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Wonwoo let himself fall down on the floor breathing hard when the music stopped. Dance practice was running late as always when award season was around - or any season to be honest. It didn't matter if it was an award show, special stages, a comeback, a world tour, or something else. He felt lightheaded and out of breath. They have been practicing for hours now. Wonwoo closed his eyes, gasping for air. After some time he opened them again and stared at the ceiling until the big lights on the ceiling didn't blur in front of his eyes anymore. He sat up slowly against one of the big wall mirrors, taking a big gulp from his water bottle, and looked around the room. Hoshi and Minghao were going tirelessly through some details from the dance break. DK, Seungkwan, and Dino were looking at something on Seungkwan’s phone, probably the recording of the dance practice judging by the serious look on their faces. Woozi lay sprawled out on the floor a few meters away from him not moving at all. Joshua, Vernon, and Seungcheol were sitting beside him to catch their breath, scrolling through their phones. He let his gaze wander through the rest of the room, but couldn't find the one person he was actually looking for: Mingyu. Gyu probably went out with Jun and Jeonghan, who were also not present. Wonwoo leaned his head against the mirror closing his eyes. He felt drowsy and exhausted. It didn't help either that the minor headache he had since this morning turned into a severe headache. He couldn't wait to get home take a shower and get some sleep.
Wonwoo was startled awake when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He must have dozed off. It couldn't have been long from the looks of it, but he still felt slightly disorientated. He blinked confused and shook his head gently to clear his mind.
“Hey, everything okay?” Mingyu was crouching in front of him with a strange look on his face. Wonwoo nodded slowly. “Yeah, I'm good,” he answered with a raspy voice, quickly clearing his throat.
“You sure? You look pale,” Mingyu brushed some stray strands of hair out of his face. It felt nice. Mingyu’s fingers in his hair always felt comforting. Not that he would admit it. Wonwoo hummed content.
“I'm exhausted, but we all are, nothing special,” Wonwoo said nonchalantly, taking another sip from his water bottle.
“Are you running a fever? Your skin feels pretty hot,” Mingyu noted concerned. Wonwoo smiled inwardly, he thought it was sweet how Mingyu always made sure that he was alright.
“Gyu, I'm okay. I will say it when I'm at my limit. Don't worry. I will take some painkillers at home and will be okay tomorrow. Promise!” Wonwoo reassured him. Mingyu pouted, before holding out some snacks to him.
“Want some?”
“Sure, thanks,” Wonwoo answered reaching for one of the snacks and started nibbling on it.
He wasn't feeling hungry, but it had been a while since he ate and that hadn’t even been a whole meal, because he started feeling queasy as soon as he ate something. An upset stomach was the last thing he would have needed with a whole day of practice ahead. So he had skipped his meals. Mingyu let himself flop next to him so that their arms and thighs were pressed together even though there was enough space. He felt Mingyu’s warmth seep through his clothes. Although his skin felt hot, Wonwoo was cold. It had always been that way. His body tended to feel cold, it wasn't like he had bad circulation, he just had cold hands and feet no matter what.
“You done?” Mingyu asked suddenly breaking the comfortable silence between them when he had eaten the last bite of his snack.
“Yes?” Wonwoo replied warily eyeing his friend. Mingyu was up to something, but he didn't know what it was.
“Good,” was all his friend said before draping his arm around Wonwoo, pressing him against his body. It was like he was covered by a human blanket. He whined at him that he felt like cuddling. They both knew that it wasn't that simple. Mingyu tried to shield his body from the chill he felt. Even though Mingyu was slightly sweaty which should feel and smell gross he felt safe and warm in Mingyu’s embrace. Mingyu was always different for him. He knew the younger one would always be there for him. So Wonwoo let himself relax, forgetting that he was tired, that his body was in pain, that dance practice would continue in a few minutes after their half an hour break. Mingyu took his smaller hand into his own, intertwining their fingers, resting his head on Wonwoo’s shoulder like so often. Gyu was always out for body contact. Still, it always amazed him how small the younger man could make himself to fit on his shoulder.
“Just a little bit more and practice will be over. You can do it,” Mingyu whispered in a low voice into his ear so that only he could hear him. Wonwoo nodded slightly, giving Mingyu’s fingers a light squeeze as a thank you. Mingyu always could read him so well and knew exactly what he needed. All the members knew themselves inside and out and could read the mood the others were in or when somebody was feeling under the weather and it was best to leave them alone, but Mingyu was always so quick to figure out what Wonwoo needed even when he didn't know it himself yet. It still sucked to feel like shit at dance practice when you had an important performance coming up. They all wanted to perform so badly and even more because Carats would be there. He wanted to meet them. And he didn't want to disappoint them with his performance when they were eagerly waiting to see them perform live again.
“My whole body hurts,” Wonwoo groaned while playing lazily with Mingyu’s fingers.
“Believe me, mine too. I feel like I won’t be able to lift a muscle tomorrow.”
„Come on guys, the break is over. Let‘s get through the whole performance from start to finish,” their choreographer called them all together, cutting their conversation short.
Sighing Mingyu detached himself from Wonwoo and got up, holding out a hand to pull him up.
