Hyukjae never liked the rain.

He never liked how it got the roads wet and sometimes muddy, dirtying his pants and shoes. He never liked how it causes traffic, preventing him from coming home after a long, tedious day at work.

Most of all, he never liked the cold feeling it brought him. For him, it was way worse than winter. Winters are white and beautiful and ethereal. Rain is gloomy clouds, damp clothes, and the cold that seeps through your bones.

He despised the rain.

Hyukjae learned to love the rain.

When he met Donghae, the rain became his reminder of the young man that brought color to his life.

Suddenly, the gloomy clouds didn't shadow his life anymore because Donghae's sunshine chased the darkness away.

The damp clothes were replaced with fluffy towels and sweatshirts that seemed a bit tight for him but they smelt like Donghae — sandalwood, and just the tiniest hint of lavender, so he wore them anyway.

And most importantly, the cold was burned away by the warmth of Donghae's arms wrapped around him as they listened to the pitter-patter of rain on the roof. It was replaced by the heat of the man's love that filled him to his very core. 

They cuddled and exchanged soft, giggle-filled kisses as they whispered ‘i love yous’ and sweet nothings between each other, admiring the way the water droplets slowly rivulet down the window, the lights from the quiet street outside reflecting on each drop.