~Yixing~

An involuntary sigh leaves my lips as I walk out of my final class for the day. I only have an hour to get to work. Siwon is letting me come in and help open the club to pick up a few hours since I'll be gone this weekend.

Today has been working out to be a pretty good and productive day. I even felt a bit of the stress I had been feeling recently, roll off my shoulders.

That stress has come back tenfold, however. Tugging tightly at the nerve at the base of my skull and pulsing down my neck to my shoulders, the second I walk out of class and see who is waiting for me.

"What are you doing here?" I ask, balancing my books from one arm to the other.

Junmyeon smirks and pushes himself off the wall, silently dismissing my obvious discontent at his presence. "I missed you. I'm going to be a bit busy this weekend, so I won't be able to see you."

A part of me, a deep, disillusioned part of me, sings at his words. The very idea that Junmyeon was waiting for me, in the hopes that he'd see me, if only for a moment. That he missed me to the point of seeking me out before his business takes up his time. My heart pushes against my rib cage, as if attempting to break free and give itself over to this man in front of me on its own accord.

My head. The smart, reasonable part, however, forces it back into its place. Carefully chaining it, securing it safely in the hallow area of my chest. I had made the decision to walk away, to give up on Junmyeon, and though he's making it excruciatingly hard, I'm still firm in my choice.

Of course I've wavered at times. Of course I've wanted to give in and stay by Junmyeon's side. But in the end, the main problem remained. Junmyeon and I don't fit into each other's worlds. He's better off finding someone on his level, and he'll realize that, even if i need to make him hate me for him to do so.

I release another sigh and shake my head in frustration "I don't have time for this, Junmyeon. I have to be at work soon, then I'm heading out of town."

"Really? Where are you going?" Junmyeon asks, his eyes almost seeming to harden. "Who are you going with? Sehun?"

"Being a little too invasive aren't we?"

Junmyeon chuckles in a harsh tone, his eyes hardening. "Says the man who followed me around for over a year."

That jolts me a bit and I feel the instant shame that seems to be constantly hanging around whenever Junmyeon is near. This only reaffirms my point. We're not good for one another. After what I did, a demented breach of privacy and security, I don't even deserve the nice way he talks to me, let alone a chance to be in his life.

I wish Junmyeon would see this as clearly as i do, though. I can't help but sit back and think about how quickly things changed, about how fast things flipped. I was once the one following and obsessing over this man, but now he's the one who can't seem to leave me alone.

Clearly, he's not someone who's used to not getting what he wants. Such petty things, like pride and lack of understanding are things I️ abandoned long ago. The distance between us just gets longer and longer.

"How many times do you need me to apologize for what I did?" I ask, feeling my patience waning more and more.

Junmyeon makes an expression like that was the last thing he wants to hear. "I don't want you to appol-" he stops, and gears seem to be turning in his head. "Actually... Yixing, you can make it up to me."

I instantly get a tugging feeling at the pit of my stomach and I know I'm going to regret this. But I need my guilt to be cleared. I need this dark mark off of my conscience.

"Give me three dates. Actual dates, where you try to let go and enjoy yourself. Put forth effort like a real date." Junmyeon says, smirking like this is the best idea he's ever pulled out of his ass.

I take a deep breath, mulling this over. It's only three dates. But it's Junmyeon. Whenever I get around him all intelligent thoughts disappear and I find myself acting like a fumbling idiot most of the time. How am I supposed to sit through three actual dates and try my best to impress him, when I'm supposed to be pushing him away?

"You're insane, aren't you?" I question, shifting my books in my arms again.

Junmyeon grins, amused at my nearly rude remark. "Only when in your presence, Zhang Yixing." He says my full name with almost impressive Beijing dialect.

My knees tremble and I swallow thickly, forcing myself to look away quickly. "Fine. Three dates. Then we go our separate ways and never diverge ever again."

Junmyeon smirks, like he's holding on a secret the rest of the world is clueless to. "Of course, Yixing."

I shake my head and turn away, leaving him standing in the hallway. "Quit saying my name like that." I call over my shoulder.

His answering, smug chuckle, only proves to piss me off, and makes my heart skip a beat all at the same time.

>>>

~Junmyeon~

Yixing stares me down, his eyes blankly glaring into mine as I sit at the bar, while he drys a glass with a towel.

