As Thick As Thieves
Title: As Thick As Thieves
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: Hyuksu
Genre: AU!Criminal, Romance
Beta: paradigm_twist
Summary: A criminal strikes an unlikely partnership, and while his motives are unclear, the other can't help but agree to his terms for reasons of his own.
-
Junsu sighed as he dumped the files on the dashboard of the car, rubbing his temple, trying to ease the mild throbbing as he took a break from the mass of information flooding his mind.
"I'm surprised you contacted me." Junsu turned his head towards the man who occupied his passenger seat, wearing a dark, casual suit and carrying himself with sophistication. Hyukjae gave a slanted look. "I was under the impression that this would at least be something fascinating. Or at least remotely difficult."
Junsu turned his head, noting the rather reluctant look. "What is it?"
Hyukjae exhaled. "I assumed you had higher standards considering I never had anyone pursue me so persistently. It's discouraging to know that you gave up on capturing this small time larcenist. So what does that compare me to?" He asked, slightly insulted. "I'd rather not demote myself to that of one of your sudoku puzzles."
Junsu narrowed his eyes. "I'm not here to stroke your pride. Just do something about it and ease my misery."
"But I enjoy watching you suffer." Hyukjae said offhandedly, earning a fierce glare that was brushed aside. "You demanded honesty in our partnership. I'm simply doing as you asked."
He ignored his comment, returning his own honesty. "Then know that I prefer pursuing other high end cases, rather than the small ones who needlessly take up my time and energy."
Hyukjae gave a devious smile. "Then am I a part of the high profile cases?"
Junsu refused to answer as he handed one of the files over to him. "This man has eluded us long enough... Please." He added sincerely.
With a quick glance his way, Hyukjae read through the files, his eyes scanning each word when he promptly closed them and returned them to the dashboard. With a confident smile, he opened the passenger door and stepped outside.
-
Few people walked past him slowly. Junsu straightened his shoulders every so often, eyes searching as he stood on the waxed tiled floors.
"I'm disappointed." The familiar voice said. "You barely gave a second glance to the paintings."
He turned his head to see Hyukjae standing beside him, following as they move from one painting to another, before stopping before a particular painting. Junsu swallowed slightly as he glanced at it. "It's not a real interest of mine." He admitted. He heard the man beside him chuckled quietly.
"If you want to truly succeed in this division of yours, you should brush up on your art history." Hyukjae insisted, his eyes staring at a particular piece in front of him, admiring every stroke brushed across the aged canvas.
"Is there a reason why you asked to meet here?" He asked flatly. Hyukjae gave a firm smile.
"Must there always be a work-related reason?" He asked, laughing slightly. "Learn to enjoy yourself. Relax from this hectic lifestyle you lead."
"If there were less cases on my desk, then I might be able to take you up on that offer." Junsu said. "Until then, it's endless reports on stolen items, forged copies and destroyed pieces."
At his last word, Hyukjae's eyes had narrowed; his expression hardened instantly.
"Anyone who dares to destroy masterpieces that are beyond their years should have their hands cut off." He uttered coldly, eyes focused still on the painting, Junsu followed his gaze, trying to see what his partner was entranced by.
It was then he felt Hyukjae leaned in closely, speaking quietly by his ear. "Thursday at four by the Jangso Pier." He turned to ask him further but was met with an empty space beside him. He looked around, hoping for even a glimpse. Hyukjae had already left.
-
Junsu stared at the man before him, stunned as his eyes examined the collection before him. All of them were perfectly intact.
"Brilliant." He complimented, gesturing for the agent who held the man in question to be taken away.
"I'd like to think so." Hyukjae returned proudly, walking round the littered room.
"Traitor!"
They both glanced at the man taken into custody as he was being pulled towards the car.
"He was a fool to think my loyalty laid with him." Hyukjae said quietly, visibly repulsed as he lowered his head. "The evidence is still there for the taking. The conviction should go smoothly. I wished the same could be said for this operation." He said nastily, straightening his ruffled shirt.
