Solemn Atmosphere; A Ball of Cotton

*

               Something struck Chansung as odd. He woke suddenly in the middle of the night to a chill creeping over his skin, but also a deep feeling of unrest. Looking around, nothing seemed amiss and there were no unfamiliar scents in the air. He looked over at Wooyoung to find him still completely asleep. His attention lingered on him for a few blissful seconds before he rose to his feet. He crept out into the hallway and looked down to the living room. A soft light was on downstairs. Slowly descending, he came to the living room. He was startled to find the bed devoid of the mother, but the cubs remained. Then he caught the scent of blood. He raced down the stairs and came to the kitchen. Soft breathing sounded in his ears and he found her leaning against the door.

                “Hey, hey, you shouldn’t be moving around like this.” He said and knelt beside her.

                She hissed weakly in his direction and pawed at the door. Then he realised the small bundle of her stillborn cub was beside her. Chansung deflated instantly and rested his hand over the small body.

                “I’m sorry...that this little one couldn’t make it – but you have three cubs who will need you.”

                “Listen well...leopard,” she wheezed. “I’m tired. I’m worn down to my last breaths. I won’t make it to morning, and I know you know that. I can see it in your eyes. You understand.” She peered at him finally. “Promise me my young will find a good home, away from this place. Promise me...” She slumped against the door. “Now, let me free, let me die away from them.”

                Chansung clenched his hand tightly into a fist and closed his eyes. “Who did this to you?”

                “There are many things happening to hybrids across the world.” She said quietly. “You...Hwang I overheard...they hunted you too. I've heard the stories.”

                Chansung’s eyes widened and he almost shot back. “Were they near here?”

                She shook her head. “No..., but they are close. I travelled for days.”

                “Who?” His voice grew angry.

                “The ones who make us Abandons. They run rampant in these parts. They were going to make my kits...” Her voice trailed off and she pawed at her lost child. “They wounded me so greatly...I lost one. Please, protect my children. I can’t do it...” She pawed at the door, begging him to let her go. “Don’t let them awake to a dead mother. Let me have this, kin.”

                Chansung wasted no more of her precious time and opened the door. “They’ll be safe...” He assured quietly.

                She picked up the bundle and glanced up at him. There were so many emotions in her eyes: pain, sadness, vivid despair...and relief. Stepping out into the chilly air after her, he watched her go. She made her way off into the woods without looking back. It would be too painful. It was painful. An overwhelming sadness welled up in his chest.

                “It’s my turn to walk, Chansung. You’ve been good to this old baba. Now, go continue your adventure.”

                Hands tightening, he heard a soft cry inside and raced back in. He stopped as he closed the door and looked out again. A delicate snowfall had begun. Hearing another cry he locked the door and made his way to the living-room. The little lynx’s were edging about on the blanket, searching for their mother. It tore his heart to pieces. He settled himself around them and held them close.

                “Big bwodder, I had a bad dweam.”

                “Come on...big brother will chase them away.”

                Closing his eyes tightly he held them close. He ran his hands over them and coaxed them back to sleep. His throat felt unbearably tight and his eyes burned. “I’m sorry...”

                *

                Chansung woke to warmth, and soft fur tickled his arm and neck. Opening his eyes further, he also realised he was covered in a blanket. His back and neck felt stiff and he stretched out his legs only for them to jut out into the cooler air. Curling back, he nearly jumped out of his skin when Wooyoung leaned against him, his heat permeating into Chansung's back. He felt so good!

                “Oh, I hope I didn’t wake you up.” He whispered.

                Chansung shook his head.

                It was quiet between them. The only sound was the random whimpers of the lynx cubs.

                “They know she’s gone, but they appreciate you being right here.” Wooyoung said as he ran his fingers over their heads. “What happened last night?”

                Chansung closed his eyes and tried to quell the emotions that rose instantly. “I...got a feeling like when something was wrong with my siblings. I made sure you were alright first, and then I came down here.” Chansung rolled onto his back slowly. Wooyoung moved with his adjustment and continued to pet the cubs from over him. “They were all alone and I noticed the kitchen light on. She was waiting by the door to be let out. I tried to convince her not to...” He trailed off as Wooyoung cupped his face in his hands and rested his forehead against his. It was then that he realised he was crying. When did that happen?

                “Teri said she wasn’t going to make it. She had been in a lot of pain before she got here. She was really strong to have made it to us.”

                Chansung nodded and relaxed a little. “It was because of the Catchers, Wooyoung.” His voice broke. “They were going to take her cubs from her.”

