Chapter Text
Minho felt horrible.
Horrible was an understatement to what he was feeling actually.
He didn't expect to hurt Chan's feelings. He didn't know what even came over him and if Jisung and Hyunjin weren't getting married in a few hours, he would have stayed in bed and drowned in his sorrows. He knew he crossed the line last night, he said things he couldn't take back and worst, he had made Chan upset.
He trudged his feet to the washroom, taking a shower and brushing his teeth before pulling his new suit out. Minho stared at it for a moment, his mind still feeling hazy and heart heavy. It was hard sleeping when he knew Chan was right next door, separated by a thin wall, probably crying thanks to him. He wore his shirt and pants slowly, sighing as he picked up his tie, staring at it cluelessly, wondering if Jisung would kick him if he went down and asked him to tie it for him, before settling for throwing it over his neck and observing himself in the mirror.
He looked like a mess.
Minho ran a hand through his hair, which had grown longer than usual since he had been too lazy to get it cut, the bangs covering his eyes. He tried to style it sideways, letting a few strands fall messily onto his forehead. He was searching for his phone when there was a knock on the door.
Who could it be at this time when everyone would be too busy with getting ready for the wedding?
He headed towards the door, pulling it open and his heart dropping straight into the pits of his stomach when he saw it was Chan. The man looked extremely gorgeous in his suit and tie, his curls styled and framing his face and eyeliner adorning his eyes, making them look so alluring.
"Chan?" Minho spluttered out.
Chan didn't say a word, taking a step forward, pushing past Minho and entering the room before turning around.
"Look.” He began, looking conflicted, “I am a man who keeps my promises so I am here to tie your tie after which I'm heading down. Just come closer and don't talk." He ordered, his lips pursued up.
Minho knew there was no point in saying anything and took a step forward, closing the distance between both of them. He gawked down at Chan, who was avoiding his gaze, but it was good enough for him so he could observe Chan in peace. Up close, he could see the dark circles under Chan's eyes, masked by concealer, and the slight red tinge in his nose. He wondered if Chan had actually been crying the whole night and it made him feel even more worse.
Chan's hands came up slowly, removing the tie that Minho had slung around his neck before tying something that looked like a knot. He then took another step closer, and Minho felt his breath hitch as he wanted to grab Chan and hug him but he knew that the man would just push him off.
Chan placed the tie around his neck before adjusting the knot, his forehead creased, and his tongue poking out slightly as he concentrated on making the tie look perfect. Minho could feel the goosebumps forming from where Chan's fingers grazed the exposed skin of his neck. He stood still as Chan finished adjusting, before patting it down. Chan didn't step back immediately like Minho expected. Instead, the man peered up, meeting Minho's gaze and the tension in the air suddenly turned so thick that Minho could feel his chest tighten. He watched as Chan pressed his lips into a tight line, his eyes softening and the way he swallowed slowly and Minho felt a strong urge to engulf the man into a hug.
He took a step forward just as Chan took one step back.
"Chan, we-" Minho started, "We need to talk."
"No we don't." Chan replied back immediately, his eyes hardening before he turned around and walked towards the door.
Minho went after him, grabbing his elbow and pulling him back, "Look, I am sorry." He apologised. "What do you want me to do?"
"I want what you want. For us to leave each other alone." Chan said curtly as he tried to pull his arm away.
Minho tightened his hold as he continued, "I was being ridiculous and stupid, Chan." He said, "Can't you just let it go?"
Chan glared at him as he inhaled in a breath, "Minho, do you have any idea how embarrassing it was for me?" Minho could feel the rigidity in the man as he continued, "The more I think about it… you were right." He laughed scornfully, "I kept following you, I was a fool for thinking you didn't want to be left alone. I mean, I was trying to be a nice guy but I can see why you would think I was throwing myself at you." He exhaled heavily as he pulled his arm out of Minho's hold, "I guess it's my fault for caring about you." He finished before leaving the room, leaving Minho to wallow in his own misery.
Minho didn't know what else he could do to make Chan forgive him, as he finished getting ready, and grabbed the ring before heading down to the wedding hall.
He headed towards the groom's room, knocking on one of the doors before peeping in.
"It's finally here." Minho chuckled as he stepped inside, spotting Jisung fussing with the buttons on his sleeves. Minho immediately went over to him, helping him out. "How are you feeling?"
"Stressed. And happy." Jisung sighed, as he waited for Minho to finish adjusting his sleeves. "I want this day to be perfect, you know. Not for me but for…"
"Yes. For Hyunjin." Minho smiled at his best friend, before stepping back and giving Jisung a once over to see if everything was perfect, "And trust me when I say this, but you are making him really happy. This is perfect, you can't get more perfect than this."
"Thank you, Minho." Jisung patted him on the shoulder, "It really means a lot having you here."
"And I will always be here for you, Jisung."
Jisung's smile broadened even more as he took his suit out and wore it.
"You're the best." He said, before shooing at him, "Now go stand at your place, the wedding is beginning soon."
Minho felt his own smile drop as he realised he had to walk down the aisle with Chan and maybe Jisung noticed it because he asked him, "Are things okay with Chan?"
"Yeah…" Minho lied, not wanting to worry Jisung with their problems when it was supposed to be his big day.
"Really?" Jisung asked, clearly not believing him.
"Yes." Minho repeated, this time with a smile that he hoped looked reassuring enough.
Jisung was still staring at him skeptical but decided to let it go.
"Alright. See you later, Minho." Jisung giggled as Minho gave him a thumbs up and left to start lining up.
Minho's smile faded away when he saw Chan, already waiting outside the hall. The man looked just as beautiful as he did when he turned up in front of his door to help with his tie, yet Minho couldn't help but let his eyes wander all over him, noticing how the slacks hugged his body well in the right places.
As Minho's eyes continued up, he saw Chan's eyes flicker up to meet his before looking away. He saw the hurt and anger in his eyes though, which made him stop in his steps. Chan saw him hesitate as he rolled his eyes before saying, "Yeah don't worry. After this I will leave you alone."
"Chan, listen." Minho began, his voice pleading, "You don't have to leave me alone. I told you I was being stupid."
"Just focus on the wedding, Minho."
