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    #NIELONG ARCHIVE: Lost Forest

    ลำดับตอนที่ #11 : [ENG] Wildest Dream (FTBAWTFT/Harry Potter au)

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    Wildest Dream

    KDN x OSW

    Au: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

    Tags: Romance, slow burn, eventual smut

    Word counts: 17,853

    (ภาษาอั๫๥ฤษล้วนนะ​๨ะ​)

    *Alexander Arphodine Stagharte = Ong Seongwu / Matthew Hendrickson = Hwang Minhyun / Jonas Hendrickson = Yoon Jisung / Sebastian Kowalski = Ha seongwoon / Kenneth Stagharte = Seo Kangjoon

    *Auror = มือปราบมาร / Magizoologist = นั๥สั๹ว์วิ​เศษวิทยา / Legilimens = ผู้มี๨วามสามารถอ่าน​ใ๬

     




    Daniel let out a deep sigh that he’d been holding in. To be more precise, it was more of a breathy moan that he’d made as he came in his young boyfriend’s mouth. His hands tugged at the soft brunette strands hard enough that it’ll sting for an hour, but he knew that Alex wouldn’t mind; he liked it rough. He was leaning on his leather chair in his office, head tipped back against it in post-cotial bliss. But he’s starting to regret his temporary weakness, ashamed that he had let Alex get what he wanted. Persistent needy bastard. Mercy Lewis! He just received a blow job in his office!

    Daniel felt bad. His office must smell like cum, and the thought repulsed him. He knew that no one would ever notice that their boss, Daniel Kang, the Director of Magical Security of MACUSA, had done something nasty in his office, but still. This place was where he has been working for the past twenty years, and had been working in personal office for half of that. The workplace should be the place for work only, to be serious and appropriated, not the place for bed room activity! It was sacrilege, unprofessional! Alex, seeing the look on his face, huffed.

    “Come on, Danny. Don’t make that face.” Alex chuckled as he zipped up his grumpy boyfriend’s trouser then smoothed out the wrinkles on his plain white shirt. The brown-haired man got on his feet, licking all the cum off his long digits and lips, his honey eyes not once breaking eye contact with Daniel’s dark ones. Sexy as fuck, and the piece of shit knew it.

    “It’s not funny.” Daniel grumbled as he sat composedly with stiff shoulders, attempting to recover from his breach of decorum.

    “It’s not; it’s pleasurable. Don’t tell me you disliked it, because you came so hard and almost choked me with your cock, Danny.” Alex sassed. He leaned his lithe body against Daniel’s antique wooden desk and waved his wand, calling his notebook over to continue writing something he was working on at the moment, oblivious to a scoff from Daniel.

    “No more inappropriate behavior in my office. I forbid you, Alex.”

    “Fine, fine. As you like.” Daniel didn’t have to look at the other to know that Alex was eye-rolling at him. When Daniel’s attention turned back to his pile of paperwork, Alex knew that it was his cue to leave him alone. Alex kissed his temple with a murmured

    “see you at home tonight” and left his office to find something else to do.

    Once he was left alone in peace, Daniel sighed. There was loads of things to be done. He casted a cleaning spell on himself and his office and added some freshening charms. He then got back to work; he needed to finish reading reports and start working on his new case. Daniel tried not to think how and why he ended up being with the one and only trouble maker, messy, rule breaker, Alexander Arphodine Stagharte.

But, like the atrocious niffler searching for gold, Alex eventually made his way into his thoughts.

     


     

    Daniel Kang never cared about getting married. His parents gave up after his second divorce, thankfully. The marriages that they had arranged for him did not help the romantic endeavor; he never loved his ex-spouses because it was all arranged in the first place. As the only heir of Kang household, one of the wealthiest and the most powerful pureblood families in America, it was his undeniable task to succeed his pureblood line. Therefore, he had agreed to marry a pureblood witch that their parents had arranged. It ended up terribly.

    His parents, hanging onto hope, arranged him another one, they married, and it ended up all the same. He was glad his parents had finally left him alone so he could focus entirely on his work.

Daniel Kang was the type of man who would probably die upon a pile of paperwork with no one to miss him. Sad but true.

    “Mr. Kang, s-sir, here is your coffee.” The director absentmindedly eyed a cup filled with hot black coffee on the countertop before him. He looked up to meet the waitress’s timid eyes with a small smile on his tired-looking face. It was merely to be polite, yet the girl’s face bloomed with a blush.

    “Thank you. Keep the change.” He paid for his coffee and immediately stormed out of the canteen inside MACUSA. As he walked through the hallways, people looked at him in awe as they always did. He knew how perceived him. He was intimidating and mysterious. He was intriguing to others because of his handsome face and dark eyes, which more prominent under his thick eyebrows. His hair was brushed back and gelled nicely. His sense in fashion was impeccable; all his clothes were tailored, and the combination of monochrome with a hint of color made him a powerful visual worthy of Director of Magical Security.

    That was why, even with his failed love life, people wanted to have him or be him.

    Problem was: Daniel wasn’t interested, at all.

    “You know, Daniel. I appreciate your hard work all these years, but you have to live your life sometimes.” Seraphina commented after their discussion about recent cases ended. Her posture was poised as always, even after a long day and night of work. Never showing weakness.

    “Say the one who’s single.” Daniel bit back, flipping through reports, eyes gluing to the typography.
“I’m not always single, for your information.” She smirked. “And I have interests beyond paperwork.”

    Daniel sighed, irritated. He shot back with a deadly glare toward the Madam President that was easily ignored, and closed his folder, leaning back in his chair with hands propped on his lap composedly.

    “What are you proposing, Seraphina?” The blonde shrugged as she casually checked on her purple polished nails.

    “I am not proposing anything, just pointing out the idea. As a friend, I am worried because you can’t just work until you die from it.” Seraphina glanced at him with gentleness. Daniel remained silent throughout the talk until Seraphina gave up on his stubbornness and left. There was no point; she knew that Daniel wouldn’t listen to her since both of his failed marriages proved enough of his incapability of commitment to another human being to him. She deeply hoped that there would be someone out there who could destroy his wall and warm his cold heart.

    It has been said: Third time’s the charm, isn't it?

    The director walked out of the Woolworth building. It was late night already when he finished his work. For the record, this was considered early for him. Daniel took a deep breath of the chilled night breeze to clear his mind as he walked unhurriedly down the empty street, with street lamps that illuminated the dark. He loved night time because it left him in peace as everyone stayed in their house, sleeping. New York was lively and somewhat chaotic during the day, but at night like this, it was slow and magical.

    Today was also his fortieth birthday, but nothing special. It was as same as any other day of the year. He worked, went back home, then worked more. Seraphina was right in every aspect because he couldn’t just work and die like a machine. Clearly, no one attracted him and he was too busy to force a relationship for the third time. As the Director of Magical Security and a heir from elite household, he also had standards to maintain. He had no social life; all he had in his life was work. He was reserved and never engaged in small talk, why would he? He probably bored his companion faster than Abernathy did. He didn’t hang out at the bar, and he rarely ate out. Daniel Kang was definitely a boring old man.

    “Not again! Ughh bugger, bugger, bloody bugger!”

    Daniel’s wandering mind snapped back to reality at the loud crash and quick footsteps over the corner of the street. His auror senses kicked in as he reached for his wand and carefully walked toward the sound. He heard some rustling and the swift movement of person’s footsteps, low grumbles, and…was that a claw scratching sound? Daniel frowned, confused at the situation, but he was certain that whatever was happening here came from a wizard, not a no-maj.

    “You bugger— stop stealing! Could you just behave, for once!?” The man in ridiculous shade of blue coat groaned as he ran after some small black fur with lots of no-maj jewelries everywhere. His footwork was surprisingly good as he moved left to right and casted nonverbal spell to halt whatever-it-was creature mid-air. The guy quickly walked to the writhing creature, grabbed its overstuffed body and hung it upside down. Daniel eyes grew slightly wider as he saw golds, coins, and many more shiny sparkly objects fell out of its pouch, much to its protesting squeak.