„Let‘s do this. Carats are looking forward to the stage, so let‘s give everything,” Gyu said, smiling happily at the thought of performing in front of Carats once again. He gave Wonwoo one last gentle pat on the side before going over to his starting position.
Wonwoo instantly regretted standing up while going to his position. His headache was still there, the dizziness and the muscle pains as well. This was going to be fun. The good thing was, after all these years of being an idol, your body goes by muscle memory, you learn to just pull through no matter how tired you feel or in how much pain you were, because of professionalism.
Dance practice continued and even though they were all exhausted nobody made mistakes, got out of sync, or ended up in the wrong position anymore. They were at the last run-through when Wonwoo stumbled over his own feet from exhaustion, crashing hard on the floor, twisting his ankle in the process. Nothing serious, but it still hurt. Wonwoo grimaced from pain, holding his ankle.
“Wonwoo! Are you alright?” Seungcheol asked shocked, face serious.
“I'm alright. It’s nothing. Sorry, I was clumsy. Let’s start from the top,” Wonwoo called while trying to stand up, just to get a cramp in his legs and fall down again. Great. Before he knew what was happening, Mingyu and Minghao were by his side steadying him and pulling him on his feet.
“Did you twist your ankle? Let me tape it before we go again,” Minghao offered brows furrowed. Everybody was tense and looking at him with worry. An injured member shortly before an important stage was never fun.
“I think so, but it’s okay. I got a cramp while standing up. I will take care of it at home. Let’s start all over again so that we can go home,” Wonwoo assured. He didn't want to be the reason everyone had to wait longer to call it a day. Mingyu looked at him sharply, pressing his hand softly but reassuringly against the small of his back before sighing.
“Alright. I will make sure that his foot is fine when we are home,” Mingyu promised. Wonwoo smiled at his friend thankfully. The members knew that Mingyu was the best at taking care of Wonwoo, so they agreed to let it slide. They trusted Mingyu, after all nobody knew the cat-lover better than the giant puppy of their group.
“Don't make light of it, Wonwoo. When you still feel pain tomorrow promise to go to the hospital,” Minghao told him sternly.
“Of course, of course. Don't worry guys.”
They started again, this time running smoothly through the whole performance and calling it a day. Everybody was glad to go home finally. They packed their stuff and made their way to their respective dorms discussing what food they would order and who would take a shower first. Wonwoo slowly hobbled behind the other members to the car that would take Mingyu and him home since they lived in the opposite direction. The weather had gotten colder, it was December after all. The pain in his ankle got worse from the last run-through, but he had had worse. He saw Mingyu walking ahead of him talking to DK, but Wonwoo saw him looking back to him more often than not, before excusing himself from the vocalist and letting himself fall back to his pace.
“How’s the pain?” Gyu asked laying a comforting hand on his back and rubbing it gently, before putting his arm around his shoulder.
“Just sore from the last run-through, I will put some ointment on it at home and I’ll be fine in the morning.”
“Let me have a look at home, okay?” Gyu said looking at him thoughtfully. “How’s your head? You still look pale and tired. Don't tell me you are fine. I know you are not,” Mingyu touched his forehead and sides of his face quickly to check his temperature and frowned.
“My head is killing me. Can’t wait to shower and sleep as long as possible.”
“Sounds like a plan. Want me to order us some food?” the other asked.
“Sure, order whatever you feel like,” Wonwoo didn't say out loud that he still wasn't particularly hungry.
When they arrived at their car, they climbed in and sat in the back. Normally they would sit further apart using the space the car had to offer when it was only the both of them, but apparently, Mingyu still was worrying about him. He didn't say anything, but Wonwoo felt touched that the younger was concerned about him. The other scrolled through his phone with one hand, probably looking through the delivery services, obvious that he was staring at him. Gyu’s other hand was resting on Wonwoo’s thigh, drawing lazy circles on it. Wonwoo put his earbuds in and scrolled through his playlists, before choosing one with soothing songs. He started getting drowsy when he watched the lights and buildings outside pass by, his eyes closing every now and then on their own accord. Mingyu’s warmth felt so nice. He felt comfortable. He reached for the other man’s hoodie sleeve where it met his hand, curling his fingers around the soft material, searching for more warmth. What he couldn't see was that the other man looked up from his phone with an apprehensive look on his face. Mingyu was saying something to him, but he couldn't make out his word. A few seconds later he fell asleep surrounded by Mingyu’s warm and calming presence beside him while the car drove through the night towards their shared home.
When they arrived at their apartment Mingyu carefully woke Wonwoo up by calling his name softly and shaking his shoulder. He startled awake and blinked confused at his roommate.
“We’re home. Come on, let’s go upstairs. You can go to sleep when you have showered.”
Wonwoo nodded wordlessly, still half asleep, and gathered his things before making his way out of the car. Wonwoo flinched when a sharp pain shot through his ankle, having forgotten that it was still sore, stumbling slightly forwards.
“Be careful, hyung,” Gyu said softly while steadying him by his shoulders. “Come on, let’s go.” Mingyu curled his fingers around Wonwoo’s wrist and dragged him gently along to their apartment.
Inside their flat, Mingyu put off his shoes and helped Wonwoo to get out of his shoes and jacket. Everything blurred in front of Wonwoo’s eyes. He was so tired. He didn't know what was happening, he did feel so much worse all of a sudden. Each step became heavier and sluggish.