"I'm counting this." Yixing says after a beat. "Two more left, Mr. Kim."

I force my blood to slow at the excitement of being called by a formal name from his delicate, dark red lips.

Yixing's been needlessly acting cold and distant from me, but I️ can see right through him. I️ know there's more behind this masquerade he is insisting on putting up. Yixing may be an excellent actor, but his eyes can't lie. No matter how harsh he acts, he'll never hide from me. His smugness just makes me want to bend him over this bar and beat it out of him, to force out the Yixing I️ know, but I push that need down. I can't think about Yixing in such ways. The man is too innocent for my world, so I️ think I'll let him hide for a while longer. He'll come out on his own accord eventually.

"That's not fair." I defend, not really that affected. I️ could make Yixing mine in one date, the three are just technicalities. "We're both going to be otherwise detained this weekend and I wanted to spend time with you. I'm allotted contact outside of the dates."

"Spending time with me counts as a date. You can 'contact' me all you want, but I'll count it as a date every time." Yixing deadpans, clearly not budging on this.

I scoff, my blood running quickly at the challenge Yixing presents to me. I usually hate to be fought, but from Yixing, it's exciting. "This is hardly a date. Dates require formality. I pick you up, take you to a lovely restaurant. We're both dressed in attractive attire. And we spend the evening having engaging in pleasant conversation. This is not a date."

Yixing raises an eyebrow. "You brought me food and you're sitting across from me, 'engaging' me in conversation. It's a date. Not everyone has the time or money to live out a scene from a romantic movie, Junmyeon. Some of us take what we can get."

I sit back, slightly impressed by his debating skills, but slightly irritated at the same time. I'm a simple guy, but I'm also used to getting my way. Yixing is the type to not budge when it comes to his decisions. This man is the most insufferable, yet exciting person I've ever met.

I sigh and cross my arms. "Fine, we'll count it. But you actually need to eat." I say motioning to the food I had picked up for him.

Yixing gave me an overview of his schedule earlier, but not once did he mention eating. I've noticed over my observations that Yixing tends to forget to take care of himself. He's always worried about taking care of others that his own needs fall to the back burners.

Yixing is going to put himself in an early grave if he keeps working and pushing himself the way he is.

He fixes me with an incredulous and hesitant look. Always so stubborn.

I lift my eyebrow and push the bag closer to him. "Eat." I order, not even attempting to hide the order in the form of a suggestion.

Yixing visibly swallows and submits quickly, and I try to not look too smug about it. The way this man bows to me at times, it sends a pleasant shiver up my spine.

>>>>>

~Yixing~

I find Kyungsoo in his room, seeming to be mentally going through a checklist of his things. Kyungsoo's always been such a level headed, practical person. Someone I've always known to keep his wits in moments of panic, or disaster. I remember last semester when Baekhyun had set the bathroom on fire trying to conduct an 'experiment' with bathroom cleaning chemicals. Everyone had flipped out, not knowing how to properly put out a chemical fire. Not Kyungsoo, though. He calmly stepped in and put it out with a chemical fire extinguisher, that I didn't even know we had.

Kyungsoo's always been a sure footed person, but recently... he seems a bit lost. Actually, everyone in the house seems a bit lost.

"All ready?" I ask, making Soo jump. I hold up my hand. "Sorry."

Kyungsoo gives me a short smile and sakes his head. "It's alright. I was just lost in my head, I guess."

I nod. Understanding completely. That seems to be going around a lot lately.

"How about we have a long talk in the car on the way?" I suggest.

Kyungsoo's eyes seem to lighten up a bit, and he nods slightly. He relaxes in an almost relieving sort of way. "I can't wait."

He turns around and starts zipping up his bags. I watch as that familiar tension, as the same I've been feeling, pulls at his shoulders and upper back. I sigh and walk over to him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Kyungsoo jumps a little, but doesn't seem bothered by the touch. The other has always been hesitant and slightly uncomfortable with physical contact. He's never seemed to shy away from me though, and for that, i'm thankful.

It doesn't stop me from being careful. My hand rests conscientiously on his shoulder. "Soo... everything will be okay. I know things are hard right now, but it'll pass soon. You'll see. Everything will be ok."

