Title: The Universe of Us (Part 1)
Paring: Chanyeol/Baekhyun
Side Pairings: Jongin/Kyungsoo, Sehun/Luhan
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Hybrid!au, Office!au, Romance, Comedy, Angst
Word count: 13.3k words
Summary: Baekhyun is Chanyeol's independent Corgi hybrid* who works as his Secretary. But as his owner, Chanyeol hopes that someday, Baekhyun will come to rely on him more.
(*Hybrid - half-human, half-animal)
*
"Hm, which one should I wear today?"
Chanyeol hums to himself as he pulls out his organized watch drawer filled with various brands of watches he personally likes. He grazes his thumb along the smoothness of the oak furniture while still debating which one from his extensive collection should he use today. Should he wear the Montblanc that Baekhyun picked for him last year for his birthday, or should he put on the Cartier which he received from Jongin as a token of appreciation?
Either way, he still can't decide selecting as though it's a trivial matter like his life greatly depends on it. This is already taking him an eternity so maybe it'll be best to call Baekhyun. Baekhyun is basically the expert when it comes to stuff like this, and probably the best in literally everything he does.
"Baekhyun! Come here for a second!"
Baekhyun is just none other than Chanyeol's competent Pembroke Welsh Corgi hybrid, which happens to be also his Personal Assistant, Secretary, Legal Advisor, housekeeper, butler, driver, stylist, chef, and pet. You name it. Baekhyun knows Chanyeol more than he knows himself, considering that the smart corgi hybrid has been working and living with him for over five years now. Chanyeol can't basically function without him.
"He must be still sleeping so I think I'll just wear this one."
Today is an important meeting with the rich investors from SUHO Industries, and as the Chief Executive Officer of Park & B Holdings Company, Chanyeol has to maintain a presentable aura, so a watch is definitely a must. He isn't actually sure if the design of the necktie he wore is appropriate with today's appointment; he has quite a weak fashion sense (which Baekhyun always quotes) that he doesn't want to openly admit.
"You're seriously going to wear that?"
Chanyeol, while in the process of buttoning the sleeve on his wrist, peers over his shoulder towards the honey voice. Baekhyun makes a clicking sound of his tongue as he enters the spacious wardrobe.
"What about it?"
"You're really tacky."
"Excuse me? Isn't it a little too early for your insult?"
Baekhyun sighs, "Let me get that for you."
Chanyeol notes how Baekhyun's perky caramel ears flop above his silver fluffy hair as Baekhyun walks towards him. The gold collar worn around Baekhyun's neck stands out against his pure white skin, and Chanyeol feels satisfied of it. Observing the hybrid, a little smile slips his mouth when Baekhyun quietly takes his left hand, carefully removing the flashy Rolex Pearlmaster he took one decade to choose.
"Baekhyun."
"Hm?"
"Did you sleep well last night?"
"Yes," Baekhyun answers. "How about you?"
"Me, too. Thanks to the book you suggested me to read."
The sunlight streaking through the cream satin curtains of the room is warm, and Chanyeol likes it. He is fond of the comfortable silence that lingers between them as they stand face-to-face and a hairsbreadth away. Baekhyun smells a combination of vanilla, cherry blossoms, coffee, and home, and Chanyeol will always find himself contented to waking up every morning to this familiarity. A familiarity that is Baekhyun who is a friend and a family he never had.
"How was it? The book, I mean."
"It was good, well-written. Inspirational even."
Chanyeol watches how the summer breeze coming from the window gently brushes Baekhyun's fringe, revealing his cute wrinkling forehead. Since when did his hybrid become so grown-up and mature like this? It only feels as if it were just yesterday when he first saw a small abandoned Baekhyun back at the shelter. He took him home, fed him, clothed him, pampered him, and made him to what he is now.
It was give-and-take. He gave Baekhyun a chance to a good life, while Baekhyun served him and kept him company.
"Rolex Submariner has a simple yet classy feel perfect for a formal business setting. You don't wanna appear unnecessary luxurious by showcasing an accessory that stands out too much, do you?" Baekhyun says, now equipping the stylish silver stainless watch on Chanyeol's wrist. He locks it and smiles. "There."
"Thanks," Chanyeol beams at himself on the full-body length mirror in front of him. "Now I'm all set."
"Wait," Baekhyun crinkles his forehead, narrowing his eyes at Chanyeol's over-all handsome appearance: nicely styled push-back hair, sleek black coat, and a burgundy red necktie with white polka dots. Chanyeol looks already perfect sans the last part. "Let me change your necktie. Red is a bit..."
"What's wrong with red? It's your favorite color," Chanyeol teases, allowing Baekhyun to replace his tie with a simple striped navy-blue one. He chuckles at the hybrid's reaction of disagreement towards his comment. "You obviously love it when you see me in red, right?"
Baekhyun audibly clears his throat and suppresses a blush to show upon his cheeks.
"No, I don't, and I'm a hundred percent sure that you have zero sense in color combination let alone fashion in general, Master."
"Don't call me Master. It hurts my feelings," Chanyeol mutters and fakes sadness, adoring how Baekhyun properly laces and smooths his new necktie on his chest before giving his shoulder a light pat.
"You know I only call you that to tease you," Baekhyun steps back and grins. "Breakfast's ready. I'll wait for you downstairs so make it quick. I'm gonna drive you to the company before I go grocery shopping."
"How about my schedule for today--"
"I've already updated it on your phone while you were taking a shower."
"And that finest wine that Mr. Junmyeon has requested---"
"1947 Château Smith Haut Lafitte Rouge. Yes. Nicely gift-wrapped and already prepared at the backseat of your car."
Raising his index finger, Chanyeol parts his mouth in attempt to say something more, but Baekhyun giving him a smug look only has him falling silent. He zips his mouth and nods. "Right." He flashes the hybrid a two thumbs up, "You're the best."
Baekhyun chuckles, "Thanks. I'll accept that humble compliment."
"C'mere You deserve a good pat on the head," Chanyeol gestures his fingers to usher Baekhyun closer to him. He is completely aware that Baekhyun isn't fond of any form of physical contact unlike other hybrids, but that is just Baekhyun's exceptional nature. Sehun even told him once that Baekhyun must be a cat in his past life.
Nevertheless, Chanyeol deems it's not bad to push his luck today, right? Baekhyun looks like he's down for a little scratch based on how the tips of his pink ears are slightly twitching.
"Come on, Baekhyun. I'm waiting."
Baekhyun averts his sight, yet he is hesitantly stepping towards his owner anyway and before he knows it, Chanyeol's hand is already rubbing his head tenderly. He slowly closes his eyes and subtly leans into the warm touch while the human flicks his fingers on the underside flap of his ear, scratching it. There is no day that Chanyeol forgets to do this to him ever since they met years ago, and there is also no day that Baekhyun hasn't felt the familiar churn in his stomach and the warm coil in his chest everytime Chanyeol pets him. He's confident to say that he's been immune to Chanyeol's affectionate gestures now. That's a good thing, he believes. He's been always able to maintain a straight expression in front of Chanyeol. He shouldn't falter and let his guards down. It's not yet the right time; he's still scared and he's not yet ready to totally open up his heart.
"Looks like I'm the only one who's enjoying this again," Chanyeol laughs awkwardly and withdraws his hand afterwards, hiding it behind him. He gives Baekhyun's hair a final caress before he leaves. "Guess I'm just gonna try again tomorrow."
Watching his owner's broad back, Baekhyun can't help secretly hiding the growing smile on his lips. He just hopes Chanyeol didn't notice how tensed he was this time.
"Chanyeol, don't forget to bring with you the red folder on top of the coffee table!"
"Fine. I know that already!"
-
It hasn't been even three hours yet since he and Chanyeol parted ways, and Baekhyun is already driving back to their house in a rush. He's certain there are broken eggs and spilled milk in the trunk caused by him harshly shoving the bags of groceries he bought, after receiving Chanyeol's urgent message. But he'll deal with the mess later. Sometimes though, he assumes that Chanyeol is maybe purposely forgetting stuff at home so he can take him for granted knowing he'll drop anything when it comes to him.
That's just a harmless assumption. He knows his owner would never do that. Chanyeol is just an idiot sometimes, and despite of that, he still loves him very much.
"Shit! I told him not to forget it!" Baekhyun swerves the stirring wheel and steps on the breaks, driving with utmost speed heading to his owner's company. He got the files with him for Chanyeol's presentation and he must deliver it to him on time, which is exactly eleven minutes from now. Of course, no matter how much he's in a hurry, he still manages to follow traffic rules. He's the best driver out there, as Chanyeol would always say.
