Bobby frowned when he read the message from Hanbin.

guess who just found out who you are??

Even though when he’d asked, Hanbin had told him that he’d deal with Junhoe’s inevitable explosion towards Bobby’s identity and it wouldn’t get in the way of their dating, Bobby was still worried. Junhoe had been Hanbin’s best friend for almost his entire life. That would be like Bobby dating someone Jinhwan hated. It would never work.

Not that Junhoe had any grounds for hating him, but still. Was Hanbin really okay with them still dating despite Junhoe’s blowup? His phone buzzed with a new message from Hanbin.

you busy? can you chat for a bit?

Bobby definitely wanted to chat (he wanted more than a chat, and honestly it was hard to think about Hanbin without remembering the really hot kiss they’d had at the end of their date).

u wanna come over? since we r not busy now?

He figured it was a stretch, but any chance he could get to see Hanbin he’d take. He’d settle for a video chat if he couldn’t actually come for a visit.

yeah send me your address and i’ll come over!! might have to bring my chemistry book with me though cause i need to finish a reading

Bobby sat up excitedly at the accepted invitation.

awsum brign ur book an read here!!

He texted Hanbin his address, and Hanbin replied back right away and said he’d be over soon. Everyone was currently out (Bobby’s parents were visiting family and Jinhwan was having a trumpet lesson) so they even had the house to themselves for a bit.

Bobby started cleaning his room up, which mostly consisted of picking clothes up off the floor and stacking his books and video games neatly. He made his bed too, fixing the covers so it didn’t look sloppy.

He couldn’t believe he was going to have Hanbin at his place already! He thought again about Jiun’s warning of things moving too fast, but he waved it off.

Fifteen minutes after sending the message, Hanbin sent him a text saying that he was outside, and Bobby thought his heart might burst it was beating so fast. He buzzed Hanbin in and took a few deep breaths to calm down on his way to the door. Three minutes later there was a knock on the door and Bobby opened to find Hanbin in the hall, bag slung over his shoulder and wearing a Supreme snapback. Hanbin smiled at him and Bobby had to restrain himself from reaching out and poking his dimples.

, Hanbin was so cute!

“Hey, come in!” Bobby gestured him inside and Hanbin followed, stopping at the door to toe off his sneakers.

“Thanks for the invite,” Hanbin said, “Junhoe kinda bummed me out a bit more than I thought he would, so you’re a nice backup plan.”

Bobby grinned at him. For some reason Hanbin’s teasing joke (and physical presence) took away every concern Bobby had over whether or not things would end because Junhoe was being difficult.

“I’m just a backup plan?” He teased back, and Hanbin grinned at him.

“Is your family home?”

Bobby could feel himself blushing just a bit at the question. “Nope, just us for a bit, but they’ll be back later.”

Hanbin nodded and looked at him with an almost expectant expression, and for a moment all they did was stare at one another. Their stupor broke at the same time, though, and Bobby moved in to Hanbin’s space, reaching out to cup his cheeks as he leaned forward for a kiss.

Hanbin met him there, sliding his arms around Bobby’s back and happily meeting his lips for the kiss. It was soft and sweet and a tiny bit needy, and when they pulled back they both laughed just a bit.

It just felt so natural, Bobby thought, everything about Hanbin felt natural. It was a good feeling.

“Want a tour?”

Hanbin nodded and followed him as he took him through the house. They stopped in the kitchen to get some drinks, and that was when Hanbin made the first connection.

“Why are there so many pictures of Jinhwan on the fridge?” He asked, not bothered but just curious.

“Uh, actually to be honest I kinda forgot to tell you about that.” Bobby felt slightly nervous for a moment.

“About what?” Hanbin asked, looking up from a Polaroid shot of Jinhwan and a woman he assumed was Bobby’s mom--they had the same eyes.

“Jinhwan lives with me,” Bobby said, wishing he’d told Hanbin about it on their date, but it hadn’t really come up in conversation, “his family’s back on Jeju Island, so over the years he’s stayed with us any time he decides to spend a year on the mainland.”

To Bobby’s immense relief, Hanbin didn’t seem bothered by that at all. “That’s awesome! Well at least I hope it is. As much as I love Junhoe, I couldn’t imagine living with him.”

“Ah yeah, it’s good for us! Junhoe sounds like he’s way more work than Jinhwan is.” 

Hanbin nodded. “Junhoe’s probably more work than anyone has ever been. But it’s nice that Jinhwan has always had a home with your family. Must make the separation a lot easier. How come he doesn’t just stay on Jeju though?” Hanbin went back to looking at pictures. Bobby’s home felt very cozy, there were family pictures everywhere. Hanbin thought that was a good sign. Family was very important to him, so seeing that Bobby’s family was so close made him happy. 

