#/ stepping to plate and knocking a ball out of the park?

[astarab1aze]

2 for kae

sin: wrath questions

Do they regret when they strike out? Find satisfaction in it?

i'm gonna be honest, i'm not entirely sure what this means in this context. are we talking baseball? getting rejected? a strike in bowling? UH--

if we're talking baseball, swinging the bat and hitting the ball to send it flying is far and away more satisfying than striking out, so yes. mans would hate to strike out, his pride's on the line! he's not here to lose! he would fume, and be sore about it for a while, stamp his little feet, flip his hair, and demand another inning. a rematch! he's not going down in history as someone who sucks at anything sldkfjs it's why he tries so hard at everything. that, and the expectations of his family to be Good At Everything Or Be Punished. he does not lose gracefully.

[wynnyfryd]

Trailer park Steve AU part 52

part 1 | part 51 | ao3

cw: period-typical homophobia, canon-typical violence, blood

"I'm just saying!" Eddie laughs as he swings himself around the slender base of a young tree, cigarette dangling from his lips. "I could absolutely rock the blue eyeshadow look the main chick was wearing."

Steve doesn't disagree. They're in a dark alcove on the side of the movie theater, Eddie's hair all lit up from behind, a frizzy halo of pinks and blues from the neon radiating off the front of the building, and he looks fucking gorgeous, and he smells like menthol and strawberry shake, and he's been tapping Steve's wrist so much tonight that he might as well be drumming up a new song just for them.

"Can't argue with that," Steve murmurs as he steps up onto the concrete planter. Gets up in Eddie's space; borrows his cigarette, his words floating out on a thin wisp of smoke. "You look beautiful."

"Beautiful," Eddie mimics, tasting the word, looking unbelievably pleased with the flavor that he finds. His eyes go hooded, and there's a sly tilt to his mouth as his tongue slips out to tease the edge. "You tryin' to start somethin', Harrington?"

Steve's answering hum rumbles deep in his chest. His cock aches in his jeans. God, he wants him; wants to back him up a good ten feet until his body scrapes the bricks. Wants to rough him up a little, like Eddie did to him the first time they kissed — make his breath hitch and his skin buzz and his back arch under his touch.

"Oh, you are," Eddie purrs. He takes the cigarette back, their fingers brushing on the exchange, and they're standing so close now, nothing but this skinny tree between them, just a twig of a thing, really, the toes of their shoes touching on either side of the base.

Steve looks down at the snowy soil. Taps Eddie's wrist. Desperately. Frantically. Take me home right now, so help me—

A low whoop echoes off the pavement.

A predatory jeer, and Steve looks up to see three men approaching — three boys, about their age, and drunk, by the looks of it. He grits his teeth.

Their ringleader looks like a caricature; classic bad boy who thinks too highly of himself, some cheap knock-off mash up of Billy Hargrove and Rob Lowe. Steve eyes the shaggy mullet, the dangly earring skimming the lapel of his black jacket, the silver flask and the stupid swagger, and his blood runs hot. Thrums with the promise of a fight.

“Well shit, boys,” the guy grins to his sidekicks, taking a long swig and wiping his mouth. Gleeful malice in green eyes. Little asshole gets close enough for Steve to make out the color; gets right up in Steve’s face and sneers, “Looks like we got ourselves a couple of queers to smear.”

Really? Steve thinks. We’re doing playground games right now? He folds his arms over his chest, flattens his voice; disinterested. “Do you have somewhere else to be?”

Eddie smokes his cigarette, and the smoke curls around them in short, unsteady puffs.

The guy snarls, “Do you?”

Beside him, his friend’s hands ball up in fists. A vicious voice in Steve’s head whispers: plant your fucking feet.

“Nah,” Steve answers. He takes a step in front of Eddie; widens his stance, digs his heels into the mulch. Slight crouch; deep breath. “Think I’m right where I need to be.”

“Fuckin’ freak,” the guy spits at the ground. He sways and pivots just a little, like maybe he’s about to slither back off to wherever he came from. Or maybe he’s about to throw his full weight into a swing.

Eddie’s breath whistles. His nose still healing from the break. “Seriously, man,” he tries as he drops the cigarette, crushing the butt under his boot. His voice is thin; hands up; don’t shoot. “Just- just fuck off, alright? We don’t want any—”

The first punch is slow. Sloppy. Steve sees it coming and dips low to dodge, and the jab cracks against the tree, spraying ice and splintered bark, the sound sharp in his good ear. It’s a plate over his head; it’s Billy cackling while the world dims, and Steve sees fucking red. Tastes metal and acid and rot, and all his ghosts are with him; all of Eddie’s, too. Hargrove, and Andy, and Jason fucking Carver; all the faceless specters of whoever pummeled him that night at the bar, whoever dared to lay a finger on him when Steve wasn’t there to be a shield.

But he’s here now, and his answering punch lands hard — sickening crunch as his uppercut connects with the kid’s ribs, knocks the wind out of him. The guy grunts and doubles over, but he gets in a good swing on the way down.

Steve tastes blood at the edge of his lip.

Someone grabs him by the collar.

One of the guy’s friends, freezing fingers pawing at his shoulder, at his throat, and he pulls back hard until his shirt rips at the neckline and frees him from the hold. Ducks again to dodge a blow, swivels and pops discount Rob Lowe right under the chin.

The kid’s teeth clack together as he bites his own tongue. Steve watches his head fly back like it’s about to fall off — like a ragdoll, like a bobblehead, like it’s happening in slow motion. He collapses on the sidewalk and cracks his head against the bricks, and he's down, he's out, but there’s two more still coming, one in front and one on Steve's right, and that one looks tall and broad enough to do some real damage.

Steve squares his shoulders; braces himself for another concussion, because this is— fuck, is the guy on the ground bleeding?

This is bad.

This is really bad.

And then he hears it.

A familiar thwick, a metallic slice through the sudden stillness in the air as Eddie pulls his knife out of his boot and flicks it open.

"Back the fuck off!" he growls; lunges forward with the blade and stabs at empty air, the metal gleaming like an oath. His expression is wild, sweat on his lip and at his temples, bangs sticking to his brow.

Steve spits blood onto the concrete.

Everyone backs the fuck off.

��

"Holy shit," Eddie pants as they haul ass out of the lot. Fingers trembling on the steering wheel, knee jiggling so badly it jangles all his pins and chains. His whole body is shaking. The radio is off.

In the rearview, Steve gets a glimpse of their attackers dragging their limp friend by the armpits through a snowy flowerbed. He thinks he sees a streak of blood.

“Did you know them?” he asks, his eyes glued to the reflection.

Eddie rolls the next three stop signs.

“No,” he finally says. Swallows hard in the simmering quiet. “They were just some guys.”

—

part 53

tag list in separate reblogs under '#trailer park steve au taglist' if you'd like to filter that content. if you want to be added please comment and let me know (must be over 21; please either verify in the comment or have your age visible on your blog)

[lovelytsunoda]

uptown girl // mickey "fanboy" garcia

soft kisses shared in the bar light after a game of pool

she would do anything for her nerd boy. except maybe meet his friends in a crowded bar with a pool table where she can make a fool of herself in front of all of her boyfriend's friends. it's a good thing that mickey is a good teacher.

pairing: mickey "fanboy" garcia x female! reader

author's note: he had like four lines and i was prepared to go to war for this man.

the hard deck hummed with activity as she parked her car, flicking off the manual headlights before glancing at her phone, which was pinned to it's magnetic holder on the dashboard.

it wasn't too late to text mickey and tell him something had come up, was it?

as she was thinking it, as if mickey could hear her, her phone buzzed, the screen lighting up with a text message from her beloved.

mickey: hey sweet girl, are you almost here? everyone is so excited to meet you!

she sighed, switching the music off and cutting the engine, sitting in the dark car and waiting for the heated seat to lose its warmth. her relationship with mickey garcia was still very new.

they had only been together for a few months, having met at an eighties rock-and-glow dance night. she was standing by the stage, dressed in skinny jeans and a white t-shirt that glowed fluorescent in the blacklight, an old-timey glass sprite bottle in her hands as she sang bonnie tyler at the top of her lungs. he was the best dancer there, with a goofy personality that captivated her from the moment he grabbed her hand and pulled her into a slow dance to 'heaven in your eyes'.

deciding to rip the band-aid off, she grabbed her tote bag from the passenger seat and slipped out of the car, sea breeze cutting deep and sending a chill down her spine as she walked up the weathered steps to fightertown's navy bar.

her sweet boy was impossible to miss, his smile lighting up the whole bar as he stood next to the pool table, his short-sleeved button shirt untucked from his crisp blue jeans.

as nervous as she was, it was hard not to smile when she saw him, watching as he leaned over the table to delicately knock a striped ball into one of the pockets in the corner of the table. after the shot, he looked up, and infectious grin breaking out over his face when he saw her.

"hey, pretty girl." he beamed, passing his pool cue to a woman in a black turtleneck and jeans before he sidestepped the table and pulled his lover into an embrace. "i'm glad you came."

"hi, mickey." she smiled, kissing him softly. "i've missed you."

"are you ready to meet everyone? or do you want something to eat first? i can order you a plate of onion rings-"

she laughed softly, taking his hand in hers. she loved how attentive and sweet he was, always trying to dote on her whenever he could. when they were together, he hated letting her pay for things, even if it meant dipping into his not-enormous navy salary "mickey, it's okay. i have time to meet your friends before i order."

with a soft kiss to the side of her head, mickey looped his arm around her shoulders and they headed towards the pool table. "guys, this is y/n. my girlfriend."

she underestimated how much her heart would swell at hearing mickey say those words. hearing someone declare to the world that they had chosen her.

"y/n, this is natasha, jake, robert, bradley, hallie and javy."

"hello!" she squeaked, waving at the group. "nice to finally meet you guys, mickey has told me so much about you guys."

robert laughed, reaching out to shake her hand. "and mickey has told us even more about you. fanboy loves to talk."

she never though she'd meet someone who talked as much as she did until she met mickey. they could talk for hours, about anything and everything. when they were together, she suspected it would drive the people around them insane. except she didn't know how his friends would react, what they would think of her.

they made small talk for a little, while some of the guys and natasha all took their turns at the pool table. it was team game, although the teams seemed to be a little unbalanced in terms of skill level. mickey had pulled her into his lap, gently rubbing circles on the skin underneath her peasant top.

jake leaned over the table, his pool cue hitting the white ball, white harmlessly dusted the side of the ball he was aiming for, plunking down in the basket.

"god damn it, hangman!" javy groaned

natasha laughed, high-fiving bradley. "sucks to suck, bagman!"

mickey shifted in his chair, hands running up her sides. "our turn, pretty girl. do you want to try?"

she turned back to him, a small glint of panic in her eyes as she took his hand in hers. "i'm not very good."

bradley snorted, taking a sip of his budweiser. "we're miles ahead of hangman, you could break the table and we'd still be ahead of them."

"go on." mickey encouraged, pressing a soft kiss to her shoulder blade. "i'll guide you."

she stood up, still clutching his hand in hers as she moved towards the pool table. hallie passed her a pool cue, and she stood nervously by the table until mickey came up behind her. his hands were warm through her jeans, his back against hers as he guided her into the correct position.

"you got this, sweet girl." he said quietly, kissing the side of her head gently, his hands over hers on the cue. "it's a straight shot into the basket."

mickey stepped back, his hands still on her waist as she took the shot, hitting with just enough force for the white ball to send the orange solid ball into the basket.

one fell swoop.

mickey's side of the pool table started to cheer, and her cheeks flushed pink as she turned around to wrap her arms around mickey, hiding her face from the crowd.

"great job, my darling girl." mickey laughed, kissing her softly. "are you sure you haven't played pool before."

"my grandfather had a table in his basement." she said sheepishly, leaning the cue against the table to she could slip her hands into mickey's back pockets. "but i haven't played a proper game since I was twelve. he sold the table when they sold the house."

"maybe you'll have to play more often." mickey said, leaning in to kiss her softly. "i love you."

"i love you too."

@magnummagnussen @libraryofloveletters @thatsdemko @lorarri @sidcrosbyspuck @cartierre @httpiastri

[forever-rogue]

bestie I have another fic idea I'm too lazy to write 😂

how about reader just moved into the trailer park and they live alone except for a dog (preferably large bc my fur babies are big too 🥺) and Eddie sees them playing outside when he's getting into/out of his van but then the dog runs towards him and tackles him and licks his face and stuff and that's how he and reader meet and become friends 😍 also wayne says he doesn't want the dog inside his trailer but eventually he and the pup become best friends (like all other reluctant dads who say they don't want a dog 😂) and they keep each other company while Eddie and reader are at school. something soft and fluffy please madame ily endlessly 🥺🥰

AN | You always have the best ideas, my love! And this is just too cute 🥺🥰

Warnings | Language

Pairing | Eddie x Fem!Reader

Word Count | 3.1k

Masterlist | Main, Eddie 

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

You were new in the neighborhood - if you could even call the trailer park as such. But you liked the place for now, and everyone you’d encountered so far was nothing but friendly and kind. It was much more than you had expected. 

There was, however, one neighbor you hadn’t met yet; the trailer across and one over. You knew it was occupied because you’d noticed two vehicles coming and going. Maybe one day you’d meet your mysterious new neighbors…maybe you’d even make them a nice, fresh plate of cookies.

Your thoughts, and staring out of the window, were interrupted with a big lick across your cheek. You blinked a few times before laughing fondly and looking down to find your best boy, Pancakes, standing there with his tail wagging. You scratched his ears, before leaning down to press a kiss to his snout. 

“What?” you asked when he nudged your hand with his nose, huffing playfully, “you wanna go outside and play?”

He perked up as soon as he heard the play, already on the way to the door. You grabbed his ball and frisbee, and followed him outside. 

Pancakes led the way into the fading late afternoon sun, softly barking to encourage you to hurry up. You shook your head fondly at him; he really was your best friend and had been through so many tough times but also so many good times. You wouldn't have changed it for the world. 

"Ready?" you really didn't even need to ask, the excitement evident through his body. You showed him the ball before tossing it to the other side of what would be considered your yard. He ran off eagerly, almost falling over his own feet, "careful, silly boy!"

He barked, almost as if he was talking back before bringing the ball back to you. You were in your own little world, you didn't notice that for the first time you were able to catch a glimpse of your neighbor.

Eddie Munson stepped out of his van and landed on his feet with a small oof. You'd immediately caught his attention and he couldn't help but stare at you. He'd wondered who had moved into the trailer near his, but he hadn't quite expected it to be you. You were breathtaking and magnetic, reeling him in like a moth to a flame. 

But it wasn't you that noticed him first - it was Pancakes. The big, fluffy dark haired dog zoned in on Eddie right away, dropping his ball before running over to the boy. You didn't realize what was going on until you turned around and saw the dog running happily.

"Pancakes!" you groaned as you chased after him, "Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes! Stop!"

But you never stood a chance; once your dog had made his mind up, there was no stopping him. He bounded up to the boy and jumped up onto him, trying to lick his face and get all the pets.

"Hi buddy," you winced at how sweet the boy sounded despite almost getting knocked over by your dog, "you just want all the pets, huh?"

"Pancakes!" you stood in front of him and gave him the most stern voice you could, "get down! You can't just maul our neighbors with love. You gotta make friends first!"

