warmth - part 13
Title: Warmth
Pairings: Junsu/Yoochun, Changmin/Jaejoong/Yunho
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Somewhat vulgar language, weak graphic images
Genre: Romance, angst, science-fiction-ish
A/N: Because I love the response from the last chapter, I will relieve most of you with this.
Summary: One trip to the Old Forest sends Junsu and Changmin into another world full of mistakened myths and new realizations. A vampire's goal in life is to live for eternity and feed from the warmth of a human. If that is so, what is a werewolf's goal?
Previous: Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3 / Part 4 / Part 5 / Part 6 / Part 7 / Part 8 / Part 9 / Part 10 / Part 11 / Part 12
. : : . : : . : : .
Junsu stared at his hands in horror. Small trails of blood, his blood, dripped from his fingertips. Nothing could describe the terror that filled his chest as he quickly lifted his fingers back to his ears. He felt more blood touch his skin before he could pull back and look at it.
Junsu gasped but he couldn't hear it. The shaky vibration from his throat was all he could feel. When hands covered his own, he looked up at Yoochun in desperate hope. He felt words leave his lips. 'Y-yoochun, m-my ears...they're...they're bleeding!'
He watched his friend speak but that was it; he heard nothing. 'I can't hear you!' Junsu screamed though no noise reached his ears. Yoochun's face turned incredibly pale. His dark eyes widened as the earlier fury in his chocolate orbs was replaced by fear.
Junsu felt his throat tightening. 'I can't h-hear you...' he felt the words tremble as they left his lips. Suddenly, he was cold, unbearably cold. Junsu pulled away from Yoochun's hands and hugged his body as the wind blew fiercely against his shaking frame. He lowered his head and cried. This was just too much. He could hear nothing, not even the ocean waves crashing against lands, nor the wind raging around him. He felt impossibly alone with his fear as his only company.
Warm hands gently covered his ears. Startled, Junsu jumped away but Yoochun was carefully holding him place. The redhead looked up at the brunette in fright. Yoochun was saying something. What was he saying?!
Yoochun's lips moved in a very slow, smooth motion. 'Stay calm,' he said; his eyes were incredibly gentle despite the obvious worry and panic hidden within those dark depths. His lips moved again. 'Please stay still. Okay?'
Junsu's fear of silence was causing the confusion to frighten him more than it should have. He trembled against Yoochun's warm hands. Tears continued to leak from his eyes. Yoochun never looked away though. He held Junsu's gaze as the redhead felt a sudden warmth reach his ears. It felt as if the warmth seeped into his very mind and eventually throughout his body; a warm fire that spread into his soul.
Junsu saw the concentrated look on Yoochun. Never before has he seen his new friend so serious and determined. He seemed concentrated as if the warm fire spreading throughout Junsu’s veins came directly from his touch. The redhead felt his body sag as he relaxed against this warmth; he never wanted to be rid of it. Warm tendrils caressed every limb of his body; it was as if gentle fingers were touching a fresh wound. The fire was delicate as it warmed his body.
Junsu felt something wet trickle down the sides of his neck, but he ignored it. Slowly, his eyes closed and he fell forward. Yoochun caught him as if he expected such a reaction, allowing Junsu to rest against his body. His hands now held the other's back.
The fear slowly began to disappear. Junsu could smell the musky scent upon Yoochun's clothes, and he liked it. He noticed that the wind had died down to a gentle breeze. The sand beneath his legs was cold yet soft. Even the ocean’s vibrations felt calm as waves beat against the shore; a gentle lullaby to send to sleep. He relaxed against the strong body holding him in a strong grip. The warmth that was Yoochun was cradling him, telling him he was not alone.
At that moment when his mind drifted to a dreamless slumber, Junsu felt entirely and impossibly safe.
. : : . : : . : : .
He awoke when gentle fingers slid through his hair. Junsu cracked opened his eyes to see Yoochun peering at him with concern. Those inviting lips moved, but still Junsu heard nothing, causing another shiver of fear to shake his body.
Yoochun moved his mouth slowly, on purpose. ‘We are at the hospital,’ he gestured to the large building outside the car windows. ‘You need to be checked out.’
Junsu sat up and looked around. Cars parked along cars littered the parking lot. ‘Which hospital?’ Junsu asked, unsure if he spoke correctly or not.
Yoochun apparently understood. ‘East Gate. Let’s go.’ The brunette got out of the car, his car, and walked over to open Junsu’s door. The redhead immediately grabbed onto his friend’s elbow as a dull ringing sounded through his ears. Yoochun looked at Junsu with a mixture of pain and worry, but understanding shined against the evening sun. He led Junsu into the hospital, not letting the smaller of the two let go as he spoke with a few people. Junsu stuck right beside him, his knuckles turning a pale white because of the grip he had on Yoochun’s elbow. He stared at everyone within the hospital but heard nothing - not even the babies wailing or the TV broadcasting the news on the nearby wall. Only the dull ringing was a constant reminder that noise actually existed
Minutes later, Yoochun was leading Junsu to the waiting room. The redhead saw the guilty look on his friend’s face, but he somewhat reassured the other by giving him a small smile. He could wait despite all the fears terrorizing him. Yoochun didn’t seem to think so, but he remained beside Junsu nonetheless.
The redhead realized something and pulled out his cell phone. He accessed the ‘note’ options and began to type away on the keypad. This would be an easier way of communication for now.
