Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The sun hung low in the smog covered sky, enveloping the city of Hwaseong in a dull, orange haze. Centuries of global warming had ravaged the planet, and the scars were evident in the crumbling buildings and desolate streets.

It was a city of stark contrasts. On the surface, chaos reigned. The streets were full of desperate people, scavenging for any remnants of food or clean water, living in perpetual fear of the next violent storm or heatwave.

The city was a dystopian reflection of what had once been Seoul, now transformed into a decaying, cyberpunk-esque metropolis. The skyline was an amalgamation of dilapidated skyscrapers, with facades stained by time and neglect. Neon signs flickered sporadically in the gloom, glowing eerily in the poorly illuminated streets. 

The architecture was a chaotic mixture of old and new. Towering structures leant precariously against one another, adorned with rusted metal scaffolding. Fragile bridges and walkways crisscrossed between buildings, linking illegal markets that bustled with activity during the day but faded into ominous quiet at night. The once bustling city had devolved into a labyrinth of narrow alleys and derelict structures, where law and order were distant memories, replaced by a harsh, survival-of-the-fittest mentality.

Pools of stagnant water gathered in potholes and cracks, reflecting the sickly glow of the neon lights above. The air was thick with the scent of decay and pollution, a constant reminder of the environmental catastrophe that had affected the planet. Among the ruins, remnants of technology from a bygone era remained. Ancient, corroded vehicles sat abandoned in the streets, their once sleek designs now mere skeletons of metal and glass. Wires dangled from broken streetlights, sparking sporadically in the darkness.

Above the cityscape, the sky was a permanent haze of smog, illuminated by the distant glow of the artificial islands where the privileged resided. The floating utopias existed in a stark contrast to the squalor below, their pristine surfaces and gleaming structures visible reminders of the vast divide between the haves and have-nots. They floated serenely, an array of self-sustaining havens that were marvels of human engineering, with lush gardens, advanced medical facilities, and every conceivable luxury. The rich lived in comfort, their lives untouched by the suffering below, protected by layers of security and technology.

As the dying sun shone its last rays upon the skyline of Hwaseong, Jungsoo navigated the narrow streets with ease. He ran past the weary faces of the people outside, his footsteps echoing against the cracked pavement worn smooth by countless footsteps and the relentless passage of time.

Jungsoo's apartment was on top of a decaying high-rise. It was his small sanctuary amidst the chaos, a dilapidated refuge where his friend Hyukjae awaited him like a faithful companion. As he ascended the creaking stairs, he passed neighbors who nodded in acknowledgment, their eyes reflecting the same resignation that weighed upon his own soul.

Inside his apartment, a single window offered a narrow view of the city below, its view framed by cracked glass and a frayed curtain that waved in the faint breeze. 

Jungsoo sank onto a worn armchair, exhaustion settling into his bones like an unwelcome guest. He ran a hand through his disheveled hair, always tinted orange, as his thoughts drifted to the day's deeds and the uncertain future that lay ahead. Outside, Hwaseong continued its relentless march.

That evening, the strong aroma of spicy instant noodles filled the kitchen. Hyukjae, his roommate and companion in this urban wasteland, sat at a small table as he waited for their simple dinner to finish boiling. He had run away to the big city as a young child, trying to escape the hardships that people endured in the flooded lands of the west. His eyes, once filled with the hope of a brighter future, now held a cautious optimism tempered by the harsh realities of their new home.

"Long day?" Hyukjae asked.

Jungsoo nodded wearily,slumping into a chair opposite him. "The usual crap," he replied. "But I managed to scavenge some supplies for us."

Hyukjae offered a grateful smile, his sharp eyes softening momentarily. "You always find a way, Jungsoo Hyung," he remarked, his tone tinged with admiration and gratitude.

Together, they shared a humble meal of instant ramen. After they had cleaned up its remnants, Hyukjae slid a small velvety box across the table toward Jungsoo with a look of  hesitation in his eyes. Nestled inside the worn satin lining lay an old, weathered ring, its band glistened faintly under the dim light of their apartment.

"What do you think?" Hyukjae's voice carried a note of uncertainty, his fingers tracing the intricate patterns etched into the metal.

Jungsoo picked up the ring, turning it over in his small hands, calloused by the hours of hard work at the factory every day. Despite its age and wear, he recognized the telltale shine of gold. "This is real," he said quietly, his eyes widening slightly as he examined it more closely. "It's worth something."

Hyukjae's brow furrowed in disbelief, his gaze fixed on the small treasure now resting in Jungsoo's palm. "You're sure?" he asked, his eyes filling with that old hope of his momentarily.

Jungsoo nodded as his lips twisted upwards in a faint smile. "If we sell this," he began, his voice filled with a cautious optimism, "we'll have enough to eat for a week, maybe more."

For a moment, silence hung heavy between them.  With a nod of agreement, Hyukjae's resolve hardened. "Then let's do it," he declared, his voice tinged with determination as he reached for the ring. "Tomorrow, first light."

The very next day, Jungsoo made his way home after another grueling shift at the cybernetics factory, his steps heavy with exhaustion and a feeling of resentment inside him that felt like a persistent ache. The factory, a monument to technological opulence, churned out marvels of artificial limbs and enhancements destined for the wealthy elite living above in their floating paradises. 

As he entered their dilapidated apartment, the contrast between his labor and his miserable existence struck him with bitter clarity. The scent of Hyukjae's dinner, scavenged scraps of vegetables simmering in a pot alongside with beef that he had probably stolen at the market, mingled with the faint odor that clung to his clothes from the factory facilities. Yet another reminder of the disparity that defined their lives: the rich thriving above, while they struggled to survive below. His hands, stained with grease and metal dust, had crafted intricate components that would never grace the palms of those who survived below. Instead, they would adorn the bodies of the privileged few who lived in opulence, shielded from the harsh realities that he and his friend faced daily. 

Hyukjae glanced up from where he sat, his expression a mix of concern and understanding. "Rough day again?" he ventured, sensing the storm brewing beneath Jungsoo's almost impenetrable facade.

Jungsoo clenched his jaw, the resentment he had buried for so long now bubbling to the surface. "I slave away in that factory," he muttered, his voice tinged with bitterness as he finally let his feelings out. "Making things for people who don't even know we exist. Meanwhile, we just survibe, day after day."

Hyukjae listened in silence, his gaze steady as he absorbed the weight of Jungsoo's words. He knew the depths of Jungsoo's frustration, the relentless cycle of work and need that defined their existence in Hwaseong, a city that had so little to give in return.

"We deserve more than this," Jungsoo continued, his voice rising with a fervor born of pent-up frustration. "We deserve a chance to live, not just survive."

As Jungsoo slumped against the worn kitchen counter, exhaustion mixed with the bitter memories that haunted him like unwelcome ghosts. His mind, weary from the day's exhaustion and burdened by the weight of resentment, drifted back to a time long ago, to the hazy, fractured memories of a childhood marked by abandonment and survival in the unforgiving streets of Hwaseong.

His mother, a long gone presence from his early years, had become little more than a distant figure. She had met someone from those distant islands, someone who promised a life of comfort and security far removed from the hardships of their crumbling city.

For Jungsoo, her departure had been a seismic rupture, an earthquake that had shaken his existence beyond repair, a betrayal that formed part of the very fabric of his being. Left to fend for himself at a very young age, he had navigated the chaotic labyrinth of Hwaseong's streets. Merely surviving on odd jobs, he had learned early the harsh lesson that the city offered no mercy for the weak or the abandoned.

He remembered that day clearly, every single second of it. In the middle of the ever bustling Main Street, a small figure stood alone. A 5-year-old Jungsoo, clad in a tiny, worn out coat that barely shielded him from the biting chill of early morning.

In his small backpack lay a solitary sandwich wrapped in crumpled paper and a water bottle with condensation clinging to its cold surface. These meager provisions were all that connected Jungsoo to the life he had known, a life now shattered by the abandonment of his mother, as she walked away forever.

As the morning wore on, Jungsoo clung to the remnants of his old life, the sandwich in his trembling hands and the small water bottle, that felt heavier with each passing moment. Around him, life carried on with indifference, oblivious to the silent turmoil unfolding in the heart of a small child left behind in the unforgiving embrace of Hwaseong. 

Jungsoo’s anger simmered beneath his stoic exterior, fueled by the memories of all those cold nights spent alone, hungry and afraid. Hyukjae, sensing the storm of emotions boiling within his friend, approached him slowly, his voice a gentle anchor in the tempest of Jungsoo's thoughts. "She made her choice, Jungsoo," he pronounced quietly.

Jungsoo clenched his fists, the memories of his mother's departure mingling with the burning resentment toward the privileged few who lived in opulence above. "And we make ours," he replied sharply, furrowing his brow as he locked eyes with his friend. "Survive, and find our own way."

Hyukjae, always beside him, replied back with a knowing smile, a silent acknowledgment of how far they had come from their respective beginnings in Hwaseong. "We've got a roof over our heads, at least… a somewhat decent one" he remarked.

The orange headed boy nodded slowly, as he calmed down. "It's more than I had before," he admitted softly, his thoughts drifting briefly to the abandoned child he had once been, the boy left alone on a bustling street with nothing but a sandwich and a water bottle in his backpack.

Chapter Text

As Jungsoo walked through the streets on his way to the cybernetics factory the next day, a sense of determination contrasted with the weariness etched into his features. The weak morning sun struggled to pierce through the clouds of smog that hung over Hwaseong, making the narrow alleys and weathered facades look especially creepy and gloomy at that time of the day.

Amidst the flow of commuters and vendors setting up their stalls, a group of tourists from the floating islands above caught his attention. Their clean cut appearance and effortless demeanor contrasted with the reality of life in the city. They spoke in hushed tones, their laughter interrupted by occasional glances and smirks at the inhabitants carrying on through their daily lives.

Jungsoo felt their entitled gazes like daggers, he felt bitterness as their whispered remarks and gestures reminded him of the abysmal divide between their worlds. He tightened his grip on the strap of his backpack, his jaw clenched in silent defiance. They saw him as nothing more than a fleeting curiosity, an object of scorn or amusement in the middle of their leisurely exploration of a city they could never truly understand.

"Why the hell would they even want to visit Hwaseong?" Jungsoo muttered under his breath, his voice tinged with a mixture of frustration and disbelief.

He glanced at them with curiosity and resentment. They seemed oblivious to the struggles that defined daily life in that place. Their ignorance fueled the simmering anger within Jungsoo, a fire that burned hot against the backdrop of his daily struggles. He quickened his pace, determined to drown out their condescending chatter with the rhythm of his own footsteps.

The persistent knocking echoed through the apartment, cutting through the quiet solitude that Jungsoo and Hyukjae had managed to carve out. Startled from his thoughts, Jungsoo approached the door cautiously, his brow furrowed with suspicion and weariness.

“Who the hell could it be now?” He muttered under his breath.

As he swung the door open, a well-dressed man in a clean, ironed suit stood on the threshold. The agent's demeanor exuded an air of politeness, but Jungsoo's instinctive reaction was one of defiance.

"Good evening, I’m agent Choi Siwon. Excuse the sudden interruption, especially at this time of day, but I bring news from the islands," the agent announced, his voice carrying a hint of formality that only added Jungsoo's resentment. "Important news regarding your mother."

Jungsoo's hand twitched, a reflex born of years spent fending off disappointment and betrayal. Without a word, he moved to slam the door shut, a gesture fueled by the bitterness of abandonment and the distrust that had become his armor against the world outside.

Hyukjae intervened with a steadying hand on Jungsoo's shoulder. "Wait," he urged quietly, his gaze fixed on the agent with a mix of curiosity and caution. "Maybe we should hear him out."

Jungsoo hesitated, torn between the impulse to shut out the outside world and the faint curiosity sparked by Hyukjae's words. Reluctantly, he stepped back, allowing the agent to enter their cramped little apartment.

The agent proceeded carefully, sensing the tension that hung palpably in the air. As his words hung heavy in the air, Jungsoo's initial anger and suspicion gave way to a profound sense of disbelief and sorrow. The news of his mother's passing, delivered with solemnity, echoed through the walls.

"She passed away recently," the agent informed, his voice tinged with a hint of empathy that softened his formal demeanor. "Before she left, she had another child, a boy named Lee Donghae. He was born in the islands, to a local man."

The revelation landed like a crushing weight upon Jungsoo's shoulders. Lee Donghae… his half-brother, born into a world of privilege and comfort that he could have never known as his mother chose to leave him behind in Hwaseong.

Jungsoo's mind raced, trying to process the shocking news. His mother's departure had left scars that time had failed to heal, scars that now threatened to reopen with each revelation that fell from the agent's lips. A half-brother he never knew he had was suddenly in the picture.

"Donghae," Jungsoo murmured, the name barely a whisper. He thought of the brother he had never known, growing up in a world apart. 

The agent spoke of arrangements, of formalities that seemed distant and disconnected from the ache of loss that had spread through the red headed boy from the very beginning of conversation. Jungsoo quickly came to know that Lee Donghae had been abandoned by his father, news that reminded him of  his very own experience.

"I... I barely knew my mother," Jungsoo murmured, his voice thick with grief and disbelief. The idea of taking in a half-brother he had never met, thrust upon him by circumstances beyond his control, stirred a mix of apprehension and duty within him.

Hyukjae's voice, gentle yet resolute, broke through the haze of Jungsoo's thoughts. "We should find out more," he suggested quietly, his gaze unwavering as he met Jungsoo's eyes. "For your sake, and for Donghae's."

Agent Choi watched with a mixture of understanding and urgency, his own role in the unfolding drama distant with a sense of professional detachment. "Donghae needs stability," he explained gently, his words resonating with the weight of responsibility that now rested upon Jungsoo's shoulders. "As his closest living relative, you're his best chance for a stable home."

Jungsoo's voice trembled with frustration and a deep sense of inadequacy as he confronted the daunting prospect laid before him. "What stability can I offer the kid in an apartment like this?" His words cut through the air.

Jungsoo's thoughts began to spiral as he struggled with the enormity of the decision before him. The streets of Hwaseong, with their relentless cruelty, seemed ill-suited to offer refuge to a child born into privilege.

"We barely scrape by," Jungsoo continued bitterly. "How can I give him the stability he deserves?"

The agent, who had remained a quiet observer, spoke up. "Stability isn't just about material comfort," he explained calmly, his gaze steady as he addressed Jungsoo's concerns.

Jungsoo's jaw clenched. "What the fuck would someone like you know about the real meaning of stability?!" He asked, ever so slightly louder than he had intended. His words carried a raw intensity. "Do you know what it's like to grow up here while others live in luxury above?"

The agent's response was measured, his tone steady as he sought to bridge the divide between their worlds. "I may not fully grasp the challenges you face," he admitted with a hint of humility, "but I do know that family can provide a foundation."

 "And Donghae?" the orange headed boy asked quietly, with reluctant curiosity in his voice. "What kind of future can we offer him here?"

The agent's gaze softened, his demeanor shifting from professional detachment to a hint of understanding. "That's a question only you can answer," he replied gently.

"I..." Jungsoo began hesitantly, his voice betraying the tumult of conflicting emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. "I need time to think."

After the agent left, Jungsoo slumped into his old armchair. Hyukjae, ever observant of his friend's moods, moved quietly to the small kitchenette, where he retrieved a tin of tea leaves, a rare gift for Chuseok, saved for a special occasion.

Hyukjae prepared the tea, his clumsy hands moving without much grace as he boiled water and steeped the leaves. The rich aroma filled the room, making their surroundings feel a bit less hostile for an instant.

"Here, this will help clear up your mind." Hyukjae said softly, offering Jungsoo a mug filled with the steaming brew. The warmth radiating from the tea offered a comforting contrast to the chill that had taken over him.

"This is really good," He remarked softly, meeting his friend’s gaze with a hint of appreciation. "Where did you get this?"

Hyukjae chuckled lightly. "It's a gift from an old boss. Thought today could use a bit of something special."

Jungsoo nodded, his expression softening with gratitude for Hyukjae's ever present support. "I appreciate you, man. Always have."

As Jungsoo shifted in his sleep, his mind tossed and turned with a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. Flashes of fragmented memories and unanswered questions about Kim Donghae danced at the edges of his consciousness, refusing to be ignored even in the realm of dreams.

Who is Donghae? What kind of life did he have in those islands? Did he know about me?

The uncertainty tugged at him, a persistent ache that mirrored the hollow pit in his chest. Growing up in the shadows of Hwaseong had taught him resilience, but this new revelation threatened to unravel the carefully constructed walls he had built around his heart.

Can I really take care of him? How will we make this work?

The first rays of morning light filtered through the grimy window of their apartment, illuminating Jungsoo's pale, sleeping body. As consciousness slowly reclaimed him from the world of dreams, he found himself surprisingly refreshed, a sense of clarity suddenly cutting through the fog of uncertainty that had plagued his thoughts the night before.

With a determined exhale, Jungsoo sat up in his threadbare futon. Hyukjae, already awake and preparing their simple breakfast, glanced over with a mixture of concern and curiosity.

"You look... different," Hyukjae remarked cautiously, setting down a bowl of rice and dried seaweed. "Did you sleep okay?"

Jungsoo nodded, a faint but genuine smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Yeah, surprisingly well," he replied, his voice tinged with a newfound resolve. "I've made up my mind, Hyukjae."

Hyukjae paused, his gaze searching Jungsoo's face for any hint of uncertainty. "About Donghae?"

Jungsoo nodded again, the weight of his decision settling resolutely upon his shoulders. "Yeah. I'm going to take him in, even if it means one more mouth to feed."

Hyukjae's eyes widened slightly with a mix of surprise and admiration. "Are you sure, Jungsoo? It's a big step."

Jungsoo's smile grew more assured, his voice steady with conviction. "I am. He's family, Hyukjae. And family looks out for each other, no matter what. I refuse to be like my mo… like the woman who abandoned me."

However, Jungsoo's newfound resolve was laced with a simmering anger that pulsed beneath the surface. It always did. Jungsoo wondered if he would ever be free from the rage that burned within him, if he would find peace in his lifetime. As he sat at the small, wobbly table in their apartment, picking at his breakfast, Hyukjae watched him.

"You seem... tense," Hyukjae ventured, his voice gentle in the charged atmosphere.

Jungsoo looked up sharply, his sharp eyes flashing with indignation. "I can't stop thinking about Donghae's father," he admitted bitterly, his words tinged with resentment. "Some rich islander guy who had everything, and just dumps his own son like he's disposable."

Hyukjae listened in silence, knowing better than to interrupt the torrent of emotions pouring out from his friend. He had seen Jungsoo's temper flare before, usually tempered by pragmatism, but this was different, this was personal.

"How do people like that think?" Jungsoo continued. "Up there in their luxury, their feelings so detached from the reality we face every day."

Hyukjae sighed softly, his own thoughts drifting to the contrast between their lives in Hwaseong and the distant world of privilege above. "It's hard to understand," he acknowledged quietly. "Their world is different, Jungsoo. But that definitely doesn't excuse abandoning your own flesh and blood."

Jungsoo's fists clenched, the bitterness of his words a reflection of the wounds left by his mother's departure and now reopened by Donghae's abandonment, which resonated deeply with his own experience. "I just... I can't fathom it," he admitted grudgingly, his frustration palpable in the tightening of his fists. "But I won't let Donghae suffer for it. He deserves better. Remember the other day? I said I needed a reason to live and not just survive, and this might be it."

Jungsoo and Hyukjae ran through the crowded alleyways, their hearts pounding with a mixture of excitement and adrenaline. The news of Donghae’s arrival had sparked a sense of purpose and urgency within them, propelling them forward on their impromptu mission to the police station.

Jungsoo glanced over at his friend, a determined grin spreading across his face. "We’re really doing this," he panted, both exhilarated and concerned with the gravity of the situation.

Hyukjae grinned back, his eyes shining with a spark of excitement. "Yeah, we are. We’re gonna bring Donghae home."

As they turned a corner, the alluring aroma of grilled meat spread through the air, momentarily distracting them from their mission. A street vendor’s cart, laden with a variety of cooked goods, caught their attention. The vendor, preoccupied with haggling over prices with a customer, didn’t notice the two young men as they slowed their pace, eyes locked on the prize: a whole, succulent chicken.

Jungsoo exchanged a quick glance with Hyukjae, a silent agreement passing between them. In an instant, they sprang into action. Jungsoo reached out with practiced swiftness, grabbing the chicken off the cart and tucking it under his arm like a football. The vendor’s indignant shout followed them as they sprinted away, laughter bubbling up despite the risk.

"Run faster!" Hyukjae urged, his voice breathless as he gave his all to escape the vendor.

"I'm trying!" Jungsoo shot back, his own laughter mingling with the noises of the bustling street.

Their feet pounded against the ground, as they pushed through the hordes of people who barely spared them a glance. After their exhilarating escape, Jungsoo and Hyukjae climbed up to the rooftop of an abandoned building, their breaths still heavy with the rush of adrenaline. The sun was already up, brightly illuminating the decaying structure, but up here, they felt a rare sense of freedom, far above the chaotic streets of Hwaseong.

Settling down on the cracked concrete, they unwrapped their prize—the whole chicken, now slightly squished, but no less appetizing. Jungsoo tore off a leg, handing it to Hyukjae with a grin. "Here, our loot."

Hyukjae accepted it with a chuckle, his eyes twinkling with amusement and relief. "Nice breakfast," he giggled, the absurdity of their situation lightening the heavy burden of their mission.

Jungsoo laughed too, a genuine sound that echoed across the rooftop. "I can't believe we pulled that off. That vendor’s face was priceless."

Hyukjae leaned back, looking up at the sky, a rare glimpse of blue peeking through the smog as if the universe was sending them a message. "Do you think Donghae will like it here?" he asked, his tone softening with a hint of concern.

The red haired boy paused, considering the question as he chewed thoughtfully. "It won’t be easy," he admitted, doubt crossing his mind. "But we’ll make it work. He deserves a chance at a real family, even if it's here in Hwaseong."

"Ready to go?" Hyukjae asked, brushing crumbs from his lap as he stood.

Jungsoo nodded, standing up and stretching. "Yeah. Let’s go bring Donghae home."

Jungsoo and Hyukjae arrived at the police station, their resolve hardened by their shared breakfast. Agent Choi Siwon awaited them in a sterile office. His demeanor was professional, his expression unreadable.

"We've made our decision," Jungsoo announced, standing tall despite his small stature and the fatigue that lingered from their frantic run. "We'll take Donghae."

The agent nodded, seemingly unsurprised. He shuffled through some paperwork on his desk before looking up at them. "Very well. We will bring Donghae to your apartment tomorrow."

Jungsoo's jaw tightened at the mention of his apartment, barely more than a glorified shack, but he forced himself to focus on the task at hand. "What do we need to do in the meantime?" he asked, his voice steady.

The agent slid a tablet across the desk. "Just sign these forms. They’re the standard paperwork for custody transfer." He paused, his eyes alternating between the two young boys, who looked like they had barely reached adulthood. "You understand the responsibility you're taking on? This isn't something to be done lightly."

Jungsoo felt himself burning with anger at the agent’s implication, a flash of heartache igniting in his chest. "We know exactly what we're doing," he said sharply. "We're giving Donghae a home. Something you and your kind don't seem to understand."

Hyukjae placed a hand on Jungsoo's shoulder, his touch grounding. "We appreciate the paperwork," he said diplomatically, picking up a stylus and beginning to fill out the forms.

The agent watched them in silence, his expression inscrutable. When the last form was signed, he gathered the papers and stood. "I'll bring Donghae to your apartment in the evening," he confirmed, his tone formal. "Make sure you’re ready."

Jungsoo met his gaze with a fierce intensity. "We will be."

As they left the sterile confines of the police station, the weight of their decision settled heavily on their shoulders. Yet, in the middle of all the uncertainty and the daunting responsibility, there was a sense of purpose that had been absent for far too long in a place like Hwaseong, where the most Jungsoo had ever done was barely surviving.

