Toxic: Stage Three. [ChaBean]
Fandom: VIXX (non!au)
Pairing: ChaBean
Word Count: 4100+
Rating: PG (mild language)
Summary: Hakyeon follows Hongbin to discover what he's been doing at night. A depiction of the events leading up to this.
Stage One. || Stage Two.
Stage 3: Filler Tension
Stage Three: FILLER TENSION
The studio had been daunting. They started recording for their first full album, most of the songs newly written. He knew their producers were perfectionists, but Hongbin was, also; hence the countless times of redoing the same lines until there was some type of satisfaction. Hongbin still left the recording studio disgruntled and disappointed, shoulders slumping in contrast to the way he brightened up with smiles of encouragement for the rest of the members. Taekwoon’s voice was always perfect. Jaehwan, if anything, would have to tone it down because it was too perfect. Sanghyuk had some of the struggles he did, but the youngest member was still so transformable like a budding flower, that he took each critique and overcame it well. Wonshik was Wonshik, and Hakyeon was--Hakyeon.
One morning, Hongbin awoke fairly early. They had another late night, but he was still restless. Dragging his feet as he came to the bathroom, he wasn’t expecting someone to be in there. Hakyeon and Taekwoon had their own bathroom connected to their room, Sanghyuk should already be dressed for class, and the other members were known for waking up later. So when he heard the shower running, he shrugged it off as maybe Wonshik getting up early for once as well (to shower, even. Did hell freeze over?).
Taking out his toothbrush, not even wanting to look at himself in the mirror, he squeezed a glob of toothpaste out, sighing as some of it missed the bristles and landed in the ceramic of the sink. “Why are you up already? Shouldn’t you be back in bed?” he spoke out, voice still gravelly from sleep, assuming it was his same-line friend.
Hakyeon’s sleep lately had been deep and undisturbed, even his mind too spent from the constant ‘go go go’ of preparing a full album to even spin one of his subconscious desires about a certain dongsaeng into a tormenting dream (or what he would consider a nightmare at this point). He woke just before his alarm was set to go off, silencing his phone so as not to disturb the slumbering lion in the room with him. Kicking the layers of covers off himself, he stretched with a quiet grunt before shuffling into the connected bathroom.
“I’m going to kill Jaehwan.” The leader mumbled to himself when he found his favorite coconut-banana scented body wash had gone missing--again. Slinging his towel over his shoulder he left his room to retrieve his treasured soap from the other bathroom the four youngest shared. There were perks to being old, like not having to share. Once he had stepped into the plainly decorated bathroom though he figured it was a waste of energy to walk all the way back to his room and risk disturbing Taekwoon so he just stripped, dropping his towel with his clothes on the floor, and hopped into the shower.
It wasn’t long after the hot spray had begun soothing the ache of his sore muscles that he heard someone else enter, which wasn’t uncommon in a dorm with six boys, only two bathrooms, and less than ideal time to get ready. It wasn’t something he ever paid any mind to before and had it been any other member he still wouldn’t have but it was Hongbin’s voice he heard and who’s blurred figured he saw through the tempered glass.
Judging from the nature of the question he could safely assume that the other thought he was Wonshik, the only one they’d ever be surprised to see up this early, “I should ask you the same thing. Managed to wake up without me tipping you out of your bed this time?” Hakyeon teased, anticipating Hongbin’s shock as he rinsed the shampoo from his hair.
Indeed it was shock jolting through his system, too tired for any filters, "Fuck! Hyung you scared me!" He mumbled around the plastic toothbrush he had between his lips. His eyes darted over and now that he looked more closely he could see the darker skin and red hair, already a mosaic due to the glass.
Finishing up this cleanse, he rinsed out his mouth and cleaned up his toothbrush before setting it back alongside the others'. "Why are you in our bathroom?" He thought to ask, turning around to lean back against the counter. The steam was beginning to fill the room but it wasn't noticeable yet, the mirror still clear. Also, it wasn't exactly normal protocol to linger around when one of the guys were showering. You were to do your business and move on. Yet there Hongbin was, camping out in the closed bathroom trying to start a casual conversation with his leader.
If Hongbin wanted to talk, then they would talk though he wasn’t sure if he was in the better position or not given he was naked. He supposed it was better than having to try and handle being around a naked, wet Hongbin, “I didn’t want to wake up Taekwoon. It took him awhile to fall asleep last night. And Jaehwan stole my body wash.”
As he spoke about it, he almost cuddled the bottle to his chest, settling instead for squeezing a palmful into his hand and lathering his body. It wasn’t long before the fruity scent began mixing with the steamy air, “You’ve been doing really well lately Hongbin, you shouldn’t get so down on yourself.” Even if they had never talked about it, as a leader he knew when something was up with one of his members. Ever since MyDol Hakyeon knew how much pressure Hongbin put on himself, wanting to be more than just the artwork, always setting out to prove himself and as a leader he did his best to try and keep his members’ spirits up. He always threw away his usual nicknames for the members whenever he really wanted them to take him seriously.
