Archive of Our Own

Parents of Jeonghan and Seungcheol, who have been best friends since college, arranged their marriage. The two are very close as well, having the same circle of friends, thus being in this type of situation lead other way to their already established friendship.

It was awkward at first because they had no idea their parents would set them up because this type of set up is so outdated nowadays. Both of them had no idea that their parents would act on it. They are now tied to one other for the rest of their lives.

Will Jeonghan and Seungcheol can overcome this obstacle?

Will it be worth it, or will it cause the established friendship to break apart?

Jeonghan was worn out after the recent wedding reception. Both Seungcheol and him are sitting on couches in their own home, looking exhausted. Since the day they began the planning, Jeonghan has actually felt Seungcheol distance from him, but that changes when either of their parents are there. As a result, Jeonghan has been cautious ever since.

Seungcheol was zoning out and staring up at the ceiling when Jeonghan peered in. He hesitated to ask him if he wanted to take a shower before him, but he simply sighed and went directly to their shared room and took a shower, paying no attention to his husband.

While Jeonghan didn't even give Seungcheol a glance as they entered their house, Seungcheol was also considering striking up a conversation with his now-husband. However, he could sense the tension between them. It still feels odd for Seungcheol to refer to him as his husband and this house─ as their home.

As he got to his feet, he heard him sigh. maybe being worn out by the atmosphere around them. Seungcheol pondered. He truly wanted to grab his wrist so they could chat, but fortunately he restrained himself because he didn't know what to say anyhow.

After some time, as Seungcheol mentally calculated that Jeonghan had finished taking a shower, he entered their room after. Even this one is difficult to comprehend. Seungcheol noticed him drying his hair and changing into a more comfortable nightgown.

They didn't need to eat dinner because they had eaten almost everything on the menu during their wedding celebration.

"I'll sleep in the other room if you want this room," Seungcheol finally said since he couldn't stand the awkward silence any longer.

"No." Jeonghan halted the blower as he turned to face Seungcheol. "Moms will be here first in the morning."  Reminding him of it, Seungcheol had forgotten about it. Their mothers are both obsessed with them.

"I forgot about that, but─"

"We used to sleep in the same bed, Cheol; what's the problem now?"

Seungcheol was taken aback; how did he know he was thinking about it? But to respond that which he is unable to say aloud. There is a problem because they are now husbands and not simply pals.

Seungcheol simply shakes his head and walks into the shower. He can't tolerate it when Jeonghan looks him in the eyes as if he's reading him, so he had to look away before he reads any more of him.

This setup is putting the heat on him.

After taking a shower, Jeonghan's sore body had begun to relax, and with the room being quiet, he knew he would be able to fall asleep quickly. But as soon as the bathroom door opened, Jeonghan opened his eyes and looked at Seungcheol's upper body. Water was flowing from Seungcheol's hair and onto his stomach, where it was absorbed by the towel around his waist. He wasn't intending to gaze for so long because he was drifting off and getting ready to fall asleep, but suddenly this man emerged from the shower with nothing but a towel around his waist.

"I might disappear if you keep staring like that," the voice startles Jeonghan, bringing him back to reality. He glances up, meeting Seungcheol's smile as he opened their walk-in closet, which didn't have a separate room so Jeonghan could see his husband change into his nightgown.

Those massive muscles that can take him anywhere or maybe throw him somewhere, he admires them but doesn't tell anyone. He had caressed them many times before and it was tough. Jeonghan imagines those arms protectively wrapped around him right now.

Jeonghan has no idea why he can't take his gaze away from Seungcheol and his muscles. He has seen him topless and in that state previously when watching him play soccer or basketball, so why does he feel heat from his cheeks now?

Does he blush? That caused Jeonghan to glance away and turn to the other side of the room, eliciting a chuckle from the other person inside the room.

Did he notice me looking at him? Jeonghan questioned himself. However, judging by the giggles, he did notice him, so why didn't he make him look away or tell him to?

Whatever. Jeonghan whispered to himself, wrapping the blanket to his body. He needed more sleep and energy to deal with their mothers tomorrow.

Seungcheol dried his hair in the other room because he knows how sensitive Jeonghan is in his sleep and, of course, he was exhausted as well. He gently went to their sharing room after drying his hair and discovered an angel happily asleep. He wanted to touch his gorgeous face to remove a few strands of hair, but he knew better. That might startle him.

But Seungcheol let his intruding thought to triumph, and his hand began to move to do what he desired, but he was surprised because the other only hummed in content, and what shocked Seungcheol even more was when Jeonghan held his hand.

"Mmm, night," the younger replied, allowing Seungcheol to place his hand on his face.

When Seungcheol regained consciousness, he removed his hands, but Jeonghan whimpered and pulled him, forcing him to lie down.

The hand that, after touching the other's lovely face, moved to his waist, which the younger guided. So, Seungcheol doesn't have time to complain when the other tightly clutches his arm.

Seungcheol smiles; if Jeonghan wasn't sleepy, he wouldn't do that and might even shove his hand away. So, Seungcheol is enjoying himself. He had originally intended to do it.

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

Jeonghan heard a few clicks and the faint voices of two elderly ladies. He was ready to move when a pair of hands drew him closer to what he assumes is a chest, and he snuggles in closer because the scent had just lulled him to sleep.

But then he heard a silent squeak right near him, so he opened his eyes and jumped up, causing the man beside him to jolt up as well, but not completely.

"Hannie," Seungcheol sat up as well, unaware of their mothers as he rested his head on Jeonghan's shoulder. "I don't want to get up just yet."

Jeonghan simply allowed Seungcheol because both of their mothers were present. He merely looked at him and patted his head.

"So, this is how they are," Seungcheol spotted their mothers.

"Mom!"

Sejeong, Jeonghan's mother, remarked, "Good morning, my two lovely boys."

"And now a grown-up man," Jihyeon, Seungcheol's mother, added.

The two males just smiled and were ready to get up when they were stopped by the two ladies.

"Wait, here. We'll get the breakfast," Jeonghan's mother remarked as he winked at his son, and Seungcheol's mother followed with a thumbs up.

Jeonghan face palmed for the actions of his mother and mother-in-law. Did they thought of that? They are truly and completely captivated with them, and they don't want to admit it to their parents, but their blood is boiling.