Chapter Text

That night, in their ran down apartment, the mood was unexpectedly light. Jungsoo and Hyukjae sat cross-legged on the floor, facing their battered, cracked TV. An old game console, a relic from a past era, was hooked up to the screen, its once bright colors faded but still functional. The console was one of Hyukjae's many finds from the second-hand markets that spread across the city. He had always had an uncanny knack for finding treasures among the junk.

"Alright, ready to lose again?" Jungsoo teased, a rare grin adorning his usually serious face.

Hyukjae laughed, his eyes sparkling with good natured mischief. "You wish. I’ve been practicing while you’re on those long shifts."

Jungsoo snorted, picking up the controller. "We’ll see about that."

As their on-screen avatars jumped, kicked, and raced through pixelated landscapes, the tension and the exhaustment of the day melted away, replaced by the joy of playing together.

"I still can’t believe you found this thing," Jungsoo said during a particularly intense moment. "It’s a miracle it still works."

His friend grinned, his eyes not leaving the screen. "It’s all about knowing where to look."

Jungsoo nodded, his focus momentarily distracted as Hyukjae’s character overtook his. "Dammit, you always get me at that turn!"

Hyukjae’s laughter was infectious, and soon Jungsoo found himself laughing too. For a moment, the weight of their responsibilities seemed to fade into the background.

Later that night, he lay on his futon, staring at the ceiling. The earlier light-heartedness from their gaming session had given way to a heavier, more contemplative silence. He turned his head to see Hyukjae tidying up the area, their own little space now quiet and still.

"Hyuk," Jungsoo began, his voice barely above a whisper.

Hyukjae glanced over, noticing the shift in Jungsoo’s tone. "Yeah?"

Jungsoo sat up, his expression a rare mix of worry and vulnerability. "I’m scared, man. About what’s ahead. About taking Donghae in. It’s just... a lot."

Hyukjae moved to sit beside Jungsoo and wrapped an arm around his shoulders. "I know it’s a big responsibility," he said. "But we’ll manage. We always do."

Jungsoo shook his head, his frustration evident. "But why would they abandon him, Hyukjae? Up there, they have money, they have everything. Why just dump him like that? I can’t wrap my head around it."

Hyukjae sighed, leaning back on his hands as he gazed out the window. "People up there... they’re different. Maybe having everything makes them forget what really matters. Maybe they think money can solve all their problems, including the ones they don’t want to deal with."

Jungsoo’s fists clenched, the anger boiling beneath his fear. "It’s not fair. Donghae didn’t ask for this. Just like we didn’t ask for the lives we got." He sighed, feeling something tight inside his chest. "Do you think Donghae will be okay here?" he asked softly, more to himself than to Hyukjae. "I mean, how can this... ever be enough?"

Hyukjae, still seated beside him, looked lost in thought. "It’s going to be an adjustment, no doubt. But kids are resilient, look how far both of us have made it."

Jungsoo turned his head to face his friend, seeking reassurance. "But what if he misses it? What if he resents us for what we can’t give him?"

Hyukjae embraced him again, his gaze distant as he considered the question. "He might, at first. It’s only natural, but I think he’ll become used to this."

Jungsoo nodded slowly, wanting to believe in his friend's words. "I hope you’re right. I just want to give him a better life than what we had."

As Jungsoo lay there with Hyukjae’s arms around him, he couldn't stop overthinking about what was to come. Barely an adult himself, he had been forced to grow up too fast. The thought of taking on the responsibility of another life, especially a child from such a different background, felt so daunting.

"Do you ever feel like we’re just kids pretending to be adults?" Jungsoo’s voice was soft.

Hyukjae looked at him, his eyes softer than ever. "All the time," he admitted. "We’ve had to grow up fast, but that doesn’t mean we don’t still have a lot to learn."

Jungsoo sighed. "It’s just... sometimes I feel like I’m barely holding it together. How can I be a good guardian for Donghae when I’m still figuring things out myself?"

“What if we never figure things out completely?”, his friend murmured, still holding onto him. “What if we spend our whole lives chasing answers, worrying about getting everything right, only to realize, in the end, that no one ever really has them?"

Jungsoo raised an eyebrow, a slight smirk forming on his lips. “Since when did you get so deep, huh? Next thing I know, you'll be quoting philosophers.”

Hyukjae chuckled, letting go of him nudging him playfully. “I’ve always been deep, you just never noticed through my sensational charms.”

Jungsoo’s smirk softened as he looked at his friend. Despite Hyukjae’s usual carefree attitude, he knew there was a lot more going on behind those playful eyes than he often let on. Growing up in Hwaseong, they had learned to shoulder burdens neither had been prepared for, but somehow, they balanced each other out. Hyukjae’s lightheartedness countered Jungsoo’s worries, just as Jungsoo’s steadiness kept them grounded. Together, as two older brothers, they'd make sure Donghae would be okay, because despite everything, they always found a way to keep moving forward.

The next day, as Jungsoo walked home from another shift, his mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Donghae's impending arrival. The sun was setting, and the air was thick with the usual smog.

As he rounded a corner, a shiny black car caught his attention, strongly contrasting against the worn out backdrop of Hwaseong. His steps slowed, curiosity peaked.

The car's door swung open, and out stepped the familiar figure of agent Choi, his suit pristine and his demeanor as composed as ever. Jungsoo's heart skipped a beat, anxiety and anticipation flooding through him.

"Jungsoo," the agent called out, his voice carried a professional, yet slightly warmer tone than before. "I'm glad I caught you."

Jungsoo approached warily, wiping sweat from his forehead. "Is Donghae with you?" he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

The agent nodded, gesturing towards the car. "Yes, he's in the back seat. We were headed to your apartment and thought you might appreciate a ride."

Jungsoo hesitated, glancing at the car and then back at agent Choi. The offer of a ride was tempting, especially after a long day of work, but the sight of the vehicle felt almost surreal in this part of the city.

"Alright," he said finally, standing as straight as he could and pushing his shoulders back to try to look determined. "Thanks. It’ll be faster this way."

As he approached the car, the agent opened the rear door, revealing a younger boy sitting inside. Donghae's wide eyes met Jungsoo's, a mix of curiosity and apprehension mirrored in both their gazes. Jungsoo's heart ached seeing the boy's uncertainty, a reflection of his own fears and hopes.

His heart skipped a beat as the nerves came to get him. He felt awkward and out of place, uncertain of how to bridge the gap between them.

"Hey, Donghae," Jungsoo said, his voice faltering slightly. "I'm Jungsoo. It's... it's good to meet you."

Donghae nodded, clutching a backpack to his chest. "Hi," he murmured, his voice barely a whisper.

Jungsoo slid into the car beside him, feeling the plush seats sink under his weight. He glanced at Donghae, trying to muster a reassuring smile but unsure if he succeeded.

The car glided smoothly through the streets of Hwaseong. Jungsoo shifted uncomfortably, his hands resting awkwardly in his lap.

"How was the trip?" he asked, attempting to break the silence, though his voice sounded foreign to his own ears.

Donghae shrugged, his eyes darting around the unfamiliar surroundings. "It was okay," he replied softly.

Jungsoo nodded, unsure of what else to say. The reality of the situation felt overwhelming. Here he was, barely an adult himself, thrust into the role of guardian for a boy who had known a life far removed from his own struggles.

The agent, sensing the tension, spoke up from the front seat. "Donghae is in good hands, Jungsoo. It's an adjustment, but I'm confident you'll make it work."

Jungsoo glanced at the agent, feeling a mixture of gratitude and irritation. It was easy for him to say from the comfort of his privileged position. "Yeah," he replied, his voice tight. "We’ll do our best."

The car came to a stop outside the dilapidated building Jungsoo called home. The contrast between the opulent vehicle and the run down apartment complex was jarring. Jungsoo took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves.

As they stepped out, the agent gave a small nod. "I'll leave Donghae in your care. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to contact us."

Jungsoo nodded, extending a hand to Dongthae, who hesitantly ended up refusing i. "Thanks," Jungsoo said, though the word felt hollow. "We’ll be fine."

They walked toward the building, Donghae’s gaze avoiding his whenever they locked eyes.

Jungsoo noticed Donghae trembling beside him. The boy’s unease was palpable, his smaller frame shivering with each step closer to their humble home.

"It's okay, Donghae," Jungsoo said softly, trying to reassure him despite his own apprehension. He placed a gentle hand on Donghae’s shoulder, offering what little comfort he could muster.

Donghae glanced up at him, eyes wide with fear and uncertainty. "Is this where we're going to live?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Jungsoo nodded, swallowing the lump in his throat. "Yeah, it’s not much, but it’s safe. We’ll make it comfortable for you."

Donghae ended up suddenly gripping Jungsoo’s hand, seeking reassurance in their physical connection. Jungsoo wished he could offer more, a better place to call home, but this was all they had.

Hyukjae appeared at the entrance of the building. "Hey, Donghae," he greeted gently. "Welcome to your new home. It might not look like much from the outside, but inside, it’s cozy."

Donghae glanced up at Hyukjae, his eyes searching for reassurance. Hyukjae stroked his hair, offering a reassuring smile. Donghae shook his head, as if trying to shake off the sensation of being touched by the older boy. "You’re safe here," he said softly. "We’ll take care of you."

As they settled in, Jungsoo could sense Donghae’s fear beginning to diminish, replaced by curiosity. Hyukjae made small talk, lightening the mood with anecdotes about their neighborhood and its quirks. Slowly, Donghae’s shoulders relaxed, the tension easing from his young face.

"So, Donghae," Hyukjae began cheerfully, "where are you from originally?"

Donghae glanced up, his fingers tracing the edge of the game board. "Xanadu," he replied softly. "But I don’t remember much of it. My dad moved us to Erewhon when I was really little."

Jungsoo’s eyebrows raised slightly at the mention of the names of those islands, names that sounded completely foreign to his ears. "That must’ve been quite a change," he remarked, trying to keep the conversation light even if he didn’t really understand where his own brother came from.

Donghae nodded, a hint of sadness flickering in his eyes. "Yeah, everything was so different. But I liked the aquarium there."

Hyukjae smiled warmly. "Aquarium, huh? I bet the animals there were beautiful. What else did you like about living there?"

Donghae paused, deep in thought. "The food," he finally said with a small smile. "We had avocado all the time. And abura soba."

Jungsoo chuckled softly. "I could go for some noodles right now."

Hyukjae nodded enthusiastically. "Me too! Maybe we’ll find a good place around here."

"So, Donghae, what did you like doing for fun back in the islands?"

Donghae glanced around the room, a faint smile touching his lips. "I liked exploring the gardens," he replied, his voice soft but growing more confident. "There were so many flowers and trees. And sometimes, I'd find little ponds with beautiful fish." He looked at them both, curiosity starting to spark. "What’s it like living in Hwaseong?" he asked tentatively. "Is it always this busy and noisy?"

Jungsoo chuckled. "Yeah, it can get pretty chaotic," he admitted. "But you get used to it. There’s always something happening, someone selling something, or playing music."

Hyukjae nodded in agreement. "And the people here? They’ve got stories for days. You’ll meet all kinds… some friendly, some... well, let’s just say interesting."

Donghae smiled, feeling a little more at ease. "What about school? Do you go to school here?"

Jungsoo shook his head. "I used to, but not anymore. I work at a factory now, making stuff for the people up in the islands."

Hyukjae nudged him gently. "Jungsoo’s our resident tech expert," he said with a grin. "He can fix just about anything."

Jungsoo rolled his eyes playfully. "I try."

Donghae’s gaze shifted to Hyukjae. "And what do you do?"

Hyukjae leaned back, considering the question. "I do odd jobs here and there," he explained casually. "Whatever keeps the bills paid and food on the table. Plus, I’m the master of finding treasures in flea markets."

Donghae looked intrigued. "Treasures?"

Hyukjae nodded enthusiastically. "Oh yeah. You’d be surprised what people throw away. One man’s trash is another man’s... well, slightly used but still awesome treasure."

Donghae looked at Hyukjae with curiosity as they settled down after their lively conversation. His eyes alternated between Jungsoo and Hyukjae, trying to piece together their connection.

"So, why does Hyukjae live with you?" Donghae asked, his voice filled with genuine curiosity.

Jungsoo smiled softly, glancing at Hyukjae before answering. "Hyukjae and I have been friends since we were kids," he explained. "We grew up together here in Hwaseong. He’s... well, he’s like my brother."

Hyukjae chuckled, ruffling Jungsoo's hair playfully. "Yeah, we’ve been through a lot together," he added, his tone affectionate. "Jungsoo’s always been the serious one, keeping us out of trouble. Me? I’m the one who drags him into it."

Jungsoo rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "And somehow, we always manage to find our way out of it."

Donghae looked between them, a small smile tugging at his lips. "That’s really cool," he said softly. "It must be nice to have someone like that."

Jungsoo nodded, his expression serious for a moment. "Yeah, it is," he said sincerely. "We’ve got each other’s backs, no matter what."

Hyukjae nodded in agreement. "And now, we’ve got yours too, Donghae," he added, his voice gentle but earnest as he nudged the younger boy’s shoulder. "You’re part of our team now."

Donghae’s smile widened, a sense of warmth and belonging settling within him. "Thank you," he said quietly. "I’m... I’m glad I’m here."

As night fell over Hwaseong, Jungsoo tucked Donghae into his bed, the boy’s eyes heavy with exhaustion but also signs of relief. Jungsoo sat beside him for a moment.

"We’ll take care of you," Jungsoo whispered, his voice barely audible in the quiet room.

Donghae nodded sleepily, his hand finding his brother’s once more. However, he lay awake on the shared futon, his thoughts racing. Jungsoo lay beside him, their bodies close in the small space. He could sense the boy's restlessness, the quiet sighs and occasional shifts revealing the turmoil within him. He turned to face him.

"Hey, Donghae," he murmured, breaking the silence. "Are you okay?"

Donghae hesitated for a moment, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. "Jungsoo," he began softly, "my dad... he was never around."

Jungsoo listened, his heart going out to the boy beside him. He knew there was more to Donghae’s story, a weight that he carried despite his young age.

"He left me alone for days," Donghae continued. "He went out to party, to gamble. He says... he said he’d be back soon, but..." His voice faltered, the pain evident in his words.

Jungsoo reached out, placing a comforting hand on Donghae’s shoulder. "I’m sorry, Donghae," he said softly. "You shouldn’t have to go through that."

Donghae turned to look at him, his eyes reflecting pure sadness. "I thought... I thought maybe he’d change after Mom passed," he admitted, his voice trembling. "But it’s been like this for so long. The social services intervened and took me away from him when he tried to sell me, in order to sustain his lifestyle."

Jungsoo squeezed Donghae’s shoulder gently. He understood the ache of longing for a parent’s presence, the weight of disappointment when they fell short.

"You don’t have to worry about that here," Jungsoo assured him, his voice steady. "You know, Donghae," Jungsoo began quietly, his voice tinged with frustration, "up there in the islands, life seems so... empty. People are obsessed with pleasure, with their own comfort, while down here, we're struggling just to get by."

Donghae listened intently, sensing the depth of Jungsoo's disillusionment.

"It's like they've forgotten what really matters," Jungsoo continued, his voice gaining strength. "Even just basic decency. Everything is about indulgence, about escaping reality."

Donghae nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful. "Do you think they're happy?" he asked.

Jungsoo sighed. "Maybe they think they are," he mused, "but how can you be truly happy when you're constantly chasing after the next thrill, the next distraction? It's all so... shallow."

As they drifted into sleep, Jungsoo held onto that sense of purpose. For in Donghae's presence, he found a reason to keep fighting, to defy the emptiness that threatened to engulf them, and to strive for a future where their lives held not just survival, but true meaning.

Chapter Text

Jungsoo rose early. Despite the weariness from the previous day’s work, he still felt a sense of determination. Today, they would start anew, together.

He rummaged through the provisions in their pantry, a few frozen waffles and a carton of eggs from Hyukjae’s latest adventure at the market. He set a skillet on their old stove, and the faint sizzle as it heated up echoed in the quiet of the morning.

Hyukjae emerged from his bed in the corner, his tousled black hair and playful grin a familiar sight. “Morning,” he greeted cheerfully, rubbing his eyes as he shuffled over to join his friend.

“Morning,” Jungsoo replied with a half smile, already cracking eggs into the skillet. The scent of cooking eggs and the sweetness of the waffles began to fill the air.

Donghae emerged next, his sleepy eyes made him seem even younger than his years. He joined them at the table, curiously watching Jungsoo elegantly flip the eggs in the skillet.

“Are those waffles?” Donghae asked, with a hint of excitement in his voice.

Hyukjae chuckled, taking a seat beside Donghae. “They’re a delicacy in these parts,” he teased, reaching for the syrup bottle.

Soon, the three of them were gathered around the table, their plates and mugs filled with the breakfast Jungsoo had prepared. The waffles were crisp on the outside, still warm and slightly soft inside, while the eggs were cooked to perfection, their yolks just beginning to set.

As they ate, conversation flowed easily between them, a mix of plans for the day ahead, memories of their adventures, and even some jokes about Hyukjae’s latest finds.

“This tastes better than the fancy brunches in the islands,” Donghae remarked between bites, a genuine smile brightening his face.

Jungsoo looked at him, a sense of pride swelling within him. “Glad you think so,” he replied warmly. “We may not have much, but at least we’ve got good company.”

Hyukjae raised his mug in agreement. “Cheers to that.”

As he prepared to leave for work, he was aware that today was crucial for his brother’s future. Hyukjae had promised to take care of him, and together they would tackle the paperwork that stood between Donghae and his chance at attending high school.

"You'll be okay with Hyukjae today, right?" Jungsoo asked, a hint of concern in his voice as he looked at his younger brother.

Donghae nodded earnestly, a determined look in his eyes. "I'll be fine," he replied with a small smile. "We've got this."

Hyukjae grinned, slinging an arm around Donghae's shoulders in a playful gesture. "Don't worry, Jungsoo," he reassured with a wink. "We'll have everything sorted by the time you get back."

Jungsoo nodded gratefully, his expression softening. "Thanks, Hyukjae," he said sincerely. "I appreciate it."

With a final glance at Donghae, who stood tall despite the uncertainty around him, he grabbed his jacket and headed out the door.

Hyukjae dug out the necessary paperwork, his brows furrowed in concentration as he sifted through the documents. Donghae watched him closely.

"So, what's high school like?" he asked, breaking the silence as the older boy scanned the documents.

Hyukjae looked up, a pensive expression crossing his face. "Well," he began slowly, "it's different for everyone. But it's a chance to learn new things, meet new people. You'll like it."

Donghae nodded, his gaze drifting to the window. "I hope so," he murmured quietly. "I want to learn."

Hyukjae smiled reassuringly. "You will," he said confidently. "We'll make sure of it."

Donghae hesitated for a moment before speaking up. He fidgeted with the edge of a well-worn book, one he had brought with him from Erewhon.

"Hyukjae," he began softly, his voice tinged with uncertainty, "back in Erewhon, I had a private tutor."

The older boy paused, his brows knitting together in curiosity as he turned to face Donghae. "A tutor?" he repeated, with a mix of surprise and intrigue in his tone.

He nodded, his gaze fixed on the book in his hands. "Yeah," he continued, his words coming slowly as if he were carefully choosing each one, "my mom wanted me to have the best education. She thought it would give me a better future."

Hyukjae studied Donghae for a moment. He knew very little about his life before they crossed paths in Hwaseong, but the glimpse into his past painted a picture of privilege and expectation that had nothing to do with their current reality.

"What was it like?" He asked gently, his voice betraying a hint of curiosity and perhaps a touch of envy.

"It was... different," he admitted quietly. "I had lessons every day at home. Math, science, languages... whatever my tutor thought I needed to learn."

Hyukjae nodded slowly, absorbing Donghae's words. He couldn't help but feel a pang of resentment, not toward Donghae but toward the inequalities that defined their world. "It sounds like it was a lot," He ventured cautiously, unsure of how to navigate the topic.

Donghae shrugged, a small smile forming on his thin lips. "It was," he agreed softly, "but I guess I learned a lot too. And now... now I have you and Jungsoo to help me learn more."

Hyukjae felt a warmth spread through his chest at Donghae's words, a soft, fuzzy feeling that made him smile without even realizing it. 

With renewed determination, they dove back into the paperwork. Hours passed in a blur of forms and phone calls, their efforts fueled by the goal of giving the younger boy a better future.

As the sun began to set, covering the small apartment in gloom, Hyukjae crouched beside an old chest in a corner. With a mischievous grin, he rummaged through its contents until his fingers closed around a box.

"Donghae, check this out," He called excitedly, proudly holding up the relic.

Donghae, intrigued, approached with cautious curiosity. His eyes widened as Hyukjae gently blew away the dust, revealing his vintage game console inside the box.

"Whoa," Donghae breathed, kneeling beside Hyukjae to get a better look. "What is that?"

Hyukjae's grin widened. "This," he declared proudly, "is my most prized treasure. A game console."

Donghae reached out to touch it, marveling at the clunky design and faded colors. "I've heard about these," he admitted, a hint of wonder in his voice. "But I never thought I'd see one."

Hyukjae chuckled. "You're in for a treat," he promised, gesturing toward a stack of game cartridges nearby. "And look what I've got here."

He carefully selected a cartridge labeled "Super Mario Bros." and inserted it into the console. The screen lit up with the iconic start screen, the image of Mario inviting them into a world of adventure.

Donghae's eyes sparkled with recognition as he stared at the console. "Is that... Super Mario!?" he asked in disbelief, his voice tinged with excitement.

Hyukjae nodded enthusiastically. "You know it?" he asked, surprised.

Donghae chuckled softly, his smile warm. "Well, this game," he said, pointing at the screen labeled "Super Mario Bros.", "is one of the most famous video games ever made. It's about a plumber named Mario who goes on adventures to save a princess."

Hyukjae's eyes widened with newfound interest as Donghae explained. "Really?" he asked, glancing at the cartridge already inserted into the console. "I had no idea, I just found it fun."

Donghae nodded, a grin spreading across his face. "Yeah, it's a classic. I used to play a newer version of it all the time back home." Donghae's eyes sparkled with excitement as he explained each character and their unique abilities.

"And this is Yoshi," Donghae exclaimed eagerly, pointing to the screen where Mario was riding the lovable green dinosaur through a colorful level. “He can eat enemies and even fly sometimes!"

Hyukjae watched with fascination, a grin spreading across his face. "Cute little guy," he chuckled, nodding appreciatively. "In that case, I think I like Mario."

Donghae laughed, his enthusiasm infectious. "Mario is awesome too," he agreed wholeheartedly, guiding Hyukjae through the game mechanics.

Hyukjae nodded knowingly, his own excitement mirrored in Donghae's enthusiasm. "Games like these," he explained, "they're not just about entertainment. They're about memories, about connecting with something bigger."

Donghae nodded in understanding, his gaze lingering on the screen as Mario embarked on another level. For a moment, the challenges of their lives faded into the background, replaced by the simple joy of discovering Super Mario together.

By the time Jungsoo returned from work, weary but hopeful, he found Hyukjae and Donghae sitting at the kitchen table, a stack of completed paperwork before them. Donghae looked up, a relieved smile spreading across his face.

"We did it," the younger boy announced proudly.

Jungsoo smiled broadly, his dimple showing. "That's great news!" he exclaimed, crossing the room to clap Hyukjae on the shoulder gratefully. "Thank you, both of you."

Hyukjae shrugged nonchalantly, but there was pride in his eyes. "Just doing what needed to be done," he said with a grin.

He looked up at his friend, noticing the plastic bag he carried in his hand. He nudged Donghae, who sat beside him. "Look what Jungsoo brought!"

Donghae looked up with a surprised smile as Jungsoo approached, setting down a couple bags of chips and a six-pack of beer on the table. He also placed a can of a soft drink beside Donghae.

