*

Vivi's Point of View:

Hello, everyone! My name is Oh Vivi. I'm a six-year-old Bichon Frise dog. I'm actually not sure of my age, though, but let's just assume that I'm already an adult who already wants to have a girlfriend (or a boyfriend? Maybe I'm into boys too, I still don't know yet.)

Anyway, aside from the fact that I'm the most handsome, most popular, most amazing, and most fabulous male dog lead in this series, I'm also The Boss in this house. People thought Chanyeol hyung is the Alpha male in the Park mansion, but, no. It's actually me, Oh Vivi!

I mean, everybody loves me? Like, I just breathe, wiggle my tail, act cute, bark, and everyone in the house is already doting on me, especially Baekhyun hyung and Kyungsoo hyung. They hug me, carry me, feed me treats, play with me, cuddle with me, and take me out on walks! Except for my Dad, these two humans are my most favorite of all! They're literal angels, I love them!

But now I'm suddenly sad... I thought all of my family members are fond of me, but there's one person who seems to, you know, hate me for a particular reason?

"Oh my god, Sehun! What's this dog doing on my bed again!?"

It's my Mom.

"What, Vivi just wants to sleep next to you..."

"He stinks!"

Excuse me? I smell like milk!

"Sehun, just please take him out of my room. I'm not dealing with your dog. I have to shoot a video."

"Fine, but you don't have to be that rude to Vivi, you know?"

"Yeah, whatever."

Mom would always glare at me as if he feels disgusted when he sees me, and Dad would have no choice but to take me to the living room so that I can go back to my cold bed. I just want to play with Mom because I like him, but it seems to me that he doesn't want me around. Yeah, I know I told you before I was the Alpha male, but when it comes to Mom, my charms don't work!

Should I think of ways for him to love me? So that he'd finally hug me, play with me, and let me sleep beside him?

"Vivi, don't go into Luhan hyung's room again. You know he doesn't like it when your fur sticks to his bed, right?"

"Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof!" But Dad! I want to be in his video! I can do some tricks to make him happy!

"Yeah, I know you want to be a star but not now. Your Mom's having mood swings again," Dad says while he hugs me. Ah, as usual, Dad smells so good just like me. He places me on the couch and gives me my squishy toy bone, "Here. Behave. I'll get back to you when I'm done with my assignments."

"Woof!" Okay!

"Be a good boy!"

See? It's Dad who truly understands and cares for me. How I wish Mom could do the same. After all, it's him who bought me from the pet store and gave me to Dad. Mom saved my life. Before in the pet store, I could only eat stale dog food, but now that I live here with these wonderful people, not anymore. I can eat whatever I want!

Speaking of food, I'm hungry and I'm bored. I hope Kyungsoo hyung can feed me?

"Woof! Woof!" Kyungsoo hyung, are you in the kitchen?

"Ngh, wait... Ah!"

Oh, what's that sound?

"Jongin, let's move to the bedroom... What if the guys see?"

"They're all busy so it's fine..."

"Woof! Woof!"

"Let's keep going, hm?"

"Okay, but hurry up..."

I'm here but I think Kyungsoo hyung and Jongin hyung don't see me? I've been calling them but they're ignoring me. I'm hungry! Please notice me!

"Ah, fuck, baby you're so tight! Spread your ass wider..."

"Haaah....! Damn it, babe. I said do it gently!"

Did I just turn invisible? Am I too white to be seen by them? I'm here sitting on the floor in front of them but they won't even look at me. How can they do this to me? Don't I matter anymore? Is what they're doing on top of the kitchen counter more important than me?

"Woof! Woof!" I'm hungry! I want food!

"Ugh, I'm gonna come... Shit... It's coming out...!"

"Come."

Wait. Did Jongin hyung tell me to come? Yes! He called me! He finally noticed my presence! I'm here! I'll come to you, guys!

"Woof! Woof!" I bark and jump on the counter, landing exactly on top of Kyungsoo hyung's chest, my favorite spot. I wag my tail and lick his face. "Woof! Woof!" Food! Give me food!

"Oh my god, why is Vivi here...." Kyungsoo hyung laughs at me. Oh, am I cute? I made him smile. "Jongin, put him down, please."

"Vivi, don't interrupt us. We're making love."

But... But you called for me...

"Let's see... Where should I take you..."

Why am I suddenly floating in the air? Am I flying?

