#minwon au ✧ Wishing on Dandelions ✧ When Mingyu opens his eyes for the first time in months, he’s greeted by the curious face of a stranger peering over him

• English Minwon au • Angst? Fluff? Maybe humor? • Medium - Long in length • Written thread • mentions of injuries / accidents • Please don’t pressure me with updates I’ll try my best • MinWon endgame

Mingyu blinks his eyes open after what feels like an eternity, his lids so heavy he has to put up a fight to keep them open His pupils adjust to the light, as if not accustomed to the light pouring into the room What room…

Mingyu parts his lips to speak, but his throat is so dry he can’t even force words out of his mouth His body feels like lead, his fingers like they’re stuck to the bed he’s laying on. Although, he seems to be able to move his neck. He turns to his right, and then to his left

There’s a person sitting by his bed. The man doesn’t seem to have noticed Mingyu’s awake. He’s far too busy reading whatever book is in his hand. Mingyu wonders what’s written in the book for this man to be so occupied with it. He needs this man to look at him. Right now

Mingyu musters the strength to raise his hand, his eyes trained on the man sitting by him. And as Mingyu’s strength gives out, his hand falls to his side, successfully catching the man’s attention, whose eyes widen comically and horrifically, as if he’d seen a ghost

Before Mingyu can even attempt to communicate with him, the man springs to his feet and dashes out the door. Mingyu’s heart sinks. He’s alone and he can’t move… He’s scared He doesn’t want to be alone… Just as Mingyu’s about to lose hope, someone appears

A nurse A nurse? Is Mingyu in a hospital? The nurse rushes to him and is soon followed by a Doctor. They all look at Mingyu with large eyes, they work around him frantically.

Light is flashed into Mingyu’s eyes, and he flinches “Stop that…” he says, and the Doctor gasps It feels so weird to talk. Is it supposed to be this weird? The Doctor and the nurse glance at each other, as if they’d witnessed a miracle. “Inform his family,” the Doctor says

— It’s after 20 minutes and rigorous medical examination that the door opens to a familiar face, finally. “Mingyu-yah!” the voice calls, and Mingyu turns to it as the nurse takes his BP “Hyung…” Mingyu mutters as Seungcheol runs to him and tackles him in a hug

Mingyu doesn’t know why his eyes brim with tears when his friend hugs him so tightly Maybe it’s because no one here has answered any of his questions properly Maybe because it feels like he hasn’t seen Seungcheol in so long But it feels good to have his friend here

Seungcheol pulls backs and cups Mingyu’s face, “I’m so glad you’re okay,” he sniffs. Mingyu swallows. Seungcheol’s hair is different. It’s blonde now. Wasn’t it black when he last saw him? How long has it been…. “Hyung…” Mingyu calls, tired, confused, relieved

Mingyu doesn’t know what to say to be honest He feels so disoriented He feels like a man out of time “What happened…” Mingyu utters, a tear rolling down his cheek. Seungcheol sighs and pulls him in for another hug. “You idiot…”

— Car accident Coma Amnesia That sums it all up, more or less. There’s nothing else to be said.

“Selective amnesia” the Doctor says, a senior compared to the one who attended Mingyu first, “loss of only only certain parts of the memory. Common elements that may be forgotten are relationships, where you live, and certain special abilities,” he explains

Mingyu swallows thickly Mingyu’s mother holds his hand tightly. His parents had arrived shortly after Seungcheol. “When will he regain his memory?” his Dad asks The doctor hums, “It’s hard to say. Maybe he will never recover his memory. Maybe he’ll recover some,”

The answer only worsens the mood The head nurse, Jeonghan, steps in, “What the Doctor means to say is,” he clears his throat, “recovery of memories can either be gradual, or be triggered by external or internal stimuli. Chances are you will regain your memories. +

+ But we can’t rule out permanent memory loss yet,” Mingyu’s Mom whimpers and hugs her son tightly, crying, “I’m just glad I got my baby back,” Mingyu smiles, leaning into his Mom’s warm embrace. 1.5 years 1.5 years, Mingyu was in a coma. 18 months…. It’s a long time

So much has happened in the 18 months that Mingyu was gone He’s missed 18 months of his life And apparently can’t remember the time before the accident either He’s lost a good chunk of his life… just like this..

But what Mingyu hates the most is that… though he’s lost so much time, though he’s been away from his friends and family, though he’s been hospitalised… though he can’t move his legs… all he can think about is the man who he saw sitting by his side

Who was he Why hasn’t he appeared Why hasn’t he come to see Mingyu Did he leave Is he ever coming back Mingyu feels like he knows that person… “I suggest Mingyu remain in the hospital and get physiotherapy,” the doctor says

Mingyu doesn’t even pay attention to the rest of the conversation, his mind occupied by other thoughts A nurse walks into the room with fresh towels and a tray of medication She’s the nurse who attended Mingyu when he woke up Mingyu swallows, “where’s that man?”

The nurse turns to Mingyu when she realises he’s talking to her. “Sorry?” Mingyu gulps, “that man, who was sitting here and reading a book. He was here when I woke up. Where is he?” Mingyu asks. The nurse seems fidgety and glances at Jeonghan.

Mingyu’s parents turn to Jeonghan with confused eyes, but it’s Seungcheol that steps up, “which man?” He asks firmly, addressing Jeonghan. Jeonghan purses his lips, avoiding Seungcheol’s gaze, “It must’ve been an attendant. Mingyu-ssi was very disoriented when he woke up,”

Mingyu frowns, “disoriented? No— there was a man. He had a brown trench coat, caramel hair… I saw him,” Seungcheol’s eyes widen and he turns to Jeonghan, “what?” Jeonghan doesn’t seem fazed by the curious eyes boring into him. He simply sighs

He turns to Mingyu’s parents, “that was our librarian. He likes to read to the patients every now and then,” he explains Huh… Mingyu’s parents exchange a nervous glance but seem to buy the story. Seungcheol on the other hand, doesn’t seem to trust Jeonghan’s words at all

— Mingyu looks outside the window as Jeonghan and Seungcheol argue on othe other side of the door Seungcheol had convinced Mingyu’s parents to leave for the day and had taken the opportunity to talk it out with the head nurse Mingyu knows it wasn’t the librarian

So who is he? And why are Jeonghan and Seungcheol fighting about it? Is he someone important? Someone involved with Mingyu’s past? The door opens and Seungcheol storms in, displeased with the conversation he had with Jeonghan, obviously

“Can I meet him?” Mingyu asks simply, and Seungcheol purses his lips. “No,” Seungcheol says, and Mingyu glances at Jeonghan, “what’s his name?” Jeonghan doesn’t answer “Mingyu-yah,” Seungcheol steps in between them, “that’s not important. You can’t meet him,” “Why not?”

“You just can’t!” Seungcheol snaps, and Mingyu flinches. Seungcheol takes a deep breath and licks his lips, “Focus on getting better, okay?” he says, and Mingyu sighs. He nods. “Okay,” Seungcheol exhales softly and hugs Mingyu, “I missed you,” Mingyu smiles, “me too”

Okay see you tmr at the same time! I’m a little busy so I’ll let you know! The updates will be regular next week onwards. The story will pick up pace soon! https://tellonym.me/minkyuwoo

Mingyu watches Jeonghan as he tinkers with medical equipment Mingyu makes sure Jeonghan /feels/ his gaze boring into him, like a child wishing he could shoot laser beams at his enemies Only, Jeonghan isn’t an enemy Mingyu needs information from him About a certain someone

“Looking at me won’t make me talk,” Jeonghan says suddenly and Mingyu flinches, spooked. Mingyu purses his lips, “The fact that you guys are keeping it a secret makes it all the more suspicious,” Jeonghan exhales “We’re not hiding him. He doesn’t want to visit you,”

What a rude thing to say to someone who has spent not just 18 months in the hospital, but has to spend another 6-8 months getting physical therapy “Maybe he’s afraid of you,” Mingyu says and Jeonghan rolls his eyes, “he’s my friend, he wouldn’t be —“ Mingyu smirks

Jeonghan stops himself midway but the damage has been done “So you do know him?” Mingyu chides and Jeonghan sighs “Yes,” he turns to Mingyu, “I do. But please, don’t pester me about meeting him. It’s for your own good,” Mingyu hums.

Mingyu heard Jeonghan and Seungcheol talking when he pretended to sleep That the doctor has advised against trying to make Mingyu remember his past Atleast not yet Judging by Jeonghan and Seungcheol’s behaviour, it’s safe to say that man is connected to his past

Mingyu turns to look outside his window When he puts aside the thoughts about that man, Mingyu’s left feeling despair He wonders what other things of his past he doesn’t remember What other things are being hidden from him so as to not trigger a traumatic episode

18 months 540 days 12960 hours Mingyu didn’t exist for 18 months in the outside world He just lay here, barely living as his friends and family visited Their government changed, Seungcheol’s hair isn’t black, Beyoncé had a tour— so much has happened!

Mingyu takes a deep breath “You know, it would ease my heart if I got to meet him,” Mingyu might not be able to bring back all the time he lost but he sure as hell could get his way this way Jeonghan exhales “Those words never worked on me and never will,”

Mingyu raises his brows, “I know you?” Another slip up from Jeonghan. Jeonghan slaps his cheek softly for having slipped up “Yes,” Jeonghan clears his throat, “we were friends,” Mingyu hums. “Did you date Seungcheol Hyung?” Jeonghan cocks a brow, “why do you ask?”

Mingyu shrugs, “I don’t know. Seungcheol Hyung was pretty mad that someone was here. He normally blows up on people but he held back with you so…” Jeonghan scoffs. He goes back to working. “Is it?” Mingyu nods, “I take it you guys dated and broke up,”

Jeonghan groans, “you know, for someone who’s been in a coma, you sure do know a lot about things that happened when you were gone,” Mingyu’s getting on Jeonghan’s nerves Good

“I’m just saying. There’s some chemistry between you two. If you tell me who that man was, I’ll help you get back with Seungcheol Hyung,” Jeonghan scoffs, “Ah so that was your plan. It won’t work, because I dumped him. I don’t wanna get back with him,”

Mingyu gasps Seungcheol got dumped?? Damn dude Since this has no effect on Jeonghan, Mingyu gives up. He simply turns to look out the window that oversees the park. There are a lot of patients and families walking around. An unfamiliar ache surges in his heart

A longing Like he’s missed someone important It’s like a nefarious itch in the back of his head Like that person is scratching his way out of Mingyu’s deep conscious, struggling to come to the surface Mingyu exhales “I thought it would be nice to have a friend..” he mutters

Although he mutters it to himself, Jeonghan seems to pick up on it “Fuck,” he groans and Mingyu turns to him with an apathetic face, “what?” Jeonghan stares at him, contemplating for a bit “Fuck,” he swears again, “listen, I’ll let you meet him, once,” Mingyu’s eyes light up

“Wait, really?” There’s newfound energy in Mingyu’s body Jeonghan sighs, “Yes. Don’t make me regret it. My job is on the line!” Mingyu chuckles enthusiastically, pleased by this odd development “When can I meet him?” he asks eagerly and Jeonghan exhales

“Look, he….” Jeonghan stops halfway “You can meet him, only if he agrees. And don’t expect him to visit you often. It all depends on him, okay?” Mingyu nods. Okay. That’s reasonable He ran away when Mingyu first saw him He must’ve had a reason That’s okay

“I’ll talk to him tonight and let’s see, okay?” Jeonghan says and Mingyu grins, “okay!” And now that the plan is in motion, Mingyu feels a little nervous as well. He’s going to be meeting a stranger. Or maybe someone he once knew and now doesn’t. How does he react?

How does one reintroduce themselves? It’s all so new for him Mingyu swallows, “can you tell me something about him?” He expects Jeonghan to decline but maybe it’s the earnesty in his voice that moves Jeonghan He turns to Mingyu “He read to you for 18 months”

—- A week passes and there’s no word from Jeonghan He does his usual check ups and never utters anything about the meet up Or if there even is one Mingyu fights back the urge to pester him about it Truth is, he’s nervous too

He’d just found out that someone had read to him for 18 months Every day for 18 months How does Mingyu even begin to process that? Who is this man? What does he mean to Mingyu? What does Mingyu mean to him?? Mingyu snaps out of his thoughts when the door opens

It’s Jeonghan, and Mingyu assumes he’s here for the routine check up. “There’s someone here to meet you,” Jeonghan says, and that can only meet one thing Mingyu doesn’t even have the chance to prepare himself as a man walks out from behind Jeonghan, revealing himself

Mingyu’s breath gets lodged in his throat as the man walks towards Mingyu A poised walk and graceful presence Mingyu wonders how he’d missed his handsome features the first time around But behind those striking eyes is a sense of sorrow that Mingyu can’t yet decipher

He can’t put a finger on it. But he pushes that thought to a corner of his mind when the man speaks up, “Hello,” His voice… it’s familiar … “Hello,” Mingyu bows, sitting on the bed. Mingyu hopes the man’s name will ring a bell. “I’m Jeon Wonwoo,” It doesn’t

For 10 long seconds, Mingyu only stares at Wonwoo He’d hoped that his name would ring a bell , because why would a stranger devote 18 months of his life to Mingyu But there’s not even spark It’s rather…. Disappointing Wonwoo purses his lips, “I’m sorry I disappointed you”

Mingyu gasps, embarrassed. Jeonghan smacks Mingyu’s arm, “your stupid habit of thinking out loud hasn’t changed after all!” Mingyu glares at him and turns to Wonwoo, licking his lips. “No I uh…” Mingyu tries to form his next sentence correctly “I just…”

Words refuse to come out of his mouth as Wonwoo watches him. That caramel hair really suits him His suit fits him perfectly as well He has good body proportions Mingyu shakes his head. Just what is he thinking. He clears his throat

“I didn’t mean that. I just… hoped for something else,” Mingyu says as Wonwoo takes a seat by his bed. “Someone else? Like a pretty girl?” Wonwoo jokes, and it takes Mingyu by surprise because Wonwoo’s body language screams that he’s out of his comfort zone

Wonwoo seems to be making an effort to talk to Mingyu His fidgety hands show how nervous he is Mingyu locks his gaze with Wonwoo’s, “no, it’s… not that. I…don’t know what I expected,” Mingyu scoffs, “sorry, my thoughts have been a mess,” Wonwoo nods, eyes sympathetic

Wonwoo hums, long and deep “I should take my leave then,” he says and stands up, making Jeonghan gasp. “Wonwoo-yah,” he’s about to stop him but Mingyu beats him to it, having grabbed Wonwoo’s arm Wonwoo turns around, looking up at Mingyu, who utters - “Don’t leave”

Wonwoo hesitates But ultimately, he sits back down and sighs. “Okay…” It’s only then that Mingyu let’s go of his arm, softly To be honest, Mingyu’s actions had surprised him Why did he stop Wonwoo? It’s as if there’s something his body remembers but his brain doesn’t

While Mingyu contemplates his actions, Wonwoo speaks up, “why did you want to meet me?” Mingyu turns to him, snapping out of his trance, “to ask you some questions,” Wonwoo’s expression shifts. “What do you want to ask me?” he puts on a brave face nonetheless

Mingyu sighs “What did you read to me?” It seems like Wonwoo hadn’t expected that question. He takes a second to process it. “Just…poems,” he answers simply Poems, huh “Are they any good?” Wonwoo nods, “they’re meaningful,”

Mingyu exhales “I can’t walk,” Mingyu says, “and I haven’t regained complete strength in my arms either,” Wonwoo purses his lips, unsure of what to say “They’re going to keep me at the hospital for a few more months. Physiotherapy,” Mingyu adds

“I see,” Wonwoo replies dryly and Mingyu exhales frustratedly “Wonwoo-ssi, will you read to me till I get better?” The proposal takes both Wonwoo and Jeonghan aback “Yah! I can’t allow that!” Jeonghan interjects but Mingyu’s eyes are trained on Wonwoo, “Wonwoo-ssi,”

Wonwoo’s stunned by the offer No, the demand “I…” Wonwoo’s gaze wavers, “I…I don’t…” “Wonwoo-ssi,” Mingyu interrupts, “you must be wondering why I haven’t asked more questions, right? Who are you, why did you read to me, have we met?” Wonwoo swallows nervously

Mingyu continues, “I can sense that those questions might make you a little uncomfortable. So I’m not going to ask you anything until you come forth yourself. However, in exchange of my silence, I want you to read poems to me every day until I get better,”

“Mingyu-yah—“ Jeonghan intercepts but Mingyu clicks his tongue, “if it’s about your job, I’ll take the blame, okay?” And then he turns to Wonwoo, who seems to be contemplating “Will you come? Every day like you did the last 18 months?” Mingyu asks, firm. Wonwoo swallows

The door opens and the lady who had been introduced to Mingyu as his therapist walks in She smiles, “you ready?” Mingyu sighs She wheels over a wheelchair towards Mingyu as a nurse rushes to his side. She carries his strength on her small frame, helping his legs off the bed

The angle is all wrong and Mingyu tries to balance himself on his legs but he falls forward. He never hits the ground though, thanks to Wonwoo holding him upright. Their eyes lock as Wonwoo slowly lowers Mingyu onto the wheelchair. Wonwoo steps away after tucking Mingyu in

Wonwoo stands there awkwardly as Mingyu settles in the wheelchair Silence befalls them It was awkward when they met, it’s awkward now Mingyu’s hoping it won’t be awkward in the future If there is one

No words are exchanged as Mingyu is wheeled away for his first session He feels unfulfilled as he leaves He wishes there was some other way to make Wonwoo stay And the worst part is — he doesn’t even know why he wants Wonwoo to stay He doesn’t even…know him

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” Wonwoo speaks up, and Mingyu turns his head around, “what?” Wonwoo gulps, “I’ll see you tomorrow, Mingyu-ssi,” Mingyu’s eyes widen, and he has nothing to say.

He lets his wide grin do all the talking. “I look forward to it!” Mingyu says as he’s wheeled out, and his heart fills with warmth when he sees… Wonwoo’s smile “Me too,” Wonwoo waves, smiling for the first time since they’ve met Mingyu can’t wait for tomorrow!

— Jeonghan exhales frustratedly as Mingyu glances at the door continuously “He’ll be here. Can you chill?” he grunts and Mingyu shakes his head, “I’m just nervous!” Jeonghan rolls his eyes, “if you’re so nervous, why do you want to meet him?!” Mingyu glares at Jeonghan

“Were you like this even before my accident?” Mingyu asks, and Jeonghan scoffs, “well, yes because you’ve always been a complicated brat!” Mingyu scoffs. Ah this Hyung is unbelievable Mingyu pushes aside Wonwoo’s arrival for a moment. “What was it like?”

“What was what like?” Jeonghan asks, sitting by the bed to put some socks on Mingyu’s feet. Mingyu can barely feel them “Us, me, my life…before the accident,” Mingyu asks hesitantly Mingyu knows they’ve been instructed to keep Mingyu in the dark till he remembers on his own

But he’d like to know a little Jeonghan pauses and glances at Mingyu, and then focuses on rolling the socks up Mingyu’s feet. “We were happy,” Jeonghan says, “you had a good job, good friends….Seungcheol and I were together…” Mingyu swallows. “Why did you break up?”

Jeonghan shrugs, “things got tense after your accident. He…wasn’t the same after what happened to you and..” Jeonghan sighs, “we broke up,” Mingyu gulps Seungcheol must’ve been worried. Mingyu’s worried so many people by… He lowers his gaze and watches his fingers figdet

“Anyway,” Jeonghan speaks up, “that’s why I’m not very keen on Wonwoo visiting you every day. What if Seungcheol finds out? He specifically warned us against it,” Mingyu understands Jeonghan’s dilemma. But he doesn’t want to act on it. He..wants to keep seeing Wonwoo.

And as if on cue, the door opens and in walks Wonwoo, dressed in casuals this time. It makes him look a lot younger than how he looks in suits. Wonwoo sees Mingyu and purses his lips a small smile, “Good morning,” “Good morning!” Mingyu barks, nervousness forgotten

Wonwoo glances at Jeonghan, who just facepalms disappointedly If Mingyu had a tail, it would be wagging right about now Jeonghan doesn’t understand why Mingyu’s so eager to meet Wonwoo But he can’t bring himself to question it when Wonwoo’s presence makes Mingyu happy

Wonwoo licks his lips, taking a step forward, “I uh, I got the poems,” he says, patting the book in his hands. Mingyu smiles, “thank you for coming,” he says, unconsciously adjusting his clothes and setting his hair Wonwoo smiles, “so uh, what now?” he asks, taking a seat

Mingyu shrugs. He knows he sorts blackmailed slash convinced Wonwoo into visiting him but he doesn’t know what’s next either But before he can say something, the door opens yet again and the nurse walks in, “It’s time for your therapy, Mingyu-ssi,” Oh, right.

“Right uh…” Mingyu stares at Wonwoo who watches him with a quizzical gaze Damn it! “Would you like to accompany me to therapy?” Mingyu asks. He hates that he called Wonwoo all the way here only for him to leave for therapy. “Sure,” Wonwoo says, much to his surprise

Mingyu’s face lights up at that and he gestures at the nurse to help him onto the wheelchair, “great!” he beams as the nurse struggles, once again, in supporting Mingyu Thankfully, Wonwoo intervenes, “I’ll do it,” he says, taking over and shuffling under Mingyu’s arm to hold him

Thanks to Wonwoo’s strength, Mingyu easily slides into the wheelchair without looking like an awkward mess “Wow you seem experienced at this,” Mingyu jokes, but only receives a lukewarm smile from Wonwoo. Wonwoo leans over and adjusts Mingyu’s clothes, “all good,”

As Wonwoo pulls away, Mingyu gets a whiff of his scent. He smells like…fruit… But what fruit? “I need to grab my earphone from my car. I’ll be right back,” Wonwoo says and exits the room, leaving Mingyu to contemplate

“I have a question,” Mingyu turns to Jeonghan, “what is it?” “Do I like men?” Mingyu asks, and Jeonghan bursts into a bout of laughter “That’s for you to find out!”

— Mingyu should really be paying attention to what his therapist is doing with his legs, but he keeps glancing at Wonwoo, who’s silently reading the book he brought How can someone look so picturesque while reading a book? “What do you do, Wonwoo-ssi?” Mingyu blurts

If he’s been visiting for the last 18 months, and if he plans on coming for the next few months — either he’s the boss of where he’s working or he has a more flexible job “I’m a writer,” Wonwoo says. Bingo! “A writer? That’s amazing! Anything I might have read?”

