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Chapter Text

Ten took a deep breath as he stood outside the familiar house, feeling a mix of anticipation and nervousness at the thought of seeing Kun again after all these years. As he opened the door and stepped inside, he was immediately greeted by a wave of warm familiarity. The house looked just as he remembered, filled with the same old photographs and trinkets that told the story of Kun's and his childhood. They looked so small, and happy. Decades ago, they were so small back then, simpler times... 

He couldn't help the pang of nostalgia that filled his heart. He'd been here, countless times. Doing homework, having sleepovers, looking for comfort in the middle of breakdowns, birthdays, new years ... He was here as much as he was at his own home. 

"Come in, come in... It's freezing outside" Mrs. Qian's warm welcoming voice hadn't changed either. She hugged him, endearingly. 

"Look at you, all grown up. Gotten taller and more handsome. Even more handsome than on tv" 

Ten smiled softly, and hugged her back. "Thank you ayi. And look at you, right ma? She looks Ten years younger than when I left doesn't she?" 

"Ohh you've grown to be quite the charmer"

"Oh no he is right, jie. You look so much younger" Ten's mother added, hugging her tightly. 

The warm welcomings lead them to the loving dining are, where they all settled. Ten's father and Mr. Qian sat on the couch, catching up on old news they'd missed. Ten's mom and sister joined Mrs. Qian in the kitchen to finish up on the last few dishes. 

"Oh Ten, dear, Kun will be here a bit late. He was attending to this sick mare, you remember the Zhao's yeah? It's their new mare, just gave birth yesterday. He was there all night yesterday too, a difficult one, he said. Just got a call from them two hours ago, he rushed but promised he'll be back before you guys leave. You know how he gets when it's about work..." Mrs. Qian added apologetically. 

Of course he knew. He didn't know whether Kun was a workaholic now or not, he was more of someone with great work ethic. 

"It's alright, ayi, I understand" he reassured and migled around the house, his memories coming back to him slowly. On one hand he was glad Kun wasn't there just yet. He didn't know how to face him, after everything that happened between them.

They had just turned 18 when Ten left this small town. He had always wanted to be a star. One would say he was born to be a star. Kun would say that. Kun used to say that. 

Kun...

They were friends since they were born. Quite literally. They lived closed to each other, their moms each had babysat them, growing up, they played together, went to the same kindergarten, primary school and high school. Well, in this small town, everyone did. In this small town, hardly anyone went out of the town for anything other than getting documents done for something. Everyone knew everyone, everyone's needs were met within the town. Some grew crops, some did fishing and others did trade, while some others raised animals. There were two schools, one hospital, one police station, one railway station. Just the basic. It was a mountainous town, for a good part of the year the mountainous part was covered in snow, and the plateaus were where most people lived. The life here was slow, mundane and peaceful.

But Ten was never cut out for that life. He craved the big city lights, big stages and crowds cheering. And he knew he was good enough to have that. All that. So he chased that dream, he was glad to leave the small monotonous town behind. And he proved himself right. Shortly after auditioning for a talent company, he was recruited to be a trainee. After just a few months of training, he was good enough to debut. He was one of the most talented artist the company had ever seen. He was a versatile dancer, and an exceptional singer. Within a couple of years, he was touring all around the world, his name across stadiums, on TV, all over the internet. Awards shows, variety shows, fashion shows, he was a household name. Ten Lee, the superstar. He made it. It took so much effort, he'd worked tirelessly, but at the end, it was all worth it because he was now, living the life he'd always dreamed of. 

Ten never returned after he left. Instead of visiting family, he had them move to the city with him. It was a sensible move, considering that it was good for Tern's education as well as for his parents' business. His family visited the hometown a few times. Met all the relatives and friends. But Ten never did. He was always busy during new years time, he was singing in new years gala every year, followed by many festivities he was obligated to be at. Not that he minded much, he'd always loved this life. The fast paced, glamours and fun. He was having fun. For so many years. 

------

" Are you coming with us this for new years?" Mrs. Lee asked Ten, even though she already knew the answer. 

"Y'know what ma... I ... I might " 

"You would?!!" Tern almost fell off the chair she was sitting.

"Yeah, I could use some ... Time off" 

"Really? Are you sure?" Mrs. Lee beamed. 

"Yeah... It's ... It's been like eleven years since I've left... I'd... I'd like to see that place again, I haven't had a proper family new years even in eleven years" He said softly. 

"I'll book the tickets right away " his mom said, excitedly.

----- 

"Come on everyone. Dinner's ready" Mrs. Qian's ringing voice brought him back to the present and summoned everyone to the table. It was a feast, if there had ever been one. Ten's mouth watered merely at the sight of the food, the aroma of the spices brought up an appetite he didn't even know he had. 

" Sit sit, please, help yourselves, come... Take more, take more... Oh Ten you have to try this, I made it specially for you" 

The dinner table, as warm as he remembered.

"Is Kun coming back soon?" Ten's father asked halfway through the dinner. 

"He said he's on the way, but that kid.. ah.... Could be any time. He sent his apologies. He wouldn't miss this, if it wasn't life or death. That mare had been feeling really sick after the birth" Mr. Qian explained.

"Ah yeah. I know, I know... I just missed that kid. A good one, he is. I've always told Ten. Thats a good kid" 

The conversation continued. They moved from dinner to dessert, and then the door flew open. 

"I'm sorry, sorry everyone. Sorry I'm late" 

Kun.

It was Kun.

Kun, with messy brown hair, winter's wind bitten his cheeks until pink, lips swollen red with cold, draped in a thick coat and a heavy woolen scarf... Looking as adorable as Ten had remembered. 

"KUN!!!!" Tern almost jumped up, running to greet him. She had always loved him. 

He pulled her into a hug as the rest of the dining table laughed. 

"Tern!! I've missed you so so much" he said, warmly. Rest of the table joined, Kun greeted Mr. and Mrs. Lee politely and turned towards Ten. 

"Welcome back" he said and smiled, Ten could tell that smile didn't reach his eyes. But Ten nodded too, keeping it civil. 

"Come on in son, how have you been now... You father tells me your quite the veterinarian now" Mr. Lee asked , beaming at him.

Kun's presence immediately brightened the table. He was his usual extroverted, social butterfly self, making jokes and laughing along with the conversation. As always. Kun filled everyone in on today's mare rescue, on his life lately, how he now has a clinic, up in the mountains so that it's closer to the farmlands and stables and had enough space for animals. Kun was so excited to talk about animals and how he's able to help them. That's Kun. That's so Kun, Ten thought. 

But what was not so Kun like was the way he was towards Ten. While Kun maintained friendly conversations with everyone in the table, Ten couldn't help but notice how he never directly addressed Ten. He never spoke to Ten. His energy was so bright and warm, hardly anyone else could notice the exclusion, but Ten did. It wasn't outright avoidance, but it was enough for Ten to feel the distance between them. Kun's eyes seemed to glide over him, focusing on others in the room. Ten tried to brush it off, telling himself he was imagining things, but the tightness in his chest told him otherwise.

He knew that seeing Kun again would be difficult, but he didn't expect the emptiness and longing he felt in his chest. It felt like something he had carelessly discarded years ago had suddenly come back to haunt him.He missed the warmth of Kun's smile, the sound of his laughter, the comfort of his presence. He missed the way Kun used to look at him, as if he was the only person in the world that mattered. Now all of that seemed to be replaced with a avoided glaces, customer service-esque smiles and empty generalized greetings. In a way, could he really blame him? 

The night wound down, and eventually, the dinner came to an end. Everyone bid their goodbyes and made their way back home. Kun's parents hugged him, their love for Ten apparent in their cheerful smiles. Kun said goodnight to everyone in general, walked them out, like the gentleman he was. 

---

On the walk back home, Ten was quiet and somber. His mind was filled with conflicting emotions he couldn't decipher- a combination of guilt, longing, regret. His thoughts kept drifting to Kun, wondering what he was thinking, what he was feeling. Was he still angry with him? Did he resent him? Or was there a part of him that still had feelings for him, deep down under the indifference and the cold exterior.

He knew he had hurt Kun when he left, but the thought of Kun disliking him, potentially hating him, filled Ten with a sense of dread he never knew he could feel.

