Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chan’s had enough. Enough of people not wanting to commit, enough of people just wanting to show (him) off, enough of people just toying with him. Yes, Chan was still young, but he wanted something serious. When he wanted something or someone, he did everything he could to get it. In a relationship, he was in body and soul, until the other person broke up. Because, yes, Chan was never the one to break up. Chan was always the one to imagine a future, the one to make grand gestures in the name of love and the one to be dropped in the end.

So, Chan’s had enough. He decided that he’d stop trying to find someone to build a life and family with, that it would either come to him if it was his fate or just he’d end up alone. Though, he wasn’t really alone.

Chan was a kindergarten teacher. He’d always loved kids and since he started school, he never found something more gratifying than teaching other people to see their eyes shine with knowledge and understanding. Kids were really the cutest, even when they threw tantrums, even when they tried their best to make as much mess as possible. Chan loved kids and his students returned the sentiment. Of the whole school, Chan was definitely the most loved teacher. So much so that his best friends Hyunjin and Jisung sometimes envied him. 

“It’s sorcery! You’re actually a wizard and you’ve bewitched them, right?” Jisung asked as a kid burst into tears when his mom tried to take him home before he could get a ‘see you tomorrow’ hug from Chan.

“You’re being ridiculous” giggled Chan as he shot an apologetic smile to the mother who had no choice but to let his son waddle his way back to him. “Aww, baby, you wanted a hug? You just had to ask” Chan cooed at the little boy who hugged him with all his might.

“I love Channie’s hugs” he croaked, rubbing his eyes with his tiny fists.

“I love Jooyeonie’s hugs too” Chan replied as he gave a tissue to the little boy and ruffled his hair before he made his way back to his mother.

“You’re the ridiculous one. Making all the kids in school fall in love with you” Hyunjin muttered as he waved at his own students with a sweet but fake smile on his face. “I’m fucking tired, I need a drink” he added in a whisper.

“Soon, only a couple minutes left,” Chan said, turning around to look inside his classroom to find that Jaemin was still inside. Frowning, Chan made his way to the little boy.

“Hey, little one. Your mom isn’t here yet?” he asked as he crouched down to be at eye level with the kid.

“I don’t know. Mama is never late. I’m scared” the little boy replied, his eyes filling up with tears as his lower lip wobbled.

“Don’t cry, baby. I’m sure your mom will be here any minute now” Chan replied, taking the kid’s hand and bringing him to wait with him in front of the classroom.

Chan had only seen Jaemin’s mother a couple times since the start of the school year a month ago. She vaguely looked like her son but she seemed cold whereas her son was a literal sunshine.

Brushing those thoughts away, Chan tried to look for the mother too, turning his head this and that way to try and spot her. But instead of finding her, his eyes caught a panicked-looking man running towards his class.

“Jaemin!” he exclaimed once he was close enough.

“Appa!” Jaemin squealed back, letting go of Chan’s hand to run straight to the man. Jaemin stumbled into the man’s arms who lifted him up to give him a full hug.

Chan took a moment to study the man’s face. A cute looking nose, round cheeks reddened by the wind, soft looking lips stretching around pearly-white teeth but more importantly, freckles . All over the man’s face. And there it was, the culprit for Jaemin’s sunshine personality and adorable features. When Jaemin was back on the ground, the man straightened up and walked to Chan, a shy smile on his face.. He was literally glowing like he was a fucking deity or something.

“Hello. Sorry I’m late. I’m Felix, Jaemin’s father, it’s a pleasure to meet you” said Felix, extending his hand.

Chan looked at his hand for a second before his body acted on autopilot, shaking his hand. Felix’s hand was warm and tiny in Chan’s grip.

“It’s okay, you’re not too late” Chan said, suddenly realising that Felix was actually the last parent to come pick up his kid. “I thought his mother was picking him up,” he added.

“She got held up so here I am!” Felix replied, cheery and, oh, dimples .

“Well, thank god, Jaemin was about to cry,” Chan said, shooting a teasing look at the kid.

“Oh my, really?” Felix cooed, turning to his son and ruffling his hair. “I thought you were a big boy!” he exclaimed in a baby voice.

“Big boys can cry when they scared, appa!” Jaemin retorted, crossing his arms in the cutest way and pouting.

“Of course they can, buddy. But appa will always be there for you, never forget!” Felix replied, successfully making the little boy stop pouting. He turned back to Chan. “Well, we gotta go now. Hope to see you again-”

“Chan. I’m Chan” Chan immediately said.

“See you again, Chan-ssi” Felix said before picking Jaemin back up and walking away.

Chan stood there for a few more moments, staring at Felix’s retreating back until Jisung’s voice brought him back to reality.

“What the hell was that?!”

“Are you still up for that drink, Hyunjin-ah?” Chan asked, turning to his colleagues, dazed.

“It’s on me tonight” Hyunjin replied, going into his classroom before coming back, jacket on and a somewhat knowing look on his face.

Finally seated at the counter in their favourite local bar and each one with a drink in their hands, Hyunjin raised his glass.

“What should we toast for?”

“Our beautiful job?” Jisung suggested.

“Nah. Let’s go for… that one person who invented beer!” Hyunjin said and they all laughed.

“To beer!” they exclaimed altogether and took big gulps of their drinks.

“So, are we going to talk about it, hyung?” Jisung asked Chan.

“What are you talking about?” Chan asked, eating a few peanuts.

“Jaemin’s father is a hottie and just your type.”

“What the fuck, Han Jisung!” Chan exclaimed. “I can’t believe you just said that.”

“I mean, he’s not wrong, hyung” Hyunjin said, shrugging as he reached for the peanuts too. “He’s already settled down, he’s got a child. So, if he’s searching for a relationship, he’s probably searching for something serious.”

“May I remind you that Jaemin’s also got a mother who’s likely Felix’s wife?”

“He didn’t have a wedding ring,” Jisung interjected.

“A lot of people don’t wear one nowadays,” Chan remarked.

“He’s got a point,” Hyunjin said.

“And!” Chan interjected, happy that Hyunjin was on his side for once, “Even if they’re not married, they might be in a relationship for all we know and even if they’re not, he’s probably straight!”

“For god’s sake, hyung! Don’t act like people can only be straight or gay. There’s a whole spectrum of sexualities and you know it” Jisung said, pointing an accusing finger at Chan.

“I know that. But his sexuality or relationship status don’t matter anyway because I’m not looking for a relationship. I’m done” Chan replied, with finality.

Looking at each other, Hyunjin and Jisung understood that it was time to drop the topic. Accepting their defeat, Hyunjin started to tell how his daughter Soyeon’s face became all pink when they were doing some painting in class the other day.

“Good morning, Channie!” Jaemin exclaimed when he arrived the next day.

Usually, Jaemin came on his own to class, unlike other kids who were accompanied by their parents. Today though, Jaemin was followed by his father.

“Hi, Jaemin! Ready for today?” he asked, ruffling the kid’s hair. The latter turned to his father.

“Have a good day, appa!” he said, kissing his father’s cheek.

“You too, baby” Felix said, returning the kiss. He watched Jaemin enter the class and make his way to his friends before turning to Chan.

“Can I have a word with you, Chan-ssi?” he asked.

“Sure. What is it?” he asked as they stepped aside to make sure they couldn’t be heard by anyone.

“Something happened yesterday with Jaemin and he was a bit… upset about it. It’s nothing bad but could you please make sure he’s alright throughout the day? I know it’s a lot to ask from you since he’s not your only student but you’re the only one I can trust so…” Felix said, his ears turning red the more he talked and Chan found that very cute.

“It’s alright. Can I ask what happened or is that too much?” Chan asked, hesitant.

“Oh, um,” Felix hesitated. “Could we talk about it when I come to fetch Jaemin? I’m gonna be late for work” he said, a nervous laugh escaping.

“Oh, right, right! Sorry! I should also make sure everyone’s here anyway” Chan said, embarrassed. “See you later, Felix-ssi.”

“See you later” Felix replied, a blinding smile on his face as he turned around and walked away.

If Chan stared at him a second too long, well, he was the only one to know about it.

Chapter Text

Taking care of a class full of five year olds was hardly restful. Of course, Chan had been a teacher for some years but some days were just harder than others. Maybe it was because it was the end of the week, most of the kids were tired, so, restless. When he saw this, he decided it was time for some cardiac coherence.

“Okay guys!” he said, clapping his hands. They all turned to him, quieting down. “Please sit down, we’re going to calm down a bit, okay?”

All the kids did as told, already knowing where it was going. Chan often did cardiac coherence with his students when they seemed a bit agitated. It worked wonders and it helped him relax as well as them.

“Okay, let’s take some deep breaths first, you remember?” He inhaled through his nose, “Block for one, two, three and exhale” he said, exhaling through his mouth. He was followed by all the children who visibly calmed a little bit. They did it a few more times until they all looked serene.

“Now, let’s stand up, we’re going to shake our arms first, gently. Let’s go” he said and started to shake his arms lightly, his students following his examples. They were so cute to his eyes, always listening so well to him. He then told them to roll their head slowly a few times then shake their legs and finally spin their ankles carefully.

“All right, let’s sit back down” he said, himself sitting down. “Do you remember where we left off yesterday?”

“Eunchae, you better not do what I think you’re going to do!” Jisung shouted towards a little girl who looked about to go up the slide from the front instead of the stairs on the back. She giggled and went around to take the stairs.

“So, you were saying?” he asked, turning back to Chan.

Playtime and lunch were the only times at school they were able to gossip a little bit and Chan didn’t waste a second telling them about Felix’s request.

“Well, I mean, Jaemin looks quite alright to me, you know? Nothing out of the ordinary, maybe a little quieter but it’s the end of the week so that’s pretty understandable” Chan explained. “Do you reckon I should ask him about it?”

“I don’t know…” Hyunjin began. “He’s your student, you’re the person that knows him best after his parents. Only you can decide what to do.”

“I’m a bit lost though,” Chan nervously said. “Chaemin, are you alright?” Chan asked, rushing to a little boy who had just fallen while he was chasing his friends. 

“It hurts Channie,” he said, his eyes full of tears as he held his injured knee close to his chest.

“Aw, sweetheart, come with me” Chan said, picking the kid up and taking him to where he was sitting with Jisung and Hyunjin. He took the first aid kit, treated the boy’s scratches and sent him off with a dinosaur plaster on his knee and a smile on his face.

“I think you can try and ask him if something’s wrong but don’t force him to talk to you” Jisung said, as he kept an eye on Eunchae who still looked suspicious. “Wait a minute” he said before walking towards said girl. After exchanging a few words, he took her by the hand and brought her to their corner.

“You’re going to stay with us for the last five minutes of playtime” Jisung told her as he made her sit down on a little chair next to them. The little girl laughed and waved to her friends who were still playing.

“I think that’s what I’ll do,” Chan said, turning his head and searching for Jaemin. The little boy was running around with his friends - apparently, they were playing cat and mouse - but his smile did look a bit less bright than usual. Chan was again striked by how alike he was to his dad. Shaking his head, he teared his gaze from the kid and made a quick look round the whole playground to make sure everyone was alright.

It was now the afternoon. After lunch, the kids were allowed to nap a little or take some quiet time to do any calm activity they wanted. Chan was sitting at the front of the class, looking over his kids.

The first half of them was sleeping, it was usually the most agitated ones who took naps, recharging their batteries so they could cause more mayhem until school was over. The other half was doing some quiet activities like drawing or colouring.

Jaemin was reading a book, more like looking at the pictures as he couldn’t quite read yet. He kept on turning the pages slowly, taking his time to look at the pictures. Chan approached him, sitting cross-legged next to him on the floor.

“Hey, Jaemin-ah” he softly spoke so as to not disturb the other children.

“Channie,” Jaemin replied, turning to look at his teacher, beaming.

“Are you alright? You seem a bit different” Chan tried, a reassuring hand on the little boy’s tiny hand.

Jaemin averted his gaze back to the book in his hand, gnawing on his bottom lip. Chan frowned a little and put a finger on the boy’s chin.

“You’ll hurt yourself, little one.”

“Sorry” Jaemin apologised, releasing his lip. “I’m sorry I’m different today. I will be happy now” he said, forcing himself to smile.

“No, honey, it’s fine. You can have down days, it’s okay. Just like you said it’s okay to cry, it’s okay to be a little sad” Chan said, smiling softly. “It’s okay too if you don’t wanna tell me. But if you have something going on inside your head, always tell someone. It can be me, a friend or your appa.”

“Appa was speaking a lot yesterday. He was using easy words but I don’t understand everything. I want to tell you but I can not.”

“That’s fine, little one. Words are hard to use sometimes.” Jaemin nodded at that and put the book down.

“Thank you Channie” the little boy whispered, a genuine smile on his face this time.

“Anytime.”

After this, they sang a few songs and the bell rang to signal the end of the day. Every student gathered their jackets and little school bags and sat back down as Chan went to open the door. He called the kids one by one as he recognised their parents and answered any question they could have about what went on during the day. He told Chaemin’s dad about his son’s fall during playtime and assured him that he had been well taken care of. The class cleared out quite fast until Jaemin was the last one left. Chan went to sit beside him.

“Do you wanna wait for your appa outside?” 

“I like it here,” Jaemin replied and Chan nodded.

After a few minutes spent in silence, someone knocked on the door. There stood Felix, looking as pretty as ever. Chan ignored the way his heart sped up and got up, taking Jaemin along with him.

“Jaemin-ah, come here” Felix said, crouching down and opening his arms. His son almost ran to him, immediately going for a hug.

“Hey” Chan said and Felix looked up towards him.

“How was the day?” Felix asked as he gathered Jaemin in his arms and stood up.

“It was fine, right Jaemin?”

“Yes. Chaemin falled when we were running but Channie gived him a dinosaur plaster!”

“Oh, that’s so nice!” Felix replied, sounding envious, making his son giggle. But when his gaze met Chan’s he looked a little worried and nervous.

“Little one, can you go sit with Hyunjinnie while I talk with your appa, please?” Chan gently asked and Jaemin nodded, waiting for Felix to put him down before running to Hyunjin.

“Was it really alright?”

“He looked a little bit sad so I tried talking to him during quiet time but he told me he didn’t know the words to tell me. I just figured I’d talk with you about it.”

“Wow, okay. So, basically, I just opened my business so when the school year started, I made a deal with Jaemin’s mother so she could pick him up until I got everything out of the way. Now that I’m on my feet, she told me that she can’t take care of him anymore” Felix explained, sounding quite annoyed - Chan ignored the fact that he found it cute. “She’s an air hostess so she travels a lot but this past month she had to take a temporary leave. She now gotta go back to work and it was difficult to tell Jaemin that he wouldn’t see her anymore now he’s got a bit accustomed to her presence.”

“I’m sorry to hear that. But that explains a lot of things,” Chan said, thinking not only of Jaemin’s behaviour but also of Felix's lack of a ring on his finger and the way he and Jaemin’s mother never came to fetch him together.

“Anyway, thank you for telling me, it must have been hard,” Chan said, his eyes unable to leave Felix’s face.

“It’s okay. I was really worried about Jaemin, I’m sorry again that I had to ask such a favour. I know I could have asked Hyunjin but since you’re his teacher…” Felix trailed off.

“Hyunjin?” Chan asked.

“Oh, yes. Hyunjin’s my best friend’s husband so we hang out quite often” Felix explained.

Chan looked towards Hyunjin who was playing with Jaemin as if it was a regular occurence. He definitely had a lot of things to talk about with his friend.

“I didn’t know. But you did great by asking me. Hyunjin can only watch over him during playtime while I do it all day long.”

“That reminds me!” Felix said, suddenly remembering something. Chan watched him reach inside his tote bag - which he hadn’t noticed - and take a little paper bag out of it. “Here, this is for you. It’s not much but I wanted to thank you” Felix handed Chan the paper bag and Chan looked inside to find a chocolate éclair.”

“Oh my gosh, you didn’t have to! It looks delicious too!” he said, touched by the gesture. It was the first time a parent gave him a present.

“I made it myself. I’m a baker by the way, my bakery opened just a few blocks from here. I’d be happy to see you visit anytime” Felix said, fluttering his lashes, pink gracing his cheeks. He was definitely flirting Chan understood.

“Appa!” Jaemin exclaimed, grasping Felix’s entire attention. “Can we go home, I’m hungry!” he whined.

“Sure, baby, let’s go,” Felix said, turning back to Chan. “See you tomorrow.”

“See you” Chan replied, feeling himself blush. 

