Chapter Text
“Jisung, what the fuck are you doing asleep.” Mark said as he stood above Jisung’s sleeping body, poking his younger brothers shoulder to wake him up. It was a Monday, the first day of school, and Mark intended on getting payback. On the first day of summer, Jisung had thought it would be fun to trick Mark into thinking he was late to school, and Mark, on this fine September morning at 5 am, was fully planning on getting payback.
“What do you mean?” Jisung groaned as he stretched, rubbing his eyes and looking towards the window to check if the sun was even up. Mark had closed all the blinds beforehand and had set Jisung’s alarm clock forward four hours to make it look like they were late to school.
“Shit!” Jisung cursed as he jumped up and pushed the covers off his body. Mark had to cover his mouth to hide his smile as he snuck out of the bedroom. Jisung came barrelling out a couple minutes later, running downstairs and out the door, not even bothering to say goodbye to his brothers or grab some food.
“What is Jisung doing? It’s 5 am?” Yuta asked from where he was sat on the living room chair, computer on his lap and a cup of coffee in his free hand.
“I’m getting revenge.” Mark said as he sat down on the couch, “What are you doing here?” Though Yuta was his brother, the older had moved out two years ago and was living with Doyoung and Sicheng on the street over. It wasn't unusual for Yuta to come over, but it was way too early in the morning for both of them.
“We’re actually moving out,” Yuta said shrugging when he saw Mark’s shocked expression, “Yeah, Doyoung’s parents found out that he was slumming it with us and gave him their apartment at harbour point.” It was a pretty well-known fact that Doyoung was rich. Mark’s family was pretty well off as well and it was easy to tell since Mark drove a Corvette and they had a boat, but next to Doyoung’s family it was nothing. Doyoung’s father dominated the stock market and had villas in Jeju and penthouse apartments everywhere to sell to tenants.
“So you have to move out?” Mark asked his eyes wide, What if he moves back in? Please no, it’s already too crowded here!!
“Actually, the apartment as a bunch of rooms, so me and Sicheng get to move in with him.” Yuta said with a grin on his face, “And I'm here because they are in the process of moving the furniture and there's no internet, so I’m stealing your wifi.”
“It’s so early though?” Mark said, still very confused as to why Yuta was up at 5 am. “What are you doing awake? Don't you usually sleep in?”
“Bold of you to assume I slept last night,” Yuta responded, and Mark finally noticed the dark bags under his eyes.
“What the fuck Yuta, why didn't you sleep?” Mark asked, his eyebrows knotting in concern.
“Language!” Taeyong screamed from downstairs. Its like he had a radar for teens cursing.
“I had to finish summer work and my applications and shit since I decided to not go aboard for the school year last minute.” Yuta sighed as he closed the laptop and put it on the coffee table, “But now I’m set to start at NeoTech University today.”
“mARK I’M GONNA BEAT YOUR ASS!!” Jisung screamed as he ran back into the room, jumping over the back of the couch and tackling Mark to the ground. The older grunted in pain, looking to Yuta for help, but his brother simply took a sip from his coffee.
Revenge tasted like the wooden floor and blood since Jisung had underestimated his strength or velocity when he launched himself at Mark and he ended up hitting the floor much harder than expected. Taeyong came running downstairs when he heard the crash and the very unmanly scream of pain that left Mark’s lips, only to find Jisung pinning Mark to the floor, his hands on his head, holding him so that he couldn't move. He gasped and looked to Yuta, thinking that as the older brother, he would try and stop the whole thing from happening or at least help Mark, but he just shrugged and took another sip of his coffee.
“What the hell, Jisung?” Taeyong almost screamed as he pried Jisung off of Mark, who despite being set free, was still laying on the floor.
“He woke me up way too early!” Jisung snitched, pointing at the lump on the floor that was Mark.
“Didn't you do that to him this summer?” Taeyong accused as he crossed his arms over his chest and cocked his hip to one side.
“But-” Jisung tried to protest but Taeyong cut him off.
“Now you two are even so stop being so loud and get ready for school or something.” Taeyong dismissed.
“But school isn't for another three hours,” Jisung whined as he followed Taeyong’s orders and walked himself upstairs.
“You okay?” Taeyong crouched down to help Mark sit up. He winced when he saw cut on Mark’s lip and the red mark on his jaw. That was definitely going to bruise.
“Define okay,” Mark mumbled as Yuta left the room, and came back with a bag of frozen peas. He thankfully took the bag and put it up to his jaw, sucking in a breath as the cold hit his now forming bruise.
“Both of you are so stupid.” Taeyong scolded as he pushed himself to his feet and put out his hand out for Mark to grab.
“Shut up, you did that to me every year when we were in high school.” Yuta glared as he sat down on the couch.
“Remind me why you didn't go to China? Is it too late for you to go?” Taeyong deadpanned, looking over to Yuta with a matching glare.
“Yup,” Yuta popped the p, “As of today, I’m enrolled in the Cello program at your school.”
“Out of all the school’s in the area you had to choose mine.” Taeyong sighed as he flopped onto the couch.
“Yeah, on this topic, I kinda need a ride to the campus,” Yuta said with a cheeky grin as Taeyong groaned and rolled his eyes.
“First Jaehyun, then Johnny and now you?” Taeyong muttered as he pushed himself up to a standing, “I’m gonna go take a nap. I need more sleep to be able to handle the three of you.” Taeyong said as he walked back up the stairs to get some more sleep before he had to deal with the chaos that was Johnny and Jaehyun.