"There. This is your bed. You sleep here, okay?"

Jongin hyung carries me back to my bed while I just look at him and Kyungsoo hyung heading upstairs. I'm sad. I don't have any humans to play with and no one's giving me food and attention. How am I supposed to live like this?

"Chanyeol sunbae, please give my phone back!"

"Grow taller first."

Oh, it's Baekhyun hyung! I can hear his chirpy voice and I can smell his sweet scent. He's home! I can finally play with him! Yay!

"Ahhhh! Don't look at my phone!"

"What's on your Youtube history? How to not orgasm fast?"

"I-I didn't search for it. It popped in my recommendations!"

"But you watched it?"

"I was bored..."

Grrr! Chanyeol hyung is messing with Baekhyun hyung again. Look at them chasing each other in the living room. I want to join! Let me play, too!

"Woof! Woof!"

"I said give my phone back!"

"Let's look through your gallery..."

"No, please... My privacy!"

"Are these screenshots of my messages three years ago?"

Poor Baekhyun hyung... I hate Chanyeol hyung a little because he always makes Baekhyun hyung cry, especially at midnight when I visit their bedroom? Like, I'd always hear him sobbing with my sharp ears. Baekhyun hyung would beg and say please, no more, but Chanyeol hyung would still keep going on and on, hurting Baekhyun hyung and making him scream. Hmph, this human should stop making Baekhyun hyung feel pain!

"Woof! Woof!"

Chasing him, I bite on the hem of Chanyeol hyung's pants and tug it to stop him. Rawr, rawr, rawr! You can't escape from me now!

"Oh, no! Vivi. Don't do that! His pants are gonna rip!"

Baekhyun hyung lifts me and hugs me in his arms. Weee~ I feel good! Free ride!

"Woof! Woof!" Bad Chanyeol hyung!

"Does Vivi hate me? Come here, buddy."

"WOOF!!!"

Chanyeol hyung seems shocked when I tried biting his hand. Well, not that I'm gonna hurt him for real. I can't do that to my boss. I just wanna scare him a little.

"Baekhyun, I think Sehun's dog is already hungry. You should feed him."

"He is?"

"Yeah, look at his eyes. It looks like yours when you're hungry."

"Please stop teasing me!"

Thank you, Chanyeol hyung! I take back what I said. You're not that bad anymore and I like you now. Finally, someone has understood what I want. I'm so happy!

"When you finish your food, don't forget to drink your water and go back to your bed, okay?"

"Woof!"

Baekhyun hyung leaves me in the kitchen as I enjoy my premium dog food in peace. I smell it, taste it, and munch it. Mm, it's still warm and fresh from the microwave. My favorite! Yesterday, I only had kibble because Kyungsoo hyung wasn't home to prepare my meal, so Jongin hyung had no choice but to feed me dry food. I told the guys yesterday that I wanted my food always hot when served and they seemed to understand it. Woof, I'm really their baby and I love it.

Licking my bowl clean, I drink my water to finish my lunch. Now after having my tummy filled, I feel sleepy. Maybe I should take a nap. That's right, I should follow my daily routine. Eat, play, and sleep. That's just what I basically do everyday.

Like what Baekhyun hyung told me, I go back to my comforter and sleep. It's the one closest to the door so that I can easily see if my human leaves the house or comes home. Have I already said this before? I have like, ten beds around the mansion where I can rest whenever I want to, and my favorite mattress is on the foot of Mom's bed. (Though I know Mom hates it, I still like it because it feels warm and cozy and it's the best place of all!)

After fifteen minutes of napping--I'm not really sure how long I had slept for because I'm a dog and I can't read clocks, obviously---I hear a clinking noise going downstairs. My right fluffy ear perk, and when I turn my head around, my tail automatically wags on its own.

It's Mom! And seems like he's leaving the house?

"Woof! Woof!"

I knew it! Mom would always wear a mask and a cap whenever he's going out, and he'd also bring keys with him. I've seen him riding a bicycle when going to the convenience store. I even tagged along with him once when Dad said Mom should walk me to the park. Can I come with him today? I wanna visit the park and play outside! I wanna run on the grass and maybe spot a cute dog around. Woof~

"Woof! Woof! Woof!" Mom, I wanna come with you! Let's go outside and play!

While twerking my butt and moving it sideways cutely, I follow Mom wherever he goes. To the kitchen, living room, and dining room, until he stops walking. Oh, did he finally notice me? He's looking at me now! He lifts his finger and puts it across my nose.

