The streets were all covered in a thick blanket of pure white snow, rays of light dotting it from the hanging lights nearby. Soft music filled each alley and passage as each store played its own little tune. Signs indicating different sales and offers hung in the windows; presents tied up neatly and stacked. Taemin stood in front of a shop, looking at all the different Christmas cakes decorating the windowsill. Although there were still a few weeks to Christmas, everyone seemed ready. The weather was colder now and Taemin was dressed appropriately. He had recently went out and bought some nicer clothes, lacking the items due to the lack of the occasion. Minho had invited him out to dinner to one of his favourite restaurants. Taemin had gotten a monthly allowance from his working parents for living and educational expenses with a little on the side for other activities. Since Taemin didn’t leave his house often, he had a lot of money saved up for a rainy day. He was wrapped up in a thick, warm jacket and scarf, a hat pulled over his head. It wasn’t until recently when Taemin met Minho that he actually began going outside again. Whenever he did go outside, it was to the park. It’d had been a long time since he had gone to the center of the packed city. He wanted to embrace this foreign buzzing atmosphere. As he made his way through the large crowds, he noticed a familiar hand waving. Accompanied by a smile, Minho made his way over, his hand finding its way into Taemin’s hair. He pulled the younger boy to his chest, hugging him with one arm before turning them around and leading him back to where he came from. He opened the door and held it open for Taemin, leading him in to where an older woman checked their reservations and took their coats. They were showed to their table where they sat down and were given the menu. “Thanks for coming.” Minho smiled. “What are you saying? You invited me out to dinner so obviously I’m going to come.” Taemin commented. Minho chuckled and stretched out his arm, hitting Taemin on the top of the head with the folded menu. “It’s like a date.” Taemin looked down and blushed, looking around from the corners of his eyes before looking back up. “Geez, you’re so embarrassing to be with Hyung!” He grabbed for one of the glasses of water on the table, sipping from it. “What? You don’t want to date me?” Minho placed his fisted hands under his chin, pouting as he tilted his head. He remembered how he lied about dating Minho to Jiyong a while back. He hoped Minho would never meet Jiyong and his lie wouldn’t blow up in his face, forcing him to make excuses at the why he said what he did. “No, Hyung. You’re gross.” Taemin said through a smile. Minho he tongue jokingly in an angry manner. “Tch, you’re horrible.” An older aged man in an expensive looking black suit approached the table, smiling as his eyes met Minho. “Ah, Minho, nice to see you again. I see you’ve brought a friend.” Minho turned his upper body to face the man, bowing his head. “Hello, it’s nice to see you again. Yes, I brought my friend Taemin along this time.” His hand gestured towards Taemin. When Taemin spotted the action, he immediately bowed. “Hello.” The older man smiled towards the boy, his attention back to Minho. “You usually come here alone. It’s nice to see you with someone for a change. So what can I get you this snowy evening?” Minho looked at the menu and listed the dishes as if from memory. Taemin was quickly skimming over the menu while Minho was speaking. He was unfamiliar with all these dishes and unfamiliar with these high prices. He finally looked up when he caught two pairs of eyes staring at him, expecting an answer. He felt slightly embarrassed not knowing what any of the meals were. Finally, as if just in time, Minho spoke up. “Taemin, do you want to try the things I’ve ordered? If you like them, we can always order more.”
“Of course.” The gentleman added. Taemin nodded. Minho looked back up. “Alright, so just add another coke to that.” The man nodded as he collected their menus and walked off. “I’m sorry. I’ve never been to a place like this.” Taemin apologized. “That’s totally fine. You’ll just have to try everything to figure out what you like best.” Taemin nodded before resting his elbow on the table, his chin nudging into his palm. “You don’t bring friends here?” Taemin spoke up. Minho nodded. “Yeah. It’s a place I prefer to come to alone. It just has a calm and quiet atmosphere, you know? It’s really enjoyable.” Taemin looked around the room. It was true. It was quiet and most people there were well-dressed adults. “Then why bring me?” Taemin questioned. Minho shrugged. “I don’t know. I was just in the mood for a good meal and when I was deciding on coming here, you came to mind. It’s fine, right?” Taemin hummed in agreement. Their meal arrived soon after, the waiter setting the dishes presentably around the table. It didn’t take long for Minho to begin eating; smiling the moment his taste buds reacted to the food. Taemin looked at the newly introduced foods, trying something from each. “So, do you have any plans for Christmas yet?” Taemin shook his head. “Haven’t thought about it. There’s still loads of time.” Minho lifted a piece of chicken with his chopsticks and brought it to his lips, dropping it into his mouth as he chewed and swallowed. “Not really. It’s a few weeks away. If you don’t plan ahead everything will be booked and everyone will be busy. Places are already getting filled up.” Taemin shrugged, searching for what to try next. “I guess. I mean, I don’t even know if my parents are coming home for Christmas this year. They usually do, but every few years they have to stay wherever they are and work. It’s not that important anyways. Whether they do come or not, Christmas is spent at home.” He opened his mouth as Minho leaned in closer to feed him an interestingly tasting slice of meat. “Well if they don’t come, why don’t you spend it with me and my family?” He slid the fork out of Taemin’s mouth. Taemin chewed before politely wiping the corners of his mouth. “I couldn’t possible intrude on your family time like that.” Minho smiled widely as he continued scavenging for pieces of pork left around the now stripped bones. “I’m asking you to come. If I thought it would be a bother, I wouldn’t have.” He looked at the boy. “I’ll.. I’ll think about it. Thanks.”