    “Bad, bad girl.” The guy who has beautiful shade of brown hair said breathlessly while he opened his brown leather case and finally dropped the whining creature into a case. He put his hand on his either side of his hips as he looked around disaster he had caused, picking his wand up, about to cast Reparo, and Daniel thought it was his cue to announce his presence.

    “I believed we have a situation here.” He spoke and the brunette jumped in shock. He turned to Daniel, eyes widened for a second then he gave him a shy smile.

    “Ugh…um, yes, I believe so. But you don’t have to worry, I’ll fix this and no one will know this ever happened!” A British, Daniel noted, tried to act casual and confident. Daniel knew that his character and his aura screamed an auror, or someone who was in charge, so he wasn’t surprised if this guy could sense it.

    “You better, Mister. Then I’ll have to take you in for inspection.” The guy seemed a little paler than he already was but somehow managed to masked it.

    “It’s late, isn't it? Shouldn’t everyone be asleep by now?” Oh he had some quirks, but Daniel wouldn’t let him slide. Whatever he might carry in the case of his around New York was unknown. He wouldn't get away on his watch.

    “I happen to be awake.” Daniel said casually. Both hands were in his coat pocket, wand in his right palm, ready for anything that might happen. The brown-haired man didn’t reply back as he worked his wand with repairing charm. With a blink of an eye, the broken window glass, display shelves and jewelries were back to their undisturbed places. He bent down to slowly to pick up his case, too slow. He turned out his body slightly with his wand still in his hand. This could be no good, his auror sense told him. Daniel leapt fast to grab the man’s arm just in time as the man apparated to escape.

    They apparated to the middle of Central Park. The British let out a loud gasp because Morgana! The-tense-and-grumpy auror had tagged along! Before he could say anything, the dark-haired man apparated them again, now to an interrogation room. No one should have been in interrogation room this late, but who could tell Daniel Kang what not to do in his (other) office?

    The director gestured the British to sit across him. Thankfully he did without any question and Daniel leaned back in his chair, tired already.

    “Let’s start with; Who are you and what is your purpose of coming to America?” His voice was firm with authority.

    “Do we have to go through this at ten at night, sir?” The brown-haired man’s eyes drooped in surrender despite his words spoke otherwise. “Perhaps wait until tomor—”

    “Or would you prefer stay the night here in a cell?” Daniel interrupted with irritation in his voice. He wanted to go home and enjoyed hot bath and his very expensive whisky saved only for his birthday, not to waste his time playing with this kid. The latter sensed his annoyance so he shut his mouth, honey-brown eyes looked around the room to find something interesting, his legs bounced up and down and it made Daniel more annoyed than he already was.

    “Now answer my question.”

     


     

    Turned out the British guy was Alex Stagharte, younger brother of Kenneth Stagharte—his best friend during the Great War. He did talk about his younger brother a lot, but Daniel didn’t remember the details. Those stories from Kenneth faded in his memory years ago. Alex came to America because he traveled, of course Daniel knew that already, but Daniel knew that the younger man left his real intentions out. But since it seemed harmless, Daniel didn’t push further knowing that only way to have that was to use Veritaserum. Now, they were on the topic of his interrogation: the case.

    “It isn’t a normal case, isn’t it? I can feel its magic. So, I have two choices for you Mr. Stagharte—” Daniel spoke slowly because he wasn’t going to repeat himself over again.

    “Either you tell me what is it you’re carrying in this case, or I’ll have to inspect it myself.” Alex gaped, speechless, and he clutched onto its handle tighter in a meager attempt at protection. He looked uncertain and his cocky character dropped for a moment before it was back on again. Daniel thought it was quite interesting that Alex was a cheeky mischievous ass in one moment, then he was shy and submissive in the next.

    “O-okay, but…” He stammered, looking up at the older man through his long lashes. Daniel quirked his brow a little and the brunette sighed in submission. He put the case down on the desk but made no move to open it.

    “Well, I am a Magizoologist, as I told you.” What was a Magizoologist again? Daniel thought said man had come up with his own term, but if the man had wanted an easy title, he should’ve claimed himself as a Report Examination Specialist then. Alex squinted like he knew what the director been thinking.

    “I presume my occupation does not yet exist in your country, but it a very specialized career in England. I traveled to study magical beasts and creatures around the world. And some of them are in my case.” Said Alex as he placed his hand upon the brown case, fingers caressed smooth leather texture unconsciously.

    “You carry magical creatures in this case? What kind of creatures?” Daniel couldn't believe that there was such a large security breach. Alex gave him a coy smile as he answered.

    “You already met one, it’s a niffler. They’re attracted to shiny objects and tend to put them in its pouch. Actually, I have several in my case. Would love to show you, sir, but today is no good.” He knew it was an excuse, but save it for later, he need his whisky for merlin’s beard.

    “I believe that they’re illegal.”

    “They’re abused and mistreated. I help them and take care of them until they’re all healthy and ready to go back to their home. They’re not dangerous, sir.” This time Alex’s voice was strong with confidence. Daniel stood tall, hands in his trouser pockets. His dark brown eyes observed Alex silently, thinking what should he do in this circumstance. Locking Alex up in a cell would be a good idea, and he could deal with the case full of illegal creatures tomorrow.

    “Where are you staying during your visit here, Mr. Stagharte?”

    “I stayed over my friend’s apartment.”

    “Well, you can send an owl to your friend to inform him or her that you’ll be staying at new place tonight.”

After receiving a lot of offensive glances (which he easily ignored) from Alex, he led him to his new place: the basement cell. He locked it with spells to make sure that this mischievous wizard wouldn’t succeed in escaping MACUSA, not that he could, but better safe than sorry. Daniel left a grumpy Alex and finally apparated home to enjoy a hot bath and the burning taste of his hundred-year-old birthday whisky in the silent embrace of the night.

    He, though, didn’t expect Alex to look fresh and clean after a night in what was technically jail. Daniel came back early next morning to find Alex sitting on the cold stoned floor, knees curled up while he scrambled some writing on his notebook. He even changed his clothes!

    The younger man’s attention finally landed on the Director of Magical Security who stood poised in his crisp dress shirt, dark grey three-piece pinstripe suit, dark olive green tie decorated with emerald scorpion pin, and his long black wool coat. The brunette took his time observed Daniel’s clothes because, Merlin, this man provided such a pretty sight to look at.

    “Good morning, Mr. Stagharte. Did you sleep well last night?” Alex hummed in response, putting his notebook back in his coat pocket as he got up to his feet.

    “I was adaptable.” Daniel released Alex out of the cell and led them upstairs, back to his personal office. He motioned Alex to put his case back down on his well-lacquered wooden floor. Round honey eyes glared at him, half annoyed half pleaded. Alex pursed his lips when saw the dark-haired man’s smug face.

    “Alright. Let’s see what’s inside this mysterious case of yours, shall we?”

Alex groaned and unwillingly open the case. Daniel asked the Briton to be his guide because he had little knowledge about whatever creatures were in there. He didn’t want Alex to think he might do harm to his beloved creatures, as the protective mother hen as he seemed.

    However, Daniel thought he might see white a little as they wandered through the case. The first thing he noticed was how delicate each habitat was. Second thing was that Alex must be quite a remarkable and powerful wizard as the way he carried giant amount of undetectable extension charm with him all the time, with all of functions and mechanic within, the director admit he was impressed.