ùwú: I’m disowning my family
Johnny Johnny: Oh no who angered the baby
OWO: yes papa
Johnny Johnny: Are you gonna say that everytime i text?
OWO: no papa
Johnny Johnny: Dear god
10/10: Is that a kink?
TY: shut up there are innocent children present
10/10: they are all teens
Jamjamjeno: how are they innocent, markhyuck fucked two nights ago
OWO: markhyuck??
Markle: pls dont explain it jeno ill cry
Jamjamjeno: these children are far from innocent
TY: they are two
ùwú: I’m sixteen
TY: did I stutter?
Johnny Johnny: I don't know, did you?
10/10: how are we supposed to know
10/10: Someones touché
TY: That is still not how you use that
10/10: help!! I’m being repressed!!1!!
TY: dumbass
10/10: this is homophobia
OWO: laNGuAGe1!1!!11!
Doyoung: fuck all of you why do you insist on texting so early in the fucking morning
TY: language
Doyoung: literally fuck you, fuck you and your first born and your dog and your stupid fucking mullet
TY: this is a lot of aggression
Jeff: personally i’m a fan of the mullet
Doyoung: fuck you. Fuck all of you
Jamjamjeno: wow
Doyoung: ah Jeno my sweet sunshine child, how are you?
Mark laughed to himself at the text as Yuta put the group chat on do not disturb and got up to get changed for school. He had plenty of time until school started at 8:30 so he went upstairs and got into his uniform and brushed his teeth before grabbing his backpack and walking over to Donghyuck’s house. He knew the younger would be upset to be woken up so early in the morning, but Mark was lonely and needed his boyfriend, so he jumped onto the generator and pushed himself onto Donghyuck’s balcony, just as he always did. The door as unlocked, as per usual and Mark quietly walked in, dropping his bag by the bedside table before quite literally jumping onto his boyfriend.
The boy groaned underneath him as Mark snickered and smothered Donghyuck’s face in kisses until the boy had to push him off. Donghyuck’s glare was cold and angry as he sat up and pouted at Mark, who giggled in response. Hyuck looked so cute mornings, with his hair sticking up everywhere and his way too big shirt (Which was actually Mark’s) hanging of this shoulder exposing his collarbones, which were nothing short of marked up. There were hickeys all up and down his neck and Mark knew that Donghyuck would throw a fit once he noticed, so he didn't mention it. Donghyuck was already upset, he didn't want to make it worse.
“How long are you going to mad at me for?” Mark asked with a lopsided grin on his face.
“Hmmm,” Donghyuck thought as he flopped back under the covers, poking his head out to finish his sentence, “Roughly five minutes.”
Mark rolled his eyes as Donghyuck disappeared completely under the sheets. Mark’s boyfriend was childish, impossibly so, but the older wouldn't have it any other way. He knew that Donghyuck would be angry to be awake in the morning but as cheesy as it sounds, Mark just couldn't wait to be with him. He would rather wait five minutes for Donghyuck to stop being upset, than wait until the boy woke up (since that would take way too long).
He looked around Donghyuck's room, the navy blue walls and carpet that he knew all too well. The mirror across the room and the dark wooden desk with the fish tank. Donghyuck loved his pet fish, especially his angelfish that they had gotten together that one summer day not too long ago. It felt like just yesterday they were driving through the city with top-down, kissing at every stop light and screaming along to whatever was blasting on the radio.
Mark sighed and crawled back over to Donghyuck, shimmying under the covers, and asking, “I know you're mad, but is this okay?” Mark said as he wrapped his arms around Donghyuck’s waist. The younger didn't protest, he just silently nodded his head, not even bothering to turn around and face Mark. Mark smiled into the back of Donghyuck’s neck before pressing feather light kisses to the place where his neck met his shoulder. It was sweet how Donghyuck was still humming in appreciation even when he was supposed to be mad at him.
“You’re impossible.” Donghyuck pouted as he turned to face Mark.
“I thought you were mad at me?” Mark said with a challenging smirk, though his eyes were soft with adoration.
“I was mad, but you make it hard.” Donghyuck glared, as Mark snorted and wrapped a hand loosely around Hyuck’s waist.
“Sorry for waking you up.” Mark apologised, making Donghyuck’s hard expression soften.
“You’re forgiven.” Donghyuck tried to hide the way he broke out into a smile, but it happened anyway. Mark brought his hand up and tucked a hair behind Donghyuck’s ear, melting at the way the boy’s eyes softened at the action.
“Why aren't you kissing me right now?” Donghyuck mumbled when the time spent just looking at each other went on for too long, “I’m waitingggg.” He dragged out the last syllable, before puckering his lips, begging for kisses. And who was Mark to withhold kisses?
He breathed out a laugh before scooching forwards and capturing Donghyuck’s lips in his with practised ease. Kissing Donghyuck was easy, it was familiar. He had spent the summer getting to know Donghyuck’s lips, and what made the boy whine and sigh. He knew that in the mornings, Donghyuck was lazy and his kisses were sloppy, but he didn't mind. Instead, he let Donghyuck lead the kiss, perfectly molding his lips to Hyuck’s sweet cherry lips.
Their lips locked and Donghyuck slid his hand up Mark’s chest, coming up to rest on his shoulder. Mark smiled against Donghyuck’s lips before letting the younger deepen the kiss as he thread his hands through Mark’s blonde hair. Mark really thought it was just going to be a sweet morning kiss, but Donghyuck obviously had other plans as he climbed into Mark’s lap and tighten his grip on Mark’s hair- not that Mark was complaining. Mark’s hands flew to Donghyuck’s waist as he did his best to sit up again though it was a bit difficult with Hyuck on his lap.
