The Notice for Celebration

*

                Chansung awoke to minimal light shining around the curtains. Shuffling slightly he slowly eased up onto his hands and knees and stretched. Something was strange. Looking around the room he noticed that Wooyoung was still fast asleep in his bed. He looked everything but stressed. Taking a deep breath he sat back on his feet and stared at the ceiling in confusion. What was missing? Looking around, he shook his head and grabbed some of his clothes. As his hand came in contact with the doorknob, he realised it. Wooyoung's scent that he had gotten a whiff of...was gone. It lingered around the room, sure, but the strength and potency of it was gone. Without thinking, he strolled up to the man’s bedside. Taking a glance at the still form of the enigma, Chansung’s eyes narrowed, ‘so now he’s hiding it?’

                Surrendering, he sighed deeply and made his way to the bathroom. Taking a quick shower, he dried and dressed himself just as fast before making his way into the kitchen. There, he found the lovely Min-Jun, adorned with his spectacles, newspaper in hand and breakfast before him. Chansung prodded over slowly.

                “It’s so weird having a cat in the house again...” Min-Jun said, startling him.

                “Huh?”

                Min-Jun turned the page. “So, finally rested are you?”

                Chansung nodded.

                “Help yourself to breakfast. It’s only what’s available right now. I’m surprised you’re awake before Wooyoung.” Min-Jun said.

                Chansung sniffed out some bread and gave himself a healthy helping of cheese spread and milk.

                “Coffee is there too, Chansung.”

                “Mmhmm...” He managed with a mouthful of bread. He was kind of nervous, well very nervous. He didn’t know why he was so on edge, but Wooyoung hiding his scent made him anxious. Did he do something wrong? Staring at his bread, he slumped down onto the table.

                Min-Jun bent the newspaper and looked over him, “what?”

                Chansung stared at him.

                “Don’t look at me with those big, sad eyes of yours. It's cute but I won’t know what happened if you don’t tell me.”

                “I can’t smell Wooyoung anymore...” He grumbled.

                Min-Jun’s brow rose. “Huh? What do you mean?”

                Chansung wanted to groan and huff, but Min-Jun wasn’t the problem so he had to calm himself down. “When I first came, I noticed a strange but familiar scent and I realised it was Wooyoung. It’s...” He flushed slightly. “It’s kind of getting to me a little bit that it's just...gone.” He stared out the window. “I don't know why, I know I've never met him before, but it's so...familiar to me for some reason. I didn't upset him did I?”

                “I don't think so. Do you think you did something?”

                Chansung shrugged, “I'm sure I didn't. I know how to keep to myself. Besides, I just met you guys and you’ve been nothing but nice and accommodating. Why would I ruin all that? I like it here...” He said quickly, but his voice quickly descended into a murmur.

                “Alright, calm down, sheesh.” Min-Jun slowly waltzed over behind him.

                “You’re not going to do it again, are you?” Without pause, the older man’s hands were in his hair and he slumped against the table. “Yaaah...” He whined but could do nothing to stop him, but truth to be told he didn't want to.

                “Well, you’ve been hiding yourself too, haven’t you?” Min-Jun whispered into his ear, making his eyes snap open. “I think it’s only fair. My curiosity is piqued however, as to why you so desperately need to be enshrouded with his scent.”

                Right, this was the dangerous one. Min-Jun was probably having the time of his life teasing him, manipulating him through one of his weak spots, and knowing the full situation. Taking a deep breath, he stared dead ahead, and didn’t move.

                “Aw, come on, don’t be a sook.”

                “’m not...” He murmured.

                “You are,” Min-Jun teased and re-took his seat. “Honestly, eat your breakfast my dear Chan.”

                Hearing movement, Chansung turned to the stairs to find Wooyoung. His hair a mess like usual and his cheeks so adorably puffy. Chansung almost cooed, he was so adorable. He shrunk back however, and pouted, because there was still no scent. It wasn’t like he could just go up to him and tell him to start exuding his scent like he used to either. That would be rather awkward and spark a weird conversation that he was sure would lead no where. But he wanted it! Flopping onto the table he grumbled about the unfairness of it all. Honestly, he needed to grow up. He wasn’t some young kit anymore entering his first cycle.

                “How are you this morning my lovely babe?”

