2016

One night on a cold December is very lively even though it's already past 10 o'clock. The winter wind gusts every now and then, but it seems to have no effect when people are still engrossed in their actions. Groups of people are laughing and enjoying each other's company by the shop lots. The olfactible smell of hot choco tangled in the cold air shows how dedicated they are waiting for midnight to come. The shop lots also show how busy it is and packed with customers from outside. The stygian night becomes vibrant with colorful radiation from the buildings, decorated-trees and street lights.

He tightens the scarf around his neck and the coat around his petite figure to keep himself warm from the cold temperature. He walks along the sidewalk, leaving traces of his footprints on the snow underneath. The snow falls from the above to the earth gently and snowflakes can be seen among the light rain of snow. It hits his face once and then twice and he loves the cold touch even when his body is already shaking from the coldness.

He is lucky that he decided to bring along his beanie before he went out of his apartment because the snow starts to accumulate on top of his sunkissed-brown hair. He ruffles his hair to get rid of the white flakes and wears the beanie, covering his hair along with his red ears. His ears turn red from the frosty atmosphere but he doesn't take out the earphones stuck in it. A playlist of their favorite songs is on shuffle, giving him the presence of the one he loves the most.

A smile forms on his face whenever he remembers his other half.

He turns at a corner and not far from it; he can see a stall selling hot coffee. He jogs slowly to the stall as his body can't withstand the temperature anymore. There are no customers at the moment he arrives so he buys a cup of coffee quickly and sips slowly as he continues to walk. He can feel his body getting warmer and when he smells the familiar aroma, it reminds him of the warmth he gets the first time he meet Seungcheol.

2010

Jihoon lounged across the sofa at the living room as he waited for his housemates, Soonyoung and Wonwoo. He didn't know what's taking them so long to get ready and he growled in frustration when the clock strikes 8. He calculated the time he had before his class starts at 9. The journey to their university took around 30 minutes by subway and usually Jihoon will go to his usual café to get his morning coffee, but with the amount of time he had left, he will not make it in time.

He needed his morning coffee to function for the rest of the day. Even when he roused, he still felt the need to sleep because he had been up all night, did the assignment that due in a few days. He turned his head left and right respectively when the frustration grew and he quickly sat up after that.

"Are you guys done yet?" Jihoon screamed loud enough for his housemates to hear from inside of their room.

"Coming~" A voice replied and Jihoon knew that slightly nasally voice belongs to Soonyoung.

"Sorry, Jihoon-ah…" Another voice can be heard and that quite manly voice belongs to non-other than Wonwoo.

Jihoon stood up and adjusted his black hoodie neatly before he took his sling bag on the floor. He had two classes that day so his bag was lighter compared to the rest of the weekdays. He headed towards the front door and slipped into his sneakers before he opened the door and went outside. The soft ray of morning sun struck his vision, welcoming him yet blinding him for a moment before he could see again.

The growing frustration inside of him lessened when the morning breeze showered him with gentle touches against his skin. He looked at the surrounding to find calming scenery lies before him. From their apartment on the 7^th floor, he can see how the sun shined beautifully throughout the whole neighborhood. The morning wind also gusted through the branches of the trees, adding soothing sound of rustling leaves in the air.

But before he could enjoy any further, he was interrupted by the presence of his housemates. Wonwoo was locking the door while Soonyoung was tying the laces of his high-cut boots and they walked side by side with hands holding one another. Jihoon followed them not far behind, giving them some space.

They walked along the corridor, heading towards the elevator and Jihoon could see how happy his housemates were from behind. The visible pink blushes on their cheeks showed how they appreciated their companion when their eyes made a contact. Jihoon could also say that he can see flying sparks around them every single time they did something together, even from doing trivial activities.

Jihoon didn't understand what they're feeling because he had never experience it before, but it made him happy to see his housemates, his best friends fell in love with each other. They made him wanting to fall in love too, but he didn't have the chance to since he was always busy with his studies and producing songs. His love towards his hobby was tremendous and he always locked himself up in his room, but he was positive that one day, that particular one day will come and change everything without him looking for it.

**********

The subway ride was extended longer than expected when they had to wait for the next subway train. Their class was supposed to be starting 10 minutes ago but their lecturer left them a message at the very last minute, canceling the class as he had an important event to attend to. Jihoon couldn't feel happier when he heard the news after he had to rush over. Jihoon decided to take a morning walk around the campus while the couple went to the library to get their assignment done.

Jihoon walked around until he reached a park in the middle of the university that was connected to every faculty. There was a big fountain at the center and a stair-like path around it. The stair-like path can also be a place for the students to sit while facing the fountain from every angle as it was designed in circular pattern and he walked downwards, heading to the front row.

