Work Text
It was another typical morning, and Hwanwong found himself trailing behind his older brother, Leedo, as they walked down the busy street. Leedo walked with that carefree swagger, completely oblivious to the stares they were getting. His smile was effortless, and he radiated a sense of confidence that made people stop and stare. Hwanwong, however, was struggling to keep up, his small steps failing to match Leedo’s long strides.“Hyung, you’re walking too fast!” Hwanwong complained, trying to catch up.Leedo glanced back, flashing him a teasing smile. "You should exercise more, Wong. Maybe then you can keep up with me."Hwanwong pouted, sticking his tongue out at Leedo, which only made Leedo laugh louder. Despite his playful teasing, Leedo always had this protective aura around him, like he was guarding Hwanwong from everything in the world.As they arrived at their favorite café, Hwanwong breathed a sigh of relief. The café was quiet, and they were about to meet a few of Hwanwong's friends. But of course, the moment they walked in, everyone turned to look at them. Hwanwong immediately felt his cheeks heat up and his stomach do flips.“Is that your brother, Hwanwong?” Keonhee, one of Hwanwong’s friends, asked with a mischievous grin, eyeing the big gap between their heights.Leedo smiled widely and nodded. "Yep, this little guy’s my world," he said, pulling Hwanwong closer to him with an arm around his shoulder. Hwanwong felt like he was about to melt from the embarrassment.“H-Hyung, stop! I’m not a little kid anymore!” Hwanwong grumbled, trying to wriggle free from Leedo’s tight grip.Leedo just laughed and gave his brother’s head a gentle ruffle. “You’ll always be my little brother, Wong.”“I’m seventeen, hyung!” Hwanwong protested, turning his head away to hide his flushed face.But no matter how much Hwanwong tried to escape, Leedo was always there, showering him with affection. Every time they went out, it was the same routine: Leedo would mess up his hair, kiss his cheek, and call him “my little guy.” It was cute, sure, but it was also so embarrassing, especially when they were in front of his friends.As they sat down at the table, Leedo leaned in close and whispered, “You know you’re the best part of my day, right?”Hwanwong rolled his eyes but couldn’t stop a smile from tugging at his lips. “I know, hyung. You tell me that every day.”Leedo grinned, clearly pleased with himself. "Good, because it’s true. You’re all I need in this world."Hwanwong blinked, his heart softening at the sincerity in Leedo's eyes. Despite how often Leedo teased him, Hwanwong knew one thing for sure—his older brother loved him more than anything in the world.Just then, Leedo suddenly leaned down, cupping Hwanwong's face in his hands, and planted a soft kiss on his cheek. "You’re my everything, Wong. Don’t forget that, okay?"Hwanwong froze for a second, his face turning an even brighter shade of red. “Hyung! Not in front of everyone!” he hissed, looking around frantically to see if anyone had seen.Leedo just laughed and pulled him into a warm hug, squeezing him tightly. "Who cares if anyone sees? You’re my brother, and I’ll love you no matter what.”“I know, I know,” Hwanwong muttered, giving in to the hug despite his embarrassment. It was hard to stay mad at Leedo, especially when he was so genuinely affectionate.Leedo smiled down at him, his eyes soft. "I’m never letting you go, Wong. You’re the only family I have left."Hwanwong smiled shyly, finally relaxing in his brother’s embrace. “Thanks, hyung. I feel the same way.”And even though Hwanwong sometimes wished Leedo wouldn’t be so public with his affection, he couldn’t deny it: in this big, scary world, having someone who cared about him so much made everything feel a little bit easier.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The sun was beginning to set as Hwanwong and Leedo walked home from the café. The streets were bathed in a warm golden light, and the air buzzed with the sound of laughter and chatter. But Hwanwong was unusually quiet, dragging his feet slightly behind Leedo.“Why the long face, Wong?” Leedo asked, glancing back at him. “You’ve been sulking since we left the café.”“I wasn’t sulking,” Hwanwong muttered, though his pout said otherwise.Leedo smirked, slowing his pace so they were walking side by side. “Ah, I see. You’re still embarrassed because I hugged you in front of everyone, huh?”Hwanwong shot him a glare. “Obviously! Do you have to be so… affectionate all the time? People were staring, hyung!”Leedo stopped in his tracks and placed a hand over his heart as if he’d been struck. “Affectionate? Wong, I’m just showing my baby brother how much I care about him. Is that so wrong?” He put on an exaggeratedly sad face, complete with a trembling lower lip.Hwanwong groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Hyung, stop it. That doesn’t work on me anymore.”Leedo’s expression grew even sadder, and he sighed dramatically. “It’s just… you’re all I have, Wong. After Mom and Dad… I promised I’d do everything to make you feel loved. If I’m being too much, I guess I can—”“Okay, okay! I get it!” Hwanwong interrupted, throwing his hands up in surrender. “You don’t have to bring up the sad stuff, hyung. Just… tone it down a little. Please.”Leedo grinned, his sadness vanishing in an instant. “No promises!” Before Hwanwong could protest, Leedo slung an arm around his shoulder and ruffled his hair affectionately.