nurse's office | minsung ✓

13

The next day, Jisung waited nervously outside the school. His heart pounded in his chest, but not just because of what he was about to propose to Minho. It was also because every time they were together, he felt something—something he couldn't quite explain yet, but it was there.

When Minho finally arrived, he looked as composed as ever, his usual calm demeanor in place. But Jisung noticed the flicker of curiosity in his eyes. "What's this about?" Minho asked, raising an eyebrow as he approached.

"You'll see," Jisung grinned, leading him toward the small café just around the corner. It wasn't much, but it was cozy, and Jisung figured they could use a change of scenery from the school.

They settled into a corner booth, the soft hum of background chatter filling the space between them. Jisung pulled out his laptop, flipping it open and turning it toward Minho.

"I know this might sound crazy, but I found some options for you," Jisung began, his voice tentative but filled with hope. "You know, ways you could finish your degree. Like night classes or online programs. And there are even scholarships you could apply for."

Minho's expression softened, but Jisung could see the hesitation behind his eyes. Minho glanced at the screen, scanning through the programs Jisung had found, but he didn't say anything at first.

"Jisung..." Minho began, his voice quiet. "I appreciate what you're doing, but I don't know if this is realistic. It's been years. I've got responsibilities now. The school, the job..." He trailed off, rubbing the back of his neck, looking away.

Jisung's heart clenched at the sight of Minho pulling back, but he wasn't about to give up that easily. "You're the smartest person I know," Jisung said, leaning forward, his voice filled with conviction. "You shouldn't have to settle for this. You can still finish what you started, Minho."

Minho let out a small, bitter laugh. "It's not that simple, Jisung. Life doesn't just...go back to how it was."

Jisung shook his head. "I know that. But that doesn't mean you have to give up on your dream. You don't have to do this alone. I'll help you however I can."

Minho looked at him then, really looked at him, and for a moment, the usual guardedness in his expression melted away. Jisung could see the conflict in his eyes—the fear, the doubt, and maybe...just maybe...a flicker of hope.

"Why are you so determined to help me?" Minho asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Jisung swallowed hard. He wasn't sure he had the right words to explain everything he was feeling, but he knew one thing for sure. "Because you deserve it," he said simply. "You deserve to be happy, Minho."

For a moment, neither of them said anything. The air between them felt heavier, charged with something unsaid. Minho looked down at the table, biting his lip, his fingers tapping lightly against the edge of his cup.

"You really think I can do it?" Minho asked quietly, his voice almost vulnerable.

Jisung nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Yeah, I do. And I'll be right there with you, every step of the way."

Minho didn't respond right away, but Jisung could see the gears turning in his mind. It wasn't going to be easy—Jisung knew that. But he also knew that Minho had the strength and the determination to make it work.

Minho glanced up, his eyes meeting Jisung's, and for the first time in a long time, Jisung saw something other than grief or guilt in them. He saw hope.

"Alright," Minho finally said, a small, hesitant smile breaking through. "Let's do this."

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