Unlock - Chapter Twenty Six
Title: Unlock
Authors: renichifreak and yeonah
Chapter: 26/?
Fandom: SS501
Pairings: KyuSaeng, HyunMin (may be other pairings in the future)
Rating: PG-16
Warning: Angst, AU, Fluff
Summary: Not everything is as it seems, and for those who are as far from normal as you can get, life is a bleak existence. The only ones who can truly understand what these individuals go through are those...just like them.
A/N: YoungSaeng and HyunJoong are played by renichifreak and KyuJong and JungMin are played by me. Updates will be every second Wednesday <3
YoungSaeng led the way out, making sure to lock the door when everyone was out. The three talked all the way outside, where they met up with the others, who had also just left the building.
JungMin instantly transferred from pestering YoungSaeng to pestering HyunJoong instead, poking at him repeatedly. KyuJong chuckled as he wrapped his arms around his boyfriend and they all walked to the bus stop, where a few other groups of students were waiting.
Once they arrived at the bus stop, HyunJoong released a loud sigh, finally giving in to JungMin's incessant badgering. "I said I'd tell them and I will. Just relax, you pest!" he yelled, though it was obvious that he wasn't mad or annoyed; more amused than anything else.
"Tell us what?" Nicole asked, curious.
The redhead jumped at the yell, blinking for a moment before he snapped out of stunned-deer mode and started flailing again. "His swimming meet yesterday! It was amazing! He's like a, a fish or something, though a really hot fish in that suit, and I didn't even know someone could swim that fast, or that well, you should have seen it!" he babbled, unable to stop as he bounced.
HyunJoong reached up and covered JungMin's mouth, effectively shutting him up. The blush that seemed to pop onto his face whenever the redhead would comment on his looks made an appearance.
"Calm down, JungMin," HyunJoong chuckled. Letting the hand fall from JungMin's mouth, he shook out the tingle in his fingers and reached into his bag with his other hand, pulling out the gold medal.
HyungJoon's eyes widened and he stared, mouth open. "You got gold?!"
"Congratulations!" Nicole exclaimed, hugging him. KyuJong smiled widely, hugging YoungSaeng close. "That's great, HyunJoong! Wish we could have seen."
"It was fantastic!" JungMin chirped, and immediately launched into a full-out commentary of every single second of the meet.
YoungSaeng had to smile at how enthusiastic JungMin was. He was aware that the younger boy rarely went out before he was committed to the hospital, so he had to have had the time of his life.
The redhead only shut up when the bus pulled up to the stop, the group lining up to get on. KyuJong went to the back where they'd been last time, getting out of the way so YoungSaeng could take the window seat. JungMin looked around, seeming at a loss for where he was supposed to go.
"We kind of take over the back of the bus, Min, so take a seat anywhere," YoungSaeng explained before seeing KyuJong move to let him into the window seat. He moved to sit before pausing.
Taking a deep breath, he nudged KyuJong inside. He'd give it a shot, and knew that if he felt discomfort, KyuJong would switch with him in an instant.
KyuJong looked at YoungSaeng in surprise as he was nudged into the bench first. After a moment he smiled gently and took the window seat, settling so that he could take YoungSaeng into his arms the moment they were all settled. His heart swelled with pride in every single step forward YoungSaeng took.
JungMin shuffled uncertainly for a moment before sitting down in a bench on a diagonal from theirs, curling up next to the window. Now that they were actually on the bus, he was rather quiet.
Noticing the uncharacteristic silence, HyunJoong got up from where he'd been sitting beside HyungJoon and dropped into the seat beside JungMin. Smiling, he dangled the medal in front of the redhead. "Wanna hold it? It's heavier than I would have thought."
Blinking at the flash of gold in front of his face, JungMin smiled after a moment and held out gloved hands to take it, and was surprised at the weight. "Woah. No wonder you don't wear it around your neck for long." He looked down at it in his hands for a moment before grinning and handing it back.
Taking it back and placing it back into his bag, HyunJoong looked at JungMin a bit closer. "Something wrong?" he asked.
Shrugging, JungMin shifted a little further down into the seat. "It's nothing." He looked out the window as the bus pulled away from the stop and back onto the street. "I think the last time I did anything even remotely like this was a class field trip when I was ten." For all his excitement, he didn't seem quite so certain about what he was doing anymore.
"Well basically, we're just going to spend the vacation at Kyu's place. His parents are amazing and so is his little sister." HyunJoong paused to snicker. "Though her taste in guys could use a little work if the crush she has on Joonie is anything to go by."
JungMin's lips quirked upwards at that. “Really? She has a crush on him?" he glanced over at HyungJoon, then back to the older man. "Tell me what it's like there."
"Peaceful," HyunJoong answered immediately. "If you couldn't tell by the accent, he's a country boy through and through. Lots of open space and the kind of family that everyone wishes to have..."
"And his mother is the greatest cook alive, " YoungSaeng chimed in, having overheard.
JungMin laughed. "Is that where the forklift idea came from?" he asked, looking at HyungJoon who flushed.
"It's really good, okay?" the youngest mumbled, slinking down further in his seat and sulking.
The redhead grinned, seeming to relax a little. "Does he have a farm?"
"There's a small barn in the back," KyuJong chuckled, wrapping his arms around YoungSaeng.
"You attached yourself to the staircase and asked to be adopted..." YoungSaeng reminded HyungJoon with a laugh, turning sideways in the seat and leaning back against KyuJong.
HyungJoon pouted at him, and mock-glared at JungMin when the redhead snickered. "You'll be doing the same, I swear it."
JungMin smirked. "I might do crazy things, but I think I'll be leaving the stair-clinging to you." He laughed at the face HyungJoon made.
"All kidding aside though, Minnie yah, you'll love it there. His parents are the nicest people I think I've ever met, and his sister is adorable," YoungSaeng told him, understanding his nervousness better than anyone.
The redhead grinned at his friend. "They sound great." He looked out the window, noticing they were leaving the city. He pressed one gloved hand to the glass, watching the buildings and houses fall away.