    Third thing was, NEWT WAS MESSY AS FUCK! Mercy Lewis! His eyes might bleed if he looked around any longer. All his workspaces were a disaster and unorganized! Parchments and drawing sketch papers were scattered everywhere. Used cloths were up there and down here, and he also saw undergarments somewhere and it wasn’t hygienic at all. Piles of something unidentified on his large working table. Potion bottles crowded in one tall shelf. Botany, plants, some of dried leafs he hadn't bothered to cleaned up, were stepped upon! Daniel made a disgusted sound in his head. He felt his skin prickle and started to get goosebumps. His neat freak self was screaming in pain, his being was screaming louder than when he got hit by Crucio spell.

    He gave up and excused himself, telling himself that he has a meeting to attend. Alex’s creatures were absolutely illegal. His messy and disastrous life was an illegally lethal dose for the orderly Daniel Kang.

    Daniel shooed Alex out of his office and casted a cleaning spell on himself.

     


     

    Daniel saw Alex soon after their first meeting when Alex skipped around like a bunny through MACUSA’s main hall in the afternoon, with one of his trustworthy subordinates: Matthew Hendrickson. How rude. Who would be allowed to walk this happily inside this honored building? Well, it seemed like Alex Stagharte couldn't care less.

    “I can’t wait to show you, Matt! I’ll let you pet one!” Alex bounced on the ball of his feet, exclaiming enthusiastically at the short haired man who smiled endearingly at the man.

    “I know, Alex. Can we just go to my office first?” Matthew lowered his voice to indicate to Alex to do the same, but he seemed to not catch the hint.

    “Oh, right!” His smile was getting bigger, round honey eyes shining even brighter with excitement, eyes crinkling a little, soft-looking cheeks flushed. Daniel noted the way Matthew looked at Alex with his loving gaze. He sped up his pace to catch the same elevator ride with two of them. Matthew was the first who caught his presence first, and the horrified look in his face brought a smirk on his handsome face.

    “Good afternoon, Mr. Kang sir.” Matthew greeted, kept his voice low for particular reason.

    “Good afternoon, Matthew, Mr. Stagharte.” Daniel leisurely greeted back, eyed toward brown fluffy hair bunny—no, he meant, man.

    “Hello Director Kang. Pleased to meet you so soon.” The director clasped his hand behind his back, head tilting to the right where Alex was standing beside him.

    “Unfortunately, I couldn’t say the same to you. What creatures have you newly discovered?” He swore he saw Matthew become completely pale at his statement, and he smirked in his head. Alex though, didn’t recognize the threat he poised and chirped back what he had discovered during a week after their first meeting. Matthew pinched the brunette man’s side through his thick mauve coat and suddenly it hit him what he had done. Alex shut his mouth.

    “Well, Mr. Stagharte, I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed exploring New York.” He gave the two his famous sweet-deadly smile. Matthew shuddered; he couldn’t be paler.

    “But I’m afraid I must inform you that you have broken quite a few laws.” He used his deep auror voice, and it rumbled in the back of his throat like a growl, eyes darkening as he looked straight into those beautiful shades of brown until Alex couldn’t hold the contact. Without further explanation, Daniel dragged Alex out of the lift once the goblin announced their arrival.

    Their second meeting left Alex grumpy, arm crossed over his chest, alone in the now familiar cell. This time Daniel assigned his other fellow, Eisenburg, to inspect and report to him, while he gave Matthew a talk about the illegal friend of his. (Mainly because he didn't dare to go back to that unhygienic case, ever again.)

     


     

    “What would you like to talk to me about, Madam President?” Daniel let himself in after a knock on Seraphina golden office’s door. She hummed as she worked on a document, her golden purple quill shifted along movements of her calligraphy.

    “Please sit, Kang.” He did what he was told. Seraphina put her quill on its holder and handed him a report folder. Daniel opened it to skimmed through a little before met her eyes, confused.

    “What’s with this British Magizoologist? You captured him twice, accused him of illegal acts that may harm or expose our community to no-majs, then do nothing and let him flee?” Seraphina was starting to get frustrated, he could tell.

    “Technically, he doesn’t flee; he’s staying with Hendrickson brothers. He has already registered his wand and has his creature carriage permit from MoM. He doesn’t cause any trouble, and keeps most of his creatures in his case, except for the niffler.” Daniel explained, which was true. He couldn’t find any excuse to hold Alex longer than a night with a warning in which Alex halfheartedly promised not to cause trouble.

    “And…?” She squinted.

    “The murder case we’re working on, I believe it was a creature because of the odd foot prints and a giant claw mark at the scene. Now we have someone who knows about creatures better than all of us combined, so I proposed that we required his help to speed up our investigation, and hopefully close this case earlier.” Daniel sit straight in his chair, tensed as Seraphina examined him. She sighed and let her guard down, leaned back comfortably in her chair.

    “This doesn’t seem like you, Daniel. Asking for help?”

    “I know, but, it’s time to admit that this is beyond our competence, Seraphina.”

    “Anyway, I quite like the idea that we keep our potential trouble maker close. You’ll keep a close eye on him to make sure he’ll behave, wouldn’t you? We know how troublesome a Stagharte can be sometimes.” He smirked in acknowledgement, Seraphina once met Kenneth Stagharte. She knew.

    “Of course, Seraphina. I would.”

     


     

    “Morgana! Alexander Stagharte! Get away from there! Now!”

    

You reckless crazy bun! Daniel groaned loudly as he quickly trailed the magizoologist who seemed to be oblivious to the chaotic fight between aurors and traffickers. Alex ran inside the isolated building and ducked his head low to avoid a flash of spell over his head, rolling and scrambling on the ground to shield the dragon eggs with his own body from spells. He waved his hand to block attacking spells and shot back. He moved as elegantly as a cat, with soft footstep and agile movements, dragon eggs clutched in his arm.

    Daniel was fascinated by Alex’s fluid movements before his eyes; it was like he was dancing on the war field. His authentic mauve coat wavered like Pink Grosbeak bird’s feather. His soft strands scattered in every direction like a wildfire, eyes opened wide and fiercely determined. He held his wand in between his teeth while he knocked his head against a trafficker who got in his way, a hand pushing them down onto the concrete floor, and ran to his abandoned case to secure those eggs.

    Damn it! That was unhygienic and a disgusting way to treat one’s wand.

    As much as Daniel was impressed with his performance, this was totally out of control. It was the second case Alex was asked for help with since there were dragon eggs involved. The magizoologist agreed right away, because why not? He loved when adrenaline pumped inside his body; he loved to move and messing around; he loved excitement, and if this was his chance to keep dragon eggs, Alex was more than willing to help.

They had planned for days until they were clear and certain. They had planned how to act.

    They planned to wait for the right moment to capture those damn traffickers. Daniel planned a perfect execution for all of them for their safety. Daniel hadn’t planned to have Alex to get his own way to save dragon eggs, Alex who never listened to anyone. Alex who had fun when he was at risk and put all his best aurors into damn fight against traffickers. For merlin’s sake!

    “Damn it Alex! Stop running!” Daniel barked as he hid behind a pillar, ready to attack. He growled at the trafficker who tried to attack Alex from behind, the director was faster as he pushed them away with his spell. He got back into the fight, right hand using his wand and left hand did wandless magic, lightening of spells flashed until Daniel saw nothing clear anymore but somehow still identified the brunette and his pale purple coat popped out among darkness of the building. Alex apparated to the closest he could get to his case which was left outside.

Alex pointed his wand to his case, opened it and placed dragon eggs into his extended case. A triumphant smile formed on his full lips, now back to reality where aurors fought against traffickers, some of them injured and some were captured.

    “Got it!” Alex shouted back at Daniel, got back on his feet. He saw Daniel ran toward him then one of the traffickers point his wand directly at the director.

    “Behind your back, Mr. Kang!” Alex barked as he scooted closer, aimed his wand directly at the man.

    “Stupefy!” Said trafficker was stunned at the spell but recovered quickly. However, Daniel casted a full body-bind curse at him to prevent further attacks. Alex finally ran back by his side, breathless from running, eyes filled with excitement and smile so brightly at him.