                “Shut up. Coffee.” Was Wooyoung's only response.

                “Oh, you’re both so...how should I put it, frustrated?”

                Chansung almost gaped, but it quickly turned to laughter as a he watched Min-Jun dodge a sugar cube.

                “I’m angry at our beloved pooch.” Wooyoung huffed. “He’s - I thought he was doing fine with Min. She's going to get frustrated with everything and then what is he going to do?”

                “Well he was comfortable with Chansung, perhaps they can get even more comfy.” Min-Jun suggested with a grin. "They look good together."

                Chansung shook his head violently. “That would only make him hate me!” He cried. “How could you even suggest that?”

                “Besides, Junho has said he's unsure about his feelings towards males, you know that.” Wooyoung shot at the bear. He slowly slid into the seat beside him and rubbed his eyes. “So, you really did get up early.” Wooyoung finally looked at him.

                Chansung nodded but turned his gaze away. His early conversation with Min-Jun was rattling his nerves. “Told you I could...” He sniffled.

                “Hm, so cute when you want to prove yourself,” Wooyoung teased.

                Chansung made to retort, only he realised what he said and Junho came bounding through the door. He tried to catch his gaze but Wooyoung was already paying attention to the pup, who understandably skirted around him and leaned into Min-Jun’s side. He strangely didn't look in Wooyoung's direction - or maybe it wasn't so strange.

                “We got the notice!” Junho cheered and handed over the small envelope.

                Min-Jun nodded and accepted it, but then handed it to Wooyoung. Junho flushed but Chansung could tell he wasn't really mad at Wooyoung. It was an interesting exchange to say the least. It made him envious to see how close they all were.

                “Dear Fortune Bakery, we are pleased to invite you to the 89^th Autumn Fox Festival. If you would like to register a table for this year’s celebration please do so by the 18^th so we can determine cost range. The Festival will take place on November 7^th this year. There will be an afternoon and evening portion so you can register for either the full day or half-day. We were sorry to not have had you participate last year, but we look forward to hearing from you and hopefully having some lovely baked goods as always. Sincerely, the Autumn Fox Festival Committee.” Wooyoung read. “They’re having it really late this year.”

                “Yeah, I find that strange. It's supposed to snow earlier and be colder. I can feel it in my gut.” Min-Jun said, which made both Wooyoung and Junho smile. “So, Chansung, usually we put the decision to participate to a vote. All in favour or not and then we go into planning what goods we’ll be making. However, I think we’ll have to plan later,” he said checking his watch, “but we can decide if we want to participate now. So all in favour?”

                Everyone’s hands went up.

                “Okay, that was easy. Let’s get the shop ready and get those ovens going, shall we?” Min-Jun released Junho who made his way to the front shop. Wooyoung and Min-Jun set out to organise things and Chansung was enlisted to begin greasing pans and getting the bulk ingredients. He had to admit, he was super excited. As the bread was finally set to rise, Chansung loomed around Wooyoung as he began to make cinnamon buns. He watched him as he worked, admiring his hands and his concentration. They too were set to rise and Wooyoung turned to him.

                “Wanna help me make a bunch of somethings?”

                Nodding, he was given his own apron and a hair net. “A bunch of somethings..." He repeated. Honestly, even the little things were getting to him. "What’re we making?” He asked watching Wooyoung setting out some items.

                “You and I are making mini-cheesecakes.” Wooyoung said fondly. He took out six packages of cream cheese. “Usually these sell out really fast but they're expensive to make, so we try and plan them to be made and set out at certain times of the day.” Wooyoung explained. He motioned him to come closer. “Okay, first, we heat the oven to about 325.” He moved back. “Next, I want you to dump 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs into this bowl.” Wooyoung handed over the scooper and a bowl. Chansung did as told. “Okay, now add four table spoons of sugar.” Wooyoung vanished from his side as he completed the task. When he returned he had melted butter. “Pour this in and go blend it.”

                “Wooyoung, I’m starting on the fritters!” Min-Jun announced.

                “Yep,” he said.

                Chansung watched him as he placed muffin liners into the muffin cups. Turning back to his mixture, he deemed it well enough and brought it back.

                “Excellent, now press that into the cups.” Wooyoung said. He started on the cream cheese.

