Unlock Chapter Two
Title: Unlock
Chapter: 2/?
Fandom: SS501
Pairings: KyuSaeng
Rating: PG-16
Warning: Angst, AU
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: This is an ongoing roleplay between myself and Carey (renichifreak ). I play KyuJong and she plays YoungSaeng, and this is our logs jammed together xD
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Class passed rather uneventfully; it was still the first day after all. KyuJong was called once or twice to read passages in the book, but he noticed YoungSaeng beside him was never called. He stole glances at his roommate every now and then, wondering how he avoided the teacher's attention so well.
YoungSaeng noticed the glances that he received from his classmates, KyuJong included. Sighing, YoungSaeng slid down in his chair a bit more. Maybe he could explain a bit to KyuJong. He seemed nice enough, but he wasn't sure. Eventually, maybe...but not yet.
Once class was over, KyuJong gathered all his books together and stood, watching the students start to leave the class. It was around time for lunch, but he was thinking of using the time to look around for a bit, find the rest of his classes. YoungSaeng wouldn't be around all the time to drag him from room to room, and he was sure his lack of direction must be annoying to the other.
"School's going well so far, isn't it?" he questioned absently, looking to YoungSaeng with a smile. He chose not to say anything about how invisible YoungSaeng had been in class.
Gathering his things, YoungSaeng stood. He nodded at KyuJong's question. It definitely could have been worse.
He opened his mouth, only to close it again before murmuring, "Do you want a tour? I'm not hungry today."
KyuJong blinked at the offer, then smiled again. "If you don't mind, that would be fantastic," he said with a chuckle. "Need to find my way around here eventually. It's not too much of a bother?" he questioned, eyes on YoungSaeng's face. He never would have expected the other boy to offer.
YoungSaeng shook his head and motioned toward the left, deciding to lead him through his schedule before anything.
KyuJong followed YoungSaeng, his schedule already out as he looked at the room numbers they were passing. They seemed to more-or-less follow in order, but then every now and then they'd jump to a random number and he was lost again. "Most of my classes seem to be in this general area..." KyuJong murmured, looking at the numbers on his schedule. A look of confusion passed over his face, and he shifted closer to YoungSaeng to show the other. "What do you think?"
YoungSaeng stopped and took the schedule, focusing on it. After a moment, he nodded. "You work your way this way and back again...it's pretty simple," he murmured, handing it back.
KyuJong nodded slightly, eyes running over the paper. "What about this one?" He asked hesitantly, pointing to his acting class. The room number seemed completely different from the others. He had it next too; wouldn't it be just his luck to get lost on the way to what he assumed would be his favorite class.
"Take the first corridor left after our last class," YoungSaeng explained, leading him there. KyuJong was lucky. His schedule was pretty easy.
YoungSaeng's, on the other hand, was all over the place. On top of that, one of the stipulations to his release was that he had to see a therapist, which meant leaving the school during his only break. Luckily, the woman's office was nearby, so his mother would pick him up, bring him to his session, and return him in time for his last class.
KyuJong followed YoungSaeng, glad the younger boy was helping him. When they stopped outside his acting class, KyuJong took careful note of the hallway they'd come down and the other classes around, determined to not become lost. He was still in trouble if he wandered out of this general area, but as long as he knew where his classes were then it was a start. "Thank you," he chuckled, relief in his voice. "Are your classes near here too?" he questioned, looking over at the younger male.
YoungSaeng watched as KyuJong studied where he was going carefully. At the question, he sighed, shaking his head.
KyuJong, taking note of the sigh, smiled sheepishly. "I'm sorry, I'm probably a bother," he apologized. "I should be okay for now, thank you for your help." The last thing he wanted to do was annoy his roommate, especially when he wanted to get to know the other boy more.
"No bother."
YoungSaeng felt bad that he couldn't reassure the other any better, but he just couldn't do it, as much as he wanted to.
KyuJong just smiled at him. "I won't take up anymore of your time, it's lunch anyways. I'll just stay here until class starts again." He could easily jump ahead in time to prevent boredom, but why use his power for such a small reason? He'd rather wait, and enjoy the break. The cafeteria was a no-no anyways; with so many people it was all too easy for him to lose focus and jump.
YoungSaeng bit his lip and leaned against the wall. He remembered his tour when he and his parents made it to the cafeteria. He nearly had another episode since there had been a murder/suicide in that room. "I, don't like the cafeteria...too many people there," he whispered.
