You gotta be one hell of a kid to pull up to school, on a Monday, in one of the most luxurious car brands known to man. Jeong Yunho, ever attuned to his own privileged persona drove up to the bleak campus in his new 2022 Lamborghini Aventador SVJ– along with his pretty best friend riding in the front.

It was unbelievably stupid for a seventeen year old to impulsively spend over seven hundred million Won of his inheritance on a sports car. Geonho tried to bargain with him, to get a less.. flashy car, or even just one with class.

Like Geonho’s black and beloved Bentley Bentayga.

Nah. Yunho preferred the **** roar of the V12 engine and the cat-eye headlights of his custom-coloured Aventador, the stark blue clashing with the bleak prep school environment.

“Yo, Yunho-ssi !”

There he was, Park Seonghwa. Shouting from across the parking lot, he jogged over to the two, his sparkly smile glimmering in the sunshine.

“You like my new coupe ?” Yunho hollered, swarms of underclassmen and fellow seniors beginning to group up with their phones to take pictures. Yunho could already see the headlines:

Chairman’s Charming Brother, Jeong Yunho, Pulling Up to Class With No Class, Only Flash.

Too long ? Yeah. Thought so.

“It’s ******* amazing.” Seonghwa praised, leaning back to admire the gorgeous carbon-fibre structure. “My favorite thing, though,” Hwa started, before lunging over to the side, “this ****** on the right side. What’s his deal– attempting nonchalance ? It ain’t working.”

Yunho shrugged, tapping his fingernail against the thick glass. “He wants the attention, too. Might as well spoon-feed it to him.” He joked, opening the scissor doors to let Mingi out.

“Your door, my dear.” Yunho purred, theatrically moving around to assist Mingi out of the car like a princess.

Mingi stepped out, dramatically adjusting his uniform before Yunho presented him.

“Here he is, boys, the one and only–”

“Get on your knees, -----. Worship this dirt I walk on.” Mingi interrupted, his coarse demand eliciting mock-shock gasps from the two. Now this was their dynamic. Always and forever will Mingi raise his acts for the entertainment of others.

“****, man, you didn’t even give me the chance to introduce you.” Yunho scowled, earning a playful punch from the elder. Seonghwa watched the entire charade between the two of them with a raised brow and a skeptical look.

“–seriously, Yunho-ah, I spend one day away from you, and you spend 700,000,000 Won on a ******* sports car !!” Mingi shook Yunho by the shoulders.

Seonghwa shook his head. “You two argue like my Mothers’. Except you two are like some sort of… spunky… gay couple.”

Both Yunho and Mingi froze, becoming timid and seemingly really shy. “Uh-oh. Looks like I hit a sensitive spot. What did you two get into ?” Hwa raised both brows now, crossing his arms.

Before the two could even conjure up a meager response, Kim Hongjoong scurried over, jumping right on top of Mingi, into his arms.

Both Hwa and Yunho immediately went quiet.

They loved Hongjoong ! But it seems that Hongjoong was quite smitten with Mingi. Would it be bad if Yunho wished that Seonghwa had never chosen to invite Hongjoong to lunch with them ? Would it be bad if Seonghwa admitted to regretting his choice to introduce Hongjoong to his friends ?

Either way, there was no turning back now. No matter how entitled Yunho felt to Mingi, it always felt as if it was being bombarded with Kim Hongjoong.

The same was for Seonghwa, too. The idea of his meet-cute with Hongjoong being shattered by his undeniable attraction to Mingi was heartbreaking.

And to make matters worse, no one could tell if Mingi reciprocated Hongjoong’s feelings, or if he was just being nice. Once again, Yunho was practically entitled to Mingi, especially after what happened on Friday evening.

That weekend, Yunho had spent around an hour getting himself off in the Aventador to the thought of Mingi and his… performance.

The bleak image was burned in his mind, the moment running through his mind like a movie. The session in his car was almost tangible, with the way he could feel, hear and especially see everything in its imagined detail.

There was no denying that Mingi was smoking hot.

And Yunho had been unbelievably bothered ever since.

“Is this your car, Mingi-ssi ? It’s really hot.” Hongjoong purred, leaning against the sleek body and dragging his nails across the carbon. It’s as if he just… didn’t see the key in Yunho’s hands !

The three of them internally cringed. Mingi didn’t even answer, letting Yunho take the wheel. “Um, no– actually, could you get your hands off her ? This is my car, and I’d appreciate if you’d quit scratching the hood. Don’t you know how delicate this carbon fibre is ? You ain’t a gearhead, huh ?” Yunho snarled, his voice unintentionally sounding… mean.

Hongjoong stumbled back, raising his hands off and away from his ride. “Woah, sorry, I didn’t know. You don’t have to talk to me that way.” He defended himself.

“Yeah, lay off, Yuyu. He’s just curious.” Mingi reassured the younger, placing his hand on his lower back. Yunho flinched away from the touch, crossing his arms. “I don’t give two *****. My car costs more than his home.” Yunho whispered into Mingi’s ear, a little scoff escaping his lips right after.

