The fluorescent lights of the supermarket hummed faintly as Fourth strolled down the snack aisle, scanning the shelves for something quick to munch on.
His study session at the public library for his upcoming internal test had been interrupted by the memory of the chaos back home.
His three older brothers were bickering like kids, locked in a heated debate over which movie to watch, turning the house into a battlefield of petty arguments and childish antics. A quiet supermarket visit felt like a sanctuary.
Fourth picked up a bag of chips and a bottle of water when he heard it-a faint grunt coming from the nearby medicine section just behind the snack shelves.
His brows furrowed as he tilted his head to listen. Another low, pained sound followed, piquing his curiosity.
Turning the corner, Fourth stopped in his tracks, his eyes landing on a familiar figure hunched over the shelf.
It was Gemini, looking decidedly worse for wear, with scratches on his arms and a small cut on his cheek.
His brow was furrowed in frustration as he held a tube of pain relief balm in his hand, studying it like it was a life-or-death decision.
Fourth leaned casually against the shelf and smirked. Let me guess, you've never done first aid in your entire life, and it shows.
Gemini stiffened at the sound of Fourth's voice, his head snapping toward him. What are you doing here ? He asked, his tone defensive.
Fourth raised the bag of chips in his hand. Taking a break from studying. The library's quiet, unlike my house, where my brothers are reenacting Battle Royale over a movie. But it seems like you're having a bit of a situation here.
Gemini glared but said nothing, clearly too proud to admit he was struggling. Fourth rolled his eyes and plucked the balm from Gemini's hand, placing it back on the shelf.
This isn't for wounds, Phi. Come on, you're lucky I know what I'm doing. Without waiting for a response, Fourth grabbed antiseptic, cotton pads, bandages, and a tube of antibiotic ointment from the shelf.
Follow me. He said, motioning toward a quieter corner of the supermarket near the seating area for quick snacks.
Gemini hesitated but a twinge of pain in his side forced him to comply. He sat down reluctantly, wincing as Fourth set the supplies on the table.
I can do it myself. Gemini grumbled, though his stiff posture and clenched jaw betrayed his discomfort.
Fourth shot him an unimpressed look. Sure, because you were doing such a great job with that pain balm. Hold still.
Despite his protests, Gemini allowed Fourth to take his arm. Fourth began cleaning the scratches with steady hands, ignoring Gemini's low grunts of pain.
So. Fourth began, his tone casual, How'd this happen ? Got into a fight with the pavement or something ?
Gemini flinched but quickly masked it with a grunt. Some idiot crashed into my car from behind. That's all.
The answer was half truth and half secret. Some idiot real did crash Gemini's car , but that idiot was from another gang and in return Gemini too injured him pretty badly , but he withheld this information.
Fourth hummed in response, clearly unconvinced by the vague explanation.
He chuckled softly as he gently dabbed antiseptic on Gemini's cheek. You're such a princess, you know that ? Getting all scratched up and acting like it's no big deal.
Gemini scowled, his eyes narrowing. I'm not a princess. He growled, his voice low and rough.
Fourth snorted in amusement, finishing the last bandage.
Whatever you say, princess. He teased, giving Gemini a light pat on the head.
Gemini glared at him, but said nothing as Fourth gathered the trash from the first aid.
Standing, Fourth grabbed his snacks and gave Gemini a small smirk.
Try to stay out of trouble. Next time, I might not be around to save you princess. With that, he turned and walked off, leaving Gemini sitting there, his annoyance tempered by the faintest hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his lips.
As Fourth stepped out of the supermarket, balancing his snacks and water, he glanced toward the crosswalk that led back to the library.
The setting sun bathed the street in a warm golden hue, and the distant hum of traffic filled the air.
He sighed, mentally preparing to dive back into his books and finish preparing for the upcoming test.
Just as he was halfway across the road, a sleek black car pulled to a stop in front of him. Fourth paused, raising an eyebrow at the sudden halt.
The passenger window rolled down, and a familiar face came into view-Mingyu grinning widely.
Well, look who it is ! Mingyu called out, his tone warm and teasing. Hop in, Fourth. Let's grab some dinner.
Fourth's face lit up with a genuine smile, the sight of his cousin instantly lifting his mood. Phi Mingyu ! When did you return ? He asked, stepping closer to the car.
Just now. Mingyu replied casually. Now stop asking questions and get in. I'm starving.
Fourth chuckled but hesitated. I've got my books and bag in the library. Let me grab them first, and then we can go.
Mingyu waved him off with a grin. Fine, but hurry up. I'm not waiting all day.
Nodding, Fourth jogged across the road to the library. He quickly gathered his belongings, tossing his books and notes into his bag before rushing back outside.
Mingyu was still parked in the same spot, drumming his fingers on the steering wheel in mock impatience. Fourth opened the passenger door and slid into the seat.
Happy now ? Fourth asked with a laugh as he buckled his seatbelt.
Very. Mingyu replied, starting the car and merging into the flow of traffic.
As they drove through the city streets, Fourth turned to his cousin, curiosity evident in his eyes. So, Phi, is the paperwork done for the land you're buying in Chiang Mai ?
Mingyu's expression softened, a satisfied smile curving his lips. Almost. A few final signatures left, but everything's coming together smoothly. You should come visit once it's all settled. It's a beautiful place-perfect for a getaway.
Fourth nodded, a hint of excitement flashing across his face. Sounds like a plan. But don't think I'll let you make me do all the work if you need help fixing it up.
Mingyu laughed, the sound rich and genuine. You? Work? Please, you'll probably find some excuse to sit back and supervise while I do all the heavy lifting.
Fourth rolled his eyes, unable to suppress a grin. Whatever you say, Phi Mingyu. Let's just see who's complaining when it actually happens.
The car was filled with the easy banter and laughter that always came naturally between the two cousins.
As the city lights flickered on, the promise of a good meal and Mingyu's company felt like the perfect way to unwind after a long day.
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Update
Happy reading cuties ð§¸