“Wonwoo, are you still with me?”
“Hmm,” the addressed man replied weakly, his fingers holding on to Mingyu who stood in front of him, hands on both sides of his shoulder driving soothing circles with his thumbs on his arms. Everything was spinning. He felt sick. Dark spots danced in front of his eyes until his feet no longer wanted to support him. Mingyu was there in an instant to catch him.
“Hyung! Are you going to black out? What’s wrong?” Out of reflex Wonwoo put his arm around Mingyu’s waist, the taller man now supporting nearly his full weight, guiding him to the couch, “It’s okay, I got you. Stay with me. Come on, let’s go over to the couch and lay you down.” A few steps away from the couch his legs finally gave fully out under him making him fall forward. Mingyu quickly caught him, pressing him against his chest to hold him upright so he wouldn’t crash on the floor. Wonwoo let out a soft whine, feeling helpless. The static in his ears was so loud. He tried to say something, but it was no more than a croak and some gibberish.
Mingyu rubbed his back comfortingly, murmuring soft words to him.
“I'm here, Wonwoo. Don't worry, you are going to be alright. I think you are coming down with something. Let’s put you on the couch, buddy, okay?” Mingyu unceremoniously put one arm under his legs and carried him bridal style the last few meters to the couch, lying him down gently. Gyu knelt in front of the couch, putting a calming hand on the other’s chest, rubbing it soothingly.
“You with me again?,” Mingyu asked softly after a while.
Wonwoo nodded slowly, licking his lips. He took in the surroundings of their shared living room with their framed photography on the walls behind their couch. The static in his ears slowly went away.
“I'm okay for now, thank you. Sorry, I didn't think it was that bad,” he apologized looking at Mingyu, gaze still a little unfocused.
“It’s okay, don't worry. I will get you some water and meds. Just stay still and don't move, I will be right back,” Mingyu told him, before going to the kitchen. Wonwoo slowly lifted his arms and took of his glasses to rub his face with his hands. Shit, he had blacked out. He didn't like how fast his condition took a turn for the worse.
A few minutes later Mingyu reappeared with the promised water bottle and medication giving it to Wonwoo, taking the glasses from the older and putting them on their coffee table in front of the couch. Wonwoo sat up slowly against the backrest of their black leather couch. The room finally had stopped spinning. He took the pills and water bottle thankfully from his friend, squinting at the pills.
“Don't worry. This one is a pain killer for your headache and something to reduce your fever and those two are cold medicine,” Mingyu explained pointing at each of the pills.
“Thanks,” Wonwoo said swallowing the meds and sinking back into the couch and closed his eyes. “This is not how I imagined tonight would go. The next performance is in three days. I finally want to perform again and not be stuck at home because I'm sick,” Wonwoo complained pulling his hoody sleeves over his hands making sweater paws.
“You still don't know that. Like you said there are still three days left. A lot can happen in three days’ time,” Mingyu said encouragingly, trying to stay positive, sitting down on the other side of the couch, propping up his head on his arm which rested on the back of the couch. “Maybe it’s just a bug and you will feel fine by tomorrow. Maybe you just need some rest. And even if you have to sit out the performance, your health is more important.”
Wonwoo made a disapproving noise.
“What? Do we have to have the conversation again? You are important, hyung!” Mingyu burst out sternly with a frown.
The only answer the other got, was Wonwoo fidgeting with his fingers and cracking them as a nervous habit, dropping his gaze on the floor.
Mingyu huffed and leaned forward to hold the hands of the other before pulling Wonwoo into his arms so that his back was pressed against his chest. At first, Wonwoo struggled against the hold of the younger not being in the mood to be held but then complied. There was no escape from the giant puppy anyway.
“Hey, what’s up. What’s going on in your mind?” Mingyu asked softly. Wonwoo sighed shaking his head, “Nothing, sorry. I'm just tired... and I guess frustrated. I know my health comes first and work is work and it’s not worth risking my health for it.”
“That’s right, your health is very important and you are even more important to me. Even when the world is against you I will always love you. So you have to rest to get better, okay?” Mingyu murmured softly into Wonwoo’s ears, squishing their cheeks together before pressing a soft long kiss on his temple. Warmth spread all over his body that had nothing to do with his fever. Mingyu was so cheesy sometimes. This was so embarrassing. Wonwoo coughed ears burning and cleared his throat.
“Stop this idiot or you will get sick, too,” Wonwoo scolded him. “Go take a shower, you smell.”
And like that the moment between them was gone. The weird tension that sometimes was between them drove him crazy. It wasn't like he didn't love the other back. He probably loved him more than Mingyu was aware of.
“Hyung, you are mean. I do not smell,” Mingyu pouted, smelling his own shirt. He did in fact not smell bad, but that didn't matter. Wonwoo hid his smile in his sweater paws so that his friend couldn't see it.
“Whatever. If you don't go take a shower, I will,” Wonwoo teased.
“Hyung...I don't think this is a good idea. I don't want you to crack your head open because you black out again,” Mingyu stopped him, suddenly serious again.
“I know, but I don't care. I feel gross from practice.”
