A year later
Renjun stares at his reflection and frowns. The dress is pretty but it's not right. Somehow, it's too elegant and while Renjun normally enjoys the look, right now, it doesn't feel right.
"What's wrong?" Alyssa asks softly, upon seeing the look on his face.
"I don't feel enough like myself."
"That's okay", Lena says quickly. "Do you know what the issue is? Anything you can add?"
"One, the skirt isn't big enough. Two, I don't think I want a slit. I'm also not sure...", Renjun trails off and sighs. "I don't know what color. I think I might want it to be white but I also don't know how I feel about a white dress." Renjun moves to a chair and groans.
"We have time", Jaemin says softly, moving to rub Renjuns back. "Are you sure you wanna do this right now?"
"I recommend a snack break."
"Alyssa actually has a point."
Alyssa looks at her brother in offense. "Of course I do."
"Let's do that", Jaemin says, guiding Renjun to his feet. Haechan takes the other side of him, linking his arm with Renjuns. The two escort him out of the studio with Alyssa and Lena following behind. There are two restaurants just across the street and lucky for Renjun, it's an easy decision.
Haechan and Jaemin insist on paying, which no one complains about and once they're done, they decide to leave so Renjun can have more space. They take turns hugging him and kissing his cheek and Jaemin threatens Lena not to allow Renjun to stress himself out, which makes Haechan and Alyssa laugh. Lena promises to watch over Renjun and kisses her girlfriend goodbye, which earns loud responses from their audience that would be embarrassing if anyone else was around.
When Renjun enters the studio, he doesn't get to work right away. He just scrolls on his phone and texts for forty-five minutes before deciding to look up some dress inspiration. After ten minutes of finding nothing, he gets up and goes to critique the dress he made. Immediately, he notices the same problems he pointed out earlier but he also realizes that he just doesn't like fabric. It's too simple and though it's nice that it can hold its shape, he wants something more flowy. Renjun stares at the skirt, imagining it with changes he thinks he wants and eventually comes up with something he likes. He picks up the sketchpad on the table across from him and creates a list for the skirt. Next is the bodice, which is its own problem because Renjun thought he knew what he wanted until he wore it.
Lena, who'd been in a separate room to give him space, comes in and finds him furiously scribbling against the sketchpad. She lets out a sigh, happy that Renjun seems to have figured out something but worried. She waits for a few minutes before leaving again.
When she comes back, she finds Renjun in the same position as before but his pencil is still. Then her gaze slowly moves over to the crumpled paper balls on the desk in front of him.
"Okay", she says, taking the pencil out of his hand. "You're done for today, me and Jaemin's orders."
"I'm the one that pays you."
"You can't pay me if you're dead." She pulls him up from the chair. "Come on. Let's call it a day and we can start bright and early tomorrow."
Renjun rolls his eyes but he doesn't fight it, not opposed to going home and cuddling with his fiances for the rest of the day. Lena walks him all the way to his car and tells him she's gonna tell Sungchan and Winwin not to work until eight a.m. tomorrow before saying bye with a smile and a wave
"I'm home!" Renjun calls, entering the apartment.
"Hi honey!"
"Hey babe!"
"Hey love!"
"Hi sweetheart!"
"How nice", Renjun deadpans, going to hug Haeun and then Sungchan and Winwin and the rest of his friends. "Why are you guys here?"
As if on cue, Shotaro and Yangyang pretend they've been hit in the heart and groan as they dramatically fall to the floor, with Yangyang partly laying on Shotaro. Their audience exchanges amused smiles as they watch them in silence. Xiaojun is the first to do anything, reaching over to carefully slide Yangyang's wallet out of his pocket. He moves over to the same to Shotaro, only to get threatened with his friends fist.
"Try it."
Xiaojun grins and boops Shotaro's nose, which makes everyone laugh. "Aren't you cute?" Ignoring the threat, he grabs the wallet. "You don't need money if you're dead."
Shotaro sits up, scoffing. "You're next."
"Sure, I am."
"I'm telling your husband."
"You do that."
Shotaro flips Xiaojun off as he leans against Hendery.
"Are you guys just gonna let him hold your wallets?" Haeun asks.
"Yeah, I'm not worried."
"Same."
"Can I hold your wallets then?"
➳
"What's this?" Johnny asks, walking into the kitchen, only lit up by candles.
He watches Jaehyun finishes pouring a glass of wine and then looks up and smiles at him, showing off his cute dimples.
Jaehyun makes his way over to Johnny and takes hold of his boyfriends waist. Johnny immediately wraps his arms around the males neck and pulls him a little closer. "I was thinking we could have a date night. I made your favorite."
He absolutely adores the beautiful smile on his gorgeous boyfriends and face and leans in to kiss it, already getting distracted by Johnny. Johnny feels himself flush from Jaehyuns gaze and even though it's probably too dark to see, he still looks down. Only a few seconds pass before Jaehyun uses gentle fingers to make him look back up, making Johnny feel even shyer. Jaehyun chuckles, finding Johnny even cuter than he already does.
