Archive of Our Own

Hoseok knew how this would go.

He knew the dangers, the inevitable nagging feeling of death clawing at him every time he hopped into the car. He knew and studied the percentages, the chance that he wouldn’t make it, that he’d end up on the side of the road somewhere, lucky if they found even his finger during the aftermath. But he also knew the excitement, the thrill that came with the rush of the wind caressing his face as he sped down the tracks. The adrenaline that pumped through his bones and the sense of freedom, the sense of happiness he felt, as for one moment, he was in control. He knew the tracks, his car like he knew the palm of his hands. He knew the game, knew how to play it better than anyone and he knew how to win. And he was gonna win today, despite the piercing brown eyes belonging to a certain man he could feel blazing into him.

He turned, scoffing slightly, holding the man’s gaze, neither wanting to be the first to look away.

Yoo Kihyun.

Hoseok didn’t know what god forsaken underground cave he crawled out from, but in just under a month he’d made a name for himself on the scene. Fiery red car a statement to his equally as fiery temper. Hoseok didn’t know someone could be a walking contradiction until he met Yoo Kihyun; tiny Yoo Kihyun with dusty, soft looking brown hair and hint of metallic brown eyeshadow and pink lips, kissable pink lips. Yoo Kihyun that looked like he belonged on the cover of Baby Boy Weekly, not tearing down the streets, sadistic smile on his face without a care in the world.

Kihyun leaned casually against his car, daring Hoseok to make the first move, to look away first, infamous smile carefully placed on his lips. He was good. Hoseok couldn’t deny that. He’d watch Kihyun race, studied his flawless technique, though different to Hoseok's, he couldn’t deny there was a certain art to the way Kihyun moved on the road. Confident, cocky, and sure. He liked to take risks; drifting through bends others would carefully approach, bending the rules to get his way if that was what it took. He was good, but Hoseok was better.

“Y’all gonna continue fucking with your eyes?”

Hoseok sighed, reluctantly breaking eye contact with Kihyun. He turned to Hyunwoo, eyebrows raised and lips downturned into a frown. “You made me look away first, man.”

“What are you, four? Salazar says to get in position.” Hyunwoo informed. He leaned against Hoseok's car, fingered gloves tapping mindlessly on the hood as he surveyed the road ahead.

“What’s up?”

“I dunno, new tracks jitters.”

“You ain’t the one riding.” Hoseok answered.

“Nah but my best friend is. This is an entire new territory Seok, and Kihyun, Ty, they don’t play by the rules.”

“And I do?”

“No. But you knew the tracks. Had them mapped out.”

“I’ll be fine.”

“Yeah? Salazar’s got everything on you. You come last and-”

“How many bets on me?”

Hyunwoo sighed, eyes drifting to Kihyun.

“He got more bets huh.” Hoseok stated.

He smiled, watching Kihyun as he talked with his ‘fans’; the same people that’d have been begging for even a sliver of Hoseok's attention in the past. Kihyun, with his cocky smirk as he ran his hands through his hair, no care in the world.

“I’ll be back Hyunwoo.” He said.

Ignoring the buzzing in the back of his mind, he climbed into his car, feeling the immediate calm his car, being behind the wheel always brought him. He smiled, fingers stroking the beige wheel leather covers. He veered towards the starting line, tuning everything but the sound of his car out. Unknown territory didn’t matter, Kihyun didn’t matter. He knew how to drive, he knew what taking risks meant, what danger meant, he knew how to survive. And he knew his car. Nothing else mattered. He stared at his left side mirror, grinning and sticking his tongue out at Hyunwoo.

“I’m gonna win.” He muttered.

With Salazar sticking out his neck for him, he had no choice.

He turned to his side, saw Kihyun watching him, unreadable expression on his face and Hoseok smiled, facing the road. 10 minutes, all he needed was 10 minutes to prove himself, to remind Kihyun, Salazar, every last of his ‘fans’ who the true king of the road was. He could hear the countdown timer in the back of his mind, the sound seemingly hammered into his skull. Just a few more seconds and he’d have to move. His one and only competition that night was Kihyun.

Ty, Jacob, none of them mattered. He could beat them easy. But Kihyun, Kihyun was an entire different breed even if Hoseok wouldn’t admit it. If he was going to beat Kihyun he’d have to put all his cards on the table, take more risks, and bend the rules even more. The crowd slowly surrounding the area knew too, that it was really a match between Kihyun and Hoseok. Their tension, the anticipation had been bubbling for weeks. Newcomer Kihyun against the legend Hoseok at a track neither was familiar with. Salazar had spent a fortune on it too and he was determined to gain that fortune back either through Kihyun or Hoseok. Hoseok knew what was at play here for him. Salazar’s favour was hard to come by and Hoseok would not lose it.

10 seconds left on the clock.

Hoseok gave a final glance to Hyunwoo.

Then he was off.

He could hear the roar of engines surrounding him, almost deafening as clouds of smoke billowed around him. As the dust cleared he could see Kihyun’s unmissable red car already ahead of him, zigzagging around the track with ease and finesse Hoseok couldn’t help but admire. He could almost imagine Kihyun’s face as he zoomed ahead, cocky and sure of his win. Hoseok laughed, narrowly avoiding a car determined to smash into him. He was almost there, almost levelled with Kihyun. Just one more push.

Pulling alongside Kihyun he risked a glance sideways, the teasing smile on his face was gone, replaced with a tight expression as he drove, hands working quickly. Hoseok knew he didn’t have time for this, on the road it was always him, and no one else. He couldn’t let himself be distracted by Kihyun, not right now, not with Salazar breathing down his neck. Not with how narrow the road was getting and how he knew Kihyun never played by the rules. A wrong move and he’d be out of the race, his reputation, everything he’d worked hard for, for him and Hyunwoo, down the drain in a matter of seconds. This race for Kihyun was probably another race, another trophy to win, another chance to gain more adoring fans and money, but for Hoseok. It was his life, and Hyunwoo’s. Hoseok wouldn’t let Kihyun take that from him.

