Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

You think the devil has horns
Well so did I
But I was wrong his hair is combed
And he wears a suit and tie

He's nice,polite
He'll catch you by surprise
A smile so bright
Youd never bat an eye

Said he was in a hurry
That's when he met him sunday
Walking down the street
He dropped his bag

And it felt to his knee
He got down on one knee
He handed him the purse
And gave a warning to him

Saying "you know,
The devil has horns he's out tonight
Walking round downtown
Carrying a gun and knife

He'll fight,you'll die
But you'll see him clear his light
An evil sight,you should know the warning signs

----

I should have known.
I should have seen it from the very beginning.
The way his smile curved too easily,
the way his eyes lingered too long,
the way his presence felt like sunlight in the dark.

I should have known when his hand brushed mine and set fire to my veins.
When his laugh carved warmth into the cold nights at the precinct.
When every word he spoke sounded like the truth,
even when the truth was nowhere to be found.

I should have questioned it—
the way the clues bent to his will,
the way the answers came too clean,
the way his arms wrapped around me as if they belonged there.

But I didn’t.
I was drowning in grief, and he was the only one who held me up.
I was breaking apart, and he pieced me back together.
I was empty, and he filled the silence with a love I had been starving for.

So I let myself fall.
Deeper and deeper, into the warmth of him.
Into the safety of him.
Into the lie of him.

Because I loved him.
God, I loved him more than I should have.
And he—he loved me too.
But his love was not gentle.
His love was not safe.
His love was a blade dressed in velvet,
a cage built from kisses,
a storm disguised as shelter.

He told me I was his everything.
And I believed him.
I believed him even as the world around me burned.
Even as the people I loved vanished one by one.
Even as his shadow stretched over every corner of my life.

Now the truth screams through the silence.
Every smile was a mask.
Every embrace was a chain.
Every whispered promise was a curse.

I should have known.
I should have seen it.
I should have stopped before it consumed me whole.

Because the man I trusted with my life,
the man I gave my heart to,
the man I loved more than anything—

was the devil in disguise.

----

Felix sat at his desk, coffee in one hand, pen in the other. He sipped slowly, eyes burning as he flipped through the files spread before him. Finally, with a sigh, he tossed the pen down and leaned back in his chair, exhausted.

“This makes no sense,” he whispered, dragging his fingers through his hair.

And it didn’t. He’d been working the case for hours, but there was nothing—no background, no family, no hospital records. Just a name, an age, and a single photograph.

Five days ago, a fifteen-year-old girl had been murdered. She’d been living in an apartment with her best friend. She claimed her parents were dead, and the best friend… a runaway from abusive, now-deceased parents.

To anyone else, the answer would’ve been obvious the best friend should be the prime suspect.

But her body had been found too, burned beyond recognition.

Sensibly, people would just say it was hers. Case closed.

But Felix couldn’t accept that

How can they know it was her best friend?

And wasn’t it strange that the killer burned only one body and left the girl’s untouched?

He rubbed at his tired eyes, exhaling another weary sigh. Reaching for his phone, he checked the time

12:45 a.m

And then he remembered it was Sunday.

No wonder the precinct had been so quiet all night. Everyone else had gone home to their families, their lives. But not him. He was the only one stubborn enough to drag himself in, chasing answers that refused to be found.

The building was silent when he packed his bag
Empty
Lonely

He walked downstairs, punched in the code at the door, and approached the elevator.

The doors were just about to close when he noticed someone already inside. “Wait-please hold it!” Felix called out, quickening his steps.

The stranger inside pressed the button without hesitation, keeping the doors open. Felix rushed in, juggling his bag—only for it to slip from his shoulder and tumble to the floor. Files scattered everywhere.

“Damn it,” Felix muttered, crouching down, but the stranger was already kneeling beside him.

“Here, let me,” the man said smoothly, gathering papers with quick precision. When he handed them back, Felix’s gaze finally lifted.

And froze.

Oh. Wow.

The man was… handsome. Striking. His dark hair, grown out just enough to fall neatly over his forehead, framed his sharp jaw. His eyes were deep and dark, the kind that pulled you in, soft yet unreadable. And when he smiled—Felix swore his heart might have stopped.

“Thank you,” Felix murmured, still caught off guard.

“No problem.” The stranger straightened, brushing imaginary dust from his coat. “You work here?”

“Oh. Yeah. Detective.” Felix gave a small nod, adjusting the strap of his bag.

“Really? Same. Hwang Hyunjin, by the way.” He extended a hand, steady and confident.

Felix blinked, startled, before shaking it. “Oh my—I’ve heard so much about you. It’s so nice to finally meet you!” His surprise melted into a bright smile. “You’re really popular around here.”

“Not really.” Hyunjin shrugged with a laugh.

“Not really? Please. Your father was one of the best lawyers. I was practically a fan. And you? You’re incredible. One of the sharpest detectives I've heard of"

“You flatter me.” Hyunjin’s smile widened, but his eyes glimmered with something unreadable.

Felix was about to say more when the elevator dinged. The doors slid open.

“Looks like it’s time to go,” Felix said softly, lips curling into a small smile. “Have a good night.”

“You too, Felix. Stay safe.”

Felix smiled again, turning away with a flutter in his chest. He felt like a schoolboy meeting his crush for the first time. Something told him he’d be seeing Hyunjin again.

He just didn’t realize he’d never told Hyunjin his name.

----

Felix’s apartment was quiet and orderly, just the way he liked it. He turned on the light and was greeted by the familiar sight of neatly arranged furniture. Slowly, he sank onto the couch, clutching the files to his chest for a moment before setting them carefully on the coffee table. He sighed, a small smile tugging at his lips, before sprawling out and letting the exhaustion sink in.

Hyunjin lingered in his thoughts. Perfect—his height, sharp jaw, deep eyes, lips, even the subtle curve of his eyebrows. Everything about him seemed impossibly precise, like he’d been designed to unsettle and captivate at the same time.

Finally, Felix got up, letting his jacket rest on the table. He filled a glass of water and wandered down the hallway toward his bedroom. He collapsed onto the bed, still in his white shirt and black pants. Too tired to care, he let darkness swallow him, exhaustion dragging him under.

---

The alarm rang. Again. And again. Felix groaned, rubbing his eyes. **10:45 a.m.**

FREAK.

“FREAKING HELL!” he shouted, scrambling toward the bathroom. His precise routine—waking at six every day for years—was shattered. Hair half-dried, shirt half-buttoned, tie crooked, he threw on his jacket, grabbed his phone, and rushed out.

---

He arrived at the building just five minutes before the meeting. Bags heavy, nerves taut.

“There you are,” Seungmin said, arms crossed.

“Yeah… yeah, I’m here,” Felix muttered, sliding into a chair.

“Oh, looks like the meeting’s started—let’s go,” Chan said, moving toward the screen. Felix’s stomach churned at the sight of a new victim: a boy, lifeless, mangled. He closed his eyes for a second, then forced himself to focus.

“As we know, there’s a serial killer active in Twin. Thirty-five bodies recovered, seven missing. Patterns are emerging—victims are all males, late teens to early twenties, similar lifestyle indicators…” Chan explained.

Felix leaned forward, scanning the photo and mentally mapping connections. The position of the body suggested the killer wasn’t in a hurry—careful, meticulous. The location: low-traffic street, near an alley. Witness statements? Sparse. He noted every anomaly: inconsistencies in times, discrepancies in witness accounts, possible misdirection in victim selection.

*If the killer is methodical, the next target will be someone in the same social circle…* Felix thought, running through a mental map of Twin’s neighborhoods and residents. *Timing seems random, but there’s a pattern in vulnerability. Someone with no strong support network, easy to isolate.*

And then he froze. Hyunjin. Sitting a few rows ahead, focused, professional. Felix’s pulse jumped. How had he not noticed him before? And yet… something about the way Hyunjin scanned the screen, subtly analyzing, gave him away. He was thinking—like Felix was thinking—but sharper.

Hyunjin looked up, caught Felix’s gaze, and smiled. And Felix felt his heart stumble.

“Mrs. Lee? Are you okay?” Chan’s voice snapped him back.

“Oh… yes, sorry,” Felix said, standing quickly, adjusting papers.

---

After the meeting, colleagues whispered about the case’s brutality.

“I’m going to grab coffee. Want some?” Jisung asked.

