So, basically this is the story. I have the epilogue ready but it's in spanish, so I have to translate it later.

I'm sorry for any gramatical mistake, english is not my first language.

Hope you liked it :)

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"Just spent ten minutes with the love of his life, and thousands of hours thinking of him”

-One ... two ... three ... back leg to the front ... hop, skip, bam! Again!

The hall was full of young people between 15 and 17 years, rehearsing with their choreography teacher who was in front of them. Most were already sweating although wearing light shirts while some just jumped in place; trying to calm the cramp in their legs.

-Hyung! Are you okay? - asked a young dark-haired boy to the other guy who was by his side, and seemed to have trouble breathing.

-Um ... yeah ... just - answered haltingly the senior, trying to swallow as much oxygen air as he can- I just… need to...

His frightened companion knelt beside him to see his friend won’t faint at any time. Since he had come, he was never the best dancer but the most resistant.

And the older didn’t understand why. He was aware that sport were never his true talent in school, but he thought that with three months going to the gym, paid for his beloved older sister, he could keep up to the dance rehearsals. Obviously after two hours in the rehearsal room, he realized he was wrong.

His lungs seemed to shrink in the chest because he felt his heart beat louder, looking for them. His forehead dripped sweat heavy, and his hands trembled in bewilderment.

He was resting his hands on both legs so the instructor won’t see he had surrendered as others, but instead was still standing with his struggle.

-Hyukie... Keep on ... I'll be fine... I want to breath... just don’t stop...

-But hyung...

-LEE HYUKJAE?! IS THERE A PROBLEM?

The older gave him a light tap on his partner’s back, worried about him and urged him to continue. Hyukjae looked back and smiled at the head instructor.

-I'm sorry hyung, my pin broke... - answered continuing the routine without delay.

The other was amazed at how easily his companion could follow the rhythm of the songs. It was as natural as breathing for him. Envy, they called him.

Suddenly he could no longer endure the stifling air of the room and turned around, looking with his eyes, the door. He stepped into the hallway coughing heavily on the road. The instructor was concerned but said nothing. He had seen many give up; it would not be the first time.

"He had a pretty face; he would have gone far in the industry"

The boy kept coughing in the hall and could still hear the instructor's voice demanding the young ones to don’t stop.

-ONE MORE TIME! AGAIN!! KIM HEECHUL DAMN IT!! WHAT THE WAS THAT?!! - the screams were heard from the rehearsal room

-IT’S CALLED PERSONALITY!! – was the bold answer of his other friend.

And the older couldn’t help but laugh. He snorted at the entertaining moment and stopped halfway down the hall.

He wasn’t going to give up on this opportunity, right? He had gone through so much that it wasn’t fair, neither for himself nor for his family. They had supported him at the end. To quit now after he had asked for this so much, wasn’t an option.

The voices that marked the steps kept coming to his ears.

"One ... two ... three ... back ... standing in front ... but it was the damn right foot! Why does he always use the left?

The boy let himself slide to the floor, while several members from staff or trainees walked by his side, without even paying him attention. They had seen people giving up so many times that, a poor deluded who couldn’t continue with two continuous hours of routine, didn’t surprise them.

-WHY DIDN’T YOU APPLY TO BE A ING MODEL IF YOU LIKE MODELING THAT MUCH?!- he heard as the instructor shouted again

And the boy laughed again. He liked Heechul. He was quite a character. No one who knew him could tell he was an ordinary guy.

He met him the first day he was in SM and although it took him some time to get used to him at the beginning, one could say they were friends in the first hour they spent together. His outgoing personality didn’t get along with him that much, but it was virtually impossible to ignore him. Plus Heechul was just as useless as him in those dance routines.

Heechul had said that in fact, if it wouldn’t be because the company’s name was SM,  everyone could go to up with their dances. He didn’t see beauty in it. And all he cared about was beauty things.

Beauty thinks… like Jaeooong.

Heechul told him the first day that if Jae would have had a regular face, he wouldn’t have turn to look at him. A little fact he had done with lots of trainees.

That made the boy smiled mischievously. As if he didn’t know what the other guy was looking for. Many men and women were seeking the same from him.

Unfortunately, for him, Heechul was a poor imitation of a woman. He had a lot from both sides, man and woman, so he would never find him attractive.

The young man tried to catch his breath. He had had doubts about his ual preferences since his last girlfriend ended their relationship, but not the greatest curiosity could take him to Heechul's arms.

But there was something interesting about his new friend. Heechul had told him, that by the time he was as an earlier trainee, he had come to meet a friend who helped him in his dance routines and could probably help him too.

The young man didn’t know who he was, but was sure he could do with some special help. The problem was that they would have to be paid. Hyukjae had offered to help him for free, but as he was still at school, rarely had time to stay late. Even his best friend came to seek for him early to go running to study before they reached the finals. Apparently the friend also had more experience.

At that moment his phone turned off with a text message. A simple but very useful cell his mother had bought for him.

