Chapter Text
Seoul had a seedy underbelly. It lived in plain sight really, in unencrypted chat rooms and basement bars. Unseen to those who wanted to unsee it. Seen to those who wanted it. Not unlike any other city. Yeonjun had been party to the best and the worst of that gritty life.
They saw each other in passing at the entrance to the bar. Yeonjun wouldn't have noticed if not for the smell of Soobin’s cologne. Wading through the crowd toward the back staircase, Yeonjun caught the scent and turned to look.
Soobin stood out like a sore thumb. All clean and towering, wearing a button down and slacks in a leather dive bar. Unsure of how to lean on the bar top, almost like he was afraid of it. Hand curled against the ledge.
Soobin flagged down the bartender. “I'm here for…for…” Soobin projected over the music, but it was so deafening that he couldn't even hear himself. He double checked the messages on his phone, “Is this where I give the password?” the bartender looked at him with a blank stare. His face heated up.
“That's downstairs.” Yeonjun called out. “You give the password downstairs.”
Soobin whipped around. When their eyes locked, Soobin was struck dumb. Yeonjun noticed that scent again, like powdery amber. Fluffy black hair and a rounded bunny nose; one of those spoiled rich puppies who'd wandered too far west of Hannam. Too entitled. Too tall. Too attractive to bother with kinks. Yeonjun looked away. Brief intrigue dissolved into a steely gaze.
“I’m going too. I can show you there.” Yeonjun said.
“...Thanks,” Soobin replied.
Yeonjun guided them through the crowd to the back stairs. The music became a cluster of buzzing as they descended the stairwell.
“Just so you know, no one upstairs knows what goes on down here. Sniffing around could get the whole thing busted open.” Yeonjun said.
“Sorry…I got confused by the instructions.” Soobin replied.
Yeonjun was silent. He led them down another flight. Inside a few steps, Soobin found the resolve to continue the conversation.
“....So you’ve been to one of these before?” Soobin asked.
“...” Yeonjun scoffed, “Yeah.” It was easy to tell that the puppy was out of the loop.
They made it to the basement. A concrete room with minimal furniture and no frills. There were already guys waiting. That's when Soobin lost sight of his guide. Everyone was older. Smelling of grime and smokes, five o'clock shadow. Soobin hung back in the corner awkwardly. Thinking to himself that perhaps this was a mistake.
Soobin saw Yeonjun again, a ways across the room. He felt relieved. Was it because they were close in age? Soobin fixated on him. Yeonjun was uncharacteristically pretty for a kid from the street. Something in the tickle of shaggy bangs, deep red like his aura. Intense. Feathery lashes over foxy eyes. The smell of cloves. Baggy pants and a windbreaker. Soobin wondered about him endlessly. The kind of guy that made his own way. The kind of guy you could never catch off guard. Someone cool like that could have anyone they wanted. Why frequent something like this? But then Soobin really had no idea how he'd ended up there either.
All the promo called it the “best lay of your life” and talked endlessly about a “fuckable” body. Soobin's expectation was someone soft. One of those pretty boys that was almost like a girl, maybe. It had to be someone amazing to keep a guy like that on the hook. Soobin didn't know what was going to happen. He wanted to bolt just thinking about it: all these people had gathered here for the same thing. Had paid for the same thing. A gangbang. And Soobin was one of them.
Yeonjun unzipped his jacket. It slid down his shoulders. He was wearing nothing underneath. The men started to crowd around him. That's when it all sunk in. Soobin’s heart stopped.
Yeonjun tugged at the waistband of his sweats. When they slipped down his knees and piled on the floor, there was no mistaking it. All that gawping, yet Soobin never made the right guess. Yeonjun didn't pay to be there. He was the one getting fucked.
It all happened so fast. The crowd backed Yeonjun into a corner. Up against an empty bar top. Soobin could only partially see. Yeonjun’s intimidating blank stare, blocked from view for only moments. A split second later, hands all over him, face flush and overwhelmed. His scrappy, strong facade evaporated.
Loud music started going, but Soobin could still hear Yeonjun's voice. Honey sweet moans climbing. When they bent him over. Toned until the bottom half. Pretty hips, plump thighs. Way too feral, way too honest. Soobin felt all the wires cross. Flooded with something entirely new. Attraction, heightened by dull, unreasonable anger. He was paralyzed. Standing back, unable to process. Staring in confusion.
He thought the shock would last longer. He thought he'd be repelled, but he wasn’t. Watching Yeonjun get fucked, Soobin wanted him. He wanted it so bad, he hated it. Soobin blushed as soon as he recognized the feeling. Possessiveness. Jealousy. How was that even possible?
Soobin snagged a condom from the check-in counter by the door. He wished he'd never come. Because he was about to do something unthinkable.
Yeonjun couldn't tell how much time had passed. It all blurred together. He wasn't sure how many people had fucked him. It had to have been an hour or more. This crowd was hard to please.
He had a dick in his mouth. Naked on the floor. Swirling his tongue while it sank to the back of his throat. Someone spread his legs, lined it all up. Yeonjun was too distracted at first. Didn't see who it was. Didn't care. Until he caught that scent and his eyes flickered up.
That's when Soobin pushed in. Cock so huge that it stalled at the girth. Yeonjun’s heart did a backflip. Not even a warning. The lube and condom could only get so far. It was too big to take all at once.
Yeonjun cried out. The dick in his mouth came out with a pop.
“Ngh–!?” Yeonjun whimpered. His feet skidded against the floor, fighting it on instinct. Soobin kept pushing in. “You??--!” Yeonjun began in dismay. His voice was sloppy, slurred, lips all wet and raw. He couldn't say anymore.
Soobin thrust in a few times, shallow, trying to make room. It was so tight. Yeonjun looked at him through dazed eyes. Soobin’s face was flush, sweat beading at his temple, boyish, melting away. That amber scent mixed with the smell of his sweat. Way too sexy. Yeonjun blushed. No way someone like that was gonna fuck him.
Soobin crammed his cock in, all the way to the hilt. Yeonjun felt so stuffed, he completely lost himself. He looked down at where they were connected. Couldn't form words if he tried. Inhaling with a shallow whine.
“Woah. He's really feeling it.” Someone commented, finger grazing Yeonjun’s erection. He was hard immediately. Yeonjun’s hips jerked. “I think he likes you.”
Soobin looked at him. Yeonjun was delirious, face-fucked and dewy-eyed. The second their eyes met, Yeonjun thought he could cum. He could feel Soobin throbbing inside, like the eye contact turned him on. The tension was insane. Pure pleasure, collision of heaven and hell. There were so many people, but in that instant, all Yeonjun could see was him.
Soobin gripped the underside of Yeonjun’s thigh, holding him open. Fucking him rough. The condom caught inside. Sticky. Yeonjun felt everything. Soobin’s cock raked past that knot. Jagged, reckless. Yeonjun gasped, dick beading over with precum, biting his lip to suppress his sounds. His knees closed up, but Soobin forced them open again. Shamelessly fucking into him. Hitting it over and over. A nasty pace. It felt too good. Yeonjun tried to sit up, in a panic. He was gonna get off. No way.
They didn't even know each other.
Yeonjun made it back to his apartment. The ground was damp outside. He took his shoes off in the doorway. A low-lit, haphazard studio. Boxes as tabletops. A twin bed, inches from the ground. Beomgyu was sitting on the floor, against the bed frame, scrolling his phone.
Yeonjun plopped face-first into his bed and screamed into the pillow.
Beomgyu scoffed, “...That bad, huh?”
“Holy fukkk.” Yeonjun groaned, muffled. He rolled over slowly. Staring up at the ceiling. His whole body had a pulse. He couldn't feel anything on his lower half. “I think…” he began, “I just had the best sex of my life.”
Beomgyu turned all the way around. “What? At the orgy??”
“Gangbang.” Yeonjun corrected.