Hongjoong frowned. “I can hear you, y’know. But you’re right. I live in a trailer park not far from here.”

Yunho shut up real quick. He let out a shaky sigh before stepping forwards.
“Listen, Hongjoong, I’m… sorry. I crossed a line. We good ?” Yunho tilted his head, softening his eyes and sharp scowl. Unease ran through the group as the tension became quite heavy. Although the apology seemed half-hearted, he meant it. Sorta.

Hongjoong nodded, before patting his shoulder. “Yeah… You’re good. We’re… good.” He gave a tight, close lipped smile before looking over to Seonghwa. “Seonghwa, we should.. get to first period. We only have a few minutes left until the first bell.”

“Oh, right. Yeah, let’s go. I’ll see you guys later !” Seonghwa smiled, before skipping off with Hongjoong.

As he slipped out of the car with his things, he rushed up to the front door. Before he could knock, Mingi opened the door with a raised brow.

Oh, ****, he looked hot. Also wearing designer, Song Mingi stood in front of him clad in a very… compressing Ralph Lauren polo, along with pleated beige pants and a lovely belt to top it all off.

Yunho thought he would die.

“I thought I told you to be cool off that engine.” Mingi leaned with his hand against the doorway and the other on his hip.

“Not my fault the Lamborghini is loud.”

It’s always a treat when Mingi dresses up. His usual boyish charm is replaced by this hot, masculine persona that would make anyone swoon, and Yunho was absolutely fawning over him. It was downright sinful to feel this way. His crash-hot attitude powered over the rest of him. It was truly captivating.

“You look good, Yunho.” Mingi smiled, his pearly teeth sparkling in the sun. Yunho could swear he heard the ting !

He softly hummed, smiling before being dragged inside and upstairs, straight for Mingi’s bedroom. The mansion was almost silent, save for the ventilation and bouncing echo from the marble floors and walls. Mingi held onto Yunho’s hand, guiding him up the grand staircase that they were so familiar with.
Yunho's casual stride felt so natural, though he knew he was overthinking every step, all for the sake of impressing Mingi today– tonight, really. The pressure was on, and not only because Yunho had to offer an entertaining ride, as well as pull off practically suicidal tricks.

Yunho let himself be pulled, his gaze fixed on Mingi the whole time. His bedroom was as big as Yunho’s, if not bigger. It felt so lived-in, with clothing draped over a plush armchair in the corner and books neatly stacked on the nightstand. The subtle scent of his musky cologne was so sensual, almost animalistic.

Mingi finally released Yunho’s hand, letting him set down his bag. “So,” he began, turning to face the younger. A troublesome smirk played on his lips, a pure indicator that he would be picking up the charm.

“You looked like you were enjoying yourself at lunch. You always get so.. spirited when Hongjoong is around.” His eyes glittered, a challenge in their dark depths.

Yunho sheepishly shook his head, a nervous flutter stirring in his stomach. “Me ? Spirited ? You were the one practically glowing from all of the attention. And don’t tell me you didn’t enjoy being fed.”

“You’re like a prince.” He stepped closer, invading Mingi’s personal space. His gaze dropped to Mingi’s full lips. “You look hungry for something else, though.”

Mingi chuckled, a low, breathy sound that sent a shiver through Yunho. He didn’t back away. Instead, he reached out, his fingertips tracing the collar of his Burberry top, just barely brushing his defined collarbone.

“Mm, well, unlike some people, I don’t try to bite the hand that feeds me.” His tone was light, but his dark eyes held Yunho’s. “Though, I admit you were awfully bold today. It’s almost like you had something to prove.”

Yunho swallowed, the heat rising in his face again. Mingi’s touch was feather-light, barely there, yet it felt like a brand. He leaned in, his gaze dropping to Mingi’s chest. “Maybe I did,” he mumbled, his voice audibly rougher than intended.

The younger’s hand moved to Mingi’s hip, his fingers slightly tightening around the fabric of his pants. He could feel the warmth of the elder’s skin, the tautness of his muscle. He took in a shallow breath, Mingi’s scent overwhelming his senses.

Mingi’s eyes fell to Yunho’s hand placement, but he made no move to remove it. A faint flush touched his own cheekbones, his lips parting slightly. Yunho’s thumb began to gently stroke the small dip there, between his hip and his thigh.

Mingi leaned in, moving to whisper in the younger’s ear, but before he could get a word out, a small, discreet knock interrupted. All of the tension in the bedroom had practically dissolved, as if all of that just didn’t happen.

A soft, polite voice followed the knock. “Mingi-ssi, would you like your tea now, or later ?”

The elders eyes, which were still clouded with intensity, snapped back to focus. He let out an irritated sigh, clearing his throat. “Later, thank you !” He said, forcefully returning the tone, betraying absolutely nothing.

He finally glanced back at Yunho, who had put a bit of distance between them. He had a knowing glint in his eyes, a small smirk painting his face.

“Some things just have to wait, Yunho-ah.”

Frustration coiled tight in Yunho’s gut. God, he’s enjoying this.

