Chapter Text
Felix's eyes flutter open to the dim light filtering through the threadbare curtains of his small, cluttered room. He lies on an old, sagging mattress on the floor, the springs poking uncomfortably into his back. He doesn't even have a proper pillow or blanket, just a thin, worn-out sheet that does little to keep him warm during the colder nights. With a sigh, he pushes himself up, the familiar ache in his body reminding him of the bruises scattered across his torso and the particularly painful one on his rib.
Gritting his teeth, Felix stands and makes his way to the small pile of clothes in the corner. He picks up his school uniform, a hand-me-down from Seungmin, who had outgrown it. The fabric is slightly too big on him, but it’s clean and presentable, a stark contrast to his own tattered clothes. As he pulls on the shirt, he winces, carefully manoeuvring around the sore spots on his body.
Felix stands in front of the broken mirror in his rundown home, the fractured glass reflecting a fragmented image of his face. He stares at the reflection, taking in the sight of the skinny, bruised boy looking back at him. Dark circles mar his eyes, a testament to sleepless nights filled with anxiety and fear. Bruises in various stages of healing dot his skin, stark reminders of his father's violent outbursts. His clothes hang loosely on his frail frame, evidence of many missed meals and constant struggle. Felix sighs deeply, feeling a mixture of despair and resignation. The mirror, cracked and imperfect, feels like a cruel metaphor for his life—shattered and difficult to piece back together.
While looking in the mirror, Felix ensures that the bruises are concealed under his clothes. Satisfied, he runs a hand through his messy hair, trying to make himself look somewhat put together. He takes a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the day ahead, and quietly opens his bedroom door.
He steps into the small, dingy living room, his heart pounding as he peers around the corner. Relief washes over him when he sees his father still asleep on the couch, surrounded by empty bottles of cheap booze and scattered cigarette butts. The room smells of stale alcohol and smoke, a scent Felix has long since grown accustomed to. He moves silently, not wanting to wake his father and risk another outburst.
Felix grabs his worn-out backpack and slips out the front door, breathing in the cool morning air. The streets of his neighbourhood are quiet, the buildings rundown and graffiti-covers them. He walks quickly, eager to put distance between himself and the apartment. As he makes his way to school, he lets his mind drift, thinking about anything but the reality of his home life.
When he reaches the school gates, he spots his friends, Jisung and Seungmin, waiting for him. Seungmin waves enthusiastically, his bright smile a stark contrast to the dreariness of the morning. Jisung, ever the jokester, pulls a funny face, trying to get a laugh out of Felix. Despite everything, Felix can’t help but smile at his friends' antics. They’re the light in his otherwise dark world, and for a moment, he allows himself to forget about the bruises and the pain.
“Morning, Felix!” Seungmin greets, clapping a hand on his shoulder.
“Hey, Felix! Ready for another thrilling day of school?” Jisung quips, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
Felix chuckles, adjusting his backpack. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”
The three friends walk into the school together, their laughter echoing through the hallways. For a few precious hours, Felix can pretend he’s just a normal teenager, surrounded by people who care about him. And for now, that’s enough.
Felix enters the school building with Jisung and Seungmin, feeling a temporary sense of normalcy amidst the bustling students and echoing chatter. As they walk to their lockers, Jisung shares a funny story about his morning, and Felix finds himself laughing despite everything.
In his first class, Felix settles into his seat and pulls out his notebook. Despite the chaos at home, Felix excels in school. His teachers often praise his intelligence and dedication, unaware of the struggles he faces outside the classroom. Today is no different; he quickly immerses himself in the lesson, his mind soaking up information like a sponge.
Mid-morning, Felix and Seungmin meet up for their shared math class. Seungmin, ever the diligent student, pulls out his notes and begins reviewing last night's homework with Felix. The two friends work well together, their contrasting lives forgotten in the shared joy of learning. Felix appreciates Seungmin's patience and support, knowing he can always count on his friend to help him understand difficult concepts.
As the lunch bell rings, Felix heads to the cafeteria with Seungmin. The rich, tantalising aroma of food wafts through the air, making his stomach growl in protest. The gnawing ache of hunger is a familiar, painful companion, but Felix knows better than to ask for money or food. Instead, he finds a quiet spot at their usual table, his eyes involuntarily drawn to the myriad of meals around him. The sight and smell of warm, hearty dishes amplify the emptiness he feels inside, a constant reminder of his own lack.
When Seungmin returns with a tray full of food, the savoury scent of the hot meal hits Felix like a punch to the gut, intensifying the hollow pain in his stomach. His mouth waters involuntarily, but he quickly swallows, forcing a smile as he shifts his focus. He distracts himself by launching into a discussion about their upcoming project in history class, his voice steady despite the persistent ache. He pretends he isn’t hungry, using the conversation to mask the physical and emotional strain that the lack of food brings.
“Hey, you sure you don’t want anything?” Seungmin asks, glancing at Felix’s empty hands.