Felix waved to Hyunjin and quickly disappeared. Chan then turned to his friend.

“You’ve got some explaining to do, Hyunjin-ah.”

Chapter Text

“Look, I was going to tell you at some point, I promise” Hyunjin began, looking a bit ashamed of himself.

“But why didn’t you tell me you knew him? He’s literally best friends with your husband” Chan asked, genuinely confused at his friend’s behaviour.

“I really don’t know. I’m sorry.”

Chan couldn’t stand Hyunjin’s discomfited face so he just sighed in defeat.

“It’s fine. Just tell me next time one of my kids’ parents is a friend of yours, okay?”

“Felix is the only one, I swear!” Hyunjin promised.

Chan looked at the chocolate éclair and smiled to himself. Guess today would be his cheat day.

“Good morning, Chan-ssi!” Felix greeted him when he came to drop Jaemin.

“Good morning, Felix-ssi,” Chan replied. “Thank you again for the éclair, it was delicious.”

Felix brightened at his words and Chan’s heart constricted at his widening smile.

“I’m so happy you liked it!”

“Channie, hi!” Jaemin exclaimed, coming to hug Chan’s legs.

“Hey, little one” Channie replied, squatting to his height and giving him a proper hug. “Are you feeling better?” 

“Yes! Appa gave me chocolate mousse as dessert yesterday so I’m happy! Appa makes the best chocolate mousse in the world!” Jaemin excitedly told Channie before kissing his dad and rushing inside the classroom.

“I’m sorry, he’s always so hyped up every time I give him chocolate as dessert,” Felix said, blushing but with an undeniable fond look in his eyes.

“Jaemin is really the cutest - though I shouldn’t be biased of course!” Chan replied, giggling.

“Channie, helloooo” Chaeyeon exclaimed as she appeared behind Felix and rushed into the classroom without even waving bye to her mother.

“Hello Chaeyeon-ah” Chan replied, chuckling.

“I didn’t notice that the first time” Felix stated, looking straight at Chan.

“What is it?”

“You have dimples when you smile. That’s adorable” Felix answered and Chan blushed a deep shade of red. He was at a loss of words, not knowing if Felix was just being kind or if he was trying to flirt with him. Before he could even think of an answer, Felix smiled the widest yet today, blinding Chan.

“Well, I gotta go. Have a good day!” he said and walked away, leaving a very confused and blushing Chan behind him.

On Fridays, Chan had the habit of doing little games with his kids in the afternoon. They would usually play truth or dare or the musical chairs depending on the mood.

“Okay, guys! What game do you wanna play today?” Chan asked as they all sat down on the floor, making a circle.

“Truth or dare!” the kids exclaimed in one voice.

“Alright” Chan said, chuckling. “Let’s begin with… Somi!”

Somi went for a truth and asked a question to her friend Chaeyoung. All the kids took turns, Chan not really paying attention. He had been thinking about Felix all day and it was bothering him. Chan was having a hard time dealing with Felix’s charm and his own choice of not wanting to be in a relationship. But Felix was kind of perfect for Chan. Felix had a kid so he would probably be going for a serious relationship, not a fling. Though having a kid could also be a reason for Felix to not want to be in a relationship at all. And Chan shouldn’t be thinking about Felix’s relationship status as it didn’t concern him and he didn’t wanna date anyway.

“Channie, it’s your turn!” said Chanmi, who was sitting next to him.

“Sorry. Um, I’ll choose Truth” Chan replied, focusing on his kids back again. They always asked him very interesting questions.

“I know! Who is your favourite in the class?” Chanmi asked, her pretty eyes sparkling with hope and little mischief.

“I can’t choose! I love you all the same!” Chan answered, laughing.

“Nooo!” Chanmi and a few others whined. “You have to choose!”

“Okay, okay!” Chan said, making everyone quiet down. “My favourite in the class is myself.”

“Nooooo!” Everyone whined.

“You cheated, Channie!” Chanmi complained.

“I didn’t! You asked me who’s my favourite in the class. I am in the class” Chan replied, smiling at how wronged Chanmi looked.

“It’s my turn!” exclaimed Changmin, who was sitting on the other side of Chan.

“Truth or dare?” 

“Dare!” Changmin answered, puffing out his tiny chest.

“I want you to get up and bring me your favourite book,” Chan said.

Changmin immediately got up and speed-walked to the little bookshelf at the end of the room and came back with a book.

“Oh, The Jungle Book! That’s a great one! Now, I’m gonna read you this book, alright?” Chan asked, wanting everyone to agree. To his surprise, everyone agreed and so he began to read.

“Have a nice week-end, Chaeyoung! You too, Somi!” Chan waved the little girls off as he bowed to their mothers.

“Bye Channie! See you monday!” Taehyun said, hugging Chan’s legs before running to his dad.

“I’m still convinced that you put a spell on them,” Jisung’s voice came from behind Chan, making him jump.

“Oh my gosh, Ji! I almost died right there!” Chan exclaimed, a hand over his heart.

“You can’t die because if you do, the school will have to close and we’d all be jobless and homeless and kidless.”

“Shut up Jisung” Chan gritted through his teeth as he continuously waved and smiled to his kids who were all wishing him a good week-end.

“Is Felix coming to pick Jaemin up?” Jisung asked.

“Yes, he is. Why?”

“I don’t know. Y’all seem to get along, that’s all” Jisung said, trying to sound normal but it all sounded suspicious to Chan.

“Let me stop you right there. We are not talking about this. No, actually, there’s nothing to talk about. Felix-ssi is Jaemin’s father and we’re just being polite.”

“I didn’t know being polite included complimenting your dimples” Jisung muttered but Chan heard him.

“I can’t believe you’ve been eavesdropping. You’re the fucking worst” Chan whispered so the kids couldn’t hear him curse.

He turned to look inside the classroom to find Jaemin inside, once again.

“Jaemin? What’s up?” he asked, going to sit beside the little boy.

“Channie. I couldn’t play truth or dare before. The story was nice but I wanted to play” Jaemin said, pouting.

“Aw, little one, I’m sorry. But Chanmi surprised me with her question so I wanted everyone to think about something else” Chan explained, his heart melting at Jaemin’s cute pout.

“Can I ask you who’s your favourite then? I’ll keep it a secret, pinky promise!” Jaemin said, extending his tiny pinky to Chan.

Chan chuckled and intertwined his pinky with Jaemin’s.

“You promised now” Chan warned and Jaemin fervently nodded. “It’s you.”

Jaemin’s reaction was priceless. His jaw dropped and his eyes went wide, his cheeks becoming pink.

“Really?” he squeaked out.

“Of course! But don’t tell anyone!” Chan replied, laughing.

“What is my son not supposed to tell anyone?” Felix asked, his deep voice surprising both Jaemin and Chan.

“Appa! It’s a secret! It’s Channie’s secret and I’m the only one to know!” Jaemin said, running up to his dad who easily lifted him up.

“Are you not going to tell me?” Felix asked with a baby voice.

“No!”

“Even if I give you one of these cupcakes uncle Innie made?”

Jaemin hesitated for a second before shaking his head.

“I pinky promised” Jaemin said, sounding determined but also a little sad that he wouldn’t have a cupcake.

“Oooh, if you pinky promised then there’s nothing I can do!” Felix exclaimed, sounding defeated but the twinkle in his eyes gave his amusement away.

“Can I still have a cupcake?” Jaemin shyly asked.

“Sure, baby. Whatever you want as long as it’s possible.”

“Yay! Is Soyeon coming too?”

“Why don’t you go ask uncle Hyunjin while I talk to Chan, hm?” Felix said, putting Jaemin back down who immediately ran to Hyunjin.

“Well, it looks like you’ve got my son wrapped around your finger,” Felix said, turning towards Chan.

“I’m pretty sure it's the other way round,” Chan replied, giggling.

“I'm sorry about what I said this morning. I didn’t wanna make you uncomfortable” Felix said, his cheeks turning a lovely shade of red. Chan mentally punched himself.

“Nah, it's fine. I get a lot of comments on my dimples, it's alright” Chan replied, chuckling and praying for his cheeks not to turn red.

“Still, I feel pretty bad about it. I mean, I shouldn’t have said it, you're my son's teacher after all.”

Chan oddly felt offended to be reduced only to his job but brushed the feeling away.

“Anyway, would you like to come to the bakery? Hyunjin is bringing Soyeon today and you can bring your friend who's obviously listening to our conversation” Felix, waving to Jisung who was looking at them from not very far.

“Han Jisung-” Chan started.

“I would love to come, Felix-ssi,” Jisung interrupted Chan, extending his hand for Felix. “Han Jisung. It's a pleasure to officially meet you. I'm his best friend.”

Felix chuckled and shook Jisung's hand.

“I'm Felix, Jaemin's dad.” Felix turned back to Chan. “So, will you come?”

The moment Chan found the same pleading eyes Jaemin always had when he eagerly wanted something, he knew he had no other choice but to agree. He could never say no to those eyes.

“Let me grab my stuff and we can go.”

Chapter Text

The walk to the bakery was both awkward and comfortable for Chan. Awkward because he wasn’t sure what to think or do with Felix next to him but comfortable because he was with his closest friends. Also, the presence of two little sunshines made his heart feel at ease.

“You told me your bakery was a few blocks from here, right?” Chan asked, trying to make small talk with Felix.

“Yes, it is. I opened just a few days ago but since it’s close to the school and the underground, I dare say it’s going pretty well so far” Felix explained, glancing once towards Chan before refocusing on Jaemin.

“Well, since it’s working well, I won’t have to pay you back, right?” Hyunjin said, hopeful and smiling innocently.

“Sorry Hyunjin-ah but you’ll have to sort this out with Bin hyung. I sure as hell want my money back” Felix replied, smiling as brightly as ever but his tone threatening.

“It wasn’t even my fault!” Hyunjin whined, pouting.

“Liar. It’s not because I didn’t see you break it that I don’t know you did it” Felix retorted, rolling his eyes as if annoyed but his tone was teasing now.

Chan watched the interaction with interest. Hyunjin and Felix looked pretty close already and Chan thought it was sweet. They were clearly fond of each other, talking and bickering like Chan himself did with Hyunjin or Jisung.

“Felix, is it alright if my fiancé comes by?” Jisung asked Felix all of a sudden.

“Sure, no problem!” Felix replied. “Are you alright?” Felix asked Chan, coming to a stop and reaching to put a hand on his shoulder.

Chan felt electricity course through his body the moment Felix touched him. They locked eyes and Chan almost got lost in his pretty eyes. He cleared his throat and resumed walking.

“I’m fine, just a bit tired.”

“Oh god, I get it. I have a hard time dealing with one, it must be exhausting to deal with a bunch of little demons” Felix said, chuckling and retrieving his hand.

Chan instantly missed the touch but, again, brushed the feeling away.

“I do love my job but some days are harder than others, you know? Like, some days I just wanna be home and chill all day” Chan replied, returning the chuckle.

“Even on your days off you don’t chill. You always steal Minho from me” Jisung interjected, purposely stepping between Chan and Felix.

“First of all, it’s rude to listen to people’s conversation and even more to participate in it. Secondly, it’s actually the other way around. Don’t forget that you met your fiancé through me” Chan said, raising his eyebrows in a patronising way.

“Okay, okay” Jisung muttered before catching up to walk with Hyunjin in front.

“I’m sorry about him,” Chan began. “He’s very nosy but he only means good.”

“It’s fine,” Felix replied, a sweet smile on his lips. “My co-worker who’s also my best friend is kind of the same. I love to see how you interact with your friends though. It’s really endearing, the way you have different dynamics with them.”

“I was always fast to adapt and since everyone’s different, I act accordingly.”

“And that’s just how you are, right. Thinking of others first.” It wasn’t a question, Felix talked like he stated a known fact.

Chan was quite surprised that Felix had gotten him right in the span of two days. Was he that obvious or was Felix just more observant than it seemed?

“Appa! I want cupcake” Jaemin exclaimed, running to his dad and hugging his legs.

“Sure, baby. No running though and don’t disturb the customers” Felix replied, ruffling his son’s hair.

Jaemin nodded his head eagerly and went back to Soyeon, taking her hand and dragging her to the bakery’s door.

The bakery was pretty small but Chan wasn’t expecting anything else. It was almost hidden, squeezed between two other, bigger stores. The shop front was in baby blue and the bakery’s name was written in white, cursive font. It was cute as hell.

“Magic Bread ” Chan said as they all entered the bakery.

There was an amazing scent of bread fresh out of the oven mixing with other sugary scents like chocolate and sugar.

“Hyung! You’re finally here!” a man who looked a few years younger than Chan exclaimed, waving at Felix with a blinding smile.

“Uncle Innie!” Jaemin exclaimed, making his way behing the counter, Soyeon closely following.

“Guys! How are you? How was school?” Jeongin asked, squatting to be at head level with the kids, disappearing from sight.

“It was fun!” Soyeon replied, getting closer to Jeongin. “Do you have cupcakes?” she then whispered, making Jeongin chuckle.

“Is that why you’re here? You only like my cupcakes” Jeongin replied, pouting.

“No! We like you too!” Jaemin and Soyeon both replied, eager to prove Jeongin just how much they liked him too by hugging him tight.

“Okay, okay! Since you’re the cutest little monsters in the world, I’ll give you cupcakes” Jeongin said, getting up and taking two very colourful mini cupcakes he had put aside.

“Yay! Thank you uncle Innie!!” The two kids cheered, following Jeongin behind a curtain and to the backroom.

Felix smiled and turned to his guests.

“I’ll take your jackets in a second, just let me catch up with Jeongin first” Felix said and they all nodded before he followed Jeongin in the backroom.

Chan was so happy to be in this bakery, Felix’s bakery. Not that he had never been in a bakery before but it felt special to be here, he felt honoured.

“It’s great, right?” Hyunjin asked, taking his jacket off and going to sit down at a little table that was in a corner, next to the shop window.

“It smells so good and everything looks so delicious, I want to eat them all!” Jisung replied, following Hyunjin and sitting down too.

“What do you think, Chan hyung?” Hyunjin asked, expectant.

“It is great. I’ve never been in such a bakery before. It’s totally different. It’s like this one’s got a soul” Chan answered, looking at the little chandeliers which were illuminating the whole place.

“I’m so happy to hear you say this,” Felix said, coming back behind the counter, a white apron with the bakery’s name written in baby blue on it around his waist.

Chan immediately noticed that he had tied his hair up and changed his shirt for another one.

“The name is a bit unique but you just partially explained it” Felix added, smiling widely. “I want people who come here to not only buy bread or pastries but to take a little bit of magic with them, a little bit of happiness.”

“That’s so sweet” Chan said, feeling weird in his stomach at Felix’s words. “You talk like there’s nothing more magical than happiness.”

“Well, being happy feels like magic for me” Felix simply replied.

The door to the store opened, the little bells hanging over the door tingling, a young boy entering.

“Hello” Felix cheerfully greeted the boy.

“Hello. Could I have half a baguette please?” he asked, taking his wallet out of his pocket.

“Sure. Will that be all?”

“I’ll also take half a dozen empty chouquettes please” the boy added and Felix nodded in understanding.

He handed the boy his order, announced the price and off the boy was after taking his change.

“What was this? Chouquettes?” Jisung curiously asked, getting closer to the counter.

“They are sweet pastries either empty or filled with custard. The filled ones are also called cream puffs,” Felix explained, showing the said pastries to Jisung who looked very interested. “Do you wanna taste them?”

“I can?” Jisung asked, hopeful.

“Sure. The filled ones or empty ones?”

“Filled?” Jisung asked, unsure.

Chan chuckled, shaking his head. Of course Jisung would try to eat pastries for free. Felix smiled and handed a chouquette to Jisung.

“Be careful not to spill the cream on your clothes” Felix warned him as he handed him a tissue.

Jisung bit into the chouquette, custard oozing out of the pastry, almost spilling over. He licked it up and his eyes comically widened.

“Oh my god” he began, his mouth full.

“Ji, gross!” Hyunjin cut, disgusted.

Felix laughed.

“It’s good, right?” he asked and Jisung fervently nodded.

“Do you make the filling yourself?” Chan asked, getting closer to the counter.

“Everything you see here is handmade by either me or Jeongin. We both have our own specialities though.”

“Yeah, one of Felix’s specialities is the éclair. The coffee ones are just delicious” Hyunjin said, his eyes boring into Chan who ignored him.

Just then, the door opened again, a short and buff guy entering.

