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Here was Jeno on the school grounds to which he’ll be spending his next two years. He didn't think too much of it but it's an adjustment for sure. Being a new kid isn't easy and especially transferring in the middle of it all but he’ll suck it up. As he looked around for the office he would notice some students gazing at him, others ignored him and went on their way. He’s convinced it’ll be rough but he ignores it.
Sending him to an all boys boarding school, he remembered his mother’s words just before she dropped him off, “It will be good for you”, she wished for him to focus on his studies and he quotes “no distractions there”.
As he walked past the hallway down to meet the person who will be welcoming him, he felt his nerves rise. In a casual manner, one of the head teachers of his dorm greets him, why did he feel the need to worry so much. They toured him through various places; in their short time together, the rules and policies of the school were explained. It slipped past him completely, as he stared at the teacher who was showing him around; their lips moved but Jeno didn't hear a thing.
The teacher dropped Jeno off at his homeroom. The morning day went as expected, he was introduced to everyone and took a seat by the back. His desk-mate introduced himself as Shotaro, a foreign exchange student from Japan who was staying here for a while.
After classes finish up for the afternoon Shotaro explains that he couldn't accompany Jeno to lunch due to his dance club. The guilty face he showed Jeno made him believe the other boy was a softhearted person. Jeno assured him that he understood, assured him it wasn't a big deal at all and Shotaro promised they would get food later.
The packed cafeteria didn’t provide a single spot open. The worst thing about moving to a new school; everyone already has their group. Dejected but not surprised, he made his way around.
While waiting in line he sees a beautiful boy sitting at the very end of the cafeteria hall. Definitely a person who stands out among all the identical uniforms. Jeno trails his eyes from the boy’s slender wrist all the way to his deer-like eyes, at that moment he realizes the boy is already looking back at him. Jeno notices he had whispered something to his friend, stood up and left. Students were staring at him all day but this one makes him feel odder than before.
Something stirs in Jeno when he thinks of this strange first impression, he was absolutely captivated by that stranger. The soft slope of his nose and his sleek black hair. A lean figure that had his uniform accentuate all his good points. An extremely attractive face that one could never forget. His mother's words echo ‘there will be no distractions there.’
That boy was the most distracting of all.
__
Jeno finishes his first day with no trouble or at least he hopes so; picking up the rest of his things he finally heads back to his dorm. He had to stop another student to ask for directions, a tall lanky boy who spoke softly, they pointed at the 2nd year’s dorms. Saying his thanks he disappears.
Jeno opened the door to his unfamiliar roommate. There was a short pause until his roommate reacted, immediately greeting him. “Mark,” he introduced himself, came here all the way from Canada, he was excited to finally have a roommate. At least he was friendly with the way he gave such a boy next door vibe. Jeno worried if he would be stuck living with a terrible roommate but he's glad Mark doesn't seem the type.
Mark catches him up on everything, from the worst classes to the best people on campus. All the special spots he likes to hang out in. A cram lesson straight away on how to survive and keep your sanity at the dorms.
Throughout his whole “best people on campus” review, Jeno realizes it wasn't just about who was the friendliest and outgoing but about who stood out in the school’s rankings as well.
Jeno heard Mark mention a name to him briefly, Na Jaemin; that he was always at the top and while they don't know each other much, Mark acknowledges him. That he was quite beautiful, Mark gave an awkward laugh when it came out of his mouth and quickly moved on.
In Jeno’s memories the person he saw earlier must have been Jaemin.
They stay up talking for a while, he finds out Mark does many extracurriculars all while keeping his top ten ranking. Jeno guesses that some people are just built differently. When he asked Mark how he handled it all, Mark gave a confused laugh, “I like being busy” and walked off to the bathroom.
The older one promises to introduce Jeno to some of his friends later, he wants Jeno to have more company here. Turning over to sleep, Mark wishes him a goodnight. Jeno’s first day officially ends.
__
By chance or luck, the next day his homeroom teacher introduces him to the beautiful boy he saw yesterday. Na Jaemin, top student, with hundreds of awards to his name just as Mark described. It shocks him that the boy he saw on his first day is the exact one standing in front of him now.
With an academic record that would make any regular student cry. Competent in all avenues and charming yet cold. These are the bits and pieces of information he’s gathered since he got here. There's plenty of whispers and gossip about this boy.
Jaemin was even more attractive up close; he carried himself in an elegant way. He welcomed Jeno in a practiced manner. Jeno thinks Jaemin must be used to welcoming many new students before him. The teacher explains that Jaemin would be the one who's going to help him get settled in school.
Jaemin, who looked a bit cold, slowly started, “My name is Jaemin, let me know if there’s anything you need”. Still he was quite mesmerizing when he spoke so Jeno only replies with a quick yes.
“I’ll show you around” he continues on, already walking ahead. Jeno does a little run to catch up.