His phone beeps a message notification.
Baekhyun, I'm sorry but can you please hurry up? I'm the next one to present and I need the contract now.
"Crap! Come on! Green light!"
This is partly his fault anyway and Baekhyun blames himself for that. If only he didn't get distracted this morning, he could've been able to double-check his owner's belongings before the man left for work. If only he didn't take a detour from his normal daily routine and allowed Chanyeol to pet him once again after breakfast, then his owner wouldn't have to be troubled like this. Though Chanyeol won't reprimand him for anything, it's just his disposition to be prim and proper, and almost close to being perfect. After all, he's Chanyeol's independent pet hybrid and he owes the human his life, so the last thing he wants is Chanyeol getting upset or angry over him. He should make this task a success before that actually happens.
Reaching the fourteenth floor and one minute before the elevator opens, Baekhyun makes it on time to Chanyeol's office after a literally breathtaking race. Though Corgi hybrids tend to be slow because of the extra plumpness to their butts, Baekhyun himself is clearly an exception. He regularly works out at the gym and strictly trains himself cardiovascular exercises, enough for him to become the fastest runner for the upcoming Hybrid Olympics.
His heart still ringing wildly inside his ears as he furiously catches for his breath, Baekhyun hands the file to Luhan, one of Chanyeol's staffs who is also a hybrid like him. Muttering a thanks, the Siberian cat hybrid offers him a quick smile before he disappears to the conference hall, his long tail flipping elegantly.
"My day-off became not actually a day-off," Baekhyun mutters to himself, sighing and wiping his sweat with the back of his hand. He takes a seat on the couch at the lobby and says hi to several humans and hybrid employees who recognized him right away. He sees Jongin, the company Vice President and also Chanyeol's friend, waving at him in the middle of his conversation with a client.
"What are you doing here? It's your first break in like, six months, right?"
As expected of Kyungsoo, he really knows how to make the most perfect coffee suitable to Baekhyun's taste. Baekhyun puts down the cup after taking a sip of his drink, allowing the Toy Poodle hybrid to sit beside him. Maybe Jongin won't notice his Secretary slacking off a bit since he's busy entertaining clients, or if he does notice, Baekhyun knows Jongin would probably let Kyungsoo off the hook. His friend right here is just lucky to have a higher-up lover.
"I had to bring an important file to Chanyeol that's why I'm here. You know how he's really forgetful sometimes."
"But how about that straight sixteen hours of sleep your promised yourself, huh?" Kyungsoo dramatically lifts an eyebrow, flipping his hand in the air and making Baekhyun laugh, "If only Chanyeol wasn't my boss, I already smacked him on the head and tore off his clothes with my teeth! He's been mistreating you, Baekhyun!"
"Well, I guess that reward to myself can wait," Baekhyun shrugs, "And I like my job." He smiles brighter. "And I love serving my owner."
"You mean you love Chanyeol."
Baekhyun heartily laughs, "Don't we all hybrids feel the same way towards our owners? Our existence is only for their sake, to make them the happiest human on earth."
Kyungsoo nods, "You have a point. Though I can't actually relate on a spiritual level because you know how Jongin is like to me," he chuckles evilly, "He treats me like I'm his queen. I'm living a royalty life at home and he practically serves me with everything including the hot stuff." He smirks. "If you know what I mean."
Baekhyun flashes him a horrified look. Kyungsoo is indeed a naughty pup, "I can see that you just got your fur groomed? It looks extra cuter and fluffier today."
"I know, right?" Kyungsoo touches his smooth and soft fur, "It was home service. I got it done yesterday and Jongin paid for it."
"And did you just change your collar strap again? It was blue yesterday and now it's pink."
"Oh, this? I like to try something different everyday! Besides, Jongin told me I look good in every color. Let's go shopping for new straps when you're free."
"Maybe next time," Baekhyun stands up to indicate he's leaving, causing Kyungsoo to frown, "I still have to fix the groceries in the car and clean the house before Chanyeol comes home tonight. See you tomorrow, Kyungsoo."
"Aren't you gonna see Chanyeol for a bit? I think he'll be done with the meeting in a few minutes."
"Nah, I'll just see him at home."
"Okay, then. Make sure to relax after your chores, alright!?"
"Okay, bye!"
"See you tomorrow in the office, Baekhyun!"
Washing his hands after using the toilet, Baekhyun looks at himself at the mirror of the company's empty bathroom. His always straightened back crouches as he releases a deep sigh while staring at his haggard reflection. The gold collar worn around his neck saves him from looking more stressed out.
"Since when did I get so old like this..."
Remembering he has a small comb and a chapstick in his wallet, Baekhyun takes them out and grooms himself a little. He gently licks his hand and pats his hair to flatten his fringe that has managed to stick out. Doing that, he suddenly freezes at the memory of Chanyeol affectionately rubbing his ears this morning, resulting him a thumping heart and flushed cheeks.
He breathes and slaps his burning face.
"Stop thinking about him!"
"Stop thinking about whom?"
Baekhyun instantly jolts at the voice behind him, his eyes widening. "Shit!"
Chanyeol quickly pulls Baekhyun close to his chest so that the hybrid won't lose his balance. He holds Baekhyun's small trembling shoulders before he turns his body around so that they can face each other. He lets out the brightest and best smile he can ever muster, unaware of its huge impact to Baekhyun's emotional stability.
"Y-y-you scared me!"
"You didn't see me walk in?" Chanyeol asks, "I told you I was done with the meeting and you smiled at me at the mirror. I thought you heard me."
"Now I heard you, so will you please..."
"Hm? Please what?"
"Please let me go. What if someone walks in and," Baekhyun mumbles, clearing his throat while doing minimal effort to struggle within his owner's confines. He prevents his Corgi tail to wiggle inside his pants as he sucks a deep calm breath. Chanyeol is standing too close, holding him as though he is about to hug him inside his arms.
"What if I don't wanna let go of you?" Chanyeol smirks teasingly, purposely leaning his face closer that Baekhyun has to back away for his own good, "Will you do something about it?"
One thing that Baekhyun hates the most about Chanyeol is that, he always makes him fall harder for him every single day.
"Ouch!" Chanyeol yells, holding his kicked shin as he skips in pain. "You don't have to resort to violence, you know!" He glares at Baekhyun who is now dusting his clothes and fixing himself, totally ignoring him as though he didn't just injure someone. Chanyeol hisses. "Tch. So cold."
"I have to go now, Mr. Park. Stop acting like a child and return to your office like a proper adult."
"Wait, allow me to thank you first," Chanyeol properly stands up, smiling at his pet Corgi hybrid. "You saved my ass back there again. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be able to close the deal with Mr. Kim." His hands land on Baekhyun's shoulders, giving them a light squeeze. "Thank you for always being there for me, Baekhyun. I'm so grateful to have you in my life. I don't think I can live without you anymore by my side."
Baekhyun purses his lips into a thin line, closing his eyes shut before opening them again after stabilizing his raging nerves. He offers Chanyeol a tight-lipped smile when he recovers.
"Of course, that's my job and my reason to live. To serve my owner at all cost."
"As expected of my lovely Baekhyun," Chanyeol whispers, decreasing the gaps in between their bodies through a warm embrace. He encloses the hybrid inside his arms and hugs him softly, soothing his hair with his hand. He feels Baekhyun uncomfortably tensing within his touch, but he refuses to pull away. He hugs Baekhyun even tighter, safer, never letting him go.
"It's been years but I'm still waiting for the time for you to completely warm up to me. Just like how I depend on you, I hope that someday, you will come to rely on me, too."
It's always like this. When Chanyeol says something, Baekhyun's heart starts to waver. Tears are threatening to fall from this eyes that Baekhyun struggles to keep at bay. He doesn't say anything as his words suspend in his throat, afraid he will spill every single emotion he's been bottling up inside of him. He doesn't want Chanyeol to know. He should stay strong no matter what. He doesn't want to take risks and experience again what happened before when he was still a defenseless and weak hybrid. It's all in the past now and he must be strong to move on.
"What have you been through to become like this? It must've been hard for you. It also hurts me thinking about how your life had become before I met you."
Baekhyun sighs, "Chanyeol..."
"Baekhyun, you can lower your guards when you're around me." Chanyeol leans away from the hug and stares at Baekhyun's wary quivering eyes. He presses a delicate kiss on the pet's forehead that has Baekhyun clenching his fists by his sides. "I won't leave you and I won't do anything to harm you. I promise you that." He cups Baekhyun's pouty face inside his large hands, using his thumbs to squish those chubby rosy cheeks, "Okay?"
