Archive of Our Own

The room smells faintly like fabric softener and something warm, tea that's gone cold on the bedside table. The curtains are half-drawn, city lights bleeding in through the gap, soft and yellow and distant. The heater hums quietly, not loud enough to be annoying, just enough to remind Joshua that it's winter.

He's lying on Jeonghan's bed, flat on his back, shoes kicked off somewhere near the door. Jeonghan is beside him, turned slightly on his side, his left arm stretched out beneath Joshua's head. Joshua's cheek rests against Jeonghan's bicep, warm through the thin cotton of his sleeve. It's familiar and safe. The kind of closeness that doesn't need permission.

Joshua stares at the ceiling. There's a tiny crack near the corner, barely noticeable unless you've been here before. He has been there, in fact many times. Jeonghan scrolls on his phone lazily, thumb flicking up and down. The screen light flashes over his face, catching the sharp curve of his smile before he even speaks.

"You know," Jeonghan says, almost sing-song. "Seungcheol finally confirmed the dates."

Joshua hums, noncommittal. His fingers rest loosely over his own stomach, rising and falling with each breath.

"Rome first," Jeonghan continues, clearly enjoying this. "Then Florence. And Venice at the end. He says Valentine's should be special."

Joshua exhales through his nose. His lips curve automatically, muscle memory kicking in before honesty can catch up. "Wow," he says. "Good for you."

The words come out a second too sharp, wrapped in mock enthusiasm that doesn't quite hide the edge. He tilts his head slightly, pressing his cheek more firmly into Jeonghan's arm, as if grounding himself there might stop the bitterness from spilling out.

"Must be nice," he adds, tone airy. "Being loved like that."

Jeonghan tilts his head, glancing down. "Jealous?"

Joshua looks at the ceiling again, "What? No. Why would I be?"

Jeonghan snorts. "You're terrible at lying."

Joshua sighs, long and exaggerated. "I'm happy for you," he says, and it's true. It just isn't the whole truth. "Really. Valentine's in Italy. Very you."

Jeonghan finally looks away from his phone. He glances down at Joshua, eyes narrowing just a little. Not in anger, but in recognition. He knows that voice. He knows what Joshua sounds like when he's joking and what he sounds like when he's hurting.

Joshua keeps talking before Jeonghan can respond. "Everyone's paired up these days," he mutters. "You and Seungcheol. The staff. Even random strangers on the street." He scoffs softly. "Meanwhile, I'm spending Valentine's with my pillow."

Jeonghan snorts. "You're being dramatic."

"I'm being honest."

Joshua shifts slightly, his hand still resting over his own stomach, fingers curling into the fabric of his hoodie. There's a dull ache there. Not physical, not exactly emotional either, but something in between. Something familiar. Something that's been sitting with him for years.

"There are two weeks left," Jeonghan says casually. Too casually.

Joshua laughs once, short and humorless. "And?"

"And you could do something," Jeonghan replies.

Joshua turns his head just enough to look at him. "Don't."

Jeonghan raises a brow. "Don't what?"

"Don't start."

Silence settles for a moment. The room feels smaller, heavier. Joshua turns his gaze back to the ceiling, jaw tightening. "It's not that simple," he says quietly. "It's not like I just woke up yesterday and decided I like him."

Jeonghan's arm shifts slightly beneath his head, but he doesn't pull away. "I know."

Joshua swallows. His throat feels tight, words pressing against it. He admits, voice low. "And I'm fine. I am. Most days." He pauses. "It's just... days like this make it worse."

Jeonghan doesn't answer right away. His arm shifts slightly, adjusting under Joshua's head, more comfortable. More deliberate. He turns fully on his side now, facing Joshua. He looks down at him, eyes sharp, assessing. "How long has it been?"

Joshua swallows. His throat feels tight. "A few years."

"A few," Jeonghan repeats dryly.

Joshua exhales. "Okay. More than a few."

"And in all that time," Jeonghan says, "you've done nothing."

Joshua's lips press together. He hates how true that sounds when someone else says it. "It's not nothing," he argues quietly. "I'm there for him. I support him. I—"

"You love him," Jeonghan interrupts. "And you hide it."

Joshua turns his head slightly, cheek still on Jeonghan's arm, but now he's looking at him. His eyes are tired. "I don't want to ruin what we have."

Jeonghan's mouth twitches. "You already have nothing."

Joshua flinches. Just a little. Before he can respond, there's movement at the doorway. Soft footsteps. Seungcheol appears, leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed. He's been there longer than Joshua realizes. Long enough.

"Are you done sulking?" Seungcheol asks.

Joshua groans. "Were you spying?"

"Listening," Seungcheol corrects, already walking in. He kicks the door shut behind him and crosses the room, the mattress dipping as he climbs onto the bed from Joshua's other side.

Joshua automatically moves a little to make space, though he doesn't look at him directly. Seungcheol settles down beside him. Not too close. Then closer. And without warning, he turns slightly and lowers his head onto Joshua's shoulder.

Joshua stiffens for half a second. Seungcheol's weight is solid and warm, his temple pressing against Joshua's collarbone, his breath steady against the thin fabric of Joshua's hoodie. It's grounding, familiar and brotherly.

Joshua exhales through his nose. "You're heavy," he mumbles.

"Deal with it," Seungcheol says, voice low.

Jeonghan watches them both, amused.

Seungcheol shifts just enough to get comfortable, his cheek resting fully against Joshua's shoulder now. His hair brushes against Joshua's jaw. Then he speaks again. "You still doing nothing about Seokmin?"

The name lands between them. Joshua's fingers curl slightly against his own stomach. "I don't know what you're talking about," Joshua says, but it lacks conviction.

Seungcheol hums, unimpressed. "We just heard everything."

Joshua shoots a look at Jeonghan. "You're both insufferable."

Jeonghan smiles sweetly. "We care."

Seungcheol lifts his head just enough to look up at Joshua's face. There's something serious in his eyes now. "You've liked him for years," Seungcheol says quietly. "At what point do you stop pretending you don't?"

Joshua's throat tightens. He looks away.

The heater hums. Somewhere outside, wind brushes faintly against the window. The room feels too warm suddenly.

"It's not pretending," Joshua mutters. "It's being realistic."

"Realistic?" Jeonghan repeats softly.

Joshua nods once. "We're idols. We work together. We live in the same apartment. If I mess this up—"

"You'll what?" Jeonghan cuts in. "Lose him?"

Joshua's jaw flexes. "Yes."

Seungcheol watches him carefully. He can feel the tension in Joshua's shoulder where his head rests. He sighs quietly. Then, slowly, he lifts his head off Joshua's shoulder and pushes himself up onto one elbow. He glances over Joshua's head at Jeonghan.

Jeonghan is already looking back. Their eyes meet. There's a flicker of something. Jeonghan's lips curl. Seungcheol narrows his eyes slightly. He knows that look. That calculating, dangerous, I-have-an-idea look.

Jeonghan tilts his head, pretending innocence. Then he says lightly, "I don't think he has the guts."

Joshua turns sharply. "What?"

Jeonghan shrugs. "You heard me."

Seungcheol raises one eyebrow, watching the shift in Joshua's posture. The way his shoulders straighten. The way his pride flares.

"You've loved him for years," Jeonghan continues casually. "And you're still lying on my bed complaining instead of doing something."

Joshua sits up a little, Seungcheol's head sliding off his shoulder fully now.

"I am not scared," Joshua says.

Jeonghan's eyes sparkle. "Then why haven't you confessed?"

Joshua opens his mouth. Closes it. Seungcheol watches the exact moment Joshua realizes he doesn't have an answer.

Jeonghan leans forward slightly. "You're afraid he'll reject you."

"I'm not," Joshua snaps.

"You are."

"I'm not."

"You are."

Seungcheol rubs his forehead. "Here we go..."

Jeonghan tilts his head again, voice soft but sharp. "Coward."

The word hits. Joshua freezes. Seungcheol's gaze flicks immediately to Jeonghan. That was strong.

Jeonghan doesn't look away from Joshua. "You're brave on stage," Jeonghan continues. "You're confident everywhere else. But when it comes to him? You hide."

Joshua's chest rises sharply. "That's not fair."

"Then prove me wrong."

The room goes very quiet. Joshua stands abruptly, the mattress bouncing slightly from the movement. His hands curl into fists at his sides. His heart is pounding so loud he can hear it in his ears.

"Fine," he says.

Seungcheol straightens a little.

""I'll make him fall for me. I'll make him my boyfriend."," Joshua continues, voice trembling slightly—not from fear, but from adrenaline. "I'll make a move."

Jeonghan raises an eyebrow. "When?"

Joshua hesitates. "Before Valentine's."

Jeonghan smiles slowly. "Two weeks?"

Joshua nods once. Jeonghan glances at Seungcheol. Seungcheol already knows what's he about to do.

Jeonghan turns back to Joshua. "I'm giving you one week."

Joshua's eyes widen slightly. "That's insane."

"Or," Jeonghan says sweetly, "you can admit you're scared."

Silence stretches for a while. Joshua's pride burns hotter than his fear. "Ok, one week," he says.

Seungcheol drops back onto the mattress with a soft groan. "I'm surrounded by crazy people." Jeonghan beams.

Joshua grabs his jacket from the chair near the door, hands shaking just slightly. He doesn't notice the way Jeonghan and Seungcheol look at each other once more. Jeonghan gives the smallest wink. Seungcheol exhales, half amused, half worried.