"Did you just say…Pancakes?" the boy’s curly head whipped in your direction as he studied you with a curious expression. The dog finally calmed down and jumped off him, instead circling and nuzzling his legs. 

“Y-yeah,” you admitted with a sheepish little smile, “his name is Pancakes. Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes when he’s being naughty. Such as now.”

You attempted to give him a stern glare, but didn’t have it in your heart. As soon as he looked back at you with those big, soft brown eyes, any annoyance instantly went away. Little did you know that the boy in front of you would have a similar effect on you in the future.

“That’s rad,” oh. He had a very nice smile, all toothy, dimple-displaying, and magical. He reached down to give Pancakes from scratches, cooing softly at the big dog, “he’s cool. You must be too if he's your dog. You just moved in, right?”

“Yeah,” your face warmed up under his gaze and you felt the desire to hide your face, “a few weeks ago. I was wondering when we’d finally meet actually. I’ve met everyone else here.”

“Yeah?” he asked as you nodded. He held out his hand, and you had to bite your cheek to keep from completely losing it. He had nice fucking hands, “funny, I was just wondering the same thing about you. I’m Eddie. Munson. Eddie Munson.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Eddie Munson,” you let his larger hand engulf yours as you gave him a firm shake and told him your name, “and you’ve met Pancakes, obviously. Sorry about him - he’s just such a lover and thinks everyone wants to be his friend.”

“Well, he’s very smart because I do want to be his friend,” he grinned, bending down to scratch his chest as Pancakes nuzzled into his touch, “yeah, you’re a good boy, huh?”

“He’s the best,” you agreed softly, “but I might be biased.”

“Nah,” Eddie shook his head, “hey, it was nice to meet you, and I’d really love to stay, but I have a meeting I need to get to. I’m sorry.”

“Oh no, Eddie, there’s no need to apologize,” you insisted, sad to see him go even though you’d known him for a total of about five minutes, “really. And I apologize again for his very…boisterous introduction.”

“No need to apologize,” he echoed your words with the most sincere smile, “hey - see you around? Soon I hope…”

“Yeah,” you nodded, probably more eagerly than you should have, “I hope so too, Eddie. Hey - one sec! What’s your favorite type of cookie?”

“Chocolate chip,” he beamed brightly, making your knees weak, “chocolate chip.”

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

That was the day you’d met Eddie Munson, and as you would later on realize, fell in love with him. 

He’d made good on his promise to see you again soon, sheepishly knocking on your door. The timing was immaculate, as you’d just finished up putting together a plate of freshly baked cookies for him. You’d let him, he’d munched on the cookies, and Pancakes reaped the rewards of getting to go on a walk with both of you. 

He’d always been friendly with other people, but he’d never been as friendly with anyone so much as Eddie. It was like he’d picked out his other person, and neither of you knew it at the time. 

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

“Pancakes!” you groaned at yourself for dropping his leash, but either way you knew you were no match for his excitement. When he made up his mind on something, his mind was made up. And right now, he really wanted to go and see his favorite people - the Munsons, “Pancakes, you can’t just let yourself in!”

You ran after him to the Munsons’ trailer, but by the time you caught up, he was already pushing his way inside, nudging the screen door open with his head. You shook your head in exasperation as you rapped your knuckles on the door and let yourself in, although announcing yourself was unnecessary.

“Hi sweetheart,” you heard Eddie’s warm voice before you saw him, quickly wrapped up in his arms as you squealed in delight. He peppered your face in kisses as Pancakes excitedly sniffed around for anything that had changed since the last time he was there…which was yesterday, “oh, how I’ve missed you beautiful girl.”

“It’s been less than twenty-four hours,” you couldn’t help but smile at him, leaning up to press a kiss to his cheek, “but I missed you too, Eddie bear.”

Pancakes made a small sound, almost as if trying to make sure you didn’t forget he was there, and rubbed against his leg. Without skipping a beat, Eddie leaned down to kiss the top of the dog’s head, “hello to you too, good boy.”

“I’m almost ready to go, just running a few behind,” he grimaced slightly and gave you a meek little smile. You shook your head and touched his cheek, nudging him in the direction of his bedroom, “you’re the best babe. Most metal ever.”

“Hush,” yeah, you really loved this man. He quickly ducked down the hall, Pancakes trailing after him. It was then that Wayne came in and shook his head in amusement at the sight of you. 

“Am I watching that rotten scoundrel of a dog again tonight?” There was no malice behind his words, affection lacing them as he made himself comfortable in his recliner. 

“You don’t have to do that, Wayne,” you promised softly, going into the small kitchenette to pour him a cup of coffee. That man could drink coffee at any time of day, “I was going to leave him at mine. I don’t want to always stick you with him; he can deal with one night alone.”

“No, no,” he shook his head and you turned around to grab a mug, a knowing little smile on your face. Despite his grumblings and protests, you knew it was all a front. He’d initially been hesitant to allow the big dog inside the trailer, but after their initial meeting, you knew that the two were like peas in a pod. You saw the affectionate way Wayne was with Pancakes, and you’d caught them more than a few times, asleep on the couch together, which if you ever called him out on it he would vehemently deny, “the dog can stay here, it’ll be warm anyway.”

“If you insist,” you brought him his cup of brew, “I know better than to argue with a Munson man.”

“Thank you darling,” he gratefully took the warm cup, “don’t know what my nephew did to deserve you, but damn he did something right.”

“Very funny,” you teased, knowing full well that he was only joking.

“Yeah, Eddie’s a good boy,” he nodded gruffly, “he deserves happiness, and to feel cared for. You’ve done a good job of that; the boy’s smitten with you. Just…don’t break his heart, that’s all I’m asking of you.”

“I would never,” you promised softly, “I would never. He means way too much to me.”

“You’re good kids,” the corners of his mouth turned ever so slightly as Pancakes came over to him, lying down at his feet, “and he’s a good one too…I guess.”

You said nothing, but your smile said it all. Almost as if his ears were burning Eddie popped out of his bedroom and started to pad down the hallway. He didn’t stop until he was at your side, putting an arm around your shoulders as he greeted his uncle, “I see you’ve got your best friend hanging out tonight.”

“Don’t start with me boy,” he waved him off, “I tolerate him at best. You two better get going now, don’t want you coming back too late and waking me up.”

“Alright old man,” Eddie snorted in amusement, “we’ll see you later. Come on sweetheart, we should let these two have their fun.”

“Let’s go,” you agreed, taking his hand and lacing your fingers together, “behave while we’re gone!”

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

“What?” you were sitting across from Eddie, on a big blanket outside of Lover’s Lake. He’d suggested coming out here after your dinner and movie date night, and you weren’t about to say no. It had been a wonderful evening, that had found you sitting cross-legged across from the pretty boy, looking at the stars and talking about anything and everything that crossed your minds. It was one of the many things you loved about him.

“What do you mean what?” he teased softly, reaching over and playing with a lock of your hair. You playfully rolled your eyes before wrapping your fingers around his wrist and bringing his hand to your mouth and pressing a gentle kiss to his knuckles. You swore you could hear him sighing wistfully.

“What’re you staring at me for?” you gently pushed his hand back towards him, “is there something on my face?”

“Yes,” he answered seriously, causing you to drag your fingertips along the contours of your face. He laughed, that beautiful, magical sound you loved so much before pulling your hand away from your face, “only beauty. You’re so fuckin’ beautiful.”

“Stop,” you couldn’t help the bashful expression that crossed your face as you tried to hide your face. But he kept you from hiding your face by gently pulling your hands away, “Eddie.”

“I mean it,” he smiled softly, clutching your hand tightly in one of his, “you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”

"So dramatic," you tried to play off his affections, but it was no use. You knew he meant it and that he'd never let you forget, "just for the record, I think you're very beautiful too."

"Flatterer," he sighed but there was a tinge of pink that rose up in his cheeks that you could see even in the faint moonlight, "good for you that it's working."

You couldn't stop yourself from leaning over and pressing a kiss to his soft, plush lips. His hand found the back of your neck and he held you close, thumb gently stroking along your jaw, "I love you."

Your lips parted as your mouth formed a small o in surprise. You knew he loved you, of course you did, but neither of you had said those three little words out loud before. He must have panicked from your lack of response because his pretty brown eyes grew wide and he pulled back with a nervous expression on his face, "I-I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that. I didn't mean to-"

“Say it again,” your eyes were wide and innocent, searching his as a timid smile grew on his face, “please.”

“I love you,” he repeated softly, his smile growing with each passing second.

“I love you,” as soon as words left your mouth, Eddie’s expression shifted and his whole face lit up with happiness. His large hands found your face and he gently stroked your cheek, “don’t look at me like that.”

“Like what?” he traced his thumb along your bottom lip, tilting his head to the side and looking at you more like a puppy than anything else, “like you’re something precious that deserves to be loved?”

“Yeah,” you chuckled nervously, but he cut you off with a soft kiss, pushing away any remaining doubts and worries you had. When he pulled back you nodded softly, “something like that.”

“Well you are,” he settled his hands on your hips and gently pulled you into his lap, “and I’ll make sure you always know that.”

“You already do,” you wrapped your arms around his neck and leaned in to nudge your nose against, “every day. I can only hope to do the same for you.”

“Trust me,” he agreed, “you and Pancakes.”

“I knew it,” you couldn’t help the bits of laughter that bubbled up as he offered you a crooked, dopey little smile, “I knew you only liked me because of my dog.”

“I mean, I did meet him first-”

“He almost mowed you down,” you reminded him, “and covered you in dog slobber!”

“It was all out of affection,” he insisted, causing you to scoff slightly, “I didn’t mind. Besides, it allowed me to meet you.”

“You would have met me either way,” you gently poked his side, causing him to squirm as he giggled, “I was going to come over and introduce myself anyway. Cookies and all - you only got to choose because I had the opportunity to meet you first.”

“Because of Pancakes!”

“Because of…” you put a finger to his lips, but he simply pressed a kiss to it, “because of fate. We were meant to meet and we would have done it either way!”

“He just helped it along,” oh, he loved pushing your buttons, “that’s all.”

“I’m starting to wonder if you just love me for my dog.”

“Absolutely not,” he insisted firmly, “I love you most of all, more than anything. Everything else is just a bonus.”

“Good,” you hugged him as tightly as you could, “now you may kiss me all you want.”

“I like the sound of that!”

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

By the time the two of you got home it was late; later than you had expected to get back, so it wasn’t a surprise that you found Wayne on the couch, fast asleep and snoring lightly. The TV was still on playing some random movie, but the best part of all was Pancakes, curled up on the couch next to Wayne, his head resting on his leg and Wayne’s arm draped over his side. 

You and Eddie exchanged a knowing little look but remained silent as he went to turn off the TV and you grabbed a blanket to gently cover them up. Despite his initial reluctance to having the big dog in his home, complaining about him being too big, too messy, too much of a nuisance, all of that had quickly melted away once he’d met the dog. 

From then on, the two of them had been thick as thieves, although Wayne would never admit that. Wayne Munson wasn’t a dog person, nope…definitely not. When anyone else was around. He often volunteered to watch Pancakes when you were at school at the local college and Eddie finished up his final senior year. He insisted that the dog wouldn’t like being alone so much, but you knew that the two of them had formed some sort of special bond. You loved the way you had easily fallen into life with the Munsons.

“Do you think we should wake them up?” you looked over at Eddie who shook his head in amusement.

“Nah,” he grinned, “I think the two of them look pretty damn comfortable. Let them sleep.”

“Yeah,” you took his hand and started to pull towards his bedroom, “maybe we should do the same thing.”

“You want to sleep?” he raised an eyebrow suggestively as you shrugged innocently, “tired, pretty girl?”

“I didn’t say that,” you grinned as pressed some big, smacking kisses to his cheeks, “I love you, Eddie.”

“I love you, sweetheart,” he closed his bedroom behind him and watched happily as you made yourself comfortable on his bed, “so much.”

[vexic929]

Strike Three, You're In

Chapter 1

Warnings: none

"Come on, ladies! Let's go, let's go!" Coach Simmons bellowed from the sidelines, pacing with her hands on her hips, her ponytail swishing behind her.

Bailey stood near the dugout adjusting her helmet as she watched her teammates on the field. The Central City Stars were leading by a single run, the energy was high and the game could turn at any moment.

"You're up, Bails," Dani, the catcher, said with a grin, nudging her shoulder. "No pressure, though. Just, you know - win the game for us, yeah?"

Bailey rolled her eyes, laughing. "Oh, just that?" She took a few practice swings, trying to shake off the growing nerves. Her eyes flickered to the stands where she saw Joe waving, his broad grin catching her attention.

"You got this, Bails!" Joe called out, his voice carrying across the field. "Knock it out of the park!"

Bailey gave him a thumbs-up feeling a warmth in her chest. Barry and Iris were missing the game but Joe was here and that was enough for her. She knew the particle accelerator launch was a huge deal and Barry had been buzzing about it for weeks. Still, she couldn't help but wish her brother and Iris were in the stands too.

As the game continued, Dani jogged back to her place behind the plate and Bailey stepped into the batter's box, locking eyes with the pitcher. The tension was palpable but she felt confident. The first pitch came in fast but her bat connected with a solid crack. The ball sailed toward the outfield and Bailey sprinted down the baseline, her cleats digging into the dirt as the crowd cheered.

She rounded first, pushing herself toward second base. As she slid into second, safe, she popped up with a grin, brushing the dirt from her pants. The game was going well and everything seemed perfect for a moment.

But just as she finished dusting herself off, she spotted Joe standing up from his seat, answering a phone call. Her heart sank a little as she saw the shift in his expression - serious, focused. She knew that look.

Joe caught her eye and mouthed, 'work. Gotta go.' He gave her an apologetic look and held up his phone before hurrying out of the stands, waving goodbye as he left.

Bailey's heart dipped in disappointment, though she tried not to let it show. She understood Joe's job was important but it was the last game of the season and she'd really wanted him to see her finish it out. She swallowed hard, forcing herself to stay in the zone.

"Keep your head in the game, Allen!" Coach Simmons yelled, clapping her hands from the third-base line.

Bailey took a deep breath and nodded, adjusting her ponytail.

As the next batter stepped up to the plate, the air seemed to shift. The wind began to pick up, cold and sharp, swirling around the field in an unnatural way. Bailey glanced up, noticing the sky had darkened, thick clouds rolling in faster than she'd ever seen.

Coach Simmons followed her gaze, frowning deeply. "That storm's moving in quick...but it's not supposed to rain tonight."

As if on cue, the stadium lights flickered, sending a murmur of unease through the crowd. The wind howled louder and Bailey's unease grew. Her heart pounded in her chest as she watched the sky swirl. Something wasn't right. She could barely hear her coach call for a timeout.

The lights above the field suddenly blew out with a sharp pop, plunging the stadium into darkness. At the same time, across the city, a bright light flashed on the horizon followed by an earth-shuddering boom.

Coach Simmons was quick to act, her voice straining to be heard over the ensuing commotion. "Everyone off the field! Move, now!"

Bailey ran toward the dugout, her breath coming in quick, panicked bursts. Her mind wasn't on the game anymore - it was on Barry. He'd been so excited about the accelerator launch. He was supposed to be there for the big moment. If that explosion was what she thought it was-

As she reached the dugout, her eyes darted to the dark clouds swirling overhead. Lightning crackled, striking dangerously close and she felt a chill run down her spine.

"Joe left, I need to-" Bailey started but Coach Simmons already had her hand on her shoulder, steering her to her Jeep.

