Huniengkai txt - deaf

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@cutekitty63 hope you like it.
900 words.

The past few days in the USA had been a whirlwind for TXT. The group had performed, met fans, and attended events, pouring their energy into every moment. Now, as they made their way through the bustling airport to return to Korea, exhaustion clung to them like a heavy fog. All they wanted was to get home and rest.

As soon as they stepped into the terminal, they were met by a throng of enthusiastic fans. The crowd's energy was palpable — cheers, screams, and camera flashes filled the space around them. The members smiled and waved, grateful for the support, but the sheer volume was overwhelming, especially for Hueningkai.

Hueningkai had been born deaf, but thanks to cochlear implants he had worn since infancy, he could hear nearly as well as anyone else. Yet, there were moments when the world's noise became too much. Fatigue only heightened his sensitivity, and today was one of those days. Each shout, each chant, seemed to vibrate through his skull, amplifying the tension in his head.

At first, he tried to endure it, walking with his head down, focusing on his steps, and grounding himself with deep breaths. But the noise kept coming, relentless and sharp. A dull ache began to form behind his eyes, gradually spreading into a pounding headache.

Hueningkai reached up to subtly adjust his implants, lowering the volume. It brought temporary relief, but not enough. The headache persisted, growing heavier with every step deeper into the airport.

Beomgyu, walking beside him, noticed the slight wince that Hueningkai couldn't suppress. "Kai, are you okay?" he asked quietly, his eyes filled with concern.

Hueningkai gave a small nod, not wanting to draw attention. But it was clear he was struggling. The sound of the fans' voices swirled around him like a storm, each cheer feeling like a jab. As they walked further, his hands trembled slightly, and he felt himself withdrawing.

Finally, the noise became unbearable. His heart raced, his head pounding. He couldn't take it anymore. In a discreet move, Hueningkai reached up and removed his cochlear implants, cutting off the world of sound entirely. The sudden silence was jarring, but it was also a much-needed escape from the chaos.

Though the fans didn't notice his action, his members did. Taehyun's eyes widened slightly as he saw Hueningkai pull the implants out, and Soobin, ever the observant leader, frowned with concern.

Yeonjun, sensing the situation was escalating for Hueningkai, acted quickly. He leaned close and gestured gently for Hueningkai to follow him. Without sound, Hueningkai couldn't hear Yeonjun's words, but he watched his hyung's lips carefully. "Come with me," Yeonjun mouthed slowly, making sure Hueningkai could read his lips.

Hueningkai understood and followed Yeonjun, grateful for the escape route.

Once inside the bathroom, the quiet was a balm to Hueningkai's overwhelmed senses. He stepped up to the sink, gripping the edges for support as Yeonjun stood nearby, giving him space but remaining close enough to offer support.

"Rinse your face," Yeonjun said, his words slow and deliberate so Hueningkai could read his lips. Hueningkai nodded, understanding the suggestion. He turned on the cold water and splashed it over his face, the cool sensation helping to calm his frayed nerves. He took a few deep breaths, each one steadier than the last.

"You okay?" Yeonjun asked again, his lips forming the words carefully.

Hueningkai nodded slowly, his breathing more even now. "Yeah... I just needed a break."

Yeonjun gave a reassuring smile. "Take your time," he mouthed. "We're not in a rush."

Hueningkai appreciated Yeonjun's calm presence. After a few more moments, he dried his face with a paper towel, feeling more composed. "Thanks, hyung," he said, his voice quiet but sincere.

"Anytime," Yeonjun replied, giving his shoulder a gentle squeeze before they rejoined the others.

The group, now more protective of Hueningkai, formed a close circle around him as they navigated the remaining crowd of fans and made it to the gate. Finally, they boarded the plane, leaving the noise behind.

As soon as Hueningkai settled into his seat, he felt the weight of the exhaustion catch up with him. The low hum of the airplane engines was a welcome contrast to the cacophony of the airport. He reclined in his seat, allowing his body to relax fully for the first time in hours. His eyelids grew heavy, and he let sleep take over, the headache fading away into the depths of his dreams.

When he woke up, the world felt softer, gentler. The nap had worked wonders, washing away the tension and leaving him refreshed. Hueningkai stretched lightly and glanced around. Taehyun was awake beside him, scrolling through the in-flight movie selection.

Feeling more himself, Hueningkai reattached his cochlear implants, the familiar hum of the plane and the quiet conversations of passengers filling his ears.

"Hey," Taehyun said, noticing he was awake. "Feeling better?"

Hueningkai nodded, a soft smile forming on his lips. "Much better."

"Good," Taehyun said, selecting a movie. "Want to watch something with me?"

"Yeah, let's do it," Hueningkai agreed, settling back into his seat. The earlier struggles felt distant now, replaced by the comfort of the present and the quiet camaraderie of his friend.

Thanks for reading. If you have a story in mind don't hesitate. I take requests.

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