Haneul’s POV

I walked out of the toilet and looked around for Junhyung. I saw a group of guys surrounding the corner and I knew instantly the victim of bully is none other than Yong Junhyung.

“OUI!” I shouted at the group. They were trying to take his stuff.

“What is it, ?” A tall guy said.

I threw a stone into his face as I walked closer to them.

He glared at me and clenched the stone tight in his hand.

“Return the wallet to him.” I said.

Junhyung was on the ground, his shirt torn a little at the top. He seemed a little shaken up. I guess it has been quite awhile since he came back to school, so having to experience this again, it must have shocked him quite a bit.

He has been absent from school for almost two months because of Beast’s comeback and promotions. Although I still saw him occasionally at night in the book store, he didn’t talk as much as usual. Usually when he came, he just said hi and went to sleep. Not that I mind, but it was just a little weird.

“Who are you to even into this?” He closed in onto me.

“Any normal human being would stand up to this crap.” I hissed.

“Really?” He laughed.

“He’s earning so much, would it hurt for us to take just a little? He has to pay back to the society you know.” He continued.

“He earned the money on his own. Yes, he has to pay back to the society, but not to people like you. You’re taking away his hard earned money and you talk as if you did nothing wrong? Seriously, I pity your parents.” I smiled.

“DON’T TALK ABOUT MY PARENTS!” He shouted into my face, saliva spitting all over me. How gross.

“Just take the money and go.” Junhyung said, trying to stand up.

He got shoved hard against the wall by one of the guys.

“I’m talking to you nicely, but you refuse to listen. Don’t regret it.” I smacked the guy nearest to me with my bag.

People crowded around us, all watching but none helping. How helpful.

“You want to declare war with us huh? Little girl?” He smirked, grabbing my cheeks.

“I’m not a little girl.” I smiled as I kicked him in his groin.

“DAMN YOU!!” He shouted as he grabbed me by my hair and pushed me aside.

I almost fell off the stairs but got caught by someone. I turned around and saw Junhyung smiling at me.

“You okay?” He asked.

I nodded slightly. But before I could warn him about the person behind, he was kicked in his back and he rolled down the stairs. I tried to hold him but I missed his hand by a bit.

“YAH!! JUNHYUNG AH!!” I shouted.

The guys got scared when they saw Junhyung not moving. They ran off, but before that, they still took his money. How despicable, these people. The crowd stared on, some taking out their phone to take photos.

“Don’t any of you have a heart!?” I shouted as I threw stuff at them.

They got frightened and moved away, leaving Junhyung and me behind.

“Yah! Yong Junhyung!” I shook him a little.

He groaned and opened his eyes, smiling at me. I sighed in relieve. I thought he passed out or something.

“Sorry I got you into trouble.” He mumbled.

“Crazy or what? Can you sit up?” I asked, helping him up.

He forced himself up, but I could tell it was hurting.

“Where does it hurt?” I asked.

“Are you worried about me?” He chuckled.

“How come you’re still asking all these now!?” I slapped his thigh.

“You’re worried. I guess it’s worth the fall.” He smiled.

I pushed him back and he groaned a little when his back hit the wall.

I got up and went to get his stuff and mine. I threw his bag at him.

“How can you get yourself robbed in daylight like this?” I said, looking at his empty wallet.

“It’s okay.” He said, trying to stand up.

“How is it okay? Your definition and mine of what is okay seems very different. To me, this is totally unacceptable and should be reported.” I said, holding his arm.

“Well, I saw a different side of you. So it’s okay.” He said as he held onto his back while we walked.

“Wait here, I’ll go get you medication.” I said as I helped him sit down on the grass patch.

The empty field at the back of our school has become our hide out. We always went there during breaks or when we skipped lessons. It was peaceful there.

“No no. Don’t go. Stay with me.” He said, holding onto my hand but he let go instantly.

“Sorry. I’m not supposed to touch you.” He mumbled.

“It’s okay.” I mumbled, sitting beside him.

“At least let me clean off the blood.” I said, wetting a piece of tissue with water.

