Chapter Text
"If the eldest son becomes a father to a boy, his younger brothers must marry a male in order to prevent disputes over family succession." His mother's words echo through Hyunwoo's mind as if it's something that he's never heard before, but the truth of the matter is, he's been hearing about it ever since he was a child. The Son family is strong on traditions, and this is one that they've upheld for generations. According to his great-grandmother, complications always arise when there are two heirs apparent waiting to inherit the Son conglomerate, thus said tradition was born.
Hyunwoo has no problems with it, really, or at least he thought he didn't. But the truth of the matter is it's an arranged marriage, and he has no idea who his mother has chosen. The candidate pool is usually small, sons of employees who are or were loyal to the Son family. He's friends with some of them - those who were not intimidated by his family's power or wealth – and he’s really not looking forward to marrying anyone that has known him since he was in his diapers. That's right, Hyunwoo has no problem with the fact that he has to marry a guy - he's been with a couple throughout his whole dating career, and it is a family tradition after all - his problem is whether or not he's about to marry a friend.
It was just this morning that Hyunwoo received the news, his brother announcing it with an apologetic smile on his face, "We just got back from Eunji's check-up and it's official! We're having a boy!"
Hyunwoo just stared back at him in complete disbelief. He wanted to congratulate his brother, he really did, but it felt like there was a lump in his throat preventing him from uttering a single word. "H-Hyung... congr-"
"Congratulations you two," their mother chimed in - as dignified and serene as ever. "Hyunwoo, you know exactly what this means, right? Your father and I will be looking through the candidates as soon as possible."
"Don't worry Hyunwoo-ya, I'll make sure to pick a good husband for you," his father added in a gleeful tone.
Now, he's sitting at his neighborhood cafe, waiting for the friends that he'd summoned through the group chat. If he's getting married soon, he wants to be the one to break the news to his friends, not some shitty tabloid waiting to get the latest scoop in the lives of the elites. Specifically, he's waiting for Jooheon and Minhyuk, his best friends since middle school. For some reason, Hyunwoo seems to be a magnet for energetic, lively people, because that's exactly how you'll describe the two. He met them both as members of the dance team, and both are actually younger than him - Jooheon being the youngest of the three of them, but they're the ones Hyunwoo found to be the most interesting and easy to get along with.
As Hyunwoo fiddles with his iced americano's straw, he hears the door chime and two frantic footsteps heading towards his direction, ah....here they come. Hyunwoo closes his eyes, preparing himself for the flurry of questions that he's sure to receive in the next five minutes. Eyes still closed, he hears the clattering of chairs as his friends try to position themselves in front of Hyunwoo. This made him let out a small chuckle, it feels like his friends are more worried about this than he is.
He opens his eyes, two expectant faces in front of him, "How about you guys order first?" Hyunwoo says, amusement clear in his voice.
"Right...right," Minhyuk's still wide-eyed but he somehow manages to order a mocha frappe for him and an iced americano for Jooheon, because the group's baby is still in shock, unable to process what Hyunwoo told them through the group chat.
"Hyung, is it true? You're getting married? Hyung, when's the wedding? Who are you marrying? Are you gonna move somewhere else once you get married?" Jooheon has always had a knack for rapping.
"One at a time, Jooheonie." Hyunwoo laughs, pressing a hand against Jooheon's mouth.
"But hyung, you seem to be so relaxed about this," Minhyuk speaks in between taking the server and receiving the drinks, "it's the twenty-first century, do you still need to follow these rules?"
"I'm born from old money, Minhyuk-ah, it's not that easy to break tradition."
"I guess rich people don't have it easy, huh"
"Dummy, do I need to remind you that you guys are rich, too," Hyunwoo said in a playful tone.
"True, true, but..." Minhyuk pauses to take a sip from his drink, "we're not old money, and we don't have weird traditions like what you have."
He was about to deliver a quick rebuttal when his phone rings, his mother's caller ID displayed on the screen. "Sorry guys, it's my mother."