The other's words... They floated over the glass wall, reverberated off the tiled walls, and bounced right into his chest where it tightened immediately. His faltering expression couldn't be seen by the other, but he was positive Hakyeon could hear it in his voice... "H...yung..." He hated talking about this because no matter what the members said, it wouldn't boost his confidence. If anything it lay in the hands of the fans, and of course the producers and decision makers.
"I'm not down," he tried to pick himself up, the pounding in his chest threatening to clog up his throat. "I just want to show the best image I can for our first album." A beauty queen answer, yes, but he didn't want to discuss his insecurities in the bathroom. "You're doing a great job, hyung. You should be more gentle with yourself." Directing it back at the leader, he knew Hakyeon also held lots of grief over performing at his best, leading them all well while still showing no weakness.
He slowly inhaled, overcome with the fruity palate amidst the thickening moisture in the air. He glanced behind him and saw the steamed mirror, reaching out to draw a smiley face with its tongue sticking out and the word, Njumma. Snorting to himself, satisfied, his eyes drifted back to the shower glass and he abruptly swallowed, finding this unprecedented heat filling his cheeks.
He needed to get out, and soon. Not just out of the bathroom, but out of this dorm, out of this studio, out of this anxiety.
“Don’t even think about lying to me Lee Hongbin.” As obnoxious and almost oblivious it seemed he could be at times, Hakyeon had gotten good at reading people. Body language was the most obvious to give away a lie but he had picked up on listening for the subtle things in a person’s voice: a slight tremor, a hesitation, a change in pitch. No matter how much Hongbin hated talking about his insecurities, it wasn’t going to stop anytime soon now or in the future.
“Ya...don’t twist this back around on me, Binnie.” He continued scolding, letting the scented suds travel down his dark skin, swirling around the drain before making their exit, “If I was any more gentle you all would be taking advantage of my already kind nature.”
Shutting the water off, he slid the shower door open just enough to peek his head out, and stick his tongue between his lips before giving a light chuckle, “Hand me my towel.” His bangs had gotten so long now that they hung over his eyes, the stylist noonas wouldn’t let him get them cut since they were scheduled for makeovers soon. He pushed them back off his face, revealing that ever mysterious forehead that had remained hidden from fans since before debut. While all the other members had gone through drastic hairstyle changes, some better than others, his was only ever styled or cut with just the slightest of difference.
Hongbin was stiff, taking a moment for him to register Hakyeon's words since he wasn't expecting this type of conversation so early in the morning. When the other asked for a towel, it took an extra second to get his limbs working, stepping over to take the dark blue towel and hand it over. "Hyung," he said, round eyes fixating on the other. "I don't know why you care what I think about myself. As long as I work harder for the group, right?"
Returning to the sink, he let a breath expel, so slow that he was trying to relax. He knew what he needed. It's been too long.
Ducking back into the shower, he ruffled his hair with the towel, and then his body, to rid it of the excess water before tying it around his waist and stepping out, “Do you really have to ask that?” Hakyeon was a bit disappointed that the other couldn't see he only wanted the best for him, for everyone. He wanted them to truly love and be passionate about what they did.
Stepping a bit closer he rested his hands on Hongbin’s shoulders. There was just the tiniest bit of height difference between them but Hakyeon could still look into his eyes with his own that glowed with warmth and love, his expression and voice mimicking those emotions, "Why do you do this if you're not confident in yourself? You have so much potential Hongbin and you've come so far. I see it, the members see it, the fans see it. It just takes longer for some people, and they're the ones missing out on something great."
Though the statements were processing, his lips were still tight. If Hakyeon was seeing through him there was no point in masking his emotions. "Thank you, hyung," Hongbin muttered, the weight on his shoulders actually comforting. That was the characteristic about Hakyeon's personality he always appreciated. His care for the members surpassed his introverted personality. While people like Wonshik or Taekwoon noticed, they would only speak to him about it if he came to them first. Sometimes Wonshik would ask if he was alright, but when he nodded and assured he was, he left it alone. Hakyeon was ever the persistent one, prying and interrogating until he felt satisfied by the answers.
"They'll come around, right?" His mouth quirked upward on one side, an indifferent gesture that carried the tiniest bit of hope. Until then, he'd still push himself to the limits and beyond until those last remaining people acknowledged it. The younger male finally took in the older's appearance, lashes lowering as his gaze did so, spotting the water droplets decorating his skin with little glistening sparkles. Out of nowhere the steam felt suffocating and his fingers gripped harder onto the counter edge. He raised his eyes back to Hakyeon's face, silent as he observed the towel-clothed member. Finally his voice piped up, "Can you let us out of practice a little early tonight?"