"I thought we could use a little treat tonight," he explained, forgetting his exhaustion from the day's work as he saw their expressions.

Hyukjae cracked open a beer, handing one to his friend with a nod of appreciation. "Cheers to that," he said, raising his can. 

Jungsoo chuckled, clinking his can against Hyukjae's. "Cheers," he echoed, feeling a sense of contentment settle over them at that moment.

As the evening progressed, the three boys sat together on cushions, the remains of their snacks and drinks scattered on the table between them. Donghae shifted uneasily beside his brother.

"Jungsoo," Donghae began softly, his voice tinged with uncertainty, "tomorrow... I'm starting school."

He turned towards the kid. "That's good, Donghae," he replied warmly, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You're going to do great."

Donghae nodded slowly, his fingers fidgeting with the edge of his empty can. "I know, but... what if I don't fit in?" he asked quietly, his eyes searching Jungsoo's for reassurance. He looked down at his hands, hesitating for a moment before continuing. "Back in Erewhon, everything was so different," he began, his voice wavering slightly as his eyes filled with tears. "I had my own room, a private tutor... but I never really felt like I belonged."

Jungsoo and Hyukjae listened intently, their silence encouraging him to continue.

"My dad," he went on, his voice barely above a whisper, "he was always busy with work or... or out with his friends." He paused, his gaze distant as memories flickered across his mind. "After my mom passed away, it was like... like he didn't know what to do with me."

Hyukjae reached out, resting a hand on Donghae's thigh in a gesture of comfort. "I'm sorry, Donghae," he murmured softly.

Donghae shook his head slightly, a small, sad smile on his lips. "It's okay," he replied, his voice steadier now. "Being here with you... it's different. I feel like I have a place."

Chapter Text

The next morning, Hyukjae walked alongside Donghae through the streets of Hwaseong towards the school. The morning air was crisp, foreshadowing the cold winter that was to come.

"You nervous, little man?" he asked with a grin, nudging the boy playfully.

Donghae chuckled nervously, swatting Hyukjae's hand away from him. "Stop it," he said, trying to maintain his composure.

Hyukjae laughed. "Relax, you're gonna be fine," he reassured him. "Just remember, I'm always here if you need anything."

Donghae smiled gratefully, secretly glad for all the teasing even if he liked to pretend to hate it. "Thanks, Hyuk," he said, feeling a bit more at ease as they approached the gates.

That afternoon, Hyukjae waited anxiously at the apartment for Donghae to return from school. He heard the door open and turned to see him standing there, tears streaming down his face.

"What happened?" he asked, rushing to his side.

The boy sniffled, trying to compose himself. "They... they made fun of me," he managed to say between sobs. "They called me a rich boy, even though... even though I’m not anymore."

Hyukjae's heart sank, anger flaring up inside him at the thought of such a sweet boy being bullied. "I'm so sorry, Donghae," he murmured softly. "They're just jerks. Don't listen to them."

He wiped his tears with the sleeve of his jacket. "They... they told me to go back to the islands," he choked out, his voice trembling.

Hyukjae pulled him into an embrace, holding him tightly. "It's OK, baby" he murmured, trying to make his voice sound as sweet and comforting as he could. "They're just ignorant. You don't deserve that."

Jungsoo, who had just walked in from work, came over to them, visibly concerned. "What's going on?" he asked, seeing his brother’s tear-streaked face as his friend held him.

He took a shaky breath, trying to steady himself. "They made fun of me," he admitted. "They said I should go back to where I came from, as if I could."

Jungsoo's expression hardened with anger, but he remained calm for his brother's sake. "Those kids don't know anything about you," he said firmly, his voice steady. "You belong here with us now."

Donghae nodded silently. "I thought... I thought things would be different," he murmured.

Jungsoo furrowed his brow. "We'll talk to your school tomorrow," he promised, his tone resolute. "They need to understand what's going on."

Later that evening, wanting to contribute and show his gratitude, Donghae approached his brother with a hopeful smile, a little more nervous than usual.

"Hey, um... I want to cook dinner for you guys tonight," he announced, his voice a mix of hesitation and determination.

Hyukjae looked up from his spot on the couch, raising an eyebrow in surprise. "Oh? What are you planning to make?"

The boy nodded eagerly, though there was a hint of nervous energy in his movement. "I found some rice, eggs, and sausage in the pantry," he explained. "I thought I could make omurice for us."

Jungsoo exchanged a quick glance with his friend before smiling warmly at the boy's initiative. "That sounds great, Donghae," he said, his voice full of encouragement despite his uncertainty. "We’d love to try your cooking."

"Okay, I’ll get started then," he said, turning toward the kitchen with an enthusiastic bounce in his step.

Hyukjae followed him with a supportive pat on the shoulder. "We’ll be waiting," he said, flashing him a grin. "And don’t worry, we’ll be your taste testers."

As he began to chop vegetables and cook the rice, the kitchen filled with sounds of clanging utensils and sizzling pans. Though his heart was in the right place, his technique wasn’t. The rice stuck to the bottom of the pan and the eggs were slightly overcooked. Despite the mishaps, he continued, determined to present his best effort.

When he finally plated the omurice, he stood back for a moment, admiring the slightly lumpy mound of mushy rice hidden beneath an egg blanket that had a few burnt edges. He garnished it with a generous drizzle of ketchup, masking some of the more well-done parts, and brought it to the table with a proud smile.

Jungsoo and Hyukjae sat up, readying themselves for the meal. Both exchanged silent looks of apprehension but quickly plastered on their best supportive smiles.

"Here it is!" he announced excitedly, setting the plates in front of them.

Hyukjae picked up his spoon, his expression unreadable for a moment as he scooped up a bite and placed it in his mouth. There was a long pause as he chewed slowly, his eyes shifting towards Jungsoo, who was doing his best to maintain his poker face.

“This is…” he began, swallowing with what seemed like a bit of effort. “…really good, Donghae," he finished, though his voice was a little too enthusiastic, as if trying to convince himself as much as anyone else. He gave him a thumbs up, his cheeks slightly puffed with food he hadn’t managed to finish chewing.

Jungsoo took a bite next. His expression stayed neutral as he carefully chewed, then smiled with a sincerity that almost masked the strain. “You’ve really put effort into this,” he said kindly. “We appreciate it a lot, Donghae.”

Donghae’s chest swelled with pride at their praise, completely missing the slight discomfort in their voices. "Thanks! I’m glad you guys like it," he said, his eyes bright with happiness.

As they ate, Hyukjae struggled to get through more bites. "You, uh… really got creative with the flavors here," he added, trying to keep the tone light as he discreetly moved a slightly burnt piece of egg to the side of his plate.

Jungsoo, being more composed, nodded in agreement, though the rice sticking to his teeth made it hard to keep the smile up. "Yeah, it's… different, in a good way," he managed.

As they sat around the table, each bite was an exercise in willpower, but they continued to encourage him with smiles and nods. His happiness was all that mattered at that moment. He had tried so hard to make something special for them, and they weren’t about to ruin that with the truth.

Hyukjae, despite the struggle, couldn’t resist his playful nature. Leaning over, he ruffled Donghae’s hair gently. "Maybe next time I’ll show you some of my cooking tips," he teased.

Donghae laughed, oblivious to the hidden meaning. "Sure! But I think this turned out pretty well, huh?"

"Yeah, Donghae," Jungsoo said softly. "You did great."

"I hope you two are serious!" Donghae protested half-heartedly, trying to smooth down his tousled hair.

Hyukjae chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "You're too easy to tease, Donghae," he teased, winking at him.

Donghae rolled his eyes but couldn't hide the smile that tugged at his lips. "Yeah, yeah," he replied, feigning annoyance. "Just eat your food."

Jungsoo watched the playful banter between them with a fond smile. "Leave the kid alone, Hyukjae," he said, though his eyes twinkled with amusement.

Hyukjae grinned, nudging Donghae playfully. "Aw, come on, kid," he continued, his tone teasing but gentle. "You know I'm just messing with you."

Donghae glanced at Hyukjae, his expression softening. "Yeah, I know," he admitted. "It's okay."

The older boy leaned back in his chair, satisfied with his reaction. "Good," he said with a grin. "Now, let's finish this delicious cuisine before it gets cold."

That night, as they settled into their bed, Jungsoo turned to his younger brother, his voice quiet in the dim light of the room.

"You know, Donghae, living here in Hwaseong, you learn to take things one day at a time. Each day is a new conquest, a new victory. It's the only way to stay sane in this place."

The younger boy listened, absorbing his brother’s words. "I think I understand," he said quietly. "One day at a time."

"Exactly," he replied. "We can't control everything, but we can control today. And today, we're okay. Tomorrow, we'll figure it out when it comes."

Chapter Text

Saturday morning arrived with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. Hyukjae decided to take Donghae grocery shopping, eager to show him more of the city and how they managed their daily lives. The market of Hwaseong was a stark contrast to the order and cleanliness of the islands, and Donghae's wide eyes reflected his unease.

"Stay close, Donghae," Hyukjae said, draping an arm around the younger boy's shoulders protectively. "It can get pretty wild here."

He nodded, clutching the older boy’s jacket tightly. "It's so... chaotic," he murmured, his eyes darting around.

Hyukjae chuckled. "Yeah, it's quite insane, but you'll get used to it."

They weaved through the crowd, stopping at various stalls. Hyukjae haggled with vendors, expertly negotiating prices for vegetables, rice, and other essentials. Donghae watched in awe, impressed by his friend’s skills.

"How do you know what to buy?" he asked, trying to take mental notes.

"It's all about knowing what you need and what you can afford," Hyukjae explained. "You learn to make do with what you've got."

At one point, they stopped at a stall selling dried fish. The vendor, an elderly woman with a kind face, greeted them warmly. "Ah, Hyukjae! How's my favorite customer?"

"Doing well, Mrs. Park," he replied with a grin. "This is Donghae, my new little worst enemy."

Mrs. Park smiled at Donghae, handing him a small piece of dried fish to taste. "Welcome, Donghae. You have a good older brother here. He always looks out for everyone."

Donghae tried the fish, finding the flavor unusual but not unpleasant. "Thank you," he said politely, feeling a bit more at ease.

As they continued shopping, Hyukjae pointed out different items, explaining their uses and how to choose the best quality. Donghae listened attentively, absorbing the information.

"Do you miss the islands?" Hyukjae asked casually as they walked.

Donghae hesitated before answering. "Sometimes," he admitted. "It was... easier there. But I like being here with you and Jungsoo."

Hyukjae smiled, giving Donghae a reassuring squeeze.

They finished their shopping and started making their way back to the apartment, their bags filled with groceries. Back at the apartment, Jungsoo greeted them with a smile. "How was the market?"

"Crazy," Donghae replied, laughing. "But Hyukjae made it fun."

"Good to hear," Jungsoo said, helping them unload the groceries. "We'll make a true Hwaseong resident out of you yet."

Sunday morning, however, dawned with a sense of stillness. Hyukjae had managed to land a job painting a flat in a nearby building, leaving Jungsoo and Donghae to spend the day together.

"Hyukjae's got a job today," Jungsoo informed his brother over breakfast. "He'll be out until late."

Donghae nodded, trying to mask his disappointment. "Okay," he said, poking at his rice.

Jungsoo noticed the change in Donghae's demeanor. "Don't worry, he'll be back before you know it. Besides, we can hang out together today. What do you say?"

"Sure," Donghae replied, offering a small smile.

They spent the morning tidying up the apartment. Jungsoo tried to keep the atmosphere light, cracking jokes and sharing stories from his own childhood. Donghae laughed along, but he couldn't shake the feeling of Hyukjae's absence.

In the afternoon, they sat down to watch a movie on their TV. They both got engrossed in the over-the-top fight scenes and dramatic plot twists, but as the day wore on, Donghae's thoughts kept drifting back to Hyukjae. He missed his playful teasing, his easy going nature, and the way he made everything seem less daunting.

"Do you think Hyukjae is okay?" He asked suddenly, breaking the silence.

Jungsoo looked at him, surprised by the question. "Of course he is," he reassured. "He's probably having a blast painting that flat. Why do you ask?"

The younger boy shrugged, staring at the screen but not really watching. "I just... miss him, I guess."

Jungsoo smiled gently. "It's okay to miss him. He's a big part of our lives. But he'll be back soon, and you can tell him all about how boring I was today."

Donghae chuckled at that. "You're not boring, Jungsoo. I just like having him around."

As the sun began to set, the door finally creaked open, and their friend walked in, looking exhausted but satisfied. "Hey, guys," he greeted, dropping his bag by the door. "I'm back."

Donghae's face lit up. "Hyukjae! How was the job?"

"Not bad," he replied, ruffling his hair affectionately. "Got a decent pay, and the flat doesn't look half bad now."

Jungsoo stood up, stretching. "Dinner's almost ready. Why don't you take a break and join us?"

As they settled in for the night, Donghae felt a deep sense of contentment. The day had felt incomplete without Hyukjae, but now that they were all together again, everything seemed right.

"Goodnight, Hyukjae," Donghae said as they prepared for bed.

"Goodnight, kiddo," Hyukjae replied with a smile.

The following morning, Hyukjae woke up early to continue painting at the flat he had started the day before. Donghae, accustomed to the older boy walking him to school, found himself facing the streets of Hwaseong alone for the first time.

As he stepped out of their apartment building, he took a deep breath, trying to muster the same confidence his friend always seemed to radiate. The streets were alive with activity, people rushing past on their way to work or school, vendors setting up their stalls, and the occasional flying car whizzing above.

He kept his gaze fixed straight ahead, focusing on the familiar route to school that Hyukjae had shown him. He felt a mixture of nerves and excitement, knowing that this independence was a small step towards adapting to life in Hwaseong.

As he approached the school gates, Donghae glanced back reflexively, half-expecting to see Hyukjae's playful grin or hear his encouraging words. Instead, there was only the busy cityscape, indifferent to his solitary journey.

Taking a deep breath, Donghae straightened up his posture and entered the school grounds. He was determined to prove to himself that he could navigate this new environment on his own, just as he had adapted to so many changes since coming to Hwaseong.

After school, as he walked back home through the now-familiar streets, he couldn't wait to tell Hyukjae about his day. Despite the initial apprehension, he was beginning to feel more at ease in Hwaseong, thanks in no small part to the support and guidance of the older boys.

When he finally arrived back at their apartment building, Hyukjae was waiting outside, paint-splattered but smiling warmly. "Hey, Donghae! How was your first solo trip to school?"

Donghae grinned, feeling a rush of relief at seeing his friend again. "It was okay," he replied honestly. "I missed having you there, though."

Hyukjae tousled Donghae's hair affectionately. "You did great, kiddo. I knew you could handle it."

Chapter Text

As days turned into weeks, Donghae found himself growing more accustomed to the rhythm of their lives. Hyukjae’s teasing and playful affection, once unfamiliar and slightly unnerving, began to feel like a comforting routine.

One evening, as both of them were cleaning up after dinner, Hyukjae playfully nudged Donghae with his elbow. "Hey, kiddo, did you know I'm actually a superhero in disguise? I’m Eunhyuk "

Donghae raised an eyebrow, suppressing a smile. "Oh really? What's your superpower then, Eunhyuk ?"

Hyukjae struck a dramatic pose, pretending to flex his muscles. "I have the incredible ability to eat an entire pizza in under a minute!"

Donghae couldn't help but laugh. "That's not a superpower, Hyuk. That's just you being greedy."

Hyukjae feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart dramatically. "Ouch, Ddohae! That hurts. You wound me with your words."

Donghae shook his head, grinning. "Well, maybe you should use your superpower for good and help us finish the leftovers instead."

Hyukjae chuckled, picking up the plates. "Alright, alright. But only because I'm a superhero, and superheroes always do the right thing."

As they lounged in the living room, having cleaned everything up, Hyukjae mindlessly played with Donghae's hair. "You're starting to look more like a city kid, Ddohae," he teased.

The boy, who had previously been reserved and uncertain about his antics, now found himself smiling. "Maybe that's not such a bad thing," he replied, unable to suppress a chuckle.

Hyukjae pulled out an old, worn blanket and draped it over both of them. "Cozy enough for you, kiddo?" he teased, wiggling his eyebrows.

Donghae rolled his eyes but snuggled under the blanket. "I guess you're not completely useless."

He grinned, slinging his arm over the younger boy's shoulders and pulling him closer. "High praise, coming from you. I'll take it."

Jungsoo, who was reading in the corner, looked up with an unreadable expression. "Looks like you're getting used to Hyukjae's charms," he remarked casually.

The boy shrugged, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. "He's… not so bad," he admitted, surprising himself with his own admission.

Hyukjae grinned broadly, pleased by his response. "Told you, hyung," he said triumphantly. "I'm winning him over with my irresistible charm."

Jungsoo chuckled softly, setting his book aside. "Well, someone has to keep you in check, Hyukee," he said with mock seriousness.

In the following days, Donghae began to reciprocate Hyukjae's banter, teasing him about his messy painting clothes or his habit of leaving dishes in the sink. Hyukjae responded with exaggerated protests, but Donghae could see the fondness in his eyes.

However, as the weather in Hwaseong turned colder, Donghae woke up one morning with a slight headache and a congested nose. He rubbed his temples, feeling the onset of a cold creeping in.

"Ah, great," he muttered to himself, reaching for a tissue to blow his nose. He wasn't used to the different viruses in the city compared to the more controlled environment of Erewhon.

Hyukjae, who was already up, making breakfast, noticed Donghae's subdued demeanor. "Hey, Ddohae, feeling okay?" he asked, turning off the stove and walking over.

The younger boy nodded slightly, trying to dismiss his symptoms. "Yeah, just a little under the weather," he admitted, his voice scratchy.

Jungsoo, who was getting ready for work, paused to feel Donghae's forehead. "You're definitely warm. You should stay home today," he advised, concern evident in his eyes.

He sighed reluctantly, realizing they were right. He wasn't used to being sick, and it frustrated him to be sidelined by something as common as a cold. "I guess so," he conceded, sinking back into his pillows.

Hyukjae set a bowl of hot porridge in front of Donghae and handed him a cup of warm tea. "Here, eat this. It'll help you feel better," he said softly, offering a reassuring smile.

Throughout the day, he rested as best as he could, bundled up in blankets and sipping on herbal tea. 

Despite feeling under the weather, he couldn't help but feel grateful for their kindness. He had never experienced such genuine care before coming to Hwaseong. In the islands, illnesses were rare and quickly treated with advanced medical technology. Here, it was the tea, blankets, and company that made all the difference.

Hyukjae, ever resourceful, decided to venture downstairs to the market. There, among the stalls and vendors, was an elderly lady known for her magical bone broth, a concoction rumored to heal all ailments.

He navigated through the lively market until he finally reached the small stall where Mrs Park stood, stirring a large cauldron of steaming broth with a wooden ladle.

"Excuse me," he greeted politely, catching her attention. "I heard your soup works wonders. Could I get a take-away bowl for my friend upstairs? He's feeling a bit under the weather."

The elderly lady nodded knowingly. "Ah, yes. Many have found comfort in my broth. Wait right here, young man."

He watched as she ladled a generous portion of the aromatic broth into a sturdy cardboard bowl to take away, steam curling upwards before she closed its lid. 

“I remember the last time you were here, you brought that young boy with you. How is he doing?" She asked.

Hyukjae paused for a moment, touched by her memory. "He's doing well, thank you. He's adjusting to life here, but he has a bit of a cold right now."

The lady nodded knowingly. "It's not easy for newcomers, especially young ones. Tell him I said hello and to come by anytime for some soup or fish."

He thanked her profusely, paying for the bowl before carefully making his way back to their apartment.

When he entered their home, the aroma of the broth filled the room, eliciting a faint smile from Donghae, still wrapped in blankets on the couch. "Hey, Ddohae! I got something special for you," He announced cheerfully, setting the bowl down on the table beside him.

The boy looked up. "What's this?"

"It's a magical potion," Hyukjae explained with a wink. "Supposed to heal all ailments. Drink up, buddy."

Donghae chuckled softly, touched by his friend’s thoughtfulness. He picked up the bowl, the warmth seeping through to his chilled fingers. The first sip brought a soothing sensation, the rich flavors of bone, herbs, and spices comforting his throat and clearing his sinuses.

“The lady downstairs asked about you." Hyukjae said, leaning against the counter as he watched Donghae enjoy the soup. "She said you're welcome anytime," he added. 

 "Thanks, Hyuk. This is exactly what I needed," Donghae replied, glancing over at the older boy, feeling a sense of warmth spreading through him.

Hyukjae grinned widely, leaning against the counter. "Anything for my favorite patient," he teased lightly.

Chapter Text

Donghae sat at the small kitchen table with the two older boys, a faint smile on his face as he recounted his day at school. His cheeks were still flushed from the remaining effects of his cold, but his eyes shone with a newfound confidence.

"So, hyungs," Donghae began, "things are actually getting better at school."

Jungsoo raised an eyebrow. "Oh? How so?"

Donghae took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "Well, today, some of the kids from my class started talking to me more. Turns out, they were curious about where I came from and all that. I guess they realized I'm not that different after all."

Hyukjae leaned forward. "See, I told you they'd come around," he said, nudging Donghae playfully. "You're starting to win them over with your incredible charms."

The younger kid chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I don't know about charms, but it feels good not to be an outsider anymore."

Jungsoo nodded in understanding. "That's great to hear, Donghae. It takes time, but people usually come around once they get to know you."

"Yeah," he agreed, a sense of relief evident in his voice. "They just needed a little time to see that I'm just like them."

"You know, kiddo," Hyukjaee teased with a playful grin, "you're totally starting to look like a real city boy now."

Donghae raised an eyebrow, suppressing a smile. "Oh yeah? And what's a real city boy supposed to look like?"

Hyukjae chuckled, gesturing with his hands. "Well, you've got that I know all the shortcuts  kind of vibe. Plus, the way you handle those streets, you're a natural."

Jungsoo smirked from across the table, joining in, "Yeah, you're practically a local now."

Hyukjae nodded, pretending to inspect Donghae's appearance with mock seriousness. "You're blending in just fine, kid. Soon, you'll be giving us tips on how to survive in this city."

Donghae rolled his eyes, feigning annoyance. "Yeah, right. I still have a lot to learn."

In the gloomy apartment, Donghae and Hyukj ae sat side by side, tension in the air as they both eyed the coveted TV remote resting between them.

"I'm telling you, kiddo, it's my turn to pick the show," Hyukjae declared, reaching for the remote.

Donghae, quicker than a flash, snatched it up and held it out of the older boy's reach, a big playful smile spreading across his face. "Not a chance, old man. You always pick the boring stuff."

Hyukjae laughed, lunging toward Donghae to wrestle the remote from his grasp. "Oh, old man , huh? We'll see about that!"

The two struggled playfully, the couch creaking beneath them as they moved. Donghae laughed, trying to wriggle free from Hyukjae's grasp, but Hyukjae had the advantage of height and strength.

"No fair! You're cheating!" Donghae protested, though his eyes sparkled with amusement.

"All's fair in love and war," Hyukjae retorted, finally managing to pin Donghae down long enough to grab the remote.

Triumphant, Hyukjae held the remote like a trophy, grinning down at Donghae. "Victory is mine!"

Donghae, still breathless from their playful fight, rolled his eyes and laughed. "Fine, you win this round. But next time, I'm not going easy on you."

Hyukjae flopped back onto the couch, letting Donghae sit up and adjust his disheveled clothes. "Deal. But for now, let's watch something good."

Jungsoo entered the room just in time to witness the end of their fight, shaking his head with a smile. "You two are like a couple of kids," he said, setting down a bag of snacks. "Glad to see you're getting along."

Donghae and Hyukjae exchanged a look, the remnants of their playful battle still evident in their smiles. As the TV lit up with Hyukjae's chosen show, they settled in together.