“Binnie!” Felix and Hyunjin both exclaimed, a wide smile illuminating each of their faces.

Changbin laughed, making his way to his husband.

“Damn, I’m popular today!” he said before kissing Hyunjin on the lips. “Where’s my princess?”

“Eating cupcakes in the back with Jaemin and Jeongin,” Hyunjin replied, rolling his eyes.

“I hope they’ll leave some for me” Changbin joked, sitting down and only now noticing the two other people in the shop. “Oh, hi Jisung, Chan hyung. Why are you here?”

“They’re my guests, Binnie. Be nice” Felix softly warned.

“I am nice!” Changbin exclaimed, making Chan and Jisung jump.

“Babe, my ears” Hyunjin whined and Changbin giggled.

“Sorry, love” he replied, kissing Hyunjin’s temple before turning back to Felix. “I am being nice. I’m just surprised they’re here, that’s all. By the way, the bakery’s kinda calm now. How come?”

“That’s because I dealed with all the rush,” Jeongin replied, appearing from the back room, his denim jacket on, the two kids following him. “Hi, Bin hyung. Take your monster back before I give in to those eyes and give her another special cupcake.”

“Daddy!” Soyeon exclaimed, running to Changbin who hugged her before making her sit on his lap.

“How is my princess doing?” Changbin asked, using his softest voice.

“I want another cupcake but uncle Innie said one is enough,” Soyeon complained, pouting.

“Baby, Innie is right though. You have to leave some space in your little tummy for dinner” Changbin replied, tickling Soyeon’s tummy, making her laugh.

“Thank you Innie, sorry I couldn’t fully cover my shift today” Felix told Jeongin, looking apologetic. “I will try and adjust the schedule, promise.”

“It’s fine, hyung. I told Seungmin I’d be late so it’s alright. I’ll see you tomorrow though!” Jeongin replied, a wide smile making his eyes disappear. “Sorry I can’t stay and try to get to know you all better” he added towards Jisung and Chan. “See you next time though!”

“Next time, for sure!” Jisung replied.

“Yeah, no problem” Chan replied and Jeongin nodded in acknowledgment and off he went.

“Well, I think we’ll head home now,” Hyunjin said, getting up. “The week-end is strating so we’ll see each other soon” he added, looking towards Felix and Chan.

“Yes, let’s go Hyunjin-ah” Changbin said, getting up too, hoisting Soyeon on his hip.

“Bye uncle Binnie, bye uncle Jinnie, bye Soyeon-ah!” Jaemin said, waving to the little family.

“Jaemin-ah, are you hungry?” Felix asked.

“I’m okay because I ate the cupcake uncle Innie made,” Jaemin answered. “But I’m a bit sleepy,” he added, yawning and rubbing his eyes.

Chan’s heart melted at the sight. He rarely got to see Jaemin sleepy or tired since he was always so energetic. Jisung behind him cooed at the cuteness.

“Aw, baby,” Felix started. “We can’t go home right now, there’s still some time left before I can close the shop…”

“Excuse me but isn’t there somewhere Jaemin can lie down and sleep for a moment?” Jisung asked.

“I mean, I have something ready in the back but I can’t leave him alone nor can I leave the shop unattended” Felix replied.

“I can stay with him if you want?” Jisung suggested. “I have to wait for my fiancé anyway, I told him I’d be here.”

“Oh, I don’t want to be a bother-”

“Nonsense! I literally invited myself and you made me taste those amazing chouquettes. The least I can do is help while I’m here” Jisung cut in, a blinding smile on his face. “And I won’t take no for an answer,” he added.

“Well, it would be of great help” Felix said, sounding a bit embarrassed.

“Let’s go Jaemin, it’s time for a little nap” Jisung said, getting behind the counter and taking Jaemin’s hand, going to the backroom.

Chan was ready to either die right then and there or kill Jisung with his bare hands. The little shit. 

“Well, your bakery is really pretty,” he said, repeating himself. Gosh, I’m such a loser .

“Thank you” Felix replied, a sheepish smile on his pretty face.

“It’s quite different from other bakeries. Why is that?”

“Ah, actually I decided to make a French style bakery to stand out from the crowd. It’s smaller but cosy and way cheaper than other bakeries who are more like patisseries than bakeries” Felix explained.

Chan nodded in understanding, taking in how, behind Felix and the little counter displaying cakes and sweets, there were baskets hanging on the wall with different types of bread in each of them. He recognised the original baguette that he had once seen in Paris Baguette but that was it.

“What’s the difference between French bakeries and the others?”

“Well, first of all, I actually sell bread” Felix began, chuckling. “I don’t only sell the basic baguette de pain but also other types like farmhouse bread, fancy bread, wholemeal bread and gluten-free bread. Those are just examples since, as you can see, I do sell more.”

Felix stepped aside and gestured to other baskets which were on the floor that Chan hadn’t seen until then. 

“Isn’t it kinda unhygienic to put them on the floor?” he asked, chuckling.

“They’re not directly on the floor, silly!” Felix teasingly scolded. “If you come closer, you can see that they have little wheels so they don’t actually touch the ground.”

Chan came closer and bent over the glass that protected the pastries to see that, indeed, there were wheels to those baskets.

“Okay, sorry” he said, leaning back giggling.

“It’s fine but I’d like it if you didn’t imply that I don’t respect basic hygien rules in my shop” Felix said, no bite in his tone.

“I did say sorry, geez” Chan replied, jokingly rolling his eyes, making Felix laugh.

He ignored how his heart skipped a beat.

“Anyway, would you like to eat something?” Felix asked, his voice both deep and soft, making Chan shiver.

“What do you recommend?”

“Since you already tasted the éclair, I’d like you to taste the religieuse this time” Felix answered, reaching for a pastry that looked like a snowman’s body in Chan’s opinion.

“Since you tasted the chocolate éclair the other day, taste the coffee flavoured religieuse” Felix said, handing him the pastry.

“Thanks” Chan replied and took the pastry.

Not sure how to eat it, he took the little ball on top and after inspecting it, just put it whole in his mouth. Felix gasped before bursting out laughing. Chan started to chew and when coffee flavoured cream flooded his mouth, nearly choking him, he understood Felix’s reaction.

“Oh my god, Chan! Hear, take those” Felix managed to say through his laughing fit as he handed tissues to Chan.

Tears were threatening to fall from Chan’s eyes but he held them back as he finally swallowed his mouthful.

“Wow, that sure was an experience, I almost died,” he said, embarrassed.

“I’m sorry, I never thought you’d put it full in your mouth, people usually take a bite since it’s filled with cream” Felix replied, his face all red from laughing so hard.

“Anyway, it’s delicious. The bread tastes like the éclair’s bread, it’s very soft” Chan said, taking a bite of the bigger ball, cream oozing out from the sides.

“It’s actually the same baking technique,” Felix replied.

“Well, it’s really good. A bit messy to eat but what’s the fun if your fingers don’t get all sticky with sugar?” Chan joked.

The door then opened, letting a kind of tall and slender man enter. He had both delicate and sharp features, pink lips and cat-like eyes.

“Hello” Felix said, as bright as ever.

Chan turned around and the man smiled.

“Chan-ah! What the hell are you doing here and where is Sungie?” he asked, going to stand next to Chan.

“Are you by any chance the fiancé?” Felix then asked, making the man look at him.

“I indeed am. And you are…?”

“Oh, sorry. Minho, this is Felix. Felix, this is Minho, my best friend and Jisung’s fiancé” Chan explained.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you” Felix said, reaching his hand out. Minho took it before turning back to Chan.

“So? Sungie?” he asked, sounding a little impatient.

“He’s in the backroom with Felix’s son. He’s a student of mine” Chan clarified when Minho threw him a confused look.

“Yes, sorry. I’m gonna go get him” Felix said before disappearing behind the curtain.

“So that’s the man Jisungie told me about? Minho asked, chuckling.

“Shut the hell up,” Chan muttered.

“My, my… Didn’t know you were a home-wrecker, Channie” Minho teased and Chan rolled his eyes.

“I’m not. His son’s mother is out of the picture. And I’m not trying to date him or anything.”

“You got details on his situation already, okay” Minho added before being cut off.

“Jagiya!” Jisung exclaimed, running to Minho and hugging him tight.

“Hi, baby. How was your day?” Minho asked, immediately going soft.

“It was good. But! Felix here made me taste those chouquettes, they’re very sweet and delicious! Can you buy me some?” Jisung asked, making puppy eyes to Minho even if he knew he didn’t have to since Minho always said yes to him.

“Sure, baby” Minho turned to Felix. “How much is it?”

“If you take six, it’ll be 4,000 won. Cream filled, I suppose?” Felix asked Jisung who nodded.

“They’re cheap,” Minho said, handing Felix the money.

“I’m giving you a discount because you’re friends with Chan” Felix replied, chuckling as his face turned pink.

“There’s no need-” Minho began.

“I insist” Felix cut firmly. He handed the bag to Minho with a wide smile.

“Thank you then” Minho replied, an equally wide smile on his face. “We’ll get going then.” he said, taking Jisung’s hand. “Bye, Felix, bye, Chan” he said and walked towards the exit.

“Bye, bye, Felix! See you again!” Jisung exclaimed, waving a hand to Felix who laughed and did the same.

“I like your friends, Chan-ssi,” Felix said, taking his apron off.

“They’re a bit weird, I’m sorry” Chan apologised, shy. 

“Weird is not bad. Have you seen Changbin? He is the most unique person I’ve ever met but he’s also the kindest” Felix said, folding the apron and neatly placing it in a drawer under the cash register. “Let me get Jaemin, I think we’re done for the day” he added before disappearing behind the curtain again.

Chan was wondering what he’d do now. Should he go his way or should he walk Felix home? Did he live far away? Did he walk or drive home? Would he mind Chan going with him? Why was even Chan thinking about this?

A few minutes later, Felix appeared again, a sleepy Jaemin beside him.

“Is it alright for you to take Jaemin outside and wait for me until I’m done closing up?” Felix hesitantly asked.

“Oh, sure, no problem” Chan said and Felix smiled thankfully. “Come on, Jaemin. Let’s wait for your appa outside” he said and Jaemin grabbed his hand, smiling happily at Chan, following him outside.

“Are you still sleepy, little one?”

“A little. I had a nice nap. Jisung sang a song for me” Jaemin answered.

“Oh, did he, now? And did you like it?” Chan asked, crouching to be on eye level with Jaemin.

“Pretty face and pretty voice. But Channie is more pretty.”

“If Jisung hears, he will be sad,” Chan said, chuckling.

“It’s a secret between Channie and me then!” Jaemin said before putting a finger over his lips and saying ‘hush!’

“Do you know what you will do during the week-end?” Chan asked, making small talk so that the little boy didn’t doze-off again.

“Appa said we will go see Soyeon so she can teach me painting. I want to learn with uncle Binnie” Jaemin answered, getting excited.

“But isn’t Hyunjin the best at painting?”

“Uncle Binnie is bad at painting but he’s fun. It’s okay even if I draw ugly” Jaemin said, giggling. “Uncle Jinnie likes perfect drawing, and Soyeon too.”

“I’ve seen your drawings at school and you never draw ugly, little one. On the contrary, you’re one of the best in class” Chan said, ruffling the boy’s hair.

“This is a secret too?” Jaemin asked, his big eyes shining with happiness at Chan’s compliment.

“If you want to. But you can tell others if it’s okay with you, I don’t mind.”

“Channie, you’re the best,” Jaemin said, tightly hugging Chan.

Chan felt his throat close up a little, feeling his heart flutter. Chan knew he was weak for kids but that was a whole other level.

Just then, the door of the bakery opened and Felix stepped out, locking the door before looking at them.

“I’m going to get jealous, Chan gets more hugs than me, Jaemin-ah” he started, feigning to be hurt.

“No, I love Channie but I love appa more!” Jaemin said, immediately letting go of Chan who got back up while Jaemin jumped to hug his father.

“I love you too, baby,” Felix said, kissing his son on the nose. “Ready to go home?” he asked and Jaemin fervently nodded.

“Well, I better go home too,” Chan said, smiling.

“I wish we could have talked more” Felix replied, smiling too but it looked a bit sad. “Thank you for coming.”

“Thank you for inviting me. Have a nice week-end” Chan said before turning to Jaemin. “See you on Monday, Jaemin!”

“Monday, Channie!” Jaemin replied, waving his hand as Chan made his way back to school to get his car. He turned around after crossing the street to see Felix hoisting Jaemin up in his arms and walking away.

Chan wondered why he looked sad about him going home and ignored the flutter of his heart at the idea of walking Felix and Jaemin home.

Chapter Text

Chan spent the week-end curled up in his bed, glued to his phone. He usually didn’t fancy watching rom-coms but he was in such a state that he couldn’t do anything but watch them. It made him realise that he was unfortunately crushing on Felix and he was crushing hard . He didn’t want to be in another relationship so soon after being once again disappointed, but Felix was making it so difficult for him. Okay, it’s been four months since his last break-up and he hadn’t been with them long enough to be heartbroken but he knew it would be different with Felix. He met Felix only a couple days ago and he already couldn’t stop thinking about him. His pretty face, the freckles adorning his cheeks, his cat-like eyes, his pink lips, his deep voice, his blond hair. What also terrified him was how he wanted to know everything about Felix. Every single detail of his life, what he liked to eat, how he came to like patisserie, how he met his friends and, most importantly, how Jaemin came into his life. Chan so deeply wished to know. It was terrifying because it was all new for him, wanting to connect with someone so much, wanting to know them like no one else. Though he had always seeked a serious relationship, he had never felt so strongly for someone before. He fell asleep and woke up to thoughts of Felix and it was slowly driving him insane.

“Damn, you look dead,” Jisung said on Monday morning.

“Good morning to you too, Ji,” Chan replied, groaning.

“Sorry” Jisung apologised. “What happened to your face?” he asked.

“Give it a rest, idiot,” Hyunjin said, flicking him on the forehead. “I’m sure he’ll tell us later why he didn’t walk Felix and Jaemin home on Friday.”

“Fuck the both of you” Chan snapped before going to stand in front of his own classroom.

Chan felt a bit guilty about snapping at his friends but he almost couldn’t sleep last night and woke up so late he couldn’t have his morning coffee. Coffee was always what helped him up in the mornings. He had drastically reduced his caffeine intake a few years ago when he realised he couldn’t function without it. Now, he only drank coffee in the morning.

“Morning, Channie!” energically greeted Hyebin when she entered the class.

“Good morning, Hyebin,” he replied, smiling at the little girl, already feeling a little better.

He knew the kids would cheer him up instead of coffee.

Almost everyone had arrived a couple minutes later but Jaemin was nowhere to be found. Despite himself, Chan searched for the little boy around the corridor, failing to find him. He then felt his phone buzz and took it out to see Hyunjin had texted him.

‘Hey, Chan. Felix told me he’s late to drop Jaemin’

Chan let out a relieved breath and his phone buzzed again.

“Jisung and I are sorry about what we said’

Chan rolled his eyes at this and put his phone away.

“So, who wants to tell everyone about their week-end?” he asked and every single child raised their hand.

“I didn’t feel like it was appropriate,” Chan sighed, his eyes trained on Jaemin among the children on the playground.

Jaemin had entered the classroom about half an hour late, shortly interrupting Somi as she was telling the class how she spent her Saturday in Everland.

“What do you mean, not appropriate ? You’re not taking him on a date for god’s sake, you’re just walking him home” Jisung replied, clearly confused and a bit exasperated.

“Look, I don’t want the lines to be blurred. First of all, it’s very unethical as Felix is my student’s father. Secondly, it’s probably very much one-sided. Finally, I don’t wanna be let down again.”

“Yongik, drop that ball right now!” Hyunjin shouted at a child who immediately looked guilty and dropped the ball on the floor instead of his friend’s head.

“Look, I get the first point but, honestly, I don’t know who’s even gonna care that he’s Jaemin’s dad. Well, if it’s one-sided, that sucks but you can’t do anything about it. And you won’t be let down if you give it a shot” Hyunjin said, making Chan look at him. “I know Felix and it’s been ages since he’s been in a relationship because of Jaemin. It’s hard for him to find someone who doesn’t freak out when they learn he has a child, it’s hard for him to find someone who’d like Jaemin, to find someone that Jaemin would also like. Jaemin already loves you and I know you have a soft spot for him already. And Felix blatantly flirts with you every time he sees you but he tends to overthink. He doesn’t want to make a mistake and I can tell you that trying it with him wouldn’t be a mistake.”

