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Assistant: Title: Shall We?
        Author: yeolimerent yeolimerent 
        Chapter: 2/2 
        Summary: Baekhyun has always been fascinated by the basketball captain. Everyday he'd mention in his journal how his day would have been with him as his boyfriend. Who would have thought that one day, he'll be seeing him in front of his classroom— with a smirk and an awfully familiar notebook in his hand?
        Contents: Chapter 2: Where shall we go?
    

    


  

  
  
    
    “Uh…”Baekhyun gulped when the tall man behind the counter squinted his eyes in suspicion.“What? Is it your birthday? Let me see your ID.” he said inquisitively. Baekhyun subtly glanced at Chanyeol on their table to ask help but the taller simply smiled tauntingly, flashing his dimple.He gritted his teeth before looking at the man again, who was impatiently resting a hand on his waist.“The truth is…” Baekhyun smiled sheepishly and pointed at the guy back in their table, “That man there… he’s my boyfriend. I’m planning to propose to him tonight so I’m asking for a little help.”“Oh my god!” another woman, who’s wearing the same apron like this grumpy man, squealed excitedly. Baekhyun anxiously fiddled his hands.“I don’t believe you. You’re like… so young.” the grumpy guy scoffed, even glancing at Chanyeol from a distance who’s ‘studying’ cluelessly. “How would you even marry him?”“I—”“Shut up, Kwangsoo! You’re ruining the moment!” the girl hissed before smiling at him again, “What’s your boyfriend’s name? So we can write it with chocolate syrup.”Baekhyun’s eyes twinkled.“Chanyeol…”“What should we put then?” she asked after writing it down, “Should we write Marry Me? Short but direct!”He nervously laughed when the grumpy guy still looked suspicious, “No need…”“Okay! How will we enter with the dessert then? Will you send us a signal once you’ve popped the question?”“Ah…" he faked a chuckle, "I’m planning to do it as soon as I come back… so I’m hoping if I can get it now?”“Aww! Then we should just put Say Yes. Right? That’s a good idea!” she nodded continuously at her own suggestion. Baekhyun wasn’t able to say anything else anymore when she proceeded to do it, “I’ll do it now, wait there!”He came back to their table with a plate of free cake, with a big Say Yes written in cursive.“Pft—” Chanyeol covered his lips with a palm, shoulders shaking because of laughter.“Never make me do that again.” Baekhyun hissed, “God, I was so embarrassed.”“Well, you’re the one who said a free dessert tastes better.” Chanyeol shrugged while grinning like a Cheshire cat. “Your acting got us a free slice of cake.”“Yeah, after pretending I was going to propose.” Baekhyun still looked ashamed about it. He had never tried lying for free desserts before. “If they walk towards us, pretend you’re tearing up in joy. We’re supposed to be engaged.”Chanyeol had a hint of smile from that.“That doesn’t sound like a bad bargain.” he said teasingly, “Very journal worthy.”“Shut up!” Baekhyun seethed at another journal joke, but it only amused the taller even more. He glared at him before frowning at the plate of cake, “It’s not even a chocolate bomb… I wanted chocolate bomb.”“No one gives free chocolate bomb.” Baekhyun gave a mocking face that instantly relaxed when he saw the tall counter guy staring at them.He mumbled a cuss, “Sh@t, they’re looking at us…”“Come here.” he froze a little when Chanyeol pulled him close in the couch. He hugged him tight and Baekhyun looked up at him in question, especially when he caught a small curve on his lips. But Chanyeol simply shrugged in between embrace, “What? Let’s act like newly engaged.”He couldn’t complain anymore when the café staff continued to observe them, the woman who gave him the cake was obviously giggling. Baekhyun gave her a thumbs up and a toothy smile.“You know what? I think we should call off the deal. You’re obviously scamming me!” Baekhyun muttered while still pressed against Chanyeol’s chest.“Byun, you’re the one who said I get to dare you when I perfect every quiz.” Chanyeol’s deep voice reverberated against his ears, and it was like the sound of heaven. He had to blush profusely.“You always perfect them!”“It’s not my fault.” Chanyeol retaliated, “You have to stand by your word. I get a prize if I get a high mark on finals.”Baekhyun simply sighed in defeat. It’s still shocking to him how Chanyeol managed to get perfect scores in almost all of his short quizzes throughout the whole month of studying. One time, Baekhyun joked about exposing him to Miss Kwon that he didn’t need his teaching service anymore because he’s obviously nailing this subject already. Chanyeol failed the quiz that day.This prize per perfect score challenge was surely one of his regrets in life. Chanyeol was definitely taking it as a competition.“Fine.” Baekhyun pouted and began tasting the cake when they were able to stop the show. He beamed happily at one scoop, “This cake is actually good!”“Because it’s free?” Chanyeol asked while watching him.“No, really, it’s heaven.” Baekhyun assured him, a smile forming on his lips. “Reminds me of that cake my Dad and I really liked.”“Your father has a sweet tooth as well?”“Yeah. This was once our bonding.” his smile grew bigger when he remembered so many things, picturing them perfectly. “We have this favorite dessert place in Myeongdong. When we were still living in Bucheon, we would drive to Seoul just to eat there. All three of us. I remember the last time we went there more than five years ago, I had constipation on our way back to Bucheon because I ate too much sweets.”He chuckled from the memory. Life in Bucheon felt so long ago now, and nostalgia hit him differently.“More than five years ago?” Chanyeol asked, looking curious. “You haven’t come back even after permanently moving here?”Baekhyun’s smile slowly faltered. He got taken aback by the question. It’s only now that he realized that they haven’t.“No…” he said and forced another smile, “we don’t really have the time anymore. We don’t go out often. My Mom also said she never liked that place because it was too crowded for her.” he spaced out.There was a feeling that came along with that memory, because Baekhyun remembered his younger self getting offended by this. He grew up thinking everything felt perfect in his life. It was then that he realized that his parents were never as happy as he was during those times. Still, he appreciated the fact that they tried. Sometimes, it would still come across his mind, though.As time passed by, he became aware that this didn’t just apply to that situation but to others as well. It was either his Mom or Dad faking it so that he’d have nice memories. Fabricated ones, you can call it.He snapped back from his thoughts when he realized Chanyeol was looking at him because of his sudden silence, so he casually continued.“She said it’s a waste of time driving all the way to Seoul for dessert. I guess she’s right.” he said with a small grin, “I don’t even know if it’s still there.”The taller’s gaze still lingered on him until his phone rang on the table. Baekhyun caught a glimpse of Jongin’s name on the screen.“What?” Chanyeol yapped, frowning from the words coming from the other line. “Huh? You told me you don’t have plans!”Baekhyun raised a brow and roamed his eyes around even if he could still hear him very well.“D@mn you, you can’t leave my apartment! Don’t you leave Tob—”Baekhyun looked at Chanyeol when the latter instantly paused. He blinked rapidly and cleared his throat.“Don’t leave my dog!” Chanyeol repeated with a frown. Baekhyun fought the urge to smile when he unconsciously pouted, “You’re a pr@ck! You’re not having any of my Yakult jelly anymore!”With an amused smile, he watched Chanyeol sulking for a while after dropping the call.“I know it’s still early and we just finished the first quiz…” he started off, “but…”“You need to go home.” Baekhyun finished it for him, smiling to assure him. “Yeah, it’s okay. Your dog needs you.”He started fixing their things, but Chanyeol still looked dismayed on his seat.“Hey…”“Yup?”“Since it’s still a bit early…” he blinked when Baekhyun looked at him, “do you want to go to my apartment instead? Let’s continue there… or watch a movie, I don’t know.” he gulped when Baekhyun parted his lips in awe, “I can drive you to your house after.”Baekhyun felt his breath hitching when he saw the hopeful look on Chanyeol’s face.“I don’t know… it’s getting dark soon…” he said like it’s a reasonable alibi. He just couldn’t process the idea of going to his crush’s apartment with just the two of them, okay? And maybe the dog.“Okay.” Chanyeol nodded instantly. Baekhyun apologized awkwardly, but he assured him it’s fine and they could surely continue on their next session. He shouldn’t even be the one apologizing in the first place.Baekhyun stiffened when he felt an arm around his shoulders on their way out. He looked up and saw Chanyeol smiling at him fondly, making him palpitate effortlessly. He soon understood the gesture when he saw the café employees looking at them. The girl waved at the two while Kwangsoo finally appeared convinced by the gazes alone. Of all actions, it was the one that made him believe they’re actually a newly-engaged couple.They both waved at them and got out of the café. The smile lingered on Baekhyun’s lips while Chanyeol hugged himself in his coat because of the sudden cold.“Hey.” he looked back when Baekhyun called, “Let’s go…”Chanyeol appeared confused for a second, “Let’s…?”“Let’s go to your apartment.” Baekhyun had a little smile, “Watch a movie.”The taller slowly beamed again, nodding once.They both walked towards Chanyeol’s car with the same level of enthusiasm. A little too much for simply watching a movie.“I wanna meet your dog, too…” Baekhyun chuckled, “What’s the name, by the way?”He barely noticed the way Chanyeol paused for a moment, smile turning sheepish.“Bee…thoven.” he slowly said and earned a soft laugh from the other, “We call him Beethoven.”Baekhyun looked at him in amusement, “That’s a long name.” — After weeks of half-studying and half-fooling around together, the day of final exams finally came. Baekhyun found himself worrying for Chanyeol’s scores more than his own. He knew that the basketball captain is already smart to begin with, but he’s thinking about his own teaching skill. He’s worried if he actually helped Chanyeol or he simply distracted him with their supposed study schedules turn into other spontaneous activities and pranks.Don’t get him wrong, he’s also worried about his final exams. But hanging out and getting much closer to your crush within a couple of weeks surely inspired him a lot to study. It’s proven and tested.“Hey!” Baekhyun called as soon as the phone is picked up, “Where are you? I thought we’re doing a quick review before your exams?”He looked around the court area where they decided to meet for a pre-exam review but he couldn’t spot Chanyeol.
  “Ah… sorry, I’m running late today so I guess I’ll go straight to it later.”
Bummed. He was hoping to at least see him before his own exam.“Okay.” Baekhyun responded despite his lips puckering into a pout. He decided to tease him instead, “Are you preparing for my victory?”“Psh.” he guffawed when Chanyeol let out a loud snort, “I will kick the sh@t out of this exam like your mini quizzes, Baek, don’t be too confident.”“Kidding aside, best of luck Chanyeol.” he told him sincerely, “You don’t need to think about that little agreement. I want you to pass, too.”Chanyeol hummed from the other line.“Nope, I’m taking that deal very seriously.” Baekhyun smiled while shaking his head, amused by Chanyeol’s competitiveness. “I want to win. I just need to.”“You’re scaring me.” Baekhyun squinted his eyes when he simply earned a soft chuckle from the other, “Just don’t make me eat cucumber or strip in public as a winning favor.”Chanyeol’s deep laugh still makes his heart flutter every time. That’s one of the few things the taller has yet to know.“Silly.” he told Baekhyun with an obvious smile from his tone alone, “We’ll see about it after I pass this exam.”Baekhyun got a bit gloomy recently when he thought about this moment. About them being done with their study sessions, but he soon realized that he’s already lucky enough to be friends with him because of this opportunity. Right then, he’s alright again.So whoever wins this deal, or whatever the hell is the prize— he still got to be with Chanyeol and it’s more than enough.“Good luck, Chanyeol.”
  “See you, Baekhyunnie.”

