Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It’s 2 weeks before campus starts.

Popping the trunk of his car and pulling out a few boxes and bags, Taesan slowly heads up the stairs leading to his dormitory building.

Feeling the warm breeze on his skin, it’s all starting to feel real. Moving out of his parents house and starting the university chapter of his life, he can’t help but feel a mixture of anxiety and excitement.

Shivering a bit, he thinks if he should have opted for a hoodie rather than trying to give a cool first impression in his short-sleeve graphic band T-shirt.

Entering the old-looking brick building, he places some of his luggage on the ground, staring at the building's map to find his assigned room. From the corner of his eye, he spots a figure entering the building; Taesan's face lights up, and his nerves are calmed a bit.

“Jaehyun!” Taesan exclaims; he walks to wrap Jaehyun into a one-armed hug, happy to see his friend. Jaehyun only got a backpack slung over his shoulder, making Taesan raise an eyebrow at him.

“Surely that’s not all you brought,” Taesan teases him.

“Geez, it’s nice to see you too.” Jaehyun lets off a weak laugh. “And unlike you, I actually got here an hour ago, so my stuff is all up there already,” he says sassily, pouting and crossing his arms, twisting his body in protest to Taesan’s accusation.

Taesan smiles at their banter; he picks up some of his stuff, Jaehyun helping him out by picking up two of his boxes too.

“Are you looking for brownie points from me now? What do you want? Taesan says, tilting his head slightly at him, walking towards the elevator, and pressing the up arrow.

“What do you mean? I’m just trying to help my most dearest, bestest friend,” Jaehyun says, masking his hidden intentions.

“Hmmm, yeah, for sure, I’ll make sure to tell Sungho I’m the favorite,” Taesan bites back as they get into the elevator and head towards his dorm.

After what felt like ages of unloading his car, they finished getting all Taesan's stuff into his dorm. Jaehyun and Taesan were joined halfway through by Sungho, the trio finally being complete.

Exhausted, they lay sprawled on the couch, heads tossed back. Jaehyun lifted his head to say something.

“Soooo… about those brownie points.” Groaning, Taesan lifts up his head, deadpanning at Jaehyun, “There it is.”

Jaehyun continues ignoring Taesan's comment, “So there’s this club I’ve heard about that’s popular in the area; all the hottest people go, so we have to go.”

“Dude, there’s no way we’re about to go clubbing; it’s already 9pm, and we just finished packing all Taesan’s shit,” Sungho spits out, slapping his hand on his face, fed up with dealing with years of Jaehyun shenanigans.

Looking around, Taesan snagged one of the bigger dorm rooms; it has a small kitchen, a private bathroom, and a sizable living room. Right now it looks small since Taesan brought his whole life with him, including all four of his guitars.

“Come on! We can’t keep being lame! We’re in university now; we have freedom.” Jaehyun complains, frustrated with his friends always being difficult when he comes up with plans.

While Sungho and Jaehyun go back and forth about how their game nights and movie marathons are precious places in his heart and that they’re not ‘lame,’ Taesan thinks about all the times he got FOMO and wanted to be a bit wilder and go out drinking and dancing, being a reckless teen, but never did since his parents wanted him to focus on school.

Plus, his poor mom's heart would be worried sick if she didn’t know what he was doing and where he was; he’s even surprised she was okay with his living across the country, but he guesses she didn’t really have a choice. He loves them dearly, but they were a bit much at times.

Maybe Jaehyun's right; they should take advantage of their newfound freedom.

Taesan sits up right, “You know what, fuck it. Let’s go.” Jaehyun's eyes light up, and he jumps up, pumping his fists in the air, celebrating. Sungho sighs loudly but knowingly. He’d join his best friends in whatever, even if he hates the idea of going to the club right now in his aching state.

-°⛧

The club is a hot scene, and they look even hotter. It’s littered with college students, all partying hard before their courses and stress start. Taesan's nursing a vodka Red Bull as he and Sungho watch Jaehyun ripping it up on the dance floor, his energy only getting more intense as the songs transition.

Sungho’s been eyeing a guy from across the bar in between conversations with Taesan. The man starts making his way towards where they’re leaning against the bar.

“Mind if I steal him?” The guy asks towards Taesan, looking at Sungho, who he can’t get his eyes off of.

The guy has faded pink hair and is about a head shorter than Taesan and even has a cute mole under his left eye. “Please do, you’re doing god’s work,” Taesan replies, earning himself a nice little glare from Sungho. The guy gives him a small nod and leads Sungho to a table in the corner of the bar, not out of sight but in a quieter spot.

Taesans is now standing by himself after offering his friend up to some random guy in a club they haven’t been to in a new city that they’re not familiar with. Shaking the thought from his head, he orders another drink and sips on it as he gets lost in his thoughts, watching his friends having fun, Sungho giggling at whatever joke the guy is telling him, and Jaehyun dancing and singing lyrics loudly with the crowd like his life depended on it.

Sitting alone at the bar, sipping at his drink, he feels a pair of eyes piercing into the side of his face. Turning his head, he makes eye contact with the most handsome man he’s ever seen. Blonde hair that ends just below his ears and soft brown eyes staring back, Taesan starts feeling hot, regretting his choice of wearing tight leather pants.

The man winks at him, causing Taesan's nervous system to hotwire. His ears start tingling, a red blush flushing over them; breaking eye contact, he snaps his head forward, now staring at Jaehyun, trying to distract himself from the man who’s slowly approaching him.

Sipping on his drink, he chokes as the man is standing next to him, leaning with one arm against the bar and his body turned, facing Taesan. Coughing a little, Taesan feels embarrassed; he shouldn’t be acting this pathetic when he’s about to get hit on by the hottest man in the club.

“Are you okay? I didn’t mean to make you choke so early in,” the man giggles a bit, a playful look in his eyes as he examines Taesan’s face. Taesan regains his composure, swirling his chair to look up at the man better.

Choking so early on? Is he out of his mind? Who just says that?

“I’m Leehan.” The man smiles, looking at Taesan. before Taesan can think more deeply. “Taesan,” he replies, looking at Lee Han's face more closely. Fuck, he’s even prettier up close.

“A pretty name for a pretty face,” Leehan says with a tinge of seduction in his voice, eyeing Taesan up and down like he’s a 3-course meal.

Taesan smirks a small bit, “You’re not too bad yourself,” he replies daringly, feeling the liquid courage creeping into his system. Leehan's eyes flicker to Taesan's lips as he smirks. “Oh? Just not too bad? “ Leehan replies in a breathy laugh. Taesan's eyes watch as his lips curl up as he laughs, before Leehan leans in a bit closer. Taesan can feel the warmth radiating off Leehan, feeling intoxicated from more than just the alcohol.

Leehans is so close to him. Taesans on a high right now, getting addicted to the attention from this hot man. ” What? Wanna change my mind?” Taesan teases.

Leehan positions himself to stand directly in front of Taesan, leaning down next to his head, whispering in his ear, “Only if you insist.” The warmth causes Taesan's breath to hitch.

Taesan feels like he’s out of his mind; the man in front of him has him acting so out of control, but he can’t stop. The burning feeling in his stomach is growing hotter the more they flirt back and forth; he knew he’d maybe get a few looks tonight, but this feels more intense than anything he was expecting.

Leehan pulls back to look at Taesan, “Follow me.” Leehan reaches for Taesan’s drink; he chugs the rest, catching a piece of ice in his mouth before walking off.

Glancing at his friends who are having the time of their lives, Taesan decides to follow Leehan upstairs. It’s still pretty busy upstairs, just much more private and relaxed.

Turning around a corner, he feels his body pushed up against the wall. The cold of the wall shocks his nervous system. Leehan has him pinned, one hand holding his wrist while another is flush against the wall next to his waist. They’re so close, their breaths being shared, their hooded eyes pierce into each other. Taesan feels out like he’s suffocating in their heat, Leehan’s hot breath warming up his neck. Leehan inches closer, examining every inch of Taesan’s face like he’s engraving it into his memory. Eyes landing on Taesan’s eyes, he smirks.

“Can I change your mind now?”

Taesan caves in, lifting his head; he closes the gap between them. Leehan moans, leaning into the kiss. Taesan feels his soft lips against his. Leehan's lips moving against his, Leehan's lips slot so perfectly into his. Tilting his head, he feels Leehan's tongue lick against his lip, begging for entrance.

Opening his mouth, the feels leehan slip a small melting ice cube into his mouth. Fuck. The cold liquid was so welcoming in Taesan's mouth. Taesan moans against Leehan's lips. Licking at the ice as it melts, it turns him on so much.

Leehan's hand lets go of Taesan's wrist to pull at his neck, deepening the kiss. His other hand spanning against Taesan's entire stomach. He thinks how good his hands would look manhandling him. Leehan’s hands are so big on Taesan's waist, the warmth seeping into his skin. Muffled wet noises and soft needy moans are all that fill their space, isolating them from the outside world.

Breaking the kiss, Leehan bites on Taesan's bottom lip before moving to kiss his jaw, nibbling and sucking until he reaches his nape. Taesan tosses his head back, his hands tugging at Leehan's hair as he sucks love bites into his skin. Feeling hot, heavy, and constrained, his pants are too tight. His bulge makes itself known against Leehan’s own. Leehan’s licking Taesan's vein, feeling it pulse against his lips; he inhales deeply in Taesan's nape, getting intoxicated by the sweet scent. Leehan’s dick growing harder presses against Taesan further, a moan escaping Taesan's lips.

Leehan can’t hold back anymore.

Opening his mouth wide, his fangs extend, his eyes glowing with a twinge of gold. Grazing his teeth against Taesan's neck, licking at the skin, he inhales Taesan's sweet scent mixed with the earthy cologne he’s sporting. He’s hanging on by a thread. Snapping, he sinks his teeth in. Sweet blood pools into Leehan's mouth. He dives deep into Taesan’s skin; he tastes so fucking good; Leehans has never tasted blood so rich, sweet, and metallic. He can’t get enough.

Taesan’s whole body stiffens, feeling a sharp pain expanding from his neck and spreading to the rest of his limbs.

What the fuck is happening?

He lets out a struggled noise, feeling his skin tear open, like something is creeping down his spine. His whole body is stiff, and he feels like his skin is burning from the inside.

“What the fuck, man!?” Taesan struggles out, his words falling flat.

Then the pain dulls. He starts feeling like he’s floating. “Oh,” Taesan breathes out. His mind blanks as pleasure surges through his veins.

Leehans never tasted blood so addicting; he sucks hard, pulling Taesans impossibly closer. Leehan's grip on his waist and neck tightens, squeezing Taesan closer, melting into each other as he feeds his hunger. The deep and long pulls of blood, moaning as if he’s been starving for years, and Taesan is the first meal he gets his hands on. Leehan’s desperation sends a pool of heat in his gut; he can feel his veins pumping against Leehan’s lips.

Whatever’s happening, he wants more. He needs more.

Grinding against Leehan, they both moan, Leehan breathing out a low and deep moan.
Taesan is a moaning mess at this point, hands tangled in Lee Han's hair, his body feeling heavy, the heat becoming unbearable. His grip on Taesan’s waist is stern and steady, his one hand almost wrapping around Taesan’s whole waist.

Closing his eyes, Taesan starts feeling dizzy.
His limbs feel weak, his legs threatening to give in at any moment.

Leehan’s too busy feeding on Taesan to notice, too taken over by how good Taesan tastes, his hunger too strong. Taesan's eyes go blurry; he feels extremely weak, his body shutting down and going limp. Leehan's fangs detach as Taesan's legs give in. Opening his eyes, he sees Taesan's body lying motionless in his grip. Panic starts kicking in; he examines Taesan's face, finally seeing how pale and drained he looks.

What the fuck did he just do?

-°⛧

Leehan fucked up. He fucked up so bad.

He’s crouched over on the floor, holding Taesan’s limp body in his arms. He’s panicking. He doesn’t know what to do. Placing two fingers under Taesan's jaw, he feels the faint beat of his pulse, distant and fleeting.

He feels like he’ll watch Taesan’s life slip before his eyes if he doesn’t do something. Anything.

He bites into Taesan’s neck, slipping his poison into Taesan’s veins. Taesan's veins lift and reveal a dark black/red traveling down his neck, disappearing into the rest of his body. Licking at the wound, lapping up any body that’s left. Leehan can’t believe he almost killed someone because he couldn’t control himself. He rushes out the back entrance with Taesan wrapped in his arms, ignoring the weird and concerned stares from strangers, and he heads out of the club. He has to get Taesan home quickly.

He’s now on the floor of Taesan’s dorm, praying his vampire ancestors help him. Taesan’s lying almost lifeless on the couch, cheeks sunken and his skin pale, flushed from all color; even his once pretty pink lips are now a dull shade of purple.

He’s never turned someone before, so he’s a bit overwhelmed. He’s spent the past 20 minutes force-feeding Taesan all the blood bags that he could get his hands on. Not a sign of Taesan coming through.

Leehan is washed with a wave of insane guilt and is ashamed of himself. He breaks down, sobbing into his knees as the blood bags lie empty, scattered on the floor.

He feels like shit.

Coughing, Taesan gasps awake, his head heavy, unable to lift his head or even open his eyes. He’s shivering and too dizzy to move. Frantically scanning his face for more movement, confirming he isn’t dead. Well dead in human terms.

“Taesan, Taesan, are you okay???”

Taesan's eyes flicker closed again, lips twitching. Leehan sank into the side of the couch, desperate for an answer. For the rest of the night and morning, Taesan only twitches in his sleep.

Leehan waits by Taesan's side for hours; sunlight starts beaming through his windows, his eyes glued to Taesan's resting body.

A bang on the door startles Leehan, who stares wide-eyed at the door. Hearing the doorknob turning, Leehan curses to himself and books it out the window. Luckily, Taesan’s dorm is on the second floor.

He’ll come back to check on Taesan later.

Jaehyun and Sungho burst into the room, cheering loudly. Taesan tosses awake, lifting himself up, a massive headache immediately hitting him. He groans as he feels like he got hit by a truck; his whole body is aching, and his neck is painfully sore. His body feels cold, his skin is paler than before, and his teeth are aching.

Jaehyun and Sungho stop in their tracks as they see the state of Taesan. “Dude, are you okay?” Sungho asks, seeing how pale and dead Taesan looks.

“You look like you saw a ghost,” Jaehyun adds on.

Taesan holding his hands to his face, he sits up more, rubbing his eyes with the ball of his palms. “What happened last night?” He questions his friends.

His memory is completely blank. He can’t remember a single thing about last night. He feels weird. He can’t pinpoint anything at the moment, but he feels extremely weak and can’t think about anything right now.

“That’s what we came to ask you.” Jaehyun says, “You just disappeared from the club; we assumed you got laid or something.”

“Yeah, we actually came to check on you last night, but we heard some other guys voices,” Sungho adds.

Sungho drops talking when he notices two empty blood bags on the floor, furrowing his eyebrows together. “Hey, uhm, so why are there blood stains on your floor? “ His voice is laced with concern.

Both Taesan and Jaehyun turn their heads to look at the floor, and yes, there are in fact two empty bags on the floor, some blood droplets staining the wood. Sungho lets out a loud gasp as he spots the two bite marks on Taesan's neck.

“Taesan, what the fuck happened to you last night??” Sungho reaches forward, tracing over the black veins and two pierced dots on his nape, making Taesan flinch at the touch.

Jaehyun stands there stiff, mouth agape, “I think he got bitten by a vampire.

Bitten by a vampire?

There’s no fucking way.

“Don’t say shit like that to me right now. I just have a hangover.” He reaches for his neck, where it’s been paining intensively. His body feels cold. His joints hurt and his teeth are aching; it feels like he did a full-body workout and bit into a brick.

“Maybe I did get laid last night; I can’t remember.”

Taesan stands up, wobbling a bit, still dizzy from the night before, and heads to his bathroom.

Turning on the light, he examines himself in the mirror. He looks like fucking shit, but he’s happy to have a reflection. He stares at the marks on his neck; there are a few hickeys scattered on his neck, but his breath hitches at the black veins, and two healing holes in his neck are staring him back in his eyes.

What?

Chapter Text

“Okay, so let me get this straight—”

Taesan starts, eyeing Jaehyun from where he’s sat on the couch. Taesan’s wearing an oversized hoodie that completely engulfs his upper body; his body has been running a bit colder that morning.

“You SAW me go upstairs with some guy and just trusted that I left with him? Safely??“ Taesan’s voice has a tinge of frustration laced in it.

Sungho’s leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, waiting with Taesan for a response.

“I’m sorry I didn’t think about it like that; I was drunk and dancing the whole time! “
Jaehyun says defensively.

Taesan lets out a sigh before sinking his back into the couch. Bringing his hands up to rub his face. He lets out a groan in frustration.

“I mean, we went there to party, so I just assumed, you know, we looked hot and— “
Jaehyun carries on before he’s cut off.

“I’m fine. It’s fine. I’m just upset I don’t remember a single thing, and now I could be a vampire? What shit is that?” Taesan says, looking up at the ceiling with his head hung over the headrest of the couch.

Nodding in agreement, they all let a silence fall on the room. Taesan's eye flickers shut. Breathing slowly to calm down. Jaehyun looks down, lips pouty, fiddling with his fingers, clearly upset with himself.

“wait”

Sungho says, his eyebrows furrowed in thought. He pushes himself from the wall after realizing something that Riwoo told him last night. He recalls Riwoo mentioning how the club's been around for decades. The place runs with stories. Some good, some really bad. He also mentioned how the club is nicknamed Blood Moon because of their signature Bloody Mary cocktails. Surely that can’t be a coincidence.

Taesan and Jaehyun stare at him intensely as he cuts through the thick silence. Grabbing his phone, Sungho calls Riwoo, impatient eyes on the ground. After a few rings, he picks up the phone.

“Hello?”

-°⛧

Sungho, Taesan, and Jaehyun are standing in front of Riwoo's apartment waiting to be let in. Taesan’s hiding himself in his hoodie. Jaehyun is hanging onto Taesan’s arm, head on his shoulder. Sungho’s is standing in the front, hand tapping impatiently on the door frame. Their gaze fixed up when they hear the click of the door handle.

Riwoo opens the door; his eyes lock on Sungho, a flint of light shining through as he stares up at him. Greeting, Sungho introduces Taesan and Jaehyun to Riwoo and vice versa. Riwoo lets them into the apartment, making eye contact with Taesan as he’s the last to enter. Taesan holds the contact for a second before returning his gaze to the ground, managing out a small bow. Taesan recognizes him as the guy with the washed-out pink hair Sungho was swooning over in the club. If only his memory didn’t stop there, they wouldn’t be so lost right now. They hesitantly enter, standing crowded by the door, and walking further into the apartment, they take in the cozy and welcoming atmosphere before all standing still, blocked by Jaehyun's stiff body, standing shocked as his eyes are fixed onto a man, basically glowing from where he’s sat in the living room.

Taesan’s eyes flicker up as he spots the man sitting there; the curtains are drawn closed, but the light seeping through creates a yellow halo surrounding his figure. Even his blond hair glows a bright white in certain places on top of his head. If he wasn’t in such a shitty mood, he could fall in love right now.

“This is Ricky; he can help you,” Riwoo says as he clears his throat. As they stand there, Taesan's hood falls to his shoulders, their eyes instantly moving to reveal the bruise on his neck.

Ricky stands up to greet everyone with a warm, small smile before inviting them to sit down and talk.

“Wish we could meet in better circumstances,” Jaehyun says in a flirty tone, moving to sit close to Ricky on the floor, earning himself a jab in the arm by Sungho. Riwoo takes a seat on the ground with Sungho and Jaehyun, Taesan sitting on the opposite end of the couch as Ricky.

“It’s nice to meet you,” Ricky says, smiling shyly at the small interaction between the two, looking down at Jaehyun briefly before his attention is brought back to the reason why he’s there.

“So… what happened?”

Taesan’s sitting stiffly, fidgeting with the drawstrings on his hoodie. After talking about everything that Taesan remembers and what Jaehyun can recall, they try to recall every detail. Well, the ones he can remember.

Ricky listens attentively, nodding along to encourage Taesan to open up, giving an empathetic smile every now and then.

“Do you mind if I take a look?” Ricky asks softly, eyeing Taesan’s neck.

“Oh yeah, sure. “

Taesan tilts his head as Ricky leans in, tracing his finger over the emerging vein.

Again, he could fall in love right now.

Ricky hums to himself, pulling his finger away from Taesan's skin, almost like he is confirming a suspicion.

“Okay so, it looks like you were bit by a half-blood or maybe even less than that.” Ricky pauses in thought. “The bite marks aren’t deep, and he seems inexperienced on top of that; he almost missed your artery.” Ricky states, a little relieved.

“Fuck, so I am a vampire?” Taesan aimlessly asks, already knowing the answer. Ricky gives him a tight-lipped smile and nods slowly.

To say Taesan’s stomach drops would be an understatement. He hangs his head low and cups his face with his hands.

He’s so fucked.

The one time he decides to let loose, he gets turned into a fucking vampire. How great.

“I’m assuming this is better than him being a full-blood, no? But what does that mean?” Sungho questions. Taesan pushes his hair back, holding his neck to listen. Jaehyun and Sungho are watching Taesan carefully, worried for their friend.

Shifting in his seat a bit, Ricky starts, “Well… it means that the vampire who bit you isn’t a full vampire; it could be half or even a quarter vampire. That also means his powers aren’t strong; neither is his vampirism.”

Oh, ok. So not only is he a vampire, but he’s kinda a lame one. What’s the point if he doesn’t even get powers from all this? Like, literally, is there anything that’s positive? Nothing about this is cool.

Taesan lets out a breath he didn’t know he was holding, Ricky eyeing him before he continues, “What do you mean by vampirism? Like side effects? “

“Well yes, you probably don’t have to feed as often as a normal vampire, and you’re not as affected by the sunlight as a pureblood. You’re most likely not immortal, maybe just an extended life span, but I’m not completely certain.” Ricky states, searching Taesan's face for his reaction. Taesan’s just nodding at this point, taking in the new information.

“Wait, why do you know so much about this?” Jaehyun cuts in.

Ricky slowly turns his head to him, not expecting to be called out on the spot. He lets out a breathy laugh, his hand reaching for the back of his head. “Oh, uhm, I guess Riwoo didn’t mention that part?” Ricky’s ears start turning red at the tips as he looks over at Riwoo, who’s sitting with his hand covering his open mouth.

“Are you a vampire?” Jaehyun lets the question slip out. Jaehyun’s face is slapped with surprise, mouth agape, staring up at Ricky.

“Uhhh, yeah,” he pauses like he’s bracing himself for something, “but I was born one; both my parents are vampires,” Ricky confirms, baring his hands defensively.

Jaehyun brings a finger to his mouth; he bites it in between his teeth and starts.

“Why’s that kinda h—“

Sungho cut Jashyun off, pressing his hand against Jaehyun's mouth to shut him up. Riwoo and Ricky let out tiny, breathy laughs at the silliness of the pair.

‘Ahhh, of course, Ricky’s too cool to get himself into a situation like this.’ Taesan internalizes. Taesan dramatically groans, throwing himself back against the couch. Getting everyone’s attention back onto him, Sungho and Jaehyun stopped their squirming.

“So what happens now?”

-°⛧

The first few days were all about adjusting.

Not only did he just move across the country to a new city, but now he has to fix his schedule to accommodate his feeding. At least he doesn’t have to wear glasses anymore.

He started noticing his heightened senses a few days after his discussion with Ricky. Speaking of, Ricky has been assisting him ever since, supplying him with blood bags and advice on his new life. He doesn’t know what he’d do without Ricky, if he’s being honest.

He’s relieved to hear that he’s not completely dead. He still has a heartbeat, though it’s faint; it’s still beating, and that’s all that matters. His skin is paler, his hearing is so strong that he can hear heartbeats if he listens carefully, and his body is miles colder than a human's.

Relatively, he likes to think his life hasn’t changed as much. He feeds in the morning, and it holds him for the day; he could last two days without blood; he can walk outside without the sun burning him.

As long as he’s not exposed to it too long.

He’s packed most of his dorm out at this point. Jaehyun and Sungho are helping, of course. They have been more clingy than ever, if that’s even possible, since they all found out about Taesan's predicament.

Jaehyun feels especially bad after thinking back to how he was the one who suggested they go to the club in the first place. They, of course, slapped that thought out of his head before he started sulking even more.

3 days before campus starts.

It’s nighttime now. Taesan stood in his kitchen; he had a towel thrown over his shoulders and his damp hair sticking slightly onto his face and neck. He’s sipping on the left over blood from a bag he had this morning, the taste is a bit  bland but it suppresses the growing hungry at the bottom of his stomach. He drinks it from a mug like a cup of coffee or tea, his thinking being something about the mug making him feel more human or whatever. He feels his body gain more ‘life,’ if that’s the right word to use.

Drinking the last drops up, he rinses the mug in the sink, wiping the clean water off on the towel around his neck. His bin is piling up with empty blood bags, the sight alone making his head hurt a bit. Shaking his head before he thinks too deeply, he walks to his bedroom, rubbing his hair dry with the towel.

Grateful for his past self for having everything set up, he tosses the towel on the floor before he collapses on the bed, stuffing his face into the pillows, his holding body seeking comfort and warmth from his duvet. His tense body instantly relaxes as sleep welcomes him in.

-°⛧

Sharp and pungent, the smell of his own blood, the feeling of his skin tearing apart, the way he's slipping through the cracks. He’s on the edge of feeling too much and nothing at all. The grip on his shirt, the wet tongue licking over the punctures on his neck, he’s so close to losing balance. The strong hand on his neck is pulling him closer. Taking and taking. Taesan caves into the overwhelming sensation going straight to his guts.

He wants more.

He shouldn’t, but he does. Stinging and crawling at his insides, the burn of his blood rushing through his body is both worrisome and weirdly exhilarating. His body is on fire. The warmth wrapping around him. Every inch of his body feels like it’s floating; he’s hanging by a thread, threatening to snap at any moment.

Taesan jolts awake, his almost dead heart racing. Hissing at the pain in his neck, his hand rushes to rub at the wounds. What’s going on? They’re healed, but the pain is so sharp and fresh. His body feels like it’s playing games with him. He can’t even escape his reality in his dreams. Sitting up, he brings his legs up to bury his face in his knees. Cold tears leak from his eyes; he can’t help it. His body feels heavy.

He feels so cold.

He doesn’t want to think about it right now. How he feels. He’s been disassociating for the past week. Convincing himself that not much has changed. He doesn’t know what to do with himself or what his future looks like.

He doesn’t want to think about how he’ll never be able to have a chance to grow old with someone. Doesn’t want to think about what his parents will think. About how his heart aches and pulls in his chest.

He’s a mess.

Every other night he has the same nightmare, the same breakdown, the same pain in his chest.

He’s been disassociating for the past week. Convincing himself that not much has changed. He doesn’t know what to do with himself or what his future even looks like.

He feels his body getting colder. Millions of needles prickling around his skin, goosebumps trickling down his spine, his gaze is too blurry to make out anything.

Everything’s cold.

He’s freezing.

“You’re hungrier than usual.” Ricky states, leaning against Taesan’s kitchen counter. Taesans is on the other end of the counter, ignoring Ricky’s comment, absolutely devouring an O positive bag like this is his first hit after being sober for a year. It’s so late, but he’s so grateful that Ricky came as fast as he could.

Which was fast since, you know, he’s got actual vampire powers.

He's become a messy eater. Blood slightly leaked onto his fingers and dripped onto the countertop, making a mental note to clean up later. He doesn’t know when the blandness of the blood started becoming addictive, but he can’t get enough. Letting out a low, embarrassing growl as he makes out with the bag, ignoring the plastic taste of the bag.

“You know,” Ricky pauses, looking through the windows of Taesan’s apartment at the stars littering the sky, “eating raw-ish meat can help with your hunger too. “

Taesan winces at the idea. He looks up at Ricky, “Do I look crazy to you?” “How can he suggest I start drinking animal blood?’ The thought sends shivers down his spine; the most he’ll do is a medium rare steak.

“I’m just saying, it’s not entirely normal to be this hungry.” Ricky’s eyes are now staring down at Taesan, taking in his presence.

“You don’t look like you’ve been sleeping well either,” he settles with after seeing the dark rings around Taesan’s eyes.

Taesan pulls away from the bag, licking at his lips and over his fangs. Flickering his eyes up at Ricky for a second before returning to stare at the bag.

“Yeah, it’s been… difficult,” Taesan lets out. He doesn’t really want to think about the dreams. The nightmares.

Ricky examines his face, his heart stings tugging for the younger; Ricky thinks to himself how traumatic the turning must have been for him to lose sleep over it.

“Take care of yourself, okay? You know I’m a call away; I’m your hyung after all.” Ricky sends a warm smile at Taesan. He looks down at the bag in his hand, swishing the liquid back and forth with his hands.

It feels nice to have another vampire look out for him like this. Sure he wouldn’t trade Jaehyun and Sungho for the world, but he doesn’t know how he’d be here right now without a friend like Ricky.

“Thanks, Grandpa.” Taesan smiles teasingly at him, Ricky’s face dropping to a glare, sending imaginary daggers at Taesan. Rolling his eyes playfully before turning around and heading to leave. Taesan can hear his footsteps stop by the door, clicking the doorknob open.

“Okay, I’m heading out. I put two more bags in the fridge in case,” Ricky shouts from the door before shutting it behind himself.

Yeah, what would he do without him?

-°⛧

Campus is buzzing full of students; Taesan’s just grateful he got some sleep last night. Walking through the hallways looking for his class, he curses at himself for oversleeping orientation the previous morning. Nothing he can do about that now.

Finding his class, he’s 10 minutes early. He finds a nice shaded seat further towards the back of class; sitting down, he plops his bag in the seat next to him. He stares outside of the windows at the other students scrambling around, laughing, searching for classes, or checking their schedules for what classes they have first.

Laying his head on the desk, he pops his earphones in and closes his eyes for a bit.

A tag on the sleeve of his sweater grabs his attention. Lifting his head up, he takes out his earphones from his ears, and he stares up at a nervous-looking tall guy. He’s got reddish-brown hair and puppy eyes staring at Taesan like he’s begging for a treat.

“Sorry, can I sit here? “ Letting go of his sleeve, he points to the seat that Taesan’s bag is sitting on. “I get hot easily, so I don’t want to sit in the sun.”

“Oh sure,” Taesan says, grabbing his bag and placing it on the floor. Looking around, the sun is beating down on the other seats in front of their row; the class has filled up more since he last checked.

Sitting next to him, the boy smiles at him awkwardly, “I’m gyuvin.” He introduces himself, “Oh, nice to meet you. I’m Taesan,” he says, flashing him a soft smile. He seems nice.

Gyuvin pulls out his laptop, unlocking it to reveal his background of him and his dog. Taesan watches as he starts setting up his desk, but then his eye catches someone.

And it’s like time slows down.

The man's soft eyes and pouty lips complement his face so harmoniously. His blond hair shining a golden halo as it catches the light, bouncing as he takes steps walking past the class. Even with the distance, he can tell the man's eyes are sparkly, light reflecting so perfectly onto his face. His side profile is insane as well.

Who was that?

He’s never seen someone that pretty.

And he’s seen Ricky.

Taesan is so entranced that he completely missed the lecturer calling out his name. Gyuvin taps him lightly, snapping him out of it. “I think they want to know if you’re here with us,” Gyuvin whispers at Taesan.

Taesan embarrassedly half shouts, “Sorry, I’m here!” The lecturer just looks at Taesan for a bit of silence and then continues with the register. Gaining some giggles from some girls in the front of the class at his scatterbrained response, one black-haired girl even sent him a little wave.

He and Gyuvin exchange a glance at that, letting out a breathy laugh at the humor in the situation.

Taesan glances back to where he saw that gorgeous man, of course to find he’s long gone.

Who was that?

Chapter Text

A sense of dread washes over him. He doesn’t feel like he can breathe. Inhaling deeply, his lungs not contracting properly. His fingers are tingling; he can feel the headache start at the back of his skull as his head is spinning.

He doesn’t know what the fuck to do.

He’s never turned someone before; he doesn’t know the first thing about it, what to expect, or what he should and shouldn’t do.

He shouldn’t have just left. That he knows. He should have stayed and waited for Taesan to wake up. To explain what happened, to help him.

He feels so dirty and guilty.

Speed walking to his dorm, he’s still in last night's clothes, stained with some blood. Rushing in, he closes the door, pushing his back against it, sliding down it with his hands tangled in his hair. The privacy of his dorm allowing him to break, he starts violently shaking and sobbing.

He feels like shit. How could he do this to someone? Ruining their life just for a taste.

He could have killed him. He’s so fucking stupid.

This is suffocating.

He can’t believe what he did, almost killing someone in a club and then turning them into a vampire. Is he sick? Or is this just a new level of stupidity that he’s reached?Leehan’s head is flooding with every bad thing he’s ever done in his life just to suffer further. Crying even harder into his hands.

After 20 minutes of self-loathing, he gets up to wash his face. His hands are still shaking as he brings the water to his face. He washes his hands continuously until they feel raw and thin. Turning off the water, he looks in the mirror; he can hardly stand the sight of himself.

He wasn’t raised like this. What would his parents think of him? What would anyone think of him? He just turned someone into a vampire and then left them to fend for themself.

He needs to help Taesan.

As much as he can.

He can’t let Taesan suffer on his own when all this is his fault.

He spends the next few days watching over Taesan’s dorm, making sure that he’s okay. He can’t get too close as Taesan’s friends, two brunettes, a blonde, and another shorter guy with pink hair, are constantly visiting and sleeping over.

He feels like he became a zombie, every day the same routine. Checking on Taesan when he wakes up and before he goes to sleep, everything feels like déjà vu. He’s barely been sleeping at all, his own thoughts keeping him up at night about what a horrible person he is.

Leehan is so anxious. He’s only been catching glimpses of Taesan when he’s standing too close to the window or when his door opens to greet him.

Leehan wants to knock and help, fix what he can, or even just own up to it. but he can’t. He can’t bring himself to do it. To move. To do anything but watch.

One morning, turning the corner in the dorm building, he bumps straight into a man with a blonde wolf cut. Colliding into him, the man’s trash bag falls to the floor, exposing its contents.

“Shit, I’m so sorry,” the man says instinctively. Leehan shakes his head, softens his face a bit, but he freezes when he looks down to pick up the man’s trash with him.

About 10 empty blood bags are pouring out of the green plastic bag.

“Oh,” Leehan says absentmindedly.

Panic flashes across the man’s face. “Uhm, it’s not what it looks like. I— “

“You’re a vampire, right?” Leehan cuts him off, handing him one of the bags.

A pregnant silence falls between them. The man takes a deep breath in. “I guess there’s no point in lying now,” the man lets out an airy laugh, displaying a painful smile. “I’m Ricky, “ he says as he takes the bag, shoving it in the plastic.

Standing up right, Leehan gives him a tight-lipped smile and a nod, “Leehan.”

“Ahh, it’s nice to meet you; it’s good to know there are more vampires here.” Ricky says, “I can run to you if I ever run out of blood.”

Leehan cracks a small side smile. “Of course, that’s a lot for one vampire, though?”

Oh no, this is from me and my friend; he’s a fledgling, so he’s been needing too fucking many.”

“Ahhh, okay, that makes sense.” Leehan lets out a nervous and awkward laugh.

“Well, I have to go before people wake up and see me with ten million blood bags.” Ricky excuses himself, pulling the bag up as if it got heavier. “I’ll see you around, Leehan!”

Leehan bows to greet him goodbye. That must be the blonde guy. At least he’s taking care of him.

