[ fic ] Unbreakable (2/?)
Title: Unbreakable (2/?)
Pairings: OT5
Genre: Angst
Rating: PG-13
Summary: A little forgiveness can go a long way, but who's willing to take the first step?
(Previous)
Chapter 2
“TVXQ in 2 minutes!”
Changmin stood behind the curtains as he watched Super Junior’s energetic performance. The loud music, bright lights, and screaming fans brought a wave of nostalgia. The last time he was here, there had been five of them. The excitement seemed like a distant memory because today, all he felt was emptiness.
2 minute before we move on.
If only he could leave it all behind. The dull ache in his heart never subsided but he forced himself to live with it. Dealing with the pain had become a habit now. He hated them, every single one of them, for what they did to him and Yunho. Their apologies had been nothing but meaningless, littered with petty excuses.
1 minute before we start over.
Forgiveness was impossible, but it was time to forget. Junsu’s laugh, Jaejoong’s smile, Yoochun’s voice - he had to find a way to erase them. It was only him and Yunho now, and nothing else mattered. Even if it killed him, he was going to prove to the world that two was just as good as five. He would show them what TVXQ was meant to be.
10 seconds before we live again.
Changmin caught Yunho’s eyes from the opposite side of the stage. With an encouraging smile, he nodded and they stepped out together. The burst of applause and cheers temporarily filled the void in his heart. This was his dream, and he was grateful to be given a second chance.
After chaos, we stuck it out through the hard times
We’re still standing here
We are Dong Bang Shin Ki
As soon as the music started, the rhythm consumed Yunho’s body. His movements were powerful yet precise, sharp but fluid. He was a born dancer. The audience chanted his name and for the first time in years, he felt complete.
It was Changmin’s turn when Yunho slipped into the darkness. He watched with pride as the younger man moved flawlessly around the stage. The long practices had really paid off. Out of all the people he knew, Changmin was the one who worked the hardest. He deserved this more than anyone.
Keep your head down.
They met in the middle and joined hands - a symbol of their unity. At that moment, Yunho truly felt happy. It was a miracle Changmin had chosen to stay by his side. Despite all the obstacles, they had overcome them together. He no longer saw Changmin as the maknae, they were equal.
The younger man met his gaze and held it with feelings of his own. He knew Yunho felt like he owed him for his loyalty, but Changmin would have none of it. The decision had been his and he would never regret siding with Yunho. No matter how difficult it was and will be, Changmin believed in his hyung.
Fire exploded from the stage and the song finally began. Yunho had to fight the urge to smile as the enthusiasm from the crowd touched him heart. Many had turned against them, but their fans were the reason for this comeback.
(Everything has ended) I didn’t even start yet
(We broke up) I haven’t even heard the reason yet
Everyone around me keeps asking me why I’m like this
Why are you like that,
Why are you like that?
I’m already the bad guy
Jaejoong sat cross-legged on the floor, clutching the remote tightly in his hands. He held his breath as he watched the all-too-familiar figures dance across screen. Yunho. Changmin. The new TVXQ.
If Yoochun was here, he would have pulled him away. And with good reason. The sinking feeling settling in his stomach was a sure sign that this had been a mistake. For a split second, Jaejoong wished he hadn’t sent the younger man away.
But just for a second.
As much as Jaejoong understood his friend’s intentions, it was time to face reality. He couldn’t pretend that the two of them didn’t exist. Their lives had moved on without him and he had to accept that (easier said than done, but still). To say it didn’t hurt would be a lie but he had always been a liar.
(If it’s a sin) If loving you was a sin
(If that was a shin) If being genuine is a sin
(I’ll keep it low, I’ll keep it low) I’ll hold it in and stand my ground
(Keep your head down)
You look pretty, but inside you’re so different, that’s what I’m afraid of
(Keep your head down)
I said I loved you but I’ll let you go
Each word tore at his heart and he wondered if the rumors were true. Was the song about him and JYJ? Jaejoong’s vision blurred with tears and he angrily swiped them away. If anything, he had no right to cry.