He wrote a message and showed Yoochun.
Are you okay?
Yoochun grinned as he read the message. He took Junsu’s cell phone and typed a reply.
I am. Do your ears hurt right now?
Junsu shook his head, answering Yoochun’s question. The redhead took the cell phone and typed his own question.
What happened?
The dark look that crossed Yoochun’s face was terrifying. Junsu could never be able to describe the absolute fury and hate blazing with those chocolate eyes. Yoochun’s lips were set in a tight line as he typed back.
I think it was that lady vampire.
Junsu stared at Yoochun in shock. The brunette’s expression was still tight with fury, but he stared at his companion with guilt. ‘I’m sorry,’ those lips said.
Again, Junsu shook his head, this time furiously. He grabbed his cell phone and quickly typed another message.
You have nothing to be sorry for. That vampire has issues with me, not you…though now that she’s after Changmin’s friends, I’m worried that she might come for you next.
The redhead was confused by the sly smirk that formed on Yoochun’s face. He took the phone and wrote.
I highly doubt she will mess with me.
He saw Junsu’s demanding expression and wrote:
I’m her worst enemy.
Junsu, once again, furiously grabbed the phone away and typed a new message, relaying all his thoughts into a simple statement.
You knew vampires existed before I even told you.
Yoochun silence was his answer. Junsu’s chest tightened with an emotion he could not describe. The silence was killing him. He brought his fingers across the keypad and wrote:
Tell me what you know about them.
Yoochun gave Junsu a piercing stare and firmly shook his head. Before the redhead could ask more however, his friend looked up as if he had been called. Without another typed message, Yoochun pulled Junsu to his feet and led him into the check-up room.
Two hours later, they were waiting for the doctor to return with his diagnostic. Junsu sat nervously on the edge of the small bed; his fingers were fiddling with the edge of his jacket. The ringing was still there, irritating his ears and giving him a headache. Junsu just wanted to fall back on this bed and shut his eyes while he forced the ringing to stop. None of those seemed to be happening though.
Yoochun reached out and took one of Junsu’s shaking hands. The brief warmth was comforting.
When the doctor came in, Junsu waited in silence as he explained as much as he could to Yoochun. Since his friend was not family, the doctor could only be brief. Yoochun listened carefully as the doctor explained.
“From what I’ve seen on the X-rays, some of the hairs in Junsu’s ears have been fried completely. Like I explained before, everyone has these hairs to properly hear; the less hairs the more difficult it becomes to process sound. Luckily though, it was only a small area that was damaged. I presume that within a few days, Junsu’s hearing would return to normal.”
The relief that washed across Yoochun’s face gave Junsu’s a flicker of hope. Was it good news he was getting from the doctor?
“I have prescribed some pain medication in case his ears begin to hurt. Please have someone bring Junsu within the next four days to give him a final check-up. And also, refrain from any more loud noises from now on.” With that, the doctor rose to his feet; Yoochun followed suit. The doctor turned to Junsu and patted him on the shoulder, giving him an encouraging smile. Slowly he said, “You will be just fine” before he left the room.
Junsu turned to look at Yoochun with hope. The brunette smiled a relieved smile which caused some of the fear in the redhead’s body to dissolve into nothing. Yoochun took Junsu’s cell phone from his pocket and typed up a short explanation of what the doctor said. Overjoyed, Junsu smiled and wrapped his arms around his friend’s neck. Yoochun’s gentle hands held him close as relief washed over both their bodies.
Junsu murmured a quiet “thank you” before Yoochun pulled out of the parking lot that night.
. : : . : : . : : .
Changmin relaxed in the cool embrace of his lover. For once, Jaejoong had ceased his pampering and agreed to watch a movie with the youngest. The two sat upon the couch, both half-laying, half-sitting up against Yunho’s built frame. The darkness of the night had long ago washed the sky clean of its bright blue, leaving the moon and stars to sparkle dim light into the apartment.
The bright light from the TV screen was beginning to annoy Changmin. His eyes were drooping and his head felt heavy. Yunho’s fingers softly grazing the skin of his collarbone was not helping much either. If Changmin had to guess, he would say Jaejoong was already asleep. The angel had the perfect position between both his lovers, new and old.
Their movie had ended a half hour ago. Now they were watching a local, late-night drama. Changmin was bored of it, so he yawned.
“Go to sleep Changmin,” said Yunho in a quite, soothing voice. “We’ll wake you once Junsu returns.”
The thought of his closest friend nagged his mind. “He should be here by now,” he said hoarsely. “What time is it?”
“Ten minutes pass eleven,” came Jaejoong’s swift reply. Apparently no one was asleep at the moment. Reluctantly, Changmin pulled away from his lovers and sat up, stretching his long arms above his head before he got to his feet. His bruises no longer pained him. He lazily made his way into the kitchen and picked up his cell phone which he had left to charge before the movie had started. He unplugged the device and flipped it open.
No missed calls.
Changmin’s eyes narrowed with dismay. Usually Junsu would call if he was going to stay out so late.
There was a brief flash of light that hit the kitchen window, causing Changmin to squint. A small wave of relief came over him. ‘Good, he’s home’ he thought as he walked towards the front door. He opened the door just as he heard the engine being shut off. His eyes looked at the car which had taken his and Junsu’s usual parking space. The car wasn’t Junsu’s.