"I agree with you there," KyuJong chuckled, leaning against the opposite wall of the small hallway. "There's too many people in this school period. It must be over capacity." There were people everywhere, even now when most students would be in the cafeteria. That could be potentially dangerous, but he wasn't going to say so. "I wonder if the library is as crowded," he mused. It was the only place he could think of other than their room that could be quiet in the least.
Tilting his head, YoungSaeng tugged on KyuJong's shirt and pointed in the direction of the Library. On his way there, he began hearing whispers that he knew that the other boy wouldn't hear, making him slightly dizzy, but it wasn't too bad this time.
Amused at how the other student kept tugging his shirt, KyuJong followed YoungSaeng as the other boy walked in the direction he assumed the library was in. There shouldn't be many students there now, considering it was only the first day of school. How many teachers would have given out research assignments during the first two classes? He made a mental note of the hallways they passed, so that he could find his way back.
His suspicion was confirmed when they reached the library, and looking through the glass doors, he noted the lack of students. "This is nice," KyuJong murmured. "Looks like it might actually be quiet."
YoungSaeng nodded, the voices getting slightly louder. As his head began ringing, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a medicine bottle and water, quickly taking a couple pills before following it with the water.
It was something that his doctor had given him. It managed to suppress the voices and he sorely needed that right now.
KyuJong turned away from the library door to see YoungSaeng taking a few pills. "Is everything alright?" he questioned, a light frown of concern appearing on his lips. He then had to get out of the way of the door as two students who'd actually been in the library left.
"Migraines," YoungSaeng said, his normal excuse for the pills. KyuJong would never believe their real purpose. No one would.
KyuJong nodded in understanding, still concerned. "Well...is there anywhere else you think I should see?" he chuckled. "I found the cafeteria already, believe it or not. I was looking for the dorms though." Out of all the places to end up, but at least he knew where it was now.
Thinking, YoungSaeng nodded and left the room, KyuJong behind him he hoped. He walked slowly, allowing his roommate to adapt to the environment before ending outside one of his favorite rooms. Opening the door, he stepped inside and up to the beautiful piano in the middle of the spare music room.
KyuJong followed YoungSaeng, curious as to where he was being led. He kept an eye on his surroundings, noticing the different hallways and where in them they were. Seeing YoungSaeng stop outside one of the rooms, he followed the other boy inside, and stopped in surprise.
"Wow," he murmured, eyes trailing along the piano set up in the middle of the room. "This is the music room?" After a moment he followed YoungSaeng to the piano, amazed at how well kept it was.
"One of them," YoungSaeng explained quietly, sitting down on the bench and lifting the cover.
KyuJong hesitated for a moment, and then sat down on the bench beside him. "How many are there?" he asked curiously. He didn't touch the keys, though sorely tempted, instead watching his roommate.
YoungSaeng lifted his hand, holding up three fingers. Noticing that KyuJong seemed to want to play, he shifted over, giving him more room to do so.
KyuJong nodded in understanding, wondering which one of the rooms they'd be in for their music class. For some reason he was looking forward to it even more than acting. Noting YoungSaeng move to the side slightly, giving him room, the older boy hesitated slightly. It had been a while since he'd played, even longer since he'd played on a real piano and not an electronic keyboard.
After a moment of thought KyuJong tentatively lifted his hands and placed them lightly on the keys, starting to play. He knew more than just the basics, and could play pretty well, but there was always something missing. That and his choice of song was rather limited; he only knew a few compositions by heart.
YoungSaeng smiled slightly as he listened to the hesitant playing. KyuJong was good, of that there was no doubt. He simply seemed to be thinking too much about the notes. He was playing too much with his head and not enough with his heart.
Digging into his bag, YoungSaeng pulled out sheet music and placed it in front of him. The notes were drawn in a bit sloppily, but it was still easily read.
KyuJong was distracted when he saw papers out of the corner of his eyes, the sound of the piano trailing off as he looked up at YoungSaeng. Seeing the sheet music, he blinked in surprise. "You composed this?" he questioned, amazed. Looking at the notes, he tried to imagine what it would sound like. KyuJong scooted back over so YoungSaeng would have room to play.
YoungSaeng nodded, but motioned for him to continue playing. He liked hearing him play. It was a very nice sound, and he thought that having music in front of him would help. He then reached out and pointed to KyuJong's chest, where his heart was.