“Hyung! My hair!” Hwanwong whined, trying to swat his brother’s hand away. “I just fixed it!”Leedo only laughed, clearly enjoying himself. “You’re so cute when you’re annoyed, you know that?”Hwanwong grumbled under his breath, but he couldn’t stop the small smile tugging at his lips. No matter how much his brother embarrassed him, he couldn’t stay mad for long. Leedo had a way of making everything feel a little lighter, even when Hwanwong wanted to crawl into a hole and hide.As they reached their apartment, Leedo suddenly stopped and turned to Hwanwong with a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Hey, Wong.”“What now?” Hwanwong asked warily, narrowing his eyes.“Do you remember what day it is?”Hwanwong blinked, tilting his head. “Uh… Thursday?”Leedo gasped, looking genuinely offended. “It’s Big Brother Appreciation Day!”Hwanwong stared at him, deadpan. “That’s not a real thing.”“It is if I say it is,” Leedo declared proudly. “And as your amazing, loving hyung, I demand a hug from you. Right now.”“No way,” Hwanwong said flatly, crossing his arms.Leedo pouted. “Not even one little hug? For your one and only hyung? Your protector? Your biggest fan?”Hwanwong sighed, knowing he wouldn’t win this battle. “Fine. One hug. But make it quick.”Before Hwanwong could blink, Leedo had wrapped him in a bear hug, lifting him slightly off the ground. “That’s my boy!”“Hyung! Put me down!” Hwanwong yelped, squirming in his brother’s arms.Leedo finally set him down, ruffling his hair one last time for good measure. “You’re the best, Wong.”Hwanwong huffed, fixing his hair again. “You’re impossible.”“And you love me for it,” Leedo said with a wink, slinging an arm around Hwanwong’s shoulder as they walked into their apartment.Despite his protests, Hwanwong couldn’t help but smile. As much as Leedo annoyed him, he wouldn’t trade his brother for anything in the world.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Morning sunlight poured into the small apartment, illuminating the cluttered living room. Hwanwong groaned as he buried his face deeper into his pillow, trying to block out the light. He had stayed up late studying for a test, and now all he wanted was just a few more minutes of sleep.Unfortunately, Leedo had other plans.“Rise and shine, little bro!” Leedo’s cheerful voice rang out as he barged into the room. “You don’t want to waste the day sleeping, do you?”“Go away, hyung…” Hwanwong mumbled, pulling his blanket over his head.Leedo’s gaze softened as he took in the sight of his younger brother. Hwanwong was curled up in bed, wearing pastel blue pajamas adorned with tiny bunny prints. His hair was slightly tousled from sleep, framing his small face, and his pouty lips poked out from under the blanket.Leedo sighed dramatically. How is he so cute without even trying?“You’re too precious to leave alone,” Leedo said aloud, yanking the blanket off Hwanwong with a grin. “Come on, little peanut. Time to get up.”“Hyung! Put me back!” Hwanwong protested, his voice muffled as he grabbed at the air.Leedo chuckled. “Nope. If I leave you here, you’ll stay in bed all day.” He reached down and gently pinched Hwanwong’s cheek. “And besides, you’re too cute to ignore.”“Stop calling me cute!” Hwanwong whined, sitting up with a glare. “I’m seventeen, not a baby.”Leedo tilted his head, pretending to think. “Hmm… Let’s see. Your pajamas have bunnies, you wear those ridiculously adorable striped socks, and you have the cutest pout I’ve ever seen. Not to mention your hair, your cheeks, your eyes—oh, and your lips!”“Hyung!” Hwanwong’s face turned bright red as he grabbed a pillow and threw it at Leedo. “Stop it!”Leedo caught the pillow with ease, laughing. “See? Even when you’re mad, you’re cute. What am I supposed to do?”“You’re supposed to treat me like an adult!” Hwanwong shot back, crossing his arms.Leedo’s smile softened, and he sat on the edge of the bed. “Wong, you don’t get it, do you? I’m not trying to baby you to annoy you. It’s just…” He paused, his gaze turning serious. “You’re all I have left.”Hwanwong’s expression faltered, the fight draining out of him.“When Mom and Dad passed away, I promised them I’d take care of you,” Leedo continued. “And every time I look at you, I see the same little boy who used to follow me around, asking me a million questions about the world. I know you’re seventeen now, but to me, you’ll always be that kid. The one who wears cute pajamas and gets embarrassed when I hug him. You’re my family, Wong. My everything.”Hwanwong looked down, his cheeks still pink. “Hyung… I get it. But you don’t have to say it like that.”Leedo reached over and gently ruffled his hair. “I’m just being honest. And if it embarrasses you, well… that’s just a bonus.”“Hyung!”Leedo laughed as he stood up, pulling Hwanwong out of bed. “Come on, my little tiger. Breakfast is waiting.”🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️
