Taken Gift - Infinite Fan Fiction by Lee Su Jo

7/29/2019 Taken Gift - Infinite Fan Fiction by Lee Su Jo

1/25

Taken Gift

Credit to Infinite, Inspirits and readers love ya!

Story by: Lee Su Jo

The girl sits in manner and the seven guys sit beside her. They chat about many things; how their

career goes well, how they manage their time, how they appreciate those who help them

popularize themselves, etc. They seem like never wish to stop. The chat goes smoothly like there

is no time limit for it.

All right, guys. Its timealready, said the girl while glances her watch.

The guys release sighs. They start to complain. The time envies us, says the tallest,

Sungyeol. The other six nods to show that they are totally agree with Sungyeol.

But! the MC startles them, before you leave us in here, I will give you another

question.

The guys eyes shine like they are given second chance of life. They nod abruptly, Of

course.

So the MC looks her card in her hand, what is your charisma in your group?

They look each other while smile to themselves. No one knows what they are really doing

but what important is, they know they need to answer the question.

Not very tough, said the eldest, Sunggyu, I think I start first, shall I?

The one who sits beside Sunggyu motions his arm before him, we release him first since

he is the eldestamong us, he says while upraising his brows. He is laughed by the other five.

Sunggyu pouts, I start. My charisma is my leadership, he faces his members, they,

themselves, admit that they never meet a leader as good as me. Our manager is the witness, he

strongly wants to protect himself from getting a boo.

Still, he gets one from his closest members, Woohyun who mentioned about him earlier.

Woohyun even gives him a thumb down. Sunggyu glares at him. He ignores Sunggyu.

Haha! the MC laughs as she is entertained by the way Infinite happening the interview.

She hopes that her boyfriend is as friendly as them too. You always talk about Sunggyu oppa,

Woohyun. What about you?

Me? Woohyun points himself at his chest. Well, I am known with my charm. You know

the Buing Buing aegyo? I was made to do that.

You were? So cute! she dilates. Well, what about you, she refers to the guy who sits

beside Woohyun. He is staring at the cameraman since they started their show, Myungsoo?


2/25

I um, I am known as Infinite visual, so my charisma is my face, his blank and too-

direct answer gives him a boo, again from Woohyun. Well, he is the set mood maker but

members mood destroyer.

Haha! the MC releases out her laugh, nice answer, Myungsoo. What about the Lees in

Infinite, Lee Howon, Lee Sungyeol and Lee Sungjong?

All three of them seem like startle a bit. Then the eldest among them three replies first,

well, I like to dance. My fans like to call me HoBabybecause of my cuteness.

Yeah, right, Woohyun adds, he is so damn right.

Sunggyu slaps him softly at his back, shh, its his turn. Let him confess his feelings.

Woohyun pouts. His complain receives respond from no one. He sits quietly.

I like my nose. I think its the most unique of myself. Oh, another thing is myheight. Imthe tallestamong seven of us, Sungyeol brags.

Hes right. Maybe we can never reach him, the guy that sits at the last seat agrees,

just you look at me now, Im the shortest among us. Hes the tallest.

You are? Sunggyu dilates, I think I am instead of you.

You do? the last guy copies Sunggyus dilating eyes, I think that we are.

Sunggyu squints. Meet me at home, Dongwoo.

The guy named Dongwoo chuckles. Please listen to mine first. As for me, my charisma is

my sarcastic laugh?

All of them included the MC laugh out loud. They are shocked that they never thought

Dongwoo would say so. Actually, I thought that you were going to say about your rap, or your

song-writing ability, but no, you mentioned about your laugh?

They continue laughing Dongwoo. Dongwoo seems like doesnt feel offended even a bit. He,

too, laughs at his silliness.

Last but not least, our youngest Sungjong~ the MC lilts on his name, so, what is your

charisma?

Before that, Dongwoo butts in, Sungjong, I am sorry for letting you be the last one. I

am avoiding from being so.

The elders laugh out loud. Dongwoo pats Sungjongs shoulder and smiles meaningfully.

Sungjong seems like confused but he laughs too.

Mine is um actually, he straightens his backbone, my fans said that they like my

eyes. My gaze, my stares to the camera during our show, etc. so, I just consider my eyes as my

charisma.


3/25

The others nod to agree his statement.

Personally, I am jealous of him, Myungsoo the visual adds more, he has the most

beautiful eyes among all seven of us. Seriously, I am in love with those eyes as mine look simpler.

Eh? the MC shocks, what do you mean by simpler?

Well, he motions his hand before Sungjong although that guy sits a few seats away

from his, if you look his eyes, you will feel what his fans feel like he told earlier. I, too,

understand what his fans are talking about. But, the feeling cannot be compared with any word.

It is like his eyes are special ones.

Sunggyu, Woohyun, Howon, Sungyeol, Sungjong and Dongwoo stare Myungsoo without a

blink. They are amazed with him as he was detailing his feeling of Sungjongs eyes although he,

himself couldnt describe it clearly enough.

Fantastic, Myungsoo. So that is our interview today, with our very special guest Infinite!

she claps then Infinite follows her. All right, thats all for today. See you next week on Stars

Today!

***

They reach home and lay on their beds respectively. They are very tired and worn out. They

went to several televisions broadcast companies and did many live interviews and shows. Only

God knows how sleepless they are since they released their second single of Destiny.

That night, they sleep as soon as they lay their heads on the pillows. Snores can be heardfrom the doors.

***

Its morning already. Wake up, dude, Sunggyu wakes Woohyun, his roommate up. But

Woohyun refuses to listen. He continues his sleep and happily having his sweet dream.

Sunggyu sighs as Woohyuns stubbornness pisses him off. He goes out of their room and

leads to Myungsoo and Dongwoos. Both the visual and the rapper of Infinite sleep in one room,

and yes, they are sleepyheads.

Wake up, both of you! Sunggyu yells by the door, We will be going to Music Banktoday!

Get ready to practice, you guys!

But yes, those sleepyheads are too sleepy to listen to Sunggyu. Sunggyu stomps to The

Lees room. The triplets are sleeping too. But waking them up is much e asier than those before

them. Sunggyu turns the door knob and enters the room.

You guys! Wake up call!

Sungyeol is the first guy to get up suddenly. Then he complains that his blood circulatoryis doing unwell due to his abrupt raise of head. Sunggyu mocks him. Its yourfault, get it!


