Archive of Our Own ^beta

Renjun and Chenle walked side by side, their footsteps in sync with the quiet hum of the city around them. It was late afternoon, and the campus buzz was starting to die down as students headed back to their dorms and apartments.

"I’ve got some tea," Chenle said, breaking the silence.

Renjun, ever calm and collected, gave a small shrug. "You always do," he replied, not even looking over. He wasn’t really the type to indulge in other people’s business, not out of disdain, but because he didn’t see the point. People’s curiosity was like a moth to a flame, irresistible but dangerous when you got too close. To him, gossip was just one of those flames people couldn’t help but flutter around.

"You’re no fun, you know that?" Chenle nudged him. "You don’t even know what I’m about to say!"

"Maybe because I mind my own business?" Renjun shot back with a slight smirk.

Chenle feigned offense, his lips curling into a pout. "Fine, I won’t tell you, then."

Renjun rolled his eyes. "Just spill it. I know you want to."

Chenle didn’t need more convincing. He leaned in a little, voice lowering as if sharing top-secret intel. "It’s about Lee Jeno."

Renjun sighed and mimicked the name under his breath, "Of course it’s about Lee Jeno." His tone was dry, like he’d heard that name a hundred times today alone.

Chenle gave him a mock glare. "Hey! It’s the Lee Jeno we’re talking about, not just any guy. He’s practically a campus celebrity!"

Renjun wouldn’t admit it aloud, but Chenle wasn’t exaggerating. Everyone knew Lee Jeno. The son of an assemblyman, a part-time model, and the ace of the baseball team, all while being a second-year engineering student like them. His life was always under a magnifying glass, the kind of person everyone couldn’t help but gossip about.

Renjun raised an eyebrow. "Alright, how big is the ‘Lee Jeno issue’ this time?" His voice held a teasing edge.

Chenle didn’t smile. "It’s bad, Renjun." His tone shifted, losing its playful edge. "He got into an accident. They’re saying he’s in critical condition... some people are even saying he’s—" Chenle hesitated. "Dead."

Renjun stopped dead in his tracks, the world around him suddenly feeling a little too still. His chest tightened, an odd, unfamiliar emotion swirling inside him. He swallowed hard, his hands trembling slightly. Lee Jeno? Critical condition? Dead?

He didn’t realize how much the news would shake him until now. The feelings he’d buried deep down, hidden beneath layers of indifference, clawed their way to the surface.

Renjun’s mind drifted back to the days when everything felt uncertain. He remembered the day his world had shifted, when his dad left him and his mom behind for another woman. Selfish. Cruel. His mother had packed up what was left of their lives and moved them to Korea for her job, trying to make a fresh start for the both of them. For Renjun, it wasn’t a fresh start—it was just the beginning of a new kind of loneliness.

When he started school in Korea, it was like landing on a different planet. He transferred in the 7th grade, and the kids didn’t like him. They made that much clear. His Korean wasn’t perfect, and for some reason, that made him a target. They laughed at him, talked behind his back, calling his pronunciation ridiculous. It didn’t make any sense to him. How could someone be hated for not speaking a language perfectly?

But the boys hated him for more than that. He didn’t fit their narrow image of masculinity—he wasn’t loud or aggressive. He didn’t join in their teasing or pick on the weaker kids. The girls were no better. They whispered about how it was unfair that he was prettier than them, and they made it sound like some crime. Renjun overheard their petty conversations and thought they were absurd.

Renjun sighed, staring at the empty space where his books should’ve been. Gone again. Stolen again. He knew the bullies had taken them, just another daily humiliation. He felt like giving up. Quitting sounded easy, giving in to the weight of it all seemed like a relief.

"Are you looking for these?" a voice suddenly asked. Renjun flinched at the sound, his heart jumping in his chest. He turned to find Jeno standing there, holding a stack of books in his hands.

Jeno.

Renjun froze, staring in surprise. He didn’t expect to see him—Lee Jeno, standing there like some kind of hero. He took in Jeno’s face for the first time up close. Strong, handsome features: blond hair that always seemed perfectly tousled, a sharp jawline, pointed nose. He had the kind of face that could make anyone stop in their tracks, and Renjun realized why everyone called him the school’s prince. And when Jeno smiled, though right now it was more of an awkward twitch of his lips, he reminded Renjun of a Samoyed dog, all warm and friendly.

Renjun opened his mouth to speak, but nothing came out. He got nervous around Jeno, even though they’d never really talked before. He wasn’t just some random student; he was the mayor’s son, and rumors swirled about his father running for assemblyman in the next election.

Everyone knew Jeno. The students admired him, and the teachers adored him. He was the kind of person who had everything going for him.

Jeno scratched the back of his head, looking a little sheepish. "I found your books on the ground," he said. "Was gonna ask around who they belonged to until I saw you standing here."

Renjun stared dumbly at him, still not fully processing the situation. They stood there for what felt like minutes, just looking at each other like something out of a drama. The moment stretched until Jeno finally broke the silence, awkwardly handing the books over.

Renjun accepted them with trembling hands, cursing himself internally for acting so weird. He probably thinks I’m so strange, Renjun thought, his cheeks burning. "Th-thanks," he muttered shyly, not even sure if Jeno heard him.

Jeno gave a small nod. "I’ll get going then." He turned to leave but stopped mid-step, looking back over his shoulder.

Renjun blinked, confused. "Not everyone here’s like... those kids," Jeno said quietly, his voice softer now. "It won’t happen again." And with that, Jeno walked away.

Renjun stared after him, realization dawning slowly. Jeno hadn’t found the books on the ground—he’d taken them from the bullies. And after that, no one dared to hide his books again. The mocking whispers faded, the cruelty in the hallways dulled. By the time Renjun graduated middle school, the bullying had died down completely.

But something else had started growing inside him after that day. An unknown emotion he hadn’t recognized back then, something that tugged at him whenever he saw Jeno from a distance. It wasn’t admiration, though part of him had admired Jeno for standing up for him when no one else had.It was something deeper, something he hadn’t dared put a name to.

Now, standing still with Chenle’s words echoing in his ears, Renjun blinked himself back to the present. The news about Jeno in critical condition, maybe even dead, it didn’t feel real. Once, like everyone else, he had admired Jeno, but now? Now he didn’t know how to feel. The boy who had once been larger than life seemed fragile, distant, as if the pedestal Renjun had placed him on was crumbling right before his eyes.

Renjun stumbled into his apartment, his mind still reeling from the news he’d just heard about Jeno. His heart felt heavy, and nothing around him seemed to make sense anymore. Jeno, in critical condition... maybe even dead? It haunted him as he fumbled with his keys, finally pushing the door open.

The moment he stepped inside, a voice broke the silence. "Finally, you're here."

Renjun froze, eyes wide as he turned toward the voice. There, lounging casually on his couch like he owned the place, was Jeno. He blinked rapidly, certain he had to be dreaming. How could this be happening?

Jeno stared at him, eyebrow raised, looking at Renjun as if he were the one who’d gone crazy. "What’s with you?"

Renjun opened his mouth but nothing came out. He just stood there, staring at Jeno, before suddenly blurting out, "JENO?!"

Jeno frowned, looking even more confused. "Uh, yeah?" He tilted his head, like Renjun had lost it. "Are you... okay?"

Renjun blinked again, shaking his head in disbelief. This can't be real. His mind spun, trying to catch up. "No, I’m not okay!" he nearly shouted, still panicked. "What are you doing in my apartment?"

Jeno leaned back casually, completely unbothered. "I was waiting for you. I don’t like leaving without saying goodbye to my hookups."

Renjun’s eyes nearly popped out of his head. "Hookups?" His voice cracked in disbelief. "Wait, WHAT?!"

Jeno frowned, now looking genuinely confused. "Didn't we...?" He paused, searching for the right word, then bluntly said, "Didn’t we have sex?"

Renjun’s face turned bright red. "NO!" he practically yelled. "We did not sleep together!"

Jeno blinked, scratching his head. "Oh... Are you sure?" he asked, sounding almost concerned.

"YES, I’m sure!" Renjun’s voice cracked again, his entire face burning with embarrassment. He was so flustered he could barely think straight. "And—could you please filter your words?!"

Jeno looked at him, an amused grin forming on his lips. "Filter my words?" he echoed, like Renjun had just said something ridiculous.

There was an awkward pause as Jeno stared at Renjun for an uncomfortably long time, eyes scanning him like he was trying to figure something out. Renjun, feeling the heat rise to his face again, shifted awkwardly.

Then Jeno fake coughed, breaking the silence. "So, if you're not one of my hookups," he began, smirking, "then what am i doing in your apartment? Because I honestly don’t remember what happened last night."

Renjun stared at him in utter confusion. "I don't know!" he blurted out, still trying to wrap his head around the situation. "And what do you mean you don’t remember? You’re supposed to be in the hospital! You’re in critical condition! Worse—there are rumors you... died."

Jeno’s eyes widened briefly before he gave Renjun a look that screamed, You’re crazy. "Died?" he repeated, now looking completely baffled. "Dude, what are you talking about?"

Renjun threw his hands up, exasperated. "That’s what I heard! I thought you were... I don’t know, dead or something!" The two of them stared at each other, caught in this absurd, impossible moment. Renjun’s heart was pounding, still trying to make sense of everything. How is this even happening?

Finally, he swallowed hard, trying to calm his jumbled thoughts. "Okay," he muttered to himself, "Let’s just... figure this out."

For almost an hour, Renjun and Jeno sat in awkward silence, both trying to make sense of what was happening. Renjun would glance at Jeno every now and then, still in disbelief, while Jeno sat with his arms crossed, deep in thought. Eventually, Jeno let out a long, frustrated sigh.

"So, you're sure about what you heard?" Jeno asked, breaking the silence.

Renjun nodded slowly. "Yeah... that's what everyone’s saying."

Jeno shook his head, clearly frustrated. "This doesn’t make any sense." He leaned forward, rubbing his temples. "I’m trying to remember last night, but it’s all a blur."

Renjun hesitated for a moment before suggesting, "Maybe you should call your friends?"

Jeno frowned. "I don’t have my phone for some reason. No idea where it is."

That only made everything seem more confusing. Jeno seemed to be racking his brain, trying to piece together the night before. "The last thing I remember is that we were racing. Maybe we had an afterparty afterward, we always do... probably drank too much. Woke up here and thought I’d crashed at someone's place after, you know... hooking up... and waited for you ‘cause, like I said, I don’t like leaving without saying goodbye to my hookups."

Renjun could only stare at him in disbelief. "You... just waited here?"

Jeno shrugged like it was the most normal thing in the world. "Yeah. Waking up in someone else’s apartment happens a lot."

Renjun’s face twisted into a mix of confusion and shock. Of course it does, he thought, almost incredulously. Jeno had quite the reputation on campus, known for sleeping around. He was that guy, the one everyone knew had a playboy streak, but people still flocked to him because, well... he was Jeno. Tall, built, with his strikingly handsome face, he was easily the hottest guy on campus. It didn't seem to matter that he had a habit of hooking up and disappearing the next day. People still threw themselves at him.

Jeno chuckled, noticing Renjun’s wide-eyed reaction. "What? Is that really so shocking?"

Renjun felt his cheeks flush again. He couldn’t keep up with how fast he was getting embarrassed today. "N-No... it’s just..." He cleared his throat and quickly suggested, "Maybe I should call my friend, Chenle. He’s the one who told me about... about the news."

Jeno raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, go ahead. Let’s hear what he has to say."

Renjun quickly dialed Chenle’s number, waiting nervously for him to pick up. When Chenle finally answered, his voice sounded a bit hesitant. "Renjun?"

"Chenle, listen," Renjun began, trying to keep calm. "Are you really sure about what you said earlier? About Jeno being in critical condition?"

There was a pause on the other end before Chenle sighed. "I know it’s hard to accept, but yeah... it’s true. I mean, everyone’s talking about it. He’s in the hospital... probably won’t make it."

Renjun’s throat tightened as he ended the call, exchanging a silent glance with Jeno. What in the world was going on? This didn’t make any sense. If Jeno was supposed to be in the hospital, possibly dying... then who, or what was sitting on his couch? A ghost? But Jeno didn’t look like a ghost at all. He looked completely human, solid, real. Renjun was more confused than ever.

They sat in silence for a moment, each lost in their thoughts. Renjun stared at Jeno, who seemed as tangible and alive as ever, his presence so overwhelming in the small apartment. If Jeno is supposed to be dead... then how is he here? It made no sense, but Renjun could feel Jeno’s existence right next to him. Jeno could touch things, move around. Ghosts don’t do that... do they?

Jeno suddenly sat up, looking like he had an idea. "Okay, let’s go to my apartment."

Renjun blinked, surprised. "W-What? Why?"

"Maybe if we go there, something will click. We’ll figure it out," Jeno said confidently. "I don’t know about you, but I’m not just gonna sit around waiting for answers to fall into my lap."

Renjun hesitated, not liking the idea at all. "I-I’m not sure about this..."

Jeno leaned in, his expression playful but determined. "Come on. It’ll be fine. Plus, you don’t want to stay here wondering forever, do you?"

Renjun bit his lip, feeling uneasy but realizing that Jeno was probably right. The confusion was too much to handle, and sitting around wasn’t helping. Reluctantly, he agreed. "Alright... let’s go."

Renjun and Jeno took a taxi to Jeno's apartment, the ride filled with an uncomfortable silence. As they passed through the busy streets, Renjun couldn’t help but notice the way people stared at him when he talked to Jeno. A couple walking by gave him strange looks, as if he were talking to himself. Even the taxi driver glanced at him through the rearview mirror, his eyes filled with curiosity and confusion whenever Renjun said something to Jeno. It made Renjun feel uneasy, but he kept quiet, not wanting to alarm Jeno or make things even weirder than they already were.

When they arrived at Jeno's apartment complex, Renjun’s eyes widened. The building was towering and sleek, tucked away in an area known for housing the rich and powerful. It was the kind of place that screamed money. Of course, Renjun thought, Jeno’s the assemblyman’s son. He should’ve expected this.

Jeno casually entered the passcode at the door, telling Renjun to remember it "just in case," before they stepped into the apartment. Renjun’s jaw nearly dropped when he saw the inside. The space was enormous, high ceilings with chandeliers that glittered like starlight, marble floors so polished you could see your reflection, and huge windows that offered a panoramic view of the city skyline. The living room alone was larger than Renjun's entire apartment, with plush furniture that looked expensive and barely used. The whole place had an air of luxury, the kind that felt cold yet undeniably impressive. Everything was in muted tones of cream, gold, and deep blue, like something out of an interior design magazine.