His eyes fixed on the face he had grown to love so much and felt nothing but pain. Two years ago, he was blinded by his ambitions to see what he had to lose. He was a fool for letting go, for walking away so easily. For not realizing what he left behind by trying to reach too far.
It didn’t matter now because he could never go back. They had all suffered, but for what? The same question would haunt his thoughts, day after day, night after night. Forever.
Why?
(Why?) Did you leave me so easily
(Why?) Did I look easy to you?
(Why?) My heart is ripping to shreds
(Why?) If every moment was a dream
(Why?) If only I had the time to set it right
(Why?) I prayed for your happiness
Yoochun lowered the cap over his eyes and prayed that no one would recognize him. His steps were brisk as he travelled from one end of the supermarket to the other, gathering the things Jaejoong had requested.
“Eggs, check. Bread, check. Milk, check.” He mumbled to himself as he went down the list. “On to the fruits.”
It occurred to him that it was a little odd Jaejoong had sent him, of all people, on an errand run. The older man usually took care of grocery shopping himself but he had insisted on Yoochun’s turn today. He wasn’t in the mood to argue, however, so he dismissed the thought and went on his way.
“Apples…”
I was always satisfied with having you
I was happy to dream the same dream as you no matter what they said
I had to let you go, but I’m just walking my path anyway
Now I’m just chillin’, Feel like I’m healing
It’s too late, you said you can’t come back
You’ve always believed that I’d crumble without you
That’s a misunderstanding, why would I do that? Why, why, I told you I wouldn’t
(Hey) I was really, really sad, because you were so immature
and I was afraid you’d meet someone bad (Why? baby)
His ears caught the last of the lyrics and a sense of dread overwhelmed him. Although the music was faint, he instantly recognized Changmin’s voice in ‘Keep Your Head Down’. Junsu had secretly bought their CD the day it came out and of course, Yoochun had found it. Jaejoong had no idea.
Well, now he did.
The song playing on the radio reminded him that it was TVXQ’s comeback today. A quick glance at his watch confirmed his worst fears. It was broadcasting live right now and Jaejoong was probably in front of the TV. Alone. Goddamn-
“Yoochun oppa?” A girl standing in line peered at him with suspicious eyes. She gasped when his gaze met with hers and she squealed in delight. Yoochun winced and automatically bolted. The last thing he wanted was a crowd of screaming fans. He needed to get home, and fast.
(Keep your head down)
You’re really pretty, but that’s all there is to you, there’s nothing important inside of you
(Keep your head down)
A nail is driven into the heart that is holding in the pain of love
(Why?) Did you leave me so easily
(Why?) Did I look easy to you?
(Why?) My heart is ripping to shreds
(Why?) If every moment was a dream
(Why?) If only I had the time to set it right
(Why?) I prayed for your happiness
He was going to do this, he told himself as his courage began to fade. His hands shook as he reached for the door but he was determined to go through with his plan. Taking a steadying breath, he opened it silently and slipped in unnoticed.
He knew exactly where he was going. Every turn was routine, unconsciously bringing him back to where he belonged. The posters on the walls had changed but other than that, it was exactly how he remembered it. More importantly, he felt at home.
People were running to and fro, far too busy to detect his presence. Someone even mistook him as an assistant and handed him a bunch of clothes. He took them without a word, managing not to blow his cover with a nervous laugh.
He was almost there, one last corner to turn, when someone said his name. It was more of a whisper, actually, but he had heard it nonetheless. Every muscle in his body tensed as the footsteps came closer.
He didn't need to turn around to know who it was.
Lee Hyukjae.
Ha, Don’t play with people like that
In front of me, all you do is speak of lies
You’re such a two-faced person
(Why why why) Since when did our feelings become so different?
Our love has ended, I’ve let you go, and now my heart is empty
But my future is gesturing towards me to get up and smile
I’m letting you go, live happily (why why why)
One day far from now, far from now, I want to just smile comfortably
“What are you doing here?” Hyukjae’s voice held a note of disbelief.
