Warm Eyes | Hyunchan ✅

XXIV [Sheltered Echoes]

As Christopher and Hyunjin remained hidden in their woods hideaway, days slipped into weeks, and weeks became months. The dense canopy of trees served as a natural barrier, shielding them from the kingdom's people's inquisitive eyes.

Routines were developed in their private cottage. Even though there wasn't much to do around the house, they'd take turns doing the chores. They would have their breakfast quietly, contemplating their day. Hyunjin spent his days wandering the woods, finding hidden routes and secluded clearings where brilliant wildflowers flourished. He took solace in nature's embrace, seeking sanctuary in the peace of his surroundings. Christopher cared after the cottage, maintaining its protection and gathering resources for their survival. Their coexistence demonstrated mutual respect and understanding. Christopher told stories of ancient times and the world beyond mortal awareness, guided by years of wisdom. Inquisitive and eager, Hyunjin soaked up these stories like a sponge, incorporating them into his understanding of magic and the regions beyond.

A familiar yet unexpected knock rang through the wooden walls of this peaceful haven. As Hyunjin recognised the visitor-Elyot-his heartbeat sped. Elyot, last seen as a ghost of remorse, stood at the threshold, his face marred by disaster. Elyot opened his mouth before Hyunjin could say anything.

"Hyunjin," Elyot said, his voice quivering, "I've come to seek forgiveness... I've gravely wronged you, and I can't bear this weight any longer." Elyot's statement puzzled both Hyunjin and Christopher. Christopher was struck to learn that he was not the only one who knew Hyunjin's true name.

Hyunjin's gaze pierced Elyot's, an array of emotions flowing in his eyes. "Betrayal is a terrible burden, Elyot. But what has brought you here in this state?"

"My father... the duke, he's gone," Elyot grieved, his shoulders slumping. I've lost both him and my way. But I've also given up something considerably more valuable: your trust."

Christopher stood guard, his throat heaving with a low growl. Nonetheless, Hyunjin's hand gestured for calm, a nonverbal acknowledgement of Elyot's pain.

"I understand if forgiveness is beyond reach," Elyot added, his voice trembling. "But please allow me to express my regret."

Within the sheltering walls of the home, days became a ballet of sorrow and reflection. Elyot's presence, a mix of guilt and yearning for forgiveness, heightened the trio's unspoken tensions. As they resumed their talk, Christopher gave them some space.

"I've wronged you deeply, yet I find myself seeking comfort from you," Elyot's eyes met Hyunjin's. "Please forgive me, even though I know I don't deserve it."

Elyot was lured to Hyunjin's warmth amid whispered discussions and shared moments. Elyot summoned the fortitude to speak, his voice shaking but firm, "Hyunjin, I've carried this weight in silence for far too long." My heart breaks for you, for your forgiveness, for your love."

Hyunjin's breath hitched, his eyes widening in surprise, as if the parts of an unsolved puzzle had suddenly come together. "Elyot, love is a river with unforeseen currents."

"I've wronged you horribly, but my love for you is unwavering," Elyot said, echoing around the home. Allow me to prove myself, to fix the cracks in our relationship that I've caused."

Christopher watched the interaction unfold, an understanding glimmer in his eyes. Hyunjin's heart, which had previously been guarded, felt a stirring of emotions-a dawning realisation, a truth hidden beneath layers of confusion and treachery. "Words, Elyot, have faltered before," Hyunjin eventually said, his voice softened. "Actions shall be the guide towards reparation, if redemption is sought."