Unlock Arc II - Chapter Eleven
Title: Unlock Arc II
Authors:
renichifreak and
yeonah
Chapter: 11/?
Fandom: SS501, cameos by KARA, U-KISS, Super Junior and BEAST
Pairings: KyuSaeng, HyunMin, SooBum (may be other pairings in the future)
Rating: PG-16
Warning: Angst, AU, Fluff
Summary: Not everything is as it seems, and for those who are as far from normal as you can get, life is a bleak existence. The only ones who can truly understand what these individuals go through are those...just like them.
A/N: YoungSaeng and HyunJoong are played by
renichifreak and KyuJong and JungMin are played by me.
YoungSaeng watched the exchange in something akin to amusement. He could tell that JungMin was happy to be out of the infirmary and back around other people, but he was also well aware that JungMin was not a person who could sit still for extended periods of time.
Hesitating far longer than he liked, YoungSaeng slowly reached out and patted JungMin on the shoulder, very much like he did to KyuJong so long ago.
Blinking at the pat, JungMin grinned widely at his best friend, bypassing the hesitance and just being happy that YoungSaeng had made contact. Which was much better than anything since they'd first arrived here. It hurt to see his friend so withdrawn again, but he understood, as the others did.
"Can I try walking again?" He asked HyunJoong after a minute, poking his side and looking up at him.
Seeing YoungSaeng's small gesture, HyunJoong had to smile before turning toward JungMin. "...Just be careful, okay?" he finally said, getting to his feet and helping the redhead to his feet.
"Yep," JungMin smiled, taking HyunJoong's hands. He wobbled when getting to his feet, needing to hold on to HyunJoong for a minute to get his balance back and stop the shaking in his legs.
KyuJong tried not to watch, not wanting to seem like he was staring. But it was horribly obvious the trouble JungMin was having just staying standing on his own two feet. For someone who used to take flying leaps off porches and jump out of windows and trees, it was painful to watch.
HyunJoong refused to move too far from JungMin's side, not once letting go of his hands. He did, however, loosen the hold so JungMin could pull his hands away if he wanted.
YoungSaeng watched closely as he saw that everything KyuJong had told him was the truth. The unsteadiness was unnerving as he was so used to the manic redhead running all over the place.
Taking slow breaths, JungMin was grateful when DongHae started messing around again in the middle of the room, taking the majority of the focus off of him. It was highly frustrating to be like this, and he didn't want to be the center of attention right now.
Once he was steady he took a shuffling, awkward step forward, having trouble moving his foot the way he wanted it to. He didn't let go of HyunJoong's hands, knowing his legs could give out at any time.
Like earlier, HyunJoong took a slep back for every step forward JungMin took. He had to remember to thank DongHae for causing a distraction so that JungMin could concentrate on the task at hand.
It was hard for him to watch the frustration flash through his boyfriend's eyes, but he said nothing, using his energy to be optimistic, knowing it was something the redhead needed.
Taking another awkward step, JungMin put all his attention on walking, putting one foot in front of the other and waiting until he was steady before placing the next foot. Every few steps his legs would shake and he would have to stop for longer, worried he was going to fall over. He knew YoungSaeng was watching, KyuJong and EunAh trying not to. JungMin wanted to do well, to prove he was getting better.
That idea was going well for ten or so steps. Then halfway through moving his foot, JungMin's front leg gave out and he fell into HyunJoong with a light yelp.
Ready just in case, HyunJoong started when JungMin's leg gave out, catching him before he fell. Once his arms were around JungMin, he tightened the hold, burying his face in the redhead's shoulder. "You did good, Min," he murmured quietly. "You'll get it, and before you know it, you'll be running laps around us all."
Unable to get his feet back under himself properly, JungMin had to be supported entirely by HyunJoong, fingers curled into the older boy's shirt. He drew in a shaky breath, resting his head lightly against HyunJoong's and closing his eyes. "I hope so," he murmured, the frustration clear in his voice. He was trying his best, but progress was so slow he felt he wasn't even going anywhere some days.
KyuJong turned his head away once he was sure JungMin was okay, feeling like he was intruding on something by watching them. Instead he kissed YoungSaeng's temple softly, running his hand along the older boy's arm.
YoungSaeng leaned into KyuJong's touch before closing his eyes, giving the couple a moment. It hurt him to see JungMin like that, but the redhead was stubborn and HyunJoong was as well. The two would get through it, he was sure.
Running a hand through JungMin's hair, HyunJoong pulled back a bit. "Think you can try a few more steps, or should we just relax for now?" he asked.
Drawing in a slow breath, JungMin looked up at HyunJoong, lips pursed. After a moment he smiled a little. "A few more steps." He couldn't give up so easily, or else he was never going to get better. Even if he had to fall a hundred times first, he was going to walk again.
Smiling slightly, HyunJoong gave him a quick kiss before moving his hands to support the redhead until he was steady enough to do it himself. Once he deemed it so, HyunJoong backed away a bit, hold still firm on JungMin.
