Eighty Two

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Dino had invited Minho on a night patrol. And as they exchanged stories and shared laughs, Dino felt a sense of connection blossoming between them.

Minho, with his kind eyes and easy smile, had quickly become someone Dino trusted and admired.

But as the conversation turned to their pasts, Dino felt a knot of anxiety tighten in his stomach. He knew he couldn't keep the truth hidden from Minho, not if their relationship was going to continue to grow.

"Minho," Dino began, his voice hesitant, "There's something else I should tell you." Dino sighed.

"Yeah? You can tell me anything." Minho reassured.

"I used to wear a muzzle," Dino said under his breath. Minho's eyes widened in surprise, but he remained silent, waiting for Dino to continue.

"It was... because of my packs elder council." Dino explained. "They thought I was too young and inexperienced. They said it was for the safety of the pack, but it felt more like a punishment, like they didn't trust me."

A wave of sadness washed over Dino as he recalled the shame and humiliation he had felt during that time.

Minho's expression softened with empathy, and he reached out to gently cup Dino's face, lifting his gaze to meet his own. "I'm so sorry, Dino," he said softly. "No one should have to go through that."

Dino's eyes shimmered with tears. "It was humiliating, Minho. I felt like I wasn't good enough, like I was always under suspicion. And I hated it, I never wanted anyone to see me as weak."

Minho shook his head, his thumb brushing away a tear that escaped down Dino's cheek. "You're not weak, Dino. You're one of the strongest people I know. What they did to you was wrong, and it doesn't define who you are."

"Thank you, Minho," Dino whispered. "I was so scared to tell you, but I didn't want to keep it from you any longer."

Minho pulled Dino into a tight embrace, holding him close. "I'm glad you told me," he whispered. "And I promise, I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

Dino felt a lump form in his throat as he struggled to contain his emotions. He had feared that revealing his past would drive Minho away, but instead, it seemed to do the opisite.

"Thank you, Minho," Dino repeated.

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