“I think it would be better to wait until tomorrow morning,” Wonwoo knew the younger had a point, but hell if he would admit that, “and I still have to check your ankle,” Mingyu reminded him.
“Wait until I have showered otherwise you can do it again…,” Wonwoo’s answer was cut short by the ringing of the bell. “Did you call somebody?” Wonwoo asked warily.
“Uhh no,” the other answered standing up, “that’s probably the delivery guy, I ordered food when I got your meds. You are going to eat something if you like it or not. I will get it. Just stay put and don't move.”
“Then how am I supposed to eat if I'm not allowed to move?” Wonwoo called cheekily after Mingyu who was making his way to the door. Teasing Mingyu was such fun.
“Oh just wait and see,” Mingyu snorted from the hallway.
Wonwoo laughed softly which promptly turned into a coughing fit. With all the bickering and teasing going on he nearly forgot that he still felt like shit. It wasn't like he magically got better in the last five minutes. It was probably the meds kicking in. A fond smile stayed on Wonwoo’s lips. It was so like Mingyu to make sure that he was eating even when he didn't feel like it. It was kinda cute.
Mingyu came back with a bag of food which he placed on the table, sat down next to him and pulled one container after the other out of the bag, arranging them on the table.
“Do you want to put your glasses back on?” Mingyu asked when they blocked the space where he wanted to put the last container.
“Depends. What did you get me?”
“Soup for you to get healthy and Chicken and soup for me,” Gyu told him in a singsong voice while re-arranging the containers on the coffee table and taking off the lids of the boxes. “Don't worry, you can have some chicken from me if you feel up to it.”
Wonwoo changed his position on the couch to get closer to the table. He put on his glasses, took the chopsticks and spoon Mingyu offered him and started eating the soup. Even though he was not particularly hungry the soup was good and it felt nice to get something hot into him. After a while he noticed Mingyu staring at him.
“What?” he asked confused.
“Nothing...” the other said evasively and continued eating his meal. They continued eating in silence while watching some show on TV. When Wonwoo felt full he put down his chopsticks and let himself sink against the back of the couch, watching Mingyu eat from the corner of his eyes.
“Full?” he asked him.
“Hmm.”
“Is there still room for one piece of chicken?” Mingyu offered, showing him the piece of chicken he held up with his chopsticks.
“I think I can manage that,” Wonwoo agreed with a small smile. Mingyu put the piece down on Wonwoo’s spoon and waited for him to eat it.
“Good?”
“Tasty,” Wonwoo deadpanned imitating himself from one of the Going Seventeen episodes which made Gyu giggle. The sound of the other’s happy giggling always made his heart flutter. He kept watching Gyu finishing his meal TV show forgotten until he dozed off again.
“Hey Wonu,” Mingyu said softly, ruffling Wonwoo’s hair to wake him up for the nth time this day. Sleepily he opened his eyes, looked at his friend and yawned. The younger was playing with his hair at the nape of his neck. He had to stop himself to lean into Gyu’s touch. He must have slept for a while because Mingyu had cleaned up and taken shower already now wearing his black pajamas. He couldn't stop marveling over them: Gyu and his black pajamas, they suited him so much with his black hair, pearly white teeth, pointy canines, olive skin, and cute sm-.… No, he wasn't going there.
“Did I fall asleep again?” he asked groggily, pushing his hair away from his forehead.
“Hmm, you did. How do you feel? Still want to take that shower?”
“Tired. Sore. I definitely want to take a shower though,” Wonwoo replied. The younger sighed.
“Thought so. Okay then, follow me. Let’s have that shower, I will stay in the room with you, just to make you don't crack your head open. And after that, you will finally let me have a look at your ankle.”
“Yes, mom,” He rolled his eyes. “Put some ointment on it and tape it and I will be good. I can even do it by myself,” Wonwoo said slightly annoyed that everybody was fussing about his stupid ankle. He was more bothered that he was coming down with something. He stood up and walked into the bathroom, followed by Mingyu.
“I know, I know, I'm just looking out for you, don't get worked up... I- I will get you fresh clothes… Call me if you feel dizzy...,” Mingyu muttered and walked into Wonwoo’s room sulking. He felt bad, he didn't mean to sound ungrateful after everything Gyu did for him today. He would be off much worse if not for him. Wonwoo sighed, rubbing at his temple.
Damn it!
He would apologize when he had showered. He already had to suppress the urge to turn around immediately and give Gyu a hug. He worried at his lower lip and went into the bathroom. When he stood under the shower he could hear that Mingyu came in busying himself at the sink. He was probably brushing his teeth and doing his skincare routine. But he didn't talk to him like he normally would. Wonwoo sighed, the sound being swallowed by the noise of the running water. He was quick to finish his shower and got out of it. Gyu still stood at the sinks, Wonwoo watched him through the mirror that was slowly fogging up, but the other didn't look up to meet his eyes through the mirror. He dressed quickly in the comfortable clothes Mingyu had brought him. He noticed that he had bought him his favorite hoody and jogging pants even when he was mad at him. Gyu still pretended to be busy, but Wonwoo knew that the other was just sulking. When Wonwoo had towel-dried his hair he put his towel around his shoulder before slowly going over to Gyu. There was still a slight discomfort when he walked, but it was much better than a few hours ago. He opened his mouth to say something, but then decided against it and instead wrapped his arms around Mingyu’s waist, back-hugging him, and leaned his forehead against the other’s shoulder.
