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Chapter Text

Seonghwa would arrive at his job every day at 7 o’clock. Never a minute early, never a minute late. Granted, kids didn’t start coming until eight thirty and most of his other coworkers didn’t start arriving till eight, but he always wanted to be ahead of the game. So of course you can imagine the surprise when he arrived at school and saw one of his newer preschoolers sitting on the steps. He stopped in his steps and observed the boy. Jung Wooyoung just turned 4 and hasn’t spoken a word to anyone, even Seonghwa. 

Seonghwa looked around to make sure his eyes weren’t playing tricks on him this early in the morning. And when he confirmed that the child in front of him was in fact really there he bent down to his eye level and sighed. 

“Wooyoung, did your parents drop you off early today?” Seonghwa gently asked, not expecting a verbal answer, all he received was a nod. “It’s a little chilly out, let’s head inside.” grabbing Wooyoung’s hand, he led the way to his classroom. Noting the fact that it’s supposed to be cold all day due to the seasons changing and Wooyoung did not have a coat or even a hat. 

“Put your backpack in your cubby and find a seat, I can get you some paper and crayons to color with,” giving the kid something to do while he got the class ready for the day. After a while, more of his coworkers started to come and his best friend/boss entered his room. 

“Let me guess, you’ve been here since the sun rose?” his boss chuckled. 

Rolling his eyes, Seonghwa simply smiled “Of course Juyeon, I really don’t understand why you ask me that every day.” 

“Who’s this little fella?” Juyeon asked motioning to Wooyoung who had abandoned the crayons and paper in favor of staring at what he drew instead. 

“One of the new kids, Wooyoung. I found him sitting outside when I arrived. Apparently, his parents dropped him off early.” 

“A whole hour and a half early though? That’s odd,” 

“Yup.” 

“Whenever he gets picked up, make sure to ask the parents not to do that, it’s not really safe to be leaving him out there.” Juyeon finished as he walked out. 

Seonghwa sighed looking at Wooyoung. The drawing on the paper caught Seonghwa’s attention. From what Seonghwa could tell it was a drawing of a man, a woman as monsters… and a child under the bed. Feeling alarmed, Seonghwa made his way over to Wooyoung and kneeled down to his level. 

“Wooyoung, what did you draw?” He questioned. Met with silence, Wooyoung pushed the paper over to Seonghwa. 

“m-monsters,” Wooyoung whispered. 

“Wooyoung-ah, monsters don’t exist in real life,” Seonghwa comforted. 

“okay.” 

“Do you want me to keep the picture?” 

Wooyoung nodded turning his attention to the kids that have started entering the classroom. Seonghwa hadn’t even noticed. It’s just a drawing . Seonghwa told himself. Nothing to worry about, even if his gut was telling him differently. 

“Appa!” a loud screech came from the door. Choosing to put the conversation with Wooyoung in the back of his head he turned around and saw his 4 year old son, San running towards him. San ran straight into his father's legs smiling. 

“Hi Sannie, did papa drop you off or Yeosangie?” 

“Papa did he right there!” San said pointing towards the door, where Hongjoong stood. “Okay, go put your stuff away and sit down,” Seonghwa said. San let go to do the opposite of what Soenghwa said, but they were working on that. 

Seonghwa walked over to his husband, smiling as Hongjoong reached out for him. “Good morning love,” Hongjoong beamed. 

“You’re quite happy for someone who had to get two preschoolers ready.” 

Hongjoong chuckled “We had no problems today, well almost no problems, Mingi did refuse to wear matching shoes and I decided that was not a battle I was going to fight today.” 

“They did well on the ride?” Seonghwa uttered. After adopting Mingi and San the couple found out that San had ADHD and Mingi had autism. It was difficult in the beginning they cannot lie, especially when they were younger but they’ve learned and adapted to better cater to each of their son’s needs. 

“Yep, San took his medication right when he woke up so it kicked in before the ride and Mingi actually fell asleep, there’s nothing to worry about.” Hongjoong knew that Seonghwa always felt bad and worried about leaving earlier than the boys so he always made sure to reassure him. 

“Mr. Seonghwaaa,” a voice called out from inside the class. Seonghwa sighed as he stepped away from his husband. 

“Sounds like it’s time for me to go and for you to start your day,” Hongjoong remarked. Nodding, Seonghwa waved Hongjoong off as he turned, plastered the biggest smile on his face, and went in to begin the kid's day. 

↔

The day went by as smoothly as it can go with a bunch of twenty something four year olds. With the weather changing slowly into winter, a lot of their activities were focused on seasons and how the weather works. As long as the kids enjoyed it, Seonghwa loved it. Soon enough the day came to an end and parents started arriving to pick up their children. Scattered conversations could be heard all throughout the classrooms as parents came and went. The only kids that were left were his own and Wooyoung. The school had a 30 minute wait period after school ended for parents who would be late getting their children. But those 30 minutes soon passed and Seonghwa was left leaving voicemails to the numbers on file for Wooyoung’s parents. 

“Boys can you grab your stuff, we have to go grab Mingi from his classroom and head dot the office,” Seonghwa asked. 

“Okay appa,” San cheerfully replied, unbeknownst to the concern radiating from Seonghwa’s body. First, they drop him off way too early and now they’re late picking him up? Thought Seonghwa, but he wasn’t one to judge, kind of. Shit happens he understands but a phone call to let the school know would've been nice. Once Wooyoung and San gathered their things, they stop by his youngest’s classroom. 

Mingi comes running out of the classroom, backpack bumping his foot with every step “Appa!” 

“Hi baby, did you have a good day?” 

“Mhmm, we draw pictures!” Mingi happily explains as Seonghwa does his best to lead the children down to the office. 

As soon as they get there, they are met with the sight of Juyeon arguing with a parent. As soon as they see Seonghwa and the kids, the man storms out and grabs Wooyoung by the arm.

“Wait! Can I speak with you for a moment before you leave” Seonghwa asks, noticing the way Wooyoung slightly flinched when grabbed. 

“No. We’re leaving.” the man says as they walk out. Seonghwa tries to say something else but Juyeon stops him. 

“It’s not worth it. I already spoke with them about the whole morning incident and how we can’t keep kids after 30 minutes. They weren’t really receptive.” 

“Did you see the way Wooyoung flinched?” 

“No? He flinched?” Juyeon inquired. 

Shrugging, Seonghwa nodded “Yea, well that’s what I thought I saw, maybe I’m just reading too much into it.”

“Keep an eye out, for now, it looks like your little ones are ready to go,” pointed Juyeon. Sure enough, Mingi had started to wander off while San stood at the doors pouting. 

“You’re right, I guess I’ll see you tomorrow,” laughing, Seonghwa gathered his sons and left. That nagging feeling of something being off after that interaction with Wooyoung’s father he assumes bothered him all the way to the car, on the ride home, and as he laid down for the night. Hongjoong sent his husband odd looks throughout the night when he and the kids arrived home, but they were brushed off. 

“Will you tell me now what’s been bothering you?” Hongjoong sighed as he pulled Seonghwa in close. 

“I just think that there might be something wrong with Wooyoung’s home situation,” he whispered. “He’s so quiet for a four year old, he flinched when his father grabbed him and he drew a picture of a kid hiding under a bed away from a man and a woman disguised as monsters. It all just doesn’t sit right with me. I feel like something is wrong.” 

“It may have just been an off day for the father and Wooyoung, maybe things will change,” 

“You’re right, I don’t even want to think about it anymore, let's go to bed.” Seonghwa agrees. He doesn’t let that feeling go. All through the night Seonghwa continued to think about it.

While eventually, Seonghwa fell into a peaceful sleep alongside Hongjoong, somewhere across town, Wooyoung lay awake, hiding under his bed, praying the monsters would go away. 

Chapter Text

It was not in fact just an “off day” and things certainly did not change. Wooyoung continued to show up to school before Seonghwa, was constantly picked up later than the rest and he continued to draw the monsters. Today, when Seonghwa got to school he heard light sniffles as he got closer to the building, quickening his pace he was met with the sight of Wooyoung clutching his arm, crying softly. 

