4ⓐ ᴊaɪʜun

@⚣ l｡ jaijin ✘ [sh] The idea of them sharing a bedroom didn't bother Sehun at all, why would it? For them to share a bedroom was to be expected from the government and by fufilling those expectations, it would limit or even completely erase any doubts or suspicions. There was still the lingering worry in the back of his mind that were keeping him constantly aware of any possible situations that can lead to the end of their matching. Sehun was more than pleased with his current match due to their past history and the idea of having anyone else live with him now, made him feel uncomfortable. He never supported the actions of the government and society itself, after he saw the results in the form of his sisters death. Now that Jaijin faced the same danger so, it would be best if they acted like a true match and that meant sharing a bedroom like they did during their childhood. It brought fond memories and tough ones all the same, Sehun's life was difficult as a child but during those brief moments of peace it was bearable. His life was once again leaving him in a difficult position, but this time he will be prepared and hopefully, even create a small haven for them both here.

The childish action only caused a soft laugh to leave Sehun's lips, and a fond shake of his head, before also dropping the subject. He offered a small smile, leading the younger man around what was now their home. He made sure to lead him into every room and saved the bedroom for last for obvious reasons. The rooms were all equipped with all necessary furniture, plus available space for them to add anything they brought along or bought and even had a fully stocked kitchen for them to use. Over all, it was a nice home for them to live in but the idea that it was set up by the government made his skin itch and his mental state weary. The idea that they could possibly be watched was constantly on his mind, leaving him not other option but to make a mental note thoroughly look around the rooms for anything out of the norm. However, Sehun didn't voice his thoughts since he didn't want to worry Jaijin and simply showed him around, "The place is pretty standard and fully stocked in cases like the kitchen," he added before leading them to the final room.

Sehun had previoisly taken a hold of his own bags before leading the younger man around the house and now that they arrived in the bedroom, he placed his bags in a neutral area by the door. They had spent a significant amount of their lives separated so Jaijin could have new habits or even a preferance on a certain area of the bedroom. Sehun didn't dare assume, and instead looked around the room, having only previously briefly looked around. But quickly came to the conclusion that curtains needed to be added, as nice as the view maybe, he didn't feel quite comfortable with the idea of such large windows. Besides this factor, the bedroom had no other issues that he could see atleast. Sehun's gaze returned to Jaijin who had also taken the opportunity to observe their shared bedroom.

"The tour is over," Sehun confirmed, the house was small but more than enough for two people. He raised his eyebrows at the question as a small smile crossed his face, "No, I don't so feel free to pick whichever side you prefer." He answered honestly, before copying the younger man's actions by returning to his own luggage and picking out clothes to sleep in. Sehun's choice of neatly folded blue pants and a plain white shirt was easy enough that he found himself facing Jaijin once again. "I'm still a light sleeper and an early riser," He reminded before reluctantly adding an explanation to the new fact, "I have nightmares occasionally, so I would wake up earlier." He shrugged his shoulders and smiled sheepishly, since he genuinely was an insomniac most of the time. However, Sehun could function on minimal sleep and was relatively quiet during nightmares, allowing him to feel comforted by the fact that Jaijin would atleast not be distrubed.

"You can go ahead and use the bathroom, I'll change out here." Sehun gestured to the bathroom before turning away and digging through his carry on bag for the book that he would usually read during the night and his phone that had earbuds attached, another useful item for sleep. After making sure that Jaijin had gone ahead, he changed into his sleeping clothes with his necessary toiletries in hand and a book on top of his bag. Sehun felt fatigue in his body along with a faint sense of drowsiness, it had been a long and tiring day after all. It would take a while before they could establish a routine and they still had to talk about their present life; but that conversation could wait until the following morning.