Renjun couldn’t help but feel out of place. Of course, he thought, Jeno would live somewhere like this.

Jeno tossed his jacket on the couch and stretched, already heading toward his bedroom. "Feel at home," he said over his shoulder, completely relaxed. "I’m gonna go change real quick."

Renjun just stood there awkwardly, his hands fidgeting at his sides as Jeno disappeared into the other room. The silence that followed felt suffocating like the apartment itself was swallowing him whole. Renjun sighed and glanced around, wondering if he’d made the right choice by coming here with Jeno. He still felt that something was off, that maybe this whole situation was much stranger than he could wrap his head around.

Trying to distract himself, Renjun walked over to a shelf filled with picture frames. There were photos of Jeno with his friends; Jaemin, Mark, Haechan, and Yeri. Renjun recognized them immediately. They were like Jeno, the campus elite. Jaemin, Jeno’s best friend, was an engineering student and a millionaire's son. Mark was a third-year architecture student who was also on the dance team. Renjun had heard about how crazy talented he is. Haechan, the theater club's rising star, was an art major. Another millionaires son. And then there was Yeri, the only girl in their group, a pre-med student and daughter of a famous celebrity. They were a powerful group, their presence on campus almost mythical.

Renjun stared at the photo longer than he should have, tracing the faces of Jeno’s friends. He didn’t know them personally, but they were hard to miss. They were that group, the kind everyone knew and envied. It was strange seeing Jeno with them, living such a different life from Renjun’s own.

He was still lost in his thoughts when Jeno suddenly reappeared, now wearing fresh clothes, a simple white shirt and sweats, but somehow looking even more striking in his casual outfit. Renjun jumped, nearly dropping the picture frame in his hands. He quickly set it back down, his heart racing in panic.

Jeno noticed and raised an eyebrow. "You alright?"

Renjun nodded a little too quickly. "Y-Yeah, I’m fine."

He glanced at Jeno again. Something felt off. Renjun had been trying to figure it out ever since the taxi ride. Why had people stared at him like that? Was Jeno really... there? But Jeno could touch things, right? He’d changed his clothes, and he’d opened doors. Ghosts can’t do that... right?

Jeno must have noticed Renjun staring because he suddenly smirked. "You know, you can take a picture if you want. It’ll last longer."

Renjun’s face flushed red instantly. "I-I wasn’t—!" he stuttered, completely embarrassed.

Jeno chuckled softly, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Cute," he mumbled, barely loud enough for Renjun to hear.

Renjun's eyes widened, his heart stuttering in his chest. Something inside him stirred, a confusing mix of emotions, like the fluttering of wings trapped in a cage. He couldn’t quite place it, whether it was the embarrassment, the strange charm Jeno had, or something else entirely. His mind was swirling.

For a moment, neither of them spoke, the room falling back into a tense silence. Renjun couldn’t stop thinking about the weirdness of it all. Should he just tell Jeno about the strange looks people had given him? About the driver’s odd glances? Something wasn’t right, but he wasn’t sure how to bring it up without sounding completely insane.

Finally, he sighed, his fingers curling and uncurling nervously. Should he just get it over with?

Renjun opened his mouth, ready to tell Jeno about the strange things he’d noticed, but before he could speak, Jeno raised a hand, cutting him off. “I’ll just call my friends with the telephone,” Jeno said casually, already walking toward the landline phone in the corner of the room.

Renjun nodded, swallowing his words. Maybe this will clear things up, he thought. Jeno picked up the phone and dialed. They waited, Renjun tapping his foot anxiously as the phone rang on the other end. But there was no answer. Jeno furrowed his brows and tried again, pressing the numbers slowly and carefully. Still nothing.

“That’s weird,” Jeno muttered under his breath. He handed the phone to Renjun. “Here, you try.”

Renjun took the phone and dialed the number for Jaemin. The ringing echoed through the speaker, and suddenly, the line connected. Renjun blinked in surprise and handed the phone back to Jeno. “It’s working now.”

Jeno took the phone with a confident smirk and greeted, “Jaemin, it’s me.”

There was a pause. Then Jaemin’s voice came through the line, but instead of responding to Jeno’s greeting, he sounded annoyed. “Hello? Who’s this? Why aren’t you talking?”

Jeno frowned, his voice louder now. “It’s me, Jeno. What are you talking about? I’m right here.”

But Jaemin didn’t respond. Instead, his voice grew more irritated. “Whoever is using Jeno’s phone, this isn’t funny. If you’re trying to mess with me, I swear I’ll find out who you are.”

“What the hell...?” Jeno whispered, his face growing pale. He leaned closer to the phone, speaking directly into the receiver. “Jaemin, it’s me. I’m standing right here.”

Jaemin’s voice on the other end grew sharp with anger. “You’re in Jeno’s apartment? Whoever you are, you better get out. I’m coming over there right now.”

And then, the line went dead.

Renjun and Jeno stood frozen, eyes wide with shock. Jeno slowly lowered the phone, his hand trembling slightly. Neither of them spoke for a moment, their minds racing to make sense of what had just happened.

Renjun blinked first, his voice shaky. “Did… did Jaemin just say he’s coming here?”

Jeno nodded slowly, his face still pale. “Yeah, and… and he couldn’t hear me. Like I wasn’t even there.”

Jeno was still staring at the phone, dumbfounded. "I don’t get it… why can't Jaemin hear me?" he mumbled, almost to himself.

Renjun snapped into action, his panic spiking. “We need to leave. Now.” He grabbed Jeno’s arm, trying to pull him towards the door. “Jaemin’s coming, and we can’t be here when he gets here.”

Jeno looked at him, clearly confused. “Wait, why? Shouldn’t we stay? Maybe Jaemin can help us figure this out.”

“No, we can’t stay!” Renjun said, shaking his head. His heart was racing hard.

“Why not?” Jeno’s frown deepened, still not understanding. “What’s going on?”

Renjun hesitated, before blurting, “Because Jaemin probably won’t even see you!”

That seemed to finally throw Jeno off. “What? What are you talking about? I’m standing right here. I’m talking to you.”

“I don’t know how to explain it!” Renjun was nearly breathless now. “But you’re supposed to be in the hospital—or worse, dead. You’re not supposed to be here! If Jaemin couldn’t hear you on the phone, what makes you think he’ll be able to see you when he walks in?”

Jeno stared at him, eyes narrowing in disbelief. “I’m right here. I’m not some ghost. This is insane.”

“Maybe it is, but I’m not waiting around to find out!” Renjun’s voice cracked with urgency. “You can stay if you want, but I’m leaving before Jaemin shows up and things get even weirder.”

Jeno still seemed reluctant, his brow furrowed in frustration. “I’m staying. I need to know what’s going on. If Jaemin’s coming here, then we’ll get answers.”

Renjun sighed, running a hand through his hair, torn between staying and leaving. “You do what you want,” he said, finally stepping toward the door. “But I can’t stick around. I don’t even know Jaemin, and if he finds me here with someone he can’t see… I’m not getting caught up in that.”

Jeno opened his mouth to say something but Renjun had already decided. As much as he felt bad to leave Jeno like this, something was seriously wrong, and he couldn’t stay to find out what.

“I’m sorry,” Renjun whispered, backing toward the door, guilt gnawing at him. “But I have to go.”

Without waiting for a response, Renjun turned and hurried out, heart heavy as he left Jeno behind.

Renjun had always been a believer in the supernatural. Ghosts, aliens, paranormal happenings, he’d entertained them all. Yet, as he lay on his bed staring at the ceiling, he couldn’t wrap his head around Jeno’s situation. The way he seemed to float between two worlds, both ghostly and human was bewildering. He felt a familiar twinge of guilt, remembering how he’d left Jeno alone in that big apartment. A day had passed since then, and not knowing what had truly happened gnawed at him.

What if he was wrong all along? What if Jeno wasn’t caught in some paranormal mess? Maybe everything that happened was just a figment of his imagination, or elaborate dream. Jeno had never come to his apartment, and perhaps he wasn’t in an accident. Maybe he was perfectly fine, laughing with his best friend, Jaemin and the rest of his elite friends.

Lost in these thoughts, Renjun jolted from his reverie by the sound of the doorbell. He hadn’t expected any visitors, so it's probably just Chenle, wanting to hang out or gossip. With a casual sigh, he opened the door, but the sight that greeted him made his heart drop.

Jeno stood there, looking disheveled and lost, wearing the same clothes from the day before. His hair was tousled, and dark circles under his eyes made him look even more vulnerable. Renjun’s breath caught in his throat. He didn’t know what to say.

“Hey,” he managed, stepping aside to let Jeno in. Jeno walked in silently, the atmosphere heavy. They moved toward the couch, but before they could sit down, Jeno suddenly grabbed Renjun’s wrist, his eyes wide and shimmering with unshed tears.

“I can touch you,” he murmured, almost to himself, his voice trembling. “Why can’t I touch Jaemin? Why can’t he see me?”he continues, confusion etched across his face.

Feeling an overwhelming surge of compassion, Renjun wrapped his arms around Jeno, pulling him close. It was like hugging a fragile bird, its wings trembling as it sought solace. “I don’t know, Jeno,” Renjun whispered, patting his back gently. “I wish I had answers for you.”

They stayed like that for a while, comforted in each other’s presence, before awkwardly pulling away. Renjun’s mind raced, searching for words to fill the silence. “So, um…” he began, his voice softer than usual. “Yesterday, I noticed you seemed… I don’t know, different. Like you weren’t entirely here, but you were still real to me.”

Jeno listened intently, nodding as Renjun recounted everything he observed, the way people can't seem to see Jeno and stared at Renjun like he lost his sanity, how Jaemin couldn’t hear him, and the unease that settled in the pit of Renjun’s stomach. They both sat on the couch, as they tried to process the strangeness of it all.

Renjun could see the mixture of confusion and fear etched on Jeno’s face, making it hard to ignore the worry swelling in his chest. “Are you really sure you were in an accident?” Renjun finally asked, searching for clarity in the whirlwind of emotions surrounding them.

“Yes,” Jeno replied softly, his gaze drifting as if he were staring through Renjun and into some distant memory. “When Jaemin came to my place yesterday, he cried looking at our photos and saying he wished I would wake up soon.” Jeno’s voice cracked slightly, revealing the fear he was trying to suppress. “I think I must really be in critical condition.”

A chill ran down Renjun’s spine as the implications of Jeno's words sank in. The reality of it was almost too much to bear. If Jeno was truly in a hospital somewhere, it confirmed his worst fears, that he might be a ghost, caught between life and death. “So you think… you might really be a ghost?” Renjun asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Jeno nodded, his expression lost in thought. “But then, how can I touch things? How can I touch you?” There was a hint of desperation in his voice, a longing for answers that felt just out of reach. "Maybe it’s because we have a connection?” he then suggested, his eyes lighting up with a glimmer of hope.

Renjun frowned, doubt creeping into his mind. “But we hardly know each other. How could that be?”

Jeno looked at him, a soft smile breaking through the confusion. “We do know each other. We were classmates in seventh grade and schoolmates all the way through College.”

Surprise washed over Renjun. “You remember me?” he asked, his heart racing.

“Of course,” Jeno replied, warmth spreading across his face. “I remember your full name. You're Huang Renjun. We’ve been in the same classes since seventh grade. We even share the same course and major now.”

Renjun blinked, disbelief washing over him. All those years, he had assumed Jeno didn’t know he existed, just another invisible student in a crowded classroom. While Jeno was the star of their school, always surrounded by friends and laughter, Renjun had felt like a ghost, lingering in the background, watching life unfold without ever really participating.

In his mind, he often compared himself to an extra in a novel, a mere blip in a world filled with main characters. Jeno was always the protagonist, bright and vibrant, living a life full of excitement and connection, while Renjun felt like a shadow—a nobody who didn’t belong.

“Why would you remember me?” Renjun asked, a mix of wonder and vulnerability in his voice.

“Because you were always there,” Jeno said softly, his eyes sincere. “Even if we never talked, you were part of my world.”

Renjun’s heart swelled at his words. It was surreal to think that Jeno had noticed him at all. He'd always thought how to Jeno, he must've been someone invisible, someone insignificant to be remembred. “I never thought… I didn't think someone like you would even notice someone like me.”

Jeno raised an eyebrow, confused. "What do you mean by someone like you and me?"

Renjun shrugged, trying to act casual despite the knot tightening in his stomach. "You know, like a nobody and a prince."

Jeno stared at him, his expression unreadable, leaving Renjun unsure of what he was thinking, then he Jeno shook his head. “You’re not just a nobody nor just a someone, Renjun. You’re you. And I remember you. We’ve shared space, classes, and experiences. Maybe it’s more than just coincidence that we’re here together now.” he said sincerely. 

Renjun changes the subject. “But if you’re really in a hospital, then… what happens to you? How do we make this work?”

“I don’t know,” Jeno admitted, his voice trembling with uncertainty. 

The urgency in Jeno's tone stirred something within Renjun, a determination to not let fear dictate their fate. Whatever this was, they would face it together.

“Then we’ll figure it out,” Renjun said firmly, feeling a spark of hope. “We’ll find a way to understand what’s happening to you.”

Jeno looked at him, a spark of gratitude shining in his eyes. They might be caught in a surreal circumstance, but at least they were in it together.

Renjun had always found solace in his quiet apartment, but ever since Jeno had moved in, his life had transformed into something both exhilarating and confusing. Their situation was surreal, but they were making the best of it. Each day brought new conversations, and as they navigated the uncertainty of Jeno’s predicament, their bond deepened.

One evening, after hours of fruitless internet searching for answers about Jeno’s condition, Renjun finally decided to take a leap of faith. He posted their dilemma on Reddit, half-expecting ridicule. Amd most of the comments confirmed his fears, with users mocking him for being drunk or insane. However, one reply caught his attention: “I know someone who can help. Here’s their contact.”

Curiosity piqued, Renjun quickly responded for more information. The commenter explained that the person she knew was Chinese but would be visiting Korea in a month. She promised to reach out once she arrived. That moment of hope felt like a small beacon in their otherwise uncertain situation.