"I’ll drive you home. Come on, kiddo."

Bailey barely registered Coach Simmons' words, her mind spinning as fast as the storm overhead. The suddenness of the explosion, the strange storm, and the absence of Barry, Joe, and Iris all collided in her thoughts. The feeling in her gut told her this wasn’t just a freak accident.

She climbed into Coach Simmons' Jeep, her hands trembling as she fumbled with the seatbelt. The roar of the storm filled the silence between them, the wind howling and rattling the windows as Coach started the engine.

"I think that explosion was the particle accelerator," Bailey blurted out, her voice tight with worry. "Barry was supposed to be there. What if he- what if something happened to him?"

Coach Simmons gave her a sideways glance, her face softening with concern. "We don't know anything yet, okay? Let's not jump to conclusions. Right now, I'm getting you home safe - then we can figure out what's going on."

Bailey nodded but her mind refused to settle. Her fingers drummed anxiously against her leg as they drove, the city streets eerily quiet for a Friday night. The occasional flash of lightning illuminated the darkened roads and every rumble of thunder made Bailey flinch. Her thoughts kept drifting back to the accelerator, to Barry, and to the gut-wrenching fear that something had gone horribly, horribly wrong.

As they pulled into her street, Bailey's heart sank. The power was out here too. Streetlights, traffic signals - everything was dark. Coach Simmons parked in front of the house, turning to Bailey with a serious expression.

"Call your brother as soon as you get inside, alright? And if you need anything, call me. I'm right down the road, I can be here whenever."

Bailey swallowed hard, giving a quick nod as she unbuckled her seatbelt. "Thanks, Coach. I will."

She stepped out of the Jeep and rushed up to the front door, her heart thudding in her chest. The house was quiet, too quiet. Joe wasn't back yet and there was no sign of Barry or Iris. She fumbled for her phone, her hands shaking as she scrolled to Barry's number and pressed 'call'.

The phone rang. Once. Twice.

No answer.

Bailey's heart sank further and she tried again. This time it went straight to voicemail.

"Barry, where are you? Please, call me back when you get this," she said, trying to keep her voice steady despite the panic clawing at her. "I saw the explosion. I just...I need to know you're okay. Love you."

She hung up, staring down at the phone as though it might suddenly come to life with an answer. She tried to calm herself down as she scrolled to Iris's number. If the precinct had called Joe in maybe they'd called Barry too, it would make sense that he couldn't answer.

She pressed the call button next to Iris's picture but her heart sank as it rang and rang only to go to voicemail just like Barry's.

"Iris, it's me. I don't know where you are but I'm um...I'm kinda freaking out. Please, call me back when you get this. I-I need to know what's going on."

Bailey hung up and sat hard on the sofa, still covered in dirt and rainwater, her mind racing. She was cold but she barely noticed the chill seeping through her softball uniform as her thoughts spiraled. What if something happened to all of them? The storm, the explosion, Joe's sudden work call - none of it felt right. The entire city was plunged into darkness and it felt like the world had shifted in some impossible way.

She sat in the dark living room, the silence loud in her ears. The only sounds were the occasional rumble of thunder, the soft patter of rain against the window, her foot tapping, and the steady dripping of rainwater from her jacket onto the floor. She kept glancing down at her phone, hoping that either Barry or Iris would call her back. That Joe would come through the front door, telling her everything was fine.

But the minutes dragged on and no one came.

[darlingvernon]

you've got mail! | 03.

Author: darlingvernon (prev nonrevblr)

Pairing: Chwe Hansol x Fem Reader

Genre: strangers to lovers, college au, penpal au

Rating: 18+

Warnings: swearing

Word Count: 4,791

Description: The concept of Equivalent Exchange is not foreign to you, and since you need Jeonghan to participate in a Social Experiment for your Psych Thesis, you inevitably have to participate in his too. It isn’t the walk in the park you thought it would be, especially when your penpal Vernon keeps knocking down the walls that you’ve built; scratching an itch you couldn’t reach.

Author's Note: i'm so sorry this took so long! i had a couple of other projects before i could finish it. i am... not entirely happy with it because i was working another fic with a different writing concept so i think i lost the writing style near the end there. anyhow, i'm still putting it out because if i touch it anymore i'll end up scrapping it. hopefully, you guys enjoy it. please, let me know what you think! happy reading!

This place is one of your absolute favourites. 

The hole-in-the-wall cafe, Casa Mia, is only a couple of blocks from campus and you stumbled upon it one day when you were out on a walk with Jeonghan. The exposed bricks paired with the mason jar pendant lights give it a rustic feel and with the added touch of mismatched tables and chairs, it nevers fails to make you feel at home and cosy.

On one end, the wall is lined up with shelves from the floor to the ceiling and filled with a random assortment of books from The Aneid by Virgil to Eragon by Christopher Paolini. The next book on your reading list is The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, which is just on the shelf over from where you’re sitting. 

However, right now you’re balls deep into Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet instead, sitting across from Wonwoo and his thick rimmed glasses, nose buried in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The pair of you have been grouped together for your English Literature report on ‘Romance: Comedy vs Tragedy’ and this beautiful Friday morning, is one of the only days you both have available to meet up.

“Are you still reading?” Wonwoo questions, sitting back as he stretches his limbs. “Or have the words started to blend together to you, like they have for me?”

“Neither,” you answer truthfully. “I’ve been a little…”

“Distracted?” Wonwoo offers, smirking when your eyes go wide, like a deer caught in headlights. “You’ve been on the same page for some time now and your eyes keep drifting towards your laptop.”

Placing a hand on your chest, you feign offense. “Jeon Wonwoo, have you been watching me?” you ask, scandalised.

Wonwoo rolls his eyes, laughing at your antics. “Just watching to see if I’m going to be left to do all the work,” he jokingly accuses, and earns himself a smack on the arm. 

“I would never.”

“Yeah, I know.”

“Sorry, I’ve just got a lot on my plate with my stupid Psych Thesis,” you explain, but don’t divulge any further. It’s not a lie that your thesis is laborious, but he doesn’t need to know that the real reason you’re distracted is because you’re itching to see the reply from your penpal.

Wonwoo nods, accepting your answer. “I can imagine,” he hums, “Jeonghan seems to be stressed about it, too. He was complaining about having to go out on all of these blind dates. Though, he did come home with a little skip in his step last night.”

This piece of information perks you up but you try to be subtle about it, knowing Jeonghan would kick your ass if he finds out you’ve been prying about him behind his back. “Oh, really?” you ask, nonchalant. “Did he say anything about it last night?”

Just as Wonwoo’s about to answer, your phone vibrates incessantly on the table, interrupting him.

“It’s almost like he knows that we’re talking about him.” You shake your head, turning to face the phone towards Wonwoo so he can see that Jeonghan is ringing you. “What do you want, you heathen?” you answer the call.

“You ungrateful brat,” Jeonghan bristles on the other line. “Is this how you say thank you after I went on that date for you last night?”

You roll your eyes even though you know he can’t see you. “I’m pretty sure that you’re the one who’s meant to be thanking me,” you remark, snidely. “Wonwoo said— ow!” You shoot Wonwoo a glare after he lightly kicks you on the shin.

The other line goes quiet and you almost think that Jeonghan’s hung up until he quietly asks, “What did he say?”

Across from you, Wonwoo’s hand gestures closing the zip of his mouth, before joining his hands together in prayer, begging for you to spare him. Considering you still need him for your English Literature report, you do just that and throw yourself into Jeonghan’s hellfire instead. “If I shout coffee for the next two weeks, will you spare him?” You tempt the demon. “I need him to finish his end of this Shakespeare report before you off him.”

“I’ll see you soon,” Jeonghan smugly accepts your bribe and hangs up.

Slowly, you gather your belongings, shoving them in your bag as you prepare to make your way to the library to meet Jeonghan, making sure to kick Wonwoo in the shin as a payback.

“What was that for?” He glares, rubbing his aching leg.

“It’s your fault that I owe him,” you huff. “Don’t even think of making funeral arrangements until you’ve finished your share of our assignment.”

“My fault?!” Wonwoo’s mouth gapes at you. “You’re the one that almost sent me to an early grave. I haven’t even met the Hermia to my Lysander yet. I’m never sharing any more ammunition against Jeonghan with you ever again.”

“You wouldn’t dare,” you challenge. “Don’t make me go Tybalt on your ass.”

Rolling his eyes, Wonwoo grabs your laptop for you. “How about a truce?” he suggests as he hands you the device. “We can both take Jeonghan down together.”

“Sounds like a plan.” You thank him. “I’ll send you my half of the report in a couple of days. See you later, Wonu.”

Waving in farewell, Wonwoo watches as you exit the cafe and head over to meet your doom.

Some might wonder why you would bother to go to Brew’d, the campus cafe, when you can easily purchase coffee at the cafe you were just at, but nobody knows Jeonghan as well as you do. Even though he only ever orders an Iced Americano, he swears only Brew’d makes it well and he’s sure to complain your ear off if you thought otherwise. 

“I didn’t think I’d see you here today,” Joshua comments as you approach the counter, punching in your usual order in the register.

With a sigh, you hand over the money required for the purchase. “I could say the same for you,” you reply, shoving your wallet back in your purse. “You don’t usually work Fridays, right?”

“Don’t get me started.” Joshua rolls his eyes and heads over to the coffee machine to start on your drinks, with you following. “I had to cover because someone called in. At least it’s a short shift and I finish in about half an hour.”

“I’m jealous.” You pout. “I have another couple of hours with Jeonghan and this stupid thesis before I go to work.”

“Eww.” Joshua wrinkles his nose in disgust. “Too bad we don’t sell any vodka here. I could’ve added some in your coffee to help.”

“Joshua, did I ever tell you that you are my favourite?” you declare, touched. “It’s the thought that counts. Also, don’t tell Jeonghan about you being my favourite.”

Joshua laughs as he hands you the drinks. “Of course, I have to tell him,” he scoffs. “That demon needs to be taken down a peg or two.”

“Okay, I take it back. You’re no longer my favourite.”

“No take backsies!”

“Boo!”

Rolling his eyes, Joshua gently ushers you out of the cafe. “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to be dressed up at your funeral,” he remarks, bidding you farewell from the door.

“I’m going to haunt you!” you yell, not bothering to look back to see his reaction as you quickly make your way to the library, hoping to have a few minutes to yourself before Jeonghan gets there to view your pen pal’s reply. 

Weaving your way expertly through the crowd, you reach your destination in no time, only to be disappointed when you find the hired study room still occupied. Lightly tapping on the glass to announce your arrival, the group of students give you an apologetic nod and start gathering their belongings.

“Well, you look like shit,” Jeonghan comments upon his arrival. 

“Is that what you said to yourself in the mirror this morning?” you retort. “Don’t make me throw your coffee in the trash.”

“Then I’d have to murder Wonwoo tonight. His blood will be on your hands, and the same goes for his part of the report.”

Rolling your eyes, you deliver the Iced Americano into his outstretched hand before entering the now empty study room. Sitting across from Jeonghan, you quickly unpack your belongings and get straight to the point. “So, how was last night?” you ask, voice ladened with genuine curiosity.

Jeonghan relaxes in his chair and contemplates your question for a moment. “I’ll give you the short version since you’ll get the long version in the report,” he starts, “but it was honestly a lot of fun. Stephanie was really sweet and adventurous and we went on almost every ride. That’s why we were late last night.”

“I did think you guys would get along,” you reveal. “I’m glad it worked out.”

Laughing, Jeonghan resumes his position with his laptop. “Same here.” He nods. “It would’ve put me off going into the other dates if it didn’t. Anyway, how did you go?”

“Surprisingly good,” you admit, knowing he would find out anyway. “Bands boy sure is interesting. Anything else you would like to clue me in about him?”

“Tsk tsk, _____,” Jeonghan teases and you want to lean forward and sock him straight in the face. “That isn’t how this works and you know it. Whatever you want to know about him, you can ask him yourself. I need this to be as organic as possible.”

Sighing, you turn your attention to your own laptop and bring it to life. “You’re no fun.”

“I’ll tell you everything you want to know once this social experiment is done,” he promises before adding, “if he hasn’t told you by then.”

Before you can utter a retort, the words ‘You’ve Got Mail!’ suddenly rings in the air. Without a care about what Jeonghan could be thinking right now, you open the email with haste, fingers fumbling over each other as you do so.

<To: Girl Magnetic> <From: Bands Boy> <Subject: Your Turn 12:10AM>

i finished my essay woo!

your move, girl magnetic

x sweet dreams

“Damn.” Jeonghan whistles. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you smile like that.”

“If you don’t shut the hell up,” you retort. “You’re the one lighting up this room brighter than the fluorescent light while you write that report.” Jeonghan is about to utter a comeback when you add, “By the way, I sorta promised to tell him the story behind Girl Magnetic and I wanted to ask you about it first because I wasn’t sure if it’s too much information.”

“Yes, it is,” Jeonghan agrees. “I’m sorry but you’ll have to offer him something else.”

Sighing, you nod in agreement and type out another apologetic reply. The sinking feeling in your gut of having to disappoint your pen pal is beyond unpleasant and you don’t want to make a habit of it. With a shake of your head, you rid yourself of the negative thoughts that are brewing in your mind, not wanting it to show in your message.

<To: Bands Boy> <From: Girl Magnetic> <Subject: Re: Your Turn 1:15pm>

nice work, bands boy! i’m super proud of you :) 

unfortunately i can’t tell you the story behind girl magnetic after all *siiiiiiigggghhhhhhh

jeonghan vetoed it. apparently it’ll reveal too much about me

but! he has given me permission to tell you all about it later on

i’m really sorry *cries

so in exchange, i’ll answer any other question (that doesn’t reveal too much about me) with no complaints! so hit me with your best shot!

regretfully, girl magnetic

You read through your letter once before sending it away, almost wishing you can reach through the screen just to take it back. The dread sets in and you sink down your chair, wanting the ground to swallow you up.

“God, stop being such a drama queen,” Jeonghan reprimands. “It’s just a delay in response, it’s really not a big deal. He won’t even bat an eye because you can still tell him something else.”

“Fuck you. Why do you have to be the voice of reason?”

“Isn’t that why I’m your best friend?” he asks rhetorically then proceeds to jab his index finger towards your laptop. “Now, hurry the fuck up because I need that report before you leave for work.”

Sitting up, you refer back to the blank document staring back at you and start writing your report, mumbling quietly to yourself about needing to find a new best friend. Jeonghan laughs and you know it’s because he thinks he’s a diamond in the rough and that you won’t find anyone else like him. Quite frankly, he’s right, but you won’t be the one to inflate his already huge ego.

Your allotted ‘thesis time’ concludes in a flash and you start gathering your belongings, preparing to make your way to your shift at the diner. Just like before, Jeonghan hands you a piece of paper, but this time it contains a question.

What is something you’re passionate about?

Staring at the piece of paper, you can’t help the laugh that escapes you. “Why is it so serious this time?” you question, a brow raised in confusion.

Jeonghan merely shrugs. “The topics will be a mixture of both easy and hard questions and will most likely alternate because I’m trying to see something. By the way, the reason I handed you the question this time is because I want you to initiate for this one.”

“Sounds good, I’ll get on it as soon as I get his reply,” you inform Jeonghan, shoving the note in your back pocket as you bid him farewell. “I’ll text you the details of your next date later!”