“Right.” Yunho responded with a stiff nod. His eyes drifted around the room, trying to find something to focus on so he didn’t seem as awkward as he felt. “Well, it’ll be dark soon. Should we… head out to the warehouse ?” Yunho beamed, his blood rushing at just the thought of adrenaline.

Mingi smiled at him, taking his hand. “Yeah, let’s go.” He nodded, walking him to the door.

“I’ve been looking forward to this all day. You’re gonna love it. My car’s ******* amazing.” Yunho boasted, giving Mingi that roguish look.

The two skipped into Yunho’s bedroom, tossing their bags by the door. The younger went straight for the closet, grabbing a t-shirt for himself, and some shorts. Mingi followed right after, snatching a grey tank top as well as shorts.

They both quickly changed, Mingi walking out of the closet and throwing himself on the Younger’s bed. Yunho had followed after, going to his desk.

He plopped down in his big chair, turning a bit to look at the elder. “I’m gonna play for a little, is that okay with you ?” Yunho sweetly asked, his hand on the mouse.

Mingi looked up from his phone, his eyes flickering to the screen. “Yeah, go ahead.”

Yunho made a little noise in response, turning his attention to the login screen. If Yunho was being honest, VALORANT only stood as background noise to his thoughts. All of the things he had considered this morning were coming back to him, despite his urge to shove it all in the back of his mind.

He’d never quite realized how… off his thoughts about Mingi were. No way this was normal. Best friends don’t **** their **** in front of each other.
And they certainly don’t moan each other’s names when they come.

…Right ?

Best friends don’t sit in each other’s laps and whisper naughty things. They don’t offer little favors when the other is visibly turned on.

Yunho couldn’t let go of the idea. He was sluggishly playing a five-on-five– meant to be focused on a certain objective. Unfortunately, he couldn’t quite remember what his objective actually was. Of course he had to be distracted when he was trying to maintain his rank.

He was vaguely aware of the loud and screechy voices of the gamers he was playing along with, only halfway processing their callouts and bordering demands. Usually, that would be Yunho, but as of now, his focus was diluted.

He slacked off the game, his eyes half-heartedly following the jerky movements of his agent. His fingers worked over the keyboard, the mechanical sounds flooding the uncomfortable sound of the quiet bedroom.

Best friends don’t have ****** tension. Boy best friends don’t.

Did Mingi even like boys ? Because boys certainly liked Mingi. Especially Hongjoong. God, it was unnerving to Yunho to feel like he had to share his best friend’s attention. They were made for each other. So why was Hongjoong so adamant about being a part of that ?

No matter how much fun Yunho had with it, he didn’t like competing with Hongjoong. But his ego is too ******* thick to admit that.

Yunho tried to keep up with his friends ingame, but it felt… off. For some reason, the enemy team seemed to move with almost telepathic coordination, and Yunho didn’t have the energy to counter all of that.

Although, their score ticked up against his team’s. It was hard to ignore, even through his haze. He put in the last bit of effort he could, the final round ending fast.

“Yuyu, can I borrow a hoodie ?” Mingi spoke up, his deep voice cutting through the silence.

Yunho perked up, sparing him a glance. “Huh ? Oh, yeah, of course.” He motioned to the closet before facing the screen again.

The inevitable ‘DEFEAT’ splashed across his monitor just minutes later, ending the match. He leaned back, exhaling softly, staring at the losses. Well, that was another forty minutes of his life that he won’t get back. All for a ****** play.

The rustle of hangers and the soft whisper of fabric came from the closet. Mingi, having retrieved a soft grey hoodie from the rack, paused, his hand snagging on an unfamiliar textile.

He pulled it out, a small, pale blue slip of a thing, adorned with delicate straps and a hint of floral embroidery. It was tiny, almost ridiculously so, and extremely out of place in Yunho’s closet full of t-shirts and designer streetwear.
“What is this ?” Mingi asked, holding it up with a playful smirk, his eyebrows raised in amusement. “You didn’t tell me you had a sister, Yuyu.”

Yunho, still scowling at his monitor, finally turned, his eyes landing on the pale blue garment. His heart lurched. He swallowed, then feigned a shrug, attempting nonchalance. “Must’ve been an old gift. Or a joke.”

He knew it was neither. He’d bought it months ago, tucked it away in the back. It was the unspoken curiosity, something that urged him to explore his softer sides, a femininity he’s never let anyone see.

Mingi walked over, dangling the dress. “It’s… pretty.” He tilted his head, a genuine flicker of curiosity mingling with his usual teasing. “You should put it on.”

Yunho started. “What ?” He tilted his head, his voice a little too high. Outwardly, his shoulders stiffened. Put it on ? He wants me to put it on ? The internal excitement, a tiny spark of real daredevil he hadn’t known was in there, began to flicker.

Mingi was asking him to step into that dress, and he wanted to so badly. But the thought of it, the vulnerability, made him feel exposed. “No way,” he managed, trying for a dismissive laugh that came out strained. “It’s… not my size.”

The elder just chuckled, tossing it gently onto the bed. “Come on. Just for fun. You’ve got that reckless streak, don’t you ? Prove it.” He settled back onto the bed, propping himself up on the palms of his hand, his eyes twinkling. Clearly, he was ready to watch the show.

