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The award show was in full swing, lights flashing and the crowd roaring with excitement as another performance took the stage. The room buzzed with energy, but Han could feel the walls closing in, the sounds growing too loud, too overwhelming. His chest tightened, breath coming in short, panicked bursts, and he knew he needed to find you—the one person who could bring him back to calm.
Hands trembling, he pushed through the crowd, eyes darting frantically in search of you. His heart was pounding so hard it felt like it might break out of his chest, his vision blurring at the edges. Where are you? he thought desperately.
Finally, he spotted you standing with your group members, laughing at something someone said. Relief flooded through him, and without thinking, he rushed over, tugging at the sleeve of your dress. You turned immediately, eyes widening with concern when you saw his pale face and the way his hands shook.
"Jisung," you said softly, voice full of worry and care as you stepped closer to him. "Hey, baby, what's wrong?"
He couldn't find his voice, only managing to squeeze his eyes shut as he clung to you. You understood instantly, wrapping your arms around him and guiding him away from the noise and crowd, to a quieter corner backstage. You held him close, whispering gentle reassurances into his ear.
"It's okay, my love," you murmured, pressing your cheek against his chest. "I'm here. You're safe. Just breathe with me, okay?"
Han buried his face in your hair, inhaling your familiar scent, the comfort of your presence slowly grounding him. His arms wrapped tightly around your waist as he tried to match his breathing to yours, focusing on the steady rise and fall of your chest.
"That's it," you whispered, running your fingers through his hair. "You're doing so well, Jisung. I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere."
Gradually, the tension in his body began to ease. His breathing slowed, and the panic receded, leaving behind exhaustion and relief. He didn't let go of you, though, still needing the comfort of your embrace.
When you felt him calm down, you leaned back just enough to cup his face in your hands, pressing a series of soft kisses across his forehead, his cheeks, and finally his lips. "You're so strong, Sungie," you whispered between kisses, your love for him shining in your eyes. "I'm so proud of you."
Han let out a shaky laugh, the corners of his mouth lifting into a small, grateful smile. "Thank you," he whispered, voice hoarse but steady. He clung to you a bit longer, soaking in the warmth and safety you brought him.
Just then, Bang Chan appeared around the corner, his face etched with worry. He had been searching for both of you when he noticed Han wasn't around and grew concerned. When he saw the two of you together, his shoulders sagged in relief.
"There you are," Chan said, coming over quickly but carefully. "I was worried sick. Are you okay, Jisung?"
Han nodded, a little sheepish but comforted by both your and Chan's presence. "Yeah, I... I am now," he said, giving you a small, grateful smile before looking back at Chan.
Chan sighed in relief, his own tension easing. "I'm glad. Take your time, alright? No rush to get back," he said gently, his leader instincts in full swing.
You exchanged a warm smile with Chan, silently thanking him for understanding. Then, you turned your attention back to Han, who was still holding onto you, though his grip was softer now. "How about we just stay here for a bit longer?" you suggested, brushing a stray piece of hair from his forehead.
Han nodded, resting his forehead against yours and finally feeling at peace. As long as he had you, he knew he'd be okay.