“How much time do we have before school?” Donghyuck asked, his breath fanning against Mark’s face. The older cracked one eye open, catching a quick glimpse at the clock before answering,
“One hour.”
“That’s enough time.” Donghyuck mumbled against Mark’s lips as his finger’s made quick work of unbuttoning Mark’s uniform shirt.
“Mum! Donghyuck and Mark are making out again!” Chenle screeched, sounding thoroughly unimpressed from where he stood in the doorway.
“You devil child.” Donghyuck sat up and glared at his brother, the child sticking his tongue out as the sound of his mother running up the stairs came up from behind. Hyuck’s eyes widened and he rolled off of Mark, before (quite literally) kicking his boyfriend off the bed onto the ground. Mark groaned when he came into contact with the carpeted ground, sitting up to glare at Donghyuck because of instead of his mother standing in the doorway ready to scold them, there was Yukhei, Donghyuck’s other brother.
“Mark! When did you get here?” Yukhei grinned as he leaned against the door frame, “Do you think you can drive me to school? My car broke down,”
“Yeah sure fine.” Mark sighed as he untangled himself from the mess of blankets on the floor.
“Okay cool, you two can go back to what you were doing before.” Yukhei winked before closing the door.
“Let's hurry up and get ready so we don't have to drive him.” Donghyuck quickly threw the covers off his body, running over to his dresser.
“You read my mind.” Mark grinned as he walked over to the mirror and buttoned his shirt back up. Donghyuck grabbed his uniform and ran to the bathroom, returning with his clothes on and his face angry.
“You vampire!” Donghyuck yelled as he picked up a pillow and chucked it at Mark, “How am I supposed to go to school with these!” Donghyuck said as he pointed angrily at his neck, which was littered with hickeys.
“It’s not that bad.” Mark shrugged as he fixed his hair in the mirror.
“Are you kidding? Everyone is gonna see them!” Donghyuck pouted as he stormed over to mark, forcing the older to look at him.
“Well, how else is everyone so supposed to know you’re mine?” Mark tore his eyes away from his reflection to make eye contact with Donghyuck who was still upset.
“That was hot, but you're not forgiven.” Donghyuck glared as he walked over to the balcony door. “I mean most people will make an Instagram post announcing their relationship, but not my boyfriend of course, of course, he wants to turn my neck purple to show that we’re dating.” Donghyuck rambled to himself as picked up his backpack and slung it over his shoulder, before walking onto his balcony, Mark following.
“I know you secretly love it.” Mark grinned, as he grabbed Donghyuck’s wrist and spun him around so that they were inches apart again. He didn't hesitate to lean in and lock their lips. Donghyuck took one step back, two steps back and then he was pressed against the fence of the balcony, his back bending back as Mark continued to kiss him.
He only stopped when Donghyuck put his hands on Mark’s chest and pushed the younger away, “Come on let's go so we don't have to wait for Yukhei.”
“Okay okay,” Mark gave in and stepped away, letting Donghyuck climb down the balcony first. Living next to Donghyuck was a blessing, it meant that whenever he was lonely or bored he could hop onto the radiator and pull his body onto Donghyuck’s balcony and whenever Donghyuck needed kisses and attention he could just climb into Mark window and plop down onto his bed (since his bed was pushed right up against the window). It also meant that running across the street and getting into Mark’s Corvette was quick and easy and they got to see the look of betrayal on Yukhei’s face as they pulled down the street of the cul de sac.
Bieber: Shove a cactus up your anus, buddy
Donghyuck laughed as he slouched into the seat, reaching into the cup holder where Mark kept his cheez-its. Donghyuck decided long ago that car needed a cheez-it cup holder.
Tail: Who are you threatening? Do i even want to know?
Injun: yeah who pissed in your cheerios
Bieber: Mark was gonna drive me to school and he left without me
OWO: W H A T
OWO: I hope you choke, hyuck
Injun: honestly with all the action he's been getting recently, I don't think choking is out of the question
ùwú: bad
OWO: b a d
Johnny johnny: b a d
OWO: yes papa
Johnny johnny: ffs
Donghyuck rolled his eyes and put his phone under his thigh as he rolled the car window down. The signs are summer were starting to leave, the warm morning sun replaced with cool breezes, and the bright green leaves were orange and yellow. He watched the other kids walk to school, thankful for the fact Mark had his own car, so they didn't have to walk with their heavy backpacks to the school.
It wasn't like it was a long walk, it was only ten minutes but those mere ten minutes were hell during the winter. God, Donghyuck hated the winter. He hated the cold and the wet snow that made the floors slippery. He hated the thick winter coats that make you sweat even though its freezing, and he hated school.
But Mark loved the winter, he loved how Donghyuck’s cheeks would go red in the cold, and how he would complain and pout when they were outside for too long. He loved when the leaves would fall and crunch beneath his feet and he loved it when soft snowflakes would slowly float down to earth. School stressed him out, and the added pressure of swim team didn't help, but he liked learning new things and getting to swim early in the morning.
“Dear god,” Donghyuck mumbled as Mark pulled into the senior parking lot of the school, “I really don't wanna be here.”
“You’re gonna need those prayers, this is gonna be a rough year.” Mark said as he parked the car and pulled his keys out of the ignition.
“Sometimes I forget you’re a church boy.” Donghyuck grinned and leaned against the car door window.
“Right hand to God,” Mark snorted as he took his seat belt off, “Come on, let's go.”