“Uh… yeah, sure,” Felix murmured, still lost in thought. He was replaying every detail from the photos, cross-referencing dates, times, and locations but then suddenly drifted back to hyunjin

Seungmin noticed. “You okay? You’ve been zoning out all morning.”

“Nothing… just thinking,” Felix said, small smile.

"Mr lee" Hyunjin was beside him, calm, smiling. Felix froze. Every glance, every smile—he couldn’t breathe properly.

“I wanted to discuss the case,” Hyunjin said, eyes soft yet sharp.

“Oh, yes… of course. Shall we do it here or—” Felix began, then remembered his files.

“My office will be fine,” Hyunjin suggested.

“Y-yeah… sure,” Felix stammered, gathering his papers.

Hyunjin held the door open. “After you,” he said, and Felix stepped in, sitting in the black leather chair, trying not to stare too blatantly.

---

“I’ve gone through the reports for the last five cases,” Hyunjin began, opening a file. “Victim profiles, locations, timing, witness statements… I’ve mapped them against potential escape routes and camera blind spots.”

Felix leaned in, heart hammering. “I noticed the killer seems to avoid main streets, using alleys and backdoors. And the victims’ social connections… they don’t overlap much, except a few isolated incidents at the same community center.”

Hyunjin nodded, impressed. “Exactly. I think they’re calculating psychological vulnerability, not just opportunity.”

Felix felt a spark—working with him was… thrilling. Dangerous, but thrilling. “We could cross-reference the hospital records with those social groups. Check for anyone with recent psychiatric visits or known trauma histories.”

“Agreed. And I’ve started noting anomalies in witness statements. Some are inconsistent in timing like they’re hiding something. Or maybe the killer is feeding misinformation.” Hyunjin’s eyes met Felix’s. “We’ll need to interview each witness ourselves.”

Felix’s chest tightened at the proximity, at the way Hyunjin leaned slightly closer. “I… I can start drafting the interrogation schedules.”

Hyunjin smiled. “Perfect. I think this much is enough for today. Tomorrow we continue.”

“Of course,” Felix said, small smile tugging at his lips.

Hyunjin leaned back slightly, gaze softening. “Why don’t you give me your number? It’ll make communication easier.”

“Oh… sure,” Felix said, heart racing as he shared it.

“Have a good day, Felix,” Hyunjin said, watching him leave.

Felix walked out, mind spinning, chest pounding. Detective instincts buzzing, files running through his head and yet, every thought circled back to Hyunjin. He didn’t know how or why, but he already knew he’d be seeing him again.

Chapter Text

It had been a while since Felix had friends over, but tonight they insisted. So here he was apron tied, spices lined up, stirring a pot while the others sprawled in his living room.

“How long is this going to take? I’m starving,” Jisung groaned, throwing his head back dramatically.

“We could’ve just ordered takeout,” I.N muttered, cheek resting in his palm.

Felix didn’t even look up. “Absolutely not. Outside food is unhealthy—and you guys eat enough of that junk.” He tasted the broth, adjusted the seasoning, and nodded with satisfaction.

“Okay, mom,” Seungmin said, rolling his eyes before getting up. “I’m making myself a snack.”

He grabbed bread and a jar of mayo.

“EWW!” Jisung gagged. “That’s a crime against humanity.”

“What?” Seungmin said, spreading the mayo anyway.

“Plain bread and mayonnaise? No. Just no. At least add cheese or ham or something

“I’m too lazy. And it tastes good this way.”

“No, it doesn’t,” Jisung muttered. “Ugh. Blekh. I’d rather eat bread with ketchup.”

“EW,” Seungmin and Felix said at the same time.

“See? Even Lix agrees with me.” seungmin  pointed at Felix, who just shook his head.

“Enough. Dinner’s ready.” Felix began filling bowls with chili.

---

“This is so good, Lix!” Jisung exclaimed, over-the-top dramatic as usual.

“Really? I tried a new recipe,” Felix said, cheeks flushing with quiet pride.

“I’m already full,” I.N said, leaning back with a smirk after polishing off his bowl faster than anyone.

Seungmin stared at him, dumbfounded. “How the hell did you eat that so fast?”

I.N only smirked harder.

“Anyway,” Jisung piped up, “how are you guys doing on the case?”

“Ugh, can we not talk about work while eating?” Seungmin groaned.

“No one cares,” I.N said flatly, sitting up straighter.

“You’re literally partnered with Minho,” Seungmin shot back.

“Well, duh. We’re basically husbands. Best team ever,” Jisung said proudly.

“Yeah, the last time you were paired up you got caught kissing in the—”

“Shut. Up.” Jisung snapped, glaring.

I.N smirked. “Speaking of partners, have you guys met that Hyunjin guy Felix got paired with?”

“Oh hell yeah,” Seungmin said. “Dude looks like he walked out of a magazine.”

“Right? Are we sure he’s not secretly a model?” Jisung added.

“What’s he like, Lix? Funny? Cold? Nice?”

Felix hesitated, then smiled softly. “He’s… nice. Really nice. Almost like—an angel.”

Jisung gasped. “I heard he does charity, too"

"Really what a sweet guy-"

Seungmin yawned and stood. “Alright, I’m heading home. Work tomorrow.”

“Work? More like a date with Chan,” Jisung teased, earning a glare.

“I’ll go too-I don’t have a ride,” I.N said, hopping up to follow.

“Thanks for the food, Lixie. Love you!” Jisung said, hugging him before skipping out.

Felix chuckled to himself as the apartment finally quieted. He gathered the dishes, washed them quickly, and then flopped into bed, phone in hand.

A notification lit up the screen.

Hyunjin
Hello.
9:20 p.m.

Felix’s heart lurched

Hyunjin
I hope I’m not disturbing you?
9:20 p.m.

He scrambled to reply, fingers trembling.

Me
Oh no, I was just scrolling.
9:20 p.m.

The dots appeared. Disappeared. Appeared again. Felix held his breath.

Hyunjin
Oh thank god. I thought you might be asleep.
9:21 p.m.

Hyunjin
I wanted to ask… would you like to meet tomorrow? There’s a café near the station. We can discuss the case. 5 p.m.?
9:21 p.m.

**Hyunjin**
Only if you’re free, of course.
9:22 p.m.

Felix stared at the screen, pulse racing. Before his brain caught up, his fingers typed on their own.

Me
Is that your way of asking me on a date?
9:22 p.m.

Send.
Oh no. His stomach flipped. Why did I do that?!

The dots appeared instantly. His breath caught.

Hyunjin
Do you want it to be?
9:22 p.m.

Felix’s face burned. His anxiety melted into something else entirely. Something dangerous, fluttery, sweet.

Me
Maybe.
9:23 p.m.

Hyunjin
Then it’s a date. 5 p.m. I’ll send you the location
9:23 pm

Felix set his phone down, pressing it to his chest, and let out a shaky laugh.

“God… how can someone be so perfect?” he whispered, grinning to himself until sleep finally tugged him under.

----

Felix let out a small sigh of relief as the clock finally ticked past the end of his shift. The stack of reports on his desk had been handled, and his notes were neat enough that Seungmin wouldn’t nag him later. He quickly shoved his files into his bag, glanced at his phone, and smiled.

4:35 p.m.
Plenty of time.

His legs carried him faster than usual down the sidewalk, the late afternoon sun draping the city in warm gold. His chest buzzed with nerves, but it wasn’t the usual anxiety from work—it was anticipation. Excitement.

When he reached the café, he hesitated for just a second outside the glass doors. Through the window, he spotted Hyunjin already there, seated at a corner table. His long hair was tucked behind his ear, sunlight catching on his features like he belonged on a canvas. He was scrolling through his phone, the other hand wrapped around a coffee cup.

Felix took a deep breath, pushed the door open, and walked in.

Hyunjin looked up instantly. And smiled. “You’re early.”

Felix rubbed the back of his neck, sheepish. “Didn’t want to keep you waiting.”

“sweet” Hyunjin teased lightly, standing just enough to pull the chair out for him. “Sit, I already ordered us drinks.”

Felix blinked, then sat down, heart stuttering. “You… didn’t have to.”