-°⛧

Leehan’s first class ends; it wasn’t bad, just very boring, managing to snag the oldest lecturer in history as his English teacher. He has volleyball introductions next, checking his phone for the map of the school, absentmindedly walking; his path is interrupted as he almost bumps into someone. His heart sinks to his stomach.

Taesan.

Taesan’s standing about 15 cm away from his face. He’s so close he can count every eyelash if he wanted to. The sun’s backlighting created a halo over Taesan’s body. Sporting a navy blue sweater that complements his complexion perfectly, Leehan can’t help but admire his beauty for the second that he has. As if the universe hasn’t tortured him enough, Taesan makes eye contact. Leehan's dead heart races. Fuck

Leehan’s blinking rapidly, eyes moving frantically across his face before they land on Taesan's neck. His bandage barely covers the marks Leehan left weeks ago. Leehan’s breath hitches. He needs to leave. Now.

Turning on his heel, he speed walks. No runs. away from Taesan, bumping into a few students completely ignoring their protests and comments. He needs to find a place to hide.

“What was that about?” Sungho asks, and he walks up to Taesan. Taesan shrugs, head still facing the direction Leehan escaped in.

Leehan’s been splashing his face with ice-cold water the past 10 minutes trying to calm himself down.

Why is he here? Why did he HAVE to attend my school? Does he remember me?

Fuck my life.

Holding himself up against the sink, he closes his eyes to focus on his breathing. He needs to calm down.

Taesan didn’t look angry when he saw him. Maybe he doesn’t remember. Maybe.

He just has to avoid him at all costs for now. Take the long way to class.

It’s 10 minutes into volleyball practice; he’s already wasted enough time in the bathroom. He can head home right after volleyball. That’s if Taesan doesn’t show up there too. Knowing his luck…

Entering the gymnasium, he sees the guys all sitting together listening to the coach talk. Thankful Taesan is not there, so he can relax.

“I’m sorry for being late; I got a bit lost.” Leehan apologizes to the coach; the coach lets him off the hook this time, considering it is their first day.

The gymnasium is a bit further away from the campus, so he doubts he’ll catch Taesan here, that fact alone helping him relax. After the coach finishes talking, he gives them 10 minutes to change in the changing rooms.

What a better way to get to know each other. As everyone puts on their respective volleyball shirts, they start picking up everyone’s names written on their backs under the school's name.

Seunghan, Dohoon, Heeseung, Euijoo, Gunwook, and Gyuvin.

Practice runs smoothly, securing him a spot as an outside hitter. He’s just happy not to be benched. Sitting down with the rest of the team, they chat and get to know each other. He clicks specifically well with Seunghan, Gunwook, and Gyuvin.

“You’re good for a first year,” Heeseung says towards him, his eyes lingering a little too long on Leehan's exposed arms. He licks his lips before drinking more water from his bottle. “Thank you, hyung.” Heeseung sends him a wink in return. That was something? He noticed Heeseung staring at him like he’s a snack since he arrived, but he can’t think about that right now.

At least he still gets to enjoy volleyball.

-°⛧

Taesan’s as confused as ever, eyebrows furrowed, wracking his brain for something, anything about that boy.

But nothing comes up.

Taesan’s never seen anybody that looks that beautiful in his life. Yes, something about him is so familiar; Taesan definitely would remember a face like his, no question about it.

So why does he feel like his heartstrings are pulling and his brain recognizes him? He must be going mad.

Why did he run away, though?

He looked at my neck. Does he know? Did I scare him away?

Nothing is making sense to him right now. Taesan walks with Sungho and Nakyoung; Gyuvin had excused himself to go to volleyball practice. Nakyoung is hanging tightly onto his arm, pulling him down a bit due to the height difference. Sungho raises his eyebrow at Taesan, but he just gets a confused shoulder raise in return. He’ll take it, though. The attention is making him feel like shit.

“You’re so tall, and you’ve got a nice face too, I guess,” Nakyoung says in an especially sweet and playful tone. Giggle as she says the last lines.

“You guess? You’re all over him.” Sungho responds to her comment on Taesan. She gives him a flat look that screams for him to shut up, but Sungho isn’t moved.

The rest of the classes drag by, Taesan begging for sweet relief as the final minutes tick by. Catching Jaehyun and Sungho, they walk home together, Jaehyun sharing his day, what classes he got, what days he can sleep in, and all the hot people he saw that day—super important things to Jaehyun.

Sungho is teasing Taesan about Nakyoung and complaining about how much their head hurts from all the introductions and icebreakers they had to do.

Just thinking about today is giving him a headache. Not to mention him scaring away the finest man he’s ever seen. Hopefully tomorrow will be better.

-°⛧

Tuesdays mean that their classes start at 11am. Giving Jaehyun and Sungho enough time to bicker as they walk to collect Taesan from his dorm so they can all commute to campus together. They reach the door; Ricky opens the door to leave.

“Oh? You’re here late? “  Jaehyun says to Ricky, before squinting his eyes suspiciously at him. “Don’t tell me you guys have some kind of vampire relationship going on that we don’t know about. “

“Absolutely no way.” Ricky bites back, holding his hands up in defense. “No offense to Taesan; he’s just not my type.”

“Wow, thanks, I love you too,” Taesan shouts from inside the dorm. Taesan is standing in his kitchen, deeply interested in his phone, drinking blood from a mug. Jaehyun and Sungho still have to get used to that aspect.

“Good to know I still have a chance,” Jaehyun says with a wink.

“Come, we’re going to be late,” Sungho shouts into Taesan’s apartment. Taesan rinses his mug, and the four of them head to campus. The weather's a bit warmer today, even though that means the sun will be out more; the warmth against Taesan’s skin feels nice, reminding him of how much he loved sitting in the sun by the pool on a hot summer day. He guesses he can’t do that anymore.

Dropping Taesan off at class, Jaehyun, Sungho, and Ricky walk off. Taesans enters class, and walking up the steps to his level in the classroom, he spots Nakyoung and Gyuvin arguing back and forth about something.

“Get up! I said no!” Gyuvin shouts at Nakyoung, placing his bag on the desk in front of her. She’s sitting with crossed arms in Gyuvin's seat like it was never his to begin with.

“Yah! You came late, so go find somewhere else to sit,” she bites back at him, moving her hand as if she’s batting a fly away.

Gyuvin runs his hand across his face. “Fine then,” he deflates, before deciding to sit next to her in protest, pulling his bag onto his desk.

“No, you can’t sit there!” She shouts, grabbing at his bag. Having a mini tug of war. Taesan starts laughing at them, grading their attention; she lets go on Gyuvin's bag, causing Gyuvin to fall back into the seat. Nakyoung fixes her hair, clearing her throat and batting her eyelashes at Taesan, “Oppa~ what took you so long!” she says in a cutesy voice, twirling her hair in her fingers.

“Oppa?” Taesan says Gyuvin scoffs at her ridiculous personality switch-up. Taesan walks to the seats directly behind Gyuvin and sits down.

Nakyoung twists her body to face him. “Huh? When were you born? “ concern was written all over her face.

“10th August 2004,” Taesan responds flatly. Nakyoung's face goes cold. She turns to face the front, propping her head up with her hands on the table, like she’s contemplating her entire life.

“Oh! Me too! I’m the 30th.” Gyuvin half shouts in surprise. “Woahhhhh, what the hell. No wonder we got along so well.” Taesan and Gyuvin slap their hands together, solidifying their friendship forever.

“I’m surrounded by children.” Nakyoung shakes her head and huffs out air. At least now she can tease Gyuvin and Taesan.

“Are you three done talking now?” The lecturer shouts; they didn’t even notice him enter the room.

“Yes, sir, sorry, sir.” They all say in unison, lowering their heads, the rest of the class snickering.

Class ends, and Jaehyun walks with Taesan to their shared class, Jaehyun complaining about how he spilled his coffee on ‘everything’ he owned.

Yes, that dramatically.

Jaehyun's biggest complaint that day, though, was how Sungho was breaking their weekly scheduled anime night to go out with Riwoo.

“I mean, he’s allowed to hang out with his boyfriend,” Taesan says, defending Sungho.

“I mean, I get it, but why on OUR day? Why on Dragon Ball Z day?” And the episode is so important “ —he starts rambling on, Taesan unable to catch up with all the details and reasonings Jaehyun is spilling out. Taesan is just nodding to make Jaehyun feel like he understands what's going on.

As they walk, Taesan spots Ricky leaning against the wall, talking fondly to someone.

As they get closer, Taesan gets a glimpse of the man’s face, his soft eyes turning to crescents as he laughs at something Ricky said.

God, he’s so cute; I want him to smile at me like that.

Locking eyes with Taesan, his eyes drop, and he suddenly excuses himself with a bow to walk in the complete opposite direction as them. Ricky’s eyes track his body as he leaves, confusion writing all over his face. Taesan and Jaehyun walk up to Ricky, dapping him up as a friendly greeting.

“Hello, gorgeous, “ Jaehyun greets Ricky, sending a flirty wink his way that Ricky brushes off, his pinkish ears betraying him.

“Do you know that guy?” Taesan asks, focused on getting to know who the hell that is or learning basically anything about him.

“Who? Leehan? Kind of not really; I met him recently, actually.”

Leehan.

Okay, good to know.

“Yeah, every time he sees me, he runs away.” Taesan pauses, pulling his bottom lip into his mouth to chew on, almost scared to speak his thoughts. “It’s like he knows I’m a monster or something.”

“You think we’re monsters now?” Ricky says sassily back at him. Taesan just hangs his head low, pulling up the one strap of his backpack that’s hanging on his shoulder

“You’re not a monster, Taesan.” Ricky says, putting his hand on Taesan’s shoulder. “And trust me, it can’t be that.” Ricky lets out a laugh, reassuring Taesan. “He is a bit weird, though; maybe he just has a crush on you?” Ricky lets out a smile mischievously as if he’s hiding something.

“Yeah, and I’m a human. Stop lying already.” Taesan jokes that Ricky is earning himself a special of Ricky glaring his way.

“Why are you this side of campus anyways?” Jaehyun asks Ricky.

“Oh, one lecture prefers the lecture room in this building, so what can I do?”

“Ahhhhh, okay, okay.” Taesan and Jaehyun harmonize as they continue to chat and catch up with Ricky.

“Sayyyy, what are you doing later?” Jaehyun asks Ricky, a mischievous tone in his voice.

“Why? Are you asking me on a date?” Ricky flirts back, causing Jaehyun to blush a bright red on his face. He’s used to dishing it out, not so much receiving it.

“He wants you to watch his anime show with him,” Taesan says, ruining whatever plan Jaehyun had to coerce Ricky.

“Sounds fun, but I have some things I need to do unfortunately .” Ricky declines with a pout, waving goodbye to Taesan and Jaehyun before disappearing.

-°⛧

So now we’re here.

In Taesan’s dorm that Jaehyun has taken over.

Taesan is sitting on the couch with a bowl of popcorn resting in his lap. Jaehyun shouting at the screen and explaining lore to Taesan all whilst watching AND eating snacks. Where does he get all this energy from? It’s never-ending.

Taesan swears if he ever needs someone to run in a hamster wheel for electricity, Jaehyun will be his first call.

“DID YOU SEE THAT!” Jaehyun stands up with his hands on his head, freaking out over a character in the show becoming yellow and shouting something about being ‘super saiyan.’ Yeah, whatever that means.

To be honest, he missed hanging out one-on-one with Jaehyun; he remembered how he’d come home sometimes and Jaehyun and Sungho would be lounging on his bed or playing on his PlayStation like it was their room, and Taesan was interrupting. He remembers how they would run from the car to the kitchen to see who could hold the most and be the fastest. It’s thoughts like this that make his cold heart warm up, thinking about how long they’ve been friends and how they truly are best buddies.

He decides to indulge in Jaehyun's ramblings, asking questions about the different characters in the show, remembering one or two characters' names from when Jaehyun and Sungho would talk or, more so, argue about who’s more powerful.

That night he wakes up on the couch in a cold sweat.

Gasping awake, his heart is beating out of his chest. His mind keeps replaying the same nightmare over and over. The blood, the pain, the sharp reminders that his body holds from that night. The uncontrollable tension in his neck returns when he wakes up; he hunches over, holding his stomach in pain. He’s aching all over, like he just got punched. His heart squeezes, feeling heavy but empty at the same time. His breathing is out of control; he tries to calm down by examining the room, grounding and reminding himself that he’s safe and at home.

Nothing’s wrong, it’s okay, everything’s okay.

Breathing slowly, he spots Jaehyun sleeping calmly on the makeshift bed of a collection of pillows and blankets he made to watch his show. Okay, he’s also not alone; that’s good.

His stomach starts pulling tightly together, growling like he’s been starving for weeks. It’s hurting so bad, he lets out an involuntary growl.

Okay, I get it.

He gets up from the couch, his body still aching a bit, but enough to stop his stomach from guiding him to the kitchen.
He opens the fridge to reveal—

nothing.

It’s completely empty. Of course it is.

Fuck, okay, I’ll just call Ricky.

Pulling out his phone from his pocket, he talks to it to wake up.

And his phone is dead too. Wow!

Closing his eyes and deeply inhaling, he shoves his frustration down and decides to go to the store himself. He remembers Ricky vaguely showing him where to go, so he should be able to make it there. Should.

As he’s approaching the tunnel under the bridge, he sees a guy with his hood up walking the opposite direction; the hoodie has his university name on it. Must be another student.

The student is walking so slowly, almost struggling. Taesan swears he can hear small sniffles coming from the man as well. He then spots small red dots leaving a trail behind the guy. Inhaling the smell is too familiar for Taesan not to recognize. It’s blood.

Shit, Is he okay? Does he need help? It’s dangerous to just approach someone at night, but he’s bleeding a lot.

He should help.

Plus, if anything happens, he’s a vampire; he can scare them away. Almost at least he thinks he can.

Speed walking up to the guy, he grabs his sleeve, “Are you okay?” The attention caused the man to spin so quickly he dropped what he was holding.

It’s Leehan.

His hair is a mess; he looks weak and scattered. His eyes are reddish, and his face is clearly tear-stained, some marks fresher than others. The baggy clothes he's drowning in make him look so small and vulnerable; he’s also in his slippers, adding to the whole bedhead look. Even in this state he’s adorable. He can admire him for hours until the sun comes up and burns him to a crisp.

“Leehan?” Taesan asks, the name laced with confusion and concern. Taesan is confused; what’s Leehan doing walking around at 3 am that night, alone? Crying and bleeding on top of that.

“You remember me?” Leehan whispers out. The blood drains from Leehan’s face; his expression turns to something sorrowful and full of despair. His body goes stiff and his eyes shake as it examines Taesan’s face.

Remember? What does he mean, rememb-

Then the smell hits him.

Blood.

He glances down to see a blood bag on the floor; it spilled slightly on the floor. Leehan acts fast to grab it and stuff it into the plastic bag he’s carrying. Taesan furrows his eyebrows.

Remember?

His eyes flicker to Leehan's neck. Taesan’s eyebrows settle back into place as he releases tension, his mouth falling slightly apart.

Leehan is the fucking vampire from the club.

What the fuck.

Chapter Text

He remembers.

He remembers Leehan approaching him in the bar.

He remembers the way his blonde hair tangled in his fingers.

He remembers the sharp pain as Leehan bit deeper into him.

He remembers the feeling of Leehan’s poison seeping into his bloodstream.

He remembers waking up in his apartment with Leehan standing over him.

He remembers.

He clenches his jaw, slowly letting go of his sleeve. He can’t believe it. This whole time. He’s been swooning over the man that ruined his life. No, the man that took his life away from him.

He swallows, his eyes dropping to the floor, searching for what to say. Looking back up, he locks eyes with Leehan.

“Yeah, I do remember you.”

Taesan pauses studying Leehan’s face; his stomach twists in ways he hasn’t felt in a long time, swallowing into itself. He can feel the redness sneaking onto his nose and the tears building up in his waterline.

Leehan looks at him with sorrowful eyes. Swallowing, he opens his mouth, but nothing comes out. Waiting for Taesan’s next words, next moves, anything.

“Why the fuck did you do this to me?” His eyebrows pull together slightly; he wants Leehan to talk, to tell him why, to tell him that this isn’t real. That this isn’t happening right now.

But none of that happens.

Leehan turned him. Leehan changed his
Life completely. Leehan's the one behind his nightmares, behind his pain.

He’s watching Leehan so intensely, his eyes flickering across his face as he speaks. Leehan’s eyes are teary; he's watching Taesan so carefully those tears threaten to fall at any second.

“You left me –”

His breath is catching in his throat, and as his mind replays what happened, Taesan’s face has betrayal written all over it, his voice sounding low and broken.

“- to handle this shit by myself.”

The tension in the silences between Taesan talking feels like a heavy weight slowly crushing over them, an impending doom that feels like it’s destined to crush them both.

“I could’ve died, Leehan; I should be dead right now.” He swallows dryly; Taesan’s hand clutching at his heart as he speaks. Tears continuously flowing down his face, his lips quivering as he says his next words.

“Why did you do this to me?” Taesan breaks. His voice is soft and defeated. He starts crying hard, rubbing his palms into his eyes, unable to block his tears from escaping.

“I’m a monster”, his voice cracking.

Taesan’s words cut Leehan deep. Hearing the words come out of his mouth hit him differently; this kind of hurt was unknown to his body. He feels like shit. It hurts him seeing Taesan in this state and the fact that it’s all his doing that got them to this point. Leehan’s hands are shaking, his mind moving at a million miles, but he’s frozen, unable to pick the right words to say.

Taesan's staring at Lee Han, his eyes pleading for answers, for reasons. But nothing. Leehan has nothing to say. He doesn’t know if it’s better that way or not.

“Fuck, I don’t know if I can talk to you right now.” Taesan’s turns, placing his hands on his head, fingers ripping at his hair. Breathing slowly, he allows the fresh air to tap his tears dry.

Breathe in and out.
Inhale. Exhale.

“I’m sorry,” Leehan whispers out, chewing at his bottom lip, holding himself together.

“I’m so sorry…”

Taesan turns to look at him, face drained, completely spent.

Leehan bursts into tears, his body shaking violently. “I didn’t know what I was doing; I’m so sorry.”

“I ruined your life, I know, “ Leehan swallows, struggling to think of what to say next, holding and breaking eye contact in cycles.

“I don’t know how to fix this.” Leehan expresses, his voice shaking.

“You can’t” Taesan snaps at him, anger seeping through his shark words.

“I know” , Leehan responds, starting to cry hard again.

Taesan watches the tears stream down his face; despite the anger boiling in his blood, he can’t help his heart from pulling ever so slightly at the sight. Watching Leehan cry, he took a proper look at Leehan and saw the eye bags from weeks of unsettled sleep, if any; he’s shaking so much.

Looking up, he makes eye contact with Taesan, the tears in his tear duct sparkling.

“I want to help; please let me help you. I don’t know what to do. I’ll do anything.”

Examining Leehan’s face once more, Taesan’s mind a wreck. He doesn’t know what to think, nor does he want to think properly; he can’t, actually.

Taesan’s stomach starts to growling at him  again. Placing his hand on his stomach, he swallows down the pain.

“I’m thirsty.”

Walking out of the store, Taesan drinks directly from the bag, squeezing at the bag to get the last drops out.

He’s still pissed.

Leehan stands behind Taesan, giving him some space. He’s got a bag full of the most expensive blood he could find in the store, watching and waiting for Taesan to say anything, but the silence stretches on.

“I can bring you blood every day”, Leehan says, cutting through the silence. Taesan turns his upper body to look at him, still pissed but too tired to put up a real fight.

“I already have someone for that,” Taesan says, rotating forward again.

“Please”, Leehan begs, his voice coming out desperately.

“I don’t know what else I can do. “

Taesan looks back, analysing Leehan's face. Leehan's flashing puppy eyes at him, nose and eyes a bit red from all the crying earlier.

“Fine”

Leehan’s face softening up at the opportunity to make it up to Taesan.

“but I don’t want to see your face first thing when I wake up.”

Leehan's face drops a bit. “I understand ”.
Taesan instantly feels bad for saying that. Even if he feels like he’s allowed to be harsh, that might have been too much.

-°⛧

Ricky strolls into the dorm, heading straight for the kitchen. At this point Ricky has brought his own designated pair of slippers for his daily routine in Taesan’s life. Opening the fridge to see it’s been restocked already – for a whole week in advance, actually.

Confused, he stuffs the 3 bags in the bottom drawer before shutting the fridge. His eyes lock onto the type AB- blood bag on the counter, studying the bag; it’s warm on top of it.

“Do you know how difficult it is to get rare blood in Seoul?” Ricky says to Taesan, who’s passed out on the couch. Ricky can probably count on one hand the number of times he’s seen him sleep in his actual bed compared to the couch. Outmatched.

“You have to know people. Like, really know people to get your hands on this.

Taesan hardly registers what Ricky’s saying or asking, sleep still holding his brain hostage. Battling, he manages to get an eye open, seeing Ricky’s blurry figure examining a blood bag on the table.

“Where the hell did you get this from?”

Ahh, that’s right. Leehan did say he was going to deliver blood bags to him now; it must be his doing. Sighing, he throws his arm over his eyes.

“You don’t even want to know.”

Ricky examines the bag, lifting it up; there’s a note.

‘I hope this can help you forgive me – Lee Han’

‘Leehan’ Ricky thinks to himself, questioning why Leehan would go out of his way to get this type of blood for Taesan. Thinking back to when he first started delivering, he remembers always feeling a bit uneasy, like eyes were on his back, sometimes catching glimpses of someone walking away when he leaves the dorm.

Ricky thinks he’ll have a chat with Leehan. Having a feeling that Leehan knows more than he lets on.

Waking up properly, he gets up to have his breakfast. He feels the bag; it’s slightly warm, but he’s too lazy to reheat it in the microwave. Lifting it up, he reads the note.

‘I hope this can help you forgive me – Leehan’

It’s going to take a lot more than one lukewarm bag to do that.

But it’s a good start.

Tearing open the bag, he pours it into his usual mug. Swirling the liquid around, the smell is stronger and fresher than anything he’s had before. Then he tastes it.

The liquid pouring into his mouth melts into his tongue, tasting a bit rusty and sweet at the same time. It’s addictive, better than another he’s had before.

Shit, this is really good.

No wonder Ricky said this was expensive, because it definitely tastes the part.

Taesan makes a mental promise to give Ricky a bag or two because that was too good.

He quite literally owes his life to him.

He starts seeing Leehan everywhere. Leehan’s been greeting him at school, short, but he makes it a point to greet properly. So much so that even Jehyun and Sungho started to notice.

“So are you just a hot man magnet?” Jaehyun says as the trio walks through the hallway to the cafeteria. “First Ricky, now this dude? Dude, share, please” , Jaehyun says in a pleading tone, even rubbing his hands together to beg.

“ I think you just have a thing for blondes“, Sungho teases Jaehyun.

“You can have Leehan if you want him”, Taesan says in an annoyed tone.

“Oh, so your boyfriend does have a name,” Jaehyun questions him with a raised eyebrow. Taesan furrows his eyebrows, staring him down.

“Are you not in love with this ‘Leehan’?“ Sungho says sarcastically, putting emphasis on saying his name.

“Actually, I bumped into him last night“, Taesan admits, his face pulling tighter as he gets irritated recalling last night. They're now standing in line at one of the kiosks that sells food, waiting their turn.

“And then??” They’re both are staring at Taesan, ready to receive whatever information they can get.

Taesan waits until they receive their food and have sat down to continue the conversation. Taesan opting just to get something sweet to drink, as his tongue can still register a bit of the sugary content.

Taesan leans forward to whisper at the two of them from across the table, not letting anything slip into wondering ears.

“I thought someone was injured, right? So I reached out to grab the guy's arm, and he turns around, and it’s him“, Jaehyun gasps as if he didn’t already know it was going to be Leehan.

“Then I look down, and I see about 4 blood bags in a plastic bag, and he already drank one.”

Jaehyun’s and Sungho’s eyes are large in surprise, leaning in even more as if to check that they heard correctly.

“What the fuck?” Jaehyun says, completely blown away by what he just heard.

“So he’s a vampire too???” Sungho says a little too loud for Taesan’s liking; Jaehyun even nudges him, motioning for him to be quiet with a finger on his lips. Sungho looking at him up and down, judging him hard for that action.

“Not only that, he’s THE vampire,” Taesan says, rolling his eyes, twirling the straw of his drink before sipping on it.

Sungho’s eyes go even wider, “Huh???” He says, as he can’t believe it, blinking rapidly at Taesan.

“Like a vampire leader?” Jaehyun asks, out of the loop.

“He’s the vampire from the club, you idiot.” Sungho slaps his leg to wake him up so he can think properly.

Comprehending, they sit there in shock. “And then what happened?” Jaehyun asks, and the drama queen inside of him jumps for joy.

“Well, we argued, he apologised, and now he’s leaving expensive blood bags on my counter every morning,” Taesan says, crossing his arms, “with notes even.”

A pause falls on the group as Jaehyun and Sungho take everything in.

“So what you’re saying is, you’re a hot vampire man magnet,” Jaehyun says, teasing Taesan. Taesan lets out an airy laugh. Of course, that’s what Jaehyun says first.

“I can’t believe he’s the one that did this to you, though. That’s pretty shitty.” Sungho says, bringing them all back to the reality of the situation. Yeah, it is a shitty thing he did. No joke or tease can take that fact away.

“Yeah, who would’ve thought?” Jaehyun agrees, folding his arms after taking a huge bite from the chow mein he ordered. “And you even fell for him twice.”

Taesan shoots Jaehyun one of his deadly stares, shutting him up real fast.

-°⛧

About a week of the small greetings, Jaehyun and Sungho’s teasing being at it’s peak, and the more Taesan gets annoyed, the louder they get.

He never catches Leehan in the mornings, only waking up the bags on the table with their accompanying notes. He feels bad about that, but he did ask for it.

The notes keep happening; they went from simple, ‘good mornings’ and ‘I hope you have a nice day’ to ‘your outfit yesterday looked good on you’. Getting more personal as the days go by. Sometimes he’ll even find a mystery one or two in the fridge.

He started looking forward to them. Whatever compliment Leehan had for him that day. Taesan’s been storing them in an empty cabinet in the kitchen island directly under where Leehan places the bags; throwing them away feels too harsh. That’s what he tells himself.

With exams slowly creeping up, Taesan starts spending some time in the library, taking notes and watching lectures on his laptop. In a way he misses his glasses; they made him feel focused and studious. They also helped him only focus on what was in front of him.

Now he’s struggling a bit as he sees
Leehans, in his peripheral vision. Watching him from a couple of seats over every couple of minutes. He’s been noticing Leehan doing this a lot. In the cafeteria, he’d sit somewhere behind him, Jaehyun and Sungho making an effort to let Taesan know that Leehan is staring at him.

In a way, he finds it annoying. Always being watched and always feeling a pressure on your back or behind your head. However, on the other hand, Leehan is a pretty guy who’s staring at him all the time.

A pretty guy who ruined your life, but anyways.

Gyuvin, Nakyoung, and Taesan have plans after class. Gyuvin's been talking about this new restaurant that opened; they serve all kinds of different meats and alcohol, which apparently is right up Gyuvin's alley, and he’s convinced the two to join him.

Nakyoung and Taesan enter the gymnasium together to wait for Gyuvin to finish up, chatting about who knows what. Nakyoung giving Taesan a hard hit on the arm for something stupid he said. Walking in, he locks eyes with Leehan.

Of course Leehan is here.

Leehan is standing in a white and yellow uniform with ‘outside hitter’ embroidered on his back. Practice is over, so he’s standing with some other players, all chatting and tossing the volleyball at each other as they speak. Leehan’s focus shifts for a second too long at Nakyoung, clearly in his head. The ball goes flying firmly into Leehan’s stomach since he wasn’t focused enough to catch it, too locked on staring at Taesan – like always. Leehan scrunches his face and then laughs at his clumsiness with the rest of the guys.

Taesan cracks a side smile at the funny moment, only allowing that much of his amusement to show. They sit at the end of the seats closest to the door to wait for Guuvin. Nakyoung looks at Leehan as he stares them time to time, and just as she’s about to ask Taesan something, Gyuvin comes walking out of the changing room.
Greeting everyone as he leaves.

Walking up ten million steps, their appetite only grew in those mere moments. The restaurant itself is an old Japanese-style restaurant, just with steaks. The decorations and wood elements make it feel super homey and warm. Jaehyun and Sungho would love this place; he’ll bring them some time.

Getting their food, Taesan opts for an almost rare steak, while Gyuvin and Nakyoung get both medium-rare steaks.
Ricky was right; animal meat, in a way, isn’t as bad as he thought. Not super satisfying, but not bad.

“So who’s that one puppy-looking friend of yours?” Nakyoung asks Taesan as she bites the last bit of her steak.

“Trust me“ – Taesan takes a moment to inhale, closing his eyes, puffing his cheeks as he sucks in the air and blows it out.

“Don’t”, Taesan non-explains.

“You know you don’t have to act so jealous, just because I –“

“He’s too young for you – ” Taesan states, before smirking to himself.

“- halmoni”

Gyuvin has to hold Nakyoung down from attacking Taesan across the table for calling her a grandma.

Feeling stuffed after their meal, they exit the restaurant, a mix of dizziness, tiredness and fullness hitting them as soon as they stand up from their seats.

Gyuvin jokingly pushes out his stomach as much as he can, looking like he’s going to give birth any second now. Laughing, they all follow suit, joking around, feeding off the good aura of their environment.

Taesan laughs so hard he stumbles backwards a bit.

A bit too far, actually.

He missteps and trips over the steps behind him. He tumbles down a few steps, the sharp pain of the concrete steel stabbing into his back and sides and arms as he continues to fall down the stairs. Landing a quarter of the way down, he ends his fall with a hit to the back of his head, sending an extra sensitive wave of pain rough through his body. Crouched up in pain on the cold floor, he holds at the back of his head.

“Shit, fuck, are you okay???” Gyuvin bolts down the stairs to check on Taesan, Nakyoung not far behind.

“Yeah, I’m fine”. I’m fine. Pushing himself up to sit upright, his right arm shoots with pain.

Winching, his arm hurts like a bitch, and his head is even worse.

“Maybe we should go to the hospital,” Nakyoung suggests, after seeing the red marks on Taesan’s arms and neck.

“Maybe, yeah.”

Oh, but wait, can he even go to a normal hospital? What if they find out he’s a vampire? Surely they would know.

“Wait—”

Taesan takes his phone out of his pocket; the front glass is completely fucked. Mentally cursing but ignoring it for now, he gives Ricky a call. He asks Ricky about what hospital he can go to, being as subtle as he can with the two humans in front of him.

Ricky catches his drift and tells him to go to his private doctor, who will be expecting them.

Taesan waddles between gyuvin and Nakyoung, arms wrapped in either sides limping on the way to the car. Gyuvin drives them to the hospital, waiting in the waiting room with Nakyoung as Taesan gets seen to.

Taesan’s sitting in one of the rooms, the doctor examining the bruises on his arms, torso and head, making sure he’s okay.

She gives him antibiotics, wraps his arms and hooks a bunch of different IV bags, one clear, one with a medication of some sort and one with blood. After she’s done fully examining him, she puts his arm in a sort of wrap, limiting his movement.

Ricky shows up to the hospital in the middle of Taesan getting his arm wrapped. Greeting the nurse, he waits for her to finish up and leave the room.

“How are you feeling?” Ricky takes the seat next to the bed to talk to him.

“I’m fine, really –“

Jaehyun and Sungho burst through the door, followed by Gyuvin and Nakyoung.

Jaehyun and Sungho run to his side, basically pushing Ricky out of the way, asking him if he’s okay, Jaehyun looking like he’s about to burst into tears seeing Taesan in a hospital bed.

Standing now, Gyuvin locks eyes with Ricky, having a gay awakening of some sort. He’s staring at Ricky with his big eyes, swallowing nervously, Ricky staring back at him shyly, the tips of his ears turning a bright red.

The nurse comes back in to do some final checks on him, asking that everyone is to kindly wait in the waiting room.

Leehan suddenly shows up frantically. He’s running through the hospital hallways until he spots familiar faces in one waiting room.

“Where is he? “ Leehan says, out of breath from running, he looks panicked.

Sungho gets up to show him which room, checking if they’re done. The nurse exited the room at that moment. Greeting the boys.

“Your boyfriend’s here.” Sungho pops his head into the room, letting Taesan know. Placing his hand on the door, slowly pushing the door open for Leehan to peek inside.

Leehan breathes out before speed-walking inside onto the chair beside his bed.

Running to Taesan’s side, eyes fearfully scanning Taesan’s body, spotting the cast on his arms, and the IV bags, looking super worried.

“Taesan, are you okay?” Leehan leans his face in close, eyes dancing around his face, checking for any stretches on his face. The worry in his eyes is evident. The sight alone pulls at Taesan’s heartstrings a bit at the sight.

The rest of the friend group walks in, eyeing Taesan and Leehan, how close they are and Leehan's grin on the side of the bed, the slight pink creeping up on Taesan’s cheeks.
Sungho and Jaehyun give each other a side eye, very suspicious of the two in front of them.

“What did the doctor say?” Nakyoung asks.

Taesan’s face snaps towards the door; moving his head slightly away from Leehan, Leehan pulls away as well, leaning into the back of the seat.

“Guys, I’m okay –” Taesan uses his okay arm as a gesture for them to relax. “I just need rest, and I sprained my wrist”, Taesan says calmly.

“I’ll be fine.”

The group relaxes a bit, Leehan and Jaehyun still very fidgety, their nerves completely fried.

They’re all made to leave after a while due to hospital rules.

-°⛧

He’s only staying overnight since they arrived there late to begin with.

Before he can close his eyes to rest properly, he hears the door creak open. The light seeping into the room wakes him up.

A figure swiftly moving inside, disappearing into the darkness. He heard the footsteps get closer to him, the dark shadow standing eerily close. Sitting up, Taesan’s eyes adjusting to the darkness, slowly making out a face.

It’s Leehan.

He’s standing with a blood bag in his hand.

“Do you know how scary you just were? Fuck's sake,” Taesan comments at the sight of him, huffing out a pained airy laugh.

Leehan just walks to sit next to him, pulling the chair as close as possible to the bed. “I just thought you might be hungry; can’t exactly just leave this on your counter this time.”

Taesan’s eyes linger on Leehan’s face. Even in the middle of the night he looks ethereal, his long eyelashes dusting his cheeks when he blinks; his downturned eyes are so soft and pretty, he swears he can see the stars reflecting off them. His eyebrows are slightly raised in the middle, scrunching together to show his worry. His lips –

Taesan snaps himself out of those thoughts. He’s not supposed to be swooning over him. He’s supposed to still be pissed off.

But he can’t help it that Leehan is just too pretty.

Leehan tried to hand Taesan the blood bag absentmindedly, only clocking after that Taesan’s arm can’t really provide function right now.

“Oh, right.” Leehan, embarrassed at his mistake, hums as he looks around; he spots a cup and gets to work tearing open the bag and pouring the warm liquid into the cup.

Standing up, he leans forward, aiming the cup towards Taesan’s lips.

Is this really happening? How embarrassing.

“Are you trying to feed me?” Taesan flushes a light pink in his cheeks, eyes wide and lips agape in shock of what’s happening.

“Do you want to try doing it yourself?” Leehan responds in a teasing tone, motion at his wrapped up arm; earning him a slight glare.

Pressing the cup forward, Taesan parts his lips, accepting his fate. The warm blood pouring into his mouth has Taesan closing his eyes and sighing in relief. The essence seeping into his body instantly relaxing and relieving his pain, the feeling of life and warmth coming back to him. Fuck. Taesan lets out a low hum in satisfaction as he finishes the cup. Leehan instantly filling it again with the rest of the blood.