Pointing out different places like the study rooms, library, snack bar, the fields. He was showing Jeno all of the things that they missed when the teachers showed him around. Jeno wasn't sure if he was intimidated or if he was struck silent with how fast he was explaining everything.
When Jaemin talks it doesn't last too long, sometimes he’ll add extra hand gestures but not much else. They got through everything like he's done this a million times.
He didn't have anything in particular to talk to Jaemin about, staying silent for long periods. Such a shame though, Jeno wanted badly to continue what little conversations they have.
“I’ll walk you back to your room”. Dumbly Jeno didn't register what Jaemin offered, it didn't occur to him that Jaemin would actually drop him off. A gentleman true to his looks, Jeno concludes he must be good deep inside too.
Stopping right before Jeno’s room, “You’re right here”, Jaemin surprises Jeno again when he pulls out his phone.
“Let’s exchange numbers in case you need anything” it felt like the ice melted when Jaemin offered first. Jeno gave a small smile and pushed back his messy bangs.
Pocketing his phone with Jeno’s number now on it, the last thing he sees is Jaemin’s back making his way down the hall.
When Jeno enters his room, he flops down on the bed instantly. He doesn't think his mom predicted that the biggest distraction of his life has appeared before him. It takes the form of an ethereal boy like ice, effortlessly alluring paired with an aloof demeanor.
Later on when Jeno mentions to Mark about Jaemin, the older thought Jeno must have been really friendly to have Jaemin act that way. Mark shrugs saying it must have been something about him that made Jaemin drop his guard. Jeno questions back with a noise of confusion, he honestly didn't do much today.
Jeno considers it strange when Mark told him Jaemin doesn't give his number so easily. In bed he’s wracking his brain with the things he’s seen from Jaemin versus what everyone else says. That night Jeno sends a text.
Jeno:
hi jaemin, just making sure I got the right number
Jaemin:
You did Jeno
Goodnight.
__
It’s been a few weeks now since Jeno’s been here. Some nights he can't sleep so he stays up on his phone playing games. He knows that his mother sent him here for better schooling but he’s not doing too good right now.
Jeno figures it's just the stress of a new environment and he’ll catch up. The hours on end of nonstop studying has turned his brain to a slushie.
Break time comes, finally Jeno perks up a little bit. He rubs his face with both hands and does a little stretch.
Shotaro tells him he’s got dance practice again and runs out. He can already see the other boys in class group up. They’re leaving the classroom one by one, Jeno thinks he should get out too. A notification has Jeno pull out his phone, Mark texted that he couldn't eat lunch with Jeno today either. One of his clubs has a tournament coming up and he didn't want to miss preparations.
Jeno didn't want to sit alone either so he bought a package of bread and started to explore.
He arrived in a large field in front of the main building, he spotted Jaemin and some others playing soccer.
After getting Jaemin's number, Jeno never had the courage to text first after. And Jaemin never texted him again. He couldn't bring himself to bother Jaemin with anything stupid so nothing ever happened.
He wanted to see Jaemin again but never found the right chance. They don't have classes together; not even the same clubs or sports. This was a nice chance so he figured he could watch for a while.
Lost in his thoughts, Jeno zones out for a bit to only notice the ball flying at him just before impact. On instinct he head-butts the ball and catches it in his hand. He saves himself from embarrassment but it doesn't stop his head from throbbing.
Jaemin came running over almost instantaneously. Jeno had expected he would grab the ball and a simple ‘sorry’ but instead he looked worried, it washes over his face.
“Are you okay...” Jeno could see his hands reaching out to rub the spot, it was so gentle he didn't expect this, given they haven't spoken since Jaemin dropped him off at the dorms.
“Just avoid the ball next time” with furrowed eyebrows he checked the spot, “no need to do tricks”.
It rendered Jeno speechless , “It's not swollen now but I'm going to take you to the infirmary”.
Jeno makes a surprised noise , he doesn't think his slight head bump deserves a trip over there, he only manages a “you don’t have to”, but Jaemin tells the other boys he’ll be back before returning to Jeno. Smoothly he grabs Jeno’s wrists and walks ahead.
Many say Jaemin keeps to himself, an unapproachable guy with a small inner circle. That guy right now is leading Jeno to the nurses’ office. Jeno can feel his heart pounding with every step they take. It’s not weird right?
He doesn't have to be kind to Jeno and if he really needed he could have gone on his own. But it’s the sentiment of the whole ordeal. It confuses Jeno how a guy who’s been described like that is showing him the complete opposite. Jaemin wasn't even the one who kicked the ball.
__
The infirmary smelled of antiseptics, the open window lights hitting the white clean walls. The brightness makes Jeno wince.
Jaemin, who pointed at the bed, went into another room. It was a bit inaudible but he made out the words as best he can “I’ll get you an ice pack, wait for me”.