He looked at his surrounding and spotted countable amount of students at the park. Those students probably didn't have any morning class. The reason why Jihoon assumed that was because they rested in an enjoyable activity like lying on the grass and facing the blue sky, simply reading a book and listening to music. A coffee aroma hit his nostrils when Jihoon was looking around the park. He directed his gaze from where the aroma came from and noticed a student holding a cup of coffee, sat not far from him. He examined his surrounding and saw a café nearby.

He stood up and patted away the invisible dust before he headed towards the café.

Jihoon opened the door slowly and the bell at the top corner of the door jingled throughout the café. There were many students and some he came to recognized, both from the same and different faculties. He exchanged greetings but shut every possibility of a conversation as he quickly queued in line. He didn't know there was a café in the campus and he came to like the environment. The interior was merely decorated with soft-hued colors but the simple design suited to his liking. The furniture looked freshly-bought thus the café must be new-built.

Jihoon roamed his eyes at every direction to study the new setting until he heard someone called out for him up front. He walked closer to the counter and the cashier welcomed him with a formal greeting and a genuine smile.

"Welcome to Sebong's Café. What would you like to order?" The cashier asked in a bright tone and Jihoon looked at his features.

His hair was jet-black in color and his skin tone was pale, amazingly how both of it complemented each other. Just when he was about to scan other features, Jihoon caught a pair of shining black orbs and he couldn't look away from it. Jihoon felt unusual when he sensed something knocking at the door of his heart when their eyes met. Their eyes stayed in contact for a few seconds before Jihoon averted his attention to a menu on the side.

Jihoon tried to process the list on the menu but his brain was fuzzy and his heart pounded harder than usual. He resolved to buy a coffee after looking at the menu long enough.

"One coffee, please." Jihoon said and he regretted when he looked upwards because the cashier was giving him a radiant look. His eyes twinkled and his mouth curved into a smile. His eyes, his smile and his bright spirit, all at once smiled at Jihoon.

The cashier gone back to make Jihoon's coffee and it didn't take much time since the order was easy to make. The cashier came back at the counter and handed Jihoon his coffee while Jihoon handed him the money in return. They slightly bowed at each other in appreciation but before Jihoon turned around and headed outside, he managed to glance at the nametag of the cashier.

Choi Seungcheol.

Jihoon pulled the door open and sipped in the hot coffee slowly as he tried to digest everything that just happened back there. He didn't know why he felt so weak in front of the cashier named Seungcheol. His brain became clearer as he inhaled the air steadily but his heart kept beating rapidly. He wasn't sure of what he felt at that moment but one thing he knew that it was something beyond his comprehension. Jihoon settled to calm himself down by joining his housemates at the library before their second class started.

Your eyes weakening me since the first time I saw you

And honestly, I never feel…

I never feel this way before

2016

Jihoon throws the empty cup into a dustbin nearby and takes out his phone to make a call. He makes a promise with his best friends to meet up at the appointed place in an hour. But knowing his best friends, they probably drop by somewhere else first and when his call doesn't connect, he reassures himself that they'll make it in time. Jihoon continues to walk ahead, feeling better as the hot coffee help to warm his body slightly from the cold weather.

Jihoon likes winter as it gives him more reason to stay indoors and avoid any physical-required activities. When the temperature is bearably cold, Jihoon can work on his music, composing and producing pieces that yet the public will favor. And when the temperature is unbearably freezing, he gets to cuddle up in a comforter and lie around on his bed all day long with a cup of hot cocoa as his companion. It's absolutely a blissful season to him.

Thus, there is no reason why he would enjoy summer because it's completely the opposite of winter. Everything about summer is tiring, even the word 'summer' sounds weary to him. The word 'summer' defines summer school, sports carnival, increasing workload and other things along the line. But don't get him wrong, Jihoon is fine doing all that; he rarely complains about it. It's just he prefers winter more than summer. That's all.

Yet, surprisingly he comes to like summer because of Choi Seungcheol. The first time he sees Seungcheol is memorable to him and Seungcheol comes to define 'summer' in his dictionary. Bright, radiant and dazzling. He admits that ever since their first date, he keeps on seeing Seungcheol but that doesn't mean he spend any time less composing and producing. In fact, Seungcheol becomes the inspiration to his music, his muse.

And looking at the changes happen on Jihoon, Soonyoung and Wonwoo gladly give Seungcheol the stamp of approval.

A multiple white puff can be seen when Jihoon exhales against the frosty atmosphere as he walks along the sidewalk. The light rain of snow slowly dwindling until there is no sign of a single snowflake fall from the above. Jihoon looks up at the sky, wanting more snow to fall against him but takes back his request when his boots sink in the snow. Jihoon quickly retreats back from the thick snow and goes to the side with a decent amount of it.