@⚣ o｡ sehun ✘ When Sehun agreed that the two of them could share the bed Jaijin's shoulders sagged in relief. He hadn't been sure of what the other's answer would be, as although they'd often shared sleeping arrangements as children they still haven't talked until now. Familiarity even in the face of such distance made Jaijin feel more at home - comfortable, in the most simple term. Nodding his head to match Sehun's agreement Jaijin knew they had made the right choice, and not just because they'd be fine with sharing. If they were truly being watched - a suspicion that the younger just couldn't shake - it was best that they slept in the same place. Being in two different rooms would certainly raise red flags among the organization running all this, which could also jeopardize their decision to keep the match. That, or different consequences would arise, them being for worse or for better depending on how severe an offense this would be considered. Jaijin just hoped that with enough proper planning (and execution) both him and Sehun could remain relatively safe in their own little world created by the system.

"Well, I'd sleep on the couch anyways." Jaijin finished the discussion of sleep with that, jokingly sticking his tongue out for a moment and finishing as Sehun moved to stand with him. Glancing towards his luggage Jaijin thought it best to take it with him so he could place it in the bedroom like the older had guided. As he took hold of the handle he looked over the living room one last time, mapping it in his brain for future reference. "Sounds good," he replied, half-mumbling as his attention was directed back to Sehun. "Lead the way." Without hesitation he began to follow Sehun through the layout of the house - correction, (now) their house - continuing to take in and hold the information like he did with the living room. Every door led to someplace new, and while not necessarily exciting it did invoke some sense of curiosity within Jaijin. Some of the rooms didn't seem to hold a purpose besides places like the bedroom, bathroom or kitchen. Even the closet seemed out of place because he couldn't seem to think of anything they would put inside (though perhaps that's just because everything is still foreign to him).

As they finally entered the bedroom Jaijin saw that the bed was, in fact, quite large, enough for the both of them to sleep comfortably together. Jaijin was quick to place his suitcase against the wall near the door, not wanting to claim an area of the room without talking to Sehun first, but before that he also wanted to take a look around. Each side of the bed had a small table, complete with a lamp and something that looked oddly like a journal. The sheets were thin, and the same color as the pillows leaning against the wall. What he found most surprising was the floor to ceiling window that covered the entire left wall of the room. Though it faced mother nature (only some trees at that) Jaijin found it really left no room for complete privacy. Whisking away images of potential spies at the thought Jaijin turned back around to face Sehun, shrugging once with a small smile.

"Looks like the tour's over." he said, reaching up to rub at his arm before delving further. "Since it's late we should probably go to sleep now. Do you have, uh, any specific side you like to sleep on or something?" As he spoke Jaijin moved for his suitcase, ping it on the floor and beginning to dig around for a pair of pajamas. He'd just finish putting the rest of it away in the morning, seeing as how he's tired both physically and mentally from the earlier conversation he'd had with Sehun. "Any habits that I don't know about yet?" Standing up after finding what he needed Jaijin simply stood there holding the bundle of pants and a shirt in his hands. Though he was still plagued by many thoughts and questions, some memories of their childhood as well, he knew they could wait until the sun rose. Jaijin just hoped he'd have an easy enough time getting to sleep tonight.

@⚣ l｡ jaijin ✘ The matching system was believed to be a perfected and accurate, leaving no room for error when in this case it was clear that there was one. The decision to keep their current match would lead to struggles and eventual consequences that Sehun was more than prepared to face in Jaijin's stead. He was determined to not lose someone again, not when he is more than capable of keeping them safe in this case. There is plenty for them to deal with now that they both wanted the same thing, and there was the looming issue of the government and those overseeing this system. Sehun was genuinely concerned about how Jaijin would be impacted by the only possible outcome to this situation, but he would do his best to lessen the blow. The only way to do that is to completely solidify their match, and have others believe that their relationship was true so they wouldn't be separated. Sehun knew that their match results could have been much worse so he was reluctant to lose such a good opportunity, especially since he was close to Jaijin.