Seonghwa dropped down to his knees, ignoring the cold pavement underneath him. “Wooyoung, sweetheart, are you okay? What happened?” Concern laced his voice as he did a once over of the child’s body. 

Wooyoung didn’t seem to notice Seonghwa talking to him as his breath picked up and his cries got louder. It felt as if the air was leaving Wooyoung’s tiny little body all within seconds. His chest began to tighten as his vision began to blur due to the many tears that kept spilling. “H-Hurts!” he whimpered, barely managing to get what he wanted to say out. 

“Wooyoung I need you to breathe for me okay,” Seonghwa’s voice floated through the air. “Baby please,” he panicked. It just seemed like Wooyoung was getting worse. Seonghwa gently pulled Wooyoung into his embrace, rocking him back and forth being cautious of his arm which he thought was injured. “Heart my heartbeat Woo? Focus on that baby, you got this,” he whispered. As Wooyoung started to become more aware, his tiny fist took a grip on Seonghwa’s shirt. He buried his head deep into Seonghwa’s chest as his cries turned back into sniffles. “You’re doing so good Woo, you’re okay.” 

Enough time has passed that some other staff had started to arrive, Seonghwa didn’t pay any notice to anyone, only focused on the shaking boy in his arms. Not that anyone stopped to pay attention anyways. It wasn’t until another five minutes Juyeon came rushing towards them hastily asking what happened. 

“I don’t entirely know yet, could you check his arm? He said it hurt,” Seonghwa explained. Nodding, Juyeon gently pried Wooyoung’s hand away from Seonghwa and rolled his sleeve up, he was met with the sight of dark red and purple bruises all over Wooyoung’s arm, some almost in the shape of a hand... Rolling back down his sleeve, Juyeon sighed. 

“Bruising all over his arm…” Juyeon swallowed, creating hundreds of scenarios of where a four year old could have possibly gotten those bruises from. But due to the fact that he swore he saw a handprint, only one possible scenario stuck in his mind. That those bruises were done intentionally. 

“Are you serious?” murmured Seonghwa, Unsettled by the revelation, unconsciously tightening his grip on Wooyoung. 

“Some looked to be shaped like handprints Seonghwa, and I know you’re thinking the same thing I am.” 

“We have to report this-this is not okay,” 

“I’ll make a call when I get to my office, for now, bring him to the nurse and he can rest there for a while,” Juyeon concluded. 

Making sure he still had a grip on Wooyoung, Seonghwa stood up and made his way to the nurse's office. The loud echo of his footsteps down the hall somehow made Seonghwa feel even more unsettled. His fast steps mirrored the fast heartbeat in his chest. He didn’t want to think that someone had purposefully hurt a child but unfortunately, that just might be the truth. Finally making it to the nurse, he knocked on the door waiting for it to open. Not even a few seconds later, the main nurse, one of his best friends, Jongho opened the door and ushered them inside. 

“What happened?” Jongho asked as he took a look at Wooyoung. 

Rolling Wooyoung’s sleeve up, Jongho was startled at the many bruises on this child's arm. The handprint-shaped one caught his eye and he quickly rushed to grab some ice, and ointment to put on the injuries. 

“Someone did this on purpose? It looks like his arm was repeatedly twisted. And that’s an adult-sized handprint.” he scoffed as he gently rubbed the ointment on, hushing Wooyoung’s whimpers. 

“Juyeon is making a call right now. I’m hoping Yeosang is the one assigned to this case.” Seonghwa provided. Once Jongho was done with everything, Seonghwa went to lay Wooyoung on of the cots in the back room to rest but he would not let go. 

Tightening his grip, Wooyoung began to cry. “No go, stay please” he trembled. 

“Woo baby I have to, You’re going to be okay in here with my friend Jognho,” If you listened closely enough you could hear the hesitancy in Seonghwa’s voice, deep down not wanting to let him out of his sight. Wooyoung only refused more. His grip around Seonghwa’s neck didn’t let up. 

Wooyoung repeated “No! No! No!” like a mantra as he sobbed. Seonghwa had been the only source of comfort Wooyoung had in a while, and he knew he was being selfish by not letting go he knew that selfish boys got punished according to his momma but wooyoung couldn’t help but want to remain within the comfort, and care. In his four year old mind, Wooyoung told himself he could be selfish for once. Momma won’t know. Momma will find out . It took another fifteen minutes for Seonghwa and even Jongho to pry him off. It took everything in Seonghwa not to turn around as he left the nurse's office due to Wooyoung’s cries being so loud. It took everything in Seonghwa not to cry himself. 

***

“We need more than this to even start investing, let alone build a case,” Yeosang informed. Sitting back in his chair after reading the injury report from Jognho. He lifted his head to meet Juyeon and Seonghwa in the eyes. “This isn’t enough.”

“What do you mean ‘this isn’t enough’? He has hand-shaped bruises on his arm. Adult. Hand shaped bruises at that,” Seonghwa fumed. 

“I need more incidents, and reports in order for cps to even look into it. I know it’s a shitty thing but legally I cannot do anything until there is substantial proof of what you guys are claiming. And child abuse is a very hefty claim.” If it were up to Yeosang himself, he would take this immediately. He knows that with cps some kids fall through the cracks, cases aren't picked up, and children are left in the hands of monsters. Cps doesn’t do anything until it’s too late ultimately. He was just as upset as the two men in front of him. “Look get me more and I’ll try my best to expedite a case for him, I’ll even make sure that I, myself am the one in charge of it.” 

Running a hand down his face, Seonghwa sighed. “He’s only four, I can’t stand the thought of someone hurting him.” 

“We’ll get it sorted out eventually Hwa, right now unfortunately it’s just a waiting game.” Yeosang ended. 

“Waiting game my ass,” Juyeon scoffed. 

Seonghwa went home that day with a heavy heart. It didn’t feel right to send Wooyoung home when he was so sure that his home was where the problem resided. He had watched the way Wooyoung curled in on himself when his father came to pick him up, late once again. The grueling glare his father had sent the child on the way out. Seonghwa had to calm himself, as he was tempted to take Wooyoung away himself. As he went to bed that night Seonghwa made a promise to himself and silently to Wooyoung. Soon everything will be okay .

Chapter Text

For as long as Wooyoung could remember, he always knew his parents didn’t like him. From the way, his mother used to wear those rubbery latex gloves to touch him, to the way his father stared at him with regret. Everything his parents did was always in disdain. Their dislike for him only grew as he got older, his father started to get more physical when yelling at Wooyoung, and his mother stopped paying attention to him and the only time she did was to join his father in on hurting him. Wooyoung knew none of this was okay. Someone who loves you wouldn’t do this. But still, in his tiny four year old mind, Wooyoung loved his parents even through all the hurt and pain they caused him, he still loved them. Every day when they would finally leave him alone he found himself wishing to the stars that they would love him back. 

Like the way his teacher, Seonghwa, loved San and Mingi. He saw how every day when they would arrive Seonghwa would drop everything to give them all the hugs and kisses in the world. From an outsider looking in, it was like time stopped whenever Seonghwa was in the presence of someone that he loved. Wooyoung longed for that kind of love and attention. So that day when he hurt his arm and Seonghwa held him like he was one of his own, Wooyoung’s little heart ached even more. When Seonghwa let him go he begged and pleaded for him not to leave, his father always told him no one like clingy, don’t go looking for attention but Woo just couldn’t help it. If there was someone who was willingly giving it how else was Wooyoung supposed to refuse? The warmth and care that he felt when surrounded by Seonghwa was a feeling he never wanted to forget. Even as he was dragged home that night, even as he sobbed through the pain, even as he went without dinner for the fifth time that week, he never forgot that safe feeling he felt earlier that day, maybe that’s why the very next day when he saw Seonghwa approaching the school building, he ran as fast as he could into Seonghwa’s arms. 

“Woah there Woo, are you okay sweetheart?” Seonghwa was startled as he dropped down to Wooyoung’s height in order to hug back. It was nearing winter and Wooyoung had made his grip even tighter to gather any lingering warmth. “Where's your coat baby?” 

