SBB 2016 Entry #24: Fugue and Variation (2/4)
Title: Fugue and Variation
Pairing: Jonghyun/Key, Jonghyun/Taemin, Jonghyun/Onew, Minho/Key
Rating: G
Genre: Friendship
Warnings: N/A
Final Word Count: 30,251
Chapter 2: Variation One (Part One)
From Jjong: kibummie
From Jjong: whats wrong
From Jjong: why did u wanna meet up with us all
From Jjong: kibummie?
From Jjong: kibum??
From Jjong: pls answer kibummie
From Jjong: im worried abt u
Kibum lets their phone drop with a heavy sigh, again running their fingers along the neat tear in the golden envelope they'd received in the mail almost two weeks ago. Their phone buzzes again and Kibum picks it up, swipes to ignore the message and sets their phone on silent. As much as they love Jonghyun, they need their space, and Jonghyun...he means well, so Kibum doesn't really mind.
But they do have to answer.
To Jjong: we'll meet in my room, come soon
Kibum flips their phone over and sighs, looks at the letter they'd received a few weeks ago without reading it. They've read it so many times now that they could probably recite it, and the initial shock and joy has now faded into melancholy because they still haven't told anyone-
The door creaks open and Woohyun pops his head in, steps in Kibum's room with a paper bag and a bottle of coke. “Hey, Bum. Hungry?”
“A little, what is it?”
“Italian,” Woohyun shrugs as if it isn't anything much, but Kibum sees the label on the carry out box - casAntonio - and bites their lip, trying to keep back a tired smile
“You shouldn't have, could you even pronounce the name of this?” Kibum can smell it before they open the box: burrata alla caprese.
“Of course I could!” Woohyun folds his arms, “you can get your own fork for that.”
Kibum snorts and holds out their hand, waiting, and Woohyun gives them the fork after a brief moment's pause. “Thank you.”
Kibum opens the box and hums when they smell the burrata; carefully piercing the mozzarella ball with their fork and watching melted mozzarella and cream ooze out. It doesn't take long to finish both of the burratas and they sigh in contentment once they're gone. “Thank you.”
Woohyun nods, takes the box and fork from Kibum and retreats from his room with a quick grin. Woohyun has been trying more, Kibum muses, thinking back on all the food and company Woohyun had given them after finding out that Kibum wouldn't be here much longer.
A knock on his door and it's Jonghyun, he peeps in shyly, as if he hasn't been in this room dozens of times. “Kibummie? We're all here…”
Kibum pats the spot next to them and Jonghyun gives them a soft smile before Taemin and Jinki file in and sit, Taemin pressed close to Jonghyun and Jinki to Kibum's right.
“I'm leaving.” Kibum says abruptly, immediately bites their lip and closes their eyes.
“What do you mean, leaving?” Jonghyun is quiet, disbelief clear in his voice.
“I'm going to New York. Just for a semester. I'm leaving in a week.”
“Just a semester? That's four months, Kibum!”
Kibum flinches away from Jonghyun's sudden outburst and Jinki wraps a comforting arm around their shoulder. “Jjong, stop it. It's not that long, you'll live.”
“Why are you going?” Taemin is quiet, but when they meet gazes, Kibum can tell Taemin is on their side, even if he doesn't agree. Kibum loves Taemin in that moment.
“SM wants me, I'm going to work with them for the semester, for their modeling unit. Hair, clothes, makeup, nothing special.” Kibum shrugs like it's not a big deal, even though this…
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, Kibum,” Jinki's reading the letter, and he's matter of fact when he continues, “you don't have to pretend it's not.”
“I'll miss you guys, and we can video chat while I'm gone.” Kibum says it to them all, but they look at Jonghyun when they speak, and pretend they aren't hurt when Jonghyun doesn't nod agreement.
“We should hang out before you go,” Taemin's suggestion is lazy, and he leans back to stare at the ceiling, “like each of us alone for a day, we all meet up on the last night, get food. It'll be nice. When do you leave?”
“Saturday. You'll all probably be asleep still. Woohyun is dropping me at the airport.”
“Flying alone to New York?”
“Private jet, yeah. I'll write it all down so you can read when I'm back. I'll probably need a few notebooks though-”
Jonghyun stands abruptly and lets himself out, with only a mumbled, “I have to go. Sorry.” and Taemin waits only a heartbeat before following him out, an apologetic smile thrown back at Jinki and Kibum.
It's awkward then: Jinki and Kibum have never been close just because they've never...really talked. That paired with their less than desirable first meeting...they just don't mix.
“I never apologized for our first meeting, did I?” Jinki says then, a smile in his voice.
“I didn't either,” Kibum ruffles their hair in agitation, “it was stupid of me to get so upset.”
“No, it was your art. I know Jjong would be pissed if his laptop got broken. All of his music would be gone.” Jinki rubs his wrist as he speaks, the motion so absent that Kibum wonders if Jinki even realizes he's doing it.
“We never figured out which days I'll be with who…”
“Taemin will do Monday, Jonghyun Tuesday, and I'll do Wednesday. Thursday you should spend with Woohyun. And Friday we'll order some food...Woohyun and Jonghyun can drop you off Saturday.” It sounds like Jinki had thought this over and Kibum laughs.
“Such a good leader.”
“I try my best. And don't worry about Jjong, he just - he wears his heart on his sleeve. He misses you already, he loves you a lot.”
“Take care of him.”
If Kibum didn't know better, they'd say Jinki's smile is bitter when he speaks, “I will.”
From Taeminnie: we should make a group chat
From Taeminnie: kakao
To Taeminnie: on it
Kibum quickly does as Taemin says, realizes they don't have Jinki's number and bites their lip. “I don't have your number.”
“Make the group first and then add me in.”
Kibum has added Taemin to the group
Kibum has added Jjong to the group
Taemin has changed the group name to mean girls
Jjong: ur not funny omg
Jjong has added Jinki to the group
Jinki: anyway
Jinki: tae, your date with kibum is monday
Jinki: jjong, you're tuesday
Jjong: hm
Taemin: ive got a Good place in mind
Kibum: I'm worried
Taemin: trust me, hyung. Have I ever steered you wrong?
Kibum: …
Kibum: I'll see you monday
Taemin and Kibum work out the details of their “date" in private, and Taemin enters Kibum's room at 6:28, two minutes early.
“Is that food?”
“For after our date,” Taemin gives Kibum a shy smile, “it's so weird, saying that. Date. I used to have a crush on you, actually. The way you danced, it was so,” Taemin makes a gesture, shrugs, and that's that.
“I can't say the same,” Kibum nudges Taemin as they stroll down the hall, “you were always my cute baby.”
“I'm not a baby!”
“Of course, Taeminnie.”
Taemin doesn't make the situation any better by pouting.
When Taemin stops the car, they're at the dance studio - not the school's, the one where they'd first met. Kibum turns to him and wants to punch that lazy, self-satisfied smirk off his face even as they want to hug him. “Taemin, you-”
“Talked to some people, pulled some strings, made a few deals.” Taemin spins the ring of keys around his finger before getting out the car. He's already unlocked the door by the time Kibum realizes that this is actually happening; they hurry to catch up with Taemin and follow him to the second dance room, where they'd first met. Taemin flips on the lights and it's just like Kibum remembers, except the posters on the wall have changed.
“We got rid of the stereo,” Taemin says, points to a speaker against the wall, “It's bluetooth.”
Music blasts from the speaker and Taemin quickly turns the volume down on his phone, grinning sheepishly. “Sorry. Do you need to stretch?”
“Don't tell me you skip stretching-” the look on Taemin's face gives Kibum their answer and Kibum snorts, “lazy brat. You're going to hurt yourself one day if you keep that up.”
“Nah,” a lazy shrug, “I'm practically invincible.”
“Practically,” Kibum repeats, “and Taeminnie, we both know that isn't true. Like remember your sophomore year when you tried to do a split and-”
Kibum cuts off when Taemin turns the music back up, some song Kibum has never heard before. Taemin flies through the laziest set of stretches Kibum has ever seen while Kibum takes their time, ignoring Taemin who will whine and complain to Kibum later about his soreness. While they stretch, Kibum watches Taemin dance; it's a slow, sensual R&B track and then Kibum placed the voice: it's Taemin. Kibum looks back at Taemin and he's dancing facing the mirror, movements lazy and still so sharp, exuding an indolent sexuality that only Taemin can execute.
Kibum finds themself entranced by Taemin's movements, brain automatically filing the steps to heart. They have to smile when Taemin runs his hand through his hair; a quirk that only comes out when Taemin is caught up in his dance; Kibum is glad to see it hasn't changed. The song ends and Taemin spins around, lazy grin in place.
“Like it?”
“Was that you singing?”
“Yeah, it's a little project me and Jjong are working on, that song is called Ace. Have you heard Jjong sing?”
“You and him have pretty similar voices.” Kibum observes, stands while Taemin scrolls through his phone.
“Kibummie, remember?” Taemin looks up at Kibum, a grin on his lips, before the song starts and - Taemin skips it so it's moments before the chorus and Kibum finds their body automatically getting into position, muscle memory coming into play - because they certainly don't remember the steps in their mind.