Wobbling a little, JungMin put his entire focus on staying upright, taking slow even breaths. He was grateful for HyunJoong's hold, sure he would probably topple back over a step or two in. That wasn't going to stop him from right though, neither was the painful ache starting in legs that hadn't supported his weight in nearly two years.
Finally he took another shuffling step forward, biting his lower lip. His second step had the pain increasing, making him wince. "Where am I heading anyways, or am I just walking until I hit a wall or fall on my ass?" He asked, chuckling quietly.
Seeing the wince, HyunJoong bit his tongue to hold back his concerns, sure they were easily seen anyway. Looking around, he watched HyunSeung push over one of the chairs. Smiling at him, he looked back at JungMin. "How about there?"
Looking over at the movement, JungMin blinked at the chair. After a moment he pursed his lips and nodded. "Okay." He could make it there, it was only about seven steps away. He took another step and stumbled a little, legs shaking as he held on to HyunJoong for support. Only once his legs had stopped shaking did he try moving again.
YoungSaeng watched as JungMin carefully moved toward the chair before his eyes fell on HyunJoong. He could see just how much this was affecting him as well as JungMin. Even with him being in the infirmary for so long, YoungSaeng was still able to see the dark circles under his eyes.
No wonder the healers were keeping him in there and not letting him work.
"...You can do it, Min ah," YoungSaeng murmured, voice still very quiet, yet loud enough for the redhead to hear him.
JungMin smiled at YoungSaeng's voice, squeezing HyunJoong's hands lightly as he kept going.
He nearly fell over one more time, holding on to HyunJoong until he could get his feet back under himself again. But finally he reached the chair HyunSeung had placed for him, and slowly lowered himself down with a sigh of relief, the pain in his legs getting to be unbearable. But he smiled widely despite that up at HyunJoong.
It took a lot for HyunJoong to not burst into tears when JungMin reached the chair. He could see just how much pain he was in, but he was still all smiles. "Told you so, Min," HyunJoong said quietly, voice cracking slightly as he returned the smile. "You'll do it, because you're too damn stubborn not to."
"Got that right," JungMin chuckled, not letting go of HyunJoong's hands. He felt like he'd ran for a whole day straight, and all he'd done was get halfway across the room. "But now I'm over here and there's nowhere for you to sit, and I don't think I can get back up," he pouted at HyunJoong.
Smile growing, HyunJoong leaned over to kiss his boyfriend before taking a seat on the floor right between JungMin's legs, resting his elbows on both of the redhead's knees. Looking up, he smiled a bit more. "Is this acceptable?" he asked teasingly.
JungMin grinned slightly, freeing one hand to play with locks of HyunJoong's hair. "Yes, if you have to be so far away."
Smiling at them both, KyuJong looked at YoungSaeng beside him, kissing his boyfriend's temple and resting against him. "See, he'll be fine," he whispered, knowing YoungSaeng was worried about JungMin. The redhead was weak, but this was much better than when he couldn't even stay awake for ten minutes in a row or even lift his hand.
YoungSaeng watched the two with a small smile and soft eyes, nodding when KyuJong whispered to him. He had indeed recalled when JungMin had first woken up and could barely move, so this was a vast improvement.
HyunJoong sighed as JungMin's long fingers began playing with his hair. He quite enjoyed the feeling.
The afternoon stretched on, people coming and going. A few of the new cell members wandered in to practice, away from JungMin of course. The conversation was light and easy, everyone taking the rare chance to relax.
Laughing as HyungJoon showed up and squawked as he was hit over the head by EunAh, KyuJong looked to JungMin and saw the redhead was trying not to nod off, looking like he might just fall off his chair. "I think some of us should probably get some rest," he chuckled.
HyunJoong laughed as he saw one of the new guys start a conversation with HyunSeung, the blond turning a faint shade of red before KyuJong's words made him turn. Looking up at JungMin, he smiled and nudged him before getting to his knees. "Alright, Min, hop onto my back and we'll head back to my room," he chuckled before looking over at KyuJong, and the boy curled up and practically asleep in his lap. "And you might want to worry about yours since I have mine," he pointed out with a grin.
KyuJong chuckled, running his fingers slowly through YoungSaeng's hair. "I'll bring him back up in a minute." YoungSaeng looked too peaceful where he was, KyuJong not wanting to disturb him.
JungMin draped his arms over HyunJoong's shoulders, managing to scoot forward on the chair so he could get onto HyunJoong's back. His legs were refusing to cooperate any further than that, still throbbing painfully though less than before.
Securing JungMin's legs around his waist, HyunJoong smiled at HyunSeung and the other boy as they helped HyunJoong to his feet without jarring his boyfriend. "Thanks, Seung ah...and sorry, but I don't know your name off the top of my head," he told the other apologetically.
"JunHyung," the new boy quirked a smile, pushing the chair back against the wall before one of the others could trip on it.