After a minute, Johnny speaks up, "I'm not at all opposed to this but I'm just wondering, is there really no reason? I'm not forgetting something, am I?"
Jaehyun shakes his head. "You're not forgetting anything. I just really like making you smile but I also just want you to know how special you are to me and that I feel so lucky I get to be your boyfriend."
"I still get surprised when you're like this."
"Romantic?"
"That, I'm getting used to. I meant sweet."
Johnny bursts into a fit of giggles as he looks at Jaehyuns stunned expression, mouth open and all. He kisses the corner of his boyfriends lips and smiles, waiting for Jaehyun to inevitably snap out of it. A few seconds later, Jaehyun sighs, heart growing warm as he looks at Johnny.
"This seriously isn't fair", he tells him.
"What?"
"How you're so pulchritudinous."
Johnny laughs, surprised by the word. "What?"
"Beautiful", Jaehyun answers. "You're also so cute and so pretty and gorgeous and wonderful. Don't you think you should save some for other people?" Johnny just shakes his head, cheeks warm with slight embarrassment. Jaehyuns lips curve into a tiny smile, watching him. He gives into his urge to kiss Johnny again and hears a little gasp escape him which threatens to send his mind running wild. Johnny recognizes this and kisses Jaehyun again and again, varying the length and placement of his kisses until Jaehyun tightens his grip on his waist and lets out a quiet groan. "How am I supposed to focus on anything now?"
"I'm sure you'll figure it out."
Johnny escapes Jaehyuns grasp and goes over to where the food is waiting on the stove. Before grabbing it, he checks the fridge and freezer, satisfied that there's dessert and then brings the food to the table. Jaehyun insists on serving him, so he lets him, amused by his boyfriends behavior.
"Do you feel like going out?" Jaehyun asks when Johnny finishes eating.
"Where are we going?"
"Can it be a surprise?"
Johnny nods. "Sure. Let me eat dessert first, though."
➳
Sungchan can't help but smile as he holds Renjuns hand and watches him practice twirling into him and back out. Winwin, who's watching both of them, smiles at the look on Sungchans face. He stays in place for another minute before deciding to kiss Sungchans forehead.
"What was that for?"
"I love you."
Winwin adores the way Sungchans face brightens, smiling even wider. "I love you too." He turns to Renjun. "You too."
Renjuns eyes soften as he looks at the two people he can't wait to marry. "I love you both too."
Renjun leans towards Winwin who gets the hint and kisses him, softly and sweetly. It's hard for Winwin to pull away but he does, wanting Sungchan to have a chance. The kiss with Sungchan is short and just as sweet as before, causing Renjuns heart to swell with love.
"Your turn", Sungchan says, reaching out for his other fiance.
Winwin takes his hand and interlocks their fingers before tugging Sungchan towards him. Sungchan stumbles but he's able to grab onto Winwin's arm to stabilize himself. He playfully rolls his eyes right before leaning in and giving him a peck. Renjun and Sungchan giggle at the shock on their fiance's face. Winwin rolls his eyes and then pulls Sungchan even closer and places a hand on his waist to keep him there so he can kiss him the way he wants to. When he pulls away, he's delighted to find Sungchans lips swollen and his face flushed. It's adorable. The way Renjun laughs lets Winwin know he agrees. Sungchan is usually more confident, now used to being in a relationship he didn't think he'd ever get to be a part of but sometimes, like now, it hits him, causing a wave of giddiness and love to surge through him.
"You're so cute", Renjun tells him, which only makes the problem worse.
"You too", Sungchan replies, trying to keep himself from getting nervous. He really should be over it at this point but that just hasn't happened yet.
"I'm so excited to marry you two", Renjun admits, honestly content to just stay here and admire the two for as long as possible
"I'd hope so. We're in quite deep."
"I can't believe this is happening", Sungchan admits. "I thought I'd always be on the sidelines while my friends had relationships and then I fell for you two and I was so scared. It was hard and I didn't want to ruin our friendship. It was also scary finding out how obvious I am from Haeun."
Winwin laughs. "We're just as obvious apparently. Just not self-aware."
Renjun takes each of their hands and pulls them in close. "I'm glad we got it figured out now. I love you too a lot."
"We love you too."
➳
Jisung
Renjun
Can I ask you a question?
Jisung
Go ahead
Renjun
Did you want your parents at your wedding?
Jisung
Yes and no
Yes because they're my parents and I love them but no because of how they treated me
I felt guilty but it's not uncommon to feel guilty about a "selfish" decision. They hadn't tried to make amends with me at that time and I'm not even sure they understood what they had to apologize for
I didn't invite them because they didn't deserve it and I wanted to spend that day and really every day but my really special days with people who I know love me and care about me and treat me well
Renjun
I see. I'm glad you did what's best for you. I'm just having a hard time cause I invited my parents and our relationship has always been rocky. I'm gonna wear a dress which at this point should show them it's part of who I am but I don't know. I think I'm just worried my wedding day is gonna be another day where I have to prove something to them
Jisung
Are they likely to cause some type of disturbance to you?
