Past, Present & Future, Chapter 10
Title: Past, Present & Future
Author: trieze0713
Pairing: Yunho/Jaejoong, Yoochun/Junsu
Length: Chaptered
Genres: AU, Drama, Angst, Romance
Rating: PG
~Previous Chapters~
Chapter 10: Conspiracy
Jaejoong didn’t know what came over him that he once again had ruined his (probably only) opportunity to get back with Yunho. Whatever happened earlier that day wasn’t what he had planned all along. He fucked up. Again. Much worse than before.
He didn’t plan for his emotion to be wrecking havoc in his mind when he opened the door to the meeting room and saw the man in front of him.
He didn’t plan to bluntly ask him to return to him.
He didn’t plan to tell him that he missed him.
He didn’t plan to beg him for forgiveness.
He didn’t plan the kiss.
And he certainly didn’t plan to freak out when he felt the man’s prosthesis in his hand.
He wasn’t disgusted with it, no no no! Gosh, he might be a jerk but he’s not that narrow minded! But it’s totally different holding it alone compared with actually felt it being connected to a certain body part… it’s just- it’s hard to explain… it's like when you feel sorry for anyone who has cancer but you’re completely going nuts when it’s someone you know very well. It became personal. It became your problem. It became your own business.
Not everything was wrong for him though.
If there’s anything that he could be certain of, there was one that he had been confirmed with. Yunho still wanted him. Jung Yunho still had a feeling for him. The way he responded to the kiss and his touch… sure, there was confusion and denial when their lips first met, but in that one minute that their lips were connected, he was sure that the man wanted him just as much as he did, that’s something that his body gave away.
Still, it’s going to be a long way to get to his emotional side. He knew that the scar that he caused from leaving ran deep inside Yunho. He wouldn’t be able to penetrate the wall of protection that he had built around him. But nothing in this world is completely safe. There was one way that could get him to get through Yunho, Jung Moonbin. He didn’t feel a slightest bit of connection with the boy, but he would do anything… literally… to be with Jung Yunho. Moonbin was never part of his agenda in the future, but if that’s what it takes to achieve his goal then he’s more than willing to do whatever it takes. Even if that means to live with kid that he never wanted.
Call him obsessed, he didn’t care. He had wasted the past 15 years living a lie and denying what he really was. There’s not stopping him.
Another interesting fact that he started to see was someone that had been avoiding him all this time was actually the one who tipped him about the whereabouts of Jung Yunho. Yunho’s own step brother and the heir of Jung Inc., Shim Changmin.
He didn’t realize it sooner, but after a lot of thinking and reminiscing, he couldn’t forget the voice on the phone that told him to expect the package that contained Yunho’s pictures, those that finally led him to Moonbin and the man himself. It was the same voice that spoke coldly to him at the hospital. The more he thought about it, the surer he got. The sarcasm and coldness were not something that anyone could copy in his tone. There were bitterness and pride that only he could hear, he wouldn’t be surprised either if that guy had a closet full skeletons at home.
Before he makes his way to Jung Moonbin, he should get in touch with the shadow lingering in the dark
first.
He picked up the phone on his desk.
“Yoochun, call Jung Inc. and request a meeting with Shim Changmin at 9am tomorrow morning in my office. Tell them that Kim Jaejoong would like to meet the brother of Jung Yunho over a personal matter. Believe me, he won’t reject this time.”
He hung up and didn’t give Yoochun a second to question him. He knew what he was doing.
Shim Changmin would come, he bet on his future with Yunho. That man would surely realize by now that he’s been found out. And whatever the reasons he did what he did… Kim Jaejoong was now ready to play his game.
* * * * *
Changmin was signing on a stack of documents when his assistant told him of a meeting request from the CEO of Kim Corp. regarding the long lost Jung son. He almost smiled seeing his assistant’s bewildered look when he told her to confirm the meeting and reschedule the one that’s already on his agenda, considering his rejection many times in the past. But he saw it coming since he called his brother a few hours ago when he called to check about his meeting with Park Yoochun at Kim Corp.’s head quarter.