“Lay down Jeno, I don't want you getting a concussion...” he mumbled quietly. The ice pack in one hand the other leading Jeno to lay down on the pillows. Jeno’s hair fans out as he looks up to the other who sits on a stool nearby. Moving Jeno’s hair away from the bruised spot he carefully applies the ice pack.
It wasn't like Jeno was bleeding or broke a limb; he simply just had a bump. But the way Jaemin was treating him, if getting hit with a ball means Jaemin would personally take care of him, he would gladly take another.
On the bedside chair, Jaemin sits by his side and starts a moment later, “I thought you would need help but you haven't really texted lately”.
“I didn't want to bother you” Jeno with his sheepish expression forced a smile.
“No you should bother me, it's what I’m here for” a small smile appeared on Jaemin’s face. Maybe he really got a concussion; his brain is feeling dizzy. The ice pack is so cold but he can feel his face heating up.
“You sure ?” He couldn't let himself be bothersome to someone he just met; it wouldn't feel right.
Raising his hands, Jaemin cards through Jeno’s hair. The action almost made Jeno flinch but he caught himself. The sunlight is blocked by Jaemin’s silhouette. The glowing image of this Jaemin will be burned forever in his mind definitely.
“Yeah...talk to me often, bother me”
Jeno layed in bed that night replaying the day’s events. After making sure Jeno was okay, the other left quietly; leaving him in a daze. Their conversation replays in his head over and over. Remembering Jaemin’s soothing voice, he shuts his eyes.
__
Facing the reality that his grades are worsening Jeno seeks out Mark as his studying partner. Given they’re roommates, sometimes he’ll tag along with Mark to the library. In the back of his head he thinks of Jaemin telling him it was okay for him to reach out for things like this but he throws that thought out.
Today was one of their study hangouts. And for a while it was going well until his eyes gave out from staring at books for too long. As he remains there in a daze, in the corner of his eyes, spots Jaemin walking towards them.
Jaemin sets down his coffee as Mark looks up at him and peers at Jeno with raised eyebrows. Mark doesn't say anything though and whips back to his laptop.
“I’ll bother you then.”
Actually Jeno doesn't know what to expect when he’s with Jaemin but he was so natural in his approach that Jeno couldn't help dropping his guard and going with the flow. The other pulls out his books, seating himself next to Jeno.
The research paper that should have been started a week earlier was worth half his grade, only 100 words in, the rest of the word doc empty. While he’s good at winging these things, it’s still stressing him out, gathering his thoughts, he prepares to look for some books.
With all of Jeno’s movements, Jaemin finally looks over.
Whispering the best he can, “I'll be back”.
“No I’ll come with you” and Jaemin gets up too. A little odd but okay, Jeno reasons he could use the help anyway.
They’ve only interacted a handful of times but each moment makes Jeno rethink a lot of things about himself. Being alone like this might be the worst or best thing ever.
Jeno, who had his arms full of books, couldn't reach the top shelf right now. He was preparing to put his things down to grab the last one only to find Jaemin already reaching up for the book, closing in the space between them. Feeling his back hit the shelves from being pushed forward, Jaemin's thick hands hold his waist but hurriedly he drops them.
Finding his balance he looks up to see Jaemin flush red from his ear till his neck. Jeno accidentally let out a small noise. The other simply backs away trying to act like normal. It's hard to tell but Jaemin looked almost shy.
“Thanks...”
“Yeah, thought you needed a hand”
This exchange was so short lived but the spot where the other touched pricks at him. The cologne scent Jaemin wore lingers in his mind.
Yeah okay Jeno comes to his conclusion. While looking at Jaemin’s kind smile, taking the books from him and offering to hold some. He admits he’s definitely into Na Jaemin.
__
They don’t share a class together but at least he can catch a glimpse of Jaemin when he walks past the hall. It’s always his favorite part of the morning when Jaemin waves to him through the classroom door.
After the library get-together that day, Jaemin always came to see him. He feels his phone vibrate just when lunch is about to start.
Jaemin
hey let’s go to lunch together, i’ll buy
Jeno
are you bribing me to hang with you
Jaemin
if i get to see you (:
Jeno
no i’m kidding i'll meet you
In Jeno's rush out of the classroom he didn't notice someone sneaking up behind him. “Hey!” a loud voice rings through, slapping his back with a thump. Holding his hands to his chest, almost having an outer body experience, he turns around to a familiar face. It was the one and only person who’s here to pick him up.
“Jaemin you scared me” half a whine, half endeared. He didn't think a serious person like Jaemin would joke like this, a misconception on his part.
“I’ll keep surprising you, look forward to it” like a promise, he hopes that he’ll keep learning more about Jaemin like this. The thrumming of his chest lets him know he wants to return the favor just as much.
Just outside the school’s gates, at the end corner a small store sits where students could buy snacks, Jaemin offered to get Jeno something, “Pick whatever you want... I'll buy it for you”.
Jeno hesitated a little, he could buy his own just fine but he felt Jaemin’s hands pushed his waist. It was a light feather touch but he gave into it wishing the other boy kept it there longer. Grabbing snacks here and there; whatever that looked good.
Jeno pointed to something, “Jaemin do you like this?”
“If you like it, I like it”
“I’m being serious”
“So am I”
Is his natural disposition to flirt? Whoever said this man was cold, hasn't seen this side of Jaemin in their life. The side of Jaemin that makes him embarrassed but charmed. He likes this idea so much; knowing Jaemin in the way others don’t.
Jeno felt Jaemin grab the snacks from his arms and ask the worker to ring them up.
With their snacks secured, Jaemin tells Jeno they’ll be going somewhere new today, a place he didn’t tell Jeno yet. Jaemin explained that this was a place to relax when studying was too much.
Cheerfully, he walks Jeno through. With raised eyebrows, a smug face, “not a lot of kids know about it” in a matter-of-fact tone “but I’ll share it with you”.
Jaemin is weirdly funny. He doesn't think it was supposed to be funny but he breaks into a small laugh anyway.
A small garden perched behind a giant brick building, Jeno could see the light filter through the trees, it made for such a pretty scene. The flower beds had so many colors filling it, he could tell the people who work on this place really cherishes it.
Sitting down on a bench, Jaemin followed right after. Happily Jeno opened a small bag of chips.
“Jaemin, try it,” he held out a small chip right in front of Jaemin’s face. A small smile breaks from his face, instantly he moves forward making Jeno pull away. Jaemin bit him.
Unbelievable. He wipes his fingers off on the other’s shirt, “Jaemin no, only eat the chip next time”
Mhm Jaemin absentmindedly replied. Right then, he puts his head in the crook of Jeno’s shoulders. He could hear Jaemin breathing out a long sigh.
“Are you okay ?” There is concern in his voice. Jaemin acknowledges Jeno’s question but never answers. Alright he doesn't have to share if he doesn't want to.
“yeah just school stuff ... nothing I can’t handle”
“I see...well we’ve only known each other for a short while but you can count on me if you need anything” Showing Jaemin his crescent eye-smile.
Jeno always wants to smile when he’s with Jaemin.
He hopes that it comforted Jaemin if only a little bit. After a moment he feels Jaemin’s head bury deeper into his neck. Responding, Jeno leaned his head on Jaemin’s.
“If you’re having a hard time, just do it again Jaemin”
Jeno softly patted his thigh, he could feel Jaemin's breathing hitch then let go. They stay in silence for a while, all the way till lunch ends.
__
Jeno and Jaemin were inseparable as of late. Having lunch together, snack trips, getting together during break. They couldn't be separated even if they were in different classrooms it seems.
In recent news, it turns out midterms are coming right around the corner. The bare minimum that he’s been doing up till now is catching up to him. Jeno thinks about how disappointed his mom would be if there’s no results.
Their class is currently on a short break. Another student gets Jeno's attention. He sees Jaemin coming in with a small stack of books. All the while hearing several students whispering to each other; Jeno doesn't mind them as he instead greets Jaemin.
The desk right next to his, Jaemin sits himself down wordlessly setting down his books. He signals for Jeno to open the top book. When he looked over, a small note was stuck inside. ‘For midterms (:’
With his hands perched on his chin. “Did you want to study together? I can tutor you too if you need it” with a mischievous grin, his eyes trailing down to Jeno’s lips. That habit of his when talking makes Jeno’s heart leap tenfold.
“Sure I’ll let you know” while trying to control his expression he punched Jaemin’s arm lightly, “It’s also my excuse to hang with you more”.
What was Jeno supposed to make of that comment?
“Stop that,” slapping Jaemin’s shoulders, he feels like laughing but the other makes him shy too. The flirty nature of these silly lines, he won’t say it aloud but he finds it charming.
__
Na Jaemin top 5 in school, beauty and brains. Perfect beyond comprehension, well to the school that is. Contrary to popular belief it is really all about ‘faking till you make it’. At Least Jaemin thinks so.
Jaemin gets a text one day; Jeno takes him up on his offer to study alone. With the sudden realization he rushes back to his dorm. First things first get rid of his roommate, second clean up a little, it’s a disaster in this room.
His roommate is sleeping on the bed soundly; not anymore. Slapping his arms harshly, “Hyuck wake up!”
“What do you want !!!” pissed off that he was awakened from a perfectly good nap.
“Hyuck please... go somewhere else” breaking the news to him immediately.
“You’re joking...”
“I’m having someone over so you gotta go”
Haechan gives him an incredulous look, “go now... we’re gonna study” as Jaemin makes a shooing motion with his hands. Hyuck makes for a nasty gaze at him. Not that Jaemin minds, there’s more important things right now.
“You owe me Jaemin” grabbing some of his stuff he’s still mumbling but at this point. Jaemin blocks him out.
Not a moment later the door slams and he could hear Hyuck yelling down the hall, “ not like you’ll study anyway”.
Hyuck has it all wrong; Jeno came over sitting down on Jaemin’s old bed with a stack of books, true to their goal he goes over work problems.
Jeno silently did his schoolwork. Yes Jeno should work on passing midterms but also he only talks to Jaemin when he needs workbook answers. Getting antsy, craving his attention, seems like Jaemin is just no good today.
Doodling on Jeno’s arm as the other reads through chapters. Nothing, absolutely no reaction. The little heart trails that adorn Jeno’s arm goes unnoticed.
“Jeno, are you having fun?” it came out as less of a question and more sarcastic. To be fair Jaemin offered to tutor him yet no tutoring is being done. A pout forming on his lips.
“Jaemin are you having fun?”
Jeno plays with Jaemin’s hands. Eyes still trained on his schoolwork. It kinda made Jaemin disappointed, he wished they fooled around a bit more but it still makes him content. Mentally he slaps himself to save the flirting for later, hopefully.
When he checked his phone for the time, it was already past curfew. Most students would have returned to their rooms already but Jeno knocked out on Jaemin’s bed an hour before.
Nope he doesn't have the heart to wake Jeno up when he looks so comfortable.
Pulling out his phone, he texts Hyuck ‘ hey don't come back today’
‘ are you trying to fuck him’
‘no stupid...just didn't want to wake him up and make him go back’
‘you’re hopeless Jaemin...hope you know’
‘I owe you one’
Jaemin looked over at Jeno who was on his bed, sleeping so peacefully. The soft casting of Jeno’s lashes on his cheek, his chest which rises and falls in a soft rhythm. He feels silly for being disappointed not talking much today but he gets to look at Jeno like this now. This is worth it.
Jaemin with the lightest touch tried to tuck Jeno’s hair behind his ears.
He wanted to kiss Jeno so bad, to lean over to give a small peck on Jeno’s forehead. Only an arms length away but they were so far from each other in this moment. But maybe next time, he didn't want Jeno feeling uncomfortable.
His heart could burst right then and there with how beautiful Jeno looks, he thinks he wants to confess soon. How would he bring it up? And if Jeno doesn't feel the same?
Reasoning with himself that he should give it more time, only a soft goodnight was whispered before Jaemin lays himself on the floor.
Maybe being close to Jeno was good enough.
__
Midterms are coming in a few days.
Hyuck has officially banned Jeno from coming over because Jaemin has kicked him out too many times, ‘go somewhere else’ Hyuck motioned him away. As if Jeno knew he also mentioned he felt really bad about it. Of course Jeno would.
Jeno offers the perfectly working library, but Jaemin claims it's not the same and he doesn't like it there. When asked why, he makes up an excuse, it’s not comfortable there.
The other option is Jeno’s room, more like their only option.
Jeno didn't have the heart to kick Mark out if he was ever hanging out in their room. If Jaemin was lucky, Mark would have club business to attend to so he wouldn't be in.
Jaemin likes spending time with Jeno though so he’ll take what he can get. It so happens a chance appears today; Mark won't be coming back today.
Often Jaemin would stay way past curfew to study with Jeno, the other says that he shouldn't break the rules too much. The thing with having all the teachers like him is that they turn a blind eye to small things like this. Jaemin just thinks of it as a perk.
They're on Jeno's bed together as Jaemin whines about not wanting to go back. Jeno who laid down looking very comfy versus Jaemin who was still sitting upright.
“After midterms, then we can go hang out again...somewhere not in our rooms” he turns to Jeno, peering down at his lying figure, “If you want to”.
“Of course I want to”
Lowering himself down, Jaemin lays facing Jeno. Reciprocating, Jeno also turns his body, showing a slight smile resting his head on his arms.
In a barely silent room, the slight sounds of their breathing mixed with their voices makes him want to be closer.
"hey can I kiss you"
Taken by the surprise request, Jeno's eyes widen by the thought that Jaemin would ask. His small nod makes Jaemin lean in closer and closer. Maybe chances don't come by like this.
A soft peck on the lips, it was so quick, so fleeting but to Jaemin who kissed Jeno, he felt the happiness bubble up in his heart. What happens next only Jeno can tell him.
“I’m sorry .... I wanted to do that so bad '' the shyness in his voice trying to explain to Jeno makes Jeno grow fonder than he already is.
Jeno on the other hand felt dizzy, the fuzzy feeling in his stomach. Na Jaemin gave him a kiss, that fact in bold letters, flashing in his mind. Ah...so the flirting wasn't just jokes after all. So Jaemin can just kiss him freely and that makes Jeno even more lightheaded.