Wonwoo cocks a brow, “do you read?” Mingyu’s enthusiasm fades He might’ve lost his memory but he can’t forget the fact that he lost certainly did not read! “Well, no,” he mutters and Wonwoo giggles

Wonwoo closes his book, “either way, I don’t think there’s anything that I’m known for anyway,” Mingyu hums. “Does it pay well?” Mingyu asks and Wonwoo chuckles, “pretty well,” he says, and Mingyu pouts, nodding slowly, impressed “Damn. I wish I knew what I did previously,”

“You don’t know?” Wonwoo asks, and Mingyu shrugs, “do you?” “Oh..n-no, sorry,” he says and Mingyu scoffs. “Ah, I wish I could watch a recap of my life. It’s so annoying to know nothing about yourself on top of being denied information,” Mingyu says.

“Sorry,” Wonwoo says, pursing his lips, “that must be really frustrating,” Mingyu clicks his tongue, “I’m trying not to think about it as much,” he says, “it’s driving me crazy and Jeonghan Hyung might shift me to the psych ward,” Wonwoo laughs at that “Knowing him, he would”

Though it’s mostly awkward between them, there are moments like this where the two seem most genuine in each other’s presence He hopes things only get better from now on “So uh, what are you reading ?” Mingyu asks, and Wonwoo smiles, “should I read it out?” “Yes please”

Wonwoo reads it out, and oddly enough it puts Mingyu at ease He wishes to be at ease more these days

— “Uncle, how long have you been here?” Mingyu asks a fellow patient seated beside him on the park bench He’s made it a habit to take a stroll in the park. He’s sick of sitting in the room all by himself Since his hands are relatively strong, he’s allowed to wheel himself out

Mingyu thinks it’s about time he makes friends The old man turns to him, disoriented. “I came here yesterday,” he replies Mingyu nods, “I see. Why are you here?” The old man shrugs, staring in the distance, “they said I fell down the stairs,”

Mingyu gasps, “fell down the stairs? Are you okay?” Mingyu looks him up and down He doesn’t seem hurt or anything The old man clicks his tongue, “I am fine. There is a big conspiracy going on though. I am fine but they won’t let me leave the place!” He bellows, startling Mingyu

A woman rushes over with a wheelchair, “Harabeoji, don’t yell!” she pleads and the old man grumbles, getting onto the wheelchair Mingyu watches the peculiar scene in silence and shock “Sorry for the inconvenience,” the caretaker bows to Mingyu, “he has dementia,” she whispers

Yikes Mingyu smiles when the old man turns his head to look at Mingyu. The caretaker bows once again and wheels the old man away, leaving Mingyu alone. Mingyu sighs. That old man has dementia. Mingyu wonders just how long he’s been here.

Thinking about it sends chills down Mingyu’s spine He doesn’t want to be trapped in a hospital like this He doesn’t want to depend on caretakers like this But he’s helpless…. He hates that he’s helpless.. If it weren’t for that accident then… Then what?

Mingyu doesn’t know what he used to do He doesn’t know how he’d be if it weren’t for the accident No one’s going to tell him about his life Until he remembers, his life starts at the accident It’s just so fucking frustrating

Mingyu stares at the Uncle being wheeled away by his caretaker But from the distance emerges another person, tall and broad Mingyu squints his eyes and recognises it to be Wonwoo He greets the uncle like he knows him What’s surprising is that the uncle greets him back

Well, it shouldn’t be surprising Wonwoo’s been here… Mingyu doesn’t know how long Wonwoo did read to him Maybe in that time period, he made friends Mingyu exhales He knows nothing about Wonwoo, he knows nothing about himself, nothing about the past…

Wonwoo walks over to Mingyu, smiling under the blinding sunlight His skin glows Mingyu’s anger subsides “I heard you came out for a walk,” Wonwoo says, approaching him Mingyu scoffs, “yeah. Walk,” he airquotes the last word. Wonwoo bites his lips, “sorry,”

Mingyu exhales “Don’t be,” Mingyu says, “let’s go inside, it’s hot out here,” he says and attempts to wheel himself back in But Wonwoo intervenes and decides to take control of Mingyu’s wheelchair, “let me,” he says softly, and Mingyu decides against resisting

“Thanks,” he mumbles as he relaxes He has far too much pride to depend on others But with Wonwoo he feels a little…comfortable “You’re dressed up. Where did you go?” Mingyu asks. Wonwoo hums, “a small gathering with my publishing company and editors,”

Mingyu nods, “oh, that’s great,” Editors and publishing company huh Curiosity got the better of him and Mingyu searched up Wonwoo’s name But it was a futile effort Wonwoo’s name didn’t show up anywhere It’s like he doesn’t exist There’s no social media accounts either

Mingyu’s guessing Wonwoo writes under a different name And that he’s made an effort to lay low So why would a mysterious person like Wonwoo go through all the trouble in the world to visit Mingyu everyday for 18 months ?? Mingyu looks up at Wonwoo Jeon Wonwoo makes no sense

Mingyu wants to know more about Wonwoo but there’s only so much he can hope to know without scaring Wonwoo away “Do you have a lover, Wonwoo?” Mingyu asks, and Wonwoo halts. He looks down at Mingyu with a confused gaze “Ah,” Mingyu clears his throat, “I’m not asking you out,”

Wonwoo cocks a brow and exhales, “no, I don’t have a lover,” Ah. Of course. “Good. Otherwise your lover would’ve cussed me out for taking up so much of your time,” Mingyu jokes Wonwoo huffs, “is that how it is?”

Mingyu clicks his tongue, “it is! When you’re dating someone, you have to devote a significant amount of your time to them. Else relationships fail!” Wonwoo giggles, “are you speaking from experience, Mingyu-ssi?”

Mingyu snorts, “yes! I dated this girl in college. She dumped me because I prioritised my—“ He stops midway “Prioritised your?” Wonwoo chimes Mingyu swallows, trying to recollect, “prioritised my…” His what? Studies? His hobby? His interest?? What??

Mingyu can’t remember He can’t remember a single thing “Prioritised my…” he mumbles, heart racing. He can’t breathe. He can’t think. He can’t remember… The answer is on the tip of his tongue and yet… he’s so helplessly speechless “I…”

Suddenly, Mingyu’s handed a handkerchief. He cranes twists his neck to look at z Wonwoo, who’s staring in the distance as if deliberately avoiding eye contact Mingyu’s about to wonder why when he realises a warm wetness in his face, down his cheeks He’s crying

Mingyu’s crying With shaky hands, he takes the handkerchief and wipes his face, but to no avail because the tears continue relentlessly , frustratingly

And soon, Mingyu’s crying from sheer rage and annoyance Why won’t he stop crying?! The tears don’t stop for a long time Mingyu continues to wipe them in silence, for a long time Wonwoo never looks

— “You know, we’ve been meeting up for a month now but I know nothing about you,” Mingyu says, prompting Wonwoo to look up from his book When their gazes lock, Wonwoo ponders, “to be honest, you don’t know anything about yourself either,” Mingyu’s jaw drops “Ouch?”

Wonwoo smiles mischievously, and Mingyu’s glad he isn’t really offended by those words He guesses it’s a sign of how close they’ve gotten. Despite knowing nothing about each other. It’s good that things aren’t awkward between them

It’s true that Mingyu was a little hung up on being left in the dark about his own life. He couldn’t even remember what he did before the accident. What was his job? Where did he work? It hurt so bad that Mingyu didn’t even realise he’d begun crying

But Wonwoo pointed out that Mingyu had probably followed his passion and turned it into a career, as was evident from Mingyu not being able to remember what it was that he prioritised in college It did make Mingyu feel better. And he knows he’ll recover soon and remember

“Sorry,” Wonwoo mutters, closing his book It’s fascinating how a smile from a stranger can be so comforting Mingyu exhales “I want to know more about you, Wonwoo,” Mingyu says, voice devoid of any element of joke Wonwoo blinks at Mingyu, and sighs “What do you wanna know?”

Mingyu purses his lips Ok, how can he ask this without being nosy, creepy and insensitive? But perhaps Wonwoo’s able to guess it from Mingyu’s face He sighs, “Yes, I’m gay,” Mingyu groans, “oh thank god you picked up on that, I didn’t know how to ask you,”

Wonwoo rolls his eyes but breaks into a silly smile anyway “What about you?” Wonwoo asks, I’m sure your sexual preferences aren’t affected by the memory loss Mingyu scoffs. He shrugs. “I think girls are pretty. I think guys are too. Does that answer your question?”

Wonwoo blinks. “Yeah, sorta,”Wonwoo chuckles, “look at us asking each other invasive questions like a bunch of teenagers,” Mingyu smirks. “It’s in case I see a hot guy somewhere and say ‘hey, Won, you think you’d be into him?’ Like a pair of good bros,”

Wonwoo purses his lips in a thin smile and the lack of response prompts Mingyu to drop the subject “Uh, anyway, tell me about your family,” Mingyu says, and Wonwoo shrugs, “haven’t spoken to them in years,” Mingyu frowns, “why not?” Wonwoo exhales, “take a guess, Mingyu,”

Mingyu bites his lip, “Yikes. Every topic I touch turns out to be a sensitive one. It’s like I’m Midas but without the gold” Wonwoo swallows, and shakes his head, “Midas, huh? What would you even call a Midas who turns everything he touches into shit,” Mingyu hums

“Do you mean actual shit? Like poop?” Wonwoo snorts, “no. Metaphorically,” Mingyu hums, pondering. What is the opposite of Midas? “Anti-Midas?” he asks and Wonwoo giggles, “good enough,” Mingyu smiles at him Wonwoo’s managed to divert the topic yet again Sigh

“What about your friends?” Wonwoo’s eyes widen, but he lowers his gaze It looks like that’s another topic Wonwoo doesn’t want to talk about God, this is so frustrating Mingyu exhales, “this was a bad idea,” he says, and Wonwoo purses his lips. “Let’s j-“ “I have a cat,”

Oh? OH! Progress! “What kind?!” Mingyu asks excitedly and Wonwoo’s eyes light up “Black Cat. His name is Nero. Would you like to see?” Wonwoo blabbers, already whipping out his phone Mingyu giggles at his enthusiasm as Wonwoo shows him a picture

And as Wonwoo continues to blabber about Nero and how adorable he is, Mingyu just watches with a quiet smile on his face, glad that he was able to learn something new about this mysterious man today He hopes for more such days to come

— Mingyu’s never been more at peace before He feels so warm, he feels so light, like he’s floating in the clouds What time is it? He feels a gentle caress on his cheek, prompting him to open his eyes to look at the owner of the kind hand Who is touching him so lovingly ?

When he opens his eyes however, he’s blinded by a light He can feel someone’s palm on his cheek, their fingers setting his hair, thumb sliding against his lips “Won..” Mingyu calls out but he can’t feel his lips moving He can’t open his eyes fully He can’t see

The person touching him speaks up, but Mingyu can’t quite register that voice All he knows is that it’s gentle and loving Something Mingyu craves so desperately The loss of warmth on his cheek alarms him, and he feels that hand retreating His heart rate spikes and he jerks

He needs to chase that hand He needs that person No Don’t leave Please don’t leave / I don’t wanna be alone / Mingyu springs to his feet and chases the disappearing silhouette But his hopes come crashing down when he opens his eyes to find himself falling off the bed

Immense pain shoots through his face as he falls face first on the floor, gravity pulling his body down and completely off the bed Mingyu groans lowly, unable to push himself off the floor. He feels a small puddle of blood form around his face The blood is warm… so warm..

He can’t feel his legs He has no strength in his arms His body feels like lead But he feels content All thanks to the warmth his blood provides him He could stay like this forever But the universe never seems to listen to him because he feels himself being lifted

“Mingyu!” he hears a concern filled voice, sturdy arms turning him over and patting his cheeks gently It makes Mingyu open his eyes, and he comes face to face with Seungcheol, who’s watching Mingyu with a worrisome gaze

Seungcheol’s mind is spinning He’s kneeling in the floor, with Mingyu’s face on his lap, a face stained with blood and coated in tears It brings tears to Seungcheol’s eyes He glances at Mingyu’s legs, motionless “It’s warm..” Mingyu mutters as Seungcheol wipes the blood

Is Mingyu’s nose broken? “Jeonghan!” Seungcheol yells, “Nurse!” he calls out frantically as tears continue to stream down both his and Mingyu’s face “Mingyu-yah,” Seungcheol calls, trying to keep him conscious, “hey, you’re okay, it’s a little nosebleed,” But his voice tremors

Seungcheol decides agaisnt being weak and hoists Mingyu up, placing him back on his bed As he lays Mingyu down, the door opens and the nurse rushes in, followed by Jeonghan “What happened?!” Jeonghan asks, diving into action by grabbing some cotton and dabbing the blood away

Seungcheol doesn’t respond, watching the sorry state Mingyu’s in. He’s catatonic His feet won’t move He only watches as the nurse takes over from Jeonghan in cleaning Mingyu’s face Seungcheol feels himself being pulled away from Mingyu and into the corridor

“Seungcheol!” Jeonghan’s voice tears through the numbing silence and Seungcheol looks up at his worried face Seungcheol takes deep breaths and turns to look at the nurse cleaning Mingyu’s face whilst Mingyu peacefully sleeps “What…what happened…” Seungcheol breathes

Jeonghan swallows. “Mingyu’s been having hallucinations lately. Or nightmares. He’s been moving a lot. We restrain him in the nights so he doesn’t hurt himself but I didn’t expect him to fall asleep now..” Seungcheol gulps. He clenches his fists and nods “His nose is broken”

Jeonghan licks his lips, “I don’t think so. He’ll be fine,” he says, his hand itching to take Seungcheol’s, to comfort him But they’re not like that anymore Seungcheol nods, disoriented still Jeonghan can tell Seungcheol’s overthinking “Hey,” he calls, “he’ll be fine”

Seungcheol licks his lips “I just…” he glances at Mingyu, “I wish I could take away all his troubles,”’ Jeonghan swallows How does he tells Seungcheol he wishes to do the same for him He hates seeing Seungcheol like this “I wish I could tell him everything,” Jeonghan gasps

“Yah, you know you-“ “I can’t. I know,” Seungcheol sighs, running his hand through his hair. Jeonghan gulps, “the doctor said that if he doesn’t recollect everything on his own, if it’s not organic, it can cause him a lot of stress and trauma,” Seungcheol nods, “I know!”

Jeonghan sighs. “You know how he was before,” Seungcheol says, “look at him now. He must feel so…helpless and aimless,” Jeonghan nods, “I know. But we know it’s temporary. He will remember soon, and one by one, okay?” he takes Seungcheol’s hand.

Seungcheol’s jumps slightly, watching how Jeonghan’s fingers hesitantly lace with his Seungcheol glances at Jeonghan, who keeps his gaze lowered.

Seungcheol exhales and yanks Jeonghan into his embrace, “I’m glad you’re here for Mingyu. It puts me at ease that there’s someone here I can trust,” He tightens his hold on Jeonghan’s body as the latter remains silent Trust, huh Jeonghan swallows nervously Some trust…

Jeonghan breaks the hug and avoids looking directly at Seungcheol’s eyes “I’ll go check on Mingyu,” Jeonghan says, “you should go home and rest,” Seungcheol nods as Jeonghan leaves, his hand slipping out of his

Seungcheol watches as Jeonghan walks over to Mingyu. He exhales frustratedly and walks a few steps, only to halt and turn around There’s no one behind him, or in the corridor So why did it feel like he was being watched? Seungcheol dismisses the thought and heads home

—- As footsteps retreat down the hallway, Wonwoo finally releases the breath he’d been holding and peeps out from the corner to confirm Seungcheol’s departure He emerges from behind the corner and steps out into the hallway, thinking

Wonwoo stands there frozen for a few good moments before taking a deep breath and going into Mingyu’s room Slowly, he walks towards Jeonghan and the Nurse…and an unconscious Mingyu’s His heart beats loudly in his chest “Hyung,” he calls, “what happened?”

Jeonghan doesn’t look up from Mingyu, sighing, “he’s having hallucinations. It’s common with people who were once in a coma,” Wonwoo swallows, overwhelmed. “Will he be fine—“ “I don’t think you should come here anymore, Wonwoo,” Jeonghan interrupts

Wonwoo’s heart comes to a halt But he doesn’t feel like questioning that suggestion. He just gulps nervously and lowers his gaze, “You’re right,” he admits, disappointed. He glances at Mingyu with worrisome eyes. “Coming here was a mistake in the first place,” Wonwoo whispers

Jeonghan licks his lips, “I hate betraying Seungcheol’s trust like this. If he knew I’d allowed you to visit Mingyu, he would never trust me again,” Wonwoo swallows. Wonwoo’s….always been a bad luck charm for everyone he’s met. He just causes problems everywhere he goes

Wonwoo clears his throat, seeing no point in even arguing “Then, I-I’ll take my leave,” Wonwoo bows to Jeonghan.He understands that Jeonghan’s hands are tied He doesn’t want to cause any more inconvenience to anyone As Wonwoo turns around to leave, he feels a tug on his wrist

Wonwoo turns around to see the owner of the hand that’s holding onto his wrist so tightly Wonwoo’s eyes widen when they realise it’s Mingyu holding him back, his eyes now open, though, emotionless “Who said you could leave?” Mingyu asks in a monotonous tone

Jeonghan gasps, “yah, when did you wake up?” Mingyu shifts his gaze onto Jeonghan, “when I heard Wonwoo’s voice,” Wonwoo and Jeonghan exchange a glance and Jeonghan sighs Wonwoo softly frees himself from Mingyu’s grip, “Ming—“ “You can tell Seungcheol Hyung,” Mingyu begins

“You can clear your conscience. But I’ll take it up with him regardless. I want Wonwoo here and that’s that,” Mingyu says firmly. Wonwoo just blinks at him, so many questions in his mind “Mingyu-yah, just… why?” Jeonghan exhales Mingyu glances at Wonwoo “I like his poems,”

— Wonwoo taps his foot anxiously “I told you, you have nothing to worry about,” Mingyu says, and Wonwoo sighs “I don’t want you to fight with your friend for me—“ “It’s for me,” Mingyu corrects, “I like your presence here. They say good company fastens the healing process,”

Wonwoo seals his lips He doesn’t want to argue anymore Awkward silence befalls and Wonwoo finally looks up at Mingyu, “how long have you been having these hallucinations?” Mingyu shrugs, “since I woke up,” Wonwoo nods. His fingers fidget “Can I ask you something?” he asks

Mingyu nods, “go ahead,” Wonwoo purses his lips, “what was it like? Coma…” Mingyu’s face shows no visible change in expression He cocks his brows and exhales. “Like I passed out for an afternoon nap,”

Wonwoo gulps. “Do you remember anything from it?” he asks Mingyu, and the latter takes a deep breath. “Not at first. But then I would recollect memories of someone talking to me. Reading to me,” Mingyu eyes Wonwoo, who recoils in his seat, “and how it was comforting,”

Wonwoo lowers his gaze. “Do you get it now? Why I want you to stay?” Mingyu asks, and though it makes no sense to Wonwoo, he nods. Mingyu takes a deep breath and Wonwoo takes a peep at his face. As Mingyu turns to look out the window, Wonwoo notices blood on Mingyu’s ear

Instinctively, he reaches his hand to wipe the blood off his ear. The gesture makes Mingyu turn to him, and when their eyes lock, Wonwoo pulls his hand back, lowering his gaze, “there was…blood,” he murmurs, uneasy. Mingyu stares at him blankly, and then sighs.

“Do you think it’s cheating if I put myself in situations that would help me remember my past?” Mingyu asks Wonwoo blinks “It’s more dangerous than cheating,” Wonwoo replies, “you shouldn’t force your memories back. It could cause trauma,” Wonwoo says softly

Mingyu clicks his tongue, “I hate being left in the dark like this,” he says, “is it criminal to want to know just a little?” Wonwoo purses his lips He can’t even begin to imagine what it must feel like To not have a past To be trapped in a hospital To be alone …

To be alone…. Wonwoo knows that all too well “How about you go one step at a time? Start with trying to recollect what your profession was before the accident?” Mingyu smirks derisively, “I wish. But I don’t remember anything,”

Wonwoo shakes his head, “you won’t remember it just like that, Mingyu-yah. You need to look through some prospects and count on the feeling of déjà vu or even nostalgia,” Mingyu frowns. Wonwoo does have a point

“That doesn’t sound like a bad idea,” Mingyu utters, and Wonwoo smiles “But,” Mingyu sighs, “what if I never remember?” Wonwoo’s expression shifts But he forces a smile on his face, “you will, Mingyu-yah,” And as comforting as that sounds, it also feels a little ominous

— “Do you think I was an employee?” Mingyu asks as the two stroll through the park Wonwoo hums, “no clue,” Mingyu clicks his tongue. “Or was I an employer??” “Don’t know,” Wonwoo says God damnit! It’s more frustrating that Mingyu can’t tell if Wonwoo knows or not

Mingyu’s completely in the dark Even about whether people know the information or not “Did you always want to be a writer?” Mingyu diverts the question Wonwooo halts momentarily but they’re moving again in no time “No,” “What changed?” Mingyu asks

“Someone told me my writing gave them peace,” Wonwoo says, voice barely a whisper Mingyu inhales deeply “That’s a sweet thing to say,” Mingyu replies, “you must care about them a lot to take up writing as a profession then,”’ Wonwoo just hums, zoning out

Mingyu exhales Another dead end He falls silent as Wonwoo wheels him around the park Two months and he knows nothing about this man Or himself “How’s Nero?” Mingyu asks and there’s a shift in the atmosphere “I woke up to Nero sleeping on my chest! I took so many pics!”

Mingyu holds back a smirk. Wonwoo’s so cute when he talks about Nero He just goes on and on “You’re very chatty when it’s about Nero, Won,” Mingyu says. Wonwoo stops blabbering and clears his throat, “I’ve been told I get chatty when I’m talking about something I like,”

“Is that so?” Mingyu giggles. The atmosphere is light again, “what if you’re talking to someone you like?” Wonwoo blushes. “Same answer,” he mutters under his breath and Mingyu laughs. Ah Wonwoo’s so damn cute.

“Wonwoo, did we know each other in the past?” Mingyu decides to take Wonwoo by surprise “No,” Wonwoo replies instantly, almost defensively. Mingyu swallows Now what does Mingyu make of that ?? “You can tell me that much,” Mingyu argues “I-I didn’t know you, Mingyu-yah,”

Mingyu doesn’t take Wonwoo’s words seriously If there was no connection, why was Wonwoo here? Plus, he’s Jeonghan’s friend There ought to be a connection between them. Wonwoo’s no stranger to Mingyu’s life Mingyu can feel that He…he’s someone…important that he’s forgotten

Mingyu’s gonna get to the bottom of it sooner or later But right now he needs to work on jogging his memory “Do you know why Jeonghan and Seungcheol Hyung broke up?” Mingyu asks, a harmless question “No I don’t,” Wonwoo replies and Mingyu’s had it.