Kibum’s eyes automatically fall to Taemin's reflection as they fall into sync: the sinful path of his hand down his chest, sharp movements that bleed into the outlining of his body, quick improvisation and the signature motion of a hand through his hair, then Kibum's favorite part. Taemin makes the motions even more sensual with a hand directing the eye down the line of his body as he does a flawless body roll. Taemin throws a quick wink at Kibum through the mirror and they both grin before Taemin stops dancing to turn the music down.
"Think you could still do the pole dance part of this?"
"Better than you," Kibum nudges Taemin, grinning, "let me see what songs you have."
"Nope, I made this playlist for tonight. Gonna put it on shuffle and we'll see what happens. I want this to help you relax."
“If only you were always this kind.”
“What do you mean, I'm an angel!”
Kibum arches a brow and fixes the way their shirt falls over their shoulders, the picture of skepticism. “Jonghyun wouldn't say that, would he?”
“He would today, I bought him a cake.”
“Just today?”
“If you catch him at the right time.”
“Just play the music, Taemin.”
Taemin grins, nods and retreats to the speaker, then scrolls some more and runs back over to Kibum, clearly excited. “It'll be like a random dance play,” he nudges Kibum, “I put lots of stuff we did when you were back here, let's see what you remember, yeah?”
“Of course.” It's a challenge if Kibum ever heard one, and they're more than happy to comply.
Kibum can't really say how long they dance; most of it is just them fooling around and improvising, but they do actually dance for a while, and it's fun. In the middle of Shake It, though, Taemin stops the music and flops down on the floor, ignoring the way Kibum frowns at him.
“I liked that song, why'd you stop it?”
“You like Sistar?”
“Why do you look so surprised?”
Taemin just shrugs, a tiny grin on his lips. “Hungry?”
“Yeah-”
“You get the food then.”
“I'm your hyung-"
“Get the food, hyung.”
“Are you like this with Jonghyun?”
“No, because he would've gotten the food the first time I asked.”
“I feel bad for him. Having to put up with you for the rest of your lives.”
“He's in love with me,” Taemin shrugs, “and I like him.”
“Not love?”
“Not yet, no. I could, though. I do like him a lot, he's nice, and cute. And funny.”
“Your ideal type, huh?”
“Almost,” Taemin takes the bag from Kibum and pulls out some chips and sodas, “he's too short.”
“What a shame. Is this all the food you could get?”
“Honestly? I forgot. Nicked it from the store before I left.”
“I can't believe you.”
Taemin opens a bottle of sprite and holds it up, “a toast. To new beginnings and old friendships. And to dance.”
“You practiced that, didn't you?”
“Of course.”
Taemin drops Kibum off just after midnight, Woohyun is still up and he gives Kibum a tired grin. “How was your date?”
“Fun, we went dancing. I feel really relaxed now.”
“Good,” Woohyun stands and gives Kibum a quick hug, then pulls away, nose wrinkled, “go shower, you're all sweaty.”
“Shut up.”
To Taeminnie: thanks for tonight
From Taeminnie: np babe. Dont forget about me while you're in america
To Taeminnie: how could I?
From Taeminnie: just making sure
Tuesday morning, the first thing Kibum sees when they wake up is Jonghyun's eager grin. When he sees Kibum is awake, his grin grows wider. “Kibummie! You're awake!”
It takes a minute for Kibum to process that Jonghyun is actually here, and another minute for it to really sink in that Jonghyun is in their room
“What are you doing in my room?”
“You're skipping class today. I planned the whole day.” Jonghyun looks proud of himself and Kibum groans, rolls over.
“What time is it?”
“Seven.”
“Wake me up at ten.”
“But what am I supposed to do until then?” Kibum can practically feel Jonghyun pouting.
Kibum rolls over and opens just one eye so they can make sure Jonghyun is looking, then they throw back the covers a bit. “Get in, then. Set your alarm or something.”
“I - Taemin, and-"
“Stay out then, and wake me up when it's time.”
A minute later, and Kibum feels Jonghyun get in beside them.
They wake up slowly, there's something heavy across their waist and it's warm and comfortable, and Kibum nearly falls asleep again. Nearly, because they hear light breathing next to them, and then the weight on their waist makes sense. Kibum turns, sees Jonghyun's sleeping face and relaxes when they remember what had (and hadn't) happened.
There's a sticky note stuck to his forehead and Kibum peels it off, careful not to disturb him, reads. It's from Woohyun, just says that he's bought them breakfast from McDonald's, and that he's going to question Kibum on everything when he gets done with class. There's also a little winky face, but Kibum ignores that.
Kibum reaches over Jonghyun to check their phone and their eyes widen when they see the time, 11:06. Jonghyun is going to be pissed.
“Jjong, wake up.” Kibum shakes Jonghyun gently and Jonghyun wrinkles his nose, eyes opening and then shutting when he sees Kibum.
“No…”
“It's past 11.”
At that, Jonghyun opens his eyes again. “Get dressed then, we gotta go.” he sits up and yawns, still sleepy, then falls back onto the bed, eyes shut.
It's almost 11:40 by the time Kibum is ready, what with choosing an outfit (they go off of what Jonghyun is wearing and end up in a black beanie and sweater and light ripped jeans) and putting on makeup (foundation, concealer, eyeliner and light contouring), then they go to Jonghyun, surprised to find him stretched out on Kibum's bed, busy on his phone.
“Busy?”
Jonghyun barely looks up, mumbles something, thumbs moving rapidly. It's another few minutes before he puts his phone down, grins. “Lyrics. It's a secret.”
“For Taemin?”
A pause. “Yeah. Let's go?”
“My roommate left us some food,” Kibum gets to the kitchen first and pulls out two cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets and fries, and Jonghyun brings the food to the microwave while Kibum pours them drinks.
They eat quietly, Jonghyun humming in short bursts and putting what Kibum assumes is guitar chords in his phone. Once they finish, they leave and Kibum drives, Jonghyun directing them and singing along with the radio. Jonghyun even coaxes Kibum to sing with him and the two end up splitting all the lines of Exo’s latest song Lucky One. Jonghyun laughs when the song finishes and says that between him, Taemin, Kibum and Jinki, they could be an idol group.
It's not long after that when they arrive at a plain looking building; Jonghyun covers Kibum's eyes when they try to read what the sign says, and then Jonghyun is dragging them inside. The surprise is ruined when Kibum reads the sign above the booth they end up at, and they pretend not to know where they are so Jonghyun can turn to them with skates and an eager grin.
“Ice skating? Jjong, how did you know?”
“Woohyun told me,” Jonghyun looks like a puppy then, with his eager eyes and wide grin, pleased with Kibum's praise.
Kibum takes one pair of skates and follows Jonghyun to the benches so they can change shoes, and follow Jonghyun onto the rink, beaming. Neither of them are very stable on the ice, Kibum because they haven't skated in years, Jonghyun because this is his first time. But it's fun, both of them clutching each other and giggling madly as they make their way around and around.
Jonghyun is soon tired and they decide to break for lunch. Jonghyun's cheeks are flushed red with the cold and exertion and his eyes are bright like the smile on his lips. He looks as happy as Kibum feels and they split a Hershey sundae pie before going out on the ice again. It seems like they're out there for only minutes, but then suddenly it’s five minutes until closing and they head out, surprised that the whole day is gone.
When they get to Kibum's building, Jonghyun stops, smile dimming. “I had a lot of fun,” he murmurs, “I'm going to miss you, a lot.”
Kibum pulls Jonghyun into a tight hug, “I'm going to miss you too.” they say into Jonghyun's neck, voice wavering.
“Promise you won't forget about me?”
“I promise.”
Jonghyun pulls away then, smile back in place, though it looks like he's going to cry. “I should go, I have a test. And it's my turn to cook. I'll - see you.”
“Jjong,” when Jonghyun turns around, “thanks.”
And almost as soon as Kibum gets upstairs, a text.
From Jjong: get in safe?
To Jjong: of course
To Jjong: you?
From Jjong: yeah
From Jjong: well kinda
From Jjong: I miss u already
Kibum doesn't answer, only because of the way Woohyun is now looking at them.
“You like him.”
“What, no! Jonghyun is with Taemin-”
“I never said Jonghyun,” Woohyun looks smug, “and besides, he could be poly.”
Kibum shrugs, “Even if I like him, there's no guarantee he likes me. You're not getting my hopes up for nothing, Namu.”
“If he doesn't like you, why were you two sleeping together?”
“He woke me up at seven. I told him to wake me up later and he didn't know what to do while he waited, so I said to climb in, and he did. Nothing else happened.”
“What about your date?”
“We went ice skating, that's it.”
“Why were you smiling at your phone?”
“He texted me asking if I got home safe just after he watched me enter the building and said he missed me already.”
“He likes you.”
“Brilliant deduction, Sherlock. He has Taemin. Aren't you tired?”
“Do you like him?”
“I could. Can we leave it at that?”
“I just want you to be happy, you know that.”
“I know you mean well, but I don't need someone else to be happy.”
Woohyun gives Kibum a tired smile and nods. “Fine, fine. Picked up some cake, want some?”
“Your turn isn't until Thursday-”
“It's that chocolate fudge one you like.”
They eat it straight from the pan and fall asleep on the couch, tv still playing in the background.
It's a text that wakes Kibum, from Jinki. Which is kind of surprising, but then, it's Wednesday.
From Jinki: what time do you want to go out?
