×Jay's pov×

The first-class cabin of the plane was a cocoon of luxury, a stark contrast to the bustling airport Jay had left behind.

He settled into his plush seat, the soft leather molding to his form as he leaned back, a sigh escaping his lips.

His heart thrummed with an anxious excitement, a familiar flutter that only arose when the thought of Jungwon filled his mind.

He was finally coming home, and the prospect of seeing Jungwon, along with his other friends, was exhilarating.

The hum of the engines lulled him into a state of calm, a welcome respite from the whirlwind of emotions he'd been experiencing since his departure.

The cabin lights dimmed, creating a soft, warm glow that bathed the interior in a comforting ambiance.

Jay watched as the world outside transformed into a mesmerizing tapestry of clouds and darkness, the twinkling lights of distant cities like scattered jewels against the velvety night sky.

Hours melted away like ice cubes in a warm drink. Meals were served, films were watched, and the rhythmic rocking of the plane lulled Jay into a series of short naps, punctuated by vivid dreams of his friends, especially Jungwon.

He could almost feel Jungwon's warm hand in his, hear his soft laughter, see his bright eyes filled with a genuine and infectious joy. He wished he could fast-forward time, to be with him again, to feel his reassuring presence.

A gentle announcement echoed through the cabin, informing passengers that they were beginning their descent.

Jay's heart leaped with anticipation, his breath quickening with the anticipation of being back in the arms of familiarity.

The plane touched down with a soft thud, and the engines sputtered to a halt. The cabin doors hissed open, revealing the cool night air and the vibrant glow of the airport terminal.

It was eleven o'clock, and he was in Seoul. He was finally home. As he stepped off the plane, a wave of relief washed over him. He scanned the crowd, his eyes searching for familiar faces.

And there they were, amidst the throng of people - Jake and Jungwon, their faces lit with smiles as bright as the airport lights.

Before Jay could even take a step, Jungwon was sprinting toward him, a wide grin plastered on his face. Jay's eyes widened in surprise as Jungwon's momentum carried him forward.

He tripped, his bags scattering across the floor, but Jungwon, fueled by a surge of unrestrained affection, scooped him up into a tight embrace.

Jay's heart swelled with love as Jungwon wrapped his arms around his neck and his legs around his waist.

He chuckled, a soft, contented sound, as he looked at Jake, who was watching them with a sly smirk on his face. Jay playfully rolled his eyes, his heart overflowing with affection for both of his friends.

Jungwon finally released him, his cheeks flushed with a beautiful shade of pink. But before Jay could even gasp for air, Jake was there, engulfing him in a bear hug.

Jay returned the embrace, feeling a rush of warmth and gratitude for the friendship that surrounded him.

Once the enthusiastic greetings were done, they made their way to Jake's car, loading the suitcases into the trunk.

As they drove through the night, the familiar streets and buildings blurring into a comforting backdrop, Jake and Jungwon peppered him with questions about his trip, their voices filled with warmth and genuine eagerness to hear every detail.

"We missed you so much, hyung! Even though it was only a week, it felt like forever! We can't imagine how much Sunghoon hyung must be missing you."

Jake echoed Jungwon's sentiments, their excitement about Sunghoon's birthday palpable.

"We've got everything ready for Sunghoon's birthday. We can't wait for him to see you."

Soon, they pulled up in front of Jay and Sunghoon's house, a majestic structure that stood as a testament to their shared dreams and ambitions.

As they got out of the car, the sight of Sunoo and Ni-ki standing at the doorstep, their faces illuminated by a soft, welcoming light, brought a smile to Jay's face.

They both hugged him tight, relishing in the feeling of being reunited with their friend.

Jay unlocked the door, stepping inside and inhaling deeply. The familiar scent of home, the sight of his favorite couch, and the comfortable silence that enveloped the house made his heart swell with a sense of peace and contentment.

He quickly placed his bags in his room and returned to the living room, the couch enveloping him in a comforting embrace.

They all started sharing stories and laughter, reminiscing over Jay's trip, until the clock struck midnight, December eighth.

It was Sunghoon's birthday. The air crackled with a silent understanding, a shared excitement that pulsed beneath the surface.

Simultaneously, they all texted Sunghoon, showering him with well wishes and happy birthday messages, pretending that nothing was planned, no surprise was in store.

A few minutes later, Sunghoon's call came through, and Jay, with a practiced casual tone, picked up the phone.

"Hey, Sunghoon."

Jay greeted, his voice laced with a hint of a playful lilt, his American accent thicker than usual, as if he had just woken up.

"Happy birthday! How are you doing?"

"Hey, Jay! Thanks. I'm doing great."

Sunghoon's voice was bright, filled with a warmth that Jay found incredibly endearing.

"I'm still a bit tired from practice, but it's my birthday, so I can't complain!"

Jay chuckled, picturing the energetic ice skater, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

"That's great to hear! You boys working hard over there?"

He continued, pretending to be oblivious to Sunghoon's current location. He carefully avoided giving away any clues that he was currently in Seoul.

"Yeah, practice was intense. Me and Heeseung went to his place after. We're planning on staying there for a little while now."

Sunghoon informed him. The thought of Sunghoon being anywhere but home on his birthday filled Jay with a sense of satisfaction.

"How are things there?"

"Things are pretty chill here. Just the usual, you know? Mostly enjoying the weather."