"See you both tomorrow, Hyun," KyuJong said, smiling at them. JungMin waved tiredly.
"JunHyung," HyunJoong murmured before nodding with a smile. "Glad to see you up and around. If you need anything, Seungie knows where to find me." Shooting a wink toward HyunSeung, who only bristled and turned a couple shades redder, he left the room, JungMin secure on his back.
YoungSaeng waved back at JungMin slightly, eyes barely open. He had been so comfortable that he had found it hard to stay awake. Once they were gone, he yawned slightly, but didn't move.
Looking down at YoungSaeng, KyuJong's smile turned gentler, and he ran his fingers slowly through YoungSaeng's hair again. "Want to head to bed too, Saengie?" he murmured softly. "More comfortable than the couch," he chuckled.
YoungSaeng pouted at the idea of moving, but nodded and flailed a bit as he pulled himself into a seated position. Looking around, he saw that SooHyun and KiBum had left, presumably to sleep as well, and EunAh looked to be nodding off on HyungJoon's shoulder.
Smiling, KyuJong stood up and held both hands out to help YoungSaeng do the same. "The rain's supposed to be stopping overnight, want to go walk around tomorrow?" he asked his boyfriend, loving how YoungSaeng brightened each time they went outside.
Too tired to control himself, YoungSaeng let a soft smile slip out as he nodded happily. He loved it outside. While he was getting used to the shelter, he would always prefer the fresh air.
Unable to help how his own smile widened at the expression on YoungSaeng's face, KyuJong got YoungSaeng standing and wrapped one arm loosely around his waist to keep him standing. "Night," he smiled to the others left, guiding YoungSaeng back towards the stairs.
Leaning against KyuJong, YoungSaeng blinked a few times before waving at the others who were still left in the room, letting KyuJong guide him out. "Thank you, Kyu yah," he murmured, referring to both the help, and getting him out of the room.
"No problem," KyuJong chuckled, heading up the stairs slowly. After a minute they returned to their room, KyuJong closing the door behind them and steering YoungSaeng to bed. "I'm just going to get changed, okay?" he smiled and kissed YoungSaeng's nose before backing up and getting a pair of pajamas from the dresser before heading to the bathroom. They still didn't change in the same room, KyuJong letting YoungSaeng have his space.
Standing awkwardly infront of the bed, YoungSaeng wrinkled his nose at the kiss and watched KyuJong gather clothes and head into the bathroom.
Sighing, he padded over to a drawer and pulled out a pair of sweatpants and a loose shirt of KyuJong's, changing quickly before walking over to the bed and taking a seat, his eyes focused on the door.
He hated the fact that so much had changed in the time that they had been apart, but with the addition of so many scars to his body and how thin he had become, he refused to let anyone see his body, even KyuJong. While he knew he had when they were dressing his wounds, he was also barely conscious, saving him from the pain of seeing KyuJong's face at seeing everything.
Coming back out of the bathroom a minute later in his pajamas, KyuJong went to the bed and climbed up behind YoungSaeng, smiling until he saw the expression on his boyfriend's face. "Hey, what's up?" he asked quietly, putting one arm lightly around YoungSaeng's shoulders and rubbing his arm.
Looking at KyuJong, YoungSaeng tucked his legs up onto the bed and leaned against his boyfriend, not saying a word for a while. "...I wanna go back to the way it was, Kyu," he finally answered. "I hate how I am now; I absolutely hate it."
KyuJong's eyes saddened, and he rested his head lightly against YoungSaeng's. He wanted to go back to how it used to be too, missing his self-confident, easy-to-laugh boyfriend...but he had faith in YoungSaeng that he'd be able to pull himself back up eventually. And he would continue to support him until YoungSaeng could stand on his own two feet again.
"It will go back to the way it was, Saeng," he whispered softly. "You're strong, and you've been recovering slowly. Give it time, okay?" He nuzzled his nose against YoungSaeng's hair.
YoungSaeng let out a heavy breath, closing his eyes. "This isn't like before, though. I just...I've never been this afraid to be touched before. I don't think I can handle anyone but you or Umma near me. Even JungMin scares me, and he's the one person who has never done that..."
He hoped and prayed that KyuJong was right, though.
KyuJong shifted slightly so he could tuck his fingers under YoungSaeng's chin slightly, tilting his head up. "It'll get better," he smiled softly, brushing his thumb over YoungSaeng's cheek. "It's all up here, Saeng." He tapped YoungSaeng's temple gently. "You know JungMin and the others aren't going to hurt you, just as you know Umma and I would never hurt you. You just need time for it to sink in again."
He kissed YoungSaeng's forehead softly. "Saeng, you touched JungMin's shoulder today, and sat right beside him. It was small, but it was something you would have never done a week ago. A week ago you couldn't be within a few feet of anyone but me and Umma. It's happening, Saeng. You're getting better."