Felix shakes his head, forcing a smile. “I’m fine. I’ll grab something later.”
Despite his apparent concern, Seungmin doesn’t press further, respecting Felix’s privacy. They spend the rest of lunch chatting about school and their plans for the weekend. Felix enjoys these moments of normalcy, even if they come with the pang of hunger gnawing at his stomach.
After lunch, Jisung waves goodbye as he heads off to his afternoon college classes. “See you guys later! Don’t have too much fun without me,” he jokes, slinging his bag over his shoulder.
Felix and Seungmin continue their day, moving from class to class. In English, Felix finds solace in literature, losing himself in the stories and characters. Science class is equally engaging, and he enjoys conducting experiments and learning about the natural world.
As the final bell rings, Felix gathers his things and meets Seungmin at the front of the school. They walk together, discussing their homework and plans for the evening. Seungmin offers to help Felix with an upcoming test, and Felix gratefully accepts, knowing he could use the extra support.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, Felix,” Seungmin says with a warm smile as they part ways.
“Yeah, see you tomorrow,” Felix replies, waving goodbye.
After school, Felix makes his way to the small diner where he works part-time. The worn-out sign above the door reads "Evelyn's Diner," and the familiar chime of the bell rings as he steps inside. The smell of frying food and coffee greets him, along with the din of conversation and the clatter of dishes.
Felix heads to the back room to store his backpack, taking off his school blazer and tie. He smooths down his shirt and checks his reflection in the small broken mirror, making sure he looks presentable. His school uniform, though a bit large and worn, is the nicest clothing he owns, and he’s grateful it doubles as his work attire.
"Hey, Felix," Evelyn, the owner, calls from the kitchen. "Ready for another busy night?"
Felix nods, offering her a small smile. "Always."
He grabs a notepad and pen, then steps out into the main area of the diner, immediately falling into his role as a server. The usual patrons are there: a group of regulars chatting over coffee, a few families enjoying an early dinner, and a couple of solitary diners reading newspapers or books. He moves through the room with practiced ease, taking orders, refilling drinks, and delivering plates of food.
"Hey, Felix!" Jisung's cheerful voice calls from behind the counter. Felix's friend and co-worker grins at him as he wipes down the countertop. "Ready for another round of fun?"
Felix chuckles. "Always, Jisung. How's your day been?"
"Pretty good," Jisung replies, his eyes twinkling. "Just finished up my classes. Gotta pay for that college tuition somehow, right?"
Felix nods, grateful for Jisung's company. The two of them work well together, sharing the burdens of their jobs and finding moments of laughter amidst the hustle and bustle.
A while into his shift, Felix notices the beautiful stranger with the blonde hair and tattoos entering the diner. As always, the man is impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, exuding an air of confidence and authority. Felix doesn't know much about him, only that he always sits in the same booth by the window, orders a coffee and a meal, and leaves generous tips.
"Good evening, sir," Felix greets him politely, approaching the booth. "The usual?"
The man nods, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yes, thank you, Felix."
Felix writes down the order and heads to the kitchen, his mind momentarily drifting to the stranger. He has often wondered about him, imagining him to be a businessman from the way he dresses and carries himself. Despite the man being a regular, he never engages in small talk with Felix. The man always just orders and pays, Felix doesn’t even know his name.
What Felix appreciates most, however, is how the man's presence has subtly changed the atmosphere in the diner. Since he started coming in, the creepy old male customers who used to hit on Felix have stopped bothering him. Felix suspects it’s due to the man's intimidating presence, though he has never done anything overt to scare them off.
Returning to the booth with the coffee, Felix sets the cup down gently. "Here you go, sir."
The man nods in thanks, his eyes lingering on Felix for a moment longer than usual. "You're very attentive, Felix. It's appreciated."
Felix feels a warmth spread through him at the compliment. "Thank you, sir. If you need anything else, just let me know."
As the evening progresses, Felix continues his work, occasionally glancing over at the stranger, who seems content to sit and observe the diner’s activity. The man’s calm demeanour and respectful behaviour make Felix’s job a bit more bearable, a small comfort in his otherwise tumultuous life.
During a brief lull in customers, Jisung slides into the seat across from Felix at the counter, a playful grin on his face. "So, Felix, any exciting plans for the weekend?"
Felix shakes his head, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Not really. Just working and studying, as usual. What about you?"
"Same here," Jisung replies, shrugging. "Gotta keep those grades up if I want to stay in my music program."
Felix nods, admiring Jisung's dedication. Despite their different circumstances, they both understand the importance of hard work and perseverance.
When it’s time for the man to leave, Felix brings the check to the table. The man hands him the money with a generous tip, as always. "Keep up the good work, Felix," he says, his voice carrying a hint of something Felix can’t quite place—perhaps a note of encouragement or a promise of better things to come.
"Thank you, sir," Felix replies, pocketing the tip. "Have a good evening."