Even though the other knew he was being completely sincere, Hakyeon knew what a struggle Hongbin still had with fully accepting himself. Seeing that tiny quirk of his lips as he seeked reassurance though was all he needed to know he was at least starting to get through to him, “Of course they will!” Hakyeon answered brightly, “And if they don’t I’ll make them.” He removed a hand to pound his own chest like the proud and confident leader he was, sure he could convince anyone of anything if needed.
He noticed the other’s dropped gaze but paid it no mind, simply waiting until their eyes met again. But it would be a lie to say he felt nothing having Hongbin scan him so meticulously, very aware of the fact that he was in just a towel and his heart rate increased slightly.
Normally he would have prodded him with some sort of remark along the lines of “like what you see?” or “take a picture, it’ll last longer” but that had its proper place and time and now wasn’t it.
“Let you out early? Hmm...as long as you promise to keep working hard and be more confident in yourself I should be able to swing that.” With a final reassuring pat to Hongbin’s shoulder, he began ushering him towards the door, “Now leave. I know I was gifted with natural beauty but reaching my full sexiness takes a little more work.”
"Oh god, hyung," he rolled his eyes and scooted on out, not affording him with another glance.
That night as Hakyeon promised, had turned the music off a couple of hours earlier than normal. All of the guys looked between one another in confusion, clothes dripping in sweat (Hongbin seems always the most drenched), as Hakyeon clapped his hands announcing practice was over. Hesitating for a moment, it was Sanghyuk who was the first to cheer, blubbering off about how he could catch up on Naruto. Then the rest followed, Hongbin jumping up and down with Wonshik and the youngest.
All grins and light laughter as moments later they were all trailing out of the building, Hongbin asked Wonshik if he wanted to go get something to eat.
"Nah, man. I've got sleep to catch up on." Wonshik was looking awfully tired, his spare time outside of practice dedicated to song writing. He was trying to contribute a whole song to the new album.
Hongbin nodded in understanding, deciding he could easily go alone. It'd be easier to slip off if he was solo. "I'll catch you all later," he waved to the guys. It wasn't abnormal, since Jaehwan agreed to accompany Sanghyuk to a PC-Bang. He didn't even look at Hakyeon, not wanting to see any suspicious stares. Wearing fresh clothes since they always kept extra garments at the studio, he tread quickly down the street.
Hakyeon knew this morning the reason why Hongbin wanted to end early; knowing what he did he was able to see right through it. The leader was trying to coax Taekwoon into playing some video games with him when they got back to the dorm, knowing he would refuse and just using it as a way to stall until he saw the younger man try and “sneak” off on his own. What he didn’t anticipate was having a reason to actually go after him, hearing Wonshik turn down the invitation for dinner.
“Oh you’re always such a buzzkill, Taekwoonie. Learn to have some fun! I’ll just go play with Hongbin then.” Taekwoon wasn’t so oblivious either, noticing the way Hakyeon had been sneaking glances at Hongbin while they were talking. Something was up, he just didn’t know what.
“Binnie!” The leader screamed cheerfully from half a block away, ignoring the annoyed looks thrown his way as he jogged to catch up, “I overheard you looking for a dinner date! What are you treating your hyung to?” His arm slipped naturally into the other's as he put on his cutest face, grinning from ear to ear because he knew Hongbin would be less than thrilled to see him.
If was true, he was less than thrilled. "Hyung, why do I have to pay for you?" He didn't exactly send him away, but he did sound quite reluctant to agree to this. His pace slowed since now he had a hummingbird attached to him.
Hongbin didn't even bring up what they were eating for debate. He had a craving for donkatsu. It settled well in his stomach and didn't risk coming out so easily if he chose to drink a lot later. When they came to the restaurant he had in mind several blocks later, mostly listening to Hakyeon narrating events and laughing on his own about them, he actually was so nice as to open the door for the elder. "Age before beauty," he smirked. It was one of those tiny shops you'd miss if you didn't know it was there; Family owned and unassuming enough that he wouldn't have to worry about any cameras.
He was surprised when they had reached their destination so quickly and the open door presented to him; had he been talking the whole time? Very likely. Now it was his turn to roll his eyes at the other man as he stepped into the welcomed warmth of the restaurant; being family owned it was decorated in a more traditional style, requiring shoes to be taken off at the door before stepping onto the wooden floor, “You can only dream about being this good-looking when you’re my age.” He teased back, glad to see Hongbin was at least in the mood for being a little playful and hopefully not too upset about his plans being interrupted yet again.
He fetched waters for the pair of them while Hongbin ordered and picked their seat; he wasn’t a picky eater, trusting what food would be brought out to him. Crossing his legs and settling down across from him, Hakyeon got right to the point, “So is this going to become a problem? How long do you think you’re going to keep trying to sneak out? You had to have known I would know why you wanted to get done with practice early. Planning to go back to that club again?” He rattled off question after question, but he wanted answers.
Hongbin knew the few restrictions Hakyeon had and kept those in mind as he ordered. When the older woman offered her daughter's hand in marriage, he laughed it out and said it was an honor. But she was bustling off and Hakyeon returned, the ever so handsome senior citizen.