"Thank you." Junsu offered gratefully despite the other's annoyance, an attempted smile tracing his lips. The said man stepped towards him silently, his hands straightening the mess of Junsu's tie and tightening the edge.
"If you look like that, it'll be difficult telling you apart from the rest of us." Hyukjae said coyly, stepping away as the remaining agents had slipped past, disappearing entirely out of sight.
His agent whistled. "You must have something really good on him for him to even decide to help us."
Junsu couldn't give a complete answer because in truth, he had nothing on the man. Nothing that could force his cooperation.
They had knew one another through their frequent encounters; each one fleeting and allusive as the next, never once able to apprehend the man in custody. It was then did he realize it was the beginning of their game, one he was willing to continue playing.
One day he had came to a cleaned out building after a faulty tip, surprised to find a card addressed to him lying on the center of the floor. The call instructed him to another rooftop where he met Hyukjae, offering him information on some wanted individuals.
"I thought you white collar criminals never sided with the enemy?" He had asked.
"I felt I needed a change." Hyukjae said easily.
Junsu was wary of such a good deal and asked what he wanted in exchange for his cooperation. Hyukjae had only smirked and replied,
"To be as thick as thieves."
Junsu furrowed his eyebrows. Foreign languages had never been his strongest suit and he had no idea what he meant. He asked again for some explanation but Hyukjae never gave another clue.
Up till now, they had remained as unofficial partners. Only two of his most trusted colleagues knew of their deal. With the information that occasionally came through, Junsu was grateful but wary of such a source. It was later that he decided that Hyukjae was simply eliminating competition. Although it didn't feel right, he never thought of Hyukjae as a man who would do something so underhandedly. Or at least without any good reasons.
He sometimes warned himself from stepping in too closely; to view their relationship as a strictly professional one.
Yet, Junsu took time to examine his partner carefully with every meeting. Observing how he worked, studying his intelligence, his endearment towards the study of art; silently awed by his cunning abilities. Unknowingly taunting him with those eyes, those lips. The very essence of the man was enough to capture his emotions. Yet quite cruelly, considering he wasn't able to do the same.
Like an addicting puzzle, he was unable to fully keep the man entirely away from his thoughts. And leaving him wondering about his earlier statement.
Where exactly did Hyukjae's loyalty lie?
-
He was utterly exhausted as he leaned back against the wooden desk, cringing as the alcohol took its subtle effect, reminding him precisely why he didn't drink. Ignoring the feeling, he reached towards some files that laid beneath the mess of napkins and plastic plates, deciding to busy himself by slowly working his way back into his routine.
"Congratulations on solving yet another case."
He turned around, slightly surprised to see his partner behind him.
"What are you doing here?" He asked, aware of the fact that only the two of them stood in the secluded office.
Hyukjae walked in front of him, lightly walking over the leftover mess that occurred from the earlier celebration, his eyes scanning the balloons that held messages etched across. "I was hoping to catch the party in action. It seemed like I've missed it."
"I doubt a birthday celebration would have you willingly walking into a federal building. It's not a risk worth taking from your point of view."
"The risks I take never really did make much sense to others." Hyukjae acknowledged. "I wonder how many sleepless nights I gave you, questioning my reasons why." Junsu felt his cheeks flushed. He refused to admit to it, but his silence had said enough. "It's endearing to know I've caught one of the best investigators on my case."
"Were I truly the best, I would have arrested you ages ago."
"And here I was, thinking that my actual skill may have something to do with that." Hyukjae said in mock hurt.
Junsu raised his gaze to meet his. "There has to be some reason why exactly you're giving me such information. Unless you've truly decided to work for the other team."
Hyukjae scoffed. "This isn't charity. I've kept track of every closed case and am calculating my worthiness. Eventually I'll have it paid back to me in full."
Junsu gave a sideways glance. "If you expect a free pass from the crimes you've done before, then I suggest you start thinking of something else."
Hyukjae arched an eyebrow. "Do you always disregard your own birthday to interrogate innocent bystanders?"