“You can do it again” Jeno pulled Jaemin down to lay on top of him. The body heat that radiated from him made Jeno melt.
Fixing Jeno’s bangs a little, Jaemin starts with a gentle peck, one becomes two, two becomes five, eventually losing count. Slowly tracing the kisses down Jeno's unmarked neck, he could feel Jeno shiver at his touches.
The tiny sighs emitting from the body below him makes his brain melt instantly. Jeno’s eyes were glassy, looking up at Jaemin in a trance. “You’re okay right?”.
“I’m really happy”
Jaemin shakes his head, in a small whisper, “I’m sorry I feel like we’re doing this in the wrong order” a small smile appears on his face. Stopping for the night, they were afraid Mark would return. Jaemin moved to lay down beside Jeno again. In response Jeno cuddled right up to him, laying his head on Jaemin’s chest.
Like a silent agreement, they put off what happened tonight for another time. But they’ve got a feeling they’re on the same page anyway.
Neither wants to fall asleep though, in the silence of Jeno’s room only the sounds of the outside world remains.
Leaning down real close, his breath hitting the shell of Jeno’s ear, “Since I've been tutoring you all month, how about if you get a high score on midterms .... I’ll take you on a date”
A smile broke from Jeno’s lips. In a sleepy tone Jaemin could tell Jeno was about ready to stop answering him. “deal, if I pass let’s go on a date”, he whispers as his last words for the night.
__
By the board, there were students running up there to check their results, some with a nervous approach, some with excited faces.
Jeno, who looked just like the others before him, thankfully had left the board feeling very satisfied. The tight grip he had on his hands loosened, the first person that appeared in his mind was Jaemin, the one he wanted to share the good news to.
They had a deal on the line, as Jeno texted him, showing off his high scores, Jaemin praised that it was all on Jeno; he only helped out here and there.
Jaemin
so our date is on (:
Jeno
so surprise me okay :D
__
The promised day arrives quickly. When classes were officially announced to be over, a text ring signals to Jeno that Jaemin was waiting outside the school gates.
“Shall we?” holding his hands out like an open invitation. Jeno clasps his hands over Jaemin and walks forward just like that. He misses the blush that creeps over the other’s cheeks; he didn't expect Jeno would take his hand.
Pulling into a little corner of the busy streets it makes Jeno stick even closer to the other boy. In front of him a neon arcade appears, with blinding lights and signs everywhere, it was littered with claw games and gacha machines.
Inside, Jeno spots a worker stocking up prizes. “So you decided to take me here?”
“Thought you would enjoy it” with their hands still interlocked, Jaemin’s smug gaze indicates that he was right.
After a few games, Jeno notices that Jaemin is letting him win all of them. That's not fun. Jaemin, who is the best student in school, is surprisingly not at all competitive right now. When he scored a point, Jaemin would clap and cheer, praising him at every chance. While it looks like they're tied at some point, Jaemin always finds a way to throw the game at the last minute.
To motivate Jaemin to at least try, an idea popped up. Curiously he turns to Jaemin with a playful smile.
“Jaemin, how about a bet?”
“Why can’t I just let you win it all” a small pout appears on his lips. So his theory was right.
“How about if you win this one, I’ll give you a kiss.”
Bingo. Jaemin’s eyes widen and he nods his head, “deal”.
All it took to kiss Jeno was winning this one game, punching machine, with the highest score surpassing 1000 on it’s screen. Jeno guesses they're both evenly matched in the physical department, but who knows. Jeno might get a kiss if he throws the game, he wouldn't feel too bad.
And if Jeno’s heart thumped at the way Jaemin’s fist made an impact on the punching bag, he didn't try to show it. Once the machine updated its leader-board, Jaemin, leading at the top, types in his name ‘nana’. Jeno missed the top spot just by a few points it seems.
“Come here Jeno” sparkly eyed, and fast hands. Grabbing Jeno’s chin and tilting him up, Jaemin captures Jeno's plush lips on his own. When they let go, Jeno could feel the back of his ears reddening.
In this giant space, among rows and rows of bright flashy arcade games, pastel claw machines, Jaemin jokes with him happily, holds his hands tightly, and teases him sweetly.
Jaemin shines every time he scores; he would raise his eyebrows at Jeno at once when he won. Jaemin would turn to him and lean in to capture Jeno’s lips. But once wasn't good enough for him and he went in for a few pecks after. Jeno doesn't think he can survive tonight. He shouldn't have offered because tomorrow he’ll surely wake up with swollen lips.
“Jaemin, no” he whines, “one kiss per game, don't try to cheat”
“Honestly I'd rather just kiss you”
Jeno slaps his arm slightly “stop that” he wrinkles his nose at Jaemin’s forwardness.
If there’s one thing he’s learned today, Na Jaemin will do what he likes, get what he wants. Jeno forgets everything else when he’s with him.