“I wanted to" Hyunjin said simply, leaning back with an ease Felix envied. Then, almost seamlessly, his expression shifted into something more focused. “So, the case"

Felix nodded quickly, pulling his files from his bag, grateful for the distraction. “Right. I’ve been looking into the timeline of the victims. Most were reported missing between eight p.m. and midnight. Always in crowded areas but disappearing without anyone noticing. Thats unusual”

“Which means the killer is careful. Patient,” Hyunjin said, tapping the side of his cup. “And bold. To take people in public spaces, they’d need charm—or some way of lowering their guard.” His eyes flickered up at Felix as he spoke, dark and sharp.

Felix swallowed, trying not to read too much into the glance. “Exactly. And-uh there were faint traces of chloroform on two of the recovered victims. Could mean chemical use in some cases.”

“Mm. Smart.” Hyunjin tilted his head, studying Felix. “You’re thorough.”

Felix’s ears turned pink. He ducked his head into the files. “Just… doing my job.”

Hyunjin smirked faintly, but he didn’t push. Instead, he leaned closer across the table, his voice lowering. “So… if the killer uses charm to lure victims…” He paused deliberately. “Think I could do it?”

Felix’s head shot up, startle " wh-what?”

Hyunjin chuckled softly at his reaction, eyes glittering. “Relax. I mean hypothetically. Do I look like someone people would follow without hesitation?”

Felix blinked, lips parting. His brain screamed yes but his mouth refused to cooperate. He quickly turned back to the file, mumbling, “I… guess so.”

“That was a terrible lie,” Hyunjin said, amused. “Your ears give you away.”

Felix slapped a hand to his ear instantly, mortified, which only made Hyunjin laugh harder.

“Anyway,” Hyunjin said, mercifully shifting back to business, “I think we need to cross-check the missing persons’ last-known contacts. If it’s charm, maybe the victims mentioned meeting someone new before disappearing.”

Felix nodded quickly, trying to refocus, scribbling notes. But Hyunjin’s words lingered in his head.

Do I look like someone people would follow without hesitation?

The answer was obvious.
And Felix was afraid he already had.

The server arrived with two cups, setting them down neatly. Felix blinked in surprise when he saw his drink—perfectly made, just the way he liked it.

"You know my order?" Felix asked

Hyunjin stirred his own coffee lazily, lips curving. “Really?that was a wild guess,you really look like someone who enjoys sweet things”

Felix’s chest warmed, and he quickly took a sip to hide his smile. The steam fogged his glasses a little, which only made Hyunjin lean forward, tilting his head. “Careful, it’s hot.”

“I—I know,” Felix muttered, fiddling with his spoon. But the way Hyunjin said it, gentle and low, sent his pulse racing.

They shifted back into the case, Felix opening a folder with crime scene photos. “I marked the common streets—if you notice, three of the victims vanished near the same subway exit. Security cameras don’t catch anything suspicious, but…” He trailed off, biting his lip. “I think someone knew the blind spots.”

Hyunjin leaned closer, his shoulder brushing Felix’s as he peered at the map. “You’re right. Look at this alley if someone walked through here, they’d disappear off footage for almost five minutes.” His finger tapped the page lightly, and Felix swore his skin buzzed just from the proximity.

“You’re really sharp,” Felix murmured without thinking.

Hyunjin glanced sideways, catching his gaze. “I’ve been told.” His smirk softened into something warmer. “But you’re sharper.”

Felix’s throat tightened. “I-I don’t know about that.”

“I do,” Hyunjin said simply, leaning back at last. He folded his arms, watching Felix like he was studying him instead of the files. “You don’t give yourself enough credit. You see things others miss. That’s… rare.”

Felix’s stomach fluttered at the sincerity in his tone. He forced himself to laugh it off, though it came out shaky. “You’re… very confident, you know.”

“Confidence makes people trust you,” Hyunjin replied, eyes crinkling. “It works in interrogation rooms.” Then, softer, “And outside them too.”

Felix nearly choked on his coffee. “Are you-”

“Flirting?” Hyunjin arched a brow, playful. “Maybe is it working?”

Felix buried his face in the file. “Focus on the case.”

Hyunjin chuckled, but he didn’t push further. Instead, he closed the folder gently and stood. “Alright, Detective Lee. You’ve worked hard enough for today.”

Felix blinked up at him. “But we barely-”

“Tomorrow,” Hyunjin interrupted smoothly, holding out his hand to help him up. “You look exhausted.”

Felix hesitated, then slipped his hand into Hyunjin’s. The warmth, the easy strength, sent a rush of heat up his arms. Hyunjin pulled him up effortlessly, steadying him even though Felix didn’t stumble.

"I'll text you next time" hyunjin smiled

As they stepped out of the café together, Felix realized his heart hadn’t slowed once since he walked in.

-

Chapter Text

Felix stood beside Hyunjin, the harsh glow of the projector flickering across their faces

The board was plastered with photos victims, crime scene snapshots, maps with red pins scattered across the city like drops of blood. Felix tapped the most recent photo with the end of his pen.

“See this one?” His voice was low, focused. “She was found in an alleyway behind a bookstore. No sign of forced entry at her apartment. She must’ve been lured out.” He bit at his nails, his nerves bleeding into the room.

Hyunjin studied the image, eyes narrowing. “Background check?”

“I asked a friend to run it.” Felix reached for a file, flipping it open. “Her name was Hannah Kim nineteen she used to live with her best friend, Sarah, until she moved in with her boyfriend. No criminal record. No reports of abuse. Pretty clean.”

Hyunjin tilted his head thoughtfully. “Boyfriend?”

“Traveling abroad at the time. Confirmed by immigration records,” Felix replied, though there was a faint uncertainty in his voice.

Hyunjin’s lips pressed together, a habit Felix had already noticed meant he was thinking deeply. “Then Sarah might know something. If the pattern holds people close to the victims may be at risk.”

Felix nodded quickly. “So we go to Sarah.”

Hyunjin glanced sideways at him, then smiled. “Exactly We’ll pay her a visit today”

And just like that, the tension in the room eased. Felix found himself smiling back without even realizing it.

---

A few hours later, Felix sat quietly in Hyunjin’s car, watching the blur of city lights streak past the window

His blonde hair fell neatly across his face, illuminated by passing headlights. Hyunjin’s hands rested casually on the wheel, but every so often, his gaze flicked toward Felix soft, unreadable.

Then, suddenly, Hyunjin pulled the car over.

Felix blinked, startled. “Why are we stopping?”

Hyunjin unbuckled his seatbelt, smiling as he reached for the door. “Because I’m not letting my partner starve to death. Or fall asleep on me. I’ll grab us something to drink.”

Felix’s brows furrowed. “You really don’t have to-”

“But I want to,” Hyunjin interrupted gently, flashing a grin before stepping out.

Felix sat there, heart fluttering, his lips quirking into a helpless smile.

Minutes later, Hyunjin returned with two drinks in hand a black coffee for himself and a pale pink smoothie for Felix. He slid into his seat, buckling up before handing it over. “Here its Strawberry figured you’d like something sweet.”

Felix blinked, then took a tentative sip. His eyes widened. “Oh,Oh wow. This is so good.” He quickly took another, and another.

Hyunjin chuckled, sipping his own coffee. “You like strawberries?”

“Like them? I love them,” Felix said, his voice softer now, almost sheepish. “They’re sweet and familiar I guess.”

Hyunjin glanced sideways, a smile tugging at his lips. “Fitting.”

Felix blinked at him. “Fitting?”

“You look like one.”

Felix choked a little, coughing. “Wh-what? No I dont-”

“You do,” Hyunjin said smoothly, eyes still on the road. “Especially when you blush. You go red, just like one.” He tilted his head ever so slightly toward Felix catching the exact moment his partner’s cheeks flamed.

Felix ducked his head, muttering, “You’re imagining things” but his heart was slamming so hard against his ribs, he was sure Hyunjin could hear it.

Hyunjin smirked into his coffee, sipping casually as though he hadn’t just set Felix’s entire world spinning "You look like one right now, too"

And this time, he didn’t even try to hide the amusement in his voice.

It had been hours since they’d started driving

The night stretched long, the hum of the tires against the road almost hypnotic

Felix had fallen asleep somewhere between towns, his head tipped against the window, arms folded loosely in his lap. His blonde hair spilled softly across his face, his chest rising and falling with gentle rhythm.

Hyunjin glanced sideways, his hands steady on the wheel. Beautiful,he thought with a small smile

Too beautiful.