Maybe this is enough for now. Baekhyun feels kind of tired and he doesn't want to keep being tough all day. Tomorrow, definitely tomorrow, he'll go back to his normal self. He blinks up to Chanyeol and nods silently as an answer.
"I can't hear you. Use your words, Baekhyun."
"Mkay. Awl tway," Baekhyun nods again and mumbles his reply through the process of Chanyeol literally massaging his face. He coughs so that his owner would finally release him. "What I mean is. Okay, I'll try..."
"Great! That's good news," Chanyeol grins, feeling proud of himself for making a progress. "And since it's your day-off, I've decided to leave work early so that I can spend the rest of the day with you. Tell me. What do you wanna do? Do you wanna eat out or buy something for yourself? Is there any place you wanna go?"
"I... I want to go home," Baekhyun mumbles sheepishly, "And I want to take a nap."
"You want to nap?"
"Yes."
"And after that?"
"After that... I want you to just stay close so your scent won't rub off from me..."
Chanyeol sweetly smiles, and tenderly pats Baekhyun's hair.
"Okay, then. Let's do that."
It's comfortingly quiet on their way back home; Chanyeol is driving meanwhile Baekhyun is occupying the passenger's seat. Baekhyun's hands never leave the seatbelt on his chest, fumbling it just to keep him busy, just like how Chanyeol is busy glancing at him on the rear-view mirror. Chanyeol can't help internally cooing at his adorable pet especially when Baekhyun's ears twitch at the slightest noise of the vehicles, and when Baekhyun's nose crinkle at the subtlest scent in the air. He badly wants to reach out his hand to Baekhyun and pet him again, if not for the stirring wheel he is driving right now.
Baekhyun catches him at the mirror staring, so as a normal human being that he is, Chanyeol stares harder and beams.
Baekhyun averts his eyes and looks down at his lap instead, his face warming up.
"I'll first put these groceries away, then I'll cook for the both of us. It has been a long time since Chef Park showed his skills," Chanyeol chuckles, making a beeline to the kitchen as soon as they both enter the house. Padding into the living room, he puts his coat on the backrest of the sofa to where Baekhyun is finally sitting comfortably. For more comfort in cooking, he rolls his sleeves up to his elbows and releases the first two buttons of his shirt.
"Baekhyun, what do you wanna have for lunch? Is seafood pasta okay? Or do you want something heavier like rice and roasted chicken with vegetables?" Chanyeol hollers from the vast kitchen and makes use of his hands maneuvering pans and pots, opening the fridge, cabinets and cupboards, and preparing ingredients. He doesn't wait for a reply as he starts cooking whatever he can make do. "You'll surely love anything I cook for you anyway."
Several minutes of effortless cooking and the food is finally done. Chanyeol tastes it and hums in satisfaction, serving the delicious meal in two plates. He also tops it off with a red wine for a perfect ambiance. Preparing the table utensils, he peeks at Baekhyun in the living room to call the hybrid.
"Baekhyun! Food's ready!"
No answer.
"Baekhyun! Come here and join me!"
Receiving zero response after three attempts of calling Baekhyun, Chanyeol deems to check up on his pet at the sofa to where he left him, only to find the Corgi hybrid fallen asleep while curled into a ball. Chanyeol's mouth parts to wake him, but he stops himself upon seeing Baekhyun's adorable sleeping state: Baekhyun has the coat wrapped around his upper body like a protective suit to keep him warm and secured.
"You fell asleep already? You must be really tired."
Chanyeol is about to sneak the coat away from Baekhyun's hold, yet the pet makes a growling sound of disapproval, holding on to Chanyeol's coat tighter so that no one can take it away from him even in his sleep. Baekhyun buries his nose into Chanyeol's familiar scent as he delves into a peaceful slumber.
Smiling to himself, Chanyeol lowers down and scoops the sleeping male as careful as possible not to wake him up. He carries Baekhyun bridal style while he heads upstairs to the hybrid's bedroom. Gazing down at him, he realizes that Baekhyun appears so small in his arms after all, compared to how he thought Baekhyun would look like. How long has it been since he carried Baekhyun like this? Baekhyun feels too light and thin. Is he barely getting enough nutrition? Does working for him twenty-four seven wears Baekhyun out to the core?
A pang of guilt crawls inside Chanyeol's chest, and maybe it's his fault for not giving Baekhyun too much of his attention. Why did he notice just now that despite Baekhyun's independent personality, his pet still looks so fragile and vulnerable? Has he been neglecting him for years? After he is his owner, he is also Baekhyun's guardian, so it's his entire responsibility to take care of Baekhyun, offering the hybrid the best treatment one could ever receive. And perhaps he failed to do that. It's his biggest shortcoming.
Placing Baekhyun gently on the bed, Chanyeol fixes the blanket up to his chest, still letting Baekhyun have the coat for himself. Baekhyun won't let go of it no matter how Chanyeol tries to retrieve it, so he deems it'll be just fine if his pet sleeps with the coat worn securely around his body.
"I'm sorry, Baekhyun... I'm so sorry for my shortcomings... Let me look after you from now on," Chanyeol whispers, gently threading his fingers through Baekhyun's white hair while fondly watching him sleep. He slowly leans down and plants a chaste kiss on his pet's forehead, smiling when Baekhyun's ear involuntary twitches as a response. He also encloses the hybrid's small hand inside his palm, thumbing the curves of his frail knuckles, before finally pressing his lips on them for a sweet kiss.
"Sleep well, love. Dream of beautiful things."
*
The next morning Baekhyun wakes up, he feels exceptionally different.
It's not that kind of bad different, but a good different, rising up with the sun in his rejuvenated body and battery full. Stretching his arms after rubbing his eyes, he notices Chanyeol's coat draped over his chest, causing a little smile to form on his mouth. He takes it in his arms and sniffs on the fabric, frowning at the disappearing and faint scent it emits. Chanyeol must've already gone to work so his warm scent no longer lingers on the coat he wore yesterday.
Work. Right! Baekhyun almost forgot about work!
Hastily getting off his bed, Baekhyun stumbles over his own feet as he curses himself for not getting up early. What the hell? How could he overslept? Why didn't Chanyeol call for him anyway? He's already late for like, he looks at the wallclock, two hours!
"Aaaahhhhh! I'm screwed!"
Running here and there, and going back and forth across his room, Baekhyun clumsily grabs a change of clothes, his toothbrush, his phone, and the car keys, all at the same time. He's literally going haywire; he doesn't know if he's gonna get mad at himself or pissed off at his owner for not giving a damn about him oversleeping. Chanyeol must've purposely done it so he could rest for another goddamned day. That cunning bastard!
Three knocks on the door, and Baekhyun startles, tripping on the rug on the floor.
"Shit, that hurt!" Baekhyun hisses, hurting his Corgi butt. He massages it and rubs it in circles.
Looking for a nearest something to grab for support so he can get up, a sudden painful throb in his blood wakes up his system. His eyes widen and his heart begins to pulsate. He claws on the floor, sensing his heart rate increase.
"Baekhyun? Are you awake now?"
The throbbing inside his veins intensifies, and Baekhyun finds himself disoriented as he pants heavily, feeling his chest constrict. Beads of sweat start to trickle down his temples when he feels his body temperature rising up. While the immense heat creeps down his lower half, he immediately struggles to get up. He runs to the bathroom and scrambles with the medicine cabinet in search for his suppressant.
It's already that time of the month, and he can't believe it slipped his mind. He blames himself for not properly keeping track of his heat. How could he miss an important schedule? What the hell is happening to him!?
"Where is it... Where's my pills!?"
Hands shaking as he finds his medicine, he quickly pours the content of the bottle on his palm. There's only one pill left, and it's barely enough to get through his cycle. He takes it anyway and swallows the pill, looking at his disheveled state on the mirror. His eyes are puffy and his face is feverishly red. He can also sense that his butt is starting to slick and it's not a good sign. Not when he didn't take enough pills, and especially not when Chanyeol is around.
"I-I need more dosage," Baekhyun mutters in panic, and then his unfocused eyes trail at the door to where Chanyeol's worried voice is coming from.
"Baekhyun?" Chanyeol's knocks are getting louder. "Are you okay? Baekhyun, answer me!" He pounds on the door. "Open the door, can you hear me?"
Baekhyun squeezes his eyes shut, furiously shaking his head. No. He shouldn't. He can't involve Chanyeol in his own problem. He can never be a bother nor an inconvenience to his owner. Not now, and not ever.
"Baekhyun, is something the matter? Talk to me, please?!"