Taesan’s eyes are low and heavy as he watches Leehan pour more blood into the cup. The taste making him feel desperate and craving more. Pulling his lips in a tight line, he licks at the blood remaining on them. He stares at Leehan with sultry eyes as the cup kisses his mouth again. Holding the stare firmly for a second too long. He catches Leehan’s eyes watches his Adam’s apple bob up and down as he drinks, before his eyes flutter closed, indulging in the taste of the blood once more.

As Leehan pulls the cup away, Taesan is licking at his lips again, savouring the remaining blood smeared on his lips, tongue flicking over his fang. He doesn’t miss how Leehan's eyes hold on his tongue.

Leehan reaches over to wipe some blood off the corner of his lips with his thumb, then places the digit into his mouth absentmindedly. Oh. Leehan stares intensely back at Taesan as he sucks on his thumb.

What the fuck.

Taesan’s eyes are blown out at the sight, snapping his head away to collect himself before he does something stupid. What’s his problem?

Leehan cleans up, rinsing the cup in the sink in the room; Leehan wipes his hands dry before collecting the plastic bag. Taesan watching his movements carefully.

“Get better soon, okay?”, Leehan says sweetly, as he’s standing closer to the door now, ready to leave.

“Thank you.” Taesan smiles at Leehan, slightly warmer than before. Leehan nods a smile back. “I’ll see you tomorrow,” Leehan says before closing the door behind him, leaving Taesan alone with his thoughts.

What was that?

Taesan’s body falls back into bed, sleep washing over him, his dreams that not anything but innocent.

Chapter Text

“You’re the one that turned him, right?”

Leehan stops dead in his tracks, Ricky’s voice catching him by surprise. Turning around, Ricky's leaning against the wall, one foot propped up.

Well, that’s just great.

“I–“ Leehan stops himself, words catching in his throat. Feeling the weight of the guilt wash over him, he turns to fully face Ricky.

“Did he tell you?”

Ricky pushes himself off the wall as he steps in his direction. “Actually, you kind of did.” Ricky gives Leehan a tight-lipped smile as he walks past him. Leehan’s eyebrows furrowing up in confusion, he walks after Ricky.

“What do you mean I did?” Leehan jogs to walk next to Ricky, holding the conversation.

“I saw one of your notes, so it wasn’t hard to put together,” Ricky responds nonchalantly. “Especially when you sign your name at the bottom.” A smirk appearing on Ricky’s face as he watches for Leehan’s reaction.

Leehan, you idiot.

Leehan stops in his tracks, closing his eyes, and curses himself out. He completely forgot about the fact that Ricky always delivers the blood bags in the mornings. If anything, they were bound to jump into each other during the routine.

“Anyway, I just wanted to ask you something that I know Taesan wouldn’t have asked.”

Leehan follows after him as they walk away from campus, onto the paved walkways outside. He’s fidgeting more, nerves getting the best of him. “Uhm, sure, what is it?” Leehan responds, chewing on his bottom lip as he waits.

“You’re not a full vampire, right?” Ricky asks him calmly to make eye contact with him.

Swallowing at the intensity of Ricky’s stare.

“I’m only, like, half vam—“ Leehan manages to say before being cut off.

“Ahhh, that makes sense. I knew that would be the case considering how weak of a vampire Taesan is.” Ricky says, clapping his hands together, “No offence.”

Leehan can only weakly laugh before going forward again.

“Tell me about being a half-blood.”

-°⛧

Taesan's standing outside the hospital, the wrap being replaced with a small blue wrist brace. It’s the evening now; he’s missed all his classes. Hopefully one of his friends let the school know what happened.

Staring at his phone, a car comes rolling up next to him, Sungho rolling down the window to greet him.

“How are you feeling?” Sungho asks, sneaking quick glances his way as he drives. “I’m all good, of course, just my wrist.” Taesan flashes him a smile, waving his braced wrist at Sungho.

“Guess who visited me last night.”

“Your boyfriend?” Sungho slyly says with a smirk sneaking its way into his face. Taesan kisses his teeth at Sungho’s response, choosing to ignore it and continue.

“He brought me blood and then fed it to me,” Taesan says, eyes widening as the words escape his mouth.

“Fed you? by hand? ” Sungho’s mouth falls open, blinking rapidly and watching him nod his head for too long to be legal for driving.

“Wow, He’s really down bad for you.”

Taesan’s face contorts, the corner of his mouth pulling up, disgust written all over it. “Don’t say that,” Taesan says, crossing his arms against his chest, “he just feels bad.”

Stopping at a red light, Sungho takes the opportunity to dead stare at him. “There’s feeling bad, and then there’s being in love with you.” Sungho pulls the sun visor down to check his face. “And I saw how he looked at you last night,” he says, giving Taesan side eye, closing the sun visor and continuing to drive.

In love? Oh, please.

-°⛧

“So I learnt more about your condition.” Ricky places down the warm blood bag he collected from Leehan that morning, making an agreement the day before so that he can have a chat with Taesan.

Taesan’s surprisingly up early, greeting Ricky with half a toothbrush hanging out of his mouth. He’s sporting his typical uniform of black sweatpants and a white tank top. Returning from the bathroom, he pats his face dry with the towel around his neck, he walks into the kitchen area, sitting by the island, messing with his phone.

“You’re a half-blood,” Ricky continues. Now that gets Taesan fully paying attention. “What’s that?” Taesan squints his eyes, head locks onto him a bit harder, waiting for him to continue.

“You.” Ricky says in a sarcastic tone, “You’re half vampire, half human,” Ricky states as his hands work to pour Taesan a big mug of blood and himself a small cup.

“You’re not immortal, and you don’t have any powers, like super speed or shape-shifting, unfortunately. You don’t get burnt up in the sun easily, though, so that’s good.” Ricky pauses to think, “Oh, and you can go about 3 days without feeding before actually losing control –“ Ricky fixes his eyes on Taesan as he passes the mug his way, “But we don’t want that.”

“Let’s just be careful, okay? Wouldn’t want you turning people,” Ricky jokes, lifting the small cup to his lips. Taesan followed suit, taking a sip from his mug. Both of them humming at how refreshing the blood tastes.

“So when were you going to tell me Leehan turned you?” Ricky places the cup down on the island, eyebrows raised with a straight face looking at Taesan.

“How did you— “ Taesan’s body freezes up, holding the mug in mid-air, his face turned to study Ricky’s face.

“I had a fat chat with him; he’s the one that told me all these little facts about half-bloods.”

Taesan places his mug down on the table, inhaling deeply, placing both of his hands on his legs and lowering his head.

“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you – Taesan starts, “I got caught up with school and the hospital an— “ Stopping himself from rambling more, he looks back up at Ricky, examining his face.

“I’m sorry for not telling you myself.”

“Don’t beat yourself up; it’s not that deep; I’m just teasing you.” Ricky winks at him before chugging the remains in the tiny cup.

Ricky and Taesan walk to campus together that morning, stopping near the front of Ricky’s first class.

Gyuvin suddenly jogs up to the two, greeting Taesan, but his eyes are locked on Ricky. Taesan is looking at him confused.

Why’s he here? Their class is on the opposite side of campus.

“Why are you this side of campus?“ Taesan asks, Gyuvin’s face moving between Taesan and Ricky as a blush creeps up his neck, “Uhm—“. His focus goes back onto Ricky, ignoring Taesan’s question, “I saw you the other night, right? Kim Gyuvin” Gyuvin offers up a handshake, a little too formal, causing there to be a slight awkwardness about their interaction.

Ricky’s eyes are moving between his face to his outstretched hand, but still returning the awkward handshake, with a sweet smile attached to it.

“Shen Ricky”

Taesan dies on the inside at the weirdness of the two in front of him; they’re just staring at each other now, studying each other’s faces as if it’s the last time they’ll see each other. Breaking the silence, Ricky’s reminder on his phone goes off, snapping the two out of their staring contest.

“I have to head to class now,” Ricky announces, “it was nice meeting you.” His eyes look softly at Gyuvin, turning into crescents as he smiles at both of them before leaving.

“You’re so embarrassing,” Taesan says before walking down the hallway towards their class. Gyuvin runs to join him after he watches Ricky’s figure fully disappear out of his vision.

-°⛧

Gyuvin and Nakyoung are arguing about something stupid in front of him, the two of them always butting heads about something and then geeking over a musician they both like 5 seconds later. Taesan enjoys the banter; it makes him miss his younger brother.

Ending nice and early in the day, they exit the lecture room. Mentally planning what he’ll do for the rest of the day – study a bit, maybe catch up on some episodes of shows he’s been letting pile up for a good day – he’s basically got the whole day ahead of him. Walking out of the class, he catches a strong whiff of something.

What’s that?

The smell goes straight to his stomach; an extreme feeling of hunger boils inside him. An almost agonising hunger. Feeling like the wind was knocked out of him, he’s hunched over a bit. His senses start peaking out of nowhere, becoming hyper-aware of the people around him. He can hear their heartbeats; he can smell their blood. His head feeling dizzy from the overwhelming noise and scents rushing past him. He’s struggling.

It’s too much; he’s feeling too much.

What the fuck is going on?

His mind snaps out of it; everything around him becomes hazy. A strong smell snaps him to focus, pulling him in. It’s sweet, floral and enticing. His body moves before his mind can register, his feet leading him towards the gymnasium.

Opening the door, he watches as the volleyball players start to round together and practise. Seunghan spots him and gestures for him to come sit down, recognising him from one of their shared classes. The acknowledgement bringing him out of his trance.

“What brings you here?” Seunghan asks him, chugging a bit of his water.

Taesan shakes his head, trying to focus on what Seunghan is saying. “Oh, I’m here to watch Gyuvin play.” He tries his best to sound as believable as possible.

Gyuvin, with his perfect timing, walks into the gymnasium, immediately spotting Taesan, tilting his head to the side.

“Why are you this side of campus?” Gyuvin asks in a mocking tone, nodding his head back and forth as he teases Taesan.

“Can’t I just come and watch my friend play volleyball?”

Gyuvin smirks, playing with a volleyball he found on the floor, “You sure you’re not here to watch Leehan play?”

Seunghan’s face lights up in surprise, facing Taesan again, “You like Leehan? I thought you had a girlfriend.”

“Girlfriend?” Gyuvin's head snaps on Seunghan, “What made you think that?”

“The girl that was always hanging on your arm, with the black hair, I thought “ Seunghans cut off, as Gyuvin pulls a terrified face out, “Dude, ew, no. This one’s in love with our blonde.”

Taesan’s face goes pink, embarrassed from being in the spotlight. “As if you’re not in love with my blonde,” Gyuvin’s face saturates even more, making haste to walk off to the changing rooms, not making eye contact with Taesan as he leaves.

Flustered on top of everything, his senses pick up again. The smells of everyone’s blood and sweat are all mixing together, their heartbeats pumping fast and loud as they practise. It’s chaotic and all over the place. Until Leehan moves into his space. Swiftly hitting a ball that almost lands on Taesan, away.

It’s him.

Of course it is.

He can hear his heart beating fast as he runs around the court. His scent instantly seeps into his nose; the sweetness mixes with a musky smell that excites Taesan.

He can barely control himself.

Leehan hears Taesan’s heart beating fast, his head snapping towards him in an instant. Locking eyes, both of them are breathing heavily, eyes hanging a little low, too low to be innocent.

Leehan’s eyes linger on Taesan for a beat before turning his attention back to practice.

Taesan is battling himself; the pull is so intense. His body wants more; to completely consume Leehan, his scent is so intoxicating, his fangs keep pushing out and aching the more he inhales.

There are too many people in the gymnasium for him to be acting this strange.

He needs to get out.

Holding one hand over his mouth and the other over his nagging stomach, he rushes to the bathroom, making some excuse to Seunghan.

Standing in front of the faucet, he’s staring at his teeth in the mirror. His fangs are aching. Painting and pushing out more than he’s seen before, becoming longer and appearing sharper. Closing his mouth, he splashes some water onto his face.

What the fuck is happening?

Light from outside seeps into the bathroom before disappearing just as fast. Turning his gaze towards the door, he sees Leehan standing in the door frame.

Leehan notices how Taesan’s body tenses up at seeing him. His eyes going a bit wider, his hand slapping over his mouth, looking intensely in the corner away from Leehan. Leehan gets worried, seeing how strange Taesan is acting.

“Are you okay?” Leehan takes steps closer to him, getting closer than Taesan can handle.

“I’m fine just – “

Leehan grabs onto Taesan’s non-injured wrist, pulling it away from his mouth. Their eyes dancing around together as they take in each other's faces. Taesan’s heart beats impossibly harder, locking eyes with Leehan like this, this close, causes a red flush over Taesan’s entire face, bleeding into his neck and ears.

On top of everything, Leehan looks delicious. Sweat from playing volleyball making his skin glimmer in the horrible lighting of the bathroom.

He’s too close; his scent is too strong; the skin contact even feels like it’s burning him. He can hear Leehan’s heart pulsing, loud and clear. He can’t handle this.

Something dangerous flickers in his eyes. He launches towards Leehan, pushing him against the sink. Leehan’s hands hold onto the edges of the sink, steadying himself against the porcelain. Taesan’s fangs are out in their full length, his breath tickling against the skin on Leehan's shoulder. He’s trying so hard to control himself.

The sound of voices outside the door snaps Taesan out of it, looking directly into Leehan’s, panic completely wiping over them.

Leehan grabs onto Taesan’s hips, pushing them both into a stall, shutting the door behind them and locking them inside. The tight space has him pinning Taesan against the wall, one hand on his hip and another next to his waist.

Taesan’s face is stuffed into Leehan’s neck. The smell is the most intense it’s been all day. Taesan can barely take it; the close proximity and how Leehan is pressed up on him make his mind go to ungodly places, and he’s struggling in every way. His fangs are lashing out, his body trying its best to resist the urge to eat Leehan alive.

The noises dimmer down as the guys leave the bathroom. Leehan pushes himself off of Taesan, letting his hand fall to unlock the door. Exiting the bathroom, Leehan huffs out, looking back at Taesan, who’s still standing in the bathroom stall.

Taesan looks fucked out. His eyes are low, his fangs peaking out on top of his bottom lip, his clothing slightly dishevelled.

“Come with me,” Leehan says, walking out of the bathroom.

Taesan can’t be bothered to protest, to question, or to do anything; he’ll accept  anything Leehan’s willing to give him.

Needs something from him right now.

Walking into Leehan’s dorm, the layout is similar to his, just a bit smaller. That’s not what Taesan notices first, though. Leehan’s smell is even more potent here. He can smell him everywhere. His stomach growls at him harshly, punching and pulling hard, instantly hunching him over in pain.

Leehan watches him, understanding what’s happening. Leehan hesitantly stands in front of Taesan, looking at him with dark, heavy eyes.

He reaches his hand out to grab Taesan by the arm. As soon as their skin touches, Taesan’s brain starts becoming looser. He’s being pulled towards the couch, Leehan sitting down first, man-spreading just enough for Taesan’s leg to slot in perfectly. Leehan pulls him further, his other leg falling to straddle Leehan’s leg. Panicking, he puts his hands on his shoulders to keep himself up.

Before Taesan can protest, Leehan’s tilting his head to the side, exposing his long neck to Taesan. Taesan’s eyes trace down the veins on his neck, Leehan’s pulse so loud to his ears. Biting hard into his lip and closing his eyes, he tries to resist, but the scent coming from Leehan is driving him insane.

Leehan pulls Taesan’s neck down. “Go ahead,” he whispers softly into his ear, breath tickling his skin.

Opening his eyes was a mistake. Leehan’s staring at him, eyes opened ever so slightly. The sultry gaze sent chills down Taesan’s spine. Leehan looks so fucking good right now, staring at him as if he wants this just as badly as he does.

Fuck, what are they doing right now?

Taesan’s sprained wrist slips, his head falling into the spot Leehan’s head is tilted away from. Leehan’s hands fly up to hold his waist firmly. The smell punches at his insides; his body is craving Leehan. Leehan’s neck is presented so prettily for him. Shit.

Inhaling deeply, the sweet scent intoxicating and addictive, he wonders how sweet his blood tastes in his mouth. Wonders how he would react to him ripping him open and drinking him up. Wonders if he wants that as well.

Taesan’s fangs are pushing through again, paining and aching. Huffing over Leehan's neck, he grazes his sharp teeth against the skin. Taking a brace lick over his arrery, he feels the pulse bounce on his tongue.

Whatever string that was holding him together snaps.

He pierces into Leehan, tearing his skin open, hot liquid pouring into his mouth. The blood seeping into his taste buds feels soft, warm and nostalgic. He tastes like honey. Taesan’s body feels hot; the furnace inside his gut ignited, burning him from the inside out. Taesan moans as he takes everything in, pushing himself as close to Leehan as he can. He tastes better than anything he could have ever imagined. Leehan's fingers tightened on his waist, groaning at the puncture. The slight pain from Leehan’s nails causes Taesan to jerk his hips against Leehan’s legs. They both moan at the friction, feeling a chill crawl down his spine; his sucking becomes more frantic. He’s savouring every gasp and moan that escapes Leehan's lips, the sounds infecting his brain.

All he can think about is Leehan. How good he tastes. How good he smells. How good he feels. The way his big hands wrap almost fully around his waist, the way his breath trickles on his skin, and the way his body moves against his. Every sense of Taesan completely taken over by Leehan.

Leehan’s moaning and panting, face buried into Taesan’s shoulder, enjoying the feeling too. Taesan’s mouths on his neck as he drinks from him, grinding harder into his leg, moaning in satisfaction. Thinking about what happened at the hospital, the dream he had –

Fuck, he needs to calm down.

Taesan breaks away from his neck, high on the taste of Leehan. He licks at the wound, gathering the blood with his tongue, moaning as he takes in the last bit of blood. He pants into his neck, trying his best to steady himself.

He’s painfully hard. Leehan adjusts his body underneath him, Taesan groaning at the movement, struggling to control himself.

He lifts his head weakly to look up at Leehan, making direct eye contact. His eyes are low, a blush dusting across his cheeks, hair slightly damper than before.

Flustered, he gets up from Leehan’s lap to sit next to him on the couch. He takes his bottom lip into his mouth, he can still taste Leehan on his lips.

“I’m sorry, I got carried away.” Taesan mumbles, pulling his T-shirt lower.

“Don’t bother.” Leehan pushes himself to sit upright a bit better, grabbing a cushion to put over his lap. Leehan’s eyes scanning Taesan’s face and his body, leaving him with a soft smile. His smile turns into something mischievous as his eyes land on Taesan’s hands, still holding the hem of his shirt. “Don’t worry so much; I know it’s your first time feeding like this.”

Taesan’s brain fries, huffing out a breath he was holding. His face flashes pink out of embarrassment, thinking about how he just acted. Moaning and grinding on Leehan like an animal, what the fuck is wrong with him?

Taesan hides his face in his hands, almost dies of embarrassment thinking about how he got hard just from drinking Leehan’s blood.

“So I taste that good, huh?”

Chapter Text

Taesan spent the past few weeks studying hard. A mix of days being spent in his dorm surrounded by books, the library in a similar situation or at Sungho’s place studying, but now he can enjoy the sweet taste of freedom.

He hasn’t spoken or seen much of Leehan since that day in his dorm. Only greeting him in passing, just missing him in the mornings as he escapes the dorm room.

At least he still gets to enjoy the warm blood bags.

Nothing compares to how good Leehan tastes. The warmth and life that seeps into his bloodstream is unmatched. He wipes the thought from his brain, chugging the last drops of the bland liquid down his throat.

Today’s the first fun thing the school has thrown for them. The volleyball team did so well this season, winning their games and doing well with sponsors. The university called for a celebration in the form of a university fair/carnival of some sort.

All Taesan knows is that Jaehyun is most excited about all the rides and snacks that they all need to try.

Jaehyun, with hooked arms around Taesan and Sungho, pulls the trio through the entrance, all sporting their light blue varsity jackets. They make their way quickly through the snack stand, grabbing drinks and churros each, Taesan indulging just to make Jaehyun happy.

On their way to the bumper cars, they spot Gyuvin and Ricky at one of the stalls playing a game involving shooting balloons to win plushies. Gyuvin hands over a massive white cat with black and yellow spots to Ricky, the cute gesture that makes Taesan’s heart melt. Good for him; he deserves to be treated well.

“There go my chances,” Jaehyun says, putting on his saddest puppy eyes.

“Oh please, it was game over the second those two locked eyes,” Sungho says, biting into his churro.

The group is joined by Riwoo, Hanbin, his boyfriend Zhang Hao and their friend Taerae, who absolutely destroyed them in bumper cars. Flinging them left, right and centre, Taerae had everyone drifting away from him.

After hours of playing games, going on all the rides Jaehyun had a bucket list of and participating in every photo booth scattered around, the group settles down for a ride on the Ferris wheel. Ricky and Gyuvin joined them halfway through their carnival ride frenzy. Jaehyun is carrying 3 big stuffed animals they’ve all won and given to him; they stand in line looking ridiculous, but they’re too happy to be bothered.

With the sun setting, the moment couldn’t be better for a ride on the Ferris wheel. Sungho and Riwoo are paired up together, and Ricky and Gyuvin, leaving Jaehyun and Taesan to sit together. Well, that would be the case if Jaehyun didn’t run to the bathroom last second. After eating all those snacks and then riding the roller coaster, it did a number on his stomach.

Taesan is standing alone, impatiently waiting for him to return; however, the minutes are piling up, and the ride conductor is becoming increasingly frustrated with the boy. The man motions for Taesan to join a random cart instead of holding up the line, and Taesan, not wanting to upset anyone, obliges.

Maybe he would have put up more of a fight if he’d seen who he’d be carting with.

Of course it’s Leehan. Life loves to put him in these situations.

Leehan sits alone in the cart, eyes flickering his way as the conductor pushes him into the carriage. Leehan’s sporting a black T-shirt, with blue ripped jeans and basic black Converse. His outfit is so simple, yet he looks like a model off duty, his hair sweeping across his cheeks so perfectly and his face straight out of a magazine.

Of course this happens.

-°⛧

Leehan shows up with the rest of the team, in high spirits. Most of their friends coupling up with their partners and scattering around the fair. The rest of the team are gathering together to participate in games and rides together.

Leehan has fun hanging closely to Gunwook, Seunghan, Niki and Heeseung. Playing ring toss, balloon darts and some random water gun shooting game, the group becomes closer with each loss they take together.

“You’ve got good aim off court too, huh?” Heeseung leans against the booth, teasing Leehan, who just laughs the compliment off.

“Are you joking? He sucks ass.” Gunwook responds, watching, and Leehan misses 70% of his shots. The guys are all joking around with each other, poking fun any time someone messes up and cheering at their very occasional wins. At least these don’t count in court.

The fun day was going so well.

Now he’s sitting with his knees knocking against Taesan’s as the cart moves, and all he can think about is the man in front of him. A heavy awkwardness weighing over them, Taesan looking extremely tense, Leehan not entirely sure how to defuse the situation. It’s been a while since they spoke; the elephant in the room is staring them dead in the eyes at this point.

The cart shakes violently as it comes to a halt, causing Taesan’s body to fly forward. His hand grabbing onto Leehan for stability, making skin-to-skin contact with his exposed knees in his ripped jeans.

Leehan’s hands hover underneath Taesan’s body in precaution. A smile grows on his face at Taesan’s clumsiness, finding it quite cute.

“Woah, you’re falling for me already?” Leehan smirks at his own joke, voice sounding more mischievous than ever. Well, that’s one way to break the ice.

Looking up at Leehan, the smirk on his face makes him both weak and annoyed at the same time. God, he’s so annoying.

“Oh, you don’t have to worry about that.” Taesan rolls his eyes.

“Oh, really? I wouldn’t be saying that with those pretty sounds you were making,” Leehan responds, poking his tongue in his cheek, slyly. Taesan’s face flushes red, his grip a bit tighter on Leehan’s kneecaps.

Why does he have to bring up that embarrassing moment now, when he can’t run away?

“You were moaning too; you’re no better,” Taesan says defensively, pushing himself up a bit.

“Yeah, well, it’s not every day I have a pretty boy sitting in my lap.” Leehan bites on his lip a bit, staring him up and down.

What’s his issue?

“Oh my god, just shut up.” Taesan bows his head, finally letting go of Leehan's knees to thread his hands through his hair, staring at the metal bottom of the cart.

Leehan hooks his finger under Taesan’s chin, pulling his face up to look him in the eye. Their faces are impossibly close, Taesan’s breath catching in his throat, eyes moving panicky between Leehan’s eyes.

“Why don’t you make me?” Leehan says with low eyes. His deep, sultry voice hitting Taesan in his guts; the implications of Leehan’s words making Taesan’s brain short-circuit. Taesan’s heart starts pulsating; Leehan’s scent hits him, a flush of memories from their last encounter floating in his mind. His mind running back to how good Leehan sounded moaning under him added that it was him pulling those sounds from Leehan’s mouth. Heat starts pooling in his stomach at the thought.

The tension between them shifts to something else. Something more intense. He looks too good right now to be this close. Taesan curses to himself, blinking back into Leehan’s eyes, the sunset casting golden flares into his irises. His blonde hair shining like a halo around his face. The sunset behind them painted a romantic scene that Taesan could so easily fall for.

Leehan’s eyes hold onto Taesan’s lips for a second too long. Leehan’s eyes are even more intense than before. Taesan's eyes flicker down, daring to look at Leehan’s pretty lips opening as he slides his tongue over his fangs.

Fuck it.

Taesan snaps forward, colliding their lips together. A rush of heat spreads from his chest, the butterflies in his stomach exploding, Leehan’s soft pillowy lips slotting in perfectly with his. His nerves and muscles instantly relaxing as he melts into the kiss. Leehan kisses back harder, hand moving to cup Taesan’s jaw. The kiss is so soft, yes, to desperate electricity sparking between their lips.

Taesan’s not sure if it’s the height or if he’s going crazy, but he feels like he’s floating, his senses completely taken over.

Taesan’s hands reach up to sandwich Leehan’s face as Leehan’s other hand sneaks to tug at his waist, pulling him onto his lap. Taesan moans hungrily against Leehan’s mouth, feeling Leehan’s hands against his skin and the bulge forming underneath him. Fuck, this is driving him insane.

The cart swings a bit, causing Taesan to shriek and Leehan to huff out a laugh, smiling against Taesan’s mouth, holding him securely in his lap. Leehan takes the opportunity to kiss at Taesan’s neck, hands sitting shyly under the hem of Taesan’s top. Taesan throws his head back, letting out a high-pitched gasp. Their bodies pressed so tightly together, the thuds of their soft heartbeats combining.

“You’re so pretty like this, baby.” Leehan breathes out against Taesan’s neck.

Leehan licks a stripe up his vein before returning to kiss his lips with newfound vigour. Taesan swoons into the kiss, shuddering at the suddenness of the nickname, blood rushing straight to his dick. The pressure in his pants is getting even tighter.

Taesan’s hips buck forward, grinding down against Leehan. The movement earned him a pretty hum vibrating from Leehan’s throat. His arms wrap around Leehan’s neck as his kisses become sloppier. Leehan’s hands move to Taesan’s hips, constricting Taesan’s movements to slow, torturous grinds. His tongue licks at Taesan’s bottom lip, pulling at it with his sharp fang, begging to enter. Opening his mouth, Leehan’s tongue slips inside, exploring and mixing their taste together.

Taesan feels like he’ll explode in his pants before this can go anywhere. The feeling of Leehan’s tongue against his, the way Leehan pulls and sucks on his tongue so eagerly, is more than Taesan can handle.

Breaking the kiss, a string of saliva keeps them connected. Panting hot and heavy, Taesan licks up his lips, holding devilish eye contact. The ride begins to move once more, Taesan running his hand down Leehan’s chest and clothed abs before sitting opposite him again. His heart's beating so fast against his rib cage; even his temperature has risen. Leehan’s hooded eyes stare back at him with a sinister gaze as he bites hard on his bottom lip and breathes out heavily.

Reaching the bottom of the ride, Leehan and Taesan look like a hot mess, face flushed red and hair a bit tangled. They definitely catch a few looks as they exit the ride.

Taesan couldn’t care, though; he’s on a mission now.

Taesan immediately grabbed Leehan’s arm, dragging him through the campus grounds towards the dorm buildings. Leehan allowed himself to be tossed and dragged around , running after him like a lost puppy.

As soon as the door to Taesan’s dorm locks closed, he’s pinned hard against the door. Leehan's hands are on his waist, mauling at his neck like an animal. A shiver runs down Taesan’s spine as he feels Leehan’s wet tongue drag across his skin. His heart's beating out of his chest, his hand at the back of Leehan’s neck, pulling him closer in, flushing their bodies together. Returning back to Taesan’s mouth, there’s a fire sparking between the two, their desires becoming one, bodies drawing together.

Leehan lifts Taesan up, hands holding him firmly by the back of his thighs, Taesan’s legs wrapping around his waist. The kisses become sloppier and more desperate, broken words and moans mixing together. The easiness with which Leehan picks him up has him imagining what else Leehan could do to him.

Pin him down. Fuck him hard into his mattress. Choke him till he bruises.

He wants him badly.

Leehan places him down on the couch, climbing on top of him and slotting himself between Taesan’s legs. The kiss breaks, both of them panting into each other's mouths, not wanting to pull away. Leehan moves down to kiss at Taesan’s neck again, sucking hickeys into the skin. Leehan’s fangs drag out into his skin, his attention back onto Taesan’s lips.

Leehan moves up to nip his lip teasingly, sucking the small beads of blood out; Taesan's hips buck forward at the action. Gasping, the electricity flowing from his lips down to his chest has his voice shaky. Licking at the wound, Leehan attaches himself down to Taesan’s collarbone, sucking bruising red marks into the skin. Leehan’s hand sneaking down to palm Taesan’s dick through the fabric of his pants.

“ Leehan”, Taesan gasps at the touch. “ Please ,” he whispers into his ear, eyes pleading.

“Tell me what you want, baby.” Leehan stares up at him, a smirk forming, his teasing, flirty nature shining through. Taesan stares at him half-lidded, eyes watering.

“Please—“ Taesan bites hard on his bottom lip, his hips chasing after the pressure of Leehan’s hand. “Touch me.”

Leehan smiles mischievously, his hand slipping past the waistband of Taesan’s underwear. Wrapping his fingers around his length, he rubs his thumb over the head, using the wet bead of precum as he starts slowly stroking him. Taesan’s jaw falls open at the touch, body arching upward, moans engraving into Leehan’s memory.

Leehan props himself on his knees in between Taesan’s legs, one hand holding the side of Taesan’s face as his other hand starts moving faster. Taesan’s mouth hangs open; Leehan takes the chance and sticks his thumb in, and Taesan instinctively sucks on the digit. Leehan closes his eyes, sensation going straight to his dick.

“You’re so hot like this,” Leehan whispers, staring down at him, taking him in. A warmth courses through Taesan’s chest at the praise. Leehan's eye scan over his flush red face, the blooming hickeys, his stomach slightly exposed from his lifted-up shirt and his pink tip sticking out of his underwear. Leehan is painfully hard; the sight alone could push him over the edge. Taesan’s hips snap forwards as he chases his high, hands gripping onto the fabric of the couch. Leehan pulls his thumb out, pulling Taesan's lip down before connecting their lips once more.

Taesan pushes Leehan up, his hand spanning on his chest as he pushes him to lean back. Taesan crawls off the couch and sinks to his knees on the floor in front of Leehan. He hand traces the outline of his bulge, face coming dangerously close to the area. Leehan hisses at the sudden attention to his dick, placing both his legs on either side of Taesan. Taesan’s fingers unbuttoned Leehan’s jeans, tugging the waistband of the jeans down. Leehan lifts his hips up, Taesan pulling his jeans and underwear together to his ankles. Leehan’s dick springs once it’s free, hitting against the bottom of his stomach, hard and pulsating. The pretty pink tip shining with precum.

Shit, Leehan’s big. Concerningly big.

Taesan’s mouth starts watering as he moves closer, wrapping his fingers around Leehan's dick. He licks a stripe on the underside of Leehan’s dick, Leehan letting out a pained sigh. Taesan’s tongue circles around as he reaches the head, sucking gently on the tip. Leehan throws his head back against the couch, his veins pulsating against Taesan’s touch.

He strokes him torturously slow, keeping eye contact as he kisses up the inner part of Leehan’s thigh. Sucking into the skin, he leaves a hickey only Leehan would see. Taesan licks over a vein in his thigh, the smell of Leehan’s blood strong and enticing. A red flash washes over Taesan’s eyes as his fangs extend, sinking his teeth into the skin, tasting the sweet blood. Leehan moans loudly, his hips jerking up in Taesan’s hand, throwing his arm over his face and biting on it.

The blood pooling into his mouth has Taesan's mouth, his whole body on fire. The intoxicating taste of Leehan creeping and blooming inside of him. He tastes so fucking good.

Taesan licks over the wound, cleaning up the blood with his tongue. Licking up the innermost part of his thigh, he trails his way back to Leehan’s dick.

Taesan’s hand stops. Holding Leehan’s dick in his hand, he stares up at him through heavy lids. Leehan groans, looking down with furrowed eyebrows. Catching Taesan’s dangerous gaze, his dick pulses in his hands. The view of his dick being this close to Taesan’s face has him feeling hazy; he’s only seen him like this in his dreams.

“Why’d you stop, baby?” Leehan whispers out.

“I want you to watch me.”

Leehan cusses as he takes his bottom lip into his mouth, eyes hanging low, fixed on Taesan. Taesan tilts his head sideways, licking up Leehan’s dick, holding the eye contact. Hovering above his dick, Taesan wraps his mouth around the length, taking him in fully. Leehan’s body twitches up, his thighs going tense and then relaxing. Taesan’s head is bobbing, hollowing his cheeks, and he pulls upwards, wet noises flooding the room. “Fuck, you’re so good at this—“ Leehan sees stars, bucking up deeper into Taesan’s throat; his hands rush to pull at Taesan’s hair, holding him in place. Taesan’s nose is pressed into Leehan’s skin, eyes tearing up as he swallows around Leehan. It takes everything within Leehan to not cum on the spot.

“Shit, baby,” Leehan breathes out slowly, releasing his grip on Taesan's hair. Almost choking, Taesan gasps for air, hot air fanning on Leehan’s dick.

Leehan pushes himself up to his feet, Taesan’s eyes following him up, a hand coming to firmly wrap around Leehan’s throbbing dick.

“Can I – uh –” Leehan suddenly gets shy, not wanting to say the words out loud.

“Spit it out, or I will.” Taesan hisses.

“Can I—“ Leehan continues, looking a bit worried; his hand comes to hold under Taesan’s chin, “—fuck your face?”

Taesan’s eyes are blown out at the request. Shit . That went straight to his dick. The idea of Leehan taking his face and using his mouth as he pleases made him harder than he’d like to admit. All Taesan can manage out is a nod.

Leehan holds his face as his jaw slacks, placing his heavy cock on Taesan's tongue. The eye contact, making this even more intense and intimate. Leehan rocks his hips slowly in Taesan’s mouth, Leehan holding the back of his head to guide his mouth onto his dick. Leehan keeps a slow, dragging pace as he adjusts to the new angle, Taesan trying his best not to choke. Taesan sucks hard, hollowing his cheeks, pulling moans from Leehan. Taesan stuffs his nose against his skin, Leehan's dick slamming against the back of his throat. Leehan’s hips snap faster as he continues fucking his face in a rhythm. Tears stream down Taesan’s face. Leehan would be worried if it weren’t for Taesan’s moans adding vibrations against his throbbing dick.

