After their time together at the Dolphin Lagoon, Jongin starts making a habit of coming in to visit Kyungsoo in the giftshop.

 

The first time it happened, Kyungsoo admits he was more than surprised, especially when Jongin walked in with his towel dried hair and swim trunks. Apparently he had just finished a show with the dolphins and said he just felt like coming to see Kyungsoo. 

 

Of course, Kyungsoo panicked at the dashing smile on Jongin’s face and blurted out a rather rude ‘don’t you have fish to feed’, rather than something normal like ‘hey’ or ‘what’s up?’.

 

Kyungsoo felt horrible when he saw Jongin’s smile immediately falter, but that still didn’t seem to deter the other man from continuing to visit Kyungsoo during his off time.

 

At some point Kyungsoo stops questioning it because the more he thinks, the less he actually thinks . He ends up saying stupid things. Really stupid things. As if he hasn’t embarrassed himself in front of Jongin enough. He doesn’t need to add more to the already piling mount of awkwardness. 

 

And the moment he stops questioning it, he realizes that he actually really enjoys having Jongin around. That maybe there is a lot more to him than just the sweet guy with a killer body wrapped in neoprene. He has to admit, he likes his company, more than he likes staring at him. And that truly says something.

 

During those many visits, Kyungsoo gets to learn a lot about the dolphin trainer. Like, that he likes Nesquik more than he does any caffeine-based drink. Kyungsoo thinks that’s adorable, especially when he mentions how often he drinks it with his lunches every day. He also likes reading. Surprisingly, mystery novels with well developed plot lines, some of which he explained in great detail upon Kyungsoo’s curious gaze. 

 

Good, Kyungsoo thinks to himself as Jongin talks on and on. He’s got layers. Just like an onion. Kyungsoo likes onions. 

 

He almost smacks himself at that train of thought. Jongin’s out there looking like a Greek descended from Olympus, reading existentialism novels, and Kyungsoo makes Shrek references. He’s not worthy of him . 

 

But Jongin keeps returning to the gift shop, even if the dolphin lagoon is all the way across the zoo. And it’s because of this that Kyungsoo finds himself falling deeper and harder with every passing day upon the sight of this golden Apollo gracing the darkest pit of the park with his bright eyes and warm smile.

 

It doesn’t help Jongin is so attentive, either.

 

It seems that every word Kyungsoo is able to stutter out, Jongin hangs on to. His gaze is always intense too, like he really wants to pay attention to whatever Kyungsoo is talking about, even if he’s just spouting nonsense about his day so far or having to deal with the angry moms complaining about prices in the store.  

 

It’s sweet how Jongin engages him in such meaningless conversations, right up until he has to get back to the lagoon. Some days he stays as long as possible, just waving his hand at Kyungsoo when he points out the time and saying a short ‘I can just run there. I’ll be fine.’

 

Kyungsoo is always touched but also can’t help to think this must be why Jongin is in such good shape. Man, Kyungsoo really needs to hit the gym.

 

Other than meeting during Jongin’s break, they really don’t have time to see each other. Their hours clash, so it makes it nearly impossible. It disappoints Kyungsoo that he’s unable to at least see him casually, and mentally tells himself maybe he should just work up the courage to ask to see Jongin outside of work.

 

However, an opportunity arises a couple weeks after.

 

“I highly recommend it,” Jongin says, eyes shining. “It’s a really really good book. If you want, I can bring in my copy and let you borrow it.”

 

Kyungsoo nods, smiling as he leans against the counter. “The shop is randomly slow, so I’d love that.”

 

Jongin opens his mouth to say something, but suddenly, the doors are slammed open.

 

Both of them whip around, blinking in confusion when they see Minseok stomping in, looking frazzled as ever. “What are you two doing?” he demands.

 

Jongin opens and closes his mouth, seemingly stunned so Kyungsoo answers for him.

 

“Jongin’s on break. I’m just managing the shop-”

 

“Please for the love of God, just close the shop for the day and go feed the goddamn giraffes. The caretaker called in sick and I have a sick rhino on my hands.” Minseok ushers the two of them out of the shop before they can even agree, using his many keys to lock the shop.

 

Sehun, who happens to be walking by and overheard the whole commotion, gives the head veterinarian a confused look. “Wait, are you sure-”

 

Minseok jumps in his golf cart, ignoring the tour guide and taking off down the walkways of the zoo.

 

Sehun snorts, yelling after Minseok. “Out of all of the people working here, you asked the shortest one to feed the giraffes!”

 

With a golf cart comes responsibility, Kyungsoo supposes as he watches Minseok disappearing behind the horizon at an obnoxious speed. 

 

With a golf cart comes freedom as well. 

 

Maybe Kyungsoo should get one of these too. 

 

Besides, it would make reaching the dolphin lagoon on the other side of the park much easier. Then again, if he doesn’t, maybe he’ll have beautifully sculpted thighs like Jongin.

 

Kyungsoo glances at the man in question, seeing him playfully try to hit Sehun for the short comment on Kyungsoo's behalf. He smiles, gently pressing a hand to his shoulder. “Leave him be. I’ll get him back later. Besides, we have some hungry giraffes waiting for us.

 

Jongin chuckles, especially when Sehun throws them a peace sign and walks away. “You’re right. Do you know where we have to go?”

 

Kyungsoo blinks, a thought occuring to him. “Actually… I’ve only ever been to the Dolphin Lagoon. I’ve never seen the rest of the park.”

 

Jongin’s eyebrows raise in surprise. “Wait, are you serious? Not even as a kid?”

 

He shakes his head, shrugging. “My family never thought about taking me, so I really never got to visit. I only applied for a job here because my parents told me to.”

 

“Well,” Jongin says, a determined glint in his eyes as he leads Kyungsoo to the African section of the zoo. “We’ll have to fix that one day.”

 

Kyungsoo is rendered a little speechless at that, trying to stop thinking about his heart skipping a beat at the mischievous smile Jongin sends him. He clears his throat as they approach the employee entrance to the giraffe pen. “You know… I’m not sure why Minseok asked me to do this. Don’t I need a zoology degree or something?”