"Stay."

S-stay? But why?

"Don't go anywhere."

No! I'm not staying here. I wanna play with you, Mom. I won't give up, not when you put my leash around my neck and take me out for a walk! Dad seems a little busy today so as my Mom, you should take responsibility, right?

"Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof!" Mom, wait for me! I brought my leash with me!

Mom is already outside when I tail him up to the garage where his bike is parked. He is unlocking the wheels so maybe he's really gonna use it? You see, you may not know about this but Mom rarely goes outside the house nowadays, and when he goes out, he covers himself up like he's a celebrity! He only gets to use that bike sometimes though, when going to the convenience store to buy snacks, but other than that, he loves to stay indoors and do online shopping for the things he needs like make up and clothes.

Why do I know about this? Because I'm a smart dog, duh.

"Woof, woof, woof," I bark softly and drop my leash on the ground so Mom can clasp it on my collar, but he only ignores me again. He's just staring at his phone like he doesn't see me in front of him. Did he not hear me? "Woof! Woof!"

Mom starts riding his bike and leaving me behind. Is he really gonna leave me like this? After all we've been through together?

"Woof! Woof!"

When I thought Mom was gonna keep cycling away, he suddenly stops.

Woof? Is he staring at me now?

"Ugh. Fine. Just this once..."

The next thing I know, I'm already in front of the bicycle, sitting on the basket tray as my tail won't stop moving! The air is blowing coolly and swooshing my fur while Mom is driving behind me. Wee! We're going to the park! Ah, I'm a little scared because I might fall off the bike but I trust Mom that he won't let me get hurt.

Arriving at the convenience store, I can only watch and wait from the outside as Mom enters the place. Probably he's gonna buy yogurt, banana milk, and ice cream? Look, I can see him falling in line in front of the counter while he's staring at his cellphone again. I think he's checking out Instagram while listening to music. Well, he sometimes posts pictures of my Dad and me. I don't mind it though, as long as he feeds me snacks and lets me cuddle with him at night.

"Look, a cute dog! His fur looks like a soft white cloud."

Cute dog? That's me! Oh Vivi!

"I think I've seen this dog before."

Two girls, who I think are college students, come near me to gently pet my head and rub my back! Mm, it feels good. I'm really famous, aren't I? Wherever I go, as expected, people will get fond of me. Am I adorable? You wanna take me home? Hah. Sorry, you can't. I already have an owner!

"Excuse me, is this dog yours?"

Oh, Mom's already done shopping for snacks. He's now here. I can't wait to go to the park and play!

"No, it's my boyf-- I mean, yeah. It's my dog."

"What's her breed?"

"Bichon Frise, and he's a male."

"Oh. What's his name?"

"Vivi."

"Vivi? That sounds familiar."

I know, right? Because I'm popular and I'm an internet star! I've been on Youtube before. Have you guys seen me? I've been in Mom's video once! Mom says I look like a Polar bear so I should be on Animal Planet.

"Wait, I think I know yo-- Omg, aren't you Luhan!? The influencer?"

"Huh? That's not me. Maybe you're mistaken..."

"No, it's you! I'm following you on Instagram!"

"Yeah, yeah! I recognize you! Can we take a picture with you and your dog? I'll show it to my friends!"

"Uh, I think I need to go, I'm sorry..."

"No, wait! Let's take a selca. Take off your mask!"

"Just please make it quick."

"Wow. You're so handsome up close!"

"Thank you, I guess..."

Looking at Mom, he's not saying anything while these girls take pictures of us. He looks uncomfortable. Does he hate it when people stick close to him? Maybe he doesn't like it when he's outside. Is he allergic to the sun? Are these girls too noisy? I don't understand. Mom is usually loud at home though, so why is he suddenly becoming quiet now?

"Are you really gay?"

"Yeah, I am."

"And you have three boyfriends?"

"That's right."

"Omg. He must've seduced them in bed..."

"I hope his butt is okay..."

"What the hell did you just say?"

"Nothing. Thank you for the pics. See you around, Oppa!"

"We'll buy your toys, hehe!"

Oh, no. Mom looks pissed! What's wrong, Mom? Is it because of me? Because I'm a bad dog? Maybe if Dad was with us, you wouldn't get mad like this. I'm sorry, Mom. I'm gonna behave from now on. Woof.