He carries on his journey using an alternative road and from there, the modern-designed street lights change to ancient-setting lampposts. He can't hide the heartwarming smile on his face when a flash of remembrance related to lamppost comes to his memory.

2010

Jihoon twirled the pen skillfully with his fingers and bit his lower lip as he tried to solve the pure math equation in front of him. He had been looking at the equation for a few minutes but his brain couldn't find a way to solve it. He tried to see every possible way to get it done but even when he tried to use a different method, he came to a dead end. He groaned in annoyance and stood up, heading towards his bed. He threw himself in defeat on the soft mattress and sprawled across it.

He closed his eyes as his mind filled with numbers and mathematical symbols. It's amazing how he felt in a complete joy when he could get the right answer but in a total despair when he couldn't solve the equation. It's either black or white, nothing in between. He always thought that mathematics was not important in his life as his dream had nothing to do with it. But it was the knowledge that kept him closer to his dream, so he had to give his best no matter what.

Then again, there were times he wished the subject would go easy on him. Jihoon sighed in disappointment.

[Knock, knock]

"Jihoon-ah, dinner time." Soonyoung's voice can be heard from behind the closed door.

Jihoon stood up from his messy bed and quickly headed outside. He slid his hands in the pockets of his sweatpants and the oversized black shirt slowly revealed one side of his collarbones, emphasizing how indolent he is. He didn't care about his messy bed hair because all he could think of was dinner, dinner and dinner. He needed energy to get his math work done. He walked languidly out from his room and headed towards the dining room but he stopped on his track when he could hear voices that he didn't recognize.

Jihoon peeked from behind a wall secretly and he found three new figures; two were sitting back-facing him while the other one looked like a foreigner?  Wonwoo was talking to them cheerfully and Soonyoung looked happy as he served each one of them. Jihoon noticed an empty seat in front of the new person at their six-seater dining table and as he was about to retreat back to his room, Soonyoung called him out.

"Jihoon-ah, come here…"

"Jihoon-ah, meet my friends from my club." Wonwoo said as Soonyoung had to drag Jihoon hiding from behind the wall to the dining table. All eyes were focusing on Jihoon's small presence until he was seated but a pair of eyes couldn't look away. Jihoon looked up to see the person who had his gaze fixed on him and he choked on the cold water that he drank.

Jihoon almost spurted the water out but he managed to swallow it down his throat even though it was painful. Soonyoung came to his side and slowly patted Jihoon's back as the smaller tried to get his breathing stable again.

"What's wrong?" Soonyoung asked and Jihoon refused to say anything, he shook his head instead. Jihoon looked up again to meet the gaze in front of him and he regretted his decision because it turned from surprised to worried look. Jihoon looked down to his clasped hands on his lap and remained silence as his heart started to beat faster and his cheeks burned.

[Knock, knock]

He swore he could hear the knocking again, but this time at the door of his heart. Jihoon didn't know what to do until a plate filled with mouth-watering lasagna placed in front of him. The food looked inviting and Jihoon forgot about the guy sitting in front of him when he took a quick taste of it. He looked in complete awe and the guy chuckled at his cute reaction. And what came next was the least what he expected.

"Mingyu made that. Delicious, isn't it?" That deep yet bright voice awaken Jihoon from his thoughts.

"Don't say that, Seungcheol-hyung. It tasted just like how lasagna should be..." Mingyu cut in swiftly and the blushes of appreciation can be spotted on his cheeks. Wonwoo and the foreigner-looking guy laughed at the interaction between their members.

"Oh, Jihoon-ah…" Wonwoo spoke up. "this is Mingyu and this is Hansol   " as Wonwoo showed him the said people seated near him until he showed the guy in front of Jihoon "   that's Seungcheol-hyung."

Jihoon smiled at the three of them but quickly focused back his attention on the lasagna as he could feel the awkwardness. But maybe it was just him because the five of them were talking while eating wholeheartedly and Jihoon could see how close they were, especially with Wonwoo. It's a different kind of 'close' than Soonyoung; more like the brotherhood type of close.

To be very honest, he felt warm and fuzzy as they got visitors over at their place and having dinner together was really satisfying. Yet, he felt slightly uncomfortable under Seungcheol's gaze from time to time. The memories of him shamelessly pining Seungcheol since day 1 were flashing back and he really wished how the earth would eat him and hid his embarrassment.

It was obvious how Jihoon slowly developed a crush towards Seungcheol as he changed his usual café to get his morning coffee. He has been eyeing Seungcheol a lot than he should when the cashier was busy carrying his duty behind the counter and of course, he has been caught staring by the other every single time. But somehow, from shy glances Jihoon has been giving changed to exchange gazes and smiles with the cashier.