Meanwhile, Vernon lugs his tired body up the stairs of the frat house and deposits himself on the comforts of his bed. After a long day of classes, his plan was just to have a nap and relax for the rest of the night but unfortunately, his Music Theory professor had given his class another essay to complete. Pulling his phone out of his pocket, he quickly orders himself some takeout and decides to start working on his essay as he waits for his food to arrive.

Turning his laptop on, he’s surprised to find a reply from you waiting for him in his inbox. Honestly, when he found none as he checked this morning, he couldn’t help but feel a little disappointed. But, he quickly shut that down especially since he’s realised how busy you are. Nevertheless, seeing your pseudonym on his screen has given him the bout of energy he needs to get through his essay.

“Hansol, I’ve got your food,” Jeonghan calls out from the doorway, a plastic bag held hostage in his hand.

“Thanks,” Vernon replies as he walks towards the elder. “You here to give me the next question?”

Jeonghan shakes his head. “Nah, I want her to initiate this time because there’s something I’m trying to see. I’ve already given her the question and she’ll hit you up again after she finishes work.”

“Sounds good.” Vernon nods. “Is there anything else?”

“I vetoed her from telling you about Girl Magnetic” —Jeonghan rolls his eyes— “and before you start, I’m just delaying her from telling you. It’ll reveal too much and this experiment is just in its beginning stages! Instead, she’s giving you something else in return.”

“Fine.” Vernon pouts. “This all better be worth it.”

“Oh, trust me,” Jeonghan replies, smug. “You’ll be thanking me once this whole thing is done.”

Vernon watches as the elder retreats and shuts the door behind him none too gently. Only Jeonghan could walk into a room and suck all the happiness out of it. With a sigh, he opens your email, shoving pieces of chicken in his mouth as he reads through the words.

Your apologetic tone and regret is evident, even if you didn’t say so yourself. It makes Vernon want to forget the setback in your friendship, especially after speaking with Jeonghan, considering the matter is out of your hands. Besides, your counter offer is there, just as he was advised and it’s another offer that’s hard to pass up.

Taking a moment to himself, he sits back and tries to consider what question could give him as much satisfaction as the story behind Girl Magnetic would have given him. It doesn’t take him long to decide and he sends his reply back sooner rather than later since he’ll most likely be knee deep in his essay before long.

It’s well past dinner time by the time you arrive back in your dorm. Fridays are always the longest days on your schedule but you don’t mind it most of the time as it makes the weekend that much sweeter. Heading straight to the shower, you wash off the stress and tension in your body and prepare yourself for a relaxing night ahead.

It’s when you’re making yourself a cup of tea that your phone goes off with a notification from Jeonghan.

[9:00pm] thing 1: don’t forget to send me the details about my date tomorrow [9:00pm] thing 1: and don’t forget about your penpal

Sighing, you walk towards the couch where you unceremoniously threw your purse as soon as you arrived, fishing out the notepad that had the details of Jeonghan’s date on them.

[9:04pm] thing 2: you’re meeting patricia at mi casa for brunch at 11am [9:05pm] thing 2: and thanks for the reminder! [9:05pm] thing 2: i’ll get onto it now

Fetching your mug from the kitchen island, you make your way to the desk where the laptop is. Sighing, you take small sips of your tea, not in any hurry to read the email your pen pal has sent. Once you’ve finished the last drops of your drink, you know you can’t delay any further and opted to get the whole ordeal over and done with.

<To: Girl Magnetic> <From: Bands Boy> <Subject: Re: Your Turn 6:28pm>

don’t even sweat it! jeonghan explained everything to me. 

i don’t mind keeping the mystery about you for a bit longer, it’ll make getting to know you later even more interesting :)

another offer i can’t refuse? i think you’re spoiling me haha.

hm, well i’m plenty curious when it comes to you but let’s go with something easy.

what music are you into?

x bands boy

ps. jeonghan says you have the next question ready?

If you could describe your pen pal in one word, you would go with unpredictable. He never acts or reacts the way you expect him to and even his question is unexpected. But he’s right, it makes the whole thing rather interesting, and you find yourself plenty invested.

<To: Bands Boy> <From: Girl Magnetic> <Subject: Passion 9:03pm>

hey, b! 

(i hope this is okay, having to type out our full usernames all the time is so tiring T-T)

thank you for going easy on me haha

i’m honestly into most music, but my playlist is usually filled with your typical punk/emo/indie rock music lol. it’s probably not what you expected right? but i’m definitely not opposed to some carly rae jepsen or avril lavigne lol.

and yes! jeonghan has given me the next question which i spoilt in the title of the email:

what is something you’re passionate about?

i’ll go first!

my passion is… writing. this is also probably unexpected huh?

i’ve always been super into reading and always found myself daydreaming and imagining other ways stories could have gone and one day decided to put my thoughts onto paper and i’ve never looked back.

i can’t wait to hear about yours!

waiting patiently, g

Whoosh!

Biting your lip, you sit back and think about what just occurred. There’s not a lot of people who know that writing is what you’re truly passionate about and you’ve often held back on revealing that fact to anybody because of the sometimes negative reactions people have about the occupation. It surprises you that there was no sign of hesitation when it came to telling Bands Boy about it and you don’t know what to make of it.

Is it because you know that you have to be truthful, mostly anyway, for Jeonghan’s experiment to work? Or is it because Bands Boy is just somebody behind a screen, a complete stranger who you may never meet and therefore will never be able to tie this conversation back to you?

The only other possibility you can think of is that despite him being a stranger and despite the short amount of time you’ve known him, he’s managed to start breaking down the walls that you’ve carefully built around your heart. It’s scary to think about, especially with how careful you’ve been but you have too many things on your plate to worry about so you push it to the back of your mind.

It’s when Vernon was about to get up to grab a drink in the kitchen when his notification goes off, alerting him of your email. Desperate to quench his thirst for information more than his thirst for a drink, he settles back onto his gaming chair and opens your reply. The grin on his face grows at every line he reads and not wanting to waste a single moment, he chooses to write back to you straight away.

<To: Girl Magnetic> <From: Bands Boy> <Subject: Re: Passion 9:15pm>

hey there, g!

(oh, you’re so right! it’s a lot better to refer to ourselves like this)

wow, you never cease to amaze me

you’re right, i really did not expect any of those answers honestly

thank you for sharing them with me. i know that sometimes it isn’t easy to do so, especially with a complete stranger. so, i’m honoured that you’ve allowed yourself to be so open with me. i’ll make sure to thank you properly for your efforts and hope to return the favour soon!

so, writing huh? does this mean you actually want to become a professional writer? which field? journalism? novels? research?

and wow, it totally makes sense now as to why you’re doing psychology. 

hm, so what is something i’m passionate about?

mine is fairly simple: my passion lies with making music i enjoy

and when i say that, i truly mean it. i don’t make music to match the trend or to go against the grain so i stand out. the music i make isn’t always set in any particular genre. i just… want to make music that i like… if that makes sense? haha

now that i know you’re a writer, do you wanna… maybe… do a collab someday?

i am shocking when it comes to lyric writing haha

you wouldn’t mind helping me out with that right?

surprised, b

ps. what are you up to on this fine friday night?

You wouldn’t dare tell anyone how fast you ran to your laptop as soon as it notified you of Bands Boy’s response, almost tripping over your own foot and face planting on the floor. As your eyes glide through the words, you can’t seem to find yourself going past the first half of his email. Tears pool at the corner of your eyes, threatening to spill over but you are able to compose yourself in time. 

Yet again, he’s managed to put your mind at ease and made sure that you didn’t regret opening yourself up to him. However, you don’t let yourself delve deeper into these uncertain feelings, forcing yourself to move on and read the rest of his message so that you can answer him.

<To: Bands Boy> <From: Girl Magnetic> <Subject: Re: Passion 9:37pm>

omg i am so down for a collab!!

i’ve never ventured into lyric writing before but i am up for the challenge

i promise not to let you down!!

yes, i want to become a professional writer. a novelist in fact.

and yes, that’s why i’m doing psychology. i’m hoping to gain a better understanding of people and why they are the way that they are so that i can use it to improve my characters :) 

you know, i think it’s really cool that you just want to do music that you enjoy. there’s so many musicians out there who just do whatever’s popular and are only in there to make money and not much else, so you’re a breath of fresh air. 

i can’t wait to hear all the songs you create, i’m sure they’ll be great!

especially with me writing your lyrics ;) haha

oh, and i’m not really doing anything tonight but resting. i’ve had a big day with classes and work on top of that so i’m ready to wrap myself in a blanket and sit on the couch for the rest of the night.

what about you? i hope you’re not doing another essay lol

ps. you can thank yourself for the reason that i was able to open up to you :) 

Grabbing your laptop, you carry it to the couch and place it on the coffee table as you reach for a cushion to bury your face and scream into.

Meanwhile, Vernon gingerly rubs at his shin after tripping over on the stairs and bashing it against a step, in his hurry to get back to his room. Your email announces its presence as soon as he walks in and he makes sure to lock the door behind him before settling himself back on his chair and reading your message.

The smile on his face is so big that he can barely hide it behind his hand. Taking a deep breath to try and keep his cool, Vernon wipes his clammy hands on his pants and nods to himself before replying.

<To: Girl Magnetic> <From: Bands Boy> <Subject: Re: Passion 9:52pm>

no take backs on that collab!! i’m gonna hold you to it!!

i’m so excited i’m literally buzzing with ideas already hahaha

i think it’s super cool that you’re working on your very own novel

how far have you gotten with it? is it already in the works?

if you ever need someone to make a soundtrack once your novel becomes a major motion picture, you know who to hit up ;)

damn, you had a full day that’s for sure

work huh? i guess you’re probably not allowed to tell me where lol

your guess is half correct… i’m technically not doing an essay but i’m already doing some research since it’s due on monday

in need of saving, b

ps. hopefully i can keep making you comfortable enough to continue opening up to me :) 

The smile on your face from receiving his reply eventually turns into a frown as you read it a second time, when you realise that it’s time to cut your conversation with him short once more.

<To: Bands Boy> <From: Girl Magnetic> <Subject: Re: Passion 10:06pm>

i’m still world building right now. i have a bunch of random pieces of writing here and there but don’t have anything concrete just yet

omg would you really? i’ll definitely have you make me a soundtrack either way!!

let me go ahead and write my workplace to the list of things i’ll be revealing to you once this experiment is over haha

and i can’t believe you have another essay to do. it’s like your prof doesn’t want me talking to you lol

you know what this means right?

feeling bad, g

Groaning, Vernon drops his head face down on his desk. Yes, he knows what it means. An obstacle towards getting to know you more has presented itself yet again. It does feel like fate is working against the both of you but he isn’t one to give up so easily. Besides, Jeonghan did promise him that he still has plenty of opportunities to find out more about you.

Especially once your anonymity is no longer a hurdle to him.

<To: Girl Magnetic> <From: Bands Boy> <Subject: Re: Passion 10:24pm>

i know what it means *sigh

i hope you know that nothing will stop me from getting to know more about you once your thesis is finished

not even these damn music theory essays *shakes fist

determined, b

His reply stuns you. Albeit, his forwardness always does. But, you appreciate it nonetheless because it leaves no room for confusion. At least not from his end. Now, the only thing you have left to wonder about is how you feel about him.

<To: Bands Boy> <From: Girl Magnetic> <Subject: Re: Passion 10:33pm>

i’m looking forward to it

waiting for that day, g xo 

TAGLIST: @teapartydreams @aperson394 @cixrosie

© darlingvernon

pls do not copy/repost my work

[trashbag-baby666]

Home is Where the Heart is-Curt/Ken

What's Waited Till Tomorrow Starts Tonight au

summary: John and Curt come face to face with Ken's ex

wc: 702

c/w: Curt hitting people with his crutches, implied domestic abuse.

mota masterlist!

series masterlist! | ao3 link

John looked at the text Gale sent and looked back up at the oakwood door with the number plate 310 B on the door. 

He pocketed his phone and wrapped his knuckles against it. He hoped Dominic wasn’t home so they could just take Ken’s spare key and get his stuff and leave. Benny stood next to John, they waited a few moments and he knocked again, a little harder this time.

 “Jesus Christ.” They heard a gruff voice from the other side of the door. John took a deep breath as he mentally prepared himself to face him. Luckily, Sawyer was still helping Curt up the stairs. Damn building didn’t have an elevator and Curt demanded he go and help anyway.

“What?” The voice sounded as the door opened revealing a guy who was a few inches shorter than John with messy longer, brown hair. Not like Gales though, his was distasteful. 

“Are you Dominic Harring?” 

“Yeah, who’s asking?”

 “Some friends of Ken.” John nonchalantly shrugged his shoulders. 

The man on the other side of the doorframe rolled his eyes practically into the back of his head letting out a huff that turned into some kind of sarcastic laugh.

 John wrinkled his nose at the ick practically oozing off of this man. Not to mention, the strong smell of cigarettes radiating from the apartment. 

From what he could see, just from the doorway. This doesn’t look like a place Ken would live.

 He always kept his things very nice and tidy and cleaned for fun. Dominic went to close the door in their faces but Curt stuck his crutch between the door and the trim blocking it from closing. 

“We don’t want any trouble, we just came here to get his stuff.” Curt cleared his throat shouldering the door the rest of the way open.

“And how do you reckon you’re gonna do that, Tiny Tim?” Dom scoffed but John was sure he was eating his words as soon as they left his mouth.

 Curt shoved one of his crutches into Sawyer's arms and delivered the all too painful blow of a Curtis Biddick punch right to his face. He sent Dom right onto the Dirty carpet, blood instantly beginning to gush from his nose. Curt took back his crutch and stepped forward into the apartment. 

“Now are you gonna let us get his stuff, you fuckin’ pig?” Curt spat standing over him as he clutched his nose. 

“Fine.” He groaned through the pain. 

“Sawyer, why don’t you go help em’ get Kenny’s things?” Curt nodded to his younger brother, “I wanna have a few more words with this cuck.”

 Sawyer just nodded and followed John and Benny into the apartment. 

“You oughta be lucky I got my pals here with me, otherwise I would’ve dragged your sorry ass across the parking lot. I outta have your fuckin’ head for what you did to my boy.” Curt had to use everything in his power to not raise his voice. But to also not kick the ever loving shit out of him. He promised John on the way here he wouldn’t cause any trouble. 

Dom went to sit up but Curt was faster. He pushed the tip of his crutch to his chest, 

“Stay down, I ain’t finished with ya yet.” His words were full of venom and anger. He was practically boiling over himself in rage. “You better fuckin’ listen well ‘cause I ain’t repeatin’ myself. If you come within a hundred goddamn yards of Kenny, youse not going to get off the floor next time. By god help me if you ever try contacting him again I will fuckin’ kill you. You got that!?” 

“Yes, get off of me.” He grumbled trying to suppress his bleeding.

 The other three came back with just an arm full of stuff each. Saying they got what Ken asked for. 

“Might wanna have your carpets cleaned.” Curt growled, taking a cheap shot right at Dom's crotch with his crutch sending the man howling into a curled ball of himself.

 He reached over to the counter and grabbed an unopened bag of Doritos, shoving it into Sawyer's arms and leading the three of them out.