“Originally he came to Seoul the first time for music,” Bobby launched into the explanation, “he was a bit of a child prodigy, he plays the trumpet, and there was a specific instructor his mom wanted him to train with. His grandpa came here with him, since his whole family still lives on the island. I met him at school; saved him from a bully and he told me I was his best friend. It felt so nice to hear that I didn’t bother arguing!” 

Hanbin looked back at Bobby while he told the story. “That’s probably the cutest friendship story I think I’ve ever heard?” It really was, and Hanbin didn’t even find it hard to believe. Bobby really seemed like the type of person who would stand up for anyone, and it made Hanbin that much more confident in how well they clicked, since he had the same sort of personality. 

Bobby grinned and moved closer to Hanbin, laying a hand on his shoulder while he pointed at a picture. “That’s our first Christmas as friends! He went back to Jeju during the break, but before he went he and his grandpa came over for dinner.”

Hanbin smiled at the picture--Bobby had been such a cute little kid! Jinhwan too was adorable. It was so weird to be seeing a picture of them as little kids, but it was nice. Without thinking about it he looped his arm around Bobby’s waist, pulling him a bit closer.

“The pictures are cute! I like how close your family is, it’s nice to know that.” He looked back at Bobby, smiling when he noticed that Bobby was blushing. 

It was hard for Bobby to pay attention to what Hanbin was saying—they were so close and the fact that Hanbin kept getting closer to him whenever possible made Bobby’s heart pound. Would he ever get used to it? It was almost like Hanbin couldn’t help himself from grabbing some part of Bobby (he’d been that way during their entire date on Friday) and while Bobby wasn’t used to it, he liked it. 

It was nice to feel wanted. 

“Why are you smiling like that?” Hanbin wasn’t used to having someone stare at him the way he kept catching Bobby staring. It made him feel a little self-conscious. When he’d dated Woosung he’d always felt like his eyes had been judging his appearance (which was apparently ridiculous, according to Junhoe, because as far as his best friend was concerned, Woosung hadn’t been anywhere near good looking enough for Hanbin) and while Bobby always had an almost dopey look on his face when he stared at him, Hanbin still couldn’t shake the insecurity. 

Bobby pecked his cheek before answering. “Because you’re the cutest person I’ve ever met, and I’m really happy I’m dating you.” God, Hanbin was turning him into such a sappy   dork! 

Hanbin laughed and shoved him away. “Ah, you must not have met many cute people. Anyway show me the rest of your house!” 

Bobby picked up his glass of Pepsi and made for the hallway. A second later and Hanbin was back at his side, one hand clutching Bobby’s arm. It made Bobby’s whole body feel warm. After showing him around Bobby finally brought Hanbin to his own bedroom, and he felt nervous when they walked in. Maybe he should have cleaned more? Would Hanbin think he was messy? 

But without a comment Hanbin walked into the room and dropped his backpack at the end of the bed, laid his glass on the bedside table, and then flopped face first onto Bobby’s bed. Once again all Bobby could do was stare. 

“I like your room!” Hanbin said, half muffled with his face in Bobby’s comforter. Like the entire house, it was comfortable and welcoming. It’s not that Hanbin’s house was cold and uninviting, but something about Bobby’s just gave off the impression that a dozen people could all live here together and be happy. It was hard to describe, but Hanbin felt at home already. 

Bobby flopped down next to Hanbin, fighting the urge to lay on top of him instead. “Thanks! Jinhwan and I used to share a room, but thankfully we don’t have to anymore.” 

“How come you got your own room?” Hanbin propped himself up on his elbow to look at Bobby. 

“My grandparents used to live with us too,” Bobby explained, “this is actually their place, we moved in with them when we came back from the US. But they moved in with my aunt two years ago, after her kids all got married and moved out. We were a little cramped with them, and my aunt was lonely. So it worked out! Everyone still comes over here for holidays, though, so we still end up having to room together during those times.” 

“I got that feeling about your place,” Hanbin said, “it feels like a lot of people gather here. It’s very welcoming and warm.” 

Bobby looked up to meet Hanbin’s eyes, and he knew Hanbin meant it honestly. It made Bobby feel good. “Thanks! You’re cool with meeting my parents later, right?” Bobby was excited to show Hanbin off to his family. 

“Yeah, of course! But that means you’ll have to come over to my place next time to meet my parents.” Hanbin replied, and Bobby grinned. 

“And your little sister!” Bobby said, excited about Hanbin’s younger sibling. 

“She already knows about you,” Hanbin admitted, “she saw you on my phone today, actually. Asked me who you were.” 

“Oh? What did you tell her?” Bobby admittedly had no idea how young was too young to tell kids about gay relationships. Would she even understand? 

“I told her you were my friend, and then she asked me if I kiss you.” Hanbin grinned, still amused at her reaction. 

Bobby was surprised. “Does she know?” 

