Archive of Our Own

Every day around three in the afternoon, Jeonghan sits on the same bench. 

It’s a fine bench. Not particularly great in any capacity. It’s metal, and the ground beneath it is just grass and dirt. No sidewalk leads up to it, and there’s no path nearby. It’s under a willow tree, which is nice enough for shade, and it’s within shouting distance of a well traveled playground. 

Jeonghan didn’t choose it for a reason— it was just there when he wanted to sit. But now it’s his bench. He sits on it every day around three, and he leaves around three thirty. A good resting spot.

No one ever bothers him. There’s no need. Most of the people in this park are young families with kids. Some of them have dogs. There’s always plenty of people that are very focused on their own lives. 

“Hi.” 

He blinks his eyes open. He’s tired today. He was nearly falling asleep— he didn’t even hear anyone walk up. Nor did he hear anyone sit down. 

But, then again, the person who joined him is a literal child. Can’t be more than ten, probably. Jeonghan has no fucking idea how children look at different ages. He’s only good at differentiating once they’re, like, thirteen. 

This kid definitely isn’t thirteen. He’s tiny. Legs swinging, feet in chunky, neon green sneakers, hair choppy and reaching the nape of his neck. Staring at Jeonghan with big, bright eyes. 

“Hey,” Jeonghan coughs, sitting upright. What is the procedure here? Does he need to call the cops? 

The kid keeps staring. “What’s your name?” 

He should call the cops, right? “Jeonghan.” 

“Hi, Jeonghan. I’m Shota.” 

Jeonghan looks around, trying to see if there are any adults in the vicinity. There’s none. Absolutely no one is paying attention to them. “Where are your parents, kid?”

Shota shrugs. “My mom is on an airplane. I don’t know where my dad is.” 

“Hm,” Jeonghan takes a breath. His heart picks up a bit. This is really throwing off his rest time. Truly. “Are you lost?” 

“No,” Shota sounds sure of it. He squeezes shut one eye and points a finger towards the left side of the playground. “My Uncle Chan is over there. He’s wearing red so I can find him.” 

Jeonghan follows Shota’s directions. There is, in fact, a man wearing red sitting on a bench where he’s pointing. Engaged in conversation with someone else. Not a care in a world for this kid, apparently. 

Well. It’s not like there’s any real danger around here. This is one of the nicest neighborhoods in the city— it just seems a bit irresponsible. Maybe. Jeonghan doesn’t know, actually. He doesn’t know much about kids. 

“Does he know where you are?” 

“I like to be alone,” Shota says, still kicking his feet back and forth. Back and forth. He sticks his arm out, showing off the device strapped to it. Neon green. “And my watch tells him where I am so I don’t get lost. One time I got lost because I was talking to bugs, so my dad bought me this watch so I don’t get lost anymore.” 

“Alright,” Jeonghan blinks. “You really shouldn’t talk to strangers, kid. And you definitely shouldn’t tell them your name.” 

Shota’s face scrunches up sourly. He tosses a hand in the direction of his uncle. “That’s how Uncle Chan became friends with that guy.”

Jeonghan eyes the uncle. He’s running a hand through his hair and laughing. Leaning into the guy he’s talking to. Clearly flirting. Surely it’s bad optics to let your nephew start up conversations with strangers just to get some, right?

“Right, but he’s an adult. You’re a kid. It’s different. Adults can do that, kids can’t.” 

“All of my friends are adults,” Shota says confidently. 

“Aish,” Jeonghan breathes through his teeth. “Are you always so disagreeable?”  

“Only one minute left,” Shota says. He holds his watch up, staring at the surface. It begins to beep a handful of seconds later. He smashes the side of it with one his other hand, hops off the bench. “Goodbye, Jeonghan.” 

Jeonghan doesn’t know what to say back. He doesn’t know if he should be following the kid to teach him a lesson. Telling off the uncle. What is the proper procedure for running into a random kid that has no concept of safety? Jeonghan doesn’t know. So he just stares, watching Shota zip back over to the man he pointed out as his uncle, shoving the watch in his face. 

Uncle Chan sets a hand over Shota’s head, ruffling his hair. He listens to whatever Shota is saying— takes him seriously enough to bow out of the conversation with his companion. 

And then they’re gone, no telling off having occurred. One child still without any concept of stranger danger. 

Whatever. It’s not Jeonghan’s problem anymore. This is just his bench. 

⚘

“Hi Jeonghan.” 

Jeonghan has his eyes open today, but Shota sneaks up behind him and pokes him on the shoulder. 

“What the f— heck,” Jeonghan corrects himself before he lets the language slip. He never spends time around children. He needs to learn how to behave. “It’s you.” 

“I come to the park on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Those are the days Uncle Chan takes me home from school.” 

“Okay,” Jeonghan blinks. He blinks three more times. He was wondering if he’d see this kid again, because yesterday there was no sign of him— but he also didn’t need to know with that much specificity. “That’s not information you should tell a stranger, buddy.” 

Shota is trudging around the bench and sitting down on the other side, like he belongs there. He’s wearing his neon green shoes, and his watch. Half of his hair is tied up in a sprout of a ponytail on top of his head. It’s unbearably cute. Jeonghan never thinks kids are cute. Seriously.

“You’re not a stranger. We met last time. Remember?” Shota looks at him like he’s an idiot. 

“Okay, but you don’t know me. And just because I’m not a bad guy doesn’t mean other people aren’t bad guys.” 

Shota starts kicking his legs, feet dangling in the air. “I don’t talk to anyone else. Just you.” 

“Okay.” Jeonghan tried. He really did. He’s not going to parent this kid. That’s not his job. He’s just some guy at the park. 

“Do you like bugs?” 

“Not necessarily.” 

“I like bugs,” Shota says. “My Uncle Jihoon is an ent-o-mol-o-gist.” 

There’s no way this kid is real. He’s gotta be some complicated figment of Jeonghan’s imagination. “How many uncles do you have?” 

Shota holds up both hands. Seven fingers. “A lot. How many uncles do you have?” 

“None.” 

“Wow,” Shota exhales a long sigh, as if he’s seriously put out. “Your life must be pretty boring.” 

“Aye—” Jeonghan’s jaw drops, an incredulous laugh escaping. He can’t even argue. His life is kind of boring. He works. He goes home. He goes out for drinks with his friends sometimes. He sits on this bench to get his allotted fresh air. 

“I’m just being honest.” 

Jeonghan snorts. He crosses his arms, then his legs. “Yeah. Alright. You’re right. It’s a little boring.” 

Shota nods knowingly. There’s a long pause in conversation, both of them sitting, listening to the kids screaming in the distance, the wind whistling through the trees. 

“Do you have any kids?” Shota asks eventually. 

“God, no.” Jeonghan realizes maybe he shouldn’t come off so emphatic a moment too late. This is a five year old he’s talking to. Or something. An under ten year old. He doesn’t know. 

“How old are you?” 

“I’m thirty.” 

“Wow,” Shota rubs his palm against his forehead— shocked. “My dad had me when he was twenty four, but Uncle Chan says it’s because he was making bad decisions.” 

Jeonghan is coming to detest this Uncle Chan character. Really. Who says that to a child? It’s one step below saying that they were a mistake. 

“I’m sure your dad doesn’t think that,” Jeonghan clucks his tongue. “What is up with your Uncle Chan? Is he mean?” 

“He’s my favorite uncle, but don’t tell Uncle Seungkwan, or he’ll get sad. He gets sad a lot, he cries more than me. I don’t really cry anymore.” 

“Okay. If you’re sure.” 

“I am sure.” Shota has never sounded unsure for one second in the brief time Jeonghan has known him. “Did you know that some species of praying mantises the girls eat the boys after they mate?” 

Jeonghan stares. “No. I didn’t know that.” 

Shota’s watch starts beeping. He smacks it to silence it. “Goodbye, Jeonghan!” And he’s gone. 

“Bye.” 

And that’s all. Shota runs over to his uncle, and his uncle ends his conversation— apparently they’re on some sort of timeline, despite the lack of order while Shota wanders around to speak with strange men. 

⚘

On Thursday, Jeonghan talks to Wonwoo, because he figures Wonwoo is his most level headed friend— though, the bar is low. 

“It’s weird, no?” Jeonghan asks into the phone. He’s sitting on the bench, but it’s a Thursday, so there’s no Shota in sight. “What do I do about it? Should I tell the kid’s uncle?” 

“Find another bench?” Wonwoo suggests. 

Jeonghan scowls. He likes this bench. “No. Why would you even think that’s an option?” 

“Well, then, just talk to the kid. What harm is it? At least if he’s talking to you he’s not talking to someone actually freaky.” 

“What do you mean actually freaky?” 

Wonwoo hangs up the phone.

⚘

Monday, Wednesday, Friday. 

The days Shota and his uncle are at the park. 

The days Shota sits next to Jeonghan on his bench, and talks Jeonghan’s ear off while his uncle flirts with a man that seems to have a child of his own. 

Jeonghan has been hanging out with a random kid at the park for like, three weeks straight. 

“Ladybugs live for two to three years, which is a lot for a normal bug, but there’s still a lot of bugs that live longer than that.” 

Jeonghan has never learned more fun facts about bugs in his life. 

“Dragonflies live on every continent in the world except for Antarctica.” 

“I can’t imagine there would be many bugs in Antarctica.” 

Shota shakes his head. “Nope. I don’t want to go there. I’d rather go to Africa. They have spiny flower mantises, I’d really like to see one of those in the wild.” 

“Of course.” 

“Of course,” Shota echoes. He’s been picking up on some of Jeonghan’s speaking habits, too. Little things like that. 

Shota is six years old. Jeonghan eventually asked him, because he felt like it was past the point where it could be considered creepy, given that Shota hangs out with him half the week. He knows a lot about the kid by now, actually. He’s in first grade. His mom works a lot, she’s very good at her job. His dad works less, but he can’t usually pick Shota up from school. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Uncle Mingyu picks Shota up. Uncle Mingyu doesn’t know how to ride a bike, which Shota thinks is funny, because Shota knows how to ride one, and he learned a long time ago. 

“Only three minutes left, Jeonghan,” Shota sighs, staring at the digital numbers on the face of his watch. 

Jeonghan smiles. He’s been finding himself doing that a lot, lately. Especially when he’s hanging out with the kid. “Where do you go so fast every day at three thirty? You have a packed schedule?” 

“Of course,” Shota chirps. “It takes twenty minutes to walk home, and my show comes on at four o’ clock.” 

“Your show?” 

“Yup,” Shota pops the p. He gets a little smug, then. “A Youtube show about bugs. I bet you don’t know it.” 

Jeonghan whistles, sounding as impressed as possible. “Probably not. You’re the expert.” 

“Uncle Jihoon didn’t even know about it. I had to teach him about it.” 

“That’s crazy.” 

“I know.” 

Shota’s watch begins to beep. 

“See ya, Jeonghan!” 

“Bye, kid.” 

And Shota goes. 

Actually, this is the one time that Jeonghan has felt any sort of affection for Uncle Chan. Every day, as soon as Shota runs over, no matter how engrossed in his conversation with his beau he is, he gets up and leaves to take Shota home. He clearly knows how important the bug show is. Shota cares a lot about bugs. Like— a lot. 

Today, Uncle Chan lets Shota climb on his back as they trudge out of the park. Little green sneakers kicking in the air.

⚘

“Does your Uncle Chan have a job?” 

“Of course,” Shota says. 

He’s quieter today. He brought a book. Sat next to Jeonghan and opened it. Started reading. 

Jeonghan doesn’t even know if he can read like that. Maybe he’s just looking at the pictures very carefully. 

He’s entertaining Jeonghan’s questions when he asks, but besides that, he’s engrossed. He seems perfectly happy for an average Wednesday afternoon. 

“What does he do?” Jeonghan presses. He’s been staring at Chan since Shota arrived, trying to figure him out. He’s too far away to get a good read. Probably a bit shorter than Jeonghan, he looks younger, too. He must be younger, given everything. Jeonghan thinks Uncle Chan might be his enemy. 

“He works at my school.” Shota flips the page. Surely, his book must be about bugs. It seems highly likely. 

“At your school?” Jeonghan narrows his eyes at Uncle Chan across the park. 

“Yep.” 

“What does he do?” 

“He’s my gym teacher.” 

Jeonghan can’t help the scoff that comes out. “He’s a teacher?”  

“Mhm. He’s good at it. Everyone likes him, but he likes me best. But I’m not allowed to tell anyone that. At school I have to call him Teacher Lee.” 

“That’s probably good. Don’t want anyone to play favorites.” 

Shota doesn’t respond to that. He buries his nose back in his book, eyes sweeping over the page. 

There’s a lot of birds out today. Lots of chirping. A lot of kids out, too. Running around the playground, chasing each other. The branches of the willow tree sway in the wind. 

Jeonghan used to spend every day on the bench in complete silence. He likes sitting quietly. Or, he did. Ever since Shota showed up, he’s kind of started to expect conversation. He’s itching for it, even. 

This is ridiculous. He’s fully aware how ridiculous this is.

“Where’d you get the book? The library?” 

Shota shakes his head. “My mommy bought it for me.” 

“Ah, cool. Is it about bugs?” 

“Yep.” 

“Cool, cool.” 

All of Jeonghan’s friends have been making fun of him. Jisoo wanted to tag along to the park one day to meet Shota— he kept saying “If I’m getting replaced, I have to make sure he’s a good man.” 

Jeonghan vetoed the idea, because he’s still aware of how odd it is for a grown man to be friends with a child he met in the park. 

“Dad said I can invite you to my birthday next year, by the way.” Shota flips the page. Unbothered.

“Oh.” Jeonghan doesn’t even know what to say to that. What is he going to be an adult at a kids party, but one that only knows the birthday kid? He understands how ridiculous this is. “Alright. Thanks, kid.” 

“No problem. I want to come to your birthday too.” 

“Sure, sure. If I do anything, you’ll be invited.” 

He won’t do anything. This is ridiculous. He can’t be actual, legitimate friends with a child. 

⚘

Jeonghan feels a bit stupid for the way his chest sinks when he shows up to the park and Chan isn’t sitting on his normal bench with his dilf. 

Has he really made such a routine of talking to a random kid that he comes to anticipate it? 

Is he disappointed he can’t spend time with a six year old?

Yes. Unfortunately, that is the current season of his life. 

Jeonghan sighs. He checks his phone for the time. It’s already ten past three. 

Maybe Shota’s parents found out that Chan is horrible at watching over him. Maybe Jeonghan will never see the kid again— which, okay. He guesses he doesn’t really have much logical reason to be upset about it, but he still feels a little bummed. He likes the kid. He likes learning random facts about insects— he’s been impressing Seokmin with them for weeks. 

“Jeonghan, I caught a bug.” 

Jeonghan jumps, hand on his chest. Speak of the devil and he shall appear. 

Shota hops up on the bench, hands cupped around something, holding them up to Jeonghan’s face. 

“Where have you been? I didn’t see your uncle today.” 

“It’s a daddy long legs,” Shota ignores him. He opens his hands to reveal a spider whose legs have the surface area of his tiny palms. The thing runs as soon as the air hits it, crawling straight up Shota’s arm. He doesn’t flinch, but Jeonghan does. “They’re super poisonous, but their fangs are too short to bite humans.” 

“Okay, you should get it off you.” 