To Jinki: after 5?
From Jinki: I'll be there around 7
It's short, straight to the point and almost formal, and Kibum isn't surprised by that at all. Kibum turns to Woohyun and wipes a streak of cake icing from his cheek, then nudges him none too gently. Woohyun barely budges, and Kibum huffs and pushes him off the couch. Which does work, Even if Woohyun does glare at Kibum before rolling over and letting out a loud groan.
“Kibum, I don't want to go to class,” he moans.
“Get up, you skip too much.”
“Mental health days!”
“You mean League of Legends days. Your mental health is fine, get up.”
“Make me breakfast?”
“You're so needy,” Kibum stands anyway though, nudges Woohyun with their foot, “where's your charger? The portable one.”
“On my desk, probably. Scrambled eggs, thanks.”
“Toast?”
“Yeah, I'll make a sandwich.”
Kibum listens for the sounds of Woohyun getting ready while they cook, yells at him only once to get off his laptop and doesn't even have to pry away his phone when Woohyun slumps onto the kitchen, yawning.
“So who's taking you out today?”
“Jinki. Jonghyun's roommate, the one that almost broke my phone.”
“Oh, interesting. Jonghyun's roommate.”
“He almost broke-”
“Maybe he'll know if Jonghyun likes-”
“No, I am not asking him if Jonghyun likes me, especially since Jonghyun has Taemin.”
“You don't have to ask him,” Woohyun takes a bite of his sandwich, “I will. That's what friends are for.”
“Fuck you.”
Woohyun rolls up his sleeves, grinning, “I've got people for that.” and Kibum stares, because all the marks on Woohyun’s arms make tattoo sleeves of words in English, Korean, doodles, even what looks like actual tattoos.
“How many soulmates-”
“Six. Hoya’s the one that did all the tattoos, though. Makes it seem like there's more, but then, have you met Suho? He's in our year, and he has eleven soulmates. It's really complicated, but it works for them.”
“Impressive, but you're going to be late.”
Woohyun looks at his watch, and his eyes widen as he curses under his breath. “I'll see you later!”
Kibum doesn't have class until 12, so they go outside and paint for a while, just the sky and the buildings around them. They pack their things up and switch out their art materials for their biology stuff, then head to class.
From Jjong: do you have class now
To Jjong: yeah why
From Jjong: im boooored
To Jjong: do u have class later
From Jjong: no i only have class until 11:30 on wednesydydays
To Jjong: ill meet you later
From Jjong: !!!!!!!
From Jjong: come to my room yeyeye
Kibum can practically see Jonghyun now, wiggling in excitement. There would be that uncontrollable grin on his lips and his eyes would squint into crescents and he'd probably laugh, the cute one where-
Kibum shakes their head to get rid of those thoughts, frowning. Eyes squinting into crescents, cute laugh? Kibum decides they'll have to go to bed early tonight. And that's the first thing they tell Jonghyun when they get to his dorm, ignoring Jonghyun's amused grin.
“You'll get your beauty sleep,” he teases, “Jinki didn't do anything especially elaborate.”
“Not surprising,” Kibum shrugs, “we're not exactly close.”
“I want you to be, though,” Jonghyun looks shy now, “I love you most. And Taemin.”
Oh. “What did you want to show me?” Kibum asks instead, biting their lip to keep from smiling.
“Huh?”
“You wanted me to come over so badly, I thought you had something to show me.”
Jonghyun brightens then and nods, “Oh, I do! In my room.”
Jonghyun's guitar is on his bed and he pushes all the papers scattered around it onto his desk, patting the bed for Kibum. “Sit.” When they're both settled, Jonghyun gives Kibum another shy little grin, “I wrote this last night, so it's still kind of...well. I thought a lot about you leaving and I'm going to miss you a lot, and I realized how stupid I'd been when you told us and I'm sorry and I love you. So. I wrote this.”
Kibum's mind was still stuck on the shockingly honest words Jonghyun had just spoken (he'd said I love you) so they don't hear most of the song, but what does stick out is one of the verses:
As if it was passing by, I saw your smile
I’ve already deeply fallen
Look at those chic eyes
Come on, the spilling sunlight
Your shoulder line shines even more
Baby, you’re dazzling
Jonghyun puts his guitar down when he's done, bites his lip as he waits for Kibum to speak. And when they don't, a quiet, “I think I'm going to call it White T-Shirt. Because that's what you were wearing when we first met. Remember?”
Kibum doesn't remember, and that makes it even worse. “Jjong, you-”
“Promise you won't forget me,” sincerity is written all over Jonghyun's face, “you're my best friend , Kibum.”
“Then what am, I?” That's Jinki, he looks amused as he leans against the doorframe, eyeing them both.
“You're Jinki.” Jonghyun says decisively, and that's the end of that.
“Want to stop somewhere before the movie? I'm hungry.”
“Not really,” Kibum shrugs. They can feel Jinki’s gaze on them, but they pull out their phone to show they're unfazed. A quiet snort and they pull out the lot, the radio off. It's awkward, Jinki likes ballads and Kibum likes American music, and then the only thing they have in common is Jonghyun, and how would you bring up the guy that you kind of maybe have a crush on with his roommate-
“Jonghyun is very fond of you.”Jinki says then, slow like he's thinking of each word as he says it.
Kibum checks their face in their phone screen and is pleased to see that they aren't blushing. “I like him too, what of it?”
“When Jonghyun loves, he puts his whole heart into it. I don't want him to get hurt by someone that wouldn't do the same.”
“You think I'm playing with him?”
“I never said that.” Jinki's tone is mild, almost amused.
“I'm not the one you should be lecturing. Taemin isn't in love with Jonghyun either, but just because they're soulmates-"
“I never said it had to be a romantic relationship. And believe me, Kibum,” here, Jinki's tone turns bitter, and he rubs at his arm almost absently, “I don't exactly love the idea of soulmates either.”
It's silent from then on, and they even watch the movie - the new Marvel one, Civil War - in silence. Jinki does buy Kibum snacks for the movie in apology, and Kibum shares his popcorn and candy, their own idea of a truce.
“Did you like the movie?” Jinki asks when they get in the car.
“I thought it was good. I think Jonghyun would've liked it more, though.”
“Probably,” Jinki shrugs, “he likes these kinds of movies more than me.”
“Taemin too, I'm surprised they didn't go together.”
“I think I know, does Taemin like Cap or Tony?”
“Is that really it, they're so…”
“Immature?”
“I was going to say stupid, but that works too. I take it back, they're perfect for each other.”
“How do you know Taemin?”
“We danced together in high school. How'd he and Jjong meet?”
“Taemin's job. Jjong kept coming back and Taemin found out they were soulmates and didn't tell Jonghyun.”
“Yeah, that sounds like something he'd do. He could get away with murder if he wanted to.”
“And Jjong would let him,” Jinki shakes his head, grinning, “guess soulmates really are perfect for each other.”
“Not always.”
From Jjong: how was the movie? Which one was it?
To Jjong: it was good, civil war
From Jjong: JINK I TOOK U TO DEE CIVIL W AR AN D NOT ME IM GOING TO FIG HT HIM
To Jjong: go with tae
From Jjong: never, that traitor
“Jjong called Taemin a traitor over the movie, and he's mad at you for not taking him. Have fun dealing with that.”
From Jjong: if he doesnt have his key im not openign the door for him
From Jjong: so there
“Jinki, do you have your room key?”
“No, why?”
“You'll see.”
To Jjong: dont be mean, he doenst have it
From Jjong: uh no
To Jjong: ill get you sm model’s autographs
From Jjong: idc abt them so there
To Jjong: you could sell it, who wouldnt pay for sm autographs?
From Jjong: deal
When they pull into the lot, Kibum reaches over and pats Jinki's arm. “Have a good night, Jinki.”
“You too?”
To Taeminnie: take jjong to see civil war
From Taeminnie: nah
To Taeminnie: ill get you choi minhos autograph while im in america
From Taeminnie: deal
Kibum wakes up at almost noon to find that his alarm had been turned off, and they stalk into the kitchen to find Woohyun waiting at the table.
“Oh, you're up. I made American breakfast, since you're leaving soon.”
“Why's my alarm off?”
“Today's my day. You needed the rest.” Woohyun shrugs and brings Kibum a plate of waffles, then goes to pour them both drinks. Strawberry milk for Kibum, apple juice for himself.
“So what's your plan, Namu?”
“Absolutely nothing. You need to rest before you leave, so that's what we're going to do.”
“So were you too lazy to come up with something, or did you forget?”
“Bit of both. But you have to admit, that was a damn good excuse.”
“Maybe if I didn't know you so well, slacker.”
“I downloaded all the Ghibli films, what's first?”
“Howl’s Moving Castle. And then we watch them all in order.”
“My room, then. I got the projector screen working and everything.” (At the cost of his only window, but Woohyun didn't mind.)
“Good. And ice cream?”
“Of course.”
They spend the day lazing around, eating junk food. Kibum says it's going to make their face terribly bloated, but they eat almost as much as Woohyun, and that's saying something. Woohyun falls asleep at around 2 in the afternoon with his head on Kibum's shoulder and Kibum eases out of bed and turns the movie and the lights off so Woohyun can sleep, then pulls on a sweater to go outside.