Joshua pauses at the doorway. "One week," he repeats quietly to himself.

And for the first time in years, the idea of Valentine's doesn't feel entirely empty.

It feels terrifying.

The door clicks shut. The sound isn't loud, but it lingers. For a few seconds, neither of them moves. The bedroom feels different without Joshua's presence. Quieter and less chaotic. The heater hums steadily, and the faint city glow still slips through the curtains, stretching pale lines across the floor.

Seungcheol is still lying on his back where Joshua left him, staring at the ceiling. One arm is thrown over his eyes. Jeonghan is sitting up now, legs folded neatly under him, watching the closed door like he can still see Joshua standing there.

Silence stretches.

Then Seungcheol exhales. "You didn't have to push him that hard," he says finally, voice muffled under his arm.

Jeonghan doesn't answer immediately. He reaches for his phone, then changes his mind and sets it back down. His fingers idly smooth over the bedsheet instead. "Yes, I did," he says quietly.

Seungcheol lowers his arm and turns his head to look at him. "Calling him a coward?"

Jeonghan shrugs lightly. "It worked."

"That doesn't mean it was nice."

Jeonghan's lips curve faintly. "I'm not trying to be nice."

Seungcheol pushes himself up onto his elbows. The mattress dips. His expression is softer now, less teasing, more concerned.

"He's really in love with him," Seungcheol says.

Jeonghan's expression changes at that. Just slightly. "I know," he replies. It's not teasing anymore. It's not smug. It's certain.

Seungcheol studies him. "Then what if this backfires?"

Jeonghan tilts his head. "It won't."

"You sound very confident."

"I am."

Seungcheol squints at him. "What makes you this confident?"

Jeonghan finally looks at him properly. His eyes are sharp, calculating but warm underneath. "Because Seokmin is just as gone," he says softly.

Seungcheol blinks. "You're sure?"

Jeonghan nods once. "You don't notice the way he looks at Joshua?"

Seungcheol frowns slightly, thinking.

Jeonghan continues, voice gentle now, thoughtful. "During rehearsals. When Joshua laughs. When Joshua sings. Seokmin watches him like..." He trails off, searching for the right word. "Like he's trying to memorize him."

Seungcheol's brows knit together.

"And he gets jealous," Jeonghan adds.

"Jealous?"

"Mhm." Jeonghan smiles faintly. "Whenever Joshua gets too friendly with someone else. He hides it well. But it's there."

Seungcheol leans back slowly, absorbing that. The room feels warmer somehow. "You've been observing," Seungcheol murmurs.

Jeonghan shrugs. "It's what I do."

A small smile pulls at Seungcheol's lips. "You're scary."

"I know."

There's a pause. Seungcheol's smile fades into something more thoughtful. "He's scared though."

Jeonghan's fingers still against the bedsheet. "I know that too."

"He's terrified of losing Seokmin."

Jeonghan looks down at his lap. His voice softens. "Joshua loves quietly," he says. "He always has."

Seungcheol watches him carefully. There's no teasing now. Just truth. "He doesn't think he deserves loud love," Jeonghan continues. "So, he settles for being close. For being safe."

The words sit heavy in the air. Seungcheol shifts closer to him, reaching out and brushing his fingers against Jeonghan's knee. "And you think forcing him will fix that?"

Jeonghan looks up. "I think," he says slowly, "that if I didn't push him, he would wait another five years."

Seungcheol can't argue with that. The heater clicks softly as it adjusts. Somewhere in the apartment, a cabinet door closes—probably from the cooling wood.

"Still," Seungcheol murmurs, "one week?"

Jeonghan's lips twitch again. "Pressure creates action."

Seungcheol huffs out a laugh. "You sound like a villain."

Jeonghan leans forward slightly, resting his chin in his hand. His eyes glint. "If being the villain means Joshua finally gets what he wants, I don't mind."

Seungcheol studies him for a long moment. Then he sighs, giving in. "You already planned this before he even came over, didn't you?"

Jeonghan doesn't deny it. Instead, he shifts closer and gently rests his head on Seungcheol's shoulder this time. The movement is soft, unguarded.

"I just gave him a deadline," Jeonghan murmurs. "He'll do the rest."

Seungcheol wraps an arm around him instinctively, pulling him in. "And if Seokmin really is oblivious?" he asks quietly.

Jeonghan closes his eyes, smiling faintly. "He's not."

There's a beat of silence. Then, softer: "Seokmin just needs Joshua to say it first."

Seungcheol presses a kiss to Jeonghan's hair absentmindedly. "You really believe that?"

Jeonghan hums. "I wouldn't gamble Joshua's heart if I wasn't sure."

The room settles into a comfortable quiet. Outside, the winter wind brushes against the window again. Inside, Jeonghan's mind is already three steps ahead.

And somewhere across the city, Joshua is walking home with a racing heart and a promise he doesn't yet know will change everything.

The Next Day (The First Day of the Challenge)

Late afternoon light spills lazily through the tall windows of the practice room, pale gold and warm, stretching across the wooden floor in long quiet strips. The mirrors lining the walls reflect everything — the light, the scattered water bottles, the abandoned jackets, and the three of them.

Music has just stopped.

The last beat fades into the soft hum of the speakers cooling down.

Seokmin stands near the center of the room, slightly bent forward, hands on his knees, breathing hard. His hair is damp at the temples, cheeks flushed from practice, lips parted as he laughs at something he just messed up.

His laugh fills the room. Joshua feels it land somewhere dangerous inside his chest. He's leaning against the mirrored wall, arms crossed loosely, trying very hard to look unaffected. Trying very hard not to stare.

He fails, miserably.

Seokmin straightens up and runs a hand through his hair, pushing it back. The movement exposes the clean line of his neck. His tank top clings slightly to his shoulders.

Joshua swallows. Okay. Today is the day. Compliment him. Be normal.

Jeonghan is sitting on the floor near the corner, scrolling through his phone but absolutely not minding his own business. His eyes flick up occasionally, watching Joshua with a look that says, Well?

Joshua pushes himself off the wall. His sneakers squeak faintly against the wood as he walks closer. Each step feels too loud. Seokmin notices him approaching and beams immediately. That open, bright smile that Joshua has loved quietly for years.

"Hyung," Seokmin says, still catching his breath. "Did you see that? I messed up the turn again."

Joshua nods. He did. He saw everything. Up close, he can see the tiny sheen of sweat on Seokmin's collarbone. A small mole on his cheek. The rise and fall of his chest.

Say something smooth.

Joshua clears his throat. "You... did well," he starts.

Too basic. He panics internally.

"No, I mean— your shoulder movement was very..." His brain scrambles for a word that sounds intelligent and impressive. "...structurally impressive."

There is a pause. A small one. But it feels enormous.

Seokmin blinks. "Structurally...?"

Joshua nods firmly, as if he absolutely knows what that means. "Yes. The... angles. Very clean. Very symmetrical."

Seokmin stares at him for a second longer. Then his eyebrows lift slowly. "Hyung," he says carefully, stepping a tiny bit closer. "Are you reviewing my dancing or building a house?"

From the background, Jeonghan snorts.

Joshua feels heat crawl up his neck. "I'm serious," he insists quickly, hands lifting slightly as if he can physically shape his explanation. "You look— I mean, it looks— good."

Good. Just good.

Seokmin's lips twitch. He tilts his head, amused. "You're talking weird."

"I am not."

"You are."

Joshua crosses his arms again, defensive now. He avoids eye contact, staring instead at Seokmin's shoulder which only makes it worse.

"Your shoulders are very nice," he blurts.

The room goes silent. Even the air feels like it stops. Seokmin's eyes widen.

"My... shoulders?"

Joshua wants to evaporate. "Yes. They're... proportionate."

There it is again. Jeonghan fully drops his phone to his lap. "Proportionate?" he repeats under his breath, fighting laughter.

Seokmin suddenly laughs, loud and bright and completely unaware of the emotional warfare happening in front of him. He reaches forward and slaps Joshua lightly on the back.

"Thanks, bro!"

Bro.

The word hits like a physical impact. Joshua forces a smile. It feels stiff on his face. "Yeah," he says faintly. "Anytime."

Seokmin grabs his water bottle, still smiling, completely at ease. "You're so random today. It's cute."

Cute

Joshua's heart jumps, just a little. But then Seokmin continues casually, "You're like a proud older brother giving dance critiques."

Brother.

And just like that, it crashes back down. Joshua nods once. "Right. Brother."

Seokmin laughs again, stepping away to adjust the music for the next run-through. Joshua watches him go. The way he hums absentmindedly. The way he stretches his arms above his head. The way the late sunlight catches in his hair.

His chest feels tight, not painful, just full. Too full. He had imagined this moment differently. In his head, the compliment would be smooth. Seokmin would pause. There would be tension. Maybe a flicker of something.

Instead, he got called a brother. Jeonghan gets up and walks past him, leaning in just enough to whisper: "Symmetrical? Really?"

Joshua closes his eyes briefly. "I panicked."

"I can tell."

Across the room, Seokmin turns around. "Hyung! Are you coming or just observing my proportions?"

Joshua exhales softly. Then he forces himself to walk back to the center of the room, pretending his heart isn't doing something complicated and embarrassing inside his chest.

One day, he tells himself.