I notice the hitch in his breath, and the small shake in his shoulders. I sigh and give him one last pat, picking his bags up off the bed. "I'll be waiting down by the car. Come when you're ready."

Kyungsoo nods, releasing a short shaky breath, and i know he needs some time alone. I leave him be with his thoughts, and head downstairs, hoping this weekend will be a good break for both of us.

.....

I shut the back trunk to the rental car Sehun and i had just loaded with our things. I turn and sigh at what I find in front of me: Sehun bounces on the balls of his feet, chewing at his lip anxiously.

I hate this. Sehun usually comes with me, and i know he hates not being able to be there this time, but circumstances prevent his presence. I understand it, but it doesn't mean i'm any less against the idea of being there without my right hand man.

"Hunnie. It'll be fine. Soo will be with me the whole time." I say lowly, attempting to add a calming register for the ball of stress standing before me.

Sehun finally meets my eyes and I can see the depth in his anxiety. "I don't like you going without me. I should be the one next to you."

I nod and reach out, caressing the young, innocent boy. Sehun always been my rock on things like this. Where I lack confidence, he has a controlled ease at which he holds himself. Where I lack accommodation, Sehun is capable of going with the flow. Where I lack reality, Sehun has always been there to protect and guid me.

Sehun leans into the touch and I watch him visibly relax, much to my relief.

"I can cancel and..." Sehun says suggestively, but I stop him by placing my finger over his lips.

"Don't even think about it." I say, feeling my heart pull at the crushed look on his face. "It'll be fine, Hunnie. Trust me, okay?"

Sehun stares into my eyes for a second, before closing his eyes and nodding. Clearly accepting the circumstances, his shoulders sag in defeat. I make a mental note to plan ahead next time, and make sure the younger is by my side. I drop my hands, but grab Sehun's, giving them a quick squeeze.

"Come on, you two. Enough of the sad goodbyes. It's only two full days." Kyungsoo calls, coming out of the house.

Sehun sighs, and pulls me into a tight hug. "Please be safe. You know how you are in crowds, so keep to the outskirts. Watch out for creeps. Stay with Soo the whole time. And please, please keep your phone on you."

I nod and I wrap my arms around his waist, pressing my lips against his shoulder. "I know, Hunnie. I know."

Kyungsoo chuckles as he passes us, and makes his way around to the drivers side of the car.

"Please take care of him." Sehun says, stopping Kyungsoo before he climbs into the car.

Kyungsoo meets Sehun's gaze and gives him a short nod, before getting in and closing the door. Giving us a bit of privacy for a second.

"Text me the second you get there." Sehun commands, pulling away and grasping my shoulders like a mother would a child.

I grab his arms and give him my best understanding expression. I'm not even close to upset about Sehun talking to me like he's the older one. I know how he feels. We've been doing this together for years and this is the first time Sehun's not coming with me since he became my little partner in crime.

It'll be hard without the young kid beside me, but I know him staying behind is the best for him. He needs to face this and stand on his own for once.

Sehun will be okay, and so will I. We can't be each other's crutch forever, though i know we'll always be there to hold the other up when we need it... i just hope Sehun can stand on his own after what he's about to do.

>>>>>

~Junmyeon~

A shiver runs up my spine as a hooded figure walks out onto the small stage at the front of the room. An anticipated hush falls over the room, just before the enchanting, and hypnotic drum melody starts. The man holds up his hand, drawling us in further, then quickly brings it down at the same time the red satin curtain behind him drops to the floor. Exhilaration flows into my bones and my breath catches as the scene he'll be working with today stands proud on the stage behind him. He shares only a few words of explanation for what he'll do today, then quickly gets to work on his presentation. His introduction is always simple, yet commanding. That deep, husky tone washes over the demonstration room, demanding submission. For someone like The Master, i'd be more than happy to give it.

"I'd bottom bitch daily for that man." Minho leans in and comments in my ear, nearly echoing my own thoughts.

I push down the need to growl, but i really don't have to. Minho knows my deep rooted obsession, and even possesiveness with The Master.