                “Shh, calm down.” Wooyoung comforted and pulled him up. “Think of how strong she was to escape them. She made it here and she’s survived by her lovely children. I know it’s unfortunate what happened, but we can’t change it. I'm sad we can't save everyone, too, but these little cubs are here with us.”

                “I’m so disgusted though...”

                “I know. I am too...” Wooyoung sat back. “They’re going to need milk. I’ll go and get it ready. Teri said until she finds a surrogate home they’ll be staying in Fortune. It seems like they’ve grown attached to you already.”

                Indeed, one cub was already making its way onto his lap.

                Chansung lifted his gaze to meet Wooyoung’s. “When...when you get back, can I tell you something about when I was with the wolves?”

                Wooyoung smiled brightly at him. “Of course, I’d love to hear it,” he rose to his feet and ruffled his hair.

                Chansung scooped up the cubs and shuffled back onto the bed to make himself more comfortable.  They were whining a little bit but he hushed them gently. “It’s coming, just wait.” He ran his fingers over their heads and smiled. “You’re going to be so saucy when you’re bigger...”

                Now, with the lynx kittens around him, he felt so utterly homesick. He missed his siblings so very much. Many times he had thought about sneaking back to the Capital, he knew he could make it. All thoughts of leaving flew out the window when Wooyoung made his way up the stairs, and the memories of why he was travelling reminded him of why he couldn’t go home. Wooyoung walked over to him with a tray filled with food and bottles of warm milk.

                “Oh, is that for me too?”

                Wooyoung bit his lip as if to stop himself from saying something.

                “What?” He laughed.

                “Nothing, it was a bad joke.”

                “Make me laugh,” Chansung challenged playfully.

                “No...” Wooyoung whined uncharacteristically. “I’ll feed two and you the third, but you have to eat some food too, deal?”

                Chansung didn’t argue. They switched places so Wooyoung could support the two cubs and Chansung kept the other in a blanket on his lap. “This really reminds me of being with my siblings...” He said as he plopped a nice sized piece of meat in his mouth.

                “It suits you, a lot.” Wooyoung teased.

                “Shut up...” He murmured and ate more food.

                “So, tell me about the wolves.”

                Chansung almost choked on his food.

                “Hey, take it easy.” Wooyoung chuckled.

                “Sorry,” he cleared his throat and sat back. “I told you about the wolf Elder.”

                “Yes,” Wooyoung confirmed. “Sometimes you spoke about her in present tense, sometimes in past.”

                Chansung closed his eyes and nodded. “The reason I had to move on from the wolf pack, and why I’m now here, is because of her.” He said quietly. “I lived with her for the majority of the time I was in the country. I went on hunts with the pack and joined in on their celebrations. I wouldn’t have been able to without her consent though, and did I ever have to prove myself.” He smiled fondly. “I had to get three flowers, not just one, but three to show her my dedication – doesn’t make it any easier that it’s one of the smallest of the flowers in the open country.” Chansung looked down at the lynx cub and smiled. “She was the only one in the pack who believed I could do it. ‘The wayfarer will do it,’ she would say. "She always called me that, ‘wayfarer’.”

                “I’m assuming you found it.”

                Chansung smiled. “I did. I brought her a whole bunch,” he laughed. “When I got back she said, ‘you idiot cat, I told you three not the whole bush’.” Wooyoung laughed. “I learned so much from her during my time there. It was from her that I learned the importance of accepting death. I told her about my journeys and what impacts they had on me and she said, ‘wayfarer, you’re holding onto too much pain. You’re running from your guilt and your pain.’ I’d never realised I was doing that up until I met her, and I still can’t seem to accept it. Even you yourself said it,” he leaned back against a chair and touched his chest. “You said, ‘you’re carrying troubles in here. You’re hurting yourself by doing that’. Everyone can see it, but I don’t know how to not be afraid and trust people. Last night I was reminded of the night baba died. I felt the same chill I did that night, along with that unsettling feeling." He had to stop for a minute. He was becoming emotional thinking about her. Wooyoung didn't push him, just encouraged him in his way. "I woke up and found her seated in the door of her house, staring across the land. She asked me, ‘do you feel a small chill, wayfarer?’ I said, ‘yes.’ You just feel it inside, something is wrong. The chill crept over me and I knew something was wrong, and that was why I came down here.”

                “She told me it was normal, sometimes you can just feel the change, feel when someone's journey is coming to a close. She told me you know that sensation when you've been at death's door and made it back." Chansung still shivered whenever he thought about it, and Wooyoung was looking at him concerned but made no move to comment yet. "So when I came down here and found her missing, I knew she was either gone or somewhere else in the house preparing to die.” Wooyoung’s eyes darkened considerably. “When I saw the wolf Elder in the doorway, it was almost as if she was already standing between the two worlds. She told me that when I woke I would understand that it is alright to release pain, and to realise that my guilt and hurt over the things I experienced in the past were not supposed to rule my life. I’ll never forget what she said before she left the house, never.”

                Wooyoung was closer to him now, he hadn’t realised he moved forward. “What did she say?”

                Chansung smiled, “It’s my turn to walk alone, Chansung. You’ve been good to this old baba. Now, go continue your adventure, wayfarer.” Tears welled up in his eyes again and he pressed his hand to his eyes. “That was the only time she called me Chansung. Wooyoung, I’m so tired of pain and grieving. I don’t have the courage to say I’m...” He choked on a sob. “I miss her a lot...”

                “Hey, you’re allowed to miss her.” Wooyoung soothed and pulled him close. “Thank you for sharing that with me. I know how important people like the Wolf baba and these experiences are for you. I just...I know what it’s like to hold the pain inside. I want to help you and for you to trust me but only when you’re ready. Besides, I think it’s really admirable that you just keep going, and no wonder, you have had such wonderful people supporting you.”

                Chansung could only nod.

                “Tell me...”

                Chansung held the now sleeping kits closer. “I want to continue, and keep going, but I want to go home. But then I’d feel like I’m a failure if I do that-”

                 “Hwang Chansung, you wouldn’t be a failure if you went home.” Wooyoung chastised and lifted his head up. “You’ve been travelling for a long time. I think the familiarity of home, seeing your family and friends, letting them see you, doesn’t that sound good?” Wooyoung massaged the back of his neck comfortingly.

                That sounded insanely good, but it was impossible for many reasons.

                “I’m not finished, and-"

                “If you go home that doesn’t mean you can’t start out again.” The enigma assured. “Why do you feel conflicted? It shouldn’t bother you so much to want to go home...”

                Chansung couldn’t stop the words. They came out boldly and full of emotion, “because I want to stay here.”

                Wooyoung’s eyes widened and his hand stilled. Then he was smiling warmly and hugging him close. “You’re allowed to come back, kit. Tell you what, why not stay until the fox festival and then head home for a bit?”

                “No...”

                Wooyoung frowned. “Chansung, I don’t think you’ll feel balanced unless you go home.” He said knowingly. “I feel really happy that you want to stay, but I don’t understand why you think you wouldn’t be able to come back if you went home?”

                Could he tell him why he couldn’t go home? He would have to at some point. “I...can’t go back, Wooyoung.”

                “Don’t be silly, of course you can-"

                “No, I really can’t. As soon as I'm seen I would be arrested.” He admitted. A huge weight lifted from his shoulders.

                Wooyoung eyed him warily. “You’re not some ultra-weird criminal are you?”

                Chansung couldn’t help but laugh. “Do you honestly think I am?”

                “No, but you can never be too sure these days...” Wooyoung smirked.

                “It’s...it’s because of my search for the foxes. The researchers who have been searching for the foxes have been hounding me ever since for my information. I’ve hindered a lot of their captures which the government says is ‘illegal’. I've also been helping...those who have been captured and Abandons.”

                Wooyoung’s eyes brightened. “You’ve saved foxes from the researchers and hybrids from Catchers?”

                Chansung nodded. Wooyoung seemed to stare off into the distance, a different smile on his lips. “Even if I really wanted to, I can’t go back, Wooyoung.”

                “Now I understand why you’re so upset...” Wooyoung cooed and ruffled his hair. “Here I was suggesting you go home and that was probably the last thing you wanted to hear. I’m sorry, kit.”

                Chansung couldn’t help but curl his toes. “Don’t apologise...you didn’t know.”

                “My lovely babe, why does it look like Chansung has been crying?” Min-Jun asked as he came up towards them.

                “We’re having a heart-to-heart chat.” Wooyoung grumbled.

                Min-Jun glanced over him, “Hm.”

                “Don’t you ‘hm’ me, I might pick on him a lot but that’s how I show affection.”

                Chansung couldn’t help it. He released his laughter. It was so freeing. He was so emotionally drained at the moment that all he could do was laugh. He barely heard Min-Jun say, ‘spirits Wooyoung, you broke him.’ He was laughing even harder. When he was finished, he felt so light. He was lying back on the make-shift bed, Wooyoung next to him with the lynx cubs.

                “That sounded like a laugh of release to me.” Wooyoung said as he lifted his head to look at him.

                “It was...”