Now, one week had passed since then, Jeno had been living with Renjun for a two weeks, and their cohabitation was surprisingly smooth, given the circumstances. Renjun was grateful for his solitude, which allowed them to bond without external pressures.

Over the week, they fell into a comfortable rhythm. Jeno, despite being a well-known figure, an assemblyman’s son, a model, and the ace of the baseball team—had become more than just an idol in Renjun’s eyes. He was a guy with his own quirks and vulnerabilities. They spent evenings studying together, and Renjun found himself appreciating Jeno’s sharp intellect and easy-going nature.

One night, as they studied, the topic of relationships surfaced. “So, have you ever actually dated anyone?” Jeno asked, his tone casual yet inquisitive.

Renjun looked up, slightly taken aback. “Not really, no. I’ve never even had my first kiss.”

Jeno’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, and then a smile spread across his face. “Wow, I figured you’d have at least one under your belt. But I guess you do come off as… innocent.”

“Don’t say that!” Renjun exclaimed, heat rising to his cheeks. He shifted uncomfortably, trying to hide his embarrassment. “I just… haven’t found the right person, I guess.”

Jeno chuckled, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “You know, I’ve had my fair share of relationships. Most don’t last long, but I’ve dated a lot. Yeri and I tried dating once too, but we just ended up being good friends.”

“Really? I thought you two were still together,” Renjun replied, intrigued by the casual way Jeno spoke about his past relationships.

“Rumors are funny like that,” Jeno said, shrugging. “Everyone’s always speculating. They want to know what it’s like to date the ‘perfect’ guy. But honestly, it’s just normal. The same drama, the same heartbreak.”

Renjun appreciated Jeno’s honesty, seeing the person behind the carefully crafted public persona. While Jeno was undeniably popular and charming, Renjun realized he was just another student navigating life, albeit with more attention.

“So, what about you?” Jeno prodded. “What do you want in a relationship?”

Renjun considered the question, his mind racing with thoughts he rarely articulated. “I want something real, I guess. Not just a fling, but someone who actually cares.”

Jeno’s gaze softened as he studied him. “You seem unbothered by all the noise around you. It’s kind of refreshing.”

Renjun shrugged, trying to downplay the compliment. “I’ve learned to focus on what matters to me"

He could feel Jeno’s eyes on him again, a heavy presence that made it hard to focus. He didn’t need to look up to know; the sensation was enough to send a shiver down his spine. Still, he kept his posture casual, flipping through the textbook as if nothing was amiss. But deep down, his chest tightened and something stirred in his stomach, a feeling he wasn’t sure how to name.

How long had it been since he’d last thought of Jeno like this? Since middle school, probably. Back when Renjun had admired him from a distance, not daring to speak about the fluttering in his chest whenever Jeno smiled at someone, anyone but him. It had been a silly, childish thing, something he’d buried deep inside. Or at least he thought he had.

“Renjun.”

His name left Jeno’s lips so softly, and Renjun finally dared to glance up. There was something in Jeno’s eyes, a quiet intensity that made his heart skip a beat. Renjun quickly looked away, pretending to scribble something in the margins of the paper. His hand felt clumsy.

Jeno’s voice came again, calm but firm. “You’re really amazing, you know that?”

Renjun froze. What? His fingers gripped the pencil a little too tightly, and he forced himself to shrug, keeping his expression neutral. “I just study a lot,” he mumbled, trying to dismiss it. But the way Jeno was looking at him made him feel like he was being seen in a way he wasn’t ready for.

Jeno shook his head lightly. “I didn’t mean because you’re smart.” There was a pause, his gaze lingering on him, as if he was about to elaborate, but he didn’t. He just let those words hang between them, which only confused Renjun.

The silence stretched again, and Renjun risked another glance. Jeno was still staring at him, a soft smile playing at the corners of his mouth, and something unreadable in his eyes. It wasn’t admiration or something as simple as that. No, this was deeper, more complicated. The gaze made his pulse quicken, as heat spread to his cheeks which he desperately tried to hide.

He swallowed hard, trying to sustain his voice. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Jeno smiled again, this time more tender, like he was letting him in on a secret. “I'm glad I woke up in your apartment,” he said quietly. “Not someone else’s.”

Renjun blinked, thrown by the statement. He hadn’t expected that, not after… whatever this moment was turning into. He tried to stay composed, to act like it didn’t affect him, but there was no denying the warmth blooming in his chest. It was impossible to ignore Jeno’s words, it made something stir within him, a feeling he hadn’t wanted to acknowledge.

Clearing his throat, he looked back down at the textbook, trying to regain some sense of normalcy. “Right. Well, we should probably finish this assignment.” His voice was a little too tight, but he was proud of how nonchalant he sounded.

“Yeah,” Jeno agreed, though the smile didn’t leave his face as he picked up his pen.

But as they continued the assignment, he couldn’t shake away the thought of how Jeno had looked at him—like there was something between them, something unspoken. And as much as he tried to ignore it, the churned in his stomach wouldn’t go away.

Days passed, and their friendship flourished in the space they shared. They played games, studied late into the night, and talked about everything and nothing. Each moment together deepened their bond, and Renjun found himself stealing glances at Jeno, who was oblivious to the quiet affection growing in Renjun’s heart.

On the night before their long-awaited contact was supposed to arrive, Renjun sat cross-legged on the floor of his room, his laptop perched on a low table, papers scattered around him. The soft hum of the air conditioner filled the space, a soothing backdrop to his thoughts. He was deeply engrossed in his assignment, his brow furrowed in concentration, fingers typing furiously. Being an engineering student means constantly balancing time between classes, projects, and assignments. For Renjun, it felt like the days blurred together in a haze of deadlines and diagrams.

Across from him, Jeno sat on the edge of the bed, a textbook open on his lap, occasionally glancing at Renjun, who was oblivious to his gaze.

Minutes ticked by, and Renjun remained absorbed in his task, focused and unaware of Jeno's steady gaze. Finally, sensing a shift in the atmosphere, Renjun looked up, startled to find Jeno staring intently at him.

“What’s wrong? Is there something on my face?” he asked, wiping his cheek instinctively, a hint of confusion crossing his features.

Jeno shook his head, a gentle smile spreading across his lips. “Nope, nothing at all,” he replied, his voice light, almost teasing.

Renjun raised an eyebrow, a mix of curiosity and skepticism flashing in his eyes. He turned his attention back to his assignment.

After a brief silence, Jeno suddenly broke it, his voice softer now. “You know, Renjun, you’re really pretty.”

Renjun’s head snapped up, his heart racing at the unexpected compliment. “What?” he stammered, feeling his cheeks heat up. The words echoed in his mind, and he couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth flooding through him.

Jeno simply stared back, his gaze unwavering, his expression serious yet soft. Renjun felt like there's are butterflies in his stomach, and he looked away, trying to compose himself.

“Have you ever thought about kissing someone?” Jeno asked, his voice barely above a whisper, his eyes dropping to Renjun’s lips for a fleeting moment before returning to meet his gaze.

The question hung in the air, sending a jolt through Renjun. He had never considered kissing someone before. Dating had always seemed like a distant thought, something he didn’t particularly care for.

Renjun bit his lip, trying to gather his thoughts. “Not really,” he finally admitted, his voice quiet. “I’ve never… It wasn’t a big deal to me.”

Jeno’s expression shifted slightly. “Oh.”

Renjun’s gaze fell to the floor, Jeno’s question lingering in his mind. “Why…” he started, his voice wavering as he glanced back up, catching Jeno’s eyes again. “did you ask?”

A small smile crept onto Jeno’s face, “I just had that thought just now. "

Renjun's mind went blank for a moment , completely caught off guard by Jeno’s words. Did he really just say that? His heart was racing so hard in his chest it almost hurt.

Jeno had always been this untouchable figure, someone who barely seemed to notice guys like him. The campus heartthrob everyone liked, always surrounded by people who wanted to be close to him—dating, hooking up, it wasn’t unusual to hear rumors about him. In fact he hears a lot. Renjun tried not to think too much about those stories, though sometimes, late at night, he’d catch himself wondering. Wondering what it would be like to hold Jeno’s hand, to kiss him like those people did. But he always shoved those thoughts aside, buried it at the back of his head.

Yet here was Jeno, closing the space between them like none of that mattered. Renjun’s breath hitched as Jeno’s hand came up, his fingers barely brushing against Renjun’s face. His touch was light, hesitant, as though he was waiting for Renjun to pull away. But Renjun didn’t. He couldn’t. His skin tingled under Jeno’s touch, his body suddenly aware of every small detail—Jeno’s warm breath, and the closeness of their bodies.

Jeno’s eyes searched his, a silent question. "Is this okay?" he asked softly, voice so low it almost disappeared between them. Renjun didn’t trust his voice to work, so he nodded, just barely, the movement small but enough to tell Jeno yes. Yes, this was okay. More than okay.

When Jeno leaned in, Renjun’s heart stopped for a moment. The kiss was soft, tentative, like they were both testing the waters. It wasn’t anything like Renjun had imagined—no overwhelming rush, no fireworks, just a quiet warmth spreading through him, like a slow, gentle wave pulling him under. It felt like everything around them faded, and it was just them, here, in this perfect moment.

A fluttering feeling stirred in Renjun's stomach, like butterflies, light and uncontrollable. His heart swelled, and the longer the kiss went on, the more he felt like he was floating. His mind was a blur of sensation. Jeno's hand still on his face, the warmth of their bodies so close together, the softness of Jeno's lips. This was his first kiss, and he never imagined it would feel like this—like something inside him had been unlocked, a door he never even knew existed.

Jeno pulled back slightly, just enough so their foreheads brushed together, but his hand still cupped Renjun’s face. Renjun stared at him, unsure of what to say, his thoughts jumbled and swirling like the fluttering butterflies in his chest. He had never, in his wildest dreams, thought this would happen. And yet, here he was, with Jeno, who felt so much more real than any daydream could ever be.

Renjun and Jeno stepped into the dim room, the air heavy with a strange tension. The man sitting before them, Kun, didn’t look like the type who dabbled in paranormal matters. He looked normal, ordinary even, but his eyes held an intensity that unnerved Renjun.

At first, neither he nor Jeno wanted to believe any of this. Ghosts, spirits—it was ridiculous. But when Kun’s gaze fixed on Jeno and he said, “I can see you, but I can’t touch you,” everything shifted. Renjun’s breath caught. He saw Jeno’s expression change too, confusion, uncertainty, but mixed with a small glimmer of hope.

“He is in a liminal state,” Kun began, “He’s caught between life and death. His consciousness is still active, but his body… it’s like he’s trapped in another form. One that can’t interact with the physical world the way he used to.”

Renjun glanced at Jeno, who looked back at him, eyes wide, but they stayed silent, waiting for Kun to continue.

“He’s what we call an Emotional Echo,” Kun said. “A spirit that still has a strong connection to the living world. But that connection is fragile.”

“How is he able to touch things then?” Renjun finally asked, his voice sounding smaller than he wanted it to.

“Or Renjun?” Jeno added, frowning.

Kun paused, considering his words carefully. “That’s because of your bond. Emotional Echos draw strength from the emotions of the living, especially from someone they had a deep connection with—grief, love, longing. Those emotions give the Echo power.”

Renjun stiffened at the mention of love. His heart pounded, memories of last night flashing in his mind, the kiss they shared, the one neither of them had talked about since. It hadn’t felt real. Maybe because it wasn’t supposed to be. His face grew warm, and for a moment, he couldn’t even look at Jeno.

A heavy silence hung in the room. Jeno shifted beside him, glancing nervously at Renjun before breaking the silence. “So… how do we fix this? How do I… get back?”

Kun folded his hands, his expression unreadable. “You need to find out your body’s condition. What caused the accident might hold the key to bringing you back, but your body… it could already be deteriorating. You don’t have much time.”

Renjun’s chest tightened. The gravity of the situation settled in, and suddenly, the room felt much colder. He looked at Jeno, whose face was clouded with worry, and for the first time, Renjun saw the fear in his eyes.

They had to go to the hospital. They had to figure out what happened. But as Renjun stood there, heart racing, he couldn’t shake the memory of that kiss, and what it meant for them now.

Renjun stepped out of Kun's room, a heavy weight settled in his chest. Everything felt surreal, like a fog clouding his mind. He walked beside Jeno, and for a moment, they didn’t say anything, just letting the silence stretch between them.

Finally, Jeno broke the silence. “We should go to the hospital to check on my body,” he said, with a hint of uncertainty in his eyes.

Renjun nodded, but then a thought struck him, and he hesitated. “Uh, Jeno…” He stopped and turned to look at him. “I can’t visit you in the hospital.”

Jeno raised an eyebrow, confusion washing over his face. “Why not? Is something wrong?”

Renjun took a deep breath, unsure how to explain. “I mean, we don’t really know each other. If your family or friends are there, they’ll wonder why I’m visiting you. It would be… weird.”

Jeno paused, contemplating Renjun's words. After a moment, he replied, “It’ll be fine. Trust me.”

Renjun shook his head. “I can’t just show up. It doesn’t feel right.”

Jeno shrugged. “My family might not even be there. If there’s someone, it could just be friends. You could always make up some excuse, like you got the wrong room or something.”

Renjun noticed the way Jeno's tone shifted at the mention of his family. It was subtle, but there was a hint of sadness in his eyes. He hesitated again, weighing his options. “Okay, I guess that makes sense,” he finally said, reluctantly agreeing.

But then another realization hit him. “Wait, we don't even know which hospital you’re at.” He pulled out his phone, his heart racing. “I’ll call Chenle. He might know.”

Dialing his friend's number, Renjun listened to the ringing until Chenle picked up, his voice sulky. “What do you want, Renjun? You only remember me when you need something.”

“I’ve been busy!” Renjun shot back, trying to defend himself. “I promise I’ll keep in touch soon.”

Chenle let out a dramatic sigh. “Fine, what do you need?"

“I need to know the hospital, Jeno was admitted to,” Renjun said, trying to keep his voice casual.

Chenle snort. "But you were never interested in him before." he said with a teasing tone.

Renjun scrambled for the right word “It’s.... ,”

Chenle snickered on the other end. “Aw my cutie Renjunnie! I already knew you have a crush on him.”

Renjun felt heat rise to his cheeks, thankful that Jeno couldn’t hear Chenle’s teasing. “No I didn't! Just tell me where it is!”