   
After almost six hours of nonstop examinations, Baekhyun’s last class finally ended.As usual, his classmates would buzz around as soon as the professor left the room, discussing about their scores and how difficult the exams were. Too jaded to think about anything, Baekhyun waited for the majority of the class to leave the room before deciding to do the same. Baekhyun did well for someone who prioritized hanging out instead of actually studying. For someone who mostly crammed the whole thing, he’s just glad that it’s over. Exams are the worst, seriously.It’s as if someone might have actually heard his thoughts when he saw a familiar face waiting for him right outside the room. Chanyeol seemed oblivious of the attention he’s getting even from the few people left. He smiled at Baekhyun who’s carefully waiting for his classmates to get farther before walking towards him.“Chanyeol?” he stuttered out of surprise, “What are you doing here…”“Sorry, I figured that your last class for the day is ending so I went here…”“Ah… you should’ve texted me…” Baekhyun chuckled, taking another look around before settling his gaze on the taller. “How was the exam, by the way?”Chanyeol’s smile became even more prominent as if he was just waiting to be asked. He pulls out something from his bag before handing it to Baekhyun.After a lingering look on the familiar score sheet, Baekhyun glanced up at him and takes it to see what’s inside.His eyes widened.“What…” he let out a sharp gasp, “perfect mark on Econ?”Chanyeol simply stared at his awed face while nodding.Baekhyun blinked continuously, “Is this real?”“I’m a bit offended, Byun.” Chanyeol narrowed his eyes despite the smile on his face growing bigger, “But yeah, it’s real.”“No, it’s just shocking!” Baekhyun laughed in disbelief. He felt even more stupid and he’s not even insulted about it, “I’ve never had a grade like this and to think I’m your tutor! I’m embarrassed!”Chanyeol chuckled before a small meaningful smile settled on his lips. He watched Baekhyun’s face while the latter is still happily smiling down at his score card.“I guess I was really desperate to pass.” he muttered.“Ah… so I guess you’re here for your prize? Wow, it can’t wait huh?” Baekhyun looked up at him with an amused grin, “Alright, Park. Let’s negotiate.”His brows shot up when Chanyeol turned a bit more serious. He then started picturing the pranks Chanyeol has in mind for him. He’s not even scared, at all.“What? Come on, anything as long as it’s not dangerous or expensive. I’ll do it.” Baekhyun grinned to assure him.Chanyeol looked down at his own hands before letting out a huge sigh. It is then that Baekhyun’s taunting smile started dwindling as the man gathered courage to speak.“Okay.” he nodded once and looked right into his eyes, “Go out with me, Baekhyun.”Baekhyun’s lips parted. His heart felt like jumping off his chest while he waited for a punchline or a boisterous laughter from the man in front of him, but none of those came. Chanyeol still has this small curve on his lips, but his eyes tell him he’s not up for games.“Is this part of the prank or…” Baekhyun tried to laugh despite his hitching breath, “Go out? As in…”“As in go out.” Baekhyun heaved deeply; as in like a date?“As in like… our study sessions?”“Probably… but without the studying.” a date?“Ah… like a post-exam discussion—”“As in a date, Baek.” Chanyeol cut him off with a deep chuckle before he got farther from the main point. “Go out on a date with me.”Baekhyun opened his mouth to say something but nothing coherent came to his mind. His eyes were blinking in a continuous pace.“I…”“If you’re worrying about people seeing us, then don’t. I know a lot of good places far from here.” Chanyeol assured him because of his long silence. His expression fell when Baekhyun still won’t speak, “Or… if you don’t want to, it’s also fine. I can just—”Out of the hundred words that were at the edge of his tongue, Baekhyun ended up uttering one short question.“Why me?” he mumbled weakly, still refusing to believe it.Chanyeol gave him a smile that sent more jolts all over his body.“Why not you?” he simply asked him back. He didn’t give Baekhyun a definite answer. He knew he didn’t have to, “Look, I’ll give you time to think. That’s the only favor I want for passing the exam, but it’s really okay if you don’t want to… it’s not a big deal, Baek don’t wor—”“Let’s do it…” Baekhyun’s voice is still languid but it’s more than enough to cut him off, along with his glazed eyes staring up at him. “Let’s go out…”It’s Chanyeol’s turn to part his lips to try speaking, only to end up pursing them close again for a smile.The same one slowly formed on Baekhyun’s lips too. His gaze caught someone waving from the distance.“Jongin is calling you.” Baekhyun told the man who’s still watching him in disbelief.“Ah, practice…” Chanyeol blinked when he got pulled back to reality, smiling so brightly. “So, I’ll just fetch you, tomorrow then…?”Baekhyun nodded once, “Okay…”It all seemed like a déjà vu, or a very ideal journal entry scenario. Chanyeol stepped back away from him so he wouldn’t have to let go of him from his sight, wearing the same victorious and cheeky smile.“See you.” he mumbled, still enough for Baekhyun to hear.Baekhyun had to repeatedly ask himself if it’s real. If it’s really happening. But one after another, he blinks his eyes and Chanyeol’s still there. His heart is still jumping frantically.It’s real. — “Chanyeol, why are we here?”The taller was still sporting that sly smile even if they were trembling in their white jumpsuit coats. It’s getting closer to winter but for some reason, Chanyeol brought him into this small nature reserve with a bunch of hays and obstacles setup around. There weren’t any people around them because no one’s crazy enough to do this outdoor activity a few days before winter.No one as crazy as them.Baekhyun stood still as Chanyeol put some big lab goggles on his eyes, having the time of his life by fixing his hair, too.“We’re sightseeing.” he said, even if it’s obviously b@llsh@t because they had to put a used overall jumpsuit and goggles. “I’ve always wanted to come here but there’s always a lot of people.”Before he could ask again, one of the camp employees walked towards them, holding two filled shoulders bags. Contrary to the taller’s smiling face, Baekhyun looked even more confused.“Here.” the lanky boy gently shook his head, “If you two idiots get hypothermia, don’t blame me.” he shrugged as he walked away.Baekhyun couldn’t figure out what they’re up to, until Chanyeol had slung one of the shoulder bags on him. He finally got to see a bunch of paint b@lls inside them. He looked at Chanyeol with widening eyes, unable to notice that the latter was already pulling one from his own.“You—”“You asked what we’re here for…” Chanyeol said with an innocent smile then successfully bursts a paintball on his shoulder, “here!”Baekhyun gasped in shock when a blue paint trailed all over his suit. Chanyeol was already running away with a boisterous laughter.“Park!”The sun was blocked by the clouds and the weather made the day a lot gloomier. But the cold was completely forgotten by these two boys, running around a pile of hays while throwing each other paint. They didn’t even go easy on one another, harshly throwing and smashing the b@lls like they’re on an actual war. It’s not a surprising date activity for someone so competitive like the two of them. In the midst of it, they’re already covered with abstract colors on their clothes and cheeks.Sometimes the staff would just watch them with shaking heads as they tackled and wrestled against each other on the stacks of hay. Such idiots.“Okay, Byun… time to have mercy.” he grinned from ear to ear while hiding behind an obstacle. He could hear Chanyeol leaning on the other side, heavily panting.“Given up so fast, coward?” he tauntingly said, slowly standing up to catch the other off-guard. He knew very well he’s doing just the same to run away after a failed plead.“I don’t have any paint now…” Chanyeol said that made him laugh silently. He cleared his throat.“Okay…” he said while suppressing another laugh, “let’s get out of here and call it quits.”“Really?”“Yup. My hands are numb now too. Maybe this is hypothermia.” he said despite the big grin on his lips as he looked in his bag with a few paintb@lls still left. “Let’s go, Park?”As expected, the taller stood up from the other side. But before he could, a ball of paint had already been smashed right on his head. He stilled when he felt the paint trailing all over his head while Baekhyun laughed breathlessly on the floor in front of him. Chanyeol cussed a few times, though ended up smiling at the sight.“Shouldn’t have trusted you.” Chanyeol hissed and offered a hand to help him stand up anyway. Baekhyun took this and stood up, declaring that he had won the fight. “Stop laughing. Now I have to wash my hair.”He wrapped an arm around Baekhyun’s shoulder as they started walking out of the area. Baekhyun was still wiping the corner of his eyes. Now he’s completely oblivious about Chanyeol slipping his other hand in his bag to steal one.“I won this so easily.”“I’ll let that slip.” Chanyeol said and looked right on his face with a side grin, “Be grateful you’re really pretty.”Baekhyun faked a frown when he easily blushed from the smooth compliment. He completely failed to notice the impending doom right above him.“Wow, you’re re—” smashed and a red paint trailed all over Baekhyun’s head while Chanyeol ran his way back inside, laughing victoriously now that he didn’t have to be the only one to wash his hair. “You little sh@t!”   For the nth time in the day, Baekhyun was wiping the tears on the corner of his eyes after laughing too much. They just finished their dinner in this restaurant Chanyeol picked. They’ve gone to so many places that day but it still felt like it went on so fast. They still had a stain of paint on their hair despite washing it earlier.Chanyeol watched the way Baekhyun’s eyes crinkled, glancing behind the boy’s head where a group of restaurant staff were walking towards their table.“Hey,” he mumbled at Baekhyun, “act normally, okay?”“Huh? Wha—”
  “Happy birthday to you…”
He flinched from his seat when a bunch of waiters started collectively singing a birthday song while looking at him. Chanyeol silently laughed at the sight of Baekhyun gaping in shock, not knowing what to do. The boy’s eyes were lightening up upon seeing a plate of chocolate bomb with a birthday candle. He sent Chanyeol a subtle sharp look but smiled nevertheless.Chanyeol’s grin became a little fonder while staring at the boy in front of him, cheeks brightening from the candlelight while he timidly looked at the singing staff. He didn’t miss the sight of Baekhyun clasping his hands together to make a genuine wish even if it’s not really his birthday.Another deep breath escaped Chanyeol’s lips. His heart felt like jumping off his chest.“Happy birthday, Baekhyunnie!” one of the restaurant employees greeted him enthusiastically. Other customers were also watching them because of the scene, “I hope you enjoy this special treat from us.”“You look very good together.” they told the two men before finally walking away. Baekhyun caught Chanyeol’s eyes and instead of blushing furiously, they both bursted out laughing.“Oh my god! What was that?” Baekhyun looked around to make sure no one noticed.“My acting skills got you a chocolate bomb.” Chanyeol leaned back while grinning, “I told them to add more hot fudge, by the way.”“You’re terrible, Park.” he shook his head, smiling down at his favorite dessert anyway.“Just think of it as an advanced birthday chocolate bomb. It works the same.” the taller raised a brow while flashing a sly smile, “Actually, we can go back here on your actual birthday. I don’t think they’d remember us.”Baekhyun didn’t seem to notice the underlying message. He simply laughed again while nodding.“Or we can say it’s your birthday on my birthday.” that actually sounded perfect.“But you’d still get the bomb?”“I’d still get the bomb.”“I don’t mind.”   “That was really fun…”The breeze outside caused their noses to turn red. Baekhyun fixed the thick scarf around his neck as soon as they got in the car, “thanks, Chanyeol.”“No worries.”He glanced at him reluctantly, “So… are we going home now?”The restaurant was near closing time when they left. The staff they passed by greeted him again but instead of laughing, both guys simply shared a smile. The day seemed to have passed in a split second. He doesn’t want it to end so soon but here they are, in the car on the way home because most stores around the area are already closing.“Uhm…” he looked at Chanyeol expectantly when the boy cleared his throat, “Is it okay if we drop by at Yonsei first? I forgot something in court from our last practice.”Baekhyun nodded without having to think twice. At least they’re not going home yet.“Sure. Isn’t it closed already, though?”“I don’t think so.” Chanyeol kept a casual expression, “Is it okay if we still check?”“Of course.” Baekhyun tried not to sound too ecstatic about it, chuckling lightly. “Let’s just hope no one scares us there.”Chanyeol gave him a side-eye, “You watch too much horror.”“It’s late and it’s almost winter, Park, you can’t blame me.”They reached the university twenty minutes after ten. There are a lot of dormitories around so there are still some students walking along the grounds even at this hour. The multi-purpose court area is a bit isolated though, so Baekhyun’s horror paranoia easily kicked in again. He’s hugging himself while looking around the hall, earning him a smile from Chanyeol who’s walking ahead because of his longer legs.“Are you scared?” he does this thing again— pausing from walking just to check on Baekhyun and wait for him to reach his side. It doesn’t fail to make the other boy’s heart flutter, “Come here, walk closer to me.”Baekhyun huffed and shook his head, tugging onto the taller’s coat instead.“No… just let me hold on your coat in case someone drags me out of nowhere.” his lips were buried into his thick scarf so his words were a bit muffled.Chanyeol giggled when Baekhyun clawed on to his clothes, obviously scared. They ended up walking closer, side by side because Baekhyun would keep up with his pace in fear that someone would actually pop up out of nowhere.When they got near the main door of the court, Chanyeol made him stay where he is.“I’ll check the door.”He’s the only one who got to check, while Baekhyun uneasily stood on the same spot, looking around like a scared little child. He couldn’t see if the door’s locked, but Chanyeol’s taking a while checking it.“Chanyeol, quick…” he whined. Baekhyun tried tilting his head to look at the door Chanyeol is currently blocking, “You’re taking so long, is it locked?”“Nope!” Chanyeol responded after a faint clicking sound. He looked back at Baekhyun with a knowing smile, “Let’s go.”Baekhyun hesitated when he didn’t see any light from the inside, “But it’s so dark…”“We’ll turn the lights on, scaredy cat. Come on.” Chanyeol stepped inside and he’s left with no choice but to follow.He held onto Chanyeol’s coat until the latter finally found the switch of the side lights and heater. It’s still a bit dimmed considering the main lights are probably operated somewhere else, but they can see each other now. Baekhyun can see Chanyeol looking around the whole court while taking his coat off. He’s left with his hoodie, walking towards the rack of balls on the side to get one.Baekhyun intriguingly raised his brows, still watching the taller on the same spot.“What are you doing?”Chanyeol simply smiled at him, standing at the center of the court with a ball on his hand.“I’ll start here.” he dismissed Baekhyun’s question and went on position, “In or not?”Baekhyun chuckled in disbelief. But when the basketball captain simply waited for his answer, he rolled his eyes.“That’s stupid.” he said like it’s an obvious answer to an obvious question, “Of course, in, Yonsei captain.”Chanyeol threw the ball into the ring and effortlessly got it in. He sent Baekhyun a boyish grin.“Good guess.” he shrugged while taking a few steps back to get farther from the ring, “How about here?”Baekhyun can’t believe he’s inside the university gym, in the middle of the night, just to watch Chanyeol do a few three-point shots. Just the two of them.It’s not like he’s complaining.“So you’re just here to brag about your playing skills?” Chanyeol simply shrugged at the remark and waited for another answer, “In.”Baekhyun laughed when he did an obviously intentional miss.“Eenk.” Chanyeol clicked his tongue while smiling, “Bad guess, but still flattering.”“Park, what did you leave here?” Baekhyun crossed his arms over his chest. The reason why they’re here doesn’t seem so urgent now compared to how Chanyeol made it sound a while ago.Chanyeol smiled even without looking at him. He threw another perfect shot in the ring.“Hmm this, actually.” he answered slyly, “I forgot to practice.”Baekhyun chuckled again, but he still wouldn’t get the answer he wanted so he called him again.“Park.”Chanyeol threw another one before finally looking at him. Baekhyun felt his heart skip, but he bravely stared back at the man while they are a few meters away from each other.