Donghae asks the Parks. About Hyukjae visiting everyday.

They're pleased.

It takes a while for Donghae though. To get used to it. That hour or more of separation. But then he realizes... he needed this. He can use this time.

So he makes slight changes to his schedule.  For meetings or workout days. He matches them with the times Grandma Park could see Hyukjae.

-----

"Remember, baby, you have to tell Mrs. Park you only have about an hour--"

"So she lets me go straight to Mama Saeron and doesn't ask me questions!"

"Yes, good, and if she asks you anything--"

"I don't talk about being a mannequin because she won't understand and she could get worried!"

"Y-Yeah, and if she asks about what you do--"

"I am Donghae's art model and assistant!"

Donghae laughs. "Yes, you got it."

"I'm gonna read to Mama Saeron today!"

Donghae glances at the book held to his chest. He's checked twice. To be sure it's not one of his works. It's not. Well. One can't read drawings out to people.

"Are you going to kiss me like in that movie?"

"Sorry?" Donghae says. Closes the car door after Hyukjae. Takes his hand. Donghae's been accompanying him to the Parks' door.

"Like in that movie," Hyukjae says. Smiles. Swings their hands. "They kiss at the door every time they separate."

Donghae chuckles. Adorable. He doesn't know what movie. Maybe Hyukjae watched it before. In those days when he'd still turn back to mannequin. When Donghae needed to keep him occupied as his hours got longer. So he could get some work done too.

"I can," Donghae says. Pauses in front of the Parks' door. "But first, can you give me a kiss?"

Hyukjae squeaks. Pulls Donghae's face closer. Presses a loud kiss on his mouth. 

"Mmmmwah!"

"Thanks," Donghae says. Smooches him too. "I love you. I'll come pick you up in about an hour and a half, okay? You have the phone I gave you?"

"Yes!" Hyukjae pulls it out of his pocket.

"Good, this will ring, okay? Then I'll come to the door."

"Okay!"

Donghae gives him another kiss. "You're amazing, Hyukkie. Bye, sweetheart."

"Bye, baby! You're amazing too!"

----

Since the first week... Donghae's been leaving before Mrs. Park could open the door. It's because... he wants to avoid any talk. They'll ask why he's not visiting. When he can come for dinner. For a cup of coffee. Whatever.

He doesn't want questions. About them. Hyukjae. Grandma Park. Himself. Donghae doesn't want to lie. He doesn't have his lies perfected. 

Hyukjae's tearful whenever Donghae picks him up. Mrs. Park seems sorry. That has worked in Donghae's favour. Because she doesn't ask Donghae to come in. Or Hyukjae to stay longer. She does not want them to feel burdened.

The reason Hyukjae gets tearful is because...

Grandma Park still gets upset... whenever Hyukjae has to leave.

Hyukjae's sad too when they get home. But day by day... he doesn't cry as badly.

So Donghae thinks it's okay. Thinks everything is getting better.

----

"Hyukkie, baby, is this the one you tried last time?" Donghae says. He's holding up a box of cereal.

They're out grocery shopping. Hyukjae's been going outside more. Because he can stay alive all day. So this feels safe.

Hyukjae nods happily. Pushes the shopping cart back towards him. He's always too excited when they shop. Too curious.

Donghae quickly holds his arm. Before Hyukjae can wheel too far.

"Not too fast, sweetheart, okay?" Donghae says. "I don't want you getting lost... always stay with me."

"Oh, I'm sorry," Hyukjae says. Slows down. "Would you make my phone ring if you lose me? Would it help you find me again?"

"Yes, that's a good idea, but let's make sure we won't need to do that."

Hyukjae nods. Serious. "Okay. I don't want to make you scared and worried."

Donghae stops. Smiles. Kisses his cheek. "I love you, baby..."

"Me too! So much!"

"Thank you, sweetheart. Now, where's that bear honey jar you wanted..."

Please Subscribe to read the full chapter