To Taeminnie: wyd
From Taeminnie: banging jjong
To Taeminnie: …
From Taeminnie: kidding. We're at his dorm recording songs
From Taeminnie: white t shirt was rlly cute, im jealous lol
To Taeminnie: tell jjong hi
Kibum heads to Starbucks after that and orders a hibiscus refresher and a blueberry scone and eats alone, checking their reflection in their phone (the fake glasses don't actually go that well with the length their bangs are at) every so often and observing the passersby and what they're wearing.
Kibum realizes, then, that they need new clothes to wear for New York, and who better to ask than Nicole?
To Namu: I need new clothes, be back later
Woohyun doesn't answer, as expected, so Kibum texts Nicole.
To Nicole: mall?
From Nicole: meet u in 10
They meet at the entrance to the mall in seven minutes; immediately Nicole marches Kibum to Victoria's Secret - Kibum is well used to this and dutifully holds Nicole's pile for her and helps her choose between lavender and mint green and baby blue and no definitely not red. They leave and Kibum carries Nicole's bag for her while she buys them pretzels (layered with cinnamon and sugar) and they sit down so Kibum can lay out their strategy.
“I want something simple for the plane ride, comfortable but also…”
“Head turning?”
“Exactly, and for my first day-”
“This.” Nicole shows him her phone screen and Kibum nods. Leather jacket, plain top, dark jeans ripped all the way up to the thighs.
“How could I live without you?”
“I wonder sometimes. I'm going to buy shoes, I'll show you how they look. Meet you here later.”
“Of course.” Kibum watches Nicole disappear into the crowd and then goes the other way. They quickly find the outfit Nicole planned for them and add a plaid button up to tie around their waist, and a white cap just in case their hair looks bad. It won't, but it's a precaution. Their airport outfit though, proves to be harder, until they spot a white translucent shirt (in the women's section, but who cares) and dark jeans, and - Kibum had their outfit.
From Nicole: CRISIS I can't choose what to get
To Nicole: where are you
From Nicole: went to macys for makeup
To Nicole: you went to get makeup without me?
From Nicole: I got you your eyeliner and concealer, calm down
To Nicole: ...omw
When Nicole spots Kibum, she holds up a handful of lipstick shades. “I need red, but the pink looks so cute, but this nude looks good too, and-”
“Just get them all. This pink instead though.” Kibum holds up a different shade and Nicole frowns, takes it.
“You know me best,” she says, “it had better work.”
“It will. I'm feeling smoothies, you?”
“If you pay.”
“Of course.”
From Woohyun: tell nicole hi
From Woohyun: come home tho it's still my day
To Woohyun: youre lucky I already got what I needed
To Woohyun: want a smoothie?
From Woohyun: mango strawberry
To Woohyun: see you soon then
“I have to go, still have to finish my design project.”
“Want help?”
“No, you need to pack, don't you?”
“I probably should, but will I?”
“You'll probably repack a good five times. Maybe seven.”
“Shut up,” Kibum nudges Nicole and she nudges him back, smile turning sad, “gonna miss you, Kibummie.”
“Miss you too, Cole.” Kibum holds out their arms for a hug and Nicole raises her brow.
“It's not that serious. I'll see you in what, four months?”
“I'm not getting you any souvenirs for that.”
“Bye, Kibum.”
Kibum's phone buzzes while they're driving and they check it when they get home.
From Nicole: get me choi minhos autograph or we're not friends anymore
To Nicole: you got it
Woohyun is lounging in the couch when Kibum gets inside, he frowns at Kibum and holds out his hand for his smoothie. “You abandoned me on my day?”
“Nicole is important to me too, Namu.”
“You wouldn't do that to Jonghyun,” Woohyun sulks, “I'm your roommate.”
“And my best friend. Even if you are needy-”
“That's my job, Bummie. Should we pack?”
“I'll do it, don't worry. Go play League.”
From Jjong: bummie, question
To Jjong: shoot
From Jjong: you said dance is to u what music is to me
From Jjong: music is my life, so why are you with sm for fashion and not a dance place?
To Jjong: I'd originally wanted to be an idol tbh, auditioned with sm and everything
To Jjong: they didn't take me, so I gave up on professional dancing
From Jjong: just bc of that?
To Jjong: if only
Kibum turns their phone on silent after that and goes to pack; shoves a good fourth of their closet into their suitcase because they know they'll buy too many clothes in New York. They make sure to write down in their phone to get souvenirs Jinki, Taemin, Jonghyun, Nicole and Woohyun, and autographs for Jonghyun, Taemin and Nicole. And all by Choi Minho of course.
Woohyun barges in just then, “Let's go out. Just a quick walk around.”
Kibum looks from Woohyun’s eager face to their suitcase and back, sighs. “Help me close this and we'll go.”
“You need to pack less, Bum.”
“I need to pack the best, Namu. I can't wear anything less, especially around models. SM models at that.”
“Fine, fine. Get me something cool from America. Something expensive-”
“Don't push it, Namu.”
Woohyun sits back with a loud huff and stares at Kibum's half closed suitcase in aggravation. “You packed too much.”
“You need a haircut.”
“Dye it too.”
“You know the drill then, we'll do it tomorrow.”
“We're going to your boyfriend's dorm right? I'll pick up the food when I leave Sunggyu’s.”
“Don't leave too late - and Jonghyun is not my boyfriend!”
“He wrote you a song and titled it after what you were wearing when you met him.”
“He has good memory then.”
“He likes you. Ask him out.”
“A day before I leave? No way.”
“When you get back then.”
“Namu, please.”
“If he does like you?”
“If he still does when I get back, maybe.”
“Good, I'm going to Sunggyu’s!”
“I thought we were going for a walk-"
“Bye, Bummie!”
To Jinki: why don't you like soulmates?
From Jinki: I'll tell you another time
They all have classes in the morning, so they decide to meet at Jonghyun and Jinki's dorm whenever they finish their last class; Kibum gets there and it's just Jonghyun and Taemin, they're sitting on the floor playing cards.
“Hey Kibummie,”Jonghyun says when Kibum announces their presence, “wanna play a game with us?”
“What are you playing?”
“Palace. It's like...Taemin, you explain. Kibummie, want a drink?”
“Just a water?”
Jonghyun nods and hands his cards to Taemin, who shuffles while explaining the game. It's pretty easy and Kibum catches on quickly, manages to win - almost. Taemin catches them when they have just two cards left and wins, while Jonghyun just gives Kibum a soft smile and tells Kibum how good they did for their first time. All Kibum can think about is Jonghyun's hand on their thigh, but Jonghyun always has been fond of skinskip, so this doesn't necessarily mean anything, except Taemin is grinning at them so it must,
“I have to go to the bathroom.” Kibum stands abruptly and hurries to the bathroom. They are blushing, a little, and they pick at their bangs before fanning themself. It's hot and they wish they hadn't worn a sweater, and they want to tell Woohyun to bring them a shirt, but knowing him, he'd bring a shirt that clashes with the rest of Kibum's outfit and
“Kibummie? Should we deal you in?” It's Jonghyun, of course, he sounds concerned.
“Yeah.” Kibum opens the door before they can change their mind and Jonghyun is right there, Kibum tries to brush past him but Jonghyun grabs their wrist.
“Kibummie, can I ask you something?” It sounds important, and Kibum shakes Jonghyun's hand off their arm.
“Jonghyun, not now. Please?”
Jonghyun bites his lip, nods. Kibum follows him back out and Taemin is lounging on the floor, he frowns a little at Jonghyun, pursing his lips when Jonghyun shakes his head.
“Kibummie, wanna play again? Or something else?”
“Palace again is fine.”
Jinki comes in during the middle of that round and Woohyun comes in not ten minutes later with pizza and sodas. Taemin stretches across the entire couch and only lets Jonghyun sit next to him (Jonghyun just sits himself down on Taemin's lap, honestly) and the rest of them sit on the floor. Jinki brings out a bluetooth speaker and Woohyun connects his phone to it and then there's an impromptu karaoke session: they all end up shouting over each other to AOA’s Like A Cat and Taemin drags Kibum to do the dance while the rest of them cheer them on. Kibum spins around, laughing, and Jonghyun is right there, eager grin on his lips.
And then they're dancing together, Kibum's hands on Jonghyun's waist and Kibum can barely hear anything over the pounding of their heart. Jonghyun turns in their grip and wraps his arms around Kibum's neck, grinning up at them. “Kibummie,” Jonghyun says into Kibum's ear, “I really really like you-"
Kibum pushes Jonghyun away, breathes harsh, and Jonghyun doesn't fight it, even though he looks like he's going to cry. They escape to Jonghyun's bedroom and it's Taemin - of course - that finds them.
“Why'd you do that?” Taemin doesn't sound upset, just genuinely curious.
“You and him-”
“We're soulmates, okay, that doesn't mean anything. I'm not in love with him, Bum. You are. And don't play dumb, I've known you for what, six years?”
“You'd be fine with me dating your soulmate?”
Taemin shrugs. “So long as he's happy.”
“I'm leaving though.”
“Video chat then. If he still likes you when you get back and if you still like him, go for it.”
“Taemin...when did you become so level headed?”
“I've always been this way.”
“Yeah right. But Taemin?”
“Yeah?”
“Thanks.”
Taemin throws Kibum a lazy grin and nods. “No problem.”
