to finish” he took his things “see you later guys” he said to the group and headed to the studio. If he wasn’t in an exam or the field, you will always find him at the studio, Changbin and him have been polishing what they are calling the “If” song and so they have agreed to add it in their upcoming project with a blink of an eye it was already friday and everyone was free of every study responsibility. Chan was heading to the cafeteria when one of the new baseball players reached him “Chan hyung” he called the older one, “oh, Mat, hey, how you doing?” he asked politely, “ahh so good finally over this hell” the other laughed, “I wanted to ask, is it okay if I invite some other friends to your party?” the younger boy asked, Chan was a little confused as this was supposed to be only ‘close people’ yet maybe Mat was invited by Yunho or any of the other boys, “uhh yeah, sure, just don’t make it wild” he chuckled, “see you around” he said before heading to the boys, he watch Jongho and his girlfriend in the hall talking and heading to the cafeteria as well and as if coming like a bucket of ice water Chan realized “Shit, Yuna is coming” if Jongho invite his girlfriend then she is telling the other girls and that includes Yuna, Chan groan feeling a light headache already coming but he will not let this ruin his day.
Chan could already see Jisung bouncing everywhere once he spotted them, he was talking animatedly to the others about a stack of colorful decorations he got for the party . "Chan, you won't believe what I found for the party! These decorations are next level," Jisung exclaimed, excitement bubbling in his voice as Chan took a seat on their table.
Chan, looked at the other with a small smile, it was cute watching the young rapper so excited "Ji, we agreed on a low-key gathering, not a massive bash. I don't want it to be too big," Chan said chuckling. Changbin, who had been quietly listening to the other ramble about it "Come on, hyung. It's just a party. Let him do his thing. It's going to be alright. We all need a break." All the other boys agreed with him. “Anyways, how was everyone’s exams?” Everyone groaned starting to complain except for the younger one saying “it was okay” yet his face didn't match his words “you okay innie?” Changbin asked worried, the younger only nod yet still Bin moved at his side, he could see him rubbing the younger’s back while the other rested his head on the elder’s shoulder. Chan smiled watching them both when a sudden gasp alert him “OH MY GOD” jisung exclaimed, “what if.. we make a thematic” Felix and Jeongin instantly watching him with excited eyes, the idea of a multiples thematic concepts came up, and soon they were discussing the possibility of a "rockstar" theme. Excitement filled the air as they imagined dressing up like rockstars and creating a memorable atmosphere.
“Okay okay okay, hold on” Chan said, this was a little too much of what he can do. "The idea sounds nice but, Jisung, Changbin, you guys take charge of it. I trust you both. Just don't let it get too out of hand," he said, giving them a tired smile.
As the boys continued to plan and discuss, Yuna approached their table with a confident stride. She sat down beside Chan, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. "Channie, love., I heard there's a party. Why didn't you tell me?" she complained, pouting fakely and batting her eyelashes.
Chan, caught off guard, stammered, "Well, I... I was busy with exams and stuff. You know, it's just a small gathering with close friends." he stuttered trying to look anywhere but her eyes, Yuna rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed. "Chan, we need to have matching outfits. I was thinking of something sleek and stylish. Everyone is going to see us" she said, grabbing his attention, Chan grimace at the only thought to be along with her “uhh yeah.. well there is a tematic for it, and it will be a small gathering” he tried to sound a little convincing, when suddenly a bubbly laugh distract him, looking at Seungmin laughing at something Changbin said. Yuna followed his gaze looking at the orange haired boy with a piercing gaze feeling her annoyance growing. "Chris! Do you even care about this? This is important!" She said angrily pulling the Australian by the arm to get his attention back, Chan finally tore his gaze away from the conversation he was observing and looked at Yuna. "Sorry, Yuna. I've got a lot on my mind right now" he said tiredly, Yuna huffed in frustration, standing up abruptly. "Whatever, I will see you tomorrow," she said, shooting him a displeased look before storming away from the table.
