Archive of Our Own ^beta

Junho has a problem.

And this problem has a name - Kim Minjun.

When Junho got transferred to another FBI office seven months ago, he had no idea that would mean his life would take such a turn. Namely, becoming the partner of a certain agent, who would affect him in ways he never knew were possible. After all, Junho has always prided himself on being a stone-cold professional who valued his work over anything else. Emotions were just a distraction. And boy, was Kim Minjun a distraction. What an understatement.

Moving from Seattle to New York was a huge decision but a wanted and well-thought-out step. Junho was good. Actually, so good that at age 27, he was the best agent in the Seattle FBI office. Cracking cold cases left and right, quickly figuring out current ones – the sky was the limit. Solving cases was easy when you had no social life. However, Junho itched for a change, so when he learned about an opening in the New York office, he applied. There was something about New York that drew him, almost a gravitational pull.

He knew he’d be partnered up with one of the best agents; the rumour mill in the FBI was no different than in high school. Junho wanted to be the best of the best, so it was only fitting to get a partner who would also reach for the stars. Slackers didn’t interest him. What Junho didn’t know, though, was the duality of said agent. He was young, too (senior to Junho only by two years), and hot. Yeah, him being alluring was the greatest issue.

Actually, no. His duality. Right.

The fact that Kim Minjun was confident and sharp yet had the ability to give puppy eyes when he wanted something, a free cup of coffee, for example, being disgustingly cute. The fact that he was able to interrogate rapists and murderers, scum of the Earth, with the coldest of stares yet giggle like a fucking kid once out of the interrogation room. The fact that he had the ability to slip himself from dark- to light-mode on command, as if he had a mental switch. This type of duality was so confusing to Junho, and it was what drew him in, making his over-analysing brain short-circuit at times.

Junho was nothing like that, and it baffled him. Junho was the epitome of monochrome and that was enough to function properly. Until he met his new partner.

He most definitely didn’t expect the bubbly personality when he met Minjun. Most of the agents he knew were kind of rigid, not that open. But here, in New York, things seemed to be operating on a different level. That was a lot to take in at first. Junho cannot say he has completely accepted that just yet. A part of him is still trying to get accustomed to how things work here.

There’s a whole other aspect of being partners with Kim Minjun – he’s a goddamn corny flirt and seemingly quite open with whom he likes. And it’s no secret he doesn’t care about the gender, according to Taecyeon, a physical training specialist, who sometimes confuses the hell out of Junho with his weird antics, like placing cat stickers on other agents’ belongings under the guise of lifting everyone’s spirits, when he’s really just obsessed with cats and orders way too many stickers of them on Etsy. The big goof likes to message Minjun photos of celebrities while inquiring whom he would like to fuck, marry, or kill. Sometimes, Junho feels like he’s still in high school around them.

Nonetheless, the sad part about his partner’s wacky yet flirty personality is that Junho cannot tell when Minjun is being serious about his affections. It all seems to be just a game to him, and Junho cannot deal with this type of ambiguity. Minjun’s unfiltered confidence and whimsical nature triggers Junho, who is a repressed gay virgin. He has spent way too many years keeping his desires under the lid to be a cool-headed person, focused solely on his career.

That resolution cracked on one particular day three months ago, when he saw Minjun rolling up his white dress-shirt sleeves, while sucking on a popsicle behind the desk across from Junho, leaning back into his chair with closed eyes, moaning. The unexpected late spring heatwave and broken AC were conspiring against the thirsty agent.

It was a wonder Junho didn’t come in his black slacks right then and there. It took a lot of effort to counter the immense desire; he had to summon memories of a particularly repulsive past case that included a junkie cannibal and the gruesome evidence at the crime site. That moment was when Junho had learned his self-control wasn’t as amazing as he had thought it was. Minjun’s presence was dangerous to Junho, who tried his best to ignore his emotions.

So, yeah, Kim Minjun was a problem. An infuriatingly sexy problem Junho had no idea how to deal with. For the time being, Junho made a pact with himself to keep on ignoring his feelings because that’s what he did best. This immense infatuation was going to pass soon, right?

Junho exhales, watching Minjun talk through his presentation, running a hand through his copper hair while introducing their most recent case to the team – the Blood Cross serial killer. The press gave him that name due to the signature he leaves on his victims’ bodies: a drawing of a simple cross, made with the victim's blood. So far, they have eight victims.

Minjun rolls up his shirt sleeves again, as if knowing it does things to Junho: he never knew bare forearms could be so sexy. This is hell. Both the case and his partner’s charming presence.

***

“So, you’re going to meet Baby Lips,” Minjun declares, sitting on the corner of Junho’s desk after the presentation.

“Excuse me?”

“Our informant. I’ve met him a few times before, but I feel like you’re more his type.” Minjun grins. That doesn’t bode well.

“That doesn’t make me feel any better,” Junho voices out, rubbing his left arm protectively. “He’s your informant, you’ve met him before; what makes you think he’ll be willing to share information with a new agent?” Junho sips the lukewarm liquid in his coffee cup.

“Let’s just say the last time I talked to him, he didn’t take me rejecting his advances well. Also, he prefers a nice ass, which I don’t have.” Junho chokes on his drink. Was that a compliment? Also, who the fuck is Baby Lips and why is an FBI agent supposed to whore himself out for this informant?

Sure, the case they’re working on is beyond terrible, but catching a serial murderer whose victims are specifically gay men shouldn’t mean you have to offer your ass to an informant. Right?

“I’m not fucking Baby Lips whoever he is,” Junho deadpans, ignoring Minjun’s amused smirk as he taps a napkin at his ruined striped tie and white dress shirt. “And how the fuck is the FBI okay with their agents using their bodies for information?!”

“Dear Junho, you don’t have to take my words literally.” Minjun leans forward and touches the younger agent’s shoulder. “Just let him eat you with his eyes, extract the information, and we’ll be fine.”

“Still, it’s degrading.”

“I’m sure your virtue will still be intact once you’re done.” Minjun suddenly leans even closer, and his face is painted with a scheming grin. “Unless you're into big-bearded Latino men, I don’t judge.”

“Fuck off.” Junho throws the used napkin at him, which Minjun avoids swiftly. “When do I need to meet him?”

“At 9pm, Rosa’s take-away taco restaurant.” Minjun stands up. “Wear tight pants.” He ignores Junho’s furious glare and walks away, grinning.

***

Junho isn’t wearing tight pants when Minjun picks him up from home later that night. However, he cannot help the fact mother nature has gifted him with a naturally plump butt, and whatever trousers he picks usually are tight around his behind. No need to put additional effort into becoming eye candy for a sketchy informant with a terrible nickname like Baby Lips. Why did he agree to this again?

Junho chooses grey sweatpants and a black sweatshirt, something he’d never wear to work, but since it’s a sort of an undercover mission and he has to blend in, this ensemble should be fine. He fixes his black baseball cap and gets in Minjun’s black Mustang. Damn, even his car is sexy.

“Ready?” Minjun asks and leans over Junho to grab something out of the glove compartment, making the younger agent’s heart jump at the sudden close proximity. The moment is short, though, and then Minjun leans back with a small black bag in his hands, slender fingers unzipping it swiftly.

“As ready as can be, I guess.” Junho shrugs.

“I thought I told you to wear tight pants,” Minjun notes casually, fishing something out of the bag.

“Is that for you or for Baby Lips?” Junho dares to shoot back, something he usually avoids doing. Must be the soothing ambiance of Minjun’s car, radio playing something sensual.

Minjun actually halts his movement, glancing at Junho, eyes full of surprise. He looks like a deer caught in headlights for a second, and Junho’s amused that he’s the one who managed to leave Minjun speechless. What a nice change.

Minjun harrumphs. “So, he has a sense of humour, after all…” The corner of his lips turns upward, barely noticeable, but Junho has had enough time to study his face during their time together to notice any slight changes. “Lift your shirt up,” he commands, and just like that, their roles are reversed once again. Junho can feel his ears turning red.

“What?”

Minjun shakes his head, smiling softly. “Did you really think I’d let you talk to Baby Lips without any protection?” Junho almost expects to see a pack of condoms in Minjun’s hand, but it’s a listening device instead. Junho exhales inconspicuously and lifts his sweatshirt, exposing his torso. “Good boy,” Minjun’s voice drops an octave lower as he smirks, and Junho can swear he’s this close to experiencing an aneurysm.

The only reason he doesn’t pop an instant boner is the fact he jerked off like an hour ago. At this point, he will have to do so more often because being around Minjun, especially when he’s being insufferably flirtatious in such an enclosed area, is proving to be a very difficult task.

“I don’t need protection; I’m perfectly capable of going into this alone,” he says without thinking too much of it.

However, there’s a sudden switch in the mood. Minjun spares him any further embarrassment and attaches the sticky device to Junho’s sternum, putting a bluetooth earpiece in his own ear. Junho pulls the sweatshirt down, glad to finally be covered again. “Here, put this in your ear.” He passes Junho a tiny earphone, which he places into his left ear. He can swear he sees a glint of sadness in the older agent’s profile, and he cannot understand what had caused it.

Minjun speeds off, and the rest of their ride continues in silence, only the radio playing in the background. It’s odd seeing Minjun so quiet, but Junho doesn’t comment on it.

***

Junho orders a small plate of beef tacos and settles on a bench near the treeline. The take-away place is a cosy food wagon, decorated with fairy lights. It’s not too busy, so not all benches are occupied. The tacos are also actually pretty great, which is a bonus of this mission. Baby Lips doesn’t seem like a very punctual person, as it’s already close to 9.30pm. That grinds Junho’s gears a little, and he worries if the informant is going to appear at all.

“He’s late,” Junho mumbles, chewing on his food slowly.

“He’s always late.” Minjun’s voice speaks into his left ear. “Oh, I can see him. Good luck.”

Junho huffs and feels a large body settle down on his right.

“Wow, sugar, if I had known a snack like you would be waiting for me, I would’ve appeared much sooner.” A very low voice greets him, and Junho finally sees Baby Lips in all his glory.

He’s the definition of a dad-bod, unexpectedly tall, covered in a black mesh tank top, leather jacket and blue ripped jeans accompanied by black boots. He is bald, and his face is framed by a long black beard almost reaching to his bronze chest. He has tattoos, and Junho cannot not notice the outrageous pierced nipples.

Also, his lips. His incredibly plump lips which Junho doubts are natural. Honestly, he feels intimidated by this man, just the sheer size of him like he ate three regular-sized people. He wants to kick Minjun for not preparing him enough for this.