Chan sighed. He didn’t know what to think anymore. He really liked both Felix and Jaemin but he was so afraid. He had been let down too many times to count and he knew that it would be one too many times if Felix were to let him down too.

“It’s too early anyway. I don’t know him at all” he finally said.

“Look, you told us that you wanted to wait for fate, right?” Jisung asked and Chan nodded. “What if Felix is your fate?”

“What if he is mine but I’m not his?”

“Stop being so negative, Chan, it doesn’t suit you” Jisung replied, pouting.

“I know you’re made for each other. I know it” Hyunjin confidently said.

When the day ended, Chan found it a bit weird to see Jaemin’s mother to fetch Jaemin instead of Felix. He found it even weirder that today he didn’t have to sit with Jaemin while waiting for Felix. He locked the door to his classroom with a little sigh and walked towards Hyunjin.

“Are you staying at home tonight?” he asked.

“Yeah. Why?”

“Just wondering,” Chan trailed off.

“What is it?” Hyunjin asked as they waited for Jisung to come out. Chan hesitated but after seeing that Jisung wouldn’t come out soon, he leaned closer.

“Can I have Felix’s number?” he asked.

“You can,” Hyunjin simply replied, teasing. Chan sighed in annoyance.

“Can you please give me Felix’s number?”

“With pleasure,” Hyunjin said, immediately sending Felix’s contact.

Chan was watching TV, trying to ignore the way his phone was glaring at him. He had succeeded in getting Felix’s number but he wasn’t sure what to do now. Should he text him? But what would he say? Wasn’t 8P.M a little late? Maybe Felix was busy taking care of Jaemin or maybe he was busy taking care of himself. Or maybe he wasn’t busy at all. But what if he was and Chan’s text distracted him? And again, what would even Chan text him? So many questions and doubts. Chan sighed and turned the TV off. He grabbed his phone and opened the texting app. His fingers hovered over the keyboard and he finally typed a short text.

Hi Felix, I got your number from Hyunjin. It’s Chan by the way

Chan thought it was okay. A simple greeting was good to test the waters and see if Felix was busy or not. Chan suddenly wished he hadn’t turned the TV off as all he could do now was stare at his phone. But he was afraid to get too engrossed in the TV if he turned it on again and miss Felix’s reply. Just then, his phone vibrated.

Hey, Chan! How are you?

Chan let out a little gasp before replying.

I’m fine! How are you? I hope you’re not busy

Felix’s reply came immediately.

I’m great! I just put Jaemin to sleep gosh, he tired me out

Chan giggled.

lol I can picture it

I was actually wondering if everything was alright

I didn’t see you today

Chan was worried he had crossed a line but he let out a sigh of relief and Felix replied right away.

yeah, I’m sorry if I worried you

I forgot to set up my alarm so I was late to drop Jaemin to school

And it was super busy at the bakery so I couldn’t fetch him either

Jaemin told me he had a great time though

Chan felt so relieved and smiled to himself, remembering how disheveled Felix had looked the first time he saw him.

I get it

It was kinda weird not to see you though haha

It felt a bit empty for me too

but Jaemin told me all about you so I kinda felt like I saw you in a way?

sorry if it sounds weird

it doesn’t!

I hope I’ll see you tomorrow

you definitely will! I just finished setting up my alarm hehe

ah, my mom’s calling I’m sorry

I’d love to text more 🙁

it’s fine! your mom’s more important than me x)

see you tomorrow Chan hyung!

see you tomorrow Felix

Chan stared at the texts, feeling all bubbly and giggly. Felix had wanted to see him too, Felix had called him hyung and Felix had promised to see him tomorrow! Chan put his phone away, a little squeal escaping. He was so damn infatuated with that man it was completely ridiculous.

“Good morning Chan!” Felix cheerfully greeted the next morning.

“Good morning Felix” Chan replied, equally as cheerful.

“Channie, hi!” Jaemin exclaimed, going to hug Chan.

“Hi, hi, little one,” Chan replied, ruffling Jaemin’s hair. The latter kissed his dad bye and rushed inside.

“As expected, it’s better to see your smile myself” Felix said, loud enough for only Chan to hear.

Chan felt his ears burn up but smile wider.

“Look who’s talking, please” he replied, playfully rolling his eyes.

“I gotta go but I’ll see you later?” Felix said, a cheeky smile on his lips.

“You know where to find me” Chan jokingly replied and they both laughed before Felix walked away.

Chan turned to see Hyunjin and Jisung looking at him in disbelief, their mouths open.

“What the acual hell?!” Jisung exclaimed, making some kids around him laugh.

Chan chuckled and went inside his classroom, beaming at the little faces in front of him.

“Let’s talk about feelings, guys!”

After ignoring both Hyunjin and Jisung during breaks and at lunch, Chan found himself sitting next to Jaemin, waiting for Felix.

“How was your week-end, little one?” Chan asked Jaemin.

“It was good! I painted with uncle Binnie and it was fun! Soyeon painted with us too and she made it messy! I liked it” Jaemin answered, sounding very excited.

“I’m happy you had a good week-end” Chan replied, ruffling the younger’s hair.

“And Channie?”

“Oh, I just stayed at home,” Chan simply said, shrugging.

“You don’t go out with your friends?” Jaemin asked, sounding genuinely curious.

“Not every time,” Chan answered, giggling. “Sometimes, I like to stay at home, focus a bit on myself.”

Jaemin nodded his head, pensive.

“Do you have a lot of friends Channie?”

“Just a few. Hyunjin and Jisung are my friends and Jisung’s boyfriend Minho is also my friend. I have a couple more and I met new people thanks to you and your dad!” Chan replied, mirroring the bright smile Jaemin was giving him.

“I have a lot of friends! But I only have one best friend! Do you have a best friend?”

“Minho is actually my best friend. I’ve known him since I was your age.”

“Wow!” Jaemin exclaimed, impressed. “Do you think me and Chaemin can stay best friends that long?”

“Chaemin and you surely can,” Chan said, subtly correcting the boy.

Chan’s words made the little boy smile even brighter and Chan melted at the sight.

“Jaemin-ah~” Felix singsonged as he appeared at the door.

“Appa!” Jaemin exclaimed, remaining seated. “Come sit with Channie and me!” he urged his father.

Felix questioned Chan with his eyes and when he nodded, he went to sit next to his son.

“How was your day, little boy?” Felix asked, kissing the top of Jaemin’s head.

“Very good! Channie was super happy, right Channie?”

“Sure” Chan replied, giggling as he felt his face burn. He had been super happy because of Felix and he suspected the latter knew it. “Jaemin had a lot of fun with Chaemin today, right?”

“Appa, we played tag! I want to run fast like Chaemin!” Jaemin said, bouncing on his seat, struggling to contain his excitement.

“We’ll ask Uncle Binnie to teach you how to run next time, okay?” Felix suggested and Jaemin nodded. Felix then turned to Chan. “How was your day?”

“Oh, um” Chan began, the blush returning to his cheeks. “It was fine, same old stuff. How was yours?”

“Quite busy. I didn’t have a minute to text you” Felix replied and Chan felt himself implode at the honesty.

“Well, you could always make up for it tonight? If you want?” Chan tried, his heart skipping a few beats at his own boldness.

“Sure,” Felix replied, winking. Chan swore he died at that moment.

“Channie?” Jaemin asked, tugging on his shirt’s hem. Chan looked down at him. “Are you okay? Your face is all red” he worriedly asked.

Felix chuckled and Chan wanted the ground to swallow him.

“I’m okay, little one. Don’t worry” he answered, ignoring Felix and ruffling the boy’s hair.

“Appa, can we go home?” Jaemin asked, suddenly sounding tired.

“Of course, baby. If you behave well, I’ll let you have a piece of brownie, okay?”

“I’ll be the best! Let’s go eat brownie, appa!” Jaemin exclaimed, almost running out of the classroom.

“Wait Jaemin-ah!” Felix called, going after him. Jaemin stopped in the tracks and turned around. “Aren’t you forgetting something?”

“Bye bye, Channie!” Jaemin said, waving his little hand with a bright smile on his cute face. Chan was flabbergasted at how much he looked like his father.

“See you tomorrow, Jaemin” Chan replied, waving.

“Later, Chan hyung” Felix said, smiling knowingly before turning around and going his way.

Chan stayed seated a few more minutes, gathering his thoughts and his heart. He saw Hyunjin waiting for him, a sleepy Soyeon next to him. He sighed and quickly gathered his stuff. As he locked the door behind him, his phone buzzed.

I’ll put a piece of brownie aside just for you 😘

Felix would be the death of him, Chan was sure of it.

Chapter Text

“We just texted a little, it’s really no big deal,” Chan said, trying to calm Hyunjin down.

“Hyung, you literally flirted with Felix after texting him once !” Hyunjin exclaimed.

“Appa, what is flirting?” Soyeon asked and Hyunjin looked at his daughter, mortified.

“I-I’ll let daddy tell you, okay?” Hyunjin replied and Soyeon obediently nodded.

“Look, it can barely be considered as flirting, I don’t see why you’re making it such a big deal. Didn’t you want me to get to know Felix better?”

“Of course I did!”

“Then let me make my own choices without questioning it. I’m going with the flow, okay? My own pace.”

Hyunjin fell silent at that. They walked in silence, the only sound being Soyeon’s little shoes on the pavement. When they got to Chan’s car, Hyunjin turned to him.

“I’m sorry if you felt like I was judging you. I just-” he sighed. “Changbin cares the most about Felix, out of any of his other friends. He’s got his own story and even if I know you’ll be a great couple, I can’t help but worry - for both of you. I just wanted to make sure you’re okay.”

“Thank you, Jinnie. I love you.”

“Let’s not go that far!” Hyunjin exclaimed, acting disgusted. Chan giggled. “But I love you too.”

After Chan was done eating and showering, he layed in his bed, playing a rhythm game on his phone when a notification popped up. A text from Felix.

Hi Chan~

Hey, Felix

Jaemin’s already asleep?

Brownies work like magic

I apologise for the monster you’ll have at school tomorrow though

It’s alright

He’s adorable when he’s all hyped up

I wanted to tell you I really enjoyed seeing you today

And I hope my flirting didn’t make you uncomfortable

Chan squealed. He knew they had been flriting but to hear it directly from Felix, to hear him confirming it was just another level. Chan was so gone for him.

It didn’t

It actually fueled me to flirt back

I’m so glad to hear that!

Well, I’d love to talk more but there’s something I wanna tell you

And I don’t wanna do it by text

So I’m going to try and go to sleep

You got me all curious now! Not fair 🙁

Good night Felix <3

I can’t wait to see you tomorrow

Good night hyung x

The next day couldn’t have come faster for Chan. In the morning, Felix dropped Jaemin, exchanged a few words with Chan, acting like he didn’t have anything special to tell him. But Chan knew it would be something out of the ordinary. Something in Felix’s eyes told him that it would probably change their relationship. He went through his day as casually as he could, a strange but warm fuzzy sensation coursing through his body. He told Hyunjin and Jisung about it to try and downplay it but it only made him even more curious and expectant. When the day ended, he was out of his mind, at the end of his tether.

“See you tomorrow, Channie!” Chaemin said, waving at Chan as he followed his mother.

“See you!” Chan replied, waving at his other kids, almost absentmindedly. He couldn’t wait for Felix to arrive and talk to him.

He then felt something pulling at the hem of his shirt. He looked down and found Jaemin looking at him, his little fingers releasing his shirt.

“Jaemin? What’s up?” he asked. It was the first time he found Jaemin out of the class while waiting for his dad.

“I want to wait with you. Can I?” Jaemin asked, unsure but looking hopeful.

“Of course you can,” Chan answered, grabbing Jaemin’s little hand. “It’s different to wait here than in the class, right?”

“I only see everyone during recess. We are a lot in school” Jaemin replied, squeezing Chan’s hand.

Chan felt his heart burst at Jaemin’s gesture. Then, he thought of something.

“Jaemin-ah, can I ask you a question?” he asked, crouching to be on eye level with him, their hands not leaving each other. Jaemin nodded.

“Do you not like being around too many people? Is it hard for you?” Chan asked, his voice as soft as possible to not scare the kid.

Jaemin blushed and looked down, his hand trembling inside Chan’s. The latter squeezed it softly and met Jaemin’s eyes again, smiling encouragingly.

“It’s just…” Jaemin started. “It’s always me and appa. And I have a lot of friends but sometimes I get a bit scared. It’s a big school.”

Chan’s heart broke at that. He had kind of suspected it but hearing it directly from Jaemin was the worst thing ever.

“Thank you for telling me, little one. I want you to know that you can come to me when you feel like it’s too much. When you get scared, you can come to me or to any teacher you trust, okay? Never hesitate. No one’s going to judge you” Chan said, making Jaemin relax and smile shyly.

“Thank you Channie,” Jaemin said, tightly hugging Chan.

Chan hugged him back as tightly, his heart kicking up. He liked this kid too much.

“Did I miss something?” Felix’s voice came, making Chan release Jaemin immediately. 

“Hi, Felix” Chan greeted.

“Hi, hyung” Felix greeted back, his eyes shining. “Hi, baby,” he added toward his son.

“Appa!” Jaemin exclaimed, jumping into his father’s arms.

“Did you have a good day buddy?” Felix asked Jaemin, effortlessly lifting him up.

“Yes! And appa?”

“I did have a great day,” Felix warmly answered. “Is it okay if I speak to Chan for a moment? You can go play in the meantime. Just be careful!” Felix told Jaemin who immediately jumped down from his father’s embrace.

“How was your day, hyung?” Felix asked Chan once Jaemin was out of ear-reach.

“Quite fuzzy to be honest. I couldn’t stop thinking about what you wanted to tell me” Chan honestly replied.

“Well, I better get this out of the way then” Felix said, smiling. “Would you like to go on a date with me?”

Chan froze at Felix’s words. Out of every single thing he had imagined, Felix asking him out wasn’t one of them. He was  truly at a loss for words and Felix’s quickly turning red face was what urged him to still try and say something, anything.

“Well, I mean… yes?” he hesitantly said, confused.

“Is that a question?” Felix giggled, amused.

“It's just… I’m a bit confused, I guess” Chan replied.

“If I’ve made you uncomfortable, I’m really sorry. You’re not forced to go on a date with me. I just thought I’ve read the signs right” Felix awkwardly said, a hand going to his pulse point.

“You did, you really did read the signs right” Chan immediately replied, a little too eager. He couldn’t let this opportunity go away. “I would love to go on a date with you, Felix.”

“Great!” Felix said, his face lighting up. “I’ll text you the details later then?” he asked, blinking repeatedly in a flirting manner.

“As you wish” Chan answered, his heart doing somersaults in his chest. “Have a nice evening, Felix.”

“Have a nice evening, hyung” Felix replied, leaning to leave a short peck on Chan’s cheek.

Chan froze for a second, looking at Felix's retreating back absentmindedly. When Felix turned around and waved for the last time, Chan waved back, a wide smile subconsciously making its way to his lips. When he finally lowered his hand, he brought it to his cheek then to his heart and prayed that it had all been real.

When his phone vibrated later that evening, Felix giving him the day and hour for their date ㅡ their date!ㅡ he let out the cringiest, most high-pitched squeal of all time and thought 'Thank God for Lee Felix'.

Chapter Text

When Chan woke up the next day, he was still in a daze. He had a hard time believing that he wasn’t dreaming. He got ready on autopilot and when he arrived at school, he met Minho who had dropped Jisung off.

“Hey, Chan” Minho said, an ominous glint in his eyes.

“I don’t even wanna hear it,” Chan said, skipping a greeting.

“I was just wondering why you were here so early? I usually leave before you can see me when I drop Sungie off” Minho said, sounding so casual Chan almost fell for it.

“I really don’t know how Jisung heard but I’ll tell you one thing. Saturday” Chan said, sighing deeply as he walked to his class.

“That’s all I needed, thanks!” Minho shouted after him, laughing.

Chan entered his classroom and sat at his desk, emptying his bag. He looked at the time and realised that he only had ten minutes before he would see Felix dropping Jaemin off.

It was a different feeling to know his crush on Felix was reciprocated. The butterflies when he thought of him were still here, of course, but the warmth in his chest was more all-consuming than before. It made him feel all dizzy and hazy but in a good way. He also was less scared of his heart beating faster. It made him feel confident and secure in a way he never had experienced before. But the biggest change was the happiness he felt at every passing minute. Thinking of Felix just made him smile so much, he was so happy he was going insane. What had Felix done to him?

