candyquokka

[candyquokka]

[candyquokka]

stay (forever, if you’d like) — lee know x reader ; the six times he asks you to stay (2.3k words)

happy bday lee know, you are my light

one.

There’s this thing about Minho—in the way his eyebrows are furrowed, eyes sharp, and lips always in a tight line. It’s why they call him cold, unapproachable. The same people that have intrigue and intimidation written on their faces when they lay eyes on the boy.

They just don’t know him.

His eyes are a lot softer than they describe. They’re wide, wonder-like, and they shine with something you can’t quite identify, but there. Present. There is so much you can decipher with a single look—mischief, pain, sincerity, love.

Those same eyes are looking at you right now. Almost pleading, but painfully trying not to look obvious.

“It’s getting dark outside.” He acts as if he isn’t the reason you’re still at his dorm.

Attempts at leaving, all in vain, flash before your eyes. You have to admit, your best friend is nothing but convincing, and a little manipulative in how he keeps you captive until there is reason for you to stay. “You should stay.”

You can hear the kettle whistling from a distance. It’s water for tea with measurements for two, like he knew you wouldn’t leave.

“Min.” You let out a breathy laugh. He’s almost detached himself from the couch he’d sprawled himself on earlier, inching closer and closer and closer until he gets the answer that he wants.

It’s obviously for your safety, it’s dangerous walking along at night. You would be stupid not to stay. That’s what he tells himself, but there is a feeling in his stomach telling him there’s more to it. He really really doesn’t want to think about it right now.

“Fine,” you sigh.

“Good decision. It seems that you value your life after all,” he says. There’s a hint of a smile playing on his lips that he doesn’t quite show. You can always tell, though. It’s usually when he gets something he wants.

“But I’m leaving first thing in the morning.”

(You won’t.)

two.

seungmin (2:03am): pls pick minho up. drunk

You have to look at Seungmin’s message twice before it properly registers.

You remember Minho telling you he wouldn’t be drinking tonight, but it seems there’s been slight changes to his plans. You wonder if Jisung’s peer pressure finally worked on him tonight.

yn (2:05am): omw

Your dorm is only a few minutes away from where they’re drinking, and your best friend had asked you to come with him earlier, but you’d decided against it. You weren’t in the mood for the stench of alcohol in your nasal cavity.

Though, with your sudden task of picking the boy up, it seems unavoidable now.

It isn’t difficult to spot him. The moment you’re merely a block away, you find Minho just outside with a sleeping Felix on his shoulder. Their backs are slouched, and his eyes look like they’re fighting not to close.

“(Name)!” Seungmin calls out for you first, and it’s hard to miss Minho’s head pointed directly in your direction the moment your name slips out of his friend’s mouth, like he’s been looking there this whole time.

“It was fun to have blackmail material at first, but now I’m just tired.” The younger boy sighs.

You laugh, and something bitter bubbles in the sitting boy’s stomach. He lets himself sit on the feeling for quite a while. Jealousy is an ugly monster, but he doesn’t know that yet. “Please take care of him.”

When you crouch in front of Minho, the scowl on his face softens.

“You’re here.” He mumbles, exhaustion dripping from his voice. He reaches out to you, and Seungmin mutters something you don’t quite hear.

“Did you have fun?”

“Mmm,” he hums. He’s really drunk. And by his curtained eyes and his lack of dignity, you can tell he’s a goner. And so is the sleeping boy next to him.

You look around to see if there’s a convenience store nearby. Water would be a good buffer to the eventual hangover that’s waiting for them in the morning.

“‘M just gonna buy some wat—”

“Stay.” He interrupts you, just loud enough that you get a whiff of the whiskey he’d been drinking.

“You’ll feel better if you drink water.” Your eyes flicker to the convenience store for a moment before refocusing on your best friend.

A visible frown crosses his features, and his skin is flushed out from drinking. “You just arrived. Stay, please?” The way he begs entices you, because it’s not often that your best friend pleads.

“You’re saying please? You must be really drunk.” You laugh before falling to sit next to him in resignation. There is no arguing with him, not when he’s gripping the bottom of your shirt and tugging for you to stay with him for a moment.

Then there’s a sudden weight on your shoulder. He mirrors the way Felix is laying on him.

Five minutes pass.

“Wanna nap.” He mumbles. Minho feels so much like a child like this.

“You can sleep at my dorm tonight.”

“You’ll stay with me there?” He asks, almost innocent. He lifts his head from your shoulder momentarily and looks at you—eyes hazy and hair fucked out from the harsh winds of the early morning. And yet, he still looked pretty. Even at 2 in the morning.

“Mhm, but we have to go now.” Minho groans when your warmth suddenly leaves him, but he doesn’t have time to dwell when your hand meets his vision, outstretched for him to hold.

Seungmin whisks Felix awake.

“Okay.” He grabs your hand with a tired grip, and your bones rattle at how he intertwines your fingers. As if he’s always held your hand that way. And he keeps it that way until you arrive just ten minutes after.

Minho crashes on your couch before you can even hand him a glass of water.

three.

“Stay.” Stone cold sternness.

Minho doesn’t boss you around, at least, never seriously. He knows you hate being told what to do, but there is something about the circumstances right now, something in the fear of your voice, that has him using imperatives.

“Just—” He cuts himself off, trying to keep himself calm.

Even through a phone call, you know what face he’s pulling. That scowl, lips shut, eyes angry. “Stay with Chan. I’m on my way.”

“I don’t know why he’s here.” Fear drips from your voice far too easily and your painstricken words make it difficult for the boy not to speed. Your ex-boyfriend has always tried keeping contact with you despite your obvious distaste. He makes you uncomfortable, and he has aggression tendencies.

The thought of him makes Minho step on his accelerator. He’s thankful Chan is with you. Had he not, Minho would’ve been in deep trouble with the law enforcement.

“You’re with Chan, right?”

“Yes.”

“Okay. Good.”

When he arrives, he asks his friend to lead you to his car.

Minho is really angry, and the sight of your ex-boyfriend kicks things up a higher notch. You don’t know what he’s about to do, but he’s scary when he’s upset. Chan tries to take your attention away, but the dynamic in Minho’s voice is too loud. It’s the one he doesn’t like to use on anyone he cares about.

“You’re lucky we’re in public. If you so much as look at my best friend, I’m going to kill you.” There is no remorse when he speaks, and his fists are balled up tight. He’s trying his best not to use them. “Fuck you.”

He returns to you and Chan no longer than five minutes, but definitely long enough to scare off your ex-boyfriend. Chan hands him his car keys, and Minho says nothing the entire ride home. His anger is still evident, almost seething off of him.

“Are you okay?” He asks long after Chan is gone, and it’s only the two of you just outside your dorm. The night air is crisp, cold in contrast to the overwhelming heat he’d felt earlier. “I’m sorry if I scared you. I didn—”

Minho shuts his mouth when you suddenly wrap your arms around him. “Thank you.”

The rage melts from his face, features softening. He brings his own arms around you.

He stays the night at your dorm.

four.

They’re so pretty!”

Your face stands out in the sea of spring’s flowers. You’re unaware of the way he’s looking at you, eyes shifting in excitement.

“I hope the bees sting you.” You roll your eyes at him, dropping your vision to continue admiring the fields of flowers. They’ve bloomed so beautifully.

Minho disappears for a moment, but you don’t worry too much. He was probably looking for the nearest bench. You’d dragged him out after all. He hasn’t changed at all since you’d gotten together. He was still stubborn, and yet sickeningly sweet when he wanted to.

Your boyfriend comes back with his hands behind his back, and it has you squinting at him. What could he be up to this time?

He’s suddenly standing impossibly close to you, and you almost lose the rhythm of your breathing with how close he is. You don’t think you’ll ever get used to this. “Stay still.”

His hand reaches out towards you, fingers pushing a few strands of your hair away. A quiet heartbeat later, he pulls back, and the only difference you feel is something pinched just behind your ear. You wonder if it’s what you think it is.

(It is. An unassuming flower decorates the side of your face.)

Minho’s heart softens at the sight. “Pretty.”

The sight of you brings spring’s flowers to shame, he thinks.

five.

Arguing has always been something that wasn’t easy for the both of you, especially Minho. He hated fighting, but sometimes, it couldn’t be helped.

It’s how you found yourselves with puffy eyes and red noses. You barely remember what you were arguing about in the first place, but you have an overwhelming urge to leave. You think it’s so the fight doesn’t escalate, and because you don’t like that look on his face.

You say nothing when you move to open the door.

“What are you doing?” He sighs. He’s hesitant if he should step forward or not.

“I’m leaving.”

“You can’t.”

“I can, and I will.” You sniffle, a hand coming up to wipe your stubborn tears before planting on the doorknob of your shared apartment. “I hate it when we fight.”

“You don’t think I hate it too?” He frowns, hand hovering over yours. “But leaving isn’t the right option right now. Just stay, and we’ll talk about it more in the morning. I know you’re tired, but please. Stay.”

You cry even more into his chest, but he couldn’t be less bothered at the snot that’s staining his shirt. He brings you closer by your waist, hand patting down on your hair to quietly try and soothe you. He regrets letting the argument escalate this far. “I’m sorry.”

“‘M sorry for ruining your shirt.” You pull away, eyes trained on the big wet stain decorating the shirt he’s wearing.

“It’ll dry by tomorrow morning.” He reassures you, swaying the both of you gently. “Please don’t ever think about leaving.”

There’s something about the pain in his eyes that has your heart breaking further, and the way he bends down to cup your cheeks softly in his hands. He doesn’t reek of frustration anymore.

“Wasn’t gonna.” You mutter.

“You scared me for a second.” He shakes your head in his palms slowly before pressing a wet kiss on your lips. Your face is warm from crying. “Just… stay.”

(Forever, if you can. If you’d like.)

six.

You wake up to find him already looking at you, though he’s barely awake himself.

A greeting sits on his tongue, of your third anniversary, but he swallows it down for a moment. “Did you sleep well?” He asks instead, voice a little husky from the morning air.

“Hmmm.” You yawn, feeling something tickle just behind you. You know it’s one of the cats. They’ve grown into the habit of joining you and Minho in bed lately.

He smiles at you softly, arms reaching out to tug you back against his warm, very shirtless chest. And while you’d hate to ruin the quiet of the morning, you know you have to leave in a bit. You’d promised to run a quick errand.

“Baby, have to go.” You giggle when his grip only tightens around you. It’s never easy peeling yourself out of bed with Minho.

“How mean, already trying to leave me on our anniversary.” You know he’s pouting by the way he talks to you. You can only laugh—breathy and genuinely happy.

“I’ll be quick.” You whisper, and you hear a quiet ‘meow’ from your left.

“The babies would hate to see you go.” He whines.

“How classy of you to use them against me.” He smirks quite proudly, limbs still heavy over you. He refuses to let you go, not when your skin on his is a reminder of the things that had happened the night before, not when it feels this comfortable.

The sun continues to seep through the blinds to join the both of you, a taunting reminder that you really had to leave. You try to tug your arm free, but his fingers dig deeper into your skin.

“I’ll be right back.” You try to convince him, but all he does is plant a kiss on your neck before burying his face back into the scent of your hair. You know there’s no talking this out with Minho.

“Stay.” You can’t help the way your heart swells at a single word. “You won’t regret it.”

You have a feeling there’s a different connotation to his words. You think you know what.

“Fine.” You know there was never a chance that he’d let you go, even if you tried to wriggle yourself out.

He smiles. “Just wanna stay like this a little bit longer.”

Minho meets your lips like it’s the perfect time to do so. It is, always. He kisses you sweetly, gently, like there wasn’t anything else to do. He doesn’t make a move even when his phone rings somewhere in the room.

And you’ll stay. And stay, and stay, and stay.

Forever.

You think you’d like that.

[candyquokka]

In real life | part 1

-> You and Jisung get trapped in a fanfic, and the only way out is to play matchmaker for the main pairing. Hopefully feelings don't get confused or misplaced...oh shit.

college!au, trapped in a fanfic!au, enemies to friends to lovers

gamer!Jisung x creative writer!fem!reader; fanfic!minho x fanfic!oc

13.9K

cursing, teasing, Jisung thinks fanfics are stupid at first, so much banter, sexual tension, a lil suggestive language, kissing, embarrassing moments /second hand cringe, and over the top dramatic-ness bc this is a fanfic within a fanfic what did you expect, Teen Beach Movie vibes

Italicized is the fanfiction the character is reading

I wrote this a while ago with a different idol but I think it fits Jisung so well I had to adapt it :) bonus points if you recognize it or can guess who the original idol was lol

-------------------------------------------------------

"You're still here."

"I'm still here."

Minho doesn't know what to say. He's been a total jerk, oblivious to what's been right in front of him this entire time.

"I thought you would have left already," he says with downcast eyes.

Yes, you should have left. There's no healthy reason to wait around for such a hopeless cause. He's been nothing but cruel, doing the things he did, saying the things he said.

"You're right, for once," you admit, shamelessly standing before him, "but there's still something I have to say."

Minho leans back into his signature ‘I don't care’ pose. It's a defense mechanism. You know because you've seen it before. At the school dance when he supposedly didn't try to kiss you.

Surely, you're going to scold him for his actions. Tell him off. Curse him out. It would be an appropriate response given what he did. It's only fair.

But you open your mouth and the most curious, unexpected words spill out.

"Minho, you've done everything to make me hate you. And I know why. You're scared, I get it. I'm scared too. But that isn't a reason to push me away. The truth is…no matter what you do…I'll always be here. Because I love–”

"Hey! Give that back!”

Your phone is suddenly snatched from your hand, your eyes following it helplessly over your head to the bleacher behind you.

“Sharing is caring, ___, let the rest of the class have a turn.”

Han Jisung. Teaser extraordinaire and the only student you know who got a legit scholarship to a legit university for gaming. That's right, this geek got into university by playing video games. A fact that has continued to irk you after you worked your butt off to graduate high school early and still only got into your third university of choice.

"What is this?" He snickers at the screen, giggling among his so-called friends who always follow him around. "He suddenly grabs your waist, pulling you against his firm body to kiss you with so much passion you feel your heart is going to–"

You swipe your phone back, slapping his hand in the process. "Don't steal people's stuff!"

"Was that fanfiction? Wait, you actually read that crap?" He belly laughs, almost falling off the back of the bleachers, but his groupies catch him just in time.

Too bad.

You shut off the screen with the app still open and stuff your phone in your jean pocket, turning to the front with crossed arms and a pout.

"Mind your own business, Jisung.”

"Do you like it when guys randomly grab you and kiss you?"

"No," you answer a bit too quickly, "like I said, mind your own business."

"Aw, come on.” Jisung nudges your shoulder. ”I didn't mean it like that. Lighten up, it's the first game of the season."

No, he just enjoys teasing you for your reactions. Of course, you try not to let him bother you because, to be honest, he isn't worth your time. But he has this way of getting you all riled up. Stealing your phone, eavesdropping on your conversations, spamming your DMs with that one fancy duck meme that makes you uncomfortable, but he keeps sending it anyway.

You try to ignore him, but he's attached himself to you for stupid reasons. His whole purpose in life must be to make you miserable.

The school's basketball team makes another score on the court and the crowd starts cheering, a good enough opportunity as any to slip away. Just goes to show what having school spirit will get you.

You should have stayed in the dorms and worked on your creative writing final like you originally planned.

"Hey, where are you going?" Jisung calls down the bleachers, but you don't reply.

You have to duck and weave because the stadium is packed like crazy. It's impossible not to bump into shoulders, unfortunately.

Someone grabs your wrist just as you manage to reach the concession stands. You turn around in surprise, but it quickly turns to aggravation.

"You're leaving already?" Jisung asks.

"Yes, I'm leaving. Let go, please."

"Sorry..." He immediately drops your hand. "But it's only half time. Don't you wanna stay a little longer?"

"I've got an assignment anyway."

"Do it later. Come watch the rest of the game with me."

"Why on Earth would I want to do anything with you, Jisung?”

"Whoa," he puts his hands up in surrender, "did I do something?"

"Is it really that shocking? We don't really know each other that well."

"Then let's get to know each other. Go on a date with me."

It's a prank. He can't be serious about this. Jisung found out you like fanfiction and now he's trying to make your heart race by sticking his hands in his pockets and half smirking like he's charming or something.

"Why should I?"

"Because I like you."

"No, thanks."

His smirk turns downward, shoulders slumping. "Why not?"

"I don't like you like that.”

"That's the point of dating," he says with a confident tilt of his head. "You may like me once you get to know me."

"I don't want to date the guy who steals my phone and teases me for my interests.”

"You're right, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have stolen your phone. Even if it was the only way I could think of to get you to talk to me," he says with a shy chuckle. “But fanfiction, really? That stuff is for hopeless romantic fangirls."

"I'm guessing you wouldn't want to date a hopeless romantic fangirl, huh?"

"Well, no."

"Then you don't want to date me."

"Come on, that not what I--"

Fans behind you start to bustle, pouring into the open space of vendors and snack bars and bathrooms. The sea of chattering people thickens until it's too loud to hear anything else without shouting.

The conversation is over anyway, so you share one last look and walk away.

His eyes were...disappointed. Sad even.

The crowd is thick and difficult to maneuver. It doesn't help that you're not nearly as tall as half the male fans here. Nonetheless, you press on, trying to slip through holes and low tunnels in the crowd to evade any further conversation with your nemesis.

It blows your mind because this stuff only happens in kindergarten. Teasing you because he likes you? It didn't even cross your mind. No college graphic design major is that emotionally immature, right? If he really likes you, he should treat you with respect like a gentleman.

You squeal when a large shoulder hits you square in the face, complete disregard for the person they just ran into.

Stumbling back, you brace yourself for a harsh collision with the cold cement floor. When a pair of secure arms catch you at the last moment.

"You okay?"

You peer up to find Jisung holding you securely against his chest.

"Yeah," you reply, pulling your legs back underneath you again, but he keeps his arms around you. "Thanks."

"People never pay attention at these things. Let me walk you out–"

He's interrupted when another rough nudge to his back sends him jerking forward, feet shuffling to keep from falling on top of you. His lips lightly brush your nose.

That was close.

You scrunch your nose instinctively, making yourself smaller within his arms when they naturally squeeze around you.

"I'm so sorry...that was an accident, I swear..." he mutters with a light blush on his cheeks, watching your expression with concern.

You have to get out of here.

You push away from his chest, too embarrassed to say anything else. Looking down, you trudge through the rest of the crowd and make a bee-line for the exit.

It's so much easier to breathe once you're outside. Puffs of warmth escape your lips when your head falls back with a large sigh. Finally some evening coolness on your cheeks.

Muffled squeaks of sneakers on the court and groans from the audience are all you need to know the game has resumed. Jisung must have gone back then. There's no way he followed you all the way out here after that–

"___! Wait up!"

"You've got to be kidding me," you whisper to yourself before tuning around.

This dude cannot take a hint.

"I'm sorry for…back there. I got bumped. It was a mistake. I would never, I mean, that's not me. I'm not that guy."

You offer a small nod, arms wrapped around yourself. "It's fine."

"Are you cold? You should've brought a jacket."

"Well, I didn't because I figured I would be inside for most of the evening.”

"Here, you can have mine."

"Don't." You quickly stop him when he starts to strip his outer layer. “I don't need your jacket, Jisung.”

"But–"

"I'm not trying to encourage anything, okay? Please, don't give me your jacket."

He slowly pulls it back over his shoulders with a frown when you tuck your hands into your crossed arms, a slight shiver running through your shoulders.

"At least let me walk you to the dorms. It's dark."

"I'll be fine. Goodnight, Jisung.”

He doesn't respond, but you can feel his eyes on the back of your head as you walk away.

Okay, maybe you feel kinda bad turning down his jacket since you are freezing, and he could have just been trying to be considerate. But knowing he has something akin to a crush, you just couldn't accept it with a clear conscience. Especially not right after turning him down so blatantly.

It's not your fault he decided to express his feelings as if you're in kindergarten and not university for crying out loud.

So what, you like fanfiction? Lots of people do. It's an escape from the disappointment of reality, and everyone needs some of that at some point. Come on, Jisung plays video games for hours a day! Sure, some of it is for his major but he's probably also trying to escape reality part of the time, and you don't blame him.

You pull your phone out of your pocket and open up the tab for your fanfic, finding the spot where you left off. A little escape from reality and distraction from the cold sounds nice right about now.

But you open your mouth and the most curious, unexpected words come out.

"Minho, you've done every single thing to make me hate you. And I know why. You're scared, I get it. I'm scared too. But that isn't a reason to push me away. The truth is…no matter what you do…I'll always be here for you. Because I love–”

He suddenly grabs your waist, pulling you against his firm body to kiss you with so much passion you feel your heart is going to explode.

His lips are perfect against yours, like pillows of sweetness and safety. Like you've never felt before. He must have some kind of superpower, because with one kiss, all that fighting and all that pretending dissolves away. His arms wrap around you, pulling you into his chest and squeezing…

You shake your head when an image of Jisung's arms around your frazzled frame appears in your mind.

…squeezing you so close you can feel his heartbeat through his white t-shirt.

Minho's hands follow the curve of your waist, allowing the kiss to keep pace for a moment, enjoying your taste, the warmth of your body and the coolness of your lips.

He pulls away from the kiss and takes a deep breath. His fingers gently brush your hair from your face, forehead leaning against yours lovingly as he gazes into your eyes. It feels like a scene from a movie.

He smiles that wickedly beautiful smile and whispers soft and low…

"Watch out!!"

Your arm is grabbed right when you lift your eyes from your phone, the blinding headlights of a car coming right at you.

There's not enough time to even gasp.

All you recognize is the suddenness of your body being jerked back, a stinging pain shooting up your arm and into your shoulder, and the twist of your ankle over the curbside.

Maybe it's your imagination, but you swear that was Jisung’s jacket you saw right before you faceplant into the sidewalk, and everything goes black.

::

His head is pounding when he finally comes to. Rivers of red behind his eyes like poison threaten to overtake his vision. Even after he tries to blink them away, they persist for a moment.

"What the…" Jisung groans.

Just as he starts to make sense of where he is in space, a body next to him starts to stir as well.

Slowly, you shift where you lay on his arm, rubbing your head where you must have hit it on the sidewalk too.

"Are you okay?"

You sit up, a hand on the side of your neck as you twist to help with the stiffness. Your neck pops and that helps a lot.

"I think so. Did you…” Your eyes land on Jisung and his position on the ground. "Thank you."

"Don't mention it," he sighs and sits up with you, "just look where you're going from now on."

"I will."

"Sure your head is okay?"

"It's pounding a little," you confess.

"Mine too," Jisung replies, pulling your ripped sweater back over your shoulder.

And then the most extraordinary, unexpected thing happens.

The moment is suddenly in slow-mo. The action of his hand brushing your skin when he moves your sleeve, the way his eyelashes softly flutter when he looks at you. The background blurs into a mass of nothingness, there's a soft hum of a melody coming from somewhere and fairy lights around his face like a filter. You're completely enraptured in the moment, physically unable to look away from him.

When he's finished helping cover your shoulder, the world returns to normal.

Perhaps you hit your head a little harder than you thought. It's playing tricks on you now.

"Hey, Jisung?"

"Yeah?"

"Can I ask you something?"

"Sure."

"Wasn't it nighttime before?"

Curiously, he takes a gander at your surroundings, and sure enough, the sun is high in the sky. That means the basketball game ended and everyone left the stadium, passed by two unconscious students on the sidewalk, and did nothing. The school will definitely be hearing about this.

"It was also October," he comments.

It feels rather warm for it being this far into Autumn. Not to mention the trees are beautifully green and flowering everywhere you look. It's not just a warm day in October. It's a different season. A hot season.

He decides to shake it off and stand up, brushing off his clothes and ruffling his hair.

You stand as well, a little unsteady on your feet.

"You're not too dizzy to walk?"

"I think I'm good. Are you okay?"

"Just a headache."

Something is definitely odd, but you can't quite put your finger on it. It's almost like you're not seeing things quiet right, like your peripheral vision has been tampered with. When you're focused on Jisung, everything else fades into the background until he makes a point to look away again.

You chalk it up to your head still spinning, but you can't ignore the oddity of the environment right now. It appears to be Earth but something is…different. You can't seem to get out of tunnel vision mode.

"Where are all the students?" You ask.

"In class?"

"The whole campus?"

The campus is completely abandoned save for the two of you and the occasional squirrel in a tree.

Jisung just shrugs. He gave his best guess and doesn't have another one. From the expression on his face, he's sensing something isn't right either.

You take a single step and immediately your knees buckle beneath you, a light gasp alerting Jisung to your fall.

His reaction is in slow-mo, arms scooping around your waist, supporting your sudden collapse into his embrace. Your hands land on his shoulders, your chest on his chest.

The rest of the world blurs into a mesh of nothingness while you slowly gaze up at him, eyes sparkling abnormally bright and lips shimmering temptingly. Your eyelids flutter at him, silently speaking to him in soothing tones. His attention drops to your lips, filled with an overwhelming urge to kiss you stupid.

Is that...background music?

Just as the moment arrives, it disappears. You push your self off his chest and stand up on your own again.

"Sorry," you quickly apologize, "I don't know what that was. I just, umm, my legs gave out. Guess I'm dizzier than I thought." You shyly tuck your hair behind your ear and then look at your hand as if it betrayed you.

"It's okay," Jisung assures you, stuffing his hands into his pockets as soon as he gets the chance. "You didn't, like, happen to see anything...sparkly just now?"

"See what?"

"Nevermind!"

Even if you did see something, what reason does Jisung have to believe you would admit you also experienced whatever fanfic shit that just was.

Wait. Oh hell no. It can't be.

"When you accidentally walked out in front of that car – and I pulled you out of the way like a superhero – you were reading fanfiction, weren't you?"

You roll your eyes. "Are you seriously going to tease me right after a near death experience? That's low, man."

"No, no, that's not what I meant," he says. "You're gonna think I'm insane, but…doesn't something feel off to you?"

Clearly, you're not about to admit it, but you've definitely felt the off-putting aura surrounding you since you woke up. Your expression shifts to realization mixed with horror, wide eyes and a dropped jaw.

"What is it?" Jisung urges.

Without a second thought, you drop on all fours and frantically begin searching all over the ground, the side of the curb, the grass on the edge of the trees.

"What's wrong?"

"My phone! Help me find it!"

Without arguing, Jisung kneels to the ground and starts searching as well.

Thankfully, you find the device a moment later. The screen is cracked but otherwise it's not broken. It turns on just fine and unlocks to reveal the screen you were reading right before Jisung pulled you out of the way of that car.

"I knew it," Jisung clicks his tongue, "you were reading fanfiction and not paying attention. You could have gotten seriously hurt if I hadn't been there, you know."

"Jisung…" you slowly turn the screen so he can see it clearly.

"What, I don't get–" he freezes, absolutely horrified. "Is it…how is it…doing that?"

"I don't know," you reply, releasing a shaky breath as you watch your words appear in quotations on the screen. "Is it commenting on us?"

You wave your arm in random directions as if that's the best way to test whether or not I actually know what you're doing right now. You look stupid by the way. You should probably stop.

"Oh fuck, no way," Jisung refuses with a shake of his head, watching each letter appear on the screen in perfect time as it leaves his lips. "Whatever sick trick this is, I'm not a part of it. Make it stop right now!"

"I'm not doing it!" You insist, unaware that you are in a way, because these are your words being typed right now.

"No, I'm not! Whoever is doing that, we're not in your story so cut it out!"

Oh, but this isn't my story anymore. It's yours.

"What?"

"I don't know who the fuck you think you are, but you better leave us alone right now!" Jisung yells at the sky.

But here's the thing, I started this fanfic with the intention of two lovers having a happily ever after, but my pairing isn't working out very well. So, I had to improvise.

Welcome to the fic, you two! Let's write some fanfiction, shall we? There's a special pair of idiots who need some help to fall in love.

"I don't understand…" you reply, slightly shaking where you stand.

Jisung notices, but he's too nervous to reach out and take your hand. He doesn't want to admit it, but he's still hurt from your rejection because he genuinely likes you but sucks at showing his feelings ever since his mom walked out on him.

"Hey, isn't that kind of personal? How do you even know that?”

Because I wrote your character into existence. And now, I need your help.

"For what?"

To get this fanfic back on track. There are two characters I've written on this campus who are meant to end up together, but they're not exactly cooperating with me. I need you to find them and get them together to make the happy ending.

"Why can you just write them together?"

That's the thing, I lost control of the story. Whatever I end up writing always backfires. Call it writer's block or poor motivation or just a lack of writing ability, but either way, I need some assistance to get this story back on track.

If you two will agree to help me, I won't control your actions or dialogue, I promise. You can do and say whatever you want and all I'll do is record what happens. Help me write this story from the inside, and I'll let you go afterwards.

"And if we refuse?" Jisung crosses his arms, watching me type his actions out with a disdainful frown on his face.

Then you'll never escape an unfinished wip.

“That’s bullshit," Jisung doesn't believe me. He thinks he's calling my bluff but inside he's secretly nervous I'm telling the truth.

"Am not!"

Am too.

"Am not! You're lying!”

Would you like to test that theory?

"Whatever," he grumbles.

We don't get along apparently, which makes me sad.

But while Jisung and I have our little squabble, you've been carefully considering my offer, haven't you?

"Fine."

"What!?" Jisung is shell-shocked. "You're agreeing?"

"If we do this, we get to go home. Whatever author this is clearly does not intend to let us go unless we agree to help."

You're right, I don't.

Jisung pinches the bridge of his nose. He knows he has no choice but to agree.

"Yeah, yeah, okay enough with the commentary," he sighs. "I'll do it."

And from that moment on, the world became a little brighter, more in focus, and Jisung felt his point of view slowly returning to his mind.

"Thanks."

The internal control to move and breathe and speak becomes apparent in your bones as well, filling your lungs, and sparking the tip of your tongue. You look at Jisung with a worried but brave expression.

"Where should we even start?"

In a flash, you and Jisung are suddenly standing in the school's cafeteria. In front of you is a two person table but only one girl sitting alone with her textbook. She's brighter than the rest of the student body and wearing different clothes, which separates her as a main character.

The main female lead.

"Guess that answers that question."

The rest is up to you. Please, make sure the story has a happy ending. I'm counting on you guys.

::

"You go talk to her."

"No way, you go talk to her."

"Give me one good reason why I should be the one to talk to her?"

"Uh, because you're a girl," Jisung points out the obvious, gesturing to your curvaceous figure. "She's the female lead."

"You're way better at making friends than I am," you argue.

"Says who?"

"Your friends.”

“What about your friends?”

“They’re all extroverts. They adopted me. I did nothing.”

Even just looking at her sitting alone intimidates you. Not that you're always introverted, of course, around your family and in familiar environments you're perfectly fine. But you've never been confident in taking the initiative when it comes to meeting new people. (Neither is Jisung, but he can suck it up this one time).

“Okay, but this is a fanfic. I don't know how things work in this world. Besides, you're one of her own kind."

You hit his shoulder, but his tease did lighten the mood, so he calls it a success. The first time you've smiled since waking up with him on the sidewalk.

"Come on, you're great at bumping into people," you jest, making reference to your interaction at the basketball game with a sly grin.

"Ha ha, very funny."

"Just figure out where we are in the story. Once we know that, we can figure out what's next," you inform, turning him to face the female lead’s direction.

Jisung eyes her from across the cafeteria, nervously biting his lip. Yeah, he's extroverted sometimes, but he's not the best at talking to girls. You of all people should know that; he spent months teasing you because he didn't know how to approach you like a normal human. When he first saw you, he thought you were just…too pretty for a casual introduction.

Granted, this fanfic chick is significantly less attractive than you are. But that doesn't mean she's not a girl.

"Oh, she's coming this way, quick!” You push on his shoulder blades as he leans back, digging his heels into the ground. "Don't lose this chance, Jisung! Don't you wanna get out of here?"

"Don't rush me!"

With a final shove, Jisung trips forwards, nearly crashing into the girl as she walks by. He manages to catch himself but not before his stumbling lands him right in the pathway of…

"Oh!" She exclaims, jumping at the surprise of an odd boy suddenly appearing in front of her.

Jisung freezes, eyes wide and staring directly into hers. He softly chuckles and straightens out his jacket.

"Sorry. I tripped."

"That's okay," she smiles innocently. "I trip all the time."

He scratches the back of his head. "You ever fall when you trip?"

"Huh?" She tilts her head, eyebrows lifted in confusion.

"Nevermind. Umm, I'm Jisung by the way," he introduces himself with a handshake, hoping the conversation can start flowing naturally now that the expected awkwardness has hopefully passed.