Renjun
My dad is better but I think he just gave up. I don't know about my mom. I want them there but I want them to be peaceful while they're there
Jisung
Would talking to them help? I'll even do it
Renjun
You would talk to my parents?
Jisung
The older I get, the less people's parents scare me and it would be for you so yeah, I would do it if you wanted me to
Renjun
I appreciate it but I don't think that's necessary. Thank you though
Jisung
The offer stays standing. You're welcome
Renjun
I'm gonna try talking to them. Well maybe my dad
Dad
Renjun
I want you and Mom at my wedding but you both have to be okay with the fact that I'm marrying two guys and I'm going to wear a sparkly gown because I still like glitter and dresses
And guys obviously
I'm also going to wear makeup because I like that too
Dad
I assume you're under the impression I didn't know that
Because I do
Many years ago I probably wouldn't be okay with it but I realized that it's not up to me or your mom. You're our child and all we're supposed to do is love and support you. I'm sorry we didn't do that right until you were an adult who could hold your own
You don't need us to be proud of you but we are and I hope you're proud of yourself. I'm happy if you're happy and you're clearly going to do what makes you happy so I'm all good. I love you, Renjun
Renjun
I love you too, Dad
What about Mom?
Dad
She's coming around. Your cousin yelled at her once
Renjun
What?
Why didn't I know this?
Dad
I assumed she would tell you. It was around the time you posted that video explaining why didn't pick your parents as your favorite people. It stung but we deserved it. Your mom complained and Stella overheard and went off on her. Your mom did not look happy and it was hard to talk to her for a bit but overtime, especially once you got engaged, she's been more open
I told her we're lucky you invited us and she got quiet like she does when she doesn't want to admit you're right
Renjun
Nothing would've stopped me from inviting you, I just wouldn't want to worry about you two
Dad
Is that why we're having this conversation?
Renjun
Yes. I'm glad things are getting better but even if it was just for that day, I want you both to be happy for me. In the past, I would've glammed out to stick it to you but I don't want to do that. I just want to enjoy my day without feeling like I have to prove a point
Dad
I'm sorry we ever made you feel the need to do that. You don't need to prove anything to anyone ever. Enjoy your day, I promise we won't get in the way of that
Renjun
Okay, thank you
Dad
Do not thank me for this, it's what we're supposed to do
Renjun
I think it's rude to take my thanks back
Dad
Uno reverse or undo then
There
Renjun
Okay 😂 I'm gonna text mom
Dad
You do that
Mom
Renjun
I love you
Mom
I love you too
I know I've been difficult but that's something that hasn't changed and I'd like you to know that
Renjun
I think I knew that
Mom
Well now you know for sure
I also never told you that you're talented. I watch all your videos and I don't doubt you're going to make something for your wedding and whatever that is is going to look great on you and you're going to look great
I'm also getting too old to care and if any of this was a phase like I initially thought, I'm sure you would've grown out of it by now
I'm embarrassed that it took so long to realize and that that realization didn't come all on its own
Renjun
I heard Stella yelled at you
Mom
Yes and though I didn't enjoy it, I think it was necessary
She loves you very much and I'm offended other people did what I was supposed to do so much better than me
I might be a little surprised sometimes but my head is pretty much out of my ass. You don't have to worry
Renjun
I want to say thank you but Dad told me not to say it
Mom
He's right
We love you, honey
Renjun
I love you both too
"Hey", Sungchan says, causing Renjun to look up. "Everything okay?"
Renjun nods, giving him a small smile. Sungchan sits down next to him and Renjun doesn't hesitate to cuddle into him. "Everything seems better now."
Sungchan squishes Renjun further against him to kiss his head, causing his fiance to smile. "I'm glad. I should tell Jisung that."
"Did he text you?"
"Mhm. He asked if I was home and then he asked if you were okay and that you probably want cuddles."
"Well, he's correct", Renjun says, getting even closer to Sungchan.
"Should we ask Haechan for a picture of Winwin?"
"Yes, yes we should."
➳
Kun, Winwin, Haechan
Jaehyun
Okay I'll try not to make a habit of this but really Johnny is just so beautiful
He smiled and it's actually one of the best things I've ever seen
Haechan
On behalf of me and Mark, please make a habit of this
Kun
Just go ahead, this isn't anything new to us
Winwin
I know a lot of it is me but I'm taking Haechan down with me
Haechan
That is not going to make me stop invading your personal space
Winwin
Wasn't even thinking about that
"What are you doing?" Johnny asks, peeking over at Jaehyun's phone.
Jaehyun turns off his phone and gives him a small smile as he answers, "I sent a text about you."
"What did you say?"
"You're beautiful."
Johnny laughs and looks down, though Jaehyun doesn't miss the red tinge on his cheeks. "I should really get used to this, shouldn't I?"
Jaehyun shrugs. "If it's easier. I don't exactly mind this reaction."
"Of course you don't."
Just feeling like it, Jaehyun takes Johnny's hand and pulls him close so he can place a chaste kiss on his lips that does nothing to stop Johnny's blush from deepening. Words are on the tip of Jaehyun's tongue but he doesn't know if they're right or how Johnny would take it so he changes to what's safer. "I really, really like you."