Baekhyun tries to go back to his bed to just sleep his heat cycle off, but he unfortunately falls again on the floor with a thud. He angrily throws away the rug scattered on the ground and silently whines in pain.
"W-what's happening right now!? I'm getting worried!" Chanyeol calls while still slamming the door with his hand. "Baekhyun! I'm getting the key to your room! I'm coming in!"
"N-NO!!!" Baekhyun firmly refuses. Chanyeol's scent is getting stronger and it's making him dizzy. "DON'T COME IN!"
"Why? Just tell me what's wrong and I'll help you!"
"I don't need your help!"
Chanyeol freezes, and stares at the door with hurt evident in his eyes.
"I don't want you to see me like this! So please, just leave me alone!"
"But Baekhyun!"
"I SAID, LEAVE ME ALONE!"
Silence falls.
Baekhyun keenly listens on the other side of the room as it turns dead quiet. When there are no signs of noise and movement of Chanyeol being still outside, he relaxes at last, but that doesn't lighten up the weight in his chest even for a bit. He all the more feels terrible and pained after yelling at his owner in that manner. He is guilty but what can he do, that's the only option he can choose to deal with this matter by himself.
Sneaking back to the bed, Baekhyun slips his shivering body under the sheets and desperately clutches on Chanyeol's coat, putting it close to his nose. He grits his teeth as he whimpers, stifling the big sobs to come out of his lips while he relieves himself through the material. He feels utterly disgusted and embarrassed with himself, but he has no choice but to resort in this kind of way so he can temporarily feel a tad better without the pills. He bears with the process, struggling furiously with his hand buried inside his pants, while muffled groans and choked cries fill the entire room.
He thinks of Chanyeol, clouding his thoughts with nothing but Chanyeol.
And then he comes.
Baekhyun grimaces at the sticky mess on his whole palm after getting off to his owner's clothes. Although he resents himself for doing such lowly act, he admits it at least eased the pain he is suffering from. He right away takes a bath to freshen up, praying to the heavens and hoping that Chanyeol didn't hear him moan and whine like a female dog in heat. It'd be too shameful he could die if Chanyeol did.
After the refreshing shower, Baekhyun deems he's now back to his sanity. He puts on comfy clothes, texts Luhan and Kyungsoo that he'll be taking another leave from work for today, before he cleans up the chaos he made in his room. His co-workers slash friends will automatically understand his cycles anyway, so he has nothing to worry about except for the job he left at the company.
And well, except for Chanyeol.
Baekhyun has no idea if Chanyeol is aware about his heat cycles or not, and it's better if Chanyeol won't know. They never talk about heats, just like how girls not often discuss their menstrual period to their parents. It's already silently understood between them, and as for Baekhyun, he strictly keeps his heat schedules personal, just like how he deals with it in private. He religiously resorts his heat through medicine ever since his first estrus, and he's just okay and normally functioning. He's not like other hybrids who takes care of their heats through self-pleasure and intercourse with humans or any other hybrids. He has no one to spend his heat anyway, and he's not one to recklessly sleep with somebody just so he can satisfy his needs.
"Let me just fix this first."
Still feeling totally dreadful and embarrassed, Baekhyun goes to the bathtub and thoroughly washes Chanyeol's coat, not leaving any single trace of himself on it. He hangs it dry and carefully irons it afterwards like brand new.
"I should buy my pills when Chanyeol leaves the house," Baekhyun tells himself in determination, "I'll wait for the sound of the car, then I'll make a quick run to the pharmacy. Right. I'll do that."
Several agonizing minutes have passed which turned into hours, Baekhyun finally hears the revving engine of Chanyeol's car. He peeks outside the window of his room, seeing the car drive off. Although he feels empty for being far away from his owner, Baekhyun still sighs in relief when he doesn't spot Chanyeol as soon as he gets out of his room. He sniffs everywhere just to be certain, and he then assures himself that the man is already gone after not smelling Chanyeol's scent around the house. He's not happy about his human's absence; it's just, it'll be too uncomfortable to face him right now. It's better if Chanyeol is not around before he takes his heat suppressants.
Grabbing his wallet so he can now proceed to the pharmacy to get this over with, Baekhyun makes a full stop upon seeing the living room.
There on the carpet, lie piles of hundred of white boxes of what he presumes to be medicine. Sitting on the couch while still in a daze, Baekhyun opens one box of a familiar drug company he knows, seeing a dozen of bottles inside it. He takes it, reading the label and immediately realizing it's the same suppressant he uses for his heat.
Baekhyun, I don't know which one you use so I bought every available brand in the pharmacy. I hope this helps.
I'll be gone for a while until you're better so please, don't hate me... I'm so sorry for being a bother...
- Chanyeol
Baekhyun feels a painful clench in his heart that is uncalled for after reading the note Chanyeol wrote on the table. Guilt flows in him as he glances around the living room filled with medicines. His eyes start to water, droplets of tears soaking the yellow sticky note in his hand. He shouldn't be crying like this but he couldn't help it. Why does Chanyeol have to care for him this much? What does he have for him to deserve Chanyeol?
"Idiot," Baekhyun balls his fist, pounding it on his chest furiously. Letting his sobs escape his mouth while he punches himself, he hugs his knees and cries, "Y-you're an idiot, Baekhyun..."
-
A scowl shows on Kyungsoo's face upon opening the gate of their house and seeing someone familiar. Chanyeol's awkward smiling let alone his mere presence doesn't even make him happy. He almost barks at the human if not for Jongin appearing behind him and wrapping his arms around his waist for a backhug.
"Is it the pizza guy?"
"No, babe. It's the boss," Kyungsoo narrows his eyes, letting his boyfriend put his chin on top of his head so he can see their surprise visitor. "I mean, it's your idiot friend."
Jongin untangles himself from Kyungsoo. Smiling, he turns to the tall male outside who looks like he's being chased by the police.
"Hey, Chanyeol. What brings you here?"
"Hi," Chanyeol giggles and waves his fingers. Kyungsoo howls at him like a wolf but he ignores it; he already knows how Jongin's pet despises him so much.
"Uhm, you see... I'm here to ask you a favor. Can I crash at your place tonight?" Chanyeol steps closer, whispering. "There's like, a small problem at home and it's kind of, well, inappropriate for me to stay there at the moment."
"What? No. You can't," Kyungsoo interferes, shaking his head and glaring at Chanyeol menacingly, "This mansion is too cramped for the three of us. You should just stay at a hotel or something. There's no space for you here."
Chanyeol glances at Jongin's literally palace of a house. "Right." He coughs and turns to the younger. "Jongin, please? Let me sleep here just for one night! I promise I won't bother you two. A hotel is just too lonely for me!"
"What do you mean by it's inappropriate for you to stay at home? Care to elaborate?" Jongin asks. He allows his pet to cling possessively around him while interrogating Chanyeol. "Did something happen between you and Baekhyun?"
"Did you hurt my friend!?" Kyungsoo banters.
"No, I didn't!" Chanyeol denies. "It's just... Well, this morning, he refused to see me and he told me to go away. I think he's suffering from his heat, so I left him at home with medicines and--"
"WHAT!?" Kyungsoo and Jongin both shout in unison. "HE'S IN HEAT AND YOU LEFT HIM ALONE!?"
Chanyeol rubs his nape, stepping back. "Yeah..."
"You're supposed to take care of Baekhyun, not leave him alone by himself!" Jongin punches Chanyeol's arm, "You're really dumb, aren't you? Go home now!"
"I-I didn't know what to do, I mean, he told me to leave and I didn't wanna be a bother so I just left," Chanyeol recites his excuses, "If what I did was bad for him, then I guess I'll just head back home to take care of Baekhyun..."
"Yeah, you should! A pet with the absence of his owner by his side, especially during heats, will experience extreme loneliness that can lead to depression," Jongin explains, clicking his tongue at Chanyeol looking so dumbfounded and surprised. "You didn't even know that? Figures. Baekhyun won't tell you anyway because you won't be the least reliable."
That hurts. But Chanyeol still swallows the sting of those words.
"What kind of owner are you, even? You've been really clueless all these years," Kyungsoo sighs helplessly, shaking his head, "I wonder how our poor Baekhyun put up with you. Baekhyun may look like he's really strong on the outside, but he's still a small and weak pup. He needs the tender loving care of his human."
"And it's your job as his owner to look after his needs. You won't even give him enough attention. You're busy with work and you always take him for granted," Jongin mutters, massaging his hurting temples, and making Chanyeol silent because all of what he's saying is true, "And you what? You left him with medicine? How long has it been like that anyway? Do you have any idea?"