The unfamiliar car door opened and an unfamiliar figure got out. Changmin couldn’t make out this stranger’s features because of the artificial light coming from the lamppost hitting his back.
There was an unforgiving snarl that came from behind him before a hand seized his shoulder and yanked him back. Changmin gasped as Yunho stepped in front of him, shoving the youngest against Jaejoong who appeared suddenly from behind too. “Hey!” Changmin exclaimed; he didn’t like the sudden harsh treatment. “What was that for Yunho-”
“Jae, keep him inside.” The older one’s voice was made of pure steel and what he said sounded like an order. Changmin shivered from the intensity. He felt Jaejoong’s delicate hands beginning to pull him away from the door, and he was shocked from the strength that forced him to move. “Jaejoong, what’re you doing?” he demanded as he was pulled deeper into his own home. Moments later, Jaejoong had him sitting on his bed. An old, pained look filled the angel’s features as he whispered an apology before leaving the room and shutting the door behind him. When Changmin lunged for the doorknob, he found that he could not turn it an inch.
“Jaejoong!” Changmin hollered as he slammed his fist against the wooden structure, hindering his way outside. “Jaejoong, let me out! Why are you locking me in here?!”
Outside the door, Jaejoong murmured another apology before making his way back to the front entrance. The scent hit him full force and he felt a distasteful substance crawl up his throat. He stopped behind Yunho. The handsome man was not allowing another to pass by him.
Not even Junsu who stood frightfully before him could think about passing by. Beside the redhead stood another man with brown strands of hair and eyes the richest shade of chocolate one could ever muster. His hand was on Junsu’s shoulder, and the redhead wondered if that was for support or for protection.
‘Changmin thinks they’re vampires’ Junsu remembered suddenly. The usual pale forms of his friends never seemed so frightening before. ‘And Yoochun believes in vampires.’ Yunho was glaring at Yoochun with an intense expression filled with so much hate, anger, and depth that Junsu couldn’t help but scoot closer next to his friend. Yoochun took the hint and stepped in front of the redhead, not releasing his eyes from Yunho’s dangerous face.
No one spoke from what Junsu could tell. No lips moved, not even Yoochun’s frame twitched. The redhead locked eyes with the dark orbs peering from behind Yunho and felt his heart tighten. Only once has he seen such a sad, heart-wrenching expression on Jaejoong’s face, and seeing such a look once again caused a sudden guilt to fill his heart. After only a few more moments of the deadly staring contest did Jaejoong push his way past Yunho and stand before Junsu and Yoochun, a quizzical look upon his face.
The angel’s lips moved slowly, enough for Junsu to recognize a few words. Still, he couldn’t comprehend what Jaejoong was saying.
Yoochun did however. He carefully turned his eyes away from Yunho so he could look at Jaejoong’s delicate figure. “I am only returning Junsu to you,” he spoke firmly. “I also have something to say to you both, whether you desire to listen or not.”
“Why should we listen to you?” Yunho snapped; his eyes were seething as was his voice. His hand was gripping Jaejoong’s shoulder in a very protective manner.
“Stay calm, Yunho,” said Jaejoong in a tentative purr. He was trying to ease the current situation. “Let him speak.”
“I will not hear a word he says.”
Yoochun’s eyes narrowed as they once again locked onto Yunho. “Then don’t listen. I will speak to this one instead.”
Within half a second, Yunho had pulled Jaejoong away and lurched forward, eyes blazing and sharp teeth shining against artificial light. Just as Jaejoong pulled him back, Yoochun had one arm curved behind him, protecting Junsu, while the other was raised, ready to slash out at any moment. Junsu held his breath as the intensity of everything chilled him to the bone. He was terrified to see Yunho acting in such a way. The man looked…deadly.
“I want to make my point clear,” Yoochun said, his voice tight and icy. “I don’t care about the connection you have with your human locked inside, but the connection your human has with Junsu means something to me. A vampire has been tracking your human and hopefully you know of this. Why you haven’t killed her yet in order to protect him is beyond me. Your kind is more stupid than I thought.”
Again, Yunho seethed, causing Jaejoong to tighten his grip on his lover’s arm and Junsu to press closer against Yoochun’s back. The angel holding Yunho sent his own chilling glare at Yoochun as he said, “I would refrain from insulting us when we have done nothing to deserve such harsh treatment. Get to your point.”
Yoochun did just that as he felt Junsu tremble behind him. “A few hours ago, this young one was hurt. That lady vampire attacked us somehow by using her voice, causing his ears to bleed.”
The brunette was shocked to see the instant surprise and concern that crossed both Yunho and Jaejoong’s expressions. The handsome figure barely relaxed within Jaejoong’s grip as his face softened only the slightest. His eyes narrowed in thought. “Her voice?” he repeated.
“Some of our unpleasant cousin’s have such abilities,” said Jaejoong as his mind remembered the distant past.
“I could care less about their abilities,” said Yoochun as anger boiled within him. “What I want to know if where I can find this vampire so I can kill her.”
Jaejoong’s delicate face hardened. “It does no good to kill another creature,” he warned.
“It does when such a creature harms something of yours,” answered Yoochun thinly.