The girl accepts his hand, the other tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "It's nice to meet you, Jisung. Do you ever fall when you trip?"

He blinks. "What?"

"Nevermind. Umm, I'm Your Name by the way." The girl offers a handshake…again.

He accepts it (again) with an unsure look, carefully noting how she just repeated him, word for word. As if she couldn't come up with her own contributions to the conversation.

"I'm sorry, your name is…?"

"Me," she smiles innocently, one of the few actions Jisung realizes that she knows how to do.

"You're…"

"Your Name."

"Right, what is it?"

"My name is Your Name."

"Your name is Jisung?"

"No, it's Your Name."

"I don't get it."

"You're so funny!” She giggles with a soft hand to her lips.

He huffs, "No, I'm Jisung. Who the fuck are you?"

A harsh slap strikes across his back, echoing across the cafeteria but none of the surrounding students pay it any mind.

"Ow!" Jisung yelps, retreating from your hand. "What gives?"

"It's nice to meet you, Your Name. I'm ___,” you say sweetly as if you didn't just leave a nasty red handprint on his back. "I love your top."

"Oh, thanks! I love your top too! Hey, ___, do you ever fall when you trip?”

"Yep." With a sigh and a nod, you face Jisung and speak directly to him, disregarding the girl swaying cutely in her white skirt and tennies. "The author led us to the right girl. She's the reader insert, alright."

Your Name occupies herself, amazed by her own hands and interlocking her fingers with a wishful sigh. She's been written to fall in love with the man of her dreams, to discover angst, heartbreak and become the apple of her lover's eye. When she's not doing anything directly related to that purpose, she's just an empty shell of a character, a copycat filling space and time until her next scene.

"She's dumb as a sack of rocks."

"No one is reading the story right now, remember? The author is still writing it. Your Name is an empty character," you explain, scanning her perfect figure up and down with a jealous click of your tongue.

"So, if someone reads the story…"

"Then part of that reader's character is reflected in Your Name. It's what makes fanfiction fun to read. You get to put yourself in the story."

Okay, maybe Jisung sees the attractiveness in that. It's an escape just like video games, except more lame and desperate.

Your Name has yet to do or say anything else. She just sways with her hands folded against her chest, mind empty, no thoughts, unable to leave or initiate anything without the author's guidance or some other trigger.

"Why would anyone want to be her?"

The doors to the cafeteria burst open, immediately stealing everyone's attention. The whole building pauses in place, heads turning in slow-mo to see what the big commotion is about, choirs of gasps and the sound of panties dropping to the ground left and right.

In walks sex on legs, dark hair fluffy with a gloved hand brushing through thick bangs, skin tight jeans and a leather brace around his wrist. He pretends to pull an arrow from the empty quiver on his hip, shooting a charming wink in the direction of a cafeteria worker, chuckling when they faint against the wall with a hand over their heart.

There's only one person who could have that kind of effect simply by walking into the room.

"That's why," you reply, hypnotized eyes following his every move through the line to get lunch. "The main male lead."

"So, it's all about the guy, huh?"

"Obviously. It is a Minho fanfic, so yeah."

Jisung gawks. "Wait, that's supposed to be the Lee Minho? The famous singer slash actor in real life?"

"Yep," you sigh in content. Even if this is a fanfic, you're in the same room as Minho and you'll never forget this day.

"That dude doesn't know archery," Jisung pouts.

"Yes, he does. Didn't you see him at the Archy Games? He placed out of, like, a lot of people. He got such a perfect bullseye, he hit the camera in the middle of the target!”

Jisung just rolls his eyes, too proud to admit the way you're staring at that fanfic character makes his blood boil something awful. But you're not the only one entranced.

Your Name hasn't been able to blink since Minho walked in, hands folded shyly at her chest and lips slightly parted. She holds her breath as he struts in her direction, whipping his hair out of his eyes only for it to gracefully fall over his forehead again.

Minho passes by with his lunch, but he doesn't even give Your Name a glance, not even the barest of recognitions. She opens her mouth as if she wants to say something, but no sound comes out. Just a defeated sigh when Minho sits down at a table with a bunch of other students and not her.

She pulls her bag further up her shoulder, putting her head down and walking out of the cafeteria as unnoticeably as possible. Jisung watches her, a surprising sense of sympathy for her despite reminding himself she's a fictional character.

You lift a finger to your temple, leaning into Jisung's side as you both watch the scene play out. "I understand."

"What? What just happened?"

"We have to get Minho together with Your Name. She's the shy, unnoticed freshman and he's the popular, sporty hunk with a heart of gold."

"Oh come on, that's the worst trope ever." He rolls his eyes in Minho's direction. "Heart of gold, my ass. He walked right past Your Name and didn't even flinch."

"Like you would know anything about fanfic tropes."

"Video games have tropes too.”

You roll your lips tight when he sticks his tongue out at you, trying not to smile at how cute he was just now.

"Oh yeah? Like what?"

"I could name five off the top of my head."

"Are any of them the shy school girl and popular sports star?"

His expression drops. "No."

"Then you can reference video games again when they can actually help us. For now, we need to figure out a way to get those two together so we can end the fic and get the fuck out of here. Any ideas?"

Jisung shrugs. "I don't know. I'm hungry."

You're deep in thought, unconcerned with Jisung's empty stomach. He starts rubbing it over his shirt, whining your name and poking your arm over and over.

"Let's eat something, pleeease?”

"We don't have meal swipes for this place," you reply shortly, shooing his hand away without ever once losing focus on Minho.

Do fanfic characters usually use meal swipes? The author probably had way better things to write about than whether or not the characters used their meal swipes or paid cash for their lunch.

Besides, this is the spitting image of your real life cafeteria back on campus. If this school is based on that school, then maybe his meal swipes can work. (Does that mean the author goes to your and Jisung's university? Whoa.)

You're not going anywhere. Jisung might as well try.

Wouldn't you know it, Jisung uses a meal swipe to get a tray and two plates for a much needed meal break. So, he makes his way around the different stations of the cafeteria and collects a little bit of everything onto a tray, stacking piles of dino nuggets and mac 'n cheese especially tall.

After tucking two canned sodas under his arm, Jisung finds you right where he left you. Standing in the middle of the floor, eyes glued to the archery star, and biting your nail into a numb.

"Hey, you should eat something."

"You're probably right," you finally admit when your stomach starts gurgling. "Food is important."

"Come on, we can think of a plan while we eat."

The two of you make your way to a free table within eye shot of Minho and slip into opposite booths. Jisung pops open your soda for you, a small smirk on his lips when you gasp at the meal in front of you.

"Dino nuggets and mac 'n cheese? Oh fuck yes, this is my favorite nostalgic meal ever! How did you know?”

Jisung smiles, watching you dig in with a huge first bite. "It's mine too."

::

You and Jisung decide to map out what you already know and what you need to know on the way to an upcoming archery tournament.

Minho didn't pay Your Name any mind in the cafeteria, but he also didn't display any tension to suggest a break up or fight. It's safe to assume they haven't met yet. Which means you're at the very beginning of the fic. Depending on the author, this could be a 5K walk or a 25K marathon.

(I'll give you a hint: it's longer than 5K).

You stuff your phone back into your jean pocket, already tired just thinking about the work ahead of you.

"Author said it's a lengthy fic. Which means we've got multiple scenes to get through. We could be here for a while."

Jisung swings his arms as he walks beside you, keeping to the outside of the sidewalk so he's closer to the road.

"Shit."

"Yeah," you sigh, fanning yourself.

"Are you warm?"

"Are you not?" You ask in shock, upgrading to two-handed fanning. "It's a million degrees out here. How are you still wearing that jacket?"

Jisung shrugs. "I'm fine."

The sun beats down on your sweater, harshly punishing you for still having it on. Soon enough, you can't bear it anymore. Your arms cross in front of you, fingers pinching the hem of your top and pulling it over your head to reveal a white tank underneath. Instant relief hits your skin.

You tie the sleeves of your sweater around your waist and tie up your hair so it's off your neck.

"Much better," you sigh to yourself. Now maybe you can actually think without getting heat stroke.

"So–" Jisung clears his throat, eyes forward and nowhere else. "So you've read this story before, right?"

"I've read stories similar. The trope is cliche enough. The archery tournament should be a good place to start. Sport events are usually where major plot development happens."

"I sure hope you're right."

Of course, you're right. Minho is the archery champion, so Your Name is bound to be around here somewhere. After all, who would give up the chance to watch their crush excel at what they do best?

No doubt, this scene will be an important milestone in their relationship. You just have to remember your role as wing woman and make sure Minho notices Your Name this time around.

The field is decorated with targets and large, fake deer in the distance. All the archers are dressed in their gear, looking fine as hell. Never thought archery would do it for you, but the strap across the chest and holster around the waist accentuates more curves than you were ready for. Damn.

"There." You direct Jisung's attention toward the provided refreshments. "Your Name is by the water dispenser."

You call out to her as you approach, ducking to avoid the many eyes of the bleachers because good god there's a lot of students here. The crowd makes you feel rather uneasy, but you push your introverted wishes to the side and focus on the task at hand.

"Oh, hi!” She greets you happily before averting her gaze to the man on your left. “Hi, Jisung. How are you?”

“Hi.” Jisung nods at her, but his focus is on getting a cup of water.

"Are you excited for the archers? Who do you think is gonna win?" You ask with a friendly touch to her arm, trying to be social.

"Of course! Minho will win for sure."

"Have you cheered him on yet?" Jisung asks while handing you the cup of water. You gratefully down it in one gulp. So, he gets you another one.

"Everyone is cheering for Minho."

"But did you tell him personally that you're cheering for him?"

Your Name's smile fades a little, morphing into a shy expression as she tucks her hair behind her ear.

"No. I didn't know I should.”

"You totally should," Jisung says while you gulp down the second cup of water. "He'd appreciate the support."

"You think?"

"Trust me, I'm a guy. If a cute girl like you wished me good luck in my tournament, hell I'd wanna win just for you."

Her cheeks instantly flush, eyelids fluttering like butterflies, a dim light starting to glow around her.

"Really?"

"Yeah, sure."

Your Name rolls her lips, running fingers through the tips of her hair. "Do you have a tournament coming up? I'd love to cheer for you, Jisung."

"Me? Uhh, no. I'm not really into sports."

"What are you into?"

"Gaming," he says slowly.

"That's so cool!"

"Yeah, I guess…”

Jisung shares a look with you, unsure how the focus shifted to his interests. You interrupt with a hand on her shoulder, low-key turning her to face Minho's direction again.

"Minho is into archery. Isn't that cool?"

Your Name's neck stays turned toward Jisung until you place two palms on her cheeks and make her look in the direction of the archery team.

She scans Minho head to toe. The archer tightens his quiver, adjusting it on his hip before bending over to tie his shoe. Never thought you'd be jealous of a man's ass but goddamn, the author blessed him with zero regard for their weak audience.

"Wish him good luck like this, watch me–" you hold up two fists and smile as big as you possibly can, making your voice higher pitched and turning your knees in for a cuter effect. "You can do it, Oppa! Fighting!"

Jisung nearly does a spit take. You're fucking adorable.

Your Name seems unsure. "Do you really think he'll notice me if I do that?"

"I'm sure he will. Now go get 'em!" You give her a little booty pat to send her on her way.

She timidly makes her way over to Minho while you and Jisung observe. Minho doesn't have to fall in love with her right now, you remind yourself. All this has to do is get him to notice her, put her in his radar. This is the meet cute, the part where he realizes she's on his side. He finds a companion in someone he never expected, a shy bookworm he's never noticed who is his biggest fan.

Jisung leans in close to your ear. "Call me Oppa. Just once."

"Not even in your dreams."

"Damn it. Worth a try."

While Your Name doesn't knock his socks off, at least Minho recognized her efforts and thanked her for the cheer. They don't immediately hit it off and he doesn't look for her in the crowd during the tournament, but that's okay. He knows she exists now, so something new will happen any minute.

It's almost halfway through the tournament. Your Name has sat down in the bleachers looking somewhat lost since you claimed her spot by the water dispenser.

“Nothing's happening…” you mutter nervously.

"Don't worry," Jisung says, watching Minho shoot his third bullseye in a row, "it's not a 5K fic, remember? Something new will happen any second. The plot has to progress somehow."

Wouldn't you know it, Jisung is right.

From seemingly nowhere, an arrow comes shooting right at you. Instinctively, you squat to the ground at the sound of the arrow whistling past you, piercing and shattering the water dispenser. In slow-mo, of course.

A small wave of water spills out, soaking through your tank and all down your back.

All you can do is squat there for a moment, taking in what the actual hell just happened. The slow-mo effect dissipates but the entire field has gone quiet, including the idiot who just shot that arrow.

Jisung kneels in front of you. "Oh my god, ___! Are you okay? That arrow didn't hit you, did it?"

You shake your head, staring at the ground in silent shock, panic rising in your chest.

"That was way too close.”

You agree, trying to catch your breath when he offers a hand to help you stand.

The moment you're back on your feet, your whole fanfic world freezes. Even Jisung's eyes have gone wide and his tongue gets tied.

Immediately, you cross your arms over your chest, curling in on yourself and trying to cover your soaked through white tank top that's sticking to you like a wetsuit, totally and completely see through. Your brightly colored bra does little to help the situation.

Jisung doesn't hesitate for a single second. He strips his jacket and wraps it around your shoulders, zipping it to your chin. When you don't move, he pulls you into his chest for some extra coverage and comfort.

You're not sure what to do, so your face ends up hiding in his chest, eyes squeezed shut, wishing you could disappear in his arms.

"Come on," he whispers, ushering you off the field, one of his arms wrapped around you protectively while the other hovers over your face so you don't see the eyes of the crowd watching.

Consequently, you don't see Minho's curious eyes following you either.

::

Jisung sits you down on a bench a little ways around the corner where there are no spectators.

"Are you okay?" He asks, kneeling in front of you, hand resting on the bench beside your thigh. “___?”

Your stale expression doesn't shift but your eyes start to fill with tears, the white of your pupils turning pink and your eyelids fluttering at the sting.

Jisung feels his heart drop at the same time your first tear does. The first time he's ever seen you cry.

"Everyone was staring at me. They wouldn't stop staring…"

For the first time, Jisung is witnessing how much your introverted personality affects you. Being embarrassed is a common human experience, but it's so much worse for you. Those kinds of things are only magnified due to your already anxious state in large crowds.

Your body closes up, limbs curling in on themselves even further inside Jisung's jacket.

"They all saw, didn't they?"

"No," he assures you, causing your eyes to lift hopefully. "I was quick with the jacket, so I don't think anyone saw much of anything."

"You're sure?"

"Absolutely."

You know he's just being kind. Usually when people say things for the sole purpose of making you feel better, it doesn't help much. But even though you know Jisung is lying, his little smile and confident nose scrunch are cute enough to make you relax somewhat.

"Thanks," you shrug as a gesture to his jacket around your shoulders.

He smiles, and it makes things a little better somehow. The background blurs, allowing you to focus only on him, putting the rest of the situation into perspective and making things feel all a little less daunting. Life doesn't feel as serious when Jisung smiles, and that's a rare experience for you. Out here, away from all the people, you can regather yourself and process things clearly.

You wanna touch him, just to be in physical contact again – being so close to his chest, hidden and warm…it felt good.

But he stands up first, making your jerk your hand away from where it was reaching out inconspicuously.

"I'll go get a towel and see if I can steal a dry shirt from someone."

"You're leaving?" The question popped out before you could stop it.

He holds back a teasing smile. "Should I stay here?"

"No, it's fine," you say quickly, turning your knees in. "Go get me a shirt. Hurry up."

He just snickers, whispering "cute" under his breath before sticking his hands in his jean pockets and casually making his way back toward the archery field. If anything, Your Name will probably have an extra top you can borrow. It'll be small but it'll probably work in a pinch.

Now that you think about it, you could be in this fic for several days. What about clothes, sleep and hygiene? Do you have a room in the dorms or will you and Jisung have to scrap on the side of the street for basic necessities? The author wouldn't leave you in that horrible situation, would they?

"Hey, you."

That's not Jisung's voice.

You lift your head to see none other than the main male lead confidently strutting over to your bench.

"Just wanted to check on you and make sure you're okay. That was quite the splash.”

Just try not to be stunned speechless that your in-real-life celebrity crush is speaking to you as a fanfic character in an alternative universe. Holy shit.

“I'm okay I think.”

"Thank goodness. I saw that arrow heading towards you, and my heart stopped for a solid minute. You've got quick reflexes though.”

"Thankfully," you exhale, “my life definitely flashed before my eyes though."

"What did you see?" He casually asks, taking a seat beside you.

You're suddenly very aware of how close he is, shoulder to shoulder, leg to leg. When he turns his head toward you, the little sparkles in his eyes become noticeable, and you can make out his individual eyelashes.

"School. Family. Friends."

"A boyfriend?"

"No."

"You're single?"

"Yes."

Minho seems pleased to hear this. He adjusts in his seat, a confident smug on his lips and an indifferent shrug on his shoulders.

"We should maybe go out sometime, if you're interested. You know, we could be…friends?" He holds out his hand. “Minho. But you probably knew that.”

If you were feeling more confident or outgoing at this moment, you might call him out on the fact that he just confirmed you were single and then asked you out as a friend when you guys don't even know each other. He definitely thought he was smoother than he actually was just now.

"___," you reply, rather small and quiet, holding out your hand as well.

But instead of shaking it, Minho instead puts his cellphone in your palm.

"Put in your number.”

With no reason not to, you do as he requests, adding a signature koala emoji at the end of your name.

"Why a koala?" He asks amused.

"They're cute."

"You're cuter."

Damn, that response was fast. As if he had it right on the tip of his tongue, ready to go for anyone.

Surprisingly, it doesn't make you nearly as fluttery as expected. It was a good line, but the cocky bite of his lip and the narrow eyes just aren't doing it for you right now.

It doesn't exactly feel very….Minho.

He tucks a strand of hair behind your ear but it's not flattering and it doesn't make your heart flutter. There's no slow-mo, the world around you doesn't blur into the background. Actually, it feels kind of awkward, and he doesn't put your hair in the right place so it just falls again.

Minho stands, slipping his phone into his pocket now that he's got your info.

"I'll text you," he promises before waving goodbye, his other hand scratching the back of his head bashfully as if he's not used to getting girl's numbers. He totally is though.

Okay. Okay. Don't freak out. This is a good thing. Now you've got a connection with both Your Name and Minho. This way will be easier to manipulate their relationship and eventually write a happy ending. That's the goal. In order to get out of here, you need a happy ending. That's what the author asked for.

Jisung returns a few moments later with a dry shirt and a towel. You tell him what happened, and he doesn't seem very pleased that Minho has your phone number. But what's done is done.

Now it's time for the next chapter.

::

"Actually, I think we should chill for now."

Jisung can't be serious…is he serious?

"I mean, why not? It's almost night anyway. Look, the sun is setting and we haven't even had dinner yet."

"Okay, so we go back to the cafeteria, get some dino nuggies, and then keep working," you reply.

"Let's go out instead. I don't want dino nuggies."

You gasp, hand over your heart. "Don't want dino nuggies? When does anyone not want dino nuggies? They are the only matter in existence not capable of disappointment."

Jisung laughs with you, covering his mouth with the back of his hand. You wish he wouldn't cover up his smile like that.

"Yeah, okay. I still would rather go get pizza or something," he comments.

"With pineapple?"

"Ew, no I'm not a psychopath."

"Well, I just figured since you don't want dino nuggies, there must be something wrong with you."

Jisung rolls his eyes, genuinely enjoying whatever banter has come out of this situation. He's actually kinda fun to talk to. He's sweeter than you originally thought when all you knew about him was that he liked to tease you. There's something captivating about the shape of his mouth when he talks, the movement of his neck, the shifting of his eyes from you to the sunset.

He leans back on his hands and looks out at the campus. The best place to get a bird's eye view is up here at the monogram. You can see the whole campus from this hill. Just as you expected, it's an exact replica of your campus back in real life.

For some reason, you find yourself watching his profile instead, the lines of his jaw and the curve of his nose. He's got soft features and they match his personality really well, you think. He's handsome. More importantly, he's not going to abandon you here. He proved that today.

"Hey, Jisung?”

“Hm?”

"I'm really glad we're here together." Your heart rate spikes immediately, the realization that you just said that out loud hits you like a ton of bricks. "I mean, I'm not glad we're stuck in a fanfic, that sucks. But if I'm gonna be stuck in here, I'm glad it's with you–”

“With me?”

“Well – I just mean, it would suck more to be alone – not without you specifically, but just alone in general, ummm….I guess, yeah. I'm just trying to say thank you.”

He just waits patiently until you're done stuttering like an idiot, his smile slowly growing with each embarrassed syllable. His eyes fill with fondness, but you don't notice them while you're too busy trying to calm the palpitations in your chest by picking at blades of grass. What's this nervous energy all of a sudden?

"We can have pineapple on the pizza if you want," he says casually.

"I don't like pineapple." You steal a glance at him only to do a double take at his idiotic grin. "What's that face for?"

"Because I didn't know that about you. And now I do."

You're not sure how to respond, so you just scoff under your breath, muttering to yourself and pulling your knees to your chest, suppressing the desire to ask him about his favorite dino nuggie shape.

"Wanna bring the pizza back up here and eat?"

"Yeah, that sounds nice."

::

How you fell asleep outside, you'll never know. How you ended up cuddling with Jisung is even more of a mystery.

Your whole body is pressed into his chest, one leg slipped between his legs, and your arms tucked under your chin. He's lazily wrapped around you, arm laid across your side and nose almost touching yours.

When the chill of midnight wakes you up, you're sure it's a dream. His eyes happen to open at the same moment, a deep inhale through his nose as his world comes into view…as you come into view.

"Hi," he grumbles, voice scratchy and low.

"Am I dreaming about you now?"

"You probably got cold."

You look down, trying to move your leg but it doesn't want to pull away from the comfy spot it's found between his legs. When you look back up, he's watching you softly, half lidded eyes swollen from a rough few hours and the greasy pizza.

"So, this is a dream."

"Depends," his lips move through the dark, the feeling of his knuckle softly rubbing your cheek down to your chin and finally across your bottom lip, "if it is, are you gonna move?"

"No."

"Then this is a dream."

"Good."

::

"What if you pretend to be in love with Your Name?"

Jisung doesn't seem too excited about that suggestion. He lifts one brow and sticks his hands in his pockets, glancing over his shoulder at where the female lead sits at the opposite side of the cafeteria.

"But I don't like her," he says flatly, "plus she's a fanfic character. It doesn't make sense to ask her out."

"It doesn't have to make sense. It's a fanfic," you argue, leaning your back against the wall. "Plus, she's cute, come on. We need her to trust us."

Not as cute as you. And she's dumb. Jisung doesn't know if he could last a whole evening as her date let alone pretend to be attracted to her. She's not his type anyway.

"Statistically, dating someone based on physical attraction alone only works two percent of the time," he assures you, sticking out his tongue at the sour taste of just the idea.

"Well, just pretend this is one of the times when it does."

"Sorry, I don't have enough experience points for that."

You roll your eyes. "Ha ha, very funny. Just go ask her out. We don't have any other ideas than to make Minho jealous somehow, and me dating Minho won't work because Your Name is too timid to act on jealousy."

Well, that does it. Now Jisung is determined to find a better solution. There's got to be a way to get those crazy kids together that doesn't involve you getting with Minho or Jisung acting like he can last longer than ten minutes with Your Name before wanting to suck his brain out through his ears.

"Look, every story has an algorithm, right? We just have to find this storyline's algorithm and use it to make the ending get here faster so we can get the fuck out of here."

"What do you mean?" You ask, not following along at all. But you're interested in where Jisung is going with this exactly.

He glances across the room at Your Name, eyes bouncing between her seat and Minho's table surrounded by fellow archers who think they're cool because they can shoot a tree from thirty yards.

"Okay, hear me out," Jisung starts talking with his hands, which means he wants you to really listen, "You know how in video games–"

"No."

He rolls his eyes but there's no mistaking that tiny smile hidden in the corner of his lips. "In video games there's something called an algorithm."

"This is fanfiction, Jisung, algorithms are a math thing."

"They're also a story thing. The algorithm is the step by step process of what eventually gets you to the ending. It's what draws you in, makes it attractive. Sorta like the formula to the story. Predictability."

"Okay," you reply slowly. "I think I understand."

"So, what's the algorithm of this fanfic? What's the thing that makes the story move forward?"

You have to think for a moment, consider the characters and setting. What's the main premise that's going to eventually trigger the progression of the storyline? The glue between the romantic interests?

"Opposites attract?"

"Getting warmer." He taps his chin. "But not quite. Anything else it could be?"

"Sexual tension?"

"That's it, you're a genius!" Jisung lights up.

A sense of warmth fills your cheeks knowing you answered correctly. You should really stop yourself from smiling like a middle schooler whenever he praises you.

"A build-up of sexual tension between two unlikely characters.” Jisung keeps running with the idea, growing in excitement. “When he sees her, he can't help himself. She drives him crazy without even trying!”

“That's perfect!” Your eyes sparkle as the idea becomes solidified in your mind. “And when she sees him, she wonders if she misjudged him at first glance. Oh! And why she feels so shy when he gets closer.”

“He does stupid things to get her attention.”

“She plays hard to get but secretly wants him.”

“He’s dying to touch her.”

“She has butterflies just thinking about it.”

“And then suddenly–” his arms land on either side of you on the wall, encasing your smaller frame in his presence, “--they can't hold back anymore.”

You exhale, unaware you were even holding your breath, chest sinking and then filling up again with much needed oxygen.

Jisung catches his breath too, the once fanfic-esq excitement in his bones softens as a flash of realization paints his pupils. His eyes trace the lines of your nose to your lips. He should look away. But he doesn't. He can't.

There's that infamous slow-mo, the one that keeps happening during the most inconvenient moments. You're still not sure if Jisung also experiences it, but it's doing things to you.

His features become softer and rounder, the illusion of a blurry background causes your attention to be enraptured that much easier. His eyes gently blink and when they open, they've moved upward, now looking directly into yours, gently asking.

You want to say yes. But the moment is all too fleeting when his expression shifts into something embarrassed, and he suddenly clears his throat and stands up straight again.

You brush off your clothes, trying to act as inconspicuous as possible because whatever the hell that was has no impact on the goal at hand. No matter how unusually pretty his eyes are. Damn.

"So," you pull your hair over your shoulder and then toss it back again, "we need to build sexual tension between Minho and Your Name."

"Luckily, Your Name already thinks Minho is sexy. But how to make Minho notice her…" Jisung comments, a hand on his hip and the other scratching his head.

And then an idea clicks in your mind. "A costume change."

"Be serious."

"I am serious. In fanfiction, when a character changes their outfit to something sexy or different from their usual vibe, it makes the other characters notice them. OC's do it all the time."

Jisung guesses that could work. He tries to put it into perspective by imagining you wearing something you normally wouldn't. His gaming sweatshirt would be much too big for you considering it's big on him. The zipper is broken so it would probably fall off your one shoulder. His cat ear headset certainly would be a costume change, not to mention the sight of your beautiful legs in leggings, or even better, oversized pajama shorts and fluffy socks. He imagines how cute you'd be sitting in his lap and letting him teach you how to use the controller, whining when your character dies for the tenth time, but then getting so happy when you win.

Maybe you even twist around and hug his neck, maybe you're so happy you give him a kiss. Maybe the two of you get so caught up in the kiss that you forget the game and end up straddling his lap in his gamer chair. Maybe things get a little heated and he takes off your sweatshirt. You're nervous but he makes sure you're comfortable first and foremost because he just wants you to feel safe and loved. Because you deserve to be taken care of and kissed like that. You deserve so much.

Yeah, a costume change could work.

Jisung responds before his imagination can go further, "Okay, so how do we do that?"

At that moment, your phone vibrates with a text from an unknown number.

[unknown] hey there cutie ;) it's Minho ;) my team is throwing a party tonight to celebrate our win at the tournament ;) wanna swing by? ;)

Putting aside the major turn off that Minho just asked you to a party without indicating that he will be taking any kind of responsibility for the fact that he invited you to a party, this is just what the doctor ordered.

You show Jisung the screen. "Boom."

"Why four winky faces? Wait a damn minute, is he asking you out on a date right now?"

"Yep."

"Didn't even offer to pick you up," he grumbles, "what a loser."

"It's still a party."

"I guess."

"A sexy party," you clarify, "probably with alcohol. There'll be a bunch of drab-dressed NPC's, and I'll make sure Your Name wears something that'll catch Minho's attention."

As much as Jisung is dreading going to a major social event that's not a gaming tournament, he can't deny that this is probably going to be your greatest chance at making some progress in the story.

He gives a little side eye, a smile in the corner of his lips as the two of you head to get food. "I didn't think you knew any video game lingo."

"I know a little. I live in the 21st century after all."

Jisung commits your giggle to his memory because, fuck, it wasn't slow-mo but he felt his world light up because of it.

You get two trays and casually make your way over to where Your Name is finishing up her lunch.

"Hey, mind if we join you?"

"Sure," she smiles innocently - is it just you or is it annoying how symmetrical and sweet her smile is?

Jisung takes the seat between you both, instantly regretting the decision when Your Name scoots a little closer so their shoulders touch. He looks at you as if you're going to fix it, but you brush it off, starting to eat while moving the conversation along.

"So, Your Name, did you get the invite to Minho's party?"

"I heard about it–" wow news travels fast in fanfics, "--but I haven't gotten an invitation. I don't think Minho wants me there.”

"You're in luck! Jisung needs a plus one."

"I do?" The unsuspecting victim asks in terror.

“Yes, you do,” you repeat firmly. “Why wouldn't Minho want you there? You're his cheerleader!”

Your Name instantly starts acting shy, leaning even closer to Jisung but turning her face away and only glancing to feign vulnerability or whatever other reason girls do that shit.

"You're going to the party, Jisung?"

"Apparently." He glares at you.

"I'd love to be your plus one. I don't typically go to parties, but it might be fun to go together." She bites her lip, catching Jisung's easily distracted attention.

Wait a second, is he actually staring at her?

"Really? You want to go with me?"

"Yeah, I really do!"

His expression softens. "No girl has ever wanted to go to a party with me. I'm kind of a geek."

Your Name shakes her head with a gasp, placing a hand on his bicep with a subtle squeeze. "Oh no! You're not a geek at all! You're the coolest guy I know."

Are those hearts in her eyes? Bitch. Can she back the fuck up? He's not a piece of meat.

Jisung looks totally lost, clearly flustered and very uncomfortable. He turns to you for guidance and you each around him to peel her hand off his arm, starting to regret your plan of having them go together.

But for some weird reason, she didn't get an invite. What were you supposed to do? Did the author just forget that important detail?

"Sounds like you guys have a plan then." That came out a little more offended than intended.

"Yeah," Your Name agrees with a soft giggle. "Should I meet you there?"

"I'll pick you up." Because that's what a gentleman does.

"Kay." She sways back and forth for a moment just looking at him, eventually picking up her tray and gathering her bookbag. "See you later then, Sungie."

She practically skips away, her little skirt bouncing at her thighs. Jisung watches until she's out of the building, out of the scene, out of sight. And then he collapses in the booth with a tired sigh.

"That was intense."

"Sungie?" You mock and cross your arms. "Where does she get off calling you Sungie? You're not even dating, it's just a party."

"If you're that jealous, you can call me Sungie too."

"I'm not jealous." your reply is a little too fast, mumbling after, "...nothing to be jealous about."

He wants to call you out, but you're too cute like this, and he doesn't want to stifle your jealousy just yet. So instead, he lets you grumble through the rest of your meal together, resting his cheek in his hand and chuckling to himself each time you stuff your cheeks a bit too full to keep yourself from cursing.

::

Jisung doesn't own trendy clothes. Actually, in this universe, he doesn't own any extra clothes. Turns out when you get transported into a fanfic, your dorm room doesn't come with you. A dumb rule, but whatever.

Thankfully, Minho is kind enough to lend him some party wear at your request. Not that the archery star is obligated to share his exclusive wardrobe, but he wants to get on your good side, and Jisung is in desperate need of an upgrade.

Jisung steps out of the closet and grimaces. "It's a little…tight."

"That's the point." Minho whistles. "Girls like tight."

"I like breathing."

"You look hot.”

Despite his requests for something more comfortable, Minho is not the most accommodating character. His compliments help a little bit, but Jisung can't sit down without popping a button and that's an issue.

After Jisung has been dressed, comes the agonizing process of choosing what Minho will wear to his own party. He leans against the door frame while Minho pulls more shirts from the closet and tosses them on the bed one by one.

