ice and fire
word count: 412
hyojin x seungjoon’s 12(?) year friendship
onf is one of my favourite boy groups, i’m absolutely enthralled by them! they’re currently on a program called road to kingdom, and *first episode spoiler* this is loosely inspired by hyojin’s anger in getting fifth place.
-
Hyojin was inexplicably lovable. He was cute, and sweet, and endearing. He was full of warmth. But with those traits he had a fiery ambition. One that would scream when he lost. One that sparked a gnawing annoyance deep underneath his skin. When he was losing, he became dark. He was angry. He was a leader, and he was respected, and he was a vicious storm that swept over the world.
Seungjoon was all sharp edges on the stage, a charismatic dancer. He could hold his own through every single aspect of a performance, and everybody knew he was talented. But while his co-leader was ambitious, fierce and on edge, he was gentle. Seungjoon would congratulate everybody for their efforts. Seungjoon would point out the good in what they had accomplished, no matter how little it was. Seungjoon would know exactly what to say. He was a leader, and he was respected, and he was the soothing calm that prevailed over all.
A pause. Hyojin slams his palm into the wall, ignores how loud it is, ignores the burning sting on his hand. He breathes heavily, eyes dark and upset. Seungjoon knows Hyojin won’t sleep tonight, knows he will stay up and put this anger to good use. But he also knows Hyojin would destroy himself first if he didn’t let some of it go.
A hug. Hyojin stiffens in Seungjoon’s warmth, before melting into his embrace. “I’ve got you,” he hears Seungjoon murmur, feels Seungjoon’s breath tickling his neck. His anger doesn’t melt. It never quite does until he works it out. But Seungjoon soothes the rough edges, brings it to a controlled simmer. Hyojin can work with this.
Seungjoon feels it when his job is done. Feels Hyojin’s frame relax, feels Hyojin’s breathing settle down. He ignores the itch to keep holding on, to protect him, to stay like this for a little longer. Instead, he slowly releases him, keeping his hands on Hyojin’s shoulders. “I’ve got you,” Seungjoon repeats, allowing the corners of his mouth to twist into a small smile as he examines Hyojin carefully, cautiously.
Hyojin takes Seungjoon’s wrists, holds them out just in front of him. “I know.” Hyojin says, not quite calm enough to smile but calm enough to make eye contact. Seungjoon can tell. Hyojin’s eyes have life, different from the angry fire that was trapped in them before. “Let’s practice,” Hyojin says, letting go of Seungjoon’s wrists, and Seungjoon nods.