"You're hardly innocent. You've stolen countless artwork. Handle forgeries and other charges-"
"Those have yet to stick." Hyukjae interjected. "Considering the lack of proof you're able to use against me, you should learn to keep a better eye out."
Rather than feeling insulted, he felt intrigued by this partner of his. His gaze followed as Hyukjae stood only inches away from him, his fingers tracing the string of a balloon. With a sly smile, Hyukjae asked, "Would you like a hint?"
He raised his gaze to meet his eyes. Hyukjae was standing dangerously close, his hands tracing the edges of his blazer. He composed himself as well as he could, but he doubted that Hyukjae's hands could feel his excited heart raced from the tension between them.
He closed his eyes as Hyukjae pressed his lips against his, his hands clutching the edge of the wooden table to keep himself steady. Rather then shoving him aside, he simply relaxed, letting his partner do as he desired.
Even as he pulled away, Hyukjae had reached in for another brief kiss, smiling as he maintained their close distance.
"Happy birthday." He whispered alluringly.
His hands lowered from his chest as he shifted aside, striding towards the door as Junsu turned his eyes towards him.
"I will catch you." He declared, his voice lowered as the other turned back in his direction, hand lingered on the door.
Hyukjae merely smirked. "I expect nothing less from you Agent Kim."
He found the edges of his lips twitched upward, hands tightening their grip on the desk. His thoughts circling about the double meaning.
Caught up in the restrictions of this raw emotion, one that demanded he listen without relenting. He didn't mind being its pawn. He wholeheartedly refused to stop playing this game, knowing full well that one day, Hyukjae will surely be his.
-
A/N: I was looking up some random english sayings when I came across that one. "As thick as thieves" means to be close friends, but I'm aiming for that to just be the first step ^^. Been into white collar lately because of the show called "White collar," at this rate I may be writing cia agents next @.@
Meanwhile, moving atm and not sure if I'll be able to post, hoping we have connection over there if anything ><. Edit: Have very limited connection .-.
Hyuksu writers and readers~ To hyuk_su ^^
Rating: PG-13
Pairing: Hyuksu
Genre: AU!Criminal, Romance
Beta: paradigm_twist
Summary: A criminal strikes an unlikely partnership, and while his motives are unclear, the other can't help but agree to his terms for reasons of his own.
-
Junsu sighed as he dumped the files on the dashboard of the car, rubbing his temple, trying to ease the mild throbbing as he took a break from the mass of information flooding his mind.
"I'm surprised you contacted me." Junsu turned his head towards the man who occupied his passenger seat, wearing a dark, casual suit and carrying himself with sophistication. Hyukjae gave a slanted look. "I was under the impression that this would at least be something fascinating. Or at least remotely difficult."
Junsu turned his head, noting the rather reluctant look. "What is it?"
Hyukjae exhaled. "I assumed you had higher standards considering I never had anyone pursue me so persistently. It's discouraging to know that you gave up on capturing this small time larcenist. So what does that compare me to?" He asked, slightly insulted. "I'd rather not demote myself to that of one of your sudoku puzzles."
Junsu narrowed his eyes. "I'm not here to stroke your pride. Just do something about it and ease my misery."
"But I enjoy watching you suffer." Hyukjae said offhandedly, earning a fierce glare that was brushed aside. "You demanded honesty in our partnership. I'm simply doing as you asked."
He ignored his comment, returning his own honesty. "Then know that I prefer pursuing other high end cases, rather than the small ones who needlessly take up my time and energy."
Hyukjae gave a devious smile. "Then am I a part of the high profile cases?"
Junsu refused to answer as he handed one of the files over to him. "This man has eluded us long enough... Please." He added sincerely.
With a quick glance his way, Hyukjae read through the files, his eyes scanning each word when he promptly closed them and returned them to the dashboard. With a confident smile, he opened the passenger door and stepped outside.
-
Few people walked past him slowly. Junsu straightened his shoulders every so often, eyes searching as he stood on the waxed tiled floors.
"I'm disappointed." The familiar voice said. "You barely gave a second glance to the paintings."