                “Good, I’m happy to hear it. You look a little less grey.” Wooyoung reached out and flicked his nose. “Min-Jun thinks you’ve lost it though, but he’s one to talk.”

                “Are you calling me insane, babe?” Min-Jun tickled him.

                “No! Stop! They’re sleeping!” Wooyoung laughed.

                “Hm, if only I could have seen you when you were that small.” Min-Jun said, and smoothed Wooyoung’s hair back. “Can you imagine how cute he would have looked, Chansung?!” Min-Jun cooed and hugged Wooyoung close. The enigma attempted to look irritated, he really did, but Chansung could see beyond that. Wooyoung didn’t push Min-Jun away nor did he stop his fawning. “He had such puffy cheeks when he was young.” Chansung blushed a little, recalling the picture tucked away in the journal Min-Jun gave him. Wooyoung really was cute, then and now.

                “Hey!” Wooyoung groaned as Min-Jun pinched his left cheek.

                “I love you.” Min-Jun said and kissed his temple.

                Wooyoung quieted instantly and flushed. “You’re getting sappy already.”

                “Surprised?”

                Wooyoung shook his head.

                “This about the very important visitor?” Chansung asked.

                “Why don’t you two go out tonight? Go have some fun. I think we’ve had a pretty emotional couple of days and you both deserve to let off some steam.” Min-Jun suggested.

                Wooyoung was eyeing Min-Jun suspiciously but didn’t question him. “We don’t have much to do in this town, Chansung, but there’s a nice bar, a theatre and some decent restaurants.”

                “Can I take a nap first?” He asked tiredly.

                Wooyoung smiled at him. “You don’t need to ask. Now, you!” Min-Jun raised a brow. “Stop pestering me. Is Teri going to be looking after that lynx babies?”

                “You betcha. She told me she knows of a lynx community that would be happy to take them in, so she'll be picking them up today.” Min-Jun answered. “As much as I would love to keep them here, it would be better for them to grow with those who carry their traditions and will understand what they need better.”

                “You understood me just fine.” Wooyoung huffed and stormed away.

                “Aish...” Min-Jun said. “Made him mad...”

                Chansung shrugged. “He never stays mad at you for long.”

                “Yeah, that’s true. Still, I never seem to say the right thing to him these days. i'm a little worried about my partner in crime coming. I don't know what he'll do...”

                “How long have you been with your partner? And why don’t they stay with you?”

                Min-Jun tapped his chin. “I’ve been with him for ages. We have a really weird relationship. He comes home when I call or every few months. His job deals with isolated communities and vulnerable populations. The other reason why I couldn’t go with him is because of Wooyoung. I wanted him to have stability and to get an education and have every chance at whatever life he wanted possible. When Wooyoung came to be with with us...he was so skinny, except those cute cheeks. He was only small then, and he was such a wild child in the beginning. Most of Wooyoung’s childhood was spent out in the woods, that’s where he had to learn to cook for himself. He really has a hard time opening up to people, never really made a lot of friends back then. It was so scary, the first couple of days we had him. I didn’t know if he would survive or not, he was that tiny.”

               Chansung hugged himself. “Do you think he wants to go back to the country?”

               “He’s said it to me before. He doesn’t like living in the city. I told him he was free to go...but...I’ll...explain better once they’re here, because then you’ll understand.”

                “You really do change when he’s involved.”

                “Who doesn’t when their Significant is involved?”

                Chansung smiled, “true.”

                “Anyway, back to baking. They should be good to sleep for a while so why don’t you mind the counter for a bit?”

                “Alright...” Chansung said and made the cubs comfortable. When he was settled at the counter, Wooyoung drifted in and set a coffee down next to him. “Thank you...”

                “Guess your nap will have to wait for a while.”

                Chansung shrugged, “that’s alright. Maybe I won’t need one.”

                Wooyoung gripped his shoulder briefly before vanishing into the kitchen. Chansung thought about their choices and what they could do. He really did want to go to the denning area. Maybe he could convince Wooyoung to go there. He wasn’t really a bar-type person. A movie also sounded nice but it would depend on what it was. Sighing deeply he rubbed his cheeks. Now he was just being picky. Whatever Wooyoung wanted, he would go along with it. He didn’t picture the shorter man as a big partier and he could really use a drink or two. He just hoped an awkward situation didn’t arise.

                After Wooyoung had closed down the shop, Chansung moved to the back to help him clean up the kitchen. He hadn’t seen Min-Jun in hours. It wasn’t until they were actually dressed and ready to head out that he appeared.