The smell of freshly made pancakes wafted through the air as Hwanwong trudged into the kitchen, still half-asleep. He plopped down at the small dining table, his hair a mess and his striped socks slouching around his ankles.Leedo turned from the stove, spatula in hand, and grinned at the sight. “You look like a sleepy baby tiger right now but everytime you annoyed you're just like red panda.”“Hyung, stop calling me that!” Hwanwong grumbled, rubbing his eyes.Leedo placed a plate of golden pancakes in front of him, complete with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of syrup. “I can’t help it. You’re small, you’re round—”“I’m not round!”“—and you’re impossible not to love.”Hwanwong groaned, but the sweet smell of breakfast was too tempting. He picked up his fork and took a bite, savoring the fluffy pancakes. “Fine, I’ll let it slide. But just this once.”Leedo chuckled and sat across from him, watching Hwanwong eat. “You know, I’ve been thinking. We should go out this weekend. Maybe check out that new dessert café downtown?”Hwanwong raised an eyebrow. “You just want an excuse to buy me something embarrassing again, don’t you?”Leedo gasped, feigning innocence. “Me? Embarrass you? I would never.”“Right. Like when you bought me that strawberry milkshake with ‘I love my baby brother’ written on the cup?”“That was adorable!” Leedo protested. “And everyone in the café thought so too.”“Hyung…” Hwanwong groaned, covering his face with his hands. “You’re unbelievable.”Leedo leaned back in his chair, a satisfied smile on his face. “What can I say? It’s my job to keep you humble.”The conversation continued, light and easy, as they finished breakfast. Leedo couldn’t help but feel a pang of gratitude for these simple moments. After everything they’d been through, having these mornings with Hwanwong felt like a gift he’d never take for granted.
---Later that day, the two brothers found themselves at the local park. Hwanwong had insisted on taking a walk to “burn off all the pancakes,” though Leedo suspected he just wanted some fresh air.As they strolled along the path, Leedo noticed Hwanwong’s socks peeking out from under his sneakers—pink with tiny polka dots. He couldn’t help but laugh.“What’s so funny?” Hwanwong asked, narrowing his eyes.“Nothing, nothing,” Leedo said, trying to stifle his chuckles. “It’s just… even your socks are cute. Did you pick those out on purpose?”“They were on sale!” Hwanwong huffed, crossing his arms.Leedo grinned and ruffled his hair. “Sure they were, little tiger.”“Hyung, if you call me that one more time, I’m walking home.”“You wouldn’t survive five minutes without me,” Leedo teased. “Who else would protect you from the big, scary world?”Hwanwong rolled his eyes but couldn’t hide the small smile tugging at his lips. As much as he hated to admit it, he didn’t mind having Leedo around. Most of the time, anyway.
---That evening, as they settled into the couch for a movie night, Hwanwong found himself dozing off halfway through the film. Leedo noticed his head starting to droop and carefully adjusted him so he was leaning against his shoulder.He glanced down at his sleeping brother, a soft smile on his face. “You’ll always be my little baby, Wong,” he whispered. “No matter how grown-up you think you are.”And as the night grew quieter, Leedo made a silent vow to cherish every moment with Hwanwong, no matter how many times his little brother protested.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The following week, a school trip was announced, and Hwanwong couldn’t have been more thrilled. It was a rare chance for him to hang out with his classmates and, most importantly, escape Leedo’s overly protective shadow for a day.At least, that’s what he thought.“Hyung, I’m going on a school trip tomorrow,” Hwanwong said during dinner.Leedo paused mid-bite, his chopsticks hovering in the air. “A school trip? Where to?”“Just the botanical garden. It’s no big deal,” Hwanwong replied casually, hoping to avoid a fuss.Leedo, however, immediately narrowed his eyes. “No big deal? You’re going to a place with uneven paths, ponds, and who knows how many bugs. What if you trip? Or get lost? Or—”“Hyung!” Hwanwong cut him off, groaning. “I’ll be fine. I’m seventeen, remember?”Leedo leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. “Seventeen or not, you’re still my responsibility.”“I’ll have teachers and friends with me. I’ll be okay!”Leedo didn’t look convinced. Instead, his expression shifted to one of his signature guilt-inducing looks. “Wong… you know I worry because I care, right? After losing Mom and Dad…”Here it was. The tragic backstory card.“Hyung, don’t,” Hwanwong muttered, his resolve already cracking.“You’re all I have, Wong,” Leedo said, his voice soft but firm. “If anything happened to you, I don’t know what I’d do.”Hwanwong sighed, defeated. “Fine. But please don’t make a big deal out of it.”Leedo smiled triumphantly. “Of course not, little peanut. I’ll just—”“And don’t call me that!” Hwanwong added, his cheeks turning pink.
🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰The next day, Hwanwong boarded the school bus, excited to finally enjoy some time with his friends. He waved at Leedo as the bus pulled away, relieved that his brother had stayed behind.Or so he thought.By the time the students reached the botanical garden, Hwanwong felt a strange sense of being watched. He shook it off, chalking it up to his imagination.But as the group moved from one exhibit to another, he spotted a familiar figure lurking behind a tree.“Is that… Hyung?!” Hwanwong whispered to himself, his eyes widening.Sure enough, Leedo was there, wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses in an attempt to disguise himself. He was crouched down, peeking around the tree with comical stealth.Hwanwong’s jaw dropped. “I can’t believe this…”
---Leedo, oblivious to his terrible disguise, kept a close eye on his brother. He wasn’t spying, exactly—just monitoring from afar.When Hwanwong tripped over a root, Leedo instinctively stepped forward but stopped himself when a friend helped him up.“That’s right, Wong,” Leedo muttered under his breath. “Let them handle the little stuff. But if anything serious happens, I’m here.”Despite his attempts to stay hidden, Hwanwong eventually cornered him during lunch.“Hyung,” Hwanwong hissed, dragging him behind a tree. “What are you doing here?!”Leedo smiled sheepishly. “Just making sure you’re safe.”“I told you I’d be fine!” Hwanwong whisper-shouted, glaring at him.“I know, I know,” Leedo said, holding up his hands. “But what if something happened? I’d never forgive myself.”Hwanwong sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Hyung, you can’t keep doing this. People are going to think I have a stalker!”“Better a stalker than an injured little peanut,” Leedo quipped, ruffling Hwanwong’s hair.“Stop calling me that!”
---By the end of the trip, Hwanwong was exhausted—not from the activities, but from trying to keep Leedo hidden from his classmates. Despite the embarrassment, he couldn’t deny the warmth he felt knowing how much his brother cared.As they walked home together, Leedo slung an arm around Hwanwong’s shoulders.“You’re mad, aren’t you?” Leedo asked, grinning.“Furious,” Hwanwong replied, though his tone lacked bite.Leedo laughed. “You’ll thank me someday.”“Don’t count on it,” Hwanwong muttered, but a small smile played on his lips.No matter how overbearing Leedo could be, Hwanwong knew his brother’s love came from a good place. And deep down, he wouldn’t trade it for anything.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The weekend came, and as usual, Leedo was up early, bustling around the apartment. Hwanwong, however, was still cocooned in his blanket, blissfully unaware of the world outside his dreams.Leedo peeked into Hwanwong’s room, chuckling at the sight of his little brother sprawled out like a starfish, his fluffy blanket tangled around his legs. His striped pajamas made him look even smaller, like an actual peanut.“Wong-ah,” Leedo called softly, walking over to shake his shoulder gently. “Wake up. We’ve got plans today.”“Mmm, five more minutes,” Hwanwong mumbled, burrowing deeper into his blanket.Leedo smirked. “Five more minutes? Or… a tickle attack?”Hwanwong’s eyes snapped open, panic flashing across his face. “Don’t you dare—”But it was too late. Leedo’s fingers were already dancing across his sides, making Hwanwong burst into uncontrollable laughter.“Hyung! Stop! I’m awake! I’m awake!” he cried between giggles, squirming to escape.Leedo finally relented, grinning as Hwanwong sat up, his hair sticking out in every direction. “Good morning, sleepy peanut.”“Good morning, annoying hyung,” Hwanwong shot back, though the corners of his mouth twitched upward.
---After breakfast, Leedo announced their destination: a cat café downtown.“You’re obsessed with cats,” Hwanwong groaned as they walked through the bustling streets.“Cats are adorable, just like you,” Leedo teased, nudging him playfully.“Hyung…”“Fine, fine. But admit it, you’re going to have fun.”Hwanwong rolled his eyes but didn’t argue. Secretly, he was excited.
🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️At the café, they were greeted by a staff member who introduced them to the feline residents. Leedo immediately gravitated toward a fluffy white kitten, cradling it in his arms like a baby.“Look, Wong! Isn’t this one cute?”Hwanwong nodded, crouching down to pet a tabby that had wandered over. The cat purred contentedly, rubbing its head against his hand.Leedo watched with a soft smile. “See? Even the cats think you’re adorable.”“Hyung, please stop embarrassing me in front of the cats,” Hwanwong muttered, though he couldn’t hide the slight blush on his cheeks.
---As they sipped on their lattes and played with the cats, Leedo’s expression turned thoughtful.“You know, Wong,” he began, his tone unusually serious, “I can’t stop babying you because… everything about you is just so precious.”Hwanwong glanced up from his drink, surprised. “What do you mean?”Leedo leaned back in his chair, his gaze softening. “Your eyes light up when you’re excited. Your laugh is the best sound in the world. Even the way you sulk is cute. And don’t get me started on your ridiculous collection of striped socks and pajamas. How am I supposed to not baby you when you’re like this?”Hwanwong’s face turned bright red. “Hyung, you’re being so dramatic!”“I’m not,” Leedo insisted, a playful grin breaking through. “I mean it. You’re my little peanut, Wong. The cutest, most stubborn peanut in the world.”Hwanwong groaned, covering his face with his hands. “Why do you have to say these things in public?”“Because it’s true.”Despite his protests, Hwanwong couldn’t help but smile behind his hands. As much as Leedo’s overprotectiveness could be overwhelming, moments like this reminded him of how deeply his brother cared.
🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰❤️As they left the café, Leedo threw an arm around Hwanwong’s shoulders, pulling him close.“Hyung, people are staring,” Hwanwong complained, squirming.“Let them stare,” Leedo replied breezily. “They’re just jealous they don’t have a cute little peanut like you.”“Hyung!”Leedo laughed, tightening his hold. “Come on, let’s grab some ice cream. My treat.”Hwanwong sighed but didn’t resist, leaning into his brother’s side as they walked. No matter how much Leedo teased him, he knew one thing for sure: he was loved.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
One sunny afternoon, Leedo and Hwanwong decided to visit the local park. It was the perfect day to relax—clear skies, a gentle breeze, and plenty of space to stretch out on the grass.Leedo packed a small picnic, insisting that Hwanwong needed to “eat properly” while soaking up some fresh air. Hwanwong, as usual, groaned about being treated like a child but secretly appreciated the effort.“Hyung, you’re overpacking again,” Hwanwong said as Leedo stuffed extra snacks into the basket.“It’s not overpacking. It’s being prepared,” Leedo replied, slinging the basket over his shoulder. “What if you get hungry, Wong?”“I’ll be fine. I’m not five,” Hwanwong muttered, though his lips twitched into a small smile.
---At the park, Leedo spread out a picnic blanket under a large tree, unpacking sandwiches, fruit, and drinks. Hwanwong plopped down beside him, eyeing the spread with mild amusement.“You really brought everything, huh?”“Of course. I know my peanut,” Leedo said, ruffling Hwanwong’s hair.Hwanwong ducked away, swatting at his brother’s hand. “Hyung, stop!”“Never,” Leedo replied with a grin, handing Hwanwong a juice box.
---As they ate, a group of kids playing tag nearby accidentally kicked their ball toward the blanket. Hwanwong caught it mid-air and waved at the kids to come over.“Here you go,” he said, tossing the ball back.One of the kids tilted his head, staring at Hwanwong with wide eyes. “Wow, you’re so pretty! Are you a prince?”Hwanwong’s cheeks turned pink as he stammered, “Uh, n-no, I’m just—”Leedo burst out laughing, draping an arm around his brother. “He’s my little peanut prince,” he said proudly.“Hyung!” Hwanwong hissed, mortified.The kids giggled before running off with their ball, leaving Hwanwong to bury his face in his hands.“Why do you have to embarrass me everywhere we go?” he groaned.“Because it’s fun,” Leedo teased, handing him a slice of watermelon. “Here, eat. It’ll help you cool down.”Hwanwong glared at him but took the watermelon anyway, muttering under his breath about annoying older brothers.
---After their meal, Leedo suggested flying a kite he’d brought along.“Seriously? A kite?” Hwanwong asked, raising an eyebrow.“What? It’s fun!” Leedo said, holding up the colorful kite shaped like a bear.Hwanwong sighed but followed his brother to an open field. As Leedo ran to get the kite airborne, Hwanwong found himself laughing despite himself.“You look ridiculous, hyung!” he called out, watching Leedo chase after the kite string.Leedo grinned over his shoulder. “Ridiculously cool, you mean.”“Nope, just ridiculous,” Hwanwong shot back, his laughter bubbling up.For a moment, everything felt light and carefree, the weight of their past replaced by the simplicity of the present.
