𝐁𝐄𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐈𝐅𝐔𝐋 𝐁𝐎𝐘 || 𝐇𝐘𝐔𝐍𝐋𝐈𝐗

Chapter 2

Twilight - bôa
───✱*.｡:｡✱*.:｡✧*.｡✰*.:｡✧*.｡:｡*.｡✱ ───

Felix knew it was a bad idea to do it again, but the feeling of being carefree, even just for a little while, was addictive. The last time he smoked with Jisung and Changbin, it felt like he could finally breathe like the weight of the world had been lifted off his shoulders. This time, it wasn't any different. He'd gotten the hang of it now, moving through the motions without hesitation.

Just like a few days ago, he found himself in the same spot in Jisung's cluttered room, a haze of smoke swirling lazily in the air. But tonight had a different vibe. Instead of their usual banter, they were lounging quietly, watching Howl's Moving Castle on the small TV propped up on a stack of old video games. It had been their favorite movie since they were kids. The glowing screen flickered in the dim light, casting soft shadows across their faces as they tore through bags of snacks like they always did during movie nights.

Felix had texted his mom earlier, letting her know he'd be staying out a little later. He figured if he was responsible about it, she wouldn't worry. His mom didn't ask questions. She never did anymore, not since the funeral. She just wanted him to be happy, and Felix hated that. The fact that she trusted him now felt like a burden.

Halfway through the movie, Jisung turned the volume down and rolled over to face Felix. "So, when are you coming back to school?"

School. Right. Felix hadn't thought about it at all. "Uh, I don't know," he mumbled. "I think I'll be okay... it's starting next week, right?"

Jisung chuckled. "Yeah, man. No rush. I just... I miss having you in math. I can't deal with Mr. Kim's lectures by myself." His voice was light, but Felix could hear the underlying concern.

Changbin chimed in from his spot on the floor, smiling softly. "Yeah, no pressure, Lix. Just take it one day at a time."

Felix felt a wave of gratitude, the kind that made his chest tighten. "Thanks, you guys... seriously, it means a lot," he muttered before dropping onto the floor, pulling them both into a tight, clumsy hug.

When the movie finally ended, Felix gathered his things, bid his goodbyes, and skateboarded home, humming softly to himself. The cool night air hit his face, and though he was still slightly out of it, but for once he felt a bit... happy. It was fleeting, but it was there.

By the time he stumbled inside, he was giggling quietly to himself, his feet tangled in the laces of his shoes as he flopped down to untie them. His mom must've heard the noise because she came out of her room, tying her robe as she approached.

"Lix? Is that you, baby?" Her voice was soft, like she'd been dozing off.

Still giggling, Felix looked up and smiled at her. She walked closer, standing over him and gently running her fingers through his messy hair. He closed his eyes and leaned into her touch, feeling a strange mix of guilt and comfort. He stood up, wrapping his arms around her in a tight hug, the kind he hadn't given in months.

"Oh—" His mom's eyes widened, and she blinked in surprise. "Felix, baby, what's that smell?" She pulled back slightly, sniffing at his clothes, her expression shifting from confused to concerned.

"N-nothing, Mom," he stammered, clearing his throat and pulling away. "I'm, uh, going to bed now. Goodnight." He bolted upstairs before she could say anything else.

"Goodnight, baby. I love you," she called after him, her voice trailing off with a sigh.

Felix closed his bedroom door, leaning against it for a moment. His heart pounded in his chest. He hated lying to her, but what else could he do? All she wanted was for him to be happy, and all he wanted was to feel... normal. He wished he could tell her, but what would she even say? She didn't need another problem to worry about. She'd been through enough already.