- - taglist: @austeenbootler @coastiewife465 @executethyself35 @slowsweetlove

[maximura]

Ad Astra: The Theory Of Relativity | An Interstellar Ateez story Part I | Part II | Part III | Park IV (Words 5130, Warnings: mild swearing)

It's just after 7pm when they finally pull up the dirt driveway to their home. The sun has set in the sky, its blue hour casting a soothing indigo over the property, and although they can't see them clearly, the gentle rustle from the surrounding corn fields comforts something deep within Hongjoong's soul. They've all been so careless to take this scene for granted every single day. 

Kyungmoon is relieved as he greets the brothers at the door, indulging Wooyoung in his tall tales and energy but when he catches Hongjoong's eyes, he silently motions upstairs, where Yunho must still be. 

"He's been worried." The older man says by way of explanation, "He helped me make dinner but didn't want to eat it until you got back. You might want to go talk to him."

"Thanks Uncle Moonie," Hongjoong nods. "I'll do it now."

After Wooyoung finally allows their uncle to go home, they both head to the kitchen to grab a drink of water, still parched from the day's events, and that's when they notice that Yunho had set the table already, all three plates and glasses flipped upside down to prevent any dust collecting. 

"Oh nice, corn cakes!" Wooyoung rushes forward when he spots the food containers, only to be abruptly yanked back by the neck of his hoody.

"No."

"What? It's dinner time isn't it?"

"Wait till I get Yunho. You know he's upset about today. Do not eat anything until I get back."

"Because we went without him?" Wooyoung asks. "He should've come with us." 

Hongjoong sighs. "Just sit and wait." 

He makes his way up the stairs and knocks gently on Yunho's bedroom door. There's nothing for a few seconds but he resists the urge to barge in, remembering how much he hated that when he was teenager himself. 

"Yunho? It's just me, can I come in?"

"No."

"Well, okay, can I talk to you through the door then?" 

"Just go away Hongjoong. I'm fine."

They haven't fought in such a long time that Hongjoong wonders if things have been building up to this anyway. 

"Sorry I didn't radio in this afternoon. They took the truck from us for a while but we're both fine now."

There's silence after this and Hongjoong knocks again.

"Yunho?"

"Leave me alone Hongjoong, I said I'm fine!"

If today was any other day, if NASA stayed dead, if there was no hopeful future to think about, if their parents never died, if he was just an older brother who only needed to think about himself, Hongjoong would've walked away and given his brother the space to deal with his emotions on his own. 

But in his heart, even without committing to anything, he knows their lives will change now. He doesn't have the luxury of time, none of them do, and now more than ever, he doesn't want to waste it over small petty misunderstandings or disagreements. 

"Okay but I just wanted to say sorry for coming home so late." Hongjoong says to Yunho's door. "Thanks for making us dinner by the way, that was really good of you, but your brother is about to eat the whole thing if you don't come down."

It's then that he hears angry stomping and the door being wrenched open with such force that the rush of air ruffles Hongjoong's hair into his eyes. 

"But that's for all of us! God, why is he so annoying!?"

Yunho rarely gets angry for long but he's a teenager like any other and not immune to exploding with volcanic rage. Right now, he fills up the entire doorway and Hongjoong has to take a step backwards to make some space. 

He's grown so tall now, towering head and shoulders above nearly everyone, and for a split second, with his balled fists and tightly wound muscles, Hongjoong wonders if his brother has ever wanted to punch him in the face just to release the anger. 

But the rage always fizzles out as quickly as it boils over. 

On seeing his older brother standing there with tired shadows under his eyes and the same crumpled clothes he's seen a million times before, Yunho slowly lets the feelings of betrayal fade away, only to find them replaced by shame and guilt.

Hongjoong catches the change as it happens and knows he has to derail that train of thought.

"Well, hate to break it to you but he's not adopted and it's completely genetic."

Yunho huffs out a laugh, almost against his will, but the fight has left his body now. He isn't completely immune to Dad Jokes yet. 

“He’s kinda stuck with us forever, so don't be too mad at him."

"I'm not mad at him." Yunho says, voice back to normal.

"Are you mad at me? It's okay if you are."

Yunho doesn't answer, preferring to silently stare at their feet. Hongjoong was still in his sturdy old work boots but Yunho’s much larger feet were encased in blue slippers and the old dog socks that their mum had given them all one year. It makes Hongjoong suddenly nostalgic for Christmas holidays, back when it was a day to actually celebrate and not actively dread because another year was over. 

"Come on, it's been a long day, do you want to come down and eat dinner with us? You did all the hard work for it."

Yunho shoulders slump and he lets out a defeated sigh. "Fine."

The mood is a little brighter over dinner and even though Hongjoong is relieved that Yunho rarely holds much of a grudge, he also knows that his brother masks his hurt the best out of the three of them. Hongjoong is mostly too tired to pretend and Wooyoung broadcasts his emotions on every wavelength and frequency that exists, whether he realises it or not. 

But ever since he was a child, Yunho had often chosen to suffer in silence, especially if it meant keeping the peace.

It's why Hongjoong is knocking on his door again at bedtime. 

"Hey Yunho, it's me. Can I talk to you for a bit?"

This time his brother opens the door and invites him in. 

In stark contrast to Wooyoung's biohazard of a bedroom, Yunho's was much neater: with cleaned floors, a closet of folded clothes and a desk only half littered with homework. There are two photo frames on the bookshelf: one of them all at an amusement park with their parents and another from last year when Wooyoung had won a science competition at school. 

“I just wanted to say sorry about today again.” Hongjoong says as he sits down at the desk.

"It's okay Hongjoong, I know you had to go."

"Well, I didn't really and I didn't give you any notice so that was real shitty of me." Hongjoong says earnestly. "Is that what you were angry about?"

Yunho shrugs and looks at the floor. 

There's a long pause followed by a barely audible mumble.

"What?"

Yunho sighs with pained effort and looks everywhere but at his brother.

“You both just left.” He says quietly. “I thought you weren't coming back.”

Hongjoong chest aches at the words. He fucked up and he knows it. 

"I'm sorry," He repeats, knowing how inadequate it sounds now. "I know it was a stupid. I wasn't planning to leave you here by yourself. I didn't tell Wooyoung to come."

"Well, he went anyway."

"I know." Hongjoong says in exasperation, "I didn't want him to. He was supposed to stay here with you."

Yunho starts picking at the sleeves to his sweater but doesn't reply or look up. 

“I know you hate it when I do stuff like this.” Hongjoong continues apologetically, "I really didn't plan to leave you alone like that."

Yunho shrugs again.

"I'm....I'm really trying to make better decisions that are important for us, all of us. You know that right?"

"Yeah, I know."

"I thought about turning back and taking you with us but your school's social worker is already hassling me about my "unconventional parenting."

Yunho looks up now. "She is?"

"Yeah, I think they're just waiting for me to mess up." Hongjoong chuckles bitterly. 

"Well, she doesn't know anything." Yunho says with a scowl. "It's just her job to be like that with kids when their parents die."

"Well, as annoying as she is, it's good that you have people like that looking out for you guys at school."

"We can take care of ourselves too." Yunho says defiantly, voice now regaining back some of its confidence, albeit shakily. "I'm not a little kid." 

"I know." Hongjoong smiles. "I know you can look after yourself and I know you can look after Wooyoung too but I'm still your older brother, so I'll keep trying not to do so many stupid reckless things. No guarantees but I'll try."

"You love doing stupid things though." Yunho mutters under his breath. "That's why you have no friends."

"Hey! I have friends!"

Yunho just gives him a withering look. "The Park uncles don't count and people you do jobs for don't count either."

"Yeah yeah whatever." Hongjoong says with a dismissive hand wave. "Hey, speaking of stupid things, what the hell happened with your driving test? And that punk on a bike?"

Yunho suddenly flops face down into his bed with a frustrated groan. "Why does everyone know about that?!"

"Because it's hilarious?" Hongjoong laughs. "So who is this kid? Someone in your class right? Have I met him? Her? Them?"

Yunho's ears turn bright red. "Do we have to have this conversation Hongjoong? I forgive you or whatever okay? Can we just stop talking about this now please?"

"Well, I'm trying to do more conventional parenting, so spill it: who is this giant that's got you so distracted that you almost crashed into Farmer Lee's paddock?"

With his face down in the pillows, all that comes from Yunho is muffled gibberish. 

"What? I can't hear anything you're saying."

Yunho rolls over now to look at the ceiling, there's a deep blush colouring his cheeks. "It's just.......well, um, it's a...guy...I think."

Honjoong chuckles, "You think?"

It's then that it hits him; he may have known about Yunho's preferences for years but his brother is only figuring it out for himself now. He's tried his best to give Yunho a safe space to tell him, whenever he was ready to, but it never came.

He can't fuck this up now.

"Oh hey, that's cool! What's he like?" 

Instead of answering, Yunho looks over at his older brother, eyes shifty and nervous at the over enthusiastic response. "So you're not...mad at me?"

"For what?"

"For....that it's not, you know, a girl?"

"No, Yunho. No. I am not mad at you." Hongjoong says gently but firmly, making sure there's no room for any misunderstanding. "That's the last thing I would be mad about, and besides, it would be kind of hypocritical of me to judge you for that."

There's a pause so deafening that they can both hear the wall clock tick tick in the room. Yunho eyes widen in shock as he slowly comes to the realisation about his brother. 

"WHAT."

"What?"

"Since when were you...."

"Into guys?" Hongjoong supplies helpfully, "Since always little bro. So when you need to have that other talk, let me know. Safety first!"

"Oh my god. Make it stop." Yunho flops down into his pillows again. "We are not having that conversation right now!"

Hongjoong chuckles but decides to take pity on his brother; he remembers how big, life-altering and world-ending all his teenage crushes felt back then too. Young love is as potent a blessing and as it is a poisonous curse.

Adult love wasn't much better. 

"Okay okay, I'm leaving. Get some sleep." Hongjoong rises from the table but can't resist walking over to thump Yunho's back a few times in solidarity. "I'm very proud of you today okay? Tell me when you want to have that other conversation. Anytime. Okay?"

There's a muffled "okay" in reply and a small “Thanks” as Hongjoong exits the room.

They will be fine.

But he can't go to sleep yet. 

There's still the matter of the manic fourteen year old banging around in their basement instead of sleeping. 

"Wooyoung, it's been a long day." Hongjoong rubs his eyes in exhaustion. "Can you leave the drone alone? It'll still be here in the morning."

Wooyoung is sitting in front of the dissected drone with a contemplative expression, like a surgeon about to engage in some delicate neurosurgery. Hongjoong sighs as he plucks the wire cutters from his brother's hand.  

"Seonghwa can build robots. Did you know that?" Wooyoung asks him. "He probably told you when you had your meeting. He's so smart. And he's so nice. And he's so tall, I think he's definitely taller than you."

"How is that even important?" Hongjoong replies defensively as he tidies the mess of papers and pencils strewn around the work bench. "He's a know-it-all, is what he is."

Wooyoung blinks at him for a few seconds before going back to the drone. "Yeah that's what I meant: he's really smart."

"Why are you even on first names basis with him? You met him for like ten minutes."

"But that's his name? Doctor Park Seonghwa? He said to call him Seonghwa." Wooyoung says in confusion. "Why? What do you call him then?"

"This isn't relevant." Hongjoong mumbles dismissively. "That place is full of astrophysicists, they're all smart."

"I have to start building more robots.” Wooyoung announces matter-of-factly. “Seonghwa said he built his first one out of Lego when he was thirteen. I'm a whole year behind Hongjoong! I've only built radios and circuits. Do you think we can find some Lego?"

Oh God. 

Raising a fourteen year old is a never ending cycle of lost battles.

“If you stop terrorising that drone and go to sleep right now, I'll ask around for some Lego. How's that?"

Wooyoung peers at him skeptically with a sharply raised eyebrow. “Tomorrow?”

"Sure, tomorrow."

"Okay, deal."

Hongjoong falls asleep as soon as he hits the mattress but while his body is dead to the world, his mind is alive with visions of space shuttles, sunsets and a binary moon. He’s never alone in the dream but he doesn’t know who is next to him either. It’s someone kind. Someone who understands him. Someone he loves.

It isn't a nightmare, it doesn't feel like a dream, it just feels like a memory he hasn’t lived yet.

*

After their encounter with NASA, not that much changes for awhile. Hongjoong deliberately keeps it that way, not yet ready to face the big decisions looming in the distance. He doesn't tell Wooyoung all the details of that day at NASA, he doesn't tell Yunho or anyone else either, not out of sworn secrecy but out of fear for their reactions. It weighs heavily on his mind, like a persistent dark cloud that follows him everywhere.

Yeosang contacts him a few times to gather more details and sends through some proposals for his involvement. Professor Park calls him too, just to talk about the updates. He doesn't say 'yes' to anything but eventually agrees help with the training manual for the pilots. He can do that. It's easy to work on it when the boys are asleep. Nobody has to know. Nothing has to change. 

One day, a week after he sends his suggestions for the pilot program, he's in the middle of fixing their neighbour's tractor when a package arrives in the mail, hand delivered by a man he's never seen in these parts of town before. 

Dear Mr Kim, 

On behalf of the astrophysics and aerospace divisions at NASA, we would like to acknowledge and thank you for your submission regarding the current pilot program. Your suggestions will now enter the appropriate channels for review and consideration. Please contact me should you have any further questions or wish to extend your involvement. 

Regards, 

Dr Kang Yeosang

NASA Head Of Public Relations and Communications

Hongjoong folds the letter back into its envelope and stuffs them both in his desk drawer. This is enough involvement. He did what they had asked of him, his job is done for now, and he tries to put it out of his mind. 

The school year drags on to keeps them all busy. Wooyoung's suspension is revoked when he promised to retake the science test. Of course he gets an A and Hongjoong feels smugly victorious about it, knowing Kim Yonghwan would've absolutely hated grading that and how it means the fourteen year old would not fail science after all. 

Yunho passes his driving test on the second attempt. No bike distractions this time. 

As the year draws to a close, there was the small matter of his high school graduation. Despite always doing well academically, Yunho had simply announced one day that he intended to keep working at the Lucky Corn Mill after graduation but also wanted to help Hongjoong with his engineering jobs. 

"You can study at the university in the next town too." Hongjoong reminds him. "If you want that. We'll make it work."

But Yunho had shaken his head, "No, I want to stay here. I like working at the Mill and Uncle Moonie said he would level up my job if I learnt how to repair the machines like you do."

Hongjoong had been half skeptical, wondering if Yunho was keeping the peace again by taking the path that would be the most easy for their family. But when Hongjoong asks him this, he's met with an easy grin. 

"No, I really want to stay here. Our town needs the Mill. I don't want to move to another place and not know anyone. Seems like a big hassle if you ask me."

It doesn't come as a surprise to Hongjoong. It was what he had expected. Wooyoung always had his head in the clouds, dreaming big dreams and having big ambitions that he didn't know how to realise, but Yunho was grounded in this town's dirt and dust, rooted in the same community that he grew up in and cared for. 

The graduation day itself is a flurry of activity that seemed so unnecessary. It's unbelievable how stressful getting three sets of suits cleaned and ironed turns out to be. Wooyoung wears a tie and brushes his long dark hair only after the promise of more Lego and electronics to build his robots. Hongjoong caves in to the demands for the sake of his own sanity. 

It all culminates in Yunho having an uncharacteristic crisis in the truck on the way to the ceremony. 

"Don't embarrass me!" Yunho tells them firmly. "Especially you Wooyoung."

"What? Why especially me?"