Seungcheol has become his secret haven and someone who Jihoon would only admire from afar. The more reason why he was caught off guard when he saw Seungcheol sitting across him and suddenly he remembered of what he wore at that time. Jihoon mentally slapped himself as he pulled the oversized shirt to cover his collarbone. He could've wore something decently nice if he knew Seungcheol was going to be here. Jihoon cleared his throat to give a signal of his dismissal from the dining table as he stood up and headed towards the kitchen sink.

He dropped the plate along with the used utensils in the sink and walked out of the dining room.

"I'm going out for a walk." Jihoon said as the merry atmosphere became still and he could feel how his housemates and their friends tense for a moment before Soonyoung's voice broke the tension.

"Okay, Jihoon-ah…" Soonyoung said and only a door was squeakily open can be heard.

Jihoon took his key and his wallet before grabbing his jacket and closing the door behind him. He kept his eyes on the front door as he walked across the living room until he could see a silhouette at the entryway clearly. He stopped as he looked at the guy for an explanation and the guy granted his wish.

"Can I join you?" Seungcheol asked and Jihoon nodded hurriedly, looking somewhere else to hide his pink cheeks.

They walked in a harmonizing pace along the sidewalk, side by side with a fair distance between them. Jihoon hated himself for getting butterflies from a simple action. Jihoon didn't know what to say and how to initiate a conversation with Seungcheol because he still couldn't accept the reality. It felt too good to be true for him and his crush to be walking together like this at night. Jihoon tugged his pine-colored jacket tighter as the autumnal wind blew against him.

He kept his eyes on his side to find red and orange leaves twirled along the swirling course before it landed on the ground. The autumnal wind blew again and the leaves rustled against one another before more leaves detached from the branches, flying above him to make the whole situation more picturesque. The lampposts along the sidewalk were beautiful, adding the antique and grand touch to the road. He could see a few cars drove by on the road and the vrooming sound was calming to him.

Jihoon remembered that he wasn't alone when he heard a voice from the other side.

"So, Jihoon…" Seungcheol said and he stopped under one of the lampposts. Jihoon had to stop too, standing still while looking slightly above to meet Seungcheol's eyes. The light from the lamppost was shining so brightly behind the taller, but not as bright as Seungcheol's black orbs.

[Knock, knock]

Jihoon bit his lower lip and averted his attention when that knocking sensation can be felt for the second time that day.

"I've been seeing you around lately…" Seungcheol started and Jihoon noticed how Seungcheol stuttered a little.

"Yeah…" Jihoon replied and he smiled to his stupid self for being obvious. If only he knew they would meet one day, he would've been careful about his glances and make his presence invisible.

"I'm Choi Seungcheol." Seungcheol introduced himself and politely handed out one of his hands for a handshake; the friendly gesture of becoming acquaintances.

"Lee Jihoon…" Jihoon hesitated at first but he slowly held onto Seungcheol's hand and shook a handshake. He withdrew his hand carefully as Seungcheol let go of their clasped hands. He swore to god, he kept feeling the knocking sensation inside of him and he hated himself for falling so easily. Falling?

"I didn't know you were Wonwoo's housemates. He's been talking about you and Soonyoung so much and how he wanted us to meet." Jihoon looked up again to see the sincerity in Seungcheol's eyes.

"He probably told Soonyoung about you guys because I didn't know…"

"Oh…" Seungcheol replied blankly and Jihoon felt sorry for being too honest. Maybe he should've lied a little to make everything goes easily but Seungcheol reassured him back when a smile can be seen on his face.

"Sorry."

"Don't worry about it." Jihoon smiled at Seungcheol when he heard the reply, but then he didn't know what topic he should bring up.

"So, I was thinking… that maybe   " Seungcheol laughed and a sheepishly grin appeared after that as he rubbed the back of his head. Jihoon waited for Seungcheol to continue the conversation and they kept on looking until Seungcheol spoke up. "   that maybe, we could get a coffee tomorrow…"

Jihoon looked at him in confusion for a minute.

"You're not working tomorrow?" and Jihoon looked away when he realized what he just said. It sounded like he was anticipated to see Seungcheol tomorrow but Seungcheol casually answered his question without noticing how awkward Jihoon became.

"I am, but you know, maybe we could get a coffee and sit together at a table instead of stealing glances, being separated by the counter..." Seungcheol said and for the first time that day, he looked away shyly for stating his true intention. Jihoon blushed, yes he blushed hard. He could feel his cheeks burning but he kept his eyes on Seungcheol instead. Seungcheol looked cute when he's shy and embarrassed, Jihoon was happy to see this new side of him.

Jihoon wondered how many sides of Seungcheol he's going to discover if he agreed to the suggestion. He was curious to know the real Choi Seungcheol and what makes him so easily fallen to the guy, only by looking at his pair of dazzling eyes. So, instead of beating around the bush, he accepted the offer to uncover it himself. Finally, he opened the door of his heart and let Seungcheol in.