(Flashback)

-Omma I don’t want this... please don’t - answered the boy returning the cell gently into the hands of his mother.

-Sorry but you’ll have to take it, son. I don’t want to worry when you're there. Please - said Mrs. Kim returning the cell back to the hand of her son.

-But omma... is expensive ... - the young boy returned it again but the voice of his mother prevented him from doing so.

-Your dad bought it for you because he will also be worried not knowing from you, son! Can you take it? We’ll use it just for calls and to know you get home safe. Your sisters may send you messages in the day but you won’t hear them if you lower the volume. I promise we won’t interrupt your training...

-Ommaaaaa ~~~ - said the teenager taking the cell in one hand and giving her a big hug - you know it's not what worries me, omma. I want to feel close to you. In fact I would like you to move there with me, but it can’t be. What worries me is you spend money on this...

-When was money an issue when it comes to my precious little man?- she asked the face of her son- But if it worries you that much, you can pay me back when you’re famous

-Omma! - the boy complained, but also put the phone in his pocket - I'm a little big for you to call me like that

-Well I’ll keep repeating it until you get used to it. Someday you'll have many fans who will call you as you damn like but only I can call you, my precious little man...

-Do you really think I'll have fans?

-But you already have one, love?

-Omma, you don’t count...

-Yah! - said the mother giving him a hard slap on the arm

-Ah! This is assault! My mother just assault meeee! – the boy shouted giving a step backward and rubbing his arm. He was trying hard not to laugh but his face betrayed him.

-Yah! – yelled his mother again stepping forward to hit him

-Look is red!! What will you do if no one hires me for having a scar on my arm?- asked the teenager still rubbing his arm, walking backwards whole his mother was getting closer to him

-I’ll give you a real scar! Come here!

She began to chase him around the room of the house while he laughed and hid behind the big furniture massage his dad. They ran from one side to another until finally the boy found no escape against the corner of the room.

-Belittling your mother! What do you think? – said as she approached with her hand raised

-Omma!! - He shouted the boy

-What?

-Omma No no no no, please!! - he screamed again raising his hands in defense and waiting for his mother to hear his plea - I have something to tell you....

-What?

-But low your hand

-Speak quickly!

The boy got down his arms, stood up straight, and doing a little bow, released:

-I love you

Saying this, he approached and hugged her tightly. He hugged her as strong as she once embraced him when facing his darkest hour. That embrace transmitted the 'I am here', 'no I'll never leave you' and 'by your side forever.'

The woman laughed then, ending the joke and returned the hug. His son always soothed him. An effect that neither her husband nor any of his daughters had. His son had always had a unique voice for peace, joy, freshness ... so many things.

The sweet scene was never caught but the son would always carry it in his heart, because in his eyes, no woman could be compared to his mother. Until the last day that she’ll accompany him on earth, he made that promise.

-The day I get my first concert Omma, I want you in the front row. I’ll dedicate you each of my presentations, and each of my fans will love you as a daughter. You'll always be the only fan in my heart, Omma

-And your wife? And your daughters if you have any? - said his mother hiding her crying face in his son’s chest, jealous but anxious for the future he will have to face in the long time.

-Not even them, if I ever have daughters or a wife they won’t take your place. You're always going to be the perfect fan, Omma. I promise. My only real fan. The one who loved me and believed in me, even before anyone knew me.

"Even before my real mother, thank you"

(End of flashback)

The boy blinked back to reality. He checked the message and smiled at the short greeting from his sister.

Omma wants to know if you're okay. What are you doing? Love you.

KH

The teenager stood up and felt the air recovered. He felt as if his mother had just hugged him and had given him strength once again. Unable to erase the facial expression of happiness, quickly he typed his answer (a skill he had learned recently given the number of messages sent by his sister) and turned around to go back to the ballroom.

Before he could enter, the door opened and a surprised face showed up.

-Chullie?

-Oh, Joongie-ah

-What happened? – Jaejoong asked when he saw his friend with all his stuff at his back, ready to leave

-I had heard that people got desperate and resigned because of the dance trainings, but never heard they will throw someone from the rehearsal room for dancing his own style... - Heechul replied with a shrug – anyway, it’s ok. I’ll go to the cafeteria to catch something. I’m starving. See you later...

Saying this, Heechul stepped into the hall, walking with the grace that only he dominated. In fact, some people had said he should have tried modeling.

-KIM JAEJOONG! Are you recovered already?! -the instructor shouted from inside

-YES SIR!

And Jaejoong entered the room, closing the door behind him.

In another city, Jaejoong's sister read to his mother the message sent by his only son. And Mama Kim could only pray that everything was going well. In fact it was going well, he was 'Hero' after all.

"Tell Mom I love her. Very, very much. "

                                              Her precious child

***

Jaejoong and two friends were walking down at SM hall facilities, laughing and mocking the instructor who had fall in his last routine. The three were heading to the cafeteria which was outside the building. One of them was a new rookie who had won a dance contest in his area, but other than that, seemed to have no other talent. Jaejoong still had trouble pronouncing his name, so everyone called him Chun Chun. The other was his dongsaeng from class, Hyukjae.