Listening as KyuJong spoke, YoungSaeng felt tears build in his eyes. This is what he missed so desperately for the last two years. He missed KyuJong's constant and unwavering support. Not even bothering to wipe away the tears that slid down his cheeks, he shifted, burying his face into KyuJong's shoulder, whispering a thank you against his shirt.
Smiling gently, KyuJong wrapped both arms around his boyfriend and ran his fingers through YoungSaeng's hair, humming quietly. He whispered a soft 'I love you' into YoungSaeng's ear, meaning every syllable.
After a minute, he kissed the top of YoungSaeng's hair. "Come on, let's get some sleep," he murmured, shifting to ease them both back onto the bed to lie down.
Nodding as KyuJong eased them both down, YoungSaeng pulled the covers up and closed his eyes, resting his head on his boyfriend's chest. He was silent as they laid there, debating if he should say what was on his mind. After a moment, he shifted until his mouth was just by KyuJong's ear. "I love you, Kyu..." he whispered.
He knew that it would take time to return to how they were, but he needed to let KyuJong know that at least his feelings were the same.
KyuJong's smile eased out, and he kissed YoungSaeng's cheek softly, running his hand over is boyfriend's back soothingly. "Love you too, Saengie," he murmured in return, the emotion clear in his voice as he settled them both down to sleep.
*******************************
Once he reached his room, HyunJoong opened the door and stepped in. Looking around, he noticed that the room had been cleaned and his work organized. He had to remember to thank Xander later on.
"You still awake there, Min ah?" he asked quietly, not wanting to disturb him if he had fallen asleep.
"Mhm," came the sleepy hum from the redhead on his back. JungMin cracked one eye open, blinking blearily at their surroundings. "We're not in the infirmary?" he murmured, trying to focus.
"Nope. This is my room," HyunJoong explained, walking over to the bed and easing JungMin off his back and helping him sit. "I'm probably going to have to sit through a major RyeoWook lecture, but I'm sure we could both use some time away from there."
"Agreed," JungMin chuckled tiredly, rubbing his eye before looking up at HyunJoong. "I'm gonna set goals for myself," he smiled, trying to stay awake. "Tomorrow I want to stay standing long enough to take an actual shower," he laughed quietly, before flopping onto his side with an 'oof'. "...When I can move."
Smiling, HyunJoong got to his feet to search for clothes to change into. "You want to sleep in that, or something else?" he asked, nodding at JungMin's idea. "And goals would be good, especially if you keep them small at first," he replied. "And hell, even if you take a bath, the hot water'll help to relax your muscles."
"Yeah," JungMin nodded, blinking as he watched HyunJoong. "I'd say I want to sleep in something else, but I think my mobility for the day has been used up." He flailed a little on the edge of the bed to demonstrate.
"Well, I can at least help you with the shirt, if you want," HyunJoong suggested, pulling out a tank top from a drawer. He had to admit that while JungMin's power was so low and the risk of him hurting him was less, HyunJoong found the feel of JungMin's skin unbearably addictive.
"I wouldn't mind that," the redhead grinned, watching what HyunJoong was doing and trying not to fall asleep. "Your bed is much more comfortable than the infirmary bed."
Quickly changing and dumping his clothes into the hamper in the corner, HyunJoong returned to his boyfriend's side and motioned for him to lift his arms as best he could. Maneuvering the shirt off and taking a moment to stare, he helped JungMin get into the clean shirt.
"I made sure that I have one of the most comfortable beds, but don't let anyone know that," he murmured with a chuckle before sitting on the bed and scooting them both back.
"My lips are sealed," JungMin smiled, managing to roll himself over enough to drape himself half-over the older boy, nose buried in HyunJoong's neck. He'd noticed HyunJoong's gaze lingering of course, and wanted desperately to have long kisses with him like they used to. But it was all he could do to place soft kisses along HyunJoong's neck and collarbone, all he could reach. "Do they know how long it'll be before this isn't a problem anymore?" he murmured quietly, slurring his words a little.
Shivering as JungMin trailed kisses over his neck and collarbone, HyunJoong tightened his hold on JungMin before hearing his question. With a sigh, he shook his head. "It's hard to tell," he replied quietly. "The fact that you truly want to plays a huge part, so I think it'll take a while, but not as long as it could." He figured JungMin would prefer him to be honest rather than sugarcoat it.
Pausing, he tilted JungMin's head up a bit to kiss him lightly. "But as long as you're here, I'm happy to help." He wanted desperately to tell JungMin just how much he had missed him, but figured that the redhead had enough on his mind.
Smiling against HyunJoong's lips, JungMin kissed him back softly, meeting HyunJoong's eyes. "I don't think I'd be able to do this without you," he chuckled, eyes closing after a moment. That was the last energy he had, the redhead fast asleep seconds later.
When JungMin was asleep, HyunJoong reached over and turned the light out before covering the two of them up. Laying back down, HyunJoong, not very tired, simply lay there, his sleeping boyfriend in his arms, and watched him sleep before he too fell asleep a while later.