Jaejoong remained silent. His dark eyes searched Yoochun’s face for anything indicating he was telling false lies. But he wasn’t, and somehow, Jaejoong felt a pinch of relief knowing that someone like Yoochun was already protecting their Junsu. Suddenly remembering the redhead’s presence, the angel looked behind Yoochun’s figure. Guilt thrashed within Jaejoong’s chest as he took in Junsu’s trembling form. His friend looked terrified and confused.
“Can he hear us?” Jaejoong asked as he released Yunho’s arm. Yoochun slightly relaxed from his guarded position and with a painful look, shook his head. “He won’t be able to hear normally again for a few days.”
“How do you know?” Yunho demanded.
“A doctor told me,” the brunette snapped.
It was then that Jaejoong wanted to cry. He wanted to cry for Junsu’s pain and the future pain for Changmin when he learned what has happened to his closest friend. With a sad, yet soft smile, Jaejoong moved forward, ignoring Yunho’s protests and Yoochun’s fierce chocolate eyes. The brunette cautiously moved aside as Jaejoong stopped beside Junsu. The redhead was staring at him with a mixture of fear and confusion.
“Hello, Su,” he moved his lips slowly. “I am sorry.”
Junsu stared at the angel, puzzled. Jaejoong reached out and hesitantly took the shaking hand. “You’re hurt,” he said simply. Slowly, Junsu’s figure relaxed as he grasped the angel’s pale hand and gave him a nervous smile. “Don’t worry,” said the redhead, his voice hoarse and shallow. Jaejoong knew he could still hear nothing.
The angel looked up at Yoochun who had yet to move away from Junsu. The redhead looked back and forth from both his friends and said as he gestured to the brunette, “This is Yoochun.”
Said-brunette closed his eyes as a disapproving look crossed his face. “They don’t need to know that…” he whispered. Junsu never saw the look though; he was too focused on Jaejoong who smiling at him with glee.
“I am glad you found him,” said the angel. Junsu’s cheeks flushed, giving away that he understood the statement. Jaejoong giggled before gladly wrapping his arms around his redheaded friend. Yoochun immediately tensed, his posture stiff and threatening. Within seconds, Yunho was standing behind his lover and friend, a dangerous glint in his dark orbs.
“Oh hush, you two,” said Jaejoong as he sensed the tense atmosphere. “You are going to scare Junsu to death if you keep this up. We’re not mortal enemies, you know.”
“You’re right,” said Yoochun. “We’re immortal enemies.”
Jaejoong winced and said no more. Yunho growled behind him.
Yoochun’s eyes blazed with controlled anger. He ignored Junsu’s worried gaze and said clearly, “I have but one favor to ask of you. Don’t expect future favors either.”
“We won’t,” Yunho replied sharply.
Yoochun’s glare narrowed, but if possible, his eyes softened. “Protect him when I can’t,” he whispered as he gestured to Junsu standing within Jaejoong’s grasp. The angel was looking at Yoochun quizzically. Yoochun stared back defiantly. “Don’t let anything hurt him.”
“…you love him, don’t you?” asked the angel once he finished calculating the other’s expression.
Yoochun’s face betrayed nothing. “Just keep him safe,” he murmured; he let his eyes plead and not his voice. Even Yunho was baffled by such an expression. “You would do the same for your human if he were in such a predicament.”
Jaejoong smiled and said, “Without a second thought.”
Yoochun’s eyes were desperately asking for their help. “Then do this for me,” he murmured. His eyes locked with Junsu’s as he stared at the other with hurt and guilt. “For him. None of this should’ve ever happened to him.”
Somehow, Junsu recognized he was the subject of their conversation. He looked back and forth from both his friends and asked, “What’re you guys talking about?”
All three felt sorry that the redhead couldn’t hear anything, but they gave no acknowledgement towards Junsu’s question. Jaejoong pulled him closer into his embrace while he smiled at Yoochun. “Of course we’ll protect him. He’s our Minnie’s closest friend after all, and plus, he’s like family.”
Yoochun did not approve of that comment, but he said nothing. With one final look at Junsu, he turned away and walked towards his car.
“Wait!” Junsu’s shouted as he pulled free from Jaejoong’s grip. As the redhead ran forward into Yoochun’s embrace, Jaejoong looked up at his lover. The handsome one looked both torn and angry. “What do you expect Yunho?” he asked. “We’ve never been in a situation like this before.”
“There was no other choice,” Yunho said thinly.
Jaejoong chuckled, “But I find myself liking Yoochun. I’m happy Junsu has him to keep him company and not another crazed creature.”
Yunho’s voice was quiet and firm. “We have to find Yee Jung. I cannot allow her to hurt our family any longer.”
“And neither can I,” answered Jaejoong sadly as he watched the delicate scene a few feet away from him. Yoochun was reluctant to let Junsu go, but eventually the redhead pulled away and watched his friend leave. When Junsu returned to Jaejoong’s side, the angel pulled him in for another hug, allowing a single tear to leak from his eye.
“We’ll never let anything happen to you ever again, Su,” he whispered. “I promise.”
He felt arms wrap around his delicate torso and a sweet voice whisper ‘Thank you’ before Yunho led them both inside, locking the door behind them. The angel let go of Junsu, letting his smile reach the corners of his eyes. Yunho stood beside the redhead, his face apologetic.
“We’ll protect you,” Jaejoong whispered his promise with strength and certainty. The light was dancing against his dark eyes. “And so will your loving werewolf.”
next: part 14
………………………………..comments are like valuable hockey pucks!
