Chapter Text
“Thank you for the show, Pirate Kings! Everyone, give them another round of applause!”
The stage lights still felt warm against his face, even though he hadn’t been the one on stage under them. The band had left almost immediately after the last song, moving too fast, trying really hard to hide the worry on their faces. The struggle.
Seonghwa had stood there for a moment, watching as they’d disappeared, the tension palpable in the air and humming like a note that hadn’t faded completely yet. The next band was already up on stage, getting ready to perform. People kept clapping and talking even as Seonghwa walked away from the audience and headed quickly to the room backstage. An audience unaware of just how much of a challenge tonight’s performance had been.
Seonghwa knew. Because he had been with them from the start; the rehearsals full of uncertainty, the nervous vibes during their very first time playing for the public. As he stepped inside the backstage room, he could tell that the mood had turned completely sour. All four of them were on the edge, their shoulders tense and their movements restless; Seonghwa wasn’t part of the band himself, but they were his friends, and they were not ok. The adrenaline from the stage had turned into something fragile and chaotic.
Still, he tried to cheer them up. "That was really good.” he said softly. “You guys did well."
All eyes were on him, but half of those looks were looks of disbelief.
"No, we did not do well." Wooyoung groaned first, plopping down on the worn-out couch. "We did what we could to make it through the live, but it was not good!"
"Don't say that." Hongjoong shook his head. He looked tired, like he hadn't slept well the past few days. Maybe he hadn’t. "You and San have beautiful voices, you saved us."
"But it's just not the same." San said quietly from his corner, fingers tapping nervously on his knee. “We had our main vocalist for a reason.”
Wooyoung sighed, head dropping back on the couch. He rubbed his face with his hands, letting out a long, exasperated sound. “Yeah, well, Minjun getting arrested for co-organizing illegal gambling doesn’t really help. I doubt he’ll be able to sing from prison. He’ll be in there for at least a couple of years, what are we supposed to do? Go on hiatus?”
“No, we can’t do that.” Hongjoong shook his head. “It’s not like he’s coming back even when he’s released.”
Seonghwa watched them talk worriedly, though he kept his own worries locked in his chest. “The important thing is that the crowd was supportive.” he said softly. “What he did doesn’t seem to have affected people’s opinions about you guys.”
“Yeah, that’s…something, I guess.” Mingi muttered, knitting his fingers together skeptically. “It would be over for us all if they treated us all like criminals.”
Wooyoung threw his hands up in the air. “It still doesn’t solve our problem. There’s only so much me and San can do. We’re going to need a new main vocalist, we can’t just continue like that.”
“No, we can’t.” Hongjoong nodded in agreement. His expression was dark, the furrowed burrows only emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. It was a heavier weight on his shoulders as the leader. Seonghwa was sure that he even blamed himself for not seeing the issue before it had escalated to this. No one had. Everything had been happening behind their backs. But Hongjoong’s sense of responsibility was annoyingly big, and he wouldn’t be able to get over this so fast. “I guess…we’re looking for a new voice.”
Wooyoung and San looked at each other, both concerned. Mingi leaned to the front, pressing his hand against his mouth as a calculating expression slowly spread on his face. “Do you think we’ll be able to find anyone?” San let out quietly. “Our next live is in a few days, if we can’t find someone until then…”
“I don’t want to cancel our live.” Hongjoong said. “But I understand that it’s not easy for you and Wooyoung. We’ll ask around. We’ll figure something out.”
Seonghwa’s gaze drifted slowly, from them to Mingi, who was staring on the floor, looking like he hadn’t heard a thing of anything. “Mingi.” he called out to him, and Mingi blinked, looking up at him. “What’s the matter?”
“Did you space out?” Hongjoong raised an eyebrow. Mingi shook his head slowly.
“I might know someone,” he said. The words were careful, spoken in slight uncertainty, but with a hint of cheerfulness. San tilted his head curiously.
“As in, someone to sing with us?”
“Yeah.” Mingi nodded. “I’ve got a friend. I can call him and ask him if he’d like to try.”
“What friend?” Wooyoung sat up straight again. “You have a friend who sings? How come he’s never come to our lives?”
Mingi smiled apologetically. “He moved to the city a couple of weeks ago, he’s originally from my hometown. We used to perform together before I moved here myself. He’s got a great voice, actually.” he explained. “We’ll just have to see if he fits the band’s vibe, though I have a feeling he’ll be really good.”
“Then call him.” Hongjoong agreed. “And in the meantime, I’ll check for other options, too.”
............................................................................................................................
Morning came in slowly, the light creeping in through the crooked blinds. It swept around the small bedroom and landed straight on Yunho’s face with zero mercy, making him stir unwillingly. Too early. Too. Damn. Early.
He groaned and burrowed deeper into his pillow, refusing to give in and stretching diagonally over the bed, the blankets not willing to release him just yet. He wasn't awake, not present. He didn't want to wake up just yet.