He slowed as they reached a parking lot, the shift of motion stirring Felix awake. Felix’s eyes fluttered open, glassy with sleep. He stretched his arms above his head, rubbing at his face like a child.

“Are we there already?” His voice was husky, still caught in dreams.

Hyunjin smiled. “Not yet. It’s late. We’ll find a hotel and start fresh tomorrow, yeah?”

Felix blinked at the dark sky outside, disoriented. “What time is it?”

“Almost eleven.”

Felix frowned faintly. “At this hour? Will we even find a place open?”

Hyunjin’s voice softened, steady. “Hey. Don’t worry. I’ll handle it” His smile was easy, reassuring. And somehow, Felix did feel reassured

"I won't let you sleep in the car strawberry" hyunjin winked
---

It took some searching, but eventually, they stumbled across a small but clean hotel. Hyunjin approached the counter, leaning lightly against it.

“Room for two, please.” His polite smile made the receptionist blush slightly before she looked at her screen.

“I’m sorry,” she said. “We only have one room left and it’s a single bed. Will that be alright?”

Felix froze mid-step

One bed?
With Hyunjin?

His thoughts immediately tangled awkwardness, nerves, a faint spark of excitement he couldn’t push away.

Before he could answer, Hyunjin nodded without hesitation. “That’s fine.” Then, as though remembering, he turned back to Felix. “Only if you’re comfortable with it.” His eyes searched Felix’s, giving him the choice.

Felix swallowed hard. “Yes..of course” a smile tugged nervously at his lips.

----

The room was neat, warmly lit, and faintly perfumed with flowers. Felix collapsed onto the bed with a sigh, tugging off his jacket. “God, I’m so tired.”

Hyunjin’s laugh was soft, almost fond. “You should shower before you knock out.”

“Too lazy…” Felix mumbled into the pillow, his words muffled.

“Then I’ll go first,” Hyunjin teased, grabbing a change of clothes and disappearing into the bathroom.

Felix must have dozed again because when the bathroom door creaked open, he blinked awake only to wish he hadn’t.

Hyunjin stepped out with damp hair tied loosely into a bun, water still clinging to his skin. His shirt was slung over one shoulder, leaving his toned torso exposed Only his boxers clung to him, low on his hips.

Felix’s breath hitched. His eyes widened before he could force them away.

Hyunjin caught the look, pausing mid-step. His brows rose before a smirk curled on his lips. “I thought you were asleep.”

Felix’s face burned. He whipped the blanket over his head. “I-I wasn’t looking!” His voice cracked with panic

A laugh, low and warm, filled the room
“Felix” Hyunjin’s voice softened, teasing but gentle. “If you’re going to stare, at least don’t hide after.”

Felix peeked out from under the blanket, his cheeks crimson. “I wasn’t staring!”

“Mm,” Hyunjin hummed, slipping into his pants with an infuriating ease. “You blush too easily for a detective, you know that?”

Felix’s stomach flipped, and he buried himself back into the blanket. “Shut up.”

Hyunjin chuckled again, shaking his head as he tugged on his shirt. “Cute” he muttered under his breath, though just loud enough for Felix to hear.

And Felix’s heart raced so hard, he swore it might betray him.

----

Felix’s morning began with the quiet hum of life beside him. Hyunjin sat at the edge of the bed, damp hair falling against his forehead, a cup of coffee in one hand and a book balanced in the other. He looked calm composed—the kind of presence that made the world feel a little safer just by existing.

Felix blinked slowly, caught staring before he even realized it. How does he look this put together already?

“Oh you’re awake.”

Felix startled when Hyunjin spoke, his lips curving into a soft smile.

“Mmhm" Felix hummed, sitting up, rubbing his eyes, stretching his arms
above his head.

“Do you want something to eat?” Hyunjin asked, gently setting the book aside. “Room service might still be available.”

Felix shook his head. “Not too hungry…”

Hyunjin tilted his head, the corners of his mouth lifting not teasing, but kind
"How careless of you strawberry" hyunjin said fake mock in his voice "Skipping meals is not ok and I can't let you go weak on me we have a long day to get through so how does French toast sound?"

There was no room to argue not when he said it like that. Felix gave a small smile. “good.”

---

A little later, they were back in Hyunjin’s car. Felix held a half-finished strawberry smoothie in his lap, courtesy of Hyunjin’s insistence he take it “for the road.”

“Don’t forget to finish it,” Hyunjin said calmly as he steered them onto the highway.

Felix let out a quiet laugh, raising the cup for another sip. “You don’t let me off the hook, do you?”

“Not when it comes to your health.” Hyunjin’s eyes flicked toward him for a brief second before returning to the road. “Detectives have to take care of themselves, too. You can’t pour from an empty cup now can you strawberry?"

Felix looked down at the smoothie, warmth spreading through his chest that had nothing to do with the drink

“So you gave me a nickname, huh?” Felix chuckled, trying to play it cool even though his ears were burning.

“Of course,” Hyunjin replied easily, one hand steady on the wheel. “I like to name things I love.” He threw in a quick wink before turning his eyes back to the road.

Felix froze.

His heart stopped

The air left his lungs, replaced by a swarm of butterflies battering against his ribs. He swallowed hard, sneaking a glance at Hyunjin, who sat there calm, collected, as if he hadn’t just dropped a line that made Felix’s entire world tilt.

Hyunjin didn’t push, didn’t even glance at him again just let the silence buzz heavy between them until the car slowed.

“We’re here, Strawberry,” Hyunjin said smoothly, flashing Felix a small smile as he opened the door. “Let’s go.”

And Felix, red-faced and dizzy, thought he might actually melt into the seat.

Felix slowly stepped out of the car, the half-finished smoothie clutched in his hand. His cheeks were still burning from Hyunjin’s last words, no matter how hard he tried to will the blush away.

Hyunjin walked beside him, calm and collected as always, his stride unhurried.

“Which one’s the house?” Felix asked, his eyes darting across the narrow street lined with worn fences and uneven stone paths.

“It’s about a five-minute walk from here,” Hyunjin replied. “The streets ahead are too tight for the car.”

Felix hummed, lips forming a small “O” as they fell into step together. But his thoughts wandered

was Hyunjin truly interested in him, or was it just harmless teasing?

Something deep inside him whispered that Hyunjin wasn’t the type to play with hearts. He was too much of a gentleman. Too much of an angel.

The quiet hum of the countryside wrapped around them. Hyunjin tilted his face up, eyes slipping shut as the wind brushed against his skin. “It’s peaceful here,” he murmured. “Almost feels untouched.”

Felix found himself smiling at the sight. “It really is. Reminds me of my hometown back in Australia. I grew up in a place like this small streets, close-knit neighbors, the kind of quiet that feels like safety.”

“Oh?” Hyunjin glanced over, genuine interest lighting his gaze. “I’ve always wanted to go. Chan tells me stories, but I’d rather see it myself.”

“You should,” Felix said softly, his smile warm, unguarded. “I’d show you all my favorite places.”

Their eyes lingered on one another, words suspended in the air like fragile glass, before Hyunjin finally cleared his throat, gaze shifting forward. “We’re here,” he said, his tone calm again, though the corner of his lips still hinted at a smile.

The house was small, paint peeling in mismatched colors. A section of the fence leaned precariously to the side. Felix felt unease creep in as they approached.

Hyunjin raised his hand and knocked, each movement controlled and deliberate.
Elegant
Everything he did seemed elegant.

The door creaked open, revealing a teenage girl with hollow eyes, dark circles etched beneath them. She wore a baggy hoodie and shorts, her hair tied into a low ponytail.

“W-Who are you?” she asked, voice defensive, gaze flicking nervously between them.

“Detectives Hwang and Lee,” Hyunjin said smoothly, offering a polite smile. “We’d like to ask you a few questions about your best friend hannah.”

The girl flinched at the name. “Why? What does that have to do with me?”

“It has everything to do with you,” Felix said, voice steady but gentle. “You were her closest friend-her only family.”

“I-I… you can’t force me into this,” Sarah stammered, her hand tightening on the doorframe. She moved to shut the door, but Hyunjin slipped a hand against it, calm but firm. He held up a paper.

“We have a warrant, Miss Sarah,” he said evenly. “We just want to talk.”

Sarah’s jaw clenched. “…Fine.” She stepped back reluctantly, rolling her eyes.