“Alright, alright,” Chenle laughed. “It’s easy to find out where he is. Jeno’s basically a celebrity on campus. His accident is all confidential and stuff cause you know... he’s the assemblyman’s son, but people still managed to find out which hospital he’s in. A lot of folks are visiting him.”

Jeno is really loved by many. “Thanks, Chenle,” he said, feeling a mix of emotions.

“Don’t mention it,” Chenle replied, still chuckling. “Just remember to hang out with me after this.”

Renjun hung up, taking a moment to breathe. They had a hospital to find.

They rode a taxi together except Jeno is basically riding for free. On the way to the hospital, Renjun thought about Jeno and the countless people who cared for him. It was like watching a brilliant star in the night sky—everyone gravitated towards its light, drawn in by its warmth and brilliance, even if some wondered about the fleeting nature of its glow.

Jeno had a reputation for being a casanova, known for dating and sleeping around, yet that didn’t seem to deter people from flocking to him. Instead, it was almost as if they were captivated by the thrill of the chase, each one hoping to be the next to bask in his charm. But what struck Renjun was how, despite the whispers about Jeno’s romantic escapades, people still spoke of him fondly. They cherished the memories they shared, each relationship ending on good terms, with no hard feelings lingering.

And Renjun understood why people loved Jeno so much. Beneath the allure of his charming smile and magnetic personality was a genuinely nice guy. He'd heard a lot of good things about Jeno from other people and he'd experience it himself for a month now, and even back in middle school. Jeno had an easygoing nature that made everyone feel at ease. He listened, laughed, and connected with people in a way that left them feeling valued. Even those who didn’t end up with him walked away with fond memories, never uttering a single bad word about him.

It was both comforting and painful to know that Jeno was so loved. Even in his absence, his presence lingered in the hearts of many, like the gentle glow of a star that continued to shine brightly, even when unseen. Renjun felt a mix of hope and dread, wishing he could join the ranks of those who cherished Jeno while grappling with the fear that he might never get the chance to tell him how much he truly meant to him.

Renjun and Jeno approached the hospital entrance, a wave of anxiety washed over Renjun. The sterile smell of antiseptic filled the air, mixing with the faint sound of beeping machines and hushed conversations. It felt overwhelming.

He spotted a nurse at the front desk and walked over, taking a deep breath to gather himself. “Excuse me,” he said, trying to keep his voice steady. “Can you tell me where Jeno’s room is?”

The nurse looked up from her paperwork, and her face lit up with a warm smile. “Are you another friend of his?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with kindness.

Renjun nodded. Glancing at Jeno beside him, subtly. “Yes, I am.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful! Jeno seems to be such a nice boy,” she said, her tone filled with genuine affection. “He gets so many visitors wishing him well. It warms my heart to see how many people care about him. I really hope he wakes up soon.”

“Me too,” Renjun replied, his heart heavy as he processed her words. He watched her expression soften with hope before she gave him directions to Jeno’s room. As he turned to leave, he felt a mix of gratitude and sadness, wishing he could do more to help Jeno.

Renjun made his way down the hallway. He glanced at Jeno from time to time, searching for some sign of emotion on his face, but he found only uncertainty mirrored in Jeno’s eyes. It felt like they were trapped in a dream, suspended between reality and the unknown.

When they arrived at Jeno’s room, a heavy silence greeted them. Renjun pushed the door open and stepped inside. The sight before him stole his breath away. Jeno lay on the hospital bed, surrounded by machines that beeped softly, the pale blue lights casting an otherworldly glow around him. He looked so peaceful, as if he were simply asleep, yet the tubes and wires connected to him were a stark reminder of the reality they faced.

Renjun felt his heart ache at the sight. Everything felt surreal, as if he were caught in a moment that didn’t belong to him. He stepped closer, the reality of Jeno’s condition sinking in. It was hard to think the vibrant, charming person he knew was the still figure in the bed.

He glanced at Jeno beside him, searching for some sign of how he felt about being here, but Jeno’s expression remained unreadable. A swirl of emotions churned within him. He wanted to reach out, to touch Jeno and tell him that everything would be okay, but he felt frozen in place.

The room felt too quiet, and Renjun swallowed hard, trying to make sense of it all. How could this be happening? Jeno had always seemed so full of life, and now he lay there, looking so vulnerable. Renjun wished he could shake off the despair that Jeno must've been feeling now. But he couldn't, all he could do was stand there, a silent witness to the fragile line between life and death, that Jeno is in state right now, feeling utterly lost.

Just as Renjun was about to speak to Jeno, the door swung open, and Jaemin walked in. Instantly, both Renjun and Jeno froze, panic flickering between them. Renjun felt his heart race as Jaemin’s surprised gaze landed on him.

“Renjun?” Jaemin’s voice was filled with disbelief. He looked taken aback, as if he hadn’t expected to see Renjun, of all people to be there. Despite the rush of panic coursing through him, Renjun tried to compose himself.

“Um, I think I got the wrong room,” Renjun said, trying to keep his voice calm even as tension coiled in his stomach.

Jaemin stared at him, a look of recognition crossing his face which made confusion flooded Renjun’s mind. How did Jaemin know him? He wasn’t imagining it; Jaemin had called his name.

“What are you doing here?” Jaemin asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and surprise.

Renjun felt panic bubbling up again, but he quickly masked it with a calm facade. “I was visiting a relative,” he said, crafting an excuse on the spot. “But as I was saying, I think I ended up in the wrong room.”

“Oh,” Jaemin replied, nodding as if he believed Renjun's story, or maybe not, he isn't sure. Jaemin's face was blank afterall.

He shifted awkwardly, unsure of what to do next. Then he remembered that he needed to find out what had caused Jeno’s accident. He hesitated for a moment, confusion swirling in his mind but decided to fuck it all and asked Jaemin.“What happened..... to him?” He gestured toward Jeno, who lay on the bed, still and silent.

Jaemin’s expression shifted. “You know him?” 

“Not really,” Renjun lied, forcing a smile. He glanced at Jeno standing beside Jaemin, staring at his friend, and Renjun sensed the sadness in his gaze. “I think I’ve seen him around before.” 

Jaemin nods in understanding then, he looked at Jeno sadly, laying peacefully on the bed, and the room fell silent. Renjun glanced back at Jeno again, who also seemed to share in Jaemin’s sorrow. A heavy weight settled in his chest.

Finally, Jaemin broke the silence. “Jeno got into an accident while we were car racing,” he said quietly, his voice laced with a sadness that made Renjun’s heart ache. He didn’t elaborate, but that single line was enough to information of what they need to know.

Renjun nodded slowly, “Okay,” he said, hesitating as he prepared to leave. “I should go then.”

But before he could take a step back, Jaemin reached out and grabbed his hand. Renjun blinked, confusion flooding him as he looked at Jaemin.

Jaemin was striking, with sharp but soft features that gave him an almost ethereal quality. His pink hair framed his face perfectly, accentuating his pointed nose and high cheekbones. His eyes were beautiful, captivating in a way that made them seem to hold secrets of their own, like pools of warmth that could light up even the darkest of days. He was just as popular as Jeno, often the center of gossip, and Renjun had heard more than a few stories about him from Chenle who had a crush on him.

“Is there something wrong?” Renjun asked, still puzzled.

Jaemin let go of Renjun’s hand, scratching his head in a bemused manner. “I know this is awkward, but… could you come back? Maybe visit Jeno again? Talk to him or something?” His voice was hesitant, almost shy, as if he were unsure how he would react.

Renjun didn’t know what to say. The request caught him off guard, and he felt a mix of confusion and empathy. “Um… I guess I can,” he finally replied, hesitating again as he weighed the implications.

Jaemin’s face brightened with a smile that lit up the room. “That would make him so happy,” he said, his relief evident. “Thank you.”

Renjun nodded, still grappling with the situation as he backed away from the room. He glanced at Jeno who trailed silently behind him. His face was stoic. This must be hard for him more than anyone.

Renjun and Jeno returned to Renjun's apartment after their visit to the hospital. They sat in silence on the couch, the weight of everything hanging heavily between them. Renjun stared at the floor, his thoughts still swirling from what had happened back in Jeno’s hospital room.

Breaking the silence, Renjun finally spoke. “I didn’t know Jaemin would recognize me.” His voice was quiet, as if he was speaking more to himself than to Jeno.

Jeno didn’t respond right away, remaining silent beside him. When he finally spoke, it was almost a whisper, “Of course Jaemin would know you…”

Renjun furrowed his brow, unable to catch what Jeno said. “What did you say?”

But Jeno didn’t repeat himself. Instead, he shifted slightly and changed the topic. “Why did you agree to visit the hospital?” he asked, his tone calm but with a trace of curiosity.

Renjun shrugged, not entirely sure of the answer himself. “I don’t know... I guess because we need to find out more about what happened. It’s the only way we’ll learn anything about the accident.”

Jeno nodded slowly but didn’t press the conversation further. The silence deepened, stretching on as they both fell into their own thoughts.

Renjun found his mind racing. He had so many questions; about Jeno, about everything that had happened so far. It had been surprising enough that Jeno knew him, but now even Jaemin did? Why? How? The pieces weren’t fitting together, and the more he thought about it, the more uneasy he felt.

Albeit, he already had an idea of what the answer might be, but he didn’t want to believe it. What if he was wrong? What if he was right? The uncertainty twisted in his chest, leaving him in turmoil.

Renjun stepped into the dimly lit hospital room, his gaze immediately landing on Jeno’s still body lying in the bed. He had told spirit Jeno or whatever he's called, not to come with him this time, fearing that his presence would only distract him. When he entered, he noticed Jaemin seated beside Jeno, looking weary but managing a warm smile as he greeted Renjun.

Renjun nodded back and walked over, taking the seat next to Jaemin. Together, they sat in hush, simply watching the rise and fall of Jeno's chest, the sound of the machines a quiet rhythm in the background. Renjun’s eyes softened as he took in Jeno’s peaceful face, the reality of it settling heavier in his chest each time he visited.

After a long stretch of silence, Renjun hesitated, then asked softly, “Where is Jeno’s family?”

Jaemin’s smile faded, his expression growing tense as he glanced down at his hands. There was a pause before he spoke, as if he was carefully choosing his words. “Jeno… doesn’t really get along with them,” he said finally, voice barely above a whisper.

They both fell into hush again. 

After a moment, Jaemin broke the silence. “I’m glad you came back,” he murmured, his gaze still on Jeno’s face.

Renjun looked at him curiously, his brows furrowing. “Can I ask why you wanted me to visit Jeno?” he asked. “I mean… we don’t even really know each other.”

Jaemin’s lips curved into a small smile, though his eyes held a hint of something deeper. “Jeno… he knows you well,” he replied, his voice laced with a gentle sadness.

Renjun stared at him, utterly confused. “What… what do you mean?” Renjun asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Jaemin looked away, his gaze drifting to Jeno’s face. He sighed, his expression growing somber. “It’s not really for me to say,” he said, hesitating, as though debating whether to continue.

Renjun’s confusion only grew as he stared at Jaemin, who looked back at him, eyes filled with an open, almost gentle honesty. “Jeno… he talked about you. A lot, actually,” Jaemin admitted, his voice soft. “Ever since we became friends in high school.”

Renjun felt his chest tighten. Jeno talked about him? And often enough that Jaemin would bring it up? He struggled to make sense of it, what could Jeno possibly have seen in him that was worth mentioning over and over?

Jaemin seemed to pick up on his confusion and offered a small, reassuring smile. “He’d bring you up every chance he get. Honestly, it got kinda annoying,” Jaemin chuckled, glancing over at Jeno with a fond expression. “He’d notice the smallest things about you and stare at you whenever you were around… he really admired you.”

Renjun’s heart pounded. Somewhere, he’d already had an idea, but he hadn’t really expected it. This was Jeno, after all, the guy everyone admired, the one who seemed to live a completely different life from him. Someone so out of his reach. It felt impossible to believe. 

But here Jaemin was, telling him things that made it seem like he was the one out of Jeno’s reach.

“I… I don’t get it,” Renjun stammered. “I’m just a nobody. Why would Jeno… why would he even care?”

Jaemin’s thoughtful gaze settled on him, and he sighed. “You might see yourself that way, but it was the other way around with him, Renjun. Every time he talked about you, he had this look… like you were something really special to him. I’d tell him to just go talk to you already, but he’d refuse. To him, you were…” Jaemin hesitated, then continued, “…someone out of his league.”

Renjun fell silent, taking it all in. It felt unreal to hear this from Jaemin. How could it be that Jeno, the Jeno he had admired from afar before thought of him that way?

Jaemin gave him a serious look. “That’s why I asked you to come back and talk to him. He’s been through a lot already, and now with this… I just thought that maybe, if he heard from someone who meant a lot to him, it might help. Maybe it’ll give him a reason to wake up.”

Renjun could hear the pain in Jaemin’s voice, and he rested a comforting hand on his shoulder. “He’ll wake up,” he said, even though he wasn’t sure he believed it himself.

Jaemin patted his hand and managed a small smile. “Thank you.” Renjun smiled back and then turned to Jeno, lying motionless on the bed. There was this calmness on Jeno’s face, even in his slumber and Renjun felt this pull to reach out, to make that connection Jaemin had told him about. Slowly, he took Jeno’s hand in his own.

Jaemin noticed but just smiled again and nodded. “Thank you,” he repeated softly, and Renjun gave a quiet nod in return.

But inside, Renjun’s mind was whirling. Everything he’d just learned from Jaemin was sitting heavy in his chest. Jeno had noticed him. Admired him. All this time, he’d thought he was invisible to Jeno, someone who could never measure up to the same level. But he’d been wrong about that because he’d meant more to Jeno than he had ever imagined. The thought filled him with an indescribable warmth, mixed with an ache that he couldn’t quite place.

Renjun got back to his apartment after the hospital visit, feeling like his head was spinning. Inside, he spotted Jeno sitting quietly, staring off into space so intensely that he didn’t even notice when Renjun walked in. Renjun went over and tapped him lightly on the shoulder, and Jeno’s gaze finally snapped to him.

“Oh, hey,” Jeno mumbled, looking a little flustered. “So, uh… how’d it go with Jaemin?”

“It went well,” Renjun said, trying to keep his tone calm. “Jaemin was… really nice.”