"Great, at least I can sleep more," Seungcheol murmured before falling back asleep.

Jeonghan stares at him in disbelief as he gets ready for their breakfast. Because their mothers are around, they must be romantic. So, despite much struggle, he manages to pull Seungcheol up into a sitting position, earning a frown from the other.

"Remember our moms are here, don't be a jerk. Get up," Jeonghan urged, still holding Seungcheol, stopping him from lying down again, but Seungcheol being himself, drew Jeonghan to him and had him sit on his lap, about to say something when their room door opened.

"Oh! Sorry for bothering you two, but we need to eat breakfast," Jihyeon remarked.

"Aww, can't get enough of each other, huh?" added Sejeong.

While Jeonghan is glaring at him and blushing, Seungcheol proceeds to make him a blushing mess by kissing his cheeks as he assists him in sitting on the bed.

This man has just made matters worse. He gave our mothers a thought. Jeonghan pondered.

"Was it your plan?" Jeonghan said quietly, and Seungcheol simply nodded and continued to eat. And that enraged him to the nth degree.

Their meal continued, and their mothers continued to inquire about their opinions now that they were married, as well as how the first night went. Of course, Seungcheol invents stuff, and Jeonghan can't just argue with him.

"Your fathers want to meet you two, so prepare quickly, and we'll meet you in the office," Jihyeon explained as he cleaned her dish and prepared to depart.

"Okay, mom, see you in the office," Seungcheol said, leading her mother out of the room, followed by Jeonghan and his mother.

"We'll see you in the office, mom," Jeonghan remarked, walking beside Seungcheol as their mother waved them off.

While they wave goodbye, their mothers couldn't stop staring at them with enormous smiles on their faces, as can the two (with fake smiles). As he did so, Seungcheol placed his hand on Jeonghan's waist.

As soon as the car leaves their house gate. Jeonghan pushed Seungcheol and went straight to their room upstairs to get ready himself.

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

"How was life now that you're married?" Joshua laughed.

"You went to the ceremony last month; did Seokmin fuck up your brain that's why it's not working properly?" Jeonghan retorted, clearly upset.

Seokmin and Joshua just returned from an extended honeymoon in Bali to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary, and Jeonghan, a very nice friend, paid them a visit as soon as they arrived.

"Shut up!" Joshua yelled, and with that, he stopped laughing. Jeonghan knew how to silence him. "By the way, how are you two adjusting?" his tone had changed to a concerned friend.

"It was difficult to deal with him before and mostly now," Jeonghan replied. They both know Seungcheol and how he is: "He always irritates me, it's his daily agenda."

But Joshua knows better; he's not their friend for nothing. He notices how Jeonghan talks about Seungcheol and his everyday bothersome agenda, and he can't help but see his blushes, which he tries to disguise with his annoyed voice.

"I know that look, Shua, and it's not what you think it is." But Jeonghan knew him as well, yet Joshua knew something Jeonghan didn't. So Joshua simply shrugged.

"What is it, love? Are you teasing Hannie again?" Seokmin barged in, since these two are staring at one other and scheming their deaths, as they always do.

"Yes, he is, and can you two stop being lovey-dovey in front of my face?" Jeonghan stands up and walks to the kitchen, leaving the two couples performing something that most of us have seen before.

"Call Cheol so you can have someone to be lovey-dovey with," Joshua exclaimed.

Jeonghan regrets being here now; he believed he could get away from being irritated in just a day, but with these two, it's impossible, something Jeonghan didn't realized beforehand. But he also believes it is preferable to being bothered by his husband's agenda.

"Don't you have work, hyung?" Seokmin inquires, following Jeonghan into their kitchen. It's 10 a.m., and this guy has arrived.

"I wish I could take a day off from being annoyed; it makes me feel like I'm aging too quickly." Jeonghan rolled his eyes as Joshua hugs Seokmin from behind, softly rubbing his husband's tummy with evidently not so obvious teasing.

"You know, Cheol hyung called asking for you," Seokmin stated, causing Jeonghan to pause for a moment.

"You shouldn't have said so that we'll see how confused he is when his husband comes here to fetch him," Joshua slapped his husband for ruining his fun with their friend but refusing to let go of him.

"Did you say I'm here?"

"Of course he knows you're here, that's why he called us, pabo-ya," Joshua retorted dryly.

Jeonghan can really feel his aging for just one reason, and it's not healthy for him to be that way, even though he knows his face hasn't aged, but wrinkles will appear, which he despises.

Jeonghan quickly gathered his belongings and exited, but when he opened the door, Seungcheol was already waiting for him.

"You make us nervous," Seungcheol said as he approached him. "You take too much for a bathroom break.." He chuckled as he subconsciously placed his hands around his husband's waist. Greeting the other pair in the entryway.

"Don't act as if our parents are here, get your hands off of me." Jeonghan began to walk, but then remembered he didn't know where Seungcheol's car was or what it looked like; he didn't care about it, though.

"Where's your car?" He looks back and notices Seungcheol staring at him before their gazes meet. Jeonghan had no idea why he felt something on his tummy as he noticed Seungcheol checking him out.

"He's more stubborn," Joshua remarked, making Seungcheol laugh.

Their friends are all aware that they are pretending to be in love with each other for the sake of their parents.

"Yeah, and I know he said I'm more," Seungcheol says as he waves goodbye to the couple who allowed his husband stay at their home despite the fact that it meant bothering them.

He knows that if he stays there talking with the couple, Jeonghan will abandon him, even if it means walking all the way back to their workplace. That's how stubborn he is.

"How did you get here?" Seungcheol said as soon as they got inside his car.

"Perhaps something drove me here," Jeonghan cynically remarked.

Seungcheol laughs. Jeonghan responds as though that is exactly what he wants to hear. He enjoys how embarrassed his lovely face looked while blushing. He simply enjoys having a smile on his face at all times. So when he sees an opportunity, he seizes it.

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

It was the end of the month, and Jeonghan had always despised a meal with the entire family in their villa. He doesn't mind having dinner with everyone; he just doesn't enjoy the idea. It can only mean one thing: he must pretend. They must act the part.

They must act as though everything is going well. That he is not disturbed by Seungcheol's clinginess, and how he hates that the older enjoys the attention he gives.