The Master is the whole reason i got into the scene. The master is... well, a literal master in our world. He's a dominate presence, but he's also a ghost. The Master operates mostly from the underground, and he actually hasn't made a debut within the scene in a year or so. So when i found out that he was going to make his grand reappearance at this years expo, not only doing a crowd demonstration, but presenting one of the items from his newest collections, i instantly booked my spot. And clearly by the limited space in this decently sized room, i wasn't the only one who was anxiously awaiting his reemergence.

The Master kind of disappeared, but his fan base, as well as merchandise has only increased tenfold. It seems that in the time that he's been on a hiatus, his productivity has doubled. New toys, designs for gear, and even a new brand of rope that is perfect for suspension. It's hard to find perfect rope that supply's both comfort and durability. The Master always delivers, though. I have five bundles from that collection as well as a few of his newest toy designs that i'm more than impressed with. It makes me wonder if maybe he's employed some people behind the scenes. A new creative team that's bringing in a fresh and interesting twist on The Masteres classic merchandise.

When i had first developed an interest in these things, i was nineteen. The master had just appeared on the scene two years prior, but he had already made a name for himself. The first time i had seen him on stage, though, sealed me in for the rest of my life. I knew after watching him work ropes, chains, and crafted leather like a tailor works a needle and thread, i'd never be able to simply live a normal life. My inner dominant craves everything The Master has... everything he exhibits.

"What would you do, if your god turned out to be a woman?" Minho asks, his voice dripping with amusement.

That's another thing about The Master. No one's ever seen him. His identity is completly unknown to the scene, as he always wears a dark robe with a hood, covering his body and head. And he also wears a dark mask, covering his eyes, and face. He's a complete mystery, which only adds to his allure.

I smirk and glance sideways at my friend. "Then i'd drop to my knees and address her as mistress."

Minho rolls his eyes and scoffs. "You're no better than an obedient house pet."

I glance down at the boy sitting subserviently at Minho's feet. The collar resting snugly around his neck, now adorned with a new sparkly tag with his name on it. I wonder what Taemin had to have done to receive that as a reward... then again, i probably don't want to know.

"I thought you liked obedience?" I ask with an insinuating tone.

Minho narrows his eyes at me, reaching down to pet Taemin on the head. Taemin leans into it, attentively rubbing his cheek into Minho's palm. That type of loyalty. That type of submission. It can't be reached without ultimate trust.

I lie to myself about not being jealous over their relationship, and focus on the devastatingly mystifying man at the front of the room. He's currently demonstrating one of his newest products, one that i actually just received in the mail a few days ago. I have yet to use it, but it's exciting to get a first hand look at it's intended operation.

I'm enamored by the techniques of The Master. His control. His confidence. His certainty. He exhibits everything I covet; everything I wish to become.

"What's he doing here?" Minho's low voice, questions into my ear.

Minho discreetly points across the room, forcing me to pry my eyes away from the brilliance of the man on stage. I follow Minho's finger towards someone I never expected to see here.

My breath catches and I stare at the man, who is intently watching the stage.

"What is Kyungsoo doing here?" I ask, almost appalled to see not only a classmate, but one of Yixing's good friends here.

Minho shakes his head, also seeming a bit complexed by the males presence. I chew at my lip, wondering if I should make my presence known, or if he would prefer animosity.

"I wonder who came with him?" Minho asks again, gesturing to the man standing next to Kyungsoo. His full, yet slender build seems a bit familiar, but I can't put my finger on it.

The man and Kyungsoo seem to be having an in-depth, hushed conversation. The man stands about a head taller than my classmate, and has inky black hair. They seem to be having a discussion about the presentation and a part of me would love to be over there, listening in to what they have to say.

I shrug it off however. It's been a long time since The Master has done a live action and I refuse to miss this. I'll just have to catch up with Kyungsoo later.

I turn my attention back to the stage, watching the master weave his own special kind of magic, entrancing me once again.

......

The aura around me, sends electric pulses through my body. I️ watch the exhibit floor. Booths with hand crafted, top of the line materials, and toys fill the space. This is like Comic-Con for the kinky people of the world and it never fails to amaze me. People from every walk of life, every kink, even the ones that usually hide in the shadows seem to come to life and celebrate their lives with pride. A furry walks by me, hand and hand with his assumed master and gives me a smile. I️ return it and feel a calm settle over me.