"No, I--" Chanyeol shakes his head slowly, "I don't have any idea..."
"Oh my god, worst owner ever!" Kyungsoo chants out loud for Chanyeol to hear, "Good thing Nini here treats me really well." He side-hugs Jongin and kisses his cheek, "I love you, baby."
"Love you, too," Jongin chuckles, not minding Chanyeol in front of them being problematic as hell. "Now, can you prepare our bath? I'll just talk to Chanyeol for a bit then I'll join you."
"Alright, babe," Kyungsoo laughs, not forgetting to naughtily squeeze Jongin's firm-as-an-apple butt before he leaves, "Don't take too long!"
"Damn, he's really naughty sometimes," Jongin blushes, but he immediately puts on a serious face now that he's alone with Chanyeol. He clears his throat and pats the older's shoulder. "Anyway. You should head back now, hyung. Don't make Baekhyun wait for too long."
"Is it... Is it okay if he sees me? Won't he get mad?"
"Of course, not. I know he didn't mean to shut you out. Maybe he was just, you know, taken aback that you started concerning yourself over him. He is used to handle things by himself anyway."
"I'm really terrible, aren't I?"
"Yeah, you are. So leave now before it's too late. Baekhyun's waiting for you."
-
The unsettling feeling inside Baekhyun's chest won't still go away after cleaning the entire house, making sure each stuff is proper, well-organized, and balanced. He has fixed whatever it is that is broken just in case Chanyeol needed them, cooked dinner just in case Chanyeol decided to come back from what Baekhyun assumed to be a business trip, and made ten rounds to the garage just in case Chanyeol's car returned. Perhaps the extra anxiousness in his heart is due to his heat which he already dealt with suppressants, and Baekhyun knows he is just making a fool out of himself hoping that his owner would come back to stay by his side.
After all these years, Chanyeol never knew about his heat cycle, and Chanyeol fortunately never left his side either, so it's like a win-win situation. It's probably the first time Baekhyun will have to survive this phase alone, so yet again, he has no other choice but go to his owner's wardrobe and wrap himself up with the man's baggy clothes as he rolls on his spacious bed. The human's scent is at least making him feel at ease as if Chanyeol is close to him, giving him comfort and affection.
Good thing Chanyeol never locks his door. Baekhyun can freely roam around the room and smother himself in Chanyeol's bedsheets like he's a Corgi burrito.
"It's only been eight hours but I already miss my owner so much," Baekhyun mumbles through Chanyeol's wool sweater that he manages to wear despite its gigantic size. Its seam falls on Baekhyun's knees like a dress, while the sleeves overpass his arms so he has to clutch it with his fists. But he couldn't care less now as long as he is feeling warm. The clothes couldn't even compare to Chanyeol's cozy hugs but it's still bearable for now.
"Should I tell him to come home? What if he's busy?" Baekhyun stares at his phone screen and sighs. "I should apologize first for yelling at him like that..."
He is in the middle of mentally debating on what to text Chanyeol, when he hears the revving of the engine of Chanyeol's car being parked outside, as well as the shuffling noises of the front door unlocking. Jolting up to his feet, Baekhyun's heart begins to hammer inside his ribcage while his tail wags excitedly fast.
"O-oh my god, Ch-chanyeol's back!"
Glancing around Chanyeol's room which is literally a disarray after playing with his stuff like a pup, Baekhyun quickly double-thinks whether to, first: clean up the mess like nothing happened and calmly welcome Chanyeol; second: leave the room untidy and go back to his own bed and pretend sleeping; third: get out of the room, go to Chanyeol without a care in the world, and just hug him tight.
Baekhyun settles for the latter; and so he is now running to the living room as fast as a lightning before Chanyeol can open his mouth to utter a single syllable. He practically jumps and embraces his owner tightly, wrapping his arms around Chanyeol's waist securely. He buries his face into his human's familiar warmth while he basks in his homely presence.
"You're back... Welcome home..."
Chanyeol freezes on his spot, awestruck, hands suspended in the air inches behind Baekhyun's back. He closes his gaping jaw and finally softens when Baekhyun squeezes him, his big cute ears flattening against his shirt. It melts his heart to the core.
"I miss you so much, Chanyeol... I'm so sorry... Please don't leave me again..."
A guilty smile flashes on Chanyeol's face as he shakes his head wistfully, leaning the hybrid away so they can stare at each other in the eyes.
"No, Baekhyun. I should be the one to apologize... I'm really sorry for making you suffer by yourself... I'm so sorry for failing my responsibility. It's all my fault... I should've properly taken care of you instead of letting you handle things by your own. I apologize for all of my shortcomings," Chanyeol says, cupping Baekhyun's plump cheek and smoothing it with his thumb. His hand travels down Baekhyun's neck and lightly touches his collar, "Will you forgive me and give me a chance to be a proper owner to you?"
"Y-you never did anything wrong to me in the first place! I mean," Baekhyun stutters, "I don't even know what you're talking about, but since you're saying sorry then I'll forgive you whatever it is. You're my owner after all, and I'll be thankful for everything you do for me." He hugs Chanyeol again. "I'm just glad that you're here now above anything else."
Chanyeol chuckles heartily. Baekhyun being affectionate and clingy is just so cute. Him wearing his clothes too, is also purely adorable. He will never get tired of this.
"How are you feeling? Are you okay now? Do you still have a fever?" Chanyeol gently places his palm under the hybrid's fringe, sensing the temperature on his forehead. Baekhyun answers by shaking his head. "How about your pills? Did you take them already?"
Trying to hide his blush when Chanyeol intently studies his facial expressions, Baekhyun nods and awkwardly coughs. Those deep worried eyes are making his knees weak and it's not good for his fragile heart.
"I already took them. I'm okay now so you don't have to worry about my uh, my heat."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, I'm sure."
"Okay, then. Just tell me if you need any help and I'll gladly assist you into relieving---"
"I-I already told you I'm fine, okay?!" Baekhyun yells, flustered at the sudden concern, "You don't have to keep asking over and over again, you know." He steps back and turns around, muttering under his breath, "You have no idea how much you're making me feel embarrassed right now..."
"Hey. Why are you being so grumpy all of a sudden?" Grinning cheekily, Chanyeol peeks at Baekhyun's flushed face. "Can't handle your owner's handsomeness? Hm? Look at me. Come on, honey."
"Ho-honey?" Baekhyun loudly breathes and walks away while Chanyeol still follows him, "Tch. Just because I lowered down my guards a little doesn't mean you can already tease me however you want to."
"Baekhyun. Don't just turn your back at me. This is being rude, you know? Hey, your owner is still talking to you."
"I don't care. Now that I already saw your face and smelled your scent, I can now go to sleep. Good night, Chanyeol."
"Baekhyun."
Chanyeol suddenly grabs Baekhyun's wrist, making Baekhyun stop.
Baekhyun looks at the hand clutching his wrist, before trailing his eyes at his owner's face.
"Do you want to sleep together?"
Baekhyun can remember it vividly in his memory, the day when he first met Chanyeol.
It was five years ago, rain pouring heavily against the concrete on a cold busy afternoon. People with umbrellas were either walking slowly with their loved ones, or running hastily to shade themselves at the nearest bus stop.
Left shivering in his own skin and fur in a lonely hybrid shelter, Baekhyun could only wait for the sun to rise again.
Despite the hurtful truth that he was already abandoned by his owner, Baekhyun still held on to the tiny string of hope as he waited. It had been months and yet the young him still longed for his former owner to return. He believed to the empty promise that the human would come back to get him. But that person had long left the country, and the shelter's caretaker told him that the man got a new life of his own. His former owner wouldn't be be needing a pet anymore, so Baekhyun should just stop his delusions that he would be still wanted. He was nothing but just a breathing useless hybrid now.
Who would still want someone like him anyway? He was all desperate and needy. He would annoy everyone asking for goddamned attention. No one would want to take him in with such behavior, and he had no plans to come with them either. Heartbroken and betrayed, Baekhyun had lost hope, and it finally dawned on him that there would be no chance that his former owner would still come back to him; that he was now practically thrown away and forgotten, so he gave up on life.
Not until he met Chanyeol.
"Do you want to work for me?"
That was what the tall businessman had first told him after taking him to his abode and giving him food to eat. The hybrid shelter was forced to close down and Baekhyun had to move somewhere else, and it just happened that the caretaker knew someone who was living alone by himself. The man, whose name was Park Chanyeol, came to take him home, before he explained the terms and conditions of a job proposal.