Jeno just nodded, lips pressed together like he was thinking hard about something. After a moment, he finally asked, hesistantly, “Did he… mention anything else?”

Renjun felt his heart speed up a little. He thought back to everything Jaemin had said, the way he’d described Jeno’s feelings, and for a second, he considered telling Jeno. But instead, he just shook his head. “Not really.”

Jeno gave him a look, one that said he wasn’t totally convinced, but he didn’t push it. Instead, he just nodded. “Right… okay,” he said, then paused. “Actually, we should go see Kun. Now.”

Renjun frowned, confused. “Why so soon? Kun said we need to find out more about your accident first.”

Jeno hesitated. After a beat, he looked away, almost like he was embarrassed. “I… already know what happened,” he finally admitted.

Renjun blinked, surprised. “What do you mean, you already know?” Without thinking, he reached out to take Jeno’s hand—but his fingers went straight through, like he was touching air. Shocked, he tried again, but the same thing happened. Jeno looked at him, wide-eyed, both of them staring in silence as the realization sank in.

“Let’s go,” Renjun said urgently, pushing his questions aside. They had to see Kun—right now.

They arrived at Kun’s place, and Kun greeted them with a raised eyebrow, looking especially at Jeno. “You’re already fading? I didn’t expect it to be this soon,” he said, sounding worried but somehow calm, like he’d already seen this coming.

Renjun’s chest tightened. “What… what does that mean?”

“Calm down, Renjun,” Kun said, giving him a reassuring look. Just then, Renjun felt a familiar hand in his, and when he looked down, Jeno was holding his hand. He could touch him again. Kun watched them with an unreadable expression, his gaze flicking between the two of them as though he was trying to figure something out.

“Did you learn anything about the accident?” Kun asked.

Renjun quickly filled him in on everything they’d learned—Jeno’s accident, his current condition in the hospital. Kun nodded along, but when Renjun mentioned the “accident,” Kun looked at Jeno with a doubtful expression.

“Are you sure it was just an accident?” Kun asked, giving Jeno a long, hard look, almost like he already knew the answer.

Jeno hesitated, his gaze shifting downward. Then he sighed. “No… it wasn’t,” he said quietly. Renjun stared at him, stunned, but Jeno gave his hand a comforting squeeze, as if to say he was okay.

Kun waited, letting Jeno continue at his own pace. After a long pause, Jeno explained, “My parents are getting divorced. I got into a huge argument with them right before I went out that night.” He swallowed, his voice dropping. “When I was racing, I… I had this feeling like… maybe it would be easier if I just… let go.”

Renjun’s heart dropped. He felt like someone had pulled the ground out from under him. Without thinking, he gripped Jeno’s hand even tighter, refusing to let go. The thought of Jeno feeling so hopeless, of wanting to end things that way, sent a wave of emotions crashing over him, leaving him speechless.

Kun gave a slow, understanding nod, looking like he’d finally pieced things together. He sat them down, looking from Jeno to Renjun before starting.

“Jeno, what you’re dealing with is called an ‘emotional echo' as i'd mention already. You are a spirit that’s sort of caught between two places. When people make a drastic choice that leads them into a coma, they don’t always fully leave the living world. Instead, they’re stuck, especially if there’s something or… someone they still care about, something that matters to them a lot.” His eyes drifted to Renjun, almost like he was implying something, but he didn’t say it directly.

Renjun felt a chill run down his spine. He glanced at Jeno, who was just listening, jaw clenched, like he didn’t know what to make of all this either. Kun went on, “Jeno, you’ve got to let go of whatever anger, sadness, or guilt you’re holding on to. That's the only way for you to come back to life. Otherwise, you’ll keep fading.”

Renjun noticed Jeno’s hand flickering again, there one second, then nearly transparent. His stomach dropped, and he clenched his fists, feeling utterly helpless. Kun noticed the look on Renjun’s face and held his gaze. “And Renjun,” Kun said carefully, “you might be the only one who can help him.”

“What… what do you mean?” Renjun asked, feeling his heart start to race.

Kun gave him a look, like he was waiting for something to click. “I think you already know what I mean, don’t you?”

Renjun bit his lip, his pulse thudding in his ears. Part of him had an idea, but admitting it made him feel like he was getting in over his head. Kun just nodded, watching him closely. “There’s nothing more I can do for either of you,” Kun said. “It’s up to you now.” he said one last time.

Renjun and Jeno thanked him, feeling a mix of gratitude and nerves as they headed toward the door. As they were leaving, Kun suddenly called out, “Renjun, wait.”

Renjun stopped, and Jeno kept going outside, not noticing he wasn’t being followed. Renjun turned back, confused. Kun stepped closer, his expression softer, almost apologetic. “Listen, if Jeno does wake up from this… you should know something.” Kun hesitated, and his voice grew quieter, almost gentle. “If he wakes up, Renjun… he won’t remember you.”

Renjun felt his stomach drop, like he’d been hit with a bucket of ice-cold water. “What?” he whispered, barely able to find his voice.

Kun looked at him, something sad in his eyes. “The memories of the person that mattered the most tied to this… echo, as I called it… they’re like a price that’s paid if someone returns to life. Jeno won’t remember any of this, including you.”

Renjun just stood there, frozen, feeling like his heart had been ripped in two. Kun placed a hand on his shoulder. “Remember, Renjun, no matter how rough things get, life shouldn’t be taken lightly. Jeno’s getting a chance here, but with that chance comes consequences.”

Renjun nodded numbly, barely able to look Kun in the eye. “Thank you… for everything,” he mumbled before heading out the door, his mind spinning.

Jeno was waiting outside, leaning against the wall, looking like he was about to ask what had taken him so long. Renjun forced a smile, but he could barely keep it steady.

They walked back to the apartment in silence. Renjun couldn’t touch Jeno anymore, and his mind was a mess, replaying Kun’s words over and over. How was he supposed to help Jeno now, knowing that even if he succeeded, Jeno would forget he ever existed?

Renjun glanced over at Jeno, taking in his familiar face, the way his mouth would twitch when he was thinking hard, the softness in his eyes when he looked back at Renjun. He felt his heart ache, knowing that any memory they made together now was just… temporary. Jeno noticed him staring and raised an eyebrow, smirking a little.

“What’s wrong, Renjun? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” 

Renjun laughed, but it sounded hollow. “Maybe I have,” he said, keeping his voice light, though his heart was anything but that.

When Renjun and Jeno finally got back to Renjun’s apartment, they both stayed quiet for a while. It was like neither of them knew where to start. But then, out of nowhere, Jeno broke the silence.

“My parents… they’ve never had a good relationship,” he began, staring down at his hands. “They’ve been like that since I was a kid. It’s always been fights, arguments. Every single day, really. They didn’t marry for love. It was all about politics, business. That’s all it’s ever been for them.”

Renjun stayed silent, listening, letting Jeno talk it out. He couldn’t help but feel a pang in his chest as he pictured a young Jeno trying to navigate a household like that.

“When I was a kid, every time they’d start yelling, I’d just hide in my room. I’d sit there, covering my ears, hoping it would stop.” Jeno’s voice was quieter now, almost as if he were talking to himself. “But it didn’t. I could still hear them screaming at each other. And sometimes, it was even worse—things would break, glass shattering, doors slamming.”

Renjun’s heart twisted. He could just imagine it—Jeno, a little kid, alone in his room, terrified, with no one to comfort him. It felt wrong, cruel. Nobody should have to go through that. And yet, here Jeno was, sitting across from him, admitting things that sounded so painful.

Jeno took a deep breath. “It… messed me up. I was so scared back then. But as I got older, I just learned to tune it out. I tried to ignore it. I figured, if I didn’t react, maybe it wouldn’t hurt so much.”

Renjun couldn’t stand it. He wanted to reach out, take Jeno’s hand, do something to let him know he wasn’t alone. He tried, but his hand passed through, like he’d expected. All he could do was look at Jeno, trying to show him with his expression that he was there for him, that he was listening. Jeno seemed to felt it because he kept talking.

“The worst part?” Jeno went on, bitterness creeping into his voice. “They both have… other people. Affairs. They’ve been cheating on each other for years. They each have whole other lives, even kids with other people. And they still refuse to get a divorce, because my dad’s all about his image as an assemblyman. And my mom… she just loves her luxury too much to give it up.”

Renjun’s stomach turned. He didn’t even know what to say to that. “And you knew all of this?” he finally asked.

Jeno nodded. “Yeah. I found out a not too long before my accident. I tried to tell them to just get divorced, get it over with, but they wouldn’t hear it. We’d fight about it, and sometimes… sometimes they’d even blame me for everything.”

Renjun felt a pang of anger and sadness mix together. It was unfair, so incredibly unfair. In some ways, he understood what Jeno had gone through. His own father had left him and his mom for another woman. But his mom… she’d been there for him. She was his rock, always supportive, always caring. Jeno didn’t even have that. It sounded like his mother didn’t care about him at all.

He tried again to reach out, wanting to comfort Jeno somehow, but his hand slipped right through. So he just watched, eyes soft, hoping Jeno could see he wasn’t alone in this.

Jeno looked back at him, managing a small smile. “That’s actually why I admire you, Renjun.”

Renjun blinked, surprised. “what?” That was the last thing he expected to hear.

Jeno’s smile grew a little, though it was shy. “I knew about your dad. I heard kids talking about it back in 7th grade.” Jeno scratched the back of his neck, almost embarrassed. “I’d always hear them gossiping about you. I saw how people treated you, how you got picked on just because you were… well, you. But you never let it get to you. You just kept going, acting like it didn’t bother you, like you were above all of it. I thought… I thought maybe you were going through something even worse than me, and you were handling it a lot better.”

Renjun’s heart thudded in his chest. He hadn’t known Jeno saw all of that, let alone cared enough to understand. It suddenly made sense, that day in middle school when Jeno had stepped in and stopped those kids from bullying him. He’d always wondered why Jeno had helped him out, especially when they barely knew each other back then.

“So… you stopped them from bullying me didn't you?” Renjun asked, his voice soft.

Jeno looked down, a bit shy, and nodded. “Yeah. I just thought… it was the least I could do. I couldn’t fix everything, but if I could make it a little easier for you, then… why not?”

Renjun felt tears prickling at the corners of his eyes. He bit his lip, trying to keep them in. Jeno had been carrying his own burdens all along, yet he’d still found it in himself to look out for him. And now here they were, both stuck in some strange limbo, facing their pasts together.

Jeno glanced up, noticed the look on Renjun’s face, and let out a quiet laugh. “Don’t look at me like that. It’s not a big deal.”

“It is,” Renjun whispered, voice shaking a little. He took a deep breath, trying to keep his voice steady. "I like you, Jeno," he finally confessed, feeling his cheeks heat up. It was terrifying and exhilarating all at once, like stepping off a cliff with no idea what waited at the bottom.

Jeno’s eyes went wide, his expression unreadable, and for a moment, Renjun’s heart sank. But Jeno didn’t pull away. Instead, he just whispered, "Renjun…" as though he were testing the word, or maybe the feeling itself.

Seeing the shock and confusion on Jeno’s face, Renjun tried to lighten things up. “I mean… I’ve liked you since middle school,” he added, a tiny, embarrassed laugh slipping out. “But I thought you didn’t even know I existed.”

For a moment, Jeno just stared, and then he actually laughed—a real, full-bodied laugh that took both of them by surprise. Renjun’s embarrassment faded, and he found himself laughing too. Jeno shook his head, grinning.

“God, I'm an idiot,” Jeno said, voice warm and soft. Renjun nodded, grinning back.

“we're both idiots,” Renjun agreed, feeling something ease in his chest, like a weight lifting.

Then, without thinking, Jeno reached out and grabbed Renjun’s hand. He could touch him again and Renjun is confused of how does this work. The warmth of Jeno’s fingers wrapped around his own made Renjun freeze, his breath catching. Jeno looked down at their joined hands, as if he couldn’t quite believe it himself. “I guess Kun was right—there’s some kind of… connection between us.”

Jeno’s expression softened, and he looked at Renjun in a way that made his heart race. “And I think.... I finally understand what that connection is.” Love.

There was a long silence before Jeno began to speak again, his voice low and rough with emotion. He shared how he’d argued with his dad just before the accident. His dad had wanted to send him abroad, now that he’d finally decided to go through with divorcing Jeno’s mom. When Jeno refused, his father had slapped him, something Jeno never thought would happen, and the shock of it was something he still hadn’t shaken. “My mom just… shrugged it off,” he murmured. “She said I should’ve just done what he wanted.” His face twisted in a painful smile. “Like none of it even mattered.”

Renjun’s throat tightened, and he instinctively gripped Jeno’s hand tighter. Jeno’s voice softened, turning distant as he explained how he’d gone racing that night, desperate to escape his frustration, the emptiness of his family. “I just wanted everything to go away for a while,” Jeno admitted, voice barely more than a whisper. “I remember thinking… if it all just ended, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad.”

Renjun’s chest felt painfully tight again, and he swallowed, his own emotions brimming to the surface. Jeno looked at him, his expression softer now. “But when I… I thought of you, Renjun,” he said, eyes meeting his. “I thought about how you wouldn’t handle things like this. And somehow, you were the last thing I thought of before it all went dark.”

Renjun’s eyes filled with tears without him realizing it, the tears slipping down his face. Jeno reached out and gently wiped one away, his fingers brushing Renjun’s cheek with such tenderness it nearly undid him.

“Don’t cry, please.” Jeno whispered, his voice shaking. “It hurts seeing you cry.”

Renjun tried to smile through his tears, but it was hard when he could feel his heart breaking for Jeno. Pulling him close, Renjun wrapped his arms around him, feeling Jeno cling to him in return. They held each other tightly, as though neither wanted to let go.

Jeno’s voice came out muffled against Renjun’s shoulder. “I always watched you from afar, you know. My friends used to call me hopeless,” he said, with a weak laugh. He pulled back, rubbing at his eyes. “I dated and hooked up a lot thinking whatever I feel about you would disappear with it. But I woke up in your apartment and I became aware of my weird situation and thought this might be my last chance." He paused, as if thinking the right word to use. "To be honest, I didn’t think I deserved to get close to you, so I never tried... because my life is so messed up and I didn’t want to drag you into it.”

Renjun’s heart ached, and he reached out, gently cupping Jeno’s face. “Don’t say that. You’re an amazing person, Jeno,” he murmured, his voice choked with emotion. “That’s why people care about you… that’s why I care about you.”