Chan sighed, rubbing his temples again. "I really hope this party doesn't turn into a disaster," he mumbled to himself, hoping that Jisung and Changbin would indeed keep things under control. Quickly the boys part ways and say their goodbye to each promising to have a good time tomorrow. Being tired was a statement, full of emotions and sleepless nights yet finally having the time to enjoy himself was good. Chan told his parents about the party and both of them gladly let the boy do as wished since they were traveling to Jeju island that weekend for their anniversary. Chan honestly didn’t plan on it but it was indeed a good timing for it. Heading to his bedroom after dinner, he took a quick shower and let himself sink into dreamland.
“Channie” a soft voice called him, “Channie darling wake up” he felt a soft hand moving his shoulder, rolling to the other side, he heard a sweet laugh, “Channie, we are leaving” he finally recognize the voice as her mother, mumbling an incoherent reply, “I’m sorry, I know you are tired but if you want to sleep more you can close the doors out and come back to sleep, hm?” She sweetly caresses his back while he takes a seat in his bed rubbing his eyes. He follows his mom out of the room saying goodbye and enjoy the trip, he heads back to his room after locking everything ready to fall asleep again, he deeply sighs relaxed in bed slowly drifting to dreamland until his phone starts buzzing like a maniac. I swear this has to be an emergency , he didn’t even bother looking who was calling “you better be dying” he picked up the call “I am!!! dying to the most amazing party” Jisung said on the other line, too loud and too vividly to be 9am on a weekend. “Jesus jisung let me sleep, do whatever you want you know where the hidden key is” he mumbled before ending the call and falling asleep again.
He was woken up by laughter in his living room, a faint noise of a song playing in the background, slowly realizing the soft light in his room, the sun was starting to set. He washed his face and head out of his room following the multiple voices. “oh hello, sleepy beauty,” Jisung joked looking at the elder, Chan looked confused at jisung cuddling along with Minho, Changbin and Jeongin on the other couch trying to contain their laughter. “wha.. what are you doing?” he asked the other boys, “well certain hoster no hoster told me to do whatever I want and I needed extra hands for the decoration, don’t you like it?” He asked extending his arms to the open space and that’s when Chan realized his living room and what he could see from the kitchen was decorated pitches of black, blue, green and red different forms decorating the walls. “uhh nice” he said still feeling too sleepy. Minho laughed and Chan looked at the Jisung making a sad pout, “there there jagi, he is still waking up” the second eldest said, patting Jisung’s leg on top of his.
Chan, indeed still in a daze from his sleep, found himself being dragged into the whirlwind of party preparations by Jisung. As Changbin and Jeongin bid their farewells, Minho and Jisung decided to follow as the younger claimed he ‘needed time for a perfect outfit’, leaving Chan alone in his apartment with the remnants of the chaotic decorating spree. Once the others left, Chan looked around the living room with amusement and little apprehension.. Colorful decorations adorned every available surface, transforming the space into a vibrant and lively atmosphere yet he liked it, he kind of was starting to feel a little excited. Bottles of various beverages stood proudly on the counter, surely an idea of Changbin with the purpose of ‘we are getting wasted tonight’.
Chan shook his head with a small smile, appreciating the effort his friends put into creating an energetic ambiance. He ordered takeout to sate his hunger and, while waiting, decided to take a refreshing shower to shake off the grogginess from his long resting time.He settled down to eat and enjoy his unfinished Ghibli movie, feeling already lively and cleaning the space back again as it was, he contemplated his dressing for the party. Good thing he has multiple layers of black cloth for the ‘rockstar’ thematic, while putting on some pants and a shirt , a loud clicking coming from the living room alerts him and just like that Jisung bursts into his house, “you better be getting ready hyung” he scream, footsteps getting closer and closer until bursting into the elder’s room.
"Hell no, you're not wearing just black," Jisung declared frowning after watching Chan’s outfit, he strode directly into Chan's closet doors with purpose. Chan could only watch in bemusement as his friend rummaged through his closet yet he was stuck looking at his friend’s choice of clothes, honestly he shouldn’t be this surprised yet here he was, he shook his head getting out of his trance. "But black is my thing," Chan protested half-heartedly, knowing that arguing with Jisung about fashion choices seems to be a losing battle.