One of Jeonghan's aunts, Soyeon, inquires, "Do you have any plans for your first anniversary?" which causing a ruckus around the table.

"Auntie, they're only in their fifth month; it's not even half," Seungkwan, Seungcheol's cousin, replied, causing the table to chuckle and agree on what was said.

Both families are close and like arguing with each other, but they must keep the formality and the choice of words.

"I'm just asking; it's better to plan ahead," she added, turning to his spouse for support, who simply nodded.

"Don't worry, auntie, we'll tell you if we have plans, right love?" Seungcheol says, smiling warmly at Jeonghan.

He's far too skilled at faking his emotions and his eyes. Jeonghan thought as he nodded absentmindedly.

But does Jeonghan realize Seungcheol isn't acting? Maybe not.

"No pressure, Cheollie," Jihyeon remarked, and the others began talking among themselves.

Jeonghan didn't know why he was exhausted all of a sudden, perhaps it was related to the enjoyable activity they had before supper, but he blamed it all on the guy sitting next to him. But his body language talks louder than he does; he had no idea he was leaning closer to Seungcheol when he put his hand around him as they watched the movie in the living room. They're all fixated on the scene.

Jeonghan leaned his head against his husband's chest. His eyelids were beginning to close, but he couldn't fall asleep with the noises, and he couldn't just tell them to stop the movie and go home so he could rest. He's not that evil. Instead, he relaxes his body to the guy next to him, his mind forgetting that he was blaming this man for his tiredness.

"It'll be over soon and we'll be able to go upstairs," Seungcheol said quietly as the other only hummed, knowing Jeonghan's demeanor. After being under one roof with him, he takes notes on everything he notices that he didn't notice previously while they were still friends.

An exhausted Jeonghan is clingy, and Seungcheol will always make an effort to be his comfort whenever possible, such as now. He can tell his husband is fatigued since Jeonghan treats him like a huge cushion. It's a good thing they're the only ones on the couch.

Chatting began as the credits echoed around the room. Everyone is expressing their feelings regarding the film.

Seungtae, Seungcheol's father, observed the two and stated, "Son, you can both go upstairs." He continued, "We're staying here for the night."

Seungcheol simply nodded. He wasn't sure if Jeonghan heard it because he seemed so drowsy. He may become irritated later if Seungcheol forces him to wash or at least clean his teeth.

"Hannie, let's go.." He shakes him slightly, and Jeonghan flinches so much that he almost falls asleep. Great. He is quite exhausted.

"Goodnight!" everyone exclaimed as they saw the couples make their way upstairs to their rooms.

When they arrived at their room, Seungcheol realized that if he tells Jeonghan what to do first before going to bed, he will become frustrated. That was another characteristic of Jeonghan that Seungcheol noted.

Tired Jeonghan is also equally to get easily frustrated, even over minor issues.

"Just brush your teeth, Hannie; I'll walk you there and help you, and then you can sleep peacefully," Seungcheol said. It's as though he's taming Jeonghan for his tantrums.

It usually happens when they have a family gathering, and Seungcheol would be lying if he said he didn't like babying Jeonghan. He's always wanted to, if only the other person would let him. He'll always be Seungcheol's baby. Wait? What exactly did he say?

Jeonghan went straight to bed after that. He didn't even bother changing his clothes or taking off his socks. It wasn't an uncomfortable shirt and jeans, but Seungcheol won't let it go, which irritates Jeonghan even more.

"Hannie, change your clothes, too."

"You said only brushing teeth," he grumbled.

Yes, Seungcheol does have a 29-year-old son called Choi Jeonghan.

Seungcheol proceeded to give him his nightgown, but Jeonghan only sat there, looking at him with tired eyes, waiting for the other to assist him. He's sleepy, thus he's become sloppy. The elder shakes his head and assists Jeonghan in changing his clothes too. Actually, Jeonghan has grown accustomed to Seungcheol's care whenever he is too exhausted to do anything.

"Can I sleep now?" Jeonghan said tiredly.

"Yes, you can," Seungcheol replied, assisting him in lying down as well.

He watches as the others fall asleep, not realizing he's humming a lullaby while slowly massaging his husband's sides. So he stands up and begins his nighttime routine, picturing a beautiful angel in his head.

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

Jeonghan was the first to awaken, and this was his first time observing Seungcheol's sleeping face. He seemed so peaceful, with his lips slightly ajar, his breathing steady, and, of course, his long eyelashes. He is so lovely and adorable.

It's unfair for him to have those long lashes. Jeonghan is impressed.

Though he was used to being woken up by a rustling sound in their kitchen, this could be his chance to impress Seungcheol with his culinary skills. So he went downstairs and did his morning routine quietly.

It's 6:30 a.m., and he's normally not in the kitchen assisting the cooks, so the staff are shocked to see him.

"Good morning," he said, and everyone responded in unison.

"We're all glad to see you here for breakfast, sir," Seokjin, one of the cooks, remarked with a smile.

"I wanted to impress my husband with my cooking skills, so I got up before him," Jeonghan explained. "What's on the menu for today?" he inquires while the other is busy rummaging through their refrigerator.

"Yoongi is assigned today," Seokjin said again, "but if you have any suggestions, we can help you." Jeonghan expected Yoongi to respond, but he received nothing. With his frigid demeanor, he reminded him of one of his friends, Jihoon, but he knows this man has a tender side and simply wants to be with his love of his life.

"I'll just help you, hyung; I can't think of any good breakfast foods," Jeonghan responded honestly, because he didn't mean to wake up and make breakfast in the first place; the idea just came to him.

Seokjin grinned and instructed him on what he needed to do. Jeonghan was astonished by how well the two work together, despite the fact that they are diametrically opposed; Seokjin is a loud person, whilst Yoongi is a silent type of person.

Jeonghan enjoyed assisting them and will surely do so again in the near future; perhaps he and Seungcheol can have a mini-challenge for this.

"He's basically awake at this time," Seokjin is wondering why Seungcheol hadn't awake. Jeonghan was surprised as well.

"I'll go wake him up," Jeonghan said and walked out of the kitchen. Before, Seungcheol wakes him up, and he wonders why the other hasn't woken up yet.