                By the time Chansung had finished, Wooyoung was at his side and spooning the mixture on top of his graham crumb base. Once finished, Chansung helped him move them into the ovens. “You always do this by yourself?”

                Wooyoung nodded, “of course.”

                Chansung shook his head. “You guys are amazing.”

                “It’s work, delicious work too if something fails,” Wooyoung chuckled. “Now, while they’re baking we can start on the simple cakes. By then the cinnamon buns will have risen enough. So, we’ll be onto the cookies and then it’ll almost be opening time.”

                “Cookies last because they take the shortest amount of time?”

                Wooyoung brushed cream cheese across his nose and grinned, “you’re one smart kitty.”

                Chansung couldn’t help but tingle in happiness. He knew it wouldn’t be like this every day, but he was having a lot of fun. Wooyoung directed him on the carrot cakes as he mixed the coffee cakes. Chansung fumbled a little bit, but Wooyoung assured him it happened in baking all the time. “But won’t it affect the taste?” He wondered.

                “There are tons of different ways and a variety of ingredients that go into all recipes. Each family has their own way of making things, and the same goes for bakers and patissiers, so don’t worry so much. If it doesn’t taste that great, you’ll do better next time.” Wooyoung assured and gripped his wrist gently, briefly, and went back to work.

                “You’re a really good teacher.” He said as he finished mixing his batter.

                “A good teacher is only good if he has an attentive and listening student.” Wooyoung said as if it was a mantra. Perhaps Min-Jun had told this to him many a time in the past. “I absolutely hated baking in the beginning – well, not really the cooking. I guess it was because it felt permanent, that we would be staying here.” He admitted.

                “What? Really?”

                “Mmhmm...” Wooyoung quickly greased their pans. “I...I want to travel. I didn’t want to be stuck here.” A small, sad smile tugged at his lips. “But here I am, and I don’t regret it. Sure, I’d like to go places but at some point responsibility just wins, I guess.” He didn’t know why, but Chansung couldn’t help but feel that that wasn’t the real reason. Surprised when a spoon covered in white creamy frosting shot up before his face, he looked at Wooyoung. “Try,” he encouraged.

                Chansung accepted the spoon and slowly placed it on his tongue. He always loved cream-cheese frosting but it never tasted this good. Stifling a small moan, he smiled. “Really good,” he cooed.

                “Mmhmm, I could tell.” Wooyoung laughed and chucked the spoon into the sink. “Alright, lets get these babies into the oven, our lovely cheesecakes should be just about ready.” They loaded the cakes into another oven and retrieved the lovely smelling mini-cakes. Chansung salivated, just a little.

                “Oh!” Wooyoung boasted surprising him. “They’re all intact.” He said checking them over. “You did good kit, no cracks in the first batch.”

                Chansung groaned, “but that means we don’t get to have any.”

                Wooyoung laughed and rubbed his back. “You won’t get it perfect every time.” He teased.

                “But I thought you taste-tested.” He whined.

                “Alright, alright, we’ll try one later. For now they need to cool and then go into the fridge for about two hours. Usually we make these at night but where we weren’t here it couldn’t be done.” Wooyoung said and checked on the other cakes. “Get out the flour, baking powder, soda, salt, raisins, and chocolate chips, Chansung.” Wooyoung ordered and began turning the cakes around. He also loaded the cinnamon buns into another oven.

                Gathering the required ingredients, Chansung set them down and looked around. There were fresh baked things in the front store already. Junho was still cleaning and arranging things but he looked back and shrugged at one point. Chansung couldn’t help but chuckle. Focusing back on Wooyoung’s work area, he found the cakes all laid out on cooling racks. Wooyoung was already mixing and indicated to the cookie sheets. Without needing to be told he began to grease them. Just as he finished Wooyoung began to drop tablespoon-sized blobs. As he finished one sheet Chansung carried it to the oven.

                Coming to stand beside him, he rubbed his brow. “Say, that shelter, was it always so seedy?”

                Wooyoung smirked and glanced at him briefly, “so, you got to see some of its true colours on the first visit did you?”

                “I don't really want to go back there. An omega came out and muttered some very not-so-nice-things to Junho.” He said, voice low.