The track was starting to thin out and Hoseok gripped his steering wheel tightly, struggling to stay on track, neither him nor Kihyun willing to give space for the other. Glancing at his mirror he could see the other cars right on his tail and if he wanted to pull ahead he’d had to do something quick. Gritting his teeth he stepped on the gas, heart throbbing in his chest as he heard the sound of his car scraping against Kihyun’s.

Kihyun pushed back equally, increasing his speed to match Hoseok's.

Hoseok groaned in frustration, knowing they had no time for this, either of them. The track was starting to thin out even more and in the next 10 seconds there would only be room for one of them. And it would be Hoseok.

Hyunwoo on his mind, Hoseok steered to the left, pushing Kihyun’s car against the barrier that separated them from the cliffside down below. Beads of sweat formed on his head as Kihyun pushed back. He could see the finish line down the road, coming at them fast. If he just kept Kihyun trapped, just like this he could have one final push to cross the finish line first. He was almost there.

And then in a split second, it was over.

Breathing heavily Hoseok glanced around, palms slicked with sweat and heart throbbing in his chest he glanced to the side, to see Kihyun assessing him, a slight smirk on his lips. Then the applause came, the sound of one name repeated over and over:

Kihyun.

Hoseok suppressed a sigh, resisting the urge to scream, shout, drive away, anything but to face Salazar, to face Hyunwoo. Despite bending the rules, despite changing his style, doing everything he possibly could. He lost. He knew Salazar would not be pleased. Groaning, he clambered out of his car, walked over to the usual spot he knew Salazar would be waiting on him. In the past he’d have been happy, ready to boast of his winnings to Salazar, his best racer. The crowd would have been yelling his name, the bets placed on him.

Salazar smiled as he approached, a smile Hoseok knew hid a thousand meanings. Hoseok knew he had no excuse either. He lost, that was it; “effort” wasn’t a word in Salazar’s books. There was winning and losing and Hoseok lost. Lost even the little bets placed on him, on Salazar’s biggest race. Against a rookie who had a month’s experience.

“So, you lost.” Salazar stated as Hoseok stood before him. Hoseok almost scoffed, almost laughed and replied “duh”.

“Yeah.” He answered instead.

Salazar nodded, eyes flickering to Kihyun. Hoseok turned around, saw Kihyun accept the flimsy trophy, the never ending applause for him never seeming to die down. As if aware of being watched, Kihyun turned around, and even with the distance between them, Hoseok knew well enough Kihyun’s signature, cocky smile would be on his lips, mocking and teasing.

“Grab Hyunwoo, meet me back at the garage.”

Hoseok snapped his attention back to Salazar and nodded. He hated being this person, this pawn for Salazar to play with as he wished. He wished he could reach forward, land a swing right on his jaw, leave another scar on his already trashed face, do something, anything to get himself and Hyunwoo away. He wished and he wished.

Head held high, he trudged back to his car, fists clenching at the sight of Kihyun waiting for him, casually leaning against Hoseok's car. Kihyun looked the very picture of arrogant, eyes shining brightly and Hoseok was very much aware of the stares being sent their way. Kihyun had proved himself better than Hoseok despite Hoseok's blatant efforts on the track.

But he wouldn’t let Kihyun see that; he wouldn’t let him see how angry and disappointed he was. Gritting his teeth, he nodded, lips pulled into a smile.

“Congrats.” Hoseok said, voice coming out in a hoarse. He hoped he looked unaffected and that Kihyun wouldn’t see through his façade.

“Oh?” Kihyun answered, one eyebrow raised.

Hoseok waited for him to continue, or to get the fuck off his car so he could drive off and meet Hyunwoo. He needed Hyunwoo now more than anything, needed that assurance that there was always next time, that he could come back from this, better than ever. He needed to be away from the prying eyes and the people having fun at his expense.

Kihyun shrugged, standing up, every movement designed to draw attention to him. He walked slowly over to Hoseok, trademark smirk never leaving his lips. Hoseok stood rigid as he leaned forward, tip-toeing just a little bit to reach the smooth curve of Hoseok's ear.

“You know,” he whispered, his breath ghosting over Hoseok's skin, “you’re kinda cute when you’re upset.”

Then he was gone, blazing towards his fans, not sparing a glance backwards at Hoseok.

Hoseok wanted to scream, needed to scream. And he would do that later. But for now, Hyunwoo.

Climbing into his car and revving up the engine, he sped away.

*

Hoseok was 16 when he hotwired his first car. He had called Hyunwoo after his parents started yet another round of arguments and Hyunwoo had showed up 10 minutes later, out of breath and ready to whisk Hoseok away. He’d grabbed his hand and led him towards the high street, past the pub his father frequented. He’d led Hoseok towards an overgrown field, far way from the comfort of the town and Hoseok had followed, because it was Hyunwoo and he trusted him with anything.

In the distance, even before he could see the lights and the tell-tale sign of a party he’d heard the sound of heavy bass, transmitting over the field and filling up the night sky. That night was the first of many for him; of partying, of drinking, smoking, doing everything he had sworn he’d never do after witnessing what it did to his father.

The first night he’d gotten a driving lesson from a totally too drunk college kid who really shouldn’t have offered in the first place. The night he’d learnt how to put wires together to start up a dead car; a skill he didn’t know he needed, but college kid Mark thought he did.

Hoseok supposed he had Hyunwoo to thank for a lot of things.

He had Hyunwoo to blame for a lot of things too.

In actuality, everything always came back to Hyunwoo.