"It's going to be a long trip," KyuJong said, making himself comfortable in the corner of the seat and settling YoungSaeng against him.
Settling in himself, YoungSaeng let out a small yawn, relaxing against his lover. It didn't take very long for him to fall asleep after that.
Seeing YoungSaeng asleep, Nicole brightened and dug for her camera before pulling it out and snapping a few pictures.
KyuJong smiled at Nicole before he rested his head against YoungSaeng's and closed his eyes, drifting off.
The trip to his town was peaceful, with small patches of conversation here and there. JungMin asked HyunJoong questions sometimes, but other times would just watch outside the window in silence.
KyuJong woke up when he felt HaRa nudging him. Opening his eyes, he looked up at her to see her hanging over the seat in front and smiling. "We're just about there."
Nodding with a smile in return, KyuJong kissed YoungSaeng's temple, whispering in his ear.
YoungSaeng woke to the light kiss and looked around before settling on KyuJong, smiling. "Are we there?" he asked, stretching.
"Just about," KyuJong smiled, cupping his face lightly and brushing his bangs out of his eyes. "We're getting ready."
JungMin looked over at them with a smile, shuffling around in the seat and wincing at his cramped legs from sitting curled up for too long.
Seeing his friend's discomfort, YoungSaeng chuckled. "We have to walk for a bit, so it'll give you a chance to stretch your legs out," he explained.
"Sounds great to me." JungMin reached down and pulled his bag up off the floor as the bus slowly eased to a stop at the edge of the town. The group got to their feet, KyuJong grabbing his bag and slinging it over his shoulder as he stood.
Once they were off the bus, YoungSaeng smiled brightly at being back. He looked around before stretching out as much as he could. "God, I missed this place," he stated with a smile.
"We actually weren't here all that long ago," KyuJong chuckled, though he knew what YoungSaeng meant. Taking his boyfriend's hand, he swung it absently as the others got off the bus and the bus drove away. JungMin was looking around in circles, taking in the wide fields and the houses further down the road.
"I still missed the calm..." YoungSaeng pouted.
HyunJoong laughed at JungMin's excitement. "Nice, huh?" he asked with a smile.
"It's very different," JungMin said, looking back at him with a grin before returning his gaze to the fields.
"I missed it too." KyuJong squeezed YoungSaeng's hand before starting to walk. "Come on, they're waiting for us." The others followed along behind them.
The walk to KyuJong's house took no time at all given the very lively conversation and JungMin running wide circles around them.
YoungSaeng was quiet as he took in the calm that he so rarely got to feel while living in the city, eyes closed and small smile on his face, trusting KyuJong to lead him.
As they approached the house, KyuJong laughed quietly and nudged YoungSaeng. "Someone's waiting for us."
EunAh was sitting on the front porch steps. When she saw the group approaching her face lit up and she bounced to her feet, opening the front door to yell into the house before running to the end of the driveway to greet them. "Oppas and unnies~!"
HaRa and Nicole squealed and ran ahead to greet the girl, cuddling her and gossiping the second they reached her.
HyunJoong laughed at them before turning to the others. "I think they've adopted her..."
"Who's adopted who?" KyuJong chuckled, watching his sister all but bounce in excitement.
His mother came to the door as they walked up the driveway. "How was the trip?" she asked, smiling at them. "Dinner is just about ready."
YoungSaeng brightened at seeing the woman when they entered the house. "It was entirely uneventful," YoungSaeng replied. "Oh, and this is a friend of mine, JungMin."
JungMin waved a little nervously. "Hi."
She smiled at him in reply. "Nice to meet you JungMin. Why don't you all come inside? It's getting cold out." She left the door open for them to come in.
"Appa won't be in for dinner, he's out working, but he'll be home later," EunAh said, pulling HaRa and Nicole towards the door.
Slipping his shoes off and placing his bag out of the way, YoungSaeng followed the woman inside. "How have you been?" he asked her.
"I've been well, rather missed you both. The house has been too empty," she smiled at him. "And yourself? How is school? Is my son treating you all right?"
"School's going as well as it can, and I've never been treated better in my life," YoungSaeng replied happily.
"That's good," she smiled at them. "I prepared some of your favorites for dinner, they should be ready in a few minutes. Perhaps you can keep your friend from passing out of hunger before then?" she laughed, motioning at HyungJoon who had just about keeled over from the enticing smell of food inside.
YoungSaeng smiled at the woman's gesture. "Thank you. Your cooking is awesome." Pausing at her question, he laughed. "And he's pretty much a lost cause at this point."
"Just let him know he won't be able to eat anything if he knocks himself unconscious, that should do the trick," the woman laughed before heading into the kitchen to finish up dinner.
"Where are we staying?" HaRa asked, looking at them.
"You and Nicole unnie can stay with me in my room, it's big enough," EunAh piped up. "Kyu and YoungSaeng oppadeul have his room, and there's a guest bedroom that should be okay for HyunJoong, HyungJoon and JungMin oppadeul."
HyunJoong snickered. "You said you have a barn, right? Just stick Joonie in there with the other animals. He should be fine."
"It's a little cold for that," EunAh giggled, though she turned a little pink when she glanced at HyungJoon then away. KyuJong chuckled in amusement, resting his chin on YoungSaeng's shoulder from behind and wrapping his arms around his lover's waist. JungMin wasn't even paying attention to the conversation, trying to look at everything without touching anything.
YoungSaeng smiled at EunAh when he saw the blush, leaning back into the embrace.
"JungMin, I doubt they'd mind if you touched something. You aren't in a museum," HyunJoong chuckled.
Watching the others, KyuJong expected JungMin to take the invitation and start poking around, but the younger boy just shook his head and kept his hands clasped behind his back to remove temptation as he looked around, standing up on his toes to peer at a picture on the wall.
"Maybe you guys should bring your bags upstairs," EunAh suggested, already going to climb up the stairs.
"Sounds good," Nicole stated, picking her bag back up and following after EunAh, the others behind her.