"You always make so much noise and I swear to God, do not to ask every single person I introduce you to if we're dating. I'm not dating anyone! Got it?"

"Got it." Hongjoong salutes, while Wooyoung just mumbles something unintelligible. 

"And don't dad my friends." This one he directs at his older brother.

"I don't do that!" Hongjoong replies defensively.

"Yes you do!" Both younger brothers yell in unison. 

“Recommending sunscreen is not dad-behaviour. It’s just common sense. Our ozone layer is not what it used to be.”

Yunho sighs as Wooyoung wheezes like an asthmatic bird next to him.

“See all this?” Yunho says, gesturing to everything in the truck. “This is what I need you not to do!”

The graduation takes place in the school's indoor basketball court and it's all too familiar for Hongjoong, right down to the colours of the gowns, the cheerful balloons and streamers and the chatter of proud parents and overexcited teenagers. 

Wooyoung is inhaling the free food and Hongjoong leaves him there to mingle with some parents he knows, like he's an Actual Responsible Adult now himself. He does not make eye contact with the social workers, just in case they have any more unsolicited feedback about his parenting skills.

Against strict instructions not to do it, they let out loud cheers when Yunho is called out with his classmates and Hongjoong finds it endearing how red his brother gets at the attention. There are two other tall boys in the class, one he knows already, the Song's only son Mingi, and one he's never met before. He wonders which one owns the infamous bike. 

Wooyoung insists on being the official photographer of the event and sneaks up front to take copious photos of Yunho getting his certificate. 

Third in his class. 

Hongjoong is so proud of him. The overwhelming feeling sneaks up without warning and he doesn't realise he's tearing up until it's too late. The lump in his throat formed without his consent but as he claps and cheers, he thinks to himself, overcome with relief: I didn't fuck it up, he turned out okay.

After the formalities are done for the day, Yunho goes off to talk to his friends. They meet up later for a late lunch with Kyungmoon and Jonghoon, who gift Yunho with some new work boots that he tries on immediately.

As a treat, Hongjoong drives them both to a supermarket on the edge of town that still carried a small assortment of junk food that contained so many preservatives, they never really seemed to expire. They sit in the back of the pick up truck to eat it. 

"Hongjoong CRIED. How lame!"

"Thanks Wooyoung. That's real nice of you to point that out, you little punk."

Yunho laughs and uses the good mood to ask Hongjoong for a sip of his beer. Hongjoong gives him a bottle of his own instead. It's a maize lager that's barely alcoholic at all but Yunho relishes every single drop of it like it was the best thing he's ever tasted. 

Even in the time of a global food shortage, humankind will always find a way to manufacture alcohol.

Wooyoung sets the camera to takes a dopey photo of them all grinning like lunatics and while the boys fight over the last of the candy, Hongjoong can't help thinking that if life never gets better than this, it's okay. 

They're okay. This is okay. 

And they deserve so many more decades of it.

*

The weather is hot and dry over the summer school break. They have a few days of rain but it's not enough. Yunho takes more shifts at the Mill to help process as much of the existing crop as urgently as possible. On his days off from his regular jobs, Hongjoong takes Wooyoung to the Mill to help the Park brothers fulfill the orders that were coming in hard and fast. 

The town is thrown into panic mode by the threat of a drought and it only slows down when they get a solid week of heavy rains. Jonghoon chuckles at the fickleness of the weather, lamenting poetically how mercurial and precarious it was for humankind's survival. It was all meant to lighten the mood but even the jokes had a bitter nervous edge to them. 

Yunho takes renewed interest in mechanical engineering and Hongjoong is all too happy to pass on his knowledge, going as far as having Yunho tag along to his jobs, whenever he wasn’t at the Mill. As expected, he takes to it like a duck to water, but surprises them both with his capacity for learning.

Wooyoung litters the basement with what Hongjoong can only describe as a small army of Lego robots. They don’t question the teenager and leave him be, only periodically coming down to feed and water him. 

Life is peaceful for a period.

Then several letters from NASA begin to arrive, increasing in frequency and then urgency. 

*

Dear Mr Kim, 

Following review from the aerospace division, we are pleased to advise that your suggestions were met with favourable agreement. Given the sensitive and complex nature of operations, we would be grateful if you could make contact regarding an in-person discussion on the best way to move forward with your involvement.

Regards, 

Dr Kang Yeosang

NASA Head Of Public Relations and Communications

*

A week later, prompted by his lack of response, another letter arrives. 

Dear Mr Kim, 

I am writing on behalf of our aerospace division to follow up your response regarding your involvement with our pilot program. Please contact me to discuss this matter. 

Regards, 

Dr Kang Yeosang

NASA Head Of Public Relations and Communications

*

Dear Hongjoong, 

Yeosang's gotten himself in a stress spiral over the pilot program. I read your suggestions and proposal, it was brilliant as expected. Please contact my poor colleague to save him from his descent into madness. Our young pilots would most benefit from your guidance, particularly in person. 

The shuttle is coming along well. They will be mounting the boosters soon. I apologise for the urgency but time is always of the essence, as you know. 

Please send my best to the boys.

Kind Regards, 

Professor Park 

NASA Director of Astrophysics and Aerospace Engineering, PhD

*

Dear Mr Kim, 

I am writing to follow up on the numerous unanswered correspondence you have received from our organisation. I have word that the letters have arrived safely to you in person, please advise if you have moved residences since or remain confused by the information provided and need assistance. 

As per our previous correspondence(s), I wish to reiterate the importance of our aerospace and pilot program and also remind you of their role in both our imminent and future stellar missions. We simply cannot proceed without their involvement.

I have read your suggestions for the pilot training program. It would seem your experience would be greatly beneficial to our young trainees. 

Please advise Dr Kang Yeosang if you do not wish to remain involved in assisting our mission as his time, and mine, would be better served in less futile pursuits. 

Regards, 

Dr Park Seonghwa

NASA Deputy head of Astrophysics, Robotic Engineering and Interstellar Biology, PhD

*

Dear Doctor Park, 

I am writing to confirm I have received and was able to read all the letters. I'm glad to hear my suggestions were helpful in some way. Contrary to popular belief, I have many other equally important commitments here.

I wasn't trying to waste Yeosang's time or yours but as I explained to your father before, my priority is to ensure the ongoing stability for my family. It would not be practical to travel multiple hours out of town to train your pilots on a regular basis. 

I remain available to offer assistance in other forms. 

Regards, 

Kim Hongjoong

*

Dear Mr Kim, 

It seems you are capable of answering correspondence in a timely manner after all. 

I have taken the liberty of proposing a relocation of our partial pilot simulator to a venue more accessible to you. I believe it will cut down your travel time to half an hour each way. Yeosang will draw up a proposed schedule, taking into account the days you are available from your current occupation.

Please reply promptly if this is agreeable to you as I would like to progress this situation without further delays.

Regards, 

Dr Park Seonghwa

NASA Deputy head of Astrophysics, Robotic Engineering and Interstellar Biology, PhD

*

Dear Doctor Park, 

Yes, that would be agreeable. 

Thank you, 

Kim Hongjoong

*

Dear Mr Kim, 

I have made arrangements for the partial simulator to be relocated to its new venue in 10 days. I have included all the details of such in this pack, including your security ID and paperwork, which you will need to return to Yeosang ASAP. 

There is no set launch date available at this time but I am compelled to tell you that all pilots need to be ready when they are called. 

Please do not lose your security ID. It is particularly tedious to obtain a replacement. 

Thank you for your cooperation. 

Regards, 

Dr Park Seonghwa

NASA Deputy head of Astrophysics, Robotic Engineering and Interstellar Biology, PhD

*

Dear Doctor Park,

Thank you for making the arrangements. It’s incredible that you were able to do all that so quickly. As per your threat, I have returned all the security paperwork to Yeosang this morning. 

There might be typos and one of Wooyoung’s robots spilled coffee on the pages. 

I’m looking forward to meeting your pilots.

Regards, 

Hongjoong

P.S I will try my best not to lose the security ID

*

Dear Mr Kim, 

I have confirmed that Yeosang has received your paperwork and processed it. It was rather difficult with the coffee staining but he is a professional after all. 

I am glad to hear that your brother has chosen to take his talent for science so seriously. Robotics is a noble pursuit with significant benefits to society. 

Regards, 

Dr Park Seonghwa

NASA Deputy head of Astrophysics, Robotic Engineering and Interstellar Biology, PhD

P.S Please do not include P.S notes in official correspondence letters

*

Dear Doctor Park, 

Please send my apologies to Yeosang for all the inconveniences. 

Wooyoung insists I say Hi to you on his behalf. He’s threatening to send his robot army to kill me in my sleep if I don’t. 

Regards, 

Hongjoong

P.S Okay

*

Dear Mr Kim, 

It is perplexing that you continually choose to be contrary to my recommendations. I also note the lack of apology to myself, who also had to assist with your coffee stained paperwork. 

Please advise Wooyoung that I said Hello and wish him the best with his killer robot army. I am certain their enemy will be of no match. 

Regards, 

Dr Park Seonghwa

NASA Deputy head of Astrophysics, Robotic Engineering and Interstellar Biology, PhD

P.S Please stop this, it’s unprofessional

*

Dear Doctor Park, 

I didn’t apologise to you because it seems like my brother is trying to follow in your footsteps and has taken over our entire basement. I had to ask the entire town for all their old Lego bricks, they all think I’ve gone nuts now.

The Coffee Incident is your fault. So I’m not sorry. Wooyoung wants to show you his killer robot army one day but I’m sure you’ve got plenty of other important things to do.

Yeosang gave me my new schedule, thank you for taking my job and brothers into account. I’m meeting your new pilots in two days. Will the rest of the team be there too?

Regards, 

Hongjoong

*

Dear Mr Kim, 

The rest of the team is not required to attend. Relevant members of the aerospace division will be present to provide you with orientation but I understand you are already well familiar with how the simulators work. 

You will be asked to provide direct feedback to my father or Yeosang, however you may also send your evaluation reports to me directly if it is easier. 

Please advise Wooyoung that when time permits, it would give me great pleasure to see his killer robot army. Unfortunately, at present I am trying to find solutions for interstellar biodynamic viability.

Your lack of remorse is deeply disrespectful but expected for one so unappreciative of robotics. I send Wooyoung my condolences.

Regards, 

Dr Park Seonghwa

NASA Deputy head of Astrophysics, Robotic Engineering and Interstellar Biology, PhD

P.S: I wish you the best for your first day with our pilots

[janatm]

and we'll linger on, time can't erase a feeling this strong || BRAKE

tagging: Jake Puckerman ( @puckjake & Bree Brown

date & time: September 29, 2024 around noon

location: Bree's Place

warnings: none!

summary: After being broken up for months and actively not talking and communicating like they should, finally after everything that has happened, they say what they need to say to each other and the world doesn't end.

word count: 2,471

JAKE groaned as he parked his bike outside of Bree's building. He couldn't even remember the last time he'd been here, but it had been under the guise of sex and that time last time was fine. This was different. After the throuple drama and his own shit being dragged into the mess, he had put off talking to Bree for as long as he could, but he knew it wasn't fair to her that the ball was in his court and he wasn't giving her shit to work with, so here he was. Taking the paper bag of food out of the bike's compartment, he took his helmet off as he walked up to Bree's apartment. His mind was a total mess right now but there was no turning back now so he just sucked it up as he knocked on the door.

BREE tried to have a normal morning, but all she could think about was the fact that Jake was coming over. It could be a good thing, but last time they talked it went really bad and then he's just... avoided her ever since. Which, maybe that's on her for still trying to be around, maybe that's what he wanted to talk about? Although it's more likely it was about everything his brother said after that weird ass lesson Professor Anderson held a couple days ago. Making sure her lips were perfectly glossy, she definitely spent more time on her appearence then she should have. But a skirt and a nice breatheable sweater might sound like too much but it's actually pretty casual for her. Taking a deep breath as she heard a knock on her door, she went to open it. Seeing her ex holding a bag of, what she assumed, was food, she stepped aside so he could come in. "Very punctual." Was all she could think to say.

JAKE gave Bree a small smile as she opened up the door, and when he wasn't met with some bullshit ass remark that would make him change his mind and send him right back home, he just nodded as he stepped inside. "Figured you might be busy later so I wanted to be here on time." He stated, as he walked in and put his helmet down next to the couch. "I uh...wasn't sure if you'd eaten or not yet, and I was craving burgers from that diner you would never be caught at but used to let me order take out from anyways, so..." His words faded out as he held the bag up. "I also know how you are so should I lay this out on the dining room table, or is right here on the coffee table good?"

BREE looked at the bag and stopped herself from smiling. It was sweet and thoughtful. They've been so at each other's throats since they broke up, she forgot what it was like when they weren't. It was also good timing because she was hungry and she hadn't had this place because, well, she hadn't been willing to ask Jake to orfer it for her. Normally she would say they need to go to the dining room, because that's what that room was for, but her living room was more, comfortable so she gestured at the coffee table. "The coffee table is fine just, let me get some good napkins, and plates, and cups for drinks." She said as she cleared off the coffee table, making sure everything was put away before going to the kitchen. When she came back she had a cold sprite zero and a cold Dr. Pepper and two cups with ice, along with the plates and napkins. Placing everything down on the table, she sat on th couch and tried not to think about it getting dirty for the greasy food. "Thank you, for the food, it was very thoughtful of you." See, she could be nice.

JAKE hadn't entirely been sure why he'd chosen to stop for food before coming over, aside from the fact that he was hungry, but perhaps it was him being thoughtful? He'd already made his brain hurt enough times trying to figure all of this shit out so as far as he knew, he was starving and hadn't wanted to show up empty handed. he let her get everything out, eyeing the drinks in her hand before biting back a smile. He could ask why she still kept some here since he knew she didn't drink them, but he hadn't wanted to start a fight so he decided against it this time as he laid the food out on the plates. He didn't know why Bree was choosing her couch for them to eat on, when he was sure it cost a lot, but he just sat down on it anyways. "It's nothing." He stated, picking up her plate and handing it over to her. "And before we get into all the serious shit, I'm sorry for not acknowledging the fact that you actually went out shopping with me, in public. I didn't realize how big of a deal it was until afterwards, so that's on me."

BREE tried not to look so taken aback by Jake's apology. Thankfully, if she was good at anything, it was keeping her reactions and emotions off of her face when she wanted to or had to and this situation kind of felt like both. She just kind of looked at him for a moment, because she had kind of accepted that he just hadn't cared anymore and was trying her best to not seem so heartbroken about that every time she had to exist in the world. But here her ex was saying he had noticed, even if it had been late. "I just wanted you to know I heard you and that regardless of what we are. I won't put you through that again." She said looking him in the eye, wanting him to understand that was was trying. Not just for him or for them, but because she didn't want to be some puppet her parents pulled the strings on. She wanted to be free. "So what's the serious stuff you wanted to talk about then?"

JAKE had spent days trying to understand why Bree had invited herself on his shopping excursion, or why she'd actually followed through and joined him, and it hadn't quite made sense. Sure, they were getting along to an extent, and she was always giving him shit about his clothes so it was the perfect chance for her to have a say in his wardrobe, but agreeing to go out in public with him had been a shock. Taking his own plate into his hands as he took in her explanation, he was sure that he would've dropped the food on the couch if he hadn't been gripping the plate as tightly as he was. "You know you don't owe me shit anymore, right?" He asked, though that was probably a stupid question considering she clearly saw things differently. Taking a bite out of his burger, Jake wasn't surprised that Bree was steering the conversation right to the serious stuff already. Damn, can't even let a man breathe and eat first? he thought to himself as he chewed his food down. So much for taking this slow. "I don't really know how to explain this, but...I guess having sex with you is how I show love. I'm not really sure how else you're supposed to show it, which with my parents, makes a whole lot of fucking sense, so being intimate with you is the only way I knew how to express it."