The response was completely true, since it would be a simple questionnaire, "You are probably right, so there's one less thing to worry ," Sehun conceded with a warm smile in response to Jaijin's smile. He nodded briefly, letting the other man look around the room since they had immediately talked after Jaijin arrived. Even though Sehun had been the one to pose the question, he honestly wouldn't mind sharing a bedroom and even less a bed. They had grown up together and had more than enough occassions where they slept in the same bed during their childhood, so he won't mind company. Their relationship hasn't changed at all after all this time, and sharing a bed would just be another aspect returning back to normal. Sehun smiled at Jaijin's response and nervous habits, "I thought the same as well, but I wanted to make sure you would be alright with that." He reassured, since he didn't want to be assume when they just reconnected but he wouldn't mind honestly. "Even if I didn't want to, I would not let you sleep on the couch," Sehun denied, before nodding his head at the following. "It is big enough for the both of us, so we can share the bedroom and bring our things there," He agreed, remembering his earlier tour of their new home. He had noticed the large bed along with the single bedroom and bathroom, after all they were expected to considering their current circumstances. Sehun would rather concentrate on the present for the moment, and allow them both to settle in while they reconnected as friends.

After Jaijin had stood, Sehun followed the suit and noticed his familiar behavior. The conversation had helped them both become more relaxed with their current circumstances and accommodations. He felt comfortable in their new home now that he knew who his match was, their previous conversation was enlightening and exhausting with the new issues presented. "That's a good idea, we can take a quick tour of the house before we go to bed since it's getting a bit late," Sehun agreed, also noticing the sun going down for the day to become night. They were officially going to become a match now, that would most likely become permanent and he didn't find himself even slightly bothered by the idea.

"We can talk about the rest tomorrow if you like, there is no rush honestly and first the tour," Sehun spoke softly, and leading the way since he had looked around before hand. He was going to cooperate with the matching system, knwoing they had no other option but actually finding himself less against the idea since he knew his match in this case. If the circumstances were different, he knew with no hesitation that he would have been defiant and denied the match as a whole, so he was grateful to have Jaijin by his side once again. "Lets begin," He diligently led Jaijin to the other rooms, while there were a limited amount of rooms, the rooms themselves were large which made up for it.

@⚣ o｡ sehun ✘ Jumping only in surprise as he felt a hand against his shoulder Jaijin slowly turned to face the other. It was through the contact - and maybe this is just his mind trying to be reassuring - that he was able to realize Sehun didn't mean any harm by the notion, for it was a wholly real concern. Jaijin couldn't keep pushing his worries to the side and hoping they wouldn't come back to bite him in the (which really has happened many times before). He managed a twitch of his lips, too mentally exhausted for a smile, and brought his own hand up to lay it over Sehun's. Squeezing once - for reassurance? a message? he doesn't really know - Jaijin then dropped the hand back into his lap and kept it there. It's better for them to focus on the here and now than dwell on the past or possible what-ifs. Jaijin thinks he's only realized now how fast pace this entire system is. You're thrown into a house with a stranger and expected to, well... He'd rather not think about it, other than the fact that he's still fortunate enough to find a partner in Sehun. Now, if only he was able to dispel all other worries, then they'd be set.

Jaijin knew that if they stayed together like they were matched the system would be watching them. Whoever was behind it would be waiting, and Jaijin didn't think they could ever deliver on such an impossible task. More questions arose, like if they would annul the match if they waited too long, or if someone would come to "check up on them." Shaking his head to himself at the thought Jaijin reached for the papers again, looking over the mistakes he'd checked and rechecked countless times. It would certainly be a struggle for them, but just being together with Sehun (most possibly just the fact that it /was/ Sehun) made Jaijin feel much safer than he would be with any stranger. He placed the papers back down, trying to let his mind drift to the next topic at hand so he wouldn't focus for too long on one thing. Jaijin wouldn't be any help if he kept fretting over it. The time would come if it was possible, and he'd have to be ready to face it, either by himself or with Sehun at his side. Even their barrier of years without speaking wouldn't be enough to stop them from working together. He was sure they could break it down.

