Archive of Our Own ^beta

Sion had been alone for nearly a year. 

The world had turned into a nightmare, overrun by the undead. Nobody knows how that happened. One day everything was fine, Sion was attending classes in the university, the next the military flooded the city saying a sudden disease broke out and everyone had to evacuate. A virus, the authorities said. Hundreds of people started dying out of nowhere but it wasn't the end, it was only the beginning. 

The decaying bodies rose up from the dead and the world turned upside down. First, the phone lines were down, then the internet, and lastly the electricity... suddenly the country of Korea, the tiger of technology, went back to the middle ages. 

The disease became too hard to control. Military had a problem with keeping up, the undead were flooding from every side killing any living creature on their way. 

It was hell.

At first Sion was with his friends, he tried to contact his parents and family but with the power down there was no way to know if they made it to safety. So he stayed with his friends in the university dorms for a few weeks trying to survive but they couldn't hold on for long. The military came for them after a few days, insisting on evacuating the students to their military base in the south of the country. But traveling through the country in the middle of the apocalypse wasn't as easy as it seemed. 

During their ride their group was attacked. The military and the student fought bravely but what was a group of young boys against a horde of monsters who destroyed everything that stood in their way? 

The blood was spilled. Sion watched his friends being bitten, their skin and limbs ripped apart by the undead. He himself was fighting with all the strength he had with the little skills he had. The military men fought bravely too, trying to protect the boys but they were outnumbered. 

He had no idea what happened. At one point Sion found himself flying away when their car almost fell off the bridge. The only thing he remembered before he fell to the cold water of the river was the sight of his friends being eaten alive by the undead. Then darkness surrounded him and everything went black.

He regained consciousness when the river washed him ashore, several kilometers away. He was alone, soaked to the bones and on the verge of hypothermia. He was in the woods, with no food, no shelter and no weapon. Fear filled him full, a trauma so big he couldn't move for a few hours replying to the horrors he saw earlier. The world went to hell and he didn't want to live anymore. But he knew that if he took his own life he would become one of them. He couldn't bring himself to end his own life. He was injured, terrified and alone. He had no idea what to do, where to go.

But he knew one thing. He knew he couldn’t turn into one of the undead. He knew had to survive. 

He would survive.

《》

One year later…

The sun was shining when Sion crossed the borders of a small village. Sweat dripped down his forehead and his tank top was sticking to his torso uncomfortably. He looked around, holding his ax in an iron grip. The village appeared to be inhabited but he learned his lesson during these few months, the undead were hiding everywhere. He was slowly making his way through the village observing every corner. He was extremely tired, on the verge of collapsing. He was traveling for a few weeks without rest and he needed to find a place to stay hidden for a few days to think and make a plan.

The village looked like a battlefield. The streets were empty, old dirty cars left in the middle of the road. Half of the buildings collapsed, half were destroyed with no windows and holes in the walls. It was clear the army was fighting the undead there in the past. It would be hard to find a place to hide but luck was on Sion's side this time. Not many undead in sight, just one body in the car and one undead wandering around that Sion took care of in a second. It was quiet, almost peaceful and in one of the alleyways Sion saw a small library, which was intact compared to most of the buildings in the village. 

 Sion adjusted his backpack and went to the library. The doors were open so he went inside cautiously. Lucky for him no undead in sight. The place was quite big but also a mess though, books scattered on the floor and furniture knocked over. In the back there was a quite large social room that served as a small kitchen, there was a table, few chairs and even a small couch, and right next to it there was a small bathroom. There was no shower, but Sion was still happy to see a toilet and a small sink. There was also a reading room with few seating poufs and a studying room. There were a few computers still sitting there but they were of no use at this point.

He went through the back door and there was a small parking lot with a pickup truck. That piqued Sion's interest. The truck was in a good shape considering it probably was there for over a year but if he would be able to start it then he would be able to travel faster. 

Then Sion spotted a leader that was going to the roof. He climbed it and landed on top of the building and breathed the fresh air. It wasn't a tall building, maybe seven meters high at most but the view was still nice. He could see the main street from there and the forest in the distance. He smiled. 

“Perfect.” He said to himself. At that moment for the first time in weeks he was at peace.

And so his stay at the library began.

《》

Sion managed to survive by himself in the deserted library for a few days. He barricaded himself so that no undead would enter. He pulled all the shelves to the windows so that nothing would enter even if they break the window. He found a flashlight to put some lights on but luckily the library was built in the old style, so in addition to the wooden floor and furniture, it also had a small fireplace in the corner. At first it was probably just for decoration, but Sion unblocked the chimney and made a fire with wood he found in the forest. 

Over the months of survival in the forest and ghost towns, he gained many skills. From a young boy who had two left hands he became a man who could light a fire and start a car using cables. And soon that library became his shelter.

When he was done with arranging the inside to be safe, Sion finally laid down on the couch that he took from the social room to the main room. He sighed and looked around.

A haven of books and solitude. 

He'd given up hope of ever seeing another human being. It's been months since he encountered another living person. He was traveling around the country trying to find his family or friends, or anyone at that point but all he saw was the walking dead. It hurt. He didn't even know if people made it. He could be the only one alive at this point. He tried to communicate through a radio he found along his way but all his tries were in vain. Silence always answered him. 

He closed his eyes and decided to finally have some rest. It was okay. He was going to survive alone if he had to. He was already used to loneliness, anyway.

《》

Time passed. Sion made himself at home in the library. At first, it was supposed to serve as a temporary shelter, but the strategic location of the building convinced him to stay here longer. There were few shops around and luckily for him there was some canned food he could still eat. He also found a well in one of the gardens of a nearby house where the water was safe to drink. With those resources he could spend in the library the next few weeks without worries. 

And that was exactly his plan. 

He worked hard to stay alive, there were still a few wandering undead around but they were easy to take care of. Sion killed them in the morning, once during the day and then before he went to sleep. He had a simple routine he followed through the day, he patrolled the neighborhood, cooked whatever he could in the fireplace in the library and when he was bored he read the books while lying on the couch. It sounded boring but it was better than being out there in the woods and fighting for survival so Sion was content with what he had. 

Until something disturbed his peace.

One dreary day, Sion was getting ready to sleep when a sound broke the eerie silence. Footsteps, the sound of shoes scraping on the sand, faint but unmistakable. Sion's heart pounded in his chest, he sat down on the couch, his hand instinctively reaching out for his ax. At first he thought it was a walker wandering in the empty street but there wasn't any other noise except for footsteps. It couldn't be a walker, it was too quiet to be a walker.

It sounded like… a human.

Could it be? He crept to the window, peering out into the desolate street. He gasped at the sight that welcomed him. He couldn't believe what he was seeing.

There, stumbling towards the library, was a figure. A human figure. Sion's breath caught in his throat. 

He'd been so sure he was the last one left.

As the figure got closer, Sion could see that it was a young man, his clothes torn and his face covered in grime. He looked exhausted, almost on the brink of collapse. He was limping, face covered in scratches, he had a bag slung over his shoulders and he was holding a baseball bat. The boy looked like he'd been through a lot. 

At that moment, Sion's heart sped up. He looked at the man as if he was an alien. It had been months since he had seen another human being. He already lost hope that he would see another living person. Especially a boy that looked close to his age. A turmoil of emotions overflowed him. 

The boy was walking down the street unaware of Sion watching him, his face twisted in discomfort and it was clear he was trying hard to stay on his legs. But then they gave out and with a moan of pain the boy fell to the ground and Sion couldn't be a bystander any longer.

Sion rushed to the door, throwing it open. "Are you okay?" He asked, his voice trembling. His decision to reveal himself was probably very immature. He didn't know that man, he didn't know his intentions but he didn't care. He just felt the urge to help him.

The young man looked up, his eyes wide with surprise. "I-I think so.” He managed to say. 

He tried to stand up on his wobbly legs but Sion could see him reaching for his baseball bat. The boy was eyeing him curiously, probably wondering what would be Sion's next step.

And Sion? Sion still couldn't believe his eyes. A living, breathing human being was standing in front of him. He rushed to help but the man held out the baseball bat towards him in self-defense. Sion stopped in his track with hands up in the air.

“Whoa.” He exclaimed. “No need for that, I just want to help you.”

The boy furrowed his eyebrows, his whole body trembling. It was clear he was barely holding himself up. 

“How can I be sure I can trust you?” He asked with a shaky voice. He was clearly scared.

Sion took a step towards him. “You can't. But you won't go far in this state. And I have resources to help you.” He stated, having eye contact with the boy. “So? Will you let me?”

The man stood before him contemplating Sion's words. He was still not trusting Sion but Sion didn't blame him. Who knows what that boy went through before.

And then the man nodded and lowered the bat. Sion smiled. Or more like grinned, joy took over his body. Just a thought of having an interaction with another human made him giddy. It's been so long.

And then the boy’s legs gave out again and he was about to fall once more but Sion managed to catch him in the last second, before the boy's knees collided with the ground. Sion's heart beat faster. His hands rested on the stranger's shoulders and Sion felt his breath on his cheeks. For the first time in so long, he felt the warmth of another human being. That was overwhelming. 

He cleared his throat.

He reached out and took the man's hand helping him to get him up. "My name is Oh Sion," he said. "What's yours?"

"Daeyoung." The man replied. Daeyoung, what a nice name. “Kim Daeyoung ”

Sion was so overcome with joy that he didn't think before he acted. He leaned in and kissed Daeyoung on the cheek. 

Daeyoung's eyes immediately went wide. "What was that for?" he asked, his voice laced with confusion. They were both too stunned to react. 

Sion grinned, honestly he was too happy to be embarrassed. 

"For being alive." He replied.

Daeyiung looked at him for a moment, then slapped him hard on the arm, and looked away. "D-don't do that." He stuttered blush appearing on his cheeks.

Sion laughed. "Sorry." he said. "I just can't believe I'm not alone anymore." He whispered.

Daeyoung rolled his eyes but couldn't help but smile. 

“It's okay, I guess… I was just surprised.” He admitted. Sion felt warmth all over himself.

It was a feeling he couldn't describe, so much more than happiness. He was alone for so long he sometimes forgot he was human himself. But talking with Daeyoung, touching him and laughing with him in the middle of the road in a ghost village felt just surreal. All the hope that was long gone reapered and blossomed in his chest like a beautiful flower.

He just gained more strength to live again.

“Now let's get you patched up.” Sion just smiled and they walked back to the library.

《》

Sion knelt beside Daeyoung that was sitting on the couch and carefully examined his bruised ankle. The young man winced as Sion gently pressed on the swollen area.

"I don't think it's sprained," Sion said, his voice filled with relief. "Just a nasty bruise."

He stood up and disappeared into the back room of the library. A moment later, he returned with a bottle of cold water. "This isn't ideal, but it should help with the swelling. Sadly I don’t have any ice here." He explained, gently applying the cold water to Daeyoung's ankle. 

Now in the comfort of the library Sion could finally observe the boy in detail. He looked bad, he was dirty and it was clear he was starved but other than that no bad injuries. Despite his demolished state Sion had to admit the boy was extremely handsome. He was tall and had broad shoulders, a physique a lot of basketball players would be jealous of. He had a small face, sharp jawline, high nose and small but beautiful brown eyes. And his smile was adorable. He had thin lips when stretched in a smile and showed a cute snaggletooth. 

He could be a model. Sion had to physically pull himself to stand up and stop staring at the beautiful stranger.

Daeyoung looked around the library, taking in the dusty shelves and scattered books on the shelves. "You live here?" he asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

Sion nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I've been here for a few days now. It's a good spot. Not too many undead around, and there are a few shops nearby that still have supplies." He was proud of his little hiding spot. The library was still dusty since cleaning wasn't on his priority list but it was safe and it was what mattered the most.

Daeyoung couldn't help but smile back. "It's cozy. A little dirty, but cozy."

They both laughed at his words.

They fell into comfortable silence. Sion finished bandaging Daeyoung's ankle and sat down beside him. In full honesty both of them were overwhelmed by emotions. Sion especially still couldn't comprehend what happened. Meeting Daeyoung after a year of being alone felt like a dream and Sion didn't want to wake up.

"I'm glad I found you.” He admitted. "I thought I was the last one left."

Daeyoung was taken aback. He looked at Sion with big eyes. Sion’s words had a heaviness to them that they both felt. 

"How long have you been alone?" Daeyoung asked.

Sion just sighed and started playing with the roll of the bandage with his hands. For some reason it was hard to look at Daeyoung at that moment.

"Over a year.” Sion replied, his voice heavy with loneliness.

Daeyoung was stunned. A year alone? He couldn't imagine the loneliness and fear Sion must have endured. "That's a long time.” He said softly.

Sion nodded, his gaze distant. "It was tough. Really tough. But I managed. I found a way to survive." There was nothing more to add. He didn't want to bore Daeyoung with his sob story. He was sure Daeyoung had his own trauma to bear.

A comfortable silence fell between them. The soft crackling of the fire in the fireplace was the only sound that filled the room. Daeyoung observed the room for some time but then put his hand on Sion’s shoulder all of sudden. The older looked at him surprised, not expecting any physical contact. The other man just smiled softly but sincerely. 

"Thank you, Sion. For bandaging my wound but also for bringing me here. You could've left me but you helped me and I'll be forever thankful for that  and... I'm just grateful for your company.” Daeyoung said, breaking the silence. "It's nice to have someone to talk to."

Sion smiled. "I feel the same way. It's been a long time since I've had a real conversation."

As they sat there, a sense of camaraderie grew between them. But Sion was curious. What was a young boy (he learned earlier that Daeyoung was three years younger than him) doing all alone in the middle of a ghost city? He didn't want to come off as rude but Daeyoung didn't have the aura of a survival expert.

"What happened? You were also alone when I saw you, were you alone from the beginning or...?" he asked, curious. He really wanted to know.

Daeyoung sighed, his eyes distant. "No, I wasn't. I was with my older brother, Doyoung. We were studying at Seoul National University when everything went to hell. We tried to get back to Daegu, to our parents, but we got separated in the chaos. He fought off the undead while I ran away. He told me not to look back, so I didn't. I tried to go back to the place we separated a few days after we split but there was no trace of him anymore. I've been searching for him for almost three months now, but I haven't seen any sign of him. I don't even know if…. If he's still alive." His lips trembled as he spoke, and Sion could see the pain in his eyes. Daeyoung took a deep breath and closed his eyes. 

"I'm sorry," Sion said softly. "Your brother is brave. He must really love you, I'm sure he is okay somewhere." 

Daeyoung smiled weakly. "Thank you."

Sion sighed. "I kind of know how you feel.” Since Daeyoung shared his story with him it was only fair for Sion to reveal his own demons too. So he sighed and continued.

“I also have a brother, Jaehyun. He's older than me. When the outbreak happened, we were in different parts of the country. He was in Seoul, and my parents were in Mokpo. I was at university. At first I was with my friends but when the military was transporting us to the base, we were run by the undead. We were on a bridge and I guess the doors were opened because I fell into the river and lost consciousness. I woke up a few days later in a different part of the city all alone.” Sion blinked his tears away after those memories started filling his mind. Daeyoung rubbed his shoulder. 

“So I went to Mokpo to see if my parents were alive, but our farm was completely destroyed. Almost the whole city was destroyed, actually. I don't know if they made it out. Then I tried to go to Seoul to find my brother but you probably know that going back there was almost impossible. Too many undead around. But I have hoped my family escaped somewhere and I've been searching for them for over a year, but I haven't found any trace of them and I don't know if I ever will. I don't know if they're still alive either."

Daeyoung took Sion's hand, offering him comfort. "They are. They have to be. My family and yours. We will find them one day." He said with determination.

Sion smiled, a flicker of hope igniting in his eyes. Warmth filled him again, it was nice to have someone to share his story with. And have someone cheer him up.  "I hope we will." 

They looked at each other with sad smiles for a while but they broke eye contact. The air was thick with tension they couldn't identify and Sion was too tired to think about it. They had too many emotions for one day already. So he got up from the couch and coughed trying to hide his awkwardness.

“Let’s sleep, you're probably tired.” He said and the younger one blinked at him from behind his long bangs. They could trim it later, Sion thought.

“Can I stay with you? For real?” Daeyoung asked. Sion smiled at his cute, surprised expression. Daeyoung had very expressive eyes.

“Of course. Take the couch.” the older one gestured to the couch Daeyoung was sitting on but the younger shook his head immediately.

“Oh no, I can’t. You've already done so much for me. I can't take your bed.” He mumbled trying to get up but Sion put his hands on Daeyoung's shoulders making him sit back. Daeyoung looked up at him with his brown eyes.