“There's a difference?”
“I mean, yeah,” Yeonjun mumbled, “I get fucked. But I can't fuck anyone.”
“Isn't that like…how it usually is?”
“Wow.”
“Tell me I'm wrong.”
“Well like, they can't fuck anyone but me. That's the difference. It's like 1 v 5, or however many people are there.”
Beomgyu choked up a laugh, “And it was good?”
“One guy, yeah.” Yeonjun said, “Some rich kid. I don't even know what he was doing there…”
“The guy who banged you at the gangbang?” Beomgyu mused.
Yeonjun rolled his eyes and grinned, “It was good.”
“Never heard you so hung up over a weirdo.” Beomgyu said.
“Whatever.” Yeonjun laughed. “...He was kinda cute.” He put his hand over his eyes. Remembering how Soobin could barely watch him undress.
The rich ones seemed to show up just to see if it was real. Spending money on novelties because they were bored. That's what Soobin was. A tourist. But just when Yeonjun thought he'd chickened out, Soobin stepped up. Held him open and shoved it in without hesitation.
Yeonjun could still feel Soobin curled around him. The salty smell of amber and clean skin. The shape of Soobin’s mouth when he moaned. Trembling all over. Turning all the colors of the sunset while he rode it out. Grinding inside when he came. This bashful look on his face.
“...You know what he said to me when he finished?” Yeonjun began, still lost in it, “He asked, ‘what’s your name?’....So cute.”
“Did you tell him?” Beomgyu asked.
“Of course not. You know we don't, at those kinds of things…” Yeonjun replied.
“Good,” Beomgyu replied.
Yeonjun raised an eyebrow.
“...I can be cute too, y’know.” Beomgyu said, getting in bed. Yeonjun looked down absently.
“Jealous?” Yeonjun asked.
“Not for real.” Beomgyu scoffed.
Yeonjun watched Beomgyu climb on top. “But maybe a little…” Fingers slipped under Yeonjun’s top, played over his chest.
Yeonjun twitched. He moaned involuntarily. His nipples perked up. Beomgyu laughed. It struck a nerve.
Yeonjun swatted Beomgyu away. “You're such a brat.” Yeonjun spat with an irritated grin.
“Are boys supposed to react like that?” Beomgyu mused.
“I should charge you.” Yeonjun grumbled.
“I'm paying you with a service,” Beomgyu teased, “...when I get you off while you think about him.” He whispered, slipping his hands back under.
Yeonjun didn't stop him.
The next weekend, a cancellation left Yeonjun unexpectedly free. He'd met up at a friend’s tattoo shop in Hongdae, waited for a while over a pack of smokes. When the crew was together, they hit the club nearby. Some tiny, backwater basement with deafening bass and trap beats. Always so packed that the ground was sticky with booze by the end. It was just past midnight when they settled in.
“Yeonjuuunnn~ What’s good?” a voice called with a drunken drawl. It was the local dealer. He had some big bad street name, to be sure. But Yeonjun had only ever called him Shades, on account of the gaudy sunglasses he wore around, even inside. “Night off, I see.” Shades said.
Yeonjun was at the bar, leaning half off the swivel stool. Hair slicked back from his eyes. He'd worn a jacket out, but it was too hot in the club to keep it on. It slinked around his shoulders when he reached for his drink. Beomgyu was sitting next to him when Shades wandered up.
“If it isn't my least favorite face.” Yeonjun said.
“Don't be like that,” Shades said. “We’re still good, right? Next week and all.”
“Your friend? I'll meet him.” Yeonjun replied, “But I already told you, I won't run the hard shit. And I’m charging more if he wants to fuck me.”
“He's just picking up. But I already told you, I don't decide what's in the order.” Shades said.
“Not my problem. You find someone else to run the stuff I won’t, and do a two-part pickup. If I find out you moved anything other than weed by my place, I’ll kill you.” Yeonjun threatened.
Shades laughed, “Okay, okay. I'll fixed it.”
“You think he's joking.” Beomgyu commented, “He’ll tear your ass up.”
“You should stay on. Being a runner is so small-time. The boss will take care of you.” Shades said.
“And when all of y'all get busted? No thanks. I like having my own money. Besides, I'd never follow your lead. You're a trainwreck.” Yeonjun remarked.
“You and your attitude.” Shades said. “I wish you'd slip up for once, then I could beat your ass.”
“You wouldn't know a thing about my ass. You wanted it another way.” Yeonjun sneered, “Or, that's right, we're not supposed to talk about it.”
Shades turned bright red. His stupid sunglasses fell down his face when he got too wound up, “T-that was one time.” he stammered defensively.
Beomgyu scoffed.
“It's fine.” Yeonjun mused, “I've fucked your boss too.”
Shades blubbered indistinctly. Going from embarrassment to rage and then back again. Finally, his shifty-eyed, indecipherable string of groans faded and he walked away. That gangster slink to his walk, or maybe he was just that drunk.
“They’ll tout a mistress all day but won't ever say they're gay. I don't know why, taking it up the ass definitely makes you harder.” Yeonjun commented.
“In more ways than one.” Beomgyu snickered.
Yeonjun sighed. “I hate you.”
Yeonjun gave a sidelong glance. The second their eyes met, they snorted out a round of childish laughter.
That's when Yeonjun saw him. Standing in the corner with a bottle of beer in one hand.
“No fucking way.” Yeonjun whispered in dismay.
That tall frame was unmistakable, even through the crowd and crazy club lights. It was Soobin. Looking around like a lost puppy. Seemingly unable to find what he was looking for. Not dressed for the club at all. Same black slacks and dress shirt. Yeonjun watched him set his beer aside and roll up his sleeves. They were rolled up like that too, on that night.
“Who's that?” Beomgyu asked.
“That's him.” Yeonjun said.
“...what?” Beomgyu glitched. He stared for a moment longer and then it clicked, “You don't mean that's — he's the guy–”
“From the gangbang.” Yeonjun completed.
“Oh. That's a whole ass daddy, what the fuck.” Beomgyu said in dismay.
Soobin finally found what he was looking for, in the middle of a drink. His eyes met Yeonjun’s and he choked on his beer. Soobin devolved into a coughing fit.
“Oh. Aura loss.” Beomgyu commented.
“...cute.” Yeonjun mumbled warmly.
“Down bad for the loser daddy?” Beomgyu teased.
“Please. He's a tourist.” Yeonjun replied nonchalantly. But he couldn't stop staring, “Probably closeted too. So annoying. Rich kids' money always comes with drama and strings.”
“How did he even find you?”
“I don't know…” Yeonjun said. “Maybe it was a coincidence.”
“Pretty sure he found you.” Beomgyu said. They could feel Soobin staring from across the room. Yeonjun tried to act natural, turning away to his glass. “He's definitely here for you.” Beomgyu repeated.
Yeonjun took a gulp of his drink. Blush creeping up his ears. “No way.” Yeonjun deflected. Almost cruel how easy it was to read his excitement.
“I’ll prove it.” Beomgyu huffed, standing up. He closed the distance between them, put his hands on Yeonjun’s waist. Yeonjun was too faded to react. Beomgyu kissed him. Way too deep, boozy. Yeonjun leaned against the bar, drink unsettled in his hand. Jacket halfway down his arms.
Soobin was stunned. He nearly dropped his beer.
“You're an idiot…” Yeonjun mumbled, heart racing. He couldn't help it. Kissing in public like that.
“Pretty sure he’s here for you,” Beomgyu insisted, a look of satisfaction on his face.
“Stop screwing around.” Yeonjun said with an annoyed slap on Beomgyu’s wrist.
“You’re so mean.” Beomgyu said. He let go.
Yeonjun turned to see Soobin flustered, looking like a wounded puppy. It wasn't rocket science to guess that getting mixed up with a rich kid had more risks than benefits. Rich kids came with overbearing parents. Overbearing parents came with the police. But even Yeonjun had to admit to a spot of curiosity. Something in the way Soobin held himself, like he was already down bad, like he was pure. Yeonjun found it so annoyingly attractive.