However, the second he was under rapid fire with questions, he sighed in agitation. "Hyung, can't I just eat my food in peace?" He rarely let himself get riled up, but right now he was on the edge of it, tired out by Hakyeon always cornering him whenever they were alone. His hyung really needed to lighten up.
Sipping at his water, his only direct answer to any of those questions was, "You can't stop me."
“You owe me answers, Hongbin.” He stated flatly, clearly not about to let this go, not when they had time now just the two of them to hash it out. His lip curled in annoyance that the other would give such a rebellious teenager answer, but that’s exactly what he was. And it was the truth, which was what annoyed Hakyeon the most, “I can’t, but you can’t stop me from coming with you either.”
Satisfied with his comeback, he gave a stern nod of his head before hooking his arms over his chest and sitting up straighter, as if daring Hongbin to continue challenging him.
Hongbin let those words hang between them. Hakyeon joining him? He wasn't going to let the other deter him from partaking in what he needed, but he also knew it may be the only way. Hakyeon could be like a leech and it was easier most of the time to just let him cling.
"Fine," he shrugged, and then looked up as the food was quickly served, two bowls of donkatsu on rice with fried egg on top. "But you're not exactly in the right attire." Hongbin had changed into jeans, riding his form so nicely that his already slender legs looked thinner. Beneath his thick coat, he had on a v-neck that stretched down, showcasing the dip between his collar bones at the base of his neck. He started to dig into the food, anxious to get going.
Hongbin was just going to let him tag along? No questions, no arguing? Why did he need this so badly? What was he getting himself into that he couldn’t stop, that he was so willing to just let the red-head tag along like some homeless puppy?
Whatever the reason he couldn’t be bothered to dwell on it for too long, not when there was a plate of delicious pork and rice steaming in front of him. Hongbin’s comment was met with just the rise and fall of his shoulders, thanking the ajumma before grabbing his fork and cutting a large chunk of the meat. After sliding it into his mouth he scooped up a spoonful of rice and shoveled that in as well. It wasn’t often they got to eat what they wanted, truth be told they were eating this against their dietary orders, so Hakyeon was going to enjoy it while he could.
“I don’t care. You’re the one who has to be seen with me.” He finally answered, his mouth full but he had chewed enough to be able to speak a little. Hakyeon was still in his practice clothes: a pair of sweatpants, black yet loose but also tight in all the right places, a long sleeved shirt of the same color with a single ivory stripe across the chest, and a Chicago Bulls snapback that he had borrowed from Wonshik. Well, taken more so than borrowed but the rapper had plenty to spare. He could admit to himself that the way Hongbin had dressed didn’t go unnoticed, sneaking glances at the skin of his defined chest when the other was looking down at his food or the TV mounted in the corner of the restaurant.
When they finished eating, he paid, setting some bills on the table and giving the other a smile. "You owe me next time." From there, he stood up, giving the owners a wave and bow before he went to the entryway, sliding into his shoes and pushing the door open. The temperature considerably dropped in the short amount of time they ate, causing him to shiver and briefly rub his palms over his arms. He looked back at Hakyeon, briefly concerned about his well-being. "Are you following me?" He asked, starting to walk off to a main street where he could catch a taxi. "You still have time to change your mind," he called over his shoulder.
Hongbin made it to the curb, his hand shooting out to hail a cab down. One stopped fairly quickly because he was--well, good looking to put it frankly. Opening the door, he cast Hakyeon one look to see if he was coming.
Hakyeon just nodded; he owed a lot of people a lot of things and would add it alongside the others in his mental note: Taekwoon-coffee, Ken-a few episodes of One Piece, Wonshik-a snapback to replace the one he had borrowed but his room had eaten, Hyuk-the newest book of the Naruto manga, Hongbin-dinner.
The thought had crossed his mind to continue to follow him, but his last and only experience at the club hadn’t been the most pleasant and he had “kids” to get home to who would be wondering where he went, “No. You’re an adult, I can’t control you or make decisions for you. You do whatever the hell you want but Lee Hongbin, you better not do anything to jeopardize or hurt this team.”
His arms were crossed over his chest to combat the cold night air, stern and threatening gaze watching Hongbin as he got into the cab and drove off. Once Hakyeon had made it back home, he was immediately bombarded with a clingy maknae and questions of, “Where did you go? Where have you been? Where’s Hongbin-hyung? When is he coming home?” He shook the young kid off with a ruffle of his hair, lying to him that “he was out with friends” again before retreating to his room. He wasn’t safe there either, receiving a questioning raised brow look from his roommate which he just stuck his tongue out at before disappearing into the bathroom to shower and get ready for bed.