I️ understand exactly how they all feel, because I️ feel the same. You can be yourself here. You can be free in a way we're not able to usually. Even in the underground's, you never know what could happen, so you set up a careful guard to protect your identity and safety. And that only lasts for so long, a momentary relief. But here, everyone just wants to have fun and openly be themselves. It's a whole weekend devoted to our kind.

Usually the rest of the world shames the kink world, forcing us to hide away, but here, we're able to breath fresh air. This is our element, surrounded by like minded people, who refuse to judge because they've lived their lives being on the receiving end of that judgment. Not a single person here has a harsh word to say, (at least none that don't come with a safe word attached) and they'll welcome you with open arms. I️ breath for these three days, and I️ refuse to spend them as Kim Junmyeon, aire to the Kim fortune and billion dollar company.

I️ stand back and watch my people flutter about the floor, laughter, and excited chatter calling above the crowd. Appearances don't have to be made here. Putting forth my best possible impression isn't needed. It's so reliving in a sense to not have anyone care about my damn name.

A small smile pulls at my lips as soon as I️ see the small, yet full figure of my classmate enter the main floor. He heads straight for the food, causing me to chuckle, and follow. I️ waste no time and tap my classmate on the shoulder. Usually I'd be more concerned over protecting Kyungsoo's privacy, but he seems exceptionally comfortable here and doesn't seem to care about being seen.

Kyungsoo turns to me with wide eyes, half a roll hanging out of his mouth. He stares at me for a second, before his eyes widen further when they make the connection of who I am. Resisting the urge to chuckle at his expression, I give him a polite smile and bow, allowing him to finish the particularly large bite of bread before addressing him verbally.

"Hello, Kyungsoo" I say, pleasantly.

"Shit." Kyungsoo whispers under his breath, clearly not meant for me to hear, but I don't miss it for a second. I don't give any light to it, though, I would feel the same if I was a first timer and ran into a classmate here. Kyungsoo audibly gulps, and looks extremely uncomfortable before composing himself and gives me a neutral regards. "Hello, Junmyeon."

I laugh lightly. "Please, call me Suho here. Animosity."

Kyungsoo nods, seeming to understand completely. "Of course, Suho."

"This didn't really seem like your scene, but it doesn't surprise me too much. You never know what people hide away under their beds, or in their closets." I insinuate.

Kyungsoo bites at his lip, almost seeming to hide a small smile on his lips. "I'm not really too into things like this. Don't get me wrong, i love a good 'tie me to the bed' session, and i dabble with the occasional need to dominate or be dominated, but this isn't my thing. I'm just here with a friend."

I raise an eyebrow at that. "Oh?"

Kyungsoo rolls his eyes, but thankfully doesn't appear offended. "That's why i hate coming to these things. A friend can't just be a friend here. All of the people here assume that everyone is fucking everyone."

I chuckle and nod. "Sorry about that. This community tends to be extremely open about sex and sexual exploits. We don't mean any harm, but nine times out of ten... everyone is fucking everyone."

Kyungsoo seems amused and smirks slightly. It looks good on him, and i briefly wonder what he'd look like in a dominant role. With the proper amount of training and conditioning, Kyungsoo would be a natural. I make a mental note to get to know the owlet a little more, and move on past that idea.

"So, this friend of yours... do they go to school with us? Any chance of you letting me in on who it is?" I ask, voicing my curiosity.

Minho and Taemin are the only two other people on campus that i know of who actively participate within the scene. That's actually how i met them. I was just shopping around in a local underground dungeon, when i happened upon those two idiots and ended up making two of my closest friends. Actually, they're probably my only true friends. It's hard to be real and close to people when you have to hide one of the biggest parts of yourself.

Kyungsoo gives me an incredulous expression and shakes his head. "Easy there, Mr. Animosity. Yes, they go to our university, but they're rather private about these things."

I nod, and bow politely in apology. "Of course. I completly understand. Excuse my intrusive behavior."

The other blinks at me slightly stunned. "I-it's alright. Damn, i can see why Yixing became slightly obsessed with you. You just dazzled the crap out of me."

My expression falters slightly, before i can catch it. Kyungsoo doesn't miss it for a second, but brings no attention to it, and grabs a handful of grapes off of the buffet style food table. He's definitely someone to be careful around.