                “Probably Joan; I don’t like going there. I don’t like the management or how people act around the shelter. Min-Jun helps out because he doesn’t want hybrids to wind up in bad situations like Joan. I'll never understand why he does with everything that happened there, but I also admire him for doing it.” Wooyoung indicated for him to take the last baking sheet and walked with him to the oven. “It doesn’t always help, obviously.”

                “We met a lady there - not Hulda-"

                “Rosabelle-"

                “She mentioned a guy named Baron.” Wooyoung stilled but didn’t meet his gaze, in fact it looked like his face darkened a little bit. “Who is he?”

                “We should have told you about him before you guys went. Baron...they say there isn't any solid 'proof', but he catches and sells hybrids for extra cash.”               

                All of Chansung’s hairs raised and an unpleasant shiver flew throughout his body. “Then why let him-"

                Wooyoung moved forward and covered his mouth. He looked beyond him before leaning in close. “I’ll try and find a picture of him, he’s been in the news. He was arrested seven years ago but they claimed the evidence wasn't sufficient. Witnesses were too terrified to stand trial because one was found...in the woods outside town."

               Chansung shivered in disgust.

               "Baron is dangerous, but he is also very connected. He wouldn't ever come here, but it is always best to be wary.” Wooyoung eased one of the cookie sheets onto the counter and motioned him to come over. “Come help me finish kit.” He said as he moved towards the cinnamon bun over.

                Chansung couldn’t help but speed over. “He’s the one who did those things to Junho, isn't he?”

                Wooyoung shook his head. “Baron is not a good man. Min-Jun has told me from a young age to never trust him. What's worse is it isn't clear if Rosabelle assists him. When they arrested him she was at his side throughout the whole thing, defending him and using the shelter as her reasoning. He brought hybrids there, too, for sure. It's just sometimes they would go in, and then they would mysteriously vanish. Every hybrid in Fortune avoids him...”

                “How could something that so obviously happens here keep going on?”

                “Shh,” Wooyoung bumped him with his hip. “Relax. Eat a cookie.”

                Chansung balked a little but didn’t resist. “Eat a cookie...”

                “To be honest...it’s nice having someone to talk to, it's been a while since we've had a visitor.” Wooyoung said as he got the second last sheet of cookies. He worked steadily, lifting and placing them onto the cooling racks. “You’ve only been here three days too...strange.”

                “Do you always get this attached to visiting hybrids?”

                Wooyoung side-eyed him and then proceeded to roll his eyes. That was too much!

                Chansung pushed him.

                Wooyoung laughed but at least answered his question. “There was a coyote who came to visit once who was really nice to me. The mother I never had I guess...” Wooyoung murmured, Chansung almost didn’t catch it. “She came from the west. She’d been wanting to come to Fortune for years because she knew the foxes who used to live here. To say she was devastated when she realised there were no more foxes here...I don’t think I could put it into words. But she stayed at the bakery and really got to know me and Min-Jun. She comes to the Spring festival every second year.”

                “I can’t imagine the type of people and hybrids you’ve met here.” Chansung said and looked up at the ceiling.

                “You’ve met tons too, through your travels. Your book on the wolves is very interesting. I’m surprised they let you publish it.” Wooyoung said and finally finished. He took a seat and glanced up at him.    

                “You read my book?” He asked, shocked.

                Wooyoung smiled, he turned as someone rounded the corner. “Hey pup. You alright?”

                Junho shrugged but sidled up next to him. “Did you have to tease me about her..?”

                “You know I did.” Wooyoung cooed and brushed a hand through his hair.

                Chansung leaned back and watched the exchange.

                “You’re mean,” Junho huffed.

                “Nah, I just love you that much.” Wooyoung rubbed the back of his neck fondly. Sure enough, those cute ears flopped out and Junho sagged against him. Was it bad Chansung felt jealous? Probably. “Chansung took your spot this morning helping me make cookies, pup.” Junho bristled but didn’t budge. Wooyoung winked at him. Honestly, the guy was such a tease. “Are you going to be with your family for the festival this year?”

                Chansung’s ears twitched.

                “I wanna be with you and Min-Jun...” Junho whined. “Even the cat.”

                Wooyoung’s jaw dropped and he looked at him. Chansung himself couldn’t help but beam at that. Wooyoung had turned back quickly and ruffled his ears. “Honestly, you just want to avoid Min. Carry these cookies to the front you silly pup, we’ll be opening soon.”