Yunho hesitated for another beat, then, when an almost inaudible sigh, he stood. His internal grin stretched wider with every step he took towards the dress. Oh, I am so doing this. He picked it up, feeling the light, silky material against his fingertips. He turned his back to Mingi, a quick, almost shy movement, and slipped out of his clothing.

He paused for a fraction of a second, then drew the pale fabric over his torso, feeling it glide over his sweet skin. He adjusted the thin straps over his shoulders and around his back, then fixing the delicate lace onto his chest. It was short, the hem riding up high up his thighs, the fabric clinging in all the right places.

'God, I really did buy this because I wanted to feel pretty. Beautiful, even. It’s ridiculous. I’m Jeong-*******-Yunho, for Christ’s sake.'

He could feel the weight of Mingi’s gaze on his back, and when he finally turned around, he was met with Mingi’s dark expression. At first, it was that usual, casual curiosity, a slight smirk playing on his lips.

But as the elder’s eyes slowly took in the sight of Yunho in that ****** dress, his posture shifted. His smirk softened, a slow realization dawning in his eyes. A subtle widening, a hint of something just a little deeper.

Yunho noticed this, starting to feel a strange surge of confidence. He didn’t even have to say how much he liked it; Mingi was seeing it for himself.

Yunho’s drive home was just as anticlimactic as his whole day was climactic. He was worried to go inside, scared that Geonho would scold him for an hour before sending him to bed. Or worse, Geonho would already be asleep. Yunho didn’t like being in a quiet house, and he certainly didn’t like being alone.

His steps were careful and quiet, his socked feet padding to the back side of the first floor. Since he didn’t pass Geonho in the living room, he figured he’d check the dry bar.

Just as he thought, his big brother was leaned against the black marble, sipping on the Old Fashioned in his hand as his head was turned to the floor. He perked up at the movement to his side, turning and setting down his drink on a crystal coaster.

He didn’t say anything, and that worried Yunho. He was never really good at reading strangers’ faces, or picking up on social ques, but he’d thought that since he’d known Geonho his whole life, he’d be able to tell. But he couldn’t, and it bothered him.

“Hyung, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to have that huge outburst in front of the most important people in the company. I was just so mad that he said that about Daddy, and compared us to him –like he even raised us, anyway– but seriously, it hurt my feelings. Even though I was wrong for doing that, I don’t regret it.” He rambled, but his statement was clear.

Geonho took a swig of his drink before looking back at Yunho. “I’m not mad, darling. Just overwhelmed. I should be sorry, if I’m being honest– I should’ve stood up for you. For us. For Dad. But I didn’t, and I regret it. You deserved to have me stand up for you, and I owe it to Mingi for telling that ******* off.”

“He’s fired, if that makes you feel any better. I’m a man with a lot of ******* power, and I’m gonna take advantage of that. I won’t have anyone throwing shame on our family name. You and I are in this together, dear. Thank you for being patient with me.” Geonho spilled, his hands slightly shaking as he spoke.

Yunho couldn’t help but let out a long exhale. “I thought you would be angry,” he shrugged, a sweet, lighthearted laugh ringing through the empty silence of the dry bar area. “I was convinced I was gonna come in here and get lectured.”

Geonho shook his head, a small huff leaving his lips. “I couldn’t do that to you, Yunho. Not after your day had been so bad. I’m just glad you came, even though you didn’t wanna.”

He sighed. “It means a lot to me. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to hear about… Dad today, but I guess people are always gonna have something to say. Even if people aren’t talking about him, it’s like his presence looms over me. I hate it. I hate that his image had to involve me, and I hate being the one that has to clean up the mess he made.”

Yunho frowned, pulling himself up to sit on the counter. “That’s why I didn’t wanna come. I knew that if I was there, someone would be bound to bring him up, and we’d get dragged into it.” He said, clasping his hands in his lap.

Geonho nodded, looking up at Yunho with sorry eyes. “I shouldn’t have taken you. I should’ve known it would happen. But, everyone was so excited to see you again, since you hadn’t really been inside the building for a couple of years. I knew everyone would be enamored with you, because you’re such an angel. Dad’s Angel. Everyone there knew it, too.”

There it was, that word again hitting Yunho like a ******* freight train.

“You were his favorite, Yunho. He never cared about me. It was always, ‘You’re the next man of this family, Jeong Geonho. Be big, be strong.’ I just can’t take the weight. You’re his little-*******-angel, and it just killed me to see you lose your spark after he started to forsake you. It’s like… like he got bored of us. You, Mommy and I.”

It took everything in Yunho not to break into tears. Geonho was jealous, but it was too **** late to make it up to him, now. “I miss Mommy,” he hiccupped. “Eh-Especially Daddy. I’m so mad at him. He hurt us. He– he hurt Mommy, he hurt you and he destroyed me. He did get bored of us, and he decided that ******* another woman was the solution.”

“He didn’t care about me anymore. He d-didn’t let me sit in the office when he worked– probably cause he was on the phone with that s-****. I used to be able to sit by the desk and…” Yunho paused, squeezing his eyes shut as if that would stop the tear flow.

