"YOU'D COME OVER RIGHT
...RIGHT?"
word count: 4,270

THE world, was definitely not ending. It wasn't. The trees were still intact, the sky wasn't going through some weird phase of it falling like in the movie Chicken Little. Everything was fine, perfectly fine just like any other ordinary day. There was just a subtle change that suddenly occurred in Xu Minghao's life, a change that he wasn't ready for nor had even expected.

"We're dating!" Hansol excitedly spoils, raising his hand that is intertwined with Jun's who is embarrassed within the moment. Their friends clap, only because they can't make things awkward. Joshua and Jeonghan were the best at lying so they took initiative to congratulate the two for the rest of the nine. "Jun stop being so shy." He pokes the boy who finally turns his face towards his friends, cheeks and ears flushed a light pink as the secret was finally revealed.

"How long?" Wonwoo questions, curious about how their relationship sprouted. "I always had a feeling you two had some weird thing going on." Lies. Everyone in the group believed that Minghao and Jun were something special, especially with the way they acted towards each other. Jun being the baby of the group, he wasn't shy with skin-ship and would cling onto the younger male for hours. Minghao wasn't against the affection as he had deep feelings for the boy, and man was he fucked when he received the news.

"Last week Thursday." Jun answers, looking at Hansol for confirmation as the boy nods. "Yeah, sorry for the late notice."

"No worries," Jeonghan tells with a small smile, "we're happy that you guys told us. Doesn't matter when, but we're glad you guys did."

Minghao nods, trying to conceal the disappointment from displaying on his face. He even tried to diffuse the negative vibes around him but it was just too much to handle. He checks his phone once it buzzes, as the young male was quick on his feet to make excuses he widens his eyes to bring a more realistic reaction. "Sorry guys, have to go. Supposedly one of my students need help with math."

"Life of a tutor, could never be me." Jihoon comments before he leaves, but before he zooms off to who knows where. Wonwoo steps in,

"I'll go with you, I need to complete some work and it's not gonna get done here. The cafeteria is too much for my brain to handle." The older boy sits up from his seat and walks on over to Minghao, they both wave their goodbyes and congratulate Hansol and Jun once again for their new relationship. As they drift away from the table and out of the cafeteria area, Minghao digs his nails into his palm as they walk. "Guessing you needed some fresh air after the news. That's understandable."

"It's just..weird." Minghao admits, looking to his friend that stands beside him, "Jun and Hansol? I'm not against it - okay maybe I am, but how. And more of..why?"

Wonwoo shrugs, unsure of how to answer his lingering questions. "I don't know, if I did I would definitely tell you. All we know is that Jun and Hansol have good chemistry and a good relationship with each other. Who knows, one of them could have caught feelings and confessed. We really don't know how it all went down."

Minghao wanted to be happy for his friends, but the fact that he was in love with Jun made things impossible. "It's selfish but I really thought him and I would have a go at it. Hansol didn't seem to have any interest in him..."

"Who knows, I hate to break your heart but it may have been Jun who wanted to date him." Wonwoo states, it was difficult for the thirteen boys to display their feelings as there were underlying secrets within all of them. This could have been one of Jun's, not being able to say anything because he was afraid of someone else having romantic feelings towards Hansol. But, with no one has revealing anything he took a chance. This was only a mere prediction of course. "Right now..we just have to be happy for them."

"Do you think they caught on?"

"That the real reason to why you left is because you're shattered by the fact that your potential boyfriend is now taken. Yes, I'm sure they're highly aware." His descriptions were blunt but true, Minghao felt a hint of guilt in his heart for leaving so suddenly. But, what could he do? Watch his crush be lovey dovey with his new boyfriend and pretend as if things were alright inside? That wasn't something he was going to do, he wasn't an idiot. "You have the right to leave, nobody is telling you to stay."

"Thanks," Minghao shortly appreciates the boy's words as the reassurance was very much needed. "you're company makes things better, I probably would have went into the dance studio and started screaming."

"Doesn't seem like a bad idea. I heard your teacher is quite understanding when it comes to any situation. Students tend to go rant to her even if it's for the littlest of things."

