Chapter Text
Baby was released from the hospital 10 days after entry. After three days of unconsciousness, Baby was monitored heavily to ensure he was healing well, and to make sure he didn’t have any physical or mental regressions.
Under the careful supervision of his neurologist, Baby underwent additional testing as well as a subtle change in medication. The viral infection had been taken care of; however, for the next six months, he was ordered to undergo weekly blood work to observe his production of white blood cells, and to monitor how his body reacted to impending viral pathogens.
During the last few days of his stay, Baby attended basic physical therapy. After being mostly bedridden for over a week, and with ribs still healing, he needed to build back his strength. Continued rest was imperative to his recovery, but that didn’t mean he had to remain physically incapable of managing simple daily tasks.
He could very well shower, get dressed, make simple meals, and venture through their pent house all own his own. That was all fine. His doctor(s) approved of such basic activities. However, what wasn’t recommended was that he be left entirely alone. Not until his ribs had healed and his body had adjusted to the change in his medication. That was non-negotiable.
No one dared to argue on that; in fact, it was the easiest thing they could all agree upon, even if it left Baby red-cheeked and sheepish.
Jinu, being Baby’s emergency contact and legal guardian, ensured the physicians overseeing Baby’s recovery that one of them would always be with him. Someone would always have eyes on him.
“Geez, are you all planning on sleeping with me as well?” Baby asked, reluctantly sitting down in the wheelchair when it was brought to him. He could walk on his own, but the nurse handling his discharge insisted that he use it. Hospital protocol and all. He rolled his eyes and pouted.
“Don’t act like you’re inconvenienced by it,” Jinu said, a smirk playing on his lips as he signed the last of the paperwork. “I’m pretty sure you’ve voiced no complaints of having one of us in your hospital bed each night, and that was way smaller than your bed back home.”
“Yeah but it was either that or have you sleep on that ridiculous cot. I didn’t want you hear any of you nag about stiff backs or neck twinges - especially Romance. He’s insufferable as is.”
“I heard that,” Romance yelled from the vending machine, eyes cutting in their direction in fake annoyance.
Baby snickered.
Abby walked over and slung an arm around Baby’s shoulder. “I will say that at least in the hospital bed we could hold you still. Once we’re home, whoever bunks up with you nightly will wake up with a foot in their ribs or an arm slapped over their face in the middle of the night.”
“It’s inevitable,” Mystery chimed, eyes hidden but mouth quirking in a way that suggested he was holding back a smile. He looked like the cat that ate the canary. Well, dog.
Baby gasped, feigning offense. His hand flew to his chest. “And here I thought you all loved me! Liars!”
Romance laughed, walking over with a bag of chips and a water bottle. He handed both to Baby and ruffled his mop of cerulean hair.
“It is because we love you that we’re honest with you. You’re adorable, but your a shit bed mate.” Romance grinned and bent down to kiss Baby’s forehead, only to be met with childish grumbles and an over exaggerated “EW!”
Baby stuck out his tongue and wiped the slobbery kiss from his forehead. He glanced around and noticed Zoey and Mira standing near the door in a quiet conversation.
“That’s it, I’m asking Zoey and Mira to bunk with me. You guys would sleep with me and take care of me, right?”
“Awe, of course,” Zoey said, bouncing on her toes with a bright smile. She looked ready to run over and scoop him up in a big hug.
“No,” Mira replied at the same time as Zoey, voice flat though her eyes held a glimmer of amusement.
Baby smacked Abby’s hand away when the older man attempted to pinch his cheek and motioned to the girls. “See! Mira and Zoey will happily bunk with me.”
Mira shook her head and folded her arms over her chest. “No, I won’t.”
“Mira looks so excited to snuggle. I wonder if she’ll let me be the big spoon,” Baby added, finding joy in poking the bear.
Mira glared, though each of them knew that if it was truly needed, she’d stay with Baby in a heart beat. “Spoon me and I’ll punch you in the face.”
Baby grinned like a cheshire, clasping both hands over his heart as if emotionally moved. “See, such tender affections for me.”
“Okay, okay,” Jinu cut in, placing the clip board down on the nurse’s desk. “Lets try to refrain from leaving this place with broken ribs and a broken nose, okay champ?” He grabbed hold of the wheelchair and began to push Baby towards the door.
Baby tilted his head back to squint up at Jinu, eyes sharpening. “Call me champ again and you might end up with the broken nose.”
There was no real malice behind the empty threat. It was just a simple test of boundaries that Jinu found amusing. Baby had been a fierce little demon, but now he was more like a disgruntled kitten that pretended it didn’t like to be touched. Jinu knew his game, and it warmed him to know Baby felt well enough to play it.
"Just hush and eat your chips,” Jinu said, following Bobby out of the building and towards a row of company cars. Thankfully, there were no paparazzi in sight. Bobby must have arranged it so that the pickup was private. In fact, there was no one outside except for them and a few hospital staff. "What car do you want to get in?”
The girls pilled into the first car, and Mystery stood by the second. The lavender haired boy opened the door to the back seat and waved Jinu over.