He kept staring at me while I cleaned his cuts. It was distracting and embarrassing.

“WHAT!?” I suddenly shouted.

He jumped a little and started laughing.

“Nothing. Just that I’ve never seen you so gentle before. I’m amazed.” He smiled.

I press the tissue hard onto his cut. He shouted in pain and even tear a little.

“WHAT WAS THAT FOR!?” He sniffed.

“You said I am gentle. I don’t like it.” I said.

“How could you do that!?” He frowned.

“I just did.” I said as I continued to wipe his wound.

“Can’t you be nice to me for just a day?” He said.

“I’m wiping your wound, not ripping it apart. How is this not being nice enough?” I said.

“Fine. Do whatever you want!” He pouted.

After I was done with his wounds, we both sat enjoying the silence between us. It wasn’t as awkward as before, it actually felt comfortable. He didn’t try to make unnecessary conversations anymore. I guess he learned to enjoy the silence.

“Are you okay when I am not around?” He asked.

“Yea. Nothing happened. But stuff happened only the moment you came.” I said.

“Sorry.” He apologized.

“For what? You crazy? Have you ever considered switching schools?” I asked.

He looked at me with a shocked expression.

“What?” I asked.

“You want me to leave?” He asked.

“Not that. Just.. Aren’t you tired of getting bullied? Don’t you rather be mobbed by fans?” I asked.

“It’s both as scary. But I guess I am used to it. I bring minimum money to school nowadays.” He smiled.

“To think you can still smile.” I mumbled.

“Of course I can. My friend came to my aid. In the past, you would have just walked off.” He said.

“You’re really mad.” I mumbled.

“Do you carry stones everywhere you go?” He asked.

“No. What do you think I am? From the caves?” I asked.

“Then where did you get that stone from?” He asked.

“Somewhere. Just shut up. You’re too noisy.” I said.

“Don’t you miss me? It’s been two months.” He said.

“Miss you!? Miss you!? Crazy! Life has been so peacefulwithout you!” I said.

A hint of sadness flashed across his face.

“I thought you would be at least missing me just a bit.” He said softly.

I did not answer him. Actually, I do miss him jumping around me. Everything is just weird when it quiets down after so long. I guess I kind of got use to having him near me. It got uncomfortable when he wasn’t around.

“So that means you wouldn’t care even if I am gone for another few months?” He asked softly.

“What?” I looked at him. Did he just say he would be gone again?

He smiled slightly and looked away. I felt the strong urge to ask what he meant but I couldn’t bring myself to. Then again, I wanted to know so badly what he meant.

“Where… are you going?” I forced myself to ask.

He looked at me with raised brow.

“Never mind.” I mumbled, feeling so embarrassed.

“Work. World tour. I guess I’ll be gone for about three months? But I’ll be back near Christmas.” He said.

“Oh.” I said.

“You’ll have peace, but I’ll miss you.” He said.

“Yea right.” I said.

“It’s true! I’ll miss you!” He whined.

“Whatever. I don’t care.” I said. Actually, I care.

“Can we.. You know.. Go out for a proper meal before I leave?” He asked.

“Don’t get it wrong. Just a normal meal. I just feel like buying you something nice.” He said.

“Okay.” I said.

“Really!?” He jumped a little but winced when his back hurt.

“Sit down. What are you? Three?” I frowned.

“I’m just excited.” He smiled.

“Better get your back nursed back into shape before you start the tour.” I said.

“I will.” He smiled.

“So.. When are you leaving?” I asked.

“I’m not too sure, but it’s soon.” He said.

Junhyung’s POV

I kept the incident from school away from my members. I tried to be as normal as possible, but I cannot help but winced when my back hurt from the practicing.

“Stop stop stop.” Doojoon Hyung said as he walked towards me.

“Junnie, is something wrong?” He asked.

All of them looked at me.

“No.. Nothing is wrong.” I said.

“Stand straight.” Doojoon Hyung demanded.

“Huh? Ah Hyung, I’m tired.” I said, squatting down.

“STAND UP!” He shouted.