Jeno’s expression softened, his eyes bright with something raw and vulnerable. “Renjun…” he whispered, barely getting the word out. “Can I… can I kiss you again?”

Renjun didn’t bother with words. Instead, he leaned forward, closing the gap between them, his lips pressing against Jeno’s in a kiss that was hesitant at first, tender and slow, like they were both afraid of breaking something fragile. Jeno’s lips moved against his, warm and soft, and for a moment, everything else faded away—the doubts, the fears, everything except this moment.

The kiss deepened, grew more urgent as they held onto each other like a lifeline. Jeno’s hands slid around Renjun’s back, pulling him closer, and Renjun could feel his heartbeat racing, could feel the warmth of Jeno’s body against his when he's supposed to be an entity that is not human, nor a ghost. But right now, he felt very human.

They stumbled back, barely noticing when they fell onto the bed, their movements instinctive as they lost themselves in each other. Renjun’s fingers traced the lines of Jeno’s face, committing every detail to memory, the softness of his skin, the warmth of his breath, the way he whispers Renjun's name before kisses.

Renjun's mind spun but all he knew was that he wanted this. Every kiss, every touch felt like it belonged to them alone, like this was something they'd waited for their whole lives. And in that moment, even if he knew that everything would fade, even if Jeno wont remember him after this, and even if this was only they had, he'd hold onto this memory forever. 

When Renjun opened his eyes the next morning, Jeno was gone. 

He reached out, his fingers brushing the empty space where Jeno had been. It felt cold, and a chill ran through him as he stared at the empty spot beside him, the reality of Jeno’s absence hitting him all at once.

He sat up slowly, heart pounding as he looked around the room, half-expecting Jeno to reappear. But he was gone. No note, no lingering warmth. Just silence.

Renjun’s chest tightened, a sinking feeling building inside him. The events of last night felt like a dream—a beautiful, perfect dream. But now, in the light of day, it felt as though Jeno had been ripped away, leaving nothing behind but a hollow ache. 

Renjun felt his vision blur as tears began to well up, spilling down his cheeks. He tried to wipe them away, but they kept coming, faster than he could keep up with. His shoulders shook as he buried his face in his hands, feeling his whole body wrack with the force of his sobs.

The emptiness, the loneliness, it all felt unbearable. He thought about the way Jeno had held him, the way he’d looked at him like he was the only person that mattered. It had been real, Renjun knew that. He had felt every second of it, had given Jeno everything he had. But now he was left with nothing but a fading memory, and it hurt more than he could bear.

Renjun's heart felt like it was breaking, each sob coming from a place deep within him that he hadn’t even known was there. His tears soaked the sheets as he clutched them tightly, trying to hold onto something solid, something to ground him. But it all felt so empty without Jeno.

The minutes felt like hours as he sat there, his sobs filling the quiet room. He didn’t try to stop himself; he couldn’t even if he wanted to. The pain was too much. And the more he thought about it, the harder he cried, the ache in his chest spreading through his whole body until he was left feeling raw and empty.

Renjun finally curled up on the bed, hugging his knees to his chest as he cried, his entire world feeling like it was crumbling around him.

Jeno is gone and he will never remember Renjun.

Jeno finally woke up. Renjun heard from Chenle, and his chest tightened at the news. A wave of relief washed over him, but somehow it felt like there was a thorn stuck right in his heart. He was happy, he truly was, but there was this prickling, aching sensation, and he couldn’t keep the tears from falling. Renjun cried so hard he thought he’d never stop.

For the next week, he couldn’t seem to keep it together. Every time the reality sank in, he’d break down again. It was as if all the emotions he’d bottled up with Jeno were pouring out at once, and he couldn’t hold back.

Chenle was there, just like he always was, sitting with him, bringing him tissues, even just letting Renjun lean on him. When Chenle first saw Renjun’s reaction, he had asked gently, “Renjun, what’s wrong? Why are you so…sad?” But Renjun couldn’t even begin to explain. If he told Chenle what happened between him and Jeno, Chenle would just think he’d lost his mind. It all sounded so unreal, even to him. He’d laugh it off if anyone else told him a story like this, so what was he supposed to say? So he didn't told Chenle and Chenle never asked again. He just comforted him, until Renjun felt better.

Chenle’s roommate, Jisung, even joined them sometimes, sitting quietly beside Renjun. Jisung had always been on the quieter side, and Renjun had just assumed he was shy or maybe just indifferent. They hadn’t spent much time together, only when Chenle brought him along to eat or hang out, and Jisung rarely said much. But here he was now, sticking around without asking questions or making Renjun feel awkward. Renjun hadn’t known Jisung could be so caring, and in a weird way, it made him feel like he’d gained a friend during one of the hardest times in his life.

But even with Chenle and Jisung by his side, everything still felt hard to accept. Renjun had spent an entire month with Jeno, and it was like his mind kept replaying those days on an endless loop. Sometimes he’d start to think maybe it wasn’t real at all, that he’d just imagined everything. But then he’d look around his apartment, and there were traces of Jeno everywhere. It could be something as simple as a chair Jeno had seat on, or even just a corner of the room where they’d spent time together, and the memories would rush back. And once again, he’d find himself crying.

A month had passed since Jeno had woken up, and slowly, Renjun’s tears started to dry up. He didn’t go visit Jeno in the hospital; he knew he couldn’t handle it. Of course, Jeno didn’t come to him either, becuase Jeno didn’t remember him.

Renjun hadn’t really “moved on.” He’d just come to terms with things. This was his reality now. The only thing keeping him going was knowing Jeno was alive and had a future waiting for him. A second chance he deserves so much. That, and the small ring he’d found tucked away in his drawer two weeks after Jeno woke up. It was Jeno’s. Renjun didn’t know when Jeno had left it there, but somehow, it felt like a parting gift. Now, even if Jeno never remembered, Renjun had something solid, something to hold onto besides the memories only he could recall.

Renjun also stopped going to the one class he and Jeno shared. It was the only way he knew to protect himself. Part of him wanted to see Jeno, just to reassure himself that he was really okay. But the thought of looking at Jeno and seeing absolutely no recognition in his eyes? Renjun didn’t think he’d be able to stand it. Not now, anyway. Maybe in the future, when he was stronger, he’d be able to look at Jeno and not feel his heart breaking all over again.

Renjun was making his way down the hall, keeping to himself, when he suddenly heard someone call his name. He turned to see Jaemin waving him over, and, standing beside him, were Mark and Haechan. Renjun’s heart skipped a beat. He knew who they were even without introductions—Jaemin’s friends, and of course, part of Jeno’s close circle. The thought made him hesitate for a second, but he took a breath and walked over, thankful Jeno wasn’t there too.

Jaemin’s face lit up with his usual friendly grin. “Hey, Renjun!” he greeted, sounding genuinely happy to see him. “You heard, right? Jeno finally woke up.”

Renjun’s heart twisted, but he managed a nod and forced a small smile. “Yeah… I heard. Everyone’s been talking about it.” It was harder to say it out loud than he thought. Jaemin didn’t seem to notice and just chuckled in response.

Just then, Haechan cleared his throat dramatically, and both Renjun and Jaemin looked over to see him watching them with a raised eyebrow. Jaemin laughed and quickly introduced Renjun to Mark and Haechan, though Renjun already knew exactly who they were.

After looking Renjun up and down, Haechan leaned toward Jaemin with a curious grin. “Wait… that Renjun?”

Jaemin nodded, his smile widening a bit as he looked back at Renjun. “Yep, that Renjun.”

Renjun frowned and glanced between them,  he was about to talk when Jaemin turned back to him with a look of concern.

“By the way,” Jaemin said, “I noticed you haven’t been coming to our class lately. Everything okay?”

Renjun shifted, suddenly feeling like he was under a spotlight. He hadn’t really planned for this conversation, but he forced himself to keep his tone casual. “Oh, yeah. I’ve just… been busy with other classes,” he replied, trying to sound nonchalant. “It’s just a minor subject, so I might end up dropping it anyway.”

For a moment, Jaemin looked like he wanted to say something, his face softening with a bit of sadness, but before he could, Mark’s gaze zeroed in on something around Renjun’s neck.

“Wait… Is that Jeno’s ring?” Mark asked, squinting as he leaned in, eyeing the silver ring hanging on the chain around Renjun’s neck.

Renjun froze, feeling a wave of panic rise up as both Jaemin and Haechan followed Mark’s gaze, their expressions shifting from surprise to recognition.

Haechan’s eyes went wide with interest as he gave Renjun a sly grin. “Well, well… that’s definitely Jeno’s ring. Isn’t it, Jaemin?”

Renjun could feel his pulse racing, his mind scrambling for an explanation. He had no idea what to say, and the intensity of their stares only made things worse. Before he could stammer out a response, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He glanced down and saw a message from Chenle, and it felt like a lifeline.

“Uh, sorry, I… I really have to go,” Renjun stammered, gripping his phone like it was some kind of safety rope. “My friend’s waiting for me.”

Without waiting for a response, he turned on his heel, practically darting down the hallway. His heart was still pounding, the weight of the ring around his neck feeling heavier than ever as he left them behind, feeling as if he’d just barely escaped.

Jeno’s eyelids felt heavy, weighted down by layers of fog as he struggled to open them. Dim lights overhead blurred in his vision, and a sterile, antiseptic smell filled his nose. The soft, rhythmic beeping nearby grounded him, faintly comforting but also somehow distant. Everything about this place felt both familiar and alien, like he’d drifted through some endless dream only to be jolted awake.

As he finally focused, the first person he saw was Jaemin. His best friend’s face was a mess of emotions—relief, exhaustion, and pure joy blending together in his teary eyes. It was like seeing sunlight break through a storm.

“You’re awake,” Jaemin whispered, laughing softly even as he choked up, throwing his arms around Jeno in a tight, desperate hug. Jeno felt the warm weight of Jaemin’s embrace and slowly, cautiously, hugged back, his body sore and oddly foreign. Everything felt distant, like he was re-learning how to exist in his own skin.

“What… happened?” Jeno’s voice rasped, sounding strange in his own ears. His throat felt raw, as if it hadn’t been used in ages.

Jaemin pulled back, his expression softening, though worry lingered in his gaze. “You’ve been in a coma, Jeno. For a month.” He managed a shaky smile, then wiped at his face before quickly calling for the doctor.

Within minutes, the room filled with the familiar faces of his friends; Mark, Haechan, even Yeri, all of them hugging him with a desperate, almost fragile relief. It was overwhelming. He hadn’t realized, hadn’t really felt, just how much they all cared for him, how close he’d come to slipping away from them forever.

The doctor conducted a series of tests, checking his cognitive responses, and then offered a gentle smile. “It’s remarkable you’re awake, Mr. Lee. Some might even call it a miracle.”

Jeno nodded absently, but a nagging feeling tugged at him. Despite the warmth of his friends, despite the comfort of their laughter and the steady presence of people who cared about him, he felt hollow—like he’d woken up with a piece of himself missing. He couldn’t shake this vague emptiness, a quiet ache echoing inside him.

His mind flickered to thoughts of his parents, but he dismissed it just as quickly. It wasn’t about them; he’d let go of any expectations of them, oddly, during those quiet, hazy days he was asleep. His life mattered more to the people who actually showed up for him, and he found peace in that, a strange clarity. He felt foolish for almost throwing away his life over people who wouldn’t even grieve for his death.

But still, this lingering emptiness persisted.

Then, Jaemin said something that snapped him back. “You know, we’re all grateful. I think Renjun’s visit might’ve helped you wake up. You regained consciousness just after he came to see you.”

The name “Renjun” echoed strangely in Jeno’s mind, like a bell ringing in a cavern, the sound fading into the distance but leaving a faint, haunting echo behind. “Renjun?” he asked, furrowing his brow. “Who… who’s that?”

Jaemin, Mark, Haechan, and Yeri all looked at each other, stunned. Haechan was the first to speak up. “You… you don’t remember Renjun?”

The confusion deepened, and Jeno shook his head, feeling almost embarrassed. “No… I don’t think I know anyone by that name.”

They all exchanged glances, their surprise quickly morphing into disbelief. “Are you joking?” Mark asked, raising an eyebrow, concern flaring in his eyes.

“I’m serious,” Jeno replied, glancing at them one by one. “I don’t know any Renjun.”

Jaemin’s expression softened with something like pity. “Jeno… Renjun wasn’t just anyone to you.” He paused, choosing his words carefully. “He was… you had feelings for him.”

Jeno blinked, utterly baffled. “Feelings? me?”

Haechan nodded, almost as if he couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “He's like your greatest crush.”

Mark crossed his arms as he seriously said, “I don't think it was just a crush to be honest. I mean, no one holds onto a crush that long, right?”

Yeri nodded. “I’d call it something stronger, honestly.”

Jeno stared at them, feeling like the world had tilted sideways. “Wait, me? A crush? On… this Renjun person?”

All four of them answered at once. “Yes.”

Jeno blinked at them, still completely baffled. He didn’t remember ever having a crush on someone named Renjun. He didn't even know someone name Renjun. And he definitely didn’t remember feeling anything like what they were describing. “You guys are messing with me, right?” he asked, looking from one to the other.

Haechan shook his head, a bit of a sad smile playing on his lips. “Nope. You were totally into him.”

Yeri took over, listing off names of people Jeno had dated, all of them exes he vaguely remembered. “You remember them all…” she trailed off, raising an eyebrow. “But not Renjun?”

His friends watched him expectantly, like they were waiting for some spark of recognition, but nothing clicked. He honestly couldn’t remember Renjun at all. The name was just… blank.

Jeno shook his head, bewildered. “You’re all making it sound like he was important to me… but I honestly don’t remember him. Not even a little bit.” The more he insisted, the deeper the frowns of concern on his friends’ faces became. The room seemed to close in, each of their looks pressing on him. "And... maybe he wasn’t as important as you guys think,” Jeno continues, shrugging like it didn’t matter.

But even as he said it, a strange pang tightened in his chest, an ache that felt too deep to ignore. His friends watched him with sad, understanding smiles, their laughter fading as they shifted to lighter topics. He joined in, forcing himself to keep up with their conversation, yet every laugh felt hollow. The emptiness inside him refused to go away, lingering with every mention of the name Renjun.