“...and I used to be able to rest my head on his thigh. I used to be able to feel his hands in my hair, s-stroking my scalp, or petting my neck. I used to be able to sit in his lap. He used to call me his little angel. Daddy’s Angel. He used to love me. Where did that Daddy go ?”

His eyes were glossy with tears, flooding his waterline and threatening to spill down his puffy cheeks. Geonho practically lunged forwards, taking his shaky frame between his arms.

But they weren’t his Daddy’s arms. It was a pathetic substitute, one he didn’t care for, no matter how much Geonho tried. Yunho softly pushed him off, wiping his face and sniffling. He looked back at his brother with sullen eyes before he spoke.

“I know it hurts, dear, I’m sorry. I’m hurting, too. But like I said before– I want to rebuild. As sad at it is, he’s not in our life anymore. We have to push forwards, and by no means am I rushing you, I’m just trying to get my point across. We have to make a name for ourselves, even if that means casting out the one Jeong that couldn’t keep up.”

“We’re better than that, Yunho. You’re better than that. We have power, we have money and we have each other. We’re rich as ****.”

Yunho let out a little giggle at that, causing a grin to sprout on his brother’s face. “You’re right. Thank you, Geonho. You’re so amazing.”

He nonchalantly shrugged. “I know. Can’t get enough, can you ??”

Yunho cringed. “Actually, on that note– who were so you dressed up for tonight ?” He crossed his arms, tilting his head. “You never do your hair like… that… and I’ve never seen so much… chest. Might as well just left the house shirtless.”

Geonho’s fist collided with Yunho’s stomach in a matter of seconds. “No one, bro. It’s all for work. I’m married to my job.” He rubbed his nape, his ears turning red. Yunho shook with laugher, his arm wrapped around his gut.

“Sure, you are, hyung.” He squinted, waving his finger around.

He’s crying, and crying, and crying.

Yunho refuses to go home, not yet. Not when he’s such a mess inside and out. He figured Geonho and Mingi would be waiting up for him, so it’s not like he could leave town, especially with two more days of school remaining for the week.

Needless to say, Yunho needed a break. He needed to risk his life to go back to feeling okay, but as of now, that wasn’t really possible. So he rerouted to the convenience store.

He had enough gas in the tank, he was sure of it. He didn’t need a snack, either, since he was just sat at one of Seoul’s five-star restaurants. No, he was searching for something else– something that awakened a different type of hormone. Dopamine ? Testosterone ? Oxytocin ? Either way, it was something he didn’t have to inject into his veins, so a win is a win.

But he couldn’t just walk in and go talk to Hongjoong’s daddy. That would be weird. Yunho would look stupid, and he didn’t like looking stupid.

He parked at the front, instead of paying for gas he didn’t need. He sure did love the smell, though. Petroleum and the sweetly sterile scent of a convenience store. Did wonders to his messed up brain.

Before even walking in, he could see the glow on his face. Even in the empty store, he still kept a smile on his face.

Yunho pulled the door open, slinging himself in and sparing him a shy glance as he walked straight to the back, acting like he came here just for a drink. He doesn’t pay attention to which one he grabs, he just does, before stumbling over to the cashier’s counter.

He sets the drink down, pawing it forwards. Daddy looked at him with a soft, welcoming smile as he rang him up.

Yunho felt his cheeks flush as he struggled to keep eye contact with him, his heart lurching anytime he caught glimpse of his broad shoulders filling out his uniform, or the subtle flex of his forearms as he reached for a bag. There was a quiet strength in him, a solidness that Yunho hadn't realized he was craving, a sense of safety wrapped in undeniable appeal.

Daddy pushed the bag forwards, tilting his head at Yunho as he did. “Are you upset ?” He softly asked, furrowing his brows. Yunho gave a tight lipped smile, shaking his head. “Oh, no, sir. I’m okay.” He instinctively said, awkwardly brushing some hair out of his eyes.

“I can tell you’ve been crying.” He pointed out, looking at him with empathetic eyes.

Yunho huffed, then nodded, looking down at the floor. “I-I’m sorry, today has just been… a rough day. I’m not feeling too well.” He whimpered, his lips turning into a frown. Daddy sighed, reaching forwards and placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Don’t be sorry. And please don’t cry, angel. I’m sure things will get better, okay ?” He smiled, reassuring him and squeezing his shoulder softly. Yunho nodded, his ears turning red as he took the plastic bag from the counter.

‘Angel. He called me angel.’

Before Yunho could fully take a step away from the register, Daddy stopped him. “Wait– take these, angel.” He held out a box of cookie-flavored Pepero with upturned lips and soft eyes. Yunho happily accepted it, pulling some cash out of his pocket and setting it on the counter.

“Thank you…” he sweetly said, waving bye-bye before Daddy could force the cash back into his hands. It was a sweet gesture, but Yunho didn’t want to risk getting him in trouble for a snack.

As he approached the door, a bright slip of orange paper on the floor caught his eye, stopping him in his tracks. He bent over, picking it up and scanning the words.