“You look crazy,” Minho said from the classroom’s door.

“I might be going insane,” Chan replied, giggling. 

Minho walked closer to his friend, sat on his desk beside him and smiled at him.

“He looked like a sweetheart the other day.”

“He is. I like him so much, Minho.”

“Well, let’s hope for the best then. I gotta go now, have a good day,” Minho said, placing a reassuring hand on Chan’s soulder before standing up.

“You too, Min” Chan replied.

He looked at the time once again. Five minutes. Time for cardiac coherence then.

“Good morning, Somi! You look so pretty with your new ribbon!” Chan greeted the little girl, making her squeal in delight.

As always, seeing the kids helped Chan feel less stressed. It really worked like magic, the kids’ enthusiasm being contagious. The cardiac coherence had helped him immensely but he was still a bit nervous. He felt like a teenager expecting to catch a glimpse of their crush. Just then, he saw Felix entering the building. Gosh, he was so beautiful.

“Hello, Chan hyung” Felix said, once he stood in front of Chan, the brightest smile ever on his face.

“Hi Channie!” Jaemin exclaimed, hugging Chan’s legs before kissing his father’s cheek and rushing inside the classroom.

“Hey, Felix. How you doin’?” he teasingly asked as he leaned on the wall.

Felix chuckled and blushed lightly.

“I’m fine, thanks. How ‘bout you?” he asked back, the same teasing tone in his voice.

“I’m alright,” Chan replied, giggling. “Still trying to believe yesterday was real,” he added, lowering his voice.

“It was very real, hyung,” Felix said, a glint in his eyes. “I’m determined to make you believe it was.”

“Please do” Chan let out, his voice just above a whisper. He knew he was blushing but he couldn’t care less.

“I gotta go or I might do something that might get me arrested for indecency,” Felix said, chuckling. “See ya later, hyung!” he said and disappeared before Chan could utter a single word.

When Felix came to fetch Jaemin at the end of the day, Chan was once again holding Jaemin’s hand as they both stood outside the classroom.

“Channie, can I ask you something?” Jaemin asked, squeezing Chan’s hand.

“Sure, little one.”

“Are you friends with my appa now?” Jaemin asked, sparkling eyes looking up at him.

“I guess we can say we are friends, yes” Chan replied, chuckling and ignoring the fluttering feeling in his chest. “Why do you ask?”

“So, if you’re my appa’s friend, I’m your friend too?” Jaemin asked again, hopeful this time.

“Mmh, I thought you and I were already friends,” Chan said, pouting. Jaemin’s eyes widened.

“We are?”

“Of course. I’ve known you for over a whole month, Jaemin-ah. Just like you’re friends with all your classmates, I’m also everyone’s friend.”

“Oooh!” Jaemin exclaimed, beaming. “I like being your friend, Channie!”

“I like being your friend too, little one,” Chan said, squatting down so he could hug Jaemin.

“I’m going to start getting jealous, you know?” Felix’s deep voice interrupted.

“There’s no need to get jealous, Jaemin is your son” Chan said, giggling as he got up and Jaemin jumped in his father’s arms.

“That’s not what I’m talking about” Felix replied, teasingly staring at Chan, who blushed.

“Appa, I’m Channie’s friend! Are you his friend too?”

“Of course I am, baby. Your friends are also my friends” Felix said, leaving a wet kiss on Jaemin’s cheek who squealed.

“Is it alright for me to walk you out?” Chan timidly asked, his ears burning.

“Sure” Felix cheerfully replied, his eyes sparkling.

Chan nodded, went to gather his stuff and on their way out of the school they were.

Jaemin started talking his father’s ear off, telling him about his day. Chan loved to see Jaemin with his father. He looked so different in a familiar and safe environment - not that school wasn’t safe but the embrace of a parent is different. He looked so much happier with his father, more at peace in a way. And Felix also looked the happiest with his son in his arms. Chan couldn’t help but watch him, trying to commit to memory his unreal features. The freckles adorning his pretty face, the same freckles he could see on Jaemin’s face though more discreet. The way his eyes crinckled when he laughed, how his eyes widened and his eyebrows shot up when he acted surprised or excited by what Jaemin was telling him. The way his pink lips stretched over white teeth when he laughed. Chan was once again amazed by how much father and son looked alike. He stayed silent all the way to the entrance gates, just happy to see two of his favourite people being happy together.

Felix came to a stop and turned to look at Chan, catching him staring. Chan blushed and Felix chuckled.

“Thank you for walking us out, hyung.”

“Ah, no problem,” Chan replied, scratching the back of his head. “I’ll see you in the morning?”

“I won’t be able to take Jaemin to school tomorrow,” Felix said, apologetic. “He’s going to spend the night at Hyunjin and Changbin’s.”

“Oh. Okay, that’s fine” Chan said, a little disappointed.

“But I’ll come fetch him anyway so we’ll see each other then,” Felix quickly said, a soft smile on his face.

“Sure,” Chan replied, trying his best to sound cheerful. “See you, then.”

“Tomorrow, Channie!” Jaemin exclaimed, waving his little hands in Chan’s face, making the latter giggle.

“Tomorrow, Jaemin!” 

When Chan got home later, he got a message from Felix:

D-1 😘

Felix was going to be the death of him.

“I can’t believe you!” Hyunjin exclaimed when he arrived at school the next day.

“Hello to you too, Hyunjin” Chan said, wondering if that’s how it was going to be from now on. Hyunjin foregoing greetings and screaming at him.

“No greetings for you, hyung. Why did I have to hear from Binnie that you were going on a date with Felix?”

“WHAT?!” Jisung screeched and Chan sighed, resigned.

“I was going to tell you - both of you - when I had wrapped my head around it” Chan stated, unwilling to look at any of his friends.

“Well, that means never!” Hyunjin whined, pouting.

“Or that could have been after the date” Jisung reasoned.

“Guys, no offense, but I think it’s none of your business,” Chan added.

“What do you mean none of our business? We’re trying to live through you, hyung” Jisung said, jokingly.

“Well, Hyunjin is a happily married father and you are going to get married soon. What more could you wish to live through me?” Chan asked, mildly annoyed.

“Hyung, I was literally the one to encourage you to try it out with Felix, how could you not tell me about it?” Hyunjin asked, sounding a little bit concerned now.

He got closer to Chan and put his hands on his shoulders, making him look up.

“Are you okay?” he asked and Chan sighed.

“I don’t know. I mean, I'm super happy that he wants to go on a date with me but I’m scared. I really like him and I don’t wanna ruin it” Chan admitted.

“You’re not gonna ruin anything” Jisung said. “I don’t know Felix but from what I’ve seen so far, he seems to really like you too.”

“He’s right,” Hyunjin added. “And you’re kinda perfect, you know? I don’t see how you could possibly ruin anything.”

“Thank you guys” Chan said, smiling softly at his friends.

“And if you need to get out of the date, you have our numbers” Jisung joked, making Chan chuckle.

“I don’t think that’d be necessary but I appreciate it.”

When Changbin came to drop Jaemin and Soyeon, he approached Chan.

“Hey” he said. “Can I talk to you for a second?”

“Sure” Chan replied, stepping away from his classroom while still waving to the kids who greeted him.

“First of all, I’m sorry I told Hyunjin, I didn’t know you hadn’t told him yet. I hope he didn’t bother you too much,” Changbin said, looking sorry.

“It was fine,” Chan assured, smiling.

“Also, I hope you’ll treat Felix well. If I ever hear that you hurt him or even made his smile drop, you’ll have to deal with me.”

“I’ll keep that in mind, thanks” Chan replied, his smile widening a little.

“Okay, well. Have a good day.”

“You too,” Chan said, watching Changbin make his way towards Hyunjin, kissing his cheek before walking away.

“Channie, morning!” Jaemin exclaimed, jumping right in front of Chan.

“Good morning, Jaemin! How are you?” Chan asked, his energy going up.

“Super good! I had a sleepover with Soyeon!”

“That’s great,” Chan replied, ruffling the little boy’s hair.

Chan stepped inside the classroom and closed the door behind him.

“Okay, let’s get started.”

At lunch, Chan had received a text from Felix telling that he probably wouldn’t be able to come fetch Jaemin after all. He’d been a bit bummed but told him that it was fine and Felix replied saying that Hyunjin was going to take Jaemin with him.

“So, you’re taking Jaemin with you?” Chan asked Hyunjin after all the kids had gone and Chan was trailing behind Hyunjin like a sad puppy as he gathered his stuff.

“Guess so, yeah. Felix told me he wouldn’t be able to make it” Hyunjin nonchalantly replied.

“Did he tell you why?” Chan asked as they got out of the classroom and Hyunjin locked the door.

“No, he didn’t. But if you’re curious, you could always ask him, you know” Hyunin replied, a teasing smile on his lips. He then turned towards the two kids that were playing. “Soyeon-ah, Jaemin-ah! Come here, we’re going home!” he called.

“Appa, can we go to the bakery? I want to eat cupcakes” Soyeon asked, making puppy eyes at her father.

“Sorry, Soyeonie, we can’t. But I can ask daddy to bring some for you and Jaemin, how’s that sound?”

“But I wanted to see uncle Innie,” Soyeon said, pouting. Hyunjin smiled and crouched to be at eye-level with his daughter.

“Sweetie, you’ll see Innie soon but we really can’t go to the bakery today. Next time, I promise I’ll bring you there. Right, Jaemin?” Hyunjin turned to Jaemin for some support.

“Your appa is right, Soyeon-ah. Next time I’ll even ask my appa to make us something special!” Jaemin said, trying to cheer his friend up.

“You promise?” Soyeon asked, full of hope.

“Promise!” Jaemin replied and that made a smile appear on Soyeon’s face.

They finally began to walk out of the school, the two kids ahead of the two teachers.

“So, your date is tomorrow. Do you know what you’re going to do?” Hyunjin asked Chan, his eyes never leaving the kids.

“I don’t know and I haven’t asked. I’ll text Felix to ask about the details, like the time and if I should pick him up or not.”

“If you do, bring flowers. Felix really likes flowers.”

“Thanks,” Chan replied, smiling at his friend.

They got to the schoolgate and Chan turned to the kids.

“Well, see you on Monday, guys” he said, widely smiling at them.

“Monday, Channie!” they said in one voice, waving their little hands. Chan waved back and went his way.

Once home, Chan texted Felix and they agreed for Chan to go pick up Felix at 7PM. When Chan went to sleep, the excitement made it so it took more time than usual for him to fall asleep.

Chapter Text

When Chan entered Felix’s address in his car’s GPS, he had been surprised by how close Felix lived to him. It was only a ten minute ride and even though Chan had lived in Seoul almost his whole life, he hadn’t known that there was such an upscale neighbourhood near his own. Felix lived in a huge white building that definitely had more than 20 floors. Chan was pretty well-off but he never could have imagined Felix living in such an expensive neighbourhood as a single father. He mentally slapped himself for going for the cliché picture of the financially struggling single parent. Felix owned a bakery, he definitely wasn’t struggling, that’s for sure. Chan shook those thoughts away, grabbed the flowers he picked on his way and got out of his car.

In the elevator, Chan tried to calm his nerves. His mood has been up and down since Felix asked him out, sometimes excited, sometimes nervous. The one thing he didn’t wanna do was ruin his chance with Felix. The elevator dinged as he reached his floor and soon enough, he was wiping his sweaty hands on his jeans before ringing the bell.

Chan heard a few hurried steps coming closer, someone tripping and then the door opened half-way to show Jeongin, his hair dishevelled.

“Hey, almost died right there,” he said, chuckling. “How are you?” he asked, standing in the doorway.

“I’m fine, thanks. How about you?” Chan asked, smiling despite the nerves.

“I’m fine. Felix is coming but I was closer to the door-” Jeongin began before the door opened wider, Felix appearing.

“Liar, you literally rushed for the door,” Felix said, exasperated. “Hi, Chan. Oh, you brought me flowers? That's so sweet of you.”

Chan was stunned. Felix was looking ethereal, his wavy blonde hair framing his face, making his skin look tanner than usual, his freckles even more apparent. He had put on makeup, glitter around his eyes, very discreet eyeshadow and some lip gloss from what Chan could see. He was wearing black skinny jeans with a white t-shirt tucked in and a simple  blue shirt over it. It was such a casual outfit but Chan thought that Felix had never looked better.

“Chan? Are you okay?” Felix asked and Chan suddenly noticed that he’d been staring. HE loved the blush on Felix’s face.

“Yeah, sorry. Here” he said, handing the flowers to Felix.

“I’ll put these in a vase and we’ll be on our way.”

Chan dumbly nodded, his gaze following him until he couldn’t see him anymore.

“Dude, you’re so whipped,” Jeongin said, snickering. “Can’t blame you though, Lix hyung is pretty after all.”

“Pretty is an understatement” Chan mumbled, embarrassed.

“Look,” Jeongin started, putting a hand on Chan’s shoulder, “I know Bin hyung told you already but you better not hurt him or you’ll have to deal with three furious bestfriends. And you don’t wanna see Seungminie angry” he finished, a soft smile on his face despite his menacing words.

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

“Okay, we can go!” Felix exclaimed, coming back. “Don’t make Jaemin sleep too late and if he whines for food, heat up leftovers.”

“It’s not the first time Minnie and I take care of our nephew. Now, go!” Jeongin said, waving his hand before closing the door. They heard him trip once again and his steps fading away.

“Oh my god, I’m so embarrassed” Felix muttered, chuckling as they made their way to the elevator.

“Your friends are all super nice and adorable, Felix,” Chan said, trying to ease the other’s embarrassment.

“I hope Jeongin didn’t tell you something weird.”

“Just a little warning, nothing else,” Chan replied, smiling.

“Gosh, I’m going to skin him alive-”

“I like that they’re looking after you. Changbin did the same this morning at school” Chan said as they stepped out of the elevator.

“I’m sorry about them,” Felix sheepishly said.

“Hey, it’s fine,” Chan said, stopping and putting a hand on Felix’s arm. “They just love you very much and wanna make sure you’ll stay happy.”

Chan smiled widely at Felix and the other blushed once again.

“Thank you” he said, his voice low and soft.

“So, where are you taking me?” Chan asked as they resumed walking.

“I’m going to take you to a restaurant I really like. It’s a bit far but the food is worth it” Felix said, his everlasting smile back on his pretty face.

“Good thing I took my car, then” Chan said, chuckling.

“You took your car?” Felix asked and Chan led the way to his car.

“I thought it might come in handy and I was right,” Chan answered, a proud smile on his face. He opened the door for Felix to get in before rounding the car and getting in the driver seat.

“Let me enter the address.”

They made small talk on the way to the restaurant, both at ease with each other, the conversation flowing easily. When they arrived at the restaurant, Chan was glad to see a traditional korean restaurant, one of his favourtie kind. They entered the little establishment, Felix giving his name for a reservation he’d made and the waiter told them to take their shoes off before leading them to a table in the far back. They sat down on the floor, cross-legged face to face and the waiter walked away after giving them menus.

“I hope you like Korean food,” Felix said, smiling.

“I love it. You couldn’t find a better place for our first date,” Chan honestly said.

“I’m glad” Felix replied, his smile widening.

They began to silently scan through their menus, Chan having a hard time choosing only one dish. When the waiter came back, he went for a bibimbap and steamed dumplings while Felix chose a tofu stew and bulgogi. The waiter bowed and left.

“Can I ask what you told Jaemin about tonight?” Chan asked, willing to talk while they waited for the food.

“I told him I was meeting a friend for dinner” Felix simply replied.

“And what did he say?”

“He told me to eat well and to enjoy myself” Felix answered, a fond smile on his face.

“He’s such a sweetheart.”

“He is.”

“Does it happen often?” Chan asked before he could stop himself.

Felix cocked his head to the side, looking confused.

“What do you mean?”

“I’m sorry, it sounds so bad” Chan apologised, embarrassed. “I wanted to ask when was your last date,” he sheepishly explained.

“That’s fine. My last date was quite a long time ago. But not long enough that Jaemin hasn’t seen me go out by myself. He’s not quite used to it but he doesn’t ask further questions” Felix calmly replied, easing Chan’s embarrassment. 

“That was quite insensitive of me, I’m sorry.”

“When was your last date?” Felix asked.

“Some months ago, Minho introduced me to a girl. We dated for a whole week before she broke up with me. She was really pretty and nice until she told me she didn’t want to see me anymore because she found me boring” Chan said, chuckling nervously. “It kinda hurt but I can’t expect everyone to like me, you know?”