Donghae leaned back into the couch, his gaze shifting from the screen to Hyukjae. The older boy was still catching his breath from their wrestling match, his laughter subsiding into a contented smile. Donghae felt a swirl of emotions as he watched Hyukjae, a mix of admiration, gratitude, and something he couldn’t quite place. He wondered, his mind drifting away from the show and into his entangled thoughts. Since arriving in Hwaseong, Hyukjae had been a constant source of support and friendship, filling the void left by his estranged family. But the more time he spent with him, the more he questioned the nature of his feelings. 

Donghae’s thoughts drifted back to something Hyukjae had said earlier, just before their wrestling match had ended. “All’s fair in love and war,” Hyukjae had retorted with a grin. At the time, he had laughed it off, focused more on winning back control of the TV than the words themselves. But now, in the quiet aftermath, the phrase remained in his mind. Love and war. Was that what this was? A playful struggle, only to mask something deeper? The line between friendly rivalry and… something else, seemed to blur more with each passing day. Was this what having an older brother felt like? Donghae had never had a sibling, so he wasn’t sure if this was the kind of affection that brothers shared.

Yet, there was a warmth in his chest that suggested something different. A flutter in his stomach when Hyukjae smiled at him, the way his heart raced during their playful fights, and the comfort he felt when they sat close together on the couch. Donghae had read about these feelings in books and seen them in movies, but experiencing them in real life was confusing and overwhelming.

As if on cue, the older boy turned his head, catching his thoughtful expression. “What’s on your mind, kiddo?” he asked, nudging him gently.

Donghae snapped out of his reverie, blushing slightly. “Oh, nothing,” he replied quickly, forcing a smile. “Just thinking about school and stuff.”

Hyukjae raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further. “Well, if you ever want to talk about it, you know where to find me.”

Donghae nodded, grateful for Hyukjae’s understanding. He turned his attention back to the TV, but his thoughts remained tangled.  As the show played on, Hyukjae noticed Donghae's distant look and sensed the boy's need for reassurance. Without a word, he wrapped his arm around Donghae's shoulders and pulled him closer. The warmth of the older boy's embrace made Donghae feel a comfort he hadn't known in a long time.

"You're really part of the family now, Donghae," Hyukjae said softly, his voice gentle and soothing.

Donghae leaned into the embrace, his head resting against Hyukjae's chest. The familiar scent of the older boy created a sense of home that Donghae was beginning to cherish. As Hyukjae brought him closer, Donghae felt a rush of conflicting emotions once again. The warmth and security of the embrace were comforting, yet there was a growing sense of confusion within him. His heart raced, and he couldn’t shake the feeling that his affection for Hyukjae was becoming something more complicated than simple brotherly love.

"Thanks," Donghae murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm glad I have you and Jungsoo."

For a moment, they sat in silence, the only sounds coming from the TV and the faint bustle of the city outside. He closed his eyes, in the safety of Hyukjae's embrace. His mind, however, was far from at ease. The closeness he felt to Hyukjae, the way his heart skipped a beat when the older boy was near, it all troubled him deeply. He had never felt this way before, and the unfamiliarity of it was both exciting and frightening. What did these feelings mean? Why did he feel this way about Hyukjae? And most importantly, what would he think if he knew?

Donghae felt isolated in his turmoil. He cared deeply for Hyukjae, more than he had ever cared for anyone, even Jungsoo, his own flesh and blood, and that scared him. As the evening wore on, he silently promised himself that he would try to understand his feelings in time. For now, he would keep them to himself, hidden away where they couldn’t complicate the fragile sense of family he had found. But as Hyukjae, who seemed oblivious to it all, tightened his embrace and brought him closer, he couldn’t help but wonder if things would ever be simple again.

However, things weren’t becoming any easier as the days went by. The older boy’s constant teasing and affectionate gestures only added to Donghae's confusion. He had a habit of draping an arm around Donghae's shoulders, ruffling his hair, or nudging him playfully. Every touch, every laugh, sent a jolt through Donghae's already tangled emotions.

"Hey, kiddo," Hyukjae grinned one evening, ruffling Donghae's hair as they sat on the couch. "You spacing out on me again?"

Donghae swatted his hand away, trying to hide the blush creeping up his cheeks. "Stop it, Hyukjae! You're always messing with me."

Hyukjae laughed, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Can't help it, Donghae. You're just too easy to mess with."

Donghae forced a laugh, but inside, his thoughts were in turmoil.

Why did Hyukjae's playful touches make his heart race? Why did he feel a pang of jealousy whenever Hyukjae turned his attention elsewhere?

Chapter Text

On Saturday morning, Hyukjae woke Donghae up earlier than usual with a mischievous grin on his face. "Hey, kid, get up! We're going fishing today."

Donghae rubbed his eyes, still half-asleep, but the mention of fishing brought a spark of excitement to his eyes. "Fishing? Really?"

"Yeah!" Hyukjae replied enthusiastically. "I thought since Jungsoo's working today, we could do something fun."

Donghae's heart swelled with gratitude for Hyukjae's thoughtfulness. "That sounds amazing. Thank you, Hyukjae." 

"No problem, baby," Hyukjae said, stroking Donghae's hair affectionately. "Get dressed and let's go. We'll grab some breakfast on the way." 

How could he not feel something for someone who always seemed to know exactly what he needed? As he got dressed for the day, Donghae couldn't help but glance over at the older boy, who was already rummaging through their supplies, muttering something about needing bait. How could he not feel something for someone who was always so kind, so selfless, and so present in every little moment?

He quickly pushed the thought aside, not wanting to overthink it, but the feeling remained, warm and undeniable.

As they walked to their fishing spot, Hyukjae pointed out landmarks and shared stories from his own childhood adventures in the area, making him laugh with his animated tales.

When they reached their destination, a quiet pier by the edge of a lake that had once been a meander of Han River, Donghae couldn't contain his excitement. Hyukjae handed him a fishing rod and showed him how to cast the line.

"Okay, now watch closely," The older boy said, demonstrating the technique with expert precision. "You want to flick your wrist just like this..."

Donghae tried to mimic his movements, his determination evident on his face. After a few failed attempts and some laughter from Hyukjae, he finally managed to cast the line into the water.

"Now we wait," Hyukjae said, sitting down beside him, their legs almost touching. "Fishing is all about patience."

After what felt like hours, Donghae felt a tug on his line. "I think I caught something!" he exclaimed, excitement bubbling up inside him as he quickly got up to try to catch whatever had bitten into his bait.

Hyukjae grinned and rushed over to help Donghae reel in his first catch, a small but lively fish flopping on the end of the line. Donghae's face lit up with pride as he held up the fish for the older boy to see.

"You did it, Ddohae!" he cheered, clapping him on the back. "Not bad for your first time."

The two boys set up their fishing rods eagerly, each determined to catch more fish than the other. Hyukjae, with his years of experience, deftly cast his line into the water with practiced ease. Donghae watched in awe as the other boy's patience and skill paid off almost immediately with a series of successful catches.

Hyukjae chuckled, enjoying the competitive spirit between them. "Watch closely, Ddohae. You'll get the hang of it."

Donghae nodded enthusiastically and focused on his own fishing rod. He tried to mimic his friend’s technique as best as he could, but his attempts didn't yield as many fish as Hyukjae's.

He glanced at Hyukjae, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "Hey... why do you always call me Ddohae?"

Hyukjae paused for a second, then just shrugged with a smirk on his face. "I don’t know," he said casually. "It just sounds cute, like you are."

Donghae felt his cheeks flush at the remark, caught off guard by how easily Hyukjae could say things like that. He looked away, pretending to focus on the fishing line, but his heart was racing. That feeling, the warmth that kept creeping up on him whenever Hyukjae said something like that, was hard to ignore.

"Cute, huh?" he mumbled, trying to sound unimpressed, but the faint smile forming in his lips betrayed him.

"Yep, cute as always, Ddohae."

As the morning wore on, Hyukjae teased Donghae whenever he caught another fish. "Looks like I'm the fishing champ today, Kiddo," he said with a wide smile that made his gums visible. As they packed up their gear and headed back home, Donghae couldn't wipe the silly smile off his face.

The two boys proudly laid out their catch on the kitchen counter. Hyukjae grinned as he cleaned and prepared the fish, while Donghae eagerly assisted, learning the process with fascination.

"There's nothing like fresh catch," the older boy remarked, carefully seasoning the fish with the herbs and spices they had at hand.

Once the fish were cooked, they sat down, plates piled high with steaming fish and a side of vegetables. Donghae couldn't help but smile at the thought of their day.

"This is amazing!" he exclaimed after taking the first bite. "Thank you for taking me fishing today."

Hyukjae grinned, savoring his own meal. "No problem, Donghae. It was fun, wasn't it? We make a good team."

As they sat together eating, he replayed Hyukjae’s words in his head. "No problem, Donghae." He hadn’t called him Ddohae this time. Something about that small change, the absence of a nickname, gnawed at him.

He took another bite, his mind racing. Why didn’t he use it this time? Did it mean something? Was Hyukjae upset? Was he pulling back? Donghae glanced over at him, trying to find any sign that things were different, but Hyukjae seemed completely at ease, savoring his meal.

Donghae tried to shake off the overthinking, but it remained. The nicknames had always made him feel special, close to Hyukjae in a way that was just theirs. Without it, everything felt strangely formal, distant even.

"Yeah, we do make a good team," Donghae finally replied, forcing a smile, but his heart wasn’t fully in it.

As he picked at his food, he felt a knot tighten in his chest. Why am I like this? he thought, feeling a surge of self-consciousness. He knew it was ridiculous, obsessing over something so small. Just a nickname. It's nothing, right? But it bothered  him more than it should.

Am I really this pathetic? he wondered, feeling embarrassment. He hated how much importance he gave to these little moments, like every word or glance from him had the power to either make his day or send him spiraling. Why do I care this much?

Hyukjae laughed about something, completely oblivious to Donghae’s internal storm. He just stared at his plate, suddenly feeling small and silly. He was scared, scared of how deeply he felt for the older boy, and how much he needed that warmth, that attention, like it was the only thing keeping him steady.

It's just a nickname, he told himself again, trying to swallow the lump in his throat. But no matter how hard he tried to brush it off, the unease wouldn’t leave. He felt ridiculous, obsessed even, for reading into something that probably meant nothing at all to Hyukjae. Yet here he was, heart aching over two little words.

As they ate, the lady who lived downstairs knocked on their door. Hyukjae greeted her warmly and proudly showed her the remaining fish.

"These are the ones we didn't cook," he explained. "Freshly caught this morning."

Her eyes lit up with delight. "Oh, you boys are quite the fishermen! How much for the lot?"

The two of them exchanged glances, realizing they could use the extra cash. After a brief negotiation, they agreed on the price, and the old lady happily handed over the money.

"Thank you, boys. This will make a delicious dinner for me and my husband," she said, clutching the fish in her hands.

Back in their apartment, the two boys counted the money with satisfaction. It wasn't much, but it was enough to buy a few more groceries and maybe even treat themselves to a small dessert.

Donghae nodded, the weight from earlier still in the back of his mind. As Hyukjae finished counting, he suddenly pulled the smaller boy into a hug. "Good job, Kiddo."

At the sound of that familiar nickname, he felt a wave of relief wash over him. Kiddo. It was just Hyukjae being himself, the way he always was. Nothing had changed. Nothing was wrong. And yet, as his heart calmed down, a new feeling of embarrassment crept in. God, I’m pathetic, he thought. 

He felt better, but at the same time, he couldn’t shake the feeling of being ridiculous for caring this much. Down bad, he thought with a smile. That’s what he was, completely caught up in his feelings for Hyukjae, as if they held the key to everything he felt.

But even in that moment, with Hyukjae’s arm slung casually around his shoulders, he couldn’t help it. He didn’t want to be this consumed, but here he was. 

The older boy looked at him, noticing the faint smile on his face. "What’s with that look?" he teased, pulling him even closer. "You’re smiling all absent-mindedly. Come on, who is it? You got a crush on someone from school?"

Donghae's heart skipped a beat. His face flushed instantly, and he quickly shook his head. "W-What? No! That’s not…" His denial came out too fast, too defensive. "I’m not in love with anyone from school."

Hyukjae raised an eyebrow, clearly amused but still oblivious. "Hey, it's OK. I was just kidding!" he said, laughing. "You’re acting like I hit a nerve or something."

Donghae bit his lip, trying to hide how flustered he was. He looked away, pretending to focus on something else, but his mind was racing. I wish you knew, Hyukjae. I wish you knew who I’m actually thinking about.

Donghae, sitting across from Hyukjae at their small kitchen table, fidgeted with his chopsticks nervously. Hyukjae had just called him kiddo again, but this time Donghae felt a pang of uncertainty.

"Hyukjae," Donghae started tentatively, "do you... do you only see me as a kid?"

Hyukjae looked at him curiously for a moment, then burst out laughing. "Kid, I tease you because you're fun to tease! It's not like that."

His cheeks flushed slightly, partly in relief and partly embarrassed. "Oh, okay. I was just wondering."

The older boy smiled warmly, reaching across the table to stroke his face gently. "You're not just a kid to me, Donghae. You're my faithful companion in every adventure. The Yoshi to my Mario."

Donghae's eyes lit up with excitement at the comparison. "Really? So, that makes Jungsoo Luigi, right?" he asked eagerly.

Hyukjae laughed. "Of course, but we all know Mario and Luigi would be lost without Yoshi," he said, moving over to sling his arm over Donghae’s shoulders.

"I guess we make a pretty good team," Donghae said softly.

Hyukjae laughed, then wrapped him in a warm embrace. "You're silly, you know that?" he said, stroking Donghae's back affectionately.

He felt a mix of emotions but relaxed in the comfort of Hyukjae's hug. "Yes, I guess I am," he replied, feeling reassured by the older boy's affection.

Chapter Text

A few days later, the sky over Hwaseong turned an ominous shade of gray. The city's residents secured their belongings and sought shelter as the first drops of rain began to fall. Hyukjae, and Donghae hurried back to their apartment, the wind howling around them as the storm gathered strength.

By nightfall, the storm was in full force. Rain lashed against the windows, and the streets below quickly transformed into rivers of muddy water. The storm was worse than any in recent memory. The aging infrastructure of the city struggled to cope. Power lines snapped, plunging large sections of the city into darkness, and the already dilapidated buildings began to crumble under the relentless rain and wind. The storm's fury seemed almost apocalyptic.

The two of them cuddled together in their small apartment, listening to the roar of the tempest outside. The older boy tried to remain calm, but the memories of past floods in his town haunted him, fueling his anxiety.

The storm found Jungsoo at his workplace, trapping him inside the factory. The storm knocked out the power, and emergency protocols failed. He desperately tried to contact Hyukjae and Donghae, but the communication lines were down. Back home, the building shook, and they heard the noise of stressed metal and concrete. Water seeped in through the windows, and the roof began to leak. Hyukjae quickly realized they needed to leave before the building could collapse.

The two boys grabbed a few essentials and made their way through the flooded streets. They headed towards Jungsoo's workplace, hoping they would find him there and knowing it was one of the more secure buildings in the area. They moved through chest deep water, debris floating around them while the more desperate people looted and rioted, taking advantage of the chaos.

They navigated fallen branches, floating trash, and the occasional submerged vehicle, with a clear goal in their minds: to reach the cybernetics factory. The water was freezing cold, seeping through their clothes and sending shivers down their spines. Donghae stumbled over a submerged curb, but Hyukjae was quick to catch him, steadying him with a firm grip.

"Careful, kid," Hyukjae called over the roar of the rushing water. "We're almost there. Just keep moving!"

However, the older boy struggled against the current, his movements hindered by the debris and the cold water weighing down his clothes. Donghae, more accustomed to the water's challenges as he had taken swimming lessons in the islands, swam over to him and offered a steady hand.

"Come on, Hyukee, you can do it," Donghae encouraged, his voice firm despite the chaos around them. He gripped Hyukjae's arm tightly and guided him through the swirling currents towards higher ground.

Hyukjae coughed, his eyes wide with a mix of fear and determination. "I'm trying," he gasped between breaths, his legs kicking hard against the resistance of the floodwater.

Donghae kept a firm grip on Hyukjae, navigating them both through the path ahead. As they approached the factory district, the water level began to recede slightly, easing their progress. Hyukjae looked back at Donghae with a reassuring smile. "We're going to make it," he said encouragingly. "And once we're there, Jungsoo will know what to do."

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of struggle, they reached shallower water near the factory entrance. Hyukjae collapsed onto solid ground, coughing up water and gasping for air. Donghae knelt beside him, offering a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"You did great," Donghae said softly, his voice filled with admiration. "We made it."

Hyukjae managed a weak smile, his face pale and drained from the ordeal. "Thanks, Donghae," he muttered, grateful for the younger boy's unwavering support.

Together, they stumbled into the factory. A teary eyed Jungsoo rushed over to them, his face a mixture of relief and worry.

"You’re here!" Jungsoo exclaimed, pulling them both into a tight embrace. "I was so worried."

"We had to swim most of the way," Donghae managed to say through chattering teeth. "But we're here now."

Jungsoo nodded. "You did well," he said, his voice choked with emotion. "Thank you, both of you."

The three stood there for a moment, clinging to one another as the hum of the factory buzzed in the background. Eventually, Jungsoo pulled away, wiping his eyes before anyone could notice the tears. "Come on, let’s get you both cleaned up."

He guided them to the factory's facilities where warm showers awaited. Hyukjae walked beside him. A brief brush of Hyukjae’s arm against his sent a shiver down his spine, one that had little to do with the chill still clinging to his skin from swimming in the freezing waters.

The water splashed down as they turned the taps, brown at first, running like mud as the grime of the storm began to slip away. Donghae stood under the hot stream, letting it hit his back, the warmth sinking into his body, loosening the tension. He kept his head down, trying to focus on the feeling of the water rather than the emotions inside him.

Behind him, Hyukjae moved, stepping closer. Donghae froze as Hyukjae’s voice, low and playful, broke through the sound of the running shower. "You’re filthy, you know that?" he said.

Before he could react, his friend’s hands were on him. He felt the bar of soap press gently against his back. Hyukjae’s fingers moved along his skin in slow, deliberate strokes. Donghae’s breath hitched, his mind struggling to catch up to what was happening. The intimacy of the moment caught him off guard.

Hyukjae’s hands moved over Donghae’s shoulders, down his arms. The tension between them increased with every passing second, the steam from the shower covering them like a veil. Donghae could feel the heat radiating off Hyukjae’s body, far more intense than the water, and his skin prickled under Hyukjae’s touch.

"Turn around," Hyukjae’s voice was softer now, almost a murmur. Donghae hesitated for a split second before obeying, slowly facing him, heart pounding. His eyes met Hyukjae’s, and for a moment, everything else seemed to blur, like they were the only two people in the world.

Hyukjae smiled, that same playful grin he always wore, but there was something different in his eyes now, something darker, more intense. He reached up and brushed his fingers over Donghae’s jaw, gently smearing away the streaks of mud there. "You’ve still got dirt on your face," he said quietly, though his words felt almost like an excuse to keep touching him.

Every inch of Donghae's body was aware of Hyukjae’s hands as they moved lower, sliding down his chest with maddening slowness. He fought to keep control of himself. But it was impossible to ignore the heat in his lower abdomen, impossible to ignore the way Hyukjae’s proximity was driving him crazy.

"You’re not getting shy on me now, are you?" Hyukjae teased, and his voice sent a shiver down Donghae’s spine. He stepped closer, and Donghae could feel the brush of Hyukjae’s chest against his own, the space between them becoming even narrower in the steam filled air.

"N... no," Donghae stammered as his voice caught in his throat. He tried to laugh it off, but it came out shaky. He lowered his gaze, unable to hold Hyukjae’s any longer without giving away everything he was feeling.

"Good," Hyukjae whispered. His hand moved lower, clutching at Donghae’s waist now, fingertips caressing the skin just above his hip, and Donghae swore he could barely breathe. He didn’t know what was happening, didn’t know where this was going, but he didn’t want it to stop.

The tension between them felt almost dangerous now. Donghae couldn’t name what it was, but he wanted more. Needed more. The moment stretched, but just as Donghae looked back up, the sound of the door opening broke the spell.

Jungsoo’s voice called from outside, bringing them back to reality. "Hurry up, guys! I’ve got clean clothes here for you."

Hyukjae laughed, stepping back and giving Donghae one last grin before turning off the water. "Guess we’ll have to finish this later," he said, tossing Donghae a towel, his eyes twinkling with mischief before walking away.

Donghae stood there for a second, heart still racing, breath unsteady as he tried to process what had just happened. His skin still tingled from Hyukjae’s touch, and his head was spinning with questions he didn’t dare ask.

Jungsoo handed them both plain overalls, having dug them out from some storage room while their soaked garments dried. Donghae quickly slipped into his, feeling the rough fabric against his skin, grounding him.

Together, they stayed in the warmth of the factory, safe from the storm's aftermath. Sheltered in the solid building, they watched as the floodwaters engulfed their city. Hyukjae, coming from a city that had been completely engulfed by a flood, felt a pang of despair as he thought about their home, their possessions, and the uncertainty of what awaited them once the storm passed.

Donghae stayed close to Jungsoo. "Do you think our apartment will be okay?" he asked, his voice small and trembling.

"I'm sorry, Donghae," Jungsoo murmured, his voice tinged with regret. "I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I shouldn't have brought you to this shitshow of a city."

Donghae, leaning against a stack of crates nearby, looked up with a thoughtful expression. "It's not your fault, Jungsoo," he replied. "I wanted to come. Besides, life in the islands..." He paused, searching for the right words. "It's not what everyone thinks. Everyone's so focused on being better than each other. Richer, shinier. It's like a constant race."

Jungsoo listened carefully, his brow furrowed. He had always imagined life in the islands to be glamorous, filled with opportunity and luxury. But Donghae's sudden irruption in his life had offered him a glimpse into a reality he had never considered.

"I guess we all have our struggles," Jungsoo admitted. "I just wanted you to have a chance at something better."

Donghae nodded understandingly. "And I appreciate that, Hyung. You know, back in the islands, everything seemed perfect. But it was all just... superficial. Here, in this city, I've learned that happiness isn't about having everything or being someone else. It's about these small things we share, like cooking together, playing games, even just talking late into the night."

Jungsoo froze for a moment, the word Hyung still ringing in his ears. It was the first time Donghae had called him that. The title carried so much weight. He had always sought to provide Donghae with stability and opportunities, yet here was his younger brother finding happiness in the simplicity of their daily lives.

"I'm glad you're here, Donghae," Jungsoo said finally, with the warmest and most sincere smile Donghae had ever seen from him. "We'll figure this out together."

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the storm began to subside. The rain slowed to a drizzle, and the winds gradually died down. The residents of Hwaseong emerged from their shelters to assess the damage.

The floodwaters receded over the next few days, revealing a city battered but not broken. Mud and debris covered the streets, and many buildings showed signs of water damage. Jungsoo, Hyukjae, and Donghae made their way back to their apartment, navigating the post storm landscape.

When they reached their building, relief washed over them. Though the ground floor was a mess of mud and debris, their apartment had been spared the worst of the damage. A few leaks and damp patches marked the walls, but it was habitable.

Jungsoo smiled, the weight of the past days' fears lifting slightly. "We made it."

Together, they set to work cleaning up the mess left by the storm.

Chapter Text

After the storm, Hwaseong slowly began to return to its usual rhythm. But in the middle of all the talk and rebuilding, there was one thing Hyukjae never mentioned, the shower incident. Not once had he brought it up, and Donghae didn’t dare either.

Donghae wasn’t sure if Hyukjae had forgotten about it or if he was purposefully ignoring the tension between them. Either way, he found himself relieved but confused. He would catch himself glancing at the older boy, wondering if it had all been in his head, if any of that had meant anything more. But Hyukjae remained his usual self, effortlessly playful, as if nothing had changed.