As they headed upstairs, EunAh showed them where the guest room was, as well as the bathroom. KyuJong squeezed YoungSaeng's hand and led him to his own room, opening the door and stepping inside. It felt nice to be back home, even better with his friends and lover.
Once in KyuJong's room, YoungSaeng walked over to the bed and plopped down before falling back with a happy sigh. "I love your room, Kyu yah..."
"It's nice," KyuJong said, but his attention was on YoungSaeng as he sat down next to him and looked back at the younger boy. He laughed at hearing loud exclamations down the hallway. "I don't think the house will be as quiet as last time though."
"Nothing is very quiet with JungMin around, but I'm glad he's here," YoungSaeng said, lifting a hand and running his fingers up and down KyuJong's spine lightly. "It's very hard adjusting once you've been in a place like the hospital for as long as we were in there."
"I noticed." KyuJong shivered at the touch to his spine, arching his back slightly before twisting his upper body around so he could cup YoungSaeng's cheek. "Who was in there first, between you both?"
"I'm pretty sure it was me. The first few months there were a blur of bed rest and medication to control the breakdowns, but I'm pretty sure he showed up about five or six months after me," YoungSaeng explained, placing one hand beneath his head and wrapping the other around KyuJong's neck, lightly caressing the skin there.
Leaning down, KyuJong kissed YoungSaeng's lips lightly. "Did you ever talk about why you were in there with him?" he murmured, curious. "The real reason." They seemed very close.
YoungSaeng shook his head. "I could barely think about it without feeling like I'd relapse, so I kept quiet. And JungMin wasn't kidding before. I seriously never spoke. I used to carry around a notebook with me so that if I wanted something, I'd write it out," he explained.
Nodding in understanding, KyuJong smiled gently and pressed his lips lovingly to YoungSaeng's forehead. "I'm glad things are different now. You have no idea how proud I am of you."
"Dinner!" EunAh called, and they heard her running down the stairs.
"It feels so odd hearing someone say that to me," YoungSaeng smiled, moving to kiss KyuJong softly.
Hearing EunAh's declaration and HyungJoon practically break the sound barrier, YoungSaeng smiled and slowly sat up.
Laughing quietly, KyuJong caressed YoungSaeng's cheek lightly. "It's true, and I'll keep saying it," he murmured, kissing his lover back gently before he got to his feet, pulling YoungSaeng up slowly. "Let's get downstairs before HyungJoon eats everything." He heard the others going downstairs as well, at a more reasonable pace than the youngest.
"I'd rather stay here, but I love your mom's cooking too much..." YoungSaeng replied as he was pulled to his feet. Leaning forward, he pressed his lips to KyuJong's more firmly before parting slowly. "After you?"
Closing his eyes for a moment at the kiss, KyuJong opened them again as YoungSaeng pulled back, smiling as he nodded. Holding on to YoungSaeng's hand, he turned to walk out of the room and down the stairs.
His mother was finishing placing dishes on the table with EunAh's help, the others already settled into chairs and leaving two empty ones together for the couple.
Grinning at the group, YoungSaeng took a seat beside JungMin. "Everything smells and looks amazing," he commented, laughing at the round of agreement.
"Glad you approve," KyuJong's mother smiled as she took a seat and they started to eat. As expected, HyungJoon piled as much on his plate as he could. JungMin tried what was closest to him, eyes lighting up at the taste. EunAh was happily gossiping with Nicole and HaRa at the other end of the table.
While he ate less than everyone else and at a much slower pace, YoungSaeng practically melted at the delicious taste of everything. It didn't take much before he felt full, but he continued to eat just a bit more, knowing that he needed to. He was sure that he could regain a normal appetite if he was able to eat food as good as KyuJong's mother's.
KyuJong watched YoungSaeng out of the corner of his eyes, smiling as he watched the expression on his boyfriend's face.
"Hey oppa," EunAh piped up when she looked up from her conversation, blinking. KyuJong looked back at her. "Hm?"
"Why is YoungSaeng oppa wearing the sweater umma got you last year?"
Blinking, KyuJong turned red as there were a fresh round of squeals from HaRa and Nicole.
YoungSaeng reddened at the comment, but couldn't help but smile as he turned to the girl. "Because it looks so much better on me, EunAh yah," YoungSaeng replied teasingly, lightly nudging KyuJong.
"I have to agree with that," KyuJong chuckled, still red as he slipped one arm around YoungSaeng's waist. JungMin snickered on his lover's other side, obviously holding his tongue before he could blurt out things.
HyungJoon, however, had no such qualms. "Are you already to the exchanging clothes stage? " He wiped fake tears from his eyes. "They grow up so fast..."
"No more food for him, umma," KyuJong said, hiding his face against YoungSaeng's shoulder. If only they knew that they had moved past that...
"Leave them alone," HaRa laughed, poking HyungJoon.
"Thank you, Hara," YoungSaeng stated just before the whining began. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed JungMin practically twitching to speak and, assuming what he wanted to say, promptly kicked him in the shin, albeit lighter than he could have.
JungMin jumped and glanced at them, then grinned widely and went back to his food, occupying himself that way to avoid saying anything.
KyuJong put his chopsticks down once he was done, sitting back with a sigh. He couldn't eat another bite. Settling against YoungSaeng, he listened to the others talk with a small smile, sleepiness starting to sneak up on him.
YoungSaeng looked over at KyuJong before smiling softly. "Would it be okay if we headed upstairs now? It's late and we're both pretty tired," YoungSaeng asked, running a hand lightly over KyuJong's arm.
"Of course sweetie," KyuJong's mom smiled at them. "Get a good night's rest."
"Thanks for dinner, umma." KyuJong stood up, helping YoungSaeng to his feet as well.
"Sleep well~" JungMin snickered as they walked by, and KyuJong poked him hard in the side.
HyunJoong watched the two head up before turning to JungMin, eyes bright with curiosity. "What am I missing?" he asked quietly, making sure the others were distracted and couldn't hear.