"About Yixing..." i start, but Kyungsoo stops me in my tracks by giving me a look that dares not to be argued against. Most certainly someone to keep an eye on.

"Are you actually fishing for information on one of my closest friends?" He asks, his eyes twinkling with delight filled mischief.

I sigh, fixing my rolled up shirt sleeves. "Depends... are you willing to give it to me?"

Kyungsoo smiles, his whole face crinkling into one of the cutest smiles I've ever seen. "Listen, i could probably sit here and tell you Yixing's life story, but in all honestly, that's not what you want."

"It's not?"

"No, what you want is for me to give you the secret. The ultimate cheat code for getting into Yixing's heart." Kyungsoo deadpans.

I nod lightly, unable to argue. That's exactly what i want. Around every turn, Yixing never fails to push me away. Always fights me on every attempt i make at gaining any ground. Maybe a little bit of understanding about Yixing's inter-workings will give me a steppingstone.

Kyungsoo takes a deep breath and tilts his head. "To make this as short and sweet as possible. Yixing is a simple person, with simple needs. He's sensitive and so full of love, he doesn't know an enemy. He's also the type of person who's humble to a fault. Yixing doesn't know his own strengths, even when they're blatantly obvious to everyone else."

"Okay, point?" I ask, wondering what exactly Kyungsoo's trying to get at.

The other man smiles as if he has a secret he'll never tell. "Yixing is a literal angel, with a terrible self esteem. He'll never consider the two of you a possibility because he'll never think you're on his level. I know you're used to impressing people and getting your way with your money and power, but that's not going to work on our baby Yixing. He needs to see the human side of you, the side that he can actually see existing in his world. Quit trying to pull him up to you, and bend down for him a bit."

I take a deep breath, letting his words hit me square in the chest. Of course Yixing wouldn't be the type to accept being bought. Yixing is a man of simplicity and humility. He needs someone to prove their humanity to him before he will ever accept them any other way. I think back to Yixing's words yesterday "Not everyone has the time or money to live out a scene from a romantic movie, Junmyeon. Some of us take what we can get." They make tremendously more sense now.

"I'm not very good at bending. I very obviously like control, and power." I say, motioning to our surroundings, to further my point about my life being centered around regulation and order.  "I'm not saying it's impossible, just something i don't have a lot of practice in."

"Listen, Xing hasn't had the easiest of lives. Everything he has, he's worked his ass off for. He came to Korea with barely anything and worked his way up. He lives simply and won't let anyone distract him from what he wants, and definitely won't accept anyone whom he thinks doesn't understand his struggles. It's kind of why he's so close to all of his fraternity brothers. We've all experienced struggles and know what it's like to feel lacking." Kyungsoo levels me with a serious look, one that roots me in my place and refuses to welcome anything but my full attention. "I don't want to assume anything, but i get the feeling you've never had to want for anything before, or that you've never had to endure hardships that cripple your entire foundation before."

Again, i can't argue with him. Kyungsoo is entirely correct. I'm not exceedingly proud that I've lived a pampered, sheltered life, but it's still the life I've lived. It's a part of who i am, and I make no excuses for it. But Yixing hasn't. Yixing's been through a lot in his short amount of years, and though i may not know the details, he has the face and heart of someone who's felt and survived through pain and sorrow.

"I've never had to experience such things, that is true, but it doesn't mean i can't sympathize." I explain.

Kyungsoo's lips twitch up at the corner, gently agreeing "I know. That's why i'm still standing here. I wouldn't be wasting my time on someone I don't believe is good for Yixing. You've never had to directly struggle, but you're willing to understand and adapt. That's what Yixing needs. Someone who's willing to meet him half way, someone who's willing to bend a little."

I lower my head, furrowing my brows a bit and nod lightly. I get it. I really understand what Kyungsoo is saying to me. It's just the execution that's hard. I've been taught my whole life to stand up tall, to never bend for anyone. How exactly am i supposed to meet someone half way, when I've had everyone crawling to me on their knees my whole life?

"Kyungsoo... We should sit down and have a talk sometime." I say, letting an easy smirk take over my lips.

Kyungsoo graces me with a deep, amused laugh, and reaches out squeezing my shoulder. His hand firm and almost demanding. "Anytime, Suho."

I shake my head and slightly squint my eyes. "Seriously, are you sure this isn't your scene?"