                After each dish was empty, the two paid and left. Taemin was surprised by the amount of people filling the streets at such a late hour. “I would have been home long ago.” He commented. “What are they still doing out?” Minho pointed at all the tall buildings and flashy signs. “The city never sleeps Taemin. The area we live in isn’t exactly the liveliest. Hey, I just got an idea. Let’s go to the waterfront! The lake must look really nice all frozen and covered.” He grabbed Taemin by the hand and began leading him in different directions. “Hyung! Wait, it’s too late! We won’t even be able to see anything!” Disregarding Taemin, he kept walking. “C’mon Taemin, don’t be a party pooper!” They zigzagged down the streets and around the buildings until they finally reached the boardwalk, the out of breath boys slowing down from their jog. “I knew it would look beautiful.” Minho managed to sound out through breaths. Taemin was standing, still trying to catch his, bent over with his hands on his knees. “Hyung, I don’t understand you at all. Sometimes you’re very mature, calm, and collected and sometimes there are times like this when you’re extremely spontaneous. I don’t- I can’t understand.” Minho wasn’t listening fully as he was too busy looking over the lake, admiring the lights on the opposite side. Taemin stood up straight, walking over to the elder and resting his head on his shoulder. His breath tickled his nose as he watched the cold air emphasize it. The muffling of a bag caught his attention, a camera appearing in his peripheral vision. “You need to remember moments like this because no matter how good the lamps you bring are, how good you editing skills are, the scene will never compliment itself as well as it will naturally.” The shutter clicked, filling the silence. “Hey, stand over here.” He pulled his camera away from his eye, his free hand grabbing for Taemin’s arm and pushing him against the railing. He tilted his head and adjusted his head and hair, smiling at his accomplishment. “Hyung, this is awkward.” He played with his fingers, looking at the older boy. “Just pretend I’m not here.” Taemin released a nervous laugh, looking away. “That’s hard to do with a huge lens pointed at my face.” Minho sighed. “Alright, alright, Fine, I won’t take a picture.” Taemin exhaled in relief. Right as he did, Minho brought the camera up and snapped the photo. Taemin’s eyes immediately shot up, an exaggerated look of anger on his face. “And there’s another thing you do! You always take pictures when I let my guard down!” His fist landed on Minho’s shoulder, causing him to stumble a bit. “It’s best that way.” He smiled goofily. “Everything is.” Taemin leaned against the railing, peering over before Minho joined him.