Seungmin came out at that time, dressed in a suit and wearing a headset, gesturing to Minho and Chan to come over to the entrance. "Once the music begins, You two can start walking." Seungmin ordered them. "Just walk slowly, matching the beats like you did in the rehearsal, and once you reach the altar, you go to the opposite sides." Seungmin patted them on the sides before asking, "You got the rings right?"
Minho and Chan nodded, and Seungmin gave them a beaming sweet smile, "Good. I don't have to murder you guys then." He left before Minho could even react.
“Chan…” Minho turned to him, but the man was looking straight ahead and gave his arm out instead, "Let's be civil and get this over with, for the sake of both our best friends."
Minho didn't say anything, as he watched Chan inhale in a deep breath when he linked his arms with him.
A few minutes later, the music started playing to open the ceremony, with Hyunjin and Jisung's puppies, Kkami and Bbama pattering their tiny paws down the flowery path. Then, Minho started walking slowly, with Chan, down the aisle, very aware of Chan's arm in his. Even though they managed to bond a lot in the previous days, they felt like complete strangers at this point and it was hurting Minho even though he knew it was his fault.
He tried to focus his attention on the wedding instead and was awestruck by how beautiful the place looked. When they did their rehearsal, it looked like a normal hall. However, now, it had been decorated, with petals scattered on the aisle, flowers of different shades on the walls, and golden fairy lights brightening up the room, giving it a fairytale glow. Straight ahead, the arch was also decorated with both the groom's favourite flowers and as they reached the altar, Minho let go of Chan's arm to go to his own place.
Then Changbin and Felix joined them along with Jeongin and Seungmin, who had taken his headset off just for the moment.
The audience gasped in awe as Jisung started walking down the aisle with his parents, smiling brightly, and looking happier than Minho had ever seen him. Happier than even the time when he adopted Bbama. Minho felt his heart swell with pride and affection as Jisung gave him a tiny wave and stood at his spot. Then Hyunjin started walking down the aisle and Minho had to admit, the man really had a princely aura to him that seemed to cast a spell on the entire crowd in the hall. Minho glanced over at Chan and he wished he didn’t because he could see that Chan was in the midst of wiping his tears away. The man looked ethereal just standing there. Tiny specks of dust seemed to dance around Chan in the shaft of afternoon sunlight that slanted through the window, giving the man a glow. The way he was smiling, the two dimples creating craters in his cheeks and his eyes glistening with tears. Minho wished he could take a picture of Chan like this and frame it in a museum because wow Chan was a work of art. He shook his head, trying to focus on the wedding.
Chan probably sensed Minho's stare from the other side as he looked up at that moment, and Minho quickly looked away, his heart racing. He swallowed down the painful knot in his throat, paying attention as Hyunjin and Jisung began to exchange vows.
“Hyunjin-ah.” Jisung began his vows, with a smile, his voice wavering, “I remember when I first saw you… how I freaked out because I couldn’t understand my feelings for you and ran away. However, you were just amused and you came to me, and you made me understand what love actually was about. Before you, I was just a man trying to make people laugh, and never cared about what I wanted, but you changed that…you made me care for myself as well, and you made me a better person. There was a spark that ignited when we first met and I promise to never lose that spark and to always do the little things to make you happy. You are the most romantic man I know and you make my bad days better, you make my life seem like a fairy tale, and you are a dream that came true. I love you so much, more than anything.”
Minho didn’t realise he was holding his breath through Jisung’s vows, and he vaguely recalled the time Jisung had come to him after he met Hyunjin, how the man looked so conflicted, so confused, yet dazed like he saw a fairy. At that time, Minho didn’t really think it would be a big deal, yes Jisung was infatuated, but he thought the feeling would fade away, but now Jisung was marrying Hyunjin, his very own prince. Minho also remembered Jisung telling him that having feelings for Hyunjin was extremely confusing in the beginning, until he accepted those emotions to be love.
Minho glanced over at Chan quickly, who was subtly trying to wipe his tears from the corner of his eyes. Was the feelings Jisung had for Hyunjin the same like had been having for Chan?
“Jisung…” Hyunjin smiled, his eyes swimming with tears, “You are extremely loud, you disrupt my peaceful art atmosphere, you are chaotic and I am still afraid to let you in the room when I am painting.” He paused as the crowd laughed softly, before continuing, “You taught me how to live life, which had been pretty monotonous for me until I met you. Being with you is like a never ending adventure and I want to be on this adventure till I die. No one had made me laugh as much as you and I learnt to appreciate myself thanks to you. I cherish you with my whole heart and soul. I love you to the moon and back, Han Jisung.”
Blinking back the sudden wave of emotions behind his eyes, Minho inhaled in deeply and handed the ring over when he was summoned. He watched as Jisung and Hyunjin got married and shared their first kiss together as a married couple, the entire hall erupting in cheers. Minho also started clapping, feeling happiness flood through his entire body as he started cheering.
As they proceeded into the huge room down the hall, where the married couple were supposed to have their first dance together and where the food was to be served, Minho saw Chan a few feet away from him, happily engaged in a conversation with one of Hyunjin’s friends that he had lunch with but whose name he couldn’t remember. Was it Changbin? And it stirred something inside him, mostly anger at himself as this could have been him with Chan.
He sighed as he went to take a seat at the table behind the newly married couple. He took his phone out, scrolling through the notifications, not really paying attention to anything since his mind was occupied by Chan. He was going to go get himself something to eat when someone came and took a seat next to him.
It was the guy that had been talking to Chan a few minutes back.
“Hello.” The man greeted him.
Minho gave him a nod in acknowledgment, trying to replenish his social battery skills.
“What’s up?” The man asked him, confusing Minho.
“Good, how are you?”
“Great. Anyways, what’s up with you and Chan?” The man asked bluntly, startling Minho.
Minho stared at him for a long minute, his forehead creasing into a frown, “Who are you?”
The man laughed as he leant back on his chair, “Changbin, we had breakfast together, remember?”
Minho shook his head, “Why are you asking me about Chan?”
“Because I was watching you two last night. I saw you guys dance, really really close together and then you both were all happy and lovey dovey and then you left and then when you two came down today, it was like you both were strangers.”
Minho took in a deep breath, trying to register what Changbin had told him. First of all, the man was watching them? Second of all, was it that obvious or was it obvious only to Changbin?