“No coat,” Wooyoung whispered. Soon enough he felt himself get lifted off the ground, Seonghwa gathered him and his stuff to head inside. “You’re freezing Woo,” 

“Hug?” Wooyoung whispered once again, almost scared to see if Seonghwa would agree. 

Gently smiling down at Wooyoung, Seonghwa's heart swelled. “Of course, you can get all the hugs in the world,” 

And with that, they went upon their day. 

***

Weeks passed and everything was going fine. Well as fine as they could be considering the situation at hand. Seonghwa, Juyeon, and Jongho were on the lookout for any more physical injuries on Wooyoung that they could report. Wooyoung had started to show up more fatigued and pale. Seonghwa was under the impression that Wooyoung was getting sick. He wouldn’t be surprised due to the fact that winter has arrived and the boy had no coat, hat, boot, nothing. But of course, you can’t report a simple cold to cps. 

It was Friday night, long after the school day when Seonghwa had realized he left Mingi’s stuffed bear on his desk, he had placed it there while he was getting the boys ready to leave, and without it, Mingi would not go to bed. He was screaming and crying, mumbling words that Hongjoong and Seonghwa couldn’t understand. They came to the agreement that Seonghwa would run back up to the school to grab it. So Seonghwa trekked out into the rainy night on a mission to get that bear and go but when he pulled up to the school he was met with the sight of a child sitting in the rain near the entrance. Seonghwa immediately got out of the car and rushed over the closer he got the more he could see that the child was Wooyoung, cradling a broken arm? Panic set in as he reached Woo. Even through all this rain, he could see that Wooyoung was sobbing. 

“Wooyoung?” he called out not liking the way Wooyoung flinched when he heard his name. “It’s just me baby, it’s Seonghwa.” he tried again. Seonghwa pulled out his phone and dialed Yeosang while he slowly reached for the boy. Coaxing him into his arms, Seonghwa forgot all about the bear and rushed to get Wooyoung into his car. 

“ Hello? Seonghwa it's 10 at night why are you-” 

“Yeosang I need you to meet me at the hospital” he cut off as he placed Woo in the back seat ignoring how soaked they both were, and rushed to get in the front. 

“ Why what happened? ” Yeosang asked. You could hear rustling in the background signifying that he was up and moving. 

“I found Wooyoung outside of the school with a broken arm” 

“ Don’t fuck with me right now Seonghwa ,” 

“Why the hell would I do that? Is this enough of an injury for you? To finally get cps involved? Fuck Yeo, I’m pretty sure he’s sick too, he wasn’t like this during school today so it must have happened at home!” Seonghwa exclaimed. Taking a breather to reassure the sobbing boy in the back. “We’re almost there Woo just hang tight.” 

“Okay, I’m almost there, see you.” 

The call ended just as Seonghwa pulled up to the hospital. He quickly rushed to grab Wooyoung out of the car and ran inside. “Help! Someone please!” he yelled. 

“Sir what happened?” a doctor came running up.

“I found him outside in the rain, his arm is broken and he has a fever.” Seonghwa handed Wooyoung to the outstretched hands of the doctor, trying to ignore Wooyoung’s tiny hands reaching for him. 

“Do you know any information about him?” 

“His name is Jung Wooyoung, and he’s four years old, please help him,” begged Seonghwa. 

“H-wa, Hwa want Hwa! Pl-Please!” Wooyoung cried as he struggled to put himself back in Seonghwa’s embrace. “No! No! No!” 

The doctor had placed Wooyoung on a stretcher and ordered for x-rays, soon as the nurses tried to roll him away, wooyoung cried harder than he ever did before. He did not want to go without Seonghwa. 

“Wooyoung baby I’ll be right here okay? I promise I’m not going anywhere,” Seonghwa called out as he watched Woo try to fight. Hoping he nor anyone else heard the tremble in his own voice. “I’m right here” he whispered as they finally distracted Wooyoung enough to take him away. 

Seonghwa sunk into a seat just as his phone began to ring. It was Hongjoong. Right, the bear. 

“Hello?” Seonghwa croaked. Feeling as if his throat would cave in if he talked more. 

“So I checked your location and you’re at the hospital? What in the world happened?” Hongjoong exclaimed. “I finally got Mingi to fall asleep in our bed but-” he was cut off by a sob. “Seonghwa what happened?” 

“It’s Wooyoung.” he breathed. “He’s hurt.”

Chapter Text

Seonghwa doesn’t know how long he was waiting until he felt a hand on his shoulder. He looked up and saw Yeosang. He sat down beside Seonghwa and let out a long sigh. 

“Where is he?” Yeosang asked. 

“The doctors took him away for x-rays and stuff,” Seonghwa looked to Yeosang, tears lining his eyes. “What’s going to happen now?” 

“We were able to find a judge at this time of night to sign an emergency court order to get Wooyoung placed in the state’s custody. We haven’t found a home for him yet but currently, the police are on the way to his residence to serve the court order.” 

“I’ll take him-” 

“Seonghwa, shouldn’t you wait until Hongjoong gets here to discuss that?” Yeosang advised. 

“Speak of the devil,” 

Hongjoong came rushing in with Mingi in his arms and San waddling behind. Seonghwa stood up immediately and met his husband in the middle. Hongjoong handed Mingi and San over to Yeosang then wrapped his arms around Seonghwa. As soon as he had his hands on him, Seonghwa broke down once again. Hongjoong whispered words to calm him down but the attempts proved to be fruitless. 

Tugging on Yeosang's arms, he looked down and saw San staring up at him “Is appa ‘kay?” San whispered. 

“Appa is just a little sad right now Sannie, he’ll be okay,” 

Soon enough, Seonghwa pulled away from Hongjong, wiping his eyes. “Can we take him?” he pleaded. “Please he- he has nowhere to go tonight I just can’t stand the thought of-” 

“We can take him, it’ll be okay.” 

***

Later on in the night, they were still waiting on news about Wooyoung. Mingi had fallen back asleep while San entertained himself with Seonghwa’s rings. Seonghwa himself was just about to fall asleep when a doctor came out calling for those there for Wooyoung. Yeosang and Hongjoong went to the doctor while Seonghwa stayed back with the kids. He watched as they chatted for a while then made their way back over. 

“What’s the news?” Seonghwa spoke shifting San so that he was lying against his chest. 

“They put Wooyoung’s arm in a cast and prescribed him some pain medicine along with fever reducers for his sickness. A nurse will bring him out in a sec and you’ll have to sign the discharge papers since you’re taking him.” Yeosang explained. Right as he finished a nurse walked into the waiting room holding Wooyoung’s uninjured hand. Once Wooyoung spotted Seonghwa he ran as quick as his little legs would take him. 

“Hwa! Hwa!” Wooyoung yelled. He came up trying to climb up on his lap. Seonghwa pulled Wooyoung up onto his lap right next to San. He watched as San reached his hand over to Wooyoung and gently placed it on his head. 

“Woo,” San whispered. “Woo ‘tay?” he asked his father. 

“Yes, Woo stay.” 

Eventually, papers were signed and Yeosang informed the couple that an official investigation will be taking place and that Wooyoung may be staying with them for a while. Hongjoong carried Mingi to the car while Seonghwa had San and Wooyoung. They got them settled and drove home. 

When they arrived, Hongjoong put Mingi and San to bed while Seonghwa took Wooyoung to their own room. Wooyoung whined when he was placed down, but quickly went silent as Seonghwa ran his hand through his hair. Soon Hongjoong came in with a pair of pajamas for Wooyoung and sat on the bed. 

“How do you change a kid’s clothes when they have a broken arm?” Hongjoong whispered, seeing that Wooyoung was on the verge of falling asleep. 

“Carefully? I guess,” Seonghwa began to gently change Wooyoung out of the wet clothes he still had on from earlier. Seonghwa pauses his movements. 