Minhyuk and Jooheon's eyes are back to being as wide as saucers, anticipating every word that falls and will fall from Hyunwoo's mouth. They may not hear what the other line is saying, but the two are hoping that they can piece it together with their genius, and context skills. They also don't realize it, but they are definitely leaning one side of their bodies closer to Hyunwoo, to make snooping easier.
"Hello, Mother." Hyunwoo used to call her mom, but as he learned through his etiquette training growing up, 'mom' and 'dad' are endearments that should be left behind in his childhood. This doesn't mean that he's not close to his parents, that's far from the truth. Hyunwoo loves his parents very much, that's partly the reason why he's even going through with this arrangement. "Do you need me at home?" Hyunwoo gulps, his heart hoping that his mother's just checking up on him.
"No need to, Hyunwoo. I'm just calling to let you know that we've chosen a partner for you. He will be here on Saturday, so do make sure that you visit the house looking prim and proper. And please don't be late, we don't want your future husband getting a bad first impression of you," his mother's voice was soft, her words said in an almost sing-song voice. It's another reason why he can't seem to deny any of his mother's requests.
"Yes Mother, of course. I'm looking forward to it." He's not lying, he is looking forward to this meeting, curious to see who his parents have chosen for him. He's very curious who his parents think is compatible with him. "Is there anything else?"
"I believe that's everything I need to tell you." Hyunwoo was about to say his goodbyes when he was cut off, "Do take care of yourself Hyunwoo-ya. I love you, son."
Hyunwoo's mouth forms a smile, "I will. I love you too, and I'll see you on Saturday."
After the phone call, two eager ears were waiting for the story. They look like two kids ready to receive a reward for staying still and keeping quiet. But soon enough, Minhyuk bursts into questions, "Hyung! Hyung! What did auntie say!? Did they find a husband for you!? What's his name!? Do you know him!? Can we meet him!?" Minhyuk's questions seemed more like exclamations, amusing Hyunwoo to the fullest.
"To answer your shouts: One, Mother just informed me that they have found a partner for me. Two, I forgot to ask mother for their name. Three, I can't be sure whether I know them or not just yet. Three, you can't meet him yet because I'm meeting him for the first time on Saturday," Hyunwoo sipped his iced americano, finishing it off. "Any more questions?"
"Hyung," Jooheon interrupts Minhyuk before the other could even get a word in, "make sure to give us updates, okay? Let us know what's going on, or if you need any help at all."
"Heonnie, I appreciate your concern, but I'm getting married not dying in 3 days." Hyunwoo lets out a hearty laugh.
"I know, but-" It was Minhyuk's turn to interrupt Jooheon.
"Since our hyung's days as a bachelor is coming to an end, we should celebrate and have fun to our heart's content! Am I right, Heonnie?" Minhyuk proclaims to the whole cafe, pinching Jooheon's cheeks at the same time.
"Can said celebration just be us with beer and fried chicken, playing card games and video games in my apartment?"
"Of course, hyung! It's your death as a bachelor that approaches, so we will grant any wish of yours now."
Saturday arrived faster than Hyunwoo had expected. He opened his eyes to sunlight filtering through his bedroom windows, warmth caressing his body. He lets out a sigh, "Wake up, Son Hyunwoo! Today's the day!"
It would be a lie if he said that he's not even just a bit curious. After all, this is something that will affect his whole life. If Hyunwoo's being honest, he didn't expect this to happen as soon as it is, but he's learned to just go with the flow of things. That's his secret of how he's lived a peaceful life, going with the flow. It doesn't mean that he's a push-over, it just means that it's easier for him to forgive and forget, making friends became easier, too. Dragging himself out of the bed, Hyunwoo heads straight to the bathroom for a much-needed shave and a quick shower.