"I think the survey will be the easy part," he said, finally responding with a much more stable voice than before. "Since all we have to do is answer the questions in a certain way. I think it'll be alright." Turning to face Sehun in full he managed a small smile this time. "Ah, right, living arrangements..." Jaijin didn't get a chance to look around the house as he'd stopped the moment he'd reached the living room, and realizing it now he glanced around, eyes leading to the hallway that trekked through the rest of the building. "I think it'd be fine to share the bed, don't you?" Looking back at Sehun, playing with his fingers out of habit, Jaijin shrugged his shoulders. "It might be a little uncomfortable at first, but we've done it before at sleepovers and stuff...only if you want to though! If you don't then I'll just sleep on the couch or something. I'd be fine with it, and you can go ahead and use the bed. Although," he paused momentarily, scratching the back of his head in thought. "It's probably big enough for two people." Jaijin doesn't want to admit that, deep down inside, he'd rather share the bed. Maybe it would give him some sense of security to have Sehun so close, for the both of them. One's guard is always down when sleeping.

Hesitating for only a moment Jaijin decided to stand up from the couch, stretching his arms above his head and finding himself much more comfortable than he was first walking into the house. While a thin stretch of nervousness still ran under his skin he was able to keep it at bay for the most part. "How about we decide after taking a closer look at the bedroom? I actually haven't seen the rest of the house like you have." As he finished speaking Jaijin glanced out the window, not having noticed how much time had already passed until he saw the position of the sun. It was getting later in the day, which meant the realization that this was actually happening finally settled in for him.

@⚣ l｡ jaijin ✘ After losing his younger sister, that time had been the hardest for Sehun, she had been such a big part of his life and she had even brought Jaijin into their small family. He had worked odd jobs and even did things he wasn't proud of but desperate enough to do them anyways. Any pride or innocence he had during his childhood was gone with all the actions he had to take to ensure his sister's survival. That's why when Sehun lost her, it hit him hard with no purpose in life and a sense of failure. But even with his loss, it was difficult for him to make the decision to leave since he knew Jaijin would still be here, so he tried to endure the pain until he couldn't anymore. The decision to leave had required him to leave without telling anyone, since he knew that if he did, he would be convinced to stay. Maybe the decision was the right one at first but now that it brought him back to Jaijin, Sehun could aleast forgive himself for that decision.

The notice that Sehun had been matched was one that he had been dreading, why would he agree with anything the government had planned? It was clear that the government had other reasons for this system and Sehun didn't want to be part of it but he had no other choice. Even with his negative opinions on the system, he couldn't dislike his partner without atleast meeting them first. It was a day filled with nervousness and anxiety that quickly left his body once he saw his matched partner. Sehun had never been happier to see his childhood friend happy and healthy, but above all, alive. His match was his closest friend, a person whom he could trust and even enjoyed being with. Jaijin was the last person he expected and yet he was happy with the results, they can be there for each other like when they were kids and be comfortable with the idea. Sehun would willingly accept this turn of events and accept this match, he was given the best opportunity to have a match where they could make decision together.

The question made Sehun frown regretfully before nodding his head, it was the only conclusion he could come to. The purpose of the matching system was to repopulate the world and in this case, Sehun was able to conclude that the errors refer to their inability to reproduce; defeating the purpose of their match. This was the only logical conclusion that was left, leaving Sehun concerned for Jaijin's safety and the possible repercussions of both their actions. But it doesn't mean that Sehun would leave Jaijin on his own, if anything he would do his best to prevent any action from the govenment. He frowned slightly again in concern as he watched his slouched figure, he hesitated before placing a hand on his shoulder and giving a firm squeeze of support. "I maybe wrong, you never know but that's the best we can do at the moment. If anything ever happens, let me know first before taking action." Sehun advised, he may not be able to do much to help but if he is left with no other option, his father maybe able to.

The thoughts currently filling Jaijin's head were almost visible to Sehun who could easily read his expression. He offered a warm smile of support before averting his eyes to give Jaijin the time he needed. He would by lying if he said he wanted to deny the match, since in this case, their best option was to remain matched and while the consequrnces were most likely costly, he doesn't have anything to lose - not anymore. Sehun genuinely thought that they would be better off together, safer even but Jaijin deserved the opportunity to choose someone else, and he would accept the results no matter what they were. Sehun turned his attention back to Jaijin, listening carefully before nodding, "I'm glad that we have similar thoughts on the matter." He offered another kind smile, "When the time comes for the survey, we'll have to answer it in a manner that reflects our opinions." There was a brief amount of hesitation before Sehun continued with a sheepish smile, "Now, all we need to do is decide our accommodations. I looked around and there seems to be only one bedroom, I didn't know if you would prefer to share or, I can stay out here."