                “Don’t do anything reckless...” Min-Jun said with a pout.

                “Honestly, you’re treating us like teenagers.” Wooyoung huffed and pulled at Min-Jun’s cheeks. “I’m the one that should be saying that to you.”

                “I just love you my babe.”

                Wooyoung was blushing again. “Honestly, you’re such a sap.”

                Chansung couldn’t help but chuckle. Min-Jun’s behaviour reminded him a lot of Fei when she was expecting Aaron to return home after he'd been travelling a long time. “I’d rather be a sap than emotionless.” Min-Jun cooed.

                “Ugh,” Wooyoung gripped his wrist and pulled him outside. “See you tomorrow.” He called and waved.

                Chansung didn’t know why but he felt giddy all of a sudden and couldn’t help but smile.

                “What’s got you all excited? I hope his scent didn’t influence you...”

                Chansung shrugged, “this is the first time you and I are going out together since I came here.” He rubbed the back of his neck and smiled. “Can’t help it okay.”

                “I assure you I am by no means an exciting person.” Wooyoung chuckled.

                ‘I beg to differ,’ he voiced in his head. “Let me be the judge of that, okay?” Chansung said and matched Wooyoung’s pace. “So, what are you up for?”

                “No idea,” Wooyoung admitted and looked around. “I may do the deliveries for the shop but I actually don’t go out much.”

                Chansung stopped and tilted his head. “Well how long does Min-Jun want privacy for?”

                Wooyoung shrugged, “not sure. We don’t really have to be out late. I don’t know if they’ll stay at the house for long. We could always catch a late night showing of a movie or go to a pub I like to go sometimes.” Wooyoung said as they continued on their stroll down the main road. “I haven’t actually been to the pub in a while so it might be nice.” He added. “Unless you have a place that you would like to see.”

                “Mm, well, we don’t have the truck so it’s probably not a good idea.” Chansung said bashfully.

                “Tch, I bet I know where you want to go.” Wooyoung said amused.

                “Well, I’m not trying to hide it.” He chuckled.

                “I promise I’ll take you there on our next day off, alright?”

                Chansung nodded and followed him towards the small mall. They turned down a different street than the one he and Junho walked on. This one had small shops and restaurants. It was beside the main road which Chansung regarded as familiar territory, but had a different atmosphere. “Ne, Wooyoung, Junho said that you, him, and Min-Jun eat at the diner called Joan's every two weeks.”

                “Mm, yes, you've already had a run in with it's namesake. Her husband and rest of the family took over and have been keeping it going. The slogan says they have the best strawberry smoothie in town but I think their apple pie and ice cream smoothie beats it.” Wooyoung said with a grin.

                “Apple pie and ice cream!” Chansung exclaimed. That sounded divine!

                “We definitely need to plan a family night out,” Wooyoung said fondly.

                Chansung immediately shook his head. “I don’t want to impose on a family tradition. Besides, the three of us eat at home together, can’t do everything together.”

                Wooyoung chuckled. “You’re being too particular. Besides, how else are you going to try the best smoothie in town?”

                Chansung tilted his head. “Do you want me to come?”

                Wooyoung smiled at him briefly before ducking into a small building. He didn't answer Chansung's question! Instead he changed the topic like he did when he was hiding something. “I have a feeling your presence here is going to be the talk of the pub. Everyone has been itching to meet ‘Min-Jun’s new cashier’.” Chansung might have been hearing things, but there was a particular tone to those words, like Wooyoung was apprehensive.

                “Something wrong?”

                Wooyoung shook his head. “Just warning you that a bunch of people might flock around you for a bit.”

                Chansung chuckled, “yeah, that happened with the wolves a lot.”

                “Hm, well then they are the wolves and you are the sheep.” Wooyoung led them inside and held the door for him.

                Chansung was glad to be out of the cooler air. Looking around, he smiled. It was a cozy little place. There were a bunch of round tables and high chairs. People were scattered throughout in their little groups. A large one was seated in front of the television watching a game. A loud cheer reverberated throughout the room as a team scored. Wooyoung led the way to the bar counter.

                “Oh! Wooyoung! I haven’t seen you in a long time.”

                “Hey Changmin, how’s business been?”

                “It’s been pretty good. Had some ruffians in a couple weeks ago but it’s been pretty good since then.” The buff-looking man said with a smile. His gaze turned to him instantly and narrowed. They widened immediately and he held out his hand and the corners of his lips rose again. “Min-Jun’s new worker hey? Nice to meet you, I’m Changmin.”

                Chansung gripped his hand and returned the smile, “Chansung.”

                “Wooyoung!”