He didn't expect to see the other laying on their bed, covering his entire body and visibly shivering, as he opened the door. Despite the stunning scene, and his obvious concern, he went to him.

"Cheol?" He shakes him gently. What worries Jeonghan the most is how sweaty Seungcheol's face is, but he's covering his body as if it's too cold, and then it hits him: he's feverish.

"Shit!" Jeonghan said, after placing his hand on his brow.

"H-Hannie.." Seungcheol opened his eyes to see his husband's anxious expression. "Don't worry, I'm fine," he assured.

"You're basically shaking while bathing in your own sweat, Cheol; you have a fever," Jeonghan spat back at Seungcheol. He can't help himself; his anxious instinct has taken over.

So he turned off the air conditioning and went to get Seungcheol a new pair of clothes and a blanket. He's searching for medicine but can't find any, so he begins to panic and he knows it shows. He barely express this side of him, he is usually calm whatever situation he is in.

Seungcheol must have noticed.

"It's in the kitchen. Ask Seokjin or Yoongi hyung for that." Seungcheol muttered, and Jeonghan looked at him, embarrassed, but Seungcheol merely smiled.

He can still smile charmingly despite having a fever. Jeonghan pondered as he returned the smile.

After assisting Seungcheol in changing his clothes and returning the items they had used, Jeonghan went downstairs to inform Seokjin and Yoongi of Seungcheol's fever. He also made soup before looking for the medicine, and the two other maids assisted him upstairs.

"You need to eat this first so you can take your medicine, and you definitely can't go to work today, so don't argue with me on that; I'll call moms and dads to inform them, you need to rest," In everything Jeonghan stated, Seungcheol is just smiling to him like an idiot.

"Did you hear me?" Jeonghan inquired.

"Yes, I heard you," Seungcheol said before beginning to eat.

"I cooked it," Jeonghan interrupted, drawing Seungcheol's attention back to him. "A bit rushed, but was it good?"

"It's delicious, I love it," Seungcheol said with a smile. He noticed Jeonghan's worried expression, which changed after hearing his response.

"How about your breakfast?" Seungcheol noticed the food is only for him. "Don't worry about me too much, I can handle myself."

"Y-Yeah. I'll go eat." Jeonghan had forgotten about his breakfast due to Seungcheol's fever.

"But do you mind if I eat here with you?" Jeonghan inquires once more.

"I'd love to," Seungcheol says with a smile. "I don't want you to get sick because you're preoccupied with worrying about me," Jeonghan blushed, and certainly, he had forgotten about his meal. He's unwell, but he still flirts. Jeonghan pondered.

Seungcheol didn't have to wait long because Seokjin had already noticed and readied his breakfast. And they began to dine on their bed while conversing.

Jeonghan attempted to empathize with Seungcheol after the dinner a week ago. He always remembers his mother telling him to believe and give Seungcheol a chance, as well as their marriage, because even though they don't speak much about what's going on, their parents can sense it.

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

Jeonghan and Seungcheol were stocked with their parents, and the two didn't have time to grumble lest their secret be revealed.

"I'm sure you two have an endearment now," Sejeong exclaimed, looking at his son and son-in-law. "Jeonghannie enjoys addressing people with endearments."

Jeonghan anticipated this and prepared himself, but he is unsure about Seungcheol.

"Yes, ma, whenever we're alone, I always call him baby."

Jeonghan was taken aback to hear the other respond first as he looked across at Seungcheol with sparkling eyes. The other only smiled at him, mouthing the 'baby,' which made both of their parents coo.

"He's definitely a baby," Seungcheol added, kissing his husband on the cheek.

"Of course I am, daddu," Jeonghan said, noticing how Seungcheol's eyes gleamed and his cheeks reddened.

Sejeong and Jihyeon almost squeal, but their fathers stop them by lightly covering the women's mouth with their large hands.

"Do you call each other that in bed?" Jihyeon inquired so innocently, as if she didn't notice the other table. But, thankfully, the waiter arrived with their orders, saving them from the question. And they both hope they are.

"Sweetheart, don't ask them those kinds of questions in public, okay?" Seungtae warned his wife while remaining soft.

"I'm just curious, sweetheart.." Jihyeon muttered, pouting to his husband, and Seungcheol shakes his head in disgust as he watches his parents act like they're still in high school.

"But I'm too curious.." Sejeong mumbles, drawing a scowl from Jeonghan.

"Mom, stop it! We both agreed not to talk about our private lives, for God's sake. I'm a married man," Jeonghan deadpans, to which his two mothers apologize and begin an acceptable discourse, for which Jeonghan gratefully praises heaven.

He felt a hand on his leg, lightly massaging it, and the other smiled at him.

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

"This will definitely fit there, not that," Jeonghan remarked, frowning at Seungcheol, who was giggling at his whining.

"You don't have any taste," Jeonghan said as he exited Seungcheol.

They were in a mall with their parents for yet another triple date, and the two are grateful to God since their parents stopped asking about their private lives, which are nothing, and they both got worn out of making up stories.

After lunch, the two decided to go acquire something for their study/work area, so their parents let them wander around and promised to return to the restaurant before five o'clock to have an early dinner with some business associates, which is today's main event.

Jeonghan was still irritated that he couldn't get that light for his area in their work room because Seungcheol stated it didn't fit the wallpaper. But the design is perfect, so he's not sure why.

"Hannie, maybe you'd like this?" the other said, pointing to a lamp with a halo that matched the color of their wallpaper. It piqued Jeonghan's interest, but not enough to level his enthusiasm about the other lamp.

"I don't want to buy any," he muttered, rolling his eyes and crossing his arms, turning away.

"All right then," Seungcheol replied, making Jeonghan snap back, about to object but stopping. "I'll buy it for you."

"You what?" He heard it clearly, just can't believe what he heard.

"I'll buy them for you." Seungcheol approached him and the continued "So, you'll stop whining to me," the workers who heard and saw the couple coo, making Jeonghan disgusted.

"Whatever," Jeonghan responded, and was ready to go again when Seungcheol brought him in closer, his hand on his waist. Because they were in public, Jeonghan didn't try to fight back; instead, he looked at him, puzzled, but Seungcheol's gaze was elsewhere. As he followed his stare, he noticed a man staring at him, but because of Seungcheol's strong glare, he pretends he's not actually staring.