"You're right," The younger answers, he himself has ranted to Mrs. Kim an abundance of times about the same topic. Jun. They were both in the same dance class, she was able to observe the boy's relationship and had a great feeling that their ending would end on a positive note. But, now he'd have to confess to her that Jun is labeled as taken. "she understand everyone, that's why she's so amazing."

"That's good to hear, but, I'm curious about your feelings with Jun. What are you gonna do now?"

"How should I know?" He really had no clue, Minghao wasn't prepared for something like this to happen and now he had to steer his road into a different direction. What was he gonna do? "Knowing that Jun is dating someone is a shocker, well - not really he's basically boyfriend material. But, I'm just gonna have to get over him some how. It won't be an overnight process but it'll take some time."

"At least you're self-aware."

Minghao sighs, running his fingers through his hair, "I just don't know how i'll cope with them in front of me during lunch. Since they're a couple they'll have to act all - lovey dovey, how will I survive! Unless they want to keep it lowkey...but it still hurts to know."

"Well, can I ask you this?" Wonwoo questions, before proceeding, "It may get a bit personal."

"It doesn't matter anymore, so what is it?"

"Why didn't you confess to Jun? You had multiple chances but..you just never did?"

That's what caught Minghao off guard, he really had no clue himself. There were multiple occasions where everything was perfect and he had the chance to confess. But, he just never did. He didn't know why, nothing really stopped him from saying his words, they simply didn't want to come out. "I..don't have an answer to that," Minghao responds shortly, voice becoming small as he was afraid of what Wonwoo would say next. "I..really don't know?

"I'm sure you would have had a chance," Wonwoo admits, but he doesn't go further into detail because bringing the younger's hopes up are rather too late. "you and Jun had a good relationship with each other. I'm sure he would have considered you."

"Well, it's already too late because now he's taken." Minghao states, there was an obvious hint of disappointment that lingered in his tone. He had his chances, but he blew it. There was nothing more he could add to his story as it would only be mere excuses. Besides, Minghao couldn't be petty towards the couple, no he couldn't - Jun and Hansol are his really good friends so acting like an ass would do him no good.

"I know you really like Jun, but there are other people in this world Hao. The world isn't ending because Wen Junhui is now taken." Wonwoo informs, trying to reassure the boy that he'd surely find love. But, he doesn't answer, the walk was silent and Wonwoo was afraid that he pushed too many buttons, "Hao?"

"I'm gonna go home," Minghao states, "My last two periods are dumb anyways. I'll just call in sick."

Wonwoo doesn't know how to respond to his words, but Minghao is already speeding off away from him. He should have stopped him, asking if he simply wanted to rant and release his true feelings on the situation. But, butting in seemed like a death wish so he left the boy be. "Okay.." He quietly says, but of course, Minghao didn't hear a thing.

♡

The next day, Minghao and his friends sit at the same table as usual. They've claimed it ever since freshman year and it's been their territory ever since that day. After all, they've all written their names on it. Everything was the same, except for the one change that shocked a couple of the boys, which was the news of Jun and Hansol dating. Minghao tried his best to distract himself, talking to Soonyoung and Dokyeom about random things but his eyes couldn't help but trail to the couple who were rather lost in their own world. There was a pang in his heart, a huge tear that wouldn't be fixed with an overnight crying session. Nope, wouldn't do the job at all.

Jun's expression was basically the definition of what being in love was, Hansol returned the same look which made Minghao wanted to dig his own grave even more. That was until Jeonghan snapped a finger in front of his face as he was leaning from the other side of the table. "Ignore them," He quietly scolds, "he's not worth it."

Jeonghan was right, but how could Minghao leave his feelings for Jun just like that? He couldn't stay friends with someone when he obviously wanted to be something more. Minghao was killing himself softly, which was not enjoyable at all. I mean, why would it be? "Jun, you're making a mess you're an actual child."

"I'm your baby."

"You're older than me."