“Don’t worry, I just like to study people for fun, and you two looked like there was something interesting going on you know?” Changbin laughed.
“You were just watching us the whole night?” Minho asked skeptically.
“Not the whole night please.” Changbin scoffed, “Just your dance and then you two left. I have better things to do too, like annoying Seungmin.” He said, a fond smile creeping on his face.
“Okay…” Minho scratched the bridge of his nose absentmindedly, “Well, nothing is going on. Not anymore anyways.”
“Oh…so something was going on.”
“Maybe. But I screwed up.” Minho sighed defeatedly.
“Young man…let me give you some advice.” Changbin said as he rolled up his suit sleeves. “Don’t give up. Fight for your love.”
“Like I haven’t tried.” Minho muttered, “Chan wouldn’t listen to me.”
“Look, I have known Chan for like a year and I know the man was not the type to so easily fall in love or get swooped up by someone’s charms.” Changbin said, chuckling softly, “Believe me. I tried and I think I am a very charming man.”
Minho looked up at him astonished, his eyes scrunched up in confusion, “What are you saying?”
“I used to flirt and hit on Chan and he would get flustered but it was totally different from how he was with you.” Changbin shrugged, “I don’t know what he found in you and I thought maybe you just have to know that. You were different, perhaps even special to him.”
These words from Changbin were piercing straight into his heart, as his mind tried so hard to absorb them. He had judged Chan wrongly, he had thought the man was someone who was just looking for a good time, he had let his insecurity win over him and now he didn’t know how to win back Chan.
Changbin seemed to have sensed the turmoil going through Minho’s brain as he said soothingly, “Listen…just fight for it and go talk to him if you really care.”
Minho met the man’s gaze, and nodded, “Thank you, Changbin.”
Changbin grinned at him as he patted his hand, “I love making fools in love see that they are in love.” He declared proudly.
Minho felt a smirk forming on his face as he countered, “So what’s up with you and Seungmin?”
Changbin clearly looked flabbergasted, as he spluttered, saved thankfully by the sound of glass clinking together.
“Speech! Speech!” Jeongin was shouting from a table at the front as he nudged Chan to stand up.
Chan had a smile on his face as he stood up slowly, going up the stage to the podium, “Hello everyone.” He greeted in his soft voice, “As you all know, I am Hyunjin’s best man, and on this special day I would like to talk about how Hyunjin had taught me about one of the most powerful emotions in the world, which is…” He turned to face Hyunjin and Jisung, and Minho could feel his heart slowly stop as Chan’s eyes flickered to meet his, “Love.” Chan cleared his throat as he smiled at Hyunjin, “This man would often gush about love and the most unrealistic scenarios way before he had even met Jisung. But I remember the day he met Jisung, he came up to me and told me and I quote, ‘Chan…I think I found my soulmate but he ran away from me.’” Chan laughed fondly at the memory as he continued, “I was very judgmental in the beginning to be honest, and made fun of him. But Hyunjin would just keep describing the feeling of love in his own poetic way, about how it is a feeling that you wouldn’t feel until it hits you right in your face. He warned me that when I meet the one, I would first be confused, be conflicted and wonder what was going on, that I might even think I am losing my mind or feeling sick, and he told me when that happens, I have to take in a deep breath and accept that that is called love. He assured me things would get better once you had accepted those emotions. I am so glad Hyunjin found someone like Jisung who I knew loves him as much as Hyunjin does.” Chan paused for a moment, his eyes starting to glisten as he inhaled shakily, his gaze meeting Minho’s, “To love someone is one thing, but to be loved as well by the same person? He made me want to experience that feeling of love as well…” He looked away, and Minho could tell the man’s composure was breaking, his own stomach filled with butterflies flapping their wings.
Did Chan just…confess?
“So thank you my Hyunjin, for sharing your feelings with me, for always having my back and helping me understand what love is. I am so glad you got your fairytale ending. I can confidently say that you both are a true representation of love and understanding, a couple that could actually be called soulmates. I love you both and I wish you nothing but happiness and a blissful life.” He raised his glass up, as he cheered, “Here’s to Hyunjin and Jisung!” Chan finished.
“I love you, Channie.” Hyunjin shouted, tears streaming down his face as Jisung passed him a tissue. The rest of the crowd were cheering at the speech, clapping loudly.
Chan gave Hyunjin and Jisung a tiny smile before hurrying down the stairs. Minho’s eyes were fixed on Chan even though everyone else had gone back to their conversations. He saw the slight shake of Chan’s shoulders as the man walked out the doors, and Minho felt like his body was on autopilot as he stood up to follow him even though it was his turn to give the speech.
Minho pushed through the waiters, before making it to the exit, walking out the door and finding Chan standing near the corner, back facing him and his body shaking. Minho went up to him without a word, and hugged him, holding him as he felt Chan cry harder. Minho felt his heart break, watching the man sob, but he knew sometimes, it was better to just be there for the person than to say something. Especially when he knew he would just make things worse if he said anything now.
Chan turned around, without even looking at who it was and buried his face onto his chest, sobbing and Minho held him, letting him cry it out.
A minute or two might have passed before Chan pulled back, “Argh sorry.” He groaned, rubbing his eyes. "I don't know what even hit me there."
“Chan…”
Chan froze, before looking up, his eyes hardening as he saw Minho, “You? I thought it was Hyunjin or someone else.” He pushed Minho away, letting out a startled noise as Minho caught his wrists.
“Chan look.”
“Are you seriously going to try and talk to me in this state?” Chan hissed angrily, his nose still red.
“No. I wanted to tell you that I came here just to be here for you. I am not here to talk or say anything.” Minho sighed, staring into the other’s eyes, “I am not here to take advantage of the situation. You don’t have to tell me why you are even crying. I just came because I thought you might need a shoulder to cry on.”
Chan continued to stare at him, his eyes slowly softening as he nodded, before pulling his hands out from Minho’s hold.
“Thank you…I guess.” Chan mumbled and Minho gave him a tiny nod, before turning around and making his way back inside, knowing that Chan might want some time to himself before he came back.
“There you are!” Seungmin exclaimed as he hurried over to him, “Where were you? Nevermind, don't waste time answering me, just go give your toast.” He pushed him towards the stage.
Minho cleared his throat nervously as he realised that he had forgotten half of the speech thanks to the stress that had taken over his life.