                Junho grumbled and rose to his feet. He moved the cookies into narrow trays and carried them out.

                “So, why is he so nervous around women?” Chansung wondered.

                Wooyoung shrugged, “maybe he’s afraid to get intimate, especially...you know.” Chansung was sure he hadn’t been seeing things – he saw the pain in those dark eyes.

                “Not that I want to impose, Wooyoung, and I don’t have any right to ask...” He started but when those mysterious eyes locked on him he lost his words.

                “What?”

                “Nothing...nevermind,” he murmured quickly.

                “Well, don’t keep stalling. Let’s ice the cakes and slice ‘em up for the day. We need to ice the buns too – but some stay plain. We’ll probably be making more if there’s a need. It’s onto lunches and breakfast items after this.” Wooyoung said as he got out his batches of icing. Chansung couldn’t help but groan.

                Not only was the day exhausting but the evening detailed more baking to prepare for the next day. Wooyoung promised it was to make the morning less stressful but he thought he was just trying to placate him. Soon enough, the day was done and a hefty supper was resting before him. Before he was finished, Wooyoung set down one of the mini-cheesecakes but before he could thank him he was already making his way up the stairs. Min-Jun was setting away the last of the dough and batters which needed to cool overnight and finally sat down across from him. He let out a deep breath and popped a cigarette into his mouth.

                “Don’t smoke in the kitchen!” Wooyoung called down the stairs.

                Chansung grinned.

                “Pest...” Min-Jun grumbled, but left the cigarette in place. “So, how was the first official day?”

                “I can’t believe you both do that every day.” He murmured.

                “We don’t, it’s just usually like that after we’ve gone to do some catering. Tomorrow will be easier.” Min-Jun assured. Chansung made a note to apologise to Wooyoung later. Speaking of the guy, he came prowling back down the stairs, hair wet, and in his pajamas. He snatched the cigarette from Min-Jun’s lips and sat beside him. The pair were honestly too funny. Min-Jun shot him a look and motioned with his hands, ‘see what I have to deal with’. Chansung only shrugged which caused Min-Jun to raise his hands in display, and then he proceeded to cross them.

                “We should make fox-shaped chocolates and desserts this year.” Wooyoung said with a grin Chansung had not seen yet.

                “Are you going to get the molds made?” Min-Jun asked as he massaged the back of Wooyoung's neck.

                “Yes...” He whined, batting away his hand, and set out some recipes.

                “Alright, alright, sorry,” Min-Jun soothed and leaned over the table. “So, shall I give him a rundown or will you?”

                Wooyoung snorted.

                “Alright, Chansung, usually we get a booth.” Min-Jun started, which made Chansung smile. “We bake everything the night before and the morning of. Sometimes one of us comes back to make some extra things but usually we cover ourselves pretty okay.”

                “Do you make specific desserts?”

                “Usually chocolates, crepes with various fillings, and buns with different fillings - Wooyoung makes a mean barbeque chicken bun.” Min-Jun boasted but Wooyoung shook his head, ever the modest person. “I was thinking maybe we could set up around 4PM, that way we have the buns for supper and then have the desserts for the evening.”

                “Sounds good to me.” Wooyoung sighed.

                “Aww, is my cute Wooyoung tired?”

                “Shut up and finish.”

                Min-Jun chuckled, “so, usually we take turns being at the booth. Where I do want Junho to take a break and actually spend time with his family, I think we’ll have you take over for him this year.”

                “He won’t like it,” Chansung grumbled.

                “Doesn’t matter. Maybe it’ll give him a chance to actually break away from his security blanket, maybe even connect with Min, too.”

                “Honestly, you’re a cunning jerk sometimes. I learned well I think.” Wooyoung shuffled closer and leaned into Min-Jun’s side.

                “Hm, probably learned too well. You must be tired,” Min-Jun said as he checked his forehead. Slowly, he smoothed his hand back through Wooyoung's hair making him close his eyes.

                Despite his worries, Chansung took note of the happy expression on Wooyoung’s face. He was excited for this. Chansung wasn’t that great at reading Wooyoung's emotions yet, but they were beginning to show. “You know, there’s only one other village I’ve visited that celebrates the fox.”