‘EXCLUSIVE CAR MEET, 12 AM SAT EVENING.’

On the bottom left in small hangul was a location Yunho recognized from researching areas to drive at night without getting arrested. It was a small abandoned airport just outside of the city limits, perfect for an event like this.

He slowly stepped out of the store, further examining the flyer as he got to the car. It was dark out, nearing ten pm. Yunho knew Mingi had to be worried about him, and if Mingi was worried, God knows what Geonho was going through.

The engine ignited and he pulled out, making his way back home. Traffic was fair this evening, most likely because it was a Wednesday, but still. He had tucked the paper in the net on the passengers side, save for later, save for Saturday.

“Geonho, I’d just like to say thank you for your commitment to the company. I know I’m not apart of your bloodline, but with how long I’ve been working for your family, I feel so truly honoured to be here, it really feels like it. You boys are amazing.” An older lady said, reaching over to pat his shoulder.

She was one Yunho recognized, especially after countless interactions between she and his mother. He knew she was dear to Mommy, and now Geonho.

Must be something to be that loved.

Another man –the one sitting directly next to Mingi– spoke up. Yunho didn’t know his name– knew he must’ve been given such a high position in the company since they fired the lowlife his father had been hooking up with.

And oh, he was just as terrible. He’d clearly downed too many glasses of scotch, the flush on his cheeks betraying his act of sobriety. He leaned back in his seat with an entitled flair, draping his arm over the back of Mingi’s chair.

“Ah, Geonho-ssi,” the man slurred slightly, gesturing vaguely with his glass, elbows on the table ‘n everything. “I must say, watching you two young men, so polished, so promising… it reminds me so much of your father. What a character !! A true force, one to be reckoned with.” He took a long swig, a knowing smirk stretching his lips.

“He certainly knew how to keep things… lively, hmm ? Especially with the ladies. He was quite the active man. Always had his hands full, whether with a new venture or, well, other ventures outside the home, yeah, Geonho ? Never knew where he’d be next, did you !” He let out a loud, booming laugh, clearly finding his own observation so-*******-hilarious.

Geonho, who sat at the head of the table, forced a tight, uncomfortable chuckle, running a nervous hand through his hair. “Yes, well, Father certainly had a… unique.. approach to things.” He attempted to pivot the conversation, clearing his throat. “But we’re trying to forge our own path, focusing on–”

“Hope you boys find a better work-life balance when you take over, for your families’ sakes.” That entitled ***** cut in, undeterred, his gaze now sweeping over Yunho with a backhanded pity.

“Wouldn’t want any… distractions like that keeping you from your true priorities, huh ?”

Yunho, who had been listening with a sickening blend of forced calm and internal fury, felt his blood run cold, then boil. Those words hit him like the impact of a nitro boosted *****. His jaw was clenched so tight his teeth ached.
He watched his brother’s strained smile, the way he tried to brush it off, minimize the bleak insult.

It was a direct insult to not only their father, but to them. Almost warning them not to fall down the same path. His eyes, burning with inferno, snapped from the smirking colleague to Geonho, and then down to his own trembling fist.

Not again. Not here. Not in front of Mingi. Not from him.

With a sudden, very violent motion, Yunho’s fist slammed down onto the mahogany table. The sharp crack of wood against bone, amplified by the sudden silence, made the silverware jump and glasses rattle. The entitled colleague, mid-chuckle, actually yelped, spilling a splash of his drink.

Every head at the table whipped towards Yunho, who was now standing. His chair loudly scraped back as he looked down on that man, his face no longer ‘humble’ or ‘polite.’ It was pure rage, his eyes blazing.

“That’s enough,” Yunho’s voice was low, trembling with suppressed violence, but utterly devoid of any pretense.

“The Devil is on Earth. The knives are on the table. And don’t take this lightly, but you’re standing in a lot of shade right now.” He pushed back from the table, the chair toppling behind him.

“You don’t get to talk about my family. And you certainly don’t get to talk about my father.”

He spun on his heel, heedless of the shocked silence, the scattered glances, or Geonho’s widening eyes. Yunho furiously stalked away from the table, headed straight for the exit.

Geonho stood as well, his eyes watery and body trembling. “Jeong Yunho, get back here !”

Mingi, on the other hand, turned to the man, his brow raised and his tone terrifyingly calm. “What made you think it was okay to say that, huh ? Did you think you’re just so amazing, and just so much better than everyone here that you’d get away with that ?”

He didn’t say a word. Mingi spared Geonho a single glance before rushing out of there, following after Yunho. He was just in time, too.

Standing right in front of the headlights of the Aventador, Song Mingi aimlessly waved his arms to get the younger’s attention. Yunho looks up, wiping his eyes and shaking his head at Mingi, motioning for him to get out of the way.

Mingi scowled, walking to the side. He knocked on the window, crossing his arms. Expecting him to fully roll it down, he only cracked it.

“G-go.. go away, Mingi. Let me– let me leave.” Mingi heard him sob from the slit in the window, seeing his eyes all puffy and red, his face splotchy and tear stained. Mingi’s heart broke at the sight.

