Neighbor (Zihao x Keita from Boys Planet)

Part 2: Birthday Celebration

Keita and Zihao were busy decorating the living room for Takuto's birthday celebration when Keita's mom walked in with a tray of snacks.

"Wow, you guys are doing a great job!" she exclaimed. "Thanks for helping me with the decorations, Zihao. I couldn't have done it without you."

Zihao smiled. "No problem, Mrs. Maeda. It's fun to help out."

Keita chimed in, "Yeah, Zihao's really good at this kind of stuff. He helped me decorate for my own birthday party last year."

Mrs. Maeda chuckled. "Well, it looks like we've got a great team here. Why don't you two take a break and join me in the kitchen? I could use some help with the cooking."

Zihao and Keita eagerly followed Mrs. Maeda into the kitchen. The scent of fresh ingredients filled the air, and Zihao's mouth watered as he saw the various dishes being prepared.

"What are you making, Mrs. Maeda?" Zihao asked curiously.

"I'm making bulgogi, japchae, and some vegetable side dishes," she replied. "It's Takuto's favorite meal, and we're celebrating his birthday tonight."

Zihao nodded in understanding. "It all looks and smells so delicious. Can I help with anything?"

Mrs. Maeda smiled gratefully. "Actually, could you help me chop up these vegetables? Just make sure to cut them into small, even pieces."

"Sure thing," Zihao said, grabbing a knife and starting to work.

As they worked, Mrs. Maeda asked Zihao about his life in China and how he was adjusting to life in Korea. They chatted about their favorite foods and cultural differences, and before long, they had finished cooking.

Once the food was ready, they all sat down at the dining table to enjoy the feast. As they ate and laughed together, Zihao felt grateful for the warmth and hospitality of Keita's family. It was moments like these that made him feel like he truly belonged in his new home.

As they finished up the meal, Takuto couldn't contain his excitement any longer. "This was the best birthday ever!" he exclaimed. "Thank you so much, Mom, Keita, and Zihao!"

Mrs. Maeda smiled. "You're very welcome, Takuto. We're so glad you enjoyed it."

Keita added, "Yeah, I think it's safe to say that you're officially a teenager now!"

Takuto laughed, and then turned to Zihao. "Zihao, can I tell you something?"

"Of course," Zihao said with a smile.

Takuto leaned in closer. "You know, you're like an older brother to me. You're so cool and calm all the time. I really look up to you."

Zihao's eyes widened in surprise, and then he grinned. "Thanks, Takuto. That means a lot to me."

Keita rolled her eyes playfully. "Hey, what am I, chopped liver?"

Takuto giggled. "You are like an older sister to me sometimes. You're always nagging me to clean my room and do my homework.."

The group laughed together, feeling happy and content in each other's company. As Zihao looked around the table, he felt grateful for this warm and loving family who had welcomed him with open arms. He knew that he had found true friends and a second family in Keita and her mom and brother, and he looked forward to many more happy times together. 

For Keita, Zihao knew that his feeling for him is unlike friend or brother anymore. Zihao began to fall in love with Keita.