“That’s so rude. If it can make you feel better, I don’t find you boring at all” Felix said, smiling.

“You don’t know me yet.”

“I know enough to not find you boring. You have a red car, that’s not boring!” Felix teased, laughing.

“Oh, gosh. Minho gave me hell when I bought it. I don’t need more teasing” Chan said, hiding his face with his hands. “But I guess that’s not considered boring, yeah.”

“So, that was it? You didn’t have any other dates after that?” Felix asked and Chan nodded.

“I just decided that it was time for me to stop. I’m at an age when I wanna find something serious, you know? I can’t take any more heartbreak from people who don’t see themselves with me in the long run” Chan explained, noticing the weight of his words a couple seconds too late. “I-I mean…” he trailed off, disbelieving of himself. How could he fuck up this bad in ten seconds?

But Felix laughed, throwing his head back and clapping his hands a few times.

“Well, you could have waited some more dates before asking for my hand in marriage” he said, still laughing and Chan groaned, his ears burning.

“That’s literally not what I meant, I don’t know why I said what I said, that was way too serious, we’re only on our first date, damn, I’m so sorry” Chan started, panicking.

“Hey, hey, hey. Calm down, hyung” Felix said, reaching for one of Chan’s hands. “It might be a bit early for a proposal but not too early to see if we’re on the same page. I don’t want just a fling with you. I do want to be with you in the long run. It’s fine, you didn’t overstep or anything. You’re fine, we’re fine.” 

Felix’s words mixed with how he rubbed his thumb on Chan’s hand were enough to calm him down. He took a deep breath, catching Felix’s eyes, loving the way they sparkled.

“You have really pretty eyes, Felix” he blurted, his voice as soft as ever. He loved the shade of pink on Felix’s face at his words and the little smile on his pretty lips.

“Thank you. And you have a very cute nose” Felix replied, teasing. 

“Hush,” Chan said, smiling back.

Just then, the waiter came with their orders. They thanked him and dug in. After a few spoonfuls, Chan looked at Felix.

“Is it alright for me to ask some questions?” he asked.

“Of course. I’ll answer anything you might be curious about” Felix gently replied.

“It’s about Jaemin’s mother” Chan started, unsure, and Felix visibly stiffened at her mention.

“Ask away” Felix encouraged him.

“Well, you told me she was out of the picture. And I was wondering if Jaemin’s last name was yours or hers” Chan carefully asked.

“He got mine. His mother’s last name is Son. Son Naeun.”

“Why is it yours? If it’s not too much to ask.”

“When Jaemin was first born, his mother couldn’t breastfeed him. Partly because it was psychologically hard for her and partly because she didn’t want to. We weren't ready to be parents but someone had to feed him so I did. She would pull milk and with the help of the nurses around me, I would mimic breastfeeding. I would take my shirt off and hold him skin on skin. It's very important for newborns to be held skin on skin to their parents; they become familiar to their scent, to their bodies and associate them with safety. It's the first show of love we give them. Anyway, it was very clear from the beginning that I would be the one to raise him so that's why he wears my name, Lee."

"Can I ask why you were the one to raise him?"

"In university, Naeun and I had common friends and one night we were out in the bar, she put something in my glass and forced herself on me. She was fully aware that I was gay but it didn’t stop her. I actually don't remember a single thing from that night apart from that I woke up in her room with the worst hangover of my life."

"Oh my gosh" Chan breathed out.

"Jaemin wasn't supposed to be born and her family thought that it was my fault that she'd gotten pregnant in the first place. My family believed me and helped me until I was financially stable enough to move and take him myself."

"That's so fucked up. I'm sorry to hear that. It must have been so hard.”

“I won’t deny that it was, I had literally no idea what I was doing most of the time. But my family and friends helped me and I’m so grateful to them. Jaemin got to grow up with good, nice people and I hope I’ll be able to raise him to also become a good, nice man” Felix said, almost tearing up.

“You will, I know you will. Jaemin looks up to you, I’m sure he wants to be like you” Chan said and Felix brightly smiled at him. They ate in a comfortable silence before Chan spoke again. “Has he gotten accustomed to her absence now?”

“He still asks about her from time to time. It’s hard to tell him that I don’t know where she is or what she’s doing. But it’s a relief he never cries for her. It would break my heart if he did.”

“You’re so strong Felix.”

“Enough about me!” Felix said, his eyes glossy and his voice thin. He cleared his throat. “My turn to ask questions! Hm, let’s see… Why did you become a teacher?”

“That’s what you’re curious about?” Chan laughed and Felix nodded. “Well, I used to tutor kids when I was in high school and I discovered that I loved teaching. It felt fulfilling to make them learn things they didn’t know or see them understand something they didn’t. I love my job. And I also always loved children. They’re still cute at this age” Chan said, making Felix chuckle.

“My mom tells me the same thing. I honestly can barely deal with one so dealing with twenty or so monsters? Impossible. I’d go insane” Felix said, making Chan laugh.

“The first few years are like that, yeah. But once you’re established in a school and the kids start to recognise you, it becomes easier. Something else you might be curious about?”

“Well, I just realised I don’t know your age” Felix sheepishly said.

“33. You?”

“30.”

“There’s not too much of an age gap,” Chan said, giggling. “But you’re so young and already have a bakery to yourself? That’s quite impressive.”

“I’ve always loved baking. I’ve been baking with my grandma since I was old enough to hold a whisk. When Jaemin was about 8 months old, I went to France to follow a 2 months long baking fast-track training. I came back to Korea with a certificate to open a French styled bakery” Felix explained, his eyes sparkling.

“And you were able to afford all of that? That’s incredible” Chan awed.

“I used to model when I was in university and it paid very well. But when my grandma passed away, I discovered she left me a lot of money to support my dream and my son. That’s part of how I’m kind of well-off.”

“Incredible. Truly amazing.” 

“Hush, it’s not” Felix said, blushing.

“Felix. You’re an amazing man. You’ve done it all yourself, you’ve made your dream come true while caring for your son all by yourself. It’s not anyone who can do that. I really respect you so much for that.”

The genuineness in Chan’s voice almost brought Felix to tears. He looked away, willing himself not to cry before looking back at Chan.

“Thank you. It means a lot.”

Chan smiled warmly at him, reaching for his hands. Felix held out his hand and Chan immediately grabbed it, caressing his knuckles with his thumb, squeezing it once before letting go.

“I’m only being honest” Chan replied and after that, they resumed eating, light conversation flowing between them.

“I literally can’t accept that” Chan complained as they stood in front of the counter, ready to pay.

“I asked you out, I pay” Felix said, turning to face the worker before adding, “I’ll pay for the both of us.”

Felix’s smile was so bright and beautiful that Chan suddenly didn’t feel the need to fight anymore. If paying made Felix so happy, he’d gladly let him pay then.

“Next time I’m paying” Chan muttered after Felix thanked the worker and they started making their way out of the restaurant.

“For that to happen, you’ll have to take me out” Felix teased and Chan chuckled.

“That’s barely a challenge. Just you wait, I’ll take you out on the most romantic date ever.”

“I’ll believe it when I see it.”

“You’re impossible,” Chan huffed, laughing.

In the car, Felix texted Jeongin to see how it was going with Jaemin. He and Seungmin had put him to sleep, a bit later than usual, but with Seungmin’s stories he’d fallen asleep quickly.

The ride home didn’t last very long and soon enough, Chan was parked in front of Felix’s building. They both got off the car, Chan insisting on accompanying Felix to the entrance. They’re standing face to face, both red in the face.

“I had a great time today. Thank you” Chan said.

“I did too,” Felix softly replied.

A comfortable silence took place before Chan spoke again.

“I really want to kiss you right now but it doesn’t seem appropriate for a first date" Chan said before leaning in and leaving a chaste kiss on the corner of Felix's mouth, their lips barely brushing before leaning back. 

"That's so cruel of you, hyung," Felix complains, pouting.

"Can't give all of me away at once now, can I?" Chan said, making Felix chuckle.

"I hate that you're right. "

"Have a good night, Felix."

"Good night, Chan” Felix replied and Chan leaned in again, leaving a kiss on Felix’s forehead this time.

He brightly smiled, waiting for Felix to get inside before jogging back to his car. As he started the engine, he wondered how he’ll be able to sleep tonight.

Chapter Text

When Chan entered his apartment, he was shocked to see Minho and Jisung sitting on his couch, a documentary about penguins playing on his TV and fried chicken boxes on the table.

“Oh, hey” Minho greeted him, briefly looking at him before turning back to the TV.

“How do you get inside all the time?” Chan asked, closing the door behind him and toeing his shoes off.

“No matter how many times you change it, your code is always something obvious, Chan. Even Jisung was able to guess it this time.”

“Your first day as a teacher is super cute but also super easy to get for someone who knows you” Jisung said, his gaze fixed on the TV.

“What are you even doing here, anyway? Don’t you have a TV at home?” Chan asked, plopping down on the couch.

“We wanted to know how your date went but we got bored waiting for you,” Jisung explained without looking at Chan.

“There’s only 20 minutes left so you can go freshen up and come back” Minho suggested and Chan nodded, doing as he was told.

As he got under the shower, Chan couldn’t help but relive in fast-forward the whole evening. He also tried to sort out what he could or couldn’t tell his friends. Any personal matter about Felix was off-limits, he wasn’t about to tell Minho and Jisung anything about how Jaemin came into Felix’s life. He figured he could still tell them about Felix’s financial situation and his bakery. Though they would surely ask about the date first and foremost.

When he came out of the shower, dressed comfortably, he plopped back down next to his friends.

“So, how was it?” Minho asked as he handed a plate full of regular fried chicken to Jisung.

“It was… perfect,” Chan replied, sighing in almost delight.

“That’s pretty good for a first date,” Jisung said, his mouth full.

“What did you do? What did you talk about?” Minho asked, a plate of spicy chicken in his own hands.

“Well, I first went to pick him up. He doesn’t live far from here actually but he’s like, filthy rich. I didn’t even know there was such a luxurious neighbourhood so close. Anyway, we drove to a traditional korean restaurant-”

“What do you mean you drove?” Minho asked. “Don’t tell me you made him ride in your car.”

“Felix actually liked my car!” Chan replied, reproachfully. “Anyway, we sat down and I asked him what he had told Jaemin about tonight. He told me he had told him he was going out with a friend. And that’s when I kinda fucked up.”

“Not even 5 minutes into the date! That’s a record” Minho snickered.

“Shut up. I only asked a simple question but it sounded kinda bad. I asked him if it happened often. But I immediately apologised and explained that I meant to know when  his last date was. He told me it’s been a long time but that Jaemin had already seen him go out alone. He asked me the same thing and I told him about Jiyeon.”

“Fuck, I’m still sorry about that” Minho said, embarrassed.

“Honey, it wasn’t your fault,” Jisung said, comforting his boyfriend.

“He’s right, Min. I’m over it, it wasn’t anything serious anyway. But that’s when I embarrassed myself, once more.”

“Tell me it’s the last time, please” Jisung said, chuckling and Chan nodded.

“It’s not that bad, actually. I just decided to be honest about what I was looking for from now on. Something serious, in the long run. Then, I remembered that it was our first date and that I wasn’t supposed to scare him off. But he laughed and told me it was a bit too soon to ask him to marry me” Chan said, smiling at the fresh memory. “He then told me that he didn’t want just a fling with me, that he wanted a full long-term relationship too.”

“Hyunjin and I told you, didn’t we?” Jisung exclaimed, triumphant as Minho filled a glass with coke before handing it to him.

“Still, it’s better to hear it from him, don’t you think?” Chan teased and Jisung stuck his tongue out at him before taking a big sip of his drink.

“That’s it?” Minho asked.

“Well, we talked about our jobs and that’s how he told me he was well-off financially. He inherited a lot from his grandmother and that’s how he was able to open his bakery and meet Jaemin’s needs when he was younger. He told me that his parents helped him a lot when Jaemin was a baby and that now his friends help him. He had actually left Jaemin with Jeongin, we saw him at the bakery that day.”

“Oh, yeah, I remember. He was late for his date” Jisung said.

“I bet you didn’t kiss him,” Minho said, “right?”

“I did not. I should keep him wanting more, am I right?” Chan replied, winking.

“Please, let’s not think about our first date” Jisung whined, hiding his face behind his hands.

“Baby, you were the cutest. You don’t know how hard it was not to kiss you back then. But it was worth it, wasn’t it?” Minho sweetly said and Jisung nodded, his face red.

“Well, now that I filled you in, you can go back home!” Chan said, getting up and starting to clean the little mess his friends had made.

“We’ll go, we’ll go,” Minho reluctantly said. “Let me just use the bathroom.”

“Hyung, there’s more to it, right?” Jisung asked Chan when Minho got out of ear reach.

“I can’t tell you more, sorry” Chan answered, unapologetic.

“It’s not your business to share, I get it” Jisung said, nodding in understanding, a soft smile on his face. “I’m glad you had a great time.”

“Thanks, Jisung.”

They both smiled at each other and Minho came back, grabbing Jisung, wishing a good night to Chan and quietly closing the door behind them.

Chan was ready to go to bed when his phone went off. He unlocked it and saw texts from Felix.

Thank you for tonight, Chan.

Good night <3

Chan smiled and immediately replied.

Good night, Felix <3

On Monday, Chan was still floating about his date with Felix. They didn’t text much on Sunday but Chan figured he was busy with Jaemin.

“Hey, hyung!” Hyunjin chirped, a wide wmile on his face as he greeted Chan.

“Morning, Hyunjin,” Chan replied, equally cheerful.

“I heard your date went great?” Hyunin teased, winking.

“It did, yeah. But I’m sure you already heard all about it” Chan said, making it clear that he wouldn’t say anything more to his friend.

“You’re really no fun!” Hyunjin complained. “I wanna have your input too!”

“I had a very great time with Felix, that’s all you need to know.”

Sighing in annoyance, Hyunijn went to stand in front of his own classroom, getting ready to welcome his students. Chan did the same, a little smile on his lips.

“Hi, Channie!” a little girl chirped a few minutes later as she entered the classroom.

“Good morning, Chaeyoung” he replied, equally as cheerful.

Chan cheerfully replied to every single one of the kids that greeted him, so happy he almost felt dizzy. When he recognised Felix, his heart burst inside his chest and butterflies erupted in his belly. He was so gone for this man.

“Good morning, Channie!” Jaemin exclaimed, hugging Chan’s legs before kissing his father on the cheek and running inside the classroom.

“Hey, hyung,” Felix said.

“Hi, Felix,” Chan replied.

They were both wearing a wide smile and a light blush on their cheeks.

“I’m sorry I didn’t text you much,” Felix apologised, looking slightly embarrassed.

“It’s fine, I figured you were busy. I didn’t wanna bother you so I didn’t text either” Chan confessed.

“You would never bother me. Jaemin was a handful though, but I could tell you about it tonight?”

“Tonight?”

“Yeah. I’ll come pick Jaemin up and then you could come with us to the bakery?” Felix offered, sheepish.

“Sure, I’d love that” Chan replied, unable to control his voice because of how delighted he was.

“Great!” Felix said, suddenly looking more confident. “See you later, then!”

“Later, Felix” Chan said and watched Felix leave for a few seconds before making eye contact with Hyunjin and entering his classroom.

“Okay, guys, did you have a good week-end?” he asked excitedly.

“Yes, yes!” A few kids answered.

“What about Channie?” Others asked.

“I had a great week-end, thank you for asking,” he fondly replied, making the kids squeal in delight. “I would like to do something we haven’t done in a while, are you ready?”

All the kids exclaimed yes and nodded eagerly. 

“Right, calm down, guys,” Chan said, giggling. “I want to ask you a question first. What is family?”

Somi, Chaemin and Hyebin all raised their hands.

“Yes, Hyebin?”

“Family is me, mommy, daddy and my dog Sunny.”

“That’s great. What about you Chaemin?”

“Family is daddy, mommy and my hyung!”

“Do you all agree?” 

Everyone nodded and Chan was about to go on and he noticed Jaemin had raised his hand. Jaemin rarely participated during the talks unless he was asked to so Chan didn’t hesitate to let him talk.

“Yes, Jaemin?”

“Family can also be friends, right?” he asked, his voice just loud enough for everyone to hear him but trembling slightly. Not wanting to make him more uncomfortable, Chan warmly smiled and nodded.

“Of course. My family consists of my mommy and daddy but also my friends” Chan stated and almost everyone looked at him in awe, their little mouths forming an ‘o’.