Authors:
renichifreak and
yeonah
Chapter: 11/?
Fandom: SS501, cameos by KARA, U-KISS, Super Junior and BEAST
Pairings: KyuSaeng, HyunMin, SooBum (may be other pairings in the future)
Rating: PG-16
Warning: Angst, AU, Fluff
Summary: Not everything is as it seems, and for those who are as far from normal as you can get, life is a bleak existence. The only ones who can truly understand what these individuals go through are those...just like them.
A/N: YoungSaeng and HyunJoong are played by
renichifreak and KyuJong and JungMin are played by me.
YoungSaeng watched the exchange in something akin to amusement. He could tell that JungMin was happy to be out of the infirmary and back around other people, but he was also well aware that JungMin was not a person who could sit still for extended periods of time.
Hesitating far longer than he liked, YoungSaeng slowly reached out and patted JungMin on the shoulder, very much like he did to KyuJong so long ago.
Blinking at the pat, JungMin grinned widely at his best friend, bypassing the hesitance and just being happy that YoungSaeng had made contact. Which was much better than anything since they'd first arrived here. It hurt to see his friend so withdrawn again, but he understood, as the others did.
"Can I try walking again?" He asked HyunJoong after a minute, poking his side and looking up at him.
Seeing YoungSaeng's small gesture, HyunJoong had to smile before turning toward JungMin. "...Just be careful, okay?" he finally said, getting to his feet and helping the redhead to his feet.
"Yep," JungMin smiled, taking HyunJoong's hands. He wobbled when getting to his feet, needing to hold on to HyunJoong for a minute to get his balance back and stop the shaking in his legs.
KyuJong tried not to watch, not wanting to seem like he was staring. But it was horribly obvious the trouble JungMin was having just staying standing on his own two feet. For someone who used to take flying leaps off porches and jump out of windows and trees, it was painful to watch.
HyunJoong refused to move too far from JungMin's side, not once letting go of his hands. He did, however, loosen the hold so JungMin could pull his hands away if he wanted.
YoungSaeng watched closely as he saw that everything KyuJong had told him was the truth. The unsteadiness was unnerving as he was so used to the manic redhead running all over the place.
Taking slow breaths, JungMin was grateful when DongHae started messing around again in the middle of the room, taking the majority of the focus off of him. It was highly frustrating to be like this, and he didn't want to be the center of attention right now.
Once he was steady he took a shuffling, awkward step forward, having trouble moving his foot the way he wanted it to. He didn't let go of HyunJoong's hands, knowing his legs could give out at any time.
Like earlier, HyunJoong took a slep back for every step forward JungMin took. He had to remember to thank DongHae for causing a distraction so that JungMin could concentrate on the task at hand.
It was hard for him to watch the frustration flash through his boyfriend's eyes, but he said nothing, using his energy to be optimistic, knowing it was something the redhead needed.
Taking another awkward step, JungMin put all his attention on walking, putting one foot in front of the other and waiting until he was steady before placing the next foot. Every few steps his legs would shake and he would have to stop for longer, worried he was going to fall over. He knew YoungSaeng was watching, KyuJong and EunAh trying not to. JungMin wanted to do well, to prove he was getting better.
That idea was going well for ten or so steps. Then halfway through moving his foot, JungMin's front leg gave out and he fell into HyunJoong with a light yelp.
Ready just in case, HyunJoong started when JungMin's leg gave out, catching him before he fell. Once his arms were around JungMin, he tightened the hold, burying his face in the redhead's shoulder. "You did good, Min," he murmured quietly. "You'll get it, and before you know it, you'll be running laps around us all."
Unable to get his feet back under himself properly, JungMin had to be supported entirely by HyunJoong, fingers curled into the older boy's shirt. He drew in a shaky breath, resting his head lightly against HyunJoong's and closing his eyes. "I hope so," he murmured, the frustration clear in his voice. He was trying his best, but progress was so slow he felt he wasn't even going anywhere some days.
KyuJong turned his head away once he was sure JungMin was okay, feeling like he was intruding on something by watching them. Instead he kissed YoungSaeng's temple softly, running his hand along the older boy's arm.
YoungSaeng leaned into KyuJong's touch before closing his eyes, giving the couple a moment. It hurt him to see JungMin like that, but the redhead was stubborn and HyunJoong was as well. The two would get through it, he was sure.
Running a hand through JungMin's hair, HyunJoong pulled back a bit. "Think you can try a few more steps, or should we just relax for now?" he asked.
Drawing in a slow breath, JungMin looked up at HyunJoong, lips pursed. After a moment he smiled a little. "A few more steps." He couldn't give up so easily, or else he was never going to get better. Even if he had to fall a hundred times first, he was going to walk again.
Smiling slightly, HyunJoong gave him a quick kiss before moving his hands to support the redhead until he was steady enough to do it himself. Once he deemed it so, HyunJoong backed away a bit, hold still firm on JungMin.
