“I don’t regret anything at all.”

Hanbin’s probably said that to a lot of people over and over again because it’s true and that he’s never regretted anything he did during the final battle. Although his team lost, it’s probably just a stepping stone to bigger world that’s meant for them. He’s still young anyway, barely passing 20, and he's got millions of opportunities out there.

He just needs to search deeper and explore further.

They’re given a two-day break after the show. At first, Hanbin doesn’t really see the need of that because just like Yoonhyung had said, they should just prepare for November’s evaluation. But as he and his team go back to their dormitory, no words are spoken and all six of them hit the bed early.

It was the best sleep they had for years.

During the break, Bobby, Donghyuk, Jinhwan, Yoonyung and Junhwae went somewhere and busied themselves with activities. But no one really knew what Hanbin did that time.

Which is what he wanted.

With Hayi’s mother’s permission, Hanbin goes home to visit his parents with Hayi, introduces her to them as his girlfriend and explains that they’re trying to keep their relationship a secret from the public. Skeptic at first, but eventually, Hanbin’s parents come to accept it. Hanbin’s old enough to decide for himself anyway.

“Are you okay?” Hayi asks one afternoon when they’re both babysitting his baby sister, Hanbyul, while his father is out to work and his mother’s grocery shopping.

Hanbin glances at her, confused. “Of course, why wouldn’t I be?”

She smiles. “Nothing.”

He pokes her arm. “What is it?”

“I just thought you’d be sad and all after, you know”—she gazes at him, her hand on Hanbyul—“the show.”

He offers a small smile. “Well, I was definitely sad that my team didn’t win but it’s not the end of the world. And besides, we’ll have more opportunities in the future. We’ll probably debut after four years, just as long as there are no member changes. I can’t imagine being in another team without Jinhwan hyung and the others.”

“Spoken like a true leader.”

“And you.”

“What me?”

“You’re not going to give up on us, are you? Like when things get rough and hard and difficult and I’d be frustrated and you’d be annoyed-… you won’t let go?” He looks at her, his eyes hopeful.

“Never.”

She doesn’t promise because promises are always meant to be broken, but the assurance in her tone is enough for Hanbin to believe in.

thanks for commenting, subscribing and upvoting!

i'd want to thank to lostbluebunny for commenting on almost every chap istg i'd want to thank everyone but like limited time bc im busy ;n;

thank you for supporting and reading! let's spread the b.hi love ok!!!