Jisung turned around "Exactly!” he said, taking him by the shoulders “you are always wearing black! Tonight, you're stepping out of your comfort zone, you are hot hyung and you are letting that get wasted, I know you have more than just black to suit today’s mood of the party." Chan chuckled, realizing there was no escaping Jisung's fashion intervention. He surrendered, allowing Jisung to pick out a more colorful and lively ensemble for the night. A new voice coming from the living room “you didn’t lock the door?” he asked Jisung with a worried face, “Chill out, is just Bin hyung, he said he was coming early to pregame” Jisung said, not bothering to look at him while still looking into his closet.
“Damn, jisung” Changbin said at the door of the room, the younger one immediately turning around to face him, “you like it?” he said posing for the other, and don’t get him wrong, Chan loves Jisung like a little brother, but hell if he doesn’t agree with changbin. The younger rapper was wearing high socks with black and white squares, combat boots, white shirt open and a knee leigh black and red skirt along with a cardigan with the same style. “You look, amazing Ji” Chan said, “HAN JISUNG I AM NOT ALLOWING A KID WEAR THIS AT A PARTY” Changbin scream with flushed cheeks at what Jisung and Chan laugh “trust me.. you will see much more” Jisung said with a smirk “by the way… you look very nice” he said turning around again and looking for Chan’s outfit making an ‘eureka’ sound after finding what he was looking for. “You wear this” he said, pushing the cloth to the eldest's chest, barely grabbing the pieces before the younger started heading out, “we will prepare shots in the meantime” said taking Changbin along with him out of the room. The Australian looked at the pieces of clothes in his hands before sighing loudly, as he changed into the new outfit, Chan appreciated the younger’s effort as he actually doesn’t look bad. He went out straight to the kitchen, “okay… thank you” he said with a short smile, jisung turned around and nod approvingly. “Is not fair, y’all look way too good” Changbin complained looking at the older’s outfit, blue shirt, black leather pants along with a cropped jacket from the same material, “What are you talking about? you look great Bin hyung” Jisung said “now, i wanna cheer for us” he said placing three shot glasses waiting for the other rappers to take theirs, “For us, and our upcoming debut” he said with a big smile raising his glass, Changbin and Chan looked at each other smiling before raising their glasses “for us” Chan said, “For our debut” Changbin finished, the three of them cheering with wide smiles taking the last drop of their glasses.
Jisung screams at the burning feeling in his throat, both of his friends laughing at him, saying he is a baby. With a new fervor feeling, Jisung put on some music to start the night, the lively beat of music thumped through the air making both of the elders feel more relaxed, creating an infectious rhythm that permeated the room. Jisung turned off the light and turned on some leds he placed around, the colorful lights danced across the walls making it more lively.
Little by little people start arriving, as expected, Mingi, Jongho and Yunho coming together followed by San and Wooyoung. Chan was finally able to introduce them to the other rappers, glad to see the boys were getting along, yet he was starting to doubt if getting Changbin and Wooyoung was a smart idea. Chan looked around, looking at various people, recognizing some faces. In one corner, there was already a group of friends laughing and clinking cups. He could already see some people outside too, reaching the door and opening it just at the right time finding Seungmin and Minho, a loud “OH MY GOD” was heard along with fast steps “dear jesus christ, lee minho marry me” Jisung said behind him. The second oldest of the group smiling at his boyfriend “surprise” he said with a smile, Jisung pushed him to the side, grabbing his boyfriend by the hand making him turn around, Minho giggle at his boyfriend struck face, he was wearing red and black cargo pants , a white shirt tucked in and plain black coat . “You are the best,” Jisung said, making him come inside the house and dragging him with other people. Chan looked at the couple with a short smile before a clearing throat took his attention, “is this also a surprise for me?” Seugmin asked, Chan looked at the other from head to toe, gasping at the realization. Shit, we are matching again . The younger was wearing a blue skirt similar to his shirt along with a plain white shirt and cropped jacket , the ripped black stockings hugging his legs perfectly with his combat boots . “I.. I didn’t.. shit” he whispered at the end, the younger laugh softly “thank you, you look good too” he said shyly caressing the back of his neck, Chan gapped at the younger’s words, the movement making him focus on his neck, a pretty collar making Chan delirious at how the younger could look with hickies around. “Thank you..” finally the elder was able to find words, he let the younger get in, at the distance, he could see Jisung looking at both of them giving the older a wink before focusing on his boyfriend again. Ahhh Jisung, that little brat.