“Baby Lips, I assume?” Junho does his best to appear indifferent.

“The one and only.” He grins, reaching his hand towards the agent, which Junho shakes politely.

“Junho.” Thankfully, Baby Lips doesn’t hold onto Junho’s for too long.

“Where’s Minjun?”

“At home, probably,” Junho lies and stuffs the last piece of his taco into his mouth. They don’t want the informant to know Junho’s not alone. According to Minjun he’s not dangerous, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Especially when attempting to crack a complicated case like this.

The big Latino man seems to accept that answer and twists a little, so his arm is resting on the table while he’s facing Junho. “So, you’re here instead.” His dark brown eyes are intense, scanning Junho’s body with a laser-like stare. “Are you looking for a chubby bear daddy?”

Junho’s fucking glad he’s done with that last piece of taco because he may have choked to death at the unexpected proposition. “Uh, I’m here for information…” He reminds him tersely, praying to all deities that this doesn’t get any weirder than it already is.

“I can give you more than that, darling. You’re so pretty I’m almost hard just looking at you.” The hand on the table slides closer to Junho’s, and he starts panicking internally. No one has ever been so bold with him, and it’s unnerving when it’s a random person, an informant on top of that. “You’re a doll.” His suggestive smirk makes Junho tense.

Junho moves back fully voluntarily, attempting to keep his personal bubble intact. “I’m flattered, but you know why we’re here.” He has to remind himself that this is an important task; he cannot upset the informant because they still have a killer to catch, and they need whatever information they can get.

“Oh, I know you want information, but I think we could have so much more, you and I…” Junho gulps. He’s so not into this.

“Tell him you’re taken,” Minjun’s voice rings in Junho’s ear, like a lifebuoy.

“Sorry, but I’m taken, I’m very much in love with my partner,” Junho supplies immediately, thankful for Minjun’s quick thinking.

“Fuck, that’s unfortunate. I’m not a homewrecker.” Baby Lips sighs dejectedly. Relief washes over Junho as the latter leans back a little. “He or she?”

Junho licks his lips. There’s no point in hiding his sexuality if he’s completely honest with himself. What’s the worst that could happen? His conservative parents have already pretty much disowned him anyway. “He.” The reply comes out easier than expected.

“He must be one very lucky man.” The informant smiles sincerely.

Junho cannot help but think about Minjun. He shakes his head. It’s one-sided, clearly. “All of us want that monster caught; I know the community is terrified.” Junho says softly, finding a common ground with the huge man. Baby Lips frowns.

“He got my friend, Julio. I’ve known him for a couple of years. Nice soul. Such a terrible ending.” He leans forward onto the table, clasping his hands.

“You knew the victim.” Baby Lips nods. “Is that why you’re helping?” He nods again. Of course, it’s easier to become an informant when you’re personally touched by the tragedy.

“I’ve also seen the other victims at the gay club the general population isn’t really aware of.” His expression darkens a little as he glances at Junho. “Under normal circumstances I wouldn’t be talking about this club, but people are scared. I am scared.” Junho nods for him to go on. “The place doesn’t have CCTV cameras, so it’s easy to do whatever you want there. Some celebrities go there, too, solely for that reason. Very private. Also, not everyone can get in. However, I feel like the killer picks his victims there.”

“Why do you think that?”

“I saw one of the victims leave the club with a man. He was found dead the next morning.”

Junho sighs. That cannot be a coincidence. “Did you have a good look at the man the victim left with?”

“Not really, it’s quite dark there. He had a mask on since it was a themed night, Venice parade or some shit. However, I can tell you he has an impressive burn scar on his forearm, seemed to be a white man.”

“We need to get into the club…” Junho mumbles more to himself but Baby Lips catches onto it.

“You need an invitation. Since I'm a regular there I can get you one,” he offers.

“Can you get two?”

“For you and your partner?”

“Uh, yeah. We go in twos.” Junho nods.

“Who’s your partner? I need your names for the invitation,” Baby Lips explains.

“It’s Minjun. Get the invitation for me and Minjun.” Junho rubs the back of his neck, nervously. Thinking about going to a gay club with his ambiguous partner is a very interesting idea he hasn’t explored before. Even if it’s meant to be an undercover mission to retrieve information about the killer.

Baby Lips seems to misread his body language (kind of) and raises his eyebrow, clearly amused. “Oh… Is he your boyfriend? Did that weasel snag you? How? I need to know.”

Junho is uncomfortable as fuck at the assumption, but Minjun suggests ‘It’s fine, just tell him what he wants to hear’ in his ear, so, he commits to the act. Might as well let Baby Lips believe what he wants to believe (secretly, Junho wants to believe his own words, too). Also, that’s a great repellent for unwanted attention. “I mean, for starters, he’s hot.”

“That we can agree on,” he chuckles.

“He’s also kind, funny and hard-working. I like that about him. Although he can be annoying as hell, too.” Baby Lips laughs heartily, and Junho grins back at him. He wishes he could see Minjun’s face right now because all he can hear is a dissatisfied murmur in his left ear.

“Well, I’m bummed you’re off the market, but it is what it is.” The informant shrugs.

“It was nice meeting you, Baby Lips.” Junho stands up and throws the plate into a nearby bin.

“Likewise. I’ll send the invitation in a few days.”

“Thanks.” Junho waves to leave and doesn’t miss the lingering gaze on his ass.

***

The next couple of days are spent analysing the club they’re supposed to go to. They decide that a diversion is necessary to slip into the owner’s office to get the list of the people with invitations. Baby Lips thinks there must be a notebook with all the names, and one of those names may be the killer’s.

Junho heads to the office gym for his physical training evaluation. The area is Taecyeon’s domain since he’s the senior physical training specialist. Minjun should be there, too.

He finds them soon enough and the evaluation begins. Both of them start off with push ups, then move onto plank exercises, sprinting, and whatnot. Hip lifts while lying on the floor proves to be the hardest exercise to focus on because the way Minjun thrust his hips up brought only sinful thoughts to Junho’s brain. By the end, the agent duo was panting heavily, drenched in sweat in their FBI-issued t-shirts and gym shorts.

“Really good.” Taecyeon taps on his tablet. “Minjun’s core strength is a bit better. So, I’d suggest you work on that more, Junho.”

“Sure.” He grabs a towel and wipes his face. “Any suggestions on how to improve it?”

“Sex.” Taecyeon wiggles his eyebrows, and Junho throws the dirty towel in his face.

“You’re gross.” Junho hears Minjun chuckle. What a beautiful sound.

“Come on, Taec, we have his virtue to protect. The way Baby Lips came onto him, I thought he was going to explode from embarrassment.” Minjun grins, something benevolent about his expression.

“Can you stop, it wasn’t that bad.” The younger agent groans.

“If you say so…” Minjun winks at him, the action making Junho’s heart skip yet another beat. He’s too young to be experiencing arrhythmia. This man probably isn’t good for his health.

“Anyway, I was thinking about a three-round sparring session. To see how your combat skills are doing.”

“Sounds good,” Minjun agrees. Junho nods as well.

“Three rounds. Loser gets to play fuck, marry, kill.” Taecyeon grins like a Cheshire cat at Junho’s appalled expression. He knows Junho hates it.

“I’m definitely winning this,” Junho promises. He has never taken part in this absurd game and never will. What is this – high school?

“Hmm…” Minjun hums conspiratorially. “We’ll see about that.”

“Bring it on,” Junho says and launches forward.

***

Junho rolls on his back, panting, knees bent, feet on the floor.

2:1

He lost.

He doesn’t even have to look at Taecyeon’s face to know he’s wearing a disgustingly triumphant expression. “So…” the physical trainer begins gleefully while Minjun sits on Junho’s right, hugging his own knees loosely, swiftly averting his gaze from the younger agent.

Was he just staring at Junho’s exposed thigh skin? It must have been accidental, right?

Junho sits up as well and crosses his legs instead of overthinking. “What?”

“Steven Yeun, Tom Hiddleston, Dwayne Johnson.” Taecyeon stares down at him, expectantly, way too excited.

Junho exhales exasperatedly. “Fuck Steven Yeun, marry Tom, kill the Rock.” He thinks this game may be a little bit sexist, but then another question pops into his head. “Wait, why are all my options men only?”

“Aren’t you gay?” Taecyeon asks sincerely, no ill intent behind his question. Silence falls.

Junho thinks hard. He is gay, but he has never really come out to anyone except his family (Baby Lips doesn’t count, it was sort of an act), which didn’t end well. Only his sister was fine with it, but his parents showed disgust and discontent only. Sure, he still gets Christmas cards, but it’s so awkward between them he hasn’t seen them in years.

Maybe it’s the right time to come to terms with it. He has been so repressed for many years and maybe it’s time to actually voice it out again. Minjun seems to be very comfortable with who he is, so why can’t Junho do the same? These guys are not his homophobic parents, and they’ve become more than just work colleagues. There shouldn’t be walls between them, especially when they’re so open and non-judgemental.

“I’m so sorry. It’s completely not my place to force you to say anything so personal. If you don’t want to talk about it–” Taecyeon begins after a prolonged pause, clearly not wishing to make Junho feel uncomfortable. His genuine concern is heart-warming.

“No, it’s fine,” Junho interrupts and sighs. He might as well just get it over with once and for all. He can feel Minjun’s supportive gaze on his profile. “There’s really no point in hiding it. It’s not like I did that on purpose. I haven’t really come out to anyone but my family, which didn’t have a joyous conclusion, to say the least. My sister is supportive, though, so there’s that.” Junho smiles, but it doesn’t reach his eyes. He plays with the hem of his shorts. “I’m okay, I just don’t like flaunting it like it’s anything special. It doesn’t matter to me; my life isn’t going to change whether I keep it to myself or not.”

“But do you accept that part of yourself?” Minjun inquires gently, and Junho looks at his dark, understanding eyes.

“Still working on it,” Junho admits with a small smile, which Minjun reciprocates. It feels incredible to have someone who understands and supports him. Junho’s heart thaws.

“Good,” Minjun says, squeezing Junho’s bare knee briefly.

“Yeah, that’s great, and if you need any help with self-acceptance, I’m sure Minjun can help with that. It’s no secret he will enjoy anyone with two legs. Of human species, of course.”

“I don’t think you had to specify the obvious, Taecyeon.” Minjun glares at him, although the tone in his voice is playful. Then, he returns his attention to Junho. “He’s right, though, if you need to talk to someone, I’m all ears.”