Wobbling a little, JungMin put his entire focus on staying upright, taking slow even breaths. He was grateful for HyunJoong's hold, sure he would probably topple back over a step or two in. That wasn't going to stop him from right though, neither was the painful ache starting in legs that hadn't supported his weight in nearly two years.
Finally he took another shuffling step forward, biting his lower lip. His second step had the pain increasing, making him wince. "Where am I heading anyways, or am I just walking until I hit a wall or fall on my ass?" He asked, chuckling quietly.
Seeing the wince, HyunJoong bit his tongue to hold back his concerns, sure they were easily seen anyway. Looking around, he watched HyunSeung push over one of the chairs. Smiling at him, he looked back at JungMin. "How about there?"
Looking over at the movement, JungMin blinked at the chair. After a moment he pursed his lips and nodded. "Okay." He could make it there, it was only about seven steps away. He took another step and stumbled a little, legs shaking as he held on to HyunJoong for support. Only once his legs had stopped shaking did he try moving again.
YoungSaeng watched as JungMin carefully moved toward the chair before his eyes fell on HyunJoong. He could see just how much this was affecting him as well as JungMin. Even with him being in the infirmary for so long, YoungSaeng was still able to see the dark circles under his eyes.
No wonder the healers were keeping him in there and not letting him work.
"...You can do it, Min ah," YoungSaeng murmured, voice still very quiet, yet loud enough for the redhead to hear him.
JungMin smiled at YoungSaeng's voice, squeezing HyunJoong's hands lightly as he kept going.
He nearly fell over one more time, holding on to HyunJoong until he could get his feet back under himself again. But finally he reached the chair HyunSeung had placed for him, and slowly lowered himself down with a sigh of relief, the pain in his legs getting to be unbearable. But he smiled widely despite that up at HyunJoong.
It took a lot for HyunJoong to not burst into tears when JungMin reached the chair. He could see just how much pain he was in, but he was still all smiles. "Told you so, Min," HyunJoong said quietly, voice cracking slightly as he returned the smile. "You'll do it, because you're too damn stubborn not to."
"Got that right," JungMin chuckled, not letting go of HyunJoong's hands. He felt like he'd ran for a whole day straight, and all he'd done was get halfway across the room. "But now I'm over here and there's nowhere for you to sit, and I don't think I can get back up," he pouted at HyunJoong.
Smile growing, HyunJoong leaned over to kiss his boyfriend before taking a seat on the floor right between JungMin's legs, resting his elbows on both of the redhead's knees. Looking up, he smiled a bit more. "Is this acceptable?" he asked teasingly.
JungMin grinned slightly, freeing one hand to play with locks of HyunJoong's hair. "Yes, if you have to be so far away."
Smiling at them both, KyuJong looked at YoungSaeng beside him, kissing his boyfriend's temple and resting against him. "See, he'll be fine," he whispered, knowing YoungSaeng was worried about JungMin. The redhead was weak, but this was much better than when he couldn't even stay awake for ten minutes in a row or even lift his hand.
YoungSaeng watched the two with a small smile and soft eyes, nodding when KyuJong whispered to him. He had indeed recalled when JungMin had first woken up and could barely move, so this was a vast improvement.
HyunJoong sighed as JungMin's long fingers began playing with his hair. He quite enjoyed the feeling.
The afternoon stretched on, people coming and going. A few of the new cell members wandered in to practice, away from JungMin of course. The conversation was light and easy, everyone taking the rare chance to relax.
Laughing as HyungJoon showed up and squawked as he was hit over the head by EunAh, KyuJong looked to JungMin and saw the redhead was trying not to nod off, looking like he might just fall off his chair. "I think some of us should probably get some rest," he chuckled.
HyunJoong laughed as he saw one of the new guys start a conversation with HyunSeung, the blond turning a faint shade of red before KyuJong's words made him turn. Looking up at JungMin, he smiled and nudged him before getting to his knees. "Alright, Min, hop onto my back and we'll head back to my room," he chuckled before looking over at KyuJong, and the boy curled up and practically asleep in his lap. "And you might want to worry about yours since I have mine," he pointed out with a grin.
KyuJong chuckled, running his fingers slowly through YoungSaeng's hair. "I'll bring him back up in a minute." YoungSaeng looked too peaceful where he was, KyuJong not wanting to disturb him.
JungMin draped his arms over HyunJoong's shoulders, managing to scoot forward on the chair so he could get onto HyunJoong's back. His legs were refusing to cooperate any further than that, still throbbing painfully though less than before.
Securing JungMin's legs around his waist, HyunJoong smiled at HyunSeung and the other boy as they helped HyunJoong to his feet without jarring his boyfriend. "Thanks, Seung ah...and sorry, but I don't know your name off the top of my head," he told the other apologetically.
"JunHyung," the new boy quirked a smile, pushing the chair back against the wall before one of the others could trip on it.