Taesan enjoys the choking sensation of Leehan’s dick, holding onto his legs as Leehan uses his mouth. Taesan’s hand sneaks down to rub his neglected cock.

Leehan’s hips start snapping violently, grunting and mumbling curse words as he chases his climax. Pulling harder on Taesan's hair, he’s slamming fast and hard into his mouth, bucking deeper and harder.

“Baby, I’m going to cum—“ Leehan tries to pull his dick out of Taesan’s mouth, but Taesan pushes as deep as he can, the tightness of his throat pushing Leehan over the edge. Jerking hard, a high-pitched moan escapes his mouth as he cums down Taesan’s throat, the hot liquid rushing down his throat and filling his mouth. Stroking himself harder, the taste of Leehan’s cum on his tongue has him coming undone. Sucking on his dick, the groans that escape Leehan’s mouth at the overstimulation are enough for him to reach his own climax. Tipping over the edge, his dick pulses, and he sees white, cumming all over his hand.

Releasing his dick with a pop, he holds eye contact with Leehan. Taesan opens his mouth and sticks out his tongue, showing Leehan his cum in his mouth. He swallows it down, smirking up at Leehan as he kisses the tip of his dick. Leehan goes limp at the sight, body exhausted as he falls back onto the couch, chest raising and lowering fast.

I did that to him

Taesan thinks to himself as he watches him. Try to catch his breath.

Glancing down at Taesan, who’s staring at him, panting in a similar fashion, he reaches forward, cups Taesan’s face and captures his lips on his. The kiss caught Taesan off guard. It’s soft and gentle and, unlike any of their kisses before, a massive contrast to how he just fucked his face. Taesan kisses back, pushing his face upwards, his heart warming.

Leehan looks completely spent; he doesn’t want to think about how he looks right now. Leehan releases his lips as their short kiss ends, his hand still resting on the side of Taesan’s face. This feels strangely nice.

“Was the head that good?” Taesan's voice cracks midway through, his throat abused and bruised.

“Mmm, yeah, you could say that.” Leehan smiles down at Taesan, thumb rubbing over his cheek.

A bang on the door interrupts their moment, both of them feeling their souls jump out of their bodies for a second. “Taesan, open up!” Jaehyun shouts, his voice piercing through the door.

“Shit, I forgot.” Taesan slaps his hand against his face, rubbing it down. “I promised them a movie night after the carnival.”

Jaehyun's banging at the door again. “Give me a sec, geez!” Taesan shouts before getting up on his feet, scanning the room to fix a blanket and pillow onto the couch.

“Uhhh, should I leave?” Leehan says after he cleaned himself up with the box of tissues on Taesan's coffee table.

“No!” “ I mean, uhm… ‘We’re friends, so it’s fine if you stay, right? If you’d like that?”

The word friends sounds like poison leaving his mouth, especially after what they just did. The sight of Leehan tucking himself back into his underwear and pulling pants up alone is far too much for them to just be ‘friends’. However, an hour ago he didn’t even want to talk to Leehan, let alone call him a friend. So it’s a step up, he tells himself.

Leehan looks caught up in his thoughts, brought back to reality. Snapping out of it to smile weakly at Taesan. “Yeah, friends,” Leehan says as he pulls up his zipper.

Maybe he should’ve used a better word. Or just have shut up. He doesn’t know which is better. Why is he even overthinking

“We should clean up before they come in,” Taesan says, Leehan’s eyes locking down at the wet patch on Taesan’s pants, then to his cum-covered hand. Stepping forward, he grabs Taesan’s hand, licking some of his cum off his fingers, tasting Taesan.

what the fuck

Taesan’s body freezes, a cold chill running down his spine. The fire inside his gut reigniting.

“Dude! Not like that.” He pulls his hand away, blushing hard. Leehan laughs before asking where the bathroom is, disappearing as he cleans himself up.

Taesan goes to clean himself up as well, going into his room. He catches his appearance in the mirror, and holy shit, does he look fucked. His hair is a mess, tangled up and sticking to his face, his lips slightly swollen, but the worst is his neck. Blooming red marks trailing down his neck to his collarbone, stare back at him.

What the fuck did he do to me? How am I supposed to cover this up?

After cleaning himself up, he reaches into his wardrobe, grabbing a grey hoodie and black sweatpants. Pulling the hoodie slightly over his head to hide the marks on his neck.

After Leehan emerges from the bathroom,

Taesan goes to answer the door, revealing an impatient Jaehyun, Sungho, and Riwoo, all standing by the doorframe looking up at him.

“Finally,” Jaehyun says, pushing through, his annoyed expression dropping to confusion once he sees Leehan, tilting his head and looking back to flash his eyes at Sungho.

“Great, so I’m fifth-wheeling now?” Jaehyun pushes his way into the dorm, placing his plushies and snacks in the living room. Leehan lets a smile creep up onto his face at Jaehyun's comment.

“It took you long; are you sure nothing was going on in here?” Sungho crosses his arms, staring him up and down. A red blush creeps up his neck, “ No!” Taesan shouts, his voice cracking a bit. Sungho is looking at him suspiciously.

“Oh, hello!” Riwoo smiles brightly at Leehan, eyes turning into crescents. “Are you joining us?”

Everyone’s attention turns to Leehan, Leehan’s eyes darting to each of them.

“Oh, I don’t want to intrude.” Leehan’s voice came out a bit hesitant.

“Of course, you’re not,” Riwoo chirps up.

They all move the couch, Taesan trying not to think about how they just defiled it 20 minutes ago. Jaehyun has taken his favourite spot on the floor, leaning his head against the edge of the couch, with Sungho and Riwoo cuddled up together on one end of the couch and Leehan on the other. Taesan chose to sit on the floor with Jaehyun, sitting directly in front of Leehan. Leehan’s hand has been aimlessly playing with a piece of Taesan’s hair. The touch, though small, has Taesan distracted for the majority of the movie; his heart beats a bit fast when he feels Leehan’s fingers brush against his neck.

Once all the snacks were finished and the credits rolled, Taesan started cleaning up. Leehan’s eyes watching him, handing him the bowls and throwing some snack packets away. The group start stretching their limbs, standing up half asleep already.

“Well, that was kind of bad,” Sungho says, rubbing his eyes with his fists.

“How would you know? You slept through half of it,” Riwoo jokes, poking at his sides teasingly.

They gather their things, getting ready to head home. Standing by the door, Taesan greets them all goodbye, Jaehyun walking out first, followed by Riwoo and Sungho. Leehan hangs behind as they all walk out, standing in the doorway of the dorm. Leehan pulls out his phone, opening his contacts and holding the phone towards Taesan.

Leaning against the door, Taesan crosses his arms, looking at the phone. “Is this how you’re asking for my number?”

“I’m trying to.” Leehan shrugs his shoulders.

Taesan blankly stares at him but takes the phone from his hands and puts in his number, handing it back to him.

Leehan smiles softly at his phone before returning to look at Taesan. Watching the way Leehan’s eyes crinkle at the corners as he smiles, Taesan finds it quite endearing.

“Goodnight, Taesan.” Leehan blinks a smile at him.

“Night” Taesan greets back, watching as Leehan’s figure waves at him before turning the corner, disappearing.

After taking a much-needed shower, Taesan clears his brain to debrief about what he had done that day. Walking out of the bathroom, hair still damp and sticking to his face, he flops down on the bed, staring at the ceiling.

His mind running back to Leehan.

Leehan’s hand tracing over his skin, his lips dragging across his neck. The love bites blooming across his neck and collarbone. His throat raw from how brutal Leehan used it. Thinking back to the wet noises that echoed through the dorm. Blood rushing from his chest, feeling lightheaded and dizzy just from the thought.

Rolling just the bed, he smothers his face into the pillows, groaning.

A ding comes from his phone, his head lifting to turn towards it. Unlocking his phone, the bright light blinds his eyes before they can adjust.

He sees a message from an unknown number.

xxxxxxxx [00:13]

Sleep well <3

Registering the message, this must be Leehan. Not like he gives his number out a lot anyway. Adding the number, he smiles at the cute message and then types back.

Taesan [00:15]

Sleep well too

Leehan [00:15]

Thanks to you, I will ;)

Blushing as he reads the message, he clicks his phone close. Smiling to himself at the thought of his tiring Leehan out, he closes his eyes, exhaustion washing over him as he falls asleep.

Chapter Text

The morning rays beamed down, flooding the room with its warm golden glow. Stretching awake, a strong smell catches his attention.

Moving towards the kitchen, Taesan rubs his eyes, dragging his sock-covered feet across his creaky floorboards.

“Morning, sleepyhead,” Leehan says, smiling sweetly at him from the kitchen, fixing Taesan his daily cup.

Leehan’s half in his pyjamas, dressed as if he’s slept over, hair messily tied up in a tiny ponytail. Taesan’s hair is in no better state, sticking up in every direction, almost mimicking cat ears but still messy.

“Didn’t I say I don’t want to see your face first thing in the morning?” Taesan fake asks, walking to beside Leehan in the kitchen. The warmth of the cup seeping through, warming up his cold hands as he sips the elixir. The warmth provided his comfort and energy despite tasting bland. Yet the blood rushing faster through his body is to be blamed on the handsome man next to him.

The smell of blood that woke him was not the blood he was consuming. Breathing in, he microdoses on Leehan’s sweet scent as he continues to sip.

“Ouch”. Leehan fakes being shot in the heart, grabbing at his chest and wincing his face in pain. “And here I thought we made up.”

Taesan can’t help his lips from turning up into a smile, looking down a bit to hide his amusement. Shaking the smile off his face, he looks down at Leehan, “You’re going to have to try harder.”

Leehan’s eyes travel over Taesan’s face, lingering on his neck. Taesan notices Leehan’s famous smirk creep up his face, mentally preparing himself for

“Was last time not hard enough for you?”

Yup, he knew it.

His eyes snap closed, and he turns to face away from Leehan, a slight blush creeping up his neck. “You’re actually so predictable,” Taesan says, still staring away from him.

“Good, you already know me so well.” Leehan winks at him as he turns to face Leehan again.

“Ugh! Just get out already; I need to get ready for campus,” Taesan says slightly frustrated, but amusement lingers in his sentence.

Leehan scrunches his nose and smiles at him, walking past him towards the door.

“See you later,” Leehan shouts before the door closes, Taesan laughing to himself slightly at their banter, attention switching back to his cup.

-°⛧

If there was ever a time Taesan wished the earth would open up and swallow him down 10 feet under, it would be now.

Jaehyun and Sungho sit opposite him at one of the cafeteria's tables closer to the back of the room, staring him down with crossed arms and scepticism written all over their faces.

“Nothing's going on between us! I hardly know anything about him.” Taesan half shouts at them, hands lifted up as if he’s being searched.

“So you guys didn’t fuck just before we got there?” Sungho asks, his head cocked and an eyebrow raised, eyes trailing down the angry marks on his neck.

“Oh god, no! Why do you think that happened? I – “ Taesan’s complexion completely changed to a bright red, visibly embarrassed.

“Have you seen your neck?” Sungho asks, Taesan pulling the collar of his sweater even higher up his neck, clearly embarrassed.

“What happened?” Ricky cuts in, placing his book bag on the table, sliding in to slot next to Taesan.

“Nothing!“ Taesan shouts louder than he needs.

“Oh, nothing.” Jaehyun rolls his eyes, eyes darting towards Taesan again. “Just how Taesan’s been fucking Leehan behind our backs!“ Jaehyun turns his body to face away from Taesan, wiping a fake tear away from his cheek.

“OH MY GOD!” Taesan shouts, half jumping over the table to get to Jaehyun, Ricky laughing at the weak attempt.

“Oh? I thought you didn’t like him?” Ricky says with a smirk spread across his lips, leaning crossed arms onto the table as he chews on the inner part of his cheek.

“ I don’t!” Taesan sits back down, letting his head fall in his hands, ruffling up his hair. The three others at the table slightly laughing at his misfortune and demise.

Maybe he should start hanging out with Gyuvin more. Listening to him gush over Ricky 24/7 is 100% better than this.

Yeah, that sounds like a good idea.

Jaehyun's face shifts to something a bit more serious as he gets lost in the thoughts, pushing around the food on the plate in front of him.

“I just don’t want you to get hurt.” Jaehyun's eyes flicker up at Taesan, watching his expression stiffen. “I don’t want to see you cry over someone that doesn’t care as much about you as you do for them.”

“Yeah, last time was rough; we were so worried about you,” Sungho adds on.

Ricky sits in silence, the atmosphere feeling too heavy for him to cut in. Ricky’s eyes darted between the three, trying to collect context on the situation.

Noticing how lost Ricky looks, he explains, “I was with someone for 2 years in high school. They kept cheating on me, but I stayed anyway. I don’t actually know why, but I wanted someone to love me, and I thought if I stayed, they’d love me,” pausing to look down at his hands, “but of course that didn’t happen.”

It stung a bit to think back on. More so how he allowed things to carry on, to burn him more than they already had. Creating this idea of love that wasn’t what it was supposed to be or feel like. It took him a while to realise that.

Even if it was a long time ago, it still happened to him, and it still lingers in its effects in his life today.

The table looks at him with sympathy, Ricky nodding as he listens to him talk. “That’s such a shitty thing to go through; I’m so sorry,” Ricky replies, a hand rubbing on Taesan’s back as if to soothe the pain away.

Taesan pulls his body to shift upright. “It’s okay. Shit happens,” the group hums, moving on to another topic to change the subject and lighten the mood again.

Taesan's heart is weighing a little heavier today. His goal to push through the rest of his classes to distract himself.

Before exiting his class, he glances at the door. A familiar figure leaning against the doorframe, looking up at him. Waiting.

Leehan still has his hair tied up, just a bit more presentable looking than before. He looks a little too good, actually. His flannel draped over his tight white t-shirt, cropping just above his low-waisted jeans, exposing a sliver of skin.

“What do you want now?” Taesan says, fake annoyed, snapping out of his trance.

“Can’t I just hang out with my dearest friend?” Leehan scrunches his nose, smiling charmingly at Taesan as they walk together down the hallway.

“Oh, because we do that a lot, right?” Taesan says, rolling his eyes before they land back onto Leehan’s face, walking next to him.

“ I mean, we can,” Leehan pauses, watching over Taesan’s face , “ I’d like that.”

Taesan pauses. Other than just delivering blood and their small greeting, he hasn’t spent time with Leehan like that. Besides when they-

“Sorry I can’t today; I have an anime date with Jaehyun,” Taesan says, kind of relieved that he has an excuse to relax in his house and not feel tense.

“Oh? What anime?” Leehan’s face lights up at the mention, his question coming out more excited than anything.

“Dragon Ball-Z”, a voice from behind them perks up. Jaehyun is pushing himself between the two of them.

“OH YEAH, IT'S TUESDAY!” Leehan's and Jaehyun's faces are beaming at each other at the realisation that they both watch the same show.

He’s starting to get déjà vu.

He doesn’t know how he keeps landing in this situation.

He’s sat on his couch watching Jaehyun and Leehan fan out over the series playing on the big screen. Losing their minds at the fight scenes and discussing/predicting what’s happening.

He feels like his ears are going to pop if he hears one of them shout one more time.

As the show ends, they stand up, stretching their limbs, Jaehyun turning to face Taesan, “Okay, so we’re keeping him.”

He’s so easily swayed. Of course he wouldn’t pass up geeking out over anime, especially with a hot guy.

Taesan’s eyebrows furrow, grabbing a pillow and tossing it at Jaehyun. “Then you guys can watch by your dorm.”

“Nuh, it wouldn’t feel the same,” Jaehyun says, tossing the pillow back onto the couch. “Plus you got the biggest TV, so you were asking for it.” Leehan smiles mischievously at the banter before locking eyes with Taesan.

Pushing himself up to his feet, he walks towards the door as Jaehyun and Leehan make their way to leave. Jaehyun greets first, walking out the door.

“I guess you can’t dodge hanging out with me now,” Leehan says slyly, winking as he walks out the door as well.

“I’m going to take my key back from you!” Taesan shouts down the hallway, words falling on deaf ears, as the two figures disappear around the corner.

Can he just get one day of peace and quiet?

No, he actually can’t.

Leehan starts becoming a constant in his life. Aside from his agreements in the mornings, he’s built a habit of waiting outside of Taesan’s classes just before lunch.

The first time he joined the group at their designated table in the cafeteria, the group being a bit awkward, Sungho stared holes into his head while he spoke to Jaehyun and Taesan.

Already having won over Jaehyun with anime and eventually having swayed Sungho slightly with the food he keeps buying for the group, his presence started to feel normal. More normal than Taesan expected.

Occasionally Leehan’s friends would even join them, Gunwook and Seunghan getting along with Jaehyun and Sungho really well.

It’s almost scary how well they all get along.

-°⛧

“What's up with you and Leehan? And don’t lie to me; I saw what he did to your neck.” Sungho asks Taesan as they walk home after campus.

“You don’t even know if that was him,” Taesan responds, trying to shift the conversation. Sungho only gives him the most deadpan, straight face look he can muster up, not entertained by Taesan’s attempts at all.

To be honest, he doesn’t know how to answer that question.

The obvious answer is no. Because they aren’t. However, he doesn’t miss the way Leehan’s eyes linger on him longer than they should or the way Leehan grazes his hand against his own when they walk next to each other. The way his face lights up when he greets him in the morning. It definitely feels like something more.

At least to him.

He also feels a bit weird that he went from Leehan being the one who almost killed him, the guy he hated for almost 2 months, to being the guy he started to look forward to seeing. The guy who's been making his dead heart beat faster.

It’s been a long time since he’s felt this way towards someone. It’s both scary and refreshing. More scary, but yes.

“I’m not sure. I mean, we’re not dating. That’s obvious.” Taesan furrows his eyebrows, and Sungho watches him think.

“He’s been hanging out with us a lot; I’m not convinced if he’s good for you.” Sungho admits, “given that he almost killed you”

“I know, I know.” Taesan bites on his bottom lip. “I mean he didn’t try to on purpose.”

“Taesan”, Sungho says in a stern voice, almost like his mother scolding him.

“I’m not sure what he’s thinking; we’ve never spoken about what all this is. He’s just been acting like this on his own.” Taesan stops in front of his dormitory entrance.

“You entertain it though,” Sungho snaps back. Taesan looks down, a bit of shame washing over him.

“I guess I do.” Humming in agreement, he tries not to think about it too much.

Sighing, Sungho flicks his forehead with his finger, and Taesan quickly death-stares him, holding his hand up to his forehead.

“Don’t overthink it; I just don’t want to see the ugly face you make when you cry,” Sungho says smugly, walking off in the direction of his dorm.

“Yah!” Taesan shouts, rubbing his hand against his forehead before heading inside.

-°⛧

Shifting through his closet as he changes out of his outdoor clothes, he notices how he’s running out of long-sleeved tops. The sun has been intense recently, so he’s needed to cover up his skin more so that he doesn’t burn up.

Pulling out his phone, he pops a message into his friends group chat.

Meong-go-yang-I’s

Taesan [15:03]
Anyone want to go to the mall with me? I need more clothes ;(

Jaehyun [15:07]
I just got into bed

Taesan [15:07]
Get up

Jaehyun [15:08]
Don’t wanna

Sungho [15:13]
I’ll have to pass too; I have to study for a test tomorrow

Taesan [15:15]
You guys suck ass.

Sighing, he clicks his phone closed. He guesses this is a solo trip.

Putting on his last long-sleeved top, pairing it with blue low-waisted baggy jeans and black chunky boots.

Walking out the door, he plugs his ears with his earphones blasting Oasis as he makes his way to his car.

“Boo!” Leehan jumps in front of him, scaring the shit out of him. Jumping a bit, his hands fly up in fists, almost hitting Leehan out of reflex.

“What’s your problem!” Taesan half shouts at him, taking his earphones out of his ears.

“I’m sorry! I tried calling your name, but you couldn’t hear me.”

“So you jump out at me?” Taesan raised his eyebrows at him, emphasising his words.

“Yeah,” Leehan responds, putting on his most charming smile. Leehan’s eyes travel down Taesan’s figure, looking at his outfit. ” Where are you going?”

Sighing, he answers, “I need to get new clothes, you know, since I burn in the sun now because of you.” Poking his finger at his chest, pushing past him towards his car, the other following after him like a lost puppy.

“Can I come with?” Leehan asks, turning to face Taesan as he opens his car door, standing half inside already.

“If I say no, are you going to listen?” Taesan sarcastically asks, already knowing what’s going to happen.

“Nope,” Leehan responds, smiling even brighter, going to the other side of the car and climbing in the passenger seat.

“Do you seriously have nothing better to do?” Taesan deadpans at him, turning the key in the ignition, the car roaring to life.

“Better than spending time with you? No ways”

-°⛧

“What do you think about these two?” Taesan asks, as he debates between two identical-looking long-sleeve tops.

“They look the same?” Leehan responds, sitting on one of the store's couches scattered around the room.

“You’re no help,” Taesan says, deciding to just get both and call it a day.

They’ve already gone through most of the stores Taesan wanted to visit. Leehan took the responsibility of carrying the majority of Taesan’s shopping bags.

Walking past Olive Young, he realises that he’s been meaning to get something to maybe cover up his bite marks a bit better.

And potentially future hickeys as-well…

“Oh, let’s just go in—“

Taesan’s heart drops, a burning sensation travelling through his body, stopping dead in his tracks. His eyes dart up; a taller guy with dark hair is walking with a girl hanging on his arm as they smile sweetly at each other.

The man’s face turning to look at him. Choi Jinyoung.

What the fuck is he doing here?

That sickening smile he knows too well. The one he used to fight so hard to be the reason for. To be enough for. Twitching, his eyes lift higher, locking eyes with Jinyoung. Taesan feels his heart ache, a needle-like pain spreading from his heavy chest to his legs.

“Go in where?” Leehan asks before looking up at Taesan’s face. Immediately stopping next to him, his expression drops as he notices Taesan’s face stiffen into something sorrowful.

Leehan’s eyes fix onto where Taesan’s looking, landing on the man who’s slowly moving towards them.

Shit, he needs to get out of here.

“Taesan? It’s been so long. Jinyoung stretches out a hand, his eyes looking down at him, weighing heavy. A glint of something darker behind them.

Taesan stands not immobile for a beat; his mouth opens, drying up before he can respond. Leehan grabs Jinyoung's hand, shaking it firmly, squeezing a bit too tight to be friendly. Grabbing Jinyoung's full attention, eyes landing on his face.

“I’m Leehan,” he responds, wrapping his other hand around Taesan’s waist, pulling him tightly into his side. “I’m his boyfriend.“

Boyfriend? What is Leehan doing?

Taesan glances up at Leehan, only getting a soft smile in response. Licking his lips, he swallows dryly and decides to let Leehan take the lead.

Jinyoung's face stiffens a bit, taken aback a bit by Leehan’s strength and sharp tone. “Ah, nice to meet you,” Jinyoung responds slowly, scoffing a bit as he examines Leehan’s figure and face. His eyes travel back to Taesan as Taesan avoids eye contact now. “I see; he still can’t talk for himself.”

Oh, fuck you.

Something twitches inside Taesan, anger boiling inside of his chest; looking up sharply, his eyes stare daggers back at Jinyoung. Opening his mouth to respond-

“It’s still sore from last night,” Leehan snaps back. Taesan’s face turns a soft pink, Leehan’s grip on his waist only tightening. Jinyoung's face distorting , the girl next to him’s eyes shooting wide open. The two were clearly taken aback by Leehan’s words.

Tilting his head at the man to smile intimidatingly at him. “Anyway, we have a date to continue.” He lets go of Taesan's waist to intertwine their fingers together. Taesan’s skin burns against Leehan’s. Leehan rubs his thumb soothingly in circles over Taesan’s skin, the touch oddly bringing some calm to Taesan’s anxiety.

“Have a good day,” Leehan says, pulling himself and Taesan to walk away from the two. Taesan rakes his brain on what just happened.

“God, why did you say that?” Taesan whispers at him as they walk closely next to each other, his face a bit red.

“I handled it, didn’t I?” Leehan smiles weakly at him, squeezing his hand tightly as they walk towards the exit of the mall.

Walking in silence, Taesan’s anxiety has taken over his nervous system.

Why did he have to be here?

Taesan thought after high school he wouldn’t have to see his face again. He wished that was the case. He can’t stop his mind from running back to memories he has of their relationship.

Jinyoung treated him like shit, to put it lightly. Taesan never really had a say in the relationship; whatever Jinyoung wanted, he got. Whatever he wanted to take from Taesan, he did. Taesan was so blinded by love – the love he thought they had for each other, the love he tried to convince himself existed for him. But it wasn’t love at all.

Jinyoung didn’t even want them to be known as a thing. The relationship was hidden away from everyone: the star soccer player and the loser of the school together? Even if Taesan told anybody, no one would believe him.

Especially when Jinyoung would flirt with every girl that made advances towards him.

Taesan had to just sit and watch. Whenever he wanted to talk to him about it or express his feelings, he’d be shut down.

‘What would the guys on the team think if they found out he was gay?’

He was constantly reminded of how ashamed Jinyoung was to call him his. He was only wanted when Jinyoung needed something to fuck. And even then he’d run to random girls at parties and use them instead.

It made him start to hate himself.

He doesn’t know how he convinced himself to stay for as long as he did. How he convinced himself that that was what love was.

But he’ll never let himself be used like that again.

Never again.

Getting into the car, Taesan feels tears building up in his eyes. A single tear slips down his cheek, the dam breaking. Tears spilling down his face faster than he can wipe them away.

“Hey, hey, it’s okay, it’s okay.” Leehan moves quickly, pulling Taesan into his chest. Taesan’s body shakes as he cries into Leehan’s chest. The wet tears soaking into the material on his shirt. Leehan’s arms wrap around Taesan’s body, resting his chin onto Taesan’s head, his hand slowly running through his hair on the back of his head.

Fuck, why can’t he pull himself together?

Taesan grips onto Leehan’s sides as he sobs. He lets himself fall apart. He can’t stop the tears from falling, his body struggling in between sobs.

This is so embarrassing.

After a few minutes of crying his heart out. He pulls back, eyes swollen and exhausted. Leehan loosens his arms to allow Taesan to push himself up right. Leehan looks at him, examining every inch of his face. He takes his thumbs and wipes at the remaining tears that stained his cheeks. The gentle touch helped ground him back to reality.

He must look ridiculous right now, breaking down after seeing his ex. How pathetic can he be?

Leehan turns his body to pull his crossbody backpack off, placing it on his lap as he rummages through its contents. Pulling out a small metal tumbler, he unscrews the lid and pushes it towards Taesan.

The smell instantly hits Taesan’s stomach. Taking it from his hands, he chugs the blood, his body instantly feeling a bit better.

Taking in a deep breath, he licks his lips. “Thank you”, Taesan responds, throat less dry than before.

Leehan hums; his hand reaches to take the empty tin from Taesan, screwing it closed and tossing it back into his bag.

“I would’ve probably cried in front of him if I were alone.” Taesan laughs, drying, disguising his pain with humour.

“And you didn’t want me to come with,” Leehan teases, earning himself a soft smile. A beat of silence falls over them before Leehan opens his mouth again. “I’m guessing that’s one of your exes?”

“The one and only,” Taesan responds, voice a bit strained.

“You’ve only ever dated him?” Leehan asks, confirming what he heard is correct.

“Mhm” Taesan tightens his lips into a straight line, slightly chewing on his bottom lip.

“Damn, I volunteer to be next; second time's a charm, right?” Leehan winks at him.

“That’s not how the saying goes,” Taesan laughs softly, shaking his head at Leehan’s comment. Leehan smiles softly back at him.

“Come give me the keys; I’ll drive you home,” Leehan responds, hand stretched out, waiting.

“Trust you with my car?” Taesan half-jokes.

“I just saved your butt back there,” Leehan says, motioning his head. “Plus, you can sit back and relax.”

Taesan takes the keys out of his pocket, handing them to Leehan, unsure if it’s a good idea, but he can’t think clearly right now.

“I think the last thing I’ll be is relaxed.” Taesan throws at him, Leehan rolling his eyes jokingly.

“Oh, just shut up and let me do something nice for you.” Taesan smiles, switching seats with Leehan, staring out the window for most of the car ride after Leehan proves he’s roadworthy.

-°⛧

Sitting in his lounge, he works on an essay he has due next week. He mindlessly plays some nature channel that he accidentally pressed on one day and was too lazy to find something else to watch to change. The background noise is doing its job to fill the apartment with something other than his thoughts.

A ding from his phone on the coffee table catches his attention.

Leehan [22:34]
I hope you’re feeling a bit better <3

Leehan [22:35]
Don’t stay up too late tonight!

Taesan’s heart warms up. A smile spreads to his face as he reads the messages.

Taesan [22:37]
You too

His finger hovering over the send button after he types his last message.

Taesan [22:38]
<3

Placing his phone face down, he tries to bring his attention back to his essay, but that’s a lost cause at that point.

His mind wanders back to earlier that day. Leehan stood up for him; even though what he said was a bit embarrassing, he still stood up for him. He’s grateful for that. Especially since he couldn’t stand up for himself.

Though.

The fact that Leehan called himself his boyfriend so proudly did something to his brain. Even if it wasn’t the truth, hearing those words uttered out loud so sweetly pierced something deep within him that needed healing.

How could he say that so proudly? He held him so tightly, like he wanted nothing but to keep him safe and protected.

Thinking back to how quickly Leehan reacted when he started crying, holding him tight, rubbing and touching him so gently. It was almost sickening how easily it calmed his nerves and made him feel so safe.

Why would he do all that for him.

Maybe he still just feels bad for what he did to him at the club.

Yeah, that has to be it. He just feels bad for him.

That’s all it is.

Still, that doesn’t explain why his dead heart starts beating so fast for Leehan.

Another ding comes from his phone, lifting it up to reveal another message from Leehan.

Leehan [22:52]
Goodnight, my crybaby

My.

He has to take a second to take in the message. My?

Taesan [22:53]
I’ll delete my heart message.

Leehan [22:53]
I’ll just steal your real heart

Taesan [22:54]
You can try.

Leehan [22:55]
Already on it ;)

If only he knew how close he actually is to achieving that goal.

God, he’s going to be the death of him.

Chapter Text

“Have you not slept?” Leehan asks, staring concerningly at Taesan.

Taesan’s sitting cross-legged, cuddled up with blankets and pillows lying around him. Eyes glued to the screen in front of him.

“Are you seriously watching Twilight right now?” Leehan asks in disbelief.

“Shhhh,” Taesan slips out, continuing to watch his show.

After disappearing into the kitchen, Leehan slips next to him, handing a glass his way, the red liquid swirling inside.

“You know we don’t have powers and stuff like them, right?” Taesan takes the cup from his hands, eyes not moving. He tilts the glass up, taking swift gulps at a time. Leehan’s eyes darting from his face to his neck, tracking his Adam's apple as it bobs up and down. Leehan swallows dryly, dragging his eyes to the two puncture marks.

“Yeah, Ricky already told me how much of a weak vampire you are.”

A stretch of silence falls between them.

Leehan’s fast heartbeat is all Taesan can hear from him. Taesan can hear its rhythm beating loudly, the smell of his blood becoming more intense as it flows faster through his body. Lowering the cup from his mouth, he pulls his gaze from the TV, locking onto Leehan’s face.

“What’s wrong?” Taesan asks, eyes searching his face.

Leehan clears his throat, snapping out of his trance. Turning his head back to face the screen, he takes a swing from his cup, “Nothing.”

Taesan hums in response, seeing through Leehan’s facade. The pink blush creeping up Leehan’s neck blowing his cover. Smirking, Taesan lets out a breathy scoff. Turning his face back towards the screen, it’s now his turn to start blushing.

The two main characters are in bed together. The creaking from the bed echoing through his apartment, the male character's back hovering over the woman’s, pulling at the bed sheets, kissing and biting at each other as they go at it.

Taesan’s face grows bright red, embarrassment running through his veins.

Why now?

Why when Leehan is next to him?

“You know,“ Leehan starts cutting sharply through the noise from the TV. Taesan can hear the gears turning in Leehan’s brain. “If you wanted to see vampires fuck, you could have just called me,” Leehan says, turning his head to look at Taesan’s side profile, his famous smile flashing Taesan’s way.

Catching Leehan’s demeanour change in his peripherals, the devilish smile challenging him. He decides he will play Leehan’s game, more determined not to give in like last time.

“Says the one who got nervous just now.” Taesan bites back, turning his head to look Leehan in the eyes. Heart catching in his throat, Leehan’s face inches apart from his. His heart beat starts catching up with Leehan’s, the pace creeping up faster than he’d ever admit. He can feel the hairs on his skin move as Leehan breathes, the action sending chills down his spine.

“You have no proof.” The sound of Leehan’s heart beating fast mixed with how strong Leehan’s scent is consumes his brain. He needs to do something to gain some control.

The blood in the cup smelling too bland to satisfy his needs now. Placing his glass on the coffee table, he stands up. Turning to face Leehan, he stares down at him, a darkness wiping over his face. Leehan’s charming smirk still standing strong as he stares up at him.

Moving to stand in front of him, he slots a knee in between Leehan’s thighs, pinning him to the couch. Taesan puts one hand onto Leehan’s shoulder, pushing him back, as his other hand reaches for the necklace shining against Leehan’s collarbones.

Leehan’s heart’s throbbing in his chest, hard and fast, breath catching at the suddenness of Taesan’s actions. “What are you doing?” Leehan’s bearings shaken.

Taesan lowers his face and pulls Leehan’s closer to his with the necklace tangled in his fingers, eyes looking hazily into Leehan’s. Smirking as he lowers his gaze to his lips, Taesan whispers, “Making you admit it”

Looking back into Leehan’s eyes, his eyes softly dilate. Scanning his face, the pink blush from Leehan’s neck has crept its way up. Leehan’s eyes flicker to his neck, swallowing as his smirk turns to something more serious. Lingering on Taesan’s lips, his eyes travel up his face before landing back onto his eyes.

“Admit what?” Leehan asks, voice drier and softer than before.

Pleased, Taesan sends a devilish smile Leehan’s way before lowering his head into Leehan’s nape. Opening his mouth, he drags his tongue up the sensitive vein, stopping just below his ear. Leehan’s body shudders, stiffening at the feeling.

“That I make you nervous”

Leehan's heart still beating fast, the sound almost deafening. Leehan’s hands come up to hold onto Taesan’s waist, almost completely wrapping around. Leehan lightly rubs his thumbs under the fabric of Taesan’s shirt, brushing over the soft skin.

“I’d like to see you try.” Leehan drops his head into the nape of Taesan’s neck, placing a tiny kiss onto his shoulder.

Taesan only smiles at the response, taking it a step further. Pressing his knee deeper, he pushes into the place where Leehan’s legs meet. Leehan’s breathing is disrupted, a soft groan escaping his mouth instinctively, his hands tightening against Taesan’s skin.

Pulling his head away, Taesan brings his other leg onto the couch, straddling Leehan’s leg. Hands wrap around the back of Leehan’s neck, the smirk stretching on Taesan's lips only getting crueler as he flashes a smile. Leehan’s chest is rising and falling as he stares with a pained look on his face, Taesan’s knee still pressed too tightly against him for him to ignore.

Taesan extends his fangs, Leehan watching as Taesan drags his bottom lip sharp and hard under his fang. A bead of blood grows on Taesan’s lip, his sharp fang cutting clean through his skin. The sight digging into Leehan’s soul, his gaze full of want.

Taesan dives down, crashing his lips into Leehan’s. One hand pulls Leehan’s head back further, Taesan towering over Leehan as he moves his lips against Leehan’s. Leehan inhales through his nose, kissing him back. Taesan’s other hand moving to add pressure to Leehan’s throat. Leehan moans into the kiss, his tongue darting out, lapping up the droplets. A deep, growl-like groan comes from the back of Leehan’s throat, rooting from somewhere hidden inside Leehan.

