linnie3333
"Can't hang out. Sorry."
Felix's world feels small, quiet, and heavy. The bright, bubbly energy he used to have is hidden behind oversized sweaters and pulled-up hoods. He spends most of his days walking on eggshells, constantly checking his phone with a racing heart, anxious about his partner's unpredictable moods. He has slowly isolated himself from others, convinced that this toxic relationship is the best he deserves. He feels trapped in a loop of exhaustion, just trying to keep the peace.
The atmosphere shifts on a rainy Tuesday evening at a cramped, late-night convenience store. Felix is standing by the glowing drink coolers, shivering slightly, trying to not get in Minho's bad spot. Hyunjin is there too, shaking out a wet umbrella and wearing a soft, paint-splattered denim jacket. When Felix accidentally drops a bottle of beer, Hyunjin helps him dodge abuse. Their eyes meet under the harsh fluorescent lights, and Hyunjin offers a warm, easy note that catches Felix completely off.
When Hyunjin gently tells Felix that he deserves to be treated with real care, Felix immediately builds a wall. He tells Hyunjin they can only be casual friends who hang out occasionally. Hyunjin nods, completely accepting the boundary without pushing for more. Over the next few weeks, they establish a routine of meeting at the same spot, sharing quiet conversations that slowly teach Felix what a safe connection actually feels like.
"I think I realized I deserve you more than anyone."