Track 18. BAD THINGS (feat. Camila Cabello) by Machine Gun Kelly | ♩ 

December 12, Sunday early morning.

Kibum curled up in the Other Baekhyun’s arms, his small head resting on the Other Baekhyun’s shoulders, carrying him while he and Rara stood in front of the menu at the hospital’s cafeteria. It was 5:45 in the morning, 15 minutes before Rara’s shift starts. The cafeteria was deserted, as it was still early in the morning. Most of the people around were relatives or guardians of patients who stayed the night. The medical staff was probably preparing for the morning shift.

The night shift ended two hours ago, but since 3 in the morning was too much of a hassle to come over and take Kibum, Aejung decided to stay and rest at the doctor’s quarters and told Rara to just bring him to the hospital when her morning shift starts. 

It was a freezing Sunday morning, and the holiday season brought its usual chill in the air. Though it didn’t affect the superhumans, the Other Baekhyun still wore winter gear to match the cold, while Kibum wore layers of clothes to both match the weather and to keep him warm. Once again, he loaned clothes from Rin, from bottom to top. Rara was just in her usual scrub suit, minus the lab coat. 

“Would you like something warm, Kibum?” Rara asked, tucking his scarf nicely to keep his neck from getting cold. “Like hot chocolate?” 

“Yes, please.” He mumbled, still dazed from being awake so early.

“I’m really sorry we had to leave this early, buddy.” Rara smiled apologetically. “Your mom will come and get you in a minute.” 

“It’s fine, noona.”

“Is the cold bothering you?”

“No,” he said, smiling. “I’m warm enough in Baekhyun hyung’s arms.” 

The Other Baekhyun grinned at Kibum then at Rara. Of course, he’s warm enough. He’s the demon inside Baekhyun, in flesh. He probably lives in hell. Pursing her lips, Rara just gave Kibum a nod and said, “Okay, then.” She looked at the Other Baekhyun. “And you? Do you want something?” 

“Nope.” 

“Well, then why don’t you guys find us a table and I’ll order?” 

“Okay, Doc.”

Rara ordered one hot chocolate and black coffee for herself. The cafeteria lady recognized her as well as the Other Baekhyun and asked, “How have you been, Dr. Byun?” 

“I’m okay, I guess.” Rara replied in a pleasant tone.

“And your husband?” She looked far behind her, focusing on the Other Baekhyun and Kibum, narrowing her eyes at Aejung’s toddler, who now sat beside him. “Did you have another child that I do not know about?” 

“He’s doing okay, too and no, that’s not my kid.” Rara chuckled lightly. “Look closely. I think you might recognize him.” 

When the cafeteria lady gave Kibum one more look, her face lit up and said, “Ah, yes. Dr. Hwang’s toddler. My, he’s grown a tad bit. Haven’t seen Kibum in a while.” Another staff member brought in Rara’s orders and placed them on a tray. “You guys took care of Kibum for Dr. Hwang?” 

“Yeah, you could say that.” 

The cafeteria lady lifted the tray carefully and handed it to Rara. “Don’t you miss having a toddler of your own?” She asked with a knowing smile.

Rara laughed, a bit timidly. “No, not really. Not at the moment.” 

The cafeteria lady caught her subtle hint that she wasn’t interested in having another child soon. “Okay, well, then enjoy your drinks, Dr. Byun.” She said with a smile. “Have a great day at work today, Doc.” 

“Yes, you too, ahjumma. Keep up the good work.” 

“Noona?” 

“Yes?” Rara looked at Kibum, who sat opposite to her. They were both halfway done with their hot drinks. 

“That thing on your neck,” Kibum pointed to the stethoscope on Rara’s neck. “can I try it? Mom never l