 

Jongin laughs, leading Kyungsoo to the sink where they wash their hands. “Yeah, technically you should be an actual caretaker, but he likes you. Plus that’s probably why he wanted me to come along too. I’m technically allowed to do it.” 

 

Kyungsoo hums. “He probably just wanted me to be here so I make sure you don’t accidentally feed the giraffes fish.”

 

Jongin laughs loudly, like a seal, and it makes Kyungsoo feel all warm. Kyungsoo follows along as Jongin prepares the food in multiple buckets, squinting at the amount of lettuce in the mixture of twig-like foods and grains. Jongin doesn’t even hesitate to use his own hand to make sure it’s properly mixed, smiling up at Kyungsoo when he just stands there awkwardly.

 

“You could help, you know,” Jongin says teasingly.

 

Kyungsoo stiffens. “Right. Sorry. I was just thrown off by the amount of food you’re bringing out.”

 

Jongin hums as they work together. “Each giraffe eats about seventy-five pounds a day. I saw on the log another caretaker filled out that they already ate their breakfast, so this is only a little bit to them. Like a snack.”

 

“Wait, are you serious? A day ?!” Kyungsoo blinks, not even thinking about his next words. “I want to be a giraffe.”

 

Jongin snorts, throwing a lettuce leaf at him. “If you want to basically eat just salad and nuts everyday, then go for it.”

 

Kyungsoo makes a disgruntled face, the sole thought of giving up on meat and cheese physically hurting his soul. He follows Jongin’s lead and grabbing a couple of the buckets and heading for the door. “Yeah, nevermind. Count me out. I’d rather be like your dolphins and eat fish every day for the rest of my life.”

 

Jongin’s smile hasn’t left his face. “Don’t knock it until you try it.”

 

Kyungsoo just shrugs, and watches the dolphin trainer push the wooden door to an observation deck. He eyes the sign there that indicates that it’s meant only for caretakers to use, a little giddy he’s able to be here. He’s not a big animal person, but it’s a little surreal he’s able to do this.

 

Kyungsoo eyes the little wooden porch, and the way Jongin sets down the buckets on the inner side of the fence. He, too, leaves down the buckets and curiously blinks towards Jongin who simply stands there, eyes scanning the green fields in front of them. 

 

He doesn’t even need to call the animals over. As soon as the giraffes spot them, they slowly start moving towards them. It’s like they know that seeing people on that little observation deck means delicious treats, so they waste no time in gracefully walking over. 

 

Kyungsoo can’t stop the grin from spreading on his lips, especially when the baby giraffe seems to take a lot of interest in them, walking ahead of its parents.

 

“Hey there, little one,” Jongin sing-songs, the baby immediately going to him and nosing him excitedly.

 

“Jongin, this baby is literally 3 meters tall.” Kyungsoo eyes the baby, how it keeps nosing at Jongin’s hair.

 

Jongin chuckles breathlessly, eyes shining mischievously as he points in front of Kyungsoo. “Compared to his parents?”

 

Kyungsoo looks, jumping back a little in shock when he’s suddenly greeted by a face full of two adult giraffes. They’re sniffing at him, eyes a little blank but they’re definitely determined when they spot the bucket behind him. “Oh my god.”

 

He hears Jongin’s merry laugh, and Kyungsoo observes how he grabs handfuls of the food and offers it to the baby. Well, that looks safer than taking pictures at the dolphin lagoon, he thinks to himself. He feels excitement flowing through his veins, doing the same but getting a look of horror when he sees the two giraffes in front of him stick out their tongues.

 

Oh god .

 

There’s going to be so much giraffe spit on him by the end of this.

 

One of the animals practically sticks its face in his hands, it tugging at the lettuce. Kyungsoo tries not to outwardly cringe when the wet tongue keeps brushing against his skin, but he can forget about it the moment the other giraffe noses him impatiently as if pouting. He giggles breathlessly, lightly pushing away it’s nose. 

 

“You’ll get your turn,” he says softly, grabbing another handful of food and allowing it to eat. He’s so entranced by the animals in front of him, he almost forgets Jongin is there next to him.

 

He subtly glances at Jongin, heart leaping in his chest when he realizes Jongin is just standing there, watching him with a warm smile. The baby continues eating from his hands, but he doesn’t seem to pay it much mind. “Cute,” he says quietly, and Kyungsoo tries to convince himself he’s referring to the animals. He could swear he feels his face becoming warmer with a blush that starts spreading under his skin. 

 

Kyungsoo clears his throat. “So do caretakers take care of multiple animals like this often?”

 

Jongin continues staring, finding Kyungsoo’s awkward fidgeting amusing. “Not usually. The animals all grow up here at the zoo with specific people, so we try to give them that sense of familiarity. Caretakers become like their family, depending on the animals.”

 

There is a beat of silence, in which Jongin shrugs and hands yet another lettuce leaf to the baby giraffe. 

 

“Then again, they see hundreds of tourists every day. They’re used to other people.”

 

Kyungsoo nods. “That makes sense.”

 

There is a small silence, and there’s a little tension in the atmosphere between them after that. It’s not a bad one per say, but Kyungsoo can tell Jongin wants to ask something because he starts to fidget too.

 

Jongin reaches back for more food, breaking his gaze away from Kyungsoo for the first time as if he’s shy. His voice is hesitant when he speaks.

 

“So, you haven’t been back to the lagoon in a while.” Kyungsoo’s breath hitches, his stomach doing flips. Jongin gives him a curious look. “Is there a reason why?”

 

Kyungsoo swallows harshly, willing himself to do more than just stand there and blink at the other man. “I- uh…”

 

Jongin smiles a little. “It’s not that big of a deal, Kyungsoo. You don’t have to look so scared.”

 

Kyungsoo laughs awkwardly, scratching the back of his neck and cringing when he realizes his hand is still covered in giraffe spit. 

 

“No! It’s just…” Kyungsoo pauses, trying to get his thoughts together. “I wanted to. I really did, but our schedules just don’t line up, I guess. I work during all your shows, so I haven’t been able to come.”

 

The dolphin trainer looks a little happy at that, him biting his lip and looking away shyly. Oh god, that bashful smile is so so cute. Kyungsoo’s heart is going to give out on him at this rate. 

