“Yoosung please.” Saeyoung tried to pull the man closer but Yoosung pushed him away.
“No!” he screamed and ran back to the chair. Saeran’s chair. The one he always sat in next to the window where he could feel the sun and watch the clouds. The one he always chose when he read or took a small nap. The one where Yoosung would sit on his lap and Saeran would pretend to be annoyed. The one that had his scent all over it.
Saeyoung sighed and sat on the bed facing Yoosung, elbows on his knees, hands clasped together. He stared at Yoosung, watching him twist himself into a fetal position on the chair, hugging himself with his face buried into the cushiony backrest. Tears sprang to his eyes and he had to look away.
“Just…listen to me OK?” Saeyoung said, Yoosung shrugged but said nothing. “We’re going to be leaving in about thirty minutes and I expect you in the car.”
There was a muffled “No.” from Yoosung, causing Saeyoung to sigh again.
“Look at yourself!” he stood and raised his voice. “Do you think this is what Saeran would want for you? To be tied to his memory for the rest of your life?” he knew he was being cruel, but he didn’t know what else to do.
“Shut up! You don’t know what he wants, he’s not here anymore!” Yoosung spat back at him, tears rolling down his face, his fists clenched, body tense.
“I know. I’m not asking you to let him go Yoosung, not all of him. But he deserves better than this. You do too. Please…” he pleaded and held his hand towards Yoosung. It looked as if he would refuse but his eyes softened and he took the hand, letting Saeyoung pull him up and out of the chair.
Saeran had been declared brain dead only days before and they had taken him off life support. The accident that had put him in the hospital had been horrific, a ten car pileup which had left sex people dead on the scene and several more dead in the days that followed, Saeran being one of them. Yoosung had survived without a scratch on him. Saeyoung understood that he would likely have to deal with and concur the very real survivor’s guilt. As far as Saeyoung was concerned, he didn’t blame Yoosung for surviving, he was grateful he had, the loss of them both would have been even more traumatizing to them all.
It was ironic that he had so recently found and reconnected with his twin, only to have him permanently snatched from him.
“I just can’t…he…he’s really gone?” Yoosung sobbed as they walked into the living room where MC waited.
“I know.” Saeyoung agreed, he didn’t want to believe it either.
“It just, doesn’t…I still feel him…” Yoosung protested.
“Me too.” And that was the rub. They were twins, yet nothing in his bones told him his brother was dead. He should feel something, shouldn’t he? When they were younger, he could always tell when their mother was especially harsh on Saeran because he could almost feel the physical abuse himself, even if he was out of the house. This usually made him return as fast as possible. He would usually find Saeran locked in the closet bruised and battered, or in a heap on the floor passed out from being hit in the head. There were also times while they were separated that he was almost sure what he was feeling was something happening to Saeran.
Now, he felt a strange emptiness. An emptiness he told himself must mean Saeran was dead. But he couldn’t quite convince himself of it. He could not however, deny his own eyes. He’d watched Saeran take his last breath, had watched as the heart monitor flatlined. No, whatever he felt, Saeran was dead and the sooner he dealt with that reality, the better. For all of them.
“We should get going, Jumin is picking up Jaehee and Zen, they’ll meet us at the funeral home.”
“No…he…he isn’t…he can’t be…I…” Yoosung muttered to himself but let Saeyoung lead him towards the vehicle. They gently helped him into the back seat and Saeyoung got behind the wheel while MC took the passenger seat. She reached over to him and gave his hand a squeeze. If it hadn’t been for her, Saeyoung didn’t think he would have survived his brother’s death.
He drove slowly, not wanting to get to where they were going. Not wanting to say goodbye forever. Unfortunately, it didn’t take them long to reach their destination. They struggled getting Yoosung out of the car, mostly because he seemed to be in another world.
Five minutes after they entered the viewing room Jumin and the others arrived. None of them had wanted to go see him. Because the cause of death had been the accident, Saeyoung had asked for there to be no autopsy, the idea of his brother’s body being cut up was revolting. The only thing he had asked of the mortician was to cover up the bruising on his face and the patch of hair that was missing from his head.
Yoosung stared at the coffin on the far side of the room. As the others spoke softly to each other he began making his way towards it. There was a whisper, a sound, a sensation that itched at his brain. The lid was down so he was unable to see what was inside.
“H…he…he’s not dead…” he murmured. A few more steps and he was sure, it was Saeran, he was hearing Saeran. “He’s Not Dead!” he screamed and broke into a run. Zen reacted quickly and grabbed him before he had upended the coffin.
“Stop it!” he held onto the man as he struggled. Yoosung had very little strength left in him and it was not difficult for Zen to hold him.
The others surrounded them now and looked worried.
“He’s gone Yoosung.” Jumin said gently. He stepped towards the coffin and opened the lid. Saeran lay in the comfortable confines, eyes closed, as if he was asleep. The mortician had done and excellent job, he didn’t look as if he had been in an accident at all. Yoosung calmed down and Zen let him go. He stared at Saeran in disbelief and shook his head.
“No, no, no.” he kept repeating the word like a mantra, but he felt defeated and sank onto a pew.
The service was short, some of the people that showed up were friends Saeran had made going to therapy groups and through his photography hobby. There were also friends he had made through Yoosung, including Yoosung’s family, who also appeared worried about him.
Once the service was over, the people made their way to the cemetery next door, most walked, some took a vehicle. The RFA opted to walk.
Saeyoung looked up at the sky and smiled. Saeran would have loved this day. The sun was shining and the clouds were full, floating gently in the breeze.
“Can’t you hear him?” Yoosung muttered. He scratched at his head, it buzzed with so much noise, but he was sure Saeran was there as well.
Saeyoung and MC exchanged a worried glance. Jumin had already suggested they seek therapy for Yoosung, who was the one taking Saeran’s death the worst. Yoosung had declined, unwilling to admit Saeran was gone. They had not forced the issue, but perhaps they would need to revisit that option.
When they reached the burial site, the coffin was already suspended over it, ready to be lowered. Yoosung looked up and tilted his head. There was that whisper again, that scratching, that sound! He looked around but it didn’t seem like anyone else heard it. But Saeyoung was Saeran’s twin, why didn’t he hear it? He grabbed Saeyoung’s suit jacket by the lapels and pulled him in, face to face.
“Why can’t you hear it! You must hear it! Hear HIM! He’s your twin! Listen! Open your mind! He’s alive!” he screamed in Saeyoung’s face. Jumin and Zen had to pull him off Saeyoung and once he was, Yoosung collapsed and began to sob.
“I’ll take care of him.” Zen said and waved the others on.
“No. We shouldn’t…” Saeyoung began but MC took his hand and pulled him.
“You need to say goodbye.” She urged. He sighed and nodded, leaving Yoosung in Zen’s capable hands.
What was Yoosung talking about? What couldn’t he hear? They stopped a foot away from the coffin. He could hear others in the small crowd crying. Crying for his brother. In the short time he’d had them, he’d made wonderful friends who cared about him. More than Saeyoung himself had ever made. It gave him some small comfort to know that his twin had had so much happiness before he died. He deserved so much more.
The spiritual leader said some nice words that Saeyoung didn’t even hear and then it was time to lower the casket. MC squeezed his hand in support as they all watched it go down. Yoosung was sobbing loudly, pleading for them not to lower it, not to bury him, he was still alive. Saeyoung shook his head and became angry, why couldn’t Yoosung stop! It was hard enough without that thought in his head, Saeran buried alive!
Saeran buried alive…Saeran…buried alive. Saeyoung’s head snapped up, eyes wide.
“Stop!” he demanded. “Pull him back up!” he told the man who was cranking the apparatus used to lower the casket. The man looked to the priest who just shrugged. “NOW!” Saeyoung screamed in the man’s face. Without a second thought he pulled it back up and Saeyoung threw the lid open. There were several gasps from those attending but he didn’t care.
Saeran hadn’t moved, he still looked asleep, hands clasped across his chest. He waited, and he listened. There was nothing at first, then he heard it. A whisper, like paper being slid across a desk. A sound, pages in a book being flipped. A scent, Saeran’s shampoo, the one Saeyoung had gotten him as a joke, strawberry children’s shampoo. He’d used it just to spite Saeyoung, but it turned out he’d liked it and kept buying it.
“Saeran?”
“Saeyoung…” MC lay her hand on his shoulder and he flinched, but she didn’t let go. “He’s gone honey.” Saeyoung shook his head.
“No, no he’s not…” he looked back and locked eyes with Yoosung, who was still being held by Zen, both men sitting on the grass. Yoosung smiled and nodded slowly.
“Come on Saeran!” Saeyoung yelled at his brother. The whisper became a hushed tone, louder and louder until it was a chorus. Saeyoung closed his eyes and willed his essence, his soul, his being, whatever it was called, his life force towards his brother’s body, and there it was. Faint, floundering, but still there. Saeran was still there.
Saeran opened his eyes and stared into the clouded sky. He couldn’t breathe, his chest felt constricted and then like a cork flying off a bottle, his breath came slamming back into his lungs. He choked, the coppery taste of blood on his tongue. When he was able to breath normally, he noticed all the faces staring at him. He nodded his thanks to his brother and finally smiled when he met amethyst eyes.
The blue liquid swirled around before being flushed down the toilet. More than two weeks. It had been more than two weeks. Two weeks since he’d started flushing the elixir down the drain. The first time he’d done it because he was angry with the Savior for yet again refusing to let him just kill Seven. That night he’d had terrible nightmares, his head pounding like someone had taken a jackhammer to it. He vowed to take the elixir the next day as soon as he possibly could to make it stop.
However, in the morning the head pounding had lessoned, and he realized that the nightmares had been memories. He began to remember his childhood. Though it was painful, it was also the most real thing he could remember experiencing in years. When it came time to take the elixir again, he once more flushed it down the toilet and more memories resurfaced. His mother. The beatings. The drunken diatribes where she blamed him for everything that had ever gone wrong in her life. And then…the memories of his brother. Saeyoung, before he had become Luciel and Seven. Saeyoung, who held him when he was weeping. Saeyoung, who brought him books he scavenged to teach him how to read. Saeyoung, who snuck him out while their mother was in a drunken stupor and showed him the clouds in the sky and introduced him to ice cream.
His heart had begun to ache. His head had begun to clear. There were still residual effects, his body was going through withdrawals and he had to spend most of his days locked away in his section, coming out only at nighttime when most of the disciples were in bed. It was getting better. There were no more shakes and the sweating had lessoned considerably. Enough that he felt comfortable leaving his area during the day.
Most of the disciples were afraid of him and gave him a wide berth anyway. It was getting harder and harder to maintain that illusion of strength. Thankfully he didn’t have to do much since that fear was pretty much ingrained in everyone he had ever come in contact with, and even the ones he hadn’t, as the stories about him abounded throughout the compound.
The savior had given him time to hack into the RFA, but Saeran had done nothing on that front since that first day of not taking the elixir. He knew he was living on borrowed time and he had to get away. The last two days he’d spent downloading everything that had to do with Mint Eye and the elixir. Rika kept most of her plans secure where only she had access to them, but anything that had been uploaded into a computer, Saeran had been able to obtain. Because she understood how easily something could be hacked given the right person, she opted to have much of her plans on paper and close at hand at all times. What he had was enough to make sure she would never be able to touch the RFA.
Walking down the hallway he marveled at how quickly things had changed for him. There were still mixed feelings about his brother, but intellectually he knew all the negative feelings had been induced through brainwashing. Unfortunately, just because he knew they weren’t real didn’t mean he could stop thinking them.
“Saeran.” Rika called from behind him. Saeran stopped and turned towards her slowly. “I didn’t expect to see you out and about. I was told you’ve been sequestered in your office 24/7.” She walked up to him, security escorting her. She never went anywhere without them. They were her elite, willing to take a bullet for her. He wondered how he never saw how paranoid she was. Even here, among those who adored her, worshiped her, she would never feel safe.
“I have been. But I need to go out and get some more equipment.” He said, hoping she would let him go.
“Don’t be ridiculous, you can have someone else do that for you. I need you here. Every second counts when your trying to outwit someone smarter than you.” She smiled at him.
Saeran’s jaw clenched. This is what she did, pushed him, needled him, jabbed at him the way his mother had, as the weaker of the twins. He clenched his fists and reacted the way she expected him to.
“He’s just lucky! Not smarter. And I can’t trust just anyone to get what I need. There are specifications that are important and need to be met. If just one thing is off then the components will be useless to me. The functionality of the…”
“OK enough. I have no idea what you’re talking about but fine. Take some of my security with you.”
“Why?” he dared to ask. She had sometimes made that request, but often he would be allowed to leave on his own. Most of the time he didn’t care, but extra people would make things more complicated.