Yeonjun finished off his drink and slapped it down on the bar.
“I'm gonna go talk to him.” Yeonjun declared, kicking up from his seat.
Before Beomgyu could get a word in, Yeonjun was already beelining it across the club.
“He knows it’s bad news, and he goes anyway,” Beomgyu muttered to himself. Yeonjun was too far gone to hear.
Soobin panicked when he saw Yeonjun coming. So obvious that it was painful to watch.
“You’re overdressed.” Yeonjun said, strolling up.
“Am I?” Soobin replied.
That scent again. Flowery and clean with a damp sandalwood finish. It took Yeonjun right back. He looked down at those broad hands; could feel the ghost of them on his body. Amber and sweat.
“How did you find me?” Yeonjun asked.
“...It would have been easier if you’d given me your name.” Soobin replied.
“And what about yours?”
“What?”
“What’s your name?”
“Oh,” Soobin blushed, “I’m Soobin.” He bowed out of habit, but it all felt backwards. They knew each other too well for this. Like it was out of order.
Yeonjun bowed from the neck, more of a nod. Scoffing at the procedure of it. Even his name was cute.
“Soobin,” Yeonjun repeated. It was crazy the way it rolled off his tongue, like he knew it already. Soobin couldn't meet his eyes, blushing wildly. Yeonjun blushed too. He shouldn't have asked for his name. Caught up in the wrong kind of pace.
“I take cash or Bitcoin,” Yeonjun announced.
Soobin glitched.
“That's what you're here for, right? To fuck me.”
“I…” Soobin’s eyes darted around. But no one in the club seemed to care. “I just thought…maybe I could get your number.”
Yeonjun scoffed and looked at the ground.
“Only clients get my number.” Yeonjun said.
“I have some cash on me.” Soobin replied immediately, “And I…I mean, I have a credit card. I don't really know how crypto works.”
Yeonjun laughed and looked away. When he looked back, Soobin was red as a tomato.
Yeonjun put out his hand. Soobin stared at it in confusion.
“Your phone. Give it.” Yeonjun said.
Soobin scrambled in his pocket, typing the passcode in. Yeonjun took his phone and opened a new contact form.
“Study up. Then text me. I prefer cash, but it's whatever.” Yeonjun said as he typed. He handed the phone back.
Soobin stared down at the contact. Phone brightness lit up his face in the dark club. He looked up with big rounded eyes, “...‘Yeonjun’?”
Yeonjun blushed. Hearing his name like that was too much. “That’s me.” Yeonjun replied. “Don't wear it out.”
“You look nice.”
“Thanks,” there wasn’t any need for flattery. Not that Yeonjun hadn’t heard a thousand times. But he couldn’t calm his heart to save his life. His steely expression wavered.
“...If there’s an ATM, I can–” Soobin began, but the implication was too much. He lost resolve part of the way through. “That is, if you’re free…even just to talk.”
He was so cute. Leading with money, so unsure of how or what to say.
Yeonjun gave a quipped laugh.
“How much do you have?”
Soobin pulled out his wallet and produced a stack of bills.
Good thing this was Yeonjun’s usual spot.
They made it to some closet. The club bass rattled the floorboards. It all shifted as soon as the door locked. Yeonjun pushed Soobin against the wall and dove for his belt. Soobin was already bricked up. This shy, paralyzed look the second they touched.
“I think you wanna do more than talk.” Yeonjun whispered.
“Can I?” Soobin asked.
“Why are you asking?” Yeonjun mumbled, “Just do it.”
Soobin’s hesitation evaporated. He yanked Yeonjun’s shirt up, broad hand, greedy, forceful, sliding blindly until his fingers grazed Yeonjun’s nipple. Yeonjun’s breath hitched. They staggered back. Yeonjun felt his legs hit a ledge. Cleaning supplies and storage clatter to the floor. Hiked up on a spare table. Soobin played with his body, stripped him down. Yeonjun moaned. He could tell Soobin had more experience with women. Touching everywhere until Yeonjun felt so teased that it pissed him off.
Soobin reached down, hand on Yeonjun’s dick, even pressure. Yeonjun's hips rolled shamelessly. Salty scent. Damp baby hairs clinging. That face. Just focusing on it could get him off. Soobin was his type. Thorough. Working Yeonjun to his limit. Leaning in. Yeonjun almost let it happen. Almost let Soobin do it. Lips so close, he could practically taste them. Soobin was gonna kiss him.
Yeonjun put his hand over Soobin’s mouth. A few fingers pressed hastily to those lips. “No,” Yeonjun muttered, breathy, “No kissing. That, and use a condom. My only rules.”
Soobin spoke into Yeonjun’s fingers. Hot breath, furrowed brow, “Why can that guy kiss you?”
“...That’s my business.” Yeonjun said dismissively. Half anticipating an argument. But no words came. Soobin just looked at him. Gaze consuming and dazed all at once.
Soobin licked Yeonjun’s fingers, slow. They sank into his mouth. Pretty, soft lips. Yeonjun’s heart fluttered. He wasn’t expecting it. Soobin beat him off a bit. Yeonjun’s whole body surged. He stiffened up in shock. Soobin’s palm was so wide, a practiced grip. Looking in his eyes, Yeonjun could sense it. Something vindictive. Possessive.
He couldn’t take it anymore. Yeonjun unzipped Soobin’s pants, wet fingers swirling over the tip of his cock, down the length. So much heat. Soobin groaned, climbing into disconnected moans. Yeonjun stroked him. Soobin’s hips jolted and tucked away. So sensitive.
“You gonna cum already?” Yeonjun taunted.
“Don’t…touch.” Soobin exhaled, haggard. He slapped Yeonjun's hand. Yeonjun sat back.
“Sorry,” Yeonjun snickered.
Soobin dug around in his pocket. He had a condom in his wallet. Didn't tear it with his teeth, could barely rip it open with both hands, a tremor while he smoothed it over his huge cock. Yeonjun bit his lip, feening for it. Finally.
Yeonjun eased himself back. He felt Soobin’s weight, pressing against the underside of his thighs. Lining it all up. Slick rubber, lubed up. Soobin pushed in all at once. Impatient.
Yeonjun gave a clipped cry. Clamped his mouth shut. Whimpering when Soobin stuffed it in. Barely enough lube on the condom. Soobin went deeper and deeper. Flush to the hilt, and Yeonjun felt everything. Breath all caught in his throat. He curled in. It was different from last time. Not as much prep.
“fuck,” Yeonjun exhaled with a sweet moan.
Soobin bucked inside. Yeonjun seized up.
“fuck, w-wait~ Just…” Yeonjun couldn’t catch his breath.
“Are you okay,” Soobin panted. His brow was in a knit. Dripping with sweat already. He was holding back. Halfway gone.
“I can take it,” Yeonjun breathed, “just–” his voice cut out, “...jeez.” Hadn't felt this panicked in a while. His heart was going crazy.
Yeonjun rolled his hips, trying to get adjusted. Felt Soobin sink in a bit more as he relaxed. Moans slipped from Yeonjun’s lips unthinkingly. He could feel the ridges of Soobin’s cock, hooked inside. The shape. Breaking it in slow.
“...Okay.” Yeonjun whispered.
“Can I?”
“Yeah.”
Soobin grinded deep. Then he thrust in once, hard. Yeonjun gasped. He felt butterflies rolling endlessly inside. It started slow, drawn out. Some swirl or spell, right over the spot Yeonjun liked most. Soobin fucked him. The first time wasn't a fluke. He was good. Really good.