“You said… in your journal...” Chanyeol took a few steps closer, causing the other to hold his breath. “That sometimes you imagine everyone disappearing while watching me play.” he seriously added, “You said sometimes it feels like it’s just the two of us in the stadium.”Baekhyun couldn’t speak.“It’s quite like this, right?” Chanyeol’s lips slightly curved, but his eyes spoke nothing but the truth. “Am I doing a good job making it real now?”They’ve been together for the majority of this day but Chanyeol’s effect on him doesn’t cease. Every stolen glances caught, every lingering stare and every word that’s evidently directed to him causes his heart to flutter the same.This is exactly how he imagined it while writing on every page of that journal. He still can’t believe that every wishful thinking has turned into reality. Thinking about it warms both his heart and eyes.“Well you’re not… sweaty in your jersey.” Baekhyun breathed out, “But yes… it’s a lot like this.”Chanyeol nodded, smiling in satisfaction.“Good.” he said before catching Baekhyun off guard by throwing him the ball, “Now, don’t be an audience and challenge me, Byun.”Baekhyun gasped, “Wait I—!”Chanyeol sent him a teasing look and ran back to the center of the court, tone testing.“What, giving up already? Show me what you’ve got, Byun.”Baekhyun squinted his eyes, dribbling the ball anyway.“This is dumb, Park.” he hissed out loud and tried shooting anyway. It went straight into the ring, “OH!”The boy glanced back at the basketball captain with widening eyes, too shocked from the shot he did. With a deep chuckle, Chanyeol took big steps towards him while he’s still laughing in disbelief.“Yeah! See?” now he grabbed the ball again, “Now give me that.”Baekhyun tried snatching it back despite being obviously no match against the taller and more skilled player, “That’s unfair!”“Cry me a river.”Chanyeol grinned in between bumping against each other just to get the ball.Baekhyun frowned after Chanyeol scored two consecutive points while he breathlessly ran after him. The taller doesn’t even sweat from it. So being the sneaky b@st@rd that he is, Baekhyun hid a sly grin as he blocked Chanyeol’s way by simply standing too close right in front of him, eyes directed on his face.This seemed to work when Chanyeol held back, blinking rapidly because of the little space. When he’s finally distracted by their close proximity and intense gaze, Baekhyun skillfully snatched the ball and ran away laughing in victory.He yelled happily when he shot the ball in the ring again.“Wow. Okay, you got me there.”“Ha! Take that!” Baekhyun grinned and threw him the ball once again. Though instead of dribbling, Chanyeol simply held it close to him."Nice, nice..." he flashed a small beam, "Let's do another game then, Byun."He waited for Baekhyun to settle down from his excitement to completely get his attention."One pass, one confession." Chanyeol said with a hint of sly smile lingering on his lips. Baekhyun’s expression fell as soon as he figured out what he meant."Park...""We'll keep the ball running. I confess something, and then you. No questions asked." Chanyeol spoke with certainty, "Whoever speaks last, wins."Baekhyun nervously laughed, "You're crazy...""The winner gets another prize. Very much like your little quizzes, right?" this time, Baekhyun became even more astounded, but Chanyeol continued to speak. "If I win, then more dates. Deal?"The boy is speechless. There’s a bit of fear in his chest as Chanyeol said that. He’s suddenly scared whatever the captain is up to. Whatever he’s about to say, especially."Come on, Byun." Chanyeol muttered while staring at the dumbfounded boy, "I've been warming up for this game for so long."It’s probably because this was the thing he wanted yet also feared the most— a chance to tell the boy he likes what he truly feels. Say it himself while looking straight into his eyes.It always seemed so scary, but looking at Chanyeol’s determined gaze sparked courage in him too."Okay..." Baekhyun tried to keep his voice from trembling.The taller nodded."Let me start then." he suppressed a smile when he caught Baekhyun anxiously fiddling his hands, "I intentionally left my study materials on our second study session so we can go to dinner instead."Baekhyun almost complained, but Chanyeol beat him through it by raising his brows and throwing him the ball to keep the game moving."You probably know this already…” Baekhyun tried to flash a casual grin but he still gulped in between, “I... I've had a crush on you since my first week at Yonsei."He chose to say things that were already in his journal. Chanyeol surely knew about it but he still smiled from ear to ear, causing Baekhyun to blush furiously."Stop smiling like that.""Can't help it." Chanyeol said after taking the ball harshly thrown to his chest, "I didn't show up before my final exam because I was self-studying." Baekhyun sent him another sharp look for this, "I was never focused whenever we study together."Baekhyun badly wanted to react again. He certainly noticed Chanyeol losing his focus during their review but he never thought their sessions were that useless.He thought of another fact from his journal."I used to stare at you whenever you space out, thinking about the possible thoughts running in your mind." Chanyeol grinned again as if he hadn’t known, "Stalker, I know.""I like where this is going." he cooed. Baekhyun frowned and threw him the ball, "I paid the maintenance staff to get the keys for this court. It was locked when we arrived."Baekhyun was surely oblivious not to know that. So that’s why he was taking too long for someone who simply needed to check if the door was locked!"I knew it was sketchy." he narrowed his eyes before a smile formed on his lips, "I like it when your ears stick out whenever you wear a cap."Chanyeol didn’t even look offended by this and offered his palms for Baekhyun to throw the ball again. He looked like he’s too eager to confess about the next one."I paid the other three students not to choose you during that tutor briefing.” he shrugged tauntingly even when the other boy’s eyes widened in disbelief.“Wha—”“I was never bad at Economics, Baek... I'm actually kinda good at it." he said unapologetically. Baekhyun gasped from the revelation; so that’s why those students didn’t even bother paying attention to him! There he was, thinking he was too dumb for them when in fact they were bribed!D@mn Park Chanyeol."You scam!" he stomped a foot with a look of betrayal on his face, "Were you mocking me when I was teaching you?!"Chanyeol grinned, "Oops, no questions for a response.""Fine." he snorted, coming up with another confession when the ball came back to him."I… used to sit outside the room after Business Math because you're taking Constitution in the next room."The taller isn’t as reactive as he was but his little smile is too obvious."I've read your journal twice before giving it back to you.""Asshat." Baekhyun mumbled in annoyance that earned him an airy laughter. He slightly panicked when nothing else followed in his mind, "What else... I think you know everything by now!""Are you giving up?"Baekhyun shook his head when he saw the courage on Chanyeol’s face. He obviously still has a lot to say so he doesn’t want to remain standing here while combusting on every upcoming confession.He resorted into something that wasn’t directly written on his journal."No." he gulped, "I used to get jealous of Sooyoung a lot..."Chanyeol hummed, appearing a little more serious. "I used to think you were dating Yeri.""That is absurd." Baekhyun frowned upon receiving the ball but the taller simply shrugged. He took another deep breath before continuing, "Your voice is... how do I say, one of my favorite things... about you."Chanyeol took the ball and tilted his head to stare at his face intently."I..." he mumbled with a smile, "love it when your cheeks brighten whenever you smile so big. It makes me really happy."This was the last straw to stop Baekhyun. He realized he doesn’t have anything else to confess. Or at least there’s nothing else he can directly say to Chanyeol without being scared."Given up?" he nodded when Chanyeol asked, hoping there’s nothing more from him too. But the basketball captain simply offered his hands to get the ball again, "Keep the ball moving, Byun, cause I have a lot more to say."Baekhyun blinked before passing him the ball again. Chanyeol didn’t waste a second as he proceeded to another confession, as if postponing it would only take his courage away."Have I mentioned how I think your voice is the best thing ever?" he told Baekhyun, gulping in between a pause. "And that I've been a big fan of it for years now, sending you nothing but thumbs up because I couldn't simply form proper words after hearing you sing?"Baekhyun stared at him, stunned. A name instantly entered his mind and he knew he’s not wrong."Toben..."Chanyeol smiled before continuing."And that when I figured out that my internet crush is the introverted transferee, I badly wanted to walk up to you and ask you out." he chuckled while remembering his own silliness, "'Hey, I'm your avid follower under the alias of my dog's name.' Imagine that."The captain’s voice sounded so firm, but some words still came out shakily. Baekhyun couldn’t even believe he’s seeing Chanyeol so nervous in front of him. Because of him.Chanyeol then looked into Baekhyun’s eyes that were still staring at him in disbelief. Every next word genuinely escaped his lips as if they’ve always been meant to be said and heard, for the longest time."When I got to know you better, I've come to realize that you're so much more than your angelic voice. That you're actually one of the most genuine people I knew. And I... basically lost my sh@t when I found that journal and knowing that you're crushing on... me." Baekhyun swallowed hard while listening intently, "Still sorry about stealing that, by the way. But I... just couldn't believe it. I knew I had to do something, no matter how dumb it all came out."Chanyeol took another step towards the boy who’s looking at him, pretty eyes glazed. The ball got dropped to the floor, he finally came to his last confession.“I really, really like you, Baekhyun.” he declared with the most courage he had to exert, “Even… more than that, I think. But I don’t want to make you panic… or anything.”A ragged breath had to escape Baekhyun’s lips, staring at the man of his dreams telling him the exact same things he never had the courage to admit.Chanyeol sighed in relief, as if he had been keeping it in for so long that he could finally breathe now. His eyes lightened up even if Baekhyun remained speechless."I'm sorry if I said a lot." he said even if he didn’t even look sorry at all, "I just had to let it out now. I always feel like combusting every time you're around and I was worried I'll mess it up again. I don't wanna mess up this one." he added firmly.Baekhyun still couldn’t find the right words, but he tried opening his mouth to give Chanyeol an answer."I...""You don't have to say anything about it." Chanyeol assured him with a gentle smile, "I just want to officially confess... you have all the time to think about it."Baekhyun took this advice well, because there was really nothing he can respond with. How was he supposed to react about his long-time crush basically having feelings for him, too? Even longer than anyone could expect?He cleared his throat instead."Can we ask questions now?"Chanyeol nodded, "Sure.""How long... have you known I'm..." he couldn’t even finish his words now."Just this semester." Chanyeol chuckled, slightly abashed by the thought. "But I've always noticed your lips... uh, I mean the resemblance with B. I just confirmed it when I heard you speaking to Jongin."Even hearing him say ‘B’ sent him so many feelings, too. Baekhyun never thought anyone would be so attentive to compare that. Even Yeri didn’t notice that. She simply found out after sneaking in while Baekhyun scrolled through his channel in public. He doubts if they’re still friends now if she never knew.Chanyeol appeared so amused by simply watching the other wander in deep thoughts."Now can I ask one, too?" Baekhyun looked at him, "What was the meaning of the asterisks in your journal related to me?" it’s crazy to see how Baekhyun’s face instantly turned into a light shade of red, "Something about... what you want to do."He firmly shook his head."Nothing."Chanyeol smirked knowingly, "Come on, Byun. We're having confessions now, anyway!"Baekhyun remembered sobbing himself to sleep because of so much embarrassment that time his journal was in Chanyeol’s possession. Those asterisked words were the ones that bothered his life the most. It was so embarrassing."I don't want to answer." he glared when Chanyeol’s smile became even more devious, "And no, Park, it's not what you're thinking right now.""What am I thinking?" Chanyeol challenged but simply got another sharp look as a response, "I'll know it one day."Baekhyun didn’t answer anymore and silence enveloped them once again. He stared on the ground when he felt Chanyeol’s gaze still on his face."Chanyeol..." he started off and glanced up, "thank you for telling me... all of this. It means a lot.""It means a lot to me, too." Chanyeol mumbled back with a genuine smile.Baekhyun wanted to give him an answer now, even just something to hold onto. They both knew where it had to end up to, anyway."I'll think about it..."Chanyeol chuckled reassuringly, "Take your time."In the midst of it, the few lights that allowed them to look at each other died, making everything around pitch black. Normally, Baekhyun would scream in fear but now he’s too preoccupied that he barely even reacted."Sh@t." he heard Chanyeol cuss, "I forgot my payment was good for only a few minutes."Baekhyun took this chance to finally let out the biggest smile he’s been suppressing. He fought the urge to squeal along with it too, reminding himself that Chanyeol’s still there, and that he told him he’d think about it. If he did that, then he obviously didn’t need to.He knew he needed to wait for a little while. He already had a perfect time in mind."Let's go, Baek? They're turning off all the generators soon. And it's late." he felt a gentle tap on his arm, but Baekhyun held his hand to make it seem like he’s scared and he needed a guide. They didn’t need to see each other to picture each other’s faces while going out of the gym hand in hand."Chanyeol?" Baekhyun spoke while they made their way out with a small phone flashlight."Yup?"Baekhyun gulped before continuing."Your upcoming Championship game with SNU..." he said that slowed Chanyeol down for a bit, "Win that one.""Baek?" he asked again but Baekhyun simply gripped his hand firmer."Win that one and I'll give you an answer." he mumbled."Got it." Chanyeol looked at him even if he could only make out his silhouette from the dark, "Speaking of victory, I gotta claim that prize from that little confession game. Sorry Byun.""You think I mind?" Baekhyun chuckled heartily, "Maybe you forgot who's the longer stalker between the both of us?""I don't think so, B_hundred." the taller responded confidently, "I'm aware it's me." — “I need to go now!” he waved his beautiful hand in front of the camera, “I hope you guys enjoyed that live cover!”Baekhyun beamed brightly while scrolling through the comments on his latest cover. All of it were positive and encouraging again, some still convincing him to show his face. Before, that kind of comment made him a bit uncomfortable but now he’d gotten used to it. People will always be curious; he can’t take that fact away.He smiled bigger when a new text arrived.from: park
  Wow, I think that’s my favorite song in the world.
He started typing a reply when another one came again.from: park
  Is someone trying to motivate me before the game???
Baekhyun bit his lip while grinning from ear to ear. It was surely intentional. He’s been planning to cover Chanyeol’s favorite song for a while now but today was definitely the perfect opportunity.It’s his final game today.Despite the fear still lingering in his chest, Baekhyun mostly looks forward to it. He’s not waiting any longer.
   toben ∙ 16:28 
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥It’s crazy how a certain user that simply intrigued him before is the one sending him butterflies now with his usual multiple hearts in the comment section. He shifted to lay on his side while still smiling at his phone.to: park
  Is it? Well… purely coincidental.
Not a second passed and another text eagerly arrived again.from: park
  Can I call? I want to hear your voice.
Baekhyun wanted to. He wanted to hear his voice too after not seeing each other for days because of the team captain’s nonstop practice. But then he also kept his patience. He wouldn’t ruin his own plan.to: park
  Nope. Focus on that practice, Park. You have a big game tonight.
from: park
  I’ll win that one anyway. I have a prize to claim.
Baekhyun smiled, perfectly picturing the other snorting at his screen. You sure do.to: park
  Don’t be overconfident. You easily get distracted nowadays.
After continuous dates, they’ve really become too comfortable with each other. Sometimes, Baekhyun still refuses to believe this is the same guy he couldn’t even look straight into the eyes without feeling like fainting. Chanyeol still affects him the same, but now he doesn’t have to worry about making it obvious. They both don’t.from: park
  Hmm. And who’s to be blamed???
As usual, he’s halfway through his response and Chanyeol impatiently sent him another message.from: park