His brother said everything was settled and he just had to wait until Moonbin returns before the papers were finalized. He couldn’t fool him though, there must be something else happened. And it must be related to Kim Jaejoong ‘cause for a moment his brother sounded like ending the call soon when he asked him if he met Jaejoong-ssi again. He did say yes but left it there. So he just reminded him not to forget his medication, after all it’s barely a week after his angioplasty. He thanked him and promised to call later but he told him that he’ll be visiting tomorrow. Yunho agreed.
Changmin was running out of time in regards to get his brother back home to see their dying fathers. But he just wanted to hear what Kim Jaejoong had to say before he comes to see his brother later today and take him to see the old man. Tonight would be the night of revelations. He had shown his cards and had no more trumps to play. In a while, he would be back to being the old Shim Changmin, a man with no parents and wealth, he would have to start all over again but he didn’t mind. As long as his promise had been fulfilled then he would consider to be woken up from a dream.
He had planned to disappear completely and cut ties with everything that had been meaning so much for his 20 years of life with no regret. He would start a new life and Kim Junsu wasn’t part of it either. He was the one that he felt sorry the most. The man loved him like a brother, and vice versa… even willing to live a life that he didn’t want just for the sake of him. There isn’t anything that he could do to thank him enough for the sacrifice and the love that he had dedicated to him. The only thing he could do was to set him free. To set everyone free and to return them back to the lives they belong to.
“Sir, we have arrived.”
The driver’s voice brought him back to his senses as his door was opened. He nodded and got off, each step would bring him closer to an end.
“I’ll call you when I’m done.”
As he got into the lobby he could feel some people eyed him with great interest and curiosity. What’s the heir of Jung Inc. doing at the head quarter of Kim Corp.?
And soon murmurs of excitement could be heard, he chuckled as he imagined what he would be reading in the paper tomorrow, ‘A Possibility of a Cooperation Between Two Biggest Firms in Korea’.
The receptionist quickly ushered him to the private elevator that took him directly to the floor where the CEO’s office was located. Park Yoochun had been waiting for him as soon as the door was opened; apparently Jaejoong considered the meeting was important enough to have his right hand man to pick him up just to walk with him to his office a few feet down.
When he entered Jaejoong’s office, the man stood up to shake his hands and soon they were sitting face to face in guest area inside the spacious office.
“I didn’t think that you would agree to meet me right away.”
“I had no reason not to, I actually thought that it took long enough for you to make the request.”
Jaejoong snorted, “Oh, it must be, for you!” He eyed him intently, “Let’s cut to the chase, Changmin-ssi. Why did you send me the pictures and let me find your brother? After all those years of tailing you, I gotta say that you did a good job in hiding him before. Why now?”
Changmin made himself comfortable as he put one feet above the other. “Why asking? I thought you’re happy that you finally get to meet my brother? Why would it matter that I gave you the information or someone else did, as long as you see him again?”
The other man seemed to be thinking over what he was saying. “You were right… if only things were still the same like it used to. But things have changed… a lot if I may say.”
“Including my brother’s physical appearance and the existence of Jung Moonbin?”
Jaejoong looked a little taken aback by his words.
“No need to look so surprised. It’s unfortunate of you to find out about his physical state the way you did. And you’re not a fan of the boy, are you? Sadly, there’s no way that you’ll get my brother back without going through him first.”
“…”
“And what did you say to him when you guys met yesterday? Or maybe I should ask, what did you do? My brother was so out of it when I called him, he thought he was doing a good job in making his voice to sound as normal as possible. He forgot that I worshipped him since I was three to the point that I could guess what was on his mind in through the hitch of his breath.”
Jaejoong took his time before he asked him, “What are you proposing?”
“The way to make Yunho yours again.”
“Why?’
“Why again?” He looked straight in his eyes. “As much as I want to deny it, you’re the only who can make him happy besides Moonbin.”
“And what about you?”
“He won’t miss me.”
“Then how?”
“I told you that Moonbin is the only way to get to my brother. That kid has dreams and you have made one of it come true… I believe that by now my brother must’ve contacted Yoochun-ssi to confirm his agreement for his scholarship. But the boy had bigger dreams. And can help him to achieve it. Tell me one thing though, are you willing to do anything… anything at all to get what you want?”
“You won’t be here if you think I don’t, would you?” he challenged him.