“Know what?” Hanbin asked, unsure what Bobby meant. 

“That you’re gay?” 

“Oh, that, yeah. Well as much as a four year old can understand. She’s just at the age where she’s making those personal connections and starting to understand what they mean.” 

Bobby nodded, still curious. “How did you tell her?” He’d agonized over telling his older brother (which Jiun had chastised him for, insulted that Bobby had thought he might not support him). 

“I just let her ask me when she put it all together. I dated a guy before you, Woosung, and she saw me with him a few times. But she wasn’t really old enough to notice that I was the only guy she ever saw kissing another guy. But then when she saw my picture with you, she guessed what it all meant. Then she just asked me why I kiss boys.” 

“What did you tell her? Must have been a difficult conversation.” Bobby couldn’t even begin to imagine how you’d explain it to a kid. They’d probably have a million questions. Hanbin laughed at him though, and Bobby was confused. “Why are you laughing?” 

“It wasn’t difficult at all!” Hanbin grinned. “I told her that I kiss boys because I like them, and then told her that when she’s older she can kiss whoever she wants. She said she hopes she kisses girls cause boys are gross.” 

Bobby was floored at how simple it had been. “That easy? Your parents didn’t sit her down and have a big talk about it or anything?” 

Hanbin shook his head. “Nope, and even if she had asked me in front of them, I don’t think they would have made an ordeal out of it. If you don’t treat it like it’s a big deal, then she won’t treat it like it’s a big deal, and she’ll think it’s normal. I don’t want her to think it’s something that needs a lot of explanation.” 

“That makes sense,” Bobby replied, and he was impressed that Hanbin’s family had that outlook, “I wish we’d done that with my little cousins. They’re six and eight, and they treat me like I’m weird because of it. Probably wouldn’t have happened if it had been explained that simply to them.” 

“Yeah, kids are pretty easy. I know she’ll probably have more questions as she gets older, so I don’t want her to feel like she can’t ask me, you know?” 

Bobby was all smiles again listening to Hanbin talk about his sister. “It sounds like you’re really close to her.” 

“I am, she’s my favourite person in the entire world.” Hanbin replied, winking at Bobby. “You’ll have to settle for being number two, well, three, Junhoe would be pissed if I ranked you above him already!” 

“You can rank me above him for today at least, can’t you? Since he’s being a jerk?” Bobby teasingly pleaded, wiggling himself closer to Hanbin on the bed. 

“Hm, I don’t know, do you think you’ve earned the number two spot?” Hanbin , laying back flat on the bed as Bobby got closer. Hanbin wasn’t submissive by any stretch of the imagination, but there was something about Bobby that made him feel an odd sort of contentment in laying back and letting Bobby make the moves right now. Hanbin really wanted to make out with him, but he wanted Bobby to initiate it. 

Bobby was more than happy to initiate, and when Hanbin laid back Bobby took it as the invitation it was. “I think I can convince you,” Bobby said, propping himself up on one arm right at Hanbin’s side, careful eyes on Hanbin’s face. Hanbin wanted him to get close, didn’t he? Bobby was sure it was an invitation, and he tried to go into it full of confidence (even though he was actually a little nervous). He slid over Hanbin, one knee on each side of him, and it was kind of crazy how much the move turned him on. 

Bobby couldn’t help but feel slightly embarrassed at how quickly his got hard, and he hoped that Hanbin wouldn’t laugh at him (it should be a compliment, right?). He put most of his weight on his forearms, not wanting to crush Hanbin’s chest, leaning down until there was barely any room between them.

Hanbin was in exactly the same predicament as Bobby, wishing he’d worn jeans instead of sweatpants and grateful that Bobby at least couldn’t see it. Whatever. They were young, they were supposed to get by each other, right?! Hanbin felt almost short of breath when Bobby got close, and even though he’d told himself he wouldn’t make any moves at all, he couldn’t help but reach out and loop his arms around Bobby’s back, pulling his body down against his own and the first thing Hanbin felt was Bobby’s poking into his hip. 

Well, at least he wasn’t alone.

Bobby leaned his face down and brushed his lips over Hanbin’s, an electric pulse shooting through him when Hanbin’s arms wrapped around him tightly. Bobby prodded at Hanbin’s lips with his tongue, trying to be a little gentle but it was so ing difficult! Hanbin’s lips parted and he met Bobby’s tongue with his own, and they kissed that way for a few minutes, Bobby on top and in control and Hanbin responding eagerly, arms holding Bobby tightly in place. 

Bobby pulled back for a breather, flushed and panting. He didn’t even care anymore that his was digging into Hanbin’s stomach (because he could feel Hanbin’s against his leg) and he swore he could stay here and stare at Hanbin like this all day long! 