 

Jongin looks at the baby in front of him fondly, mumbling. “I still stuck around every day to see if you’d show up.”

 

Kyungsoo freezes, unsure if he heard correctly. 

 

There are always scenes in those cheesy romances Kyungsoo’s mother always fawns about. Moments where the crush finally admits to the main character that they indeed like them back, and both are disgustingly sweet together afterwards. 

 

For Kyungsoo, he realizes this is his cheesy moment. Only the one thing disgustingly sweet about this, is the hungry giraffes salivating all over his hands. But Kyungsoo is able to ignore that.

 

Especially with the way Jongin smiles at him with hope shining in his eyes, his gaze so deep and warm and Kyungsoo feels like swooning. 

 

Kyungsoo swallows and somehow manages to keep it somewhat together, unable to stop the stupid grin from spreading on his face. “You waited for me?”

 

Jongin nods, wiping his hands on his swim trunks. He fully faces Kyungsoo now, eyes bright. “What would you say to meeting up on our day off?”

 

“Y-Yeah, that would be great. What days do you have off?”

 

“Doesn’t matter,” Jongin shakes his head. “I can trade shows with my coworkers. What day are you free?”

 

Kyungsoo’s heart is racing at this point, and he struggles to think properly. “Uh… It’s usually very slow on Mondays so I have the day off. Wendy covers the entire shift at the gift shop so...”

 

Jongin thinks, like he’s mentally rearranging his schedule. He nods though, lightly clapping his hands together. “It’s a date then.”

 

A date.

 

A date with Kim Jongin.

 

Kyungsoo’s brain short circuits, not even hearing Jongin talking about how he’ll make sure he has the day off too. He playfully waves his hand in front of Kyungsoo’s face though, giggling to himself when Kyungsoo comes to.

 

“So is that okay?” the dolphin trainer asks.

 

“Yeah!” Kyungsoo curses internally when his voice cracks. He can still hardly process any of this. “What did you want to do?”

 

“You said you’ve never been through the rest of the zoo right?” Jongin smiles, stepping a little closer in excitement. “Well, I can give you a tour. Without all the heaps of annoying tourists, of course.”

 

One would think Kyungsoo would be tired of the zoo, that the last place on earth he would ever want to be on his day off is at the zoo . But, God damn it, if Jongin wants to take him on a zoo date, then he’s going to be there.

 

A part of him is actually excited to share more moments like this together with the dolphin trainer. Seeing all of these beautiful animals and taking care of them together is special, and Kyungsoo finds it sweet how eager Jongin is to show him more of the zoo behind the scenes. 

 

“I’d love that, Jongin.” Kyungsoo bites his lip, looking up at the other man’s giddy expression.

 

Jongin eyes dart between his, expression as bright as the sun. “I’m glad.”

 

There’s silence between them again, only this time it makes Kyungsoo feel warm. They’re just standing there together, looking at each other like a couple of lovestruck idiots.

 

Kyungsoo is about to open his mouth, but there’s a high pitched whistling-like noise that causes them both to turn. The baby giraffe stomps in circles, looking up at the two of them expectantly.

 

“Was that?...”

 

“Yeah,” Jongin chuckles. “Giraffes can’t make many noises because they breathe a lot slower than normal animals. They don’t have enough air to do it.”

 

Kyungsoo makes a noise, watching the baby stomp again then stick out its tongue. Ah, Kyungsoo thinks. It’s still hungry.

 

Jongin doesn’t hesitate to take from the little food left over in the buckets. The baby looks satisfied as it chews on the lettuce. “That’s actually why they’re such slow moving animals. Their lungs are so big that they can’t run very well. They hyperventilate really easily.”

 

“Maybe I really am meant to be a giraffe.” Kyungsoo laughs along with Jongin, heart skipping a beat when Jongin playfully shoves him. Suddenly he feels something nipping at his hair, and he looks up to see both of the baby’s parents mouthing at it.

 

Kyungsoo releases an indignant squawk, trying to bat them away lightly. They’re stubborn though, and keep acting like they’re trying to eat each strand. 

 

The dolphin trainer gives a breathy laugh. “They rely on body language too.”

 

“Yeah?” Kyungsoo tries to back away, but they just nose at him again. He’s practically out of food, so they can’t still be hungry. “And what are they trying to tell me then?”

 

Jongin’s smile turns gentle, and his eyes fond. “I think they just really like you.”

 

Kyungsoo meets his eyes and he feels his heart melting.

 

Yes, there are currently two full sized giraffes eating his hair, and yes, his hand is covered in spit and bits of lettuce, but this is probably the best moment in his entire life. 

 

~

 

Kyungsoo tried convincing Jongin that it’s really fine, that he doesn’t have to walk back to the gift shop with him.

 

Jongin, however, disregards him completely and ends up returning to the little hut by the entrance of the park with him anyways. 

 

It’s unusually quiet, as in, there aren’t visitors coming in and out of the shop. And he certainly can’t hear children throwing tantrums, so that’s new. He narrows his eyes in suspicion as they walk closer to the door and he sees the ‘Closed’ sign hanging crookedly. 

 

“Guess there really was an emergency with that rhino if Minseok was so understaffed,” Jongin mumbles thoughtfully beside him, before shifting the ever slightest. Their shoulders touch and Kyungsoo looks towards him, almost getting blinded by that beautiful and excited smile. “He closed the shop.”

 

“Yeah,” Kyungsoo breathes out, absentmindedly nodding. He realizes, though, that Jongin is still looking at him with that excited smile just expanding on his pretty face. “So?”

 

“So that means you have the rest of the day off.” Kyungsoo only blinks when Jongin’s grin reaches its maximum blinding capacity. His eyebrow ticks suggestively, before he speaks up again. “I have a show in less than an hour. No conflicting schedules this time.”

 

Kyungsoo would be lying if he says he doesn’t feel the tinge of excitement warming his chest, especially at that rather pleased and satisfied look on Jongin’s face. 

 

“I-” 

 

“Great!” The dolphin trainer interrupts before he can even get two words out, giving him a quick wink. “I’ll see you there.” 

 

Kyungsoo’s brain is too slow to register the fact that Jongin is practically skipping away already. He doesn’t even get the chance to protest (not that he was going to) or even reply. 