He shook his head, his fingers slipping through the crack. “You aren’t leaving without me, Yunho-ah. At least let me get in the car.” He tried to negotiate, slightly shaking the window in his grasp.

Yunho’s voice broke as he opened his mouth. “Please, Mingi. I wanna be alone.” He whisper pleaded, his hands ******* the wheel with a white-knuckle grip.

He almost kicked the car. A rush of anger at this whole situation just destroying him internally, but he couldn’t let Yunho see that.
So he stepped back. Far enough for it to be safe, close enough to be deafened by the roar of the engine as he sped out of that parking lot.

And he was gone.

Mingi’s whole ******* life flashed before his eyes, anticipating the end of his life to be due to reckless driving. He squeezed his eyes shut, the only sounds he could process were the engine and Yunho’s shallow gasps for air.

Mingi wasn’t even breathing, at this point.

On the other hand, Yunho felt the flow of the voltage coursing through his veins as if they were wires, fueling his rush, awakening him like never before.

All he saw were bricks. So he swerved the Aventador right, skidding across the grit, the small spoiler wing practically a hair away from the wall.

The whole vehicle did a 360, Yunho easing down on the brakes as things took a different feeling. He looked over at Mingi, who finally opened his eyes, heavy breaths leaving his parted lips as his chest heaved.

Yunho unbuckled his seatbelt, getting out of his seat and putting himself in Mingi’s lap. He locked his arms around his neck, Mingi’s slithering around his waist as they caught their breath together.

As their bodies settled down, Yunho was the first to pull away, yet keeping his body flush against Mingi’s. He cupped the elder’s face, his thumbs stroking his soft cheeks as his soft pants brushing against his lips.

“Where did you learn to do that ?”

Mingi inhaled, his hands holding tightly onto Yunho’s hips.

“I didn’t.”

Mingi laughed. “We could’ve died.”

“I know.”

Yunho smiled, leaning in, his forehead against Mingi’s.

Mingi pulled him in for another hug, holding him tightly before releasing.
“You should probably drive back, before the cops show up.” He whispered, running his hands through Yunho’s slightly sweat-damp hair.

Yunho whined, wiggling around a bit.  “What, you don’t like when I sit on your lap ?” He purred, directly addressing their close, close proximity.

Mingi looked away, chuckling, before Yunho took his face back in his hands, pulling him closer.
“C’mon, Mingi-hyung, you have to admit. You like it when we’re this close, right ?” He sweetly smiled, using his soft-toned voice.

Quick as a whip, Yunho jumped to his feet and raced across the floor to go inside the massive closet. Mingi heard him rifling through drawers and hanging clothes, the little sounds he made under his breath as he searched for what he was looking for.

After several minutes, the Master emerged in a whole new outfit. He was wearing a Ralph Lauren jumper. It was baby blue cotton, with ribbed cuffs, neckline and hem. On the chest was a stitched image of a brown teddy bear. It was wearing a baseball cap with casual clothes and sneakers.

Beneath the jumper was a white shirt with an exaggerated collar. The top button was open to expose a hint of his neck. He had paired the jumper and shirt with little white shorts and light blue socks.

Finally, he had slipped into his black horsebit loafers with the thick heels. Yunho skipped out of the closet and spun on his heel to show off the outfit. The Roméo charm was hanging from his phone case. It bounced from the movement. He let out a breathy giggle and smiled wide enough to show off his teeth.

Seonghwa moved to retrieve a hat from a drawer. It was a twill nautical cap, with a navy brim and band and a white top. Little brass buttons on the band matched well with the brass details on the lamb bag. He neatened the Master’s hair with his fingers and then tugged it on for him.

“There, now you look perfect, my darling boy.”

Yunho gushed and leaned against his fingers. “What do you think?” he asked, glancing at him with his big, sparkling eyes. “Do I look beautiful?”

Mingi had gotten used to the Master’s little uniforms and layered suits. He no longer furrowed his brow when he came skipping into the stable, his shoes clip-clopping and his hands swinging at his sides. He didn’t even see it as childlike anymore, because he had spoken to him enough to understand that he was an intelligent young man beneath the princeling costumes. However, now he could see him dressed in a preppy, casual outfit, he found he liked it a lot. Yunho still looked boyish, but he was handsome rather than cute.

Mingi gave him a slow smile. “You look very handsome, Yunho.”

Oh, Yunho had to turn away from him because he was so overcome with joy. His ears turned a shade of deep pink from beneath the brim of his cap. The flush even crept down the back of his neck above his shirt collar. He cupped his face in his hands and let out a series of flustered noises.

This made Seonghwa beam at him. “Mingi’s right; you look very handsome. Now, you must behave when you’re with him. Yes? Don’t wander off, stay by his side. Remember to be patient with him, especially if he comes over quiet. And most importantly …”

Seonghwa took hold of his shoulders to turn him around so he could look into his eyes. Yunho wasn’t quite able to hold his gaze because he was still so flustered. “Enjoy yourself,” Seonghwa finished, giving the boy another soft stroke beneath the chin.

“No more pouting, no more sadness. Today is your special day, and you must enjoy it whilst it lasts. Yes?”