And as an intelligent hybrid who had been a pet of a Professor, Baekhyun understood them and weighed the pros and cons. He would get to survive daily by working as someone's Secretary, so he then agreed to Chanyeol's demands and swore to himself never to trust humans anymore.
But emotions couldn't be controlled and hearts weren't made to be taught what to feel and who to love, so here Baekhyun is again, finding himself completely falling in love with his owner without expecting something in return.
"What are you thinking about?"
Baekhyun startles from the deep voice behind his neck. He flinches within Chanyeol's embrace and shifts on the bed, breathing calmly in the dark. Probably it's because of the additional warmth beside him that he is too overwhelmed to even close his eyes and drift off to sleep. It's not the first time that he is sleeping on Chanyeol's bed, but it's indeed the first time that he is sleeping on Chanyeol's bed, with Chanyeol himself snuggling against his body and hugging him from the back.
"You're still awake," Baekhyun mumbles, slightly moving so that he is now facing his owner. Chanyeol makes minimal adjustment so that his Corgi hybrid can move. Baekhyun presses closer. "I thought you were already sleeping..."
"How could I sleep when you're breathing loudly next to me," Chanyeol whispers gently, smiling down at Baekhyun gazing at him with wide shining eyes, "Do you feel uncomfortable? Should I let go of you?"
"No. Please don't," Baekhyun almost begs, Chanyeol restrains himself from laughing.
"We should do this from now on. Sharing body warmth and sleeping together on the same bed. How's that sound?" Chanyeol asks, "Is that too much to ask?"
"No." Baekhyun smiles, furiously shaking his head. He scoots closer and lets his perky ears brush on Chanyeol's jaw that has the man cackling lightly, "I want to be always close to you like this, Chanyeol."
"Good. Now will you tell me what's bothering you? Seems like you were thinking about something deep."
"I am?"
"Yes, you are. Your tail won't stop anxiously twitching here and there, you know. I could feel it under the blanket."
That results a pink color on the hybrid's cheeks.
"Well..."
"Hm?"
"I was just suddenly reminded of the day you and I first met five years ago," Baekhyun chuckles at the memory while Chanyeol only listens to him attentively. "It randomly just crossed my mind."
"Yeah? What happened?"
"You offered me a job opportunity and that's where everything started. That's all."
Baekhyun shrugs, not wanting to talk about it anymore as he gives Chanyeol a restrained smile. Chanyeol's face grows bland as though something has concerned him out of the blue. He removes his arms from occupying the hybrid's waist, and Baekhyun internally growls at the lack of contact. He searches for Chanyeol's eyes, afraid that he just did something wrong.
"You see, Baekhyun. About that."
"What is it?"
"I've been thinking..."
Chanyeol breathes.
"That you should stop working for me from now on."
Baekhyun's eyes widen.
"I want you to live a normal and comfortable life, and seeing you running errands for me, getting tired and feeling stressed out because of work, hurts me a lot. I feel guilty that I've been using you for my gain. I couldn't even compensate you that well. So I think it would just be better if... if you just stay here at home as my pet hybrid, and nothing more."
Baekhyun is at a lost of words. He doesn't know what to react to that. But one thing's for sure. He feels hurt. Again.
"So, what do you say? Will you think about it?"
Chanyeol is indeed one selfish bastard. Or if not, he's an idiot. A really clueless idiot.
"Why?" Baekhyun asks.
"Hm? What do you mean why?"
"Why all of a sudden? What made you think of that?"
"Oh, that," Chanyeol sits up on the bed and scratches his nape, "I mean, Jongin and Kyungsoo were probably right. That I'm the worst hybrid owner ever, that I've been only taking you for granted and always neglecting you because of work."
He chuckles awkwardly.
"I honestly didn't know a thing about heat cycles and I didn't even actually try asking you regarding that matter either. I'm your owner so I should know, right? So I decided to make up to my lacking by taking one step, and the first one is to get a load off your chest. Working for me must be hard on you. Your day-offs are limited and I always give you the hardest jobs you could barely sleep and relax. It may take a toll on your health in the long run, and I'm just worried about you."
"Do you think I care about that?"
"Don't you care about your health?"
"No--yes, I mean---" Baekhyun exasperatedly sighs, "That's not the point." He also sits on the bed in front of Chanyeol who's only looking intently at him. "I understand your intentions and I appreciate the thought, but I'm not a weak hybrid. I can do my job properly and I want to work for you. I want to assist you in everything that you do at the company even if that would mean I have to stay by your side twenty-four seven. That's what makes me alive. That's my reason to exist."
"Yes, Baekhyun, I know what you're capable of. But this time, I want to take care of you better. I want to see this soft side of you towards me. Just like this," Chanyeol gestures at their domestic selves, "It makes me happy when I see you wearing my clothes and waiting for me to come home. It makes me smile when you cling to me, asking for affection and hugs. I want to pet you and hold you without reservations. I want to give everything that you ask without you having to worry about work, deadlines, or heat. Don't you want to live a stress-free life?"
"Of course. I want to, but..."
"But?"
"But I don't want to be a useless hybrid anymore," Baekhyun says and hugs his knees close to his chest. Hearing that causes Chanyeol to tense up, "I want to serve my purpose, and that is to be always by your side. If I stop working for you, that would only mean I have to stay at home and wait for your return like a trained dog... And I don't want that... I don't want to be apart from you even just for a second, a minute, let alone an hour. What if you suddenly leave me and never come back? W-what am I supposed to do if that thing happens to me again?"
"Baekhyun..."
"Do you know how hard it was to be abandoned because you couldn't do anything? Because you're defenseless? Because you're just a pet and nothing more?"
"No. Shit," Chanyeol quickly pulls Baekhyun into his arms when the poor thing starts to sob and tremble, "No, baby... That's not what I mean, I'm sorry... I'm really sorry. Oh god." He soothes Baekhyun's back and hushes him softly, "I didn't mean to make you feel that way. I'm sorry. I apologize... Forget what I said, alright? Don't think about nonsense things. I will never leave you. Whatever it was that happened to you in the past will never happen to you again. I promise." He feels Baekhyun nod against his shoulder as his pet twists the hem of his shirt. "I may not know everything but I will try my hardest to be good to you. I'm going to stay by your side for a long time and you have my word on that."
"Chanyeol..."
"Let's just keep doing both. Be my pet and work for me. Let's cuddle at night and work during the morning. You don't have to quit your job. Just serve as my assistant forever. Okay?"
Baekhyun snorts out a laugh and lightly punches Chanyeol's gut. "That's what I'm talking about, you silly owner."
"Oh god, why am I so stupid," Chanyeol leans away and presses an affectionate kiss on the crown of Baekhyun's hair, "I'm sorry, honey. I'll work on communicating with you more. I promise."
"You do?"
"Yes."
"But... But why are you suddenly... dropping cheesy endearments?"
"What, you hate it?"
"No," Baekhyun hides his face behind a pillow he manages to shove his reddening face into, "I like it."
-
Luhan suspiciously squints his eyes behind the planner he is holding to cover his face.
"Why am I suddenly smelling something sweet in our working environment."
"I know, right," Sehun, the team leader slash Luhan's boyfriend, says. His coffee is stolen by Luhan so he gets another one to drink. "Baekhyun must be in a good mood today."
"I thought I was the only one who thinks that way," Kyungsoo, who just came in to the office, mutters. He sits on the swivel chair beside Sehun and pretends to busy himself typing away on the laptop when Chanyeol suddenly stands up from his own seat only to walk towards Baekhyun's desk. "Oh my god, did you guys see that?"
Luhan clamps his mouth shut, "What Kdrama is this."
Sehun hums, "Don't they always do that, though? But it has extra sparks now."
"True!" Luhan and Kyungsoo both chant giddily.
Three pairs of scrutinizing eyes outside Chanyeol's glass office keenly observe the scene happening at the distance. Since the CEO has a separate office inside their main office and a desk provided for his Secretary, the staff members can still see what's going on unless the blinds are lowered. But that's not the case here; those two individuals must be too oblivious of their surroundings to notice the attention they are garnering right now.
But it's not like it's a bad thing that Chanyeol is hovering behind Baekhyun, his arms caging Baekhyun's entire frame as they both work on something on the computer that personal space between them is non-existent. It's not like it's also a bad thing to lovingly smile at each other after finishing whatever the hell they're doing that requires holding hands over that innocent computer mouse. Of course, it's good. Chanyeol is the boss and Baekhyun is his assistant, they can do whatever they want to do at work.
Kyungsoo, Luhan, and Sehun exchange knowing looks, smirking.
"Get Jongin's sign and leave the document on my desk. I'll be needing it for the meeting."