Jay replied, choosing his words carefully as he glanced at the excited faces of the other boys from the corner of his eyes.

"You take care, Hoon. Enjoy your day as much as possible. And hey, it's your special day, don't go home too soon, okay? Spend it anywhere but here. I mean, there."

He added, a mischievous grin creeping onto his face. Sunghoon chuckled, his cheerful voice filled with the thrill of an unplanned free day.

"Yeah, I don't think I'll be going home anytime soon. Heeseung hyung agreed with me when I told him that. He said he won't let me go home either."

Jay felt a surge of warmth at Sunghoon's words, a silent assurance that his plan was going smoothly.

"Awesome. Alright, then, take care of yourself, buddy. I love you."

He hung up the phone, his heart filled with a thrilling blend of nerves and exhilaration.

Jay glanced at the other four boys, who were buzzing with anticipation, their faces expectant.

"You guys can go to sleep if you want, it's still pretty early."

He offered, hoping they would accept the suggestion. He didn't want them to get tired or feel overworked.

"Are you kidding? We're ready to start decorating."

Jake exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. Sunoo and Ni-ki echoed Jake's sentiment, while Jay noticed a faint smile blooming on the corner of Jungwon's lips, a sign that the younger boy was as excited as the rest of them.

"Alright, alright. Let's get to it then."

Jay chuckled, letting a hint of his excitement show. And so they started, a flurry of activity filling the massive house.

They draped colorful banners, hung shimmering balloons, and placed glittering fairy lights everywhere.

The house, as vast as it was, was soon filled with a symphony of colors, laughter, and the infectious energy of their preparations.

But even with their best efforts, an hour later, they hadn't even scratched the surface of the decorating. The house was colossal, and they were a small group.

"Let's take a break."

Jay suggested, his voice laced with exhaustion. They all sank into the comfortable cushions of the living room, their limbs weary but their spirits high.

Jay felt a subtle shift in Jungwon's posture. The younger boy leaned closer to him, seeking comfort as he rested his head on Jay's chest. Jay's heart fluttered, butterflies erupting in his abdomen at the unexpected intimacy.

Jungwon's soft rhythmic breathing lulled Jay into a state of tranquility, the gentle rise and fall of his chest a soothing melody.

The warmth of Jungwon's body nestled against his own was a comforting sensation, and a sweet smile bloomed on Jay's face.

They rested for nearly half an hour when Jake, with a silent gesture of caution, nudged Jungwon softly.

"Yah, Jake, let him sleep."

"Nuh uh."

Jungwon's eyes fluttered open, confusion momentarily clouding his features, as he looked at Jake with a hint of annoyance at being woken up.

"Come on, Jungwonie. We still need to finish decorating,"

Jake insisted, his voice soft yet firm. Jay tried to intervene, but it was too late. Jake's words were like a catalyst that spurred Jungwon to action, causing him to stretch and sit up, ready to continue the preparations.

Jay's heart sank a little, though, knowing that even the slightest bit of sleep was precious for Jungwon.

Despite Jay's reluctance, their decorating spree resumed, the night buzzing with youthful energy as they prepared for Sunghoon's grand surprise.

Jay, however, couldn't shake off the lingering warmth of Jungwon's slumber in his arms, a memory that promised a sweeter, untold story for the days to come.

Jay walked into his room, a warm, inviting space filled with the scent of vanilla and freshly laundered clothes.

Jungwon, still half-asleep, followed him, his eyes still closed. As Jay turned to place a few decorative items on the floor, Jungwon appeared, stretching and yawning again, a cute, endearing little scene that made Jay's breath catch in his throat.

Jungwon walked towards Jay, his eyes still heavy with sleep, and with a soft, gentle movement, wrapped his arms around Jay's waist in a hug.

Jay, his heart soaring, dropped the decorations and hugged Jungwon back, burying his face in the soft scent of Jungwon's hair.

Jungwon closed his eyes, almost falling asleep in Jay's arms, his breathing slow and even.

Jay felt a warmth spread through his chest, a comforting heaviness that felt both familiar and exhilarating.

He carefully lifted Jungwon, carrying him to his bed, and gently placed him down. Jay leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Jungwon's forehead, whispering.

"Sleep well."

Jay quickly decorated the room, his movements fluid and efficient, fueled by a desire to make it as perfect as possible.

He finished just as quickly as he started, carefully placing the remaining decorations in their designated spots before slipping into bed beside Jungwon, his heart filled with a quiet joy.

He watched Jungwon sleep, the soft rise and fall of his chest the only movement in the room. Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Jake peeked into the room.

"What's taking you guys so long?"

He asked, his voice hushed. Jay, startled, quickly shushed him, motioning to go away.

"He's sleeping, Jake."

He whispered, pointing at Jungwon. Jake knelt beside the bed, his eyes filled with a gentle curiosity as he gazed at Jungwon's peaceful face.

A few moments later, Jungwon stirred, rubbing his eyes sleepily. Jake smiled softly.

"You can sleep more if you want, I'll go tell Sunoo and Ni-ki to stop and rest until morning. We can have more energy tomorrow."

Jungwon, still feeling drowsy, moved closer to Jay, burying his face in his chest. He closed his eyes and within seconds, was fast asleep again.

Jay felt a warmth bloom in his chest-a warmth that was a promise, a fragile hope, a quiet certainty that Jungwon felt safe and loved in his arms.