Stage Four.
a/n:
We just want to make you all suffer and wait in anticipation for what's going to happen. Just a little heads up~ chapter 4 will be split into two parts since we were so enthusiastic we wrote a lot. Enjoy~ - JKun
Yes, this is the actual title. - Mars
Pairing: ChaBean
Word Count: 4100+
Rating: PG (mild language)
Summary: Hakyeon follows Hongbin to discover what he's been doing at night. A depiction of the events leading up to this.
Stage One. || Stage Two.
Stage 3: Filler Tension
Stage Three: FILLER TENSION
The studio had been daunting. They started recording for their first full album, most of the songs newly written. He knew their producers were perfectionists, but Hongbin was, also; hence the countless times of redoing the same lines until there was some type of satisfaction. Hongbin still left the recording studio disgruntled and disappointed, shoulders slumping in contrast to the way he brightened up with smiles of encouragement for the rest of the members. Taekwoon’s voice was always perfect. Jaehwan, if anything, would have to tone it down because it was too perfect. Sanghyuk had some of the struggles he did, but the youngest member was still so transformable like a budding flower, that he took each critique and overcame it well. Wonshik was Wonshik, and Hakyeon was--Hakyeon.
One morning, Hongbin awoke fairly early. They had another late night, but he was still restless. Dragging his feet as he came to the bathroom, he wasn’t expecting someone to be in there. Hakyeon and Taekwoon had their own bathroom connected to their room, Sanghyuk should already be dressed for class, and the other members were known for waking up later. So when he heard the shower running, he shrugged it off as maybe Wonshik getting up early for once as well (to shower, even. Did hell freeze over?).
Taking out his toothbrush, not even wanting to look at himself in the mirror, he squeezed a glob of toothpaste out, sighing as some of it missed the bristles and landed in the ceramic of the sink. “Why are you up already? Shouldn’t you be back in bed?” he spoke out, voice still gravelly from sleep, assuming it was his same-line friend.
Hakyeon’s sleep lately had been deep and undisturbed, even his mind too spent from the constant ‘go go go’ of preparing a full album to even spin one of his subconscious desires about a certain dongsaeng into a tormenting dream (or what he would consider a nightmare at this point). He woke just before his alarm was set to go off, silencing his phone so as not to disturb the slumbering lion in the room with him. Kicking the layers of covers off himself, he stretched with a quiet grunt before shuffling into the connected bathroom.
“I’m going to kill Jaehwan.” The leader mumbled to himself when he found his favorite coconut-banana scented body wash had gone missing--again. Slinging his towel over his shoulder he left his room to retrieve his treasured soap from the other bathroom the four youngest shared. There were perks to being old, like not having to share. Once he had stepped into the plainly decorated bathroom though he figured it was a waste of energy to walk all the way back to his room and risk disturbing Taekwoon so he just stripped, dropping his towel with his clothes on the floor, and hopped into the shower.
It wasn’t long after the hot spray had begun soothing the ache of his sore muscles that he heard someone else enter, which wasn’t uncommon in a dorm with six boys, only two bathrooms, and less than ideal time to get ready. It wasn’t something he ever paid any mind to before and had it been any other member he still wouldn’t have but it was Hongbin’s voice he heard and who’s blurred figured he saw through the tempered glass.
Judging from the nature of the question he could safely assume that the other thought he was Wonshik, the only one they’d ever be surprised to see up this early, “I should ask you the same thing. Managed to wake up without me tipping you out of your bed this time?” Hakyeon teased, anticipating Hongbin’s shock as he rinsed the shampoo from his hair.
Indeed it was shock jolting through his system, too tired for any filters, "Fuck! Hyung you scared me!" He mumbled around the plastic toothbrush he had between his lips. His eyes darted over and now that he looked more closely he could see the darker skin and red hair, already a mosaic due to the glass.
Finishing up this cleanse, he rinsed out his mouth and cleaned up his toothbrush before setting it back alongside the others'. "Why are you in our bathroom?" He thought to ask, turning around to lean back against the counter. The steam was beginning to fill the room but it wasn't noticeable yet, the mirror still clear. Also, it wasn't exactly normal protocol to linger around when one of the guys were showering. You were to do your business and move on. Yet there Hongbin was, camping out in the closed bathroom trying to start a casual conversation with his leader.
If Hongbin wanted to talk, then they would talk though he wasn’t sure if he was in the better position or not given he was naked. He supposed it was better than having to try and handle being around a naked, wet Hongbin, “I didn’t want to wake up Taekwoon. It took him awhile to fall asleep last night. And Jaehwan stole my body wash.”
As he spoke about it, he almost cuddled the bottle to his chest, settling instead for squeezing a palmful into his hand and lathering his body. It wasn’t long before the fruity scent began mixing with the steamy air, “You’ve been doing really well lately Hongbin, you shouldn’t get so down on yourself.” Even if they had never talked about it, as a leader he knew when something was up with one of his members. Ever since MyDol Hakyeon knew how much pressure Hongbin put on himself, wanting to be more than just the artwork, always setting out to prove himself and as a leader he did his best to try and keep his members’ spirits up. He always threw away his usual nicknames for the members whenever he really wanted them to take him seriously.