Yeonjun’s dick budded with precum. It dripped messily every time Soobin rammed him. He sat up, watching Soobin's cock, moving his hips into that rhythm. Purring. Soobin looked at him. Disarming gaze. Eye contact while they fucked. Yeonjun loved it. Loved that scent, loved that face, that voice. The pace picked up. Yeonjun couldn't take his eyes away. Glistening with sweat. He could feel himself getting off. He was gonna cum. It was more than good sex. It was Soobin. Yeonjun knew it couldn't be like that. He shouldn't fall in like that. The guilt made it so much better. He couldn't stop.
Yeonjun came. It all spilled over, shaking. Whining. Uneven, heaving breath. Soobin was still fucking him, jagged and way too tight inside, finished right after. Yeonjun could feel it, even through that thin, pesky condom. Soobin looked so good when he came. Muscles rolling, exhaling shakily while he rode it out. Throbbing cock. Blush and sweat.
Soobin pulled out, even more bashful and timid. Yeonjun shuddered. For a minute, the silence carried the shock. That they'd gotten so lost in each other. The chemistry was insane. Soobin couldn't help but steal a glimpse. Yeonjun sat up in a daze; those brief, fleeting moments when he looked so honest and flustered. Disheveled red hair. Pursed lips. So pretty.
They couldn't look at each other when it was over. Yeonjun was numb standing up. He knew it was trouble. Because he wanted to go again.
Soobin texted him not long after that. Yeonjun was outside taking a smoke, holding a cigarette to his lips with one hand, scrolling his phone with the other.
“The fuck is this?” Yeonjun griped through a puff of smoke, “A fucking Newport? This tastes like shit.” He hated anything that wasn't cloves.
“Don't bum off me then.” Beomgyu said.
Yeonjun’s phone vibrated. A text from a number he didn't know.
[I figured out crypto]
[this soobin?]
[oh. yeah srry]
Yeonjun snickered. He saved the contact as [🐰]. Beomgyu stared at Yeonjun, face lit up by his phone screen. The most smitten grin while he texted. Already things had shifted.
They texted into the next week. It was the day Shades’ friend would come. Yeonjun waited on the main road. Dressed in sweats and a hoodie. The appointed time came and went. A gruff guy showed up late, following at a distance. Yeonjun took him back like a client, but that was the cover. When they made it to his apartment, Yeonjun produced a package from a trunk beside his bed. The man handed him a wad of cash. Yeonjun held the package at his side while he counted everything up. The money was short. Yeonjun gestured with his hand.
“Come on, man,” Yeonjun sighed, “Fork it over.”
“...You buying?” the man asked. “I’ll give you some to make it up.”
“Too busy to get high.” Yeonjun said. “You know I'm not the one, if you wanna reneg.”
“I deserve some compensation for this. Wasting my time with two pickups.” The man grumbled.
“You were late and now you’re pulling basic ass shit on me like you think you can work me. You wanna talk about wasting time? I’m not fucking stupid.” Yeonjun said. “Or do you just not have the money?”
“I’ve got your fucking money.” the man snapped. He dug in his pockets and threw a roll of bills. Yeonjun’s hands were resting in his hoodie. When the money came flying at his face, he whipped out one hand and caught it.
“Was that so hard?” Yeonjun remarked.
“Hand it over.”
Yeonjun traded the package. But when the man put his hand on it, Yeonjun didn’t let go. Meeting his eyes. “Let’s not make this a normal thing.” Yeonjun said, “Ask around about me. I’ll never let you short me.”
The man snatched the package away. He immediately tore it open and scanned the contents. He started to walk toward the door. Yeonjun followed him and saw him out. In the street, the man made one final remark, “I did ask around about you. Funny you don't hit drugs, but you'll hit it another way.”
Yeonjun was silent.
“Do you mix business and pleasure?” The man asked.
Yeonjun laughed under his breath. The way the vibe changed without missing a beat. The phrasing was so uncool.
“I do. But you can't short me there, either.” Yeonjun said.
The man looked over Yeonjun slowly. The grubby gaze that dressed him down. “Not very feminine, are you?”
“No, I'm not.” Yeonjun said bluntly.
“…I’ll bite.”
“Not this time.” Yeonjun said, “I'm already late for the next thing.”
“I'll be early next time. And I'll stay late.” the man had this tone. Slippery.
“You won't need time and a half.”
“You think I can't afford it?”
“No,” Yeonjun laughed, “You won't last.”
The man traced his tongue over his teeth with a short scoff. He was pissed, stepping forward. Looming over Yeonjun. “I’ll make you squeal like a bitch–”
“Yeonjun~!” A voice called. Just then, Beomgyu rounded the corner. He was far down the block. But even at a distance, the tension was obvious.
“And there's what I'm late for,” Yeonjun said to the man, “We’ll see who’s right next time.”
“Whatever. Forget it.” The man huffed. He stomped off.
But Yeonjun knew the bait was enough. Gangsters were all so easy. Any question of pride and they'd never back down. Beomgyu made it to Yeonjun’s side, carrying a few bags of groceries, a messenger bag and headphones around his neck. He must have just gotten off the subway. Yeonjun helped carry the groceries to the apartment.
“What's wrong with him?” Beomgyu mumbled as they walked.
“He’s gay.” Yeonjun said.
Beomgyu wheezed with laughter.
Sometimes Soobin couldn't believe the things he'd done. The wildest thing that had ever happened to him was Yeonjun. He never thought anything about a gangbang would interest him. He never thought he'd be fucking someone in a closet. Yeonjun drove him crazy. His oppressive aura. Something untamed about him. The contrast couldn't be more complete when they had sex. Every time they finished, Soobin wanted to see it again. Yeonjun whining underneath him.
Soobin was immediately invested. He discussed it all through the week, sent money on Bitcoin in advance, took cash out just in case.
[I'm off this weekend] [are you free?]
[sunday]
[Can I book the whole day?]
[You want to do it the whole day?]
[No!] [I just] [thought we could hang out]
[I don't do dates…]
Soobin’s heart raced the second he read that text. Rejection hit him like a ton of bricks. Feeling somehow that he'd made himself too available. But minutes later, Yeonjun replied again.
[I can do the day for 3M]
3 million KRW. 10 times his normal rate. But then, Soobin never cared about the price. It was never a barrier. Anticipation rushed over him all at once. His leg bounced excitedly under the table.
“Is that him?”
Soobin snapped back to reality. He’d been sitting in the dining hall at breakfast. Across from him, longtime classmate, lifetime friend; Hueningkai. They were up early to cram before their next quiz. Half awake over a sad stack of soggy pancakes. That is, until Yeonjun texted. And it was like everything rebooted in an instant.
“Is that him?” Hueningkai repeated.
“Huh?” Soobin asked.
“You’re talking with him, right?”
“Oh. Yeah,”
“Well, did he send you a picture?”
“I asked for pics.” Soobin began, “He charged me for them and then I realized…well I can’t show them to you.” Soobin said, blushing.
“Hoho ho, are they racy~?” Hueningkai asked.
“...I just meant normal photos.” Soobin despaired, “I can’t believe I’m doing this.”
“What did you expect?” Hueningkai chuckled, “You’re a proper sugar daddy now.”
“You did this to me!” Soobin complained with a silly tone, “You made me go in the first place.”
Hueningkai put his hand on his chest with an exaggerated, offended huff, “What a sore loser. You lost the bet! And anyway, you were just supposed to go. No one made you sleep with anyone.”
“You even blackmailed me when I said I didn’t want to go!”
“Because you’re a chicken and a deal’s a deal! Where’s your honor?”
“You’re evil!”
Hueingkai giggled. Soobin gave an exaggerated groan and threw his head toward the ceiling.
“Dude. It’s so bad.” Soobin lamented, running his hands over his face, “It’s really really bad.” He picked at his sad pancakes with his fork.
“I can tell.” Hueningkai said. Soobin took a bite, “I’ve never seen you so interested in someone.” Hueningkai continued. “...Or sex.”
Soobin choked.