“He can ride with me,” Mystery stated. It wasn’t a request.
“Ooo, make room for me!” Romance grinned and shimmied between Jinu and the car, jumping in before Abby could claim the extra spot. Abby gaped and looked offended. He stalked away and entered the next car, complaining under his breath all the while. Romance’s smile only widened.
Jinu shook his head and held out a hand to Baby, ignoring the antics between the two pink haired ex-demons. “Need help?”
“Nah, I got it,” Baby said, pushing himself out of the chair. “Thanks, though.” He smiled at Jinu, soft and sincere, and paused with his hand on the roof of the car. His blue eyes looked up, taking in the sky, and he breathed deeply. Then, he let his eyes close, basking in the warmth of the sun.
Jinu tilted his head, lips slightly parted as he watched Baby with both concern and wonder. “Are you okay?”
“Yeah,” Baby breathed, glancing at him over his shoulder. He smiled again, or maybe the smile never left. “Im just glad to be going home.”
Jinu reached over and squeezed Baby’s shoulder, pulling him into a half-hug. “Me too, B. Me too.”
He held him for a moment more, relishing the warmth of the body pressed against his side and Baby’s willingness to be held. He had expected to be shrugged off, joked at for being too sappy, but this…this was nice. This was rare, and he took a few more extra seconds to enjoy it.
“Are you coming or what?” Romance shouted from the interior of the car. The moment had passed.
Baby giggled and stepped in, taking the open seat by the window. Mystery took the middle seat closest to him, and Romance took the opposite window seat.
“See you guys back at the house,” Jinu said, his eyes glancing over each of his three members. He shut the car door and tapped the roof to signal they were ready to go.
He hopped into the third car with Abby, and as they pulled away, he kept his eyes straight ahead. No part of him wanted to look back.
Days passed and they fell into a comfortable routine. The apartment had been cleaned in their absence, which ended up being a pleasant surprise, and Bobby had arranged for their refrigerator to be stocked with their favorite drinks and food.
Balloons and banners decorated the main living area and Baby’s room, welcoming him home with vibrant colors and festive cheer, and the dining room table was littered with cards, flower arrangements, and small gifts from staff and friends. Baby may have vocally protested and said it was all “too much,” but his smile and blush said different. It was overwhelming, but in the best way.
He followed the doctor’s orders. Well, the others made sure he followed the doctor’s orders. There was no cutting corners - no cheating in his road to recovery. He took his medicine as prescribed, went to his weekly blood-work appointment, attended follow-ups and routine physical and psychiatric therapy, and as promised, he was never alone. Someone was always with him - not necessarily having eyes on him at every moment because damn, he needed some privacy when it came to showering and getting dressed, but someone was always nearby.
Baby understood the reasons for it. He knew it was all precautionary to ensure his safety, but he was growing irritable and restless. He felt like a caged animal, only getting glances of the sun through a crack in the door.
They treated him like he was something fragile - like some porcelain doll that might crack if handled the wrong way. But, he wasn’t fragile. He was fine. He realized that what had happened was traumatic for everyone involved; hell, he was still in the midst of his forth week of mandatory recovery, but he wished they trusted him a little bit more.
Baby still knew his body, after all. He knew what to expect and what to look for. That particular seizure had been a freak accident brought on by an unexpected virus. Yes, it was something to monitor, and yes, it hadn’t been a laughing matter, but he wasn’t a child. He didn’t need to be hovered over like some toddler that just learned to walk.
Sighing, Baby threw the covers off of his body and slid out of bed. He tiptoed to the door, careful to not wake Mystery who was his bed-mate for the night, and escaped to the living room. Only a simple lamp illuminated the room. The glow of the city pulsed beyond the large windows that encased the north side of their penthouse, but otherwise, the apartment remained dark.
Baby paused in the threshold, rubbing his eyes and yawning.
“Couldn’t sleep?”
The voice startled him and he let out a quiet yelp. Fuck. He was wide awake now.
Jinu grinned. Baby obviously hadn’t noticed him sitting in the corner.
He sat at the far end of the love-seat with his slippered feet propped up on the leg rest. Jinu wore a simple t-shirt, stretched and worn, and gym shorts that Baby recalled Rumi begging him to throw away. A small book light clipped to the cover of the novel in his hands, illuminating the pages, but otherwise, he blended in with the shadows. He looked comfortable.
“Jesus, Jinu,” he huffed, placing a hand over his rapidly beating heart. “Warn a guy next time.”
Jinu chuckled softly. “I would, but warning you would have probably had the same effect.”
True, Baby thought. He ran a hand over the length of his face and exhaled slowly, letting his body settle now that he was no longer in fight or flight mode. He shuffled over, barely lifting his feet, and ungracefully flopped down on the opposite end of the love-seat. Baby tilted his head back against the plush head rest and blinked sluggishly at the older boy.
“What are you doing up?” He asked. Baby rubbed some crust out of the corner of his eye.
“Wasn’t tired. Figured I’d start this book Myst recommended to me. You?”