"See you both tomorrow, Hyun," KyuJong said, smiling at them. JungMin waved tiredly.
"JunHyung," HyunJoong murmured before nodding with a smile. "Glad to see you up and around. If you need anything, Seungie knows where to find me." Shooting a wink toward HyunSeung, who only bristled and turned a couple shades redder, he left the room, JungMin secure on his back.
YoungSaeng waved back at JungMin slightly, eyes barely open. He had been so comfortable that he had found it hard to stay awake. Once they were gone, he yawned slightly, but didn't move.
Looking down at YoungSaeng, KyuJong's smile turned gentler, and he ran his fingers slowly through YoungSaeng's hair again. "Want to head to bed too, Saengie?" he murmured softly. "More comfortable than the couch," he chuckled.
YoungSaeng pouted at the idea of moving, but nodded and flailed a bit as he pulled himself into a seated position. Looking around, he saw that SooHyun and KiBum had left, presumably to sleep as well, and EunAh looked to be nodding off on HyungJoon's shoulder.
Smiling, KyuJong stood up and held both hands out to help YoungSaeng do the same. "The rain's supposed to be stopping overnight, want to go walk around tomorrow?" he asked his boyfriend, loving how YoungSaeng brightened each time they went outside.
Too tired to control himself, YoungSaeng let a soft smile slip out as he nodded happily. He loved it outside. While he was getting used to the shelter, he would always prefer the fresh air.
Unable to help how his own smile widened at the expression on YoungSaeng's face, KyuJong got YoungSaeng standing and wrapped one arm loosely around his waist to keep him standing. "Night," he smiled to the others left, guiding YoungSaeng back towards the stairs.
Leaning against KyuJong, YoungSaeng blinked a few times before waving at the others who were still left in the room, letting KyuJong guide him out. "Thank you, Kyu yah," he murmured, referring to both the help, and getting him out of the room.
"No problem," KyuJong chuckled, heading up the stairs slowly. After a minute they returned to their room, KyuJong closing the door behind them and steering YoungSaeng to bed. "I'm just going to get changed, okay?" he smiled and kissed YoungSaeng's nose before backing up and getting a pair of pajamas from the dresser before heading to the bathroom. They still didn't change in the same room, KyuJong letting YoungSaeng have his space.
Standing awkwardly infront of the bed, YoungSaeng wrinkled his nose at the kiss and watched KyuJong gather clothes and head into the bathroom.
Sighing, he padded over to a drawer and pulled out a pair of sweatpants and a loose shirt of KyuJong's, changing quickly before walking over to the bed and taking a seat, his eyes focused on the door.
He hated the fact that so much had changed in the time that they had been apart, but with the addition of so many scars to his body and how thin he had become, he refused to let anyone see his body, even KyuJong. While he knew he had when they were dressing his wounds, he was also barely conscious, saving him from the pain of seeing KyuJong's face at seeing everything.
Coming back out of the bathroom a minute later in his pajamas, KyuJong went to the bed and climbed up behind YoungSaeng, smiling until he saw the expression on his boyfriend's face. "Hey, what's up?" he asked quietly, putting one arm lightly around YoungSaeng's shoulders and rubbing his arm.
Looking at KyuJong, YoungSaeng tucked his legs up onto the bed and leaned against his boyfriend, not saying a word for a while. "...I wanna go back to the way it was, Kyu," he finally answered. "I hate how I am now; I absolutely hate it."
KyuJong's eyes saddened, and he rested his head lightly against YoungSaeng's. He wanted to go back to how it used to be too, missing his self-confident, easy-to-laugh boyfriend...but he had faith in YoungSaeng that he'd be able to pull himself back up eventually. And he would continue to support him until YoungSaeng could stand on his own two feet again.
"It will go back to the way it was, Saeng," he whispered softly. "You're strong, and you've been recovering slowly. Give it time, okay?" He nuzzled his nose against YoungSaeng's hair.
YoungSaeng let out a heavy breath, closing his eyes. "This isn't like before, though. I just...I've never been this afraid to be touched before. I don't think I can handle anyone but you or Umma near me. Even JungMin scares me, and he's the one person who has never done that..."
He hoped and prayed that KyuJong was right, though.
KyuJong shifted slightly so he could tuck his fingers under YoungSaeng's chin slightly, tilting his head up. "It'll get better," he smiled softly, brushing his thumb over YoungSaeng's cheek. "It's all up here, Saeng." He tapped YoungSaeng's temple gently. "You know JungMin and the others aren't going to hurt you, just as you know Umma and I would never hurt you. You just need time for it to sink in again."
He kissed YoungSaeng's forehead softly. "Saeng, you touched JungMin's shoulder today, and sat right beside him. It was small, but it was something you would have never done a week ago. A week ago you couldn't be within a few feet of anyone but me and Umma. It's happening, Saeng. You're getting better."