One day he'll get it right.

But today is not that day.

The Second Day of the Challenge

The dorm kitchen is quiet in that soft, late-evening way. The overhead lights glow warm against the pale cabinets, and the faint hum of the refrigerator fills the silence. Someone left a window slightly open, so cool air drifts in and carries the distant sounds of traffic far below.

Joshua stands by the sink, holding a glass he doesn't actually need. He has been holding it for the past two minutes, doing nothing and thinking too much.

Physical touch, he tells himself. Casual. Natural. People do it all the time.

Across the kitchen, Seokmin is on his tiptoes, stretching to reach something on the top shelf. His shirt rides up slightly at the waist as he extends his arm, fingers barely brushing the edge of a cereal box. He lets out a small frustrated sound under his breath.

Joshua watches.

This is perfect.

He sets the glass down for a second. Picks it up again. Why is he still holding this? He doesn't know. His heart starts beating faster as he walks toward Seokmin, trying to look relaxed, like he just happened to need something from that exact cabinet at that exact moment.

"Need help?" Joshua asks, aiming for nonchalant. It comes out slightly higher than usual.

Seokmin glances back over his shoulder, smiling. "I almost got it—"

Joshua steps in behind him. Too close. He realizes it too late. He can smell Seokmin's shampoo. Something clean and sweet. His brain short-circuits.

Okay. Just brush hands. Easy.

He lifts his free hand to reach up at the same time Seokmin stretches again. He miscalculates. Instead of brushing fingers, Joshua's forehead bumps straight into Seokmin's shoulder with a dull thud.

The glass slips from his other hand. It doesn't shatter, but it hits the counter loudly before rolling and clinking against the sink. For half a second, everything freezes.

Seokmin immediately spins around. "Hyung! Oh my god— are you okay?"

Before Joshua can process anything, Seokmin's hands are on his face. Warm palms cupping his cheeks gently, thumbs brushing near his temples as he tilts Joshua's head slightly to inspect the damage.

"Did I elbow you? I didn't elbow you, right?" Seokmin's brows knit together, eyes wide with concern. "Does it hurt? Let me see."

Joshua stops breathing. Seokmin is so close. Their faces inches apart. His hands are still holding Joshua's face carefully, like he's something fragile.

Joshua's entire body heats up in an instant. "I— no— I'm fine," Joshua stammers. His voice betrays him completely. "It was just— gravity. I mean, not gravity. I just— misjudged."

"Misjudged what?" Seokmin asks softly, still studying his forehead. His thumb brushes lightly over the spot that hit. The touch is gentle, absentminded.

Joshua's ears turn red. Then his neck. Then probably his entire existence. "I was reaching," he says quickly.

"For what?" Seokmin glances at the shelf, then back at him. His hands haven't moved yet. "My shoulder?"

Joshua's mouth opens. Closes. Opens again. "The... cereal."

"The cereal is behind me."

"Oh."

Another pause.

Seokmin's expression shifts slightly. The panic fades, replaced by something more curious. His eyes linger on Joshua's face a second longer than necessary. He tilts his head just a little, studying him.

"You're acting weird again," he says quietly.

Joshua's heart slams. "I'm not."

"You are." Seokmin finally lowers his hands but doesn't step away. "You've been... bumping into things near me."

"I have not."

"You headbutted me yesterday."

"That was an accident."

Seokmin hums thoughtfully, eyes still scanning his face like he's trying to solve something. Joshua feels exposed under that gaze, like every secret he's been trying to hide is written clearly across his forehead.

Joshua steps back abruptly, almost knocking into the counter. "I said I'm fine."

He moves to grab the glass from the sink, gripping it a little too tightly. His movements are stiff, rushed.

At that exact moment, Jeonghan walks into the kitchen, stopping in the doorway. He takes in the scene in one sweep: the slightly flushed Joshua, the confused Seokmin, the glass in Joshua's death grip.

He sighs. Not surprised. Just tired.

"What happened now?" Jeonghan asks calmly.

"Shua hyung attacked my shoulder," Seokmin says, still sounding half concerned, half amused.

"I did not attack you."

Jeonghan pinches the bridge of his nose. Joshua's face burns even hotter, "I'm going to my room."

He doesn't wait for a response. He brushes past Jeonghan, walking out too quickly, footsteps heavy down the hallway. The kitchen falls quiet again.

Seokmin watches him go, brows slightly furrowed. His lips part like he wants to say something, but he doesn't. Instead, he just stands there, thoughtful.

Jeonghan looks at Seokmin, then at the hallway, then back at Seokmin.

"He's hopeless," Jeonghan mutters under his breath.

Seokmin doesn't laugh this time. He keeps staring toward the hallway, fingers unconsciously brushing over his own shoulder where Joshua's forehead had hit, like he's replaying the moment in his head.

And somewhere behind his confusion, something begins to feel... different.

The Third Day of the Challenge

The studio hallway smells faintly like air freshener and the coffee Joshua is currently holding with both hands like it contains his fate. The hallway outside is quiet except for distant laughter from another room and the muffled echo of someone practicing vocals down the corridor.

Joshua stares at the cup. Iced americano. No syrup. Extra shot. Light ice. He remembers it perfectly. Of course he does. He adjusts the sleeve around the cup even though it's already secure. His palms feel slightly damp. He wipes them discreetly against his jeans before pushing the studio door open.

Inside, Seokmin is sitting cross-legged on the floor near the couch, lyric sheets scattered around him. His hair falls into his eyes as he hums softly to himself, tapping a pen against the paper. There's a small crease between his brows, the focused one Joshua finds unfairly attractive.

Joshua pauses for half a second just to look at him. Then he clears his throat lightly. "Hey."

Seokmin looks up immediately. And smiles. That automatic, bright smile. Joshua's heart stumbles.

"Hyung! You're done already?" Seokmin asks, pushing his hair back.

Joshua walks over, careful, casual. He holds out the cup like it's not the most important object in the world. "I got you something."

Seokmin blinks, surprised. "For me?"

Joshua shrugs, trying to seem effortless. "Yeah. I remembered your order."

There it is. The line. Delivered as smoothly as he can manage. For a brief, hopeful second, he imagines this being one of those scenes. The kind where Seokmin pauses. Where their eyes meet. Where something shifts.

Seokmin takes the cup, fingers brushing lightly against Joshua's for a fraction of a second. The contact is small but electric to Joshua.

Seokmin's face lights up. "Hyung, you're the best!"

His voice is so warm. So sincere.

Joshua's chest swells. Maybe this is it—

"I'll tell everyone you're the best hyung ever," Seokmin continues brightly, already taking a sip.

Best hyung.

The words land gently, softly. But they land.

Joshua's smile freezes for just a second too long. He nods once. "Yeah. Sure."

Seokmin doesn't notice at first. He hums approvingly after the first sip. "You even got the extra shot. How do you remember that? I barely remember that."

Joshua sits down across from him, folding his legs neatly. "I just... pay attention."

It comes out quieter than he means to.

Seokmin looks up again. This time, he notices. Joshua's smile is still there — polite, small — but it doesn't reach his eyes. His shoulders seem slightly tighter. His fingers are playing absently with the edge of a lyric sheet, folding and unfolding the corner.

Seokmin watches him for a moment longer than usual. "You okay?" he asks lightly.

Joshua looks up too fast. "Yeah. Why?"

"You just got quiet."

"I'm not quiet."

"You are."

Joshua forces a small laugh. "You're imagining things."

Seokmin studies him. Not joking now. His eyes soften slightly, scanning Joshua's face like he's trying to catch something unspoken. He doesn't push. He never pushes. But he notices. He always notices.

Joshua looks away first.

Seokmin takes another sip of coffee, slower this time. His gaze lingers on Joshua for a second before dropping back to the lyric sheet. He doesn't say anything else.

But the room feels a little different now. Joshua stays for a few more minutes, pretending to listen to Seokmin talk about melody changes. Nodding at the right times. Smiling when needed. Inside, though, something feels small and heavy.

Best hyung.

Later that night, Joshua is lying on his bed in the dark, staring at the ceiling. His phone rests on his chest. He debates for exactly thirty seconds before pressing call.

Jeonghan answers on the third ring. "Report."

Joshua groans quietly. "He said best hyung."

There's a pause. Then, "That's not bad."

"He said he'll tell everyone I'm the best hyung ever."

Jeonghan hums thoughtfully. "Maybe he meant best future boyfriend."

Joshua rolls onto his side, pressing the phone closer to his ear. "He didn't."

"You don't know that."

"I do."

Jeonghan can hear the sulk in his voice. He smiles to himself. "Did he smile?"

"Yes."

"Did he look happy?"

"Yes."

"Did he look at you like you hung the moon?"

Joshua hesitates. "...Maybe."

Jeonghan grins. "Then try harder."

Joshua groans again, burying half his face into his pillow. "I hate you."

"No you don't."

There's a small silence.

Joshua's voice softens. "He always calls me hyung."

"And?"

"And I don't want to be just that."

On the other end, Jeonghan's tone shifts slightly. Less teasing now, more certain. "Then stop acting like just that."

Joshua closes his eyes. He replays the moment in the studio. The way Seokmin noticed his mood. The way he asked if he was okay.

Maybe. Maybe there's still something there.

Jeonghan's final words echo in his mind.

Try harder

Joshua exhales slowly into the dark.

One more day has gone.