“Why don't we stay in the car and make out so much we steam the windows up.” Donghyuck quirked an eyebrow, sighing when Mark’s shoulders sunk.
“Come on, Hyuck, we can hotbox the car another time.” Mark reached over and put his hand on Donghyuck’s thigh, the younger’s eyebrows raising at his statement.
“Is that a promise?” Donghyuck smiled as Mark massaged his thigh.
“Sure, but let's go for now.” Mark’s had slid a bit higher before squeezing his upper thigh. He leaned over and pressed a kiss to Donghyuck’s pouting lips before lightly hitting his thigh and getting out of the car. He got his backpack out of the back and walked around to open the passenger door. Donghyuck looked up at Mark, his eyes shining with disdain as he got out and swung his backpack onto his shoulders.
“I hate everyone here, I hate this school,” Donghyuck mumbled as they walked from the parking lot to the main entrance. As they joined the stream of students walking to school, no one gave them so much of a second glance, too caught up in their own stress to look at their surroundings.
“How long do you think it’ll take for people to figure out that we’re dating?” Mark asked as they neared the staircase.
“Pretty long, I mean we acted like a couple before we officially became a thing.” Donghyuck said as he grinned and looked over at Mark, his features dancing with mischief, “What if we don't tell anyone and see how long until they figure it out?”
“It won't be long, have you seen your neck?” Renjun said as he came up behind them and put his arm around Donghyuck’s shoulders.
“Where’s Jeno and Jaemin?” Mark ignored Renjun’s comment in favour asking a question.
“Bold of you to assume I came with them.” Renjun raised an eyebrow, before sighing, “I did. Jaemin started freaking out because he's starting a new school and stuff and Jeno was comforting him. I left once they started making out.” Renjun gestured behind his shoulder to where the couple was.
“Oh yeah, I forgot that it's his first day.” Mark nodded in understanding as they walked up the stairs, “What is he studying?”
You see, their school, Ncity performing arts was a really cool high school. As the name suggests, it was a performing arts school, so the students got to chose one or more things to focus on during their time enrolled. Mark was studying rapping and music composition, whereas Donghyuck was studying vocal technique and general singing. Renjun was in the music theory program, and Jeno was the only one in their friend group who decided to take up art- more specifically oil painting. Chenle was studying the trumpet (very befitting of his loud personality) and Jisung was in the dance program.
Although they were all in different programs, they still took the core subjects together as a grade, so they still had a lot of their classes together. However since Mark was in the grade above, they only had one class together, but thankfully they had plenty of free periods in common.
“I think he's studying the violin?” Renjun explained, pausing to think for a second.
“Wait up guys!” Jeno’s voice called from behind as he ran up, dragging Jaemin with him.
“You play the violin?!” Donghyuck asked Jaemin when he joined them.
“Yeah,” Jaemin sighed, holding up his expensive looking violin case up.
“I didn't know that you didn't play it over the summer.” Donghyuck nodded in understanding as they entered the building.
“I was getting a new violin made and shipped from France, so I didn't have the chance.” Jaemin explained in monotone, “This school is nice.”
“With the amount of money that we spend to go here, I’d hope so.” Renjun scoffed as he stepped in front of them.
“Love to stay and chat but I have student council things to do.” Renjun grinned as he saluted them, before running down the hallway.
“I forgot he was the class president.” Jeno blinked a couple times.
“Why do they trust him, he's the devil incarnate?” Jaemin joked as he fisted the straps on his backpack.
“That’s where you’re wrong, Chenle is the devil incarnate.” Donghyuck laughed to himself as they walked down the hallway. And then, as if to prove his point, Chenle came running up behind them, trumpet in hand and against his lips as he took in a deep breath before blowing the horn.
“I hate you,” Donghyuck said once Jaemin had finished screaming.
“Speak of the devil and he shall appear,” Mark mumbled as he looked Chenle up and down, his eyes slightly angry.
“I’m sorry, I tried to stop him.” Jisung ran up behind them, obviously out of breath.
“I cannot be stopped, I am my own entity. You can never get rid of me.” Chenle boasted as he took apart his trumpet and put it back in his case.
“Believe me, I’ve tried,” Donghyuck said under his breath as they reached their lockers. Mark turned around to lean against the lockers and maybe sneak a few kisses before school started, but as he turned, Chenle caught sight of the deep bruise on his jaw.
“What happened to your jaw?” Chenle asked, eyeing the bruise curiously.
“Jisung.” Mark glared as Jisung held his hands up in surrender.
“It was an accident!” Jisung defended before turning to Donghyuck and changing the topic, “What happened to your neck?” He gestured towards the bruises that littered the expanse of Donghyuck’s neck.
“Mark.” Donghyuck glared as he shut his locker.
***
Yuta was well known around the school campus.
He only attended Neo Tech University for half a semester before transferring to their partner college in China, in hopes of mastering Chinese classical music. Even though he was only there for a short while, he skyrocketed in popularity. People would watch him practice, and they would whisper about his love life behind his back. Yuta’s love life was actually quite the hot topic. Since Sicheng was also popular (he was coined the Chinese prince of their campus) and his cold personality towards affection didn't help his already mysterious image, people were surprised that Yuta had broken through.
When Yuta, Johnny, Jaehyun and Taeyong walked onto the campus together, people stared, whispering about how the “prodigal son had returned.” He heard people asking if Yuta had finally gotten sick of China and had come back to claim his Sicheng and his position as the most popular Cello member, and he heard people asking if Sicheng even knew if he was here.