“My brain won’t shut off,” Baby replied, picking at a hangnail on his finger.
Jinu tilted his head. “Oh?”
Baby shrugged. The lamp light haloed his hair, highlighting his signature blue.
“I know I need to rest but it is hard to fall asleep when I literally do nothing but rest all day. Even if I do happen to fall asleep, I’ve been waking up in the middle of the night. I’m bored,” he whined, pouting his lower lip. “I’m so bored.”
Jinu sighed and bookmarked his book, setting it to the side. He scooted a little closer to Baby, stretching an arm out over the back of the seat, and turned to face him. Jinu’s lips were set in a thin line, and his eyes expressed sympathy for their youngest.
“I’m sorry, B. I wish I could help. Truly,” Jinu said, though he was finding it hard to think of the right thing to say. “But, you’re still recovering. We’ve got to be careful and follow the doctor’s orders. Otherwise…”
Baby sighed loudly, letting his hands fall into his lap as he stared up at the ceiling.
“ I know,” he said, exasperated. He blinked slowly, as if his eyelids weighed a ton, and kept glaring at the ceiling as if it held the answers. “But, its not fair. None of this is fair.”
“I know it isn’t, but-“
“How do you know, huh?” Baby’s eyes cut towards Jinu, viper sharp. His jaw tightened. “How could you possibly know?”
Jinu’s mouth snapped shut, his eyes widening slightly from Baby’s sudden outburst. He wanted to say something, but Baby wasn’t quite finished.
“You’re not the one being hidden away like some delicate fairy-tale damsel. Like, I get it, I do, what happened was bad, really bad, but I’m not fucking dying! I’m not some terminally ill patient that has to be catered too. You’re not going to turn around and find me dead on the floor just because you looked away for five seconds!”
“But we did…” Jinu’s voice was so soft Baby barely missed it.
“Huh?”
Baby turned his head to look at Jinu, shocked by the sudden pale pallor of his skin. It looked as if all the blood had drained from his face. His gaze was distant - haunted.
“We did find you dead on the floor. Abby did,” Jinu croaked. His adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed thickly.
The room felt suddenly dense, like humidity after a heavy summer rain, and Baby looked away. He couldn’t hold Jinu’s gaze - not when he couldn’t manage a rebuttal.
“I understand why you’re frustrated,” Jinu continued, carefully phrasing his next words. “But stop and think for a minute. Put yourself in our shoes. Could you even begin to fathom what that was like? To walk in and find you like that? Abby nearly lost his mind! Mystery was practically feral! We all,” he paused, pinching the bridge of his nose. Jinu exhaled shakily.
“If we’re being too overbearing or hovering more than we should, I’m sorry. But, that can’t happen again. We can’t risk it. We almost lost you. We can’t lose you.”
Baby drew his knees up to his chest, curling his arms around his legs. He pressed his cheek to the top of his knees and groaned. Great, he felt like an asshole. He felt the older man’s eyes boring into the back of his skull, but he still couldn’t bring himself to look at him. Call him a coward. Maybe he was.
Or maybe acknowledging Jinu in that moment made it achingly real.
Baby’s heart suddenly felt hollow. Guilt crept up his spine, weaving through him like a snake through water, and he released the breath he had been holding.
“Shit,” he murmured, rubbing at his forehead. “Hyung, I…” Baby didn't know what to say. Apologies were never easy for him.
“I didn’t mean to…it all came out wrong, and I…fuck, this is hard,” he stammered, feeling truly tired for the first time that night. “I didn’t realize…”
Jinu placed a tentative hand on Baby’s crown, waiting until he felt Baby relax before gently stroking the cerulean locks. His fingers carefully untangled superficial knots, moving from the top of Baby’s head to the base of his neck.
“It’s okay,” he whispered. It wasn’t, not really, but it would be. Eventually.
Baby shuddered, shoulders drawing in. “I just…I want things to go back to normal. I’m scared the doctors will tell me I can’t perform, and I don’t want you guys upset.”
Jinu tisked, inching closer until their thighs touched. He continued the soothing strokes for as long as Baby allowed. “We’d never be upset over that. Baby, there is a million other things we could do if performing was off the table.”
The younger boy rolled his eyes. “You say that now…”
“No,” Jinu said, voice suddenly stern. “Can you look at me for a moment?”
Baby huffed and slowly turned his head. He met Jinu’s gaze, though he looked apprehensive. He fidgeted with a loose string on the fringe of his shirt, twisting the thread around his fingers.
“Performing is great. I love what we do. Being an Idol is an experience that we’ve been lucky enough to obtain; however, there are other things out there that I know would bring us just as much joy. Being an Idol isn’t everything. It is not the reason I wake up in the morning - it isn’t what drives me. You all do. I’d much rather us all do something together than to break apart. You’re my family.”
“I know,” Baby breathed, lips curving in to a sad shadow of a smile. His eyes looked glassy. “But, I don’t want to stop. I’m happy doing this! The music, the fans, our life, its something I never thought I’d have. I mean we were demons - we were never supposed to have all this. Knowing it could be taken from me…Jinu, it’s not fair.”