Shota cocks his head, face screwing up. “Why?” 

“Aren’t you afraid it’s dirty?” Jeonghan feels himself making a face as he watches the spider crawl around on Shota’s shoulder. He almost reaches out and brushes it away himself, but he doesn’t want Shota to be upset with him. 

“Not really. But it might have a family. I’ll put it back.” Shota takes the bug off his shirt and runs towards a tree behind the bench. He crouches down and places it exactly where he found it, giant smile adorning his face afterwards. 

God damn it. Jeonghan is really fond of this kid. He’s so fucking cute, and strange, and undeniably charming. 

“All done.” He sits back on the bench, a bit closer to Jeonghan than before. 

“Where’s your uncle, dude?” 

“Probably at home. I don’t know.” 

“Did you come by yourself?” 

“No.” 

Jeonghan has noticed that Shota does this a lot. He’ll give straightforward answers, but never any more. Jeonghan would have to pick apart every detail via request to get the answers he’s looking for. 

Either way, Jeonghan doesn’t have to wonder for long. A frazzled man is running up, plucking Shota off the bench by his shoulders and setting him on the ground. Squatting to his level, back turned to Jeonghan like he’s not there. 

“Choi Shota—” he says sternly, though Jeonghan can hear the fear laced in his voice. “What were you thinking? You disappeared!” 

Wow. Finally, an adult that seems to care about Shota’s whereabouts. 

Shota looks over the guy’s shoulder for a second, meeting Jeonghan’s eyes before looking back. “I told you!” Shota insists, close to a whine. “I told you I was going to talk to Jeonghan.” 

Jeonghan opens his mouth but no sound comes out. 

“I told you to stay on the playground, bug,” the man says, one big hand cupping Shota’s cheek, thumb pressing into the apple. It does something dangerous to Jeonghan’s heart. “You scared me.” 

“Dad,” Shota levels, like he’s arguing a case. “I told you I was going to talk to Jeonghan.” He frowns. He looks over his father’s shoulder again, seeking help, maybe. 

The dad finally catches on then. He looks behind him, following Shota’s eyes. Then does a double take when he realizes that someone is, in fact, sitting on the bench. 

“Shi— I’m so sorry,” he says, putting a hand up in a pathetic little wave. “He’s a wanderer. I hope he didn’t bother you.” 

Jeonghan laughs, surprised. “It’s alright?” 

The dad nods with a pained smile. He turns back to Shota. Says, “Let's go— you can play with Jeonghan at home.” 

Jeonghan blinks. 

Shota blinks. He looks at his dad like he’s an idiot. Points at Jeonghan with a strong finger. “No, that’s Jeonghan.” 

“Sorry?” his dad looks back to Jeonghan. Then to the kid. Jeonghan again. The kid again. 

“That’s Jeonghan,” Shota repeats. “My friend Jeonghan.” 

“I am Jeonghan,” Jeonghan adds, because it feels relevant. 

“Oh my god, you’re real.” Shota’s dad goes bright red, right to the tips of his ears. He stands up, keeping one of Shota’s hands clasped in his. It’s the first time Jeonghan has seen the whole of him. Flustered, and harried, his hair windswept, probably from running around looking for his kid. 

Handsome. He’s really fucking handsome. Big, pretty eyes, just like his kid. Broad shoulders— even through oversized clothes it’s clear he works out. A man. Really. A man. Oh, Jeonghan is fucked. 

“I am,” he says, after a beat too long, because he’s been busy ogling. He hopes it can be written off, given the circumstance. 

“He has so many imaginary friends— we all thought he was making you up—” Shota’s dad rushes to explain. He’s blushing furiously. “Chan said he’s never seen anyone—” 

“Well,” Jeonghan laughs. He’s been waiting for this moment. “Usually Chan is too busy flirting with some guy on the playground to notice.”  

Shota’s dad makes a little noise, almost defeated. His face scrunches up, and for the first time he looks just like Shota. Jeonghan’s chest hurts a little bit. 

“Okay. This has been really insightful,” he says. He waves a hand in the air, eyes failing to meet Jeonghan’s. “I’m going to have to talk with him about that— uh— I’m sorry, you’ve been, like, babysitting my kid three times a week, apparently.” 

“Eh, he’s pretty self sufficient,” Jeonghan shoots Shota a wink, then. Because Shota looks all grumpy, and Jeonghan really doesn’t want the kid to get in trouble for his uncle’s misdoings. “I know a lot about bugs now.” 

“Hah!” Shota’s dad lets out a weak laugh. He runs a hand through his hair, only making it messier. God, he’s really handsome. “I’m Seungcheol. His dad.” 

Jeonghan offers him a smile. “Jeonghan.” 

“I feel like I need to make this up to you—” Seungcheol starts, but Jeonghan doesn’t let him finish. 

“No, it’s really okay, he’s a good kid—” 

Seungcheol cuts him off, then. “I have to do something—” 

“You could give me your number—” Jeonghan blurts before he can think better of it. He rushes to cover his own ass, this man probably has a fucking wife— “So I know who to call if he needs help. Or if Chan isn’t doing his due diligence, or whatever,” he ends lamely.

“Sure— yeah, that would be great, actually,” Seungcheol brightens. He fumbles getting his phone out of his pocket, one hand still holding onto Shota. It falls onto the ground, and he has to wipe it on his pants before handing it to Jeonghan. 

Oh, god. He’s really cute. Jeonghan is doomed. 

“Just call yourself. I remember your name.” 

Jeonghan raises one eyebrow, smile playing at his lips. 

Seungcheol at least has the humility to blush. He’s even redder than before, if it’s possible. “I mean— because Shota talks about you all the time— you know how it is.” 

“Right. I know,” Jeonghan taps his number into Seungcheol’s phone. Calls himself. “Now you have it.” 

“Perfect. Thank you so much— and, really, I’m sorry. And thanks for not being a creep, I guess.” 

Jeonghan laughs. “I mean, you really shouldn’t have to thank me for that.” 

“But I am anyway. Because my friend is an idiot that lets my child talk with strange men,” Seungcheol catches himself again. “I mean— you’re not strange, but you could have been. This is all coming out wrong. I’m sorry. We’re sorry.” 

Shota hasn’t moved the entire time. He’s just standing, staring into the distance, getting a little wiggly as he grows impatient. 

“Don’t go too hard on the kid, yeah? He’s my favorite friend under the age of twenty eight.” Jeonghan reaches out to poke Shota’s arm, earning a smile. 

“Gosh, that’s pretty serious, isn’t it?” Seungcheol sighs. He’s doing a horrible job at holding back his own smile, cheeks still stained pink. 

Jeonghan nods, pressing his lips together. “Majorly.” 

Shota’s watch begins to beep. 

“Time to go!” he declares, tugging on Seungcheol’s arm. 

“Alright. Uh, Jeonghan, I’ll text you, or call  you— or something— I’m serious about making it up to you, alright?” Seungcheol is desperately trying to get everything out as he allows Shota to pull him away.

“I just told you it’s not a big deal.” 

“Let me make it up to you,” Seungcheol is close to begging. It looks good on him. “It’ll make me feel better.” 

Jeonghan’s tongue rolls along the inside of his cheek. “Alright,” he says eventually.

“Goodbye, Jeonghan! See you next time!” Shota remembers at the last minute. 

“Bye, kid.” 

Seungcheol waves. Jeonghan’s stomach does something evil. He’s seconds away from coughing up butterflies or something. 

He’s aware of how ridiculous this is.

⚘

“I gave him my number.”

“Oh my god,” Wonwoo says, fingers to his temple. 

“He has children,” Seokmin helpfully reminds Jeonghan. “He might have a wife.”

Jisoo hums, lips turned down. “Does he have a ring?” 

“I was a little busy to be staring at his hands,” Jeonghan stares into his third glass of wine. He finally gave up and told his friends about Seungcheol after his second, because he hasn’t been able to quit thinking about it.

Wonwoo scoffs. “What, but you could stare at his face for so long you got butterflies?” 

“Shut up,” Jeonghan takes another long drink. “He calls Shota bug.” 

“Okay, that is really cute,” Seokmin nods seriously. At least someone is on his side, even if it is temporary. 

“Right? And he’s so hot— like— I’m telling you guys— he’s so hot.” 

“I just don’t think dads are worth it,” Jisoo swirls his own wine glass, nose scrunched up. 

“Like you’d know anything about dating dads, Jisoo,” Jeonghan shoots back, a bit of bitterness laced in his tone. 

Jisoo purses his lips, unbothered. “I call Seokmin daddy sometimes, it counts.” 

“It definitely doesn’t,” Wonwoo says, his fingers still pressing into his temples. 

“Didn’t you just say dads aren’t worth it?” Seokmin puts his hands on his chest like he’s been shot. “Am I not dad-ing hard enough for you, Soo?” 

“No, babe, that’s not what I meant—” 

“No domestics at wine night, my god, how many times do we have to enforce this rule,” Jeonghan flicks Jisoo’s forehead. 

Wonwoo ups his volume, drowning everyone else out. “The dad probably won’t even call Jeonghan. Dad-problem solved.” 

Jeonghan’s phone pings a moment later. Speak of the devil, or whatever. 

Choi Seungcheol

What’s your coffee order?

Or do you not drink coffee? 

What would be your order if I stopped by that cafe near the park on Monday afternoon?

Seokmin makes a noise that Jeonghan didn’t think humanly possible.

“Eat your hand, Jeon Wonwoo,” Jisoo says. 

Wonwoo looks at Jeonghan all too knowingly. “You got butterflies again, didn’t you?” 

Jeonghan shrugs, staring at his phone. “Only a little. Did you know that some butterflies drink the tears of reptiles to stay hydrated?”

He finishes his wine before he even tries to reply to Seungcheol, because he’s mature and sane.

⚘

On Monday, Seungcheol is at the park before Jeonghan is, and Shota is nowhere to be found. 

Jeonghan huffs, wandering up to his bench, hands in his pockets. He tries not to go too insane over the way Seungcheol lights up when he sees him. Holding up the coffee he brought, pursuant to Jeonghan’s very detailed text with instructions. He doesn’t even care for his coffee that complicated— he just wanted to see if Seungcheol would do it. 

“Hi,” Seungcheol stands up when Jeonghan gets closer. He’s wearing slacks and a blue button up shirt, sleeves rolled up to his elbows. There’s a lot of arm happening. 

“Hey. Didn’t expect just you here.” 

“Kid’s with his mom,” Seungcheol laughs. “Perks of having two parents, I guess.” 

Jeonghan’s mouth sours. Of course Shota has a mom— and she’s probably just as lovely as Seungcheol, and really beautiful, and— Seungcheol isn’t wearing a ring. Jeonghan looks when he hands over the coffee. Married people don’t have to wear rings, but Seungcheol seems like the type that would. 

“Here. I hope it’s right— if not, I’ll do better next time,” Seungcheol says. Their fingers brush for a brief second, and Jeonghan feels like a teenager the way his body reacts. 

Not one complaint about how many ingredients Jeonghan asked for, not one comment about how awkward it was to order. Seungcheol just looks at Jeonghan expectantly, like an excited puppy, waiting for him to try his drink. 

Damn it. Jeonghan was almost hoping something would be wrong with the man so he could squash his silly crush before it got worse. 

No luck. 

He takes a drink. “It’s perfect, thank you,” he lies. He doesn’t know what it’s supposed to taste like. It’s the first time he’s gotten it. It was a test.

Seungcheol grins and pretends to wipe sweat from his brow. He picks up his own drink from the ground once they settle in on the bench. 

It’s slightly hot today, despite the clouds in the sky. A little humid. Jeonghan lets his eyes wander. Skirting over Seungcheol’s form where he stares out over the playground, elbows resting on his knees. 

His outfit fits almost too well. Like it’s tailored. Honestly— it must be. Something so simple but so noticeable. Well groomed. Handsome. Loves kids. Strong thighs. Jeonghan could go on. Wonwoo is going to laugh at him.

“So, Jeonghan,” Seungcheol says, sitting back, flexing his arms in front of him casually. Jeonghan’s eyes follow the movement. “What do you do for a living?” 

Jeonghan can’t help but laugh at the obvious fishing. “Are you vetting me to see if I’m a weirdo before you let me around your kid again?” 

“No, of course not,” Seungcheol tries, eyes going wide, hand coming up to defend himself. 

“If I had a kid, that’s what I would do,” Jeonghan raises his eyebrows, taking another drink of his coffee. There really is too much shit in it. He went overboard. 

Seungcheol’s eyes search his face for a few seconds before he gives up. Goes sheepish, shoulders relaxing slightly. “Well— maybe a little. But, I do also really want to say sorry.” 

“You don’t need to say sorry. I already told you,” Jeonghan has to look away, because Seungcheol is too good at eye contact. It’s intense, and warm, like he’s very interested— and it does bad things to Jeonghan’s psyche. “And, I’m an architect. I own a boutique firm— office is a few blocks over, I always stop by on my way home. That’s why I’m here every day.”  

“Oh, wow. That’s so interesting.” 

“It’s really not.” 

“It is!” Seungcheol insists. “I’m in business. Not nearly as exciting.” 

“Much more lucrative, I have to assume.” 

“Touché.” Seungcheol meets Jeonghan’s sideways glance, and smiles wider. Jeonghan is doomed. 

“Listen, I’m not trying to creep on your kid, he just started showing up, and I didn’t know what to do, but I figured it was better for him to be talking to me than wandering around by himself. I don’t have any stakes. I understand if you don’t want him to come back here— that’s probably the smart move.” 

Seungcheol takes a deep breath. He goes to run his hand through his hair, but seems to think better of it at the last second because it’s styled off his face. Jeonghan notices. 

“It’s not that— really. He loves you. Seriously. Usually he gets so bored, and he wanders, and I’m really glad that he’s finally settled down for something, even if it’s ruining your after work walks.” 

“He isn’t ruining them. It’s stupid, but I started to look forward to talking to him. He’s a great kid.” 

Seungcheol’s eyes shine with pride. His chest puffs up slightly. “Yeah. He is, right?”

“Mhm,” Jeonghan’s lips pull up into a smile. He doesn’t want Seungcheol to think he’s laughing at him. He’s just cute. 

“But— regardless— fuck. It’s just hard sometimes. Being a parent.”

“I can imagine.” Jeonghan can’t. But he’s good at empathizing. 

“And I’m so mad at Chan. I really chewed him out, you know? Our friends used to make fun of me for parenting him, too, but— god damn, the kid needs it sometimes.” 

“How old is he?” 

“Twenty six.” 

A surprised laugh escapes from Jeonghan. He covers his mouth when Seungcheol scowls, all pouty and defeated. “Sorry. I’m just imagining him sitting there while you yell at him.” 

Seungcheol scoffs, but a smile is slipping through the cracks. “I don’t yell. I sternly lecture. Sana and I have a good cop bad cop thing— it works well, even on overgrown children like Chan.” 

Ah. Of course. Sana must be the wife. 

At least Seungcheol doesn’t seem to have a problem with queer people. He obviously cares for this Chan idiot. 

“Anyway— I need to get going,” Seungcheol stands up very suddenly, like he’s remembered something. Or, realized something, based on his expression. “Thanks for taking the time.” 

“Thanks for the coffee.” 

“Anytime. You have my number— yeah?” Seungcheol pauses. He laughs awkwardly. “I mean. Right. Anyway. I’m going.” 

