breathe # minsung

49

Sunday.

Jisung dreaded the impending day, his heart heavy with trepidation. He was afraid to approach Chan and even more afraid to confess his feelings. What if Chan discouraged him from pursuing Minho? The numerous potential complications scared him to the core.

Though knowing that Changbin was facing a similar dilemma provided a modicum of comfort, anxiety continued to gnaw at Jisung's thoughts relentlessly.

The three boys sat in their dorm, a heavy silence enveloping them, leaving Chan perplexed as to the reason for the summons. "So...?" he uttered, seeking an explanation.

"We, um, have something to tell you—or rather, ask," Changbin mumbled, grappling to find the right words to describe their situation.

Jisung nodded in agreement, encouraging Chan to hear them out.

With a deep sigh, Changbin initiated, "We have feelings for Seungmin and Minho. Well, I have feelings for Seungmin, and Jisung likes Minho..."

Chan listened attentively, his expression seemingly unperturbed, "Okay?"

Surprised by Chan's subdued reaction, Jisung queried, "Just okay? You won't say anything more?" Chan shook his head, "Our two-year dating ban has long expired, allowing you guys to make your own choices. However, I must warn you about the potential backlash you might face."

He continued, "Furthermore, both of you lead hectic lives, and being in a stable relationship might prove challenging. Should you decide to take on this challenge, know that I wholeheartedly support your decision."

Jisung chuckled softly, relieved, "And here I was worried you'd tell me to stay away from Minho."

Chan reassured them, "I won't hold you back; after all, you're humans before idols."

Changbin's smile grew sly as he shared his news, "This is great because Seungmin and I got together yesterday."

Chan and Jisung exchanged widened eyes, "Already?" Jisung murmured.

Changibn confirmed, "Yes, but we don't plan to go public anytime soon. He's dealing with a lot of stress these days."

Chan, seemingly preoccupied with his own concerns, sighed, "Felix and I haven't even exchanged numbers yet." Jisung snorted, "How is that even possible? Why haven't you guys?"

"I'm nervous, okay!" Chan pouted.

Changbin raised an eyebrow, "Nervous about what? He practically drools over you every time he sees you."

Chan explained, "That's precisely the issue. I don't want to feel like he only likes me because I'm an idol or finds me attractive, you know? Do you guys not worry about that too?"

Jisung empathized, "Yes, I worry about that as well. We can only hope it isn't the case. If they were solely infatuated with our idol status, wouldn't they be bragging about everything? Yet, none of them have publicly mentioned the upcoming promotion, which releases tomorrow."

Changbin chimed in proudly, "As for me, I'm all good." He crossed his arms confidently.

Jisung teased, "Surprised he even tried after you were a bit harsh with him."

Changbin retorted, "That was a test, duh. Hence, I have nothing to worry about."

Chan rolled his eyes at their banter, shifting the focus, "What about you and Minho? How are things?" He noticed the sparkle in Jisung's eyes whenever he mentioned the brunette.

"Everything's perfect, actually. I've been trying to spend more time with him since he's not part of the promotion anymore. Not to mention, his amazing kissing skills," Jisung gushed, his cheeks turning red.

The enchanting qualities of Minho were undeniable, and everyone enjoyed his presence despite his occasional reserved demeanor.

Jisung continued, "I think things are slowly improving. He got a job recently at a cat cafe." "We should drop by sometime to surprise him."

The other two smiled at Changbin's suggestion, "That's a great idea. The cafe isn't that popular, so we won't cause a scene," Jisung explained, sporting a wide grin.

Chan watched Jisung with a light heart, happy to see his member's genuine happiness when speaking about Minho. It warmed his heart that they had found romantic connections; they truly deserved happiness.

In the dance studio, Felix shared his excitement about their impending performance. Seungmin expressed exhaustion, but they all agreed it would be a fun experience. Despite Minho's absence, they tried to find ways to include him.

Seungmin's phone brought good news to the tired boys—Chagnbin had informed him that their dating ban was no longer. Therefore they could freely date.

The brunette didn't waste time explaining the situation to them, even dropping that he and Changin had gotten together the previous day.

The freckled boy couldn't help but exclaim, "YOU'RE DATING CHANGBIN?" To which Seungmin responded with a scowl, urging Felix to keep the information to himself for he didn't want anyone to overhear; he wanted their relationship to be secretive as for now.

Hyunjin's relief was apparent, knowing that Jeongin was safe from any dating repercussions at this point.

Felix couldn't help but admit, "I'm so jealous of you guys."

Meanwhile, Minho found himself pacing at home, troubled by messages from an unknown caller. He felt unsafe and unsure of how to respond or handle the situation. Fear kept him from reaching out to Felix or involving the authorities due to societal views on homosexuality.

He yearned for the comforting presence of his parents, wishing he could seek solace in their embrace. The overwhelming sense of self-blame consumed him, and he considered disappearing to avoid causing problems and protect himself from danger.

Tears streaming down his cheeks, he contemplated his uncertain predicament. Trusting authorities, friends, or even his family seemed impossible, leaving him with only his three cats as companions.

His phone rang with a chilling caller ID, causing his heart to race. Despite his hesitation, he answered, only to encounter an unsettlingly deep voice, distorted through a voice changer, further adding to his fear and uncertainty.

"It doesn't matter who I am. You've crossed one too many lines. I asked you kindly to stay away from Jisung and you couldn't even do that. from now on I'll make your life a living Hell. I'll run you out of Seoul, do you hear me?" The person seethes.

Minho clenches his fists tightly, "I haven't done anything wrong!" he defends. "But you have. You have tainted Jisung, now he's ruined. Because of you! You and your disgusting perverted ways. I bet you force Jisung to do things with you, you disgusting faggot. You should just die, you're horrible. Jisung probably hates you."

Minho's heart finally settled as he hung up the phone and took measures to block the caller, vowing to get a new phone with his first paycheck to ensure his safety. He reassured himself that as long as the person didn't know his location, he would be safe from any physical harm. After all, they were likely just a delusional fan, fixated on Jisung and acting on false assumptions.

Determined to stay positive, Minho reminded himself that he would notice if he was being followed, so there was no need to worry about that. With a deep breath, he wiped away his tears and headed to the kitchen for some water, finding comfort in his playful cat, Dori, and the bunny accessory Jisung had given him.

Thoughts of Jisung and their recent kiss brought a smile to Minho's face, giving him hope that their relationship might blossom into something more meaningful. He allowed himself to dream about the possibility of Jisung reciprocating his feelings, bringing a sense of excitement and optimism.

As Minho scrolled through messages from his friend Hyein, his anticipation for his new job grew. He felt encouraged by the details she shared about his work duties, particularly his responsibility for taking and serving orders. The prospect of meeting a new coworker, Naeun, who was described as the "cutest and sweetest girl alive," added to his excitement.

With these positive developments in his life, Minho felt that things were finally starting to improve for him. He cherished the moments of happiness and hoped for brighter days ahead.