Soobin was buzzing with excitement. Sunday came. They met up at some shop.
Yeonjun was wrapping up some other business. He had to get a few new lackeys up to speed, mostly because Shades was literally useless when it came to training anyone. Most of them were runners like him, some were new dealers. Beomgyu tagged along.
Yeonjun hung around while the kids came up and asked him questions. He went outside for a smoke while the conversations carried on. Yeonjun pulled a pack of cloves, lit one idly. The sunlight was harsh in early fall. That’s when Soobin showed up. He stood at a distance, waiting for Yeonjun to finish. Yeonjun’s eyes turned up for just a split second. Soobin was flattened by that gaze in an instant, more than a little enamored with Yeonjun’s tough exterior.
“Why’s he here?” Beomgyu mumbled.
“I’m going with him after this.” Yeonjun said.
“In the middle of the day? Where?” Beomgyu asked.
“I don’t know. He’s taking me.”
“You sure you know him well enough for that?”
“Nosy. I’m not a chick.” Yeonjun said, lingering with a long drag of his cigarette. Staring at Soobin. Yeonjun stuck his cigarette in Beomgyu’s mouth. Beomgyu jumped.
“I’ll be fine.” Yeonjun said.
When he was done, Yeonjun went to Soobin. It was the strangest chemistry to see them together. This sketchy, babyfaced street rat talking with a clean-cut, spoiled college kid. Like the rose and the amaranth.
“Who’s the nerd?” one of the lackeys asked.
“His new boyfriend, I guess.” Beomgyu said. He took a drag of Yeonjun’s cigarette. Cloves. The taste was too complicated for him. He took it from his mouth and looked at it absently.
“Oh…but…Aren’t you his boyfriend?”
Beomgyu stared at the cig, “Nah. I’m just along for the ride.”
It was the first time Soobin had seen Yeonjun during the day. He was even prettier. Something about the way he carried himself. Even his mean mug had an endearing pout to it.
They walked around Hannam. Soobin had long been familiar with every shop in the neighborhood. Its quaint hillside boutiques and hidden cafes. Yeonjun minded his business, skimming through clothing racks, but garnered more eyes than a celebrity. It was the contrast too, the two of them together. Soobin couldn't hide his expression if he tried. Any stranger would notice how he looked at Yeonjun. Like he adored him. Yeonjun tried not to get too flustered by it. It was like Soobin had no concept of the risk in it; looking at another guy like that.
Yeonjun grabbed a pair of glasses on display. Put them on in the mirror. He noticed Soobin staring.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Yeonjun said through the reflection. There were some girls in the store. Yeonjun saw them in the mirror too, gawping at Soobin while his back was turned.
“You look nice.” Soobin said.
“Like a college kid?” Yeonjun asked playfully. Wide, round frames made him look so much younger. “But that’s not what I meant.” He turned around and took the glasses off.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” Yeonjun repeated.
“Like what?”
“Like I’m your boyfriend.” Yeonjun said bluntly.
Soobin blushed. “I…Don’t know what you mean.”
Yeonjun leaned against the display table. Girls were still staring. It was irritating. Yeonjun couldn’t shake the thought. That this whole routine wasn’t meant for them.
“Why me?” Yeonjun asked.
Soobin pursed his lips, struggling to find the courage to speak. Finally he said, “...I just think you’re really cool.”
Yeonjun blushed too. He looked at the ground, “You’re so weird. I feel like you don’t get that you could have anybody.”
“I don’t want anybody.” Soobin muttered, “I want you.”
Yeonjun’s heart skipped a beat. He kicked himself. If anyone else had said that to him, he wouldn’t feel a thing.
“You don’t have to rizz me up…” Yeonjun said under his breath, “I’ll do whatever. You’re paying, afterall.”
“I like it like this.” Soobin replied.
Yeonjun couldn’t handle him. How could Soobin be like that? So oblivious and direct at the same time. Everything about him was disarming.
They wandered into another store. Soobin idly perused the clothing rack. Yeonjun walked around. The space was industrial with high ceilings and a good sound system. Only a few pieces on display. Yeonjun admired a watch in a glass case. The thinnest strap with a round face. It was a vintage designer import, probably had a story. Probably ran loose. No one asked if Yeonjun wanted to look at it. The employees never checked on him.
“The watch?” Soobin asked, walking up.
“Yeah.” Yeonjun replied.
“Can he see this?” Soobin called to an employee.
“Oh…Certainly,” the employee said. They unlocked the case and set the watch out on a tray. “This is a 1945 Movado.” the employee said.
“It’s kinda dirty,” Soobin commented. The hinges in the band links, the rounding of the face, all encroached with a soft dusty brown like speckled sand on platinum.
“That's patina.” Yeonjun declared, picking up the watch. He smoothed over the face with his thumb. “...is it natural?” He asked.
“It is.” The employee replied.
“Patina?” Soobin asked.
“It’s the rust-looking stuff. The way it oxidizes,” Yeonjun explained. He looked at it for a bit. Felt the strap between his fingers. The little price tag on the display tray read, “500.000”.
“That’s right.” The employee said, a tone of surprise in her voice. Yeonjun’s eyes darted up at her. He could sense the curiosity and judgment.
“Sorry, I don't know much about watches,” Soobin began.
“That’s alright. Your friend has a good eye.” The employee said. “Patina doesn't always end up looking good. When it does, it adds value.”
Soobin looked at Yeonjun. Holding an expensive, tainted timepiece. Something charming about it.
“Thanks.” Yeonjun said, putting the watch back. He wandered off.
They made it to a cafe on the main road. The place everyone went to was across the street. Anthracite, with its concrete exterior and trendy, bare decor. But the place Soobin chose was smaller, baked goods and warm wood. Tiny tables lined against the window.
“Iced Americano!” The barista called out. Yeonjun retrieved his drink.
“Do you do this with friends?” Soobin asked.
“Not since middle school.” Yeonjun replied.
“Oh, is it boring?” Soobin asked.
“No.” Yeonjun said. He took a sip of his coffee. “...I actually like shopping,” he admitted. He knew immediately that he shouldn't have, “I’m just too busy and too broke.”
“I get that. Well, the busy part.” Soobin commented.
“You in school?”
“Yeah, SNU.”
“Oh.” Yeonjun said. An actual nerd at a top university. He really had no business messing around in the streets. “That’s like two hours away….You came all that way?”
“Well I’m from here so. I come back most weekends.” Soobin said, “What about you? Are you from here?”
“Seoul, yeah.” Yeonjun said. “But another area. I used to come to this neighborhood. The metro lets you off right next to this bridge. I think they replaced the whole thing with a walking path or a park but...”
“It used to be empty, right? Kids used to go there and put up graffiti.” Soobin completed. Yeonjun looked over in surprise.
“I did that once or twice.” Yeonjun said.
“What? No way. Is it still there?” Soobin asked excitedly.
“I checked a few years ago and they painted over it.” Yeonjun said.
“You should tag it again.” Soobin said.
Yeonjun scoffed, “I haven’t done that in years.”
“If you do, could I see?” Soobin asked.
“Sure,” Yeonjun laughed. “You know that's illegal, right.”
“Yeah…?” Soobin replied.
Yeonjun furrowed his brow with an incredulous chuckle. He took a sip of his drink. Rich kids and rule-breaking.
“Is it hard? Using spray paint.” Soobin asked.
“Sort of. The environment, yeah. That it's vertical, it's dark. And homeless people always wandered around the station.” Yeonjun said.
“There was one guy, not the same station, but he’d wander around Itaewon and Hannam in the summer. He kept saying he was American.” Soobin reminisced.
“Oh my god, that guy!” Yeonjun replied with an exhausted drawl, “And he was speaking Korean the whole time so it’s like, dude why are you saying that? You look Korean, you’re speaking Korean.” Yeonjun groaned.