“I think you should leave for the day, Wonwoo,” Mingyu says, trying to contain his anger No No No It’s always “No” No one ever tells him anything The doctors say no Jeonghan says no His parents say no Seungcheol says no

Wonwoo too, which is a lot worse because he doesn’t even know who the fuck Wonwoo is! “Mingyu,” Wonwoo walks over to his front and kneels, “I’m sorry I—“ “You’re not sorry,” Mingyu begins, “you don’t even know what it feels like. To hallucinate about what once was, to cry..”

Wonwoo’s expression shifts, “Mingyu—“ he reaches out to touch Mingyu’s face, his fingers caressing Mingyu’s cheeks Mingyu swallows thickly. Why does Wonwoo’s touch feel so familiar?So nostalgic? He wishes Wonwoo would be honest with him “I thought you were on my side,” Mg says

Wonwoo swallows “We are on your side—“ “Stop with this diplomatic nonsense!” Mingyu raises his voice, “stop speaking on their behalf! Tell me how YOU feel! And if YOU are on my side! Because it doesn’t feel like it! I thought we were..we were..”

We were what? Friends? Are they friends? Sort of? Mingyu doesn’t even know anymore He doesn’t know why he so badly wants Wonwoo to stay by his side Why he can’t just let Wonwoo go It’s so fucking confusing and painful because Wonwoo never says anything!

Mingyu looks up at Wonwoo with moist eyes, “what are we, Wonwoo?” Wonwoo gasps. He takes a moment too long to answer that question “We’re friends,” Wonwoo says, unsure of his own words Mingyu swallows, lowering his gaze, “I don’t think we ever were,”

Wonwoo fails to defend his stance. “Are you angry with me?” Wonwoo asks, and Mingyu gulps “I don’t want to talk to you right now,” Mingyu says, “it’s difficult to even look at you,” and Wonwoo gasps. Mingyu looks up and catches a glimpse of the hurt on Wonwoo’s face

In that moment, Mingyu realises his words might’ve been too harsh In that moment, he regrets saying it out loud And in that moment, a sense of guilt and nostalgia washes over him He wonders how many people he has hurt in the past How many times he’s hurt Wonwoo, even

Wonwoo is quick to evade and forces a smile, but his eyes remain sorrowful, “here,” he fishes out a piece of paper and hands it to Mingyu, “today’s poem,” Mingyu swallows, taking it. Wonwoo steps away from him, and Mingyu can’t discern the expression on his face

And before he has the chance to apologise, Wonwoo bows and walks away, leaving Mingyu to think maybe those words meant something else to Wonwoo than just words spoken out of anger Mingyu swallows and opens the small piece of paper

— “You’re really good. Maybe you should do this for a living!” “You think so? I don’t think anyone will take me, haha,” “They will. And if they don’t, you can always go solo! I’ll stand by you,” “You will, huh?” “I will,” Mingyu’s eyes snap open.

His chest is heaving and his brow is sweating but it’s nothing like last time where he almost broke his nose trying to chase the silhouette of his dreams He’s calmer now Or rather, he’s gotten used to these haphazard recollections of memories

When he wakes up, he doesn’t look around or sit up He just stares out the window at the people in the park His body feels heavy. And so does his mind. He wishes peace would come soon

— “Mingyu-yah,” Jeonghan calls, prompting the younger to turn to him Jeonghan hands him his tablets, and Mingyu silently downs them with a glass of water He goes back to looking outside Jeonghan sighs “Still no Wonwoo, huh?” Mingyu gulps.

“Maybe it’s for the best, Mingyu-yah,” Jeonghan says, and Mingyu turns to him with a sharp gaze, “is it? Why?” he questions, knowing damn well Jeonghan cannot answer the question without revealing “sensitive information “ Jeonghan deals his lips and lowers his gaze Thought so

Mingyu turns to look outside again The park seems lively today If Wonwoo were here, he would comment on the weather using ridiculously bookish words But Wonwoo’s not here Hasn’t been here for 2 days now Mingyu wonders if what he said was even that hurtful

So hurtful that Wonwoo’s stopped coming Mingyu exhales “4th October,” Mingyu says, and Jeonghan’s ears perk “What?” “That’s your birthday, right?” Mingyu turns to Jeonghan who seems taken aback “How did you know?” “8th august,” Mingyu says Jeonghan gulps, “Cheollie,”

Mingyu clenches his jaw, “July….” He utters, trying to recollect the number that’s floating around in his brain. But it fails to resurface and Mingyu sighs. “You remember?” Jeonghan asks, voice cautious. Mingyu scoffs, “not everything, don’t worry. Your secrets are intact,”

Jeonghan clicks his tongue, “we told you it’s not like that,” Mingyu only hums in response, zoning out. “Wonwoo said some things are such that I can’t forget. I just need to pull them up to the surface, like birthdays of my loved ones,” Mingyu explains

“What else do you remember?” Jeonghan asks. Mingyu simply takes the pen from Jeonghan’s pocket and scribbles on his arm Mingyu’s signature Jeonghan smiles. “Of course. I don’t think you ever forgot this in the first place, to be honest. It’s an involuntary action,”

Mingyu hums. Maybe it’s not much progress in that end then. Mingyu exhales. He should ask Wonwoo his birthday next time he sees him. That is, if he ever comes back.

— “Kid, how long have you been here?” an old man asks, eyeing Mingyu’s wheelchair “Year and a half,” Mingyu replies, “but I was asleep for most of that,” he jokes. But the old man doesn’t break an expression Has Mingyu’s jokes always been bad? Wonwoo always laughed!

“You were in a coma?” another voice chimes, this time from behind Mingyu. Mingyu turns around in his wheelchair and finds a man staring at him. No, a boy A man, a boy? Mingyu can’t quite discern his age “Yeah,” he says, “18 months,” The boy’s eyes light up

“18 months?! That’s so cool! Did you like, hear everything? Did someone confess something scandalous to you?” The boy hops closer to Mingyu, and it’s only now Mingyu notices the cast on his leg and the crutches that the boy bends to pick from the bench

Mingyu frowns, and it prompts the boy to rethink his words His expression shifts, “sorry, I didn’t mean to be insensitive,” Mingyu smiles, “it’s okay,” he says as he wheels closer to the boy, “what’s your name?” “Chan!” the bright smile is back, “and you?”

“Mingyu. What happened to your leg, Chan?” Mingyu asks. “Ah, I… fell down a flight of stairs,” Chan says, avoiding eye contact. Mingyu doesn’t think much of it. “What about you?” Chan asks “Car accident,” Mingyu replies. Chan hums, “is the damage permanent?”

Mingyu smirks, “I hope not,” “Good,” Chan says, “I don’t know the state of my foot though. They say there could be some permanency,” “Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” Mingyu says, “what do you do, Chan? Are you a student?” Chan’s face lights up, “I’m majoring in dance!”

Mingyu smiles, “that’s nice,” he says, “I have a friend that majored in Dance as well,” he says. And it surprises him because… who is that person? And how did Mingyu know? Maybe Wonwoo was right when he said Mingyu shouldn’t force it. That it would come naturally.

“Oh? That’s so cool!” Chan chuckles, and thankfully stops at that. He doesn’t question Mingyu further about it. “So, what do you do, Mingyu-ssi?” Chan asks. Welp. Mingyu celebrated too early Of course the question was bound to arise. “These days? Wander around aimlessly,”

Chan frowns, “huh?” Mingyu sighs into a smile, “I have amnesia,” Chan’s eyes widen, “oh…” Mingyu giggles at the shock on his face. Chan’s cute. “Wait, is your name even Mingyu?” Chan asks and Mingyu cackles out loud. It feels good to laugh again.

— Mingyu hates that his memories are always a blur That they’re all muffled Like the universe is actively trying to conceal his past from him “I wish you had chosen me over your job!” Mingyu wonders.. who said that…who was it said to… He can only wonder. That’s all

Mingyu wishes he could sleep But he’s terrified of what he’s going to learn His fear surpasses his need to know. It’s stopping him from chasing his past And he has no one to talk to about this He lies awake at unholy hours, thinking. Alone. Frightened.

Mingyu’s train of thought is interrupted by the sound of his stomach growling He turns his head to find the table beside his bed empty. And he doubts there are any snacks in the shelf either. He doesn’t remember the Nurse ever restocking them. Mingyu sighs.

He stretches his arms and neck, and leans over to pull his wheelchair. He really shouldn’t be doing this on his own. He really doesn’t want to fall face first on the floor. But to kill his hunger he needs to sleep and that’s not happening anytime soon.

With great difficulty and awkwardness, Mingyu somehow squeezes himself into the wheelchair. After a small celebration, Mingyu wheels himself out of his room The hospital at night is very creepy

All Mingyu hear are the sounds of machines beeping and some snores here and there The hallway is lit, yet deserted. Mingyu’s wheelchair squeaks and it doesn’t help his case. Slowly and surely, he makes his way to the kitchen

Once he turns the corner, he realises the kitchen light is on Mingyu’s not the only night crawler he supposes He can hear people chatting in there as well It keeps Mingyu’s irrational fear of the hospital at bay He wheels into the kitchen and the conversation becomes clearer

“… they say that the man that roams these halls at night is hauntingly beautiful…” A gasp, “really?” “Why yes,” the narrator says, “his face shines under the moonlight and he comes drenched in a long trench coat and a fedora,” “Like a grim-reaper?” “Exactly,” Another gasp

Mingyu smiles Is that Chan? And who is he with? “….they say, whoever’s room he visits, they die soon,” Chan gasps, “and you’ve seen this happen?! In this hospital?!” “Yes of course. I’ve seen the grim reaper. Don’t you know Grim Reapers frequent hospitals?”

Mingyu finally enters the kitchen to spot Chan and an old lady sitting on the dining table. When Chan notices Mingyu’s presence, he lets out a loud gasp, which he contains when he realises its just Mingyu “If I knew we were telling stories, I’d have come sooner,” Mingyu says

The old lady eyes him suspiciously. “Hyung, why are you here?” Chan asks as Mingyu wheels himself to the shelf. “I’m hungry. Why are you here?” he glances at the duo. Chan smiles, “Ajhumma is from the room next to mine! We were talking and then got hungry as well,”

Mingyu eyes the shelf, wondering how he can retrieve the contents from inside. “Don’t bother,” the Ajhumma says, “the shelves are empty,” she gets up and opens the door for Mingyu to see Empty indeed Mingyu hums. He turns to her, “I’m Mingyu. Car accident, amnesia,”

The Ajhumma cocks a brow and shakes his hand, “I’m Mirae. Battling cancer. Recovering,” Mingyu’s relieved to hear that she’s recovering. “So, what were you guys talking about?” Mingyu asks as he scans the kitchen. When he spots the fridge, he wheels over to it.

“Hyung! Did you know, there’s a grim reaper in this hospital?!” Chan exclaims as Mingyu grabs the frozen meatballs and tomatoes from the near-empty fridge He smirks as he goes over to the stove. “Hand me those things,” Mingyu says.

Chan obliges, passing Mingyu the box of spaghetti and some utensils. “Hyung! The grim reaper!” Chan emphasises, and Mingyu laughs. “It’s an urban legend, Chan-ah,” Mingyu replies, “it’s not real,” he says as he chops the tomatoes and onions.

He checks on the meatballs he left to thaw on the counter. “It is real. I’ve seen him with my own eyes,” Mirae interjects, handing Mingyu the pan he was reaching for. “Thanks,” Mingyu mumbles, “and no, Ma’am, you have not seen a grim reaper,”

“She has! She used to be in the intensive care wing!” Chan exclaims and Mingyu giggles Chan is still a child “I pity the guy you’ve attached this myth to,” Mingyu glances at Mirae. Mirae huffs, “Whatever,” she says as she assists Mingyu in pouring the spaghetti into the water

Silence befalls them for a while and only the sounds of water boiling and vegetables sizzling are heard “He visited the room next to mine. And the day after that, the patient died,” Mirae begins and Mingyu exhales as he stirs the tomato and onion.

Chan gasps, “the patient from my room?” Mirae nods. Chan turns to Mingyu with a horrified expression. “Hyung! I don’t wanna die!” he throws himself onto Mingyu “You’re scaring him, Ajhumma,” Mingyu says, and a mischievous smile makes its way to her face

“He’s fun to tease,” she winks as Mingyu turns off the stoves. Mirae takes over and helps Mingyu in straining the spaghetti Then, Mingyu dumps it in the sauce and the meatballs. “Wait, did you lie?!” Chan protests and Mingyu giggles

“Not at all,” Mirae says, “but I did exaggerate a little,” she winks at Chan and Mingyu giggles. He takes the sauce pan and turns, placing it on the table, “order up for table 6!” he announces, and the two huddle around him, marvelling at the dish

Before Mingyu can have a taste, Chan digs in. He swallows through the heat, and his eyes widen as he turns to Mingyu, “Hyung! This is so good!” he exclaims, taking another bite as Mirae takes her time in blowing the food and then eating it Her eyes widen pleasantly “Quite nice”

Mingyu smiles as he takes a bite too. “Quite nice? It’s amazing! Hyung, how did you pull this together with such little ingredients?! You’re like a chef!” Chan says, and Mingyu’s teeth bite into the spaghetti. Perfectly Al dente And then, the sense of déjà vu hits him

As Mirae and Chan continue to eat, Mingyu’s fork slips from his hand and drops to the floor as memories flood his mind “Crème brûlée for Table 17” “Fillet Mignon, rare, for Table 8” “Mingyu Hyung? Hyung! Chef!” Mingyu gasps out loud, looking around

Chan and Mirae turn to Mingyu with confused eyes. “What’s wrong?” Mirae asks Mingyu swallows, a tear trickling down his cheek, “I…I was a chef…” he says, “I was a chef!” he exclaims and Chan hugs him, “oh my god!!” Mingyu remembers Mingyu finally remembers

— Mingyu wipes the sweat off his brow as he walks down the kitchen line, observing everything. “Needs more salt,” he says after tasting a sauce. “Yes Chef!” the voice resonates above the hustle bustle “This is rare. The customer asked for medium rare,” Mingyu says

“Yes Chef!” Another says as Mingyu walks past him. He watches as a Panna cotta is placed on the line. With careful hands, Mingyu places a leaf of mint on the top, “Panna cotta for Table 12!” He rings the bells and calls out. A waiter rushes in and takes the plate away.

As the doors to the dining area open, Seungkwan enters, “Chef! Table 9 wants to see you,” he says and Mingyu sighs “The guy who sent the pasta back?” Mingyu wipes the sweat off his face and rubs his hands under the water He wipes them on his cloth and follows Seungkwan outside

Seungkwan sighs, “it’s still not al dente apparently,” Mingyu clenches his jaw, “does he even know what al dente is?” Mingyu puts on a smile as he walks through the dining area. Everyone’s watching him. He draws attention easily. “He doesn’t know what he’s talking about,”

“Hyung—“ Seungkwan tries to interject and calm his Hyung but they’re at the table already Mingyu smiles diplomatically,”Good evening. I’m the Head Chef here. Is there a problem?” he asks The man at the table huffs in front of who seem like his colleagues,“your pasta is horrid,”

Seungkwan gasps, glancing nervously at Mingyu who continues to smile, “what seems to be the problem, Sir?” The man looks Mingyu up and down, “it’s not cooked properly. There’s still a bite to it,” he slides the dish towards Mingyu, “it should melt in my mouth,”

Seungkwan’s getting anxious by the second But Mingyu maintains his composure He smiles, but there’s no joy behind those pupils, “let me do it again for you, Sir,” he takes the plate, and the man puffs proudly, having made a chef to oblige to him Mingyu bows and takes his leave

Seungkwan follows him back to the kitchen, trying to match Mingyu’s fast and furious steps. But Seungkwan’s unable to stop the explosion once they reach the Kitchen Mingyu basically tosses the glass dish on the table, gathering everyone’s attention

The kitchen comes to a halt as Mingyu takes a bite of the pasta Perfectly al dente He swallows, scanning the kitchen staff, his chefs “Fucking prick,” he mutters, tossing the spoon in the sink, “who cooked the Alfredo pasta?!” He yells and people flinch

A chef comes forth hesitantly, gaze lowered, “overcook the pasta this time,” Mingyu orders firmly, “that fucker doesn’t know what he’s talking about,” “Y-Yes Chef,” she mumbles and hurries back to her station And just when people think the storm has passed, it brews up again

“As I was passing by, I noticed that Table 4 got a strand of hair in their soup,” Mingyu announces, and a collective gasp erupts As if on cue, a waiter barges in, holding said bowl of soup, “Customer found a hair in her soup,” Horror dawns upon the kitchen staff as Mingyu sighs

He rubs his brows, already angry, “Who served the soup?” He asks calmly No one responds “Who served the soup?!” He yells this time, and the silence only grows louder. He scans the crowd for guilty faces “Hyung—“ Seungkwan tries to interject but Mingyu yells again, “WHO?!”

And before anyone can admit to it, he feels a hand on his shoulder and a soothing voice that echoes as it speaks, “Mingyu-yah, calm down. There’s no need to yell,” Mingyu comes to a halt as a figure walks by him, “apologise to the customer and give them complementary dessert”

He can’t make out the voice or the person, no matter how much he squints “You…” Mingyu calls faintly and the figure seems to turn around, walking over to him. He feels hands on his cheeks, “dont get so angry, Mingyu-yah, you’ll scare them away,” And Mingyu’s eyes snap open

— Mingyu looks out the window at the ducks. They’re moving in herds, zig zagging the park so cutely. Mingyu wants to play with them. He hears a knock on the door, and he turns to find Seungcheol walk in “Hey, how are you feeling?” Seungcheol asks and Mingyu hums, “okay”

Seungcheol purses his lips, “there are some people here to see you,” he says and Mingyu frowns as Seungcheol steps to the side to reveal the faces of two people Mingyu’s eyes widen. Seungkwan and Soonyoung. “Mingyu Hyung!” Seungkwan rushes to Mingyu and hugs him tightly

Mingyu hugs him back, tears welling in his eyes. It’s Seungkwan! It’s Seungkwan! Finally… “I’ve missed you!” Seungkwan confesses, “how are you?” Mingyu grins, “I’ve been better,” Seungkwan sniffles, “I really wanted to see you but Seungcheol Hyung told me it was risky,”

Mingyu sighs. He doesn’t want to argue with Seungcheol anymore. The man is just trying to protect Mingyu. Atleast he introduced Seungkwan to Mingyu instead of keeping him in the dark after Mingyu told him about the dream. “How’s the restaurant?” Mingyu asks.

Seungkwan wipes his tears, “I have everything under control, Chef!” and Mingyu chuckles He’s glad that someone as capable as Seungkwan is in charge. It truly puts Mingyu at ease. His attention is then diverted to Soonyoung, who’s watching Mingyu with tender eyes.

Seungkwan pulls away and Soonyoung leans in for a tight hug, which Mingyu reciprocates. “It’s good to see you, Hyung,” Mingyu exhales, and Soonyoung grins, “I’ve missed you!” They pull away and lock eyes, “idiot, how could you be so reckless and get into an accident?!”

Mingyu giggles. He pulls Soonyoung in for another hug, “I hear you’ve been choreographing for big names now,” Soonyoung laughs, “don’t believe any rumours! I still have a long way to go,” he says and Mingyu smiles. Mingyu’s about to speak up when the door opens to reveal Chan

“Oh, sorry, I didn’t know you had visitors,” Chan tries to backtrack but Mingyu assured him it’s fine, “come on in, Chan-ah,” Chan scans the people in the room and limps in, “sorry to disturb. I thought Mingyu Hyung might wanna go out—“ but Chan stops midway, gasping

His eyes widen when he sees Soonyoung, “K-Kwon Hoshi?!” he exclaims and Mingyu laughs as Chan proceeds to gawk over his idol The room fills with unexpected joy Meeting old friends and making new ones However, his heart yearns for something more Something else

— After hours of deliberation, Mingyu finally decides to call. He punches in the number in the hospital landline and patiently waits as it rings And just as Mingyu’s about to lose hope, his call is answered, “Yes?” Mingyu’s heart skips a beat at the voice “Wonwoo?”

It’s been a week since Mingyu last saw Wonwoo Honestly, Mingyu didn’t think Wonwoo would hold that long a grudge but… here we are “Mingyu?” Wonwoo’s voice becomes defensive, and Mingyu feels guilty about that. “Hey uh,” Mingyu doesn’t know what to say, “I…” Damn it!

“Yeah?” Wonwoo chides and Mingyu exhales. “I was a Chef. I owned— no I… I won a restaurant,” Mingyu feels the need to tell Wonwoo. He’d been itching to tell him ever since he found out. “That’s great, Mingyu-yah,” his voice does sound pleased. Mingyu gulps. “Yeah…”

Now what? What should he say?? How can he ask Wonwoo to come back?? “I met my old friends too. Seungcheol Hyung introduced us because I remembered them again finally,” Mingyu says

Wonwoo hums, “that’s good. That you’re starting to remember,” his voice falls silent Mingyu exhales. They become silent for a few minutes. “I saw the ducks. They were let out of their pen today,” Mingyu says. “I see,” “I wanna play with them,” “With the ducks?” “Yes”

Silence befalls “So what I’m saying is—“ Mingyu hates that he has to spell it out for Wonwoo. “I know what you’re saying, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo interrupts, “I’ll come over now, okay?” Mingyu’s eyes widen and he gasps. His heart skips several beats, “o-oh okay!”

“See you,” Wonwoo says “See you soon!” Mingyu exclaims and cuts the call He quickly wheels himself back to his room and into the washroom, past Jeonghan who’s leaving Mingyu’s medication on the table “Yah! Where are you going?” Jeonghan asks “To freshen up! Wonwoo’s coming!”