Technically, Hyukjae was considered its 'hyung' because he had more time rehearsing, but because Jaejoong was older in age, he always called him 'dongsaeng'.

-I think it worked out great today, even you hyung. How brave! I didn’t think you'd come back - Hyukjae said looking at Jaejoong and giving him a knock at the back

-My fan wouldn’t forgive me if I’m loose - Jaejoong laughed

-Hahahahahhaa, I guess not - Hyukjae said, laughing too. He knew very well Jaejoong’s mum story.

-Isn’t that Heechul? - asked the rookie pointing at the reception building where 3 guys were laughing loudly, apparently resting from their daily routine.

-Yes, it’s Chullie - Jaejoong replied recognizing him immediately but not the others - but the other two I don’t know them

-I never like that guy, he kind of scares me - whispered Chun Chun

-Who? Chullie?

-Yes, he's always wanting to... you know ... - Chun Chun lowered his voice and bending, he whispered into Jaejoong’s ear - I think he's gay...

-What's wrong with that? – wondered Hyukae, strange of his friend’s reaction

Jaejoong was silent, waiting an answer from his friend.

-No problem, if he’s not trying to insinuate me

Jaejoong raised an eyebrow, surprised by the piece of information. Apparently he was not the only victim of his liberal friend Heechul. Interesting. Although both dangerous. Jaejoong wondered how many his friend would have tried to hook up. "And how many have finally fallen?"

-I wouldn’t like to walk into him, I don’t like the way he looks at me. Maybe I'm going back, need to practice, see you guys later

Saying this, the said Chun Chun walked away. Hyukjae watched him until there was no more trace of him and looked back at Jaejoong, who kept watching at the front trying to identify the two companions of his friend.

 "They seem to know them for years"

Apparently the strong look from Jaejoong got to Heechul and he turned around, distracted from his conversation. Heechul also stared at Jaejoong and after recognizing him in the distance, he gestured; waving and urging him to get close, with a smile.

Jaejoong waved back with a wave of hand but didn’t smile. Hyukjae; however, he greeted him with a broad smile.

-Shall we go? - asked Hyukjae with clenched teeth

-What do you think? It would be good to make more friends...

-I suppose

Jaejoong and Hyukjae started walking toward the group of young people who were sitting at the reception, with timid step. On the other hand, Heechul’s friends had already greeted someone, so they turned to see who it was.

The two young ones were about the same age as Jaejoong and Hyukjae. They were now completely turned over so they could see their faces. And they, their own. Jaejoong didn’t know whether he liked it or not. Be the center of attention among women was one thing, but men... he felt a little strange. On the other hand he took into consideration they would soon be training together, so he felt it was a good way to begin a friendship. His sisters always told that he looked very stoic, cold and distant. Maybe it wa time to change that.

As he approached Jaejoong saw more clearly the guys who accompanied his friend Heechul. Height, hair, mouth, skin, eyes, nose, mole... wait ... mole? And then Jaejoong went blank when he recognized one of them.

-Hyung, what happens?

Jaejoong had not noticed but had stopped his steps halfway.

Hyukjae took his hand and brought it up, making Jaejoong hit with his own palm on his cheek.

-Hyuuuuung ~~

Could it be him? The hair was a little longer, had highlights and some earrings in his left ear. His face shone and was wearing white and wide pants with yellow shirt. Nothing comparable with the friends who surrounded him, with old and faded jeans.

-Hyung, are you okay? Hyukjae asked, now scared and letting go the hand of his friend.

-Uhm? Ah! Yes, sorry... - Jaejoong replied nervous and kept walking.

It can’t be him. Can he?

Of course it may be him, you idiot! Why else did you come to SM?! You knew you'd find him! It was he who told you they were doing auditions!!

But why was him like that? Why was he wearing that look? In such a short time he managed to debut?

And those who were around him? None of them were with him the day I met him. And how did he know Heechul? Is he Heechul friend? One more of his victims?

What am I gonna say, damn it! He’ll  think I came to see him! Or that I came for him!

But you came for him.

But I said I wanted to be an artist, so it's normal to come on my own, right? After all SM is a prestigious company and...

Should I mention I know him already? Maybe yes... but why would they think? Would his friends bother me thinking I want to make good contacts? Obviously he's a step ahead...

- Hey Jaejoong, are you going to kiss me? - asked Heechul suddenly - at least expected there aren’t so many people, right?

Jaejoong had continued walking so focused that he didn’t realize how close he was from Heechul’s face, their noses almost touching.

-Ah!!! - Jaejoong yelled receding laughter from others

"Damn!"

The group laughed which made Jaejoong blush, avoiding their eyes. He quickly placed on the right side of Heechul while Hyukjae greeted everyone with a handshake.

-Heechul, who are your friends? Why don’t you introduce them? - asked the boy who had a cap that covered up his ears, receiving the handshake of the young one.