"Sure." Jihoon agreed and that smile on Seungcheol came to life again, Jihoon unconsciously smiled too.

Maybe this is 'love at the first sight' because what I feel is unfamiliar

If it's true that this is love, from where…

From where it began?

2016

Jihoon doesn't notice how long he has been standing under the lamppost, leaning on it while reminiscing the good ol' times when suddenly a pair of hands swiftly wraps around his waist. Jihoon jumps a little but his heart beat slowly calms down when he's being pulled into a familiar warmth. He can smell the well-known cologne that's not foreign to him and he turns around to face the person.

Seungcheol comes in view, of course taller than him and Jihoon has to look up to meet the eyes that he loves. Seungcheol's hair is black again, after a few years of experimenting his hair in various dark-hued colors. It looks inviting, especially when Seungcheol doesn't style his hair up so Jihoon tenderly it, feeling the hair running under his fingers and palm.

"How long have you been waiting?"

"Long enough to make me lost in my thoughts…"

"Oh? What were you thinking, Hoon-ie? Who were you thinking?" Seungcheol asks with a smirk on his face.

"Just, someone …" Jihoon responses weakly, doesn't want to admit the truth.

"Are you perhaps, thinking about me?" Seungcheol knows how to tease the smaller and he brings Jihoon closer to him, wrapping his hands tighter around the waist. Jihoon stops himself from Seungcheol's adorable-looking hair when there are a few inches apart between his lips and Seungcheol's. They can feel the hot breath on their faces as the breathing turns into white puffs filling the gap between them.

If it was 6 years ago, Jihoon would've shyly averted his attention and looked away which in the end, Seungcheol dropped a kiss on his cheek. But, being in a relationship with Seungcheol that he loves for    goddamn    6 years, Jihoon learns how to play the game too.

Jihoon tiptoes himself up and tosses his weight at Seungcheol as his hands skillfully circling around Seungcheol's neck. Seungcheol secures his hands even tighter around Jihoon's waist to support the smaller as he leans in closer until their lips meet. Their kisses always start pure and innocent until Jihoon tugs on Seungcheol's hair at the back of his head. It is a signal for Seungcheol to devour the love deeper into Jihoon's mouth avidly but he breaks away instead.

He can see a disappointment on Jihoon's face when the smaller pouts cutely. To be very honest, Seungcheol will always go weak on his knees but he gathers himself together.

"Save the hot session later, baby. We have to find the kids." Seungcheol explains as he brushes their noses together.

"Sure…" and Jihoon leaves a loving peck on Seungcheol's lips before going down on his feet, standing close in Seungcheol's embrace.

The hands around Jihoon's waist and around Seungcheol's neck draw back to its original position before Seungcheol quickly catches Jihoon's hand. Jihoon swiftly intertwines their fingers together, always feeling proud and happy to initiate the skinship.

They walk closer towards the bridge, the appointed place for them to gather on New Year's Eve but there are still no signs of the others. Jihoon takes out his phone to make a phone call when suddenly a voice calling his name from behind.

"Jihoon-ah!" Soonyoung yells as he waves over to indicate their location.

Of course, there is Wonwoo, walking very closely next to Soonyoung and behind them, come two other couples. Hansol asks Seungcheol, the father of the group, if he can invite Seungkwan too    other than to introduce him to the family    and Seungcheol is the happiest one to greet the newcomer. And as if one foreigner is not enough in the group, Mingyu happens to be in a close term with a cute-looking Chinese guy and the duo also comes.

They all meet the Chinese guy, Xu Minghao, before, quite a few times over lunch and dinner. It's the first time they meet Hansol's boyfriend, Boo Seungkwan but apparently, Seungkwan is very talkative and cheerful which makes him approachable. Jihoon starts to be fascinated by Seungkwan at how active he is in talking, which is totally different from him and somehow a proud smile comes in view. Hansol must be so happy to have Seungkwan by his side as the two are the complete opposite but that what attracts them together.

Seungcheol leans in closer to whisper at Jihoon while the other's attentions are at Seungkwan.

"Why baby?" Seungcheol asks curiously but keeps his voice low, doesn't want the kids to hear.

"Seungkwan, he is really entertaining…" Jihoon looks at Seungcheol's side to give him a glare. "And don't call me that in front of everybody."

"Don't worry, they don't know. Plus, since everyone is here, I can't help but feel excited to run away from them and go home to continue our session…" Seungcheol dangerously whispers into Jihoon's ear and Jihoon pushes him away a little bit too hard. Jihoon doesn't know how logical it is for Seungcheol to make him feels so hot in the middle of a freezing night. Jihoon flushes in bright red as Seungcheol succeed in teasing him and quickly walks ahead, leaving the rest behind.

