[UNBREAKABLE BONDS] (Yeonjun X Beomgyu)

Chapter 18: Shadows & Suspicions

As Beomgyu walked into school, he couldn’t help but feel the weight of everything that had been happening lately. Yet, there was a small comfort in knowing he’d soon see Soobin. The thought of having someone to talk to made his steps a little lighter.

In the hallway, he spotted Soobin waiting by the lockers. When their eyes met, Soobin’s face lit up with a warm smile.
Sb: Hey Beomie how is it going?

Beomgyu shrugged, offering a small smile back.
Bg: It's ok but... seeing u make it more better

They chatted about class for a while, laughing here and there as they exchanged stories about their teachers and assignments. When lunchtime came, the two found a quiet corner in the cafeteria to eat.

Sb: So tell me more about yourself Soobin asked, leaning forward curiously.
Sb: What's your family like?

Beomgyu hesitated, but there was a warmth in Soobin’s eyes that made him feel safe enough to open up.
Bg: Well I have my stepmom my dad &...a stepbrother. He's a lot older than me.

Soobin’s eyebrows rose in surprise. Sb: Whoa an older brother? that must be interesting. Is he cool protective?

Beomgyu’s face fell, his eyes flickering with a hint of sadness.
Bg: Not really. He's....he's pretty cold he's always been distant.  always hurts me.

Concern filled Soobin’s expression.
Sb: What do u mean?

Beomgyu took a deep breath, glancing around to make sure no one could hear them.
Bg: He hates me. He used to bully me a lot when I was younger & even now he finds a way to make me feel small he says hurtful words & sometimes......he hits me.

Soobin’s eyes softened as he listened. He reached over and gave Beomgyu’s shoulder a comforting squeeze.
Sb: I'm really sorry. No one should have to deal with that especially from their family. but from now on I'm here for u.

Beomgyu smiled weakly, looking down.
Bg: Thanks Soobin It's alot to me.

After a moment, he looked up again, a spark of hope in his eyes.
Bg: Hey would u like to come over for sleepover at my house this weekend? I think it would be nice.

Soobin beamed.
Sb: Of course! I'd love too. may be will watch a movie or talk about our dreams.

Beomgyu nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips.
Bg: Yeah just be prepared I don't know how Yeonjun will act around u but I really want u to come.

Soobin gave him a reassuring pat on the back.
Sb: Don't worry about me. I'll be there for u. no matter what.

That evening, back at Beomgyu’s house, Minnie was visiting, catching up with Yeonjun in the living room. After a while, she glanced around and smiled.
Minnie: Yeonjun can u pls call Beomgyu?

Yeonjun gave a brief nod, calling out for Beomgyu to come downstairs. Moments later, Beomgyu appeared, his expression hesitant. Minnie instantly noticed the look in his eyes—there was a sadness there, something that didn’t sit right with her.

Minnie: Gyu is everything ok?
Minnie asked, studying him closely.

Beomgyu forced a small smile, nodding.
Bg: Yeah I'm fine

But as he said it, his gaze flickered towards the wall next to the kitchen. He froze, his face paling as he caught sight of Yeonjun leaning there, watching him with an intense, almost chilling glare.

Minnie noticed Beomgyu’s reaction, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in the tension between the two brothers. She turned to Yeonjun with a smile, though her tone was a bit more probing.
Minnie: Yeonjun is everything ok between u two?

Yeonjun’s expression softened instantly, his mask slipping into place.
Yj: Of course everything is fine. right Beomie?

Beomgyu nodded, glancing down at his feet But Minnie didn’t miss the slight tremor in his voice, nor the shadow that lingered in Yeonjun’s gaze when he thought she wasn’t looking. A feeling of unease settled in her stomach, and she resolved quietly to herself, I’ll get to the bottom of this. Something’s going on, and I’m not letting it slide.

The next day at school, Beomgyu tried his best to act normal, but the sadness was still there, lingering in his eyes and in the way he walked. Soobin noticed right away, joining him in the hallway and trying to lighten the mood with a smile.

But before they could even start talking, Yeonjun and his group of friends turned the corner, spotting Beomgyu with the new boy. Yeonjun’s lips twisted into a smug grin as he strutted over, making sure to draw attention from the nearby students.

Yj: well look who's here.
Yeonjun sneered, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
Yj: Beomgyu found a new friend. Aww that's cute

Beomgyu’s face turned red, and he looked down, avoiding Yeonjun’s gaze. Soobin’s brows furrowed as he watched Yeonjun’s mocking attitude, feeling a surge of irritation build up inside him.

Yj: You know Beomgyu......
Yeonjun continued, his tone growing louder so everyone could hear,
Yj: I thought u liked being alone.... I guess not

The people in the hallway laughed, a few of Yeonjun’s friends snickering as they watched Beomgyu squirm uncomfortably.

Soobin couldn’t take it any longer.
Sb: Can u just leave us alone?

Yeonjun’s eyes shifted to Soobin, and he smirked, taking a slow, deliberate look at him from head to toe. He leaned in close to Soobin, his voice dropping to a whisper only he could hear.
Yj: You're pretty cute. If u weren't Beomgyu's new toy, I might have some fun with u myself.

Soobin’s jaw clenched, his hands balling into fists. He wanted to snap back, to tell Yeonjun to get lost, but he restrained himself, knowing it wouldn’t help Beomgyu.

Without another word, Yeonjun straightened up, chuckling to himself as he walked away with his group, leaving Soobin feeling both disturbed and furious.

Beomgyu, still shaken, looked at Soobin apologetically
Bg: I.....I am so sorry Soobin.

Soobin placed a comforting hand on Beomgyu’s shoulder.
Sb: Don't apologise It's not your fault

Beomgyu managed a small nod, grateful for Soobin’s support. He felt a bit stronger, knowing he wasn’t facing this alone. And as they walked to class together, he couldn’t help but think, Maybe things will finally start to change.

To be continued..........