@⚣ o｡ sehun ✘ Although Jaijin was sure they could spend hours trying to make up for what wrongs they did in the past he'd rather not focus on those. Instead, it was time for them to reconcile and put those events behind them. Start fresh and stitch up whatever they had left - and then some. Jaijin has momentary thoughts leading back to when Sehun had gone, remembering how /angry/ he'd been at first. However, that slowly melted away into sadness and then acceptance. He'd known Sehun like the back his hand - maybe even still does - and realized that he just needed to deal with his sister's death in his own way. Even after taking care of her for so long Jaijin doubts he was as stricken by it as Sehun was, considering how much he cared for her. No matter what he couldn't find it in himself to hold a grudge against the older. Besides, they were meeting again now, and who knows if that would have been possible if Sehun had stayed to wallow in his sorrow in the same town his little sister died in.

Brought back to the present as the other stood to retrieve his own papers Jaijin had a realization. He was lucky...so goddamn lucky to be paired with someone he actually knew, and even better one that was already aware of his "situation." Who knows what would have happened if he'd been with a stranger. Someone who'd want to see what he clearly doesn't have. A minor pang of leftover anxiety runs through the boy, something familiar as he'd experienced it daily in the days leading up to this moment. Jaijin couldn't be happier to have a match like Sehun, with whom he could be comfortable around. However, though this thought helped to put him at ease the nervousness returned in full force as Sehun offered his speculation on the matter.

"You think they know?" Jaijin mirrored, the notion having never crossed his mind until now. Though he doesn't know much of the government - preferring to stay out of that business - Jaijin didn't think they'd have enough resources to dig that deeply into someone's history. Did they think he could give them what he wanted? Assumed he hadn't gone through some sort of treatment to prevent 'it?' There's no way Jaijin could possibly meet their expectations, if Sehun's suspicions were correct. Just the thought was enough to send him reeling, the boy shifting to rest his head in his hands and his elbows on his knees. "I'll, yeah. Definitely gonna try and stay away." he muttered.

Given such a choice Jaijin was unsure of what to say. How could he just decide willy-nilly the fate of both him and Sehun? Especially Sehun, having already gone through so much. "I..." he trailed off, the words getting caught in his throat as he pondered long and hard. If he stayed and the government found out, why, the repercussions could be disastrous, but if he left (and this is Jaijin being selfish) to be paired with another man then who knows what would happen. Jaijin just felt safer being with Sehun, so why was he having such a tough time making a decision? "We could, keep it..." It seems his selfish side won.