Mingyu cringed by the words being said, "Ugh, guys take it somewhere else. Not all of us want to hear you two flirt." Hansol sticks out his tongue towards the boy, Jun lets out a small giggle in response to his boyfriend's action.

Minghao tried to laugh, it seemed so forced that he had to shut himself up before anyone noticed. He was already aware of the fact that Jun was the observant type, always quiet in situations and watched the group. But, with Hansol by his side he could tell that it would change soon. "Minghao, you okay? I know, dumb question but you seem so blue." Dokyeom whispers to the boy, hating to see him so down.

Minghao nods as a response, but of course he wasn't. "Yeah..don't worry about it." There was no need to lie, he knew that all of his friends would be there for him. But, there was something telling him that it would simply be for the better. "A bit stressed.."

"You struggling with any classes?" He questions, wanting to help if there was anything he could do. "You can always text me if you need help, we do have similar classes."

"I'll keep that in mind." Minghao says, wanting to end the conversation as he was afraid of his eyes giving up on him - which would lead to his tears flowing down in front of everyone. It was something he didn't want, he was trying his best to conceal his emotions although it was the definition of unhealthy. He should be talking it out, he really should.

"Seungkwan's asking if anyone wants to go to the café with him after school." Soonyoung states to the group, a couple of voices respond saying they can't due to other activities. But, Minghao was free and needed something to get his mind off of the two individuals near him.

"I'll come," Minghao responds quickly as he didn't want to miss the offer, "who else is going?"

"Wonwoo said he'd come, Dokyeom would have but that would mean BooSeokSoon and I think it'll be a bit too chaotic." Soonyoung replies, but whether if it was or wasn't BooSeokSoon it would be chaotic regardless of members. "meet at the gate after school and we'll walk together."

The younger male gives him a thumbs up to his instructions, he was hoping things would go well. Because his mind was going crazy.

♡

"And Mr. Hak literally told me to shut up today, isn't that so disrespectful? I mean, of course I did but still! If you're gonna tell me to be quiet, at least tell me politely. I should file a report." Seungkwan explains as they enter the cafe, it was another day in his chemistry class where he got in trouble and none of the boys were surprised. Due to him being an open book, there were times where he can't keep quiet. There was nothing wrong with it, sometimes it just got out of hand. They enter the cafe as Seungkwan continues his story, Minghao was able to get a couple of laughs out of it which lightened up his mood, "Anyways, finally you're smiling. It was so awkward at lunch today, you were pooping on my mood." The younger states to Minghao, punching his shoulder.

"Sorry.."

"Are you sad over Hansol and Jun?" He asks shortly, he receives a nod from the ravenette. Everyone had a feeling that it was because of the recent news brought to them, but Seungkwan only wants confirmation from the boy himself and not to quickly assume. Who knows, he really could have had a tutor emergency. "Forget about Jun, there's a lot of other hot guys in the world."

"He's bummed because Jun was basically his dream guy," Wonwoo adds as they get in line, "wouldn't you feel terrible after hearing the person you've liked for the longest time is now in a relationship? Besides, Minghao was able to connect with Jun first since they both are from China. With Minghao's Korean still improving, Jun was there to help him throughout the way."

"He brings up a good point. Minghao has already said a couple of times that he feels secure when he's with Jun. That's like, a lowkey confession," Soonyoung tells, "I'm still confused by how they got together. Personally I thought you and Hansol had a thing." As the blonde points to the youngest in the group, that being Seungkwan.

"Us?" The boy points to himself and watches as all three of his friends nod their heads slowly. "Just because we're close doesn't mean we have romantic feelings for each other. But, I will admit that it is weird because Hansol has never talked to me about Jun. Or about relationships in general."

"Seems sus.." As Soonyoung puts a finger to his chin, but he was already the next person in line to order so Wonwoo pushes him to the register. Sad to say, he wasn't ready at all to order which would make the situation difficult for both the cashier and him.