Heechul stepped at the center and placed both hands as a megaphone directing his voice toward the roof of the building so his voice will resonate more.

-Well gentlemen, the person who greets you at the moment is the phenomenon of nature Hyukjae, who has to do something soon to change that name...

-YAH!

-Consider it a tip, my dear friend... you should search for a new name that strikes more... In addition, you'll need a lot of help from producers and makeup if you’re chosen to debut. You have to immediately change the look of yours...

Hyukjae didn’t answer but if looks could kill, Heechul wouldn’t have survived more than two seconds there. But mentally he kept indications Heechul, considering for the future.

-And this cutie here is my new, hot and hope future best friend; Kim Jaejoong! - announced Heeechul then added quietly - I have my eyes on him, so you better stay away.

-, I've told you, stop saying that- replied Jaejoong but immediately looked down realizing where he was and he didn’t know them.

The boys laughed again this time from the audacity of Jaejoong, but continued when they saw how embarrassed he was.

-Hi! I’m Kangin - answered the boy with the cap stretching hand.

Jaejoong took his hand and bowed slightly to greet him.

-Are you a new trainee?

-Uhm

-And this manly sweetie here is the great Jung Yunho- announced Heechul pointing to the taller boy -who in a short time had made his way to work in a music video as a dancer of the big Dana

"Dana? Who is Dana?"

-Stop it – murmured the guy Jung Yunho who was mentioned.

Jaejoong lowered his head decided to hide the fact he knew him.

His hair had grown covering part of his eyes. Maybe he could go unnoticed. Also, what made him think he would remember Jaejoong? He seemed to been very busy since the last time they met. Maybe Jaejoong was one of those he get to know in his adventures through the city. Perhaps he never went to see him the next day of their meeting. Perhaps the letter he had left him was still in the drawer of the old desk. Perhaps he had thrown it away.

"If it comes a certain Jung Yunho gives him this letter, please"

He may never understand what it took to write that letter in haste while his mother put all his belongings in a bag to return home that night. Maybe Jung Yunho had had an anniversary with his girlfriend. Maybe he was already close to debut. Maybe now that Dana was his girlfriend. Perhaps Heechul was his girlfriend.

"Sick bastard"

Maybe ... maybe ... maybe...

He immediately felt a hand that grabbed and pulled him forward. Jaejoong opened his eyes in surprise when he was face to face with Yunho, their noses centimeters from each other, matching the compromising position he had been a few minutes ago with Heechul.

"Only now it doesn’t bother me"

-Kim Jaejoong from Chungnam, right?

Jaejoong blushed and without a word he nodded.

-YAH! Did you guy meet before?! – asked Heechul also surprised

-Kim Jaejoong, did I meet you before? - Yunho asked without looking

"You’re finally here ..."

-How did you meet? - asked Kangin

-Do you know him hyung? - inquired Hyukjae

-Uhm

-From where?

Yunho smiled, holding Jaejoong’s hand like the time after the street fight. Jaejoong never ceases to amaze Yunho for the softness of his skin.

At that time, Hyukjae’s phone rang and everyone got distracted as because it was the popular Hae Gyul Sa from Shinwa. Taking advantage the eyes were not fixed on them, Jaejoong let go Yunho's hand quickly getting close to Heechul.

-Hell Junsu-ah… Uhm ... yeah... still here... the front desk... with Jaejoong and friends of the diva... uhm... Heechul, Kangin and Jung Yunho... hahaha really? - Hyukjae covered the phone and turned to Yunho - Junsu says hello and says asks if you’re going back home together tonight

-Tell him I’ll call him later

"Junsu? Who is Junsu? That guy too? "

-Junsu-ah, Yunho hyung says he calls you... ok… your mom?... Oh! Wher should I look for her?... Ok ... I'll call you when I’m with her

Hyukjae hung up and turned to the others who were expectant.

-I have to go. Junsu's mom came to let him food and he’s still busy in the rehearsal room – he waved goodbye to everyone and ran toward the front door. Before leaving the building completely, -Hyukjae yelled – you have to tell me late how you two met, hyung!

And he disappeared.

"Damn, why couldn’t you leave it there?"

-True, how did you two meet?

-In a street fight- Yunho answered honestly

-Ah! My Joongie can fight? - asked Heechul resting an arm around Jaejoong’s shoulder

Jaejoong took his hand and disengage from above him, hoping that Yunho wouldn’t misinterpret anything.

"Misinterpret what, damn it?!!, Will you stop acting like a woman?

-Actually, I.. – Jaejoong began explaining

-He's a born fighter. I got near the end of the fight but Jaejoong was already responsible for almost all of it, He knocked them all by himself - Yunho answered not giving him time to respond.

Jaejoong was silent and looked surprised. Yunho seemed to understand the shame it would be for him to say he had been frightened by a group of thugs, to been rescued like a damsel in distress, by Yunho. That wouldn’t look good nor or never.

"Perhaps I will never mention how we really meet"

-Ohhhh, then are you friends?

-Well...

-Yeah right. Kim Jaejoong is a great friend

Jaejoong was once again speechless.