Chapter Text

Ten couldn't sleep that well that night. Was it because the place was unfamiliar, after all those years? Or was it because of the thoughts that haunted him after dinner. Or was it a combination of both? He rolled around the bed for a good fraction of the night, fell asleep for about two three hours, only to be woken up quite early in the morning. He didn't mind that, he'd wanted to take a stroll around the town anyway, before everyone else was out and about. So that he could have some peace and quiet, without a random reporter or a fan coming upto him for a photo. 

He quickly changed into his tracks, making sure to layer up because it was winter and the outside was freezing cold. He set off aimlessly for a bit until he had a craving for coffee. More specifically, coffee from that one coffe shop he used to go all the time when he was a kid. Tang ayi's coffee shop. He detoured and made his way towards the cute coffee shop, which looked like it hadn't changed at all over the years. Tang ayi wasn't there at the cashier, she was usually at the back, making coffee. He hoped she would come out before he left, she used to always give him and Kun extra cookies whenever they came there. Ten smiled to himself at the fond memory of the two of them, in their very own booth. 

" One Americano and a chocolate chip cookie, that's it?" 

He came to his senses at the cashier's voice."ah.. yes. Sorry. That's all" 

"To go or?"

"I'll have it here, please "

"Alright, I'll being it right up, please sit anywhere " 

Ten nodded and scanned the place in one glance. It was almost the same. He walked over to their old booth and sat down. It was the same table. It even had some of the pen marks they'd made while doing homework. Memories flooded him in waves. 

He sighed as he took the first sip of his coffee, the taste of nostalgia filling his senses. Memories of him and Kun sitting together in this very spot, sharing secrets and dreams, filled his mind. He ached for those times, when things were simpler, and nothing was tarnished by time or distance or complexities of adulthood. He took another sip of coffee, the warmth of the liquid soothing the ache in his heart. He looked around the small shop, noting how little it had changed over the years. It was like a time capsule, holding the essence of their childhood. Ten let his mind wander back, relishing in the memories of their shared laughs, their stolen kisses, their promises.

He was brought back to earth when the door bell of the shop rang. He darted his eyes automatically at the sound, only to find himself go speechless when he saw who came through the door. 

Kun. 

Wrapped smartly in his coat, he looked warm and cozy. He walked over to the cashier, almost mechanically and ordered one large latte, to go. His classic drink. But he used to hate take out coffee. He used to say it should be savoured, sat down. Well, times change, Ten guessed.

Kun didn't see Ten staring at him until he turned around after getting the coffee.The sight of Kun again brought back a flood of memories, but Ten was also conscious of the coldness he had felt the previous night. Was it too soon to try to reconnect after all these years? He found himself hesitating, unsure of what to do, frozen to the spot. 

Should he talk to Kun? Should he say hi? Kun seemed to be caught off guard too, seeing Ten at their old spot. Ten noticed that Kun blinked twice, as if to make sure he wasn't hallucinating. 

"Hey" Ten said feebly.

"H-hi" Kun replied, as if woken from a dream. He shook his head at himself, and turned around.

"Have a nice day" Ten said, watching Kun walk towards the door. Kun came to a halt, looked over his shoulder at Ten, and nodded curtly. "You too"

Well, that wasn't awkward at all, was it? Ten thought to himself. Before he could ponder on what just happened, he saw Tang ayi coming towards him, with her usually warm smile brightening up the whole shop.

Ten gave the old woman a small smile, trying to hide the pain in his heart. 

"Ah Ten! Is that you? I heard you're back. How are you, been so long son" 

"Yes it's me ayi.. Yeah, it's nice to be back"

"Oh, Ten dear! I remember you so well. Just as handsome as you were back in those days ."

"Thank you, ayi. But you know what? I never thought I'd feel this old."

"Oh, time flies. You're all grown up now. And so is Kun. I remember you two came here every evening, after school. Stay for hours, do homework...You two were so cute. Have you met him already?"

Ten's heart ached at the mention of Kun's name.

"Kun... yes. I met him yesterday ayi... Does... Does he still come here often?"

Aunt seemed a bit surprised at his reply.

"Of course, dear. He comes here every day, probably came today too, you may have missed him just by minutes. He comes early in the morning, just for his to-go coffee. He never sits down anymore, not once since you left."

Ten swallowed, the words feeling like a punch to the gut.

"Really? He doesn't... sit down?"

The old woman shook her head, a hint of sadness in her eyes.

"No, dear. Just comes in, orders his coffee to go, and then leaves" 

Ten's heart dropped as the old woman continued.

"Actually, he didn't come here for about a year, abruptly. Later I got to know that was after you left. I thought he was going to that new coffee chain shop they opened down the street. Many people in town did, you know. My business suffered for a while. But then Kun... he heard about it. He came back, started ordering from here again, but he'd never stay to drink. Always take his coffee to go."

Ten sat there, stunned by the woman's words. The thought that Kun had returned solely because of her struggling business, the fact that he came back yet refused to stay, all of it hit him like a wave. He came to support the kind ayi, he came to support and save the place that had so many of their memories. But he didn't stay long enough with those memories.

That's textbook Kun. 

Ten clenched his jaw, trying to push down the myriad of emotions coursing through him. 

"Why doesn't... Why doesn't he stay? Why won't he sit down and have a coffee?" Ten didn't know he was thinking out loud. 

"I don't know, dear. He never says a word about it. Just comes, orders to go and leaves. Always like he's in a hurry to get someplace, even when he's got nowhere to be" 

Ten's heart felt like it was cracking. He clenched his hands into fists, fighting back the wave of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. 

"Oh are you alright sweetheart?" She asked Ten, noticing how his face turned sour. 

"Ye... Yeah ayi... I'm just... Thinking" 

She pat him on the shoulder kindly. "Look, Ten. I don't know went down with the two of you. But I know time and distance change a lot of things, but I'm sure you can patch it up, you and Kun... Kun... He... He really....  he's a good kid. You both are" 

Ten smiled lended a feeble smile to her and finished up his coffee. He made sure to leave a generous tip before leaving the coffe place, taking one more glance at the place he spent so many afternoons in his childhood.

----

It was still early when he stepped outside, there were kids going to school in their uniforms, the sight took Ten back to his schooldays. He and Kun used to ride the bicycle to the school. They'd race, and he won, almost always. Did Kun let him win or did he win on his own? He'd never know. He came across familiar old faces, his friends going to work, some of them dropping their kids to school. Time had indeed changed a lot of things.

His stroll ended up at a flowershop/hardware store ran by their old friends, Sicheng and Jaehyun . They sold everything from shovels to flowers. From fertilizer to screwdrivers. It was a werid combination, but they've been wanting to do that for the longest time. It was nice seeing everyone living up their dream lives.

"Tennie!!! Oh my god, come on in!!  Sichenggg, babe come here!!" Jaehyun welcomed Ten excitedly hugging him. 

Chapter Text

" Tenniee!!!" Sicheng lept into his arms. 

"My winwin" Ten said affectionately, they used to call him that in school.

" Didn't even know you were coming, man" Jaehyun said.

" I wasn't so sure either to be honest. It's just that... " Ten sighed.

"Let's get you upstairs, come on. We live upstairs, downstairs is the shop, we're lucky we got this building" Jaehyun lead them to the stairs. 

"Jae who's gonna run the shop if we're all upstairs" 

" Ah, if someone comes we'll hear the bell. Come on, come on, it's not every day we get to see you here" Jaehyun said, and Sicheng agreed. 

"Have you had lunch yet, no? You're staying for lunch with us either way, no Ten I won't take no for an answer". Sicheng said, heading out to the kitchen.

"Sicheng, really, I'd just had coffee and a cookie from Tang ayi's. I'm not hungry anyway"

"Ahh Tang ayi's. Still the best coffee ever. Although, they stared this new coffe shop down the street from her. A big chain. People started going there more. Our small town is starting to get more... what's the word... commercialized." Jaehyun chucked, staring adoringly at Sicheng searching words. They were an adorable couple, extremely good looking and cute. They'd been that way since they were in high school. 