Possesive are we? Jeonghan pondered.

"Yes. I am."

Jeonghan was surprised to hear Seungcheol respond to his thinking. Did he actually say them aloud?

"Now he's gone," Seungcheol remarked, gazing at the place and was still holding Jeonghan on his waist as he summoned a worker to get the lamp.

Though he was still dazed by what had occurred, he admired that side of Seungcheol. If he ever notices someone staring at his attractive husband, he can be that as well.

"Everyone is staring at you; I want to cover your entire existence so they can't see what's mine; I am very possessive of what's mine, Hannie; what's mine is mine only."

Jeonghan shivers slightly at how sharp his tone was, yet blushes at the same moment. "They're just looking, you can hold me, too much difference," he said, placing a kiss on his cheeks as he leaned closer.

Seungcheol laughed. So he agreed that I was possessive over him.

————— ୨୧ —————

"You did an excellent job there," Seungcheol said as they climbed into bed after a long day.

"I don't like being rejected, so I'll do anything to get what I want," Jeonghan said proudly.

His husband taunted, "But you didn't get the lamp."

Jeonghan can easily slap him now that they're sitting side by side in their bed. They made it a habit to converse before going to bed, and occasionally they dozed off with unfinished stories.

"Because you're a jerk," Jeonghan grumbled. "But thank you for encouraging me to speak earlier; it was a huge help," he said, now smiling at his husband.

"It's nothing, but that's all your ideas, and I don't think I'd do them justice if I presented them to them, so it's really an excellent choice for you to talk about it," Seungcheol answered, reaching for Jeonghan and kissing his forehead.

Seungcheol advised them to sleep already because today had been hectic and they both had early work tomorrow.

"Let's go, sleep. Good night, Hannie."

They both fell asleep.

"Goodnight, Cheol."

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

"Were you avoiding me?" Jeonghan inquired as Seungcheol exited the shower.

"No, I am not," Seungcheol said, avoiding Jeonghan's stare. "I thought you were asleep?" he continues, changing the subject before changing his clothes.

"You clearly avoid me, Seungcheol," Jeonghan stated again as he stood up from bed and moved in front of the other.

"I am not," Seungcheol replied quickly.

"You can't even look at me," Jeonghan said, carefully raising his chin. "My face is here, Cheol," he sternly stated.

Jeonghan examines his face, peering into his eyes with no emotion, making it difficult to discern what's on his thoughts, not that he can actually read through him.

"Why? Did I do something wrong?" Jeonghan inquired once more. And Seungcheol simply shakes his head and looks away. "But why do I feel like I did something because it's been a week and you haven't talked to me? I thought we were doing well, finally adjusting to this life, but then you started avoiding me. Can you tell me now so that I know? I don't actually read what's on your mind." He just said those out loud because he can't take another day with Seungcheol avoiding him.

"It's all in your head, Jeonghan," Seungcheol responded before turning back.

He must be mad or something. He didn't call me like he used to. Hannie. Jeonghan grumbled to himself.

Seungcheol believes that this conversation will lead to nothing but cause them both to upset and have an unresolved problem that is not required to discuss in the first place. Was it?

"In my head? Like seriously, just tell me what's wrong Seungcheol," Jeonghan exclaimed, having had enough.

"There's nothing wrong," Seungcheol retorted. And Jeonghan gave him a 'Really' look as he waited for him to continue, but he didn't say anything else and continued drying his hair with his back to the other.

"Seungcheol, please just tell me why you're avoiding me," the others beg Seungcheol to stop what he's doing. And the tone of his plea is venomous.

Seungcheol turned around, facing Jeonghan again "How many times─"

"Fuck that, Cheol. I had enough, tell me what's goin─"

Jeonghan's rumbling was interrupted and abruptly stopped due to a pair of lips. It was rough yet careful, and it didn't last long, but it made Jeonghan's pulse beat faster than it should.

"I'm avoiding you because I'm scared, Hannie..." Now, Seungcheol's voice softens as he looks at Jeonghan; he can see he isn't listening, possibly due to the quick action he took, but he continues.

He wants to know, therefore he'll tell him. "I'm afraid of you leaving me for Mingyu. I heard you talking to him on the phone a week ago, and I know this marriage isn't what we both wanted, and it's only been half a year, but Hannie, I want to prove to myself that I am worthy for you. I want us, Hannie, please don't leave me."

"C-Cheol.."

"Please, Hannie, don't leave me for him, I beg you." Seungcheol clutches Jeonghan's face, cupping it and looks straight into his eyes with his teary ones.

"Him? Who?" Jeonghan was perplexed. He was plainly not paying attention to what the other had stated earlier.

"Mingyu. Don't leave me for him." Seungcheol started. "You'll meet him this weekend, right? And you said you'd asked me about it, so I'll let you meet him but please consider our parents, Hannie."

Jeonghan scowled; he overheard him conversing with Mingyu that night? But Seungcheol misinterpreted the phone call, and rethinking the conversation makes him laugh. Seungcheol glances at him as if questioning why, tears welling up in his eyes as he just laughs.

"You misunderstand it, Cheol," he says seriously as he carefully wipes Seungcheol's tears. "Mingyu is getting married this weekend, love, and he just asked if we wanted to be one of the principal sponsors because the other couple backed out, which is why I said I'm asking you first," Jeonghan added, smiling as he noticed Seungcheol's gestures alter.

Seungcheol lowered his head, as if ashamed of what he stated and begged for. But Jeonghan raises his face to meet their gaze again. "I'm not leaving you, Cheol. I'm not just thinking about our parents because I want us too, we're working on it, right? Trust me, I've been thinking about you leaving me because you get sick of me."

"No, Hannie, I promise you I won't get tired of you; our marriage isn't perfect and it's not how we wanted, but as you said, we're working on it."

I love you. Seungcheol intended to add them, but when he noticed Jeonghan leaning forward─ he beat him to it. He pressed their lips together, as if saying those three words without actually saying them.