Pairings: Junsu/Yoochun, Changmin/Jaejoong/Yunho
Rating: NC-17
Warnings: Somewhat vulgar language, weak graphic images
Genre: Romance, angst, science-fiction-ish
A/N: Because I love the response from the last chapter, I will relieve most of you with this.
Summary: One trip to the Old Forest sends Junsu and Changmin into another world full of mistakened myths and new realizations. A vampire's goal in life is to live for eternity and feed from the warmth of a human. If that is so, what is a werewolf's goal?
Previous: Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3 / Part 4 / Part 5 / Part 6 / Part 7 / Part 8 / Part 9 / Part 10 / Part 11 / Part 12
. : : . : : . : : .
Junsu stared at his hands in horror. Small trails of blood, his blood, dripped from his fingertips. Nothing could describe the terror that filled his chest as he quickly lifted his fingers back to his ears. He felt more blood touch his skin before he could pull back and look at it.
Junsu gasped but he couldn't hear it. The shaky vibration from his throat was all he could feel. When hands covered his own, he looked up at Yoochun in desperate hope. He felt words leave his lips. 'Y-yoochun, m-my ears...they're...they're bleeding!'
He watched his friend speak but that was it; he heard nothing. 'I can't hear you!' Junsu screamed though no noise reached his ears. Yoochun's face turned incredibly pale. His dark eyes widened as the earlier fury in his chocolate orbs was replaced by fear.
Junsu felt his throat tightening. 'I can't h-hear you...' he felt the words tremble as they left his lips. Suddenly, he was cold, unbearably cold. Junsu pulled away from Yoochun's hands and hugged his body as the wind blew fiercely against his shaking frame. He lowered his head and cried. This was just too much. He could hear nothing, not even the ocean waves crashing against lands, nor the wind raging around him. He felt impossibly alone with his fear as his only company.
Warm hands gently covered his ears. Startled, Junsu jumped away but Yoochun was carefully holding him place. The redhead looked up at the brunette in fright. Yoochun was saying something. What was he saying?!
Yoochun's lips moved in a very slow, smooth motion. 'Stay calm,' he said; his eyes were incredibly gentle despite the obvious worry and panic hidden within those dark depths. His lips moved again. 'Please stay still. Okay?'
Junsu's fear of silence was causing the confusion to frighten him more than it should have. He trembled against Yoochun's warm hands. Tears continued to leak from his eyes. Yoochun never looked away though. He held Junsu's gaze as the redhead felt a sudden warmth reach his ears. It felt as if the warmth seeped into his very mind and eventually throughout his body; a warm fire that spread into his soul.
Junsu saw the concentrated look on Yoochun. Never before has he seen his new friend so serious and determined. He seemed concentrated as if the warm fire spreading throughout Junsu’s veins came directly from his touch. The redhead felt his body sag as he relaxed against this warmth; he never wanted to be rid of it. Warm tendrils caressed every limb of his body; it was as if gentle fingers were touching a fresh wound. The fire was delicate as it warmed his body.
Junsu felt something wet trickle down the sides of his neck, but he ignored it. Slowly, his eyes closed and he fell forward. Yoochun caught him as if he expected such a reaction, allowing Junsu to rest against his body. His hands now held the other's back.
The fear slowly began to disappear. Junsu could smell the musky scent upon Yoochun's clothes, and he liked it. He noticed that the wind had died down to a gentle breeze. The sand beneath his legs was cold yet soft. Even the ocean’s vibrations felt calm as waves beat against the shore; a gentle lullaby to send to sleep. He relaxed against the strong body holding him in a strong grip. The warmth that was Yoochun was cradling him, telling him he was not alone.
At that moment when his mind drifted to a dreamless slumber, Junsu felt entirely and impossibly safe.
. : : . : : . : : .
He awoke when gentle fingers slid through his hair. Junsu cracked opened his eyes to see Yoochun peering at him with concern. Those inviting lips moved, but still Junsu heard nothing, causing another shiver of fear to shake his body.
Yoochun moved his mouth slowly, on purpose. ‘We are at the hospital,’ he gestured to the large building outside the car windows. ‘You need to be checked out.’
Junsu sat up and looked around. Cars parked along cars littered the parking lot. ‘Which hospital?’ Junsu asked, unsure if he spoke correctly or not.
Yoochun apparently understood. ‘East Gate. Let’s go.’ The brunette got out of the car, his car, and walked over to open Junsu’s door. The redhead immediately grabbed onto his friend’s elbow as a dull ringing sounded through his ears. Yoochun looked at Junsu with a mixture of pain and worry, but understanding shined against the evening sun. He led Junsu into the hospital, not letting the smaller of the two let go as he spoke with a few people. Junsu stuck right beside him, his knuckles turning a pale white because of the grip he had on Yoochun’s elbow. He stared at everyone within the hospital but heard nothing - not even the babies wailing or the TV broadcasting the news on the nearby wall. Only the dull ringing was a constant reminder that noise actually existed
Minutes later, Yoochun was leading Junsu to the waiting room. The redhead saw the guilty look on his friend’s face, but he somewhat reassured the other by giving him a small smile. He could wait despite all the fears terrorizing him. Yoochun didn’t seem to think so, but he remained beside Junsu nonetheless.
The redhead realized something and pulled out his cell phone. He accessed the ‘note’ options and began to type away on the keypad. This would be an easier way of communication for now.