Except, his phone was now also vibrating on the wooden nightstand, causing Yunho even bigger annoyance. It was loud, insistent, and definitely unreasonable for whatever time it was. Yunho tried to ignore it at first, hoping it would just stop. And for a moment, it did, sparing him the extra misery. But then the buzzing started again and Yunho let out a half-coherent curse, reaching blindly for the phone.
"What?" he grunted, slowly turning to lie on his side. "Who is it?"
"You're still sleeping?" a voice almost barked at him on the other end. Yunho groaned, running his fingers through his hair. No fucking way.
"Mingi, what the fuck do you want, it's not even nine yet…"
"Actually, it's nine thirty, and I need you like I've never needed you before."
Yunho blinked, trying to urge the sleep away. His brain was still too foggy and he needed it at full function to be able to understand Mingi properly. His friend could have his very own unique thinking system sometimes, and it definitely wasn't easy to follow if Yunho was barely awake.
"Are you drunk? Are you hitting on me?"
"No and no!" Mingi yelled in frustration. "Get a grip, we need you!"
"Who is we, idiot? And why are you yelling in my ear first thing in the morning?"
"Because this is an emergency!" Mingi insisted impatiently. "We need you to be our vocalist, like, as soon as possible."
Yunho blinked, dropping on his back. He stared up at the ceiling, but didn't really pay attention to it. He let the words sink in properly, while Mingi finally went quiet on the other end of the line. Slowly, his mind began waking up properly, catching up with what his friend was actually asking.
It didn't make it any less confusing.
"When you say "we need you to be our vocalist"...you mean your band?"
"Yes!" Mingi exhaled. "Finally!"
"Pirate Kings?"
"Yes, Yunho, come on, wake up already! I told you what happened with Minjun, didn't I? We don't have a vocalist, but we do have upcoming lives we cannot cancel and Wooyoung and San are both stressing out over being the substitutes!"
Right. He had told Yunho what had happened. And even if he hadn't, Yunho had seen a couple of articles on some local social media. But that was one thing, and Mingi's request was a completely different one.
"Mingi-"
"No, don't tell me you can't." Mingi cut him off frantically. Yunho sighed, rolling his eyes. "You're solo right now, and I know you'll charm Hongjoong the moment you start singing. Come on, you yourself told me you really like our music!"
"I did not say that for you to use it against me like that." Yunho deadpanned. "It's just…it's so sudden, what do you expect?"
"Look, can't you at least help us out with the upcoming shows?" Mingi pleaded. "Your voice is going to fit right in, I know it will. And we'll pay you!"
"It's not about the money, idiot.”
“Alright, then I see no other reason why you would turn this down. I’m not shackling you forever, just help us with those couple shows! Honestly, I can’t believe you need convincing, you love performing.”
Right. Yunho gave the ceiling another eye roll.
He loved performing? Sure he did. And he loved Mingi, too. The two of them hadn’t performed together for a few years, the last time being after high school graduation, before Mingi had left their hometown. But this was too sudden, and the fact that Yunho’s brain was still only half-awake wasn’t exactly helping, either.
Realistically, though…he didn’t have anything better to do at the moment.
He sighed. “Two shows?” he asked so he could confirm.
“Two shows.” Mingi promised. “And if you don’t feel the chemistry after those, you are free to leave. No strings attached.”
“Stop talking like you’re asking me to have sex with your band…” Yunho groaned, only to earn a scoff.
“Yeah, as if you’ve never had sex with more than one person at once. You’re talking to me, in case you forgot. By the way, you didn’t get a haircut, did you?”
“What?” Yunho snorted. “No, what does that have to do with anything?”
“Oh come on, you know ever since your hair grew longer you’ve become even more irresistible to the fans. We can use that.”
“Ok, Mingi, just be honest: do you want me to be your band’s vocalist or do you want to dangle me like a sweet treat in front of your audience and save your asses?”
“Ha ha, very funny. I’ll text you the address, be there in an hour. And bring your guitar!”
And then the line went dead. Yunho froze for a moment, then slowly removed his phone from his ear to look at the screen. Well, wasn’t that a sweet morning call.
“I am going to kill you.” he muttered, dropping the phone next to him with another loud groan.
...................................................................................................................................
The address Mingi texted him turned out to be Hongjoong’s place.
Hongjoong himself opened the door to Yunho, eyeing him up and down, both curious and kind. Yunho wasn’t unfamiliar with their faces; with Mingi in the band, he would often take a look at the performance videos they uploaded on their social media. He had learned to match their name and faces, so he was quite confident that this would help now.
But he had never actually talked to them, and clearly, right now, this was the most important part. Despite his initial whining, Yunho would like to leave a good impression. If not for himself, then at least for Mingi. He was a friend in need, after all, and Yunho didn’t want to make him look like a fool in front of the others.
“Hi.” he said lightly. “You must be Hongjoong.”
Hongjoong stared at him for a long moment, not unkindly, but still firmly. “I suppose you’ve done your homework.” he said. “Yunho, right?”
Yunho nodded with a small smile. “I’m actually following you guys on social media. Mingi really loves being part of the band. Nice to meet you.”