Minghao wasn't bothered by the fact that they were pondering over the new relationship of Jun and Hansol, he himself was still questioning how it happened. But, he didn't feel any arising anger in him. He believed at some point he would have tried to shut up Seungkwan and the others about the topic. But, he didn't. Maybe he was coming to the realization that it was time to grasp onto the situation and reveal his thoughts on it. The discussion continued after they ordered their items and settled themselves at a table. "As we wait for our orders to be brought, shall we continue with the tea?" Seungkwan suggests.

"Isn't this gonna damage Hao even more? Just talking about it makes me ache for him and I'm not the one in love with Jun." Wonwoo's input makes the other two think for a bit, "Minghao are you okay with us talking about it?"

Minghao shrugs, he told himself that he should talk his feelings out. Standing in line only minutes ago, he thought this conversation was implying for him to grasp onto everything. But, why was he hesitating now? They could talk..but would he speak the truth? "Yeah, It's okay. Jun and I aren't a possibility anymore."

Soonyoung who sits beside him rubs the boy's back, "You'll find someone Hao, we know it. You don't need Jun in that way."

How do you know that? He should have felt reassured by those comments, but it seemed to only break him more. Minghao didn't have any intention to display the ache that was brought due to their 'comforting' words. He should say something if he was uncomfortable..he should.

"Our orders are here." Seungkwan's voice snapped Minghao out of his thoughts as the waiter caught his eye, he set the items down on their table and left with a smile. "Isn't he cute? Caught his name and it's Chan. I don't think I've seen him around though. Hao, you should shoot your shot."

Minghao takes a small glance towards the waiter, sure, he was attractive. But, he didn't seem near his type. "I'll pass, with a face like his I bet he's already taken."

"You're no fun." Seungkwan pouts, mixing his ice tea with his straw.

"Then you try and score yourself his number." Soonyoung provokes, "If you think he's that attractive."

"I said he was cute!"

Wonwoo rolls his eyes, "You're disturbing the peace. There are other people in this café guys. If you keep this up we're gonna get kicked out." Minghao shortly snickers after hearing his words, but earns a glare from both Soonyoung and Seungkwan. "Eat your food before it gets cold Soonyoung."

"You're not my mom." He stabs his fork into his waffles, stuffing a piece into his mouth quickly, "but, you're right. Cold waffles are gross."

As they ate in silence, it was a comforting time since it wasn't awkward. Though there wasn't much talking, they all were all at ease as delicious food and yummy drinks were filling their stomachs after a long school day. Minghao appreciated moments like these, especially since there were older individuals in the group who'd be leaving soon. The first three to go off to college would be Seungcheol, Joshua and Jeonghan. Though the three were busy with senior work and extra-curriculums, Minghao was hoping they'd all have the time to hang out soon before they go.

"I'm going to the restroom." Soonyoung states, wiping his hands with a tissue. Wonwoo hits him with a, 'you don't have to announce it' statement but he ignores him and heads off. As he's leaving his seat, his back faced the entrance but once he finally caught the people behind him. There his eyes captured Hansol and Jun in line, it didn't seem like they noticed the four boys at the table but he didn't say anything. He quickly went to the restroom and would inform the other three once he returned.

"He seemed to be in a rush. Wonder if he was gonna crap his pants, it is matcha." Seungkwan ponders, after they watched Soonyoung speed off to the toilet.

"Who knows, but I'm sure he'll be saying it was worth it." Minghao inputs, which leads to the other two laughing.

After a couple of minutes, Soonyoung returns  with his hands wet from washing them under the restroom's sink, he's shaking them to where droplets attack Minghao's face which wasn't pleasant to the boy. "Guys, Jun and Hansol are here." He quietly informs, sitting down in his seat as he wipes the remaining liquid from his hands on to his pants. "Don't be obvious, I'm looking at you Seungkwan."

"I'm not, they're literally in the corner of my eye right now." He states, but Minghao doesn't dare to turn around. From the position he was in, that meant that the two boys were standing in line at the moment. "Guys they're coming over what the fuck..." Seungkwan states as he speaks with his teeth pressed against each other.

"They're our friends, act normal.." Wonwoo reminds, and of course the blonde diagonal from him can't help but become more awkward. "Soonyoung you're not making this any better."