4/25

Sungyeol pouts while marches out of the room. Sunggyu goes to Howons bed and shakes

his shoulders. Howon, wake up. It is morning and you are in charge of cooking our breakfast.

What the shit are you telling me? We never make anyagreement for that, Howon snaps,

if you want me to do your chores, forget it.

Yeah, right, Sunggyu sighs, it is morning and you know the number 12 is reaching. We

need to go to Music Bankthis afternoon.

Are you kidding? Howon opens his eyelids and dilates to Sunggyu, and you are sitting in

here waking me up and telling me such shocking news? The clock needle isreaching 12 you said?

Howon hurriedly comes down from his bed and tidies it a bit before he goes out with his

bath towel. Sunggyu makes his way to Sungjongs bed to wake their youngest up.

Sungjong, morning already, he says while shaking Sungjongs shoulders.

A few seconds later, Sungjong gets up. With his eyes closed, he asks, What time is it?

Its three minutes to 12.

Oh, no wonder, replies Sungjong.

What do you mean?

Howon hyung missed his favourite 8 am morning programme on television.

Sunggyu gapes. Let him be. Its almost noon so get up now.

Whatever you say, Sungjong continues as Sunggyu leaves his bed, I wont help you

waking up another three, hyung.

Shh, Sunggyu snaps, I wontask you to do so.

Sunggyu exits the room. Sungjong rubs his eyes. He opens his eyelids. Blur. He rubs them

again. Still blur. Sungjong shakes his head and blinks three times. Well, all those are not helping

him. He is at sea. Why is it?

I am too sleepy, I guess, he thinks positively and leads to the ba throom before he

witnesses a fight between Howon and Sungyeol. Sungyeol is never stopping from being their

choding.

***

They have arrived at Music Bankbackstage and greet other idols such as Shinee, Ailee, Girls

Dayand more. They are given a special waiting room for them before they appear on the stage

with their amazing suits and dances for Destiny.

Its the moment when Sungjong suddenly realises his view become blurry again. Hemumbles to himself. Oh, just what happened?


5/25

You okay, Sungjong? his roommate, Sungyeol approaches him as he sees Sungjong keeps

on massaging his temple.

Im all right, Sungjong pretends to be okay from his outlook, do you think that I am

sick?

Never, Sungyeol gives quick reply, you never fall sick because you have the most

antibodies among us, dont you know?

I am? Oh, thanks.

Uh, its a waste spending my precious time on you, Sungjong, Sungyeol squints, Still if

you feel unwell, do meet me. I am always for you.

Sungyeol is about to leave Sungjong confronting the mirror alone when he feels someone

grabs his right wrist. He turns.

Hyung, I am feeling sick, complains Sungjong.

***

Tell me, what do you feel?

Sungjong does not like the way his members pamper him. He is treated like he is just

seven and the others are twenty. Hyung, he tries to cut them off, I just feel a bitsick, and

you are thisworry?

Sungjong, Woohyun grabs his right shoulders, you are our maknae, so we must take

care of you. We dont want you to be unhealthy.

Just dont be shy, Sunggyu draws to Sungjong nearer, which part of your body is not

doing well?

I just feel a bit dizzy. Thats all.

The members look each other. You get some rest. Let us do the performance. You stay

here and dont ever think of running away.

This is Music Banknot Sesame Player, seems like the choding has always been a choding.

I know, hyung, Sungjong smiles a bit.

Yes, thats my love, Myungsoo hugs Sungjong before they leave him to do stage

performance.

***

From inside the waiting room, Sungjong is able to hear the cries and cheers of Inspirits,

Infinites fans. They are so zesty, spirited and gay. Sungjong always hopes that he can meetthem all once for each person, at least. He hopes that he is able to do so. He really hopes so.


6/25

Sungjong watches his members performance on the screen in the room. He is jealous of

them. He wants to dance and sing for Destinytoo. He likes the songs. He likes the choreography.

Although he never faces the situation sung in the song, he feels alive each time he listens to

Destiny. Destinyis his destiny.

Right after six-members-Infinite finishes their show, the Music Bank MC approaches

them and, they have been thinking the same topic since the moment they appeared on the stage;

where has the guy called Sungjong been?

He needs some rest. Overwork himself, thats it. I have never been this tired still I am

standing on this stage but our maknae not. Just pray for his healthiness, Sunggyu replies on

Sungjongs behalf.

Inspirits, just dont feel so sad. He is with us, now. I mean it, Dongwoo adds.

Sungjong chuckles to see Sungyeol and Myungsoo do a small wrestling match behind Hoyawho is standing beside Dongwoo on the screen. Then, he notices that a cameraman is coming into

the room, the one he is in at the moment. The cameraman then records his face.

Although curious, he greets the cameraman as someone who he needs to respect to.

See? He is with us. Although he is not feeling well, he still feels respect to elders.

Thats one of the reasons why welove him, Sunggyu cheers the fans.

Sungjong is shocked. He immediately looks the screen. His face is on the screen, and its

so real. He pokes his cheek and so his self on the screen. He then, realises that his deed is

recorded by the cameraman who is with him.

The fans are half yelling at the moment they saw Sungjong on the big screen near the

main stage. Sungjong hears Sunggyus command, Sungjong, please give some speech.

Sungjong gives out his laugh before he follows, good afternoon, Inspirits out there!

Sorry for not appear before you guys but I will next week. Wait for me and keep on supporting

Infinite!

His short speech makes the fans cheer loudly. Infinite on the stage wave the fans as

soon as Sungjong does the same. Finally, they come out from the stage and get ready to go home.

***

They chat happily on their way home. Sungjong chats and smiles like he usually does. No one

suspects anything. He does not mention once about his curiosity of his eyes. Why they always get

blur?

I sleep now, Sungjong lands on his bed as his roommates and he enter their bedroom.

Sungyeol does not have the chances to ask him when he hears Sungjongs soft snores. He

does not have the heart to wake Sungjong up so he goes to sleep too.


7/25

***

Sunggyu does his routine; waking up Infinite members. He does not want to wake Sungjong up

because he knows that maknae wont help him waking the visual and rapper up. Howon is

commanded to do the chore.

Howon climbs the bed stairs by Sungjongs bed and pokes Sungjongs cheek. Sungjong, it

is morning already.

Hmm, Sungjong groans, just tell me that its 12 already.

I told you the truth. Its morning.

What time is it?

8 am.