“Because I must protect my best asset.” She grinned. Leaning over on tip toes she gave him a kiss on the cheek and patted it with her hand. “And because I care about you.” Her words were sweet but meaningless. The carrot after the stick. Perhaps if his mother had learned that particular technique, Saeyoung might not have run away.
“Fine, but I will leave them behind if they get in my way.”
“Of course, hurry back, I’ll miss you.” She nodded to two of her men who peeled off from the rest and stood next to Saeran. He turned on his heels and continued down the hallway. Great, now he had to deal with these two nitwits.
They were silent as they all got in the car, Saeran in the back, using them as chauffers. He gave them the address of where he wanted to go. In the back seat he took out his jammer and turned it on. The last thing he wanted was for them to be able to contact Rika, or anyone else at the compound.
“Are you sure this is the right address?” the driver asked.
“Positive, just park outside the garage.” The man put the car in park but was still dubious. The two men looked at each other, unsure what to do. Saeran opened the door and stepped out, before he closed it he threw a canister of sleeping gas into the back seat and walked around towards the front door. The two men started coughing, holding their hands over their mouths and noses attempting to stop breathing in the gas. They yanked on the door handles in desperation with their free hand but Saeran had overridden the electric locks. One man began to hit the window with his elbow to no avail. By the time the driver thought of taking out his gun and shooting the window it was too late.
Seven watched his security camera. An alarm had sounded as soon as the car had turned onto his long driveway. At first he had assumed it was Vanderwood, but he didn’t recognize the car. There appeared to be three people in it, two men in front, and someone in the back. He watched as the car parked and someone got out of the back seat and stood fascinated by what happened next. There was nothing he could do about the men in the car, he didn’t even know who they were, but the scene made it plain that the third person was not to be taken lightly. His cameras followed the man as he walked around to the front door. He looked up, as if he knew someone was watching.
Seven gasped and dropped the PhDPepper he had been holding. The man just stood there, not even attempting to knock on the door. Was this a joke? It wasn’t possible. It couldn’t be! This man had white hair with pink tips and green eyes. Hair could be dyed of course, and there was such a thing as colored contacts. He shook his head in disbelief. If it was him, how had he found Seven? He shouldn’t be here, he should be living a different life. He grabbed the gun holstered beneath his desk and held it at his side on his way to the front door. Once he was in front of it, he hesitated. What if this was a trick? But what if it wasn’t? he opened the door before her could change his mind.
The man met his gaze, something warry and strained in his eyes. They didn’t look like contacts.
“Close your eyes! Stop looking at me!” Saeran berated himself as those damned amethyst eyes watched him in terror. He should have left this one alone, but he’d become obsessed. Changed his pattern. Convinced himself that he was justified in taking him. But he clearly saw now that his infatuation with this one had nothing to do with his other proclivity.
Most people had secrets, and many of those secrets were evil. Evil enough to kill them for. It was easy to extricate them from his prey. Usually he already knew what that secret was, though there had been times when he’d gone with his intuition before verifying. His intuition was always right.
He didn’t listen to it in this instance. He’d grabbed the prey with considerable ease, but things had gone horribly wrong. He’d found nothing to justify killing him. In fact, Yoosung Kim’s history was pristine and kind of boring. Plus he wouldn’t stop looking at him with those damned eyes!
Saeran turned away from the man on the table. He’d tied him down and gagged him but couldn’t bring himself to cover his eyes. His chest was exposed, and it would be an easy thing to slide his thin blade through his ribcage and puncture his heart. There was a muffled sound coming from behind him and he turned towards the man. Those eyes penetrated him again. As if they could pierce through to his dark soul and shine a light on it. It made his skin crawl.
“I said stop looking at me!” he screamed in Yoosung’s face. The blonde closed his eyes, squeezing them tight, but only for a few seconds. He blinked rapidly and met Saeran’s gaze. Fear was what he expected, but that’s not what was reflected. Pity. Was that pity?
What he was trying to say was incoherrant through the cloth gag. With furrowed brows he slowly pulled down the gag. Yoosung licked his lips, never wavering in his focus.
“It’s OK.” He whispered. “Do it, please.” Saeran fell back as if slapped. He wanted to die? His eyes were sorrowful, pained, accepting of what was to come. That had never happened before. His victims always cried, wept, pleaded, promised to reform their evil ways. None had ever been ready to die, and had they been, Saeran would have gladly ushered them into that darkness. This was different. Yoosung was different. He didn’t deserve to die, he had never done anything wrong to anyone. The life he had lead for the past 21 years was free of any wrongdoing worse than perhaps arguing with his older sister.
“Why?” he moved closer, curious.
“It hurts to live.”
“Why?” he asked again more forcefully than before. Reaching out towards the dagger he took it in his grip so tight his knuckles turned white.
“I can’t live with this sadness anymore. I’ve thought about doing it myself, but I could never go through with it. Knowing what it would do to my family, to my friends. I don’t want them to feel any guilt for my decision.” He was calm, coherent.
“Why would they?” Saeran asked.
“Because they would blame themselves for not seeing how depressed I was. For not believing me when I questioned the information I was given.”
“You mean about your cousin?”
“How…how did you know about that?”
“I know a lot about you Yoosung Kim. I’ve been watching you.”
“Oh…well…yes…I don’t believe she killed herself like V said she did.”
“Ah, then that’s why you would prefer your death was at my hands? So that your friends and family will have nothing to question. Simply assume you were in the wrong place at the wrong time, am I right?”
Yoosung began to cry, unable to say anything, he simply nodded.
“I understand. But I’m afraid I can’t do that.” He set the dagger down and turned his back to the man.
“What? Why? Isn’t that why you kidnapped me? Do it! DO IT! YOU COWARD!”
Those words should have gotten a rise out of him, maybe even done what Yoosung wanted him to do without thinking. But he’d made up his mind. He could no more kill Yoosung than he could kill a cat. What to do then? He’d seen his face, he could go to the authorities. Would he though? There were things Saeran knew about him now that perhaps the blonde would not want known by anyone else. It was slim chance to hold on to, but it was a chance.
“No. You have too much life to live and you deserve to have it.”
Yoosung sobbed, knowing that his hope was finally dashed. Saeran untied him and helped him to sit up.
“I’m going to blindfold you and take you somewhere safe.” Yoosung nodded, uncaring what was about to happen. Saeran caressed his cheek, running his thumb across his bottom lip. “I will watch over you.” He whispered and kissed the side of his mouth.
My name is Yoosung Kim. I died when I was 18 years old. Walking home from school I ran into a classmate who had been bullying me since grade school. I knew he was going to hurt me, I was ready for it, resigned to it. Sure enough he dragged me into an alley and started punching me. I dropped to the ground and tried to protect my head. This only made him angrier and he started stomping on it. I felt my eardrum burst; it was the most excruciating pain I’d ever felt. Then everything stopped. It wasn’t gradual, I didn’t see my entire life flash before my eyes. Suddenly, there was nothing. Like someone turned a switch from on to off. It was over.
Until it wasn’t. I woke up hours later, still splayed out in a dirty alleyway. I waited to feel the pain of my body but it never came. I sat up and held my head, but although there was dried blood in my hair, there didn’t seem to be any wounds. None. I checked myself as much as I could. My clothes were dirty and ripped, but the skin beneath was smooth, unbroken. I stood hesitantly, but my legs worked just fine. I felt fine. In fact, I felt better than I had ever felt in my life. I walked home, unaware of anything or anyone around me, trying to get my head around the fact that I had died. Was this the afterlife? Was I a ghost? But no, people reacted to me, walking around me, grumbling when I didn’t move out of their way. Someone even bumped into me. I was alive, by some miracle.
I went back home and continued to live my life. The bully wasn’t at school the next day, or the day after that, he didn’t show up until almost two weeks later and when he saw me, his face went pale. He left and I never saw him again. I tried to pretend everything was normal, but I was no longer me. There was me before death, and me after death. I experimented. I cut myself, superficially at first and watched in fascination as the skin knit itself back together almost instantly. I cut deeper and deeper, eventually getting to the bone. I healed from all of it. The deeper the cut, the longer it took to heal, but it was still fast. I wondered if I would heal from a broken bone. I still feel pain, and I have never been able to actually try that.
I started to feel alone. I had this big secret that even if I shared it, wouldn’t be believed. I wasn’t sure I believed it either. A month after death I began to notice a van following me. It wasn’t subtle. Bright orange with blacked out windows. I should have been scared, but I’d already died, and it didn’t stick, what else could anyone do to me? They finally stopped and a tall skinny boy about 20 years old stepped out of the back and walked towards me.
He waved at me but said nothing. The driver got out and joined us. He was shorter but still taller than me, with a little more meat on his bones. I was poised to turn and run if I felt I needed to but I’m glad I stayed. I learned a lot. I learned I wasn’t alone. The tall skinny boy is Bart, he is capable of talking, but hasn’t since his own death. Barney is the other boy, and he talks enough for them both. They explained what had happened to me. There is a dormant gene within some people that most never know is there. If however they die during adolescence, the gene is activated and makes them immortal. This is what happened to me. I wondered how they knew about me. I learned that day that sometimes people gain abilities because of this gene. Bart was telepathic and Barney could sense when someone with the gene was close to death, though he had to be close. He had felt my death and they had made their way towards me but I was already gone by the time they got there.
He could no longer feel me since I had died already, so they began to investigate the area and figured out I had been the one.
It’s been three years. I have entered University and am trying to become a doctor so I can study this gene. At the one year anniversary of my death I finally manifested an ability. I can see disease, and I can remove it. Which as a doctor I can certainly utilize, but I have yet to figure out how to do it without anyone finding out. It’s draining however, and I cannot use it indefinitely. I’ve tried to heal regular wounds, cuts, scrapes, headaches, but I am unable to do so. Cancer however, I can eradicate in a few minutes.
Since meeting Bart and Barney, we have unfortunately inducted one more immortal. MC. She was only 17 when she was killed in a much more brutal way than I was. The boy she loved raped her. Then murdered her without even realizing it. She dies slowly and in pain as he satisfied himself in her, letting his two other friends take a turn as well. We found her in the alley, covered in garbage. She is still recovering, unwilling to go back home. The trauma is going to take her a long time to heal through. And there is the question of what should we do about her attackers? We will take our queues from her, once she is able to think more clearly.
There is one other thing of note. I have met someone. Someone who is hard on the surface but soft underneath. I hadn’t meant to fall for anyone, but I tripped and fell hard. He makes me smile, and he makes me happy. But how do I tell him what I am? Will I lose him if I do? I can prove it now. Show him how different I am. I can’t continue with him if I am unwilling to let him know. It’s a huge secret. I will tell him. Because I am in love with Saeran Choi.
It started when he was five years old and seemed quite natural. So natural that he never told anyone about it. He had been sitting in the garden behind his home when he watched as a hawk swooped down and captured a mouse. The bird rose back into the air. Jumin felt sorry for the mouse, he threw up his hand and screamed “Stop!”. The bird did, hovering in midair. He had been a little surprised, though he had felt certain that of course he would be able to help the mouse. He closed his fist and shouted, “Drop!” and the bird did, dropping the mouse who safely scampered away.
“Go on now.” He shooed the bird away and it readily obeyed him, though it tossed back an irritated squawk. He’d never seen anyone else do these things, but those around him always fawned all over him and told him how special he was, this must be why they thought so.
As he grew older, he understood that the reason he was treated the way he was was because of his father, and not his ability to do things differently from other people. The only other person who knew what he was capable was, was his best friend V. V suggested he keep it to himself as well.
“There are people who will try and use you because of it.” He had said. Although he encouraged Jumin to keep his ability from others, he had no compunctions with asking Jumin to do some “abracadabra” to play all kinds of pranks on other students. Jumin felt this was juvenile, but it made his friend happy, so he complied.
Once Jumin took the office of Director of C&R and V was often away on his numerous trips, Jumin’s magic dwindled. There were the occasional instances when he would use it out of habit, or if an accident occurred, otherwise, he hardly ever used it. If anyone saw these instances, they simply assumed they were seeing things and pushed it aside. Obviously, the director of C&R Jumin Han wasn’t casting spells.
But she wasn’t anyone ordinary. Lillie studied Jumin, his mannerisms, his idiosyncrasies, and paid attention to what he paid close attention to. She saw, on more than one occasion what he was capable of. He never seemed to be aware of it either. How the spoon in his tea swirled around the cup on its own. How a lamp moved out of his way before he bumped into it. How his favorite pen appeared from nowhere when he wanted it or needed it. She wondered how a man such as Jumin, didn’t use his gift to his advantage. But of course he wouldn’t, he was far too honest for that. She was sure it had never even crossed his mind to do so.