It was quiet there. The only sounds were faded honks and music escaping from the city.  The frozen water refused to make a noise as the snow landed softly in unorganized layers. The two boys stood in silence; the only light shared between them was that of the distant condos and malls. The hushed atmosphere made Taemin feel slightly uncomfortable. He looked up at the elders glowing face. He looked at the way his nose curved, the way his lips were shaped. It was a while now, but Taemin still couldn’t get that dream he had completely out of his mind. Every time he saw Minho’s amazing face in moments like these, it would all just come back. He raised his hand unconsciously and brushed some snow off of Minho’s hat. This caught Minho’s attention as he turned, his eyes meeting Taemin’s. “Is something the matter Taemin?” Taemin quickly drew back his hand, hoping the darkness would mask his heating cheeks. “I-uh, no- I just- I was just thinking- M-Minho... You’re- you’re really handsome.” He was able to recognize Minho’s shocked expression. Did that sound too weird? The elders head dropped slightly as he looked at his feet. “Th... Thanks. You’re also very pretty Taemin.” Taemin’s lips pulled back as if he was about to say something but quickly curled into a smile. “I don’t know if that’s much of a compliment. I think a boy’s last concern is to be pretty.” Minho chuckled at his own remark, looking back up to catch Taemin’s eyes once more. “I guess you’re right. Sorry, that was just unexpected is all.” Taemin’s forefinger coiled around one of Minho’s, tugging at his hand. “’It’s best that way.’” The younger boy quoted. Minho’s smile faded as his eyes locked onto Taemin’s now. A soft breeze traveled through Taemin’s hair, causing it to flow in sync. He could spot snowflakes piling up on separate strands, white patterns forming naturally. It was seconds before either even blinked. He spotted Minho’s Adam’s apple bounce vertically across his neck, a small noise released through that action. His finger felt a tight squeeze as Minho’s hand s around it. Taemin watched somewhat confused as he noticed that Minho’s face might, just might, be getting closer. Maybe I’m just imagining it, Taemin asked himself as he saw Minho’s eyelids cover half his dark pupils. Before Taemin could think too much about it, he felt himself lean closer as well. As their separate breaths merged into one small cloud, Taemin closed his eyes. He could feel his body moving, doing all these weird things.

Maybe he could stop them.

Maybe he didn’t want to.

His free hand reached for Minho’s chest and found it easily, holding onto it tightly. Is this what having your first kiss is like? Isn’t this how it happens in all the dramas? He felt sharp pricks all across his hand and arms. Anxiety, he figured. Taemin’s voice was soon lost in his own head as his lips prepared themselves for a heat he hadn’t experienced yet. Just as Taemin began counting down the milliseconds, a high pitched ring filled the area.

I think I want to kiss him.

“Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!”

Both boys stiffened, Taemin quickly using the hand on Minho’s chest to push himself away from Minho, his head turning towards the source of the sound. His eyes found those of a toddler waddling towards them, tears streaming down his face. Taemin instinctive lowered himself to the toddler as he offered his hand. The child sprung into Taemin’s arms, mumbling something that he failed to decipher. Taemin lifted him and began walking away , trying to avoid the horribly embarrassing situation that nearly happened all together.