Sungjong inhales. Yeah, its morning.

Wake up, dongsaeng. We are not going anywhere, as far as I know, but hope we are

really not.

Sungjong blinks for several times. Is it Howon hyung?

Yes I am. Cant you see me?

Sungjong rubs his eyes. He looks affront again, hyung, you he caresses Howons face

and ruffles Howons front hair, have you took your shower?

I will right after ensuring you up already, Howon pushes Sungjongs hand from his head.

But Sungjong suddenly grabs his shirt. Howon is shocked. Why?

Hyung, dont go yet.

Howon frowns. Sungjong, are you he is curious with Sungjongs ability to see, okay?

Sungjong stops tugging Howons shirt. He releases him and pretends nothing happens.

Im absolutelyokay. Dont worry of me.

You arenot, are you? I smell something fishy.

Haha, Sungjong gives a sarcastic laugh, What shit you talk about. Lets go out.

Howon follows Sungjong. Deep in his heart, he is craving for Sungjongs explanation. He is

having a sort of problem, I bet, he monologues.

***

To the left, right twosteps, a little bit more


8/25

Infiniteis practising their choreography as preparation for their worldwide tour. They

will be going to Malaysia soon, so they are practising for the concert. They are sure Malaysian

Inspiritsmust be waiting for their best performances.

While they are dancing The Chaser, and when they reach the part where Sungjong is in

the middle of them, something happens. Sungjong cannot dance his part properly. Doesnt The

Chaseris his favourite in Infinitizealbum?

Sungjong, why dont you step to your left? Dont you memorise the dance? Sunggyu

seems to get mad at him.

Be patient, hyung, Dongwoo tries to relax the situation.

Howon doesnt say anything. He is watching Sungjong from afar. He is so sure that

Sungjong is keeping something from them.

They continue dancing, leaving Sungjongs part incorrect. They believe Sungjong will learn

his mistake and he shall correct it himself. Furthermore, Sungjong is just recovering from his

dizziness. May be he is still at sea.

Do it slowly. Dont force yourself, advices Myungsoo with Sungyeol beside him nodding

to agree him.

Thank you, hyung. I appreciate it. Still, I am sorry for keep on making mistakes. Its my

fault, totally, Sungjong bows.

Its okay. We understand, Woohyun pats Sungjongs left shoulders. We wont mad atyou.

Sungjong shows his precious smile. They continue their practice. Howon keeps on

watching Sungjong without anyone notices. He realises Sungjong always shakes his head, may be

as his effort to get rid of dizziness, thats if he is having it. He really wishes to meet Sungjong

personally and forces him to tell the truth.

Luckily, Sungjong maintains until their practice ends. They head home and Sungjong is

sitting beside Woohyun at the hind seats in their MPV. Woohyun is busy babbling with the others

as he suddenly feels something lands on his shoulder. It is Sungjong and he is sleeping. His calmexpression lures Woohyun to stop talking rubbish among them. He lets Sungjong rests on his

shoulder and not even moves a bit. He does not want to disturb Sungjongs sleep and just

chuckles when he hears some funny things mentioned by the others.

While he stiffens himself, he feels his hand is pulled by someone. Again, its Sungjong

and looks like he is frowning. He gets himself nearer to Woohyun and whispers, Howon hyung,

please keep what you have seen happened onto me just now as a secret.

Woohyun is petrified. What? Something happened to Sungjong? But why no one knows?

Sungjong mentioned Howons name, so Howon shall know what the rubbish he was talking in hissleep. He mustmeet Howon!


9/25

***

Everyone has fallen asleep in their respective bedroom, except the two 1991-liners. They are

curious on something, both are about Sungjong. They need to know the truth. They really crave

for it.

Woohyun turns to see whether Sunggyu is sleeping or not. When he feels really confident,

he tiptoes to the door. He turns the knob and slowly walks out. He makes his ways to The Lees

room and is about to hit Sungyeols bed when someone approaches him.

Woohyun?

He turns 180 degrees and finds Howon stands before him. He feels in relief.

Its you, Howon. Im afraid not.

Are you stealing?

Woohyun squints. Do I look like that sort of human? Im not. I want to meet you,

actually, he would be frank.

Howon gapes. Meet me? Why?

Woohyun pulls Howon out of the room. It is only they two who are still awake so its not a

big deal to worry that someone might listen to them. Well, you know, in the MPV, I sat beside

Sungjong.

I knew it beforeyou realise, Howon replies slumber.

Woohyun squints again. He was asleep on our way home. He talked in his sleep.

Oh? Howon dilates, What did he babble?

He said, Howon hyung, please keep what you have seen happened onto me just now as a

secret. Its approximately that, so I want to know what shit he was talking actually from you.

So, he knew that I was watching him, Howon caresses his smooth chin before he

returns to look Woohyun, you know I feel like Sungjong is hiding something from us.

You feel so? Why?

Dont know. My instinct says so.

Woohyun releases a sigh. Its not helping me at all. I need to erase my curiosity.

You are not the only one. I forced Sungjong to tell me if he has problems but, you do

know how stubborn he is, dont you? He never listens to me.

May be only Myungsoo will work on him. I think so.

***


10/25

Sungyeol hears someone is calling him. He is a very sensitive guy, so even the sound of door hinge

will wake him up. He tries to find the direction where the soft voice comes from.

Hyung, where are you? the voice repeats the same question.

It says hyung, so it is Sungjongs since he is the youngest. Sungyeol leaves his bed andgoes to Sungjongs. The light from Howons bedside lamp helps him finding Sungjongs bed in the

not-so-dark situation. He quickly catches Sungjongs rumbling hands. Sungjong then smiles in

relief.

Luckily youre still here, Howon hyung, Sungjong says while grasping Sungyeols hands.

Sungyeol frowns. Was he calling Howon? Cant Sungjong see him?

He is about to ask Sungjong whether Sungjong sees him or not when Sungjong adds,

Howon hyung. I cantsee anything. Im sorry, but can you help me to get a glass of water? I am

thirsty.

Sungyeol does not have heart to refuse then imitates Howon. Hyung will do it. Wait.

Sungyeol exits the room. He sees Howon is with Woohyun, whispering among them about

the topic which Sungyeol does not know.

Hi guys, he approaches them, do not get enough sleep? Or troublesome matters hit

your head?

Nope, its about Sungjong, Woohyun replies without looking at his back to find out whoapproaches them. He knows its Sungyeol from his voice.