“Am I number two yet?” Bobby asked, leaning on one arm to free up the other, laying his palm against Hanbin’s cheek, thumb brushing softly over the skin. Hanbin was all smiles at the contact, dimpled cheeks making him look way too cute as far as Bobby was concerned. There was no way someone as perfect as Hanbin belonged with him. No way! 

“Yeah, you are,” Hanbin answered softly, “for today at least! I think I might need daily proof, though.” God, Bobby was perfect! Hanbin couldn’t believe how lucky he’d gotten. Junhoe would come around eventually. For now Hanbin would just focus on how amazing his boyfriend was. 

“I’ll give you all the daily proof you want!” Bobby replied, leaning down to kiss Hanbin’s neck this time, emboldened by his response. Hanbin actually sighed out loud at the contact, which went right to Bobby’s . He probed at the skin with his tongue, and he must have found a weak spot because suddenly Hanbin was wrapping his legs around Bobby’s back, arching up against him, and Bobby was certain he might come from that alone! 

Unfortunately the excitement didn’t last. 

“Ah, Hanbin, your guard position needs a little work!” 

Bobby immediately shot upright, looking over his shoulder. There, leaning against the doorframe and wearing an irritatingly smug look, stood Jinhwan. 

“Oh, don’t let me interrupt you! Things seemed to be heating up and I always wanted to watch a live .” Jinhwan grinned and remained in the door, arms crossed casually over his chest. 

Bobby reached behind him, grabbing a pillow and throwing it at him. “ off, Jinan!” Bobby wanted to curse him for multiple reasons--not only had he just interrupted them at the worst possible time, but if he’d embarrassed Hanbin-- 

“Ah, to be young and so easily !” Jinhwan teased further, eyes swooping obviously back and forth between Bobby and Hanbin. 

Bobby groaned and finally climbed off of Hanbin, angry glare directed at Jinhwan. “To think, just earlier I told him how nice it was, living with you.” 

“That’s what you get for lying to him!” Jinhwan joked, not bothered in the slightest. Maybe it was a little cruel, but in all honesty he kind of wanted to test Hanbin’s personality, and interrupting them mid-makeout was a good start for his experiment. 

Hanbin’s heart was racing at the interruption. On one hand--it was cruel, the timing had been terrible! But on the other hand--maybe an interruption had been good. They’d hopped into an intense makeout so quickly, maybe a breather would be good? But he couldn’t help but be nervous. As much as he’d been telling himself all week that Jinhwan was probably a really nice guy and that he’d get along with him whenever he got to meet him, now that he was standing right here in front of him, his expression smug and calculating, Hanbin couldn’t help but feel bristled. 

He thought about Junhoe. This must have been how he’d felt right before the fight. 

Jinhwan smiled at Hanbin, intentionally making it as intimidating as he could. “Seriously, Hanbin, you should really put that thing away.” Jinhwan winked at him, grinning when Hanbin’s face turned beet red and he drew his knees up to hide the tent in his pants. 

Bobby was on his feet in an instant, grabbing Jinhwan by the shoulder and pushing him into the hall. “What the ?!” Bobby hissed at him, angry at Jinhwan for the way he’d reacted to Hanbin. So much for a good first impression? 

“Calm down,” Jinhwan replied, grinning at his best friend, “I’m just teasing you guys.” Bobby backed off and Jinhwan looked at Hanbin again, pleased that he hadn’t reacted in an angry outburst. First test was a success! 

“You have really crappy timing!” Bobby replied, still glaring at Jinhwan. 

“Okay, you guys take five minutes to get yourselves together, then come entertain me in the living room!” Jinhwan waved at a still blushing Hanbin before winking at Bobby and heading down the hall to his bedroom. 

Bobby took a deep breath before turning back to Hanbin, who was sitting on the edge of the bed. 

“Hey, I’m really sorry about that, I don’t know what the his problem is? He’s never done that before.” Bobby walked over to Hanbin, worried about his reaction. Jinhwan was usually really nice when he had guys over, giving him privacy and not doing anything to potentially embarrass him. 

“Ah, it’s okay,” Hanbin replied, “better to be interrupted by Jinhwan than your parents, right?” 

“Good point.” Bobby stood in front of him, concerned eyes on Hanbin. Was he embarrassed after Jinhwan’s intrusion? He was still blushing. 

Hanbin looked up at Bobby, and when he saw how worried Bobby looked it made him smile. “Really, it’s okay!” Hanbin stood up and reached for Bobby’s hands. “Actually maybe it’s good he interrupted when he did.” Hanbin moved in closer, right until their bodies were touching, and Bobby couldn’t stop the shiver from running down his limbs. 

“Mm, I guess things did get pretty hot,” Bobby replied, sliding one hand over Hanbin’s hip and settling in the small of his back, “weren’t you supposed to be studying chemistry or something?” 