“Gyu…,” he started saying, “I'm sorry, I didn't mean to snap at you. I'm glad you are looking after me. I just don't feel good. You know how I get when I'm overwhelmed.” Wonwoo pulled at the other’s pajamas to finally get him to look at him again or say something. At first, Mingyu didn't butch, but then he wordlessly took his hands and turned in his embrace, pulling Wonwoo in and hugging him back, burying his face in the crook of his neck.
“It’s okay, I'm not mad at you. I just don't like seeing you suffer. So I don't know what else to do than fuss over you. I want to see you happy,” Mingyu slightly detached himself from Wonwoo taking the towel from his shoulder, towel-drying his hair gently with it. It was the comfort he needed.
“You know I'm always happy when I'm with you. You will always be my safe place, my home,” Wonwoo said softly looking into Mingyu’s eyes.
A small but happy smile appeared on the other man’s lips. Mingyu seemed to be looking for words for a few seconds but then decided to just press another long kiss on Wonwoo’s forehead. Wonwoo smiled.
“You know, you are also my home. I really like your shoulders, they are a very comfy place.”
“Do you only like me for my shoulders?” Wonwoo teased carefully.
“No. I like you for you. You are all I need,” Mingyu whispered in his ear and pressed another kiss beneath it which probably was a bit longer than it should for a friendly kiss. Wonwoo unconsciously closed his eyes, suppressing a shiver. His heart pounded wildly in his chest. His friend was killing him today with his flirty ways. He wasn't sure if the other was aware of what he was doing to him or if he did it on purpose, but nonetheless, it was very effective. Caught in the tender moment Wonwoo caressed the side of Mingyu’s face, still looking fondly at the younger man. He wished the moment would last forever but suddenly had to pull away when a sneeze shook his body so that he had to turn quickly away from the other to not sneeze on him which made Mingyu laugh.
“Let me blow-dry your hair. The air is cold,” Mingyu offered gently, looking for their hair-dryer in the bathroom cabinet, “go sit on the bathtub.”
Mingyu plugged in the hairdryer and tested the temperature of it.
“Tell me if the air gets too hot.”
“Hmm,” Wonwoo replied. Mingyu weaved his hand through his hair to dry them and fluff them up, checking if there were still wet strands somewhere.
“I think your hair is dry,” Mingyu told him finally in a low voice and turned off the hairdryer. He kept running his fingers through his hair gently. Wonwoo leaned his forehead against the stomach of the other, wrapping his arms around him. He didn't want him to stop.
“Gyu…” he sighed nearly inaudible. He felt weird, emotional which wasn't like him.
“It’s okay. I'm here. What is it?”
“Don't go…”
“I'm here. I'm not going anywhere,” Mingyu reassured him and gently pulled his face away from him, feeling this temperature. “You are burning up, Wonu,” Gyu said with a frown, “Come on, let’s go to your room. I will take a quick look at your ankle and then you can finally go to sleep.”
“Okay,” Wonwoo agreed. He once again felt exhausted. Gyu gently took his hand, intertwining their fingers and guiding him to his bedroom and bed. He lay down on the cold mattress. He couldn't decide if he liked the coldness of it or not.
“I will get the ointment and tape. Just get comfy in the meantime, okay?” Mingyu suggested, giving him a last gentle pat. Wonwoo hummed again.
He nearly fell asleep again, startling slightly when Mingyu came back and sat down on the edge of his bed.
“Just sleep. It’s just me.”
“Hmm.”
Mingyu pulled down his sock, and prodded his skin around the ankle, feeling for swellings.
“It’s not swollen, I'm glad. It will get cold for a sec. I will put the ointment on.” Wonwoo sleepily made a hand gesture for the other to go on and get over with it. He dozed off again, while his friend rubbed the ointment in and taped his ankle and foot.
“Wonu, I'm done. It’s not bad like you said,” Mingyu said and tucked him in gently when he had finished his task, but stayed by his side.
“Told you so,“ Wonwoo slurred. He felt really groggy and sore, “Stay until I fall asleep?”
“Of course, love, don't worry, just go to sleep,” Gyu said softly drawing lazy circles on his clad thigh. Wonwoo reached for the other’s hand and tucked at it as a gesture that he should lie down beside him. He knew he would be embarrassed for his actions in the morning, he really was out of his mind but he didn't want the other to leave his room. Gyu wordlessly lay on top of his blanket beside him, cupping his face.
“Shh, I won’t go anywhere, hyung,” Gyu gently kissed him on the cheek. “Sleep and rest. Tomorrow is a new day.”
Wonwoo snuggled up against Mingyu’s body.
“Night, Gyu, love you,” Wonwoo whispered hoarsely.
“Love you, too, with all my heart,” Mingyu said fondly.
Wonwoo slept fitfully until he woke up coughing and with a sore throat in the middle of the night. He definitely wasn't feeling better. He sat up and coughed again, looking for the light switch of his bedside lamp. The light went on without his doing revealing a sleepy Mingyu who still lay beside him on the blanket. He must have fallen asleep there before going to his own bed. The clock said 3:41 am.
