Fashioned For Love | Minsung AU

Thirty Eight

~~~~~~~~ 38 ~~~~~~~~

Minho

The Lee family's annual Christmas party was always a grand affair, an opulent display of wealth and power that showcased the family's status in the upper echelons of society. It was everything Minho hated about his parents' world, but this year, he couldn't avoid it. His father, Lee Taemin, had insisted that Minho be there early, dressed in the finest tailored suit, to greet the guests alongside his parents, as though they were the perfect family.

Minho stood between his mother and father at the entrance to their sprawling mansion, the massive Christmas tree behind them dripping in glittering ornaments and lights. His mother, dressed in a gown that sparkled as brightly as the diamonds at her neck, was all smiles, playing the part of the gracious hostess. His father, stern but impeccably put together, was all business, greeting every guest as if they were a potential investor in his empire.

Minho played his role, smiling for the cameras, shaking hands, and making polite conversation with guests as they arrived, all while feeling disconnected from the entire event. His mind kept wandering to Jisung and his family. They were due to arrive soon, and Minho couldn't wait to see them. He had arranged for the best tailors and boutiques to ensure they looked the part, but he knew it wasn't the clothes that worried him. He just wanted them to feel comfortable, not out of place in the sea of polished, wealthy elites that filled the party. The only highlight so far had been the arrival of his friends. It seemed that they had all come together, Chan, Hyunjin, Changbin and Felix. Now at least the Han's would also have some people to talk to once they got here.

Time dragged on as more guests arrived, the shallow small talk draining Minho's energy. Finally, just as he was starting to feel restless, he spotted Jisung and his family entering the grand foyer among a wave of other guests. Minho's eyes lit up the moment he spotted Jisung and his family entering the grand foyer of the Lee mansion. In the sea of glittering gowns, expensive suits, and superficial conversations, Jisung was a breath of fresh air. He looked striking in his tailored suit, carrying an air of confidence that made Minho's heart swell with pride. Behind him, Jiho, Woosung, and Josang followed, dressed elegantly but still maintaining that warmth and authenticity that had drawn Minho to them in the first place.

Without hesitation, Minho stepped forward to greet them, momentarily forgetting his obligation to stand with his parents at the entrance. A genuine smile spread across his face as he approached.

"You made it," Minho said softly, his eyes lingering on Jisung a little longer than necessary before turning to Jisung's parents. "You all look amazing."

Jiho beamed and Woosung gave a nod of appreciation. "The place is incredible," Woosung said, his eyes glancing around the lavishly decorated mansion. Even Josang, wide-eyed at the grandeur, was momentarily speechless.

Minho felt a twinge of happiness seeing them here, part of his world, even if just for a night. He had wanted this to go smoothly, to bridge the gap between his two lives.

But before he could say anything more, a sharp voice called out from behind him.

"Minho," his father's voice cut through the crowd like a knife, cold and demanding. "Get back here."

Minho stiffened, glancing back toward his father, who was already shaking hands with another wealthy guest. His mother stood by, smiling dutifully, though there was no warmth in her expression. Neither of them even bothered to look at Jisung's family, their dismissiveness as clear as it was painful.

His heart sank, the brief moment of joy quickly dissolving. He turned back to Jisung, feeling torn between wanting to stay and the responsibility thrust upon him by his parents.