What’s going on with you? You’re not like this!  Yunho was taking every thought of him, he could hardly breathe. He was getting nervous.

And Yunho was in the same condition. Maybe even worse.

"Look at his eyes, had they grown in the time that I haven’t seen him?"

"Stop looking at me, I feel you’re inspecting me"

-Well, Kim Jaejoong is now part of our gang now. We need to meet more often. What do you say if today we go to Heechul's house for a few drinks? - invited Kangin

-Hear me well Kangin, you’re out of your mind if your think I let you go in my house again after you passed out drunk last time. Over my dead body you’ll set a foot in my front door. My cat doesn’t want to get to close thinking I’ll hang him from his tail like you tried to do.

Everyone laughed, including Kangin. Yunho laughed but watched Jaejoong from the corner of the eye.

"Your smile, God… was it so cute?"

-YUNHO!!! PRACTICE NOW!!! - Shouted a boy down the hall gesturing Yunho to go back to the room where he came from

Jaejoong made a slight pout, disappointed. He would have liked to spend more time together. Yunho gestured to his friend and looked back to the group.

-Then, I see you guys later, I have to go - quickly apologized Yunho and went back to his room

Jaejoong watched him go away quickly until something caught his attention. All eyes had turned to continue the conversation in the group but he kept staring at Yunho's broad back until...

Yunho stood at the rehearsal room’s door. Stopped his steps, turned around to look at the group that he left behind, and he found out Jaejoong was still watching over him. Jaejoong blushed again by... [How many times had already happened in the last hour?].

And before disappearing, Jaejoong saw him clearly. Maybe he was going crazy, but he could swear Yunho winked before disappearing into the room. Did he wink?! Did he wink at me?!

Jaejoong smiled slightly, pleased with himself. A single gesture, completely unnoticed by the rest had managed to make his day the best since joining the company. And that, couldn’t do anything else that give him happiness.

***

It was nine o'clock at night at SM Entertainment. The training day was partially completed due to a blown fuse on the fourth floor.  In consequence the day was considered a holiday for trainees who were already on their way home, happy to be able to get dinner with their families.

Jaejoong; however, had no family waiting for him at home; so he didn’t hurry to go back to his apartment. That night he would go to town for a single beer at the market stalls, and then he’ll go back to his place to spend the rest of the day listening to music which would serve to modulate his voice. A cigar also wouldn’t hurt.

"Maybe I’ll buy one in the market"

He walked down the aisle toward the exit, thinking what groceries were missing at home; with his headphones on and humming a song that started repeating to accompany him on the trip.

As he turned the corner and found again the reception where he had seen Yunho in the morning, he felt steps following him.

He quickly tried to ignore them but that warning sense he had always possessed didn’t let him relax. He stopped and decided to confront the person that came after him if he was really following him.

The stranger figure also stopped.

Jaejoong decided he had two choices. Or he turned and faced him or ran as fast as he could to gain advantage over the stalker.

To Jaejoong those things no longer surprised him. Throughout his life he had encountered many stalkers and had learned to deal with them.

-Yes, I am a man and no, I'm not interested in a fun night! - Jaejoong yelled turning to face the person who followed him.

What he saw; however, froze his blood and made his pressure lowered to dangerous levels. He started to see blurry too.

-Yu ... Yu ... Yunho...

-What a pity you don’t want to spend a fun night. I was going to invite you to Heechul’s house. I think Kangin convinced him at the end to make a small gathering…

Jaejoong was silent again. Apparently it was a typical reaction when he was in front of that man. He didn’t understand very well why it happened though. Usually he was shy at the beginning but once he get his confidence he wouldn’t stop talking. In fact his sisters always had to cut him when they had family gatherings because he was always the center of attention.

-I'm sorry... I...

-Did you think I was a ert?

-Yes... I mean no... I mean... is that... I... aish!

-hahahahahahahahahahahah

"Enough! How much humiliation you need Kim Jaejoong?"

-So… you came - Yunho started to get closer, walking toward the exit side by side with Jaejoong

-Eh?!

-You came to the audition…

-Oh! Yes... I won a contest and I was accepted

-Let me guess, better look?

-How did you know that?

-Jaejoong honestly I don’t think you miss other talents, but ‘that’ should be certainly one that is obvious - Yunho replied boldly

Jaejoong blushed and made the decision to don’t slide more mistakes in their conversation, trying to keep his more natural tone.

-Well, I’ve been training since a month ago, and you?

-I was like you a while ago. Not anymore, now I have professional rehearsals…

-Sounds nice

-Since that last time we met I came here and practiced really hard. To be honest I always thought this moment would come true. It seems strange I haven’t seen you before, I practically live here.

-I practice almost every day, I spend the day stuck in the dance halls and in another venue, where we practiced singing

-I've been there before, isn’t it great?

-Yes

-I… I went back to get you, you know? The next day...

"He came back, back, back!... then that means..."