"Oh, nothing." JungMin replied innocently, nibbling on a piece of carrot he'd found in one of the dishes.
Glaring jokingly, HyunJoong waved a chopstick at him. "Oh no. You know something..."
HaRa saw the two out of the corner of her eye and giggled, nudging Nicole to look as well.
"Says who?" JungMin snickered, tapping his chopstick against HyunJoong's and forcing the point lower. "You're going to poke someone's eyes out like that~"
HyunJoong pouted and stuck his tongue out before turning back to his three-quarters finished meal. His lips, however, twitched in amusement.
Sticking his own tongue out in return, JungMin grinned and fiddled with his chopsticks, drawing designs in the leftover sauce on his plate.
It wasn't long before they were all done except for HyungJoon, and even then the younger boy looked like he was finally slowing down. "Maybe we should get Joonie away before he explodes," HaRa laughed.
"Sounds like a plan," HyunJoong chuckled. "We're gonna have to force you on a diet when we get back so you can fit into your costume," he told HyungJoon, shaking his head.
Whatever HyungJoon tried to say in return was lost in the food in his mouth.
"Okay, no more for you." Nicole took away his plate before smiling at KyuJong's mother. "Can we help you clean up, ajumma?"
"Oh, I'm sure I'll be fine," she laughed, standing and starting to gather up the dishes. Nevertheless, EunAh, Nicole and HaRa busied themselves helping her.
**************************
YoungSaeng dug through his bag and pulled out a pair of sweatpants and a baggy shirt, changing quickly and taking his hair down before he sat down on the bed. "JungMin wanted to tell so badly..." he chuckled, slightly red and very amused.
"I'm surprised he didn't," KyuJong laughed, changing as well. It was getting cold at night so he pulled on his long-sleeved pajamas, flattening his hair before he stretched. "A good way to end the day though." He walked over to YoungSaeng, caressing his boyfriend's cheek lightly.
Smiling at the caress, YoungSaeng brought his hand up to rest over KyuJong's. "I agree, but I'm sure I can think of a better way to end it," he murmured before bringing KyuJong down for a kiss.
KyuJong smiled into the kiss before returning it, knees pressing into the side of the bed on either side of YoungSaeng's legs. "Much better," he whispered against his lover's lips as he deepened the kiss.
"Told you," YoungSaeng murmured when he needed to breathe, and right before kissing him again. There was nothing like the private moments the two were able to share.
A few minutes later, KyuJong finally broke away enough to press a kiss to YoungSaeng's forehead instead. "Come on, bedtime," he whispered, stroking the other boy's cheek with his thumb before slowly climbing onto the bed, laying down and holding his arms out for YoungSaeng to join him.
Smiling brightly, YoungSaeng climbed under the covers and into KyuJong's waiting arms. With a final kiss, he closed his eyes and relaxed, asleep in moments.
KyuJong just watched him for a few minutes, running his hand automatically through his love's soft hair. Smiling to himself, he felt his eyes close and drifted off into sleep.
**************************
"Can we go see the barn?"
KyuJong laughed at how JungMin bounced around excitedly, clapping gloved hands together. The following morning was off to a good start, and after breakfast they had decided to explore around the area.
"I don't see why not." He held on to a water bottle in one hand and YoungSaeng's waist with the other. They'd all decided to bring water with them after getting lost in the forest last time.
YoungSaeng smiled at JungMin's enthusiasm at the prospect of seeing the barn. He followed behind KyuJong as he brought them out back, looking around as well. They hadn't gone into the barn when he was last there, spending their time either in the clearing training, or shut up in KyuJong's room.
The group walked towards the barn a bit away, following a path cut through the field. "We only have a few animals really, it's not much to see," KyuJong chuckled. It hardly seemed to matter though; JungMin was as excited as he could be and alternating between wandering in the field beside them or attaching himself to HyunJoong's side. The others followed along behind them, chattering happily. While the weather was getting chilly, it was a warm day for this time of year, so they weren't bundled up that much.
When they got closer to the barn, they noticed that there were a few horses in the field. HyungJoon, unable to help himself, laughed out loud when he saw JungMin's hair blowing in the light breeze.
"Wow, you guys have the same hairstyle...maybe we should call you JungMal instead~" he teased as they entered the barn.
YoungSaeng and HyunJoong choked on their water.
JungMin stared at HyungJoon with his mouth open. "You did not just say that."
HaRa and Nicole burst into helpless laughter as the redhead proceeded to chase the youngest boy around the group in circles, yelling.
YoungSaeng had to lean on KyuJong to remain standing as HyunJoong simply crumpled to the floor and started rolling.
"HyunJoongie Oppa, you look like you're convulsing," Nicole laughed.
JungMin stopped for a moment to look at HyunJoong, and started laughing. "What's wrong with him?!"
"JungMal~!" HyungJoon called, somehow thinking he was safe behind KyuJong and YoungSaeng. JungMin darted around them and grabbed the youngest in a headlock.
"He does that," HaRa chimed in, smiling brightly. "Get him laughing hard enough and he can't stand on his own anymore."
Shaking his head and laughing, KyuJong brought YoungSaeng over to help HyunJoong back to his feet, getting his boyfriend away from the flailing and shrieking HyungJoon.
Shaking his head, YoungSaeng bent down to help HyunJoong up, only to let out a startled yelp as he was pulled to the ground on accident.
All of the flailing caused HyungJoon to drop the water bottle he'd been holding, top falling off and water splashing everywhere.
The second he saw the water bottle fall, JungMin's eyes widened and he pushed HyungJoon away from him, water splashing onto the redhead's shirt.
Suddenly there was a flash, and the harsh crackle of electricity snapped through the air. Shrieking, HyungJoon landed on his stomach as JungMin flailed and fell over onto his rear.
All noise ceased, the entire group falling still and quiet. KyuJong slowly straightened from where he'd been about to help YoungSaeng back up, eyes on the redhead on the ground.
JungMin stared back at them, skin completely void of color as thin flashes of electricity snaked around his torso, centered around the large wet spot on the front of his shirt.