“Something like that,” Hanbin answered, running one of his hands over Bobby’s chest, breath hitching when Bobby’s hand slid down further to cup his , “I’m sure we’ll pick that up sometime.” 

“I’ll make sure I lock the door.” Bobby said, biting his lip when Hanbin straddled one of his legs. Well, at least the momentary embarrassment of Jinhwan’s interruption didn’t seem to be putting Hanbin off.

“I’ll remind you if you forget.” Hanbin replied, leaning forward to press his lips against Bobby’s. Bobby let go of Hanbin’s other hand, trailing his fingers up Hanbin’s arm until he could slide them around the back of Hanbin’s neck. 

Kissing Hanbin felt so good! 

Just then Bobby’s phone went off, and he pulled back from Hanbin and groaned. 

“We’re coming, Jinan!” 

Hanbin grinned at Bobby’s yell. “Was that him calling you?” Bobby nodded, and Hanbin laughed. 

“Hanbin, before we go out,” Bobby reached for Hanbin’s hands again, “I am really sorry he interrupted. I hope you’re not mad at him?” 

Hanbin smiled and shook his head, touched that Bobby seemed to be so concerned. “You forget that Junhoe is my best friend. That was nothing! It was just unexpected, since it was our first time meeting each other.” 

Bobby felt relieved at the answer. “Good! I was just worried, since Junhoe took it so badly. Jinan’s actually been really supportive of me dating you, so I was surprised that he acted like that.” 

“Probably just testing me.” Hanbin answered, squeezing Bobby’s hands. 

“Probably.” Bobby kissed him quickly before leading him out of the room and back down the hall to the living room, where Jinhwan was stretched out on the couch, TV remote in one hand. 

“Oh good, you’re here! You missed the opening acts, but Bobby! Your favourite is a guest MC this week!” Jinhwan grinned at Bobby’s annoyed expression. 

“Who’s that?” Hanbin asked, curious eyes on Jinhwan. 

“Song Minho!” Jinhwan answered, laughing when Bobby glared at him. 

“Ah, the good rapper in Winner?” Hanbin asked, his voice teasing. 

“Don’t listen to him! I think he’s got a great voice, and his solo track in their album was really good.” Bobby was going to kill Jinhwan! One time he’d said he thought Minho was hot. Once! 

“That track was hot, I like it.” Hanbin said reassuringly. 

“Bobby thinks Minho’s hot too!” Jinhwan teased. 

“Whatever, don’t listen to him, he’s attracted to Nam Taehyun!” Bobby could tease back, though. 

“Shh! Don’t take my future husband’s name in vain.” Jinhwan replied with a grin. He wasn’t that into the guy, no more than Bobby was mildly attracted to Minho, but he wasn’t about to let Bobby without playing into it. “I mean look at them! They’re on the screen right now! Taehyun is definitely better looking. What do you think, Hanbin?” 

Hanbin met Jinhwan’s gaze, wondering if this was some kind of test. “Honestly I think Jinwoo is the best looking one in that group.” Jinhwan nodded, but said nothing, and Hanbin wondered what he was thinking? 

“A safe answer!” Jinhwan finally replied before turning back to the screen. There was some new girl group on now that had debuted recently. He turned it up because he liked the song. 

“Ugh, any reason why you turned this up?” Bobby asked, sinking down onto the loveseat and pulling Hanbin down next to him. 

“I like it!” Jinhwan shot back, turning it up again just to annoy Bobby. “What do you think, Hanbin? It’s not bad, right?” 

Hanbin was certain Jinhwan was testing him now. “To be honest, I’m not familiar with it.” He wasn’t. 

“Fine, but it’s fun sounding, right?” Jinhwan pressed, curious if Hanbin would just go along with Bobby’s opinion or if he’d form his own. 

Hanbin listened to the music for a bit before answering, because if Jinhwan was testing him, then he might as well give him an honest answer. 

Bobby looked at Jinhwan and shook his head, trying to silently ask him what he was doing. Jinhwan just smirked at him, and Bobby felt like strangling him. 

“Honestly, it actually is kind of fun,” Hanbin answered, “the more I listen to it, the more I like it. It’s not something I’d pick out, but I won’t turn it off.” 

Jinhwan’s smirk grew even more obnoxious at Hanbin’s answer, and Bobby rolled his eyes. “You don’t have to humour him, Hanbin!” 

“Yes he does!” Jinhwan replied. Hanbin was passing all of his tests so far, at least. 

“I don’t mind.” Hanbin answered, smiling at Bobby and reaching out to take his hand. Bobby smiled back at him, pleased that Hanbin didn’t seem intimidated by Jinhwan’s questions. 

Jinhwan thought they were cute together. There was a natural chemistry there that was hard to fake, and it made him happy to see it. As cute as Hanbin had looked in the few pictures he’d seen, Jinhwan thought he was infinitely better looking in person. There was a sort of regal look to his face, he looked like he came from royalty. It was kind of romantic, really. 