The Fourth Day of the Challenge

The balcony is dim except for the faint yellow spill of light from the living room behind them. The city stretches out below in scattered constellations of streetlights and apartment windows. A soft February breeze moves through the air, cool enough to brush against skin but not cold enough to sting.

Joshua sits on the floor with his back against the wall, knees slightly bent. Seokmin sits beside him, their shoulders barely touching through thin cotton fabric. The contact is light. Accidental and constant.

Joshua has been rehearsing this all day.

Tonight, I confess.

Seokmin is scrolling through his phone, humming quietly to himself. The sound is soft and familiar. Comfortable. Joshua looks at him from the corner of his eye.

He memorizes the slope of his nose in profile. The way his lashes cast small shadows under the balcony light. The relaxed curve of his mouth.

If not now, then when?

Joshua inhales slowly. "There's something I've wanted to tell you for a long time."

The words come out steadier than he expects. Seokmin's thumb freezes mid-scroll. He goes still for a while. Then slowly, he lowers his phone into his lap and turns his head. He looks at Joshua properly now. Not casually. Not laughing. Just looking.

There's a faint crease between his brows. Confusion, maybe. Or anticipation. His body shifts slightly toward Joshua, knee brushing against his.

Joshua's heart begins pounding so loudly he's convinced Seokmin can hear it. They make eye contact. And hold it. The world feels like it narrows down to just this small space on the balcony floor. The city noise fades into something distant and unimportant. The air feels heavier.

Joshua's mind fills with noise instead.

Say it.
You love him.
It's been years.
You promised Jeonghan.
What if he laughs?
What if he says hyung again?
What if this ruins everything?

Seokmin's eyes soften slightly, searching his face. "Hyung?" he says quietly.

That one word almost breaks Joshua. Joshua's fingers curl against the floor. He swallows as his throat feels dry. He stares at Seokmin's eyes for a long moment. Too long. Long enough that Seokmin's breathing shifts, subtle but noticeable.

And then Joshua says, "I think... February weather is really romantic."

Silence. Seokmin blinks. "...What?"

Joshua nods like this is a perfectly normal continuation. "Cold but not too cold."

He gestures vaguely at the air around them. "Like... you can sit outside and not freeze."

The tension collapses awkwardly. Seokmin's brows pull together. He leans back slightly, studying Joshua's face again, slower this time.

"Are you okay?"

Joshua forces a small laugh. It sounds hollow even to himself. "Yeah. I just— noticed."

"Noticed the weather?"

"Yes."

"In February."

"Yes."

Seokmin tilts his head, clearly sensing that something was supposed to happen and didn't. His eyes linger on Joshua's face again, like he's trying to read between invisible lines. But he doesn't push. He just hums softly. "It is nice, I guess."

Joshua nods too quickly, looking ahead. "Yeah. Nice."

The balcony stays quiet after Joshua's sentence falls flat between them. The breeze moves gently through the space, brushing against their sleeves, shifting a loose strand of Seokmin's hair across his forehead. Somewhere far below, a car horn echoes faintly. The world continues like nothing monumental just failed.

But the air between them changes. Joshua feels it immediately. It becomes thick and fragile. He keeps staring ahead, pretending to admire the skyline, but he can feel Seokmin looking at him.

Not confused now. Just... looking. Softly.

Joshua's brows slowly knit together without him realizing. His jaw tightens slightly. His mind is racing.

You ruined it.
You had it.
He was listening.
Why did you say weather?
Why are you like this?

Beside him, Seokmin shifts just a little closer. Not enough to make it obvious. Just enough. Joshua feels the warmth from his shoulder again and it makes everything worse. He keeps replaying the moment in his head. The eye contact. The way Seokmin's breathing changed. The way he said "Hyung?" like he was ready for something real.

And Joshua gave him meteorology. His eyebrows press tighter together. Seokmin notices. Of course he does. For a few seconds, Seokmin just watches him quietly. The city lights reflect faintly in his eyes. His expression softens in a way that's almost careful.

Then, slowly, Seokmin lifts his hand. Joshua doesn't see it coming. Warm fingers brush lightly against his forehead. Joshua freezes.

Seokmin's fingertips gently smooth over Joshua's knitted brows, tracing the small crease between them. His thumb lingers right at the center, pressing softly like he's trying to physically erase the frown.

"Why are you frowning?" Seokmin asks quietly. His voice is gentle. No teasing. No laughter. Just concern.

Joshua's entire body goes hot. It spreads from the point of contact outward — forehead, cheeks, ears, down his neck. His breath catches in his throat. He wasn't prepared for touch. Not like this. Not when he's already unraveling.

Seokmin's face is closer now. His hand is still there. Still touching him.

Joshua's heart starts pounding so loudly it feels dangerous. "I—" His voice cracks slightly. He clears his throat. "It's nothing."

Seokmin's thumb makes one last small, absentminded stroke between his brows before his hand drops back to his own lap. But the warmth lingers. Joshua can't look at him. If he does, he might actually confess this time. And that terrifies him more than embarrassment.

He suddenly pushes himself up from the floor. The movement is abrupt enough that Seokmin instinctively tilts his head upward to follow him. His eyes track Joshua's face as he stands, the balcony light now catching the slight flush on Joshua's cheeks.

"You're leaving?" Seokmin asks softly.

Joshua avoids eye contact. "I'm tired. I'm gonna sleep." It comes out too fast. Too rehearsed.

Seokmin studies him again. His gaze moves slowly over Joshua's face, like he's trying to memorize something or piece something together. Joshua feels exposed under it.

Seokmin nods once. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight," Joshua whispers. And then he practically bolts. He doesn't walk, he escapes.

The balcony door slides shut behind him with a quiet sound. Seokmin remains seated on the floor. Alone now. The breeze brushes against him again, but the space feels emptier somehow.

He looks down at his own hand — the one that touched Joshua's forehead — and flexes his fingers slightly, like replaying the sensation.

Joshua has been weird lately. Staring too long. Getting flustered too easily. Saying strange things. Looking at him like he wants to say something and then... not saying it.

Seokmin exhales slowly. He leans back against the wall, eyes drifting to the closed balcony door. "...Hyung," he murmurs to himself quietly.

He doesn't smile. He doesn't laugh. He just sits there for a long time, staring out at the city lights, thinking. And for the first time, he admits to himself that something is definitely up.

And maybe...

Maybe he's not as clueless as Joshua thinks.

Throughout the week, Jeonghan becomes less of a bystander and more of a full-time audience member. He doesn't even have to try. Joshua is unintentionally loud about his suffering.

—

One afternoon in the practice room, Jeonghan is lying flat on his back, pretending to rest while scrolling through his phone. The music has stopped for a break. The room is warm, slightly humid from hours of rehearsal.

Across the room, Seokmin is laughing at something one of the members says, head thrown back, eyes crinkling. Joshua is sitting on the floor with a water bottle in his hands. He isn't drinking it. He's just staring. Not blinking. Not moving. Just staring.

Jeonghan slowly lowers his phone an inch and watches him from under his lashes. Joshua leans slightly toward himself and whispers, almost soundlessly, "You can do this. You're confident. You're attractive. You are not going to say something about bone structure today."

Jeonghan bites the inside of his cheek to stop himself from laughing.

Joshua nods to himself once, like he's just signed a contract. Then Seokmin looks over and smiles in his direction. Joshua short-circuits immediately. He looks down at his bottle and pretends to be extremely interested in the label.

Jeonghan sighs quietly.

Hopeless.

—

Later that night at Joshua's dorm, Jeonghan is passing by the bathroom when he hears murmuring. He slows down.

"...You have really nice..." Joshua's voice trails off.

Jeonghan stops completely and leans slightly closer to the cracked door.

"...You have really nice hands," Joshua tries again, voice low and experimental.

There's a pause.

"No, that sounds weird."

Another pause.

"You have nice... elbows."

Jeonghan closes his eyes slowly. Inside the bathroom, Joshua is standing in front of the mirror, staring at his reflection like it personally betrayed him. He adjusts his hair, straightens his shirt and tries a softer expression.

"You have nice elbows," he repeats, attempting charm.

The bathroom door creaks open. Joshua freezes. Jeonghan stands there, arms crossed, leaning against the frame. "Elbows," Jeonghan repeats flatly.

Joshua's ears immediately turn red. "You heard that."

"I wish I didn't."

Joshua groans and covers his face with both hands. "Why am I like this?"

Jeonghan steps inside casually, examining Joshua's reflection in the mirror. "You're overthinking."

"I'm not."

"You are."

Joshua drops his hands and points at himself in the mirror. "He touched my face yesterday."

Jeonghan's eyebrow lifts. "And you responded with... elbows?"

Joshua looks like he might collapse into the sink.

—

Another evening, Jeonghan walks into the living room to find Joshua standing near the window, staring out dramatically. Seokmin is on the couch behind him, completely unaware, watching a show and laughing at the screen.

Joshua whispers under his breath, barely audible, "Be natural. Just sit next to him. Just sit." He takes one step forward. Stops. Takes a deep breath. Turns around instead and walks to the kitchen.

Jeonghan watches the entire sequence silently. When Joshua disappears, Jeonghan moves to sit beside Seokmin casually.

"Do you feel stared at a lot lately?" Jeonghan asks innocently.

Seokmin pauses the show and looks at him slowly. "...Why?"