He gets another kiss in return, followed by that gorgeous smile he adores so much. "I really, really like you too."
Marky
Jaehyun
MARK
Marky
ARE YOU OKAY YOU CALLED ME MARK AND YOU NEVER DO THAT
Jaehyun
I'm okay, I just needed your attention
Marky
Okay, what is it?
Jaehyun
I almost said I love you to Johnny earlier
Marky
I'm gonna need a minute
Haechan
Haechan
What did you say to Mark?
Jaehyun
We'll discuss it another time
Haechan
Fine
I think he's done now
Jaehyun
Did he scream?
Haechan
No he just squealed and squeezed everything near him which included me. It was adorable
Jaehyun
That sounds adorable
I need him back so bye
Haechan
Bye
Marky
Marky
Okay
I'm not calm but I'm fine
Jaehyun
Right...
Marky
Tell me more
Jaehyun
I was really close to saying it but I stopped myself because I don't know exactly how I mean that and I feel like it might make Johnny put his guard back up if it doesn't seem believable
Marky
You don't have to say it but you could explain that to him. I also think he'd be less in disbelief than before because you've taken time to develop your relationship and he knows that you're going at your pace with your feelings
Though it would definitely catch him off-guard. That's okay though
Jaehyun
I'd rather tell him when I know how I mean it but I'm also afraid it's just gonna slip out
Marky
Can you feel it? Like in your chest?
Jaehyun
Uh yeah
Marky
Have you ever felt like this about me?
Jaehyun
I don't think so
With Johnny, some things are familiar but then things are different
Marky
Awesome. You love him and you should tell him
Whenever you're ready
I think Johnny is still getting used to the fact that he has you in this way but he trusts you and your feelings for him. That's literally why you have a boyfriend
Jaehyun
Thank you Marky 🙄
Marky
And just to make sure, you're not doubting if he'll say it back, right?
Jaehyun
I'm not. I know he does but I am thinking about the fact that he used to hate it
Marky
Jaeeeeeee
Jaehyun
Markyyyyyyyyy
Marky
It's clearly taking you a while but try to move past that. It's all good now
Jaehyun
I just want it to stay that way
Marky
I'm pretty sure it will
➳
Yangyang, Xiaojun, Hendery, and Shotaro look at Renjun, Sungchan, and Winwin curiously, wondering what's in the four gift boxes in front of them and why they look either happy (Winwin), nervous (Sungchan), or both (Renjun).
"What's in this?" Yangyang asks, touching the top of the box in front of them.
"Something", Renjun answers and then looks to Sungchan and Winwin, who nod. "Open it."
At once, they each open the box which contains a drawstring pouch of chocolates, one of their favorite snacks, a pocket square of one of their favorite colors, and a note-card that reads 'Will you be my best man?' all covered in silver heart-shaped confetti.
"There's four of us and three of you", Shotaro points out and then looks around and realizes his pocket square is the same color as Xiaojun's, causing him to look up at Sungchan in confusion.
"We will explain", Winwin tells them and brings his focus to Hendery. "If I'm being honest, you're the best example of a true best friend. You're always there for everyone and you know us well enough to know what works. You're also so patient with all of us and I know you don't say everything you think but you make sure that we know you care. You're also so comfortable and calming to be around."
"True", Yangyang agrees.
"I'm very happy to have you in my life and I would love if you'd do me the honor of being my best man."
Shotaro easily identifies the smile his partner is trying to hold back and grins. "I'm gonna hear all about this later."
Hendery rolls his eyes and brings his attention to Winwin and gives him a small smile. "Yes." He feels himself get nudged off his seat and looks at Shotaro in betrayal. "What was that for?"
"Hug him, you dummy!"
"I-", Hendery doesn't get to finish speaking as he gets pushed forward right into Winwin's waiting arms. He hears their friends laugh, prompting him to flip them off behind his back. What he doesn't see if the way Yangyang gently shoves Shotaro before saying, "Taro, that's your cue."
Shotaro tries to fight down his blush and gives his friends a playful eyeroll instead. "I hate you guys so damn much."
"Is this your new way of telling us you love us? We love you too."
Shotaro sighs and then looks up at Renjun and Sungchan and waves for them to continue. Winwin chooses this time to release Hendery, but not before giving his forehead a kiss that sends their audience into another fight of laughter, specifically because of the way Hendery's face had changed at the action.
"I'll go next", Renjun says and turns his attention to Yangyang. "You're my best friend. You've dealt with me for years." Yangyang gives Renjun a look. "You've been my side for years?"
Yangyang nods. "Better."
"You've been by my side for years and sometimes, I think you know me better than I know myself. You know why I have a problem before I do and you don't sugarcoat anything with me, which I appreciate because I need the bluntness. But you're also so careful and so caring and you're like that to everybody. I'm happy to be friends with someone else as wonderful as you." Renjun pauses. "Now, you can say yes."
"What makes you think I'm gonna yes?"
