𝟮 𝗛𝗢𝗧 | 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗵𝘆𝘂𝗰𝗸 || 𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗪

𝗜𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲𝘀

The next day, Haechan found himself spending the night at Mark's house. Hope was out with Renjun, leaving the two of them to their own devices. But as the night wore on, Haechan's restlessness grew. He needed to meet someone, someone from his past.

Slipping out of the house quietly, Haechan made his way through the familiar streets until he arrived at a small, secluded spot. Johnny was waiting for him, a bag in hand.

"Haechan, it's nice to see you," Johnny greeted, handing over the bag. "I brought your medication."

Haechan took the bag gratefully. "Thank you."

Johnny eyed him thoughtfully. "I heard you're in a poly relationship now. I'm happy for you."

"Really?" Haechan asked, surprised by the support.

"Yes," Johnny replied with a nod, "but the real question is, have you told them about it?"

Haechan looked away, guilt washing over him. "No. And remember our deal."

"I know the deal," Johnny said, his voice filled with concern. "But what if I'm not able to bring you medication and you have another episode?"

Haechan's expression hardened. "Then I'll figure it out."

Johnny sighed, frustration and worry evident in his eyes. "You've done damage before. Let's not forget."

"That's why I ran away," Haechan said quietly. "They don't even know my real name."

Johnny placed a hand on Haechan's shoulder, trying to break through his defensive exterior. "So if all goes wrong, you're going to run away? What if these people actually love you?"

Haechan's eyes met Johnny's, the weight of the question hanging heavily between them. "Then..."

Johnny shook his head, his voice gentle but firm. "See, you need to be careful. You can't keep running forever. Sooner or later, you need to face your past and be honest with the people who care about you."

Haechan sighed deeply, the reality of Johnny's words sinking in. He knew Johnny was right, but the fear of rejection and the weight of his secrets held him back. "I know," he finally admitted. "But it's not that easy."

"I get it," Johnny said, giving Haechan a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder. "But just remember, you have people who care about you now. Don't push them away because of fear."

Haechan nodded, the conflict in his heart unresolved but a seed of resolve planted. "Thanks, Johnny. I'll try to figure it out."

As Haechan made his way back to Mark's house, his mind raced with thoughts of his past and the potential future with Mark and Hope. The road ahead was uncertain, but he knew he couldn't keep running forever.