Authors: renichifreak and yeonah
Chapter: 26/?
Fandom: SS501
Pairings: KyuSaeng, HyunMin (may be other pairings in the future)
Rating: PG-16
Warning: Angst, AU, Fluff
Summary: Not everything is as it seems, and for those who are as far from normal as you can get, life is a bleak existence. The only ones who can truly understand what these individuals go through are those...just like them.
A/N: YoungSaeng and HyunJoong are played by renichifreak and KyuJong and JungMin are played by me. Updates will be every second Wednesday <3
YoungSaeng led the way out, making sure to lock the door when everyone was out. The three talked all the way outside, where they met up with the others, who had also just left the building.
JungMin instantly transferred from pestering YoungSaeng to pestering HyunJoong instead, poking at him repeatedly. KyuJong chuckled as he wrapped his arms around his boyfriend and they all walked to the bus stop, where a few other groups of students were waiting.
Once they arrived at the bus stop, HyunJoong released a loud sigh, finally giving in to JungMin's incessant badgering. "I said I'd tell them and I will. Just relax, you pest!" he yelled, though it was obvious that he wasn't mad or annoyed; more amused than anything else.
"Tell us what?" Nicole asked, curious.
The redhead jumped at the yell, blinking for a moment before he snapped out of stunned-deer mode and started flailing again. "His swimming meet yesterday! It was amazing! He's like a, a fish or something, though a really hot fish in that suit, and I didn't even know someone could swim that fast, or that well, you should have seen it!" he babbled, unable to stop as he bounced.
HyunJoong reached up and covered JungMin's mouth, effectively shutting him up. The blush that seemed to pop onto his face whenever the redhead would comment on his looks made an appearance.
"Calm down, JungMin," HyunJoong chuckled. Letting the hand fall from JungMin's mouth, he shook out the tingle in his fingers and reached into his bag with his other hand, pulling out the gold medal.
HyungJoon's eyes widened and he stared, mouth open. "You got gold?!"
"Congratulations!" Nicole exclaimed, hugging him. KyuJong smiled widely, hugging YoungSaeng close. "That's great, HyunJoong! Wish we could have seen."
"It was fantastic!" JungMin chirped, and immediately launched into a full-out commentary of every single second of the meet.
YoungSaeng had to smile at how enthusiastic JungMin was. He was aware that the younger boy rarely went out before he was committed to the hospital, so he had to have had the time of his life.
The redhead only shut up when the bus pulled up to the stop, the group lining up to get on. KyuJong went to the back where they'd been last time, getting out of the way so YoungSaeng could take the window seat. JungMin looked around, seeming at a loss for where he was supposed to go.
"We kind of take over the back of the bus, Min, so take a seat anywhere," YoungSaeng explained before seeing KyuJong move to let him into the window seat. He moved to sit before pausing.
Taking a deep breath, he nudged KyuJong inside. He'd give it a shot, and knew that if he felt discomfort, KyuJong would switch with him in an instant.
KyuJong looked at YoungSaeng in surprise as he was nudged into the bench first. After a moment he smiled gently and took the window seat, settling so that he could take YoungSaeng into his arms the moment they were all settled. His heart swelled with pride in every single step forward YoungSaeng took.
JungMin shuffled uncertainly for a moment before sitting down in a bench on a diagonal from theirs, curling up next to the window. Now that they were actually on the bus, he was rather quiet.
Noticing the uncharacteristic silence, HyunJoong got up from where he'd been sitting beside HyungJoon and dropped into the seat beside JungMin. Smiling, he dangled the medal in front of the redhead. "Wanna hold it? It's heavier than I would have thought."
Blinking at the flash of gold in front of his face, JungMin smiled after a moment and held out gloved hands to take it, and was surprised at the weight. "Woah. No wonder you don't wear it around your neck for long." He looked down at it in his hands for a moment before grinning and handing it back.
Taking it back and placing it back into his bag, HyunJoong looked at JungMin a bit closer. "Something wrong?" he asked.
Shrugging, JungMin shifted a little further down into the seat. "It's nothing." He looked out the window as the bus pulled away from the stop and back onto the street. "I think the last time I did anything even remotely like this was a class field trip when I was ten." For all his excitement, he didn't seem quite so certain about what he was doing anymore.
"Well basically, we're just going to spend the vacation at Kyu's place. His parents are amazing and so is his little sister." HyunJoong paused to snicker. "Though her taste in guys could use a little work if the crush she has on Joonie is anything to go by."
JungMin's lips quirked upwards at that. “Really? She has a crush on him?" he glanced over at HyungJoon, then back to the older man. "Tell me what it's like there."
"Peaceful," HyunJoong answered immediately. "If you couldn't tell by the accent, he's a country boy through and through. Lots of open space and the kind of family that everyone wishes to have..."
"And his mother is the greatest cook alive, " YoungSaeng chimed in, having overheard.
JungMin laughed. "Is that where the forklift idea came from?" he asked, looking at HyungJoon who flushed.
"It's really good, okay?" the youngest mumbled, slinking down further in his seat and sulking.
The redhead grinned, seeming to relax a little. "Does he have a farm?"
"There's a small barn in the back," KyuJong chuckled, wrapping his arms around YoungSaeng.
"You attached yourself to the staircase and asked to be adopted..." YoungSaeng reminded HyungJoon with a laugh, turning sideways in the seat and leaning back against KyuJong.
HyungJoon pouted at him, and mock-glared at JungMin when the redhead snickered. "You'll be doing the same, I swear it."
JungMin smirked. "I might do crazy things, but I think I'll be leaving the stair-clinging to you." He laughed at the face HyungJoon made.
"All kidding aside though, Minnie yah, you'll love it there. His parents are the nicest people I think I've ever met, and his sister is adorable," YoungSaeng told him, understanding his nervousness better than anyone.
The redhead grinned at his friend. "They sound great." He looked out the window, noticing they were leaving the city. He pressed one gloved hand to the glass, watching the buildings and houses fall away.