He, on the other hand, couldn’t stop replaying the moment in his head. He tried to push it aside, focus on school and his other friends, but the memories would slip in at the most unexpected moments, making him blush as he remembered. 

Relieved to be back at school, he walked through the corridors, noticing the signs of cleanup and repair. As he made his way through the courtyard, he spotted his friend Kyuhyun sitting alone at a bench, staring blankly at the horizon.

He approached him cautiously, concerned by his distant expression. "Hey, Kyuhyun, are you alright?" he asked.

He looked up, his glowy blue eyes clouded with worry. "Oh, Donghae," he sighed, “Everything's ruined."

What do you mean?" Donghae asked, sitting down beside him.

He sighed heavily, his fingers tracing the outline of his cybernetic eyes. "The storm damaged my eyes," he muttered, his voice tinged with resignation. "They're failing again. I'm going blind."

Donghae's heart sank. He knew how much those cybernetic eyes meant to him. They had allowed him to see clearly for the first time in years. "Is there anything they can do to fix them?" Donghae asked quietly.

He shook his head. "The repair costs are too high, and my family can't afford it," he admitted. "I don't know what I'll do."

Donghae glanced at his friend as they sat together in their favorite corner of the school courtyard. "I've been thinking," he began, "maybe Jungsoo could help with your cyborg parts."

Kyuhyun looked up, his expression a mix of exhaustion and hope. "You really think Jungsoo could do something?" he asked.

The boy nodded earnestly. "Yeah, he works putting those things together. At the factory, he deals with the best technology for the assholes on the islands.” He stated about his brother, his voice tinged with pride. “It's worth a try, right?"

He pondered for a moment, weighing the possibility against his current plight.

"Okay," he finally agreed, a grateful smile spreading across his face. "Let's see if Jungsoo can do something about it."

As Jungsoo meticulously worked on repairing Kyuhyun's damaged cybernetics, Donghae found himself lost in thought. He watched his classmate, whose eyelids were shut as Jungsoo made tweakments to the delicate electronic pieces.

Reflecting on their situation, Donghae couldn't help but contrast it with what he had seen at the factory. There, on the islands, people seemed to modify themselves almost as a fashion statement, enhancements that were more about aesthetics and status than necessity. They had the means to afford the latest upgrades and enhancements without a second thought, while here, Kyuhyun struggled to maintain basic functionality.

"It's not fair," Donghae muttered quietly to himself, his frustration mounting. For Kyuhyun, these cybernetic eyes weren't just luxury; they were his entire life, they allowed him to function and participate in daily life.

As he observed Jungsoo delicately adjusting circuits and fine tuning mechanisms, Donghae's thoughts turned to the disparities that defined their society. The divide between those who could afford cutting-edge enhancements for vanity and those like Kyuhyun, who relied on them for fundamental existence.

"Hey, Donghae," Jungsoo's voice broke through his reverie, snapping him back to the present moment. Donghae looked over to see Jungsoo looking up from his work, a small smile playing on his lips. "I think we're making progress here. It's not going to be perfect, but I'm optimistic."

Donghae nodded gratefully, a sense of relief washing over him. Perhaps there were people like Jungsoo, skilled and compassionate, who could bridge the gap, even if only one repair at a time.

He watched as Jungsoo meticulously adjusted the delicate wiring and circuits of Kyuhyun's eyes. Donghae admired how focused and calm his brother remained through the process, despite the complexity of the task.

Finally, a soft click echoed in the room and Kyuhyun’s eyes were installed again. He blinked once, then twice. One of his eyes began to glow with a soft red light, blinking rhythmically, while the other emitted a steady blue glow. Donghae’s heart raced, unsure what would happen next.

Kyuhyun shifted in his seat and blinked again, this time more deliberately. His eyes seemed to stabilize as the blinking slowed. He looked around the room cautiously, then settled his artificial gaze on Donghae, a faint smile forming on his lips.

“I... I can see,” he said, his voice shaking with disbelief. "Not perfectly... but it's near normal again."

Donghae rushed towards his friend, relief and joy flooding him. "Really? You can see me?"

He nodded, blinking the red and blue lights in tandem. “Yeah, it’s not what it used to be, but... it’s so much better than the dark.”

Jungsoo leaned back, wiping sweat from his forehead, his expression filled with quiet satisfaction. “It’ll take some time to get used to, but you should be fine. We’ll do a few more calibrations, but this is a good sign.”

Donghae felt his chest swell with gratitude. “Thank you, Jungsoo,” he whispered.

Chapter Text

Hyukjae got a painting job on the other side of town, which meant he would be gone most of the week. Donghae felt a pang of disappointment as he watched Hyukjae gather his supplies in the early morning light.

"Do you have to go so far?" Donghae asked, unable to hide his frustration.

Hyukjae chuckled and ruffled Donghae's hair. "It's just for a few days. I'll be back before you know it. Besides, we need the money."

Donghae nodded, trying to be understanding, but the thought of spending the days without Hyukjae's teasing and company made him feel lonely. "I'll miss you," he muttered, looking down at the floor.

"I'll miss you too, kiddo," Hyukjae replied with a smile. "Take care of things here for me, alright?"

Donghae watched Hyukjae leave, the door closed behind him with a soft bang. The apartment suddenly felt emptier. He sighed and sat on the edge of the couch, staring at the spot where Hyukjae had been just moments before.

As the hours passed, Donghae tried to occupy himself. He cleaned the small apartment, cooked lunch, and even attempted to read one of the old books Hyukjae had picked up from a flea market. But his thoughts kept drifting back to his friend. The laughter, the teasing, the sense of security he felt when he was around… all of it seemed distant now.

In the afternoon, Donghae wandered through the main market of Hwaseong, hoping the chaos would distract him. Vendors shouted their wares, children ran through the narrow streets, and the smell of street food filled the air. But even among the noise and activity, he felt a persisting sense of absence.

As evening approached, Donghae made his way back to the apartment. The sun was setting, enveloping the city with a warm orange light, but it did little to lift his spirits. He prepared instant noodles for dinner, setting aside an uncooked portion for Jungsoo, in case he returned late.

Sitting alone at the small kitchen table, Donghae sighed and poked at his food. "Hurry back, Hyukjae," he whispered to himself. "It's not the same without you."

When his brother finally returned from work, Donghae greeted him with a subdued smile. "Hey, Jungsoo. How was your day?"

"Tiring, as usual," Jungsoo replied, noticing Donghae's mood. "Are you okay, Donghae?"

"Yeah, just... missing Hyukjae," he admitted.

The older boy nodded, understanding. "He'll be back soon. In the meantime, why don't we do something together? Maybe watch a movie on TV?"

Donghae's face brightened a little at the suggestion. "That sounds good."

As they settled in for the night, he found some comfort in Jungsoo's presence. His older brother didn’t pry, didn’t ask too many questions, he just gave him space, which Donghae appreciated. His brother was very different from Hyukjae. He was always reserved and kept his emotions hidden behind a cool demeanor. Even though they lived together now, Donghae sometimes felt like he barely knew him. Jungsoo was always kind and protective, but he rarely opened up or shared what he was really thinking.

It wasn’t that Jungsoo was cold, he just had this way of quietly holding everything together without letting anyone, not even Donghae, see the weight he carried. He worked long hours at the factory, came home exhausted, and still managed to make sure Donghae had everything he needed. But he rarely talked about himself.

Donghae often wondered if his brother was struggling under it all, if he felt lonely, or frustrated, or scared, but Jungsoo never let any of that show. It was like he had built a wall around himself, and Donghae could only see glimpses through the cracks.

He couldn't wait for Hyukjae to return. He missed the way he would invade his space without thinking twice, ruffling his hair, poking him, or tossing an arm around his shoulder. The relentless teasing, the jokes, it all made the apartment feel fuller, more alive.

Donghae smiled to himself, the thought of the older boy’s laugh echoing in his mind. It’s strange, he thought, how I miss the way he always gets under my skin. As annoying as it is sometimes... I miss it.

As the days went by, Jungsoo began to notice the growing closeness between his brother and Hyukjae. The way Donghae's face lit up whenever the older boy was around, the playful banter they shared, and the bond that seemed to strengthen with each passing day. All of it gnawed at him. He couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. After all, he was Donghae's actual biological brother, not Hyukjae.

One evening, after another long shift at the factory, Jungsoo walked home, exhausted. He opened the door to find his brother and his friend sprawled on the couch, engrossed in a video game. They were laughing and teasing each other, completely absorbed in their own world.

"Hey," Jungsoo called out, trying to keep his voice steady. "I'm back."

"Hey, Jungsoo!" Donghae said, barely glancing up from the screen. "We saved some dinner for you. It's in the kitchen."

"Thanks," Jungsoo muttered, heading to the kitchen. As he heated up the leftovers, he could hear their laughter echoing from the living room. It made his chest tighten with a mix of frustration and sadness.

Later that night, as they all sat together, Jungsoo couldn't hold back any longer. "You two seem to be getting along really well," he said, his tone a bit sharper than he intended.

Hyukjae looked up, sensing the tension. "Yeah, Donghae's great company. We've been having fun."

"Glad to hear it," Jungsoo replied, forcing a smile. "Just remember, Hyukjae, Donghae's my brother. I'm responsible for him."

Hyukjae's expression softened. "Of course. I know that. I'm just trying to help out."

Donghae, sensing the underlying tension, looked between the two older boys. "Jungsoo, Hyukjae's been really good to me. I feel... I feel safe with him."

Jungsoo sighed, running a hand through his faded red hair. "I know, Donghae. It's just... it's complicated."

The room fell into an awkward silence, the weight of Jungsoo's words hanging in the air. Hyukjae cleared his throat. "Hey, Donghae, why don't we call it a night?"

The tension in the room felt like it had doubled, pressing in on all sides. Jungsoo's face was tight, his usual guarded expression faltering for just a moment before he put the mask back on. As Donghae looked at him, his eyes soft and pleading, Jungsoo felt a pang of guilt. He knew he was being unfair, but he couldn’t help it. And worst of all, it was his own fault, he had built those walls so high that even his own brother couldn’t reach him.

For a moment, there was a hint of vulnerability in his eyes, but just as quickly, it was gone. He couldn’t let himself crack open completely, not yet. Not when he didn’t even know how to put into words the fear that threatened to consume him, the fear that maybe he wasn’t enough, that maybe Donghae didn’t need him the way he needed his brother.

Deep down, Jungsoo was terrified of being abandoned, left behind by the only people he had left. He wouldn’t admit it, not even to himself, but that fear accompanied him constantly. He didn’t know how to be vulnerable, not after everything. Letting people in meant giving them the power to leave, to hurt him, and that was a risk he wasn’t willing to take.

Donghae nodded, feeling the unease. "Yeah, okay. Goodnight, Jungsoo."

"Goodnight," Jungsoo replied, watching them head to Hyukjae’s bed. He sat alone for a while, feeling a mix of emotions. He knew he needed to find a way to bridge the gap, connect with his brother. But for now, he felt like an outsider in his own home.

Unable to sleep, stared at the cracked wall in front of him. He felt torn, a knot of regret and frustration tightening in his chest. The laughter and lighthearted conversation on the other side of the room, where his younger brother and his friend were cuddling and attacking each other with tickles on the other boy’s bed, only deepened his sense of isolation.

He regretted working so much, regretted the long hours that kept him away from Donghae. Yet, he knew having a stable job in Hwaseong was a rare privilege, one he couldn't afford to give up. The money was crucial for their survival; it put food on the table, kept a roof over their heads, and allowed them small luxuries like cough syrup and winter clothes.

He sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair. "I can't keep doing this," he muttered to himself. "But what choice do I have?"

His thoughts drifted to his childhood, to the days when he was left alone to fend for himself. He had vowed never to let Donghae feel that same abandonment, yet here he was, working tirelessly while Hyukjae filled the role he should have been playing.

"I have to make it work," he said softly to himself. "For Donghae. For us."

The next morning, Jungsoo woke up earlier than usual. He found Hyukjae and Donghae already awake, preparing breakfast together. The sight stirred a mix of emotions within him, but he forced a smile.

"Good morning," he greeted them.

"Morning, Jungsoo," Hyukjae replied, flipping a pancake. "We made extra today."

"Yeah, join us!" Donghae added, his face lighting up.

Jungsoo sat down at the table, feeling a bit more at ease. As they ate, he tried to engage more, asking Donghae about his school and Hyukjae about his day. The atmosphere was lighter, more relaxed, and for a moment, he felt like part of the family again.

Before leaving for work, Jungsoo pulled Donghae aside. "Hey, if you need anything, just let me know, okay? I'm always here for you, even if I'm not around all the time."

Donghae nodded, his eyes earnest. "I know, Jungsoo. Thanks."

Chapter Text

As Donghae's 18th birthday approached, Jungsoo found himself increasingly anxious. Over the past months, their family in Hwaseong had grown close. Donghae had adjusted well to life in the city, forging bonds with both of them. Yet, as his brother’s coming of age neared, Jungsoo couldn't shake the fear that Donghae might want to return to the islands where he was raised.

One evening, as they sat together at the kitchen table, Jungsoo brought up the topic cautiously. "Hey, Donghae," he began, his voice tentative. "Your birthday's coming up soon. Have you thought about what you want to do?"

Donghae looked up from his homework, his expression thoughtful. "I haven't really thought about it much," he admitted. "I've been happy here with you guys."

Jungsoo nodded slowly, relieved yet still apprehensive. "Yeah, it's been good. But, uh, you know, once you're 18, you can make your own decisions. If you ever want to go back..."

Donghae set his textbook aside and met Jungsoo's gaze. "I know," he said softly. "But honestly, I haven't thought about leaving. This feels like home now."

A wave of relief washed over Jungsoo, though he tried to hide it behind a faint smile. "Good to hear," he replied, his voice steady. "We've, uh, got your birthday coming up. We'll figure out something special to celebrate."

Donghae smiled warmly. "Thanks, Jungsoo. I'm glad I ended up here."

Jungsoo and Hyukjae sifted through the market stalls, their eyes scanning for something special that would bring a smile to Donghae's face on his upcoming 18th birthday. Among the many goods, they stumbled upon a weathered cardboard box hidden away in a corner stall. Dusty and forgotten, it contained an ancient digital camera, a relic of a bygone era, when digital photography was just beginning to replace film. Hyukjae whistled low, picking it up and turning it over in his hands. The weight was satisfying, the buttons clicked in a way modern touchscreens could never replicate.

Hyukjae grinned mischievously, plucking out a plastic kit lens covered in chipped silver paint. "Hey Jungsoo, look at this! He will probably love making memories with this". He was dead set on finding  something special, something that would light up his face with that boyish excitement he never quite outgrew. “You know how he gets about old tech, he says it has character.”

Jungsoo smirked. “Yeah, this is exactly his vibe. But let’s see if it actually works.”

They inspected the camera, flipping open the battery compartment and peering into the lens. The LCD screen was scratched but intact. Hyukjae pressed the power button, but nothing happened. He frowned.

“Might just be a dead battery,” Jungsoo reasoned. “Or…” He reached back into the box. “Let’s see if there’s a memory card.”

Hyukjae popped open the slot and groaned. “Nope. It needs a CF card.”

Jungsoo exhaled, standing up and scanning the market. “There’s gotta be one somewhere.”

Determined, they spent the next hour inspecting the stalls, asking puzzled vendors if they had any old CompactFlash cards lying around. Just as they were about to give up, an elderly shopkeeper in a cluttered electronics stall reached under his counter and produced a small, clear case. Inside sat a single CF card, its label peeling at the edges.

Hyukjae grinned as he exchanged a few bills for it. “We’re back in business.”

He eagerly popped open the camera’s memory card slot as his fingers brushed away years of accumulated dust. With a satisfied smirk, he slid the CompactFlash card into place and clicked the cover shut.

“Moment of truth,” Jungsoo muttered as Hyukjae pressed the power button.

For a second, nothing happened. Then, with a soft beep, the tiny LCD screen flickered to life. The interface was clunky and dated, the colors slightly washed out, but it worked. Hyukjae let out a triumphant laugh, nudging Jungsoo with his elbow.

“I can’t believe this thing still runs,” he said, scrolling through the settings with a mix of nostalgia and amusement. “Alright, let’s see if the sensor’s alive.”

Before Jungsoo could protest, Hyukjae spun the camera toward him, grinning wildly. “Say cheese.”

“What? Wait!”

Click.

Jungsoo groaned as the ancient camera processed the image at a snail’s pace. When it finally loaded onto the screen, Hyukjae burst out laughing. The picture was a mess, Jungsoo mid-blink, his expression caught somewhere between confusion and mild horror. The camera’s primitive sensor had exaggerated every detail, making his face look strangely overexposed and slightly warped at the edges.

“This,” Hyukjae snorted, clutching his stomach, “is art.”

Jungsoo snatched the camera from his hands and squinted at the screen. “Delete this immediately.”

“Nope,” Hyukjae declared, shaking his head. “This is staying. In fact, this is the first memory captured on Donghae’s new… well, old camera.”

Jungsoo rolled his eyes but couldn’t fight back his own laughter. He had to admit, as ridiculous as the photo was, there was something strangely fitting about it. Donghae would love this camera, not just for what it was, but for the stories it was already beginning to tell.

A few days later, both boys worked together to prepare a surprise birthday party for Donghae. They had waited for him to leave for school before starting their preparations.

Hyukjae was hanging up strings of colorful fairy lights while Jungsoo was busy in the tiny kitchen, attempting to bake a cake.

"How's the cake coming along?" Hyukjae asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

His friend looked up, a smudge of flour on his cheek and a determined expression on his face. "I think it's going okay. I followed the recipe exactly, but we'll see how it turns out."

He chuckled and returned to his task. Once the lights were up, he moved on to blowing up balloons, carefully tying each one and arranging them around the room.

In the kitchen, Jungsoo was carefully pouring the cake batter into a pan, double-checking the recipe one last time before sliding it into the oven. He wiped his hands on a dish towel and joined the other boy in the main room.

"Alright, the cake's in the oven. What else do we need to do?" He asked, looking around.

Hyukjae pointed to a small box hidden under the couch. "We need to wrap his present. Can’t wait to see his face when he opens it and finds the camera."

Jungsoo grinned. "He's going to love it."

They sat on the floor together, carefully wrapping the box in brightly colored paper and adding a ribbon for the finishing touch. Jungsoo wrote a simple but heartfelt message on the tag: "Happy Birthday, Donghae. From your brothers, Jungsoo and Hyukjae."

By the time they finished, the apartment looked like a celebration waiting to happen. They took a step back to admire their work.

"Do you think he'll be surprised?" Hyukjae asked, a little nervously.

Jungsoo smiled warmly. "Definitely. He's going to love it."  In the past, he would have been uncertain, his insecurities often clouding his confidence. But now, as he observed Donghae's growing comfort around the boys, he knew that his younger brother would appreciate the gesture.

They high-fived, their spirits high as they awaited Donghae’s return. When the younger boy came back from school, he found the apartment ready for a party. The table held a simple cake, homemade by Jungsoo, with "Happy Birthday Donghae" written in slightly shaky icing. Jungsoo and Hyukjae stood on either side of Donghae, their faces lit with anticipation.

"Make a wish and blow out the candles, Donghae," Jungsoo encouraged, his voice soft with affection.

"Happy birthday, Donghae!" Hyukjae exclaimed, clapping him on the back.

Jungsoo handed him a neatly wrapped package, its weight unfamiliar. "Here. We found something special for you."

Donghae’s brows lifted with curiosity as he carefully peeled away the wrapping paper. The moment the box was fully revealed, he froze. His fingers traced the edges of the worn cardboard, his breath catching slightly as he lifted the lid.

“No way,” Donghae murmured, lifting it with careful reverence. His eyes shone with excitement as he turned it over, inspecting every detail. “Is this… does it work?”

Hyukjae grinned and leaned forward. “Try it.”

Donghae pressed the power button, and for a split second, he feared it wouldn’t turn on. Then, with a soft beep, the tiny screen flickered to life. His face lit up in pure delight.

“We even found a memory card for it,” Jungsoo added. “That was not easy, by the way.”

Donghae glanced between them, his heart full. “This is amazing!.” He turned the camera on them, his thumb hovering over the shutter button. “Let’s see how it works.”

Before he could take a proper photo, Hyukjae lunged forward, making an exaggerated, ridiculous face just as the camera clicked. The screen took its time loading the image, and when it finally appeared, Donghae burst into laughter. Hyukjae’s wild expression paired with the camera’s outdated sensor resulted in something utterly ridiculous.

“This is perfect,” Donghae said between laughs.Jungsoo shook his head fondly. “Just don’t fill the entire memory card with Hyukjae’s face.”

“No promises,” Donghae grinned, snapping another shot of Hyukjae, who was now striking a dramatic pose.

Donghae looked up at the two older boys, his chest tightening. They had really gone out of their way for this. He wanted to say something, to tell them just how much it meant to him, but the words stuck in his throat. Instead, he lifted the camera, framing the two of them in the tiny viewfinder.

"Alright, you two, stay still," he said, his voice warm with affection.

Hyukjae immediately threw an arm around Jungsoo’s shoulders, flashing a goofy grin. Jungsoo rolled his eyes but didn’t move away, a quiet smile that let his dimple show formed on his face.

Click.

The camera took its time processing the image, and when it finally loaded onto the screen, Donghae’s heart swelled. The two people he cherished most, frozen in time, captured in a way that felt raw and timeless. He smiled down at the photo, memorizing every detail.

He laughed and looked at them again. "Thanks, you guys. This is the best birthday I've ever had."

Chapter Text

Hyukjae and Donghae were sat on the threadbare couch, their eyes glued to the TV screen where the familiar world of Mario Kart unfolded. Donghae's hands moved over the controller, as his car sped and dodged every obstacle with precision.

"Again?" Hyukjae groaned as the "2nd place" screen flashed for the tenth time that evening. "You're too good at this, Donghae."

Donghae grinned triumphantly. "I told you, I used to play a lot back home."

Hyukjae chuckled, tossing his controller aside. "Alright, Champion, let's see how you handle this!" With that, he threw himself playfully at him, catching him off guard.

They wrestled on the couch, laughing and shouting as they fought for control. Hyukjae's arms wrapped around Donghae, trying to pin him down. He squirmed, his heart racing not just from the play fight but from the proximity of the older boy’s body. He could feel the warmth of the older boy's breath and the strength in his arms.

"Got you now!" Hyukjae teased, his face merely centimeters away from Donghae's.

Donghae's laughter faltered for a moment. "No way!" he retorted, managing to wiggle free and push his bigger body away, but not without his own heartbeat echoing in his ears.

The older boy fell back onto the couch, panting slightly. "You're stronger than you look, kiddo," he said with a grin.

Donghae, still catching his breath, felt a mix of exhilaration and confusion. He enjoyed these moments with Hyukjae, but the closeness made him nervous. "Yeah, well, I guess I have to be, since I’m living with you," he joked, trying to mask his feelings.

Hyukjae laughed, a deep, genuine sound that made him smile despite his inner turmoil. "Fair enough," he said, still chuckling. "Ready for another round, or are you scared you'll lose this time?"

"Bring it on," he replied, encouraged by the challenge. But as they resumed their game, he couldn't shake the fluttering in his chest whenever Hyukjae got too close.

As the game continued, the air between Hyukjae and Donghae grew more charged, an undercurrent of tension threaded through the banter. Donghae's heart pounded in his chest, each moment of closeness with Hyukjae making him more acutely aware of the confusing feelings he harbored.

When the game ended, Donghae set the controller down, his mind racing. He glanced at Hyukjae, who was leaning back on the couch, a satisfied smile on his face. Donghae took a deep breath.

"Hyuk," he began, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Hmm?" Hyukjae turned to look at him, his expression curious.

Before he could lose his nerve, he leaned in and kissed the corner of Hyukjae's mouth. It was a brief, tentative gesture, but it was enough to make his intentions clear. He pulled back slightly, his eyes wide with a mix of fear and anticipation.