@♂ l｡ jaijin A significant amount of time has passed since their childhood, and yet, Sehun found himself comfortable and relaxed in Jaijin's presence, almost like nothing has changed. The emotions he had always been able to hide away and mask perfectly, were picked up by Jaijin but this worked both ways. Sehun recognized the guilt in his eyes since they matched his own but the minuscule changes in his features all pointed to the same conclusion. There was nothing Sehun could say at this point because he had not yet found a solution for his own guilt, and learned to live with it but eventually, hoping that he gets the opportunity to make up for his mistakes. He had been both foolish and childish for running away from his problems, and leaving Jaijin when he had been the most helpful with his sister. Sehun had realized this too late and had been under the impression that Jaijin had passed away; until this fateful day. This match had originally been a concept he dreaded and unwillingly followed, but it had given him the chance to reunite with Jaijin, and correct his past errors. The past Sehun had runaway from, had returned and become part of his present and most likely his future; leaving no option but to make the best of it. The response from Jaijin was unsurprising with the awkwardness but Sehun caught the understanding and comfort offered, causing a kind smile to spread on his face. He inclined his head briefly in acknowledgement before speaking, "I left you in a tough place with the incorrect impressions and that was wrong of me, so let me atleast make up for my mistakes." Sehun usually wasn't this open with anyone but with Jaijin, it was easy and enabled him to make his final request, "If you ever need anything, always know that I will do my best to help, no matter what it is." The soft comment whispered beneath Jaijin's breath was all Sehun needed to know he was forgiven and that everything was okay, "I'm happy to hear that," he whispered back. The moment left as quickly as it came, with more pressing concerns needing their attention. Sehun listened intently and noticed the same errors that were on his own documents, briefly standing to retrieve the papers and placing them beside Jaijin's. "The errors on the documents are my primary concern. The purpose of this matching system is obvious, and the errors in our matching can only mean one thing in this case." Sehun spoke his thoughts with a small frown on his face, "I'm concerned that they know something about your situation or atleast have a suspicion, but why they bothered matching us then is my question." His old habit of bitting his lip resurfaced, millions of thoughts flowing through his head as he released a silent sigh, "There's nothing we can do about it at the present moment, so all we can do is prepare for whatever maybe the result of this but in the meantime, try to keep your distance from anyone part of the government or system. The less they know of our matching, the better." The genuine concern was seeping into his tone but he would do his best to lessen any danger; he did the same before with his sister and it was no different now. "The other stuff, we can resolve on our own. We need to decide if we want to keep this match and the decision will reflect in both our actions and habits: whether we cooperate, or reject the match." Sehun explained simply, glancing at Jaijin and offering a warm smile, letting him know that the decision for their future is in his hands and he would be alright with any decision made.

@♂ o｡ sehun At the offer of a chance to sit down Jaijin took it gratefully, leaving his luggage to the side of the doorway as he tentatively took a seat on the couch. While Sehun was definitely better at hiding his emotions Jaijin was still able to pick up the regret that settled beneath his skin. He felt guilty himself, because he was the current source of this emotion, and it made him realize that he was never there for Sehun either. Sometimes he thinks to himself that it's his fault he let Sehun run away. That he could have helped more if he at least tried to keep him in town. Alas, after his sister died it seemed like one thing after another went wrong until Jaijin looked back and Sehun was nowhere to be found. He should take this meeting as a blessing, a melancholy smile remaing on his features as the past melted into the present. Knowing already that he'd promise not to tell Jaijin simply nodded, making it his turn to listen intently as the other began to talk more. "I get it - I mean, well, you know what I mean..." Taking a deep breath Jaijin reached out and put a hand on Sehun's shoulder. "I don't hold it against you. I'm sure you had your own matters to deal with, and I still had my uncle so...no hard feelings." With an awkward pat and an equally as awkward smile he brought his hand back to his lap. Glancing out the window at a dreary skyline Jaijin shook his head. "There's nothing to rekindle. It's already there." he said, voice almost a whisper. Though the moment was somehow bittersweet - thankfully more sweet than bitter - Jaijin did agree that they had to switch to tbe more serious topic at hand. "To be honest, I'm not a hundred percent sure how to go about this. The papers..." he pauses, reaching to drag his luggage over and ping the pocket. Brandishing the match papers Jaijin brings them closer to Sehun. "They have all these, spaces. Errors? I though about asking my uncle, but I didn't want to attract attention so I kept it to myself. Do you think...there's a problem with this? No one's contacted us yet, so, I'm not really sure." Jaijin's worry was evident, even as he laid the papers out on the table to physically organize his thoughts, looking to Sehun afterwards. "There's other stuff too. Like, if they assume everything is fine we're gonna have to talk about how we'll live together, and fill out those surveys, and..." he trailed off, not really wanting to go any further.