A tinge of red appeared on KyuJong’s cheeks when he was motioned to continue. He didn't think he was that good, not as good as other pianists he's heard. Nevertheless, KyuJong adjusted himself to continue playing. He didn't quite understand what YoungSaeng meant when he pointed at his chest though, at least until he realized where exactly. Uncertainly, he looked over the new set of notes in front of him, repositioning his hands on the keys and starting again. It took him a moment to get into the new rhythm, brow furrowed lightly in concentration.
"You think too hard," YoungSaeng whispered. "Don't worry about messing up. Use your heart more, and your head less."
Hearing the other student’s soft words, KyuJong tried to loosen up a little, taking steady breaths. It was hard not to think about it as much, because just as he'd finally get into the rhythm and relax he'd hit an off note and have to find the rhythm again. He wasn't so good that he could get the song right on the first shot. But he tried as YoungSaeng suggested anyways, keeping his eyes on the paper rather than watch his hands so he wouldn't get as nervous.
Reaching the end of the composition, he bit his lower lip lightly, looking towards YoungSaeng and quickly moving back out of the way, wanting to hear the other play now.
Tilting his head when KyuJong shifted over, YoungSaeng sighed, but nodded. Moving a bit more into the middle, he laid his hands on the keys and began playing, eyes closed. After a moment, he slowly opened his mouth and began singing the words from memory.
Singing was the only form of expression for YoungSaeng, so while he would rarely speak, he would sing, and often.((Is This Love? is the song))
KyuJong watched his roommate as he started to play. He had expected YoungSaeng would be amazing at the piano, after hearing him sing, but it was one thing to think so and another to hear it. A smile formed on his lips as YoungSaeng's voice joined the beautiful music flowing from the piano. It was really amazing, how was it possible for someone to be so talented?
KyuJong didn't do anything to interrupt the other, eyes going to the hands moving gracefully across the keys before returning to YoungSaeng's face, watching his expression as he sang.
After the song ended, YoungSaeng continued to play another song, then another. He didn't sing anymore, but once he began playing, it was as if he couldn't stop. Turning toward KyuJong, he blushed when he realized he was being watched.
Listening to YoungSaeng play was really relaxing, and KyuJong had to remind himself of where he was before he lost track of time (which would have very different consequences for him than others). The younger male was so talented, he wouldn't mind listening to him play all day.
When their eyes met, KyuJong smiled encouragingly. "Amazing," he murmured, but that didn't even begin to cover it really. It really showed that YoungSaeng played with all his heart.
"Thank you," he murmured, hair blocking the blush still adorning his face. "This is the only way that I have to express myself," he explained quietly. It was also his chosen rehabilitation method.
"I see..." KyuJong wanted to ask why the other boy didn't talk much, but decided against it. It was none of his business really, and he'd known the other for what? Half a day? "Few people have the talent to express themselves so clearly like this," he said with a smile. "Thank you for letting me listen. Have you written more songs?"
YoungSaeng nodded slowly, still playing. Before he could stop himself, he asked a very odd question. "Have you ever felt so different from everyone else that there was no way you'd ever be accepted by anyone?" His voice was so quiet that he wouldn't be surprised if the other boy hadn't heard him at all.
KyuJong barely caught the question, blinking for a moment before becoming thoughtful. He looked down at the new watch around his wrist, imagining he could hear the quiet ticking from inside. "Lots of times," he chuckled, looking back up at the piano keys as YoungSaeng continued to play. "But... It's our differences who make us who we are, and I think somewhere out there, someone will be able to accept that. It's just a matter of finding that person." KyuJong lived in the hope that he wasn't the only one in the world like this. With the amount of people living each day, he couldn't be the only one.
YoungSaeng played on, deep in thought. He considered his roommate's words carefully. There had to be more people in the world with either gifts or curses. He couldn't be the only one...
Following the path of YoungSaeng's fingers along the keys, KyuJong thought about what they'd just said, unaware YoungSaeng was doing the exact same. Maybe when he was older, he could travel and search for those like him. It would be a start.
His train of thought was cut off when he heard the school bell in the distance, outside the class. Looking at his watch, KyuJong noted it was time for their next classes. "I was looking forward to class, but not so much now," he chuckled softly, looking over at his roommate. He'd rather stay here and listen to YoungSaeng play, even if his next class was acting.
Stopping at the bell, YoungSaeng sighed. He didn't want to deal with classes right now. His next was Creative writing, but he'd rather just stay where he was, playing the piano and being in the company of the only person he'd ever felt comfortable enough to speak willingly around.