“I forget people actually like you here.” Johnny snorted as he eyed the girls staring and not-so-discreetly pointing. Yuta rolled his eyes and chose to ignore the comment. He was just excited to finally be in a country where he understood, more or less, what people were saying. China was fun, and he learned so much, but he was happy to be back in Korea, back with his friends, and more importantly with Sicheng.
They likely wouldn't see each other on the first day, since Sicheng was enrolled in traditional dance, which was on the other side of the campus, but he had promised they would meet each other outside the arts building.
“Oh! Yuta!” A voice called, snapping Yuta out of his daze to see Doyoung sitting on one of the benches reading a book.
“What are you doing here so early?” Yuta grinned as he walked over and stood over Doyoung.
“I had to drop Jungwoo off at the skating rink early in the morning because no one else was awake,” Doyoung explained as he bookmarked his spot in the book, before closing it entirely.
“Skating rink?” Johnny asked, his expression obviously taken aback, “He skates?”
“Yeah, if you spent any time with him at all you would know that.” Jaehyun scoffed, rolling his eyes as he sat into his hip.
“I actually didn't know that either.” Taeyong piped up, “I actually don't know that much about Jungwoo now that I think about it.”
“Funny story actually, Jungwoo figure skated until his first year in college when he decided he wanted to be a vet and he had the grades for it so he got into the program. And then when he found out he had to dissect animals he actually fainted. Jaemin has it on video.” Doyoung stifled a laugh towards the end, “So now he's majoring in Ballet and skating competitively. I guess he took a break over the summer to get used to the new town? I mean he did move halfway across Korea.”
“Hmm, Maybe I should start listening to him when he speaks.” Johnny shrugged, “Not my fault he talks in size two font.”
“I heard size two font, are we talking about Jungwoo?” Ten asked as he walked up to the group with a grin as he slid under Johnny’s arm, “He’s in my program this year, we promised to get coffee together tomorrow morning when he finishes his skating stuff.”
“You should bring Johnny, I’m pretty sure he doesn't even know Jungwoo’s last name.” Yuta snorted as he elbowed Johnny in the side, the latter sputtered indigenously as he tried to defend himself.
“I know his last name! It’s… It’s- okay I don't but still!” Johnny tried to protest but ultimately failed.
“Hey, guys!” A chipper voice came from behind as Kun walked up, two cups of coffee in hand. Both Johnny and Jaehyun caught the way Doyoung’s eyes softened as he watched Kun slide into the seat next to him, handing him a warm cup of coffee.
Kun and Doyoung had a weird dynamic. They weren't a couple, but they were a couple. They were dating but they weren't official. After hooking up with Doyoung in the backroom of Target, Kun joined their friend group in the beginning of the summer, around the same time as Jaemin and Jungwoo. Kun was a sweet boy, full of smiles and love to give to his friends. He and Doyoung got along well, even though their personalities clashed sometimes. They were good together, as friends with benefits or whatever the hell they were.
“Morning! I brought you coffee!” Kun grinned as Doyoung gratefully took the cup.
“Why don't you bring me coffee?” Johnny sighed and looked down at his boyfriend.
“Because you have your own money and I have to pay rent.” Ten responded without missing a beat
“I’m so happy we all go to the same school! And the high school is just down the road so we all get to stay together! Isn't that so nice?” Kun said with a wide grin as he crossed his legs.
“If I have to drive with them again, then no.” Taeyong glared at Yuta and Johnny, “They would only play the baby shark remix on repeat. I actually contemplated driving us off a bridge.”
“Baaaabyyy shark du du du du du.” Johnny and Jaehyun started to sing in unison, dancing with their hands as Taeyong stared out at the road resolutely.
“If ran into the road and got hit by a car, would it kill me?” Taeyong asked in monotone.
“No, but you might get tuition money out of it.” Doyoung snorted as Taeyong sighed yet again.
“Grannnnnddddmmmma shark du du du du du.” Johnny and Jaehyun continued.
“Oh, speaking of grandma’s, where’s Taeil? I haven't seen him yet.” Yuta asked as Johnny and Jaehyun finally stopped singing.
“He’s working his first year as a student teacher,” Johnny explained as Yuta nodded in understanding.
“He’s actually working at the high school. He made sure the babies didn't find out, so we should be getting panicked texts any second now.” Jaehyun smirked as he pulled his phone out
OWO: what's this?
“I guess they figured it out.”
***
“Is that who I think it is?” Chenle gasped, almost dropping his trumpet case as he caught a glimpse of what appeared to be Taeil, talking to their headmaster.
“Oh my god,” Donghyuck groaned, leaning back against his locker and letting his head slam against the cold metal, “As if this year couldn't get worse.”
“Hello guys!” Taeil smiled brightly as he politely said goodbye to the headmaster before running over to his friends.
“What the fuck are you doing here?” Jeno snapped, blinking in confusion at Taeil.
“Language.” Jisung said almost on instinct, earning a glare from Jeno.
“I’m working as a student teacher at your school this year! I would’ve told you earlier but I wanted it to be a surprise.” He said, smile still present on his face.
“Worst surprise ever,” Chenle said with wide eyes, “Take it back take it back I don't want it!”
“Sucks to suck, I’m here for the whole year, get used to seeing this face.” Taeil grinned cheekily, giving the boys a wink before making a dramatic exit, just as the first bell rang, signalling that class would start soon.
“Shit, class is starting,” Mark cursed as he finished stuffing the last of his supplies into his locker, “What do you guys have?”