"Come on, let's go... What a snob..."

"Tch, his personality sucks..."

"I know right, I'm gonna unfollow him now..."

"He's not even that handsome anyway..."

When the girls leave, Mom sighs and looks at me. He seems really down today. I should make him happy!

"Ten minutes, then we're going back home."

"Woof!"

Mom takes the leash off my neck and puts me down so that I can walk by myself in the street. Yes, I'm now free! When we arrive at the park, he sits on a bench and lets me wander off on the grass where I can run and take care of my business. Mom is kind today because he's not yelling at me. He makes me do whatever I want while he busies himself with his phone.

This is my chance. I'm gonna look for a stick so we can play fetch! He's gonna be in a good mood if he plays with me, right?

"Woof! Woof!"

Using my nose, I push close to Mom's shoe the stick I found in the park. "Woof!" Mom picks it up and throws it far away, so I run as fast as I can to chase for it. Wait for me, stick! I'll come and get you to give to Mom! "Woof!"

I feel great as I jump, biting the stick with my teeth while rolling on the muddy field. Yes, I caught the stick! But what to do? My thick and white fur is now covered with dirt and soil, and I know Mom is gonna get angry when I come back like this! I'm gonna get rid of this mud myself first. Woof.

Where can I clean my sexy body before I go back to Mom? Oh, there's a wide grassy hill nearby. Maybe I can lay down on it for a second, rub my back on it while giving my tummy a nice massage? Dad told me once that he hated it when I became dirty but what can I do? I can't help it! It's fun rolling around the mud!

"Woof!"

I smother myself on the grass and roll
over and over, running and jumping, then tumbling again. I'll just get back to Mom when I finish playing here. I see a pink butterfly when I look up at the sky, and it's really beautiful like Mom! I should catch it and give it to him with the stick!

"Woof! Woof! Woof!"

Wait. Where did it go? How could it fly so fast? Ms. Butterfly? Are you still here? I was just running and following you, and before I know it, I'm not in the park anymore.

Oh, no.

Where am I right now?

"Woof... Woof..."

There are no humans around me anymore, no houses, no cars, no Mom either. I can only see an empty street and trees ahead of me. I have to find my way back in no time. Woof. Sniffing on the road, I trace back my steps as I recall the scent of my Mom. He smells very faint from where I am right now.

No, this won't do, I have to hurry back before Mom notices I'm missing. Don't worry Mom, I won't take long. All I have to do is look for my stick and... find the path to the park...

"Woof!"

I can't find it.

"Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof!"

I'm lost.

*

What Luhan does as soon as he wakes up from his accidental nap on the bench is look at his watch and stand up.

"Shit."

It's been fifteen minutes since Vivi was gone.

"Where's Vivi?"

Glancing around the park, Luhan runs to the direction where he remembers throwing the stick and where Vivi ran off to. Why did he even fall asleep all of a sudden? Where did Vivi go? What if Vivi got lost? Maybe he should call Sehun. No, he must look for Vivi first, that dog is just probably around somewhere playing. Vivi is a smart pup so he'll surely find his way back to the bench where the bicycle is parked.

"Vivi!!!"

Calling for Vivi, Luhan goes around asking people he's passing by if they saw a white dog with a blue collar on its neck, but he only receives head shakes from them. He approaches the vendor close to the street, the girls in the coffee shop, and even the janitor throwing garbage in the back alley, but still no luck. He also heads back to the convenience store but the owner says negative; Vivi is not there, let alone in the playground where Vivi could possibly be.

What should he do? It's all his fault. If he hadn't taken Vivi with him in the first place, this wouldn't happen. If he hadn't been so careless and nonchalant, Vivi would still be here.

"Vivi! I'm here! Let's go back...!"

What should he tell Sehun now? For sure his boyfriend is gonna get angry and worried if he learns what happened. Sehun has an exam coming up in two days, and Sehun finding out that his precious son is going missing is the last thing that Luhan wants. So, before anything else, he needs to find Vivi as soon as possible. He doesn't care if he gets tired running aimlessly and looking for every nook and cranny of the park. What matters is seeing Vivi right now and making sure he's safe and sound.

"Vivi! Where are you!? VIVI!"