“Hongjoong look,” he says as he points to bruises on Wooyoung’s stomach. “Take a picture and send it to Yeosang.” he asked. He quickly finished when Wooyoung softly whined. “I’m sorry baby, I’m almost done,” 

He finishes and picks Wooyoung up when he starts to whine even louder. “What’s wrong Woo?” Hongjoong asks coming up behind Seonghwa and Woo. 

“Hurts,” he whispered as he dug his head into the crook of Seonghwa’s neck. “Appa mad,” 

The couple made eye contact, confusion running through both of them. “Why is Appa mad?” Hongjoong asked. 

“Woo run ‘way” 

“Why’d you run Woo?” Seonghwa inquired, although he already knew the answer. 

Wooyoung shifted in his arms, mumbling something under his breath. “Speak up sweetheart,” 

Tears started welling in his eyes as he played the memories back of what his father did. “Appa hurt Woo bad, no like” he cried. Wooyoung’s breath began to pick up and his heart felt like it was going to cave in. He started to struggle in the arms of Seonghwa, pushing at him with his good arm. His pleas to be let go rang through the air. All that was running through Wooyoung’s mind was that he was selfish because of course, no one likes clingy boys, why did he have to hug Seonghwa so much? His father’s words from earlier in the day struck as hard as his hands. You’re a waste of space. No one, not even that silly teacher of yours is gonna love you. You should’ve died when you were born. All Wooyoung did was try to get something to eat and it resulted in a broken arm. He couldn’t help that his tummy felt nauseous due to the fact he hadn’t eaten in a couple of days straight. He didn’t notice that he was out of Seonghwa’s arms until he felt the softness of the bed under him. He reached up and felt the pillows surrounding him and he reached over and felt the warmth of a hand beside him. Opening his eyes, he turned to see Hongjoong sitting on the floor with one hand on the bed. His breath stuttered as he looked around the rest of the room. Seonghwa was nowhere in sight. 

“You’re okay baby, you’re safe now,” whispered Hongjoong. “Can I touch you?” 

Nodding, Wooyoung watched as Hongjoong slowly moved his hand to his head and began running his fingers through it. 

“Hwa?” he trembled. 

“He’ll be right back, he went to grab you some water,” Hongjoong had managed to maneuver himself onto the bed and pulled Woo into his arms. He gently rocked him back and forth after seeing him yawn one too many times. About five minutes had passed when Seonghwa finally made his way back into the bedroom but at that point, Wooyoung had already fallen asleep out of pure exhaustion. Seonghwa set the cup of water down by the bed and joined the ones who were already on it. Letting out a sigh he placed his hand on Hongjoong’s and leaned into him. “Him admitting to the fact that his own parent hurt him can somehow expedite the case right?” Hongjoong spoke. 

“I hope so. I don’t want those bastards to ever get their hands on him again.” 

“They won’t. Yeosang will make sure of that,” Hongjoong hoped. He looked down at the sleeping boy in his arms, thinking how anyone could ever hurt someone else, let alone a child. 

At that moment both Seonghwa and Hongjoong swore that they would do everything in their power to make sure Wooyoung is safe.

Chapter Text

Wooyoung found himself in a magical world filled with vibrant colors and warmth. He was no longer in his cold, dark reality but surrounded by love and happiness.

Suddenly, he saw Seonghwa, whom he had come to adore like a father figure, standing with open arms, a gentle smile on his face. "Wooyoung," Seonghwa called out softly, beckoning him closer.

With a joyful giggle, Wooyoung ran into Seonghwa's embrace, feeling a sense of safety and comfort he had never known before. Seonghwa's strong arms wrapped around him, providing the warmth and security he had always craved.

As Wooyoung nestled in Seonghwa's loving embrace, he heard another familiar voice approaching. It was Hongjoong, who had become a father figure to him as well. Hongjoong knelt beside them, extending his arms to include Wooyoung in a warm family hug.

"Hello, little one," Hongjoong whispered affectionately. "We love you so much."

Wooyoung's heart swelled with joy as he looked between Seonghwa and Hongjoong, the two people who had become the family he had desperately longed for. In this dream world, he felt cherished, protected, and deeply loved.

Together, the three of them embarked on various adventures in their dream world, playing games, exploring fantastical landscapes, and sharing endless laughter. Wooyoung couldn't help but smile as he realized that he had found the family he had always wished for.

***

Light began to peek through the bedroom indicating that it was now a new day. It cast over the sleeping faces of Wooyoung, Hongjoong, and Seonghwa, the three of them scattered all across the bed. It was peaceful until it wasn't. San and Mingi came bursting through the door jumping on the bed, startling Wooyoung out of his sleep. 

“Appa we‘re hungry,” San whined, pouncing on top of Seonghwa causing him to fully wake up. San pushed his tiny little hands on Seonghwa’s face, poking and prodding at whatever he could to get his attention. 

Gently grabbing the four year old’s hands, Seonghwa pulled San into him cuddling him to keep him still. “Okay, okay let’s go get ready and make something to eat,” 

“Pan’kes?” Mingi whispered, leaning against Hongjoong, not as hyper as his brother. Seonghwa brushed Mingi’s hair out of his eyes and smiled. 

“Sure, that sounds like a great idea,” said Seonghwa, now that he was sitting up in bed. A small sneeze erupted in the silence that had followed. He gazed down at Wooyoung who was curled up in a ball between the couple. He had a pink tint to his cheeks and his nose was a little runny. Seonghwa placed the hand that wasn’t holding San on Wooyoung’s forehead. “He’s feeling really warm,” 

“You take San and Mingi, I help with Wooyoung,” Hongjoong spoke, passing Mingi to Seonghwa and bringing Woo into his own arms. 

Nodding, Seonghwa gathered the boys in his arms and left the bedroom to get them ready and make breakfast. Hongjoong could hear their voices fade through the hallway as he looked down at Wooyoung. 

“First things first, bath and new clothes,” he whispered. 

***

Getting both boys cleaned and dressed at the same time was a struggle. San wouldn’t stop moving around in the bath, causing water to splash onto Seonghwa and the floor. Mingi refused to get out of the bath even though his fingers and toes were turning into prunes. Once Seonghwa got them both got them dressed was another challenge because, for some unknown reason, San decided to run around the house, refusing to put on clothes, claiming he wanted to “be free”. It took another fifteen minutes to convince him that he needed to at least put on underwear and some socks. So when Hongjoong walked into the kitchen carrying a freshly clean and dressed Wooyoung, Seonghwa sighed. 

“He’s not wearing clothes today?” Hongjoong chuckled, looking at his eldest son who was happily ripping apart the pancakes that were towered on his plate. Hongjoong chose to ignore the syrup running down his chin. Mingi on the other hand took his time, Mingi had exactly two and a half pancakes, they were cut into bite-sized pieces and he had a separate bowl for syrup to dip them in. 

Seonghwa walked around the kitchen counter carrying a plate for Wooyoung. His pancakes were cut into bite-sized pieces just like Mingi’s, “I was fighting for my life Joong, I swear,” He placed the plate down on the table and took Wooyoung out of Hongjoong’s arms. 

Wooyoung glanced up at Seonghwa and Hongjoong who had sat across him with their own plates, his eyes wary and filled with mistrust. He shook his head, a small voice whispering, "No trouble?”

Seonghwa's heart broke at the statement. He couldn't fathom the neglect Wooyoung had endured. "No one's going to get mad at you for eating. It's okay. We want you to be healthy and happy."

Wooyoung eyed the food with uncertainty, his stomach audibly growling. Seonghwa decided to lead by example, picking up a bite of his own pancake, and taking a small, deliberate bite. He smiled reassuringly at Wooyoung before offering the fork to him.

"It's good, see? And I promise, you won't get in trouble for eating. In fact, it'll make you feel much better," Seonghwa encouraged.

Wooyoung hesitated for a moment before tentatively accepting the fork. As he tasted the nourishment, a mix of relief and surprise crossed his face. Slowly but surely, he began to eat, the fear of punishment gradually giving way to the warmth of a caring hand and the taste of a simple meal.