He turned his head to see Hyukjae standing beside him, following as they move from one painting to another, before stopping before a particular painting. Junsu swallowed slightly as he glanced at it. "It's not a real interest of mine." He admitted. He heard the man beside him chuckled quietly.
"If you want to truly succeed in this division of yours, you should brush up on your art history." Hyukjae insisted, his eyes staring at a particular piece in front of him, admiring every stroke brushed across the aged canvas.
"Is there a reason why you asked to meet here?" He asked flatly. Hyukjae gave a firm smile.
"Must there always be a work-related reason?" He asked, laughing slightly. "Learn to enjoy yourself. Relax from this hectic lifestyle you lead."
"If there were less cases on my desk, then I might be able to take you up on that offer." Junsu said. "Until then, it's endless reports on stolen items, forged copies and destroyed pieces."
At his last word, Hyukjae's eyes had narrowed; his expression hardened instantly.
"Anyone who dares to destroy masterpieces that are beyond their years should have their hands cut off." He uttered coldly, eyes focused still on the painting, Junsu followed his gaze, trying to see what his partner was entranced by.
It was then he felt Hyukjae leaned in closely, speaking quietly by his ear. "Thursday at four by the Jangso Pier." He turned to ask him further but was met with an empty space beside him. He looked around, hoping for even a glimpse. Hyukjae had already left.
-
Junsu stared at the man before him, stunned as his eyes examined the collection before him. All of them were perfectly intact.
"Brilliant." He complimented, gesturing for the agent who held the man in question to be taken away.
"I'd like to think so." Hyukjae returned proudly, walking round the littered room.
"Traitor!"
They both glanced at the man taken into custody as he was being pulled towards the car.
"He was a fool to think my loyalty laid with him." Hyukjae said quietly, visibly repulsed as he lowered his head. "The evidence is still there for the taking. The conviction should go smoothly. I wished the same could be said for this operation." He said nastily, straightening his ruffled shirt.
"Thank you." Junsu offered gratefully despite the other's annoyance, an attempted smile tracing his lips. The said man stepped towards him silently, his hands straightening the mess of Junsu's tie and tightening the edge.
"If you look like that, it'll be difficult telling you apart from the rest of us." Hyukjae said coyly, stepping away as the remaining agents had slipped past, disappearing entirely out of sight.
His agent whistled. "You must have something really good on him for him to even decide to help us."
Junsu couldn't give a complete answer because in truth, he had nothing on the man. Nothing that could force his cooperation.
They had knew one another through their frequent encounters; each one fleeting and allusive as the next, never once able to apprehend the man in custody. It was then did he realize it was the beginning of their game, one he was willing to continue playing.
One day he had came to a cleaned out building after a faulty tip, surprised to find a card addressed to him lying on the center of the floor. The call instructed him to another rooftop where he met Hyukjae, offering him information on some wanted individuals.
"I thought you white collar criminals never sided with the enemy?" He had asked.
"I felt I needed a change." Hyukjae said easily.
Junsu was wary of such a good deal and asked what he wanted in exchange for his cooperation. Hyukjae had only smirked and replied,
"To be as thick as thieves."
Junsu furrowed his eyebrows. Foreign languages had never been his strongest suit and he had no idea what he meant. He asked again for some explanation but Hyukjae never gave another clue.
Up till now, they had remained as unofficial partners. Only two of his most trusted colleagues knew of their deal. With the information that occasionally came through, Junsu was grateful but wary of such a source. It was later that he decided that Hyukjae was simply eliminating competition. Although it didn't feel right, he never thought of Hyukjae as a man who would do something so underhandedly. Or at least without any good reasons.
He sometimes warned himself from stepping in too closely; to view their relationship as a strictly professional one.
Yet, Junsu took time to examine his partner carefully with every meeting. Observing how he worked, studying his intelligence, his endearment towards the study of art; silently awed by his cunning abilities. Unknowingly taunting him with those eyes, those lips. The very essence of the man was enough to capture his emotions. Yet quite cruelly, considering he wasn't able to do the same.