“Hello.” Minho swallowed as he began, “Well...I know Jisung since…forever I guess. Way too long to consider myself immune to Jisung’s antics.” He smiled sheepishly as he continued, “I never believed in love, nor soulmates and I knew Jisung was like that too…well until he saw Hyunjin. He said it was destiny.” Minho took a deep breath, trying to ease his nerves as he continued, “Jisung made me realise that love was just not something that only happens in movies, that it does happen in real life too. Everyctime he used to come back after meeting Hyunjin, he used to have the biggest grin on his face and the lovestruck look in his eyes.” He paused as he saw the doors open and Chan walked in, meeting his gaze, “I am so proud of Jisung for doing something I didn’t have the courage to do. To let himself fall in love.” He breathed out before looking at the newlyweds, “What Hyunjin and Jisung have is something so beautiful and out of this world, and they really are a model couple for all of us. To Hyunjin and Jisung, best of luck and always stay happy like this.” He finished, smiling at the cheers for the happy couple, before walking down the stairs, trying not to look at Chan who he knew was staring at him.
Once Minho had finished eating and had watched Jisung and Hyunjin dance their very first dance as a married couple, he decided to head back to his room and take a nap. He was feeling extremely fatigued since he didn't sleep well the last night and the only man who was willing to dance with him was not on good terms with him now anyways.
He was about to leave when Jisung called out to him, in that whiny tone of his, "Minhooo." Jisung headed towards him, “Me and Hyunjin are throwing a small get together just for us, the best men and the other groomsmen, so you better come to my room at 7pm sharp!” He ordered, as he latched onto his hand.
Minho groaned, “Another one?”
“This is the last one I promise. After this, I would be too busy with Hyunjin anyways and wouldn’t be able to party.” Jisung batted his eyes at him before pleading again, “Pleaseeee.”
“Fine..” Minho sighed dramatically, “But I am wearing whatever I want.”
Jisung looked conflicted at that, before letting out a resigned sigh, “Deal.” He muttered.
Minho went back to his room, his eyes wandering to the door next to his and wondering if the man was inside, since he didn't see Chan down either. He thought about what Changbin had told him. Should he go fight for it now? Or should he wait until it is a new day? Maybe give Chan some more time to cool down before he went and made him upset again.
He took a quick shower, feeling the excitement of the morning wear off him. He rummaged through his suitcase, finding a pair of baggy pants and a tight fitting green shirt and decided to wear it for the party. He had no mood for dressing up or dolling up, wanting to just sleep the night away instead. He yawned wearily as he stepped out of his room, his eyes wandering over to Chan’s door once again, before making his way to Jisung’s room.
“Well…I expected you to show up in a pair of sweats and a weird top, but you managed to do well without my help.” Jisung answered the door with a grin.
Minho rolled his eyes as he whined, “Jisung let me inside. This is what you are supposed to do at parties. Let the guests inside.”
Jisung laughed as he stepped back, letting Minho enter. “I was scared wondering if you would turn up looking like a wreck.”
“I love the confidence you have in me.” Minho chuckled softly as he walked in, noticing that Jeongin, Seungmin, Changbin and Felix were already there.
Chan was nowhere to be seen though.
“Hey Minho!” Changbin called out, waving him over.
Minho made his way to him, smiling at him, “Hello, Changbin. Nice to see you again.”
Changbin grinned at him before pointing at the balcony, “Chan is out there.” He whispered, as he suddenly started pushing Minho towards it.
Minho was startled by the sudden attack, as he tried to hold onto something, “I want to give him some time.” He whispered back harshly to Changbin, panicking at the man’s strength as he held onto the pillar.
“Time is nothing but an excuse.” Changbin hissed back, and Minho was thankfully saved by Jisung yelling out, “Chan come back inside. Dinner is ready!”
Minho pulled away from Changbin, glaring at the man before his eyes landed on Chan. The man’s curls were windswept and he had no makeup on, which made him look more endearing than usual and Minho could feel his heart trying to jump out of his mouth.
“Simp.” Changbin muttered before heading over to help Jisung set the table.
Chan’s eyes met Minho’s for a brief second, before looking away, just ignoring him.
Minho went and sat at the table, beside Changbin and away from Chan, trying to convince himself to get through the night and confront Chan later in the day.
He was digging into his fried rice when Jeongin spoke up.
“Chan, that speech was beautiful.” He said appreciatively, “It was so…raw.”
“Thanks, Innie.” Chan replied softly, his voice small, “I just said whatever I was thinking of at the moment.”
“You made me cry Channie.” Hyunjin said accusingly, but a fond smile was playing on his lips, “I didn’t know I did all that for you.”
“Well..I don’t say it out-front to you, but I did learn a lot from you and Jisung.” Chan shrugged as he took a bite of his chicken.
“Minho, your speech was beautiful too.” Felix said, laughing, “If you actually think about it, it felt like some parts of the speech weren’t even directed to Hyunjin and Jisung.”
Chan started choking on his chicken at that, and Seungmin had to pat his back, to help him.
Changbin started grinning mischievously as he nodded his head, “Right? Both speeches felt like it had some hidden message.”
“There was no hidden message.” Chan said, his lips pressed into a tight line. “Just a toast for my best friend.”
Changbin looked like he was going to retaliate and Minho had to step on his foot to make him stop talking. Chan clearly looked like he needed some time.
The rest of the dinner went by smoothly, with Jeongin announcing that he was going to colour his hair pink, something Jisung had prevented him from doing because he didn’t want his brother to look like cotton candy at the wedding and with Felix filming a video of them all, for memories and his TikTok channel.
The food was also very delicious and Minho found himself genuinely enjoying his time with everyone, regretting that he didn’t bother to get to know them earlier. Also realising, this wouldn't be happening if he had never met Chan. If not for Chan, he might have come up with an excuse and stayed in his room, avoiding everyone.
After they were done with their meals, Hyunjin brought out some wine for everyone to drink, moving over to the living room. Minho watched as Chan managed to squeeze out back onto the balcony and he felt the sudden urge he had felt back when Chan finished his speech, the urge to follow the man. He excused himself and walked out onto the balcony, finding Chan standing at the corner, looking up at the pale crescent moon that shone like a silvery claw in the night sky.
Chan turned around, his eyes widening as he saw Minho, before they narrowed, “What are you doing here?”
“I thought…you needed someone.” Minho choked out.
Chan let out a scornful laugh, “If you think I was going to be crying again…then you were wrong. I don’t need anyone here, least of all… you.”
Minho flinched at that. These words did hurt him, but he knew Chan was not to be blamed.
“Chan…" Minho replied, sighing as he kept his voice low. “I had to talk to you.”
"Okay. Talk then." Chan said, catching Minho by surprise.
He thought the man would push him away again, or cut him off but now that he was ready to let Minho talk, Minho found his mind going blank and just gaping at Chan.
"You said you wanted to talk, so talk." Chan challenged, closing the gap between them. "What did you want to say?"
"I… am…" Minho was kicking himself internally for not being able to say anything.
"That's what I thought." Chan huffed as he tried to push past Minho to leave.
Something stirred in Minho and he involuntarily held onto Chan's hand, pulling him back, "Don't leave."
"Tell me why." Chan demanded, staring at him.
"Chan… I didn't mean whatever I said last night."
Chan rolled his eyes as he tried to pull his arm back. "Just leave me alone, Minho."
"Look, I am not used to all these, okay?" Minho snapped, tightening his hold on Chan's arm, "I am not used to having such strong emotions about someone. I was busy being bitter over Jisung's wedding but then you came in and changed everything!" He looked away, letting out a noise of frustration before meeting Chan's glare, "You're the reason why I am like this now. How do you expect me to know that you're not this friendly with everyone else? That you were being like this only with me? That you really were not looking for just a good time? You could have still spoken about yourself despite me not asking you."
"Oh so it is all my fault now?" Chan retorted incredulously. "Do you know how painful it was for me? Because, unlike what you had said, I am not like this with everyone. Do you have any idea how painful it is to develop feelings for someone and then get shot down? To know that the man you thought you connected with, just thought so lowly of you? To recall and have the words play in your mind over and over again?"
Minho sucked in a deep breath, trying to calm himself down, trying to make Chan understand him, but also the pain in Chan's tone was stabbing at his heart, "Chan.. it is my fault. I am also wrong for judging you so quickly like that but I didn't mean it… I was just so confused and scared."
Chan continued to glare at him before visibly deflating, the energy just seeping away from him, "Okay. Then, tell me Minho." He inhaled deeply, "Why don't you want me to go?"
Minho knew this is where he should bring himself to confess, to tell Chan that he those strong emotions he had for the man was love. However, he knew that there was something he should do before confessing. He should explain to Jisung about the internal conflicts that had been happening inside him. He needed to clear the air between once and for all before focusing on Chan.
"Minho, this is your last chance." Chan said, his voice a tiny whisper as if he was scared of hearing the answer. "I am making a promise right now, that once I leave Hawaii, I am going to forget you."
Minho looked up at him, his heart pounding so loudly that he was sure Chan could hear it as well, "Because… I…" He hesitated as he stared at where Chan's hand was still in his. "I love spending time with you."
Chan was quiet for a moment, before nodding, letting out a soft bitter laugh, "Well, you probably can find someone else to spend your time with then." He tugged his hand away, before walking past Minho back into the room.
Minho stayed outside for a while, trying to calm his racing heart down. He was frustrated, mostly with himself for not being able to confront properly but also with Chan for leaving him behind.
He felt stupid for having missed out on his chance to talk to Chan and clear things out. He heard the swoosh of the curtains behind him before someone entered.
"You okay?"
It was the man he wanted to speak to.
Jisung was here.
"Yeah…" Minho turned to smile at him, the smile not reaching his eyes, "Everything is fine."
"Seriously Minho…" Jisung sighed, looking like was contemplating whether to say it or not, "I saw Chan leave just now, looking upset and I know what happened that other night. Are you guys still not on good terms?"
Minho chewed on his bottom lip as he leant back against the railing, his mind was a mess, half of the thoughts were about how he shouldn't talk to Jisung about this right on his wedding day while half of his thoughts were about how he needed to get this done and over with. He knew the longer he waited, he was hurting Chan more.
"Jisung… There's something I have to tell you and I think I need it off my chest now.” Minho said finally.
Jisung looked even more concerned as he took a few more steps closer to him, “Minho…what happened?”
Minho let out a sigh slowly, ruffling his hair as he spoke, “The reason why I was so antsy about your wedding was because…” He hesitated, but continued as he saw the look of worry in Jisung’s eyes, “Because I thought I had feelings for you.” He breathed out.
Jisung stared at him for a moment, frozen on the spot before shaking his head, “Minho…what?”
“Look, we had been friends for so long and I don’t know…I think I was jealous and hated myself for not telling you about my feelings…” Minho paused to look into Jisung’s eyes, “But when I met Chan, things changed. I realised that I was not in love with you but I was scared of losing you even as a best friend. Chan…made me realise that having feelings for someone is actually more intense than I thought.”
Jisung looked speechless, his face struggling to absorb all these information that was thrown at him, before his eyes clouded with sadness.
“Minho…” Jisung sighed, “You know you would never lose me right? You are my best friend no matter what, and I would never replace you.”
“Thank you Sungie…” Minho trailed away, his heart thudding against his chest, yet there was a weird sense of relief floating over him. Chan was right as usual, talking about it does help.
"You said Chan made you realise having feelings for someone is more intense than you thought, what does that mean?" Jisung asked softly.
Minho stepped away from the railing, crossing his hands in front of him, "I can't bring myself to say it Jisung...but I think I am feeling what you felt when you first saw Hyunjin."
Jisung was speechless for a few seconds, his mouth opened to a little 'o' before a grin started forming on his face, "See?" He shouted excitedly, Minho gesturing his hands wildly at him to quiet down, "I know you liked him but this was even better. Is it Love?"
"I can't really explain it." Minho sighed sadly, "I wish it didn't happen but I got goosebumps looking at Chan and those same weird sensations you said happened to you, happened to me with Chan."
"Awww Minho." Jisung cooed, "Well this is good news, why are you both still sad then? Aren't we all supposed to be out there celebrating and planning your wedding?"
Minho choked on air as he stared at Jisung incredulously, "Jisung pls." He scrunched up his eyebrows as he continued, "I had to get all this off my chest to you first. Also I think he's not really in the mood to listen."
"Well it is too much to absorb." Jisung agreed with a shrug, "Anyways you have the whole week to make it up to him so make good use out of it."
"Yeah…" Minho sighed, knowing that if we just went and talked to Chan now, they could end up fighting even more, making things worse. Both of them are tired, and maybe a good sleep could help.
"Should we go out now?" Jisung asked and Minho nodded as he followed him out.
Minho noticed that Chan was nowhere to be found and before he could ask someone, Changbin popped up beside him, startling him.
"He left just a few seconds ago." Changbin stated, matter of factly.
"I didn't ask." Minho replied bluntly.
Changbin just shrugged, smirking at him, "But you wanted to."
Minho shook his head, smiling internally. Changbin had been a great help anyways and he decided to go back to his room too. It was getting late and the fatigue was too much for him.
He said his goodbyes to everyone before walking back to his room. He hesitated outside his door, staring at Chan's door, wondering if he should just go for it but decided against it.
New beginnings should happen on a new day right?
He sighed heavily as he entered his room, welcoming the warmth of his bed.
The light of dawn seeped into Minho's room, followed by the sound of people outside on the corridor. Minho rubbed his bleary eyes as he woke up, blinking rapidly before checking his phone. He got off his bed, walking over to the window. The blue sky was dotted with fluffy white clouds that drifted lazily in the gentle breeze.
It seemed like a beautiful day to just hang out and do some activity, Minho realised as he thought about Chan.
His heart immediately started thudding against his chest as he thought about the other man. Today was the day he confessed and fixed the mess between them.
He thought about the look in Chan's eyes when had told him it was his last chance, and it sent a sharp pain down his heart. Chan didn't mean it right?
Minho took a quick shower before heading down, his eyes searching for Chan. He caught sight of Hyunjin and Jisung in a corner engaged in a serious conversation and Minho headed towards them.
"Hey guys. Did any of you see Chan?"
Both Hyunjin and Jisung turned to look at him, worried.
"Well… we haven't seen him, but he sent me a message." Hyunjin said, fidgeting with his fingers.
Minho felt the sense of incoming dread as he asked, "What did he say?"
"He said he is going back home." Hyunjin sighed exasperatedly.
Minho was stunned for a moment, before responding, "Going home?"
"Yeah this was his message." Jisung said as he showed him Hyunjin's phone.
On it was a message from Chan.
"Hey Jinnie! I'm sorry I couldn't stay long but I got work to do, and I need to go back home. I will make it up to you and your husband once you guys are back. Have fun!"
Minho felt his blood draining from his face as he realised that Chan meant he was going back to Seoul, which meant he wouldn't be here. There was no more chance for him to redeem himself.
"Why don't you want me to go?"
Minho remembered how Chan had asked him this last night, however he never knew there was a deeper meaning to it.
"He's lying. Chan doesn't have to go back home to do work." Hyunjin said, "That man is a producer, he can produce songs whenever and wherever he wants to.”
Minho’s heart did a flip as he heard about Chan’s occupation for the first time, recalling when Chan accused him of not knowing anything about him.
He really needed to fix this.
“Then why did he leave?” Jisung asked, “Especially after Minho confessed to him and wanted to make things right?” His forehead was scrunched in confusion, and Hyunjin’s eyes widened.
“What?”
“Minho likes Chan.” Jisung explained calmly, “They kind of had a fight but Minho confessed and Chan just ups and leaves? Without telling us?”
Minho could feel Hyunjin’s stare boring a hole through him as he cast his eyes to the floor.
“I think there is a reason why Chan left then and it is not work.” Hyunjin said, through pursed lips, still glaring at Minho.
Minho started coughing, tugging at his collar awkwardly, staring at, "Jisung… I… I haven't told him I was in love with him yet… I had to talk to you first."
"You didn't tell him you're in love with him?" Jisung exclaimed incredulously, his eyes wide in disbelief.
"Love is a strong word." Minho mumbled, trailing away as Hyunjin fixed him with another glare.
"Minho! Come on." Hyunjin rolled his eyes, "Do you love Chan or not?"
"I think this is something I should be telling him first." Minho stated as he took his phone out and started searching the timings for flights back to Seoul.
"I thought you told him, Minho." Jisung sighed.
"I didn't, okay? And god, now it makes sense." Minho ran his hand through his hair, tugging at it, "He said that it was my last chance. I didn't expect him to be serious."
"Chan can be pretty serious when he wants to be." Hyunjin shrugged. "Now things are falling in to place. He told me last night that there was nothing as painful in the world than an one sided love." He groaned as he started rubbing his face, "I thought he watched a sad romantic movie. I can't believe I was not there for my best friend when he needed me."
"It was all my fault, Hyunjin." Minho said softly, "I hurt him."
"And I would totally hurt you for that but I wouldn't just for Jisung." Hyunjin said menacingly.
"What do I do now?" Minho asked, feeling defeated, "The next flight is in like 45 minutes."
"We can get to the airport within an hour, less if we speed up." Jisung said as he started heading to the exit, "Let's go stop him from taking that flight."
"Oooh an airport chase." Hyunjin cooed, his eyes softening and lighting up, "So romantic."
"Hyunjin I love you but this is so not the time." Jisung groaned as he increased his pace.
Hyunjin pouted his lips, following Jisung to where he had parked his car.
"Let me drive." Minho requested as he reached out for the keys.
"Minho please take note this is a rental car so you can't go and get it damaged." Jisung warned.
Minho ignored him as he snatched the keys from Hyunjin, getting into the driver's seat and starting the car.
Hyunjin and Jisung got into the backseat, staring nervously at Minho as he reversed the car out of the parking lot.
"Careful, Minho." Jisung mumbled again as Minho sped into a lane.
They have only 30 minutes left now and Minho knew this whole thing was ridiculous. He had no idea how airports work, will they even allow him inside without a passport. All he knew was he had to get there and stop Chan from taking the flight.
"This is all my fault." Minho muttered, feeling his head starting to throb.
Hyunjin sighed as he leaned forward and placed a hand on Minho's shoulder, "Don't be too hard on yourself. Having new feelings could be scary sometimes. I know I should still be mad at you but I really hope you guys can fix everything."
"Yeah..." Jisung agreed, "People make mistakes but everyone needs another chance."