More and more people were starting to come, Seonghwa, HongJoong and Yeosang arriving at the peak of the party. Chan could see the group of girls coming too and quickly looked for his friends looking for a escape. He skillfully avoided Yuna and the girls, finding solace in the company of Jongho, who seemed equally keen on escaping the more crowded areas of the party just looking for the drink at the party, however, his face fall when Jongho’s face beamed and his girlfriend get closed to him to share a chat. If Jongho’s girlfriend was here, means Yuna might be close, before he could escape again, his peaceful moment was disrupted when Yuna spotted Chan from across the room. With a determined stride, she made her way through the sea of people, clinging to Chan possessively dragging him in between people. “You need other friends” she said "Hey, everyone! Meet my boyfriend, Christ, he is the baseball captain in our campus" she announced proudly, showcasing him to a group of what she deemed as 'popular' people.
Chan, caught in an uncomfortable situation, smiled awkwardly and exchanged pleasantries with the new acquaintances. Seizing an opportunity, he excused himself from the conversation, slipping away in search of a momentary escape.
In the chaos of the party, Chan managed to find Changbin standing frozen at the door, a bewildered expression on his face. He looked out of the house finding Jeongin, dressed in a matching ensemble, looking equally surprised. Felix, sporting a stylish outfit himself, observed the scene with amusement.
"I think we've found a new couple without trying" Felix declared, his words reaching Chan's ears as he approached. Changbin, in black pants and a neon green sweater , stood in front of Jeongin, who wore a matching skirt and sweater with the same colors with tall combat boots .
Chan couldn't help but chuckle at the unexpected matching outfits. "Looks like we have some fashion-forward couples tonight," he remarked, palming Changbin back with a big smile. “CHAN HYUNGGGG” felix scream throwing himself at his arms, taking the older by surprise yet catching the smaller boy, “hey mate” Chan laugh while hugging him, “I’m so glad you make this, i was in the need good party” Felix laugh broking the hug “fancy of you to dress something else than black” he said moving his eyebrows and Chan have a feeling he know Seungmin’s having a similar outfit. “Should I be jealous?” Hyunjin asked jokingly, grabbing Felix by the waist. He looked at the couple, Felix sporting a black mini skirt , white shirt , cropped leather jacket and knee high boots , he clearly matched with his boyfriend who was wearing a long sleeve white shirt, black leather pants and a sleeveless fastened vest . “HA HA, very funny love, as if I haven’t told you about Chan hyung” Felix said draping his slender arms around his boyfriend, they engaged in a short talk before a screech was heard and Jisung came running hugging his almost twin. the group of boys quickly found each other, Chan let the rest of the boys present to each other and so they found themselves together. As the night progressed, their laughter grew louder, people’s steps became a bit more carefree and so Chan found himself engrossed in conversations, his words flowing with an ease that only a few sips of the potent concoction Changbin was giving to everyone could provide. Chan looked at the once reserved younger, Jeongin began to let loose, leaning into Changbin, consciously or not, the older was surely enjoying the moment wrapping his arm around the younger.
Chan give up at the idea saving this as a ‘small gathering’ yet at this point he doesn’t care about it, he was having a great time with his friends and while he might not be drunk, this is the happiest and relaxed he has felt from weeks. “Al right, time to make this interesting” Wooyoung said with a smirk taking a deck of cards out of his back pocket, “no no no, we are not doing that Woo” Chan quickly said, “oh c’mon hyung, it will be fun” Changbin said with a mischievous smirk. “Why is Chan hyung so opposed to it?” Felix asked, voice deeper than before and words sounding a little too slurred, “Guys, help. I don;t want this to turn wild” he plead to Hongjoong and Seongwha for a hand “Let’s have some fun, it’s been a while” Hoongjong said, “we can stop it if it’s turning out of our hands” Seonghwa suggest. Chan sigh knowing it was a lost case, and so the boys decide on a daring game of Truth or Dare mixed with a drinking twist. The cards were scattered on the table, and the air was thick with anticipation as each person took turns picking a card, everything started easy yet this was escalating little by little as expected from the boys. For once, making San take a body shot from Wooyoung and so they knew the real game has started.