“You okay? That sounds nasty… Want me to make you some tea?” Mingyu asked caressing his arm.
“I feel like shit, to be honest. A cup of tea would be nice. Thank you,” he croaked.
“Okay lie back down, I will be back with a cup of tea in a sec,” Mingyu told him, making sure Wonwoo was lying down again and covering him with the blanket.
Ten minutes later Mingyu was back with a steaming cup of tea, some meds, and a water bottle. Wonwoo took everything before drinking some of the hot tea. Mingyu sat back down on the bed next to Wonwoo.
“Gyu, go to your bed. You have an early schedule. It must be uncomfortable and cold.”
“It’s fine, I can manage. I wanna stay with you.”
“But you will get sick too if you stay too close to me all the time,” Wonwoo whined but still covered Gyu with his blanket, not wanting to let him stay out in the cold.
“Don't worry,” Mingyu said soothingly before changing the subject. “Are you still running a fever?” Mingyu put a hand on the other’s forehead to check.
“I think so, but it’s not that bad,” Wonwoo answered and took another sip of his tea, coughing again and again.
“Yeah, looks like it. You really should go to the hospital in the morning,”
“I will. Don't worry. Let’s go back to sleep,” Wonwoo said giving Mingyu his cup to put it down on the bedside table beside him.
“Do you still feel cold?”
“Hmm. Hot, cold and everything between.”
“Then come here,” Mingyu whispered softly, spooning Wonwoo and intertwining their fingers in front of his chest. Wonwoo was too tired to tell his friend that this was a bad idea again. So he just got comfortable in the other’s embrace, enjoying the additional body heat.
Morning came way too fast for Wonwoo’s liking. He still felt groggy. He woke up when Mingyu silently tried to get up to get ready for his schedule.
“Is it morning already?” Wonwoo whispered sleepily.
“Yeah, sorry, I have to get ready. I will let the others know that you are sick and will ask manager-hyung to make a hospital appointment for you. Go back to sleep, hmm? I will wake you up when I have to leave, okay?” Mingyu replied gently, playing with Wonwoo’s hair.
“Okay...” Wonwoo answered lying back down, snuggling back into his warm covers but missing the other’s body already.
What felt like a blink of an eye Mingyu woke him up again. The other sat on the edge of his bed, looking at him tenderly. Wonwoo blinked sleepily at his friend wondering what he was thinking about.
“I have to go,” Mingyu told him softly before pointing to the bedside table. “Here, I brought you some more meds and a cup of tea. I let the others know that you are not feeling well, maybe check the group chat later and tell them that you are still alive, they are being… well you know them, they are being a little bit dramatic.”
Wonwoo chuckled. This was so like them.
“Thanks. Have fun at your photoshoot and be your amazing clumsy self, don't destroy the props.”
Mingyu laughed. “Will do. Manager-hyung will call you when he picks you up for the hospital appointment.”
“Okay… See you later.”
“Take care,” Mingyu pressed a soft kiss on the back of Wonwoo’s hand. “I will be back as soon as possible.”
With that the other left. Their flat seemed so quiet suddenly. Wonwoo looked at his hand where Mingyu kissed him and smiled. Not that he would admit it, but he already couldn’t wait until Mingyu would come back home in the evening. He took the meds Mingyu brought him and checked the battery of his phone before plugging it in to let it charge and making sure that it wasn't on silent so that he wouldn’t miss the call of their manager. He sipped some of the tea while scrolling through his phone and checking his messages. Mingyu was right. The members did behave like he was dying, other members wished him well instead. He texted them back that es was resting and not to worry about him, before getting some more shut-eye.
The ringing of his phone woke him up about two hours later. It was their manager telling him, that he would pick him up around 10:30 to get his check-up at the hospital. Wonwoo sighed deciding to get ready. There was no way he was pulling of their stage in two days’ time in his condition. He rubbed a hand over his face before standing up slowly and getting ready. When he got to their kitchen he saw that Mingyu had prepared a light meal for him. There was a sticky note next to it: Eat well and feel better soon =) I Love you.
Wonwoo smiled a warm feeling spreading through his body. This was such a Mingyu thing to do, but he did expect nothing less from Seventeen’s best eater, so he always made sure that everybody was eating. They were the exact opposite of each other, but maybe this was the reason why they complemented each other so perfectly like the moon and the sun they were.
He ate scrolling through his phone and checking their group chat again. The members still were bummed that he fell ill and tried to cheer him up by sending him silly selfies.
When they got to the hospital they still had to wait a while until it was his turn to get examined. He felt anxious while waiting for his name to be called by the doctor. When it was his turn the doctor asked him some questions, took his temperature, and took a look at his throat. The diagnosis was that he was down with the flu. He was advised to take a rest for a week and avoid strenuous activities. It came to no surprise to Wonwoo, but it was still a blow to him. He felt frustrated to the point that he wanted to cry. He really had looked forward to this performance. It had been so long since he saw Carats in person and even longer since they had performed with all 13 members. Now he would be the reason that there was a member missing. Wonwoo asked the doctor again if there was no chance at all that he was going to be able to perform, but the doctor strongly advised him against doing so to avoid complications in the future. Why couldn't he have fallen ill after the performance was over?! At least he also got some good news, his ankle was alright which was a small relief for Wonwoo.