“Thanks. I appreciate it.” Junho nods, warmth spreading inside of him. Perhaps being more open with people isn’t such a bad thing.

***

They have an actual disguise department at the FBI to prepare the agents for their undercover missions. It’s always an adventure to turn into someone else, and now it was Junho and his partner’s time. Tonight, they had to enter The Chamber of Secrets.

Yes, that was the title of the gay club Baby Lips has told Junho about. Of course, Taecyeon, the nerd, was way too amused by the title, and Junho had to walk away from him to spare himself from being attacked by Harry Potter universe trivia. Tonight, they had to up their visuals to blend in with the crowd.

Junho was given extremely tight leather pants, which were, weirdly enough, rather comfortable. His deep burgundy shirt was of silky flowy material and the cleavage outrageously deep cut, the top button resting below his sternum. The stylist wrapped a couple of silver necklaces around his bare neck and gave him elegant black boots to finish the look. He also had his dark hair slicked back and some eye makeup applied. The shimmery bronze eye shadow and black kohl made his eyes pop.

So, when he saw himself in the mirror, his jaw dropped. If he were completely honest with himself, he looked amazing. He may even consider learning how to do eye makeup if that’s what it takes to make him look so effortlessly sultry. Apparently, he wasn’t the only one in awe as the stylist hummed at her handiwork, both of them staring at the ethereal image in the mirror.

“Wow, I knew you’d look like a hot Kpop boy when properly styled.” She grins, satisfied.

“I mean, you’re a very talented stylist, Erica.” Junho chuckles, still eyeing himself up and down.

“Don’t be modest, you’re a handsome guy to begin with. It was easy to elevate your look.” She winks and Junho looks away bashfully. He isn’t really used to receiving compliments; they somehow feel like a lie.

There’s a knock on the door and Minjun’s sonorous voice rings as he enters the small room. “I’m done. Are you–” He almost trips but manages to hold onto the door handle when his eyes land on Junho.

And Junho would laugh at that except his own knees almost buckle when he sees his partner all dolled up.

Black suede boots; black ripped skinny jeans; black mesh shirt that leaves no room for imagination, exposing Minjun’s delicious muscles, which Junho has never seen before. He has always believed there must be something glorious beneath his usual office attire. Minjun also has a goddamn leather choker on his throat, and that alone makes Junho’s belly burn with desire. He never knew he had a thing for chokers but here he is, salivating at the thought of pulling at the thing with his teeth.

And his face... His dark eyes framed by black eyeliner, smudged slightly to create a mysterious, smoky look. Minjun’s copper hair is styled up, exposing the forehead completely, somehow making him appear more open to things. The man looks like a sin on legs.

But what hits Junho the most is his partner’s expression. There’s lust in his opaque orbs, and Junho shudders slightly at the thought he’s the reason Minjun’s actually speechless for once, that Junho is the reason for his current state. Minjun always has a snide remark at the ready, but now he just gazes at Junho like he is the eighth world wonder.

Junho doesn’t miss the way Minjun’s Adam's apple moves as he swallows. This magical moment seems to go on for ages until the stylist interrupts their intense staring. “The club is going to be all yours, boys. Maybe we should’ve toned down on the sex appeal.”

Minjun is the first to recover the gift of speech. He steps fully into the room, and Junho has to try really hard to not ogle at his devilishly attractive partner. “That was the point, no? Make us look as alluring as possible.” He grins, stealing a glance at Junho.

“I think the exact request was to make you look as gay as possible,” Erica notes playfully.

“I’m gay, but I don’t look like this on a daily basis.” Junho shrugs at the stylist.

“Maybe you should reconsider,” she quips, and Junho snorts.

“Agreed,” Minjun adds, a slight smirk on his face.

Junho licks his lips. It’s even harder to resist Minjun’s flirtatious nature when he looks like a sex god. “Come on, we have an actual job to do, remember?” Junho grumbles and Minjun rolls his eyes.

“How could I forget?” He sighs.

They’re on their way to leave the room when Junho glances back at the stylist. “By the way, putting effort into your appearance and looking hot has nothing to do with being gay. That’s a shitty stereotype. I’ve seen some questionable-looking gay dudes.” Erica laughs.

“Oh, I know.” She leans in and whispers. “You may want to grab a man repellent before you leave.”

“Ugh,” Junho groans and hurries towards Minjun in the corridor, eyes glued to his back muscles beneath the see-through material. His shoulders are so large Junho wonders how it’d feel to drape himself all over them. Fuck, how is he supposed to resist the temptation that is his partner? If there were someone who may need repellent, it’s Minjun.

Keep. Things. Professional. Junho exhales, catching up to the older agent.

***

The black van stops a block away from the club, hiding in a shadowy area. The plan is to enter the club, look around, see if they notice someone with a burn scar on their arm, and then move onto the main event of the evening – slipping into the owner’s office and taking photos of the guest invitation notebook. Cell phones are not allowed in the club due to privacy reasons, but the FBI wouldn’t be the FBI if they didn’t have nifty devices like a photo camera disguised as a lighter. Minjun checks it again and puts it in the back pocket of his jeans.

“Do you have the invitation?” he inquires, eyebrow raised.

“Yeah,.” Junho confirms, grabbing it off the small van desk.

Minjun nods and turns to the three agents sitting on the van bench. “Okay, let’s go over the plan once again.” He glances at his wristwatch. “Current time is 11pm. Junho and I will observe people for an hour. If we notice the suspect, we leave the club and wait for him to do the same, so we can follow him. However, that’s an unlikely scenario, so we’re focusing on the invitation list. Is the jammer ready, Jason?” The middle-aged agent nods, his short greying curls springing at the movement. “At 12am, you use the jammer to fuck up their internet network, and that’s when we get an opening to move into the office. The heart of the network is outside the building, so they will have to go there to fix the problem manually. It should give us about five minutes. Is everyone ready?” Everyone nods. “Let’s go.” The agent duo exits the van.

There’s a small rush of adrenaline coursing through Junho’s veins; he’s always preferred action over office work. Being undercover is one of his most favourite things about this job. He doesn’t know how this night will end but, somehow, Junho is sure they will not leave the club empty-handed. They’ve been preparing for this for the last couple of days, and he couldn’t be more ready.

The club is in a sketchy area, near the port. It doesn’t even have a signboard, and if not for Baby Lips’ tips on how to find it, they wouldn’t even suspect there is a club at all. They approach a small iron door, and a square latch opens immediately, loud bass escaping through the opening.

“Invitation,” a man’s voice demands, and Junho slips the envelope towards the small window where a hand is waiting for it.

The piece of paper disappears quickly, and the latch is closed. Junho glances at Minjun and he nods slightly, his expression a perfect mask of serenity.

After a few moments, the door opens. “Welcome to The Chamber of Secrets, gentlemen. Have fun,” says a bulky man, wearing all black, clearly a guard. The agents nod at him and enter the building, the bass becoming louder with each step.

The corridor is dark, red lights creating a mysterious ambiance. There are framed nude photos on the walls all the way into the main hall where the music is the loudest.

The duo reaches the main area and stops. The place is huge. Like Baby Lips said, there are platforms for pole dancers, even holograms of imaginary creatures for people with more specific tastes. The bar is decorated with blue LED lights, and it’s massive, fully stacked with various alcohol. The design has a futuristic vibe, with smaller holograms projected onto the actual bar. All of these projections require a brilliant network connection; thus, it’d be immediately obvious when they’re gone. It’s half of the club’s charm, and the owner would most definitely be inclined to fix the problem as soon as possible. Hence, the plan to use the jammer to mess with the connection.

Junho suddenly feels a hand slip into his, and it makes him look at Minjun, who has a soft smile on his face. “Boyfriends, remember?” Junho wishes it weren’t just for the cover. He squeezes Minjun’s hand back, nodding slightly. Fuck, he looks even more handsome in this dim lighting. So devastating. “Let’s get drinks?” Minjun offers.

“Really?”

Minjun leans in, his breath tickling Junho’s ear. “We cannot just walk around and stare at everyone’s arms, Junho. We have to sell the act of being regular club goers.”

“Fair enough.” Junho clears his throat. “Lead the way.” Minjun smiles at him and tugs his hand, walking him to the bar.

The place is packed, and Junho is hyper aware of the looks they’re getting. Minjun doesn’t seem to be bothered by that, but Junho isn’t used to being ogled at. Right, he had an extreme makeover that’s supposed to make him exude extra sex appeal. He almost forgot what he looks like now, and his reflection on the bar mirror reminds him of that.

They sit down at the bar, and Minjun orders drinks for them. When Junho sees him pay the tab, he protests it. “I can pay for myself.” He has to lean in to be able to talk to Minjun, the music is so goddamn loud.

“I’m sure you can. Just let me pretend it’s a real date.” Minjun grins ambiguously and takes a swig of his drink. Junho feels weak as he drinks his own colourful concoction. It’s surprisingly good.

They watch over the crowd, sipping on their drinks, and Junho accidentally makes eye contact with a very muscular blond, white guy, dressed like an elf or something, his hair reaching his waist. Legolas on steroids, basically. The man smirks and starts moving towards Junho, clearly intending to hit him up.

Fuck, Junho panics internally.

Junho slips off the bar stool swiftly and grabs Minjun’s hand, forcing him to do the same and earning a confused look from the latter. He then pulls his partner into an embrace, hugging Minjun’s waist. “Hug me,” he barks out, and Minjun complies, circling arms around the younger agent’s neck.

“What is it?” Minjun inquires curiously, their closeness making him press his cheek into Junho’s.

“I think I seduced someone accidentally. He was walking my way.” Minjun laughs at that, shaking in Junho’s hold. What a lovely sound against his ear.

“Is he still coming?”

Junho exhales, watching the disappointment spread across the man’s face as he turns the other way, clearly irritated. “Not anymore.”

Only when the source of his initial panic is gone, Junho notices how perfectly slotted he is against Minjun. He has to bite into the inside of his cheek to remind himself this is all just a ruse, and they are, in fact, working. This evening is getting more and more devastating.

Minjun doesn’t let go though. He smells really good. Does he bathe in an aphrodisiac or something? Junho closes his eyes, inhaling the sweet yet fresh smell. “We should move onto the dance floor; it will be easier to look at everyone.” Junho is almost annoyed that they have to look for the suspect, but he doesn’t protest the suggestion and allows his partner to grab his hand and move them to the dance floor. The sooner they catch that abomination of a human being, the fewer victims they will have to deal with, and the less the people will have to hear terrible news.