Hongjoong’s mouth twitched into something that almost felt like a smile, but then it was immediately gone again. He nodded and took a step back. “Come on in, the others are already here and waiting.”
The apartment smelled of coffee and some kind of floral fragrance. Yunho followed after Hongjoong obediently, making sure not to bump his guitar on a wall or some furniture. It was a small but comfortable apartment, and Yunho heard the soft chatter even before he was led to the living room. No, it was definitely bigger than his. Immediately, he recognized Mingi’s deep voice. “What did he tell you about me?” he asked, and Hongjoong halted for a moment, turning around to look up at him with a raised eyebrow.
“That you are from his hometown and recently moved here, that you have a great voice, and that he’s confident we’ll like you.” He replied calmly. “Not much, honestly. Come on.”
Yunho nodded at that, and the next moment, they stepped into the living room, where the others were waiting. Mingi was the first to get up, a wide smile brightening his face at Yunho’s sight. Yunho felt a strong urge to kick him the closer he got; that innocent look in his eyes was a complete contrast to his tone during their phone call. Then again, both sides were Mingi; his friend had always been like this. He could get all pushy and clingy when he needed a favour, and once that favour was granted, he would turn into the cutest, most excited human in the world.
So perhaps he did not deserve the kick, after all.
“Thanks for being so quick.” he said, patting his shoulder. Yunho shrugged.
“Well, if you hadn’t made it sound like you’d all die without a vocalist…”
Mingi hummed quietly, gesturing him to sit down where he had just gotten up from, next to another one of the guys, the one Yunho had memorized as Wooyoung. He stared him up and down almost in awe, enough to make Yunho wonder if he was trying to read his aura or something. Slowly, he took the seat with a friendly smile, setting his guitar case down next to him, while Mingi proceeded to sit next to Hongjoong. The last member of the band, San, was standing next to the balcony door, leaning against the frame, arms crossed to his chest and watching Yunho meticulously, too. But none of them seemed hostile, which Yunho decided to take as a good sign.
“So that’s your friend, Yunho.” Wooyoung was the first one to speak. Mingi nodded, eyes gleaming proudly.
“That is him, indeed.”
“He’s hot.” Wooyoung commented, and Yunho raised both eyebrows, both in surprise and amusement.
“You think?” he teased. Mingi grinned.
“Yeah, I know. He gets hotter by the day. The problem is, he’s well aware of that.”
“Oh, give me a break.” Yunho shook his head, while Wooyoung leaned back on the couch with a grin. San’s expression softened as well, effectively breaking the ice even further. “Anyway, I’m Yunho. I’m quite familiar with Pirate Kings and I really enjoy your music. I’m glad that Mingi seems to be in such good hands with you guys.”
Hongjoong nodded, though he turned his gaze towards Mingi with a cryptic look. “Your friend is a charmer.” he commented. Mingi tilted his head with an apologetic smile.
“Oh, I know. I told you, he knows he’s got the looks and the stupid personality to match.”
“Oh, is that what we’ll be doing?” Yunho leaned back, crossing his arms to his chest. He was totally ok with the playful vibes that were already developing between them all, but he wasn’t sure this was the best approach for a first meeting. “Should I tell them how you begged on the phone?”
“No, because we can totally imagine that.” San shook his head with a small smile. “I’m San, I play the keyboard.”
“And I’m Wooyoung, I play the bass.” Wooyoung added, stretching his hand out. Yunho smiled once more and shook Wooyoung’s hand. This was silly, but in such a cute way…
“Nice to meet you all.”
“And as you already know, I’m the drummer, and that’s our leader, Hongjoong.” Mingi patted Hongjoong’s knee. “He can play the guitar for hours, just like you.”
“Good to know.” Yunho hummed. He straightened his back, resting both hands on his knees, and took a good look at everyone once more. He was familiar with them as artists, and he knew some stuff about them through Mingi’s stories, but this was certainly different. “I’m sorry about your situation. I understand it must be tough for you. But I want to be clear about this as well, I…I don’t mind helping out for those couple of shows you have. I’m just not sure I want this to be a permanent thing.”
Nobody spoke, but all eyes fell on Hongjoong. Hongjoong himself was already sweeping Yunho with his gaze again, skeptical and calculative. He leaned to the front, resting his elbows on his knees and knitting his fingers together in front of his mouth. It was difficult to say whether Yunho’s statement had irritated him somehow. His face was serious, but he did not look offended.
In the end, he let out a sound of approval. “I appreciate the honesty.” he said. “But we still have to hear you sing first.”
“Right.” Yunho nodded. “Well, whatever you want me to sing, I’ll do it.”
He reached for his guitar case, fingers brushing over the zipper, while the others shifted softly. The air in the room seemed to be filled with a little bit of tension now, not that Yunho could blame them. If there was one thing he had realized early into this was that Hongjoong at least took this whole thing seriously. Very seriously. And the others seemed like they would follow his lead. Mingi was the only one who didn’t seem nervous, though it almost made Yunho feel nervous instead. If this didn’t work, it was no big deal. They were the ones that had asked his help, after all. For Yunho, there would be no loss if they didn’t like him. But still, Mingi looking so confident ironically made Yunho wonder if he really had what it took.