Hyukjae's expression shifted from surprise to something unreadable. For a moment, the room was silent, the weight of the moment hanging between them.

"Donghae..." Hyukjae began, his voice gentle but firm. He reached up to touch Donghae's cheek, his thumb brushing lightly against the skin. "I care about you a lot. You're important to me. But I'm not sure if this is right."

Donghae's heart sank, but he nodded, understanding the unspoken words. "I... I'm sorry," he stammered, feeling a mix of embarrassment and rejection.

The older boy sighed, pulling him into a long hug. "Don't be. You're brave for expressing your feelings. It's just... complicated."

He buried his face in Hyukjae's shoulder, grateful for the embrace even if it wasn't the outcome he had hoped for. "I just didn't want to keep it to myself anymore."

Hyukjae held him tighter. "I get it. Let's take things one step at a time, okay?"

In the days that followed, Hyukjae's behavior shifted noticeably. He seemed to find any excuse to be near Donghae, to touch him, to tease him in ways that made Donghae's heart race.

One afternoon, as they sat in their cramped apartment, Hyukjae reached out and flicked Donghae's ear playfully. "Hey, kiddo, you seem lost in thought," he teased, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Donghae swatted his hand away, a smile tugging at his lips despite the flutter in his chest. "I'm not a kid," he retorted, though his tone lacked the usual playfulness.

Hyukjae grinned, leaning in closer. "You're right, you're not. But it's fun to mess with you." He ruffled Donghae's hair, his fingers lingering a bit longer than usual.

Later that evening, as they were cleaning up after dinner, Hyukjae stood behind Donghae, his hands resting on the younger boy's shoulders. "You've got a talent at cooking, you know that?" he said, his voice warm and close to Donghae's ear.

Donghae felt a shiver run down his spine at the contact. "Thanks," he murmured, trying to keep his voice steady. "But you're just saying that because you don't want to cook."

Hyukjae chuckled, stroking Donghae's shoulders gently before letting go. "Guilty as charged."

The tension continued to grow over the next few days. Whenever they played games, Hyukjae would find reasons to sit closer, their legs touching, his arm draped casually over Donghae's shoulder. The casual touches, the lingering glances, the way Hyukjae's hand would brush against Donghae's back or arm, all of it made Donghae's mind spin.

One night, as they lay on Jungsoo's futon, Hyukjae turned to face Donghae. "You know," he began, his voice soft in the darkness, "I've been thinking a lot about that kiss."

Donghae's breath caught in his throat. "Yeah?"

Hyukjae nodded, even though Donghae couldn't see it. "Yeah. It surprised me, but... I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. About you."

Donghae's heart pounded. "And?"

"And I think... I think I might feel the same way," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.

Donghae turned to face him, his eyes wide in the dim light. "Really?"

"Really," Hyukjae confirmed. He reached out, finding Donghae's hand in the dark and locking his fingers with the younger boy’s, giving the smaller hand a gentle squeeze. "I want to be with you, okay?"

Donghae squeezed his hand back, a smile spreading across his face. "Okay."

Hyukjae leaned in, his lips brushing softly against Donghae's. It was a quick kiss, but it sent a wave of warmth through Donghae's entire body. They pulled back, gazing at each other with a mixture of nervousness and newfound affection.

"Good night," Hyukjae whispered.

"Good night," Donghae replied, feeling a flutter in his chest.

Hyukjae wrapped his arm around Donghae, pulling him close. They cuddled against each other, finding comfort in the closeness.

As Donghae lay there, nestled in Hyukjae's embrace, he wondered if this was what people called love. The word had always seemed distant and abstract, something he read about in stories or saw in the rare, idealized moments on the screens. Yet here, in the warmth of their embrace, with the older boy’s steady breath in his ear, it felt real and tangible.

He thought back to his life on the islands, where everyone seemed caught up in a relentless pursuit of wealth and status. There, emotions were often masked by the glittering facade of prosperity. Genuine affection, the kind that made your heart race and your mind calm all at once, seemed almost non existent. People were too busy outdoing each other to notice the small, precious moments of connection.

Donghae realized that he had never felt this depth of feeling before, and he wasn't sure what to call it. All he knew was that it made him feel alive, and that was more than enough.

The next morning, as the first light of dawn filtered through the window, Jungsoo walked into the small bedroom and paused. There, on his futon, were Donghae and Hyukjae, cuddled up together. Jungsoo raised an eyebrow, curiosity and annoyance in his face.

"Why are you two in my futon?" Jungsoo asked, his voice a mixture of confusion and mild irritation.

Donghae's heart skipped a beat. He felt a surge of anxiety. What if Jungsoo was angry? What if he disapproved? He glanced at Hyukjae, who gave him a reassuring squeeze before turning to Jungsoo with a nonchalant smile.

"Donghae had a rough night, so I thought I'd keep him company," Hyukjae said, his tone light and easy. "Didn't want him to feel lonely."

Jungsoo sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Just make sure it doesn't become a habit. We don't need any more drama around here."

Donghae nodded quickly, still feeling a bit on the edge. "Sorry, Jungsoo. It won't happen again."

Jungsoo's expression softened slightly as he looked at Donghae. "It's fine. Just... next time, don’t do that, alright? I've got to get ready for something."

As Jungsoo moved to gather his things, Donghae felt a wave of relief wash over him. Hyukjae's presence beside him felt comforting, but he couldn't shake the nervousness entirely. He silently hoped that Jungsoo wouldn't pry further into their relationship.

Chapter Text

The morning air was cold as Donghae and Hyukjae walked down the streets of Hwaseong. The sky was a pale shade of gray, and their breath formed little clouds as they talked. Hyukjae was animated, recounting a funny story from his last job, his hands gesturing wildly.

Donghae half listened, laughing from time to time, but his mind was elsewhere. He looked at Hyukjae’s hand swinging casually by his side, fingers brushing against his own every now and then. His heart pounded in his chest, louder with each passing second. He took a deep breath, trying to summon the courage to do what he had been thinking about for days.

As they turned a corner, Donghae finally reached out, his fingers trembling slightly. He gently took Hyukjae’s hand in his own. Hyukjae paused mid sentence, looking down at their intertwined hands. His expression was unreadable for a moment, but then he smiled warmly.

“You okay, Ddohae?” Hyukjae asked softly, giving the younger boy's hand a reassuring squeeze.

Donghae nodded, his cheeks flushing a deep shade of red. “I just... felt like it.”

Hyukjae chuckled, stroking the back of the younger boy’s hand with his thumb. “Good. I like it.”

When they reached the school gates, Hyukjae stopped and turned to Donghae. “You’ll be okay today?”

Donghae nodded, feeling more confident than ever. “Yeah, I will. Thanks, Hyuk.”

“Anytime, love,” Hyukjae replied, ruffling’s the boy's hair affectionately before letting go of his hand.

As they stood by the school gates, Donghae felt a surge of courage. He turned to his friend, his heart racing. “Hey, um…” he started, his voice barely above a whisper.

Hyukjae raised an eyebrow, his lips curling upwards. “What is it?”

Donghae took a deep breath. “Can I...?” He hesitated for just a second before leaning in.

Hyukjae’s eyes widened in surprise, but then he leaned in too, closing the distance. Their lips touched in a soft peck, innocent and sweet.

When they pulled back, Donghae’s cheeks burned brighter than ever. Hyukjae laughed softly, the sound happy and carefree. “That was nice,” he said, his eyes sparkling.

As he walked into the schoolyard, he glanced back at his friend? partner?, who gave him a thumbs-up before heading off. He smiled to himself, proud of himself for his courage.

After school, Donghae agreed to accompany the older boy to the market to get groceries for the week. The two made their way through the crowd and stopped at the familiar stall where Mrs Park sold her specialties.

“Hello, boys!” she greeted them warmly, her small, black eyes twinkling with familiarity. “What brings you here today?”

“We wanted some of your dried fish,” Hyukjae replied, grinning. “We are making a stew so delicious you’d think a chef had cooked it.”

The old lady’s eyes shifted to Donghae, who was standing close to Hyukjae, their shoulders almost touching. She noted the familiarity and the subtle, warm glances they exchanged. As she handed over a paper bag full of fish, she couldn’t help but smile knowingly.

“You two seem different today,” she said, her voice gentle but curious. “Is there something you’d like to share with this old lady?”

Donghae blushed, glancing at Hyukjae nervously. Hyukjae chuckled, putting a reassuring hand on Donghae’s shoulder. “I guess you could say that,” he said, looking at Donghae fondly. “We’ve gotten closer.”

The old lady’s smile widened. “Ah, young love,” she mused. “I remember those days. It’s good to see such happiness.”

Donghae’s face turned a deeper shade of red, but he couldn’t help but smile. “It’s... it’s nice,” he admitted softly.

The old lady took Donghae’s hand kindly. “Hold on to each other,” she advised. “In a place like this, finding someone who cares is a rare treasure.”

Hyukjae nodded. “We will. Thank you.”

They left the stall with the fish, feeling lighter and happier.

“Guess we’re not that subtle, right?” Hyukjae joked.

Donghae laughed, the sound filled with genuine joy. “I guess not. But it’s okay. I like it this way.”

Hyukjae smiled, draping an arm around Donghae’s shoulders. “Me too, Ddohae. Me too.”

As they walked back from the market, the old lady's words remained in their minds. They couldn't help but wonder about Jungsoo and how he would react to the changes in their relationship.

Donghae glanced at Hyukjae, who seemed lost in thought, taking his hand. "Do you think Jungsoo will notice?" he asked, a hint of worry in his voice.

The older boy sighed, his expression tense. "He might. Jungsoo is pretty observant, even if he's busy with work. But... I don't know how he'll react."

Donghae frowned, biting his lip. "I don't want him to get mad. He has a short temper, and I don't want to cause any problems."

Hyukjae tightened his grip on Donghae's hand. "I know. He just cares about you a lot. We'll just have to be careful around him and take things slow."

Donghae nodded, feeling a bit more at ease but still anxious. "I hope you're right. I just don't want to make things worse."

"I guess we can handle it, we just have to be prepared for whatever happens." Hyukjae said, trying to sound confident despite his own worries.

Donghae smiled weakly. "Thanks, Hyukjae. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Hyukjae chuckled. "Good thing you'll never have to find out, kiddo."

As they approached their apartment, both boys couldn’t help but reflect on Jungsoo’s reaction earlier that morning. The memory of his sharp words and the cold look in his eyes weighed heavily on them.

Donghae sighed, his shoulders slumping. "I didn't expect Jungsoo to get so angry earlier. He looked really hurt."

Hyukjae nodded, the expression on his face suddenly serious. "Yeah, he did. I think he feels like he's losing you or something. We've always been like brothers, but this... it's different."

"I just wish he understood," Donghae said softly, his voice tinged with frustration. "It's not like I care any less about him. I just... I don't know how to explain it." Donghae's eyes welled up with tears as he struggled to find the words to say, but he blinked them away quickly. "I don't want to come between you two. I hate seeing you fight because of me."

"Hey," Hyukjae said gently, turning to face Donghae, taking the younger boy’s face in his hands. "It's not your fault. Jungsoo just needs time to understand. We'll talk to him together, okay? We'll make him see that nothing's changed between us, except that now there's something new and good."

Donghae nodded, wiping his eyes. "I hope so. I don't think i could stand losing either of you."

"You won't," Hyukjae promised, softly stroking Donghae's cheeks, wiping his tears away. "We'll figure it out. I love you, remember? We stick together, no matter what."

Chapter Text

Jungsoo's thoughts were a tangled mess of worries and regrets as he walked. His responsibilities weighed down on him, and each day at the factory drained his energy and spirit. He looked up at the darkening sky, now almost black, as a sigh escaped his lips.

For the past few weeks, he had noticed the growing bond between Hyukjae and Donghae. The younger boy’s laughter was more frequent, and his smile became brighter whenever he was with his friend. Jungsoo couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy. It wasn’t that he begrudged them for their happiness, but he worried that Donghae might be slipping away from him, finding a kind of solace in Hyukjae that Jungsoo himself struggled to provide.

As he reached their small apartment, he paused at the door, taking a deep breath. The muffled sounds of Donghae and Hyukjae's voices filtered through the thin walls. Jungsoo tried to build stronger walls around himself to not let out how he was feeling and entered, greeted by the familiar sight of Donghae's beautiful smile.

"Hey, Hyung! You're back!" Donghae's face lit up as he ran towards the door to greet his brother.

"Yeah, I'm back," Jungsoo replied, forcing a smile. "I was thinking, Donghae... How about we do something together tomorrow? Just the two of us?"

Donghae’s eyes widened in surprise. "Really? Like what?"

Jungsoo hesitated, then an idea struck him. "How about we visit Gyeongbokgung Palace? The ruins are still a sight."

Donghae’s face brightened with excitement. His tutor had once told him about that place, but he had never thought he would actually be able to go to the Earth’s surface and see it with his own eyes. Yet, there he was, on Earth, in Hwaseong, the very city that had been the capital of several empires and countries throughout history.

"That sounds amazing! I've always wanted to see it!" He exclaimed.

Jungsoo nodded. "It's settled then. We'll go first thing in the morning."

The next day, as the sun climbed into the sky, Jungsoo and Donghae set off towards the heart of the old city. The journey on the train was a mix of anticipation and reflection for Jungsoo. He wanted this day to be special, a chance to reconnect with his brother and show him that he still cared for him.

They arrived at the palace grounds. The once grand structure was now a hauntingly beautiful ruin. Donghae stared in awe at the crumbling walls and remains of what had once been a symbol of power and culture. The brothers wandered through the remnants of ancient architecture. The younger boy's eyes were wide with wonder as he took in the crumbling structures.

They found a spot among the broken pillars and sat down. Donghae, curious, turned to Jungsoo.

"Jungsoo, can you tell me more about this place? What was it like back then?" he asked, his voice tinged with awe.

Jungsoo leaned back against a cracked column, gazing up at the sky as he recalled the fragments of history he had heard. "Well, this palace was built during the Joseon Dynasty, in the year of 1395. It was the main royal palace, where the kings lived and ruled."

Donghae's curiosity deepened. "What do you know about the Joseon Dynasty?"

"Not as much as I'd like," Jungsoo admitted, "but I can tell you a bit. The Joseon Dynasty lasted for over 500 years, from the late 14th century to the late 19th century. It was founded by King Taejo, and during its height, it was known for its advancements in science, technology, and culture."

"500 years? That's a long time! What kind of advancements?" Donghae's voice was filled with wonder.

"They had a lot of scholars and invented many things," Jungsoo explained. "For example, King Sejong the Great, one of the most famous kings, created the Korean alphabet, Hangul. It was meant to be simple so everyone could learn to read and write."

"Hangul? That’s amazing! What about this palace? Did any famous events happen here?" Donghae's eyes took in the ruins, imagining the grandeur that once was there.

"Gyeongbokgung was the heart of the dynasty. There were coronations, royal weddings, and state ceremonies here. But it wasn’t always peaceful. The palace was burned down during the Japanese invasions in the late 16th century and was later rebuilt," Jungsoo shared.

"It’s sad to see it like this now. So much history just... fading away," Donghae said softly, his eyes lingering on a fallen pillar.

"Yeah, but it's a reminder of where we come from," Jungsoo said, placing a hand on Donghae's shoulder. "Even though it's in ruins, it’s a symbol of our resilience as a nation. The people who built this place and lived here, the old Koreans, went through a lot but they kept going, just like us."

Donghae nodded, absorbing the information. He looked around at the crumbling walls and fallen statues, feeling a deeper connection to this side of his heritage. "Just like us in Hwaseong... I wish I could have seen it in its glory days."

"Me too," Jungsoo said with a sigh. "But even now, there’s beauty in it. It’s a testament to our history and our strength. And who knows, maybe one day, places like this will be restored."

They sat in companionable silence for a while, the grandeur of the past mixing with the harsh reality of their present. 

"Thank you for bringing me here, Hyung. It means a lot," Donghae said, breaking the silence.

"You know, Donghae," Jungsoo said, pausing in front of a particularly well-preserved wall, "I wanted to spend time with you today because... I feel like I've been missing out. I see you and Hyukjae getting closer, and I guess... I was afraid you didn't like me as much anymore."

Donghae's eyes widened in surprise. "Jungsoo hyung! That's not true! I love spending time with you. You're my brother."

Jungsoo's heart warmed up. "I know. I just wanted to make sure you knew that I care about you too. Even if I work a lot, I think about you all the time."

The sun was high in the sky by the time Jungsoo and Donghae found a quiet spot among the ruins. After a rainy night, the air was unusually clear for a place like Hwaseong, carrying with it the faint scent of wet earth and stone. They spread out a worn blanket on a patch of grass growing through what once was a gravel courtyard, and unpacked the simple picnic Jungsoo had prepared that morning.

Jungsoo laid out triangle kimbap, kimchi, and a few cans of fruit, while Donghae pulled out a couple boxes of juice, plastic cups and a water bottle. The two brothers sat side by side, taking in the serene atmosphere. The ancient palace, with its crumbling walls and overgrown courtyards, seemed to whisper stories of the past.

They ate in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. The sounds of birds chirping and the rustling of leaves created a peaceful backdrop to their meal. Jungsoo watched Donghae out of the corner of his eye, noting how much his younger brother had grown. The once terrified young boy now seemed to feel completely at ease in the city.

"Do you think the people who lived here were happy?" Donghae asked suddenly, breaking the silence.

Jungsoo thought for a moment before answering. "I think they had their own struggles, just like we do. But they also had moments of happiness, like this one."

Donghae nodded thoughtfully, taking another bite of his rice triangle. "Yeah, I guess you're right. It's strange to think about how different life must have been back then."

"It is," Jungsoo agreed. "But at the core, people are the same. We all want to be happy, to feel safe, to be with the ones we love."

As they lay there, Donghae turned to Jungsoo. "You know, back in the islands, I always wished I had a brother to play with."

Jungsoo glanced at him, surprised. "Really?"

"Yeah," Donghae replied. "I always felt like something was missing. I had friends, but it wasn't the same. I used to imagine what it would be like to have a brother, someone to share everything with, someone who understood me."

Jungsoo felt a pang of guilt, knowing how long they had been separated.

"I'm sorry we missed out on all those years together." Was all he could say.

Donghae shook his head. "It's not your fault, Jungsoo. And now that we're together, it feels like that missing piece is finally here. I wouldn't trade this for anything."

Jungsoo smiled, feeling a lump forming in his throat. "Neither would I, Donghae. Neither would I."

They finished their picnic, savoring the simple but delicious food. Afterward, they lay back on the blanket, staring up at the sky. The sky was the usual shade of gray, but the sun rays filtered through the clouds of smog, making for a bright afternoon. For a while, they just enjoyed the peace and quiet.

As the sun began to set over the palace ruins, the two brothers packed up their things and made their way home.

Chapter Text

In the gloom of their apartment, Donghae and Hyukjae lay sprawled on the couch, Jungsoo gone once again for the night shift and the remnants of their game night forgotten. A charged silence filled the room, interrupted only by their quiet breaths and the occasional rustle of fabric.

Donghae's fingers delicately traced the contours of Hyukjae's cheek, his touch feather light yet tinged with undeniable longing. The older boy closed his eyes, savoring the warmth that spread from the younger's touch. Without a word, he leaned in, their lips meeting in a tender kiss that ignited a fire between them.

Hyukjae's hands found their way to Donghae's shoulders, fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt as they pulled closer, craving more of his warmth. Donghae responded eagerly, hands slipping around Hyukjae's waist, drawing him into his lap. The kiss deepened, each movement a silent plea for more, their bodies fusing together in a dance of desire.

They kissed with a desperate intensity, their movements urgent and unrestrained. Donghae's hands slid under Hyukjae's shirt, exploring the warmth of his skin, while Hyukjae's fingers tangled in the younger boy's longish hair, pulling him in even tighter. Every touch, every kiss, seemed to fuel the fire between them, burning hotter each second.

They couldn't keep their hands off each other, each caress more insistent than the last. Donghae's breath hitched as Hyukjae's lips trailed down his neck, leaving a path of warm, wet kisses. His hands gripped the older's hips, drawing a gasp from him as their bodies pressed even closer.

Breaking apart for a moment, Hyukjae's breath came in short gasps against Donghae's lips. "You feel..." the older boy murmured, voice husky with emotion.

Donghae's response was a soft chuckle, a warm breath against the other boy's cheek. "You too," he whispered, his hands leaving trails of tingling sensation on Hyukjae’s back.

Unable to resist, the older boy leaned back, guiding Donghae down onto the couch cushions, bodies shifting seamlessly until they were tangled together, limbs entwined. Every touch, every caress, spoke of an unspoken yearning that had simmered beneath the surface for too long.

As their clothes flew off, Donghae's hands roamed freely now, tracing the curve of Hyukjae's spine. Hyukjae's lips trailed kisses along Donghae's torso, tasting the salt-sweetness of his skin and eliciting soft sighs of pleasure. Their kisses grew more urgent, and heat flared between them, igniting a wildfire that consumed all rational thought.

They broke apart, breathless and flushed, foreheads resting against each other as they gasped for air.

The world outside their cocoon of warmth and need faded into insignificance, leaving only the rhythmic exchange of breath and the pounding of hearts. Time seemed to slow to a standstill as they explored each other, hands and lips mapping out familiar territories and discovering new ones.

"I can't get enough of you," Hyukjae confessed in a husky whisper, lips brushing against Donghae's ear.

Donghae groaned softly, hands sliding down to grip Hyukjae's hips. "You drive me crazy," he admitted, voice thick with need.

Their kisses resumed with a renewed hunger, lips crashing together in a frenzy of need and passion. Hyukjae's hands explored every inch of Donghae's body, memorizing the contours, reveling in the warmth and strength beneath their touch. Donghae's own hands roamed over Hyukjae's back, pulling them impossibly closer, their bodies melting together in a heated embrace.

Donghae’s heart fluttered, knowing what he wanted, but more than that, knowing that he was ready. Ready to give himself to Hyukjae in a way he had never done before, not just physically, but wholeheartedly.

"I trust you," Donghae whispered, his voice barely audible as he met Hyukjae’s eyes. He wanted Hyukjae to know that this was more than just desire; it was about giving a part of himself he had never given to anyone else.

Hyukjae’s expression softened further, his hand brushing Donghae's cheek gently, as though he, too, understood the weight of this moment. "You don't have to be scared, Donghae. I'm here."

Lost in each other, they moved with a rhythm born of instinct and desire, bodies pressed together in a dance of need. Soft moans and sighs filled the air, mingling with the sound of their racing hearts. Time seemed to stretch, each moment precious as they drowned in pleasure.

They moved together, their closeness amplifying the desire, but more than that, it was about trust, the way Donghae surrendered himself completely, knowing that Hyukjae would always be there to catch him. And in Hyukjae’s eyes, there was nothing but tenderness as they came together in the quiet of the night, both of them reaching a climax and dropping down on the couch in exhaustion.

"That was..." Hyukjae began, voice barely above a whisper, eyes searching Donghae’s face with a mix of awe and vulnerability.

"Amazing," Donghae finished, a soft smile playing on his lips. "I've wanted this... with you... for a while now," he confessed, his voice tinged with sincerity.

Hyukjae's heart skipped a beat, a rush of warmth spreading through him at the younger boy's admission. "Really?" he asked, their voice barely a murmur.

Donghae nodded, his gaze never leaving Hyukjae's. "I've thought about this moment so many times... but it's even better than I imagined."

Hyukjae felt a surge of emotions: relief, joy, and a deep sense of connection. "Me too," he admitted. "I've... I've wanted you, too," he confessed, his cheeks flushing with a mix of shyness and contentment.

Donghae's smile widened, a tender expression in his eyes. "I'm glad we finally... took that step," he said softly, his thumb gently caressing Hyukjae's cheek.