"It's going to be a long trip," KyuJong said, making himself comfortable in the corner of the seat and settling YoungSaeng against him.
Settling in himself, YoungSaeng let out a small yawn, relaxing against his lover. It didn't take very long for him to fall asleep after that.
Seeing YoungSaeng asleep, Nicole brightened and dug for her camera before pulling it out and snapping a few pictures.
KyuJong smiled at Nicole before he rested his head against YoungSaeng's and closed his eyes, drifting off.
The trip to his town was peaceful, with small patches of conversation here and there. JungMin asked HyunJoong questions sometimes, but other times would just watch outside the window in silence.
KyuJong woke up when he felt HaRa nudging him. Opening his eyes, he looked up at her to see her hanging over the seat in front and smiling. "We're just about there."
Nodding with a smile in return, KyuJong kissed YoungSaeng's temple, whispering in his ear.
YoungSaeng woke to the light kiss and looked around before settling on KyuJong, smiling. "Are we there?" he asked, stretching.
"Just about," KyuJong smiled, cupping his face lightly and brushing his bangs out of his eyes. "We're getting ready."
JungMin looked over at them with a smile, shuffling around in the seat and wincing at his cramped legs from sitting curled up for too long.
Seeing his friend's discomfort, YoungSaeng chuckled. "We have to walk for a bit, so it'll give you a chance to stretch your legs out," he explained.
"Sounds great to me." JungMin reached down and pulled his bag up off the floor as the bus slowly eased to a stop at the edge of the town. The group got to their feet, KyuJong grabbing his bag and slinging it over his shoulder as he stood.
Once they were off the bus, YoungSaeng smiled brightly at being back. He looked around before stretching out as much as he could. "God, I missed this place," he stated with a smile.
"We actually weren't here all that long ago," KyuJong chuckled, though he knew what YoungSaeng meant. Taking his boyfriend's hand, he swung it absently as the others got off the bus and the bus drove away. JungMin was looking around in circles, taking in the wide fields and the houses further down the road.
"I still missed the calm..." YoungSaeng pouted.
HyunJoong laughed at JungMin's excitement. "Nice, huh?" he asked with a smile.
"It's very different," JungMin said, looking back at him with a grin before returning his gaze to the fields.
"I missed it too." KyuJong squeezed YoungSaeng's hand before starting to walk. "Come on, they're waiting for us." The others followed along behind them.
The walk to KyuJong's house took no time at all given the very lively conversation and JungMin running wide circles around them.
YoungSaeng was quiet as he took in the calm that he so rarely got to feel while living in the city, eyes closed and small smile on his face, trusting KyuJong to lead him.
As they approached the house, KyuJong laughed quietly and nudged YoungSaeng. "Someone's waiting for us."
EunAh was sitting on the front porch steps. When she saw the group approaching her face lit up and she bounced to her feet, opening the front door to yell into the house before running to the end of the driveway to greet them. "Oppas and unnies~!"
HaRa and Nicole squealed and ran ahead to greet the girl, cuddling her and gossiping the second they reached her.
HyunJoong laughed at them before turning to the others. "I think they've adopted her..."
"Who's adopted who?" KyuJong chuckled, watching his sister all but bounce in excitement.
His mother came to the door as they walked up the driveway. "How was the trip?" she asked, smiling at them. "Dinner is just about ready."
YoungSaeng brightened at seeing the woman when they entered the house. "It was entirely uneventful," YoungSaeng replied. "Oh, and this is a friend of mine, JungMin."
JungMin waved a little nervously. "Hi."
She smiled at him in reply. "Nice to meet you JungMin. Why don't you all come inside? It's getting cold out." She left the door open for them to come in.
"Appa won't be in for dinner, he's out working, but he'll be home later," EunAh said, pulling HaRa and Nicole towards the door.
Slipping his shoes off and placing his bag out of the way, YoungSaeng followed the woman inside. "How have you been?" he asked her.
"I've been well, rather missed you both. The house has been too empty," she smiled at him. "And yourself? How is school? Is my son treating you all right?"
"School's going as well as it can, and I've never been treated better in my life," YoungSaeng replied happily.
"That's good," she smiled at them. "I prepared some of your favorites for dinner, they should be ready in a few minutes. Perhaps you can keep your friend from passing out of hunger before then?" she laughed, motioning at HyungJoon who had just about keeled over from the enticing smell of food inside.
YoungSaeng smiled at the woman's gesture. "Thank you. Your cooking is awesome." Pausing at her question, he laughed. "And he's pretty much a lost cause at this point."
"Just let him know he won't be able to eat anything if he knocks himself unconscious, that should do the trick," the woman laughed before heading into the kitchen to finish up dinner.
"Where are we staying?" HaRa asked, looking at them.
"You and Nicole unnie can stay with me in my room, it's big enough," EunAh piped up. "Kyu and YoungSaeng oppadeul have his room, and there's a guest bedroom that should be okay for HyunJoong, HyungJoon and JungMin oppadeul."
HyunJoong snickered. "You said you have a barn, right? Just stick Joonie in there with the other animals. He should be fine."
"It's a little cold for that," EunAh giggled, though she turned a little pink when she glanced at HyungJoon then away. KyuJong chuckled in amusement, resting his chin on YoungSaeng's shoulder from behind and wrapping his arms around his lover's waist. JungMin wasn't even paying attention to the conversation, trying to look at everything without touching anything.
YoungSaeng smiled at EunAh when he saw the blush, leaning back into the embrace.
"JungMin, I doubt they'd mind if you touched something. You aren't in a museum," HyunJoong chuckled.
Watching the others, KyuJong expected JungMin to take the invitation and start poking around, but the younger boy just shook his head and kept his hands clasped behind his back to remove temptation as he looked around, standing up on his toes to peer at a picture on the wall.
"Maybe you guys should bring your bags upstairs," EunAh suggested, already going to climb up the stairs.
"Sounds good," Nicole stated, picking her bag back up and following after EunAh, the others behind her.