*

Hoseok sighed, eyes hazy as he drowned yet another shot of tequila, throat burning as he stared at Hyunwoo beside him. Hyunwoo was never good with hiding his worry and tonight was no exception, forehead creased with a thousand worry lines and eyes staring endlessly at his empty glass. He looked like he did back when Hoseok first got into street racing, anxious for what was to come, anxious for Hoseok.

“It’s not the end of the world.” Hoseok slurred, lips turning into a goofy grin before he could help it. Now that he had alcohol in his system and Salazar, Kihyun, none of them were in his sight he could find the whole situation funny really. For all his talk, for all his skill and for all his boasting, he was easily defeated by someone with only a month’s experience under his belt. Hyunwoo turned to him, nostrils flaring.

“It’s not funny, Seok. Who knows what Salazar—”

“Fuck Salazar, Hyunwoo. Fuck him. Maybe he’ll finally get off my fucking back, isn’t that what you want anyway?”

“I want you free, I want you driving on your own terms; and that won’t happen unless—”

“It won’t happen ever and that’s something you and I both know. What, you think all the wins, all the money I’ve brought to the garage hasn’t been enough to pay off the debt? No, there’s only 2 ways out and it’s jail or death and neither options are for me.”

“And Kihyun? What are you gonna do about him, I heard Salazar’s in talks with him.”

“To recruit?”

“I think so.”

Hoseok smiled, head leaning against his wall. He surveyed the tiny room he called his, a carboard box of a room, a bed, table, chair and wardrobe the only furniture to his name. The walls were a simple beige and a low light hung from the ceiling. He could vaguely hear the burst of activity from outside the walls, signalling the other occupants of the garage were home, each going about their business, Hoseok's name no doubt on their lips. Much as he didn’t want to admit it, he hated having to go outside eventually, facing them, knowing whatever ounce of respect they held for him had probably vanished in a simple instant.

“You know, maybe getting replaced by Kihyun wouldn’t be so bad after all. Let him do the heavy lifting. Allow me to relax for once.”

“Seok—”

“I’m tired, Hyunwoo.”

“I’m sorry.” He answered. Hoseok winced, knowing he’d hurt him without meaning to. He knew Hyunwoo would always blame himself for the position they were in, and truthfully, a huge part of Hoseok blamed Hyunwoo too. But he also knew there was nothing Hyunwoo wouldn’t do for him and regardless of how they ended up in that situation, Hyunwoo was counting on him and he wouldn’t let him down.

“No, I’m just… I’ll get over it. I’ll take a shower and come out and joke with the guys and do whatever the fuck Salazar wants me to do and get over it. We still have time, Hyunwoo. We’ll get out.”

Hyunwoo nodded, standing up abruptly. “I’m gonna go let Salazar know you’ll be out soon.”

Hoseok watched him go, eyes fleeting to his cupboard draw. It would be so easy, to take out the pills he’d had for so long, to end it all. To finally do something for himself, not because Salazar ordered him to and not for Hyunwoo.

Groaning in frustration, he stood up and walked to the bathroom.

The first thing he noticed when he walked out hours later was Kihyun. Kihyun sat beside Salazar, legs draped casually over a chair as they engaged in conversation. Hyunwoo was positioned in the back, leaning against a wall as he watched them, fingers playing with the fringe of his shirt. The garage seemed too packed tonight, Salazar’s main racers waiting on instruction by their cars. Whatever job Salazar had for tonight, Hoseok wasn’t a part of it for once. He would have rejoiced if he didn’t know what that meant. One race lost and Salazar’s faith in him had shattered.

Salazar’s deep brown eyes bore into his and he beckoned him forward. Kihyun watched him with a calculative look as Hoseok approached and Hoseok hoped his face didn’t betray just how pathetic he felt at the moment.

“You and Kihyun are my two best drivers.” Salazar stated, patting the space beside him. Hoseok sat down, carefully masking his expression and hoping nothing betrayed how shocked he felt. Two best drivers? Hyunwoo was right then; Salazar had successfully recruited Kihyun.

“Okay.” Hoseok answered with a shrug. “What about it?”

“Every pick up you go on from now on Kihyun goes with you and vice versa.”

“I don’t need—”

“It wasn’t a request.”

Hoseok heaved a sigh, running his hands through his hair. He could see Kihyun from the corner of his eye, still watching him, assessing him. And Hoseok wanted nothing more than to punch him in that moment, ask him why he’d sell himself to the devil when he didn’t need to. Why he’d trade his freedom for a man like Salazar. Why he’d give up the very thing Hoseok was desperately trying to get back.

“Your first job’s in 2 months. I’ll have Jen brief you.”

Hoseok watched Salazar go before he turned to Kihyun. Kihyun had one eyebrow raised, eyes boring into Hoseok and making sure Hoseok knew he was watching. He’d changed since the afternoon, brown eyeshadow replaced with a smoky eye, a slight red tint to his lips. Hoseok observed his slightly blushed cheeks and wondered once again how Kihyun ended up here, right in the arms of someone like Salazar when he didn’t need to be.

“So. Partner.” Kihyun said, tone teasing as he leaned forward slightly. “I’m Kihyun. You might know me as the guy that beat some legend in a race like 5 hours ago.”

Hoseok knew he didn’t mistake the way Kihyun’s eyes flitted to his lips and he knew he didn’t mistake how Kihyun seemed to shift closer. He scoffed.

“I let you win.” Hoseok answered. Kihyun laughed, eyes twinkling just a bit, Hoseok pretended not to notice.

“What are you, four?”

Hoseok smiled, eyes finding Hyunwoo before he could help it, “that’s what Hyunwoo said.”

“Hyunwoo… huh.” Kihyun echoed, eyes travelling to Hyunwoo.

Hoseok sighed. “We’ll work out how this partnership or whatever’s gonna go tomorrow or something. Salazar kinda cornered me there, I know it’s not ideal for either of us but—”

“Nah speak for yourself, I’m loving every moment of this.”

To prove his point, Kihyun shifted ever closer, fingers barely ghosting Hoseok's arm.