— “Thanks for coming. I really wanted to see the ducks,” Mingyu says as Wonwoo pushes his wheelchair towards the man-made pond where the ducks are “And you couldn’t come by yourself?” Wonwoo asks and Mingyu shrugs, “what if I roll off into the pond?” Wonwoo snorts at that

Mingyu feels proud of himself for making Wonwoo laugh like that Mingyu’s been kind of lonely without Wonwoo. And he isn’t entirely sure how to apologise to Wonwoo. Wonwoo seemed pretty hurt. Once they come to a halt, Wonwoo settles on the bench, watching the ducks silently

The ducks watch them curiously for a second before getting back to their own business “Here,” Mingyu brings out the satchel of bread crumbs, “here here,” he calls as he tosses the bread crumbs on the ground But it only seems to alarm the ducks who begin to scatter

“Yah! Come back!” Mingyu calls as he tosses more bread crumbs to lure them in. But the opposite happens Wonwoo chuckles, “yah, don’t get angry. You’re scaring them away,” he says, and Mingyu pauses. Wonwoo takes his hand, “be gentler,” Wonwoo says, sprinkling the crumbs

As the ducks waddle towards them, Wonwoo smiles, fascinated. But Mingyu continues to admire Wonwoo’s profile, deep in thought. He can’t look away

— Mingyu’s sitting on his bed, eyes focused on the pages of a book he’s reading silently He hears footsteps approach the room and braces himself The door opens and — “Ah, Hyung, you’re reading a book?” Chan asks, walking in and Mingyu sighs, closing the book

Chan settles down by Mingyu’s bed, browsing through his phone Mingyu clears his throat and opens the book again when he hears footsteps approaching his room He gets back into his former position and awaits the door to open And when it does, he’s disappointed yet again

“I didn’t know you read,” Mirae says, walking in and Mingyu groans, shutting his book once and for all. “I don’t,” Mingyu exhales, “I’m just…” When Mingyu said he could read a book, Wonwoo laughed! What does that mean, huh?? Mingyu can read a book!

Mirae and Chan blink at him, and Mingyu sighs. He tosses the book to the side. Who is he kidding? He can’t read a book! But can Wonwoo cook? Mingyu doesn’t know but hes definitely not better than Mingyu because Mingyu’s a chef who was apparently featured in many magazines!

“What are you guys upto today?” Mingyu asks Chan and Mirae Chan’s eyes widen as if coming to a realisation, “Hyung! Did you know, Ajhumma is very popular??” Mingyu turns to Mirae who avoids his gaze but keeps a proud smirk on her face “Is that so?” Mingyu wonders

Chan nods excitedly “She used to be a singer!! Do you know, “Last Night’s dream,” or “Me without us”? It was her!” Mingyu’s eyes widen. Those are some songs Mingyu grew up listening to. Mom and Dad would put those songs on and reminisce about their youth. “That’s you?!”

Mirae crosses her arms and smiles, “That’s me,” Mingyu’s genuinely taken aback. He scans Mirae’s body. She might look young and youthful but if it’s true that she sang those songs, then she’s atleast 72-75 “Wah,” Mingyu chuckles, “if I tell my parents they’ll go crazy,”

Mirae smirks proudly and Mingyu smiles “There are a lot of elderly patients here. You must be popular,” Mingyu says and Chan chirps in,“she is! People are always waiting outside her room!Everyone even greets her in the hallways!She’s a celebrity! I’m friends with a celebrity!”

Chan’s childlike excitement is adorable Mingyu glances at Mirae, who doesn’t seem to have come to hate the popularity she’s garnered over the years. She seems to revel in it. Mingyu’s known Mirae only for about a few weeks now. She’s a chatterbox when she wants to be.

But she only ever hangs out with the two of them. Knowing she’s a celebrity and could have many other friends, it makes Mingyu feel a little special.

“So kiddo, why are you reading …” Mirae grabs the book, “… pride and prejudice? Wow, I haven’t read that since I was a child,” Mingyu gasps, “it’s that old?!” And Chan bursts out laughing when Mirae glares at Mingyu, “what is that supposed to mean?” Mingyu shuts his mouth

Mirae sighs and gets back to the book, “so how do you like Mr. Darcy?”she asks “Who’s Mr. Darcy?” Mingyu asks and Mirae groans frustratedly, shutting the book, “have you not been reading the book?” Mingyu’s shoulders sag, “only pretending,” To make a good impression on Wonwoo

Mirae sighs. “Why did you choose this book though?” Mirae asks. Mingyu shrugs, “it was the only one available on prime,”’ “Prime?” Mirae cocks a brow, “why Prime when you could just visit the library here,” Mingyu’s eyes widen, “there’s a library!?” Mirae rolls her eyes

“Your cluelessness exhausts me,” Mirae says and Chan chuckles. Mingyu pouts and looks out the window. They sit in silence for a while. “Did you have a lover, Mingyu-yah?” Mirae asks and Mingyu scoffs, “havent you been briefed by the nurses about my amnesia ?”

Mirae glances at Mingyu, “about not telling you anything about your past? Yes i was told. However, I am your present , not your past. I know nothing about who you were so I think it’s a safe topic to talk about,” Well, Mingyu can’t disagree with that logic

He sighs and stretches Did he have a lover? The answer is probably yes. “I think so,” Mingyu says. Mirae cocks a brow, “you don’t remember at all?” Mingyu shakes his head, “not a clue,” Mirae and Chan hum “Do you think they’ve visited you?” Chan asks

Mingyu swallows nervously “Has my lover visited me?” he repeats the question Mingyu thinks long and hard But there’s only one thought in his mind. Something he has yet to confirm but has a strong feeling about.

“I hope they did,” Mingyu says, “if they didn’t, I must’ve been a horrible lover,” Mirae and Chan laugh “If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. Don’t be upset if they don’t visit you, okay?” Mirae pats his arm and Mingyu smiles /I do think they’ve visited me though/

As if on cue, the door slides open and this time, finally, it’s Wonwoo. Mingyu hurries to grab the book and pretend he’s reading but it’s too late. “Oh,” Wonwoo pauses as he scans the room, “I didn’t know you had guests,” he says, walking over to Mingyu

God, Wonwoo looks so good in suits And how many pairs does he even have?! “Ah, you must be Wonwoo Hyung,” Chan stands up and bows, “Mingyu Hyung is always talking about you,” Wonwoo smiles and bows back, “good to see you,”

His eyes turn to Mirae, who watches him with a raised brow. Wonwoo bows, “Hello, Mirae-ssi,” Mirae scans Wonwoo. “You know her?” Mingyu asks and Wonwoo smiles, “we’re acquainted, yes,” Mirae turns to Mingyu when awkward silence engulfs them

“You should go to the library with Wonwoo,” Mirae suggests, and it takes Mingyu aback, “what?” Mirae turns to Wonwoo, “take him, Wonwoo-yah,” and surprisingly, Wonwoo obliges, walking over to help Mingyu into the wheelchair.

“Wait don’t I get a say in this?” Mingyu asks as Wonwoo practically lifts and places him into the wheelchair. Mingyu’s never not going to get butterflies every time Wonwoo does this. Wonwoo’s core strength is truly something “No,” Mirae and Wonwoo say in unison and Chan laughs

— Mingyu has a lot to think about as Wonwoo wheels him to the aforementioned library 1. Just how good are the amenities of the hospital? 2. What are they going to do that the library? 3. Just how does Wonwoo lift him up like that?

“You know, you’re a bit smaller than me,” Mingyu begins as they enter the Library, “leaner too. But you’re able to manoeuvre me so easily,” Wonwoo raises a brow, “are you doubting my strength?” Z Mingyu hums. “I’m merely trying to decide the physics involved,” Mingyu says

Wonwoo smirks as he stops by a table. “I think it’s because you lost weight in your coma,” he settles down on a chair, “you’re not that heavy Mingyu-yah,”! But it’s not about that, is it? It’s the technique!

“not drastically,” Mingyu says, “do you have practice? Of lifting men?” he questions. Wonwoo exhales and then smiles. “Why can’t it be women?” Good point. “I don’t know? Men are denser…” Wonwoo laughs

“I have good core strength is all,” Wonwoo reasons and stands up. Mingyu settles for that answer for now. But he bows to get to the bottom of it. It hurts his pride a little, yknow? Being manhandled like that?

“What book do you want to read?” Wonwoo asks, walking amidst the shelves Mingyu instinctively follows him, “none actually,” Wonwoo shoots him a pointed glare and Mingyu caves, sighing, “uh, Pride and Prejudice?”

“Oh?” Wonwoo seems surprised, “I didn’t know you were into love stories,” Mingyu huffs. So it’s a love story?! “Well, yeah. I love love… yknow?” Wonwoo giggles at Mingyu’s awkwardness. If he knows that Mingyu hasn’t heard of the book, he doesn’t say anything.

“Let’s see all Jane Austen books. We can pick which one to read,” Wonwoo says, walking down the aisles and Mingyu groans inwardly. He doesn’t want to read! Ugh he hates reading. Why is Mingyu always dragged to libraries? More importantly, why doesn’t he object?! He’s always—

Mingyu pauses. He turns to Wonwoo, who simply picks out a book and places it on Mingyu’s lap. Mingyu stares at the book. And then instinctively follows Wonwoo down the aisle as he picks and places books on Mingyu’s lap. It’s getting harder to wheel now!

“You know what, I think I should start working on my arms. I used to be jacked you know?” Mingyu speaks up. Working out would make wheeling himself around easier. “Oh? You remember that?” Wonwoo asks, placing another book on Mingyu’s lap.

“I remember admiring my muscles in the mirror everyday,” Mingyu flexes his biceps, now a lot more deflated than before. Wonwoo chuckles as he sits on the floor, stretching his legs. Mingyu wheels to the opposite side so he can face him. “I haven’t been to the gym in ages,”

“Okay now you’re just lying,” Mingyu rolls his eyes. “Not a lie!” Wonwoo laughs, “I just don’t have the time to frequent it often,” Mingyu finds that hard to believe because he’s felt Wonwoo’s solid biceps. Not to mention his rock hard torso. Very uh, firm.

“I’m not sure I believe you but anyway,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo laughs in defeat, “What do you do in the rest of your time?” Mingyu changes the topic. He’s more interested in prying more information out of Wonwoo.

Wonwoo ponders for a while, as if compiling all the information he can safely disseminate without raising too many eyebrows. It hurts that Wonwoo’s still weary of Mingyu, that he doesn’t share much willingly.

“I wake up. Give Nero food. Brush my teeth. Have breakfast. I exercise a little, maybe go for a walk. Come back, write a little. Give Nero food. Attend meetings if I have to. Write again. Give Nero food. And then come to visit you. Go back home, have dinner. Nero food. Sleep,”

“That’s… oddly specific,” Mingyu says, jaw hanging open at that monotonous delivery of dialogue. Wonwoo winces, “boring, isn’t it?” Mingyu shrugs, “who am I to judge? All I do is eat, sleep and repeat,” Wonwoo bites back a smile.

“I have to take care of myself so I stick to a routine,” Wonwoo explains. Simple enough. Mingyu falls silent and Wonwoo opens one of the books. “Pride and Prejudice, huh,” he mumbles, flipping through pages, “it’s a timeless classic,”

Mingyu hums. But he’s more interested in something else. He takes the books and places them on the floor next to Wonwoo. Wonwoo looks up at him, confused, but Mingyu’s next move startles him even more. Mingyu raises his upper half off the wheelchair in an attempt to shift

Wonwoo springs into action, aiding his movement from the wheelchair to the floor, “yah! What are you doing?” Wonwoo scolds as he helps Mingyu settle on the floor. Mingyu pulls himself into the empty spot beside Wonwoo, “I want to with you, face to face, eye to eye,”

Wonwoo blinks at Mingyu who adjusts himself in a comfortable position beside Wonwoo. “You…are weird,” Wonwoo sighs as he grabs the book once Mingyu is all settled. Mingyu grins at him, “I know,” he says, shoulder pressed against Wonwoo’s.

Wonwoo sighs and flips through the pages. Mingyu’s never been able to sit beside Wonwoo. He’s always in that stupid wheelchair. But sitting like this, side by side on the library floor… it allows Mingyu to escape the reality that he can’t walk.

“How do you read so much, Wonwoo?” Mingyu asks after a few moments of silence. Wonwoo takes a deep breath, “how do you cook?” Ah. Like that. Well, if your heart’s in it, nothing can stop you. Mingyu gets that.

They fall silent for a while. Mingyu rests his head against the shelf, sleepy. “What do you have for breakfast?” He mumbles “Hm?” “Breakfast..” “Ah, breakfast. Hm, mostly toast,” Wonwoo replies. “Every day?” Mingyu asks and a Wonwoo nods, “kinda,”

“What about lunch?” Mingyu asks “Ramen,” Mingyu scoffs, “are you serious?”’ Wonwoo shrugs, “I don’t really know how to cook,” He gets that. “Dinner?” “Ramen—“ “Oh for gods sake!” Mingyu exclaims, “you say you wanna take care of yourself but eat ramen twice a day?!”

Wonwoo winces, guilty Mingyu’s glare softens and he sighs, “you know, if I could, I’d cook all three meals for you every day,” Wonwoo’s eyes widen, “huh?” Mingyu exhales, “but alas, I can’t,”

Wonwoo swallows and turns to his book, “three meals every day is a long commitment, yknow?” Mingyu stretches his arms, “is it?” Wonwoo licks his lips. Silence prevails again. “I know what you should do. You should have dinner with me everyday,” “What?” Wonwoo snaps

“Yeah,” Mingyu turns to him, “I can cook dinner for us everyday. There’s a kitchen here,” Wonwoo gulps, “Mingyu I don’t want to trouble you—“ “It’s not trouble, Won,” Mingyu smiles, “think of it as me being able to cook again, albeit using you as an excuse. Hm, what say?”

Wonwoo holds Mingyu’s gaze. He contemplates for a while. “Then you have to promise me something too,” Wonwoo says. “What is it?” “That you’ll stop skipping your physical therapy sessions,” Mingyu gasps, caught in the act

“The sessions aren’t helping, okay?” Mingyu pouts. “How do you know?” Wonwoo asks. “Uh I’m still on a wheelchair?”

Wonwoo exhales. “Mingyu-yah, don’t think of it like that. Progress is slow. You’re going to heal. You won’t always be like this,” Mingyu swallows. Somehow, Wonwoo always knows what to say. His words do make Mingyu feel better.

Wonwoo watches Mingyu, awaiting an response. Mingyu exhales. “If I say yes, will you come to dinner?” Wonwoo’s eyes light up. “Of course!” he chirps Mingyu bites his lip It’s the same look on his face as when he talks about Nero “Then, it’s a deal,” they shake hands

Satisfied, Mingyu shuts his eyes, “what’s your favourite quote from Pride and Prejudice?” Mingyu mumbles sleepily. Wonwoo seems to reply but Mingyu’s far too sleepy to process it. He feels himself leaning his head onto Wonwoo’s shoulder Wonwoo push him off This is.. nice

— “Ugh! Do you even need to read all these books?!” Mingyu groans as another book is added to the stack of books he’s carrying “It’s important I read more, okay?!” the voice nags, “plus, no one asked you to accompany me!”

Mingyu rolls his eyes, “of course I had to accompany you, you idiot,” “Why? I wish you didn’t because all you do is complain when you step into a library,” Mingyu exhales, “I may not like the library but I like you and wanna spend more time with you,”

“Y-You what?” Well, the cats out of the bag. There’s no point in lying now. “I like you, W—“

( A/N — corrections) I own a restaurant * Wonwoo doesn’t push him off*

(A/N — to be clear, the last excerpt was a dream)

— “Wah, aren’t you tired, Hyung?” Chan says as he enters the empty gym. Mingyu turns to him, continuing lifting the dumbbell. He smirks as Chan hops over to him, “why would I be tired?” Chan shrugs, “I heard you went to therapy as well. And now you’re in the gym?”

Mingyu grins as he places the dumbbell on the floor “Where has this motivation come from?” Chan asks and Mingyu huffs, “I used to be jacked, yknow? I wanna get back to that body,” Chan hums, buying the reason. He doesn’t know Mingyu’s real intentions are to one day manhandle W—

Well, Chan doesn’t need to know that. “I thought you said therapy didn’t help,” Chan says and Mingyu sighs. “I was convinced otherwise,” Mingyu replies “By whom?” “Wonwoo,” Mingyu stretches. He flexes his biceps in the mirror. Nice!

Chan hums. “Wonwoo Hyung is interesting, don’t you think?” Mingyu frowns. If anything, Wonwoo’s mysterious. Mingyu knows nothing about him. “Do you not like him?” Mingyu asks and Chan gasps, “no, no! That’s now what I meant,” he quickly denies.

“Then what do you mean?” Mingyu pries as guilt takes over Chan’s face. “I just…” he glances at Mingyu nervously, “I wonder if he’s your lover from the past,” Mingyu’s eyes widen. Well, Mingyu’s not stupid. He’s definitely considered the possibility.

But there’s no conclusive evidence and Mingyu knows better than to jump to conclusions that may or may not bring harm in the future “Why do you think that?” Mingyu asks, wiping the sweat off his forehead and putting on a shirt

Chan purses his lips, “think about it, Hyung. He visited you every day when you were asleep. Only lovers would do that,” Mingyu scoffs. Chan does have a point. But wait. “How did you know he visited me?” Mingyu asks, he doesn’t remember telling Chan that.

“Ajhumma told me. She says that’s how she knows Wonwoo,” Chan explains. Mingyu hums. It makes sense. He wonders if Mirae knows more things about Wonwoo. But Mingyu can’t go behind Wonwoo’s back and inquire about him.

Mingyu exhales and wheels himself out the gym, “I’ve thought about it. But it seems unlikely,” Chan follows him out, “why so? You two make a good pair,” Mingyu blushes at that, “dating doesn’t simply mean looking good together, Chan,” Chan shrugs, “I’m just saying,”

Mingyu sighs. Mingyu’s trying not to think about his past right now. He’s trying to focus on healing and moving on, knowing damn well that his past will catch up to him sooner or later And his presents consists of Wonwoo. Not… whatever connection they have from the past

So as curious as Mingyu is, he’s going to keep his thoughts at bay because he likes what he has going on for him right now “Let’s go have dinner,” he suggests, “I’ll cook,” Chan grins, his curiousity forgotten, “Okay!”

— “What are we having today?” Mirae asks and Mingyu raises a brow, “I don’t remember inviting you Ajhumma,” Mirae scoffs, crossing her arms, “you rude brat! Have you no manners?!” Mingyu and Chan laugh. “Ajhumma, you’re always welcome,” Chan says as she glares at Mingyu

Anger forgotten, she grabs the chopsticks, “answer me,” she says calmly and Mingyu grins. “Before I reveal that, I must inform you that Wonwoo will be joining us for dinners from now on,” Mingyu announces Chan’s eyes widen but Mirae’s remain the same, indifferent

“Are you two a 1+1 package? Why are you always together?” Mirae asks and Mingyu chuckles, “he’s my friend,” and that should suffice as an answer. Mirae stares at him and then looks away, “whatever. What are we having?” Mingyu grins.

He opens the lid of the sauce pan, “Seafood Japchae!” he declares and Mirae finally shows a sliver of emotion, her eyes widening in fascination and joy. Chan is practically drooling. And right on time, the door opens and Wonwoo enters.

He seems taken aback by the guests but composes himself when his eyes land on Mingyu, who’s smiling from ear to ear. “Hi,” Wonwoo says, taking his seat beside Mingyu who won’t stop staring at him, eyes wide and a wide smile on his face.

“Hey,” Mingyu chirps, excited for Wonwoo to taste his cooking finally. Wonwoo smiles shyly, grabbing the chopsticks, “what are we having?” he asks as he scoots closer to Mingyu. Mingyu clears his throat, and gestures towards the dish he made. “Seafood japchae!”

Maybe Mingyu’s seeing things because Wonwoo’s reaction is delayed. “Oh!” he exclaims, forwarding his chopsticks to take the food but Mingyu stops him, “you’re a bad liar,” he mumbles. Wonwoo frowns, “huh?” Mingyu watches him intently, and Wonwoo crumbles under his gaze.

“I don’t like seafood,” Wonwoo averts his gaze and Mingyu’s world comes falling apart. He should’ve known He should’ve known! And look what’s happened! Wonwoo doesn’t eat seafood! And Mingyu made seafood! Stupid! Stupid!

“It’s okay, though. I’ll eat only the cold noodles,” Wonwoo says but Mingyu grabs his hand, exhaling. “No,” Mingyu says, “I’ll cook you something else,” “Mingyu-yah, you don’t have to—“ “Yes, I do,” Mingyu turns his wheelchair around and goes to scour through the shelves

But he finds nothing but Ramen. Great. He’s going to have cook ramen for Wonwoo after he berated him about eating nothing but Ramen at home. Mingyu exhales. Suddenly, Wonwoo walks behind him and grabs the ramen from the top shelf, helping Mingyu out

“Ramen it is, I guess,” Mingyu groans as he wheels over to the stove. Wonwoo bites his lip, following him, “you know, ramen tastes best when someone else makes it for you,” “Is that so?” Mingyu asks and Wonwoo hums, “I’m sure it’ll be yummy , Mingyu-yah,”

“It’s ramen, Won. It tastes the same no matter who makes it,” Mingyu argues, putting water to boil. Wonwoo shakes his head, shuffling closer, “no. It depends on who’s making it. And since you’re making it, I’m sure it’ll be tasty,” Mingyu glances at Wonwoo and pouts.

“You’re good with words,” Mingyu bites back a smile, no longer upset. “Well that’s why I’m a writer,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu laughs. As the two fall deeper into conversation, Mirae and Chan watch them silently. “It’s like they’ve forgotten we’re even here,” Chan notes

Mirae hums, watching the two. “Ajhumma, don’t they look good together? They have such good chemistry,” Chan chirps excitedly. Mirae stays silent for a moment. “They shouldn’t be together,” she says “What?” Mirae shakes her head, “it’s nothing,”

—- “How do you like that?” Mingyu watches Wonwoo slurp in one long noodle. He looks ridiculous. Wonwoo smiles, eyes wide, “good! It’s the best Ramen I’ve ever had!” Mingyu rolls his eyes but ends up smiling anyway. Wonwoo seems to be enjoying it.

“Do you have any other particularities about food? I really want to cook you something nice,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo shakes his head, “nope. I’ll eat anything that’s not seafood,” Mingyu chuckles. Wonwoo’s cute. “Alright then. Be ready to be blown away,” Mingyu nudges him

Wonwoo chuckles and Mingyu goes back to eating. As the two converse, Mirae and Chan can only watch in disbelief. It’s insane how they don’t realise they’re not alone. “I feel like I’m intruding” Chan whispers to Mirae and the latter just shrugs.

There’s an idea bubbling inside Chan’s head and he can’t bring himself to keep it at bay “Wonwoo Hyung, are you single?” Chan blurts out and for some reason, it’s Mingyu that chokes in his food while Wonwoo turns to him softly “Pardon?” Wonwoo asks “Are you single?”

“Oh..” Wonwoo shrinks in his seat, looking at their faces. Mingyu did ask Wonwoo, but he doesn’t remember getting a proper answer. Now that Chan’s asked it, he wonders if Wonwoo will answer him. Wonwoo seems nervous as he glances at Mingyu and Mirae. “Uh, yes, I’m single,”

He finally says and Chan’s eyes light up “Ah is that so? Mingyu Hyung is single too!” Chan says, making Mingyu choke on his noodles a second time. Wonwoo glances at Mingyu and lowers his gaze, harbouring a soft shy smile as Mingyu composes himself, “yah! What are you saying?!”

