DLMLU ~ Hiatus ~

Whispering Notions

Felix lay sprawled on the soft comforter spread across the floor of Changbin's room, gazing up at the ceiling as a wave of loneliness washed over him. It felt hushed without Minho's familiar voice and laughter to fill the air. The room was dimly lit, with shadows dancing across the walls, creating an atmosphere that seemed to echo his solitude. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of strangeness at being here; usually, he shared a room with Chan, immersing himself in the warmth of their camaraderie. With its spacious layout and warm colours, Chan's room felt more inviting, perfect for their late-night chats and laughter. Lately, Jeongin's frequent visits have monopolized Chan's attention, leaving Felix in a corner of his thoughts. Switching his position to glance around, he noted how Changbin had generously offered him the bed, a tempting invitation for comfort amidst the chaos of his emotions. Yet, Felix hesitated. The thought of accepting the offer felt too intimate as if it would blur the boundaries of their friendship. Instead, he remained on the floor, wrapped in a cocoon of fabric and thoughts, longing for the connection he shared with Minho.

Felix was caught in a chaotic whirlwind of emotions, a tempest he could no longer contain. Each day brought with it a fresh wave of feeling. Felix surged and ebbed within him, leaving him breathless and with a sense of longing. He finally confronted the undeniable truth: Changbin was unlike anyone he had ever encountered. With his chiselled jawline, expressive dark eyes that sparkled with kindness, and charming smile that could light up the darkest days, the handsome doctor radiated a magnetic aura that captivated everyone around him. Whenever Changbin entered a room, Felix felt like time slowed down—his heart would race like a wild stallion trying to break free. The mere presence of Changbin sent butterflies fluttering wildly in his stomach, and Felix would often find himself caught up in moments of daydreaming.

Turning over, Felix allowed his mind to wander back to thoughts of Minho—the same brother who had carried him when he was sick, protected him, and ensured he had food even when they lived on the streets. The image of Minho selling his body to endure brutal fights in the underground circuit was a reality Felix struggled to accept. It was a side of Minho he never thought he would see.

Recently, Felix had overheard Jisung talking about Minho returning to those fights. They had always supported one another, so what was stopping them now? Was Felix being stubborn or irrational? The thought of Xiao, whom he had only seen once, was a constant source of worry, leading him to confront Minho about that situation.

Xiao was Felix's worst nightmare from that damned orphanage, and he struggled to understand what was happening in his brother's life. Minho's birthday gift to Felix remained wrapped with a tag that read, "Happy Birthday, Felix." Minho still made time to remember his birthday, even if they weren't speaking.

Felix's birthday was just a few days away, and Chan was upset with his attitude towards Minho. It felt nerve-racking. Chan was the first person to extend kindness to them and allow them to stay with him. He didn't ask for anything in return, yet Minho still went out to find a job. Felix spent much of his time cleaning and cooking to contribute. Seungmin, who was the brains of their group, was helping the others prepare for college.

The thought of college floated in Felix's mind—a dream that seemed within reach yet still far away. His reverie was abruptly interrupted by a soft knock on the door. He furrowed his brow in confusion; why would Changbin knock on his door? It felt nonsensical to Felix, but before he could ponder it further, Changbin strolled in, his fingers rubbing the back of his neck in that endearing way he always did when feeling a bit shy or flustered. Felix glanced up and sensed Changbin's discomfort as his eyes darted everywhere but at him.

"Hey, Changbin-hyung," Felix began, a playful tone slipping into his voice. "You know you don't have to knock; it's your room too." He raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the rare sight of his usually confident friend appearing bashful. Changbin's cheeks flushed a soft pink, starkly contrasting his otherwise composed demeanour.