He chuckled, “You’re really worth your title. And one more thing, it might take a year or two, are you willing to wait that long? I can assure you that when it’s the time you’ll have him by your side on his own will. Can you wait that long?”
“I’ve been waiting for fu****g 15 years… If what you said is true then 2 years are nothing.”
“Great… then I think we have a deal.” He grinned at him.
“Can I ask you something?”
“Why not… I’ve asked you a lot of things, it’s only fair that you do the same.”
“I thought you love your brother… you worshipped him, that’s what you said to me just a minute ago. I thought you love your nep- err, Jung Moonbin too? But why are you doing all this?”
“Still the same question? Didn’t believe what I tell you? Let’s just say that I believe in true love… I’m not gonna say more than that.”
“True… love? Between whom? Yunho and I?” he asked him skeptically.
“I told you… I’m not going to say more. Believe what you want to believe. And I believe what I believed.”
Then there were silence… Jaejoong seemed lost in his own thoughts while Changmin was just sitting there waiting for what he was going to say.
“Tell me what should I do…” Gone were the confidence and the authoritative tone in Jaejoong’s voice, replaced by a look of plea, desperation in his look.
“My pleasure…”
They were so absorbed in their talk of conspiracy until Changmin’s mobile started to vibrate.
He frowned, everyone knew that he hates to be interrupted in the middle of a meeting. And he had made himself clear to his assistant that it’s a meeting of high importance. Unless… he glanced at the screen, it was Min Sook who called him… and it could only relate to one thing.
“Excuse me while I take my call.” The other man nodded his approval as he stood up and went outside to take the call.
Two minutes later he was back inside the room, all smiles.
“Well, looks like fate is on your side Jaejoong-ssi. I’m sorry to cut short our meeting today, but I’m certain that you have everything that you need to know. The rest is up to you on how to execute it. But I’m going to have to leave right now.”
“Oh… ok.” He stood up to take him to the door.
“I can find my way down… you don’t have to waste your time. I have to tell you though that you won’t hear from me again, this would be our first and last meeting.”
“What? That’s impos-“
“Everything is possible, Jaejoong-ssi, you should’ve learned that well by now.”
“…”
“I wish you luck. As long as you keep your promise then I won’t get in the way.”
“I… I promise.”
“That’s good to hear.” And the elevator was opened with a ding. He stepped in and managed to tell him one last time, “You’ll love tomorrow’s headline.” And the door was closed, leaving Kim Jaejoong in disbelief over what they have discussed and agreed upon.
His car had waited at the lobby, as soon as he got in he gave a direction to the driver and made a call that would change his life.
“Hyung, get ready. I’m on my way to pick you up. Wear your suit, I’ll explain later.”
He closed his eyes after he ended the call. It’s going to be over sooner than he expected.
It’s a good thing that he has packed and ready to leave.
In a few hours, he will be free.
And at the same time… he will lose half of his life.
He smiled to himself… an eye for an eye… what he lost will be a gain for the ones that he loved most…
Nothing is more perfect than that.
* * * * *
His brother’s call was a puzzle. He had no idea where he was going to take him. He did promise to visit today but he didn’t say anything about going anywhere. And it’s almost 2pm, not a good idea to be leaving the house when Moonbin would be home anytime. He already felt bad for leaving the store to Jihye so many times lately. Maybe he should consider hiring another employee?
He had called Park Yoochun this morning to confirm Moonbin’s agreement for the scholarship package. He was so excited about it last night that he didn’t stop beaming all through dinner and after… he even smiled in his sleep! Yunho was glad that he made the right decision. Seeing the happiness in his son’s face was more than any parent could ask for.
And his son’s happiness erased the memory of Kim Jaejoong’s face when he saw him the morning before. The funny thing was, though what had happened hurt him beyond his imagination, he was also freed from the feeling of yearning for Jaejoong’s presence in his life. The fear in his eyes and the rejection were like a confirmation that he should get over him and go on with his life. Somehow he felt at peace. He accepted reality. He would grow old watching his son growing up, maybe got married and have kids… and he hoped to see his brother finds his happiness too… Then he could also be happy when they’re happy.
He sensed urgency when his brother called him back, telling him to wait outside for him, he would arrive any moment.
He found Jihye in the counter, “Jihye, I’m sorry to keep leaving you to tend the store. But Changmin’s coming to pick me up a in a minute. I really appreciate your help.”