Chan rolls his eyes, “I’m just putting it out there,” Mingyu swallows, “how do you know I’m single?” Chan shrugs, “you’re the one who said if you had a lover, they’d visit you. No one visits you, Hyung,”

And though they’ve had this conversation before, though Chan’s only joking…. It feels different because Wonwoo tenses beside him, and it makes Mingyu curious, which makes him feel helpless because Wonwoo’s not going to want to talk about it and… Awkward silence befalls

And Mingyu wonders why Wonwoo looks so guilty Mingyu gulps nervously, anxiously. Chan seems to notice the shift in the atmosphere and falls silent as well, guilt brewing in his chest. Maybe he misspoke.

Mingyu doesn’t know how to neutralise the situation and settles for eating his food in silence. But the oldest among them speaks up “I’m single too,” Mirae says, and all eyes turn to her. She continues eating and they exchange glances, ‘wasn’t that obvious?’

Mirae looks up and glares at them all, “what a rude bunch of children!” and laughter erupts. “Ah, Ajhumma, we’re sorry. We didn’t expect that from you,” Chan explains and Mirae rolls her eyes. “I get love letters to this day,” she boasts. Mingyu raises his brows, “really?”

Mirae shrugs, “however, I don’t wish for a companion,” “Why is that?” Mingyu asks. Mirae sighs, “love is exhausting,” she glances at Wonwoo, and then at Mingyu, “cancer was painful enough. I don’t need love to make me feel worse than I already do,”

The mood is somber again. “I disagree,” Mingyu speaks up. All eyes turn to him. “You’ll know over time, Mingyu-yah, that you’re better off alone,” Mirae says. Mingyu shakes his head, “no I… I don’t. I am alone. And I don’t like it,” he begins

Mirae listens intently as Mingyu tries to voice his turmoil, “I don’t have a chunk of my memories. More importantly, I recollect nothing about the person that I used to love and it pains me because no one has shown up to tell me they love me, and that they’ve missed me and—“

Mingyu comes to a halt when he realises he’s becoming overtly emotional over a silly topic “Sorry,” Mingyu exhales, a little overwhelmed He can pretend like it doesn’t bother him, like he doesn’t need to focus on the past — but how can he simply move on??

He’s in a hospital He can’t walk He doesn’t remember a good chunk of his life before the accident And the one person he knows loves him dearly won’t come visit him. Or show themselves. And no one here seems to understand his problems whatsoever!

No one says anything, and the rest of the dinner passes by in painful silence. — Wonwoo offers to stay and wash the dishes Mirae and Chan have retired to their respective rooms Mingyu just keeps his face planted on the table as he listens to the cling clang of the utensils

“Thanks for the dinner,” Wonwoo says Mingyu doesn’t reply “Mingyu,” No reply yet again. Wonwoo washes the lather off his hands and heads to the table, sitting down beside Mingyu who has his face turned away and cheek planted on the table surface “Hey..”

“You know why it bothers me that my lover won’t show up?” Mingyu speaks up. Wonwoo swallows, “why?” “It makes me believe I was a horrible lover who was not even worth visiting,” Wonwoo gasps “Mingyu, that’s not—“ “A letter, a call, anything… anything would’ve been fine,”

“But there was only silence,” Mingyu finishes Wonwoo swallows, “Mi—“ “I know I had a lover. I dream of them from time to time. About the sweet memories. I know it’s real. But it makes me wonder where did I go wrong if the person who loved me so dearly became a stranger to me,”

A tear trickles down Mingyu’s eye It’s tiring to put up a brave front It’s tiring to joke around and laugh while a storm brews inside Mingyu’s heart As his mind wonders what it was like to be held in someone’s embrace, to be loved

Mingyu takes deep breaths and tries to suppress his turmoil It’d be embarrassing if Wonwoo finds out Mingyu’s crying Mingyu’s about to sit up when he feels an arm around his shoulders, and warmth on his back. Mingyu gasps.

“Wh-“ “I’m sorry,” Wonwoo says, tightening his hold, “I’m sorry you’re alone,” his voice breaks Mingyu’s lips quiver and he tries to hold back his tears “It’s nothing you need to apologise for, Won,” Mingyu says,“it’s my fault for missing a person who is a stranger to me now,”

— Mingyu feels slender fingers slide something into the space above his ear When he turns, he’s met with a camera that clicks a photo “Haha, my two favourite things : Mingyu and a Dandelion,” Mingyu smiles, waiting for the camera to lower so he can see

But as it begins to lower, Mingyu’s snapped out of his thoughts “Mirae-ssi, Good morning!” he hears and turns to find a man waving in Mingyu’s direction When Mingyu turns back, he’s surprised to see Mirae walking up to where he’s seated in the park She waves at the other man

Mingyu watches as Mirae walks over to him slowly, hands behind her back. “I forget how popular you are among the elderly,” Mingyu comments as she sits down beside him Mirae shrugs, “I hat can I say? They used to call me the Nightingale of the Nation,” Mingyu hums.

Mirae and Mingyu have never been alone like this. Chan’s usually the buffer. So Mingyu doesn’t really know what to say to her. And leaving isn’t as easy. He can’t walk away. “Still down in the dumps?” Mirae speaks up and Mingyu sighs “About what?” Mingyu asks “Your past,”

Mingyu swallows nervously. It’s been a tense few days. And perhaps his mood hasn’t visibly improved. He’s lost the ability to pretend everything is alright too. If Mirae’s noticed, others have too. But no one’s said anything to him.

Mingyu hates that people walk on eggshells around him “It doesn’t matter. I’ll get over it in a few days,” Mingyu grumbles Mirae hums, “you might. But you’re wrong about the past not mattering. The past matters a lot, Mingyu-yah,”

Mingyu gulps anxiously. “Well, there’s nothing I can do about it anyway,” Mingyu speaks up, staring at the flowers blooming next to him. He picks one, a dandelion. “I’d going to be stuck here for a very long time,” he says, twisting the flower between his fingers.

Mirae nods, “it only feels like a long time if you don’t try to get better, Mingyu-yah,” “What’s that supposed to mean?” Mingyu asks, feeling a little cornered. Mirae glances at his feet, “therapy. If you do it with your heart, you’ll heal quicker than you can even imagine,”

“But I do go to therapy. Even though it doesn’t work—“ “That,” Mirae interjects, “that attitude won’t work. You have to be optimistic. You’ll heal, Mingyu-yah,” Mingyu huffs, “sorry but I don’t believe that. That the mind affects the healing process,” Mirae exhales

“You’re right that it doesn’t always work. I once knew someone who was optimistic and happy, even as his body slowly died. He never healed,” she falls silent. Mingyu gege uncomfortable at the thought of dying, at the thought of not healing, how her tone has shifted entirely

“But,” she speaks up, “think of it this way. The faster you heal, the sooner you can literally chase your past, hm?” Mingyu stares at her. “You can run after the things you currently love or once loved about if you heal. Maybe that should be your motivation,” she suggests

Mingyu’s eyes widen. “That’s actually not bad advice,” Mingyu smiles softly, turning to look at the dandelion in his hand. Mirae shrugs, “I’m old. So naturally, Im wise,” Mingyu chuckles. Mirae’s not a bad person. Mingyu can see that. She’s not very simple either

“Have you healed, Mirae-ssi?” Mingyu asks, and Mirae pouts. “I’d like to think so,” she says, taking in a deep breath. “Then why are you still in the hospital?” Mirae falls silent for a moment, lost in thought “I don’t have a past to chase after,” she replies

Mingyu has so many questions But he saves them for another time. “Aren’t you afraid of being alone?” Mingyu asks. She’s in a hospital. Mingyu’s never seen her get any visitors. She turns to him, “is that what terrifies you, Mingyu-yah? That you’ll be alone?” Mingyu swallows

Mirae hums, “well, it’s only natural. Human crave companionship. Platonic or romantic. Seems like you yearn for the latter,” Mingyu exhales. “I don’t exactly yearn for it. I just….miss it,” “How can you miss something you’re not sure you had?”

Mingyu chuckles, somber. “That’s the thing. I’m sure I had it,” his voice tremors, “and I’m scared that if I don’t remember, I’ll never be able to have it back,” Mirae doesn’t say anything. But it feels good to have let those thoughts out.

“Well, that’s out of my area of expertise,” she says and Mingyu giggles. “But you’re not exactly alone, are you, Mingyu-yah?” She asks, staring at the horizon. Mingyu frowns and turns to look at what she’s looking at. And he’s surprised to see Wonwoo walking towards them.

He’s still far away, and probably can’t hear this conversation, or Mingyu’s heartbeat. Mingyu clenches the dandelion tightly, lowering his gaze from Wonwoo who’s dazzling in the sunlight. “You both are acquainted, aren’t you, Ajhumma? You and Wonwoo,” “That we are,”

“Can you tell me something about him?” Mingyu asks. Mirae smiles, “that, only Wonwoo can do,” Damn it. Well, it was worth a shot. “Right,” Mingyu scoffs. “He’s the same as you, y’know?” Mirae says. “In what way?” Mingyu asks.

As far as he knows, their personalities are polar opposite Mirae takes a deep breath, “like you, he’s also lost something. And like you, he’s also in search for something,” Mingyu’s eyes widen. He glances at Wonwoo who is walking up the hill.

“I hope you both find what you’re looking for,” Mirae says as she gets up, “and I hope when the times get rough that you’ll treat him as tenderly as he treats you,” Mingyu’s brows furrow. “What’s that supposed to mean?” But Mirae ignores him as Wonwoo approaches them.

“Good morning,” Wonwoo bows to Mirae, who acknowledges him with a nod and leaves, not sparing Mingyu another glance. As Wonwoo walks to him, Mingyu’s left feeling confused. What did Ajhumma mean? What did.. what even… “Hey,” Wonwoo says softly, and Mingyu looks up

Mingyu stares at Wonwoo’s face for a while, lost in thought Ajhumma was right Mingyu isn’t alone after all. He raises his hand, showing Wonwoo the dandelion. Wonwoo’s eyes widen. “For you,” Mingyu offers. Wonwoo stares at the flower in disbelief almost, but smiles.

He’s about to pluck the flower from his hand when Mingyu retracts his hand. The move confuses Wonwoo, but when Mingyu tugs at his hand, he kneels on the ground in front of Mingyu. Very gently, Mingyu places the dandelion on Wonwoo’s ear, making the latter gasp. “Pretty,”

Wonwoo gasps softly, and lowers his gaze, blushing, “thanks,” “Do you like dandelions?” Mingyu asks, his heart racing as he awaits the answer. Wonwoo stares at him, contemplating. And then, he smiles, “I do,” Mingyu’s heart skips a beat and he lowers his gaze, shy

Mingyu smiles, genuinely for the first time in days. “I assume you’re feeling better,” Wonwoo says, and Mingyu nods, “yeah,” he says, looking up, “much better,” Their eyes lock in silent understanding and Wonwoo smiles, scratching the back of his neck “I’m glad,” he says

Mingyu studies Wonwoo’s features. Sharp yet soft Pretty “Do you like photography, Won?” Mingyu asks and Wonwoo gasps out loud, “h-how did…how did you know?” Mingyu smiles, “I dont know. I just… did,” Wonwoo swallows, “i uh, I love photography, and videography,”

“You should get your camera over, some time. Take pictures,” Mingyu suggests, pushing the bangs off Wonwoo’s face. Is it him or is Wonwoo’s gave redder now? Wonwoo’s eyes enlarge and he springs to his feet, averting his gaze, “yeah I…I’ll try,” Mingyu smiles looking at him

Right now, he’s not even thinking about the past All he can think about is… The present Now Wonwoo… And he looks forward to new beginnings “I uh, I have to leave early, today, Mingyu-yah. I have a meeting,” Wonwoo clears his throat, “so I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”

Wonwoo tries to turn around and slip away but Mingyu grabs his wrist, stopping him. When Wonwoo turns to look at him, Mingyu grins, “I will do my best to heal, Won. And then I’ll…” Mingyu swallows his words. “And then you’ll?” Wonwoo asks

Mingyu smiles, “it’s nothing,” he dismisses, letting go of Wonwoo’s hand. “I’ll see you tomorrow?” Mingyu asks Wonwoo purses his lips, “same time,”

Mingyu grins, so much that his cheeks are starting to hurt “See you, Won,” Mingyu says softly. He’s excited for a new day. Wonwoo smiles. He turns around and walks away, waving to Mingyu as he leaves. Is Wonwoo’s neck red? Mingyu giggles, ‘cute,’

— “You don’t have to do this, yknow? There’s a nurse who can do this,” Mingyu says as Jeonghan runs his fingers through his hair, lathering the shampoo Jeonghan hums, “I know. But I’m a male nurse so it’s my duty to take up jobs that might make the women uncomfortable,”

Mingyu hums. “I just don’t want to take up too much of your time is all,” Mingyu says, eyes closing. Jeonghan’s doing a marvellous job at massaging his scalp, damn. It’s making Mingyu sleepy.

“Plus, I haven’t been able to visit you as much since I got transferred to the ICU,” Jeonghan says, “I don’t know when I’ll be posted back here,” Mingyu hums. Jeonghan has been super busy since he got moved to the ICU wing temporarily.

This does feel nice. “Have you spoken to Seungcheol Hyung?” Mingyu asks as silence almost takes over Jeonghan’s fingers stop moving momentarily before resuming their activity. “No,” he replies Mingyu purses his lips, “I’m sorry things are weird between you guys cuz of me”

Mingyu’s the one forcing Jeonghan to lie to Seungcheol Hyung, something the man clearly hates doing despite saying he doesn’t care about Seungcheol anymore. It makes Mingyu believe Jeonghan still very much loves Seungcheol and regrets breaking up with him

Jeonghan sighs. “Don’t beat yourself up over it,” Jeonghan says, pouring water over Mingyu’s hair, “I’m doing this for my friends, and Seungcheol’s being unreasonable in some aspects so,” Mingyu smirks Jeonghan is the only person he knows who can butt head against Seungcheol

Friends huh Right Wonwoo’s Jeonghan’s friend too. Mirae said something about Wonwoo searching for something he’d lost. Does Jeonghan know about that? Is that why he’s ‘helping’ Wonwoo? Does that mean Mingyu has what Wonwoo’s searching for? Mingyu swallows

It just makes Mingyu believe more ardently in the thought that he and Wonwoo have a past One that no one wants Mingyu to know for his safety But it’s blatantly obvious that … Wonwoo and Mingyu… Mingyu pushes the thought to the side No it’s not obvious It’s a thought

“Have you been going to therapy?” Jeonghan asks, lathering soap on Mingyu’s thigh and feet. Mingyu swallows, like a child in front of his parent, “Yes,” And though he’s telling the truth, he’s at fault for neglecting therapy initially Jeonghan sighs, pouring water on his leg

“Then why don’t I see progress, hm? Don’t you want to heal and leave this place?” Jeonghan asks. Mingyu gasps softly. It’s true Mingyu can leave once he’s done with therapy but … what after that? He goes back to his life while still missing a chunk of his memories?

And.. and what about Wonwoo? Will Wonwoo and He… will… “It doesn’t work,” Mingyu says, and Jeonghan sighs. “Have you really tried making an effort?” Jeonghan asks, and that’s where Mingyu’s caught. Because no. He’s not really put an effort in, has he?

Mingyu’s guilty of that. When he falls silent, Jeonghan doesn’t say anything anymore. “You have therapy in 10 minutes right?” Jeonghan asks and Mingyu sighs. “Yes,” “Good. Today, why don’t you try making an effort to heal, Mingyu-yah?” Mingyu purses his lips. “Okay,”

— “Let’s get started, shall we, Mingyu-ssi?” Hyerin springs to her feet when Mingyu wheels into the room. Mingyu feels a little guilty. He’s been nothing but ignorant and lazy. But she continues to greet him and treat him with the same enthusiasm and sincerity as day 1

Mingyu sighs. “Doc, before we begin, I want to apologise for how I’ve behaved in the past. I want to heal soon and I’ve decided to give it my all. I hope you can forgive me for my past and help me get better,” God that feels good to get off his chest

Hyerin seems surprised, and then breaks into a smile. “That’s good attitude, Mingyu-ssi,” she says, tying up her hair, “I’ll heal you as soon as possible, okay?” Mingyu smiles as she walks over to him. “May I ask where this motivation has come from?”

“Oh I—“ The door suddenly opens and a woman walks in. She halts when she sees Mingyu and gasps. “Ah, sorry, I didn’t know you were busy, Unnie,” she says, hiding behind the door Hyerin smiles, “it’s okay, come on in,” Mingyu watches the girl curiously.

“Ah, I’m good. I’ll see you for lunch! Bye unnie!” She says and rushes out. Hyerin laughs out loud, making Mingyu turn to her, “what’s so funny?” Hyerin shakes her head, “ah, that’s Minju. She has a crush on you,” Mingyu’s eyes widen, “what?”

Hyerin nods, “she was nervous to see you. So she ran away,” Mingyu swallows. “Oh I’m uh, flattered,” Mingyu blushes. Hyerin chuckles. “Minju is a good kid. Can I give introduce you guys sometime? Maybe you can get a cup of coffee sometime?” Mingyu blinks Coffee?

Like a date? Mingyu gulps nervously. “Why not give it a try, hm?” Hyerin asks, and Mingyu looks up at her, “I—“ The door opens yet again, this time, to reveal Wonwoo. “No!” Mingyu says immediately, “sorry I… no,” he tells Hyerin as Wonwoo walks over to them, clueless

Hyerin exhales, “okay. I’ll let her know,” she pats Mingyu’s shoulder as Wonwoo walks to stand by his side, his book of poems in hand, “Jeonghan Hyung told me you were here,” Wonwoo smiles Mingyu swallows and averts his gaze, “y-yeah,” Why is his heart beating so fast?!

~ one week later ~ Mingyu zones out a bit as Hyerin performs the routine exercises. “If you do this regularly, you’ll be up and running in no time,” Hyerin says, pulling Mingyu back to consciousness. “Ah, is that so…” he mumbles

Hyerin bites his weary response, “what’s wrong?” she questions as she lifts his leg. He sighs “I should’ve cooperated earlier. I would’ve been out of here sooner then,” Mingyu voices his regret. Hyerin smiles, “you’re hardly the first patient who refused to cooperate, Mingyu,”

“still, I…” He swallows his words. Hyerin hums, “I get it,” she says, “but don’t worry. Now that you’re on track, you can do it, hm?” Her words reassure Mingyu and he smiles “We’ll take it step by step. First, there should be movement in your toes,” he tugs at his big toe

“And then you’ll be able to move your ankles, and eventually, your entire leg,” she says. Mingyu gulps. “Let’s start from the toe, eh?” Mingyu asks and Hyerin laughs. “That’s the plan,” she says, pushing Mingyu’s toes backwards. Mingyu feels nothing

But he won’t let that pull him down. He’s going to feel, eventually. He’ll get is legs back too He just needs to hold on The door opens and Wonwoo emerges with the carton of orange juice Mingyu had asked to pick up from his room. “You’re almost out. I’ll get you another tmr”

Mingyu grins as Wonwoo hands him the carton along with a glass. “Would you like some, Hyerin-ssi?” Wonwoo asks, extending her a glass and she smiles, shaking her head, “I’m good, Wonwoo-yah, thanks,” Wonwoo-yah When did they get so familiar? Mingyu silently drinks his juice

Speaking of which, what does Mingyu call Wonwoo? Hm… “Alright, you’re done for the day, Mingyu,” Hyerin says, and Mingyu smiles, “I see,” Mingyu smiles at the fact that Wonwoo automatically shuffles into the space beside Mingyu, ready to help him up.

Wonwoo doesnt pick him ik anymore after Mingyu cited how childish that makes him feel. Wonwoo took it in good sport and didn’t bring it up again. But he aids him every single time he needs to get in and out of the wheelchair by simply lending a hand

“Let me,” Hyerin interrupts and Mingyu’s smile drops. “Mingyu shouldn’t rely on your sturdy shoulders, Wonwoo-yah,” Hyerin pats Wonwoo’s arms and the latter laughs. Wonwoo steps away and Hyerin comes in his place, “Mingyu should learn to put weight on his feet. C’mon, Mingyu,”

Mingyu can only take a smile. He really wanted to lean onto Wonwoo. Another reason not to come to therapy Hmph. — As Wonwoo pushes Mingyu through the hallway, Mingyu sits silently, pondering. “You and Doc seem close,” Mingyu finds himself saying.

Wonwoo hums, “she’s nice and fun,” Mingyu exhales. “Would you be interested in her? Romantically?” Mingyu wants to slap his lips for having no control whatsoever Wonwoo chuckles, “you’re forgetting I’m gay, Mingyu-yah,” Oh. Oh right. Mingyu tries not to smile

Ok so there’s no chance of anything happening between them Okay Anyway. Mingyu flicks his wrist to see the time— only to realise he doesn’t have a watch. He sighs. “Won, what’s the time?” He asks. Wonwoo glances at his watch, “3 o clock,”

Okay he has an hour before meeting Mirae and Chan for board games in the leisure room. “Are you dating anyone?” Damn it Mingyu’s mouth! Wonwoo chuckles, “if I were, do you think I’d be here on a Sunday afternoon?” He’s got a point “Oh. So you’re a romantic lunch kinda guy”

Wonwoo hums, “I’m the stay at home and cuddle kinda guy,” Mingyu purses his lips. Cute. “Big spoon or small spoon?” Mingyu’s mouth just won’t stop with the invasive questions. “Small,” Wonwoo replies and Mingyu huffs, “with those shoulders? Don’t lie to me,”

Wonwoo laughs. “Hey, it’s nice to be held,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu shrugs, “you do you. I’m a big spoon by the way,” “And why are you telling me this?” Wonwoo asks, a hint of playfulness in his tone. Mingyu gulps. Yeah, why IS he telling him this? “Uh, general knowledge?”

Wonwoo laughs Mingyu likes that hr can make Wonwoo laugh He likes the sound of his laughter “So, what’s your type?” Mingyu asks He just has no filter today “I didn’t realise this was a dating show, Mingyu-ssi,” Wonwoo giggles

Mingyu shrugs, “pretend it is,” Mingyu clears his throat, gruffing his voice, “so uh, what do you do in your off days?” Wonwoo laughs. “Are you supposed to be a fireman?” “I was going for a lifeguard but fireman works,” Wonwoo laughs. He clears his throat

“Well, Mr. Lifeguard, my type is someone taller than me,” Wonwoo replies. Mingyu frowns, “is that it?” Wonwoo shrugs, “I’m pretty tall. So I’d like my partner to be tall too,” A valid wish. Wait Mingyu’s taller than Wonwoo Mingyu and Wonwoo enter Mingyu’s room.