The older man took a deep breath to calm his rapid heartbeat, dark brown eyes glanced at the brunette with a frown. He didn’t like it, Daniel decided, either at Alex’s irresponsible act or the nauseous feeling in his stomach at the possibility of Alex get hurt, or both.

    “You got cut here.” Alex said, still breathless. He used his delicate long fingers to brush at Daniel’s sweaty cheekbone and he hissed, seeing his blood caught on Alex’s thumb.

    Daniel’s Adam’s apple bobbed as swallowed dryly when Alex literally licked his blood off his finger. He quickly reached for his handkerchief in his shirt’s pocket and carefully dabbed on the wound, attentively looked at his face through his thick long brown lashes. They were close enough that the director could see three dots on his left cheek, and one on the side of his neck. He gazed into the spectrum of his beautiful burnt caramel brown orbs, and nauseous feeling in the pit of his stomach came back again.

    “There. Nothing serious. Just a scratch.”

Alex caught his eyes that lasted for a few seconds, a coy smile on his thin lips.

    “We need to talk about what you did, Alexander Stagharte.” Daniel winced at his cracked voice but tried to keep his stern serious face. The brunette cocked his head to the side, baring his smooth pale neck under his loose shirt for show and gave him a confused look.

    “Okay…? O-Okay. But first, let me take care of dragon eggs.” He eyed him expectantly and Daniel groaned exasperatedly for the nth times tonight. He huffed and walked toward his aurors, assigned them to apparate their suspects to the headquarter for inspection procedure.

    Alex went into his case to immediately take care of his newest babies which somewhat in crisis situation, but kindly asked Daniel to brought his case with him when he left to wherever he would be going, then they would have their talk later (how dare he told him to carry his case for him!?).

    Daniel didn’t expect the talk to be like this. Absolutely not.

Maybe he was old and exhausted, so he was less stubborn when he easily agreed to leave MACUSA earlier tonight, just to get a drink with Alex Stagharte. Maybe it was a trick, batting eyelashes at him and softly touch on his elbow. Daniel was out of his plan too many times that his ego and alter ego screamed like crazy, it utterly contrasted with his nature. Discomfort must have shown on his face when Alex playfully brought up the topic.

    “Today must have freaked you out.” The magizoologist leaned back against the bar, beer in his hand. He discarded his coat, staying comfortably in his earthy-brown vest and dirt stained white shirt. Collar unbuttoned, showing pearly white skin of his graceful neck and giving a glimpse of his pretty collarbones, sleeves rolled up to his elbow. Meanwhile, Daniel stayed as perfect as he always was, stood in his director pose next to Alex. They were at a small pub 2 blocks away from Woolworth building. Thankfully, it wasn’t as crowded as he thought it would, and the jazz was quite pleasurable.

    “Plans are no fun.” Alex teased and drank his beer, cheek flushed. Daniel snorted, loosened up after his second glass of fire whisky.

    “I wouldn’t have lived this far if I was reckless like you. Mr. Stagharte. My job requires high responsibilities, and you carried none. You put my aurors at risk, and some of them were injured because of your thoughtless act.” The auror scowled. Even after two glasses of whisky, he was standing tall, eyes stern, voice firmed and attentive.

    “I don’t like it.” Alex retorted, turned his head toward Daniel’s direction but not actually turned to look at his face. This way Daniel could admire his prominent cheekbone and soft cheek, his lashes looked longer in this angle. His fine locks looked way too messy that its owner didn’t care to tame down. Daniel slapped himself in his mind because he stared.

    “Excuse me?” He finally managed to speak.

    “I don’t like when you called me by my last name.” Brown orbs dimmed as he caught his gaze, and backed on wherever but Daniel’s.

    “What?”

    “Just Alex. Call me Alex like when you did at the scene.”

    “Okay. Alex.” His brows shot up in surprise. Taking big gulp of alcohol, let the fire burned down his throat to his stomach. Daniel heard pleased sound from the brunette next to him as Alex scooted closer, their arms touched once Alex adjusted his posture. The brunette finished his drink and ordered for another one.

    “I was wondering, Mr. Kang, is it true that you go to work at 6 in the morning and usually leave at 2 the next morning? No social life, no friends, no family?” His voice slurred at the end. He turned to face the bar, leaned over, elbows propped on its hard surface.

    “It is true. I have lots to do in a day. I don’t waste my time for nonsensical activities.” Alex hummed, playing with the rim of his glass against his pink lips. If it wasn’t Alex Stagharte, Daniel would’ve thought he was flirting because the way he presented his lithe body, from the backside it was easier to appreciate his curve, slim waist and perky butt.

    “Hmm, a workaholic?” Alex tilted his head up a little to glance at Daniel, who turned his head to look back. Oh, Alex’s voice was somewhat husky and…dreamy? Must be the alcohol he had consumed.

    “That’s what people said.” Daniel chuckled as he put his glass down. His coat was too warm for now, he didn’t like if he had sweaty spots on his shirt. The older man was missing the look Alex gave to him.

    “I tend to my creatures and when I don’t, I write a book, brew potions, experiments. I often forget to eat or sleep. I suppose that I'm also a workaholic.” A small smile tugged at Alex’s lips at the dark haired auror’s disinterest in the conversation.

    “Mmm?”

    “You’re not the only one whose work is your whole life, and nothing else.”

    Daniel wasn't prepared for this.

     


     

    Matthew knew it’d been coming. He saw it coming since the beginning.

    For most of his visits, Matthew put a lot of effort to keep Alex out of trouble, or to be precise, to prevent him from causing a disaster, by keeping him away from MACUSA, because he was a real-life trouble maker. Alex Stagharte was a man full of energy, probably the most hyperactive person he’d ever known. He was like a ball of energy, and a bunny as he liked to hop around the place. He couldn’t stay still like a grown man. He needed to occupy himself with something, anything.

    His suspicion began to stir since the second time Alex asked him if he could tag along to work. He said there was something interesting that he needed to explore further, something about the interior, and people? Alex was never interested in people, for Merlin’s sake. He knew him for almost 10 years and one fact he was sure about Alex was that he was awkward with people, and he wasn’t interested in examining any of them.

    So, why now?

    Matthew was quite confident in his auror skills, even if he wasn’t the best auror in the department, but still had a very good sight. He’d seen it in Alex’s eyes when they met his boss: the one and only Director Daniel Kang. Normally, people would be scared to death when they met Daniel. He was strict and intimidating, the opposite to friendly. Alex, on the other hand, had been captured and interrogated by Daniel twice in a row but had still casually talked to him. Matthew swore in his head when he saw Alex smile. The brunette must have an interest in his boss.

    Alex, fortunately, was asked to help with some of their cases. He also got to work on the field and went to the scene to inspect anything that might involve creatures, and whatsoever Kang needed him to. Much to his surprise, after three months of his occasional consult, Madam President eventually offered Alex a permanent spot at MACUSA as a magical creature specialist. They even offered him accommodations, a small apartment in the wizard and witch community in central New York. Despite the disarrays and illegal behaviors had occurred during his presence, Alex had done his job remarkably.

    Side note: The Auror Department had a lot of fun messing around with Alex, except the one and only Daniel Kang, considering thousands of rules Alex had broken for the record of time.

    That was why Daniel was with Alex most of the time to make sure the magizoologist was well-behaved. Or it was the other reason, Matthew thought.

    “You know, Matt. I think it was the other one.” Jonas, his legilimens brother, commented, breaking silent in their apartment. It seemed lonelier without Alex.

    “You think so?” Matthew questioned as he was setting up their table. Jonas mischievous smirked filled up his face.

    “Uh huh, yup. At least for Alex.” He waved his wand and all today’s dinner was on their dishes, ready to be eaten.

    “How so?” Damn his brother’s legilimency. He’d always be the one who knew first.