Return to Part One
Part Three
Pairing: Jonghyun/Key, Jonghyun/Taemin, Jonghyun/Onew, Minho/Key
Rating: G
Genre: Friendship
Warnings: N/A
Final Word Count: 30,251
Chapter 2: Variation One (Part One)
From Jjong: kibummie
From Jjong: whats wrong
From Jjong: why did u wanna meet up with us all
From Jjong: kibummie?
From Jjong: kibum??
From Jjong: pls answer kibummie
From Jjong: im worried abt u
Kibum lets their phone drop with a heavy sigh, again running their fingers along the neat tear in the golden envelope they'd received in the mail almost two weeks ago. Their phone buzzes again and Kibum picks it up, swipes to ignore the message and sets their phone on silent. As much as they love Jonghyun, they need their space, and Jonghyun...he means well, so Kibum doesn't really mind.
But they do have to answer.
To Jjong: we'll meet in my room, come soon
Kibum flips their phone over and sighs, looks at the letter they'd received a few weeks ago without reading it. They've read it so many times now that they could probably recite it, and the initial shock and joy has now faded into melancholy because they still haven't told anyone-
The door creaks open and Woohyun pops his head in, steps in Kibum's room with a paper bag and a bottle of coke. “Hey, Bum. Hungry?”
“A little, what is it?”
“Italian,” Woohyun shrugs as if it isn't anything much, but Kibum sees the label on the carry out box - casAntonio - and bites their lip, trying to keep back a tired smile
“You shouldn't have, could you even pronounce the name of this?” Kibum can smell it before they open the box: burrata alla caprese.
“Of course I could!” Woohyun folds his arms, “you can get your own fork for that.”
Kibum snorts and holds out their hand, waiting, and Woohyun gives them the fork after a brief moment's pause. “Thank you.”
Kibum opens the box and hums when they smell the burrata; carefully piercing the mozzarella ball with their fork and watching melted mozzarella and cream ooze out. It doesn't take long to finish both of the burratas and they sigh in contentment once they're gone. “Thank you.”
Woohyun nods, takes the box and fork from Kibum and retreats from his room with a quick grin. Woohyun has been trying more, Kibum muses, thinking back on all the food and company Woohyun had given them after finding out that Kibum wouldn't be here much longer.
A knock on his door and it's Jonghyun, he peeps in shyly, as if he hasn't been in this room dozens of times. “Kibummie? We're all here…”
Kibum pats the spot next to them and Jonghyun gives them a soft smile before Taemin and Jinki file in and sit, Taemin pressed close to Jonghyun and Jinki to Kibum's right.
“I'm leaving.” Kibum says abruptly, immediately bites their lip and closes their eyes.
“What do you mean, leaving?” Jonghyun is quiet, disbelief clear in his voice.
“I'm going to New York. Just for a semester. I'm leaving in a week.”
“Just a semester? That's four months, Kibum!”
Kibum flinches away from Jonghyun's sudden outburst and Jinki wraps a comforting arm around their shoulder. “Jjong, stop it. It's not that long, you'll live.”
“Why are you going?” Taemin is quiet, but when they meet gazes, Kibum can tell Taemin is on their side, even if he doesn't agree. Kibum loves Taemin in that moment.
“SM wants me, I'm going to work with them for the semester, for their modeling unit. Hair, clothes, makeup, nothing special.” Kibum shrugs like it's not a big deal, even though this…
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, Kibum,” Jinki's reading the letter, and he's matter of fact when he continues, “you don't have to pretend it's not.”
“I'll miss you guys, and we can video chat while I'm gone.” Kibum says it to them all, but they look at Jonghyun when they speak, and pretend they aren't hurt when Jonghyun doesn't nod agreement.
“We should hang out before you go,” Taemin's suggestion is lazy, and he leans back to stare at the ceiling, “like each of us alone for a day, we all meet up on the last night, get food. It'll be nice. When do you leave?”
“Saturday. You'll all probably be asleep still. Woohyun is dropping me at the airport.”
“Flying alone to New York?”
“Private jet, yeah. I'll write it all down so you can read when I'm back. I'll probably need a few notebooks though-”
Jonghyun stands abruptly and lets himself out, with only a mumbled, “I have to go. Sorry.” and Taemin waits only a heartbeat before following him out, an apologetic smile thrown back at Jinki and Kibum.
It's awkward then: Jinki and Kibum have never been close just because they've never...really talked. That paired with their less than desirable first meeting...they just don't mix.
“I never apologized for our first meeting, did I?” Jinki says then, a smile in his voice.
“I didn't either,” Kibum ruffles their hair in agitation, “it was stupid of me to get so upset.”
“No, it was your art. I know Jjong would be pissed if his laptop got broken. All of his music would be gone.” Jinki rubs his wrist as he speaks, the motion so absent that Kibum wonders if Jinki even realizes he's doing it.
“We never figured out which days I'll be with who…”
“Taemin will do Monday, Jonghyun Tuesday, and I'll do Wednesday. Thursday you should spend with Woohyun. And Friday we'll order some food...Woohyun and Jonghyun can drop you off Saturday.” It sounds like Jinki had thought this over and Kibum laughs.
“Such a good leader.”
“I try my best. And don't worry about Jjong, he just - he wears his heart on his sleeve. He misses you already, he loves you a lot.”
“Take care of him.”
If Kibum didn't know better, they'd say Jinki's smile is bitter when he speaks, “I will.”
From Taeminnie: we should make a group chat
From Taeminnie: kakao
To Taeminnie: on it
Kibum quickly does as Taemin says, realizes they don't have Jinki's number and bites their lip. “I don't have your number.”
“Make the group first and then add me in.”
Kibum has added Taemin to the group
Kibum has added Jjong to the group
Taemin has changed the group name to mean girls
Jjong: ur not funny omg
Jjong has added Jinki to the group
Jinki: anyway
Jinki: tae, your date with kibum is monday
Jinki: jjong, you're tuesday
Jjong: hm
Taemin: ive got a Good place in mind
Kibum: I'm worried
Taemin: trust me, hyung. Have I ever steered you wrong?
Kibum: …
Kibum: I'll see you monday
Taemin and Kibum work out the details of their “date" in private, and Taemin enters Kibum's room at 6:28, two minutes early.
“Is that food?”
“For after our date,” Taemin gives Kibum a shy smile, “it's so weird, saying that. Date. I used to have a crush on you, actually. The way you danced, it was so,” Taemin makes a gesture, shrugs, and that's that.
“I can't say the same,” Kibum nudges Taemin as they stroll down the hall, “you were always my cute baby.”
“I'm not a baby!”
“Of course, Taeminnie.”
Taemin doesn't make the situation any better by pouting.
When Taemin stops the car, they're at the dance studio - not the school's, the one where they'd first met. Kibum turns to him and wants to punch that lazy, self-satisfied smirk off his face even as they want to hug him. “Taemin, you-”
“Talked to some people, pulled some strings, made a few deals.” Taemin spins the ring of keys around his finger before getting out the car. He's already unlocked the door by the time Kibum realizes that this is actually happening; they hurry to catch up with Taemin and follow him to the second dance room, where they'd first met. Taemin flips on the lights and it's just like Kibum remembers, except the posters on the wall have changed.
“We got rid of the stereo,” Taemin says, points to a speaker against the wall, “It's bluetooth.”
Music blasts from the speaker and Taemin quickly turns the volume down on his phone, grinning sheepishly. “Sorry. Do you need to stretch?”
“Don't tell me you skip stretching-” the look on Taemin's face gives Kibum their answer and Kibum snorts, “lazy brat. You're going to hurt yourself one day if you keep that up.”
“Nah,” a lazy shrug, “I'm practically invincible.”
“Practically,” Kibum repeats, “and Taeminnie, we both know that isn't true. Like remember your sophomore year when you tried to do a split and-”
Kibum cuts off when Taemin turns the music back up, some song Kibum has never heard before. Taemin flies through the laziest set of stretches Kibum has ever seen while Kibum takes their time, ignoring Taemin who will whine and complain to Kibum later about his soreness. While they stretch, Kibum watches Taemin dance; it's a slow, sensual R&B track and then Kibum placed the voice: it's Taemin. Kibum looks back at Taemin and he's dancing facing the mirror, movements lazy and still so sharp, exuding an indolent sexuality that only Taemin can execute.
Kibum finds themself entranced by Taemin's movements, brain automatically filing the steps to heart. They have to smile when Taemin runs his hand through his hair; a quirk that only comes out when Taemin is caught up in his dance; Kibum is glad to see it hasn't changed. The song ends and Taemin spins around, lazy grin in place.
“Like it?”
“Was that you singing?”
“Yeah, it's a little project me and Jjong are working on, that song is called Ace. Have you heard Jjong sing?”
“You and him have pretty similar voices.” Kibum observes, stands while Taemin scrolls through his phone.
“Kibummie, remember?” Taemin looks up at Kibum, a grin on his lips, before the song starts and - Taemin skips it so it's moments before the chorus and Kibum finds their body automatically getting into position, muscle memory coming into play - because they certainly don't remember the steps in their mind.