“Thank you,” Hyunjin replied smoothly, his smile never faltering as he entered the dim house. Felix followed, scanning every detail.

The house was dim, shadows pooling in the corners. Felix glanced around quickly empty ramen cups on the counter, a faint sour smell clinging to the air. The kind of neglect that grows from grief… or guilt.

They sat across from Sarah in the cluttered living room. She curled herself into the farthest corner of the couch, hoodie sleeves covering her fists.

Hyunjin leaned forward, posture open but steady. “Sarah, we know this is difficult. But your testimony could help us understand what happened to Hannah.”

Sarah avoided his gaze. “I told the officers everything already.”

“Then you won’t mind telling us again,” Hyunjin said gently, but there was steel beneath his words. “When was the last time you saw her alive?”

Sarah shifted. “I-I don’t know. A week before? Maybe longer. She was with… with him.”

Felix, notebook in hand, tilted his head. “You mean her boyfriend?”

Sarah’s jaw tightened. “Yeah. Mark. She moved in with him, said he was better for her than I ever was.” Her voice cracked, bitterness seeping through.

Hyunjin’s eyes flickered briefly to Felix a silent note “And how did you feel about that?”

Sarah’s shoulders rose. “How do you think? She was my best friend. My only friend. And she just left.”

Felix scribbled the words down. He caught the way her fingers trembled, how her eyes darted not toward grief, but toward something heavier. Resentment?

“You argued with her, didn’t you?” Felix asked carefully.

Sarah’s eyes snapped up. “What? No—”

“You fought,” Hyunjin said, calm as water. “Neighbors reported shouting the week before Hannah disappeared.”

Sarah’s mouth opened, closed. “…She wasn’t listening to me. He was bad for her! He hurt her!”

Felix leaned forward, voice steady. “Did you see him hurt her?”

Silence. The air hung thick.

Then Sarah muttered, “She had bruises. She said they were nothing, but I knew.”

Hyunjin exchanged another brief glance with Felix both noting the shift. Abuse. Possible motive.

“Do you have any photos of Hannah?” Hyunjin asked at last, tone softening again. “Anything that might help us remember her as she was.”

Sarah blinked fast, swallowed. “…Yeah. I’ll get them.” She stood quickly and disappeared down the hall.

The room fell quiet. Felix tapped the end of his pen against his notebook, his eyes wandering the space. It was then that he noticed the hallway door ajar. The light spilling faintly from inside.

And what lay beyond it.

A figure. Still. Pale. Unmoving.

His chest tightened. He swallowed hard, fingers gripping the edge of his notebook.

“Hyunjin…” Felix whispered, his voice so low it was almost a tremor. “There’s someone in that room.”

Hyunjin’s gaze followed his. His body stilled, the faintest shift in his posture giving away the tension snapping into place.

Hyunjin and Felix exchanged a quick nod before following the hallway to the room. As they stepped inside, Felix's eyes widened.

A teenage boy lay on the floor, brown hair matted and dirty, eyes closed. His shirt was soaked and half torn, dried blood streaked across his mouth and stomach, severalwounds marking his body.

Felix froze, looking to Hyunjin. The older
detective's calm gaze gave him a momentary sense of steadiness. Felix bent down and pulled a photo from his pocket.

"H-Hyunjin... this is him. Mark... Hannah's boyfriend,"he whispered, pointing to the
picture.

Hyunjin crouched next tn the body, examining the cuts. They weren't fresh-old-wounds but still grim.

Before Felix could process it, a scream ripped through the air.

"NO! NO, THIS CAN'T HAPPEN!"
They turned toward the doorway. Sarah
stood there, panic written across her face,photos scattered at her feet.

"You weren't supposed to know!" she yelled,shaking violently.

Hyunjin instinctively pulled Felix behind him.

"Sarah-"he began, but she cut him off.

"NO! You weren't supposed to know!" she screamed, grabbing a knife from the counter.

She lunged at Hyunjin first. He dodged, the blade slicing the air.

"You both have to die!" she screamed, striking again-and this time, the knife sank into Felix's shoulder.

"FELIX!" Hyunjin yelled, shoving Sarah back against the wall before she could strike again.

He dropped to Felix's side, hands shaking slightly as he held him.

"No, Felix! Stay with me. Look at me!"

"I.. I'm fine.." Felix muttered through gritted teeth, clutching his shoulder.

"No! You're not fine! You just got stabbed!" Hyunjin snapped, pressing his hand firmlyover the wound to slow the bleeding.

Sarah tried to strike again, but Hyunjin
grabbed her wrist, holding it tight.

"You have to die! You have to die!" she
screamed, tears streaking her face.

Hyunjin slammed her back into the wall; herhead hit the wooden table with a thud.

She collapsed, unconscious.
Immediately, Hyunjin's attention returned to Felix, who had fainted.

"Felix?"

Chapter Text

Felix woke to the soft, steady hum of machines.

BEEP

BEEP

BEEP

His eyelids fluttered, the ceiling above a blur of pale white. He blinked until the shapes sharpened and the first thing he saw was Jisung.

His best friend sat hunched over at the edge of the bed, head pillowed on folded arms, still clutching Felix’s hand so tightly it was as though letting go would mean losing him forever.

His hair was messy, his lashes damp, his chest rising and falling in shallow, uneasy breaths.

Felix tried to shift, the faintest movement, and Jisung stirred instantly. His eyes cracked open, bloodshot and wet, and the moment they landed on Felix’s face he froze.

“Lix?” His voice was hoarse, breaking as he sat up straighter. “Oh my god-you’re awake-” His hand trembled as he tightened his grip, like he needed to feel Felix was real.

Across the room, Seungmin straightened from where he had been leaning against the wall, a cup of untouched coffee cooling in his hand.

His stoic mask slipped, relief rushing across his features. He set the cup aside and crossed the room in quick strides.

Jeongin, who had been pacing by the door with anxious steps, whipped around at Jisung’s words.

His eyes widened, already shining with tears. “Hyung!” He nearly tripped over himself as he bolted to Felix’s side.

Felix opened his mouth to reassure them, but the moment he tried to sit up, pain lanced through his shoulder. A groan escaped before he could hold it back.

“Don’t move! Don’t--” Jisung panicked, almost climbing onto the bed as he pressed Felix gently back against the pillows. His hands shook. “You-you got hurt, you can’t just-” His words crumbled into a sob he tried to choke down.

“Hey, hey-easy.” Seungmin’s voice was steady but urgent, his hand already sliding behind Felix to adjust the pillows. He moved carefully, every touch measured so he wouldn’t cause more pain. His brows furrowed, concern etched in every line of his face.

Felix exhaled shakily, forcing a small smile. “I-I’m fine-”

“Fine?” Jisung’s voice cracked, sharp and desperate. “You were bleeding out on the floor-I thought-” He bit his lip hard, the tears slipping down his cheeks despite his effort to hold them back.

Jeongin hovered close, eyes darting from Felix’s face to the IV in his arm, the bandages at his shoulder, his whole frame trembling

“You scared us so bad, hyung,” he whispered, barely holding back a sob.

The room was thick with worry, every breath heavy with the weight of almost losing him.

Felix wanted to tell them not to cry, not to look at him like he was fragile porcelain, but his throat tightened. He hated seeing their faces carved with fear.

The door creaked open, and all heads snapped toward the sound.

Chan stood in the doorway, eyes wide, almost afraid to believe what he was seeing.

“Felix?” his voice was soft, careful, as though the name itself might shatter the boy if spoken too loud. He crossed the room in a rush, crouching down at Felix’s side. “You’re awake" he paused "thank god. How are you feeling? Does it hurt too much?”

Felix blinked up at him, still hazy, still so fragile. “I… I’m fine,” he whispered, though the tremor in his voice betrayed him. His hand instinctively reached toward his shoulder, and the wince that followed said everything words couldn’t.

Chan’s brows furrowed, worry shadowing his whole expression.

He placed a gentle hand on Felix’s uninjured arm, grounding him. “Don’t push yourself just breathe, okay? That’s enough for now.”

Behind him, Jisung let out a shaky exhale he’d been holding for what felt like hours.

Seungmin pressed a hand to the back of his neck, muttering under his breath like he was finally allowing himself to release tension.