“Please, I insist.” Sion smiled.   “You are injured and you need to rest properly. I wouldn't forgive myself if I let you sleep on the floor or on one of those old poufs.” He joked. 

“I..” Daeyoung opened his mouth, probably to argue more but one determined look from Sion made him close his mouth again. He looked away, a soft smile forming on his lips. 

“Thank you. I appreciate it.”

“No problem.” Sion smiled. 

Sion checked everything one last time, he secured the front and back door to make sure they were really safe inside. Then he dimmed the fire in the fireplace and the whole library become dark. 

Daeyoung was laying on Sion’s couch, his feet hanging off, he was too tall and Sion smiled at the sight. The older one put his clothes on the floor and laid down on them. 

Luckily he had a few blankets so he took one but they really needed to find him some mattress. 

“Goodnight, Daeyoung. ” Sion whispered.

“Goodnight, Sion.” Daeyoung voice cut the silence.

For the first time in months Sion fell asleep with a smile on his face. 

《》

Next day Sion woke up earlier and decided to go out for something to eat. The first rays of dawn peeked through the grimy windowpane, casting long, eerie shadows across the dusty library floor. Sion nudged Daeyoung gently, his voice barely a whisper.

"Hey, Daeyoung, wake up." He said.

Daeyoung groaned, his eyes fluttering open. "What time is it?" He mumbled, his voice thick with sleep. He didn't open his eyes and nuzzled onto the couch like a cat. It was cute. It was clear it was a long time since he slept on something close to a bed.

"Early.” Sion replied with a smile. "I'm going out. I need to find some more food, didn't expect any guests." He joked but at his words Daeyoung's eyes shot open. 

A wave of worry washed over Daeyoung's face and he sat up, wide awake. "Are you sure that's wise? It's dangerous out there."

Sion smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry. I'll be careful. I have a car parked in the backyard parking lot. I'll use that to get to the nearest shops. Or maybe I'll hunt something if we want some meat. I'll make some fancy dinner." He added with a mischievous glint in his eye.

Daeyoung chuckled, but his smile quickly faded. "Then I'll go with you.” He insisted, trying to sit up. It was clear he wanted to be useful.

A sharp pain shot through his leg, and Daeyoung winced. "Ow." He whimpered and fell down on the couch touching his ankle.

Sion shook his head. "No, you need to rest. I'll be quick, I promise."

Daeyoung sighed, defeated. "Okay, but be careful." He knew there was no room for arguing in his state. His ankle was still swollen and he had trouble walking and he would only slow Sion down. 

Sion nodded, a determined look in his eyes. "I will."

With that, he turned and left the library, the heavy door swinging shut behind him. As he stepped out into the bleak morning, he couldn't shake the feeling that this was a dangerous gamble. He didn't plan on going out in a few days but he really didn't have food for two people. The thought of Daeyoung, weak and hungry, spurred him on. He had to find more food, no matter the cost. 

The once bustling village was now a ghost town, its eerie silence broken only by the distant cries of the undead. Sion hated that sound. These were once living people, humans with families, with normal lives and dreams for the future. Now they were rotting bodies walking around. It was a depressing sight.

He walked with his backpack to small shops and dug in every corner to find something to eat. It was a long process but Sion had succeeded. He had found a nearby shop, its shelves still stocked with canned ham and some water. He’d packed as much as he could carry, eager to return to Daeyoung.

As he entered the library, Daeyoung was already up, his eyes bright with anticipation. He helped Sion unpack the supplies, his movements efficient and purposeful. Sion couldn’t help but smile. Daeyoung, despite his injuries, was determined to contribute. It was a refreshing change from the loneliness he got used to.

There was an undeniable awkwardness about Daeyoung, a certain vulnerability that made him endearing. Sion couldn’t help but stare. Maybe because he was yearning for an interaction with a living human being for so long or maybe just because Daeyoung was interesting to observe, he didn't know. But he knew he already liked Daeyoung’s company very much.

Beneath Daeyoung’s awkward exterior, there was a core of strength and a desire to be useful. Sion appreciated that. Even though Daeyoung was injured he wanted to help as much as he could.

As they worked together, Sion couldn’t help but reflect on the risks he had taken to rescue Daeyoung. Had he been too impulsive? Perhaps. But in the end, it paid off. Daeyoung was a good person, a valuable ally in this harsh new world. And as they sat on the old couch and ate the food he found, Sion felt a sense of gratitude and companionship he hadn’t expected.

《》

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long, eerie shadows across the alleyway. Sion, armed with a makeshift weapon, cautiously stepped out of the library's entrance. Daeyoung, perched by the window, watched his every move, his eyes scanning the desolate street.

"Be careful." Daeyoung murmured, his voice barely audible. He held his baseball bat in his hands just in case but Sion was sure it wouldn't be necessary.

Sion nodded, a grim smile playing on his lips. "I will."

With that, he disappeared into the twilight, leaving Daeyoung alone with his thoughts. It had been a few days since Sion took Daeyoung in and usually there weren't many undead around but that day a surprisingly big amount of walkers stumbled upon the library. Sion had to get out for longer than usual to fight them off and Daeyoung was scared for him.  

He watched as Sion deftly dispatched the undead, his movements fluid and precise. It was a dance of death, a macabre ballet that Daeyoung couldn't tear his eyes away from. Daeyoung himself fought with undead in the past too, but his skills couldn't compare to how Sion moved. The older knew exactly where to hit to kill the walker for good. He also was quick and precise, his ax glistening in the light when he cut the undead’s head in half. 

When Sion was done, he went back to the library. He was covered in blood and other things , which looked and smelled absolutely disgusting but Daeyoung just smiled at him, happy that the older one was safe. 

“Go clean up.” Daeyoung said, taking Sion’s ax from him. 

“We definitely need to make a solid fence.” Sion said, taking off his bloody shirt. Daeyoung averted his eyes.

“Tomorrow. Now go to the bathroom. You stink.” Daeyoung made a funny face and Sion laughed.

“Tomorrow, then.” 

《》

As the days turned into weeks, Sion and Daeyoung worked tirelessly to transform the library into a fortress. They cleaned every room as much as they could, they organized furniture and all the books, and they fortified the walls. Daeyoung's keen eye for detail and Sion's brute strength made for a formidable team.

As they worked, they talked, sharing stories and dreams. Daeyoung often spoke of his brother, a lost soul in a world gone mad. He was sure his brother survived, he was a medicine student, he had just started his 2nd year of working at the hospital when the outbreak happened. Daeyoung was convinced that if anyone made it out it would be his brother. He was the smartest person he knew. He was sure his brother was looking for him wherever he was at that moment.

Sion listened, his heart aching for the young man's longing. He knew that Daeyoung would eventually have to leave, to search for his brother, no matter how much he wanted to stay.

And yet, as they sat together, the fire crackling in the fireplace, Sion couldn't help but imagine a future where they would always be together. A future where the library would be their sanctuary, a place of peace and safety. But he knew it was just a dream, a fleeting fantasy. 

For now, they were content. They were alive, they were together, and they were safe. And that was enough.

The fire crackled softly, casting dancing shadows on the walls of the library. Sion and Daeyoung sat side by side, a comfortable silence between them.

"Do you remember what you wanted to be when you were a kid?" Daeyoung asked, breaking the silence.

Sion smiled. "I wanted to be a writer. I loved losing myself in stories, creating worlds and characters. I was actually studying literature in college.” The older one shared with a smile, thinking about the old days when everything was peaceful. “What about you?”

Daeyoung chuckled. "I wanted to be a doctor just like my brother. I wanted to be a pediatrician. I always admired those who could heal people and I've always liked kids. I was just starting med school when the world went to shit."

"That's a noble aspiration." Sion said. "I'm glad you chose that path. You would be an amazing doctor, I'm sure of it." Sion replies and the younger one smiled softly.

“Thank you. And you? Have you ever written anything?" Daeyoung asked, curious.

Sion nodded. "I used to write short stories and poems. But I never showed them to anyone. I was too scared of judgment. Even during classes I didn't want to share anything with the rest." The man chuckled. He really was so shy back then. He was bright and he liked people but he was always trying not to stand out from the crowd that much. How much has he changed since back then? 

"You should have.” Daeyoung said. "Maybe one day, you could pick up your pen again."

Sion smiled gratefully. "Maybe."

As they talked, they shared more and more about their pasts. They spoke of childhood dreams, family, and friends. It was a bittersweet experience, a reminder of the lives they once knew. But it was also a source of comfort, a connection that deepened with each shared memory.

《》

Time flew by and Daeyoung's ankle slowly healed under Sion's careful care. 

The quiet moments they shared in the library had become a cherished routine. They changed it into their own little home. At this point they knew every corner of the building. 

The soft glow of the library lamp illuminated the worn, leather-bound book in Daeyoung's hands. He was lost in a world of words, his fingers tracing the lines as he delved deeper into the story. Daeyoung always loved to read but he didn't have much time in high school. He was always studying hard for med school and the rest of his free time he spent playing basketball and learning piano. Now, he had the entire library and its contents to himself.

The quiet hum of the wind outside was the only sound that disturbed the peaceful ambiance.

Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Sion stepped in, his figure silhouetted against the fading daylight. A small, furry creature was cradled in his arms, a dead rabbit, and a few chocolate bars were tucked into his pocket. He moved towards Daeyoung, a gentle smile playing on his lips.

"Here, I found this.” Sion said, handing Daeyoung one of the chocolate bars. He had a proud smirk on his face. 

Daeyoung's eyes lit up. It had been ages since he'd tasted chocolate. He mentioned to Sion a few days earlier that he would do anything to taste some sweets again. 

“You remembered.” Daeyoung whispered, touched to the core by Sion's thoughtfulness.

“Yeah, you were whining about sweets for some time so..” Sion laughed but looked away trying to hide the blush of embarrassment. Daeyoung just rolled his eyes at him.

He unwrapped the bar and took a bite, savoring the sweet, rich flavor. A contented sigh escaped his lips.

“This is so good! Where did you find it?” 

“Just in some store.” Sion shrugged as if it wasn't a big of a deal and put the rabbit next to the fireplace. Daeyoung raised an eyebrow in question, still munching on chocolate and Sion smiled sheepishly.

“Just thought we could have some protein for dinner today.” The older one answered after seeing Daeyoung’s sceptical gaze on the rabbit.

It was clear Sion was tired from his trip. He massaged his arm that was hurting from swinging his ax too much. He took off his shirt and pulled a spare one, throwing it on. They found a wardrobe full of clothes in one of the destroyed houses in the village and now they had a lot of clean clothes to use.

Sion sat down next to Daeyoung on the couch and sighed loudly. He was really tired, he just wanted to sleep.

As Daeyoung finished the chocolate, he shifted his position, wincing slightly. Sion noticed the subtle movement and his brow furrowed.

"How's your ankle?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

Daeyoung tried to shrug it off. "It's not that bad. Just a little sore sometimes."

Sion wasn't convinced. He gently took Daeyoung's leg and began to unwrap the bandage. A small gasp escaped Daeyoung’s lips as the cool air touched his injured ankle. Sion was touching him as if he was made of glass but he still could feel the press of his hand on his ankle.

"I actually found something that might help." Sion said, getting up and rummaging through his bag. He returned with a small tube of ointment.

Daeyiung’s eyes widened in surprise. "You found an ointment?"

Sion nodded, a sheepish grin on his face. "There's a pharmacy a few kilometers away. It seemed almost empty but I found some stuff on the floor. It seems the people couldn't take everything when they fled the city. Luckily, the ointment was almost full and its not expired yet."

Daeyoung was speechless. He couldn't believe Sion had gone to such lengths for him. "Thank you.” he stammered, his face flushing. How could he get so lucky?

Sion was so selfless, always helping him, listening to Daeyoung attentively and going the extra mile to make Daeyoung as comfortable as he could. Daeyoung couldn't believe someone as good as Sion existed.

Sion sat down next to Daeyoung and began to gently massage the ointment into his ankle. The warmth of Sion's touch sent a shiver down the younger’s spine. He tried to focus on the soothing sensation, but his mind was racing.

As the silence stretched between them, a strange feeling grew in Daeyoung's chest. He glanced at Sion, who was focused on his task, his expression soft. A blush crept up Daeyoung's cheeks as he realized how close they were. Why didn't he realize earlier how handsome Sion was?

Sion finished applying the ointment and stood up. "There, that should help.” He said, his voice barely a whisper. For some reason both of them couldn't look each other in the eyes.

Sion couldn't bear to look at Daeyoung. Their earlier position with Daeyoung's leg on Sion's lap felt strangely intimate and Sion didn't want to cross any lines and make the younger uncomfortable. Yes, they were quite close friends now, it was bound to happen since they spent so much time together. And yes, he thought Daeyoung was quite attractive, extremely even, he realized it the moment he met the younger. 

And it also turned out Daeyoung was the kindest person he's ever met. He was also very smart, full of jokes and surprisingly acted very cute at times. So it didn't shock Sion that he found himself being breathless when he and Daeyoung sat too close on the couch or it didn't surprise him when his heart beat faster when Daeyoung touched him even just for a second.

Sion was crushing. He was crushing very hard and it made him awkward. He cleared his throat.

Daeyoung nodded, still a little breathless. "Thanks again." He managed to say.

As Sion turned to leave, he hesitated for a moment. Then, he turned back and smiled at Daeyoung "I'm going to clean myself from the hunt." He said, before disappearing into the darkness.

He had to calm his fast beating heart down.

《》

The library indeed had become their safe place. A haven of warmth and safety in a world gone mad. Daeyoung was slowly regaining his strength under Sion’s watchful care. The scratches on his face had faded, leaving only faint scars. He could now walk, albeit with a slight limp, and even help Sion in the occasional skirmish with the undead.

One such morning, they ventured out into the desolate streets. Daeyoung, armed with his baseball bat that now had some wires around it, stood beside Sion, his posture surprisingly confident. As a horde of the infected shambled towards them, Daeyoung swung his bat with surprising force, sending one of the creatures flying.

Sion watched in amazement. “Not bad.” He grinned.

Daeyoung returned the grin, a flicker of pride in his eyes. “I had a good teacher.”

Together, they fought off the horde, their movements synchronized, their bond stronger than ever. As they returned to the library, exhausted but victorious, Sion couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. He had witnessed Daeyoung’s transformation, from a vulnerable victim to a fierce survivor. 

They really made a great team.

《》

One evening, as they sat side by side on their little couch, a comfortable silence settled between them. It was a long day, they went out to the city for food and had to fight with the infected a little longer than usual. Not only that, their car broke so they had to repair it. Luckily Sion was a great mechanic as well. Daeyoung was so amazed when the older one knew how to fix the car almost instantly. 

It really was a long day and they just wanted to rest.

Sion glanced at Daeyoung, his eyes lingering on the other's face. He'd grown accustomed to Daeyoung's presence, to the warmth of his smile, and the sound of his laughter. Daeyoung really made him happy again. Before he met him Sion was tired and heavily depressed. He was angry at the world, he was angry at himself, he was angry just about everything. The world practically ended and he was just existing and trying to survive. Now, with another human accompanying him, with Daeyoung, he found a new purpose. To keep them both safe and to stay alive.

The fire crackled, casting dancing shadows on the wall. Sion and Daeyoung sat in comfortable silence, the warmth of the fire a stark contrast to the cold world outside. It was a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. And then Daeyoung decided to cut the silence.

"Remember when we first met?" The younger asked, a mischievous glint in his eye. He nudged Sion's shoulder and laughed when Sion's face flushed slightly. 

"Yeah, I remember." He murmured, embarrassed. It's been weeks since that day but the memory was still as clear as a day. 

"You were so intense." Daeyoung chuckled. “I almost got a heart attack when I saw the doors of the library opening, thinking it was a walker trying to eat me.”

"I was just trying to see if you're okay! I couldn't leave an injured human alone." Sion defended, his voice a bit too loud. “I would help anyone!” 

"Sure, I know. Such a superhero." Daeyoung teased. Then his smile turned even more teasing, he turned to face Sion and looked him straight in the eyes.

 "And then you kissed me out of the blue."

Sion's face turned a deep shade of red.

 "I... I didn't know what I was doing. I was just so happy to see a living person." He answered, voice almost a pitch higher. And great, he even stuttered, how embarrassing.

Daeyoung leaned forward, his eyes soft. "I didn't mind."

What?  

Sion's heart skipped a beat. He couldn't believe Jaehee had just said that. Did he hear it right? Did Daeyoung, his new crush, just admit that he liked that Sion kissed him? 

He looked away, trying to hide his embarrassment.