"So," Jisung talks in the meantime, casually looking at his feet and the walls, "You sure you're cool coming with me to pick up Your Name?"

"Yeah, of course, man," Minho says, trying on the first top and checking it out in the mirror. "___ will be there anyway, so I'll just pick her up at the same time."

The fact that Minho was not going to pick you up without the convenience of Jisung's date is just outrageous. As if guys should need a reason to be gentlemen. If you ask Jisung, Minho needs a reality check. How ironic.

"Plus she's your girlfriend, so I don't mind," Minho adds.

Jisung's eyes go wide. "Your Name? She's not my girlfriend.”

"She's not?" Minho seems shocked, but then shrugs it off. "Oh."

"Oh?"

"It's just…does she know that?"

"What do you mean?"

Minho sighs as if he's not supposed to be sharing this secret information. He slips a shirt over his head, taking his time answering while Jisung's concern grows out of hand.

"Your Name has been going around telling everyone that you asked her to the party, so people just kinda assumed you two are a thing."

"I didn't – I mean, I guess I did sorta ask her, but it was more of a convenience thing. I don't like her like that," Jisung says.

"No worries, man, you don't have to explain anything to me."

Surprised his answer was satisfactory, Jisung decides now may be an excellent time to lure the conversation in a different direction. He's not only here to get an outfit for the party, he's here on a mission. Step one is to get Minho thinking about Your Name.

"So like, if someone else wanted to ask out Your Name, that'd be totally fine."

"Cool."

Jisung nonchalantly drags his toe across the ground, shrugging as if his next comment isn't meant to be important.

"Would you ask her out?"

"Me?" Minho chuckles to himself, "I mean, she's cute, but I don't really know her that well. I'm glad you're the one bringing her actually."

"Why?"

"Your Name is friends with ___, right?"

Uh oh. Jisung doesn't like where this is going. There was a sliver of hope left that Minho hadn't completely counted Your Name out of the game, but it looks like his worst fear is becoming more and more real.

"I'd rather get to know ___ better to be honest. She's less, you know, ditsy."

Well, Jisung can't argue with that statement. He keeps trying, he has to. Even if the hope of getting out of this story without any broken hearts is already long gone.

"Your Name is cute though," he says in a positive tone.

"Yeah, of course she is." Minho's head drops back and he smiles at the ceiling like an idiot. "But ___ is…"

Incredible? Enchanting? Hilarious? Genuine? Smart? Dedicated? Inspirational?

"Hot."

Jisung waits for him to say something else – something about your humor or sense of individuality or favorite shape of dino nuggies – but Minho doesn't mention any of Jisung's favorite things about you.

"Just hot?"

"What, you don't think so?"

"Of course, I think she's attractive."

"You'd have to be blind not to," Minho winks, gathering his shoes and spritzing some cologne into the air just to walk under it. "Besides, I'm supposed to be with the hottest girl on campus."

"Who said that?"

Minho's attitude shifts for a moment, something somber that makes him appear more human than he has before. His usual main character glow dims, and a filter flickers for just a moment, long enough for Jisung to glimpse something that was hidden before.

"Well…if I'm not supposed to get the girl, then what? What am I even here for?"

It's a weird moment, one that Jisung isn't quite sure how to label. There's a dullness in Minho's eyes, behind which is a thought he'd never thought before. His eyes lower to the floor in a few blinks, the corners of his lips sinking too, and then it hits Jisung like a truck.

Minho isn't happy. Not by a long shot.

He shakes it off as soon as Jisung notices it and plasters his winning, stunning smile over whatever realism was showing.

"How do I look?"

Like the boy of every girl's dream. It hurts a little bit to look at Minho and know that's your type. Because Jisung will never be that guy. It's not his character, not his profile. He won't ever be a fanfic boy who wears designer clothes and always says the right thing and has perfect hair. He won't ever be good at archery or acting, or be able to make you swoon simply by walking across the room.

You want a Minho guy, and that's not Jisung.

"You’re perfect."

::

Your Name is pretty, there's no question. The girl of every boy's dream. But her wardrobe is…well. Let's just say her style is a bit bright compared to your preferred color palette.

"Come on!" She urges you, bouncing on her bed and clapping her dainty hands. "Let's see it!"

This is so stupid. Clothes are not this important, so why you have to try on fifteen different outfits just to make a fanfic character happy doesn't sound logical. Then again, has anything in this world been logical so far?

You shyly step out of the closet and into view, pulling down the material of your skirt to your mid-thigh. Layers of bracelets and patterned stockings flatter your body type while your halter top shows off round shoulders.

"Wow," she says breathlessly, "you're beautiful."

Okay maybe you feel a little pretty, but you didn't come here to get compliments. As long as she doesn't make you change again, perhaps you can actually make some progress on the story.

"Make up time!" Your Name announces, patting the seat in front of her mirror for you to sit.

"Oh, I don't need any, thanks."

"Of course, you don't need any, but it's fun to wear it," she gives you a sassy shoulder and clicks her tongue, gesturing for you to sit anyway.

Her smile says you don't have a choice.

As she starts with some foundation, you figure this is as good as any time to talk about what girls usually talk about during scenes like this.

"So, boys," you start with an awkward chuckle, "they're cute, huh?”

"Boys are the best!"

"Especially Minho. He's super cute, right?" You open one eye while she does the shadow for the other.

Her lips spread into a sly grin, pausing your makeup so she can gasp. "Do you like Minho?"

"What? Me? No!"

"You totally do! You have a crush on Minho, oh my god! That's so cute, ___, you guys are so cute together. I can totally see it!"

"No! I don't have a crush on Minho, he's just a friend. I swear."

"Oh." She seems disappointed. "But isn't he taking you to his party?"

"He's – well, yeah – but it's more of a convenience thing. I don't like him like that."

"Then who's your crush?"

"It's–"

Whoa, were you about to say Jisung? You'd have to cut your tongue off if it did that. Unacceptable and unhelpful, why would he even be on your mind right now? This scene isn't about who you like anyway.

"I don't have a crush." Playing it off with a vague statement is probably wise.

Your Name pauses where she stands, a glitch-like twitch on her lips when she tries to respond. She starts to speak but backspaces over and over, like an unsure author rewriting a line again and again.

"But you're total girlfriend material," she finally gets a full sentence out.

"Thanks, but that doesn't mean I have to crush on someone."

She actually looks a little worried for you as well as confused. "Then what do you do all day?"

"Go to school, take pictures, study, hang out with friends, write fanfi – uhh, write fantasy stories." That was a close one. "Just whatever makes me happy."

"Oh."

It's very faint, but you swear you see her eyes dull for a moment. Her main character gleam fickles out and what's left seems…real. Her shoulders slump into a lower position, the usual pep in her limbs drained while this seemingly brand new concept swims in her mind.

She looks down at herself unimpressed, unhappy.

"Do you wanna change your clothes? They look uncomfortable," you ask slowly, not wanting to assume but also not trying to hinder whatever sudden character development may be happening.

"Oh no! I wasn't…well, I'm supposed to…I dressed up for Sungie," she tells you innocently, "but the skirt is kinda…short, I think."

You take her hands and smile confidently. "Do you have an outfit you feel more comfortable in?"

She nods.

"Then you should wear that instead."

"What if Sungie doesn't like it?"

"So what? To hell with what Jisung thinks. To hell with what any boy thinks. You should wear what you want, not dress for some boy." You stand with half done makeup, Your Name's gaze following you in wonder and amazement. "Is it in your closet?"

She tentatively follows behind, watching you search through the many dresses and skirts hanging prettily organized by color and style.

"Which one is it?"

Your Name shyly points to the very back of the closet, to a small dresser with a single drawer. You open it and immediately gasp.

"Your Name, this is perfect!"

"Really?"

"Of course!" You pull out the clothes and hold them up to her frame, giggling at the sight of her lips slowly twisting into perhaps the first genuine smile you've witnessed from her. "It's your favorite outfit, right?"

"Yeah," she shyly admits. "Because it's comfy."

Then your eyes light up brighter than any main character, an aura of gentleness and genius emitting from your very body.

"Do you have a second pair?"

::

He's not sure why he's so nervous. It's not like this is a legit date, plus he doesn't even like Your Name.

Minho gives him a nudge. "Smile when she comes down the stairs. Girls like that."

The previous conversation lingers in Jisung's mind, different possible outcomes if he had said something else, if he had kept the convo focused on Your Name for a little while longer. Eventually, the boys got to talking about archery and Minho led the conversation from there with hardly enough time for Jisung to comment.

For what it was all worth, Jisung didn't mind hearing about the different types of arrows and their tendencies when matched with a recurve bow versus a compound bow. Minho is clearly passionate about it, so he let the fanfic character rant. It's what friends do.

"Are they almost done?" Minho checks his phone and chuckles. "Girls. They take forever to get all dolled up, huh? It's cute that ___ wants to look nice for me."

Jisung starts to reply, but it's pointless when you arrive at the top of the stairs.

"Hi, guys! Sorry for making you wait."

With absolutely zero concern for your posture, you skip down the stairs, jumping off the last one and landing directly in front of Minho.

"I'm ready!"

He gawks at you, blinking and unable to utter a single word. You're wearing a blue sweatshirt with matching solid blue sweatpants. Your hair is tied up, all makeup cleaned off, and ugg boots with bows on the back. The only accessory is a cute pair of casual studs in your ears that match your blue aesthetic.

You give him a once-over and smile. "You look nice, Minho."

"___," Jisung catches your attention while Minho glitches, unable to hold in his laugh when you rock on your tiptoes and hold your hands behind your back, "what's with the sweatsuit?"

"Your Name picked it out."

"She did?" He's surprised, as expected.

"Yep!" You turn back to the stairs and call for the last member of your group. "Come on, we're gonna be late!"

All eyes are on Your Name as she appears in a matching pink set of sweats and classic black ugg boots. Her usually perfect hair is half up-half down in a braided bun, and this moment officially marks the first time a boy has ever seen her without makeup.

She shyly begins her descent, immediately reaching for your hand when she joins the group.

"Hi, Sungie," she swallows nervously.

"Hi, Your Name," he smiles, offering her his hand instead. "You look cute in pink.”

“Thanks.”

Her hand slips out of yours and into his. The lovely way his fingers fold between hers, the physical comfort leaking from his touch as it fills every crevice of her self-doubt. You're happy for her in this moment…but fuck, something hurts too.

She's glowing. Not solely because of Jisung. But because she's finally starting to be a main character of her own story. You can see it in the way her smile stretches across her face. There's something different about this one, something much more real.

You're smiling too, on the inside. But for some reason, you can't bring yourself to show it on the outside. All you can do is stare at their hands and feel your chest cave in on itself.

The rest of the world blurs into a hazy background, a lonely melody hums in the distance. The only thing in focus…him. Him and his precious, strawberry cheeks.

You should have expected this. After Your Name's comments left your thoughts in tune with your feelings for him, a slow-mo moment was inevitable. Still, it manages to catch you off guard because…he's not looking at you.

He's looking at her.

Unblinking, gentle eyes scan from head to toe in awe of what they see. His lips part when he talks like a magician using a spell to keep you mesmerized. The sound of your heart thuds in your ears, only getting louder and faster the longer you see him with her. But no matter how loud your heartbeat is, he doesn't hear it. Doesn't even acknowledge you while he's got her in his sights.

He's playing his part, the one you told him to play. But now you're upset because he's playing it too well!

"You look cute in blue." Minho is the one who breaks the slo-mo by offering you his arm, unashamed to have you on it now that he's done belly laughing at the initial shock of seeing you dressed so casually for his party. "Shall we?"

The costume change didn't work, at least not like you wanted. It seems Minho didn't notice Your Name at all after he saw you. Even worse, Your Name couldn't care less about Minho right now either.

Things keep getting more and more complicated. As you walk with Minho behind the other couple, you examine Your Name when she looks at Jisung, when she talks to him, when she touches him. And it's very clear.

Not only does Minho not have a crush on Your Name, but now Your Name's attention has been swept away seemingly for good too.

And you realize…Jisung is glowing like a main character. But when you look at Minho, his aura is as quiet as yours.

Shit.

-------------------------------------------------------

Part 2 ->

[candyquokka]

heads up: alcohol mentions (drunk reader).

if there's one thing jisung knows about you, it's that you are... probably the most affectionate drunk he's ever met. the giggliest, too, because you've giggled at too many of his friends' bad jokes at this point in the night. he's got an arm loosely around you as the two of you lean against the side of minho's car, waiting for him to finally round up felix and drive all of you home. all jisung wants right now is to go home and recharge for a week straight... and maybe also cuddle with you as soon as he possibly can, if you're up to it.

but right now, you're giggling at penguin videos on his phone (distraction tactic... employed by yourself to use on yourself, apparently), and all he can do is just smile as he watches you.

"jisungie... gonna find you a nice rock..." you sway into his side a little, grinning to yourself as you keep your eyes glued to his phone. he'll end up with so, so many more videos... but he isn't complaining. "gonna get you some kinda pebble..."

he snorts a little, pressing a kiss against the side of your face. "and if i already bought you a rock?"

"gonna buy you one anyway." you finally look away from his phone, just to lean in and start pressing kisses against his cheeks. you're still giggling, all too giddy to have him next to you, and he just fights back the urge to laugh. "gotta make sure my baby has all the pretty things..."

maybe it's a good thing he never carries the ring on him. he'd be getting down on one knee right here and now if he did.

[candyquokka]

me tweaking out trying to find that one good fanfic

[candyquokka]

📱Random Texts w/ BF!SKZ 5 (Kiss Edition)📱

☀️Feelbokkie M.list☀️

genre: crack mostly, some fluff

pov: 1st/2nd person (depends on how you read it)

description: random texts with boyfie skz that all somehow ended up mentioning kissing

pairing: boyfriend!skz x reader

warnings: swearing, mention of kissing (rated G for every one)

screenshot count: 23

©feelbokkie (2024) — all rights reserved. reposting/modification of any kind is not tolerated.

방찬 (Bang Chan)

이민호 (Lee Know)

서창빈 (Changbin)

황현진 (Hyunjin)

한지성 (Han)

이용복 (Felix)

김승민 (Seungmin)

양정인 (I.N)

—

Buy me a coffee?

—

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[candyquokka]

Video so real

[candyquokka]

Give yourself kindness when things are a mess! Whether it's physically in your space, or more abstractly in your life, we all need time to sort things out and get the right processes in place.

Chibird store | Positive pin club | Instagram

[candyquokka]

thinking about non-sexual intimacy with skz. chan draping your body on top of his because he likes to feel the pressure of your weight on him as a physical reminder of your presence. minho holding your hand to his cheek while you watch movies together, and you can feel his skin heat up under your palm. changbin nuzzling his face into your stomach whenever he gets the chance, going at it harder when you laugh from how it tickles. hyunjin having his hands buried into your hair all the time twirling and braiding random strands together absentmindedly. jisung resting his chin on your neck, shoulder, thigh, wherever is most convenient for him. felix tangling your fingers together at all moments like he would die without touching you all the time. seungmin pressing kisses into your skin whenever he passes by you, no matter what you're doing. jeongin moving your arms around his waist for a hug because he doesn't like to ask for it, he'll take it for himself.

[candyquokka]

hey^^ could you write lee know angst. idk i was thinking maybe childhood bsf to lovers and hurt/comfort. like minho has a crush on reader but reader has a boyfriend. maybe the boyfriend just broke up with them so minho comforts them…

first of all, sorry this took me like 85 years omg

second, i combined these two requests, i hope that's okay! the story is angsty, but has a happy ending (bc i can't handle bad endings lol)

enjoy <3

Minho’s heart was absolutely breaking. Seeing you like this, hunched over in your pajamas and sobbing your heart out… He didn’t know what to do with himself. He was rubbing your back and handing you tissues intermittently, lightly scrunching his nose when you put the snotty paper directly on your bed sheets afterwards. Still, he didn’t say anything.

He had received a call from you at 1:15am, and had fully intended on telling you (fondly, of course) to get lost before hanging up on you. His words had been caught in his throat as soon as he heard your sniffles and muffled sobs, shooting out of bed and starting to get dressed before he even knew what was wrong. Through your sobbing, all Minho could decipher was that your boyfriend had cheated on you, and he had never considered hiring a hitman before, but damn if it didn’t seem tempting.

When he had arrived at your apartment, he had let himself in with the code you had entrusted him with. He kicked his shoes off, not caring where they went as he speed-walked to your bedroom. He had knocked on the door gently, so gently you had barely heard him over your loud sniffles and stuffy nose. You had attempted to make yourself look less pathetic before calling him inside. You had failed miserably.

Of course, to Minho you looked beautiful, even with snot and tears covering half your face. He had gently sunk down next to you on your bed and given you a gentle smile. You had attempted to smile back, but your face ended up screwed up in pain as you remembered the reason why your best friend was interrupting your crying session. His chest felt like it was in a million knots at the sight of you, sobbing and crying and so obviously hurting.

“I’m s-so sorry for c-calling you here,” you got out through sobs, blowing your nose immediately after and depositing the tissue with the others on the bed next to you. It was disgusting, yes, but you did not have the energy to go fetch a trash can. “I know y-you didn’t even l-like him.”

This was true. Minho had always hated your ex, and in his mind, he had good reason to do so. In reality? Prior to today, not so much. He hadn’t realized he was in love with you until you were a good month into your relationship, and honestly, that was on him. The fact that you were in a relationship should have made Minho happy, and mostly, it kind of did; when he didn’t have to see the guy who was making you happy, that was.

Minho himself had always had high standards for himself in relationships. He always made sure to remember his significant other’s schedule, their favorite foods and restaurants, their plans with their friends… Your boyfriend had never done any of this, so he couldn’t help but think that he could treat you better. He had kept his distance, though - you had seemed so happy with the other guy, as much as he personally thought you shouldn’t be.

“I don’t care about him,” Minho scoffed. “I’m here because you’re sad. What the fuck has that got to do with him?”

He knew he sounded angry and resentful. He was. He just hoped you didn’t pick up on the poorly masked jealousy in his voice, because as much as he wanted to finally confess to you now that you were presumably single, you needed time to heal first, and he was more than happy to grant it.

He smiled when you snorted out a laugh; nothing would ever compare to your laugh, your smile. One of the seemingly endless knots in his chest loosened a little. God, he was down bad. His heart hurt when more tears flowed down your cheeks, seemingly without your permission, in spite of your laughter.

“Well, that might be true, but I figured you’d be all smug about it,” you muttered back, glaring at him jokingly.

Minho had never felt such relief as when you stopped stuttering through your sentences and started bantering with him. You were always beautiful to him, but seeing you in pain was more than his heart could handle.

“Mm, I still might be,” he teased back with a shit-eating grin. You scoffed and smacked his shoulder, which he jokingly clutched in mock pain. “Heartbreak makes you strong, what the fuck.”

Briefly, he froze. What if he had said the wrong thing? What if he made you burst into tears again? He was already thinking about ways to punish himself for hurting you (mostly through means of making you happy, which honestly wouldn’t be much of a punishment for him) when you laughed again. The sound loosened yet another knot in his chest. He looked over at you in relief, unable to stop himself from smiling softly at the spark that finally reappeared in your eyes.

“I’m sure it’s the heartbreak, and not you being a wimp.”

He gasped and tackled you to the bed, tickling you mercilessly until you were crying - this time out of laughter. Maybe the knots weren’t endless, after all.

~*~

After spending the night at your apartment, completely unwilling to leave you alone, Minho took you out to get coffee in the morning. He insisted on paying, and since your head felt like it was full of cotton, you didn’t care to argue all that much. Your eyes were puffy and your nose was still a little red from the absolute meltdown you’d had not even 12 hours prior, but you had showered, brushed your hair and put on jeans, so you counted it as a win. Apparently, someone else appreciated your effort. While you were sitting at the table waiting for Minho to bring you your food and coffee, a pretty cute guy approached you.

“Excuse me,” he said gently.

You tore your eyes away from your phone, startled. You had been watching a cute TikTok of kittens - a truly pathetic attempt to make yourself feel better, even if it did make you smile a little - and had not anticipated social interaction. Your eyes were wide as you looked at him, but the man just beamed charmingly at you.

“Hi, I’m Hyunjin,” he introduced himself, stretching his hand out for you to shake. You still looked (and felt) confused as you shook his hand and mumbled your name in return, which Hyunjin found very cute. “I’m sorry, I don’t normally do this, but uhm… I was wondering if maybe I could give you my number? I know this might come off as a bit creepy, so I’m sorry if that’s the case.”

His rambling was adorable to you, so just laughed lightly. You didn’t really know what to do with this situation, seeing as you weren’t even technically single yet, much less over your last boyfriend. You figured since you would be the one in possession of the (actually pretty cute) guy’s number, you had nothing to lose really. Plus, honestly, it gave you a bit of an ego boost.

“You’re fine. Uhm, sure, I’ll take your number I guess,” you answered eventually, biting your lip to keep from grinning like an idiot.

Minho was watching the exchange from the counter. He felt like he was losing his one shot with you, especially considering how handsome the guy who was obviously flirting with you was. The stupid guy even got you to smile, despite your last relationship going up in flames mere hours ago. He watched as the guy input his number into your phone, his heart cracking.

“Two lattes and two scones for Minho,” the barista said, handing the boy a tray with his order on it.

Minho snapped out of his reverie and started walking toward the table you had picked out. His timing was perfect, because he didn’t have to interact with the dude - he could barely catch the guy’s quick “hope to hear from you soon” before he had slinked away, grinning like an idiot.

He couldn’t let you know that he was feeling jealous, dejected and heartbroken - those were feelings reserved for you to feel. So, he bravely plastered a smug smirk on his face and teasingly lifted an eyebrow as he approached, the blush coloring your cheeks making his heart speed up without his permission.

“Someone’s got game,” he teased. God, the words felt so wrong to him. He wanted to fall to his knees, wanted to beg you not to look at anyone other than him ever again, wanted to beg for your sunny smile to never leave your face; but he couldn’t. He wouldn’t. What you needed was a friend, despite your somewhat positive reaction to what’s-his-face’s advances.

“Shut up,” you mumbled, grabbing your scone from the tray he was putting on the table.

“What, don’t wanna tell me about how you’re less heartbroken because I am amazing?” he teased. You glared at him, your eyes flicking between his face and the butterknife you were holding menacingly. “Calm down there, bucko. Anyway, do you think you’re gonna call him?”

Minho wasn’t sure he wanted to know the answer, but something in him felt the need to ask either way. Maybe he was a masochist; somehow, he felt like not knowing at all would hurt more than knowing. You considered his words for a moment or two, taking a tentative sip of your drink in the meantime. Your beauty struck him hard in that moment - he couldn’t really blame that guy for asking for your number, honestly.

“I don’t know yet,” you sighed as you placed your cup onto the table between you. “I mean, he’s cute, but I don’t even know what’s going on with me and….” You sighed again. “I’ll figure it out.”

As much as Minho wanted you to feel better, he couldn’t help but hope that you wouldn’t text that guy. Maybe he was selfish (he definitely was) but his heart was breaking at the mere thought of watching you enter a new relationship with someone that wasn’t him. If you noticed that his smiles were tighter after that, you didn’t mention it.

~*~

Minho was helping you clean your fridge and freezer out when the subject of your love life came up again. It had only been about a week, but you were already doing much better. You had texted your asshole of an ex to end things the day you went to the café, armed with the knowledge that breaking up over text was nowhere near as bad as cheating on someone. It wasn’t exactly taking the high road, but fuck that - you were hurt and you didn’t want to see him ever again. Minho approved.

“So,” you started, and your best friend hummed from where he was hunched over your freezer. Him “helping” was actually him doing it for you; he knew you hated doing it more than anything, and he would do anything for you. In your defense, you were doing the dishes that had been piling up since your breakup. “I texted Hyunjin today.”

Minho’s movements paused for half a second. “Hyunjin?” he asked. He could only assume it was the guy from the café, but he hoped not.

Actually, he hoped you were just joking and the only person you had texted was him. Not that you weren’t allowed to text others, but his feelings for you had been growing exponentially as you spent more time together over the past few weeks, and considering he had already been very much in love with you, he was down bad. His first thought in the morning always looked suspiciously like your eyes, and his last thought at night usually sounded an awful lot like your laughter when he did something deliberately stupid. Screw down bad, he was falling down a bottomless pit and he just kept gaining speed.

“The guy from the café,” you said, focusing on scrubbing one of the particularly dirty plates. Your best friend took a deep breath in and blocked his unwarranted, jealous thoughts - they could remain in his head all they wanted, but he refused to let them taint his time with you. It was too precious for petty arguments.

“Ah,” he mumbled in reply, pulling out the last shelf from your freezer. When he stood up straight, his back crackled concerningly, making you look up from the sink at him and giggle. He considered doing it again just to hear your laugh again; it made his chest expand with a particular brand of happiness only you had the power to grant him. “Did he respond?”

Did he want to know? No, this time he definitely did not; however, he knew that you would get suspicious if he didn’t ask, so he resigned himself to hearing about it. He figured that even if he couldn’t have you in the way he wanted, he could at least look after you. He had done it before, as much as it had killed him.

“He did,” you answered, and Minho could hear your smile without even looking up. It was bittersweet, you being happy because of someone else.

“So you do have game, I’m impressed,” he teased. Your happiness trumped his, any day of the week.

“Shut up,” you whined and promptly flicked soapy water at him, making him screech like a hyena - mostly to make you laugh, but the water did feel cold as fuck. “We decided to go get coffee together, I guess, but I don’t know how I feel about it.” You turned back to the dishes, scrubbing intently at the same plate.

Even though you said it casually, like it didn’t matter to you at all, Minho heard the tension in your voice. He immediately dropped everything, standing up and turning to you. You always had 100% of his attention (the poor man couldn’t help it) but now he was laser focused. You were feeling bad in some capacity, and he couldn’t stand for it.

“Hey,” he said gently, placing a hand on your shoulder. He almost kissed you when you looked up at him, your eyes sparkling and looking so domestic in your rubber gloves. He forced himself to move on. “If you don’t want to go, you don’t have to, okay?”

You nodded distractedly, looking down at the soapy water filled with dishes. “It’s not that I don’t want to,” you muttered, “I do. I just… Feel like I’m not done. With… him. He really hurt me, Min.”

The tears in your eyes made him wonder what it would take to hire that hitman he had been thinking about two weeks earlier - it would probably be worth it. No, it definitely would, your happiness was more valuable than literally anything else, ever. He gently placed his arm around your waist, squeezing carefully. You smiled at him, giggling slightly. It was a sad sound, but better than crying.

“I know, baby,” he answered, leaning his head on top of yours as you placed the (finally clean) plate on the drying rack and picked up a wine glass. “Look, if you want to go, you should. Just tell me when you guys are meeting up, and I’ll make sure I’m free and I can come to the rescue if you need me to, yeah?”

You didn’t even blink as you dropped the glass in the sink and threw your arms around your best friend. Your tears spilled over your lower lashes, tracing streaks down your cheeks, but you didn’t care; your best friend was the best person in the entire world.

~*~

Minho was pacing. You were on your date with Hyunjin - was it even a date? - and he was feeling more restless than he had in his entire life. He was glad you had decided that your happiness was more important than the hurt your absolute dick of an ex had caused you, but he couldn’t deny the large cracks in his heart at the thought that he wasn’t the one bringing you said happiness.

When he received a text from you, he jumped to read it and answer it as soon as possible. He started walking toward the door before he even read it, just to be prepared if you needed him to come running.

y/nnie: it’s all good, min! no need to come :)

y/nnie: thank u for looking out for me <3

Oh. Well. He felt relieved as well as disappointed. He pushed the disappointment back as far as he could, hoping to bury it forever. He sat down on the couch and stared at his living room wall as his heart broke. Fuck.

~*~

“So how was your date yesterday?” Minho asked as casually as he could when you met up the next day. He only asked after you had pushed him onto your couch and stuck a facemask on his skin, his head tilted back. He basked in your touch.

“What?” you laughed, shaking your head as you pushed another mask onto your own skin beside him. “Min, it wasn’t a date.”

His mind felt numb. He was trying so hard to force himself not to get his hopes up again, to not allow himself joy for your lack of romantic interest in this Hyunjin guy. He closed his eyes but raised his eyebrows, his head lolling toward you in a manner designed to make you laugh. You did. He felt successful.

“Look,” you sighed. “Hyunjin also thought it was a date at first, and honestly, I thought so too. But then I just… It felt irresponsible and unfair to go on a date when I know for a fact that I am not ready for it, that I’m not emotionally available enough for that. It felt mean, honestly. So we talked, and I told him how I felt, and he said it was all cool. We’re friends now, and I set him up with Ryujin. She was ecstatic, by the way.”

Minho listened carefully to your explanation. He always listened to you, but this time he really analyzed every single word that spilled from your lips. He opened his eyes to look at you once you went silent, his chest filling with butterflies when your form registered in his brain. You were wearing sweatpants and a tank top, your hair a complete and utter mess on top of your head and looking like some kind of bank robber because of your facemask; and yet, you were the most beautiful creature he had ever seen.

If you had been dating, he’s pretty sure he would have proposed just like that. Just ask you. Because that was so you and Minho, it epitomized your relationship; easy, casual, no need for embellishment or pretense. Just… you. And him. He hoped he would get the opportunity to propose to you one day.

“I’m sure she was,” he muttered, rolling his eyes. You snorted, and he fell deeper.

“Anyway,” you continued, “Hyunjin is a cool guy. We just didn’t… click like that. And even if we did-” you stopped yourself, shaking your head with a sigh. “He’s not for me. I’m not ready now.”

“You know,” Minho started gently, making you look into his eyes. He smiled a little at the thought of how you must look, both covered in facemasks and gazing into each other’s eyes softly. You sunk back on the couch and leaned your head back over the back, just like he was doing. “I don’t think you will be ready to date until you have a conversation with Fuckface McGee.”

His uncreative name for your ex made you burst into laughter, and Minho felt like he could fly. You looked beautiful like that, head tilted back, eyes scrunched up and mouth open in unabashed laughter. He filed the image away in his mind along with the countless other precious memories he had with you.

“You might be right,” you said when you had sobered up, the ghost of a smile still lingering on your lips. “Maybe I should… talk to him. Meet him.”

The room was silent for a while. He felt your hand sneak closer to his, and he grabbed it without hesitation. You often sought comfort from him like that, finding physical contact with him steadying. The silence was nice, comfortable and thick with unspoken affection for one another and the relationship you had. Minho started to feel sleepy.

When the timer went off, signalling for you to take the facemasks off, you shuffled into the bathroom together. As you were stood side by side, he caught your gaze in the mirror. He saw the discomfort, the insecurity and the pain that filled you and gave you the smile that never failed to fill you with calm.

“Again,” he said, “let me know when you’re meeting and I’ll make sure that I’m available.”

Your heart clenched.

~*~

“I met up with him today,” you said offhandedly as you watched a movie together a few weeks later.

It took a few seconds for the meaning of your words to sink in, but when they did Minho’s entire body stiffened. He didn’t need to ask who - your tone (combined with the proverbial storm cloud that seemed to have made its home above your head for the day) clued him into the fact that you were talking about your cheating scumbag of an ex. He didn’t know what to do. He had spent the past weeks helping you recover from what that asshole did to you, but he hadn’t actually asked you where your relationship stood. He decided that the best approach was to be nonchalant, objective; just be there for whatever you had decided to do. Even if it might kill him.

He knew he was being dramatic - he had seen you in a relationship before, it wasn’t new to him. The problem was that he finally felt like he could breathe now that he didn’t have to see you be in love with someone who wasn’t him, when he could finally start to cautiously give you hints about his feelings. He was sure you didn’t notice his advances, if you could even call them that. He was too much of a coward to do much.

“Okay,” he answered slowly, waiting for you to continue without taking his eyes away from the TV. He had no idea what was happening on screen. “I thought you were going to let me know when you were meeting? Did it go okay?”

“Don’t worry,” you chuckled humorlessly, “we did not get back together. Nor will we ever.” He felt like fist-pumping the air. “I just decided that I deserved closure, and went in there with that attitude.”

“You do,” he agreed, finally turning to look you in the eyes. “What he did was fucked up, Y/n. Never forget that.”

You laughed lightly and nodded, ruffling his hair a little. You turned around and rested your back against his chest, continuing to watch the movie. Minho wouldn’t be able to do that if he wanted, the weight of you against him combined with the smell of you too much for him. He prayed you couldn’t feel his heart beating against your back and did his best to relax and savor the moment.

“Actually,” you hesitantly spoke up after a minute or two, “he told me something.”