It had been a joy to get to know all of the RFA members as the newest party coordinator, but it had been a special privilege to get to know Jumin Han. He was nothing like she had read about in the magazines. He was certainly not humble, but his belief in his own ability was justified. He did not rely on his money, or power, though he readily used it for good. She wasn’t surprised when she realized she had fallen in love with the enigmatic busnissman. She watched as he danced with a donor, a small smile on his face, though she could tell he would rather be doing his taxes instead.
She giggled and his eyes met hers, an arched brow making an appearance. She arched her own brown and did a small curtsey in his direction. When the music was over, he bowed before the flustered elderly woman and kissed the back of her hand. She walked away happy.
“And what, pray tell, is so funny?” he asked as he took his place next to her.
“Nothing, I was just wondering.”
“Oh? Wondering what exactly?”
“Why you don’t just disappear when you want to.”
“That would be inappropriate, and disrespectful to all who have come to help out our charities.”
“That’s not what I mean.” She gazed at him intensely.
“Then what do you mean?” he asked, eyebrows furrowed, he had a suspicion he knew already.
“Where’s your pen?” she asked instead.
“My pen?” he was more confused than ever.
“Yes, your favorite pen, the diamond encrusted one that your father gave you.”
“Oh, I left that on my desk of course.” He stood straighter, perhaps he had been wrong, she knew nothing.
“Is that so? Are you sure?”
“Of course I’m sure. I used it to sign the checks that needed to go out this month and set it on the blotter.”
“Hmm, so, if you checked your inside coat pocket it wouldn’t be in there?”
“Why would it be in there?” he looked at her like she was crazy. She simply giggled again.
“Just check.”
Shaking his head he decided to humor her and slipped his hand into his inside pocket, his fingers came across a cylindrical object with rough edges. He pulled it out. His pen.
“How…how did you do that?” he asked.
“I didn’t, you did.”
“What?”
“You did, just like you always do when you think about your pen…there it is…” she left it hanging as she turned and walked away with a smile. She knew. Had he always been so careless? How long had she known? Did it matter? Had she told anyone else? Would they believe her anyway?
“Why would anyone want to get rid of me?” Zen complained. “Look at me, I’m gorgeous!” he ran his fingers through his hair as he stared at himself in the mirror. Thankfully, he was still able to see himself. The world would never be so cruel as to forbid him to ever view himself again.
“There!” a beam of green light passed an inch from his beautiful face. Saeyoung scowled having missed him again.
“Stop it! Don’t you remember who I am?” he screamed at them, but they didn’t seem to hear him.
“I told you you should get new glasses! Your aim is way off!” Saeran complained as he trained his own beam at the ghost and pulled the trigger.
Zen pushed through the wall with a resigned sigh. Maybe he could get through to Jaehee instead. He floated down the building to the first floor and went through the wall back inside. It was relatively empty but the few people in the lobby took note of him and began to scream. Zen slumped his shoulders, he’d never had people run away from him like this, had he really changed that much? Was he no longer beautiful? But no, that couldn’t be it, he’d seen his reflection, he was still stunning, even dead.
“What are you two doing up there? The ghost is in the lobby!” Jaehee said out loud, she much be wearing an earbud and communicating with the twins. He couldn’t hear their response, but he didn’t need to. There was very little time, what could he do to show Jaehee who he was before they annihilated him.
A lightbulb when on over his head and he began to do the choreography from his last movie. Jaehee had helped him get the timing and rhythm down so she was definitely familiar with the moves. Jaehee had begun to back up away from him but had not run like the others. She didn’t appear to have a weapon on her, which was good because Zen was out of options at the moment, unless he wanted to just leave.
He was in the middle of his routine when he noticed that Jaehee’s body language had changed.
“What the hell?” she uttered. Good, it was working, she was questioning.
“Come on Jaehee, it’s me! You know me!” he kept up the routine and watched as her eyes blinked rapidly, her head shaking in disbelief.
“No…it…it can’t be.”
The elevators opened up behind him and he increased his pleading though he knew she couldn’t hear him.
“Oh my God!” Jaehee’s hands covered her mouth as her eyes widened in understanding. “STOP!” she ran towards the twins, passing within inches of Zen. She pushed their weapons down and turned to face the ghost.
“What the hell?” Saeran said, still trying to raise his weapon, he could clearly see the ghost and it was not moving.
“It’s him. It’s Zen.” Jaehee said, leaving the twins stunned.
“How do you know? His form is just vaguely human shaped.” Saeyoung asked, conflicted on what to do.
“It’s him, I can see him clearly now. Oh Zen!” she walked towards him. “What happened to you was so unfair, you had so many years ahead of you.” Zen could only agree as he nodded. Had he been able to, he would be shedding tears now.
“Well…fuck.” Saeran dropped the weapon by his leg, “What do we do now? I don’t want to vaporize Zen, but…he can’t stay here.”
“I can talk to Mr. Han, maybe we can accommodate Zen in some way.” Jaehee suggested. Zen rolled his eyes. He’d come here so he could haunt the CEO in line. It was the only thing he could think of that might bring him some happiness and pleasure in the afterlife, things were boring on this side. But what fun would it be if Jumin Han allowed him to stay? He gritted his teeth.
“I don’t think he liked that.” Saeyoung laughed, noting the expression on the ghost’s face. “Wait! I can see him clearly now too!”
“Me too.” Saeran said. Zen smiled at them all. Thankful that at least his friends recognized him. “I’m so sorry about what happened to you Zen.”
Zen nodded, grateful for the commiseration. The accident had happened so fast it was over in a matter of seconds. There was very little left of his motorcycle and it was a miracle he had not died instantly, unfortunately, he had gone through a grueling few days before his brain finally gave out. He hovered above his hospital bed and watched as the doctors tried everything they could to bring him back. He felt the pull of it but didn’t surrender, deciding he was happy to end where he was. He was a success, and you know what they said, the good always die young. He would remain forever young in the eyes of his fans; it wasn’t so bad.
He had however not considered what his death would do to his friends. His funeral was devastating to witness, though even Jumin Han said nice things about him. The way the three were now looking at him began to make him uncomfortable, he didn’t want them to be sad.
“What are you waiting for? It’s right there, get rid of it so my employees can get back to work.” Jumin walked up to the three surrounding the ghost.
“Mr. Han, they can’t…it’s…it’s Zen.” Jaehee said.
“What nonsense, it’s just another ghost, get rid of it! That’s what I’m paying you for isn’t it?” Zen clenched his jaw. “Just like usual, trust fund kid, only thinking about yourself.” All four turned towards Zen, mouths gaping open.
“Did…I…” Jaehee couldn’t finish her sentence.
“Wait, did you hear me?” Zen asked. The four looked at each other, then back to him and all nodded. “Well isn’t that something. Now I can really have fun.” He grinned and winked at Jumin.
“Great.” Jumin said.
“Do you still want us to uh…vaporize him?” Saeyoung asked, knowing full well what the answer was going to be.
“Of course not! Assistant Kang would probably quit on me if I allowed that. If you’re going to hang around here from now on, maybe I should have more mirrors installed.” Jumin huffed and walked away. Zen grimaced, but he had to admit, there was a lack of reflective surfaces.
“Welcome to C&R Zen.” Saeyoung laughed. Zen felt a sudden rush of warmth. Ok, he was dead, but it wasn’t all bad. And he had eternity to torment Jumin and hang out with his biggest fan. Not such a bad after life after all.
“Come on!” Saeran shouted, pulling Yoosung behind him. They ran through the cemetery, zigging and zagging around the tombstones and mausoleums. Yoosung panted behind him, he was trying to keep up, but was much slower than Saeran.
“I…I…ca…” Yoosung was out of breath.
“Stop talking and just run!” Saeran looked over his shoulder and picked up his pace, dragging Yoosung along now. He veered left but Yoosung ran into the tombstone Saeran had just avoided and flipped over it landing on his back on the grave.
“Fuck!” Yoosung’s hand slipped out of Saeran’s as he fell. “Get up!” Saeran stopped and bent over trying to get Yoosung back on his feet. Two hands erupted from the ground and grabbed Yoosung’s shoulders. Yoosung screamed and tried to get the rotting hands off him. A head pushed through the dirt and grass and gnashed its teeth towards Yoosung. Saeran couldn’t get the hands off Yoosung either so he pulled him out of his shirt instead. The ghoul shoved the shirt in its mouth. There was blood on Yoosung’s shoulder seeping through his T-shirt.
Saeran turned and ran, once more dragging Yoosung behind him.
“We’re not go…go…gonna…make it…” Saeran could hear the tears in Yoosung’s voice.
“Yes we are, don’t give up on me babe.” He wished desperately that he could stop and hold his boyfriend. To help him. To encourage him, but there was not time, he had to keep them both moving.
The sound that surrounded them grew louder, indistinct voices that now came from every side. The moon was not full and there was only a scattering of stars visible. The cemetery had no working lights, the darkness engulfing them. He felt the truth of Yoosung’s words in his heart, but he couldn’t give up. He had to recalculate, at the rate of the increase in volume around them, he figured that more and more ghouls had arisen. Too many for them to make it to the gates and get through to the other side. He wasn’t even sure that would assure safety. If they could wander on consecrated ground, how much easier would it be for these evil creatures to walk outside of it? A huge mausoleum came into view, the gate was open and Saeran veered to head straight for it. He slipped through the doorway pulling Yoosung behind him.
“What are you doing?” Yoosung panted, trying to catch his breath once they finally stopped moving. Saeran closed the gate with a loud clang and looked around. He took one of the braziers in the corner and shoved it through the handles. A soft scratching sound came from behind them, deeper into the mausoleum. They both stood up straight and turned around slowly. The tomb was barely visible but there was clearly some movement in the darkness. Yoosung backed up until his back hit the gate while Saeran grabbed on of the other braziers and used it as a weapon.
The scratching stopped but then came a soft flop, as of bare feet on the concrete. Soon enough the ghoul manifested into the meager light coming from the moon through the gate. It had been a woman, her long dark hair stringy, bald patches on her head. She looked down but they could see the glistening saliva as it fell from her eager mouth. Her arms raised, long fingers with curled fingernails stretching towards them.
Saeran planted his feet, ready to jab the brazier into the woman’s head as soon as she came into reaching distance. Yoosung screamed and it made Saeran turn towards him. Two ghouls had reached through the gate and were grabbing onto him, one was trying to bite his flesh. Yoosung struggled and moved too much for either to get a good grip and a bite, but it was only a matter of time.
“Duck!” Saeran commanded, without hesitation Yoosung dropped to the ground, his arms being pulled forcefully behind him. He screamed out in pain because of it, but also because of the ripping bite that one of the ghouls took out of his wrist.
Saeran jammed the brazier into that one’s head and pushed until it pierced what was left of the brain. He pulled the brazier out and stabbed him again and again until it fell to the ground, he turned to do the same to the other one when he was pulled back by the one inside. It grabbed his arms and dug its mouth into his neck. He screamed and dropped the brazier. He tried to pull its hair but it just came away from the scalp.
Yoosung was terrified as he saw the blood course down Saeran’s side. He fell on his back pulling away from the ghoul as much as possible, it was incredibly strong. He brought up his legs and began to kick at its face and arm, he was afraid it would do nothing but eventually it let go of him. Yoosung slid away from the gate and picked up the dropped brazier. He bashed at the ghoul’s face, praying he wouldn’t hit Saeran. There was pain in his wrist, but it wasn’t registering. The ghoul finally let go of Saeran and fell to the ground. Yoosung kept stabbing at it stomping until the head was nothing but a rotten, gooey mess. He threw the brazier down and went to help Saeran who was now sitting against the mausoleum wall, his hand covering his throat.
“Oh fuck! Saeran!” Yoosung pulled his T-shirt over his head and replaced Saeran’s hand with it against his neck. “Stay with me babe, don’t…oh god! Please…” the tears flowed freely now, fear surrounding him like a cocoon. Saeran smiled at him and lifted his bloody hand to slip Yoosung’s hair away from his eyes and tuck it behind his ear. His eyes were closing, his body slipping. “NO!” Yoosung pulled Saeran onto his lap and he held him, rocking them both back and forth.
They just had to survive the night. Once the sun was up, someone would come looking for them.“Just hang on. I’ve got you. Don’t leave me.”
Saeran sat against the tree watching the clouds float by. Yoosung was by his side, their hands intertwined, his head on his shoulder. It was a lazy afternoon, and they were enjoying the cool breeze in the air.
“Remember ice cream?” Yoosung sighed.
“Don’t remind me, of course I remember ice cream. It’s what I miss the most.” The coolness as it touched his tongue, the sweetness that infused his mouth. There was nothing like that here and he mourned the loss.