That wouldn’t stop him from putting Hanbin to more personality tests, though, because Jinhwan made a habit of looking out for Bobby. His best friend was a little too nice and naive, and Jinhwan was always worried that someone would take advantage of him when he actually got serious. He didn’t think Hanbin was the type to do that, but better to be sure. People could be deceiving. 

“Are you seriously gonna make us watch Inkigayo?” Bobby complained, mostly just for the sake of it. 

“Oh I’m sorry, do you have something better to do?” Jinhwan asked, pointedly looking at Hanbin before looking back at Bobby. 

“I was doing it, before you interrupted.” Bobby grumbled back. 

“Oh I’m so sorry!” Jinhwan apologized, obviously not meaning a word of it. “If you didn’t want to be interrupted you wouldn’t have left your door open. Was that supposed to be an invitation?” 

Bobby huffed at the question, still baffled by Jinhwan’s behaviour. Hanbin, however, couldn’t help but grin and laugh at the question. He still wasn’t sure what Jinhwan’s game plan was, but he didn’t find him quite so intimidating anymore. He and Junhoe made a sport out of verbal attacks, after all, so he was used to the playful sort of banter that Jinhwan was making at the moment. 

“It was an invitation to join, not an invitation to stand there and mock us,” Hanbin replied, smiling sweetly at Jinhwan. 

Jinhwan’s expression was confused for a moment before settling into an appreciative grin. Alright. Hanbin could hold his own apparently! That was a good sign. Not that he wanted Bobby to date someone who would challenge him all the time, but he didn’t want him to date a pushover either. Something in between. 

Bobby looked in confusion between Hanbin and Jinhwan. Was this a challenge? Was there some unspoken battle of wills going on? Bobby wasn’t one for that sort of thing, he preferred being honest and upfront and to the point. But maybe he’d let things go a bit longer, give them a chance to feel each other out. As long as neither of them seemed upset, maybe it would be okay. 

“So, Hanbin, you’re younger, right?” Jinhwan asked, his tone light and casual, but his smile still a little too sharp. Hanbin nodded, and Jinhwan was amused by the suspicion in his gaze. “Then feel free to call me hyung. As the youngest one here, I think you should do something nice for me!” 

Bobby was going to murder him! 

“Like what, hyung?” Hanbin asked, playing along for fun. He remembered Bobby’s confused comment about how Jinhwan had been supportive of their relationship. If Jinhwan was truly that concerned, he wouldn’t have been supportive all week, would he? He was clearly just playfully trying to feel him out right now. 

“Rub my feet!” Jinhwan made the request not just to see how Hanbin would react to it, but also to tease Bobby. He wouldn’t actually accept a foot rub from Hanbin. Not on their first meeting, at least. 

“Jinan!” Bobby yelled, and if he’d had something within reach he’d have thrown it. 

Hanbin bit the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing. There was a playful gleam in Jinhwan’s eye that told Hanbin that his assumption was correct. “Ah hyung, but I’m your guest, so shouldn’t I be the one who gets the foot rub?” 

“No one is rubbing anyone’s feet!” Bobby interrupted, looking back and forth between the two of them. 

Hanbin couldn’t help but laugh, and he cuddled into Bobby. “Does oppa want a foot rub instead?” Hanbin teased, playful smile directed at Bobby. 

Jinhwan laughed as well at Hanbin’s question, and that settled it—Hanbin had his approval. He wasn’t about to say it out loud just yet, though. 

“Ooh okay, stop talking, I love this Teen Top song!” Jinhwan turned the TV back up, grinning at the annoyed groan he could hear from Bobby. He snuck a glance at Hanbin, pleased to see that he was paying attention to the TV again, though he was still cuddled up against Bobby. Hanbin seemed to be settled comfortably so far, engaging in conversation confidently, but without being aggressive or disrespectful. Jinhwan was liking him more with every second that passed. Bobby had really hit the jackpot with Hanbin! 

Bobby was feeling a little out of sorts, honestly, annoyed that Jinhwan was forcing them to watch this idol music show, and annoyed that Jinhwan and Hanbin seemed to take to teasing one another so easily. Which was stupid—shouldn’t that make him happy? They were getting along, or at least he thought they were? It was still a little confusing. 

But then Hanbin pressed a quick kiss to his chin and wrapped his arm around him and Bobby melted at the touch. Okay, maybe he was just being grumpy because Jinhwan had interrupted them mid-makeout. That was probably it. He wrapped his own arm around Hanbin and hugged him close and suddenly the song playing on the TV sounded a little bit sweeter to his ears. 