After double-checking for any stubble, Hyunwoo slaps on some moisturizer on his face - it's the only thing that he uses from the basketful of skincare products Minhyuk gifted him for his birthday - now it's all neatly lined up on his bathroom shelf, most of them untouched. Now the only problem left: what is he going to wear? Hyunwoo runs to his bed and grabs his phone, he scrolls through his favorites and presses Minhyuk's name.
"Hyuuuuuuung," Minhyuk answers, the fact that he just woke up apparent in his voice.
"Minhyuk-ah, did I disturb your sleep?" Hyunwoo finds it very amusing.
"Yes. Absolutely. I need my beauty rest, hyung," Minhyuk's starting to sound more and more irritated.
"Minhyukkie," Hyunwoo coos, "I need help with what to wear."
"Black turtleneck the one Versace sent you, black pants, long coat. The tan one Jooheonie gave you for Christmas, you know the Armani one." Minhyuk said in quick succession and Hyunwoo makes a mental note to check if he still has that turtleneck.
Hyunwoo hates to admit it, but he's become somewhat of a socialite as soon as he entered adulthood. When Jooheon and Minhyuk invite him out to go to clubs, there are often paparazzi waiting for them. That's also when clothing brands started contacting him and sending him clothes to wear. Hyunwoo is tall, with a toned physique, and a part of the Son Family, making him the favorite of some fashion houses. They send him clothes to wear, Minhyuk takes photos for him, and he reluctantly posts it on social media. He became what men seek to look like, and what women want their boyfriends to look like.
"Hyung? You still there?" Minhyuk asks after three minutes of silence.
"Mmm." Hyunwoo hums while he rummages through his closet, silently cursing himself for only wearing black and white. It makes looking for a black turtleneck almost impossible. "Sorry Minhyukkie, I'm gonna hang up now. Thanks for the fashion advice."
"Alright. Make sure to keep us updated, hyung! Or do you want me to come with you?" Minhyuk is obviously teasing now.
"Stupid. Do you think my mother will like that?"
The younger lets out a laugh, "You're right hyung, I don't want auntie's death glare on me. Okay, I'm hanging up now."
Before leaving the house, Hyunwoo put a dollop of mousse on his hand and ran it through his hair. He's not really good at styling his hair, but he manages. He puts on his coat and grabs his car keys. It's a thirty-minute drive to the main house, thirty minutes until Hyunwoo meets his forever.
His whole body is on edge, every step towards the door feels heavy. Hyunwoo thought he was ready, but the realization is slowly permeating through his body. The family's caretaker greets him, grabbing his coat and putting it away for him. The caretaker also informs Hyunwoo that the guest arrived fifteen minutes earlier than expected and he's waiting in the study, accompanied by Hyunwoo's parents.
Hyunwoo's heart is pounding against his chest now as if it wants to escape. His feet feel the same - like it wants to run in the opposite direction. He feels goosebumps running all throughout his body, his thoughts running wild. What if he thinks I'm ugly? Or that I'm too awkward? Oh god, what if we have nothing to talk about. What if we have nothing in common. And before Hyunwoo knows it, he's in the living room. And nothing could've prepared him for what's in front of him.
He has silky black hair, a perfect contrast against his milky white skin. He also noticed how the man's suit hugs him in all the right places. Now Hyunwoo feels underdressed. When he saw Hyunwoo standing in the doorway, he let out the most beautiful smile, so contagious Hyunwoo doesn't realize that he's smiling back. The man stands up and greets Hyunwoo with a bow, "It's nice to meet you. My name is Shin Hoseok."
"Uh...ah..." Hyunwoo struggles to form words.
"Hyunwoo, where are your manners? Greet our guest properly." His mother interjected, worry visible in her eyes.
Hyunwoo returns the bow, "It's a pleasure to meet you as well. I'm Son Hyunwoo, of the Son family." What a stupid thing to say, he wants to backflip out of this conversation.
But then he hears a small snicker, "I know you very well, Mr. Son Hyunwoo."
"Well," Hyunwoo's father adds, "it seems like you two have a lot to talk about so Hyunwoo, your mother and I will be taking our leave."