There were so many answers to that one single question. To mend the broken pieces, to plead for forgiveness, to hope for the best? He didn’t know how to start so he stayed silent, turning ever-so-slowly to meet the other’s gaze.
The hurt was strikingly obvious in Hyukjae’s eyes. It was hard to believe that years of friendship had dissolved into this - anger, disappointment and betrayal. His own eyes started to water but he wouldn’t let himself cry. Not before he did what he came to do.
“I’m sor-” Before he could finish his sentence, the boy in front of him had launched himself into his arms. He had been prepared for screaming, cursing and even punching but this? He stood, rigid, absolutely stunned at the unexpected hug.
“I missed you, Su.”
And it was as simple as that.
(Why?) Why
(Why?) You let go of our love so easily
(Why?) Did you ever think that someone would get worried?
(Why?) I don’t think you know yet
(Why?) Exactly just what you let go of
(Why?) Just remain there and watch me grow
(Keep your head down)
Erased, disappeared, you’ve burned to death in my heart
(Keep your head down)
Erased, disappeared, you’ve died in my heart and you no longer exist
Changmin held the last note as the audience exploded into a thunderous applause. Yunho smiled brilliantly and bowed, but the small tinge of sadness gradually etched its way back into his heart. There was truth behind the lyrics, however much he tried to deny it.
As the lights started to dim, the two of them waved and made their way off stage. Their manager signaled for him and the older boy nodded in response.
“I’ll be right back, Min.” Yunho hugged the taller boy with all his remaining strength. “You were great out there!”
Another dazzling smile and he left in the opposite direction. Changmin laughed inwardly at his hyung’s protectiveness. He wasn’t five, for god’s sake, he could handle being alone for a few minutes.
“Changmin!”
A voice called out to him and he turned, easily making out Eunhyuk with his light brown hair. He immediately brightened at the sight of his friend and smiled, weaving his way through the crowd towards him.
“Hey, hyung-”
Changmin stopped dead in his tracks when he noticed that Eunhyuk wasn't the only one waiting for him. Standing slightly behind him was someone straight out of Changmin's worst nightmare.
Kim Junsu.
Pairings: OT5
Genre: Angst
Rating: PG-13
Summary: A little forgiveness can go a long way, but who's willing to take the first step?
(Previous)
Chapter 2
“TVXQ in 2 minutes!”
Changmin stood behind the curtains as he watched Super Junior’s energetic performance. The loud music, bright lights, and screaming fans brought a wave of nostalgia. The last time he was here, there had been five of them. The excitement seemed like a distant memory because today, all he felt was emptiness.
2 minute before we move on.
If only he could leave it all behind. The dull ache in his heart never subsided but he forced himself to live with it. Dealing with the pain had become a habit now. He hated them, every single one of them, for what they did to him and Yunho. Their apologies had been nothing but meaningless, littered with petty excuses.
1 minute before we start over.
Forgiveness was impossible, but it was time to forget. Junsu’s laugh, Jaejoong’s smile, Yoochun’s voice - he had to find a way to erase them. It was only him and Yunho now, and nothing else mattered. Even if it killed him, he was going to prove to the world that two was just as good as five. He would show them what TVXQ was meant to be.
10 seconds before we live again.
Changmin caught Yunho’s eyes from the opposite side of the stage. With an encouraging smile, he nodded and they stepped out together. The burst of applause and cheers temporarily filled the void in his heart. This was his dream, and he was grateful to be given a second chance.
After chaos, we stuck it out through the hard times
We’re still standing here
We are Dong Bang Shin Ki
As soon as the music started, the rhythm consumed Yunho’s body. His movements were powerful yet precise, sharp but fluid. He was a born dancer. The audience chanted his name and for the first time in years, he felt complete.
It was Changmin’s turn when Yunho slipped into the darkness. He watched with pride as the younger man moved flawlessly around the stage. The long practices had really paid off. Out of all the people he knew, Changmin was the one who worked the hardest. He deserved this more than anyone.
Keep your head down.