“Are you flirting with me?”

Kihyun laughed, loud enough to attract Hyunwoo’s attention. “If it’s working, yeah.”

Hoseok smiled; what he couldn’t deny even if he tried was just how good looking Yoo Kihyun was. And maybe he was supposed to hate, or at least strongly dislike him but—

“You always flirting with your new partners?”

“Just the special ones.”

“You’ve had any other partner?”

“Nope.”

Hoseok laughed, genuine for the first time that day. “I’m honoured.”

“As you should be.”

Hoseok wondered what to make of it, of any of it. Of Kihyun’s switch in demeanour, of the flirting when just hours ago they were both at each other’s throats on the road. He wondered what Hyunwoo would make of it, or Salazar. He wondered what could ever come of it, if he had the luxury of even thinking of anyone that way. Let alone Kihyun.

Pulled out of his thoughts by a slight tap on his shoulder he looked up to find Hyunwoo staring down at him. “Seok, you coming?”

“Coming where?”

“Outback, Ty said drinks on him.”

Hoseok turned to Kihyun, noticed he’d shifted away from him, watching Hyunwoo with an unreadable expression on his face. He could say no, continue with Kihyun, see where things go.

“We’ll work out something tomorrow.” He said to Kihyun. Reaching forward, he grabbed Hyunwoo’s outstretched hand and let himself be pulled away.

*

Hoseok was 17 when he got arrested for the first time.

He had come back home from school to find the furious face of his father waiting for him in his bedroom, holding the stash of weed Hoseok had been careful to hide. The argument his father usually had with his mother had been directed at him that night and Hoseok had ran out, knocked on Hyunwoo’s door and they were off.

They had no plans directly that night, maybe go to whatever college rave they could find or smoke until neither of them remembered their names. Hyunwoo had held on tightly to Hoseok's hand as they blazed through their town, stopping at a store to buy cheap beer.

Hyunwoo never asked what Hoseok needed to escape from that night as they sat drunk on a ledge in front of the pub. Even when Hoseok had leaned over, lips finding Hyunwoo’s, fingers tangling in his hair, Hyunwoo had let him; Hyunwoo had kissed him back.

Then the shouts came, the jeers, the comments from equally as drunk pub-goers with too much time on their hands. And Hoseok had snapped, directed the frustration he felt towards his father to them instead, landing a punch on one of the guy’s faces before he could think.

Hyunwoo had stepped in, despite being against fighting himself, despite knowing the trouble he’d have gotten into if his parents found out. He had stepped in, helping Hoseok in a fight they were clearly losing. Then the police had come, people scattered, Hoseok arrested and Hyunwoo rushing home to get his parents.

They never spoke about the kiss.

*

Hoseok rolled his eyes for what felt like the hundredth time in an hour, teeth gritted as Kihyun went over his ‘plan’ once again. Hyunwoo was sat in the corner of the garage, head against the wall and eyes closed, a sign that he was getting frustrated too. The others had gone out on whatever it is Salazar wanted them to do leaving Hoseok stuck with Kihyun. The flirtation, the coy smiles and almost touches from the last week was gone, replaced with the hostility Hoseok always felt when it came to Kihyun.

“No listen—I don’t think you get it, we can’t just crash through and steal the shipment; this isn’t fast and furious pretty boy we actually have to think carefully about this.” Hoseok cut through, stopping Kihyun’s ongoing tirade. Kihyun glared, eyes turning to slits.

“Alright we’ll just politely ask Allister’s men for the drugs then. And they’ll politely hand it over to us.”

“Not if we strike the deal first, are you even listening?”

Kihyun grunted, turning over to Hyunwoo, “how do you deal with this guy?”

“I don’t understand why you’re making this more complicated than it needs to be. Our one and only job is to transfer the shipment safely back to the garage.”

“And that’s fine but you think Allister’s men are gonna care about who gets it first? They’re still gonna come after us regardless of a bullshit deal.”

“Oh risk taker Kihyun’s scared.”

“I can’t work with you.”

Hoseok laughed, standing up to fix himself a drink, “please, Salazar’s favourite, go ahead and let him know I promise you I want nothing more than to continue solo.”

“Are you guys done?”

Hyunwoo stood up, arms crossed. “Because I don’t know about Kihyun but Hoseok should know what’s at stake.”

“Hyunwoo he’s—”

“He’s your partner because that’s what Salazar wants. And that isn’t gonna change any time soon so shut the fuck up and find a way to work with him.”

Hoseok watched Hyunwoo leave the garage before he turned to Kihyun. “Alright let’s talk.”

Whistling low, Kihyun laughed, “you always been his bitch?”

“Yep.”

“Well woof.”

“Anyway. Listen, you don’t like this, and I don’t like this but we have to do it. So let’s talk.” Hoseok replied. Pouring a drink for Kihyun, he walked over and sat in front of him.

“Alright but really don’t keep talking for me, never said I don’t like this.”

“Ki—”

“You’re fucking annoying and difficult and I switch between wanting to kiss you and kick you every five seconds but I’m not complaining about being partners.”

Hoseok coughed slightly, hoping he didn’t look too caught off guard. In the week since he’d lost that race to Kihyun he still didn’t know what to make of him. Of his flirtation and fiery temper and how he could switch moods in the blink of an eye.

“Who’s gonna drive once we get the shipment?” Hoseok asked, hoping to divert attention away from himself. He couldn’t afford a relationship that wasn’t platonic, he had to keep reminding himself that.

“So if you wanna kiss me at any time at all I’m never gonna complain.” Kihyun answered instead, knocking the drink out of the way and shifting closer.

“What? Kihyun be serious.”

“I am. About really wanting to kiss you, the most serious I’ve been in my life.”

And Hoseok could, if he wanted, which he hated to admit that he did. He could close the very little gap between them, find out what it felt to kiss Kihyun, to taste the strawberry lip balm he often wore.