Soobin nodded with a bright smile, “That was him.”
Yeonjun choked up a laugh.The shared memory melted into dread. Maybe it shouldn’t have been a shock that they spent their youth in the same place. Everyone of a certain age wandered the same parts of the city. Still, it wasn’t what Yeonjun wanted. He expected this all to drag. That it would be awkward and finally the glitz about Soobin would fall away. But Yeonjun was far from disillusioned. Soobin was attentive, engaging. This had been a gamble that went all the wrong ways.
The gate to the house opened on a driveway and courtyard. Soobin unlocked the front door with a code on the keypad. Soft floor lighting lit the entryway as they came in. They took off their shoes.
“My parents are gone for the weekend.” Soobin commented. Yeonjun wandered in with a look of subdued awe.
The first floor was open, connecting the living room, dining room, and kitchen. Granite countertops and low-profile crowning. High ceilings, minimal Scandinavian decor. Like some sort of Hollywood townhouse. The farthest wall was a bay window dining area, where the backyard and a valley of Hannam rooftops glistened in the failing daylight. The window grilles were a thin, industrial metal, like a greenhouse at twilight. There was more than one floor. Yeonjun knew Soobin was wealthy. But not this wealthy.
“Taking me home instead of a hotel,” Yeonjun began, trying to mask his nerves, “You move fast.” he teased.
“Should I have gotten a hotel?” Soobin blushed. He watched Yeonjun cross the room and toss his shoulder bag on the kitchen island. It felt surreal to see Yeonjun walking around his house.
“You tell me.” Yeonjun said, looking out at the view. “Are you going to do something I won't like?”
“I was just…gonna make us food and chill.” Soobin mumbled.
Yeonjun scoffed. “What are we having?”
Soobin opened the fridge. “Looks like they left some tortellini, salad…other stuff. We also have whatever’s in the pantry, chips, ramyeon, soup...Or we could order something.”
Yeonjun’s eyes lit up. “Ramyeon?” he chimed.
Soobin tilted his head, trying to suppress a smile. There were things about Yeonjun that just made him even more lovable. Those honest moments when his guard came down. “We can do that.”
Yeonjun was furiously typing on his phone when the ramyeon was done. Soobin slid servings across the kitchen island to the bar top. Got them soda from the fridge. Cheap instant noodles piled into an expensive-looking bowl with matte glaze.
“What's up?” Soobin asked, taking up his chopsticks. Yeonjun was still typing.
“Just…someone mad that I'm at your place.” Yeonjun said. He knew as soon as it came out of his mouth that he shouldn’t have said it.
“The guy you were kissing?” Soobin asked.
Yeonjun felt like every response he could give would be a trap. “...Yeah.” he replied.
Soobin stopped short of eating his food. He looked at Yeonjun. But their eyes wouldn’t meet. “Do you sleep with him?” Soobin asked.
“...I sleep with a lot of people.” Yeonjun placated. He took up his chopsticks and shoved noodles in his mouth. Tried to casually let the topic fade out. But Soobin wouldn’t let him.
“...How many of them break your rules?” Soobin asked.
Yeonjun chewed consciously. Considering whether or not to tell the truth. He tried to keep his guard up. But even if he wanted to keep his distance, Yeonjun couldn’t bring himself to lie. Not to someone like Soobin. Someone pure like that.
“You’d get the wrong idea, if I told you.” Yeonjun mumbled.
Soobin stood from his seat. Yeonjun turned at the sound, but it was already too late.
Soobin kissed him. Yeonjun’s heart fluttered. It was soft. He thought about resisting, but he couldn't. Soobin stole his lips desperately, worked his tongue in. Yeonjun shuddered. He felt it down to his toes. Spices and soda, that petrichor amber smell. Warm. Fizzy. Melting away. Soobin kissed him over and over. Yeonjun fell in.
They came up for air and Yeonjun finally found his senses. Hanging on Soobin’s lips.
“Don’t do that again.” Yeonjun whispered.
“How much to break them?” Soobin said between soft gasps.
“You can't.” Yeonjun replied. Soobin lifted his gaze. Their eyes met.
“Does it feel good?” Soobin asked. His voice was low, velvety. “Do you…feel different about me?”
Yeonjun felt a pang in his chest. The look on Soobin’s face. Pulled apart by longing and principle. He could feel himself falling. But he wouldn't show it.
Yeonjun mumbled impatiently, “...Are you gonna fuck me or what?”
Soobin took him in the kitchen. The dishes skittered along the counter. Barely any time for prep, pants gathered at ankles. Soobin bent him over, slapped the inside of his thighs. Yeonjun’s legs staggered apart, heartbeat thrumming. Couldn’t see it coming. Hissed when it went in. Soobin fucked him rough. So intense that Yeonjun could barely hold himself up.
Some sort of switch flipped in Soobin. It was different, taking Yeonjun from behind. Something dirtier about it. Insides so tight, no matter how many times he got plowed. All the noises he made. His pretty back and the hair coiled at his neck, damp. It was just the act of taking him like that. No way to see each other. Their sounds echoed all the way to the front door. Fucking Yeonjun was like nothing else. It felt amazing.
Yeonjun’s back arched into it, pushing himself down on Soobin’s cock with every thrust. Soobin raked past that spot in a whole new way and Yeonjun’s head hung low, purring. Chasing his high. Swirling his hips. Soobin’s hands slid greedily across his hip bones. Then he gripped Yeonjun’s dick.
Yeonjun’s breath hitched. “Wha–?! Where’re you—” His words clipped out into a harsh moan.
Yeonjun panicked, feeling Soobin pump his dick. Still fucking him. Still ramming his ass. Yeonjun pressed himself into the counter, trying to get away. His knees gave out a bit. Soobin kept going. Yeonjun never came so much in his life. Dripping all over Soobin’s hand onto the floor.
And it wasn’t just once. They got off and Soobin was up minutes later. Yeonjun had only just finished eating when Soobin decided to fuck him again. This time on the dining table. No warning. There was a look in Soobin's eyes, like he couldn't be stopped. The tension could cut. Yeonjun took one look and he fell right in. They didn't need words. Mind blank from the second Soobin touched him. Yeonjun leaned back. Ass lined up on the edge, Soobin thrust right in. Carving inside over and over, holding him open, eyes locked. It was better when Yeonjun could see that face. Watching Soobin fuck into him, getting off on it. So intense. Yeonjun thought about Soobin kissing him. How Soobin’s cock would feel if they fucked raw. Throbbing. No protection. Sticky inside with Soobin’s cum. To do it all night like that. Get bred by him. Bred by Soobin. Yeonjun got off again, purring and whimpering with desperate fantasies. Wracked with guilt. Soobin came a bit after that.
But then Soobin wanted it again. Yeonjun was still lying there, scrolling his phone. He jolted up in shock, feeling Soobin’s hands on his legs. No way he was hard again. No way. Yeonjun couldn’t even hold himself up anymore. Laying on his side, looking at his murky reflection in the window while Soobin opened his legs.
“...again?~” Yeonjun whined, desperately.
Soobin didn't respond, in a trance. Yeonjun felt a tinge of fear. It turned him on.
Soobin slammed him. Yeonjun cried out. He dropped his phone at his side. Soobin fixated on Yeonjun. Those plump lips hanging open. Long, lewd sounds slurring into the next beat. Sinking in. Soobin wanted to kiss him. It wasn't fair.
Soobin gripped Yeonjun's thigh, settled in and fucked him sideways. Yeonjun moaned. Sensitive. Somehow in all of it, holding Soobin’s hand. Cock raking his insides. So slow and close. Deep and disarming. Yeonjun felt it even more like that. When it was intimate. All wrong. Fingers intertwined while Soobin curled around him. While Soobin kissed his ear and gasped for air. It wasn't right to fuck like that. Like they belonged to each other. They barely knew one another. Yeonjun bit his lip, faded. Eyes rolled back a bit. Everything in his body hummed. They came at the same time.