It wasn’t like he wasn’t confident about his singing skills. He knew his strengths and his weaknesses, and he knew very well his voice was one of his strengths. He just didn’t want Mingi to feel like he had misplaced his trust.
“Do you want to sing Promise, then?” Wooyoung suggested once Yunho had his guitar out and on his lap. “It’s one of our older songs, are you familiar with it?”
“Sure I am.” Yunho nodded, fingers hovering over the strings as he made himself more comfortable. Silence followed, every eye on him, waiting. Yunho strummed softly once, then twice. The sound filled the space as he quietly mouthed the beginning of the song to himself.
And then he started playing.
He didn’t look at any of them, not even Mingi. The lines kept spilling from his lips, rich and controlled. Occasionally, he closed his eyes, letting himself get lost in the vibes of the song. It was one of his favourites, though he wasn’t going to share this fact with anyone, not yet. He opened his eyes, catching a glimpse of them; San was leaning against the wall with a warm smile on his face, while Mingi was staring at him with pride and adoration. Hongjoong was completely quiet next to Mingi, but his shoulders definitely seemed more relaxed. The poker face he had on did not help. Yunho couldn’t see Wooyoung since he was next to him, but he could feel him vibing along, shifting along the rhythm. A small spark of reassurance flickered in Yunho’s stomach.
By the time he sang the last line, it was obvious Mingi was struggling not to jump from his seat and run to him. Once the final chord rang out, the room went completely quiet for a couple of seconds. Yunho waited calmly, his hand still on the strings.
Surprisingly, it was San who spoke first. “I cannot believe Mingi was hiding a goldmine for so long.”
There was no way Mingi would stay quiet after that. He laughed with a smug look, throwing his hands in the air. “I mean, Yunho is living his own life, and there was nothing wrong with Minjun’s voice. But I had a feeling you guys would love him.”
Yunho smiled at his friend’s words, shaking his head. “Stop trying to sell me.”
Wooyoung clapped his hands next to him. “I think you’re exactly what we need, seriously! Hongjoong, what do you say?”
Hongjoong rose slowly from his seat, his expression still unreadable. He wasn’t smiling, he didn’t look disgusted or disappointed…but he kept staring at Yunho, and Yunho refused to look elsewhere. He stared back at him, waiting, his heart now beating a little faster. Maybe it was the way he loved a challenge, or maybe the fact that the others already seemed to want him. But now Yunho himself wanted to be accepted. He wouldn’t be able to walk away if Hongjoong said no. The others had all agreed, so there was no way a different opinion from Hongjoong could override this, right?
Hongjoong stood right in front of him and gave him a subtle nod. “Your voice has a presence.” he said quietly. “You sang like you truly cared for the song. I appreciate that. And your tone does suit our band’s vibe.”
Yunho held back his own smile of triumph. “So does that mean I pass?” he asked. Hongjoong’s face finally softened into something mellow, and he stretched his hand out, just like Wooyoung had done.
“You pass.” he said. “Mingi trusts you, the guys liked it as well…and I’m satisfied. Thank you very much for your help. I’m looking forward to working with you.”
“There he goes again, all formal…” Wooyoung rolled his eyes with a grin. Yunho reached out and shook Hongjoong’s hand, finally allowing himself to flash a mischievous grin. It certainly didn’t feel bad, that accomplishment.
Mingi wasn’t wrong; Yunho was well aware of his own charms and how to use them to get what he wanted. In this case, the outcome hadn’t really mattered to him at first. But he was stubborn, and he himself had realized mid-singing he’d be a great fit for this, even if it was a temporary thing. His competitive side surely wouldn’t be able to take no for an answer. So it was definitely a good thing that Hongjoong hadn’t turned him down with some kind of silly excuse.
Funnily enough, he was already looking forward to the shows.
............................................................................................................................
“So now you’re part of the band?”
“For now, yes. I have to meet with them in the evening to start rehearsals, there’s not much time until the first show. But I promised I’d come with you today, and I wouldn’t cancel that.”
Jongho snorted. "I feel so honored, sir. I bet that was a great boost to your ego, more people applauding your talent."
"It didn't feel bad for sure." Yunho chirped with a shrug. He had left almost immediately after Hongjoon's approval, not wanting to make his friend wait. Like Mingi, Jongho had also moved here from their hometown, though it had been later than Mingi. Jongho was a year younger than them, and he had come to the city about three years ago, but he had stayed in touch with Yunho through calls and visits. "Are you gonna tell me where we're going now?"
"Yes, I am.” Jongho nodded. “I want to buy a present for Yeosang. It’s our two-year anniversary.”