Jeonghan smiles faintly. "No reason."

Seokmin narrows his eyes slightly but doesn't press. Jeonghan files that reaction away.

Interesting.

—

That night, Jeonghan collapses onto the couch next to Seungcheol, who is scrolling lazily through his phone. The apartment lights are dim. It's quiet except for the faint hum of the air conditioner.

Jeonghan lets out a long, theatrical sigh.

Seungcheol glances at him. "What now?"

"He's not even bad at flirting," Jeonghan mutters, staring at the ceiling.

Seungcheol hums. "Then what is he?"

Jeonghan turns his head slowly.

"He's bad at existing."

Seungcheol laughs under his breath. "You created this monster."

Jeonghan's lips curve upward slowly. "I did."

He folds his arms behind his head, eyes gleaming faintly in the dim light.

"And I will finish what I started."

Seungcheol eyes him cautiously. "What does that mean?"

Jeonghan doesn't answer immediately. He just smiles to himself, already piecing something together in that dangerously calm mind of his. A new plan forming. Something that will push Joshua exactly where he needs to go.

Somewhere in the city, Joshua is probably whispering compliments to his reflection again.

And Jeonghan is already three steps ahead.

The Sixth Day of the Challenge

The dining table is loud with the sound of meat sizzling and oil popping against the grill. Smoke curls lazily upward, carrying the rich, savory scent of barbecue through the apartment. The window is cracked open, and cool night air drifts in, brushing gently against overheated skin.

Seungcheol is in charge of the grill, sleeves slightly pushed up, concentration written across his face as he flips a strip of pork with steady hands. The metal tongs click rhythmically. Across from him, Seokmin is arranging lettuce leaves into neat stacks, occasionally glancing at the grill to make sure nothing burns.

Joshua excuses himself to the washroom. The hallway door clicks shut. Jeonghan waits. He doesn't look up immediately. He just casually reaches for his drink, takes a slow sip, then sets it down.

"Seokmin," he says lightly.

Seokmin hums in response, still focused on separating a stubborn lettuce leaf.

"Don't you think Joshua's been... acting a little strange lately?"

Seokmin pauses. The lettuce leaf remains half-pulled in his hands. "Strange?" he repeats, looking up.

Jeonghan shrugs like it's nothing. "Yeah. Like he's trying to do something."

Seungcheol glances briefly at Jeonghan, already sensing the direction of this conversation. He says nothing yet, but the corner of his mouth twitches.

Seokmin tilts his head. "Trying to do what?"

Jeonghan pretends to think, tapping his chopsticks against his lips thoughtfully. "I don't know... maybe flirting?"

The word lands gently but deliberately. Seokmin stills completely. The faint crackling of the grill suddenly feels louder. He blinks once. "Flirting?"

Jeonghan nods slowly. "Mhm."

Seokmin lets out a small, disbelieving breath. "Why do you think that?"

Seungcheol flips another piece of meat, but now he's clearly listening. Jeonghan leans his elbow on the table, resting his chin in his hand. "Well. He stares at you a lot."

Seokmin immediately protests, but it comes out weaker than expected. "He doesn't."

"He does," Seungcheol adds casually without looking up from the grill. "Like a documentary narrator observing wildlife."

Seokmin's ears tint slightly pink. "That's not true."

Jeonghan smiles faintly. "He also panics whenever you touch him."

Seokmin's fingers freeze around his chopsticks. Seungcheol nods once. "Kitchen incident."

Seokmin's eyes widen slightly. "You noticed that?"

"Jeonghan told me," Seungcheol replies dryly. Jeonghan continues, voice gentle but pointed. "And don't you think he likes you a bit too much for just a friend?"

That makes Seokmin go quiet. Not defensive. Not confused. Just... thoughtful. The question settles into him slowly. Too much for a friend. His gaze drops briefly to the table, mind replaying moments — the coffee, the staring, the way Joshua's voice shifts when it's just the two of them, the frown on the balcony.

Seokmin exhales softly. "...Are you sure?" he asks, quieter now.

Jeonghan watches him carefully. "You don't feel it?"

Seokmin presses his lips together, thinking. He thinks about the way Joshua looks at him sometimes like he's standing too close to a fire and doesn't know whether to step in or run away.

He thinks about the forehead touch from that night. About the frown. About how Joshua always seems like he's holding something back. And then, slowly, Seokmin's mouth curves upward. He lets out a soft laugh under his breath after realizing, shaking his head.

"Why is he so..." He trails off, eyes drifting toward the hallway unconsciously. "...cute?"

Seungcheol raises an eyebrow. Jeonghan doesn't even try to hide his satisfied smile now. Seokmin's expression softens further. There's no confusion in it anymore. Just warmth, amusement and something fond.

"He should've just confessed," Seokmin murmurs quietly, almost to himself.

Jeonghan hums knowingly. "Maybe he's building up to it."

Seokmin chuckles softly. "He's not good at flirting at all."

"No," Seungcheol agrees. "He's painfully bad."

Seokmin laughs again, but this time there's a glint in his eyes. Something shifts behind the softness, something more playful.

The washroom door clicks open. All three of them glance toward the hallway. Joshua steps out, drying his hands with a small towel. His hair is slightly messy, cheeks faintly flushed from the warmth inside. He looks up instinctively toward the table. His eyes land on Seokmin.

They hold eye contact. Joshua smiles soft. A little shy. A little hopeful. Seokmin looks at him differently now. Now that the thought has settled into place. Now that he's aware. His lips curve upward slowly. But this smile is sharper, smaller and intentional.

Joshua falters just slightly under it. Inside Seokmin's head, something clicks.

Flirting, huh?

He watches Joshua walk back toward the table, noticing the slight stiffness in his shoulders, the way he avoids direct eye contact for more than a second.

You think you've been flirting?

Seokmin leans back in his chair casually, eyes following him.

Okay, Shua hyung.

His smile turns faintly smug.

Now you're going to see my flirting.

And across the table, Jeonghan leans back with quiet satisfaction, knowing the game has just flipped entirely. Joshua, meanwhile, has absolutely no idea.

The Seventh Day of the Challenge

Morning light spills through the tall windows of the practice room, thin and pale, catching in the faint dust floating through the air. The wooden floor is cool and smooth beneath Joshua's sneakers, worn in certain spots where countless turns have been practiced.

Their dance practice hasn't started yet. The speakers are silent. A low murmur of distant voices echoes faintly from the hallway, but inside the room, it feels suspended. Like time is waiting.

Joshua stands near the mirror with his arms loosely crossed, shoulders slightly hunched in a way he doesn't notice. His reflection looks composed. Calm eyes, neutral face but his brows are faintly drawn together. Seventh day. The last day of the challenge.

His tongue presses against the inside of his cheek as the thought settles heavily in his chest. He replays everything in small, painful flashes—the awkward balcony moment, the failed lines, the flustered retreats. Every time he tried to be bold, he ended up embarrassed. Every time he tried to flirt, he felt like he was malfunctioning.

He exhales slowly through his nose. Maybe I already lost. The thought makes his shoulders sink just a little more. He drops his arms to his sides and stares at his own eyes in the mirror, searching for some kind of reassurance. There is none. Just mild frustration and something softer underneath it, something that feels too much like longing.

The door opens behind him. He doesn't turn. He assumes it's one of the others arriving. Footsteps cross the floor. A bag drops somewhere near the corner. A soft laugh. Normal sounds. Ordinary morning.

And then—

A hand settles on the right side of his waist. Not abrupt. Not rough. Slow, intentional and very gentle.

The warmth seeps through the thin fabric of his shirt immediately. Fingers curve gently around his side, the thumb resting just slightly forward, brushing the faintest arc against his waist as if testing the shape of it. Joshua's breath halts mid-inhale. His spine straightens instantly, every muscle going tight. The world narrows down to that single point of contact. He can feel each fingertip distinctly, the pressure light but unmistakable.

His heart stutters once, then starts pounding hard enough that he feels it in his throat.

He turns his head to the left.

Seokmin is standing close, so close that Joshua can see the faint crease near his eyes when he smiles. His expression is warm, polite, almost harmless. Like he hasn't just invaded Joshua's personal space in the most devastating way possible.

"Hey, hyung," Seokmin says gently, lips curved upward.

Joshua's eyes widen before he can stop himself. He tries to speak but nothing comes out. His mouth opens slightly, then closes. His brain feels like static. The hand on his waist hasn't moved. If anything, the thumb strokes once, subtle and slow, and Joshua's ears immediately begin to burn.

Seokmin tilts his head just a little, studying him. He watches as a faint flush creeps up Joshua's neck and spreads across his cheeks. It's visible and obvious. Joshua can feel it happening and hates that he can't control it. His hands hover awkwardly near his sides, unsure whether to push Seokmin away or pretend this is normal.

Seokmin lifts his other hand, the left one unhurriedly. His right hand remains on Joshua's waist, steady, warm. The left hand rises to Joshua's face and pauses for half a second before touching him. His fingertips brush against Joshua's cheek. The contact is feather-light at first, then slightly firmer, as if confirming what he already sees.

Joshua inhales sharply.

"Why are you so red, hyung?" Seokmin asks softly, eyes wide with faux innocence. His thumb strokes lightly over the warm skin of Joshua's cheekbone, as if he genuinely cannot figure it out.