Jinu reached over and wiped away a tear that clung to the corner of Baby’s eye, shushing him softly. He continued to pet his hair, keeping himself close but making sure Baby had space just incase the younger wished to pull away. He knew conversations like this were uncomfortable. Baby didn’t do uncomfortable. He much preferred to deflect and handle his emotions and insecurities with sarcasm. Jinu didn’t want him to feel caged.
And yet, the younger boy leaned into his touch, chasing the warmth.
Jinu’s fingers moved downwards, massaging along the knobs of Baby’s spine. When Baby’s shoulder bumped his, Jinu curled his arm around him and rubbed his upper arm in slow, gentle strokes. He held him like that for a few quiet moments, letting the darkness blanket them as the midnight hour approached.
“Whatever happens, it’ll be okay,” Jinu said, breaking the silence. His voice spread like an echo in the darkness. “We will figure it out.”
He didn’t want to give Baby false hope, because Baby’s worries were legitimate. Stepping away from the lime-light of fame was still a very real possibility. It wouldn’t be their first obstacle as a group, and it wouldn’t be their last. But, whatever happened, they’d get through it. No one would be left behind. They moved forward as a unit, or they stepped back as one. There was no other compromise.
Baby hummed under his breath. He wasn’t fully convinced everything would be okay, but what other choice did he have but to hope? He slumped against Jinu’s side, curling into his warmth with a heavy sigh.
“I’m sorry,” he murmured, briefly meeting Jinu’s gaze before his stare returned to his lap. He squirmed, skin itching.
Jinu looked confused. “What for?”
“For what I said a moment ago. It was inconsiderate. I didn’t think, and…it just all came out wrong. I’m sorry.”
Jinu’s lips peeled back into a tender smile, the lines around his eyes softening. “There is nothing to forgive, really. But, thank you. I know this is a difficult time for you, B,” Jinu paused, squeezing Baby’s hand in an emphasis of his support. “ Just know we’re here for you, okay?”
Baby nodded, lips quirking into a half smile.
“If it makes you feel any better I’ll tell Myst to stop standing outside of your bathroom door when you shower.”
Baby snorted, clapping a hand over his mouth as his grin spread. He tried desperately to muffle his giggles, but he failed.
There it was. There was the joy.
Baby smiled at the older boy. His ribs ached, but in the best way. “While you’re at it can you make Romance stop laying my clothes out for me?”
Jinu laughed, cheeks turning pink. “I would, but in all seriousness, I think Romance would cry.”
“Ugh, he’s so dramatic,” Baby added, faking annoyance.
“True, but, he’s ours.”
Baby hums again, feeling lighter than he had minutes ago. “Though, I swear if he tries to spoon me in the middle of the night again I’ll disown him.”
“No you won’t.”
Baby grins. “Nah, you’re right. I won’t.”
Silence fell over them again. This time it was comfortable, welcomed even. Baby blinked sluggishly, a yawn passing his lips as he throws his hands up over his head in a stretch. The clock on the microwave read 12:22 a.m.
Jinu stroked the hairs on the nape of Baby’s neck, watching how the younger leaned into him like a cat allowing it’s owner to pet it. He half expected baby to purr.
“Feeling sleepy?”
Baby nodded, finding himself suddenly boneless. “I’m heading back to bed. Mystery won’t be happy if he wakes up and I’m not there.”
“True, we don’t want that,” Jinu agreed, pulling the book back into his lap.
“What about you?” Baby asked, standing and stretching again. The lift of his arms caused his shirt to ride up, showing the delicate curve of his mid-drift.
Cute, Jinu thought, smiling to himself. He cleared his throat.
“I’ll head to bed in a minute. I want to finish this chapter,” he said, motioning to the book. Truthfully, he had a lot to think about. Things to weigh out and consider. But none of it needed to further burden Baby. The boy had enough on his plate, both physically and emotionally.
Baby nodded, scratching the back of his head. “Thanks again, you know. For this…” Baby motioned to the couch, alluding to their recently transpired conversation. The sincerity behind his words felt awkward, but he meant them.
“Anytime, B. Sleep good, okay?”
“I’ll try,” Baby responded, stuffing his hands into the pockets of his sleep shorts and shuffling quietly down the hall.
Jinu watched him leave, sagging into the couch when he hears the soft click of Baby’s door closing behind him. Fuck.
He ran a hand over the length of his face, sighing deeply as he tried to wrap his head around the insecurities and frustrations Baby unloaded on him. It had been eye opening to say the least, and he felt equal parts relieved and concerned.
Baby’s worries were valid. It vexed him that he hadn’t realized just how much being a performer meant to Baby - how much joy it brought him. Baby thrived in the spotlight. He hadn’t realized because Baby had never said anything before. Or maybe he hadn’t realized because he hadn’t asked.
If Baby really wanted to continue performing, he’d find a way. He’d do anything to make sure they were all happy. They deserved it, after all. Hundreds of years in hell was enough repentance for all of their former sins. They had paid their due.