Watching YoungSaeng stop playing, KyuJong wanted so badly to stop time, or reverse it, so that they could spend more time here. But that would mean giving himself away, and he wasn't ready for that yet. That, and he'd never taken someone through time with him before. So he resigned himself to going to class. "We can always come back, right?" KyuJong murmured. "It doesn't look like this room is used for classes often..." He picked up the books he'd placed on the floor earlier, standing reluctantly.
"It's not used," YoungSaeng replied softly, standing as well. Once he had his bag, he motioned toward KyuJong to lead them back to the main corridor toward their classes.
"Really," KyuJong chuckled. "It's surprising the door isn't locked." Seeing the motion, he smiled and walked out of the room, looking back at YoungSaeng hesitantly. After a moment of thought, he headed back in the direction they'd come from, being careful not to overshoot the hallways they had to turn down as always.
YoungSaeng shrugged, not really understanding himself, though it might have something to do with the private conversation his mother had with the music teacher when he'd stumbled across the room. Following him, YoungSaeng was impressed that KyuJong was doing so well already.
They continued on until YoungSaeng stopped, reaching his own class. "I suppose I'll see you in music."
KyuJong stopped when YoungSaeng did, almost reluctant to head off to his own class. "Right," he smiled, adjusting his grip on his books. "See you then. Thanks again." With that he started walking again, glancing back at YoungSaeng once before heading down the hallway his acting class was located.
***********
The day seemed to move slowly as YoungSaeng went from class to class. He recognized a few faces, but luck seemed to be on his side, as no one seemed to recognize him. While YoungSaeng was always shy and quiet, he had been friendly and a bit more open. His hair had been shorter and lighter as well. He spoke more often, though was more polite than anything.
Walking into the music class last period, however, he recognized someone, and he could tell that he recognized him, as well. The teen had been quite a bully in his early years, so it was no surprise to see that he hadn't changed his ways.
Deciding to sit far from him, YoungSaeng chose the furthest seat in the back and reserved the one beside him for KyuJong, knowing that he needed someone calming by him.
Acting went well, and was actually quite fun. It was something KyuJong had fun doing, while he wasn't the most dynamic person ever, and he did it well. By the end of the class, they were talking about putting on a play for the end of the year, and he couldn't be more excited. (Absently he wondered if YoungSaeng would come to watch if he asked.)
Gathering his books for music, KyuJong left the class and looked down at his schedule, frowning slightly at the room number. It was near his other classes, so it shouldn't be too hard to locate...
Luck was with him, as he only overshot the class once and quickly realized his mistake, getting into class a few minutes before it was to start. Looking around for YoungSaeng, KyuJong saw him in the back and made his way over, noting the empty seat beside him. "Hey, how was class?" he asked with a smile, sitting down.
YoungSaeng jumped, startled out of his thoughts as KyuJong spoke. He risked another look at the man, not liking that knowing smirk on his face.
Shrugging, YoungSaeng focused on his desk, his nervousness quite apparent.
KyuJong blinked, smile fading as he noticed the nervous air around the other boy. "What's wrong?" he questioned, wondering if something had happened in his last class. YoungSaeng hadn't been this nervous before. And wouldn't he look forward to music class, with talent like that?
Shaking off the nervousness, as he didn't want to worry KyuJong, YoungSaeng smiled slightly and shook his head. "Sorry. I'm okay."
Still watching him with concern, KyuJong wasn't able to reply because the teacher walked in then. Instead he smiled at the boy beside him, looking back at the teacher as she started talking. His thoughts remained on YoungSaeng though, even as they went through the activities planned for that year.
The class went by faster than YoungSaeng hoped, since it was mostly just to go over the class material and what they'd be doing. He looked over every once in a while to see the guy who's name he couldn't remember looking back with a smirk that scared him, to be honest.
The class was about to end when YoungSaeng slowly raised his hand, alerting the teacher that he needed to leave for his session. She smiled gently and excused him. Gathering his things, he stood and left the room, walking out of the building and getting into his mother's car that was waiting outside for him.
KyuJong lifted his head when YoungSaeng raised his hand, watching curiously as the other boy got up and left class early. Why though? The bell was going to ring in a minute anyways. Did he need extra time to get to his next class?
He was still pondering this when the bell went, the other students standing up and leaving the room. Glancing at the empty desk beside him, KyuJong gathering his books and left, schedule out as he looked for his Mathematics class. It was his last class of the day, so he'd be able to head back to the dorms after to get a head start on the little homework teachers had assigned the first day.