Speaking about him, Sungyeol gets nearer to the midnight couple, I smell something

fishy.

I smell your perfume. Dont you wash your shirt? Howon complains.

Sungyeol hurriedly snaps, I came to Sungjongs bed after I heard he was calling hyung

without knowing that he was calling you, Sungyeol points Howon which makes Howon startles, he

thought that I was you and wanted youto get a glass of water for him.

Why doesnt he go to the kitchen all by himself? He has two steady legs, Woohyun

pouts. He doesnt like to see his partner does others work.

That is what disturbing my peace of mind, Sungyeol sighs, he claimed that he couldnt

see anything. He even held out his arms just to search for youalthough your bedside lamp was

on.

Howon looks Woohyun. See?

Do you mean to listen? Woohyun corrects Howon.


11/25

That is disturbing me too, Sungyeol. I notice that he always shakes his head. He feels

dizzy. I think his view turns blurry so he cant see anything. Thats why he shakes his head often,

Howon explains to both Woohyun and Sungyeol.

Woohyun and Sungyeol stare the floor underneath them. They dont think anything. They

are imagining something. Is Sungjong really cannot see?

Go take a glass of water for him now, Howon breaks the silence.

Howon, I think he trusts you. Better if you go get it for him, suggests Sungyeol.

Howon, Woohyun holds both Howons shoulders, you are our only hope because he

thinks that only you know his problem. You must be closer to him so that he will tell you

everything.

I agree. But, Howon straightens his pointing finger, dont let others know. Just three

of us are enough. Im afraid that this will be an issue before we know what Sungjongs problem is.

Howon leaves Sungyeol with Woohyun in the living room to fetch a glass of water for

Sungjong. He goes to Sungjong and stops before he reaches his bed. After he has collected

enough strength, he proceeds.

Sungjong,this is your drink, Howon gives Sungjong the glass.

When Howon looks how Sungjong grazes to find Howons hand, he remembers Sungyeol.

He is right. Sungjong is even ruffling everything just to search for athing. He feels touched.

Tears form in his eyes. Sungjong drinks his drink Howon brought.

I wonder what took you too long in the kitchen.

Howon wipes his rolling tears and quickly pastes a plastic smile, I heated the kettle first.

Its only a few minutes, but I thought I was too excited that it was too hot. So I let it cool first

before handing it to you.

Sungjong smiles thus makes Howon lured to the precious. Thank you, hyung. Im sorry

for troubling you.

No, its okay, Howon takes the glass from Sungjongs hand when he sees Sungjong is

about to release the glass onto the floor. Just be frank, Sungjong? Are you okay?

Sungjong sighs. Well, hyung. I am, too, wondering why my eyes cannot see clearly as

usual. They appear blurry and I cannot guess why it is happening.

Howon dilates and only one thing he is thinking but he will not be going to tell Sungjong as

he afraid that it might frighten Sungjong.

***


12/25

On the next day, Infinitehas to attend to a live concert held at The Seoul Stadium. It is to

celebrate their victory in getting first place in several local music charts. They are the ones who

decide to hold the event there. It is to gather their fans and they have opportunity to meet

their idol and bias.

The stage is ready to be used and they are preparing themselves at the backstage.

Sungjong, like what he has complained to Howon before, cannot see everything clearly. His eyes

appear blurry and this is worrying him. He cannot guess any possibility on what is happening to

his eyes.

From the hind stage, they can hear all the fans cheer and scream their names; Sunggyu,

Dongwoo, Woohyun, Hoya(Howons commercial name), Sungyeol, L(Myungsoos commercial name)

and the maknae Sungjong. The seven seem to feel a bit nervous but they hide it with their smiles.

They line according to their age, Sunggyu is in front while the last is Sungjong. They then walk

onto the stage.

The scream is greater when they start their first song; Come Back Again. It is their

debut song. Shes Backand Before The Dawnare sung after that. Their awesome Scorpion Dance

makes the audience yell like hell.

Oppa! Saranghaeyo!

That is the moment when the dizziness attacks Sungjong again and he is dancing Be Mine,

the part when he is in the middle. He glares to the sky when the sickness attacks his head. His

movement turns slower. Howon able to see his changing attitude then slows his dance too.

After finish choreographing Be Mine, they are singing Real Story. Enough with pop songs,

they sing ballad. That time, Howon walks to Sungjong and cuddles his shoulders like brothers.

Sungjong glances him, understands what he is doing and lets him does so. Right at Sungjongs

part in Real Story, Howon can see how Sungjong frowns to withstand his headache.

It comes to their resting minutes. Howon holds Sungjong at his shoulders. He has been

too protective. Sungjong does not like being pampered in such way. He can walk by himself.

Hyung, please, let me go, Sungjongslowly removes Howons hand on his shoulders.

Howon blinks before he follows. He watches Sungjong drags himself to the sofa and

rests there. He wants to sit beside him but he just does not want Sungjong to feel stressed. He

wants Sungjong feels good and even better if no one disturbs him.

Sungjong~ Dongwoo comes and lilts his name, Are you all right?

I am, Sungjong quickly nods, But I still need some rest, hyung.

Hasnt your dizziness washed away?

Sungjong shakes. I think come backis the right phrase.

Dongwoo pouts. I hope you get to be healthy again, Sungjong. I miss you.


13/25

Sungjong is touched by Dongwoos confession. He misses me? Sungjong looks his hands.

They appear blurry, for the even-he-doesnt-know-how-much-time, in his view. Why?

I am so fine, hyung. You dont need to feel worry.

***

Infinite is coming on the stage again after their resting hour has ended when Sungjong

accidentally knocks a microphone stand down and almost hits Sunggyu in front of him. Sunggyu

luckily realises that the microphone stand is falling then saves it from hitting his body. He looks

Sungjong with frowns on his forehead.

Are you okay, Sungjong? You seem so sick, Sunggyu does not feel mad at Sungjong like

usually he did when Sungjong hit on something.

Yes, I am allright. Dont worry, Sungjong smiles a bit.

Truthfully, he does not want other than Howon knows about his eyes. Still Woohyun and

Sungyeol know about it without he recognises. He does not want to tell Sunggyu. But Sunggyu,

the leader, smells something unsettled. He canfeel the maknae is hiding something.

If you have something disturbs you, do tell us, he advices Sungjong.

Sungjong is just smiling. All right, hyung. I will if I do.