“I know, I was just thinking how jealous I always was that you could eat so many sweets and not gain an ounce while I just looked at a piece of cake and gained five pounds.” Yoosung exhaled.
Saeran laughed, “I guess you don’t have to worry about that anymore huh?”
“Yeah, be careful what you wish for…” Yoosung stated.
“You just might get it.” Saeran finished.
They commiserated. It was sad to think of their old lives, but there was peace here and they were among friends. In fact, they could see Jumin walking up the hill towards them even now.
“It’s almost time, you should get down to the buildings.” He stated, though it was a steep climb, the businessman showed no signs of sweat on him.
“Is that why you came all the way up here?” Saeran asked as he stood and helped Yoosung up as well.
“No, it’s a beautiful day and since there was nothing else that required my attention, I decided to take a long walk. Saeyoung and MC are already at their place.”
“Of course they are, it’s exhausting trying to keep up with them. Although, I’d rather deal with them than Zen!” even Jumin’s stoic visage showed a smirk. Zen never missed a chance to be dramatic.
They walked down together, Yoosung stopping a few times to pick some wildflowers that he insisted on placing in Saeran’s hair. He scowled in disappointment whenever one of the flowers would disappear, but it didn’t deter him from continuing to do it. Saeran allowed his boyfriend to continue to use him in this diversionary fashion, it hurt nothing and made him relatively happy. If only he could give him something more permanent.
Arriving on their street Saeran kissed Yoosung on the forehead and headed towards the ice cream shop, Yoosung made his way to the flower shop and Jumin to the tallest building, which had once been a subsidiary of C&R. Jaehee met him in the lobby and they took their places behind a desk to wait.
Further down the street Saeyoung and MC stayed busy in the toy shop, Saeyoung tinkering with a new toy he knew he would never finish while MC absently swept, her eyes distant and wistful.
“What do you think our children would look like?” she asked.
Saeyoung stopped working and sat up straighter, watching his beautiful wife. He smiled, contemplateing that very thing. “If it was a girl, as beautiful as you.” He stated.
“No, I think they would have your hair and freckles, that would be adorable. I bet you were the cutest little boy.” She smiled. The thought made Saeyoung sad, he never felt cute, adorable, loved as a child.
“Wouldn’t matter what they looked like. They would be loved unconditionally.” He said. MC set the broom against the wall and kissed the top of her husband’s head.
“You’re right, that’s all that matters.”
Across the street in the theater Zen stood on stage in full costume, his face painted white, eyes as crimson as blood, his silver cape almost the same color as his hair. He ran through his lines and danced the same dance he had perfected now for so many years.
They waited. Waited for the bus full of people who came almost every day to walk and be terrified by their ghost town. They didn’t have to participate of course, not every spirit that resided in the town did. Some pleaded for help, some, angry at their lot attempted to harm the living breathing humans that walked through the streets. Others, like the RFA members, tried to give those alive an experience they would never forget. It was fun and kept them energized. Not all would be able to see them, most adults could never fathom such a rich spiritual world, and those that did see them were not believed. Mostly it was the children whose minds were still open to the possibility possessed the necessary sight.
Saeran would try and give them ice cream, winking at them and putting a finger against his mouth in a shushing motion. Saeyoung and MC would play with them, showing off the myriad of toys on the shelf. Yoosung would place flowers in their unaware parents’ hair and dance around them, making the children giggle at the antics. Jumin and Jaehee would pretend not to see the humans, passing through them and sometimes sitting on them. They would argue about cat projects, Jumin acting like a jerk and tossing papers around while Jaehee ran around trying to pick them up. The antics were comical enough for the children to enjoy, while terrifying any adult who could see. Finally, Zen, who had the strongest aura of them all, would spellbound his audience with his acting, even those adults who could not see, could feel his presence, the emotions he was trying to convey leaching into their skin making the hair on the back of their necks stand on end.
It was a peaceful existence, but it was a dead one. Perhaps one day they would tire of this playacting. Or grow angry with it. As it was now, they had each other, it was all they could ask for.
Jaehee sat on her bed, warm blankets tucked around her. Spiced wine was on her nightstand and a bowl of popcorn on her lap. She watched The Promiscuous Jalapeno Topping. Zen’s plays always relaxed her. There had been one stressful second where she thought Jumin was going to make her take care of Elizabeth 3rd. He had concluded that it would be better for the feline to stay with him and had taken her on his business trip. With them both gone for a few days, her life would be a little easier. There was still a lot of work to do, especially since she would need to take over the director’s duties while he was gone, but she wouldn’t need to worry about any cat projects popping up.
She sighed as she took another handful of popcorn and watched Zen’s incredible performance. The story line was awful, even so, Zen was able to raise it to an acceptable level. There was a coppery taste in her mouth and she cringed from it. She looked down and saw blood droplets on the popcorn. With a gasp she raised her hand to her nose, Her fingers came away bloody. She had been so focused on Zen’s acting that she hadn’t even noticed the flow coming from her nose.
She stood and made her way to the bathroom, pinching her nose as she went. Flipping on the lights she saw her image in the mirror, her skin was pale, her brown eyes wide with fright. She was scared, but why? It was a simple nosebleed, nothing she hadn’t had before. Nothing most people hadn’t experienced in their lives. Nevertheless, there was dread spreading from the pit of her stomach. She tried to push it away as she cleaned herself up.
She continued to pinch her nose, counting in her head. She knew enough not to tilt her head back but couldn’t remember exactly why that was bad. After a few minutes she checked to see if her nose was still bleeding. As soon as she let go, it was like turning on a water faucet. Blood poured out.
“Oh my God!” she pinched the nose again but was now in a panic. Her large eyes blinked in confusion and fear as she stared at her reflection. This was crazy, should she go to the emergency room? But for what? A nosebleed? As she contemplated, she felt a wetness under her eyes. Was she crying? Focusing on the mirror she was even more shocked to see blood flowing from her eyes. It was just a trickle, tears of blood, but as she watched in horror, the droplets became thicker, creating streaks down her face.
Her breath caught in her throat, fear shivering through her body. She blinked and her eyelids felt like sandpaper across her eyes. With a scream she stepped back, hitting the wall and falling to the floor. Her hands braced her and now the nosebleed flowed freely. She looked down at her white pajama top where the blood soaked into it into a macabre inkblot. Her screams rose in pitch and horror. A crimson shade filtered her vision.
A knock sounded, as if a million miles away. Someone shouted but she couldn’t understand the words. She flopped to her belly and began to crawl, her legs unable to hold her up. Her body felt as if it weighed a thousand pounds. Someone was at her door, someone that could help her. Blood saturated her eyes blinding her. Terror took over her mind as she turned, scratching at her face and shrieked.
“So, you don’t have the uncontrollable urge to howl at the moon when it’s full?” Yoosung teased.
“Ha ha, very funny.” Saeran rolled his eyes.
“Oh, I don’t know, I think I’d like to see that.” Yoosung said.
“Why don’t you go badger Saeyoung about it then.” Saeran said.
Yoosung sat at the kitchen table and placed a bowl of ice cream in front of Saeran.
“Just one?” Saeran arched his brow.
“Yes, one, just for you.” Yoosung smiled.
“I know, but you always eat at least half of it when you don’t get your own.” Saeran complained.
“Don’t be like that, we’re mated, doesn’t that mean we share everything?” Yoosung took Saeran’s spoon and scooped up a large portion of the mint chocolate chip ice cream and staring right into Saeran’s green eyes as he entered it into his mouth.
“Oh oh oh!” The brain freeze was intense, and he almost spit the ice cream out.
“Serves you right.” Saeran laughed and yanked the spoon out of Yoosung’s grasp.
“You’re so mean.” Yoosung almost spat the ice cream from his mouth.
“What’s going on here?” Saeyoung entered the kitchen and took Saeran’s full spoon and ate the ice cream.
Saeran growled and took the spoon back, circling his other arm around his bowl of ice cream. Saeyoung simply chuckled.
“I was just teasing Saeran about the myth that wolves howl at the moon when it’s full.” Yoosung was once more cheerful.
“Sounds fun! We should do it! The full moon is up, come on Saeran!” Saeyoung jumped up and down as MC walked in to her husband’s antics.
“What has you so excited?” she laughed as he took her in his arms and twirled her around.
“We’re going out to howl at the moon!” He chanted. Yoosung joined them and Saeran simply shook his head.
“Have fun with that, I think I’ll get more ice cream.” Saeran stood and started towards the freezer. Yoosung grabbed his arm and pulled him into the circle.
“Come on Saeran! Let me see your beautiful shagginess howling at the moon! I bet the sound will be deafening.”
“Of course it would be, that doesn’t mean I want to do it.” Saeran protested, but Yoosung could see he was relenting. Saeran enjoyed howling, running in the night, the wind racing around him feeling free from every responsibility.
“Come on.” The three pleaded and Saeran relented with another roll of his eyes.
“Fine…” he set the bowl down and began to transform without taking his clothes off first, “Last one to the cliff is a rotten egg.” He smirked as his mouth elongated and the fur grew from his pores. Dropping down to all fours he nipped at Yoosung who eagerly jumped on Saeran’s back, they took off through the back door which they normally lest open just for this purpose.
“NO FAIR!” Saeyoung complained and began to change himself. MC straddled across his back and they shot out after Saeran and Yoosung. Running through the woods they yelped and nipped at each other, MC and Yoosung laughing as they held on tight. The twins howled and howled as the moon rose higher and higher.
“I don’t like this.” Saeran held his brother’s hand as they walked through the deserted house.
“I know Saeran, but we have to be quiet OK?” Saeyoung tried to stay calm for his brother, but his own heart was pounding straight through his chest. Their bare feet made no noise as they plodded along the hallway, the cold wooden floor beneath them.
Saeran began to sob silently and Saeyoung pulled him closer. “It’s going to be OK. You don’t have to be scared.”
“What if she finds us? She’s going to hurt us.” His body began to tremble.
“She won’t find us.”
“She always finds us.”
Saeyoung couldn’t deny that statement, they’d tried to run away at least ten times in their short lives, and somehow, she had always managed to know where they were hiding. This time Saeyoung felt sure she wouldn’t be able to track them, unless she had them chipped, which he wouldn’t put past her. This had to work. Saeran wouldn’t survive another year at the rate their mother had been beating him. Their biggest threat was Saeran himself. He was still weak and hurt. He was pretty sure Saeran’s wrist was fractured.
The night before their mother had been in a drunken rage. Saeyoung had been out, getting more alcohol for her. When he had returned, he’d found Saeran on the floor of their bedroom, bloody and bruised. He hadn’t even been crying, used to this treatment as he was.
“Come on Saeran, let’s find a room and get some sleep.”
“I’m not tired. I’m too scared to sleep. This place is creepy, I don’t like it here.” Saeran held his hand to his chest but let Saeyoung guide him further.
“I know, but I don’t think she would come looking for us here. Nobody comes in here.”
“Because it’s haunted.”
“That’s what they say, but it’s nonsense, silly superstition.”
“Feels haunted.” Saeran said, his voice barely audible even in the silence of the deep night.
Saeyoung opened a door into what he assumed used to be a bedroom. There was a dresser with missing drawers and a single nightstand.
“Here. We’ll stay in here for tonight.” Saeyoung settled Saeran into a corner and took off his backpack pulling out a small blanket. He shoved himself as close to Saeran as he could and settled the threadbare blanket over them both. Tomorrow he would try and find help for Saeran. He put his arm around his little brother and pulled him close. It wasn’t going to be comfortable, but it was all they had. Regardless of his earlier assertion, Saeran was soon fast asleep, head on Saeyoung’s shoulder.
Although he meant to stay awake and alert throughout the night, in order to protect his little brother, Saeyoung was soon deep in slumber as well.
“Children.” The woman whispered. Her flowing white gown flittered around her as if caught in a windstorm of which there was no sign. She was indistinct and transparent.
“Kill them and be done with it.” The man at her side smirked and turned away, he loathed children.
“Nonsense, they simply need to rest. Look, that one is hurt.” There was concern in her voice.
“Who cares.”
“They’ve suffered so much.”
“All the more reason to kill them and put them out of their misery.”
“Perhaps you’re right, and if they did die here, they could stay forever. I could take care of them.” The woman was suddenly rather excited. The man however, suddenly not so enthusiastic about murdering the children.
Saeyoung sprang to his feet, amber eyes wide, red hair in disarray. He pulled a knife from his pocket and held it before him.
“Stand back!” he screamed. Saeran jerked awake at the sudden movement of his brother and shrank against the wall as he saw what stood before him.
“Do not worry my child. Release is at hand. You need not suffer any longer.” The woman’s jaw unhinged, blood dripping from her mouth, rotting teeth visible along with a blackened and thick tongue. Saeran began to weep in terror. Saeyoung’s bladder let loose but he was beyond feeling. He reached behind him and caught Saeran’s shirt. He did his best to pull him up and stand in front of him.