Jeongin, with a mischievous glint in his eye, drew a card that spelled out "Dare" in bold letters. "Alright, Jeongin," Wooyoung said, "ready?" Jeongin smirked, leaning back in his chair with confidence. "Shoot me”. Wooyoung quickly looked at Changbin, his smirk growing in a saccharine smile, “Woo, no, he is our baby” Chan said, know his friends way too long already, “Sure.. baby” he said, winking at Changbin, wooyoung being a menace, always one to push the boundaries, grinned slyly. "I dare you to give Changbin a lap dance."
The room fell silent for a moment as everyone processed the audacious dare. Jeongin, eyes jumping open, face flushed as feeling the eyes on him, hesitated for just a beat before closing his eyes, and taking a deep breath before a mischievous grin spread across his face. The others erupted in cheers and catcalls as Jeongin stood up, moving toward Changbin with a newfound confidence. “sure.. baby” Wooyoung said sarcastically.
Changbin, looking at Wooyoung with a piercing gaze while the other sent him a flying kiss. Being caught off guard by Jeongin but certainly not objecting, leaned back in his chair, eyes fixed on Jeongin's confident movements. The beat of the music in the background seemed to coordinate with the impromptu performance. As Jeongin swayed his hips and playfully ran his hands along his own body, Changbin couldn't help but appreciate the boldness of the younger. The room was filled with catcalls, whistles trying to make the playful atmosphere not escalate into something more intense.
Chan looked at Felix watching the younger with proud eyes and Minho blushing ears. Chan shared a knowing glance with Hyunjin, silently acknowledging the unexpected turn of events.
When the performance reached its climax, Jeongin gracefully returned to his seat, cheeks flushed but an undeniable twinkle of satisfaction in his eyes. The group erupted in cheers and applause, quickly turning a few more truths and dares between each other, the group finished their round and everyone dispersed again, being more tipsy than before, some of them looking for more drinks and others dancing.
Some of them continued with another round of the game and when Seugmin pulled out a “Dare” he looked as Jisung whispered something at Minho and the second older smiled like a cheshire cat, “I dare you to sit on Chan’s lap” multiples ‘ohh’ and giggles were heard, “I am not making anyone uncomfortable” Seugmin said firmly, “Oh I’m sure Channie hyung won’t mind, Would you? Chan hyung” Changbin asked with a smirk on his face, he looked at Seungmin with wide eyes, “I.. it’s.. it’s okay” he mumbled, the whole group cheering and whistling as a blushing seungmin sat in his lap. They were both tense at the beginning yet the game continued they both got comfortable with each other. A second round was over and while the party continued to pulse with energy, with people dancing and laughter filling the air, however, Chan's little rest was cut short as Yuna found him once again. “Can I get my boyfriend?” she asked, emphasizing the word “my” as she looked fiercely at Seungmin, the younger mumbling something like ‘I’m getting more drinks’ getting up from the older’s lap. Yuna tugged at his arm, pulling him towards a group of people he didn't even care about. Despite his attempts to refuse, Yuna persisted to show off her boyfriend to the party's socialites.
Meanwhile, Seungmin found himself with his friends, teasing the younger after showing off and Felix complimenting him, the effects of the drinks making the atmosphere even more enjoyable , however, in the chaos of people dancing, talking and laughing, he found himself looking at Chan, even a drunken mind could see how uncomfortable the older was at the girl’s side. Jeongin and Felix looked at him with concerned eyes knowing their friend had been crushing on the elder for a while. Seungmin without a second thought, he walked toward him with a firm step touching him by the shoulder to call his attention. Chan turned around looking at the younger with confused eyes, Yuna turning around to see what called his boyfriend’s attention when being with her.
"You” he said looking directly at the older’s eyes, he looked at Felix and Jeongin also with confused faces, “I don't like your girlfriend. You can do so much better," Seungmin blurred out, his words fueled by the courage of alcohol, just at the same time of a song change, words clear and loud for everyone close. Chan opened his eyes, shocked just as everyone around, an offended gasp was heard at his side yet all he could focus was on the orange haired boy leaving the area, he left the people around bewildered by his blunt confession.
Chan, caught in the whirlwind of Yuna's complaints, ignoring the princess's protests, he followed Seungmin, determined to address the unexpected revelation, catching the younger just after crossing the front door, “Minnie” he whispered, “Don’t call me like that” the younger voice logged with heaviness. “Seungmin… please, what was that?” Chan took him the wrist begging for an explanation, Seungmin kept being sweet and daring yet defensive with him, it was making him confused, the younger one faced him and looked at his eyes, "You think I don’t notice the way you see me. I'm not going to be a game for you," Seungmin declared, he looked firm yet his voice was telling so much. Chan, taken aback by the sudden confrontation, insisted, "Seungmin, it's not like that. You're not a game for me." the younger pulled at his arms, “and so? I can tell you like me too Chan yet you keep wasting your time with.. yeah” he said walking out to the street
The princess, frustrated and confused, screamed after Chan, demanding an explanation for his behavior. “Christopher, everyone is looking at us, what the hell are you doing?” She asked angrily. Chan, feeling the weight of the situation, decided it was time to confront the truth, he turned around and looked at the girl in front of him "You know what, Yuna, I don’t care, I'm done," he said loudly, people gasping around, breaking up with the princess in front of the gathered crowd in the yard. People started whispering, some slowly leaving, the revelation sending shockwaves through the party. Seungmin looked at Chan one last time before taking the chance and leaving the party.
Chan tried following him, however, Jisung intervened, stopping Chan from chasing the younger. "Give him some space, Chan hyung" Ji advised, his expression serious. Chan, torn between emotions, reluctantly agreed, realizing that the unexpected turn of events had changed the course of the night. After the commotion, people left the party, Felix and Jeongin following Seungmin immediately, Chan sat in his living room staring at nothing, “C’mon dude... don’t make that face, Jisung said you only need to give him some space” Hongjoon said trying to comfort the captain. “Fuck, this is my fault, I’m so sorry Chris” Mingi said feeling the guilt for involving his friend in this mess, Chan chuckle at the other “Is not your fault” he whispered looking down, “It is! it’s our fault for that stupid bet” Jongho said, also looking guiltily at the older. “What bet?” Jisung asked, bringing a glass of water for Chan. Mingi explained the whole dating thing with Yuna. It was a stupid dare they made in a party, Minho, Changbin and Jisung looked at each other understanding now. “We make him do it” Yunho whispered. The room was filled with silence before Chan sigh deeply standing up “thank you for coming guys, I think I need some rest now” he mumbled yet everyone heard him clearly, so they left the Australian alone promising to keep in touch.
The weekend felt like an eternity for Chan, as he wrestled with the guilt and heartache that lingered after the party. The following week was no different, he overworked himself, burying his emotions beneath a pile of responsibilities from the club getting concerned ayes from the boys and making song after song earning himself a scolding from Changbin just to avoid thinking about the orange-haired boy. Despite his efforts to distract himself, Chan couldn't shake the constant ache in his heart. He spent countless nights staring at his phone, contemplating whether he should reach out to Seungmin directly. However, a sense of fear and uncertainty held him back as he knew the younger has probably blocked him.
As the days passed, he hadn't seen a hair from the youngsters, and while he was glad Felix and Jeongin gave full support to Seungmin, he still missed them. Seugmin had carved a hole in his heart and it was consuming him slowly. He appreciate Jisung’s effort in updating him and reassuring him everything will be alright yet he doesn’t how long he can stand this feeling.