Yunho nodded and skipped across the room towards Mingi. He held his hand out in silent request. Mingi studied it and then glanced at Seonghwa, just to see how the other man reacted to the gesture. It looked familiar, like they had held hands before. He saw no concern or confusion on the other man’s expression, so he took hold of his hand. It was as moist and warm as always as the boy entwined their fingers.

“Alright,” Mingi sighed out, his shoulders lifting and falling in a soft wave. “Let’s see what’s happening in town …”

“Is this your daddy?” he asked, gazing down into the old photograph.

“Yeah, it’s my dad,” Mingi said with a nod. “He teaches at Zurich University. Korean language and cultural studies.”

“He’s handsome, as all daddies are.” Yunho rubbed his thumb over the glass.

Though Mingi couldn’t see where he was touching, he had a feeling he had just stroked his thumb over the spot where his dad’s face was. “And your mummy? Where’s she?”

“… Don’t know her, she left when I was a baby.”

At this, Yunho lifted his gaze to look over at him. His eyes were wide, and they shifted from side to side as he tried to process this unexpected information. It took him a few seconds to think of something suitable to say.

“Oh, how dreadful. I’m terribly sorry. You must miss her.”

“Hard to miss someone you have no memories of,” Mingi replied with a shrug. “Wherever she is, I hope she’s happy. God knows my dad is far from it.”

“Daddy is like that too,” Yunho remarked, his thumb once more stroking over the glass. “So melancholic. I can see the life draining from his eyes every time I look into them. All because of me. Have you met him?”

Mingi nodded and explained, “Yeah, but only on video calls. I’ve never met him in person.”

“Meeting my daddy is like meeting God,” Yunho said in the softest whisper. “Big, powerful, filled with wrath which he demonstrates more than his apparent boundless love. I hope you never meet him. He’s … frightening.”

Mingi furrowed his brow and asked, “Frightening how?”

Yunho turned back to the photograph. His hands weren’t quite steady as he stared down at it.

“Does your daddy hit you too?” he asked in that same whisper.

Oh.

Yunho spoke around his dangling cigarette. It bobbed from every slight twitch of his pretty lips. “Mmm, my body hurts.”

“Your body hurts?” Seonghwa repeated in that same sweet tone, like a mother talking to her toddler. His rubbing hand slid down his back, focusing more on the potential source of the pain. “How come?”

“Riding the horses,” he explained, his gaze still burning into Mingi’s skull.

“They can be rough. But it feels so good, doesn’t it?”

At this, Seonghwa clicked his tongue and started rigorously rubbing the dip of the Master’s curved spine. His warm palm would soothe away the lingering discomfort.

Only, it wasn’t really what he needed, and they both knew it.

No, what Yunho needed was a nice soak in a warm bath, and maybe a soothing after-care balm to take down the sting.

Knowing Seonghwa, he would probably slather it on for him with a series of gentle coos and head strokes.

“Oh, dear! No one enjoys a rough ride, least of all the horses. Which one was rough with you? I’ll have to ride them myself and see if they need some more balance and gait training.”

Mingi managed to not choke on his next pull, but only just. He coughed into his fist, tried his ******* hardest to disguise it as a little tickle. It worked, for the other man didn’t give him so much as a glance. He was much too busy babying the little darling on his knee.

“That’s quite alright,” Yunho replied, his lips lifting in a hollow smile around his cigarette. “I have to learn how to train it myself. I’ll put plenty of work into it.”

“Good boy,” Seonghwa praised, reaching up with his free hand to give him a gentle stroke under the chin.

Yunho turned his head to look at him and suddenly asked, “Do you think I could ride a stallion?”

“Hmm, the question isn’t if you could, rather if you should,” came Seonghwa’s earnest and soft-spoken response. “I’ve no doubt that you could handle one. Not all stallions are temperamental. Some are calm, good-natured. But they’re just too unpredictable, love. They can’t help it. It’s their hormones, their drive to reproduce and protect their herd. So, it would need to be a well-trained stallion, and it would have to be once breeding season is over.”

“What about you?” Yunho reached up to get his cigarette between his fingers. As he exhaled smoke out the corner of his pursed lips, he turned his attention back to Mingi. His gaze shifted to look down at the soft rise in his sweatpants before lifting to his face again. “Do you think I could handle a stallion?”

The Master wasn’t talking about horses.

The stallion he longed to handle had stormy eyes and calloused hands, and it couldn’t be held down with ropes and ties. And the field he wanted to break it in was more like a sea of wrinkled cotton, with down pillow hillocks and wooden headboard mountains.

“… Yeah, you could do it,” Mingi said, his voice low and soft in the quiet of the courtyard. “We’ll have to reach out to the stud farms in a few weeks. Maybe they’ll have a suitable stallion for you to ride?”

“You promise?” Yunho asked, his chest puffing up in excitement.

Mingi nodded because he suddenly found it hard to speak. He dropped his gaze to the sound of Yunho excitedly giggling and rapidly clenching his fists, and Seonghwa softly chuckling as he watched him with a fond smile on his lips.