Chan glanced back at them before returning his focus to Felix, his voice steadier now but no less gentle. “When did he wake up?” he asked, his gaze moving from boy to boy until Jisung answered.

“Just now,” Jisung murmured, his voice raw from crying. He rubbed at his face quickly, embarrassed, but the wetness on his cheeks was still obvious.

Chan’s chest tightened. He reached over, briefly squeezing Jisung’s shoulder before ruffling Felix’s hair in a soft, brotherly gesture. “You scared the hell out of all of us, you know that?” His voice cracked just slightly, betraying the weight he’d been carrying.

Felix gave the smallest smile, but his lips trembled. He wanted to say sorry, wanted to tell them he hadn’t meant to worry them, but the words caught in his throat. All he could do was nod and let the warmth of their presence sink in.

The door opened again with a heavier creak this time, and Changbin stepped inside. His posture was stiff, his jaw tight, but when his eyes landed on Felix awake in bed, his shoulders eased just a little.

“Chan,” he said, voice low but steady. “Sarah’s been taken to the station. She’s still unconscious,doctors are with her now.”

Chan gave a single nod, though his hand still lingered on Felix’s arm as if he wasn’t ready to let go.

“We’ll deal with her when she wakes,” Chan murmured, then finally looked back at Felix. “Right now, nothing matters more than you.”

Changbin moved closer to the bed, his gaze softening. He hesitated for a moment before speaking. “How do you feel, Lix?”

Felix forced the faintest smile, his voice weak. “I’m fine, hyung.”

But Changbin shook his head firmly. “No. Thank you, Felix.”

Felix blinked in confusion. “Thank me?”

“You were brave,” Changbin said, his voice carrying weight, like each word was carved from stone. “You went in there knowing the risks, knowing it could turn ugly—and you still didn’t back down.” He paused, his eyes flickering over the bandages at Felix’s shoulder. “You saved us time. You saved the case.”

Felix swallowed hard, the emotion in his throat tightening.

Chan leaned in then, ruffling Felix’s hair gently, his smile soft but proud. “Changbin’s right. I wasn’t wrong to put you with Hyunjin. I wasn’t wrong to say you’re one of the sharpest detectives we have.”

Felix’s lips curved, small but genuine, even through the sting of pain. “Thank you, hyung.”

He tried to sit up straighter to show them he was strong—but the moment he shifted, agony tore through his shoulder and a groan slipped out before he could stop it.

“Hey, stop moving!” Jisung scolded, his voice wobbling as he pushed Felix gently back against the pillows. His eyes were glossy again, his hand trembling where it touched Felix’s arm.

Seungmin gave him a sharp look. “Exactly. You’ll tear your stitches if you keep being reckless.”

Felix gave them a small smile, brushing it off. But as he looked around the room, at the sterile white walls, at his friends gathered close, another thought struck him.

Hyunjin.

His chest tightened. His smile faltered.

He turned suddenly to Chan, panic flashing in his eyes. “H-hyung… Hyunjin. Where is he? Is he hurt? Did he-”

“Felix.” Chan’s voice cut through his spiral, calm but firm. He leaned closer, gripping Felix’s hand again. “Breathe. Hyunjin’s fine.”

Felix blinked at him, searching his eyes for truth.

“He’s in the other wing getting stitched,” Chan explained gently. “Just minor cuts, nothing serious. He’s alright. He told us to make sure you were okay first.”

Only then did Felix exhale, his body sinking back into the bed as if the tension had been holding him upright. Relief rushed through him so fast it almost hurt.

“Oh, thank God” Felix whispered, closing his eyes for a moment. His hand, still in Chan’s, trembled as his lips curved into the faintest smile.

----

Jisung sat perched on the edge of Felix’s hospital bed, a steaming bowl of soup in one hand and a spoon in the other.

“Alright, open up,” he said, moving the spoon closer.

Felix turned his head away, lips pressed tight. “No.”

“Felix.” Jisung dragged out his name like a warning. “You’ve had two bites. Two. That doesn’t even count as eating.”

Felix gave a weak wave of his hand. “I can’t, Ji. My stomach feels too heavy already.”

“Your stomach is empty,” Jisung argued, setting the bowl down with a thud. “You’re pale, stitched up, and you nearly fainted twice since you woke up. You need fuel or you’re just going to get worse.”

Felix groaned, sinking further into the pillows. “I just… can’t.”

Jisung stared at him for a long beat, worry pinching his face, but eventually let out a sigh and leaned back in the chair. “Fine. But when you keel over from hunger, don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

Silence fell. The steady beep of the monitor filled the room, soft and rhythmic. Jeongin had already gone home to rest. Seungmin, Chan, and Changbin were outside dealing with paperwork and updates. Which meant it was just Jisung and Felix here.

But even with the quiet, Felix’s mind was anything but calm. His fingers twisted in the blanket, his thoughts circling back to the one person he hadn’t seen yet.

Hyunjin.

He hadn’t come in once since Felix woke up. Not even to check. Not even to say hello. The longer it went on, the tighter Felix’s chest grew.

*What if he doesn’t want to see me?*
*What if he blames me?*
*What if he thinks it’s my fault?*

Felix bit down on his lip, heart squeezing. Finally, he whispered, almost too softly: “Ji… when can I see Hyunjin?”

Jisung blinked, sitting up straighter. “Hyunjin?”

Felix nodded, his gaze glued to the blanket. “i just-” His voice cracked, and he swallowed hard. “does he not want to-.” before he chould finish

The door creaked open.

Hyunjin stepped inside, tall frame filling the doorway. His dark hair was pulled back loosely, still damp, a plain white shirt clinging to him.

He carried no files, no badge just himself. And when his eyes landed on Felix, something unspoken flickered there.

Hyunjin and Felix looked at eachother

Jisung looked at the two before standing up "I just remembered I need to...use the restroom"jisung said rushing past hyunjin

He shut the door softly behind him and crossed the room.

Felix stared, throat dry, until Hyunjin finally broke the silence.

"You’re awake.”

Felix blinked, almost flustered. “Y-yeah. Since this morning.”

Hyunjin gave a small nod, pulling the chair closer but not sitting immediately. He hovered, as if unsure of how close he was allowed to be. “How do you feel?”

Felix forced a smile. “Alive, sore but alive.”

Hyunjin nodded again, eyes darting briefly toward the window instead of him.

The silence stretched. Felix’s chest twisted tighter with every second Hyunjin wouldn’t look at him. Finally, he blurted it out before he could stop himself.

“Why are you ignoring me?”

Hyunjin froze, his head snapping back toward Felix. “What?”

“You haven’t been here,” Felix said quietly. “Not once. And now you’re not even looking at me.” His voice wavered. “Did I…do something wrong?”

Hyunjin’s face fell. “Felix, no.” He sank into the chair at last, shaking his head hard. “I wasn’t ignoring you. God, I could never ignore you.”

“Then why?” Felix pressed, his eyes stinging. “Why won’t you even look at me?”

For a long moment, Hyunjin didn’t answer. His jaw worked, his chest rising and falling faster, until finally, the words broke out of him.

“Because every time I look at you, all I see is the moment I failed.” His voice was raw, cracked. His hands clenched against his knees. “You were bleeding in front of me, because I wasn’t fast enough. Because I didn’t protect you. That knife should’ve hit me, not you.”

“Hyunjin…”

“I should’ve stopped her sooner,” Hyunjin pressed, his voice trembling now. “I should’ve taken the hit, not you. And I-” He dragged a hand over his face. “I don’t think I can forgive myself for letting that happen.”

Felix’s heart twisted painfully. Slowly, he reached out, his hand brushing Hyunjin’s where it rested on the bedrail.

“Hyunjin. Look at me.”

Hyunjin hesitated, but finally, his dark eyes lifted, filled with guilt.

“You didn’t fail me,” Felix whispered. “You saved me. If you hadn’t been there, I’d be dead. You stopped her. You kept me alive.”

Hyunjin’s lips parted, but Felix shook his head firmly before he could argue.

“You’re not allowed to carry that guilt. Not for me. I trust you. I always will.”

For a long moment, Hyunjin just stared at him, chest tight, eyes searching. Then, finally, his hand turned beneath Felix’s, fingers lacing gently with his.

“But still-"

"Please don't blame yourself you saved me and I'm thankfuk.for it" Felix’s lips tugged into a small smile, cheeks warming.

Hyunjin huffed softly, squeezing his hand tightet.