Minghao doesn't move, shortly he hears footsteps coming near them and there two familiar figures stand in front of their table. "I didn't know you guys were coming to this café?" Hansol questions, aware that the plans were set during lunch, "well, this one is pretty popular so we should have known."

"Hey guys, Hao." Jun greets, he only states one of the males names and it just had to be Minghao's. He felt a shiver rush against his skin after hearing his name being said. "You okay? You look a bit pale?" The older questions, Hansol then glances over to take a look as well.

"You alright Minghao?" His voice was gentle, but of course, he couldn't answer his question. Because he was far from alright.

"I have to go." Minghao states, impulsively making the decision to leave the group. He couldn't stand it anymore, the fact that Jun was right in front of him - hands interlocked with Hansol's, Jun wasn't a mind reader but Hao believed his crush would be a bit obvious. Especially since everyone except him figured it out on their own. Grabbing his bag, he sets off without another word although he can hear his friends calling for him. It was petty, childish really to just dash off like this. But, how much longer could he endure this? It's only been what, a day. A stupid fucking day and he was already crumbling on the inside.

"You should call him," Hansol suggests, confused to why the boy was in such a rush. "you're the closest to him anyways."

"Ah, seems like a big responsibility. What if I say something wrong?" Jun hesitates, but pulls out his phone from his pocket to search for Minghao's number. Wonwoo tugs on the boy's sweater to grab his attention.

"Don't say anything stupid. There's already too much damage."

Still, the couple didn't understand. Seungkwan and Soonyoung almost bursted due to their dense brains not working. Jun walks away from Hansol, his boyfriend taking Minghao's seat as he decides to step outside for a bit. Minghao's house wasn't far, according to his calculations he could say that the younger probably arrived at his doorstep if his speed was constant. Tapping the phone icon, his device begins to ring within his ear.

Minghao doesn't know what to do, looking at his phone as Jun's name displays on his screen. He was at his front door, key inserted as he was getting ready to bawl his eyes out once he closed the building's entrance. He hesitates, thumb floating above the screen as he's unsure if he should press the green button. But, to not create any more damage he does. "Hello..."

"Hao! Are you alright? Are you feeling sick or something?" Jun's worried tone made Minghao's eyes water, he could feel the scratchy feeling in his throat form. "Hao?"

"I'm fine..." He whispers, only because if he tried to speak his words would simply be incoherent.

"Do you want me to stay on the phone with you? I can do that you know."

"Jun.." He begins to twist his doorknob, entering his empty home quietly. Shutting the door, he allows his bag to drop onto the floor.

"Yes Hao?"

"I have a question for you..."

"Okay! What's up?"

Minghao had so much to say, he knew Jun was patient with everyone so the younger was selfish for a little moment and took his time to think. He knew why he didn't confess to the boy, it was because he lacked courage and the will to speak out his guts. Life gave him so many opportunities to make Jun his, but, he ignored all of them and now he's granted no more. "Jun..."

"Yes Hao?"

Jun was Minghao's world, simple as that. Though the world itself wasn't ending, the one he wanted to create with Jun has. It crumbled terribly, fallen apart to where it's affected Minghao's heart deeply. "I just wanna ask...if the world was ending you'd come over right?..."

"Oh, well that's an odd question."

"Right?"

Jun has no clue what to respond with, he can only give Minghao silence as he thinks. "Minghao I'd—"

Beep! The call suddenly ended and Jun looks at his screen clearly confused as he was looking at Minghao's contact information. He pressed the phone icon again, waiting for his call to go through. But, he received nothing. Minghao on the other hand, refused to answer the phone. He should have waited for Jun's answer, but he couldn't take it no more as he finally broke down. Once the call forwarded to voicemail, Jun records his answer.

"Hao, I know... you know. we know, we weren't meant for each other...and it's fine."

False. It's not that they weren't meant for each other, Minghao's fear of speaking the truth led to the consequence of him losing his chance with Jun. And Jun, concealing his knowledge with an act didn't take the risk to initiative something more with the other.

END