“It is?” Yunho’s eyes went wide open, then he hummed happily. “Time just flies, doesn’t it? I didn’t even realize…”
“Yeah, I had a feeling.” Jongho said with a defeated smile. “Anyway, we were walking by a store about a month ago and he saw this jewelry box and he really liked it. We stood and stared for like, five minutes and he seemed totally in love with it. I know he never went back to buy it himself, so I want to get it for him.”
“What a sweet boyfriend.” Yunho teased. "And where is that store exactly?"
Jongho pointed across the street with his finger. "Right over there." he said.
Yunho followed his finger with his stare. It was at the corner of the street, and just by taking a look at the storefront, Yunho wondered if he had perhaps slipped into a 90s movie.
The word MARS was written in slightly faded letters across the weathered sign above the door. As they made their way slowly towards it, Yunho was able to take in more details. The place was old for sure. It had clearly existed long before any of the other stores around. There were fairy lights above the door and the windows, though they weren't on at the moment since there was still daylight. Shutters in muted sea-green hung on either side of the large front windows, the paint chipped here and there. Through the windows, Yunho saw piles of old books, a table lamp, teapots with delicate handles, a couple of clocks…
He raised both eyebrows. “An antique shop?” he said in disbelief. Jongho nodded, eyeing the items with a concerned look.
“Yeah, but…I don’t see the box anywhere, I hope it wasn’t sold…come on, let’s go inside to ask.”
Before Yunho could say anything, Jongho was already pushing the door open, a bell ringing as he stepped inside. With his eyebrows still raised, Yunho followed after him.
The place inside was mostly quiet, though he could hear some piece of classical music playing from somewhere further in. There was a faint, pleasant scent of strawberry in the air, as well as the smell of polished wood. It didn’t smell dusty at all. Yunho looked around carefully; the store was small and full, but not cluttered. Every corner had been arranged with a specific thought in mind, that much was clear. “It’s beautiful.” Jongho commented quietly, eyes sweeping up and down the shelves and the furniture in awe.
Yunho wasn’t sure what about it was beautiful, but he didn’t say anything. It was neat for sure, he could admit that. There was a big wooden table with a neat display of porcelain teacups and next to it, a rocking chair that looked like it had come straight from two centuries ago. Another smaller table in a corner was decorated with little boxes on top, and on another corner, there was a collection of different pendulum clocks and ornate mirrors.
The place wasn’t lacking in quantity or quality. It just really wasn’t a place Yunho would visit on his own.
Then, as they walked further inside, they finally saw someone.
It was a guy that seemed to be in his late twenties, sitting behind a desk. He had dark hair and was wearing an oversized dark green knitted sweater. But what actually caught Yunho’s attention wasn’t any of that. It was the fact that the guy was casually sitting there, knitting. Knitting what seemed to be a pair of black socks.
He opened his mouth, completely dumbfounded, but before he could say a word, Jongho elbowed him and took one step to the front. “Um…hello?” he said curiously, and the guy lifted his gaze from what he was knitting, eyeing them both completely confused for a second.
Then his expression cleared, and his eyes went wide open in realization. “Oh, I’m sorry.” he said apologetically, putting his needles down on the desk and quickly standing up. “I didn’t hear you coming in, I was too distracted.”
Clearly, Yunho thought, wondering if the grimace he felt on his face was actually showing. Jongho shook his head, though, unbothered.
“It’s ok, we…I wanted to ask you about an item.”
“Of course.” the young man walked around the desk and finally stood in front of them. “I’m Seonghwa, what can I help you with?”
His tone was kind and professional, and his smile was soft, but all of that on a typical level. Jongho nodded, while Yunho crossed his arms to his chest and tilted his head. Seonghwa. It was a beautiful name.
“Yes, so…” Jongho turned around, gesturing over the windows. “You had a jewellery box there, heart-shaped? But I don’t see it anymore, is it sold?”
Seonghwa seemed to understand immediately which item Jongho was talking about. His eyes sparkled in acknowledgment, the lines of his face softening even more. He nodded at Jongho; it was as if Yunho didn’t even exist. “I know which one you mean.” he said, turning his back on them and heading quickly towards an unseen corner. Jongho craned his neck to take a better look, while Yunho felt a frown forming on his face. “I tend to rearrange the items from time to time, so don’t worry. It’s still here, come take a look.” There was a dressing table in beige and gold over there in that corner, and once Yunho and Jongho got closer, they realized that there were a couple of jewellery boxes placed on it. “I suppose you mean this one?” Seonghwa asked, pointing at the one on the right.
Jongho’s whole face brightened. It was indeed a heart-shaped box in indigo blue, framed by ornate gold beading and delicate floral motifs along the edges. There was a cluster of sculpted golden roses on the bottom side of the lid, while two butterflies adorned in glittering shades of pink sat at each side of the top. “This is it, yes!” he said enthusiastically, and Seonghwa smiled again. “Can I take a look at it?”
“Of course.”