Jeno was finally back at school after two weeks in the hospital. To him, it felt like an eternity, and honestly, he’d been itching to leave days ago. But because his dad is the assemblyman, the doctors had insisted on extra “precautions.” It was another one of those “perks” of his dad’s job—an overdone concern that Jeno didn’t even want.

Thinking of his dad, though, brought a strange mix of emotions. His dad, and his mom, too, had actually visited him. Jeno hadn’t expected much; they hadn’t even come the day he first woke up, so he’d braced himself for them not showing up at all. But they did, eventually, sitting beside him in an awkward silence that felt almost surreal. And when his dad finally spoke, there was an apology—a real apology.

It was hard to believe at first, and Jeno didn’t want to feel much about it, but hearing it did lift something heavy off his chest. He wasn’t naive enough to think it would fix everything. His parents were still headed for divorce, still off building their own family without him. But it didn’t sting as much as it used to. He’d started to accept it. They didn’t really want to act like a family, and Jeno didn't think he could be family with them too, not after all the things they did.... so maybe that was for the best.

There was one thing his dad said, though, that did make Jeno feel some real relief: his dad wasn’t going to push him to study abroad anymore. He’d dropped the whole idea completely. Out of everything, that was the one thing that made Jeno feel genuinely happy.

Walking back into school, Jeno felt like he was entering a dream. Almost every face he passed lit up in recognition—smiles, waves, voices calling his name, people he barely knew. It was overwhelming. He hadn’t expected so many people to care, hadn’t realized how many had actually come to visit him in the hospital with flowers, cards, even small gifts. Now, he felt like he’d returned as some kind of hero, as if he’d survived something far more grand than a car accident. Part of him wanted to retreat from it, to avoid the spotlight that felt so strange and unnatural. But he thought this wasn't so bad.

As they walked into class, Jaemin kept glancing around, scanning the room as if he was on the lookout for someone. Jeno noticed after a while and leaned over. “Who are you looking for?” he asked, curious.

Jaemin hesitated, as if debating something, then replied quietly, “Renjun.”

There it was again—that name, striking a chord deep within him, a chord he couldn’t tune out. Renjun. It rolled through his mind, awakening something almost visceral, a distant yearning. He didn’t know why, but he wanted to see him, to look into his eyes, to find out what he was missing.

But as the days went by, he realized he wouldn’t get that chance, because despite sharing a class with Renjun, he never appeared. Jaemin was as baffled as he was, and though Jeno tried to brush it off, the curiosity gnawed at him. It felt like chasing after a ghost.

Jeno walked over to his group’s usual spot in the cafeteria whenever they felt like eating there, acknowledging the countless greetings and waves that came his way. It felt overwhelming, but he did his best to keep up with each nod and smile. By the time he reached the table, he noticed Yeri sitting alone, casually scrolling through her phone. She looked up, a hint of a smile breaking across her face as she put the phone away.

"Where’s everyone else?" he asked, dropping his bag onto the seat with a sigh.

"They’ll be here soon," Yeri replied, leaning forward. They fell into easy conversation, chatting about random things, laughing over some of the wild gossip floating around the school. Despite his effort to stay engaged, Jeno's fingers kept drifting to his ring finger, brushing over the empty spot. The absence of his ring was like an ache he couldn’t ignore, and he knew Yeri noticed.

“Still no luck finding it?” she asked, her voice soft with understanding as she gave him a sympathetic look.

He let out a slow sigh, shaking his head. “No. I’ve searched everywhere since I got out of the hospital. It’s just… gone. I’m starting to think I might’ve lost it in the accident.”

The ring had been his grandmother’s last gift to him. The grandmother whom he'd considered the only family to him before she passed away three years ago. The ring was a priceless piece of her he’d carried with him everywhere. It wasn’t just jewelry—it was the last real connection he had to her. Losing it now felt like losing her all over again.

Before he could linger in that feeling, Haechan, Jaemin, and Mark showed up together, dropping into their seats with exaggerated groans, like they’d just run a marathon.

“Jeno!” Haechan greeted with his usual energy, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Great news!”

Jeno raised an eyebrow, immediately suspicious. “Uh-huh… what’s up?”

Before Haechan could continue, Mark cut him off, his tone unusually calm. “We found your ring.”

Jeno’s eyes widened and Haechan let out an exaggerated groan, rolling his eyes. “Dude, way to steal my thunder!”

But Jeno ignored him, turning straight to Mark, barely able to contain his shock. “Where?”

Jaemin leaned in with a curious smile. “We saw it on Renjun.”

Renjun. That name again. The name that every time he hears, feels like a strange ripple through his chest that left him breathless. He’d heard that name so many times lately, each time stirring something he couldn’t quite place. It was confusing, this feeling, this sudden pull he didn’t want to acknowledge. And now… Renjun had his ring?

“Why would he… how does he have my ring?” Jeno asked, looking around at his friends as if they were all in on some joke he didn’t understand.

Haechan shrugged, all too casual. “Beats me, but if he has it, maybe you gave it to him?”

Jeno frowned, shaking his head. “Why would I give something that important to him?”

Yeri chimed in, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “True. You can’t even talk to him, remember? Ah.. but you don't remember.”

Jeno felt a rush of heat flood his cheeks. “What are you even talking about?” He tried to sound annoyed, dismissive, but the way his friends exchanged knowing looks only made him more flustered.

Haechan just laughed, nudging him with a teasing grin. “She’s got a point. It’s true.” Mark and Jaemin nodded in agreement, like it was a fact they’d all silently accepted.

Jeno stared at them in disbelief, feeling equal parts embarrassed and irritated. “You guys are making me sound like… like I’m some kind of fool for that Renjun guy,” he muttered, trying to brush it off. But inside, he couldn’t deny the strange, twisting feeling in his chest—something between curiosity and… something he wasn’t ready to name.

Then Haechan’s face lit up, and he motioned toward the glass wall outside the cafeteria. “Speaking of…”

They all turned to look, and Jeno’s gaze landed on a small, almost delicate figure standing near the entrance. That must be Renjun. He stood there, looking lost in thought, a soft, almost ethereal expression on his face that made Jeno’s heart skip a beat. He couldn’t look away. Something about the guy held him in place, as if time itself had slowed down.

“Is that Renjun?” Yeri asked, sounding intrigued.

Haechan nodded with a smirk. “The one and only.”

Yeri tilted her head, observing Renjun for a moment. “So that’s Renjun… He’s—”

“Pretty?” Haechan chimed in, grinning. “Told you, Jeno’s got impeccable taste.”

Yeri shrugged, her eyes thoughtful. “I was going to say cute, but yeah, pretty works too.”

Jeno barely registered their words. His entire focus was on Renjun, who stood there, waiting for someone with a faint look of anticipation in his eyes. His friends were right. Renjun was both pretty and cute, a combination that somehow felt mesmerizing. His heart raced, his mind swirling with questions he didn’t dare ask out loud.

Jaemin chuckled, giving him a playful nudge. “Look at him. Doesn’t remember Renjun at all, but he’s still smitten.”

Jeno snapped out of his trance, scowling. “I’m not.”

His friends just laughed, clearly not convinced. And as much as he wanted to argue, he knew they were hitting a nerve. He didn’t understand why he felt so drawn to Renjun, why his chest felt tight whenever he heard his name or saw him from a distance. But denying it felt like a lie, one that left him feeling unsettled.

Then he saw it. Renjun’s face lit up with a small, genuine smile as a ridiculously tall, baby-faced guy approached him. So that was who he was waiting for. They exchanged a few words, and Renjun’s smile brightened, but for some reason, it didn't look like it reached his eyes. Jeno’s heart clenched. He doesn't know why.

Mark suddenly spoke up. “Wait, Renjun knows Jisung?”

Everyone turned to look at him in surprise, and Mark raised a brow. “My dance team saw a video of Jisung dancing. The kid’s insanely good, so they tried recruiting him. But he refused.”

“Oh… so he’s a good dancer,” Haechan mused, glancing back outside. Then he shot a mischievous look at Jeno. “Wonder what his connection is to Renjun?” Without missing a beat, he added, “What if he’s Renjun’s boyfriend?”

Jeno felt a sudden, irrational wave of irritation and scowled, refusing to give Haechan the satisfaction of a reaction. He told himself it wasn’t his business, that he shouldn’t care. But somehow, the idea of Renjun with someone else, even as a friend, made his chest tighten.

The conversation drifted, and Jeno let out a silent breath of relief, grateful they’d moved on. Yet, his thoughts kept circling back to Renjun. He didn’t understand it—why this one person stirred up feelings he wasn’t sure he wanted to face.

But one thing was certain. He was going to talk to Renjun, not because he was interested in him or anything like that. He just wanted his ring back.

At least, that’s what he told himself.

Renjun sat alone on the bench, earbuds in, trying to let the music distract him as he waited for Chenle and Jisung. But then a shadow fell over him, and when he looked up, his heart practically stopped.

Jeno. He was standing right in front of him, looking effortlessly polished in a black dress shirt and dark jeans that looked expensive, even to Renjun’s eye. Everything about Jeno was put together in a way that felt worlds apart from Renjun’s current state. His hair was styled perfectly, his expression unreadable, like someone who belonged on a magazine cover, not here in front of him. For a moment, Renjun couldn’t breathe, his heart twisting with hope—and then, almost immediately, with pain.

“Are you… Renjun?” Jeno asked, his voice so casual, like he was talking to a stranger.

Renjun’s chest ached, and he tried to keep his face steady, though the sting of rejection was hard to hide. He doesn’t remember me. He doesn’t remember anything. That thought alone made his stomach drop, but he forced himself to nod, trying to swallow back the lump in his throat. “Yeah… that’s me.” His voice came out quieter than he’d intended. “Did you… need something?”

Jeno’s eyes flickered, glancing down toward Renjun’s neck, before they came back up to meet his. And suddenly, Renjun knew why he was here. His heart sank, dropping like a stone. Of course. The ring. His friends must have told Jeno they’d seen Renjun wearing it.

That tiny piece of Jeno that Renjun had been holding onto, clinging to as a reminder of everything he thought they shared… And now Jeno was here to take it back. It hurt more than he’d expected, the ache twisting in his chest like it was digging in, rooting itself deeper. Somehow, he managed to keep his voice steady as he asked, “You want… the ring, right?”

Jeno’s face flickered with a hint of surprise, and he nodded, almost hesitantly. “Yeah. I don't know how you got it, but It’s… really important to me.”

Renjun felt his heart crack a little more. The urge to tell Jeno the truth bubbled up inside him, that Jeno had been the one who’d left it with him, the one who’d trusted him with it. But what good would it do? To Jeno, he was a stranger. There was no shared history, no connection—at least not anymore.

Swallowing back his emotions, Renjun reached up, his hands trembling, and unclasped the chain around his neck. The ring felt heavier than it ever had before as he held it in his hand. After a second, he extended it to Jeno, not trusting himself to speak.

Jeno took it, his expression a mix of surprise and confusion. “Thank you,” he said softly, but Renjun didn’t answer. He just gave a small nod, feeling his heart break all over again.

He couldn’t stay there any longer. Every second was making it harder to hold himself together, to keep from completely crumbling. He turned on his heel and started to walk away, his steps shaky, feeling like he’d been hollowed out from the inside.

As he walk away, he thought he heard Jeno calling for him, but he didn’t stop. He couldn’t. Instead, he broke into a run, desperate to put as much distance as he could between himself and Jeno. Tears blurred his vision, slipping down his cheeks as he weaved through the crowd, his chest aching with each step.

It was like his heart was tearing itself apart. The one thing—the one thing—that had helped him feel close to Jeno, that he’d kept as a reminder of everything they’d been… It was gone now. And so was Jeno, in every way that mattered.

When he finally reached his apartment, he could barely see through the tears. He texted Chenle quickly, saying he wasn’t feeling well and couldn’t meet up. Then he threw his phone onto his bed, collapsed, and finally let it all out. The sobs shook his body, the ache inside him too big to hold back anymore. The emptiness he’d thought he could live with was back, deeper and sharper than ever. The ring had been the last piece of Jeno he’d clung to, the last reminder of the kindness and warmth he thought they’d shared.

And now, even that was gone.

The morning light crept in, but Renjun barely noticed. He lay on his bed, curled on his side, eyes dry but chest still heavy. He wasn’t crying anymore, but that hollow ache wouldn’t go away. All he could feel was that emptiness, like he’d been stripped of the one thing holding him together. He kept his gaze fixed on the wall, letting the numbness settle over him like a blanket.

It wasn’t until he heard the soft click of his bedroom door opening that he stirred, thinking maybe Chenle had come by to check on him. But he didn’t move. He didn’t have the energy to face anyone, to even pretend he was fine.

Then he felt the bed dip behind him, a gentle shift as someone lay down beside him, slipping their arms around him from behind. The warmth, the familiarity of that touch made his breath catch. It wasn’t Chenle. There was only one person it could be.

Before he could even turn around, he heard a soft voice—a voice that made his heart lurch, something he thought he’d never hear again. “I’m sorry.”

Renjun’s whole body froze. He slowly sat up, turning to look, and there was Jeno, sitting right there beside him, looking back at him with this expression Renjun hadn’t seen in so long. It was like he was seeing him for the first time, with something raw and full of regret, mixed with relief. Renjun felt himself shatter all over again. He had convinced himself it was impossible, that Jeno had forgotten him forever. But here he was, in his room, looking at him like he had so much to say.

Jeno took Renjun’s hands, holding them in his own, his grip warm and grounding, and the words finally spilled out. “I remember, Renjun,” Jeno said, his voice unsteady. “I remember everything. I’m so sorry it took me so long to remember you.”

Renjun’s voice was barely a whisper. “How?” He looked at Jeno, desperate, trying to understand, his heart pounding like it didn’t know whether to hope or break.

Jeno gave him a small, sad smile, squeezing his hands tighter. “When I touched the ring,” he said quietly, “everything came back. Every memory, every moment.” He paused, glancing down, almost as if he couldn’t bear to see the hurt in Renjun’s eyes. “I tried to come after you, but my head… it hurt so much, I couldn’t even stand. My friends took me to the hospital. But the moment I woke up, I couldn’t wait to come here. I had to find you.” His gaze lifted, meeting Renjun’s with a look full of things he hadn’t said. “I couldn’t stand the thought of you hurting, Renjun. Not because of me.”