Jinu pulled out his phone and began researching.
He sat there for an hour more reading, going down every rabbit hole and skimming every article on epilepsy that looked vaguely promising. His eyes watered from holding the phone too close, and his neck grew stiff from leaning forward, posture be damned. Finally, he clicked on an article that made him immediately perk with interest. He brought the phone even closer.
This was it. Fuck, it was perfect.
Grinning, Jinu swiped the article away and pulled up Mira’s contact, hastily typing out a text. This couldn’t wait.
“I know its late. U don’t need 2 respond tonight, but text or call me in the morning. I have an idea and I need ur help. It’s for B.”
Jinu pressed send and grinned, flopping back against the chair with renewed optimism.
His phone pinged instantly, the screen lighting up.
“Its all good, i’m up. Binging Netflix. Whats up? Give me a call whenever.”
Jinu’s smile widened. He exited the text thread and hit the call button. Mira answered on the second ring, and before he knew it, dawn broke over the horizon.
“Where are you taking me?” Baby asked, quizzically looking over at Jinu as the older man navigated the streets of Seoul. It was odd they were driving without a company provided driver. It was even more odd that Jinu was driving. When did he get his license? “Better yet, why is everyone acting all weird?”
Baby turned in his seat, glancing back at the other three who were sitting there with knowing smirks and various stages of poorly concealed excitement.
Jinu peered in the rearview mirror, daring one of them to crack. None of them met his gaze, but rather pretended the view outside their windows were extremely interesting. Mystery was the only one that shrugged. He was the only one Jinu completely trusted to keep the secret. He had to threaten the others.
It was something Jinu and Mira planned and put into motion. They, along with the other Saja Boys and Zoey and Rumi, managed to keep it under wraps for the last four weeks. Bobby was let in on the surprise two weeks ago, and he quietly went to work making all necessary arrangements within the company to accommodate said surprise.
“Just be patient,” Jinu said, returning his eyes to the road. He reached over and patted Baby’s knee, grinning. Baby huffed and rolled his eyes, his arms coming up to fold across his chest.
“That is literally impossible,” he pouted, flicking Abby off when he heard him snicker.
“Hey now, be nice,” Jinu scolded, though he wasn’t serious. He was having a hard time holding in his amusement. “You won’t get your prize if you behave like a child.”
Baby snorted, rolling his neck to give Jinu an unimpressed look. “I’m legally underaged, so I’d say I’m behaving as expected.”
“Brat,” someone murmured from the back seat. Baby whipped his head around, glaring.
“I heard that. I’ll unbuckle right now and come back there so help me - “
“Okay! Okay, settle,” Jinu chided, grabbing Baby’s shoulder and shoving him back down in his seat. “I’d prefer not to wreck or get a citation today, thank you.”
Baby huffed again, resuming the childish pout that he decided he was going to roll with for the better part of the day. Any other day Jinu would be annoyed, but today, he found it endearing.
In Baby’s defense, he hadn’t gotten the news he wanted days prior. He had been in a funk ever since, and rightfully so.
He had been cleared to resume normal everyday activities, but his neurologist had yet to clear him to work. Performing was still up in the air. Whether or not he would get the “all clear” to continue in preparation for their comeback was still unknown. Baby was growing impatient - more so that he already was - but little did he know a plan had been in motion for weeks. A plan that may help him find a healthy balance.
Jinu was optimistic.
Baby glanced at Jinu from beneath his blue fringe. His eyes were still wary but he looked more resigned. He knew this was a battle he couldn’t win.
“Can you at least give me a hint?” Baby asked, purposefully pushing out his lower lip.
Jinu sighed. “It’s a surprise, B.”
“I know that, but can you all at least give me a hint as to what kind of surprise? It’s not my birthday or anything, so excuse me for being a little leery.”
“Ooooh, leery. Such a big boy word.” Romance joked, which earned him another glare from the youngest Saja boy. Romance covered his mouth with a hand to hide his grin.
“Can’t we give you a gift simply because we love you?” Abby added, looking earnest.
“First off, ew,” Baby said, sticking out his tongue. “Second off, you guys give me gifts all the time. Why is this one so…secretive? Oh God, please tell me you didn’t hire out a stripper.”
Mystery huffed and looked unimpressed. Romance had to hide his face further - his cheeks turning bright red from stifled laughter.
“No we didn’t…” Jinu paused, breathing slowly from his nose. If he hadn’t already put the car in park, he would’ve been tempted to turn the car around and try again another day. Tempted being the key word. He had put in too much time and effort making this happen to reschedule.
“Why don’t you stop complaining and go find out? We’re here,” he said, motioning to the quaint town home they had parked in front of.
It was a multi-story hanok, still holding much of it’s original charm. It had been updated to some degree, but from the outside it looked well loved and well taken care of. It was the type of home that Baby associated with comfort, and he paused in his complaining to fully appreciate the historically beautiful home.
Jinu smiled and turned off the car. “Well, are you going to get out?”