“Oh bloody hell woman move!” the man shoved his face an inch from Saeyoung’s, the skin on half his face sliding off, one eye dangling and looking downwards. He grinned grotesquely and said, “Boo!”
The twins screamed and Saeyoung pulled Saeran behind him, running straight through both apparitions and out into the night.
It happened slowly. The world taking too long to react. To implement the necessary safeguards. Leaders politicizing and minimizing the nature of the disease if that’s what it was. It was an inconvenient truth.
When C&R employees began getting sick, entire sections calling out of wearing masks, looking as if they just crawled out of bed, Jumin tasked his medical R&C department to try and figure out what was happening. The government was putting a positive spin on things, but what they were seeing daily did not correlate to that spin. Unfortunately, it was too late. Over 80% of the employees were infected and changing.
Saeyoung begged the RFA members to quarantine in his bunker. At first it was a joke, but as the world burned, it was no longer laughable. Jumin did what he could for those still healthy, insisting they find some place to ride it out. His father fell to the disease and before Jumin’s eyes, he rose after he took his last breath. The hardest thing Jumin had ever done was to put a bullet into his father’s head.
Yoosung was the first person to move into the bunker, at Saeran’s insistence. In the beginning, he felt bad that he was missing classes, but Saeran was paranoid and he figured he could make them up next semester. He was glad he’d listened as the news grew worse for those outside.
Zen came next, his bags packed, eyes wide with fright as he’d had to decapitate his neighbor with a kitchen knife. Once settled in and able to clearly think again, he convinced Jaehee to join them, though she was already on her way, as Jumin called her and told her what had happened with his father.
Jumin was reluctant to join them, as he was afraid he was infected and might spread it to the others. Saeyoung and MC threatened to go out and drag him back if he didn’t show up within the hour. Jumin relented. Even he couldn’t deny it was the best place for them all. Saeyoung was set up for any contingency. He gathered cash and valuables in case it would be needed afterwards, if there ever was an afterwards.
As it turned out, none of the members had been infected, though Yoosung’s family had refused to move, preferring to stay put. Communications were still available, the power continuing to come even though most people who were still alive were no longer paying anyone to keep the lights on. Saeyoung said it would not last forever and to be prepared for when the grid finally went down.
MC tried to contact her family in the States with no success. She didn’t know if her parents and brother were alive or dead…or undead at this point. There were still some reports over the airwaves but those were slowly dying as well. Saeyoung’s security cameras would catch a wandering undead as they passed by them, none appearing to care about the outside of the bunker. Fewer and fewer people ventured outdoors.
The zombies were not of the ravenous brain eating variety, though they would attack anything alive that came near them. They were slow but there also appeared to be some cognitive ability in them. Not enough to ensure their survival, however.
The RFA lived day to day, existing, surviving, and watching.
“Eye of newt eye of newt eye of newt. Where is the eye of newt?” Yoosung ran his gaze across the jars on the shelf. Ah, there. Grabbing it his fingers slipped around the glass and it fell on the floor shattering instantly. The smell hit him and he gagged, running towards the bathroom, squishing eye of newt in his wake.
Finished emptying his stomach he flushed the toilet and rinsed out his mouth. He stared at himself in the mirror, his large amethyst eyes wide with disappointment. Why did he even bother at this point? He wasn’t a good witch, more often than not his spells went awry. And if he was honest with himself, he didn’t have an evil bone in his body! He didn’t want to curse anyone. He didn’t want to defeat his enemies. He wasn’t even sure he had any enemies to defeat. He didn’t take pleasure in hurting people, he just wasn’t a good witch!
Sighing he shook his head and prepared to clean up his mess. It took him a good long while, as the smell kept him going back to the bathroom often. Why were so many spell ingredients so disgusting? Once he was done he threw the towels into the bathtub and decided to take a walk. The moon was high and the air was cool, it would help clear his head. Before he left he opened a window, hoping the smell would also be cleared out by the time he returned.
Wrangling his bicycle out of the garage he jumped on and began to pedal. The park wasn’t far and he enjoyed walking the hiking trails there. There was nobody out, it felt as if he had the earth all to himself. Once he made it to the park he dropped his bike and took trail 1, it was the longest and he felt as if he didn’t want to go home anytime soon. The coven would ask if he’d brewed the potion and expect to see it. Maybe he could just lose himself in the woods and disappear.
The climb was bracing and the physical exertion helped keep his mind occupied. At the top he paused and took in the view. There were few lights below, the world slept and only he was awake to witness its slumber. Ready to head back down he noticed the path he was on actually continued further into the woods. He’d never seen the trail before, it was overgrown, but seemed to have been recently disturbed. There were broken branches and trodden underbrush. Curious, and still ambivilant about returning to his life, he stepped onto the newly discovered path. He had to push limbs aside for much of the way, wondering if he shouldn’t just return. However, he was glad he had continued as the path opened up to a large clearing, the full moon overhead, beginning to decline.
In the center there was a large stone table. It appeared to be made out of a boulder. A man stood beside it, a large cauldron on the ground above a roaring fire. As he watched, fascinated, the man reached towards the table, picked up a pot, took the lid off and pinched out some powder, he then sprinkled it into the brew. Without realizing what he was doing, Yoosung began to walk towards the man, who obviously was another witch.
As he drew closer, the man raised his head and pierced him with his golden gaze. The fire made his eyes look ablaze.
“Who are you?” he questioned. He came around the cauldron and stood before Yoosung. The man was about his own age, similar height, but with paler skin, freckles and red hair.
“I…uh…”
“What are you doing here? How did you know I was here? Answer me!” the man pressed.
“I didn’t! I was just…I found the trail and followed it, I didn’t know. I don’t know who you are I swear, but it’s OK, I’m a witch too.” Yoosung tried to calm the man down.
“A witch?” the man backed away from Yoosung and began casting.
“Wait!” Yoosung was unable to get anything else out, his lips felt glued together and his body stiff. He had been taking a step forward when the spell hit him and he fell on the ground with his momentum.
“Fucking evil piece of shit!” the man hovered over him. “You think I’m anything like you?”
Yoosung tried to plead with the man with his eyes, suddenly he was terrified, the man appeared to be about to kill him, or at least hurt him very badly.
“I’m going to let you speak, but if I hear the beginnings of any spell I’m going to plunge this into your heart!” there was a pressure against his chest and Yoosung understood it was probably a dagger of some sort. He tried to nod, but of course it was impossible for him to do so.
Suddenly he was able to move his head and his mouth.
“Start talking.” The tip pressed inwards and Yoosung felt it nick his flesh.
“I…I don’t know what you want me to say!” he was flustered, his mind frantic. How could this man deny he was a witch? He’d been practicing magic.
“Why are you here?”
“I told you, I…I was just out for a walk and saw the trail. I…I don’t understand, you…you aren’t a witch? Then…” he glanced at the cauldron questioningly.
“I’m a practitioner of white magic, what you do is an abomination of nature! Where is your coven?”
“White…magic…?” he had never heard of such a thing. He had always assumed there was only one type of magic, the dark kind, the evil kind, the killing kind. He’d never questioned his teachings.
“You don’t know.” The man was genuinely surprised. He sat back on his heels and retracted the dagger, placing back into his voluminous robe. “Sit up.” He commanded. Yoosung’s body relaxed and he was able to control himself again.
He did as he was asked, stretching out his strained muscles.
“No, I was taught there was only one type of magic and that it was only used for gaining more power and influence, for personal pleasure and personal grudges.” He spat the last out in disgust.
“You don’t agree?”
“It never felt right to me. Maybe, maybe that’s why my magic never works correctly. I haven’t ever been able to complete a successful spell, it always goes wrong!”
The man stood and walked to the table where he picked up a book. He sat back down and opened it to a particular page.
“Here, try this.” He handed the book to Yoosung, who took it carefully. A man’s spellbook was a precious thing.
“Are…are you sure?” he doubted the man was really going to let him cast a spell, it was probably a trick, yet he trusted those eyes.
“Positive.” He said and waited.
Yoosung swallowed hard and read the spell several times before attempting it.
He held his hand over the grass beneath him, “Moon above, earth bellow. A gift is given and received. Balance ordered; balance kept. An ounce of blood, an ounce of flesh. The trade is made, sustenance obtained.” As he cast the spell, he could feel the blood drain from him, a life essence that would quickly be replenished. It felt right, not a single thought of trepidation and beneath his hand, the bounty his spell had coaxed, traded, from nature, a single ripe watermelon.
“I did it! It didn’t mess up! I did it!” he was so excited, setting the book down and picking up the watermelon. He looked at the other man, who now had a smile on his face.
“Congratulations witch. You just cast your first white magic spell.”
White magic? Was that it? Was that why his spells never worked? He smiled, sure of the answer, and filled with a million other questions.
“Hi, my name is Yoosung, will, will you teach me?” he asked hopefully.
“Nice to meet you Yoosung, I’m Saeran and I’d be happy to teach you.”
“Well who are you and how did you get in here?” Jumin knelt just inside the apartment door and scratched behind the fluffy black cat’s ear. “Did my wife bring home a stray?” he grinned. Standing he unbuttoned his suit jacket and pulled it off, laying it over his left arm.
“Lillie?” He called out as he made his way towards the bedroom. “Where are you darling?” he stepped inside loosening his tie. Stopping he looked around and took note of the silence. “Now where could you be?” he asked himself walking further into the bedroom.
“Right here my love.” Jumin startled at how close his wife’s voice was behind him. Twirling he was shocked at what he saw and stumbled onto the bed.
There was very little left of the black cat as it shifted into his naked wife. She stood before him in all her glory, reddish hair cascading around her shoulders. Her honey brown eyes brilliant and a bit frightened as she took in his reaction.
“Wh…what…” he could barely breath as the realization hit him that his wife had just been the black cat he had encountered.
“H…how…” his mind was reeling, unsure and confused. Certainly he had delved into the occult for some pleasurable reading but had never taken it quite so seriously. Though he admitted there were things that might never be understood through intellect in the world.
“I wanted to tell you, but it was never the right time.” She held herself back, grabbing one of Jumin’s striped shirts that she insisted on using as a nightgown from her side of the bed and sliding into it without buttoning it. She wrung her hands together in agitation. She looked absolutely fearful. Of him?
Jumin stood, letting go of his suit jacket faced his new bride. “Why didn’t you tell me?” his words came out rather more harshly than he had intended, which made Lillie cringe, tears welling in her eyes.
“I tried! So many times, but I was afraid you wouldn’t believe me, that you would think I was crazy and never want to see me again. Or worse, that you would believe me and not love me anymore!” she sobbed, “And then you asked me to marry you and I said yes, then it became more problematic! I’m so sorry Jumin, my love, I know you must hate me right now!”
Jumin pulled the woman into his arms and held her close, he could feel the rapid heartbeat beneath her breast, her body shivering in fright.
“No no, I’m sorry. I’m not angry, and I certainly don’t hate you. I could never hate you my darling. I’m just surprised is all. How anxious you must have been with this secret.” He stroked her hair gently, continuing to murmur soothing words into the lush curls.
“You aren’t repulsed by what I am?” she pulled away from him and gazed into his storm grey eyes. They were as soft and loving as always.
“Of course not. You are still as beautiful as ever to me, no matter what you are.” He tilted her delicate chin up and kissed her softly, his lips lingering on hers, enjoying the warmth and sweetness of her taste.
Lillie smiled when they finally came up for air. “I’m so glad, you don’t know how envious I’ve been of Elizabeth 3rd on your lap as you pet her and read.”
“Elizabeth!” Jumin stood straight, concern in his eyes, he scanned the room but there was no sign of his beloved cat.
“Not to worry my sweet. She has known all along what I am and has accepted me into your family as an equal.” Lillie laughed.
The tension in Jumin’s shoulders eased, the fear that both his ladies might be at odds diminishing.
“Today was the first day I’ve shifted since we met. I’ve been afraid to slip in front of you. I just couldn’t figure out how or when to tell you and this seemed the best way. I apologize for the shock.”
“Nonsense, what’s done is done and does not change who you are in my mind, nor in my heart. I love you so much, this…just means there is another part of you to love.” He pulled her close once more. He appreciated seeing her in his shirt like this, the length leaving her rounded thighs exposed, hinting at vast landscape beneath the shirt. A landscape he enjoyed exploring as often as he could. The way her body began to move was a hint to Jumin that this had suddenly changed into something else. He responded in kind, his hand on her thigh, sliding upwards and under the shirt to her hip.
She moaned and if he wasn’t mistaken, began to purr deep in her throat.