Pulling out his phone he realized one critical thing, “Jaemin we missed curfew...”
So they start the rush back to the dorms laughing because they saw it coming but didn't think it would happen. They figured the front gates would be locked of course so they found another way. Hyuck, who has mastered the art of sneaking out multiple times a week, knows exactly what to do to get them back in. Seeing a notification pop up on his phone, now Jaemin owes him two favors. He’s not below begging for help if he can spend time with Jeno.
Breathing a little heavy after rushing back to their rooms. Jaemin dropped Jeno off first. With a shy smile, Jaemin told him that he had fun. Jeno nodded in agreement that it was the most fun he had in a while. If the constant thumping in his heart is anything to go by, he’s absolutely enamored.
Quickly Jaemin pecked Jeno’s cheek one last time, the last kiss of the night.
“See you Jeno”, before sneaking off to his own room.
__
Everyone has been looking forward to leaving campus in the next week to come. The long awaited spring break in which students are able to forget school just for a bit and do something fun for a change.
During their lunch, Jaemin had dragged him to the garden again. At their usual bench, Jaemin put his head on Jeno’s shoulders.
A moment later he starts,“Are you going home for spring break?”
“I don't know Jaemin, depends on what you want to ask”
“So you know what I'm about to ask ?”
“I just know you.”
“Stay here with me for spring break ...since there’s no one around we can just hang out” , a shy appearance that he’s never seen on Jaemin before makes his gaze soften. Jaemin wasn't looking Jeno in the eyes, only playing with his fingers.
Jeno thinks it would be nice to talk things over to figure out where they stand while he stays with Jaemin.
“Okay I’ll stay”
Jaemin beamed, overjoyed with Jeno’s answer; it wasn't like he was going to tell him no. If he could make Jaemin this happy by just staying with him, he’ll do it for as long as Jaemin will have him.
By the time spring break rolls around, the campus is deserted except for a few other students who chose not to go home.
Jaemin, who had school errands to run, told Jeno he’ll meet him later. Putting his phone back in his pockets, he hurries to return to the dorms. There's not much to do at the dorms if he’s being honest. Mark went home to his family for their break and left Jeno a room to himself.
The anticipation makes him restless, like he was expecting something when they’ve hung out alone so many times before. All this space to share with Jaemin; the thought echoes in his mind.
Somehow this week will be different, he knows they’ll be different by the end of it.
With those thoughts going haywire in his brain he gives up. He closes his eyes for what he thinks is 5 minutes. Jeno wakes to an already darkened dorm room, the last of golden hour illuminating the side of his face. Jeno barely caught it but a knock rang through the silence shortly after. Raising his head up, the door opens ajar making a creaking noise. “I brought bubble tea as an offering”, a sheepish grin greets him.
Jaemin settled down happily along Jeno’s bed, not a care in the world. With his bag full of snacks, he puts on Penthouse. All the while info-dumping, telling Jeno how he hasn't caught up yet because of midterms. When Jaemin likes something he will talk about it a lot; in an enthusiastic manner, an excited manner, a cute manner; even if it's about a psychological thriller. Jeno decides he will happily sit and listen even if he knows nothing about it at all. He turns to Jeno promising they’ll watch something Jeno likes next time.
They've been at it for 3 hours now, Jeno largely underestimated how long Jaemin can stay immobile for. With Jeno splayed across Jaemin’s chest, sometimes Jaemin would comment on each scene; his lips would brush Jeno’s ear, the slight touch gives Jeno goosebumps.
Pinching Jaemin’s sides, “ow Jeno, what ?” “Jaemin it’s been 3 hours” snaking his arms around Jaemin’s waist while the other rubs small circles just above the small of his back. “Let’s do something else”
“Yeah? What do you want to do, hmm? '' nuzzling his nose into Jeno’s hair , in that raspy voice of his. Jeno isn't known to be as sly or cunning; many people who have come across him would agree. At this moment, Jaemin would disagree.
“Jaemin I wanna ask...” looking down on Jaemin while he’s propped on his elbows, “are we together?” He wanted some kind of confirmation not just by touch but by words too.
Jaemin raised his head to meet Jeno’s line of sight, with hooded eyes and a low voice he answered, “ yeah, I want you to be mine...”
“You took so long to say it“ a small pout forming on his lips.
“Okay I’ll say it many more times than just this” the smirk on Jaemin’s lips doesn't go unnoticed by Jeno. Teasing Jeno must be his hobby, he concludes.
Laying Jeno down gently on his back, his hair fans out messily. Jaemin reaches to tuck Jeno’s bangs behind his ears. Looking down at Jeno like this, he’s absolutely obsessed. Not many out there will have this privilege of Getting to have Jeno.
Caged between each side of Jaemin’s arms, Jeno can only hold the younger’s wrists with his hands. The dreamy gaze that Jaemin gives him makes his heart burst. Surely he would give Jaemin his everything just by the way Jaemin makes him feel with his gaze.