Hyukjae leaned into Donghae's touch, a small sigh escaping his lips. "Me too," he whispered, their heart feeling lighter than it had in a long time.

The air around them was infused with a serene intimacy, their bodies fitting together like two pieces of a puzzle. Hyukjae's hand rested possessively on Donghae's lower back as he feltl the steady rise and fall of his lover's breath against their cheek. In the quiet of the night, they lay together, basking in the afterglow of their shared moment.

The night was still and quiet, the city a distant backdrop as both boys lay in their cocoon of intimacy. Donghae lay curled up under the thick blanket, his mind racing. The warmth of Hyukjae's body beside him had initially been comforting, but now, in the aftermath of their passion, insecurity began to creep in.

Hyukjae turned to face him, sensing the shift in Donghae's mood. "Hey," he whispered softly, brushing a lock of hair away from Donghae's forehead. "What's going on in that head of yours?"

Donghae hesitated, staring at the ceiling. "I just... I feel different. What if this changes things between us?"

Hyukjae's eyes softened, and he reached out to take Donghae's hand in his. "Donghae, nothing's going to change how I feel about you. This... what we have... it's special. It doesn't just go away because we shared something intimate."

Donghae's eyes filled with doubt. "But what if you get tired of me? What if this was just... a moment?"

Hyukjae sighed, pulling Donghae closer until their foreheads touched. "Donghae, listen to me. I don't do things I don't mean. When I said you're my faithful companion I meant it. You're important to me, more than you realize."

Donghae looked into Hyukjae's eyes, searching for the truth in his words. "Really?"

"Really," Hyukjae confirmed, his voice steady and sincere. "I've never felt this way about anyone before. You're not just a moment, Donghae. You're my future."

A tear slipped down Donghae's cheek, and he quickly wiped it away. "I guess I'm just scared. I've never felt like this before."

Hyukjae cupped Donghae's face in his hands, his touch gentle but firm. "It's okay to be scared. I'm scared too. But we'll figure it out together, one step at a time. You don't have to go through this alone."

Donghae nodded. "Thank you, Hyukjae."

Hyukjae smiled, pressing a soft kiss to Donghae's lips. "Anytime, kiddo."

Donghae laughed, the sound light and free. "I'm not a kid. Not after what just happened."

"Okay, okay," Hyukjae chuckled. "My bad. But you know what I mean."

Sensing Donghae's unease, Hyukjae got up quietly and slipped into his pajamas. He walked to the kitchen, the floorboards creaking gently under his weight. He rummaged through the cupboards, finding the tin of tea leaves and realizing they were down to the last few. Determined to comfort Donghae, he carefully brewed a cup of tea, the fragrant steam filling the small kitchen.

A few minutes later, he returned to the bedroom with the steaming cup in hand. "Hey," he whispered softly, handing the cup to Donghae and covering the younger boy with their old blanket. "I made you some tea. It might help you relax."

Donghae sat up, taking the cup with a grateful smile. "Thanks, Hyukjae." He took a sip, the warmth spreading through him and easing some of his tension.

Donghae hesitated, staring at the cup in his hands. Hyukjae's eyes softened, and he reached out to take Donghae's free hand in his.  

Chapter Text

The next morning, the apartment was filled with the scent of freshly cooked eggs and toast. Jungsoo stood at the stove, his back to the other two, who sat at the small kitchen table. The clinking of cutlery against plates was the only sound, the usual morning banter replaced by an awkward silence.

Donghae stared at his plate, pushing his food around with his fork. His mind kept drifting back to the previous night,to the feel of Hyukjae’s lips on his, the warmth of his embrace. Now, in the light of the morning, everything felt different. He could feel Jungsoo’s eyes on him, and he knew he wasn’t the only one who noticed the tension.

Hyukjae, usually so confident and carefree, was quieter than usual. He looked at the younger boy every now and then, his eyes filled with concern. He wanted to reach out, to reassure him, but with Jungsoo so close, he didn’t dare.

Jungsoo finally broke the silence. “Is everything okay? You two are awfully quiet this morning.”

Donghae looked up, forcing a smile. “Yeah, everything’s fine. Just… tired, I guess.”

He just raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further. “Alright. Just make sure you eat something. You have a long day ahead.”

Donghae nodded, taking a small bite of his food. He felt Hyukjae’s gaze on him, and when he looked up, their eyes met. Hyukjae gave him a small, encouraging smile, but it only made his heart race faster.

After breakfast, both got ready for the walk to school. Jungsoo watched them from the doorway, his expression thoughtful. “You two be careful, okay?”

“We will,” Hyukjae said, giving him a reassuring nod. He then turned to Donghae, the usual playful glint in his eyes. “Ready to go, kiddo?”

He rolled his eyes but couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at his lips. “I told you, I’m not a kid.”

“Sure, sure,” Hyukjae teased, ruffling the boy’s hair. The gesture made his cheeks flush.

As they walked to school, the air between them was thick with unspoken words. Donghae kept his eyes on the ground, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. His friend walked beside him, his usual playful demeanor tempered by the younger boy’s seriousness.

“Hey,” Hyukjae said softly, breaking the silence. “You okay?”

He looked at him, then quickly looked away. “I… I don’t know. Last night… it was a lot.”

“I know,” the older boy said, his voice gentle. “But it doesn’t change anything between us. I’m still here for you, love. Always.”

Donghae nodded, feeling a bit of the tension ease from his shoulders. “Thanks, Hyuk. I just… I don’t want my brother to know. Not yet.”

Hyukjae’s expression grew serious. “I understand. We’ll take it one step at a time.”

They reached the school, and Donghae paused at the gate, looking up at Hyukjae. “I’ll see you later?”

“Definitely,” he replied, giving him a warm smile.

Donghae nodded and watched as Hyukjae walked away.

Jungsoo leaned against the kitchen counter, his coffee growing cold in his hands. The awkwardness at breakfast had not gone unnoticed, and it gnawed at him. He had always been able to read his younger brother, but lately, things seemed different. More complicated.

He sighed, taking a look at the clock. In a few minutes, he would have to leave for work. His mind wandered to Heechul, that one handsome coworker of his. They had grown close over the past few months, sharing jokes to make the late night shifts more bearable. There was an ease in his company that Jungsoo found comforting, a welcome distraction from the daily struggles in the city.

But then there was Donghae. The bond they were slowly building was something he cherished deeply, even if it meant putting aside his own desires. The memory of their recent visit to the ruins of Gyeongbokgung Palace came to mind. The younger boy’s eyes had lit up with curiosity and awe, a rare sight that made Jungsoo’s heart swell. He wanted more moments like that, where they could just be brothers, without their circumstances weighing down on them.

His phone buzzed, pulling him from his thoughts. It was a message from Heechul: “Dinner today? Got some things to tell you.”

Jungsoo’s thumb hovered over the keyboard. He wanted to say yes, to escape for a while and enjoy his coworker’s company. But he couldn’t shake the feeling that Donghae needed him more.

He typed a quick response: “Can’t today, maybe another time.”

Setting his phone down, he made a decision. He would spend more time with his brother, make sure his brother knew he was there for him, no matter what. The thought of Donghae feeling neglected, or turning to Hyukjae instead, stirred a pang of jealousy in him. He had worked so hard to bring his brother here, to give him a better life, and he wasn’t about to let that slip away.

With a determined nod, he grabbed his jacket and headed out the door. As he walked to the factory, he made a mental list of things he could do with Donghae. Maybe another visit to a historical site, or a simple walk by the river. Anything to show him that he mattered, that Jungsoo cared.

Work was busy, as always, but Jungsoo’s mind was elsewhere. During his lunch break, he found himself thinking of ways to balance his time between his demanding job and his responsibility as an older brother. He knew it wouldn’t be easy, but Donghae’s happiness was worth the effort.

His shift ended later than usual, the sun already gone as he made his way home. The day had been long, but it wasn't the work that had drained him. It was the nagging sense of something being wrong with Donghae. The awkwardness at breakfast, the flustered look on his brother’s face. All of it pointed to something he couldn’t ignore.

As he walked, his thoughts turned darker. Hyukjae had been spending a lot of time with him, more than seemed necessary. They had always been close, but now it felt different. Suspicion and anger began to brew within him. What if that idiot was taking advantage of his precious brother? The thought made Jungsoo’s blood boil.

He reached the apartment, his mind racing. Inside, the scene was quiet. His friend was lounging on the worn out couch, flipping through channels on the TV. Donghae was nowhere in sight.

“Where’s Donghae?” Jungsoo asked, his voice sharper than intended.

Hyukjae looked up, a casual smile on his face. “He’s in the room, I think. Why?”

Jungsoo didn’t respond. He walked to the shared bedroom and knocked lightly before pushing the door open. Donghae was sitting on the futon, a book open in front of him, but he wasn’t reading. He looked up, with surprise and something else… fear? flashing in his eyes.

“Hey, Jungsoo,” he said, his voice lower than usual.

Jungsoo took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. “Donghae, can we talk?”

The boy nodded, closing his book. Jungsoo led him back to the living room, where Hyukjae still lounged, seemingly unaware of the tension.

“Can you give us a moment?” Jungsoo asked, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Hyukjae’s smile faded slightly, but he nodded and got up. “Sure, I’ll be in the room.”

Once their friend was gone, Jungsoo turned to his brother, struggling to keep his anger in check. “Donghae, is everything okay? You seemed… different this morning.”

The boy looked down, his hands fidgeting in his lap. “It’s nothing, really. Just school stuff.”

Jungsoo’s patience snapped. “Don’t lie to me. I know something’s going on. Is it Hyukjae? Has he done something to you?”

Donghae’s head shot up, eyes wide. “No! It’s not like that. He would never…”

“Then what is it?” He demanded. “You’ve been acting strange, and I need to know why.”

The boy hesitated, then took a deep breath. “Hyung, it’s not Hyukjae’s fault. I’ve just been… confused. About a lot of things. And he has been there for me, that’s all.”

Jungsoo’s anger didn’t dissipate, but it shifted. “Confused about what?”

Donghae swallowed hard. “About… my feelings… in the city. I’ve never felt like this before, and I didn’t know how to deal with it. But he didn’t do anything wrong. He’s just been trying to help.”

Jungsoo felt a mix of relief and frustration. “You should have come to me. I’m your brother. I want to help you too.”

As they pulled apart, Jungsoo felt a mixture of fear and confusion. He needed to make sure that whatever was happening between his friend and his brother was healthy and consensual.

“We need to talk,” Jungsoo said, stepping into the bedroom. “About Donghae.”

His friend nodded. “I figured this was coming.”

Jungsoo took a deep breath. “I don’t know what’s going on between you two, but Donghae is my brother. If you hurt him, I swear…”

Hyukjae held up his hands. “I get it. I care about that kid too. I would never hurt him.”

Jungsoo studied Hyukjae’s face, looking for any sign of deceit. Finding none, he nodded slowly. “Okay. But if I find out you’re lying…”

“You won’t,” Hyukjae said firmly. “I promise.”

He left the room, his mind still buzzing with worry and doubt. But for now, he had to trust that his friend was telling the truth.

Chapter Text

Over the next few days, Jungsoo couldn’t help but notice the changes in Donghae’s behavior. His younger brother, once independent and spirited, had become increasingly clingy towards Hyukjae. Every moment they weren’t in school or at work, he was by the older boy’s side, seeking his attention and affirmation. It was as if he was afraid of losing him, and the constant need for reassurance was starting to take a toll on both of them.

Hyukjae, for his part, seemed patient and understanding. He would ruffle Donghae’s hair, offer comforting words, and never pushed him away. But Jungsoo could see the strain it was causing. His smiles were becoming more forced, and there were moments when he seemed overwhelmed.

One evening, as they all sat down for dinner, he decided to address the issue. He watched as his younger brother, seated next to Hyukjae, leaned into him, their bodies brushing against each other as Donghae hung on his every word. Hyukjae's arm rested casually behind Donghae on the back of the chair, creating an intimate space that made Jungsoo's stomach twist with unease.

“So, Donghae,” he began, trying to keep his tone light, “how’s school been lately?”

Donghae glanced at him briefly before turning back to his friend. “It’s okay, I guess. Hyukee helped me with my homework today. He’s really smart.”

Jungsoo forced a smile. “That’s great. But you know, you can always ask me for help too.”

Donghae nodded, but it was clear his mind was elsewhere. He reached out and took Hyukjae’s hand, interlocking their fingers. Hyukjae shot Jungsoo a wary look before turning back to the boy.

“Hey, kiddo, how about we play some video games after dinner?” he suggested, trying to deflect the tension.

Donghae’s face lit up. “Yeah, I’d love that!”

Jungsoo sighed inwardly, knowing this wasn’t the time to push. But later that night, after his brother had gone to bed, he cornered his friend in the kitchen.

“We need to talk, again.” He said, his voice low.

Hyukjae nodded, looking tired. “I know. It’s about Donghae’s behavior, isn’t it?”

Jungsoo nodded. “He’s been so clingy lately. I’m worried about him. I know he’s been through a lot, but this… it’s not healthy.”

Hyukjae ran a hand through his hair, looking conflicted. “I know. I’ve noticed it too. But I don’t want to push him away. He needs support right now.”

“We need to set some boundaries. For both your sakes,” Jungsoo stated firmly. His eyes darkened as he leaned closer to Hyukjae, his voice lowering to a dangerous whisper. "You’re right that he needs support. But if you keep getting too close to him... I’m going to do something about it."

Hyukjae frowned. "What are you talking about? I’m just trying to help…"

Jungsoo’s hand slammed down on the counter, cutting him off. "I’m not blind. I see the way he looks at you, the way you look at him." His voice cracked with suppressed anger. "He’s my brother. He’s been through hell, and I’m not going to stand by while you confuse him even more."

Hyukjae opened his mouth to respond, but Jungsoo didn’t give him a chance. "You think I don’t notice the way you two are always so close? How he leans into you, how you pull him in with those stupid little jokes of yours? It's too much."

He stiffened, his tired expression quickly hardening. "I’m not…"

"You’re too close," Jungsoo interrupted, his tone sharp and final. "And I don’t know what’s going on in that stupid head of yours, but if you don’t put some distance between you two, I’ll make sure you regret it." His sharp gaze pierced through Hyukjae like a dagger.

His jaw clenched. He took a deep breath, trying to stay calm, but the frustration was evident in his voice. "You’re threatening me? After everything we’ve been through together, you think I’d hurt him?"

Jungsoo’s gaze didn’t waver. "I don’t know what to think anymore. All I know is that he’s vulnerable, and I’ll do whatever it takes to protect him. If that means keeping you away from him, then so be it."

Hyukjae stared at him for a long moment, the tension between them thick and suffocating. He finally spoke, his voice cold and controlled. "You don’t get it, Jungsoo. I care about him too. I would never hurt him. You know? Maybe you're the one who's confusing him, by always pushing people away."

“If I see you lay your hands on him again, I won’t hesitate to do something. Don't make me have to protect him from you.”

Jungsoo's fists tightened at his sides. He turned and walked out of the room, leaving Hyukjae standing alone.

The next day, he decided to spend more time with his brother, hoping to steer him away from spending too much time with Hyukjae. He took a day off work and planned an outing, hoping to reconnect with his brother.

“Hey, Donghae,” he said over breakfast, “how about we spend the day together? Just you and me.”

Donghae looked up,visibly surprised. “Really?”

“Really,” he confirmed with a smile. “We could visit Bukchon Village or maybe go to the Seoul Museum. Whatever you want.”

The boy glanced at Hyukjae, who nodded encouragingly, pretending everything was ok. “Go have fun with your brother. I’ll be here when you get back.”

Jungsoo studied him for a moment. “That’s good. It’s important to have someone you trust. But you know you don’t have to rely on him for everything , right? I’m here too.”

Donghae exhaled sharply, shifting uncomfortably. His mind flashed back to that night. Hyukjae’s hands on him, the heat, the way he lost himself completely. He swallowed hard. “It’s… different.”

Jungsoo’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Different how?”

He hesitated. He knew he should just nod and move on, but instead, words slipped out before he could stop them. “Because… some things… you can’t help me with.”

Jungsoo’s grip on his cup tightened. But his face remained perfectly neutral. “What do you mean?”

The boy’s face burned. “Hyung, please .”

Silence reigned briefly over the kitchen. Then Jungsoo let out a light chuckle, shaking his head as if this were all some amusing misunderstanding. “Oh. I see.”

Donghae blinked. “Wait. You do?”

Jungsoo smiled, too easy, too calm. “Of course. You’re just saying that there are certain… emotional things you can only talk to Hyukjae about. Right?”

Donghae swallowed, his stomach twisting. There was something about Jungsoo’s voice. “…Right.”

Jungsoo nodded, his expression unreadable. “That’s what I thought.”

He took another slow sip of his drink, but beneath the table, his free hand curled into a tight fist.

Hyukjae.

Jungsoo’s mind was already spinning, his calm demeanor barely holding together. That jerk had touched Donghae. Crossed a line. Taken something that Jungsoo wasn’t sure Donghae was ready to give. And now Donghae was sitting here, flustered, defending him.

Jungsoo forced another chuckle, setting his cup down with a soft clink. “Well, as long as you’re okay.”

Donghae nodded quickly, sensing the tension but not entirely understanding it. “I am. Really.”

Jungsoo smiled again. But this time, it didn’t reach his eyes.

Because now, he had a lot to say to the man he had thought was his friends.

Over the next few days, Hyukjae began to put some distance between himself and the younger boy, afraid of Jungsoo’s threat. He knew it was for the best, but it was hard seeing Donghae's confused and hurt expression.

One evening, Donghae was sitting on the couch, fidgeting with his phone, waiting for Hyukjae to finish in the kitchen. He finally emerged and sat on the opposite end of the couch. He hesitated for a moment before making his move. Slowly, he shifted across the couch, inching toward the older boy. But just as he was about to reach him, he gently pushed him away, placing a hand on his shoulder to stop him from getting closer.

"Not tonight, Donghae," he said, his voice soft but filled with an unusual seriousness and his nickname absent.

The younger boy blinked, the rejection hitting him like a punch in the stomach. "W-Why?" he stammered, his playful demeanor vanishing. "Did I do something wrong?"

"I was thinking… maybe you should spend some more time with Jungsoo. He's your brother, after all."

Donghae's face fell. "Why? Did he tell you to say that?"

He shook his head, trying to be as gentle as possible. "No, it's not that. It's just... you need to have other people in your life too, not just me. You could also hang out with Kyuhyun, it would be good for you."

"But I like spending time with you," Donghae said, his voice trembling. "Why are you pushing me away?"

He sighed. "I'm not pushing you away. I just think it’s important for you to have a balanced life, we don’t want you to feel like you have to rely on just one of us."

"Did I do something wrong?" the younger boy pleaded, visibly confused.

Hyukjae sighed again, conflicted. "No, it's not that," he muttered, avoiding Donghae's gaze. "It’s just... we need to have some space. For both of us." He leaned back against the couch, rubbing his face with his hands, clearly torn.

Donghae stared at him, hurt flooding his chest. He swallowed hard, feeling pathetic for the longing that he felt, for the way he'd let his emotions get tangled up in something that clearly wasn’t as mutual as he thought. "But... I thought we were okay," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Hyukjae closed his eyes for a moment, trying to gather his thoughts. "We are, Donghae," he replied. "But this... this can’t keep happening. I care about you. More than you probably know. But I need to take a step back before things get out of hand."

Donghae's heart sank at the words. He couldn't help but feel utterly defeated, like he had misread everything.

He looked down, tears welling up in his eyes. "I don't understand. I thought you liked being with me."

"I do," Hyukjae said quickly, moving closer but stopping himself from getting too close. "I just want what's best for you."

Donghae stood up abruptly. "This isn't fair. I thought we were... I thought you..."

He couldn't finish the sentence. He turned and ran to his room, slamming the door behind him. The older boy put his head in his hands, feeling a wave of guilt and sadness wash over him. This was harder than he thought it would be.

Later that night, Jungsoo came home and found Hyukjae sitting alone in the living room. He could sense the tension in the air.

"What's going on?" He asked, sitting down next to him.

Hyukjae sighed. "I tried to set some boundaries with Donghae, like we talked about. But he took it really hard. He's upset. I feel terrible."

Jungsoo frowned, looking towards the closed bedroom door. His jaw tightened. 

"Yeah, I can imagine," he muttered. The idea of his younger brother possibly having a physical relationship with his best friend horrified him, but he tried to keep his composure. "I know it's tough, but it's for the best. He is confused and doesn’t need any more distractions."

Hyukjae nodded, but his heart felt heavy. He cared about Donghae deeply and didn't want to hurt him. He hoped that, in time, the boy would understand. 

Meanwhile, as Jungsoo turned away, his mind raced with unease, pretending to himself that his discomfort was purely out of brotherly concern. But deep down, he knew there was more to it, something he didn’t want to confront. Not yet.

Chapter Text

The next morning, Donghae barely spoke to Hyukjae. He avoided eye contact and kept his distance. When it was time to walk to school, He grabbed his backpack and headed for the door without waiting for the older boy.

"Hae, wait up," Hyukjae called after him, but he didn't slow down.

As he caught up, he reached out to touch Donghae's shoulder, but he shrugged him off. "I don't need you to walk me to school," he said coldly.

Hyukjae felt a pang of hurt but nodded. "Alright. Just... be careful, okay?"

He didn't respond. He walked off, leaving him standing there, feeling more lost than ever.

Back at home, Jungsoo watched the exchange from the window. He knew this was going to be a difficult transition, but he hoped that eventually, his younger brother would see they were only trying to help him.

However, as Donghae walked away from Hyukjae, his heart ached with disappointment. In the back of his mind, he had hoped that he would insist, that he would fight just a little harder to stay close. But he hadn't.

Each step felt heavier than the last as he walked alone. The streets of Hwaseong seemed louder and more chaotic without the older boy’s comforting presence beside him. Donghae's mind replayed the moment over and over. At school, he struggled to concentrate. He missed Hyukjae's teasing, his playful nudges, and the way he made even the mundane walk to school an adventure.

After school, he took his time heading home. He wandered through the streets, his thoughts a jumble of confusion and longing. He passed by a small park and sat on a bench, watching the children play. He envied their carefree laughter, the simplicity of their friendships.

When he finally returned to the apartment, he found Hyukjae in the kitchen, haphazardly chopping some old, discolored vegetables for dinner. The older boy looked up, his eyes filled with concern, but he didn't say anything. Donghae dropped his backpack by the door and stood there for a moment, feeling frustration and sadness.

"You didn't have to follow me to school, but it would've been nice if you did," he blurted out, unable to contain his feelings any longer.

Hyukjae put down the knife and turned to face him. "I'm trying to give you space. I thought that's what you needed."

"What I need is for you to care," Donghae said, his voice breaking. "You're just pushing me away now."

Hyukjae stepped closer, hesitating before reaching out to him. "I do care, love. More than you know. I'm just trying to do what's best for you."

"Then why does it feel so awful? How do you even know that this is what is best for me?" the younger boy whispered, as his eyes filled with tears.

He couldn't hold back his emotions any longer. The confusion, the frustration, and the sense of abandonment all came crashing down. Tears streamed down his face as he stood in the kitchen, facing Hyukjae.

"Do you regret it?" he asked, his voice trembling. "Do you regret what happened between us?"

Hyukjae's face fell, a pained expression crossing his features. He turned fully toward Donghae. "It's not that simple. I don’t regret what happened. Not at all."

"Then explain it to me," he pleaded. "Because right now, I feel like I'm the only one who cares."

Hyukjae took a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. "It's not that I regret what happened, I wouldn’t change any of it. But Jungsoo...he threatened me."

Donghae's eyes widened. "What do you mean?"

"Jungsoo found out," he admitted, his voice heavy with guilt. "He was furious. He said I was taking advantage of you, that I was ruining everything. He made it clear that if I didn't back off, there'd be consequences. I didn't want to make things worse for you, so I thought...maybe giving you some space was the best option."