“Kihyun—” Hoseok answered and he laughed, leaning back.

“Alright fine. Let’s talk.” He replied with a shrug. “I’ll get my kiss later.”

*

Hoseok almost fucked Hyunwoo once.

His parents had gone to a restaurant at a futile attempt to fix their dead relationship at the suggestion of a therapist they paid $30 an hour. He’d call Hyunwoo over almost as soon as they left, swiping one of his dad’s alcohol for them both. They’d gone down to the basement, battled with the old satellite TV and put on a horror flick neither of them really paid attention to.

The drinks were long forgotten after a while in favour of the blunts Hyunwoo had mastered rolling, passed back and forth between them. Hoseok, ever the lightweight had been gone first, his laughter coming more easily, his touches on Hyunwoo’s hands, face, lips more frequent. Even through his drug induced haze, he’d felt a charge of electricity in the air, he’d noticed the way Hyunwoo was staring at him through his lidded eyes.

So when Hyunwoo had climbed on to his lap a moment after, tongue in his mouth and fingers tangling in his shirt he hadn’t been surprised. And when Hyunwoo had whispered about how he desperately wanted, needed to feel Hoseok, Hoseok had been all too eager to comply.

Then they’d hear the click of the door upstairs, the signs of Hoseok's parents’ voices, heated in conversation and they’d jump apart; Hoseok rushing to lock the door.

He’d settled back down on his beanbag, Hyunwoo had lighted another blunt and that was it.

*

Hoseok leaned back in his seat as he watched the cars behind them struggling to keep up through his mirror. He glanced at Kihyun whose eyes were fixated straight on the road, lips pulled into that infamous smile of his. He was in his element, in control and even if Hoseok was just a little annoyed that he had to take a backseat and allow Kihyun to drive he wasn’t complaining either. He hated to admit it but Kihyun looked good as he drove on, laughing a bit as he swerved another barrage of Allister’s men.

Hoseok could still not figure out why Kihyun agreed to trade freedom to be one of Salazar’s lackeys but maybe this was it, maybe Kihyun loved the thrill, the chase; taking risks and winning big.

Hyunwoo’s voice cracked through Hoseok's ear piece, “Seok, how many more minutes till you’re at the rendezvous point?”

With the way Kihyun was driving? Less than a second.

“Almost there. Is Jake ready?”

“Yeah. Salazar wants you back at the garage soon as you’ve made the switch.”

“And you?”

“I’m gonna go with Jake for the drop off.”

“Alright see you tomorrow.” Hoseok answered. “And stay safe, come back to me in one piece.”

“You too.”

Hoseok sighed, eyebrows furrowing as he wondered just how safe Hyunwoo would be. The drop off was always the worst bit of any mission and Hoseok wished it was him driving with Hyunwoo instead; Jake was good but Hoseok was better. Hoseok could keep Hyunwoo safe.

“How long you known Hyunwoo?”

Hoseok startled, remembering where he was. He turned to Kihyun and shrugged. “Last thing to worry about right now don’t you think?”

“I can multitask.”

“Sure you can but I also don’t wanna die, so.”

“Answer the question.”

“Since childhood.”

“So is he competition?” Kihyun asked, narrowly missing one of Allister’s cars slamming into his side.

“For what?”

“Your feelings.”

“Kihyun—”

“It wouldn’t be fair really if he was competition. Childhood versus two months of me knowing you? Ouch.”

When Hoseok didn’t respond, he continued, “because really, it’s your fault I haven’t known you longer. All them races and you never talked to me until I beat you and I’ve liked you for so long but you’re so dense—”

“I am not dense.”

“Yeah okay.”

Kihyun lapsed into silence as he picked up the speed, the rendezvous point fast approaching.

“Alright since you’re driving like you’re out to kill us I’m confessing kissing you has been on my mind before we die.” Hoseok stated after a while. Kihyun let out a laugh as he swerved the corner, Jake’s bright yellow car shining in the distance.

“I’m holding you on to that. Soon as we’re back at the garage I need you to fucking kiss me.”

“Duly noted.”

Hoseok waited with bated breath as Kihyun passed the shipment to Jake, the roar of Allister’s cars in the distance. He hoped Jake would drive properly for once and Hyunwoo would come back to him tomorrow. He watched Jake drive away and Kihyun run back and they were off, going the other direction back to the garage.

Hoseok allowed himself to put Hyunwoo at the back of his mind for now, his entire body seemingly buzzing with anticipation as to what kissing Kihyun would be like. He knew Kihyun well enough now to know he would get his kiss tonight and Hoseok couldn’t pretend to mind. He almost took over the wheel himself, cut the corners he knew too well to get to the garage faster, or maybe stop the car in the middle of the road and kiss Kihyun senseless right there on the driver’s seat.

Finally, painstakingly so, Kihyun slowed to a stop, flawlessly parking his car right beside Hoseok's in the garage. Hoseok barely had time to breath before Kihyun was climbing over him, legs planted firmly on either side. He leaned down, pushing the car seat backwards, then his lips were on Hoseok's, tongue ghosting his bottom lip slightly. Hoseok couldn’t help the moan that spilled from his mouth, Kihyun taking advantage of that to slide his tongue in his mouth.

Then came his hands, tugging at Hoseok's hair slightly, strong enough to leave Hoseok's scalp tingling; then they were sliding under Hoseok's shirt, feeling the firm muscle there, ghosting over his nipples. Hoseok couldn’t tell where he ended and Kihyun began, the taste of Kihyun’s strawberry lip balm mixing with his own spit so that all Hoseok could taste was Kihyun.

Finally, Kihyun pulled back, teeth grazing Hoseok's bottom lip for just a moment.

“Please don’t think I want you just for your dick and I know it’s been two months but right now I need you to fuck me.” He stated, eyes burning with desire Hoseok knew would be mirrored on him. “But only, you know, if you want.”