“Oh?” he hummed back, fingers absentmindedly playing with a strand of your hair. It was so soft.

“He, uh, he thinks you have feelings for me,” you mumbled, reaching down to play with the hem of your shirt.

Minho’s entire body went rigid. What the hell was he supposed to say to that? He did have feelings for you - actually, scratch that, he was full-on in love with you. He wanted to date you, move in with you, marry you, have kids with you and grow old with you. Without you in his life, everything looked bleak. Could he really tell you, though? What if it made you uncomfortable? What if you thought that all these weeks of him helping you get over Fuckface McGee was some sort of plan to woo you? It wasn’t, he hoped you knew that, but…

He was scared, but he couldn’t help but feel excited at the prospect of finally letting his feelings out. Being able to tell you felt like a huge relief, no matter the outcome. He decided to let the excitement win.

“I- uhm.”

Okay. Fucking great start, Minho. Truly fantastic stuff.

“I told him he was crazy, of course, but… Do you? Like me, I mean. As more than a friend.”

Your voice was so small, so careful, and he hated that you were holding back. You never held back with him, and he never wanted you to. He wanted to know everything about you, every single thought that went through your head. For once, prioritizing your feelings over his own meant that he could prioritize himself, too.

“I do.”

The answer made it feel like time was standing still. You were frozen, staring up at him. He was frozen, staring right back. He couldn’t breathe. The TV chattering on in the background faded away, feeling almost alien in the tense moment where nothing else seemed to move.

After at least 30 seconds of silence, Minho decided that he’d had enough. He took your stunned silence as a rejection, and knew that he would need to move on. That was okay, as long as he got to have you in his life as a friend.

“Y/n, it’s literally okay if you don’t feel the same. I will be in your life in whatever capacity you want me to be. I get it if you need a break from spending time with me while I sort my feelings out, but-”

“Please don’t.”

Your words made him stop. What the hell did that mean? Did you want him to stop talking? He could feel all his earlier bravado slowly exit his body, and decided to let you take the reins. As long as you were comfortable in every situation with him, he couldn’t care less what happened between you.

“I didn’t mean- I don’t-” You stopped and took a deep breath. “I didn’t mean for you to stop talking. I always want to hear what you have to say, so I’m sorry it came out like that. I meant… please don’t sort your feelings out. Unless sorting them out means that you want to be with me. Because I have been in love with you for years, and you’ve been so great these past few weeks that I-”

Your word-vomit was interrupted by your best friend’s lips on yours. He would apologize once he was finished kissing you, he would, but he couldn’t be held responsible for this reaction. He had been wanting to kiss you for so long, had been in love with you for so long, and it was finally reciprocated. You would forgive him. Hopefully.

Your lips were soft and warm against his, and you tasted like the strawberry chapstick you always wore as well as the chocolate popcorn you were eating during the movie. He would put up with your gross chocolate popcorn as long as you would be his. He couldn’t help the borderline moan that he exhaled when you kissed him back, and he definitely couldn’t stop the butterflies in his chest from erupting when he felt you smile against his lips. He was getting dizzy, but he wouldn’t stop; he couldn’t. You. You liked him. You liked him.

After a minute or two, you pulled away, breathing hard. The kiss hadn’t been particularly raunchy, but he always managed to steal your breath no matter what he did, so it didn’t surprise you that you were lacking oxygen after a simple kiss.

When you looked into his eyes, you saw the sparkles in them - the sparkles that you adored, the ones that would come out when he talked about his cats, his friends, and his latest experiment in the kitchen. The sparkles that only came out when he was truly happy. You couldn’t get any oxygen in your lungs if you tried, so you just collapsed against his chest, your face pressed into the crook of his neck.

Minho’s entire body erupted in goosebumps as he felt your breath brushing against the skin of his neck. He wrapped you in his arms as tight as he could, a big, dumb, dopey grin on his face. He was holding you. He had kissed you. You felt the same. He was flying.

“Please tell me you’re mine,” he whispered, pressing his lips to the top of your head. “Only if you want to be, of course, but I would really, really like it if you were mine. If I was yours.”

His words sent a shiver down your spine, the thought of him being yours sending your mind into an absolute frenzy. You extracted your face from his neck and looked into his eyes again, your legs turning to jello. Thank fuck you were laying down.

“I’m yours, Minho. And you’re mine.”

Your best friend - well, boyfriend - grinned so big he felt like his face was going to split in half. He couldn’t help himself and planted a big kiss on your lips again. You melted into him, resting comfortably against his chest. You felt safe and warm, and like you were exactly where you were meant to be.

Minho’s heart, which had been cracking continually for the past month, was healed. It was pounding against his chest, reminding him of the fact that he was alive and breathing, and that you loved him back.

a/n: thank you for reading!! i hope you enjoyed it. i would really appreciate if you liked and/or reblogged my fics, as it encourages me to keep writing <3

[candyquokka]

hyunjin: I give up. I am so tired.

jisung: Get the emergency supply!

minho: *carries jeongin and places him in front of hyunjin*

jeongin: *smiles*

hyunjin: AND I AM BACK BABY, LET’S GOOO

[candyquokka]

me when i don’t immediately excel in everything i do

[candyquokka]

Han jisung turning up to the jype contract renewal negotiations like:

[candyquokka]

Han jisung turning up to the jype contract renewal negotiations like:

[candyquokka]

Crystal Bird - Chapter 4

Crown Prince! Chan x Princess (fem.) Genre: Royal au! Angst, Romance, Historical, hidden identity, slow-burn Warnings: mentions of blood, war, death, cursing, parental abuse, somewhat proofread A/N: no cause I actually got mad at myself for this chapter 😭 Feedback is always welcome, enjoy! ──── MASTERLIST

Synopsis: The Crown Prince is saved by the Princess of a rival kingdom, and he swears his second life to his savior. A forbidden friendship no one knew of, grows deeper with every secret meeting. As the two are kept apart, memories of their sunset playdates by the serene river, begin blossoming into something beautiful. Cheeks blushed, stomach butterflies fluttered at the thought of each other. Years of yearning and imagining had only made them crave a sweeter reunion. And finally meeting at a Royal banquet, he could only stare at the now grown Princess, taken by her beauty, while she only watches as he gives his heart to the wrong princess.

Missed a chapter? - Prologue / Chapter 1 / Chapter 2 / Chapter 3

CHAPTER 4 ───────────────────

As the day of the foreign guests’ arrival approached, Princess Y/N ever so diligent, personally oversaw the final arrangements. And when the hour arrived, she stood poised and composed, ready to greet the foreign envoys with grace. Though it was never necessary for her to do so. The attendants and the Royal aids that were there to receive the delegates were taken aback by her presence, insisting they had it under control. The princess did not relent, making sure until the final hour, she was there to represent the Elysium royal family.

The exquisite carriage of the Eastern sea nation, Sylvancrest, arrived with its own fanfare, heralded by their band of guards and wagons laden with gifts. The Sylvancrest flag fluttered proudly as a footman hurried to open the main carriage.

Y/N, though nervous, maintained a calm expression as she prepared to greet the young prince who emerged from the carriage, followed by another young man in formal attire.

   “Greetings to the Prince of Sylvancrest. Welcome to the Kingdom of Elysium. I am Y/N, the second princess.” She greeted with a flawless curtsy.

She stole a quick glance at the handsome prince, his long hair shimmering in the wind. Prince Hyunjin smiled warmly and returned her greeting with a bow.

   “We are honored that our humble kingdom has been invited to celebrate with Elysium, and especially that a princess like yourself has come to greet us on our arrival.” His tone was smooth, honey-like, and the smile on his lips unwavering.

   “Thank you for gracing us with your attendance, Prince Hyunjin. The Kingdom of Sylvancrest has flourished over the past decade, and I am eager to learn more about it.” Y/N’s stance was gracious, her words charming, revealing her natural gift for diplomacy.

He then introduced the quiet man beside him. “This is my personal knight, Seungmin.”

The knight, bowed solemnly, acknowledging his introduction with quiet respect.

Y/N welcomed the honored guests, as did the Royal aides. Turning to the countless attendants awaiting behind her, she instructed them to lead Prince Hyunjin to Emerald Hall, his designated residence for the upcoming weeks. The Sylvancrest prince bid her goodbye with another polite smile.

As the Sylvancrest party departed, Y/N felt a sudden quiet settle over, contrasting sharply with the earlier flurry of activity. Her mother was right. This role was not typically suited for a princess. Yet, she stood there, determined and resolute. The afternoon air was warm, a slight breeze keeping her company as she awaited the arrival of the next foreign dignitaries. Soon, the approaching sounds of horses and carriage wheels announced the arrival of the Nightshade delegation. Tension hung palpably in the air around her as the infamous Nightshade envoy halted. Whispers among her attendants mingled with the soft breeze. Y/N eyed the band of warrior knights in their formal uniforms, mounted on their dark horses, waiting for their prince’s exit from the carriage. There was a mix of nervousness and curiosity coursing through her.

For some reason, she was even more nervous than she had been during Sylvancrest’s arrival. Was it because of the fearsome reputation of Nightshade, the warrior kingdom that even her maids and attendants spoke of in hushed tones? Or was it the lingering effect of her soft spot for a certain boy from Nightshade, that clouded her mind?

When the carriage door opened, Y/N smiled expectantly, ready to greet the Nightshade prince. Her eyes immediately fell on the young man who emerged, stiff and composed in his military uniform. Despite his handsome yet rigid demeanor, it was evident he wasn’t the crown prince. A flicker of surprise crossed Y/N’s face, quickly masked by a polite welcoming stance as he approached.

   “Greetings, I am Han, Crown Prince Christopher’s personal guard.” He introduced himself. 

The familiar name momentarily softened Y/N’s expression. She had almost forgotten about Han, the young boy she had once mistaken for a servant boy. The one who seemed to relish the treats she had sent his way. And despite her encouragement for him to join her in the open, he had steadfastly remained hidden, diligently watching over from the shadows of the forest. A sense of gratitude for Chan’s companion spread across her face, causing the personal guard in front of her to raise a curious brow at her expression.

The princess caught herself, reminding herself that he was not the Han she should feel grateful to. This Han was just the personal guard to the Nightshade Prince

The missing Nightshade Prince. 

Her eyes darted to the empty carriage Han had stepped out from. The prince’s guard seemed to have sensed her thoughts. An uneasy feeling pricked at him, but he managed to maintain his composure. How could he even begin to explain that the crown prince had jumped from the carriage near the Grand Forest, laughing as he instructed Han to concoct an excuse? Instead, he cleared his throat, and attempted to smile, though it appeared strained under the scrutiny of the aides that stood with her.

   “My prince was captivated by the clamor and richness of Elysium’s streets. He simply wished to explore closer.” Han explained.

The two royal aides shared a look, while Y/N blinked a little stunned.

   “Has he ventured out already? Is that permissible?” Y/N asks, a genuine curiosity etched across her face.

Han nodded reassuringly, a little proud even. “He is a warrior prince, and he is not alone. The bustling streets intrigued him, and he desired a closer look. He will return promptly, I assure you.”. 

The warrior guard attempted to gauge the expression of the young lady in front of him, wondering if his excuse had been satisfactory or if the prince’s absence itself was perceived as rude.

Y/N pondered for a moment, a sense of understanding washing over her. It made sense that the foreign prince, unfamiliar with Elysium would be curious. Turning to her attendants, she instructed again.

   “Once Crown Prince Christopher arrives, escort him to Ruby Hall. Ensure the Nightshade guards are settled in their quarters.”

Then, she turned back to face the warrior guard. 

   “Sir Han, welcome to the Kingdom of Elysium. I am Princess Y/N, Second Princess of Elysium.” She offered a respectful bow.

Han blinked in surprise, his eyes widened in shock as the introduction settled in his mind.

   “P-P-Princess?” He stammered, quickly returning a deep bow.

The princess chuckled softly, her demeanor gentle despite the tension. Some of her servants exchanged uneasy glances, uncertain how she could laugh in the presence of a Nightshade warrior. The aides shifted in their spots uncomfortably. But Y/N didn’t seem to notice, nor did she really care.

   “No need to be startled, Sir Han. Today has caught us both off guard.” Y/N reassured him, her smile warm.

   “Take Sir Han to his room at Ruby Hall as well.” The princess instructed another servant who promptly appeared by Han’s side.

   “I look forward to seeing you and your prince at the royal dinner tomorrow evening.” She bid farewell with a nod, her gentle smile lingering.

As Han followed the nervously fidgeting servant towards Ruby Hall, still a little upset of being thrown to the dogs by his prince and left to navigate this foreign palace alone, his thoughts lingered more prominently on the encounter he just had. Despite the discomfort among her entourage of servants and attendants, the princess had managed to put him somewhat at ease. Her introduction had struck him. 

Princess Y/N, the Second Princess of Elysium. 

Did Elysium always have more than one princess?

She seemed too mature to have been born during Han and Chris’ time in the White Mountains. I afraid to look him in the eyes while everyone around her stood stiff. His brows furrowed with uncertainty, a question lingering in his mind. Could she possibly be Chris’ princess?

Determination hardened in his gaze. He needed to confirm his suspicions, but it wouldn’t be easy, especially with everyone around him on edge. The guard eyes the tense servant leading him, coming to a conclusion that he would receive no help from this jittery attendant. The notorious reputation of Nightshade preceded him in Elysium, evident in the stiff demeanor of the maids and servants who crossed paths with the warriors. Prince Christopher would not take kindly to this reception, Han concluded, already anticipating his irritation.

But when the warrior prince was finally escorted to his chambers after his impromptu excursion, Han couldn’t ignore the murmurs of the maids spoke about his master’s striking looks and mysterious aura. Daring to draw comparisons with the apparently handsome Sylvancrest Prince. Though they were still on edge from his sharp, cold gaze. 

Glaring at Chris, who seemed to act oblivious to the chaos he had caused on their journey to the Elysium Palace, Han couldn’t help but inject a hint of attitude into his tone.

   “Did you enjoy your trip, my prince?”

   “I couldn’t navigate my way. It’s much different traveling through this side of the Grand Forest. If not for Minho, I probably would’ve gotten lost.” He shook his head with a wry smile.

   “How did you hold up?” He asks, seeing the clear look of frustration on his loyal friend’s face.

   “Surprisingly?...Well.” Han recalled, making Chris look at him with a doubtful gaze.

   “The excuse of your absence seemed believable, and I was received well.” He explained.

   “That’s surprising. I would have thought they’d regard us with more caution.” He pondered, eyeing the door the rigid servant that had escorted him here had left through.

   “Oh, they do.” Han nodded. “But the princess that greeted me was anything but cautious, or she did a great job at hiding it.” 

Hearing the mention of a princess has Chris sitting up, and Han could almost read the curiosity in the older man’s eyes.

   “The second princess of Elysium, Princess Y/N, had greeted our envoy.” Han informed.

Chris raised a brow. “Second princess?”

   “Yes, I have confirmed it, she is indeed the second princess.”

The prince fell silent, his mind racing with questions about Elysium’s royal family dynamics. How had he not known about the existence of a second princess?

Han observed Chris closely once again, noting the furrowed brows and the intensity in his eyes. Clearly, the second princess’ existence sparked a new train of thought in Chris’ mind, mirroring the thoughts Han had earlier.

   “It seems the knowledge wasn’t widely shared beyond the Elysium court.” Han ventured cautiously. “She must have been quite sheltered.” 

   “Yet, Princess Y/N seemed... accommodating, despite our reputation.” Han continued.

Chris nodded slowly, a thoughtful expression settling over his features. 

   “Accommodating.” He repeated, as if testing the word. “That's unexpected.”

Then he turns to study Han’s expression, a certain regret washing over him for missing the arrival.

   “Did you sense anything... unusual about her?” His tone had softened.

The younger man paused to consider his response.

   “She seemed composed, yet there was a warmth about her. She greeted us with respect, but I have not confirmed weather she is your princess.”

Han was honest. He sensed Chris’ question carried deeper implications, but he could only confirm what he had seen and heard in the brief time since their arrival.

The crown prince mulled over Han’s observations, his mind clearly at work. 

   “I'll need to meet her myself.” He finally declared, a determined glint in his eye. “Tomorrow evening, at the royal dinner. Ensure I'm introduced properly.”

Princess Y/N. 

He finally had a name, yet now he was unsure if it belonged to his princess. ──────────────────────── Lady Katherine seethed with anger, her steps echoing her fury as she entered her residence. The luncheon, meticulously planned to showcase her elegance and grace, had been ruined by the unexpected presence of the Queen. But it wasn’t just that, which led to the mistress blowing out steam of anger. It was through the uninvited Queen that she learned of her daughter, standing in the blazing sun, greeting foreign envoys as if she were a common servant.

The heavy door to the sitting area swung open with a force that started both the Princess and her maid, who had just returned from welcoming the guests. The atmosphere was thick with tension. Before either of them could react, Lady Katherine’s palm met Y/N’s cheek with a sharp slap that reverberated through the silent room.

Y/N staggered back, her hand flying to her stinging face. A gasp escaped Anna’s lips while the princess stared at the air in shock. The initial hurt in her eyes immediately morphed into defiance, she slowly faced her mother’s piercing glare.

   “Do you know how embarrassed I felt!?” Lady Katherine’s voice pierced the air, her anger palpable.

   “To find out a princess who has not even made a public appearance, greeting foreign princes, foreign warriors?” Her words were sharp, accusatory.

Tears had already welled up in Y/N’s eyes, but she refused to back down, meeting her mother’s furious expression stubbornly.

   “You seem to forget your place. You are the Second Princess of Elysium.” Her mother continued, her voice trembling with anger. 

   “Your actions already have people whispering. How can you laugh in the presence of those beastly Nightshade warriors? What will people think?”

Lady Katherine’s concern for appearances was well-known. The mother who only cared about what others thought would never understand. How can Y/N explain to her reputation-obsessed mother that her gestures went beyond mere stubbornness. A princess personally greeting foreign envoys could foster goodwill and deepen alliances, making them feel more honored to be invited to the Kingdom of Elysium. Yet, explaining this to her mother seemed futile at that moment. So Y/N simply chose to stand silently under her mother’s intense scrutiny, her cheek tingling from the mother’s strike.

Damn. That was going to leave a bruise.

And indeed, the next day, despite Anna’s best efforts to conceal it with makeup, the bruise on Y/N’s cheek was unmistakable. She could see the frustration in the young maid’s gaze, perhaps from her futile attempts to cover the mark, or from the sight of her princess sitting here like this.

Anna dabbed gently at the bruise, her touch soothing yet laced with worry. The cloud of makeup powder hung in the air between them as she hesitated, contemplating another suggestion.

   “My lady, perhaps we can try—”

   “Let us skip this evening’s dinner.” Y/N interjected firmly, cutting off any further suggestions from Anna.

Though the swelling had subsided, the traces of Lady Katherine’s reprimand lingered, stark against Y/N’s skin. The princess understood all too well that attending the dinner with such visible marks would speak volumes about the unrest within their carefully curated public facade. It would reflect poorly on the king who preached peace and unity among the royal family.

As Y/N glanced at her reflection in the mirror, she felt a pang of frustration stir within her. 

   “But my lady! You’ve been preparing for this dinner for the past week, how can you not attend? Surely if try something—”  

   “Mother will come up with an excuse. She always does.” She remarked bitterly, her voice tinged with resignation. 

Not that her absence would make a difference.

But as Y/N made the decision to stay cooped up in her bedchamber, the Queen summoned her. Reluctantly, Y/N draped a soft fabric over the lower half of her face to conceal Lady Katherine’s mark as she made her way through the court. She cursed under her breath, frustration simmering within her.

Arriving at the Queen’s chambers, Y/N straightened her posture and gathered her composure. The fabric provided a flimsy shield against the curious glances of courtiers who whispered among themselves. They knew something was amiss, but etiquette demanded they not pry. Y/N could feel the hot gaze of the first princess looking at her with concern. Despite her sister’s silent plea for an explanation, the unwavering gaze of the Queen mother held her at bay.

   “What happened to you?” the Queen inquired, her tone curt yet tinged with a knowing edge that made Y/N uneasy.

   “I’ve caught a cold, your majesty. It is nothing dire.” The lie slipped off Y/N’s tongue effortlessly.

The Queen sighed with resignation. She motioned for Y/N to relax from her formal bowing stance. 

   “That is a shame. It doesn’t seem like you would be able to attend tonight's dinner then, I presume?”

Y/N hesitated briefly, gathering her thoughts before nodding.

   “Yes, I shall recuperate in my chambers tonight. But surely by the banquet, I will feel better.”

The Queen responded with a disinterested “hmm,” her attention shifting to Sienna, who stood anxiously nearby. 

   “Then Sienna shall oversee the final proceedings of tonight’s dinner.” She declared.

Sienna hesitated, clearly torn between her concern for Y/N and her duty to obey. 

   “Ah, but Mother…” She started, but the frosty look from the Queen silenced her protests.

   “Yes, Mother,” Sienna conceded reluctantly, her gaze flickering briefly towards Y/N with a mix of guilt and apprehension.

   “I will hand over the final arrangements to Princess Sienna.” Y/N’s voice was firm, despite the turmoil within. 

She knew that the royal dinner that was bound to end smoothly would be credited to Sienna, receiving accolades from the guests for her supposed organizational prowess. But Y/N accepted it gracefully, like she always did.

As the second princess was dismissed from the Queen’s presence, she felt a pang of bitterness. She could sense Sienna’s conflicted feelings, unable to decipher the emotions hidden beneath the carefully arranged fabric that shielded Y/N’s injured cheek, yet she only tore away her gaze. Heavily reminded that the second princess will always stay in the shadow of her sister.

Stepping outside the Queen’s palace with her guard by her side, Y/N began to walk back to the West Wing Palace. However, she stopped in her tracks when she noticed an unfamiliar figure lingering in the outdoor corridors. Her brow furrowed as she distinguished him immediately, dressed in the dark attire typical of the Nightshade delegation.

He seemed to sense her presence almost immediately, turning to meet her gaze directly above the cover of her veil. She stiffened momentarily, taken aback by the intensity of his stare.

   “Shall I remove him from here, your highness?” Her guard asked, moving closer with a protective stance.

Y/N raised a hand, signaling for him to stand back. “Stay here. He’s a foreign guest.” She commanded, making her way cautiously towards the warrior.

Chris watched the veiled figure approaching him, his expression unreadable. Her gaze softened as a feeling of familiarity washed over her. Yet Y/N also couldn’t help but notice his striking appearance up close, a little taken aback even. Why were these foreign guests so good looking? She briefly recalled the handsome Sylvancrest Prince. Her sudden intense studying gaze caused Chris to still, a little flustered even. But he quickly composes himself.

   “I was lost.” He stated simply, breaking the silence, his hands clasped behind him as he maintained his stance, conjuring up a lie even before she asks.

She arched an eyebrow, seeing through his flimsy excuse but chose not to call him out on it directly.

   “Are you with the Nightshade delegation?” She inquired instead, eyeing his attire critically.

   “Yes, my name is Christopher.” He replied, inclining his head respectfully.

Y/N’s gaze remained knowing as she played along with his introduction, well aware that he was likely the prince of Nightshade despite his attempt at withholding his title.

   “This is the Queen’s palace. If you were to be caught by her knights, it wouldn’t reflect well on your master. I suggest you return the way you came.” She advised, gesturing towards the direction he had probably snuck in from.

   “Ah, I shall. Thank you, Miss.” Chris nodded, his eyes following her pointed finger for a quick glance.

   “And if you were wish to explore the palace, I suggest you ask a servant of Ruby Hall, Prince Christopher.” She added, curtsying gracefully.

Chris was momentarily surprised by her sharp observation, his curiosity piqued. He watched as she turned and walked away, and he followed her instructions with a mixture of respect and intrigue. As he glanced back a few times at her retreating figure, he couldn’t help but wonder why her face was concealed.    “Do I even ask?” Han’s expression conveyed weariness.

Chris chuckled softly at Han’s exasperated expression.

   “I was just trying to peek around the royal court.” Chris admitted with a shrug, his tone light.

Han glanced around the serene garden of Ruby Hall, relieved to have finally located Chris after a morning spent searching. His expression was a that of concern, his voice firm yet tinged with a hint of pleading, as Chris sat leisurely enjoying afternoon tea. It wasn’t that his prince had always kept him on his toes. The mountains of the North had never allowed Chris to sneak around or relax, especially under Commander Seo’s watchful eyes. However, upon their return to Elysium, that carefree side of the warrior prince, long left behind, seemed to resurface effortlessly. It brought Han immense relief to witness Chris laugh and smile once more, like he had done when they were children. But Han couldn’t shake his caution. After all, they weren’t children anymore.

   “We have Minho for that. You are to stay under my protection.” Han asserted, his gaze unwavering.

   “Fine, fine. I won’t stray too far from you.” The prince conceded.

Han sighed softly, his shoulders relaxing slightly. He knew that despite Chris’ occasional curiosity, his loyalty to duty was unquestionable. But he was also worried this prince of his was running around trying to locate a certain princess.

   “What if the she does not remember you?” Han’s words carried a cautious concern, reflecting the uncertainty that gnawed at him.

Chris paused thoughtfully, his fingers reaching for a raspberry cookie among the snacks laid out before him. He smiled softly, taking a deliberate bite that brought a familiar taste.

   “We promised not to forget.” Chris replied, his voice gentle yet resolute.

Sometimes Han wondered, when he watched his prince closely, his thoughts drifting to their years in the biting cold of the North. He often wondered if the princess, who Chris held in his heart, ever reminisced about their past meetings with the same longing and reverence. Did she, too, find solace in memories during moments of hardship?

A deep breath escaped Han as he contemplated the uncertainties that lay ahead. 

   “Then tonight’s dinner will finally quell all your curiosity.” He stated with quiet assurance.

Chris nodded taking another bite of the cookie, the anticipation of the upcoming dinner palpable in the air between them. 

Finally. 

The warrior prince was usually a patient person. He had to be, especially when all he had done these past years was wait. Yet, he fidgeted in his formal attire, the beautifully crafted clothing making him stand out. He could feel Han’s watchful gaze on him, but his own attention was fixed on the servant who had arrived to escort them to the dinner hall, maintaining his stoic composure.

The guard kept his eyes peeled, shadowing behind his master as they were led through the grand halls, the intricate designs of the carpets under, a testament to the wealth and power of the Elysium crown. 

The room was as grand as one would expect, with high ceilings and a dazzling chandelier casting light over the assembled nobles of Elysium. Seats at the dinner tables were already occupied by important figures of Elysium court, all rising respectfully as the Nightshade Prince entered. It was a reception that slightly caught Prince Christopher off guard, though he concealed any surprise as he acknowledged their greetings. He was more accustomed to the rough and rowdy atmosphere of the training hall in the White Mountains, rather than such formalities. Nonetheless, he managed the situation with practiced ease, his attention caught by the whispers and cautious glances of the nobles, noblewomen and even their children as he was guided him to his seat, Han standing watchfully nearby.

Those whispers and glances only intensified with the arrival of the Sylvancrest Prince. Even Chris and his guard couldn’t help but stare starstruck at the man’s striking presence, his gentle smile standing out amidst the crowd. 

   “I am Prince Hwang Hyunjin, your highness, fourth prince of Sylvancrest.” Prince Hyunjin introduced himself as he took his place beside Chris, who nodded in acknowledgement.

Chris responded with a slight smile, extending his hand to shake Hyunjin’s offered hand. “And I am Christopher Bhang, Crown Prince of the Nightshade Kingdom.”

As if Hyunjin’s introduction triggered something, the nobles began to approach them, offering greetings and pleasantries before the arrival of the royal family. The princes exchanged a brief glance, silently acknowledging the sudden onslaught of honeyed words and feigned smiles from the Elysium aristocracy. A facade that didn’t escape their notice. Beneath the surface, both princes remained on edge, as did the nobles, particularly wary of the Warrior Prince.

The sudden announcement of the royal family’s arrival prompted everyone to return to their seats, the grand doors opening once more. In, swept the Elysium King, his queen on his arm, both shining in their exquisite attire. The king’s smile was wide, acknowledging the bows and curtsies from the assembled nobles. Chris observed them closely, at the Elysium king his father had always described as ‘sly-looking’, though their last meeting had been when they were young men. The queen, pretty and gentle in appearance, exuded a hidden shrewdness that didn’t escape the warrior prince’s keen gaze. Next came the announcement of the other members of the royal family. Following the king and queen were their crown prince, Prince Ian, and his fiancée, the daughter of a grand duke or some such title. Chris had only just managed to familiarize himself with their recent royal family news during the journey to Elysium. 

Then his gaze falters. His attention softened as his gaze fell upon the Princess. His eyes relaxed, taking in her graceful entrance.

Han narrows his brows, staring in both wonder and curiosity. Studying the princess closely. The two princesses were undoubtedly sisters, sharing striking similarities that he now concluded came from the King. The guard tried to get a glimpse behind the first princess, but the grand doors closed and the so-called second Princess he had encountered that morning was not present.

   “Ladies and gentlemen, let me unofficially introduce the first princess of Elysium, Princess Sienna. She will make her formal introduction at tomorrow’s banquet.” He announced proudly.

Sienna ever so gracefully, bows deeply with a curtsy she had perfected through the endless etiquette lessons. Her smile captivated the room, especially all the young men amongst the audience. Including Prince Christopher, who found himself momentarily entranced by the familiar yet unfamiliar face of Sienna. His hand instinctively reached for the crystal bird pendant around his neck, but instead, he felt the cool touch of the buttons on the high collar of his attire.

   “Princess Sienna had clearly put in tremendous effort for tonight’s dinner, despite her long journey back from Melgarde. We hope it meets your expectations.” The Queen’s acknowledgment drew a slight flinch from her, quickly masked by composed grace.

   “It wasn’t all my doing, the second princess had also aided very much.” Sienna boldly added, her smile unwavering, though she avoided meeting her mother’s disapproving glare.

   “Yes.” The king interjected with a chuckle. “My second daughter has unfortunately fallen ill and won’t be able to join us.”

He settled back into his seat, turning his attention to the foreign princes.

   “We hope tonight’s royal dinner leaves you with no complaints. We welcome you to our great kingdom.” He declared, raising his glass of wine in a toast.

   “Thank you for inviting us, your highness.” Hyunjin responded politely, raising his glass in return.

Chris inwardly sighed, his fingers tightening around his own glass.

   “We are honored you’ve prepared so much for our arrival. Including the Nightshade Kingdom to celebrate with you alludes to your generous reputation.” He exaggerated, though his words elicited a chuckle from the older king.

   “Of course. We are nothing but grateful the Crown Prince of Nightshade himself has graced us with his presence.” He toasts.

Chris nodded with a forced smile, bringing the alcohol to his lips. Sending the crown prince was both a gesture of goodwill and a calculated risk. Anything could happen to him on foreign soil. That’s why Sylvancrest had sent Prince Hyunjin, a fourth prince, as their envoy. But Chris was a warrior. His king was confident he could handle any threats that came his way. Looking at this king, he was reassured that there wasn’t much to worry about.

Dinner continued with the nobles attempting to win favor with the king through carefully chosen conversations. Hyunjin engaged them with details about Sylvancrest’s seaports, a topic that seemed to captivate the Elysium court. Or maybe they were enthralled by the beautiful man and his soothing voice.

Chris, however, found himself increasingly bored. He had thought he possessed enough patience for such formal events, expecting to engage in meaningful conversations rather than exchanging curt answers of a few words. Chris observed quietly, his attention drifting between the animated discussions at the table and the grand room. His gaze trailed once more to the center table, where Princess Sienna conversed quietly with the future princess-consort, her smile radiant. The warrior prince wondered why Sienna hadn’t spared him a glance, why she hadn’t recognized him. 

No, he knew why. 

Here, he wasn’t Chan.

There were many regrets he held from his younger days, and not properly revealing his identity to her was among them. Chris had been so concerned that his title would create tension, sparking her defenses due to the rivalry between their royal families. Looking back, he couldn’t help but see how foolish that fear had been. And when he decided he would finally tell her, he had been sent away. 

Princess Sienna didn’t know Crown Prince Christopher, and she wasn’t stealing glances at him, as he had been doing the entire evening.

As the dinner drew to a close and guests began to disperse, Chris felt a sense of disappointment settle over him. This was not the reunion he had hoped for. As if Han could read the thoughts in his mind, the guard nudged him, bringing him back to reality.

They returned to the Ruby Hall, finding solace in front of the fireplace that offered warmth against the chilly evening air.

   “Should we get Minho to find out more about the First Princess?” Han suggested, breaking the silence.