"Okay. But how about the call from J Enterprise waiting in line? You shouldn't forget it."
"I won't. Thanks, Baekhyun. You may leave."
"See you later, then."
Baekhyun bows at Chanyeol before getting out of his office, and he almost jumps in heart attack seeing his three colleagues huddled together and blocking the door outside. He holds his chest and glares at them.
"Shit, what are you guys doing there!?"
The two hybrids plus the human, trail behind Baekhyun like paparazzi. Works are set aside. Hot news is more important.
"Are you and Chanyeol finally dating?" Sehun asks excitedly, propping his elbows on Baekhyun's desk. "Congratulations, Baekhyun!"
"Since when? Who confessed first?" Luhan follows, his ears tweaking excitedly as his tail flips back and forth. "Oh my god, it's not unrequited anymore! I'm so happy for you!"
"Did you guys do it? How's Chanyeol's thing? Was it really big?" Kyungsoo blurts out blatantly. "How is it like to spend your heat with your owner!?"
Embarrassed when other people start looking at him, Baekhyun prevents himself to blow up. Instead, he just grabs a magazine from his bookshelf and rolls it to prepare for attack. He sighs calmly and turns at his three wide-eyed friends anticipating for his answer.
"First off, Chanyeol and I are not in that kind of relationship," Baekhyun hits Sehun's head, causing the male to cry out, "Second off, neither me nor my owner confessed anything because there is nothing to confess about," Baekhyun smacks Luhan's ears that has the cat hybrid hissing at him, "Lastly, we never engaged into such act, and I didn't spend my heat with Chanyeol so stop asking about his size!" Baekhyun strikes Kyungsoo's butt with the magazine, causing his friend to wail out in pain. "Why am I even friends with dumbasses like you anyway!?"
Chanyeol goes out of his office, and Baekhyun doesn't forget to offer him his brightest smile, annoyance forgotten. Chanyeol beams at him in return and proceeds to his appointment.
"Whipped," Kyungsoo side-comments, earning him an eyeroll from Baekhyun.
"Is Chanyeol still here?"
Baekhyun lifts his head up from working on a document on his laptop. He sees a panting Jongin who looks like he raced into coming here.
"He already left just now. Why?"
"Baekhyun, can you give him this file, please? He couldn't have gone that far, right? Thank you!"
Aside from being the most reliable assistant one could ever have, Baekhyun has also a talent in running that can beat every fastest runner out there. That's why he caught up to Chanyeol before the man could ride the elevator heading outside the company. He has a lunch appointment with some important investors today.
"Chanyeol! Wait!"
"Baekhyun?"
"Thank god you're still here," Baekhyun catches for his breath while Chanyeol holds him by the arm, "Jongin.... He told me to give... you this file... He said... it's important... Here... Take it."
Smiling proudly, Chanyeol mutters a quick thanks to his hybrid before putting the folder inside his briefcase. The elevator door opens, and it surprises Baekhyun that Chanyeol abruptly grabs his arm so that he can also come with him inside. The elevator is cramped and there is not enough moving space, so Chanyeol stands in the corner while Baekhyun is inside his arms. He protects Baekhyun from being squished by other people.
"W-what am I doing here?" Baekhyun mutters, looking up to his owner's handsome face which is leaning dangerously close to his, "I still have work to do back in the office..."
"You're coming with me. Is that all right?" Chanyeol whispers, scooting down to press his lips on Baekhyun's ear, "I need a chauffer and of course, a Secretary with me."
Baekhyun tries not to smile at the small contact, "You could've just asked me to join you earlier."
"Not when you're busy talking to your friends?"
"You know they don't matter! They're idiots!"
"Rude."
The restaurant is not that far from the company; it's a private room in a Hanok, a traditional Korean house settled in the city of Seoul. As they enter the place, Baekhyun can't help admiring its tiled curvy roofs and wooden beams with its stone-block construction. Windows, pillars, and doors are made with straws and traditional paper which make them more beautiful and breathable. Taking off their shoes, the floor is warm against their feet as they sit down across the long table.
Pleasantries and greetings are exchanged between the four to five VIP's including Chanyeol. During business meetings like these with clients and potential investors, it is always important to leave good impressions, so Chanyeol and Baekhyun work hard together to close a deal and make it successful. Baekhyun stays beside his owner, quietly listening and recording important notes on his tablet while also helping on pouring drinks for the older men. He laughs once in a while although the jokes are quite outdated and unfunny; meanwhile Chanyeol also makes sure his hybrid feels comfortable and respected during the conversation. That is also one of the things that Baekhyun loves about his owner. Chanyeol never makes him feel inferior and unimportant.
The conference ends shortly on a good note; Chanyeol shaking hands with Chairman Zhang Yixing of J Enterprise after signing and validating the contract. Baekhyun offers his owner one proud blinding smile, telling him he did a good job. That subtle scarlet tinge on Chanyeol's cheeks doesn't go unnoticed to Baekhyun's eyes.
Baekhyun snickers to himself while Chanyeol plays it cool, laughing a bit loudly when the Chairman says he's one goodlooking fine lad.
The restaurant owner by the name of Lucas, finally arrives to serve the food. Baekhyun, like what he always does, automatically helps preparing the table. He hands chopsticks and bowls, and also grills the meat and cuts them into pieces before he can start eating his own food. He makes rounds into refilling the clients' soups and side dishes, earning him nice compliments and praises. Chanyeol then confidently tells stories about his Secretary, making Baekhyun suddenly embarrassed of his owner's own exaggerations.
"Excuse me. Mr. Park requested for two extra desserts," Baekhyun calls in front of the kitchen counter. Lucas gestures at the bowls of shaved ice in front of him, smiling.
"Thank you!"
"No problem. Be careful with the tray. It's cold."
Serving the dessert to the remaining VIP's at the dining area, Baekhyun looks for Chanyeol's whereabouts and finds him outside. He's at the garden having a chat with Chairman Zhang, lounging at the smoking area with cigarettes in their hands. This is not the first time that Baekhyun sees Chanyeol vaping; Chanyeol only does it for work so he can match the VIP's who smoke while engaging into a talk. Baekhyun knows his owner never liked doing it, he hopes Chanyeol would just stop if he had the chance to.
Baekhyun is about to leave when he suddenly hears his name. He decides to stay and eavesdrop on their conversation, hiding behind the wall.
"Mr. Park, I'm quite impressed by Baekhyun, your Secretary. You must've trained your hybrid a lot."
"Well, Sir. Honestly speaking, I didn't teach him anything. He is talented and smart in his own way. I sometimes think I'm the one who depends on him though, more than he seeks for my help. He is very reliable."
"Really? Then, despite your outstanding skills, you're just one silly man!"
"I actually believe on that, Sir."
They both share a laugh.
"If you don't mind me asking. May ask a personal question to you?"
"Yes, Sir. Go ahead."
"Do you mind meeting people on dates? I actually wanted to introduce someone to you."
Chanyeol forces a laugh, muttering to himself. "So this is what it's all about..."
"Are you seeing someone, Mr. Park? Are you in a relationship?"
"No, Sir. I'm not dating anyone right now."
"That's good, then! What's your ideal type? I just want to know. No pressure."
"My ideal type, Sir?"
"Yes."
"Well. My ideal type is a bit specific. Let's see... I like someone with a charming and witty personality. Maybe someone cute but also has a great body? They don't have to be on the same field as me. I think I want to meet people who has the same interests as me. And most importantly, I like someone whom I can protect and take care of."
"You mean you want to be with a person who tends to rely on you?"
"Yes. I guess, I do."
Baekhyun in his hiding spot, is still quiet and intently listening. He shouldn't be doing this knowing he will only get hurt. But what can he do, he can never turn back and unhear. He knows Chanyeol's ideal type will never be him. He's not charming at all. He doesn't even have a sexy body. He's not someone whom Chanyeol can protect and take care of, and to begin with, he's not people. He's a hybrid, not a human being. And as a hybrid, Chanyeol will never look at him the same way how people would look at their lovers. He's only a pet whom Chanyeol showers with affection, nothing more. He already knows that fact from the very beginning when he started developing feelings for Chanyeol, but it still hurts during reality check. It still hurts every time dating is brought up on the line.
"Anyway, what interests you during your free time?"
"Music, Sir. And pets."
"That's great! You see, I have a sister who's the same age as you, Mr. Park. She just came back from Hawaii and she's a pianist. She also takes care of a dog hybrid."
"Oh, really?"
"Yes, and what you described just now, she matches that personality well! I think it would be nice if you have dinner with her once. What do you say?"