"Anyway, we'll eat something light for lunch then, Jae has gotten exceptionally good at cooking " 

"Have you now?" Ten chuckled. "So I'm the only disaster at Kitchen?" 

"Ah no, I'm still not that good myself" Sicheng added. 

They talked about Ten's whereabouts, Sicheng and Jaehyun's relationship, and the shop, and business. Time flew by fast, when you're with friends. After the light lunch made by Jaehyun, they settled on the couch. 

" Have you met Kun yet?" Jaehyun asked.

"I ... Yeah..  I ... At dinner last night, with my family "

Ten stammered.

"He seemed... Distant." He added cautiously.

Sicheng and Jaehyun looked at each other then at Ten. Ten looked at Sicheng, his heart heavy with the weight of his pain.

"I feel like he's avoiding me"

Sicheng leaned back, a frown creasing his forehead.

"I hate being like this Ten, but what else were you expecting?" 

"I know... I just... Somehow I didn't ... It's just..."

Sicheng looked at Ten, with concern.

"Where are you actually going with this Tennie?. Realistically, what did you expect?"

"I don't ... Expect... It's just that..."

Sicheng sighed. 

"You were indecisive about Kun then, eleven years later you're still indecisive about him now, Ten" 

"Hey!" Jaehyun interrupted. "Don't talk to him like that"

"No, Jae, it's ... I .. it's fine, I-" Ten hushed his friend. Between the two of them Jaehyun was always closer to him and Sicheng was closer to Kun. 

"Think about it Ten, he was in love with you for years whe-"

"But he never told me!". Ten protested.

"Did he really have to?" Sicheng countered. 

"You know what happened between the two of you better than I do, Ten. Are you really telling me that you didn't know he was in love with you all that time? Are you telling me that you didn't cave into his affections until the very last moment when you rejected him and vanished from the town?"

"I didn't - it's not like that okay? I was gonna leave anyway, he knew that since we were nine years old" Ten fought back. "And wouldn't he be even more heartbroken if we were together for all those years and then I left ?" 

Sicheng's expression darkened, recalling the past.

"Kun... he wasn't just heartbroken, Ten. He was shattered. After you left, he was like a ghost. He barely ate, he barely slept. It was like he was drowning" Sicheng said quietly.

"He didn't let anyone see it, of course. I'd see him sometimes in mornings eyes blood shot red from crying all night. Even then he wouldn't talk about it with me. Then he applied to vet school, got into it easily because he had good marks, and moved out of town for school. Even I thought he had completely moved on. But one time, I think it was his third year of Vet school, he came back home for holidays, he asked me to come meet him and cried his eyes out. That was when I knew he still hasn't moved on. That was when I knew how hard it really hit him and how well he hid it from everyone "

"But why didn't he tell Ten all that? They were friends for like twenty years, they could've worked out long distance or something if he'd just confessed earlier" Jaehyun defended Ten.

"Kun would never want to burden him. He wanted Ten to follow his dreams. Even if that process broke him. And he'd still put those broken pieces together and love Ten with all of them" 

That sounded just like Kun. 

"So he hates me now, doesn't he?" Ten whispered. 

Sicheng smiled faintly, understanding Ten's guilt.

"He never hated you, Ten. He was proud of you, happy for your success. He kept in touch with all of your achievements. He even asked me and Jae to vote for you, for some award."

" Ah yes, that American one yeah? He was pestering me until I sent him a screenshot " Jaehyun said with a light chuckle. 

Kun.

That sounded just like Kun. 

"I just... I want to at least apologize " Ten said, his voice coarse, choking on the tears he'd been holding back. 

Sicheng looked at him seriously.

"And then what? Say you're sorry and disappear back to your life, never return?. And leave him here again, after poking his healing wound. Is that what you're planning to do"

" I ... I don't... I just want to ... At least talk to him" 

Sicheng bit on his inner cheek. 

"I think you should, Ten" Jaehyun said firmly.

Sicheng looked at him in protest. 

" It's their story, babe. Their lives. They should talk it out" Jaehyun said in a firm but kind voice.

"I promise, Sicheng, I won't hurt him. I just.. just want one chance " 

" I know you're hurting too,Ten. I just.. I saw how he was, and I don't want to see him like that again"

"I know. I promise, I won't do anything to hurt him. But I think we both need to talk this out" 

" He has a point, babe. They're not teenagers anymore. They're adults, they've both matured, this might actually do good" Jaehyun said, soothing Sicheng's hand.

"Okay.. okay... I... Wish you the best then, Tennie" Sicheng said sincerely. 

Chapter Text

Ten was determined to meet Kun after the meet up with Sicheng and Jaehyun. He had to tell him. He had to talk with him. He had suffered enough. Ten checked with Kun's office in town, they told him that he was in the clinic up the mountain. It was already afternoon, if Ten hurried up, he could make it up by the sundown. If he's lucky, he'll catch a ride up too. 

Unfortunately for Ten, there was nobody going up the mountain. Which was strange, because usually there were farmers bringing down their crops, or stableboys bringing their herds down after feeding. Maybe it's because of holidays, Ten thought and continued his hike up. 

The journey itself reminded him of countless hikes like these he took with Kun. Kun was obsessed with sunsets, he was on a mission to capture every sunset possible with his old film camera. Ten tagged along, naturally, he'd do anything with him. 

It was on knew of those hikes they first kissed. They were about fifteen.

***

The air at the top of the mountain was cool, crisp against Ten's skin as he stood there beside Kun, looking out over the small town nestled in the valley below. The sun was setting, casting everything in a golden hue that made the world seem softer, almost dreamlike. The sky was painted in shades of pink and orange, with streaks of purple beginning to edge in as twilight slowly approached. It was one of those moments that felt both timeless and fleeting, a moment that seemed to hold its breath, as if waiting for something to happen.He felt the weight of Kun's presence next to him, their shoulders barely brushing, but enough to make him acutely aware of the warmth that radiated from Kun's body. He glanced over at Kun, there was something in the way Kun looked back at him, something soft and warm, that made Ten's breath catch in his throat. He saw the way the golden light of the setting sun touched Kun's face, casting shadows along his jawline and making his eyes look deeper, more intense.

Without thinking, Ten took a small step closer, their hands brushing lightly. The touch was fleeting, but it sent a shiver down his spine, a quiet thrill that he couldn’t quite explain. He felt drawn to Kun in a way that was both soft and overwhelming, like every part of him knew this moment was inevitable. He remembered how Kun's gaze softened, and Ten saw the slightest hint of a smile play on his lips. Time seemed to slow, the world around them fading into the background. It was just the two of them, standing on this mountain, bathed in the golden light of the sunset.

Then, almost instinctively, Ten leaned in. He didn’t even realize he was doing it too. Neither of them knew who started it but their lips touched, softly and gently. Ten's heart raced, but there was no rush. The kiss was slow, tender, like they had all the time in the world. And they did. 

It started off a habit, the gentle soft kisses. They didn't talk about it, but each of those gentle kisses were a promise, an unspoken confession.

Kisses progressed to cuddle sessions, and then to sleepovers, but not the kind they had when they were kids. This new kind were late at nights, the kind of nights where silence filled the air and the darkness outside felt soft, almost velvety. They would lay on Kun's bed, facing each other, bathed in the dim light of a single lamp on the bedside table. The room so still, save for the occasional soft rustle of the sheets as one of them shifted slightly, trying to get closer. Kun’s hand rested lightly on Ten’s hip, his thumb tracing slow, lazy circles against the fabric of Ten’s shirt. His touch was barely there, a featherlight caress that sent gentle waves of warmth through Ten’s body. Ten’s eyes fluttered closed, his lips curving into a peaceful smile. The night would then progress, their bodies intertwined with each other, discovering new dimensions of pleasure and intimacy. By the end of a few hours his sweaty forehead would press against Kun’s, their breaths mingling in the small space between them.

The mornings, specially weekend mornings were even better. While the sun light filtered gently through the curtains, casting a soft golden glow across the room. The world outside was still quiet, save for the distant chirping of birds greeting the day. They were laying together, still bare from last night, marks of lips on each others's bodies covered up with a shared blanket, his breath warming up Ten's whole body. They were in no rush, the had no place else to be and no place they'd rather be. 