Seonghwa watched with a soft smile, glad to see Wooyoung starting to regain a sense of security.

After a while, everyone had finished their meals. Mingi being the big boy he is, had offered to help his papa carry all the dirty dishes to the kitchen while San had run off to the living room demanding to watch his favorite cartoon, Bluey. 

“One second Sannie,” Seonghwa had called out after the fifth time of his son calling his name. He walked around the table and kneeled in front of Wooyoung offering his hand to him. “Do you want to come watch cartoons too Woo?” 

“ ’Toons?” Woo whispered. All Wooyoung knew about cartoons was that they were on that big thing you called a TV. He had never been allowed to be near a TV before. But what he was quickly learning was that in this house, he was allowed to eat a real meal, sleep in a real bed, and even wear different clothes so he assumed that it would be okay to watch cartoons too. He grabbed Seonghwa’s hand and let him lead the way to the living room, where San sat on a bean bag, chewing the remote. 

“Sannie baby, what did Is ay about eating the remote?” Seonghwa chided as he took the remote out of San’s mouth. 

San sighed “Don’t eat,” 

“Right, it’s not edible silly,” he laughed as he sat on the couch, pulling Wooyoung onto his lap. He turned the TV on, navigated to disney+, and quickly found Bluey.  As the intro played, Wooyoung stared at San who sang loudly along to the theme song, he watched as Hongjoong came in carrying Mingi and some cough medicine. Mingi squirmed in Hongjoong’s hold demanding to be put down so he could sit with his brother. 

Hongjoong sat on the couch next to Seonghwa, turning Woo to face him. 

“I’m going to give you some medicine now Woo okay? To help make you feel better,” Hongjoong smiled.  He measured the cough syrup and gave it to Wooyoung, laughing softly at the face the child made. He set the medicine on the table and leaned back into the couch, pulling Seonghwa into him. The family sat in bliss, binge-watching Bluey, eventually changing the show to another cartoon. It was nice, for a while it let Hongjoong and Seonghwa forget about the situation with Wooyoung. 

That is until Seonghwa’s phone lit up with a call from Yeosang.

Chapter Text

Seonghwa excused himself from the living room, handing Wooyoung to Hongjoong who whined as he shifted. “I’ll be right back woo,”
Wondering into their hallway, he answered the phone with haste, preparing himself for whatever Yeosang had to say.

“Hey Sangie,” Seonghwa sighed, leaning against the wall.

“Hey, so regarding Wooyoung’s case, because we had filed for removal of the child, the court requires a preliminary hearing within the next 24 hours to decide whether or not the reports are true and if Wooyoung should remain in your care or go back with his parents,” informed Yeosang.

“What more do they need to decide if it’s true? His arm is broken for goodness sake!”

“-Hwa, I know but that’s just how it works. If the judge authorizes the petition from CPS, his parents will have the choice to enter a plea or go to trial. From there if there is substantial evidence is present then another trial will be held. Hypothetically speaking, in best case scenario the parent's rights will be terminated,”

Taking a breather, Seonghwa ran his hand down his face. He knows that’s how it works but it still frustrates him. “When is the hearing?”

“Give me one second let me check,” Shuffling and other noises could be heard in the background. “Tomorrow actually, at 3,”

“Does Wooyoung need to be there?”

“No which is the good part, you already sent me pictures of his injuries. If you happen to have anything else you might think could be useful I need it. You however are required to be there seeing as you’re his teacher and temporary guardian,”

“Okay, was that all?”

“Yes, for now, I’ll see you tomorrow Hwa.”

Seonghwa hung up, and sat on the floor, back against the wall. This whole situation was only going to get messier starting tomorrow and he was glad that Wooyoung wouldn’t be subjected to face his parents again anytime soon. As he leaned his head against the wall, he heard small footsteps approach him, gathering himself he turned to look at which one of his kids came to see him.

“Sannie baby, what’s wrong?” He immediately perked up, seeing his oldest toddle towards him, picking with his fingers. He reached out with open arms, letting San collapse in his arms.

“Appa?” San whispered against his chest, now fiddling with Seonghwa’s shirt instead.

Running his hands through San’s hair, thinking he needed to cut it soon, he responded “What is it bub?”

“I miss you,”

Pausing, he gently pulled San away from his chest to look his baby in the eyes. “What do you mean baby?”

San hesitated to respond, looking away from his father's eyes. “Appa has’t been here,”

“I’m not quite sure what you mean Sannie,”
San sniffled attempting to keep his tears at bay, “Appa here but not with me,” he cried quietly. The four-year-old didn’t know how to get his point across, all the words he knew and none could describe how he was feeling. Yes, Seonghwa has been there, he sees his Appa all the time, but San had been feeling left out, almost. Like his father hadn’t been paying attention to him, all his attention has been on Wooyoung. San knew Woo was hurt but he didn’t understand the extent. Wooyoung isn’t even their kid for god’s sake so why was he getting more attention than him?
It seemed as if Seonghwa had caught on to what San was trying to express and he felt his heart break a little more.

“Oh baby, you must be feeling a little lonely huh?” He sighed pulling him into his chest, gently rocking him back and forth. Feeling San nod against his chest, he pulled him even tighter.

“Appa still lo’v me?”

Seonghwa couldn’t keep his tears in anymore, he let one fall, and soon more came. “Of course, I still love you baby. I never stopped loving you. You are so precious to me,” his voice broke. “I’m so sorry you’ve been feeling that way but I am so proud of you for telling me, I swear I’ll make it up to you bub,”
San lifted his head from Seonghwa’s chest and reached up to wipe a tear from his appa’s eyes. He leaned back into his embrace and let himself be rocked. Soon enough, Seonghwa noticed San had fallen asleep in his arms, he gently got up and carried him to his room to put him down for a nap. Once he settled San in bed, he went back out to the living room, quietly chuckling at the sight. On the couch, Hongjoong lay with both Mingi and Wooyoung on top of him. All three were peacefully asleep. Seonghwa turned off the tv and decided to take a nap himself, because why not?

***
Seonghwa nervously sat inside the courtroom next to Yeosang. The hearing was about to start and this was the first time Seonghwa would be seeing Wooyoung’s parents since the one night they forgot to pick him up from school. He took a deep breath when he saw the couple enter the courtroom escorted by police. Wooyoung’s father shot him a glare as if he was trying to scare him. As the hearing proceeded it was soon time for Seonghwa to take the stand, determined to shed light on the troubling reality that Wooyoung had been facing. His voice resonated with a mix of concern and determination as he recounted the numerous instances of witnessing Wooyoung's distressing behavior.

Seonghwa described how he consistently found Wooyoung alone outside of school hours, well before classes commenced, indicating a troubled home life. With a heavy heart, he detailed the unexplained bruises that adorned Wooyoung's small frame, evidence of potential abuse. Seonghwa painted a vivid picture of the four-year-old's demeanor under his temporary care, illustrating the child's fear and anxiety through his actions and words. The most haunting revelation came as Seonghwa courageously spoke about Wooyoung's mention of "monsters," leaving the courtroom in a chilling silence that underscored the urgency of addressing the issues plaguing Wooyoung's life.

As the courtroom tension thickened, Wooyoung's father, unable to contain his emotions, lost his composure. His face contorted with anger, and a sudden eruption of frustration echoed through the courtroom as he directed his rage towards Seonghwa on the stand. Yelling in a tumultuous outburst, he accused Seonghwa of meddling in their family affairs and fabricating stories to tarnish their reputation. The air in the courtroom grew heavy with the weight of the confrontation, and the judge sternly called for order. Despite the chaos, Seonghwa remained composed, maintaining his commitment to bringing the truth to light, while the father's outburst served as an unsettling reminder of the tumultuous circumstances surrounding Wooyoung's upbringing.