I flinched at his volume. He grabbed my arm and pulled me up roughly.

“AHHHH!!!” I yelled when I felt the pain.

“I’ve been noticing your awkward movements since we started dancing. Ever since you came back from school that day you’ve been holding onto your back. It’s not your.. you know.. Right?” He asked.

“No.” I said.

“Hyung, did something happened?” Dongwoon asked.

I shook my head but Hyunseung pulled up my shirt even before i could stop him.

“What happened to your back!?” He shouted.

Their eyes widened at the huge patch of bruise.

“I… I…” I looked away.

“TELL ME!! DID THOSE PEOPLE DO THIS TO YOU!?” Doojoon shouted, anger clear in his eyes.

“No! I fell okay! I slipped and fell off the stairs!” I shouted back.

“You slipped!? You sure you slipped and was not pushed off!?” He yelled.

“No..” I mumbled.

“Junhyung ah! Don’t lie!” He slapped my arm.

“HYUNG!!” Yoseob shouted, hugging me protectively.

“Sorry. But Junhyung, I know you’re not that clumsy! Tell us!” He frowned.

I told them everything but left out the part on Haneul. Not that I didn’t want to tell them about Haneul, I was afraid they would stop me if they realize I actually like her and am thinking of going into a relationship with her.

“Junnie Hyung! It must be painful, eh?” Kikwang pouted, rubbing my back lightly.

“It’s not that painful already.” I said.

“You’re going to the therapist.” Doojoon Hyung said.

“But Hyung! I’m fine.” I argued.

“Don’t you dare argue with me, Yong Junhyung.” He said. I knew he meant it when he called me by my full name.

“You kept all these from us. Who are we to you? Just simply members from the group? To think we treated you like family. Yet you, you treat us like strangers. Good on you, Yong Junhyung. You want to keep everything to yourself, right? Fine, suit yourself. I don’t care anymore!” He said, throwing his bottle against the mirror before stomping out.

“Doojoon Hyung!” They shouted before looking at me.

“I’ll go get him back. He’s just worried.” Yoseob said.

“No. I’ll go.” I pulled Yoseob back.

“But Hyung…” He pouted.

“I’ll go.” I smiled and ran after Doojoon.

“Doojoon Hyung!!!!” I shouted as I ran.

“Arghhh.. DOOJOON HYUNG!! DON’T WALK SO FAST!!!! MY BACK HURTS!!!” I whined.

He stopped and turned to me. I knew that would work.

“What is it!?” He shouted.

“Hyung, I’m sorry.” I said, shaking his arm a little.

He pulled his arm away and walked out of the building. I followed him. He sat down on the steps and buried his face into his palms. With much difficulties, I managed to sit down beside him.

“I’m a failed leader and Hyung, right?” He said softly.

“Hyung, I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to keep it from you. And what do you mean when you say I treat you guys like strangers? I did not! Apart from Seungho Hyung, you’re the closest Hyung I have!” I said.

“Hyung, don’t say such things! You’re really the best!” I said, grabbing his hand.

“Then why did you keep it from us? Do you know how serious back injuries can get? But it’s not about the back this time, it’s about the bullying. How can you keep it from us? You said we’re family. But how can you keep all your problems to yourself? Do you not trust us enough? Have we not proven ourselves trustworthy to you? Hmm?” He said.

“No no. Hyung, it’s not. I trust you all! Of course! You guys accepted and took care of me when no one did. I’m very thankful. You guys are my family. I cannot imagine life without you all. It’s just that, everyone have been so stressed up for the world tour. I didn’t want to add addition stress to you all, especially you.” I said.

“Are you stupid or what? Do you seriously think it’ll make us feel better? What if one day you wake up and realize you’re half paralyzed because of this? Do you think it’s worth it? Junhyung ah, please.” He said.

“It’s not that serious.” I smiled.

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN IT’S NOT!? The bullying is getting out of hand! I don’t care, you’re switching school.” He said.

“WHAT!? HYUNG! NO!! PLEASE!!” I shouted.

He stared at me, surprised by my tone.

“I mean, no. Please.” I mumbled.