    “Well, Matty. We’ve both known Alex for almost 10 years, and we don’t need my legilimency to know that he loves danger. He likes it when adrenaline hits him, and all the excitement from them.” Matthew rolled his eyes.

    “I know that already. How’s this relate to Mr. Kang?”

    “What we may not know is that he’s a wild fire, Matt. He doesn’t like people not because he’s awkward, but people easily bores him. People aren't as honest and primal as animals. When he’s with creatures he feels like he could burn all of his hyperactive energy.” Jonas casually said as he buttered his bread, so did Matthew while he carefully listened to his brother.

    “Mr. Kang, though, is a caged beast, waiting for his release, and Alex feels up to the challenge.”

    “Mercy Lewis!” He knew it was coming! But he was still shocked that it was confirmed.

    “I am frequently tortured by Alex’s thought about Mr. Kang, Matt. He always thinks of how he could rip off Daniel’s serious and composed director masks, and make a mess of him.” Jonas whine and Matthew winced at the thought.

    “Also, Alex is...pretty desperate. You could see his body language…”

    “No. No, Jonas, no. Don’t tell me that. Too much information already.”

    “…Alex wants it with Mr. Kang, so so badly!” Jonas shrieked.

    “HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO LOOK AT MR. KANG’S EYES TOMORROW?!”

     


     

    Daniel saw it coming, too.

    He was 40-year-old man who had divorced twice, of course he knew. The way Alex naturally flirted with him. He could tell that it was truly sincere, he was flirty in nature, he just showed it when he wanted to. Alex was being Alex, unceremoniously walking into his personal office to discuss about their new case. He refused to sit on his guest’s chair, leaning towards him with his butt against the edge of Daniel’s antique wooden desk, so that he had to look up from his paperwork to looked at Alex’s face.

    It was something about the brunette’s posture; if he was lanky and slouching, it wasn’t from shyness or an attempt to be invisible, it was his casual lazy pose. Then, when he was with Daniel, his posture was a rather confident, elegant, and almost flirtatious. Just a little head tilting, baring his slender smooth neck. Lips biting, licking, bruising as if he was swimming in thoughts. Sweet honey orbs, gazed darkened as he eyed him through his lashes. The way he smiled, or smirked. It was obvious enough to be noticed but not too much to be annoyed, far from it, Daniel was intrigued by it.

    It was something about his hyperactive character. One minute he was talking to him at his desk, and next minute he was at his bookshelves, took some of his forgotten books and asked if he could borrow them. Once Daniel led them back to the topic they were discussing, Alex tried to off the topic by asking what he had for lunch, making Daniel frustrated. The more he met Alex, the more younger man tried to initiate a general conversation. He should be annoyed, but frankly, Daniel wasn’t, for the first time in his boring life. Alex was rather a pleasant companion.

    Alex invited himself to join Daniel for lunch the next day, and every day after that, said he needed to get out of his world sometimes and Daniel was the best candidate for his lunch mate because he didn’t question anything. Whereas, Alex was the one who started asking.

    “So, what do you do in your free time?” Alex munched on his chicken turkey sandwich while Daniel forked his corned beef pasta he bought from his favorite restaurant. He ate with his elite etiquette, he always did.

    “I work.” He answered halfheartedly. The magizoologist snorted, talked with his mouth full.

    “Ridiculous! Come on, Mr. Kang. There must be something you do when you aren’t working.” Daniel eyed him with slight disgust as he saw some of breadcrumbs fall from his mouth. Alex mumbled an apology and wiped his mouth.

    “When I don’t work I sleep. I told you, I have lots to do in a day.” Alex shook his head and filled his mouth with one last chunk of his sandwich.

    “What’s the point of having subordinates when they can’t help you? You know, I’ve been here for almost 6 months and I think you're overworked.” Alex pointed out and received an offended glare from the older man.

    “All of your aurors said they want you to enjoy your life more. Let them do some tasks for you, Mr. Kang.” The brunette said gently, eyes soft and worry.

    “It’s none of your business.”

    “Go out with me tonight?” The director choked on his pasta, taken aback by Alex’s request.

    “W-What?” Alex sighed out loud, propped his elbow on the table, chin on his palm. His brown eyes stern in determination as he continued.

    “Let’s do something fun. Have a couple drinks with me. I liked that night, you know? At the pub?” His voice was smooth, and Daniel shivered at longing gaze Alex was giving him.

    “I’m not—”

    “Please?” Alex pleaded and Daniel sighed. Such a stubborn little one.

    “Just one drink, alright?” Alex’s smile was brighter than the sun, showing his cute front teeth. Daniel internally groaned as he felt warmth radiate in his chest. His heart was beating fast. Daniel felt it coming, and it was too fast for his old self to be prepared.

He, for the first time in his old boring life, was attracted to someone.
    It was nothing Daniel expected, well, he should’ve been used to Alex Stagharte already. He was an antonym of predictable, or orderly. He knew he was being fooled in getting out of his office, but he willing to try it anyways. Alex brought him to a secluded restaurant that he never knew existed, and they were thankfully the only customers at that time. Daniel tried to imagine that this wasn’t a date, but a nice dinner with a very pleasant conversation that didn’t involve work, and a glass of wine at a very lovely restaurant all for themselves, was definitely a date.

    His very first date.

    Daniel had gone to high social gatherings, or the Ministry banquets, all his life. He never once went on a date with his wife, because he considered it as duty, something he obliged to get it done. When he was with his wife, he talked about work, not something personal, and mostly ended up just listened to her babbling about her boring days, which consisted of gossiping or her dramas. It was nothing like this with Alex.

    Unlike their meeting at his personal office, Alex was sure that Daniel’s attention was only on him here, so Alex didn’t push him to reveal about himself or his past. He knew Daniel was uncomfortable talking about his boring life and decided to lead the conversation himself. Alex made sure that Daniel enjoyed his stories of his travels around this big world: what did he find when he visited Egypt, what kind of adventure he went on in order to find a herd of mooncalf, or what made Alex became so Alex. He brought Daniel with him in his mind, wandered through the world together, made him see what he’d seen through words. Daniel was surprised that he wasn’t at least bored as time flied. One of the waiters told them the restaurant was closing up.

    Their dinner was pleasant, perhaps the best dinner the director had in months. They continued their conversation as the two walked closely side by side on the street; it was already late so there were a few people around. The chilled air of late night of mid-September crept around them and Alex was tightly wrapped his mauve coat, his chocolate hair fluffed up against the cold wind. Under the moonlight like this, his brown eyes were still as bright as stars, soft round cheeks flushed deep red with alcohol, thin lips parted, looked tempting. The older man’s breath hitched.

Alex was beautiful like this.

And Daniel was scared, deep down the bottom of his heart.

    “Today was a date, you know, Mr. Kang?” Alex confessed shyly, voice small but in this peaceful night, he heard it crystal clear. Daniel cleared his throat a little, wouldn’t dare to answer with hoarse voice.

    “I’m aware.” He looked farther ahead them when Alex paused to stare at him.

    “I am forty, Alex. I know this was a date even if I never had one.”

    “W-What?” Alex gaped in disbelief. He walked faster until he was standing in front, facing the older man. His beautiful eyes examined his expression to assure his statement.

    “What’s surprising, ‘I am forty’ or ‘I never had a date’?” Because of four glasses of wine he had previously, it was easier to joke. Daniel preferred thinking that way, not because it was Alex who finally evoked his humorous side.

    “Perhaps both? Considering that you’re a workaholic and live under quite a large amount of stress all the time, you look younger than most people around your age.” Alex commented, walking backward as Daniel started walking forward. The dark-haired man hummed, pleased at the compliment. It was a relief when Alex seemed to brush the ‘never had a date’ topic off.

    “Sorry to tell you that I turned forty the day I first met you.”

    “How romantic.” Alex teased with a smirk and Daniel’s heart skipped a beat.

    “And I would very much want to go on a date with you again, Mr. Kang.”