                Both turned to another man and a woman. They both hugged Wooyoung tightly and checked him over. “Where have you been? It’s been weeks!” The girl said.

                “Min-Jun has been having a lot of visitors.” Wooyoung said.

                She sighed and nodded. “I thought he might be.”

                “And this is?” The man indicated to Chansung.

                “Oh-"

                “I’m Chansung.” He greeted and shook their hands.

                “I’m Hye Lim!” The woman greeted with a cute smile.

                “San E.” The man said. “Wooyoung’s oldest friend.”

                “San E...” Wooyoung huffed, “no need to be rude.”

                “Nice to meet you both.” Chansung said not miffed at all. He sensed that San E was a beta and very territorial. He wasn’t sure about Hye Lim but she was very domineering, it wouldn't surprise him if she was an omega. It was nice to be out and about and see more of the hybrid community of Fortune. Hye Lim ensnared Wooyoung in a conversation and Chansung went about ordering himself a drink. San E didn't seem like he was interested in speaking with him, and he wanted to give Wooyoung space to speak with his friends. “What kind of ales you got Changmin?”

                “Hm, I've got a few kinds.” Changmin said and stepped back. “Brown, golden or barley variety?”

                “Mm...how about brown.”

                “Manns it is.” Changmin topped off a glass for him and winked, “first one is on the house.”

                Chansung raised his glass in cheers and took a sip. It had been a while since he’d had anything alcoholic, so he knew not to push himself. Although, due to the emotional strain of the day he didn’t mind potentially getting a buzz on. “Are you a hybrid?” He asked suddenly.

                Changmin shook his head. “Nah, but my wife is. You’re probably catching her scent.”

                Chansung nodded. “Is she a songbird?” He asked.

                “Wow, you’re really good!” Changmin boasted.

                Grinning he took another sip of his ale. “I assure you, I’ve had a lot of practice. It's a nice bar game.”

                Changmin laughed, “you’re quite the interesting character, Mr. Chansung. The fact that little Wooyoung has attached to you so quickly, I’m quite happy but also envious.” Changmin leaned forward and turned his gaze over to his company. Chansung noticed Wooyoung had a soft smile to his features. As Hye Lim told her story he never cast his eyes away from her. How long had he been wanting to see his friends? He hoped he didn’t have anything to do with Wooyoung not going out. Min-Jun said he didn’t have many friends so it didn’t make sense that he wouldn’t have seen them.

                “Does he come here often?” He asked as he turned back to the older man.

                Changmin shook his head. “Every once in a while, sometimes when he’s had a fight with Min-Jun, others when he just wants company.” Changmin motioned him to come closer, which he did so. “If you ask me, I think he really just needs to spread his wings. He didn’t always live in Fortune, he lived out in the country until he was 10. He was a handful!” Changmin rested his chin in his hand. Again, Chansung returned his attention to Wooyoung. “I don’t think he would ever leave Min-Jun on his own. Min-Jun's partner can only come every so often because of work, so Wooyoung says he feels responsible to support him.”

                “You seem to know him quite well.”

                “I babysat him whenever Min-Jun got really busy. Wooyoung was always alright, I think he could have been good by himself. But...” Changmin trailed off and his eyes went glassy. “I don’t think he can take the loneliness you know? He gets antsy when he's alone.”

                “I hope you’re not telling him embarrassing stories about me, Changmin.” Wooyoung said as he sat himself beside him.

                Chansung watched their interaction with a new light. Slowly, he was beginning to piece the enigma beside him together. Wooyoung still made no sense to him, he told Chansung many things, but he could tell there were things he kept hidden. He was...kind, easy to attach to, and accepting of different lifestyles. But, was that because of his life with Min-Jun?

                “If I tell you my life story too fast, you’ll leave soon.”

                Blood rushed to his cheeks and he chugged too much beer. He wasn’t going to deny that he had an attraction to Wooyoung, it would be silly if he did. It was just...was he attracted to him because he sent warm sensations throughout his body whenever they touched, or because he was a mystery that he really wanted to understand? Wooyoung did a lot, intentionally, so he was aware of what his presence did to him. Was he reading into it too much? Then he remembered their conversation they had the night before. They were both antsy about revealing their true selves to each other, yet Chansung very much trusted him. Wooyoung seemed to feel the same, but they both had reasons to not share.

                “Because you’re not ready to let me know yet, and I respect that, because you don’t force me to show myself either.”

                Realising Wooyoung was again talking animatedly with Hye Lim and San E, he turned back to the older man. “Ne, Changmin, can I ask you something?” Chansung said after he ordered another ale.