They appear on the stage and dance to Paradiseand The Chaser. They sing Withand Only

Tearswhen Sungjong loses his balance and almost hit Myungsoo. Myungsoo startles a bit.

Sungjong? Why? Myungsoo whispers as his part has been finished.

Sorry, hyung. Its hundred per cent my fault, Sungjong fans his sweating face.

Myungsoo scratches his head. Is Sungjong sick?

My love, are you sure? he pats Sungjongs nape.

Just then Sungjong feels that he wants to vomit. Something is coming up to his throat

due to the headache and it worsens when the sky is too bright for his eyes. He runs to the

backstage and heads to the loo.

The others dont seem to notice that Sungjong has been running from the stage to its

hind except Myungsoo. Coincidentally, Dongwoo is right beside him so he is telling him about

Sungjong. Dongwoo offers himself to go following Sungjong.

Myungsoo nods as he believes Dongwoo. Well, they always believe themselves. Dongwoo

meets a backstage staff and asks her whether she sees Sungjong. She claims that Sungjong runs

into her and hurriedly leave her dumbfounded after bowing to say sorry. Dongwoo follows the

way she points Sungjong was heading to and finds a male restroom.

He enters and checks each loo. He meets Sungjong gasping in the last one. Sungjong?


14/25

Sungjong stops gasping. He flushes the toilet bowl and turns slowly after he washes his

mouth with a nearest pipe. Who is that?

Its me, Dongwoo, Dongwoo kneels before Sungjong and holds his shoulders. You are

notokay, are you?

No, instead, Im absolutely okay, Sungjong pushes Dongwoos hands gently. I just

threw out a bit.

Dongwoo frowns. You were vomiting and you say that you areokay? Are you lying?

Im not, Sungjong protects his own self. Hyung, why dont you go out first? I will come

back after I gargle.

Dongwoo sighs at Sungjongs stubbornness. Yeah right, He then exits the loo and waits

Sungjong at the outside of the restroom. He listens to Sungjongs steps. Sungjong merely drags

his legs, not walking. He can recognise it by his speed of steps that a tortoise can laugh at. He

peeps into the restroom and sees Sungjong is touching the wall. It seems like the wall is his

guide. At first, Dongwoo wants to let Sungjong moves by himself. But he is shocked when

Sungjong suddenly falls. He immediately gets Sungjong.

Sungjong!

Sungjong manages to avoid his face from kissing the floor. He looks upward and sees

Dongwoo standing before him. Hyung, I thought you have left me in here.

I wont and luckily I didnt. Dongwoo helps Sungjong to stand steadily. What moves you,Sungjong?

Its nothing.

Just dont lie to me, Sungjong, Dongwoo persists, I know you are lying.

What if I werent?

You were not, but you are.

Sungjong dilates. Hyung, Im sorry.

Dongwoo guides Sungjong out of the restroom and lets him rests at the backstage

before he comes back on the stage and tells the other about the maknae.

***

The six members of Infinitecircle Sungjong. They glare like Sungjong steals their underwears.

Sung! Jong! the leader crosses his arms, tell us!

Sungjong blinks and is confused. Tell you what?


15/25

Be honest, Woohyun forces him to tell the truth, What disturbs you?

Sungjong bits his below lip. I

Sungjong, you are our beloved maknae. We love you, dont you see that? Sunggyu is

brainwashing Sungjong.

We dont want you to fall sick. If you do, so do we, Dongwoo confesses.

I love you although you are bullied by me. But its a way of myself to express my love,

Woohyun claims.

If you hide anything from us, or from me, we can know, Hoya reveals.

Just dont need tofeel shy. Were one, arent we? Sungyeol adds.

Enough every one, Sungjong cuts off. I have had enough. I told you, I am okay.

No, you lie, Woohyun ignores Sungjongs all right. I told you, I had watched you all day

long and I hope what I thought is not correct. Sungjong, are your head okay?

I Sungjong feels a bit losing. Mine is.

See? Woohyuns voice is rising monotone by monotone, Sungjong, take a break after

this concert. Go meet the doctor and dontdo anything!

Sungjong gulps. He never sees Woohyun turns that mad. Do Woohyun really love him?

He glances at Myungsoo. Myungsoo just stands metres from them, crosses his arms and

watches the scene happening at Sungjongs place from afar. Sungjong starts sweaty. Is

Myungsoo mad at him?

***

They let Sungjong sleeps first before they do. They want to look after Sungjong. They promise

to each others parents for being caring among them as they would be living under one roof

seems like until forever. So, when one of them falls sick, they fulfil their promises. They will give

the best service on taking care of the sick one and they will until he feels better.

Sungyeol and Howon watch the snoring Sungjong on his bed.

I think its no point if he keeps it from us. He will never lie to us, Sungyeol says.

I agree. Well, I dont tell Sunggyu hyung but Dongwoo hyung did, Howon comments.

At least, my anxiety has been washed away. It is such a relief that alas he admits it,

Sungyeol climbs to his own bed beside Sungjongs. Their beds are double decker, Sungyeol and

Sungjong sleep on the tops while Howons is under Sungjongs.


16/25

Howon goes to his bed and gets ready to sleep soundly. Tomorrow, we will cancel all our

activities scheduled. Sunggyu hyung agreed to this. Besides, he was the one who asked for it.

Then, they fall asleep. Without their knowledge, Sungjong gets up, pulls his backpack

with his ability to hide sounds so that Sungyeol will not be woke up, and exits the room, and even

the house.

***

Myungsoo cannot sleep. Although Dongwoo has fallen asleep and is letting out terrible snore, he

cannot follow his hyung. He is thinking of someone. Of course, he is thinking of Sungjong. He is

worried by Sungjongs admittance, Sungjongs sickness, or Sungjongs secret unrevealed.

He wishes that Sungjong follows Woohyuns advice for meeting the doctor in the next

morning. Sunggyu told the managers about him and they agreed to bring Sungjong to a hospital.

But the problem is Sungjong is too hard to listen to advice.

He misses the old Sungjong. Yes, Sungjong has not changed even a bit. But, he misses the

moment when Sungjong dances majestically, the moment when Sungjong pouts as he teased by

the elders, the moment when Sungjong laughs and do whatsoever happily. He misses that kind of

Sungjong. The recent Sungjong is killing him. Really, Sungjong has worried him to death.

Myungsoo feels anxious. He wants to see Sungjong, although it is just for a few seconds.