 

He is simply left there, in front of the closed gift shop, in complete shock. 

 

Yet, he can’t help but smile as he watches Jongin’s tall, lean retreating figure, a spark waking up inside him and setting his entire body on fire. 

 

He raises a hand to put over his heart. He doesn’t think he can handle this much excitement in just one day. 

 

Even an hour later, as he’s settling into his seat in the bleachers of the Dolphin lagoon, he’s unbelievably happy. There are annoying kids and parents all around him, but everything is drowned out the moment he sees Jongin come on the small stage next to the dolphin’s tank. 

 

Jongin talks to the crowd, catching Kyungsoo’s eye and beaming at him like a ray of sunshine. 

 

When Jongin starts the show by making the dolphins wave at the crowd, Kyungsoo doesn’t miss the way the trainer throws yet another look towards him. He waves his hand lightly in his direction, and Kyungsoo tries to fight the grin that threatens to break out on his face. 

 

He miserably fails. 

 

~ 

 

Kyungsoo is awkwardly shifting in his spot, eyes wandering and shooting in all different directions anxiously. His fingers are fidgeting with the sleeves of his shirt, trying to straighten out invisible creases. 

 

He doesn’t think he’s spent this much time worrying over how he looks in a while. In fact, he doesn’t think he’s ever been this worried. Doesn’t his hair look weird? And his  T-shirt just won’t stay nicely tucked into his jeans. 

 

The sigh freezes in his throat, however, and all these thoughts evaporate at the sight of the man walking towards him from the employee entrance of the zoo. 

 

It’s a rare sight to see Jongin in clothes that aren’t clinging tightly to his body like his neoprene suits, and Kyungsoo now remembers why he doesn’t mind. 

 

He forgets how to breathe for a few seconds.

 

Jongin is wearing a black shirt, making his already wide shoulders look even stronger, and his lean chest even more defined. There’s a red beanie resting on his fluffy, for once not wet, hair. His hands are inside the pockets of his shorts, but when he finally spots Kyungsoo, he raises an arm to wave at him excitedly before hurrying forward. 

 

“Hey,” Jongin says breathlessly, eyes taking in every inch of Kyungsoo. He tries not to flush under the attention, especially when the dolphin trainer gets a boyish smile. “You look good.”

 

“Thanks,” Kyungsoo says quietly, swallowing harshly and looking at Jongin’s simple, but yet deadly outfit. “You do too.”

 

Jongin smirks, his shoulder bumping with Kyungsoo’s. “I have to impress this pretty boy I asked on a date. Think he’ll approve?”

 

Kyungsoo’s eyes drop down to the black shirt subtly showing the other man’s body line while still hanging loosely from his figure. The dolphin trainer pushes his fluffy bangs from his eyes, seeming to like the way Kyungsoo is outwardly checking him out.

 

He feels heat immediately go to his cheeks. 

 

Oh he definitely approves. But rather than giving Jongin the satisfaction, he just playfully shoves at him. “Come on, Dolphin Boy. I want to see some animals.”

 

Jongin chuckles lightly at the nickname and Kyungsoo heaves a sigh of relief as they actually do start moving. He isn’t sure what the appropriate distance to keep from one another is, but he opts for barely touching Jongin’s hand. He thinks they’re already there. 

 

A loud shriek from the direction of the gift shop resounds around them and they both turn their heads in time to see an exasperated mom dragging out a whining kid. Kyungsoo’s smirk is thoughtful and somewhat entertained. It’s nice to have the day off work, to not worry about collapsing stuffed animal pyramids or broken mugs. Poor Wendy. 

 

When Jongin asks him how he spent the morning, Kyungsoo sort of blanks. He doesn’t really want to admit that he changed three outfits and kept pacing around his room, throwing anxious looks towards the clock. Instead, he settles for an awkward chuckle and a shrug. I was just chilling , he lies. 

 

Jongin tells him then that he spent the entire morning thinking about their date and Kyungsoo chokes on the air he is breathing. 

 

After that, it seems to Kyungsoo that it’s somewhat easier to walk side by side with the dolphin trainer deeper into the park. Because he is actually convinced that Jongin really likes him. It makes his heart flutter in his chest. 

 

The zoo is huge. Much bigger than he had ever thought, and definitely much bigger than what he had always imagined after seeing the maps they give away in the gift shop. 

 

The first section he already knows - the giraffes are standing tall and he can see them leisurely strolling around the green fields leisurely. They seem unbothered by their presence, but the baby seems to perk up the moment he spots them. It gallops lightly to the edge of the enclosure, looking at them and stomping a little. There is a gap between the enclosure and the glass barrier where the public can view the animals, but Kyungsoo’s sure the baby giraffe would be trying to nose at them if it could.

 

Jongin giggles softly waving at it lightly as if it understands. “Sorry, little one. No snacks today.”

 

The baby giraffe looks at them like it’s offended, but both of them casually walk away after a few moments to see the other animals. Jongin pulls out a pamphlet as they walk along the path, coming up on the zebras.

 

The dolphin trainer shows him the map, explaining their African section is one of their largest. Jongin goes on to rattle off little facts here and there on the go from enclosure to enclosure, and Kyungsoo finds it helplessly adorable how passionate Jongin is about all of these animals.

 

“You really love them, don’t you?” Kyungsoo asks after Jongin explains that their elephants are expecting a baby girl some time soon. 

 

“Hm?”

 

“The animals. You just seem really happy when you’re around them.”

 

Jongin smiles, and Kyungsoo loves the blush that colors the other man’s cheeks. “Yeah. This is what I’ve always wanted to do.”

 

Kyungsoo smiles. “It’s really admirable.”

 

Jongin goes shy again, scratching at his neck like he’s nervous. “Just don’t get me talking about dolphins or whales. I’ll never shut up.”

 

“I wouldn’t mind,” Kyungsoo says cheekily, loving the way their shoulders continue to brush.