“Bye, Seungcheol.” 

“Bye, Jeonghan.” 

Seungcheol trips over his own feet when he starts walking, and then he gives Jeonghan the most pathetic look known to man, ears burning red. 

Unfortunately, Jeonghan is abysmally into it. 

He’s doomed. He hasn’t had a crush on a straight man since college. 

From Seokminnie

Ring ring

Hello?

 

From Jisoo

That’s his way of asking if the dilf had a ring

 

From Seokminnie

Thanks for translating, babe <333 

 

From Jisoo

Anytime, daddy <333 

 

From Jeon Wonwoo

Is it super necessary for me to be in this groupchat? 

 

From Seokminnie

Yes

 

From Jisoo

Yes

 

To Group Chat

No ring, but he mentioned the wife.

She sounds hot. ://

 

From Jisoo

On what grounds???????? 

 

To Group Chat

Idk she just sounds hot ://

 

From Seokminnie

YOU’RE hot.

 

From Jeon Wonwoo

Okay… so it’s over. 

Case closed. 

 

To Group Chat

Who said I can’t have a silly gay crush on a married guy? 

I need some excitement in my life.

 

From Jeon Wonwoo – responded to “Who said I can’t…”

Me. I’m saying that.

 

From Jisoo

I’m not! 

Take a picture of him next time

 

To Group Chat

Do you guys want to hear a bug fact? 

⚘

“I am so, deeply sorry,” Chan says, hitting a ninety degree bow. “I’ve been selfish, and uncaring, and a bad uncle.” 

Jeonghan manages to hold himself together for a good five seconds before he bursts into laughter. The horrified look Chan gives him only makes him laugh harder, hand covering his mouth, trying to push it down. 

“Yah!” Chan complains. 

“I’m so sorry,” Jeonghan snorts, giggles still escaping. “It’s just so obvious that Seungcheol gave you a script. It was a good apology. Really. Even if it’s unnecessary.” 

Chan groans. He takes the few steps left to drop onto the bench. “This is the most embarrassing moment of my life.” 

And, Jeonghan really wanted to hate this kid. He’s spent a month building up Chan’s character in his head— a supervillain of neglectful childcare. But it takes two seconds for all of it to come crashing down. One sad little pout, and well directed puppy-dog eyes, and Jeonghan is just as fond as him as he is Shota. He didn’t stand a chance. He so badly wanted to chew Chan out. 

“I’d have thought that it would have been when you got found out.” 

“That was pretty bad. I almost cried,” Chan slumps down in his seat. 

Jeonghan can’t let him off too easily. He’s got to at least pretend to be put out. Play around a bit. “You really should pay more attention, though. What if I was a creep?” 

“I know,” Chan groans. “I’m stupid. It’s just— Shota is so independent, and he’s really good at taking care of himself. He’s got a panic button on his little watch, because Seungcheol is neurotic, and he never wants to talk to other kids anyway. I figured he was catching bugs, right?” Chan starts getting more into his explanation as he talks. Jeonghan can’t hold back his smile. “And I fucking hate bugs, man. Like, seriously. He always tries to show me them, and I love him, but it’s not for me. But— anyway, this isn’t an excuse. My excuse is that Soonyoung is super hot. Have you seen him? Wait— are you here every day? Do you know if he has a wife? I literally cannot tell, it’s driving me fucking crazy.” 

“All this time and you haven’t asked the man you’re flirting with if he’s in a relationship?” Jeonghan realizes the irony as he says it. But Chan won’t, and that’s what matters. 

“No. I’m trying to seem cool. He’s got a kid, that’s serious, you know?” Chan wheezes. Jeonghan does know. “I need to be cool, calm, and collected.” 

“Are you sure it’s even his kid? Maybe he’s bringing his friend’s kid to the park, too.” 

Chan blows out a low whistle. “I don’t know, man. You should hear how he talks about her. It’s very parental.” 

“Right—” Jeonghan stares at Chan. Chan is sitting with his arms crossed, chewing on his lip. Lost in thought. “How did we get here? I was trying to scold you for not watching your nephew.” 

“Oh, right, sorry,” Chan straightens up. He puts on a deeply serious face. “Go ahead. I deserve it.” 

“Where is he right now?” 

“Oh! He’s with his mom. Not on my schedule today, that’s why Cheol said I should come talk to you.” 

“I’m surprised you didn’t get distracted by the dilf,” Jeonghan nods in the direction of Soonyoung, where he's sitting, watching his kid play. He keeps looking around like he’s missing something. 

“Well, I don’t have a really good excuse to talk to him on days I’m not with Shota,” Chan sighs. “I don’t want him to think I’m a creep.” 

“Ah,” Jeonghan nods sagely. Sure. He gets it. But that doesn’t mean he’s going to let the excuse go. “Right. Okay. I’ll talk to him.” He stands up, straightening out his pants. 

Chan’s face falls. He gets up quickly, acting like he’s going to reach out and grab Jeonghan’s arm, but stops before he makes contact. “What?” 

“I’ll talk to him. I’ll figure out if he has a kid.” 

“You can’t do that,” Chan laughs nervously. He steals a glance over at Soonyoung where he’s sitting near the playground. 

Jeonghan starts walking, an easy pace, because he knows Chan won’t follow him. “I’m pretty sure I can.” 

Sure enough, he doesn’t. He stays frozen in place. Distraught. “Oh god, is this my punishment for being a bad uncle?” 

“Absolutely,” Jeonghan gives him a big smile and a thumbs up before stuffing his hands in his pockets. 

He whistles as he meanders across the park. No rush. He’s on a side quest. 

As soon as his feet hit bark mulch, a child nearly bowls him over. She spins in a circle, narrowly avoiding him, her pigtails flying out around her head. She looks to be a bit younger than Shota. Maybe. Jeonghan still doesn’t know anything about kids— only bugs. 

“Kyujinnie! Please be careful!” Chan’s boyfriend stands up off the bench to shout at her. 

What good fortune. Jeonghan is clearly the matchmaker of the century. 

“Careful, kid,” Jeonghan steadies her with one hand before sending her on her way. She smiles big and toothy at him. Cute.  

God. What is happening to him? 

“I’m so sorry about that,” Soonyoung runs a hand through his hair, meeting Jeonghan halfway. “She’s got so much energy.” 

“Ah, no worries. I know how it is,” Jeonghan crosses his arms, trying to play the part of experienced child-carer, or something. Isn’t this how dads stand? He watches Kyujin zip around the playground, laughing maniacally as she goes. “Is she yours?” 

“No,” Soonyoung exhales, smiling thankfully. His shoulders slump a bit. “My sister’s. I’m just her uncle.” 

“Right, right, good,” Jeonghan nods. “And are you single?” 

Soonyoung blinks. His grin falls. Genuinely confused. He and Chan will be good together. “Uh, yes?”  

Jeonghan pats his shoulder. “Cool. You should tell Chan that.” 

“I— sorry?” Soonyoung shakes his head slightly. “Who are you?” 

“Ah,” Jeonghan digs his toe into the dirt, already taking his first step. He gives Soonyoung one last look. “Shota’s imaginary friend.”

Whatever spluttered noises Soonyoung is making are not Jeonghan’s problem anymore. 

He picks up the pace on his way out, taking in big lungfuls of air. 

He’s had enough fresh air for today. No reason to stick around if he isn’t learning about bugs, he supposes. 

⚘

Shota doesn’t reappear until the next Monday, and when he does, he’s attached to Chan’s hand and full of energy. 

“Jeonghan!” he squeals, shaking himself free of Chan to hurry over to the bench. He tackles Jeonghan into a tiny bear hug before clambering to his side of the bench. “I missed you.” 

“Woah— missed you too, kid.” 

“Shota! We need to ask people before we hug them— remember?” 

“Sorry,” Shota says. He doesn’t sound sorry at all. Jeonghan has to swallow a laugh. 

Chan sighs. His hands are on his hips. He’s chewing on his bottom lip. 

Jeonghan glances over towards the playground. Soonyoung is sitting in his usual spot, all alone. 

“Go on, then, Channie,” Jeonghan nods towards him. “Shoo.” 

“I— but—” Chan blinks, and shakes his head slightly. He looks towards Soonyoung, and then back at Jeonghan. To Shota. “I’m being better.” 

“Yeah, but now everyone knows who I am, and I’m not going to let him leave my sight for the next thirty minutes until it’s time to leave. So, go,” Jeonghan waves his hands. “I know Seungcheol gave you my number.” 

Chan bites his lip again. He turns around, staring longingly towards Soonyoung. “Yeah. He did.” 

“Okay. Go. You’ll be able to see us from there. You didn’t go through all that trouble just to give up.” 

Honestly, Jeonghan is just a little nosy. He knows that Chan hasn’t spoken to Soonyoung since Jeonghan did. He kind of wants to watch it play out from afar. It’s like his own personal drama. (And, maybe he’s got a soft spot for Chan already). 

Chan’s shoulder’s slump. He steps forward and grabs both of Jeonghan’s hands in his. “Thank you,” he says, full of emotion. 

Yeah, Jeonghan has a soft spot for him. It’s fine. 

He laughs when Chan hurries away, only to change his gait to seem more put together when he gets close enough for Soonyoung to notice him. 

“Is Uncle Chan going to get a boyfriend too?” Shota asks. His lip is curled up in outright disgust. 

“Maybe. You have a problem with that?” 

Shota sighs. He rolls his eyes in a very dramatic fashion. “All of my uncles have boyfriends. I hate it.” 

That’s an interesting tidbit of information. Surely, the chance of Seungcheol being the only straight man in a gaggle of gays is— 

What the fuck is Jeonghan even thinking? He’s lost his fucking mind. 

“Why?” he chokes out instead. 

“Because,” Shota says, acting like Jeonghan has seriously put him out by having him explain. “I don’t have a boyfriend.” 

“You’re a little young.” 

“That’s not really the point, Jeonghan,” Shota states, mouth pressed into a line, looking at Jeonghan all seriously. 

Jeonghan covers his laugh with a cough. Says, “Well, I don’t have a boyfriend either. So, we’re even.” 

Shota doesn’t seem convinced. “Do you have a girlfriend, though?” 

“God, no.” 

“Uncle Jihoon and Uncle Mingyu went on a date to the zoo, and they went to the bug house, and I wasn’t allowed to come with them because it was a date.” 

“Ah,” Jeonghan nods. “I see your problem now.” 

“Yeah,” Shota huffs. “And Uncle Mingyu doesn’t even like bugs. He told me so. That’s why he won’t take me to the zoo by himself.” 

Jeonghan lets out a low whistle. “That’s rough, kid.” 

In the distance, Chan is leaning into Soonyoung on the bench. They’re both smiling. It’s too far to see if any blushing is going on, but Jeonghan has a good feeling. 

He holds his breath when Chan brings his hand up, and brushes something off of Soonyoung’s cheek. Soonyoung smiles so hard the energy radiates across the park. “That’s my boy,” Jeonghan mutters to himself. 

Shota starts patting his leg, trying to get his attention. 

“What’s up, kid?” 

He doesn’t stop until Jeonghan tears his eyes away from Soonyoung and Chan. 

“Do you want to learn about centipedes?” 

Jeonghan takes a breath. He re-focuses his attention. Shifts his weight to face Shota more fully. “Yeah. I really do.” 

⚘

And then Seungcheol starts coming by on Fridays. 

“I decided to take over at the end of the week. I’m my own boss, so I deserve a little break, don’t I?” 

“Are you asking me or telling me,” Jeonghan stares at him. At the way his chest swells under the fabric of his shirt. Obscene. 

“Uh, telling. I’m telling you.” Seungcheol isn’t even holding onto Shota anymore. Shota has taken his seat on the bench, legs swinging below him, neon green sneakers going back and forth. He’s looking up at his dad in the same way Jeonghan is. 

“So, are you going to hang out with us, or just awkwardly stand there?” Jeonghan smirks.

“Yeah. Are you going to hang out with us or just stand there?” Shota repeats. 

“Oh, Christ, you two are a dangerous pair, aren’t you?” Seungcheol scratches his neck. He picks Shota up and forcibly moves him closer to Jeonghan so he can sit on the other side of the bench. A safe distance away.

Shota completely ignores his dad. He shoves his bangs from his face, and says, “Jeonghan, I started going to dance class.” 

“No way.” 

“Yes way,” Shota smiles. 

He pushes his hair from his face once more before Seungcheol intervenes, sweeping it all up in his hands and pulling a hair tie off his wrist to secure it off his head. An easy motion. He probably does it all the time— that’s so… hot of him. 

Jeonghan has a problem.

Shota’s mouth twists up into a stilted frown. “But, I don’t know if the other kids like me that much.” 

“I’m sure they like you, kid. What’s not to like?” 

“They’re all older than me.” 

“It’s because you got bumped up a class, bug,” Seungcheol chimes in. “You’re very talented.” 

“Uncle Jun is my teacher, by the way,” Shota soldiers on. 

The way he seems content to ignore everything Seungcheol says is so endlessly amusing to Jeonghan. Seungcheol doesn’t even mind, he just throws his arm over the back of the bench and shakes his head fondly. 

“Uncle Jun is really good at dancing, so that’s why I’m the best. Because he’s my teacher.” 

“That’s a new uncle. Never heard of that one.” 

“He has a lot of uncles,” Seungcheol says.

“Are you running an uncle farm? Or…” 

“Something like that,” Seungcheol laughs. An addictive sound. Jeonghan wants to get used to it. “I was just always the oldest and the most financially secure. Once you have one, they tend to flock.” 

“All of my uncles came over last night,” Shota boasts. He’s very proud of his uncles. It’s very, very sweet. 

“Awesome.” 

“It was awesome.” Shota pauses for a moment. He looks Jeonghan up and down. Turns to his dad and does the same. Announces, “No offense, dad, but Jeonghan is a lot prettier than you.” 

Jeonghan almost chokes. 

Seungcheol pushes his tongue into his cheek. He looks at Jeonghan over Shota’s head. Sighs. “Yeah. I can’t argue with that.” 

Jeonghan almost chokes again. “Sorry?” 

“Honesty is the best policy,” Shota pokes Jeonghan’s leg. 

“Seungkwan and Mingyu were having an ego trip and got him onto this game where he ranks all of my friends on how handsome they are,” Seungcheol explains. “He put literally everyone over me. But you’re the only one I’ll concede on.” 

Again— the almost choking. Jeonghan laughs, and it’s a little strangled. “Please be serious.” 

Seungcheol makes eye contact. Warm and intense and all too much. “I’m serious.” 

What the fuck is that? 

Does he mean that he’s serious about the situation? Or that Jeonghan is pretty? Handsome? Whatever the fuck it is. What is going on? This man has a wife. A wife. He’s so naturally flirty, and completely comfortable in his masculinity— and he says shit like that so casually, but then gets a tiny bit of color in his cheeks afterwards. 

“Jeonghan is at the top of the list,” Shota announces. 

“Wow,” Jeonghan breaks whatever the fuck is going on between he and Seungcheol, looking at Shota instead. “Thank you.” 

“Mingyu is going to want to have a word with you,” Seungcheol snickers. 

“I can take him.” 

Seungcheol’s eyes flick down the length of him. They linger, and Jeonghan kind of feels like he’s been set on fire. “Nah. Sorry— you really couldn’t.” 

“The man is afraid of bugs and can’t ride a bike.” 