Chapter: 2/?
Fandom: SS501
Pairings: KyuSaeng
Rating: PG-16
Warning: Angst, AU
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: This is an ongoing roleplay between myself and Carey (renichifreak ). I play KyuJong and she plays YoungSaeng, and this is our logs jammed together xD
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Class passed rather uneventfully; it was still the first day after all. KyuJong was called once or twice to read passages in the book, but he noticed YoungSaeng beside him was never called. He stole glances at his roommate every now and then, wondering how he avoided the teacher's attention so well.
YoungSaeng noticed the glances that he received from his classmates, KyuJong included. Sighing, YoungSaeng slid down in his chair a bit more. Maybe he could explain a bit to KyuJong. He seemed nice enough, but he wasn't sure. Eventually, maybe...but not yet.
Once class was over, KyuJong gathered all his books together and stood, watching the students start to leave the class. It was around time for lunch, but he was thinking of using the time to look around for a bit, find the rest of his classes. YoungSaeng wouldn't be around all the time to drag him from room to room, and he was sure his lack of direction must be annoying to the other.
"School's going well so far, isn't it?" he questioned absently, looking to YoungSaeng with a smile. He chose not to say anything about how invisible YoungSaeng had been in class.
Gathering his things, YoungSaeng stood. He nodded at KyuJong's question. It definitely could have been worse.
He opened his mouth, only to close it again before murmuring, "Do you want a tour? I'm not hungry today."
KyuJong blinked at the offer, then smiled again. "If you don't mind, that would be fantastic," he said with a chuckle. "Need to find my way around here eventually. It's not too much of a bother?" he questioned, eyes on YoungSaeng's face. He never would have expected the other boy to offer.
YoungSaeng shook his head and motioned toward the left, deciding to lead him through his schedule before anything.
KyuJong followed YoungSaeng, his schedule already out as he looked at the room numbers they were passing. They seemed to more-or-less follow in order, but then every now and then they'd jump to a random number and he was lost again. "Most of my classes seem to be in this general area..." KyuJong murmured, looking at the numbers on his schedule. A look of confusion passed over his face, and he shifted closer to YoungSaeng to show the other. "What do you think?"
YoungSaeng stopped and took the schedule, focusing on it. After a moment, he nodded. "You work your way this way and back again...it's pretty simple," he murmured, handing it back.
KyuJong nodded slightly, eyes running over the paper. "What about this one?" He asked hesitantly, pointing to his acting class. The room number seemed completely different from the others. He had it next too; wouldn't it be just his luck to get lost on the way to what he assumed would be his favorite class.
"Take the first corridor left after our last class," YoungSaeng explained, leading him there. KyuJong was lucky. His schedule was pretty easy.
YoungSaeng's, on the other hand, was all over the place. On top of that, one of the stipulations to his release was that he had to see a therapist, which meant leaving the school during his only break. Luckily, the woman's office was nearby, so his mother would pick him up, bring him to his session, and return him in time for his last class.
KyuJong followed YoungSaeng, glad the younger boy was helping him. When they stopped outside his acting class, KyuJong took careful note of the hallway they'd come down and the other classes around, determined to not become lost. He was still in trouble if he wandered out of this general area, but as long as he knew where his classes were then it was a start. "Thank you," he chuckled, relief in his voice. "Are your classes near here too?" he questioned, looking over at the younger male.
YoungSaeng watched as KyuJong studied where he was going carefully. At the question, he sighed, shaking his head.
KyuJong, taking note of the sigh, smiled sheepishly. "I'm sorry, I'm probably a bother," he apologized. "I should be okay for now, thank you for your help." The last thing he wanted to do was annoy his roommate, especially when he wanted to get to know the other boy more.
"No bother."
YoungSaeng felt bad that he couldn't reassure the other any better, but he just couldn't do it, as much as he wanted to.
KyuJong just smiled at him. "I won't take up anymore of your time, it's lunch anyways. I'll just stay here until class starts again." He could easily jump ahead in time to prevent boredom, but why use his power for such a small reason? He'd rather wait, and enjoy the break. The cafeteria was a no-no anyways; with so many people it was all too easy for him to lose focus and jump.
YoungSaeng bit his lip and leaned against the wall. He remembered his tour when he and his parents made it to the cafeteria. He nearly had another episode since there had been a murder/suicide in that room. "I, don't like the cafeteria...too many people there," he whispered.