“What do you mean?” Somi asked.

“There’s the family that you were born in with your mommy and daddy and siblings and

 pets. To that family, you can choose to add your friends too. I have friends I consider my family because I’ve known them for a long time and I love them a lot. Do you understand?” Chan asked and all the kids nodded. “Right. Now, I want you to grab your coloured pencils and draw your family. Alright?”

Everyone exclaimed positively and got started. Usually, Chan would also do the activity but this time he chose to just sit at his desk and silently supervise the kids. They were all quietly chatting, laughing together, some sharing their pencils. His eyes unconsciously drifted to Jaemin who was smiling with Chaemin. Chan was happy that he had willingly participated for once and he liked seeing him act more like his real self. Before he dwelled too much on that, Chan decided to walk around the class, curious about the children’s drawings.

“Wow, Junsu, your drawing is really pretty! Who did you draw?” Chan asked, crouching next to the kid.

“I draw my mommy, my daddy and my best friend Yunho. He’s in Hannie’s class!” Junsu excitedly replied.

“That’s very good, Junsu” Chan said, ruffling his hair.

“Channie! See my drawing please!” Chanmi exclaimed, waving her hand.

“So, who do we have here? I think I see your two mommies and what’s that?” Chan asked, pointing to a figure next to the drawing of Chanmi’s mothers.

“That’s Fluffy, my bunny! And I want to draw my baby brother but I don’t know how to draw a baby” Chanmi said, pouting.

“You can just draw a little heart or a star for your brother. It’s okay if you don’t know how to draw him” Chan replied, smiling warmly at the little girl and she smiled again, drawing a pink heart next to Fluffy.

Chan kept on walking around, looking at the kids’ drawings, purposely saving Jaemin as last.

“Hey, Jaemin” Chan softly began, crouching next to boy. “What do we have here?”

“I draw my appa, uncle Binnie, uncle Innie and uncle Minnie. I also draw Chaemin because he is my best friend!” Jaemin explained, smiling brightly.

“Who’s the last one?” Chan asked, pointing to a larger figure next to Felix.

“That’s you!”

“Me?” Chan asked, air leaving his lungs.

“Yes! Because you’re my friend too, right? And I love you lots so you’re in my family too” Jaemin said, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

“That’s… That’s so nice of you, Jaemin. Thank you” Chan said, almost tearing up.

Just then, the bell rang, signalling it was time for recess. All the kids rushed out of the classroom, ready to play with their friends. Chan took one last look at Jaemin’s drawing and couldn’t help but notice that the drawing version of himself was holding the hand of drawing-Felix.

“See you tomorrow, Jooyeon!” Chan said, releasing the little boy from the embrace he always asked for before going back home.

“Channie?” Jaemin asked, tugging on the hem of Chan’s sweater.

“Yes, little one?”

“Can I take the drawing of the family home? I wanna show appa.”

“Sure you can. Go grab it.”

Chan carefully watched Jaemin as he rushed back inside the classroom, to his desk and back to him.

“I’m going to grab my things, you’re once again the last one” Chan said, giggling.

He was locking the door when Felix arrived.

“Sorry, I’m so late! The shop’s been busy today” Felix apologised, lifting Jaemin up.

“Appa, we’re going to the bakery?” Jaemin asked.

“Yes, buddy, I have to work some more. But then we’ll go home, promise.”

“Is it okay if I come with you? I’m kinda craving a croissant” Chan said and Felix nodded.

“Of course. Though it might feel a bit cramped inside” Felix replied, giggling nervously as they walked out the gates.

Jaemin was half-done telling his dad about his day when they arrived at the bakery.

“I’m here!” Felix exclaimed as he pushed the door of the bakery open.

Unlike last time, there were a lot of people queuing up at the counter and Jeongin looked in a rush.

“Sorry, I gotta help Innie. Be right back” Felix said, gently putting Jaemin down and smiling apologetically to Chan.

“Come here, little one, let’s sit down over there” Chan said, extending his hand to Jaemin who took it before leading him to one of the little tables that were in the corner of the little shop.

“There’s a lot of people, Channie,” Jaemin almost whispered when they sat down. Chan’s heart broke at the words and he grabbed Jaemin’s hand on the table.

“Do you wanna see pictures of my dog?” Chan tried and he was happy to see Jaemin’s face light up.

“Channie! She’s so pretty!” Jaemin exclaimed, scooting closer to Chan so he could see the pictures clearer.

“Her name is Berry and she lives with my parents back home.”

“Berry?” Jaemin asked and Chan was surprised to hear him have such a good english accent and for it to sound a bit like his own - australian.

“That’s it. But you have a good accent little one, how come?” he asked, unable to help himself.

“Appa speaks English and he’s teaching me! My grandma and grandpa live in Australia so appa wants me to know English too” Jaemin explained, unable to take his eyes off the phone.

Chan felt his heart stop. He couldn’t believe it. Felix was Australian too, just like him. That sounded too good to be true, it had to be a joke. Looking at Felix, his freckles seemed to stand out more than ever, like a reminder of the Australian sun. Just then, their eyes met and Felix smiled at him. Chan couldn’t believe it. Was Felix really his fate?

Chapter Text

“Go, hyung, it’s fine. I can handle the rest by myself, don’t worry” Jeongin said, swiftly pushing Felix towards the door.

The bakery had been calm for the last half an hour but Felix was nervous about letting Jeongin close the shop.

“If you have any issue, you call me, okay?” Felix said, walking backwards toward the door.

“Hyung, you’ve trained me the best you could and it’s not the first time I’ll be closing the shop. Relax” Jeongin replied, rolling his eyes but fondness still evident on his face.

“You’re right. See you tomorrow.”

Jeongin nodded him off, waving bye to Chan and Jaemin and they were all out the door, leaving Jeongin inside.

“Well, that was kinda hectic for a minute,” Chan said, giggling. 

Felix looked quite exhausted and Jaemin was still full of energy, having sat down with Chan, looking at pictures of Berry and Chan telling him stories about her.

“Yeah, it was. That’s usually how it is and I always feel a little bit guilty leaving Jeongin alone when I go fetch Jaemin from school. But I don’t really have another choice.”

Chan hummed in understanding and stared at Felix. That was usually when they’d part, each going their own way. But Chan had been wanting to walk Felix home the other day and now was his chance. They had gone on one date together so they were close enough to walk home together, right?

“Well-” “So-” they both started at the same time. Giggling, Felix gestured for Chan to talk first.

“Um, well, I was wondering if it’d be alright for me to walk you and Jaemin home? Or drive you if you’d rather” he asked, hesitant and a little embarrassed. Felix laughed and his heart leapt in his chest.

“I was going to suggest the same thing, actually” Felix said, his cheeks tinting pink. “And, I’d rather walk to be honest” he added, subtly gesturing to Jaemin who looked like he could pull an all-nighter all by himself. Chan understood and laughed, extending his arm forward.

“Lead the way, then.”

“Channie is coming home with us?” Jaemin asked, his voice way too loud for how tired Felix was. Sensing he wouldn’t have the energy to answer, Chan came to his rescue.

“I’m only coming with you to the door, little one. Then I’ll have to go to my own home.”

“Oh, okay, Channie,” Jaemin said, a little disappointed. “But you’ll come play with me next time, right?”

He sounded so hopeful, Chan turned to Felix, who smiled.

“I guess that could be arranged.” 

“Yay!” Jaemin said, jumping a few steps ahead the two adults, allowing them to exchange a smile.

“Why are you smiling?” Chan asked, a little teasing.

“Well, I have a big, strong man walking me home so, I win” Felix cheekily answered.

“I have the prettiest man in the world next to me so I think I win, actually,” Chan replied, pride filling his chest at the light blush on Felix’s face.

“Appa! I want to win too!” Jaemin exclaimed, clinging to his dad’s legs.

“You win for being the cutest munchkin in the world, buddy” Felix answered, ruffling his son’s hair who squealed in delight.

The remainder of the walk was spent in mostly silence and Jaemin’s happy little noises. Too soon for Chan’s liking, they were standing in front of Felix’s fancy building.

“I guess that’s where I leave you” Chan began, feeling somewhat sheepish. 

“Maybe you could come up for a coffee or something?” Felix asked, his voice low enough that only Chan could hear it. 

“That’s very tempting but I have to get back to my car,” Chan replied, genuinely apologetic. “Next time though, promise.”

“I’ll hold you to that,” Felix said, smirking.

“Bye bye Channie!” Jaemin exclaimed, hugging Chan’s legs. Chan unwrapped his little arms and crouched to his height, embracing him fully.

“Good night, little one. Be a good boy and listen to your appa, okay?” 

“I’m a good boy! Right, appa?” Jaemin asked, turning to his dad.

“Of course, bud. The best boy” Felix assured, the warmest smile on his face.

“I gotta go now but we’ll see each other tomorrow” Chan said, letting Jaemin go and smiling at Felix. “See you, Felix.”

“See you, Chan.”

After seeing the little family going inside the building, Chan walked back to his car, his heart both light and heavy. Light that he could spend more time with Felix and Jaemin but heavy that it wasn’t nearly enough. It should have scared him that he already felt so attached to them but after discovering that Felix was also from Australia, he couldn’t help but feel like it was all fate.

Once home, Chan received a text from Felix.

Hey

Jaemin just showed me

A drawing

Of his family

Did you know

That you’re in it

Too ?

Chan chuckled at Felix’s peculiar way of texting before replying.

Yeah I saw that

He told me he drew me because I’m his friend

Felix immediately replied.

You and I

Are holding

Hands

Yeah

Do you think he knows something?

I can’t be

Sure but

He does talk

A lot about

You

Seems like he

Got some kinda

Crush

hehe

Well, he’s surely got me wrapped around his finger haha

What about

Me

?

You do too, darling

You must be tired, you should go to sleep

Hmm

I’m letting

You off

The hook

This time

Good night <3

Good night <3

The following days went by as usual. Felix would drop Jaemin at school, flirt with Chan before going to work and more often than not, Chan would walk them home at the end of the day. Jaemin would sulk a little bit that Chan wouldn’t go up with them but quickly forget it as Felix would promise him something else.

“So, when are you going on a second date?” Minho asked Chan as they were having a drink on Minho’s couch.

It was Saturday and Minho had invited Chan over for a change. 

“I don’t know. I wanted to ask him about it yesterday but Jaemin is always around and I feel like sending him a text about it just isn’t it” Chan replied, sipping on his beer.

“Is it a problem if Jaemin knows you’re seeing each other?” Jisung asked as he came back from the kitchen with snacks.

“Felix doesn’t want to tell him just yet. I also don’t think it’s the right time. I think both Felix and I need to prepare.”

“But you said he was serious about it,” Minho interjected. “If you’re both serious about your relationship, telling his son earlier rather than later is the way to go. When I met Jisung, I brought him to meet my parents as soon as I knew we were going to be together for life.”

“Jagi, you brought me to meet your parents two weeks after you asked me to be your boyfriend,” Jisung said, chuckling.

“Yeah but I waited a whole six months before asking you to be my boyfriend.”

“The longest six months of my whole life,” Chan muttered.

“But we’re not talking about us right now. Look, maybe Sungie can help you, right jagi?” Minho asked as Jisung sat on his lap.

“Sure. I could take care of your kids while you talk to Felix. In the name of love, of course.”

“Not in the name of our friendship?” Chan asked, chuckling.

“Always love” Jisung said, a hand over his heart, the theatrics making Chan and Minho laugh.

On Monday, all the kids had already left but Jaemin. Felix had texted Chan earlier, telling him he’d be late. When he finally arrived, Chan was reminded of that first day, weeks ago. He looked less panicked now, probably because he knew the teacher wouldn’t be mad at him for being late. Chan lightly chuckled to himself and felt something tugging at the hem of his shirt. Looking down, he saw that Jaemin had come out to stand next to him.

“Channie? Wass funny?” he asked, his words a bit slurred from sleepiness. Chan had made the kids play cops and robbers earlier.

“Nothing, little one. But look, your appa is here” Chan said and as Jaemin turned his head, Felix reached them.

“Hey, buddy, sorry I’m late” Felix said, picking his son up, looking apologetically at Chan. “Hi, hyung.”

“Hey, Felix. Do you have some time? Um, there’s something I’d like to talk to you about” Chan began, quite embarrassed. He saw Jisung approaching them behind Felix.

“Hi, Felix. How are you?” Jisung asked, making Felix turn around.

“Hey, Jisung. I’m fine thanks” Felix said, turning back to Chan. “I have a couple of minutes, yes” he added, looking at Jaemin who was dozing off on his shoulder. “Jaemin looks very tired though…”

“I can take care of him if you need?” Jisung asked, unable to contain his excitement. Felix looked curiously at him, then back at Chan who was blushing. Understanding flashed in his eyes and he lightly shook Jaemin up.

“Hey, buddy. How about you go with Jisung for a moment while Chan and I talk about grown-up stuff?” he softly asked his son who nodded, muttering something that sounded like ‘Jisungie’.

Jaemin extended his arms towards Jisung who cooed at him as he took him from Felix arms. They walked away and Felix turned back to Chan.

“So? What is it about?” he asked, his angelic smile filling Chan’s stomach with butterflies.

“Well. I really enjoyed our date the other week and I was thinking it was time for our second date. I’m taking you out though this time” Chan replied, confidence coming to him with each word he spoke. He was relieved he hadn’t stuttered.

“Oooh! Yes, of course!” Felix exclaimed, quiet but visibly ecstatic. “When?”

“I was thinking this Saturday? For lunch this time.”

“Sure. Where are you taking me?”

“That’s a secret. But be sure to dress comfortably and something that doesn’t get dirty easily” Chan said, winking at Felix.

“Noted,” Felix said, blushing. He took a glance at his watch. “I gotta go now, Jeongin must be waiting.”

“Do you want me to walk with you?” Chan asked.

“I think I’ll be alright today. Jaemin is super sleepy and you haven’t tidied your classroom yet” Felix said, glancing inside the classroom. “But tomorrow for sure” he added. He looked at Jaemin who wasn’t facing them before leaning in and leaving a soft peck on Chan’s cheek. “See you tomorrow, hyung.”

He then walked to Jisung, thanked him and picked his son up before walking away, one last glance at Chan, a wide smile on his face.

“So? Was that peck a yes for your date?” Jisung asked, overexcited.

“Yes. Yes he agreed. We’re going out for lunch this Saturday” Chan replied, dazed.

“Man, you’re so down bad” Jisung said, giggling.

“I am. I so am” Chan said, a wide smile spreading on his face.

Chapter Text

“I’m happy to see your car again” Felix said, beaming as he approached Chan who was leaning on his car.

“Don’t make fun of my car” Chan said, almost pouting.

“I’m not! I’m just excited to see you drive again. You look hot when you drive” Felix said as Chan opened the passenger door.

“Only when I drive?” Chan teased and Felix rolled his eyes.

“Stop fishing for compliments and tell me where you’re taking me already” Felix replied, amused.

Chan closed the door and rounded the car before getting in the driver seat.

“Well, if you must know, we’re going to eat Chinese this time,” Chan said as he started the engine.

“Ooh! It’s been so long since I’ve eaten Chinese!” Felix exclaimed, excited. “Is it far? I’m kinda hungry” he added as his stomach grumbled, right on cue.

“Not too far” Chan said and Felix nodded. “How’s Jaemin?”

“He’s alright. He wanted to spend the day with Soyeon, and Changbin was so excited that you were taking me on a date that he immediately agreed to take him for the day.”

“Your friends are as invested in our business as mine,” Chan said chuckling and the whole ride to the restaurant, they talked about their nosey friends. 

When they arrived, Chan hurried to open Felix’s door, which amused the latter a lot. Chan then extended his arm for Felix to take, which he did while blushing deeply. Chan led the way to the restaurant’s entrance and opened the door for Felix to enter first. When the waiter showed them the way to their table, Chan pulled the chair for Felix, making him laugh.

“You’re being a real gentleman, that’s cute” Felix said, a light blush on his cheeks.

“I did promise you a romantic date,” Chan said as he sat down. “Dinner would have been more romantic but I have to admit I wanted to spend more time with you.”

“I wanted to spend more time with you too. Our last date was really great but I wanted it to last longer. It’s just, with Jaemin…” Felix trailed off and Chan grabbed his hand over the table.