Listening as KyuJong spoke, YoungSaeng felt tears build in his eyes. This is what he missed so desperately for the last two years. He missed KyuJong's constant and unwavering support. Not even bothering to wipe away the tears that slid down his cheeks, he shifted, burying his face into KyuJong's shoulder, whispering a thank you against his shirt.
Smiling gently, KyuJong wrapped both arms around his boyfriend and ran his fingers through YoungSaeng's hair, humming quietly. He whispered a soft 'I love you' into YoungSaeng's ear, meaning every syllable.
After a minute, he kissed the top of YoungSaeng's hair. "Come on, let's get some sleep," he murmured, shifting to ease them both back onto the bed to lie down.
Nodding as KyuJong eased them both down, YoungSaeng pulled the covers up and closed his eyes, resting his head on his boyfriend's chest. He was silent as they laid there, debating if he should say what was on his mind. After a moment, he shifted until his mouth was just by KyuJong's ear. "I love you, Kyu..." he whispered.
He knew that it would take time to return to how they were, but he needed to let KyuJong know that at least his feelings were the same.
KyuJong's smile eased out, and he kissed YoungSaeng's cheek softly, running his hand over is boyfriend's back soothingly. "Love you too, Saengie," he murmured in return, the emotion clear in his voice as he settled them both down to sleep.
*******************************
Once he reached his room, HyunJoong opened the door and stepped in. Looking around, he noticed that the room had been cleaned and his work organized. He had to remember to thank Xander later on.
"You still awake there, Min ah?" he asked quietly, not wanting to disturb him if he had fallen asleep.
"Mhm," came the sleepy hum from the redhead on his back. JungMin cracked one eye open, blinking blearily at their surroundings. "We're not in the infirmary?" he murmured, trying to focus.
"Nope. This is my room," HyunJoong explained, walking over to the bed and easing JungMin off his back and helping him sit. "I'm probably going to have to sit through a major RyeoWook lecture, but I'm sure we could both use some time away from there."
"Agreed," JungMin chuckled tiredly, rubbing his eye before looking up at HyunJoong. "I'm gonna set goals for myself," he smiled, trying to stay awake. "Tomorrow I want to stay standing long enough to take an actual shower," he laughed quietly, before flopping onto his side with an 'oof'. "...When I can move."
Smiling, HyunJoong got to his feet to search for clothes to change into. "You want to sleep in that, or something else?" he asked, nodding at JungMin's idea. "And goals would be good, especially if you keep them small at first," he replied. "And hell, even if you take a bath, the hot water'll help to relax your muscles."
"Yeah," JungMin nodded, blinking as he watched HyunJoong. "I'd say I want to sleep in something else, but I think my mobility for the day has been used up." He flailed a little on the edge of the bed to demonstrate.
"Well, I can at least help you with the shirt, if you want," HyunJoong suggested, pulling out a tank top from a drawer. He had to admit that while JungMin's power was so low and the risk of him hurting him was less, HyunJoong found the feel of JungMin's skin unbearably addictive.
"I wouldn't mind that," the redhead grinned, watching what HyunJoong was doing and trying not to fall asleep. "Your bed is much more comfortable than the infirmary bed."
Quickly changing and dumping his clothes into the hamper in the corner, HyunJoong returned to his boyfriend's side and motioned for him to lift his arms as best he could. Maneuvering the shirt off and taking a moment to stare, he helped JungMin get into the clean shirt.
"I made sure that I have one of the most comfortable beds, but don't let anyone know that," he murmured with a chuckle before sitting on the bed and scooting them both back.
"My lips are sealed," JungMin smiled, managing to roll himself over enough to drape himself half-over the older boy, nose buried in HyunJoong's neck. He'd noticed HyunJoong's gaze lingering of course, and wanted desperately to have long kisses with him like they used to. But it was all he could do to place soft kisses along HyunJoong's neck and collarbone, all he could reach. "Do they know how long it'll be before this isn't a problem anymore?" he murmured quietly, slurring his words a little.
Shivering as JungMin trailed kisses over his neck and collarbone, HyunJoong tightened his hold on JungMin before hearing his question. With a sigh, he shook his head. "It's hard to tell," he replied quietly. "The fact that you truly want to plays a huge part, so I think it'll take a while, but not as long as it could." He figured JungMin would prefer him to be honest rather than sugarcoat it.
Pausing, he tilted JungMin's head up a bit to kiss him lightly. "But as long as you're here, I'm happy to help." He wanted desperately to tell JungMin just how much he had missed him, but figured that the redhead had enough on his mind.
Smiling against HyunJoong's lips, JungMin kissed him back softly, meeting HyunJoong's eyes. "I don't think I'd be able to do this without you," he chuckled, eyes closing after a moment. That was the last energy he had, the redhead fast asleep seconds later.
When JungMin was asleep, HyunJoong reached over and turned the light out before covering the two of them up. Laying back down, HyunJoong, not very tired, simply lay there, his sleeping boyfriend in his arms, and watched him sleep before he too fell asleep a while later.