“How do you know that?” 

Shota raises his hand. “I told him.” 

“Of course,” Seungcheol says. 

“Of course,” Shota repeats. 

“Would you believe me if I told you your kid is the most normal friend I have?” Jeonghan asks.

Seungcheol hums. “Somehow, yes— you do give that vibe.” 

Before Jeonghan can argue, Shota is stealing his attention again, “Did you know that ticks are arachnids?” 

⚘

Jeonghan starts looking forward to Fridays, because his body cannot keep up with the fact that he’s not allowed to have Seungcheol. 

To be fair, it’s kind of hard when Seungcheol is so naturally flirty, and attentive, and easy to look at. 

It’s a very confusing array of facts. 

Today, Seungcheol says Jeonghan’s hair looks pretty, even though Jeonghan just has it half up because it’s getting too long. He tries to argue with Seungcheol about just that— but Seungcheol only doubles down. “No, it really suits you. It frames your face— and your face is just— wow. Really, Jeonghan. Leave some for the rest of us.” 

Jeonghan blushes and waves Seungcheol off, and against his better judgment, says, “Like you have room to talk.” 

Seungcheol grins. “Are you calling me handsome?”

“You know you’re handsome, Seungcheol.” 

“I—” 

And then Shota’s watch beeps, and the kid finally looks up from where he’s been scrolling through his camera roll (which is all just pictures of bugs), and Seungcheol says, “Hey— do you want to go get coffee with us?” 

There’s a lot going on. Jeonghan’s brain is taking a second to catch up, but his body is speaking for him, “What about his show?” 

Seungcheol shrugs. “The cafe has wifi, and I brought his headphones.” 

Jeonghan shouldn’t. He shouldn’t. He’s been flirting with a married man for, like, four weeks now. It’s not good for him. 

“Yeah, sure. That would be nice.” 

Fuck.

Shota insists on holding Jeonghan’s hand all the way there. He’s skipping happily, bouncing on the balls of his feet, talking Jeonghan’s ear off about whatever comes to his mind. It’s a lot of insect facts, but he’s also been really enjoying dance class lately. Uncle Jun is threatening Uncle Chan’s place at the top of the hierarchy— Jeonghan can feel it coming. 

“Do you want what I got you last time?” Seungcheol softly touches Jeonghan’s upper back when they get inside, hovering near the back of the line. 

Jeonghan does a great job of staying chill. He doesn’t even flinch away from Seungcheol’s hand in shock. “I can buy my own coffee.” 

“Jeonghan, please—” Seungcheol really touches him then. He lays his hand on Jeonghan’s shoulder. Warm and steady. “I have a lot of money and nothing much to do with it besides buying documentaries about bugs. Let me buy you coffee.” 

God, Jeonghan is going to hell for the litany of thoughts that run through his head— most of them revolving around how he didn’t think Seungcheol could get even more perfect. How he’s always surprised when he does. 

“Fine,” he says. “But just black, please. Iced.” 

“Got it. Why don’t you two find a table.” 

Shota takes the lead on that. He decides on a booth in the back corner, and insists that Jeonghan sit next to him before sliding his tablet across the table to ask Jeonghan to get him connected to wifi. 

As soon as his headphones are on, it’s like Jeonghan doesn’t exist. He’s completely engrossed, clicking around as he finds whatever video he’s waiting for. Jeonghan doesn’t know how it works. 

To Group Chat 

Help me. 

I agreed to get coffee with Seungcheol. 

At my funeral, tell everyone I died doing what I loved.

 

From Jeon Wonwoo

Pathetically pining?

 

To Group Chat 

No.

Asshole. 

Spending time with a gorgeous man. 

 

From Jeon Wonwoo

That seems a little disingenuous to the situation, no?

 

From Jisoo

I gotchu Hannie.

Wonwoo won’t be allowed near the pulpit at your funeral. 

 

To Group Chat

Ew, why would there be a pulpit at my funeral? 

 

From Seokminnie 

He literally wants to be buried at sea, guys. 

Keep up. 

“Black coffee, iced,” Seungcheol sets down Jeonghan’s drink with a smile, sliding into the other side of the booth. 

He has his own drink too, and he presents Shota with a cake pop, but the kid could care less. Too focused on his video. He doesn’t bother to interrupt further. Jeonghan can’t imagine that Shota would enjoy it if he did, anyway. 

“I was going to flex that I remembered your order,” Seungcheol says. “But you asked for something else.” 

“You did not remember my order.” 

“I did!” Seungcheol insists, smacking his hand on the table. “It was a carmel macchiato, add three pumps of hazelnut, add—”

“Okay— that’s— I believe you. Please don’t continue.” Jeonghan reaches helplessly across the table, not quite touching Seungcheol, because he doesn’t want to cross any lines he shouldn’t. “That isn’t actually my order. I was just testing you.”  

Seungcheol’s jaw drops, brows stitching together. “Testing me?” 

“Yeah,” Jeonghan attempts to soothe him with an apologetic smile. “I had a boyfriend once who would always complain whenever anyone asked for anything more than just black coffee— and it was annoying. I felt like that was a good judge of character going forward. And it is, by the way.” 

“God, I can’t believe it,” Seungcheol slumps into his seat, fussing with his hair. “And I was all ready to show off. This is embarrassing.” 

“Arguably, more embarrassing for me. I didn’t think you’d be buying me coffee again.” 

“You’re my son's favorite imaginary friend. Of course I would.” 

Jeonghan hides his smile in his drink. He tries to distract himself by looking at Shota’s screen, but whatever is happening on there is a lot of legs and wings, and Jeonghan isn’t brave enough for that. 

“So— what was your judge of my character, then?” Seungcheol taps his fingers on the table, almost restless. 

“Oh, you passed. Obviously. Flying colors. Good job!” 

“Phew,” Seungcheol breathes. His teeth catch on his bottom lip when he smiles, eyes a bit unfocused when he says, “I— uh— hope your current boyfriend is kinder about the coffee thing.” 

Jeonghan’s nose wrinkles up. “I don’t have a boyfriend.” 

“God— sorry— that was super invasive of me,” Seungcheol hurries to explain himself. As if he ever needs an explanation for Jeonghan to give him more. 

Jeonghan is doomed. It’s well established. 

“No, don’t worry about it. We’re friends, aren’t we? Or is that imaginary too?” 

Seungcheol’s cheeks are pink when he manages to look Jeonghan in the eye again. Offers an embarrassed smile. “Yeah. Friends. Of course.” 

“Good. Then you should know that my life is very mundane. Not very exciting. I go to the park to get fresh air, like a dog.” 

“But your most normal friend is a six year old who’s way too obsessed with bugs. So that has to count for something.” 

“Sure. For something.” 

“I like mundane, Jeonghan,” Seungcheol says, his voice dropping a note lower. It’s almost too serious. Like he’s suggesting more. He snaps out of it a second later. Smiles brightly, “I have a six year old that’s too obsessed with bugs. Sitting at the park with you on Fridays has become my favorite part of the week.” 

“Oh,” Jeonghan sucks his teeth, shaking his head slightly. “That’s really, really sad, Seungcheol.” 

“I know. But it’s true.” He’s beaming ear to ear. 

Jeonghan’s heart skips a beat. And then another. 

It might be time for desperate measures. 

⚘

“I think I need to get over my dad crush.” 

“Amazing,” Jisoo drags Jeonghan into his apartment. “I was waiting for this moment. We need to get you laid.” 

The magic words. Jisoo loves nothing more than dressing someone up and presenting them on a platter for the taking. He’s good at it. He and Jeonghan used to do this every weekend, before Seokmin showed up and ruined their fun. 

Jeonghan lets himself be made up. He lets himself be styled. Lets Jisoo undo a few too many of his buttons. He lets himself be pulled out with the promise of a cab waiting on the street. 

“Good luck!” Seokmin shouts from the couch as they leave. “Get some dick, Jeonghan!” 

Maybe Jeonghan does need to get laid. Truly, it’s been almost a year since he slept with anyone. 

There were a few one off dates in between, but none of them led anywhere. He’s too old and tired to be dealing with one night stands most of the time. But, most of the time he’s not this desperate. 

Maybe he’s so attracted to Seungcheol because he’s touch starved. Maybe his body is just looking for something warm and strong to latch onto. A lizard on a rock. He can fix it by finding someone new. 

Jisoo promises that this pretentious little wine bar in the arts district will do the job. A hotbed for hookups— full of the type of artsy fuckheads that love casual. 

And, sure, it’s nice. Jisoo knows the bartender— he talks to her like they’re old friends. Jeonghan wouldn’t doubt if they were. She discounts their drinks and gives them a pretty wink. 

Jeonghan is becoming a lightweight. He and Jisoo used to do this so much, and they’re both competitive enough to try to drink each other under the table. But they’ve slowed down now. Clearly. Jisoo is practically married— though he and Seokmin won’t admit it— and Jeonghan is tipsy off of two glasses of wine. 

“How about that guy?” Jisoo tips his glass in the direction of a tall, gangly guy standing near the door. 

He’s fine. Handsome enough. He has big hands. But, “No. I don’t like him.” 

Jisoo rolls his eyes. “What do you like? I’m starting to think you’re not in it to win it, Jeonghan.” 

“Eh,” Jeonghan tips back the rest of his drink. “I’ll know it when I see it.” 

“Let me guess,” Jisoo calls over the bartender again. Orders another round. “He’s strong… and he’s responsible… and he has a literal wife and child. Am I getting closer?” 

Jeonghan makes a noncommittal noise. “I’m not super tied to the last two, but the rest is a must.” 

“God help us. Sooyoung, can you please get us a round of shots, too? Vodka, please.” 

She salutes, dipping below the counter to complete the request. 

“Why do you have shot glasses at a wine bar?” Jeonghan asks, studying the glass she provides. It’s got a chip in it. 

“Because of sad freaks like you two,” she says. 

Jeonghan can’t argue with that. He takes what he’s given. 

“How about that guy?” Jisoo still hasn’t given up.

“No.” 

“You didn’t even look at him.” 

“I just know.” 

“God damn you, Yoon Jeonghan.” 

It’s not like Jeonghan enjoys being difficult. 

Well— actually— he does a lot of the time. But he’s not trying to tonight. He’s just not feeling it. 

He’s fully drunk by midnight. Swaying in his seat a bit. Jisoo is finally getting tired of him— he’s started complaining about work instead of pointing men out. It’s dire. 

“I’m going to pee. Please attempt to try to talk to someone who isn’t a lesbian by the time I come back,” Jisoo says, slamming his hand on the bartop and pointedly glaring at Sooyoung. 

Jeonghan rolls his eyes into his head. 

To be fair, he’s been trying. It’s just that no one has caught his attention. He’s been doing a great job of not thinking about Seungcheol at all, actually. He’s too busy judging how other men aren’t up to his standards to think about Seungcheol. 

Too tall. Too thin. Eyes aren’t friendly enough. Hair isn’t accidentally yet artfully disheveled enough. Etcetera. 

He puts his chin in his hand, staring down the length of the bar. At the very end, with his back to Jeonghan, there’s a man talking on the phone. All broad shoulders and wavy hair. Enough to twist fingers into. He looks like he could toss Jeonghan around a bit. That’s another thing he likes. 

This man might do it. Jisoo is going to be so proud when he comes back to see Jeonghan in a stranger’s lap. Jeonghan hopes this guy is into men. 

Just as the man puts down his phone, and just as Jeonghan opens his mouth to ask Sooyoung to send a drink down, Seungcheol turns around. 

Seungcheol turns around. It bears repeating, because Jeonghan’s life is so, unbearably stupid sometimes. 

Sitting at the end of the bar, all by himself, wearing a sweater that hugs his body in all the right places. He looks over as Jeonghan is gawking. Looks away, and then does a double take. 

Jeonghan doesn’t know if he’ll ever be able to get the smile Seungcheol gives him out of his head. It’ll be stuck forever, on repeat. Bright and beautiful. 

Seungcheol gets up, and then he’s sliding into Jisoo’s empty seat, and saying, “Hannie, funny running into you here.” His eyes are dark, and they’re sticking to Jeonghan’s chest where his shirt is undone. His tongue is running over his lips. “You look— I mean— stunning. Yeah. Stunning.” 

Jeonghan is drunk, and he’s hot all over, and god, Seungcheol is so fucking sexy. 

“Thanks. I should say the same to you,” he bats his eyelashes on accident. (He’s drunk!) And then he overcorrects, “Is it date night? Is your wife in the bathroom?” 

Seungcheol stares at him. “What?” 

“Your wife. Where is she?” 

“I was here with Minghao, but he just went home—” 

“Oh, so she’s watching Shota. That’s nice of her. She’s probably lovely.” 

“Jeonghan, slow down. What are you talking about?” 

“Your wife,” Jeonghan repeats slower. “You know— the woman you married.” 

Seungcheol squeezes his eyes shut. Laughs incredulously. “I don’t have a wife, Jeonghan.” 

Oh. “Oh.” 

“Shota’s mom and I were never married— and we’re not together now. We just co-parent. We’re friends.” 

Oh. “Oh.” 

“You thought I was married this entire time? I don’t have a ring.” 

“Married people don’t need a ring.” 

“Well— if I were married I would want one,” Seungcheol says like it’s obvious. 

Jeonghan guesses it is— because Seungcheol seems like the type. 

“So— no wife— no girlfriend…” 

“No,” Seungcheol says. “Not last I checked. No boyfriend, either. Just to, like, keep it all straight. Or, not straight, I guess.” 

“What is wrong with you?” Jeonghan breathes. He doesn’t mean for it to come out accusatory, but it does anyways. 

Seungcheol laughs again. He glows when he smiles. Jeonghan swears he can see it coming off of him. “Excuse me?” 

“You can’t just be, like— perfect— and then not have a wife.” 

“I—” Seungcheol runs a hand through his hair. Jeonghan loves when he does that. “How much have you had to drink?” 

“Not enough, surely.” 

“Oh my god!” Jisoo picks just that moment to reappear. “You actually did what I told you to!” 

“Oh—” Seungcheol turns around. A look of horror passes over his face. “Are you here on a date?” 

“God, no,” Jeonghan snorts. 

Jisoo puts a hand on Seungcheol’s head. He’s really drunk too. “It happened once in college, and it will never happen again.” 

“Jisoo, this is Seungcheol,” Jeonghan says. “He doesn’t have a wife.” 

“Oh my god!” Jisoo says again with even more passion. “How lucky is it to find another one with the same name but without a wife!” 

Jeonghan waves his hands in the air, trying to get Jisoo to stop talking to no avail. “No— this is Seungcheol. Seungcheol, Seungcheol. Shota’s dad, Seungcheol.” 

“I am Seungcheol,” Seungcheol says. He looks completely lost, but he’s got the spirit. 

“And you have no wife?” Jisoo squints. 

“No. Never have.” 

“Oh, so did you pump and dump… or…?” 

“No— Jesus, Sana and I are friends— why am I explaining this multiple times tonight? What is going on?” 

“Alright,” Jisoo nods, satisfied. “Sounds good to me. You can handle getting Jeonghan home, right? I called a cab. I’m tired.” 

“I can take myself home—” Jeonghan knows he’s not going to be able to finish as soon as he starts speaking. 

“No you can't,” Jisoo snips at the same moment Seungcheol looks at him with his big, brown eyes and says, “It’s no problem, Hannie. Let me take you home.” 