Hoseok chuckled, pushing his seat even further back until there was enough space for him to stretch his legs.

“Right here?”

“Right here and then on the hood of your car.”

“You’ve thought about this.”

“So fucking much.”

Hoseok wasted no time then, pulling Kihyun’s back to him for another wet kiss, before he turned his attention to his neck, tongue licking at the moles there. He could feel the vein pulsing on Kihyun’s throat as he bit his way downwards, unbuttoning Kihyun’s shirt as he went until he finally discarded his shirt on the floor.

He took a moment to look at Kihyun on his lap, hair mussed and lips a bright red, open in a way he’d never seen from Kihyun before.

“You want this?”

Kihyun leaned over, softly biting Hoseok's ear in response, “yes.”

“I want you to fuck me.” He whispered, hips moving against Hoseok's, and suddenly both their jeans seemed too much, tight and clammy against their skins. Kihyun shifted off Hoseok's lap, bending down until he could comfortably kneel and then he was taking off Hoseok's trousers, eyes glazed over as he palmed Hoseok's cock through his boxers. Hoseok shifted, allowing Kihyun to take everything off, heart throbbing as Kihyun wasted no time before his mouth was on his cock, tongue wet and slick against him.

Kihyun looked up as his mouth moved, fingers palming Hoseok's balls and it took everything in Hoseok not to kiss him, to taste his pre cum on Kihyun’s lips, mixed with his strawberry lip balm. Kihyun leaned forward, eyes closing with effort as he took Hoseok's length in his mouth, a slight noise escaping his throat.

Hoseok really fucking hoped the garage was empty like Salazar claimed, as an almost animalistic grunt escaped his mouth and then it was nonsensical words from there. Cries of yes and Kihyun escaping his lips. He was so close and he needed to feel Kihyun in him before that, needed to fuck Kihyun just like he wanted. He pulled out, leaning down to kiss Kihyun, tasting the salt from his pre cum.

Kihyun’s hands continued working, alternating between palming his dick and his balls.

“Fuck, Kihyun… lube.”

“Condom’s in glove department. No lube.”

Hoseok almost burst out laughing then, because, yeah, Kihyun would have condoms in his glove department. Turning him around, Hoseok helped him take off his jeans, hand snaking inside his boxers to touch Kihyun; Kihyun’s pre cum leaving his fingers slicked. Then his mouth was on Kihyun’s ass, tongue tracing the outline of his hole, dick throbbing with every sound that escaped Kihyun’s mouth. Hoseok palmed himself as he continued, finally sticking his tongue inside Kihyun, his other hand holding Kihyun’s hips firmly against the dashboard.

“Need you… in me… Hoseok…”

Hoseok pulled back, slowly reaching for a condom, satisfied at the grunt that came from Kihyun, “I didn’t hear you.”

“I need you to fuck me now Hoseok.” Kihyun replied, louder. Hoseok watched, transfixed as he started to finger himself, hands slick with his spit.

“Who’s the best racer?”

Kihyun’s movement stilled and he turned around to glare.

“Are you fucking kidding me?”

Hoseok laughed, unwrapping the condom even more painstakingly slow.

“You sure you need me to fuck you?”

“You. You’re the greatest fucking racer and I need the greatest fucking racer to fuck me now. Hoseok please.” Kihyun whined and that was all Hoseok needed. Condom on he gently removed Kihyun’s hand, positioning himself behind. Bending Kihyun slightly, he moved until his cock was right at Kihyun’s opening.

Then he was fucking Kihyun, just like he wanted. Kihyun’s moans filling the entirety of the car, incorrigible words of filth spilling out of his mouth. Hoseok grabbing Kihyun’s cock, groans spilling out of his own mouth as he palmed him, Kihyun’s cum leaking out on to his fingers. Kihyun leaned back until his head rested on Hoseok's shoulder, teeth grazing Hoseok's neck, his breathing coming out shallow leaving goosebumps on Hoseok's skin.

Just like that was all Hoseok heard from Kihyun’s mouth as Hoseok moved faster, the sound of his balls slapping against Kihyun’s ass loud and clear. Hoseok brought his fingers up, letting Kihyun taste his own cum, his other hand around Kihyun’s neck.

“Need to cum.” Kihyun spilled out, mouth buried in the crook of Hoseok's neck and voice barely coming out.

“Not yet.” Hoseok answered, his own breathing coming out laboured. He wanted to feel Kihyun some more, wanted to hear his name spill out of Kihyun’s mouth over and over again, needed to taste Kihyun, needed to fuck him.

“Please.” Kihyun replied, words barely forming.

And Hoseok was so close, could barely register telling Kihyun to cum; ears ringing as Kihyun came with a cry, cum spilling out on Hoseok's hands, breathing coming fast. And Hoseok came right after with a final thrust in Kihyun, legs almost giving out as he laid over Kihyun, each trying to get their breathing back on track.

Kihyun turned around after he caught his breath, eyes staring into Hoseok's in a fond way Hoseok had never seen before. From Kihyun, from anyone in a long time.

“How did you let me cum before fucking me on the hood of your car?”

Hoseok laughed, stepping away as best as he could, “another time pretty boy, another time.”

*

Hoseok remembered the day it all went wrong clear as day.

It was a particularly hot summer and he’d been chilling inside his dorm room, windows opened, and eyes glossed over ready to nap. Hyunwoo had rushed in then, spare key in his hand, his eyes looking troubled than Hoseok had ever seen. He had launched into what seemed like the longest monologue, finally concluding that he was in trouble. A lot of trouble.

Hoseok had barely seen him the last few months, from what he heard he was often down at a race track or the other, gambling and betting on the drivers.

One race he’d said that day, Hoseok just had to participate in one race for a man called Salazar and if Hoseok won, Hyunwoo’s debt would clear. Hoseok was the best driver he knew Hyunwoo had said at the time, begging for Hoseok's agreement.