---As the sun began to set, the brothers packed up their picnic and headed home. Walking side by side, Leedo reached over to ruffle Hwanwong’s hair again.“Hyung, if you touch my hair one more time, I’m moving out,” Hwanwong warned, though there was no real heat in his tone.“Where would you go?” Leedo teased. “You can’t live without me.”Hwanwong sighed dramatically. “I’d finally have some peace and quiet, that’s for sure.”Leedo chuckled, slinging an arm around his brother’s shoulders. “Admit it—you’d miss me.”“Keep dreaming, hyung,” Hwanwong replied, but the small smile on his face gave him away.Leedo tightened his hold, pulling Hwanwong closer. “Well, I’m not going anywhere. You’re stuck with me forever, peanut.”Hwanwong groaned, but deep down, he couldn’t imagine life any other way.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Hwanwong always thought he was good at keeping things to himself. His emotions, his thoughts, his little embarrassments—all tucked away neatly where no one could pry. But there was one flaw in his strategy: Leedo.Leedo had an uncanny ability to read him like an open book, which was why Hwanwong found himself cornered one afternoon in their living room.“What’s on your mind, peanut?” Leedo asked casually as he sat on the couch, patting his lap. Without thinking, Hwanwong climbed onto it—an old habit he couldn’t seem to break.“Nothing,” Hwanwong mumbled, leaning back against Leedo’s chest while staring at the TV.Leedo wrapped his arms loosely around his brother, resting his chin on Hwanwong’s shoulder. He hummed as his fingers naturally found their way to Hwanwong’s hair, gently ruffling it.“Hmm, nothing, huh?” Leedo said, a teasing lilt in his voice. “Your ‘nothing’ face looks a lot like your ‘I’m hiding something’ face.”“Hyung, I’m serious. It’s nothing,” Hwanwong replied, trying to sound firm, but his voice wavered.Leedo’s hand stilled for a moment before he resumed stroking Hwanwong’s soft hair. “You know you can’t lie to me, peanut. I can see right through you.”Hwanwong groaned softly, sinking further into Leedo’s embrace. He knew it was pointless to resist, but admitting things always felt so… embarrassing.“Okay, fine,” Hwanwong sighed. “It’s about this weekend.”Leedo perked up. “Go on.”“My friends invited me to go to the arcade and watch a movie. But…” Hwanwong hesitated. “I was worried you’d, you know, follow me.”Leedo blinked, then let out a hearty laugh that shook both of them.“Why would you think that?”“Because you’re you, hyung,” Hwanwong grumbled, turning to glare at him. “You’re always hovering, and it’s embarrassing!”Leedo gave a mock-offended gasp, clutching his chest dramatically. “I hover because I care!”“Yeah, yeah,” Hwanwong muttered, crossing his arms. “You care too much.”Leedo chuckled, leaning closer so their cheeks almost touched. “Can you blame me? Look at you,” he said softly, his voice filled with warmth. “How can I not baby you, peanut? You’re just…”“Don’t say it,” Hwanwong warned.“…so cute,” Leedo finished anyway, nuzzling his brother’s hair.“Hyung!” Hwanwong tried to squirm away, but Leedo held him firmly.“Your cute pajamas, your cute socks, your cute hair, and those big, sparkly eyes—”“Stop it!”“—those pouty lips, that tiny little nose…”“Hyung, I swear I’ll—”“…and don’t even get me started on how you fit so perfectly in my lap,” Leedo continued, grinning as Hwanwong’s cheeks flushed a deep red.“Hyung, I’m seventeen! I’m not a kid anymore!”Leedo gave a soft smile, his hand still gently running through Hwanwong’s hair. “You’ll always be my peanut. Seventeen or seventy, you’re stuck with me.”Hwanwong sighed, leaning back against him. He could never really stay mad, not when Leedo looked at him like that. “You’re impossible.”“And you love it,” Leedo teased, tightening his arms around him in a playful squeeze.Hwanwong rolled his eyes but didn’t argue.