“No problem, Oppa. Just let me know later if you’re returning late.”
“I’ll call, but hopefully it won’t be long. Please make sure that Binnie eats his lunch before he helps you in here, okay?”
“Got it. You better bring extra medicines too, Oppa. Just in case you’re not coming back before dinner.”
“I have.” He patted his pocket. “Thanks for the reminder.” A honk was heard outside. “Ah, Min just got here. Bye Jihye, thanks for helping again.” He waved at her.
As he got inside the car, he asked his brother, “So where are we going Min? Why should I wear my suit? Is it an important place or are we meeting an important person?”
Changmin kept looking out the window as he replied, “You’ll find out soon. It’s an important place and an important person. You guessed correctly.”
They didn’t say anything anymore along the way. After 30 minutes Yunho got familiar with the streets and the surroundings.
“Min… are you taking me where you I think you’re taking me?”
“And where do you think I’m taking you right now?”
“Stop joking with me!”
“I’m not joking with you.” He calmly replied.
“Turn back right now, take me home! I’m not going there! Min, I’m not joking!”
“And I told you I’m not joking either!” He looked at him with a serious face. “It’s your home too Hyung. And it’s your last chance to see your father while he’s still alive.”
Yunho began to wonder if his live was all about surprises. It’s like someone’s playing April Fools with him all year round.
“What the hell are you saying Min? What happened to Appa?”
He turned his gaze to his lap, not daring to look into his brother’s eyes.
“Lung cancer. There’s nothing else that can be done to cure him. He’s been on ventilator for the past few months.”
Yunho could only stare at his brother, lost for words.
“You’re the one that he wanted to see before he parts with this world. I’m sure you can do that much for him. You’re his only son, after all.” There’s loneliness in the way that Changmin spoke that he didn’t know what to say to reply to him. So he kept his silence as the vehicle went further and entering a place that he used to know so well.
He still couldn’t believe that he was finally back in this place after so long…
And as he stepped out of the car, he couldn’t help to whisper softly like he used to do back when he was still in school, “I’m home.”
* * * * *
Chapter 11
Author: trieze0713
Pairing: Yunho/Jaejoong, Yoochun/Junsu
Length: Chaptered
Genres: AU, Drama, Angst, Romance
Rating: PG
~Previous Chapters~
Chapter 10: Conspiracy
Jaejoong didn’t know what came over him that he once again had ruined his (probably only) opportunity to get back with Yunho. Whatever happened earlier that day wasn’t what he had planned all along. He fucked up. Again. Much worse than before.
He didn’t plan for his emotion to be wrecking havoc in his mind when he opened the door to the meeting room and saw the man in front of him.
He didn’t plan to bluntly ask him to return to him.
He didn’t plan to tell him that he missed him.
He didn’t plan to beg him for forgiveness.
He didn’t plan the kiss.
And he certainly didn’t plan to freak out when he felt the man’s prosthesis in his hand.
He wasn’t disgusted with it, no no no! Gosh, he might be a jerk but he’s not that narrow minded! But it’s totally different holding it alone compared with actually felt it being connected to a certain body part… it’s just- it’s hard to explain… it's like when you feel sorry for anyone who has cancer but you’re completely going nuts when it’s someone you know very well. It became personal. It became your problem. It became your own business.
Not everything was wrong for him though.
If there’s anything that he could be certain of, there was one that he had been confirmed with. Yunho still wanted him. Jung Yunho still had a feeling for him. The way he responded to the kiss and his touch… sure, there was confusion and denial when their lips first met, but in that one minute that their lips were connected, he was sure that the man wanted him just as much as he did, that’s something that his body gave away.
Still, it’s going to be a long way to get to his emotional side. He knew that the scar that he caused from leaving ran deep inside Yunho. He wouldn’t be able to penetrate the wall of protection that he had built around him. But nothing in this world is completely safe. There was one way that could get him to get through Yunho, Jung Moonbin. He didn’t feel a slightest bit of connection with the boy, but he would do anything… literally… to be with Jung Yunho. Moonbin was never part of his agenda in the future, but if that’s what it takes to achieve his goal then he’s more than willing to do whatever it takes. Even if that means to live with kid that he never wanted.