"I don't mind.” Daeyoung continued, a small smile playing on his lips. "It was... nice. It felt nice seeing someone so happy to see me…" Then he finally turned around but even in the dim of the fireplace Sion could see his cheeks turning red. He was glad he wasn’t the only one affected by the kiss.

Sion stole a glance at Daeyoung, his heart pounding.

It was a perfect moment. For a few days Sion was thinking about something. It was a thought that took all of his focus. Every time Sion looked at Daeyoung that question popped up in his mind but the older one didn't gather the courage to ask it out loud. Now it felt fitting.

"Daeyoung-ah," Sion began, his voice barely a whisper. His heart was beating like crazy. "I was wondering..." He paused, unsure of how to phrase his thoughts.

Daeyoung looked up, his curiosity piqued. "Yes?"

Sion took a deep breath. That was it. That was the moment. He bit his lip and sighed. There was no turning back now.

“When your ankle is fully healed, would you... would you like to stay with me?”

Silence. Daeyoung just blinked at Sion, his mouth slightly opened in surprise.

Sion swallowed and continued. “We are a good team, we get along. We could share the library, the fire, and the hunt. We can be safe here for a long time. So.. will you stay?”

Silence. 

Sion closed his eyes waiting for Daeyoung's answer. He knew it was a lot to ask. As much as he enjoyed Daeyoung's company he knew the younger’s heart was longing to go out into the world and look for his brother. But if there was a slight chance Daeyoung might want to stay there, in the library, with him , Sion was about to take it. He really wanted Daeyoung to stay with him.

And Daeyoung? Daeyoung's heart pounded in his chest. He hadn't expected this. He'd grown fond of Sion, of their quiet companionship. But the idea of a future together, of a life shared, was both thrilling and terrifying. 

"I..." Daeyoung stammered, his voice barely audible. "I don't know what to say."

Sion smiled gently. He knew he couldn't expect an immediate answer. But it wasn't a ‘no’. So there was hope.

"Take your time. There's no rush." He smiled softly.

A long moment passed. Daeyoung looked into Sion's eyes, searching for an answer. A mix of emotions flashed on the younger’s face. Sion could see the battle that took place in his head. Daeyoung was probably thinking hard about every possible answer. It was nerve-wracking. Sion’s leg started bouncing as a sign of stress. He was waiting anxiously for the answer.

Daeyoung sighed and looked away. His eyes fixed on the fireplace.

“I don't know what to do.” The younger whispered, not looking at Sion.

“What do you mean?” Sion asked. 

“I want to find my brother, that was my only goal for the last three months before you found me. I was searching for him as hard as I could and I won't ever give up looking for him.” Daeyoung started, voice slightly above whisper. Sion's heart clenched. 

“But now I don't know what my goal is. I still want to find my brother, of course. But I want to be with you too. You made me feel safe for the first time in months, we made home here for us and as much as I want to find my brother I don't want to lose what we have here too.” Daeyoung said and finally looked into Sion’s eyes.

Sion’s heart started beating faster. Was he interpreting Daeyoung's words right? 

And then, a smile spread across Daeyoung's face.

"So, yes." He said, his voice filled with hope and joy. 

“Yes?” 

"I want to stay with you here. I'd like that very much."

Sion's heart soared. He reached out and took Daeyoung's hand, squeezing it gently. "I promise," Sion said with as much sincerity he had. "I'll take care of you."

“I know.” Daeyoung smiled and squeezed Sion’s hand back. 

As they sat there, hand in hand, a sense of peace washed over them. 

They knew that their journey together had just begun, and they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. And when the time comes they would go to the world and find their families. Together.

《》

They moved through the city streets, their weapons raised, their senses heightened. A low growl echoed from a nearby alleyway, and a horde of undead emerged, their decaying forms lurching forward. 

"Ready?" Sion asked, his voice steady. 

Daeyoung nodded, a determined glint in his eyes. He smiled. "Let's do this."

They charged into the fray, their movements synchronized, their strikes deadly. Sion's strength and agility were a force to be reckoned with, while Daeyoung's intelligence and quick thinking guided their every move. They complimented each other perfectly and fought as if they trained together their whole life.

As they fought with the undead a strange sense of intimacy grew between them. They moved as one, their bodies and minds in perfect harmony. As a well oiled machine. A shared breath, a knowing glance - it was as if they could anticipate each other's next move. They didn't have to exchange words, when Sion struck from the above Daeyoung was there to hit from below and vice versa.

A perfect mix.

But of course it wasn't always that easy.

"Watch out!" Sion shouted, pushing Daeyoung out of the way of a particularly aggressive walker when the younger was too busy fighting off another one of the infected.

Sion pushed him away and with one swift motion of the ax beheaded the walker.

Daeyoung landed on his feet, his heart pounding. "Thanks." he said, his voice barely a whisper, looking up at the older.

Sion reached out his hand to help Daeyoung stand up and grinned. "Anytime."

As the last walker fell, they stood panting, their bodies covered in blood and dirt. A moment of silence passed between them, a shared understanding passing between their eyes. 

"We did it." Daeyoung said, his voice filled with relief. 

Sion nodded. "We did.” 

《》

The seasons have changed. They met when summer was coming to the end, then autumn flew by fast and now winter was welcoming them with its cold arms. They managed to find some winter clothes - some jackets, gloves and hats and we're preparing to survive the cold winter. 

Daeyoung shifted nervously, his eyes darting between the crackling fire and Sion's face. The library was silent, the only sound the wind whistling through the leaky windows. When it was spring and summer the library was a perfect shelter but during cold autumn night even the small fireplace was too little to warm the whole place.

Daeyoung cleared his throat, his voice barely a whisper.

"Sion, it's really cold out there. I was wondering... maybe we could... you know, sleep together on the mattress? To keep warm." 

Sion's heart pounded in his chest from where he was laying on his couch. This was it. The moment he'd dreamed of and dreaded at the same time. He could feel his face flushing, his palms sweating. Did Daeyoung just suggest sleeping with him? He wanted to say yes, to pull Daeyoung close and never let go. During the past weeks his silent crush blossomed. Sion harbored big feelings for Daeyoung, he still struggled to admit them out loud. A part of him was terrified, a fear he couldn't quite name. With every passing day his feelings for Daeyoung grew stronger but he couldn't figure out the ground he was standing on.

Sure, Daeyoung was a touchy person and sometimes even flirted with Sion too but Sion had no idea if the younger did this for fun or if he meant something more by this behavior. Sion was careful to not show his crush on the younger, he didn't want to spook him and destroy the perfect friendship they've built for the past months. He couldn't figure Daeyoung out. He was scared that if he saw something too soon Daeyoung wouldn't reciprocate his feelings and just leave him. And Sion did not want this scenario to come true. He wouldn't risk losing Daeyoung. Not after the younger agreed to stay with him.

"Sure.” He managed to say, after the internal battle he had in his mind, his voice barely a whisper. "That sounds like a good idea." He didn't want Daeyoung to suspect anything weird so he agreed to the younger’s boy idea but it didn't mean he was calm. He was panicking on the inside.

His mind raced. Sion didn't know how to feel. He was overjoyed and terrified all at once. He wanted to scream, to cry, to run away. But he stayed, his body frozen, his mind a whirlwind of emotions.

He felt like his body moved on his own. He got up from the couch and took his blanket with him. Daeyoung already scooped on his mattress making a space for the older. With a fast beating heart Sion laid down next to the boy, he instantly could feel the heat radiating from Daeyoung's body. The comforting sensation sent shivers down his spine. 

Daeyoung was right, it was warmer sleeping together.

“Are you comfortable?” Daeyoung whispered and Sion nodded.

“Yes.” He whispered back, breathlessly. Suddenly he felt Daeyoung's breath on his neck and the younger hands on his waist.

Daeyoung snuggled closer, his head resting on Sion's shoulder. His arms wrapped around Sion's waist, pulling him into a warm embrace.

"Is that okay?" Daeyoung asked, his voice soft and hesitant. “We will be warmer that way.”

Sion's heart pounded in his chest. This was it, the moment he'd been longing for. He was about to cuddle with a cute boy he liked. He hesitated for a moment, his mind racing, before finally responding.

"Yeah." He whispered, his voice barely audible. As he felt Daeyoung's warmth, he closed his eyes, savoring the moment. He wished he could freeze time, hold onto this feeling forever. With a trembling hand, he gently stroked Daeyoung's hair, his heart overflowing with a mix of joy and fear.

Sion savored the moment wishing it would last forever. But for now he was content to be simply in the younger’s embrace.

They fell asleep in a tight embrace, sharing warmth of their bodies. 

《》

Autumn passed and the winter wind howled outside, a relentless force that seemed to pierce through the library’s aging walls. Inside, however, a warmth had settled. 

Sion and Daeyoung had found a rhythm to their survival. Days were spent scavenging for supplies, melting snow for water, and tending to the small fire. Nights were spent huddled together on the mattress, the soft blanket a barrier against the biting cold. 

One day, Sion returned from his patrol, a small evergreen tree slung over his shoulder. Daeyoung raised an eyebrow from where he was sitting on the floor with a book in his hand. A wry smile playing on his lips. “Are you serious?” he asked.

Sion shrugged. “It’s Christmas time, isn’t it? We should have a tree.”

Daryoung looked at the calendar on the wall. Yes, it was the 20th of December already. They couldn't believe how much time have passed since they met.

Together, they decorated the tree with makeshift ornaments - a few colorful ribbons, some dried berries, and a few pages from an old book. It was a humble decoration, but it brought a sense of joy to the desolate library. They were laughing, singing old Christmas songs.

On Christmas Eve, they sat by the fire, a plate of canned ham between them. As they ate, their gaze drifted to the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree.

The fire crackled, casting dancing shadows on the library walls. Sion and Daeyoung sat side by side, a comfortable silence settling between them. 

"I miss my family.” Daeyoung confessed, his voice barely a whisper. "I wonder how my brother is doing." 

Sion nodded, understanding the weight of his words. "I miss my parents too. My annoying older brother too." He admitted and they both laughed at his comment. "I miss all the simple things, like a warm meal and a quiet night's sleep without worrying a fucking zombie will bite your head off."

They both laughed quietly at his words. 

“We really took these things for granted when we were younger, huh?” Daeyoung said and Sion couldn't help but agree. If he knew the world would go to shit he would try to be a better son and brother. He would definitely appreciate his family more and try to spend more time with them.

A long pause followed. The only sound was the soft crackling of the fire. 

"Do you think we would have met if all this hadn't happened?" Daeyoung asked, breaking the silence. 

Sion smiled, his eyes fixed on the flames. "I hope we would have." He replied. "Perhaps in a different time, a different place. But I'm glad our paths crossed here." 

Daeyoung chuckled, a light sound that filled the quiet room. "Maybe we would've met at a hospital." He mused. "I'd be a doctor, and you'd be a patient - a writer who sprained his wrist from writing too much."

Sion laughed, the sound warm and genuine. He liked the image Daeyoung painted. A world of possibilities, a world where they could be ordinary people, living ordinary lives. It was a comforting thought, a beacon of hope in the darkness of their reality. He imagined how simple it would be. 

The picture was almost perfect. A messy writer coming to the hospital and being awestruck by the doctor's Kim beauty. It would be a possible scenario. Maybe in a different universe.

"I hate this world." Sion admitted, his voice barely a whisper. "A world where we have to fight almost everyday just to survive.” He paused, his gaze fixed on the flickering flames. "But... I'm glad I got to meet you, Daeyoung." 

The younger one blushed, his face turning a deep shade of red. "I'm glad too. You have no idea how happy I am that I've met you.” He murmured, his voice barely audible but a sincere smile playing on his lips.

A soft smile spread across Sion’s face, his body filled with warmth. “Merry Christmas, Daeyoung-ah.” He said.

Daeyoung returned the smile, reaching across the table to take Sion’s hand. “Merry Christmas, Sion.”

In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of the fireplace and the company of the other, Sion felt a sense of peace he hadn’t known in a long time.

《》

As the days grew longer and the sun warmed the earth, a sense of hope began to bloom within the library's walls. The once-frozen landscape was now a patchwork of vibrant greens and delicate wildflowers. Daeyoung and Sion spent their days tending to the library, repairing the damage caused by the harsh winter. They patched up the leaky roof, replaced broken window panes, and reinforced the doors against potential threats.

Their days were filled with a mix of labor and quiet moments. They would often sit by the window, watching the world awaken from its slumber. Birdsong filled the air, a stark contrast to the eerie silence that had once dominated their lives.

《》 

"Another day, another dollar," Sion sighed, stretching his weary limbs. "Or rather, another day, another horde of the undead."

They just entered the library after fighting another group of walkers that wandered on the street of the city. It seemed the number of undead were increasing every week. 

Daeyoung chuckled, a sound that was both bitter and hopeful. "It's a strange world we live in, isn't it? Its been so long since the outbreak happened but I'm still surprised this is our reality now.”

Sion nodded, his gaze fixed on the fireplace where he was about to light the fire. "I never thought I'd see a day like this. A world overrun by the dead, where survival is the only goal. We've faced countless dangers, and we've always come out stronger.”

"That was beautifully put together, you really are a poet, huh?” Daeyoung said and giggled when Sion rolled his eyes. But it was fond. Daeyoung liked teasing the older and Sion always let him because Daeyoung was cute when he was happy. Talk about being whipped. 

“But we've lived." Daeyoung pointed out.

Sion turned to him, a soft smile playing on his lip. “And we will for a long time.” A short promise Sion was determined to fulfill.

A comfortable silence fell between them as they finished making their beds. The crackling fire filled the room, creating a sense of peace and security.

"I wonder what the future holds for us.” Daeyoung mused, breaking the silence. "Will we ever find a way to return to normal?"

Sion shook his head. "I don't know. But I do know that as long as we're together, we can face anything."

“That's right.” Daeyoung smiled. 

They stood in silence for a few seconds, looking at each other until Sion broke eye contact and cleared his throat. Moments like this between him and Daeyoung made him flustered. And by ‘moments like this’ he meant the time when they would talk about the future together.

Because Sion really wanted a future with Daeyoung.

《》

But all that’s good comes to an end. The city was small and there weren't many shops, also there wasn't clean water nearby and slowly their supplies were running out. 

Sion's stomach rumbled, a constant reminder of their dwindling supplies. A single bottle of water and a half-eaten energy bar were all that remained. His gaze drifted to Daeyoung, who sat by the window, lost in thought.

"We can't last much longer like this." Sion muttered, his voice barely audible.

Daeyoung looked up, his eyes reflecting the grim reality. "You're right.” he said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "There's actually something I've been thinking of for some time. It's nothing much but it'll give us some time to figure things out.”

Sion watched, intrigued, as Daeyoung rummaged through a pile of discarded items. Through weeks when they were out Daeyoung gathered a bunch of random stuff, claiming they could be useful in the future. Sion didn't think much of it at that time but now he was glad Daeyoung collected some very useful things.

Daeyoung emerged with an old plastic bottle, a handful of stones, and a length of wire. Then he went out of the library, Sion following him curiously like a small puppy. With a steady hand, Daeyoung began working next to a drain pipe and then it hit him. Jaehee bagan to fashion a rudimentary water filter.

As Daeyoung worked, Sion couldn't help but admire his ingenuity. He had seen Daeyoung in action before, his quick thinking and resourcefulness often saving them from perilous situations. But this, this was something else. Daeyoung was in med school, yes, he was incredibly smart but Sion thought his area of ​​knowledge included mainly biology and chemistry. Clearly he was wrong.

Daeyoung attached the filter to the gutter outside the window, securing it with the wire. As rainwater began to trickle through, Sion couldn't believe his eyes. A lifeline, a beacon of hope in the midst of despair. He just saw Daeyoung in a completely different light. He was already perfect in Sion’s eyes but seeing him making an engineering device made him even more charming than he already was.

"You're a genius." Sion exclaimed, his voice filled with awe.

Daeyoung blushed, a rare sight on his usually stoic face. "It's nothing." He mumbled, his eyes darting away. Shy Daeyoung was really cute. He was a humble guy and didn't know how to react to compliments but Sion was adamant on praising him.

Sion chuckled. "Nothing? You just saved our lives, Daeyoung. You're incredible."

Daeyoung smiled, a genuine expression of warmth.

"We need to think about long-term solutions." Daeyoung said, a thoughtful expression on his face. "We can't rely on scavenging forever. But now we'll have our own water supply. Luckily it rains quite often in this area."

Sion nodded, his stomach growling in agreement. "You're right. We need to find a way to sustain ourselves."