***

Ten could feel his body warming up at those memories, and his eyes brimming. Kun was so good to him. They were so good together.

Drowning in a sea of memories while trailing up,Ten didn't realize that the whole sky had turned grey. It was when the wind started getting harsher that he noticed that the whole surrounding had changed. 

"Fuck, a blizzard" He muttered to himself. He still had about an hour or two left to reach Kun's place, and if the blizzard comes down harsh, it might take him even longer. Not to mention he was not equipped for a blizzard. And there weren't anyone on the road that could help him out.  

He stared walking faster, but the elevation and harsh winds weren't helping his cause. The wind and snow fall got heavier by the second, Ten was too far up to start descending, there weren't any houses nearby to stop either. Kun didn't live on top of the mountain, just halfway, along the same level as some farmlands and stables. He just needed to get there and it'd be alright, or that's what he kept telling himself. He could feel the cold seething in to his hands and his toes starting to go numb. Heavy falling snow blocked his view, while tiny shards of icicles attacked him right on his face and eyes, leaving tiny abrasions on his eyes. He knew they'd hurt like a bitch the next morning. But momentarily, the cold was keeping his eyes numb. 

By the time Ten reached the area with establishments, farms and houses, he had lost all of his energy. He didn't know how he made it that far, he just knew that he had to get to Kun. Even if he was half dead, he knew Kun could and would revive him. He's a doctor of sorts, if he thought about it. And he was Kun, there's nothing he couldn't do anyway. 

When he finally reached Kun's place, it was already dark. He'd lost track of time, but he could faintly see a lamp post, and through the snow, he saw " veterinary clinic" written in red, on a white board. On the right to it was a long stable like building, that ought to be where the animals were kept. On the left of it was a small cozy cottage. That should be where Kun lived. The lights seem to be on, which is a good sign, he's there and he was up. Surge of relief washed over Ten. 

Ten sped up, and started knocking on the door. His arms were almost frozen in position, he was unable to produce a loud enough knock. But after a few more tries, the sound of a " who is it?" Came from inside. Ten couldn't talk. He was exhausted, for one thing. His voice seemed to have vanished, his throat aching. So he kept on knocking, until he heard the door knobs clanking from the inside. Few more seconds which seemed like a lifetime passed, and right in front of him was Kun.

Draped in a comfortable robe, messy brown hair and warm eyes, and the whole thing.

Kun. 

Chapter Text

"Ten?!!! What the fuc- Wha-" Kun was speechless, looking at Ten at his doorstep.

Ten's teeth were clattering from cold, his breath forming mist right in front of Kun.

" Come inside, gosh, you're practically frozen" Kun pulled Ten inside and closed the door behind them. He guided Ten to the living room, sat him down right in front of the fireplace. 

Ten immediately stuck his hands out to the warmth of the fireplace. He could hear Kun muttering something and from his side vision he could see Kun disappear and come back. He looked up at Kun, who was carrying heating pads. He wanted to say something, but words wouldn't come out from his mouth. Kun sat at his feet, and started removing his boots. He carefully removed his socks, and rubbed his toes gently before softly placing the heating pads. 

" Five more minutes outside and you'd have lost all your toes! What were you even thinking?!" He half yelled. And Ten could only shake his head. Was it because he was cold or because he had no good explanation? He didn't know..

Kun muttered something under his breath, while inspecting Ten's fingers. 

" It's a miracle you haven't got any frost bites" 

He said, adding some heating pads between his hands and disappeared again only to come back with what seemed like a bowl of warm water and soft gauze. 

He removed Ten's scarf slowly and inspected his neck and ears, then dabbed the gauze in warm water. Then he carefully dab his eyes, where there were small ice shards caught between his eyelashes and hurting his eyes and proceeded to wipe his ears and neck with the gauze dabbed in warm water. Once he was done with that, Ten was feeling obviously better, he looked up at Kun with gratitude.

Kun avoided his gaze, walked away from him while Ten removed his coat, because the heat from the fireplace was warming him up quite well. In about five minutes Kun returned, with what seemed like a piping hot tea.

"Drink this, it'll warm you up" 

Ten wanted to protest and say he's warm enough,but he wasn't fully energized enough to say anything. Instead he took the mug in both of his hands and sipped on the tea, and Kun was right, as always, it did warm him up from inside. 

"Th- thank you" Ten managed to whisper.

"What were you even thinking? Hiking up the mountain,all alone while a blizzard warning was up?" 

"Well... I didn't... I didn't know about the warning and... It... It didn't look like it was going to... The weather down at the town was nice and I thought..."

"Thought it's all good to come up the mountain, at this time ? When did you even set off? Who gave you a ride"

"After lunch? And I ... I came by myself. Nobody was outside to give a ride"

Kun swore quietly. 

" You wonder why nobody was out??! In this weather?? You're insane. You're actually insane"

"Stop yelling at me okay?" 

"I wasn't yelling!!" 

"You were yelling and you still are!"

" Great, you've gained enough strength to talk back. That's a good sign. What were you doing here anyway?"

"What do you think I was doing?! Kun I came to see you!"

Kun went silent, his expression was unreadable. Ten carefully placed the mug he was sipping on the coaster and looked at Kun. 

"Kun"

He could see Kun's Adams apple move, he was staring down at the fire burning fiercely in the fireplace. 

"Kun, I ... I wanted to see you" 

There was a silence. For a few seconds. And then for a few minutes. 

"Why" 

Kun finally asked, still looking at the fire, in a barely audible whisper.

" What do you mean why, Kun?! You wouldn't even look at me at dinner. You didn't even speak to me at all when I saw you at the coffe shop. I ... I wanted to... Kun .. I..." 

Kun looked at Ten. His gaze was piercing Ten's core. 

"What?" Kun asked curtly, yet his voice was louder than before. 

"What did you want me to do, Ten. Welcome you back with a banner?  Ask for your autograph? Take a selfie with super star Ten Lee who finally graced humble hometown with his presence?"

"NO! What the fuck Kun, NO!"

"Then what?"  

"Why are you being this way?" 

"What way?"

"You know well enough what I'm talking about "

"Do I?"

"Oh don't be obtuse, Kun"

"Oh I am being obtuse? I'm the one being obtuse?" Kun snarled.

"Yes! yes, you are"

Kun shook his head, with a devilish smirk gracing his face. Almost cruel, if Kun could ever be cruel. 

"Eleven years. Eleven fucking years. After everything that happened. Not a word from you. Not when I begged, not when I stopped begging. Not even a thank you, after the happy birthday texts I'd sent. Not even a new year message. Did you even get those messages? Or did you change your number fully? I wouldn't know, now would I?"

"Kun" 

Ten sounded apologetic. 

"I'm ... I'm so-" 

"Don't" Kun cut him off almost immediately. 

"Don't apologize" 

"Kun"

" You don't get the luxury of apologizing. No , Ten, you can't apologize and make all of this go away. Is that why you're here ? Why are you even here ?"

"I... I don't ..." Ten sighed. This wasn't going anywhere. Maybe he shouldn't have been here at the first place.

"I'll get going. I ..  I should've have never come to bother you" He said, standing up.

" You're not going anywhere, not in this weather" Kun stood up, physically blocking Ten. Ten felt so small in front of Kun, who had now grown bulkier and more muscular than he remembered.

"Just... Just sit down. And ... And ... Wait until the blizzard clears. I'll ... I'll get you some clothes. Go clean up" 

" Wait.. how ... How long would this last?"

"It's a blizzard Ten, you've lived here for eighteen years, you know they can last for couple of days, specially up on the mountains" Kun sounded exasperated.

"Shit" 

"Kun I didn't - oh god..."

"Your phone working? There's a charger there, you can try. But most of the time reception is bad up here. I'll send my family a message that you're here, they'll tell yours.  I've a satellite phone here for emergencies" 

Of course he did. That's Kun. Always resourceful. Always making sure that nobody felt uneasy. 

"Thank you" Ten whispered. " For ... For that ... And for the... Heating pads and the tea.. and ...."