"Are you really about to tell me no?" Renjun spots his dog and picks him up so Yangyang can get a view of both of their puppy eyes, one much cuter than the other. "Are you about to tell us no?"
"I am a thousand-percent positive your dog doesn't care but no, I'm not going to tell both of you", Yangyang gives a pointed look to the dog, "no."
Renjun grins. "Perfect."
Sungchan feels his anxiety increase when everyone looks at him, but he's determined to get through this. He focuses on Xiaojun first, finding it the tiniest bit easier. He forces a smile onto his face that does nothing to hide his nerves. "I met you first and though we were closer around that time, you are still just as important to me and I'm so grateful to be your friend. I was a nervous wreck and that didn't scare you off." Xiaojun shakes his head, a small smile on his face. "You just let me and I grew so comfortable with you. You are so amazing and very deserving of being a person's best man. That being said", Sungchan looks at Shotaro, "I ask you to share this honor because I feel the same way with someone else."
Xiaojun looks over at Shotaro. "Do you mind?"
"I don't but we don't have to-"
"Taro", Sungchan says softly. He sits down beside him. "I want you up there as my best man. And you actually are the best. You're so sweet even though, sometimes, you join Renjun in being a menace." Yangyang and Winwin burst out laughing at the jaw-dropped Renjun. "Maybe I didn't do it the best before but I've grown to really appreciate how caring you are and how hard you try to help us when we have a problem. I probably wasn't easy to deal with before."
Shotaro straightens up in protest. "Sungchan-" He quiets when Sungchan gives him a look.
"I want you to know that I'm grateful for your friendship and that you're precious to me. I love you. You too, Xiao."
Xiaojun smiles. "I love you too."
"I love you too."
"Are you gonna follow that up with yes?" Sungchan asks, leaning into Shotaro, looking hopeful.
Shotaro laughs and nods. "Yes."
Sungchan smiles and throws himself onto his friend to hug him. Xiaojun joins, which is then followed by Yangyang and Renjun while Winwin and Hendery just look at them in amusement.
"Hey, get in here!"
➳
"Johnny."
Johnny looks up, immediately getting confused by the serious look on his boyfriends face. "What?"
Jaehyun takes the knife out of his hand and places it on the cutting board so he can hold each of Johnnys hands. "I need to tell you something."
"Should I be scared?"
"I hope what I'm about to say won't scare you."
A nervous smile makes its way onto Johnnys face. "What?"
"I love you."
"What?"
"Johnny, I love you." Jaehyun can only handle a few seconds of silence, so continues speaking. "Like, I really, really love you and I've been wanting to tell you. I wanted to blurt it out every time I've looked at you and I really don't think I can keep this to myself anymore. Well, I told Mark...and Taeyong recently but the point is that I can't keep it from you. You are simply, stunning. And I mean that for everything about you. I also might be a little obsessed with you." Jaehyun finally looks at Johnnys face to gauge his reaction and he's relieved to find his boyfriend smiling at him. Then Johnny laughs at he's not sure what to feel until Johnny takes his face in his hands.
"You're so cute when you ramble, you know that." Jaehyun feels his face heat up. "I love you too." Johnny kisses Jaehyuns nose and then rests their foreheads together. "I really, really love you Jaehyun. Trying to stop felt impossible and we started going on dates and all those feelings I tried to get rid of came back to the surface and over time, they've gotten stronger. I love you with my whole heart. No, actually, I probably love with my soul at this point."
Jaehyun laughs. "This is good then. I was so nervous to tell you."
Johnny sighs. "You're an idiot." The betrayal on Jaehyuns face makes Johnny burst out laughing, which makes it harder for Jaehyun to maintain his expression though he tries.
"Why am I an idiot?"
"Why were you nervous?"
Jaehyun looks down at the tile floor. "I wasn't sure you wanted to hear it."
"That's why you're an idiot. I've been wanting to hear that. It wouldn't bother me. In fact, I'm really happy."
"I love you", Jaehyun blurts, taking Johnny by surprise. Before Johnny can respond, Jaehyun pulls Johnny closer and kisses him. Johnny smiles and wraps his arms around Jaehyuns neck to pull him into an even longer kiss. "You wanna know something?"
"What?"
"I'm pretty sure I adore you with my entire soul."
"You wanna know that means?"
"What?"
Johnny grins. "You're the perfect person for me."
➳
Renjun waits for the music to start before walking over to his daughter and extending a hand. The surprise on Haeun's face makes Renjun laugh. Haeun takes his hand and lets him guide her to the middle of the floor.
"This is a nice surprise", Haeun says quietly.
"I'm glad you like it."
Renjun steps back so he can twirl Haeun. The two dance a little bit longer before Winwin appears and taps Renjun on the shoulder.
"May I?"
Renjun laughs. "You may."
"I hope you're okay with this", Winwin says as he takes Haeuns hands.
"Why wouldn't I be?"
"Just in case you wanna sit down."
Haeun shakes her head. "This is fine." A minute of silence passes them. "I'm really happy I get to be here."
Winwin smiles. "We wouldn't have it any other way."