The other's words... They floated over the glass wall, reverberated off the tiled walls, and bounced right into his chest where it tightened immediately. His faltering expression couldn't be seen by the other, but he was positive Hakyeon could hear it in his voice... "H...yung..." He hated talking about this because no matter what the members said, it wouldn't boost his confidence. If anything it lay in the hands of the fans, and of course the producers and decision makers.
"I'm not down," he tried to pick himself up, the pounding in his chest threatening to clog up his throat. "I just want to show the best image I can for our first album." A beauty queen answer, yes, but he didn't want to discuss his insecurities in the bathroom. "You're doing a great job, hyung. You should be more gentle with yourself." Directing it back at the leader, he knew Hakyeon also held lots of grief over performing at his best, leading them all well while still showing no weakness.
He slowly inhaled, overcome with the fruity palate amidst the thickening moisture in the air. He glanced behind him and saw the steamed mirror, reaching out to draw a smiley face with its tongue sticking out and the word, Njumma. Snorting to himself, satisfied, his eyes drifted back to the shower glass and he abruptly swallowed, finding this unprecedented heat filling his cheeks.
He needed to get out, and soon. Not just out of the bathroom, but out of this dorm, out of this studio, out of this anxiety.
“Don’t even think about lying to me Lee Hongbin.” As obnoxious and almost oblivious it seemed he could be at times, Hakyeon had gotten good at reading people. Body language was the most obvious to give away a lie but he had picked up on listening for the subtle things in a person’s voice: a slight tremor, a hesitation, a change in pitch. No matter how much Hongbin hated talking about his insecurities, it wasn’t going to stop anytime soon now or in the future.
“Ya...don’t twist this back around on me, Binnie.” He continued scolding, letting the scented suds travel down his dark skin, swirling around the drain before making their exit, “If I was any more gentle you all would be taking advantage of my already kind nature.”
Shutting the water off, he slid the shower door open just enough to peek his head out, and stick his tongue between his lips before giving a light chuckle, “Hand me my towel.” His bangs had gotten so long now that they hung over his eyes, the stylist noonas wouldn’t let him get them cut since they were scheduled for makeovers soon. He pushed them back off his face, revealing that ever mysterious forehead that had remained hidden from fans since before debut. While all the other members had gone through drastic hairstyle changes, some better than others, his was only ever styled or cut with just the slightest of difference.
Hongbin was stiff, taking a moment for him to register Hakyeon's words since he wasn't expecting this type of conversation so early in the morning. When the other asked for a towel, it took an extra second to get his limbs working, stepping over to take the dark blue towel and hand it over. "Hyung," he said, round eyes fixating on the other. "I don't know why you care what I think about myself. As long as I work harder for the group, right?"
Returning to the sink, he let a breath expel, so slow that he was trying to relax. He knew what he needed. It's been too long.
Ducking back into the shower, he ruffled his hair with the towel, and then his body, to rid it of the excess water before tying it around his waist and stepping out, “Do you really have to ask that?” Hakyeon was a bit disappointed that the other couldn't see he only wanted the best for him, for everyone. He wanted them to truly love and be passionate about what they did.
Stepping a bit closer he rested his hands on Hongbin’s shoulders. There was just the tiniest bit of height difference between them but Hakyeon could still look into his eyes with his own that glowed with warmth and love, his expression and voice mimicking those emotions, "Why do you do this if you're not confident in yourself? You have so much potential Hongbin and you've come so far. I see it, the members see it, the fans see it. It just takes longer for some people, and they're the ones missing out on something great."
Though the statements were processing, his lips were still tight. If Hakyeon was seeing through him there was no point in masking his emotions. "Thank you, hyung," Hongbin muttered, the weight on his shoulders actually comforting. That was the characteristic about Hakyeon's personality he always appreciated. His care for the members surpassed his introverted personality. While people like Wonshik or Taekwoon noticed, they would only speak to him about it if he came to them first. Sometimes Wonshik would ask if he was alright, but when he nodded and assured he was, he left it alone. Hakyeon was ever the persistent one, prying and interrogating until he felt satisfied by the answers.
"They'll come around, right?" His mouth quirked upward on one side, an indifferent gesture that carried the tiniest bit of hope. Until then, he'd still push himself to the limits and beyond until those last remaining people acknowledged it. The younger male finally took in the older's appearance, lashes lowering as his gaze did so, spotting the water droplets decorating his skin with little glistening sparkles. Out of nowhere the steam felt suffocating and his fingers gripped harder onto the counter edge. He raised his eyes back to Hakyeon's face, silent as he observed the towel-clothed member. Finally his voice piped up, "Can you let us out of practice a little early tonight?"
Even though the other knew he was being completely sincere, Hakyeon knew what a struggle Hongbin still had with fully accepting himself. Seeing that tiny quirk of his lips as he seeked reassurance though was all he needed to know he was at least starting to get through to him, “Of course they will!” Hakyeon answered brightly, “And if they don’t I’ll make them.” He removed a hand to pound his own chest like the proud and confident leader he was, sure he could convince anyone of anything if needed.