Chris shook his head, a small chuckle escaping his lips. “Minho doesn’t involve himself in such matters, remember?” He reminded Han, who sighed and settled back in his chair.

The Midnight Order, while effective for covert operations, had its limitations. Minho, loyal as he was, adhered strictly to the tasks that had to do with Nightshade. He wouldn’t delve into personal investigations unless they posed a direct threat to the crown prince. Especially not about a foreign princess.

   “What did you think of their king?” Han asked, shifting the topic.

   “He’s exactly as I expected.” Chris replied with a nod, recalling the evening’s events.

   “What are your thoughts on the Elysium prince?” Chris inquired instead, observing Han closely.

   “Prince Ian? He didn’t say much during dinner.” Han recalled, furrowing his brow in thought.

Chris nodded thoughtfully. Despite his own boredom throughout the evening, his eyes had been keenly observant. He couldn’t help but notice the numerous glasses of wine Prince Ian had consumed, laughing easily at the banter of young men his age. Chris suddenly found himself contemplating the future of Elysium.

   “Our assumptions of the second princess seemed to have been true.” Han broke the silence once more, drawing Chris’ attention back to their conversation.

Chris had almost forgotten about the second princess. The one everyone else seemed to have met except him.

   “I guess she really is as sheltered as we believed.” Chris concluded, his tone thoughtful.

   “You know, there’s a lot of things that you have done wrong.” Han sighed, catching Chris off guard.

Chris raised a brow, silently urging him to continue.

   “You’ve hidden so much from your princess, didn’t even ask for her name, and now you’re sitting here with such a pitiful look I’m not sure what to do.” He confessed bluntly.

Chris’ brow furrowed at his friend’s words. Unsure if he should laugh or sigh. Indeed, he was right. His younger self had made many mistakes.

   “I also want to punch myself for that.” Chris groaned, admitting his regret.

But still Christopher was determined. Tomorrow’s banquet, he would ensure he properly introduced himself. He wanted Sienna to recognize him, not just as the Crown Prince of Nightshade, but as Chan, the friend she had promised not to forget. ──────────────────────── The royal banquet hall shimmered under the glow of chandeliers, its smooth floors adorned with intricate patterns that seemed to weave in gold. Guests in their finest attire, passed through the vigilant guards with awe. Chris and his entourage followed immediately after the Sylancrest Prince, sharing a knowing glance as they entered. Han stood by his side, visibly uncomfortable without his sword and stiff in his formal uniform, which was even more exquisite than the one he had worn the previous day.

   “Nervous?” Chris smirked at Han, who shot him a glare in response.

   “I think I’m suffocating.” Han muttered, maintaining a respectful distance a few steps behind his master.

Han’s sentiment was something he shared. Both had spent the past decade in the mountains, disregarding courtly rules and etiquette. However, while Han’s sole duty was to protect the Prince, Chris bore the additional responsibility of embodying the polite and approachable demeanor expected of a crown prince, representing his nation, especially since Nightshade’s reputation in this part of the land wasn’t favorable.

Forced smiles persisted as Chris exchanged pleasantries with curious attendees who approached him. Familiar faces from the previous evening’s dinner lingered, and the Prince of Sylvancrest stood beside him, similarly engaged. The two foreign princes found a sense of camaraderie under the watchful gazes of the Elysium guests.

The trumpets rang out, their resounding sound calling for attention. Instantly, the bustling hall fell into a hushed reverence as all eyes turned towards the grand entrance. Chris, amidst the sea of bowing heads and kneeling figures, stood with a nervousness that coursed through him like an electric current.

Through the parted sea of nobles, the Elysium royal family emerged with regal grace.

The royal banquet hall of Elysium shimmered under the brilliance of chandeliers, its smooth floors adorned with intricate patterns of gold. As the Elysium king and queen stood before their people, delivering a grand speech welcoming foreign princes and guests and aristocrats from every corner of the kingdom. The Nightshade Prince, listened with a raised brow. His instincts told him there was more to this reception than mere diplomacy, and he would definitely find out what.

His thoughts were soon diverted as he scanned the assembly, searching for his princess amongst the few ladies that followed behind the crown prince of Elysium. When the King of Elysium announced the arrival of Princess Sienna, Chris froze, his breath catching in his throat. He felt Han’s intense gaze on him but couldn’t tear his eyes away.

She looked even more beautiful than she had at the royal dinner, adorned with delicate pearls and jewels that caught the reflections of the shimmering chandeliers. Then he introduced the second princess. The king’s fatherly words resonated through the hall, emphasizing the upcoming celebrations for both princesses.

As both Princess Sienna and Princess Y/N bowed to the assembled guests, Han muttered into Chris’s ear. 

   “Princess Y/N, second Princess.” His eyes fixed on Y/N.

Still dazed, Chris turned to Han, his fingers brushing against the crystal bird pendant around his neck. He glanced over at the young lady who resembled the first princess, clearly Princess Y/N. He narrowed his brows, taking in the familiar sight of her eyes scanning the room after she rose from her bow.

Yet before the warrior prince could question further, the Sylvancrest prince interjects with his own comments.

The festivities continued after the King’s announcement. The royal rulers took their seats, and Chris found himself disinterested in the formalities. His focus remained on finding the princess whose smile had nearly blinded him. Despite the dance and social interactions, he lost sight of her in the grandeur of the hall.

Just as he turned to speak to Han, Chris froze once more. There she was. Princess Sienna, standing tall and regal, commanding attention with her presence. She moved gracefully among the guests, her younger sister, Princess Y/N, trailing behind as they greeted them with a brief exchange of words.

And finally, she was here in front of him.

Approaching with warmth and grace, Princess Sienna introduced herself, her voice like honey. Chris felt a stirring of recognition deep within him. Could this really be her? His childhood friend, the one he had longed to reunite with for years? The one he loves.

   “Greetings, Your Highness. I am Sienna, First Princess of Elysium.” She formally introduced herself with a serene smile.

   “And I am Princess Y/N, the second princess.” Y/N followed, her gaze briefly lingering on the man who she had seen in the Queen’s court just a day prior. He hadn’t recognized her it seemed.

   “Good evening, Princesses. I am Christopher Chan Bahng, Crown Prince of Nightshade.” Chris returned his introduction with a determination, bowing politely, a gentle smile on his lips, the crystal bird pendant gleaming against his chest.

Y/N stilled at the mention of the name that was ingrained in her mind, her hands freezing at her sides as she stood from her greeting.

Sienna’s gaze fell upon the out-of-place pendant, and for a moment, surprise flickered across her features. 

   “That—it looks familiar.” She murmured, a smile forming, giving Y/N a quick glance before returning to look at the Warrior Prince.

Chris’ heart swelled with joy and relief from her words. Here she was, his childhood princess, standing before him with familiarity and warmth. It felt like everything was falling into place. His lips spread into a smile, wishing she would call him “Chan.”

But Sienna was not his princess. 

The realization struck the second princess, like a blow. Y/N had always been one to connect things quickly. She stood frozen, her wide eyes fixed on the necklace and the man who wore it proudly.

Prince Christopher Chan Bahng.

The Crown Prince of Nightshade, who gazed at Sienna with a warm look.

Her Chan.

And suddenly he looked even more familiar.

Her heart pounded with a mixture of emotions, that feeling from when she encountered Han the morning of their arrival, returning with even more intensity. Except this time it was confirmed almost right away.

But Chan hadn’t even spared her a glance. 

The pain in her chest was overwhelming. A dry feeling in her throat. The loud thrumming in her ears.

The boy she had imagined would recognize her in a heartbeat, the one she had longed to reunite with, hadn’t. A mix of disappointment and hurt swirled within her. She had created scenarios in her mind, dreams of a reunion like those from her favorite love stories, intense, intimate, filled with recognition and warmth. But reality was harsh and unforgiving.

He hadn’t recognized her at all.

Yet, she dared not approach him, dared not correct him. 

A thought suddenly weighing heavily on her.

How could she? 

She? 

A lower princess, the king’s mistress’ daughter. One he didn’t even look at, while he was the Crown Prince of his nation.

He was a goddamn Crown Prince.

Their differing ranks were painfully evident all of a sudden.

Her eyes trail down to linger on the delicate necklace adorning his neck. The one that had belonged to Sienna. It had aged, not so polished as she recalled from her memories. But still, the crystal bird glimmered under the chandelier’s light.

It mocked her with its beauty and radiance.

The second princess who grew up in the shadows of her royal older sister couldn’t do anything but bite back her tongue. The crystal bird that led her childhood friend to it’s owner, reminded her of her shameful act of stealing it and the incidents that followed.

The coming heartache could have been avoided with just one confession from her, but she stood in silence, the weight of everything that coursed through her mind hung heavily over her. Yet even her self-loathing seemed to be overshadowed by Sienna’s radiance.

Chan’s eyes did not look her way.

─────────────────────── to be continued.

Ask to be tagged! - @stayceebs97, @palindrome969, @tsunderelino, @solandiszale, @fixation-dump, @ellelabelle

[candyquokka]

Criminal Love

↳ Pairing: Hyunjin x Reader

❧ Genre : romance , smut, forced proximity, morally grey reader

❧ Words: +25k

❧ Warnings: violence, mention of knives, guns, smut

❧ Summary: Hyunjin was a good agent. At least, he thought he was. The moment he is ordered to work with a very unpredictable, dangerous you (who also happens to be his little crush), things change. At every step you test his patience, push his limits only to see how far he’s ready to go.

❧ A/N : Aaaaaand it's finally out! It took me longer than I expected to finish this piece. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did while writing it! Like and reblogs are appreciated, comments too ♥

❧ Taglist: @lostgirlinthewoodss , @rylea08 , @minimin1993 , @avokralaim , @cheekycountesschoi , @rockyhedgehog , @skzfelixlove , @hyundai432 , @hyunlvrs , @naoristerling

“Did you hear? She got suspended. Again.”

Hyunjin was not eavesdropping. Not really. Not completely. It wasn’t even his fault in the first place if people weren’t being discrete and he just happened to be having his coffee right here. It wasn’t also his fault that the simple mention of suspension and again meant only one thing: you.

And that did get his attention. Without even realizing it, Hyunjin leant a little closer while sipping his coffee, wanting to hear more about their complaints.

“Again?” The second woman sighed and shook her head in disapproval. “It’s the second time this month alone! I really don’t understand how they allow her to work here.”

To that Hyunjin actually had an answer. Or at least half of it. The bosses could disagree with your behavior, your rudeness, your methods all they wanted – you were the only one who didn’t hesitate to dirty your hands, to infiltrate the darkest places and succeed. The results were staggering. No other agents managed to accomplish as much as you did in only two years. They hated you and admired you at the same time. And those women were no different. They could complain about you all they wanted, but they were simply jealous.

Yes, you were an incredible agent. Yes, your methods were questionable and a little bit bloody for Hyunjin’s liking (he shivered at the memory of you throwing a knife at another agent, grazing his ear, because he had offended you). But you were also a dangerous, cold beauty that they envied.

Jisung plopped beside Hyunjin with his own coffee in one hand. He observed his friend for a moment before smirking. “Why the long face? It’s only nine in the morning.”

Hyunjin ignored his comment, his attention was still on the women, straining to hear more about you. Unfortunately for him, they were done complaining. Or maybe they stopped because of the two men’s presence.

He sighed. “They’re talking about Y/N.”

Jisung snickers. “Of course they are.” He took a sip of his coffee, smiling knowingly into the cup. “And you’ve been eavesdropping because?”

Hyunjin shrugged, pretending that it was nothing. As if Jisung wasn’t already aware of why he was so interested. He took a sip of his own coffee, only to wince and realize that while he had been so concentrated on the conversation, his coffee got cold. What a lovely day, it couldn’t get worse.

“Because I thrive on gossips.” Hyunjin tried to make it sound like it was not a big deal. He wasn’t lying, not completely at least. He did enjoy office gossips; sometimes because the gossips were so ridiculous, he couldn’t understand how people could believe their words. Sometimes, because he would catch info he could use later.

“Yeah. It has nothing to do with our sweet and lovely Y/N.” Jisung mocked.

Hyunjin sighed in defeat. There was no use pretending with Jisung, despite his looks and his nonchalant attitude, he was incredibly observant and Hyunjin’s little (fat) crush on you didn’t go unnoticed. “Fine. I couldn’t help myself.”

Jisung’s grin stretched and he leaned closer, ready to either tease him till he would cry or be a good friend and end his misery. “See, not so hard! And since I’m an amazing friend, I will even help you. I know why they’re talking about Y/N.”

Hyunjin cocked a brow, taken off guard. But it made sense. The two of you were friends, Hyunjin just never guessed you would talk about your cases with him.

“Our little Y/N was hunting a criminal for the past week. Can’t remember his name even if I helped her to track him. He took a hostage, threatened the man’s life. What a bad idea, but he couldn’t know that, could he? She shot the victim in the leg to shock the dude. Worked marvelously. She got him.”

Was it anyone else, Hyunjin would have been surprised. But he wasn’t. The only thing that still surprised him was your creative ways at getting things done. Apparently, nothing could stop you. Not even someone’s else life was on the line.

“How did she even explain herself?” Hyunjin wondered out loud.

“That’s a good question.” Jisung admitted and shrugged, “She has her ways, I guess. She doesn’t tell me everything.”

“Sure about that?”

Jisung gave him a lazy smile. “By the way, boss wants to see you. Right now.”

Hyunjin groaned and quickly got back on his feet. “And you couldn’t tell me sooner?”

“Nope.” Jisung laughed, “Was enjoying the moment, you know.”

***

Hyunjin was not excited to see the boss. Not because he didn’t do his work and risked to get scolded, but more like every time he went to his office he could be sure to leave with some bad news. And that, he wished to avoid. He was tired and frustrated with his case. He had been working on the same case for the past few weeks and unfortunately, even with Jisung’s help, he couldn’t track the hacker that had been attacking big companies. The man or the woman was a ghost, leaving little clues to his or hers identity and it was slowly driving him crazy. 

Before he could even knock at the door, he heard voices. Especially one voice. Yours. And by the sound of it, he could easily guess that you were not pleased. Not to say pissed. He hesitated, hand frozen mid-air. Should he knock? Should he wait? But then, Namjoon wanted to see him and if you were already inside, he wondered if whatever the news was, you were supposed to hear it too. Curious, really. And unheard of.

Hyunjin took a deep breath and then pushed the door, deciding that with all the yelling, his knock would go unnoticed. Barely one foot in the office and Hyunjin halted, flinching as a vase flew straight to the wall beside him, shattering in pieces.

Well, you were in a mood.

Hyunjin was highly aware of your temper, heard stories about it, witnessed a few times too. It amazed him how you didn’t try to hide it. Some agents were just like you, anger eating them from inside, but they would do their best to hide their feelings just to avoid the troubles.

You didn’t and he had to admit that he found it a little hot. Maybe there was something wrong with him too.

He had been working for Namjoon for a little over five years and it was definitely a first for him to see someone show so much anger before him. Or was it directed at him? Which would be even odder. 

He cleared his throat and before he could utter a single word, your eyes found his. He froze, forgetting how to breathe for a second. There was so much fire, so much rage in your eyes, it was unsettling. Hyunjin wasn’t a coward, in fact, because of his pretty face people often underestimated him, when really, he was a great manipulator when needed and could fight for his life if required. But facing your fiery character and the anger in your eyes made his skin crawl and wish for the floor to swallow him whole. 

What a lovely creature. 

One last angry glare from you and then you huffed, crossed your arms over your chest and took a seat, ignoring his existence. 

Namjoon shook his head and sighed. Apparently, Hyunjin wasn’t the only tired one, the man looked like a ghost himself with dark circles under his eyes. “Come in, Hyunjin. Take a seat.” And then he looked at you again, pinning you with his stare, a silent communication going on. 

Whatever Namjoon had to say, you were part of it, now he was sure about it. He didn’t know how he felt about it. 

Hyunjin sat in the empty chair beside you, having a hard time not to look at you. He didn’t have many opportunities to be in your presence or even talk to you. No, you weren’t a kind of person who appreciated getting involved with others. Quite the opposite. Less you saw them and happier you were. And yet, despite this coldness, you were Jisung’s friend and Hyunjin couldn’t stop but wonder how Jisung managed to convince you that he was worth a shot. He was the opposite of you; lively, always friendly, spending half of his time cracking jokes. And yet, it worked. Unfortunately, Hyunjin never managed to get close to you which left him with no choice but admire you from afar. 

“I’ll make it short.” Namjoon started, his eyes darting back and forth between the two of you, looking stern and at the same time, preparing for another storm to blow up his office. Namjoon was indeed very tired and wasn’t paid enough to deal with this shit. “I need both of you to work together on a case. And before you protest,” He pointed at you, his scowl deepening as he noticed you clenching your fists, ready to jump and protest, “It’s not negotiable.”

“You got to be kidding me!” You groaned, throwing your hands in the air. “You know I can’t work with him.” You pointed an accusing finger at Hyunjin as if he had personally offended you. Which he didn’t. Or at least, Hyunjin wasn’t aware.

“I’m not leaving you a choice, Y/N. Not this time.” Namjoon didn’t budge, his mind set. “Moreover, there’s no way you can succeed without his help.”

Hyunjin observed you in silence, his mind still trying to come to terms with the idea of working with you. He didn’t dislike the idea as much as you did, for obvious reasons. It was his chance to find out more about you, to solve a mystery he was so curious about. But it was obvious you didn’t share the sentiment; you were gritting your teeth, ready to snap.

“Is it a challenge?” You tried, hoping to avoid to work with Hyunjin.

Namjoon leaned on his elbows and looked straight into your eyes. “You can scream and kick all you want; I’m not changing my mind.” Then, he averted his gaze on Hyunjin. “I promise, she’ll come around.”

Hyunjin wasn’t so sure and you proved him right by mumbling a ‘like hell I will’. This was going to be an interesting experience.

“What’s the case?” Hyunjin asked, ignoring the thick tension in the room. He fought the urge to glance at you and instead gave his full attention to Namjoon.

“The two of you are going to fly to Hong Kong. I got you an invitation to a gallery opening party. You must attend it as a newly married.” Hyunjin blinked in confusion. When he was called into Namjoon’s office, he did not expect this turn of events.

“What do you know about Park Minjun?” Namjoon asked and eyed the two of you, his eyes lingering a little longer on you.

Hyunjin had a feeling he had heard the name before but couldn’t pinpoint from where. You, on the other hand, knew. You straightened up on your chair, all business. “He’s the CEO of PM Security. Worth billions if I remember correctly.”

Namjoon nodded. “We got a tip. Apparently he’s been selling weapons to dangerous people. Another deal is about to happen. I need you to find out what’s the deal about and find the names.” Namjoon finished, then with one final look at the two of you. “Any questions?”

“Yeah, “ You started and, without even looking at you, Hyunjin felt your murderous aura. “Can I punch you for this brilliant idea?”

Yeah. It’s gonna work out just fine.

***

You were still fuming at the idea of working with Hyunjin as the two of you stepped out of Namjoon’s office. Just because you couldn’t actually punch Namjoon as you desperately wished, you slammed the door behind you to make your point.

“Asshole.” You cursed under your breath, forgetting for a second that you were not alone in the hall and Hyunjin was still observing you. But for safety reason, he put some space between the two of you. He could tell you were craving violence and someone to blame for the outcome. He wasn’t particularly in the mood to get into a fight with his supposed partner for the next case.

Hyunjin watched you with crossed arms over his chest as you took a deep breath, clenching and unclenching your fists in hope to cool down. Impressive temper indeed. He wasn’t a violent person and wasn’t really attracted to violence but as he stared at you, from head to toe, he couldn’t deny that it suited you. You’re in deep shit, Hyunjin.

He thought about the mission, thought about pretending to be a couple and playing his part. Could he really play pretend? He did it a few times, of course. But with you? He wasn’t sure he would come out unscathed.

“We can make it work.” Hyunjin tried to convince you. Or maybe he was trying to convince himself with those words.

It didn’t convince you. You snapped your head towards him and assessed him. You knew who he was, not only because you had memorized every faces and names of people working here, but also because Jisung couldn’t shut up about him and about how amazing he was. He was a handsome man, that you could admit, as for being amazing, you weren���t convinced. The men working for Namjoon tended to be all the same; some with pretty faces and arrogant attitude. Not your cup of tea. And yet, even if it pained you to admit, Hyunjin looked different from them. Just by the way he was watching you, you could tell he wasn’t underestimating you just because you were a woman. No, he was also assessing you and wondering how it could work.

“It can’t be that bad.” He tried again, sounding a little bit more enthusiastic.

You finally moved from your spot and slowly approached him, watching him like a predator that you were. Hyunjin tensed. You grabbed him by his tie and pulled him closer to you. “You better watch out, Hwang or I might kill you in your sleep and make it look like an accident.”

Such a lovely creature, working with you surely would be fun.

***

Jisung was laughing so hard at the news, he fell from his chair. It didn’t stop him from laughing, quite the opposite. He held his stomach, unable to calm down. He had expected Namjoon to give Hyunjin shit for not having any break in his case. But it was so much better. Oh how he wished he could have witnessed the whole mess. Knowing you, Jisung had no problem imagining how delighted you were with the mission.

“Are you done?” Hyunjin groaned, palming his face.

It had been two hours since he found out about the mission. Two hours since your threat. Two hours since he couldn’t shake off the image of you pulling at his tie, threatening him so close to his lips. Yes, he wanted to find out more about you. Yes, he wanted to get close to you. But maybe he got more than he bargained for.

“Oh hell man, I’m having a blast.” Jisung cackled and wiped the tears from the corner of his eyes. “You and Y/N? Working together? Pretending to be married?” Just from saying it again, he laughed and Hyunjin couldn’t stop himself; he kicked his shin. “Ouch!”

“You deserved it.” Hyunjin responded unapologetic.

“Can you blame me? You two are so different. I don’t know how Namjoon came up with this idea.” He shook his head, chuckling to himself. “I know you’re going to try and make it work but Y/N…”

Hyunjin could only hope that your wish to succeed would be stronger than your aversion to working with him.

“She’s going to eat you alive.”

***

Hyunjin didn’t get even have a wink of sleep last night. Not this close to the departure for the mission. One week was what Namjoon gave the two of you to get your shit together and prepare.

Easy to say.

Hyunjin tried to reach out to you in hope to talk and prepare your story in case you had to share it with people, especially about your marriage. You ignored all his attempts. He had tried. He tried to talk to you, to get to you through Jisung, tried to corner you. And failed. You were slowly driving him nuts and even his optimism was slowly fading.

He was waiting for you at the airport, nervous. After ignoring him for a week, you finally texted him last night, giving the time and spot to meet at the airport. A message that frustrated him to no end.

He checked his watch and frowned. You were running late. Maybe the traffic or maybe you were toying with him. Probably the latter. But then, as he raised his head, he saw you. He spotted you among the parting crowd, walking confidently and looking too good to be real. You wore white jeans, a black tank top with a leather jacket. Your hairs were tied up in a messy bun with few strands framing your flawless face.

Hyunjin forgot how to breath as you drew nearer.

“Hello, Hwang.” You smiled wickedly, your smile promising torture.

“You’re late.” Hyunjin wanted to slap himself. He wasn’t planning to pick a fight with you, but somehow his brain refused to cooperate.

You arched a brow, amused. “Am I?” And took another step towards him. “Or were you just too eager to see me?”

Yes, you were definitely toying with him. He refused to play your game and instead he kept his face as neutral as possible. “You know I’m not happy about this mission either.” What a big liar he was.

“Sure about that?” You asked, unfazed with his attempt. “Because a little birdie told me you were delighted to find out we were paired for the mission.”

Hyunjin gawked at you, not believing his ears. “What? Who?”

Hyunjin knew way before you answered, who was behind those words but he needed to hear it.

“Your favorite hacker.”

Little shit. Han Jisung was a dead man. If he survives first.

You laughed at his pained face. Not a mocking laugh but a genuine one that made him blink and stare blankly at you. Hyunjin realized that he had never heard you laugh before and it was a nice melody to his ears. Playful, cheerful, warm.

“Come on, hubby.” You looped your arm through his, “Let’s do this.”

***

Surprisingly enough, the flight to Hong Kong was eventless.

Except for the part where you didn’t shut him out like he thought you would. No, after a whole week of trying to talk to you and plan, it was during the flight that you chose to talk. You took him completely off guard by admitting that he was right and you needed a story in case someone ask. The two of you established that you had been married for three months and had been together for two years. 

Hyunjin was bewildered how easy it was to talk to you when you weren’t threatening to kill him in his sleep. The moment you got your mind set on the mission, your feelings and opinions didn’t matter. The only thing that mattered was to succeed and if for that you had to deal with him, you would do your best.

A very nice surprise.

Namjoon had thought about every little details that even Hyunjin hadn’t thought about. For instance, not even for a second Hyunjin had imagined that the two of you would have to share a room. It made sense, in a way, but it still shocked him. He was not ready for it. 

Hyunjin glanced at you, palms sweaty. He thought you would start a riot and curse Namjoon and his whole family. You did none of that. In fact, you looked completely relaxed. You pushed your suitcase toward the middle of the room and then stopped to observe the place. The room was big, huge windows that led to a small private balcony. A king size bed covered with petals of red roses and a couch that looked rather uncomfortable.  

You scoffed at the flowers, finding this little detail ridiculous. And so did Hyunjin. “He didn’t need to go to this extent.” But you didn’t seem surprised too which made him wonder how many times Namjoon had arranged things for you. 

Hyunjin followed you with his own suitcase. If there was only one bed and one couch, he would choose the couch, even if it didn’t look comfortable. He didn’t think you would accept to share a bed and he wasn’t sure he could sleep beside you at all. Not that he was scared for his life but sleeping with his crush did make him nervous. 

“Dibs on the right side of the bed.” You interrupted his trail of thoughts and threw yourself on your side of bed. You propped yourself up on your elbows and watched Hyunjin with a smirk. 

Hyunjin gasped loudly and looked at you as if you had grown a second head. “Wait what?” 

You watched him from the bed, looking too smug for his liking. “What? Were you about to offer to sleep on the couch?” 

Hyunjin wondered if he was that predictable or if you were just that good at reading people. For a second, he considered lying to avoid embarrassment but one look at you and he knew it was pointless. He shrugged. “Yes.” 

“Don’t bother. I don’t care.” 

“Sure about that?” 

“Unless you’re a hugger, no, I don’t care.”

***

While you were taking a long, deserved shower, Hyunjin went through the few information Namjoon gave you about Park Minjun. Nothing really impressive; his family, about his wife, his kids, about his involvement with many powerful men in the society. Nothing really indicated that he had any involvement with the underground world. But then again, Hyunjin guessed that it wouldn’t be something obvious and they had to dig deeper.

Hyunjin threw his head back against the headboard and closed his eyes for a moment. The party, the CEO, pretend to be a married, happy man, you. It kept replaying in his mind. There were few hours left before the party and he couldn’t stop wondering how it would work out. How should they get close to the man and gather the needed proofs?

Before Hyunjin could delve more on the matter, you came out of the shower with just a towel wrapped around your body, water still dripping from your hair. Hyunjin opened his eyes only to gulp nervously at the sight of you. No make-up, amazing, toned body – he was both in hell and heaven. His pants grew tighter.

Instead of hiding from his intense gaze, you stopped by the bed, staring back. “Need a moment, Hwang?”

Yes. He cleared his throat and tried not to look at your legs. He knew, he shouldn’t be staring so much, but you looked just so flawless, he couldn’t tear his eyes from you.

“Still staring, darling.” You teased

Hyunjin squirmed under your amused stare. “I’m-“ sorry he wanted to say. But you didn’t want to hear his apology. No. Instead, you winked at him and then turned your back, letting him admire the view. You knew you looked good. You dropped your towel on the floor.

Hyunjin shrieked and quickly covered his eyes with his hands. You were toying with him, enjoying your moment judging by your sweet laugh.

“Cute.” He heard you whisper.

For a second, he peaked through his fingers, hoping you put some clothes on. But no. Still perfectly naked and with a glorious ass.

Shit.

“You’re enjoying this.” Hyunjin complained through gritted teeth.

You hummed, not disagreeing. You drew closer to the bed, enjoying how tensed Hyunjin got. How he desperately was trying to hide his eyes with his hands. Sadly for him, his body betrayed him. You smiled sweetly at him. “Just as much as you’re enjoying the view.” And you pointed at his pants, cackling at his pained face.

I need a shower. And a cold one.

***

Unsurprisingly, Hyunjin was ready for the party way before you. Instead of waiting for you in the room, he chose to wait in the main hall of the hotel, taking a moment to compose himself and repeat the made-up story in his head. Everything to distract him from the thought of you, naked with water dripping from your hair. He tried to shake off the image, but his mind refused to cooperate and replayed the moment over and over again like a broken record. This was torture and there was nothing he could do to escape.

“There you are, darling.” Your sweet voice echoed from behind him.

Hyunjin, very slowly, turned to face you. He sucked in his breath, taking in the sight of you. Obviously and objectively speaking, he knew you were a gorgeous woman, but tonight you had outdone yourself. The red silky dress hugged all your curves perfectly, the deep split on the left side exposed your thigh. Everything was flawless; from your dress to your hair, to your makeup – he was bewitched.

Hyunjin stared and stared, his eyes shining brightly. “You look dashing.”

You flipped your hair to make a point. “I know.”

He laughed and shook his head in fondness. Of course, you would say something like that. But then, your lips stretched into a big, genuine smile. “You look good too, hubby.” You stepped closer to him and grabbed his hand. “Let’s do it.”

***

The venue was huge and smelled of money. Impressive paintings, tables spread all around the place with food and drinks. Waiter and waitress walking around with drinks, trying not to disturb the important people. Everything was shining and glittering. A place, Hyunjin didn’t feel like he belonged to. Celebrities, politicians, the whole society had gathered at the same place. He wasn’t used to it, and he felt out of place.

You noticed it too. You nudged him playfully with your hips, grabbed his hand and squeeze it lightly. “Relax. Pretend you have loads of money and you will be just fine.”

Hyunjin glanced at you. It amazed him how natural you were. Nothing surprised you, nothing impressed you. No, you looked at the crowd, unimpressed, assessing them in silence. He bet, slowly a plan was forming in your mind. You grabbed two glasses of champagne from the closest waiter, thanking him with a smile before giving one glass to Hyunjin.

“Look,” you pointed at a person talking vividly with a man. “Park Minjun is already here. The man he’s talking to? He’s in charge of research for the army. Heard the army is developing a new weapon.”

Impressive. Hyunjin eyed the man; he looked to him like any other middle aged man in this room. Rich, wearing an expensive suit, arrogant, trying to make any more alliances.

“How do you know all that?” Hyunjin asked, admiring your knowledge.

You shrugged, your eyes still on the CEO. “I’ve been spying on them for so long. It helps.”

“Do you think Park Minjun is interested in what the army is developing?”

“Who knows.”

Hyunjin was tempted to ask more, to see what else you were hiding from him. He did none of that as he noticed some men staring at you. He recognized the look in their eyes: lust. He couldn’t blame them for lusting after his fake wife, you looked gorgeous and your dress was attracting attention. His body, as if having a mind of its own, moved; he put a hand on your hip, marking his territory. They could stare all they wanted, you were his for at least the upcoming days.

You didn’t shy away from his touch, quite the opposite. You leaned into his touch, feeling completely comfortable with his presence and his touch.

“Well, what’s a lovely surprise.” A man around Hyunjin’s age, or maybe a little older now that he looked at him, interrupted the two of you. He smiled widely, his eyes on you and then slowly his gaze slid to Hyunjin.

Hyunjin had to admit, the man before him was probably the only decent one in the place. Or at least, the vibe around him made Hyunjin believe that. He was terribly handsome and looked just as rich as any other person in this gallery and yet, where others looked arrogant and judgy, he looked genuinely friendly and apparently delighted to see you.

And yet, your whole body tensed at his presence. You leaned even closer to Hyunjin as if he could protect you from the man or help you to disappear. It made Hyunjin only curious. Where was the confident woman? The one ready to snap some necks and kick some asses? Odd.  

“Hello Chris.” You finally found your voice and straightened your back, a sly smile on your face.

There she is.

If Chris noticed your uneasiness, he made no comment. Instead, he grabbed your hand and pulled it to his lips, kissing your knuckles, eyes on you. “It has been a while.”

“I’m a busy woman.” You chuckled.

“Don’t I know that.”

Hyunjin knew he wasn’t supposed to feel possessive over you but he couldn’t ignore the little, angry voice inside his head, telling him to yank you from this Chris’s hold. Fake husband or not, he wanted to keep you for himself while he could.

“This is Hyunjin, my husband.” You finished.