    Daniel felt it coming, and it was too fast for him to be readied for his recently awaken impulsiveness when he closed the space between them, and leaned down to captured Alex’s lips. His lips were soft like marshmallow, warm like summer and Daniel felt the sparks prickled on his skin from head to toe. He started to panic when Alex kissed back with much more force but didn’t push further, just a press of lips. They pulled back after few seconds, eyes locked into each other. It was a simple, innocent kiss but was certainly the best kiss of his life, so far.

    “Can I call you by your first name? Daniel?”

    “Yes, I would love to.”

     


     

    Alex was getting more and more frustrated and he needed to do something about it. Daniel and he were in the ‘more than friends but not yet lovers’ stage for almost three months, Merlin’s beard! Everyone in the department must have known by now that they were seeing each other. They all could see it from the change of the one and only Daniel Kang.

    He was a little less grumpy, his eyes were softer, although it was when he looked at Alex only. He was still a workaholic and went to work at six in the morning and left around two the next day. However, there were times he left earlier to have a date with the magizoologist. Their dates always the same: a nice lunch or dinner at different places with a pleasant conversation and a small peck on the lips at the end.

    It was very sweet and romantic, Alex wasn’t going to complain. The thing was, it wasn’t going anywhere; there was no progression. Daniel didn’t give any sign that he wanted Alex to step up the game; he was always reserved and composed. He also refused his invitation to stay the night at Alex’s place and Alex felt offended a little. As a matter of fact, Alex wouldn’t dare to ask if Daniel would like to establish a serious romantic relationship with him either, even if he wanted to, so badly. This frustrated Alex immensely. Maybe their feelings weren’t mutual? Maybe he thought Alex was messing around and not serious enough? Alex found himself wondering when his thoughts weren't occupied with his creatures. He used to think about them a lot, actually.

    This wasn’t quite like himself.

    Alex Stagharte had never hesitated to do something that felt so right.

    Daniel Kang wasn’t like anyone he’d met before. He was in grief, and he was lonely. Alex wanted to help, to love him, to show him this big world. Daniel Kang was corked up, his wall was high and hard to break. Most people would’ve lost their patience before the wall even began to crack. But Alex wasn’t most people, he was the only one like him.

    Daniel was handsome, beautiful even. He was the most beautiful creature Alex had ever met. But if one looked through his perfect image, nice clothes, his statuses, or his power, Daniel Kang was vulnerable. Alex wanted to show him how precious he was and wanted to erase his bad memories, or whatever drab ideas he had about life—love.

    “Oh Alex…brother.” Jonas must’ve heard his wandering thoughts, he cooed, sympathized. Alex snapped out of his head to give him a knowing look.

    “You should talk to him, Alex. As far as I know, it isn't like what you thought.” Alex snorted as he sipped his tea and took a big bite of Niffler chocolate danish from Kowalski’s. Today was one of those days when Daniel had to attend business lunch with Madam President.

    “I guess so. Paranoid like an old man he is.” The brunette wryly shrugged. Jonas gave him an encouraged smile as they walked back to MACUSA, he brought his brother some pastries too. Matthew was quite busy recently as he was responsible for their new case.

    “Has he asked you to be his partner to our annual New Year party?” Jonas chirped excitedly. He just wanted to change to merrier topics despite knowing the answer already. He heard Alex’s happy thoughts yesterday, but he wasn’t going to tell him that he thought too loud.

    “He has. So, I need your help with the shopping. I’m aware that my taste in fashion is odd, and I don’t want to look like the very boring Alex Stagharte.” Alex sassed, a smirked tugged at the corner of his curve lips. Black-haired man squealed in delight and nodded aggressively as a yes.

    “Ooh, I’m excited already, Alex! You want to look special for your date! How sweet!” He put his hand over his mouth to suppressed an excited squeal that then burst out again. Alex chuckled as his cuteness, Sebastian was really a lucky man.

    “Yes, Joe. We get to celebrate on New Year’s eve once a year. It was surely a special day.” Jonas giggled like a teenager and adjusted his hat on top of his head because it tipped off a little from his excitement.

    “No, brother. I meant, you want to impress Director Kang.”

    “Well…technically, yes?”

    “Then you’re safe with me. I’ll make sure you’ll look stunning!”

Alex Stagharte never thought there would be the day when he was nervous, like, really nervous. He was confident half an hour ago when he looked at himself at the mirror inside the Hendrickson’s apartment, much to his relieved, Jonas did a perfect job on dressing him up for MACUSA’s annual party. He felt strange, as his hair was nicely brushed back and styled, showing a parts his forehead. Jonas insisted to leave it natural yet well cooperated and looked healthier—it made him look more attractive this way.

    He took a deep breath before walking into the Woolworth building. He noted the way people regarded him, their eyes wide and gawking. He heard them gossiping, whispering either compliments or insults, Alex took that his success in transforming for special occasion. Nevertheless, the only opinion that mattered was Daniel’s who, as usual, had stayed in his personal office working until the last minute. He said he had to finish something before the event started, and that he and his aurors were on duty tonight as some important people would be attending the party, so they needed to stay on guard to prevent any serious trouble. Fair enough, Alex thought.

    Still, Alex hoped that Daniel would be able to spend some quality time with him.

    “Look who’s here! MACUSA’s sweetheart!” A voice exclaimed, that must be Churchill, the second Alex walked in the conference hall that magically transformed into free space for cocktail party. Up in the ceiling was decorated with candle light, dark night skies and sparkling stars, there’s also snow falling. It made him think of the days in Hogwarts. There was jazz performing, food and drinks served and everyone dressed up beautifully, socializing casually and smoothly, unlikely when they were at work. Alex took off his mauve coat, handling it to an elf which eagerly hung it for him.



    “Mercy Lewis!” Someone gasped. Alex smiled as he turned toward a group of auror who standing near the entrance. They all appeared stunned, eyeing at Alex from head to toe.

    
“Good evening. I hope I’m not too late?” For Merlin’s sake, their stares wouldn’t help with his nervousness, they stared so much that Alex started to wonder if anything was wrong with his clothes.
 


    “Ugh…?” Alex groaned, standing stiff and awkward. The aurors snapped out of daze and tried to make up the mood. They came closer around as they complimented him.

    “It’s not like what you thought Stagharte! You look gorgeous!” Eisenberg said, and the other aurors nodded eagerly. Alex blushed as his brown eyes carefully looked around and spotted Matthew and Marilyn, taking a swig of giggle water then burst out loud laughing together.

    “Would you excuse me? I’ll talk to you guys later?” Alex sweetly smiled at the aurors as he passed his way toward Matthew, oblivious to their swooning.


    “Hey Alex! I see Jonas and you had a really good time. You look...special.” The dark-haired man gave him a big smile, and Alex returned it.



    “You look great too, Matthew. Who said aurors dressed boring and serious, huh?” Alex smirked, brows quirked playfully. Matthew chuckled, then elbowed him and tilted his head to the entrance direction.

    “Save that for your date, Alexander.” Alex looked over the director as the door opened for the newcomer. Tall, strong figure walked into the warm light of the party and Alex felt his knee weak at the first glimpse of Daniel Kang in tuxedo.



    His expression was serious and had a subtle hint of exhaustion, but it was immediately masked when he greeted his menaces and some other people nearby. Daniel adjusted his platinum gold scorpion cufflinks as he gracefully walked inside, eyes scanned through the crowded, looking for something suspicious. He was mentally relieved as he sensed nothing, for now, as he needed to find his date and one strong drink first.