Renjun felt something shift inside him, a flood of emotions he couldn’t contain. The ache he’d tried to bury swelled, and tears slipped down his cheeks. He laughed a little, shaky and broken, clutching onto Jeno’s hands as if he’d vanish if he let go. “This is real right? I'm not dreaming” he whispered. “I can't.... I don't want this to be a dream."

Jeno’s hand gently brushed the tears from Renjun’s cheeks, his eyes soft. “You’re not dreaming, I promise.” He leaned forward, resting his forehead against Renjun’s, and for a moment, they stayed like that, breathing in the quiet relief of being close again. “I’m here, Renjun. And I’m not leaving, not ever.”

He brought his hand up, tracing Jeno’s face slowly—his brow, his cheek, his jawline, as if memorizing each part of him. The familiarity felt surreal, like he was rediscovering him all over again. His fingers trembled, and his breath hitched as he murmured, “Kiss me,” almost afraid to say it aloud.

Jeno didn’t need to be told twice. He leaned in, his lips meeting Renjun’s in a kiss that was soft and warm. It started gentle, a brush of closeness, but it grew deeper, a tender, urgent need passing between them. Jeno’s hands came up to cup Renjun’s face, anchoring him, like he was trying to tell him without words that this was real, that he was there. Renjun felt his heart race as he leaned into it, into Jeno’s warmth, his scent, the familiar comfort of being wrapped up in him again. Every touch, every press of his lips felt like a promise, one that filled the emptiness inside him. Their breaths mingled, and time seemed to stop as they lost themselves in each other, in the closeness they’d both been aching for.

It wasn’t just a kiss; it was everything Renjun had been longing for, everything he’d lost and somehow, miraculously, found

When they finally broke apart, Renjun’s heart was still racing, and he looked at Jeno with wide, teary eyes.  Renjun felt Jeno’s arms pull him closer, and he sank into the embrace, feeling the last pieces of himself coming back together.

Later, lying beside Jeno in the quiet of his room, clothes off, and only a blanket covering their bodies. Renjun felt a peacefulness he hadn’t known he needed. The world outside was silent, but here, in Jeno’s arms, he could feel himself finally letting go of the hurt. They were wrapped up in each other, feeling every brush of warmth and whispered words between them, and Renjun felt whole.

Renjun blinked his eyes open, adjusting to the dim evening light filtering through the curtains. Jeno was right there beside him, fast asleep, his chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. For a moment, Renjun just stared, drinking in the peaceful sight of Jeno’s face, memorizing every detail. Even now, he could hardly believe this was real—could hardly believe that Jeno truly remembered him, that they’d found each other again.

He couldn’t help himself, reaching out to gently trace his fingers along Jeno’s cheek, brushing the messy strands of hair off his forehead. The warmth of Jeno’s skin against his fingertips felt grounding, like it was quietly reassuring him: yes, this is real. Renjun’s lips tugged into a soft smile, and, leaning over, he pressed a light kiss to Jeno’s head.

Slowly, Renjun climbed out of bed, slipping into the nearest clothe to him, which was Jeno’s oversized shirt, feeling strangely comfortable in the clothe that smelled like Jeno. He looked at the clock and realized it was already close to 6 p.m. A faint rumble in his stomach reminded him he hadn’t eaten all day.

Moving into the kitchen, Renjun started setting up for a simple meal, carefully filling a pot and setting it to boil. He stood by the stove, stirring absentmindedly, his thoughts still swirling with everything that had happened. It felt surreal, like he’d stepped into some dream he was terrified of waking up from.

But then, he felt a warm pair of arms wrap around his waist from behind, pulling him close. Soft lips pressed against his cheek, and he immediately recognized the familiar warmth of Jeno’s embrace. Renjun let out a laugh, surprised but happy. “You’re supposed to be resting,” Jeno murmured, his voice still thick with sleep, but the grin on his face was unmistakable as he held Renjun close.

Renjun snorted, turning around to face him with an amused smile. “We’d both die of hunger if we just stayed in bed,” he teased.

But Jeno only shrugged, pulling him closer, his arms wrapped snugly around Renjun’s waist. “Mmm, I can live with that.” And before Renjun could respond, Jeno leaned in, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to his lips.

Renjun melted into the kiss, his heart thudding in his chest, a strange warmth spreading through him. When they finally broke apart, he raised a hand to Jeno’s cheek, his thumb brushing lightly along his jawline as he looked up at him. “This really isn’t a dream, right?” Renjun murmured, his voice a little softer, a little hesitant, as if afraid to hope.

Jeno shook his head, his eyes warm as he gazed back at Renjun. “Not a dream. I’m right here, and I’m not going anywhere.” He tightened his hold on Renjun, a gentle but solid presence. “I’ll never forget about you again. I promise.”

Renjun’s heart felt like it was swelling in his chest, his throat tightening with a wave of emotion. He blinked quickly, feeling a bit embarrassed by how close he was to tears again, but Jeno seemed to understand. He leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss to the corner of Renjun’s eyes, then his cheeks, the the tip of his nose, and finally his lips, a series of soft, tender kisses that felt like a promise in themselves.

They were so wrapped up in each other that they didn’t notice the door opening until a loud, surprised shout made them both jump apart. Renjun turned around quickly, his face heating up in embarrassment as he saw Chenle standing in the doorway with Jisung, who looked like he wanted to sink into the floor from the awkwardness.

Chenle’s eyes were wide as he took in the scene, and Renjun, still flustered, gave a nervous cough. But Jeno just grinned, smoothly recovering as he held out a hand in greeting. “Hey, you must be Renjun’s friends?”

Chenle blinked, his gaze shifting from Renjun to Jeno and back again, before he finally nodded, looking both shocked and impressed. Jisung, meanwhile, was shuffling awkwardly, his eyes glued to the floor.

With a warm smile, Jeno introduced himself. “I’m Jeno—Renjun’s boyfriend.”

Renjun’s heart skipped a beat, his eyes widening slightly at the word. Boyfriend. The label felt new, and he hadn’t really thought about it before, but hearing it now, it felt perfect—like everything had finally fallen into place.

Chenle’s mouth dropped open, and it took him a moment to regain his composure. When he did, he broke into a grin, taking Jeno’s hand enthusiastically. “Boyfriend, huh? Alright, Renjun! About time you told me,” he teased, giving Renjun a playful nudge.

Jisung gave Jeno a polite handshake, still looking a bit awkward but managing a shy smile. Chenle, never one to hold back, immediately walked over to Renjun, his face serious for once. Renjun braced himself, but before he could say anything, Chenle wrapped him in a big hug, laughing. “I’m happy for you, Ren,” he said warmly.

Renjun let out a breath he didn’t know he’d been holding, hugging Chenle back with a quiet “Thanks.”

The four of them settled down around the table, chatting and laughing as they shared the food Renjun had cooked, plus the extra dishes Chenle had brought with him. Chenle and Jeno hit it off immediately, talking like they’d known each other forever, while even Jisung seemed to relax, joining in here and there. Jeno had this way of putting people at ease, and it wasn’t long before they were all laughing and swapping stories as if they’d been friends for years.

By the time Chenle and Jisung finally said goodbye, the night was deep and quiet, a calm settling over the apartment. Renjun closed the door with a soft sigh, glancing back to find Jeno waiting for him, a gentle smile on his face. They didn’t need to say anything as they headed back to the bedroom together, crawling into bed with an easy familiarity that felt like they’d been doing this forever.

Lying there in the soft glow of the night, Jeno wrapped his arms around Renjun, pulling him close as they settled against each other. Renjun felt his eyelids grow heavy, his heart calm, steady, like he was finally home.

And for the first time, after all those nights of agony and pain and crying his heart out, he drifted off to sleep with a contented smile, feeling whole.

Renjun and Jeno were on their way to Jaemin's place for his birthday celebration. It was a tradition with Jeno’s close friends to keep each birthday relaxed but special, usually with dinner and a movie at one of their homes. This year was a little different, though, since Renjun was invited—Jeno’s friends wanted to meet his boyfriend, properly this time, with everyone there. Renjun had met Jaemin, Haechan, and Mark briefly before, but he hadn’t met Yeri yet, and for some reason, that made him a little nervous.

On the way over, Jeno noticed Renjun’s quietness and reached for his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “Don’t worry. They’re all nice, you’ll be fine,” he said with a small, calming smile.

When they got to Jaemin’s building, Renjun was almost speechless. The place looked grand, like the kind of building you’d see in a fancy magazine. And, as they stepped into Jaemin’s condo unit, Renjun couldn’t help but gape. It had floor-to-ceiling windows, beautiful décor, and, okay, it looked just like Jeno’s place. These rich kids... really 

Jaemin greeted them at the door, flashing his perfectly charming smile, and Renjun could see why Chenle used to be so smitten. He made a mental note to try helping Chenle score a date with Jaemin sometime.

“Renjun! So glad you’re here!” Jaemin said enthusiastically, giving him a quick, friendly hug before letting him go. Renjun wished him a happy birthday and handed him a gift he’d brought, and Jaemin’s eyes lit up. “You really didn’t have to get me anything, but thank you! This is sweet.”

The others had gathered around too, and Haechan was first to greet Renjun, acting like they were already close friends. “Finally! Our guest of honor,” Haechan teased, wrapping an arm around Renjun’s shoulder. Mark gave him a small but warm smile, and a pretty girl with long hair—Yeri, he assumed—came up with an excited look on her face.

Renjun suddenly felt a pang of nervousness. He’d heard about Yeri and how she and Jeno had once dated, and it made him wonder if things would be awkward. But Yeri immediately broke into a huge smile and hugged him, saying, “I’ve been waiting forever to finally meet you!” The kindness in her voice instantly melted away his worries, and he found himself smiling back at her, relief flooding through him.

They all moved into the living room, laughing and talking as if they’d known each other forever. As soon as they settled, Haechan nudged Jeno, smirking, and pointed to the kitchen. “Come on, Romeo, leave your boyfriend with us and go help Jaemin and Yeri set up in there. We’ll take care of Renjun.”

Jeno rolled his eyes but turned to Renjun, whispering, “You’ll be okay, right?”

Renjun grinned, trying to show he wasn’t nervous. “I’ll be fine. Go on.”

Jeno gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before heading into the kitchen, but when Renjun turned back, he saw Haechan grinning at him with a teasing glint in his eye. Mark was watching with an amused expression as well.

Haechan leaned over, cooing, “Aww, embarrassed already? You’re cute.”

Renjun flushed, a little flustered by how casual Haechan was, but he just gave a small, shy smile in response. Haechan was already treating him like he was part of the group, making it a lot easier to relax. By the time they all sat down for dinner, Renjun felt comfortable. Everyone laughed and joked, sharing funny stories about each other and reminiscing on old memories.

After eating, Jaemin insisted on picking the movie since it was his birthday, which naturally led to some playful complaining from Haechan and a few dramatic sighs from Mark. Throughout the night, Haechan seemed determined to stay glued to Renjun’s side, making little comments, cracking jokes, and occasionally poking fun at Jeno’s jealous looks whenever he saw them. Renjun actually found it funny, and Haechan’s constant energy kept him entertained. Jeno, though, was clearly a bit annoyed, which just encouraged everyone to tease him more.

When the movie finally ended, it was late, and it was time for Renjun and Jeno to head home. Jeno’s friends hugged Renjun one by one, with Yeri giving him an extra warm hug and whispering that she was glad he came. When it was Haechan’s turn, he pulled Renjun close, giving him a mischievous grin.

“If you ever wanna dump this guy,” he said, loud enough for Jeno to hear, “I’ll be right here to catch you.” The room burst into laughter as Jeno rolled his eyes, shaking his head at Haechan’s shameless comment.

On their way back, they decided to take a quiet walk together before heading home. The night was cool, and they held hands as they walked, Renjun occasionally glancing over at Jeno with a contented smile.

“You were right, you know,” Renjun finally said, squeezing Jeno’s hand a little tighter. “Your friends are so nice. They really made me feel like… part of the group.”

Jeno chuckled. “Yeah, they adore you. I think Haechan might like you a little too much,” he teased, earning a playful nudge from Renjun. They shared a laugh, then fell into a comfortable silence, enjoying the moment.

After a while, Renjun looked over at Jeno again, an amused thought crossing his mind. “Hey… do your friends ever ask when we, like, really started dating? Chenle bugs me about it all the time.”

Jeno smiled, a hint of a smirk. “They did ask. I told them the truth.”

Renjun’s eyes widened. “Wait… seriously? Did they believe you?”

Jeno chuckled, nodding. “Yeah. Mark’s into all those supernatural stuffs, so he was sold right away, even had some theories of his own,” he said, rolling his eyes. “The others were a bit skeptical, but I guess they just figured it was too weird for me to make up.”

Renjun laughed at the thought. “You know… maybe I should tell Chenle and Jisung too, then. Might save me from all their theories.”

Jeno just gave him a warm smile, and they kept walking in comfortable silence for a bit longer. Then, Jeno stopped suddenly, turning to face Renjun. Before Renjun could ask what was up, Jeno leaned in and kissed him gently. Renjun chuckled when they pulled apart, giving him a slightly confused look.

“What was that for?” he asked softly.

Jeno looked at him with such tenderness that it made Renjun’s heart skip a beat. “I just felt like it,” he said, smiling, his voice soft but full of meaning. He reached into his pocket, pulling out the ring he had taken back from Renjun. For a moment, he simply held it, looking down at it with a gentle smile. Then, slipping the ring onto Renjun's ring finger, he glanced up, his gaze meeting Renjun’s with a new intensity.

“I love you,” he said quietly, his eyes serious yet warm, as if those three words had been waiting for just the right time to be spoken.

Renjun blinked in surprise; he hadn’t expected to hear those words tonight, let alone see Jeno put on that ring in his finger, binding them together in a way he hadn’t realized he’d been longing for. As the meaning of it all sank in, he felt a surge of warmth and joy that left him breathless. Smiling, he leaned forward, returning the kiss and whispering, “I love you too,” sealing everything they shared in that single, perfect moment.

They resumed their walk, hand in hand, their steps slow and unhurried. The city lights glimmered around them, and with every step, Renjun felt the world grow a little brighter, like every worry was fading away.

Maybe it was just the night air, or maybe it was the fact that he’d finally found something real with Jeno, something he hadn’t even dared to imagine before.

END...