Call him obsessed, he didn’t care. He had wasted the past 15 years living a lie and denying what he really was. There’s not stopping him.
Another interesting fact that he started to see was someone that had been avoiding him all this time was actually the one who tipped him about the whereabouts of Jung Yunho. Yunho’s own step brother and the heir of Jung Inc., Shim Changmin.
He didn’t realize it sooner, but after a lot of thinking and reminiscing, he couldn’t forget the voice on the phone that told him to expect the package that contained Yunho’s pictures, those that finally led him to Moonbin and the man himself. It was the same voice that spoke coldly to him at the hospital. The more he thought about it, the surer he got. The sarcasm and coldness were not something that anyone could copy in his tone. There were bitterness and pride that only he could hear, he wouldn’t be surprised either if that guy had a closet full skeletons at home.
Before he makes his way to Jung Moonbin, he should get in touch with the shadow lingering in the dark
first.
He picked up the phone on his desk.
“Yoochun, call Jung Inc. and request a meeting with Shim Changmin at 9am tomorrow morning in my office. Tell them that Kim Jaejoong would like to meet the brother of Jung Yunho over a personal matter. Believe me, he won’t reject this time.”
He hung up and didn’t give Yoochun a second to question him. He knew what he was doing.
Shim Changmin would come, he bet on his future with Yunho. That man would surely realize by now that he’s been found out. And whatever the reasons he did what he did… Kim Jaejoong was now ready to play his game.
* * * * *
Changmin was signing on a stack of documents when his assistant told him of a meeting request from the CEO of Kim Corp. regarding the long lost Jung son. He almost smiled seeing his assistant’s bewildered look when he told her to confirm the meeting and reschedule the one that’s already on his agenda, considering his rejection many times in the past. But he saw it coming since he called his brother a few hours ago when he called to check about his meeting with Park Yoochun at Kim Corp.’s head quarter.
His brother said everything was settled and he just had to wait until Moonbin returns before the papers were finalized. He couldn’t fool him though, there must be something else happened. And it must be related to Kim Jaejoong ‘cause for a moment his brother sounded like ending the call soon when he asked him if he met Jaejoong-ssi again. He did say yes but left it there. So he just reminded him not to forget his medication, after all it’s barely a week after his angioplasty. He thanked him and promised to call later but he told him that he’ll be visiting tomorrow. Yunho agreed.
Changmin was running out of time in regards to get his brother back home to see their dying fathers. But he just wanted to hear what Kim Jaejoong had to say before he comes to see his brother later today and take him to see the old man. Tonight would be the night of revelations. He had shown his cards and had no more trumps to play. In a while, he would be back to being the old Shim Changmin, a man with no parents and wealth, he would have to start all over again but he didn’t mind. As long as his promise had been fulfilled then he would consider to be woken up from a dream.
He had planned to disappear completely and cut ties with everything that had been meaning so much for his 20 years of life with no regret. He would start a new life and Kim Junsu wasn’t part of it either. He was the one that he felt sorry the most. The man loved him like a brother, and vice versa… even willing to live a life that he didn’t want just for the sake of him. There isn’t anything that he could do to thank him enough for the sacrifice and the love that he had dedicated to him. The only thing he could do was to set him free. To set everyone free and to return them back to the lives they belong to.
“Sir, we have arrived.”
The driver’s voice brought him back to his senses as his door was opened. He nodded and got off, each step would bring him closer to an end.
“I’ll call you when I’m done.”
As he got into the lobby he could feel some people eyed him with great interest and curiosity. What’s the heir of Jung Inc. doing at the head quarter of Kim Corp.?
And soon murmurs of excitement could be heard, he chuckled as he imagined what he would be reading in the paper tomorrow, ‘A Possibility of a Cooperation Between Two Biggest Firms in Korea’.
The receptionist quickly ushered him to the private elevator that took him directly to the floor where the CEO’s office was located. Park Yoochun had been waiting for him as soon as the door was opened; apparently Jaejoong considered the meeting was important enough to have his right hand man to pick him up just to walk with him to his office a few feet down.
When he entered Jaejoong’s office, the man stood up to shake his hands and soon they were sitting face to face in guest area inside the spacious office.