It’s not easy to ignore how close they are to each other; the dance floor is packed with people dancing and grinding sinfully against one another. His ass may have fallen victim to that uninvited experience a couple of times. The fact Junho hasn’t had sex is probably another contributor to his hyper awareness. Sure, he had fooled around a couple of times when he was questioning his sexuality in high school and college, but it never went any further than kissing. After all, being rejected by his own parents made him want to ignore that part of himself, too. It was one of the main reasons he became obsessed with his career, choosing to ignore and repress his feelings.

Now, being in this debauched place, close to the most handsome man he has ever known, was making him reconsider his life choices and his inner walls crumble.

Is it really that bad to let go and enjoy himself? Be who he really is? Why should he keep it all inside and not share? It’s painful, it’s crushing.

Seeing all the lively faces here makes him crave that freedom. He simply wants to be free of prejudices and enjoy his life. Is that too much to ask for?

Minjun’s arm wrapped around his waist feels right, and if it feels so right, it cannot be a bad thing, right? It wouldn’t make sense.

“Holy shit,” Junho exclaims suddenly, looking at a tall, slender man making out with another guy in the VIP area. “I fucking knew it.” Minjun quickly looks in the direction Junho’s gaze is pointed at. “That’s fucking Tom Hiddleston. I knew my gaydar wasn’t faulty.” Minjun’s amused laugh forces Junho look back at him.

“Are you going to ask for his hand now? You said you’d marry him.” Minjun reminds him of the fuck/marry/kill game Taecyeon basically had forced him to play. Junho laughs at that, slapping Minjun’s arm playfully, his hands finding a temporary refuge on the firm, mesh-covered biceps.

Both of them are still smiling, thinking whatever, and Junho feels himself gravitate closer towards Minjun, the latter’s grasp on Junho’s waist getting tighter. This feels so damn right.

Suddenly, lights flicker in the club and the music stops, holograms disappearing. “Fuck.” Junho hears Minjun exclaim as he glances at the wristwatch. It’s time to move.

There’s a commotion, people unhappy with the entertainment gone, but the agents don’t care about that as they move towards the restricted area, waiting for the head of the club to leave the office.

They nod at each other when a few moments later a man dressed in a white suit, followed by the security guard, rush out of the mustard-yellow corridor. They move quickly along the bright walls and warm lights until they reach the office door. Thankfully, it’s unlocked.

Minjun moves into the room while Junho keeps the door open, peeking to make sure no one is coming. Now the adrenaline rush is very real, seconds passing by both way too slowly and way too quickly. “Any luck?” he inquires, stealing glances at Minjun, who works his way through the piles of documents on the massive work desk.

“Not yet,” he huffs, opening desk drawers now.

Junho prays the list isn’t on the computer because they don’t have that much time. They’d assumed the list would be on paper because keeping things with sensitive information on a computer could be hacked remotely. The invitations were written by hand as well, so it was fair to assume the owner wasn’t too keen on relying on technology. When you own a private club like this, you have to make some unconventional decisions.

“Aha!” Minjun exclaims joyfully, and Junho knows he has found the list. He sees the older agent use his fake lighter-camera to take photos of the notebook contents and hears the music restart.

“Shit, you gotta be faster.”

“Almost done,” Minjun assures, and Junho exhales only when he puts the notebook back where he had found it, slipping the fake lighter back into his pocket.

They start walking quickly down the corridor, but then they hear someone walking towards them. There’s no other exit. They’re fucked, basically. To think there was only one corner left to get out of there… They need to do something.

Suddenly, Minjun pushes Junho to the wall. “Do you trust me?” Junho nods frantically. “Don’t freak out” is all the warning he gets before Minjun grabs Junho’s hands, placing one of them on his ass, the other on his chest.

Everything moves in slow motion after that. The way Minjun cups Junho’s face in his hands and kisses him with force, pushing into his body with his own.

The undercover mission is deleted from Junho’s brain momentarily. All he can feel now are Minjun’s lips on his and a very eager tongue sliding into Junho’s equally hungry mouth. And Junho allows it, welcomes it, because he’s been dreaming about this moment for months. An undignified moan escapes Junho’s mouth, the sound dying in Minjun’s mouth, sharing the wet heat between them fervently as the older agent grinds his thigh against Junho’s hardening dick. He gasps, because he can feel Minjun is hard as well, the pleasant weight of it resting against Junho’s hip.

Junho’s hands slip under the mesh shirt to feel the muscles he’s been wanting to touch for the entire night. He can feel Minjun shudder under his touch briefly, the latter’s hands grabbing a handful of Junho’s ass, and fuck does it feel amazing. The younger agent groans, tilting his head for a better angle to devour his partner’s mouth, fully enjoying the heat between them.

“Hey, lovebirds, this is a restricted area.” A rough voice pulls them from the splendid moment. The guard gives them an unimpressed stare.

Junho swallows, looking at Minjun’s profile. He looks as destroyed as Junho feels. His lips are glossy, slightly swollen from kissing Junho like a wild man. What a beautiful vision.

“Sorry, just wanted some privacy with my boyfriend,” Minjun says, grinning, and it does sound extremely sincere.

“Well, get a private booth then. We have plenty.” The club owner smirks, sauntering past them.

Minjun grabs Junho’s hand as they walk around the very grumpy guard.

They exit the club and hurry towards the van; Junho’s pretty sure his ears are still red, but at least his erection has subsided in the chilly wind.

The van door opens, and they jump in quickly, falling onto the bench. Curious gazes wait for the outcome of the mission. Only then does Junho realise how deeply they’re panting. He looks at Minjun and chuckles, the adrenaline leaving his body rapidly now that they’re done with the task of obtaining the list.

His partner grins and holds up the lighter in one hand. “Success.” Sighs of relief fill the vehicle.

***

The next couple of days are hectic. Other agents join in on narrowing down the suspect list, as the invitations were given in thousands: the full list contained over 6000 names. So, doing background checks on this many people was very time consuming, and time was something they couldn’t afford. The next day after the successful undercover mission, another body was found. The killer must have been in the club, but not everyone was wearing short-sleeved shirts, so missing the suspect and the infamous burn mark wasn't really a surprise. Still, Junho felt disappointed. Minjun seemed to share the sentiment if his grumpy expression was anything to go by.

They had also obtained CCTV footage from the nearby streets and businesses surrounding the club area. Thousands of names and hundreds of hours of videos. Junho felt like there was barely any time left to breathe, let alone to think about what was happening between him and his partner.

Despite everything, it felt like there was a major shift in their relationship ever since the undercover club mission. Or maybe it’s just wishful thinking on Junho’s part and those lingering gazes and accidental brushes of fingers were truly accidental on Minjun’s part. Honestly, Junho’s brain is mush. It took way too much energy to figure out what’s real or not, so he buried himself in work instead. Catching the murderous asshole was more important. He has already killed 9 men.

Junho grabs his laptop and heads to the break room, hoping his sore back would feel better on a sofa. Watching CCTV footage is straining not only his eyes but the rest of his body as well. The sunset is almost over when he settles onto the sofa, taking a swig from a water bottle. He turns on the floor lamp behind his back and presses the play button once again.

At some point, he gives in and shuts the laptop lid to close his eyes for a few moments, fully stretched on the sofa, a small pillow under his head. He’s just going to rest for five minutes.

Of course, that’s a mistake because his tired body has other ideas, and he falls asleep immediately.

There’s light pressure on his shoulder and a familiar voice calls his name softly, pulling Junho from his slumber. His eyelids lazily flutter open, and he sees Minjun squatting beside him, an amused smirk on his beautiful face. Junho would love to wake up to this face every day.

“Shit, what time is it?” he mumbles, rubbing his eyes.

“Almost midnight,” Minjun answers. “You should go home and rest. It’s been a long day.”

“Says you.” Junho snorts lightly. Both of them are guilty of overworking.

“Touché, Junho, touché...” Minjun acknowledges gently, his gaze fond. “Your hair is getting longer.” The older agent notes and his slender fingers skim against Junho’s forehead, sweeping lightly at his black bangs, which were resting right atop his eyebrows.

Their eyes lock in that moment, and the air between them feels charged. Junho swears he can see unveiled affection in those dark eyes before him; it can’t be just wishful thinking. He prays it’s not.

Junho gently wraps his hand around Minjun’s wrist and guides his partner’s hand towards his cheek, allowing Minjun to caress it; Minjun complies.

Junho sighs, content, and closes his eyes, relaxing into Minjun’s touch, the latter’s thumb brushing against the younger agent's cheek tenderly. Somehow, this feels more intimate than the searing makeout session they had a few days ago.

Junho feels pressure against his lips, and he almost stops breathing at how gentle the kiss is. He feels a shiver run down his spine accompanied by rambunctious butterflies in his stomach. There’s so much emotion behind it as Junho responds, massaging Minjun’s lower lip, tasting him slowly.

Automatically, his hand latches onto Minjun’s neck, pulling him closer, adding tongue to the kiss. There’s no rush between their movements though, both of them savouring the moment, tongues and lips melting into each other lazily. Hands down, this is the most brain-melting kiss he has ever received. At the club, it was rushed and desperate, but this one is genuine and more special.

So, when Minjun abandons his mouth, Junho whines in dissatisfaction, extracting a light chuckle from the agent.

Minjun presses his forehead to Junho’s, gazing at him kindly. “You’re very hard to resist,” he says quietly, and Junho blushes at the blunt admission, his ears burning.

“Then don’t.”

“Very tempting, but there has to be at least one adult in this situation.” He pulls back a little, still caressing Junho’s cheek. He actually looks tired, now that Junho takes a better look from up close. Still handsome, though.

“We should talk.”

“We should. But not right now.” Minjun smiles a little and stands up. “We still have a killer to catch. And get proper rest to do that.”

“Okay, dad.” Junho snorts and receives a sceptical glance from his partner.

“I’m not into daddy kink.” Minjun deadpans, and Junho almost splutters, sitting up hastily.

“That’s not what I had in mind! I’m not into it either!” His outburst forces a loud laugh out of Minjun’s lungs, making him feel even more embarrassed.

“Sure, Junho. Whatever makes you sleep better.” He teases and goes for the door when Junho throws a pillow at him, which he catches skilfully.

“Fuck off,” he grumbles.

“Good night to you too.” Minjun exits the room, laughing.