@♂ l｡ jaijin The surprised reaction from Jaijin had told Sehun just how much him leaving had affected their relationship and how much Jaijin has been through. The pang of regret went through him once again and creating an apologetic smile on his face, knowing that this is his opportunity to make up for it. He has seen the struggles Jaijin had experienced and supported him whenever he was able to, but to confirm that he had continued to struggle with no one to to lean on, made Sehun doubt his decision to leave. However, Sehun had noticed his relaxed shoulders and posture, making him feel relieved to have atleast some trust from Jaijin - it was a start. "Why don't we sit?" Sehun offered, knowing that they still had topics to discuss and with some trust regained, it would be more comfortable between them now. He smiled kindly as he saw the nervousness grow again in the other man, but genuinely happy to hear that he has been well atleast. Sehun nodded along to explanation, relieved to hear that Jaijin was safe for the moment. "I'm glad that things worked out for you and no, I don't plan to tell anyone," he confirmed, noticing the shake in his voice. Again he smiled warmly to reassure the other man and for him to know that he could be trusted. Sehun bit his lip briefly before sighing softly, "I know I may not have your trust like before and that's fine - I completely understand since I shouldn't have left like that but I couldn't handle being there any longer, not after she died." While the explanation may not be sufficient, Jaijin deserved to hear atleast why he left even though that much was obvious. "The support I wasn't able to give you before because I left, I want to offer you now and I hope we can rekindle some of our friendship atleast." Sehun finished, offering another soft smile as he ignored his own occasional tone of regret and guilt. "Anyways, since we're matched, I think we need to decide how this will work because I honestly don't know what would be the best option for either of us." Sehun genuinely wanted to know Jaijin's opinion on the matter since he knew there was the pressure from the government looming over them and their safety to think about.

@♂ o｡ sehun Having expected a less-than-pleasant reaction Jaijin was almost a little surprised at the gentle tone of Sehun's voice, as well as the smile that accompanied his words when he worked up the courage to look at him again. Jaijin should have known it would be fine. The other had been there for every breakdown, every explanation and worry and achievement. At remembrance of these things the younger found himself melting into a more relaxed posture, lowering his arms to his sides while his lips twitched into a small, returned smile. While he did feel a little stupid upon the realization that Sehun had meant the question another way Jaijin was still happy to get reassurance out of the conversation. At least things wouldn't be (too) awkward around the house between them. "I am." he finally responded, flushing a bit and playing the the string coming off his shirt for something to expel the nervous energy. Mulling over Sehun's question in his head Jaijin felt a little guilty for the worry in his tone, making him want to explain quickly. "My uncle. He, uh, since he's a scientist he works for the government, and after my parents died I started living with him. They never had me registered as a citizen so he did it after he adopted me, and they - the government - trust him, you know? No one knows though - not even him. He always thought I was a boy, even as a baby. I don't really know why, but it seems to have worked out. I know you wouldn't tell anyone either..." There was a bit of shake to his voice, purely of emotion and not because he thought Sehun would /actually/ give him away. Jaijin was sure he wouldn't, considering how close they used to be.

@♂ l｡ jaijin The clear memories of Sehun's childhood included Jaijin's transition, and as child a couple of years older than Jaijin, Sehun was able to understand and accept with no questions asked. But to see Jaijin again after all those years, he looked different with maturity in his features instead of the baby fat all kids had. Jaijin looked more like himself and more comfortable in his own skin, leaving Sehun to feel instantly guilty for not being there for him. Once Jaijin stepped closer, he could see the visible changes in his face along with the change in his voice that was surprising but fitting. A small smile crossed his face because it was nice to see Jaijin as himself, "You look like you are doing well." A small feeling of regret crept inside of Sehun, but he quickly shoved the emotion away since it was him who left first, giving him no right to feel this way. However, the results of the match was completely unexpected and Sehun couldn't help his questions, because how did Jaijin even go through the process without being caught? The sudden nervous actions from Jaijin confused Sehun, but then he quickly identified the fear in his eyes, enabling him to understand. His expression went soft and he smiled in a comforting and kind manner, "That's not what I meant, I'm happy that I got to see you again especially after I left the way I did. But moreso because, you look comfortable, healthy and like yourself." Sehun smiled again, showing that he would support Jaijin and still continued to care about him, leading him to his actual questions. "What I meant was, how did you get through the process for the match? Does anyone know?" Worry seeped into Sehun's tone, he lost his younger sister and now that he knew he didn't lose Jaijin too, he would help in any way he can.