"I agree with you there," KyuJong chuckled, leaning against the opposite wall of the small hallway. "There's too many people in this school period. It must be over capacity." There were people everywhere, even now when most students would be in the cafeteria. That could be potentially dangerous, but he wasn't going to say so. "I wonder if the library is as crowded," he mused. It was the only place he could think of other than their room that could be quiet in the least.
Tilting his head, YoungSaeng tugged on KyuJong's shirt and pointed in the direction of the Library. On his way there, he began hearing whispers that he knew that the other boy wouldn't hear, making him slightly dizzy, but it wasn't too bad this time.
Amused at how the other student kept tugging his shirt, KyuJong followed YoungSaeng as the other boy walked in the direction he assumed the library was in. There shouldn't be many students there now, considering it was only the first day of school. How many teachers would have given out research assignments during the first two classes? He made a mental note of the hallways they passed, so that he could find his way back.
His suspicion was confirmed when they reached the library, and looking through the glass doors, he noted the lack of students. "This is nice," KyuJong murmured. "Looks like it might actually be quiet."
YoungSaeng nodded, the voices getting slightly louder. As his head began ringing, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a medicine bottle and water, quickly taking a couple pills before following it with the water.
It was something that his doctor had given him. It managed to suppress the voices and he sorely needed that right now.
KyuJong turned away from the library door to see YoungSaeng taking a few pills. "Is everything alright?" he questioned, a light frown of concern appearing on his lips. He then had to get out of the way of the door as two students who'd actually been in the library left.
"Migraines," YoungSaeng said, his normal excuse for the pills. KyuJong would never believe their real purpose. No one would.
KyuJong nodded in understanding, still concerned. "Well...is there anywhere else you think I should see?" he chuckled. "I found the cafeteria already, believe it or not. I was looking for the dorms though." Out of all the places to end up, but at least he knew where it was now.
Thinking, YoungSaeng nodded and left the room, KyuJong behind him he hoped. He walked slowly, allowing his roommate to adapt to the environment before ending outside one of his favorite rooms. Opening the door, he stepped inside and up to the beautiful piano in the middle of the spare music room.
KyuJong followed YoungSaeng, curious as to where he was being led. He kept an eye on his surroundings, noticing the different hallways and where in them they were. Seeing YoungSaeng stop outside one of the rooms, he followed the other boy inside, and stopped in surprise.
"Wow," he murmured, eyes trailing along the piano set up in the middle of the room. "This is the music room?" After a moment he followed YoungSaeng to the piano, amazed at how well kept it was.
"One of them," YoungSaeng explained quietly, sitting down on the bench and lifting the cover.
KyuJong hesitated for a moment, and then sat down on the bench beside him. "How many are there?" he asked curiously. He didn't touch the keys, though sorely tempted, instead watching his roommate.
YoungSaeng lifted his hand, holding up three fingers. Noticing that KyuJong seemed to want to play, he shifted over, giving him more room to do so.
KyuJong nodded in understanding, wondering which one of the rooms they'd be in for their music class. For some reason he was looking forward to it even more than acting. Noting YoungSaeng move to the side slightly, giving him room, the older boy hesitated slightly. It had been a while since he'd played, even longer since he'd played on a real piano and not an electronic keyboard.
After a moment of thought KyuJong tentatively lifted his hands and placed them lightly on the keys, starting to play. He knew more than just the basics, and could play pretty well, but there was always something missing. That and his choice of song was rather limited; he only knew a few compositions by heart.
YoungSaeng smiled slightly as he listened to the hesitant playing. KyuJong was good, of that there was no doubt. He simply seemed to be thinking too much about the notes. He was playing too much with his head and not enough with his heart.
Digging into his bag, YoungSaeng pulled out sheet music and placed it in front of him. The notes were drawn in a bit sloppily, but it was still easily read.
KyuJong was distracted when he saw papers out of the corner of his eyes, the sound of the piano trailing off as he looked up at YoungSaeng. Seeing the sheet music, he blinked in surprise. "You composed this?" he questioned, amazed. Looking at the notes, he tried to imagine what it would sound like. KyuJong scooted back over so YoungSaeng would have room to play.
YoungSaeng nodded, but motioned for him to continue playing. He liked hearing him play. It was a very nice sound, and he thought that having music in front of him would help. He then reached out and pointed to KyuJong's chest, where his heart was.