It's most definitely awkward. Hyunwoo positioned himself in the sofa next to Hoseok, giving the other glances for what seemed like every two minutes. Hyunwoo estimates that they've been sitting in silence for about ten minutes until they hear a knock on the door. A maid brings in tea alongside some pastries, Hyunwoo knows that it's under his mother's instructions. They simultaneously thanked the maid, and Hoseok took this opportunity to start a conversation.
"So, what do you think?" Hoseok tilts his head.
"I'm sorry?" Hyunwoo clarifies while drinking tea, his eyebrows farming arches.
"What do you think of your future husband?"
"Ah. Uh... I think you're really beautiful."
A big laugh escapes Hoseok, "What the hell is that! This is the first time someone's called me beautiful."
"Seriously?"
"Yeah, seriously."
"But when I saw you, the first thing that came to mind was 'ah what is he thinking agreeing to marry someone like me'."
Hoseok lets out another laugh, "Someone like you? I think you're pretty cool though."
"Thank you," Hyunwoo says, feeling flustered. He's enjoying his time with Hoseok, and he wants it to continue. It just feels like he's making a new friend, instead of getting to know his future husband. Think, Hyunwoo, think! What can you talk with Hoseok about? Lightbulb.
"So!" Hyunwoo realizes that he might have been too loud when he sees Hoseok yelp while drinking his tea. "What do you do? As a job, I mean."
Hoseok puts down his teacup, positioning himself so that he's making eye contact with Hyunwoo, "I'm a kindergarten teacher. Honestly, my mother wanted me to go into business, you know, work for the Son conglomerate like her, and my father, and my brother. But my passion really is with teaching kids."
"Then, how did you end up here?" Hyunwoo's full of curiosity once again.
"You make it sound like it's such a bad thing," Hoseok gives him a curious look, "Did you know that I've been training for this since I was a kid? My family's so loyal to the Son Family they didn't even question it. Well, it's not like I have a problem with it either. I found out at a very young age that I have no interest in women. That's why I'm so thankful that I have a brother, he'll be able to continue the Shin name."
"By training... What do you mean by training?"
"Hm?" Hoseok hums, licking his thumb after eating a danish. "Well, my mom taught me how to cook - don't expect much from it though, do the laundry, all kinds of household chores. She told me that I may be the "future wife of a Son". How old-fashioned is that? Calling me a wife?" He shakes his head while chuckling.
"I'm sorry. You had no choice because of me." Hyunwoo mumbles, lowering his head.
"Hey! Don't worry about it! Besides, it's not just me. What about you? How do you feel about this?"
"It's a family tradition."
"Right. Then we feel the same way. For the family."
Hyunwoo nods, he notes that they at least have something in common. If anything, this arrangement may have gained him a new friend. Hoseok seems like the type to get along with everyone. His laughter and his smile are both contagious, and something about him brings the protectiveness out of Hyunwoo. Hoseok is by no means fragile. Hell, Hyunwoo thinks that the other is more muscular than him. But he exudes this aura that he wants to be spoiled. Maybe it's his porcelain skin, making him look like he's never been touched by the sun. Maybe it's the way that he looks at Hyunwoo, his eyes always just a little watery, making them sparkle. Hyunwoo's thoughts were interrupted by a knock once again.
Hyunwoo's father enters the room, with his mother following right behind. They situate themselves on the loveseat right in front of Hoseok and Hyunwoo, nodding at each other. His father starts speaking, "We have discussed it with Hoseok's parents, and we think that living together would be good for the two of you."
"I'm sorry?!" Hyunwoo's thankful to past him for not drinking tea at that moment.
"Hyunwoo, think about it. Since you will be married anyway, isn't it better to get to know each other?"
"But... I mean... Isn't it okay to just go out on dates?" Hoseok's looking at him now, a flush crawling up from his neck.
"H-Hyunwoo is right, Mr. Son. I don't t-think living together now will be necessary." Hoseok stutters a bit.