Hoseok hadn’t seen him for months, hell Hyunwoo didn’t even remember his birthday this year. But Hyunwoo was his friend, his best friend, the person he had loved for so long and he was in trouble. And Hoseok could save him.

And so he did.

Well, tried to.

*

“I mean really, what’s better than recreational drug use while going 90 miles per hour with cops hot on our trails.” Kihyun shrugged, slightly red eyes staring at Hoseok, daring him to disagree. Hoseok tilted his head, pretending to think, playing along, exposing a flash of the tattoos scrawled on his neck, just how he knew Kihyun liked it.

“Recreational drug use while going 90 miles per hour with cops hot on our trails and a blowjob?”

Kihyun laughed, voice coming out hoarse as he took a long drag, assessing Hoseok with interest before shrugging.

“Yeah okay.” He muttered, hands already making quick work of the zipper of Hoseok's too tight jeans and head ducking down in a fluid motion. Hoseok groaned, hands stilling on the wheel just a bit before he continued to concentrate as best he could with Kihyun’s mouth fucking his cock like that. Hoseok didn’t even remember what the mission was or what Salazar wanted them to do or the fact that the cops had shown up unexpected and they were likely going to be arrested the way this was going.

All he could think of was Kihyun’s tongue on his cock, of the noises escaping Kihyun’s mouth as he quickened his pace; mind still hazy from the weed he’d shared with Kihyun just a couple minutes earlier.

He didn’t know how to describe his relationship with Kihyun. He didn’t know if it was just sex, lots of sex in their cars, in Hoseok's room underneath the garage, in Salazar’s office. Six blissful months of sex, of racing, of… not seeing Hyunwoo like he used to. He tried not to think too heavily about that. Cutting off the road, he drove through the forest close by, knowing the cops would catch up sooner or later. At least he’d give Kihyun the chance to finish what he started.

Salazar would be pissed, and so would Hyunwoo, but Hoseok didn’t have it in him to care. The shipment was already with Jake anyway, the worst they could be busted for was public indecency. Kihyun popped his head back up, planting a firm kiss on Hoseok's lips as the sound of sirens came nearer.

“Okay so you know I’ve always wanted to fuck in a jail cell.”

“Do you just have a long list of places you wanna scream my name?”

“Absolutely.”

“You can’t be fucked in jail, Kihyun.”

“Try and stop me.”

And that was how Hoseok found himself opposite Kihyun in a jail cell, bars separating them from each other. They had shifted to the back, hidden in the shadows as much as they could and  until their hands could touch in between the bars and—

And Kihyun could snake an arm through, making quick work of Hoseok's jeans. Keeping his eyes firmly at the front Kihyun delved into Hoseok's boxers, Hoseok's cock already hardened as he waited.

“Do you feel good?” Kihyun whispered, tongue darting out to wet his lips.

“Fuck Kihyun.”

“You like that? Like me touching your cock just like this where we could be caught?”

Hoseok could only grunt in reply, biting his tongue in an effort not to scream. Snaking his own arm through the bar he palmed Kihyun’s cock through his jeans, smirking in satisfaction at the moan Kihyun replied with. Keeping an eye outside the cell, their hands moved, both coming undone in a matter of minutes.

Hoseok sat with his eyes closed, steadying his breath and waiting for Kihyun to do the same.

“Why are you here, with Salazar?” Kihyun spoke after a while. “I know it’s not by choice.”

“Why are you?” Hoseok asked and Kihyun chuckled.

“Stay close to you, if I’m being truthful.”

Hoseok opened his eyes, tilting his head to stare at Kihyun, “no.”

“Yeah. I don’t know if you noticed but I’m kinda whipped by you. I can leave when I want to though.”

“Hmm. Hyunwoo and I don’t have that luxury.”

“No?”

“No. Hyunwoo, he was into gambling back in college or whatever I don’t know. But he had debts to pay, a lot and Salazar made a deal with him that if I won a race, his debts would be cleared. I agreed and I lost. Guess Salazar saw me race before and wanted to find a way to recruit me. We signed contracts I don’t even know if they’re valid, but we can’t leave till we pay off Hyunwoo’s debt. I know Salazar as well as you do. He’s not letting us go till he wants to, debt or not.”

“So you’re fucked because of Hyunwoo.”

“Yeah.”

“You don’t resent him for that?”

“Sometimes, and he knows that and it hurts that he knows that.”

“And you’re still best friends?”

“Always.”

“Then you’re more forgiving than I am.”

Kihyun sighed, turning to lace his fingers through Hoseok's as best as he could, “you could run you know. Leave with me dead of the night.”

“Salazar’s got too much on me for that, I’ve transported cocaine for him Kihyun. And all the money I win 90% goes to him.”

“Then we’ll use my money. Salazar doesn’t have control of me and my money, I’d take care of you.”

“What if I have expensive needs?”

“Then I’d go out racing, break every single rule and beat every single bastard to win. Salazar’s got nothing on me. We could go.”

“And Hyunwoo?”

Kihyun groaned, thumping his head against the wall just a bit.

“Guess I’m fucked because of Hyunwoo now too.”

*

“You fucked the guy and now you’re ready to risk it all?”

“It’s not like that Hyunwoo.”

Hoseok sat calmly as Hyunwoo paced his room, eyes blazing in anger. “No? Then what is it like? There’s no escaping Salazar, Hoseok. And you want to risk your neck for what?”

“You don’t know that. Kihyun has a plan, he—”

“How has this guy got you whipped so quick you’re doing this for him? Risking everything for him?”

“For myself Hyunwoo, don’t think so fucking little of me that you think I’m so pathetic that I can’t even try to live life on my own terms for once. I’m done, Hyunwoo. With being Salazar’s puppet, with having to answer to him all the time. Aren’t you?”