“Hey. Your son is your priority, I get that. I wouldn’t want you to put anything or anyone over Jaemin. If Changbin called right now for you to get back to Jaemin, I wouldn’t get mad, I’d drive you straight back to him, no questions asked. Is that clear?” Chan asked, his voice soft and genuine.

“Very clear,” Felix answered, his eyes slightly teary. “Thank you.”

“No problem at all, darling” Chan answered and the waiter came with their menus.

“How’s your spice tolerance Felix?” Chan asked as they both scanned the menu.

“Not very high. I always order the least spicy thing they have and even then I have to order at least five coconut milks to get through it” Felix answered, chuckling. “How about you?”

“My spice tolerance is non-existent. Though I feel like dying every time, I weirdly like to eat spicy food,” Chan replied, chuckling. “I think I’m going to get the milk hot pot,” he added, quickly scanning over the menu one last time  before setting it down.

“Hmm, there’s a lot of options…” Felix said, carefully reading the menu. “Do you have a rec?”

“I think a wonton soup would be a good deal,” Chan replied after rapidly scanning the menu one more time.

“Okay, then I’m getting that,” Felix said, smiling warmly at Chan.

Right on cue, the waiter came back. They gave their orders and Chan asked for two coconut milks, which made Felix smile even wider.

Chan thought about what he had learned from Jaemin the last time they saw each other and thought it would be a good time to ask Felix about it.

"The other day when the bakery was very busy, Jaemin was uncomfortable so I decided to show him pics of my dog to distract him" Chan began, as the waiter walked away. "He then let slip that your parents are Australian."

"Oh my god, I wanted to tell you about it the moment Hyunjin told me you were Australian too but I didn’t know how. It never came up during our first date and neither did it later and I just kinda... forgot about it?" Felix replied, unsure, worried he had hurt Chan’s feelings.

"That's alright. But I'd love to know more about you, even if you have to randomly change topics," Chan said, voice soft but curious.

So, they spent the dinner talking about where they were from in Australia, talking about the best beaches, the cheapest places to eat, reminiscing about what they used to do when they were teens. They found out they had practically lived in the same place, probably crossing paths but never seeing each other. It made Chan think that maybe they were meant to be, there were too many coincidences for them to be just coincidences and not fate. But he wouldn’t voice those thoughts yet, even though he already cared a lot more for Felix than he’d let himself admit, he didn’t want to take any mindless chances.

“What do you wanna do now?” Chan asked as they stepped out of the restaurant, Chan having paid for them both, as promised.

“I don’t know…” Felix started in English, making Chan’s heart skip a beat. His thick accent reminded him of home, warming up his heart. “What do you think about going to a coin noraebang?”

“Sure, why not? I know of a place I used to visit a lot with Minho when we were in uni” Chan said, leading the way back to his car. “It’s not too far and small, I think you’ll like it.”

When they arrived, an old man was sitting at the counter, doing crossword puzzles. He lifted his head, smiled at them and gestured to a door with ‘ROOM 03’ written on it. When Chan pushed the door open, he was surprised to see that nothing had changed. Still the same little TV screen, the same remote and accessories so they could enjoy themselves properly.

“It’s pretty cool here. Not quite soundproof but still, I like it” Felix said, chuckling as  a voice crack coming from another room filled the rather silent place.

“What do you wanna sing, Felix?” Chan asked, taking the remote and starting to scan through the latest popular songs.

“I’d like to try The Song by Zion T” Felix said, smiling bashfully.

“Okay” Chan replied, slightly surprised but still finding him endearing.

“What is it?” Felix asked, sounding a bit insecure.

“Nothing, I haven’t heard this song in so long, that’s all” Chan immediately answered. He took one of Felix’s hands, intent on reassuring him. “You can sing whatever you want, I won’t judge. I can even sing it with you if you want.”

“I wouldn’t mind that. There’s this part in the middle, I don’t know it well” Felix said, his smile growing wider when Chan’s thumb caressed the back of his hand.

“I’ll cover for you, don’t worry” Chan said and pressed play on the remote.

They sang songs after songs, more or less hyped, more or less difficult to sing until they decided it was time for one last song.

“Have you watched La La Land?” Felix asked.

“You wanna sing City Of Stars?” Chan asked back, excited. He loved the movie and that song was one of his favourites.

“Together, yes” Felix answered, taking the remote and searching for the song. “Just the first verse, okay?”

“That’s fine” Chan said and Felix pressed play. “You begin.”

From the first song, Chan had discovered that Felix’s deep voice could become higher or even deeper when he sang, he had full control of his voice. He loved hearing him sing, it felt like discovering another part of him. But when he started singing City Of Stars, a shiver went through his body and he felt warmth growing in his chest. Felix’s voice was so deep but so sweet and warm and the way he looked at him while singing had his mind going fuzzy. God, he liked him so much already. When his turn came to sing, he couldn’t tear his gaze from Felix, both looking at each other, sharing little smiles. Unable to hold back anymore, Chan reached out to grab Felix’s hand and the other lightly squeezed it to show he appreciated the touch.

“You have such a beautiful voice, Felix,” Chan told him as they stepped out of the noraebang.

“Thanks. I’m not that great of a singer but I do sing for Jaemin once in a while. But I think he prefers Innie’s voice to mine” Felix said, chuckling.

“You’re a good singer, Felix. And if Jaemin doesn’t wanna hear you sing, I would” Chan replied, half joking and half honest.

“Oh, stop it, will you?” Felix said, chuckling as his cheeks went rosy. “What are we doing now?”

“I wanted to bring you to the arcades where I used to spend all my money in uni.”

“Are we taking some kind of trip down your memory line?” Felix asked, teasing.

“I don’t know, I wanted to share a part of me with you I guess. A part you don’t know” Chan answered, quite sheepish.

“I like that. I wanna know everything about you” Felix casually said, not knowing how giddy it made Chan feel.

“Let’s go then. We can walk there, it’s not far” Chan said, instinctively holding Felix’s hand.

“Getting bold already?” Felix teased, a devilish glint in his eyes.

“I’m sorry-” Chan began, loosening his grip on Felix’s hand just for the latter to secure it.

“I wasn’t complaining. I love it when you act on instinct, it makes me feel safe and cared for” Felix explained, making Chan blush.

“God, you’re so adorable” Chan replied, squeezing Felix’s hand and pulling him slightly closer to him.

They walked in relative silence to the arcades and the moment they arrived, their competitive sides awoke. Felix was a total hurricane when he played and Chan found himself loving this side of him. It made him feel like he was a teenager all over again but without the bad things that come with it. He was a teen in an adult body and with adult knowledge about life. He was confident in himself and in what he was feeling, just how much he liked Felix.

“I like you so freaking much” he said as they were both seated, drinking slushies after Felix had beaten Chan’s ass in a dancing game.

Felix flushed at his words and Chan bowed his head down, embarrassed but not wanting to look like a total loser to Felix.

“I like you a lot too, Chris,” Felix replied, making Chan’s heart skip a beat. He was so far gone.

“Would you like to go home with me?” Chan asked, out of the blue

Felix stared at him for a few seconds, enough for Chan to flush in embarrassment.

“I-I’m sorry, I don’t know what came over me-” he began, turning into a stuttering and rambling mess.

“It’s fine, hyung” Felix said, taking Chan’s hand in his. “I’d really like it. Let’s go” he said, pulling Chan up.

“Are you sure? We haven’t eaten dinner yet” Chan said, happy but still making sure.

“It’s a bit early for dinner and we can just order anyway, right?” Felix replied, turning to Chan with a dazzling smile. “Come on now, your car is waiting!” he added, speeding his pace up.

On the ride home, they talked about what they had done today, how much fun they had at the arcades and Felix kept reminding Chan that he won at almost every game. Chan kept on telling him that he had been going easy on him but Felix didn’t believe it. ‘Whatever helps you sleep at night, princess’ Chan ended up saying, making Felix blush and finally be quiet.

“Don’t mind the mess, please” Chan said as he unlocked the door to his apartment.

“No worries,” Felix said and smiled warmly at Chan.

They entered, took their shoes off and Chan put his slippers on before handing new, unused slippers to Felix.

“You know, I was surprised you lived so close to me” Felix said, stepping inside the living room. “Wow, you’ve got a nice living room.”

Chan’s living room was just a big couch with an equally big TV he had bought second-hand. He also had a little beanbag on the side and a coffee table.

“Thanks. It’s not much, most of the furniture in the house was chosen by Minho, I have no credit” Chan replied, chuckling.

“Well, Minho’s got taste. I mean, he is going to marry Jisung” Felix said, giggling.

“I actually introduced them, you know? I think he wanted to repay me so I let him choose a couple of things.”

“Didn’t know you were a match-maker, Chris” Felix teased, winking at Chan.

“I’m not,” Chan replied, laughing. “I just knew they would click, the second I met Jisung I knew he was Minho’s type.”

“What’s Minho’s type?” Felix asked as he sat on the couch.

“Someone sweet like Jisung. Someone he’ll need to take care of, who’s high maintenance, who’s clingy but not too clingy, who likes anime. Jisung is all that and more, with a killer body. Wide shoulders and a thin waist, making Minho crazy every single day” Chan explained, sitting on the floor, facing Felix.

“Damn, you know a lot about Minho. I mean I know as much about Changbin but still, I’m pretty amazed.”

“I’d like to know more about Changbin. I briefly met him not too long ago and he seemed very nice. He treats Hyunjin right.”

“He’s the nicest guy I’ve ever met. I also kind of introduced him and Hyunjin. It was actually more of a coincidence but I still like to get credit for it,” Felix said, chuckling.

“Tell me all about it,” Chan said, leaning back to rest on his hands, getting comfortable.

“Are you sure you wanna know?” Felix asked, a teasing glint in his eyes.

“Of course I do. Why are you asking?” Chan asked, genuinely confused. Had he not been clear about wanting to know everything about Felix?

“You look so hot leaning on your hands, I might not be able to get a single word out” Felix replied, jokingly fanning his face.

Chan laughed out loud, embarrassed but flattered.

“Would you like it better if I sat next to you?” Chan asked, already getting up.

“Come here” Felix said, tapping the space right beside him.

Chan plopped next to Felix, turning his body to him and making their knees touch.

“Tell me” he simply said and Felix smiled.

“I don’t feel like telling you anymore, actually” Felix replied, still teasing.

“Oh, really? What do you feel like doing, then?” Chan asked, leaning closer, using the same teasing tone.

Felix’s eyes went to Chan’s lips before going back up and locking eyes. Chan shuffled closer, taking Felix’s hand.

“You’ll have to make the first move, pretty boy” he whispered and Felix chuckled.

“Haven’t I done enough?”

Chan smirked in the softest way. Felix will be the death of him.

“You’re a menace” Chan said and closed the gap between them.

Felix sighed into the kiss like he’d been waiting for it his whole life - and maybe he had. Chan’s lips felt so soft, so full against his plush and thin ones, he felt so warm and, most importantly, so safe. Chan’s hand that had been holding his seconds ago went to his waist, lightly squeezing once as his other hand went to the back of his head, pushing him just slightly closer to him. He was so gentle, Felix felt valued under his hands. When Chan broke the kiss, he almost whined. Just as he was about to complain about how short it had been, they locked eyes and Chan had never looked hotter than right at this moment, his lips red and his eyes full of want.

This time, Felix grabbed him by the collar and made their lips collide again, with more force and Chan matched his pace and fervour immediately. Now that Felix finally had a taste of those sinful lips, he couldn’t hold back anymore. Chan’s hand on his waist went to his back and next thing he knew, Felix was on his back with Chan on top of him, still kissing him feverishly. That fire wasn’t all consuming, it warmed Felix up inside out and he loved it. He let one of his hands go to Chan’s hair, pushing him closer as he opened his mouth, silently asking for a deeper kiss. He whined when Chan got the message and their tongues met for the first time. He surrendered to Chan right then, letting him explore his mouth as he wished, the slight taste of the raspberry slushie Chan had mixing with the taste of the blueberry one he had.

Chan broke the kiss again and stared at him for a few seconds.

“You look so hot, baby” he said and Felix was shocked by how deep his usually sweet voice was.

“Kiss me more” Felix only replied and there was Chan’s sweet smile before he dived right back.

That kiss was slower, softer, like Chan was afraid he’d hurt him or something. Felix wanted to tell him that he had nothing to worry about but he wanted to keep kissing him so he didn’t say anything and pulled lightly on his hair instead. Chan whined, clearly not in pain and the hand that was on his back went back to his waist, then to his hips and before he knew it, Chan’s hand was under his shirt.

His hand was warm and soft against Felix’s skin but that warm fire that was inside of him suddenly grew and started to consume him. He opened his eyes at once and pushed Chan away with all the force he could muster.

“Stop,” he whispered, sitting up, bringing his knees to his chest and closing his eyes. He felt like a failure, panicking over a single skin on skin contact - and with a man he liked so much! He didn’t want to look at him, to see the disappointment on Chan’s face. 

“Hey, Felix” he heard Chan’s soft voice and felt the couch dip not too far from him. “Can you look at me, please?” he gently asked and Felix opened his eyes.

Disappointment wasn’t what he found on Chan’s face. All he could see was worry and confusion, making him tear up.

“I’m sorry” Felix said, bowing his head so he didn’t have to look at Chan anymore.

"It's fine," Chan said. "Felix, look at me, baby."

Felix looked up, looking guilty and apologetic, his eyes filled with unshed tears.

“You must think I’m such a loser, freaking out in the middle of a make-out session” Felix said, his voice so weak.

"You’re not a loser. We don't have to do anything you don't wanna do or don't feel ready for. I want you, of course I do. But I don't want you to feel forced or pressured to be intimate if you don't want to” Chan replied, a warm hand grabbing his. How could Felix have thought Chan would think any less of him?

"But I do want to. It's just... hard” he replied, a couple tears escaping.

"And I get it. We can just keep on kissing for now. Or we could do something entirely different."

"Kissing is nice," Feix said, his voice thin as he sniffed.

"Come here, baby" Chan said, smiling warmly and pulling Felix closer to him. He connected their lips in a soft kiss, drying Felix’s tears with his thumb.

"Can you keep calling me baby?" Felix asked, his face pink.

"Sure, baby. Whatever you want."

They kept kissing for a bit longer until Felix’s stomach rumbled. He looked so embarrassed but Chan just smiled at him and they decided to order burgers. They cleaned the living room while they waited for their orders and Felix felt so at ease with Chan. Their order came and they ate while watching mukbang shows on Chan’s stupidly big TV. 

“Do you wanna head home?” Chan asked as he threw the trash away.

“I think I should. I kinda miss Jaemin” he sheepishly answered.

“Let’s get you home then.”

The ride to Felix’s was spent in comfortable silence. Chan knew that Felix probably still felt a bit ashamed about what had happened earlier so he didn’t say anything about it. When they arrived, Chan went all the way up with Felix, even if the latter said that it wasn’t necessary.

“I want to” Chan had said, taking Felix’s hand and taking the elevator with him.

“Thank you.”

When they arrived in front of Felix’s door, Felix felt a bit awkward. He knew Chan didn’t feel disappointed but Felix thought he deserved better than a man he couldn’t get intimate with. He turned to him, ready to tell him good night and found Chan already looking at him.

“Is there something on my face?” Felix asked, feeling self-conscious.

“No, no. It’s just-” Chan hesitated for a second before taking a deep breath and continuing, “Do you wanna be my boyfriend?”

Felix stared at him, stunned. Had he heard that right?

“You want me to be your boyfriend?” he asked, almost in disbelief.

“Well, yes,” Chan replied, blushing and rubbing the back of his head. “You don’t have to reply right-”

“You’re not weirded out or disappointed?”

“Why would I be?” Chan asked, calm as ever. He stepped closer to Felix and put a hand on his cheek. “Baby. I know you went through very traumatic things and you should never feel sorry about that. All that matters to me is your well being - and Jaemin’s too. I want you to be my boyfriend, I want to care for you, I want you to feel safe with me.”

“I do. I do feel safe with you and I wanna be your boyfriend too. Though, in my head, we were already dating” Felix replied, slightly blushing about his last words.

“Oh, baby, you’re so sweet,” Chan said. “Now, go inside and rest. You deserve it.”

“You too” Felix replied and Chan smiled.

“I will,” he said and leaned in to kiss Felix one last time. “Good night baby.”

“Good night, Chris.”

Chan waited for Felix to close the door before walking back to the elevator. On the whole ride down and then home, he thought about what he was gonna do about him. What was the best way to support him, to help him overcome the terrible things he went through. And would Felix trust him enough to let him help? Chan could only hope he would.