Worry, fear, exhaustion, anxiety, regret; these are what Luhan feels as he ventures the street alone. His feet hurt from running too much, as well as his throat from screaming Vivi's name. Showing Vivi's pictures, he decides to ask the help of the police to look for the missing dog, and they only tell him they'll give him a call if there's news. The skies are getting pretty dark by now, and Luhan is sure his boyfriends back home are already looking for him.

While immersed in deep thoughts as he wanders around the park for the seventh time, Sehun's text arrives on his phone. It gives Luhan a mini heart attack.

Hyung, what time are you and Vivi coming back? It's getting late.

Biting his bottom lip as he thinks for the most plausible lie, Luhan can't help feeling guilty.

There are so many customers here in the pet salon. We'll probably be done in an hour. Sorry for not telling you.

He presses send. Sehun replies as fast as lightning.

It's okay. Just come home before dinner.

PS. I miss you already.

"I'm sorry, Sehun... I didn't mean to lie. I have to find Vivi first no matter what..."

There's no time to slack off, Luhan reiterates that to himself as he pockets his phone. Running towards the grassy field as his heart beats loudly, he yells one more time on top of his lungs:

"Vivi! Mom is here!!!!"

Vivi might've been annoying sometimes for being too clingy, and Luhan might've also acted rude towards him a lot of times, but not because he hates Vivi. How can he hate that adorable dog? Vivi symbolizes his love for Sehun, and without him, Sehun wouldn't be happy like what he is now.

He doesn't hate Vivi and he will never feel any hatred towards that innocent creature. It's just. It's a secret no one knows about. Dogs, no matter what size they are, intimidate him since he was a little. But having Vivi by his side, he learns to overcome that phobia by treating Vivi indifferently.

"Vivi! I'm sorry! Please come back!!!" Luhan says like he'll get a reply. This is unexpectedly making him cry like a child; he feels so guilty and worried to death, and he just wants to see Vivi right now and hug him tight. "Vivi! I'm not gonna get mad at you anymore.... I'll let you cuddle with me if you want and sleep on the same bed next to me... So please..." He stops running, tears and snot dripping all over his face, "Please show up now... And let's go home..."

Hearing the engine of a revving van behind him, Luhan can't help thinking of bad thoughts. What if Vivi didn't get missing? What if some stranger kidnapped and sold the dog for money?

"No, don't think about it..."

Something twitches on the bush nearby, so Luhan hastily runs towards it. Maybe Vivi is there, hiding behind it? Because it's getting dark and he's been walking for god knows how long, he doesn't notice a rock on his way. He accidentally trips over on it, losing his balance and twisting his right ankle.

A stray cat shows up from the bush, jumping and running away because of the noise he made when he fell.

It's not Vivi.

No one save for Luhan is in the street right now and he's struggling to get up due to his injured foot. It's aching and throbbing up to his leg, so he flinches when he tries to stand. He uses all his strength to lift himself up with the help of his elbows.

"Fuck," he hisses in pain as he drags his foot with maximum difficulty. What the hell. How can he be more pathetic than this? Fortunately, the bench where he was sitting earlier is already closeby, but the disappointment he feels when Vivi is still not there makes his foot hurt even more.

Vivi is missing. He sprained his ankle. He's cold. He's not yet home. He's alone. Since when did he become so weak like this?

"I can't call Sehun... I can't call the guys..."

He should ask for help instead of doing this alone. Sitting on the bench while staring at his phone in a daze, his thumb hovers on the contact number of the first person that comes into mind. After pondering and thinking whether to call him or not, he takes a huge breath and decides to contact his boyfriend anyway.

[Hello?]

"Babe..."

[Yeah? I'm on my way home now. Do you want something? I'm gonna buy it in the convenience store.]

"No, I'm not at home... I'm in the park right now."

[Park? What's wrong with your voice? Are you okay?]

Luhan sighs, fiddling with his hands.

"I'm fine... Can you meet me?"

[Right now? Tell me what's happening, I'm getting worried.]

"Just, just come here, please? Hurry up..."

[Okay, stay there! I'm coming.]

Beep.

It's not even ten minutes after the call when Luhan glimpses a figure of a man running towards his direction. His eyes start to water as his chest tightens, seeing a familiar face that makes him relieved. He's not even a crybaby in nature, but why is this scene making him tear up?

"Luhan!"

Jongin is always just a one call away, he's been like this ever since.

"Oh my god. What happened to you? Are you hurt somewhere!?"