He noticed the other’s dropped gaze but paid it no mind, simply waiting until their eyes met again. But it would be a lie to say he felt nothing having Hongbin scan him so meticulously, very aware of the fact that he was in just a towel and his heart rate increased slightly.
Normally he would have prodded him with some sort of remark along the lines of “like what you see?” or “take a picture, it’ll last longer” but that had its proper place and time and now wasn’t it.
“Let you out early? Hmm...as long as you promise to keep working hard and be more confident in yourself I should be able to swing that.” With a final reassuring pat to Hongbin’s shoulder, he began ushering him towards the door, “Now leave. I know I was gifted with natural beauty but reaching my full sexiness takes a little more work.”
"Oh god, hyung," he rolled his eyes and scooted on out, not affording him with another glance.
That night as Hakyeon promised, had turned the music off a couple of hours earlier than normal. All of the guys looked between one another in confusion, clothes dripping in sweat (Hongbin seems always the most drenched), as Hakyeon clapped his hands announcing practice was over. Hesitating for a moment, it was Sanghyuk who was the first to cheer, blubbering off about how he could catch up on Naruto. Then the rest followed, Hongbin jumping up and down with Wonshik and the youngest.
All grins and light laughter as moments later they were all trailing out of the building, Hongbin asked Wonshik if he wanted to go get something to eat.
"Nah, man. I've got sleep to catch up on." Wonshik was looking awfully tired, his spare time outside of practice dedicated to song writing. He was trying to contribute a whole song to the new album.
Hongbin nodded in understanding, deciding he could easily go alone. It'd be easier to slip off if he was solo. "I'll catch you all later," he waved to the guys. It wasn't abnormal, since Jaehwan agreed to accompany Sanghyuk to a PC-Bang. He didn't even look at Hakyeon, not wanting to see any suspicious stares. Wearing fresh clothes since they always kept extra garments at the studio, he tread quickly down the street.
Hakyeon knew this morning the reason why Hongbin wanted to end early; knowing what he did he was able to see right through it. The leader was trying to coax Taekwoon into playing some video games with him when they got back to the dorm, knowing he would refuse and just using it as a way to stall until he saw the younger man try and “sneak” off on his own. What he didn’t anticipate was having a reason to actually go after him, hearing Wonshik turn down the invitation for dinner.
“Oh you’re always such a buzzkill, Taekwoonie. Learn to have some fun! I’ll just go play with Hongbin then.” Taekwoon wasn’t so oblivious either, noticing the way Hakyeon had been sneaking glances at Hongbin while they were talking. Something was up, he just didn’t know what.
“Binnie!” The leader screamed cheerfully from half a block away, ignoring the annoyed looks thrown his way as he jogged to catch up, “I overheard you looking for a dinner date! What are you treating your hyung to?” His arm slipped naturally into the other's as he put on his cutest face, grinning from ear to ear because he knew Hongbin would be less than thrilled to see him.
If was true, he was less than thrilled. "Hyung, why do I have to pay for you?" He didn't exactly send him away, but he did sound quite reluctant to agree to this. His pace slowed since now he had a hummingbird attached to him.
Hongbin didn't even bring up what they were eating for debate. He had a craving for donkatsu. It settled well in his stomach and didn't risk coming out so easily if he chose to drink a lot later. When they came to the restaurant he had in mind several blocks later, mostly listening to Hakyeon narrating events and laughing on his own about them, he actually was so nice as to open the door for the elder. "Age before beauty," he smirked. It was one of those tiny shops you'd miss if you didn't know it was there; Family owned and unassuming enough that he wouldn't have to worry about any cameras.
He was surprised when they had reached their destination so quickly and the open door presented to him; had he been talking the whole time? Very likely. Now it was his turn to roll his eyes at the other man as he stepped into the welcomed warmth of the restaurant; being family owned it was decorated in a more traditional style, requiring shoes to be taken off at the door before stepping onto the wooden floor, “You can only dream about being this good-looking when you’re my age.” He teased back, glad to see Hongbin was at least in the mood for being a little playful and hopefully not too upset about his plans being interrupted yet again.
He fetched waters for the pair of them while Hongbin ordered and picked their seat; he wasn’t a picky eater, trusting what food would be brought out to him. Crossing his legs and settling down across from him, Hakyeon got right to the point, “So is this going to become a problem? How long do you think you’re going to keep trying to sneak out? You had to have known I would know why you wanted to get done with practice early. Planning to go back to that club again?” He rattled off question after question, but he wanted answers.
Hongbin knew the few restrictions Hakyeon had and kept those in mind as he ordered. When the older woman offered her daughter's hand in marriage, he laughed it out and said it was an honor. But she was bustling off and Hakyeon returned, the ever so handsome senior citizen.