The taste of Taesan’s blood driving him insane, the metallic flavour mixing with something akin to honey. Sucking and pulling on his lip like he’s begging for more, like he’s been starving, like he can’t get enough of the man on top of him.

Smiling against Leehan’s lips, he pulls away, not missing the flash of red that passes in Leehan’s eyes. Leehan’s lips shine, wet from their kiss. His mouth falls open, his fangs peeking out slightly. Leehan’s appearance is darker, looking more desperate and dangerous. Leehan’s staring at him with heavy lids; the blush dusting over his cheeks sends a warmth that starts at his chest and spreads downward.

“Still Hungry?” Taesan asks, the heat inside of Taesan getting hotter. Leehan looks like he wants to eat him.

“Aren’t you?” Leehan asks, his voice coming out deep, nails digging slightly into Taesan’s hips.

He can’t lie. Leehan smells extra sweet right now. He would put his pride aside to get a taste but he still has a game to win.

“Too bad you don’t want to tell me what I want to hear." Taesan plays with the hair at the back of Leehan’s head, smiling sickeningly sweetly, tilting his head to the side. “Maybe then I’d give you what you want,” his voice laced with something bitter yet tempting.

Leehan looks like he’s about to snap. His focus was on Taesan and Taesan alone. The dangerous look in his eyes remains unchanged, anticipation thick in the air between them. Leehan’s hands still sit firmly on his waist, fingers pressing into the plush skin. His eyes travel down Taesan’s body, running, fingers lifting the shirt a little for his eyes to eat at the exposed skin. Biting his lip, his eyes snap back to meet Taesan’s.

“Fine”

“Good boy,” Taesan says seductively.

Leehan’s snaps, the praise going straight to his dick. His hand grabs the back of Taesan’s neck, pulling him down into a heavy kiss, a sense of relief leaving Leehan’s body as Taesan's lips touch his again. The kiss feels electric, somehow more desperate. Sucking at his bottom lip, he releases it with a pop, lips kissing their way down Taesan’s throat eagerly. Teeth pulling at his collarbone, Taesan lets out a breathy sigh at the tingling sensation, eyes fluttering closed.

“You’re insane,” Leehan says in between kisses. Sucking hard at the skin, swallowing all the noises that vibrate from Taesan’s throat. “You drive me insane,” Leehan says, his hand travelling up Taesan’s shirt, nails dragging against the muscles. He moves to lick at Taesan’s nape, tongue moving over the two punctures. Heat pools at the bottom of Taesan’s stomach, his body reacting instantly. His hips jolt forward on Leehan’s thigh, a moan blessing Leehan’s ears. “I want more,” Leehan whispers, hot air fanning on his skin. Fuck, okay.

Taesan’s body feels like it’s on fire, burning with desire. Leehan’s hands burning as they touch him, the traces etching in his skin. His body begs for contact, senses heightening. The thin material of his pyjama pants doing little to prevent him from hiding Leehan’s effects on him.

“Then take it,” Taesan moans out, tugging at his hair.

Leehan pulls back, lips wet and swollen. His eyes search between Taesan’s, the smug look returning to his face. Holding eye contact, he brings his wrist to his lips, biting deep into the skin. Twin beads of blood slowly spill out as he rotates his wrist towards Taesan’s lips. The smell hits him first, the aromatic scent flooding the air, pulling him in. His deepest craving surfacing, mouth watering in desire and want.

Does he want me to drink from him?

The suddenness of the act has Taesan’s head spinning. He can barely think before a matching flash runs across his eyes.

“What? Don’t want a taste?” Leehan teases.

“I said take, not give,“ Taesan responds, hands wrapping timidly around Leehan’s forearm.

“You think I don’t get off on just how good you look like this?” Leehan's eyes scanning over Taesan’s face.

The comment goes straight to the bottom of his stomach, a punch-like feeling pulling him in closer. He can’t help his mouth from falling open, his fangs extending, his hunger making itself apparent.

Bringing Leehan’s wrist to his lips, he places his fangs on the spot Leehan had opened for him. Shyly he pushes into the skin, breaking it open. Blood floods into his mouth, the warm and honey-like taste coating his tongue from the inside as it travels down to his stomach. He feels like an addict who just got their fix, his intensive want finally being satisfied. The blood seeps into his system, its potent and sweet taste nourishing his body back to life. The feeling being his warmth and comfort as he sucks more and more from Leehan’s wrist. He’s never felt so satisfied yet thirsty before.

Moaning, Taesan closes his eyes, grinding against hips in a painfully slow rhythm.

He tastes so fucking good.

Stopping, he pulls his mouth away from Leehan’s wrist, panting heavily. He licks over the wound and cleans up any mess with his tongue. Leehan’s wrist drops as Taesan finishes, both of their chests rising and falling together.

Leehan’s eyes travelling down again, taking in the man sitting in his lap. “Always so pretty for me, hm?” Leehan comments, hand running lower to squeeze at Taesan’s ass.

“Hey!” Taesan shrieks, warning Leehan. The burning feeling of Leehan’s hands exploring more of him is both exciting and frightening.

Although they aren’t new to each other’s bodies, the feeling is still unfamiliar, sending shockwaves to his nervous system.

“Sorry,” Leehan says, hand falling back to his hips, head dipping down a bit to let out a breathy laugh. His head lifts, and his eyes are blown out at the sight in front of him.

Taesan’s wrist is bitten open, twisted to face him, in an identical manner to his actions minutes ago. Leehan swallows dryly as he looks at his wrist concerningly, unsure if this is allowed. Leehan’s eyes flicker up, an unsaid question presenting itself. Taesan catches the mental war zone happening in Leehan’s brain, “It’s okay, Leehan.”

Leehan’s puppy eyes search his face for any sign of discomfort. Slowly wrapping his fingers around his wrist, his eyes watch as the blood trickles out. Bring it closer to his lips; his mouth waters, the smell of Taesan’s blood intoxicating. Licking his lips, he presses his mouth against the skin, a drop of Taesan’s blood spilling into his mouth. Leehan licks, releasing a pleased noise at the taste; resting his teeth in the skin decisively, he applies just enough pressure to tear the skin apart. A strong sting breaches, the twin fangs piercing, breaking open the food gates. Sending static shocks through his veins, Taesan’s body tenses up as Leehan holds him still. The pain is sudden and brief, dissipating quickly as a warmth that blooms through nerves, replacing it.

A buzz fills his mind, clearing his thoughts, narrowing his focus on the feeling. He feels good. Too good. His breath is shaky and unstable, hitching at every desperate movement and sound from Leehan’s mouth.

Leehan starts sucking harder, his body pressing closer up against Taesan. He feels a hard pressure, barely noticeable before, has now made itself known, rubbing against his knee.

Leehan’s getting off on how he tastes. He continues to gnaw on his wrist in desperation, moaning and groaning as if Taesan were the best thing he’s ever had.

He lets out a whimper; the thought alone drives Taesan’s mind deeper into despair.

Leehan’s body tenses and stiffens, pulling himself away from Taesan’s wrist, pushing his back into the couch. His breathing is heavy and low, yet his stare is filled with worry and panic.

“Sorry I got carried away; I –“ Taesan grabs a fistful of his shirt, crashing their lips together.

“Shut up,” Taesan growls out, climbing further up Leehan’s lap. Taesan grabs the sides of his neck as he pushes in again, desperately into the kiss. Leehan’s hands hold onto Taesan’s back, holding on steadily. The fire between them reignites, with no more uncertainty hanging between them.

Leehan’s tongue licks the inside of Taesan’s lips, Taesan’s jaw instantly falling open. Leehan’s tongue dives in, licking and sucking at Taesan’s tongue, desperate to taste each other. Grinding down onto Leehan’s leg, Taesan’s achingly hard. Leehan isn’t doing any better, his dick pressing hard against Taesan's leg. Taesan grinds down, moving on Leehan’s lap, a shaky moan leaving both of them.

Leehan’s hand sneaks up, pulling Taesan’s shirt clean over his head, discarding it somewhere on the floor. Taesan's exposed skin reflects the soft lighting from the TV that has long been forgotten. Leehan’s eyes eat him up, fingers running down his chest before resting on the waistband of his pants. Taesan’s fingers tentatively grab at the bottom of Leehan’s shirt, Leehan swiftly pulling the fabric over his head. Taesan bites down on his lip, fingers running down Leehan’s abs.

Fuck, he looks so good.

The things he wants to do to Leehan. The things he wants Leehan to do to him. The thought gets snatched away from him as he feels a hand pressing against his groin; a gasp leaves his mouth. Leehan’s touch sending a rush of adrenaline through his body, Taesan’s breath catching in his throat and his heart beating violently in his chest. Leehan rubs him through the thin fabric, feeling him getting slowly harder, the veins becoming more pronounced. Taesan’s hand goes to cover his mouth as moans escape, the touch so sudden yet so welcomed. Leehan pulls his hand away, sliding two fingers past his lips. Taesan happily accepts, sucking the digits like he has something to prove.

God, he must look ridiculous right now. Begging to be touched with two fingers down his throat. He can’t care right now. He wants Leehan so badly; it’s concerning.

Tracing the outline, he pulls at the front of the waistband. Taesan pulls down Leehan’s pants slightly, Leehan’s dick springing out, heavy and leaking. Taesan’s heart stops for a second; seeing Leehan’s dick again feels like a blessing, the lewd shine on precum sending a pulse to his own dick. He wraps his fingers around the length, using the precum to slick over Leehan’s dick, and he starts to move his hand.

Leehan growls lowly, his hands going to pull Taesan’s dick out without warning. Taesan’s head falls forward into Leehan’s shoulder, eyes practically rolling back into his head at the feeling of finally being touched. Taking his wet fingers from Taesan’s mouth, he used the spit to jerk him off, the warm and wet sensation sending a shock of arousal through Taesan.

Leehan whimpers praises into Taesan’s ear as their hands pump each other faster. Wet noises bounce through the apartment. Taesan was a moaning mess in Leehan’s lap, his movements becoming sloppier. Leehan jerks into his hand, Taesan’s hand slipping off.

“Relax, baby, let me take care of this.” Leehan pushes Taesan’s hand off, spitting on his hand before wrapping it around both of them, pulling the dicks flush against each other. The wonderful, suffocating bliss he feels from just their dicks touching has him damn near crying. What the fuck is this?

Leehan’s hand moves, the heat from their dicks being shared, the overwhelming pleasure coursing through his body. He must be dreaming. Or he just died. He feels unreal; it’s almost too much.

“-ah”, Taesan grabs onto Leehan’s shoulders for support, eyes watering. Taesan can’t stop himself from rocking his hips in Leehan’s hands. Taesan feels so close. and so, so good. He can hardly hold back, tears springing to his eyes at the stimulation.

“Feels good, hm?” Leehan whispers, that smug look returning to his face, and Leehan’s hand jerks abusively fast.

“Mhm”, Taesan answers,l eyes squeezing shut as his body twitches and pulses. He feels his climax approaching. “Leehan—“ Taesan breathes. Leehan’s movements become sloppier and more desperate, chasing after a high. “Close?” Leehan rasps, Taesan nodding frantically. Leehan tightens his hand around their cocks like his life depended on it. Taesan huffs into Leehan’s chest, his body rocking forward into Leehan’s hand, mouth moving to bite on his shoulder.

“Cum for me, baby,” Leehan breathes into his ear. A high-pitched moan spills from his mouth, all thoughts leaving his mind as his vision is dotted with stars, his body shuddering and twitching as he comes, spilling over him and Leehan’s cocks.

The body under him tenses up, the hand on his hip tightening. Leehan lets out a pained moan as he comes undone, spilling against the Taesan’s hips.

Taesan collapses against Leehan’s shoulder, feeling boneless and spent. He feels like he can sleep for hours and still wake up tired.

Pulling himself back up, he tries to catch his breath. Both he and Leehan look between, seeing the mixture of their cum together is enough to get Taesan worked up again. But maybe another time; his body can’t handle more. Leehan’s thumb swipes some of their cum up, moving to rest on Taesan's bottom lip.

“Open for me?” Leehan asks, Taesan instinctively obliging.

“Good boy” Leehan smirks at him.

A salty, slightly bitter and sweet taste spreads on his tongue as he swallows down, Taesan sucks onto the finger without a complaint, staring at Leehan as he pulls his finger out, dragging his bottom lip down longingly.

“You’re so fucking hot,” Leehan whispers into his ear, panting, running his hand on the back of Taesan’s hair. As if that’s going to help him look any less fucked up.

“you’re not too bad yourself”

Huffing a laugh, they rest their heads on each other's shoulders, basking in post-orgasm bliss. Leehan’s arm wrapped around Taesan’s waist, and he pulled him in tighter.

“Twilight always gets you this riled up?” Leehan teases.

“Shut up,” he whines, hiding his face deeper into Leehan’s shoulder.

-°⛧

The ping from his phone makes him jump. Every time he gets a message, his heart takes the opportunity to skip at the chance that it could be Leehan – he’ll never admit it though – but when he sees Jaehyun's name instead, he can’t deny his disappointment.

Leehan’s been acting stranger lately. This morning, Leehan did something he’s never done before. Leehan baked for him. He made him blood muffins. Blood muffins. Specially for him. With a note attached even.

It’s the gayest, most sweet thing he’s ever experienced – that’s a lie, but still.

The sweetness of it all shot him directly in the chest. Taesan can’t tell if it’s just all in his head or if Leehan genuinely is putting more thought and time into him.

With how sweet he is being, the morning messages, the night messages, and the random selfies he’ll take to update Taesan on his day – it’s feeling very romantic. Waiting every day for him after campus and outside of class, getting along with his friends – well, most of them. He can’t help but smile at the thought of all Leehan’s efforts.

His heart feels so warm. It’s odd.

“Someone looks happy,” Gyuvin comments from the opposite end of the coffee table.

“Just let me be,” Taesan shoots back.

They’re sitting on the floor of his apartment. Jaehyun is sitting next to Sungho on the couch, whilst Gyuvin and he take over their living room floor. Books and pages scattered around the floor and stacked on the coffee table as the group attempts to have a study session.

After a good 3 hours of half-focusing, the group decides to get food, Taesan, of course, not getting anything, opting for one of his muffins instead.

The food eventually arrives, Gyuvin lazily moving the books and papers to the side, unpacking the food for them, and Sungho making work to pick a show to watch other than the nature channel.

“They forgot the forks again,” Jaehyun says, standing up and heading to the kitchen. Gyuvin and Taesan pack out the food, Taesan placing two muffins on the table for himself.

“You looked so cute yesterday,” Jaehyun reads out loud; Taesan’s face drops. Snapping his head, he sees Jaehyun standing in the kitchen holding a stack of yellow post-it notes, one held up as he reads. No, no, no. “I made these muffins just for you,” everyone’s eyes locking onto the muffin resting in Taesan’s hands.

This can’t be happening. I’m actually going to kill him.

He rushes to his feet. “I left my hoodie here, but it’ll look better on you anyway???” Jaehyun says. Taesan rushes him. Grabbing the notes and stuffing them back into the drawer.

“What’s wrong with you?” Taesan says, annoyed, “Can’t even trust you to get forks.” Taesan slides open the utensil drawer, taking 3 forks out, huffing like he just ran a marathon.

“Yeah, they’re definitely fucking.” Gyuvin says, turning towards Sungho, “You owe me 50.”

“We didn’t!” Taesan looks at all of them in disbelief, “Are you guys seriously betting on me???”

“Since you’ve been not telling us stuff, yes,” Sungho states, still flipping through channels. “Hey!” Taesan feels a bit bad keeping his friends out of the loop. He didn’t mean to; it’s not like he fully understands what’s going on. But still, he used to share everything with them, so he understands where they’re coming from.

Sitting back down on the ground, he sighs. “Fine, what do you want to know?” looking between them, “-and no, we didn’t fuck.” a beat of silence falling onto them, the three exchanging glances.

“Not yet” Jaehyun states, holding a mischievous smile on his face.

“No.” Taesan says immediately, shoot Jaehyun a sharp look, Jaehyun’s body deflating at the response.

“Like, actually?” Gyuvin asks

“Yes, like, actually. Okay, next question.“

“So then, what are you guys?” Taesan pauses to think. If he’s being honest - he still doesn't know. It feels like they’re exclusive. But how does he know that? It feels like Leehan’s been doing all these cute things because he likes him, but he’s been down this road before. The nostalgic feeling causing his heart to ache.

“ I don’t know…”

“It feels like we’re together. But we aren’t.”

“I don’t know, it just feels messy but stable at the same time, like we have a routine, and I see him every morning, and he walks me home - But like, what does that even mean?”

Sungho offers a worrying gaze at Taesan; he doesn’t seem to be fond of Leehan.

“Maybe you just need to talk to him,” Gyuvin says.

“Maybe”

“That normally does the trick with these cocky shy guys,” Gyuvin says, nudging into Taesan’s side with his elbow, offering a little smile.

“Ricky giving you a hard time?” Sungho asks, more of a tease than a question.

“Not at all.” Gyuvin says, “Well, not in the way.”

“Ewwww” Taesan scrunches his face in disgust, not having any of it. Ricky feels like an older brother to him, so to hear about what he and his boyfriend do feels foul.

“Oh, to have Shen Ricky as your boyfriend.” Jaehyun ponders, turning to glare at Gyuvin, “You stole that from me.”

“Why are you looking at me? You had your chance!” Gyuvin asserts, raising his hands in the air.

“You stole my man!” Jaehyun's eyes squint closer, finger going to point as he speaks.

“Your man?? What—“ Gyuvin says, baffled by Jaehyun's nonsense. The two continue to debate back and forth.

At least the topic is off him and Leehan now.

-°⛧

Walking out of class, Sungho catches Leehan leaning against the door frame of Taesan’s class, on his phone.

Walking up to him, “You do know he’s not on campus today, right?” Sungho asks, Leehan being caught off guard. Leehan unplugs his earphones to awkwardly greet Sungho.

“What? Is he sick?” Leehan frantically asks, worry covering his face.

“No, it’s his mom’s birthday this weekend, so he drives down.” Sungho and Leehan are outside where Jaehyun sits waiting on a bench.

“But he didn’t even say anything.” Leehan pulls out his phone, scrolling his thumb up to reveal 3 messages from Taesan.

Taesannie <3

[ 06:45 ]
I’m driving home for my mom today.

[ 06:45 ]
So don’t worry about blood today.

[ 06:46 ]
I’ll be back Sunday; don’t miss me too much. ;p

No wonder he didn’t see him sleeping in his usual spot on the couch this morning.

“Oh, I guess he did,” Leehan says, staring at the messages on his phone.

“I think he’s home sick,” Sungho comments.

“Really, I didn’t think anything was off,” Leehan thinks to himself, trying to recall if he heard him talk about home recently.

“Never know with our Taesan,” Jaehyun says. Tossing a grape into his mouth.

Maybe something happened, Leehan thinks. The only thing he knows about is the man at the mall.

“We did bump into this arsehole at the mall the other day.” Leehan deliberates, “Jong or Jin-something,” Leehan says, fumbling his name as he racks his head for the name.

“Jinyoung”, both Jaehyun and Sungho say.

“Yeah”, Leehan says timidly, “that one”. Looking between the two, Leehan stands, waiting for them to respond with more information.

“No fucking wonder,” Sungho curses.

“What the fuck is he even doing here? Doesn’t he have someone else’s life to ruin?” Jaehyun lets slip out of his mouth before turning to face Leehan.

“What happened?”

“He kind of just walked up to us and was saying something about how Taesan still can’t stand up for himself,” Leehan recalls, watching as their faces contort more with each word.

“Yup, sounds like him.” Sungho stands, poking his tongue on the inside of his cheek, obviously pissed off.

“He was the fucking worst, fucking used Taesan for whatever he wanted.” Sungho continues.

“Ugh, I fucking hate that bitch,” Jaehyun writhes. “Always had the most to say, fucking loser.” Jaehyun crosses his arms, eyebrows furrowed harshly. Deep in thought, Jaehyun looks off at the campus grounds, watching how the trees have changed colours since they first arrived.

“I just hope Taesan’s not taking it too badly.” Jaehyun breaks the tense silence.

“I’ll call him later,” Sungho finalises, suppressing his emotions for later.

As the group splits up again, Leehan can’t help himself from overthinking. He knew Taesan was hurt that day; it was obvious.

Someone who treated you badly in the past, showing their face all smug-like, could do a number on anyone.

But this sounds deeper than that. The way Jaehyun and Sungho reacted to just hearing his name said enough.

He probably should’ve punched the guy when he saw him.

Popping his bag down in the locker room, his mind floods with concern and uncertainty.

He should check up on Taesan.

Pulling out his phone, he clicks on the last chat on top, fingers moving swiftly over the keyboard.

Taeannie <3

[11:27]
Did you get there safely?

[11:28]
No, I'm texting you from the grave.

[11:28]
Don’t joke like that!
Your friends were worried about you.

[11:29]
They always are.

[11:30]
Well, I was too. 
Are you feeling okay?

[11:32]
Yesss I’m fine; don’t worry so much. 
Now take care of those two for me.

[11:33]
Aye, aye, captain.

Leehan smiles softly at his phone, feeling a bit better now.

“No texting boyfriends in the locker room.” Seunghan appears from behind him, tossing his bag next to Leehan.

“What happened to privacy?” Leehan protests, stuffing his phone into his bag as he pulls his shirt off to change.

“If I have to see all your and his matching hickeys, I can see your texts,” Seunghan teases, winking at Leehan before turning around to walk out.

“Wha- hey!” Leehan shouts after him, a blush rushing up his face.

-°⛧

Unlocking the house door, Taesan swings it open, taking in the familiar decorations.

Stepping in, he immediately gets attacked by his mom, her wide smile so warm and inviting.

It’s only been 3 months since he’s been away, but he can’t lie; his heart missed his family. His dad joined in, giving them both a huge hug, wrapping his arms around the two.

“It’s so nice to see you again,” his mom says pulling away, “we missed you so much.”

“I missed you guys too,” Taesan says sweetly; he feels like his heart is about to explode from the wholesomeness of it all.

A beeping from the kitchen has both she and his dad quickly rushing inside. “Call your brother for lunch; he’s upstairs.”

Taesan jogs up the stairs, hearing his brother's muffled cursing from inside his room. Swinging the door open without knocking, his brother is sitting at his desk, with a counter held tightly in his hands.

“Woonhak!” Taesan shouts loud enough to pierce through his headphones.

Pausing to look at the door, his expression changing. His eyes grow twice in size at the sight of Taesan standing in the doorway.

“Taesan? I didn’t know you were coming home.” Woonhak says, surprised and confused at the same time. Standing up from the chair, he goes to hug Taesan.

“How can I miss Mom’s birthday?” Taesan says, hugging Woonhak back.

“Come, they want us to eat now.”

Sitting at the dinner table, Taesan smells all the lovely home-cooked food set on the table. The smell is so nostalgic. It makes him think back to when Jaehyun, Sungho and he would run inside after playing all day in the sun to his mom’s cooking. When he could still go out in the sun, that is. When he could still fully enjoy the food in front of him.

Still, this is really nice.

“How’s college so far?” His dad asks him as everyone’s finished taking their first bites.

“It’s… interesting. I’m just glad I have Jaehyun and Sungho with me. I don’t know how else I’d survive.”

Technically he wouldn’t be half dead without them, but anyway.

“That’s so nice; I’m glad they’re there to look after you too,” his mom chimes in, a warm smile on her face.

Taesan just smiles at the thought, continuing supper and talking a bit here and there about life, catching up on what he’s missing in the neighbourhood as well.

After finishing up lunch and helping his mom clean the kitchen, Taesan drags Woonhak with him to the mall to get his mom a gift.

Contrasting earlier, driving through his neighbourhood, down all the familiar streets, and passing all the buildings he’s memorised by now, he feels relaxed and at ease. Finding comfort in the familiarity and predictability of his environment.

All his worries washing away.

Stopping by a jewellery store, he scans over the jewellery before deciding to get his mom a cute bracelet with her birthstone on it. Walking up to the counter to pay, a piece stops him in his tracks. A silver keychain with a pretty seashell design and the letter L emblazoned on a smaller flat piece of metal, his mind instantly thinks of Leehan.

“What? You want to get that for your boyfriend?” Woonhak asks, sipping on his iced coffee they got on the way.

“What, no?” Taesan lies straight through his teeth. “It’s for me.”

“You’re such a good liar,” Woonhak comments.

“Whatever,” Taesan says, walking up to the jeweller, paying for the bracelet and keychain. Stuffing the small box with the keychain in it in his pocket, leaving his mom’s gift in the bag the jeweller gave him.

After gifting him mom the bracelet, which she loved, of course, he went up to his old bedroom. The dust settling on most of his remaining belongings there flies into the air as he swiftly opens the door. Crashing onto his bed, his body instantly relaxes, the curved-out and worn mattress perfectly moulding around his body.

Lying in the bed felt so odd. Like he’s living in a past life, even though it was only 3 months ago.

It’s only been 3 months, and so much has happened. Staring at the ceiling, he contemplates.

Thinking about how things are so different now. Even though his best friends are with him in Seoul, it’s just not what he expected when he thought about their university life.m together.

Mainly the fact that he’s a whole ass vampire now and his entire lifestyle has flipped over on itself.

If only he didn’t go to that party that day. He wouldn’t be a vampire. He’d still be a normal human being. He’d be able to enjoy the things he used to love.

Even Japanese pudding doesn’t taste the same, and it used to be his favourite.

Drinking blood every day to survive, avoiding the sun on a nice day, and covering up his bite marks every day have become his new normal. His daily routine.

His mind drifts to Leehan.

Because, of course, it does.

Maybe he’d have even met Leehan under normal conditions. Would they have been friends? Without strings attached, without obligations. Would Leehan spend as much time with him now if he wasn’t tied to him? Would he even want him as a friend?

He hates to admit it, but he thinks about this a lot. Back in high school he only had one relationship, and that was pure shit. Even just comparing it to how Leehan treats him, it’s night and day.

The notes alone do a number on his heart. He’s so gentle and kind when Taesan needs it most. Always entertained by his jokes, taking all his jabs without complaints. Rushing to his side when he was hurt in the hospital and standing up for him in the mall.

He even called himself Taesan’s boyfriend. Of course it was an act. But it was a really good one. He’s never had a good relationship with that word; it always came with pain, confusion and disappointment. The memories of the past taint the word and everything it represented.

Yet – hearing those words spill out of Leehan's mouth about him. So proudly calling him. That was insane. His brain can’t handle that. The idea of someone actually being proud to be with him, publicly claiming him and theirs. With a smile even. The prettiest smile.

Fuck, why’s he even thinking of Leehan like this? Why did he buy him a gift out of the blue?

Pulling the box out of his pocket, he takes the keychain out, letting the light catch onto it, the metal shining pretty as they hang from his finger.

Does Leehan think about him like this too? Does she even feel that way towards him?

I mean, who just does all this for someone? Even if you’re indebted to them. This is too much to be nothing. The notes, the waiting by doors, the way he rushes when he’s late for the blood deliveries. The way he touches him. It can’t mean anything. It means too much to him.

He wants it to mean something to Leehan. He wants Leehan to think of him.

More than this.

He wants –

He wants Leehan. Shit.

The realisation hits him like a truck. Sudden and intense. He feels like a weight has lifted off his chest, lifting him to a higher height, a strange tingling travelling from his chest.

Sitting with the conclusion of his feelings for Leehan, he’s been spiralling on what to do about it.

He can’t just leave it. He’s sure Leehan will see right through his bullshit; he’s not exactly a good liar.

But what’s he supposed to do?

Confess?

Maybe his brain is playing tricks on him or something, but that doesn’t sound like the worst idea. Leehan can’t not feel anything for him, even if it’s small.

Maybe he’ll ask him on a date; maybe that’ll help him get his answer.

Man, what the fuck? Taesan throws his arm over his face, overwhelmed with thoughts.

He makes a promise that when he gets back, he’ll talk to him.

He’ll get to know more about him.

He’ll give him the keychain.

-And he’ll confess.

Yes, okay, that’s what he’ll do.

Chapter Text

He didn’t think it was possible, but for the short time he was gone, he missed his apartment.

Lying under the comforter, the blankets wrapped around his figure as he sank deeper into the mattress. Morning rays glow from the bottom of his newly installed blackout curtains, shine against the wood, catching specks of dust floating in the room. His peaceful environment is quickly interrupted when his room door suddenly swings open. His body jolts upright, his eyes snapping to the figure standing in the doorframe. Leehan’s bright smile greets him so warmly that he could almost forgive him for the abrupt awakening—almost.

“Morning, gorgeous.” Some of the tension bled out of Taesan’s body, the panic dispersing from his body at the recognition. He lets his body slouch, hands wiping the sleep from his eyes. “What do you want?”

Leehan moves to stand next to his side of the bed, smiling as he pets the birds nest formed on top of Taesan’s head, “You.”

Me? To say his heart jumps would be an insult. What does he mean by ‘you’? Is he confessing right now? Right here?

“You owe me,” Leehan interrupts his thoughts.

Oh. Of course that’s what he meant.

A bit puzzled, Taesan asks, “Owe you for what?” Leehan grabs both sides of his face, squishing his cheeks together.

“Oh, I don’t know, maybe just for abandoning me.” Taesan pulls his face out of Leehan’s hold, only receiving a cute giggle from Leehan.“Don’t be ridiculous; I was gone for one day, ” Taesan retaliates.

“One day too long.” Leehan moves to walk towards the door of his room. “Now get dressed—we’re going on a date.”

“A what?” Did he hear that correctly? It feels like Leehan’s mission was to try confuse him this morning. Leehan walks out before Taesan can fight him on the topic.

“I’m waiting in the living room.”

What’s with him? A date? Is Leehan insane to say something like that—especially when he just figured out his feelings? Leehan doesn’t know that, but still. Taesan feels way more nervous after hearing that. A date date. Does he even mean it like that? Probably not.

Taesan gets up and dressed, his nerves a wreck as he picks what to wear. After he’s finally dressed, he stares at the box placed on top of his dresser. Before he can contemplate any longer, he grabs it, slipping it inside the pocket of his puffer jacket. He exits his room, searching for a sign of life in the living room. Leehan springs to his feet, eyes scan over Taesan’s body before landing on his eyes with a smile. Leehan immediately grabs his arm, looping it into his own, “Ready?”

Taesan’s head blanks, only managing a little nod before he’s being dragged out of his apartment. Walking down the sidewalk, the pretty cherry blossoms have started to fall. Taking it all in, the weather today was perfect: a soft breeze with blue skies, the sun shining as the petals fall softly—even though it’s not ideal for vampires, it’s still pretty. His arm is still firmly looped in with Leehan’s as they walk.

He doesn’t want his mind to dwell too much on that word, scared of being proven wrong like he has been so many times before. “The cherry blossoms are so pretty,” Taesan says, eyes tracking a few petals as they fall. “Not as pretty as you.” Leehan beams the most sickeningly charming smile, causing Taesan’s mouth to fall open, a blush spreading across his face as he turns away to hide. “God, you’re so corny.”

“You like it,” Leehan replies simply. Taesan's banter game is so thrown off. Now that he has come to terms with his feelings, It’s harder to bite back at him, and he fears Leehan can immediately tell. Leehan stops walking, pulling their focus to a cute cafe hidden between different boutiques and small restaurants. The front glass reveals all the delicious desserts and cakes behind the glass barrier, the sweet scent luring them in.

“Woah, the smell is crazy good,” Taesan says, staring down at the blueberry cheesecake in the window. “Not as good as you.” Leehan winks at him, pulling them inside before Taesan can bicker.

This definitely feels like a real date.

Sitting down, Leehan ordered a massive slice of the cheesecake Taesan had a staring contest with a few minutes ago. Leehan immediately goes to scoop up a piece onto his spoon, holding it towards Taesan, Taesan watching him in curiosity.

“What’s the point if we can barely taste it?” Taesan sits leaning back into his chair, folding his arms across his chest. “Can’t I just take you out?” Leehan asks rhetorically, squinting his eyes at Taesan. Taesan raises an eyebrow at him before leaning forward to take the spoon into his mouth. Okay, so he can kind of taste it. The slight sweetness glides on his tongue as the cheesecake melts away in his mouth.

“Good?” Leehan asks before scooping up a spoonful and trying some himself. “Mhm,” Taesan responds, swallowing. “Better than me?” Leehan smirks, holding eye contact dangerously well as he licks his spoon clean. The words dry up in Taesan's throat, needing a minute to respond. “You’re not getting that out of me.”

“You should know by now; I know how to get things out of you.” Leehan fails to hide his amusement, poking his tongue in his cheek to stop himself from laughing. “Oh, you think you’re so funny,” turning to look somewhere else. Anywhere other than Leehan’s face, attempting to hide the blush betraying him.

Examining the interior of the cafe, he notices how much fuller it’s become since they first walked in. Full of couples. Sharing slices of cake, feeding each other, making jokes, and smiling with each other. Like what Leehan and he are doing right now. Is that what they look like? Like a couple? Looking at the couple ordering from the cashier, he catches the cashier's eyes for a second. He wonders if the cashier thought they were a couple. To anyone looking at them right now, they’d think they’re a couple. They definitely look like one.

And the fact that they’re on—Leehan’s words—a date.

“Did you tell them?” Leehan asks, eyes searching Taesan. Snapping out of his thoughts, Tell who? And tell them what? Furrowing his eyebrows, he stares blankly at Leehan, wondering if Leehan’s being cryptic or if he’s just dense right now.

Realisation hits him in the face—his parents. He almost forgot about that.

“No, of course not,” Taesan says, lowering his head. He can’t imagine what his parents would say if they found out he hadn’t even been gone for 6 months and his life had been altered so drastically. “ I think they’d disown me on the spot if they found out I was a monster,” he breathes out a low laugh, lacking humour in its tone. Leehan instantly stops chewing, eyes moving to track his face.

Shit, maybe he should stop using that word. “Shit, sorry,” Taesan rushes, making quick to apologise. “I didn’t mean it like that,” Taesan says truthfully.

“Of course,” Leehan swallows, finishing up the last bite before standing up. Taesan curses at himself, fearing that he upset Leehan. He really has to stop fucking up so much. He can’t keep saying stupid things like that. Leehan pulls Taesan’s arm. “Let’s go for a walk?”

Taesan’s arm is hooked into Leehan’s again as they walk, eyeing all the shops through their windows. It shouldn’t feel this natural, but it does. Doing this with Leehan, so naturally. There’s something so familiar but unnerving about the two of them. Like he’s where he’s meant to be.

Yet he wants to know, is this what Leehan wants too? Their pathway was filled with cherry blossoms falling. There’s no way Leehan isn’t taking note of how they look; it’s sickening, actually. Arm in arm, after a cafe date, with cherry blossoms falling around them? Fuck off, are they in a romance movie? Taesan can’t help his heart from fluttering, getting glimpses of their disposition in the reflections of the glass. The moment feels too perfect. They look perfect.

“Hey, I have something to ask you.” Taesan stops, a step behind Leehan. His head is bowed as his fingers fiddle to grasp onto the box in his pocket. Here it goes. Taesan takes a step closer. Leehan turns his face towards Taesan, eyes widening as they stand halted in the middle of the walkway. Leehan has the biggest open-mouthed smile on his face. Leehan grabs Taesan’s wrist suddenly, pulling him towards a pet shop he spotted. Confused, Taesan stuffs the box back into his pocket, his heart sinking a bit. Standing in the middle of the pet shop, he feels like he’s just been edged. In the most brutal way.