He wrote a message and showed Yoochun.
Are you okay?
Yoochun grinned as he read the message. He took Junsu’s cell phone and typed a reply.
I am. Do your ears hurt right now?
Junsu shook his head, answering Yoochun’s question. The redhead took the cell phone and typed his own question.
What happened?
The dark look that crossed Yoochun’s face was terrifying. Junsu could never be able to describe the absolute fury and hate blazing with those chocolate eyes. Yoochun’s lips were set in a tight line as he typed back.
I think it was that lady vampire.
Junsu stared at Yoochun in shock. The brunette’s expression was still tight with fury, but he stared at his companion with guilt. ‘I’m sorry,’ those lips said.
Again, Junsu shook his head, this time furiously. He grabbed his cell phone and quickly typed another message.
You have nothing to be sorry for. That vampire has issues with me, not you…though now that she’s after Changmin’s friends, I’m worried that she might come for you next.
The redhead was confused by the sly smirk that formed on Yoochun’s face. He took the phone and wrote.
I highly doubt she will mess with me.
He saw Junsu’s demanding expression and wrote:
I’m her worst enemy.
Junsu, once again, furiously grabbed the phone away and typed a new message, relaying all his thoughts into a simple statement.
You knew vampires existed before I even told you.
Yoochun silence was his answer. Junsu’s chest tightened with an emotion he could not describe. The silence was killing him. He brought his fingers across the keypad and wrote:
Tell me what you know about them.
Yoochun gave Junsu a piercing stare and firmly shook his head. Before the redhead could ask more however, his friend looked up as if he had been called. Without another typed message, Yoochun pulled Junsu to his feet and led him into the check-up room.
Two hours later, they were waiting for the doctor to return with his diagnostic. Junsu sat nervously on the edge of the small bed; his fingers were fiddling with the edge of his jacket. The ringing was still there, irritating his ears and giving him a headache. Junsu just wanted to fall back on this bed and shut his eyes while he forced the ringing to stop. None of those seemed to be happening though.
Yoochun reached out and took one of Junsu’s shaking hands. The brief warmth was comforting.
When the doctor came in, Junsu waited in silence as he explained as much as he could to Yoochun. Since his friend was not family, the doctor could only be brief. Yoochun listened carefully as the doctor explained.
“From what I’ve seen on the X-rays, some of the hairs in Junsu’s ears have been fried completely. Like I explained before, everyone has these hairs to properly hear; the less hairs the more difficult it becomes to process sound. Luckily though, it was only a small area that was damaged. I presume that within a few days, Junsu’s hearing would return to normal.”
The relief that washed across Yoochun’s face gave Junsu’s a flicker of hope. Was it good news he was getting from the doctor?
“I have prescribed some pain medication in case his ears begin to hurt. Please have someone bring Junsu within the next four days to give him a final check-up. And also, refrain from any more loud noises from now on.” With that, the doctor rose to his feet; Yoochun followed suit. The doctor turned to Junsu and patted him on the shoulder, giving him an encouraging smile. Slowly he said, “You will be just fine” before he left the room.
Junsu turned to look at Yoochun with hope. The brunette smiled a relieved smile which caused some of the fear in the redhead’s body to dissolve into nothing. Yoochun took Junsu’s cell phone from his pocket and typed up a short explanation of what the doctor said. Overjoyed, Junsu smiled and wrapped his arms around his friend’s neck. Yoochun’s gentle hands held him close as relief washed over both their bodies.
Junsu murmured a quiet “thank you” before Yoochun pulled out of the parking lot that night.
. : : . : : . : : .
Changmin relaxed in the cool embrace of his lover. For once, Jaejoong had ceased his pampering and agreed to watch a movie with the youngest. The two sat upon the couch, both half-laying, half-sitting up against Yunho’s built frame. The darkness of the night had long ago washed the sky clean of its bright blue, leaving the moon and stars to sparkle dim light into the apartment.
The bright light from the TV screen was beginning to annoy Changmin. His eyes were drooping and his head felt heavy. Yunho’s fingers softly grazing the skin of his collarbone was not helping much either. If Changmin had to guess, he would say Jaejoong was already asleep. The angel had the perfect position between both his lovers, new and old.
Their movie had ended a half hour ago. Now they were watching a local, late-night drama. Changmin was bored of it, so he yawned.
“Go to sleep Changmin,” said Yunho in a quite, soothing voice. “We’ll wake you once Junsu returns.”
The thought of his closest friend nagged his mind. “He should be here by now,” he said hoarsely. “What time is it?”
“Ten minutes pass eleven,” came Jaejoong’s swift reply. Apparently no one was asleep at the moment. Reluctantly, Changmin pulled away from his lovers and sat up, stretching his long arms above his head before he got to his feet. His bruises no longer pained him. He lazily made his way into the kitchen and picked up his cell phone which he had left to charge before the movie had started. He unplugged the device and flipped it open.
No missed calls.
Changmin’s eyes narrowed with dismay. Usually Junsu would call if he was going to stay out so late.
There was a brief flash of light that hit the kitchen window, causing Changmin to squint. A small wave of relief came over him. ‘Good, he’s home’ he thought as he walked towards the front door. He opened the door just as he heard the engine being shut off. His eyes looked at the car which had taken his and Junsu’s usual parking space. The car wasn’t Junsu’s.