-I didn’t want you to think I had run, so... – Jaejoong tried to explain

-Yes, I know. So you wrote the letter. I knew you'd come for that, too

Jaejoong smiled remembering what he had written in such a hurry that day.

"Yunho-yah,

My mom came for me. Although we promised ourselves to share a few drinks, I don’t think I can do it. Guess what? You were right. My mother accepted me with open arms. This time I want to do things right and with her blessing. I'm going back home and then she promised me we’ll prepare everything for me to move to Seoul. SM Entertainment sounds like a good opportunity; if I can go I hope we meet again.

Plus I hope I can pay you one day for saving me. I haven’t told my mother because I don’t want to see her cry or worry, but I'm sure she would appreciate you help also if she knew.

Thanks to you she has a an intact  son by her side, instead of a bruised one.

 

My sincere thanks once again, Yunho. In this life or another, I must repay you.

I've learned not to say goodbye, so... 'see you'.

 

Your friend for a day,

Kim Jaejoong

 

Yunho had received the letter with full hope. Grinning from ear to ear thinking that that 'see you' was a good indicator that their time together under the same sky wasn’t over. It wasn’t over yet.

 

The concierge couldn’t understand why he had been out with a smile plastered on his face, when he had just lost a few beers. Yunho thought not all was lost. He was sure he would see him in Seoul. He didn0t have the slightest doubt.

 

And now Jaejoong was by his side.

 

-Why didn’t you want them to know we met before?- Yunho rebuked to the shorter

-Huh?

-When we were together earlier, I had to say we already met, you didn0t say it

-Oh... well, I just... don’t want them to think I'm trying to gain popularity meeting a more experienced hyung

-What?

-Well, it's obvious you're one step ahead. If they know, they might think I'm trying to make contacts. My mom always told me that one must start from the bottom... I want to do that...

-Oh!! I understand... I'm sorry; I shouldn’t have mentioned it then?

-No, it’s ok... They seem to be good friends, I don’t think there would be problems

-Actually, I'm not an experienced hyung, Jaejoong

 

They reached the front door and Yunho opened it so Jaejoong could go out first. Outside the night air brushed his cheeks, freezing them. Both put on the hoods of their jackets and zip them up to cover as much as they could, the exposed skin.

 

-What are you talking about? You have experience in dance; you've changed your look, and appear on a music video right? - insisted Jaejoong

-I haven’t appear on the video yet, Heechul was exaggerating... Yunho apologized, a bit uncomfortable with the attention the other gave him - ... but I'm rehearsing for that

-See? You are the most experienced among us

-So you're going to call me hyung? - Yunho asked smirking and looking askance at Jaejoong

-Can I?

 

Jaejoong was gradually regaining his courage, as they talked more. It was one of those moments when you began to feel comfortable and could be yourself.

 

-Of course

-Hyung! Hyung! Hyung! Hyung!

-hahahahaha

 

"I always want to hear your laugh"

 

-Then, you’re going to Heechul’s?

 

"Invite me. Come on. Tell me to go with you”

 

-Actually I lied...

 

"Oh"

 

-I was going to Junsu’s house. He lives closer than me; slightly closer... today  I want to be there early

 

"Junsu. That name again. When did you learn to be so possessive Jaejoong? "

 

-Oh

-Junsu is friends with Hyukjae and entered SM even before me. We became good friends and because I don’t make much money I live at his home temporarily. It takes less time from his house to here than my house too...

-Really?

-Um, at home things are not quite good, either. I needed to get away for a while...

 

Jaejoong looked worried and putting his hands in his pocket, he clenched his fists taking courage to dare to ask.

 

-Is it something I can help you?

 

"How I had called you when I first saw you? Angel. That’s what you are, angel"

 

-No, it's a family problem. My dad doesn’t approve my choice to be a singer

-I understand...

-That's ironic, isn’t?! It’s the same situation where you were when we met

-Your also ran away then?

-Something like that. That’s why I didn’t say much when you told me you ran away. I understood exactly how you felt. My dad is the man I most admire, I don’t ever want to disappoint him... but this is what makes me happy; and I know I can help him in time if I become famous

-Help them?

 

"But what are you doing? You don’t have to tell him all your problems"

 

-Ahhh!! I'm talking nonsense - Yunho rubbed his hands trying to calm

-It’s all right, I...

-No no no... I've heard that only talk about your problems to your friends will make you lose them

-What kind of friend would do that, Yunho?

-Hyung... – corrected Yunho

-Ah?

-Call me hyung! You said you would call me hyung

-...

-It's nothing to worry Jaejoong, at the moment I'm fine with the Kims but I don’t know... sometimes... sometimes it's uncomfortable

-Uncomfortable?

-Umh

-Why uncomfortable? Do they treat you bad?

-Oh no! Of course not!! His mom is an angel! And his dad too, they’re always taking care of me. Actually they wanted to come to pick me up today with the car but I told them would take a little longer. At least until natural daylight can’t be seen...

-So what is bothering you?