“I have a free block,” Donghyuck said, turning his head to look at Mark expectantly.
“I have a private lesson with Chanyeol, but we have technical voice together later.” Mark tried to console Donghyuck, the younger pouting at the mere idea of not having Mark always by his side. It was horribly cheesy and gross but Donghyuck had grown used to spending every waking second with Mark, waking up next to him and eating with him and spending the nights with him, but now that was being taken away.
“No one cares, but I have math first period with Renjun.” Jeno sighed, pulling out his schedule to make sure he was right.
“I have biology with Jisung!” Chenle grinned as he hooked arms with Jisung and half-dragged the younger to their classroom.
“I have a free first block.” Jaemin piped up, pointing at his schedule with a half smile on his face. Donghyuck lit up and grabbed his hand.
“Great! Let's go find an empty classroom before all the other snakes claim them!” Donghyuck said with a mischievous grin on his face. He gave Mark a kiss on the cheek before pulling Jaemin down the hallways in search of an empty classroom. It took a while, but they eventually found an empty music room, Donghyuck dropping his bag and taking a seat on the piano bench. Jaemin looked lost for a second and Donghyuck gestured for him to sit wherever he wanted.
“How’re you are liking everything so far?” Donghyuck asked with a small smile as he put one foot on the piano bench.
“It’s a lot to take in,” Jaemin sighed his shoulders slumping with stress as he gripped his schedule tight in his hands, “I have no idea how this schedule works.”
“What do you mean? Didn't Jeno explain it to you yesterday?” Donghyuck furrowed his eyebrows in confusion, taking a peek at the schedule in his hands.
“No…” Jaemin said awkwardly, looking anywhere but Donghyuck.
“That's weird, he told me he was going to tell you how everything worked.” Donghyuck shrugged as he gently took the schedule out of his hands.
“Yep. he didn't.” Jaemin said with a hint of frustration in his voice.
Donghyuck snorted, “What's the matter? Trouble in paradise?”
Jaemin groaned, “Yeah actually,” He frowned.
“Oh wait really? What's wrong?” Donghyuck blinked a couple times before sitting up straight and taking on what Mark liked to call his ‘therapist mode’.
“I don't know we just keep fighting about stupid things and he keeps accidentally forgetting about me and leaving me on read.” Jaemin sighed, his shoulders sagged further as he ran a hand through his hair, “It might be childish to get upset about, but he just keeps forgetting our plans and not answering my texts and its just so frustrating.”
“Wow, I had no idea you guys were having issues.” Donghyuck said, his eyes going soft as he gave Jaemin a comforting smile, “You should try and talk to him about it. He probably doesn't even know he's doing it.”
Jaemin sighed yet again, “You’re probably right, I’ll talk to him.”
“Good,” Donghyuck grinned, “Let me know how it goes.”
Jaemin nodded and a silence passed over them.
“In the meantime, you can play the violin for me since I’ve never had the privilege of hearing you play.” Donghyuck said with a glint in his eyes, as a smile finally rose to Jaemin’s face.
“Fine, fine but only if I get to hear you sing.”
“Deal.”
***
“Okay, I wasn't expecting you to be that good.” Donghyuck reeled after Jaemin put down his bow, a shy smile on his face.
“Thanks. I’m a bit rusty though, I haven't played in ages.” Jaemin said as he gingerly put his violin back in its case.
“Ew, stop trying to be humble,” Donghyuck stuck out his tongue in disgust as Jaemin scoffed.
“Your turn. Sing for me.” Jaemin challenged, Donghyuck raising an eyebrow as he rest his fingers on the keys of the piano.
“Let me show you something cool about music school,” Donghyuck said with a mischief laced in his smile as he started playing a familiar tune.
“We’re soaring,” Donghyuck sang out, his honey-like voice echoing out through the room and dancing into the hallways.
The door burst open, Chenle barrelling into the room with his mouth open, “FLYING!!”
Donghyuck smirked before continuing, “There's not a star in heaven that we can't reach.” Chenle harmonised with Donghyuck perfectly, Jaemin staring at the pair in confusion.
“I couldn't stop him.” Jisung panted out as he stood in the doorway, exhausted from chasing Chenle down.
“It’s okay no one can stop him,” Donghyuck sighed as he took his hands off the piano, “He’s a force of nature.”
“Is that a compliment?” Chenle grinned as he leaned against the piano.
“Why would I compliment you?” Donghyuck grinned back before glaring at his little brother.
“Meanie.” Chenle huffed as he stuck his tongue, Donghyuck returning the favour.
“Oh while we are here, I don't know if you saw the texts, but Yukhei told us to make sure we all go.” Jisung said as he pulled his phone out, showing off the texts.
“Wait you guys have a group chat?” Jaemin said in genuine confusion, hurt settling deep in his stomach.
“Oh, Jen didn't add you?” Chenle blinked in confusion as he pulled his phone out, missing the way Jaemin’s eyes fell, “Whatever I’ll add you right now.”
OWO has added Najaems to the chat “God has left us”
Bieber: So i'm sitting there, one bitch on my lap the other making me a sandwich
Bieber: oh shit i forgot
Bieber has added Junguwu to the chat “God has left us”
Junguwu: what
Tail: wait yukhei continue
Tail: what did the bitch on your lap do?? What happened to the one making you a sandwich
Junguwu: w h a t
Bieber: hahaha what?? Oh gotta go!! A bird just flew in through the window!!
Jamjamjeno: I'm in his class and i can confirm there's no bird hes lying
Bieber: are you calling me a liar???