The unfamiliar car door opened and an unfamiliar figure got out. Changmin couldn’t make out this stranger’s features because of the artificial light coming from the lamppost hitting his back.
There was an unforgiving snarl that came from behind him before a hand seized his shoulder and yanked him back. Changmin gasped as Yunho stepped in front of him, shoving the youngest against Jaejoong who appeared suddenly from behind too. “Hey!” Changmin exclaimed; he didn’t like the sudden harsh treatment. “What was that for Yunho-”
“Jae, keep him inside.” The older one’s voice was made of pure steel and what he said sounded like an order. Changmin shivered from the intensity. He felt Jaejoong’s delicate hands beginning to pull him away from the door, and he was shocked from the strength that forced him to move. “Jaejoong, what’re you doing?” he demanded as he was pulled deeper into his own home. Moments later, Jaejoong had him sitting on his bed. An old, pained look filled the angel’s features as he whispered an apology before leaving the room and shutting the door behind him. When Changmin lunged for the doorknob, he found that he could not turn it an inch.
“Jaejoong!” Changmin hollered as he slammed his fist against the wooden structure, hindering his way outside. “Jaejoong, let me out! Why are you locking me in here?!”
Outside the door, Jaejoong murmured another apology before making his way back to the front entrance. The scent hit him full force and he felt a distasteful substance crawl up his throat. He stopped behind Yunho. The handsome man was not allowing another to pass by him.
Not even Junsu who stood frightfully before him could think about passing by. Beside the redhead stood another man with brown strands of hair and eyes the richest shade of chocolate one could ever muster. His hand was on Junsu’s shoulder, and the redhead wondered if that was for support or for protection.
‘Changmin thinks they’re vampires’ Junsu remembered suddenly. The usual pale forms of his friends never seemed so frightening before. ‘And Yoochun believes in vampires.’ Yunho was glaring at Yoochun with an intense expression filled with so much hate, anger, and depth that Junsu couldn’t help but scoot closer next to his friend. Yoochun took the hint and stepped in front of the redhead, not releasing his eyes from Yunho’s dangerous face.
No one spoke from what Junsu could tell. No lips moved, not even Yoochun’s frame twitched. The redhead locked eyes with the dark orbs peering from behind Yunho and felt his heart tighten. Only once has he seen such a sad, heart-wrenching expression on Jaejoong’s face, and seeing such a look once again caused a sudden guilt to fill his heart. After only a few more moments of the deadly staring contest did Jaejoong push his way past Yunho and stand before Junsu and Yoochun, a quizzical look upon his face.
The angel’s lips moved slowly, enough for Junsu to recognize a few words. Still, he couldn’t comprehend what Jaejoong was saying.
Yoochun did however. He carefully turned his eyes away from Yunho so he could look at Jaejoong’s delicate figure. “I am only returning Junsu to you,” he spoke firmly. “I also have something to say to you both, whether you desire to listen or not.”
“Why should we listen to you?” Yunho snapped; his eyes were seething as was his voice. His hand was gripping Jaejoong’s shoulder in a very protective manner.
“Stay calm, Yunho,” said Jaejoong in a tentative purr. He was trying to ease the current situation. “Let him speak.”
“I will not hear a word he says.”
Yoochun’s eyes narrowed as they once again locked onto Yunho. “Then don’t listen. I will speak to this one instead.”
Within half a second, Yunho had pulled Jaejoong away and lurched forward, eyes blazing and sharp teeth shining against artificial light. Just as Jaejoong pulled him back, Yoochun had one arm curved behind him, protecting Junsu, while the other was raised, ready to slash out at any moment. Junsu held his breath as the intensity of everything chilled him to the bone. He was terrified to see Yunho acting in such a way. The man looked…deadly.
“I want to make my point clear,” Yoochun said, his voice tight and icy. “I don’t care about the connection you have with your human locked inside, but the connection your human has with Junsu means something to me. A vampire has been tracking your human and hopefully you know of this. Why you haven’t killed her yet in order to protect him is beyond me. Your kind is more stupid than I thought.”
Again, Yunho seethed, causing Jaejoong to tighten his grip on his lover’s arm and Junsu to press closer against Yoochun’s back. The angel holding Yunho sent his own chilling glare at Yoochun as he said, “I would refrain from insulting us when we have done nothing to deserve such harsh treatment. Get to your point.”
Yoochun did just that as he felt Junsu tremble behind him. “A few hours ago, this young one was hurt. That lady vampire attacked us somehow by using her voice, causing his ears to bleed.”
The brunette was shocked to see the instant surprise and concern that crossed both Yunho and Jaejoong’s expressions. The handsome figure barely relaxed within Jaejoong’s grip as his face softened only the slightest. His eyes narrowed in thought. “Her voice?” he repeated.
“Some of our unpleasant cousin’s have such abilities,” said Jaejoong as his mind remembered the distant past.
“I could care less about their abilities,” said Yoochun as anger boiled within him. “What I want to know if where I can find this vampire so I can kill her.”
Jaejoong’s delicate face hardened. “It does no good to kill another creature,” he warned.
“It does when such a creature harms something of yours,” answered Yoochun thinly.