  Are you on your way to the stadium now? You better be there later okay
Baekhyun stared at the said text, gently smiling before texting back.to: park
  Of course, I’ll be there. Good luck!
He sat up from his bed, looking at the clothes he already prepared before going to the stadium. His phone beeped one more time.from: parkAaaah. ♥♥♥
  See you, Baekhyunnie.
The side of Baekhyun’s lips curled up, putting his phone down to finally get dressed. You will, Park.After preparing, Baekhyun got everything else he needed to bring and came down from his room when he’s good to go. He stopped at the end of the stairs upon seeing his mother in the living room. She’s wearing a dress and light makeup.“Mom?” he’s even more intrigued as he looked at his father who came out of the kitchen, “Are you guys going somewhere?”His mother sheepishly laughed while his father simply gave him a forced smile.“Ah… we’ll be going out for dinner, Baek.” his mother answered for the both of them. They didn’t fail to notice the way their child’s eyes lightened up from hearing it.“Really?” he smiled big, “Wow! A weekend date, huh?”It was the first time in so long that his parents went out on a date. It’s been rough for their family for the past few months and nothing makes Baekhyun happier than seeing them slowly patching things up. He’s really, really happy.“You’re going out too, right? Do you want us to bring you something later?” his mother asked as he walked towards them to say goodbye.“Nope! I’ll eat outside. You guys have fun!” he beamed happily while kissing them both on the cheeks, “Love you Mom, Dad.”“Love you honey.”Baekhyun got out of the house with the brightest smile. His day hasn’t ended yet but everything has gone into place. It’s still about to get better.He arrived at the stadium just in time for the audience to go in. As usual, he waited for everyone to settle down before going to his own seat. He still had to do something before sitting. That being said, he saw one of the commentators glance towards his way.The crowd has never been this intense. Understandable since this is the final game between the two big universities. People are wearing their respective team’s colors, some even took it a notch higher by wearing face paint. The audience is already chanting their own cheers too. Baekhyun smiled at the overall energy of the place. Chanyeol will surely be more motivated once he sees the overflowing support for him and the team.“Stadium is packed!” the commentators started off and earned a louder shout, “Tonight, we’re in our final game between Yonsei and SNU!”“A tough one. People are anticipating who will bring the trophy home tonight.”SNU has a fair amount of audience to back them up but Yonsei students are just on another level tonight. Baekhyun could see everyone’s hunger for that back-to-back win. They even overpowered the others with their university chant.
  “Ha neul eul Nal-eu-neun Doksuri!”
The stadium became more heated when the game started and both teams were started to get introduced. Every player earned loud cheers from both sides. Baekhyun kept his eyes locked on the entrance where Yonsei’s team is coming out, looking out for his player.“Park Chanyeol!” he let the crowd do the job of hyping the team captain up. Baekhyun simply watched him with an applause and occasional coos, even when the big smile on his handsome face made him want to do so much better.To sum it up, the crowd didn’t calm down the whole ten minutes of the first quarter. Both teams were clearly mad for that win. Chanyeol managed to point consecutively and maybe even p@ss@ng some of the players from the other team because of his obvious good mood in what’s supposed to be a heated game. Nonetheless, he didn’t chill and vigorously took that first quarter for Yonsei.“Yonsei got the first quarter!” the commentator yelled in the middle of the crowd wilding up, “As expected—courtesy of Park who has the biggest score as of now!”“Yonsei’s center and captain is all smiles today.” the other said with an intriguing tone, “Looking very chill but you can see he’s driven to get that win!”Baekhyun looked up at the screen above where the camera was focused on the sweaty Chanyeol. He’s panting on the bleachers while their coach spoke to them, but anyone could notice the frequent look he made around the stadium. The boy smiled on his seat, not making any effort to be found.“As always!” the commentators said before the start of the next quarter, “But we’re not going to underestimate SNU with that gap!”Second quarter was much more ferocious. SNU was definitely not giving anyone an easy game, scoring consecutively this time. Baekhyun clasped his hands when he saw the frustration slowly etching on Chanyeol’s face.“Lee Chaesol managed to throw a three-point shot!” the crowd roared when the quarter finished, “Second quarter goes to SNU!”Baekhyun found himself too focused on Chanyeol’s serious face. The captain looked so worried while talking to the team on the side.The audience barely calmed down on the start of halftime. The same fun segment started and everyone finally cooled down when the camera began rolling.“Our first fun cam star is…” Baekhyun pursed his lips when he saw his face on the big screen, “this cutie again!”The crowd cheered when they recognized him. Unlike before, Baekhyun simply smiled in response, too casually even. After looking at himself, he looked back at the bleachers and saw Chanyeol staring at the same screen with a big grin coming back on his face. There you go.“Oh look at that!” the camera even focused on him longer, “Park really got himself an avid fan.”“He’s done with the cutie pajamas now, huh?” Baekhyun suppressed a smile when the screen showed his hoodie, “Wait… ooooh, are we seeing Park’s jersey number on that?”“From the cute confessions to actually wearing his crush’s number on his hoodie!” some girls and boys were obviously rolling their eyes. A lot of them had done something better. But then Baekhyun had a different goal and he’s clearly getting it.“Park, you better give this fanboy an autograph.”Chanyeol’s eyes travelled from the screen to where he actually sits. Baekhyun faked an innocent smile even when the same drive found its way to the team captain’s eyes, reminding him of something now that he found what he’s been looking for.He was mad mad. Baekhyun could see the other team’s players flaring up on the court after Yonsei’s captain scored continuous points. Chanyeol played without remorse. He’s bringing himself and the whole team closer to that victory again and no one could stop him.“Yonsei leads 3rd quarter again!” the audience cheered louder when Yonsei’s players shared an embrace in the middle of the court as soon as third quarter ended, “The whole stadium won’t calm down!”“One more quarter and we’ll have an overall champion!”Baekhyun was confident that they’d get this. But even so, the last few minutes of fourth quarter and the whole game itself had him trembling. His breath shortened every time the gap became too close, or if someone missed a shot. Every look at Chanyeol made him feel like his life depended on this game.Technically, it does, right? Something huge depends on this victory so by all means, Chanyeol should get it.
  Please, let them have it.
“Yonsei for the final quarter!”“We have a champion!”Chanyeol got wrapped in a bunch of tight hugs, one with the whole team in it. Soon enough, he’s lifted into the air like their previous wins.He did it.The crowd was celebrating in victory while the medals and a huge trophy got handed to them. The basketball captain tried to look at a certain seat despite the falling confetti making it a bit more difficult. He accepted more hugs and handshakes while looking around to spot the same person, but he’s not there.Even in the middle of congratulatory moment, Chanyeol desperately looked for the team attendant he left his phone with. His heart jumped upon seeing a message received a few minutes ago.
  I’m near the locker rooms.
He would most definitely get in trouble for this, but Chanyeol took the medal off his neck and left it with the same attendant. He squeezed through the sea of people without thinking twice.“Cap, where are you going?” Jongin caught his shoulder, a hint of smile still on his face.“Jongin, tell coach I’ll be back okay?” Chanyeol huffed without stopping.“But—”“This will be quick!” he yelled at the point-guard, “I’ll be back!”He gained a few glances on his way to the stadium’s isolated locker rooms. The only time he felt safe was when he finally reached the said place with no other people around him. No one but the person he’s been wanting to see.“Baekhyun?”Baekhyun gasped in shock when he suddenly spoke behind. The boy looked a little more fidgety than usual. He tried to smile at Chanyeol even if he’s anxiously stiffening on the same spot.It just felt like the confession night all over again.“My number looks good on you.” Chanyeol told him with a grin.“Does it?” Baekhyun tried not to stutter, remembering the words he’s been practicing. “Everyone’s out there, celebrating…”“I looked for you as soon as the game ended.” Chanyeol simply shrugged even if Baekhyun simply stared at him, “Why are you here?”Baekhyun stayed on the same spot, breathing through his lips. The muffled sound of cheers outside seemed to make him even more nervous. But it’s now or never.The captain found it bizarre, taking a step closer.“Baek, why are y—”“Just give me a second, Park…” he paused when Baekhyun firmly ordered him. The latter settled his gaze on his face while speaking breathlessly, “Just…stay there.”“Okay…” Chanyeol blinked in awe, standing still. “Okay.”Baekhyun stared at Chanyeol’s face for a little more, chest heaving as he gathered all the courage he needed. Right then, he took big steps towards the basketball captain and placed a long and firm kiss on his lips.“Wha—” Chanyeol looked at him, eyes widened when he briefly pulled away.“Should I ask you now then… as the prize?” Baekhyun smiled even if the taller shook his head frantically, “Park, can I—”“Can I be your boyfriend, Byun?”He interrupted even if he’s obviously still stunned with that kiss. He couldn’t bear to be asked that one d@mn question.Chanyeol waited for so long for this guy to be his. He earned the right to be asking that.“Always so competitive, aren’t you?” Baekhyun mumbled after laughing. He pulled Chanyeol’s jersey towards the nearby shower room, “Come here.”The room was empty, amidst of the celebration still going on outside. Baekhyun slid the curtain close before kissing him again, in a whole different level this time.“Wow, okay this is hot.” Chanyeol gasped in between making out, “Is that a yes, then?”“We’re doing the asterisks now, what do you think?”“Wait— this is the asterisk?” the taller pulled away to look at him in disbelief, “Making out?”Baekhyun flashed a cheeky grin while an arm wrapped around his waist to pull him closer.“I told you it wasn’t what you were thinking.” he tauntingly responded and leaned in once again, “Perv.”“How many more games should I win, then?” Chanyeol’s whining got silenced by another hot kiss on his lips, “F@ck— forget it, let’s make out.”The other boy wrapped both his arms around his neck, parting his lips to give him more access. He could feel Chanyeol smiling against his lips, then he slightly pulled away to look straight into Baekhyun’s glazed eyes.“Baekhyun, I…” he started off and Baekhyun’s heart went frantic again. He tried to stop whatever he’s about to say by shaking his head but Chanyeol flashed another teasing smile instead.“No, no… no. Don’t say it here, it’s not romantic…”“I’m in love with you.” Baekhyun groaned, but his heart felt like jumping off his chest because of too much happiness. “I love you.”“We’re in a locker room…” he complained to the taller even when his eyes were tearing up, “Screw you. It’s not how I imagined…”Chanyeol simply chuckled before placing a few quick kisses on his lips again.“I can say it again and again, anyway.” he said and placed a much longer one, “I can even have them announce it outside, if you want. More journal entry worthy.”“Shut up…” Baekhyun grinned while their noses touched, “Kiss me again.”And so he did. They locked lips inside an empty shower room until they’re breathless. Until they both got to express the feelings they’ve been holding in for so long. Baekhyun was the first one to stop when he heard the cheers slowly fading from the outside. He realized they’ve been here for a while now. Much longer than he planned.“We should go.” he said even when the captain’s plump lips still looked inviting, “Someone might enter anytime soon.”They sneaked out of the shower room cautiously. Fortunately, people were still outside even if it’s probably a wonder why one of the biggest stars of the night suddenly disappeared.Chanyeol didn’t hesitate holding his hand on their way out, but Baekhyun slowed down while looking at their intertwined fingers.“Chanyeol…”The taller paused to look at him, “Hmm?”After checking if there’s anyone around, Baekhyun blinked a few times.“Can we… not tell anyone about us, first?” he wasn’t wrong when he saw how Chanyeol’s brows furrowed. “I mean… maybe some that we can trust but not everyone?”“Why?”He didn’t know how to explain it better, but he tried. He knew Chanyeol would understand.“I just… don’t really like attention. I don’t like people looking or talking about us all the time. I think it’s for the sake of us both.” he paused before uneasily looking away, “And if they dig up everything about me, they might…”Chanyeol’s eyes lingered on him when he slowly pulled his hand away.“Okay…” he nodded, “until when?”Now that Baekhyun is asked, he realized he hadn’t thought about it either.“We’ll figure it out…” he gave his serious boyfriend a reassuring smile, “But now, you have to go back in court first.”“You’re coming to the victory party, right?”“Sure.” Baekhyun got interrupted from walking when another quick kiss was planted on his lips, “Wha—”Chanyeol smiled apologetically, “I can’t kiss you for the next few hours. I just had to.”“I’ll forgive you for that.” he said as they walked back to the court, looking too casual like they weren’t making out in that shower room and officiated things.Baekhyun was lucky enough to be approached by Jongin while Chanyeol had to interact with other people. He stood on the side and simply smiled back whenever Chanyeol looked around to make sure he’s still there. Some girls walked up to congratulate him, making him look at Baekhyun every now and then but his cute boyfriend would simply smile reassuringly.The press photos went on while Baekhyun waited on the side. Right then, his phone vibrated from his pocket.“Mom? Dinner’s done?” his smile instantly faltered upon hearing sobs from the other line, “Mom… are you crying?”His mother told him about what happened, just when he thought everything was fine.“I…” he found it hard to respond when he heard the same old scenario again, “Okay. I’ll be there. Wait for me, okay?”Baekhyun stood near the other fans to be subtler. Chanyeol instantly saw him and walked to where he is right after taking another picture.“Chanyeol... I need to go home.” he flashed a guilty smile when Chanyeol got taken aback.“Now?” the dismay was evident from his tone, “We’re just about to go to the party…”“My Mom needs me.” he sadly smiled at the taller, fighting the urge to touch his cheek. “I’m really sorry… I wanted to go, I swear.”“It’s okay, Baek.” Chanyeol assured him with a little smile, “Is she alright? Let me drive you home.”“No. Everyone is expecting you there now.” Baekhyun shook his head, voice getting lower when other students got closer to them for their turn. “She’ll be fine. I just need to be there for her now.”“Okay…” Chanyeol looked like he badly wanted to embrace him again but for now, they could only share a smile.“I’ll just… text you, then?”