“WHY!? WHY NOT!? You enjoy all the bullying is it!?” He asked.

“No. It’s not that. Just that.. I…” I mumbled, contemplating whether to tell him about Haneul or not.

“What is it? Do you have someone in school you cannot part with?” He asked, as usual, very quick witted.

“Yes..” I mumbled.

“Who?” He asked.

“We’re just friends.” I said.

“Do you like her?” He asked.

“I don’t know. Maybe?” I said.

“Junhyung ah, you know we…” I didn’t let him finish.

“I know, Hyung. I know I am not in the position to love.” I said.

“I don’t mean you. I meant we’re celebrities, you know.” He said.

“Yes. But it’s not quite possible between us thou. She said we can only be friends.” I mumbled.

“You confessed to her already!?” He shouted.

“NO! Shhh! I’ll tell you guys about it some other time. Just know that I’m not switching schools okay? I’ve finally found a friend. I don’t want to lose this friendship.” I said.

“You mean we aren’t your friends?” He asked, looking hurt.

“You guys are family.” I smiled.

He hugged me tight.

“Don’t keep anything from us. Tell us, we’ll listen. Don’t ever think it’s a burden or what, because it’s not. And the girl, if you really like her, go for it. If she’s good, I’ll support you. We’ll support you.” He said.

“Do you think I really can?” I asked.

“Why not!? You’re a man, she’s a girl. What’s wrong!?” He looked at me.

“I just..” I looked down.

“Yong Junhyung! Have some confidence would you!? Use the confidence you had just now to yell back when I said to transfer you to another school to go for it! If you love her, go for it!” He slapped my arm.

“She’s quite tough.” I smiled.

“Well, she seem like an interesting one. Tell us about her soon, okay?” He said.

I nodded and smiled.

“How’s your back? Does it hurt a lot hmm?” He asked, massaging my back for me.

“I’m fine.” I said.

“Try keeping stuff from us again and I’ll break your back.” He said.

“Yea, Hyung.” I smiled.

“Let’s go.” He said.

“I’m going somewhere.” I said.

“Where? With your back like this?” He asked.

“Just for awhile. I’ll be back for practice.” I said.

“No. Just go back to the dorm and rest after that. Or the bookstore, your favourite place.” He said.

“Thank you, Hyung.” I said.

He helped me up and messed my hair.

“Eat dinner.” He said, handing me money.

“Why? I have it.” I said.

“No, you don’t. Now, go.” He shoved the money in my pocket.

“Hyung! I don’t need 100,000 won to eat dinner!” I shouted.

“Just go!” He waved me off.

I looked at the time. It was about 7PM. I bought dinner for Haneul and myself before heading to the bookstore.

When I stepped in, the usually warm bookstore felt as told as the outside. Haneul was wrapped up in a blanket, sitting at a corner and staring into space.

“Friend! What happened here!?” I asked, rushing to her.

She was shaking like a leaf. Her cheeks and limbs were frozen.

“What happened to you!?” I asked, taking off my coat and covering it over her.

“The warmer.. Broke down..” She said, teeth chattering.

“Why is this blanket so thin?” I mumbled.

“Are you a Pabo!? You should have called them to service it!” I said, rubbing her arms to warm her up.

“I did. But they didn’t understand me.” She said.

“Where is the warmer and tools?” I asked.

“What are you going to do?” She asked.

“Fix it of course!” I said.

I handed her a cup of hot water to warm her up before heading to fix the warmer. I’ve never fixed it before, so I am just trying my luck. After half an hour of trying, it still doesn’t seem to work.

“It’s okay…” She said.

“No. It’s not.” I said, still determine to fix the damn thing.

I called Seungho Hyung for help. I should have done it earlier. He gave me the steps like a professional and I got it done in twenty minutes.

“Thanks Hyung. You really are handy.” I said.

“I thought you were going to ask me out for dinner or something. But instead, fixing the warmer? You sure? It’s so not you. Is it for…..?” I could hear happiness in his voice.

“Tsk! I’ll call you again, Hyung. Bye!” I hung up before he could talk.