 

The rest of the African section went by quickly. They run into Jongdae as they were leaving the lion enclosure after hoping to get a sneak peek at the lion cubs the caretaker never shuts up about. Jongdae’s eyes narrow at them, ignoring Jongin’s sweet smile and questions about the cubs and asking Kyungsoo how the pamphlet is coming along. Jongdae only starts screeching when Kyungsoo says he can't wait to put Chanyeol’s snakes on the front page, eliciting a light giggle from Jongin beside him.

 

It's hard to escape from him after that, but eventually they did. 

 

And boy, is Kyungsoo glad they did because Jongin keeps brushing his hand against his. He has to hold his breath when the other man gently grabs it and laces their fingers together.

 

Kyungsoo’s heart is about to go into cardiac arrest and he’s pretty sure his face is as pink as the flamingos they’re approaching right now, but he could die of happiness in this moment.

 

They’re both quiet except for Jongin’s little random facts about the animals, or Kyungsoo’s random off hand comments that have Jongin laughing to himself, until they hear two familiar voices ahead of them.

 

Both he and Jongin let go of each other’s hands the moment Baekhyun and Sehun come into sight, and he prays to whatever God out there that they didn’t see.

 

Luckily, the two are leading a group together, so they’re busy speaking about the animals behind them.

 

Kyungsoo is ready to beeline around the small crowd gathered there, but Jongin catches his arm. “Hold on. I’ve always kind of wondered if these two actually do their job.”

 

Thinking about it, Kyungsoo has kind of always wondered the same thing. He cracks up though, especially when Jongin leads him to stand behind the crowd so they wouldn’t be seen.

 

“And today we have the caretaker to these lovely reptiles. He’s our very own Steve Irwin, ladies and gentlemen.” Baekhyun gestures to Chanyeol, who is awkwardly standing there with a rather large python around his neck. Kyungsoo’s got to admit, despite everything, this is actually kinda cool.

 

Chanyeol frowns at the tour guide before smiling at the audience of partly fascinated and mostly frightened third-graders. He gestures to one of his coworkers who is holding a couple smaller snakes. “Here are a couple common snakes you guys may be more used to. This one on the right is Tom and the other is our newest snake to the zoo. Her name is Applesauce.”

 

A couple of the third graders giggle, looking entirely less horrified now. Kyungsoo smiles at how they hesitantly approach the animals.

 

“But this guy,” Chanyeol grins widely, gesturing to Baekhyun while holding the python around his neck. “He’s the biggest snake in the entire park. His name’s Baekhyun.”

 

No one in the crowd laughs except Kyungsoo and Jongin, and Baekhyun’s eyes narrow at them immediately. Jongin is keeling over from laughter, and Kyungsoo is no better.

 

“Hey, you two in the back. I don’t think you paid for this tour.”

 

“Tours are free,” Sehun helpfully supplies.

 

“What do you know?” Baekhyun snaps, the two of them lightly bickering as their tour group asks Chanyeol all kinds of questions about the reptiles. The caretaker’s answers are, unlike him, actually helpful.

 

It’s then that Jongin and Kyungsoo see their chance to run away, both deciding that’s enough of those three interrupting their date. 

 

They take off down the walk ways, their laughs ringing throughout the park. Jongin’s hand is in his again, and they’re both out of breath by the time they run far enough away.

 

“You think they’re going to grill us tomorrow at lunch?”

 

“Absolutely,” Jongin says, eyes bright like he’s happy about that fact.

 

Kyungsoo is about to retort when Jongin suddenly gets a panicked look. The dolphin trainer pulls him to his chest, and it’s then that Kyungsoo hears a golf cart zoom by. He looks just in time to see Minseok screaming into his walkie talkie about goats on the loose in the petting zoo. He only has time to blink once  before the head veterinarian takes a sharp turn and disappears out of sight.

 

Kyungsoo’s mouth parts in surprise, not even realizing that Jongin’s still very much holding on to him tightly, pressing him close to his chest. Instead, he wonders what idiot left the fence of the goats open.

 

But then he feels fingers sliding down his arms and his breath hitches again when he looks up, his face way too close to Jongin’s. His eyes are even more beautiful when he actually looks into them. Jongin’s smile is soft and sort of dazed as Kyungsoo slowly moves back. His fingers don’t drop from his arms, just slide down until he’s holding his hands again.

 

Kyungsoo is fully aware that tomorrow is going to be a long, torturous day of their friends and co-workers not letting them live after finding out they were on a date, but even so, Kyungsoo doesn’t really mind. 

 

Because this right here, having Jongin so close, holding on to him, seeing his gentle smile - that’s all worth it. 

 

~ 

 

Walking around the park proves to be physically exhausting - from the tropical section that has Kyungsoo sweating buckets, to the monkeys sector - it takes a lot of time.

 

The hours pass quickly as they talk to each other casually, the conversations flowing naturally. Jongin talks about his favourite books. Kyungsoo talks about his hobbies. Jongin asks him about his family, Kyungsoo is curious about his friends. They talk about everything they can think of - school, music, movies, food. Their mutual complaints about Baekhyun.

 

Kyungsoo is having a great time, especially when Jongin drags him over to the food court and insists on getting them some churros. Kyungsoo is pretty sure he starts seeing hearts floating around Jongin’s head, like a halo. 

 

But time really does pass quickly, and with a little frown, Kyungsoo notices that the sun is starting to set. That they walk past some empty enclosures. That the caretakers are slowly starting to bring the animals back inside for the night. 

 

The park is closing soon, and Kyungsoo almost sighs. That means he’ll also have to part ways with Jongin soon. 

 

The other man must have seen the sudden shift in his expressions, because instead of joining his pity party, he tugs on his hand lightly, fingers squeezing around his briefly. He’s smiling mischievously, as if he’s ready to let Kyungsoo in on some grand secret. 

 

“Come on,” Jongin urges and starts leading him forward. 

 

Kyungsoo eyes him curiously, letting Jongin guide him towards the marine section of the zoo. Soon, the Dolphin Lagoon comes into sight, but Jongin is bringing them away from the main entrance. There’s a small door on the side, and Kyungsoo gets a confused look until Jongin cheekily whips out a 24 hour access card and waves it around.

 

“Perks of being a caretaker.” Jongin releases a little ‘ hehe ’ as he lets Kyungsoo in, making sure the door is locked before leading him through the hallways. He still hasn’t let go of his hand, much to Kyungsoo’s satisfaction, and he relishes in the warmth of Jongin’s skin against his. 