Yeonjun's legs slid down over the table ledge. Soobin collapsed. Another condom unstuck. When did they even make time for it? Yeonjun barely remembered anything. Out of breath.
He felt too weak to stand under a shower, so Yeonjun took a bath. Dragged himself along as Soobin led him to the bathroom. Slick with his own cum, all the way down his legs.
“Help yourself to anything.” Soobin said, setting out a towel from the linen closet.
The bathroom was big and beautiful with heated, matte concrete floors. Soobin was on his way out when Yeonjun called to him.
“Oh, can you get my bag?” Yeonjun asked.
“Yeah,” Soobin replied. He paused in the doorway, looking a bit like a velcro pup with sad eyes. “Do you need anything else? Are you…You’re okay, right?” Soobin began.
Yeonjun chuckled with a weary smile. He leaned against the bathroom sink for dear life. “I bet girls can’t take you, can they? You fucked the shit out of me.” Yeonjun said.
Soobin blushed, “Sorry.”
“Don’t apologize.” Yeonjun said, getting a bit flustered, “I'm not complaining.” He’d never say that he loved it.
When Soobin was gone, Yeonjun eased himself into the bath. He was so weak when he bent his legs that he almost fell in. They had expensive bath salts and melts. He poured the white powder into the water curiously, watched the little tab of bath melt float around like a stick of butter in a pan. Naked kneecaps poking out from the water. A deep pedestal tub that made a grown man feel like a baby. The water was a faint white shade, but it smelled fresh and natural, the way the seasons change, or the scent of the air, earthy and brisk in the autumn. Yeonjun submerged himself. Red dye trickled down the length of his back when he came up. He probably looked like a drowned alley cat. Gruff and out-of-place in a luxury bath. A brief moment of adorable bliss while he soaked. Most apartments only ever had showers. He hadn't had a bath in so long. Yeonjun liked it.
Dressed down to sweats and a T-shirt, a towel around his neck, Yeonjun wandered downstairs. He was fluffing up damp hair, looking around. Finally he found Soobin outside on the porch.
It was a balmy autumn night. The smell of a storm coming on. The porch had a swanky outdoor couch set. Eucalyptus and teak. A long, shallow fire pit over glass rocks. The light from the house cast long shadows over the yard.
“You mind?” Yeonjun asked, flashing a pack of cloves from inside his sweats.
Soobin had never seen him fresh out of the shower like that. He stared for a second before he snapped out of it, “Go ahead.”
Yeonjun lit a cigarette and wandered out a bit. He was barefoot. Hadn't felt real grass under his feet in a long time. His sweats dragged through the blades. He looked up at the sky, but he could only make out a small moon. The city lights outshined the stars.
“It’s a nice view.” Yeonjun called back. He took a drag of his cigarette and exhaled a long cloud. “Pretty.” He commented.
“Yeah.” Soobin replied, staring at Yeonjun. Silhouetted in the glow of vintage street lights and gnarled telephone lines. Light from skyscrapers glistening against damp skin and dewy hair.
“I got you something.” Soobin said, walking up.
Yeonjun looked down at a small, long box in Soobin’s hand. “What is it?” Yeonjun mumbled through his cig.
Yeonjun took the clove from his mouth, steading the box against his hip. Pulling at the ribbon, cigarette between his two fingers. Aligned at the small of his waist. Soobin thought he was so striking.
Inside was a watch. Yeonjun stared at it, ash gathering and smoke curling like a snake around the view.
“The watch from the store?” Yeonjun said with an incredulous shake of his head, “Are you crazy?”
“You liked it,” Soobin said.
“You said it was dirty.” Yeonjun mumbled.
“That's what makes it pretty.” Soobin declared. Yeonjun looked up and when their eyes met, he blushed and looked away.
“I won't take this.” Yeonjun said.
“What–”
“Not that one,” Yeonjun said, interrupting Soobin’s protest, “Give me this one.” He took Soobin’s wrist, pulled back the sleeve, where a watch slinked down from beneath the cuff.
“My watch?” Soobin asked.
Yeonjun turned red. His nerves were getting the better of him. Soobin took it off without hesitation. It was just a watch. Yeonjun gazed down as Soobin put it on him. Somehow it felt like more than that.
“You’ll think of me when you look at it?” Soobin said bashfully.
“That’s not why. Yours is more expensive.” Yeonjun deflected. But he could hear his heartbeat in his ears. Soobin finished fastening the watch. The metal was still warm from his skin.
“Don’t do it with anyone else.” Soobin said suddenly.
“Huh?” Yeonjun looked up. They were too close.
“Can I?” Soobin mumbled cryptically. Couldn't ask to date, Yeonjun didn't do that. Could only disguise it behind a transaction. Struggling to overcome his nerves, “--Have you like this…exclusively.”
Yeonjun dropped his cigarette in the grass. Disarmed in an instant. He masked it with a laugh, “You couldn't afford it.”
“I think I can.” Soobin said. His confidence never extended far beyond money.
Yeonjun scoffed, “You can fuck me, but you can't cuff me.”
They could barely look at each other. No idea how it got this far so fast. Hot ash burning out in the grass.
“I know you feel it too.” Soobin whispered.
Yeonjun's heart ached. “You get a rush with me and that confuses you.” Yeonjun declared.
“So you do feel it.” Soobin reasoned.
“Don't make it personal.” Yeonjun said, “Trust me, when you get bored, you don't want strings attached.”
“I won't get bored.”
“You will.”
“Keep my watch.” Soobin said, tracing Yeonjun's wrist gently. “Then I'll have all the time in the world to convince you.”
Yeonjun rolled his eyes, “So corny.”
“You're the one who asked for it.” Soobin said.
Back inside, Soobin showed Yeonjun upstairs. Past a den of soft sectionals and a tall balcony, the floor split into two halls. Down the right side, the first door opened to a sizeable bedroom. Soobin flicked the light on. It was made up like a luxury hotel with the fluffiest white linens and a wooden bedframe.
“This is your room,” Soobin said.
“My room?” Yeonjun repeated.
“Well, the guest room.” Soobin clarified.
Yeonjun gave a teasing smile, “You paid 3 mil for me to stay in my own room?”
“I...” Soobin faltered again. Blushing as he spoke, “...Didn't know if you wanted to sleep.”
“Take me to your room.” Yeonjun ordered.
They went one door down. Soobin’s bedroom was low-lit by one lamp. Black textured walls with a low bedframe that hugged the floor. There were clothes in little piles, textbooks and paperbacks piled on the floor. The bed was the only thing made up and tidy. White sheets and four pillows.
“It’s not super neat…Sorry.” Soobin mumbled.
Yeonjun wandered in, noticing the PC at Soobin's desk. The gamer chair, headphones. A random anime figurine on his dresser.
“You really are a nerd.” Yeonjun said with an affectionate grin.
“Yeah…I like games and stuff.” Soobin said. Rigid, mildly panicking. Yeonjun was in his room.
Nothing rational went through Yeonjun’s head. Surrounded by Soobin’s scent. The door shut.
“I like games too.” Yeonjun said. “Wanna play with me?” he teased.
Soobin gulped. “Like…multiplayer?”
“Like 1 v 1.” Yeonjun said.
He yanked Soobin by the hem of his shirt and pushed him onto the bed. Forced Soobin to sit, legs dangling over. The mattress sank down. Yeonjun straddled him.
Soobin’s breath hitched, didn't even need to be touched to get up.
“I'm not sleeping. And neither are you.” Yeonjun whispered in his ear.
He wanted it bad. To use Soobin like a toy. To get off in his bed. So consumed by unholy thoughts. So horny, just from the scent of his cologne.