Jisoo starts making faces over Seungcheol’s head. Some dramatic rendition— pointing at his ring finger, pretending to be scream in excitement, mouthing words too fast for Jeonghan to keep up with. 

All his brain is playing on repeat is no wife, no wife, no wife. 

All his brain is playing on repeat when they all manage to get outside is no wife, no wife, no wife. 

All his brain is playing on repeat when Jisoo gets into his cab, and throws them a wink is no wife, no wife, no wife. 

“Where exactly do you live?” Seungcheol asks. Jeonghan sways on his feet, taken off guard, and Seungcheol’s hands find his waist. Keeping him upright. “Woah, careful.” 

“I’m just a few blocks away. We can walk.” 

“Okay, sure. Can you walk without falling over?” Seungcheol challenges. He hasn’t stopped smiling since they got up. It’s doing things to Jeonghan. 

Fuck— Jeonghan is so drunk. He decides that the only course forward is attaching himself to Seungcheol’s bicep. That way he won’t get distracted by his eyes, and he’ll be able to keep himself standing while they move. 

“I’m so good at walking.” 

Seungcheol laughs. No wife, no wife, no wife. “Okay. Let's go.” 

They walk slowly, but it’s not annoying. A midnight stroll. That’s what Jeonghan will tell himself. 

“Where is Shota?” 

“He’s with his mom. She has him for about a week every month, depending on her schedule.” 

“Oh,” Jeonghan draws out the word without meaning to. Everything is coming together. “She works a lot?” 

“Yeah. She works overseas, mostly. But she’s great. She calls him all the time, and she never misses her weeks.” 

“She sounds great.” 

“She is. Really. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to do it with— all things considered.” 

Jeonghan doesn’t have any right to be jealous, but he’s drunk— and, god, he’s jealous of anyone that has ever had Seungcheol’s attention. “Why did you break up, then?” 

“Damn,” Seungcheol exhales. “Right to the point.” 

“I’m curious about you, Cheollie,” Jeonghan coos. He goes to poke Seuncheol’s cheek, finding it flushed red. Seungcheol lets him anyway. No wife! 

“I don’t do well with change, let’s just say that. It scares me. She’s very spontaneous.” 

“Do I scare you?” 

Jeonghan meant it as a lighthearted joke, but Seungcheol falters a bit. He looks over, arm flexing underneath Jeonghan’s hold. Takes a breath. “You scare me plenty, Jeonghan.” 

“Did you know that fruit flies freeze when they’re scared? They just quit flying.” 

Seungcheol lets out a surprised laugh. Flustered, maybe. “I didn’t know that.” 

“Well, they do,” Jeonghan leans his head down onto Seungcheol’s shoulder. He’s drunk. “Sorry, I’m really drunk. I can’t believe you don’t have a wife.” 

“Why would you think I have a wife?” 

“I just assumed.” 

“I’ve been cutting out of work to hang out with you every week.” 

“So?” 

“So, I wouldn’t do that if I had a wife. I’ll tell you that much.” 

“The innate homoeroticism of sitting on a park bench with your kid’s imaginary friend,” Jeonghan sighs. When Seungcheol tries to say something else, Jeonghan shushes him with a finger to his lips. “No need, Cheol. I get it. No wife. We’re on the same page now.” 

“Good,” Seungcheol says. He’s smiling beneath Jeonghan’s finger. Jeonghan can feel it. 

The rest of the walk is quiet, but not uncomfortable. Just a block and a half. They really were close— mostly because Jisoo insisted on picking a place Jeonghan could take someone home from. It sort of worked out. 

“Shota is going to be so jealous that I saw you without him.” 

“He’ll see me on Monday. It’s only fair.” 

“Tell him that,” Seungcheol’s hand lingers at Jeonghan’s arm. He’s not really holding him up anymore, just keeping him company. Jeonghan doesn’t mind at all. 

“Goodnight, Seungcheol,” he says. He leans in before he can think better of it, pressing a kiss to Seungcheol’s cheek. “Thank you for walking me home.” 

Seungcheol takes his surprise in stride. He blinks a few times. Squeezes Jeonghan’s arm. And that stupidly blinding smile is back. “Anytime.” 

“Text me when you get home.” 

“I will.” 

Jeonghan backs into the door of his building, fumbling with the handle. “Okay. See you on Friday.” 

“Friday,” Seungcheol nods. “With a black coffee. Iced.” 

“Right. Very impressive.” Jeonghan finally gets the door open, shooting Seungcheol a big thumbs up. “You’re so good at remembering coffee orders.” 

“Get inside.” 

“Alright.” 

And Jeonghan does. He makes his way to the elevator, and closes his eyes as it whirs up. He keys in the code to his door and kicks his shoes off in the entry. 

No wife, no wife, no wife. 

Incredible. 

He had one goal tonight— get over Seungcheol. He definitely didn’t complete that goal— but— still. Crisis averted!

Jeonghan falls into his bed with a lovesick little giggle. He’s fucking giddy over a man that’s probably not even that into him. 

But, Seungcheol isn’t married. He’s got no wife. He’s single. 

Sure, he’s a literal father. Responsible for raising a tiny human for the next however many years. He openly admitted that he and Sana didn’t work out because he’s not great at change, and Jeonghan would certainly be a major change. He’s not that spontaneous, though. His life is mundane. Seungcheol likes mundane. 

But— like— more importantly— Seungcheol isn’t married. It feels very important that he’s not married. Jeonghan is drunk, god damnit! He can’t be trusted with thinking too hard.

Crisis pivoted, at the very least. And that feels like a win. 

⚘

Monday, Wednesday. 

The days Shota and Chan are at the park. 

The days Shota sits next to Jeonghan on his bench, and talks Jeonghan’s ear off while Chan flirts with a man that does not have a child of his own, but who does take care of his niece sometimes.

Jeonghan has been hanging out with a random kid at the park for like, three months straight. 

Friday. 

The day Seungcheol comes to the park with his kid. 

The day Jeonghan tries not to fall to pieces as he and Seungcheol toe an invisible line in the dirt. Never quite getting further than flirtatious remarks or slight touches before Seungcheol backs down again. 

It’s becoming painful. Even Shota has grown tired of hanging out with them on Fridays. He started searching for bugs in the grass a bit away from them instead. 

Jeonghan was hoping that things would be a little bit clearer after the wine bar. And they are— just— not as much as he needs them to be. 

But, what is Jeonghan even expecting? What would come from being with Seungcheol? A kid? Is he ready for that? No. Probably not. Not that he’d be doing it alone, obviously. And maybe it’s crazy to even think that far ahead. He’s going insane. 

Today is a Monday, though. So, Chan dropped Shota off at the bench and went to sit with his boyfriend(?). Everyone’s a bit unclear on that part. Shota doesn’t know either. 

“Uncle Jun is my favorite uncle now,” Shota says with a big sigh. He sighs a lot lately. Jeonghan thinks maybe it’s one of those things Shota is picking up from him. It definitely looks cuter on a kid, that’s for sure.  

“Wow— big news. What changed?” 

Another sigh. “Uncle Jun is really good in dance class. Uncle Chan just does gym class. That is not as cool.”

“Woof,” Jeonghan says, shaking his head.

“Woof,” Shota repeats, shaking his head in exactly the same way. 

Jeonghan can’t help but smile. He really fucking digs this kid. Shota is great. He wouldn’t even mind having a kid if the kid was Shota. 

“Good for Uncle Jun. Happy for him.”

Shota pulls his knees to his chest, playing with his fingers in his lap. Jeonghan can only imagine the worlds that live in his head. It’s kind of incredible. 

“You’d be my favorite uncle if you were my uncle, by the way,” Shota says without looking up. 

Jeonghan almost wants to cry. He’s getting emotional over the random kid he met in the park. His friend, Choi Shota. “You can call me uncle if you want.” 

Shota pulls a disgusted face. “I don’t want to. You’re just Jeonghan. It’s more special.” 

“Alright, sure. Whatever makes you happy, bug.” 

The nickname slips. Jeonghan doesn’t mean to, but he does. Shota doesn’t flinch. He just launches into a new topic. His favorite types of beetles. A comprehensive list. 

⚘

On Wednesday, Shota says, “My dad wants you to come over this weekend.” 

⚘

On Friday, Seungcheol says, “That little brat— he totally ratted me out. I told him to invite you, not tell on me.” 

“So I am invited?” 

“Obviously. Don’t you want to meet the uncle flock?” 

Jeonghan does.

⚘

On Saturday, Jisoo does Jeonghan up like he’s going hunting for men. 

“I’m not going to get any tonight, Jisoo. The man will barely touch me without apologizing.” 

“I don’t care,” Jisoo tells him. 

When he leaves, Wonwoo yells at him from the couch, “Don’t get pregnant! I’m too young to be an uncle!” 

⚘

Seungcheol and Shota live in a walk up in one of the old money neighborhoods downtown. 

Jeonghan tried not to gag when he’s sent the address. The property is gorgeous— straight out of one of Jeonghan’s wet dreams. (He started having those about real estate the second he hit thirty). 

He hears Shota screaming as soon as he rings the doorbell, closely followed by a man’s voice telling him to slow down. 

The door flies open. “Hi, Jeonghan!” Shota beams. 

There’s a guy standing behind him, towering over him, just as excited as he is. “Hi, Jeonghan!” he says. 

Jeonghan’s not crazy— but he is a little bit. He made Seungcheol give him the uncle rundown. Jeonghan studied. He wants to make a good impression. 

By his powers of deduction, this must be Mingyu. Tall, handsome, excitable. He’s like a puppy, Shota will never need to ask me for one, Seungcheol said, nauseatingly lovingly. 

“Mingyu, right?” 

Mingyu blossoms. “Yes! It’s so good to finally meet you.” 

“Excuse me, Uncle Mingyu,” Shota interrupts, smacking Mingyu’s thigh. “Jeonghan is my friend.” 

“Oh, I’m sorry, my apologies, sir,” Mingyu switches his mood according to Shota’s game without pause. He bows, steps out of the way and lets Jeonghan come in. 

The house is exactly how Jeonghan would expect of Seungcheol. It’s very them. Organized chaos. Pictures on the walls. Lots of neon green clothes and shoes strewn about, hung over chairs, or railings, or wherever. Very homely. These people have that kind of way about them, he supposes. It’s only natural. 

Shota takes ahold of his arm and starts speed running him through introductions— only after Mingyu suggests that he let Jeonghan meet everyone before he shows him the gift Jihoon got him. 

“That’s Uncle Hansol and Uncle Seungkwan,” Shota points to two guys sitting much too close on the couch. 

The one gets all excited about Jeonghan being there (that must be Seungkwan), but the other holds him still. Jeonghan thinks he hears Seungkwan say something like, “I understand why Seungcheol won’t shut up.” Jeonghan chooses to ignore that for his own peace. 

“Uncle Jihoon is over there. And Uncle Myungho is there. And this is Uncle Junnie, he’s my dance teacher.” 

Jeonghan shakes hands with Junhui, because he’s close enough for it to be reasonable. “I’ve heard a lot about you. You’re topping the uncle charts lately.” 

“I’ve heard a lot about you,” Junhui returns. “You’re topping the Seungcheol charts.” 

“I wasn’t aware I was in the running.” 

“Why are we still shaking hands?” 

“I don’t know.” 

Junhui laughs. He shoots Jeonghan a finger gun before slinking off in another direction. 

Shota drags Jeonghan into the hall. He tells Jeonghan that Uncle Chan is bringing his new boyfriend, but he hasn’t decided if Soonyoung has reached uncle status yet. 

Jeonghan is just glad that he’s not the only new face. Actually— everyone seems much more occupied with Soonyoung’s appearance than his. 

The hall spits them out into the kitchen. Seungcheol is standing in front of the sink, washing dishes. His sleeves are rolled up above his elbows again— because of course they are. 

“And this is my dad. That’s everyone!” Shota says, already turning to leave. 

“Woah, slow it down, bug,” Seungcheol whistles, making Shota stop in his tracks. He smiles, then, turning his attention to Jeonghan. “Hannie, you’re here.” 

There goes Jeonghan’s stomach again. And his chest. Anything that could get all twisted up does. “I’m here.” 

Seungcheol shakes his hands off in the sink, shuts off the faucet. He stares a bit too long where Jeonghan’s sweater is slipping off his shoulder. Just like Jisoo planned it. “You look pretty,” Seungcheol says. He stumbles over himself— “I mean. Good. You look nice. Thanks for coming.” 

“I can look pretty if you want me to, Seungcheol.” 

“It’s not that I want you to, it’s just that you do— Sorry. I shouldn’t be—” 

Shota clears his throat. He stands up straight, eyebrows raised as high as possible. It’s the facial expression he uses when he’s very impatient. “May I please show Jeonghan the present Uncle Jihoon got me?” 

God. What a cockblock kids are. 

The worst part is, Jeonghan isn’t even mad about it. He laughs— and it’s painfully genuine— because he cares too much for this random kid he met at the park, who’s not even a random kid anymore.

“Yep,” Seungcheol says, flush crawling up his neck. “Good idea. Go on, then.” 

Jeonghan catches his eye just long enough to wink before he’s whisked away. 

Jihoon brought Shota a bag full of exoskeletons. 

It’s disgusting. Really, really gross. Shota is absolutely fucking delighted about it, and that makes Jeonghan happy about exoskeletons, for some ungodly reason. He didn’t think it was possible for him to think fondly upon exoskeletons. 

He only gets a break when Chan and Soonyoung show up. Shota quickly becomes engrossed with showing them his exoskeletons, and rattling off an incredible number of bug facts to a very confused Soonyoung. 

An initiation test, Mingyu mumbles under his breath. 

They’re all acting like Jeonghan has already been accepted into the fold. That he has nothing more to prove. It’s nice. Jeonghan likes it here. He thinks his friends would, too. 

He’d really like to watch Seokmin try to keep his cool while a six year old forces exoskeletons into his hands and tells him about millipedes. 

“So,” Jeonghan sits between Jihoon and Seungkwan on the couch. “I hear you’re a bug doctor.” 

Jihoon scoffs. He smiles. Jeonghan feels proud of himself for getting through on his first go. Seungcheol said he’s a tough one. “Shut the fuck up, I know Shota knows how to say entomologist. He says it to me all the goddamn time.” 

“You’re a hero, dude.” 

“I’m really not.” 

“I heard that you and Mingyu went to the zoo without him. Low blow. There’s so many bugs there.” 

“It was a date!” 

“Tsk tsk,” Jeonghan scolds. “Mingyu doesn’t even like bugs.” 

“You’re horrifying,” Seungkwan says, laying his hand on Jeonghan’s thigh like they’re old friends. He looks so sincere when he follows it up with, “I like that.” 

Hansol leans forward so he can see over Seungkwan’s lap. “Is it true that Seungcheol totally embarrassed himself the first time he met you? Or was he being dramatic.” 

“He told Shota he could play with Jeonghan at home, so...” 

“God, that’s so awesome,” Hansol smiles so wide all his teeth show. He reaches out to give Jeonghan a high five. 

Seungkwan lowers his voice, leaning closer. “And did you wear that outfit to try to get Seungcheol to shit himself and die? Or was that an unintended consequence?” 

“Yah, I know you’re talking about me,” Seungcheol shouts from across the room. He’s just staring. Leaning against the wall with a drink in his hand. A painfully fond look sitting on his face as he watches his friends interact. 