Joshua forces himself to blink. To breathe. He can feel the heat beneath Seokmin's fingers, and the proximity is overwhelming. "It's just hot in here," he says quickly, voice tighter than he intends. He clears his throat immediately after, trying to smooth it out. "That's all."

Seokmin hums thoughtfully. "Hmm. Really?" His tone is light, but there's something teasing hidden underneath it.

Joshua nods, too fast. "Yeah." His eyes lock with Seokmin's despite himself. He wants to look away, but he can't. There's something steady and deliberate in Seokmin's gaze now, something that makes Joshua's stomach flip. The silence stretches between them. Joshua becomes hyperaware of everything—the faint scent of Seokmin's cologne, the warmth of his palm at his waist, the way his own breathing sounds uneven.

For a brief second, Joshua thinks Seokmin might say something else.

Instead, Seokmin lets his fingers linger on Joshua's cheek just a fraction longer before slowly pulling his left hand away. His right hand remains at Joshua's waist for one more deliberate heartbeat. Then, with the faintest squeeze—so subtle Joshua almost questions if it happened—he removes it too.

The sudden absence of warmth feels louder than the touch itself.

Seokmin steps back casually, adjusting the hem of his sleeve as if this interaction was nothing more than a normal greeting. "Practice is starting soon," he says lightly. He turns and walks toward the others who have begun gathering in the center of the room. His shoulders are relaxed. His posture easy.

But there's a small, satisfied smile playing on his lips.

He doesn't look back.

Joshua remains exactly where he is. His hands slowly rise to his own cheeks, pressing against the lingering heat as if trying to cool it down. His heart is still racing, thudding heavily against his ribs. He stares at Seokmin's back across the room, watching as he laughs at something another member says, completely composed.

It hits him then, slowly and humiliatingly clear.

He did that on purpose.

Joshua swallows hard. Seventh day. And somehow, instead of winning anything, he feels like he's the one being completely undone. He stands there, flustered and breathless, long after the music finally blasts through the speakers and practice officially begins.

The music starts with a heavy bass that vibrates faintly through the wooden floor. The members spread out into formation, sneakers squeaking softly as they take their places. The mirrored wall reflects them in endless repetition—movements, angles, expressions. Joshua slips into his spot automatically, muscle memory guiding him even though his mind is still somewhere else entirely.

He can still feel it. The warmth on his waist. The brush of fingers against his cheek. He exhales slowly and focuses on the counts. Five, six, seven, eight—

They begin. The choreography is sharp today. Clean lines. Quick transitions. Joshua concentrates on his footwork, on the angle of his arms, on keeping his breathing steady. He tells himself to ignore everything else.

It lasts exactly ten minutes. They pause to reset the formation. A few members step aside to grab water. Joshua bends slightly, hands on his hips, catching his breath. He's staring at the floor when he feels it again—

A presence behind him. Close. Too close.

Seokmin leans in as if to look at the mirror over Joshua's shoulder. Their reflections overlap. Joshua straightens instinctively.

"You look really good today, hyung," Seokmin murmurs softly. It's quiet enough that it doesn't carry beyond them. His voice brushes against Joshua's ear, low and warm. Joshua freezes mid-breath. He turns his head slightly. "What?"

Seokmin smiles innocently in the mirror. "Your lines. They're really clean."

Joshua blinks. "Oh. Thanks."

His voice comes out smaller than he intends. He turns back quickly, pretending to stretch his neck so Seokmin won't see the way his ears are turning red again.

They reset. Music starts again. This time, during a partnered transition, Seokmin steps behind Joshua. It's part of the choreography but the way his hands settle on Joshua's waist to guide him into position is not necessary. The grip is gentle but deliberate, fingers spreading slightly as if memorizing the shape.

"Back straighter," Seokmin says softly, almost helpful.

Joshua's spine snaps upright immediately. Seokmin's palms slide just a fraction upward along his sides before releasing. "There," he adds, satisfied.

Joshua's brain short-circuits. That was normal. That was practice. That was correction. Right?

Except—

Seokmin's hands lingered.

The next run-through, they switch angles. Joshua moves forward on count four, turns on five—and collides lightly with Seokmin's shoulder. It's minor, avoidable. But, Seokmin doesn't move away.

Instead, his shoulder presses back gently before separating. "Sorry," he says, but he's smiling.

Joshua swallows. "It's fine."

During a water break, Joshua reaches down to grab his bottle at the exact same moment Seokmin does. Their fingers brush. Joshua jerks his hand back like he's been shocked.

Seokmin doesn't. Instead, he lets his fingertips trail briefly across Joshua's knuckles before picking up his own bottle.

"You're jumpy today," Seokmin teases lightly.

"I'm not," Joshua insists too quickly.

Seokmin tilts his head, amused.

Later, during a slow section of choreography, they're side by side in the mirror. Seokmin glances at Joshua's reflection instead of his own. Joshua can feel it without looking.

On count eight, they're supposed to turn outward. Seokmin doesn't immediately. He leans slightly closer instead, close enough that his breath grazes Joshua's ear again. "You smell nice," he whispers.

Joshua misses the next count completely. "Sorry!" he blurts when he steps late into formation.

Seungcheol sighs from across the room. "Focus."

Joshua nods quickly, mortified. Seokmin looks perfectly composed.

From the far corner, Jeonghan watches everything. He's leaning casually against the wall, arms in his pockets, eyes half-lidded in quiet amusement. He notices every subtle touch. Every deliberate brush of shoulders. Every whisper that makes Joshua's steps falter by half a second.

When Seokmin adjusts Joshua's collar during a break—fingers smoothing the fabric slowly, unnecessarily—Jeonghan has to hide his smile behind his hand.

Joshua stands there stiffly while Seokmin fixes nothing in particular.

"There was dust," Seokmin says casually.

"There wasn't," Joshua replies faintly. Seokmin only smiles.

They run the routine again. Joshua is hyperaware now. Every time Seokmin moves near him, his pulse spikes in anticipation. When their arms swing back during synchronized steps, Seokmin's pinky hooks briefly with Joshua's.

Accident?

Joshua doesn't know.

Seokmin absolutely does. He enjoys the way Joshua's breathing changes. The way his composure cracks so easily. The way a simple whisper makes him lose rhythm. There's something endearing about how obvious it is.

During the final run-through, Seokmin steps close once more, hand resting lightly at Joshua's lower back as they prepare for the next formation shift.

"Don't overthink it," he murmurs quietly.

Joshua stiffens. "I'm not."

Seokmin smiles because they both know that's a lie.

Across the room, Jeonghan catches Seokmin's expression and raises an eyebrow knowingly. Seokmin doesn't react outwardly, but the corner of his mouth lifts just slightly.

By the time practice ends, Joshua is exhausted in a way that has nothing to do with dancing. His cheeks have burned on and off the entire session. His thoughts are tangled and confused.

Why is Seokmin doing this?

Was he always like this?

Is this normal?

He glances across the room one more time.

Seokmin is laughing with the others again, bright and harmless and completely at ease. But when their eyes meet, Seokmin's gaze lingers for half a second too long.

And Joshua's heart betrays him all over again.

The Same Day

The apartment is unusually quiet for once. The television is off, the kitchen lights dimmed, and only the soft yellow glow from the standing lamp in the corner spills across the living room. It casts long, gentle shadows over the couch and the low coffee table cluttered with a few forgotten water bottles and a folded hoodie. Outside the window, the city hums faintly—distant cars passing, a muted siren somewhere far away, the night air pressing cool against the glass.

Joshua sits alone on the couch, elbows resting loosely on his knees, fingers laced together. He isn't looking at anything in particular. His eyes are unfocused, fixed on the dark television screen reflecting a blurred version of himself. His hair falls slightly over his forehead, and every now and then he pushes it back absentmindedly, only for it to fall again.

His mind won't quiet down.

He keeps replaying the practice room. The hand on his waist. The whisper in his ear. The way Seokmin's fingers brushed against his knuckles and didn't pull away immediately. The soft "you smell nice" that ruined his timing. His jaw tightens at the memory, and he exhales slowly through his nose.

He lost.

Seventh day came and went, and instead of confidently completing some ridiculous challenge, he spent the entire time flustered and breathless. He leans back into the couch and drags a hand down his face, fingers pressing briefly over his eyes.

"Coward," he mutters under his breath.

The word tastes bitter. He drops his hand and stares at the ceiling now, the faint whir of the heater filling the silence. Why couldn't he just say something? Why couldn't he just look Seokmin in the eyes and admit that he likes him? Instead, he hid behind teasing attempts and awkward touches and ended up being the one undone.

His fingers curl into the fabric of his sweatpants. Should he just confess? The thought makes his stomach twist. What if Seokmin was just playing around? What if he misunderstood everything? What if he ruins whatever this strange, delicate thing is between them?

He sighs again, softer this time, shoulders sinking further into the cushions. The lamp light makes his skin look warmer than it feels. The room is comfortable, familiar, safe. But his chest feels restless.

A door clicks open down the hallway.

Joshua doesn't move at first. He assumes that it's the wind. Soft footsteps pad against the floorboards, unhurried. Then they pause.

Seokmin stands at the end of the hallway, leaning lightly against the wall as he takes in the sight before him. Joshua sitting still, head tilted slightly back and completely lost in thought. The living room light outlines his profile gently, catching the curve of his cheek and the faint crease between his brows.