Kibum’s eyes automatically fall to Taemin's reflection as they fall into sync: the sinful path of his hand down his chest, sharp movements that bleed into the outlining of his body, quick improvisation and the signature motion of a hand through his hair, then Kibum's favorite part. Taemin makes the motions even more sensual with a hand directing the eye down the line of his body as he does a flawless body roll. Taemin throws a quick wink at Kibum through the mirror and they both grin before Taemin stops dancing to turn the music down.
"Think you could still do the pole dance part of this?"
"Better than you," Kibum nudges Taemin, grinning, "let me see what songs you have."
"Nope, I made this playlist for tonight. Gonna put it on shuffle and we'll see what happens. I want this to help you relax."
“If only you were always this kind.”
“What do you mean, I'm an angel!”
Kibum arches a brow and fixes the way their shirt falls over their shoulders, the picture of skepticism. “Jonghyun wouldn't say that, would he?”
“He would today, I bought him a cake.”
“Just today?”
“If you catch him at the right time.”
“Just play the music, Taemin.”
Taemin grins, nods and retreats to the speaker, then scrolls some more and runs back over to Kibum, clearly excited. “It'll be like a random dance play,” he nudges Kibum, “I put lots of stuff we did when you were back here, let's see what you remember, yeah?”
“Of course.” It's a challenge if Kibum ever heard one, and they're more than happy to comply.
Kibum can't really say how long they dance; most of it is just them fooling around and improvising, but they do actually dance for a while, and it's fun. In the middle of Shake It, though, Taemin stops the music and flops down on the floor, ignoring the way Kibum frowns at him.
“I liked that song, why'd you stop it?”
“You like Sistar?”
“Why do you look so surprised?”
Taemin just shrugs, a tiny grin on his lips. “Hungry?”
“Yeah-”
“You get the food then.”
“I'm your hyung-"
“Get the food, hyung.”
“Are you like this with Jonghyun?”
“No, because he would've gotten the food the first time I asked.”
“I feel bad for him. Having to put up with you for the rest of your lives.”
“He's in love with me,” Taemin shrugs, “and I like him.”
“Not love?”
“Not yet, no. I could, though. I do like him a lot, he's nice, and cute. And funny.”
“Your ideal type, huh?”
“Almost,” Taemin takes the bag from Kibum and pulls out some chips and sodas, “he's too short.”
“What a shame. Is this all the food you could get?”
“Honestly? I forgot. Nicked it from the store before I left.”
“I can't believe you.”
Taemin opens a bottle of sprite and holds it up, “a toast. To new beginnings and old friendships. And to dance.”
“You practiced that, didn't you?”
“Of course.”
Taemin drops Kibum off just after midnight, Woohyun is still up and he gives Kibum a tired grin. “How was your date?”
“Fun, we went dancing. I feel really relaxed now.”
“Good,” Woohyun stands and gives Kibum a quick hug, then pulls away, nose wrinkled, “go shower, you're all sweaty.”
“Shut up.”
To Taeminnie: thanks for tonight
From Taeminnie: np babe. Dont forget about me while you're in america
To Taeminnie: how could I?
From Taeminnie: just making sure
Tuesday morning, the first thing Kibum sees when they wake up is Jonghyun's eager grin. When he sees Kibum is awake, his grin grows wider. “Kibummie! You're awake!”
It takes a minute for Kibum to process that Jonghyun is actually here, and another minute for it to really sink in that Jonghyun is in their room
“What are you doing in my room?”
“You're skipping class today. I planned the whole day.” Jonghyun looks proud of himself and Kibum groans, rolls over.
“What time is it?”
“Seven.”
“Wake me up at ten.”
“But what am I supposed to do until then?” Kibum can practically feel Jonghyun pouting.
Kibum rolls over and opens just one eye so they can make sure Jonghyun is looking, then they throw back the covers a bit. “Get in, then. Set your alarm or something.”
“I - Taemin, and-"
“Stay out then, and wake me up when it's time.”
A minute later, and Kibum feels Jonghyun get in beside them.
They wake up slowly, there's something heavy across their waist and it's warm and comfortable, and Kibum nearly falls asleep again. Nearly, because they hear light breathing next to them, and then the weight on their waist makes sense. Kibum turns, sees Jonghyun's sleeping face and relaxes when they remember what had (and hadn't) happened.
There's a sticky note stuck to his forehead and Kibum peels it off, careful not to disturb him, reads. It's from Woohyun, just says that he's bought them breakfast from McDonald's, and that he's going to question Kibum on everything when he gets done with class. There's also a little winky face, but Kibum ignores that.
Kibum reaches over Jonghyun to check their phone and their eyes widen when they see the time, 11:06. Jonghyun is going to be pissed.
“Jjong, wake up.” Kibum shakes Jonghyun gently and Jonghyun wrinkles his nose, eyes opening and then shutting when he sees Kibum.
“No…”
“It's past 11.”
At that, Jonghyun opens his eyes again. “Get dressed then, we gotta go.” he sits up and yawns, still sleepy, then falls back onto the bed, eyes shut.
It's almost 11:40 by the time Kibum is ready, what with choosing an outfit (they go off of what Jonghyun is wearing and end up in a black beanie and sweater and light ripped jeans) and putting on makeup (foundation, concealer, eyeliner and light contouring), then they go to Jonghyun, surprised to find him stretched out on Kibum's bed, busy on his phone.
“Busy?”
Jonghyun barely looks up, mumbles something, thumbs moving rapidly. It's another few minutes before he puts his phone down, grins. “Lyrics. It's a secret.”
“For Taemin?”
A pause. “Yeah. Let's go?”
“My roommate left us some food,” Kibum gets to the kitchen first and pulls out two cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets and fries, and Jonghyun brings the food to the microwave while Kibum pours them drinks.
They eat quietly, Jonghyun humming in short bursts and putting what Kibum assumes is guitar chords in his phone. Once they finish, they leave and Kibum drives, Jonghyun directing them and singing along with the radio. Jonghyun even coaxes Kibum to sing with him and the two end up splitting all the lines of Exo’s latest song Lucky One. Jonghyun laughs when the song finishes and says that between him, Taemin, Kibum and Jinki, they could be an idol group.
It's not long after that when they arrive at a plain looking building; Jonghyun covers Kibum's eyes when they try to read what the sign says, and then Jonghyun is dragging them inside. The surprise is ruined when Kibum reads the sign above the booth they end up at, and they pretend not to know where they are so Jonghyun can turn to them with skates and an eager grin.
“Ice skating? Jjong, how did you know?”
“Woohyun told me,” Jonghyun looks like a puppy then, with his eager eyes and wide grin, pleased with Kibum's praise.
Kibum takes one pair of skates and follows Jonghyun to the benches so they can change shoes, and follow Jonghyun onto the rink, beaming. Neither of them are very stable on the ice, Kibum because they haven't skated in years, Jonghyun because this is his first time. But it's fun, both of them clutching each other and giggling madly as they make their way around and around.
Jonghyun is soon tired and they decide to break for lunch. Jonghyun's cheeks are flushed red with the cold and exertion and his eyes are bright like the smile on his lips. He looks as happy as Kibum feels and they split a Hershey sundae pie before going out on the ice again. It seems like they're out there for only minutes, but then suddenly it’s five minutes until closing and they head out, surprised that the whole day is gone.
When they get to Kibum's building, Jonghyun stops, smile dimming. “I had a lot of fun,” he murmurs, “I'm going to miss you, a lot.”
Kibum pulls Jonghyun into a tight hug, “I'm going to miss you too.” they say into Jonghyun's neck, voice wavering.
“Promise you won't forget about me?”
“I promise.”
Jonghyun pulls away then, smile back in place, though it looks like he's going to cry. “I should go, I have a test. And it's my turn to cook. I'll - see you.”
“Jjong,” when Jonghyun turns around, “thanks.”
And almost as soon as Kibum gets upstairs, a text.
From Jjong: get in safe?
To Jjong: of course
To Jjong: you?
From Jjong: yeah
From Jjong: well kinda
From Jjong: I miss u already
Kibum doesn't answer, only because of the way Woohyun is now looking at them.
“You like him.”
“What, no! Jonghyun is with Taemin-”
“I never said Jonghyun,” Woohyun looks smug, “and besides, he could be poly.”
Kibum shrugs, “Even if I like him, there's no guarantee he likes me. You're not getting my hopes up for nothing, Namu.”
“If he doesn't like you, why were you two sleeping together?”
“He woke me up at seven. I told him to wake me up later and he didn't know what to do while he waited, so I said to climb in, and he did. Nothing else happened.”
“What about your date?”
“We went ice skating, that's it.”
“Why were you smiling at your phone?”
“He texted me asking if I got home safe just after he watched me enter the building and said he missed me already.”
“He likes you.”
“Brilliant deduction, Sherlock. He has Taemin. Aren't you tired?”
“Do you like him?”
“I could. Can we leave it at that?”
“I just want you to be happy, you know that.”
“I know you mean well, but I don't need someone else to be happy.”
Woohyun gives Kibum a tired smile and nods. “Fine, fine. Picked up some cake, want some?”
“Your turn isn't until Thursday-”
“It's that chocolate fudge one you like.”
They eat it straight from the pan and fall asleep on the couch, tv still playing in the background.
It's a text that wakes Kibum, from Jinki. Which is kind of surprising, but then, it's Wednesday.
From Jinki: what time do you want to go out?
To Jinki: after 5?