“So, do you consider yourself a good kisser?” Mingyu asks Wonwoo and he come to an abrupt halt, “your questions are getting more ridiculous, Mingyu-ssi,” he says but doesn’t sound offended in the least “Can’t blame a guy for being curious,” Mingyu shrugs

“Be curious about someone else,” Wonwoo giggles as he helps Mingyu onto his bed. “I can’t be curious about Mirae or Chan. Their age doesn’t suit my question,” “And mine does?” “Yes. And you seem like a good kisser,” Mingyu’s eyes glance at Wonwoo’s lips

Mingyu darts his eyes back up, hoping Wonwoo didn’t notice Wonwoo cocks a brow, “what makes you think that?” Mingyu gulps, “just a feeling,” Wonwoo bites his lip and Mingyu tries his best not to look at it. Wonwoo inhales, “be curious about yourself too,”

Mingyu smirks, “I don’t have to. I know I’m a great kisser,” Wonwoo giggles at his smugness, “I assume you’ve been told that,” Mingyu shrugs confidently, “what can I say,” Wonwoo scoffs.

“Well, too bad we can’t put our skills to the test, eh?” Wonwoo stands, winking. Mingyu’s brain short circuits. “Huh?” “Anyway, I should get going—“ Wonwoo grabs his belongings, “see ya,” he winks once more before leaving Mingyu gasps. His face is as warm as the sun

— two weeks later — “Hyung, have you ever asked someone out?” Chan asks as he and Mingyu head to Mirae’s room. Mingyu shrugs, “wouldn’t know even if I did,” he says Chan sighs, “you’re right” Mingyu glances at Chan, “do you have a crush on someone?” he asks and Chan blushes

Mingyu smirks. He loves it when he’s right. “Who is it?!” Mingyu asks and Chan shushes him, “you’re loud!” Mingyu chuckles and retreats, looking around. “Is she a nurse?” Mingyu asks, and Chan’s blush intensifies. Mingyu giggles, “Channie! You’re so cute!”

Chan clears his throat, “I shouldn’t have told you,” he says and Mingyu laughs, “oh c’mon, tell me about her. Maybe I can help!” Chan sighs. “I don’t know if I’ll ask her out, Hyung,” Chan confesses. Mingyu frowns, “what? Why not?!” Chan shrugs

“My mom used to tell me that one should never fall in love with the people at the hospital. They’re only taking care of you out of obligation and that often times it can feel like love when it’s not,” Mingyu comes to a halt. And a realisation perhaps. He looks up at Chan

“How is that relevant?” Mingyu pushes other thoughts aside and decides to focus on Chan. Chan sighs, “she’s my nurse and I thought we had a spark but I don’t know. She takes care of me and helps me out and like mom said, it’s probably out of obligation and +

+ I’m just getting ahead of myself” Mingyu listens intently. It’s a valid thought to have. One can rarely judge what the other person is thinking. “You know what?” Mingyu speaks and Chan turns to him, “what?”

“You’re getting discharged soon. That means she won’t be under obligation anymore. You can come visit me and under the guise of that, you can, yknow, ‘court’ her,” Chan’s eyes widen “And if she reciprocates then you’ll know it’s cuz she likes you,” Mingyu declares

“Genius!!” Chan stomps his feet excitedly and Mingyu giggles. Mood lifted, the two head down to Mirae’s room. But as they’re about to open the door, it opens on its own. A man pops out, hurrying away Chan and Mingyu exchange a look

The man, already frazzled, when matches their gaze, startles and rushes away Mingyu watches him as he wadddles away. He’s old after all. Chan enters the room to see Mirae. Mingyu shrugs and wheels in too, “Ajhumma, who was that?”

The man looks like a patient here. Mirae never has visitors. And all and any people that want to meet her because of her identity only do so outside the room. Like in the park. So this is an odd occurrence “No one,” Mirae says, voice stern. She avoids meeting Mingyu’s gaze

Mingyu and Chan exchange a glance. “A fan?” Mingyu probes and Mirae sighs, “a suitor,” she says and Mingyu’s eyes widen, “what?!” Chan frowns, “what’s a suitor?” “He wants to date her,” Mingyu explains and Chan gasps, “Ajhumma wants to date?!”

Mirae clicks her tongue, “I don’t want to date anyone. I’m not interested,” she says Chan frowns, “then why did you let him in your room? You never let anyone in,” Mingyu nods. A good observation! “Because you have a soft spot for him,” Mingyu teases and Mirae swallows

Ahhh how exciting! “So, did he ask you out—“ “I do not wish to talk on this topic anymore,” Mirae interrupts, “I do not have a soft spot for him and do not wish to pursue a romantic relationship with him, or anyone, ever,” Mingyu’s taken aback by her words

“Why not?” Mingyu asks, curious as to why Mirae won’t give it a go. “I don’t believe in falling in love twice,” she says. And that effectively shuts Mingyu and Chan up. As Mirae refuses to meet their eyes, it gets Mingyu thinking.

He flicks his wrist to check time, cursing when he realises he isn’t wearing a watch. Damn habit. He checks the time on the clock, and turns to Mirae who doesn’t seem too big on accompanying Chan and Mingyu to the park today.

“I uh,” Mingyu clears his throat, “Wonwoo’s gonna come by soon. I should go,” Chan only nods, picking up on the atmosphere. Mirae scoffs though, making Mingyu turn back to see her with confused eyes, “what?” Mirae remains silent Mingyu sighs He leaves without another word

— “Mingyu,” Wonwoo calls and Mingyu snaps back to reality, flicking his gaze up to look at Wonwoo from where he has planted his face on the table , “yeah?” Wonwoo shuts the book he was reading and places it on the table, “something on your mind?”

Mingyu nods, deciding to speak his thoughts for once, “Someone expressed romantic interest in Mirae but she shot him down,” Wonwoo’s eyes widen. But he swallows and nods, “I see. And that bothers you because?” Mingyu shrugs, “ I just wish I knew more about her”

Wonwoo hums, putting his face down on the library table, facing Mingyu, “and?” “And that she didn’t want to fall in love another time,” Wonwoo blinks at him, “is that what’s bothering you?”

Mingyu exhales, “Yeah. It makes me wonder what it must’ve been like the first time for her to still be fearful of falling in love,” Wonwoo remains silent. “I don’t think shes fearful,” Wonwoo says softly, “I think she’s still in love,” Mingyu gasps softly, “with whom?”

Mingyu has never seen any of her acquaintances. She doesn’t have any visitors. He’s never seen her family or friends. Mirae is all alone. Then who does she … Wonwoo gulps, “her dead husband,” he replies. Mingyu’s eyes enlarge.

“What?” Wonwoo’s eyes soften and he exhales. “Mirae-ssi comes from a rich family. But she chose to marry a commoner and her family cut ties with her over that. That commoner was her husband. He died a decade ago,” Wonwoo says A decade?? “She’s been alone ever since?”

Mingyu’s heart beat picks up Alone for a decade? With no friends, family and partner? Mingyu’s fingers go numb Alone… for ten whole years… And she still… she’s still holding onto those feelings

“How can someone love someone so deeply?” Mingyu whispers, voice strained with emotion Wonwoo licks his lips, “it happens every now and then,” Mingyu gulps. He looks up at Wonwoo, “how do you know all of this?” “I looked her up when I first met her,” Wonwoo explains.

Mingyu nods. “So she’s still in love with him, huh?” Mingyu wonders and Wonwoo nods. Mingyu’s heart feels heavy for some reason. His eyes feel moist. He looks up at Wonwoo, “have you ever been so deeply in love, Wonwoo?”

Wonwoo gasps. He tries to peel his eyes off Mingyu but Mingyu’s intense gaze keeps him glued onto him. “Y-Yes,” Wonwoo confesses, looking Mingyu dead in the eye, “ardently, with someone,” Mingyu holds his gaze, trying to decipher the emotion behind those beautiful orbs

“Do you believe in falling in love twice?” Mingyu asks softly. Wonwoo’s eyes widen, vulnerability seeping out, “I…” his eyes shift in their sockets, and Mingyu’s growing impatient, eager for an answer. “You?” “I…” Wonwoo takes a deep breath and sits up, “I don’t … know,”

Mingyu gasps as Wonwoo leaves his line of sight, breaking the bubble of their moment Mingyu swallows and gathers his thoughts, sitting up as well. His heart feels heavy. His limbs feel numb. ‘I don’t know’ is the same as ‘I don’t’ Mingyu let’s out a shaky breath

Wonwoo opens his book once again as Mingyu stews in thought. “Ardently,” Mingyu says out loud and Wonwoo turns to him, “huh?” “I love you,” Mingyu says and Wonwoo gasps, “Most ardently. Please do me the honor of accepting my hand,” Mingyu finishes Wonwoo blinks at him

After a few moments, Wonwoo cocks a brow, “you read the book,” he states Mingyu bites his lip, “no. I uh, watched the movie. Netflix,” Wonwoo laughs. “Of course. No wonder you quoted Pride and Prejudice so perfectly,” Mingyu smiles, “Mr Darcy is kinda hot,”

Wonwoo laughs harder. “That he is. How did you like the movie?” Wonwoo asks and Mingyu grins, “it was nice. I loved the ending where he walked all the way to her house to confess to her. It was really romantic,” Mingyu’s glad he knows how to lighten the mood.

“My favourite was the hand flex scene,” Wonwoo confesses, “I wonder what it feels like to touch someone and have electricity course through your veins,” Mingyu chuckles, “I heard that was improvised,” “And I’m eternally grateful for that. What a scene,” Wonwoo says

The two laugh The two busy themselves in conversation, but a thought remains in the back of Mingyu’s head An unsaid question ‘What do you think about falling in love twice… with the same person?’

— one week later — Mingyu continues to glance at the door nervously, awaiting the arrival of a certain man And Mirae seems to pick up on it. “He’ll be here, don’t worry,” she groans, and Mingyu turns to her, clearing his throat. “What?” he feigns ignorance

Mirae rolls her eyes, “at least focus on Chan. It’s his farewell party!” And Chan laughs as Mingyu shrinks in his seat now that he’s been caught red handed. Some party. It’s just the three of them, and a few nurses. “Don’t say farewell! I’ll visit all the time!” Chan says

Mingyu scoffs, “yeah you will,” he winks at Chan, darting his eyes onto the nurse seated across him, taking to her friend. Chan’s face turns red and he clicks his tongue, “how are you any better than me? This is how you act when it comes to Wonwoo Hyung!” Chan whispers

Mingyu gasps, turning to Mirae, offended, “Ajhumma, tell him he’s being a prick!” Mingyu complains, face warm, in complete denial. Mirae side eyes Mingyu and takes a sip of her juice. Alcohol is forbidden you see. Mingyu purses his lips.

Ajhumma always gets weird when its about Wonwoo. “I’ll visit until both Ajhumma and Hyung get discharged!” Chan tells one of the nurses, prompting the mentioned persons to turn to him Mingyu smiles He’s dedicated huh

“I’m not getting discharged ever so you’ll be visiting the hospital for a long long time, Chan-ah,” Mirae says. Chan’s eyes light up momentarily before he realises what Ajhumma meant. “Do you not want to get discharged, Ajhumma?” Mingyu asks.

Mirae shrugs, “getting discharged would mean going into the real world. I have everything I need right here in this hospital. Why would I want to leave?” Mingyu frowns. “Is that allowed? To stay after treatment? This isn’t a hotel,” Chan exclaims.

One of the older nurses chimes in, “Ajhumma has an understanding with the Director of the Hospital. She’s free to stay here as long as she wants,” Mingyu and Chan frown. That’s possible?? “The Director is her fan, you see,” another nurse chimes in. Of course.

Chan and the nurses laugh about it and go back to their conversation but it bugs Mingyu a little. “Won’t your family want to see you, Ajhumma?” Mingyu asks. Mirae halts, and turns to him, “I don’t have any family,” Mingyu swallows.

“Ajhumma, are you going to stay in this hospital forever? Won’t you get lonely?” Mingyu asks. Mirae huffs, “who says I’m lonely? And yes, I intend to stay here till I die,” Mingyu gasps, a little scared, “don’t say that!” He scolds.

“What? Why not? Death is natural, it’s inevitable. Might as well stay here and die in the bed my husband died in and then join him later on,” she blabbers, unconsciously so. And it leaves Mingyu’s mouth hanging. Is that what her goal is? To die in the same bed as her husband?

Mingyu’s taken aback, his jaw on the floor. Mirae realises she’s said too much. “Ajhumma….” “What?” Mingyu gulps. “Do you….do you love him that much?” Mingyu asks, voice trembling. Mirae’s expression softens and she lowers her gaze, “I do,”

Mingyu swallows thickly “You…have you never thought about moving on?” Mingyu asks. Mirae smirks. “You don’t even remember your lover but you continue to hold onto that person’s memories,” she begins, “I was with him for 55 years. And I remember everything. How can I move on?”

Mingyu’s heart sinks Mirae licks her lips, “there are…people like me… who love so deeply that we end up hurting ourselves in the process,” Mingyu listens intently, his eyes suddenly moist “I wish I didn’t love so deeply,” she whispers, “so I wouldn’t be in so much pain,”

Mingyu doesn’t know how to comfort her. He says nothing. Nothing to spook her in her vulnerable state. “Ajhumma—“ “When you see someone like me, please don’t ask them to move on, Mingyu-yah,” she says. And Mingyu’s about to reply when the door opens

Mingyu whips his head to see Wonwoo walk in, dressed in his usual style. A suit under a trench coat. Wonwoo smiles at him, and Mingyu’s lips automatically pull into a smile as well. “Hey, sorry I’m late,” Wonwoo walks over to Mingyu, and Mingyu swallows, “hey,”

Mingyu glances at Ajhumma, who’s already turned away, face poker as it is usually Seems like she wants to pretend like it never happened Mingyu turns to Wonwoo, smiling, “come sit,” mingyu pats the space beside him, on the bed.

Wonwoo purses his lips. “Chan-ah, congrats on getting discharged,” he ruffles Chan’a hair Chan smiles, “thanks Hyung! Here, have a seat,” Chan scoots over on his bed. Wonwoo smiles and turns to Mingyu, “I uh, I have to talk to you about something,” Wonwoo leans in to whisper

“Right now?” Mingyu asks and Wonwoo nods. Mingyu turns to the rest of the party, all eyes on them. “We’ll be back,” Mingyu says politely and glances at Wonwoo, gesturing him to follow him back to his room. Wonwoo bows to them and follows Mingyu out

But as Mingyu exits the room, he turns around to glance at Mirae, who’s watching him with intense eyes. Mingyu turns around and leaves. — “So,” Mingyu lifts himself off the wheelchair and onto the bed, “what did you want to talk to me about?”

Ever since Mingyu’s started going to the gym, he’s been able to enhance his arm strength. He doesn’t have to rely on others for petty things anymore. Wonwoo bites his lip and walks over to him. He stands mere feet away from Mingyu and pulls out a small box from his coat

“Happy birthday,” Wonwoo says softly, extending his hand outward. Mingyu gasps softly, looking up at Wonwoo, “you knew?” Wonwoo nods, “I did,” he smiles, “and this is my gift to you,” In disbelief, Mingyu hesitantly takes the box from Wonwoo’s hand

Mingyu hasn’t told anyone his birthday How did Wonwoo… Slowly, he unwraps the carefully wrapped box Wonwoo watches eagerly, tapping his foot on the ground nervously. Mingyu frowns as the insignia on the box underneath emerges His eyes widen as he opens the box A watch

With shaky hands, Mingyu carefully takes the watch. It feels heavy. Mingyu’s heart is beating dangerously. “I noticed that these days you keep flicking your wrist as if to check the time and…you…you must’ve had a habit of wearing watches so,” Wonwoo averts his gaze

Mingyu’s still processing this gesture “Is it not to your liking?” Wonwoo asks “No that’s not it!” Mingyu’s quick to correct, eyes misty. Wonwoo relaxes. “I just—“ But before he can continue, Mingyu wraps his arms around his waist, pulling him in for a hug.

What Mingyu’s feeling cannot be described with words Nor can it be justified in action but a hug is the best he can do to tell Wonwoo just how much this gift means to him, how happy it makes him feel that someone’s been watching him, observing him, thinking of him…

Mingyu tightens his hold as arms wrap around his head, patting him softly. “I take it you liked the gift,” Wonwoo says and Mingyu nods, burying his nose in the fabric of Wonwoo’s suit. “I loved it,” Mingyu pulls away and looks up, propping his chin on Wonwoo’s stomach

Wonwoo smiles, looking down at Mingyu’s face with fond eyes. Wonwoo raises his hand and places his palm on Mingyu’s face, sliding his thumb across his cheek, “why are you crying?” Wonwoo whispers “Am I?” Mingyu gulps, “just…overwhelmed,” With so many things

Wonwoo wipes away a stray tear, but his warm hands remain on Mingyu’s face, holding him with such care that it melts Mingyu’s heart. Eyes locked, Mingyu unconsciously tightens his hold around Wonwoo, making the other gasp as he sets his knee on the bed to steady himself

He stumbles, leaning closer to Mingyu unintentionally. God Wonwoo’s so beautiful. He’s so handsome. He’s so… He’s so close… Wonwoo doesn’t seem to be pulling away, and it gives Mingyu false hope. With his heart pulsating loudly, he speaks up, “Won—“

But the door slides open to reveal Jeonghan and Wonwoo pulls away from Mingyu, stepping back. Jeonghan seems surprised, but he doesn’t say anything, eyes shifting between Mingyu and Wonwoo “Hyung, you—“ Wonwoo begins “What happened to Chan’s farewell?” Jeonghan asks

Mingyu swallows, feeling awkward, “Oh uh, Wonwoo wanted to give me a gift. So he pulled me out,” Mingyu says, showing Jeonghan the watch. Jeonghan doesn’t seem impressed in the least. “Wonwoo-yah, can I talk to you outside for a minute?” Jeonghan calls. Wonwoo nods, “yeah,”

As Wonwoo’s walking away, Mingyu grabs his hand, “thank you,” he says. Wonwoo smiles. Mingyu let’s go of his hand and Wonwoo follows Jeonghan out the door. Mingyu uses the opportunity to put the watch on his wrist. Wonwoo sure does know what Mingyu likes. Hehe

— “Wah! That’s so cool!” Chan exclaims, grabbing Mingyu’s wrist to examine the watch wrapped around it Mingyu smirks proudly, “right?” “Quite a handsome Watch indeed,” Mirae comments and Mingyu smiles cheekily Yeah it is Wonwoo chose it after all

“Have you always had this Watch or did someone gift it to you?” a nurse asks, the girl who Mingyu determined is the one Chan likes. “Ah, someone gave it to me,” Mingyu says, smiling from ear to ear. Chan watches him “Ah, he’s blushing. Wonwoo Hyung must’ve given it to him”

The nurses burst into laughter as Mingyu huffs, “yah, what is that supposed to mean?” Chan shrugs and Mirae smirks, enjoying the way Mingyu is being teased “Ah, Wonwoo-ssi is quite popular among the young nurses,” the girl that Chan likes speaks up. What was her name? Yunseo?

“Is he?” Mingyu mumbles. Yeah he knows Wonwoo’s popular Why wouldn’t he be? He’s handsome and charming. And not to forget, super polite and gentlemanly. “A nurse from the physiotherapy section even confessed to him,” another Nurse speaks up and Mingyu gasps, “what?!”

Mingyu knew that nurse liked him. But he didn’t think she would confess to him. Yunseo giggles, “Ah, Wonwoo-ssi turned her down. He said he had a lover already,” “Oh” Mingyu let’s out, relaxing but also tensing. Lover, huh Did he lie so as to not break her heart?

“But does Wonwoo-ssi really have a lover?” A nurse chimes in and Yuna smiles, “whether he does or not, I think he doesn’t want any companionship right now. We should respect that,” Oh. Mingyu gets it now why Chan likes her.

“And speak of the devil—“ Yuna sing-songs as the door behind them opens to reveal Wonwoo. Mingyu’s lips pull into a huge smile on their own accord when his eyes land on Wonwoo. “Hey, come, sit,” Mingyu pats the space beside him. Wonwoo swallows and smiles softly.

However, he simply goes around the table and takes a seat by one of the nurses. The move confuses not just Mingyu but also the others. But they get over it sooner than Mingyu and hand Wonwoo a glass of juice and a packet of chips.

Mingyu just stares at Wonwoo who refuses to meet his eyes. A bitter taste settles on his tongue and Mingyu lowers his gaze, staring at the orange juice in his glass It feels like he’s gone back to square one with Wonwoo.

— one week later — “Does it hurt?” Hyerin asks, and Mingyu takes deep breaths, “a little,” he says as she pushes the sole of his foot. Hyerin smiles, “you’re making fast recovery, Mingyu-yah,” Hyerin stops apppying pressure and Mingyu smirks

His instinct is to whip his head to the side and look at Wonwoo. But it seems like Wonwoo’s barely even paying attention to him. He’s not even looking at them, or at Mingyu. Mingyu’s smile drops and he turns to Hyerin, “thanks, Doc,” This…Mingyu doesn’t like this

Hyerin seems to pick up on whatever problem they’re having. “Wonwoo-ssi,” she calls, but Mingyu can’t bring himself to look at Wonwoo. Wonwoo hums, looking up from his book, “yes?” Hyerin swallows. She’s lost for words too, just like Mingyu. “You can take Mingyu back now”

“Of course,” Wonwoo smiles at Hyerin as he stands up. He walks over to Mingyu to help him out but Mingyu quickly lifts himself off the bed and settles on the wheelchair, on his own. Wonwoo pauses for a moment but doesn’t say anything. “See you, Hyerin-ssi,” Wonwoo says

Wonwoo wheels Mingyu out of there The two travel down the hallway in silence. Uncomfortable silence. Insufferable silence. In the last week, since the day of his birthday, Mingyu and Wonwoo spend hours together in silence. Neither utter a word.

The few attempts made my Mingyu to initiate conversation and dispel the awkwardness have been awarded with single syllable replies. There’s an unseen barrier between them, stronger than the first time they met. They’re strangers, but worse. Again.

Barring the daily poems, they don’t talk, or laugh, or even look at each other. Mingyu’s done making an effort to close the distance. But he’s not done being upset about it. As they go into Mingyu’s room, Mingyu tries to make one last attempt to talk to Wonwoo.