Yeonjun felt his body shift. Remembering the shape. It all blurred together. Condom in a nightstand. Slick and stuck. Inside the jagged breadth of an exhale, mind muddled. Fucking obsessed with it. Riding Soobin. The creak of the bed frame. Rough hands pinning ass to hips. The foul, hard rhythm of his cock. Yeonjun rode it out. So much hotter at night. So much hotter when he could hold Soobin down, look into his eyes. Balmy skin, slathered. Pushing himself down on Soobin’s cock. Working hard for it. Using it good. A breathless laugh when Soobin bucked under him hard. That grip on his ass. Soobin’s wolfish stare when he chased it. Body howling. Tension. When did it stop, when did another round start? Yeonjun could’t recall.
They’d started with clothes on, but ended up with nothing on. Didn’t do it just once. Soobin was different like that. In the dark. His body was toned. Not much of a bookworm when he got naked. Yeonjun couldn’t take the sight of him. Crazy, naturally sexy. Sliding another condom on. Yeonjun never thought he could like it vanilla. Head on Soobin’s pillow. Climbing under the sheets. Wearing Soobin’s watch, wearing his warmth, wearing him.
Soobin put it in again. Yeonjun’s toes curled. The tip of Soobin’s cock was the best part. The way it carved in for the curve. It felt so wrong. In his room, like a couple. They weren’t fixed like that. They weren’t dating. Going at it like bunnies all night.
Soobin grinded deep. Kneading that spot. Sweat dripping and mixing all over Yeonjun’s skin. Yeonjun could barely remember how to breathe, flush all over, unfocused foxy eyes, Plump lips falling open. Soobin fixated on them. Dewy, sweet sounds. Remembering the taste of cloves and spices. Not fair.
Soobin kissed him.
“Mhnhg–?!” Yeonjun cried inaudibly into Soobin’s mouth. Soobin picked up the pace. Ramming him while they were still kissing. Yeonjun ran out of breath. He surfaced from the kiss seeing stars, so overwhelmed. Gasping. Full of indistinct rage. Dick spilling over with precum. Wires crossed.
Soobin tried to kiss him again. Yeonjun put his fingers on his lips. “Don’t~” Yeonjun panted. Lewd voice, like he was begging. Soobin licked his hand. Wet, hot tongue. Yeonjun’s heart raced. Bars of faded moonlight from the window blinds. Streaked across Soobin's face, across his eyes. Alluring. Fingers in mouth. Fucking him slow. Yeonjun whimpered. Soobin was way too hot. Light catching and twinkling in the silver of that watch. Yeonjun thought at that moment, staring at the metal around his wrist, that maybe he was already cuffed.
Soobin took Yeonjun’s hand away. Fingers intertwined. Resistance and rage, ensnared by pleasure.
Soobin kissed Yeonjun’s neck instead. Tongue sliding down. Then he inhaled the skin. Yeonjun jumped when he felt a pinch, but it was too late. “Ngh-Wha–!?” Yeonjun felt a pang of dread. It left a dark mark. Narrowing into anger again. A rush of guilt that felt so good. His mind went blank.
Soobin marked him again and again. Pushing his cock in while his lips bruised skin. Pulling it out with a lick for good measure. Traveling all over. Yeonjun couldn't even fight it. Pleasure heightened by pain. Getting thoroughly ruined. His whole body. When Soobin was fucking him, everything blurred together. Then suddenly, Soobin bit him. Yeonjun gasped. Felt himself overflow a bit. It was too good to stop.
Yeonjun wrapped his legs around, holding hands. Soobin was right there with him. Close. Claimed. Yeonjun wished the condom wasn’t there. Wanted Soobin to cum inside. A longing that throbbed like the marks on his skin. Delirious. Yeonjun cried out. Twitching and gushing. Hearing Soobin’s voice at his ear, desperate, unraveling, “…yeonjun.” They came at the same time.
The next morning, Yeonjun awoke to the rudest, deepest ache in his bones. Yeonjun rolled over and it felt like he was going to die. Totally destroyed. How long had it been since he had sex properly in a bed like that? How many times did they end up doing it? 8? 10? In one night? Ridiculous. Yeonjun’s hips hurt so much. Covered in hickies and bites. Filled with satisfaction and guilt.
Soobin was lying next to him, practically glowing. His hair was pushed back from his face while he scrolled his phone.
“Hey,” Soobin said. He looked so good it was crazy.
Yeonjun sat up. Tried to act casual about it.
Soobin sat up too. Hard to know what to say or do, now that time was up. Now that Yeonjun was off the clock.
“Where are my clothes?” Yeonjun asked groggily.
“Uh, over here I think.” Soobin said, leaning over the foot of the bed. The view of Soobin’s bare back in the sun. The light washing over the contour of his body. A halo of frizz when he sat back up. Soft, puckered dimples and downcast lashes. Yeonjun stared until Soobin looked. Then his eyes darted away.
Soobin pulled up a stack of Yeonjun’s clothes. Everything was dirtied from the night before. Yeonjun could barely recall how it got that way. That was the only change of clothes he’d brought.
“I’ll take something from here,” Yeonjun said, trying to get up. He failed to stand and fell back.
Soobin shot up. “Are you okay?”
“This is what happens when you ruin my ass,” Yeonjun complained with an annoyed, embarrassed groan. His lips had the roundest pout.
“Don’t get up.” Soobin said. He stood, threw his pants on. Riffled through his dresser and found something for Yeonjun to wear.
“You don’t have to go right away,” Soobin said. “No one’s here today. I don’t have class until later either.”
“I can’t stay.” Yeonjun said. He threw on Soobin’s shirt, his boxers. Steadied his hand against the nightstand while he stood up. Soobin couldn’t help but get a rush at the sight of Yeonjun in his clothes. Soft thighs disappearing into his sweats.
Soobin went to him. This concerned look on his face. Yeonjun shooed him away. Soobin stayed by his side, looming like a huge puppy. Yeonjun shuffled, but Soobin could tell it was too soon, slipping his hand around Yeonjun’s waist.
“Don’t baby me.” Yeonjun complained.
“What am I supposed to do?” Soobin said, “Not help you?” That affectionate look in his eyes, his scent. There it was again. That disarming gravity about him. Yeonjun reluctantly complied. They started walking down the stairs.
“...No hickies and stuff,” Yeonjun announced suddenly, “It’s against the rules.”
“You can’t add rules,” Soobin scoffed.
“I can do whatever I want.” Yeonjun said.
“Is that because you like it?” Soobin asked.
Yeonjun’s breath caught in his throat. “It makes me want to punch you.” He hastily rebuffed.
Soobin laughed. “ok, ok.”
Yeonjun was dropped off by a car at his apartment. Wearing a shirt and pants a half size too big. He sat in his apartment. The smallest moment of inertia led dirty thoughts to run wild in his head. Haunting. Every time he was alone, Yeonjun thought about it. Sunday with Soobin.
Beomgyu had just wandered in through the front door. He saw Yeonjun sitting there, oversized black t-shirt that he’d never seen before.
“You’re back.” Beomgyu said.
“Yeah,” Yeonjun replied, a bit cagey.
“No report for me?” Beomgyu said with a little laugh.
“He’s good.” Yeonjun said, “Pays a lot too.”
“Good enough for you to go to his place.” Beomgyu mumbled.
“...Can we not?”
“I’m just saying. You know how bad that could have been.”
“Have you seen him? He’s a fucking dweeb.” Yeonjun argued.
“Still.” Beomgu insisted.
“Yeah, it was reckless. But I’m fine. Just like I told you.” Yeonjun said.
“...You like him. It’s messing you up.” Beomgyu said, coming closer.
“Whatever.” Yeonjun mumbled, blushing.
Beomgyu peered over Yeonjun, lounging on the thin mattress. Neck and collarbone littered with hickies like stars.
“I remember those games.” Beomgyu muttered, eyeing the marks all over Yeonjun’s skin with a smile, “I bet he’s mad he can’t kiss you.”
“Yeah.”