BREE put her share of the food on her plate and crossed her legs to have something to rest it on. "I'm aware. I didn't do it because I owe you. I did it because I wanted to not because I felt like I had to." And it had been a little... concerning that morning but as soon they were out and about she hadn't even thought about what it would look like or what if someone saw them. She was just, happy to be spending time with someone she wanted to spend time with. As Jake all but shoved a bite in his mouth, Bree ate a couple of fries before pouring her drink and taking a sip. Thankfully her hands were free, when Jake spoke, because of all the things she had been expecting, that hadn't even made the list. Honestly, she had forgotten she'd asked him about that until that moment. But it made sense, because since the physical aspect, and not just the sex but any level of physical closeness, was cut off in their relationship, Bree hadn't felt loved by Jake. Which maybe says something about how she received love or wanted to receive love. "I get it. When I said we needed to end the physical part of our relationship I was cutting off your main way of loving me." She said it more as a thought she happened to say out loud. "I'm sorry I did that. I should have realized sooner what your love looked like. And while I'm apologizing, I'm sorry I made you be my secret for so long and just expecting you to be okay with it. I'm sorry I made you watch me be publicly single. I'm sorry I never stood up for you or us to my parents. I'm sorry that I didn't see that I was hurting you, I'm sorry I never really looked. I love you but I see now that you couldn't have known that by how I was treating you." That was the first time she'd ever said it and she was just grateful he finally got to hear it. And if she didn't believe that crying undermined an apology, her face would be covered in snot and tears.

JAKE accepted that Bree had gone shopping with him because she wanted to, and it did make him feel...good, or something akin to that. He was grateful at the very least that she'd willingly wanted to do it, so at least they were taking small steps in the right direction. That was even more obvious with the way he'd confessed to some shit he hadn't exactly planned on just blurting out the second he sat down, but it was out there now and he couldn't take it back. And when Bree spoke up and believed him, with no sass and no attitude, he was both stunned and relieved. That was one less thing they'd have to fight about later, thankfully. He took another bite of his burger as it appeared to be her turn to start confessing whatever was on her heart, and he would have choked if he wasn't already swallowing back the food in his mouth as he took in the sea of sorries she was unleashing. It was rare for her to apologize at all, let alone back to back like this, so he did at least know she was being genuine. So he didn't interrupt her, deciding to let her finish before he put his plate down and turned to face her. "You know you could've just said all of this the night I told you I loved you, right?" He joked, deciding they should probably lighten the mood after all this serious ass shit. "But don't sweat it. I forgive you. And I know I've already apologized for it, but I'm sorry about the cheating thing. Honestly, maybe since I show love with sex, me having sex with someone else was to hurt you, to make you feel as neglected and small as I felt our entire relationship — especially since I didn't know exactly how you felt about me or us. I know that was fucked up, and I'm really sorry." Jake sighed. "But we're here now...so what the hell are we gonna do?"

BREE was suddenly nervous, even fidgeting a little with the hem of her skirt. But she did manage to keep eye contact so hopefully she didn't look as nervous as she felt, but even if she didn't Jake would probably know. She didn't even have time for her brain to start overthinking about it all before Jake said he forgave her. Again, she's not crying, but she probably would later when she was alone and replayed this entire interaction for the sixth time. While being forgiven was a relief she didn't even know she was waiting for, it was the overwhelming realization that she forgave him too. She wasn't mad at him anymore, and when she looked at him she didn't just see him with some other chick, she didn't feel pain or rage, she just missed him and wanted to be close to him again. That was a feeling she just hadn't been prepared for. By the time he had finished apologizing again, she just felt they were entirely too far apart. So she leaned forward, grabbed his plate of food and moved it to the coffee table, before getting up and sitting on his lap. Wrapping her arms around him for the first time, in what felt like a year, she smiled at him. Rarely was Bree soft around anyone, but Jake had always brought that side out of her in their quieter moments. "I forgive you." She said simply. "And I know we've got more to talk about probably but right now what you're going to do is kiss me." She said leaning into him a bit more.

JAKE hated the mushy shit, he truly did, yet he seemed to get that way when Bree wanted him to open up. And while he also wasn't a fan of having to just blurt out his goddamn feelings, it wasn't turning out to be a bad thing right now, thankfully. He did know that Bree had been waiting for him to be ready to talk, and just from the look in her eyes he could tell that she was relieved that they were getting it all out in the air. Expecting for her to say something back now, he furrowed his brows when instead she just moved to straddle his lap instead. He wouldn't complain about the position, but he was a little shocked that they'd jumped to this conclusion already. Letting his hands reach around and grab that perfect ass he loved so much, Jake wasn't the least bit surprised that she was asking - or demanding - a kiss. And he had denied her of enough already, so he simply nodded obediently. "You didn't have to sit on my dick for a kiss." He teased before he leaned in anyways and captured his girl's lips in a heated kiss.

[blckbarbree]

and we'll linger on, time can't erase a feeling this strong || BRAKE

tagging: Jake Puckerman ( @puckjake & Bree Brown

date & time: September 29, 2024 around noon

location: Bree's Place

warnings: none!

summary: After being broken up for months and actively not talking and communicating like they should, finally after everything that has happened, they say what they need to say to each other and the world doesn't end.

word count: 2,471

JAKE groaned as he parked his bike outside of Bree's building. He couldn't even remember the last time he'd been here, but it had been under the guise of sex and that time last time was fine. This was different. After the throuple drama and his own shit being dragged into the mess, he had put off talking to Bree for as long as he could, but he knew it wasn't fair to her that the ball was in his court and he wasn't giving her shit to work with, so here he was. Taking the paper bag of food out of the bike's compartment, he took his helmet off as he walked up to Bree's apartment. His mind was a total mess right now but there was no turning back now so he just sucked it up as he knocked on the door.

BREE tried to have a normal morning, but all she could think about was the fact that Jake was coming over. It could be a good thing, but last time they talked it went really bad and then he's just... avoided her ever since. Which, maybe that's on her for still trying to be around, maybe that's what he wanted to talk about? Although it's more likely it was about everything his brother said after that weird ass lesson Professor Anderson held a couple days ago. Making sure her lips were perfectly glossy, she definitely spent more time on her appearence then she should have. But a skirt and a nice breatheable sweater might sound like too much but it's actually pretty casual for her. Taking a deep breath as she heard a knock on her door, she went to open it. Seeing her ex holding a bag of, what she assumed, was food, she stepped aside so he could come in. "Very punctual." Was all she could think to say.

JAKE gave Bree a small smile as she opened up the door, and when he wasn't met with some bullshit ass remark that would make him change his mind and send him right back home, he just nodded as he stepped inside. "Figured you might be busy later so I wanted to be here on time." He stated, as he walked in and put his helmet down next to the couch. "I uh...wasn't sure if you'd eaten or not yet, and I was craving burgers from that diner you would never be caught at but used to let me order take out from anyways, so..." His words faded out as he held the bag up. "I also know how you are so should I lay this out on the dining room table, or is right here on the coffee table good?"

BREE looked at the bag and stopped herself from smiling. It was sweet and thoughtful. They've been so at each other's throats since they broke up, she forgot what it was like when they weren't. It was also good timing because she was hungry and she hadn't had this place because, well, she hadn't been willing to ask Jake to orfer it for her. Normally she would say they need to go to the dining room, because that's what that room was for, but her living room was more, comfortable so she gestured at the coffee table. "The coffee table is fine just, let me get some good napkins, and plates, and cups for drinks." She said as she cleared off the coffee table, making sure everything was put away before going to the kitchen. When she came back she had a cold sprite zero and a cold Dr. Pepper and two cups with ice, along with the plates and napkins. Placing everything down on the table, she sat on th couch and tried not to think about it getting dirty for the greasy food. "Thank you, for the food, it was very thoughtful of you." See, she could be nice.

JAKE hadn't entirely been sure why he'd chosen to stop for food before coming over, aside from the fact that he was hungry, but perhaps it was him being thoughtful? He'd already made his brain hurt enough times trying to figure all of this shit out so as far as he knew, he was starving and hadn't wanted to show up empty handed. he let her get everything out, eyeing the drinks in her hand before biting back a smile. He could ask why she still kept some here since he knew she didn't drink them, but he hadn't wanted to start a fight so he decided against it this time as he laid the food out on the plates. He didn't know why Bree was choosing her couch for them to eat on, when he was sure it cost a lot, but he just sat down on it anyways. "It's nothing." He stated, picking up her plate and handing it over to her. "And before we get into all the serious shit, I'm sorry for not acknowledging the fact that you actually went out shopping with me, in public. I didn't realize how big of a deal it was until afterwards, so that's on me."

BREE tried not to look so taken aback by Jake's apology. Thankfully, if she was good at anything, it was keeping her reactions and emotions off of her face when she wanted to or had to and this situation kind of felt like both. She just kind of looked at him for a moment, because she had kind of accepted that he just hadn't cared anymore and was trying her best to not seem so heartbroken about that every time she had to exist in the world. But here her ex was saying he had noticed, even if it had been late. "I just wanted you to know I heard you and that regardless of what we are. I won't put you through that again." She said looking him in the eye, wanting him to understand that was was trying. Not just for him or for them, but because she didn't want to be some puppet her parents pulled the strings on. She wanted to be free. "So what's the serious stuff you wanted to talk about then?"

JAKE had spent days trying to understand why Bree had invited herself on his shopping excursion, or why she'd actually followed through and joined him, and it hadn't quite made sense. Sure, they were getting along to an extent, and she was always giving him shit about his clothes so it was the perfect chance for her to have a say in his wardrobe, but agreeing to go out in public with him had been a shock. Taking his own plate into his hands as he took in her explanation, he was sure that he would've dropped the food on the couch if he hadn't been gripping the plate as tightly as he was. "You know you don't owe me shit anymore, right?" He asked, though that was probably a stupid question considering she clearly saw things differently. Taking a bite out of his burger, Jake wasn't surprised that Bree was steering the conversation right to the serious stuff already. Damn, can't even let a man breathe and eat first? he thought to himself as he chewed his food down. So much for taking this slow. "I don't really know how to explain this, but...I guess having sex with you is how I show love. I'm not really sure how else you're supposed to show it, which with my parents, makes a whole lot of fucking sense, so being intimate with you is the only way I knew how to express it."

BREE put her share of the food on her plate and crossed her legs to have something to rest it on. "I'm aware. I didn't do it because I owe you. I did it because I wanted to not because I felt like I had to." And it had been a little... concerning that morning but as soon they were out and about she hadn't even thought about what it would look like or what if someone saw them. She was just, happy to be spending time with someone she wanted to spend time with. As Jake all but shoved a bite in his mouth, Bree ate a couple of fries before pouring her drink and taking a sip. Thankfully her hands were free, when Jake spoke, because of all the things she had been expecting, that hadn't even made the list. Honestly, she had forgotten she'd asked him about that until that moment. But it made sense, because since the physical aspect, and not just the sex but any level of physical closeness, was cut off in their relationship, Bree hadn't felt loved by Jake. Which maybe says something about how she received love or wanted to receive love. "I get it. When I said we needed to end the physical part of our relationship I was cutting off your main way of loving me." She said it more as a thought she happened to say out loud. "I'm sorry I did that. I should have realized sooner what your love looked like. And while I'm apologizing, I'm sorry I made you be my secret for so long and just expecting you to be okay with it. I'm sorry I made you watch me be publicly single. I'm sorry I never stood up for you or us to my parents. I'm sorry that I didn't see that I was hurting you, I'm sorry I never really looked. I love you but I see now that you couldn't have known that by how I was treating you." That was the first time she'd ever said it and she was just grateful he finally got to hear it. And if she didn't believe that crying undermined an apology, her face would be covered in snot and tears.

JAKE accepted that Bree had gone shopping with him because she wanted to, and it did make him feel...good, or something akin to that. He was grateful at the very least that she'd willingly wanted to do it, so at least they were taking small steps in the right direction. That was even more obvious with the way he'd confessed to some shit he hadn't exactly planned on just blurting out the second he sat down, but it was out there now and he couldn't take it back. And when Bree spoke up and believed him, with no sass and no attitude, he was both stunned and relieved. That was one less thing they'd have to fight about later, thankfully. He took another bite of his burger as it appeared to be her turn to start confessing whatever was on her heart, and he would have choked if he wasn't already swallowing back the food in his mouth as he took in the sea of sorries she was unleashing. It was rare for her to apologize at all, let alone back to back like this, so he did at least know she was being genuine. So he didn't interrupt her, deciding to let her finish before he put his plate down and turned to face her. "You know you could've just said all of this the night I told you I loved you, right?" He joked, deciding they should probably lighten the mood after all this serious ass shit. "But don't sweat it. I forgive you. And I know I've already apologized for it, but I'm sorry about the cheating thing. Honestly, maybe since I show love with sex, me having sex with someone else was to hurt you, to make you feel as neglected and small as I felt our entire relationship — especially since I didn't know exactly how you felt about me or us. I know that was fucked up, and I'm really sorry." Jake sighed. "But we're here now...so what the hell are we gonna do?"

BREE was suddenly nervous, even fidgeting a little with the hem of her skirt. But she did manage to keep eye contact so hopefully she didn't look as nervous as she felt, but even if she didn't Jake would probably know. She didn't even have time for her brain to start overthinking about it all before Jake said he forgave her. Again, she's not crying, but she probably would later when she was alone and replayed this entire interaction for the sixth time. While being forgiven was a relief she didn't even know she was waiting for, it was the overwhelming realization that she forgave him too. She wasn't mad at him anymore, and when she looked at him she didn't just see him with some other chick, she didn't feel pain or rage, she just missed him and wanted to be close to him again. That was a feeling she just hadn't been prepared for. By the time he had finished apologizing again, she just felt they were entirely too far apart. So she leaned forward, grabbed his plate of food and moved it to the coffee table, before getting up and sitting on his lap. Wrapping her arms around him for the first time, in what felt like a year, she smiled at him. Rarely was Bree soft around anyone, but Jake had always brought that side out of her in their quieter moments. "I forgive you." She said simply. "And I know we've got more to talk about probably but right now what you're going to do is kiss me." She said leaning into him a bit more.

JAKE hated the mushy shit, he truly did, yet he seemed to get that way when Bree wanted him to open up. And while he also wasn't a fan of having to just blurt out his goddamn feelings, it wasn't turning out to be a bad thing right now, thankfully. He did know that Bree had been waiting for him to be ready to talk, and just from the look in her eyes he could tell that she was relieved that they were getting it all out in the air. Expecting for her to say something back now, he furrowed his brows when instead she just moved to straddle his lap instead. He wouldn't complain about the position, but he was a little shocked that they'd jumped to this conclusion already. Letting his hands reach around and grab that perfect ass he loved so much, Jake wasn't the least bit surprised that she was asking - or demanding - a kiss. And he had denied her of enough already, so he simply nodded obediently. "You didn't have to sit on my dick for a kiss." He teased before he leaned in anyways and captured his girl's lips in a heated kiss.