"Baby    I mean, Jihoon-ie, wait!" Seungcheol runs over to Jihoon's side but instead of comforting him, Seungcheol continues on his antics in teasing his boyfriend. Jihoon keeps on pushing Seungcheol away from him yet Seungcheol doesn't know how to stop because it's fun to see that adorably shy reaction. It's obvious that Seungcheol is having fun when a bright smile plasters on his face.

"They're definitely the cutest, I swear." Wonwoo speaks up when all of them pause from looking at the cute couple ahead.

Soonyoung nods and clutches onto Wonwoo's arm as they walk. Mingyu and Minghao also start to walk with a distance between them but it is comfortable, slowly walking in the early phase of a relationship. While Seungkwan happily hugs Hansol from the side, poking his boyfriend's cheek every now and then. Hansol rolls his eyes to show how annoyed he is but he can't hide his bubbly smile from Seungkwan.

They arrive at the center of the bridge, walking hands in hands as they pass through the crowd until they find a spot just enough to fit the eight of them. They stand in pairs, which is easier than forming a circle in the middle of the horde and they start to join in the countdown.

"5, 4…"

Jihoon looks up on his side to see Seungcheol smiling brightly as he counts down with the rest. His heart starts to pound so hard; Jihoon is amazed how Seungcheol can make him feel that way for 6 years straight without fail. What he feels towards Seungcheol is indescribable; he knows he loves Seungcheol but what he feels is greater than just love. Seungcheol has become the person who he can't live without. Jihoon can't afford to lose Seungcheol in any possible way.

"3…"

Jihoon suddenly feels scared. The coldness starts to eat him alive; he doesn't want Seungcheol to leave him in the freezing temperature. He breathes out carbon dioxide which soon forms into white puff in the air before disappearing with the wind. Jihoon is scared after what they have built for the past years vanished into thin air so easily. Their ups and downs together, their laughter and cries, all the hardships that they have overcome, Jihoon doesn't want it to go to waste. He doesn't want them to end.

"2…"

Jihoon's cold fingers find its home as it intertwines with Seungcheol's.

Look at me, Seungcheol. Look at me and tell me you're going to stay by my side forever.

Jihoon doesn't have to say it out loud because Seungcheol is turning to Jihoon's side, meeting his fixed gaze as if he can listen to Jihoon's silent wish. Seungcheol tightens the grip in between their fingers and pulls Jihoon closer to him.

"What's wrong, baby?" Seungcheol whispers quietly, only Jihoon can hear in the midst of loud cheering for the New Year's Eve. Seungcheol knows everything in Jihoon's head by merely an eye contact.

"1…!!"

Jihoon pulls the hem of Seungcheol's jacket closer to him to catch those cold, plump lips with his. He pulls away quickly before Seungcheol can respond to the kiss since it's enough for Jihoon to convey everything he feels at the moment.

"I love you, Seungcheol. Please don't leave me." Jihoon somehow sounds like he's pleading and Seungcheol smiles brightly.

A few    what seems to be like    thin, white lines of smoke shoot up straight to the sky before it explodes. It whirls in a spiral; some shatter into thousands of sparks while others tumble like a scarlet waterfall and float in a glittering silver shower. The first one is red in color, followed by orange and pink continuously after that. The fireworks start to decorate the cloudless sky with beautiful mixture of colors and shapes. The black, monotonous sky is filled with momentary sonic boom! that attracts all the attention.

Jihoon and Seungcheol break their loving gazes as they look to the front, watching the spectacular firework show. It is dazzling despite the cold weather and twinkling as it replaces a canopy of luminous stars at the night sky. Jihoon loves it. He loves this small, trivial moment and he is more than fulfilled to experience it with Seungcheol and the rest of s. His face lights up as the joyful feeling conquering from the corner of his heart, leaving his insecurity behind.

Jihoon catches a glimpse to his surrounding and he can see that visible jubilation in each and every person. Soonyoung is breathing in Wonwoo's scent as he hugs his boyfriend tightly, not wanting to let go. Wonwoo is also enjoying Soonyoung being in his embrace as he leans lower to place his chin on top of Soonyoung's crown. Jihoon can't stop smiling looking at his best friends, still going strong since the first day they officially become a couple.

Mingyu and Minghao are talking casually, very best friend-like but Jihoon knows they're in love with each other by the obvious shooting hearts and sparkling sparks around them. And the way Mingyu smiles widely, the way Minghao's cheeks turning red, Jihoon knows they're into one another without saying. It's about time for one person to speak up and confess which surely will be accepted as the feelings are mutual.

Just when Jihoon tries to find Hansol among the crowd around them, Seungkwan suddenly pats his shoulder from behind. Jihoon turns around, and so does Seungcheol as they find both, Seungkwan and Hansol are standing in front of them.