“Feeling better?” I asked as I got off the ladder.

“Thanks…” She mumbled.

“Come here, I bought us dinner.” I said.

She ran to the seat, still wrapped in blanket and my coat.

“What would happen if I came later?” I said, taking out the food.

“I’ll become a permanent ice figure here.” She said.

“HAHAHAHAHA! That’s a good one!” I laughed.

“I wasn’t joking.” She said, seriously.

“Oh. Sorry.” I apologized, feeling awkward.

“How long have you been in the cold?” I asked.

“A few hours.” She said.

“Poor thing.” I pouted.

She rolled her eyes at me.

“Don’t you get tired doing that?” I asked.

“No.” She said, picking up the spoon.

“Are you still very cold?” I asked, touching her icy hands.

She pulled away from me and stared.

“Shall I feed you? So you can keep your hands warm.” I said.

“No need.” She threw my coat back at me and started eating on her own.

She was shivering badly, but still wanted her pride.

“Aigoo. You are so stubborn. You rather shiver than let me help you, right?” I said.

“Of course. I hate you, remember?” She said.

“We’re friends, remember?” I smiled.

She took her food to another table, back facing me while she ate.

“That’s rude.” I laughed.

“I never ever said I am polite.” She said with full.

After dinner, I took a short nap before coming up again. Since it was empty, I dragged a chair to sit beside her.

“What are you reading?” I asked.

“Nothing of your business.” She kicked me away. Luckily I caught the wall, or else I would have fallen out of the seat.

“You’re really strong you know!” I said.

“I know.” She said, eyes still not taking off the book.

“Is it nice? What is it about?” She asked.

She didn’t answer me, but I kept talking. She got pissed and slammed the book onto my hand.

“Oww…” I pouted at her.

“WHAT DO YOU WANT!? I DON’T DISTURB YOU WHEN YOU SLEEP! WHY DO YOU DISTURB ME WHEN I AM READING!?” She shouted.

“So different from just now.” I smiled.

Her face darken and I know it was time to stop kidding.

“Sorry. I just wanted to talk to you.” I said.

“But I don’t want to talk to you! Can’t you tell!?” She shouted.

“Okay. Sorry.” I said, walking off to search for a random book.

I sat at the far end, pretending to read but I was actually looking at her. She looked so different when she read. She would smile and laugh to herself. Although it was minimum, she still looked cute. But I wish I was the one who made her smile instead of some fictional character.

I suddenly remembered I had something for her.

“Can I talk to you for a second?” I asked, feeling a little scared that she would pour the whole cup of tea on my head.

“What?” She said, eyes still not taking off the book.

“Remember I asked if we could go for a proper meal before I leave on my world tour?” I said.

“Yea, what about it?” She asked.

“Are you free next weekend?” I asked.

“I don’t know.” She said.

I handed her an envelope.

“What is this?” She said, taking it and putting it aside, not even bothering to open it. How hurting.

“You aren’t going to open it?” I asked.

“Later. Just tell me what is inside.” She said.

“Our first stop is Korea. So I thought you could come and enjoy the show before we head out for food after that.” I said.

“Oh.” She said.

“So… Will you come?” I asked.

I felt as thou I was begging her to come. But it’s okay. Even if I had to go on my knees, I would. Just for her, I would do anything.

Haneul’s POV

“I really hope you would come.” He said.

I looked up at him. His cheeks were a thin shade of pink and he looked kind of sad.

“If I am free, maybe I’ll pop by.” I said.

“Really!? You’ll come!? I’ll be waiting for you, okay!?” He smiled.

“Don’t hold your hopes high.” I said.

“I’ll see you there!” He said happily.

He skipped back to the other table, laughing to himself.

I took a peek inside the envelope. The ticket is for the VIP area. There was also a backstage pass and a VIP pass. I looked over at him, he was smiling to himself. He looked so cute, but why did he have to practically beg me to go? He didn’t need to do such things. Or rather, he shouldn’t be. I felt so bad, but happy at the same time. For the first time since I came, I felt important to someone.