“I’m making pork for dinner,” he says as Wonwoo stops them by Mingyu’s bed. “That sounds nice,” Wonwoo says, giving Mingyu some hope, which are soon crushed, “but I have to attend a meeting with my editor. I’ll pass,” Mingyu clenches his fist and grinds his teeth.

Mingyu doesn’t try to stop him and only nods. He fears he might hurt sentiments if he opens his mouth. “See you tomorrow,” Wonwoo says, and turns to leave. “What about today’s poem?” Mingyu asks, last ditch attempt to make Wonwoo stay, to talk to him.

Wonwoo gulps audibly and walks over to Mingyu, handing him the book, “sorry, no time today,” he says and without another word, leaves. Mingyu just sits there in silence, contemplating. His grip on the book tightens.

Footsteps echo down the hall and grow louder and a tiny portion of Mingyu’s heart hopes for it to be Wonwoo But when the door opens, his eyes land on Jeonghan. And Mingyu’s rage only seems to intensify. “How was therapy?” Jeonghan asks, closing the door behind him.

Mingyu doesn’t answer “I heard you’ve been making fast recovery. Hyerin says that in a month or so, you’ll be able to walk again,” Jeonghan says Mingyu swallows, trying to contain his anger “I also heard Chan visited today. Did you meet him?” Jeonghan asks. Mingyu’s had it

“What did you say to Wonwoo?” Mingyu asks outright. Jeonghan’s eyes widen, and then his brows furrow, “what?” “What did you say to him? On my birthday! He hasn’t been acting the same ever since,” Mingyu asks, keeping it cool as much as possible

Jeonghan keeps a poker face, “why are you blaming me? Don’t you think it has something to do with his personal matters?” Mingyu swallows, “He’d tell me if something was going on!” Jeonghan cocks a brow, “really? Do you think he tells you everything?” Mingyu gasps.

Of course Wonwoo doesn’t but… but… “I know him, okay? He doesn’t talk to me, touch me or even look at me these days! He just sits there on the chair, reading his book, and never utters a word! I don’t want this Wonwoo. Whatever you did, undo it! This isn’t the Wonwoo I know!”

Jeonghan crosses his arms and scoffs, “do you, Mingyu?” Mingyu flinches, “do I what?” “Do you know him? Do you know Wonwoo? Do you know me, or Chan, or Mirae Ajhumma, or Seungcheol? Do you even know yourself?!” Jeonghan scolds, and Mingyu gasps.

Upon seeing the look in Mingyu’s face, of morbid realisation and helplessness, Jeonghan realises he’s said too much. But he doesn’t apologise “You…you don’t know anything, Mingyu-yah. I’m just trying to protect you,” Jeonghan exhales “Enough with that bullshit!” Mingyu yells

Jeonghan hitches a breath in “You all say that! But you won’t tell me anything! Wonwoo was my…he..he was my one constant! I don’t remember anything, and it’s all a mess, but he was the only person I could count onto ground me to reality, to my life! And you took that from me!”

Jeonghan swallows nervously. “You won’t tell me about my past, you won’t let strangers get close to me— do you expect me to talk to the walls? To rot in here all by myself? Am I not allowed an ounce of comfort and joy after everything I’ve been through?! +

was in a coma for fucks sake! For 18 months! I lost 18 months of my life because of that accident! Everything has changed and I’m struggling to find peace! I’m struggling to let go, to move on! +

And you people keep denying me simple joys of life under the guise of wanting to protect me! Don’t you see, Hyung? In this process, you’re hurting me even more!” a tear trickles down his eye. And another, and another, till Mingyu’s cheeks are smeared with tears

Mingyu sobs as Jeonghan absorbs his words. After momentary silence, Jeonghan speaks up, “Mingyu-yah,” he calls, walking over to him and patting his head, “hey,” “What is it?” Mingyu feels like a child, crying like this. He wipes his tears.

He doesn’t like this Not one bit He can’t walk, he has to rely on others, even to pee! He doesn’t have a phone, his closest friends won’t tell him anything, and the one person who seemed to care about Mingyu is not acting worse than a stranger

Now*

“I…” Jeonghan begins, “I … will not apologise, Mingyu-yah,” “You—“ “Do you even realise you get seizures in the night?” Mingyu’s eyes widen, “huh?” Mingyu knows he had bouts of fits but… “You don’t, do you?” Jeonghan asks and Mingyu shakes his head.

Jeonghan exhales. “Mingyu-yah, almost everyday you get seizures in your sleep. Because you brain is trying to recollect lost memories at once,” Mingyu swallows. He hadn’t even realised. “So imagine what could happen if you forcibly tried to remember?” Jeonghan says softly

Mingyu falls silent. He doesn’t know the consequences of repeated seizures but he knows they can’t be good. “Mingyu-yah,” Neonghan calls and Mingyu looks up at his Hyung, “Seungcheol and your parents are really worried, okay? We don’t want you to get hurt again,”

Mingyu shrinks, lowering his gaze. It does scare him now. “However, I shouldn’t have meddled in your relationship with Wonwoo,” Jeonghan says, “I don’t think he has triggered anything for you. And I think he’s good for you. I’m sorry I…I overstepped the boundaries,”

Mingyu purses his lips. He hugs Jeonghan, as an apology for his outburst earlier and as acceptance of his apology. Jeonghan exhales and hugs Mingyu back.

“Does this mean things can go back to being normal between him and I now?” Mingyu asks. Jeonghan exhales. “Only if he wants it to,” Mingyu purses his lips. Does Wonwoo want to?

— two weeks later — Mingyu…knows this is a dream No…a memory This is… a memory But it’s different from all the times he’s dreamt of his memories Because it’s no longer a blur of a person, it’s no longer a distorted voice… It’s.. it’s so clearly Wonwoo this time

And Wonwoo’s… Wonwoo’s crying The soothing voice Mingyu’s used to, it’s shaky, it’s breaking, it’s crying And there’s nothing Mingyu can do other than just listen to it cry and…and… “I’m sorry,” Wonwoo says, “I’m so sorry, that things happened the way they did,”

“I’m sorry that I hurt you, Mingyu-yah. I miss you ….” A sob, “everyday. And I…I want you to know that I…” Don’t cry Wonwoo don’t cry Mingyu can’t comfort him He can’t reassure him he’s okay That… he’s fine and…

“I love you, with all my heart. And it has been my biggest regret to not have been able to say it to you one last time,” Mingyu listens on with a heavy heart He listens to Wonwoo crying To him… confessing

“I love you. I love you. I’ve loved you… and I wish I could hear you say it back to me one last time. Our separation pains me, because it feels…permanent. I wish things had turned out differently, for the better. I wish…I wish we had more time, my love,” Ann’s Mingyu awakes

And*

He sits up, swearing profusely, taking deep breaths to calm down his racing heart “Did you have a nightmare?” a voice asks that makes Mingyu flinch He turns to the owner of the voice. Seungcheol, who smiles softly when Mingyu relaxes upon seeing him

Without another word, Mingyu throws himself on his friend, hugging him tightly Seungcheol hugs back, no questions asked. Not only does the bug comfort Mingyu, it also helps him hide his tears from his friend He sniffles softly and wipes his tears before pulling away

“How long…” Mingyu averts his gaze, “how long have you been here?” Seungcheol smiles, “10 minutes. I was about to leave but I saw you having a nightmare so..” Mingyu swallows. “Not really a nightmare. More of a…” Wonwoo He wants to see Wonwoo He needs to see him

“It’s nothing,” Mingyu shakes his head, forcing a smile. Seungcheol hums, choosing not to question Mingyu about it. “I uh, I actually came to give you this,” Seungcheol hands Mingyu a phone Mingyu’s eyes widen. “It took me a while to arrange this but..”

Mingyu carefully takes the gadget It’s not his actual phone, Mingyu knows. “I transferred photos and contacts from your actual phone to here. Your phone as damaged in the crash. And I had…withhold some photos, so as to…” Mingyu nods, smiling, “protect me, yeah,”

Seungcheol purses his lips, “Ming—“ “No I…” Mingyu smiles, “I get it, Hyung,” Seungcheol exhales as Mingyu opens the gallery. It has atleast a thousand pictures All carefully handpicked by Seungcheol Hyung “Must’ve been a lot of work” Mingyu says

Seungcheol smirks, “you take way too many photos, you little shit,” And Mingyu giggles There are photos of his parents Of him and Seungcheol Of.. Mingyu frowns, “Shua Hyung…” he mumbles. Seungcheol smiles, “I was hoping you’d remember him,”

Mingyu smiles from ear to ear, “how.. how is he?” Seungcheol chuckles, “Great. Thank him when you meet him next time. He’s the one handling your restaurant,” Mingyu laughs softly He’s glad to know the restaurant is in good hands Seungkwan sends him updates from time to time

And Mingyu can’t wait to get back into the hustle “I will,” Mingyu giggles, swiping right to see a picture of him, Seungcheol and Jeonghan His smile softens They’re clearly drunk, and laughing It’s a blurry selfie Mingyu gulps “You..two should date again,” he says

Seungcheol’s eyes widen, “you knew?” Mingyu nods, “yeah,” The older licks his lips and lowers his gaze, “I…want to. But Jeonghan doesn’t. Can’t really force him, can I?” Mingyu swallows, “he still loves you,” Seungcheol smiles, “I know. And yet, he resists,”

Mingyu falls silent Well, in that case, there is nothing he can do It all boils down to Jeonghan Hyung “Anyway,” Seungcheol stands up, “I gotta run,” Mingyu nods. But as Seungcheol’s about to turn and leave, he stops. “Who were you dreaming about, Mingyu-yah?”

Mingyu tenses and he averts his gaze. “I don’t know. Just a silhouette of a person as always,” he lies Seungcheol swallows audibly, “you’ll find out soon,”’ Mingyu nods, smiling, “hoping,” Seungcheol exhales. He’s about to leave again but this time, Mingyu stops him

“Why…why did you ask?” Mingyu asks Seungcheol only hums “Because you were murmuring a phrase repeatedly,” Mingyu blinks, huh? Seungcheol smiles. “I love you too. You kept repeating it,” Mingyu gulps. He…he needs to see Wonwoo.

— Though Mingyu was determined to talk to Wonwoo, there’s nothing he can do on his own now can he? He’s bound to a wheelchair with no way to contact Wonwoo. He’s just gonna have to wait for Wonwoo to show up. As he does. Everyday.

There hasn’t been any progress since 3 weeks ago. They’re in the same level. They just sit uncomfortably in each other’s company. They don’t talk. They don’t look at each other Mingyu thought he would get used to it but it’s been a far more challenging than he could imagine

Wonwoo’s determined to maintain that distance between them Mingyu doesn’t know how to close it But that dream… Mingyu’s cheeks warm at the remembrance of that dream Wonwoo….he said he loved Mingyu, didn’t he? It’s probably a memory from when Mingyu was in a coma

Mingyu can’t stop thinking about that dream, about those words, about… Wonwoo He doesn’t know what to make of it He doesn’t even know if it’s real What if it was just a … dream A scenario spun up by his Wonwoo-deprived brain But what if… what if it wasn’t?

What if he and Wonwoo… what if they…. Mingyu’s a little scared to jump to the assumption that he and Wonwoo were lov— Mingyu’s yanked back to reality by a sharp gasp. “What, what? Is something wrong?” Mingyu asks Hyerin. He’d almost forgotten he was in a session

Hyerin looks up at him with wide eyes. “Mingyu—“ Mingyu’s eyes travel down to the foot she’s holding. He gasps. He slowly looks up at Hyerin and their eyes lock in a silent understanding. Without a warning, Hyerin leaps onto him, hugging him

Mingyu catches her, hugging her tightly. Unknowingly, his eyes brim with tears and his heart begins to race at the possibility that— The door opens and the two turn their heads to see Wonwoo standing in the doorway, his poker face dusted with surprise

Hyerin pulls away from Mingyu but Mingyu maintains eye contact with Wonwoo “Wonwoo-ssi—“ Hyerin is about to explain this situation but Mingyu interrupts her “Wonwoo, take me back to my room, please,” he says, lifting himself up and plopping into his wheelchair

Wonwoo doesn’t say anything for a few moments, but morphs his face to return to his poker facade “Okay,” Hyerin looks upon with confusion as without a word, Wonwoo grabs the handles and takes Mingyu away “I have your number. I’ll text you,” Mingyu tells her

Hyerin can only nod as Mingyu leaves with Wonwoo. — The walk back to Mingyu’s room is silent. Mingyu doesn’t even try sparking a conversation. He has bigger plans. When they walk into the room, Mingyu instructs Wonwoo to lock the door. “Why?” Wonwoo asks

“So we can talk,” Mingyu says, “and you don’t run away,” Wonwoo’s eyes widen slightly. But he purses his lips. Wonwoo’s an adult who knows better than running from his problems. It’s easy. To run away from problems, and a guy bound to a wheelchair. But Wonwoo stays

And it makes Mingyu hopeful because maybe Wonwoo wants to repair their relationship too. Mingyu positions himself on his bed as Wonwoo walks over to him, fists clenched. “What is it?” Wonwoo asks. Mingyu purses his lips. “Can you look at me?” He asks softly.

Wonwoo swallows audibly and raises his eyes, only slightly, to match Mingyu’s gaze. It sends jolts of electricity through Mingyu’s veins. It makes him smile because it feels like he hasn’t seen Wonwoo’s eyes in the longest while Were they always hazel?

They look Hazel in the sunlight Pretty “Now, was that so hard?” Mingyu says, taking Wonwoo’s hands in his. But Wonwoo takes a step back, retracting his hands. Mingyu’s not going to have this. He grabs onto Wonwoo’s hands and doesn’t let go

“Ming—“ “I spoke to Jeonghan Hyung. You can stop now,” Mingyu says Wonwoo swallows, trying to wriggle out of Mingyu’s hold, “Jeonghan Hyung didn’t order me, Mingyu. What I’m doing, I’m doing on my own,” Mingyu gulps, “why now? What did Jeonghan Hyung say?” He tightens his hold

Wonwoo purses his lips, growing agitated, “Mingyu, let me go—“ “If you want to go, then go. But you owe me an explanation for why you spent 18 months by my side if were mere strangers!” Wonwoo halts suddenly, eyes wide. Mingyu inhales and exhales, their gazes locked

Wonwoo remains silent, his eyes shifty. He’s thinking. And then, he sighs. He stops resisting. “Jeonghan Hyung…” he begins. Of course Wonwoo isn’t going to reveal the ultimate secret. “He told me that I was getting too close to you and it..might trigger seizures,”

Mingyu knew it! “We’ve been close for months now. You never triggered my seizures, Won,” Mingyu’s voice softens and Wonwoo bites his lips, “But I…don’t want to hurt you again,” Mingyu’s tempted to ask him why he used the word ‘again’, how he hurt him the first time but..

“I’ll tell you what I told Jeonghan Hyung,” Mingyu says, thumbs massaging the knuckles on Wonwoo’s hands, “I told him that he shouldn’t meddle in my relationships and drive away people I care about for my sake,” Wonwoo’s lips gape. Mingyu continues, “I need you, okay?”

Wonwoo inhales sharply “I don’t know why, I don’t know how but your company has stopped me from plunging into darkness and lonesome. So please, stay, Won,” Wonwoo’s lower lip trembles and he looks away, “you’re not healing, Mingyu-yah. I want you to heal,”

Mingyu frowns, “that has nothing to do with you—“ “It does!” Wonwoo says, “what if I’m the reason you’re not healing?” “Wonwoo that’s absur—“ “No it’s not! It’s always..always been like this.. I’m always…whatever I see, whatever I touch it…” Wonwoo shuts his eyes

“Wonwoo, you motivated me to go to therapy. You motivate me to hit the gym. Because of you, I pursue my passion for cooking. Don’t you see how you’ve turned my life around? You make me want to live,” Mingyu declares Wonwoo gasps

Mingyu takes a deep breath. He doesn’t want to cry. But he’s willing to beg. “Wonwoo, please. Just…stay, okay? I need you by my side,” Mingyu pleads. Wonwoo falls silent. Mingyu can hear the cogs in his brain turning. “Won—“ “Mingyu you…you won’t heal,” he whispers

This again “I am healing! In more ways than you can imagine and—“ Wonwoo succeeds in freeing himself from Mingyu’s grasp. “Mingyu you—“ Wonwoo’s turning away “I am healing!” Mingyu yells “No you’re not!” Wonwoo’s about to leave But he trips and plummets to the ground

Confused, Wonwoo turns around to look at just exactly what he tripped on And his eyes soon land on… He gasps. His eyes land on Mingyu’s foot, his ankle outstretched at an angle, a deliberate attempt to trip Wonwoo In disbelief, Wonwoo slowly looks up at Mingyu

Mingyu swallows, eyes moist, “I told you…I’m healing,” he says, rotating his foot Wonwoo sits up and takes Mingyu’s foot in his hand, examining it, “did you just…trip me..?” he asks Mingyu smiles, “I did— ouch!” He hisses when Wonwoo pinches the skin

“Y-You can feel that?” Wonwoo asks, eyes wide and lips parted in utter shock. Mingyu swallows, “yes. I have sensation in my foot,” he says, wriggling his toes And just like Hyerin, Wonwoo, without a warning, leaps onto Mingyu, hugging him. They tumble onto the bed

Mingyu hugs him tightly, letting a secret tear trickle down his eye as Wonwoo clings to him “I told you I’m healing, idiot,” Mingyu chuckles, patting Wonwoo’s back. Wonwoo says nothing, but Mingyu can feel his heartbeat against his chest, violently fast.

Mingyu reassures him, he tries to calm him down by massaging his lower back Mingyu enjoys Wonwoo’s weight on him, his touch, his smell, his warmth. “So, will you stay?” Mingyu asks softly. Wonwoo relaxes in his arms. “I’ll stay,” And that’s all Mingyu needs

— two weeks later — “Ah, this tastes really good, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo says after taking a bite. Mingyu smiles, “does it? I made it less spicy for you,” Wonwoo nudges Mingyu, “there was no need for that,” Mingyu hums, “you’re right. Your fave looks a lot cuter when it’s red,”

Wonwoo flushes, “hey, that was one time” and Mingyu laughs, “twice actually. You thought I wouldn’t notice the second time around but I did. I saw you reaching for the yogurt,” “Hey, quit it,” Wonwoo warns, face flushed anyway. Mingyu just laughs.

“Yknow, it’s at times like this that I miss Chan the most” Mirae speaks up, attracting their attention onto her and off each other. “Huh?” Mirae shrugs, “chan and I could roll our eyes at you,” Mingyu exhales, “Ajhumma, you—“ “We’re really sorry, Ajhumma,” Wonwoo bows

Mingyu gapes at Wonwoo’s politeness and Ajhumma smirks All of a sudden, Ajhumma yelps. She turns to glare at Mingyu, who averts his gaze. She huffs. “Well the downside of you regaining your leg strength is that you keep kicking me!” she says as he kicks Mingyu in the shin

Mingyu yelps, prompting Wonwoo to bend and peer under the table, only to find Mingyu and Mirae’s legs tangled in a feet-fight Wonwoo sighs and sits up, giving Mingyu a disappointed look. Wonwoo pats Mingyu’s thigh, “you shouldn’t touch an elderly person with your feet,”

Mingyu relaxes under Wonwoo’s gaze and pulls back his leg, “Sorry, Ajhumma,” he mumbles Ajhumma watches with her jaw on the floor. “You brat! You only listen to Wonwoo?” Ajhumma scolds and Mingyu shrugs, “he says it nicely,” Mingyu brushes his shoulder against Wonwoo’s

Wonwoo smiles softly and goes back to eating. Mingyu winks at Ajhumma, who rolls her eyes at him. Suddenly, the door to the kitchen opens and two men walk in. It isnt anything out of the ordinary for their daily meals to be interrupted by others.

The kitchen is for public use after all. But these men today don’t seem to have come here for food. They’ve come here for — “It’s her! It’s the Nightingale!” The older man says, pointing at Ajhumma, like he can’t believe his eyes. Ajhumma puts her chopsticks down and smiles

“Hello,” she bows, putting on a graceful face. Wonwoo and Mingyu watch silently as the two elderly men walk towards her. “When I heard you were admitted here, I didn’t believe it,” one says, taking Ajhumm’s hand. Ajhumma smiles, softly sliding her hand free.

The gesture doesn’t faze the man. “I was a huge fan! I used to listen to your songs when I was in the army! I also liked Lee YoungTuk-nim’s lyrics! You poured your soul into singing his words!” The man blabbers However, Mirae’s expression has shifted.

There’s something painful about her gaze. Wonwoo and Mingyu glance at each other, thinking the same thing. Lee YoungTuk. Could he be Ajhumma’s late husband? Ajhumma doesn’t let the name affect her and continues to engage in small talk with her fans.

— “So that’s how they met,” Mingyu says as Wonwoo wheels him down the corridor “Ajhumma and her husband?” Wonwoo asks and Mingyu nods, “he used to write and she used to sing. Kinda magical if you think about it,” Wonwoo hums, “I guess,”

“Although, I don’t know if living in the memory of a person who’s no longer in this world magical or not,” Mingyu adds. “What do you mean?” Wonwoo asks, an unmissable tremor in his voice. Mingyu shrugs, “I just wish that Ajhumma would allow herself to move and be happy,”

“It’s not as easy as you make it out to be, Mingyu-yah,” Wonwoo says, “when you…love someone for so long and they just…vanish from your life…you can’t help but chase after their ghost in hope to get a glimpse of a life that once was,” Mingyu falls silent

Ajhumma said something similar Mingyu swallows “You said you loved someone deeply,” Mingyu begins, “may I ask what happened to them?” Mingyu knows the answer Ever since that dream, Mingyu’s known the answer But he… He can’t say anything about it

“They….vanished,” Wonwoo replies. And Mingyu wishes he could say something. But he can’t. Not now. Not yet. But…soon… He falls silent as Wonwoo wheels him ahead. After a while, Wonwoo chooses to break the awkwardness, “where are we going?”

