Ch 9

Haein nods, feeling a mixture of gratitude and trepidation. It's daunting to think about finding himself again, after spending so long being what others want him to be. "It sounds hard," he says honestly. "I don't even know where to start." "You start with small steps," Minho says, his voice steady and reassuring. "By doing things that make you happy, even if it's just for a moment. By standing up for yourself, even if it's in small ways. And by reminding yourself that you are worth it, that you deserve to be happy and fulfilled." Haein is quiet for a moment, mulling over Minho's words. They feel like a life raft, providing a lifeline for him to cling to amidst the chaotic sea of his thoughts and feelings. "I'll try," he says softly. "I promise, I'll try." "I know you can do it," Minho says, his voice full of faith. "Just remember, I'm here for you, every step of the way. You're not alone in this, Haein." Haein feels a rush of emotion at those words, the weight of his isolation and loneliness lifting a little bit. "Thanks, Minho," he says, his voice cracking. "You have no idea how much you mean to me." "You don't have to thank me," Minho says, his voice soft. "That's what friends are for."

There's a moment of silence, filled with understanding and support. Then Minho breaks the silence, changing the subject to a lighter topic. "Hey, you know what we should do one of these days?" Haein relaxes a bit, grateful for the shift in conversation. "What?" he asks, intrigued. "We should have a movie night," Minho suggests, a hint of excitement in his voice. "We can order takeout, watch all our favorite movies, and just have a chill night together. What do you think?"Haein's heart skips a beat at the suggestion, a mixture of excitement and nervousness coursing through him. A movie night with Minho... it sounds both thrilling and comforting at the same time. "Yeah..." he says, his voice cracking slightly with emotion. "I think that sounds just perfect." "Great!" Minho says, and Haein can practically hear the smile in his tone. "I'll pick the movies, you pick the takeout. We'll have the best movie night ever." "Okay," Haein says, feeling a little bit lighthearted for the first time in weeks. "It's a date." There's a pause, and Haein's eyes widen as he processes what he just said. Did he just call it a date?? Panic creeps in quickly. But Minho doesn't seem to notice the blunder, or if he does, he doesn't show it. "Alright, it's a date," he says cheerfully. "I'll let you get some rest. See you soon, Haein." "Yeah, good night," Haein says, somehow managing to keep his voice steady. He hangs up the phone, his heart pounding in his chest. Did he just call a hangout with his friend a date??

He facepalms, feeling incredibly stupid. But a small part of him also feels a thrill of anticipation, and he can't help but wonder if there's more to Minho's invitation than just a friend hangout... He shakes his head, trying to push the thought away. It's probably just wishful thinking. He and Minho are just friends, nothing more. But he can't help the fluttery feeling in his stomach, the way his thoughts keep returning to the upcoming movie night. He lies back down on his bed, staring up at the ceiling. The conversation with Minho has lifted his spirits, but now his mind is racing with possibilities. Could Minho see him as more than just a friend? Or is he just being delusional, reading too much into a simple hangout?

He tries to push the thoughts away, telling himself not to get his hopes up. But the idea of something more with Minho is too tempting to ignore. He rolls over onto his side, trying to get comfortable. But his mind keeps churning, imagining scenarios and what-ifs. Maybe this movie night will bring them closer together, maybe it'll be the start of something new. Or maybe it'll just be a night of friendship, with no romantic undertones at all.

He groans, slapping himself softly on the forehead. He needs to get a grip. He can't let his feelings for Minho consume him.