The other mans smirk deepens and he squeezes my shoulder again. "You never know. Perceptions change. Sometimes you discover things about yourself that you didn't even know about if you look deep enough."

He gifts me with a wink and leaves me staring after him, as he walks across the room. Just as he reaches the exit doors, someone comes in. I believe I recognize them as the person who was standing with Kyungsoo earlier during the demonstration. They talk in hushed voices, and when Kyungsoo glances over at me, his face holds a slight panic and concern to it. The other person looks as well, their eyes covered with thick sunglasses and a hoodie hood pulled up tight around their head. I look harder and again find something eerily familiar about the mystery person, and for a second I feel like our eyes lock, entrapped in a staring match. A chill goes up my spine and I can't extinguish the burning curiosity of whose behind those thick sunglasses. The other person jumps and turns away from me, his shoulders trembling lightly.

I sigh sympathetically. Such a newbie, it's almost cute.

The other person seems slightly shaken by someone he knows being here. I would give anything to go over and assure them that they don't have to worry about my desecration, but that would probably only make their anxiety worse. Kyungsoo glances at me once again, and i bow at him, which he smiles and returns, understanding my meaning. I'll be completly respectful and distant, to give them privacy. I was new to the scene once too, so i know what it feels like to want to hide away.

I watch Kyungsoo drag the other person, who's now curled in on themselves out of the main hall. I almost feel bad for them, and chuckle slightly at their cute nervousness.

"What was that about?" Minho comes up beside me, tugging Taemin behind with his sparkly leash.

I chuckle. "The guy who was with Kyungsoo must be a newbie. It seems Soo came to support his friend."

Minho smiles and nods. "That's nice of him. Disappointing too. I was hoping to get Kyungsoo into our little group. I've had my eyes on him for a while now."

I smirk and remember the small telling gestures and words that just breathed control and dominance. "I wouldn't give up too quickly. You know anyone can be swayed with the right amount of convincing."

Minho returns my smirk and turns towards the snack table, picking up a chocolate covered strawberry and feeding it to Taemin, who is currently vibrating with happiness. That boy was made to be a submissive. "Exactly, which is why i don't know how you have decided that Yixing won't fit into this world. Anyone can fit when you find their proper measurements."

"I don't want to measure him, Minho. I want..." I release an apathetic sounding sigh. "Even i don't know what i want at this point."

Minho gives me a serious and pitying look for once, instead of his usual smug, amused one. "Figure it out soon, Jun. Yixing doesn't seem like the type of guy to wait around."

I take a deep breath and glance over at Taemin. The boy gives me a leery expression but doesn't voice his concerns. Obviously he's been warned about behaving and respecting other dominants. I move closer to Taemin and observe him quietly for a second, until it's clear his anxiety is getting the best of him. Taemin reaches out and grabs my shirt with a shaky grasp, and whines softly.

I chuckle softly and pet him between the expensive looking ears pinned to his hair "sorry, Tae. I was just observing. I'm not asking for your submission."

Taemin peeks up, looking me in the eyes, before snapping his head to Minho. The man watches us carefully, not in the slightest phased by what just happened. Actually, if anything, he seems intrigued. In another time I would have pushed further, and investigated this new development. But my radar, and desires have seemed to have shifted to a more specific direction. Careless and unattached isn't my taste any longer.

"Actually, Minnie. I need you to help me with a few things." I say, getting a sudden idea.

Taemin was placed on this earth to submit. He didn't have the easiest starts in life, and has also worked his ass off to get to his place, but he also lives his days as the personal 'pet' of my best friend, and seems perfectly content doing so. Being pampered and taken care of are his favorite things, but he also grasps tightly at his independence and continues to work hard. If anyone knows what is needed to bend, it's him.

Taemin glances apprehensively at his master, who gives him a permissing nod, curious in his own right. The younger, still grasping onto my shirt, gives me a curious head tilt, silently asking.

I smile and tug at the leash connecting my two friends "I want to know how to bend, Tae. I'm not getting anywhere with power and control. I want you to teach me how to submit."

>>>>

"Yixing"

"Are you okay?" Kyungsoo's worried voice floats over to me, a little too loud for the small space inside the car.

I glance over, taking notice of just how hard he's gripping the steering wheel and I realize that I haven't said a word since we left.