A quiet laugh escapes Seokmin before he can stop it. Not loud. Just a soft breath of amusement. He pushes off the wall and walks over, steps light but deliberate. "Hyung."

Joshua jolts.

His shoulders jump visibly, and he nearly knocks his knee against the coffee table. His eyes snap forward, wide, heart instantly racing from the sudden break in silence. "God—" he exhales sharply, pressing a hand to his chest. "You scared me."

Seokmin laughs again, this time a little clearer, the sound warm and fond. He stops right in front of the couch, looking down at Joshua with an expression that borders on affectionate. "You were spacing out so hard," he says, smiling. "I called you twice in my head before actually saying it."

Joshua looks away quickly, embarrassed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I was just thinking."

"Mm," Seokmin hums knowingly. He doesn't ask about what. He doesn't need to. The faint pink creeping up Joshua's neck is answer enough.

There's a small pause, comfortable but charged. Seokmin rocks slightly on his heels before speaking again. "Do you want to go to the rooftop?" he asks casually. "The weather's nice tonight. It's not too cold."

Joshua blinks up at him. The invitation catches him off guard, but not unpleasantly. He hesitates for only a second before nodding. "Yeah. Okay."

Seokmin's smile widens just a little, pleased. "Okay." He turns toward the door, grabbing a light jacket from the hanger by the entrance and tossing another one gently toward Joshua. Joshua catches it automatically, standing up from the couch. For a brief moment, they stand close near the doorway, the air between them feeling different from earlier—quieter, heavier.

Seokmin reaches for the door handle and pulls it open. Cool hallway air drifts in immediately. Joshua steps out first this time, and Seokmin follows, pulling the door shut behind them. There's a soft metallic click as he locks it, the sound echoing faintly in the corridor.

Neither of them speaks as they walk toward the stairwell. The building is mostly asleep, lights dimmed, footsteps muted. Their shoulders brush once as they turn the corner, and neither of them comments on it.

The rooftop door shuts behind them with a muted metallic click, and the sound seems to echo longer than it should in the open night air. Joshua steps forward first, breathing in slowly. The wind brushes past him, cooler up here, tugging lightly at the hem of his jacket and pushing a few strands of hair across his forehead. The city stretches out beyond the short concrete wall, glowing in scattered yellows and whites. Somewhere below, a car passes, the faint hum rising and fading.

He slips his hands into his pockets, shoulders relaxing just slightly. "The weather's really nice," he says, glancing up at the sky as if to confirm it. "It's not even that cold." His voice carries easily in the open space. He starts walking along the edge of the rooftop, sneakers scuffing softly against the rough concrete. "It's quieter up here too. I like it."

He keeps talking, unaware. Filling the space. Trying not to think too hard about why Seokmin invited him up here in the first place.

Behind him, Seokmin closes the door gently and doesn't move right away. He just watches. The way Joshua's shoulders rise and fall with each breath. The way he tilts his head when he talks. The way he looks calmer under the open sky.

A slow, knowing smirk curves onto Seokmin's lips.

Joshua keeps walking, gaze drifting toward the city lights. "We should come up more often," he adds absentmindedly. He doesn't hear Seokmin's footsteps quicken. He only feels it when fingers wrap around his wrist.

The touch is sudden but not harsh. It's warm and gentle. Joshua gasps softly as he's pulled backward, his balance shifting unexpectedly. "What—?" His heart jumps violently in his chest as his body stumbles half a step.

Seokmin's grip remains gentle but firm, his fingers curled securely around Joshua's wrist. He had followed quietly, eyes fixed on Joshua's back, and when the moment felt right, he reached out without hesitation. Now he pulls him steadily toward the far side of the rooftop.

Joshua's back meets the concrete wall with a soft thud. The chill from it seeps faintly through his jacket. His breath catches, eyes wide as he looks at Seokmin in disbelief. "What are you doing?" he asks, voice higher than usual, surprise and nerves mixing together.

Seokmin doesn't answer immediately. He steps forward once, slow and deliberate. The rooftop light above casts soft shadows across his face, highlighting the faint curve of his smile. "Recently," he begins calmly, voice lower now, almost thoughtful, "I've heard something."

Joshua's pulse pounds in his ears. "What did you hear?" he asks quickly, confusion flickering across his face.

Seokmin takes another step closer. Joshua instinctively shifts backward again, but there's nowhere left to go. The wall presses firmly against his back now. His hands hover awkwardly near his chest, unsure where to land.

"A little birdie told me," Seokmin continues, eyes steady on Joshua's, "that you've been trying to flirt with me." He stops inches away.

The space between them shrinks until Joshua can feel the warmth radiating from Seokmin's body. The air feels heavier.

"Is that true, hyung?" Seokmin asks softly, the faintest tease lingering in his tone.

Joshua's mouth goes dry. He can't think. Seokmin is too close. Close enough that Joshua notices the way his lashes cast faint shadows under the rooftop light. Close enough to see the tiny curve at the corner of his lips.

Seokmin lifts one hand and places it against the wall beside Joshua's head, arm braced there, effectively trapping him in place. The other hand slides slowly to Joshua's waist. His palm settles there gently, thumb brushing a small, lazy stroke along his side.

Joshua inhales sharply, his back arching ever so slightly from the contact before he can stop himself.

Seokmin notices. His gaze drops briefly to Joshua's lips before lifting back to his eyes. "I asked you something," he murmurs again, leaning just a fraction closer. "Is it true?"

Joshua's cheeks burn. His entire face feels hot, and he knows it shows. His fingers curl into the fabric of his tee without him realizing. "...Yes," he admits finally, barely above a whisper, looking down. The word leaves him small and shy and completely exposed.

Seokmin's expression softens immediately. The teasing melts into something warmerHe steps closer still, closing the gap until their chests nearly brush with each breath. Joshua's hands come up instinctively and press flat against Seokmin's chest, not to push him away, but to steady himself. He can feel the warmth through the thin fabric, the steady rhythm of Seokmin's breathing.

Both of Seokmin's hands now rest at Joshua's waist. His thumbs move slowly, gently caressing the sides as if savoring the reaction it causes.

"Why?" Seokmin asks quietly. "Why did you want to flirt with me?"

Joshua's thoughts tangle together. This is the moment. He could back out. He could laugh it off. But Seokmin's eyes are watching him so carefully, so patiently, that the truth spills out instead.

"It started as a challenge," Joshua blurts, words rushing out unevenly. "Jeonghan said I don't have the guts to make a move on you. I thought I could win in a week. I thought I could be confident about it." His voice shakes slightly. "But it wasn't just that. I didn't just want to win. I wanted..." He swallows hard, forcing himself to keep going. "I wanted you to be my boyfriend. I wanted to spend Valentine's with you. Not because of a bet. Because I like you."

The confession hangs in the air between them, fragile and real. Seokmin blinks once, then lets out a soft, surprised laugh. "A challenge?" he repeats, smiling wider. "With Jeonghan hyung?"

Joshua nods, embarrassed. "Yeah. I know it sounds dumb."

"You didn't have to do that," Seokmin says gently. "You could've just confessed. I would've said yes."

Joshua's breath stutters. "Wait." His eyes widen. "You... you like me too?"

Instead of answering directly, Seokmin leans forward until their foreheads press together softly. The contact sends a warm shiver down Joshua's spine. Their noses brush lightly. Their breaths mingle, warm against parted lips.

Seokmin's voice drops to a whisper. "Isn't that kind of obvious, hyung?" The words graze over Joshua's lips as he speaks. Joshua makes a small, involuntary sound and leans forward instinctively, trying to close the tiny space left between them. But Seokmin pulls back just enough to stop him.

Joshua's fingers tighten against his shirt. "Ah—"

"Say it first," Seokmin murmurs, eyes sparkling with affection and mischief.

"Say what?" Joshua breathes, dazed.

"Say that you like me."

Joshua looks at him, heart pounding so hard it feels like it might burst. He doesn't look away this time. "I love you," he says softly, voice steady despite the heat in his face.

Seokmin's smile spreads wide, bright and full and completely genuine.

This time, he doesn't tease.

Seokmin closes the distance slowly this time, deliberately, giving Joshua just enough time to feel it coming. Their lips meet softly at first, a gentle press that feels almost tentative compared to everything that led up to it. Joshua's breath stutters the moment their mouths touch. The world seems to narrow to warmth and closeness and the faint brush of skin against skin.

Seokmin tilts his head slightly, deepening the angle. His lips move against Joshua's with more intention now, slow and unhurried at first, as if savoring the feeling. Joshua's hands are still fisted lightly in Seokmin's shirt, unsure where to go. Seokmin pulls back just enough to look at him for half a second. Joshua's eyes are already half-lidded, cheeks flushed, lips parted.

That expression alone makes Seokmin lean in again.

This time the kiss grows warmer. Their lips press more firmly, moving together in a slow rhythm. Joshua makes a soft sound into the kiss, barely audible, and it encourages Seokmin further. He gently catches Joshua's bottom lip between his own, sucking lightly, just enough to make Joshua's breath hitch sharply.

Joshua's fingers twitch against Seokmin's chest.

Seokmin takes Joshua's wrists gently. Without breaking the closeness, he guides Joshua's hands upward and wraps them around his neck. Joshua's arms slide into place instinctively, fingers curling into the fabric at the back of Seokmin's collar before slipping into his hair.