The kiss was soft, and Seungcheol wouldn't do anything unless Jeonghan did it first, so when the younger deepened the kiss, he too the opportunity. Kissing Jeonghan like this was his dream since he discovered his feelings, since he reconsidered his feelings for him. Seungcheol has been in love to Jeonghan ever since, who wouldn't? He has this opportunity now that they are married, but he is still terrified that Jeonghan will leave him; he has no idea why he feels this way. He isn't Jeonghan's ideal; he's far from his ex, and he's well aware of that before that Jeonghan loves him so much.

Mingyu is Jeonghan's first love, and Seungcheol believes that first love never dies, so when he heard them conversing on the phone that night, his anxiety level skyrocketed. But, while he is relieved with the outcome, the thought has not left Seungcheol's mind.

The next thing he knew, they were in their bed with him hovering over Jeonghan, both of them breathing heavily from the kisses. This is the first time they've kissed like this, and it's too much for Seungcheol. He desired more of it, but if Jeonghan is unwilling to do anything, he will not do anything as well. He respects everything about Jeonghan.

"This is fine for me, Cheol. You're my husband, and we're married." Seungcheol is once again astounded by Jeonghan's ability to read his mind. Is he that vulnerable in front of him? But he wouldn't mind at all.

Seungcheol didn't say anything, because if he let himself to speak, only those three words were on his mind, ready to spill out. So he kisses him again, this time with much urgency, hinting at what he truly wants, and gladly is Jeonghan keeping up with him.

This is the first time they've done it after six months of marriage, and they were both scared and nervous. It's like they have an unspoken rule between them about that matter.

Intimacy is another level. They're starting to work on things like becoming husbands and the faith their parents place in them; they don't want to disappoint them if they divorce. So they put the intimacy aside when one is still uncomfortable, but they're on the same page now.

Jeonghan has such trust in Seungcheol that he is prepared for this marriage and further of it. Seungcheol is easy to fall for; everything about him makes Jeonghan admire him even more, and now that they're living under the same roof, he's learning a lot more about who Seungcheol is, which he knows he wouldn't be disappointed.

Meanwhile, Seungcheol has had profound secret love for Jeonghan since they met, so marrying him was a dream come true. And he told himself that he would adore him no matter what.

Both are hoping to express their affections to one another.

After only a few moments, they're both nearly naked. When Jeonghan realizes that they have something they require but lack the confidence to ask Seungcheol about it.

"C-Cheol.." He stopped him from what's he's doing to him by holding his shoulder.

"I'm sorry, Hannie; did I overwhelmed you? We can stop if─" Jeonghan kissed the other to quiet the rumble. He talks way too much. Jeonghan pondered.

"I'll just ask if..─ do you have a.. condom?"

When Jeonghan's tone becomes hesitant, Seungcheol smiles. He gets up and goes to their side drawer to obtain the item they require.

"You buy them?" Jeonghan inquired as Seungcheol settled back between his legs.

"Mama bought them and stacked them there because she said we needed them at this time," Seungcheol said. "Actually they thought we almost used them," he chuckles.

"Of course they'll think that because of all your makeup stories," Jeonghan says flatly.

Seungcheol kissed him suddenly because he doesn't want Jeonghan to be out of the mood, and when the latter kisses back almost immediately, he holds his both hands above his head as he intertwined them.

"And we'll make it come true."

Jeonghan reddened, but concealed it by reaching for Seungcheol and wrapping his legs around him while they kissed. Both moaned as their hardened members brushed against each other.

They spent their night feeling each other for the first time and both regretted doing so recently. Being intimate is something they didn't realize they both needed, wanted and desired. This helped them realize a lot more than they should have before.

They're both in love right now, as the room fills with overwhelming pleasure, desires, love and its passion. They're both madly in love with one other right at this very moment. The way their moans echoed throughout their home, and how they both reassure one other throughout the night.

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

Seungcheol and Jeonghan arrived at the chapel for the wedding. Many of the people there are somewhat familiar to Seungcheol; in fact, they are far too familiar to him. They went to greet his and Jeonghan's parents while they wandered around.

The ceremony began, and everyone took their assigned seats. Because Seungcheol and Jeonghan were unable to attend the rehearsal due to work obligations, today is the first time he will see the other person. He doesn't have time to glance at the invitation to determine if the name is a boy or a girl. He is completely clueless.

Why is it that everyone in Seungcheol's family appears to be here?

When the door opened, displaying Seungkwan in his white tuxedo, his query was answered.

Seungcheol reminded him of his own wedding; he can still remember how gorgeous Jeonghan was on that day, even if he always appeared beautiful in his eyes, but it was actually imprinted on his mind for eternity. While looking at the couple, his eyes shift to his husband with his ever so beautiful smile, but when he notices how jealous his eyes are, he can't help but worry.

What is he thinking? Did he regret marrying me? Did he wished it was him there beside Mingyu? Seungcheol is brimming with inquiries. He didn't even have time to concentrate on the ceremony.

"I now pronounce you as husbands!" The crowd erupted in applause as the couple completed the ceremony with a kiss, and everyone clapped their hands, overjoyed for the newlyweds. After signing with the sponsors and taking pictures, guests head to the reception and congratulate the newlyweds.

Seungcheol wanted to speak with the newlywed, so Jeonghan simply follows him. Seungcheol smacks his cousin in the head as they approach.

"What was that for, hyung?" Seungkwan asked as he clanged to Mingyu.

"This isn't some arranged marriage nonsense, right?" he asked the two, because he doesn't want Seungkwan to feel obligated to marry someone he didn't genuinely dated or engaged. He does not regret his marriage to Jeonghan; it is the idea that he regrets, not the person.

"No, hyung. We've been together for four years," Mingyu said as he drew Seungkwan closer to him, looking down and smiling before placing a sweet kiss on the other's forehead.

"Since when you're interested in my lovelife?" Seungkwan asks, his aura changing as he looks at his cousin.

"I'm just asking. And you.." He pointed at Mingyu as if threatening him. "Don't hurt him or I'll burn you alive." Okay, he's threatening him.

"I love Kwannie more than he knows, that's why we're here now, and I won't let anyone hurt him; I'll burn myself alive if I did anything to hurt him, hyung," Mingyu replied, not looking at Seungcheol. He's merely staring at Seungkwan with his adoring gaze.

They're so in love is what Seungcheol confirms.