Junho groans. How is it possible to like and to hate someone at the same time?

***

Junho sips on his coffee, feet resting on his work desk, eyes glued to the double computer screen as he watches yet another CCTV video. Movement across the table makes Junho glance at his equally busy partner, who is going through the invitation list, checking names in their database, while chewing on his lower lip. He always does that when he’s deep in thought and extremely focused. Just yesterday, Junho had that lip in his mouth. He exhales, trying to focus on his screen.

Nothing out of the ordinary until he notices one of the victims walking with a tall, brown-haired, muscular man. The victim doesn’t seem to be very sober as the taller man helps him walk, supporting the smaller guy’s weight.

Junho puts his feet back on the floor and leans closer to the computer screen. The brown-haired man’s face looks strangely familiar.

When realisation hits him, Junho gasps. That’s Legolas on steroids but with different hair. “A wig…” Junho whispers to himself. Then, as the couple moves closer to the camera, he notices a prominent burn scar on the taller man’s forearm.

That’s it. That’s the killer. “Son of a bitch,” Junho declares, catching Minjun’s attention immediately. “I think I’ve found him.” He feels a rush of adrenaline, staring at Minjun’s confused face peeking over the top of his computer screen.

“What? The killer?”

“No, Waldo. Of course the killer. Come here.” Junho pauses the video as Minjun rushes over to him. “Look, it’s our victim. The bigger guy has the burn scar. Also, do you remember when I hugged you because I thought I may have seduced a guy?” Minjun frowns. “That’s him. He had different hair and wore a jacket that night. Minjun, he disguises himself with wigs. That must be our killer.”

“Fuck,” Minjun says, leaning on Junho’s chair with one hand, the other one on the table. There’s a deep crease between his eyebrows. “You may have been the next victim if we weren’t on the undercover mission.” He looks at Junho, something menacing behind his eyes. They know all victims had been drugged. Junho exhales shakily.

“Well, I’m not. We have to get him before he gets anyone else.” He licks his lips nervously, looking back at the screen.

“Right,” Minjun replies tersely. It’s like he’s extremely worried about that what if moment or something…

After the major discovery, they focus on the invitation list, and by the end of the next day they have the name.

Richard Stone.

***

They sit in Minjun’s charcoal Mustang, parked some distance away from the suspect’s house. There’s a van filled with agents a bit further so as not to raise any suspicion. Darkness is their friend right now since all they have to do is wait during this nerve-wracking stakeout.

Junho strokes his bulletproof vest absentmindedly, wrapped around his body tightly, covering the navy shirt. The anticipation is killing him. Minjun seems to be in a similar mindset, tapping fingers on his thigh and also wearing a bulletproof vest over a dark shirt. They’ve been waiting for two hours already.

“What’s taking him so long,” Junho mumbles. “He was supposed to be back an hour ago.”

“Traffic, maybe.” Minjun shrugs. “Could be anything. We’ll get him tonight no matter what, though,” he says with determination, and Junho nods. They’re so close to finalising this case.

Richard Stone has been on surveillance for two days ever since they got the name. Apparently, he’s a war veteran who was expelled for abuse of power. Now, he’s a guard in a hospital of all places. Talk about irony.

By all accounts, he appears to be a dangerous man, ex-military with a wide set of skills and combat knowledge. That’s why they’d chosen to apprehend him at home where there would be the least number of possible casualties. The area he lives in isn’t sketchy, but it’s not posh either. An average area for an average Joe. Except Richard isn’t an average Joe; he’s a goddamn serial killer with a clear vendetta against gay men.

Junho couldn’t help but wonder what kind of upbringing he must’ve had to become a despicable person like this. Being a war veteran most likely included some sort of fucked-up PTSD as well. As far as they were able to learn, the killer grew up in a strict Christian household and went straight to the military after graduating high school. Spent 8 years serving until he got kicked out. After that, he got hired in a hospital where he’s been working for the last 2 years.

His schedule was flexible, and it allowed him to take up extracurricular activities like killing people. This particular night, he was supposed to end his shift at 8pm. It was way past that, and it was grilling Junho’s nerves.

Then, they notice a red pickup truck driving down the road, and Junho’s body tenses because he knows it’s the killer’s vehicle. “Suspect on scene. Get ready,” Minjun announces through the earpiece.

They watch the car pull into the garage, automatic door closing behind the truck. Minjun nods at Junho, and they exit the car, other agents joining them as soon as they reach the two-storey house, guns drawn. Junho can feel his own heartbeat ringing in his ears when they approach the front door.

“FBI! Open the door!” Minjun yells as he bangs on the wood but gets no response. “Open the door, Richard!” he repeats.

It’s still quiet, no sign that somebody is going to open the door. “Breach the door,” he commands, and a pair of agents use a large battering ram to destroy the tough piece of wood.

They enter the house carefully, ready to sweep the first floor, when a series of gunshots fly right above their head. Junho falls to the ground immediately, hiding behind a corner on the right, resting against a stairwell, while Minjun falls to the left with the rest of them team in the dining room.

“Richard, we can end this peacefully or–”

“Fuck off.” The killer cuts off Minjun. “I’d rather die than go to jail.” Then, another set of bullets pierce the air and walls. Junho can hear Richard shuffling, and peering through the stairwell bars, he can see the man moving towards the back door.

“He’s escaping,” Junho warns Minjun and, without waiting for an answer, runs upstairs, knowing the house layout by heart. He’s not going to let the asshat get away, so his plan is to jump him from the second floor, since following an armed man amidst active shooting on the first floor isn’t an option.

The riled-up agent runs through the corridor and the main bedroom where he finds a balcony. He notices the killer still hadn’t made it outside, so he puts the gun back into the thigh holster and hangs onto the balcony rail, jumping down swiftly.

Right when he lands, the door opens wide, and Junho lands a solid kick on the man’s stomach, making him sway and hold onto the door frame for balance. There’s rage in Richard’s eyes when he stares at Junho. “You,” he hisses. “I almost got you that night.” He jumps toward Junho and swings at him, but Junho manages to avoid the fist in time by ducking down.

Then, he lunges forward and grabs the killer by the waist, pushing him into the wall with full force, the latter’s handgun falling on the ground upon the rough impact. The falling handgun actually fucking shoots when it lands on the porch floor, and Junho feels a sharp pain in his shin, making him scream in shock.

The next moment he finds himself thrown on his back, the killer straddling his hips and landing a solid blow on Junho’s jaw. He sees stars briefly.

The man is heavy on top of him, and he feels panic actually set in when Richard pulls Junho’s gun out of the holster and point it right at the shocked agent’s face. His entire life plays in slow motion during that one second.

But then, the sound of a distant gunshot reaches his ears. The next moment there’s blood splatter all over his face, while the killer succumbs on top of the stunned agent. It takes a few seconds for Junho to realise that, yes, he’s still alive and, yes, there’s a hole in the killer’s head, blood seeping through Junho’s vest and shirt.

Someone drags the dead body off Junho, and he feels frantic fingers touching his chest. He turns his head and sees Minjun kneeling right beside him. “You fucking idiot,” he snaps at Junho, anger evident in his face.

“Huh?” Junho wheezes.

“Don’t you fucking huh me. You almost died!” His grasp on the younger agent’s shirt tightens. He’s never seen his partner so full of rage. “What made you think acting heroic and going solo was a good fucking idea?!”

Junho swallows as he sits up. “He was going to get away!” He tries to reason.

“And you thought getting yourself killed was going to help?!”

“I wasn’t supposed to get killed. His fucking gun fell on the floor and magically shot my shin; that’s what threw me off!”

“What? You’ve been shot?” Minjun suddenly looks back at Junho’s leg where an evident pool of blood is getting bigger. “For fuck’s sake!” He looks around quickly and grabs a blanket off a porch bench, pressing it against Junho’s injured shin, making the latter yelp in pain.

“Can you be more gentle?!”

“Shut the fuck up!” Minjun yells back at him. “Did anyone call an ambulance?” A frightened agent confirms it’s on the way and the older agent huffs, closing his eyes, probably trying to focus himself on not killing Junho with his own bare hands.

A few quiet moments pass and Minjun opens his eyes, staring at his own bloody hands on Junho’s leg. “Do you know why I was without a partner?” he asks quietly.

“No,” Junho admits. He’s never asked anyone about it; he wasn’t really interested in that piece of information. It’s not that uncommon to change a partner.

Minjun exhales heavily. “She was killed on duty. Also had a knack for being a hero.” A solemn smile doesn’t reach his eyes. “It would seem I attract the type.” He purses his lips, still not sparing a glance at Junho. The sound of sirens approaching becomes louder.

“I-I didn’t know…,” Junho says softly, realising the reason behind Minjun’s anger. He had already lost one partner, and Junho may have been the second one. His actions really were irresponsible; they’re supposed to be a team. Guilt seeps through him. “I’m sorry, Minjun. I shouldn’t have acted alone.” He apologises quietly.

“Yeah, you shouldn’t have.” Minjun pinches the bridge of his nose between his thumb and forefinger. “I’ll wrap up everything. You’ll need a couple days off work.” He stares at Junho finally, perfectly knowing he’s about to protest the idea. “Don’t even think about it,” he warns and Junho sighs, keeping his mouth shut.

What a bittersweet conclusion to the entire case.

***

Over the next couple of days, the press is full of the news regarding the demise of the Blood Cross killer. Junho had even received a few phone calls asking for an interview and juicy details, which he had declined. The FBI has already given them the official press release, and Junho wasn’t going to give them anything additional. He was just glad to be done with the case. It was quite tiring.

Junho had initially been grumpy about taking a few days off. However, that mindset changed quickly, and he was pleased to finally be able to get proper rest. He didn’t realise how exhausted he was until he had the freedom to just lie around and do nothing, so Junho took full advantage of that.

Thankfully, the bullet didn’t get lodged in his shin, and it was an easy surgery, so the healing process was going well, painkillers doing the job wonderfully when needed. Nevertheless, there was a major drawback to not being at work. Junho missed Minjun’s presence badly.

They texted a little, but it was all very laconic, mainly Minjun inquiring about his well-being. Junho felt like the older agent was still pissed off, and rightfully so. The more Junho thought about his actions during the mission, the more he realised how reckless he was. He got too cocky in his skills; going against a much bigger man, who was ex-military, all by himself wasn’t right nor the smart thing to do.

What was even worse, his actions must’ve brought back some rather sombre memories to Minjun. Junho did a little research, as in calling Taecyeon, and asking more about what had happened with the agent’s previous partner.