“Kitten…why don’t we skip dinner and go straight to bed.” He whispered in her ear, nipping at the lobe.
He wore the darkness like a cloak flowing behind him, swerving and swaying, encompassing all within its reach. The storms in his eyes crackled with unreleased lightning bottled up, ready to be released. Blood boiled within his veins, racing, searching, pleading, the pathway to power unleashed. Life within his heart pounded as he reached into the inky blackness of the heavens. Winds roared around him, his dark hair captured, rising and falling, fanning and billowing. It whistled in his ears, the sounds of summoning caressing him forcefully, aggressively faltering to his will.
Capturing the moon with ease he slid across the forest’s underbrush, a staff held firmly in his grasp. The maiden lay in disarray, chestnut hair a birds nest made. On the ground she skid and slid, lily white dress a mess, distress etched in a dainty frown. Screams unheard driven along streams of nothingness. Away she scampered on her behind, golden eyes filled with fear with dread with fright upon the sight before her this very night.
Fear fed his soul, his very being thrummed as terror took his prey. She would be his, his will undenied, tied to him for all time. He raised his staff above his head, the heavy wood crackling receiving his magic, magnifying, forcing, belligerently dancing upon the surface, fingers bracing for the shock. Another scream caught in mid air as the spell fell upon the maiden who slowly rose to her feet and her fate.
There was no truth, there was no hope, his hand held out without a doubt to take his love, his claim, his wants above all else. Her mind clawing, screaming, desperate and cornered. It quiets as he pulls her in, defenseless ever after to his whims. As lips collide, wet, smooth, velveteen, her golden eyes close and the storms in his eyes envelope her soul.
Jumin walked down the beach, his shoes in his hands. There were times when his wealth was an asset. The secluded home and its own private beach being one of them. He took a deep breath and inhaled the salty sea air. It had been a rough few weeks culminating in one of the worst birthdays of his life. He’d decided to take a few days off and recharge.
As he walked he contemplated his place in the world. There had never been a time in which he had not known exactly what his future held, yet lately, he found his life empty, his work not as fulfilling as it once had been. V had suggested he was lonely. Perhaps he was right, but what woman could he ever trust? Most that came into his life were either gold diggers or looking to create a business alliance, not a marriage in the true sense. A merger of means as opposed to of love.
And there was the rub. Love. What did it even mean? He had loved his mother. He loved his father. But he had never loved a woman. He considered the feelings he’d held for Rika but knew it was nothing more than infatuation for a woman he could never have. It never crossed his mind that it was real, nor would he have crossed that line even if it was. He held too much respect and admiration for his friend, and for himself. Still, it was a starting point. The way Yoosung talked about falling in love was juvenile, however, he wouldn’t mind feeling those butterflies in his belly, that sweet shiver down his spine at the mere thought of another person. He envied the boy, knowing that that kind of love was not in his own future.
The cool water lapped over his bare feet and he stopped for a moment, watching the waves come in and go out, digging his toes into the sand. The tactile feel was pleasant and grounding. He wore a pair of purple swimming trunks and an unbuttoned shirt that flapped around him in the breeze. The sights and sounds of the beach were calming on his nerves. These thoughts were intrusive and insidious. Love.
Sighing he turned away from the water, but something bright blinded him for a fraction of a second. He turned towards it but saw nothing. After a few seconds, he began to think it was his imagination when it happened again, and then again. There was definitely something out there. A few rock outcroppings dotted the area, perhaps something had drifted onto one of them. He was about to turn and keep walking when curiosity got the better of him. He dropped his shoes well away from the waves and folded his shirt atop them. Wading into the water he dove in when it was at his waist. It took him no time at all to make it to the outcropping he had pinpointed as the origin of the reflection.
As he tread water he faltered, unsure of what he was seeing. The sun reflected off of shimmering emerald green scales. The size was enormous for a fish, but what he was looking at was most certainly not a fish. The scales tapered off into light green skin. His gaze went from a flat belly to exposed breasts, slender shoulders and a woman’s face with long dark green hair that was partially in the water. A single hand fell into the water and bobbed with the current.
After the initial shock he swam to the woman, his mind would no tolerate thinking of her as a mermaid, and tried to ascertain whether she was alive or not. As he placed his ring and middle finger on her throat her eyes flew open.
It surprised Jumin and he backpedaled in the water as he watched the woman sit up and slide into the water. Her eyes were sparkling, the same shade of emerald green as her scales. Her lips were full, a shade of deep purple. She was before him, eyes blinking and enticing.
“Never have I encountered such a bewitching mortal.” Her voice was soft as silk, Jumin wanted to hear more. She swam closer. Everything in Jumin screamed for him to run, but where could he go? In the water she was surely faster than he could ever hope to be.
“Wh…what are you? A mermaid?” he asked.
The woman laughed, and even that sent chills down his spine, it was delicate and frail.
“A mermaid? How insulting, as if I could ever be anything so insignificant. I am a being you could never fathom, so your minimal minds must make up stories. Do you imagine you are superior to me in any way?” her eyes blazed into Jumin’s grey orbs and he could feel the strength leeching out of his limbs. He was going to drown; he knew it as a certainty.
“Never.” He whispered nonetheless.
“Then perhaps you are smarter than your fellow men. Tell me mortal, what is your dying wish?” she wrapped her arms around Jumin and he could feel the scales of her tail against his legs.
“A kiss.” The words were out of his mouth before he really thought about them, but why not?
“I shall grant it for you, and you shall revel in the knowledge that no other mortal has ever felt my lips upon theirs, nor will any other mortal feel them again.”
“Why?” he dared ask.
“You intrigue me, your mind is…most chaotic. I shall cut your strings and free your soul.” She pressed her lips against Jumin’s, holding him tight as they sank beneath the waves. So this was what butterflies in your belly felt like.
@juminweek2019 Day 5:Teavs.Coffee(vaguely! Sorry, couldn’t come up with anything else that centered around coffee! LOL)
Day 9: Secrets (had to italicize because it won’t center or use the font for entering and exiting the chatroom that I used, roll with it)
Zen has entered the chatroom
Zen: Hello Jaehee, have you been up long?
Jaehee: Zen! It’s good to talk to you. Frankly, I have been at my desk for the past hour.
Zen: In the office already? That CEO in line is such a task master! Just because he comes in so early doesn’t mean you have to.
Jaehee: Actually, Mr. Han has yet to make an appearance.
Jumin has entered the chatroom
Zen: Speak of the devil! Why do you always come in right after me? How do you know?
Jumin: I’m sure I don’t know what you mean. I have better things to do than to see if you are in the chat before I come in. Assistant Kang, have you pulled the files I asked for yesterday?
Jaehee: Yes sir, they are on your desk and have been checked for typos.
Jumin: Excellent. I look forward to reviewing the new merger.
Zen: You are some piece of work Trust fund kid! Making Jaehee work while you laze about all morning!
Zen: Jaehee, have you even had your coffee yet? The least you can do is bring her in her coffee Mr. Moneybags!
Jumin: Is that something you would appreciate Assistant Kang? I could have the concierge deliver one for you ASAP.
Jaehee: That is not necessary Mr. Han. I am well into my second cup of the morning and should not indulge in more.
Jumin: I see, it would seem that Zen’s suggestion was erroneous, as per usual. I should learn not to listen to him.
Zen: Excuse me! I would appreciate it if you would not talk over me! I’m right here!
Jumin: Certainly, if you wish. I have decided not to take your advice from now on Zen, it seems as if it is almost always incorrect.
Jaehee: Sir, that is not accurate. I would indeed enjoy a cup of coffee. However, at this time, I have already had my fill. His suggestion was a good one.
Zen: You tell him Jaehee!
Jumin: I am afraid I must not accept your perspective, as you seem to defend Zen at every opportunity. I believe you are biased.
Jaehee:Sir!
Zen: How dare you! Only your opinion is correct?
Jumin: Certainly, since it is my opinion that counts to me. Zen: What an entitled comment! I swear!
Jumin: Nonetheless, this conversation must end, I must get ready to commence my day. I shall see you when I get in Assistant Kang.
Jaehee: Yes sir.
Jumin has left the chatroom
Zen: Why that! Make him give you all the coffee you want Jaehee! You deserve it.
Jaehee: Thank you Zen, I do appreciate your effort. I should get back to work now, enjoy your day off.
Zen: I’ll try. It’s hard to fill the day on my own. Have a good day, and don’t let that trust fund jerk get to you.
Jaehee has left the chatroom
Zen has left the chatroom
“We really should tell the rest of the RFA.” Jumin said softly.
“I know, but it’s so much fun this way.” Zen set his phone down and snuggled closer to Jumin. They lay tangled together in Jumin’s immense bed, the expensive satin sheet caressing their naked bodies. It had been Zen’s fault Jumin was late for work. Days off were few and far between for the actor, preferring to have his days filled with appointments and practice. But this wasn’t so bad.
“I could take the day off as well; Assistant Kang can handle things at the office.” Jumin suggested, stroking Zen’s silver hair, letting the strands fall between his fingers.
“No no, that would peak Jaehee’s curiosity. I like this game.”
“You mean you like taking swipes at me.”
Zen chuckled, Jumin was right, he enjoyed the back and forth.
“I know I know.”
“It has been fun keeping you to myself. But I believe I am ready to let the world know about the man I love.” Jumin murmured into Zen’s hair. Said man pushed himself up on his elbows and directed his crimson gaze towards the dark grey beautiful orbs of the director.
“Love?” he asked.
“Of course, with all my heart.” Jumin swept some loose strands behind Zen’s delicate ear, his fingertips relishing in the soft firmness of the albino’s skin. Never had he envisioned anything more beautiful than the man in his arms right now.
“You do know how to get what you want, don’t you?” Zen smiled.
“I try. But this time, it is your choice, I want you to want me because you desire me, and love me, not because I can persuade you with my words.” Jumin offered in all sincerity.
“Tell me again.” Zen coaxed, eyes lidded, lips pouting.
“I love you.” Jumin stated simply and firmly.
Zen lowered himself and pressed his lips against Jumin’s, letting his tongue linger and swirl around Jumin’s, soft moans of pleasure escaping them both. When they pulled apart Zen smirked. He picked up Jumin’s phone and handed it to the businessman.
“Make the call, I’m going to make sure you don’t leave this bed all day!”
“I think you’ve had enough to drink Jumin.” V took the glass from his friend and set it on the counter.
“Nonsense, I feel fine.” Jumin stated, holding on to the counter and eyeing the glass. Dizziness made him waver and he decided that perhaps V was right.
“Come now, you should go to bed, I’ll call you in the morning to see how you are.” V led his friend towards the bedroom.
“Fine fine, I am going, you may leave now.” He pushed V away from his gently and headed into his bedroom. He vaguely heard the door close as V exited the apartment. Jumin took his belt off and unbuttoned his pants, pulling the shirt out of them. He sat on the bed and sighed. The room spun. It had been a while since he’d drank that much, but talking with V made it easy to indulge, he’d missed his friend desperately. He lay down and was quickly asleep.
He found himself on a deserted dirt road, the fog thick around him swirling in the evening breeze. He was dressed in a long coat, trousers and shinny black shoes. On his head was a top hat. It certainly was not something he would normally wear. The hard-packed dirt beneath his feet was disconcerting. He looked around him but could make out nothing, so he began to walk.
After a few minutes of feeling as if this road would never end, he heard a horse neighing. It echoed around him giving him a small jolt of fright. He then could clearly hear the clopping of hoofs. He turned around and around as it got louder, wondering where it would appear from.
Suddenly the sound was deafening, he covered his ears and fell to the ground, the sound resonating throughout his body. There was a stir of dirt that filtered into his mouth. He coughed, doubling over and almost retching. When the fit was done and he was able to open up his bleary eyes he blinked profusely. It took almost a minute for his vision to clear. The sound was gone and only silence remained.
He gazed at a pair of dark black horse hooves right in front of him. Slowly he raised his gaze, his eyes following the strong lines of the beautiful creature and met it’s dark eyes. What turned his blood cold was the rider on its back. The man was long and lean, wearing tight black leather from neck to toe. It was the neck that drew his fear. Blackened dry blood dripped from the neck and what sat atop it was not a human head but a rotting Jack-O-Lantern with fire blazing behind the cut out eyes, nose, and mouth.
Jumin fell back and crawled backwards, away from the monstrosity.
“Where is my head?” the visage intoned, its ire clear. Jumin could only shake his head. He closed his eyes and tried to will himself out of this nightmare. He had never experienced anything like this. It must have been that sweet wine V had insisted he drink! Never, never again, dry wine would forever be the only type he would drink. When he opened his eyes, he was disheartened to see he was still completely engulfed by this nightmare.