From Jinki: I'll be there around 7
It's short, straight to the point and almost formal, and Kibum isn't surprised by that at all. Kibum turns to Woohyun and wipes a streak of cake icing from his cheek, then nudges him none too gently. Woohyun barely budges, and Kibum huffs and pushes him off the couch. Which does work, Even if Woohyun does glare at Kibum before rolling over and letting out a loud groan.
“Kibum, I don't want to go to class,” he moans.
“Get up, you skip too much.”
“Mental health days!”
“You mean League of Legends days. Your mental health is fine, get up.”
“Make me breakfast?”
“You're so needy,” Kibum stands anyway though, nudges Woohyun with their foot, “where's your charger? The portable one.”
“On my desk, probably. Scrambled eggs, thanks.”
“Toast?”
“Yeah, I'll make a sandwich.”
Kibum listens for the sounds of Woohyun getting ready while they cook, yells at him only once to get off his laptop and doesn't even have to pry away his phone when Woohyun slumps onto the kitchen, yawning.
“So who's taking you out today?”
“Jinki. Jonghyun's roommate, the one that almost broke my phone.”
“Oh, interesting. Jonghyun's roommate.”
“He almost broke-”
“Maybe he'll know if Jonghyun likes-”
“No, I am not asking him if Jonghyun likes me, especially since Jonghyun has Taemin.”
“You don't have to ask him,” Woohyun takes a bite of his sandwich, “I will. That's what friends are for.”
“Fuck you.”
Woohyun rolls up his sleeves, grinning, “I've got people for that.” and Kibum stares, because all the marks on Woohyun’s arms make tattoo sleeves of words in English, Korean, doodles, even what looks like actual tattoos.
“How many soulmates-”
“Six. Hoya’s the one that did all the tattoos, though. Makes it seem like there's more, but then, have you met Suho? He's in our year, and he has eleven soulmates. It's really complicated, but it works for them.”
“Impressive, but you're going to be late.”
Woohyun looks at his watch, and his eyes widen as he curses under his breath. “I'll see you later!”
Kibum doesn't have class until 12, so they go outside and paint for a while, just the sky and the buildings around them. They pack their things up and switch out their art materials for their biology stuff, then head to class.
From Jjong: do you have class now
To Jjong: yeah why
From Jjong: im boooored
To Jjong: do u have class later
From Jjong: no i only have class until 11:30 on wednesydydays
To Jjong: ill meet you later
From Jjong: !!!!!!!
From Jjong: come to my room yeyeye
Kibum can practically see Jonghyun now, wiggling in excitement. There would be that uncontrollable grin on his lips and his eyes would squint into crescents and he'd probably laugh, the cute one where-
Kibum shakes their head to get rid of those thoughts, frowning. Eyes squinting into crescents, cute laugh? Kibum decides they'll have to go to bed early tonight. And that's the first thing they tell Jonghyun when they get to his dorm, ignoring Jonghyun's amused grin.
“You'll get your beauty sleep,” he teases, “Jinki didn't do anything especially elaborate.”
“Not surprising,” Kibum shrugs, “we're not exactly close.”
“I want you to be, though,” Jonghyun looks shy now, “I love you most. And Taemin.”
Oh. “What did you want to show me?” Kibum asks instead, biting their lip to keep from smiling.
“Huh?”
“You wanted me to come over so badly, I thought you had something to show me.”
Jonghyun brightens then and nods, “Oh, I do! In my room.”
Jonghyun's guitar is on his bed and he pushes all the papers scattered around it onto his desk, patting the bed for Kibum. “Sit.” When they're both settled, Jonghyun gives Kibum another shy little grin, “I wrote this last night, so it's still kind of...well. I thought a lot about you leaving and I'm going to miss you a lot, and I realized how stupid I'd been when you told us and I'm sorry and I love you. So. I wrote this.”
Kibum's mind was still stuck on the shockingly honest words Jonghyun had just spoken (he'd said I love you) so they don't hear most of the song, but what does stick out is one of the verses:
As if it was passing by, I saw your smile
I’ve already deeply fallen
Look at those chic eyes
Come on, the spilling sunlight
Your shoulder line shines even more
Baby, you’re dazzling
Jonghyun puts his guitar down when he's done, bites his lip as he waits for Kibum to speak. And when they don't, a quiet, “I think I'm going to call it White T-Shirt. Because that's what you were wearing when we first met. Remember?”
Kibum doesn't remember, and that makes it even worse. “Jjong, you-”
“Promise you won't forget me,” sincerity is written all over Jonghyun's face, “you're my best friend , Kibum.”
“Then what am, I?” That's Jinki, he looks amused as he leans against the doorframe, eyeing them both.
“You're Jinki.” Jonghyun says decisively, and that's the end of that.
“Want to stop somewhere before the movie? I'm hungry.”
“Not really,” Kibum shrugs. They can feel Jinki’s gaze on them, but they pull out their phone to show they're unfazed. A quiet snort and they pull out the lot, the radio off. It's awkward, Jinki likes ballads and Kibum likes American music, and then the only thing they have in common is Jonghyun, and how would you bring up the guy that you kind of maybe have a crush on with his roommate-
“Jonghyun is very fond of you.”Jinki says then, slow like he's thinking of each word as he says it.
Kibum checks their face in their phone screen and is pleased to see that they aren't blushing. “I like him too, what of it?”
“When Jonghyun loves, he puts his whole heart into it. I don't want him to get hurt by someone that wouldn't do the same.”
“You think I'm playing with him?”
“I never said that.” Jinki's tone is mild, almost amused.
“I'm not the one you should be lecturing. Taemin isn't in love with Jonghyun either, but just because they're soulmates-"
“I never said it had to be a romantic relationship. And believe me, Kibum,” here, Jinki's tone turns bitter, and he rubs at his arm almost absently, “I don't exactly love the idea of soulmates either.”
It's silent from then on, and they even watch the movie - the new Marvel one, Civil War - in silence. Jinki does buy Kibum snacks for the movie in apology, and Kibum shares his popcorn and candy, their own idea of a truce.
“Did you like the movie?” Jinki asks when they get in the car.
“I thought it was good. I think Jonghyun would've liked it more, though.”
“Probably,” Jinki shrugs, “he likes these kinds of movies more than me.”
“Taemin too, I'm surprised they didn't go together.”
“I think I know, does Taemin like Cap or Tony?”
“Is that really it, they're so…”
“Immature?”
“I was going to say stupid, but that works too. I take it back, they're perfect for each other.”
“How do you know Taemin?”
“We danced together in high school. How'd he and Jjong meet?”
“Taemin's job. Jjong kept coming back and Taemin found out they were soulmates and didn't tell Jonghyun.”
“Yeah, that sounds like something he'd do. He could get away with murder if he wanted to.”
“And Jjong would let him,” Jinki shakes his head, grinning, “guess soulmates really are perfect for each other.”
“Not always.”
From Jjong: how was the movie? Which one was it?
To Jjong: it was good, civil war
From Jjong: JINK I TOOK U TO DEE CIVIL W AR AN D NOT ME IM GOING TO FIG HT HIM
To Jjong: go with tae
From Jjong: never, that traitor
“Jjong called Taemin a traitor over the movie, and he's mad at you for not taking him. Have fun dealing with that.”
From Jjong: if he doesnt have his key im not openign the door for him
From Jjong: so there
“Jinki, do you have your room key?”
“No, why?”
“You'll see.”
To Jjong: dont be mean, he doenst have it
From Jjong: uh no
To Jjong: ill get you sm model’s autographs
From Jjong: idc abt them so there
To Jjong: you could sell it, who wouldnt pay for sm autographs?
From Jjong: deal
When they pull into the lot, Kibum reaches over and pats Jinki's arm. “Have a good night, Jinki.”
“You too?”
To Taeminnie: take jjong to see civil war
From Taeminnie: nah
To Taeminnie: ill get you choi minhos autograph while im in america
From Taeminnie: deal
Kibum wakes up at almost noon to find that his alarm had been turned off, and they stalk into the kitchen to find Woohyun waiting at the table.
“Oh, you're up. I made American breakfast, since you're leaving soon.”
“Why's my alarm off?”
“Today's my day. You needed the rest.” Woohyun shrugs and brings Kibum a plate of waffles, then goes to pour them both drinks. Strawberry milk for Kibum, apple juice for himself.
“So what's your plan, Namu?”
“Absolutely nothing. You need to rest before you leave, so that's what we're going to do.”
“So were you too lazy to come up with something, or did you forget?”
“Bit of both. But you have to admit, that was a damn good excuse.”
“Maybe if I didn't know you so well, slacker.”
“I downloaded all the Ghibli films, what's first?”
“Howl’s Moving Castle. And then we watch them all in order.”
“My room, then. I got the projector screen working and everything.” (At the cost of his only window, but Woohyun didn't mind.)
“Good. And ice cream?”
“Of course.”
They spend the day lazing around, eating junk food. Kibum says it's going to make their face terribly bloated, but they eat almost as much as Woohyun, and that's saying something. Woohyun falls asleep at around 2 in the afternoon with his head on Kibum's shoulder and Kibum eases out of bed and turns the movie and the lights off so Woohyun can sleep, then pulls on a sweater to go outside.
