As days passed after Joshua's return, the Kim mansion was filled with laughter and warmth, a stark contrast to the quietness that had settled in during his absence. The family was determined to cherish every moment together, and one of the highlights was Joshua's rekindled bond with Jeonghan. The twins had always shared a special connection, and now that they were together again, they were making the most of it.
One sunny morning, Joshua woke up early, excitement bubbling in his chest. He tiptoed into the kitchen, hoping to surprise everyone with breakfast. As he rummaged through the cabinets, he heard soft footsteps behind him.
"Planning to make breakfast without me?" Jeonghan teased, leaning against the doorframe with a smirk.
Joshua turned around, eyes wide. "Hannie! I wanted to surprise everyone!"
Jeonghan's expression softened. "You know you can't cook without me, right?" He walked over and took control of the spatula in Joshua's hand, showing him the ropes with gentle hands.
As they cooked together, the kitchen filled with the sweet smell of pancakes and fresh fruit. They reminisced about their childhood mornings, where they would often race to see who could finish their breakfast first, or who could flip a pancake without it falling apart.
"Remember the time you tried to flip one and it landed on Dad's head?" Jeonghan laughed, shaking his head. "He was so confused!"
Joshua giggled, the memories flooding back. "I thought he was going to explode! But he just laughed and ate it anyway."
The twins worked in harmony, their playful banter filling the air. Jeonghan would occasionally sneak in a playful jab or a light-hearted tease, but there was also a tender undertone to their exchanges.
When breakfast was finally ready, they brought the plates to the dining room, where their parents and brothers were eagerly waiting.
"Look what we made!" Joshua announced proudly, setting the plates down with a flourish. "Pancakes and fruit!"
"Wow, you two are a dynamic duo!" Mingyu exclaimed, beaming at them.
Wonwoo nodded in agreement, a soft smile on his face. "I'm impressed! But remember, Joshua, you have to share the credit with Jeonghan since he did most of the work."
"Hey!" Joshua protested, but he couldn't hide his smile. Jeonghan winked at him, clearly enjoying the moment.
After breakfast, the family decided to spend a lazy afternoon in the living room. They sprawled out on the floor, playing board games and reminiscing about their favorite memories together.
At one point, Jeonghan pulled out an old photo album filled with pictures of their childhood. As they flipped through the pages, laughter erupted as they came across a photo of Joshua, chubby-cheeked and covered in cake from his first birthday.
"Oh my gosh, look at that face!" Jeonghan laughed, pointing at the picture. "You were so adorable, Josh!"
"I still am!" Joshua shot back playfully, sticking his tongue out. "But I have to say, I was cuter back then."
"Clearly," Seungcheol agreed, chuckling. "You were the cutest baby. But don't forget who took care of you!"
Joshua feigned shock, gasping dramatically. "Oh, yes, the ever-doting big brother!"
As evening fell, the family decided to have a little outdoor gathering in the backyard. The sky was clear, dotted with stars, creating a perfect backdrop for a family bonding session.
Joshua, excited to share this moment with his family, set up a cozy space with blankets and pillows. Once everyone was settled, he lay down on his back, gazing up at the stars.
Jeonghan settled down beside him, following his gaze. "I've always loved stargazing with you, shua. It feels like we're connected to something bigger."
Joshua turned to look at Jeonghan, a warm smile spreading across his face. "You know, I missed this so much. Just being with you and everyone else."
Jeonghan nodded, his expression softening. "Me too. I missed you more than I thought I would."
As they lay there, Joshua playfully nudged Jeonghan's shoulder. "Remember our secret language? We should use it again!"
Jeonghan's eyes sparkled with mischief. "You mean the one we made up when we were kids? The one that drove everyone crazy?"
"Exactly!" Joshua replied, grinning widely. "Let's speak it all night and confuse everyone!"
And so, they began to chatter in their silly, made-up language, laughing as they came up with ridiculous words and phrases that only they understood. Their laughter filled the night air, echoing with a sense of joy and love that only twins could share.
Later that night, the family decided to wind down with a movie night. Joshua insisted on watching one of their childhood favorites a silly animated movie that they used to adore.
As they all settled in, Joshua found himself sandwiched between his appa and Jeonghan, who both draped an arm around him. The warmth and security of being with his family enveloped him like a cozy blanket.
During a particularly funny scene, Joshua burst out laughing, his laughter infectious. Jeonghan couldn't help but join in, and soon the whole room was filled with their laughter.
"Look at you two," Their dad teased, shaking his head. "You're like little kids again!"
As the movie played on, there were moments when Joshua would lean into Jeonghan, who would instinctively wrap his arm around him tighter, a silent promise to always be there. Their bond was evident, a testament to their unwavering love for one another.
As the night came to an end, Joshua found himself in his bedroom. He sat on the edge of his bed, reflecting on how much had changed but also how much remained the same.
Jeonghan knocked lightly on the door before entering, a soft smile on his face. "Can I come in?"
"Of course, hannie" Joshua replied, waving him over.
Jeonghan settled beside him, their shoulders touching. "I'm really glad you're back, you know. It feels whole again."
Joshua smiled, feeling warmth spread through him. "I missed you so much. I thought about you every day."
"Me too," Jeonghan admitted softly. "You're my other half, Joshuji. I don't want to ever be apart from you again."
"Neither do I," Joshua said, leaning his head against Jeonghan's shoulder. "I'm home now, and I promise I'll always be here for you."
As they sat together, basking in the comfort of each other's presence, Joshua realized that no matter the challenges they had faced, their bond would always remain unbreakable. It was a love forged in shared laughter, tears, and countless memories a bond that would guide them through whatever life had in store for them next.
For those who asked for more tender moments between Joshua and Jeonghan, this epilogue is for you guys!
"Soo, please enjoy reading! 🩵"
