CUPID (hyunho)

NINETEEN

A chilly night breeze and the earthy scent of the forest embraced Hyunjin as he stepped outside. Despite the late hour, the surroundings glowed with fairy and string lights, some wrapping around trees and others dangling from their branches. The night was exceptionally tranquil, filled only with the whisper of leaves, the croaks of frogs, and the chirping of crickets. Hyunjin could also discern the gentle murmur of water, likely flowing from the nearby lake. 

Beyond the house stretched a vast garden, adorned with an abundance of plants and flowers, that some of it Hyunjin couldn't even name. Earlier, Changbin had shared that someone continued to care for the place, ensuring its enduring beauty. Hyunjin was captivated by the dedication of this caretaker, profoundly impressed by their commitment to maintaining the rest house, evident in the pristine cleanliness and warmth that embraced both the house and its flourishing garden.

Hyunjin strolled a short distance ahead of the house and discovered a garden table with accompanying chairs. The wooden swing chair captured his attention, prompting him to approach as he seated comfortably he gently swung back and forth, his eyes wandered across the enchanting garden. The beauty surrounding him transported Hyunjin into a realm reminiscent of a fairy-tale world.

The idea of living here alone, with the freedom to pursue all his desires, crossed his mind. He longed for a peaceful place like this, where judgment and hurt had no entry, and his thoughts were solely his own. A place where he could be free, entirely and unapologetically.

Lost in deep thought makes Hyunjin spaced out as he gently swung on the wooden chair while his gaze fixed on the string lights above. Unaware, he failed to notice the approaching figure.

A sudden chill brushed against Hyunjin's cheek, courtesy of a cold bottle of water, jolting him back to reality.

As he glanced up at the person who had interrupted his thoughts, their eyes locked, and in that moment, it felt as if this person had stolen his breath away. His heart, in response, began to race wildly, beating like a drum in his chest.

"You okay?" 

Hyunjin blinked three times faster, his gaze still fixed on Minho. The lights behind Minho could be well-paid actors, effortlessly enhancing his incredible handsomeness even in the night.

"May I sit here?" Before Hyunjin could respond, Minho had already taken a seat beside him. Hyunjin's eyes followed Minho's movements, still processing what was happening. Unsure if he was in some sort of dream or if perhaps he had indulged in a bit too much, everything unfolding seemed too good to be true.

"Here, it will help you sobber up." Minho handed him the open water bottle. Hyunjin looked at Minho with confusion, then shifted his gaze to the bottle. Suddenly feeling thirsty, he accepted it. As the cold water flowed down his throat, reality hit him.

Minho is there, sat right next to him, talking with him. Though Hyunjin felt the urge to leave and avoid the man, his body seemed paralyzed. Something inside him screamed to stay, compelling him to talk with the person who appeared to be genuinely kind to him once again.

Right. 

"Do you need anything?" were the first words Minho heard from Hyunjin after five minutes of sitting next to him.

"Hmmm..." Minho hummed in response.

I knew it, it might be probably about—  Hyunjin's thoughts were interrupted by Minho's voice.