Assessing the current situation when he arrives at the park, Jongin sees the bicycle and Luhan's pained face. He instantly takes off his coat and drapes it over the male's shoulder to keep him warm.

"Sorry for calling you out of the blue... I kind of, well, sprained my ankle so I couldn't ride the bike going home," Luhan laughs nervously, showing Jongin his foot that is awkwardly prepped on the bench, "And I couldn't call them because they'd just probably get worried, so..."

"You should've told me you injured your ankle, I could've bought first aid supplies from the pharmacy," Jongin says, taking off Luhan's right shoe and checking for himself if the sprain on his ankle is bad. It looks swollen and he's sure it's really painful. He massages it a bit, "Does it hurt when I touch it here?"

"Y-yeah..."

"Let's go to the hospital so we can treat your foot. I'm calling Sehun right now and--"

"No, please don't."

Luhan suddenly holds Jongin's hand to stop him.

"Jongin, I took Vivi with me. But now he's missing and I don't know where he went..."

Jongin's eyes widen in surprise.

"What?"

"I-I couldn't find him anywhere... I already tried searching for him but I still haven't seen him... I also contacted the police... Sehun doesn't know about this yet and I haven't told anyone else aside from you..."

"Maybe Vivi's already at home?"

"No, Sehun texted me and he asked for both Vivi and me. And Vivi can't possibly know the way back..."

Jongin feels panic rushing into him, hearing the news and also seeing Vivi's empty leash lying on the ground. He maintains his composure as he quickly thinks of ways to find Sehun's dog.

"W-what if someone kidnapped Vivi? What if he's hurt right now!?" Luhan's trembling intensifies, slumping his face on his sweaty palms as he cries, "What if Sehun breaks up with me because I lost his dog!? He'll never forgive me if I don't bring Vivi back home! It's all because of me! If only I had been more caring, then this wouldn't happen! What am I supposed to do now!?"

"Babe, listen. Calm down first and pull yourself together," Jongin mutters, holding Luhan's shoulders and looking straight into his puffy eyes, "What happened is not your fault. We're gonna find Vivi no matter what." He wipes away his tears, cupping his face gently. "Okay?"

Luhan nods slowly as he breathes, clutching the sleeve of Jongin's shirt. He allows the man to soothe his back, pressing a gentle kiss on his forehead and hushing him down.

"Do you remember where Vivi ran off to?"

The crunching sound of Jongin's sneakers walking on the grass is the only noise that can be heard as Jongin carries Luhan on his back for a piggyback ride. The sun is beginning to set behind the cloudy mountains as their shadows gradually fade with the dark. Luhan leans closer, whispering to Jongin's ear.

"Jongin..."

"Yeah?"

"You know, you didn't have to carry me like this."

"It's fine, you're not even that heavy," Jongin says while Luhan illuminates their way using his phone's flashlight, "And it'll be uncomfortable if you use the bicycle in that state, right? We should go to the hospital after this."

"No, I could just take care of my sprain at home. It's not even that serious."

"But still, it needs to be checked up immediately."

"Did you tell Kyungsoo you're with me?" Luhan asks, holding onto Jongin's shoulders properly. "He must be waiting for you at home by now..."

"Don't worry. I said we were going on an afternoon date."

"I told Sehun I was in the pet salon with Vivi, though."

"Then I'll just tell him that I went on a date with you and Vivi in the pet salon."

It's not the right time to laugh but that just made Luhan chuckle. He embraces Jongin's neck tighter and sniffs his hair, leaving a soft peck on his nape. Jongin smells nice, like fresh brewed coffee and a little bit of chocolate.

"Babe."

"Hm?"

"Thank you for coming."

Jongin stops for a while, before he keeps walking again but slower this time.

"You should be getting mad at me right now, scolding me for being too careless with Vivi... You're supposed to say I should be calling Sehun instead of you, and that I should explain to him what actually happened... But clearly, you didn't... You even lied to Kyungsoo for me," Luhan sadly says, "Sometimes, I can't help thinking that I'm just keeping you because I need your help... I mean, you always spoil me, you don't even get mad at me, and it's like, I only take you for granted because you always come to me without hesitation... I'm so sorry for being like this..."

A short pause.

Then Jongin lets out a soft laugh.

"Pfft. You're being dramatic right now, aren't you? You talk like I'm just anyone to you."

"I didn't mean to make you feel that way..."

