In Ten Universes (Catnipz)

Universe 2.8

She held it up to Haerin's lips, her voice softer this time. "Just one bite."

Haerin didn't react at first. Her gaze remained distant, unfocused. But Minji didn't lower the spoon. She stayed still, patient, waiting.

After a long moment, Haerin's fingers twitched slightly before she hesitantly leaned forward, parting her lips just enough to take the spoonful of porridge.

Minji felt a strange sense of relief wash over her as she watched Haerin swallow. She scooped up another bite, lifting it again.

"Just a little more," Minji murmured.

Haerin didn't say anything, but after another pause, she took the next spoonful.

Minji stayed by her side, feeding her in quiet, steady motions, never rushing, never pushing. And for the first time since meeting her, she felt like she was slowly reaching her.

As Minji brought another spoonful to Haerin's lips, the girl took it hesitantly, but the moment the porridge touched her tongue, her body tensed. A second later, she gagged, turning her head away sharply.

Minji immediately set the spoon down, her brows knitting together in concern. "Haerin?"

Haerin clutched the fabric of her gown tightly, her breathing uneven as if the taste or texture had overwhelmed her. She pressed a hand against her mouth, shaking her head slightly.

Minji didn't push. She reached for the glass of water on the tray, placing it gently in Haerin's hand. "Drink," she said softly.

Haerin hesitated but eventually took small sips, her shoulders trembling slightly. Minji watched her closely, her voice calm but firm. "You don't have to force yourself."

Haerin set the glass down, avoiding Minji's gaze. Her hands remained clenched in her lap, fingers pale from how tightly she was gripping them.

Minji exhaled quietly, leaning back in her chair. "You don't have to eat if you're not ready," she said, her tone careful, understanding. "But I'll be here when you are."

She didn't expect a response, and Haerin didn't give one. But for now, that was enough.

After they had finished; though Haerin barely ate, Minji noticed how the sky outside had darkened. The quiet hum of the hospital at night made everything feel calmer, slower.

Just as Minji was about to tell Haerin to rest, a small voice broke the silence.

"...I want to see the stars."

Minji turned to Haerin, surprised. It was the first thing she had willingly said all day. Her voice was barely above a whisper, but there was a quiet sincerity in it.

Minji didn't hesitate. "Alright."

She helped Haerin slip on a light cardigan before guiding her out of the room. The halls were mostly empty at this hour, the usual sterile brightness dimmed by the nighttime setting. The soft click of their footsteps echoed faintly as they made their way to the rooftop access.

Minji pushed the heavy door open, and a cool breeze immediately greeted them. Haerin stepped out first, the wind gently playing with her hair.

The night sky stretched endlessly above them, dotted with stars that twinkled softly against the darkness. The city lights below were distant, making the sky seem even more vast, infinite.

Haerin took slow steps forward, her arms wrapped around herself as she gazed up in silence. Minji leaned against the railing beside her, watching her reaction.

After a while, Haerin murmured, "They're beautiful."

Minji glanced at her, noticing the way her expression softened under the moonlight. The usual tension in her face had lessened, her guarded walls lowered just slightly.

"They are," Minji agreed, her voice quiet. "Do you like stargazing?"

Haerin nodded faintly, her fingers gripping the sleeves of her cardigan. "It makes me feel... small. But in a good way."

Minji hummed in understanding. "Like everything else doesn't matter as much when you look at the stars?"

Haerin turned to her for the first time that night, meeting her gaze. A tiny, almost imperceptible smile ghosted her lips. "Yeah."

Minji felt something warm settle in her chest.

For the first time, Haerin wasn't just looking at the stars; she was letting Minji see her too.

Haerin turned her head, her gaze lingering on Minji for a moment. There was something unreadable in her expression; something vulnerable, hesitant. Then, without a word, she stepped closer and buried her face into Minji's chest.

Minji froze, caught off guard by the sudden closeness. She could feel Haerin's breath against her, warm and unsteady. Her hands hovered in the air for a moment before she carefully lowered them, resting one gently on Haerin's back.

The night air was cool, but Haerin's body was warm against hers. Minji didn't say anything, didn't move, simply letting Haerin cling to her.

"...Just a little longer," Haerin murmured, her voice muffled against Minji's coat.

Minji nodded, even though Haerin couldn't see it. "Okay."

So they stood there beneath the stars, the world quiet around them, as Haerin held onto her like she was afraid to let go.

Eros leaned back with a satisfied grin, arms crossed as he chuckled. "That's two to zero," he said, his tone dripping with amusement. "Looks like true love isn't as hopeless as you think, Eris."

Eris narrowed their eyes, crossing their arms in frustration. "Don't get cocky," they snapped. "It's not over yet."

Eros smirked, tilting his head. "Oh, but it's looking pretty one-sided so far."

Eris huffed, turning away. "Just get the next universe ready."

Eros laughed again, the sound light and victorious. "Whatever you say."