They met in the middle and joined hands - a symbol of their unity. At that moment, Yunho truly felt happy. It was a miracle Changmin had chosen to stay by his side. Despite all the obstacles, they had overcome them together. He no longer saw Changmin as the maknae, they were equal.
The younger man met his gaze and held it with feelings of his own. He knew Yunho felt like he owed him for his loyalty, but Changmin would have none of it. The decision had been his and he would never regret siding with Yunho. No matter how difficult it was and will be, Changmin believed in his hyung.
Fire exploded from the stage and the song finally began. Yunho had to fight the urge to smile as the enthusiasm from the crowd touched him heart. Many had turned against them, but their fans were the reason for this comeback.
(Everything has ended) I didn’t even start yet
(We broke up) I haven’t even heard the reason yet
Everyone around me keeps asking me why I’m like this
Why are you like that,
Why are you like that?
I’m already the bad guy
Jaejoong sat cross-legged on the floor, clutching the remote tightly in his hands. He held his breath as he watched the all-too-familiar figures dance across screen. Yunho. Changmin. The new TVXQ.
If Yoochun was here, he would have pulled him away. And with good reason. The sinking feeling settling in his stomach was a sure sign that this had been a mistake. For a split second, Jaejoong wished he hadn’t sent the younger man away.
But just for a second.
As much as Jaejoong understood his friend’s intentions, it was time to face reality. He couldn’t pretend that the two of them didn’t exist. Their lives had moved on without him and he had to accept that (easier said than done, but still). To say it didn’t hurt would be a lie but he had always been a liar.
(If it’s a sin) If loving you was a sin
(If that was a shin) If being genuine is a sin
(I’ll keep it low, I’ll keep it low) I’ll hold it in and stand my ground
(Keep your head down)
You look pretty, but inside you’re so different, that’s what I’m afraid of
(Keep your head down)
I said I loved you but I’ll let you go
Each word tore at his heart and he wondered if the rumors were true. Was the song about him and JYJ? Jaejoong’s vision blurred with tears and he angrily swiped them away. If anything, he had no right to cry.
His eyes fixed on the face he had grown to love so much and felt nothing but pain. Two years ago, he was blinded by his ambitions to see what he had to lose. He was a fool for letting go, for walking away so easily. For not realizing what he left behind by trying to reach too far.
It didn’t matter now because he could never go back. They had all suffered, but for what? The same question would haunt his thoughts, day after day, night after night. Forever.
Why?
(Why?) Did you leave me so easily
(Why?) Did I look easy to you?
(Why?) My heart is ripping to shreds
(Why?) If every moment was a dream
(Why?) If only I had the time to set it right
(Why?) I prayed for your happiness
Yoochun lowered the cap over his eyes and prayed that no one would recognize him. His steps were brisk as he travelled from one end of the supermarket to the other, gathering the things Jaejoong had requested.
“Eggs, check. Bread, check. Milk, check.” He mumbled to himself as he went down the list. “On to the fruits.”
It occurred to him that it was a little odd Jaejoong had sent him, of all people, on an errand run. The older man usually took care of grocery shopping himself but he had insisted on Yoochun’s turn today. He wasn’t in the mood to argue, however, so he dismissed the thought and went on his way.
“Apples…”
I was always satisfied with having you
I was happy to dream the same dream as you no matter what they said
I had to let you go, but I’m just walking my path anyway
Now I’m just chillin’, Feel like I’m healing
It’s too late, you said you can’t come back
You’ve always believed that I’d crumble without you
That’s a misunderstanding, why would I do that? Why, why, I told you I wouldn’t
(Hey) I was really, really sad, because you were so immature
and I was afraid you’d meet someone bad (Why? baby)
His ears caught the last of the lyrics and a sense of dread overwhelmed him. Although the music was faint, he instantly recognized Changmin’s voice in ‘Keep Your Head Down’. Junsu had secretly bought their CD the day it came out and of course, Yoochun had found it. Jaejoong had no idea.
Well, now he did.