“You think I’m not? You think I don’t feel like shit knowing I’m responsible for our situation, knowing your life would be so much more different if not for me? But we’re too far in Hoseok and you know it. Transporting weed is one thing but you’ve transported cocaine, you and I both. Salazar has the connections we don’t.”

“We just need to evade him long enough. Just fucking drive away from here. Hide if we have to until we’re safe.”

“And when would that be? Where would we even go?”

“I don’t know, but anywhere is better than here, Hyunwoo.”

“And where would I fit? In yours and Kihyun’s paradise. I haven’t even properly talked to you in months how do we go from here.”

“Do not, don’t try to make me feel even an ounce of guilt for being happy, Hyunwoo. And you’re the last person to try and make anyone feel like shit for ditching their friend. I don’t know if you remember but we’re in this situation because you ditched me and became addicted to gambling your life away.”

Hoseok was on his feet now, eyes levelled with Hyunwoo’s; the anger, the resentment he’d felt for so long finally pouring out. He felt like crying, felt like screaming at Hyunwoo, beating him up, anything to convey how fucking crap he’d felt for years. Picking up slack that shouldn’t have been his to pick, fighting a fight that wasn’t his to fight.

And he was tired, tired of it all. Of answering to Salazar, of doing things he didn’t want to do to save his best friend. He wanted nothing more than to relax with Kihyun far away from here, to finally be at peace, to race and drive on his own terms. And if Hyunwoo didn’t want to be a part of that, so be it.

“And you think I’m happy about what I did? You think I don’t feel like shit every single day?”

“I know you do. And I know you telling me not to go is your way of protecting me, even now. And you’re my best friend and I love you, but if you can’t come with me. Then stay.”

Hyunwoo nodded, stepping back.

“When are you planning on leaving?”

“In two days. During the race. We’ll just drive and keep going.”

“Okay.”

Hoseok watched as Hyunwoo opened the door, head bowed in a way Hoseok hadn’t seen for a long time.

“Hyunwoo. Please, come with us.”

Hyunwoo closed the door softly behind him.

*

Hoseok didn’t know if it was adrenaline or fear coursing through his bones. The deafening roar of the crowd did nothing to still his shaking hands as he gripped the wheel tightly, knuckles turning a pale white. Kihyun was in the car over, eyes fixed on the road ahead; if he was nervous, he didn’t show it.

Hoseok took a moment to lean out, to glance at Hyunwoo who was fixed by his usual spot, arms crossed. Their eyes met and Hoseok wondered if, just for a moment, Hyunwoo would change his mind.

Then Hyunwoo turned away and Salazar was beckoning him forward. Eyes flittering to Kihyun for a second, he swallowed, then made his way over.

“You nervous?”

Hoseok raised an eyebrow, watching Salazar closely. His unkempt face revolted him more than usual and Hoseok wished he could punch him, at least once before he left.

“Why would I be?”

“You’re racing against your little boyfriend, aren’t you?”

Hoseok hated the way he said boyfriend, like it was something to joke about. Maybe he could land in a punch before he left. Maybe.

“Okay, and?”

He saw Salazar slightly recoil, never used to Hoseok talking back. Then he smiled, sadistic as always.

“You know what’ll happen if you throw a race. Am I clear?”

“Crystal.”

Hoseok turned and marched back to his car, sending a small smile to Kihyun. “I’m fine.” He mouthed.

Kihyun nodded, rolling up his windows and facing the front again.

30 seconds on the clock.

Hoseok turned around, giving one final glance to Hyunwoo.

“Stay safe.” He mouthed. He hoped Hyunwoo saw.

Then he was off. Sticking close to Kihyun as per the plan. The bend they’d have to turn to steer away from the tracks was coming up fast, and from then they’d drive. Drive until they reached the state over, until they reached Kihyun’s safe house. He saw Kihyun glance over, smile he was used to on his face and then they both swerved.

And they were free.

Cruising through the open road, windows down and Kihyun’s cheers ringing out over the horizon. Hoseok laughed, increasing his speed, driving for himself for once in a long time.

Then he saw the car coming up fast behind them. No doubt one of Salazar’s and his heart sank.

10 minutes in and it was over.

Hyunwoo was right, they’d never be free.

“Keep going it’s fine.” Kihyun shouted, his voice sounding fearful for once in his life. Hoseok knew he had to stop, knew he could take the blame on himself if anything and Kihyun didn’t need to face the backlash from this.

He knew he had to stop.

Then he heard it, the unmistakable sound of Hyunwoo’s voice, of his name being yelled.

Shifting to a stop he allowed Hyunwoo to catch up.

“You made it.”

Hyunwoo chuckled, climbing out and entering Hoseok's car.

“Salazar’s pissed.”

“Okay.”

Hoseok shrugged, passing his car keys to Hyunwoo. “I’m gonna go ride with Kihyun for a while, follow us yeah?”

“Always.”

Giving Hyunwoo a slight hug, he ran out, climbing into Kihyun’s waiting car.

“You should have drove off. What if that was Salazar’s men?”

“I told you I’m fucking whipped for you I’m not going anywhere without you.”

Hoseok leaned over, lips finding Kihyun’s in a hurry, the emotions he hoped he was feeling conveyed in the kiss.

“So, are we driving off into the sunset?” Kihyun asked, forehead resting on Hoseok's.

Hoseok scoffed, facing Kihyun with an eye roll, “who do you think we are?”

“Okay, so blowjob into the sunset?”

“I’m gonna point out how ridiculous you sound later, but yeah. Blowjob into the sunset.”

Kihyun laughed, handing Hoseok his car keys and shifting onto the passenger side, reaching over to plant a kiss firmly on Hoseok's cheek, hands already working on Hoseok's zipper.

“As you wish.”

He drove off and sparing a glance backwards, he saw Hyunwoo follow.