However, the second he was under rapid fire with questions, he sighed in agitation. "Hyung, can't I just eat my food in peace?" He rarely let himself get riled up, but right now he was on the edge of it, tired out by Hakyeon always cornering him whenever they were alone. His hyung really needed to lighten up.
Sipping at his water, his only direct answer to any of those questions was, "You can't stop me."
“You owe me answers, Hongbin.” He stated flatly, clearly not about to let this go, not when they had time now just the two of them to hash it out. His lip curled in annoyance that the other would give such a rebellious teenager answer, but that’s exactly what he was. And it was the truth, which was what annoyed Hakyeon the most, “I can’t, but you can’t stop me from coming with you either.”
Satisfied with his comeback, he gave a stern nod of his head before hooking his arms over his chest and sitting up straighter, as if daring Hongbin to continue challenging him.
Hongbin let those words hang between them. Hakyeon joining him? He wasn't going to let the other deter him from partaking in what he needed, but he also knew it may be the only way. Hakyeon could be like a leech and it was easier most of the time to just let him cling.
"Fine," he shrugged, and then looked up as the food was quickly served, two bowls of donkatsu on rice with fried egg on top. "But you're not exactly in the right attire." Hongbin had changed into jeans, riding his form so nicely that his already slender legs looked thinner. Beneath his thick coat, he had on a v-neck that stretched down, showcasing the dip between his collar bones at the base of his neck. He started to dig into the food, anxious to get going.
Hongbin was just going to let him tag along? No questions, no arguing? Why did he need this so badly? What was he getting himself into that he couldn’t stop, that he was so willing to just let the red-head tag along like some homeless puppy?
Whatever the reason he couldn’t be bothered to dwell on it for too long, not when there was a plate of delicious pork and rice steaming in front of him. Hongbin’s comment was met with just the rise and fall of his shoulders, thanking the ajumma before grabbing his fork and cutting a large chunk of the meat. After sliding it into his mouth he scooped up a spoonful of rice and shoveled that in as well. It wasn’t often they got to eat what they wanted, truth be told they were eating this against their dietary orders, so Hakyeon was going to enjoy it while he could.
“I don’t care. You’re the one who has to be seen with me.” He finally answered, his mouth full but he had chewed enough to be able to speak a little. Hakyeon was still in his practice clothes: a pair of sweatpants, black yet loose but also tight in all the right places, a long sleeved shirt of the same color with a single ivory stripe across the chest, and a Chicago Bulls snapback that he had borrowed from Wonshik. Well, taken more so than borrowed but the rapper had plenty to spare. He could admit to himself that the way Hongbin had dressed didn’t go unnoticed, sneaking glances at the skin of his defined chest when the other was looking down at his food or the TV mounted in the corner of the restaurant.
When they finished eating, he paid, setting some bills on the table and giving the other a smile. "You owe me next time." From there, he stood up, giving the owners a wave and bow before he went to the entryway, sliding into his shoes and pushing the door open. The temperature considerably dropped in the short amount of time they ate, causing him to shiver and briefly rub his palms over his arms. He looked back at Hakyeon, briefly concerned about his well-being. "Are you following me?" He asked, starting to walk off to a main street where he could catch a taxi. "You still have time to change your mind," he called over his shoulder.
Hongbin made it to the curb, his hand shooting out to hail a cab down. One stopped fairly quickly because he was--well, good looking to put it frankly. Opening the door, he cast Hakyeon one look to see if he was coming.
Hakyeon just nodded; he owed a lot of people a lot of things and would add it alongside the others in his mental note: Taekwoon-coffee, Ken-a few episodes of One Piece, Wonshik-a snapback to replace the one he had borrowed but his room had eaten, Hyuk-the newest book of the Naruto manga, Hongbin-dinner.
The thought had crossed his mind to continue to follow him, but his last and only experience at the club hadn’t been the most pleasant and he had “kids” to get home to who would be wondering where he went, “No. You’re an adult, I can’t control you or make decisions for you. You do whatever the hell you want but Lee Hongbin, you better not do anything to jeopardize or hurt this team.”
His arms were crossed over his chest to combat the cold night air, stern and threatening gaze watching Hongbin as he got into the cab and drove off. Once Hakyeon had made it back home, he was immediately bombarded with a clingy maknae and questions of, “Where did you go? Where have you been? Where’s Hongbin-hyung? When is he coming home?” He shook the young kid off with a ruffle of his hair, lying to him that “he was out with friends” again before retreating to his room. He wasn’t safe there either, receiving a questioning raised brow look from his roommate which he just stuck his tongue out at before disappearing into the bathroom to shower and get ready for bed.
Stage Four.
a/n:
We just want to make you all suffer and wait in anticipation for what's going to happen. Just a little heads up~ chapter 4 will be split into two parts since we were so enthusiastic we wrote a lot. Enjoy~ - JKun
Yes, this is the actual title. - Mars