And just like that he relaxed.  He eyed you discretely, feeling proud, even if it was fake.

Chris arched a brow at the presentation. “Oh? Since when?” He eyed Hyunjin, assessing him. Despite his intense staring, Hyunjin kept his composure and stared back with as much intensity and still wondering who the hell this man was.

“I’m offended I wasn’t invited to the wedding. Or did my invitation got lost?”

You laughed heartily at his pained expression. “Don’t be sad. It was a small wedding.”

Chris put his hand over his heart feigning pain; you only slapped his arm playfully, leaving Hyunjin’s warmth for a moment.

“Fine, fine.” Chris conceded. “Knowing you, I expected a big fancy venue with at least hundred people.”

You only glanced at Hyunjin, your eyes softening at the sight of his face. Hyunjin almost dropped his glass, completely taken off guard with how sincere, how convincing you looked. He could read love on your face when he knew there was none.  

“I had everything I needed.” You said softly.

Chris gasped. “Who are you and what did you do to my snarky, little Y/N?”

You took a sip of your champagne and looked at him. “Don’t worry, she’s still here.” You leaned closer to him, your smile turning from gentle to wicked. “Ready to bite your head off for last time.”

Chris raised his hands in defeat and took a step back for good measure. Whoever he was to you, he knew about your character and tendencies. Hyunjin watched your interaction with even more curiosity.

“I apologized at least three times already. You can’t hold a grudge for so long, can you?” Chris complained.

You eyed him with a knowing look on your face, a silent message passing between you and him. “Fine, I forgive you. For good this time.”

“Thank you, love.” He joked, “Call me. I think we have a lot to talk about.”

Chris left the two of you and yet you kept your eyes on his back as he began talking with a group of people.

“Who was that?” Hyunjin finally asked.

“A friend.” You simply said without elaborating.

Hyunjin wanted to know more but from the corner of his eyes he saw the CEO moving. “He’s moving. Let’s go?”

***

The two of you followed Park Minjun and three other men as discretely as you could manage. If the CEO seemed completely oblivious of his surrounding, the two men seemed more anxious; they kept glancing behind them, almost as if they were expecting someone to follow them or maybe even feared that they would get ambushed. Hyunjin supposed, in a way, they were right to be so wary since the two of you were indeed spying on them.

The noise from the main hall of the gallery was getting scarce until Hyunjin heard nothing except for their light steps.

“I think Namjoon was right. Minjun is involved with some questionable people.” You whispered as you watched the men get inside a room, closing the door behind them and locking it for good measure. “I recognize two of men with him. The third must be his bodyguard.”

Hyunjin looked at you with raised brows, surprised once more how it seemed you knew everything and everybody. He wondered again; what kind of missions Namjoon entrusted you with. “Who are they?”

Without looking at him, you neared the door. “They belong to the crows.”

Hyunjin’s whole body froze at the name. He had heard about them. The name had popped in many cases, but they never could find anything to dismantle the gang and arrest the leaders. It was frustrating how they always seemed to be few steps ahead of them.

“What are we doing now?” Hyunjin asked.

You looked at him, a wicked smile plastered on your face. “We eavesdrop of course!” You didn’t hesitate; body pressed against the closed door you strained your ears to hear their conversation.

Hyunjin followed your lead. He stood close to you, his arm brushing yours. A good agent would keep his mind clear and concentrate on the mission. Hyunjin was not a good agent. He couldn’t help but notice how smooth your skin was. Your sweet scent. And the smile that never left your lips. Get a grip, Hyunjin!

“I expected your boss to show up.” Minjun’s rough voice could be heard from behind the door. He sounded displeased and annoyed.

“I’m his right hand and tonight I represent the crows.” The other man didn’t sound fazed with Minjun’s annoyance and yet Hyunjin could detect a hint of threat in his voice. “I’m sure it’s acceptable to you. Or maybe you should find another willing party. After all, we’re not the one in need, are we?” Now he was taunting the man.

You glanced at Hyunjin, exchanging a knowing look. Just few words but enough to prove that they didn’t come here for nothing. Few words to incriminate the man.

Minjun grumbled, displeased with the man’s attitude. “Fine. Where is it?”

Whatever the ‘it’ was, you couldn’t hear the rest of it. Steps echoed in the hall, alerting the two of you that you were no longer safe and had little time to no time at all to hide. Hyunjin’s heart leapt in his throat as he tried to find a solution, a way out. But you. You didn’t panic, you barely looked at him. Instead, you straightened your back and slid your hand under your dress and took a knife out.

“What the hell.” Hyunjin muttered to himself, eyes bulging at the sight of the knife. “We’re not fighting.”

You scoffed and stepped before him, ignoring his remark. Hyunjin wasn’t a fighter, but you were and right now you were itching to fight the intruder.

At the sound of steps growing louder, closer; his body moved on its own accord. He pushed you against the closest wall, trapping you with his body. He cupped the side of your face, his thumb rubbing a spot on your cheek.

Your sweet scent hit him like a truck. All he wanted in the first place was just to pretend, to make it look like the two of you were making out in the hall, to make the intruder feel out of place. But your fucking addicting scent drove him absolutely crazy. His eyes kept darting back and forth between your eyes, another kind of fire glowing in them, and your plump, red lips that were slightly parted in surprise. God, how much he wanted to kiss you. To smear your perfect lipstick.

Pretend. Mission. Fake.  He repeated those words in his head, trying to persuade himself that this was more than enough.

It wasn’t.

“Do it, hubby.” You encouraged him after seeing him struggle to keep his control.

And Hyunjin did. His mouth crashed against yours. The kiss was bruising, needy, he had absolutely no control over his body, over his mouth. He wanted to taste every inch of you, to memorize how good you felt against him, how nice your lips felt against his.

His grip on your face tightened as you parted your pretty lips, inviting him in. You wrapped your arms tightly around his neck, pushing his face even closer to you.

Hyunjin’s free hand slid slowly from your chest, to your stomach, to your left, exposed, thigh. He grabbed your leg with strength and wrap it around him, giving him more access to your body, to feel more of you. To let you feel just how affected he was. How hard he was with just one kiss. You moaned into the kiss as his fingers dug into your skin.

So. Damn. Addicting. Hyunjin forgot all about their problem, all about the steps that grew only louder. He heard nothing. Saw nothing. There was only you and your gentle moans, urging him to ravish you right on the spot.

“Hey!” A loud, croaky voice interrupted them. “What the hell are you doing here? You’re not allowed in there!”

Hyunjin’s deep growl made your grip on him only tighten. You didn’t care about the intruder, but you cared about those stupidly addictive lips.

“What the-“ The man halted not far from you.

Hyunjin, unwillingly, slowly dropped your leg and parted from you. He wiped the corner of his lips and winked playfully at you before facing the man. “Sorry. I wanted a moment with my wife. She’s just so beautiful, I can’t have enough. Can you blame me?”

The man contemplated the idea of telling Hyunjin once more that you weren’t supposed to be there but one look at you and your disheveled self and swollen lips – he hesitated.

He ruffled his hair in frustration. “Just leave.”

***

“What do you think is his business with the crows?” Hyunjin asked as you stepped inside your room.

“No clue. They’re dangerous and powerful. It can’t be good.” You commented.

Barely inside and you were already undressing, with still no consideration for Hyunjin. He froze right on the spot as he watched you unzip your dress and let it pool at your feet, leaving you in nothing but your high heels and panties. He gulped, unable to avert his eyes even if a little voice was screaming at him not to look. He couldn’t. Not when you looked absolutely breath taking with your smooth skin, legs to die for and your long hair falling over your exposed breasts.

Another time, Hyunjin would have managed to keep his head cool and look away. Now? Now he knew how your lips tasted and how your skin felt under his touch. He couldn’t think straight.

“You can’t keep doing that.” Hyunjin managed to complain, his trousers grew tighter.

“Doing what?” You batted your eyelashes, trying to look innocent but your proud smile betrayed your intentions.

“That!” He pointed at your body. “I’m a man and I’m trying to be respectful.”

“I see that. You’re staring. Respectfully.” You laughed and slowly approached him, your smile turning into a smirk, knowing you were playing with fire and testing his patience.

Hyunjin should have known from the beginning that you were a menace. Jisung was right, you would eat him alive and he would say thank you.

“Must be hard watching and not being able to touch.” You cooed at him and poked his chest.

“You’re a terrible human being.” He complained without meaning his words.

“Am I?”

Hyunjin closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Bad idea. Your sweet scent hit his nose, making him slowly lose his self-control. He couldn’t think about anything else, only you and your body too close to his. All he needed to do was take the last step towards you, grab your neck and kiss you.

Think about the mission, Hyunjin. You can’t do that. But did he listen to the little voice? Hell no.

“Play with me, hubby.” You whispered, pushing his last limit.

Hyunjin snapped.

Or more like his self-control snapped. He grabbed the back of your neck and claimed your mouth. He devoured your mouth, showing you no mercy. He bit on your lips and pulled your hair, angling your head to deepen the kiss.

“You’re driving me nuts.” He groaned against your lips. “And I do not appreciate that.” He gave your hair a harsher tug, exposing the tender flesh of your neck. A perfect canvas for him. His lips slid from your mouth to your jaw, to your neck, leaving pretty marks on his way, claiming you just the way he wanted.

“I’m glad.” You moaned as your hands found their way to his head, pushing him closer to you, wanting to feel more of him. “It won’t be fun otherwise.”

Hyunjin bit on your collarbone in response. He wanted to make you pay for testing his patience, for making him yield so easily. He wanted to hear you plead for more, to hear your scream his name and ask for more. It was his mission for the night and he refused to stop. He scooped you in his arms, taking you off guard – you yelped in surprise. He carried you to the bed and dropped you on the mattress.

The sight before him was his personal hell. Your pretty lips swollen, your hair spread around you, your nipples hard and begging for attention. A goddess waiting for someone to worship her and he was more than willing. But slowly. Despite his own needs and wish to jump on you, he took his time to memorize your body; every little scar, and you had many of them, every mole.

“Take a picture, it lasts longer.” You teased, resting on your elbows as you watched him, biting your lips.

Hyunjin chuckled at your attempt at provoking him. He unbuttoned his shirt, button by button, watching as your eyes followed his every move, watching as you licked your lips at the sight of his bare skin.

“Might do it later.” He admitted. After all, he wouldn’t mind to immortalize the moment.

Hyunjin threw his shirt somewhere on the floor before his hands found their way to your ankles. Gently, he stroked your ankles that were probably tired after a long night wearing heels. Without a warning, he pulled you to the edge of the bed, closer to him, a wicked smile on his face.

Slowly and without breaking the eye-contact, he dropped to his knees. He grabbed your panties and tugged down, exposing your pretty and already wet pussy. Whenever you had planned to get him on his knees or not, you were ready for him and he had to admit he enjoyed the sight before him.

“Tell me what you want, Y/N.” Hyunjin asked. His soft lips leaving a trail of kisses across your thigh, setting your skin on fire.

“Don’t be a tease.” You ordered and nudged him with your knee but Hyunjin was having none of that.

“Come on. Tell me. Is it my tongue you want?” And to make his point he licked your skin, from your knee to your thigh, getting dangerously close to the place you really wanted him. “Or is it my fingers?” Still teasing, he barely brushed his fingers against your pussy, making you hiss in frustration.

“I’m going to fucking kill you.” You threatened him, refusing to give him the power over you.

Hyunjin only laughed against your skin and bit your thigh playfully, your threat doing nothing except turning him on.

“Come on, Y/N. it’s not that hard.”

Your ego demanded that you kept your mouth shut, but your body was on fire and on edge and growing impatient. You needed him to touch you.

Your body won the war. “Please, Hyunjin. I really, really need you.” You begged as prettily as you could.

And how could he refuse when asked so nicely? Hyunjin delved in, eagerly, letting the taste of you consume him. There was no stopping, not when you sweet taste invaded all his senses and turned him into an addict.

“Fuck.” You cried out and arched your back.

Hyunjin devoured you, licking, sucking, knowing exactly what you needed. It was as if he already knew how your body worked, what made you curl your toes, what brought out your sweet cries.

One particular strong suck had you reach out for his head, tugging at his locks. You weren’t sure whether you wanted to bring him closer to your pussy or put some space – it didn’t stop him. Hyunjin’s gaze met yours, eyes shining with mischief.

He kept his mouth on you and slid two fingers inside you, stretching you. Your every little cries made him suck only harder, pump his fingers faster until you were nothing but a mess, writhing and begging to come.

And you came hard in a silent scream, body trembling.

If you thought, Hyunjin would give you a minute to recover, you were wrong. He flipped you on your stomach, his hands slid from your shoulders, to your back, to your ass. Such a nice and beautiful ass. Hyunjin couldn’t stop himself from giving it a strong slap.

He hurried to unzip his pants, the urge to sink inside you getting unbearable. He nudged your pussy with his cock and you pushed back, whimpering, needing to feel him inside. Hyunjin, despite his own needs, still had some control left. Seeing you so wet, so desperate and lost to your own pleasure because of him pleased him.

“Hwang, I swear to god-“ You started but all words died on your tongue the moment Hyunjin buried himself deep inside you with one strong push. “Fuck!” You cried out.

The pain, the stretch, followed by pure bliss made you grab the sheets, holding for your dear life. You expected Hyunjin to take his sweet time, to make his thrusts slow and controlled.

You were wrong.

Maybe it was because of your pleas, maybe because of how nice and perfect your walls felt around him. Or maybe the little control left had finally snapped. He set a brutal rhythm. His grip on your hips strong, almost painful and that would leave, without a single doubt, marks. And you didn’t care.

“So. Damn. Perfect.” Hyunjin managed to say in between strong, deep thrusts.

Hyunjin leaned over you, slowing his thrusts for a moment, only to fist your hair and yank your head back. His warm breath caressed your neck. “This is payback for all the teasing, Y/N.” His voice sounded rough and ominous.

It should have been a warning and you would have given a damn any other time. But Hyunjin was good. Felt too good. Your mind was blank. You could barely remember your own name.

As Hyunjin forced you to arch against him, his fucking increased, reaching deeper, making you see stars. Mouth opened, tears in the corner of your eyes, there was no stopping. With one particularly strong push, he tipped you over the edge. Your orgasm tore through you, violent, powerful, toe-curling. For a second you couldn’t see, couldn’t hear. And Hyunjin kept going, seeking his own release.

Fingers digging into your skin, Hyunjin came with a loud groan, spilling himself inside you.

With his release came a realization. I’m fucked.

***

Hyunjin woke up with a feeling that something was off. He looked for his phone on the bedside table, only to see that it was three in the morning. He yawned and rolled on the other side, wanting to get closer to you and to your warmth. Only to find your side of the bed empty and cold. He straightened up on the bed, staring blankly at the empty spot. Slowly, he touched it, confirming that his mind hadn’t imagined it being cold. No, you had left the bed and apparently the room a long time ago.

Hyunjin didn’t know how he felt about it. Should he worry? Did you need space after what happened between the two of you? Or worse, did you regret it? Hyunjin refused to imagine the worst scenario, but he struggled. He considered, for a short moment, to get out of bed and start looking for you. What if something bad happened?

He heard the bip from the door and quickly lay down on the bed. He squinted, forcing his eyes to adapt to the darkness. 

You walked inside the room on your tiptoes, trying not to make any noise, trying not to wake Hyunjin up. Too late for that, but he did his best pretending to be asleep. Hyunjin hoped you couldn’t see how he was peeking at you or how fast his breathing got.

You paid no attention to him as you got closer to the bed. You untied your hair and ruffled them in frustration. Whatever you were doing at this hour of the night, you didn’t look too happy about it. Slowly you took off your leather jacket and threw it on the chair and then, and it made Hyunjin fight a gasp, you pulled out your gun.

Where the hell were you? What were you doing? He wished he could just ask you these questions, but he wasn’t sure you would take it well. Not yet at least.

Hyunjin tried to calm his heart, to steady his breathing; you got closer to the bed and watched his sleeping form.

“Such a pretty boy.” You hummed, face relaxing at his sight. You gently brushed some strands of hair from his face and Hyunjin fought a shiver.

***

He woke up a second time but much later. He expected to see you sleeping beside him, after all, weren’t you supposed to be tired after going out in the middle of the night? Yet, he found once more your side of the bed empty. He groaned and quickly crawled out of bed. He had questions and for that he needed to find you.

Turns out, finding you wasn’t as hard as he expected. Maybe for a moment, he had forgotten that you were also human and needed to eat. Hyunjin found you at the restaurant, dressed in a pretty white dress that gave you an almost innocent look which unsettled him. But not only that; you were talking vividly, laughing and smiling with Park Minjun.

Hyunjin paused, staring blankly at you and the man. It amazed him how easily you talked with the man, how genuinely interested you looked. If he didn’t know about the mission, he would have believed you were long lost friends. It impressed him how easily you adapted to different situations, different people, letting them see and hear what they needed, what they wanted.

When you spotted Hyunjin, your whole face lit up. Hyunjin gulped, not liking how his heart reacted, not liking how your smile cheered his soul. He couldn’t stop his mind from replaying the images of your kisses, of your touches, of your smooth skin against his, of your lovely voice. He didn’t regret his choice, but he was also aware that he was in deep shit.

Hyunjin took a deep breath and started walking toward your table, confident. A small smile crept across his face as your own widened.

“Oh, babe!” You called for him, pretending so well to be completely smitten with your husband. You welcomed him with a sweet smile and a kiss on his cheek (he swore his heart missed a beat). “Sorry, I was too hungry and you looked so sweet. I didn’t want to wake you up.”

Voice sweet like honey, Hyunjin found himself at the loss of words. There was no way you left him without a word just because he looked sweet, but you were so damn convincing. He shook his head before chuckling. Two could play this game. He took a strand of your hair, curled it around his finger before bringing it to his lips. You sucked in a breath, your eyes locked on him.

“It’s fine.” Hyunjin leaned and pressed his lips against yours. As much as he wanted the moment to last, he couldn’t ignore any longer the man’s presence. “Hello, sir.”

The CEO eyed him from head to toe, nodded as if he liked what he saw. If only he knew. “You must be Hyunjin.”

Hyunjin pulled the chair and sat beside you. “The one and only.” He smiled at the man while his hand slipped to your thigh and rested there comfortably, loving the warmth of your skin under the palm of his hand.

Park Minjun smiled as he brought his cup to his mouth. “You have a fabulous wife. So passionate.”

Hyunjin looked at you, eyes softening. “I know. I’m a lucky man.”

Slowly, he rubbed circles on your thigh and you had to fight back a shiver. You could have stopped him, quite easily, but his touch was too addictive.

Minjun cleared his throat. “Y/N, it was lovely meeting you. But I believe I should leave the two of you alone. Enjoy your stay.”

The moment he was out of sight, you dropped your act. A long and tired sigh escaped your lips and you sank further into your seat. And yet, you still didn’t try to pry his hand off your thigh.

“Learnt anything?” Hyunjin asked, resting his head in the palm of his free hand.

“Nothing important. I thought charming him would serve me. Maybe not now, but later.”

Hyunjin hummed. You were right, it could be useful. “He looked charmed.”

You chuckled and poked his side playfully. “Why? Are you jealous, Hwang?”

Hyunjin could have stopped the little game, could have dropped his own act – he didn’t. He leaned closer, looking at you with a smirk. “Why should I be? I was the one making you scream my name. Not this old man.”

You gasped and feigned outrage. “My, my. Scandalous.”

“I know.”

“Now, that being said,” Your smile turned wicked. “I put a tracker on him.”

***

Jisung took his sweet time to answer the phone. It almost comforted Hyunjin to know that even with you, he acted this way. Except for the fact that you weren’t as patient as him. You groaned and threw your arms in the air, growing annoyed with every attempt at reaching for your friend.

“Hello my lovely, favorite couple ever!” Jisung’s cheerfulness brought a tiny smile to Hyunjin’s face, until he remembered that he wanted and needed to kick his ass. “How’s your honeymoon?”

“A lot of fucking. Something you can’t relate to because you’re forever bitchless.” You didn’t hesitate to humble him.

Hyunjin tried to stifle his laugh, only for you to glance at him with a frown, silently warning him.

Jisung gasped through the phone, offended. “Rude.” And for good measure, added, “Bitch.”

“Tell me something I don’t know.”

“Well,” Jisung began, “I know for sure that there is no way you fucked Hyunjin.” Jisung sounded so confident and yet none of you tried to correct him.

Hyunjin glanced at you but you ignored him, staring at your phone instead and looking tired. Finally, the consequences of your late night activities were showing. You needed to rest but something told him that a comment from him would earn him an even deeper frown.

At the silence, Jisung squealed. “Right?”

“I put a tracker on Minjun. I need you to tell me what he’s doing.” You said instead, refusing to satisfy his curiosity.

Hyunjin heard Jisung tapping on his computer, guessing he was already on it.

“I’m not done with you.” He warned the two of you. “He’s coming back home.”

Only then, you finally looked at Hyunjin, nodding. “Then so do we.”

***

Namjoon was in a bad mood. Hyunjin guessed it the moment he stepped inside his office. He kept tugging at his hair and muttering under his nose. Whatever was bothering him, meant probably no good to him too.

Hyunjin had been back for only few days which left him little time to check on his other cases, make a report about Park Minjun, meet with Jisung to know about the man’s whereabouts.

And you. You simply vanished. He should have known it would happen. He should have guessed that whatever happened between the two of you during your mission would end the moment you stepped out of the plane. It still left a bitter taste.

“I read you report.” Namjoon finally said.

“Did Y/N make her own report too?” Hyunjin wondered.

Namjoon quirked a brow at him. “She did.” He sighed. “The crows are bad news. I hoped you would be able to gather more information.”

“Y/N made contact with Park Minjun.. Maybe if we meet him again, she could gather more.”

Speaking of the devil, you barged into the office as if you owned the place. Namjoon barely reacted at your rudeness, obviously too used to your behavior. You dropped on the chair beside Hyunjin, refusing to acknowledge his presence which pissed him off more than he was willing to admit to himself.

“Weapons.” You announced, “Your tip was right. Minjun does sell weapons to dangerous people and now he’s going to sell them to the crows which sucks. They’re already powerful enough.”

Hyunjin almost jumped out of his seat and grabbed you to question you. He held back. Barely. “How did you find out?”

Instead of looking at him, you checked your nails, looking disinterested if not bored. “I don’t think you want to know.”

Hyunjin took a deep breath, counting till ten to calm himself down. If there was one thing, he disliked about you it was how easily you switched from being nice to the bitchy-old-self. It made him wonder if the side you showed him was real.

“What did you do?” Namjoon asked instead, sensing the tension in the room.

You sighed and slid your gaze to him. “Let’s just say that some men are eager to talk in promise of a blowjob.”

Hyunjin winced, unable to stop himself.

Namjoon nodded, unfazed with your explanation. “We need tangible proof. I’m counting on the two of you.”

Great. Just great.

***

Despite Namjoon’s words, Hyunjin doubted you would agree to partner with him. It was one thing when it was expected of you to pretend and be seen, but looking for information was different. You obviously had your ways and Hyunjin would be a nuisance.

Before you could leave him, Hyunjin grabbed your wrist and forced you to stop and look at him. There was so many things he wished to say but one look at you and only one question remained in his brain.

“You didn’t really give him a blowjob in exchange for information, did you?” He asked, his voice rough.

You scoffed at his question and pulled away from his grasp. “Why? Jealous?”

“Y/N.”

You pushed him away from you by poking his chest angrily. “I have my ways to get the job done, Hwang. Just because we fucked, doesn’t mean I owe you shit.”

Of course, you would go back to being the cold, unpredictable and distant self. He wanted to yell at you, to shake you and remind you that you didn’t always have to work alone, that you could rely on him.

“Namjoon needs proof.” You added, “I’m going to give him that.”

“And I’m going to help you.” Hyunjin insisted.

“No fucking way.

You had been staring at your computer’s screen for the past twenty minutes as if the solution to your problems would magically pop up on the screen. Obviously, it didn’t which turned your mood even sourer.

The deal with the crows and Park Minjun bothered you. Despite knowing that the man was selling weapons, you had to find a way to get close and get a real proof. But how? You couldn’t really show at his doorstep and ask him about the details. And getting closer to the crows would be too troublesome. With a long and tired sigh, you threw your head back and closed your eyes to think. Sadly, your brain didn’t want to think about work and possible solutions. No, it chose to think about a very cute, yet annoying man.

“Fuck it.” You groaned and tried to erase his image from your mind. You didn’t want to think about him. You didn’t want to remember the night you spent together. You didn’t want to remember how easily your body craved his touches. And you certainly didn’t want to admit how much you still wanted more.

Your doorbell rang and brought you back to reality. You glanced at the door, tempted to ignore whoever dared to disturb you at your place. Not many knew where you lived, it was better this way for your safety.

It rang a second time followed by a loud knock.

“Open the damn door, Y/N!” Jisung’s loud voice reached your ear.

“Of-fucking-course.” The temptation to ignore him was strong but you also knew that Jisung was a stubborn one; he would alert the whole neighborhood if it meant you would open the damn door.

Unwillingly, you forced yourself out of the couch to open the door. “What the fuck do you want?!”

Jisung lifted his bag and wiggled it playfully before you as if it would change your mind about his presence. “Let’s get drunk.”

Tempting, you had to admit it. You stared at the bag before sliding your gaze to him. Jisung was smiling so widely, knowingly, it annoyed you. He didn’t come here just to get drunk; he wanted information and the best way was through alcohol.

“Fine.” You stepped out of his way. “Come in.”

Jisung didn’t need to be told twice. He hurried inside before you could change your mind. He eyed the room, gasping at the mess. Folders were spread all around your table along with your clothes. Despite being back for few days now, instead of properly unpacking, you left your clothes all around the living room.

“Are you going to tell me?” Jisung asked and glanced at you over his shoulder, “Or should I make you talk?”

You eyed him, incredulous. Jisung tried to sound intimidating as if he could actually make you talk but with his boyish looks it just didn’t work. You drew nearer, a dangerous glint in your eyes. You were the predator in the room and you didn’t mind reminding him. You stopped, barely any space left between your bodies.

“And how are you going to make me talk, Ji?” You flicked his nose playfully.

Jisung gulped, not so confident anymore. You laughed and pulled back to give him space. You pulled out a bottle of bear from his bag and walked to the couch. “What exactly do you want to know?”

You plopped on the couch and relaxed.

“How’s work with Hyunjin?” He asked as he grabbed his own bottle and sat on the chair, watching you.

His question didn’t surprise you but it still annoyed you. “He’s a pain in my ass.”

Jisung wiggled his brows playfully. “I’m sure you’re the perfect partner too.”

You already regretted letting him in. You didn’t want to talk about Hyunjin with him. You didn’t want to talk about him at all in fact. But one look at Jisung and you knew he wouldn’t leave until he got his answers. God help me.

“You know I prefer working alone. It’s easier. I don’t want his life to depend on me.” You explained.

Jisung hummed, knowing how your brain worked. “But sometimes it’s nice to know someone has your back. Hyunjin is loyal and will do anything to help you.”

You knew. Your last interaction showed just how much he was willing to help even if you were a cold bitch to him. You wanted to keep him away from you, from the danger that you loved to surround yourself with. He didn’t need this drama in his life. Hyunjin was a nice guy. Even before working with him, you had heard stories about him and you had witnessed on many occasions how wiling he was to help people. Even those who didn’t deserve his help.

“You know I’ll put him in danger.” You sighed in defeat.

Jisung pointed at you with his bottle. “Pretty sure it’s not your call to make.”

***

You didn’t know how you felt about visiting Hyunjin’s office out of the blue. On one hand you knew the reasonable thing to do would be to apologize for your behavior and have a truce with him. But on the other hand, you weren’t particularly fond of the idea of working with him again. You feared that more time you spent with him and more likely you would put him in danger. And maybe grow fond of him too. It was dangerous for your plans and so out of your character. You didn’t have time for men or the patience. You could deal with one night stands; you had your needs to fulfill after all. But more? No. Not your thing. 

But Hyunjin was testing your boundaries, your willpower without even knowing it, therefore it made him dangerous. 

You stared at his half-opened door, hesitating. All you had to do was to walk in, offer him a coffee and apologize. And then ask for his help. Not so hard, was it? It was. You took a deep breath, composed your face and walked inside his office confidently. 

“Hello, Hwang.” You hummed, sounding as friendly as you could manage.

If you had thought it would go easy, you were terribly wrong. Hyunjin barely acknowledged your presence, the only sign that told you he had perfectly heard you, was the way his body tensed at the sound of your voice and how he stopped taping on his computer. Yeah, easy peasy. 

His reaction didn’t deter you. You got to his desk and put the cup of coffee you got him beside his computer, pretending that everything was alright.  

And yet still no reaction. 

You observed him in silence for a moment, taking your time to memorize every part of his face. You smiled when he crunched his nose, his resolution to ignore you slowly crumbling. The corner of your lips quirked up. You sat on the edge of his desk and gently grabbed his chin, tilting his head. “I didn’t give him a blowjob. But I beat the shit out of him when I got the information.” 

Here was the truth of what really happened. Of course, you were ready to do a lot to succeed but you still had your own limits. And you had other effective means to make someone talk. You let go of his chin and tried not to smile at his reaction. 

Hyunjin tried to keep his face straight, to hide his emotions but you saw a glimpse of surprise on his face anyway. You noticed how his body relaxed instantly at your confession. Slowly, he outstretched his arm and grabbed your peace offering. You watched him, eyes never leaving him as he brought the cup of coffee to his damn tempting lips and took a sip. If from outside you were smiling at the little win, inside you were slapping yourself for admiring him a little too much. 

“Thank you for the coffee.” Hyunjin held the cup with one hand and leaned back against his chair. “Why are you here, Y/N?”

‘Because I was an ass to you and I’m sorry. And I need your help.’ You wanted to say. Instead, you eyed him, captivated with his lips and some creams in the corner of his lips. 

“According to Namjoon and also you, we are partners. Can’t I visit my partner?” You tried to play coy, when really, all you had to do was be sincere with him. But it went against your nature and your damn ego. 

Hyunjin wasn’t impressed, judging by the way he quirked a brow and didn’t comment. 

Yeah. It wasn’t so easy after all. You were too hopeful. Who would have guessed that the sweet and gentle Hyunjin could actually hold a (totally justified) grudge. You underestimated him and that was your mistake. 

You sighed in defeat. “Fine. I need your help.” 

Hyunjin whistled, impressed with how long it took you to admit the reason behind your visit. “And here I thought you didn’t need a partner.” 

You chewed on your lips, so tempted to make a snarky comment but you couldn’t. You did need his help. “You won’t make it easy, will you?” 

Hyunjin shrugged as if it was nothing and took another sip, waiting for your explanation, not agreeing right away. You had to admit that you were impressed how easily he managed to keep a straight face, not giving in right away. You knew better than to underestimate an opponent but somehow you did. 

“Fine.” You raised your hands in defeat. “Do you remember Chris? There’s a party and I know Minjun will also attend it. The two of them know that I’m married, it would be weird if I show up without my handsome husband.” 

You waited for him to show any sign, but Hyunjin only stared at you, making you feel uneasy for the first time. He wouldn’t refuse, would he? Not that you couldn’t make it work without him. You were pretty sure you could convince anyone. But deep inside, you wanted him to be by your side. Even if it was a very dangerous game. But then, he stood up and took a step towards you. He put his hands on the desk, on every side of you, trapping you between the desk and him. 

“And how badly do you need my presence, wifey?” He asked, face a little too close to your liking. You could see every little mark, his pretty mole and those damn lips. You could barely remember his question, your attention on his lips only. Someone talked about a mission? A plan? Who cared when you could just tilt your face and claim those lips for yourself.

Seeing how unresponsive you were and with your eyes locked on his lips, Hyunjin couldn’t stop himself from leaning even closer. His lips brushed the shell of your ear; your body reacted on its own, shivering in both excitement and need. “Are you even listening, wifey?”

“I am.” A big fat liar, yes.

He clicked his tongue at your blatant lie and pulled completely away, freeing your body and also your damn brain from his spell. You blinked in confusion and had to fight back the urge to pull him back.

“I’ll help you.��

***

It had been ages since the last time you attended one of Chris’s parties. You avoided those kind of parties if you could. You hated the people that attended it, always the same one: arrogant, rich, who still managed to complain about every little thing when they had everything they needed. You loathed them and hated their conversation. But at least with Chris it was different. Maybe it was because of him and how genuine he was about what he did or maybe he just always managed to ground you.