“Later.” he left and ended up taking the bus home again, worried about certain things that got in the way of what was supposed to be a perfect day.That night, just when Baekhyun thought he can completely be happy for once, the sight of his parents going back to zero just proved him otherwise. He realized maybe there was no longer a point in hoping. — "Okay, uh..." Baekhyun shifted sideways to face his boyfriend who’s parking the car outside the gate, "never mention anything about the journal...""Yup.""Don't mention anything about me going to your apartment sometimes.""Most of the time." the taller corrected."Don't tell them anything about us kissing... or making out..." he said like it’s a crucial detail. Chanyeol grinned, "don't. Okay?"He anxiously exhaled while glancing up, thinking if he forgot something else."Don’t say we’re frequently going out on dates every week. Just say... uh, weekends?""Mmkay." Chanyeol nodded, "Am I your boyfriend?""No." Baekhyun answered mindlessly, "Uh... say that we're just hanging out sometimes and... uh..."Chanyeol intently looked at him, "Are we in love?"It was meant to be a joke so the other would lighten up but it only seemed to do worse. Baekhyun got even more pressured all of a sudden. He might’ve overlooked a lot of details and now he’s terribly nervous."I don't know... if they ask then..." he stuttered and rapidly blinked but a warm hand gripped his own."Hey, hey B. Look at me." Chanyeol leaned a little to catch his uneasy gaze, smile reassuring. "We don't have to do this if you still can't, okay?"Still worried, Baekhyun shook his head and let out another deep sigh."No. I want to..." he looked down, "I'm just really scared that it'll go wrong..."Chanyeol smiled lovingly while watching his troubled face. It was amusing to see Baekhyun getting more nervous than him about meeting his parents, but now he just simply wants to do everything to make him feel better."I'm not going to mess this up for you, promise." Baekhyun gently moved against his hand caressing his hair, "I won't even speak if you say so.""Well, you have to or they won't give you barbecue..." that made him chortle. Baekhyun managed to smile again despite still looking a bit unsettled, "I just never introduced anyone to my parents before so I'm really... nervous.""Me too." that was hard to believe so Baekhyun simply pouted. Chanyeol beamed before gently kissing him on the cheek, "I'll try my best to make them like me."Baekhyun just had to stare at the face smiling at him, feeling all giddy again. He couldn’t believe they’ve been together for a while now but Chanyeol can still make him feel like a shy fanboy."Just be yourself." he told him sincerely, "You're very likeable, babe."Another kiss was placed on his lips this time."Then you don’t have anything to worry about." Chanyeol booped his nose, "Shall we?"The two guys entered the gate, hearing the noise and laughter of the visitors from the back of the house. Baekhyun’s breath was already hitched even without talking to his parents yet. His face lacked color when her voice turned audible from the kitchen.Chanyeol held the wine he bought and gave his boyfriend another motivating smile."Baekhyun-ah!" his mother didn’t immediately notice Chanyeol, too focused on cooking. She simply acknowledged the presence of her son who went out of the house with the lamest excuse this morning, "What took you so long? Your cousins are grilling outside now."Baekhyun completely had his mouth shut in nervousness when his father came down from the stairs, slowing down upon seeing a new face beside his son. The latter completely stiffened when his mother also came out of the kitchen after the lack of response."Oh..." she blinked a few times, gently wiping her hands on her apron while looking at Chanyeol."Good afternoon, Mrs. Byun..." Chanyeol started off when the boy beside him obviously wasn’t planning to do the introduction. He bowed at them politely, "Mr. Byun."Baekhyun was still rigid on the same spot.The taller proceeded to hand the bottle of wine to Baekhyun’s father, "Happy birthday, Sir.""Oh, thank you..."An awkward silence surrounded them and the voices of their visitors outside became more prominent. His parents looked at the two boys expectantly, a hint of smile tracing on his Mom’s lips."Baek...?"Baekhyun gulped when they all waited for him to say something."Mom, Dad... this is Chanyeol." he mumbled shakily. God, he’s going to mess this up.The two nodded at this, waiting for further explanation. When their son kept mummed again, Mrs. Byun took initiative and timidly smiled at Chanyeol."Are... you a friend of Baekhyun?""Ah, ye—""He's actually my boyfriend, Mom... Dad." Baekhyun blurted out nervously, earning him a look from Chanyeol. "He's the one I'm with whenever I'm out..."No one spoke again right after that. Baekhyun had never wanted to slap himself this much. He managed to snitch two things he instructed Chanyeol not to say, but he couldn’t control his mouth.His usually quiet father asked the question this time."How long have you been together then?"Chanyeol parted his lips."Jus—""More than four months... but we just kiss, no s@x... promise." Baekhyun cussed under his breath after rambling another embarrassing answer, while Chanyeol stared on the floor with widening eyes.Now his parents looked equally stunned by the direct revelation. Baekhyun could only force a sheepish smile even if he badly wanted to slump on the floor in so much humiliation."Okay..." his mother cleared her throat and called his cousin outside, "Hayoon-ah! Can you guys tell your uncles and aunts to stay there with you for a while? We'll go out later."
  Oh god, what have I done?
"We wanna know more about you, Chanyeol. Let's eat here first." Mrs. Byun smiled at Chanyeol before raising her brows at her son, "Baekhyun, let him sit, please. I'll get some plates."Both of them left for a while to get the food prepared. His father had gone outside to check on his visitors. When the two were left seated in the dining room, Chanyeol finally looked at the man beside him who’s still terribly ashamed."Babe, what was that?""Sorry... I'll shut up." Baekhyun looked at him guiltily.The taller reached for his hand on his lap to grip it firmly before his parents come back again, "Don't be so tensed, okay?"Don’t be so tensed, yeah right. So easy to say.Baekhyun couldn’t even swallow his food properly, catching his parents looking at them every now and then. Once they all settled around the small table, he didn’t feel any less rigid no matter how Chanyeol sent so many reassuring smiles towards his way. Baekhyun wants one thing and that’s for his parents to have a good impression of him. Baekhyun wants to assure them that he’s the good match for him, especially since he’s his first boyfriend too.And maybe stop looking so uptight so that Baekhyun can finally breathe in relief."Are you studying at Yonsei too, Chanyeol?" he gripped his spoon tighter when his mother proceeded to the questions in between eating."Ye—""Yup! He is. He's a Political Science major. He plans to take Law after, Mom."Chanyeol could only smile awkwardly, giving Baekhyun a side-glance for answering for him again."Oh wow." he gulped when both his parents seemed impressed, "So do you live with your parents too?""Uh—""Nope. He lives in an apartment near the university. His parents are in Hannam. Chanyeol is really independent, right?" Baekhyun wasn’t even focused on eating anymore, as if he was simply standing by to catch the next questions coming. Chanyeol gripped his thigh under the table. This is the first time he saw Baekhyun this nervous, only by the thought of his parents possibly disliking his boyfriend.While Mr. Byun looked at his obviously anxious son, suppressing a smile.Baekhyun’s mother raised a brow in intrigue, staring at Chanyeol so that her son would know whom the question was directed to."Okay... so how did you meet our Baekhyun?""Well, we—""He's Yonsei's basketball team captain! He's really good at sports and really smart so I had a crush on him, he knew, then viola." the three of them look at Baekhyun in disbelief but the latter simply forced a chuckle, "Funny, right?""Do you... ever answer for yourself, Chanyeol?""Ah...” both boys laughed nervously, and Chanyeol honestly thought he could finally speak this time. “I'm—""He does!" Mr. and Mrs. Byun couldn’t help laughing now. Chanyeol gave a shy smile and had finally given up on trying to get his boyfriend to shut up.Baekhyun heaved heavily in front of them, obviously panicked. He tried to smile but his voice cracked as he continued."He does but not just now... cause I'm answering for him... cause I'm really nervous... and I kinda love him so much and I want you to like him too." he rambled shakily.They all fell speechless. His Mom smiled fondly while his father simply gazed at him because of this.Mrs. Byun hummed in awe, "Oh, honey..."Chanyeol looked at the boy beside him who’s sheepishly smiling down at his food after what he said."Sorry... I'll let him speak now." Baekhyun blinked rapidly before tapping Chanyeol, "Go on, babe...""Uhm—""Can I just say one more?"   "Chanyeol." Mr. Byun called on his way out to the back door, "Let's grill some barbecue outside."With another gulp, Baekhyun turned to look at Chanyeol who seemed thrilled about it. Not just for the barbecues, for sure. Baekhyun tried tagging along but his mother made sure he lets them."Stay here and help me with the dressing, Baek?"Chanyeol reassuringly grinned at the boy before going out. Baekhyun didn’t even notice he’s been watching them through the kitchen window, trying to get some signs from their expressions if everything was going just fine."Such a sweet young man." he turned to his Mom who spoke beside him. She was looking at the same people, too. "Your Dad seems to like him too."She smiled at her son before tilting her head towards the same direction again."Look at them."Baekhyun did. Both men were facing the opposite side so he could barely see their faces, except whenever Chanyeol glanced sideways. He could see his smile from where he was and it’s more than enough to relieve Baekhyun."Are you not mad at me, Mom?" he asked after a brief silence, "For suddenly bringing someone here... as boyfriend... or..."Mrs. Byun sighed."Sweetheart..." she shifted sideways to face him. She didn’t like the distress all over her son’s face for something unnecessary, "you know your preferences are never an issue to us.""But we never... really talk about it that much." Baekhyun mumbled."We'll talk about it if you want to talk about it." she said while looking all over Baekhyun’s beautiful face, "But what matters to me the most is your happiness, honey. My heart is where yours is."Baekhyun finally cracked a genuine smile. It means so much hearing this from them once in a while."Chanyeol is a good man, I can tell." Mrs. Byun still had this little smile while watching the men having their own conversation outside, "The way he looks at you... some people don't get to experience that, not even me."She said it so casually, but it hit a certain spot in Baekhyun’s chest. His gaze lingered on his Mom before it travelled back to Chanyeol, her next few words sounded so much more meaningful just with the sight of him."You're both lucky."  They decided to let Chanyeol go before it got late. In a span of a few hours, the man managed to charm Baekhyun’s parents and relatives in the celebration. The latter couldn’t believe he had to answer a lot of absurd questions just because they were that curious about his boyfriend. Chanyeol saved him a lot of times and did most of the explaining when he began frowning every time.His mother sent them outside. Baekhyun didn’t see his father since he quietly came up to their room in the middle of the celebration. For some reason, he noticed it more than his Mom did. Or at least that’s what she wanted him to think."I had such a great day." Chanyeol exhaled deeply, still sporting a big smile as he sat in his car. "I can't believe we were worrying about this earlier."Baekhyun simply stood outside his window, resting his arms on the door."I know." Baekhyun could finally say it now, "My parents love you."His boyfriend grinned proudly."Must be the Byun genes." he said that earned him a light pinch.Chanyeol drooped down to give him a quick kiss. Baekhyun smiled at this before he remembered something."Hey, Chanyeol..." he started off gently, "did my Dad mention anything about my Mom? Or their problem?"As expected, Chanyeol looked rather confused."No..." he shook his head, "Sorry, Baek. I don't think he mentioned anything about that."Baekhyun slightly gulped as he forced a smile."I just... he wouldn't talk to me about it, you know?" he answered while looking abashed, "It seems like he'd tell you about it."Despite his smile, Chanyeol can easily see through him. He can tell how much this matters to Baekhyun."Do you want me to?" he offered, "Try and talk to your Dad?"Baekhyun briefly paused before shaking his head firmly. This should be his family’s problem alone. He shouldn’t even have mentioned this to him."No, you shouldn't even be dragged to this." he told Chanyeol, "They'll be fine. They were in good terms today, anyway.""For sure." Chanyeol agreed, loosely basing from the situation he witnessed today. He didn’t want Baekhyun to worry about it so much too, “It's gonna be fine, babe."Baekhyun decided to take this advice, telling himself that it should be a fine day and nothing should be spoiling it."So by the way... about that varsity party." he paused when Chanyeol raised a brow, "I don't think I should go...""But why? We won't be too obvious." Chanyeol sounded dismayed. He tried insisting, "Jongin's kinda expecting us."Baekhyun sighed."Still, I don't wanna risk it. Someone might notice our little interactions, that's going to be messy.""Not if we'll be careful, like how we always are in the campus?"Chanyeol tried to smile pleadingly but Baekhyun simply looked at him with finality."We talked about this, right?"This got the taller’s smile wavering. Chanyeol blinked and nodded."Okay, we won't go." he said like it’s not a big deal when Baekhyun became a little more serious, "Let's just cuddle and watch Harry Potter."That’s actually the best alternative. Smiling in satisfaction, the other boy planted a kiss on his lips through his car window."Let’s do that." he said, failing to notice how a trace of dismay lingered on his boyfriend’s smile. — “I saw them together at the parking lot this morning…” their subtle glances didn’t go unnoticed to Baekhyun, “I remember what Jiyeon said…”Baekhyun swallowed while putting his books bag in his bag. He could tell that they’re not the only ones looking at him. He decided to go somewhere distant, walking past his classmates who continued talking as if he didn’t have ears.“That’s impossible.” one of them said, chuckling derisively. “I don’t think Chanyeol would…”“Yeah, from Sooyoung?”“Maybe they’re just friends… he was his fanboy, anyway.”The student had to grit his teeth hard and keep a straight face. Pretend he didn’t hear them, as usual. He’d always be the one to adjust.He understood where they’re coming from. Compared to Chanyeol’s exes, what a downgrade, right? Especially to that cheerleader, or anyone else basically.It surely is hard to believe.When Baekhyun wouldn’t stop hearing their voices in his thoughts as he walked on the corridor, he’s reminded why he never wanted to let anyone know about his relationship with Chanyeol. Why he never revealed his identity to his online followers. Or why he simply couldn’t stop comparing himself to other people. At this point, it’s already exhilarating.“Hey, Baekhyun!” Jongin smiled as if he was just looking for him. Baekhyun looked around and saw some students passing by gave them glances.“Hi…” he forced a little smile, still uneasy about the littlest attention.“About the plan—”Baekhyun interrupted him, sounding a bit critical. “Can we talk somewhere else?”Jongin blinked in surprise before reluctantly nodding. “Okay.”It took them a while before finding a spot that was a bit isolated. Jongin obviously wanted to ask why he was too eager not to be seen but Baekhyun’s clearly not in the mood to talk too much as well. He simply instructed him about the plan for Chanyeol’s surprise party. The team organized one after their captain got qualified to some of the best law schools in Seoul. Baekhyun’s job for the said event was to distract Chanyeol until the venue was fixed.It was a simple task, really. That’s why it was hard to tell why Baekhyun seemed so preoccupied all throughout the conversation, mindlessly nodding even if Jongin wasn’t really sure if he understood.After talking to Jongin, Baekhyun chose to wait for Chanyeol on the bench near Baek Nak Jun’s statue. Very few people walk past here at this hour, allowing him to find his peace back and feel better again once Chanyeol arrives. They’re about to celebrate tonight and his downcast shouldn’t be spoiling what’s supposedly Chanyeol’s best night.He’d get over this soon.Baekhyun’s phone rang in the middle of waiting. His Mom was calling him in such an unusual time.“Mom?” Baekhyun wearily shut his eyes when he heard her faint sniffing from the other line again, “Mom, why are you crying again? What is it th—”
  “Baek… your father’s leaving me.”
He straightened up from his seat, blinking slowly.“What?” Baekhyun started shaking his head, “No… no, you guys are okay now, right—”“He said he wants a divorce…” his mother continued with still breaking voice, “He left… just now, with some of his things. He said he’ll look for a new apartment for now.”Baekhyun couldn’t speak right after that. He could only hear his mother’s light sobs from the other line, slapping him with the truth that it’s really happening. Their family has completely crumbled down.“I can talk to him…” he gulped, “He’ll listen to me… I’ll convince him to go back, he’ll surely—”
  “Baekhyun, it’s done. It’s useless… he hates me so much.”
“That’s not true! Just try a little more, Mom, please… don’t give up on each other.” his voice raised while breathing heavily.“Chanyeol…” he blinked rapidly upon hearing the name out of the blue.“What?” he asked even if his heart was already beating frantically for a reason yet to be known, “What’s with Chanyeol?”“He started to become like this after talking to Chanyeol.” his mother said weakly, “Did you tell him about us, Baekhyun? I asked him what they talked about and he wouldn’t respond properly.”Baekhyun felt even more crushed. There were a lot of questions in his head, but he couldn’t utter any word anymore. He recalled the clear image of them talking. He recalled how happy he was while watching them, thinking that his life began getting so much better when Chanyeol came.
  “He was just saying sorry… he’s so sure about the divorce after that.”
He remembered that clearly. So he wanted to know how. How did it end up this way?
  “Just like that… Baek.”