To Taeminnie: wyd
From Taeminnie: banging jjong
To Taeminnie: …
From Taeminnie: kidding. We're at his dorm recording songs
From Taeminnie: white t shirt was rlly cute, im jealous lol
To Taeminnie: tell jjong hi
Kibum heads to Starbucks after that and orders a hibiscus refresher and a blueberry scone and eats alone, checking their reflection in their phone (the fake glasses don't actually go that well with the length their bangs are at) every so often and observing the passersby and what they're wearing.
Kibum realizes, then, that they need new clothes to wear for New York, and who better to ask than Nicole?
To Namu: I need new clothes, be back later
Woohyun doesn't answer, as expected, so Kibum texts Nicole.
To Nicole: mall?
From Nicole: meet u in 10
They meet at the entrance to the mall in seven minutes; immediately Nicole marches Kibum to Victoria's Secret - Kibum is well used to this and dutifully holds Nicole's pile for her and helps her choose between lavender and mint green and baby blue and no definitely not red. They leave and Kibum carries Nicole's bag for her while she buys them pretzels (layered with cinnamon and sugar) and they sit down so Kibum can lay out their strategy.
“I want something simple for the plane ride, comfortable but also…”
“Head turning?”
“Exactly, and for my first day-”
“This.” Nicole shows him her phone screen and Kibum nods. Leather jacket, plain top, dark jeans ripped all the way up to the thighs.
“How could I live without you?”
“I wonder sometimes. I'm going to buy shoes, I'll show you how they look. Meet you here later.”
“Of course.” Kibum watches Nicole disappear into the crowd and then goes the other way. They quickly find the outfit Nicole planned for them and add a plaid button up to tie around their waist, and a white cap just in case their hair looks bad. It won't, but it's a precaution. Their airport outfit though, proves to be harder, until they spot a white translucent shirt (in the women's section, but who cares) and dark jeans, and - Kibum had their outfit.
From Nicole: CRISIS I can't choose what to get
To Nicole: where are you
From Nicole: went to macys for makeup
To Nicole: you went to get makeup without me?
From Nicole: I got you your eyeliner and concealer, calm down
To Nicole: ...omw
When Nicole spots Kibum, she holds up a handful of lipstick shades. “I need red, but the pink looks so cute, but this nude looks good too, and-”
“Just get them all. This pink instead though.” Kibum holds up a different shade and Nicole frowns, takes it.
“You know me best,” she says, “it had better work.”
“It will. I'm feeling smoothies, you?”
“If you pay.”
“Of course.”
From Woohyun: tell nicole hi
From Woohyun: come home tho it's still my day
To Woohyun: youre lucky I already got what I needed
To Woohyun: want a smoothie?
From Woohyun: mango strawberry
To Woohyun: see you soon then
“I have to go, still have to finish my design project.”
“Want help?”
“No, you need to pack, don't you?”
“I probably should, but will I?”
“You'll probably repack a good five times. Maybe seven.”
“Shut up,” Kibum nudges Nicole and she nudges him back, smile turning sad, “gonna miss you, Kibummie.”
“Miss you too, Cole.” Kibum holds out their arms for a hug and Nicole raises her brow.
“It's not that serious. I'll see you in what, four months?”
“I'm not getting you any souvenirs for that.”
“Bye, Kibum.”
Kibum's phone buzzes while they're driving and they check it when they get home.
From Nicole: get me choi minhos autograph or we're not friends anymore
To Nicole: you got it
Woohyun is lounging in the couch when Kibum gets inside, he frowns at Kibum and holds out his hand for his smoothie. “You abandoned me on my day?”
“Nicole is important to me too, Namu.”
“You wouldn't do that to Jonghyun,” Woohyun sulks, “I'm your roommate.”
“And my best friend. Even if you are needy-”
“That's my job, Bummie. Should we pack?”
“I'll do it, don't worry. Go play League.”
From Jjong: bummie, question
To Jjong: shoot
From Jjong: you said dance is to u what music is to me
From Jjong: music is my life, so why are you with sm for fashion and not a dance place?
To Jjong: I'd originally wanted to be an idol tbh, auditioned with sm and everything
To Jjong: they didn't take me, so I gave up on professional dancing
From Jjong: just bc of that?
To Jjong: if only
Kibum turns their phone on silent after that and goes to pack; shoves a good fourth of their closet into their suitcase because they know they'll buy too many clothes in New York. They make sure to write down in their phone to get souvenirs Jinki, Taemin, Jonghyun, Nicole and Woohyun, and autographs for Jonghyun, Taemin and Nicole. And all by Choi Minho of course.
Woohyun barges in just then, “Let's go out. Just a quick walk around.”
Kibum looks from Woohyun’s eager face to their suitcase and back, sighs. “Help me close this and we'll go.”
“You need to pack less, Bum.”
“I need to pack the best, Namu. I can't wear anything less, especially around models. SM models at that.”
“Fine, fine. Get me something cool from America. Something expensive-”
“Don't push it, Namu.”
Woohyun sits back with a loud huff and stares at Kibum's half closed suitcase in aggravation. “You packed too much.”
“You need a haircut.”
“Dye it too.”
“You know the drill then, we'll do it tomorrow.”
“We're going to your boyfriend's dorm right? I'll pick up the food when I leave Sunggyu’s.”
“Don't leave too late - and Jonghyun is not my boyfriend!”
“He wrote you a song and titled it after what you were wearing when you met him.”
“He has good memory then.”
“He likes you. Ask him out.”
“A day before I leave? No way.”
“When you get back then.”
“Namu, please.”
“If he does like you?”
“If he still does when I get back, maybe.”
“Good, I'm going to Sunggyu’s!”
“I thought we were going for a walk-"
“Bye, Bummie!”
To Jinki: why don't you like soulmates?
From Jinki: I'll tell you another time
They all have classes in the morning, so they decide to meet at Jonghyun and Jinki's dorm whenever they finish their last class; Kibum gets there and it's just Jonghyun and Taemin, they're sitting on the floor playing cards.
“Hey Kibummie,”Jonghyun says when Kibum announces their presence, “wanna play a game with us?”
“What are you playing?”
“Palace. It's like...Taemin, you explain. Kibummie, want a drink?”
“Just a water?”
Jonghyun nods and hands his cards to Taemin, who shuffles while explaining the game. It's pretty easy and Kibum catches on quickly, manages to win - almost. Taemin catches them when they have just two cards left and wins, while Jonghyun just gives Kibum a soft smile and tells Kibum how good they did for their first time. All Kibum can think about is Jonghyun's hand on their thigh, but Jonghyun always has been fond of skinskip, so this doesn't necessarily mean anything, except Taemin is grinning at them so it must,
“I have to go to the bathroom.” Kibum stands abruptly and hurries to the bathroom. They are blushing, a little, and they pick at their bangs before fanning themself. It's hot and they wish they hadn't worn a sweater, and they want to tell Woohyun to bring them a shirt, but knowing him, he'd bring a shirt that clashes with the rest of Kibum's outfit and
“Kibummie? Should we deal you in?” It's Jonghyun, of course, he sounds concerned.
“Yeah.” Kibum opens the door before they can change their mind and Jonghyun is right there, Kibum tries to brush past him but Jonghyun grabs their wrist.
“Kibummie, can I ask you something?” It sounds important, and Kibum shakes Jonghyun's hand off their arm.
“Jonghyun, not now. Please?”
Jonghyun bites his lip, nods. Kibum follows him back out and Taemin is lounging on the floor, he frowns a little at Jonghyun, pursing his lips when Jonghyun shakes his head.
“Kibummie, wanna play again? Or something else?”
“Palace again is fine.”
Jinki comes in during the middle of that round and Woohyun comes in not ten minutes later with pizza and sodas. Taemin stretches across the entire couch and only lets Jonghyun sit next to him (Jonghyun just sits himself down on Taemin's lap, honestly) and the rest of them sit on the floor. Jinki brings out a bluetooth speaker and Woohyun connects his phone to it and then there's an impromptu karaoke session: they all end up shouting over each other to AOA’s Like A Cat and Taemin drags Kibum to do the dance while the rest of them cheer them on. Kibum spins around, laughing, and Jonghyun is right there, eager grin on his lips.
And then they're dancing together, Kibum's hands on Jonghyun's waist and Kibum can barely hear anything over the pounding of their heart. Jonghyun turns in their grip and wraps his arms around Kibum's neck, grinning up at them. “Kibummie,” Jonghyun says into Kibum's ear, “I really really like you-"
Kibum pushes Jonghyun away, breathes harsh, and Jonghyun doesn't fight it, even though he looks like he's going to cry. They escape to Jonghyun's bedroom and it's Taemin - of course - that finds them.
“Why'd you do that?” Taemin doesn't sound upset, just genuinely curious.
“You and him-”
“We're soulmates, okay, that doesn't mean anything. I'm not in love with him, Bum. You are. And don't play dumb, I've known you for what, six years?”
“You'd be fine with me dating your soulmate?”
Taemin shrugs. “So long as he's happy.”
“I'm leaving though.”
“Video chat then. If he still likes you when you get back and if you still like him, go for it.”
“Taemin...when did you become so level headed?”
“I've always been this way.”
“Yeah right. But Taemin?”
“Yeah?”
“Thanks.”
Taemin throws Kibum a lazy grin and nods. “No problem.”
Return to Part One
Part Three