"Of course, I'm always gonna be there whenever you call me," Jongin answers with a smile, "I'm your boyfriend and I love you, and as long as we're together, you're my responsibility."

The orange sun has completely finished sinking and the moon has made its way to shine above them. The scarlet skies have also turned black while the two of them still round the park looking for Vivi. Crickets and cicadas chirp from a distance, and somehow this helps calm down Luhan's anxious heart.

"So, when there are times that Sehun can't be with you," Jongin continues speaking as he moves his head, peeking slightly at Luhan's face, "I'll be here instead. Just like before."

Luhan sniffs his tears and smiles. Jongin's back is as warm as before, and it reminds him of the day when he first met Jongin back in high school.

"Okay," he replies as he buries his face on his boyfriend's neck so that he can hide his blushing cheeks, "I'll keep that in mind..."

"Hey, are you crying?"

"N-no, I'm not."

"Liar~"

"I'm really not!"

As expected of Kim Jongin, he always says the nicest words that can stir up his feelings. Luhan realizes that he's very lucky to have this kindhearted man to stay in his life up until now. Vivi is lost out there but here he is, getting utterly emotional over the simplest things. He hopes Sehun can forgive him for letting this fragile side of him get in the way in finding his cherished dog.

"You know. There are things we can't do anymore since you started dating Sehun and I married Kyungsoo," Jongin says, "Like, making love with just the two of us and going out on dates. So I admit I feel happy whenever you first think of me in situations like this." He laughs. "At least this means that you still need me by your side, right?"

"What the hell are you even saying..." Luhan hits him weakly, "I need you not only for sex, but also because I love you, and it's a fact."

Jongin chuckles.

"Yeah, because you love it when I spoil you since you can't act like a brat in front of Sehun."

"It's embarrassing if he sees me like this... So I'm the one babying him instead..."

"I'll gladly serve my purpose, then."

"Okay, Daddy."

"Pfft. If Kyungsoo hears us, he'll surely think this is super cringeworthy."

"I know, right? He's not really the type to say cheesy things. It makes him feel awkward but I think that's adorable."

"Well, you still have to bear with his nagging when you come home."

"I could say the same about you."

"I have a free pass cause I'm the husband~"

"Tch, so unfair."

Their conversation is interrupted by the upbeat ringtone coming from Luhan's phone. Holding Luhan's arm, Jongin carefully assists him from getting off his back as his boyfriend answers the call.

"Hello? Who is this?"

[Good evening, Mr. Luhan. This is Seoul Police Lost and Found Department. You filed a report this afternoon about a missing male Bichon Frise, and we'd like to let you know that we already found your dog.]

Luhan's face brightens up upon hearing the good news. Crying and laughing like an idiot, he jumps in happiness that's why Jongin has to hold him close not to lose his footing.

"REALLY!? OH MY GOD! THANK YOU SO MUCH, SIR! THANK YOU FOR FINDING VIVI!"

[Apparently, your dog, Vivi, hitched a ride in one of the police cars patrolling down the street. A colleague of mine saw him sleeping in the trunk. Please come to our station as soon as possible so you can take your pet home.]

"Yes, I'll be there right now, Officer! Is Vivi okay? He's safe, right!? Thank you very much for your hard work! Yes, I understand... Thank you!"

Pocketing his phone, Luhan squeals and pulls Jongin for a kiss. Jongin smiles, kissing him back as the two of them hug and do a celebratory dance in the middle of the park under the streetlamp.

"They already found Vivi!?" Jongin asks just to make sure.

Luhan nods like his head would fall off.

"Whew, finally! I thought we were gonna be homeless," Jongin laughs, feeling honestly relieved, "Sehun and Kyungsoo are definitely gonna kill us if it turned out Vivi was kidnapped."

"Let's head to the police station now. Can you get my bike?"

Arriving at the station, Luhan totally forgets the sprain on his ankle as he hysterically enters the Lost and Found office. In the corner of the room, his heart races when he spots Vivi (whose fur is all dirty) curled up in a blanket sleeping inside a makeshift box. The pitiful sight of Sehun's dog makes him sob as he squats down, scooping the pet to let him know that he's here.

"Vivi," Luhan cries, bracing Vivi in his arms despite the dog's shabby state, "I'm sorry for being late. I'm here now..."

Hearing the voice of his Mom, Vivi jerks while his tail flips excitedly at how happy and excited he is. He barks loudly, jumping at Luhan and licking his face while uncontrollably wiggling his plump body.