Donghae's tears flowed freely now. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"I thought I could handle it on my own. But now I see I was wrong. I'm so sorry, really, I never wanted to hurt you."

Donghae felt a mixture of relief and heartache. He stepped closer to Hyukjae, reaching out to hold his hand. "I don't care what Jungsoo says. I just want to be with you. I don't want to feel like I'm losing you."

He, in turn, pulled him into his lap, wrapping his arms around his smaller body, holding him tightly. "I'm sorry, love. I never wanted to hurt you."

Donghae buried his face in Hyukjae's shoulder, letting the tears fall. They flowed freely, soaking into the fabric of his shirt. For a moment, they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms.

When they finally pulled apart, Hyukjae's hand lingered on his face, gently wiping away the tears. His gaze softened as their eyes met. "Let’s figure this out together, okay?" He murmured, his thumb brushing lightly across Donghae’s cheek. "The last thing I would ever do is hurt you."

Without thinking, Donghae leaned in, his heart racing, and their lips met in a tender, hesitant kiss. It was soft at first, filled with all the uncertainty and longing that had built between them over the past few days. But soon, the kiss deepened, growing warmer, more certain.

When they pulled away, breathless, Hyukjae's forehead rested gently against Donghae's. "We’ll figure it out," he whispered again, this time with more conviction.

Just then, the front door opened, and Jungsoo walked in. His eyes immediately focused on how his brother was sitting on top of the man he thought was his best friend, on their joined hands, their touching foreheads. His expression darkened. "What's going on here?" he demanded.

Donghae stood his ground, his heart pounding in his chest. "We're talking. About what you did."

Jungsoo's face flushed with anger. "I did what I had to do to protect you."

"Protect me?" He shot back. "All you've done is push us further apart. You don't get to control who I care about."

Jungsoo took a step forward, but Hyukjae held up a hand. "Jungsoo, we need to talk about this. All of us."

For a moment, the tension in the room was palpable. Then Jungsoo let out a frustrated sigh, rubbing his temples. "Fine. But I won't have you ruining his life."

Donghae's eyes filled with determination. "You don't get to decide that. We can make our own choices."

Donghae's heart raced as the confrontation reached a boiling point. Jungsoo's face was contorted with anger, his voice rising with each word.

"You're ruining his life, you bastard!" He shouted, his eyes blazing. "He was doing fine until you came along. How could you take advantage of him like that?"

Hyukjae tried to stay calm, but his own frustration was bubbling up. "It's not like that, Jungsoo. He and I…"

"Hyung," Donghae interrupted, his voice shaking but firm, "you don’t get to make that decision for me. You’re not protecting me, you’re controlling me. He hasn’t done anything wrong. I’m the one who… who wanted this." His voice softened, but his gaze stayed locked with his brother’s, defiant.

Jungsoo’s fists clenched at his sides, his frustration boiling over. "You don’t even know what you’re talking about. You’re young, and this" he gestured between Donghae and Hyukjae, "this isn’t right. He’s supposed to be your friend, and not be doing whatever the hell he is doing to you" His voice cracked.

Hyukjae spoke, his voice calm but strained. "Jungsoo, I would never hurt Donghae. I care about him deeply, and I know you’re worried. But me pushing him away won’t help him. You know that."

Jungsoo’s glare shifted to Hyukjae, his voice dripping with bitterness. "You care about him? This is how you care? By doing that to him? I trusted you. And you…" He paused, his words heavy with disappointment, "you betrayed that trust. You’ve crossed a line, Hyukjae. You need to stay away from him."

Donghae couldn't take it anymore. The anger and hurt twisted inside him like a knife. Without thinking, he turned and bolted for the door. "I can't stay here," he muttered, shoving his feet into his shoes.

"Donghae, wait!" Hyukjae called after him, but Donghae was already out the door, the cool air hitting his face as he sprinted away from the apartment.

He ran aimlessly through the streets of Hwaseong, tears blurring his vision. His chest ached from the combination of physical exertion and emotional pain. He had no idea where he was going; he just needed to get away.

After what felt like hours, he found himself in Gyeongbokgung palace, its once green grass now brown and patchy. He collapsed onto a flight of stairs, his breath coming in ragged gasps. The weight of everything pressed down on him, and he buried his face in his hands.

Why did everything have to be so complicated? All he wanted was to be happy, to find some semblance of normalcy in his life. But now, it felt like everything was falling apart.

Chapter Text

Back at the apartment, Hyukjae stood at the door, his mind racing with worry. "We have to find him," he said, turning to Jungsoo.

Jungsoo's anger had given way to panic. "This is your fault," he spat, the venom in his voice sharp enough to sting. "You’ve been messing with his head and his heart."

Hyukjae’s eyes widened, he felt his heart pounding in his chest. "I never wanted to hurt him! I thought…"

"You thought what?" Jungsoo interrupted, rising his voice. "That you could just walk into his life and take advantage of him while he’s still figuring everything out? He’s just a kid! You’re supposed to be his friend, not some disgusting distraction!"

"It’s not like that! I would never…"

"Then why is he missing? You think he trusts you? You think you’re helping him when all you’re doing is ruining his life? Do you even care?"

"I do care!" he shouted back. "I care about both of you! I didn’t ask for any of this! You think I wanted to get caught up in this mess? I just wanted to help him in this fucking city and somehow we developed feelings!"

"Help him?" Jungsoo laughed bitterly, the sound laced with disbelief. "You’ve done nothing but confuse him! You’re leading him down a path he’s not ready for. How can you be so selfish? You don’t know what it’s like to have someone you love almost slip away from you. You think I’d ever let that happen again?"

Hyukjae’s heart sank as he listened to Jungsoo’s words. He knew his friend was hurting, but the words felt like a punch in the gut. He remembered his own past, losing his family in the floods, and the heartbreak that came with it. ”I know what it feels like to be alone. That’s why I won’t let Donghae feel that way. I’m not trying to take him away from you, I just love him too."

"Love? Is that what you call this?" Jungsoo shot back. "This is a game to you, isn’t it? You think you can just play house with him while I’m at work?"

The air was thick with tension as Jungsoo's fists clenched tightly. His chest moved up and down as he breathed heavily. The man he thought was his friend had taken advantage of his brother, his own flesh and blood. The accusation echoed in his mind, drowning out reason and amplifying his anger to a boiling point.

Hyukjae, caught off guard by Jungsoo's sudden aggression, instinctively raised his arms in defense. Yet, despite the accusations, he restrained himself, trying to remain rooted. He knew retaliating would only escalate the situation further.

The first punch came unexpectedly, a wild swing aimed at his jaw. It hit him with a solid thud, sending a shockwave of pain through his head. He stumbled back, absorbing the impact, his gaze never leaving Jungsoo's.

Jungsoo, however didn't hold back. Punch after punch rained down on Hyukjae, who stood firm, not fighting back but not backing down either. He absorbed each blow in sinlence. He could feel the anguish that was driving Jungsoo, the pain that distorted his friend's judgment.

As minutes passed by, Jungsoo began to lose steam. His punches slowed, his breaths began to come in ragged gasps and his eyes were almost overflowing with tears. Finally, with a last, weak punch, he collapsed to his knees. Tears ran down his face as he buried his head in his hands, unable to face his friend after what he had just done.

Hyukjae approached cautiously, his body ached from the blows. He knelt beside him, a hand resting gently on his shoulder. "Jungsoo," he said softly.

Jungsoo looked up, his face wet and red, unable to fully meet Hyukjae's eyes. "I... I'm sorry," he managed to choke out, his voice cracking. "I thought... I thought you..."

"I understand," he replied gently. "But I didn't do what you think I did."

Jungsoo finally stared at Hyukjae, searching for answers in his friend's eyes. In that moment, the realization dawned on him. The accusation, the rage... it all stemmed from a misunderstanding fueled by unchecked emotions.

"I... I know," Jungsoo whispered, his voice barely audible. He wiped his tears away. "I'm sorry, Hyuk. I should have trusted you."

He nodded quietly and the corners of his bloodied mouth curved upwards into a small smile despite the bruises darkening his face. "It's okay, hyung," he reassured. "Just... next time, please listen to me."

They sat there in silence for a while longer, the tension slowly dissipating. Finally, Jungsoo reached out, extending a hand to help Hyukjae up from the ground.

"We need to find Donghae," he finally spoke. "I... I need to make things right with him."

Hyukjae nodded in agreement. "Let's find him, hyung. We'll figure this out together."

Together, they set off into the night. Jungsoo led the way, and the silence between them felt oddly comfortable. They arrived at Gyeongbokgung Palace, where the older boy thought they might find Donghae. As they rounded a corner, they spotted him. His form was curled in a fetal position and his wide-ish shoulders trembled with silent sobs, his face hidden from view.

"Hyung," Hyukjae murmured softly. He gestured towards the younger boy.

Jungsoo nodded. Together, they approached him carefully, mindful not to startle him. His head lifted slightly at the sound of the approaching footsteps, revealing the boy's tear-streaked face. His eyes met Jungsoo's, and for a moment, they remained in silence, staring at each other.

"I'm sorry," Jungsoo began. "I... I didn't mean to..."

Donghae's breath caught in his throat as he struggled to find the words to say. "Jungsoo Hyung... I understand... I just..."

Hyukjae stepped forward. "Let's all talk and listen to each other," he said. Donghae blinked, startled by the bruises and swelling on his face, he hadn't witnessed how badly he'd been hurt.

In the stillness of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Donghae finally faced his brother, Jungsoo, under the dim glow of a single flashlight.

"Hyung," Donghae began. "I'm not a kid anymore. Hwaseong City has seen me grow into a man."

Realization dawned on Jungsoo as he listened intently to his brother's words. He had always seen him as the little one, the one to protect and guide. Now, confronted with Donghae's assertion of adulthood, Jungsoo felt a pang of guilt for having underestimated him. As he looked at him, he noticed how much taller he had gotten. His frame was now wider, his stance, steadier, his gaze was no longer uncertain. Suddenly, he was struck by how much Donghae had grown since first arriving in the city. He looked like a man now.

"I had chances to leave, when i turned 18" he continued. "To go to Erehwon, or even escape to another of the islands. But I chose to stay here, with you."

Jungsoo felt a lump form in his throat.

"I'm sorry," he finally spoke. "I really thought I was protecting you."

Donghae shook his head gently, a small smile playing on his thin lips despite the tears glistening in his eyes.

"I know, " he replied softly. "But even if I'm your younger brother, sometimes, you have to trust me to make my own choices."

"You know.. " he continued after a while, his voice steadier, "even if I've developed feelings for Hyukjae, you will always be my brother. The best older brother."

Jungsoo blinked, processing his brother's admission. He saw him clearly now: a strong, capable young man, unafraid to confront his own emotions.

"I..." Jungsoo started, struggling to find the right words. "I never realized..."

The younger boy smiled softly. "It's okay," he reassured, stepping closer to him. "You've always looked out for me, and that means everything."

"I'm grateful for both of you," Hyukjae, who had been quietly observing, interjected. "For your trust, your honesty, and your friendship."

Jungsoo nodded. "Thank you, Hyuk" he said sincerely, meeting his friend's gaze with newfound respect. "And... I'm sorry for not understanding sooner."

He just shook his head, grinning. "There's no need to apologize," he replied. "We're family, after all, and families sometimes fight. We talked it through, though, and that's good."

The three boys found themselves drawn to a secluded corner of the Palace's expansive grounds. Away from the gravel pathways and stone walls, they discovered a patch of grass sprouting between the dried soil. They settled onto the soft grass. Donghae gazed up at the stars with wonder.

"It's beautiful tonight," he murmured.

"Yeah," Jungsoo replied softly. "I've never seen the stars so clearly in the city before. The smog usually covers everything-"

"I never thought we'd end up here," Donghae admitted after a while, breaking the silence. "Together, under the stars."

His brother smiled faintly, his eyes crinkling at the corners with fondness. "Me neither," he replied honestly. "But I'm glad we did."

"Also, hyung..." he continued , his tone calm yet tinged with emotion, "there's something else. I care deeply for Hyukjae. I want to be with him."

Jungsoo listened carefully. He felt a surge of conflicting emotions: pride in Donghae's growth, protective instincts as an older brother, and maybe... acceptance of their evolving relationship.

After a moment's pause, the younger boy ventured tentatively, "I hope you can accept us."

His gaze softened as he met his brother's earnest gaze. He no longer was the young boy he once knew, but a man capable of making his own choices and following his heart.

"I do," Jungsoo replied quietly. "You have my blessing, Donghae. I trust you to know what's best for yourself". He let out a breath, then added with a wry smile, "And honestly, if it had to be someone... I'm glad it's this guy. At least I know him, and I know he's decent, even if he looks like hell right now."

Relief washed over Donghae, and he reached out to clasp his brother's hand. "Thank you, Jungsoo," he murmured gratefully. "I promise, we'll make this work."

As the first rays of dawn began to seep through between the tall buildings of Hwaseong, the three young men made their way back through the city streets towards the apartment. Jungsoo walked a few steps behind Hyukjae and Donghae, observing them. He noticed how effortlessly their fingers intertwined. Their faces reflected a happiness that he couldn't deny them, nor did he want to.

Donghae glanced back at him with a small smile, silently conveying his gratitude.

Hyukjae, sensing Jungsoo's gaze, also turned to him. "Everything okay, Hyung?" he asked.

Jungsoo nodded slowly. "Yeah, everything's good." He couldn't help but smile as he met his friend's gaze.

He had realized that his role as an older brother had evolved. Now, it was about supporting him in pursuing his own happiness, not about protecting Donghae from every perceived threat. The only way to find peace was by embracing the happiness of those he held dear, so, with a renewed sense of purpose, he joined the other two and they exchanged smiles and laughter.

Chapter Text

Jungsoo, Hyukjae, and Donghae gathered in the small apartment. The once strained relationships had healed over time, and tonight was about celebrating Donghae’s latest achievement.

“We need to do something special,” Jungsoo declared. “Donghae’s finished high school, and we’ve been through a lot. This calls for a real celebration.”

Donghae looked at his older brother with gratitude. “Thanks, hyung. I wouldn’t have made it without you.”

Hyukjae, always the playful one, ruffled Donghae’s hair. “You did all the hard work, kid. We just cheered you on. But yeah, let’s make tonight unforgettable.”

Hyukjae had prepared a special meal, he had used his savings to buy ingredients for Donghae’s favorite dishes. Japchae, bulgogi, and kimchi made for the celebratory banquet. Jungsoo had even managed to get a small cake to mark the occasion.

As they sat down to eat, Donghae looked around at the people who had become his family. The struggles they faced had only made their bond stronger. They laughed, shared stories, and enjoyed the food, the tension of the past months long gone .

“To Donghae’s future,” Jungsoo said, raising a glass of soda. “May it be bright and filled with happiness.”

“To our future,” Donghae corrected, raising his own glass. “We’ve been through so much together. Here’s to many more adventures.”

“To our future,” Hyukjae echoed, clinking glasses with his brothers.

Jungsoo had been planning this for months. Saving every extra bit of money he could, he had managed to rent a cabin by the beach. He wanted to give Donghae a surprise he would never forget.  On the morning of their planned celebration, he woke up early and packed their bags quietly. When Hyukjae and Donghae finally awoke, he was already bustling around, barely able to contain his excitement.

"Come on, you two. We have a train to catch," Jungsoo announced, ushering them out of the apartment.

Hyukjae raised an eyebrow. "A train? Where are we going?"

"You'll see," Jungsoo said with a wink.

Donghae, intrigued and a little confused, followed along. They arrived at the train station, and Jungsoo handed them their tickets. As they boarded the train, Donghae couldn't help but ask, "Where are we going, Jungsoo hyung?"

Jungsoo just smiled. "It's a surprise. You'll find out soon enough."

Outside the train window, the city disappeared in layers. Tower blocks gave way to squat warehouses, then to empty lots and stretches of concrete. Concrete gave way to dirt roads and sparse shrubs clung to life along the railroad as the buildings grew fewer. The gray city haze thinned, revealing wide, windswept plains. As they traveled further, the landscape began to change, becoming more open, a seemingly endless extension of sandy dunes, scattered with sparse yellowish grass, rusted fencing and the remnants of old machines. 

When they finally arrived at their stop, Donghae's eyes widened as he saw the ocean stretching out before them. "We're at the beach!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with awe.

Jungsoo grinned. "We're staying in a cabin right by the water. I wanted to give you a special celebration for finishing school."

Donghae was speechless. The sight of the beach was more beautiful than anything he had imagined. "Thank you, Jungsoo," he finally managed to say.

Hyukjae clapped Donghae on the back. "This is amazing, Jungsoo. You really outdid yourself."

Donghae was the first to step out of the cabin. The vast expanse of the ocean stretched out before him, the sunlight glittered on the surface of the water like a thousand tiny diamonds. The salty sea breeze ruffled his hair, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore filled his ears. He stood there, speechless, taking in the breathtaking sight. It was his first time seeing the beach, and it was more beautiful than in any movie he had watched.

Unable to contain his excitement, Donghae turned to Jungsoo and Hyukjae. "This is amazing!" he exclaimed. Without another word, he kicked off his shoes and ran towards the water, laughing like a child.

The older boys watched with fond smiles as Donghae raced across the sand, his bare feet sinking into the soft grains. Donghae's laughter resonated along the shoreline as he reached the water's edge and felt the cool waves crash against his toes. He let out a squeal of pure delight.

He splashed into the waves, letting the cold water invigorate him, and spread his arms wide, letting the sea envelop him. The feeling was exhilarating, the freedom and the beauty of the ocean overwhelmed him in the best possible way. He turned back to his brother and Hyukjae and waved at them with a big grin.

"Come on! The water's perfect!" he shouted.

They joined him, and soon, their laughter mingled with Donghae's as they played in the shore. They splashed each other, chased the retreating waves, and dove into the water together.

Feeling a surge of playful energy, he grabbed Hyukjae's hand and pulled him closer.

"Come on, let's see if you can catch me!" Donghae shouted, sprinting towards the waves.

Hyukjae laughed and gave chase. They playfully wrestled, trying to dunk each other into the water.  Jungsoo watched from the shore, unable to contain a wild smil. The joy and laughter of his younger brother and Hyukjae were contagious. He couldn't resist joining in the fun. Running towards them, he leapt into the waves, sending a huge splash in every direction.

"Hey, that's not fair!" Donghae laughed, trying to splash Jungsoo back.

"Oh, it's on now," Jungsoo said, grinning widely.

The three boys engaged in a water fight. They chased each other, tackled each other into the waves, and splashed around without care. The worries and stresses of their lives in Hwaseong melted away in the face of this pure, unadulterated joy.

At one point, Hyukjae managed to scoop Donghae up and twirl him around, both of them laughing so hard they could barely stand. Jungsoo, not wanting to be left out, splashed them both until they were all soaked and breathless from laughing.

After a while, they floated on their backs, letting the gentle waves carry them. Unlike in Hwaseong, where it was always gray, the sky above was a brilliant blue, and the sun warmed their faces.

"This is amazing," Donghae said, looking up at the sky. "I don't think I've ever had this much fun."

Hyukjae nodded. "We should do this more often."

Jungsoo, floating nearby, turned his head to look at them. "I'm glad we could do this. We all needed it."

They eventually made their way back to the shore, collapsing onto the warm sand. They lay there, catching their breath and enjoying the peaceful sounds of the ocean.

As they relaxed, Donghae looked over at Jungsoo and Hyukjae. "Thank you," he said softly. "For everything. I feel like I really belong here, with you guys."

Jungsoo reached over and squeezed Donghae's hand. "You're our family, Donghae. We wouldn't have it any other way."

Hyukjae nodded in agreement. "Yeah, kiddo. We're in this together."

As they lay on the beach, Jungsoo's eyes wandered over to the other two. He saw how tenderly Hyukjae pecked Donghae's lips, his eyes full of love and affection. A wave of emotion washed over Jungsoo as he watched them. He remembered the scared kid who had first come to Hwaseong, wide-eyed and uncertain, struggling to find his place in such a different environment. It seemed like only yesterday that Donghae had arrived, timid and hesitant, trying to navigate the complexities of his new life. He had worried endlessly about him, fearing that the harshness of the city would crush his spirit.

But now, as he looked at Donghae, he saw a confident young man, someone who had grown and matured in ways he would have never imagined. Donghae's laughter was genuine, his smiles brighter, and his eyes shone with a happiness that warmed Jungsoo's heart. It wasn't just the city that had shaped him; it was the relationships he'd formed, the experiences he'd had, and the love he'd found.

And then there was Hyukjae. Jungsoo had initially been wary of him, protective of his younger brother. But Hyukjae had proven himself time after time to be someone worthy of Donghae's trust and affection. He had stood by Donghae through thick and thin, supporting him, encouraging him, and most importantly, loving him unconditionally. Watching them together now, Jungsoo felt a deep sense of gratitude towards his friend.

In that moment, he realized that his fears and worries had been unfounded. His brother had found his place, and seeing the tenderness between Donghae and Hyukjae, Jungsoo knew that he was in good hands. He smiled to himself, feeling a profound sense of peace and happiness. The journey had been tough, and there had been moments of doubt and struggle, but it had all led to this beautiful moment on the beach. Donghae had become the person he was meant to be, and he had found someone as good as Hyukjae to share his life with.

Hyukjae turned to Donghae with a teasing grin. "You having fun, baby?" he asked.

Donghae rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "Baby? Really? That's even worse than kiddo," he retorted, trying to sound annoyed but failing miserably.

Hyukjae chuckled, ruffling Donghae's damp hair. "Oh, come on. You love it," he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Donghae pretended to groan. "Yeah, yeah. Just don't start calling me that in front of everyone else".

Jungsoo, who had been listening with a fond smile, shook his head. "You two are the worst," he said, his voice tinged with amusement. He felt a pang of jealousy but also a deep sense of relief. 

Hyukjae chuckled and nodded in agreement, then he turned to Donghae. "Yeah baby, or kiddo, you're stuck with us," he said. His tone was light but his words carried a deeper meaning.

As night fell over the beach, the three boys settled into the cabin. Jungsoo and Hyukjae had decided to treat Donghae to his first alcoholic drink now that he was of age. They had prepared a sweet cocktail, carefully mixing it to ensure it wasn't too strong.

"Here you go, Donghae," Jungsoo said, handing him the glass with a smile. "Your first drink as an adult."

Hyukjae raised his own glass, grinning. "To my baby Ddohae!"

Donghae blushed, feeling excitement and nervousness as he took his first sip. The taste was strange but pleasant, and he quickly got used to it. As they continued to chat and laugh, Donghae began to feel the effects of the alcohol. After a few more sips, he leaned back in his chair, a content smile on his face. He looked at his older brother and Hyukjae. "You know," he began, a bit tipsy but sincere, "when I blew out the candles on my birthday, I made a wish."

Jungsoo and Hyukjae exchanged curious glances, leaning in to listen. "What did you wish for?" Hyukjae asked.

Donghae's smile widened. "I wished for my older brother to be by my side forever. I wanted us to always be together, no matter what."

Both older boys were awestruck by Donghae's confession. Jungsoo felt a lump form in his throat, he reached out and took his brother's hand, squeezing it gently. "Donghae... that's the best wish I've ever heard."

Hyukjae nodded, his expression equally touched. "We're not going anywhere, baby. We'll always be here for you."

Tears of happiness pooled in the corners of Donghae's eyes, and he laughed softly, wiping them away. "I know. And I'm so grateful for that. You two mean the world to me."

They sat like that for a while, three silhouettes lit by the golden glow of a string of fairy lights. Years from now, Donghae wouldn’t remember the exact taste of the drink or the name of the song playing in the background. But he’d remember this: the sound of his brother’s voice, Hyukjae’s hand clapping his back, the feeling that, for once, nothing was missing.