Watching as Leehan's eyes and fingers track one of the fish tanks displayed against the wall, the oblivious man has no idea how Taesan was about to confess. Or at least Taesan hopes he had no idea.

“Come look here,” Leehan calls over to Taesan. Coming closer, Taesan follows Leehan’s gaze to two pale seranid fish circling the tank together.

“They’re from the western Atlantic Ocean; you can’t find them here unless they’re imported.” Leehan speaks with such wonder and knowledge on the topic that Taesan finds it adorable. He can’t help but smile softly at him, even after what just happened. “That one’s me, and that one’s you,” Leehan says, pointing to the one with darker spots and patterns as Taesan and the other with bigger, brighter stripes as himself. Taesan swears his heart just melted.

His eyes watch over Leehan’s face, and the water from the tank reflects waves over his face. Taesan’s completely mesmerised. How can someone be this pretty? His mind slipping back to when he saw him walk past his classroom that first time. How he literally glowed, beaming with light, making Taesan instantly fall. He should’ve seen this coming. What took him so long to see how gone he was for Leehan? Maybe he is really dense.

Who cares? He’s here with Leehan now. Talking about how cute the two fish are.

He’s so fucked.

A buzz from Leehan’s phone collects their attention, Leehan’s eyes scanning the screen. “Shit,” Leehan curses, just loud enough for Taesan to hear. Looking at him with apologetic eyes, “I’m late for volleyball practice.”

“Are you leaving me on our first date?”

“First date?“ Leehan smiles softly, caught a bit by surprise. Taesan wonders if he said the wrong thing. Again.

Leehan smiles softly at him, grabbing onto his hand and turning to face him. Leaning in slightly, he cocks his head to the side, smiling slyly. “Oh, you want me so bad.”

Taesan feels like the wind was knocked out of him. Leehan’s face is too close for him to hide away this time. Leehan holds onto his hand as he slowly backs away toward the exit of the store. “I’ll see you later?” he says as he bows down, bringing Taesan’s hand up to his mouth. Kissing it and winking. Before he disappears out of the store.

What the fuck was that? There’s a strange tingling left on the skin Leehan kissed. A similar static sensation lingers in his chest. He thinks his heart just exploded.

-°⛧

Following their typical Tuesday routine, Jaehyun and Leehan have taken over his living room, talking—or more like yelling—to each other over plot twists or whatever’s going on. Taesan stopped paying close attention 4 episodes ago. A simultaneous ding rings from both Jaehyun's and Taesan’s phones, inviting themselves as well as Leehan, of course, to a BBQ on Saturday that Sungho and Riwoo have planned for the group.

Sitting all together in the corner of the restaurant, Riwoo and Sungho have appointed themselves to grilling the meat for everyone, bickering over whose fault it was for the burnt slices.

Making fun of Sungho and Riwoo for being the mom and dad of the group, they laugh together. Sungho expressing how much he loves his gay sons, joking about how Jaehyun needs to get a boyfriend next. Leehan blushing slightly at the implication.

They start drinking, Leehan pouring Taesan  a shot of Soju pushing it his way. Taesan whispers a ‘no thanks’, Leehan’s face dropping slightly

“Oh, yeah.” Jaehyun slaps his hands together, turning his attention towards Taesan. “What happened with Jinyoung?” The table falls silent for a second, all focus drifting towards Taesan. Oh yeah. How could he forget?

“Who’s Jinyoung?” Riwoo asks, who was quickly shushed after by Sungho.

“My ex,” Taesan scuffs, unhinging his jaw slightly before he continues to talk. “Fucking asshole,” Sungho adds in.

“Well, I bumped into that ‘fucking asshole’ at the mall; he had the nerve to walk up to us and, can you believe it, still talk shit—a whole year later.” Taesan pauses, recalling the events.

“Yes we can believe it” Jaehyun states, swinging a shot back. Running back to the events that day, he places himself back into his own shoes.

Jaehyun adds. “I actually wish I went with you—could’ve beaten his ass.”

Taesan looks up at his friends, offering them a reassuring smile. “It’s okay, though; Leehan stepped up for me. I actually don’t know what I would’ve done if I was alone.” Taesan grabs Leehan’s hand from under the table, giving it a slight squeeze. Leehan offers him a weak smile; his eyes haven’t left Taesan’s face since he started talking.

After getting over that hill, the group returns to joking around — like always. The moment giving Taesan a breath of fresh air in a way. He’s really grateful for the friends he has now. For Jaehyun and Sungho, who’ve stuck by him through the worst. For Riwoo for making Sungho so happy, helping him since their first meeting. For Leehan. He’s really grateful for Leehan. How hard he’s been trying, how much effort he’s put into their… friendship? Situationship?

Looking next to him, Leehan's face is locked onto his shot glass, slowly twirling the glass before bottoming it up. Again. And again. Taesan taps him lightly, flinching as he snaps out of his thoughts. Blinking rapidly, he looks at Taesan. “You okay?” Taesan asks softly in his ear. Leehan pulls back. “Yeah, everything’s fine,” he responds firmly before pulling his attention to the group conversation.

As they finishing up their food, Leehan stands up and excuses himself early, saying he has to wake up early tomorrow morning. Taesan watches as Leehan greets them with a simple bow and soft smile, holding his coat on his arm. There’s this strange gnawing inside of Taesan as he watch him leave. He can feel the anticipation eat a hole into his guts, something deep within clawing to be let out, pushing him to act.

He spots Leehan not far outside, his back turned as he walks away. “ Leehan!“ Taesan calls as he jogs to catch up. Standing in front of Leehan, he stares back into his eyes. The streetlight behind Leehan creates a hallow around him, his blonde hair glowing gold as it frames his face. He doesn’t like he’s seen a prettier face in his whole life. Without thinking he stretched out his arms, pushing the box into Leehan’s chest. Leehan instinctively holding onto it. “I got you this.” Taesan swallows down the lump in his throat. “I wanted to ask if you’d—“

“Let’s stop here,” Leehan harshly interrupts, his expression unreadable but cold. Taesan’s heart plunges into his stomach; those three words knocking the wind straight out of him.

His confession dies on his tongue. “Stop here?” Taesan repeats, convinced that his ears must be betraying him.

Leehan inhales sharply. “ I don’t want to keep doing — whatever we’re doing.” Leehan admits it; his lack of emotion is almost scary.

Those words were enough for Taesan to crack. His face turns sour, his eyebrows furrowing, eyes turning dagger-like as the words poison his ears. “Whatever we’re doing? Where the fuck is this coming from?” Taesan's jaw loosens, his blood heating up. He watches Leehan’s mouth open and close again.

“Taesan, I just—“ Leehan starts, swallowing dryly, as he scrambles for words, “ I can’t do this.” If Taesan thought his heart was burnt before, now it’s scorched. Leehan’s lack of any strong emotion on his face only infuriated Taesan further, anger filling the new wounds in his chest.

Leehan reaches out, pushing the box back into Taesan's space, but Taesan steps back. “Keep it; I don’t want it.” Taesan’s words burn with anger. Leehan looks at him sorrowfully, the first time he’s shown any emotion during their confrontation. His eyes almost beg for something softer in Taesan to come forward, but he doesn’t budge. Leehan blinks, stuffing the box into his pocket, moving to leave.

“Get home safely.“ Leehan says softly.

“Fuck you.” Taesan doesn’t dare to look or watch as Leehan walks away, only hearing as the footsteps start and faintly disappear. Just like that, he leaves him again. He should be used to this feeling, being tossed aside when they don’t want you anymore. He should be numb even. He sunk into the illusion that this would somehow have been different, but he should’ve known. It always goes like this. Why would Leehan be an exception? He chewed up his heart and spat it back out like it was nothing.

A wave crashes into him as he hears his friends, his lip trembling when he tries to explain. He squats down, sitting on the concrete stairs, the dams behind his eyes finally breaking. As his emotions take over, tears shedding as quickly as they build up, sobbing on someone’s shoulder; he’s not even sure who.

God, he really is pathetic.

Chapter Text

“Why’s yesterday’s blood collecting dust on your table?”

Ricky asks sternly, leaning against the doorframe as he watches Taesan lie sluggishly in bed. His hunger strike concerns Ricky, who has now resumed the duty of delivering Taesan blood in the mornings.

“And the extra ones I put in your fridge. Did you even see those?” Ricky is acting as a strict parent who just caught their child sneaking around.

“Please, just let me suffer in peace.” Taesan's responses are muffled as he stuffs his face into the pillow. He hasn’t been able to stomach anything after Saturday night. His body going numb to the sensation of even being hungry, he’s just been sleeping, scrolling through his phone until he starts to get too sad and cries himself to sleep. Again and again, like an endless loop.

No matter how hard he tries to not think about him, his mind betrays him, running back every single time. Not a single text. Not a single call. Leehan disappeared out of his life, leaving him with nothing but their last chats to each other and empty promises.

Fortunately, he didn’t have to be on campus last week, but unfortunately, today he has to make an appearance. With the term wrapping up, he has exam after exam slowly piling up, so he doesn’t have much of a choice but to go. Which meant possibly seeing Leehan.

Probably seeing Leehan, if he’s being honest.

He did well the first day back, managing to not catch a glimpse of Leehan the whole day. His heart is in too fragile a state to handle anything more. Seeing Ricky that Sunday morning already tore him to shreds, reminding him how real and cruel his reality was.

Friday would mark the end of week one of his suffering on campus; he can finally return to his bed at the end of the day. And suffer there instead. Gathering his things from his desk, he walks with Gyuvin and Nakyoung out of the lecture hall, greeting them a good weekend before turning to leave. He locks eyes with Leehan. Walking with a group of people he vaguely recognises from the volleyball team. Of course the universe hates him, throwing him under completely just when he thinks he’s in the clear. This is the first time seeing him in almost a week, the wind completely knocking out of him. But he averted his gaze, walking straight past him, schooling the coldest scowl he could manage.

Thinking about it more only cuts him deeper, reopening the wounds over and over again. But he can’t help it. He can’t stop himself. In a sense he misses him, but in the same sense he hates his guts. The fact that Leehan knew how badly he’d been treated in the past only made things worse. He opened up and bared his heart to him just for him to leave him with more scars to carry through life.

Nothing manages to cheer him up; he feels bad about how much he makes Sungho and Jaehyun worry about him. Jaehyun’s been making more excuses to see him at his place, walking him home and even buying Taesan raw meat so they can eat together – and make sure Taesan ate something that day. Sungho’s no different, ditching Riwoo if Taesan looked extra sad that day, texting and calling to check if he’s still alive – still half dead but yes.

“Taesan”. Ricky gaped at him, at a loss for what Taesan was doing. “Why are you still not eating?”

“I’m not hungry,” Taesan responds, slurring his words. And he wasn’t lying. He hasn’t felt hungry in days.

“Don’t bullshit me,“ Ricky snaps, sounding deadly fed up with Taesan’s attitude. “Sit up and drink this right now.” Taesan’s eyes open enough for him to focus fully on what’s being handed to him. Ricky hands him a small bowl filled with fresh blood. The smell pierced through his stomach, immediately drawing a strong growl. Glancing up at Ricky, he fears if he defies him one more time, he’ll make Ricky angrier, and with how Ricky is acting now, he doesn’t want to see that.

As soon as the blood touches the back of his throat, his body buzzes in relief and satisfaction. Finally having a proper meal after starving for so long, before he even registers it, the bowl is completely empty.

“See?” Ricky says, relaxed after seeing Taesan feed. Slouching on Taesan's nightstand, he brings a hand over his face. “Fuck, man, Taesan, I was so worried about you.” Lowering the bowl into his lap and glancing over to see Ricky this wrecked over him pulls at his heartstrings. He’s been so consumed in his own feelings he didn’t think about how tough this must be on him as well.

“I’m sorry, I just—“ Taesan starts to tear up, that gnawing feeling inside him returning and clawing its way out. “I don’t know what’s going on.” He lets out a hot breath, a tear sliding down his cheek, Ricky moving to hold him and rest Taesan’s head against his shoulder, resting his own head on top to listen. “What did I do?” Taesan starts sobbing, Ricky holding him. “Nothing, you did nothing wrong.” Taesan continued to cry. It hurts more that he doesn’t know why it all happened. Was he just easy? Easy to fuck. Easy to use. Easy to get rid of.

He stalls, peeling his head off Ricky’s shoulder to wipe his sleeve over the remnants on his eyes and cheeks. Calming himself for a minute, sitting in silence with Ricky. Breaking into tears in front of someone always felt so embarrassing, although he’s grateful it was Ricky. Someone he can talk openly with – honestly with.

“Can I ask you something?” Taesan’s voice is soft, cracking at some points in the sentence. Ricky stares into his side profile, gently rubbing his back to bring him comfort.

“Is drinking blood, like, a sexual thing?” Taesan asks, exhausted eyes staring at Ricky. Ricky thinks for a bit before answering, almost picking his words carefully.

“It definitely can be. I mean, for the most part, I think that’s a common denominator,” Ricky answers truthfully. Taesan nods, understanding what he means. He already knew the answer before he asked, but the confirmation helped.

“Why’d you ask?” Ricky tilts his head, concerned, examining Taesan’s face.

“Just curious” Ricky knows he’s lying but doesn’t push. And he’s grateful for that, fearing if he talks more, he’ll break down again.

-°⛧

It’s been 1 month, and for the most part, he’s been doing better.

He’s gotten used to the taste of the bland blood Ricky’s been delivering, drinking it so Ricky doesn’t kill him. He’s also begun to focus properly in his classes again, just in time, as their term ends soon.

However, whenever he sees Leehan, his heart squeezes tightly. He’s still hanging out with the same group of guys he first saw him with, one guy in particular his clear favourite. Even sitting in the crowded cafeteria, over everyone’s loud voices, his ears hone in on Leehan’s laugh, the fluctuations and deep tone etched into his brain too hard in his memory to ignore. When he can’t sleep at night, and his mind runs back to Leehan, that voice haunts him. The endless possible reasons have all run their course through his mind already. Doing relays if his brain decides that he needs to be taunted extra that night.

His strongest conclusion is that Leehan’s feelings were more of guilt than romantic. Only repaying Taesan with kindness and care because he felt he had to. And when he thought it was enough, he let go. Maybe letting him suck his blood only made him stay a little longer.

Saturday evening, Ricky calls him to meet at his place. Which is new since he’s never been to Ricky’s before. Walking up to the reception and being sent up to one of the highest floors, Taesan can’t help but feel nervous. This place looks expensive. Like generational wealth, kind of expensive. But he guesses that his parents and he have had a longer time to build their lives than others, so it makes sense.

The elevator doors open, revealing a massive black door, the only one on the floor. Ricky is quick to open the door before Taesan can even knock, greeting him warmly and welcoming him in. Taesan can’t believe he’s never been here. His eyes almost pop out of his head with how big his place is; everything’s clean, polished and as expensive-looking as Ricky’s face.

Lucky bastard.

Turning his head to the couch, his eyebrows furrow into a deep V as he stares at the couch. “Why is Gyuvin here?”

“I ask that question every day,” Ricky says, as he places his keys down in the porcelain bowl near his door. 

Gyuvin sits up a bit higher on the couch, waving his hand to greet Taesan before returning his attention to whatever video game he’s busy with on Ricky’s massive TV.

“I knew you were loaded, but this is crazy,” Taesan states, plopping his sling bag down onto Ricky’s couch, sitting next to Gyuvin. “Also, since when are you two living—“ Taesan stops as he looks at Gyuvin, something else catching his attention.

“Did you turn him into a vampire!?” Taesan half shouts, mouth falling open as he stares at the scars on Gyuvin’s neck. Gyuvin quickly slaps his hand over his neck, completely forgetting to cover up in front of Taesan. Both of them stare with wide eyes at each other, fear bluetoothed to each other.

“No, he came like that,” Ricky states nonchalantly, leaning against a wall with his arms crossed. Taesan snaps his head back at Gyuvin, confusion replaced with frustration. “You kept hiding your marks, so I just thought you didn’t want me to know, so I pretended not to,” Gyuvin admits. Before Taesan can even muster a word back, Ricky interrupts.

“Okay, now that you’re here, we can go.”

“Go where?”

-°⛧

Standing in the middle of buttfuck nowhere in the depth of the night, Ricky locks the car and leads them to what looks like an abandoned building, but the loud music and chattering of people outside suggest otherwise.

“Where are we?” Taesan asks, Gyuvin and Ricky looking too relaxed for his liking, clear that they’ve been here before.

“It’s like a club,” Gyuvin answers, as the guy by the door lets them slip through the threshold. Taesan immediately gets hit with the smell of blood. everywhere. Looking around, he sees people holding glasses of different shades of red.

“Everyone here’s a vampire, so you don’t have to worry. All the drinks are blood infused too,” Ricky informs Taesan. His stomach let him know later before Ricky could, walking towards the bar. “Do you want anything to drink?” Ricky shoots at Taesan.

“Something strong”

Taesan weirdly feels at ease here. The fact that everyone here is the same makes him feel normal. Like he can talk freely, clearly letting loose by having alcohol. He’s surprised to see some familiar faces, people he’s seen in passing on campus, a few in his class. He’s actually very surprised, as he thought there were only a few of them around.

“Taesan?”

His heart jumps as he hears a voice call out his name. A guy of similar height walks up to him, his boyish charm hard to not find alluring. Looking at him longer, his mind clicks as he remembers. “Dohoon, right?” Taesan responds, coming out more like a question.

“Oh, you know my name?” Dohoon says in pout before flashing him a shy smile. What’s up with all these good-looking vampires having perfect smiles?

“I’ve heard it mentioned a few times,” Taesan responds, side-eyeing Gyuvin. “Only good things, I hope?” Dohoon responds, awkwardly greeting Gyuvin before returning his attention back to Taesan.

“We’re going to go dance; don’t have too much fun.” Ricky winks at Taesan, the underlying meaning behind those words making Taesan wonder what his goal was in bringing him here.

Dohoon moves to stand next to him at the bar table after Ricky and Gyuvin leave. Silence falls between them, Dohoon appearing shyer and more awkward now. Clearing his throat, he turns towards Taesan to talk again. “I didn’t know you were a vampire.”

“I didn’t know you were either; I would have never said,” Taesan comments, taking a sip from his drink.

“I know; it makes me feel like I’m mysterious,” Dohoon says, scrunching up his nose as he talks. Taesan can’t help but laugh lightly, finding him quite cute.

“Is this your first time? I’ve never seen you here before.” Dohoon asks, his big brown eyes dancing around Taesan’s face.

“Mhm, my friends dragged me here, actually.”

“Mine too, they’ve done this three times now” dohoon looking into the crowd to see where his friends are dancing. “–But I’m glad they did; I always wanted to talk to you.”

Oh?

Dohoon smiles at him shyly, a tinge too sweet for the place they’re in right now. Taesan’s not drunk enough to be imagining that the fine man in front of him is flirting with him. That must be why Ricky and Gyuvin left them alone together. Yeah, he’s definitely dense.

“Oh, really?” Taesan looks up at him, deciding to tease him. Dohoon blushes, almost like he’s just realising what he’s said, his ears turning a shade of pink and his eyes switching to trace along the floor. “That’s really cute.” Dohoon's eyes flicker back up, surprised by Taesan’s response being so positive to his slip-up.

Taesan finishes his drinks, placing the glass with ice on the table. “Can I buy you a drink?” Dohoon asks softly. It’s crazy how clearly he can hear him through all the noises around him.

“You really don’t have to.” Taesan sends him a soft smile. Dohoon sits shyly, holding eye contact with Taesan. “I want to, though.”

“Why are you being so nice?” Taesan asks, squinting his eyes accusingly at Dohoon. Dohoon spits out various versions of ‘no’ and ‘it’s not like that’ in a frenzy of defending himself. Eventually he calms down, Taesan finding his frantic panicking enduring.

“Alcohol helps me not be so nervous.” Dohoon avoids eye contact. “And I always wanted to speak to you, so I guess I need more to drink.” Something about that line made his chest flutter, him wanting to communicate better with Taesan.

“Don’t worry; you’re doing good on your own,” Taesan flirts back at him. Dohoon's body relaxes, shoulders dropping lower. Taesan looks at him, his dark hair sweeping over his eyes. He finds Dohoon to be super friendly; just talking to him feels like he took vitamins. Taesan finds himself pleasantly entertained by Dohoon for most of the night. Learning how he’s a medical bioscience student, how he’s been a vampire since birth and an all-time sweetheart

“So I kind of have to leave soon, but I wanted to ask—“ Dohoon's shy demeanour returned as if they hadn’t spent the past hour talking to each other. “Can I get your number?”

“Of course,” Taesan responds, watching as Dohoon clumsily pulls out his phone, handing it over upside down. Smiling as Dohoon busies himself fixing his mistake, Taesan types his number into his phone.

“Thank you,” Dohoon responds, half bowing. Taesan laughs at the formality. Another small beat of silence falls between them, Dohoon quickly controlling himself from smiling at his phone. “See you at campus?”

“See you at campus.” Taesan smiles, Dohoon awkwardly greeting him goodbye, running clumsily after his friends, who tease him as they walk out of the club.

Cute.

-°⛧

“It still feels the same,” Jaehyun says, sinking into the beanbag chair in Sungho’s room. “It’s been 5 months; calm down.” Sungho comments from the couch where him and Woonhak are playing Tekken, Woonhak whipping his ass.

“Just let me enjoy myself.” Jaehyun folds his arms behind his head, basking in the comfort. Taesan occupies Sungho’s bed, scrolling through video after video on his timeline.

Opening his messages to respond to a few texts, he hovers his finger over Leehan’s chat. Clicking in, all his messages remain unread. The messages are frozen in time. Curiosity gets the best of him. He reaches the trenches and decides to search for any social media accounts that Leehan may have. Even searching his name on Google, with little to no avail.

“Oh, hell no,” he hears from next to him, jumping as he sees Jaehyun looking into his phone. Taesan quickly locks his phone, placing it face down onto the bed. “Dude! Don’t look at my phone.”

“You’re just mad you got caught.”

“Caught doing what?” Sungho and Woonhak give him a disgusted look, minds instantly going in the gutter. “No, not that!” Taesan half-shouts.

“Worse. He was looking up Leehan’s name on Google,” Jaehyun teased.

“That is worse.” Sungho says.

“Why are you using Google for that? You’re turning into a grandpa,” Woonhak says, taking off his headset.

Woonhak gets up and takes his phone, unlocking it, Taesan flashing him eyes as he’s surprised he even knows his password. Making a mental note to change it. Woonhak goes into Instagram, typing various versions of Leehan’s name, going through mutual friends between accounts, and going through who others follow before finally striking gold. “There, that wasn’t even that hard,” Woonhak says, handing the phone back to Taesan. Sungho, Jaehyun, and Taesan are all looking at the account with curious eyes.

“Well, he definitely likes fish,” Woonhak concludes. “Yeah, a lot.” Jaehyun backs Woonhak up.

“Whatever, enough about him,” Taesan says hopelessly, leaning back into the softness of the bed. “Oh yeah, sorry, you’ve already moved on – to taller men.” Sungho teases, smirking as he speaks.

“Shut up.”

Catching a glimpse of the time, he realises that he can’t bike home as it’s gotten too late. He washes up and puts on a borrowed pyjama set from Sungho. This used to be a regular thing for them, but now it feels so special since they haven’t had a proper sleepover on campus.

Taking the couch, while the other three squeeze onto Sungho’s bed, he unlocks his phone and is rudely still greeted with Leehan’s Instagram. He closes his eyes, mentally cursing because he knows he’s going to stalk him again. Scrolling through his highlights, he catches glimpses of his face; he doesn’t post a lot of his face. He holds down the screen at one storey. Of Leehan smiling brightly as he dangles his feet off a wooden ledge, feet submerged in water. The sunlight highlighting his hair in a similar halo that echoes when he ‘first’ saw him on campus. The next picture makes him catch his breath – a picture of the two fish from the pet shop. Taesan bites the inside of his cheek. He can already feel he’ll have to fight some tears away soon if he doesn’t stop himself from thinking too much.

A text steals his attention. The notification caught his eye.

xxx-xxxx-xxxx

[ 22:34 ]
Hey! It’s Dohoon.

Taesan

[ 22:35 ]
Took you long enough. 🙄

Dohoon

[ 22:36 ]
I knowww, I’m sorry.
I’m a horrible texter.

Taesan

[ 22:38 ]
Then call me.

Taesan doesn’t know what possessed him to test that so confidently; maybe he doubted that Dohoon would actually comply with his attempt. Checking if the trio on the bed were actually asleep, he slides to answer the call.

He’s greeted with Dohoon's raspy voice, “Hey”. The tone alone lighting a flame in the bottom of his stomach.

“Hey” Taesan responds, trying to sound as unaffected as possible. “ I didn’t expect you to actually call.”

“Oh! I’m sorry, am I keeping you up?” Dohoon asks softly, a little embarrassed.

“No, no, you’re fine.”

“Okay, good.” Dohoon speaks gently, a soft huff of air travelling through the mic.

Silence falls between the two; this guy truly is an introvert. Taesan can’t help himself from laughing at the awkwardness in the air.

“Sorry, I’m just very shy,” Dohoon admits anxiously; Taesan can see the blush on his ears in his mind. Taesan's heart warms a little, finding Dohoon's mannerisms and habits to be quite charming.

“Don’t apologise so much; it’s really okay.” Taesan says truthfully, calming him down. “If anything, I find it cute.”

Dohoon goes silent for a bit, Taesan having a feeling it’s because he got even shyer.

“How’s break been so far?” Taesan asks, sparing Dohoon this one time.

“It’s okay; most of my friends moved away for college, so it’s a bit boring with just my family.” Dohoon voice bitterly admits, “But I did miss them, so it’s nice at times.”

“Mmm, I know what you mean,” Taesan hums in agreement.

“How’s your holiday going?”

“Relaxing for the most part, I just have to measure out my blood bags so I don’t starve while I’m here.” Speaking this opening to Dohoon feels strange. In a good way.

“Ahhh, I get you. It must be difficult to do alone.” Dohoon sympathises, pausing before asking, “Do you plan on telling them?”

“Unless I slip up badly, nope.” Dohoon lets out a breathy laugh at that, the melody going straight through Taesan's chest, this strange tingling feeling lingering.

“Uhm, I actually wanted to ask…” Dohoon clears his throat, nervously.

“Yes?”

“When we get back, could we maybe do something?” He pauses, “Like together”.

“Like a date?” Taesan teases, hearing Dohoon fumble some words together as he gets even more nervous. “If you’d like to?” Dohoon’s voice is laced with apprehension.

“I’d like that a lot.” Taesan can’t keep his smile in as his heart is swelling up.

“Really??” Dohoon sounds so enlightened, quickly calming his voice down. “Uhm, okay, I’ll see you next week?”

“See you next week.“ Taesan smiles softly, his cheeks hurting at this point.

“Goodnight, Taesan.”

“Goodnight, hoon,” hearing him gulp on the other end before the call flatlines.

He smiles to himself, smitten by Dohoon. How easy it is to make him so nervous and a mess.

“Goodnight, hoon,” the three repeat in a nasally tone, teasing him from the bed. “Fuck off!” Taesan throws a pillow at them, dying from embarrassment. No matter how much teasing, that still can’t distract him from how he has a date in a week.

A real date.

Chapter Text

Taesan waits for Dohoon, leaning against the wall outside his class. The windows across his class let a warm haze flood the hallway. He reaches his hand out to catch a ray, watching as his hand begins to warm, a tingling sensation sizzling his skin. It’s sad to think that the only time he gets to feel the sun properly on his skin is when it burns him.

Dohoon pulls Taesan into the shade, checking the exposed skin. “Hey! Be careful!” Dohoon pouts, worry flushing his face. The touch is sudden, but Taesan won’t complain. His eyes travel over Dohoon’s face before smiling, “Hey.”

Dohoon's eyes flicker down to Taesan’s lips. He swallows as he becomes hyperaware that he’s holding Taesan’s hand and lets go of his hand. Taesan can’t help but smile. Dohoon's whole face is starting to burn red, the blush violent and persistent.

A head pops up from behind Dohoon, Taesan recognising him as Dohoon’s friend, his brown caramel hair and bunny-like appearance very recognisable. “Oh, hey, Taesan!” His kindness is unyielding, the welcoming tone of his voice hard for anyone to hate. “Hey, Youngjae.”

The three chat as they walk to their next class, making their way through the crowd of students. It’s only been three days since the semester began, yet Taesan found himself building a comfortable routine with Dohoon already. He waits for Dohoon after his class before lunch; they sit with Jaehyun, Sungho and Youngjae as they chatter – most of them eat away – and walk together before breaking off to the separate dorm buildings.

On the way, Youngjae breaks off from the trio, leaving once he’s reached his class. Waving as they walk away, Taesan and Dohoon walk together through the cafeteria. “Soo... do you like bowling?” Dohoon asks, tilting his head with a sweet yet nervous smile playing on his lips.

“I’ve never been.”

“Do you think you’ll like it?” Dohoon asks, talking in a pout, furrowing his brows upwards, unsure as he asks

“Why? You want to take me bowling?” Taesan teases, smirking at him.

Dohoon smiles shyly, looking down again, attempting to hide his blushing face. “Maybe,” he responds, looking up again. “Only if you like bowling.”

Taesan’s eyes light up, travelling across Dohoon’s face. Taesan’s not sure how someone can be this enduringly cute and hot at the same time. “Shut up, you’re so cute” Taesan’s states, lightly nudging Dohoon’s arm. Dohoon’s eyes went wide for a second, clearly struck by the adjective.

Dohoon breaks the stare off, clearing his throat as he’s brought back to earth. Taesans was too occupied with Dohoon to notice it before, but now it’s piercing through his chest. As his eyes focus past Dohoon, onto the familiar figures far behind him. Taesan spots Leehan, leaning against one of the cafeteria tables, arms holding him up as he talks to a man, standing almost slotted between his legs. A sharp, pin-like sting strikes Taesan’s insides as he watches the man make Leehan laugh, the sound stabbing deep into Taesan’s ears.

“Oh – shit. I need to get my laptop from my dorm,” Dohoon says, bringing his one hand to his face. Taesan’s focus snaps, returning to the man in front of him. Dohoon stares at Taesan, his eyes sparkling at him as he scans Taesan’s face. Taesan’s face relaxes, releasing tension he didn’t know he was holding.

Guess they’re both moving on.

“Let’s go get it.” Taesan watches as Dohoon's face lights up, smiling at the idea of them going to his dorm together. Taesan moves his hands towards Dohoon’s, hooking his pinky on Dohoon’s – Dohoon, of course – freezing at the touch, only relaxing as Taesan offers him a soft warm smile. Dohoon drags Taesan, leading the way as they exit the cafeteria. Taesan doesn’t miss how a pair of eyes in his peripherals tracks them.

Everything about Dohoon is warm. His smile, his skin, his personality and his apartment are no exception. Soft, low lighting scatters the apartment, making everything seem so cosy and inviting.

“Make yourself at home; I’ll just go grab it quickly,” Dohoon says before walking through the hall and disappearing into a room.

Now that Taesan’s eyes can snoop freely, they travel down his bookshelf, reading various topics from medicine to fantasy fiction. His eyes flicker to the next display case, bearing all his Legos and Gundam figures. Dohoon really does wear his heart on his sleeve; everything that Taesan’s witnessed so far has been nerdy but cute. Just like him.

“Are you planning to kill me and sell my organs or something?” Taesan asks, loud enough for Dohoon to hear from anywhere in his apartment.

Dohoon walks into the room, concerned as he looks at Taesan Asian, squatting on the floor. “What?”

“You’re just too… perfect.” Taesan says, sliding his finger down the spine of one of the books Dohoon has, before pulling himself up to his feet.

Dohoon lets out a low scoff, scrunching his face to keep himself from laughing. Taesan lets himself smile, his eyes again looking at the massive Gundam on top of Dohoon’s shelf. Dohoon walks up to Taesan, following his eyes.

“You’re so nerdy.” Taesan states, Dohoon furrowing his eyes, unsure how to take it. “In a good way”

“You have a thing for nerds?” Dohoon flirts, insinuation obvious.

“Only ones named Dohoon” Dohoon’s cheeks burn; his one-second-long flirt off was done, won by Taesan. “See, you’re a cutie pie,” Taesan says, pinching his cheek before walking towards the door.

“I’m not a ‘cutie pie’,” Dohoon retaliates, rubbing the cheek Taesan pinched.

“Whatever you say,”

-°⛧

Dohoon really sucks at bowling.

- But at least he looks good while doing it.

Loud clattering of bowling balls hitting the smooth wooden flooring, loud voices encouraging each other and neon signs flood across the alley.

Sitting on the chairs in their part of the bowling alley, Taesan watches as Dohoon throws his bowling ball into the gutter, holding his hands on his head as he watches the ball roll in despair.

Dohoon’s score has consistently gone between 0, 1 and 3 every turn. Taesan is basically wiping the floor with him, scoring in the higher numbers, even earning himself a turkey at one stage.

“This can’t be your first time bowling; you have to be lying,” Dohoon says from his seat, throwing a tantrum over Taesan’s high score.

Taesan stands up, selecting one of the bowling balls on the rack. Holding up a blue-red marble, he turns to look deadpan at Dohoon. “Do I look like a liar?” Taesan rhetorically asks.

Dohoon crosses his arms, pouting bigger and furrowing his eyebrows deeper, “Yes”. Taesan laughs at his response and behaviour, Dohoon smiling up at Taesan.

Taesan faces Dohoon and smirks before placing a hand over his eyes. Turning back, he throws the bowling ball, knocking over 5 pins. It’s not a strike but still higher than any score Dohoon has earned this session.

“Come on! Now you’re just showing off!” Dohoon whines, sulking openly. Taesan walks over to his side, pinching his cheek, as they both laugh. Dohoon has loosened up a lot more since they got into the swing of bowling, the adrenaline most likely taking over his nervous system.

Dohoon stands up, peeling his hoodie over his head, the shirt underneath riding up a bit. Taesan’s eyes linger on the exposed skin, the neon lights casting shadows defining the muscles, until it’s cruelly covered again. Picking up a bowling ball, he slides his fingers smoothly into the holes, arm muscles flexing at the added weight. Throwing the ball and hitting nothing but gutter can’t even distract Taesan from imagining what other things those hands could do.

Finishing their game, Dohoon plops down next to Taesan, tossing his head back. Taesan can see a sheer layer of sweat that has built up from the activity, his neck and Adam's apple shining prettily. Taesan swallows, his mind going places he had yet to imagine with Dohoon. Taesan hasn’t thought of him like this too deeply before – yes, Dohoon is hot, but his cute demeanour always overpowered it.

The neon lights and loud noise from the arcade area behind them snap Taesan from his thoughts. He watches as people play various games, in different stages of laughing and focusing as they verse each other. Dohoon’s eyes follow before he stands up and offers Taesan a hand.

Dohoon’s eyes lock onto Taesan’s face, seeing him looking at the arcade games. “Wanna go?” Getting up, he offers a hand for Taesan to grab, pulling him up.

Dohoon dominates him in some shooting game, skilfully holding the gun and aiming accurately at the zombies on the screen. Taesan already died halfway through, just watching Dohoon play. Taesan makes up for it when he scores the most points in a basketball hoop game, not missing how intense Dohoon stared as arms. After spending too much money on tokens and witnessing Dohoon laugh the loudest, they decide to call it a night.

Taking an Uber back to the university, Dohoon drifts off, his head falling onto Taesan's shoulder. Looking at Dohoon, his cheek is squished against his shoulder, making his lips pout more than usual. His face looking even cuter like this. Taesan smiles softly, laying his head against Dohoon's; he smells sweet and salty, the scent of his sweet blood mixing with a light sweaty musk.