"What if we drive to the next city?" Daeyoung suggested. "We could find more fuel, and maybe even some seeds, pots, and other gardening supplies. We could start a garden on the rooftop."

Sion's eyes lit up. "A rooftop garden? That's a brilliant idea.” The older agreed almost instantly but then he thought about riding out so far away. “But I'm not sure. The next city is probably a few kilometers away and the journey could be dangerous." Sion said.

It was true. They didn't know what was hiding beyond the village’s limits. It could be nothing but it also could be a horde of walkers just waiting for them to come out. Sion wasn't sure if he wanted to risk their lives like this.

"We'd have to be careful, of course. " Daeyoung added. "But it could be our ticket to survival. What other choice do we have anyway? We searched every corner of this village, we found everything here we could've found already. If we don't reach further we will just die out of hunger."

Sion sighed. Daeyoung was right. They didn't have much of a choice. Their supplies were running out, of course they could hunt, but it took too long and there were no large animals in the forest around. If they were lucky, they managed to hunt a large hare and that was it. In recent months they have searched all houses, gardens and shops in the city. They went to attics, basements and searched compartments in abandoned cars. Just as Daeyoung said - they found what they could find a long time ago. 

Sion sighed.

"Okay, let's do it. We'll need to plan carefully and be prepared for anything. But let's do this. It's our only chance.”

《》

They decided to go to the closest city in two days. The library provided them with all the information they needed. They found maps of the area and marked the closest located city, they found books about gardening, DIY guides and other necessary books that could help. They geared up, packed up all necessary equipment in the trunk and when the sun came out they immediately set off on their expedition.

Surprisingly their journey wasn't as long as they expected. It also wasn't as dangerous as Sion initially thought it would be. They drove fastly in the car, almost no undead on the road. In an hour they crossed the borders of the neighboring town. Like the town the library was located in, this town also looked ruined. The army probably also fought here. Terrifying silence, abandoned cars and demolished buildings surrounded them. Another ghost town on the map of Korea.

They were lucky. They found a gardening shop just a few streets along the road. Sion parked the car and they went out. 

“Let's take a look inside. I'll go first, cover me.” Sion said and Daeyoung nodded, holding his baseball bat harder. Very often their field trips looked like this. Sion was older and more experienced in survival, so he often took the lead and Daeyoung covered him and carried out the orders. It worked perfectly that way and Daeyoung trusted Sion’s leadership skills. The elder has never let him down.

They entered the small shop looking around. At first everything looked clear. Until it didn't.

“Sion, watch out!” Daeyoung exclaimed when a walker emerged from the backroom. “Get down!” Daeyoung yelled and when Sion dodged Daeyoung swung his bat straight into the infected's head. 

The body fell down on the floor, dead for good.

Daeyoung was panting. “Hyung, are you okay?” He asked Sion and helped him get up. The older one smiled.

“Yeah, I'm glad you watched my back.”

Daeyoung smiled. “Anytime. Now let's take a look around.”

Luckily they managed to find all the gardening tools and seeds without encountering more walkers. That one Daeyoung killed earlier appeared to be the owner of the store that stayed behind. 

They left the store with their hands full of shovels, rakes, gloves, fertilizers, flowers, fruit and vegetable seeds. They had so many things so if their plan succeeded, they would be 100% self-sufficient. 

“Should we find more fuel too?” Daeyoung asked and Sion nodded. That was a good idea. They tried to not use their car that much and they still had a few canisters of fuel in the library but a greater amount was always appreciated. So they found an abandoned small gas station. At first glance it was empty, but they managed to find a few canisters of gasoline scattered inside. Little, but always something.

Then they also checked every car in the empty city and drained the fuel from wherever they could. They had enough. They also found more canned food and sweets (Daeyoung was particularly happy about it). 

They packed everything in the truck and entered the car.

“Let's go home.” Sion smiled.

“Let's go.” Daeyoung nodded and they drove away. 

And then it happened.

As they rounded a bend, a horrifying scene unfolded before their eyes. A group of four young men, their faces etched with fear, were desperately fighting off a horde of walkers. Their movements were frantic, their defenses weakening with each passing moment, they were sitting on the top of a big truck but the undead were trying to get them. The boys were terrified, they were screaming and hitting the undead with some old pipes but all in vain. They were outnumbered.

“We need to help them!” Daeyoung said and without hesitation jumped out of the car with his baseball bat ready.

“Shit.” Sion murmured and ran out after Daeyoung. It wasn't a thought out decision but he couldn't leave Daeyoung alone.

Sion and Daeyoung charged into the fray. Their years of survival had honed their skills, and they moved with a deadly efficiency. With each strike, an infected fell, its lifeless form adding to the growing pile. The boys were surprised to see two unknown men helping them but they did everything to help with the fight. They punched from above and threw all the things they had.

It was hard but Sion and Daeyoung fought fiercely. 

The four survivors, their eyes wide with shock and gratitude, watched as Sion and Daeyoung dispatched the undead.

When the last walker was defeated, a heavy silence descended. The only thing that could be heard was Daeyoung and Sion’s panting. They were tired, their muscles hurt and they were covered in blood.

“Are you okay?” Sion immediately asked Daeyoung, taking his head in his hands and examining the younger’s face. Daeyoung smiled softly between panting.

“Yeah, I'm alright. You?” He asked and Sion smiled, relieved that the younger wasn't hurt.

“Never better.” 

They laughed quietly and turned their attention to the four unknown men that were now jumping from the trunk. When all of them were on the ground one of them bowed almost ninety degrees. 

"Thank you." One of the survivors said, his voice trembling. He had a thick accent, Sion noticed. Probably Japanese. "We owe you our lives."

Sion and Daeyoung exchanged a glance. "No problem." Sion replied, his voice gruff.

The four survivors introduced themselves: Yushi, Ryo, and Sakuya. The one who thanked them was named Riku. They explained that they were Japanese exchange students, Yushi and Riku were in college while Ryo and Sakuya who were seventeen went to international high school. Sadly they had been caught in the outbreak and with the airports shut down, they had no way to return home. 

“Since we don't have a way to go back home we've been stuck in Korea.” Yushi explained. “We've been hiding in the woods for some time but we had to find food and we decided to go to the nearest city to look around.” 

“Clearly not a good idea.” Riku laughed but his voice was free of any humor. They all sounded so defeated. 

Sion looked at the youngest two boys who were standing next to each other holding hands. They were dirty, their clothes ripped. They just looked sad.

"We could use the help." Suddenly Daeyoung said, his voice thoughtful. "And you're welcome to stay with us."

Sion looked at Daeyoung in shock. What was the younger even doing? Yes, they helped them but Sion wasn't intending to let the four men stay with them. They didn't know them at all and even if they looked quite innocent you could never trust a stranger. Especially in this world. He wasn't going to agree and he was adamant on letting Daeyoung know. So he put his hand on Daeyoung’s shoulder and turned to the boys who were looking at them with big eyes.

Great, Daeyoung already made them hopeful.

“Excuse me, I need to discuss something with my friend first.” And with that he took Daeyoung a few meters away from the group so that they wouldn't hear their conversation. When he was sure the distance was enough he turned to Daeyoung, his jaw clenched. He was angry.

“We can't take them in." Sion argued, his voice low. "We barely have enough supplies for ourselves. Do you think we will be able to feed all of us? Also we don't know them, didn't you think about it?” The older man tried to contain his emotion but it was hard. 

He knew Daeyoung had a soft heart and was a good person but he was mad. Daeyoung didn't think at all.

Daeyoung, undeterred, countered. "We can't turn them away. They're desperate, just like we were." He argued and Sion just rolled his eyes.

"You're too trusting." Sion snapped, his voice low. He really tried to not raise his tone. “You can't let anyone in, without a second thought."

Daeyoung, calm as ever, met his gaze. "We were once in their position, Sion. We were lost, scared, and alone. I was in their position and you took me in.” Daeyoung folded his hands on his chest, not backing up at all.

Sion clenched his fist. He was irritated. He was a good guy and he liked helping people. But times have changed. Yes, a few months earlier he indeed helped Daeyoung but he was also alone and desperate for company. Now Sion wasn't going to risk their safety to save random boys from the street. He wasn't going to risk Daeyoung's safety.

“That was different. You were alone and injured. These are four men we don't know. If they have bad intentions and try something we'll be outnumbered.” He reasoned, not backing out from the argument either.

But Daeyoung just shook his head and pointed at the four boys in the back. They were watching them with curious eyes, probably knowing what Sion and Daeyoung were arguing about. They probably felt like they were convicted waiting for the judges’ decision to spare their lives. He felt sorry for them but Sion wasn't about to risk everything they've built for them.

“Look at them, they're just teenagers! It's our duty to help." Daeyoung raised his voice. His tone was desperate, it was clear he already cared about those strangers’ lives. But Sion wasn't having any of it.

"Duty?" Sion scoffed. "Our duty is to survive. To protect ourselves. These people are a liability, a risk we don't need."

Daeyoung sighed, his patience wearing thin. "I can't recognize you, Sion. Where is the man that helped me without thinking when I was in need? You can't let fear dictate your actions…”

"Fear keeps us alive.” Sion retorted. 

"At what cost?" Daeyoung asked, his voice rising. "At the cost of our humanity? Our compassion?"

Sion was silent for a moment, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and sadness. "You're naive, Daeyoung. This world is cruel. It doesn't care about kindness or empathy."

"Perhaps not." Daeyoung replied softly. "But I do.”

“I won't risk strangers in our home. We helped them already with the walkers, they're a big group, they'll be fine.” The older man stood his ground and Daeyoung sighed.

"Sion." Daeyoung began, his voice soft but firm. "I know you're not happy with the situation, but we can't just abandon them."

Sion scoffed, not bothering to look up. "They're fine. They can fend for themselves."

Daeyoung's patience was wearing thin. "Is that really what you think? Do you think they can survive out there, alone and unprotected? We just had to save them from a group of walkers!"

"That's their problem." Sion replied dismissively.

A wave of anger washed over Daeyoung. He had tried to be understanding, to compromise, but Sion was being unreasonable. "Fine." he said, his voice steady. "If that's how you feel, then so be it. We'll leave. You can have your precious solitude."

Sion's head snapped up, surprise etched on his face. "What?"

He was sure he misheard it. Daeyoung was kidding, he wouldn't do it. Sion looked the younger in the eyes trying to find a low but all he could find was a determined look.

Daeyoung wasn't joking. He really was ready to leave if Sion wouldn't agree.

“You're kidding.” Sion whispered, stunned. Daeyoung bit his lip.

“I'm not.”

“You can't be serious!” Sion raised his voice. “Not after we build a life together! We promised to be together, we promised to find our families! We-” His voice cracked. “We were supposed to survive together, you can't just leave.” He whispered looking at Daeyoung. 

His heart was beating so fast Sion felt like his chest was about to explode. But Daeyoung didn't care.

"We'll leave." Daeyoung repeated. His voice trembled a little, he was now shaking.  "The five of us. We'll find a new place, a place where we're welcome. You can stay in the library if you want but I want to help them. I will do it with or without you. So make your decision.”

Sion was speechless. He realized, in that moment, how much he had taken Daeyoung's presence for granted. He had let his fear and mistrust cloud his judgment. But Daeyoung was ready to leave. 

Sion was speechless. He just blinked trying to comprehend Daeyoung's words but the younger one took his silence as an answer. 

Daeyoung swallowed and nodded with a sad smile when Sion didn't say anything.

“Okay then.” He whispered and turned around but before he could walk away Sion reached for his hand.

"Wait!” He said, his voice barely a whisper, filled with desperation. He took the younger's hand and squeezed it. "Don't go. Please.. Don't go anywhere.” The older one practically begged. He couldn't lose Daeyoung. Not after they promised each other to survive together. 

Daeyoung paused. "I know it's not easy but I can't leave them. Not after I left my brother before too. I wouldn't forgive myself.” He whispered, not looking at Sion.

“I know.” Sion murmured. Daeyoung had a big heart. Even if the other boys wouldn't come with them, Daeyoung wouldn't be able to forgive himself. He already bore so much guilt because of his older brother, he wouldn't handle more. And Sion knew that.

Sion sighed. “Fine. Fine, they can stay with us.”

Daeyoung looked up.

“Really?” Daeyoung asked and Sion didn't have any strength to fight anymore. He just nodded.

“Thank you.” The younger whispered.

With that, Daeyoung walked away, leaving Sion alone with his thoughts. It was clear the younger one was angry at him but to be honest Sion was angry at Daeyoung too. And he hated that feeling. It's been months since they knew each other, weeks since Sion realized he had a crush on the younger but they never fought like this before. All feelings he had about Daeyoung were positive and suddenly they argued. And about strangers and their safety of all the things they could fight about.

It felt weird.

Sion had no idea what to feel, what to do. Even if he was angry at Daeyoung for being too trusting he couldn't bear the thought of losing him. So he just sucked it up. They made the decision for the boys to stay with them, and that's fine. But now Sion was about to do everything in his power to make them not regret their decision and make sure Daeyoung stayed safe.

He saw Daeyoung talking with the boys, their scared faces turned into smiles and one of them even hugged Daeyoung. They were probably relieved but Sion just couldn't let his guard down. Not yet. 

He took a big breath and approached the boys.

“I guess Daeyoung informed you of what we agreed on.” He asked the boys, not looking at Daeyoung. There was now uncomfortable tension between them. They fought for the first time so it was understandable but it still felt weird. 

“Yes.” One of the boys answered, Yushi if Sion remembered correctly. “I swear we will help with whatever you want. You won't regret this.” The younger one said and the rest nodded at his words.

“I hope so.” Sion murmured. “Now get on the back of the truck. It's getting late, we need to go if we want to come to the library before the sun goes down.” He said and entered the driver seat. 

Daeyoung took a seat next to him, still not looking at Sion and one of the boys sat next to Daeyoung, the youngest, Sakuya was his name. The rest of the group sat on the outside trunk with the rest of the supplies Sion and Daeyoung gathered. 

Sion turned on the car and the group took to the road.

The car ride home was silent.

《》

Reluctantly, Sion agreed for the boys to stay, but his skepticism was clear.

As the four newcomers settled in the library Sion couldn't help but observe their behavior.

The usually quiet room was now abuzz with activity. Riku, Yushi, Ryo, and Sakuya, wide-eyed with wonder, explored the vast expanse of bookshelves, looked around all the backrooms and bathed in the warmth of the fireplace. Daeyoung, patient as always, explained everything with a smile on his face. He was like a tour guide, showing the boys around.

Sion, meanwhile, sat in a secluded corner, observing the scene with a mixture of annoyance and curiosity. He couldn't deny the joy on the boys' faces, the spark of hope ignited in their eyes. He knew they were happy to be with other people safe and sound in the four walls of the library. Yet, a part of him still resented their presence, a lingering fear that they would somehow disrupt the fragile peace he had found. He was scared their innocence was just a facade and their true colors would show later making them regret their decision.

As Daeyoung spoke, his voice soft and soothing, Sion couldn't help but listen. He watched as the boys hung onto Daeyoung's every word, their faces a canvas of awe and admiration. It was then that Sion began to understand the profound impact Daeyoung had on others, the way he could inspire and uplift.

“The place is amazing.” Riku said in awe after exploring the whole library. 

“Thank you, we tried to make it as cozy as possible.” Daeyoung answered with a proud smile.

Sion's heart squeezed at Daeyoung's words. We . It was their home. But now Sion had to share the space with four strangers. It felt weird. Unsettling, even.

“It was a long day.” Sion said, his first words after they entered the library. Everybody's attention was now on him. “We should clean up and go to sleep. Tonight you'll sleep here on the poufs, later we will find you some mattresses. I'll keep the watch first today.” 

All the boys nodded and started gathering their things without questions. 

Daeyoung and Sion exchanged subtle glances but before Sion could say anything Jaehee disappeared in the hallways with the rest of the boys. 

Sion sighed. He took his ax and sat on the windowsill looking at empty streets. 

The next few weeks were going to be interesting.

《》

For the next few days Sion observed the boys. 

The new residents didn't seem to feel awkward compared to Sion. They quickly felt at home. Sion didn't blame them, even though he was still distant and even cold sometimes, Daeyoung was very welcoming and quickly bonded with the newcomers. It turned out the boys were a quite interesting bunch of individuals.

Tokuno Yushi, the eldest, was a quiet observer. He moved with a deliberate grace, his words carefully chosen. He was really handsome, his black hair a beautiful contrast with the pale complexion of his skin. His demeanor was reminiscent of Daeyoung's, he was calm and collected, they were quite similar in that sense. His Korean, though accented, was fluent, a testament to the years he had spent in Korea.

