𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 | ᴊᴀᴇᴊɪ

𝟐𝟎

The midday sun filtered through the café window, casting a warm glow over the table where Chenle and Jisung sat, cups of coffee cooling slightly as they delved into a deep and personal conversation. Despite the casual setting, the weight of their discussion was palpable, marked by Jisung's somber expression and Chenle's earnest concern.

"Why don't you just tell him?" Chenle asked gently, his gaze steady on Jisung.

Jisung fidgeted with the sleeve of his jacket, his voice low and tinged with distress. "That my abusive ex is back? Hell no," he murmured, the thought alone stirring a whirlwind of anxiety within him.

Chenle leaned forward, his voice soft yet insistent. "We both know he will find out, and we know from you going to therapy that he is the reason you are a mute."

Jisung sighed, the weight of his secrets pressing down on him. "I know, but I know I'll freeze up if I try to tell Jaemin," he admitted, his fear of confronting his past aloud making his stomach churn.

Chenle reached across the table, placing his hand over Jisung's in a gesture of support. "Okay, Jisung, I just want you to be okay. From what I see, even after a petty argument, he definitely cares more than just for the agreement."

Jisung's eyes flicked up, meeting Chenle's. "He cares because he wanted the agreement," he countered, skepticism lacing his tone.

Chenle shook his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Yet you agreed."

Jisung exhaled a humorless laugh, his gaze drifting to the window as he watched the bustling street outside. "Because he forced me with that pretty smile," he said, half-joking but also revealing the deeper truth of his affection for Jaemin.

Chenle observed Jisung thoughtfully, understanding the complex emotions tangled up in his friend's heart. "Jisung, if Jaemin really cares—and I believe he does—it's not just because of his smile or the agreement. It's because of who you are. And if he truly cares, he will stand by you through this as well."

Jisung considered Chenle's words, the idea that Jaemin might accept and support him through even this ordeal providing a sliver of hope amidst his fears. "I want to believe that. I really do," he whispered, the vulnerability clear in his eyes.

"Then maybe it's worth taking that risk," Chenle suggested gently. "Talking to him could lighten your burden. You don't have to carry this alone, Jisung."

The conversation lingered in the air as they finished their coffees. Chenle's words echoed in Jisung's mind, a mix of fear and relief battling within him. As they stood to leave, Chenle clapped Jisung on the back, a firm, reassuring gesture. "Whatever you decide, I'm here for you. And I think Jaemin will be too."

Walking back into the afternoon light, Jisung felt a tad more fortified, armed with the knowledge that he had support, no matter what lay ahead. The thought of sharing his darkest fears with Jaemin was daunting, but perhaps it was the next step he needed to take, not just for the health of their relationship, but for his own healing. The road ahead was uncertain, but Jisung knew now that he wouldn't have to walk it alone.