Jaejoong remained silent. His dark eyes searched Yoochun’s face for anything indicating he was telling false lies. But he wasn’t, and somehow, Jaejoong felt a pinch of relief knowing that someone like Yoochun was already protecting their Junsu. Suddenly remembering the redhead’s presence, the angel looked behind Yoochun’s figure. Guilt thrashed within Jaejoong’s chest as he took in Junsu’s trembling form. His friend looked terrified and confused.
“Can he hear us?” Jaejoong asked as he released Yunho’s arm. Yoochun slightly relaxed from his guarded position and with a painful look, shook his head. “He won’t be able to hear normally again for a few days.”
“How do you know?” Yunho demanded.
“A doctor told me,” the brunette snapped.
It was then that Jaejoong wanted to cry. He wanted to cry for Junsu’s pain and the future pain for Changmin when he learned what has happened to his closest friend. With a sad, yet soft smile, Jaejoong moved forward, ignoring Yunho’s protests and Yoochun’s fierce chocolate eyes. The brunette cautiously moved aside as Jaejoong stopped beside Junsu. The redhead was staring at him with a mixture of fear and confusion.
“Hello, Su,” he moved his lips slowly. “I am sorry.”
Junsu stared at the angel, puzzled. Jaejoong reached out and hesitantly took the shaking hand. “You’re hurt,” he said simply. Slowly, Junsu’s figure relaxed as he grasped the angel’s pale hand and gave him a nervous smile. “Don’t worry,” said the redhead, his voice hoarse and shallow. Jaejoong knew he could still hear nothing.
The angel looked up at Yoochun who had yet to move away from Junsu. The redhead looked back and forth from both his friends and said as he gestured to the brunette, “This is Yoochun.”
Said-brunette closed his eyes as a disapproving look crossed his face. “They don’t need to know that…” he whispered. Junsu never saw the look though; he was too focused on Jaejoong who smiling at him with glee.
“I am glad you found him,” said the angel. Junsu’s cheeks flushed, giving away that he understood the statement. Jaejoong giggled before gladly wrapping his arms around his redheaded friend. Yoochun immediately tensed, his posture stiff and threatening. Within seconds, Yunho was standing behind his lover and friend, a dangerous glint in his dark orbs.
“Oh hush, you two,” said Jaejoong as he sensed the tense atmosphere. “You are going to scare Junsu to death if you keep this up. We’re not mortal enemies, you know.”
“You’re right,” said Yoochun. “We’re immortal enemies.”
Jaejoong winced and said no more. Yunho growled behind him.
Yoochun’s eyes blazed with controlled anger. He ignored Junsu’s worried gaze and said clearly, “I have but one favor to ask of you. Don’t expect future favors either.”
“We won’t,” Yunho replied sharply.
Yoochun’s glare narrowed, but if possible, his eyes softened. “Protect him when I can’t,” he whispered as he gestured to Junsu standing within Jaejoong’s grasp. The angel was looking at Yoochun quizzically. Yoochun stared back defiantly. “Don’t let anything hurt him.”
“…you love him, don’t you?” asked the angel once he finished calculating the other’s expression.
Yoochun’s face betrayed nothing. “Just keep him safe,” he murmured; he let his eyes plead and not his voice. Even Yunho was baffled by such an expression. “You would do the same for your human if he were in such a predicament.”
Jaejoong smiled and said, “Without a second thought.”
Yoochun’s eyes were desperately asking for their help. “Then do this for me,” he murmured. His eyes locked with Junsu’s as he stared at the other with hurt and guilt. “For him. None of this should’ve ever happened to him.”
Somehow, Junsu recognized he was the subject of their conversation. He looked back and forth from both his friends and asked, “What’re you guys talking about?”
All three felt sorry that the redhead couldn’t hear anything, but they gave no acknowledgement towards Junsu’s question. Jaejoong pulled him closer into his embrace while he smiled at Yoochun. “Of course we’ll protect him. He’s our Minnie’s closest friend after all, and plus, he’s like family.”
Yoochun did not approve of that comment, but he said nothing. With one final look at Junsu, he turned away and walked towards his car.
“Wait!” Junsu’s shouted as he pulled free from Jaejoong’s grip. As the redhead ran forward into Yoochun’s embrace, Jaejoong looked up at his lover. The handsome one looked both torn and angry. “What do you expect Yunho?” he asked. “We’ve never been in a situation like this before.”
“There was no other choice,” Yunho said thinly.
Jaejoong chuckled, “But I find myself liking Yoochun. I’m happy Junsu has him to keep him company and not another crazed creature.”
Yunho’s voice was quiet and firm. “We have to find Yee Jung. I cannot allow her to hurt our family any longer.”
“And neither can I,” answered Jaejoong sadly as he watched the delicate scene a few feet away from him. Yoochun was reluctant to let Junsu go, but eventually the redhead pulled away and watched his friend leave. When Junsu returned to Jaejoong’s side, the angel pulled him in for another hug, allowing a single tear to leak from his eye.
“We’ll never let anything happen to you ever again, Su,” he whispered. “I promise.”
He felt arms wrap around his delicate torso and a sweet voice whisper ‘Thank you’ before Yunho led them both inside, locking the door behind them. The angel let go of Junsu, letting his smile reach the corners of his eyes. Yunho stood beside the redhead, his face apologetic.
“We’ll protect you,” Jaejoong whispered his promise with strength and certainty. The light was dancing against his dark eyes. “And so will your loving werewolf.”
next: part 14
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