“Unintended, but not unwelcome,” Jeonghan says, eyes locked with Seungcheol’s. 

Jihoon makes a noise. “This is disgusting.” 

“Move, then. I’ll happily take your place,” Minghao says from behind them, ready to tag himself into the gossip circle. 

Jeonghan’s life is mundane. He doesn’t do gatherings with this many people. He goes to the park to get fresh air, like a dog. He’s never had a kid zipping around him twenty four seven. But, he could probably get used to it pretty quickly. 

Maybe he already has. 

The night passes easily. There’s board games, and food, and Jeonghan talks to just about everyone for at least a little bit. 

Everyone but Seungcheol, somehow. 

Seungcheol is too busy running around, or keeping things in line, or watching over everyone like the adoring father he is. 

Jeonghan is watching Seungcheol, too. He watches as Seungcheol steals a kiss on Shota’s head whenever he’s in reach. And how he does the same for Seungkwan and Chan, too. How his eyes go wide when he’s insistent of something, and how everyone trusts him to know what’s best. 

It’s— well— sexy. 

It’s really hot. Jeonghan is turned on by a man that’s responsible and capable. Maybe he should have always been dating dads.

Most dads aren’t like Seungcheol, though. He knows that for a fact. 

Most men aren’t like Seungcheol. 

He’s doomed. 

Promptly at nine o’ clock, Seungkwan and Shota come down from upstairs and march to the front of the room. They have a captive audience, everyone else sitting around the room. 

“Attention, everyone. Shota is ready for bed.” Seungkwan claps, and then flourishes his arms to let Shota take the stage. 

Jeonghan blinks. He leans towards Junhui on his right. “What is happening?”

“Hush— this is like— the hunger games,” Junhui hisses. 

“I pick…” Shota starts. 

Mingyu audibly holds his breath on Jeonghan’s other side. Shota is scanning the room. Assessing his options. For what? Jeonghan doesn’t know. 

He stops and points right at Jeonghan’s head. “Jeonghan.” He grins. 

“Oh my god,” someone says. 

Someone else gasps. “A historic upset!” 

“This is bullshit,” Jihoon groans. 

“Language!” Seungcheol shouts over the squabble. 

“He’s never picked a new guy on the first visit— it’s not fair!” Mingyu this time. 

Jeonghan blinks as he’s urged to his feet. “What is happening?” 

“You’re the chosen one,” Junhui enthuses. “You get to put the kid to bed! He’s picked Mingyu the last, like, four times. This is unprecedented.” 

“A great honor,” Minghao pats his back and gives him a little salute. 

Seungcheol catches him right before Shota pulls him upstairs. “Don’t freak. He just wants to be tucked in and told goodnight. You’ll do great.” 

Jeonghan nods, still a bit dizzy from the commotion. This is fine. 

He follows Shota upstairs, down the hall. To a bright green bedroom. Everything is bright green. His sheets, his walls, his carpet. 

It’s so obvious how much Seungcheol loves this kid. He’d do anything for him. Jeonghan gets it. He does. 

Shota clicks on his night light and climbs into his bed. 

Jeonghan groans when he gets down on the floor, scooching up next to Shota’s bed. “Did you have a good night, bug?” 

“Yeah. So much fun. All my friends were here.”  

“Good,” Jeonghan can’t help but reach out and brush his hair from his face. It’s always in the way. He refuses to let Seungcheol cut it, because he likes it as long as possible. 

“Will you come back, Jeonghan?”

“Sure. If you want.” 

“I want,” Shota’s words fade into a massive yawn. He’s been going all day, not a second of rest. He’s got to be exhausted. 

“Goodnight, kid.” 

“Goodnight, Jeonghan. I love you.” 

Jeonghan feels like maybe he miscalculated how important this is to him. The words hit him dead center in his chest, splitting through his ribs without any resistance. “Love you too, bug,” he whispers, only a slight shake to his voice. 

God. Wonwoo is going to laugh at him. Seokmin might cry. It’s serious. 

He picks himself up and sneaks back out. Taking a second to gather himself once he’s got Shota’s door shut behind him. 

When he makes it back downstairs, everything is much quieter. Everyone is heading out, already wrapped in their jackets and putting their shoes on. A routine, probably. 

Seungkwan gives Jeonghan a hug, and Chan gives him a thumbs up for some indiscernible reason. And then it’s just Jeonghan and Seungcheol, idling in the living room. 

Seungcheol takes a deep breath, and slowly lets it out. “Do you want to stay for a glass of wine? I feel like I haven’t seen you much tonight, silly as that sounds.” 

“Yeah. That would be nice.” 

The letdown after a get together is always so much more intimate. Only a couple lamps turned on, Jeonghan sitting on the couch with his legs tucked up, waiting for Seungcheol to come back. The room is empty, but there’s still echoes of what was. Jeonghan can feel it simmering. 

On the precipice of a change— no matter how scary that may be. 

Seungcheol comes back on soft feet. He’s wearing light wash jeans and a loose flannel. Jeonghan hadn’t gotten the chance to fully appreciate him tonight. Now he does. He takes it all in with his next breath, not bothering to hide his stare. 

“I hope it wasn’t too much,” Seungcheol murmurs, handing off one of the already uncapped beers in his hand. He sits next to Jeonghan on the sofa, just a few centimeters from touching. Jeonghan wishes he’d just take the leap. 

“No, of course not. It was nice. I like all of them a lot.” 

Seungcheol’s arm falls over the back of the couch, also dangerously close to Jeonghan’s skin. “They like you too. Wouldn’t shut up about it as soon as you left.” 

“Mmm,” Jeonghan hums. He shifts slightly, allowing his knee to bump into Seungcheol’s thigh. “It’s so obvious that you’re their dad. I kind of love it.” 

“God, is it not embarrassing?” Seungcheol drops his head back. He doesn’t move away from Jeonghan’s touch. He lets it simmer. They’re simmering. 

“No, it’s really sweet. Kinda hot, honestly.” 

“Please.” 

“I’m being serious. I like it.” Jeonghan hides his smile in the neck of his bottle, taking a long drink.  

“When Sana got pregnant, I was so fucking horrified, you know?” Seungcheol stares off into space, a small smile playing on his lips. “I thought we were too young, even though we weren’t that young in the grand scheme of things. But it felt too soon, because it wasn’t meant to happen.” 

Seungcheol moves a bit closer. He lets one hand fall to Jeonghan’s knee. Just resting. Jeonghan can feel every nerve with distinct clarity. Impossibly reactive. 

“And she took me by the face, and she said, Seungcheol, you already have three kids. And it was so stupid, but it made me feel better, somehow.”  

Jeonghan smiles. He watches Seungcheol’s thumb run back and forth over his pants. “Which three was it?” 

“Hansollie, Seungkwan, and Chan. They were all crashing in my guest rooms at that point. I was running a boarding house.” 

“I’m sure they didn’t pay a cent.” 

“Not one,” Seungcheol grins. “But, anyway. All this to say that it worked out. It was really shitty for a while, but we worked it out.” 

“You’re a good dad,” Jeonghan says. He switches hands on his drink just so he can lay his hand on top of Seungcheol’s. Seungcheol sucks in a tiny breath. His eyes are bright, looking at Jeonghan through dark lashes. “I mean it, Cheollie.” 

“I just get so scared I’m fucking it up. I don’t want to fuck him up. He’s always gotta come first. I can’t fuck it up.” 

“You’re not going to fuck him up, Seungcheol. He’s wonderful.” 

“Ah. I’m just scared,” Seungcheol moves apart his fingers very slowly. Just enough that Jeonghan’s can slot into the spaces between. “He makes me scared in a way I’ve never felt before. So fragile. That’s all I could think about for the first, like, three years. How fragile this thing is.” 

“It’s alright to be scared, but it’s also alright to admit that you’re doing a good job.” 

“I’m doing a fine job. I couldn’t do it without everyone else.” 

Jeonghan squeezes his hand. “That’s how it’s supposed to be, Cheol.” 

Seungcheol looks down at their hands. When he swallows, Jeonghan can see his throat move. “I’m really glad we met you, Jeonghan.” 

Another shot clean through Jeonghan’s chest, warmth radiating out from the entry point. He’s almost shy about it. Despite everything. 

“I thought I scared you too.” 

“Ugh,” Seungcheol squeezes his eyes shut. “You remember that.” 

“I have a good drunk memory.” 

“Dangerous,” Seungcheol braves a peek. Jeonghan giggles when they lock eyes. Neither of them look away. “I can be scared and also admit that you’re a good thing, Jeonghan.” 

There’s a long moment where neither of them move. On the precipice. Simmering. Jeonghan wants Seungcheol to make the first move. He needs Seungcheol to make the first move, because he’s afraid Seungcheol will get scared away if he does it himself. A lot of change— letting himself have something. 

Seungcheol’s breath hitches. Jeonghan can hear it. He can see Seungcheol’s eyes drop. Feel the flex in his hand. 

But then he pulls away. Stretches his arms above his head, and sets his beer on the side table. “It’s getting late.” 

“Okay, old man,” Jeonghan sighs, only a little bit disappointed. He doesn’t want to fuck it up either. 

“I’ll call you a car.” 

“Sure.” 

Jeonghan nurses the rest of his beer as Seungcheol fiddles around on his phone. He can feel the flames licking his feet dying down— settling back into the earth. Another day. Another time. It’s fine. 

Seungcheol walks him to the door. He leans his hip against the wall as Jeonghan puts his shoes on. “Thank you for coming.” 

“Of course, Cheollie. You guys are my friends.” He puffs out a breath when he stands upright. “Do you think Shota would mind three more uncles? I know some guys.” 

“The kid is more doted on than anyone else I know. Of course he wouldn’t,” Seungcheol scratches his head. He licks over his bottom lip, almost uncertain, “You’d want us to meet your friends?” 

What a silly question. “Yes. Silly man. They’ve been asking for months.” 

The cab honks. Seungcheol startles. Jeonghan laughs. 

“Goodnight, Seungcheol.” 

“Goodnight. See you on Friday.” 

“Friday.” 

⚘

“The kid told me he loves me and I almost cried.” 

“Oh, Jesus. That’s dark,” Wonwoo says. 

Jeonghan scoffs, taking a break from inspecting his cuticles, feet propped up on his desk, to glare at his phone as if Wonwoo can see him. “What do you mean dark? Isn’t it sweet?” 

“You’re going to marry this guy, aren’t you? Even though he won’t kiss you.” 

“He’s scared. It’s cute. He’s being careful.” 

“I’m going to have to learn how to take care of children. I don’t know how to change diapers.” 

“Shota is six.” 

“That means nothing to me.” 

“Okay,” Jeonghan taps his nails on his desk. “Why did I call you and not Seokmin?” 

“Seokmin is always busy at work. I never am.” 

“Right. What a damn shame.” 

Jeonghan’s phone starts beeping in his ear, another call coming through. He frowns. Checks the ID. His heart skips a beat or two.

“I gotta go, Wonwoo, Seungcheol is calling.” 

He doesn’t wait for whatever snarky comment Wonwoo is surely making before swinging his feet to sit solidly on the ground and picking up Seungcheol’s call. 

“Hey, Seungcheollie, is everything alright?” 

“I’m so, so sorry to bother you, Jeonghan— but can you pick Shota up from school?” Seungcheol is frantic. “There’s no one else— and I— fuck— I’m so sorry— He had an incident, and he needs to leave— he’s really upset—” 

Jeonghan is already shoving his things into his bag with one hand. “Cheol, chill. Of course I can. Send me the address.” 

Jeonghan won’t admit how panicky he is on his way to Shota’s school. His heart is going at an outrageous pace, hands sweating. 

His stomach sinks when he sees Shota sitting in the office. His face swollen and red, tear tracks stained on his cheeks. 

“Oh, bug,” Jeonghan sighs, crouching down so Shota can fall into him, arms winding around his neck. He starts crying again as soon as Jeonghan has him. Face buried into his neck. “What happened?” 

The teacher is there, and she’s smiling pitifully at them. Jeonghan feels almost defensive about it. Hoisting himself and Shota up, legs only shaking a little bit. 

“He gets a little overwhelmed sometimes. It was a hard day. We thought it would be better to send him home than to push it.” 

“Good, yeah. Sure. Thanks.” 

“Of course, Mr. Choi. Thanks for coming on short notice.” 

Jeonghan doesn’t bother to correct her. He takes Shota’s backpack and sets him back down the second they step into the hall because he fears his arms are going to give out. 

“Can you walk by yourself, kid? I’m not as strong as your dad.” Jeonghan clucks his tongue as he wipes at Shota’s cheeks with his thumbs. Trying his best to clean up the spilled tears. 

Shota pokes out his bottom lip. He nods shakily. 

“Right. Okay. It’s fine, we’ll be fine,” Jeonghan can’t tell if he’s talking to Shota or himself. He doesn’t know if it matters. 

“Where’s my dad?” 

“He’s at work. He’ll be home as soon as possible. Is that alright?” Jeonghan starts pushing Shota’s hair off of his face, gathering it up on top of his head. He’s started wearing extra hair ties on his wrist for just this reason. Half the time Shota asks him to do it for him— but he’s a little preoccupied right now. 

Thankfully, Shota perks up a bit once they’re off school grounds. He’s keeping up with Jeonghan, holding onto his hand for dear life. He even puts his backpack on again. 

Jeonghan feels a bit out of his depth. He doesn’t want to fuck it up. Shota looks at him with such trust— complete faith. But Seungcheol trusted him enough to call, and that has to count for something. 

“How do you feel about ice cream?” he asks Shota, coming to a stop outside of the corner store a few blocks from Seungcheol’s house.

“I like ice cream.” 

“Fantastic. I think we deserve ice cream.” 

“Do you want to talk about what happened at school?” Jeonghan asks eventually, once he’s sure that Shota is all out of tears. 

They’re laying on the couch, Jeonghan running a wet wipe over Shota’s ice-cream sticky fingers, TV turned on to some documentary about African species. Shota seems to be enjoying it— that’s all that matters. 

“I don’t like the kids in my class. They’re too loud.” 

Jeonghan hums. He folds up the wipe and throws it on the coffee table next to their other garbage. He’ll deal with it later. Right now, Shota is curled up into his side, little hands twisted into his shirt. 

“Are they mean to you?” 

“Not really.” 

“Just don’t mesh with them?” 

“Yeah.” 

The kid really should find some friends his age. Maybe there’s some sort of club for children that like bugs too much. Jeonghan feels like Seungcheol has thought of that already, but it wouldn’t hurt to look again. Hell, maybe they could start a club for kids who like bugs too much. Surely, there has to be at least one more of these little weirdos in the city. 

“But you’re my friend, right, Jeonghan?” 

Jeonghan begins combing Shota’s hair with his fingers. Slow repetitions that he knows will calm him down. He always pays attention to what Seungcheol does, just so he doesn’t do anything wrong. Maybe he’s thinking too hard about it. 

“Of course I’m your friend, bug.” 

That seems to settle Shota. He lets out a big sigh, focusing on the TV in a way that lets Jeonghan know that he’s done talking. 

It doesn’t take long before he falls asleep, Jeonghan’s fingers in his hair, breathing evening out. Jeonghan feels a sharp pain in the center of his chest. He cares for this kid so fucking much. It’s fine. He’s fine. He’s just feeling really emotional about it. The fact that Shota ever has to be upset— it’s upsetting. 