Like an addicting puzzle, he was unable to fully keep the man entirely away from his thoughts. And leaving him wondering about his earlier statement.
Where exactly did Hyukjae's loyalty lie?
-
He was utterly exhausted as he leaned back against the wooden desk, cringing as the alcohol took its subtle effect, reminding him precisely why he didn't drink. Ignoring the feeling, he reached towards some files that laid beneath the mess of napkins and plastic plates, deciding to busy himself by slowly working his way back into his routine.
"Congratulations on solving yet another case."
He turned around, slightly surprised to see his partner behind him.
"What are you doing here?" He asked, aware of the fact that only the two of them stood in the secluded office.
Hyukjae walked in front of him, lightly walking over the leftover mess that occurred from the earlier celebration, his eyes scanning the balloons that held messages etched across. "I was hoping to catch the party in action. It seemed like I've missed it."
"I doubt a birthday celebration would have you willingly walking into a federal building. It's not a risk worth taking from your point of view."
"The risks I take never really did make much sense to others." Hyukjae acknowledged. "I wonder how many sleepless nights I gave you, questioning my reasons why." Junsu felt his cheeks flushed. He refused to admit to it, but his silence had said enough. "It's endearing to know I've caught one of the best investigators on my case."
"Were I truly the best, I would have arrested you ages ago."
"And here I was, thinking that my actual skill may have something to do with that." Hyukjae said in mock hurt.
Junsu raised his gaze to meet his. "There has to be some reason why exactly you're giving me such information. Unless you've truly decided to work for the other team."
Hyukjae scoffed. "This isn't charity. I've kept track of every closed case and am calculating my worthiness. Eventually I'll have it paid back to me in full."
Junsu gave a sideways glance. "If you expect a free pass from the crimes you've done before, then I suggest you start thinking of something else."
Hyukjae arched an eyebrow. "Do you always disregard your own birthday to interrogate innocent bystanders?"
"You're hardly innocent. You've stolen countless artwork. Handle forgeries and other charges-"
"Those have yet to stick." Hyukjae interjected. "Considering the lack of proof you're able to use against me, you should learn to keep a better eye out."
Rather than feeling insulted, he felt intrigued by this partner of his. His gaze followed as Hyukjae stood only inches away from him, his fingers tracing the string of a balloon. With a sly smile, Hyukjae asked, "Would you like a hint?"
He raised his gaze to meet his eyes. Hyukjae was standing dangerously close, his hands tracing the edges of his blazer. He composed himself as well as he could, but he doubted that Hyukjae's hands could feel his excited heart raced from the tension between them.
He closed his eyes as Hyukjae pressed his lips against his, his hands clutching the edge of the wooden table to keep himself steady. Rather then shoving him aside, he simply relaxed, letting his partner do as he desired.
Even as he pulled away, Hyukjae had reached in for another brief kiss, smiling as he maintained their close distance.
"Happy birthday." He whispered alluringly.
His hands lowered from his chest as he shifted aside, striding towards the door as Junsu turned his eyes towards him.
"I will catch you." He declared, his voice lowered as the other turned back in his direction, hand lingered on the door.
Hyukjae merely smirked. "I expect nothing less from you Agent Kim."
He found the edges of his lips twitched upward, hands tightening their grip on the desk. His thoughts circling about the double meaning.
Caught up in the restrictions of this raw emotion, one that demanded he listen without relenting. He didn't mind being its pawn. He wholeheartedly refused to stop playing this game, knowing full well that one day, Hyukjae will surely be his.
-
A/N: I was looking up some random english sayings when I came across that one. "As thick as thieves" means to be close friends, but I'm aiming for that to just be the first step ^^. Been into white collar lately because of the show called "White collar," at this rate I may be writing cia agents next @.@
Meanwhile, moving atm and not sure if I'll be able to post, hoping we have connection over there if anything ><. Edit: Have very limited connection .-.
Hyuksu writers and readers~ To hyuk_su ^^