"Go change. I'll have dinner ready by the time you've freashen up. There's extra towels in the bathroom and ... Well, you're gonna have to settle for my clothes for the time being"

"I... I can... Manage with these it's okay" 

"Ten you're not gonna be able to get back home for tonight, and for a good part of tomorrow and maybe the day after as well. The warning was grade four. It might last at least two days. Do you really wanna keep wearing that?" 

"Fine fine, you always have a point". Ten mumbled, before disappearing into Kun's bathroom. 

By the time Ten came out of the shower, the whole house was smelling like freshly made dinner. Kun had always been good at cooking. 

Chapter Text

Dinner went by quietly, except for the cluttering of the dishes and occasional sounds of them biting on something crunchy. 

"It's ... It's good..  tasty" Ten muttered, walking over to clean his plate. 

"Thank you" Kun said, practically hovering over him. 

"I'll do that, just... Go lie down or something"

"Kun I can wash the dish I ate dr-"

"Yes you can, but my mother would kick me if she gets to know I let a guest wash dishes"

Guest.

That hit hard. 

He was a guest in Kun's house. 

Ten left the kitchen and walked over to the couch, trying to make a bed out of it. He couldn't wait till this blizzard ended, he need to get out of here, he was clearly not wanted there.

"I made the bed for you, you can rest there" 
Kun walked over to him.

"It's my bed room, if you don't mind. I only have one bed room here. I've changed sheets and all, if you want there's more blankets in the dresser by the bed" 

"I'm okay with the couch" Ten replied.

"Again, my mom would kick me if I let a guest sleep on a couch" 

"Stop it, Kun!" 

"Stop what?" 

"Stop calling me a guest"

Kun raised his eyebrow. 

"Aren't you?"

"Am I? Really? That's all I am? A guest? A random stranger?"

"You tell me, Ten. I don't think I know you anymore" 

"Kun, don't be like this"

"What difference would it make, if I wasn't being like this?" 

"We could actually talk? "

"Talk what, Ten. You said that day, that you have nothing else to say to me" 

Kun's voice was cold. Ten knew he deserved that, but it still hurt.

"What else was I supposed to say, Kun. You put me in a difficult position. Did you ever think about it from my perspective? I was going to go away, and you confessed. You made me choose between you and my career"

"I didn't confess to keep you here, Ten. For god's sake, why would I do that? I confessed because we'd been doing everything a couple would, without telling each other that we loved each other. I thought the feelings were mutual, my bad on that". His tone was heavy with sarcasm.

" I just didn't want you to leave without ever actually telling you I loved you. And a small part of me wanted to hear that you loved me too, before you went. Because I needed that little exchange, to hold on to while you were gone. Until you came back. But I was way off, wasn't I ?" Kun said boldly. 

"Not only you didn't love me, you never came back either." 

"Kun I'm sorry -" 

Kun cut him off.

" so that's what you want,  apologize and waltz out of my life again? Go back to your dream life, as if nothing happened? All is forgiven and forgotten?"

"It's not like that and you know it"

"Frankly I don't think I know anything at all when it comes to you"

"Kun, don't be like this" Ten plead.

Kun sighed and looked out. 

" I never meant to hurt you, Kun. Believe me"

Kun let out a sarcastic laugh. Almost mean.

" You really thought I wouldn't be hurt when you downright rejected me when I finally plucked up the courage to confess that I was in love with you, and left the town for good? After everything that happened between us, did you think I wouldn't be hurt? Did you really think I was a robot?" 

"That's ... That's not what I meant Kun" 

"Then what? Ten, tell me. Tell me what you meant. I want to know too. Which part of our story made you feel like I wouldn't be hurt ?"

"It's not that you wouldn't be hurt, it's more like, you'd be hurt less. Kun, wouldn't you have felt sadder if we were actually dating and I left? "

"Actually dati- oh my god -Ten" 

"What?!" 

"So all those times we kissed, all this times we cuddled, it wasn't - we were just friends in your head? Huh? Everything we did together, did you do all that with your other friends too ?" 

"Kun, that's not wha-"

"Then what is it Ten? And when I finally, fucking finally told you I was in love with you, you just said that we shouldn't be together? That you never meant us to go that far? That you are about to go away and we'll never work" 

Ten sighed.

"You knew that I wanted to leave since I was eight years old, Kun. You knew about my dream more than anyone else. I had to pursue my dream, you're the one who encouraged it the most. Hell, you were the one who keep finding me agencies and audition dates. And now you're mad I actually followed through?"

"I was never mad at you for following your dream, Ten. I wanted you to have your dream life more than anything else. I was just sad when I realized that I was never a part of that dream life, because you've always been a part of mine"

Oh...

"But-"

"Just don't, Ten. I've ...  That's enough. " Kun said, his voice finally cracking. 

"If you came here for an apology. I'll accept it. Will that make you sleep better?" He sounded defeated.

"Wha- Kun, no... That's not"

"Then what, Ten? What else do you want from me? Why did you come back? To tear me apart all over again? To remind me that you never loved me the way I loved you? Because trust me, I know that well enough "

"No, NO Kun, that's not what I ....gosh why is this so hard" 

Ten felt a sense of despair wash over him. It was like he was talking to a wall. Kun had always been very guarded with his heart. But after what happened with him, Kun had built a fortress around his heart, a wall so tall and thick that no amount of pleading or explanation could breach it. 

"Why did you kiss me back, whenever I kissed you?" Kun asked."Why didn't you ever stop me? Why did you let me go all the way? Why did you start sleeping in my bed, Ten, why did you ... That night, when we first-" Kun pinched the bridge of his nose. Ten knew he was thinking of the first time they made love. Because that's what he was thinking about too. "Why did you-" Kun sighed. "Why did you keep coming back to my bed, every night, wanting more?" Kun asked non stop. 

"You said you never loved me that way, but up until that day, you didn't show any sign for me to think that our feelings weren't mutual. So tell me, Ten, was I just stupid or did you play me? Was I not good enough for the life you dreamed of?"

"Kun, Stop!" Ten practically wailed.

He knew Kun was finally verbalizing all the questions he'd be repeatedly asking himself. It was heavy, it was searing, but he needed to address them, for once, and maybe for all.

"Tell me, Ten, was it all in my head ? Tell me, did you ever have an ounce of a feeling about me?" Kun's voice was vicious, yet strained with agony at the same time.

"Kun, I said STOP" Ten fired. He wasn't loud, but the tone was so authoritative, it stopped Kun's rambling.

"That day... I didn't mean it when I said I didn't reciprocate your feelings" Ten said quietly, but firmly.

"I lied. Because I was afraid... Kun, by that time I was already doubting my decision to leave, because I was so attached to you. Because I didn't want to leave you. But I ... If I'd actually let myself fully be in love, and officially say those words, I knew I'd reach a point of no return. I knew I'd never leave you, or this town. And that'd have been... "

"A waste" Kun completed his sentence.

"No, not a waste. But I would've regretted it"

"Do you have no regrets now?"

"I do...  But"

"But they're easier to live with, aren't they ?"

"Kun!!" 

Kun sighed. 

" I was protecting myself from a heartbreak. And in my head, I was protecting you from the same heartbreak too. I was ... I was selfish. I know. In the process of saving my heart, I've hurt yours so badly. And for that, I'm truly sorry, Kun"

Kun swallowed a lump in his throat. Ten reached over at him and slowly cupped his face.

"But I need you to know, Kun, I've always loved you. None of it was a lie, Kun, believe me, even when I turned you down, even when I was thousands of miles away, ever since we were fourteen years old... I've always loved you" 

Kun took a long moment before he replied.

"Why are you telling me this now ? What's the point? You're going to leave again, and I'll be here, all by myself, thinking of what could've been. You're going to hurt me again, Ten" 

Kun's eyes were brimmed with tears and Ten had never heard Kun sound so weak. 

Chapter Text

Ten held on to Kun tightly as Kun's sobs filled up the place. Kun hardly ever cried. He had always bottled up his emotions, he was only vulnerable with a very few people. Sicheng, his best friend was one of them, but even with him, Kun didn't go all the way. Ten was the other one, and with Ten he had always been completely and truly vulnerable. Ten was his safe place. Ten was his comfort zone. Ten was his everything. Until Ten himself left him. But now he's here. Kun could let it all out. Kun's cries were a mixture of all the pain he'd felt for eleven years, all the frustrations, doubting himself, and more pain. Ten teared up too, as he watched the otherwise invincible man sob like an infant. It pained him to know that he was the reason for these tears. Only thing he could do right now was to hold on to Kun and make sure never give him any kind of pain. Ever again. 