Jamjamjeno: well im not callin you a truther
Injunnie: lol did mark sleep last night?? He looks so dead inside???
Johnny Johnny: bold of you to assume he sleeps
OWO: yes papa
Johnny Johnny: for fucks sake
Jamjamjeno: I dont think he slept
Ty: yeah hyuck slept over
Hyuck Lee: stop implying things!!
Injunnie: your neck implies enough!!!
Hyuck Lee: Hi im starting a kickstarter to put renjun down
Kunkun: signed
10/10: i think thats his first time texting in this chat
Injunnie: wow first time texting in the chat and its SLANDER
Doyoung: signed
Injunnie: what did I do to you???
Jamjamjeno: wait is mark asleep???
Hyuck Lee: let him rest
Injunnie: nah hes jsut slouching
Jamjamjeno: hes always slouchin
Injunnie: yeah he lost his bones in the skeleton war
***
Markle: yOU DID NOT!!
Najaems: what just happened???
Hyuck Lee: HFKSLJGHDJFGH YUKHEI WHAT THE HELL
Junguwu: what?
Ty: oh no yukhei what did you do
Injunnie: yOU WILL NOT BELIEVE WHAT JUST HAPPENED
Yutado: yEAH BECAUSE YOU WONT TELL US!!
Injunnie: you know what, just for that I wont tell you
Najaems: i live for drama so i’ll tell you
Najaems: so we are having the like end of day meeting for the first day of school and they are like okay any student announcements?
Najaems: and Yukhei stands up and goes to the mic and fucking says
Ty: language
10/10: shut up and let the prophet speak
Najaems: ????
10/10: CONTINUE
Najaems: yeah he goes up to the mic and fucking says
Najaems: just wanted to let everyone know that im dating a college boy
Yutado: hE DIDNT
10/10: hsgdjklJGHSDKGJ WHAT THE FUCK YUKHEI
Junguwu: :O
ùwú: someone from the audience shouted “odd flex but okay”
Bieber: i had to let the people know!!
Hyuck Lee: know what? That youre the biggest idiot?? Who the fuck announces that??
Tail: i literally heard him scoff through the text
OWO: me too
Injunnie: yeah because you’re sitting right next to him and he scoffed outloud
Bieber: i wanted everyone to know that i was dating the hottest college boy ever
Junguwu: :D
Junguwu: meet me at the skating rink in twenty minutes
Bieber: of course!!
10/10: hes getting it!!!
Hyuck Lee: how is he getting it, he doesnt even have a car
***
Yukhei hated the cold.
Like, he despised all cold things. He just didn't understand how on earth people would prefer the cold harsh stressful winters to the nice carefree and hot summers. That's why when he found that Jungwoo was a figure skater, he was beyond confused.
“So what’s your major?” Yukhei asked one night in July while they were under the covers, exhausted from the night's activities. Jungwoo rolled onto his side staring up at Yukhei with those wide eyes that he was so weak for.
“Ballet.” Jungwoo said with a smile on his face as Yukhei’s expression twisted into one of confusion.
“What? Really?” Yukhei asked.
“Yeah,” Jungwoo closed his eyes and nodded, “Because of the whole figure skating thing.”
“What figure skating thing?” Yukhei blinked, racking his brain for anything Jungwoo had said about figure skating in the past.
“Oh wait I never told you did I?” Jungwoo’s eyes widened in realisation before melting into crescents, “Yeah I don't think I had the chance since the past month I was too busy trying to get you to date me.” Jungwoo breathed out a laugh as Yukhei cackled.
“But yeah, I’m a figure skater. I skate and stuff.” Jungwoo smiled softly.
“Ew, I hate the cold,” Yukhei grimaced.
“Me too.” Jungwoo snorted, “But I like skating.”
He still didn't understand why Jungwoo would put himself through the coldness of the ice skating rink if he hated the temperature. The frigid air of the skating rink, hit Yukhei right as he opened the doors, making him immediately regret his decision to forgo a jacket, but he walked into the building regardless, oh the things love makes you do. The rink was empty, and quiet save for the sound of a singular pair of skates scraping against the ice.
Yukhei smiled to himself as he walked up to the barrier, resting his elbows and watching Jungwoo dance across the ice. The older hadn't noticed him yet, too wrapped up in his skating to notice him, and Yukhei didn't think it was right to distract him. He liked watching Jungwoo skate, no, he loved it. He looked so beautiful on the ice, his cheeks red from the cold and his eyebrows slightly furrowed in concentration as he focused on getting his turns right.
“Xuxi!” Jungwoo gasped once he noticed Yukhei leaning against the barrier, his face lighting up in happiness making Yukhei’s heart melt in adoration. The boy skated over, his smile ever present as he slid to a stop and immediately took Yukhei’s face into his hands.
“You came!” Jungwoo said softly as he cupped his cheeks.
“Of course I came.” Yukhei giggled as he leaned over and slotted their lips together. Jungwoo smiled into the kiss before sliding his hand down Yukhei’s neck and deepening the kiss.
“You’re too cold.” Yukhei mumbled against his lips, shivering at the feeling of Jungwoo’s frigid hands and lips against his skin as the older pressed a kiss against his cheek.
“Sorry, give me a second to get changed and then we can go, okay?” Jungwoo suggested, pressing another kiss to Yukhei’s cheek when the boy nodded. Jungwoo grinned and pulled away completely, skating to the exit before grabbing his bag and walking over to the changing rooms.
Bieber: Sicheng I need you to pick me and jungwoo up
Loselose: and why should I?