He does his best to stay still. Shota is a heavy sleeper, but it doesn’t hurt to be careful. 

They’re still in the same position when Seungcheol walks in an hour later. Jeonghan’s back is starting to ache. He presses his finger to his lips to tell Seungcheol to be quiet— just in time, too. Seungcheol bursts in, all frenzied and wide-eyed, hair a mess, suit askew. 

Jeonghan moves very slowly, easing Shota onto the couch, slipping out from beneath him. Shota only makes a soft noise in his sleep before curling in on himself. Jeonghan pulls a blanket over him before turning his attention back to Seungcheol. 

Seungcheol is staring at him like he just saw a ghost. He doesn’t stop until they’re safely in the kitchen. Then he becomes absolutely untamed with anxiety. 

“I should pay you. God, you probably left work early, I wasn’t even thinking. I didn’t know who else to call, I’m so sorry that you had to do this—”

“Cheol—” Jeonghan says. 

It’s no use. Seungcheol is pulling his wallet out of his pants, rifling through it. “I’m sorry. Here, take money. How much do you want? Take all of it.” 

“Seungcheol.” 

“Jeonghan, really. I’m so sorry.” 

“Choi Seungcheol, be quiet,” Jeonghan’s fingers curl around his wrist, stopping his nervous hands. “I don’t want your money, and I don’t want apologies. It’s no big deal. I came because I love him. Take a breath, babe.” 

Seungcheol follows directions. He blinks, inhales. Exhales. “You do.” Not really a question, but not quite stated like a fact. 

“Of course I do,” Jeonghan huffs a laugh. He lets go of Seungcheol’s wrist, bringing his hands to his lapels instead. Straightening out his suit. “You have a problem with sorries, you know. When are you going to realize that you deserve good things? Sometimes people just do things because they care about you. I’m only ever here because I want to be.”

“Fuck,” Seungcheol breathes. He drags his hand through his hair. Jeonghan loves when he does that. “I want to say sorry, but I shouldn’t.” 

Jeonghan smiles softly. “No, you shouldn’t.” 

“Okay. I won’t.” 

“Good.”

They’re standing too close. Jeonghan’s hands are just laying on Seungcheol’s chest, not doing anything important anymore. Neither of them seem too desperate to make more room. 

“I think maybe we should put Shota in a club or something. He needs to make friends who like the same weird shit he does.” 

“Yeah. I know. I just don’t know where the fuck to look.” 

“Seokmin works at the science museum downtown—” Jeonghan runs his finger along the seams of Seungcheol’s suit pocket. “I’ll ask him. He does summer camps and things like that.” 

“That would be great.” Seungcheol sets his hand on Jeonghan’s hip, warm and solid. 

His fingers sprawl over the curve of Jeonghan’s body. Jeonghan almost melts. He has to hold himself back from bowing forward into Seungcheol’s chest. 

Seungcheol’s thumb makes a tiny circle. He chews on his bottom lip. “What are you doing this weekend?” 

“I don’t know. You tell me.” 

“He wants to go to the zoo.” 

“Okay, so let's go to the zoo.” 

“You want to?” Seungcheol always looks so surprised that Jeonghan wants to stick around. Jeonghan would be annoyed if he weren’t so smitten. 

God, is he smitten. He’s head over heels. He’s hosting a terrarium of butterflies in his chest cavity. They’re drinking the tears of the bitter, lonely snakes that sit in his gut. 

“If you two are there, I’ll be there.” 

Seungcheol squeezes out a laugh. His eyebrows tip together. “Can I give you a hug?” 

“Yes, weirdo.” Jeonghan moves before he finishes talking, winding his arms around Seungcheol’s neck, bringing him in. 

Seungcheol relaxes. He folds himself around Jeonghan’s waist, head falling into the crook of his neck. Jeonghan shivers when his breath brushes over the skin of his neck. He can feel Seungcheol’s heart in his chest, still running a bit too fast. 

This is nice. It’s really nice. He feels safe with Seungcheol— which isn’t something he thought he was lacking. 

He’s all undone. He just needs Seungcheol to realize and pick up the slack. 

“Thank you,” Seungcheol murmurs. 

“Anything for you boys, Cheollie.” 

⚘

To Group Chat

[1 image]

The lady that took this photo for us called us a “gorgeous family” and I have never seen Seungcheol blush so hard.

I want him.

Like, I ferally need him.

 

From Wonwoo

That’s a lot.

 

To Group Chat

Honesty is the best policy.

 

From Jisoo

Oh my god. Look at you three. 

I’m going to lose my mind.

I think I want a baby.

Seokmin, I think I want a baby.

 

From Seokmin

Let’s test run Jeonghan’s baby first.

If you still want a baby after that, we can go to the store.

 

From Wonwoo

I’ve been doing lots of research on how to care for six year olds.

Apparently they love trying out lying cheating and stealing at that age.

Maybe that's why Jeonghan gets along with him so well.

 

To Group Chat

I cheated at Monopoly once, Wonwoo.

 

From Wonwoo

And I’ll never forgive you.

“Ready?” Seungcheol’s hand settles onto Jeonghan’s back. He keeps doing that. Jeonghan’s about to crawl out of his skin. He didn’t know that casual touches could be so charged. 

Jeonghan tucks his phone back into his pocket, giving Seungcheol the sweetest smile he can muster. 

The zoo is surprisingly quiet today, but the weather is getting a bit colder. There’s a few random stragglers, but they’ve been largely unbothered. Following Shota’s whims to here or there. Obviously, the bug house is getting saved for last. They’ve blocked out a good hour to spend there, because they know Shota will spend his proper time at every single window. 

“Jeonghan, let's go look at the bears. Then I want to go see the bugs.” Shota materializes at Jeonghan’s hip, already grabbing at his hand. 

He’s been speaking directly to Jeonghan all day. 

Jeonghan, let's go here first.

Jeonghan, let’s get a snack. 

Jeonghan, let’s go into this place. 

Seungcheol keeps looking at them like he’s going to combust. Jeonghan doesn’t doubt that he would, given the chance. He’s been fighting off a smile all day, but it keeps slipping. Eyes shining with affection, hovering around Jeonghan and Shota like a drone. 

Jeonghan adores him. 

At the railing to the brown bear enclosure, shota stands in front of Jeonghan, Jeonghan holding his waist so he doesn’t fall off of his perch standing on the bar. Seungcheol slots in beside them, his hand finding Jeonghan’s lower back. 

Jeonghan needs him. 

Shota insists on standing between them on their way to the bugs. He holds each of their hands, and screams in delight every time Jeonghan and Seungcheol work together to lift him into the air. 

Jeonghan wants this. Really. 

There’s a second outside the bug house where Shota acts like he doesn’t know if he wants to go in. He’s so excited that he becomes nervous. He looks at Jeonghan and Seungcheol with big, unsure eyes. 

“We’ll be with you the entire time, bug. It’ll be great,” Seungcheol assures him, retying up Shota’s hair for him. Everyone has to be well prepared for the bug house. 

Shota looks at Jeonghan, like he wants confirmation of Seungcheol’s sentiment. “You’ve been wanting to come here forever. We can spend as much time as you need. There’s no rush.” 

“Okay. I’m ready.” 

The second they step inside, Shota nearly breaks Jeonghan’s hand with how hard he’s squeezing. Jeonghan swallows his complaint, and then smacks Seungcheol for laughing at him. 

They’re going to be here for a while. Shota is ecstatic. He wants to start on one side, and then come back. He’s got his nose pressed to the first window already, fogging up the glass with his breath. Gasping. 

No one lingers in the bug house. Jeonghan isn’t surprised. It’s dark, and humid, and filled with bugs. Really, an amazing display— but not widely appreciated, he can assume. 

It works for them.

Shota takes his sweet time. He spends time at every bug. 

He becomes completely entranced by the spiny flower mantis, fingers slipping off the edge of the window, going completely quiet as he stares. 

Seungcheol keeps inching closer to Jeonghan. Arms brushing. Hands knocking together.

At the spiders, they stand a bit further back from Shota, because Jeonghan still can’t get used to that. Shota is too engrossed to care. He’s talking to himself quietly, in his own world. 

Jeonghan’s hand stretches at his side. Seungcheol is bumping into him again. There’s no need to look at him to know that he’s blushing. Jeonghan knows he is. 

One more bump, and Seungcheol’s fingers finally catch his. Jeonghan turns his palm, allowing Seungcheol to slot their hands together. 

Neither of them move. Neither of them breathe. Shota has his face pressed to the glass, watching the spider move around, building an intricate web. 

He doesn’t even turn around to talk to them. “Jeonghan, this species is poisonous.”

“That’s great,” Jeonghan says. “Let’s leave it in the cage, then.” 

Shota’s head bobs up and down. “Good idea.” 

Seungcheol chuckles softly beside him. He’s holding Jeonghan’s hand, and he’s really warm. So close. He leans closer. 

“He loves you so much it drives me a bit crazy.” 

“Yeah?” Jeonghan turns his head. Seungcheol hasn’t retreated. He’s lingering, and his eyes are flickering down. His heart rabbits. He takes half the leap, “What are you going to do about it?” 

“Mm,” Seungcheol hums. And then he’s closing the gap between them like it’s the most natural thing in the world. 

He falls into Jeonghan, and their lips slot together. Jeonghan lays his hand on Seungcheol’s chest, just to ground himself, Seungcheol stealing the breath straight from his lungs. 

Seungcheol kisses him chastely but perfectly insistent. A few slow movements, enough feeling behind it for Jeonghan to understand. 

It doesn’t last long, but it’s enough. A shift. Jeonghan can feel it in his chest. An ah-ha moment. 

They pull apart, and Seungcheol looks terrified. He tries to drop Jeonghan’s hand, but Jeonghan doesn’t let him. 

“I’m sorry— I shouldn’t have,” he whispers.

“No you’re not. Yes you should have.” 

Seungcheol’s mouth moves, but no sound comes out. Eyes flashing through emotions. 

“Dad, can you lift me up so I can see that one?” Shota reaches up to point to a higher up display case. Completely innocent. There’s no chance he saw anything. The kid loves bugs too fucking much to look away. 

Seungcheol freaks out anyway. He jumps away from Jeonghan, and wipes his hands on his pants. Bends down to lift Shota up. “Sure, bug. Here.” He’s radiating anxious energy. Vibrating out of his skin. 

Jeonghan knows they need to talk. They probably should have talked long before this— so that whatever they are could have happened in a closed environment. Seungcheol is sensitive to change. 

Shota gasps. He’s electric. “Jeonghan, look at this one!” 

“That one is pretty cool,” Jeonghan crosses his arms, stepping up behind Seungcheol’s shoulder. “I like the colors.” 

“The colors are so it can attract a mate.” 

“Sweet.” 

Seungcheol shoots him a nervous glance. And then another. Jeonghan brings a hand to the nape of his neck, smoothing down the hair, fingers pressing into his muscles. 

“Take a breath,” he says quietly, just for Seungcheol. “We’ll figure it out.” 

Jeonghan feels a little guilty about how he can’t focus on the bugs from there on out. But, in his defense, he can still taste Seungcheol’s chapstick on his mouth, and he can still feel the pressure of him on his skin. 

As much as he wants to care about bugs for Shota’s sake— he cares about his dad a lot more. Two arms, two legs, no wings. That’s as much as Jeonghan can handle. 

It takes Shota an hour and a half to be satisfied. That’s when he decides they can leave. 

He’s absolutely wired when they do. Bouncing up and down, rambling about everything he saw and how epic it was. 

Seungcheol is trying so hard to pretend to be interested, but his eyes are carrying all of his worries. He’s putting on his best face. Jeonghan is going to knock him out if he keeps acting like the world is ending. 

Desperate times. 

To Chan

You know how you owe me? 

 

From Chan

??????? 

 

To Chan

You know how you owe me because I told Soonyoung to tell you that he’s single and interested?

 

From Chan

oh yeah

that

 

To Chan

We’re going to drop Shota off in an hour. 

You’re going to keep him entertained until after dinner. 

 

From Chan

oh my god

seungcheol is finally going to get some? 

fuck yeah

drop him off

i need his help to beat this level of super mario anyway

Jeonghan waits until they’re all in Seungcheol’s car, buckled in, engine started, before he says anything.

“Shota, we’re going to drop you off at Uncle Chan’s house. Sound good?” 

Seungcheol’s head whips around just as Shota gasps, “Really?” 

“Yeah— he wants to hang out with you until after dinner. Is that alright?” 

Shota nods enthusiastically. Seungcheol is still gawking at him. 

“I told you we’ll figure it out, Cheol. Let’s figure it out. Don’t we deserve to figure it out?” 

Seungcheol swallows. “Are you asking me or telling me?” 

“I’m telling you.” 

“Right. Okay.” 

Shota starts humming along to the radio. Jeonghan folds his hands in his lap. Seungcheol drives. 

As soon as Seungcheol gets back in the car from depositing Shota at Chan’s door, he says, “I just need a second to think.” 

“Okay. Whatever you need, Cheol,” Jeonghan nods. He lets his head roll towards the window, watching the city go by. 

Seungcheol is still thinking when they get back to his house, but he still runs around the car to open the door for Jeonghan. His brow all furrowed, lips pressed into a line. So serious. 

He’s thinking for so long that Jeonghan is about to cut him off. Pacing back and forth in the living room as Jeonghan sits on the couch, legs crossed, watching him. 

It’s a bit dramatic. 

“Cheol, what could there possibly be that you haven’t gone over yet?” Jeonghan sighs. 

Seungcheol comes to a stop. He runs a hand through his hair, and then again, and Jeonghan still loves that, even if it’s a nervous habit. His eyes look so sad, and he’s frowning. Jeonghan won’t have it. 

He stands up, closing the distance between them, still leaving enough of a gap for Seungcheol to simmer. Within reach but not touching. 

“Hey,” he says. 

“Hi,” Seungcheol breathes for what feels like the first time in an hour. 

Jeonghan brushes an imaginary speck of dust off of Seungcheol’s shoulder. “You kissed me in the bug house.” 

Seungcheol laughs once, but it sounds pained. “I’m sorry.” 

“For what? Kissing me, or doing it in the bug house?” 

“I shouldn’t have kissed you.”

“Why not?” Jeonghan is too stubborn to let him get away with this. “Do you regret it?”

“I have a hard time, Jeonghan.” 

“That’s not a yes or no.” Jeonghan shifts half a step closer. “I really like you, Seungcheol. I thought it was obvious.”

“I know.”

Jeonghan huffs. “Okay. So what’s the issue?” 

“There’s just so much—” Seungcheol finally touches him. Just a hand on Jeonghan’s bicep. It’s enough. “My life is complicated. I can’t afford to be selfish.” 

“I don’t agree with you.” 

Seungcheol blinks. He shakes his head a little bit. “What do you mean you don’t agree with me?” 

“I think you’re scared because you don’t know what comes next. I don’t think you’re worried about complication, or selfishness. You’re just scared, Cheol. And that’s fine, but I’m not willing to let you go over that.” Jeonghan takes another half step. Seungcheol squeezes his arm. 

“It won’t be like a normal relationship, Jeonghan.” 

Jeonghan reaches out. He lays a hand at the curve of Seungcheol’s jaw, relishing in the way Seungcheol leans into the touch. “I’m not asking you for anything more than what you are.” 

