Chapter 19

Today was Jin's last day at home before he had to leave. Tomorrow, before the sun even rose, he would be on his way to the airport, catching an early morning flight that would pull him into a new routine of tight schedules and endless work.

It was a quiet afternoon. Namjoon had stepped out for a while, leaving Jin alone in the house. Since there wasn't much to do, Jin decided to start packing his suitcase. He began folding his clothes one by one, lost in thought, when he heard the door open. Namjoon walked in, his brows furrowed.

"Hyung, I told you I'd help you pack. Why did you start without me?" he said, sounding half-serious, half-sulky.

Jin looked up, smiling faintly. "Namjoon, I was just folding. I didn't even put anything inside yet."

Namjoon didn't argue. Instead, he came closer, carrying a small paper bag. He sat down beside Jin, pulled out a few strips of tablets, and patiently explained their purpose-vitamins, cold medicine, even a couple of mild sleeping pills. "In case you get sick or feel restless," he said softly. Then he neatly packed them into a small pouch and placed it carefully on top of Jin's clothes.

Jin's heart stirred at the sight. He'd long grown used to Namjoon's quiet habits of care-whenever they travelled together, Namjoon was the one who made sure Jin had everything he needed. And when Jin travelled alone, Namjoon still ensured he was prepared. That thought warmed him more than he'd admit.

They continued folding clothes together, the rhythm easy between them. At some point, Namjoon left the room, only to return with two of his own t-shirts. Without asking, he tucked them into Jin's suitcase.

Jin blinked, puzzled. "Why are you giving me yours?"

Namjoon smiled, eyes soft. "So that if you miss me, you can look at these."

Jin clicked his tongue, feigning annoyance. "Why would I miss you? I'll be busy the whole time."

Namjoon pouted, sulking a little. "I know. But keep them anyway."

Jin didn't answer, but his heart knew the truth-he was already afraid of missing him. They'd been apart before because of work, but this time, the thought of leaving Namjoon behind for months hurt in a way it hadn't before.

By evening, their packing was done, and they decided to eat out. They went to a small ramen shop nearby, their usual spot, and ate until both were full. On their way back, Namjoon suddenly said, "Hyung, let's walk a little before going inside."

Jin didn't find a reason to refuse, so they strolled quietly down the street. The lamps were scattered, faint light spilling over them every few steps. Namjoon's hand slipped around Jin's waist, holding gently. Jin felt a strange stir in his chest, but he didn't remove the hand. For once, he allowed the closeness.

They walked for a while.

Namjoon tilted his head toward the stars, his voice low. "I'd love to freeze this moment."

Jin frowned lightly. "Why?"

"With you in my arms... what more do I need?"

Jin's heart hammered. The words struck too deep, so he quickly turned away. "Let's go. It's late, I need to wake up early tomorrow."

Namjoon chuckled softly, and they walked home in silence, the weight of unspoken feelings between them.

Back at the house, they each went to shower in their respective rooms, and later, Namjoon entered Jin's room without asking, as though it was natural. Jin was lying in bed, scrolling his phone. Namjoon gently took it from his hands and set it aside.

"Hyung, let's sleep," he murmured, sliding under the blanket. He side-hugged Jin, pulling him close. Jin lay stiff, facing away, but he didn't push him off either. Namjoon leaned in and kissed his forehead softly. He kissed again-on his temple, then once more, as if memorizing him. Jin's chest ached with each touch. He wanted to admit he liked it, but his pride wouldn't let him.

Then Namjoon moved slowly, hovering above him, lips inches away. Jin's panic surged, and his hand pressed firmly against Namjoon's chest.

"Namjoon... don't do this. You've been good all these days."

Namjoon froze, guilt flickering in his eyes. But before backing down, he held Jin's hand against his chest, placed a few quick pecks on his face, and gave one last kiss to his forehead before lying back down.

He hugged Jin tightly again, his warm breath against Jin's ear. "Hyung, two months feels so long. Especially when I can't even come see you."

"You'll be busy with exams," Jin said quietly.

"But you'll always be in my mind."

Jin's heart clenched.

"Don't forget me," Namjoon whispered. "And... don't get close to anyone. I can't stand that."

Jin sighed, eyes shut. "Let's sleep. Good night."

Namjoon didn't stop. His voice softened, almost pleading. "Hyung, you know I love you, right?"

Jin didn't reply. He kept his eyes closed, but his heart thudded painfully. Namjoon kissed his cheek gently. "Good night," he whispered, finally resting.

Namjoon slept easily, but Jin couldn't. He stared at the ceiling in silence, his chest heavy. It hurt him to see Namjoon like this-so consumed, so unwilling to let anyone else in. Other boys his age laughed with friends, dated, went out to parties, lived freely. But Namjoon had closed his world, and in it, there was only Jin.

Jin's chest ached. He thought, if he didn't melt this obsession soon, what would happen to Namjoon when Jin wasn't there anymore?