   

   

   
“Hi.” the taller placed a kiss on top of his head, “How long have you been waiting?”It’s almost six in the evening and the basketball captain still had a lot of energy. A good thing for someone who still had a party to attend. He barely even noticed the unusual silence from his boyfriend as they walked along the university premise. He was blabbering a lot, like his usual talkative self around Baekhyun. The latter would only give an occasional nod or hum, gaze directed straight ahead.“The guys are acting weird in the practice today.” Chanyeol continuously spoke, dismissing the decreasing distance between them since they’re nearing the gates anyway. No one was close to see them too, “It’s even funnier because Jongin is so obvious when he’s trying to cover up something just like their surprise party for me two years ago. I was just pretending I didn’t—”“Chanyeol.” Baekhyun firmly said beside him, giving a quick side glance while still walking. “Don’t walk right beside me. People can see.”“We’re just walking…” Chanyeol chuckled when he looked around and saw a very few students far from them and some university staff, “Surely, they won’t mind.”“Yes, they would.” the other boy said while still looking ahead, “It’s not usual for them to see you with someone like me, Chanyeol.”“Babe, who cares about what they think? They don—” he retreated from holding his shoulder when Baekhyun paused to look at him coldly.“I care!” he said with so much frustration, “Please, let’s just keep our distance in the school grounds.”“Okay.” Chanyeol immediately nodded and kept distance, “Okay. I’ll walk right here…”Baekhyun continued to walk ahead of him until they reached the parking lot. It was also clear to Chanyeol that something’s wrong when he snapped like that. But as always, he merely assumed it’s simply exhaustion or Baekhyun’s unpredictable mood swings.“Can I stand beside you now?” he caught his pace and walked right beside him, but Baekhyun slowed down this time with lips pursed into thin line. “Where do you want to go? Shall we eat first? There’s a new movie out—”“What did you say to my Dad?”Chanyeol stopped when the other looked at him with bloodshot eyes, lips slightly quivering.Confusion etched all over his face, “What?”Baekhyun did a dry sniff before seriously staring at him.“After you talked… after his birthday, he started becoming distant to my Mom again and now he’s asking for a divorce.”“I don’t know…” Chanyeol huffed out, panicking as he tried to recall whatever they talked about that day. But he didn’t remember anything bad that he possibly said, “I don’t… remember saying anything bad. I don’t know, Baek. I’m so sorry… we were just casually talking about you—”“My parents were already trying, Chanyeol…” Baekhyun had to let out a desperate sigh, “I’m trying to fix my family here and you just have to say something so impulsive!”“I can talk to your Dad…” Chanyeol offered but he shook his head.“No…” Baekhyun firmly said, “Don’t bother. That will only make things worse.”Chanyeol felt a sharp pain in his chest when he tried reaching out for his hand, but Baekhyun instantly pulled it away. Baekhyun looked so worn out now that he finally got to see it better. He looked like everything just piled up all together and crashed onto him to pull a certain trigger. Not just his parents’ divorce.“Just… I can’t… stop having these thoughts.” he said after wiping his cheek, “what could you have said to make him leave my Mom?” he paused when the lump in his throat made it more difficult for him to continue, “And at what point of our relationship… will you say the same things to me?”Chanyeol looked up, blinking from the last few words. He gritted his teeth before slowly shaking his head.“I know you’re mad, Baek… but that’s just not fair.” he said pleadingly. It hurt him so much that Baekhyun thought about him that way. That he’d be capable of saying that, “You know it’s never my intention to hurt you. Even if you want to keep me as a secret, I’m fine with it. I never complained. But I think that’s just not fair to say—”“Okay, now you’re bringing that up?” Baekhyun looked at him in disbelief, getting more and more blinded by anger. “You know why we can’t and I thought you understood!”“You’re worried about what people would think… or say, I know that.” Chanyeol said while looking at him directly, “But how about me? How about what I feel?”Baekhyun fell silent.The stolen glances. The distance they had to maintain. The secret smiles. The way Baekhyun flinches whenever someone looks at them. It was killing him. Chanyeol tried to understand why it’s so hard to show everyone how much they love each other but it’s just difficult sometimes. He was always made to feel like everyone else mattered more to his boyfriend than their happiness. Now, he just had to finally say it.Baekhyun clenched his jaw, but didn’t say anything. It felt like he’s given more reason to be mad. He always told Chanyeol why he didn’t want to let anyone know about them and he would always agree. Now he’s taking it against him? Now that he feels so broken already?At that point, Baekhyun just refused to see every point he’s trying to make. While Chanyeol realized that the last thing he wants is to lose him, too.“I’m sorry.” the taller apologized but he’s not having it anymore, “I shouldn’t have brought that up now. Forget it. Let’s just go, babe—”“No, you go ahead.” Baekhyun said without looking at Chanyeol’s shattered expression, “I’m taking a cab.”“Baekhyun, please…”“I want to be alone, Chanyeol.” Baekhyun firmly told him and began walking away, “Let me fix this on my own first.”Baekhyun left him alone, dismissing the continuous texts from Jongin about further instructions for the supposed party. —
  Are you awake?
 
