Sanctuary for the Lost and Broken (Skz Fanfiction)

Jisung

 Jisung endured a rough childhood, unable to recall any memories of his parents. The orphanage, rather callously, expelled him once he reached the age of 18. However, in the midst of this harsh reality, there was a glimmer of kindness. Younghyun, an orphanage worker who had opposed Jisung's sudden expulsion, took him in.

Gratitude filled Jisung's heart for Younghyun's compassion. He had always admired the man, and now, with the opportunity to rebuild his life, Jisung was determined to seize it. He felt a responsibility to set an example for the younger ones still within the orphanage, to demonstrate that life's challenges could be overcome.

Driven by a desire to make Younghyun proud and prove that extending a helping hand wasn't a mistake, Jisung resolved to make a positive impact on the world, especially for children facing similar struggles. While he acknowledged he might not be able to change the entire world, he aspired to become a teacher, believing that even small gestures could make a significant difference. His dream was to provide support to the younger ones in the orphanage, offering the kind of assistance he had desperately yearned for.

In striving to be a source of inspiration and guidance, Jisung hoped to embody the kindness and care that Younghyun had shown him, becoming the beacon of hope for others that he himself had once needed.

Thus, Jisung poured his heart and soul into his studies, eventually earning acceptance into the Department of Early Childhood Education. For the first time in his life, Jisung felt genuine happiness. Younghyun beamed with pride, and with the assistance of a scholarship, tuition fees posed no obstacle.

Despite his academic pursuits, Jisung remained deeply connected to the orphanage, visiting regularly to share in the children's joys and sorrows. Whether celebrating a new home found by one of the kids or offering solace during difficult times, Jisung found purpose in being there for them.

His tumultuous childhood had forged him into a resilient individual, but even so, Jisung was unprepared for the discrimination he faced when applying for a part-time job at a kindergarten. The interviewer's words cut deep: "How can we trust that you're truly okay? Children raised in orphanages often come with baggage. How do we know you won't be a negative influence?"

Anger surged through Jisung as he struggled to comprehend the prejudice he encountered. His past, which he couldn't change, was being used against him in a cruel manner. Yet, despite the setback, Jisung's resolve remained unshaken.

In the face of the discriminatory remarks, Jisung felt a surge of anger, but he maintained his composure. Instead of letting frustration consume him, he replied calmly, "I understand your concerns, but my past doesn't define who I am now. I'm dedicated to creating a positive environment for children and helping them thrive."

The woman remained skeptical, insisting, "Prove it. Bring me a notice from a therapist confirming that you're mentally stable and won't be a negative influence on the kids."

Determined not to let this obstacle deter him, Jisung accepted the challenge. Fueled by a desire for independence and unwillingness to rely solely on Younghyun, he embarked on a journey to find a therapist who could vouch for his mental well-being. After some research, he discovered that his university offered free group counseling services.

Confronted with the need for proof of his mental well-being, Jisung proactively scheduled an appointment with Dr. Park, laying out the situation during their meeting.

Upon Jisung's request for a letter affirming his mental health and suitability for the job, Dr. Park approached the matter cautiously. Recognizing the importance of a thorough assessment, Dr. Park advised, "Jisung, I'm here to support you, but for an accurate evaluation, it would be beneficial for you to engage in our group counseling sessions regularly. This way, I can develop a more comprehensive understanding of your current state and ensure the sincerity of the letter I'll provide."

Caught off guard by the request but grasping its importance, Jisung nodded in agreement. "I understand, Dr. Park. I'm fully committed to attending the group counseling sessions regularly," he affirmed.

***

Thus, Jisung found himself juggling both a job and group counseling. His motivation for joining the group might have differed from others, but he was determined to make the best of it. True to his punctual nature, he arrived late to the first session, his anxiety only easing when Dr. Park reassured him that he wasn't excessively tardy.

As he settled into the room, Jisung couldn't help but observe the people around him. They were a striking bunch, and he couldn't shake the notion that emotional baggage might somehow be intertwined with their attractiveness. Yet, among them, one person's beauty stood out to him—Minho. With dyed purple hair elegantly framing his eyes and a nose as sharp as a knife, Minho's side profile seemed almost sculpted by da Vinci himself.

Caught in a moment of admiration, Jisung's gaze lingered a bit too long, and their eyes met. Feeling a sudden self-consciousness, Jisung quickly averted his eyes. Had he been too forward? Despite attempting to appear subtle, he found himself unable to resist stealing glances at Minho throughout the session.

His hopes of approaching Minho, however, were dashed when Minho promptly left the room as soon as the session concluded. Jisung couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment.