𝘚𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 / 𝘎𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘻

𝑪𝒉 : 𝟕 𝑳𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒕 𝒎𝒆 , 𝑳𝒆𝒆𝒉𝒂𝒏 !

When Leehan opened the door, he was met with the intense gaze of Taesan. Panic surged through him, and he instinctively tried to close the door, but Taesan's hand shot out, stopping it. He stepped inside, his presence filling the small apartment.

Leehan shook his head, sweat beading on his forehead. He took a step back, then another, as Taesan advanced. "Please, I didn't do anything," Leehan mumbled, his voice trembling. "I wouldn't dare to do these things. I'm sorry. I'm sorry for ruining your reputation. I promise I'll leave. I'll migrate from here."

Tears streamed down his face, his words a desperate plea. The apartment around them was a mess—clothes piled up, books scattered, the kitchen overflowing with unwashed dishes, and countless mugs littering every corner. It was a reflection of Leehan's chaotic state.

Taesan's heart ached at the sight. He saw the table behind Leehan, a potential hazard. Without thinking, he grabbed Leehan by the waist and pulled him close, preventing him from backing into it. Leehan's panic only intensified, his words becoming a frantic jumble.

"Shh," Taesan whispered, his voice soothing. He cupped Leehan's chin, forcing him to meet his eyes. "Look at me, Leehan."

Leehan's eyes were wide with fear, his breath coming in short gasps. Taesan leaned in, his lips capturing Leehan's in a sudden, desperate kiss. Leehan's initial reaction was to push him away, but his strength faltered. He didn't kiss back, but he didn't resist either.

When Taesan finally pulled away, Leehan collapsed to the floor, sitting on his knees. Taesan's heart broke at the sight. He noticed the numerous pills scattered around and realized the extent of Leehan's distress. He sat beside him, pulling him into a gentle embrace.

"It's okay," Taesan murmured, his voice a soft lullaby. "You're safe. I'm here."

Leehan's sobs gradually subsided, his body relaxing in Taesan's arms. Once he was calm, Taesan helped him to a chair. "You need to eat something," he said, heading to the kitchen. He quickly prepared a simple meal, bringing it to Leehan.

"Eat," Taesan insisted, his tone leaving no room for argument. Leehan hesitated but eventually complied, taking small bites. After a while, he looked up, his eyes filled with exhaustion.

"I want to sleep," Leehan whispered, his voice barely audible. "But I can't."

Taesan nodded, understanding. "Come on," he said, lifting Leehan into his arms. Leehan's legs were wobbly from the medication, and he leaned heavily against Taesan. Taesan carried him to the bed, laying him down gently.

Leehan's eyes fluttered closed, and for the first time in a long while, he drifted into a peaceful sleep. Taesan watched him for a moment, then stood up and began to clean the apartment. He washed the dishes, tidied the living room, organized the books, and even did the laundry. He prepared some meals in advance and set them in the fridge.

By the time he finished, the apartment was spotless. Taesan made breakfast and then returned to Leehan's side, lying down beside him. It was already time for university, but he didn't wake Leehan. Instead, he watched him sleep, a small smile playing on his lips.

Leehan stirred slightly, mumbling something in his sleep. Taesan's smile widened as he gently stroked Leehan's hair. When Leehan finally woke up, his eyes widened in panic. Taesan quickly comforted him, laying him back down and whispering sweet reassurances.

"There's nothing wrong," Taesan said softly. "The rumors will die down soon. Just focus on getting better."

Leehan couldn't help but think about the kiss. He glanced at Taesan's lips, then pointed to his own, a question in his eyes. Taesan didn't say anything about it, instead urging him to freshen up and have breakfast.

"It's already late for university," Taesan said. "But you need to eat."

After breakfast, Leehan looked at Taesan, his expression serious. "We should go separately," he said. "I don't want more rumors about us."

Taesan nodded, understanding. "Alright. But remember, I'm here for you. Always."

At the university, the atmosphere was tense. The second exams were approaching, and the pressure was mounting. Leehan focused on his studies, determined to prove himself. Taesan watched over him, offering support whenever he could.

The journey ahead was still fraught with challenges, but for the first time, Leehan felt like he wasn't facing them alone. And Taesan, despite his own fears and uncertainties, was ready to stand by Leehan's side, no matter what.