“I’ll just look around, don’t mind me.” Yunho announced loudly, but Seonghwa didn’t seem to care and Jongho barely nodded before walking closer to the dressing table. Yunho rolled his eyes and wandered a few steps away, pretending to be studying a shelf of old trinkets. But he kept his ears open and locked on the conversation that was taking place behind him. He kept stealing glances towards Seonghwa and the kind expression on his face as he kept talking to Jongho about the box.
“This one is from the 1950s, and it’s handmade, hence the slightly different details on each side. It’s not easy to find something so carefully crafted nowadays.”
“Clearly.” Yunho muttered under his breath, but Jongho seemed delighted by the information.
“It’s beautiful.” He said with a nod. “It’s exactly what Yeosang wants.”
Seonghwa smiled. “Then I think you’re on the right track.”
“I’ll take it.”
Yunho sighed quietly in relief. At least that meant that they didn’t have to spend an hour in this place. He picked up a small brass compass, brushing his thumb over it as Jongho and Seonghwa headed back to the desk so he could pay for it. Yunho had another look around the store; it wasn’t that it was ugly, it just…really didn’t feel like a place he’d want to spend hours at. He wasn’t interested in all that old stuff, even though he admitted that they all looked precious.
Usually, Jongho wasn’t much interested, either, but he had taken quite an interest ever since he had started dating Yeosang. The guy had some insane amount of love for antiques and other similar stuff. He could talk about an old clock’s history for ages, or the details on a vintage table or a pair of earrings. Yunho had met him a few times during those two years, and he was a lovely person. Their interests just weren’t the same.
Not that this whole present thing was any of his business.
“Yunho, I’m done!”
Jongho’s voice made him twitch. He put the compass down with a smile as Jongho approached him, now holding a bag with the box inside. Behind him, Seonghwa was still standing with a mildly content look on his face. “So, you got it.” he commented as casually as he could, and Jongho nodded.
“I did. We can go now.” he said, then turned to Seonghwa once more. “Thank you very much for your help.”
Seonghwa gave him a small, courteous smile. “I’m glad I was able to help. Take good care of the box.”
“Don’t worry.” Jongho promised. Yunho wanted to bang his head against the nearest wall.
“That guy’s weird.” he said the moment they were outside the store. Jongho rolled his eyes with a defeated stare, as if he had expected exactly that attitude.
“Why, because he didn’t seem interested in you? Sometimes it can happen, Yunho, it’s not the end of the world.”
Yunho pursed his lips as they started walking down the street. “Don’t tell me you didn’t get a weird vibe, too. He feels…I don’t know, like he’s from older times or something.”
“He’s probably our age, Yunho, give it a break.”
“He was knitting when we went in!” Yunho pointed out, unable to hold back now that they were away and they couldn’t be heard. “Do you know many people our age who knit? And who would work at an antique store at our age?”
Jongho shook his head with a sigh. “I still think your main issue is that he didn’t pay attention to you. Knitting isn’t only for older people, Yunho. Leave him alone, you don’t have to charm everyone.”
Yunho bit back the answer that threatened to spill from his lips. Ok, maybe he was a bit offended that Seonghwa had barely looked at him. Sure, why would he when Jongho was his main customer? But it still made Yunho feel a little off. It was arrogant, maybe, but it sure was a rare thing for him to walk into a room and not have almost everyone’s attention. People called him “charismatic” and “energetic”, the heart of a party. Yunho himself preferred to be in a good mood, and to find himself in situations where the vibes were positive.
So yeah, Seonghwa ignoring him like that had definitely left a foul taste in his mouth.
He looked at Jongho again, but Jongho was busy staring at the present inside the bag with a tender look on his face. Damn, that was a lot of love in his eyes.
“I guess young people can have old-fashioned tastes, too.” he shrugged, tilting his head. “Your boyfriend’s taste is also a little old-fashioned.”
At that, Jongho shot him a side glance, and Yunho didn’t miss the murderous layer in it. Jongho was usually easy to talk to, and he could let a lot of things slide. But when it came to certain topics, he was great at giving that stare. And one of those topics was his boyfriend.
Not that Yunho didn’t know that already.
“My boyfriend’s taste can be whatever he wants it to be and you don’t get an opinion.” Jongho said, his tone soft but not without a warning. Yunho nodded with a smile and a teasing groan.
“Alright, alright, relax…I’m just saying, I can’t picture myself spending so much money for something like that…I didn’t hear how much you paid for it but it must cost a fortune.”
“I’m not really surprised, Yunho.” Jongho said calmly. “You of all people would definitely not get what it means. When was the last time you were in a relationship for more than a couple of months?”
Yunho narrowed his eyes, feeling almost scandalized. “Are you judging me because I don’t do relationships?”
“Not really?”Jongo retorted. “I have nothing to judge, it’s your life. You’ve never lied to anyone or cheated or anyone. You make it very clear that you’re not a relationship guy. But I do feel like you’re judging me a little.”
“What? No, I’m not, I’m really happy for you guys!” Yunho protested. “It’s just…I don’t know, I guess romantic things tend to feel cheesy after some point.”