---Later, when Hwanwong went to the arcade, Leedo kept his promise to stay out of the way. But when Hwanwong sent him a selfie with the giant plush bear he’d won, Leedo couldn’t resist texting back.Good job, peanut. See? You’re the cutest winner.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
When Hwanwong returned home that evening, the first thing he saw was Leedo waiting for him on the couch with a bowl of popcorn and their favorite blanket draped over his lap.“Welcome back, peanut!” Leedo called out, his face lighting up the moment Hwanwong stepped through the door. “Did you have fun?”“It was fine,” Hwanwong mumbled, kicking off his shoes. He made his way to the couch, clutching the giant plush bear he had won. “I beat Jinho at the claw machine, and he wouldn’t stop whining about it.”Leedo chuckled, patting his lap. “Come here and tell me all about it.”Hwanwong sighed, but as usual, he gave in, plopping himself onto Leedo’s lap with the bear squeezed between them. “Hyung, why do you always make me sit here? I’m not a toddler.”“Because this is a peanut’s place,” Leedo said with a grin, wrapping the blanket around them. His hand found its way to Hwanwong’s hair, stroking it gently as he added, “And also because you fit perfectly here. It’s like you were made for it.”Hwanwong groaned. “You’re so weird.”“And you’re so cute,” Leedo replied smoothly.“Stop calling me that!”“Never.”Hwanwong’s pout deepened, but the way his head tilted slightly into Leedo’s touch gave away how much he secretly enjoyed it.“So,” Leedo began, trying to hold back a laugh, “tell me how you managed to beat Jinho. Did you use your cute puppy eyes to distract him?”“No!” Hwanwong exclaimed, glaring up at him. “I don’t use puppy eyes!”“Uh-huh,” Leedo teased, a smirk tugging at his lips. “Sure you don’t.”“I don’t!” Hwanwong insisted, his cheeks flushing.Leedo leaned down until their faces were close. “It’s okay, peanut. Even if you did, I’d be proud. Your cuteness is a powerful weapon.”Hwanwong groaned again, burying his face in the plush bear to hide his embarrassment. “I can’t deal with you, hyung.”Leedo laughed, his hand continuing its soothing motions in Hwanwong’s hair. “You don’t have to deal with me. You just have to let me love you.”“Why are you like this?” Hwanwong mumbled into the bear.Leedo’s playful expression softened, and his voice turned gentle. “Because, peanut, you’re all I have.”Hwanwong froze, his heart squeezing at the quiet sincerity in those words.“You know, after we lost Mom and Dad, I promised myself that I’d protect you no matter what,” Leedo continued. “You were so little back then. So fragile. And even now, when I see you, I still remember that tiny boy who used to cry whenever I left the room.”“Hyung…” Hwanwong’s voice was barely a whisper.Leedo gave him a small smile, resting his forehead against Hwanwong’s. “So yeah, maybe I baby you too much. Maybe I embarrass you sometimes. But I can’t help it. You’re my peanut, my only family. And I love you more than anything.”For a moment, the room was quiet except for the soft sound of their breathing.Then Hwanwong lifted his head, his cheeks still pink but his eyes shining. “You’re such a sap, hyung.”Leedo laughed, pulling him into a tight hug. “And you’re stuck with me.”Hwanwong didn’t fight the hug this time. Instead, he melted into it, resting his head on Leedo’s shoulder. “Yeah, I know. And… I guess I don’t mind.”Leedo smiled, pressing a kiss to the top of Hwanwong’s head. “That’s my peanut.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It was another lazy Sunday morning, and as usual, Hwanwong woke up to the smell of pancakes wafting through the house. He stretched under the covers, yawning as the soft sunlight spilled through his curtains.After a few moments of blissful silence, his stomach growled, reminding him it was time to get up. Hwanwong padded to the kitchen, still in his favorite pajama set—a soft, peanut-printed ensemble that Leedo had given him last Christmas.Leedo was at the stove, flipping pancakes with practiced ease. He turned when he heard Hwanwong’s sleepy footsteps and immediately grinned.“Morning, peanut!”Hwanwong blinked blearily at him. “Morning, hyung. Smells good.”“Only the best for my favorite little brother,” Leedo replied, piling a stack of golden pancakes onto a plate.Hwanwong climbed onto a chair at the kitchen table, resting his chin in his hand as he watched Leedo bustle around. He noticed that the table was already set with syrup, butter, and even a jar of peanut butter.“Peanut butter again?” Hwanwong asked, raising an eyebrow.Leedo turned with a sly smile. “Of course. It’s a classic, just like you.”“Hyung,” Hwanwong groaned, burying his face in his hands.“What?” Leedo feigned innocence as he set the plate of pancakes in front of Hwanwong. “Peanuts are adorable, versatile, and everybody loves them. Just like my little peanut.”“Can you not?” Hwanwong muttered, though he couldn’t hide the small smile tugging at his lips.Leedo ruffled his hair on the way back to the stove. “Eat up, peanut. You’ve got a big day of being cute ahead of you.”