----

“I don’t wanna disturb you, Ji!!” Felix whined, lips curling into a pout.

It had been a week since the stabbing. The pain was still there sharp whenever he moved too much but the edges of it were dulling, healing.

In that week, his friends had refused to leave his side. They made sure he ate, slept, and took his medicine.

And Hyunjin

Hyunjin had been something else entirely. He had spent nights sitting in the uncomfortable chair beside Felix’s bed, never once complaining. Even when Felix whined and begged him to go home and rest, Hyunjin stayed. Because if Felix was stubborn, Hyunjin was even more stubborn.

Hyunjin fed him every spoonful when Felix resisted. Hyunjin fixed his pillows, tucked his blankets, adjusted the IV line when it tugged at his arm. He made sure Felix was comfortable before even thinking about himself. It was ridiculous. It was overwhelming.

It was...angelic.

And now, at last, the doctor had said Felix was well enough to be discharged.

The news made Felix practically buzz. A week of staring at pale white walls, hearing nothing but machines and nurses’ footsteps he was finally going home.

Still, there was one problem: Jisung.

“Oh, come on Felix, no excuses. You’re coming with us home,” Jisung said, folding his arms, his bowl of soup untouched on the side table.

“Ji, I told you it’s not a big deal. I can take care of myself.”

“Says who? You?” Jisung scoffed, his sarcasm sharp. “Please. On day one, you’d forget your meds, skip meals, and probably fall asleep sitting on the floor.”

Felix groaned, hiding his face in his hands. “I don’t wanna disturb you and Leeknow hyung—”

Before Jisung could cut in, Minho who had been quiet until now leaned forward, brows knitting

“Hey. Don’t you dare say that.” His voice was firm but warm. “You’re not a disturbance, Felix. If anything, I’d love to have you with us. You’re like a little brother to me.”

Felix peeked through his fingers, heart swelling at Minho’s words. “I know, hyung I know. But you guys barely get time together as it is. I don’t wanna be a burden.”

“You’ll never be a burden,” Jisung said instantly, arms crossing tighter over his chest as if he could shield Felix from even thinking that.

“I know, Ji,” Felix whispered, fiddling with the edge of his blanket. “It’s just…I can take care of myself.”

“No, you can’t.”

Felix blinked. “What?”

Chan, who had been leaning against the wall listening quietly, finally stepped in, his leader-tone slipping through. “Why are you so stubborn, Lix? Look at yourself you can barely move without wincing in pain. You’re still healing, and pretending otherwise won’t change that.”

“Chan hyung’s right,” Jeongin chimed in from where he sat on the couch. “You need someone looking after you. At least for now.”

Felix opened his mouth, then closed it again, cheeks heating. He couldn’t argue because they were right. He was healing, but nowhere near strong enough yet.

"If you guys want I chould take Felix with me"

Chapter Text

“If you guys want, I could take Felix home with me.”

All eyes turned toward the figure who had been quietly leaning against the doorframe.

Hyunjin.

“I mean, it’s not like I mind,” he said smoothly, stepping further into the room. “I’d love some company” His lips curved into that dazzling smile that always seemed to come so effortlessly

Felix swore his heart skipped a beat

“I’m alone most of the time anyway, so it’ll be nice to have you around, strawberry. So, what do you say?” Hyunjin’s gaze softened, his smile never fading.

Felix could feel his pulse in his ears whenever Hyunjin called him that.

“That’s not a bad idea,” Chan said, unfolding his arms with a thoughtful nod.

“What do you say, Lix?” Jisung turned, expectant.

“I—I’d love to stay with you, Hyunjin, but I don’t wanna both-”

“Please, Felix.” Hyunjin’s voice was gentle but firm, cutting him off. “Don’t say it like that. Don’t call yourself a bother. I’d love to have you with me.”

Felix’s throat went dry. He looked toward Hyunjin

And oh.
Oh.

Who was he to deny that gorgeous smile, that perfectly carved jaw, those pretty eyes?

“…Okay,” Felix breathed out, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Thank you.”

“So it’s settled,” Jeongin said brightly, clapping his hands together.

---

“Careful, careful,” Jisung muttered, fussing as he helped Felix into the front passenger seat of Hyunjin’s car.

He double-checked the seatbelt, the pillows, the blanket draped over Felix’s lap, before finally stepping back. “Drive safe, guys! And Lixie, don’t put too much pressure on your shoulder, okay?” Jisung’s hand flailed in a little wave.

From the driver’s side, Chan leaned forward toward the window with a grin. “Get well soon, Lix! And Hyunjin" he fixed him with a pointed look “I hope you’ll take excellent care of him”

“Of course I will,” Hyunjin replied with a wink that made Felix’s stomach flip

“I know you will now, chop chop!” Chan said, waving them off

The car pulled away, hospital shrinking in the rearview mirror.

Felix had finally been discharged
He was sitting in Hyunjin’s car
Heading to Hyunjin’s apartment

Hyunjin’s apartment.

HYUNJINS APARTMENT
HIS APARTMENT
THIS IS FATEEE

Felix’s brain screamed.

No
Stop it

This isn’t some high school rom-com. Hyunjin sees you as a friend. Just a friend!...Friends help friends

Yeah absolutely just friends helping friends

…Right?

BECAUSE IF HE REA-

“So, strawberry,” Hyunjin’s voice pulled him back, casual yet warm, “how does it feel to finally get discharged after weeks?” One hand rested easily on the wheel, the other loose on his lap.

Felix turned his head, his lips curving into a soft smile despite himself.

“Honestly? Good. Really good. It feels nice to finally breathe fresh air again after being stuck in that white room all the time" He let out a quiet giggle, the sound even surprising himself.

Hyunjin chuckled too, eyes on the road. “Yeah, I can imagine must’ve been boring, staring at those walls all day.” He shot Felix a quick glance, lips quirking. “Though...I hope you didn’t get sick of seeing my face every day"

Felix’s words slipped out before he could stop them. “Why would I get annoyed at seeing such a pretty face?”

His heart froze the moment he realized what he’d said.

“Hm?” Hyunjin’s brow arched in surprise then, slowly “Well…is that flirting, strawberry?”

Felix swallowed, forcing out a tiny, “Maybe”

Hyunjin’s laugh was low, delighted, and it sent shivers straight down Felix’s spine. “You’re cute, you know that?”

Felix’s cheeks burned, his gaze darting away, fixed firmly on the passing scenery outside the window. “Shut up..” he mumbled, but the little smile tugging at his lips betrayed him.

----

Hyunjin carefully guided Felix into the apartment, his hand warm and steady at Felix’s waist. “Easy now,” he murmured, moving at Felix’s pace as though one wrong step might hurt him.

Felix let himself sink into the sofa, exhaling slowly as the cushions caught his weight. His shoulder throbbed in protest, but when he finally looked up, the ache dulled against the surprise of what he saw.

The apartment was… beautiful. Not the sterile neatness of a showroom, but a lived-in kind of beautiful. Soft light spilled from lamps instead of harsh overhead bulbs. Books were stacked neatly on a side table, a blanket folded on the armrest.

Paintings hung on the walls, and plants filled the corners, their leaves spilling down like little waterfalls of green.

“Sorry-it’s a little messy,” Hyunjin said, as he scooped up a stray hoodie from the couch and folded it in half.

Felix blinked, then laughed. “Messy? You call this messy?” He waved a hand weakly around the room. “Hyunjin, this place looks like it belongs in a magazine.”

God everything about this man was perfect

“You think so?” Hyunjin asked, sounding genuinely curious.

Felix nodded eagerly, eyes roaming the room again. “It’s gorgeous. And…cozy. You know, it feels like the kind of place you actually want to stay in.”

Hyunjin tugged off his coat, tossing it onto a chair. “Funny,” he said with a shrug, “I never really thought much about it.”

Felix reached toward a small framed painting on the side table, fingertips brushing against the glass. “Well, it shows, even if you don’t notice it yourself. This place feels like…home.”

When Hyunjin came back from the kitchen with a glass of water, Felix accepted it gratefully. He drank in two long gulps, his throat still dry from the hospital air.

“Better?” Hyunjin asked, sitting down beside him.

Felix nodded, handing the glass back. “much thank you.”