"What about before? Wasn't Renjun the one most excited for a kid?"
"Renjun did have the most enthusiasm but I was in no way opposed. We had a conversation and I told him I'd support him and our child and that I want every good thing with him." Winwin looks eyes with Haeun. "You are a very good thing and I love you just as much as Renjun does."
Haeun smiles. "I love you too." She lets Winwin pull her into a hug and sees three phones being held up. "Of course they're taking pictures."
"Can never have too many pictures!" Chenle shouts.
After Haeun pulls away, she feels a tap on her shoulder and turns to face Sungchan who has a shy smile on his face. "I hope you don't mind one more dance."
Haeun shakes her head. "I don't mind."
Winwin places a kiss on Haeun's forward and walks away. Sungchan takes Haeun's hands and begins to slowly sway from side to side. After a while, he speaks. "You know you're the reason this is happening."
"I know I gave you all a push but it was all you three that got to this part."
"We wouldn't have gotten anywhere if I didn't have your approval. Even if you were fine with me, you might not've wanted me with your dads. I'm glad you were okay with this."
"I wasn't gonna say no to another parent. I wouldn't have wanted to get in the way either."
Sungchan shakes his head. "You would never. Your comfort is the most important. We're all very happy with this progress but it would've been okay if we had to stay friends too. You are a priority."
Haeun smiles and wraps her arms around Sungchan to give him a tight hug.
"Oh my God, they're so cute", Renjun says, feeling emotional from seeing his husband with their daughter.
"You're gonna make Renjun cry!" Winwin calls out to the two on the dance floor.
"Sorry!" Sungchan and Haeun call back in unison.
The two finish their dance and get rewarded with applause and a tight hug from Renjun. The family walks over to the long buffet table, full of various foods, not only for practicality but because Winwin and Sungchan let Renjun and Haeun be in charge. Renjun is also pretty sure he was as hungry then as he is now so he thanks his past self, even if it wasn't intentional. He serves himself a generous amount of food while also keeping the desserts in mind. As soon as he turns to his table, he waves for other people to get up.
The music stays playing as people out, meaning to serve as an invitation to the dance floor as well as some type of entertainment. Winwin smiles when he hears one of the songs he likes come on.
"We need to dance to it later", Renjun tells him.
"Yes!" Sungchan agrees, excitedly. "Also", he looks at Winwin, "you need to scream to a song with me and Renjun."
"Is that necessary?"
"Yes", Sungchan, Winwin, and Haeun answer.
Winwin gives his daughter a look. "What? It'll be entertaining."
Winwin sighs. "Anything for you three."
"Thank you!"
On the dance floor, Renjun's cousin runs up to him, squealing. "I know I was at the ceremony but I still can't believe it's your wedding. I'm also gonna repeat what I said earlier, you look gorgeous!"
Renjun smiles and pulls her into a hug. "Thank you. You do, as well."
"You know I had to show up looking my best."
"Renjun!"
Renjun turns and gasps at the sight of his friend. He runs into arms. "You're here!"
The woman pulls back and gives him a questioning look. "You didn't think I'd miss your wedding, did you?"
"Well no, but I didn't see you at the ceremony."
"I was there."
"I hid her", Stella says with a smile.
Renjun playfully rolls his eyes but he can't hide his smile. "This is a very nice surprise."
"Of course it is. Okay, now can we talk about this dress?" The woman steps back to take in Renjuns strapless lace plunge heart-neckline bodice that falls into a satin ribbon waistband that separates it from the full, glittery tulle skirt with a short train in the back. "I wish your fashion design instructor could see this." She continues to admire it. "It is beautiful."
"Thank you."
"You still remember our deal, right?"
Renjun laughs and nods. "Make your wedding dress or if that takes too long, still make the dress but for an extravagant birthday party."
"Correct."
"How do you feel?" Haechan asks Winwin.
"I'm really happy. Also, just kinda relieved. Does that make sense?"
Haechan shrugs. "I think so. Mark, Jeno, and Jaemin said they felt the same way. I was just relieved I got my vows over with."
Winwin laughs. "Of course you were."
Jaehyun comes up to them and puts an arm around each of them. "What are we talking about?"
"Just realized Haechan isn't much different than that person who put you, me, and Kun in a support group."
"Is that a bad thing?"
"Let's see, a person who pushed out of their comfort zone to make friends with people who were having a hard time, that same person being caring enough to do weekly check-ins and keep them going even after we got ourselves together, someone many people, me included, have grown to adore. What do you think?"
"I think you should hug me."
Winwin chuckles and brings Haechan into a tight hug, knowing Haechan will fix the hug if he doesn't do it right the first time. After a few seconds, Jaehyun joins the hug, which makes them laugh. More seconds go by and then another force hits them.
"Kun?"
"You can't have a group hug without me."
"That is adorable." Winwin lifts his head to see Xiaojun, Johnny, and Sungchan watching them, all three having their phones out.
"I should've known", Winwin mutters.
Winwin, Sungchan, and Renjun socialize a bit more before going to their parents and picking one to drag to the dance-floor, the dance-floor clearing in the process. While Winwin chose his mom, Sungchan and Renjun chose their dads.