For him, at least. He couldn’t remember the last time he had been actually romantic with someone. Kind, fun, delicate…even cute, maybe. But romantic? Not at all. He had left such sentiments behind, only needing to enjoy the moment. And he was ok with that. People were drawn to it, after all, and Yunho was drinking up all the attention greedily, thriving in the realization that he could pretty much have whoever he wanted. No promises, no attachments, just having fun in the moment.
Finally, Jongho’s face softened again. “You know…you’re my friend and I only want good things for you…but sometimes, you do make me wish you would get your heart broken one day, just a little bit.”
Yunho couldn’t control the laugh that emitted from the depths of his heart. He threw his head back, covering his mouth with his hand. “Oh, how nice of you, seriously…I bet you’re going to love seeing me miserable like a good friend.”
“I’m going to stand by your side and hold your hand and all.” Jongho promised. “But yeah, it will probably be very interesting, too. Anyway, enough bickering. I honestly wish you good luck, though I’m pretty sure you won’t need it. Mingi is right, you’ll do great with the band.”
Yunho nodded. “And you’ll do great with the present. Don’t listen to me, I’m really happy for you two and I bet Yeosang is going to be thrilled that you bought this for him.”
As long as his friends were happy, Yunho was happy. He could tease, but in the end, nothing was to be taken seriously.
...................................................................................................................................
The following days went by in a heartbeat. Hectic, challenging, but also, quite interesting.
Rehearsals were intense. That part, Yunho was ok with. He had expected it, and he was grateful for it. They took as much time as they could to learn, to adjust whatever had to be adjusted. He spent a lot of time learning the setlist, and even practiced extra with Mingi back at his place. He endured it all because it was part of the process, and he didn’t want to let himself down. Plus, it was a good opportunity for him, too. He wasn’t going to go up on stage and leave a bad impression.
And that also gave him a lot of time to get to know the others, too. Hongjoong was the one who kept his distance the most, but he was never unfriendly. He was the most professional of them all, truly a leader. Most of the times that he talked to Yunho, it was about the music, the lyrics, whether he needed to change anything…Yunho could tell he was still being tested, but he didn’t really mind. It was normal.
San was quieter, but he watched Yunho in a different way. Not testing or judging, just curious. He took part in the conversations during breaks, and he made sure to help Yunho whenever he asked.
And then there was Wooyoung.
He was a ball of fire and energy. Sociable in a way that he’d just decided Yunho was his friend and Yunho had no way of objecting to it. After Mingi, he was the friendliest, gravitating towards Yunho in a way that felt natural and effortless. Bright and bubbly and always eager to help. Simply put, he was a delight, and he matched Yunho’s energy perfectly.
So when all the days passed and all the rehearsals were done, and the time to step on stage finally arrived, Yunho didn’t feel the slightest hint of nervousness. If anything, he was excited to finally show his skills and everything they had worked on. And he was also impatient to see the crowd.
“Don’t get too excited.” Mingi had told him at some point. “It’s not like we’re big names in the industry or whatever.”
And he was right; financially at least, the band was still not popular enough to earn them incomes that came with luxuries. They all had to sacrifice a lot to do this.
It didn’t matter. The passion was there, and that’s all Yunho needed.
It was Wooyoung who grabbed his hand tightly, smiling at him. “Ready?” he said. “I bet they’re gonna love you.”
“That’s what I’m counting on.” Yunho smiled back at him, only to have Mingi pat his shoulder.
“You’re gonna charm everyone, like always.”
At that moment, Yunho truly believed that.
.............................................................................................................
The show was amazing.
By the third song, Yunho’s energy was through the roof. He was ecstatic, singing his lungs out and jumping up and down on the stage to interact with the others. Wooyoung matched those vibes perfectly; even San wouldn’t stop smiling and bobbing his head along. Mingi had to struggle to not just jump from behind the drums, and Hongjoong…
The moment the last song ended, Hongjoong turned to look at Yunho over his shoulder, and flashed him a bright, knowing smile of approval.
And that…that was the ultimate reward.
They stumbled offstage laughing, celebrating. It was a state of complete euphoria, as if this was a world contest and they had just won first place. Mingi and Wooyoung were loud and breathless, but San and Hongjoong also looked happy. “The crowd loved him.” Mingi said proudly, throwing an arm around Yunho’s shoulders. “I told you he would make a great choice.”
Hongjoong crossed his arms to his chest, leaning back on the wall, shaking his head. “You certainly bring an interesting flavour into the band.” he told Yunho. Even now, he was careful with his words, making sure not to exaggerate or say something he would have to take back later. But Yunho didn’t mind at all, he knew it wasn’t personal. It was Hongjoong’s way of protecting what they had built. Yunho respected that. “That was a really good performance.”
Yunho smiled. “Well, I didn’t do it alone. We did it together.”
“How humble of you.” Mingi teased, while Wooyoung walked up to the door of the room and took a look outside at the corridor. Immediately, he squealed in excitement.
“Oh, here he is! Seonghwa! Come in!”