-Well, sometimes I end my practice late because I consider I need to practice more… and you see? I don’t like to bother them. Junsu’s family is very good but has a routine. They make the most of their time, doing things on time. They wake up early, sleep early, meals should be on time, everyone should help with home tasks... and it feels wonderful. In fact it it’s the same in my house, but with the little time I have to achieve my dreams; I’m not always early at home, and because I’m so tired I’m not very helpful with housework

-I understand

-I’m sorry, shouldn’t be talking about this...

 

As they walked they had reached the main road, where cars were separated in both directions, to reach as soon as possible their destination that night. On each side of the road small trees and benches gave an aura of relaxation. Yunho wondered if they would sit there in the future to talk.

 

-All right, I'd feel the same if I were in your place – answered Jaejoong stopping his track

-I'm going right. My bus stop is in that way - Yunho said, stopping for a moment too and gesturing the direction of the road

-Me too!

 

"We can go together"

 

They kept walking while Yunho continued his story.

 

-Junsu is indeed a wonderful person, you have to know him! The next time I see him, I'll introduce you

-Sure...

 

“Your friends are my friends, I promise”

 

“I want everyone to know you, I know you and know you are mine ... my friend"

 

-What bus do  you take?

-1082 or 1000, you?

-1113... I could take the 1009. It’s more comfortable but it takes too many turns, the other is faster ... the only problem is that takes a long time to pass. In addition I have to...

-Where are you living with Junsu?- Jaejoong interrupted

-Gwangyu, is the same city

-Oh

-As I said I'm with them only for a while, I hope everything will change when I get my first payment for the video I will make with Dana, and then I can move

 

Jaejoong had seconds to think, and without hesitation the words left his mouth like torpedoes.

 

-Hey Yunho...

-Uhm?

-Here is a crazy idea...

-What?

-Why don’ you move with me?

 

"I cannot believe I had said it. Did I say that? Did I say it out loud? I said it out loud!! WHAT

THE HELL IS WRONG WITH ME?! "

 

Yunho stopped his step and turned to Jaejoong surprised to see him.

 

-Eh?!

-Well, I'm living in the same city. My bus only takes twenty minutes to SM. That gives you time to come and go anytime. Plus you'll stay late because there will be nobody to bother you.

-Are you serious?- Yunho had his mouth open and wasn’t blinking

-Sure- Jaejoong was beginning to blush for the last time that night - in fact for me is better, it’s not nice to come home alone... there is a friend who told me that perhaps he was moving but he moved with his girlfriend, so... what do you think?

-What do I think?

-Yes...

 

Yunho suddenly surprised him a firm hug, which won many curious eyes on the street. He hugged him tightly, swinging their bodies from side to side completely captivated with the moment. Happy as perhaps he hadn’t been in years. Jaejoong felt Yunho aroma expanding in every neuron of his brain.

 

-JAEJOONG THAT WOULD BE GREAT!! GREAT!! THAT WOULD BE WONDERFUL!! IT WOULD HELP ME INMENSELY!! CAN I REALLY MOVE WITH YOU?!

 

Jaejoong nodded, his face buried in Yunho’s chest, with downcast eyes waiting for Yunho to let him go. Yet wanting him wanting it to last forever. He’s heat was now expanded and Jaejoong thought the body heat of Yunho always could work better than heating.

 

-Great great great!! - Yunho shouted- Thank you, Jaejoong! Thank you, thank you, and thank you

-Then, is that a yes?

-Of course it's a yes, we’re going to live together!- Yunho said still screaming down the street and letting go of Jaejoong to continue his path - it will be great!! I KNEW IT WASN’T COINCIDENCE TO MEET YOU IN THE STREET! THINGS HAPPENED FOR A REASON!

 

Jaejoong could only agree while Yunho gave small jumps on his way, but didn’t wipe the smile off from his face.

While they were walking down the avenue, Jaejoong had never felt more blessed than at that time. With only $5 in his pocket, an old jacket that left the cold invades his bones, a bad haircut and a friend by his side. A wonderful friend.

 

A friend like that once knew as a child and never saw again.

 

-Decided. Then we have to coordinate some things but let me know when you can move in

-The earliest I can I let you know

 

Yunho was right; people appear in your path for a reason. Jaejoong felt there could be many things wrong in his future life, and that he was still quite young, but Yunho would never be one of them.

He was in his life to make it more pleasant, lighter, funnier, more... complete.

 

-Is this your bus stop?

-Huh? Yes

 

Without realizing Jaejoong and Yunho had already reached the nearest stop, and stood waiting with other trainees, a great mass of young people waiting for their buses.

 

"Delay, delay... delay.."

 

-Is that your bus?

 

"Damn!"

 

Indeed, one block and a half away, Jaejoong’s bus appeared, and there were already some people in line waiting for the driver to open its door.

Jaejoong reached his small backpack taking his transport card and turned to leave.

 

-You’re lucky! My bus always takes a long time - Yunho complained with a pout

-Actually it’s fortunate that mine is here early too. Takes time…

 

"Yes, damn my luck"

 

-Well, you'll be home early

-Actually, I hadn’t thought...