“I just need to be sure. I need you to know that I—” Seungcheol shuts his eyes, choking on his words. He breathes out. Opens his eyes. He’s so good at eye contact that it makes everything so much more intense. They need it right now, Jeonghan figures. “I can’t do casual, Jeonghan. I need you to be really sure, I can’t do it if you’re not really sure that this is serious.” 

“I’m more than sure, Cheol. Are you?” Jeonghan’s hand slides down to the side of his neck. “You’re the only one freaking out here.” 

Seungcheol’s jaw shifts. He’s thinking too hard again. “I’m out of practice.” 

“So am I,” Jeonghan gets a bit closer. “Let’s figure it out together.” 

“I have a kid,” Seungcheol tries. 

Jeonghan openly laughs at that one. “I’m well aware that you have a kid. I love your kid.”

“It’s not easy,” Seungcheol’s voice drops lower. He readjusts, hand curling securely around Jeonghan’s waist instead of his arm. “It won’t be easy.”

“So what?”

“We have to go slow. We won’t be able to tell Shota until we’re one hundred percent sure. Until we know this is it.” 

Jeonghan nods. “Of course.” 

Seungcheol’s eyes search his face desperately. “You’re not giving up. Why aren’t you giving up?” 

“Because I’m serious, you dork,” Jeonghan bites his lip to hide his smile. 

“Fuck, Jeonghan. I’ve been going crazy.”

“I know, honey,” Jeonghan whispers. He buries his fingers in Seungcheol’s hair, because he can do that now. “I was just waiting for you to realize it.” 

“I’m sorry our first kiss was in the bug house.” 

“It’s kind of special, no?”

“Let me make it up to you,” Seungcheol says. He hooks two fingers into Jeonghan’s belt loops, tugging him in and aligning their hips. 

Jeonghan loves when a simmer turns to a boil.  

“Please.”

Seungcheol doesn’t hold back this time. He kisses Jeonghan like he’s starved. One hand holds Jeonghan close, while the other slips beneath the hem of his shirt. Skin to skin, fingers kneading his flesh. 

Jeonghan allows himself to melt. He preens forward, and twists his fingers up in Seungcheol’s hair, tilts his head to the side to allow the kiss to deepen, nose pressed to Seungcheol’s cheek. 

There’s nothing else left. Flames licking at their ankles, steadily rising to waist level. Then neck. Inferno. 

Seungcheol’s tongue begs access, and Jeonghan gives it without thought. He makes a desperate noise when Seungcheol licks into his mouth, and then again when Seungcheol sucks on his tongue on the retreat. 

“I’ve wanted you for so long, Hannie,” Seungcheol says between messy kisses down Jeonghan’s jaw. 

Jeonghan tips his head back, allowing Seungcheol to roam. “How long?” 

“The second I laid eyes on you. You’re the most beautiful person I’ve ever fucking seen.” 

Honestly— Jeonghan has never been one for praise, or cute names, or taking more time than he needs. And maybe it’s because he hasn’t done this in a while, or maybe it’s just because of Seungcheol, but clearly his tastes have changed. 

He thinks it’s just because of Seungcheol. 

He’s never had anything like this. Insistent hands on his back, and pretty words pressed into his throat. Admissions that it’s been there all along and this incredible devotion that feels so achingly raw. 

Seungcheol took the time to peel back Jeonghan’s outer layers, even though he didn’t mean to. Every word he speaks lodges right in Jeonghan’s soft underbelly, coaxed into complete demise. He never stood a chance. 

His gut coils with heat. 

“Say it again,” he pleads. 

“I’ll say it whenever you want. You’re gorgeous. You’re beautiful, baby.” 

Jeonghan outright moans, Seungcheol’s teeth scraping over his collarbone. He’s so weak to it. He wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Seungcheol pulls back, lips wet, eyes shiny. In awe. He holds Jeonghan like he’s something precious. “I know I said slow— but— does this count?” 

They’re figuring it out. There’s not a set of instructions. 

“Do you want me, Seungcheol?” Jeonghan asks, nails scraping over Seungcheol’s scalp. 

“Yes,” Seungcheol holds him tighter. “God, yes.” 

“Okay. Then, have me.” 

Seungcheol doesn’t need to be told twice. Jeonghan loves that about him. He kisses Jeonghan with purpose, softly encouraging him in the direction of the stairs. 

They’re laughing as they stumble up, hands everywhere and nowhere. Everything is clumsy. 

At the top, Seungcheol presses Jeonghan against the wall. His hands drag down his sides, grabbing at his thighs. He hoists Jeonghan up like that, an embarrassing squeak tumbling out of Jeonghan’s mouth. 

Seungcheol smirks— because he knows what he does to Jeonghan. He knows what he’s doing, carrying Jeonghan down the hall, into his open bedroom door. Tossing Jeonghan onto the bed, right in the middle. 

They’re both a bit out of breath. Seungcheol puts his hands on either side of Jeonghan’s knees, right at the end of the mattress, taking him in. Jeonghan doesn’t ever feel self conscious when Seungcheol is looking at him. He doesn’t think it’s possible— Seungcheol holds too much reverence in his eyes. 

“Cheollie,” Jeonghan pleads. Impatient. 

“Fuck—” Seungcheol takes a long breath. Hesitating. “Jeonghan— baby— it’s been a while.”

Jeonghan is completely aflame. Seungcheol has him made of cards— one flick from coming apart. “Good. I want to break you in again.” 

Seungcheol hisses. “Christ, don’t talk like that or I’ll cum before you touch me.”  

“Honesty is the best policy,” Jeonghan teases, only to be kissed quiet.

Clothes come off as Jeonghan’s head is on a spin. Seungcheol’s hands are strong and capable. He’s good at multitasking. Kissing every bit of skin he uncovers. Jeonghan is completely hard before Seungcheol even has his shirt off. 

Seungcheol pauses to stare. “God, you’re so gorgeous.” 

“I’d look better with your fingers inside of me.” 

Lips attach to his thigh as Seungcheol works him open. He’s leaving marks, because Jeonghan selfishly asked him to. 

He’s going to be a mess tomorrow. His thighs are pink by the time Seungcheol is finished with him. Pulling his fingers out as Jeonghan trembles beneath him. 

“Fuck,” Jeonghan says eloquently. Then again, when Seungcheol finally strips. Standing bare in front of him. “Fuck.” 

“I’m not anything special,” Seungcheol laughs nervously. 

Jeonghan wants to hit him. He needs Seungcheol to understand. 

He pushes himself up, lacing his fingers around Seungcheol’s neck, dragging him down into the bed. Flipping them over so Seungcheol is laid out under him. Just where he should be. 

Jeonghan lets his hands wander. He kisses down Seungcheol’s stomach, roves over his thighs. He’s soft in all the right places. So clearly strong beneath it all. 

“I’ve never wanted anyone as much as I want you,” Jeonghan says, holding Seungcheol’s face in his hands. “I’m not bluffing. You’re so fucking sexy, Cheol.” 

Seungcheol blushes. 

He blushes while their cocks are hard and rutting against each other, and while he’s seconds from being inside of Jeonghan. 

He blushes, and Jeonghan is abysmally into it. 

Seungcheol’s hands slide back over the curve of Jeonghan’s ass. He shakes his head, makes a little noise of disbelief. “Are you real?” 

“You’re perfect, Cheollie.” 

“What are you going to do about it?” Seungcheol tosses back, grinning. 

Jeonghan goes for the lube again. He pauses. “Do you have condoms?”

Seungcheol blinks, like he’s waking up from a stupor. “Oh, fuck.” 

“Do we need condoms?”

Right back into the stupor Seungcheol goes. He squeezes Jeonghan’s ass. “I haven’t been with anyone since Sana.”

“And I’m clean.” Jeonghan plants his hands on Seungcheol’s chest. “Just don’t knock me up, alright?” 

Seungcheol makes a noise somewhere between a moan and a whine. It’s pathetic. Jeonghan is abysmally into it. 

He laughs, working more lube over Seungcheol’s cock. “Oh, wow. Maybe you were making bad decisions when you were younger,” he teases. “The thought of getting me pregnant really works for you?”

“Stop making fun of me,” Seungcheol whines. His eyebrows are pulled together, cheeks flushed. So pretty. 

“It’s hot— don’t worry. You can fuck a baby into me if you want.” 

Jeonghan doesn’t waste any more time. He lines Seungcheol up and sinks down over his cock, Seungcheol’s next thought punched out of his mouth with an aborted breath.

The eye contact. He’s so good at it. Intense, and warm, like he’s very interested. Jeonghan doesn’t doubt that he is. 

“Fuck— you gotta slow down,” Seungcheol breathes. “I’m not going to last.” 

“You make me feel so desired,” Jeonghan’s thighs ache, but he doesn’t mind. He drags his hands over Seungcheol’s chest, letting his nails catch on his nipples. Seungcheol jerks up into him in response. 

“You are, baby— God— you are.” 

Jeonghan starts slow. He works up to a steady pace. The stretch is a lot. It’s been a long time for him, too, but his body never forgot the motions. He enjoys the slight hint of pain— and Seungcheol is more than worth it. 

It’s maddening. Swiveling his hips just so, full up— simmering once again. 

His legs get tired faster than they used to, but Seungcheol is right there to catch him. He manages to lift Jeonghan up without pulling out. Flipping him on his back, bending his knees up. 

“Alright?” Seungcheol asks, laying a deceptively sweet kiss on Jeonghan’s lips. As if he isn’t blowing Jeonghan’s mind. 

“Fuck me, Seungcheol.” 

Seungcheol smiles. He glows when he does. Jeonghan swears he can see it, even now. He holds one of Jeonghan’s legs up, and uses his other hand to keep his hip steady, fucking into him like he means it. The angle allows more than when Jeonghan was on top. He’s hitting him hard and fast, right where it counts. 

Jeonghan finishes as soon as he reaches down to touch himself, and Seungcheol is right behind him, looking into Jeonghan’s eyes as he spills inside of him. 

It’ll be a mess, but Jeonghan doesn’t even mind. Seungcheol is so warm, he can feel him deep below his navel, inside of him, and looming over him. 

“Ah,” Jeonghan breathes. He uses his clean hand to brush Seungcheol’s sweaty bangs off his forehead. “You’re good at that.” 

“That’s the first thing you’re going to say to me after sex?” Seungcheol laughs. He’s glowing, god damnit. 

“You fucked me stupid, Cheol. I dunno what else you want. Maybe if you hadn’t kissed me in the bug house—” 

Seungcheol kisses him then, swallowing up the rest of Jeonghan’s words. 

“I’m putting a prohibition on the words bug house for the rest of the day,” Seungcheol says against his lips. 

“Critter cave,” Jeonghan says. 

Seungcheol kisses him. 

“Insect home.” 

Seungcheol pulls out. Jeonghan whines. 

“Shower,” Seungcheol says. “Human shower.” 

Dating a dad is about to be so lame. Jeonghan is so, abysmally into it.

⚘

Jeonghan has his head pillowed on Seungcheol’s bare chest, Seungcheol’s fingers combing through his hair (freshly showered!) when the phone rings.

It’s Chan’s ringtone. Jeonghan gets left in the dust, falling to the mattress with an oof. Seungcheol shoots him an apologetic look as he fumbles to pick up the call. 

“What?” he barks into the receiver. “Is he alright?” 

Chan’s tinny voice is loud enough for Jeonghan to hear, lilted with a whine, “Can we please have a sleepover? We’re on a Mario roll, Cheol. Seriously.” 

Seungcheol runs a hand through his hair. He shuts his eyes. Relaxes. “Alright. Sure. Does he need a bag?” 

“Yes please.” 

“Okay. We’ll come drop it off in a bit.” 

Seungcheol hangs up the phone. Sighs. Jeonghan swears he picked that up from him. 

“Duty calls,” Jeonghan smiles, patting Seungcheol’s chest. 

Another sigh. “Thank god he doesn’t call you uncle, by the way. That would get so awkward.” 

⚘

For all his drama about taking things slow, Seungcheol almost folds three months in— and it’s only because he’s being dramatic about Jeonghan not being able to sleep over. 

“I want to wake up next to you, is that too much to ask?” 

Yes, Jeonghan reminds him. It is. They’re not about to fuck it up just because Seungcheol is being sappy. 

Besides, he’s pouting just to pout. Every three weeks Sana has Shota for at least a few days. They have all of that time completely to themselves, and every time Seungcheol gets all mopey because Shota isn’t around. 

Jeonghan loves him. 

He knows Seungcheol loves him too. They haven’t said it yet— they’re both letting it simmer. 

It’s been six months, and they’re sitting at the kitchen table with Shota as he eats his cereal. 

The kid is clearly suspicious. He keeps raising his eyebrows and narrowing his eyes. Bringing his spoon to his mouth slowly. 

Jeonghan thinks that he caught a glimpse of the bag of exoskeletons Seungcheol is hiding under the table. Freshly provided by Jihoon as a backup plan. This is so ridiculous. Jeonghan is aware of how ridiculous this is. 

“Bug, you know we love you very much, right?” Seungcheol starts. 

“What did Uncle Jihoon drop off?” Shota asks. 

Jeonghan snickers, and Seungcheol whacks his thigh beneath the table. 

“Listen for a minute, Shota. Then we can talk about Jihoon.” 

Shota raises his eyebrows again. Narrows his eyes. “Okay.”

“Let’s cut to the chase, Cheol,” Jeonghan doesn’t think he can handle the way Seungcheol will choose to weave this. Some weird story about how everyone likes each other, but they like each other more. “Shota, your dad and I are boyfriends.” 

Seungcheol holds his breath. 

Shota stares. “Is that it?” 

Jeonghan shrugs. “Yeah.” 

“Okay. Can I see the exoskeletons now?” 

Seungcheol makes an exasperated noise. He’s looking between Shota and Jeonghan. Jeonghan and Shota. 

“Do you have any specific feelings about that, bug? About me and your dad?” Jeonghan asks, mostly to make Seungcheol chill out. 

“Not really.” 

“Any questions?” 

Shota screws up his face. “Can Jeonghan still be my friend?” 

“Yeah,” Seungcheol speaks— finally. Nods. “Yeah. Jeonghan will always be your friend.” 

“Alright. I want to see the skeletons, please.” He pushes his bowl out of the way, getting up on his knees and leaning across the table to make grabby hands. “Please.” 

Jeonghan elbows Seungcheol. “Give him the bugs, Cheol.” 

Seungcheol does. He slides the bag across the table, still in shock. 

“Thank you!” Shota cheers. He snatches the bag up and hurries away, little feet banging on the floor as he retreats down the hall. 

“What just happened?” Seungcheol asks. 

“That went well!” Jeonghan runs a hand through his hair. And then he does it again. He loves doing that. “I love you, by the way.” 

“I love you too,” Seungcheol blinks. He puts a hand on Jeonghan’s thigh. “Yeah. I’m super in love with you.” 

“That’s super awesome. I’m super in love with you too.” 

Their vocabulary is only slightly impacted by the child they spend so much time with. 

“Cool. Sick. Epic,” Seungcheol nods, leaning into Jeonghan’s space. He goes for a kiss, but Jeonghan holds him back just as their lips brush. 

“Did you know that dance flies give gifts to their mates—”

Seungcheol kisses him quiet.