Ten wrapped his arms ever so tightly around Kun's waist and Kun let himself sink into the comfort of Ten’s touch. More often than not, it was Kun who used to hold him this way, back when they were together. He was physically bigger than Ten, but this was Ten's turn. Kun’s body still felt heavy against Ten’s, as if the weight of his emotions had exhausted him entirely. 

He shifted slightly, moving closer, as though he could fuse himself to Ten, his safe place. Kun let out a shaky breath, feeling the last of his tension begin to dissolve. With time, Kun’s sobs began to soften, his body trembling less as Ten cradled him in his arms. The room was quiet now, except for the occasional sniffle that escaped Kun’s lips. And after what seemed like hours, Kun slowly and tentatively, lifted his head from Ten’s shoulder, his eyes red and puffy from crying and managed to look up at Ten, with a small, tired smile. It wasn’t much, but it was enough.  that spoke more than words ever could.

Ten looked down at him, concern and affection shining in his gaze. “You okay?” he asked softly, his voice barely louder than a whisper, as if speaking too loudly might break the moment.

Kun nodded, though he didn’t fully trust his voice yet. His throat was still tight from the sobs that had wracked his body just moments ago. Instead of speaking, he pressed his forehead against Ten’s chest, drawing comfort from the steady thump of his heartbeat. 

Ten’s hand moved to cup Kun’s cheek, his thumb brushing away a stray tear that clung stubbornly to his skin. He leaned down, placing a soft kiss on Kun’s temple, then another on his cheek, moving slowly as though each kiss was a promise. A promise that he would stay, that he would never leave Kun again.

Ten slowly hovered his lips over Kun's, and placed his a soft kiss on Kun's lips. A kiss that was more comforting than passionate, meant to ease rather than excite. Kun slowly returned his kiss, he tasted just like Ten remembered, just with a dash of tears. He continued to hold him close, his arms wrapped securely around Kun’s waist as if he was afraid letting go would shatter the fragile calm they had finally reached. His fingers stroked through Kun’s hair, slow and gentle, matching the rhythm of their breathing as it began to sync.

----

He didn't know when they fell asleep. But first thing Ten felt as he began to wake up was warmth. It was the kind of warmth that wrapped around him like a blanket, soft and familiar, easing him out of the haze of sleep. His mind slowly cleared, and it took him a moment to remember why he felt so comfortable, so at peace.

Kun.

The thought sent a wave of calm through him, and a smile tugged at the corners of his lips before he even opened his eyes. He could feel Kun’s arm draped loosely over his waist, his breath soft and steady against the back of Ten’s neck.

Slowly, Ten turned over, careful not to disturb Kun’s sleep. His movements were gentle, and when he shifted, he finally got a glimpse of Kun’s face. Kun was still fast asleep, his face relaxed and peaceful, lips slightly parted as he breathed softly. The sight made Ten’s heart swell with affection. He had missed this — missed Kun.

Unable to resist, Ten reached out his fingers tracing lightly along the line of Kun’s jaw. His skin was warm beneath Ten’s touch, and he marveled at how real this moment felt. No more distance. No more tears. Kun was right there.

Kun stirred slightly at the touch, his brow furrowing just the tiniest bit before his eyes fluttered open. For a moment, he looked disoriented, like he wasn’t quite sure if he was still dreaming. Then, his gaze found Ten’s, and a slow, sleepy smile spread across his face.

“Morning,” Kun murmured, his voice thick and deep with sleep, barely more than a whisper.

Ten’s heart skipped at the sound of it. He'd always loved Kun's morning voice. “Morning,” he whispered back, his smile widening as he leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to Kun’s forehead. His lips lingered there, savoring the closeness, the simple fact of being able to kiss him like this after so long.

Kun sighed softly, shifting a little closer, his hand sliding up to rest against Ten’s back. “You’re really here,” he mumbled dreamily, his words carrying a hint of disbelief, as if he couldn’t quite believe they were finally in the same place.

“I’m here,” Ten confirmed, his voice tender as he pulled back just enough to look into Kun’s eyes. “And I’m not going anywhere.”

Kun’s smile softened, and for a moment, they just looked at each other, soaking in the moment, the quiet intimacy of waking up together. Then, without a word, Kun leaned forward, pressing his lips to Ten’s, in a soft, unhurried kiss. It was gentle, a kiss that spoke of all the time they had missed, of all the love they had to give now that they were together again.

Ten melted into the kiss, his hand coming up to cup Kun’s cheek as they sank into the warmth of the moment. When they finally pulled apart, their foreheads rested against each other, the space between them filled with quiet breaths and the soft beat of their hearts. 

The surreal moment was only broken when Kun's alarm started going off. 

"I've to go to the shed" He said, turning it off. 

"Oh?" 

"Yeah, there's a few animals there, most of them are well already, just waiting till the owners pick them up. They'll be here after the storm clears" Kun explained. 

"Can I come too?"

Kun smiled fondly.

"Of course you can" He said, and left a kiss on Ten's cheek before getting up from the couch they'd been on. 

Kun got Ten some thick jackets, and footwear, along with head covers and gloves. 

"We've to walk a bit outside, the blizzard is still at large. you saw the shed on the way yeah?" He asked, putting his own socks on. 

"Yeah... Kind of" Ten replied, putting on the gloves. 

"Hold on to me tightly okay? Don't let go until we're at the shed" Kun instructed before he opened the door.

----

Kun was right. The blizzard was still raging outside, but Ten was better equipped this time and the distance was about fifty meters. They managed to get inside and close the door. 

The shed, was warm, there was a lamb, a cow and a small bunny rabbit. Kun started feeding the animals and then inspecting them.

"This guy, he had an infection on his hooves" Kun said, as he examined the cown. "He's all better now, I'm just adding the antibiotics, just to make sure he stays that way" Ten watched how Kun carefully treated the animal. 

"And that one over there is Miss daisy" Kun said , pointing at the lamb. "She had a problem with her lungs. I've been treating her for a week now. She's also better, but because it's colder these days, her owner Mr.Lin asked me to keep here here for a bit longer" Ten nodded. 

"And this one?" Ten asked, walking over to the bunny rabbit. " That's Hao, he's the pet rabbit of Xiaojun's little niece. Remember Xiaojun? He went to school with us" Ten nodded. "Hao is here because he dislocated his limb, see that fixture? I'll have to remove it tomorrow and he'll be as good as new" 

Ten loved how Kun talked about the animals. He'd always loved animals. 

"I'm so happy for you, Kun. You're doing something really great, and something you're really good at" 

Kun smiled softly. " These animals... They heal me, more than I heal them" He said softly. Ten nodded. 

"I have three cats, back in the city" 

"Really!?" Kun asked. He knew how much Ten loved cats.

"Yeah, Louis, Leon and Levi. They're with my manager now. I'll show you pictures when we're back home" 

Kun nodded. They spent some more time there , just chatting about Ten's cats, petting little Hao and talking about Kun's vet school times and the animals he'd treated. 

"We should get going, and let them rest a bit. Plus we haven't had anything to eat the whole day and it's past lunch time already" 

"I'm not hungry though " Ten pouted.

"Yes, but you have to eat. I'll make us something good, go wash up first and you'll have a good appetite " 

They locked up the shed and headed back to Kun's house. After warm shower Ten came back with a giant appetite, Kun was always right. After a quick shower, Kun started cooking, filling up the whole place with the aroma of spices. 

Chapter Text

They settled on the couch again after lunch. There was a classic new year's movie playing on Kun's tv, the fire burning while it still stormed heavy snow outside. Kun's arms held Ten securely as they watched the movie, and Ten could feel the butterfly kisses Kun was leaving on his neck. He'd missed this. He'd missed the way Kun's breath feel against his skin, he'd missed the way Kun's heart beat against his back. He'd missed Kun. He laced their fingers together, kissing the tips of Kun's long fingers. 