Baby gawked at him, eyes still cautious, but finally opened the door, climbing out of the passenger seat to stand on the sidewalk. He could truly admire the architectural beauty of the home now that he stood before it. Jinu moved to stand beside him, softly smiling, and Mystery flanked him on his right, looking pleased. Baby heard Abby and Romance pause in step behind him, and Mystery tilted his head enough to capture Baby’s attention.
“Ready to go in?”
“Why? What for? Did you guys buy me a house?!” Baby squawked.
Jinu shook his head. “No, silly. But I think you’ll like what we have for you inside.”
“If this is some weird ploy to have me murdered, just know I’m haunting you guys forever.”
Jinu rolled his eyes and grinned, gently shoving Baby forward. “Just go.”
Baby didn’t protest, but rather did as told and stepped up to the door, knocking gently. He waited a moment before raising his hand again, only to pause when the door creaked open. He was greeted by a kind, middle-aged woman whose eyes formed tiny crescents when she smiled.
“Oh, welcome! You must be Mr. Park,” she said, bowing in greeting towards Baby. Baby returned the bow, remaining polite. She smiled and made quick work to bow in acknowledgement when she noticed the other three men behind him.
“And you must be Jinu,” she said, turning to greet Jinu. “I recognize you from our video calls. It is a pleasure to finally meet you all, come in!”
Baby looked back at Jinu questionably, but Jinu simply nudged him forward.
Baby followed the woman through her home, admiring the pleasant smells and traditional decor that adorned the interior of the hanok. She led them through the halls, holding small talk as she ushered them forward, and opened a door that brought them into a well-kept outdoor space. It was beautifully landscaped with luscious plants and strategically placed lawn ornaments. A large Japanese maple grew in the corner of the fenced in area, providing natural shade, and at it’s base was a cute outdoor seating area with people already congregated and making themselves comfortable.
Baby paused, blinking as realization hit him.
The people already seated weren’t strangers. Why was Rumi, Mira, Zoey, and Bobby here?
He turned back to look at his four members, openly confused, only to be met with secretive smiles and knowing glances.
“What is going on?” He asked, turning his head back and forth to look between the two groups. “Why are you all here?”
Zoey giggled and Rumi smiled, but it was Mira that answered. “Because we were invited, duh.”
“Invited to what? What is this?” Baby shifted, looking ready to bolt. He didn’t like being surrounded - not without knowing why he was being celebrated.
Abby came up and tossed an arm around his shoulder, clapping Baby’s arm and leading him further into the yard. “Calm down, bud. Why are you so uptight?”
“I’m uptight because I have no clue what’s going on and everyone is being weirdly cryptic!”
“Maybe I can provide some answers,” the older woman said, drawing Baby’s attention back to her. Her smile was warm and her posture open and inviting.
“My name is Lee Haneul. I am a professional service dog trainer, and your friends here have been in contact with me for a number of weeks now. They told me your situation, and it so happened I had a few canines available that I thought would suit your particular needs.”
Baby still looked confused, head tilting. “I don’t understand…”
Jinu chuckled and came forward, grabbing Baby’s shoulders so that they were face to face. “Remember our conversation all those weeks ago?”
Baby nodded, though he remained puzzled.
“Well it got me thinking. I know how much performing means to you. You love this life, and the thought of not being able to continue bothers you.”
Baby opened his mouth to protest, but Jinu held up his hand. “I’m not finished.”
Baby’s jaw snapped shut, shoulders slumping.
“Abby told me that you expressed the same concern to him as well, and while I hope you know we’d never leave you or continue on in this profession without you, we wanted to give you something that may make living this lifestyle easier. You deserve to be happy, B. You deserve to live the life you want regardless of your illness, and maybe, just maybe, this is the answer.”
Baby looked around, meeting everyone’s gaze slowly. He skeptically waited for someone to inform him that this was all just some joke, but he was met with nothing but genuine looks of affection. His breath caught in his throat as he turned back to face Jinu.
“So…you’re saying you got me a dog?”
Jinu nodded.
“But, aren’t there waiting lists for service animals? I thought…I don’t understand how…”
Haneul took Baby’s hand in a way that didn’t startle him, and led him over to sit on a bench. She sat beside him, cradling the hand she held in her lap. She reminded Baby of a halmeoni, or how he pictured a halmeoni would act. Someone calm and with an affable presence. She smiled at him, and the whole world briefly slipped away.
“You’re correct,” she said, patting his hand. “Typically you would be on a waiting list, but I trained Nari, who happens to be Ms. Mira’s brother’s service dog. I’ve grown fond of her and her brother over time, and when she and Jinu reached out to me, I knew I needed to help.”
Baby looked over at Mira, eyes wide, and Mira simply grinned.
“But what about everyone else waiting? Isn’t someone else priority?”
“Honey,” Haneul cooed, observing him with maternal fondness, “from what I’ve learned, you’ve had a rough go of it over the last few years. You’ve dealt with matters that people your age should never have to go through or deal with. You’re a walking miracle, my dear. You are more than deserving. You’re priority in my book.”
