umbrella ¦ na jaemin

ch ; 25

.・。.・゜✭・25 .・✫・゜・。.

Echoes of the Heart

"Dahee?" Jaemin's voice broke the silence, soft and tentative.

"Hm?" Dahee responded, her eyes still closed, but her heart beginning to beat faster.

"Can I promise you something?" Jaemin's tone was sincere, carrying an earnestness that made Dahee open her eyes.

"What is it?" she asked, turning slightly to face him.

Jaemin took a deep breath, the room filled with a gentle tension. "I want you to know that you don't have to face your struggles alone anymore. I'm here for you, and I’m willing to be your shield whenever you need one."

Dahee felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words. She listened intently, her heart swelling with gratitude for his presence. His promise was more than just words; it was a lifeline she hadn't realized she needed.

"Thank you, Jaemin," she said softly, her voice filled with emotion. "You've been such a great impact in my life already. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Jaemin smiled in the darkness, feeling a sense of fulfillment. "I'll be here. I care for you."

She closed her eyes again, a smile playing on her lips. Knowing Jaemin was there for her made her feel safe and cherished. As she drifted off to sleep, she couldn't help but feel hopeful for the future, grateful for the friendship and support Jaemin offered so freely.

-

Jaemin woke up the next morning, blinking sleep from his eyes as he sat up on the ground. A glance around his room revealed that Dahee was no longer on his bed. Frowning slightly in confusion, he stepped out into the quiet hallway, his footsteps padding softly against the floorboards.

The house felt peaceful in the early morning light, and Jaemin's curiosity led him towards the kitchen, where the comforting aroma of breakfast greeted him. His mother, Hyeongji, was there, sipping from a steaming mug.

"Oh, Jaeminnie, you're up. Come, have some breakfast," she offered warmly, setting down her mug.

"Morning, Mom. Have you seen Dahee?" Jaemin inquired, his brow furrowing with concern.

"Dahee? Why do you ask?" Hyeongji looked amused, her eyes twinkling knowingly.

"Has she gone home?" Jaemin pressed, feeling a sense of urgency.

"No, she's still here," his mother replied casually.

Just then, Dahee's voice chimed in from behind Jaemin. He turned to find her standing there, toothbrush hanging from her lips, looking slightly disheveled yet endearing.

Jaemin let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding, feeling a wave of relief wash over him. He walked over to her, his hand reaching out instinctively to ruffle her hair affectionately.

"Have you had breakfast?" he asked quietly, his concern evident in his voice.

"Yeah, I did," Dahee replied with a shy smile, feeling a flutter in her chest at his closeness. "I'll be leaving after this."

"Now? Should I drop you off?" Jaemin offered, his eyes searching hers.

"It's okay, really. I can manage on my own. You've already done enough for me," Dahee insisted, her cheeks warming with gratitude and a hint of embarrassment.