After everything was under control again, the hearing continued without any interruptions. After careful consideration of the presented evidence and the emotionally charged courtroom atmosphere, the judge, with a measured gravity in their voice, rendered a decision that would alter the course of Wooyoung's life. Citing the significant and alarming evidence of child abuse, the judge ruled that, in the best interest of the child, Wooyoung would remain under the care of Seonghwa and Hongjoong until further legal proceedings could be conducted. The pronouncement rippled through the courtroom, evoking both relief and tension. Wooyoung's parents were given the opportunity to enter a plea or proceed to trial, acknowledging the gravity of the accusations against them. As the weight of the decision settled, it became apparent that the legal battle for Wooyoung's well-being was only beginning, and the courtroom remained charged with an air of uncertainty about the family's future.
In the aftermath of the judge's decision, Wooyoung's parents chose to enter a plea, acknowledging the gravity of the accusations leveled against them.

The weight of the charges seemed to hang heavily in the air as they stood before the court. The courtroom, which had previously been filled with the echoes of emotional outbursts, had now shifted its focus to the legal proceedings that would determine Wooyoung's custody fate. Wooyoung's parents, flanked by their legal counsel, faced the sobering reality that their choices and actions were being scrutinized.

Seonghwa’s heart skipped a beat when he realized what that meant. The courtroom braced for a critical juncture in Wooyoung's custody case as the legal proceedings advanced to a dispositional hearing. After meticulously reviewing the evidence and considering the child's welfare, the judge made a solemn decision that sent ripples of significance throughout the room. With a heavy heart, the judge ruled that Wooyoung's parents' parental rights would be terminated, recognizing the gravity of the evidence presented and the critical importance of protecting the child's well-being. The mood in the courtroom changed, tinged with sadness and hope.
Seonghwa released a breath he didn’t know he was holding and maybe a tear or two. Wooyoung was finally free from those monsters that were his parents. Seonghwa had tuned out the yells of the couple as he turned to Yeosang and gave him a hug.

“Does that mean Wooyoung is technically up for adoption now?” Seonghwa asked.
“Technically yes, it’ll take a couple of days for him to go into the system but once that happens you can apply for adoption if that's what you want,” Yeosang smiled.

“I’ll talk to Hongjoong, but yes, that’s what I want. I want him to be mine,”

“I’m sure he will be.”

Chapter Text

Seonghwa and Hongjoong sat in their dimly lit kitchen well after the kids went to bed. Getting them ready for bed was just as much of a hassle as getting them ready in the morning. Wooyoung went to bed putting up a fight, he was cranky and sick, and the medicine Hongjoong had given him had yet to kick in. Many belly rubs later, Wooyoung finally fell asleep.
Sipping on their wine, they get to indulge in once in a while, they sat in silence. Seonghwa was sitting up on the counter, whereas Hongjoong rested between his legs. Hongjoong sat his glass down and moved to wrap his arms around Seonghwa’s waist. Sighing into his lover's body, he softly smiled as Seonghwa ran his unoccupied hand through Hongjoong’s brown fluffy hair.
“My love,” Seonghwa broke the silence, looking down at Hongjoong.

“Yes, Hwa?”

“I’ve been wanting to talk to you about something,” he sighed.

Hongjoong shifted his body so that now only his hands were resting on Seonghwa’s waist so that he could fully look him in the eyes. “It’s about Wooyoung isn’t it?” he assumed. He knew this talk would come sooner or later, especially after the court case.

Nodding, Seonghwa softly smiled. “Would it be crazy for me to say I think I want another child?”

“Not at all love,”

“I-” Seonghwa paused. He knew Hongjoong would be open and receptive to everything he had to say but the nerves were still there. “I think Wooyoung would be a great addition to this family. I’ve gotten so close to him, I just can’t let him go yet,” he whispered. Very quickly Wooyoung had made his way into Seonghwa’s heart.

“I think adding a new edition so soon would be a little chaotic, we would have to figure some things out but just having Woo here for a short time, I can’t imagine him anywhere else. That baby deserves the world and I know we can give it to him,” Hongjoong also fell victim to Wooyoung, the overwhelming amount of love Wooyoung radiated reminds him of Seonghwa. With one look in that little boy’s eyes, he knew he would not give up on him.

“Can we adopt him?”

Hongjoong chuckled, leaning up to kiss Seonghwa “I would be concerned if we didn’t,” he brushed stray hairs out of his eyes. “He’s ours.”

The couple shared a couple more kisses, feeling the wine take effect. Soon enough Seonghwa found himself falling into bed, pulling Hongjoong on top of him.

***
In the quiet hours of the night, Mingi had been startled awake by faint crying coming from his brother's room. He grabbed his bear and toddled across the hall, following the noises. He gently pushed the door open and walked in using the nightlight plugged into the wall as a guide. Wooyoung had been sleeping in San’s room for the night, so when he saw the boy on the opposite side of the bed, tossing and turning he wasn’t too surprised. But what surprised him was the sour smell and sight of vomit that surrounded Wooyoung. Although Woo was still asleep, he had tears running down his eyes, mixing with the mess beneath him.
Mingi quickly went over to the other side of the bed where San was, “Sannie!” he panickly whispered. “Sannie wake up!”

San mumbled as he turned over to face his younger brother. “Wat?”

“Woo is sick!”

San sat up and peered at the end of the bed, gazing at the youngest. His little eyes widened as he saw Wooyoung covered in his own sickness. He turned back to Mingi in a rush “You s’tay I’ll go get appa and papa,” he said as he quickly got out of bed. Running through the halls he burst into his parents, attempting to climb on the bed. “Appa! Papa! He’lp”

Hongjoong stirred in his sleep, blinding reaching out for his phone to check the time. He groaned as he picked his frantic child up to try to get him to calm down enough to tell him what was wrong. “San baby what is going on? It’s three am,” saying that as if this child had any concept of time for real.

“Woo! He threwed up!”

That was enough to wipe out any tiredness that remained. “Oh-Oh okay, uh-shit” he exclaimed. Placing San back on the ground he flipped the covers off him, trying to get to Wooyoung as quick as he can.

“Papa-you don’t ha’ve pants on,” San giggled. Looking down at himself, he yelped yanking the comforter off the bed to cover himself. In doing so, he woke Seonghwa who glared at him.

“What the actual hell are you doing?” Seonghwa exclaimed before getting out of bed himself.

“Wait Hwa! Child! There's a child!” he pointed.

Yelping himself, Seonghwa sat right back down in bed, where San couldn’t see him. “Sannie? What are you doing up this late? Early?”

“Woo threw up,” Hongjoong answered for him. He somehow managed to put on pants and pick their eldest up, he sat him on the bed. “Stay with appa, I’ll go check on Wooyoung.” Once San responded he hurriedly rushed to San's room and gasped. Wooyoung looked worse than he thought. Wooyoung’s fever had spiked, and he was visibly shaking. He gently shook Wooyoung awake and when their eyes met, Hongjoong felt his heart break.

Wooyoung reached his arms out to Hongjoong, tears streaming down his face. As much as Hongjoong wanted to take Wooyung into his arms, he had vomit all over him, Hongjoong held him at an arms length distance but Woo obviously did not like that, as he started screaming and kicking.

“Fuck it,” Hongjoong mumbled and pulled him into his chest, standing up with him. Wooyoung continued to loudly sob into Hongjoong’s neck. He caught glimpse of something move out the corner of his eye, releasing a breath of relief, he watched as Seonghwa rushed in, and urge Mingi to go to their room where San was. Once Mingi was gone, he came up to the pair.

“I heard him screaming what is going on?”

Bouncing Wooyoung up and down, he turned to his husband “He’s covered in his own sickness, and he’s burning up Hwa,” He watched Seonghwa gather new clothes for him and motion to follow him to the bathroom. Hongjoong undressed Wooyoung as Seonghwa wet a towel under the sink. Working together as fast as they can, they got Woo cleaned up and settled a bit. Wooyoung continued to lay in Hongjoong’s arm’s sniffling while Seonghwa prepared some more medicine and a cold towel to place on the back of his neck.

“What is it baby?” Hongjoong asked as Wooyoung began to squirm in his arms. He had psuehd himself off Hongjoong’s chest as he turned to face Seonghwa.