Jaemin dives in, hungrily, he kisses down the length of Jeno’s neck. In the space of their quiet room, the small noises that Jeno makes lets Jaemin know to keep going. A satisfied hum as Jaemin runs his hands down Jeno’s arms, such a small touch makes him shiver.
“Jaemin, you’re kissing everywhere else except here” a small pout appears. He was always so patient but maybe not today, his arms pull Jaemin’s neck up to connect their lips. He could feel Jaemin smiling into it and when Jaemin's lips moved softly against Jeno's; he sighed deeply into the kiss. He can feel Jaemin's fingers squeezing against his waist sending shivers up his back.
Its fucking addicting.
The Jaemin who’s here with him right now, under his fingertips Jeno exhales from the breath he’s been holding. The sweet cologne that faded slightly now washes over his senses and Jaemin’s large hands covering his own, how can he ever pass Jaemin up.
Clearing his throat, a flush spreads across his cheeks. Jaemin pauses in time with Jeno’s gesture, like he’s attuned to him completely, messy hair strewn across his delicate face, “what’s wrong?”
“Is this how the rest of our break is going to go”
Pressing their chests together, “i'm down,” raising his eyebrows with absolute confidence , the spaces between them become invisible. Jaemin is insufferable, he’s lovable; the different facets of him exist together in the spaces of their intertwined bodies. Only Jeno can experience all these sides of him, a gaze so piercing that when Jaemin looks at him it gives him chills; he wants to be with Jaemin for a long time.
__
The indescribable happiness he feels in his heart waking up to Jeno. He wishes they were roommates just so he can experience this every morning.
Jeno laid there on Jaemin's chest, breathing peacefully, his body rising, falling in rhythm. The other didn’t stir for a while in his arms .
It wasn't until he felt Jeno nudge him slightly that he knew the other awoke.
“You awake?”
“Didn't wanna wake you”
“I see” with a sleepy voice, Jeno rests his head back down. Endearing, Jaemin kisses the top of Jeno’s head, running his hand through the other’s messy hair.
Staring at the other for a long time, he doesn't say anything; just basking in Jeno’s embrace.
“What are you thinking?” his deep voice rings in Jeno’s ears.
“Somehow when I first met you, maybe I got the wrong impression...I didn't think we’d end up like this ”, Jeno’s truthful demeanor while running his hands up Jaemin’s arms, gives him goosebumps.
He continued with those sleepy eyes and kind voice, ”I always wondered why you were so nice to me in the beginning ” he rubs his nose to Jaemin’s shoulder muffling his voice, “they all said you were cold”.
Jaemin takes all of that in, knowing Jeno didn't remember him. He never expected Jeno to.
Truthfully , Jaemin breaks into his playful voice, “Actually you don’t remember this but back in middle school near a certain bus stop...“.
It was such a chance encounter.
“there was a boy waiting there, it’s embarrassing to admit but I cried that day. “ As he told the story his voice became less playful from when he started, '' I can’t even remember why but...”
Brushing Jeno’s bangs off his forehead, his gentle voice resonated throughout the room, “ you approached me back then when lots of other kids didn’t...You told me back then that it was okay to have bad days, and that I can try again the next day.”
The fondness in which he retells Jeno this memory makes him warm. “You patted me on the back and offered me a snack. You didn't even know me back then but it really cheered me up.”
“I think I remember that...it was my last one”
Jeno guessed it slipped his mind but somehow like finding a lost toy or digging up a small time capsule, he knew back then that seeing a kind looking boy so upset, wouldn't it be better if he smiled?
He was so thankful that Jaemin never let this memory go. They might not have developed such a close relationship. Jeno wasn't the type to reach out to others first when he was young and like a habit it continued till now, he also wondered why he initiated back then.
“I don't think I ever saw you after that” Jeno's reply was a bit sullen, they looked at each other at that moment.
“I wish i got to see you again before I moved away, but here you are appearing in my life again “
Jeno didn't know what to say. His memory failed him but something clicked then; a part of him was so drawn to Jaemin in the beginning. They were magnetic to each other. It was like that then, it’s like that now.
Laughable in the way Jaemin finishes up his story, “On your little backpack, at the bottom a small name tag was there, I held your name to heart.”
Jeno never knew that such a fleeting comment ; from wanting to cheer a stranger up, would bring him to someone who’s probably the love of his life.
“I wasn't sure if it was you...but I was sure in the garden that you were the person I wanted to meet again”
“I’m glad I called out to you then” with Jeno’s palms flat against Jaemin’s shoulders he pushes himself up to kiss Jaemin’s lips tenderly. Feeling Jaemin’s arms wrap around his waist, eventually settling there. Jeno is certain again and again, no one else can do.
It can only be Jaemin.
“I’m glad you found me again”.