Jinhwan left them alone for a bit, content to watch them cuddling in silence. Bobby wasn’t really the type who showed his affection much, but Hanbin seemed to bring it out of him. Jinhwan thought that was important. He wanted to see Bobby with someone who could light his face up in a smile just from a touch, and Bobby was beaming now that Hanbin was nestled up under his arm. This was honestly almost better than watching a movie, because even though they were a little over the top, it didn’t feel cheesy in person. It felt happy and pleasant and romantic.

It wasn’t long before the front door was opening, and Hanbin sat up straighter to get a look. It was a woman, and he recognized her face from the picture on the fridge.

“Jiwon-ah, come and help me!”

Bobby got up and Hanbin watched him, no complaint as he went to help his mother bring in groceries. He could hear Bobby telling his mom that he had a visitor, and she sounded excited when he said it was the boyfriend. There was something sweet about being called that in front of Bobby’s family. Hanbin looked across at Jinhwan, who was staring at him again. Hanbin thought they were okay, but something about Jinhwan was still a little confusing and uncertain.

“Alright Jiwon hurry with those bags, I want to meet this new boyfriend of yours!” Bobby’s mom was back, and Hanbin watched as she leaned down to peck Jinhwan on the cheek and ask about his trumpet lesson. Hanbin thought it was nice, the way she treated him like one of her own.

“Ah, you must be Hanbin, then!”

Hanbin stood up when she approached, bowing in her direction and reaching out to shake her offered hand. Bobby had her smile, and Hanbin felt welcome already.

“Yes, it’s nice to meet you, Mrs. Kim.”

“Jiwon wasn’t exaggerating, you are handsome!” She gushed, laying a palm against his cheek. “Such a regal look! My Jiwonie’s little prince, huh?”

“Mom! Don’t embarrass him.” Bobby said, coming up behind her to give her a hug.

“He’s not embarrassed, are you? Must be used to compliments, huh? I hope my son compliments you often?” She teased, and Bobby blushed. Hanbin thought it was cute (if slightly embarrassing) but he’d gladly take it.

“Ah, thank you!” Hanbin bowed again, and she smiled back at him.

“So polite, too! My Jiwon really found himself a nice boy, didn’t you baby?”

Hanbin grinned as he watched Bobby’s mom fuss over him. Bobby accepted it but tried to complain (Hanbin thought it was probably just for show, though).

“Now all we need is for our Jinhwanie to find himself a nice boy too, and then I’ll be a happy mom!”

Jinhwan grinned and looked back at Hanbin. “Know any hot guys you can hook me up with?”

Hanbin grinned back. “I do, the only problem is that he hates you.” Jinhwan looked confused for a moment before realizing that Hanbin was talking about Junhoe.

“Oh is he gay too? No wonder he kept letting me mount him in that first round.”

“Jinan!” Bobby yelled, wary of making any sort of ual innuendos in front of his mother.

But she just laughed and ruffled Jinhwan’s hair. “Oh, you! Hanbin, will you be staying for dinner? You’re more than welcome! I’m making kimchi soup.”

Hanbin looked briefly at Bobby, who nodded at him hopefully.

“I’d love to stay for dinner, thank you for the invitation!”

“Wonderful! Jiwon, come help me in the kitchen for a bit!” She headed out of the room, and Bobby gave Hanbin one last smile before following her, leaving Hanbin alone with Jinhwan.

“Hanbin, come sit over here.” Jinhwan patted the couch next to him and looked at him expectantly. Hanbin figured it must be time for a lecture, and he obediently did as Jinhwan asked. He wanted to keep things positive between them.

“Alright kid, listen up.” Jinhwan’s tone turned serious. “Bobby has been my best friend for nine years, so I wanted to let you in on something, and I want you to pay attention.”

Hanbin nodded. “I’m listening, hyung.”

“In the entire time that I’ve known him, I’ve honestly never seen him as ridiculous and happy as he’s been since he met you. I don’t know what it is, but he’s absolutely crazy over you. So don’t it up, please, he’d be heartbroken and then I’d have to break your legs.” Jinhwan’s expression and demeanour had softened with the commentary, and Hanbin knew he’d been correct in guessing that Jinhwan had just been testing him.

“Thanks, hyung. I really like him too, so I don’t want to screw anything up.”

Jinhwan smiled at his response. “Good! I know we just met, but I really like you so far, Hanbin. You bring out some good things in Bobby, and you’re fun to have around. I know I’m older than you, but I hope you and I can be friends anyway.”

Hanbin was touched by the request, and he nodded. “Of course, hyung!”

“Good! I know your friend’s giving you grief over dating Bobby, so I don’t want you to feel like you’ve got two people against you.”

Jinhwan’s comment touched Hanbin more deeply than he’d expected, and he stubbornly blinked a tear back. “Thanks, hyung! Junhoe will come around eventually, I know it. He just has a really closed off personality, so he has a hard time with new people. I know he’ll like Bobby when he meets him.” Whether or not he liked Jinhwan would remain to be seen. If Hanbin could get them together and Jinhwan could refrain from teasing him, they might have a chance.