---After breakfast, Hwanwong was curled up on the couch with a book when Leedo plopped down beside him. Without warning, Leedo grabbed Hwanwong’s ankle, tugging up the pajama pant leg to reveal his socks—striped in pastel colors with little peanut cartoons on them.“Seriously?” Leedo laughed. “You’re wearing these again?”“They’re comfortable!” Hwanwong protested, pulling his leg away.“And they’re cute,” Leedo teased, his grin widening. “You really make this too easy for me, peanut.”Hwanwong scowled. “Hyung, if you don’t stop, I’m—”“What? Gonna pout at me? Give me those big, shiny eyes?” Leedo cooed, leaning closer. “Go ahead. I dare you.”Hwanwong tried to glare at him but ended up bursting into laughter instead. “You’re impossible!”“And you’re adorable,” Leedo shot back, poking Hwanwong’s cheek.Hwanwong swatted his hand away, still laughing. “Stop it, or I’ll tell everyone at school how you used to cry during sad commercials.”Leedo gasped, clutching his chest. “You wouldn’t dare!”“Oh, I would,” Hwanwong teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes.Leedo narrowed his eyes, then tackled Hwanwong onto the couch in a playful wrestling match. Amid the laughter and shouts, one thing was clear: their bond, no matter how much they teased each other, was unshakable.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Later that afternoon, Hwanwong sat on his bed, finally enjoying some quiet time. Or at least, he tried to. Every few minutes, there would be a knock, followed by Leedo sticking his head in to ask if he needed anything—water, snacks, a blanket.“Hyung,” Hwanwong finally said with an exaggerated sigh. “I’m not a baby. I don’t need anything. Just let me be for a while, okay?”Leedo frowned dramatically, leaning against the doorframe. “But what if my peanut gets bored or lonely? Or cold? Or hungry? Or—”“I’ll survive!” Hwanwong interrupted, throwing a pillow at him.Leedo caught the pillow with ease, smiling cheekily. “You’re no fun.”Hwanwong rolled his eyes and flopped back onto his bed, hugging another pillow to his chest. “If you really love me, you’ll let me rest.”“Fine,” Leedo said with a mock pout. “But only because you asked so nicely, peanut.”With that, he finally left, and Hwanwong sighed in relief.
---But peace didn’t last long.An hour later, Hwanwong was on his way to the kitchen when he bumped into Seoho, one of his neighborhood friends.“Hey, Hwanwong,” Seoho greeted with a casual smile.“Hey,” Hwanwong replied, looking at him curiously. “What are you doing here?”“Just thought I’d visit,” Seoho said smoothly. “By the way, didn’t you get your allowance today?”Hwanwong blinked, surprised by the question. “Uh, yeah. Why?”Seoho grinned, slinging an arm around Hwanwong’s shoulders. “You know, I’ve been eyeing this cool new phone case. Wanna lend me a bit? Just until next week.”Before Hwanwong could respond, a familiar voice cut through the air like a knife.“Lend you what?”Both boys turned to see Leedo standing at the end of the hallway, arms crossed and expression dangerously calm.“Oh, hey, Leedo-hyung,” Seoho said, laughing nervously. “It’s nothing, really. Just a little friendly borrowing.”Leedo raised an eyebrow and strode over, his presence immediately intimidating. He gently pulled Hwanwong out from under Seoho’s arm and stood between them.“Friendly borrowing, huh?” Leedo said, his tone cool. “And what were you planning to do if you couldn’t pay it back?”Seoho scratched the back of his neck, clearly uncomfortable. “I mean… it’s not that serious, hyung.”Leedo’s gaze hardened. “It is serious if you’re trying to take advantage of my brother.”“Hyung, it’s fine—” Hwanwong began, but Leedo held up a hand to stop him.“Peanut, stay out of this,” he said firmly before turning back to Seoho. “If you’re short on money, you should be asking your own family for help. Not guilting my brother into giving you his.”Seoho held up his hands defensively. “Alright, alright. I get it. I won’t ask again.”“You’d better not,” Leedo said, his voice like steel.Seoho muttered a quick goodbye and hurried out of the house, clearly eager to escape Leedo’s glare.
---Once they were alone, Leedo turned to Hwanwong, his expression softening. “Peanut, you’ve got to be careful. Not everyone who smiles at you has good intentions.”“I know,” Hwanwong said quietly, looking down. “I just didn’t want to be rude.”Leedo sighed, pulling him into a hug. “I know you have a good heart, but that’s why I have to look out for you. I can’t let anyone take advantage of my little peanut.”Hwanwong grumbled against Leedo’s chest. “Hyung, you’re so overprotective.”Leedo chuckled, ruffling his hair. “Of course I am. Someone’s gotta make sure you stay safe and cute.”Despite his protests, Hwanwong found himself smiling. Deep down, he knew Leedo’s protectiveness came from a place of love—and that made it hard to stay mad for long.END