I breath in deeply and run my still trembling hands on my jeans. "Yeah, sorry... I just... I had no idea... I just.."

Kyungsoo risks a short glance at me, the concern deep rooted in his eyes. "I'm sorry, Xing. I should have warned you."

"He looked right at me. He looked right at me, and I swear I saw recognition. Kyungsoo, I don't... I'm so confused." I say, dropping my head into my hands.

I feel a hand on my back, rubbing gently. "Listen, he promised me discretion. He won't say anything about seeing us there, and honestly, I don't even think he recognized you. He would have made a big deal out of it if he had."

"What was he even doing there?" I ask, wildly. My brain seems to be completely short circuiting.

Kyungsoo sighs and rubs my back more soothingly. Interchangeable patterns, relaxing me. "Isn't it obvious? You've spent more time with him than I have, but think about the way he holds himself, the way he conducts his daily activities. Is it really that surprising?"

I swallow thickly and sit back up, looking over to Kyungsoo. He has a point. Junmyeon is all about control, about expressing his power. So many things, like his reaction to my small submissions, the demands he expects me to automatically follow, and even the way he dotes on me like a overbearing  mother.

"Is... is he cultivating me as a potential sub." I️ ask, confused by this latest possible development.

The slight smile touching Soo's lips, tells me he knows something, but I know he won't tell me. Kyungsoo will only tell you things on his time, when he's ready. Try to force it out, and you risk making an enemy. I'd rather not live my life with Kyungsoo against me like Baekhyun does.

"But Junmyeon... a dominant?" I ask, completely bewildered.

Kyungsoo shrugs and his smirk deepens. "You never know what people hide away under their beds, or in their closets."

I shake my head. This changes things. I was so worried about tainting him with my lifestyle, about him being pushed into my dark, twisted little world. Like I️ said, Junmyeon and I️ didn't fit into each other's lives. It's the reason I pushed him away so hard, not even contemplating the idea of friendship. All of my closest friends know of my alternative lifestyle, even dabbling in it a bit themselves, but I could never imagine being friends with someone who doesn't know one of the biggest parts of me.

"Maybe Junmyeon and I are more compatible than I previously thought." I voice.

Kyungsoo raises an eyebrow and risks another peek at me. "Are you going to let him woo you then?"

I roll my eyes and chuckle at his word choices. "Of course not. Junmyeon is still drastically out of my reach. Our worlds just don't clash, and I can never be on his level. But friendship is definitely a possibility. It's always refreshing to make friends in the scene."

Kyungsoo smiles his secret little smile again and shakes his head. "Don't be quick to write him off so quickly, Xing. People can surprise you."

I lean towards the car door and critically assess the man next to me. "What do you know, Soo?"

Kyungsoo chuckles and eyes me out of his peripherals. "I'm just saying, Yixing. You of all people should know not to underestimate someone."

I blink steadily and take those words to heart. Kyungsoo isn't a man to say meaningless things, or comforting things with no substance. If Kyungsoo tells you something, it's because you need to hear it. Maybe I should give Junmyeon a chance to prove me wrong. Maybe I should be a bit more flexible. But is it really possible for a man who's used to standing on the peek of the highest mountain to meet the man who's been living at the base, half way?

>>>>>>>>>>>>

Chickens!!

My lovelies, heres the highly anticipated SuLay. I know you guys probably have a great deal of questions, and you're free to private message me with them, it I️ can't guarantee you'll get answers. Trust me, on most of his, it's easier if you guys just wait and see what happens. Also, if you guys get ideas or think you've figured out what's exactly going to happen, please keep it to yourself for now. If some of you do figure some things out, please don't ruin it for other readers. Thank you.

Also, how are you guys taking the fact that Yixing is a part of the scene? That the world Junmyeon is trying to keep him away from, is already a part of Yixing's? Interesting right. Keep reading, it gets better.

I can't really say too much without giving away secrets, so that's all for this note. This chapter is dedicated to AlwaysLay , because she's been feeling a bit under the weather, and I️ figured she could use a dose of Yixing in her life. Send her some love, guys. Get better soon, baby. 😘 Also, HunHan is up next. See you then.

Kisses! ❤️😘

사랑해 💕

~M~