“Good” Hyunjin stretched his arms along the backrest, the casual sprawl of his body at odds with the watchful glance he kept sneaking at Felix. “Make yourself comfortable, strawberry”

The nickname made Felix’s chest tighten. He forced himself to look away before his blush gave him away. “I will" he murmured, tucking his legs a little closer to himself.

For a while, neither of them spoke. Felix let the quiet fill him, soaking in the warmth of the apartment, the faint hum of the city beyond the window, and the comforting presence at his side. He finally broke the silence with a sigh.

“Crazy how you can keep your place this clean,” Felix muttered, half teasing. “If someone looked at my apartment right now, they’d think I lived in a cave.”

Hyunjin chuckled, the sound deep and warm. “It’s not that hard”

“Oh, please,” Felix cut in, rolling his eyes. “Not hard for you I could scrub for hours and mine still looks like a crime scene.”

Hyunjin shook his head, still laughing. “That sounds like a you problem.”

Felix nudged him weakly with his elbow. “Rude.”

Another pause. Then Hyunjin tilted his head. “So,” he said casually, “what are you in the mood for? Dinner-wise.”

Felix hummed, eyes slipping closed. “What if I say nothing "

Hyunjin completed ignored his words "Excellent idea strawberry tomato soup and grilled cheese it is" he said making Felix chuckle

---

Felix sat on the stool at the counter, his chin propped up in his palm as he watched Hyunjin move around the kitchen.

“Sooo…” Felix tilted his head, his voice careful but teasing, “you can cook?”

“Of course,” Hyunjin said, rolling his sleeves up with easy confidence.

"Really?"

"Yeah"

Felix let out a small laugh, shaking his head. “Wow. I can’t even stay in the kitchen for twenty minutes before the fire alarm goes off.”

Hyunjin glanced at him with a grin as he sliced into the tomatoes, his movements smooth and precise. “So you’re not much of a chef, then?”

“As if that wasn’t obvious,” Felix muttered, lips twitching. “I can bake alright, but cooking? disaster complete disaster.”

"Really? What do you bake"

"Well I can bake sugar cookies,cakes,brownie-"

"Brownies? There my favourite dessert you know!" Hyunjin said looking up

"Really" Felix replied excitedly "then you have to try my brownies my friends say there the best"

"Oh I will you better make me a batch of those when you get better"

Hyunjin chuckled under his breath, tossing the tomatoes into a pot. “But really that makes us a good balance, doesn’t it? You bake, I cook.”

Felix blinked, caught off guard, and lowered his gaze to the counter “Maybe" he mumbled, the corners of his mouth curling in the smallest smile and his cheeks turning pink

—

Hyunjin slid the steaming bowl of soup across the counter, settling down with his own bowl directly in front of Felix. “Bon appétit, strawberry,” he said with a little flourish, twirling the spoon between his fingers before taking a sip.

Felix picked up his spoon and cautiously tasted the soup. His eyes widened instantly, the flavor blooming across his tongue. “Wowww…” he gasped, staring into the bowl like it had just revealed the secrets of the universe.

"Oh god hyunjin!"

Hyunjin blinked at him, confused. “Is it bad?”

“Bad my ass!” Felix clapped his hands together, nearly bouncing in his seat. “This is the best food I’ve had in forever, oh my god.”

Hyunjin chuckled, raising a brow at his dramatic reaction. “That good?”

“YES!” Felix said, his voice pitching higher than he meant it to. “This is fantastic gosh You could be a head chef,no, you could work for Gordon Ramsey or be the next gor-”

“Alright alright" Hyunjin interrupted, laughing as he waved his spoon in the air. “Now you’re being dramatic, strawberry i’m nowhere near that level.”

Felix dropped his spoon with a clink and threw his arms across his chest. “What do you mean? If I could cook like this, I’d be so proud of myself. Too bad I..” he sighed deeply, “burn water.”

That earned another laugh from Hyunjin, warm and rich, the sound filling the cozy kitchen. “Maybe you’re just impressed because you’re used to bad food.”

Felix’s mouth fell open in mock offense. “Heyyy! Are you calling me a bad chef?”

“I don’t know.” Hyunjin leaned in slightly, his lips quirking. “Am I?”

Felix huffed, turning his face away, though his cheeks burned pink. “Bully.”

Hyunjin just chuckled again, watching the way Felix hid behind his pout, the corners of his own mouth tugging higher.

----

Felix leaned back in his seat with a satisfied sigh, patting his stomach. “God, I ate so much.”

Hyunjin raised an eyebrow, lips tugging into a small smirk. “Wow, you really have the appetite of a bird. That wasn’t even a full serving.”

Felix narrowed his eyes playfully. “Hey! I almost cleared the bowl, thank you very much for me, that’s impressive.”

Hyunjin chuckled, shaking his head as he scooped up both of their empty dishes. “If you say so, strawberry.”

Felix crossed his arms with a tiny huff, but the corners of his lips betrayed him, curling into a smile.

Hyunjin carried the bowls to the sink with ease, rolling up his sleeves again. Felix watched him for a moment before sighing dramatically. “Wait, I’ll help—”

“Nope,” Hyunjin said firmly, cutting him off before he could even get up. “Doctor’s orders you rest.”

Felix pouted. “oh come on”

"Nope sit back down" hyunjin said leaving no room for argument

"But I feel useless sitting here while-"

“Strawberry.” Hyunjin gave him that calm, steady look over his shoulder. “You’re not useless. You’re recovering. That’s more important than helping me wash a couple bowls.”

Felix sank back into his seat, cheeks warming. “…Fine. But only because you’re being bossy.”

Hyunjin chuckled, turning back to the sink. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

Felix rested his chin in his hands, quietly watching as Hyunjin moved around the kitchen. The way he hummed under his breath, sleeves rolled neatly at his elbows, hair falling slightly into his eyes it all looked so natural, so effortlessly perfect.

“You’re staring,” Hyunjin said suddenly, glancing at him with a teasing smirk.

Felix jolted upright, tugging the blanket on the stool up to his chin. “I-I wasn’t!”

“Mhmm.” Hyunjin turned back to the dishes, clearly amused“Sure strawberry”

Felix huffed into the blanket, trying to hide the smile tugging at his lips

This wasn’t fair

Hyunjin was handsome, kind, knew how to cook, and was taking care of him like it was second nature.

It was too much.

And yet felix couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.

----
---

Hyunjin opened the door to his bedroom, letting Felix step inside first. The room was warm, softly lit by a bedside lamp, and smelled faintly of lavender. A neatly made bed sat in the center, blankets folded just so, with a small bookshelf in the corner.

“Wow…” Felix breathed, looking around in awe. “This… is really nice.”

Hyunjin smiled, closing the door behind them. “I’m glad you like it. Make yourself comfortable, yeah?”

Felix nodded and slowly lowered himself onto the bed, the soft sheets a welcome relief against his sore muscles. He stretched slightly, wincing a little, but a small smile tugged at his lips.

Hyunjin crouched beside the bed for a moment, tucking a stray lock of blonde hair behind Felix’s ear. “Night night, strawberry,” he said softly, his voice almost a whisper.

Felix blinked at him, warmth rising in his chest. “Night… Hyunjin,” he murmured, pulling the blanket a little higher around himself.

Hyunjin began to stand, hand resting on the doorframe. “Sleep well, okay? I’ll—”

“Wait!” Felix’s voice came out a little louder than intended. He bit his lip nervously, eyes wide as he looked up. “Where…where are you going to sleep?”

Hyunjin paused, his lips curling into a teasing grin. “Hmm… I guess I’ll just sleep on the floor?” he said, letting the words hang, deliberately playful.

Felix’s eyes went even wider, panic rising in his chest. “No! Wait i can’t let you do that! That’s no—”

Hyunjin chuckled softly, holding up his hands. “Relax, strawberry. I’m kidding. I’ll sleep in the other room, of course.”

Felix let out a shaky sigh, cheeks burning. “Oh… oh, okay. Good.”

Hyunjin leaned down slightly, brushing the blanket back over Felix’s shoulders. “Sleep well, okay? I’ll be right next door if you need anything.”

Felix nodded, curling slightly into the blankets, heart still racing. “Thanks… Hyunjin.”

Hyunjin gave him a warm, reassuring smile before finally leaving the room, the soft click of the door sealing Felix in the cozy, quiet darkness, and for the first time in days, he felt a sense of calm settle over him.