“I didn’t think that you would agree to meet me right away.”
“I had no reason not to, I actually thought that it took long enough for you to make the request.”
Jaejoong snorted, “Oh, it must be, for you!” He eyed him intently, “Let’s cut to the chase, Changmin-ssi. Why did you send me the pictures and let me find your brother? After all those years of tailing you, I gotta say that you did a good job in hiding him before. Why now?”
Changmin made himself comfortable as he put one feet above the other. “Why asking? I thought you’re happy that you finally get to meet my brother? Why would it matter that I gave you the information or someone else did, as long as you see him again?”
The other man seemed to be thinking over what he was saying. “You were right… if only things were still the same like it used to. But things have changed… a lot if I may say.”
“Including my brother’s physical appearance and the existence of Jung Moonbin?”
Jaejoong looked a little taken aback by his words.
“No need to look so surprised. It’s unfortunate of you to find out about his physical state the way you did. And you’re not a fan of the boy, are you? Sadly, there’s no way that you’ll get my brother back without going through him first.”
“…”
“And what did you say to him when you guys met yesterday? Or maybe I should ask, what did you do? My brother was so out of it when I called him, he thought he was doing a good job in making his voice to sound as normal as possible. He forgot that I worshipped him since I was three to the point that I could guess what was on his mind in through the hitch of his breath.”
Jaejoong took his time before he asked him, “What are you proposing?”
“The way to make Yunho yours again.”
“Why?’
“Why again?” He looked straight in his eyes. “As much as I want to deny it, you’re the only who can make him happy besides Moonbin.”
“And what about you?”
“He won’t miss me.”
“Then how?”
“I told you that Moonbin is the only way to get to my brother. That kid has dreams and you have made one of it come true… I believe that by now my brother must’ve contacted Yoochun-ssi to confirm his agreement for his scholarship. But the boy had bigger dreams. And can help him to achieve it. Tell me one thing though, are you willing to do anything… anything at all to get what you want?”
“You won’t be here if you think I don’t, would you?” he challenged him.
He chuckled, “You’re really worth your title. And one more thing, it might take a year or two, are you willing to wait that long? I can assure you that when it’s the time you’ll have him by your side on his own will. Can you wait that long?”
“I’ve been waiting for fu****g 15 years… If what you said is true then 2 years are nothing.”
“Great… then I think we have a deal.” He grinned at him.
“Can I ask you something?”
“Why not… I’ve asked you a lot of things, it’s only fair that you do the same.”
“I thought you love your brother… you worshipped him, that’s what you said to me just a minute ago. I thought you love your nep- err, Jung Moonbin too? But why are you doing all this?”
“Still the same question? Didn’t believe what I tell you? Let’s just say that I believe in true love… I’m not gonna say more than that.”
“True… love? Between whom? Yunho and I?” he asked him skeptically.
“I told you… I’m not going to say more. Believe what you want to believe. And I believe what I believed.”
Then there were silence… Jaejoong seemed lost in his own thoughts while Changmin was just sitting there waiting for what he was going to say.
“Tell me what should I do…” Gone were the confidence and the authoritative tone in Jaejoong’s voice, replaced by a look of plea, desperation in his look.
“My pleasure…”
They were so absorbed in their talk of conspiracy until Changmin’s mobile started to vibrate.
He frowned, everyone knew that he hates to be interrupted in the middle of a meeting. And he had made himself clear to his assistant that it’s a meeting of high importance. Unless… he glanced at the screen, it was Min Sook who called him… and it could only relate to one thing.
“Excuse me while I take my call.” The other man nodded his approval as he stood up and went outside to take the call.
Two minutes later he was back inside the room, all smiles.
“Well, looks like fate is on your side Jaejoong-ssi. I’m sorry to cut short our meeting today, but I’m certain that you have everything that you need to know. The rest is up to you on how to execute it. But I’m going to have to leave right now.”
“Oh… ok.” He stood up to take him to the door.
“I can find my way down… you don’t have to waste your time. I have to tell you though that you won’t hear from me again, this would be our first and last meeting.”
“What? That’s impos-“
“Everything is possible, Jaejoong-ssi, you should’ve learned that well by now.”
“…”
“I wish you luck. As long as you keep your promise then I won’t get in the way.”