"This wedding suits you", Mr. Huang tells his son.
"What do you mean?"
The man looks up before looking back at Renjun with a smile. "You always were one to branch out."
"I said it first!" Winwin calls.
"Did he really?" Renjun nods. "Winwin, this is your first warning!"
"We're married!"
Winwin's mom smiles at her son in amusement. "Haeun wasn't kidding when she said you're full of dad jokes."
"It's Dads fault."
"I'm not gonna disagree with you."
Too focused on his husbands, Sungchan doesn't realize he's giving his dad a front-view of the smile that always seems to appear where Renjun and Winwin are involved. The only hint is the smile Sungchan is greeted with when he finally brings his attention back to his father. "What?"
"You should see your face right now."
"What's it look like?"
"Someone happy", the man answers. "Someone in love." Sungchan blushes. "I'm very happy, you know. Me and your mom both are."
Sungchan nods. "Thank you." He can tell his dad wants to argue, so he continues. "I know I don't have to thank you but I feel like it. You and mom were so calm when I told you about them. It was freaking me out."
"Do you remember what I said to you?"
"Yeah, you said your only concern was if I was happy and if the relationship was healthy. And that dating my friends was a relief because you already know they're good."
"Exactly. Look how far you got. There's no way in hell we'd let you marry just anybody. Renjun was so funny asking for approval. I've never seen him so timid. And then I scared him from just asking him a question."
"He told me about that. He said he jumped and his heart started going faster."
The man laughs. "He put a hand on his chest and everything."
Each of the parents switch with their partners and Renjun would be lying if he said he wasn't nervous. His mom has her no-nonsense face on and she isn't fully looking at Renjun. The difference is clear with the way Winwin laughs with his dad and Sungchan smiles with his mom.
"I love you", Mrs. Huang says after a minute.
"I love you too, Mom."
"You look gorgeous, honey. I would say I can't believe you made this but you're good at doing the things you set your mind to." That gets Renjun to crack a smile. "You also pull this off very well. I like your nails."
Renjun looks at his squared. white glitter, french-tipped nails and smiles. "Thank you."
"I also want you to know that there's no place I'd rather be than here, at my sons wedding. I see the way you look at Winwin and Sungchan. You love them a lot and they love you. And you'd gotten serious enough to have a child. She is wonderful, by the way."
"She is", Renjun agrees.
"Yangyang told me you're happy but that you'd be happier if you had more of me and your dad. He said we didn't have to do much, we just have to be here. And in your life, closer than we have been, close enough to celebrate these big achievements with you is right where we want to be. I've spent a long time disapproving and I've realized it's gotten me nowhere good. I don't want to be someone you worry about and I shouldn't be someone you can't be yourself around. I birthed you, I should deal with this, shouldn't I?" Renjun giggles, which makes his mom smile. She pulls her son into a tight hug. "I love you so much."
Sungchan and Winwin smile at each other, happy to see their husband getting along with his parents so well. It's not long before the song ends and they're rewarded with loud applause. Winwin's dad ruffles his son's hair while Sungchan and Renjun's moms settle for kissing their sons cheek or forehead instead.
"Why couldn't you have done that?" Winwin complains, trying to fix his hair.
His dad shrugs. "Okay." He gives Winwin a big kiss on his cheek that makes Winwin cringe. "You asked for it."
Winwin sighs. "I know."
➳
True to his word, when a popular song comes on, Winwin lets himself get dragged to the middle of the dance-floor where he "shouts" the lyrics with his husbands while Haeun records. Winwin stays for three songs and then makes an escape. He's relieved to find Jisung sitting alone.
"Hi."
"Hi."
"Where's Chenle and Nina?"
"They left to dance at one point and they haven't been back here since. I think I saw Nina with Jaemin once and Lele is...somewhere. Talking to somebody."
Winwin looks around and spots Chenle laughing with Kun, Xiaojun, and someone else. "He's over there."
"Oh." Jisung brings his attention back to Winwin and smirks. "Having fun?"
"I can always tell Renjun on you."
"Go ahead."
➳
When the sun begins to set, Jaemin rushes around, in search of the grooms, mainly Renjun or Sungchan. He finds both first, so he has no problem in getting Winwin to follow him away from the festivities to an area where the sun is still present, but low.
"This would be so creepy if I didn't know you", Winwin comments, which makes Jaemin and Renjun laugh.
"Well, you do know me and I promise you're safe."
The four stop walking and Winwin looks around in confusion before looking at Renjun again. "Now, will you tell me what we're doing."
"I don't know either."
"Dance with me", Renjun says, taking Winwin's hands and tugging him forward. "While Jaemin takes pictures."
"Pretend I'm not here", Jaemin says and takes out his phone. "Just focus on each other and the music."
Winwin shakes his head but there's a smile threatening to appear on his face. He slowly moves side to side, keeping his gaze locked onto Renjuns face. At some point, his heart begins to beat faster, something that always happens around the two people he loves so much. It's kind of surprising for it to happen now but it's also not surprising at all.