"Woof! Woof! Woof! Woof!"

Carrying Vivi and never letting him go, Luhan politely bows at the policemen who found Vivi. Before leaving, he thanks them and promises he'll bring food next time he visits. Seeing Vivi safe and alive, Luhan swears to himself not to lose him ever again. This might be the first time he is cradling Sehun's dog like this in his arms, and although Vivi's fur is covered with dried mud, the dog's warmth is still evident and comforting.

"Vivi, are you okay? You must be really tired," Jongin says as he pets the dog's head fondly, receiving a lick and a bark from Vivi. Luhan meets Jongin outside the station after he wraps Vivi with the coat Jongin lent him.

"Are we gonna hail a cab going home?" Luhan asks.

"Nope, I called someone to take us home," Jongin says.

"Who?"

Luhan's question is answered by a double honk from an approaching vehicle in the distance. Staring at Jongin, his boyfriend just gives him a casual shrug.

"What, I couldn't call Sehun and Kyungsoo, and he's the only friend who can drive us home this late."

The black luxurious car stops in front of them, its door opening to let them in. Vivi howls upon seeing the driver clad in black cap and comfy clothes.

"Get in," Chanyeol says.

The whole ride is filled with comfortable silence; Jongin occupies the shotgun seat next to Chanyeol as Luhan sits in the backseat with Vivi cuddled on his lap. Jongin informs Chanyeol about what happened the whole day while the man nods to respond to him. Luhan is glad Chanyeol doesn't ask too many questions, and that he's always willing to help whenever he can.

"Let's drop by the hospital so you can get your ankle treated," Chanyeol tells Luhan as he drives, heading to the direction opposite the house, "There's also a vet clinic nearby. We need to make sure Vivi's okay."

"Thank you," Luhan mumbles, staring at his foot he doesn't realize has been bruising already.

*

The mansion is surprisingly quiet and gloomy when Jongin, Luhan, and Chanyeol arrive from the hospital. The moment the front door is opened, Baekhyun, Kyungsoo and Sehun, who have been waiting for their partners in the living room, immediately stand up at the sight of the three.

"Woof! Woof!"

Luhan puts down Vivi as the dog barks enthusiastically, running towards his owners to greet them. After the vet, Vivi has his fur all groomed and cleaned up, just like what he normally looks like.

Jongin carefully lets go of Luhan's arm wounded on his shoulder as he helps the male stand upright even with his foot covered with a bandage and a brace. Muttering a quiet thanks, he tries to walk by himself while Jongin still supports his elbow.

Kyungsoo's eyes enlarge upon seeing the unexpected scene in front of him. Jongin is avoiding eye contact, meanwhile Baekhyun can't help gasping in shock, seeing Luhan in this condition. Chanyeol takes off his cap, runs a hand through his hair, and sighs. He lightly taps Jongin's back before he goes to Baekhyun, telling him they should head upstairs and rest for today.

"I'm... I'm sorry for coming home late," Luhan says in the middle of silence. "I'm perfectly fine so you don't have to worry about me."

Sehun stares at him with confusion, worry, and hurt plastered on his face. Vivi is wildly barking at his feet, but he seems not to hear the dog as he only focuses his attention to his injured boyfriend.

"Sehun," Luhan mutters, teary-eyed, as if he was begging, "I can explain. Please hear me out."

*

Quote of the day: The beautiful part about losing something is that it becomes more precious after finding it again.

To be continued.

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Next chapter preview!

"Oh Sehun!"

That seems to alarm Sehun, hearing his full name from the older.

"What?" Sehun blurts out. "You should sleep now so your injury would heal faster. Let's not pick a fight with each other, okay?"

"Look, if we still settle this tomorrow, I know we're just gonna end up arguing again so let's not do that," Luhan says, holding Sehun's arm and forcing him to face him, "You have a lot to say, don't you?"

"I'm still gathering my thoughts so let's just talk tomorrow," Sehun replies shortly and buries his face on the pillow, "Good night."

"Are you still angry?"

"I told you, I'm not. But if you keep bugging me, I'll get angry for real."

"We're okay... Right?"

"Would I make love to you if we weren't?"

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No smut in this part since it's in the next chapter! >< Happy Birthday, Sehun! See you all the soonest hopefully!

- ParkBaekkie