“Kibum, talk to me,” Minho tried, as Kibum stared out of the hotel’s large window, the view a haze of spotted streetlamps and twisting taillights.

“There's nothing to say,” Kibum spoke slowly, his legs crossed as he sat on the single bed. Minho stood behind him, staring down at his hyung with a look of desperation; Kibum hadn’t spoken a word since he'd dismissed Jonghyun, and it seemed the elder was somewhat bitter about the affair, for reasons Minho couldn’t decipher.

"Why won't you speak to me?” Minho pushed, back against the beige walls of the simple, yet elegant, interior. It may not have been the best hotel in Seoul, but it certainly wasn't the worst they'd stumbled across.

“I've nothing to say,” Kibum repeated, voice oddly tranquil. He was an emotionless void, deflecting each thought into his eyes as he kept his gaze locked on the outside world.

“If this is about Jonghyun-“ Minho started, but was quickly cut short by Kibum whipping his head around to stare at him, eyes wild.

“Don't,” Kibum warned, lower lip trembling slightly. “Just don’t.”

Minho lowered his head as Kibum resumed to looking out of the window, guilty.

“I'll be back in a minute,” Minho muttered, “just going to get some air.”

Kibum nodded, but didn’t move, as Minho made his way towards the door, exiting quickly and squinting at the corridor's bright lights. It was just past midnight, most of the hotel’s patrons already turned in for the night, or partying out so late that they'd maybe make it back by morning. Minho took the elevator in silence, and reached the foyer without a second thought. Although it was late, a receptionist still worked by the desk, shooting Minho a smile, recognising him. He nodded back, but said nothing as he slipped out onto the street, instantly bombarded by the noise and hustle of the city.

As Minho stood, breaths condensing, he felt his phone buzz in his pocket. Frowning, he picked it up, staring at the notification in shock.

​One New Message - Jjong

Minho clicked ‘read.   Come to the bar we passed earlier on our way to the first hotel. I found Taemin. Don't bring Kibum. ​
Raising his head slowly, Minho contemplated, breathed, jammed his phone in his pocket, and walked.
•••   Jonghyun cradled the glass protectively, finishing his shot with another gulp. As he slammed the glass on the counter, the bartender gave him an uneasy stare, unsure whether to serve whatever the next request to leav