"I think that wouldn't hurt, Sir."
"Good, good! Not only you are handsome, you really are one fine lad, Mr. Park! Hahaha!"
Baekhyun retreats, seeing the gentlemen going back inside the room. Like nothing happened, he fixes his facial expression and comes out with a professional smile back on his face. He returns to his spot beside Chanyeol, shaking the VIP's hands and taking them outside until they reach their cars. They wait for them to leave before they ride their own car heading back to the company, fulfilled and successful with another deal.
The silence in the middle of Baekhyun peacefully driving is interrupted by Chanyeol furiously coughing. Side-eyeing his owner worriedly, he sees Chanyeol grabbing a bottle of water and drinking on it until he's better. Chanyeol also gets a perfume from the drawer in front of his seat, spraying it to his coat in attempt to mask in the cigarette and alcohol smell that have sticked to his clothes. He scrunches his nose in disgust and decides to just take off his uncomfortable coat, throwing it to the backseat. He fishes out the vape from his pocket as well, hiding it away somewhere in the compartment.
During a red light, Baekhyun's hand automatically reaches for the paper bag behind the backrest containing a spare coat, handing it to Chanyeol. Chanyeol mumbles a quick thanks while he wears it on, flattening some crumples against his chest to look like brand new. Baekhyun helps him adjust his crooked necktie as Chanyeol fixes his hair on the mirror. He allows Baekhyun to slip back the first two buttons of his shirt as he also wipes Baekhyun's sweat on his forehead. Baekhyun then makes sure that his owner looks exactly the same when they left the company after literally slaving themselves out to people with more power.
That's just the corporate life, and it's also just the familiarity between him and Chanyeol that make them normalize everything within seconds before the green light flashes again.
"How do I look?" Chanyeol asks.
"Perfect," Baekhyun helplessly sighs as he resumes driving. "You should consider quitting smoking."
"You know I don't smoke. I only hit two and I faked puffing the rest."
"Right. You're indeed a good actor, Mr. Park."
"Thanks for putting up with me again. I can't basically function without you."
Baekhyun smiles coyly, "And to think you thought about firing me? What could've happened if it was Sehun whom you brought with you and not me?"
"Well. He's more handsome than me so I think he'd get to do the dating talk with the Chairman," Chanyeol cracks the harmless joke, unaware of the sudden gloom it brings to Baekhyun's eyes, "If only I've got the chance to put Jongin on my shoes at times like this... But unfortunately, he's now engaged so..."
"E-engaged?"
Baekhyun looks surprised and confused.
"Oh! I shouldn't have told you that. I was thinking in advance," Chanyeol chuckles, "He's not yet engaged, he's still planning to propose by the end of the year. Don't tell Kyungsoo about it."
It keeps Baekhyun mentally pre-occupied throughout the rest of the ride until they head back to the company, until they get off from work, and until the next day comes. Of course, he is happy for his friend. Jongin will be the perfect owner and life partner for Kyungsoo. It's not jealousy nor insecurity that he feels towards the news. Maybe it's just pure longingness. Back in the past, he also secretly dreamt for the same thing to happen to him; to have a lover who will treat him more than just a pet hybrid, to get married to that someone, to settle down like what normal people do, to adopt kids and puppies, and to live in a house with a big family.
And to Baekhyun, it will only stay as an ambition, an aspiration, a mere fantasy. Because for a half-human and half-animal like him, that dream is impossible to happen as long as he stays in love with Chanyeol, and as long as he keeps working for him. He forgot about that petty dream he made when he was younger anyway; because he has found a new purpose now.
And that is to serve Chanyeol and make him happy.
Baekhyun is contented to what he has now, being able to see, smell, touch, and hold his owner, stay next to Chanyeol whenever he needs him, and just simply exist at the same time as him. That is how love is to him, and he will always be grateful for the attention and fondness Chanyeol provides him no matter which kind of love it may be. It will always be enough and overflowing. He wakes up every morning to this mindset, and sleeps every night repeating the same exact mindset as a routine.
"Baekhyun, you still up?"
When Chanyeol comes out of the shower drying his hair, he spots the Corgi hybrid already lying on the left side of the bed facing the wall. Baekhyun must be already sleeping, he thinks, and he confirms it by peeking at Baekhyun's peaceful state, breathing steadily. A kind smile appears on Chanyeol's mouth, sitting on the bed next to a cozy Baekhyun wearing one of his pajamas again. Chanyeol coos at the lovely sight while he watches like a proud mother Baekhyun comfortably sleeping next to him. It's like his insides go all mushy whenever Baekhyun shows him his hybrid side; he wants to keep the pet inside his pocket and baby him forever. Baekhyun is just too adorable and cute, he deserves all the love in the world.
Chanyeol is happy of course, that he is making a huge progress about his relationship with Baekhyun. After agreeing to sleeping together on his bed every night, Baekhyun is now starting to warm up to him. Chanyeol doesn't have to ask him anymore, because Baekhyun himself is the one who is now taking the initiative to cuddle with him on the couch as they watch TV after work. Baekhyun is more gentle with his words and actions compared to before; he says thank you, I miss you, sorry, take care, good night, please, and other kind words more frequently and more honestly. He allows Chanyeol to pet him whenever he wants to (except in the office); letting him rub his tummy, kiss his forehead, eyes, and nose, hold his hand, and touch his ears and hair as an affectionate gesture. He owns Chanyeol's wardrobe like it belongs to him, wearing every one of his hoodie and sweater as much as he likes more than he wears his own clothes. Chanyeol doesn't mind, as long as Baekhyun is happy, then he is the happiest, too.
But most importantly, even if Baekhyun won't openly tell Chanyeol about his heat schedule, he doesn't keep it from his owner anymore either. It's already marked on the calendar, so Chanyeol knows it when to treat Baekhyun more gently and handle him with extra care.
One thing that Chanyeol learns about Baekhyun is that, he definitely is a sweet and affectionate hybrid who always yearns for the love and attention of his owner. Baekhyun may be different and strictly professional at work, but by the time they come home, Baekhyun freely becomes himself. He's also like a normal domestic pet after all, just like what everyone else have in their own household. Baekhyun gets embarrassed when Chanyeol teases him he must look so pretty wearing just his collar, he complains when he's hungry and there's no food, he cries when he has nightmares at night, he laughs when he finds a TV program funny, he smiles at the littlest things Chanyeol does for him, and he gets angry when Chanyeol prefers to play with his phone than pet him. Chanyeol wonders how Baekhyun managed to keep these all to himself, while also thinking how he managed to neglect Baekhyun all these years.
Still on the bed and endearingly watching a sleeping Baekhyun looking like a puppy, Chanyeol carefully shifts for a more comfortable position after turning off the lights and flicking on the lampshade. He quietly slips himself under the covers and grabs his now favorite book to continue where he left off last night. Baekhyun recommended Lang Leav to him and her books of poems are indeed heartwarming to read. He'll probably fall asleep later so he should just finish a page or two.
"The Universe of Us," Chanyeol reads the title on the cover.
Baekhyun involuntarily twitches in his sleep, making Chanyeol chuckle under his breath.
"I'm here," Chanyeol whispers, and as if on automatic, Baekhyun instantly turns around to face him. Chanyeol does the job to reach down to his pet, making the hybrid lie his head on top of his chest. Pressing a light kiss on Baekhyun's closed eyelids, Chanyeol plays with Baekhyun's fluffy hair with his right hand as he holds the book with his left. He keeps his eyes busy reading.
"Oh, this one's good. Ehem. Four thousand miles."
As if Baekhyun is listening, Chanyeol reads the poem aloud, his deep soothing voice accompanying the serenity of the night:
"The lines stitched into highways,
the never ending seams;
on roads that are less traveled,
dividing you and me.
I wish I could unravel
the fabric in-between;
and tear away the distance
to bring you close to me."
Chanyeol admiringly gazes down at Baekhyun after closing the book and returning it to the nightstand. He silently wonders at the back of his mind, what could be Baekhyun's thoughts and feelings. What are his dreams? What are his fears? What makes him Baekhyun? Is this the everything? Chanyeol might have already crossed the line to close their distance, yet Baekhyun seems still far away. But what could be it? Why can't he still grasp that certain incompleteness?
Maybe this isn't enough. Maybe he should try harder.
But for now, he'll just call it a day. Right here, by Baekhyun's side.
Chanyeol swats Baekhyun's fringe, gently kissing his forehead and the tip of his nose.
"Good night, love. Sleep tight."
He fails to see the little smile forming on Baekhyun's lips.
*
To be continued.