"Chan is just hurt now, but he will definitely see how sincere you are." Hyunjin continued, reassuring him.
Minho felt slightly better, until another concern popped up in his mind. “Do you think I can enter without a passport?” He asked as he switched lanes.
“No, you can’t.” Jisung answered, “I have no clue what we are doing here actually.”
“You can say you left something very important with Chan!” Hyunjin exclaimed, “Like…ooh ooh! Your heart!”
“Hyunjin!” Jisung laughed, “That was smooth, baby!”
Minho groaned as he sped up even more, knowing he wouldn’t be able to last another minute with these two romantic saps.
He finally managed to reach the airport, and saw that the flight had 15 more minutes left to take off. He got out of the car as soon as he parked it, and started running towards the entrance, with both Hyunjin and Jisung hard on his trail.
Minho could feel his chest hurting as he tried to catch his breath, staring at the screen that showed the timings for all the airplanes.
“I don’t think you can go in though, Minho…” Jisung said hesitatingly. “You need a ticket and your passport.”
“Well as you can see, I have neither but I need to stop Chan from leaving m-” He stumbled over his words, before continuing, “Leaving us.”
There was silence until Jisung decided to break it, “If you think about it, it is a Fight or Flight situation." He said, a grin slowly forming on his face.
Minho and Hyunjin stared at him, their eyebrows scrunched in confusion.
"Because you know, you have to either let Chan take his flight or you fight for your relationship with him." Jisung casually explained, looking extremely proud of himself.
There was another momentary lapse of silence that was followed by Hyunjin letting out an extremely loud laugh as he patted Jisung on his back, "You're a genius." He laughed, his eyes watering and Minho was feeling flabbergasted at this point.
"You're so lucky that you married someone who thinks you're funny." Minho mumbled as he turned to stare at the screen, looking for the flight that was going to Seoul.
"Oh look, I think it's that one!" Hyunjin exclaimed, pointing at the screen. Minho felt his heart drop as he saw that the boarding had already started and it was going to take off soon. He took a step back, before running towards the entrance.
"Minho!"
He heard Jisung call out from behind him but he didn't pay any attention. All he knew was he had to stop Chan taking the flight no matter what.
He felt his lungs burning for oxygen as he reached the entrance, his heart sinking even lower as he realised there was no way they were going to let him go inside.
“Hello.” Minho panted, “My friend left something behind and I have to go in to give it to him."
"Sorry sir." The official told him, "You can't go in unless you have a ticket and show us your passport."
"But it will take only a minute, please, it is important." Minho pleaded.
"Sorry, it's part of our protocol. You can't go in."
Minho checked his watch and saw that it had already passed the take off time, meaning that he was late and Chan was gone.
He stepped back slowly, feeling his throat closing up and knowing very well he screwed up as he ran his hand through his hair in frustration.
"No… no'' He muttered to himself as he saw Jisung and Hyunjin catch up to him.
" What happened, Minho?" Jisung asked, as he tried to catch his breath. Behind him, Hyunjin was taking his phone out, frowning as he saw the screen.
"He's gone." Minho breathed out, feeling the coldness spreading inside his body.
"It's fine Minho." Jisung tried to reassure him, "You can still meet him in Seoul and tell him. He is very understanding, it's going to be okay."
"No it's not okay." Minho retorted as he clutched onto his hair tighter before letting go, "He made it clear that once he leaves Hawaii, he was going to forget me and nothing would change that. He made a promise about it." Minho could hear a tremor in his own voice as he spoke. The realisation that he was never going to see Chan again. How Chan said he was a man who never breaks his promises.
"Minho… people say things when they are angry. He didn't mean it." Jisung soothed him softly.
"I can't believe this." Minho mumbled, as he pinched the bridge of his nose, "I can't."
Behind them, Hyunjin was talking on the phone but Minho was too worked up to listen. He screwed up one of the best things that ever happened to him.
He was lamenting in his own sorrow until a line from Hyunjin's conversation caught his attention.
"Where are you, Chan?"
How was it possible for Chan to call Hyunjin when he was on a flight?
Hyunjin looked confused as he muttered something else before hanging up.
"Was that Chan?" Minho asked, rushing towards him, "What happened?"
"Uhm…" Hyunjin trailed away, looking at his phone before shaking his head to himself and this was starting to worry Minho.
"Is he okay?" Minho asked him, his throat straining due to the pressure.
"Why don't you ask him yourself?" Hyunjin asked as he pointed over to a direction with his head.
Minho turned to look slowly, his heart starting to do cartwheels now as he saw Chan coming out of the gates and heading towards them. God was truly great.
Something was not right though.
Chan seemed a bit wobbly on his feet and in a daze as he came closer. Minho stepped away from Hyunjin, taking a few steps back so that Chan wouldn't see him first.
"Chan, what the hell happened?" Hyunjin asked as Chan reached and slumped against Hyunjin's side.
"Hyunjinnie…" Chan whined slowly, "I think.. I think I'm... drunk?"
"You don't drink!" Hyunjin exclaimed as he held onto Chan and turned him so he was facing him, “What the fuck Channie?”
There was no way Chan was drunk right? The man said he never touched a drink.
Minho stared in disbelief as Chan’s eyes widened, staring at Hyunjin before bursting into giggles, “Our best friend telepathy must be strong huh? You knew I was going to be in trouble and came to rescue me!”
Okay. Chan was drunk.
“Chan…” Hyunjin trailed away, his eyes flickering over to Minho for a brief second, “We actually came here because of someone.”
“Who?” Chan asked, before letting out a hiccup and groaning, “Argh…I never will understand why people love drinking.”
“Why did you drink Chan?” Jisung asked, his tone laced with concern.
“Well…” Chan mumbled, and Minho had to strain his ears to hear him. “I was feeling really sad about what happened with your friend.” He said, averting his stare to the floor, “And I just wanted one drink. I went to the bar, looked at the cocktails and there was one that sounded very safe. It was some tea.” He sighed as he looked up at Hyunjin and Jisung, his lips pouting, “I didn’t know I could get drunk with one tea.”
Hyunjin brought his fist to his forehead, massaging it as he asked, “Channie…was it by any chance called Long Island Tea?”
“Yes!” Chan exclaimed happily, “See! We are really best friends!”