The man swung a leg over the horse and jumped to the ground. He pulled a sword from his dark scabbard and aimed the tip at Jumin’s neck.
“Perhaps I shall take your head instead.” He threatened.
Jumin blinked in confusion, he recognized that voice. His mind thrashed about, trying desperately to remember who it belonged to.
“Jumin…”
“Jumin…”
“JUMIN!”
Jumin opened his eyes and was startled at the dark red orbs looking down at him. He swatted at the man and pulled himself further up the bed until he hit the headboard. A soft laugh followed him.
“Well well well, to think I would ever live to see Jumin Han drunk off his ass! What were you dreaming about anyway? You were thrashing around like a fish out of water.” Zen stood and walked into the bathroom, when he came back he held a glass of water and handed it to the disheveled business man.
“Wh…wha…Zen?” Jumin was confused but he took the proffered water and drank deeply, his throat was dry and raspy.
“Yeah, I ran into V on his way out, he said you’d drunk too much and he sent you to bed. I didn’t expect this though.” He took the glass and set it on the nightstand. “Come on, let’s get you out of those clothes and comfortable.” Zen began to undress Jumin and tuck him under the covers. Jumin usually slept in silk pajamas, but since Zen had moved in, he slept in the nude more nights than not, he said it was more convenient as Zen enjoyed waking him up in the middle of the night and having his way with him. Zen countered that Jumin did the waking up on at least half of those occasions.
“I…uh…dreamt that you were the headless horseman, and you were going to chop off my head and take it as your own because I couldn’t tell you where yours was.” Jumin snuggled into his pillow and watched his lover discard his own clothes and dive into the covers as well.
“Is that right? Hm, well, I suppose I could do worse than to have your head, what about my body though? Did I still have my beautiful body?” Zen asked, eyebrow raised.
Jumin chuckled and pulled the man close. “I couldn’t say, you were covered in leather from neck to toe, but, it certainly seemed to accentuate you very nicely, although, I have to admit, I was rather distracted by the pumpkin on your head and the sword at my throat.”
Zen laughed and pressed his lips against Jumin’s.
“Well, hopefully you won’t have any more nightmares.”
“Not with you in my arms.” Jumin held Zen close, the white-haired man laying his head on Jumin’s shoulder and letting himself be enveloped. “And no more sweet wine for me.” Jumin sighed. Zen chuckled, both falling asleep in comfort and warmth.
“Go ahead. Scream all you like. Nobody can hear you.” Unknown walked around Yoosung a grin on his face and a demented look in his mint green eyes.
Yoosung knew he was in trouble, but his mind wouldn’t shut the fuck up. He knelt on the floor a hand over his left eye, it hurt like hell but there was too much else to think about to worry about it now. All he could hope for was that Seven had escaped and the rest of the RFA was safe. It would be worth his life if that was true. Suddenly Unknown yanked Yoosung’s head back by grabbing a clump of his bloodied blonde hair. Yoosung did scream, right into the whitehaired man’s face. But he only laughed and joined his scream, eyes wide and crazy. It took Yoosung’s breath away and his throat closed up, even as it was being stretched to its limit.
Unknown’s gaze traveled every inch of Yoosung’s face, taking in the damage he’d already done. Yoosung tried to calm down, but his adrenaline was still racing through his blood and his heart beat so fast it felt like it would explode through his chest any second. He’d never been so scared in his life.
“You’re filthy! Clean yourself up!” Unknown shoved Yoosung down and walked away, arms crossed. Yoosung gulped and got unsteadily to his feet. The bathroom was a few feet away, but it felt like a thousand miles. He almost fell twice before reaching the doorframe. Unknown sneered behind him but at least the sound let Yoosung know the man wasn’t going to suddenly grab him again.
He turned the water on and finally looked at himself in the mirror. He could barely see the color of his hair; it was dark and clumped with blood. His left eye was swollen and already turning purple. He couldn’t open it and when he tried, he hissed at the pain.
“What’s the matter puppy? Does it hurt?” Yoosung’s one good eye found Unknown right behind him; green eyes boring into his soul. He swallowed painfully but said nothing. Unknown stroked the back of his head almost lovingly, his lips dangerously close to his neck. Yoosung felt a sudden revulsion with himself as he realized he was getting aroused. He doubled over and puked in the sink, some of the vomit rebounding onto his face. Painful as it was, he began to cry. He couldn’t help it. Whatever had been holding him together was completely gone and he fell to the floor, his body shaking, his mind broken.
Water splashed on his head and he convulsed, his mind clearing enough to realize he was now sitting in the bathtub with the shower running above him. He instinctively tried to get up and out, but a pair of hands held him down. They were persistent and strong, yet strangely gentle. Enough so that Yoosung stopped struggling and let himself be manipulated back down.
Unknown washed his hair, coaxing Yoosung out of his clothes and tossing them on the bathroom floor. Once the boy had been thoroughly cleaned, he wrapped a towel around him and gently rocked him back and forth.
“There there, shh, shh…don’t you worry. I’m going to take very good care of you, you’ll see.” Unknown whispered into Yoosung’s dripping hair. “You can scream all you want, but only I will ever hear you again.”
*I have never played the game Among Us so please forgive any inaccuracies. I grilled my son who has played a lot and apparently has gotten very good at being the imposter.*
I’m sure you all can guess who is who but here’s a cheat sheet:
(purple) catdad101
(red) god707
(green) supermanyoosung
(lime) Unknown2.0
(white) adonis389
(brown) coffeeisgod
Adonis389: I say the imposter is catdad101, let’s eject him.
Catdad101: we have not yet commenced the game, is that allowed?
God707: LOL adonis389, I think we need more proof first.
Unknown2.0: Agree, let’s just all go do our jobs.
Adonis389: fine, whatever, but I’ve got my eye on you purple!
Catdat101: my name is catdad101, if we are to play this game, we should do it correctly.
Adonis389: You are going to be so annoying aren’t you?
Supermanyoosung: let’s just play guys. I’ve heard really good things about this game, it’s supposed to be addictive. Unknown2.0, wanna hang out together, I’ll watch your back and you watch my back.
Unknown2.0: what if I’m the imposter?
Supermanyoosung: you wouldn’t kill me, would you?
Unknown2.0: no comment.
Supermanyoosung: SAERAN!
Coffeeisgod: can we please begin, I have a lot of work to do.
Catdad101: agreed, ready to play.
Jumin sipped his glass of wine and watched the opening screen. “Interesting.” He set the glass down and got to playing. Saeyoung had given him an introduction, playing a game on his phone to show him how to play, what to do, where to go, how to do his tasks, and how to get around.
After five minutes the alarm went off and the discussion was opened.
Adonis389: not coffeisgod! Why?! I can’t believe you would kill your assistant trust fund kid!
Catdad101: excuse me?
Adonis389: I know it was you! It had to be, who else?
Catdad101: I believe it was you.
Adonis389: WHAT!? Are you serious? I am NOT the imposter, and if I was, I wouldn’t kill Jaehee first!
God707: IDK adonis389, I think catdad101 has a point. Taking out coffeeisgod is a pretty smart move for you.
Unknown2.0: I have to agree. I vote adonis389 as the imposter.
Adonis2.0: you both are crazy! I can’t believe this! Supermanyoosung you believe me right?
Supermadyoosung: sorry, I vote you as the imposter too, I can’t believe catdad101 would be able to successfully kill coffeeisgod, or anyone else, lol.
Catdad101: well, I believe I am offended by that, but, I concur, jettison the imposter!
Jumin chuckled and took a deep drink of his wine. This game was more fun that he had assumed it would be.
The next to fall was unknown2.0. Jumin grinned and shook his head. The discussion opened once more.
Supermanyoosung: OMG, I don’t know what happened! The lights went out and when they came back up unknown2.0 was on the floor! Which one of you did it?
God707: this can’t be! I thought you were supposed to watch his back supermanyoosung!
Supermanyoosung: I know I know!
God707: I don’t believe you.
Catdad101: I do not believe him either. They have been together the entire time, who else could have done it? I saw no lights going off.
Supermanyoosung: because you were in a different area of the map!
Catdad101: exactly!
God707: yes, exactly! So you admit it was you!
Supermanyoosung: no, that’s not what I meant!
Catdad101: I vote you as the imposter supermanyoosung.
God707: me too, I shall avenge my brother!
They jettisoned supermanyoosung, but he was not the imposter.
God707: NO….you?
Catdad101: I don’t understand what is so difficult about this game. It was rather easy to kill them and manipulate you all into dismissing me as a threat. Shall we play again?
“Am I doing this correctly?” Jumin, the sleeves of his striped dress shirt rolled up over his elbows, his hair continuously falling over his eyes as he bent over the pumpkin on the kitchen table. MC laughed and got up from her seat quickly heading into the bedroom then back.
“Here, this might help.” She pushed a round silk headband over Jumin’s head then pushed it back to secure his hair away from his eyes. The lavender color looked good on him.
Jumin looked up at his wife and gave her a loving smile. Only she could do these things to him and he allow it. The look in her eyes gave him life, so he denied her nothing. It was to his great fortune that she in turn did not ask for the world, but only for him.
“Yes, I have at times wondered about the efficiency of Yoosung’s hair clips, however, it would not fit the aesthetic of a director of a large and affluent company.”
MC giggled at the image of Jumin wearing Yoosung’s hair clips. “No, I suppose nobody would take you seriously. Why not cut your hair shorter then?” she asked as she sat back down to attempt to carve out her own pumpkin. There was a table cloth on the table to catch all the pumpkin innards. When she had suggested they carve their own pumpkins Jumin had researched and researched before agreeing.
“I have often thought of it, but, I like this length most of the time, it suits me.” He scooped out the seeds of the pumpkin and scraped the inside until it was as smooth as the photo in the instructions he had printed out. The pumpkin was medium sized and almost perfectly round, there was a slight imperfection to the color but Jumin figured he would simply carve his design on the opposite side and no one need know. He had bought the best pumpkin carving tools he was able to find and now set about tracing the image he wanted onto the surface of the pumpkin.
Glancing towards his wife he noted how she furrowed her brow in concentration and thinned out her lips. Her cute little nose wrinkled quite pleasantly, he had to resist an urge to lean over and kiss the tip. He marveled at just how much his life hand changed in such a short period of time. Any other year and he would not have given this holiday a single thought. At this time he would surely have been in the office working on one thing or another. Now, he was elbow deep into the insides of a large squash and loving every minute of it.
Forcing himself to focus on his design and not on his lovely wife was difficult, but he did it. Once the outline was drawn onto the pumpkin, he held it out to look at it and make sure he had missed nothing. Perfection! Now came the difficult part. He picked up the small sawing tool and began to cut away what needed to be discarded. He regularly consulted the instructions so as not to make a mistake. In fact, he double checked he was about to make a correct cut before proceeding.
“How’s it going?” MC asked. Jumin looked up and couldn’t stop the laugh that escaped his throat. “What?” MC’s eyes were large and confused.
“Here.” Jumin set his pumpkin down and grabbed one of the clean towels on the table. He gently wiped away some pumpkin guts from his wife’s cheek. He leaned over and kissed the same area. She grabbed the front of his shirt and pulled him back down when he tried to move away, capturing his lips. He sighed and lingered on her lips, the soft feel like a balm on his entire life.
“I see what you are doing, trying to distract me. It will not work, I am almost finished.” He sat back down on his seat and MC pouted.
“Fine, I’m almost finished too.” She turned back to her work and Jumin grinned. She made him feel more alive than ever. Before her, he had been floating through life in a fog, and he might have continued that way, never knowing what life really meant, had she not pushed him out of it. He enjoyed his work, the company, loved his father and still gained much pride in what he did, but he was much more fulfilled than he had ever been. His heart was full like never before.
He hummed as he finished up his design, the sound coming naturally. He had often been told his singing voice was beautiful, yet he had never taken much enjoyment out of it. Now, he would sing for MC, or sing when he was alone and at peace, a sign of his happiness and contentment. Even Jaehee had commented that he often hummed under his breath while reading through his documents. He chuckled and MC gave him a soft knowing glance.
“Done.” He stated, setting his finished jack-o-lantern down and placing the cap on top. Perfect.
“Wait! You have to put the candle inside.” MC reminded him as she did the same to hers. They had purchased electric ones that didn’t need to be lit, as the building did not allow for real candles to be used.
“Right.” Jumin reached for the LED candle on his side, turned it on and placed it inside. “Ready?” he asked MC. Their respective newly carved jack-o-lanterns facing themselves ready to be revealed.
“Ready.” She answered.