He wants to see his beloved maknaes true face, of course when he is sleeping. He is really

longing for Sungjong.

He strides to the Lees room and turns the door knob and peers into the room. He

directly looks Sungjongs bed. And he finds there is no one laying on it.

Sungjong? he calls the maknae.

But, yes, no one replies.

Sungyeol is the one who gets up instead of the one that he called earlier. Myungsoo , it

really is. Why are you in here?

Myungsoo gapes as Sungyeol blinks several times, hyung, where is Sungjong?

***

Sungjong walks very slowly to the nearest bus stop from their dormitory. He wants to return

back home; to his familys residence. He does not want the elders to know. He tried to call his

parents, but he couldnt see the screen of his cell phone. Well, he could, but what appeared is

what he cant reach.

Ah, he sighs. Luckily, he is able to see the empty seats under the roof of the bus stop.

He goes there and puts his backpack on one of the seats and sits beside it. He waits for a

midnight bus.


17/25

The clock almost strikes to 1 am but no bus is passing by. Sungjong starts to feel anxious.

Just where all the buses have been to, he complains.

Then, he hears of sounds of chatters and laughs of some guys, he bets as he doesnt see

who is, or who are, approaching his place in the darkness.

Hey, look, one of the guys says, its an idol. What is he doing here?

Idol? another voice, seems like there is one or two years older than Sungjong, says,

Well, I wonder where he wants to go with his backpack.

Then the gang let out evil laugh. Sungjong frowns. Are they not the good ones?

Excuse me, he feels a bit challenged yet he tries to control it, can I know who are you?

Who are we? Were the one who will rob you.

Suddenly, the gang attacks Sungjong. They are a few, maybe around seven, guys heed

Sungjong. Three of them take Sungjongs bag and bring it to nowhere. The other four, probably,

hold Sungjong.

Again, Sungjongs eyes become problematic ones. They dont function properly until

Sungjong cannot see who are holding his upper limbs.

You are an idol so you suppose to own much money, says, merely, the leader.

Sungjong grits his teeth. He still controls his anger. Let me go!

Hell not! the leader punches his midriff.

Sungjong gasps for fresh air. The others slap and hit him on his head. He is bullied

heinously.

Without no one notices, there is someone who is searching for Sungjong sees the scene

and he is able to see Sungjong the victim in between those gangsters.

Hey you! he approaches the leader and hit him on the face. The abrupt fight stops the

others.

The leader falls onto the floor. Who are you? he asks.

Im Myungsoo and dont you ever touch my dongsaeng! Myungsoo yells bravely thus

makes the gangsters split up.

Sungjong gasps and inhales fresh breath. He is saved by Myungsoo. Hyung, is that you?

he asks.

Myungsoo grabs Sungjongs hand. Yes, its me, Sungjong. Where have you been?

I wish to meet my family.


18/25

No you cant, Myungsoo forbids him.

No? But, can I know why?

Because, Myungsoo forces Sungjongto stand steadily, You went out without telling any

of us. What are you trying to do actually? Are you trying to make us worry? Huh?

Sungjong is petrified. He never sees that kind of Myungsoos anger. This is the first time

Myungsoo yells at him. Myungsoo loves him so much that he never raises his voice to Sungjong.

But that night, that night is the climax.

Cant you see how I love you somuch? Cant you see how I care for you? Cant you see

how anxious I am when you disappear like just now?

Sungjong bits his lower lip. He doesnt dare to cut off.

Now I command you to go home. Go to our dorm not to your parents. I mean it right now!Myungsoo points to one direction before them.

Sungjong pulls Myungsoos wrist, Hyung, I beg you. Dont bring me there.

If you refuse, I drag you there.

Sungjong sighs. Hyung, do you understand? I dont want to trouble anyone! All of you

face troubles each time you tried to confront my problem. You see that? I dont want to burden

all of you anymore.

Do you want to let us worry or your parents?

Sungjong keeps quiet.

See? You, yourself are in dilemma. Go back now.

No, Sungjong turns to ignore Myungsoo. He still wants to proceed.

Myungsoo half runs to Sungjong and hugs him from his back. By Sungjon gs ears, he

murmurs, Sungjong, I beg you. Please dont go. I loveyou. I miss you so much. We love you. We

miss you.

Sungjong stops.

We dont want you to fall sick. You are our only one maknae, there is no one able to

replace you. So please, dont leave us.

Sungjongs tears, without he notices, rolls down his fluffy cheeks. He, too, wishes that he

will never be away from Infinite.

Yeah, youre so true, Sungjong dips his face in Myungsoos arms and cries as much as he

wants. Myungsoo ruffles his hair and lets him sobs on his arms.


19/25

***

Both the maknaesarrive at their dorm after sobbing and crying for almost hours. They stopped

doing it after Sunggyu called Myungsoo to inquire him whether he already met Sungjong or not.

Myungsoo admitted that he was with Sungjong, and the same thing mentioned earlier by

Myungsoo by Sunggyu, the leader commanded both of them to come back home.

Sungjong is reluctant enough to go back to their dorm, but Myungsoos neat and strong

grip of hand makes him follows his hyung. He does not want to see Myungsoos real anger.

Sungjong, Myungsoo breaks the silence filling in between, I know that you are upset,

but dont you want to make us happy? Dont you want to see us happy? Dont you?

Sungjong palpitates. I hyung, he lowers his head, I am sorry.

No, Myungsoo inserts, I am the one who is wrong. I should take care of you as I am

taking care of my own life.

Hyung, Sungjongs voice grows harsh, I love you too.

Sungjong, please dont repeat it again, Myungsoo turns to Sungjong and caresses his

cheek with his right hand and ruffles his shiny hair with another hand.

Sungjong cannot push Myungsoos hands although he feels a bit so bad. He does not want

to see his hyung(s) sad. He never wants to see their tears roll down the cheeks. They are too

generous that they still care of Sungjong yet Sungjong defies them, always.

Minutes of walking from the bus stop, they arrive home.

Were home, Myungsoo is the one who appears first. Sungjong is behind him.

Instead of Woohyuns Welcome~ or Sunggyus Yah! Why are you late? or Dongwoos Hey,

were you meeting noona? or Howons Have you bought purple souvenirs for me? or Sungyeols

You are? Thank God. Join me drinking Americano, all five of them surround the couple with

glares and lower lips bit.