“I’ll try to not be around when that happens.” Jinhwan replied with a grin.

“I’ll work him in slowly!” Hanbin replied. “Can I ask you a question, hyung?”

“Ask away.”

Now that the tension had been settled between them, Hanbin felt as though he could ask Jinhwan anything and get an honest answer. “Did you interrupt us earlier as a test? To see how I’d react?”

Jinhwan grinned and broke into laughter at the question. “Guilty! Usually I don’t give new crushes such a hard time, but Bobby fell for you really hard and I was feeling a little protective. I hope you don’t mind?”

Hanbin shook his head. “Of course not! Actually, I guess I’m kind of happy you did? It’s good to know that you’re looking out for him. It’s good to have friends willing to do that.” While the method would certainly be different, Hanbin found it kind of funny that Junhoe was probably going to do the same thing with Bobby when he eventually met him. They were both protective. Hanbin wondered if they had anything else unexpected in common.

“I leave the room for a minute and you’re already making a move on him?” Bobby returned, sporting a grin as he carried a plate of snacks.

“Just making sure he knows his place, right Hanbin?” Jinhwan jokingly replied, and Hanbin nodded.

“He read me the riot act.”

“Oh did he?” Bobby laughed and put the plate down.

“He took it well, though, so Hanbin’s got my approval!” Jinhwan said, serious eyes on Bobby.

“Ah so I’m officially allowed to date him now?” Bobby teased back, sitting down next to Hanbin.

“It’s official! You may now resume being a disgustingly in love dork, and I promise that if I ever walk by your room and see you two making out again, I’ll quietly close the door and leave you to it.” He winked at Bobby and nudged Hanbin.

“Couldn’t ask for more, right?” Hanbin replied, smiling at Jinhwan before looking back at Bobby.

“We’ll let him think that,” Bobby teased, “I brought cookies mom made, so help yourself! She’ll probably ask you about them at dinner so make sure you eat some.”

“I’ll never turn down a cookie,” Hanbin replied, reaching forward to grab one before settling back against Bobby’s chest.

“So Hanbin, Bobby said that you’re into boxing?” Jinhwan prompted, ready to discuss more personal matters now.

“Yeah, I am! I’ve been training since I was a kid. My dad and I actually train at the same gym together.”

Jinhwan’s expression faltered slightly at the answer, but he was quick to smile again. “That’s awesome, must be nice to train with him! Do you guys ever spar with each other?”

Hanbin nodded, not picking up on Jinhwan’s momentary shift in attitude. “Yeah, we have. Not often, cause he’s bigger than I am, but we’ve done it a few times. He actually knocked me out by accident once.” Both Jinhwan and Bobby laughed at the story. “To be fair, I was really tired, so he just landed a lucky shot.”

“So when do I get to see you in action?” Bobby asked, curious if Hanbin competed or just trained.

“I have a competition coming up in two weeks,” Hanbin answered, “you can come watch me kick some there.”

Bobby was excited at the news, and it came out in his voice. “Definitely! I haven’t watched a lot of boxing, so I’m excited to learn more!”

“Can I come too?” Jinhwan asked, curious to see Hanbin fight.

“Sure! It’s only a few hours, I’ll have two fights, one of which will hopefully be a final match. I’ve done pretty good in my last few tournaments.” Hanbin couldn’t wait to fight in front of Bobby. He took boxing very seriously, and he was very good at it. It would be nice to have someone new to impress.

“Nice to see we have another winner in the group!” Jinhwan joked, and at that comment Hanbin’s face blanked.

“What’s wrong?” Bobby asked, confused by the sudden shift.

“Ah, , it’s just that… Junhoe’s gonna be there too.”

“Ah, you’re worried about us meeting again?” Jinhwan asked, and Hanbin nodded. “I promise I’ll be nice.”

Hanbin frowned, feeling terrible. Now that he’d made friends with Jinhwan, he really did want him to come. But two weeks was a very short period of time in which to get Junhoe anywhere close to comfortable with Jinhwan there. “Hyung please! There’s a good chance he might be rude to you.”

That just made Jinhwan grin wider. “That’s fine, nothing I can’t handle. Honestly I can’t wait to see him again! I’ll be as polite as possible, I swear.”

“Actually that might just piss him off even more…”

Bobby slid his arm around Hanbin’s shoulders, squeezing him closer. “It’ll be okay, Bin! Maybe I should meet Junhoe first, let him get comfortable with me? Then I can be the mediator when they’re together and you’re fighting?”

Hanbin sighed in resignation. “Ah I guess it’s gonna have to do.”

It was going to be a long two weeks.