“One…two…” they intoned together, “THREE.” They each turned their creations to each other, and MC gasped while Jumin tried unsuccessfully not to laugh. MC’s monstrosity was anything but perfect. The two almost triangular eyes were lopsided, one vastly larger than the other. There was a single gash in the center he could only assume was supposed to be a nose, and the too large mouth had dangling teeth that appeared to be one strong breath away from completely falling off. Not to mention she had done an abysmal job of clearing out the inside as there were orange strings visible inside.
“Well, it is certainly ghastly enough for Halloween.” Jumin chided his wife. MC rolled her eyes, her jaw tight.
“Is there anything that you’re bad at?” she asked, exasperated. Jumin had precisely recreated a photo of Elizabeth 3rd.
“I had to make sure my precious, I mean, OUR precious Elizabeth 3rd was accurately portrayed, anything less would have been an affront to her.” MC could only shake her head.
“Well, you did her justice my love.” She laughed and sat on her husband’s lap. “She would be proud to sit outside our door for all to see.” She kissed him, removing the headband and running her fingers through his thick dark hair. “Now, why don’t we go take a shower and clean up.” She suggested. He readily agreed.
“Saerean? Oh my God! It is you! I haven’t seen you in ages!” The tall dark-haired man with glittering green eyes embraced Saeran, a little too familiarly for Yoosung’s taste.
“Haven, uh, how are you?” Saeran gave a quick hug and stepped back.
“Good good! And you? You look amazing as always.” Haven gave Saeran an appraising look from head to toe, completely ignoring the blonde at his side.
“Fine…I…uh…”
“Good enough to eat.” The man smirked, his tongue peeking through his lips sensuously. “I’m only in town for a day, why don’t we go have a drink, like old times? My hotel is just over there.” The man pointed down the block and gave Saeran a knowing look.
“Haven, it’s great to see you, but I’m going to pass on that drink, and…everything else.” He turned towards Yoosung but was halted by Haven’s laughter.
“I’ve never known you to play hard to get, as a matter of fact, I’m surprised you didn’t do the suggesting in the first place, you’ve always enjoyed a good roll in the hay.” His eyebrows rose invitingly.
Yoosung cleared his throat and glared at the man. Haven finally gave the blonde his attention. “Who do we have here? A new playmate? That’s OK, I don’t mind sharing, invite him along. He’s a little on the feminine side, but I’m intrigued.” He ran a finger down Yoosung’s flushed cheek and Saeran slapped it away.
“That’s enough! Yoosung is my boyfriend and we aren’t interested.” Saeran hissed.
“Boyfriend?” Haven’s eyes almost protruded from their sockets. “Since when do you do relationships?” the man appeared astonished and confused.
“Since none of your business.” Saeran seethed.
“OK OK.” Haven put his hands up and took a step back. “Well, if you change your mind…” he took out a business card and wrote something on the back of it, stuffing it in Saeran’s front jean pocket. Yoosung growled but Saeran held him back. “Your puppy has teeth, must be fun in bed.” He winked at Saeran and turned, walking away from them.
Saeran breathed a sigh of relief as the man left. Before he could stop him, Yoosung reached into his pant pocket and pulled out the card.
“His hotel and room number!” he hissed. He slammed the card against Saeran’s chest and began to walk away in the opposite direction as Haven. Saeran caught the card as it began to fall. He didn’t even glance at it, tossing it in the closest garbage can as he quickly followed after Yoosung. The man was pissed, and Saeran couldn’t blame him, he had a lot of making up to do. Haven had been a frequent sexual partner for him, but that was well before he’d met Yoosung. The man didn’t hold a candle to Yoosung, but how to prove it?
The next morning:
“Oh my God.” Saeran stared at his phone, reading and rereading the text. Yoosung was in the kitchen making breakfast.
“What is it?” he asked over his shoulder as he scrambled some eggs.
“That guy…from yesterday…”
“Haven?” Yoosung spat. They’d talked the day before and Saeran had told him everything about the man they had run into. Yoosung asked a million questions and Saeran didn’t hesitate to answer them all.
“Uh…yeah…” suddenly Saeran wasn’t so sure he should say more.
“What about him?” Yoosung asked. Saeran saw how his shoulders had tensed up, he was angry again. He should have kept his mouth shut, but he’d reacted to the news. Besides, it wasn’t right to keep secrets from Yoosung, even if it meant Saeran would be in the dog house for a bit. He knew it was just Yoosung’s jealousy at work, he had nothing to be afraid of, Haven had never been a threat to their relationship.
“Well, apparently somebody murdered him last night.” Saeran said. A mutual friend had sent him the link to the news article, the details were grim.
“Oh?” Yoosung’s shoulders eased and he began to hum under his breath.
“Yeah, according to the article, it was pretty gruesome, how could somebody do that to another human being?” Saeran shook his head.
“I don’t know, maybe he deserved it.” Yoosung shrugged, dividing the eggs between two plates. He went around the counter and set one in front of Saeran, the other next to him and sat. He dug into his eggs and pancakes.
Saeran simply stared at him.
“Yoosung, you didn’t…I mean…ahh…never mind.” Saeran pushed the idea out of his head. Certainly, he’d seen and felt the underlying yandere vibes from Yoosung, but murder? This brutally? He watched his boyfriend, his sweet and innocent boyfriend who screamed when he saw a spider. Ridiculous, it was just a tragic coincidence. Right?
Yoosung hummed happily to himself, a small, satisfied grin on his face.
“Shut the hell up or I’m taking my sock off and stuffing it in your mouth!” Vanderwood growled through gritted teeth. Seven thinned out his lips and ran his pressed thumb and forefinger across them as if zipping them up. Vanderwood rolled his eyes but said nothing. Seven forced himself to hold in his laughter.
He knew it was serious, but his coping mechanism had always been to joke about what he was a afraid of, and a nest of new vampires was high on that list, especially as they now snuck towards them. The agency had developed some UV lights and there were several that now hung from his belt. The gun was tightly in his grip, but it was useless unless he got lucky and shot the vamp in the heart. His skills with the weapon were not on par with Vanderwoods. Since the older man was more experienced, he led their team through.
All were dressed in black from head to toe, the ski mask covering Seven’s red hair, not a single strand visible. He wore thick goggles instead of his glasses as it could be problematic if he were to suddenly lose his glasses. Checking behind him to make sure the rest of the team was still there, he didn’t notice Vanderwood stop and bumped into him, almost dropping his weapon.
Vanderwood turned and glared at him. Seven shrugged and gave him a thumbs up. The taller man shoved Seven back and continued his slow advance.
A few minutes later he halted the team and sent two agents to the other side of the opening he’d come across. The cave was dank, lichen covering the walls giving off an eerie green light. The cavern they stood outside of felt immense, as if it was the entrance into a black hole. Vanderwood gave Seven the signal for him to stay and watch. Seven nodded and took Vanderwood’s place at the edge of the opening. He watched as the tall man entered slowly and made his way towards what he assumed was the center. It didn’t take long for the man’s form to become indistinct in the darkness. There was nothing but silence surrounding them. Seven’s heart seemed to be screaming in his ears.
A scream pealed through the air, a sound Seven never thought to hear from his stoic handler. He reached for one of the UV lights on his belt, turned it on and aimed it towards the source of the scream. Several other lights came on from other agents. Seven instinctively closed his eyes from the overwhelming glare. Blinking rapidly, his eyes finally adjusted. Vanderwood sat on the ground, his back towards Seven and the others, slumped over. Seven’s eyes scanned the area but there was no sign of any vamps, or anything else either. The cavern’s floor was smooth if gravely, there were some stalactites were visible within the light, but the ceiling of the cavern was too high to see.
Seven swiped the light around Vanderwood and towards the ceiling, nothing seemed out of the ordinary, but the stalactites were thick enough for vamps to hide behind. Vanderwood was perfectly still and Seven knew they had to go in and get him out. He motioned to the rest of the team and they headed in, Seven straight for Vanderwood.
Hanging the UV light back on his belt, keeping his weapon trained down and away from the man, he reached out to Vanderwood. As his fingers touched his shoulder, the man turned towards him, a mask on his face of a grinning pumpkin. Before he could even register that fact there were several pops from above him, his head snapping at the perceived danger, his weapon coming up, looking for a target. Several balloons fell from the stalactites and confetti rained downed on him, glitter attaching itself to his dark clothes. His amber eyes narrowed in confusion.
Then he heard laughter. He looked down, Vanderwood was doubled over, holding his stomach, his shoulders heaving with humor.
“What the fuck?” Seven glanced around him, noticing that the rest of his team was also chuckling. They began to take off their masks and Seven was stunned. Yoosung, Saeran, MC, Zen, Jaehee, and even Jumin were among those that had come in with him.
“We got you! Oh my God we finally got you! You should see your face! Saeran, did you record all of that?” Yoosung was gleefully jubilant, dancing on his feet.
Seven wasn’t sure he was seeing what he was seeing. Was this real? Had they ganged up to prank him? Had they really gotten Vanderwood and some of the other agents to go along with it? His chest hurt with the thrumming of his heart. He was glad there was no real danger, but fuck! He shook his head and had to laugh. They got him, yep…he would have to keep his eyes open from now on.
The darkness was only broken by the faint light of the waning moon. Saeran dragged Yoosung through the graveyard, weaving in and out of the tombstones.
“Slow down!” Yoosung pleaded.
“Can’t, it’s almost midnight, you know what that means.” Saeran wasn’t even out of breath, unsurprisingly.
Of course Yoosung knew what that meant, Halloween wasn’t his favorite time of year. He’d rather just spend it quietly, away from all the goblins and ghouls. But Saeran loved it and his excitement was palpable.
“Aha! There!” Saeran stopped and pointed towards a group of teenagers climbing over the locked gate. “This is gonna be great.” He smirked. Yoosung sighed, but let himself be led towards the group, he always hated this part.
As they neared the group there was a lot of giggling. The girls clung to the boys, eyes darting in every direction. Many held beers in their hands and took long swallows, often throwing the drained containers into the darkness of the graveyard. Yoosung frowned and narrowed his eyes, maybe this was a good idea after all.
“What time is it now?” he asked.
Saeran laughed as he more gently pulled Yoosung along, “Almost, just wait for it.” They trailed the gang of kids as they meandered around, one boy actually pissing on a tombstone. Yoosung gritted his teeth. “Wait…” Saeran now had to hold Yoosung back.
Yoosung glanced at the red head and he eased up on his anger, watching in fascination as Saeran’s entire visage changed. He was such a beautiful man. He must have felt the stare because Saeran turned to the blonde, his mint green eyes shining and bright in the moonlight. He gave Yoosung a smile and leaned in for a kiss. It curled Yoosung’s toes as it always did, but now was not the time, indeed, they could both feel the change in the air. It was time. They turned towards the group and began to walk towards them slowly.
The teenagers noticed nothing at first but a swirling wind.
“Fuck, that’s cold!” a dark-haired girl complained.
“Yeah, where did that come from?” a brown-haired boy answered.
“What the fuck is that!?” a girl shrieked, her brown eyes wide, finger pointing towards Saeran and Yoosung.
They appeared hazy, the edges of their bodies fuzzy and indistinct. The rest of the graveyard could be seen through them, as if they were nothing but a mirage.
“Gh…gh…GHOSTS!” The tallest boys screamed and tossed a beer bottle through Yoosung’s body. The blonde growled, his jaw disconnected and dangled, teeth razor sharp, blood oozing from his eyes. A quarter of his skull was missing, the brain beneath the bone pulsing. His clothes were ripped and torn, a tree branch sticking through the middle of his chest. He wore no shoes and only a single sock with cats on it on his right foot.
Saeran’s skull was caved in, his right eye dangling from the socket, the left bulging as if trying to escape. He walked with a limp as his right leg was twisted, the femur poking out of his ragged and dirty black jeans. He reached out towards the teens and grinned, beckoning them.
The screaming reached a crescendo as the two manifested from ghostly images into flesh and blood right before their eyes. Yoosung grabbed a boy’s arm and raised it to his eager lips. The boy fell back, his arm sliding from Yoosung grasp. Then they began to run.
The two didn’t follow. Yoosung grabbed Saeran’s hand and they watched as the living desperately tried to stay that way.
“Admit it, that was fun.” Saeran glanced at his boyfriend.
“OK, I admit it. I didn’t mind giving them a scare, maybe that will teach them not to throw garbage in here!” he screamed at the fleeing group. He looked around and realized where they were. A look at Saeran proved the man knew as well. Without a word, they made their way down a path to a single black tombstone. There were fresh flowers at the base. Yoosung sighed and knelt, picking up the flowers and smelling deeply. Etched on the stone was the end of their lives.
Bringing this around again if anyone is interested. Was fun, at least for me, last year. If anyone wants to participate that would be great! I will post the rules, which aren’t many!
Please tag with @mysme-fictober and/or use #mysmefictober2020 I will be sure to reblog!