One night, surrounded in darkness, a reflection of the heavy emotions weighing on Chan's heart. Frustration and a profound longing for Seungmin pushed him to the edge, founding solace in the numbing embrace of alcohol. With tear-streaked cheeks and regret for being too cowardly to confess before, In a hazy state, he decided to confront his feelings head-on. While he knows this may earn a scolding from Jisung, after insisting so much before in getting Seungmin’s dorm number. He somehow swayed his way into the dorm, Chan found himself standing in front of Seungmin's door, fueled by an inexplicable need to pour his heart out to the younger. Clumsily, he reached out to knock on the door, his hand trembling with vulnerability. He could heard commotion inside the room yet the door didn’t open, he knock again with a little more insistence, “Minnie… open the door please” Chan begged, new tears streaming down his cheeks, “Please…” he rested his forehead against the door. “what do you want?” the younger asked behind the door “please.. let me explain” he insist hoping for the younger to let him in, there was a long silence in where Chan though the younger might have left him there, he Sat down at the door’s side, “I’m such an idiot Minnie” he mumble “I like you so much, I have never seen someone as pretty as you” he let the tears flow down his face “you are so amazing, so smart and you are such a nice person, so nice with your friends and people around, and is so unfair you are so hot but cute and I swear I am an idiot for not letting you know any sooner” The vulnerability in Chan's voice resonated through the door, creating an atmosphere charged with emotion.
At the other side of the door Seungmin listened attentively. As Chan's heartfelt confessions unfolded, he cried listening to the older’s feeling, Seungmin could sense the sincerity in his words, debating himself before opening the door looking at the man sitting at the end of his door. When they finally faced each other, the atmosphere in the room was heavy with tension. Chan, now vulnerable and raw, spilled the truth about his feelings, the younger let him in, taking a seat in front of him on the couch. Tears flowed freely, breaking down their walls as Chan explained about the dare, letting the Seungmin know part of his insecurities making the younger cry again, the room becoming a sanctuary for raw, unfiltered emotions as their cries echoed through the walls.
Seungmin understood that Chan was genuine in his feelings in that vulnerable moment, the complexities of the dare and the genuine feelings that they both blossomed along their new friendships. Seungmin, still overwhelmed by the intensity of the encounter, found himself grappling with a mix of emotions, torn between the past and something. Seungmin shared with Chan about his feelings and why he might have seen like sending mixed signals, Chan felt himself sobering looking at the raw emotions, he wanted to hug the other but Seungmin newfound emotions left him feeling a mix of confusion and anticipation, he expressed the need of time and space, yet willing to take things slow. Chan, understanding the significance of the situation, agreed fully. Both acknowledged the importance of navigating their feelings and rebuilding their relationship.
Weeks passed, and the two found themselves cautiously reconnecting. They took their time, exchanging casual conversations and shared laughter, gradually restoring the sense of comfort that had once defined their friendship. As they spent more time together, the awkwardness began to dissipate, replaced by a growing sense of familiarity. Chan, feeling the subtle shift in dynamics not only form the group as they were back together but also from his side with the younger. “Do you think I should try?” He found himself asking Changbin one day in their studio. “Try what?” he asked, turning around to face the older, “You know.. asking Minnie out” he mumbled, talking about the younger still makes him a little nervous, after all, all of their friends are aware of it. “well, you both seems much more closer as when we get together again” Bin said thinking aloud, “Innie said he’s been happier these days” Bin confessed, Jeongin and Changbin start dating no long after the group start gathering again, the chemistry between both was palpable for everyone and Chan was happy they have found each other, yet the bittersweet taste of his.. something.. still stings his heart.
Finally, after weeks of careful reconnection and multiple thoughts and sleepless nights, Chan mustered the courage to take the next step. One evening, as Seungmin and him were together at the other’s dorm, as the credits of the movie started rolling, Chan shifted in his seat, turning to face the younger, he asked, "Seungmin, would you like to go on a date with me?" Seungmin looked at him with wide eyes and Chan’s mind start creating the worst scenario, “I.. you know..” he was starting to regret his decision, perhaps it was still too soon, maybe the younger doesn’t even… “yes” his thoughts were stopped by the other’s voice, a wide smile spread, unable to contain himself, Chan hug the younger thanking him over and over again. They both agreed on doing this the next day, Chan quickly heading to his house but not before hugging the younger one last time.