                Minho watched as Taemin walked away with the child in hand, his eyes wide as his hand cupped his mouth. What did I just almost do? He searched his mind for an explanation. It was the influence of the scene and everything. I mean, anyone would feel compelled to do that. Clearly.  Taemin turned around, the little boy’s face against his shoulder. “He says he can’t find his mom.” Minho wasn’t too familiar with kids, no plan came to mind. “We should just stay here.” Taemin stated. “He couldn’t have gotten too far on his own, right? We’ll just sit here until his parents show up.” Taemin finished. “And if they don’t?” Minho questioned. The boys sobs grew louder and Taemin glared at Minho. “If they don’t,” Taemin began in a quiet voice, “which they will,” he emphasized, “Then we’ll contact the police station and if push comes to shove, he’ll come home with me.” He bounced him on his hip, causing the child to calm down slightly. Minho nodded as he spotted a bench, gesturing towards it. They both made their way to it, sitting down with Taemin’s hold still on the boy. The two sat awkwardly for about half an hour before Taemin’s giggling interrupted their silence. Minho looked over curiously as Taemin patted the boy. “That’s a cute snore if I’ve ever heard one.” Minho smiled at the sight. “I think you’d make a good parent.” Minho commented as he watched Taemin his coat and pull the sides around the sleeping boy. “I think you’d make a really good parent.” Taemin laughed at the thought, nuzzling the top of the child’s head. “I don’t think a chance like that will ever arise. I’m not good with girls or any of that stuff.” Minho raised an eyebrow. “Jessica seems to like you a lot.” Taemin shook his head. “I don’t think I could handle her. She has a really bold personality. She’s kind of scary.” Minho chuckled, agreeing. “Well you know, if someone doesn’t know us, we probably look like young parents. I mean, we have the father looking figure, the child and-“ Minho’s cheerful voice was cut off by Taemin’s. “Are you saying I’m the mom? You are saying I’m the mom. Do I look like a girl to you?” Taemin’s tone made Minho’s smile expand even further. “Oh c’mon Taemin.  Just accept it and be my girlfriend.” Minho laughed as he hugged Taemin’s head in his arms, Taemin trying to wrestle his way out. As their bodies wiggled against each other, something caught their attention. A woman hurriedly ran by them, her head darting in all directions. “Maybe she’s-“ Minho started too late as Taemin already stood up and walked over to her. “Excuse me ma’am, are you looking for your so-“

“Hyekyu!” The woman shouted. The child’s head turned toward the woman, and his eyes lit up. “Umma!” Taemin handed the boy over to the woman as he finally got a good look at her face. Her healthy hair seemed to be messy from running and dark streaks of smudged eyeliner ran down her cheeks. She peppered the little boys face with kisses, prayers escaping on her breathes. “Thank you so much for keeping him safe.” She finally spoke, her grateful eyes evident to Taemin. “I’m glad someone like you found him. You have such a kind soul.” Taemin smiled at the kind words. “It was really nothing. Anyone would’ve done it.” The woman laughed breathlessly. “You’d be surprised.”

                After a few minutes, the woman finally bowed and took her leave. The boys smiled as they waved the pair off, watching them get into a car. Minho slung his arm around Taemin as they began walking back towards the tall buildings. “So how about it?” Taemin looked up confused. “Are you going to be my girlfriend?”  Taemin shoved Minho, his elbow going into the elder’s side, causing a bubbling laughter to erupt from him. “I’m think I’m out of your league, Hyung.” Minho slid his arm around Taemin’s shoulders tighter, squeezing him. “Well I’m sure you’ll be happy to hear that I’m not one to easily give up.” Taemin rolled his eyes sarcastically. “Oh geez, not another fan boy.” Minho snorted at the term as he pulled Taemin’s head against his chest. “I wonder who paid for dinner.” Taemin’s arm s around Minho’s waist, pulling himself in for more body heat. “Fine. But only out of the good of my heart.” Taemin finally answered. “Alright, then let’s go buy some couple sweaters.”

Taemin laughed, but on the inside his heart was beating rapidly. He knew Minho was only joking, but part of him wished he weren’t and Taemin wasn’t going to deny it any more than he had to. He’d come in terms with the fact that he probably, kind of, just a little, totally liked Minho. It just took an event like today to help him realize it.

A/N: Sorry for the long break! D: I was at the cottage and uhhh I didn't have my laptop nor internet. It was horrible. I hate the outdoors, I hate not being in a huge city, I hate bugs, I hate having 5 misbehaved, spoiled kids under one roof. It . I'd tell you way more about it, but I'm afraid the small amount of internet I'm getting from my phone with time out like it already has a few times D: Hope you still stuck around!