Baby swallowed thickly, eyes blurring from unspilt tears. He sucked in a shaky breath, clinging to the older woman’s hands.
“And it so happens that I have a dog that perfectly matches your needs. When your friends reached out to me, I knew it was fate.”
As if on cue, a young man, maybe in his early twenties, came into the backyard leading a dog. Haneul’s smile widened.
“In fact, here is your match now.”
Baby turned, glassy eyes widening as the man led the dog closer. He stopped just a few feet from Baby and Hanuel and bowed, releasing the leash and backing up. Hanuel held out her hand, and the dog immediately came to her and placed it’s muzzle in her outstretched palm.
“This is Sunni. He is a two year old yellow labrador that recently completed his training. He is a bit of a ham if you ask me, but that’s a lab for you,” she said, chuckling when the dog licked her hand and wagged it's tail.
“Nevertheless, he is absolutely brilliant and passed all training levels with flying colors. He is proficient in many areas, such as being able to retrieve certain things such as medication for you on demand, but what made me think he was best suited for you is that he was specifically trained to detect physical and mental health changes. He is what we call an alert and response dog.”
Baby gawked, watching as the dog - Sunni - laid down by Haneul’s feet, it’s tongue lapping out in happy pants.
“What? Really? How is that possible?” Baby asked, looking astonished.
“Labradors are one of the few breeds known for it’s scenting abilities. While their noses aren’t as strong as hound breeds, they are still extremely skilled and aren’t as prone to wander off after a scent. Additionally, they are fantastic family dogs and eager to learn. He’ll take his job seriously, but he’ll make a wonderful companion as well.”
Baby was genuinely impressed. He exhaled in awe, mouth still agape. His lips twitched into a hint of a smile. The hint blossomed when Haneul guided Baby’s hand to Sunni’s head, encouraging him to pet the dog that was now apparently his.
At first, Baby’s touch was tentative. Sunni sniffed his wrist as Baby scratched behind his ear, and licked at his skin gently. Baby’s grin widened and he brought his other hand up to cradle the dog’s face, petting and scratching in earnest, practically draping himself over wiggling pup.
“See? He likes you,” Haneul said, handing Baby Sunni’s leash.
“I like him too, but -“ Baby paused and looked up, eyes large and hopeful. He kept his arms around Sunni’s neck, clinging as if he was scared the dog would be taken away. “Are you sure? Is he really mine?”
The youngest Saja looked from the girls, to Bobby, and then to his brothers. He was met with smiles and various nods, but it wasn’t until Jinu squatted beside him and patted his shoulder as said “Yes Baby, he’s yours,” that his hope became confirmed.
“Seriously?”
Mira chuckled, looking smug. “Seriously, B.”
Zoey squealed beside her, bouncing on her feet as she clung to both Rumi and Mira’s arms in delight.
Haneul chuckled, scratching the top of Sunni’s head. “You’ll still have to go through a two week training period with him just so he gets use to your scent and familiarizes himself with your needs, but he is one hundred percent yours. All the paperwork has been completed. Congratulations, you’re officially a dog owner.”
Baby was at a loss for words. This was…he could scarcely believe it. Never in his wildest dreams would he have ever imagined himself being the recipient of such a meaningful gift. It was truly incomprehensible. But, here he was with a lap full of yellow fur and the steady thump of a tail wagging between his thighs. This was real. Sunni was his.
Overwhelmed by emotions he could no longer contain, Baby’s face crumpled and he curled his arms around Sunni’s neck, sobbing. He pressed his face against the thick folds of the labrador’s neck, dampening it’s fur with his tears.
“Thank you, thank you all so much. I…”he cried, feeling the press of a warm body against his back and arms enfolding him. “I don’t know what to say. This is, wow. No one has ever done anything like this for me.”
“You don’t need to say anything, sweet heart,” Romance cooed against his ear. Jinu remained crouched by his side, one hand squeezing his shoulder, while Mystery and Abby joined the huddle with soft words and even gentler touches of their own.
“We want you to be happy, and we want you to live your life to the fullest. We can’t always be there to watch over you, no matter how much we want to, but with Sunni, you’ll be able to continue doing what you love,” Romance said, tucking a strand of Baby’s cerulean hair behind his ear.
“Ro’s right,” Mystery added, meeting Baby’s tearful gaze. He reached out and carefully wiped away a new swell of tears. “Jinu talked with your neurologist. Once your training period with Sunni is completed, she’s willing to approve your work request so that you can resume performing. She thinks Sunni will be highly beneficial in assisting you.”
“Yeah!” Abby chimed, grinning like a fool. “I think she was just as excited as we were when she found out what Jinu was planning.”
Baby’s breath stuttered, overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and information. He turned slowly to look at Jinu. He released his death grip on Sunni and threw himself at the older man, wrapping his arms around his shoulders tightly.
Jinu grunted with the impact, but quickly steadied himself and returned Baby’s hug, cradling his maknae close.
“Thank you,” Baby murmured against his shoulder. “Thank you so much.”