Maeda Riku was definitely the most extroverted of the group, a whirlwind of energy. He spoke rapidly, his words tumbling over each other as he shared stories and asked countless questions. His laughter was infectious, and his carefree attitude was a stark contrast to the grim reality of the world. His Korean was peppered with slang and colloquialisms, a sign of his immersion in Korean culture. Just like Yushi, he was incredibly handsome, slightly tanned, his black hair was on the longer side, he had  big eyes and a Cheshire smile with a set of perfect white teeth. He somewhat resembled a cat, Sion thought.

Hirose Ryo, one of the youngest of the group, was quite shy and observant but he was a bright kid. He preferred to listen rather than speak, his eyes darting around the library, taking in every detail curiously. He was very innocent and amazed by everything. He seemed to be very polite but Sion felt like under that innocent facade a true little devil was hidden. Ryo's Korean was hesitant, but he spoke with confidence when necessary. Sion was glad. He took some Japanese lessons when he was in college so he could speak a little but he wasn't fluent so he was glad communication with the foreigners wasn't as hard as he imagined.

And there was the last one of the bunch. Fujinaga Sakuya, the other youngest, was a curious mix of innocence and craziness. His deep voice belied his youthful appearance, and his wide eyes sparkled with mischief. He was quick-witted and often found himself joking with Riku, lightening up the mood. His Korean was surprisingly fluent, a result of his time spent in Korea. He was the little devil on Ryo’s arm, Sion saw how his persuading skills worked on the other youngest. 

Sion found them quite cute but he wasn't going to say it out loud. He still didn't trust them.

The Japanese worked well together and surprisingly matched with Daeyoung and Sion very well. Sion was still not very trusting but after a few days he couldn't help but put his guard down slightly. It really seemed the boys wanted to become friends and help them. 

The reading room, once a place of quiet contemplation, was now a hive of activity. Before they used it to store their supplies but with new people around they decided to change it into a big bedroom. They found mattresses and some pillows and even some well fitting clothes. They tried to make the boys have their own spaces, especially for the youngests.

Daeyoung and Sion worked side by side, moving furniture and rearranging bookshelves to create a makeshift living space for the newcomers. The rest was outside, Riku was on the watch, Yushi in the main room reading while Sakuya and Ryo were running around the library having fun.

"Are you still mad at me?" Sion asked, his voice barely a whisper cutting through the silence.

He couldn't handle it anymore, he needed to make things clear with Daeyoung. He didn't like the tension between them and wanted to fix it. They didn't speak a lot and it drove Sion mad. Of course they exchanged a few words here and there, mostly about going out for a hunt or just exchanging pleasantries in the morning. But it wasn't what Sion was used to. For months they were together alone and they bonded so much, they talked about everything, shared secrets and worries but also so many intimate moments (Sion still remembered then hugging at night during the winter, unspoken feelings between them). It wasn't normal for him and Daeyoung to not talk, Sion needed to fix it.

Daeyoung paused, a soft smile playing on his lips. "I wasn't mad, Sion. Just disappointed." He said.

Sion's face flushed. "I know. I was being selfish."

"We all make mistakes. I wasn't fair to you either and I'm sorry too.” Daeyoung replied, understandingly. "The important thing is to learn from them."

Sion nodded, his gaze fixed on the floor. "I'm trying."

"I know you are." Daeyoung reassured him. He went up to Sion and put his hand on his shoulder.  "And I appreciate your effort. You're an amazing leader, you may be not aware of this but the boys look up to you a lot. I look up to you a lot.” 

Sion smiled softly at this. Things were awkward between them for the last few days and Sion was glad that Daeyoung wasn't mad at him anymore. 

A comfortable silence fell between them as they continued their task. The soft glow of the lamplight cast long shadows across the room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. For a moment, it felt like the world outside didn't exist, and they were simply two friends working together. 

Sion was relieved. Everything would turn out all right.

《》

Sion sat alone in the backroom of the library, the silence heavy and oppressive. He replayed Daeyoung's words in his mind. He had been so self-absorbed, so focused on his own needs, that he had forgotten the importance of compassion and empathy. As the oldest of the bunch he should've been a guide, he should've set an example, especially to the youngests. But it was still so hard.

A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. It was Riku, his face etched with concern. "Is everything alright, Sion?" he asked. “You didn't come out to eat so I thought I'll check up on you.”

Sion hesitated, then nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just thinking." He replied honestly. 

"About us?" Riku asked, his voice soft. There wasn't a sight of hesitancy. Riku was as blunt as ever. He really was quite observing.

Sion sighed. There was no point in lying. Also Riku was the second eldest, they could talk like adults. They really needed to talk.

"Yeah, about us. About you, Yushi, Ryo, and Sakuya." Sion admitted.

Riku's eyes widened. "You're not... you're not going to kick us out, right?" He asked, this time a little hesitant. The boys already felt at home, it was clear they wanted to stay for good. Hell, they even had their own room now while Daeyoung and Sion slept in the main room. Sion knew these boys weren't going anywhere in the near future.

"No.” Sion replied, his voice barely audible. "I won't. You can stay."

Riku's face lit up with relief. "Thank you, Sion. I promise we won't be a burden."

Sion nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I know you won't. And I'm starting to realize that maybe, just maybe, having you all here isn't so bad after all." He replied. 

Sion was surprised at his words when he realized they were true. Having the Japanese around really lit up the mood. Staying with Daeyoung was amazing but with other people with them it felt like the world didn't go to shit. That there were still good people out there.

As Riku left, Sion was filled with a sense of peace he hadn't felt in a long time. He knew he still had a long way to go, but he was taking the first step towards a better future.

《》

Things between Daeyoung and Sion were slowly getting better and better with time. The weather changed, spring slowly got hotter and summer came. They had only a few weeks to prepare for the cold autumn and winter and the boys started getting stressed. They already had a few pots with cucumbers and potatoes but they needed more vegetables to be somewhat healthy.

Daeyoung and Sion, armed with shovels and gardening gloves, were attempting to transform the barren concrete pots into a lush, green oasis to have fresh food during the next few months but it was easier said than done.

“This is harder than it looks.” Sion grumbled, his back aching. He was digging the ground in the pot for a few hours and he realized he was getting old. It didn't help that they were on the rooftop of the library where the wind was stronger.

Daeyoung chuckled. “Rome wasn’t built in a day, Sion.” He said and Sion couldn't help but laugh in the middle of the crisis.

“I think it'll be too cold for the seeds in autumn. Right now it's okay but in a few months we might’ve a problem.” Daeyoung murmured when they felt another cold gust of wind on their backs. 

Just as they were beginning to lose hope, a familiar figure approached. Yushi, his face a mix of determination and excitement, offered his assistance. “I used to garden with my grandmother in Japan.” He explained. “I'm not an expert but I know a thing or two about plants.”

Sion and Daeyoung exchanged a grateful look. With Yushi's guidance, they began to make progress. The barren rooftop started to take shape, the once lifeless concrete now dotted with small seedlings.

As they worked, Riku joined them and ever the optimist had a suggestion. “We could build a glass greenhouse.” He said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “It would protect the plants from the harsh weather.”

Sion was impressed. Why didn't he think of it before? “You think you can do that?”

Riku nodded confidently. “I’ve seen it done before. We just need some glass and a sturdy frame. We got tools to build it already so if we gather materials we could build it in a few hours.”

The idea ignited a spark in Sion. 

“That's a great idea, Riku.” Sion said. “I'll go with you to the city, there are many buildings in which the windows are intact. We can take the glass from there.” He said and instantly got up from the floor.

He also didn't miss the smile on Daeyoung's face. Oh, right. That was the first time Sion willingly wanted to work alone with one of the newcomers. We're they even newcomers at that point? Daeyoung was probably happy Sion let go of his grudges and slowly started trusting the Japanese boys. Sion looked away with a soft blush. 

“Let's go before it gets darker.” He said to Riku.

Perhaps, with a little ingenuity and a lot of hard work, they could create something truly extraordinary.

《》

Sion had initially been skeptical about the newcomers. Their sudden arrival had disrupted the peaceful solitude he and Jaehee had cultivated. However, as time passed, his reservations began to fade. He was impressed by their resilience, their determination to survive. Yushi's quiet wisdom and Riku's boundless energy were a refreshing change from the monotony of their daily existence.

The younger two, Ryo and Sakuya, brought a much-needed lightness to their lives. Their youthful behavior was contagious, and their constant banter provided a welcome distraction from the harsh realities of the world. Sion found himself smiling more often, laughing more freely. 

The boys proved to be invaluable assets. They were skilled gardeners, transforming the rooftop into a thriving oasis. They were also adept fighters, defending the library against the relentless attacks of the undead. And they were resourceful, scavenging for supplies and keeping the group well-stocked. They were making a good team.

As he watched the group work together, a sense of belonging washed over Sion. He had found a new family, a community that cared for him. And he realized that Daeyoung had been right all along. Trusting others, opening his heart to new possibilities, had enriched his life in ways he never thought possible. 

Sion had to admit, he was wrong. He had underestimated the power of human connection, the importance of hope, and the enduring nature of friendship.

《》

The library was quiet, the only sound was the soft crackling of the fire. It was late, Yushi was keeping watch outside while Ryo, Riku and Sakuya were in their room. Daeyoung went out of their small bathroom after a shower. Shower was actually too much, they used two baskets and the small sink in the bathroom to clean up themselves. It wasn't easy at first but with months of practice they got used to it. The younger smiled softly when he saw Sion.

Sion was sitting by a small table, his notebook opened, pen in hand. He was writing. It was nice to see. Daeyoung always encouraged him to do so, to get back to his passion and finally Sion was back in his creative space.

When Sion saw Daeyoung exiting the bathroom, his hair wet and towel around his neck he couldn't help but smile. He looked so cozy like this, cleaned up and ready to sleep.

Daeyoung slowly approached Sion and stood behind him.

“What are you doing?” Daeyoung asked.

“Writing.” Sion answered and the younger one rolled his eyes.

“I can see that but what are you writing?” He asked and sat down next to him. He saw Sion’s notebook being filled with letters and random sentences in Korean, English and Japanese and then it hit him. He looked up at Sion with eyes big in curiosity. 

“You're learning Japanese?” He asked, kinda breathless.

Sion couldn't help but blush. The intensity of Daeyoung's eyes was making him shy.

“Yes. My Japanese is not bad since I studied it a little in university but it doesn't hurt to study more, right? I want to talk with the boys without any trouble.” The older man answered truthfully.

“That's.. that's so nice of you.” Daeyoung mumbled and turned away, head bowing. Sion furrowed his brows confused. It looked like something was on Daeyoung's mind, bothering him.

“Hey, you okay?” Sion asked putting his hand on Daeyoung’s arm. The younger suddenly looked up, his eyes filled with gratitude.

"Thank you." He said simply.

Sion, surprised by the sincerity in Daeyoung's voice, tilted his head. "For what?"

"For letting them stay." Daeyoung replied. "I know it wasn't easy for you."

Sion hesitated. The sincerity in Daeyoung's voice pulled at his heartstrings. 

 "It wasn't about ease. It was about... well, it's complicated."

Daeyoung smiled. "I understand. But I appreciate it nonetheless. You've shown a lot of growth, Sion. I'm really grateful."

Sion was taken aback by the compliment. He hadn't realized how much he had changed. But Daeyoung was right all along. Perhaps, he thought, there was still hope for humanity, even in this bleak world. He wasn't going to deny the truth. The four boys were good people and Sion started to like them.

“It's fine, they've grown on me.” Sion shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant.

Daeyoung smiled and took Sion's hand in his, interviewing their fingers.

Sion's heart pounded like a drum. As Daeyoung leaned in, a rush of emotions washed over him. There was excitement, anticipation, and a touch of fear. He had longed for this moment, yearned for Daeyoung's touch, but now that it was within reach, a wave of doubt crept in.

Why was Daeyoung so close? Was they about to kiss? 

He thought about the risks, the potential consequences of their actions. In a world ravaged by the undead, love was a luxury, a dangerous indulgence. Yet, he couldn't deny the pull, the magnetic force that drew him to Daeyoung. He wanted to kiss Daeyoung. He wanted to kiss him so bad for months now, it physically hurt.

As Daeyoung's lips neared his, Sion closed his eyes, surrendering to the moment. He was ready to embrace the unknown.

And then Daeyoung hugged him. 

Sion wanted to be disappointed but he couldn't. Not when Daeyoung's body felt so warm against him. He wrapped his arms around the younger and hid his face in his shoulders.

“I'm sorry for saying I'll leave that day. It wasn't fair to you.” Daeyoung whispered. His voice was quiet and shaking. “It was an asshole move.”

They pulled back. Daeyoung bit his lip and looked away. “I'm really sorry, I know you don't want to be alone and I knew if I said I'll leave you'll agree to let the boys stay. That was very unfair.” 

Sion smiled softly. He wasn't mad at Daeyoung anymore. He wasn't for a long time already. “It's okay. You wanted to help the guys and I was also stubborn at that time. Your feelings took the best of you but I understand. I'm not mad.” 

Daeyoung sighed.

“I'm really sorry. I don't deserve you. You should be mad at me.” He mumbled playing with their fingers. Sion looked at their hands, Daeyoung's long slim fingers matched perfectly with his own. He couldn't help but smile at the sight. He wanted to hold Daeyoung's hand forever.

Sion shook his head. 

“I could never be mad at you I l-” Sion stopped. No, he wasn't ready to cross that line yet. For a second he thought about confessing. They were alone, the atmosphere was cozy. It was practically a perfect moment to be honest and say everything to the younger. “I'm just happy we are together.”

“I'm happy too.” Daeyoung whispered. “I'm happy to be with them. But most importantly, I'm happy to be with you…”

A moment of intense eye contact passed between them. Daeyoung leaned in, his breath warm against Sion's lips. A spark ignited between them, a tension that had been building for months. Again, there was hope in Sion’s heart. Perhaps that was the moment they crossed the invisible physical boundaries.

Just as their lips were about to touch, the library door burst open. Ryo and Sakuya, their faces flushed with excitement, rushed in. Sion and Daeyoung jumped apart from each other, alarmed when something happened. Sion was about to reach for his ax.

Luckily it wasn't the case.

"We found something amazing!" Ryo exclaimed, his voice full of energy.

Sakuya nodded enthusiastically, his arm thrown around his best friend. "You need to come and see!"

Daeyoung and Sion exchanged a sheepish glance, their intimate moment interrupted. They couldn't help but smile at the boys' enthusiasm. The two youngest were just too cute.

"Well, what are we waiting for?" Daeyoung said, rising to his feet. "Let's go check it out." 

As they followed the boys outside, Sion couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation. He knew that their moment would come again, and when it did, he would be ready.

《》

The youngest members of the group, Sakuya and Ryo, were a bundle of energy. Maybe because Sion was the oldest and they awakened this motherly instinct inside of him but he was very fond of these two in particular. They were always eager to help and trailed behind like two small puppies. 

Their wide-eyed curiosity was both endearing and slightly irritating, especially when they started peppering Sion with questions. Like at this moment.

"So, are you and Daeyoung, like, together?" Sakuya asked, his voice barely a whisper. They were going to the forest to get some wood for the fireplace and the youngests decided to accompany Sion, which he was glad. 

But after hearing Sakuya’s question Sion started to regret his decision.

Sion raised an eyebrow at the sudden question trying to appear calm. "No, we're not." 

In reality he was nervous. He thought he was good at hiding his feelings for Daeyoung but it seemed the two youngest caught him. After all, they were smarter than they looked. Not to mention they did see Sion and Daeyoung getting cozy in the library a few days earlier.

Ryo, ever the persistent one, chimed in. "But do you like him, hyung?" He playfully pushed Sion's shoulder and made him stumble. Sakuya giggled next to him.

Sion's face flushed. "Just focus on the hunt, okay?" he grumbled, trying to ignore the heat rising to his cheeks. “And no, I, I don't like him. Why would you even ask?”

Sakuya and Ryo exchanged a knowing glance, their grins widening. Sion sighed. He knew he should have expected this. After all, these two were always up to something.

"But why not?" Sakuya persisted. "You two are always together. And you look so cute together." He said and Ryo eagerly nodded his head. He really looked like a maltese doing that. 

Ah these kids. They were cute but together they were two little devils.

Sion groaned. "We're just friends, kid. Now, let's focus."

Ryo, ever the instigator, piped up. "We know you're just too shy to admit it. I mean, you blushed when we asked if you liked him." He pointed out with a knowing smile.

Sion's face turned even redder. "I did not!" He protested, but his voice lacked conviction. He even stuttered. 