Sunggyu is the most in front compared to others. He is the leader, right?

Thank you, Myungsoo, he says with his cold stare lays on Sungjongs sparkling eyes.

Myungsoo nods once and step backward. Sungjong realises that Sunggyu is mad at him,

stiffens himself.

Lee. Sung. Jong. Sunggyu tries to brainwash him again. What have you done dude?

Sungjong blinks and shuts his mouth. He does not want to reply any questions as he

himself can see how angry his members are. He dares not to talk or even makes any sounds.

Do you know? Sunggyus voice upraised. He then dilates his already small eyes.


20/25

Sungjong is imagining terrible things that will be or possibly happening onto him after

that like being punished sleeping outside the dorm or no chocolate for two whole years or resigns

from the entertainment industry or else. He doesnt want any of those.

Sungjong, Woohyun draws to him nearer, I dont want to say this because I love you,

but no, I need to do so now. Sungjong, you are a kind of selfish one.

Sungjong gapes. He looks Woohyun into his eyes. Woohyuns squint means that he is

frustrated of Sungjongs attitude. He never thought that the maknaewould do that mean deed.

He thought that Sungjong would not dare to do so. But, he, or it is not impossible, everyone, is

wrong. Totally lie.

Sungjong, Howon and Dongwoo approach Sungjong together, Please dont repeat this

kind of behaviour. Or you will be hell.

Sungjong gulps. He once saw how Howon looked like when he was angry with someone andfrom those lines, he knows that Howon is. Dongwoo seems more comfortable to just listen to

others confession rather that joining them to babble on him.

Yah! Sungyeol comes and abruptly smacks Sungjongs back of head, So that is what you

want, huh? he frowns, Go ahead if you want so. Justgo! And dont you ever come back!

Sungjong cannot stand any longer. All those Infinitemembers are blaming him for their

anxiety caused by him. He cannot see how frustrated they are. He really wishes not to look their

current expressions.

Well, his dream is becoming true.

His view turns blurry. He at first thinks that its because he starts to weep but no, its

his problematic eyes again yet he does not notice. He faces the floor beneath him and deafens

himself so that he will not feel hurt by others.

Hey, Myungsoo gives a soft slap on his nape, Do you hear that? They mind about you.

They do so because they love you. We love you. After you left, we were worried to death. We

thought that you would be leaving us. Luckily I found you.

The sudden hit on his nape makes Sungjong moves affront a bit. He cannot control hisbody balance thus falls onto floor. He manages to save himself by kneeling before his face kisses

the floor. The others are shocked. They hurriedly go to Sungjong and help him to stand.

Sungjong, are you all right? Dongwoo is the nearest to Sungjong inquires first.

Sungjong looks him at a glance before he replies, Ithink its the time to tell you the

truth.

***


21/25

Sunggyu acts like a captain on the boat. He has to think deeply before making any decision that

able to change either his life. Oh, the simile is too much. Well, merely he is thinking the right

idea to fix Sungjong.

The best is, Sunggyu pats Sungjongs shoulder, Go meet the doctor.

Hyung, Sungjong refuses as he doesnt like hospital, I dont want and I wont.

Sungjong, dont be stubborn please, Myungsoo attempts to coax him. You are unwell

still you are hard headed.

We will be with you. By yourside, Sungyeol gives a broad grin, almost shows his gums.

We are one, arent we?

Sungjong alas agrees to his leaders opinion. He and the members then go to the hospital

after they have their late breakfast.

***

And yes, the result is grim.

Sungjong has no difference as those crazy ones out there. He is staring the white and

plain wall for hours, not having his meal for days, and doesnt get enough sleep almost a week. His

changes make the members worried of him.

I wonder if he has accepted the fact, Howon sighs.

If I were him, I cant either. Myungsoo squints. It feels like the doctor is whispering

into my ears, mentioning bout it.

Howon returns to look Sungjong. He has become as messy as he wishes he will be 90

years later. He sometimes moves his lips, he seems like talking but there is no one with him and

no voice is heard while he is doing so.

Sunggyu comes to him and sits beside him.

Leaveme, hyung. Sungjong does not lift his head.

Hey, when have you become this rude to me? Sunggyu scoffs.

Sungjong ignores him.

Everyones attempts have failed. Sungjong never listen.

From my investigation, the doctor uses his very serious tone, it seems like your view is

fading day by day. From your whole familys health history, its not impossible that you are

sufferingglaucoma.

Huh, its another Biological thingy. Sungyeol moans, Dongwoo hyung, translate it for me.


22/25

I wont. Do you expect me to explain it to you? Hey, I will not.

Sungyeol then pouts.

What is glaucoma, doctor? since Sungjong seems petrified by the news, Sunggyu asks

the doctor for more details on Sungjongs behalf.

Its a disease when your eyes vision is becoming blurry due to infection in the retina. Or

it could be caused of genetic. You had told me about one of your fathers siblings that suffers

blindness too, hadnt you?

Sungjong can only gape. He leans his back at the seat he is sitting on and lets out sighs

by sighs. Sunggyu grasps his hand to give or to supply, merely, a little strength.

Your eyes vision field is decreasing, Mr Lee. You have only about four months to be able

to see before you become blind completely, adds the doctor.

Sungjong reminisces the doctors news to him days before that. While Sunggyu is sitting

beside him, and Myungsoo and Howon and Sungyeol are about to arrive at their current spot,

Sungjong reaches a cushion and punches it several times before he throws it to the plain wall

and lets out various cursing words. He yells like crazy.

All those, of course make Sunggyu, Howon, Sungyeol and Myungsoo immerse in

astonishment. They dont think Sungjong will be throwing tantrum that way. They never think so.

Sungjong they know is the one that is always bullied due to his generosity. Sunggyu, since he is

the nearest, immediately hugs Sungjong to lock him from hurting others or himself. He drags

Sungjong to lie on the floor to calm him down. Sungjong doesnt seem to follow. He struggles as

to make Sunggyu release him from his tough arms.

Sungjong! Sunggyu yells to his ears, but Sungjong slaps him.

Yah! this time Sunggyu loses his temper. He does let Sungjong off fr om his hug but

then he pushes Sungjong to the floor. He locks Sungjongs shoulders with his palms. Listen to

me, Sungjong!

Sungjong breathes exuberantly. Let me go!

Please help me! Sunggyu means to Sungyeol and Howon and Myungsoo.