A tinge of red appeared on KyuJong’s cheeks when he was motioned to continue. He didn't think he was that good, not as good as other pianists he's heard. Nevertheless, KyuJong adjusted himself to continue playing. He didn't quite understand what YoungSaeng meant when he pointed at his chest though, at least until he realized where exactly. Uncertainly, he looked over the new set of notes in front of him, repositioning his hands on the keys and starting again. It took him a moment to get into the new rhythm, brow furrowed lightly in concentration.
"You think too hard," YoungSaeng whispered. "Don't worry about messing up. Use your heart more, and your head less."
Hearing the other student’s soft words, KyuJong tried to loosen up a little, taking steady breaths. It was hard not to think about it as much, because just as he'd finally get into the rhythm and relax he'd hit an off note and have to find the rhythm again. He wasn't so good that he could get the song right on the first shot. But he tried as YoungSaeng suggested anyways, keeping his eyes on the paper rather than watch his hands so he wouldn't get as nervous.
Reaching the end of the composition, he bit his lower lip lightly, looking towards YoungSaeng and quickly moving back out of the way, wanting to hear the other play now.
Tilting his head when KyuJong shifted over, YoungSaeng sighed, but nodded. Moving a bit more into the middle, he laid his hands on the keys and began playing, eyes closed. After a moment, he slowly opened his mouth and began singing the words from memory.
Singing was the only form of expression for YoungSaeng, so while he would rarely speak, he would sing, and often.((Is This Love? is the song))
KyuJong watched his roommate as he started to play. He had expected YoungSaeng would be amazing at the piano, after hearing him sing, but it was one thing to think so and another to hear it. A smile formed on his lips as YoungSaeng's voice joined the beautiful music flowing from the piano. It was really amazing, how was it possible for someone to be so talented?
KyuJong didn't do anything to interrupt the other, eyes going to the hands moving gracefully across the keys before returning to YoungSaeng's face, watching his expression as he sang.
After the song ended, YoungSaeng continued to play another song, then another. He didn't sing anymore, but once he began playing, it was as if he couldn't stop. Turning toward KyuJong, he blushed when he realized he was being watched.
Listening to YoungSaeng play was really relaxing, and KyuJong had to remind himself of where he was before he lost track of time (which would have very different consequences for him than others). The younger male was so talented, he wouldn't mind listening to him play all day.
When their eyes met, KyuJong smiled encouragingly. "Amazing," he murmured, but that didn't even begin to cover it really. It really showed that YoungSaeng played with all his heart.
"Thank you," he murmured, hair blocking the blush still adorning his face. "This is the only way that I have to express myself," he explained quietly. It was also his chosen rehabilitation method.
"I see..." KyuJong wanted to ask why the other boy didn't talk much, but decided against it. It was none of his business really, and he'd known the other for what? Half a day? "Few people have the talent to express themselves so clearly like this," he said with a smile. "Thank you for letting me listen. Have you written more songs?"
YoungSaeng nodded slowly, still playing. Before he could stop himself, he asked a very odd question. "Have you ever felt so different from everyone else that there was no way you'd ever be accepted by anyone?" His voice was so quiet that he wouldn't be surprised if the other boy hadn't heard him at all.
KyuJong barely caught the question, blinking for a moment before becoming thoughtful. He looked down at the new watch around his wrist, imagining he could hear the quiet ticking from inside. "Lots of times," he chuckled, looking back up at the piano keys as YoungSaeng continued to play. "But... It's our differences who make us who we are, and I think somewhere out there, someone will be able to accept that. It's just a matter of finding that person." KyuJong lived in the hope that he wasn't the only one in the world like this. With the amount of people living each day, he couldn't be the only one.
YoungSaeng played on, deep in thought. He considered his roommate's words carefully. There had to be more people in the world with either gifts or curses. He couldn't be the only one...
Following the path of YoungSaeng's fingers along the keys, KyuJong thought about what they'd just said, unaware YoungSaeng was doing the exact same. Maybe when he was older, he could travel and search for those like him. It would be a start.
His train of thought was cut off when he heard the school bell in the distance, outside the class. Looking at his watch, KyuJong noted it was time for their next classes. "I was looking forward to class, but not so much now," he chuckled softly, looking over at his roommate. He'd rather stay here and listen to YoungSaeng play, even if his next class was acting.
Stopping at the bell, YoungSaeng sighed. He didn't want to deal with classes right now. His next was Creative writing, but he'd rather just stay where he was, playing the piano and being in the company of the only person he'd ever felt comfortable enough to speak willingly around.