"I want to tell you something", Renjun speaks up, breaking their silence. Winwin hums. "I didn't to say this in front of everyone, I only want you to hear." Winwin nods. "I'm really lucky. I got to have someone as amazing as you fall in love with me and you let me have a chance with you even though I'd hurt you. All this time, you've let me in and let me love you and it's gotten so deep that this is our wedding. I'm also lucky we both fell for the same guy so we didn't have another problem."
Winwin laughs. "Yeah, that would've sucked."
"I know it wasn't super long but that brief time without you really did suck. I tried to distract myself from the fact that I missed you so much and I felt absolutely awful, and I was really scared you wouldn't want anything to do with me." Renjun leans in and rests his head against Winwin's chest. "I'm really happy I never had to see you with someone else. Thank you for letting me be the one to make you happy. Just...thank you for existing. I love you."
Winwin smiles. "I love you too." He pecks Renjun's lips and then steps back and looks over at Sungchan. The shy smile on Sungchan's face makes him look too adorable for Winwin not to kiss him.
"Hi", Renjun says softly when Sungchan gets in front of him.
Sungchan gives him a small smile. "Hi."
The two dance for a little bit before Renjun speaks. "I really love you, you know."
"I love you too."
Renjun takes Sungchans face into his hands, just wanting him close. "You make me so happy. You always have and I'm so lucky I got to date you and that now, I get to be your husband. I'm also really glad you get along with Winwin."
Sungchan laughs. "I think Winwin feels the same way about us."
"He definitely does."
After they're done, Renjun goes over to Jaemin to look over his shoulder at the camera while Winwin and Sungchan dance. The two smile at each other.
"Have I told you, you look pretty yet?" Winwin asks.
"I'm not sure."
"You look pretty." Winwin gently messes with the white rose crown adorning his head. "Flowers look good on you."
"You too."
"Uh huh."
Sungchan giggles and brings Winwin into a hug. "I love you."
Winwin tightens his arms around his husband. "I love you too." He pulls back to peck Sungchans lips and then looks into his eyes. "You're so special to me. It was already good having you in my life and then our relationship changed and it evolved into something even more precious." He kisses Sungchan again. "Thank you."
"I think I should be thanking you."
"You're all thankful and you all love each other, you're welcome!" Haechan calls out to them, now standing by Jaemin, along with Chenle.
Renjun runs over to Haechan and traps in an extremely tight hug. Sungchan and Winwin join and bring their attention to Jaemin's camera so they can see the pictures Jaemin captured of their silhouettes. Sungchan hugs Jaemin as a thank you and the rest of their audience watches in amusement as Jaemin and Winwin awkwardly share their first hug that Chenle, Haechan, and Renjun all take a picture of.
➳
Chenle
I GOT MY MANUSCRIPT
One and Only♥️
AWESOME
WHAT'S THE TITLE
Cutie
Yeah, I think we'd all like to know
Cute boy
It's probably something simple
Baby #2
Is he right?
My Most Fabulous Friend
Lele I love you and I support everything you do except this
Please tell us the title
Kun🤍
He did say he'd probably pick a title that's simple
I don't know what it is though
Baby #1
JISUNG MAKE NINA ASK HE CAN'T SAY NO TO HER
Chenle
OKAY OKAY
It's called...
....
Cute boy
JISUNG HURRY UP
Chenle
Okay
It's called...
Love Me
That's right, my name isn't Zilie, it is actually Chenle. Chenle Zhong to be exact
This is the longest chapter I have and it was a journey and a half. I got ready to write the wedding so many times and I even tried skipping scenes and just ended up taking that part out. I had to rearrange something and take something else out. I also wanted to fit in that last JohnJae scene and it was already a lot of words at with the chapter halfway done
Of course I made a collage
I also need to point that the dress I envision for Renjun either doesn't exist or I don't know the correct words and where to find what I'm looking for so we're going to use our imaginations with this guide. Pretend there is a while satin ribbon waistband. I didn't even try adding that in, I already went through at least one hundred wedding dress pictures
This is everything else he was wearing
Sungchan wore this
And Winwin wore this
I
don't even want these words but I'm gonna have to
This is *deep breath* the end. I know this has to end at some point and it's already like a million chapters long but somehow I still wasn't ready. I'm still not ready. It's been like two minutes
I quite literally don't know how to proceed. Um...
Thank you to DestinysJihan for being my Nina :)
Thank you to Cherrie_as_Cherry for being my Ana :)
Thank you to americanowith8shots for being my Minjae :)
Thank you to aegyo21_bts for being my Affinity :)
Thank you to pringledbackup for being my Haeun :)
And thank you to irlylikehaechan for being my Alya :)
I tried to do those in order of how your characters appeared in the story but it's probably wrong
So we can all continue on in peace, I will say that everyone gets a happy ending. If you wanna know anything specific, just ask🥰
A big thank you to everyone. I started writing this for myself and it was nice seeing that other people were interested in it. You're all very precious and I love you. Mwah!
Have a good morning/day/or night!
(No, it's not proofread❤️)