Sarah graduated from the police academy together with Minjun. There was nothing romantic between them; however, she was like a sister to him, so losing her had quite an impact on the agent. Just like Junho, she acted recklessly during their last mission and was shot while trying to apprehend a drug dealer, who had a hidden gun in a pocket. That time, Minjun was too late to put a bullet through the offender’s flesh. The mere fact he managed to shoot Richard just in time had Junho cringing. It was a matter of seconds. Junho felt incredibly lucky. Stupid, but lucky.

God, he really needs to talk to Minjun. It’s Saturday evening, he should be at home. Junho pulls out his phone and texts him.

Junho [8:23pm] Hey, are you busy?

Minjun [8:24pm] No. Why?

Junho [8:25pm] Can I come over?

A few minutes pass before a nervous Junho receives a reply.

Minjun [8:32pm] Why?

Junho curses.

Junho [8:33pm] We never had a chance to talk.

Minjun [8:34pm] And you want to do it now?

Junho [8:35pm] Yes. I’m tired of waiting.

Minjun [8:36pm] Are you good to walk, though? How’s your leg?

Junho’s heart flutters at the expressed worry, but it doesn’t deter him from his mission to talk to Minjun tonight.

Junho [8:38pm] I’m fine. As long as there’s an elevator in your building, I’m good to go.

Minjun [8:40pm] Yeah, there is. I’m on the 7th floor.

Junho [8:41pm] Awesome. I’ll be there in 20.

Minjun [8:41pm] Okay.

Junho sighs. Finally, they’re going to talk. Properly this time.

***

Junho taps his white sneakers against the elevator floor, holding onto the metal rail and staring at his own reflection in the mirror. His grey jeans match the walls here, and the dark green sweater adds a nice colourful touch. He fixes his bangs one last time before exiting the small enclosure, butterflies making an appearance in his stomach as soon as he stops in front of Minjun’s door and knocks. He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t nervous; he’s never been to Minjun’s apartment before.

The chestnut door opens and there stands Minjun, dressed in a simple white t-shirt and black sweatpants, his hair slightly damp. Junho’s heart clenches at how adorably domestic the older agent looks; he wants to wrap him in a blanket burrito and hold him against his chest. Such a contrast to the usual formal office attire. Right now, they’re just regular men in regular clothes.

“Hey, come in.” Minjun smiles politely and steps aside.

“Hey.” Junho limps slightly as he makes his way inside, immediately impressed with the stylish interior design. It has a modern flare mixed with boho vibes. “Nice place you have here.” Junho kicks off his shoes swiftly.

“Thanks.” Minjun shows him to the living room, passing by various paintings on the white walls. “Do you want anything to drink?”

“Water is fine.” Junho sits down on a gingerbread-brown suede sofa, admiring a mini garden on its left, right by the balcony. There's a giant bookshelf behind the sofa, full of not only books but other miscellaneous items, like a record player, small sculptures, and photo frames.

“Here.” Minjun comes back with a glass of water and hands it to Junho, sitting down on the sofa as well, keeping a proper amount of distance between them.

“Thanks. How’s everything at work?” Junho takes a gulp from his glass.

“Everything wrapped up nicely. Had some relatives of the victims come in and thank us for catching the killer. I suppose their thank yous should be extended to you as well.” Minjun smiles a little, lips pressed together.

“I appreciate it.” Junho glances at the glass in his hands. “Although I feel like you’re still angry at me.”

Minjun sighs as he makes himself more comfortable on the sofa, shifting so his right arm rests on the back cushion, leaning back onto the armrest, one leg crossed, the other still on the floor. Junho puts the glass on the table, mirroring his pose so they’d be facing each other. “I’m not angry. I mean, I was, but not anymore.”

Junho relaxes a little, fully crossing his legs on the soft material. “I’ve had some time to think about it, and I understand how irresponsible I was. I will try to be a better team player, I promise.”

“It’s not just about being a team player, Junho. I think you forget that you’re more than just a colleague to me. Or…” Minjun swallows. “...maybe you just don’t know how I feel about you.” He chews on his lower lip, nervous. Junho feels something tug at his internal organs, like a helium balloon trying to pull them out of his body. “I care about you more than I’d like to admit. So,” Minjun licks his lips, “when you did what you did, I was terrified you’d be gone before I could tell you how important you are to me. When I saw the killer point the gun at you I just…” He closes his eyes, clearly trying to contain profound emotions, and Junho wants to wipe away that deep frown between Minjun’s eyebrows. However, Minjun doesn’t voice the rest of his thoughts and just stares at the hands in his lap, avoiding Junho’s intense gaze.

Minjun looks so small and vulnerable, something Junho wasn’t allowed to see until now. It’s such an intimate display of emotion, and Junho’s heart almost explodes at the level of trust Minjun has given him without asking anything in return. If Junho’s life before was just two colours - black and white - now there’s a full spectrum bursting from within. It’s all thanks to this man before him: confident, funny, loyal, kind, genuine, and so loving in his own way. Minjun feels like a rainbow on a gloomy day.

“Fuck,” Junho mutters and scoots over to Minjun, taking his hands in his. The latter looks at him, slightly surprised. “You’re not the only one in this, Minjun. I can’t get you out of my head no matter what I do. You’re always there. And I thought it was just an infatuation and it’d pass, but the feeling is just getting stronger, and I can’t stop it. I don’t think I want it to stop,” he admits, his voice low and decisive. “So, whatever this is between us, I want it to grow.”

“Me too.” Minjun’s expression is fond and tender as he squeezes Junho’s fingers tighter.

“Does that mean we’re officially boyfriends or what?”

Minjun nods and chuckles lightly. “You need a label?”

“I need clarity, there’s a difference.” Junho sounds a bit hurt even if he didn’t mean it to sound that way.

“Sorry, I was just teasing. Wrong time.” Minjun offers an apologetic smile.

“No, it’s not your fault, honestly. It’s just… Ugh, this is awkward.” Junho covers his face with his palms, elbows leaning on his knees. There’s no way getting around the fact he’s a virgin so he chooses slightly different wording, hoping it’d be enough. “I’ve never had a boyfriend.”

“So what? Some people are afraid to commit and choose casual dating. Especially an FBI agent. I’m not judging. If anything, I’m honoured you want to commit to me.” Minjun sounds nonchalant, but obviously, he doesn’t get it. Junho gathers his courage, even though he feels his ears and cheeks turn beet red, and looks straight into Minjun’s eyes.

“No, Minjun, I’m a virgin. I’ve never had sex. God, this is embarrassing.” Junho groans and buries his face in his palms again, trying to hide himself.

“Oh.” Minjun exclaims calmly. “How’s that possible though? You’re so gorgeous that I’m amazed there isn’t a line queueing up to snatch you from me.” Junho barks out a laugh, peeking at Minjun from behind his fingers.

“I’m not gorgeous.”

“Who the fuck made you believe that?” Minjun looks seriously offended as he takes Junho’s hand in his, the other caressing the younger man’s hot cheek. “Do you not own mirrors? You’re probably the hottest guy I’ve ever seen.”

Junho’s pretty sure his face is purple now. “You must’ve not seen enough guys, then.”

“Junho, I’ve seen enough. It’s you who doesn’t understand how beautiful you are. Inside and out.” Minjun holds his boyfriend’s face in his hands, trying to convey how serious he is. “And if I have to tell you how amazing you are every day for the rest of our lives, that's what I’m going to do until you believe me. Whoever fucked up your self-worth, I want to throw them into a volcano.” Junho snorts airily.

“Your dedication is hot. I think my parents are to blame for it, I suppose.” Junho offers a shy smile. Minjun nods, clasping his hands over Junho’s in the younger man’s lap. He sighs and continues. “When I came out, I was about to graduate high school. They berated me, for choosing to be gay. They told me it’d ruin my life, I’m not man enough if I can’t create a family and have kids. My sister was the only person who accepted me, so at least I had that. However, even now, I barely talk to my parents. Even with the most recent injury, I received a polite text only, asking if I’m ok and that’s it.”

“I went to the police academy hoping I’d get their respect back, but later I realised nothing I ever did would make them change their mind about my sexuality. So, I chose to concentrate on work and repress my feelings and desires. I guess I was punishing myself in a way, ignoring any possibility of a relationship.” Junho exhales, shakily.

“But then you came along, and I found it hard to maintain this mindset of keeping a leash on my desires. Like, there’s no point in denying I’m gay. It will not change. And I cannot sacrifice my own happiness for the prospect of my parents accepting me someday, because that may never happen. I don’t want to wake up one day, way over my prime years, and realise I tried to be normal for nothing. I just want to be happy and enjoy my life to the fullest. That’s all.” Junho’s shoulders relax, feeling a massive weight roll off them after confessing his inmost thoughts to Minjun.

The older man squeezes Junho’s hands. “I’m proud of you. Some people never dare let themselves be free. I’m really glad you had the courage to break away from all of those things that made you unhappy. You’re a brave man, Junho.”

Junho feels his eyes water slightly. “Your support means a lot. I still have some inner demons to fight, but I think it may be easier with you by my side.”

“You’ll always have my support.” Minjun’s compassionate smile warms Junho’s chest, and he smiles back.

“What’s your story?” He realises he doesn’t know much about Minjun’s personal life.

“I lost my parents in a car crash when I was 6. My uncle adopted me. He was an FBI agent himself, so that’s where I got the inspiration to become one too. He was extremely kind to me, always made me feel at ease. I was lucky to be adopted by him.” Minjun gazes somewhere past Junho’s shoulder, reliving memories with a soft smile. “When I was a teenager, I realised I wasn’t like the other boys because I didn’t care about gender. I liked who I liked and that was it. My uncle never judged me for it, on the contrary, he’s always been an advocate for expressing oneself. When I got a little bit older, he confessed he’s asexual, so that made sense why he was never inclined to have a family.” Minjun grins, looking back at Junho. “He lives in Boston now, enjoying retirement and teaching young FBI agents occasionally.”

“I think I’d love to meet him someday.” Junho admits, thinking how amazing it is to have someone supportive like Minjun’s uncle, especially for a queer person in early teenagerhood.

“You will.” Minjun winks. “He’ll be ecstatic to share his cocktail recipes with you.”

“God, I’m a lightweight, that’s going to be disastrous.” Junho laughs.

“I’ll take care of you; don’t you worry about that.” Minjun assures him with an affectionate smile.