As they headed upstairs, EunAh showed them where the guest room was, as well as the bathroom. KyuJong squeezed YoungSaeng's hand and led him to his own room, opening the door and stepping inside. It felt nice to be back home, even better with his friends and lover.
Once in KyuJong's room, YoungSaeng walked over to the bed and plopped down before falling back with a happy sigh. "I love your room, Kyu yah..."
"It's nice," KyuJong said, but his attention was on YoungSaeng as he sat down next to him and looked back at the younger boy. He laughed at hearing loud exclamations down the hallway. "I don't think the house will be as quiet as last time though."
"Nothing is very quiet with JungMin around, but I'm glad he's here," YoungSaeng said, lifting a hand and running his fingers up and down KyuJong's spine lightly. "It's very hard adjusting once you've been in a place like the hospital for as long as we were in there."
"I noticed." KyuJong shivered at the touch to his spine, arching his back slightly before twisting his upper body around so he could cup YoungSaeng's cheek. "Who was in there first, between you both?"
"I'm pretty sure it was me. The first few months there were a blur of bed rest and medication to control the breakdowns, but I'm pretty sure he showed up about five or six months after me," YoungSaeng explained, placing one hand beneath his head and wrapping the other around KyuJong's neck, lightly caressing the skin there.
Leaning down, KyuJong kissed YoungSaeng's lips lightly. "Did you ever talk about why you were in there with him?" he murmured, curious. "The real reason." They seemed very close.
YoungSaeng shook his head. "I could barely think about it without feeling like I'd relapse, so I kept quiet. And JungMin wasn't kidding before. I seriously never spoke. I used to carry around a notebook with me so that if I wanted something, I'd write it out," he explained.
Nodding in understanding, KyuJong smiled gently and pressed his lips lovingly to YoungSaeng's forehead. "I'm glad things are different now. You have no idea how proud I am of you."
"Dinner!" EunAh called, and they heard her running down the stairs.
"It feels so odd hearing someone say that to me," YoungSaeng smiled, moving to kiss KyuJong softly.
Hearing EunAh's declaration and HyungJoon practically break the sound barrier, YoungSaeng smiled and slowly sat up.
Laughing quietly, KyuJong caressed YoungSaeng's cheek lightly. "It's true, and I'll keep saying it," he murmured, kissing his lover back gently before he got to his feet, pulling YoungSaeng up slowly. "Let's get downstairs before HyungJoon eats everything." He heard the others going downstairs as well, at a more reasonable pace than the youngest.
"I'd rather stay here, but I love your mom's cooking too much..." YoungSaeng replied as he was pulled to his feet. Leaning forward, he pressed his lips to KyuJong's more firmly before parting slowly. "After you?"
Closing his eyes for a moment at the kiss, KyuJong opened them again as YoungSaeng pulled back, smiling as he nodded. Holding on to YoungSaeng's hand, he turned to walk out of the room and down the stairs.
His mother was finishing placing dishes on the table with EunAh's help, the others already settled into chairs and leaving two empty ones together for the couple.
Grinning at the group, YoungSaeng took a seat beside JungMin. "Everything smells and looks amazing," he commented, laughing at the round of agreement.
"Glad you approve," KyuJong's mother smiled as she took a seat and they started to eat. As expected, HyungJoon piled as much on his plate as he could. JungMin tried what was closest to him, eyes lighting up at the taste. EunAh was happily gossiping with Nicole and HaRa at the other end of the table.
While he ate less than everyone else and at a much slower pace, YoungSaeng practically melted at the delicious taste of everything. It didn't take much before he felt full, but he continued to eat just a bit more, knowing that he needed to. He was sure that he could regain a normal appetite if he was able to eat food as good as KyuJong's mother's.
KyuJong watched YoungSaeng out of the corner of his eyes, smiling as he watched the expression on his boyfriend's face.
"Hey oppa," EunAh piped up when she looked up from her conversation, blinking. KyuJong looked back at her. "Hm?"
"Why is YoungSaeng oppa wearing the sweater umma got you last year?"
Blinking, KyuJong turned red as there were a fresh round of squeals from HaRa and Nicole.
YoungSaeng reddened at the comment, but couldn't help but smile as he turned to the girl. "Because it looks so much better on me, EunAh yah," YoungSaeng replied teasingly, lightly nudging KyuJong.
"I have to agree with that," KyuJong chuckled, still red as he slipped one arm around YoungSaeng's waist. JungMin snickered on his lover's other side, obviously holding his tongue before he could blurt out things.
HyungJoon, however, had no such qualms. "Are you already to the exchanging clothes stage? " He wiped fake tears from his eyes. "They grow up so fast..."
"No more food for him, umma," KyuJong said, hiding his face against YoungSaeng's shoulder. If only they knew that they had moved past that...
"Leave them alone," HaRa laughed, poking HyungJoon.
"Thank you, Hara," YoungSaeng stated just before the whining began. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed JungMin practically twitching to speak and, assuming what he wanted to say, promptly kicked him in the shin, albeit lighter than he could have.
JungMin jumped and glanced at them, then grinned widely and went back to his food, occupying himself that way to avoid saying anything.
KyuJong put his chopsticks down once he was done, sitting back with a sigh. He couldn't eat another bite. Settling against YoungSaeng, he listened to the others talk with a small smile, sleepiness starting to sneak up on him.
YoungSaeng looked over at KyuJong before smiling softly. "Would it be okay if we headed upstairs now? It's late and we're both pretty tired," YoungSaeng asked, running a hand lightly over KyuJong's arm.
"Of course sweetie," KyuJong's mom smiled at them. "Get a good night's rest."
"Thanks for dinner, umma." KyuJong stood up, helping YoungSaeng to his feet as well.
"Sleep well~" JungMin snickered as they walked by, and KyuJong poked him hard in the side.
HyunJoong watched the two head up before turning to JungMin, eyes bright with curiosity. "What am I missing?" he asked quietly, making sure the others were distracted and couldn't hear.