                “Of course.” Changmin said as he filled up his glass.

                “Why do you think he’s lonely?”

                Changmin sighed as he rested his filled glass on his coaster. “Things I've observed and witnessed over the years. I’m sure you’d have noticed by now.” Chansung’s brows furrowed together.

                “What?”

                “Did anyone come to visit him since you’ve been at Min-Jun’s?”

                Chansung went quiet as he thought about the question. Meeting Changmin’s gaze again he shook his head, the man had a sad look about him.

                “I think...he got so tired of reaching out to people, and he’s been hurt so much, he just...stopped caring. That’s why last year was so hard for him and Min-Jun.”

                Chansung recalled Junho saying they didn’t participate in the festivals last year because of personal problems.

                “So...seeing him here, laughing like he used to, I can’t help but think...” Changmin trailed off and smiled at him.

                “Can’t help but think what?”

                “You’re really easy to talk to, y'know?” Changmin dismissed.

                Chansung groaned, “hey!”

                Changmin laughed and pat him on the shoulder. “I’ll give you another free ale, so let it go, ne?”

                Chansung grumbled but indicated to his glass. “This can’t be good for business.”

                “No, but it’s good for me.” Changmin boasted and handed him his glass. “You handle alcohol pretty well. Can’t say the same about Wooyoung and San E though, they’re pretty funny when they’re drunk.” Changmin moved down the counter to another customer. There went Chansung’s crutch. A familiar scent invaded his nostrils and a hand smoothed over his shoulder.

                “Hey, you’re Min-Jun’s new cashier.”

                Chansung felt a shiver of disgust fly up his back. It was the same girl that he and Junho had bumped into. “I am,” he said as pleasantly as he could.

                “You look a little lonely all by your lonesome, want some company?” She said with a small slur. He was hit with her scent again, but this time it carried a hint of arousal.

                “Oh, but I do have great company.” He pointed to his ale, and took a sip. “It’s quite good.”

                “Oh, no, no, that just won’t do.” She laughed, completely oblivious to his disinterest. She leaned in close, her lips trailed across his ear, “I can show you a good time, and I bet you could show me the same.”

                He didn’t know this person's connections, if she would spread rumours about him, and whether or not she could bring harm or discomfort to Wooyoung and Min-Jun. If she did he wouldn’t be able to forgive himself. He was angry but he knew better. “I'm not interested. I think you’ve had a bit much to drink.” He said. “Where are your friends? Maybe it’s time for you to head home.” He suggested and of course she took it the opposite of what he wanted.

                “I’ll go if you come with me.”

                She began to move away from him and Chansung felt warm arms smooth around his waist, as well as a familiar weight rest against him. “Chansung...” Wooyoung whined. “I think I drank too much.”

                Chuckling, he looked back, his whole body warming much more pleasantly than it needed to. Indeed, Wooyoung looked everything but sober, his face was flushed and he snuggled into his back. “Someone else is asking me to go home with them, Wooyoung.”

                Those sharp eyes opened, surprising both him and the girl. “Haa...” He sighed. Chansung felt all of his nerves frazzle just from that sound. "Ah, the money chaser. He's the very definition of poor right now."

                “ you, Jang.” The girl flicked her hair and vanished.

                Chansung flushed heavily as Wooyoung’s hands opened over his stomach. Anyone else and he could have physically removed them from his body. Only, this was Wooyoung, and while he was experiencing mild tension, for some reason it was hard to deny Wooyoung touching him. “Wooyoung, you’re-"

                “Changmin! Two more shots!” Wooyoung said as he plopped himself down onto the now vacant chair to his right.

                “Don’t you think you’ve had enough, how about some water instead?”

                “If you knew wha’ I was goin’ home to, you’d drink a whole ‘nother bottle...” Wooyoung grumbled.

                Chansung felt like he could finally relax. He couldn’t help but chuckle now. “Wooyoung, maybe it is time to stop.”

                “Not you too, what're ya, the booze police?” Wooyoung asked and jabbed him in the shoulder. “You’re too nice. You shoulda just told her like it is, kit. That you like the mens and got the hots for the mens.”

                This of course made Chansung go steamy under the collar. Chansung downed the rest of his ale and ordered a fourth and final. “I don’t want anything bad to happen to you or Min-Jun because I upset a feline.”

                Wooyoung laughed out loud and shot back the liquor. “Yuck, this is disgusting.”

                Chansung couldn’t help but laugh. “Why are you drinking it then?”

                “Like I said, if - well you’re coming home with me you’ll understand.”