Tonight was no exception. The venue was huge, classy and smelled of money. Fortunately for you, this time around you didn’t need Chris’s presence to help you to go through the night. You had someone better and definitely more distracting than your friend.

Hyunjin looked insanely good in his red suit and with his hair pushed back. A model. If he ever got tired of his current job, you had no doubt that he could revert to modeling and he would succeed. Apparently, you weren’t the only one who noticed how good he looked tonight; many women had their eyes on him. Too bad, he wasn’t there for them. To mark your claim, you looped your arms with his and gave him a sweet smile. Take that bitches, he’s mine. Very adult of you.

“I know what you’re doing.” Hyunjin whispered and brushed his lips against your forehead.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” You feigned innocence and took a sip of your drink, nevertheless a smug smile spread on your lips.

Hyunjin chuckled and shook his head, fond with your attempt at hiding your intentions. “I don’t care about those women. But do you know what bothers me?” His fingers slid slowly from your shoulder to your arm to your hand – you shivered in response and looked at him expectantly. “Those men eye-fucking you.”

Oh dear, where was the sweet Hyunjin? He looked anything but gentle right now. In fact, the murder in his eyes reminded you a lot of you. Maybe, he wasn’t that different from you. You wrapped your arms around his neck, making sure not to spill your drink over him, you pressed your body against him. “Maybe fuck me in the middle of the room and they’ll get the hint.”

Despite the display of affection that clearly attracted more attention on the two of you, Hyunjin played the game perfectly. He put his hands on your hips, his grip strong and delicious. “Is it a challenge?”

This time, you were the one to shake your head, amused with the outcome. Here you thought, you could make him blush and change the subject. But no, Hyunjin still managed to surprise you. “When did you get so bold, Hwang?”

“I believe you’re rubbing on me.”

“Namjoon is going to have a heart attack if you start behaving like me.”

Hyunjin could actually imagine Namjoon’s reaction and shivered. “I’m sure it would please you.”

You didn’t comment but your silence spoke louder. So did your smirk.

Reluctantly, Hyunjin let go of you. “He’s here.” Hyunjin commented as he finally spotted Minjun. And as much as you wanted to enjoy your time with your fake husband, you had a job to do. “He’s with his wife.” 

You groaned at the mention of the wife. “I can deal with him but her-“ While investigating about Minjun you found plenty of interesting and disturbing information on his wife. From outside she looked like the typical rich wife. Inside? She was an ugly, manipulative bitch. She had no problem with using her power to bully the weak, to use her influence to get what she wanted. Whoever she wanted. The kind of person you just wished you could shoot and never look at again. Sadly, if you wanted to find out more about the CEO you also needed to face her. 

“I can’t promise I won’t snap.” You finished. 

“Well, my lovely wife,” Hyunjin took your hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. “I’m more than willing to hold you back.” 

Park Minjun spotted the two of you before you could even reach them. His whole face lit up like a Christmas tree, genuinely delighted seeing you again. Maybe not Hyunjin, but you for sure. 

“What a lovely surprise!” He took you completely off guard by reaching for you and giving you a hug. You didn’t peg him for a hugger, but apparently he was. “Such a delight! You look lovely, Y/N.” And then he shook Hyunjin’s hand, surprisingly with enthusiasm. 

“Thank you M. Park.” You gave him your prettiest smile, trying to look as genuine as possible which with Hyunjin’s presence influencing you, wasn’t that hard. At least, until your gaze found the old hag’s face. The urge to slap her was strong; she was ogling Hyunjin as if he was a piece of meat and not a human being. 

“Darling, this is Y/N and Hyunjin.” He introduced you. 

Lazily her gaze slid to you, looking at you as if you were nothing but dirt under her feet. Such a lovely piece of shit, you thought. 

“He’s way too pretty to be your husband.” She commented with a huff of disdain. 

You are going to die. Slowly and painfully.

“He’s way too pretty to be tied to a woman like her.” She completely disregarded you, her attention fully back on Hyunjin.

“Come on darling.” Minjun tried, sensing that her comment brought a tension that wasn’t there a moment ago. “Don’t be rude. Y/N is a lovely and charming woman.” 

“For a whore maybe.” 

Mission, mission, mission. You repeated the word in your head, trying to calm the fire spreading through your veins. Trying to keep your temper in check and not give in to your urge to slice her open with your knife and see if she bled the same color as you. 

Fuck the mission. Discretely, you pushed back the sleeve of your left arm, ready to grab your knife. Before you could get it, Chris appeared right beside you, grabbing your hand and bringing it to his lips. He kissed your knuckles as a greeting, his smile charming but his eyes were burning with fire and a threat. A fire that would usually appease you and remind you your place. Not tonight. You were too gone.

“And she is family to me.” Chris announced as he let go of your hand and turned to face the couple. Despite now the polite smile on his face, the threat was obvious. “Please refrain from insulting her or I’ll take it personally.” 

Minjun’s face paled at the threat. It would have amused you to see him squirm if it wasn’t for your wish to fight. He cleared his throat and hurried to take his wife’s hand. “We’re going to grab another drink, let’s talk later.” 

The moment they left, Hyunjin let out a long sigh and looked at you with a knowing look. Someone wanted to scold you but you didn’t give two shits.

“Piece of shit.” The two of you said at the same time.

Hyunjin surprised you with his words and reaction, but oddly, it soothed your nerves and the fire burning inside your veins. Yeah, he was right, you were rubbing on him. 

Chris palmed his face. He barely avoided a massacre right in the middle of the party; just thinking about what could have happened tired him. 

“As much as I hate the woman, you can’t hurt her.” Chris’s hard gaze fell on you and you would have winced at it if not for Hyunjin’s comforting presence. 

“She’s a bitch!” You protested.

“And you have dozens of witnesses.” He gestured at the people surrounding you. “Don’t get sloppy.”

Fine. Chris was right, but you still felt the need to get rid the world of another ugly human-being. Hyunjin sensed that; he wrapped an arm around your waist and pulled you against him. 

“It’s not like she was going to kill her.” Hyunjin told him, confident. 

Oh Hyunjin, if only you knew.

You wished he hadn’t said that. Not only because he was wrong, but also because it would alert Chris. 

“Sure about that? Y/N was ready to pull out her knife and end her right on the spot.” He looked at your covered arm, knowing a small knife was hiding under it. “She craves violence but I’m sure,” his gaze slid to Hyunjin, “you already knew that.” 

Your palms were sweaty. Chris made you squirm under his mocking gaze. He knew this whole couple thing was fake, he felt it from the first time he had seen Hyunjin and Hyunjin’s faith in you only proved it. 

“Have fun.” Chris said with one good look at the two of you. “But don’t cause trouble.” 

So tempting to tell him to fuck off but you resisted only for the sake of pretense. 

“You weren’t really planning to hurt her?” Hyunjin asked.

“She insulted you. This old damn hag-“

“Simp.”

“Take that back, Hwang!” 

****

It was only much later that you managed to have a second chance with Minjun, without his wife scowling at you. You didn’t even have much to do to attract his attention; the moment you found yourself alone with your drink, he didn’t hesitate to approach you. Obviously, Hyunjin’s presence never bothered him, but Chris? He clearly didn’t want to attract his attention a second time.

“I’m so sorry for my wife’s behavior.” He apologized, standing close to you.

You smiled sweetly at him, batting your eyelashes at him. “It’s fine. No harm done.” But what you really wanted to say was that his wife would not live another day if she ever made another comment about Hyunjin or even dared to look his way.

He smiled, grateful for your gentleness.

Another man, in black suit, joined the two of you. He nodded his head at Minjun and stood closely to the two of you. You remembered him. The same man that went with Minjun to meet the crows. You listened to the man, looking invested in whatever he was saying while your mind was going through different ways you could get information out of him. Instead, you spotted something else on the bodyguard as he moved: a gun.

“Nice gun.” You commented, taking the two men off guard. Of course, they judged you for your looks and underestimated you. As if a woman who looked like a doll could know anything about guns. You stared at the gun for a moment before averting your eyes. “I don’t recognize the model.”

Minjun whistled, impressed. “You are full of surprises, Y/N.”

That you were. You smiled into your drink, trying not to look too smug. “My uncle is an avid collector.” You glanced once more at the gun. “He taught me how to shoot.”

Minjun made a sign with his hand and the bodyguard took few steps towards you before pulling his gun and handing it to you. You glanced at the man, making sure he didn’t mind you touching it; he nodded his head and smiled.

“Oh. I expected it to be heavier.” You commented as you admired the gun. You moved it around, weighing it.

“It’s a new design. I wanted to make life easier for my men.” Minjun admitted, proudly.

You handed the gun back to the bodyguard, your gaze on the older man. “Guess you’re full of surprises too, M. Park.”

“It’s a hobby of mine.” He confessed.

“That reminds me of my uncle.”

“I bet I’d get along with your uncle.”

He wouldn’t.

***

Of course the crows would want the best guns on the market and if Park Minjun was the one making them, it was no surprise they agreed to work with him. But still, you needed more to be able to stop them. Maybe talking with Hyunjin would clear your mind and help you to find a solution to your problem. But before you could do any of that, Chris grabbed your arm and pulled you to the balcony where nobody could hear you.

Chris did not look amused when he met your eyes. In fact, you were pretty sure he was upset and was trying really bad to keep his own temper in check.

“What’s wrong Chris?”

“The fuck you’re doing, Y/N?” He scowled.

It wouldn’t be very wise of you to play pretend with him; Chris could read people easily, even you which annoyed you half of the time. Tonight was no exception. He could tell you were up to something and probably something bad. He wasn’t wrong.

“Nothing.” You raised your arms in defense. “Yet.”

Chris took a deep breath to calm himself. “What’s your business with Park Minjun?”

Nothing went unnoticed, how sad. Unfortunately, you couldn’t share your mission with him, no matter how close the two of you were. “None. We met not long ago while I was enjoying a nice weekend with Hyunjin.”

Chris scoffed at the mention of your fake husband. “Who clearly knows shit about you.”

In a blink of an eye you stood before him, your knife no longer hidden under your sleeve and pressed against his throat. “And you better keep it that way.”

Chris didn’t even blink, he stared at you, unimpressed. Wouldn’t be the first time you threatened him. Nor the last. “You and your love for knives is terrifying.”

“Don’t see why.” You shrugged and pulled away. It would do you no good to fight him and you weren’t that confident either. Behind his calmness, Chris was a sleeping storm; a storm you would rather avoid.

“Did you know Minjun sells weapons?” You asked instead.

Chris raised his brow at the change of subject. “Yes. He’s been a little paranoid recently. Some people want him dead, I heard. Beomseok offered him a deal: he will protect him but in exchange he will decide to who he sells the weapons.”

What a shitty deal, you thought. From outside, it looked nice; Minjun kept his business and his life, but really, he lost everything. “Basically, the crows are taking control over his business in exchange for his life.”

“Yes, nothing good will come out of this deal.” Chris admitted as he kept his eyes on you. You could tell there was more he wanted to say but chose to hold back.

“What?”

“You’re asking questions but you already know the answers.” He noted, expecting you to spill all your secrets.

Your only reaction came in the form of a lazy, knowing smile.

***

Hyunjin was going to be pissed. Rightfully so. And you would probably need to find another peace offering quite soon. You knew leaving him behind wasn’t the nicest thing to do, especially not since you were the one who requested his presence at the party. But you couldn’t involve him in your plans. Not only he wouldn’t approve of your ideas but you bet he would try to stop you. Therefore, you left the party without looking back.

Just in case, you had left your car in the parking lot with clothes and weapons. You hurried to change, ditching your dress for a more comfortable outfit: black pants, grey t-shirt, a jacket and a cap to hide your identity if needed. You hid your favorite gun under your t-shirt, reveling in the feeling of it against your skin. You hid another knife in your boots, tucking it safely.

Once ready, you slumped in your seat, you waited and watched people coming in and out of the venue. Your plan wasn’t the best one and you weren’t fully sure it would lead you anywhere but you were tired of waiting and trying to find other ways to get proofs.

You didn’t need to wait long for Minjun to leave the party along with his wife and the bodyguard. Perfect. You waited for the car to start, gave them a moment to leave the parking lot and then you followed.

Obviously, you couldn’t invite yourself at his house and search the place, too dangerous. But the bodyguard? He was there the night the deal happened which meant he had valuable information and stalking him would be a piece of cake. And it was exactly what you did.

The bodyguard dropped the Parks at their house, stayed barely five minutes inside before leaving again. You hoped he would drive to his place – it would be easier to slip inside and get to him. But no, you supposed like many men he needed to unwind after a long day of work and the best place for many happened to be a bar.

You followed him inside and observed him from a corner, watching as he talked to some other men. You weren’t a very patient person, half of the time, but when it came to work and your preys, you didn’t mind waiting as long as it helped you to get what you needed.

And you were rewarded. He left through the backdoor to smoke. And it was your chance. The place was perfect; barely any light and nobody outside. And no security cameras. He shouldn’t have used the backdoor.

Satisfied, you moved closer to him without making any noise and pointed your gun at his head. “Let’s play a game.”

He froze at the sound of your voice and the feel of the gun pressed against his head. He was sloppy and it was his mistake. He should have known that working for Park Minjun would bring him trouble; he should have watched his back. Too bad for him, but good for you.

You got around to face him. The moment his eyes fell on you; you knew he recognized you. His arm twitched, wanting probably to reach for his own gun but you shook your gun and pressed it a little harder against his head.

“Now come on, play nice.”

“What the fuck do you want?” He spat angrily, fuming that a woman managed to ambush him so easily. You bet, he was even angrier with himself for underestimating you, for being deceived with your sweet looks.

“Told you, let’s play a game. I ask you questions and if you play nice you stay alive. Easy right?” You would be lying if you said you weren’t enjoying the little game. You enjoyed making the strong men squirm.

He scoffed. “You won’t kill me.” And here he was underestimating you again.

You sighed, disappointed. Fine, if he wanted to play the tough guy. With a blink of an eye, you grabbed his arm and kicked his right knee making him fall on his knees. “Ah, men on their knees, always such a nice sight.” You smiled sweetly at him. “Now. I heard that your boss is working with the crows. Where can I find the contract?”

He looked at you. Really looked at you. You were a different person and he had finally realized it. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

You hovered over him and shook your head. “I really want to play nice but you’re making things unnecessary complicated.”

He spat at your feet in response.

“Rude. Sure you don’t want to answer?” You tried to give him another chance. “No?”

Because he was so concentrated on your gun, he didn’t notice you pulling out your knife, you stuck it right into his left thigh. He screamed and grabbed his thigh, cursing loudly.

“Now, let’s try again. Where can I find the contract?” You asked again, your voice much colder.

“I don’t know!” He wailed.

You applauded his attempt at lying to your face. He should have understood by now that you were ready to get your hands dirty to get your answers, but he still tried to resist.

Your phone vibrated in your pocket which made you pause. You took it out of your pocket to see Hyunjin’s name on the screen. As tempting as it was to ignore his call, you couldn’t, not after leaving him without a word at the party.

You sighed and looked down at the man. “Be a good boy and keep your mouth shut.” And then you answered your phone. “Hi darling!”

“Where the fuck are you, Y/N?” Hyunjin almost growled on the phone.

Yeah, he was pissed. “Somewhere. Busy.”

“Y/N.”

“I’m sorry. I should have texted you but I got carried away.” Which wasn’t far from the truth. The moment the plan formed in your head, you couldn’t really think about anything else. “And I didn’t warn you because I knew you wouldn’t agree.”

The man at your feet opened his mouth, wanting probably to scream and hope to get some help. You were faster; you put the gun into his mouth. He whimpered, eyes wide.

“Y/N.” Hyunjin’s voice sounded darker.

“I’m fine. Stop worrying.”

There was a silence on the other end and then he exhaled loudly. “And is the other person with you fine?”

Busted. You glared angrily at the man. “For at least another ten minutes, yes.”

You imagined Hyunjin ruffling his hair in frustration, torn between the wish to tell you to stop and something else.

“Be careful.” Was what he chose to say.

“Aw darling, you almost sound like you really care for me.” You grinned, delighted with his words.

Hyunjin hung up first. Satisfied, you turned your attention back on the bleeding man. “So? How about you end your misery? I was there when he signed the contract.”

“You’re not going to spare my life.” He managed to say. It wasn’t a question; he had realized by now that you weren’t a nice person.

“No. But if you play along I’ll make it painless.” You admitted.

He considered it for a moment. There was only the two of you, the gun still pointed at him and his thigh was bleeding. He could try to overpower you but the way you looked at him made him pause. There was no trace of the gentle woman he had seen before. No, your smile was cruel and eyes cold. The eyes of a killer.

He was fucked.

“They kept the contract. Boss was furious that they didn’t even get him a copy.”

You crouched down to his level, watching him closely. You needed to know if he wasn’t trying to lie to you. He wasn’t. He looked tired and paler. “They never play nice.”

He nodded, agreeing. “There’s something else. When he signed the contract, they showed him the list of clients he could sell to.”

“Let me guess,” You hummed, “Bunch of assholes he didn’t want to sell to?”

“Yes. They kept it too.”

“I see.” You straightened up and pointed your gun at his head once more. “Thank you for your help.” And shot.

***

You came straight home after dealing with the bodyguard, desperately needing a good shower to get rid of some blood on your hands and get rid of your bloodied t-shirt. But more importantly, you needed to plan now that you knew who had the contract. All your plans for the rest of the night vanished the moment you spotted Hyunjin, sitting on the floor against your door.

What the hell. You were going to kill Han Jisung for not minding his god-damn-business. There was no way Hyunjin found your address without his help. You didn’t want him to know where you lived. You didn’t want him to get even closer to you; it was too risky for both you and him.

You stared at him, forgetting how to breath. You didn’t expect to see him so soon and definitely not after you had killed someone. You didn’t want him to witness you in this state but there was no way you could hide now. So you stared, thinking about what you could do, what you would say. What you could say.

Hyunjin looked tired and worried. His hair a mess, you bet he kept ruffling his hair in frustration, wondering what exactly you were doing. Or maybe he was messing his hair because he knew exactly what you were up to and it scared him. But even like this, he looked insanely good. You’re insane, Y/N.

You exhaled and chuckled. “I’m surprise my neighbor didn’t call the cops.”

Easily, Hyunjin got back on his feet and waited for you to join him. “Oh don’t worry. The old lady did threaten to call them. But I charmed her.”

Of course, he did. Nobody could possibly resist him. And yet, you wondered how he managed this miracle. You knew Mrs. Kim; she was an old, cold lady, who loved her peace and didn’t appreciate strangers. In fact, she didn’t like many people, you included. Not that you minded.

“And how exactly did you charm her?”

“I told her that we fought and I was willing to stay at your door the whole night if it means you will forgive me. Turns out she’s a romantic. She wished me good luck.” Hyunjin admitted, a faint blush on his face.

You would have never guessed. But then again, you avoided the old woman as much as you could.

Hyunjin’s eyes roamed your face and then your body, silently checking for any injuries. You winced because he couldn’t miss the blood on your clothes. He closed the distance between the two of you and cupped your face, worry written all over his face. “Are you hurt?”

You should be annoyed. Annoyed that Jisung told him where you lived. Annoyed that he came here. Annoyed that he cared so much for you when you were half of the time a bitch to him. Annoyed how your heartbeat quickened at his touch. Annoyed how your insides melted. But you didn’t feel annoyance. No, you felt the butterflies in your stomach and the need to wrap yourself around him and let his warmth consume you.

“I’m fine.” You assured him, your throat suddenly dry.

Despite your answer, Hyunjin didn’t look fully convinced. You held your breath as his hands slowly slid from your face to your neck and then to your unzipped jacket. His frown only deepened at the sight of blood. Sensing what he was about to do, you grabbed his hands and forced him to stop, remembering too late that your hands weren’t very clean either. “It’s not my blood.”

“Are you sure?”

It appeased your heart to know that he wasn’t worried about what you did, only about you. A small smile crept across your face. “Yes. I was too fast for him.”

Hyunjin took you off guard; he pressed his forehead against yours, exhaling in relief. “Good.”

The reasonable thing to do would be to tell him to go home. The reasonable thing would be to put some distance between the two of you, but your body refused to move and your words got stuck in your throat. The little voice inside your head screamed at you to escape his warmth – you didn’t even try. No, you closed your eyes and reveled in the moment. It felt too nice. Too good. Girl, you’re fucked.

“Want to come in?”

***

You didn’t want to get used to the feeling of waking up beside a still sleeping Hyunjin. It went against your rules and compromised everything you worked for. And yet, as you watched him sleeping, a few strands of hair hiding his eyes, you barely cared. You hadn’t felt this calm, this peaceful in years. It disturbed you but it was also nice.

You reached out to touch his face, but Hyunjin grabbed your wrist and instead pulled you right in his arms, his grip strong around you. You squealed, surprised. And here you thought he was still sleeping. He tricked you.  

“Were you pretending, Hwang?” You tried to sound annoyed to hide your own embarrassment.

Hyunjin held you a little tighter as he planted a kiss to the crown of your head. “Maybe. Maybe not.”

You huffed against his chest and pressed yourself a little more against him, wrapping a leg over him. Yeah, it was a nice change. 

Hyunjin chuckled at your unusual behavior. “And here I thought you didn’t mind sharing a bed with me as long as I wasn’t a hugger.” He threw back your own words at you. 

And he was damn right. You never liked huggers and yet you couldn’t deny that you were enjoying it with Hyunjin. To save your face, you tried to extract yourself from the safety of his arms. You barely made it before he pulled you back with even more strength and wrapped his limbs around you. 

“No, no. Don’t even try. You’re stuck with me.” He warned you. 

“Let me go, Hwang.” You tried again. But he didn’t let go. “Hyunjin.” 

He hummed against you and brushed his lips against your skin, shutting you up pretty quickly. “Try calling me Hyunjin again and you won’t leave this bed at all.” 

You were glad your face was hidden from his eyes, preventing him from seeing the light blush that formed on your face. He was a menace and was getting better at it with every moment he spent with you. You were in trouble. 

***

By some kind of miracle, the two of you managed to get ready and leave on time. Hyunjin thought the two of you would get to the office together, but sadly for him you had other plans in mind and you couldn’t let him come with you. 

“Wait, you’re not coming with me?” Hyunjin realized when you were finally ready to part from him. 

“Yeah. I have few things to do.” You admitted, feeling a little nervous under his knowing gaze. Of course, he knew you were up to something again. 

Hyunjin stayed close to you, watching you, thinking about what he should do. The reasonable thing to do, and especially because he was your partner, would to push you to tell him your plan. But Hyunjin knew better. He could try to force you but he wanted you to willingly include him in your plans, to show him that you trusted him. 

“Does it involve you ending up with blood on your clothes?” He asked instead. 

“No.” You said. 

“And you won’t get hurt either right?” 

Did your heart miss a beat at his genuine concern for your wellbeing? Absolutely. You cleared your throat and avoided his eyes; you didn’t need him to see the different emotions in your eyes. 

“No. I’ll be fine.” 

Hyunjin gently grabbed your face and brushed his lips against yours. “No more killing, Y/N.” He insisted.

You opened your mouth to protest but he hurried to add. “For the week.” 

You shook your head, chuckling to yourself. “Careful, Hwang. You’re becoming like me.” 

***

You arrived at the restaurant shortly after. Despite your intentions, you hesitated at the entrance. You easily spotted the person you were looking for through the window; your cousin looked just the same. Still cheerful, still loud and just like every time you saw him, he was surrounded by his friends. You felt a pang in your heart. You used to love spending time with him, he was the only family that still mattered to you, the only you cared about. You didn’t want to involve him in your plan, but he was the safest choice.

You took a deep breath and pushed the door. You walked in as if you owned the place. A small smile towards the waiter and then, you walked straight to your cousin’s table. He was too busy telling a story, he didn’t notice you until it was too late. The moment his eyes locked with yours, a huge grin spread on your lips.

“Hi, sweet boy.” You plopped on the empty chair beside him. “Hello boys.”

A hush fell over the table; all they did was stare at you.

“Well look at that. Isn’t it your sweet little cousin?” One of his friend beamed in delight and mischief. Beomgyu was still this mischievous kid that followed your cousin. You could scowl at him all you wanted, he never cared which you couldn’t help but appreciate.

“It has been a while kiddo.” You leaned closer to him and nudged his arm playfully. “Still a troublemaker?”

“Look who’s talking.” He teased back. “Hey, Yeonjun, when was the last time you saw your cousin?”

You rolled your eyes in response. It wasn’t even that long. Maybe two or three months ago. At best.

“Six months ago.” Yeonjun answered, tapping his fingers on the table, unamused.

Oops. So maybe you got carried away with your work and forgot to visit him. You didn’t look so smug anymore. “It can’t be that long!” But it probably was. “I’m sorry.” You raised your hands in defense. “I’m a bad cousin but you already knew that.” 

You weren’t really bad cousin. You knew that. And so did Yeonjun. When he needed you the most, you were there. When he finally found the courage to put his past behind him, you were delighted to help him to have a fresh start.

Yeonjun sighed and just when you thought he would make it harder than it had to be, he threw a fry right at you, an devilish grin on his face. 

You gasped loudly. “Asshole!” 

“Love you too, pumpkin.” He blew you a kiss. 

“Ugh not this nickname.” You groaned but even if you didn’t like it, your inside warmed at his words. You shouldn’t have stayed away for so long. 

“Are we about to start a food fight?” Beomgyu asked, already grabbing a tomato, ready to aim. 

“No!” You both answered. Yeonjun probably because he didn’t want to be banned from this restaurant and you because you didn’t want to dirty your clothes. 

“What are you doing here, Y/N?” Yeonjun leaned a little closer. 

“What do you mean?” You feigned innocence. “I miss my cousin.” 

Yeonjun rolled his eyes at your bad acting. “As if.” 

You did miss him, but he was right, you weren’t here because of that. “Fine. I need your help.”

He cocked a brow, a little intrigued. Usually, it was the other way around and it made him curious. “I’m listening.”

“I need you to steal a very important contract from your old daddy.” 

He wasn’t supposed to follow you. He should have headed straight to work and forget about the different plans that were probably forming in your head. But could someone blame him for worrying? He knew how reckless you were and no matter how good you were at your work, one day it could fireback. So instead of doing his own job, he followed you as discretely as possible, knowing that if you ever caught him, you would be pissed. 

Out of all the places he expected you to go, a restaurant wasn’t one of them. He waited and watched from across the street. You looked comfortable with the group of men, smiling and laughing. A sight he still wasn’t used to see but couldn’t deny worked against him. Your smile warmed him and his heart beat a little faster, imagining it was for him. It dawned on him that your smile meant a lot to him and if he could, he would keep it only for himself. If he could, he would keep you for himself.

Seeing you safe and sound should have been enough for him to leave and go back to his business. But did he? No. He stood rooted to the spot, staring at you.

Hyunjin was not a jealous person. Or insecure. At least, he thought he wasn’t. But apparently, when it came to you, everything changed. The moment he saw one of the men lean into you and wrap his arms around you, Hyunjin couldn’t ignore the green monster inside him. He wanted to talk to the two of you and yank you away from the man. He wanted to ask you the difficult questions. But he did none of that. Because there was one thing he didn’t want: fight with you. 

Or maybe he was just a coward. 

***

Hyunjin came back to his office feeling suddenly tired but also needing a distraction. He thought working on his other case would distract him from thoughts of you, from the image of another man holding you. It was a useless attempt when you lived rent free in his head. 

“Fuck.” He cursed and gripped his pen so tightly he broke it in two. 

“Someone is in a mood.” Jisung’s cheerful voice interrupted his trail of thoughts.

Hyunjin blinked in confusion, his eyes on his broken pen. He was a mess and he bet it was written all over his face. He tried to compose himself as Jisung approached, but failed.

“Dude, you look miserable.” Jisung commented and plopped on a chair, making himself comfortable.

For once, Hyunjin didn’t feel like talking to his friend, knowing damn well he would seek information out of him, knowing he would read right through him.  “What are you doing here, Ji?”

“I was bored.” Jisung shrugged as if it was nothing which earnt him a scowl from Hyunjin, ready to fight him. Jisung raised his hands in defense. “Fine. Stop looking at me like that. You’re becoming like her.”

But his scowl only deepened at the mention of you.

Jisung sighed in defeat. “Fine. I saw you earlier, you looked pissed as hell. I tried calling for you a few times – you either didn’t hear me or ignored me on purpose.”

“And you don’t like being ignored.” Hyunjin commented.

“That,” Jisung agreed with a nod, “And I was worried too.”

Hyunjin considered not telling him what was bothering him but he quickly figured that if he couldn’t openly tell you that he was jealous, he could at least share it with Jisung. Hyunjin ruffled his hair in frustration and groaned. “I followed her this morning and saw her with a bunch of men.”

Jisung leaned closer, his attention fully on him, a tiny smirk on his face that irked Hyunjin. “Nothing unusual for the moment.”

“She looked really close with one of them. I-“

“Damn man, you’re so whipped.” Jisung couldn’t hold back.

“Am not.” Hyunjin protested in vain. He stared at Jisung for a moment, sensing that he had lied not only to his friend but also to himself. Hyunjin buried his face in his hands to stifle another groan. “I don’t know what I’m doing.”

Jisung chuckled at his misery. “Well, a piece of advice; you should talk to her and clear the air.”

“You know her better than me.” Hyunjin reminded him. “Do you really think she will take it well?”

Jisung considered his question for a moment. “Probably not.”

***

9pm.

On a normal day, Hyunjin would have been already back at his place, relaxing with some food and a TV show. Tonight, however, he dreaded the moment he would have to go back home and found himself stuck with thoughts he wanted to avoid. But if Hyunjin thought staying at work would save him from you, he was wrong.

The door to his office was pushed, the sound making him realize that he wasn’t alone on the floor as he initially thought. His eyes widened in shock to see you standing by the door. He gulped nervously as he eyed you from head to toe. Hyunjin didn’t think you could look any better but you proved him wrong again. You wore different clothes from this morning; a leather skirt along with a white blouse. Hair tied in a ponytail, red lips. Sexy, confident and delighted with his reaction. He quickly averted his eyes, refusing to let you see how affected he was with just your presence.

Foolish of him to think it would stop you.

Hyunjin heard your light steps getting closer to him. He tried to pretend you weren’t here but as you got closer, so did your sweet, intoxicating scent. He watched from the corner of his eyes as you sat on his desk, your skirt hiking in the process. He shouldn’t be staring at your lovely legs but the temptation was too strong and he was just too weak when it came to you. Hyunjin closed his eyes and took a deep breath to compose himself.

“What’s wrong, Hwang?” You asked and gently grabbed his chin, forcing him to face you.

Such a simple touch and yet it sent shivers down his spine. A simple touch that set his body on fire. “Nothing.” But maybe, Hyunjin was a little stubborn too. “I’m just tired.”

You scoffed at his blatant lie. “You’re a terrible liar. Try again.”

Hyunjin resisted. “What are you doing here, Y/N?”

“Why not?” You asked instead. “You’re my partner.”

‘Am I only that?’ he wanted to ask instead but no words left his mouth. He simply stared back at you, watching as a frown formed on your face at his silence and refusal to cooperate. It only proved you that there was something wrong with him.

Hyunjin easily freed himself from your grip and slumped further into his chair. “I’m sure you have better things to do, Y/N.” Maybe pushing you away wasn’t his brightest idea, but Hyunjin wasn’t sure he would be able to control himself and to hide his emotions. He didn’t want you to see just how affected he was.

“You’re right.” You said and jumped from his desk. For once, you didn’t want to push his limits. You didn’t want to fight. “I should probably go back to people who actually miss me.”

The moment you turned your back to leave, Hyunjin saw again the image of you, happy, with a man other than him and he didn’t like it. Before you could take another step, Hyunjin bolted from his chair and grabbed your arm. He spun you in his arms and claimed your mouth, any protests swallowed by his mouth.

There was absolutely no way, he could let you leave.

Contrary to what he thought you would do; you didn’t try to push him away. No, he felt you smiling against his lips, knowing you had win this game so damn easily. It should alarm him, but he didn’t find it in him to care. Not when you wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him even closer to your body. Not when you fought him just as hardly for dominance.

Hyunjin lifted you from the floor, bringing you back on top of his desk. He stood between your legs, grinding against you. His whole body was begging him to do something, to taste you, to devour you. You were his drug and he was more than eager to indulge in his addiction.

“And here I thought you wanted me to leave, Hwang.” You managed to say, wanting to sound smug, but instead your voice came out breathy.  

Hyunjin refused to answer to your provocation. Instead, he hiked your skirt and slid his hand between your legs, humming in satisfaction. You were soaked and he barely touched you. “How come you’re already this wet, darling?”