“I… I promise.”
“That’s good to hear.” And the elevator was opened with a ding. He stepped in and managed to tell him one last time, “You’ll love tomorrow’s headline.” And the door was closed, leaving Kim Jaejoong in disbelief over what they have discussed and agreed upon.
His car had waited at the lobby, as soon as he got in he gave a direction to the driver and made a call that would change his life.
“Hyung, get ready. I’m on my way to pick you up. Wear your suit, I’ll explain later.”
He closed his eyes after he ended the call. It’s going to be over sooner than he expected.
It’s a good thing that he has packed and ready to leave.
In a few hours, he will be free.
And at the same time… he will lose half of his life.
He smiled to himself… an eye for an eye… what he lost will be a gain for the ones that he loved most…
Nothing is more perfect than that.
* * * * *
His brother’s call was a puzzle. He had no idea where he was going to take him. He did promise to visit today but he didn’t say anything about going anywhere. And it’s almost 2pm, not a good idea to be leaving the house when Moonbin would be home anytime. He already felt bad for leaving the store to Jihye so many times lately. Maybe he should consider hiring another employee?
He had called Park Yoochun this morning to confirm Moonbin’s agreement for the scholarship package. He was so excited about it last night that he didn’t stop beaming all through dinner and after… he even smiled in his sleep! Yunho was glad that he made the right decision. Seeing the happiness in his son’s face was more than any parent could ask for.
And his son’s happiness erased the memory of Kim Jaejoong’s face when he saw him the morning before. The funny thing was, though what had happened hurt him beyond his imagination, he was also freed from the feeling of yearning for Jaejoong’s presence in his life. The fear in his eyes and the rejection were like a confirmation that he should get over him and go on with his life. Somehow he felt at peace. He accepted reality. He would grow old watching his son growing up, maybe got married and have kids… and he hoped to see his brother finds his happiness too… Then he could also be happy when they’re happy.
He sensed urgency when his brother called him back, telling him to wait outside for him, he would arrive any moment.
He found Jihye in the counter, “Jihye, I’m sorry to keep leaving you to tend the store. But Changmin’s coming to pick me up a in a minute. I really appreciate your help.”
“No problem, Oppa. Just let me know later if you’re returning late.”
“I’ll call, but hopefully it won’t be long. Please make sure that Binnie eats his lunch before he helps you in here, okay?”
“Got it. You better bring extra medicines too, Oppa. Just in case you’re not coming back before dinner.”
“I have.” He patted his pocket. “Thanks for the reminder.” A honk was heard outside. “Ah, Min just got here. Bye Jihye, thanks for helping again.” He waved at her.
As he got inside the car, he asked his brother, “So where are we going Min? Why should I wear my suit? Is it an important place or are we meeting an important person?”
Changmin kept looking out the window as he replied, “You’ll find out soon. It’s an important place and an important person. You guessed correctly.”
They didn’t say anything anymore along the way. After 30 minutes Yunho got familiar with the streets and the surroundings.
“Min… are you taking me where you I think you’re taking me?”
“And where do you think I’m taking you right now?”
“Stop joking with me!”
“I’m not joking with you.” He calmly replied.
“Turn back right now, take me home! I’m not going there! Min, I’m not joking!”
“And I told you I’m not joking either!” He looked at him with a serious face. “It’s your home too Hyung. And it’s your last chance to see your father while he’s still alive.”
Yunho began to wonder if his live was all about surprises. It’s like someone’s playing April Fools with him all year round.
“What the hell are you saying Min? What happened to Appa?”
He turned his gaze to his lap, not daring to look into his brother’s eyes.
“Lung cancer. There’s nothing else that can be done to cure him. He’s been on ventilator for the past few months.”
Yunho could only stare at his brother, lost for words.
“You’re the one that he wanted to see before he parts with this world. I’m sure you can do that much for him. You’re his only son, after all.” There’s loneliness in the way that Changmin spoke that he didn’t know what to say to reply to him. So he kept his silence as the vehicle went further and entering a place that he used to know so well.
He still couldn’t believe that he was finally back in this place after so long…
And as he stepped out of the car, he couldn’t help to whisper softly like he used to do back when he was still in school, “I’m home.”
* * * * *
Chapter 11