Whining, he reached his arms out towards Seonghwa begging to be picked up “Appa.” Both Hongjoong and Seonghwa froze in place. Tears had lined Seonghwa’s eyes. It was like time had stopped. It wasn’t until Wooyoung had whined even louder, and he started crying again that the unfroze. “Appa!”

Quickly taking Woo into his arms, he shushed him, planting a kiss on his warm forehead. “Appa is right here baby. I’m right here and I’m never letting you go.”

Chapter Text

Wooyoung remained attached to Seonghwa for the rest of the night, refusing to let go. After Hongjoong got San and Mingi back in bed and settled, he sleepily wandered back into his own bedroom and softly smiled as his eyes fell upon Seonghwa who was fast asleep, and Wooyoung who was sitting up on Hongjoong’s side of the bed, quietly playing with Seonghwa’s sleeve. Hongjoong shuffled over to his side of the bed, lifting Wooyoung up and placing him in his lap as he slid into his spot.
“Appa fell asleep on you baby?” He chuckled, kissing Wooyoung on his forehead. Nodding, Wooyoung let out a cough and snuggled up against Hongjoong's neck. Hongjoong yawned and shifted to lie down, pulling Wooyoung along with him. “Aren’t you tiredyet?”
Wooyoung shook his head, pushing himself off of Hongjoong’s chest to look him in the eyes.

“Papa tired?” Woo whispered, hands coming up to play with the man’s t-shirt. Oblivious to the uproar of emotion he just caused to go through Hongjoong. He pulled Wooyoung closer to him and placed butterfly kisses all over the boy's face.

Hongjoong wetly chuckled, trying to hold back the tears in his eyes. “Yeah, I guess so baby,” he smiled as Wooyoung reciprocated the kisses. “Let’s both go to sleep,”

“ ‘kay”

Both of them settled comfortably in bed, snuggling up close to Seonghwa, falling asleep almost immediately. Hongjoong's heart swelled with love and gratitude for his little family nestled together. The warmth of their bodies and the soft rhythm of their breathing brought him a sense of peace he hadn't felt in a long time. With a contented sigh, he closed his eyes, feeling grateful for moments like these amidst life's chaos.

***
Eventually, Wooyoung got over his cold, and everything was almost back to normal. The family of five cherished the tranquil moments spent together. Whether it was a lazy Sunday afternoon spent playing board games, or cozy evenings curled up on the couch watching their favorite movies, their home was always filled with warmth and laughter.

San and Mingi grew more comfortable each day that Wooyoung spent with them, understanding that his presence would soon be permanent. They showered him with affection and looked out for him in their own special ways. They took pride in teaching him new things, from how to tie his shoes to the rules of their favorite games. Wooyoung, in turn, looked up to them, not used to the kindness of kids his age. He felt nothing but admiration and affection, finding comfort and security in their bond.

As the final legal process to adopt Wooyoung approached, Seonghwa and Hongjoong cherished these precious moments even more. Confident in the fact that Wooyoung will soon be theirs.

Friday afternoon, partly cloudy but warm enough for Hongjoong to take the boys to the park, he watched as they ran free playing their made-up games, he swore he heard San yell something about imaginary pirates. But back at home, Seonghwa paced anxiously in the living room, his mind racing with worry over the adoption process for Wooyoung. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. He hurried to answer it, finding Yeosang standing on the doorstep with a grave expression.

"Yeosang, what's wrong?" Seonghwa asked, his heart sinking at the solemn look on his friend's face.

"Seonghwa, I'm sorry to bring you troubling news," Yeosang began, his voice filled with concern. "I just got off the phone with our lawyer, and there's been a setback in the adoption process for Wooyoung."

Seonghwa's stomach churned with apprehension as he listened to Yeosang's words. "What kind of setback?" he asked, trying to steady his voice despite the rising panic within him.

"It seems that some distant family members of Wooyoung have come forward, threatening to fight for custody," Yeosang explained, his expression grim.

Seonghwa's heart sank at the news, his mind flooded with a whirlwind of emotions. "But... but we've been caring for Wooyoung for so long," he said, his voice tinged with disbelief. "Surely they can't just swoop in like this and take him away from us. Do they have a legitimate claim? What are our options?"

Yeosang nodded sympathetically, placing a comforting hand on Seonghwa's shoulder. "I know, Seonghwa. Legally, we have a strong case for adoption, given the stable and loving home you've provided for Wooyoung. However, we may need to prepare for a legal battle."

Seonghwa's mind raced as he tried to process the implications of Yeosang's words. The thought of facing off against distant relatives in court filled him with dread.

“We’ve come so far, it’s been almost an entire year they don’t just get to show up now It’s not fair!” Seonghwa seethed. “Where were they when he needed help?” he broke. The thought of losing Wooyoung right when they almost had him weighed on his mind heavily.

“I know but we can’t just outright deny them Hwa,”

Seonghwa sunk into the couch that he somehow ended up on. Shaking his head, he whispered because he knew if he said it any louder his voice would crack, “It’s not fair,”

After speaking with Yeosang a little more, he left to allow the news to sink in. Seonghwa didn’t know how long he spent on the couch, he didn’t even move when he heard the front door open and the patters of little feet running towards him.

“We’re home!” Hongjoong laughed as he saw the boy scramble on top of Seonghwa. He gently smiled as he watched his husband lift all three of the kids onto the couch and settle into a comfortable position.

“How was the park?” Seonghwa smiled, kissing each kid on the forehead. He held that smile as Mingi and San went on a rant for almost ten minutes about the games and everything else they did at the park. He didn’t mean to, but he spaced out again during their rant, only coming back when he felt a warm hand on his back.

"Boys, why don’t you go pick out your pajamas for tonight? Appa and I will come to help with baths," Hongjoong suggested, his keen eye-catching the somber aura around Seonghwa. Without delay, the kids dashed off to their shared bedroom, their voices still echoing with the day's adventures.

Sinking onto the couch, Hongjoong gently pulled Seonghwa onto his lap, concern etched into his features. "What's troubling you, my love?"

Seonghwa's voice trembled slightly as he confessed, "The adoption process has hit a snag."

Hongjoong's heart skipped a beat. "What do you mean?"

"Some distant family has surfaced, expressing a desire to contest custody of Woo," Seonghwa explained, his anguish palpable.

"Can they really do that?" Hongjoong's disbelief mirrored Seonghwa's own.

"I asked Yeosang the same question. It seems they can, and they're taking steps to do so," Seonghwa lamented, tears now streaming down his face as the harsh reality settled in. "I can't bear the thought of losing—"

"It won't happen," Hongjoong interjected firmly, his voice brimming with determination. "Wooyoung already sees us as his parents. We'll fight this and win the case."

“I don’t want to lose him,”

“We won’t love, we won’t,” Hongjoong reassured. He held Seonghwa as he continued to cry until he heard the voices of their kids calling out. “Come on, we have some stinky kids that need baths,” He chuckled as he pushed Hwa up and down the hall, trying to set aside the news they received.

Chapter Text

They had hoped to the universe that they wouldn’t have to go through another legal battle but luck didn’t seem to be on their side. Eventually, it all caught up to them.

The sterile ambiance of the courtroom heightened Seonghwa's anxiety. He sat beside Hongjoong, their fingers intertwined for mutual support, while across from them, the distant relatives of Wooyoung conferred with their lawyer. Yeosang, their lawyer, leaned in and whispered, "Remember, just stay calm and answer the questions honestly. We have a strong case."

The judge, a stern woman with an air of authority, called the session to order. "We are here today to address the custody petition filed by Mr. and Mrs. Park against the existing adoption petition by Mr. Park and Mr. Kim."

Seonghwa swallowed hard, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on him. The opposing lawyer stood up, beginning their argument with a polished, rehearsed speech about biological ties and the importance of family bonds. It was hard for Seonghwa to keep his anger in check as they spoke, painting a picture of concerned relatives who only wanted the best for Wooyoung.

When it was Yeosang's turn, he presented a heartfelt narrative of the loving home Seonghwa and Hongjoong had provided for Wooyoung. He emphasized the emotional stability, the nurturing environment, and the undeniable bond formed over the past year.