@♂ o｡ sehun As Sehun stood up Jaijin was jolted from his daze, hand falling from his suitcase as his eyes raked over the other in confusion. It'd been so long since they'd last seen each other... He still remembers a boyish face, not this man at least several inches taller than him. As he begins to remember - just as Sehun - Jaijin is quick to tamp down the memories. Gulping down any nervousness Jaijin also takes a step closer to the other. He wonders if he had Sehun start calling him Jaijin when they were kids, instead of by his given name, because he doesn't really remember. "It has been awhile..." he mirrored, also wondering if Sehun would notice the change in his voice. At his question Jaijin's mind takes a temporary pause. How is he supposed to answer that? Of course, it's a perfectly normal question considering what's been in the news lately. Jaijin just never thought he'd have to explain himself. "Well," he started, clasping his hands together in front of chest while looking around the room to avoid Sehun's eyes. Jaijin's never been very good with words. "I'd hope it's kind of, obvious? Since I'm here that means I'm registered as male, and my appearance might give it away too..." With each word Jaijin can't help the little tremble in his voice, because he realizes he's scared to be saying this. He's never cared for people like he did Sehun and his sister, and even though they haven't seen each other in years he knows he's scared of rejection.

@♂ l｡ jaijin The book on cryptography was interesting enough to hold Sehun's attention, distracting him from his current predicament and the person condemned to this life with him. But after two chapters worth of reading, Sehun heard the distinct sound of the door unlocking in the otherwise silent house. He placed his wooden bookmark in between the pages before placing the book on the table in front of him. He ran a hand through his hair out of nervous habit and faced the entrance of the living room, his face carefully masking any signs of anxiety before replying, "In here." The person however, that stepped inside the living room was completely unexpected. A person that Sehun never thought he would meet again, atleast not since the news came out of the last female dying. "Jaijin?" Sehun asked carefully, standing up from his place on the couch and moving slightly closer to properly see his match but not wanting to startle him. There had been moments in his life when he thought of returning to his hometown to simply check on his childhood friend but they had grown apart ever since his sister died, so he thought better of it. Now that he saw his match properly, it was obvious that this was his childhood friend but how did Jaijin end up here? The sudden reunion caused the memories of Sehun's childhood to come back but he quickly suppressed them, managing a faint smile before speaking, "It's been a while, Jaijin. But how did you, if you don't mind me asking . . . end up here?"

@♂ o｡ sehun Never had Jaijin expected to be matched in all his days of living. Then again, he wasn't registered as a true citizen until a few years ago. He should have seen this coming, and he supposes he'd just blocked it from his memories out of some negative emotion. Dithering about on the porch - honestly contemplating just bailing and returning to his uncle's home - he eventually worked up the courage to insert his key and unlock the door. Slowly opening it he walked inside, shutting it behind him without bothering to lock it back up. "Hello?" he called out, pulling his suitcase closer to himself as he shuffled through the hallway. Jaijin tried to distract himself with the interior, but found he could only focus on what ifs and questions of the future. There's no reason for him to be this anxious, but he just can't help it. He didn't even know who this person was, much less what they were going to... His thoughts stopped momentarily as he finally came across the opening to the living room, and there, sitting plain as day, was someone he never thought he'd see again.

@♂ l｡ jaijin The news of Sehun's successful matching had come with an address of the apartment he will be living in along with his partner. The temptation to decline was present, but he knew better than to refuse the instructions he was given and had packed his things before going to the given address. Now, that he was actually here, he briefly debated on what to do next but stopped himself from contemplating other options by opening the door. Sehun entered the room silently, locking the door behind himself once he realized he was the only one there. He took a quick tour of the apartment and came to the conclusion that there was only one bedroom. Sehun didn't place his bags in the bedroom, knowing better than to assume that his newly matched partner would agree to such conditions. It would be better for them to discuss their situation, Sehun decided as he placed his bags in the coner of the living room instead. He pulled out a book from one of his bags after making sure that the bags with his equipement were safe, and then took a seat in the living room to read, as he waited.