"You did so!" Sakuya giggled evilly, his lips stretched in a smirk. "You're so cute when you blush, hyung.”

Sion couldn't help but groan. This is what his life would be from now on? He was alone for a year before and now God sent these two little gremlins to torment him?

He shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. "Let's just hunt.” He muttered.

He didn't want to discuss his feelings. He was shy and awkward about them. He came to terms that he liked Daeyoung a long time ago but he never said it out loud so talking about it with teenagers was.. uncomfortable.

Luckily the boys didn't press further. Until they did again.

As they continued their search, the playful banter of the two young boys filled the air, a stark contrast to the harsh reality of their world. Sion couldn't deny that he found their antics endearing, even if they were occasionally irritating. They found some wood and started cutting it so they stopped talking for a while, focused on their work. But Sion should've known it was calm before the storm.

"We ship Daeyoung and you, though.” Sakuya said after a while out of nowhere, a mischievous glint in his eye. Sion almost cut his leg off with his ax from shock.

"You're so cute together. You're practically like our mom and dad." Sakuya continued, totally indifferent to Sion's inner turmoil of emotions.

Sion groaned, cutting the wood in a half. 

Ryo nodded in agreement. "Yeah!” But then he made a face, as if he was deep in thought. “But Riku seems to have a thing for Daeyoung hyung too. So, you have some competition."

Sion's eyes widened in surprise. "Riku likes Daeyoung?"

The words left his mouth before he could think. Seeing Sakuya's smirk he turned red from embarrassment. Fuck, why didn't he think before opening his mouth. 

“I mean..” He sighed. “Why do you think Riku likes him?” He asked.

“Well aren't you curious, hyung.” Sakuya mused, totally enjoying seeing Sion suffer.

“I'm not.” Sion replied but the boys just giggled. Hey could see right through the oldest. Sion thought he was slick, but the youngest almost instantly noticed that their hyung had feelings for Daeyoung. 

“Right. Whatever makes you sleep at night, hyung.” Ryo said and started packing the cut wood into his backpack.

"Riku hyung totally has a crush." Sakuya said instead. "He's always staring at Daeyoung, all lovesick and stuff. And didn't you see how close he always is to Daeyoung hyung?

“I guess they are close..” Sion murmured. In full honesty he noticed that too. 

Among the Japanese members Riku took a special liking to Daeyoung. Since at the beginning Sion didn't trust them and kept to himself all the boys naturally spent more time with Daeyoung. And Riku was naturally more expressive, he liked hugging everyone so it wasn't surprising he was affectionate with Daeyoung too.

But Sion was just slightly jealous about it. Daeyoung was also full of love and liked skinship. The two youngest were always the victims of his affection, it was clear Daeyoung was starved of human interactions and the two boys woke up his cute aggression. Daeyoung hugged them all equally in Sion’s eyes. Also he knew the bond he had with Daeyoung was special and no one could break it.

“You need to watch out hyung or Riku will steal him from you.” Ryo said seriously and Sion couldn't help but chuckle. 

"Well, I guess I'll have to watch out."

He laughed and they started packing to go back to the library. At first Sion tried not to think about Ryo’s words, he found them funny, even. But as the time progressed and they made their way to their home he couldn't help but analyze the youngest’s words over and over again.

He couldn't deny that the thought of Riku and Daeyoung together was a bit unsettling. And he also couldn't deny his own feelings for Daeyoung. He tried to remember every interaction Riku and Daeyoung had. Very early Riku started calling Daeyoung ‘his oppa’ and telling everyone that he is Daeyoung's girlfriend. Everyone always laughed and just thought of it as jokes but what if it wasn't a joke? Daeyoung never corrected Riku, he sometimes even played the role of caring boyfriend feeding Riku and hugging him back when the older approached.

A sudden wave of insecurity washed over Sion. What if Daeyoung was interested in Riku? What if he liked Riku and the things the Japanese said? What if Sion was blind and couldn't see what was right in front of him?

The thought was terrifying.

The two youngest were deep in a conversation, walking few steps ahead of Sion when the oldest spoke.

"Hey, guys." Sion began, his voice hesitant. The two boys slowed down and looked at their hyung in question. Sion swallowed a lump in his throat.

"Do you think Daeyoung likes Riku?"

The boys paused, their eyes wide with surprise. They looked at Sion with mouths wide open and then slowly looked at each other. Sion was biting his lips uncomfortably, he wanted to know their opinion but he was also embarrassed because he practically admitted his feelings towards Daeyoung. He waited for their words as if condemned.

Then, to his surprise, Sakuya burst out laughing. Ryo hit his head.

“Be quiet! The walkers will find us, you idiot!” He hissed. Sakuya slowly stopped laughing but he still had tears in his eyes. 

"No way, hyung! Daeyoung hyung is into you!"

Sion's heart stopped.

Ryo nodded vigorously. "Yeah, it's obvious.”

Sion's heart lifted. "Really?" he asked, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.

"Totally.” Sakuya assured him, he finally caught his breath. "Riku's just a friend. A really good friend, but just a friend."

Sion hesitated, unsure of how to broach the topic. But his curiosity was too strong. "How can you be so sure?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Sakuya grinned. "It's obvious, hyung. The way Daeyoung hyung looks at you, the way he smiles when he's around you... it's love, pure and simple."

Ryo nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and remember that time when Daeyoung hyung got all flustered when you complimented his hair when he cut it? That was classic love-struck behavior."

Sion remembered that moment clearly. Daeyoung's bangs were always on the longer side but he decided to cut it. To their surprise Yushi turned out to be an excellent hairdresser as well (that man was full of talent) and cut Daeyoung's hair perfectly. The new cut framed the younger's face nicely and when Sion saw him coming out of the room he couldn't help but exclaim loudly ‘Wow, you look so pretty’. Daeyoung's expression turned into adorable surprise and the way he blushed deeply after and stuttered a quiet ‘thank you, hyung’ made Sion's heart beat faster. 

Yup, he would remember that forever.

Sakuya continued, “Yeah, how can you not see the signs? You're always together, holding hands and stuff. He always talks about you when you're not around and didn't you notice that when we're back from hunting he always greets you first? It's so obvious he likes you.”

“You should definitely confess to him!” Ryo encouraged.

Sion couldn't help but chuckle. "I guess you're right." He admitted. "I just... I don't want to mess things up."

Sakuya patted him on the shoulder. "Don't worry, hyung. Just be yourself. Daeyoungie hyung loves you for who you are."

Sion breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks, guys." he said, a smile spreading across his face. 

“Anytime, hyung!” Ryo said and hugged Sion tightly, making him smile.

As they walked away, he couldn't help but feel a surge of confidence. Maybe, just maybe, there was hope for him and Daeyoung after all. Especially since the other's were convinced Daeyoung liked him back. 

《》

The sun beat down on their backs as Sion and Daeyoung worked side by side, reinforcing the library's barricades. The fence they've build was high and strong but few days earlier there was a sudden gathering of walkers that tried to enter the library. Sion suspected it was because there were six people now and their smell became stronger alongside the noise they produced. It must've attracted the wandering walkers. They had to fight them off more often since the japanese boys joined them.

So now they had to make the fence even stronger.

As Sion and Daeyoung worked in a comfortable silence, Riku joined them, his movements awkward but determined. Now the silence was broken by conversation and laughter, the atmosphere completely changed.

“Riku, can you help me? Hold this for me for a second.” Daryoung asked handing Riku one of the wooden boards and Riku, of course, helped the younger without a second thought.

“I don't know if I can focus since you're so close to me, oppa .” Riku said in a cute voice making Daeyoung burst out laughing, his cheeks getting pink. The youngest hit Riku's arm playfully and they both giggled.

A pang of jealousy shot through Sion as he watched Riku and Daeyoung laugh and talk, their bodies close together. His mind wandered to the conversation he had with Ryo and Sakuya a few days earlier about Riku having a crush on Daeyoung. Looking at Riku and Daeyoung now he was wondering how he couldn't see it earlier. It was clear now that Riku had some kind of feelings for Daeyoung with the way he looked at him and stood next to him. Sion felt… stupid. 

His thoughts uncontrollably spiraled, dark and possessive. He was jealous. He wasn't aware he could be capable of being so jealous but seeing these two in their own world made him feel irritated. He clenched his fist, his knuckles white. He wanted Riku to leave, he wanted to spend time with Daeyoung alone.

But before he could dwell on his anger, a horrifying scream pierced the air. It was Sakuya warning them from where he was sitting on the rooftop.

“Hyungs, watch out! The walkers are coming!” His voice echoed through the air. 

A horde of undead, their decaying flesh glistening in the sunlight, was walking out of the woods, walking straight to the library. 

They could smell fresh, living flesh and they were going straight to the fence. Just in a few seconds they were storming the wall. 

Adrenaline surged through Sion as he pushed Riku aside. “Go get your weapons!” He instructed and Riku nodded and ran inside without questions to get help. Suddenly the fence started shaking from the impact, a few boards were broken, revealing the hideous face of the undead who wanted to get inside. Sion cursed.

And then another board fell and one of the walker's took Daeyoung's arm. The boy screamed when the walker scratched him and Sion saw red. 

“Daeyoung!” He yelled in a rush of adrenaline. He managed to pull Daeyoung away from the walker and shielded him with his own body. Daeyoung was trembling, his forearm bleeding.

“Fuck, are you okay?” Sion asked, his eyes focused on the younger's wound. Daeyoung nodded.

“Yeah, it's just a scratch.” He managed to say before his eyes went wide. “Sion, watch out!” A walker was about to walk in.

Shielding Daeyoung from the oncoming threat Sion swung his ax with incredible precision into the walker's head. He fought with a ferocity he didn't know he possessed, his every move calculated and deadly. In the meantime Riku and Yushi ran out and fought with the walkers from the other side of the fence and the two youngest were barricading the doors.

All the boys were fighting fiercely, even Daeyoung managed to kill a few walkers with his baseball bat.

When the last walker fell, Sion stood panting, his body aching. But he wasn't feeling any pain, his focus was only on Daeyoung who was sitting on the ground tired, holding his bloody hand to his chest.

Sion sat down next to him and pulled him into a hug.

“It's okay now, we are safe for now.”

Daeyoung, his face pale but relieved, clung to Sion's arm. "Thank you." He whispered.

The other boys gathered around Daeyoung, their faces twisted with worry.

“Hyung, they didn't bite you, right?” Ryo asked, tears in his eyes. Everyone looked at Daeyoung. They knew what the bite meant. It meant death and there wasn't anything they could do about it.

Luckily Daeyoung shook his head and they all breathed out in relief.

“No, it's a scratch. And it's not that deep.”

“Let's go inside.” Sion said and helped Daeyoung up. “We need to bandage your hand.” The younger threw his arm around Sion’s shoulders and Sion held him by the waist. He was so scared. It was the first time the walkers came so close to the library. 

At that moment he was glad there weren't alone. If it wasn't for Yushi and Riku fighting off the walkers with them, Sion wasn't sure if they would make it out alive. 

He turned to Riku.

“Thank you.” He sincerely smiled. Even though he was jealous of Riku’s relationship with Daeyoung he couldn't help but be grateful for the younger’s presence.

Riku smiled too. “Anytime.”

They went inside and Daeyoung sat on the couch, droplets of blood were staining the floor. Yushi ran to get a bucket of water while the youngests prepared bandages. Sion kneeled before Daeyoung.

“It looks nasty but you'll be okay.” Sion murmured and Daeyoung managed to smile.

“I'm the doctor here, I was supposed to patch you up, not the other way around.” Daeyoung tried to joke. 

“It's okay to let someone take care of you from time to time.” Sion smiled back. 

Yushi came back with water and Riku walked up to them.

“Hyung you're hurt too, I can tend to Daeyoung while you get change from your torn clothes.” The younger one suggested but Sion just shook his head. He was still a little high on adrenaline and he wasn't going to let Daeyoung out of his sight. He didn't want to leave Daeyoung alone at all costs. Especially with Riku. 

“It's okay, I'll take care of him.” Sion simply answered, his tone of voice leaving no room to argue. Riku just nodded and left them alone.

I'll always take care of Daeyoung , Sion thought while cleaning the younger's wound. Always .

《》 

But no matter how many people were in the group now, nothing could match Daeyoung's and Sion’s chemistry. When it came to fighting the undead these two were an unstoppable force.

Few days passed since they reinforced the fence but the undead were everywhere. The boys had to fight them off practically everyday at this point.

The horde surged forward, a relentless tide of the undead. Sion and Daeyoung stood side by side, their movements fluid and synchronized. Each strike was precise, each block a testament to their skill and their bond.

Yushi and Riku watched from the rooftop of the library, their eyes wide with awe. They were supposed to be a backup with their handmade bows and arrows but seeing Sion and Daeyoung in action, fighting in a perfect harmony, was a strangely beautiful sight.

"They're like a well-oiled machine.” Riku marveled. There was no denying these two spent the most time together. There was a mutual understand between them, they didn't have to exchange words to communicate. Just one look between them and they knew what they had to do. It was beautiful.

Yushi nodded, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Soulmates.” he murmured.

On the other hand Daeyoung was tired . 

The horde surged forward, a wave of decaying flesh and hungry eyes. Fighting them off was physically exhausting. Luckily his forearm was almost healed so he could fight them off without much trouble. Especially having the older one by his side gave him the very much needed strength, both physically and mentally. Sion stood firm, his body taut, his eyes locked onto the nearest threat. With a swift motion, he drew his ax, the glint of steel catching the sunlight. He was totally locked in, he was determined to kill off every walker that crossed his path.

His each strike was precise, each parry flawless. The walkers, once menacing, now seemed clumsy and slow compared to Sion's fast movements. Of course Daeyoung himself fought fiercely but Sion was on another level. He danced through them, a blur of motion, his every move a deadly ballet. Daeyoung watched, his heart pounding in his chest. He had never seen Sion fight like this before. It seemed as if the older had his own personal vendetta against the undead. There was something wild in his eyes. His energy was different than usual. His every movement was filled with power and grace, a captivating display of strength and skill.

Little did Daeyoung know Sion was angry and his little display of power was to avenge their last meeting with the walkers. He wasn't going to let them hurt the people he cared about again.

As the last undead fell, Sion stood, panting but triumphant. Sweat glistened on his forehead, his muscles rippling beneath his worn clothes. Daeyoung couldn't help but stare, his gaze lingering on Sion's strong, determined features. Daeyoung had never felt such a strange mix of fear and admiration. He was both terrifying and alluring, a deadly force of nature. 

In that moment, he realized something he had been denying for far too long. Sion was more than just a friend, a protector. He was something else entirely. Something… hot. 

《》

But not always everything was so easy. Yushi, Sion and Riku had to travel to a new town trying to find more equipment. 

They were hoping to scavenge for supplies. They had to find a lot if they wanted to survive the upcoming winter in the library without fear of dying of hunger. They had quite a lot already and their rooftop garden was prospering well but it was never too bad to have a little more supplies.

So they packed their truck and drove out to another city to explore, leaving the youngests behind. Sakuya and Ryo were still too young and Sion couldn't risk them getting hurt during a dangerous expedition like this. Daeyoung stayed with them because Sion was still a little paranoid of him getting hurt. The younger boys teased him about it a lot but Sion couldn't care less.

“Stay safe, hyungs.” Ryo hugged them all before their departure. 

“Don't worry, we will. As always.” Sion replied with a smile. And with that the three of them were gone.

They drove to another ghost city, even further than before.

They had driven cautiously, their senses heightened, but the city had a way of luring the unsuspecting. They had too many ‘adventures’ with hordes of undead in cities like this at this point so they knew their senses had to be heightened.

Nothing happened during most of their journey. They found some supplies and additional things that could be useful in the future. They only encountered a few walkers here and there but they were relatively easy to deal with.

“Damn, these are so annoying.” Riku murmured and hit the walker straight through the head. “They always make so much of a mess.”

“You just don't know how to fight.” Yushi replied while showing off a dead body from the road.

“Ya! Tokuno, take those words back, I'm the best fighter among us!”

Sion just laughed at Riku's whiny tone. He had to agree though, he also didn't enjoy fighting off the dead. They really were messy. But surprisingly he found his rhythm with the other two. Their trio was strong, they were three oldest of the bunch after all. It turned out Riku was extremely fast while Yushi was lifted with almost perfect precision, he never missed a hit (Seriously, what Yushi couldn't do?).