Chan carefully planned the perfect date in a cozy cafe, aiming to create an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. He settled into a corner booth, Chan couldn't help but feel a nervous excitement. The table was adorned with a small vase of delicate flowers, adding a touch of elegance to the rustic charm of the cafe. Chan sit restless at their table, he looked at the door at every single person entering and while he prepared everything to make today perfect, he didn’t prepare himself to be struck by Kim Seungmin’s beauty, the younger enter the cafe looking around to find the older and after finding him seating the the cornered both, his smile slowly blooming while approaching him. “Hope you didn’t wait too long” he said taking a seat in front of the other, Chan was speechless looking at him, Seungmin wear a long gray skirt and a soft yellow hoodie making him fit so perfectly in the cozy cafe, I’m so fucking in love, Chan thought. Their conversation flowed effortlessly after they ordered, a mixture of shared laughter and genuine exchanges. Chan found himself captivated by Seungmin's easy personality, they found themselves sharing more about them in their small privacy. As the evening unfolded with their conversation flowing seamlessly, Chan couldn't resist expressing his gratitude for Seungmin's understanding, the other in a strike of confidence taking the elder’s hand letting him know they are in this together.
The day had finally come for the boys to feel like a whole again, and the atmosphere was packed with excitement as they gathered together again. The air was filled with laughter and friendliness as they caught up on one other's lives and exchanged stories from their time apart. They started gathering again in their free time, eating together, Mingi, Yunho or Jongho sometimes joining them. Weeks are starting to look bright again for everyone. However, their reunion was soon disrupted by the unwelcome presence of the ballerinas, Yuna's friends of course, taking her friend's side, never missing an opportunity to make nasty comments and attempting to break the positive energy of the boys, yet all of they felt unbothered by the childish behavior. After weeks of trying to disturb the boy's peace, Yuna couldn't resist confronting Seungmin upon learning about the blooming relationship between him and Chan. She approached Seungmin with a condescending smirk, ready to unleash her displeasure. Yelling at him with her high pitched voice, calling him names and proclaiming Chan was only playing around with him. People were starting to gather around them whispering about them and Chan. Seungmin, unimpressed by her antics, met her gaze with a steely determination. "Yuna” he said sternly, “you were nothing from the start," he declared, loud enough for everyone to hear. "You can't compare to me when I have him wrapped around my finger, and I didn't have to do anything to get him to fall for me. Get down from that cloud princess" he looked at her head to toe, Yuna with an offended face “you are not that special” everyone’s voice raised as Seungmin confronted the girl. Chan, who was heading out of a class observing everyone gathered in a spot, he slowly sneaked in to see what was going until he found Seungmin caught in the crossfire. He reached out, taking Seungmin's hand and guiding him out of the circle that had formed around the argument. The students watched in awe as Chan led Seungmin out of the university, seeking a quiet place to talk.
Finding a secluded spot, Chan looked at Seungmin worryingly, apologizing over and over again for involving him in the messy situation. Chan's apologies were cut short by a chuckle, he caught Seungmin's eye-roll and lovely smile. “You know… for being someone so handsome and smart, you talk too much” he said, Chan was starting to apologize again yet in a sudden twist, Seungmin cut through Chan's words with a deep kiss. As their lips pressed together, time slowed, the sweetness of the kiss lingered in the air, their emotions resonated in every touch and every shared breath. Their mouths moved in perfect harmony as if they have done this all their life, Chan took the younger by the wait as Seungmin caressed his face. As they pulled away, breathless and fulfilled, their eyes met, Chan stunned by the unexpected gesture, transformed into a babbling mess. He couldn't believe Kim Seungmin had just kissed him, and he was at a loss for words as Seungmin chuckled at his confusion, with a mischievous glint in his eyes, said, "After all that fiasco, you better be my boyfriend now. There's no way I'm enduring that shit again."
Chan's face lit up with a wide smile as Seungmin sealed their newfound understanding with another sweet kiss. The chaotic day had taken an unexpected turn, leading to the beginning of something beautiful between Chan and Seungmin.