Taesan turns his attention to the window outside, catching their reflection in the car window. His heart drops when he sees Lee Han lying on his shoulder, his blond hair spreading on his shoulder, sleeping peacefully. What the fuck? Snapping his head to next to him, Dohoon is there, and when he looks again at the window, everything’s back to normal.

Unsettled, Taesan focuses his eyes on the road in front of them, grounding himself as they get closer and closer to a more familiar destination. Taesan pets Dohoon’s head, waking him up. Looking up and straightening himself up, he makes a small stretch before recognising that they’ve reached their uni. Opening the door, he offers his hand out for Taesan to grab. Taesan tentatively grabs onto his hand, Dohoon helping him out of the car.

Dohoon intertwines their fingers as he starts to walk him to his dorm. Oh? The newfound confidence caught Taesan off guard. Taesan tries not to think too much about it, or his mind might go into overdrive. Reaching Taesan’s door, still hand in hand, Dohoon rubs his thumb over the back of Taesan’s hand. looking into his eyes. “I hope you had fun,” Dohoon says, smiling with his eyes.

“Always,” Taesan sleepily replies, feeling a bit weird being so close with someone so fast. Dohoon takes a hesitant step forward and, before Taesan can react, plants a kiss on Taesan’s forehead.

Taesan feels like time stopped, his brain frying. Pleasantly taken aback, he pauses to look Dohoon in the eyes. Dohoon’s whole face is completely red, blushing as if he didn’t just do that. It’s cute to think that he probably mustered up a lot to do that so out of the blue. Taesan smiles, blinking at Dohoon.

“Goodnight, hoon.”

“Goodnight, T,” Dohoon smiles. Stuffing his hands into his hoodie, he looks at the floor, still smiling, before turning around to walk. Taesan leans against the door frame for a bit, watching as he rounds the corner, disappearing.

-°⛧

“You’re all out, by the way,” Taesan says, handing a glass his way before crossing his legs and sitting on the floor in Dohoon’s living room.

“Of blood?” Dohoon asks, taking the glass, watching Taesan take a sip and nod.

“We should go get more,” Dohoon says, chugging his glass and standing up. Taesan is taken aback, but the speed tries to follow suit, swallowing big gulps at a time.

“I don’t exactly know where to go,” Taesan says honestly, looking up at Dohoon.

“Don’t worry, I got us,” Dohoon says, reaching his hand out to help Taesan stand up. This seems to be a gesture Dohoon has become used to with Taesan. Offering a hand, holding it and leading the way to wherever Dohoon wanted to drag them to.

“I don’t know why I’m surprised there are so many types,” Taesan laughs to himself, squatting down and staring intensively at the bottom of the fridge. Dohoon is standing next to him holding a small basket, stacking up bag after bag.

The shop was hidden at the back of another store, the operation not open to the public for obvious reasons. The store had a green tint, the tube lights pooling light onto them.

“ I was surprised when I first found out too – given I was 3,” Dohoon states, half teasing Taesan. Taesan pinches at his calves, Dohoon laughing as he moves out of harm's reach.

Standing up, he places a bag in the basket, and they make their way to the cash register. Walking out of the store, they make their way back to Dohoon’s apartment. It suddenly begins raining HARD, running doing little to stop them both from getting drenched. Even with Dohoon pulling his jacket over both their heads, they still couldn’t avoid it.

That leads to where Taesan is now, sick in bed. He hasn’t spent this much time alone in his apartment since he properly got to know Dohoon, the two always going to his place instead.

If Taesan’s being honest, he’s been avoiding his apartment. The once warm and inviting atmosphere has gone cold and dark. The bright memories it held are now lost. It stopped feeling like home and more just like somewhere he’d crash at and leave early in the morning. Being stuck there made things worse, everything creeping back to him.

Dohoon's been a massive help, though. He’s been visiting Taesan, bringing him medicine and force-feeding him copious amounts of blood. Sitting together in the living room, Dohoon hands him a warm cup of blood and some differently shaped tablets. “You’re going to get sick too,” Taesan responds, referring to how close Dohoon always sat to him.

“Don’t worry about me; take your meds,” Dohoon responds, placing the tablets in Taesan’s hand. Taesan chucks them in his mouth as Dohoon pushes the cup in Taesan’s hands to his mouth and lifts it up. Taesan is side-eyeing him during the encounter.

The front door swings open, grabbing both of their attention. Taesan swallows down the medicine and liquid in his mouth, making a pained face as it travels down his throat.

Jaehyun appears with a plastic bag in his hand, clearly having come back from a store.

“Do you not knock?” Taesan rhetorically asks, Jaehyun not even bothering to answer at all. Jaehyun spots Dohoon and smirks as he walks closer to where they’re sat on the floor. “Am I interrupting you and pretty boy?”

Dohoon makes a cute fuss, instantly blushes, his hands coming up to deny the compliment. Taesan just rolls his eyes, accustomed to Jaehyun's teasing from years of torture.

“I wasn’t sure what to get, so I just got a lot of things,” Jaehyun says, plopping the bag down on the coffee table in front of the two. The man from behind Jaehyun creeps out from behind Jaehyun, his face finally visible. Dohoon's body tenses up, his eyes snapping to the stranger's face. His smile and shy demeanour darkening into something colder, more sorrowful. Taesan takes notice of that.

“Oh, this is Shinyu,” Jaehyun introduces brightly. He then turns to Shinyu and gestures their way, “That’s Taesan and Dohoon.” He bows quickly before dropping his eyes to anywhere but the two of them.

“Nice to meet you,” Taesan responds awkwardly, sensing the strange and weird tension in the air.

Jaehyun and Shinyu didn’t linger for long, saying something about needing to help Sungho with something. After the two leave, the atmosphere left behind was still thick. Taesan turns to Dohoon. “So… what was that about?”

“He’s my ex.”

“Ahhh.” Taesan nods, taking in the information, grabbing his cup and taking a thoughtful sip.

“We dated for a year in high school, before I became a full vampire. It was harder for me to hide that part of him, and I didn’t want to lie to him more than I already was.” Dohoon pauses in thought, Taesan examining his side profile carefully. “Especially when I had to feed fresh for the first time, I was scared in case anything happened or I slipped up one day. I think he’d think I’m a monster.” Dohoon’s head drops as he finishes his sentence, obviously bringing back bad memories.

“I don’t think you’re a monster,” Taesan says, his hand moving to hold onto Dohoon’s hand spread on the floor. Dohoon glances at him, slowly closing his eyes and smiling at him as a thanks.

Taesan leans his head into Dohoon’s shoulder, Dohoon leaning in and resting his cheek on the top of Taesan’s head. Dohoon’s arm presses into the edge of the couch as he plays with Taesan’s hair.

The action calms Taesan down, the awkward interaction minutes ago dispersing from his head, focusing on the soft scrape of Dohoon's fingertips on his scalp. They fall into a comfortable silence, only their breathing being heard and the chirpy noises from outside.

“Think you’ll be better in time for the volleyball game?” Dohoon asks after a few minutes of silence, both consumed in their thoughts.

“Why? Are you planning on showing me off?“ Taesan smirks as he replies, Dohoon softly laughing, Taesan’s head moving along with the laugh. “Maybe”

“Wouldn’t miss it”

Chapter Text

The sound of pencils scraping against paper and the flipping of books fills the library. Taesan sits studying with Jaehyun, Gyuvin and Sungho, silence filling their space as they focus.

Dohoon’s been busier and busier with volleyball practice with the game against their rival college coming up soon. The two only manage to catch lunch or spend the late evenings together.

Taesan feels a weight on the side of his face; turning his face, he catches a pair of eyes watching him. The stare severed as soon as Taesan lifted his head, watching Leehan as his eyes flit away. Furrowing his eyebrows, Taesan adjusts his jacket, feeling a little uncomfortable.

“Did you see that?” Gyuvin asks, eyes pointedly looking at Leehan as he exits the room.

“What? Leehan is staring at Taesan? That’s nothing new,” Jaehyun comments, continuing to scribble in his notebook.

“But isn’t it a bit weird?” Gyuvin whispers across the table at Jaehyun.

“He is a bit weird,” Sungho replies. “Now focus.” Sungho gestures, pointing his pen from Gyuvin’s face then to the book in front of him.

Not even a minute goes by of Gyuvin ‘focusing’ before he starts again, putting his pen down and folding his arms. “ I don’t get it, though. If he’s still obsessed with you, why did he call it off?”

Taesan stops writing, gripping onto his pen as it presses too hard on his notebook. “You tell me,” Taesan says, bringing up one hand to hold his head up.

Gyuvin looks at him, examining his state. He glances at Sungho and Jaehyun, who all score the same expression. Deciding to drop the topic there, Gyuvin goes back to his books.

It’s been long enough.

He shouldn’t be this bothered about Leehan’s stares or how quiet he gets when Taesan walks by, but he is. Leehan’s the one that called things off; he shouldn’t be staring at him like he’s in the wrong for moving on and ignoring him.

-°⛧

The squeaking sound of sneakers and the ball hit against the wooden floor vibrates through the gymnasium. Taesan’s sitting next to Ricky as they watch Dohoon and Gyuvin fight for their lives on the court. It’s the first time Taesan’s seen Dohoon play – Dohoon making an excuse of how he wouldn’t be able to focus properly on practice if Taesan was there.

Dohoon set the ball up for Seunghan, spiking the ball hard into the opposite court, earning a point for the team. The crowd on their side roars, the team looking smug with the slick move they performed.

Dohoon moves across the court, quickly. Taesan tracking his movements, the focus on his face unmistakable. Leehan steps into his line of vision, his body pausing to stand upright. Leehan’s eyes flick to the crowd just before the whistle blows, eyes instantly landing on Taesan. Distracted, the ball lands next to him on the court, earning the opposite team an easy point.

The team unravels for a second, clearly upset by the slip-up. Taesan breaks eye contact, looking anywhere but at Leehan. moving to look around the court to finally register what’s happened.

“Focus”, Dohoon says, moving to tap encouragingly on his shoulder, but Leehan pulls his shoulder out of his grip. Dohoon furrows his eyebrows slightly at the brush-off, finding the action weird.

The ball flies in Leehan’s direction, and moving forward to hit it, it bounces off his arm and lands straight into the net, scoring the other team a point. The team deflates again, Leehan running his fingers through his hair, looking dishevelled.

The match continues, their school earning 2 more points while the other scored 1. Dohoon runs in front to lightly tap the ball away from the enemy team's blockers, Leehan staring daggers into his back at the match plays. Dohoon moves back, but Leehan doesn’t react in time, causing the two to collide, Dohoon falling to the ground.

Dohoon slowly stands up, rubbing his knee that roughly hit the ground. “It’s okay, I’m fine,” Dohoon says, fully rising up. Leehan’s not focused at all, and before Taesan can even question why, his eyes are on him again.

Dohoon watches Leehan, following his line of sight to Taesan. Taesan’s eyes, however, are firmly locked onto Dohoon as he looks at him concerningly. Dohoon’s facial expression stiffens, something starting to piss him off. Dohoon gestures a T with his hands at the referee, granting him a time-out before he pulls Leehan aside.

Standing off to the side, he examines Leehan’s demeanour. “What’s happening? Why are you not focused?”

Leehan doesn’t make eye contact, taking the bottom of his jersey to wipe his face. “It’s nothing.”

Dohoon looks intensely at him, eyes scanning all over for an explanation. “It doesn’t look like nothing.”

“Mind your own business.” Leehan spits out, looking directly into Dohoon’s eyes. Dohoon’s taken aback – his eyebrows furrowing deeply, this type of attitude new to Dohoon. Dohoon wishes he was clueless as to why Leehan could be acting this way, but now he has an idea. Leehan’s eyes twitch, the anger building in his face apparent and enough for Dohoon to get the message. “Sit this one out.”

“What?” Leehan fires back strongly, almost offended. “You heard me,” Dohoon says as he walks away, leaving Leehan standing on his own.

Leehan moves to the benches, sitting down with a hard plop. He swings his water bottle into his mouth, tossing his head back before slouchily watching the game from the sidelines. Dohoon gestures at Jake to join them on court, the game resuming as if nothing happened.

Taesan feels weird. Watching the two interact felt so strange. Something unnerving about watching his ex-situationship and his new one interacting. Especially with the newfound tension from the game becoming unsteady. The air is a bit too thick, the stares a bit too tense and everything a bit too loud. Even watching the game took effort out of him since his eyes kept wanting to drift to Leehan sitting in front of their section.

Neck and neck, the teams move swiftly, trying to gain the upper hand against each other. The ball flying across the court back and forth, threatening to fall and favour a team. With a swift jump up, Dohoon sets the ball for Seunghan. Hanging in the air, almost freezing, he hits hard on the ball, landing another strong spike. The whistle blows, calling the game and announcing their victory.

The crowd erupts, everyone jumping up to cheer for the team. Loud cheers dance around the team as they celebrate. The team jumping up and down, hugging each other and tackling Seunghan and Dohoon.

Dohoon manages to break free, jogging up to Taesan and wrapping his arm around his shoulders to hug him. Taesan’s head slots perfectly onto Dohoon’s shoulder as he accepts the embrace. He glances over his shoulder and catches the eyes of Shinyu in the crowd. Watching them.

Why’s everyone on their case today? First Leehan and now Shinyu? Taesan snaps out of his thought as he feels Dohoon’s body pull away from his.

“You did so well,” Taesan comments, looking at Dohoon.

“I had to,” Dohoon starts, peeling his arms off of Taesan before bringing his hand to Taesan’s chin. “I had someone to impress.”

Taesan pushes his hand off his chin, letting out a small chuckle at the flirt. Dohoon holds onto his arm. Dohoon smiles softly at Taesan before he pulls them out of the gymnasium.

Two sets of eyes definitely watching them as they leave.

-°⛧

Emerging with two cones in his hand, Dohoon hands the smaller to Taesan before sitting next to him.

Sat outside on a bench in front of an ice cream parlour, they settle into the comfortable silence of the night. Dohoon’s giant double scoop is being quickly devoured. Taesan licks at his ice cream, indulging in Dohoon’s sweet tooth tendencies, the sweetness hinting on his taste buds.

“You know – for a vampire, you eat a lot of human food,” Taesan comments, not completely understanding the appeal of indulging in the sweet treats as much as Dohoon does.

“It makes me feel a little normal,” Dohoon states, taking a massive lick around the ice cream. Taesan’s eyes tracking his tongue as it carves into the treat.

“Wanna try mine?” Dohoon asks, moving his cone Taesan’s way, catching Taesan in the middle of his gaze. Taesan moves forward timidly, sticking his tongue out to lick against the side. Dohoon's eyes track the movements, Taesan holding eye contact as he moves further up the tower. Flicking his tongue into his mouth, the flavours melting onto his tongue.

Taesan wasn’t oblivious; he knew how he looked doing that, and seeing Dohoon flustered was his daily mission. Pulling away, he smirks as Dohoon's ears get redder. Dohoon reaches over, pulling his thumb over the corner of Taesan’s mouth. Taesan’s eyes are blown out, his body pausing all functionality as he sees Dohoon bring the thumb into his mouth.

Fuck, okay.

Dohoon smirks, returning a playful expression. “You’re so cruel,” Taesan states, glaring at Dohoon before returning to his ice cream. Dohoon giggles, pride filling his chest after making Taesan flustered.

They continue to talk as they finish their treat, moving to walk to the dorms shortly after before it gets too late

Unlocking the door, Taesan walks in, turning around to greet Dohoon. “Thank you for the date,” Dohoon says, standing in front of the threshold of Taesan’s apartment.

“Shouldn’t I be thanking you for treating me?” Taesan cocks his head, an eyebrow coming slightly upward.

”Nope,” he responds, a sweet smile dusting his face.

A silence falls between them, Taesan smiling as he looks at Dohoon. “Goodnight, hoon.”

“Goodnight, T,” Dohoon says as he slowly turns around to walk away.

Taesan pulls the doorknob down, moving to pull it closed. Before the door can click, he feels a force push it open again. Dohoon's hand spread across the wood, his face completely red.

Taesan looks at him concerned, opening his mouth to talk, “Did you forget something—“

“Can I kiss you?” Dohoon blurts out, his face littered with anxiety and nervousness. Taesan’s eyes widen at the question, his mind frying for the second time tonight. Taesan stands with his mouth open, still shell-shocked at the suddenness of it all. Dohoon drops his hand from the door, his eyes moving to run along the patterns on the wooden floor. “Sorry, it’s okay if you—“

Taesan hooks his hand onto the back of Dohoon's head, planting his lips against Dohoon's. Dohoon's body stiffens for a moment before relaxing slowly into the kiss, his hands coming up to cup the sides of Taesan’s face. The kiss is soft and warm, causing Taesan to melt. Dohoon moves his lips softly against his, the kiss as innocent and sweet as him.

Breaking apart, he drops his hands from Taesan’s face; his eyes softly blink open, dancing between Taesan’s. Licking over his bottom lip before taking it into his mouth, he catches as Taesan’s eyes track his tongue. He stares apprehensively at Taesan, both breathing heavily. Their eyes have a silent conversation, none making an attempt to move yet.

Taesan pushes forward, smashing his lips into Dohoon's, the latter hungrily accepting. Taesan hooks his fingers into the hoops on Dohoon's jeans, pulling him into the apartment, the door closing behind them.

Pressed up against the wall, Dohoon kisses him vigorously, hands resting on his hips and pulling Taesan in closer.

Taesan breaks the kiss, pushing Dohoon against the wall closest to the door, Dohoon moaning at the loss of his lips. Taesan trails his lips down Dohoon's neck, kissing and gnawing at the skin. Dragging his nose against his neck, he inhales his sweet scent, the imaginary taste already present in his brain.

Taesan’s hands travel up Dohoon's stomach, his abs creating bumps as he claws his hands back downwards. Sinking onto his knees, his fingers rest above the waistband of his jeans. Dohoon shudders at the sight, breathing heavily and watching him so carefully.

Dohoon's hand goes to hold Taesan's face. “Are you sure? You don’t have to.” There’s a red flush across his face as he holds Taesan’s face to look up at him. Taesan opens his mouth, moving to take the same thumb dohoon sucked on earlier into his mouth. Dohoon closes his eyes tight, his imagination taking control as Taesan sucks in his thumb.

“Okay,” Dohoon closes his eyes letting a  breath out, attempting to ground himself. Before he can calm down he feels a swift movement. Opening his eyes he looks down to see Taesan, who has his dick resting on his tongue as he stares up.

Dohoon's dick twitches on Taesan's tongue, the sight driving him insane. “Fuck,” Dohoon curses; the thought of this innocent man being corrupted by him sends a chill downward. Kitten licking the tip, he takes a daring lick on the bottom side of his shaft, pressing his tongue into the skin. Dohoon's big, not the biggest he’s ever had but still a notable size.

Diving down to the base of Dohoon's dick, Taesan chokes. Dohoon lets out a pained moan, his eyes squeezing together. His hand going to grip onto Taesan’s hair as he rocks his hips into his mouth. Lost in the feeling of Taesan’s warm and wet mouth.

Pausing, he lets out a heavy breath, trying his best to hold his composure. Taesan sucks, hollowing his cheeks, causing Dohoon to jerk into Taesan’s mouth, the length hitting the back of his throat. Taesan moans at the feeling. “Sorry,” Dohoon whispers out, loosening his grip and continuing his slower pace. Taesan sucks harder; a hiss escapes the man above him, the message sent and received. Dohoon rocks his hips faster into Taesan’s mouth, throwing his head back as he focuses on the feeling.

Looking down, Taesan stares up at him through his eyelashes. A light blush running across Taesan’s face makes him look like a dream, and Dohoon is not able to hold himself back anymore. The sight has Dohoon bucking harshly into Taesan’s mouth, releasing a deep-rooted growl as he cums down Taesan’s throat.

Breathing heavily, he leans against the wall, trying to catch his breath. Hearing Taesan shift below him brings him back to reality. Dohoon helps him up, eyes travelling down to the tent formed in Taesan’s pants. Snapping his eyes up to make eye contact, he starts, “I’ve never given head before—“

Taesan lets out a breathy laugh; of course, his first thought is to ‘repay’ him. Taesan grabs his arm, pulling him onto the couch before pushing him down and climbing on top. “I won’t make you do anything you don’t want to,” Taesan says, driving down to kiss Dohoon.

Dohoon's mouth falls open, allowing Taesan’s tongue to explore. Dohoon's hand moves to rub over his bulge, unbuttoning his pants and slipping his hand under his waistband. Taesan moans at the contact, grinding his hips into Dohoon's hand. Dohoon's hand starts slowly stroking him, pulling him out fully to have a better angle.

Taesan feels the pooling at the bottom of his stomach become more intense, his body aching for more. He drops his head into Dohoon's shoulder, the scent of his blood not helping his situation. Dohoon's hand starts moving treacherously fast, Taesan’s climax creeping up on him. Taesan can’t hold it in, his fangs extending against his neck. The sharp teeth threaten against Dohoon's skin, so close yet so far. Dohoon tilts his head to the side, granting Taesan the permission he’s silently been waiting for. Blood pools into his mouth, the savoury and sweet taste addictive. It’s different from what he’s had before but still good. Dohoon moans into his ear, the sound, taste and feeling tipping Taesan over the edge.

A high-pitched whine escapes Taesan’s mouth, Taesan’s body buzzing as he reaches his high. Taesan’s body hunches over, lying against Dohoon’s chest as he comes down from his high. Licking over the wound, he breathes heavily. Eyes open to stare into Dohoon's, who looks completely spent.

“I got carried away; I’m sorry.” Taesan whispers, voice raspy and raw.

Dohoon rubs the hair out of Taesan’s face, pulling him in for a kiss. The soft kiss contrasted with everything they just did together. Licking over Taesan’s lips, he tastes his own blood that’s settled into the corners of Taesan’s lips. The two are quietly calming down.

-°⛧

Abruptly he stops himself from walking home; a figure catches his full attention. The smile and blush on his face, irritably present. Stepping closer, he spots the two fresh wounds on his neck that he’s wearing proudly and openly. Putting two and two together, a wave of anger travels through his system.

“I know you’re just using him,” Leehan spits out, saying it loud enough for the man in front of him to hear.

Dohoon stops his pursuit, turning around to stare into Leehan’s face. The minute he recognises him, his stare turns dagger like, becoming even more intense. “What?” Dohoon responds, his face stern.

“I know that you’re just using him to get back at Shinyu.” Leehan starts, voice becoming more accusative. Taking a step forward intimidatingly “I saw how you looked at him.”

“You don’t know anything.” Dohoon hisses back, clearly pissed off.

“Oh, please.” Leehan lets out a humourless laugh, looking around before locking eyes again with Dohoon. “ You’re still fucking hung up on your ex, and you’re just using Taesan to get over him.”

“And you with Heeseung? You want to talk about distractions?” Dohoon bites. Leehan was taken aback slightly by the sudden call-out. Leehan lifts his eyebrow, poking his tongue into his cheek.

“ That’s got nothing to do with this “, Leehan says roughly, his voice harsh and face scrunched up in anger.

Dohoon takes a step forward, looking down at Leehan. “I don’t know what happened with you and Taesan, and I don’t care.” Dohoon states firmly. Leehan looks up at him, his expression unchanged. “ I like him – so do whatever you want, but he’s happy with me.” Dohoon leans downward, pausing as his face comes close to Leehan. “Was he even happy with you?” Dohoon asks rhetorically, not caring for an answer, more so wanting to strike a nerve.

Leehan’s heart aches. His hard expression falters as the last lines from Dohoon puncture him. Hearing that Taesan is happy and knowing that it has nothing to do with him hurts more than he thought. He’s probably better without him.

He hates it.

The guilt eats at Leehan every day, his brain constantly reminding him of how much of a shitty person he is. Taesan’s pained expression from when they last spoke is cemented into his memory, replaying over and over in his head. It makes him feel worse and worse as the days pass. Yet somehow hearing that Taesan is happy without him twists the knife deeper into his chest.

Despite all this, he can’t stay away from him. The pull is too strong for him to be able to ignore, an unexplainable connection tying him to Taesan. He can’t help it; as much as he wants to leave Taesan alone, his body won’t let him.

By the time Leehan snaps out of his trance, he looks up, and Dohoon's gone.

-°⛧

“Are you and Shinyu a thing?” Taesan asks apprehensively.

The trio is sat at Jaehyun's apartment – surprisingly. The two on the floor are chowing away while they watch Jaehyun's show and Taesan taking full advantage of the empty couch.

“What? No, he’s in love with his ex,” Jaehyun states, twisting his fork and stuffing an absurd amount of noodles into his mouth.

Taesan’s breathing stops, chest getting pins and needles. “His ex?”

“Yeah, he won’t shut up about him. They haven’t been together for 2 years, and he’s still not over it.” Jaehyun talks with his mouth full of noodles, pausing to swallow it all down. “He said that he just broke up with him out of the blue and completely avoided and ghosted him after that.”

“Typical Korean man, apparently,” Sungho comments from the other side of the coffee table, scrolling on his phone as he eats.

Taesan can’t help but feel for Shinyu. How tough it is seeing someone who just left you behind move on. No matter how long it’s been, that sting doesn’t go away. Being left behind without an explanation hurt more than if you were given the reason. He knows that feeling too well. He guesses he and Shinyu are similar in that way.

“Dohoon’s his ex,” Taesan bluntly announces.

Jaehyun and Sungho pause, both of them staring as if Taesan just grew another head. “Are you serious? Your Dohoon?”

“What other Dohoons do we know?” Sungho shoots, an irritated expression briefly flashing on his face at Jaehyun.

“He broke up with him because he turned fully into a vampire. I’m not sure exactly what that means, but it sounded serious.” Taesan utters; the two listen attentively as he speaks.

“And he couldn’t have just told Shinyu that?” Sungho questions, tilting his head as he puzzled things together.

“Shinyu didn’t know how he was a vampire.“ Taesan replies honestly, the two harmonising an ‘ahhh’ as they nod their heads, understanding a bit better. “Still doesn’t,” Taesan adds.

“Shit, that’s intense,” Jaehyun admits. Taesan and Sungho nod in agreement. A best of silence goes by as the boys think about all the information that had just been shared.

“How are you and Dohoon, though?” Sungho asks curiously. His eyes sharp and detailed, paying his movements close attention.

“We’re good.” Taesan calmly proclaims, a barely there smile making itself apparent. “he’s really fucking nice to me”

“ I thought so; the hickeys gave it away,” Sungho publishes, a smug smile taking over his face.

Jaehyun, confused, latches onto Taesan, pulling at his shirt. Revealing a small litter of love bites blooming over Taesan’s neck.

Jaehyun gasps as he lets go, Taesan serving him a shocked look. “Stop that!”

Sungho's smile falters, returning to something more serious. “But that’s good – you deserve someone who’s nice to you.”

Taesan nods at that. Dohoon is really nice to him; he can’t lie about that. Ever since their first date, he’s been extra affectionate, basically showing Taesan off to everyone. He’s so different from Leehan, yet he enjoyed the time they had together. How overly passionate and charming Leehan was, how natural everything felt and how he so easily made Taesan’s heart rate increase. It felt like they were linked in a way, like something kept pulling them together.

But that’s done now.

“I know that face; stop thinking of Leehan,“ Sungho commands from across the room, throwing him and Jaehyun’s takeaway containers out.

“Literally how?” Taesan flops deeper into the couch; he can never catch a break with these two. Maybe Jaehyun, but never Sungho.

“I've studied that brain for years; I know how you think,” Sungho remarks, a proud smirk spreading across his face.

“Whatever, I don’t want to talk about him.”

-°⛧

Taesan's stomach growls angrily at him, the hollowness rudely awakening him in the middle of the night. Opening his fridge, he’s met with nothing but Jaehyun and Sungho’s half-eaten meals that they keep leaving behind. Sighing, he pulls himself off the fridge; how he already drank his week's supply in 5 days, he’ll never know.

Lazily slipping on sweatpants and a track jacket. Walking outside, he’s greeted with the cool breeze of the night, streets empty as he walks to the store he and Dohoon frequent. Stocking up on various blood types he’s grown a liking to, he fills his basket, stomach aching at the sight. After paying and exiting the store, he takes a bag out, puncturing holes in it with his fangs, sipping on it like a juice box.

Walking away from the store, his focus on getting home was abruptly disrupted. A muffled moan is drawn from a dark alleyway parallel to him. Taesan’s brain automatically assumes it’s just two people having sex or something, but it was far worse than that.

Then his heart drops. Stopping dead in his tracks, he turns his head and spots Leehan getting fed off of by a Heeseung. An involuntary gasp escapes his mouth, Leehan’s red eyes snapping to Taesan’s over Heeseung’s shoulder. Frozen Taesan watches the two, Heeseung moaning as he drinks from Leehan.

The sound snaps him out of it; he’s not supposed to be there. Taesan books it, speed-walking away as fast as he can. An overwhelming wave hits him, intense and painful in a way. His breathing becomes unstable, and he can feel tears prickling their way to his eyes. He doesn’t even know why he ran or even why he feels so much right now; it’s not like they even dated. Yet it hurts so much.

Taesan reaches into his pocket for his phone, shakily selecting a contact and raising the phone to his ear. Sniffling as he waits, hearing the phone ring multiple times.

“Hello?” Dohoon answers, voice raspy, clearly just having woken up from his sleep.

“Can you come over? Please?” Taesan sniffles, not able to control his emotions before they take over.

“What’s wrong? Did something happen?” Dohoon’s voice is laced with concern, the worry waking him up. Taesan can hear things moving in the background, Dohoon rustling things around.

“No – I just – I don’t know.” Taesan stutters, tears finally breaking onto his cheek.

“Okay, I’m on my way.”

Chapter Text

“What happened? Are you okay?”

Dohoon rushes as soon as the door opens, cupping both sides of Taesan’s face with his hands, turning his face in different directions as he checks on him.

“I’m fine.” Taesan lies, his eyes still red from crying not too long ago. Dohoon’s eyes jump across his face, the worry he’s wearing so apparent.

Dohoon and Taesan sit on his couch, Taesan curling up into Dohoon's chest as he strokes his hair. The soft and comforting action soothes Taesan to sleep.

He’s grateful that Dohoon didn’t push him to talk; he didn’t want to address what was happening in his head. The image of last night was too freshly burnt into his memory, surely to haunt him in the depths of the night.

Drifting off to sleep, he feels Dohoon's hand stop moving, falling to rest around his shoulder. Taesan tries to move, but Dohoon

Subconsciously pulls him closer as he sleeps. Giving in, he snuggles himself into Dohoon's chest as he joining him .

A knock on the door abruptly wakes them up, Taesan groaning and complaining as Dohoon gets up to answer the door. Dohoon’s hair is standing up in every direction; Taesan is sure he doesn’t look any better, but they’re both too tired to care about appearances.

“Where’s Taesan?”

He hears a familiar voice echo from the doorway, ricocheting down the hallway. Heavy footsteps pad his way; looking up, he sees Leehan, in the same outfit as last night.

A sinking feeling settles in his chest, a sense of unease and worry seeping into his skin. His eyes threaten to dry with how long it feels like he’s staring up at the man, anticipating what Leehan has to say.

“So what?” Leehan starts, his face twitching as he formulates his sentences. “Do you just move on to the next vampire you can find?” His voice is poisonous, words purposely chosen to cut Taesan deep.

Taesan’s eyes are brought down, forming a V as that sense of dread dissolves into something harsh. This is the first time they’ve spoken in months, and that’s what he has to say?

“What the fuck is your problem?” Taesan asks, exhaustion washing over him. Standing up, his eyes focus on Dohoon, who’s standing irritatedly behind Leehan, before returning his focus to Leehan.

Leehan’s expression worsens, the tension in the room becoming thicker. “You, you’re my problem.“

“What did I do, huh?” Taesan half shouts, his eyes opening wider as he speaks, tired and annoyed that Leehan can even blame him. “Tell me what I did.”

Taesan glares at Leehan, his expression unforgiving. Looking at Leehan up close like this, he sees him properly. The tiredness present on his face. His eye bags are deep and heavy. He also looks a lot skinnier than Taesan remembers, his cheekbones and jawline more prominent, whilst his cheeks have started to hollow slightly.

“I can’t get a break. You’re fucking everywhere.” Leehan blurts out, eyes darting all across Taesan’s face, frustration and tiredness combining as he speaks. “ – and showing off my replacement”

Taesan’s eyebrows shoot up, stunned by the audacity. Offended even. Letting out a tight-winded huff, he starts, “Your replacement? Like you didn’t have someone the first week back?”

Leehan’s expression falters for a second before hardening once more. “ It’s not like that. “

Taesan feels himself beginning to boil inside, his blood becoming hotter the more Leehan spoke. “Then what is it? Because it didn’t fucking look like that last night.”

Leehan opens his mouth to speak, but the words don’t arrive. Poking his tongue in his cheek, he examines Taesan carefully.

“Why are you here?” Taesan asks; at this point, his soul is staring into Leehan, glare that intense.

Leehan stays silent, swallowing as if he’s run out of words. Tearing his eyes off Taesan, he scans around the room, taking everything in before his eyes land on him again.

“ I’m sick of this,” Leehan admits, his eyes red and frustrated. He turns around, pushing his way through the door. Dohoon serves him a murderous scowl as he passes by, this look so unfamiliar to Taesan.

-°⛧

Standing outside their last class, the group listens attentively as Taesan speaks. Jaehyun and Sungho were engulfed in the conversation, a shared focus on their faces.

Dohoon swoops in, hooking his arm into Taesan’s. Greeting his friends as he pulls Taesan away, Jaehyun and Sungho protest as he cuts their conversation short.

“What are you doing?” Taesan asks, struggling to keep his bag on his back. Helping him, Dohoon pulls the strap of the bag, sliding it off of Taesan’s shoulder and onto his, “ walking you home“.

Taesan squints his eyes at him; unsure of what to make of it, he just shakes his head.

brushing off his weird behaviour.

The past two weeks Dohoon has been extraordinarily sweet to him, visiting him late in the night, surprising him at school with sweet treats – which he ends up eating anyways – and just showing him off around campus like he and Taesan are together – which they aren’t. Officially. He doesn’t completely mind though, but he does question the theatrics of it all.

The feeling of someone watching him has become numbing, the two sets always finding their way to stare holes in the back of his head.

Searching the court, he greets the familiar faces, not quite finding the one he’s looking for. Walking into the changing room, he scans over the area, only finding half-opened bags laid out on the benches against the wall.

“Your lover boy isn’t here,” Leehan says from behind him, using the towel around his neck to pad some sweat away.

They awkwardly stare at each other, Taesan’s razor-sharp eyes piercing into Leehan’s. “Neither is yours.”

“He’s not – whatever,” Leehan quickly responds, becoming pissed off in an instant. Sighing deeply, Leehan walks out of the changing room, stepping hard against the floor.

Taesan lets out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. Shaking his head, he moves to walk out of the changing room; rounding the corner, he almost walks flat into someone.

Looking up, he sees Dohoon, wearing a stern, hardened expression. “Did something happen?”

Taesan shakes his head, lacing his fingers with Dohoon’s. “Just Leehan being stupid,” Taesan shrugs, “what’s new?”

Dohoon nods, understanding what he means. “Let’s go home?” Dohoon asks sweetly, keeping his hand resting around Taesan’s waist the entire time on the walk home.

-°⛧

Waking up in his apartment, he struggles to catch his breath. Memories rushing back to him, a gust of everything that’s happened attacking his brain all at once. The good and bad are taking complete control over his psyche.

Looking next to him Dohoon stirs in his sleep, pulling himself up as he hears Taesan moving in the bed. His breathing is short and disrupted, Dohoon making quick to comfort him.