“Glad to hear I’m in good hands,” Junho says in a low voice, leaning closer towards his partner.

Minjun takes the cue and closes the gap between them, brushing his nose against the younger man’s cheek lightly, a palm pressed against Junho’s neck. Then, his lips find Junho’s and they share a gentle kiss.

Junho’s fingers touch Minjun’s knee, the other hand grasping at the white t-shirt on Minjun’s chest, pulling him closer. He can smell Minjun’s shampoo, a sweet aroma of vanilla and something else, maybe mangoes. He always smells good but inhaling his scent from so close is an even more intoxicating experience.

Junho adds a bit more force to the kiss, exploring Minjun’s mouth passionately, tongue against tongue. He tastes like mint. Junho wants to taste and feel more, his body increasingly heating up. Like a hungry animal, he actually pushes Minjun on his back and settles on top of his body, making himself comfortable between his boyfriend’s legs.

A pair of hands caress Junho’s back while he cradles Minjun’s face in his palms, getting dizzy from not being able to breathe properly because kissing Minjun is just that mind-blowing. And when the older man’s hands land on his ass, Junho moves his hips inadvertently, grinding right into Minjun’s hardened cock, hearing the latter do a sharp intake of air due to the unexpected friction.

Junho moans into the heady kiss, but then he pulls away slightly. Just like him, Minjun is panting below him, eyes clouded with lust. Junho grinds again, supporting his own weight on his forearms, this time watching his partner’s expression, and boy is that a feast for his eyes. Minjun looks as wrecked as Junho feels, glistening lips parted as he gasps, affected by Junho’s seductive ministrations.

“Junho, if you keep at it, it’s going to be really hard to stop.”

“Who said we need to stop?” It comes out more desperate than Junho had intended, and the right corner of Minjun’s lips turns up slightly.

“I mean, keeping in mind your situation,” he hints at Junho’s virginity, and Junho rolls his eyes. “I thought you would want to take things slowly.”

“Minjun, I appreciate you being a gentleman, but with all due respect, I’ve been jerking off for months thinking about you, and I’m done waiting to get fucked by you.”

Minjun actually cackles, forcing Junho to slap his shoulder. “Sorry, I just didn’t expect you to be so assertive.”

“Really? After the stunt I pulled a few days ago?”

“Okay, you’re right. Let me rephrase it: maybe I just didn’t expect you to be so assertive about having sex.” Minjun’s laughter subsides, and then his expression turns serious. “I just don’t want you to feel like you have to rush things just because it’s universally expected of someone when you become official. I know some people disregard their own feelings to please the other party, and I don’t want that. I want you to be sure you want this for you, not for me.”

“Fuck,” Junho wheezes and buries his face in Minjun’s shoulder. “I really underestimated your chivalrous and considerate nature. And it’s weirdly turning me on even more.” Minjun's chest rumbles with tender laughter.

“No, but really, we don’t have to go from zero to a hundred in one evening. I don’t want you to regret anything.” Minjun’s fingers come to rest on Junho’s shoulders.

“Regret?” Junho lifts his head. “The only thing I regret is not meeting you earlier. Now I see what I’ve been missing out on. I really want this; I want to experience it all with you. And I don’t need to go slow; I know I don’t want that. I love you.” Junho confesses, not being able to keep it inside anymore. Minjun has to know how strongly Junho feels about him; there’s no point in suppressing that vital piece of information. Junho had promised to fight his demons, and one of those demons is repression. For what it’s worth, Minjun looks astonished yet jubilant at the same time, as a sincere smile stretches across his features.

“I love you too,” he replies softly, gazing at Junho with unfiltered affection. Junho’s breathing hitches, so overwhelmed with emotion. “Should we move to the bedroom?”

“Yes, please.” Junho stands up immediately, his boyfriend following suit, grinning at Junho’s eagerness. Minjun offers his hand, which Junho gladly accepts and allows the latter to guide him to the other room.

Minjun’s bedroom is a decent size, walls painted in a light cream colour, giving the room a cosy atmosphere. There’s a walk-in closet and a bathroom on the right. They stop at the foot of the bed, where golden silk sheets give the dark chocolate wooden frame a luxurious vibe.

“Just so you know, I got tested a few months ago, and I haven’t been with anyone else since then. I’m clean.”

“Well, you know my predicament, which makes it obvious I’m extremely clean. So, there’s that.” Minjun smiles briefly and brings Junho’s hand to his lips to kiss his knuckles.

“One last thing. If at any point you want to stop or something makes you feel uncomfortable, you must tell me no matter what.” Junho’s heart triples in size at how much Minjun cares about his wellbeing. “Deal?”

Junho smiles bashfully. “Deal.”

Now that they’re in the bedroom, Junho doesn’t feel so confident anymore. Minjun sensing that, embraces Junho’s waist with his free arm and kisses him gently. “What do you want, Junho?” he whispers, looking from up close.

“I want to touch you,” he admits, as Minjun takes a step back and removes his t-shirt, dropping it on the floor.

Junho practically salivates, eyes raking up the sculpted body in front of him, mere centimetres away. If it were up to him, he’d forbid Minjun wear shirts. All those hours at the gym surely were not spent in vain. Of course, he had a good glimpse of his muscles thanks to the infamous mesh shirt but seeing him without any barrier of clothing is almost life-changing.

Junho’s fingers trace down the heated bronze skin of Minjun’s neck in slow motion, admiring every patch of skin and muscle. He notices how the firm muscles contract under his touch, especially when he reaches the hem of Minjun’s sweatpants. Junho licks his lips and glances at Minjun, the older man’s eyes already half-lidded. “Can I go lower?”

“Please, do.” Junho’s breath shudders at how wanton Minjun’s voice sounds.

His hands travel to Minjun’s backside and slip beneath the underwear, getting a handful of the older man’s ass, breathing into his neck. He notices how Minjun trembles slightly, goose skin becoming apparent, and it sends a spark of lust to his own very hard cock. Junho sighs, shakily, and moves his curious hands to the front, taking Minjun’s member into his hand and giving it a few slow strokes.

Minjun gasps, holding onto Junho’s shoulders and pressing his face into the nape of his neck, kissing the flesh there, teasing it with his teeth. Junho reclines his head, forgetting the fact that his hand is still on his partner’s cock, unmoving, because the way Minjun’s lips are kissing and tongue licking at his throat is enough to make his brain slip into a temporary coma of pleasure. He feels Minjun leave his mark there, strangely turned on by the action.

After another short moment, Minjun’s hands mimic Junho’s previous movements and get a good feel of Junho’s round butt, although being a bit more modest and doing it through a barrier of his jeans.

Junho wants more skin-on-skin action, though, so he takes a step away and without any hesitation strips completely naked. It dawns on him he has never been fully naked in front of a man before and embarrassment creeps upon him when he sees eyes full of desire analysing his bare body.

“You’re beautiful,” Minjun says, completely sincere, and Junho’s ears burn, but he doesn’t object to the compliment this time, even though his entire being is screaming to do so. He knows Minjun wouldn’t lie or say something he doesn’t mean. Junho believes him.

Minjun closes the distance between them, caressing Junho's torso and arms with reverence; Junho feels worshiped under his partner’s touch. “From the moment I laid my eyes on you, I wanted to know what it’d feel like to be able to touch you like this. You’re exquisite.” Minjun’s fond eyes find Junho’s. “I wish you could see yourself the way I do. You’re impossible not to love.”

Junho gulps, hard. All this praise is making him dizzy. If Minjun keeps on talking like this, Junho’s going to come untouched. Apparently, he has a thing for praise now. The more you know.

“I really need you to fuck me. You’re way too good with words. It’s criminal.” Junho’s abrupt declaration brings an amused smile to Minjun's face.

“Duly noted.” Minjun removes his own remaining clothing and pushes Junho to the bed, crawling on top of him as they settle down comfortably.

They grind against each other, kissing with passion. The feeling of Minjun’s skin against his is otherworldly, so Junho’s hands are all over his partner’s body, attempting to memorise each curve. Junho is rock hard, the new experience making it unbearable to stay still, so he hooks one ankle around Minjun’s hips, avoiding using the injured leg, creating more friction as they move in unison, erotic gasps and moans filling the room.

After a few moments, Minjun pulls away from Junho’s lips; instead, he leaves a trail of wet kisses down the younger man’s neck and throat. An undignified sound escapes Junho, the feeling of Minjun’s mouth and teeth on his nipple quite an unexpected move. He loves it though, writhing beneath him, hand tugging at his partner’s copper hair gently. Minjun takes the hint and moves to the other nipple, rewarding it with the same attention.

When he gets lower, kissing Junho’s abs, the anticipation hits an all-time high and all Junho can do is watch him move down. Minjun doesn’t go for his cock straight away, though; he leaves another trail of wet kisses on Junho’s inner thigh until he reaches the band aid on Junho’s shin. He kisses the material gently, and Junho almost cries at how sweet the action is.

“What did I do to deserve you?” Junho whispers, grasping at the sheets.

Minjun smiles, looking up at him. “I ask myself the same question.” Junho shuts his eyes, inhaling as much air as possible. He has never felt so loved in his entire life. It’s utterly sublime.

Seconds later, he feels something warm and wet against his cock head, and his eyes snap open, witnessing Minjun licking the sensitive skin. The fact Minjun is looking right into his eyes as he takes the head into his mouth and sucks it gently, lapping his tongue over the crown edges, makes Junho shudder. This level of intimacy is kind of daunting yet not unwelcomed. Junho bites on his lower lip, watching Minjun’s skilful tongue run along the underside of his already leaking member. This vision is pure debauchery, and Junho cannot tear his gaze away from it.

Minjun takes him in his mouth fully this time, hand twisting at the base, forcing curses and loud moans out of his lover. “Minjun, I’m going to come if you don’t stop.”

There’s a slight smirk on the older man’s face, yet he doesn’t stop and bobs his head up and down even faster, his experienced fingers working on the rest of Junho’s cock, stroking him with a bit of roughness. His other hand fondles Junho’s balls.

The next moment, Minjun deepthroats him hard, and Junho thrusts up involuntarily, screaming out, releasing himself right into his lover’s throat, which is still squeezing him tight. He totally blacks out for a couple of seconds, catching his breath.

“I take it you liked it?” Minjun’s slightly hoarse voice makes Junho open his eyes. The older man is removing traces of Junho’s semen by wiping his plump lips with the back of his hand, hair dishevelled. There’s a satisfied grin on his face. The entire image is so obscene, Junho almost groans. Thank god he has photographic memory and stores the image in his mental archives for later use.

