Breathe Me In || Minbin ✔️

7

A thin stream of smoke rises from the newly cooked ramen bowl. I blow on it, wanting it to cool off so I didn't burn my mouth. Changbin sits next to me, already breaking his chopsticks.

"You look warmer now."

I glance over, nodding. "I am. The bowl is hot on the bottom. The wind is still a bitch."

He hums, slurping his noodles. We sit in silence. I didn't even need the ramen to feel better. I was already great before we stepped into the store. I guess I needed someone to talk to rather than be alone. I always end up somewhere when I'm alone. Why do I go places when I'm having a bad day? Most people would stay in their beds or homes. Was I searching for someone to talk to unconsciously? Am I truly that reliant on people? Or maybe it was the small chance of meeting Changbin out here again.

I sigh as the food settles in my stomach, making my entire body warm instead of just my legs. Changbin and I are sitting close to one another, almost touching. I wasn't sure if he noticed, but I could feel his jacket brush my arm every few moments.

"Why were you out tonight?"

The question startles me internally. I can't just tell him I've been so depressed that I can barely take being at home. I wouldn't even call it being depressed. I was... eh. Not particularly sad, but definitely not happy. What would you call that? Maybe slumped. I was in a minor slump. Was it minor?

"Wanted some air."

"Understandable."

"What about you?"

I wait for him to finish his bite. He blows smoke out from his out, letting the cool air soothe his burned tongue.

"Heading out to get more cigarettes. I ran out a few days ago, but was too busy to get more."

"You still didn't get any, did you?"

"No, but I can do it later."

I nod my head. We finish our food quicker than expected, which kind of sucks. I really like being around him. He's so carefree and bubbly. I love the energy. It makes me feel good.

What if I ask him over?

The sudden thought makes me jump into a non-slouching position. Changbin jumps beside me, looking at with me with confusion and slight concern.

"...are you okay?"

"I- um. Yes. Sorry. Got a chill." A blush heats my neck up and ears. I can't believe I'm so dumb! What the hell is wrong with me? Oh, my god. That's a stupid idea! Ugh. If I could facepalm, I'd be doing it so hard right now.

"Okay... anyway, since we're both finished, would you want to come over? It's not that late. We could watch a movie and then I'll walk you home."

I breathe in a small gasp before ultimately choking on spit. I cough, raising my hand to my mouth and bumping the almost empty bowl on my lap. A lot more than warm ramen splashes on my clothes as I continue choking. I stand, one hand fanning my clothes and the other covering my flying spit. It was way more full than I thought.

"Oh, my god-" Changbin stands, setting aside his bowl quickly and trying to help me peel off my burning shirt. I'm sure my face is red with how much pressure is going to my head. Fucking idiot!

I take in deep breaths, highly embarrassed as I'm dying. Even though it's very little spit, it feels like I have a full ass cup stuck in my throat. Changbin succeeds in taking my shirt off, rushing to dab away the liquid on me with the few napkins that we grabbed.

"Holy fuck, Minho." He frowns, patting my back to help me breathe.

"S-" I cough, pounding my chest. "Sorry."

He gives me a few minutes to catch my breath. I'm half naked with still slightly wet pants. The broth is cold now, but still uncomfortable. My stomach and thighs are still stinging.

"Oh, man," I shake my head. "I'm so dumb."

"You're not," he chuckles. "How the fuck did that happen? Actually, first, here." He slips off his jacket, wrapping it around my shoulders. I gratefully take it, the wind picking up a little. "Let's get to my apartment. We can watch a movie while I clean your clothes."

"I-it's okay. I'll just go home. I kind of want to get burn cream on my stomach."

"I didn't even think about that. Come on. My apartment is closer. I have some cream there. Do you need me to carry you?"

I stare at him with wide eyes. We stay like that until he puts his hands up in defense. "It was just an offer!"

I laugh. "I'm okay. Thanks, though."

"Alrighty. Let's gooooooo."