 

They stop in front of lockers, and Jongin opens one of them and takes out a small duffle bag. He grabs two towels, eyes bright as he hands one to Kyungsoo. “Our Princess awaits.”

 

It takes a few moments for Kyungsoo’s brain to fully process what Jongin’s talking about. But eventually, he smiles as wide as he possibly can. 

 

He should be dreading having to be around the dolphin lagoon again, but now it’s different. 

 

Now, the lights are dimmed and the dolphins are lazily moving around in their pools without any splashing or commotion. Now there is a warm, calming atmosphere keeping Kyungsoo from overthinking every movement he makes in case he falls in again. Now Jongin is gently holding his waist as they walk, happiness practically radiating off of him as Kyungsoo walks by his side.

 

They stop when they come to another tank more towards the back. 

 

Princess slowly swims over, gently lifting her head from the water and making a nodding motion at Jongin. Jongin does it back to her eagerly and Kyungsoo covers his mouth to keep from outwardly cooing at the precious sight. 

 

“Here,” Jongin says, laying Kyungsoo’s towel down on the concrete floor. He lays his own directly next to it. “Wait here. I’ll be right back.”

 

Kyungsoo nods, slowly sitting down and scooting as close to the edge of the tank as he can. Princess is on her side, peeking at him with open a little. Kyungsoo gently puts out his hand like he had seen other trainers do during Jongin’s shows, holding it in a stiff high five position. 

 

Princess disappears under the water for a moment, coming back up and gently pressing her nose to Kyungsoo’s palm. 

 

Kyungsoo looks at her in awe, especially when she lazily leans to the side, almost like she’s expecting something. He thinks back to the numerous times he’s watched Jongin interact with her, taking a chance and leaning a little more over the tank so he can her cheek.

 

It’s strange, but she feels smooth under Kyungsoo’s fingertips. She seems to like it as well, because she doesn’t move away in the slightest. Kyungsoo whispers little praises to her, feeling like maybe Jongin is rubbing off on him. Then again, maybe that’s not a bad thing.

 

Princess jerks a little, something catching her attention and Kyungsoo sits back as she starts swimming in excited little circles under the water. There are soft footsteps beside him, and he looks up to see Jongin giving him the softest look. He puts down the bucket in his hands and sits directly next to him on the ground, their thighs brushing. Kyungsoo instantly smells the fish coming from the bucket, but he’s too focused on Jongin to really care.

 

He chances leaning against the other man, giving a happy little sigh when Jongin leans into his touch too.

 

“She must remember you if she let you pet her like that,” Jongin starts, a proud tone to his voice. “She’s usually a little nervous when new people try to touch her.”

 

Kyungsoo smiles at the dolphin, especially when she stops swimming in circles and instead lifts her head to give a short whine at them. She makes a couple clicking noises and Jongin shakes his head.

 

“Oh poor baby,” he fake pouts, bringing the bucket a little closer. He shoots Kyungsoo a bit of an apologetic expression. “I know dead fish isn’t the best for a first date, but look at that face.”

 

Jongin gestures to Princess, who is holding open and waiting for treats. Kyungsoo chuckles, not even hesitating this time to reach in and grab a fish. “It’s okay. I’ve accepted I’ll probably permanently smell like fish when I’m around you.”

 

He throws the fish, and both of them watch as she happily catches it and disappears under water. Jongin hums, expression content as he watches her fin break the surface of the water again. “I’m sure she appreciates it.”

 

Kyungsoo snickers. “Hasn’t she already eaten anyway?”

 

Jongin looks down at him, smiling smugly. Oh no, he looks entirely too handsome this close- with his fluffy hair falling into his eyes and his lips plump and pulled into a little smirk. Kyungsoo really might die.

 

“You say that like you’ve never had a midnight snack before.”

 

There’s a beat of silence.

 

“Fair enough.”

 

Jongin chuckles, lifting another fish from the bucket and throwing it in when Princess asks for it. When Jongin relaxes again, he lets his arm rest around Kyungsoo, sighing. Kyungsoo looks at him again, thinking this is the most content he has ever seen the dolphin trainer.

 

He always seems happy when he visits Kyungsoo in the gift shop, but there is something about this moment that is just so infinitely special. 

 

Jongin glances down at him, and Kyungsoo instead looks at his own hands in his lap, his lips. 

 

“You know, I always meant to apologize to you. I was kind of rude the first time you came to the gift shop.” Kyungsoo’s voice is soft, just above a whisper as if he’s afraid to break the moment.

 

Jongin’s brows furrow, eyes darting around as if he’s trying to remember what the other man is talking about. His eyes widen a little when he seems to recall what Kyungsoo is referring to, warm laughter bubbling from his throat. “The whole ‘ Don’t you have fish to feed ’?”

 

Kyungsoo nods. “I really didn’t mean it the way it came out. I just… I sometimes speak but don’t think.” 

 

“I noticed,” he says, almost fondly. His smile turns sheepish. “It’s okay. Actually, you reminded me that day that I forgot to feed the actual fish so… thanks.”

 

Kyungsoo can’t tell if Jongin is just trying to make him feel better or not, but the soft, nervous laugh the other man gives makes Kyungsoo’s heart clench. He bites his lip to keep from smiling like an idiot as usual, but that seems to catch Jongin’s attention.

 

The dolphin trainer’s eyes glance down to Kyungsoo’s lips for a moment, and he swallows. He looks nervous, but too giddy to let that ruin it. Kyungsoo’s glad he’s not alone in this feeling.

 

“I’m really glad we did this today,” Jongin says sweetly, eyes sparkling under the dim lighting of the lagoon.

 

“Yeah,” Kyungsoo answers. His chest constricts at how warm Jongin feels against him. “Thank you for showing me around all day. I had a lot of fun.”

 

In all honesty, he did. He never really was a huge fan of animals, but Jongin made it so engaging and he knew so much about each of the animals that he was practically like a walking encyclopedia of knowledge. It was sweet, and Kyungsoo may or may not have found himself asking more questions as they looked at each animal. He even made a promise to himself to walk around the park more often on his breaks instead of just trying to nap in the employee’s lounge. 