The newlyweds said their goodbyes and thanked them for accepting on such short notice. Seungcheol notices Jeonghan has been silent; he speaks only when Seungkwan or Mingyu ask him to, and that's it. So he wonders, but all he can think about is what he saw in the latter's eyes before the ceremony began.

Are you truly jealous? Seungcheol reflected.

Jeonghan is still quiet in the reception area; he's not even chatting to him, and he's at their parents' table. He's clinging to his mother like a toddler who's too bored in this situation. Something odd about his behavior piqued Seungcheol's interest.

So, when they arrived at their house, Seungcheol had time to speak with his husband, but when Jeonghan rushed straight to their room's corridor, he stopped him. When he held his wrist, Jeonghan didn't even return his gaze.

"Hannie, are you okay? You've been so quiet since the church.." He then moved in front of him without waiting for him to look back.

"What happened?" he questioned softly, now clutching his both arms.

"Nothing. I'm just tired.." Jeonghan responded, sighing and looking down.

Before speaking, Seungcheol remained silent for a minute. "Okay, take a shower, and then we'll talk."

"About what?" Jeonghan inquired, becoming irritated.

"Your mood earlier. I knew something was wrong.." He replied and that's when it hit Jeonghan's frustration button.

"You already knew there was something wrong, but you didn't do anything or think about what you did," Jeonghan became enraged.

"Hannie, calm down okay, that's why I wanted us to talk about it; we promised we'd stop shutting each other out─ that we'd used words, right?" Seungcheol reached for the other's hand to help him calm down.

"Fine," Jeonghan said as he returned to their living room and sat down, followed by Seungcheol.

"File for divorce now while it's not too hurt," Jeonghan said. It became quite silent after that, and Jeonghan will not be surprised if he receives a response, so he continues. "This marriage is nonsense, right? Let's get this over with as soon as possible."

Seungcheol has been at a loss for words since Jeonghan began speaking; he completely misunderstands his assertion. But it doesn't mean he's not responding; he's just thinking.

After lengthy silence for Jeonghan, he thinks Seungcheol isn't listening or, worse, doesn't care.

"It's why your mood changes?" Seungcheol asks, prompting Jeonghan to scoff.

"Finally, you speak; let us end this now, is that what you want?" he said arrogantly.

"Jeonghan!" Seungcheol warned, while the other simply rolled his eyes.

"Do you really want to end this, Jeonghan?" The aforementioned didn't respond right away, only staring at him.

"Why not? It comes from you, Cheol; this marriage is nothing but nonsense, so why should we make an effort to keep it going?"

"Or because you're jealous?" Seungcheol didn't think before asking those questions.

"What? Why would I?"

"I saw you looking at them with such jealousy in your eyes, Hannie, and it made me think maybe you regret being here with me now. You regret breaking up with Mingyu four years ago, and you hope you're the one with him at the altar, right? So, I should be the one asking you to file a divorce now before I fall even harder and what did you say? While its not too hurt well, go on I would sign that paper but actually even if we divorced you can't be with him because he's with Seungkwan, they're married and you witness that."

Jeonghan scoffs and spatted back. "That's why you said that in front of them that this marriage is nonsense."

"Of course not! The idea, the setup, and everything, but not you. Not us." Seungcheol looks him in the eyes, their stare softening slightly, but the mood remains heavy.

"I'm part of the idea, Cheol, I'm also in the set up and everything, so why not me? It hurts to hear that from you, out of all people, Seungcheol. It hurts so bad." Jeonghan also calms down, but his breath becomes caught every time he continues to talk. Everything Seungcheol has spoken to him has damaged him.

Seungcheol cupped Jeonghan's face, realizing what he had said. His thoughts were preoccupied by what he saw through the latter's eyes; he should think before speaking.

"I'm sorry I hurt you with my words; I didn't realize it would affect you this much, Hannie, but you have no idea how scared I am seeing that in your eyes." He pauses for a moment, doing everything he can to meet their gaze before continuing. "I'm scared because─"

"No, Cheol," Jeonghan said, raising his hand to silence Seungcheol. "I've heard enough from you," Jeonghan stated before departing.

He exited the house, leaving Seungcheol inside, speechless and unable to move from his posture. Jeonghan was deeply affected by what he said, and he knew he said something wrong that triggered them both, but he won't apologize.

"I'm scared because I love you.."

Seungcheol only sat there, whispering those to nothing but the chilly atmosphere that covered the entire house. Because he is alone, alone in their home, the feelings are considerably more intense.

Seungcheol decided to follow Jeonghan because he had nowhere else to go but his parents' house, which was an hour away and Jeonghan couldn't drive. So, this certain place was on his mind.

He rushed to the abandoned lot and saw his husband sitting on something with his head bowed, his cries noticeable due to the silence. Hearing those was the last thing Seungcheol wanted to hear in his life, and it hurt him. It hurt him even more because he was the reason of those tears.

Jeonghan spotted someone's presence and was going to leave because he wasn't in the mood to deal with anyone right now, but was stopped when he heard the familiar voice beckoning him.

"Hannie, please let's talk about it," he said softly, holding his wrist.

Jeonghan remained still, his head bowed as he sobbed. Why he was in such pain?

Seungcheol continues to hold him from behind, and Jeonghan flinches but relaxes when the older nuzzles his nose on his nape. He tried to slip out from the hold, but as he heard silent cries, he suddenly paused.

Jeonghan knew they were both in pain. But why is it so painful?

Jeonghan is still crying, and hearing Seungcheol's muffled tears makes his heart clenched. They remain in that position for quite some time.

"I'm sorry.." Jeonghan was the first to break the silence.

"No, Hannie, I am the one who is sorry; you did nothing," Seungcheol said as he turned around, his hand on his waist. Jeonghan wipes his tears away as he speaks.

"I'm sorry I hurt you with my words; if I had known it would hurt you this much, Hannie, I would have slapped myself, but I just wanted you to know I'm scared seeing so much jealousy in your eyes." He elaborated his statements. "I'm scared because I love you, Hannie, and I have since the first time you approached me at my table in college, even though you're in a relationship I have been loving─"

Seungcheol came to a halt as Jeonghan placed his index finger on his lips and then pressed their foreheads together. "Yes, Cheol, I'm jealous," Jeonghan stated while staring at Seungcheol with perplexed eyes.