                “Oh?” Wooyoung perked up.

                “Yeah...a small place called Aninnik*.”

                “That’s a town in the north isn’t it?” Min-Jun asked. "Really far up too..."

                Chansung nodded.

                “Just how far north have you gone? I thought that was the closest place to finding the Realm.” Wooyoung said, his eyes seemingly larger than before.

                Chansung’s hands clenched tightly. “It was the closest place.” His dream of his first fox came to him and he shook his head. “Because of the researchers who are currently looking for the Realm I couldn't get in there. I'd been through there when I was younger, but I've never been able to get back since. The last time I went...” He clenched and unclenched his fists. The fox wandering away, watching the soldiers pass by, and the vanish, it still chilled him. "It wasn't a good experience when I went, but they celebrated the festival despite what happened. As far as I know the people of Aninnik still celebrate."

                Min-Jun leaned forward and gripped his hand. “Well, I hope you have a ton of fun being a part of ours."

                Chansung finally broke a smile. He then noticed that Wooyoung was watching him with bright eyes.

                "I think we’re going to have a good time this year. We’ve done enough for tonight, go get some rest. We have another busy day tomorrow.” Min-Jun continued and then released his hand.

                Wooyoung broke the stare and yawned. He rubbed his arms but motioned for Chansung to follow and he did. When they were out of Min-Jun’s earshot, and in the safety of Wooyoung’s room, he turned to him and tugged him close. “I can’t imagine...how hard it’s been trying to chase something that seems unattainable...”

                Heat raced up Chansung’s arm, and he wanted to recoil but Wooyoung’s grip remained strong. “It’s what you do when you’re passionate about something.”

                “You’re carrying troubles in here.” Wooyoung touched his chest. “You’re hurting yourself by doing that. So, when you feel comfortable enough, I’ll be here to listen, okay?”

                Chansung wanted to scoop him up and hug him close and tell him everything. He nodded and the warmth was gone. “Ne, Wooyoung, if I went traveling again, would you come with me?”

                Wooyoung turned to him slowly. He wanted to see him surprised, or shocked, or aghast that he could even mention it, but Wooyoung always surprised him. “Trying to woo me with a chance to go beyond the limits of Fortune, Chansung?” He asked as he waltzed closer to him.

                Flushing, he shrugged innocently. “Maybe,” he answered quietly.

                “Min-Jun told me not to ask yet, but I have to know, because I’m ever so curious, Hwang Chansung. How far will this obsession with foxes take you?”

                Surprised by the question, he tilted his head. “As far as it needs to.”

                “And when you finally find one, what will you do with it?”

                Chansung, once again, was shocked. “What do you mean?” Wooyoung came ever closer and he motioned him to lean down.

                "If you're finally able to meet one, speak with one, will you ask it to bring you to the Realm?"

                Chansung felt a rush of something throughout his entire body. Looking down, he sighed. "Every time I've seen a fox, it's dying or on the run. I never chase them because I always fear that if I'm after it, someone will follow." He explained and let his shoulders drop. He didn't want to see the memories. "I don't know what the Realm is anymore than the average person, so I'd ask first." He fought to look up but he couldn't do it. He felt like a coward. "I just...want to speak with one. I want to hear their story. I want..." He stopped himself and sighed.

               "Don't stress," Wooyoung soothed and flicked him across the nose. "I was just curious." Wooyoung slid onto his bed and curled up under the covers. "It's kind of sad...because I can tell you're passionate about them." He murmured and rolled over. "It's sad that you haven't been able to find out yet."

               "Have you see foxes here, Wooyoung?"

               "The last fox that Min-Jun ever saw was when I was very small. She was an old fox and she had just lost her community. Min-Jun told me she stayed here until she quietly passed away. She's buried now near the old dens. So...no, I don't really remember or recall seeing one." Wooyoung answered and slowly rolled around to face him.

               "How long have you been with Min-Jun? It seems like you've been with him since you were-"

               "Min-Jun and his partner are the only parents I've ever had." Wooyoung said. "Asides from the coyote, Min-Jun's been my rock, my foundation. I don't know where I would be without him." He smiled brightly. "You helped us a super amount in the bakery today. Min-Jun really appreciates your help, too." Wooyoung motioned for him to come closer and he did so. His heart began to race again. As he stopped, he knelt beside Wooyoung's bed and his hand drifted into Chansung's hair. "I think you came at the right time for all of us. If you wonder why we poke and prod," Wooyoung trailed a finger down his cheek. "It's because we never know how long visitors will stay..."