The doctor prescribed him some drugs before wishing him well and telling him to come back if he didn't feel better in the next few days.
Wonwoo was exhausted when he entered their apartment. It had started to rain heavily when they drove home from the hospital. He entered their shared home and took off his jacket and shoes, making sure that the water wouldn’t make a mess on the floor. Otherwise, Mingyu would get annoyed when he got home. He went into their living room, dropping his meds on the table. Somehow the flat felt emptier without Mingyu bustling around in it. He took in the dark, silent flat, he was standing in, absentmindedly scratching his neck. The only noise was the pattering of the rain against the windows. He shivered with cold and went over to the control panel of their heating and turned the temperature up to 28°. He knew Mingyu would complain when he got home that it was too hot, but he liked it that way and he was sick after all.
Wonwoo walked into his room to get out of the damp clothes, changing into a dry set of jogging pants and a hoodie. When he was dressed he took the prescribed meds and let himself sink into the couch. He checked the messages in the group chat regarding their schedules and some messages of the members asking him how the trip to the hospital went and how he was feeling. He bit on his lip anxiously while replying to the members, telling them what the doctor had said. He waited a few seconds if any of the members would text back but they seemed to be busy since no messages came. Wonwoo sighed. He felt restless, so he decided to get his book and read for a bit as long as his eyes would let him without starting to burn. He went back into his room to get his book to read on the couch since his room seemed too cold. On any normal day, he would love the privacy of his room, but somehow it felt too empty today. He really missed Gyu. On his way back to the couch he stopped in front of Mingyu’s room since the door was open. His room was always so neat and tidy in contrast to his own room which was cluttered with things. It wasn't like his room was messy, they just had different views of what a tidy, comfy room should look like.
Without thinking he went into Mingyu’s room and sat down on his bed. The book in his hand was forgotten. He didn't know how long he just sat on the bed watching the rain through the window. It was nearly dark outside because of the rain even though it wasn't that late. After some time he lay down on the other’s bed, crawling under his covers. Mingyu would probably be pissed that he was on his bed, but his bed was nice. It smelled like Mingyu. His heart twisted painfully at the thought when it hit him, it really was bittersweet: How did love become love?
Wonwoo sighed. There was no denying anymore that he liked Mingyu more than a friend and member of his group, even more than family. The members were his family, but Mingyu was his home, he made him whole and they contemplated each other. Gyu looked out for him and took care of him, always making sure that he was happy and balanced. Wonwoo knew he was emotionally constipated and sometimes didn't show enough how much he cared. But how could he tell him without making things awkward between them?
His thoughts were interrupted when his phone vibrated. Speaking of the devil, it was a text from Mingyu.
How are you holding up?
Wonwoo typed back: Kinda bummed, but I'm resting. How is the shoot going?
Cheer up! The shoot is fun, Carats will love it. Gotta go, see u later.
Wonwoo put his phone down and groaned. He was so screwed. He reached for his book and flipped to the page he stopped reading. Maybe the book would distract him from everything. After a while Wonwoo became tired, he just wanted to rest his eyes for a bit, but instead fell asleep surrounded by Mingyu’s scent.
Wonwoo was startled awake when the mattress dipped down beside him.
“Sorry, I didn't want to wake you. I just wanted to make sure you are okay,” Mingyu whispered intimately, cupping the side of his face with one hand, drawing soft patterns on his face with his thumb. “I was worried when I didn't find you in the living room or your bed. I'm glad you are here instead.”
Wonwoo unconsciously leaned into Mingyu’s touch. “Sorry for sleeping in your bed,” he yawned. He felt a little bit better after sleeping but was still aching overall. He was happy that the other was home, which meant he had been asleep for quite some time.
“Why did you sleep in my bed?” Gyu asked curiously. Wonwoo flushed at the question. There was no good explanation. How did you say, because I missed you and felt lonely without you without sounding pathetic? Yeah, there was no smooth answer to that. Wonwoo cleared his throat, wanting to hide his face, but there was nowhere to hide in his current position.
“Don't feel embarrassed. Just say it. Did you miss me?” Wonwoo’s eyes widened at Gyu’s words. Did he know all along?
Wonwoo avoided Mingyu’s gaze and licked his lips, before nodding hesitantly, face still burning with embarrassment. The other’s smile widened, yet he looked at him with the fondest expression possible. Was he dreaming?
“I missed you, too. I didn't like the thought that you are alone when you are not feeling well,” Mingyu admitted, leaning so close over his face that he could feel his breath on his skin. A heartbeat later Mingyu pressed a soft long kiss on his forehead. Wonwoo closed his eyes at the sensation of the other’s lip on his skin. He wished one day he would kiss him for real, not on his forehead or cheek, but on his lips. He heard Mingyu sigh, then the other nudged his nose softly against his, before he leaned back, eyes still soft. Mingyu spaced out for a second, being in deep thoughts, before pointing to his shadowed eyes.
“How do you like the gold glitter eye shadow? Isn’t it pretty?” Gyu asked suddenly. What was with the sudden topic change? Wonwoo put on his glasses which he had put down, before falling asleep.