Mr. Son grins, placing his hand on top of his wife's, "Hoseok, please. No need for formalities, you will be a part of the Son family. Just call us mother and father."
"Y-yes, father..."
"But father," Hyunwoo adds in an objecting tone, "why are we rushing this marriage? Can't we just be engaged? And then get married two, three years from now?"
"Hyunwoo-ya, you're already twenty-six years old. I think it's about time for you to start settling down." His father, reprimands. "Anyways, if you guys don't have any other questions, we'll be taking our leave once again. Oh, and Hyunwoo make sure to help Hoseok with the move to your apartment, okay?"
"Yes, father," was the only thing Hyunwoo could say.
His parents left the room once they heard his agreement, but all Hyunwoo could feel now is how apologetic he is towards Hoseok. Hyunwoo is sure that this will be a huge problem for Hoseok's everyday life. His routine will be all messed up just because of their parents' whims. He scoots closer to Hoseok, holding the other's hand, "I am so sorry about this. I knew they could be fickle but I didn't know that they wouldn't even take your life into consideration."
Hoseok shakes his head, "Hey, don't worry about it. I know what I'm getting into. Besides its not too much trouble, the kindergarten is an easy commute."
Hyunwoo tightens his hands around Hoseok's, "No, don't worry about the commute. I'll... I'll drive you to work, and I'll pick you up from work. The reason why you're having all of these problems is because of me, so I'll definitely make it up to you."
Hoseok tries to fight back a smile, he can't help but find Hyunwoo adorable, "Well, if you insist."
Hyunwoo nods, tight-lipped, eagerness visible in his eyes. "Anyways, give me your phone number, it'll make the moving in arrangements easier."
Today has drained all the life out of Hyunwoo. On one hand, he met Hoseok - whom he genuinely thinks is one cool guy, on the other hand, he's suddenly thrust into the married life without even getting married. He finishes parking his car in the garage and makes her way to the bedroom. He plops down to his soft, familiar bed, not even bothering with taking off his coat. He quickly checks his phone and sees the hundreds of messages Minhyuk and Jooheon left in the group chat. Half of them asking for updates about "his better half" as Jooheon stated in one of the texts. Hyunwoo starts tapping away:
Need your help.
for u anything hyung
what do you need help with hyung?
With moving.
AAAAHHHHHHHH SEE I KNEW IT YOU WILL MOVE
BECAUSE YOU'RE GETTING MARIED NO HYUNG
DON'T LEAVE US
Stupid, I'm not moving out. Hoseok's moving in.
oohhhhhh is hoseok the feature mr. son???
Yeah, I guess.
but why is he moving in with u you guys
aren't even married yet
yeah, hyung what's up with that???
It was all decided by our parents
holy shit being mega super rich rly sux
are we still allowed to visit your house even when
your husband starts living with you hyung
thank u for asking the important questions heonnie
Of course, you are. Besides, I think you guys will
like Hoseok, too.
But obviously, you guys need to help us with him moving
in. He said he's gonna ask some of his co-teachers to
help out as well.
Also, he's not my husband yet.
he's a teacher????? omg he must be super smart
hyung i can't wait to meet your fiance
will food be provided if we help
Have I ever let you guys go hungry?
sounds like a deal
just tell is when it is hyung
Thanks guys, you're the best.
Hyunwoo clicks off his phone, letting it rest on his chest. He really needs to take off his clothes to relax, but he's so exhausted his body feels limp. He can't help but smile, though, memories of his conversation with Hoseok flooding his head. Hyunwoo's never been good at talking, but with Hoseok, he felt at ease. It was easy to open up. Maybe it's because of the fact that Hoseok's a teacher, and he's good at making kids come out of their shells. Yeah, that's certainly possible. Hyunwoo doesn't know what his life will be like with Hoseok, whether things will change, or it'd just be like getting a roommate. But one thing is for sure in Hyunwoo's mind, he can't wait to see Hoseok again.