“It’s just a bad dream; it’s okay.” Dohoon comforts him, stroking his hair, pulling Taesan closer to him.

“It’s the same fucking bad dream every night,” Taesan says into his hands, rubbing his face roughly.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Dohoon asks concerningly, his eyes laced with worry.

Taesan pauses to look up at Dohoon, unsure. Dohoon gives him a reassuring soft smile, his eyes gently watching Taesan.

“It’s about Leehan…”

Dohoon stiffens a bit, his eyes travelling down as he thinks. “Is it okay if I ask you something?”

Taesan looks up at him before nodding. The question itself made him a little nervous.

“Did he turn you?” Taesan's throat dries up, a mix of emotions stopping words from coming out. Looking at Dohoon, his eyes patiently wait for an answer.

“Yeah, it was him.”

Dohoon nods softly, eyes drifting to the sheets in front of them. Feeling a bit awkward, Dohoon pulls Taesan even closer, comforting him as he gets lost deeper into his thoughts.

-°⛧

Students clatter, gathering their things and leaving the class. Leehan’s barely in classes these days, only coming for volleyball practice and leaving right after. Leehan sits in the lecture room, quietly watching out of the window. Friend groups meeting up and happily greeting each other. This longing feeling inside Leehan pulls at his heart, aching. A hand slams on his desk, snapping him out of his thoughts.

Trailing his eyes up, he locks them onto Dohoon, who’s staring down at him with a deep-rooted irritation embedded on his face.

“You better leave Taesan alone.”

“And if I don’t want to?” Leehan says back calmly. Dohoon looks at him baffled, not understanding what Leehan’s issue is.

Dohoon laughs, looking away for a second. His eyebrows knit together, his scowl severe. “You ruined his life when you turned him into a vampire; you know that?”

Striking a nerve, Leehan’s eye twitched, “Did he tell you that?

“He didn’t need to.”

Leehan looks away, starting to get pissed off. He snaps his eyes back at Dohoon. “ You pretend like you know everything; it’s so fucking annoying.“ Leehan fires back, words burning his tongue.

“Say that again.” Dohoon’s voice becomes harsher, his irritation more apparent.

“You’re fucking annoying.” Leehan stands up, pushing himself out of his seat.

Dohoon scoffs, his mind running as he examines Leehan. “What do you even want with him?”

“ None of your business.“

“ It is my fucking business,“ Dohoon half-yells, his limits being pushed. Dohoon steps forward, getting up in his face.

“You’re so frustrating.” Dohoon snaps, pushing the chair next to Leehan down onto the floor. He puts his hands on his head, as he slightly passes the area around them. Facing Leehan again, there’s an exhausted expression clouding his face. “Why do you have to be the one that turned him? Why do you have to be the one bonded to him?”

Leehan stands, staring back at Dohoon. Unmoved. He stares holes into Dohoon’s eyes, pent-up anger threatening to explode at any moment. His mind conjuring different insults and jabs that he could throw at him. But he says nothing.

“Just leave him the fuck alone,” Dohoon hisses, before turning his back to leave.

Dohoon stops in his tracks, his body tensing as he stares in front of him. Leehan looks in the doorway, witnessing Shinyu's doe-eyed and scared face, watching Dohoon carefully.

Shinyu’s teary, fearful eyes stare up at Dohoon, his body moving as soon as Dohoon takes a step forward. Scrambling away, he makes it clear he’s heard enough of their conversation. Dohoon’s body sighs, shoulders falling downward. He spares Leehan one more glance before walking out of the room, moving after Shinyu.

Leehan’s left with silence in the room, nothing filling it but his thoughts. He feels like a truck just hit him, an overwhelming wave taking him out. The hollowness in his chest returning as soon as his body stills.

His phone buzzes, vibrations spreading from his back pocket. A message from the screen lighting up his face.

Heeseung

[ 14:32 ]
Where are you now?

Leehan

[ 14:33 ]
I’m leaving class. On the way.

Leehan pockets his phone, gathering his things and walking to Heeseung's apartment. His apartment wasn’t on the campus but a little further away, in one of those flashy high-class complexes, the type that had a reception check your ID before you could enter.

There he found himself, sitting on the far end of Heeseung's couch, the owner sitting flush against his side. The room smells of smoke and liquor, the mixture spoiling any appetite he had.

“You’re so harsh with me,” Heeseung says, his voice bittersweet. “It wouldn’t kill you to be nice.”

“It really would.”

Heeseung stares into the side of his face, his expression faltering. “You don’t want me to talk to the council, do you? I bet they’d love to know what you’ve been up to“

Leehan feels as if his day has gone from bad to worse; after everything that’s happened lately, he still has to deal with Heeseung.

“No.”

Heeseung smiles smugly, wrapping an arm around Leehan’s shoulder. “Don’t be so sulky; I’m only teasing you.“

Leehan knows he’s lying. It’s the same way he even brought him into this situation.

He thought he’d be able to move on, for Taesan’s sake at least, but every time he sees him and Dohoon together, his heart breaks. Taesan’s smile, the one that made his heart skip, his breath stop and his brain buzz, now only brings him pain. Knowing he’s not the reason behind it. Knowing that he’ll probably never be the reason behind it again.

But there’s nothing he can do about it.

Walking sluggishly out from Heeseung's apartment, he drags his feet to the elevator. The elevator doors open, the emptiness welcoming him inside. The short ride ends, the doors granting him access to the outside world once again.

“Leehan? What are you doing here?”

Ricky’s voice catches his ears; the familiar voice became so foreign. Ricky’s eyes scan over him, intertwined with worry.

“Are you okay?”

And that's all it takes.

Leehan’s hard shell he’s spent the past months building ruptures. His vulnerability shining through the cracks. His ears water faster than he can register, tears dripping down his face.

“I'm okay—“, Leehan starts, wiping his tears away with his sleeve.

“Don’t lie to me; you know I can tell.” Ricky reaches his hand forward, stopping the elevator doors from closing. Slipping inside, he presses the button to his floor, guiding Leehan into his apartment as soon as the doors open.

-°⛧

Leehan feels spent.

His eyes and face were puffy from crying so much into one of Ricky’s many pillows.

Gyuvin and Ricky sit patiently next to him on the couch, listening attentively as he talks. Gyuvin’s eye dancing between Leehans and Ricky every two seconds.

“ He has a video of me and Taesan at the club, the day I turned him…” Ricky’s eyes hang onto Leehan, the implications well understood.

“Ever since he showed me that, he made me stick next to him.” Leehan pauses, dry swallowing before continuing. “He said if I didn’t leave Taesan for him, he’d show it to the council.”

Leehan’s face contorts, a pained expression pinning on his face. The memories of that date after volleyball practice cemented into his brain. A simple video causing his world to come crashing down, a black pit in his stomach swallowing everything.

“What would happen if they found out?” Gyuvin asks; his eyes have softened a lot since Leehan started explaining himself.

Both he and Ricky glance up at Gyuvin, sad eyes heavily staring into his soul.

“They’d kill Taesan,” Ricky states bluntly.

A silence falls between them. The mass understanding finally being shared, the intensity of the situation clear. Leehan’s head bows one more time, the waterworks threatening to start again.

Chucking his head back up, he opens his mouth to talk. “Heeseung made a good point, though. I ruined Taesan’s life. Everything I touched I tainted. The way he looks at me says it all. And now he might be killed because of me.” Leehan chuckles in disbelief, exhaustion slowly taking over his body. “ But no matter what I do, I can’t stay away from him. It’s like gravity or something is constantly pulling me towards him.”

Ricky reaches his hand to Leehan’s back, softly comforting him as he speaks. The friction creating a warmth, the slight temperature change grounding him.

Looking at Ricky, his pleading eyes retain their wet, glossy appearance, the unshed tears dwindling on the threshold. “I don’t know what to do… I feel so stuck.”

Ricky moves further forward, hugging Leehan tightly. Gyuvin moving to pat his hand on Leehan’s back. Leehan crumbles, body shaking as he cries into Ricky’s shoulder. The older nodding and thinking deeply as he holds him.

“Don’t worry about it,” Ricky whispers, his brain working overtime to come up with a solution. Looking into Gyuvin's eyes, he gives him a stern look, nodding as they agree on a silent decision.

“I’ll make sure Heeseung can’t hurt you anymore.”

As he calms down, Leehan peels himself off of Ricky, Gyuvin moving fast to give him tissues.

Ricky grabs his phone off the coffee table, scrolling through his contacts before coming to a stop. Raising the phone up to his ear, he waits as the ringing persists.

His anticipation relieved as he hears the desired voice greet him.

“Can you do me a favour?” Ricky bites his tongue as he waits, almost as if he’s coming up with a plan and he’s analysing his options.

“Anything for you, gorgeous.”

Chapter Text

“We’re all on the same page, right?” Ricky asks, eyes glancing to the two in front, holding strong eye contact.

“ I’ll always listen to what you have to say, gorgeous.” Jaehyun says, winking, his lips holding a smug smirk.

“Hey! He’s still my boyfriend,“ Gyuvin fights back, slapping Jaehyun on the shoulder. Jaehyun’s hand coming up to rub over the skin.

Strolling into the gymnasium, Jaehyun scans over the players busy with practice, his eyes searching. Locking onto his target, he moves to sit strategically on the bench. His eyes stay fixated on Heeseung, watching him and only him.

Feeling the weight of the stare, Heeseung glances over at him. Jaehyun lifts his hand, waving at him. Heeseung cocks his head, eyes looking around to confirm Jaehyun is staring at him. His stare lingers long enough for Jaehyun to know his efforts aren’t in vain.

It doesn’t take long for the team to have a water break, members dispersing to different ends of the court. Heeseung makes his way towards Jaehyun, jogging up and stopping in front of him. Smiling slightly down at Jaehyun, he reaches forward grabbing the towel next to him and uses it to wipe his forehead.

“I don’t think I’ve seen you around,” Heeseung comments, a slight tug in the corner of his lips.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a hotter volleyball player,” Jaehyun says seductively, words spoken with a confidence that takes Heeseung aback.

The corners of Heeseung’s lips tug upward, a smirk making an appearance. Clearly loving the attention, Heeseung scoffs, “Yeah?” His eyes move to travel down Jaehyun's body, hungrily taking the sight in.

Pushing himself off of the bench, he stands directly in front of Heeseung. Jaehyun runs a finger under the thin chain around Heeseung's neck, hooking and pulling the chain to its limits. Returning Heeseung’s gaze, he stares back with half-lidded eyes.

“Mhm, I wonder how much hotter you’d look in my bed.” Heeseung nearly chokes on air, his breath caught. Smirking wide, his brain swims in lust at the insinuation.

“What’s your name, pretty?”

“Jaehyun”

“Why are you here, Jaehyun? ” Heeseung asks, dragging out his name.

Jaehyun tugs the chain, Heeseung's face incredibly close. Jaehyun flickers his eyes at his, pulling his face over his shoulder, whispering into his ear. “To put my number in that phone of yours.”

Heeseung chokes out a chuckle, swiftly pulling his phone out of his pocket. Typing his password on the screen, Jaehyun's eyes track the movements, creating a mental note of the pattern. Jaehyun stares blankly at the number pad on Heeseung's phone. Taking the phone from him, he puts in a fake number.

Pocketing the phone, he smirks at Jaehyun, “I’ll call you.”

“I’ll be waiting.” Jaehyun responds with a wink before turning around to walk out, a slight sway in his hips, completely committed to his part.

Before making his exit, he nods at Gyuvin. Gyuvin catching what Jaehyun's throwing; the ball is now in his court. Checking his phone, he sees Jaehyun's message, Heeseung's passcode cementing itself to his memory. Gyuvin grabs the towels from the benches, taking them all to the changing room and tossing them into the hamper.

Gyuvin hears a clatter of footsteps walk after him; expectantly, the players slip into the changing room to grab fresh towels, some messing with their bags. Gyuvin’s eyes are on Heeseung, watching as he slips his phone into his bag.

The coach calls them back, practice resuming once more. Gyuvin steps back onto the court, taking a deep breath before moving his foot into an awkward position and pressing it hard against the ground. With a loud yelp, he reaches down to hold his ankle, the pain sudden but all he could think of in his limited time.

The coach walks over, checking him and sending him to the bench. Sitting down, he waits for an opening, and when everyone’s attention is back to the game, he moves.

Sneaking into the changing room, he scans until he spots Heeseung's bag. He unzips it, grabbing the phone and unlocking it. He searches through his gallery for the video, scrunching his face as he sees multiple questionable images. Stumbling across a few videos in January, he finally finds the one he’s been searching for. Gyuvin clicks and drags all the videos from that night, deleting them. He searches through Heeseung's chats to see if he sent it to anyone but luckily comes up dry.

He starts to panic when he hears the squeaks of sneakers approaching him, fingers quickly clicking between apps. Frantically he goes into the settings, scrolling right to the bottom and completely resetting the phone. Erasing all content, returning it back to its factory settings.

He chucks the phone in the bag, zipping it up. Returning to his own bag, he pulls it onto his shoulder before walking slowly out of the room, passing by the other players.

Mission complete.

-°⛧

Dohoon doesn’t tell Taesan about him and Leehan's interaction in class nor the previous one outside his apartment. Sitting in Taesan’s apartment, Dohoon sits zoned out, his thoughts running wild in his head.

“Do you want to go to a party with me?” Dohoon blurts out suddenly. The question catches Taesan off guard, almost whiplashing his head to face him.

“A party? Who are you?” Taesan jokes, poking Dohoon’s side.

Dohoon laughs slightly, his body scooting away from Taesan’s treacherous finger. “I just think we need a break,” Dohoon admits.

Taesan’s eyes flick up, looking into Dohoon’s face. Examining Dohoon, Taesan can’t pinpoint exactly what’s wrong, but Dohoon’s been a bit out of it the past few days. staring into the distance longer than usual and being quieter than usual. Every time Taesan questioned whether he was okay, he’d just brush it off by saying he was tired or didn’t want to talk about it.

Maybe he does need a break.

“A little escape for a bit, hm?” Taesan asks, humming softly at him. Dohoon turns to look into his eyes, nodding in agreement.

“Okay then, let’s go.”

-°⛧

Bright lights and loud music beat through the windows, flashing colour outside the house. Dohoon pulls them inside with little to no effort, guiding them through crowds of people as he briefly greets them in passing.

Taesan’s wearing his classic uniform: ripped black jeans, a leather jacket and a black band tee that hugs perfectly on his figure, cropping just above his hips. Dohoon’s outfit contrasting his, the light pastel colours from his light blue jeans to his pinkish sweater, reflecting the lights from inside.

“Dohoon!” A man greets him as soon as they enter the kitchen, pulling him in by the hand. Taesan vaguely recognises their face; Dohoon either briefly mentioning their name or he’s seen them once or twice on campus.

“This is for you,” Dohoon says softly into Taesan’s ear, offering a cup full of a red liquid, the smell confirming his suspicions. “There’s blood in it, but I’m sure you could already tell,” Dohoon adds, staring down at Taesan.

Taesan takes it timidly from his hands, slowly sipping as Dohoon talks with two people in the kitchen that he notes as Mathew and Gunwook.

Maybe he’s had one too many to drink.

One after another.

As he feels himself becoming a bit looser, his brain a bit fuzzier and his judgement a bit foggier, he latches himself deeper into Dohoon’s side. He rests his head on Dohoon’s shoulder, Dohoon swaying their bodies side to side in rhythm with the music.

The scent of his blood is intense, too intense for Taesan to ignore, especially in his current state. He rubs his nose over the skin, softly kissing his neck and biting marks onto his shudder. Dohoon bites down onto his lip at the sensation, Taesan’s warm and wet mouth consuming his thoughts.

Taesan lifts his head, breathing heavily against Dohoon’s skin. His eyes flash a soft red as he stares up at Dohoon, the taller’s heart racing at the sight. Diving his lips down, he kisses Taesan, hungrily eating at his lips. Moaning into the kiss, the two are starving and hungry for each other. Dohoon’s hands tighten around Taesan’s waist, pushing high under his shirt. The touch against his skin sent chills down his spine. The kiss is desperate and intense.

Taesan craves more.

His fangs extend in their kiss, nipping at the thin skin on Dohoon's lips. The droplet of blood surfacing quickly licked up by Taesan’s eager tongue. Taesan moans, the slight taste awakening his insatiable hunger.

Dohoon moves, latching his lips onto Taesan’s jaw, licking and kissing against the veins. Pulling apart, Dohoon’s eyes flash a twin red, complementing the shade Taesan’s eyes shone moments before.

Dohoon grabs Taesan’s wrist, walking them out of the kitchen and through the crowded living room. He didn’t care for who he bumped into as he guided them through, his goal to get them upstairs as fast as he possibly could.

Walking up, that numbing feeling returns once more, watching them as they move hastily. The door slams closed, severing the gaze, hiding them away from the outside world.

Looking up from the bottom of the stairs, his thoughts are interrupted. A breathless Jaehyun hunches over in front of him, huffing and puffing, struggling to catch his breath. Leehan stares down at him, slightly confused as to what’s going on.

“It’s done.” Jaehyun, huffs out, a pained expression rearing itself as he pushes himself up.

“The video is gone.”

Leehan’s face drops, stiffening. His heart plummeting into his stomach. “What?”

“Please don’t make me repeat myself,” Jaehyun says, holding onto his sides, face scrunching up in all kinds of ways.

“How?”

“Ricky”, Jaehyun responds bluntly.

Of course this is Ricky’s doing.

The fucking saint.

Leehan’s brain starts working once again, eyes dashing across the floor as his mind pieces the puzzle together. Now that the video is gone. Taesan isn’t at risk anymore.

There’s nothing holding him back.

His eyes dart upwards, locking onto the door Taesan disappeared behind.

He needs to get his man back.

Light and noise pierce through the room as the door flies open, Leehan’s eyes landing on the two. Dohoon hovering over Taesan’s body as the two break their lips apart to look at him in the doorway. Dohoon jumps at the suddenness of the action before recognising Leehan’s face. His face drops from fear to frustration, his face scrunching up into a hard expression.

“Can’t you just leave us the fuck alone?” Dohoon shouts, his voice laced with anger, a bit of blood spread across his lips.

Leehan’s chest moves up and down, completely ignoring Dohoon as his eyes stay locked onto Taesan.

“Can we talk?”

Sharing a stare, both Taesan and Dohoon look at him confused, the vulnerability in his voice new to Dohoon’s ears. The sound alone causes Taesan’s heart to squeeze, but he’s not that easily convinced. Standing behind Leehan, a pair of pleading eyes watches over them, almost desperately attempting to hide away.

“Please”, Leehan begs, his eyes covered in a reflective glaze.

“Why the fuck would I want to—“ Taesan starts harshly, but Dohoon interrupts him.

“Fine,” Dohoon says, straightening himself up and licking once over his lips. He glances at Taesan, a softened expression covering his exterior. He makes his way towards the door, pushing past Leehan, before closing the door behind himself. Taesan wishes he could find his behaviour strange, wishes he didn’t see Shinyu standing by the door, but he did.

Silence stills the air around them as the door muffles the loud noises. Taesan pushes himself up to sit upright on the bed, fixing his shirt and rubbing his face. He swings his legs over the side of the bed, refusing to make eye contact with Leehan, eyes fixed on the floor.

“Taesan.”

“What do you want, Leehan?” Taesan tensely responds. The sharpness in his voice apparent.

“Please just listen—“

“No—“ Taesan snaps, turning to face him, his eyes moving up to look directly into Leehan’s eyes. “ I’m actually sick of listening to you; you always do this.” His eyes already watering as he finishes his sentence.

Leehan stands back, taking the punches. The hurt on Taesan’s face is evident; the twitches of the muscles and sharpness of tongue bare his open wounds.

“You did what you did, and that said enough. Don’t you think you’ve made your point already?” Taesan’s words are like poison, slowly trickling their way down his spine.

“ Taesan, please, it’s not… I know I fucked up, but—,” Leehan cautiously says, his eyes threatening to spill.

“What do you want? a third chance to fuck things up?” Taesan hisses.

The implication cuts Leehan deep, more than he thought it would. Leehan cracks slightly, his eyes weakly releasing a tear, the wet liquid trailing down his cheek. “Please just let me explain,” Leehan begs, taking a step forward.

“Explain what?“ Taesan says, his voice becoming weaker. His eyes remain unforgiving, staring daggers into Leehan’s soul.

“ Heeseung made me leave you.” Leehan admits it, his body tethering, tears impatiently pending in his tear ducts.

“Bullshit”, Taesan spits out, entirely unconvinced. “If you’re going to lie, at least –“

“He had a video of me and you that night at the club.” Leehan confesses. Images of that night flash in his mind, bringing him down to his breaking point. Tears stream down his cheek, slipping down his neck and staining his T-shirt's neckline. His face remains the same, not contorting, not scrunching, only sorrowfully watching over Taesan.

Taesan’s heart stills. His face falling flat, the tension in the muscles disperses for a moment. “What?” he asks painfully, his mind freezing, anger tag-teaming with confusion.

“He said he’d show it to the council.” Leehan says frantically, the conversation between him and Heeseung flashing in his mind. That horrid video replays in his mind whenever he tries to sleep at night. The image of Taesan lying lifeless on the floor eats at him, the guilt consuming his being. “We’re not supposed to turn humans; if he showed them that video, they would’ve…” Leehan admits it, his tears coming out persistently again. “They would’ve killed you.” Leehan scrunches his face up; his whole body looked like it was in pain, like something was gnawing at his insides.

Taesan can’t believe his ears. Staring at the man a few feet away from him, he doesn’t know what to think. This is really the story Leehan’s going with? Baffled, he lets out a laugh that's void of humour. “You’re joking.”

“I swear, I’m not lying to you, Taesan.” Leehan's eyebrows knit upwards; he moves closer to Taesan, his puppy-like eyes shining even more now that the moonlight from the window reflects off them. “Please believe me. You can even ask Ricky.”

Examining Leehan’s face, he can only recall one other time Leehan looked this desperate, and that was the first time he begged to make it up to Taesan.

“So now what? You're his pet or something?“ Taesan tears his eyes away from Leehan’s face, his heart too weak to look at Leehan right now.

“Not anymore; the video is gone,“ Leehan says truthfully through short inhales. “It's done now.”

“ So you won’t have to worry about me anymore then?” Taesan fires back, his voice too calm. He pushes himself up from the bed, slowly making his way towards the door, eyes scanning over the floor before turning to face Leehan.

“ Taesan, I can’t just do that.“ Leehan’s voice comes out small and bruised.

“Why not? You already did it twice.” Taesan stops; his expression is still hard.

“Taesan—“ Leehan starts, not being able to hold back anymore. “I – I’m losing my mind. I can’t do anything without thinking about you. I can’t sleep. I can’t eat. Everything I do just brings me back to you –“. Leehan breaks, his trembling lips interrupting tears as they beat down his face. His voice becomes shakier the more he talks. “No matter how hard I tried to leave you alone, I just couldn’t. I just wanted you to be happy, but seeing you happy with him drove me insane; I hated seeing you smile and not being the reason for it. “ His voice cracks, Leehan making quick to clear his throat. “All I ever think about is you; all I want is you.“

Taesan can’t help his heart now, the strings tugging too violently to ignore the stinging. Staring into Leehan’s eyes, his own eyes beginning to flood, the tear stains on Leehan’s cheek glistening, taunting his own to fall.

“I know, I fucked up, I know, I just I—“

Staring up at him, they’re much closer than before, Leehan watching as Taesan’s eyes weakly shake.

“I love you too much to let you go,” Leehan admits.

Taesan feels like his world just stopped. His brain frying as he stares at the man in front of him. The confession flowed past his lips too smoothly, words too gentle and gaze too soft for his brain to comprehend. The words Taesan had begged to hear months ago finally reach his ears. His eyes stare deeper into Leehan’s, swallowing down a strange feeling stuck in his throat. His heart beats aggressively in his chest, eyes burning from not blinking.

Loud noises from outside snap him out of his trance, the sounds bringing him back to reality.

“Can we talk somewhere else?” Taesan whispers. Leehan, nodding in agreement, allows Taesan to guide them out of the room.

Focusing on not tripping down the stairs, he walks calmly, watching as his feet move step by step. Reaching the floor, he scans over the crowd, catching a glimpse of Dohoon's tall figure. He leans down as he talks to Shinyu in the corner of the room; his intense gaze is unmistakable.

His heart pulls at the sight; he kind of expected it, but seeing them together with his own eyes hurt more than he expected.

-°⛧

The river’s soothing noises bless his ears, sobering him up the longer he sits on the bench. Watching the breeze pick up small ripples in the river as the city lights reflect sparkles off the surface of the water isn’t even enough to deter his mind.

“This isn’t fair. Why now? Why when things just started feeling normal.” Taesan asks loosely, his head hanging low.

Leehan stands nervously in front of the bench, watching over Taesan as he speaks. Taesan’s eyes are fixated on the water, hands tucked tightly under his arms.

“I’m sorry.”

Taesan breathes in, stuffing his hands into his jacket pockets. Even if it wasn’t fully Leehan’s choice to do what he did, it still happened. The hurt he felt still remains. What he went through still happened. Nothing can change that.

Taesan looks up at him, Leehan’s face abundantly covered in sorrow. The sadness in the boy's eyes matching his own, his desperate pleas visible on his face. Leehan sits down cautiously next to him, staring attentively up at Taesan. As he dryly swallows, he timidly opens his mouth to speak again, but Taesan beats him to it.

“Do you know how shit I felt when I saw you with someone else? How it felt to not be good enough again?” Taesan inhales sharply, pushing his head back to look at the stars before he continues.

“I couldn’t do anything but sit and cry. I stopped caring about my health; I stopped looking forward to things. I could barely even stomach anything after you left; Ricky had to force me to eat.” Taesan sucks in his bottom lip, biting on the skin to hold himself together.

“ I’m sorry. I’m so sorry for hurting you. The guilt eats at me every day about the way I made you feel and the life I stole away from you. I hate myself for it. You never deserved any of that.” Leehan trails off, his voice becoming softer and more fragile. Taesan turns his head to glance at Leehan, tears staining his flushed cheeks, the pinkish colour blushing across his cheeks and nose.

“You deserve someone like Dohoon.” Leehan says with a heavy heart, his body slumping a bit at the admission.

Taesan can’t explain it, but he feels his heart break as he hears those words. An agonising sting stemming from somewhere deep-rooted in his chest. The implication, reminding him too much of his younger self. Those scars and feelings are too well known to not empathise with the boy in front of him.

“- But I just, I can’t stay away from you.” Leehan continues, “No matter how hard I try, it’s like I’d rather die than be away from you. I just want you to be happy – but I hate that it’s not with me.” Leehan’s tears persist, overflowing down his face. “I know I fucked up badly. I’m not expecting you to forgive me, but I just want you to believe me when I say I won’t leave again. That was the last time.”

Leehan’s eyes plead desperately. He doesn’t think he’s ever seen Leehan look this worried, even more than when he turned him. Leehan bares his feelings so openly to him, raw and vulnerable. Inhaling, Taesan watches him. “You hurt me a lot, Leehan.“

Leehan takes a sharp breath in, sucking in the tears resting in his eyes. “ I’m so, so sorry. I never cared this much for someone before. I promise I won’t make you feel that way again.”

Taesan gazes into Leehan’s red and slightly puffy eyes, the stars seemingly reflecting in them. The wet marks on his cheeks glisten in moonlight. Leehan’s lips are parted, his breathing hard and unsteady.

“ I meant it when I said I love you. I promise to do everything to prove it to you. I’ll show you; I’ll make sure you won’t have to question it.“

Taesan sniffles, his emotions finally reaching his face. Taesan’s heart is too tender and soft for Leehan to be making such big promises, proclaiming his love for him so openly. Feeling a tear trickle down his face, he swipes his hand under his eye to wipe it away.

“ I’m still really fucking mad at you.”

Leehan looks up at Taesan, the fresh tears staining his softened expression, his breathing returning to a calmer state.

“I know; I have a lot to make up for,” Leehan responds firmly.

“I’m glad you know that,” Taesan responds, the teasing tone perking Leehan’s ears. Taesan spares Leehan a softer glance before pushing himself up from the bench. Standing up quickly, his vision blanks, seeing nothing but black. Taking a moment, he stumbles a bit before his vision comes back. An arm rushes, coming to wrap around his waist to hold him steady.

“What’s wrong?” Leehan asks panickedly, his voice full of worry.

With one hand holding onto his forehead, he squeezes his eyes hard. Shaking his head, he tries to shake the dizziness away but fails, only making it worse. “I think I drank too much.”

Leehan acts quickly, hooking Taesan’s one arm over his shoulder before sweeping his arm under Taesan’s legs, picking him up in a swift motion.

“What are you doing? My legs still work.” Taesan says, shooting Leehan a confused look, moving purposefully in Leehan’s arms to escape his grasp.

“I said I’m going to show you,” Leehan says, pulling Taesan higher up on his grip. Taesan stops trying to fight him and just accepts his fate, the mental exhaustion slowly creeping up on him.

“Let’s get you home.”

Unlocking the door, Leehan leads Taesan to the couch, placing him down gently, his head softly sinking into the pillow. Locking the door, he returns to Taesan’s side with something warm, his nose picking up the scent immediately. Taking the cup from Leehan’s hands, he greedily drinks the contents up in a flash. Leehan helps him peel off his jacket, Taesan mindlessly kicking off his pants in front of Leehan before lying down on the couch.

Leehan feels strange averting his gaze, as if they haven’t seen so much of each other already, but somehow this felt different. Leehan reaches for a blanket Taesan usually keeps in the living room and tosses it over Taesan’s body, making sure it covers him nicely. Taesan snuggles deeper into the throw cushion, scrunching his body up.

Leehan can’t hide his smile as he looks down at him sleeping so peacefully. The action reminding him of something akin to a cat. Switching off the light, he turns to move towards the door.

“Don’t go.”

He hears Taesan call out , his hand gripping around his pointy finger, stopping him in his tracks. Glancing down, Taesan’s sleepy eyes beg for him to stay. Leehan’s a weak man; folding too easily for Taesan feels like it’s written in his DNA.

“Okay”,

He moves an abandoned pillow on the floor with his foot before sitting down on it. Adjusting his head against the soft edge of the couch till he found a comfortable spot. Looking up at Taesan, his eyes slowly bat back to sleep, his finger still tightly held in his grasp.

Leehan missed this. How cute Taesan looked asleep, his soft cheeks squishing against his pillow and his lips extra pouty. His heart feels overwhelmed; finding the sight enduring, he watches over Taesan’s, his own eyes becoming heavier with each blink.

-°⛧

A knock on the door stirs him in his sleep, the sound persisting even in his dreams. Groggily he wakes up, wiping the sleep from his eyes; he hears a body next to him move.

Looking down, he’s surprised to see Leehan, who’s presumably stayed the night by him – on the floor. His memory slowly creeping back to him, Leehan placing him down on the couch, and him begging him to stay.

Cursing himself out he shakes the image from his brain, trying not to die from embarrassment. He’s supposed to be mad at him, yet there he was, begging him to sleep next to him. The sound pounds again; Taesan, finally getting up now, quickly grabbing a pair of sweatpants from his room, planning to not scare whoever’s by the door.

Turning the doorknob, he’s greeted by kind of the last person he wants to deal with right then. Standing there, in the same clothes as last night, Dohoon stares at him. The scattered wrinkles on his shirt and messiness of his hair making a convincing statement.

“Hey,” Dohoon greets nervously, flashing a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Hey,” Taesan responds, not quite knowing what to think of this situation.

“Can I have a talk with you?”

Taesan’s mind blanks for a second, snapping back to reality. He turns to peek inside the apartment to look at Leehan, the man still fast asleep.

“Sure”

Walking over to the makeshift garden the campus has for the students, they occupy one of the many benches, the cold stone shocking his nervous system.

“I owe you an apology,“ Dohoon says, moving his body towards Taesan.

“ I’m really sorry for how I acted last night. I shouldn’t have left you alone there. I just got so angry when I saw Leehan, and then Shinyu was there, and I just – I blanked.”

Taesan listens to him attentively.

“Are you okay? He didn’t do anything right?” Dohoon asks suddenly, eyes scanning over Taesan.

“No, he didn’t.”

“Okay, good,” Dohoon responds with a nod. There’s an awkwardness that follows, the cold air of the morning nipping at their noses.

“What happened with Shinyu?”

Dohoon stills, holding his breath as the topic is brought up. “Well, he found out I’m a vampire… He didn’t take it well at first, but talking to him last night helped a lot,” he says nervously, the interaction more nerve-wracking to him as he tries to let on.

“Are you guys…” Taesan trails on, the question slipping out before his brain could stop him.

“No!” Dohoon half shouts, the volume surprising even himself. “I mean, no.” Calming down, he reiterates.

“I just needed to talk to him first,” the soft tone in his voice giving him away. Taesan can tell it’s more than that; watching Dohoon’s eyes, he can see how much he’s battling himself inside. Dohoon really does wear his heart on his sleeves.

“ Dohoon… it’s okay.” Dohoon looks up, Taesan serving him a soft smile, “ I can tell you still have feelings for him.”

“Taesan—“ Dohoon starts, but it is cut off.

“No, it’s really okay. I kind of had a feeling.” Taesan replies softly. “ It was nice being shown off so proudly, and you always treated me so well, but I knew you were never really mine to keep.” Taesan’s voice comes out a lot sadder than he thought. But he wasn’t lying. Although their time together was good, he could tell there was something Dohoon was holding onto. Something Taesan couldn’t give him.

Dohoon’s eyebrows furrow, his face flooding with confusion. “ Hey, I don’t like that. You’re an amazing person; I’m lucky to have even had you in my life. You made everything so much better. I really couldn't have asked for anything more of you. You’re perfect, Taesan.”

“But you’re still in love with Shinyu,” Taesan adds, deflecting Dohoon's compliments.

“But that’s not a reflection on you; you’re easy to love, Taesan.” Dohoon finishes.

Easy to love

Something about those last words hits him. harder than he expected. A strong pang hitting the wind out of him, a deep sense of peace revitalises in his chest, a numbing warmth flowing to the rest of his limbs. The implication of his words alone caused too much of a visceral reaction for him to ignore. He sits, his brain intuitively grasping the reality of those simple words he didn’t realise he needed to hear.

He got used to telling himself that he’s just easy to fuck, easy to use, and easy to toss aside.

But he’s never thought of himself as

easy to love.

“Thank you, Dohoon,“ Taesan whispers, a crack in his voice giving him away.

Dohoon moves closer, opening his arms, inviting Taesan into the embrace. Taesan briefly accepts, blinking his tears away.

“Thank you for not being mad at me,” Dohoon admits.

“ I don’t think I can be even if I tried.” Taesan lets out a brief laugh, wiping under his eyes. Dohoon returned a soft smile his way at the response.

“Please, don’t be a stranger.”

And just like that, they go their separate ways. It’s a bittersweet ending, but somewhere inside, Taesan knows that they needed each other. That there was a reason behind their short-lived connection; whatever it was, it led them forward, wherever that may be.

-°⛧

Twisting the lock, he opens the door. A strange aura floating in the air. He finds his apartment a lot neater than he had left it. And a lot more empty. His heart sinks a little as he sees the living room vacant. Calling out Leehan’s name and not getting a response only confirmed his suspicions.

He must’ve gone home.

He stops himself from coming up with other reasons. Inhaling deeply, he tries not to overthink, the heavy feeling in his chest numbing. With everything from the past week having left him spent, emotionally and mentally exhausted, he doesn’t think his heart can handle anything more.

A warm aroma pauses his thoughts, the welcoming smell seeping into his senses. Walking towards the kitchen, he spots it.

The warm blood bag with a yellow post-it note is placed neatly on top.

‘I still owe you a proper date’