Yunho glanced at Mingi, whose smile grew wider. “Who’s he calling?”
“His best friend. Well, Hongjoong’s, too. Actually, he’s kind of the band’s best friend. Sometimes he’s pretty much our manager.”
Yunho looked back at Wooyoung, who was now dragging someone inside; a guy with dark hair slightly slicked back, just a couple of bangs falling to the front. He was wearing a pair of simple blue jeans and a plain black jacket over a white sweater. His cheeks were a little red, as if he had come here running.
Then the gears started turning in Yunho’s brain. The face. The name.
Seonghwa.
The guy from the antique shop.
Seonghwa let Wooyoung drag him in, smiling apologetically. “I missed it, didn’t I? I’m so sorry, I couldn’t leave earlier…how did it go? Were you guys ok?”
“It went great.” San assured him, while Wooyoung kept clinging onto his elbow. “I think it’s safe to say the people already love Yunho.”
“Oh, yeah, there’s Yunho!” Wooyoung chirped, pushing Seonghwa towards him. “Seonghwa, this is Yunho. Yunho, this is Seonghwa!”
And finally, Seonghwa gave him a proper look and a soft bow with his head. Yunho did the same, a quick smile forming on his lips. He offered his hand, watching him closely for any reaction. There was no way he could ignore him this time, right?
“I didn’t think I’d see you again so soon.” he teased. Seonghwa shook his hand, kind but formal, and blinked at him, a bit puzzled.
“So you’re Yunho.” he said, tilting his head a little, brows knitting together. “Have we met before?”
…Yunho’s smile faltered.
What?
He didn’t remember.
Was he serious?
Something sharp twisted inside his chest; this wasn’t just blatant rejection. Seonghwa hadn’t even acknowledged him last time, had he? People didn’t usually ignore Yunho. People didn’t forget Yunho. His presence was always noticeable, and no one could deny that. There was a reason the crowd had been so enthusiastic with him tonight.
His jaw tightened. “Heart-shaped jewelry box.” he said, trying his best to keep his tone casual, friendly. In reality, he was actually a little irritated. Seonghwa blinked. “A few days ago, my friend wanted to buy it.”
Seonghwa blinked again, and a third time. Yunho wanted to pull his hand back, but he forced himself to stay still.
Recognition came slowly; not a spark, just a soft, subtle shift. “Oh.” Seonghwa said eventually. “Right. Heart-shaped jewelry box, right. Your friend seemed really happy with it. I’m sorry, I guess I was too focused on him. Nice to meet you, properly.”
It still didn’t feel…enough.
Yunho wondered if he was just perhaps reading too much into it. “Pity you didn’t get to see the show.” he continued playfully. “I’m more than just Jongho’s friend, but clearly the shop isn’t the best place for me to show all my qualities.”
Seonghwa’s eyes still kept their kindness, but he pulled his hand back with a nod. “As long as the guys are ok with you, that’s what matters.” he said, and it almost felt like he was a teacher, and Yunho his student. As if he was trying to help him learn a lesson. Whatever impression Yunho wanted to leave on him, it certainly wasn’t working. Something annoying gnawed at Yunho; people always ended up dazzled by him. If not from the first meeting, then definitely the second. But here Seonghwa was, two meetings in, and nothing seemed to be working. Heck, he didn’t even remember the first meeting.
And he had no time to say anything, because Wooyoung was already pulling Seonghwa again, tugging at his sleeve. “Alright, now that you’ve met him, let’s go outside and take some photos!”
Seonghwa’s attention shifted to his friend. Immediately, as if he wasn’t just talking to Yunho a minute earlier. The two of them walked outside, and Yunho stood there, shifting his weight from one foot to another.
No second looks.
Seonghwa barely seemed to care. It was as if the only thing he’d cared about was whether Yunho was good enough to help the band. He didn’t seem to be interested in Yunho himself.
“Ooooh, I know that look.” Mingi’s voice echoed in his ears from somewhere on his right. “Your charms didn’t work? Unbelievable.”
Yunho scoffed, shoving his elbow in Mingi’s ribs, but despite the pained yelp, his friend just laughed. “What the hell is wrong with him?” he protested, unable to hide his irritation anymore. With the corner of his eye, he caught Hongjoong raising an eyebrow at him, while San shook his head with a cryptic smile.
Mingi patted his shoulder. “I’m sorry, Yunho, but there are people in this world you can’t put under a spell, after all.”
Yunho rolled his eyes. Who did Seonghwa think he was? Dismissing Yunho once was rude already, but twice? And act like it wasn’t a big deal? Yunho’s pride was not willing to let this go, not just yet. And maybe it was childish, maybe it was selfish, maybe it was unprofessional. And worst of all, maybe it was addictive.
But Yunho liked challenges. And Seonghwa had just made himself Yunho’s new challenge.
He crossed his arms to his chest, feeling the flames of adrenaline licking at his insides. The thrill of a pursuit. “Yeah?” he hummed. “I bet I can change that. Give me a month, and I’ll have him completely obsessed with me.”