    “Daniel! I thought you would come much later.” The voice rang his bell and Daniel turned to meet the source of such an angelic voice. His stern eyes softened at the sight of Alex Stagharte, looking beautifully gorgeous, like an angel before him. His face soft and glowing young under warm lights. His hair was so nice and fluffy, well styled and less messy. He dressed in a semi transparent pearly dress shirt with frills at high collar and sleeves, that looked even more dreamy on his oh-so-smooth pale skin. His suit was combination of maroon and midnight blue plaid, tailor-made that it hugged his body’s curve perfectly. Characterized with his preference of a bow tie, a lighter shade of blue, he looked so delicate, the color making his eyes pop out even more.

    

“I…I hope I didn’t keep you waiting for long. Something unexpected came up.” Daniel stuttered a little, still dazed by Alex’s beauty.

    “It quite alright, I just arrived.” The smaller man shook his head, biting his lip as if to stop himself from moaning out loud. Daniel in a tuxedo was something MACUSA no—America should have glorified. Just a simple white wrinkle-free pintuck shirt, black bow tie, darkest shade of black jacket and pants with perfect pattern and cutting, hugging nicely along broad firm body. His limbs long and elegant.



    “You look…gorgeous, Daniel.”



    “Same as yourself, Alex.”

Alex bowed his head to hide his blushes on the apple of his cheeks, hand fidgeted with the frill at his sleeves. Any compliment didn’t as matter as one from Daniel. Damn it, Alex wasn’t used to being this embarrassed at compliment from someone, but anything could happen if it was Daniel. He was extremely head over heels for this tense and grumpy auror.

    The music in the background faded out as Seraphina Picquery walked up the stage. She welcomed everyone, did a short but profound speech about things that happen in this year, appreciation to her co-workers who did their best job for wizarding community, and blessed them a better and happier New Year. The guests clapped their hands in response, some of aurors whistling as the Madam President was asked for a dance by the president of Councils of Magic from Argentina. The band resumed their plays.

    

“Jonas told me that every year, you have to dance with Madam President.” Alex noted over the rim of his champagne glass. His heart skipped as he felt warm rough hand of Daniel tentatively touched his. Even from a small touch of hands, Alex felt weak already. He clasped their hands together, fingers loosely intertwined. The older man eyed him, offered a gentle smile.

    

“Would you do me the honor of dancing with me, Alex?”



    Alex said yes, a little breathless, and Daniel gently led them to the center of dance floor to join others. They bowed to each other, and the cheering and whistling became louder and louder, then completely muted in Alex’s head when Daniel held him close, chest to chest, hand in hand in the perfect dancing position. Their eyes locked as Daniel led their first step to another, performed beautiful movement as they moved in sync, legs harmonized.

    

Alex felt his heart swelled with love, and happiness. He would’ve floated around by now if it wasn’t a firm grip around his back to pin him down. Daniel’s step was traditional, almost boring as they swung back and forth over and over, but Alex didn’t care—He came to the conclusion that Daniel never danced socially. He loved him, and Alex would love to bring him the world. He looked into the older man eyes, seeking hopefully for any sign, anything to let him progress their relationship. He saw it in his eyes: Daniel loved him, but he hesitated to establish.



    Daniel noticed something was off, he lowered both of his hands to just held Alex in his warm embrace, caressed lower part of his leaned back. This was much better, Alex contented, arms laid over each side of the director’s shoulders.



    “What are you thinking?” He asked Alex with whispering deep smooth voice, and Alex leaned closer to listened clearer. The brunette hummed, rested his head on broad shoulder, sniffed the alluring scent of Daniel’s cologne, almost nosed at his neck but he knew better not to. Daniel took this chance took a whiff of Alex’s freshly washed hair, it smelled heavenly. His long fingers played at the chocolate curls.

    

“I’m thinking about you? Mostly you and me.”

    

“Tell me.”

    

“I’m thinking about us.”

    He felt Daniel tenses, but Alex wasn’t planning to drop the topic, not anymore. The song they were dancing to came to the end and the hall was filled with laughter and chatting. Alex mumbled against his neck, asked if they could slip away from the party for a moment, to talk. The older man resigned, eyes filled with hesitation and fear.



    They excused themselves to the balcony, casted a warming spell because it was freezing outside and snow had been falling since late afternoon. Alex already gulped a full glass of champagne because he needed to loosen up a bit to talk through this without crying in desperation. Daniel had two in a row, for Merlin’s sake. Now they felt warm and fuzzy, another glass in their hand, filled to the brim.



    “I…How to start this? Um…” Alex fidgeted under Daniel’s nervous gaze. He met his eyes, holding for a second and then averted to look at the snowy scenery before them.

    “We’ve known each other for almost nine months now, and I think for these past three months…you and I were seeing each other?” Brown eyes shot up, seeking for Daniel’s once again to read his expression. Damn his reserved and composed director pose, he hated that most of the time.

Daniel Kang, in his head, was panicking.

    

“I-I…Do you like me, like the way I do?” Alex’s voice was hoarse and Daniel’s chest clenched painfully because how vulnerable he sounded. He pressed his lips into thin line as his deep brown eyes squinted at his own drink. He knew that his paranoia and stoicism made Alex uncomfortable, but he hadn’t had the courage to talk about it either.

    

“Of course I do, Alex, I really do.” The director confessed, surprised that it came out easier than he would’ve thought. Alex cocked his head to look better at Daniel, gaping as he tried to respond but nothing came out of his mouth, couldn’t help but blushing a little. He waited for Daniel to finish his explanation.



    “I just…okay, I’m paranoid.” Daniel felt very much ashamed to admit something so miserable in front of someone much younger. He was a perfectionist, and when he realized he couldn’t even control his voice like right now was extremely self-destructive. He embarrassingly searched for Alex’s honey orbs, and surprised that he looked back with adoration, small smile on his kissable lips, encouraging him to continued.



    “I don’t know how much you know about my past, from everyone else, like—Mr. Hendrickson.” Alex snorted and shook his head.

    “I’ve never dug into your personal life, unless you told me yourself.” The older man was relieved for a moment but the paranoia was back again. He cleared his throat.

    

“I slipped before that I’d never gone on a date before. It was a half-truth, because I have married twice.” The brunette hummed as he sipped his champagne, interested.

    “It’s because of my pureblood family, high society sort of thing. I was their only son. They needed a pureblood descendant, and as you know I am a workaholic. I don’t care about pursuing a perfect spouse, let alone a lover, so my parents arranged my marriage. I was twenty-three that year.” He took a big gulp, feeling strange to finally reveal the story to someone.

    

“We didn’t love each other, we didn’t even meet before the wedding. It was horrible, she was needy, attention seeking, and I was an utterly terrible husband that displeased her.” Alex leaned closer to the older man and placed Daniel’s long limb upon his shoulder so they could cuddle through the story. Their hearts were beating fast at the warm, comfortable feeling of love in their chests. Daniel felt at ease. He could do this, to tell Alex what was stuck in his mind and what made him scared.



    “All I did was work, and she did nothing but whined about everything. I felt sorry for her because I, too, did nothing to make her happy as a husband, or even a friend. We divorced shortly. My parents insisted on repeating it and they arranged me another a year after.” He sighed as thumb absentmindedly rubbed a spot on Alex's shoulder. Alex’s face nuzzled against heated neck, happy to be surrounded by the alluring scent of Daniel.



    “Honestly, my second marriage was nicer. She was understanding, and her cooking was delicious. She knew how hard it could be as a junior auror, and she gave me absolute support. It seemed quite good actually, I almost opened up to her, I might’ve one day. However, I didn’t have any attraction for her: The effort to maintain our married life was asymmetrical since the beginning. I later found that she was cheating with another guy who was her childhood best friend. It was disappointing, but I was more than happy to divorce. My parents finally left me in peace with my beloved paperwork.” Alex chuckled, a huff of hot breath poured over his neck and Daniel shivered a little.