The song playing on the radio reminded him that it was TVXQ’s comeback today. A quick glance at his watch confirmed his worst fears. It was broadcasting live right now and Jaejoong was probably in front of the TV. Alone. Goddamn-
“Yoochun oppa?” A girl standing in line peered at him with suspicious eyes. She gasped when his gaze met with hers and she squealed in delight. Yoochun winced and automatically bolted. The last thing he wanted was a crowd of screaming fans. He needed to get home, and fast.
(Keep your head down)
You’re really pretty, but that’s all there is to you, there’s nothing important inside of you
(Keep your head down)
A nail is driven into the heart that is holding in the pain of love
(Why?) Did you leave me so easily
(Why?) Did I look easy to you?
(Why?) My heart is ripping to shreds
(Why?) If every moment was a dream
(Why?) If only I had the time to set it right
(Why?) I prayed for your happiness
He was going to do this, he told himself as his courage began to fade. His hands shook as he reached for the door but he was determined to go through with his plan. Taking a steadying breath, he opened it silently and slipped in unnoticed.
He knew exactly where he was going. Every turn was routine, unconsciously bringing him back to where he belonged. The posters on the walls had changed but other than that, it was exactly how he remembered it. More importantly, he felt at home.
People were running to and fro, far too busy to detect his presence. Someone even mistook him as an assistant and handed him a bunch of clothes. He took them without a word, managing not to blow his cover with a nervous laugh.
He was almost there, one last corner to turn, when someone said his name. It was more of a whisper, actually, but he had heard it nonetheless. Every muscle in his body tensed as the footsteps came closer.
He didn't need to turn around to know who it was.
Lee Hyukjae.
Ha, Don’t play with people like that
In front of me, all you do is speak of lies
You’re such a two-faced person
(Why why why) Since when did our feelings become so different?
Our love has ended, I’ve let you go, and now my heart is empty
But my future is gesturing towards me to get up and smile
I’m letting you go, live happily (why why why)
One day far from now, far from now, I want to just smile comfortably
“What are you doing here?” Hyukjae’s voice held a note of disbelief.
There were so many answers to that one single question. To mend the broken pieces, to plead for forgiveness, to hope for the best? He didn’t know how to start so he stayed silent, turning ever-so-slowly to meet the other’s gaze.
The hurt was strikingly obvious in Hyukjae’s eyes. It was hard to believe that years of friendship had dissolved into this - anger, disappointment and betrayal. His own eyes started to water but he wouldn’t let himself cry. Not before he did what he came to do.
“I’m sor-” Before he could finish his sentence, the boy in front of him had launched himself into his arms. He had been prepared for screaming, cursing and even punching but this? He stood, rigid, absolutely stunned at the unexpected hug.
“I missed you, Su.”
And it was as simple as that.
(Why?) Why
(Why?) You let go of our love so easily
(Why?) Did you ever think that someone would get worried?
(Why?) I don’t think you know yet
(Why?) Exactly just what you let go of
(Why?) Just remain there and watch me grow
(Keep your head down)
Erased, disappeared, you’ve burned to death in my heart
(Keep your head down)
Erased, disappeared, you’ve died in my heart and you no longer exist
Changmin held the last note as the audience exploded into a thunderous applause. Yunho smiled brilliantly and bowed, but the small tinge of sadness gradually etched its way back into his heart. There was truth behind the lyrics, however much he tried to deny it.
As the lights started to dim, the two of them waved and made their way off stage. Their manager signaled for him and the older boy nodded in response.
“I’ll be right back, Min.” Yunho hugged the taller boy with all his remaining strength. “You were great out there!”
Another dazzling smile and he left in the opposite direction. Changmin laughed inwardly at his hyung’s protectiveness. He wasn’t five, for god’s sake, he could handle being alone for a few minutes.
“Changmin!”
A voice called out to him and he turned, easily making out Eunhyuk with his light brown hair. He immediately brightened at the sight of his friend and smiled, weaving his way through the crowd towards him.
“Hey, hyung-”
Changmin stopped dead in his tracks when he noticed that Eunhyuk wasn't the only one waiting for him. Standing slightly behind him was someone straight out of Changmin's worst nightmare.
Kim Junsu.