 

Jongin grin turn triumphant. “That makes me really happy to hear.”

 

They both fall into a comfortable silence, both of them watching Princess lazily swim around again like she had done when they first arrived. Kyungsoo thinks that Jongin must do this pretty often if she only expects two fish, and leaves them alone afterwards. It’s too suspicious considering how persistent she was being not even 10 minutes ago.

 

There are gentle splashes of water filling the small lagoon, but for the most part it is quiet. Kyungsoo hears Jongin’s little, soft intake of breath, though, and glances at him once again.

 

The other man’s arm tightens around him, and Jongin’s pretty brown eyes lock with his own as the dolphin trainer’s expression turns shy.

 

 “Kyungsoo?” Jongin asks gently, his lips a little. Almost nervously. “Can I kiss you?”

 

Kyungsoo gives a little half smile, deciding to throw caution to the wind. He doesn’t even answer, just bringing his hand to Jongin’s cheek and lifting his head a little. Jongin meets him halfway in a soft, innocent kiss. 

 

One that has Kyungsoo’s breath hitching, and his heart expanding in his chest.

 

He feels warmth flood his entire being, and he doesn’t stop himself from smiling into the kiss. Jongin does the same, letting his thin fingers gently cup under Kyungsoo’s jaw. 

 

They both pull away, but let their foreheads rest against each other’s.

 

Jongin giggles softly, and it proves to be contagious because Kyungsoo is laughing along with him. 

 

Jongin hums, dropping his hand to Kyungsoo’s lap instead and taking his hand in his. Kyungsoo blushes when Jongin brings his hand to his lips as well, the dolphin trainer resting his soft cheek against it afterwards.

 

Kyungsoo closes his eyes for a moment, feeling like he’s flying. When he opens them again, he lays his head on Jongin’s shoulder, the both of them watching Princess lazily swim in her tank in front of them.

 

~

 

The following three weeks pass by relatively quickly. Kyungsoo supposes time really flies when one is genuinely having fun. 

 

Work in the gift shop seems less tedious than before, because he knows he has every single break to look forward to - he spends every free second he has with Jongin and the dolphin trainer comes to hang at the gift shop between his shows and the feeding hours. Kyungsoo appreciates it.

 

He truly cherishes those little moments, every single minute him and Jongin get to share. They usually stroll around the park hand in hand, or Kyungsoo walks over to the dolphin lagoon after he closes up the gift shop when his shift ends. He is always welcome there to share some more private moments with Jongin alone - the only witness to those deeper and more sensual kisses is Princess, and she seems to be very happy with that development. As far as Kyungsoo can tell, anyways, judging by her ticking screeches. 

 

Jongin tells him that once summer vacation ends he’ll be having less shifts in the dolphin lagoon for the shows. There won’t be too many shows anyways, with the colder seasons slowly approaching. He will have to juggle work with school, and so will Kyungsoo. 

 

At first, Kyungsoo thinks it’s going to mean less opportunities for them to meet up. Jongin, however, immediately refutes with excitement shining through in his eyes. “We’ll get to go on actual dates ”, he says excitedly, grabbing Kyungsoo’s hands as he pulls him through the alleys in the African life section, “ We can go to the movies, and to some fancy restaurant. Maybe even an art gallery.” 

 

Since that conversation, Kyungsoo has also been looking forward to that. Spending even more time with Jongin. Without being surrounded by screeching children and annoying tour guides. The thought alone makes him giddy every time he recalls Jongin’s bright smile in that moment.

 

It is quite a busy day at the zoo on that one fine Thursday, and Jongin is sitting behind the counter at the gift shop next to him, one neoprene covered  thigh resting on top of the other. His hair is a little damp from his earlier show, and he smells like chlorine, and Kyungsoo just loves the whole disheveled surfer-boy vibe his boyfriend is giving off. 

 

Some children are bickering way too close to the pyramid with stuffed animals, and he is pretty sure some other kid is touching the T-shirts with melting ice cream on its little fingers, but Jongin’s hand is lazily resting on his waist as he works the cash register. He is squeezing him closer every now and then, and because of that everything is right with the world in Kyungsoo’s eyes. 

 

It’s a little crowded in the gift shop. Sehun and Baekhyun are discussing the most efficient tour routes as they wait for their groups to gather at the meeting point. Chanyeol had come in earlier, faking dizziness and saying a snake bit him. Kyungsoo fell for it for a total of five seconds, before the stupid caretaker’s mouth broke into a stupid grin. So goddamn stupid . Jongdae is also there. Kyungsoo isn’t sure why he’s there, because he happened to arrive with Jongin, and Kyungsoo does have his priorities. He’s pretty sure he’s once again boasting about the baby lion cubs though. 

 

It’s already loud in the gift shop, and with all those coworkers crowding it even more, it gets stuffy too. Kyungsoo, however, is way too preoccupied with Jongin’s pretty smile and beautiful eyes to pay them much mind. 

 

But even now, time passes way too quickly when Jongin is around him, and before long he says Kyungsoo’s four most dreaded words: 

 

“I need to go,” Jongin says, fingers tightening around Kyungsoo as he pulls him closer to himself for a couple seconds, stealing the chance after a customer walks away. “I have to get ready for a show in half an hour.” 

 

Kyungsoo reluctantly nods, and Jongin just smiles sweetly at him, standing up from the chair. His body is lean and sculpted like a piece of art under the neoprene suit and Kyungsoo internally whines.Don’t go , he thinks to himself, you’re too hot to go . 

 

“I’ll see you later,”  Jongin says instead, pushing their bodies together as he leans down to kiss him straight on the lips. It’s a chaste, pretty quick kiss - he can’t really linger too long. Not with all the kids in the shop. Not with Baekhyun in the shop. But he kisses him, and it’s perfect, and Kyungsoo feels giddy when Jongin’s fingers slide off him slowly and he shines him the most beautiful smile in the history of smiles. 

 

He is completely and utterly smitten as Jongin leans down one more time, to press a quick peck on the tip of his nose. It leaves Kyungsoo giggling when the dolphin trainer turns on his heel and starts walking away. Kyungsoo doesn’t look away from his retreating form until those broad shoulders and defined back (and ) muscles disappear from his sight. 