They come to the rescue. Each of them holds Sungjongs left arm and right arm and both

legs. Sungjong now cannot move even an inch.

Sungjong, please dont act like there is punishment day happening tomorrow! You still

have a chance to have everything!

And what is it?


23/25

Sunggyu shuts Sungjongs mouth with his palm. That old man (the doctor) said that you

have about four months left. He said, about, he emphasizes, but you act like you are going to

die two hours after this.

Sungjong looks the figure that locks his limbs. He, absolutely, cannot see who is sitting

on his midriff until suffocates him yet he knows that the figure is Sunggyu from his high pitch

voice. He glances to other direction.

Look into my eyes, maknae!

Where are they?

Sunggyu turns silent. He almost forgets thatfact.

Sungjong, I am not putting myself in your shoes. But, if you want anything before that

period ends, just tell any of us. We will be beside you, Sunggyu slows his voice down.

Sungjong becomes calmer too. He is able to breathe properly and is looking in front. He

realises drops of tears fall onto his fluffy cheeks. Its Sunggyus.

Hyung.

Shh, Sunggyu gets up and commands the others to do the same, Just rest and think

thoroughly. We will be waiting.

***

Its not even a fortnight that it happens. One fine Monday morning, the day he and the members

promise to go to the beach where they filmed Shes Back three years ago, he finds himself

cannot see the world fully. He only sees darkness and yes, this upsets him much more.

When he gets up from his sleep on that morning, he knows that he is blind already when

he cannot be able to see anything although he rubs his eyes for times. He wishes to tell Howon

under his bed but even the stairs for him to climb downstairs is invisible to him. He just calls

Howon from his bed until Howon wakes up.

Yes, Sungjong? Howon, as usual, plays a role as a big brother to Sungjong.

Hyung, help me, Sungjong murmurs, I

Howon recognises something different in Sungjongs tone then climbs up the stairs. He

gets Sungjong in his arms. Sungjong, what has happened?

Im sorry, hyung, Sungjong cries bitterly. I I cannot see you anymore.

What? But its not even a month!

Sungjong cuddles Howon and Howon has no choice but to reply. He lets Sungjong weeps

while buries his face into Howons broad chest. He says something while crying nevertheless

Howon cannot hear it clearly.


24/25

Sungjong, its okay, Howon tries to persuade him,We will be with you.

Sungjong hopes that its always true. Becoming blind is not a small thing to deal with.

Hyung, Im sorry but Im blind now. He grips Howons shirt and wishes the moment is stopped.

***

Infinite is going to a concert in Malaysia. They have been preparing here and there, included

Sungjong. They are getting ready to practice Paradise in the training hall near State Stadium

when Sungjong enters the room with a broad smile.

Hyung!

The six turn to look to him. Why do you look so gay? Sungyeol is still with his choding

image.

The managers are letting me perform with you guys.

They did but we wont, Woohyun crosses his arms, Go rest there Sungjong!

Sungjong pouts. But I have memorised the choreography! I do!

No, Sungjong! Woohyun gets him quickly, I wont let you dance in this condition,

Sungjong.

Sungjong smiles, All right then, hyung. Still I will watch your performances soon.

Woohyun kisses Sungjongs cheeks with his. Thats my love, Sungjong.

What do you mean by my love? Hes mine, got it? Myungsoo comes and crosses his arms

too. Angry facial expression is he is wearing.

Are you trying to stealhim from me?

It seems like Myungsoo and Woohyun will start a fight. Its a childish one. Sunggyu and

Dongwoo butt in to their matter. Hey guys, dont cause havoc in here. Both of them frown and

hands around their waists.

Howon and Sungyeol make their way to Sungjong. Sungjong, Malaysia is a wonderful

country. The people here are nice and pretty, they are polite too. They are amazing yet their

outfit look simpler. Their food is delicious, I tasted some earlier. I wonder if you like nasi lemak,

Sungyeol has been a chatterbox in their world tour in Malaysia.

Hes right, Sungjong. If you want too, we will bring it foryou, Howon offers.

Sungjong gently refuses, Sorry, hyung, but Ive caused troubles to you. They are many

enough that I cannot repay.

You dont need to, Sungjong. We will do it for you, Howo ruffles Sungjongs bangs.


25/25

Sungyeol leans himself against Sungjongs body, Hey, dude. He thinks twice before

questions him. I wonder if you still love your eyes. Your beautiful pair of eyes, I mean.

Sungjong faces to the direction of Sungyeols sounds. I cant even watch my own eyes,

hyung. I wonder how they look like now.

You dont need to know, Howon interferes, They are still pretty like you. The fact

that dark circles and eye bags start to form at Sungjongs eyes is always kept by the members

as they know it will make Sungjong yells like hell.

***

Its Sungjong on the screen! Sunggyu motions his hand towards the screen before them. Say

hi, fans!

Hi, Sungjong oppa! the fans cheer as they can see Infinitemaknaeon the screen.

Sungjong looks directly to the camera and waves with wide smiles. Hi, fans. Inspirit! I

miss you! He says and at the same time he is hiding his sorrowful eyes tale.

The fans scream like crazy when Sungjong does Hiyung Hiyung aegyoon the screen.

I am sorry for not able to appear in front of you guys. I hope you know because I am not

going to repeat this for another several times. All that I can say that keep supporting Infinite

and love us as much as you can. Love you, Inspirit!

Well, that is what happening as Infinite is hiding their problems from public. No one,perhaps, knows that they have suffered of sort of troubles in their career life. Really no one

knows.

Will they reveal it? Think not.

Authors note: Hi, I am Lee. Its my nickname. Writing fan fiction sounds cool to me so I

tried writing once before of Infinite, my favourite Korean boy group. Truthfully, I only like

them in K-pop world. Be Mine Before The Dawn is my very first fan fiction of them, so my

grammar could be worse than now. Finish with it, I continued with The Weak and The

Wicked. It sounds a bit strange and yes it is. Its about a quadrilateral love oh what it is

named I dont know and I havent finish the story. The school stuffs choke me and I am

busy struggling with it. Lately, I had problem in connecting my internet so I used my netbook

to write another fan fiction (this fan fiction I meant, its Taken Gift). Can I call it one shot

one? I think I can. It has no chapter but the story is quite long. I mean, quite. So if there is

happened to this fan fiction to have its own readers, Im glad and comments will be pleased.

Documents

Taken Gift - Infinite Fan Fiction by Lee Su Jo