“Okay, I think we have enough. Let's get back home.” Sion ordered when the sun went down, they still had three hours to travel. For the most part the ride was peaceful. Yushi was driving, Riku sitting next to him while Sion was sitting by the window, letting the sun warm his face. They were exhausted, the hunt for supplies was a success but now they were tired and they just dreamed of laying down the mattress in the library. 

They were not even an hour from home when the hell broke lose.

As they navigated a narrow street, suddenly a horde of the undead erupted from a nearby building. It happened in a blink of an eye. One second the boys were driving on the empty street, the second a glass wall of a store broke and the undead swarmed the car like a plague of locusts, their guttural moans filling the air. 

“Fuck, move, move, move!” Sion shouted and Yushi hit the gas pedal. But the truck was old and it had its limits. The horde felt like a sea, dead bodies just flowing from every side. It didn't take much time for the horde to catch up. The walkers started climbing on each other and before anyone knew, few of them were on the back of the trunk.

Yushi, at the wheel, panicked, his hands trembling while looking at the rearview mirror.

“Fuck, they will tore our supplies from the back!” Yushi cursed loudly. 

“I'll take care of them, focus on driving!” Sion ordered, taking out his ax.

Then he leaped out, his ax in hand. He made his way to the back and started to fight. He fought with a ferocity born of desperation, each strike a desperate plea for survival. Riku, armed with a baseball bat, stayed inside the truck to guard Yushi. If something happened to the driver there would be no surviving for them.

The two men fought tooth and nail, while Yushi speeded along the road but the horde was relentless. They were more aggressive than ever and very hard to kill off. But Sion was determined to destroy every single one of them. He was kicking and pushing them off of himself and the trunk, he was swinging his ax straight in the undead's head but there were too many of them.

A scream broke out when an undead caught him from the back and bit into his shoulder. Sion pushed the monster away immediately and cut his head in a half. Sion's blood was buzzing in his veins, he was high on adrenaline. The pain on his shoulder was agonizing. With animalistic yells he fought the undead untill he was the only one left standing. 

The back of the truck was covered in blood and the undead's guts.

As the car finally broke free, Sion collapsed, exhausted and bleeding. He had a few scratches on his neck and face but it wasn't a problem. The problem was the big wound on the right side of his shoulder, his skin was torn and dark blood was flowing out of it.

“Fuck.” Sion moaned in pain when he touched his arm. He looked at his hand covered in blood. Yushi slowed down so that Riku could climb on the back of the truck and check up on the oldest.

“Fuck.” Riku cursed too when he saw Sion being covered in blood, half sitting with his back pressed to a big bag of rice. “Hyung, did they bite you?” 

Sion shook his head. “I don't know.” The older murmured, the world started spinning and he had to close his eyes.

Riku kneeled next to him and looked at the wound. “Shit, I think they bit you but not deep enough. They just tore your skin but I don't think you're infected.”

“Lucky me.” Sion murmured on the verge of collapsing.

Riku opened the window and Yushi looked at him with wide eyes. He was trembling.

“You guys okay?” The older man asked but Riku shook his head.

“Yushi, you need to hurry the fuck up, we need to get back to the library now, Sion is bleeding out!” He said and kneeled back next to Sion. Yushi threw him a first aid kit and Riku tightened the tourniquet on Sion and began to bandage the wound. But they didn't have enough, the wound was quite big and the blood soaked through the bandages in no time.

Sion was too tired, he just wanted to fall asleep but Riku slapped him on the face bringing him back to consciousness.

“Don't die on me here, hyung. Daeyoung would kill me.” 

Right, Daeyoung. His lovely Daeyoung who was sitting in the library not knowing that Sion was just bleeding out on the back of their old truck. Sion couldn't help but chuckle.

“He wouldn't, he would never hurt a fly.” Sion murmured and Riku looked at him with a smile.

“Not when it comes to you. For you he would kill everyone on sight if he had to. There is no other man for him… just you.”

Sion and Riku locked eyes, a quiet mutual understanding. It wasn't just a simple statement from the boy and Sion knew it. His words hung heavy in the air. It was Riku's confession. Him admitting his defeat, acknowledging there wasn't any other man for Daeyoung other than Sion. He was stepping back. And Sion was grateful.

“Riku I-”

“Don't.” The younger one interrupted him with a smile. “It's okay. So don't bleed out on me here, you need to stay strong for him.”

And so Sion did.

♡

Daeyoung was waiting, his face etched with worry. Sakuya and Ryo were sitting on the couch reading something together while Daeyoung was sitting by the table looking out the window. It's been half a day and the three oldest weren't back home yet. 

“Don't worry hyung, they'll be back in no time.” Ryo said when Daeyoung sighed for the tenth time in a span of five minutes.

“I know.” Daeyoung murmured but he couldn't help it.

They've built a safe place at the library but they all knew that outside their reinforced fence anything could happen. It was a wild world out there, a nightmare compared to their cozy little library. It was a lottery. One day it was peaceful and the hunt went without troubles while the other day the older men came back with wounds and covered in blood because they had to fight off the undead. Nobody could predict how a hunt would end, it was a roulette of life and death.

Just as Daeyoung was about to go and try to find himself something to do, they heard a loud screeching of tires on the road. All the boys stood up on alert instantly, fear filling their bodies.

“I think it's them.” Sakuya said and Daeyoung looked at them with hard eyes.

“Take your weapons. We don't know why they're driving so fast. Stay alert.” He said and the two boys nodded and took out their knives.

But when the door of the library opened all their weapons instantly dropped to the floor when their eyes witnessed a horrific scene.

“Sion hyung?!” Ryo cried out in horror. 

Yushi and Riku were both supporting Sion, who was in the middle of them barely holding up on his feet.

As soon as Daeyoung saw Sion's condition, his heart sank. He ran up to the three in panic. His eyes welled up with tears as he gently cradled Sion's head. He looked at all three of the men and couldn't believe what he was seeing. They looked horrifying, they were covered in blood, scratches and bruises, hair sweaty and their clothes dirty. 

But Sion looked the worst, his clothes were practically torn apart and he was still bleeding. He had scratches on his cheeks, neck and lips. He was covered in fresh and dried blood almost from head to toe. Daeyoung couldn't help but cry at the sight of him.

“What happened?” Daeyoung asked Riku who didn't look any better than Sion. At least Riku was standing and not getting in and out of consciousness like Sion.

“A horde of undead. They climbed in the trunk, Sion was fighting them alone.” Yushi answered and Daeyoung couldn't believe what he was hearing. 

Sion fought with a horde of undead alone? 

“What?” Daeyoung gasped at them. 

“They would destroy the bags of rice we found.” Yushi answered. “Sion tried to stop them.”

"How could you be so reckless?" Daeyoung sobbed, his voice barely audible, he looked at Sion. The oldest's eyes were heavy but he was still conscious. He was so exhilarated that they were alive but still, Daeyoung was angry. "You could have died!"

Sion, weak and feverish, managed a weak smile. "I'm okay, Daeyoung-ah. Just a few scratches." 

Sion was content. He was finally home with Daeyoung and the little ones. Everything was fine, he didn't have to fight anymore. Before anyone could react the oldest closed his eyes. He passed out, too tired and too wounded to stay councious and all the boys panicked.

“Fuck, put him on the mattress, quick!” Daeyoung ordered.

The boys managed to put Sion down on the mattress, the white fabric colored red after soaking the blood tripping from Sion's body. Daeyoung kneeled next to him, rolling up the sleeves of his shirt.

“Ryo, go take some water, fast!” He ordered. He was still trembling, panic rushed all over his body after seeing Sion in that state but he had to focus. He had to clean up and manage the wounds fast before the older one got any infection. 

“Sakuya, bring me all the bandages we have. And some alcohol too!” The youngest nodded and ran as fast as he could to get the necessities. 

Daeyoung leaned over Sion's face and felt his breath. It was weak but it was there. He also checked the pulse and fortunately it was palpable so the boys could breathe a sigh of relief. It seemed that Sion's life wasn't in danger for now. But still, Daeyoung had to bandage the wound.

He looked up at the two older boys who were sitting next to him.

“Yushi, Riku do you feel alright?” Daeyoung asked. In the midst of worrying for Sion he forgot about his other friends. Riku managed a smile, Yushi was holding him up.

“I'm fine, I was fighting from inside since Yushi was driving.” He explained. “They didn't get to me, the only thing that hurt was the glass from the windows when they cracked but I'll live. Let's focus on Sion.”

At his words Daeyoung nodded.

Luckily Sion had a stable pulse and it appeared he didn't have more deep wounds other than his shoulders. But Daeyoung’s hands were still shaking when he was looking at the older’s injuries. Ryo and Sakuya came back with clean water and bandages, alongside with some salicylic alcohol. Daeyoung started working.

Daeyoung cut Sion's shirt (that was already hanging on him by a thread) with a knife revealing a bruised and bleeding body.

“Oh my God..” He gasped. 

Sion’s body, before clean and almost flawless, was now covered in nasty scratches and dark purple bruises, there was dried blood all over his body while the wound on his shoulder was still bleeding. He looked like he was in so much pain and Daeyoung's heart just broke after seeing his strong hyung in that state.

Daeyoung was never happier that went to med school. Even though he wasn't a student that long he still got basic training and knew what to do. 

Daeyoung tended to Sion's wounds, his movements gentle. He didn't want to hurt Sion even more.

Sweat beaded on his forehead as he carefully cleaned the gaping wound on Sion's arm. The air was thick with the scent of antiseptic and fear. Even the boys went quiet, all sitting around and just observing Daeyoung's moves. Everyone was scared for their leader.

Daeyoung's hands trembled as he worked, his heart heavy with worry. He had never seen so much blood before, so much raw, exposed flesh. Yet, he pressed on, determined to save Sion's life. The older usually didn't get that many deep wounds and this one scared everyone.

With gentle hands Daeyoung leaned the wound, using clean water and soft towels. He was looking at Sion's face all the time to see if the man woke up but it seemed Sion's body totally gave up for the time being. Maybe it was for the better? At least now the older didn't feel any pain. Or at least Daeyoung hoped so. The pain Sion must have endured earlier was unimaginable.

After tending to the largest wound, Daeyoung turned his attention to the smaller cuts and scrapes that marred Sion's body. With a steady hand, he applied salicylic alcohol, wincing at the sharp sting it must have caused. He carefully wrapped bandages around Sion's injured limbs, ensuring they were tight enough to stop the bleeding but not so tight as to cut off circulation.

Finally, Daeyoung turned his attention to Sion's face. He fixed Sion's bangs and sighed. He gently wiped away the dirt and blood, revealing the handsome features that had always captivated him. Sion was so beautiful. A single tear rolled down Daeyoung's cheek as he gazed upon Sion's peaceful face. He was so grateful that Sion was still alive.

Daeyoung checked Sion's pulse, a wave of relief washing over him. Sion was still stable, for now. He would live but the road to recovery would be long. 

Daeyoung looked at his own hands, now covered in Sion's blood. 

“Daeyoung.” Yushi's hand on his shoulder made him finally look up. “You did great.”

Daeyoung managed a weak smile.

“Thank you. I hope it will be enough.” He whispered looking back at Sion’s face. He brushed Sion's hair away from his forehead, his fingers tracing the familiar lines. A single tear escaped his eye again, rolling down his cheek. He wiped it away quickly, his focus returning to Sion. 

"Please be okay." He whispered, his voice barely audible. "Please." 

He took Sion's hand, his fingers intertwining with the other's. Raising Sion's hand to his lips, he pressed a tender kiss to his fingers. "Please wake up soon." He pleaded, his voice filled with desperation.

Suddenly, two pairs of small arms wrapped around Daeyoung, pulling him into a tight hug. Ryo and Sakuya, their faces etched with concern, sat down beside him. They were also crying earlier, their eyes were red and puffy.

"Will he be okay?" Ryo asked, his voice trembling. Daeyoung forced a smile. "He will. He's a fighter, he just needs to rest." He said, though his voice was barely a whisper. But he had to stay strong for the youngest ones.

Sakuya nodded, his eyes filled with new tears. "We're here for you, hyung." he said, squeezing Daeyoung's hand. 

Daeyoung squeezed back, grateful for their support. He looked at Sion one last time and kissed his forehead gently.

“Rest, hyung.” He whispered.

When he was sure Sion's state was stable and when he sent Ryo and Sakuya off to sleep he finally tended to Riku's wounds. Luckily he wasn't as injured as Sion, the oldest took the hardest hit. His heart ached with worry as he cleaned the wounds of the other survivors. Though his hands were busy, his mind was consumed by Sion's unconscious form. He could only think about what happened on that hunt, how Daeyoung shouldn't have stayed. If they went all together maybe the outcome of the expedition wouldn't be as bad as it was. Daeyoung felt guilty.

"He will be okay, Daeyoung." Riku assured, his voice filled with a forced optimism. "Our leader is strong."

Daeyoung's eyes welled up with tears. He couldn't help but blame himself. He should have been there, protecting them. He should have been the one to take the brunt of the attack. He could've helped, he could have fought alongside Sion. 

“I should've gone with you. Then you wouldn't be outnumbered. I could've helped.” He murmured. “If I had gone with you then maybe Sion wouldn't have fought all alone and he wouldn't have ended up in this state.”

Yushi, noticing Daeyoung's distress, moved closer, wrapping his arms around him. "Don't blame yourself." He said, his voice gentle. "He wasn't bitten. He just lost a lot of blood but you patched him up. He'll be okay, he just needs to rest. You said this yourself.”

Daeyoung nodded. He knew Sion was going to be alright. He was strong. He was the strongest of all of them. He wouldn't give up at any cost. They just needed to be patient.

Riku joined the hug, their combined warmth offering a small comfort. Daeyoung closed his eyes, finally letting the tears flow freely. All this time he tried so hard not to cry and stay strong but he couldn't anymore. The moment he felt Riku and Yushi’s arms around him he crumbled in their embrace. 

“It's okay, just let it out.” Yushi murmured and Daeyoung just cried harder.

《》

As the hours passed, Sion slowly regained consciousness. He blinked, looking around. He felt like he was hit by a train, his whole body was aching. His vision was blurry and his shoulder was throbbing in pain but all that didn't matter when he saw a pair of the most beautiful brown eyes staring at him.

Daeyoung sat beside Sion, his hand gently stroking Sion's hair. 

“Hi.” Sion smiled, his voice hoarse. He saw Daeyoung's expression fall and suddenly the younger one burst into tears.

“Hyung, you are finally awake.” Daeyoung whispered through his tears.

“Hey, don't cry. It's okay, I'm okay.” Sion immediately whispered his hand reaching for Daeyoung. They locked fingers and Daeyoung instantly brought Sion's hand to his lips and kissed it. Sion couldn't even dwell too much on that fact, too concerned for the younger. Daeyoung needed a few minutes to calm down, during which Sion gently stroked Daeyoung's hand with his thumb. When the younger finally calmed down his eyes were glassy when he looked at Sion.

"You scared me." Daeyoung whispered, his voice filled with emotion. "You scared me so fucking much. I thought I was going to lose you." Daeyoung whispered, his voice trembling.

Sion reached out and took Daeyoung's face in his hand. He made Daeyoung look him straight in his eyes. "I'm here.” He said, his voice barely a whisper. He then pulled his hand away from the younger's cheek and held his hand again. "I'm here and I'm not going anywhere."

“The moment they brought you through the door covered in blood I thought the worst happened.” Daeyoung whispered.

Sion, his eyes heavy with exhaustion, squeezed Daeyoung's hand. "I'm sorry, Daeyoung. I wasn't thinking, I was just trying to guard our supplies.”

"I know, you were just trying to help." Daeyoung replied, understanding the guilt weighing on Sion's heart. "But please, be careful. Don't risk your life for anything again."

Sion nodded, his voice barely audible. "I know. I won't."

They looked at each other with hearts squeezed. There were so many words left unsaid. But before their conversation could progress suddenly Sakuya and Ryo barged into the room.

“We heard voices!” Sakuya exclaimed. “Is Sion hyung up?” He asked and Daeyoung nodded with a smile. He pulled back a little, revealing Sion's face and the moment Sakuya and Ryo saw the oldest’s weak smile they both sobbed and ran to hug their beloved hyung. It was a heartwarming sight for Daeyoung, he couldn't help but laugh seeing the youngest's reaction. They were probably the most scared out of everyone. They were so young and seeing their leader bleeding out before their own eyes must've been traumatizing. Daeyoung was heartbroken this was the world Sakuya and Ryo now had to live in.

“Hyung, you're okay!” Ryo cried in relief and practically threw himself over Sion who winced in pain.