"Seungcheol-hyung. Jihoon-hyung. It's nice to finally meet you!" Seungkwan tries to surpass his nervousness; he almost stumbled from his 90° bow if it weren't for Hansol's arm around his waist.

"Hey Seungkwan-ah~" Jihoon greets the younger happily as he waves slightly and Seungcheol's long arm find its way to ruffle Seungkwan's blonde hair. Seungkwan slides back a little shyly as the hand suddenly makes a contact with his hair but he feels glad.

"So, do I get the stamp of approval?" Seungkwan asks Seungcheol while he plays with the sleeves of his winter coat. Hansol on his side looks at Seungkwan continuously to check on him. His arm is still around Seungkwan's waist and Jihoon can't help but feel warm on the inside.

"What do you mean?" Seungcheol asks with a smile on his face, very father-like.

"Well    " Seungkwan gives Hansol a look before he continues, which Hansol doesn't understand so he gives a blank stare at Seungkwan in return. "    Hansol once told me that you guys are like his parents, so I thought that I need the approval to, you know, be with him."

"You're such an idiot." Hansol mutters slowly under his breath but Jihoon and Seungcheol can hear despite the loud noises around them. And Hansol's red cheeks can't be mistaken anymore. Jihoon and Seungcheol are somehow entertained with Seungkwan's cute behavior and at the same time, touched to know Hansol's impression towards them.

"Seungkwan-ah, you're more than qualified." Jihoon says and Seungkwan's face brightens up with a million watts smile.

"Welcome to the family~" Seungcheol says as he pulls Jihoon closer to him, presenting them just like how parents welcome their soon-becoming in-laws. Jihoon looks up to see Seungcheol and Seungcheol meets his gaze. Seungcheol leans in fast; Jihoon doesn't get to avoid the kiss that comes to peck on his lips. Hansol is playing around, covering Seungkwan's eyes from seeing his parents kiss in front of them.

Jihoon and Seungcheol laugh at their children's adorable reaction before looking at each other again, drowning into the black shining orbs of theirs. That must be it. Jihoon knows how he falls for Seungcheol in the first place. How the fireworks reflect its brilliant sparks on Seungcheol's set of eyes makes Jihoon falls in deeper. Beautiful.

"Happy New Year." Seungcheol breaks the silence between them but still fixes his love-filled gaze towards Jihoon.

"Happy New Year to you too."

From your eyes I started to fall in love

I can see there's a silhouette

From your eyes, you make me fall

Continuously fall straight to my heart

2017

The still and hush bedroom awaken by the sound of birds chirping in a singsong manner the very first morning of 2017. A rhythmic swishing sound of curtains at the windows enhances the calmness of the morning by the wind force from a standing fan at a corner. The sunlight makes its way pass through the windows when the curtains swaying side-to-side and lands onto the beautiful long eyelashes of Seungcheol. He feels rather disturbed when a soft ray shines against his eyelids so he turns himself to the other side, back-facing the sun.

But, a smile slowly forms on his face as a gesture of happiness when the familiar scent comes to greet him. A mixture of vanilla and chocolate fragrance with a little touch from the white musk lotion and slightly humanly smell. Seungcheol breathes in some more before he snakes one arm around the waist and nuzzles deep in between the neck and the shoulder.

A companionably pat on his hand is what Seungcheol gets in return as he closes the distance between him and the smaller guy.

"Morning~" Seungcheol says softly against the exposed shoulder.

"Morning." Jihoon's morning voice sounds amazing to Seungcheol; raw and slightly hoarse.

Seungcheol props one elbow to push himself up, just enough to peek over at Jihoon who has his back on him. Jihoon has his eyes close, getting ready to go back to slumber any minute. Seeing a beautiful human sleeping soundly, Seungcheol doesn't have the heart to wake Jihoon up so he lies back down and snuggles tighter.

Jihoon loves morning cuddles, Seungcheol knows that. Jihoon told him before, that their morning cuddles make him feel the most comfortable and at ease, which sometimes helps Jihoon to recover back his sleep from insomnia. Seungcheol is more likely to help the other.

"What time is it?" Jihoon asks and his morning voice echoes through the silent space between them.

"I'm not sure. Why?" Seungcheol responds, showering Jihoon with light kisses on his exposed shoulder since Jihoon is fully awake.

"Stop that." Jihoon chuckles in between. "It tickles." Jihoon makes an effort to turn himself around, facing Seungcheol this time. Jihoon presses a finger onto Seungcheol's plump lips when the guy leans in, most probably want a morning kiss. Jihoon is not against the idea but he finds it awkward to do so because he is insecure of his morning breath. Seungcheol explained to him once, that being in a relationship is being able to accept the person entirely.