                "That sounds sad, too." He murmured and rested his chin against the bed.

                "Maybe," he sighed. "You really like it when people touch your hair, don't you?" Wooyoung asked and returned his hand to his hair.

                Chansung smiled, "not by erted bears who seem to read me no matter how hard I try to hide myself."

                Wooyoung laughed and nodded. "Liar, you didn't mind it this morning."

                Chansung flushed. "He took advantage of me moping okay." He pouted and poked him.

                "He can't help it. You look cute when you're moping." Wooyoung said drowsily.

                Chansung resisted the urge to reach up and brush back his hair.

                "They found me when I was very small. I wouldn't have survived without him, Min-Jun." Wooyoung said quietly, eyes barely open. "If you wonder why I keep myself secret, it's because of how I was treated in the past. Nothing traumatic, it just wasn't good. I guess when you're ready to tell me about you, I will share with you about me. I think it's fair if you won't tell me about you, an eye for an eye my lovely kit."

                Chansung almost, almost, purred. Wooyoung was sharing with him, trusting him, and testing him. He called him lovely, his lovely kit. "I just...it's because of my mother and father and their status. I don't want people to make an opinion of me because of what kind of hybrid I am. I just want to be Hwang Chansung."

                "Fair..." Wooyoung managed.

                "If it means anything," he began quietly, "being here makes me feel very at home, like when I was with the wolves."

                Wooyoung's hand was back in his hair. "You're so cute. I meant what I said today. It's really nice to have someone to talk to..." Then he blushed, oh-so-beautifully and shuffled down a ways into the blankets. "Don't leave for a while, 'kay?"

               Chansung's toes curled and his whole body warmed. "How can I think of leaving when you ask me like that?"

               Wooyoung smiled sleepily at him. "Let's see who wins, you stay here with us, or I go with you somewhere." He said and arched up. "Cats have other weak spots, right?"

               He groaned and tried to shuffle back but Wooyoung ruffled his hand through his hair making him drop. "Please don't..."

               "You have the power to stop me." Wooyoung cooed, and then grinned, "alpha."

               Damnit, he thought that guy was falling asleep. "Don't want to..." He grumbled finally. "I seriously hate you. Manipulating me with your hands." He lied. Then it happened without warning, a purr broke from his throat.

               "Ohh...so persistance is key, is it?" Wooyoung cooed.

               "You're touching one of my sensitive spots, of course I would purr." He said not able to meet his gaze.

               "You didn't do it for Min-Jun."

               Damn him! They were both dangerous!

               Chansung finally managed to roll away from him and sat on his bed. Wooyoung was grinning even broader at him. "Definitely cute."

               "Ugh! Shut up!" He rolled himself up and made a point in covering his head. "Thought you were tired you scheming..." Now he couldn't think of any name to call him.

               "Scheming lovely baker and cook who makes you lovely food."

               "And you called me erted."

               Wooyoung laughed and shut off the light. "Well look at who I'm living with. Did you think I was innocent?"

               "Your face is a lie."

               Again, the mysterious Wooyoung was laughing. "There's poison in these cheeks, of the most addictive kind."

               "That won't intrigue me." He attempted, but he knew this enigma would see right through him, and he did.

               "I saw the reflective glint in your eyes. I intrigue you a lot."

               "You're being annoyingly persistent."

               "True, I'll leave you alone then."

               "You can't just decide that!"

               Wooyoung's laughter was honestly addictive. When things had quieted again, Chansung smiled to himself. "Seriously though, Chansung...thanks for all the help today."

               "You're welcome." And he tried, desperately, to quell the feelings that had arisen. He didn't know how long he would stay here, or if he would get any information he wanted. Maybe his stay with the wolves had been long as well. An old fear rose up into his chest. Was he looking to settle? Innately as a feline one always found their niche, their spot that they could call their own, but he was sure he wasn't ready for that yet. Wooyoung was challenging him in a way that...made him curious and excited. He needed to call Fei again. Everything was messing him up.

*

Next Chapter...The Lynx