"I love you, Kun. I love you so much"

Ten whispered. Kun's face settled in to a smile, so pleasant, so relieved. 

"I love you too"  he replied, softly. They spent the whole evening catching up, and there was a lot to catch up. 

Ten talked about his career, his new friends, his concerts and everything else he'd wanted to share with Kun for eleven years. Kun caught him up on what happened in their small town in the past years, about their friends, and interesting stuff he did as a vet.

"I'm so proud of you, you know that right?" Kun asked Ten. " The whole town is, actually. But yeah, I know how hard you worked to get where you are now." Kun said sincerely.

"I know. Sicheng told me you forced Jae to vote for me" Ten chuckled. 

"Oh I made the entire Vet school vote for you too. And you deserved all those votes" Kun laughed, lightheartedly.

"How did I get so lucky, to have you in my life?" Ten asked, his voice soft with emotion.

Kun lightly squeezed him, "I could say the same"

A part of Ten knew that wasn't true. Kun had loved him more than he had loved Kun. But that was in the past. He swore to himself that he'd give Kun all of his love, and then some, for the rest of his life.

Neither one of them could feel the time passing, until Kun's alarm went off again. 

"I've to go feed the animals again, and give them the meds" He said, slowly untangling himself from their intertwined limbs. 

Ten pouted.

"You stay indoors, it's too cold outside. I'll come back soon, okay?" 

Ten nodded. 

Kun came back in about an hour. In the meantime Ten took the liberty to heat up some meals Kun had prepped for their dinner and caught up with his manager. The signal was finally better now that the storm had lightened up.

"Didn't know you cooked now" Kun said, coming out of shower coming back from the shed. 

"It's literally the food you made, genius. I just heated them up"

"Seriously, how did you eat, I mean before you became a hot shot with a private chef?" 

Ten was glad that they're back to the joking stage. They'd always joked around with each other. 

"I was with another trainee. Taeyong. He was good at cooking. You should meet him. Actually, you should meet all my friends, let's go one day yeah?"

"Oh, Taeyong,the rapper? Wow. I didn't know you guys trained together. Yes we should go, I'd like to meet your new friends "

Ten nodded. "Who else are you friends with? Beyonce?"

Ten chuckled. "we're not friends, god. But we were in the same awards show a couple times, if that counts" 

"That totally counts, oh god"

Their dinner was light hearted and happy. After dinner Ten changed into one of Kun's pajama shirts, which covered him almost up to his knees, so he ditched the pajama bottoms. 

"How do you always look better in my clothes than I do" Kun asked, watching Ten climb on to the bed.

Ten gave him a flirty smile and settled beside him. Kun turned to him, slightly brushed the hair covering Ten's face.

"So pretty... Ten, you're so so pretty" his voice was deep. Ten could feel himself blushing. 

"Even more pretty than I remembered" Kun came closer to him, the pads of his thumb, softly lifting Ten's chin. Kun's gaze was soft, warm, but underneath it, Ten could feel the unspoken yearning, the hunger that mirrored his own. It was familiar and new all at once. That quiet intensity Kun carried, it made Ten’s breath catch.

Ten reached out, hesitant at first, brushing his fingertips along the edge of Kun’s plush lipz, barely grazing. It was a tentative contact, feather-light, but it sent a jolt through him. His heart drummed louder, a rhythm that echoed in his ears. Kun didn’t pull away. Instead, Ten saw his eyelids flutter slightly at the touch.

“I missed you,” Ten whispered, the words thick in his throat.

Kun’s lips parted, and for a moment, Ten thought he might say something back. But instead, pushed himself closer, his hand reaching up to cup Ten’s face, as if he'd forgotten how to speak.

Ten leaned into the warmth of Kun’s hand, his eyes fluttering shut for a second, just to savor the feeling. The tension between them grew, a slow, simmering thing that built with each passing second. Without thinking, he closed the small distance between them. The kiss was slow at first, hesitant, as if testing the waters. After all, it had been eleven years.

Kun’s lips brushed against his, soft and warm, and Ten’s heart skipped a beat. He kissed back, just as gently, savoring the taste of Kun's lips, the warmth of his breath. The world seemed to narrow down to just them, the slow slide of lips against lips, the heat that began to coil in the pit of his stomach.

Kun’s hands slid down to Ten’s waist, pulling him closer until their bodies were flush against each other. The kiss deepened, and Ten felt the soft press of Kun’s tongue against his lips, asking for more. He parted his lips, allowing Kun in, and the kiss turned hotter, more desperate. It was as if all the years of waiting, of missing each other, had boiled down to this moment, to this kiss.

Ten’s hands found their way to Kun’s shoulders, gripping him tightly, needing to ground himself. His body was buzzing, alive in a way it hadn’t been in years. Every brush of Kun’s lips, every touch of his hands sent sparks through his veins. It was overwhelming and perfect at the same time.

They broke apart for air, both of them panting slightly, their foreheads still pressed together. Ten’s eyes were half-lidded, and he could see the same fire burning in Kun’s gaze. His lips were swollen, and the sight of them, red and slick from their kiss, made Ten’s stomach twist with need.

Kun’s hands slid under Ten’s shirt, his palms warm against his skin, and Ten shivered at the contact. It was slow, deliberate, the way Kun’s hands roamed his body, as if memorizing every inch of him again. Ten let out a soft sigh, leaning into the touch, his body arching toward Kun’s. His own hands moved too, slipping under Kun’s shirt, feeling the smooth expanse of his back, the warmth of his skin. Kun’s hands were gentle but firm, his touch guided Ten with a mix of tenderness and urgency. The way he undressed Ten, his fingers trailing over his skin, made every nerve in Ten’s body sing with need. 

With a soft groan, Ten’s hands slid to Kun’s waistband, and with a swift, practiced motion he undid Kun's pajama pants, releasing his hardness outside. The moment his fingers brushed against the bare skin of his hips, Kun’s breath hitched.

"I'm ... It's..  it's been a while" Kun said apologetically. Ten smiled, "I know, baby. I'll make it good for you" 

Ten left a gentle kiss on his tip, a teasing taste that made Kun let out a low moan, unable to suppress the way his body reacted to Ten’s touch. Then he traced his lips along Kun’s length, in a slow and slobbery way.

When Ten finally took him into his mouth, Kun’s head fell back, a guttural groan escaping his lips. The combination of suction and the gentle caress of his tongue made Kun’s hips twitch, his body responding instinctively to the pleasure. It didn't take much time for Kun to scream Ten's name, along with calling out to a heavenly figure neither of them believed in.

"I'm close, I'm so close Ten"

"Let go for me, baby" 

And that was it. Ten calling him baby had always gotten to him. He released, with a groan, and Ten licked him clean before falling on top of him. 

Kun flipped them over and his lips moved to Ten’s neck, Ten tilted his head back, surrendering to the touch. The press of Kun’s mouth, the heat of his breath—it was almost too much to bear. Every kiss, every caress made Ten’s body ache with a need he hadn’t realized was so profound. Kun left a few marks on Ten's neck, and then some on his shoulders, before managing to cover every possible inch of Ten's chest, before making it to his hips. His hands reached behind, playing so dangerously close to Ten's opening, as his lips graces Ten's base. 

Every inch of Ten's body craved Kun to go further, his moans vocalized his desire. Kun slowly inserted one of his long fingers inside Ten, followed by another, carefully easing the tight hole. 

"You're... So ... Tight, Tennie" He muttered as he stretched Ten's hole with practiced efficiency of stimulating Ten from both front and back. 

"It's been a ... While for me too" Ten breathed. 

"Do.. do you .. have a condom?" Kun asked, the moment he took his mouth off Ten's erection. 

"I.. no.." Why would he?, he just came over to talk. And Kun didn't have any with him, that meant he wasn't seeing anyone either. That made Ten happier, if that was even possible. 

"I'm... I'm clean... I've always.. used a condom before" Ten said. 

"So am I. The last time was...like three years ago in school... With condoms" Kun replied. 

No wonder he came that fast and was this eage, Ten thought to himself. 

He gave him a nod of approval, to which Kun responded by flipping him over. 