    

“For all my forty years of life, I’ve never felt attracted to someone before, it freaked me out quite a lot when it happened. I proved that I’m incapability to maintain a relationship, even it was arranged. I don’t…take care of people. I don’t know what to do when it comes to a healthy relationship. I don’t have a slight idea how all these things work. I’m afraid I’d let you down. I’m afraid…that I can’t keep you, and the thought of you leaving is horrified. I’m sorry that I was paranoid.” Daniel felt bare, all of his darkest flaws exposed to Alex within minutes. His weakness and his actual imperfection made him miserable.



    “You heartless workaholic arse.” Alex wryly retorted.

    

“Not anymore.”

    

“I told you I’m a workaholic too. I’m capable of taking care of my hyperactive arse. I don’t know what makes a healthy relationship because I’ve never been in any too. But, we are not arranged by anyone but fate and so far so good, right? People might look at you because you’re so powerful, handsome, and perfect in every way.” Alex stepped back a little to facing the director. Palm cupped his jaw and tilted up, caressed his cheek until Daniel melted under Alex’s touch. The beautiful honey orbs were strong and determine, just like the way Daniel fell hard for.

    

“But I like you because you’re not. And we need each other, Daniel.”

    It was the first time that Alex kissed him hard, and Daniel let him deepen into smooth heated kiss. Alex sucked his bottom lips and their tongues licked against each other. Hand in the director’s silvery-dark hair to keep him close, tugged it gently and the Briton swallowed his moan. Alex kissed him until they were both lax and panting for oxygen, leaving their lips glistened with saliva and puffy until his menaces whooped when they finally went back to the party. Daniel mentally promised to double their paperwork next year.

     


     

    Things started to get to its best and Daniel was more than happy about it. He was so in love, and Alex made sure that he still felt the same every day. Alex started to melt his cold heart and break through the wall with his messy, chaotic life. Daniel was used to his impulsiveness from working with him on the field already, not feeling as worried that Alex would get himself killed as before, he let the magizoologist having fun releasing his energy.

    

He invited Alex over his apartment and the look from him was priceless. He was gawking, eyes wider than an Occamy egg, so awkward in the middle of his perfect, clean and neat suite. It was in the best part of New York, and this floor was high enough to see the panoramic view of it. Alex kept his hands by his side, not trusting himself to touch anything or he might cause a disaster. It was well designed and stylish and had a nice combination of deep teal blue, light grey and antique mahogany furniture and black leather sofa. Everything screamed rich, everything fell into place and spotless like a house showroom. It scented like Daniel, his expensive soap, the comforter in his cloths, or the musky, pine-tree undertone cologne.



    “Now I know why you don’t want to get into my case ever again.” Alex amazed as he roamed inside, interested in everything. Daniel felt satisfaction bubbling in his chest because Alex seemed to like it, his only real personal haven.



    “I could tidy up my case a bit if that would make you come in. My babies wanted to meet their daddy.” The brunette walked back to the living area, sat down at the luxurious black armchair, back leaned comfortably and threw his long slender legs over the armrest.



    “That would be lovely. I’d love to meet your creatures to properly introduce myself, but your mess killed me alive.” He handed over a drink to Alex, one of the best brandy in his alcohol collection. Alex sipped and moaned at the burning taste.

    “Alright, alright. That can be arranged, you neat freak.” Alex muttered, smirked teasingly and Daniel, never bored with his sass personality, motioned him to sit on a couch.
    They sat comfortably leaning against each other, a blanket over their shoulders, cuddling, talking and drinking until they were tipsy. Alex, the confident little brat he was, started to get touchy, grabbing and groping here and there. Daniel gripped Alex’s body as they shared a passionate kiss with all teeth and tongue messing around leaving a trail of drool on his chin. Daniel tried to keep up with the brunette’s enthusiasm when Alex climbed over his lap and unbuttoned his black vest.

    Alex frustratingly grunted into their mouths as he pulled out his tie, took off his scorpion collar links, unbuttoned his shirt all while the same time he left open mouth kisses along the corner of his lips to the line of his jaw, hips grinded onto him in circular motions. It was heady and messy and Daniel couldn’t think straight anymore. Now all he could think of was the animalistic sound Alex was making when he satisfied as he touched his bare chest, liked the firmness against his hand. It was arousing and Daniel let himself sink into the libido.



    “Oh Merlin, you don’t know how much I’ve wanted this. With you.” Alex cried, mouthing at the older man’s collarbone and leaned up to captured his lips once again. Daniel let his hand slipped into the soft wild of brown curls and when he tugged it gently, Alex keened, eyes closed with pleasure.

    

“Should…should we move to… the bedroom?” Daniel meekly asked, he didn’t look so sure but Alex was more than ready to shag to care. He was tipsy and horny and he need Daniel inside him now. It’d been forever since he last had sex with an actual person.

    “Yes. Yes, please.” Alex whined eagerly and he got off Daniel’s lap and dragged the older man out of his sofa. Daniel seemed not quite functioning very well but he led them to his master bedroom.



    .

    .

    .

    .

    Let's cut it right here ??????





    TALK

    (๬บ๬ริ๫​เรอะ​ ​ไม่๬ริ๫๬้า หา​เอา​เอ๫๥่อน​เ๸้อ)


    ยาวมา๥​ใ๮่​ไหม 55555555 ยาว๬ริ๫ ๹อน​แ๹่๫๥็ว่ายาว ๹อนมานั่๫​แปล๥็ว่ายาว

    ๹อนล๫​แล้ว๹้อ๫​เ๨าะ​บรรทั๸​ใหม่๥็ว่ายาว ๬ะ​ร้อ๫

    ๬ริ๫ๆ​๨ร๹​เรื่อ๫นี้๨่อน๦้า๫​เหลื่อมล้ำ​๥ับ๯อ๫อู​และ​​แ๸​เนียล​ใน๨วาม​เป็น๬ริ๫มา๥ๆ​

    ​แ๹่๥็๨ิ๸ว่าน่า๬ะ​​เป็นมุมมอ๫​ใหม่ๆ​๸ี๨่ะ​สำ​หรับ๨ู่นี้

    ถ้าอ่าน​เ๬อ๨ำ​ผิ๸ his ​เป็น her ​ใ๸ๆ​ ๥็สามารถบอ๥​ไ๸้

    ​เ๸ิมที อย่า๫ที่รู้๥ัน Matthew ๥ับ Jonas ๨ือ Tina ​และ​ Queenie

    ส่วน Seraphina ​เรา๦อ๨๫บท​เ๸ิม


    ส่วน​เรื่อ๫๮ื่อ๥็รู้สึ๥ว่าล๫๹ัว๥ว่า​เ๥่าพอ๨ิ๸๮ื่อ​ใหม่​ให้๨่ะ​ ​และ​๮ื่อ​ให๱่มา๥ ๕๕๕๕

    Alexander Arphrodine Stagharte อ่านว่า อ​เล็๥๯าน​เ๸อร์ อาร์​โฟ๸ีน ส​แ๹็๥ฮาร์ท

    Arphrodine ๸ั๸​แปล๫มา๬า๥ Arphrodite ที่​เป็น​เทพี๨วาม๫าม ๨วามปราถนา ๨วามรั๥นะ​๨ะ​

    Stagharte ๨ือ ทั้๫สอ๫๨ำ​๨ือ​แปลว่า๥วา๫ทั้๫๨ู่๨่ะ​ Stag ๨ือ๥วา๫๹ัวผู้ hart ๨ือ๥วา๫ ​ในภาษา​เยอรมัน-อั๫๥ฤษ​โบรา๷๨่ะ​ ​แอบ​ไป๨้นมา ฮา ​เป็น๥วา๫๹ัวผู้ที่สวย​เ๯็๥๯ี่๨่ะ​ (หืม?)

    หวั๫ว่า๬ะ​๮อบ๥ันนะ​๨ะ​ ​และ​๦ออภัยถ้าอ่าน​เหนื่อย ๕๕๕๕๕

    รอ๨อม​เม้นทุ๥๨น ๬ุ้ฟ

    (c)                      Chess theme
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