Always By Your Side || MinChan Romance

16.

Sixteen

Minho walked alongside Felix, trying to maintain a casual demeanor while internally grappling with the questions being thrown his way. He glanced at the storefront, its display showcasing cozy blankets and plush items that made his heart swell with the idea of preparing for the baby. But with Felix's probing gaze, he couldn't allow himself to get distracted. But it was a store designed for omegas which he learned Felix was as well.

As they wandered through the store, Felix's eyes sparkled with mischief, though he kept his tone light and playful. "So, what exactly do you do for my brother besides bringing him lunch?" he asked, casually picking up a cozy blanket and examining it. "He mentioned you've been a big help lately."

Minho hesitated, glancing around as if searching for the right words. "Well, I help him manage his schedule and... you know, keep him organized," he said, trying to keep it vague. "He gets really busy with work, and I just want to make sure he's not completely overwhelmed."

"Sounds like a lot of responsibility. But it's nice that you're there for him," Felix noted, his gaze intent on Minho. "I mean, not everyone would take on that kind of role, especially with everything he's dealing with right now."

Minho felt a warmth spreading through his chest, an unexpected pride swelling as he spoke. "I just want to help him out. He's going through a tough time, and I can't just stand by and watch him struggle. He's really important to me."

Felix's eyebrows shot up slightly, but he kept his expression neutral. "Important, huh? In what way? As a friend? Or is there something more?"

Minho shifted uncomfortably, aware that he was revealing too much. "Um, well... I mean, he's more than just a friend to me. We've been through a lot together over the years. I just want to make sure he's okay."

Felix smiled, leaning into the moment. "That's sweet. I can see that you genuinely care about him. But, you know, with everything going on, you have to be careful. It's easy to get close to someone when they're vulnerable."

Minho felt his heart race, but he couldn't help but continue. "I know it's complicated. But I feel like I've been there for him in a way that no one else has been. I cook for him, keep him company, and even help him with his work. He appreciates it, and honestly, I enjoy spending time with him."

Felix tilted his head, the corners of his mouth curling into a knowing smile. "So you enjoy spending time with him. What is it about Chan that you find so... enjoyable?"

Minho felt heat rising to his cheeks, caught off guard by the question. "He's just... really easy to talk to, you know? And he's funny, and kind. It feels nice to be there for him and to see him smile, especially when he's been so stressed."

"Seeing him smile, huh?" Felix repeated, his tone playful but probing. "It sounds like you have a bit of a soft spot for my brother. Do you think he knows how you feel?"

Minho quickly shook his head, feeling flustered. "I don't know about that. I mean, I'm just trying to help him. I don't want to complicate things or put pressure on him. He's still dealing with the divorce and everything."

Felix nodded, but there was a glimmer of understanding in his eyes. "Right, right. But you must admit, it's a pretty intimate setup. I mean, cooking for someone, spending so much time together... that's a lot of closeness."

Minho shrugged, trying to downplay it. "It's just what friends do. I want to make sure he's taking care of himself, especially when he forgets to eat."

Felix grinned. "Just friends, huh? But it sounds like you're doing a lot more than just what a friend would do. Sounds like you're really invested in him."