Bieber: 我会告诉你你的秘密 ( I’ll expose your secrets)
Loselose: on my way
OWO: SHSDJKGHSDFKJLGHSDJLFKGH
Injunnie: inch resting
Jamjamjeno: what are they saying?? What's interesting??
Injunnie: idk maybe if you paid attention in class you would know
Jamjamjeno: ouch
Sicheng rolled his eyes and put his phone back in his pocket, happy to not be on the receiving end of Renjun’s ruthless assault for once. That boy had a mouth, and Sicheng was just happy that he had Jeno as a scapegoat. The sun was just starting to set, the leaves were just starting to fall, fluttering down to the concrete gracefully, reminding everyone that fall was upon them. That school was truly starting again.
Sicheng couldn't say he was upset to be starting the new school year. It was the first year with where Yuta would finally be there at their school. He would be moving into Doyoung’s apartment with him, and they would get to go through the struggles of the school year together. They would be able to grow together as a couple. Sicheng was embarrassed to talk about it, but he was so excited for Yuta to be back, he was excited to share a room with him for longer than the three-month summer. He was excited for them to bicker about stupid things and kiss and makeup. He was excited to be in a relationship.
Sicheng was sat outside the music department since his own class had ended early and he thought it might be a good idea to try and surprise Yuta. Checking his watch, he shuffled his feet, crossing and uncrossing his legs impatiently. The class would be over any second, and Yuta would be walking through those doors. All of a sudden Sicheng felt anxiety wash over him, what if I look too eager? Or too desperate? Should I leave? Or should I play it off like I was just in the area? What the fuck Sicheng the music department is nowhere near the dance department he won't believe that. He didn't have time to ponder it further as students started to spill from the double doors, Sicheng fumbling to pull out his phone and look disinterested. He heard a faint gasp a couple feet away and he had to physically repress the smile that almost rose to his face.
“What are you doing here?” Yuta’s melodic voice sounded out, laced with confusion but no malice. This was especially evident when Sicheng looked up and saw the expression of pure and unadulterated happiness written all over his face. The wait was definitely worth it.
“I uh,” Sicheng started to say as he stood up, searching his mind for an excuse.
“You came to see me? That's so nice of you! Who knew you could be such a sweetheart?” Yuta grinned and Sicheng knew he couldn't lie when Yuta was smiling that bright as he wrapped his arms around the other’s waist.
“Shut up,” Sicheng rolled his eyes before leaning in and pressing a kiss to Yuta’s expectant lips.
“Softie.” Yuta whispered his eyes sparkling in the light as he gazed at Sicheng.
Only for you, he wanted to say, but he chickened out and the words died on his tongue.
Maybe another time, when he had more confidence.
Maybe another time.
***
“Come onnn Mark, let's go to sleep!” Donghyuck whined from where he was sat cross-legged on the floor, tugging at the hem of Mark’s too big sweatshirt.
“I'm almost done.” Mark responded, not taking his eyes off of his work as his foot anxiously tapped at the base of his desk chair.
“Hurry up.” Donghyuck pouted, putting his head in Mark’s lap, hoping to elicit some response from the boy.
“Mmm,” Mark hummed as he used his free hand to tangle in Donghyuck’s hair. Donghyuck knew that Mark was a hard worker, he dedicated himself to every task he took on, which was an amazing talent to have. It would take him far in life but right now it was an obstacle since the only place he wanted to take Mark to was to bed so that they could sleep.
The younger groaned and sat back up, Mark silently dropping his hand to his lap as if Donghyuck hadn't been there in the first place. Pouting, Donghyuck got up and walked over to Mark’s bed, throwing off the covers and sitting down on the mattress. He wanted to nag Mark some more, beg him to go to sleep, but he didn't want to be a bother so he kept his mouth shut and waited for Mark. Eventually, his own exhaustion started getting to him and he laid down, and shut his eyes, trying his best to fight the sleep until Mark came.
Donghyuck sighed in relief when he heard Mark shut his laptop and get out of his desk chair to shuffle over to the bed.
“Sorry, baby.” Mark apologised as he leaned over and pushed Donghyuck’s hair back so he could press a kiss to his forehead.
“Shut up and sleep with me.” Donghyuck responded, lift his arms to make grabby hands at Mark.
“Sleep with you?” Mark raised an eyebrow, “I mean if you insist.”
“Idiot you know what I meant.” Donghyuck snapped his eyes open, glaring at a now laughing Mark. Once the boy had calmed down he climbed into bed, Donghyuck immediately wrapping his arms around Mark.
“You know I probably won't be here when you wake up, right?” Mark asked softly, brushing his fingers through Donghyuck’s hair. Donghyuck knew he wouldn't be there since he had swim team starting tomorrow and they met early in the mornings more often than not. He knew, but he didn't like it. He liked waking up next to Mark, but now the swim team was gonna take that away from him.
“I know.” Donghyuck said into Mark’s chest, his voice sad as ever as Mark breathed out a laugh and pulled away so he could look at Donghyuck. His Donghyuck, his beautiful Donghyuck. Mark’s eyes softened as they always did when he looked at Donghyuck, the younger’s eyes wide and waiting with a hint of sadness. Smiling, Mark leaned in and slotted their lips together, Donghyuck sighing into the kiss as his grip on Mark tightened. Mark held him close, tangling his fingers in Donghyuck’s hair as the younger deepened the kiss.
“But I’m here right now, okay?” Mark mumbled against Donghyuck’s lips leaving the younger breathless.
“Okay.”