Mingyu clears his throat, “through that door,” Without any questions, Wonwoo does as he’s told and takes Mingyu through the door ahead of them Upon opening the door, the smell of chlorine hits his nose and Wonwoo pauses

His eyes roam over the vast expanse of an indoor pool Wonwoo let’s go of Mingyu’s wheelchair and the latter wheels himself into the pool area “Hyerin and I were here today. My legs can support my weight under water. Cool,right?” Mingyu smiles, turning around to glance at Wonwoo

And Wonwoo…Wonwoo looks mortified Mingyu’s expression falls. “What’s wrong?” He asks as he pulls his shirt over his head. “You’re going to get in?” Wonwoo asks, and Mingyu nods, “yeah. I wanna show you how I walk,” he says, inching closer to the pool

Wonwoo grabs his wheelchair, startling Mingyu. He turns around again, “what’s wrong?” Wonwoo swallows. “I….it’s nothing,” he lets go of the wheelchair. Mingyu smiles. Hyerin and he tested the water this morning, literally. Mingyu was skeptical at first

But with the help of the top tier across the width of the shallow end of the pool, he was able to use the walk. It felt so good to be able to walk again He wants to share that with Wonwoo is all Mingyu wheels to the metal rods and stairs that descend into the pool

Mingyu hoists himself up and off the wheelchair, and carefully descends into the pool. His legs can’t fully support his weight yet so he used his arm strength to enter the water. “Careful!” Wonwoo yells, maintaining a safe distance Mingyu turns around, “don’t worry!”

“Are you sure this is safe?” Wonwoo asks, inching closer to the pool. Mingyu laughs softly, grabbing onto the rope, “it is. I’ve done it with Hyerin’s help!” “Mingyu-yah, Hyerin’s not around this time. I think you should come out,” Wonwoo warns

Mingyu giggles “Ah you worry too much,” Mingyu says, but he has to admit it’s a little more daunting than this morning. Probably cuz Hyerin isn’t here. But it’s nothing Mingyu can’t handle. He looks at Wonwoo, who has worry written all over his face. Cute.

“I’ll be just fine—“ but as he says that, Mingyu loses his footing and falls. For a few terrifying seconds, he doesn’t realise he’s underwater, or that he needs to go back up. All he sees is the darkness and bubbles But thanks to his hold on the rope, he pulls himself up

He resurfaces with a loud gasp, looking around as he wipes the water off his face to regain his vision “Fuck!” He curses, looking around. Looks like Wonwoo was right to be worried. Mingyu glances at where Wonwoo was standing moments ago, only to find the spot empty

As Mingyu begins to look around for Wonwoo, he screams when he feels hands on his body and a head rise up from the water “What the—“ he’s about to scream bloody murder when he realises the person next to him is Wonwoo. “Won! What the fuck!”

Wonwoo pulls out of the water and wraps his arms around Mingyu, holding on for dear life. Mingyu wraps his free hand around Wonwoo, other hand still holding on to the rope. Wonwoo’s shaking in his embrace, but clutching onto Mingyu tightly. Mingyu catches his breath.

It all happened way too fast for him to even process it. “Did you…did you jump?” Mingyu asks, but Wonwoo, fully clothed and drenched, only nods, his teeth chattering. Mingyu swallows. “Why?” Wonwoo hugs him, “you can’t die. Not again,”

— Wonwoo settles down next to Mingyu after handing him a towel, one wrapped around his own body. Neither utter a word, seated on the edge of the pool. Wonwoo keeps his knees to his chest while Mingyu’s feet float around in the water

Mingyu swallows. It was terrifying, if he’s being honest. But… Mingyu sneaks a glance at Wonwoo, “you’re scared of water, aren’t you?” Mingyu had concluded that when he saw how overly worried Wonwoo seemed as Mingyu went deeper and deeper into the pool

Wonwoo hums. “Not water as such but…as a child, I got carried away by a wave. I avoid pools or any water body ever since,” he explains “Oh….I’m sorry,” Mingyu brushes his shoulder against Wonwoo’s Wonwoo doesn’t say anything, shivering, even underneath that towel.

Mingyu gulps. He scoots closer to Wonwoo and wraps his arm around the man, pulling him close to share warmth. “You must’ve been worried. I’m sorry,” Mingyu says. Wonwoo doesn’t reply, zoning out. But he leans onto Mingyu anyway, for the warmth.

Nonetheless, Mingyu’s glad Wonwoo… Not glad but rather touched that Wonwoo… leapt into the water for him Wonwoo must be shaken. Not knowing how else to show his gratitude, Mingyu leans in and pecks of Wonwoo’s cheek. Wonwoo’s flushed and shocked face makes Mingyu smile

— two weeks later — “All you think about is work, work, work!” “And what about you? Aren’t you the same?!” “I care about my work as much as I care about you! I don’t let my work interfere with our personal relationship but you…” “Me what?!”

“You come home stressed from work! You’re ruining your health! Early onset of hypertension can have long term affects! What if you…” “What if I what, Won?” “What if you…what if you…” “Die? Just say it!” “Don’t say that! Don’t! Please…”

“I’ll be just fine. Don’t worry about—“ “Idiot! It’s my job to worry about you! You’re my….my… you can’t ruin your health like this, Mingyu-yah. Please consider stepping down as the chef. Please…”

“How could you even say that?! If I asked you to stop doing what you loved, would you?!” Only silence follows And Mingyu blinks his eyes open. He doesn’t make an attempt to sit up and continues to stare at the ceiling above

This is the first time an unpleasant memory has resurfaced Of course Mingyu knew things weren’t always great between him and his….lover But this memory somehow leaves a bitter taste in his mouth Mingyu sits up finally and drinks some water.

As he gulps down the water, the door opens and— Mingyu’s jaw drops to the floor when Joshua walks in, followed by Soonyoung, Seungkwan and Chan. “Hyung!” Mingyu almost leaps out of the bed but Joshua stops him, hugging him tightly, “it’s good to see you, Mingyu-yah,”

Mingyu feels a rush of emotions, but more importantly, tears begin to trickle down his eyes as memories of his time with Joshua resurface with great intensity When Joshua pulls back, he chuckles upon seeing tears streaming down Mingyu’s eyes

“Ah, why are you crying?” Joshua laughs as the others watch them with soft smiles on their faces Mingyu shakes his head He’s missed his Hyung so much

— “How’s the restaurant, Shua Hyung?” Mingyu asks once they’ve all settled down. Joshua smiles, “it’s going great. You don’t have to worry about it. There have been no hiccups as of now, thanks to Seungkwan helping me out,”

Mingyu smiles at Seungkwan who shyly accepts the compliment. But a grim reality remains within Mingyu’s mind that there was a point where Mingyu was against Joshua joining their business Now that Mingyu’s recollected some memories, he remembers all the times he fought with…

Mingyu sighs Lover? Wonwoo? Mingyu shakes his head. “I’m glad it’s you and Seungkwan, Hyung,” Mingyu says. Perhaps there was merit to the worries cited about Mingyu’s health dilapidating from stress

Though Joshua and Mingyu have known each other since culinary school, Mingyu didn’t want Joshua to join them because that would mean Mingyu would need to take a step back. That wasn’t acceptable and…. He has to admit those were some stressful times.

But he’s glad that things turned out this way. Perhaps, his lover’s — won’s — whatever — concerns weren’t silly after all. When passion becomes a chore, it does more harm than good Mingyu only wishes he’d realised sooner

“They still don’t give me a discount when I go there,” Soonyoung sulks and Seungkwan rolls his eyes, “because if we start giving you discount, we’ll start losing money!” Mingyu laughs, and his eyes turn to Chan sitting quietly beside Soonyoung He doesn’t seem bored though

Rather, he seems enchanted By Soonyoung Mingyu smirks, “Have you guys talked?” Mingyu asks his friends, pointing at Chan. Chan breaks out of his daze and turns to Mingyu, “ah, oh. No. I ran into them outside your room is all,”

Mingyu smiles. “This is Chan. He was admitted in the hospital because of an injury and we became friends,” Mingyu tells Joshua. Joshua smiles, “hello. Thank you for keeping our Mingyu company,” Chan bows, “the pleasure was mine!” Joshua laughs, “cute,”

“Chan is actually uh, a dancer,” Mingyu says, which catches Soonyoung’s attention, “oh right, Mingyu told me that once,” Chan tenses and nods, “yes! I am. I uh, I am a huge fan of your dance. You’re an amazing dancer, Hoshi-nim,” he blabbers and laughter erupts.

Chan is so adorable Soonyoung chuckles, “thank you, Chan-ssi. Actually, we’re looking for dancers right now, to go on tour. Would you be interested?” And Mingyu sees Chan’s soul leave his body. “Yes!” He stands up, “I will send you an addition tape. Thank you so much”

Audition**

Perplexed and amused by Chan’s reactions, everyone begins to laugh merrily. Mingyu scans his friends, and he smiles. He’s missed them…so dearly..so much… It brings tears to his eyes. Their laughter is interrupted by the door opening to reveal Mirae.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realise you had guests over,” she says and steps back, closing the door. Mingyu and Chan exchange a glance. Chan smiles, “I’ll go talk to Ajhumma,” Chan excuses himself and Mingyu gets back to chatting with his friends

— “I was surprised,” Ajhumma says when they meet later that day “Surprised? By what?” Mingyu asks. They’re seated on a park bench as the sun sets Wonwoo should be joining them soon, for dinner “Your friends. You all seemed…happy,” she says

Mingyu hums He spots Wonwoo walking towards them from the distance It gives him a sense of déjà vu Mingyu could recognise that silhouette from anywhere “No one visits me,” Mirae says and Mingyu turns to her, “I thought you didn’t want visitors,”

Mirae sighs “I don’t. I made sure no one is allowed to visit me. My siblings and I haven’t spoken to each other since my marriage with YoungTuk-ah. And my children, all they care about is money and my will,” Yikes

“So, yes, I don’t want visitors who stand to benefit from me. I wish that I had someone in my life who genuinely liked me and would visit me with no ulterior motive,” The mood turns sombre. “I like you,” Mingyu says and Mirae chuckles, “you’re not a visitor, Mingyu-yah,”

Mingyu would take Chan’s name but he knows Mirae will shoot that down as well. Mingyu watches Wonwoo walks over to them, smiling. Mingyu sighs. “I loved being a singer. But I regret that it, in one way or another, deprived me of people that I love and those that love me,”

Mingyu swallows. Work huh… “I guess, I’m also partly to blame for that. For denying myself happiness,” Mirae says, standing up as Wonwoo approaches them. Mirae clasps her hands behind her back, “we should learn to let go,” she says, eyes locked with Wonwoo who just arrived

Wonwoo holds eye contact for a moment before turning to Mingyu and smiling “I’ll see you two for dinner,” Mirae says and walks away. Once she’s gone, Wonwoo turns to Mingyu, “what were you guys talking about?” Mingyu simply smiles. “What do you want for dinner?”

— two weeks later — The clock ticks slowly as Wonwoo sits in his car in the parking lot. He can’t bring himself to peel his hands off the steering wheel. He can’t bring himself to look away from the wall in front of him He can’t look away He’s too afraid to

Wonwoo takes deep breaths, staring at the wall illuminated by his headlights Locked in his car, he hears nothing of the outside world He’s isolated He’s alone He’s — A knock startles Wonwoo and he turns to his window, seeing the watchman smiling at him

Wonwoo collects himself and lowers his window, smiling as well. “You drove here? I’ve always only seen you come in cabs,” the elderly man says. Wonwoo swallows, fingers finally letting go of the steering wheel. “Yeah. It’s been a while,” Wonwoo smiles.

The Watchman grins and nods, “have a good day!” He says and leaves. Once gone, Wonwoo’s smile drops and he takes a deep breath. He quickly steps out of his car and locks it, hurrying upstairs.

He shakes his hands as he goes up the stairs and into the building, calming his nerves Once he steps into the harsh hospital lights, he halts. He looks around the setting he’s all too familiar with and swallows. He dusts off his clothes and walks over to Mingyu’s room

“Wonwoo,” a voice calls as he’s passing by rooms, making him halt in his tracks. He turns to see the owner of the voice sitting on the bed in a room he’s passing by Mirae She’s watching him, a soft smile on her face. Wonwoo gulps, “Yes, Ajhumma?” he walks into her room

Her weak eyes look him up and down, and she cocks a brow, “dressed in all black, huh,” she says, gesturing at Wonwoo to take a seat by her bed Wonwoo gulps, “I guess,” She smiles, “grim reaper,” Wonwoo sighs into a smile, “I told you not to call me that”

Ajhumma chuckles, taking Wonwoo’s hand, “you’re right. I’m sorry. I won’t call you that again,” Wonwoo’s surprised by the genuine apology. “Not feeling well?” He asks. She sighs, “I feel dizzy. I think I’m coming down with a cold,” Wonwoo nods, “it’s been chilly lately,”

Mirae sighs. She turns to look outside the window, her hand locked with Wonwoo’s, “have you caught up with Mingyu?” “Uh, no. I just arrived,” Wonwoo replies. “Where are you coming from?” Mirae asks, voice silent Wonwoo purses his lips. Mirae knows where he’s coming from

“Mingyu’s waiting for you,” Mirae says, eyes fixated on something outside the window. Wonwoo leans in to take a look at what he’s looking at. He’s pleasantly surprised to see Mingyu in the distance, seated on his usual bench in the park. Wonwoo smiles. Mirae turns to him.

She studies his face as Wonwoo watches Mingyu stretching his upper body. Wonwoo giggles. But he stops when he feels a squeeze on his hand. He turns to Mirae. She’s smiling at him. She raises her hand and cups his cheek, “you’ve been so brave, Wonwoo-yah,”

A soft gasp escapes Wonwoo’s lips and his eyes widen. “Ajhumma—“ “I know no one’s told you that yet. But you needed to hear it,” Mirae says as Wonwoo’s lower lip quivers. He lowers his gaze, swallowing the thick knot in his throat

Mirae takes a long, deep breath. She closes her eyes and sighs. “Wonwoo-yah,” she calls softly, like a mother calling her child. Wonwoo looks up at her with misty eyes, “Yes, Ajhumma?” She smiles, “I’m glad it was you,” Wonwoo blinks, confused, “huh?”

She laughs softly. “I don’t want you to lead a life of regret, Wonwoo-yah. Don’t become like me, okay? You should chase your happiness,” Mirae says, “you should let your wounds heal. You’ve suffered enough,” she runs her fingers through his caramel hair. Wonwoo sniffles.

Ajhumma’s words Her touch… It makes Wonwoo’s heart twist painfully Words he’s longed for Comfort he’s craved Ajhumma she… “Please be honest, Wonwoo-yah,” Mirae says, “with yourself and…him,” Wonwoo gulps. “I don’t want you two to hurt anymore,”

Wonwoo let’s out a shaky breath. He nods, holding her hand tightly, kissing her knuckles, “okay,” She giggles. Wonwoo’s never seen Mirae so chirpy. “Wonwoo-yah, can you do me a favour? I’m thirsty. Fetch me a bottle of water from the vending machine please,” she smiles.

That’s Wonwoo’s cue to collect himself. He stands up and nods, “right,” He walks out to the vending machine and inserts a note. He takes deep breaths. Ajhumma really… She’s old and wise indeed. She… she’s loving too, despite the cold exterior she puts up

Wonwoo shakes his head. He grabs the water bottle and walks back to her room. But when he walks in, the bottle slips out of his hand at the sight in front of him.

— “Harabeoji, what’s the time?” Mingyu asks the man sitting on the bench beside him. The Harabeoji checks the time in his pocket watch. “3:40” he says and Mingyu smiles, “thanks for letting me know!” He should head back. Wonwoo must be arriving soon.

“Harabeoji, I’ll see you tomorrow!” Mingyu says as he slowly begins his descent down the small hillock The Harabeoji glares, “I don’t even know you!” he huffs. Mingyu laughs. ‘You do’ he thinks in his mind.

But as he’s heading down, he hears screams “The nightingale is dead! The nightingale is dead!” A man yells, a patient, elderly And while Mingyu dismisses that without a thought, it clicks to him who the nightingale is “Mirae is dead! The nightingale is dead!”

Elderly patients scattered around the park rush towards the entrance to the building, crowding it. Mingyu just sits there in his wheelchair, frozen, catatonic. Mirae is… Ajhumma is… The Harabeoji Mingyu jsut spoke to rushes past him to join the herd of patients

Mirae Mirae Ajhumma Ajhumma She… no…. The need near the entrance begins to move, coming towards the hospital exit on the other side of the park They’re flocked around something They’re… Mirae Is that Mirae? “I…I can’t see,” Mingyu’s throat runs dry

He tries to peek into the crowd, tries to catch a glimpse of..Ajhumma from above here but… “I can’t see!” He yells, growing frantic, “I want to see her!” He yells loudly, overwhelmed He turns his wheels to race down the hillock, to tear through that crowd and see Mirae

However, Mingyu doesn’t anticipate the speed with which he’s racing down as the crowd passes by He loses control and the wheelchair flips, the forces flinging him across the lawn. He lands on his face, just a few feet behind the loud crowd that wails the death of their idol

Mingyu pushes himself up with his hands, he wants to crawl, to creep his way to her one last time He wished his legs would miraculously work That he’d run to Mirae and.. “I can’t see!” He yells at the procession.

Darn his legs! Darn his life! “Ajhumma!” Mingyu yells, his voice drowning in the chants and wails. And just when he thinks all hope is lost, he feels his body being lifted. “Won—“ Mingyu’s manoeuvred onto Wonwoo’s back and the man carries towards the moving crowd

Mingyu holds on as Wonwoo jogs towards the crowd, silent. Wonwoo knows Wonwoo he… Once they reach the crowd, Mingyu begins to tear through it with his hands, pushing people out of his way It’s them he realises the situation There’s Mirae, resting peacefully in a glass case

In a glass case being carried by hospital security through the park towards the ambulance at the end For people to see her one last time Wonwoo and Mingyu finally get to the middle, to her, sleeping, finally in peace. It’s suffocating, they’re being pushed around by others

They’re going to get pushed out “Rest well, Ajhumma,” is all Mingyu can bring himself to say as he touches the glass case before the crowd overcomes them Mingyu and Wonwoo pop out of the herd and stumble onto the soft grass, Wonwoo on top of Mingyu, the two staring at the sky

For the longest while, the two say nothing For the longest while, they listen to the chaos of the crowd And when it finally dies down, when they hear the ambulance drive away, Mingyu speaks up. “She…she knew, didn’t she?” he asks, swallowing thickly

Wonwoo doesn’t reply “She knew she was…that she… today, soon…” Mingyu’s sentence breaks. Mirae knew her time was up. Wonwoo rolls off Mingyu, burying his face in the grass, silent Mingyu turns to him, “she just…we— just this morning we talked and…”

Wonwoo remains silent “And now she’s…she’s gone…” a tear trickles down Mingyu’s eye Mirae’s gone Just like that She’s just gone… forever “I didn’t even…get to say goodbye,” Mingyu chokes on his words

He turns to look at Wonwoo, who’s saying nothing Who hasn’t uttered a single word “Say something,” Mingyu whispers, “please,” After a while, Wonwoo speaks up “It’s important… to see them atleast once before…. Once before they’re gone,” he says, his voice breaking

Mingyu’s heart twists Wonwoo’s voice … It’s never been so… “Wonwoo—“ Mingyu rolls Wonwoo over to see his face and… There are tears smeared all over his face “You should get a good look at them before they’re gone, forever,” wonwoo sobs, trying to wipe away his tears

But the tears keep coming “If you don’t, you’re going to regret it your whole life,” Wonwoo cries, hiccuping hopelessly Watching him breakdown like this, Mingyu can’t help it either He pulls Wonwoo into his embrace, letting the man cry into his shoulder as much as he wants

— Mingyu gets off the call as Wonwoo steps out of the bathroom, a towel around his neck. Mingyu purses his lips, “that was Chan. He’s devastated,” Wonwoo only nods, dazed, hair wet. He settles down on the bed and leans down to grab his shoes. Mingyu takes his wrist

“You should sleep over tonight, Won,” Mingyu says, rubbing his thumb against Wonwoo’s knuckles. Wonwoo swallows, zoning out. His hollow eyes dart to their locked hands. “I can’t,” he whispers, “I should go home,” Mingyu sighs. He’s a stubborn one.

“And be sad alone? Why that when you can be here with me…” Mingyu reasons. Wonwoo shakes his head, averting his gaze, “I’m no stranger to being alone, Mingyu-Yah,” And that sentence completely breaks Mingyu’s heart. He feels partly guilty. Because he, after all…

“Then think about me,” Mingyu reasons, “I don’t want to be alone after…” he takes a deep breath, trying to hold back tears. And that seems to convince Wonwoo, who lets his eyes glaze over their laced hands. “Okay,” he answers softly, “but what if your friends come over?”

Mingyu shakes his head, “Seungcheol Hyung is on a business trip. My friends are busy with their own lives. No one’s going to come. So please just stay, okay? I-I dont want to be alone,” Wonwoo nods, “okay,” And they fall silent Mingyu’s never seen Wonwoo cry like that

Hasn’t there always been a sort of animosity between him and Mirae? Mingyu didn’t know they were close… “I want to sleep,” Wonwoo says, voice hoarse “Don’t you want anything to eat first?” Mingyu asks. Wonwoo should eat something. He must be tired. It’s been a long day

But Wonwoo’s determined. He shakes his head, “no, I want to sleep,” Mingyu doesn’t want to fight him on this anymore. So he agrees. “Okay. I’ll ask them for some extra blankets. You can take the couch,” he says Wonwoo nods, “alright,”

— It’s only 10:45 and Mingyu’s nowhere near sleeping. How can he close his eyes and just fall asleep after everything that has happened today? It’s not that easy, is it? It’s just…. Mingyu takes a deep breath and turns his head to the side

He doubts Wonwoo is asleep Mingyu swallows. He has a lot of things on his mind. Who else but Wonwoo to share them with? “Do you think she knew that she was leaving soon?” Mingyu asks, breaking the silence that lasted about 2 hours Wonwoo doesn’t reply, he doesn’t react

Mingyu’s about to give up and close his eyes when Wonwoo speaks up “I heard she requested the glass case last week, and to be carried through the park so everyone could see her one last time,” he says. Mingyu’s eyes widen. Mirae knew How can she know?

How do you know you’re going to die and live on? How can one be so brave? “Oh…” is all Mingyu can say without bursting into another bout of tears A moment of silence passes “I heard it was you that…found her..” Mingyu tries to phrase it sensibly

Wonwoo’s still turned away, his back facing Mingyu. But he nods, “yeah,” Mingyu swallows. Is that why Wonwoo’s shaken up? “I spoke to her before she…” Wonwoo’s voice trails off, “all she wanted was a bottle of water,” his voice breaks, “and I couldn’t even give her that,”

Mingyu swallows thickly “Won—“ “Before she passed on, she told me she was glad it was me. I just, I don’t understand what she meant by that,” Wonwoo whispers It saddens Mingyu that though there are so many things weighing on Wonwoo’s mind, he’s reluctant to share the burden

But perhaps, that’s how it is Not just with Wonwoo but everyone Mingyu wishes he could ease Wonwoo’s a mind a little though “I think she meant that she was glad it was you that was seeing her off into the afterlife,” Mingyu says.