𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 ; 𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐦𝐢𝐧

Paws and Heartstrings

Chapter Six: Paws and Heartstrings

Since Bongsik, Seol, and Nal moved in, Renjun had been pouring all his affection into his new feline companions. He'd nap with Nal curled up beside him, spend hours playing with the laser pointer and Bongsik, and sink into the couch for cozy TV-watching sessions with Seol. The scene was undeniably heartwarming, but it left Jeno feeling a pang of nostalgia for the attention he used to receive. He was genuinely happy that Renjun was enjoying the company of his cats, but he couldn't help but yearn for Renjun's attention, especially the gentle head pats that had become his little daily indulgence. At this moment, Jeno almost wished he could trade places with one of the cats.

Jaemin sauntered into the living room and flopped down on the couch, immediately picking up on Jeno's mood. "Aww, Jeno's feeling jealous again," he teased with a knowing grin.

"I am not!" Jeno retorted, his voice rising defensively. "I'm just happy that Renjun likes my cats. Definitely not jealous."

"Oh really? Then why do you keep glancing over at Renjun?" Jaemin's tone was laced with playful curiosity, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Jeno hesitated, his resolve faltering. "Fine, maybe I am a little jealous," he admitted reluctantly, his shoulders slumping.

Jaemin's chuckle was warm and understanding. "Well, why don't you just tell Renjun how you feel? I'm sure he'll get it."

The idea of confessing his jealousy was daunting for Jeno. They'd only been together for a month—what if Renjun rejected him or, worse, laughed in his face? Renjun did have a penchant for teasing. Still, Jeno couldn't shake the feeling that he needed to try.

With a resigned sigh, Jeno glanced at Renjun, who was completely absorbed in his interactions with the cats. Summoning his courage, Jeno tapped Renjun lightly on the shoulder.

Renjun turned around, his eyes widening in a mix of curiosity and concern. "Hmm? What's up, Jeno?" he asked.

Unable to find the right words in the face of Renjun's endearing expression, Jeno simply pulled him into a small, awkward hug. The act felt both comforting and vulnerable, and he struggled to articulate his feelings.

Renjun's initial surprise quickly softened into understanding, and he hesitantly returned the hug. "You okay, Jeno?" he inquired gently.

Jeno nodded vigorously, a smile creeping onto his face as Renjun began to pat his head—something he had missed dearly. The simple gesture made Jeno's heart swell, easing the tension that had been building.

Jaemin watched from his spot on the couch, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. Seeing Jeno happy was enough for him. As long as Jeno felt cherished and valued, Jaemin was content.