“Channie…that drink has a mixture of four alcohols and this was your first time drinking. No wonder you got drunk.” He looked at him worriedly, “Let’s just go home okay?”
Chan nodded his head and started to follow Hyunjin until Jisung cleared his throat.
“Are we forgetting something here?” Jisung asked, staring at Hyunjin and Chan before pointing over at Minho.
Chan turned slowly, his eyes meeting Minho’s and Minho could see an array of emotions flickering through his eyes, ranging from surprise to happiness to sadness and finally, anger.
“Why are you here?” Chan asked angrily. “Hyunjin, let’s leave please.”
“Chan…” Hyunjin began softly, “We came here because of Minho. He wanted to stop you from leaving.”
Chan let out a gasp before stepping away from Hyunjin, pointing an accusing finger at him, “You are a betrayer.”
“Chan please. You need to listen to me first and then after that, I won’t disturb you anymore.” Minho cut in, knowing very well he might not get another chance after this.
“What do you even have to say that will make it better?” Chan asked him. "Your chance got over last night."
“I fucked up.” Minho said solemnly.
"No shit." Chan deadpanned, taking a deep breath before clicking into his rant mode, "Everything is your fault. Look at what you made me do. I missed my flight because I was drunk. Was hurting me before not enough and you just had to do it more?"
Minho inhaled in a deep breath before taking a step closer to Chan, “Just…hear me out. Please.” He begged, his eyes staring into Chan's beseechingly.
Chan was quiet, still frowning at him.
"I made a mistake, but I have to tell you all this and after that, if you still want, I will leave you alone." He sighed before pleading again, "So please."
Minho could see Chan’s eyes soften slightly, taking that as his cue to begin.
“Chan look…I have been an idiot. But, I couldn’t figure any of my emotions out. I have never been in a relationship because I just thought I didn't have time or the energy for all that. I was upset for most of the wedding because well… you know.” He sighed as he ran his hand through his hair agitatedly, “I was scared okay? I was just a sad idiot being sad until I met you. Even though I was inebriated on the flight, somehow, I felt so comfortable with you, enough to share my feelings with you. And then when I saw you here…I was terrified in the beginning but then I found myself actually enjoying it with you, wanting to spend more time with you.”
“You said I was just following you around. So, how can I believe this?” Chan said softly, his eyes averting to the floor.
Minho took another step closer, feeling relieved that Chan didn’t step back, “You know how you told me Hyunjin described love as ‘a cold hush quieter than the last sigh of a cold flame slowly burning out in the frozen winters of a tundra falling over your soul causing goosebumps to erupt on your skin'”?
Chan nodded softly, as Hyunjin chuckled at the back before exclaiming, “Hey you actually memorised my words!”
Minho ignored him as he continued. “Well, that happened to me that night when we slept together, also when we were sitting on the rocks, and… while we were dancing…I also realised something else.”
“What?” Chan asked, his tone hushed.
Minho turned to look at Hyunjin and Jisung who were just staring at them abashedly, making him feel self conscious.
“Go on! You are doing well.” Jisung encouraged him as Hyunjin nodded his head happily.
“Guys…do you mind?” Minho asked them, and they looked disappointed as they stepped back, giving Minho some privacy with Chan.
“What did you realise?” Chan asked again.
Minho scratched his head absentmindedly, “That…I wanted to dance all my dances with you.” He finished awkwardly.
Jisung hooted from the back as Hyunjin shouted out, “That was smooth.”
Minho groaned as he turned to glare at them, “Guys. Please?”
They booed him before walking away, sulking to themselves.
Minho turned back to Chan, continuing, “After we slept together…I realised I wanted to stay in bed with you forever…not just sex but you know…cuddling and staying in each other arms forever.” He paused for a moment, letting Chan absorb all this information in his drunk hazen brain. “Chan, I got scared that night…I rushed out because everything was going too fast and then…I said all those stupid things because I was scared.” He placed both his hands on Chan firmly, “I didn’t mean them, but I mean the following words I am going to say with all my heart.”
Chan was looking up at him, his eyes confused, and his cheeks pink and Minho was certain of the feelings he had been having for Chan now.
“I love you, Channie.”
Chan’s face remained blank and it took like a whole minute for this statement to hit him, as he let out a loud gasp.
“I never believed in all this love and stuff until I saw you. I was so confused and terrified but now nothing had made more sense than this. You are everything I never dreamed of but I think that is what makes you special to me. I really do love you.” Minho confessed as he took another step closer, closing the distance between them.
“Minho…” Chan breathed out, “You really hurt me, you know?”
“I am so sorry Chan…this is why I need you to come back with me, give me one more chance.” Minho pleaded.
Chan looked conflicted as he contemplated, and Minho brought a hand up to cup Chan’s cheek, “I know it is hard for you to believe me but let me prove myself…” He trailed away slowly as he leaned in, pausing for a moment before pressing his lips against Chan’s softly. When he didn’t feel Chan push him away or back away from the kiss, he pulled away to look at Chan, whose eyes flickered open.
“I…I… Minho…” Chan whispered, looking away, “I don’t know how either, but somehow I fell for you. Maybe, it was when I saw you on the flight, or how it felt so right being with you…call me a cringy fool but I fell in love with you as well.” He looked embarrassed as he continued, “And I am not like this with everyone, I can assure you.”
Minho chuckled as he leaned in to kiss Chan again, “Please forget everything I said that night? I was stupid.”
“I will try but there is no guarantee.” Chan said, but he gave him a smile, and it gave Minho hope that everything was going to be okay.
“So….” Minho asked, trailing away, “What now?”
“Well…I think I need a nap.” Chan said before whining, “Why do you guys even drink? It is horrible.”
Minho laughed, as he saw Chan’s nose scrunch up, “You can sleep in the car.” He threw his arm around Chan, guiding him to where Hyunjin and Jisung were waiting. “By the way, Chan?” He asked.
“Yes?”
“Do you need me to repeat everything I said here once you wake up? So that you will remember?”
Chan hummed for a moment, thinking about it, “That would be great.” He smiled.
“And oh! Also, Chan?” Minho asked again.
Chan sighed tiredly, “Yes Minho.”
“This time, you can drool on me.” He laughed softly.
Chan replied by giving him a punch on his arm.
Yes everything will be alright now.