“Ow!” He winced slightly and Daeyoung's senses were already on alert, ready to pull Ryo back but then Sion laughed and put his hand on Ryo's head. The younger one was crying so hard while Sion was stroking his head. “Hyung is fine, Ryo. Everything is alright now.” Sion mumbled.

Sakuya was sitting next to Daeyoung afraid to touch the oldest but it was clear he was happy. Tears were streaming down his face but he was smiling brightly looking at the oldest. 

“I thought you were going to die!” Ryo lamented into Sion's chest, his voice muffled by the bandages. “We were so scared!”

“Ryo, please watch out for Sion’s shoulder.” Daeyoung's quietly reminded, gently pulling Ryo up from Sion’s chest. “We don't want his wound to open.”

Ryo just nodded and sniffled and Sion couldn't help but smile at the sight. He was still in pain, his whole body hurt but seeing all the guys safe filled him with so much happiness and peace.

“It's okay, Ryo. I'm really fine.” Sion said but Ryo cried even harder. Poor boy, he was really scared for Sion before. Seeing him smile was the best feeling he felt.

“Well, guess our sleeping beauty finally woke up.”

At Riku’s sudden words Sion couldn't help but roll his eyes. Seeing his reaction Riku laughed and entered the room. He had a few plasters on his face and bandages on his arm but he was smiling broadly at the oldest. Yushi was standing next to him grinning from ear to ear, too. 

“I'm happy you are feeling better, Sion.” Yushi said and Sion smiled.

“Thanks. Daeyoungie patched me up well.” He praised and Daeyoung smiled.

“Yeah, our skilled personal doctor.” Riku teased and ruffled Daeyoung's hair. Sion just smiled at these two. Just few weeks earlier an action like this would spike his jealousy but now he couldn't care less. Now they had a silent understanding between them. Riku acknowledged Sion's feelings for Daeyoung and was stepping back. There was no room for jealousy now. Actually, it was rather amusing, seeing Riku tease the younger and Daeyoung acting annoyed.

“Hyung, stop.” Daeyoung whined and fixed his hair. 

“Okay you whiny princess.” Riku sighed and everyone laughed. In the meantime Sakuya and Ryo calmed down. Everyone gathered around Sion, their presence warm. Sion couldn't help but feel the love radiating from them. He couldn't believe he didn't want to take these guys in at first. Now he couldn't imagine a life without these chaotic four. They were his family now.

They talked and laughed, joking around. Ryo and Sakuya were laying on both sides of Sion, cuddling him. They didn't want to leave his side but it was getting late and when Sion's eyes started closing Daeyoung ordered everyone to get back to their rooms.

Everyone was happy that after hours Sion finally regained consciousness but the oldest's body still went through a shock so this much attention really tired him out. He needed to rest and everyone knew it. Riku and Yushi took upon themselves to take the kids to bed and they left Sion and Daeyoung alone in the main room.

Sion sighed. Finally some peace and quiet.

A comfortable silence fell between them. Daeyoung checked Sion's bandages and wound but it appeared everything was fine. The big wound did not reopen but Daeyoung still had to change Sion's old bandages to new ones since there was still a little blood on them.

“Can you sit up?” Daeyoung asked and Sion nodded. With a slight difficulty he managed to pull up and with Daeyoung's help he sat up properly.

“Thanks.” He mumbled and Daeyoung smiled softly. 

“Anytime.”

After that Daeyoung went to work. He pulled the old bandages from Sion's body and Sion felt shivers run through his body after Daeyoung's warm fingers made contact with his cold skin. His gentle hands were tending to Sion's wounds, replacing the soiled bandages with fresh ones. A comfortable silence filled the room as Daeyoung worked, his focus unwavering.

Sion watched him, mesmerized by the way the light danced on Daeyoung's face. He was so close, their breaths mingling in the still air. As Daeyoung gently cleaned the blood from Sion's chest, a shiver ran down Sion's spine. He yearned to reach out, to touch Daeyoung, to feel his warmth. But he was trapped, his body weak, his heart heavy with longing.

Daeyoung, oblivious to Sion's internal turmoil, continued his task, his movements gentle and precise. He cleaned Sion's body, wiping away the dirt and grime of the apocalypse. They were quiet, just enjoying the peace and quiet.

Sion closed his eyes, the sensation of Daeyoung's touch sending shivers down his spine. The younger's touch was intoxicating. He wanted to pull Daeyoung closer, to feel his warmth, to taste his lips. He wanted to tell Daeyoung all his feelings he had. He wanted to let him know about the crush he harbored for over a year now. But he restrained himself, knowing that now was not the time. He was injured and it was clear Daeyoung was incredibly tired. He was pale and had eyebags under his pretty eyes. He didn't sleep at all, looking over Sion while the older was still unconscious.

As Daeyoung finished cleaning Sion, he sat back, his forehead creased with concern. Sion's eyes met his, and for a moment, their gazes locked. 

“Done.” Daeyoung said. “Luckily the wound is not infected. You'll live.” 

“Thank you.” Sion took Daeyoung's hand in his. “Really, thank you. You just saved my life.” 

Daeyoung smiled. “And I'll save it over and over again if I had to.”

Sion just smiled.

Daeyoung leaned in, his lips brushing against Sion's forehead. He kissed it gently. "Now rest. You had an intense two days." He whispered. Sion nodded and with Daeyoung's help he laid down on the mattress again. Daeyoung brushed Sion’s hair away from his eyes with a soft smile.

“Sleep. I'll be here.” 

As Sion drifted off to sleep he knew Daeyoung didn't just mean that he would be there for him tomorrow. He meant that he would be there for Sion, always.

《》

Sion sat on the rooftop, looking up at the dark night sky, lost in thought. It's been a few days since the accident. Daeyoung and the other boys tended to him, cleaning his wound, changing bandages. It took a while but after some pampering he could finally walk around without help. His smaller wounds healed but the big one on his shoulder was still causing him some pain but it was manageable. 

That situation from a few days ago shocked him to the core. It made him think about the past and the future. 

Just over a year ago, he had been a lone survivor, a ghost wandering a desolate world. He has lost all of his family and friends, he couldn't find his brother, he lost all his will to live. Fear had been his constant companion, a cold, heavy weight on his shoulders. He had often wondered if he was the only one left on earth.

But then, he had found Daeyoung, a kindred spirit lost in the chaos. Or rather Daeyoung found him. Kim Daeyoung who despite living in a nightmare was as kind as ever, his good heart was never poisoned with hatred. Together, they had built a sanctuary, a place where hope could blossom. Their small home in the middle of the chaotic world.

As he watched the sky, Sion couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude. He was no longer alone. He had found love, friendship, and a purpose. The future was uncertain, but for now, he was content. He was part of something beautiful, something worth fighting for. He wasn't alone anymore.

Lost in thoughts he didn't hear the soft footsteps approaching.

"Mind if I join you?" Daeyoung asked, his voice gentle.

Sion turned to see Daeyoung standing a few feet away. It was late at night so Daeyoung wore a big cozy sweater that made him look cozy. A warm smile spread across Sion’s face. "Of course not." He replied, patting the space beside him.

Daeyoung sat down, his legs dangling over the edge of the roof. The two of them sat in comfortable silence, the only sound the rustling of the wind. Somewhere in the distance they could hear a wandering walker, his grunting echoing in the quiet of the night.

“How are you feeling?” Daeyoung asked, breaking the silence. For the past few days these two were inseparable. Daeyoung was scared to leave Sion alone for a second, afraid the older one would collapse or that his wound would open. Roku and Yushi were the ones left with the responsibility of killing the undead near the library while the youngest were in charge of looking after the oldest. Sion secretly loved the attention, gentle touches and worried eyes focused only on him. 

“Better.” Sion replied, honestly. He still had scratches all over his body and he was hurting but it was bearable. 

“I'm glad.” Daeyoung whispered with a smile. 

Sion turned his head, his gaze meeting Daeyoung's. 

"Thank you again." Sion murmured, his voice husky.

Daeyoung, his eyes big in surprise, smiled. "For what?"

"For taking care of me," Sion explained. "When I was injured, you… you never left my side. You made sure my wounds were clean, you made Yushi and Riku go out and hunt for supplies while I rested."

Daeyoung's smile widened. "It was the least I could do.” He said, his voice filled with warmth. "You would have done the same for me."

Sion nodded, his heart swelling with gratitude. He knew Daeyoung was right. They had formed a bond that transcended friendship, a bond forged in the fires of the apocalypse, a bond that would last a lifetime.

"When I was resting I was thinking." Sion began, breaking the silence again. "About how far we've come."

“What do you mean?” Daeyoung asked.

Sion's eyes were fixed on the sky. "It's incredible, isn't it? A year ago, we were just two lost souls, struggling to survive." He sighed remembering the time when he was alone. "And now.” SIon continued. "We have a family."

Daeyoung turned to look at Sion, his heart filled with warmth. He was quiet for a while, comprehending the older’s words. And then he slowly moved his hand, taking Sion’s hand in his, interviewing their fingers. "Yeah. A beautiful family.” He agreed with a soft smile.

Daeyoung's words hit him straight in the heart. Sion thought about the past few days, the terror of the apocalypse, the fear of losing everything, and most importantly, the fear of losing Daeyoung. 

He remembered lying injured, weak and vulnerable, while Daeyoung had tirelessly cared for him. The way Daeyoung had cleaned his wounds, the worry etched on his face, the gentle touch of his hands… It wasn't a simple crush. Sion was in love with him. For longer than he wanted to admit.

But it really did not surprise him at all he fell for the younger. Daeyoung was strong, both physically and emotionally. He was caring, always putting others before himself. He was kind, funny, and not to mention incredibly beautiful. Sion wanted to spend every waking moment with him, to cherish every laugh, every touch, every stolen glance. 

The thought of not telling Daeyoung how he felt, of letting those feelings remain unspoken, was unbearable. They were living in a world where life was fragile, where death could come knocking at any moment. They didn't have the privilege that time was. He couldn't waste any more time. He had to confess.

Sion took a deep breath, his heart pounding like a drum in his chest. "Daeyoung." he began, his voice husky with emotion. 

The wind whipped through Sion's hair, the cool night air nipping at his skin. Beside him, Daeyoung shivered slightly, his breath misting in the cold. He turned to look at Sion when he heard his name.

“Yes, hyung?”

Sion turned to Daeyoung, his gaze intense. He squeezed his hand taking a breath. That was the moment. He wasn't going to back out now, he was going to tell Daeyoung all his feelings. He was hoping Daeyoung would reciprocate his feelings, or if he wouldn't feel the same Sion hoped that at least Daeyoung would be nice while rejecting him. There was no turning back, no matter the outcome. But Daeyoung had to know how Sion was feeling.

Before it was too late.

"I've been thinking a lot lately about something else too." He began, his voice barely a whisper. He cleared his throat, cheeks blushing. "About us." 

Daeyoung's heart pounded in his chest. “What about us?”

"That last encounter with the undead really put things into perspective.” Sion sighed. “I realized that we might die tomorrow." Sion continued, his voice growing stronger. "We might die next week, or next year. But I don't want to wait for the world to end before I tell you how I feel."

Daeyoung's breath caught in his throat. 

Sion took another deep breath, then blurted out. "I… I love you. More than words can say."

He held his breath, waiting for Daeyoung's reaction. He was prepared for rejection, for confusion, for anything. But what he saw in Daeyoung's eyes was not fear or confusion. It was… love. 

Because what Sion didn't know was that Daeyoung was in love with him too. For a long time as well.

Sion had slowly crept into Daeyoung's heart from the very beginning. It started with the small things – the way he took Daeyoung into the library and let him stay with him, the way he gently applied ointment to Daeyoung's sprained ankle, the concern in his eyes, the way he always seemed to know when Daeyoung needed a moment alone and when he needed company. Sion understood him completely.

The older went on longer hunts, returning with unexpected treasures like chocolate, just to see Daeyoung's smile. He was a poet at heart, his words gentle and insightful, always finding the beauty in even the most desolate of places. They could talk for hours and they wouldn't get bored. Sion had a good heart, always willing to help others, even when it meant putting himself at risk and that's what Daeyoung loved about him the most.

Daeyoung remembered the initial hesitation in Sion's eyes when he suggested taking in the Japanese survivors. It was their first big fight, Daeyoung remembered every word they had said to each other. But then he understood Sion's hesitatance. Sion was just protective of him, and Daeyoung appreciated that more than words could say. But watching Sion transform into a caring and supportive leader, watching him embrace the responsibility of protecting his newfound family, had cemented Daeyoung's feelings. 

How could he not fall in love with a man so selfless, so compassionate, so utterly captivating? 

A gentle smile spread across his face. He squeezed Sion’s hands and looked him in the eyes. "I love you too, Sion." he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. 

Sion felt a wave of relief wash over him, followed by an intense surge of happiness. He pulled Daeyoung closer and leaned in, his lips brushing against Daeyoung's. It was a gentle kiss, filled with a lifetime of unspoken emotions. At first he hesitated, not knowing if he crossed any lines but when Daeyoung put his hands on Sion's face and connected their lips in a deeper kiss all his thoughts vanished.

As their lips met, the world seemed to fade away. All that mattered was the moment, the feeling, and the man in front of him.

“I love you so fucking much.” Sion whispered and kissed Daeyoung again. And again. And again until they couldn’t breathe anymore.

The moonlight kissed the rooftop, the wind tousled Daeyoung's hair as they pulled apart, panting. A soft smile played on their lips. Sion was high on happiness.

"This is nice.” Daeyoung said, his voice barely a whisper. His lips were swollen and cheeks red. He looked ethereal.

Sion nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. “Very nice.” He leaned in, his breath catching in his throat. As their lips met again, a wave of warmth washed over him. It was a simple, stolen moment, a testament to the love that had blossomed between them. In that moment, surrounded by the remnants of their apocalyptic world, nothing else mattered to Sion. Only having Daeyoung in his arms.

They couldn't stop kissing. They were hungry for each other, they tried to convey all these unspoken feelings both of them harbored for months. They couldn't stop kissing and touching each other. Sion's hand was on Daeyoung's hip bone and the other resting on his shoulder while the younger was holding Sion's face in his hands, as if afraid Sion would vanish if he let go.

Sion looked into Daeyoung's eyes, truly seeing him for the first time after their confession. They were beautiful, windows to his soul, reflecting a depth of emotion that mirrored his own. Daeyoung was just so beautiful. Sion's heart ached with the intensity of his feelings. He loved Daeyoung so much, words couldn't describe how much his heart burnt for the younger man.

He would do anything to keep him safe, to protect him from the horrors of their world. He would be his shield, his strength, his unwavering support. He would spend the rest of his life making Daeyoung happy, showing him every day how much he was cherished and adored. He would fight every walker on earth for him.

“I'll love you and protect you until the day I die, Daeyoung.” He whispered and Daeyoung just pulled him by his face, not knowing how to deal with the weight of Sion's words. So he wanted to show him instead. Because Daeyoung would do the same for Sion, too.

Just as their lips met again in a passionate kiss, suddenly a chorus of startled voices echoed from behind them. "Oh my god, my eyes!" Sakuya exclaimed, his voice filled with shock.

Daeyoung and Sion pulled apart instantly, their faces flushed with embarrassment. "You guys! What are you doing here at this hour?" Sion exclaimed, trying to cover his face. They both looked away from each other, awkward. Getting caught making out with Daeyoung by the youngest was embarrassing.

Ryo giggled. "We didn't mean to interrupt your... moment." He apologized but he didn't look sorry at all. 

On the other hand Sakuya, ever the drama queen, dramatically shielded his eyes and whined loudly. "I'm scared for life! It's like seeing your parents having sex!" He wailed and Ryo rolled his eyes at his best friend.

“Okay, let's leave the lovebirds alone.” He said and took Sakuya's hand pulling him away from the newly formed couple.

Despite the awkwardness, a wave of relief washed over Daeyoung and Sion. They both laughed when Ryo and Sakuya ran off the rooftop, leaving them alone again.

“Well, that was awkward.” Sion mumbled and Daeyoung just giggled. 

“I love you, hyung.” He smiled.

Sion wrapped his hand around Daeyoung's shoulders, pulling him towards himself. Daeyoung rested his head and Sion's shoulder and interviewed their fingers together. 

“I love you too.”

Sion's heart soared. He had never been happier, he felt a profound sense of peace. Daeyiung's body was a comforting anchor in the chaos of their world. In that moment he vowed to himself to always protect Daeyoung and the other boys, to shield them from the horrors of the apocalypse. They would stick together for as long as they could.

And as Sion and Daeyoung watched the night sky, cuddled and hands interwined, they knew that no matter what the future held, they would face it together. 

They would not only survive, but they would thrive.