Seokmin's hands move to Joshua's waist again, firmer this time. He pulls him closer until there is no space left between them, their bodies pressed flush. Joshua gasps softly at the sudden closeness, and Seokmin takes the opportunity to kiss him deeper, slower, more certain.

The night air feels distant now. All Joshua can feel is warmth.

Seokmin's hands glide along Joshua's sides, then slip beneath the hem of his tee. His palms meet warm skin underneath, fingers spreading against Joshua's lower back. The touch is gentle but exploratory, one hand sliding slowly up and down his back, tracing the curve of his spine through thin fabric.

Joshua gasps into the kiss at the unexpected contact, the sound swallowed by Seokmin's mouth. His grip tightens in Seokmin's hair, fingers threading through it and tugging slightly without meaning to. The sensation pulls a quiet, pleased hum from Seokmin.

The kiss grows more intense, more breathless. Their movements lose some of the earlier hesitation. Joshua leans fully into it now, responding instinctively, lips moving with more urgency. Seokmin keeps him close, his palms still warm beneath his tee, sliding slowly across his back.

They lose track of time.

Joshua's lungs begin to burn faintly, but Seokmin doesn't pull away. He keeps kissing him, unrelenting but not rough, as if he's been waiting for this for far too long. Joshua tries to catch a breath between movements, but Seokmin's lips follow his, stealing it away again.

Eventually Joshua lets out a muffled, breathless sound and taps lightly against Seokmin's back, fingers pressing urgently.

Seokmin understands immediately. He slows, then pulls back just slightly, their lips still brushing as they separate. Their foreheads remain close, noses almost touching. Both of them are breathing heavily now, chests rising and falling against each other.

Joshua's lips are flushed and slightly swollen, parted as he tries to steady his breathing. Seokmin's thumb traces a small circle at Joshua's waist beneath the tee before slipping his hand back out, resting it gently at his side.

"I love you too," Seokmin whispers softly, voice warm and steady despite his uneven breathing.

Joshua's eyes flutter open fully at that, and a slow smile spreads across his face. It's shy, but radiant. "You do?" he asks unnecessarily, still catching his breath.

Seokmin laughs quietly, the sound fond and breathless. "I do."

They stay close for a moment longer, just looking at each other, both smiling in that soft, disbelieving way that comes after something long-awaited finally happens.

Then Seokmin tilts his head slightly, eyes gleaming. "Hyung," he says lightly, "you won the challenge."

Joshua blinks, the words taking a second to register. Then realization dawns across his face. He laughs softly, the sound warm and relieved, and leans forward again, pressing himself closer to Seokmin without hesitation this time. "I guess I did," he murmurs, smiling against him.

Seokmin grins and leans in to press a long, lingering kiss to Joshua's cheek instead, slow and affectionate. His lips stay there for a moment before he pulls back, both of them still smiling under the quiet rooftop sky, city lights glowing softly below as the night wraps gently around them.

They stay like that a little longer, quiet and close, no more teasing left. Just the steady reassurance of shared warmth and matching heartbeats. Eventually, Seokmin pulls back just enough to take Joshua's hand, intertwining their fingers naturally, like it's always belonged there.

"Let's go back down before someone comes looking," he says gently.

Joshua nods, squeezing his hand once before they walk toward the rooftop door together. This time, they don't leave space between them. Their shoulders brush with every step, and neither of them pretends it's accidental.

As the door closes behind them and the rooftop returns to quiet, the night holds the echo of soft laughter and the beginning of something neither of them will ever call a challenge again.

Epilogue

The room is still wrapped in the soft hush of early morning, pale sunlight slipping through the curtains in thin golden lines that stretch across the bed. The air feels warm and lazy, heavy with the comfort of sleep. Joshua lies on his back, face half-buried in his pillow, blanket tangled loosely around his waist. His breathing is slow and steady, lips slightly parted, hair falling gently over his forehead.

A soft pressure brushes against his cheek. It lingers for a second longer than a dream would. Then another touch presses against his forehead. His temple. The tip of his nose.

A faint warmth follows each touch.

A kiss.

Joshua shifts faintly, brows twitching as he exhales, still asleep. Another kiss lands on his chin, then the corner of his lips, then both cheeks in quick succession. Whoever is hovering above him is clearly enjoying this.

"Hyung..." a quiet voice whispers fondly, breath warm against his skin. "Wake up."

Joshua stirs again, eyelashes fluttering but not opening. He hums softly, trying to burrow deeper into the pillow. Seokmin smiles down at him, eyes curving into crescents. His hair falls forward as he leans closer, unable to stop himself from pressing yet another kiss to Joshua's cheek, slower this time, savoring it.

"Hyung," he murmurs again, brushing his nose lightly against Joshua's skin. "Wake upppp."

Joshua finally begins to surface. His face scrunches slightly before relaxing, and he slowly blinks his eyes open.

The first thing he sees is Seokmin's face hovering inches above his own. Seokmin's expression is bright and unbearably soft. Eyes sparkling, lips curved into a wide smile that he doesn't even try to hide. He looks happy, excited and almost giddy.

"Good morning, hyung," he says warmly, voice still low from the quiet morning air.

Joshua blinks once, twice, adjusting to the light. His sleepy gaze focuses on Seokmin's face, and immediately his lips curve into a faint, affectionate smile. His voice comes out soft and raspy. "Morning..."

"It's Valentine's Day," Seokmin announces like it's the best news in the world.

Before Joshua can even react, Seokmin leans down and presses a long, lingering kiss against his cheek. The sound is soft but deliberate. Then he shifts slightly and presses his lips to Joshua's, gentle at first—just a warm press—before deepening it slightly, enough to make Joshua fully aware that he is very much awake now.

When Seokmin pulls back, he beams proudly and shifts to sit beside Joshua on the bed, legs folded underneath him. He doesn't stop smiling.

"I planned everything," he begins immediately, words spilling out with excitement. "We're going out later. I made reservations. There's this place I really wanted to take you to, and after that we can walk around, and maybe there's this little activity thing we can do together—oh, and—"

Joshua pushes himself up slightly onto his elbow, watching him. He doesn't interrupt. He doesn't even speak. He just stares.

Seokmin's hands move animatedly as he talks, eyes shining with anticipation. His cheeks are slightly flushed from excitement, lips moving quickly as he explains every tiny detail of the day he's planned. The sunlight catches in his eyes, making them look even brighter.

Joshua's expression softens more and more with each passing second. His gaze turns warm, almost overwhelmed.

"...so you have to get up soon," Seokmin finishes, finally glancing at him expectantly. "We can't waste time."

Joshua says nothing. Instead, he slowly opens his arms. "Come back here," he says softly.

Seokmin pauses mid-sentence. His smile falters into something gentler. His eyes soften. Without another word, he leans forward and settles between Joshua's arms again, hovering above him with his knees on either side of Joshua's waist. Their bodies fit naturally, comfortably.

Their foreheads press together. Seokmin smiles so close that Joshua can feel it. He begins nuzzling his cheek against Joshua's cheek, brushing their noses together lightly. "Wake upppp," he whines playfully, dragging out the last syllable as he rubs their cheeks together again and again.

Joshua lets out a quiet laugh beneath him, eyes crinkling. One hand slides up to the back of Seokmin's head, fingers slipping into his soft hair. He gently smooths it down, thumb brushing near his ear.

"I'm up," Joshua murmurs, voice warm. "I'm awake."

Seokmin lifts his head slightly, still hovering close. His lips curve into a proud grin. "I made breakfast too," he says, like he's revealing something grand.

Joshua's expression melts. His eyes soften deeply, and he lifts his hand to cup Seokmin's cheek, thumb brushing lightly over his skin. "Thank you," he whispers sincerely.

Seokmin's smile turns tender. He turns his face just enough to press a small, affectionate kiss to Joshua's palm that's still resting against him. "Anything for you," he replies quietly.

Joshua inhales softly, then pulls him closer again until their foreheads meet once more. Their noses brush. "Happy Valentine's Day," he whispers.

Seokmin's eyes flutter slightly before he smiles. "Happy Valentine's Day," he whispers back.

They share a soft kiss—short, slow, and full of warmth. It isn't rushed. It isn't teasing. It's simply affectionate and certain. When they part, Joshua looks at him with a tiny spark of mischief in his eyes. "Pick me up."

Seokmin blinks, then laughs brightly, head tilting back slightly. "Alright, highness," he teases.

He slides his hands under Joshua's thighs and shifts his weight, carefully sitting up first so Joshua naturally settles onto his lap. He pauses there, looking at Joshua with open adoration. Then he leans in and begins showering him with more kisses. Quick ones along his cheeks, jaw, and lips.

Joshua laughs softly, eyes closing briefly as he smiles, arms tightening around Seokmin's neck.

Seokmin finally stands, holding Joshua securely, hands firm beneath his thighs. Joshua instinctively wraps his legs around Seokmin's waist and his arms around his shoulders.

They wobble slightly as Seokmin adjusts his balance, both of them giggling quietly. As he walks toward the bathroom, Seokmin continues pressing random kisses wherever he can reach—Joshua's cheek, his jaw, the corner of his mouth. Joshua's laughter echoes softly in the room, warm and unguarded.

The morning feels bright and full.

And as they disappear down the hallway, wrapped up in laughter and kisses, it's clear that Joshua may have once been terrible at flirting.

But somehow, beautifully, he had won exactly what he wanted.