"Oh, nothing." JungMin replied innocently, nibbling on a piece of carrot he'd found in one of the dishes.
Glaring jokingly, HyunJoong waved a chopstick at him. "Oh no. You know something..."
HaRa saw the two out of the corner of her eye and giggled, nudging Nicole to look as well.
"Says who?" JungMin snickered, tapping his chopstick against HyunJoong's and forcing the point lower. "You're going to poke someone's eyes out like that~"
HyunJoong pouted and stuck his tongue out before turning back to his three-quarters finished meal. His lips, however, twitched in amusement.
Sticking his own tongue out in return, JungMin grinned and fiddled with his chopsticks, drawing designs in the leftover sauce on his plate.
It wasn't long before they were all done except for HyungJoon, and even then the younger boy looked like he was finally slowing down. "Maybe we should get Joonie away before he explodes," HaRa laughed.
"Sounds like a plan," HyunJoong chuckled. "We're gonna have to force you on a diet when we get back so you can fit into your costume," he told HyungJoon, shaking his head.
Whatever HyungJoon tried to say in return was lost in the food in his mouth.
"Okay, no more for you." Nicole took away his plate before smiling at KyuJong's mother. "Can we help you clean up, ajumma?"
"Oh, I'm sure I'll be fine," she laughed, standing and starting to gather up the dishes. Nevertheless, EunAh, Nicole and HaRa busied themselves helping her.
**************************
YoungSaeng dug through his bag and pulled out a pair of sweatpants and a baggy shirt, changing quickly and taking his hair down before he sat down on the bed. "JungMin wanted to tell so badly..." he chuckled, slightly red and very amused.
"I'm surprised he didn't," KyuJong laughed, changing as well. It was getting cold at night so he pulled on his long-sleeved pajamas, flattening his hair before he stretched. "A good way to end the day though." He walked over to YoungSaeng, caressing his boyfriend's cheek lightly.
Smiling at the caress, YoungSaeng brought his hand up to rest over KyuJong's. "I agree, but I'm sure I can think of a better way to end it," he murmured before bringing KyuJong down for a kiss.
KyuJong smiled into the kiss before returning it, knees pressing into the side of the bed on either side of YoungSaeng's legs. "Much better," he whispered against his lover's lips as he deepened the kiss.
"Told you," YoungSaeng murmured when he needed to breathe, and right before kissing him again. There was nothing like the private moments the two were able to share.
A few minutes later, KyuJong finally broke away enough to press a kiss to YoungSaeng's forehead instead. "Come on, bedtime," he whispered, stroking the other boy's cheek with his thumb before slowly climbing onto the bed, laying down and holding his arms out for YoungSaeng to join him.
Smiling brightly, YoungSaeng climbed under the covers and into KyuJong's waiting arms. With a final kiss, he closed his eyes and relaxed, asleep in moments.
KyuJong just watched him for a few minutes, running his hand automatically through his love's soft hair. Smiling to himself, he felt his eyes close and drifted off into sleep.
**************************
"Can we go see the barn?"
KyuJong laughed at how JungMin bounced around excitedly, clapping gloved hands together. The following morning was off to a good start, and after breakfast they had decided to explore around the area.
"I don't see why not." He held on to a water bottle in one hand and YoungSaeng's waist with the other. They'd all decided to bring water with them after getting lost in the forest last time.
YoungSaeng smiled at JungMin's enthusiasm at the prospect of seeing the barn. He followed behind KyuJong as he brought them out back, looking around as well. They hadn't gone into the barn when he was last there, spending their time either in the clearing training, or shut up in KyuJong's room.
The group walked towards the barn a bit away, following a path cut through the field. "We only have a few animals really, it's not much to see," KyuJong chuckled. It hardly seemed to matter though; JungMin was as excited as he could be and alternating between wandering in the field beside them or attaching himself to HyunJoong's side. The others followed along behind them, chattering happily. While the weather was getting chilly, it was a warm day for this time of year, so they weren't bundled up that much.
When they got closer to the barn, they noticed that there were a few horses in the field. HyungJoon, unable to help himself, laughed out loud when he saw JungMin's hair blowing in the light breeze.
"Wow, you guys have the same hairstyle...maybe we should call you JungMal instead~" he teased as they entered the barn.
YoungSaeng and HyunJoong choked on their water.
JungMin stared at HyungJoon with his mouth open. "You did not just say that."
HaRa and Nicole burst into helpless laughter as the redhead proceeded to chase the youngest boy around the group in circles, yelling.
YoungSaeng had to lean on KyuJong to remain standing as HyunJoong simply crumpled to the floor and started rolling.
"HyunJoongie Oppa, you look like you're convulsing," Nicole laughed.
JungMin stopped for a moment to look at HyunJoong, and started laughing. "What's wrong with him?!"
"JungMal~!" HyungJoon called, somehow thinking he was safe behind KyuJong and YoungSaeng. JungMin darted around them and grabbed the youngest in a headlock.
"He does that," HaRa chimed in, smiling brightly. "Get him laughing hard enough and he can't stand on his own anymore."
Shaking his head and laughing, KyuJong brought YoungSaeng over to help HyunJoong back to his feet, getting his boyfriend away from the flailing and shrieking HyungJoon.
Shaking his head, YoungSaeng bent down to help HyunJoong up, only to let out a startled yelp as he was pulled to the ground on accident.
All of the flailing caused HyungJoon to drop the water bottle he'd been holding, top falling off and water splashing everywhere.
The second he saw the water bottle fall, JungMin's eyes widened and he pushed HyungJoon away from him, water splashing onto the redhead's shirt.
Suddenly there was a flash, and the harsh crackle of electricity snapped through the air. Shrieking, HyungJoon landed on his stomach as JungMin flailed and fell over onto his rear.
All noise ceased, the entire group falling still and quiet. KyuJong slowly straightened from where he'd been about to help YoungSaeng back up, eyes on the redhead on the ground.
JungMin stared back at them, skin completely void of color as thin flashes of electricity snaked around his torso, centered around the large wet spot on the front of his shirt.