The man nods and leaves the diner, and Felix watches him go, feeling a strange sense of loss. Shaking it off, he returns to his duties, the kindness of the stranger lingering in his mind and lightening the burden of his long day.
As the evening winds down, Felix and Jisung begin the process of cleaning up the diner. They wipe down tables, sweep the floors, and prepare for the next day's business. Despite the exhaustion setting in, Felix feels a sense of accomplishment. He might not have much, but he has his friends, his job, and the small moments of kindness that make it all bearable.
"Good job tonight, Felix," Jisung says, clapping him on the back, making Felix let out a small wince that he’s able to quickly disguise, as they lock up the diner. "See you tomorrow?"
Felix nods, a tired smile on his face. "Yeah, see you tomorrow, Jisung."
Jisung leaves, and Felix stays behind for a few more minutes, finishing up the last of the closing duties. Evelyn comes out of the kitchen, carrying a plate of leftover food. "Here, Felix," she says, handing it to him. "I know you could use a decent meal."
Felix takes the plate gratefully, his stomach growling in anticipation. "Thanks, Evelyn."
He sits at one of the empty booths and digs into the food—a simple meal of mashed potatoes, grilled chicken, and some vegetables. It's not much, but to Felix, it's a feast. He eats quickly, savouring every bite, knowing it might be the only proper meal he'll get until he comes back to work tomorrow.
After finishing his meal, Felix cleans up his plate and heads out of the diner. The night air is cool and crisp, and he feels a little better with a full stomach. On the walk home, he’s already preparing himself for the drunk father at home who will surely lash out.
Felix trudges home, his steps heavy with the weight of the day's exhaustion. The streets were quiet, the dim glow of streetlights cast long shadows on the cracked pavement. As he approaches the rundown apartment building, a sense of dread begins to gnaw at his stomach. He takes a deep breath and climbs the creaky stairs, each step amplifying his apprehension.
He opens the door to their small, dingy apartment as quietly as possible, hoping to slip inside unnoticed. The living room is dimly lit, the flickering light from an old TV casting eerie shadows on the walls. His father is slumped on the couch, empty cartons of cigarettes and cheap booze surround him. The pungent smell of alcohol and smoke hung heavy in the air.
"You're late," his father slurs furiously.
Felix stiffens, closing the door behind him. "I had work," he replies quietly, keeping his voice steady.
"Work? What good is your damn work when it doesn't bring your mother back?" His father spat, his words dripping with bitterness. "You think you're doing something noble? You're just a useless burden, Felix."
Felix’s jaw seizes, the familiar accusations hitting him like a cold slap. He tries to ignore the bile rising in his throat as he takes a step toward his room. "I'm doing my best, Dad."
"Your best? Your best got your mother killed!" His father roars, staggering to his feet. "She died because of you! If it weren't for you, she'd still be here!"
A pang of sorrow and guilt strikes Felix in the chest. The memory of that fateful night haunts him—his mother’s gentle smile, the car crash, the sound of sirens. He was only a child then, but the guilt had never left him, festering with each passing year.
"I'm sorry," Felix whispers, his voice barely audible.
"Sorry?" His father sneered, advancing toward him. "Sorry doesn't bring her back! Sorry doesn't fix this miserable life!"
The first blow lands on Felix's shoulder, sending him staggering back. He didn't resist. He knew better than to fight back—it would only make things worse. His father’s fists rained down on him, each hit accompanied by a string of curses and accusations. Felix winced as a punch lands on his already bruised rib, pain radiating through his body. He shields his face with his arms, bracing himself for the onslaught.
"You worthless piece of trash!" His father shouts, his voice breaking with emotion. "I wish it was you instead of her!"
Tears blur Felix’s vision, but he refuses to let them fall. He bites his lip, enduring the pain in silence. All he wants is to sleep, to escape the torment, even if only for a few hours. Eventually, his father’s anger ebbs, the blows becoming weaker until they stop altogether.
His father collapses back onto the couch, his breathing heavy and laboured. "Get out of my sight," he mutters, his voice hoarse.
Felix didn't hesitate. He stumbles to his room, his body aching with every step. Once inside, he closes the door softly and leans against it, taking a moment to catch his breath.
He gingerly removes his shirt, wincing as he sees the new bruises forming on his already battered torso. He doesn’t bother tending to them; it wouldn’t make a difference. All he wants is to sleep and forget, if only for a little while.
Felix lay down on the mattress, curling into a ball to conserve what little warmth he could. His body throbbing with pain, but his mind is numb and too exhausted to think. He closes his eyes, willing sleep to come. In the silence of the night, the only sound is his ragged breathing and the distant hum of the city outside.
As he drifts off, Felix clings to the small moments of kindness in his life—the time spent with his friends, the generous tips from the mysterious stranger, and the brief, fleeting moments of peace he finds at the diner. These were the threads that keep him going, weaving a fragile tapestry of hope in the midst of his bleak existence.