"I'm jealous because I want to marry someone who will be as devoted to me as I was," he paused, cupping the older man's face. "I hope I could feel that too, Cheol, I mean I love you too.."

Seungcheol's entire existence came to a halt when he heard it. He looks at Jeonghan with a captivated expression on his face; Jeonghan wanted to laugh but instead he kissed him. Seungcheol didn't respond right away, so Jeonghan drew away, but before he could, his husband grabbed him again and kissed him with such tenderness and care that it felt like he was taking Jeonghan's breath slowly.

"Say it again, please?" Seungcheol breath in between their mouth.

"I love you too, Cheol" Jeonghan whispers.

"I love you more, Hannie."

Seungcheol kissed him again, he doesn't know why, but he has tears in his eyes, and when the hot liquid flowed down, Jeonghan pulled away worriedly. As he wiped the other's tears, he cupped Seungcheol's cheek. He didn't need to ask since he understands, and he also felt like crying but with happy tears.

Actually, happy isn't enough to define it; it goes beyond that. And they're both feeling it right now.

"Let's go home.."

"I love that." Jeonghan smiles and hold Seungcheol's hand, intertwining with his own.

Why do their misunderstandings lead to something emotional that they both know will turn hot? It's not that they're complaining; they both enjoy the way their emotions mix and flow.

When they arrived to their house, Seungcheol wasted no time in pinning Jeonghan against the door of their room and attacking his neck.

"I'm not going anywhere, calm down," Jeonghan said between moans as Seungcheol began undressing him.

Seungcheol didn't say anything as he brought Jeonghan to their bed, where he laid him as he attacked the lips again, while the other bring him closer by wrapping his legs on his waist.

Seungcheol remembers the first time they did it that night, and he wasn't expecting it to happen again, but this time it was much sweeter and more passionate when they finally said those powerful three words. This time, they spend so much time loving each other that they eventually confess their suppressed feelings.

✧——————✧◦༺༻◦✧——————✧

━ Six months later ━

"It's cold in here, baby," Seungcheol murmured, approaching Jeonghan on their balcony, placing his arms around his waist and resting his head on the other's shoulder.

Jeonghan simply snuggled in closer to Seungcheol, enjoying his warmth as the chilly breeze blew through their flesh.

"You're thinking of something, aren't you?" Seungcheol inquired as he saw Jeonghan's wandering gaze and sighs.

"I have a secret, daddu." Jeonghan turned around, his hands on his husband's chest, and he couldn't look Seungcheol in the eyes.

"I'm listening, my love." Seungcheol encourages him with a soft kiss on his lips, "Whatever it is, I love you."

That gave Jeonghan the confidence to speak up. He's been wanting to let Seungcheol know, but he's frightened of what his reaction will be. Will he revolt him? Jeonghan is loss for words.

"I'm a carrier, Cheol," Jeonghan says, shocked at Seungcheol's reaction. He merely looked at him, softly smiling.

"I know, baby" Seungcheol said, holding Jeonghan closer. "Papa told me a day before our wedding that Mama and him trust me to take care of you, which is why I always make sure we're safe and protected, especially you, Hannie. And that one time when you open up about why I seem hesitant everytime we're doing it, it's just because I don't want you to think I only wanted your body, so I want you to make the first move because I respect you so much.." he then placed a soft kiss as if saying he is sorry.

"Then, after the wedding, I'm waiting for you to tell me about it, but I eventually let you, because I was thinking maybe you're not comfortable enough to say and talk about it with me."

"Thank you, Cheol. I love you so much." Jeonghan's only response was to hug Seungcheol fiercely.

Jeonghan worries for nothing. Why did he distrust Seungcheol after he has shown his love and his respect for him over the span of a year? Jeonghan wanted to slap himself for putting low faith in his husband.

"I love you more, Hannie." Seungcheol reciprocates the hugs.

When Jeonghan broke the hug, he cupped Seungcheol's face. This man married him, love him completely, and will endure whatever extent with and for him. Jeonghan is undoubtedly falling more and more in loved to him.

"I'm so lucky to have you."

Seungcheol beats him to the punch. He's far more fortunate to have him as his best buddy now his husband with whom he promised to discuss everything. And, as he wishes for, someone who is equally devoted as him.

"I love you so much, daddu."

Jeonghan placed a delicate kiss on his lips and said, "I suddenly recall my vow. You're my savior and protector, my partner in crime. Honestly, back then it just meant for you as my long time friend who tied with me but now, I know why said those in front of our witnesses. You're my other half, I'm so lucky to marry you, to have you in my life," he pauses to place another soft kiss.

"Let us fulfill your dream of having a family," Jeonghan said, kissing Seungcheol without waiting for him to respond.

This marriage isn't really that awful because the two have been tricking themselves about their attachments for each other ever since. Jeonghan silently asked his parents that they would choose Seungcheol as his husband after they told him about their marriage plans and, thankfully, both parents agreed on it. Even if the main goal is to help both companies, Jeonghan can only trust Seungcheol and hopes (knows) that the older trusts him as well.

Seungcheol actually asked his father if he wanted to continue the plan of arranging his marriage he choose someone who is close to him, and his father gladly understood what he meant.

"Did I tell you how much I love you?" Seungcheol inquired innocently, wrapping his arms around Jeonghan.

Seungcheol just wonders if he expressed his love or if it was enough for Jeonghan to feel but he also thinks it wasn't.

"You just didn't tell me; I've been feeling them all, daddu, ever since," Jeonghan said as he snuggled closer.

"I love you so much, Hannie and thank you.."

"Thank you for what?" Jeonghan asked, gazing up from Seungcheol's bare chest.

Seungcheol clasped Jeonghan's face and kissed him softly. "Everything, Hannie, and especially the trust you have in me."

Jeonghan smiled, pulling himself up to level Seungcheol's face and offer him a lovely kiss; he has no idea what the older is thinking, but that was the best response to his queries.

Seungcheol thanked the heavens and the earth for trusting him with this opportunity; he had been waiting for this time and was overjoyed that it had finally arrived. If his parents weren't going to choose Jeonghan, he would do anything to keep that boy in his arms for the rest of his life since he does not trust anybody but himself to care of Jeonghan. He's relieved that they've overcome everything.