like he predicted

Minho had to stop Junmyeon from storming to the landlady after Yejin explained to them what had just transpired. He was fuming. They both were.

If they were looking for an excuse to take Baekhyun out of this rundown building - this was the perfect reason. In no way will the two oldest allow him to continue residing here after that, even if they were able to talk it out with the landlady.

Inside, Chanyeol had situated himself on the floor at the end of Baekhyun's mattress, the only corner available, really. So near, yet so far, Baekhyun thought. But Chanyeol refused any eye contact. Opting to focus on his phone instead and with a scowl on his face.

Because he was oblivious to the whole matter, all Baekhyun could do was eye Chanyeol's figure, thinking that his filthy home is the last place Chanyeol wanted to be at. He clasped his hands, tight and trembling.

If he was scared of the two oldest because of their parental roles, he was terrified of Chanyeol on a much different scale.

For the only person who loves him, refused to even meet his eyes. All because he found out the truth.

And that hurts.

But what else did he expect?

♠️

Peeking through the door as they talked outside gave Yejin a heavy sigh. Conflict was clear between the couple. Frustrating and sad.

Chanyeol was reeking in anger, clenching his fists as he tried to control his emotions. It was evident how the old landlady sparked an insurmountable rage in him.

While Baekhyun looked nothing but pitiful as he coughed, sniffed and wiped his snot on the cloth he held in his hands. He kept wearily glancing at Chanyeol, looking like he wanted to say something but is left tongue-tied.

At least this keeps her hopes up, that the two will overcome the troubles they have been facing. And soon, perhaps. Yejin smiles at how Chanyeol finally takes a chance to glance at Baekhyun, the same time the sick boy looks away.

Clearly, longing was heavily present.

“Should we leave them alone?” hushly she spoke.

Junmyeon joins her in peeking while frown lines appear, “But Chanyeol…”

“I think they need it.” Minho cuts in, reading the same air Yejin did. “We could just go back later to check. The hotel is just across the street anyway. And if you’re worried about Baekhyun, trust Chanyeol.”

With a sigh, Junmyeon gives in. Perhaps indeed they needed this.

♠♠♠

Minutes pass and… nothing. Chanyeol remains in his corner focused on his phone.

When Junmyeon came in to tell them all three of them were heading to the hotel to settle in for the night, Baekhyun panicked, completely brushing off the fact they were even staying.

Why did they have to leave him? With Chanyeol alone no less? He was terrified, not knowing what to expect over the next few hours until who knows when one of the three comes back.

So Baekhyun opted in lying back down, still sick and easily tired. His nerves were getting the best of him and the thick tension in the air was taking a toll on his body.

Under the scarce warmth of his thin tattered blanket, Baekhyun huddled trying to muffle his coughs in case it bothered the other. Insanely conscious. Highly insecure.

Maybe… he should at least be thankful Chanyeol has not left yet. Really, he expected him to not return.

Soon enough, sleep caught on Baekhyun. At least in dream land he can pretend all was fine.

Please log in to read the full chapter