  The guys threw me a surprise party yesterday.

  It was really fun, though I had to go home earlier than them.

   

  Did you have dinner?

  I watched Eternal Sunshine, by the way. I understand why you like it a lot.

   

  Yoora went here today. To visit. She thought she’d see you so she was bummed.

  Maybe we can have lunch with her sometimes. She’s dying to meet you.

   

  I’m really sorry, B

  I really miss you. So much.

   

  But take your time

   

   
It was awful.For the past weekend, all he ever did was avoid Chanyeol. It wasn’t the easiest thing to do when the other would send him messages every now and then. Very much like their usual catching up, except it’s all on him. Baekhyun wouldn’t send a single text back. Chanyeol also seemed to get the hint and never tried calling him. He knew Baekhyun needed this time for himself and for his family.He stayed with his Mom all the time. The first day was an emotional one for her, but she never said anything to Baekhyun whenever he asked what really happened to them. It’s like she’s scared to break her son’s heart even more by elaborating their downfall. Baekhyun hated it. He’s not a child anymore. They’re just making him shoulder the baggage when they try protecting him like this.When he saw his mother reviewing an important file that looked exactly like divorce papers, he somehow understood why they tried keeping some things on their own. Simply watching her sign them without even shedding another tear broke him further. He was the one that cried hard in his room that night. Maybe this was what they didn’t want him to go through, after all.At Monday morning, he got taken aback upon seeing her back to normal again. His Mom is in her office clothes, sipping her coffee while reading the newspaper. She didn’t look as miserable as her son right now, who had visible dark circles under his eyes, looking so deprived of sleep and soul.“Mom?” Baekhyun slightly panicked, “Where are you going?”“Work.” she said casually that earned her nothing but a look of disbelief from the boy, “I cooked you some breakfast, by the way. Just heat it.”“Wait, wait.” Baekhyun stood right in front of her, looking so worried. “You can skip work first, Mom. Just say you’re sick… stay here for a while.”“Why?” he raised his brows in disbelief when she asked. Wasn’t it an obvious reason?“You’re still not fine…” he mumbled and heard a deep sigh from her.“Baek, honey… I’m fine.” she said reassuringly while standing up from her seat to walk towards him, “I’m okay, don’t worry.”“Mom, you’re getting a divorce…” he insisted even if he’s completely aware that his mother was never the type to pretend and sugarcoat things, “I know it’s painful that’s why I’m here for you… no need to pretend it’s fine.”He just… refused to believe that it’s this easy for her. For both his parents.They had been together for a long time, right? They have a son. Why was it a piece of cake for them to move on and continue life separately?“I know you’re affected by this, honey. I’m really, really sorry for that.” he gulped when she sincerely apologized. Baekhyun couldn’t accept it. For the first time, he saw something in his Mom’s eyes that he barely saw before. “But please don’t let this ruin things for you. It’s between us, your Dad. It’s not your fault or responsibility.”She looked so free.“Life goes on, Baek. For all of us.” her hand caressed his cheek, “Don’t worry about us now. Okay?”   After his last class for the day, Baekhyun instantly left. Like he’s scared to bump into someone.His eyes looked dead and his body felt heavy. Still, it couldn’t compete to the weight in his chest. His mother’s advice just won’t apply to him. He couldn’t figure out how his parents could easily do that. Move on like nothing happened while he’s still here, stuck in misery because he never got to figure out what went wrong for the family he values so much to be ruined like this. He simply wanted a proper explanation but no, they left him both crushed and confused.It’s even worse when the only person he had was the same one who brought things to this point. Baekhyun guessed he didn’t really have anyone, then.He just couldn’t look at Chanyeol without being frustrated. That’s probably why he chose to avoid him since then because he didn’t want to ruin everything even more.But what exactly is he doing now? How is this helping?“Baekhyun-ah.”He instantly looked up from the floor when a familiar voice called him. His father was waiting near Yonsei’s gate.The man gave him a little smile even if Baekhyun didn’t return anything. The boy hardly fought the urge to hug him tight after not seeing him for a few days. He doesn’t know if he’d ever get used to going back to their home without seeing his Dad there. Simply thinking about it is unbearable.“Dad, why are you here?”The older gulped, “I’m just hoping if I can drive you home.”“You’re going back?” Baekhyun couldn’t conceal the hope from his tone, but it crashed so soon when his father sadly smiled and shook his head.“No…” he told his son honestly even if it’s hard, “I talked to your Mom before coming here, Baek. It’s clear for the both of us now.”Baekhyun’s eyes warmed with tears again. He looked at his father, pleading for answers.“Dad… why?”His father has always been a quiet man, never vocal about his feelings. But right then, his eyes were vividly filled with so much pain while looking at the drastic effect of their choices on Baekhyun. He knew he had to give him all the answers he needed.“Let’s go to our favorite dessert place.” —to: park ♥♥♥
  Chanyeol?
Baekhyun spaced out after sending the message. The silence in the house was deafening, considering he’s all alone. It’s only broken when not a minute had passed and his phone already rang from Chanyeol’s incoming call. It was as if he’s just always waiting for Baekhyun.“Baek?” he tried to hide the eagerness in his voice,“You texted… what is it?”Baekhyun remained sitting on the edge of his bed. He caught a glimpse of himself through the mirror nearby, getting to see how swollen his eyes were, still.“Can we meet?” his tone barely implied anything that could give the other a sign, “I need to say something.”Chanyeol didn’t answer immediately. When he did, fear became too evident in his voice.
  “What… is it?”
Baekhyun gulped.“I’ll tell you later.” he muttered, “Is it okay?”“Okay…” Chanyeol said after an audible sigh, “Where?”“I’ll just text you.” Baekhyun said and didn’t make it any longer, “See you.”After a moment of thinking, he decided a place to meet up. He told Chanyeol he’d meet him near his apartment building. That’s the best place to do it. He wouldn’t want to make it more difficult for the other anymore.Baekhyun had been thinking the entire day. He had so many realizations after that talk with his father. That’s probably why as he set up the camera on his usual spot, it’s already much easier than he expected. He repeatedly looked at himself through the mirror, thinking whether he should put a light foundation or concealer to at least cover the circles around his eyes. In the end, he sat on his recording chair with bare face.As soon as he pressed record, the worries came back all at once. He felt like throwing up, but he mastered and got a grip of his courage to stay in front of the camera.“Hello, everyone.” he awkwardly smiled at it, despite his heart beating frantically against his chest. “So… as you can see this is a really different cover because… first of all, you can see my face now.” Baekhyun gulped, “Some might recognize me somewhere… from school, from the streets, or convenience store. Who knows, really…”He paused.There’s still the same hesitation. Same urge to turn the camera off and delete what he already recorded. But he’s reminded of the main reason why he’s finally doing this. It’s much stronger than all his doubts.So he spoke again, with more conviction this time.“I’m Byun Baekhyun, by the way. I’ve been running this channel anonymously for more than two years now. Mostly because… I’m anxious about how people would perceive me if they know too much about me. I was so scared to be criticized because… I just easily get so insecure.” there he said it, and it felt so great. His smile became braver, “But over the past two years, you’ve given me nothing but positive feedback and encouragement. And now I finally have the guts to let you know me better.”But it was just the start. He had so much to say and he didn’t know how far this courage would take him. He knew that he would possibly regret this later on. Still, Baekhyun exhaled a deep breath and continued.
  “Okay…”

   

   