-Whydon’tweseeeachothertomorrowearly? -Yunho asked, the words so fast he wondered if Jaejoong would have understood

 

"Huh?"

 

-Well, I heard from Heechul you've had some problems with your dance moves, do you want me to teach you?

-Really?!

-Sure. I think it might be the best way to pay you for let me stays with you

 

The bus then parked in front of them and Jaejoong let people start climbing before him, hoping to be the last.

-Seriously You don’t have to...

-But I want to. Come on... let me teach you

 

"It's like the time he begged me to come to my house"

 

-It's just... I don’t want to be a bother, I...

-Jaejoong-ah, I said that I am very insistent? If something gets into my head it is very difficult for me to give up on it, as now. I have my eyes on you, you won’t get rid of me so easily

 

"Did I say that? That came out of my mouth? Did I say that out loud? What the hell!! I have to fix it"

 

-As a friend. I feel you push me away as a friend... and I had told you Jaejoong, I like you, let me be your friend?

-My Friend? - Jaejoong had the curious feeling of having lived that moment above

 

Yunho smiled, his crooked teeth and strange hair made him look like a squirrel. The one he had seen many times in his book of animals as a child.

 

-Are you coming? - asked the bus driver willing to start the engine seeing that the boy was distracted and there wasn’t more people waiting at the bus stop.

-Yes... Sorry ... - Jaejoong quickly apologized - Yunho, I…

-Hyung

-Hyung, I gotta go hahaha -Jaejoong began climbing the first rungs of the bus

-Tomorrow?

 

Jaejoong slide his buss pass on the machine.

 

-Huh?- Jaejoong turned

-7 Am at the door of SM, I'll wait

 

Jaejoong nervous laughed and nodded.

 

-OK OK HYUNG!! AS HIS MAJESTY ORDERS- shouted

-AS YOUR FRIEND ORDERS!!

-HAHAHAHAHA

-I'll see you tomorrow Jaejoong - Yunho waved goodbye in farewell

 

Jaejoong was about to pass the safety bar when suddenly he spun around. "One moment, please ajhussi"

 

-What are you doing? - Yunho asked Seeing Jaejoong fell rapidly pulling something from his backpack.

 

Before Yunho understand what was going on Jaejoong took his hand and paint some numbers in his hand.

 

-It's my cell, we’ll coordinated there- said Jaejoong

Saying this, he smiled and quickly climbed back to the bus, to the astonishment of the driver who didn’t quite understand what was going on between these two young men who looked like a young couple.

 

Yunno heard a vague: "See you tomorrow Yunho-yah" and saw the bus dissapear.

 

Once seated, Jaejoong was aware of what he had done, and his lips numb. Jaejoong felt those words float on his lips. "Yunho-yah”. Now he was his friend. Now they have a life together. From that moment, and if all went well, Yunho would be part of many moments in his life. A fact that made him happy.

 

Did Yunho still have a girlfriend? It doesn’t matter. His girlfriend wouldn’t spend all day at his side as he. Did he have more friends? It doesn’t matter. In the few times they had seen, Jaejoong had proved to be more valuable than none.

 

But what scared him the most was: Would he ever debut?

 

-You have to!"

-His motivation was slowly changing.

 

Jaejoong wasn’t pursuing one dream now, he was pursuing two.

 

-Being an idol

 

To stay by Yunho side the greatest amount of time possible.

 

And Yunho?

 

Yunho had been waving his hand, Jaejoong’s farewell still ringing in his ears. That ‘Yunho-yah' Jaejoong spoke softly, made his word upside down. As air through his voice, which made him so delicate.

 

With the stupidest smile that he had until then, he pulled out his cell phone, and sent a message to Heechul. Of all the times in his life that would be the happiest. That person who had just left made him happy. Inexplicably happy. And he would take care that that happiness doesn’t disappear.

 

He would help Jaejoong to be hired by SM as him. He would help Jaejoong to not feel alone anymore in that great city. He would help Jaejoong whenever he go home to keep him away from those erted men who disturbed him every day.

 

Because the dream of Yunho had also changed.

 

1. Being an idol.

 

2. Protect Jaejoong as much as possible.

 

Both young guys sighed heavily and mentally counted the hours until they would see again.

 

***

 

In a small department of the city of Seoul, six friends celebrate the early release of SM rehearsals, while Kangin was asleep in the middle of a room, completely intoxicated by all the soju he had taken.

 

Heechul then covered him with a blanket when he suddenly received a message on his cellphone.

 

Slowly he pulled the device from his pocket and read a message from Yunho.

 

"I found him. Thank you for telling me what time he goes home, hyung. I'll see him tomorrow morning. Plan succeeded"

 

Heechul closed his cell and smiled mischievously.

 

-Looks like I laid eyes on him too late. Well done Jung Yunho.

 

He went back to his friends who were totally drunk already. One small one called Chun chun had begun to get too affectionate so Heechul thought his luck, might be a little better than Yunho’s, that night.