 

It’s almost ominous.

 

The way he turns his attention back to the store now that Jongin isn’t there to distract him in the best way possible and sees all his friends staring at him. His smile drops immediately, especially at the sight of Sehun’s slightly raised eyebrows. Now that’s alarming.

 

“I am willing to bet big money that Jongin’s favourite position is doggy style,” Baekhyun is the first to speak, a Cheshire grin stretching his lips mischievously. Jongdae is the only one sensible enough to shush him because “ there are children here, Byun ”. 

 

“Dude,”  Chanyeol says in between bites of chips. He looks ready to reprimand him too. “Jongin’s the fish guy. It’s probably starfish.” 

 

Kyungsoo, however, can already feel his previous smile morphing into an annoyed and somewhat deadly glare. He catches Baekhyun’s gaze before the guide can say something stupid again, and he sees him stiffen a little. 

 

Kyungsoo narrows his eyes, and Baekhyun gulps. Probably his sense of self preservation is finally awakening, when he realizes he’s about 3 seconds away from getting his beat. 

 

“What did you say?” Kyungsoo asks, the hostile intent audible in every beat of his question. 

 

Baekhyun makes sure to move away from him, “Nothing.” 

 

Kyungsoo is almost grateful when Sehun changes the subject to the pamphlets. When he says he met with Minseok earlier during the day and they came up. That with the new season coming they’d probably need them soon. 

 

Kyungsoo almost flinches, as he leans down to pick up the few test versions he printed out. Before he can even explain, the little pamphlet is snatched out of his fingers viciously.

 

“I knew it,” Jongdae’s whining is audible in his voice as he stares down at the cover of the pamphlet. It’s Jongin, feeding Princess. It’s a beautiful shot, probably the best picture Kyungsoo has ever taken in his entire life. It deserves the front page. “I knew I should have asked Kyungsoo out first. This is biased media.” 

 

Kyungsoo is about to counter that statement, but Jongdae’s grumpy expression completely fades away when he opens the pamphlet and sees one of his little lion cubs on the next page. His face is completely cropped out of the photo, but those are definitely his hands holding up the baby lion. 

 

“ Oh my God , I’m on the pamphlet! Guys, look!” Kyungsoo would never admit, but the happiness is Jongdae’s voice is almost endearing. His grin is satisfied, in a partially malicious way, when he shoves the pamphlet in Chanyeol’s face. “ Eat  .”

 

Kyungsoo scoffs, in the same time Baekhyun lets out a breath.

 

“You can’t even see his goddamn face,” the guide tells Sehun as he shows him the pamphlet. He shakes his head. “I can’t believe this. We have Nick from Zootopia and Mike Wazowski working for out park. Next week I’ll put on a blond wig and I’ll expect you all to call me Elza.”

 

There is no reaction to that statement, as they pass the pamphlet around. Baekhyun just shifts from one leg to another.

 

“No, really,” he says, sounding more than a little disgruntled. “A kid’s having a Frozen themed birthday party and I have to dress up as Elza.”

 

Kyungsoo scoffs yet again, in the same time Sehun barks out a laugh.

 

“You won’t be able to pull off an Elza even if you tried,” the other guide says, earning himself a sharp look from Baekhyun.

 

He looks equal parts embarrassed and ready to fight.

 

“What the is that supposed to mean?” 

 

Kyungsoo rolls his eyes, tuning out the bickering that follows from all sides of the gift shop. 

 

He pretends not to see the way Sehun accidentally knocks over the animal pyramid while arguing with Baekhyun, and then proceeding to act like it wasn’t him. But Kyungsoo sees him, and oh, he willpay for it. It took Kyungsoo twenty minutes to build that. 

 

But not now.

 

Now, he just stares down at the pamphlet that’s back on the counter, and at Jongin smiling beautifully in the picture. He feels his heart fluttering in his chest as he throws a look towards the clock. 

 

Yes. Just two more hours and then Jongin is all his. 

 

~

 

Kyungsoo’s head is on fire when he finally closes up the gift shop. The loud laughter and constant bickering of his friends is echoing in his mind, and he is so tired. 

 

But suddenly, there are two hands wrapping around him from behind as he reaches the exit of the zoo, almost sweeping him off his feet as they twirl him around. 

 

Kyungsoo’s already smiling, even before he completely turns around to face Jongin. His boyfriend doesn’t even wait for a greeting before leaning down to kiss him. 

 

His lips are soft against his, warm and gentle, and so sweet that they have Kyungsoo’s entire world shaking when they lock together with his and move lazily. Languidly. Enjoying every single second of this moment, making the best of it. 

 

Jongin’s hair is still a little damp, droplets of water falling on Kyungsoo’s cheeks as they kiss, and Kyungsoo almost laughs in the kiss when a drop trickles down his skin. It almost tickles. 

 

He pushes Jongin away playfully when he’s out of breath, chest heaving up and down. The dolphin trainer does step back, an expression just as dazed spreading on his beautiful face. Kyungsoo’s fingers slide down from his shoulders to his lean chest, over the soft fabric of a fresh shirt. 

 

“You smell like fish.”

 

Jongin just grins at him, and pulls him closer in a hug. 

 

“But you like it.”

 

“I do,” Kyungsoo says, laughing a little at himself. Jongin grins down at him, hands still wrapped around his waist. They both have to go, but neither of them want to. 

 

There’s a small beat of silence, and Kyungsoo purses his lips.

 

“What you’ve mentioned before, about us going on more dates.” Kyungsoo takes in Jongin’s pretty brown eyes and glowing, caramel skin under the dim lighting of the sunset around them. He can’t help but to melt. “I’m excited for dates where it’s just the two of us. No giraffes, no dolphins. No Baekhyun to make offhand jokes about Chanyeol and his reptiles. No Jongdae screaming about his lions. No Minseok nearly running us over with his golf cart. Just us .”

 

Jongin grins wide, reaching down to hold both of his hands, as they start walking away from the zoo. “But where’s the fun in that?”

 

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With this, our first collaboration is done~

We'd love to hear your thoughts so make sure you leave us some comments, screeching just like Princess~