Wonwoo let his eyes slowly wander over the other’s face. The gold really suited him with his black hair and melanin skin. His breath hitched and masked it with a cough. Now that he has noticed the gold shimmer around Mingyu’s eyes, he was unable to keep his eyes off, blandly staring at his friend. He looked really hot with it.
“Uhh… you are right. Carats are going to love this shoot,” Wonwoo said slightly speechless.
“I didn't ask about Carats, I know that they are going to love it,” Mingyu whined. “But what about you?”
“I really, really like it, too?” he teased instead of giving an honest answer. Mingyu’s face fell slightly, looking uncertain all of a sudden, and stood up abruptly. He quickly caught him by the arm and pulled him back down to him.
“Don’t sulk. I mean it. It really suits you,” Wonwoo licked his lips nervously. “You look hot, mysterious. All dark, tall and handsome,” He looked shamefully at the ground. He wasn't the best at giving compliments, he knew that, not like Mingyu was able to and like the other would deserve to be complimented. But Mingyu lit up and beamed at him at his words, standing up again.
“Uhm, thanks, I guess,” the other replied shy, rubbing his neck sheepishly.
“Why are you pretending to be shy now?“ Wonwoo asked amused, crossing his arms in front of his chest on the covers. “You asked, I answered. It’s old news.” Mingyu stammered something, which sounded like It’s different when it’s coming from you, but Wonwoo wasn't sure, because it didn't make any sense.
“Let me change real quick. My clothes got damp on the way here,” Mingyu told him, looking around his room for some clothes to wear, but didn't seem to find what he was looking for so he went to his closet, to search for his clothes there.
“I couldn't focus today and broke one of the props in the process and do you know who’s fault this is?” the other said while pulling some clothes out of his closet.
“I told you not to break anything, but pray tell, who was it that made the clumsy puppy lose focus?” Wonwoo deadpanned, watching Mingyu organize his clothes and start changing in front of him. It wasn't something out of the ordinary, they have seen themselves change countless times, it was nothing to get embarrassed about. Still, Wonwoo always was stunned. Mingyu’s body was something else, his chiseled chest and abs were no joke, the sight flustered him. No, he wasn't going there. Wonwoo picked up his phone to busy himself, waiting for the other to continue speaking.
“You know I have someone special at home, some say he’s like a human cat. He loves to nap, he loves to read, he loves the heat,” Mingyu started. “He’s the most beautiful person I have seen in my life, but he’s also driving me crazy. I can’t think about something else, especially when he is mad at me or feels bad, so I wanted to get home as quickly as possible to make sure he’s doing fine.”
Mingyu stopped and made a dramatic pause while pulling his shirt over.
“So in my haste I got even more clumsy and broke the prob, which was thankfully not that important so I still could go home on time. Just to find him napping in my bed which is not very like him. I was so surprised that I didn't know what to do,” Mingyu finished awkwardly. Please he was so ridiculous. Wonwoo didn't know if he should feel touched or slap him, because this was a whole new level of nonsense even coming from Mingyu.
Wonwoo snorted, “You are really something else, why do I even love you.” He felt giddy because of all the butterflies in his stomach. What was up with Gyu? He didn't know what changed in the last few days, but his feelings for his group member grew so much stronger even though it wasn't the first time he took care of him. Mingyu made his way over to the bed lying down next to him.
“What?” Mingyu asked, looking at him confused, but at the same time pulling him close. Mingyu propped his head on his arm, looking down at him with a strange look on his face. Wonwoo looked up at him fondly which seemed to confuse him even more. Wonwoo smiled and cupped Mingyu’s face with one hand, caressing his cheek before lettings his hand trail to his collar and pulling him in at his collar in a swift motion to press a lingering kiss on his lips as he had imagined so many times. Whoops. Was it a bad idea for more than one reason? Yes, for one he was still sick, but he was tired of fighting his feelings. He felt like he would combust if he didn't say something, he trusted Mingyu to understand his feelings even when they are one-sided without getting mad. But he needed him to know.
“You heard me,” Wonwoo whispered lovingly, “I love you, you clumsy puppy.” Mingyu looked at him with wide eyes, obviously surprised but far from appalled. Happy tears welling up in his eyes without spilling, looking at him ever so tenderly.
“I love you, too,” Mingyu said earnestly, smiling softly, “always have, always will.”
He closed the distance between them for a second time, kissing Wonwoo lightly on the lips. Wonwoo put his hand on the nape of his neck, caressing him softly. “You better get better real quick so that I can kiss you properly,” Mingyu breathed.
Wonwoo fondled his hair “I will,” he replied. Mingyu moved, embracing him in a warm hug, burying his face into his neck.
“I will hold you up to that,” Wonwoo swallowed almost overwhelmed by his feelings and what was happening, wrapping his arms around Mingyu holding him close. He would never have imagined to say it first in the end.
“Promise.”
Sometimes a few simple words could change the entire world of one person for the better or the worse. They may not always be world changing or even surprising, sometimes they had always been there in the open, yet unspoken, intention clear but not understood. When spoken aloud words hold an entirely different power, sometimes they destroy, sometimes they create, sometimes they hold simply one of the most powerful human emotions: the power of love.