                Chansung leaned against the counter, “I’m coming home with you?”

                Wooyoung turned to him, eyes droopy, face tinted red. A silly smile graced his lips. “Would you like to go find miss kitty?”

                “Wooyoung, don’t even joke about it. I like the mens, remember?”

                "Of course, of course." The enigmatic man laughed. “Let’s cheers,” Wooyoung raised his glass. “To...hmm...” Wooyoung looked down at the floor. “I don’t know what we are, but whatever we are cheers! To the hot mens!”

                Chansung shook his head and chuckled. “So, are we being better friends, Wooyoung?” He asked as he took a sip.

                “Well, I hope so, I saved you from the money chasing monster after all.”

                Chansung choked on his ale and almost fell off his chair.

                “Spirits, you drunker than me or somethin’?” Wooyoung asked, knowing smile on his face.

                “Don’t give me that you bastard – you know what you said!” Chansung wiped at his mouth and face.

                Wooyoung snickered. He snickered.

                “You’re some saucy...” Chansung said as he took a huge gulp of his drink.

                “The only way I’d rather be.” Wooyoung said and looked at his watch. “Oh...Changmin! One more please!” Wooyoung called. “We need to go soon.”

                “Where are you going?” Changmin grumbled. “Home I hope.”

                Wooyoung shrugged. “Where else would we go? I hope y’ur not insinu...insinu-a-ting – ha! Something dirty there.”

                “Get out, this is the final one you little .” Changmin laughed and set down the shot. “I mean it, even if you beg me for another one I ain’t handin' it over.”

                Chansung finished his ale and waved his hand. Any more buzzed and he didn’t know how they were going to get home. When they were finally dressed, Wooyoung handed over the cash for their drinks. “Wooyoung...”

                “Shh,” the shorter man pressed his finger to his lips and all but pressed into him. “Do not argue with a drunk.” He was very convincing.

                “Alright, alright...” Chansung waved to Changmin and led them out.

                “I feel like...like a ball of cotton.” Wooyoung said and stretched his arms to the sky. Chansung caught him as he stumbled a little. “I will not...do that again.”

                “Wooyoung, just how much did you drink?”

                “Iuno...” Wooyoung answered and raised his hands. “I don’t usually...I rarely drink like that.”

                “Why did you today?”

                Wooyoung righted himself in his arms and looked away. “Felt right...until I'm ready to handle it like a normal-ish person.”

                Chansung made to say more but Wooyoung stalked off towards home. The cool air felt sobering and good against his hot skin. He didn’t have any right to reprimand Wooyoung, he himself drank far too much as well. His head was already hurting. “So, is there anything I should know about Min-Jun’s partner?”

                Wooyoung’s expression changed completely. He was calm, smiling and relaxed. “He’s a big softie once you get to know ‘im. I was...really mad at Min-Jun last year for a lot of things. I never even got to see him...” Wooyoung looked up into the night sky. “I’m really fortunate, havin' them both in my life. I just...don’t know if it was the right choice.”

                Chansung looked at him concerned. Wooyoung had stopped and continued to gaze up into the night sky. “What do you mean?”

                “I wonder if...maybe their lives woulda been better without me, y'know?” Wooyoung sighed.

                Chansung flew forward and gripped Wooyoung’s shoulders. “Hey! Don’t talk like that...” He shook his head. “Min-Jun is so proud of you, and always talks about you. I’m sure his partner is the same way. Why would you even think that?”

                Wooyoung’s eyes widened and shined a little. “Sorry...” He made to turn but Chansung wound his arms around him tightly.

                “We’re both a little buzzed, drunk, whatever. Don’t feel like you can’t tell me these things sober, okay?”

                Wooyoung nodded. “Thanks, Chansung.”

                He leaned back and brushed at his cheek. “Where’d my saviour from the monster go?”

                Wooyoung groaned and covered his face with his hands. “You’re never going to let me live that down...”

                “Not a chance!”

                They made fun of each other’s slurs and random phrases all the way back to the bakery. Once there, Wooyoung hushed him and they snuck through the back. Honestly, this felt like grade school when Chansung used to sneak out with Fei. They made it to Wooyoung’s room and dropped their coats and things to the floor.

                “Ne, Chansung?”

                “Hm?” He hummed as he slid under his blankets.

                “I still feel like a ball of cotton...”

                “Go to sleep!” He laughed.

                It was quiet for a while again. Chansung felt himself drifting off. “Ne, kit?”

                “Hm?”

                “We should go out again sometime.”

                “Sounds like a plan...”

*

Next Chapter...An Almost Heat Cycle