"You ready?" He asked, softly letting his tip grace Ten's entrance.It was a delicate contact, just skin on skin, but that actives all of Ten's neurons.

" I..Yes... Please Kun..." 

Kun slowly pushed his erection into Ten, the sensation was both exhilarating and overwhelming. Ten’s world spun with the intensity of the moment, the heat of Kun’s body, the softness of his skin, the strength of his touch. They moved together, their bodies finding a rhythm that was both instinctive and deliberate, a slow, unhurried exploration that felt like a rediscovery.The pleasure Ten felt was almost too much to bear, each thrust pushing him to the edge of his limits. Kun’s movements were slow and deliberate, igniting sensations that Ten had forgotten could be so intense. His senses were flooded with the feeling of Kun inside him, the heat, the pressure, the perfect fit of their bodies entwined.

As they finally came together, reaching a pleasure that threatened to overwhelm Ten. It was a sensation that went beyond euphoria. Kun stayed inside for a moment of two, before finally taking himself out and flopped on the bed beside Ten. Ten scooted closer to him, resting his head on Kun's sweaty, heaving chest. 

Chapter Text

Ten woke up next day to the feeling of something plush and soft gracing his arm, right across his butterfly tattoo. He slowly opened his eyes to see Kun, leaving softest trail of kisses along that margin of the tattoo. 

"Morning, sunshine" He said, and Kun looked up. 

"Did I wake you?" 

"Mmhm... That's the best way to wake up" Ten whispered.

Kun gathered him closer and softly kissed the corner of his mouth, while his hands still lingered on Ten's tattoo.

"You gotta tell me the story behind these. You didn't have any, the last time I saw you like this" 

Ten flushed, realizing that they were still naked from previous night and his mind flew back to the time Kun was referring to, eleven years ago. So much had changed between them in these years. He had several tattoos, his hair was longer, he had more toned up figure. As for Kun, he'd grown stronger, more muscular. He should have been working out, or maybe all the heavy lifting work he did while building his cabin paid off. They both have matured physically and emotionally, the way they made love had also changed. They'd both been with some people, as they talked about earlier; Kun said he tried to date while in veterinarian school, but his heart wasn't in it properly. Ten had tried to date but he never had time to keep a relationship, or if he's being honest,he couldn't care less. With all that, they'd changed the way they made love too, but they still knew each other's sweet spots, and it'd only gotten better. Ten blushed, thinking about everything that happened last night. 

"Shy, huh? " Kun asked, with a smirk and Ten hurried his head on the crook on his neck. Kun's fingers gently rubbed Ten's bare back, as he inhaled his hair deeply. 

"You smell like me" 

"Mhmm" 

"My darling, my Tennie... I can't believe you're really mine again" Kun was talking to himself more than to Ten. 

"Yours" Ten whispered into Kun's ear. He then nibbled a little on his earlobe, making sure the sound of his kiss is etched into Kun's brain, and then he kissed that sweet spot right behind Kun's ear. That always got him.

"You're gonna be the end of me" Kun muttered, pulling him to a deep kiss. Then they kissed, deeply but slowly. As if they had all the time in the word. As if the rest of the word didn't exist. As if this moment right here, was all that mattered. And it was.

Their tranquil morning was only disrupted when Ten's phone went off. He looked at the screen. 

"I gotta take this " he mumbled apologetically. Kun nodded, to say it's okay. 

"Yes, yes, I'm up" he answered. It was his manager, trying to figure out when he was going to come back, because he was already a day late. 

"I'm snowed in, hyung" he whined. 

His manager sounds a bit frustrated.

"How would I know when it'll stop ?!" 

The voice from the other side sounded frustrated.

"Ten, I can send a helicopter, if you want. I know you don't really like it there. Plus there are some brand deals I'd like to talk to you about"

"Helicopter?! Are you crazy? No"

Kun's eyebrows reached his hairline. Kun knew Ten was a big star. He just didn't fully realize the scope of it or what it fully entailed. Ten noticed the look on Kun's face. He didn't want to scare him away. No, he just got him back.

"Look, hyung, I'll call you back okay? I'm on vacation, this is my first new years at my hometown. Please let me have this" 

"Oh.. okay, okay. Just don't go completely awol okay? At least leave a text per day"

"fineeee. I'm hanging up now byeee"
He hung up and placed the phone on the bed side table and turned to Kun. 

"So, where were we?" He asked, snuggling closer to Kun. But Kun didn't give in. He took a deep breath and cradled his forehead head on his hands. 

"Babe?" Ten reached for Kun. 

"You have to go, don't you?" Kun asked, quietly.

"I... I ... Not yet. Didn't you hear, I told him I'm on vacation and not bother me"

"Yeah, but eventually... You'll have to go. Your whole life is there. You worked so hard for that life"

"Kun..."

"You're leaving me again" 

Kun breathed, his face turning red, Ten didn't know whether that was because he was sad or angry. 

" Kun, baby listen to me". He turned Kun's face towards him.

"It's not like last time" Kun looked at him in disbelief. 

"No... I know. Unlike last time, you said you love me this time... " 

"Kun, I know how it looks, but... " Ten took a deep breath. 

"I worked my ass off for eleven years. Never took a proper vacation. I've worked so hard to establish a name for myself. And I finally have, Kun. Now I'm at a point in my career where I can call the shots. And I will"

"No, Ten. I'm not selfish enough to keep you here. I got to hear that you love me, that'll suffice me for a lifetime, trust me" Kun said sincerely.

"But I want to stay. Kun, I just finished my 6th world tour, I released 8 back to back albums. I need a little time off. Every artist does. Even before I came back here I was thinking of taking a break for a bit. To get some inspiration. And what better place to be inspired than my hometown, in a little cottage on a snowy mountain, with the love of my life?" 

Kun smiled, in disbelief. " You don't have to stay for me"

"I'm staying for me, didn't you hear what I just said? Your morning cuddles and awesome blowjobs are just a plus"

Kun chuckled.

"I'm serious, baby" Ten whispered, slowly pulling Kun back to bed. 

"I'm not going to let us go this time. You hear me? I will fight for us. And don't let me staying here bother your conscience, because I know it will. It's an all in one package for me. I get to spend time with you and be inspired for my work. You understand?"

Kun nodded. 

"And after that, I can just go back to record the album. It only takes a few weeks. Or... or, I can actually have my team build a studio here. Even better. And for events and all, I'll have to go, but that's only a few days a week. You can even come with me, I want you to come with me, I want to introduce you to all my friends" 

Kun nodded with a smile. Usually it was Kun who planned everything ahead. But this time around, Ten knew he had to take the lead. Kun was too tainted with old memories to attempt anything that involved Ten's career. 

"We'll make this work, Kun. I promise. I'll never leave you again. I love you" Ten whispered. And that made Kun choke on the sob he was holding. But he quickly regained his composure.

"I love you too Ten. I love you so much" 
Kun pushed Ten closer to him, and started kissing him passionately. 

"You're my whole world, I know it sounds cheesy, but you are. Ten, you're everything to me" 

Ten knew those words were genuine. Even to this date he didn't know how to fathom the love Kun had for him. Kun was so full of love and it was all for him. He was Kun's safe place, his anchor. He was Kun's first love. He was Kun's best friend. He knew that. He kissed him back, with an intensity he hoped would reflect on how much Kun means to him too. 

The blizzard was still raging outside, but it was less intense. Kun said that it'll die down by the evening and that they could probably go to the town the next day. And tell their families the good news. 

"Oh, and Sicheng and Jaehyun too. You know, Sicheng gave me a whole lecture on not to hurt you ever again or he'll come for my head" 

Kun chuckled. "Sounds like something Sicheng would say. He... He saw me at the worst I'd ever let anyone see me in. Anyone, except you" 

"That'll never happen again, you know that, right?" 

"Yes, I know " Kun said sweetly, pressing another kiss onto Ten's temple. Ten melted into the touch of his lips, and Kun embraced him tightly. From the corner of his eye, Ten could see Kun's nightstand, there was a photo of them from fifteen years ago. They were fourteen then. They had widest smiles ever. Those two kids grew up so well, went through so many heartbreaks, but they were now as happy as they were before. And Ten hoped, they'll be happy for the rest of their lives.