Hyunjin slipped two fingers inside you with ease, teasing. So wet. So warm. So perfect. And only for him.

You bit on your lips to prevent a moan from escaping. Futile attempt. “Mmmh, maybe because I was thinking about you.”

Hyunjin smiled lazily. “Is that so?” He pulled out his fingers and brought them to his lips, to have a taste. His drug. “Are you hoping to get fucked tonight, Y/N?”

Judging by the glint in his eyes, you guessed that trying to play coy would get you nowhere. “Yes.” You admitted. Because truth was, you couldn’t get enough of him too.

Hyunjin’s smile stretched wider. His hands left your body to unzip his pants, showing you your prize. His pretty cock. Hard and needy. “And who am I to deny you?”

You licked your lips in hunger and anticipation, your body remembering how nice he felt. How nice his cock could stretch you. 

Hyunjin pushed your legs further apart and filled you to the hilt with one strong push. You threw your head back as a loud and needy moan escaped your lips. Hyunjin groaned as you clenched without thinking around him.

“Fuck, Y/N.” He growled and slowly pulled out until just the tip of his cock was inside of you.

“Don’t hold back.” You pleaded. You wanted him to show you no mercy. To ruin you completely. To leave you begging, drooling, unable to do anything except beg for his cock.

Hyunjin hovered over you and planted a sweet kiss. The last one before he let go. He thrust back in. Strong. Deep. Every thrust harder than the last.

You thrashed under him, trying to grab at anything to keep you grounded.

Pointless. 

Your eyes rolled in the back of your head at the intensity. But his hand closed around your neck, forcing you to keep your eyes open. Forcing you to look him in the eyes as he fucked you with intensity, bringing you closer to your sweet release. So close you could taste it. You could feel it.

“Please, Hyunjin,” You begged, tears pricking your eyes. Your whole body was burning, shaking, begging for release. “I’m so close.”

Hyunjin smirked, “I love when you beg, Y/N.”

Just when you thought you would explode, Hyunjin slowed down. He did once. Twice. By the third time you writhed and cried. You grabbed his arms, scratching him in retribution but it only made him grin.

“Say what you need.”

“Hyunjin, I can’t. Please.” You pleaded, too desperate for relief.

And he complied. He fucked you with force, hitting the sweet spot inside you that made your toes curl. You tried to keep your eyes open, but you couldn’t. Not when your orgasm hit you, waves of pleasures. Your body shook, unable to stop as Hyunjin kept fucking you.

Hyunjin came with a shudder before collapsing on top of you, his head pressed to your breasts. You stayed in silence. The only sound in the room were your pants and the loud beating of your hearts.

“Come to my place?” You found your voice and yet you didn’t sound like yourself. Too vulnerable.

Hyunjin peeked at you, his hair sticking to his face. “Round two?”

***

You were full of surprises.

Hyunjin realized as he stood in the middle of your living room that he should definitely stop making assumptions about you. He came to terms that despite the time the two of you had spent together there were still so many layers of your personality, many things about your life that he didn’t know but was more than eager to find out.

Who would have guessed that you enjoyed cooking? It seemed so out of character. He thought your hobbies would definitely revolve around knives and different kind of weapons. And maybe a shopping addict because your outfits always looked on point. And yet when he glanced over his shoulder and saw you cooking and humming to yourself, it seemed so natural. You had tied your hair in a messy bun and had changed into more comfortable clothes; grey sweatpants and an oversized white t-shirt. You looked so homey, so comfortable, Hyunjin had to fight the urge to join you and backhug you.

He shook off the image of you and him for the sake of his sanity and instead took his time to observe your place. Last night, his attention was fully on you, he barely noticed the details. Hyunjin expected to see a place cold, without personality and with only few furniture because you seemed like someone who just didn’t have time to linger for long in one place.

Boy wrong he was. Warm colors, fluffy blankets and pillows spread all over the couch and on a single chair. Dozens of shelves with books occupied two walls. Pictures all over the main wall in the living room. So many pictures. Hyunjin walked to the wall, his hands in his pockets. Pictures that showed you at different stages of your life. On some you looked like a high-schooler, on some a little older, and always surrounded by people. You looked happy, a big smile plastered on your face on every pictures and sometimes you were making silly faces. On one picture he recognized Chris; he had one arm around your shoulders, dimples on full display and another girl with the two of you. But what got his full attention was the picture of you and the man he recognized from earlier. You were on his back, laughing.

“Ah. You found my wall of memories.” You joined him and looked fondly at the pictures.

“You look different.” Hyunjin admitted without looking at you. You looked free, happy and so warm. A side of you he saw glimpses from time to time but he wondered what it would be like if you were always like this.

You hummed in response.

“Who are they?” Hyunjin asked when really all he wanted to ask was: who is this guy?

“Friends. Some I met years ago and some during my missions.”

“And him?” Hyunjin ended up pointing at the mysterious guy. Was he another of your friends? He looked too comfortable with you, too touchy, too close.

Your face softened at the picture. “My cousin and the only family left. He’s a pain in my ass but I love him.”

Did Hyunjin feel a little dumb for believing he was something more? Yeah. But was he also relieved? Hell yes. He almost wept in relief. He didn’t dare to look at you, scared you would see the emotions written all over his face. But if he thought he could hide from you, he was once more wrong. You saw how tensed he was before he found out the identity of the guy and you didn’t forget his behaviour in his office.

You drew nearer, watching him. “Tell me, Hwang,” You wrapped your arms around his neck and gently tug at his hair. “Did you think he was my man?” You brushed your lips against his, smiling against him. “You’re a terrible spy by the way.”

Fuck my life. Hyunjin should have known that his spying skill weren’t on par with yours but he still thought he was being discrete. Or maybe he was too caught up in his head when he saw you with your cousin and simply didn’t hide well enough.

You bit on his lower lip making him growl. “Were you jealous?”

Hyunjin opened his mouth to protest but closed it as quickly. Who was he kidding? He was jealous and you both knew it.

You laughed fondly and pecked his lips once more before going back to the kitchen without a word.

Jisung was right. He was completely and utterly whipped for you.

***

When Namjoon asked to see him, Hyunjin almost expected another meeting with you. Yet, this time around he was the only one to come. Was it an ominous sign? Maybe but Hyunjin refused to think about it. The past week was incredible. It seemed that the universe was finally smiling at him. Or maybe he got lucky. Either way, he was thriving.

A lead in his case. Many nights tangled up in your sheets. Many stolen kisses. Many giggles. Everything to be happy.

“Should I worry?” Namjoon asked as he eyed him. “You look too happy.” He added seeing his confused face.

Hyunjin bit the inside of his cheek to hold back his smile and shook his head.

Namjoon quirked a brow but didn’t comment. He pushed some papers instead towards him. Hyunjin leaned closer and took a look. He stiffened as he saw the names mentioned on the papers.

“What the,” Hyunjin stopped himself on time. His eyes darted back and forth between what clearly was the contract between the crows and Park Minjun. “How?” But Hyunjin had a feeling, he already knew how. The image of you and blood on your clothes popped in his mind. It had to be you.

“Y/N brought it yesterday. Along with the list of people the crows wanted to sell the weapons too.” Namjoon explained and relaxed in his seat. “I have everything I need for the next step. Which also means the two of you don’t need to work together anymore.”

Hyunjin’s stomach sank at his words. Of course, it was bound to happen sooner or later and it shouldn’t worry him so much now that he was spending more time with you without even talking about work. But then, he was with you last night, you could have told him. But you didn’t. Why?

Namjoon observed him in silence. He expected Hyunjin to be happy to finally be free of you and your temper, but he guessed easily he was wrong. “You seem disappointed.” 

“I-“ Hyunjin began and stopped himself. Disappointed was an understatement but he couldn’t tell him that. Instead, he cleared his throat and straightened his back. “No, I’m good.” 

“Is that so?” Namjoon wasn’t convinced but didn’t insist, it wasn’t his business. “But in case you’re wondering, Y/N asked for few days off. You won’t see her around.” 

***

Hyunjin had a bad feeling that had everything to do with the damn contract you had brought to Namjoon. You kept doing things on your own, things that clearly were dangerous if not impossible to accomplish. And yet, you somehow managed to pull it off. Did you get help? Did you somehow manage to infiltrate the crows? Or maybe you had someone inside who was willing to take a huge risk for you. There were so many possible theories in his mind. One thing was sure, he needed to make sure you weren’t in trouble. 

Like any normal person, Hyunjin tried calling you. Once, twice. Ten times and with no result. It was his first clue that something he didn’t know about was going on. Then, he called Jisung. He didn’t want to overstep some boundaries but he couldn’t ignore how his worries were consuming him from inside. 

Thankfully, Jisung didn’t send him straight to his voicemail. “Whatever it is, I can’t help you.” As if Jisung knew from the start why he was calling.

Hyunjin’s nostrils flared at his words. “Where is she?” 

“Who?” 

“My mother.” Hyunjin snapped. It wasn’t in his character to snap at people and especially not at his friends but his patience was running thin. “Y/N. Who else?” 

“No clue, why?” 

Hyunjin took a deep breath, clenched his fist and counted to ten. Why did it need to be so damn complicated? “Jisung. You’re a terrible liar. You have tabs on everyone. Even Namjoon. So tell me, where is she?”

Jisung gasped loudly, offended that he would use his little secret against him. “I do-“

“Please.” Hyunjin cut him. “I just need to make sure she’s okay.” 

“I promise you she’s more than okay.” Jisung tried to appease him.

“Jisung.”

“You can’t call me every time you need help with her! I’m also her friend and it sucks to be stuck between you two.”

Hyunjin winced at his words that felt like a slap. Jisung was right. And Hyunjin did feel bad about it. Except, when it came to you, he became a selfish bastard. “And I’m sorry for that. But please, help me out.”

“She’s going to have my head.” Jisung grumbled more to himself than to Hyunjin, but despite his words, Hyunjin heard him doing his little magic trick on his computer.  

***

Getting inside a bar, unnoticed, in the middle of the day was harder than Hyunjin had imagined. And just maybe he had overestimated his spying skills. Again. The first person to notice him was the barman; he stared at him with a quirked brow, clearly curious with Hyunjin’s little game. Hyunjin expected him to say something and maybe call the security– he didn’t. He shrugged as if he didn’t care, as if it wasn’t his business.

Hyunjin was not complaining with his little luck.

“I’m not having this conversation with you.” Hyunjin recognized your voice instantly. He found you at the other side of the room, heading to the hall along with two other men. And boy you looked pissed. He didn’t know what these men did to offend you, but he bet they were about to spend a very bad time with you.

Any other day, Hyunjin would have felt sympathy for these poor men, but then, Hyunjin really looked at them. One face, he was familiar with. A man he recognized from an old case; he had been a suspect but because of lack of proof he was still a free man. Why are you with him, Y/N?

Curiosity got the best of him; Hyunjin followed you, trying not to make any sound.

“He’s furious.” The second man commented, sounding nervous as he spoke.

“I don’t see how it’s my problem.” You completely disregarded his worries.

“Y/N, you don’t understand. He’s ready to shoot us all if we don’t confess-“ He tried again but you raised your hand, without even looking at him, and it was enough to shut him up.

Hyunjin had to admit it; he was impressed with how your whole body radiated with authority and power. They obeyed you as if they were scared of what you could possibly do to them if they utter one more wrong word.

“And I think,” A voice echoed right from behind Hyunjin. He realized too late that while he thought he was being discrete, someone else had spotted him and had a gun pointed right at his head. Shit.

“You should have this conversation somewhere else.” The man behind him finished.

You glanced over your shoulder. Instead of freezing on the spot or calling for him, you simply stared blankly at them. For once, Hyunjin couldn’t read you, couldn’t tell how you felt about seeing him here. And maybe it worried him a little. Whatever you were doing, he wondered if it was on Namjoon’s behalf. Would you compromise your mission to help him out?

“Walk.” The man behind him gave him a nudge, forcing Hyunjin to get closer to you.

Hyunjin tried to keep his cool, tried not to show how he truly felt but his heart was beating fast and loud inside his chest.

Hyunjin was shoved inside a room. He barely had time to react and to steady himself that a man punched him in the stomach. He stumbled and cursed under his breath. Maybe following you wasn’t his brightest idea after all. Despite the pain, he managed to have a proper look at you. To others, you looked cold, but he saw how your body was tense, your fists clenched. You weren’t indifferent after all and this small fact comforted him.

“What should we do with him?” One of them asked, eying you as if you were the one to decide.

“We should kill him.” Another suggested as he pointed at Hyunjin with his gun. Someone was eager to get rid of him. Hyunjin would be lying if he said he wasn’t at least a little bit worried for his safety. If you didn’t intervene, he would have to fight his way out.

Too concentrated on you, Hyunjin didn’t pay any attention to the other three men. He should have. One of them closed the distance between them and drove his knee into the back of Hyunjin’s, forcing him to the ground. Hyunjin groaned, his instincts wanting him to fight back – he didn’t. No, Hyunjin’s whole attention was only on you.

“Who sent you?” One of them crunched to his level but despite his closeness, Hyunjin’s eye were still on you. That, didn’t go unnoticed. The man punched his face, not liking Hyunjin’s behavior. “I asked you a question.”

“What make you think someone sent me?” Hyunjin finally answered but still was not looking at him. He was watching you. And only you. He didn’t want to miss any flinch, any twitch of your eyes, every twitch in your jaw. He wanted to see how you reacted to the violence. See if you cared. “Have you seen this lady?” Hyunjin pointed at you. “What make you think that I’m not here because of her? Because she had me completely bewitched?”

The man scoffed and straightened up. “This bastard is crazy.”

The tension in the room was so thick you could cut it with a knife. Nobody talked. Hyunjin because there was nothing left to say. You, because you were staring back at him. As for the men, they felt there was something going on but couldn’t understand it.

 “Leave us.” You ordered without looking at the men.

“Y/N. You don’t have time. Boss wants to see you.” One of them reminded you.

The only sign of your annoyance was your clenched jaw but you still weren’t looking at them.

“Don’t make me repeat myself.” You warned them.

But they weren’t listening to you. Or maybe they didn’t know you well enough not to push you. “Let us deal with him.”

A knife flew straight to the man’s shoulder making him cry out in pain and stumble.

“I’ll deal with him and then I’ll meet with boss.” You assured them with one deadly glare. “Now, get lost.”

And this time, they did.

Hyunjin had hoped you would drop your act with their absence, that you would explain yourself – except you didn’t. You stared at him with annoyance and already another knife in your hand.

Hyunjin got back on his feet. He wished he could come closer to you, could wrap his arms around you and make sure that everything was fine. But for once, he listened to the little voice in his head, telling him to stay alert. It wasn’t over yet.

“They respect you.”  He commented.

You shrugged and your eyes darted on your knife. “They do. Most of the time.”

“Who are they, Y/N?” Hyunjin wasn’t sure he wanted the answer to his question.

“Idiots working for the crows.”

Hyunjin’s breath hitched in his throat. “And their boss wants to see you.”

You tuck the knife back in your boot and took a deep breath. The situation couldn’t get any worse, but it somehow did. “Yes.”

There was one question that Hyunjin should be asking. One question that was right on the tip of his tongue and yet, he couldn’t do it. Asking it would complicate things.

“Ask it, Hyunjin.” As you grew nearer, Hyunjin’s heart beat faster. The way you looked at him, the way your body moved – it screamed danger. You halted right before him. Gently, you stroked his cheek.

Hyunjin didn’t want to ask because now he knew, the moment you would give him your answer; his bubble of happiness would burst for good. He did it anyway. “Are you working for the crows?”

Please, say no.

“Yes.”

Hyunjin barely had time to hear your answer. To understand it. Everything turned black.

Rage nearly consumed you.

Hyunjin shouldn’t have been here. He shouldn’t have been seen by these idiots. The moment Jun had pointed his gun at Hyunjin, you had to fight the need to step in and damn the consequences. But then, when Doyun forced Hyunjin on his knees, the urge to hurt someone got so strong, you weren’t sure what compelled you to keep your composure. From outside you had looked indifferent, cold, but inside? You were screaming and burning with the urge to kill and get Hyunjin far from this damn place.  

You were late and judging by how anxious the guys were, you could only imagine in what kind of mood the boss was. But you didn’t care. Not when another man occupied all your thoughts.

You pulled your phone from your pocket and dialed Jisung’s number. You prayed for his own good that he wouldn’t make you wait and answer the god damn phone. There was only one, insufferable person, who could have told Hyunjin where you were.

He answered. “Listen,” Jisung tried but you didn’t let him talk.

“Shut up! You little piece of shit!” You yelled, your grip on your phone was so strong, you wouldn’t be surprised if it cracked. “What were you thinking, Jisung?”

Jisung sighed on the other side. He had been your friend long enough to know that whatever excuses he would try to give you, in this state, you wouldn’t listen. You wouldn’t care. “Hello to you too, sunshine.” He chose to say instead.

He had a dead wish. “Don’t.” you warned him with a growl.

“Y/N…”

“What were you thinking?” You repeated again.

There was a loud noise from Jisung’s side, as if he had either pushed something or maybe smashed it. “He was worried, ok? What were you expecting me to tell him?”

“Anything! What if I was with my uncle?” You refused to imagine what could have possibly happened but your brain still did it. You closed your eyes, wanting to erase the image from your mind but it wouldn’t go. You kept seeing Hyunjin and the damn gun.

Your hand shook and at any moment you could let go of your phone. “He would have killed him on the spot, Ji. No question asked.”

Jisung didn’t say anything for a moment, proceeding your words. “And it bothers you?”

“Of course, it does!” The moment those words left your mouth, you realized two things: one, how true they sounded and two, you regretted admitting it to Jisung out of all people. You adored your friend, but he was noisy and would make sure to remind you every day your confession.

“Oh Y/N,” Jisung cooed, forgetting for a second that you were in a sour mood. “Do you actually like Hyunjin?”

Yes. But you held back those words. He didn’t need to know it. “You’re next on my shit list.” And you hung up.

He wasn’t really on your list. Would probably never be, but you didn’t mind him worrying over it.

You stared at your phone for a moment, considering your next step. The reasonable thing to do would go and meet with the boss as it was expected of you but one glance at the door behind you and your resolution wavered. You couldn’t leave Hyunjin unattended. You couldn’t let someone find him and hurt him.

Fuck it.

You opened your conversation with Chris and quickly texted him.

‘I need your help.’

***

Your uncle was indeed incredibly pissed. Not that you expected anything less and not that you could blame him. After all, he had been working on his little project for a year, making sure that everybody was on board with his plan. Making sure to drive Park Minjun in a corner, leaving him with no choice but beg for his help. And what help. A shitty contract. The control of his business in exchange for safety. If only he knew that his current situation was because of him.

Lee Beomseok, your uncle, and the boss of the crows. A man known for his business, for his methods, for his cruelty and zero bullshit policy. He was respected and feared in the underground world. Sometimes, you were impressed with his accomplishment. But most of the times, you wanted to see his world burn.

“Confess!” He yelled at the poor, shaking man at his feet. So maybe Jun wasn’t exaggerating when he said your uncle had finally lost it and started killing every suspect, even if it meant killing his own men.

“Please.” The man begged, his shaking only intensifying as your uncle pressed the gun harder to his head. “It’s not me. I would ne-“ But your uncle didn’t give a damn about his talk of loyalty. He shot the poor man in the head.

You whistled, leaning against the wall with your arms crossed over your chest, a look of indifference on your face. “Someone is in a mood.”

You didn’t think his face could get any angrier but it did. The veins in his neck were showing, his face red. “Leave us!” he barked.

Nobody protested, they scurried away in fright.

Your uncle stared at you, his breath shallow. He kept clenching and unclenching his fists, probably trying to calm himself down. You weren’t one of his men, his outbursts didn’t faze you. Not anymore. You weren’t ten anymore and he knew it.

“You were supposed to lead them astray.” He said after a moment of silence. He walked to his chair and took seat.

“I did.” You reminded him without bothering to look at him, instead you checked your nails, knowing damn well that your lack of reaction would only fuel his anger. Maybe it amused you a little to see him in this state, his composure long forgotten.

“Y/N.” He warned you.

“What?” You sighed and looked at him, “It’s not my fault if someone gave them your stupid contract and the list. How did you even manage to lose it?” Were you enjoying yourself reminding him his own failures? Absolutely.

You noticed how his left eye twitched at your words, you bet he wanted to grab his gun and shot you on the spot – he wouldn’t. After years of working for him, you knew he valued you too much to kill you.

He slumped further into his chair. “I’m still looking for the fucker who dared to betray me.”

You pushed yourself of the wall and took seat. “Where did you keep it?”

He looked at you, annoyed. “Where do you think?”

“Your safe then. Not many people know where you hide it.” You noted, “Maybe, instead of shooting all your poor men, you should look into your closest circle.” Not that he would find the traitor among them but you wouldn’t mind seeing him kill some of his trusted men.

He considered your advice for a moment and nodded his head. “When I find the traitor, I’ll make him pay his mistake.” He promised.

Except he would never find the traitor. For two simple reasons. One, he underestimated his own son too much and two you made sure while Yeonjun was helping you to steal from his old daddy, Jisung erased all traces of him ever being present in this place.

“Do you need my help?”

Your uncle shook his head. “No. I need you to take care of some business partners who became too bold.”

Of course, the answer to all his problems was always to kill.

“How should I deal with them?”

“Do what you do best.”

A small smile spread on your face. His order was clear. But there was something else you were better at. He just didn’t know it yet.

Hyunjin woke up with his head killing him. It took him a moment to force his eyes to open. He tried to straighten himself in the bed, only to groan in pain. Fuck my life. He palmed his forehead, trying to sooth the pain.

It took him another five minutes to notice his surroundings.

A room. A very unfamiliar room. And then everything flashed through his mind.

The bar. You. The crows. You. Him almost dying because he cared too much. Him being an idiot. You. A damn spy right under their noses.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

His head was no longer the only thing that hurt. His chest. His heart clenching so tightly, he thought he could die. Hyunjin couldn’t breathe properly with all the thoughts and images running wild in his head. And yet, with his panic came one realization.

He was still alive.

Hyunjin forced his breath to slow down and had a proper look at his surroundings. It was clear to him that he was no longer in the bar. The room was too nice and looked to expensive. Had he been taken prisoner?

Hyunjin climbed off the bed and slowly approached the door, expecting that any second someone would pop out of nowhere and attack him and finish the job.

None of that happened.

He tried the door and surprisingly it was unlocked which left Hyunjin even more confused. Was he not a prisoner? Why would they let him roam free? With this thought on mind, he left his room, trying not to make any sound until he was certain that he wasn’t in danger.

Hyunjin’s confusion grew with every step he took. The place he was being held in was really too nice and looked expensive. He quickly realized it wasn’t a house but a damn penthouse. Would the crows keep him in a place like this? He doubted.

Instead of finding a stranger or you, Hyunjin found Chris on his phone, wearing comfortable clothes. That was not how he expected things to turn out.

“Oh. Good, you’re awake.” Chris offered him a comforting smile. “How’s your head?”

Hyunjin opened his mouth and closed it right away. He didn’t know what to say, what to ask. Nothing made sense anymore. He went for the easy answer, “I’ll survive.”

Chris hummed. “She didn’t need to smash your head so hard. But then again, it’s Y/N we’re talking about.”

“Why am I alive?” Hyunjin asked. It was the question that had been plaguing his mind the most.

Chris looked confused for a second. He cocked his brow, “Why shouldn’t you be?”

Because you had betrayed them all. Because while Hyunjin was slowly falling in love, you were only using him as a distraction and a means to an end. And yet, despite your harsh words, he was alive and safe. It bothered him and left him with even more questions.

“Because none of it was real.” Hyunjin finally admitted.

Chris got back on his feet and slowly approached him. “You’re alive because most of it was real.”

Hyunjin wanted to protest but Chris was right. He was alive which had to mean something. “You knew.” He said instead.

“Which part exactly?”

“That I couldn’t be her husband. And that she’s working for the crows.” The first time Hyunjin had met Chris, he had thought the man was suspicious because there was something going on between him and you. But maybe, he was wrong. Maybe, it had everything to do with Chris knowing exactly who you were.

“I had my suspicions for the husband part. But honestly, knowing Y/N, I wouldn’t be completely surprised either. As for the last part.” Chris paused and for a second it seemed to Hyunjin that he was somewhere else, lost in a memory. But then, his smile widened, his dimples showing up. “Yes. I wouldn’t have met her otherwise. She saved my ass.”

Chris put his hand on Hyunjin’s shoulder and gave it a strong yet comforting squeeze. “I think you know by now that our little Y/N is a little crazy and dangerous. She has been working her ass off to get what she wants. She was ready to sacrifice everything and everybody in exchange for her revenge. But not you.”

It was obvious by now that Chris knew everything about you. It would have bothered him another time, but now it comforted him more than he was willing to admit. Your betrayal still left him confused and hurt, but he found solace in his words.

Chris’s eyes softened while observing him. “She asked me to get you out and keep you safe for a while. But I figured you’d need some company, so I called for back-ups. They should arrive shortly.”

****

When Chris mentioned back-ups, Hyunjin didn’t think much of it, mainly because he had no clue who could help him out. Turns out, Chris knew exactly who Hyunjin needed to see. How he knew Jisung, Hyunjin could guess. But Namjoon? That was a whole new mystery for him to figure out.

“Dude, you look like shit.” Jisung commented and playfully patted his cheeks.

Hyunjin swatted his hands away from his face. He should probably feel concerned that Jisung kept telling him how bad he looked, but he was too tired and not in the mood for his playfulness. “Oh, fuck you.”

If he thought Jisung would be offended, he was wrong. Jisung chuckled and glanced at Chris, sharing a knowing look. “Sounds a lot like her.”

Namjoon sighed. “I think I need a drink. Or two.” As if Chris had sensed his need, he brought him a glass of what looked like whiskey and a second one for himself. “Thank you. Did you hear from her?”

Chris shook his head as he took a sip. “Not since I confirmed her I retrieved Hyunjin from the bar.”

While they talked, Hyunjin listened and watched. They all seemed so relaxed, unbothered and friendly with each other. And Hyunjin just couldn’t understand why. He never would have guessed that Jisung and Namjoon would actually meet outside of work. Scratch that, he wasn’t even aware they talked, despite Namjoon being their boss.

Sensing Hyunjin’s eyes on him, Namjoon stopped talking and instead approached him. “I have something for you.” He took out his phone and shoved it into his hands. “It’s all the information I have on Y/N.”

Hyunjin hesitated for only a second. Or maybe two. He started reading, surprised Namjoon had so much on her. After his encounter with you, Hyunjin didn’t know what to expect but every word he read about you made his heart clench painfully. A happy family torn apart by a terrible accident which left you an orphan at such young age.

“Lee Beomseok is her uncle. He took her in after her parents’ death.” Namjoon stopped his reading. “Instead of giving her a loving family, he raised her to become a killer. His personal weapon.”

No wonder they respected and feared her so much.

“He made sure she was the best at everything. And she is.” Namjoon continued, “But despite knowing how clever she was, he underestimated her.”

Hyunjin could barely imagine what life was for you. You were just a child, grieving, and yet forced to become something that was not in your nature. Hyunjin’s heart ached for your lost childhood, for the little girl turned into a killer for someone’s greediness.

“What changed?” Hyunjin asked. They hadn’t confirmed him that you weren’t a villain in the story, but it was implied.

“She found out he killed her parents.” Chris was the one to answer his question.

“What?” Hyunjin couldn’t believe it.

Namjoon nodded, confirming Chris’s words. “Being the closest to him, she could have easily killed him. But Y/N plays the long game. When he asked her to infiltrate our ranks, she saw it as an opportunity.”

“And you let her?” Hyunjin had a hard time believing that. Namjoon seemed as someone who always went by the rules. But apparently, Hyunjin was wrong once again.

“Oh believe me, I wanted to arrest her the moment she told me who she was.” Namjoon confessed, his eyes on his glass as he swirled the whiskey around in his glass, a small smile on his face. “But she was hella convincing.”

Yeah, he bet you were.

***

When Jisung and Namjoon left, Hyunjin returned to his room. He needed some time alone, even if he appreciated Chris’s company and willingness to answer almost all his questions. He needed to think, to proceed with all the information he had heard tonight about you.

Tonight, Hyunjin realized just how strong you were. Not only physical strength but also mentally. You managed to hide all your hatred, anger and resentment for years for the man only to have a chance to watch his empire crumble. But also, he admired how despite all the ugliness and death you had witnessed through the years, you still saw the good in people and the world.

Only one question remained. What of you two?

Before Hyunjin could dwell on the matter, he heard familiar voices from afar. Your voice. You were back and safe. It should have been enough for him, for now. But no. Bewitched, he followed your voice.

“You should talk to him.” Chris advised you.

You disregarded your jacket along with your gun and few knives. “That’s not a good idea.”

You didn’t look like yourself. Your hair was a mess. Dark circles under your eyes. He wondered how long he had been unconscious because you looked exhausted and unsteady. At least, you weren’t hurt.

Chris sighed and ruffled his hair in frustration. “Stop being a coward.” You snarled in response, eyes shooting daggers. But Chris wasn’t impressed with your attempt at intimidating him. “You care for him and he cares for you. Don’t run away from something good in your life.”

“Me caring for someone never ends well.” You whispered and avoided his eyes.

“I disagree.” Chris put his hands on your shoulders and gave it a squeeze. “Yeonjun would disagree too.”

“You know it will put a target on his back.” You protested.

Hyunjin decided that you should have this conversation with him and not Chris. He couldn’t hide his presence any longer. “I think; I have a say in this.”

Chris didn’t seem surprised seeing him in the room. Or maybe he had spotted him from the beginning and was trying to make you confess so Hyunjin would know how you truly felt. You, on the other hand, froze on the spot. You couldn’t look at him.

Chris walked to Hyunjin, patted his back and smiled. “Good luck.”

Yeah, he would need it.

For a while, you looked everywhere but at him. It annoyed Hyunjin that you wouldn’t look at him, wouldn’t talk to him. After everything they went through together, he didn’t think you would try to avoid a confrontation.

Hyunjin considered what he should say. Ask about your life with the crows? Ask about your family? Or should he just ask what he meant to you? Now, he knew that you cared more than you were willing to admit and this thought comforted him. Not everything was a lie. Not everything was a game.

“Namjoon told me your story.” Hyunjin finally said and started walking toward you.

That got a reaction from you. Your eyes widened in surprise. “Namjoon was here?”

Hyunjin nodded. “Chris called Namjoon and Jisung. He figured I’d need their help to understand.” And then another step toward you. But you, you took a step back, trying to keep the distance between the two of you. As if it would stop Hyunjin.

More you tried to escape and more it amused him. Until there was nowhere else to go. You had your back pressed to the wall and Hyunjin stood right before you, giving you no choice but to look at him.

“Stop it.” You put your hands on his chest and gave it a push. He didn’t budge. “Hyunjin.”

“I’m sorry he stole your childhood.” He said instead. His voice soft. Compassionate.

You averted your eyes. You didn’t want to see the emotions in his eyes. You didn’t want him to convince you there was a something out there for the two of you. “Don’t be.”

“You deserve to be happy too, Y/N.”

“I’ll be happy if you stay away from me.” You snapped and looked at him. The need to push him away was strong but the moment your eyes locked, your heart missed a beat. Despite your outburst, Hyunjin was smiling fondly at you. “There’s something incredibly wrong with you, Hwang.”

Hyunjin chuckled, agreeing with you. He leaned closer, his lips hovering over yours. “You’re a very bad influence.”

You sucked in a breath. “Even more reasons for you to stay away from me.”

He hummed. His lips brushed yours, so lightly, it could have been your imagination. “I don’t want to. And I don’t think you really want me to either.” And then another press of his lips, this time a little stronger. “You can’t get rid of me now.”

“I’m going to kick you.” You threatened. You would do no such things. Not when he kissed the corner of your mouth. “Or punch you.” You sounded less and less convincing. With every small kiss, your resolution crumbled.

But then he stopped. Hyunjin grabbed your chin, his grip strong. “You’re not getting rid of me, Y/N.”

“When did you get so bold?”

“When I realized I fell for you.” Hyunjin admitted. There was no point denying it. No point hiding it. Despite knowing now everything you had done, some terrible things to get what you wanted, Hyunjin couldn’t deny how he felt. Couldn’t unsee the good person hiding in you. “That’s why, my lovely, murderous, Y/N, there’s no getting rid of me.”

Slowly, you pushed yourself from the wall and wrapped your arms around his neck. “You are in trouble, Hwang.”

“Worth it.”

[candyquokka]

bring me luck pls