"Mr. Park," the judge addressed him, her gaze piercing through his anxiety. "Please explain to the court the circumstances under which Wooyoung came into your care and why you believe continuing this adoption is in his best interest."

Taking a deep breath, Seonghwa stood up, his voice trembling initially but growing steadier with each word. "Your Honor, Wooyoung was placed in our care after his biological parents could no longer provide for him. Before that, I was his teacher. I saw firsthand the challenges he faced and the resilience he showed. From the moment he entered our home, he became our son. We've nurtured him, celebrated his milestones, and soothed his fears. He calls us Appa and Papa. We are his family. Taking him away now would be devastating for him. We love him deeply and only want what’s best for him."

Hongjoong added, "We've created a stable, loving home for him. He has two brothers who adore him and a routine that keeps him happy and healthy. Wooyoung's best interest lies in staying with the family he knows and loves."

The judge nodded, her expression inscrutable. "Thank you. I'll now hear from the petitioners."

One of Wooyoung's relatives, a woman in her late forties, stood up. Her voice was calm but determined. "We are Wooyoung's blood relatives. It's only right that he be with his family. We weren't aware of his situation until recently, but now that we know, we want to bring him into our home. We can provide for him just as well, if not better."

Seonghwa's heart pounded as he listened, the fear of losing Wooyoung looming large.

After several more exchanges, the judge called for a recess. "We will reconvene after a short break. All parties, please remain available."

Seonghwa and Hongjoong stepped out of the courtroom, taking a moment to breathe in the hallway. Wooyoung's relatives were nearby, their expressions unreadable.

"I can't believe this is happening," Seonghwa whispered, leaning into Hongjoong for support.

"We'll get through this," Hongjoong replied, his voice steady despite the turmoil inside. "Wooyoung is our son. The truth of our love for him will shine through."

As they stood there, Yeosang approached, offering a reassuring smile. "You're doing great. Stay strong. We have a solid case, and the judge seems fair."

The call back to the courtroom came sooner than expected. As everyone took their seats, the judge returned, her face giving nothing away.

"After reviewing the evidence and hearing from both sides, I have made my decision," she began. The tension in the room was palpable, every second stretching into eternity.

"It is clear that both parties care deeply for Wooyoung. However, the primary concern here is the best interest of the child, which lies in the stability and continuity of care. Therefore, I rule in favor of maintaining the current adoption process with Mr. Seonghwa and Mr. Hongjoong."

Relief flooded Seonghwa's body, tears springing to his eyes. Hongjoong squeezed his hand tightly, their shared joy immeasurable.

The judge continued, "However, I encourage the biological relatives to maintain a relationship with Wooyoung, should they wish, as long as it is in the child's best interest."

As the judge adjourned the session and Seonghwa and Hongjoong hugged each other tightly, the relief and joy they felt were abruptly shattered by the raised voices of Wooyoung's biological relatives.

"This is an outrage!" the woman who had spoken earlier exclaimed, her face red with anger. "You can't just take him from us! We're his real family!"

Another relative, a middle-aged man, joined in, pointing an accusing finger at Seonghwa and Hongjoong. "This is a sham! You manipulated the system! Wooyoung belongs with his blood relatives, not strangers!"

The tension in the room skyrocketed as the relatives' accusations grew louder. "This isn't over," another relative shouted. "We'll fight this decision with everything we've got! You're not taking him away from us!"

Seonghwa felt a surge of protective anger. He tightened his grip on Hongjoong's hand, trying to stay composed. Hongjoong stepped forward, his voice calm but firm. "We understand your emotions, but the court has made its decision based on what’s best for Wooyoung. This isn't about us versus you; it's about him and his well-being."

"Best for him?" the woman spat, her eyes blazing with fury. "You think you know what's best for him? You’re nothing but strangers who played the system!"

"You're not even a real family," the middle-aged man sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "Two men raising a child? That's not right. Wooyoung needs a proper family, not this... this perversion."

Seonghwa felt his heart clench with a mix of anger and hurt. He opened his mouth to respond, but Hongjoong squeezed his hand, silently urging him to stay calm.

The shouting continued, drawing the attention of court officers who moved to intervene. "Please, calm down," one officer said, stepping between the arguing parties. "The judge has made her ruling. If you wish to contest it, you can file an appeal, but you need to leave the courtroom now."

"Appeal? Oh, we will!" the middle-aged man retorted, his face contorted with rage. "You haven't heard the last of us. We'll fight you tooth and nail!"

Yeosang stood beside Seonghwa and Hongjoong, his expression serious. "Let's go," he said softly, guiding them toward the exit. "We need to get out of here before this escalates further."

As they left the courtroom, the angry voices of Wooyoung's relatives echoed behind them, filled with threats, insults, and promises of retribution. Seonghwa felt a mixture of sadness and relief. The path ahead wouldn't be easy, but he knew they had to stay strong for Wooyoung.

Outside, they took a moment to breathe, the weight of the courtroom drama still heavy on their shoulders. Seonghwa turned to Hongjoong, his voice filled with determination. "We’ll fight if we have to. Wooyoung is our son, and we'll protect him no matter what."

Hongjoong nodded, wrapping an arm around Seonghwa. "Absolutely.”

Chapter Text

a couple months later

“Woo wake up!” a small voice called.

The lump in bed stirred but didn’t rise. “Wooyoung up!” the voice called again. A sigh was heard coming closer to the bed, then all of a sudden Wooyoung felt a body on top of him. He groaned, digging his face further into the sheets.

“What is going on in here?” Seonghwa laughed, walking over to Wooyoung who was still in the sheets and San who was laying on top of him.

“I told him get up and he wouldn’t!” pouted San, pulling the blanket away from the youngest’s face.

“too early,”

Seonghwa smiled, gently lifting San off and into his arms. “Woo baby, it’s your big day today you gotta get up,”

San snuggled into his appa, playing with the collar of his dress shirt. “Yeah Woo! It’s your ‘doption day,”

“Adoption,”

“Adoption!”

Wooyoung sat up with those words. He looked up meeting the eyes of Seonghwa and San. “ ‘kay we go get ready now.” He said firmly. Seonghwa simply laughed and helped Wooyoung out of bed.

They moved through their morning routine effortlessly, Seonghwa getting both Wooyoung and San dressed while Hongjoong was tasked with Mingi. Soon enough everyone was dressed in semi-casual clothing and were heading out the door to the courthouse. The ride there was filled with gentle laughter from the preschoolers, excited for Wooyoung to finally become apart of their family.

“We’ve come really far,” Hongjoong sighed as he glanced in the rear view mirror at the boys.

Seonghwa smiled at his husband. “We have, he’ll finally be ours,”

As they arrive at the courthouse, the boys clung to their parents hands as the were lead through the halls. Wooyoung held Seonghwa’s hand tightly, his small fingers trembling with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

In the courtroom, Seonghwa and Hongjoong exchanged a reassuring glance as the judge entered. The formalities began, but Wooyoung’s attention was on the supportive smiles from his parents, who were sitting close beside him.

The judge looked at Wooyoung, a gentle smile on her face. "Wooyoung, today we're going to make it official. You will have a family who loves you very much. How do you feel about that?"

Wooyoung nodded shyly, then whispered, "Happy."

Seonghwa squeezed his hand, tears brimming in his eyes as the judge continued, "By the power vested in me, I officially recognize Wooyoung as the son of Seonghwa and Hongjoong."

The room erupted in quiet, emotional applause as the gavel came down. It was as if time had slowed down when Wooyoung leaped into Seonghwa’s arms, holding onto him as if he never wanted to let go. Hongjoong enveloped them both in a warm embrace, with San and Mingi joining in, creating a cocoon of love and security around Wooyoung.

Wooyoung went from being alone with people who couldn’t stand him to being surrounded by people who love him so much. All it took was one person. One person who noticed, one who cared.

With his new family by his side, Wooyoung felt a sense of belonging he’d never known before. The adoption was complete, but their journey as a family was just beginning.