“I loved it, but I wanted to, you know, come with your dick in my ass.” He grumbles with mirth and Minjun laughs.

“I’m confident I can make you come twice tonight; otherwise, I wouldn’t have deepthroated you.” Minjun wears a cocky grin, which makes Junho smirk in return.

“Challenge accepted.” Junho’s gaze focuses on his partner’s still very hard cock. “I want to blow you.”

“You don’t have to.” Minjun reminds him gently, but Junho shakes his head and sits up.

“I will probably be bad at it, and you won’t enjoy it as much as I did a minute ago, but I really want to try.”

“Junho, there’s no way I won’t enjoy it. Just thinking about you sucking me off has me all hot and bothered.” He kisses Junho and the latter smiles into the kiss, switching their positions in the process.

Minjun presses his back against the dark chocolate headboard as Junho lowers himself between his legs, laying on his stomach. The younger man hooks one arm around his boyfriend’s thigh to make himself more comfortable.

He uses the other hand to give Minjun a few slow strokes before sliding his tongue against the slit, extracting a shiver from his partner. Junho exhales and gives a wet kiss to the head, then a few more slow smooches, and finally sucks on the tip, tasting the beads of pre-come.

It’s different but not unpleasant. Also, Minjun’s scent here is stronger, and Junho is enticed by it. He swirls his tongue while sucking up and down slowly, getting the hang of it little by little. The speed of his movements increases gradually, and there are fingers in his hair, caressing dark locks gently. “Yes, just like that. You’re so amazing, Junho.” Minjun moans, and Junho has to look up at him.

He’s fucking beautiful, half-lidded eyes full of desire and affection, sweat gathering on his muscular chest and temples. Junho focuses back on the task at hand and hums, increasing the speed once again, adding his hand to the movement where his mouth doesn’t reach. He’s not going to try deepthroating tonight; that’s for another time.

“Junho,” Minjun gasps and pulls on Junho’s hair a bit too harsh, making his dick fall out of the younger man’s mouth. Surprisingly, the harshness of the action sends a jolt of arousal down Junho’s cock. “Shit, I’m sorry. I didn’t want to come just yet. Did it hurt?”

Junho sits up on his knees, wiping at his lips. “Actually, I liked it.” Minjun’s eyebrows shoot up. “You being rough, I mean.” He smiles shyly at the admission.

“Fuck, you’ll be the death of me.” This time it’s Junho’s turn to raise his eyebrows. “Not only you’re a natural at cock sucking but you like it rough too? You’re full of surprises, boyfriend.”

“Well, there are still many things we’re not aware of just yet,” he offers suggestively, as if Minjun really needs persuasion.

“Let’s not waste time, then.” Minjun tackles him and they both laugh in between the kisses, Junho embracing his partner’s neck to feel more of his weight on top of him. They make out for a while, fully enjoying themselves with no hurry.

It’s amazing how much happiness letting yourself free can bring. Junho got away from Seattle not only because of career reasons but, secretly, he wished he could start over in a way. He didn’t realise it back then, but now he’s fully aware why he was so eager to move across the country.

He wanted to leave his past behind, and he needed a change of environment to be able to detach himself from old patterns and thoughts. While experiencing inner changes, he took on a chance for a new life where he could be truly himself and not someone else. He has been repressing himself for the longest time for his parents’ sake, and it did him no good. Only when he moved to New York did he understand how much he needed that change.

What he didn’t expect was falling in love. Being with Minjun and experiencing these things he’s never experienced before, Junho couldn’t be any happier than he is now. He feels elated and complete.

Junho watches Minjun’s torso stretch above him deliciously as he grabs lube and a condom from the night table drawer. “Can I do the honours?” Junho asks, taking the small foil package from his boyfriend’s hands. Minjun snorts.

“Go ahead.” Junho rips the package joyfully and pulls the condom over Minjun’s hard length.

“I think for your first time it’d feel better if you were on all fours,” Minjun suggests, caressing his lover’s neck gently.

“Gotta listen to the expert,” Junho quips and moves to all fours, feeling very exposed. But when he glances over his shoulder and sees Minjun’s sultry gaze, it sends more blood into his own half-hard member. “I’m not an art piece; you’re allowed to touch,” he mocks playfully and Minjun chuckles, amused.

“I beg to differ. The statue of David has got nothing on you. Or any of the art pieces in the entire world for that matter.”

“I still prefer to have an orgasm with your dick in my ass, not with words.”

Minjun drapes himself over Junho’s back, pressing their bodies together, his cock sliding against the cleft of Junho’s ass, a quiet promise of what’s to come. “Your wish is my command.” He whispers into Junho’s ear, making him shiver with anticipation.

Junho stares at the pillow below him as Minjun pulls back and hears him open the cap of the lube bottle. Even that sound riles him up; he’s so goddamn desperate to be filled with Minjun’s cock that it should probably be embarrassing, but Junho’s too far gone with everything he has experienced so far.

Minjun presses his lips against Junho’s shoulder when the first finger breaches Junho, making him gasp. Memories of him attempting to finger himself flood his brain, and it’s so different to have someone else do that. “All good?” Minjun inquires.

“Yeah, it’s weird when it’s not my fingers.”

“You tried it?” Minjun nibbles Junho’s ear with his teeth, his finger twisting, sliding back and forth slowly inside Junho.

“Yeah,” he admits, closing his eyes, making himself relax more.

“Have you ever tried sex toys?” Minjun’s second finger probes at the rim, and Junho gasps again.

“No. Just my fingers.” His grip on the golden sheets tightens as Minjun stretches him patiently, kissing the back of his neck and shoulders. “This is much better,” he concedes, thrusting back onto his boyfriend’s slender fingers.

“Hmm… Better, you say?” Minjun twists the digits inside Junho, locating the small bundle of nerves successfully, which forces a loud moan out of his partner. “I believe this is much better.” And he attacks Junho’s prostate again, pumping fingers in and out, making Junho collapse on his forearms.

“Fuck. Yes.” Junho groans, thrusting his hips back and fucking himself onto Minjun’s skilful fingers. “More. I need more.”

Minjun complies and adds the third finger. The burning stretch is more than pleasant, and Junho buries his moans into the pillow, unable to care about how lewd he sounds. All he can care about is the pleasure building in his groin. “Minjun, I need you inside. Now.” He barks out a muffled order and hears Minjun's shaky breath against his burning ear. “Fuck me hard.”

“Goddamn, Junho,” Minjun croaks and removes his fingers, making Junho feel extremely empty.

Junho manages to hold himself upright once again, looking over his shoulder just to watch Minjun push into him slowly, moaning at how fucking big he feels inside. When he finally bottoms out, hips pressed fully to Junho’s ass, Junho has to catch his breath, adjusting to how odd this feels.

“Are you okay?” Minjun asks, concerned.

“Yeah, just give me a moment.” Junho licks his lips and Minjun leans down, tilting Junho’s chin, kissing him sloppily.

“You feel so good, Junho. I’m probably not going to last very long,” he whispers against Junho’s parted lips, making his cock twitch.

“Shouldn't have prolonged this entire thing so goddamn much,” Junho notes in a mischievous tone.

“But that’s what makes it feel so great,” Minjun counters with a small grin.

“You have a point.” Junho swallows, craving more. “You can move now.”

Minjun draws back a little and they enter a slow rhythm, feeling pleasure build up bit by bit. However, Junho needs to feel more, he’s been dreaming about this for way too long. “I need you to fuck me harder. Use me.”

“God, you and your filthy mouth.” Minjun sounds overwhelmed, and it brings an impish smirk to Junho’s face.

Minjun straightens up and grabs Junho’s hips roughly, snapping into him with a slight angle change, which makes his cock drag against Junho’s prostate delightfully. Junho arches his back, completely overpowered by the sheer force of his boyfriend’s hips slapping against his butt, indecent noises heightening his sensitivity of the overall experience.

His arms turn to mush once again, and he’s about to collapse, but suddenly Minjun pulls out and manhandles Junho onto his back. “I want to see your face,” he explains tersely, panting. He presses Junho’s thighs to his sides, sliding his cock right back inside of his boyfriend, making Junho almost yell at how fucking amazing it feels.

“I’m close,” Junho warns breathlessly, and Minjun wraps his hand around Junho’s neglected dick, stroking him in sync with the quick movements of his hips. Junho doesn’t even register how quickly he reaches his second orgasm, semen landing on his abs and chest, staring right into Minjun’s fiery eyes.

At the same time, he clamps around Minjun’s cock and extracts a loud moan out of the older man’s throat, accompanied by his name, as he fucks into Junho with all his strength, reaching his own orgasm seconds later. Junho’s pretty sure there will be bruises on his thighs from the rough way Minjun had grabbed onto him. Not that he cares about that really but thinking about his lover leaving marks on him is oddly satisfying.

Minjun falls beside him, breathing heavily. Junho’s at a loss for words, honestly. Having two unbelievable orgasms in the same evening must melt a part of your brain. He watches Minjun remove the condom and disappear into the bathroom, still amazed at the fact that this entire thing isn’t just a figment of his remarkably vivid imagination.

The older man comes back with a damp washcloth and sits down to clean the remnants of his boyfriend’s release on his chest and stomach. Junho gazes at him affectionately, allowing Minjun to take care of him. “Thanks,” Junho says quietly, earning a kind smile from his considerate partner.

When Minjun is done with the washcloth, he throws it onto the ground and climbs into the bed, pulling a duvet over them, spooning Junho from behind.

Minjun embraces Junho’s waist, nosing at his black hair. Junho could enjoy cuddling like this for the unforeseeable future, so he melts into the warm embrace, placing his hands atop his boyfriend’s.

“So,” Junho begins, “virgin no more.” Minjun chuckles, kissing Junho’s neck where a love mark resides.

“It was my pleasure to help you with that,” he coos into Junho’s ear with mirth, making him shiver a little. “How are you feeling?” There’s genuine concern in his tone and Junho isn’t sure his heart can’t handle this level of sweetness. After years of closing himself off and denying himself any semblance of love, all that is happening right now is pretty bewildering. In the best way possible, of course.

Junho thinks a bit before answering because the way he feels is very hard to describe. It’s most definitely positive, that he is sure of. Then, he settles on a word that showcases happiness the best without sounding too sappy. “Colourful,” Junho mumbles softly and grins gleefully to himself, feeling Minjun press a smile against his shoulder.

This, right here, is paradise.