Watching YoungSaeng stop playing, KyuJong wanted so badly to stop time, or reverse it, so that they could spend more time here. But that would mean giving himself away, and he wasn't ready for that yet. That, and he'd never taken someone through time with him before. So he resigned himself to going to class. "We can always come back, right?" KyuJong murmured. "It doesn't look like this room is used for classes often..." He picked up the books he'd placed on the floor earlier, standing reluctantly.
"It's not used," YoungSaeng replied softly, standing as well. Once he had his bag, he motioned toward KyuJong to lead them back to the main corridor toward their classes.
"Really," KyuJong chuckled. "It's surprising the door isn't locked." Seeing the motion, he smiled and walked out of the room, looking back at YoungSaeng hesitantly. After a moment of thought, he headed back in the direction they'd come from, being careful not to overshoot the hallways they had to turn down as always.
YoungSaeng shrugged, not really understanding himself, though it might have something to do with the private conversation his mother had with the music teacher when he'd stumbled across the room. Following him, YoungSaeng was impressed that KyuJong was doing so well already.
They continued on until YoungSaeng stopped, reaching his own class. "I suppose I'll see you in music."
KyuJong stopped when YoungSaeng did, almost reluctant to head off to his own class. "Right," he smiled, adjusting his grip on his books. "See you then. Thanks again." With that he started walking again, glancing back at YoungSaeng once before heading down the hallway his acting class was located.
***********
The day seemed to move slowly as YoungSaeng went from class to class. He recognized a few faces, but luck seemed to be on his side, as no one seemed to recognize him. While YoungSaeng was always shy and quiet, he had been friendly and a bit more open. His hair had been shorter and lighter as well. He spoke more often, though was more polite than anything.
Walking into the music class last period, however, he recognized someone, and he could tell that he recognized him, as well. The teen had been quite a bully in his early years, so it was no surprise to see that he hadn't changed his ways.
Deciding to sit far from him, YoungSaeng chose the furthest seat in the back and reserved the one beside him for KyuJong, knowing that he needed someone calming by him.
Acting went well, and was actually quite fun. It was something KyuJong had fun doing, while he wasn't the most dynamic person ever, and he did it well. By the end of the class, they were talking about putting on a play for the end of the year, and he couldn't be more excited. (Absently he wondered if YoungSaeng would come to watch if he asked.)
Gathering his books for music, KyuJong left the class and looked down at his schedule, frowning slightly at the room number. It was near his other classes, so it shouldn't be too hard to locate...
Luck was with him, as he only overshot the class once and quickly realized his mistake, getting into class a few minutes before it was to start. Looking around for YoungSaeng, KyuJong saw him in the back and made his way over, noting the empty seat beside him. "Hey, how was class?" he asked with a smile, sitting down.
YoungSaeng jumped, startled out of his thoughts as KyuJong spoke. He risked another look at the man, not liking that knowing smirk on his face.
Shrugging, YoungSaeng focused on his desk, his nervousness quite apparent.
KyuJong blinked, smile fading as he noticed the nervous air around the other boy. "What's wrong?" he questioned, wondering if something had happened in his last class. YoungSaeng hadn't been this nervous before. And wouldn't he look forward to music class, with talent like that?
Shaking off the nervousness, as he didn't want to worry KyuJong, YoungSaeng smiled slightly and shook his head. "Sorry. I'm okay."
Still watching him with concern, KyuJong wasn't able to reply because the teacher walked in then. Instead he smiled at the boy beside him, looking back at the teacher as she started talking. His thoughts remained on YoungSaeng though, even as they went through the activities planned for that year.
The class went by faster than YoungSaeng hoped, since it was mostly just to go over the class material and what they'd be doing. He looked over every once in a while to see the guy who's name he couldn't remember looking back with a smirk that scared him, to be honest.
The class was about to end when YoungSaeng slowly raised his hand, alerting the teacher that he needed to leave for his session. She smiled gently and excused him. Gathering his things, he stood and left the room, walking out of the building and getting into his mother's car that was waiting outside for him.
KyuJong lifted his head when YoungSaeng raised his hand, watching curiously as the other boy got up and left class early. Why though? The bell was going to ring in a minute anyways. Did he need extra time to get to his next class?
He was still pondering this when the bell went, the other students standing up and leaving the room. Glancing at the empty desk beside him, KyuJong gathering his books and left, schedule out as he looked for his Mathematics class. It was his last class of the day, so he'd be able to head back to the dorms after to get a head start on the little homework teachers had assigned the first day.