Still, Jihoon doesn't like it. Seungcheol leans in to press a soft, long kiss on Jihoon's forehead without further ado and it makes Jihoon giggling on the inside.

"Do you want to do anything today? It's new year." Jihoon closes his eyes as he presses himself against Seungcheol's bare chest and Seungcheol smoothly embracing him into a koala bear hug.

"Being with you like this is more than enough." Seungcheol breathes in the smell of Jihoon's shampoo. It smells like a green apple.

"Shut up." Jihoon lightly smacks Seungcheol's chest with the back of his hand.

As they're about to enjoy each other warmth, Jihoon's phone rings loudly throughout their quiet room. Seungcheol pouts a little when Jihoon breaks away from him as he sits himself up and picks up the call. Seungcheol finds it cute when Jihoon rubs his sleepy eyes while talking to the caller lazily.

Seungcheol is lost in his own thoughts when he looks at Jihoon. The messy, dark-browned bed hair of Jihoon makes Seungcheol wants to run his fingers through the locks. Seungcheol's pastel-orange shirt is too big for Jihoon's smaller figure as it slides down on one of his shoulder, exposing his defined collarbone. He is mesmerized by Jihoon's morning beauty that lies before him, that is exclusively his. The only beauty that presents to Choi Seungcheol.

And Seungcheol has been caught staring by a pair of Jihoon's smaller eyes.

"Stop looking at me like that." Jihoon's face flushes red as he says it.

"Sorry. Can't help it, you're too beautiful." Seungcheol grins widely at his boyfriend.

"Shut up. I'm going to take a shower first. Hansol just called and he said they want to have breakfast here before going out together." Jihoon makes his way out of their queen-sized bed and grabs his towel at the towel rail.

"What do you mean, they?" Seungcheol sits up straight, surprised by the sudden plan.

"It seems that Seungkwan wants to hang out with us and somehow, the others find out about it. It's better than staying here, doing nothing." Jihoon's voice muffled against the fabric of Seungcheol's shirt when he takes it off.

"I can do you, you know." Seungcheol tries to be seductive but fails instantly when Jihoon throws his shirt onto Seungcheol's face from across the room before disappearing behind the bathroom's door. Jihoon even lock the door, preventing Seungcheol from joining in and Seungcheol laughs wholeheartedly at Jihoon's adorable protest. Seungcheol stares at the shirt in his grip, the smell which belongs to his is now combined with Jihoon's and Seungcheol's heart suddenly becomes warm.

How time flies so fast, how the changes between him and Jihoon gradually take place. The day since he lays his eyes on Jihoon at the café he used to work part-time before, it feels like yesterday. Unbelievable is what Seungcheol would describe, but here they are now, madly in love with each other.

Enough reminiscing back their old memories, Seungcheol puts the shirt aside as he leans on the side of the bed to opens a drawer from the nightstand. He takes out somewhat like a small, red box before opening it. He observes every single detail of it as he caresses the matching platinum rings lovingly in appreciation. The rings looks simple without any distinctive characteristics    like gemstones or any setting style    but there are italic engravings on the inner side. One with Choi Seungcheol, one with Lee Jihoon.

Seungcheol smiles satisfyingly.

Jihoon is obsessed in getting matching items    like matching pair of shirts, matching pair of shoes, matching pair of men's bracelet, et cetera. And Seungcheol thinks it's about time for him to get them a matching pair of engagement rings. He knows what he feels is mutual and he knows Jihoon would love to take the next step in their relationship. He is confident about it and he can see a ray of hope when the platinum rings reflect the ray of sunlight, like a sign of support.

Seungcheol the platinum rings gently once again before shutting the box and putting it back in the drawer.

"It can wait until tonight. I'll propose to him then." Seungcheol says to himself and he rolls over the bed from west to east and back to the west as he can imagine Jihoon's reaction. Seungcheol stops on his doings when he suddenly looks at the white ceiling above him. He can imagine himself putting the ring onto Jihoon's ring finger and he starts to scream out of the overwhelming joy.

"Cheol-ie, you're okay?" Jihoon walks out of the bathroom while drying his wet hair with a towel. Seungcheol looks over at Jihoon as he finds the smaller only in his gray, three-quarter shorts.

"More than okay." Seungcheol smiles brightly, can't hide the happiness to himself and Jihoon looks at him in confusion.

"You're acting weird, you know that?"

"I know." Seungcheol beams his happiness at his blank boyfriend. "I love you, baby."

"Love you too. Now, please get up and get ready. They'll be here any minute." and Seungcheol nods obediently as he rolls over their messy bed one more time. Jihoon shakes his head in disbelief but what he feels is different from what he shows as he chuckles at his boyfriend's weird behavior.

I love him so much; I think I'm going crazy.

I actually want to write jicheol parent!au with hansol as their child, but okay... this might be the first step.