Jinu smiled and tightened his hold, resting his cheek against the crown of Baby’s head. “You’re very welcome."
Being a typical labrador, Sunni scampered forward, chasing the salt on Baby’s cheeks with his tongue, which earned a chuckle from both Baby and Jinu. Sunni’s tail wagged in earnest.
Baby wiped his cheeks and nose with the back of his sleeve, and pulled away to look up at Mira.
“And thank you,” he said, watching her dragon eyes widen in surprise. It was apparent she hadn’t expected to be singled out by his gratitude. Mira’s cheeks flushed and she ducked her head, trying to act as nonchalant as possible, kicking the dirt with the toe of her boot.
“Yeah,” she replied, clearing her throat awkwardly. “Of course. Lets not make a big deal of it.”
Baby smirked, and Mira shook her head. She then huffed and reached out to ruffle his hair with a roll of her eyes.
“So, can I take him home today, or?”
Bobby clapped his hands together and stepped forward. “Yes! All arrangements have been made. Your first training session with him will be the day after tomorrow, but we all felt it would be good to let you bring him home and get started familiarizing him with your routine. He will be going with you everywhere, so the sooner he gets settled and comfortable, the better.”
Baby was overwhelmed. It all seemed unreal. Never would he have ever imagined that he’d be the recipient of such affection - not after his grueling history of abuse and neglect. And now, he had been given the best gift. Not just a dog, oh no, but a reason to keep going. He had a reason to keep pushing for a normal life, and he wasn’t going to take it for granted.
Better yet, he had something that was just his. Sunni was his dog. Nothing had ever been just his.
Baby had always been the one in the group being taken care of, and while Sunni had his own job to do, Baby now had something he could take care of. He had a purpose beyond his career, beyond himself, and gratitude blossomed within his core, lighting up his face with utter joy.
“Ready to go home?” Mystery asked, smiling softly.
Baby sniffed and nodded, smiling brightly as he climbed out of Jinu’s arms. “Yeah, I am.”
He reached over and ruffled the fur between Sunni’s ears, taking his leash from Haneul when she offered it to him.
“I’ll be by regularly for the first few weeks to make sure you both are adjusting well, but I think based on why I’ve seen so far those check ins will be solely social visits. You look quite taken with each other,” she said, her gaze fond as it flickered between the boy and his dog. “I think this is a match made in heaven.”
Baby’s cheeks ached from smiling so much, tear tracks drying as he found himself smushed happily between his little family, which now included Sunni.
He bowed to Haneul, bending as low as he could at the waist, visibly expressing his gratitude. “Thank you, Ms. Lee. I will be forever grateful.”
She scoffed and waved her hand, urging him to stand. “Oh honey, there is no need. I’m just happy one of my pups found a match.”
Haneul reached over and cupped Baby’s chin, searching his eyes with a gentleness reserved only for the most deserving. Baby was undoubtedly deserving.
“You’re very fortunate, sweet boy, to have some many people who love you. Never take that for granted,” she said, pausing to give Baby a moment to blink away fresh tears. “You may have had a rough go of it early on, but those days are over. Enjoy what you have, yes?”
Baby nodded, letting himself be pulled back into a side hug by Abby. “I will.”
Haneul looked down at her watch before clasping her hands behind her back. “Well, you all are welcome to stay, but I have a feeling Mr. Park is eager to take Sunni home. It has been an absolute pleasure.”
Jinu stepped up and shook her hand, thanking her quietly, and Mira gave her a rare hug. Once they had all exchanged their goodbyes, Baby tugged Sunni’s leash, leading him through the garden and out to their car.
“Do you think we need to call for another car since we’re heading home with an extra family member?” Abby asked, opening the back door to slide in.
“Nah,” Baby said, hopping into the front seat. “He can sit up here with me.”
“But he’s huge,” Jinu added, chuckling as Baby maneuvered Sunni into the floorboard of the front seat, only to end up with a lap full of labrador retriever.
“It's okay,” Baby grunted, adjusting the placement of Sunni’s paws. He curled his arms around him, clinging to him like a child would it’s favorite stuffed animal. “It's no worse than that time Abby mistook me for a couch cushion and plopped down on me.”
“Hey!” Abby barked, pretending to look offended. “That was ONE TIME.”
“And I have a feeling Sunni taking up the front seat won’t be a one time deal,” Romance chimed, chuckling as he leaned forward to scratch the dog’s muzzle.
“I have a feeling you’re right.”
Jinu smiled, watching his family’s interactions with a look of utmost fondness. Baby caught his gaze and smiled sweetly, tucking his chin between Sunni’s shoulder and neck. The dog panted happily, it's tongue flopping out.
“Thank you,” he mouthed, soft enough that only Jinu could hear.
Jinu nodded, short and sweet, practically glowing from untampered happiness. He radiated gratification. “Lets go home, yeah?”
Baby breathed out, relaxing into his service companion. "Yeah, lets."
If Jinu could bottle up any moment to treasure forever, this was the one he'd choose. His family, together, happy. He needed nothing more.