   
Baekhyun took the bus towards Chanyeol’s apartment.He spaced out the whole ride, simply staring out the window while his thoughts continuously ran in his head. After trying multiple times, he decided not to practice the words to say. He’d let it go genuinely.Upon nearing the village, he stared on his phone while the video uploaded. Unlike before where he would recheck the content and read the first surge of comments, he immediately exited the app, just in time as the bus stopped. He got off and took a minute to walk towards the small park close to the said building.Baekhyun stopped when he saw Chanyeol’s back facing him. The taller was looking at his phone. It’s not hard to assume that he’s starting to watch the new and sudden upload. Before he could continue, Baekhyun took a deep breath and cleared his throat.“Hey.” he gave him a timid smile when Chanyeol finally faced him.“Baekhyun…” he gulped before putting his phone back in his pocket.They looked at each other for a while, both gazes longing. Baekhyun realized how much he missed Chanyeol but he couldn’t even step closer. He couldn’t. Something else needed to be done.“I talked to my Dad today.” Baekhyun started off with a sad smile.Chanyeol looked at him expectantly, holding his own breath.“What did he say?” he asked while blinking, “Was it my fault?”Baekhyun bit his lip before nodding.“Yes…”Chanyeol looked down to the floor, guilt written all over his face. It pains Baekhyun that he didn’t even bother asking or making sure he actually said something wrong. He simply accepted that he’s at fault and that he’d done something terrible.How did he deserve him?“He said…” he paused when his face slightly contorted because of tears brimming in his eyes, “that you were telling him how much you love me.”Chanyeol looked up at him, stilled by the said words. But Baekhyun continued.“How much I make you really happy even with the simplest ways…” Baekhyun tried to keep a brave face but his voice wouldn’t just stop breaking, “and that you’ve never been so sure about someone like… how you are with me.”He breathed out, “Oh Baek…”The other took another hard gulp before mustering a sad smile.“I guess my parents never felt that way for each other… even at their best times.”Tears finally blurred his eyes. Chanyeol watched him with so much concern.“Are you okay?” he asked an obvious question, but Baekhyun nodded frantically while taking big steps towards him. Chanyeol instantly opened his arms wide to accept and embrace him tight.Baekhyun started sobbing uncontrollably while he hushed him down.“I’m so sorry…” he mumbled against Chanyeol’s chest, clutching his clothes firmer. “for everything I’ve said… for everything.”“Sshh. Don’t worry about it now, baby.” Chanyeol whispered against the top of his head, “I don’t like it when you’re crying.”Baekhyun clearly remembered the moment he broke down in their favorite dessert place today. In front of his father who was simply smiling at him. When he heard all his explanation, everything made sense. He accepted that not all couples are really meant for each other, and his parents are one of them. They tried everything they could, but they just fell out of love.And he realized how stupid he was for taking it for granted when he already found the best he could ask for. Doubted him like what he always did to himself. He wants to be past that.“I’m so guilty about judging you like that. I really want to make it up to you…” he said and looked up at Chanyeol’s face. The taller smiled at the sight of his tear-stained face and reddened nose, “Even if it’s embarrassing I’ll do it…”“Just let me hug you more.” Chanyeol chuckled and wrapped him in his arms again.“I don’t want us to end up like my parents…” Baekhyun mumbled weakly, but Chanyeol heard it and pulled away to look at his face. “I know it’s too early to say that but…”“It’s not too early, we both know that.” Chanyeol gave him a sincere smile, “I love you. And I meant every word I said to your parents because I’m sure. I’m so sure about us and I don’t want to hold back anymore.”Baekhyun sniffed as he nodded.“Me too…” he bumped his forehead against the taller’s chest because looking at him still gets too much for him to handle sometimes. He just had to say this one confidently, “I’m so scared… because I really want you here with me for a long, long time, Park.”“Then you’re gonna get just that.” Chanyeol chuckled before gently holding his chin to make him look up again.“B, listen to me.” he started off while looking at Baekhyun, “One day, I’m not gonna be Yonsei’s basketball captain… or the cool guy everyone likes.” Baekhyun finally smiled because of this but he continued, “So whatever people say about us now won’t matter, then. We'll leave it here one day. All that matters to me in this relationship is what you think or say or do. To hell with everybody else.” his nose crinkled, “Okay?”Baekhyun nodded; to hell with everybody else.“I love you.”“That’s it.” Chanyeol grinned boyishly, wrapping an arm around his shoulder as he placed a kiss on his forehead. They started walking back to the apartment building, “I love you, too… I can always spot you even from the upper box.”“Stop with these journal references…”“Okay.” Chanyeol paused for a while, “Let’s just go inside and have some asterisks session.”“Park, I swear to god.”  “And aside from my true identity… I want to take this as a first step to make it up to the person behind all of this.” Baekhyun was obviously holding his tears back, “Who’s been… my driving force for the past few months… years, even.” he chuckled despite his eyes glistening, “Since he was my biggest crush and now that he’s mine for real, he’s still the reason behind every song I’ve ever sung here.”The smile wouldn’t leave Chanyeol’s lips while staring on his phone. His airpods were plugged in both his ears. He’s finishing the video he began watching a while ago.“Sorry about that.” the beautiful boy apologized after a tear fell down from his eyes. There’s a bittersweet feeling watching him like this, “But yes, I’m loved by such a good person and… I just don’t want to hide it anymore. He deserves to be shown off to everyone and I want him to know that. I’m just really… really lucky that he loves me, too.”Chanyeol feels the happiest he’s ever been. Watching Baekhyun finally having courage to go out of his comfort zone. To see him working on getting rid of his insecurities and be more vocal about his feelings. He’s grateful to have witnessed it all.“Well, I won’t drop a name for now. I want to make it up to him so he can decide where we first publicize this thing.” he blushed a little, “Which by the way… I’m praying hard, isn’t somewhere embarrassing.” Baekhyun sheepishly smiled at the camera, easily infecting him to do the same.From now on, he’d gladly be there while Baekhyun does all of this. While he reaches all his dreams. He’d be there to give him all the reason to feel good about himself and whatever he wants to do. Chanyeol would be there to remind him whenever he’s insecure that there’s no need to feel that when he’s basically someone’s whole world.“So if you’re watching this, we’ve probably already made up and are doing something else.” the boy in the video took a deep breath while smiling genuinely, “Okay, everyone. Sorry about all of this drama— let’s get to the cover for tonight.”Chanyeol smiled a little, moving his gaze from the screen towards the face pressed on his chest, hugging him in his sleep.His whole d@mn world. “Here’s Shall We.” the same boy spoke from his screen, mirroring the same smile that settled on his lips. “For the best boyfriend anyone could ask for.” — The comments easily started flooding as soon as the live video started.Instead, of the usual cute boy greeting everyone, it’s rather a new face. Well… not exactly new since he was introduced in the recent cover video posted last weekend.Still though, he sure had a lot of guts to start a live video by himself. On a channel he doesn’t own. Given the possibility that he’s about to get a good beating once he’s caught.“Hello guys…” Yonsei’s basketball captain innocently smiled at the camera, contrary to the fact that he’s wearing a tank top to expose his toned arms. “welcome to my channel.”
   raesoo ∙ 09:42 

  OMG are you finally doing a solo cover???

   appliepie ∙ 09:42 

  Why are you whispering, Yeollie?

   fluffeols ∙ 09:43 

  This isn’t your channel, Park give it back to our bobohu!!!
“I am bobohu’s boyfriend so this is my channel too, fluffeols.” he squinted his eyes before smiling at the other comments again, “No, raesoo I’m not doing a cover because no one else profits from my talent. And I am whispering because someone’s still sleeping.” he grinned before glancing at the sleeping person on the bed, covered by thick blanket.
   NiniKim ∙ 09:45 

  If you think we got over that nasty stunt last Saturday, then you’re wrong

  And pls put some decent shirt on, this is supposed to be a wholesome channel
“Blah blah, whatever NiniKim.” he mocked the comment from a familiar user that had been commenting on his boyfriend’s channel recently. He’s going to smack his head for that once they see each other again, “Hey, you guys know that handsome Yonsei point guard? That’s him. Go flood his account, he’s single.”“Alright, since that game last Saturday where… we made a little public scene.” he smirked simply at the thought, “I noticed that there are more followers from Yonsei now, too! Hello, welcome!”The comments flowed even faster.
   orangejello ∙ 09:47 

  Little public scene u mean when u made out in front of the whole stadium after Yonsei won????

   pjsungie ∙ 09:47 

  LITTLE PUBLIC SCENE HUH

   yerieh ∙ 09:48 

  Don’t worry about it Yeollie, it was really cute and hot :----)
Chanyeol unapologetically shrugged, looking back at his boyfriend to make sure he’s still asleep.It really was. He wouldn’t elaborate but to sum up what happened— it’s the perfect after-win moment, perfect way to finally publicize their relationship and the most perfect way to spend the night of their sixth month of dating.It was precious, and like what Yeri said, really hot. They couldn’t keep their hands off each other after that, for sure.He looked back to the camera.“Well, I had to make a statement, okay?” he lightly rolled his eyes, “And thank you, Yeri. For once, we agreed on something.” he came up with his little stunt again, faking a curious face.“Oh… and where is user toben?”
   luvbbh ∙ 09:49 

  Oh god

   fluffeols ∙ 09:49 

  Here he goes again
“He doesn’t comment!” Chanyeol creased his brows before gasping, “Aaaah, he’s the one doing the live!” he showed his stupid, big smile while wiggling his brows even when the comments begged him to stop. Jongin even sent a middle-finger emoji, “From being a simple commenter like you, now he’s dating B_hundred. Must feel nice… don’t give up on your dreams guys.”At first, people would surely be shocked that Baekhyun’s dating the cool and handsome Yonsei team captain. But eventually everyone simply wondered how Baekhyun was able to keep up with someone so dorky and weird.“Anyways, to end my cute little live, let me show you the view you’re missing every day since you’re asking for some cute stuff.” he quietly walked towards the bed, putting his finger against his lips. “Sshh…” then Chanyeol gently sat on the bed and showed his boyfriend on camera, who’s still cutely purring in his slumber.
   pjsungie ∙ 09:50 

  OMG BAEKHYUNNIE

   yolimerence ∙ 09:51 

  Why is he doing a ‘sshh’ as if we can make a noise????
“Hey baby…” he mumbled and the sleeping boy instinctively clutched his hand on his face. Chanyeol sent a bragging look at the camera.
   NiniKim ∙ 09:53 

  I came here for the cover

   myeorndog ∙ 09:53 

  HE’S SO CUTE OMG MORE PLS

   imisssoo ∙ 09:54 
BOOP HIS NOSE COWARD  ☹
   Kyungie2129 ∙ 09:55 

  No need to brag you lovesick idiot
Chanyeol laid down beside the sleeping Baekhyun and let the latter bury his face on his shoulder. He’s still holding the phone, but his gaze lingered much longer on his boyfriend's face, dismissing the comments that were either squealing or simply envious.He smiled. He can’t really blame them.“Babe…” Baekhyun sleepily mumbled, eyes still closed.“Hmm?” he hummed. Chanyeol’s too caught up reading the comments.“Spoon me please…”Chanyeol almost dropped the phone on the side. His eyes widened, slowly detaching himself from Baekhyun’s hold to do damage control. Everyone surely heard that.“Okay, just a minute.” he mumbled shakily and ran out of the room with the phone still in his hands. When he looked at the comments, everyone was in havoc.
   raesoo ∙ 09:57 

  OH MY GOD HAHAHAHA

   yolimerence ∙ 09:58 

  HE ASKED YOU TO SPOON HIM DUMBASS

   applepie ∙ 09:58 

  OMG how can he be so cute and hot at the same time
 whatsoodoing   ∙   09:58 
  Don’t turn off the live please!!!
“Okay… that was awkward. Sorry he sleeptalks all the time.” his own plan seemed to backfire on him when Baekhyun unknowingly asked for spooning in public. In his own channel. That was something exclusively for him to hear, so yes, he’s so dead. “Bye for now!”The fans continued to poke fun at him in the comments, he even caught another comment from Jongin before he bid goodbye.
   NiniKim ∙ 09:59 

  KKSKAKSKSKS U NASTY MFS
He nervously smiled at the camera, completely decided that he’d delete every trace of this secret live. He didn’t notice the gentle footsteps coming out of the room.“Forget this live happened and don’t mention anything on the comments or I’m dead.” he told everyone, “Okay, guys? See—”“Babe? what are you do—” Baekhyun came out from the room with nothing but an oversized shirt, hair still sticking out to every direction. He stilled from rubbing his eyes upon seeing his boyfriend holding his camera in his hand.“—you next time…?”“Park Chanyeol!”'
User: Summarize the chapter based on the content provided, ensuring to follow the set format and emphasize key aspects within the specified length.
User: Summarize the chapter based on the content provided, ensuring to follow the set format and emphasize key aspects within the specified length.
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