[dadjokestop]

Get ready to hit a home run with these baseball jokes for kids! Whether you're at the ballpark, hanging out with friends, or just looking to add some fun to a baseball-themed party, these jokes are sure to bring smiles and laughter. So, grab your glove and let’s pitch some puns! Why Baseball Jokes Are a Home Run Baseball jokes are not only a great way to entertain but also help kids connect with the sport in a fun way. They can spark conversations, lighten the mood during games, and create memories with friends and family. Let’s step up to the plate with some fantastic baseball humor! 1. Why was the baseball team always cold? Because they kept walking into drafts! 2. What do you call a baseball player who throws the ball fast? A pitcher! 3. Why did the baseball player get arrested? Because he stole second base! 4. How does a baseball player keep his pants up? With a belt! 5. What do you get when you cross a baseball player with a tree? Root beer! 6. Why did the baseball player go to jail? He got caught stealing home! 7. What is a baseball player's favorite place to visit? Home plate! 8. Why did the baseball coach get kicked out of the game? He was always making bad calls! 9. What do you call a baseball game that never ends? *A long run! 10. Why did the baseball player bring a ladder? To reach the high score! 11. How do baseball players stay cool? They sit next to the fans! 12. What’s a baseball player’s favorite snack? Home run crackers! 13. Why are baseball players great at math? Because they know how to count on their bases! 14. What do you call a baseball player who plays music? A pitch-perfect musician! 15. Why was the baseball game a great place to tell a secret? Because nobody could hear the pitch! 16. What did the baseball say to the bat? “You crack me up!” 17. Why did the baseball player take a pencil to the game? To draw a walk! 18. What do you call a baseball player who tells jokes? A funny catcher! 19. Why did the baseball team bring string to the game? To tie the score! 20. What’s a baseball player’s favorite type of music? Swing! These baseball jokes for kids are sure to knock it out of the park! Share them with friends, family, or anyone who loves the game, and enjoy a good laugh together. Play ball!

[hetalia-club]

HESPN Pregame Coverage: Sunrise Stallions vs. Shadow Organization

Teams: Italy's Team: Sunrise Stallions Romano's Team: Shadow Organization

Good evening, sports fans! Welcome to the pregame debrief between the Sunrise Stallions and the Shadow Organization. We're broadcasting live from Sunny Stadium in Venice, Italy, where two brothers, Italy and Romano, will lead their teams in a battle for bragging rights. This is more than just a game—it's a clash of styles, strategies, and sibling rivalry. Let's break down the teams and see what we can expect tomorrow where it will be a home game for Italy determined by a coin flip.

Team Overview: Sunrise Stallions First up, we have the Sunrise Stallions, led by the ever-optimistic Italy. This team is as vibrant as their red, orange, and yellow uniforms. Italy has put together a lineup going for over all experience and power.

Captain Spotlight: Italy (#11) - ‘Ferrari’ Italy is not just the captain, he's the heartbeat of this team. He normally starts out as Center Field but tonight on his team he is the starting pitcher. As a pitcher, he’s known for his finesse on the mound, using control and craftiness to keep hitters off balance. His speed is unmatched in the league, earning him the nickname 'Ferrari.' He’s a player who can change the game with his legs just as much as with his arm."

Key Players to Watch:

America (#01) - ‘The Show’ (Shortstop): America is the star power in this lineup, known for his confidence and ability to deliver in clutch situations. He can also step in as a pitcher, providing a powerful, high-velocity option on the mound. Fans love him, and he’s always in the spotlight. America was also selected as the sub in pitcher if Italy's arm get's tried, though Italy did state in an interview he wanted to try and pitch the entire game and would base himself.

Prussia (#02) - ‘Teutonic Titan’ (Right Field): Prussia is a bit of a wildcard. After a disappointing performance in a previous game, where he cost Japan a crucial victory, he’s back in the field with something to prove. Expect him to be highly motivated and eager to redeem himself. This game will be his redemption round.

Spain (#12) - ‘Matador’ (Left Field): Spain brings passion and power to the Stallions. His hitting style is aggressive, much like a bull in the ring, and he’s known for his ability to knock the ball out of the park.

Team Overview: Shadow Organization On the other side, we have the Shadow Organization, captained by Romano. This team embodies stealth and strategy, with their midnight purple and blaze orange colors reflecting their cunning and fiery determination. Romano has assembled a group that’s as unpredictable as they are dangerous."

Captain Spotlight: Romano (#16) - ‘Mouth’ Romano, known for his fiery temper and trash-talking, is a pitcher who plays with a chip on his shoulder. He’s already been suspended once this year for fighting with a ref, so you know he’s itching to prove himself tonight. Normalcy playing first base, Romano said he's going to try his hand at pitching this game to prove he's just as good if not 'better' than his brother.

Key Players to Watch:

Nyo!America (#01) - ‘Home Run Heroine’ (Shortstop): "Nyo!America is a powerhouse in her own right. With a knack for hitting home runs at the most critical moments, she’s a player the Stallions will need to keep a close eye on. Her leadership and energy make her a force to be reckoned with."

Sweden (#92) - Right Field: "Sweden is a defensive stalwart with a strong arm and sharp instincts. He’s reliable in the outfield and can change the course of a game with his defensive plays. His presence in right field makes him a key player for the Shadow Organization."

Japan (#08) - ‘The Tsunami’ (1st Base/Sub Pitcher): "Japan is the team’s tactical genius, known for his speed, power, and precision. He’s small in stature but big in impact, both at the plate and in the field. As a sub pitcher, he can step in and dominate with his disciplined approach and sharp control."

Prediction: I think the game will come down to who can manage the pressure better. Romano’s Shadow Organization might have the edge in terms of raw power, but if Italy’s Stallions can capitalize on their speed and Italy’s finesse pitching, they could pull off the win. It’s going to be a thrilling matchup either way, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s decided in the final innings. One player picked a team based on skill and knowledge while the other picked teh team purely on chemistry and vibes. Let's see who picked the better team tomorrow night!

[luminousvision]

Thirty-Two

Mom and I climb the outdoor stairs, skirt around to the other side, and knock on the cracked wooden door of the one other Korean mom in the neighborhood. I carry my one precious box of Legos into the living room floor where the enormous fourth-grade Kenny sits with dozens of action figures scattered on a discolored carpet. We look at each other and don’t say hi but mom gives me a gentle push. They hurry to the kitchen table where they whisper in voices raised half an octave. They will talk for hours over a plate of cut fruit. I open my box and build my best Lego bridge but it doesn’t stand upright. Kenny makes funny noises with his action figures, making them say something in English. Mom brings me a small plate with sliced apples and hands me an action figure. I wiggle its arm. Once mom leaves, I hand the plastic toy back to Kenny who doesn’t say anything and goes back to smashing the figures together. 

We leave their apartment with a stack of clothes. Mom is beaming. At home, she takes the top item, an enormous green sweater, and puts it on me. She tells me in Korean to thank Kenny the next time I see him.

Outside, our neighbor’s ancient Volvo parks in front of our even older BMW. I ask to go play. Eat first, mom says. I quickly empty the bowls of kimchi and rice and run out back where Valentina and Evol poke the weedy pasture with sticks. I smile and say hi. Valentina says hi and Evol babbles. Their big dad with gray hairs reclines in a dusty plastic chair with a whiff of purple left in it. He’s smoking a cigarette, just like dad does when mom isn’t watching. He says something to us in a language that is not English.

Valentina hands me a stick and points to a hole in the ground. Evol shows us that it’s about as big as his head but Valentina pulls him out by his soiled collar. She pushes some dirt out with her stick and looks at me. I join them. After a minute, I run to grab the tricycle with only one foot pedal left. I roll it to the hole and motion for them to step back. I put the trike on its side, stick the one pedal into the hole, and spin the wheel. Evol squeals and puts his hands on the wheel too. Valentina says something I cannot understand. She rotates the trike upright, puts the wheel in the hole instead, and spins the handle. It’s not working, I tell her in Korean. She talks over me, so I let her keep trying. Evol giggles.

Far across the dirt field, we hear a thunderous crash and the pitter-patter of wood and rubble falling to the ground. We drop our sticks. A giant wrecking ball and other construction vehicles demolish an apartment building that looks just like ours, except the once white paint is now quite gray. Valentina and Evol return to their hole, but I sprint across the field. Their dad hollers at me, so I stop halfway. There’s a green fence perimeter up ahead anyway. The machines munch through the apartment, door by door. I turn back, wave at my friends, and run through my kitchen door. I spill my lego bucket, cobble plastic bricks together into my best house, and find a giant inflatable ball to throw at it. Mom finds me and gets upset with the dirt all over the carpet so she fills our big plastic kimchi bucket with hot water from the sink, puts me in it, and washes me down.

Each week, the machines finish an apartment block and move to the next one. I learn how to count beyond the 10-by-10 number grid at school by the time they reach ‘112’, painted boldly on each side of the building. I announce to my surprised parents, in English, that we live in ’32’. Valentina and Evol live in ’33’. The apartment blocks count down all the way to ‘1’ at the entrance of the complex. ‘1’ is nice and white. ’32’ is light gray and the apartments in the hundreds are dark gray. Otherwise, they are exactly alike.

After dinner, Dad and I stand in the late summer sun watching the machines attack ‘105’. I hug the enormous dark oak in our back yard. I ask how old it is. It’s very old, he says. How old, I ask again. Give me a number, I say. Dad says he doesn’t know. Maybe a hundred years. A hundred years? That’s a long time. Dad says I can cut the tree to count the rings to know exactly how old a tree is. I ask if we can cut the tree down to check but he says no.

I like our big tree very much, but that night, the tree chases me. I scream and run. I only wanted to know how old it was. I wake up in darkness, stuck in a hole in our wall. Mom and dad help me out and talk about what to do. Dad grabs a pair of scissors and cuts out the big side of the Lucky Charms box. The gray cardboard is almost the same color as the wall. Mom puts a ring of duct tape around it. The tree chases me again from time to time, but the tape always holds strong.

Mom tells me Kenny is moving. I just nod, but she seems sad. Separately, she later tells me Valentina and Evol are also moving. Valentina and I cry together in the yard and Evol joins us. The green fence grows like ivy across the weedy field, now surrounding ’97' and ’96’.

Soon after, I put my Lego bin into a big cardboard box. They’ll be safe in here, mom says. Clothes go into that one, silverware and plates fit there with the newspapers. I have not seen the ancient Volvo in a week and the curbside is missing most of the other cars usually there. Dad starts the U-Haul while mom pokes under the hood of the BMW until the ignition fires. In the distance, the machines chew through the walls of ’94’. I was born in ’94. I wave at the big backyard tree peeking out above the cracked roof tiles. Its tall branches wave back.

[jrpneblog]

Flying High

As we go into the first international break of the season North End sit proudly at the top of the Championship table thanks to a 2-0 victory at the bet365 Stadium. No trophies are given out in the first week of September, of course, but points in the bag are always a huge bonus early on in the season. The win at Stoke came courtesy of two goals from Will Keane, one from the penalty spot, and some very solid defending by the whole Preston eleven late on in the game. The first period was a half of few chances but North End matched their previously unbeaten at home opponents and were good value for the 0-0 at the interval. After the break the North End moved up a gear and were rewarded after Holmes had been brought down and Keane slotted home from the spot. Just over five minutes later it was two with a superbly worked goal down the right. From then on North End dropped anchor but held on quite comfortably for the three points in front of almost 23,000 inside the Stadium.

Ryan Lowe made two changes from the side that beat Swansea at Deepdale last week with McCann and Whatmough coming in at the expense of Best and Holmes. Stoke started on the front foot getting the ball out to their wide men as quickly and as often as possible. Alan Browne had North End`s first chance and Stoke then almost conceded an own goal via Stevens. The home side were enjoying the majority of possession but North End were quite comfortable dealing with what the Potters had to throw at them. Will Keane was ploughing a lonely furrow up front but never stopped working the whole time he was on the field. Stoke had their best period of the game in the two minutes leading up to half time but North End saw then off and went in deservedly level at the break.

The manager decided to bring Duane Holmes on after the interval and it wasnt long before that tactical decision had worked wonders for the Whites. Early in the second half Holmes cut in from the right and as he weaved inside the box a trailing leg brought him down with the referee immediately awarding a penalty. Keane stepped up and smashed the ball down the middle, past Travers, to give North End the lead much to the delight of the 2,586 travelling fans in the away end. Six minutes later North End doubled their lead when a superb ball down the right hand side from Potts found Holmes behind the defender. The ex-Huddersfield man cut inside and laid it on a plate for Will Keane who converted from three yards out to make it two. North End clearly thought that two was enough and kept the visitors at bay for much of the rest of the game without Stoke really looking like they were going to beat Freddie Woodman. Despite a big majority of the late possession Stoke couldn`t find a way through and North End were taking the points back up the M6.

So a really good performance all over the Park from the boys and huge credit to the manager for the tactical switch at half time. For the second consecutive week Ryan Lowe`s changes have won North End the points and although Lowe has had his critics I think his tactics have been excellent so far this season especially when we have only got one senior striker fit. I suppose we can now look at the table with some comfort for a fortnight but when you are at the top everyone will want to knock you off. Plymouth will be the visitors to Deepdale in two weeks time and what a game that promises to be with Lowe`s old club looking to put one over on his new club. Let`s just hope the break does not knock us out of our stride and we can continue where we left off on Saturday and that is right at the top of the Championship table.

.

STOKE CITY 0-2 PRESTON

.

WOODMAN 8

STOREY 7 WHATMOUGH 7 LINDSAY 7

POTTS 7 LEDSON 7 McCANN 8 HUGHES 7

FROKJAER 7 BROWNE 7

KEANE 8

.

Subs:

HOLMES 8

CUNNINGHAM 7

WOODBURN 7

.

MOTM: Ali McCann

Attendance 22,957

Preston Fans 2,586 (11.26%)

[delcakoo]

彡 compromise. - p.sh

requested for 1k au event!

SUMMARY ! being roomates with the biggest (and hottest) slacker on campus was difficult to say the least. plates left on the counter, clothes from him and the girl’s he brings over left in the living room, the list goes on. one day after you’ve had enough of his uncleanliness, sunghoon offers you to be his girlfriend in exchange for a tidy, mess-free apartment. totally not worth it.. right?

PAIRING ! roommate!sunghoon x f!reader

WC ! 2.1k

GENRE ! roomates au, fake dating, fluff (?) and lots of banter

WARNINGS ! slight suggestive, making out, sunghoon being a bit too confident for his own good

a/n: woohooo first fic for the event done! thank you for requesting anon! <3

if you go into the living room and find another one of park sunghoon’s socks on your couch, you might just explode.

you take a deep breath in, and out. the moment of truth. you slam open the door to your sunghoon-proof bedroom, taking quick paces towards the living room and—

there it is.

a sad, lonely sock without it’s matching pair laid on your couch. you knew it.

park sunghoon. one of the most sought after guys on campus, yet it was only his first year of college.

meanwhile, it was your third. so how you became roommates with him? one, tragic answer: you were broke and desperate for someone to split rent with after a few.. unfortunate incidents with your past roommates.

sunghoon wasn’t a bad person. he did little things like pick up your forgotten mail, or turn on your coffee machine while you got ready in the bathroom. though, you'd still say he ranked number one on your list of the worst roommates you’ve ever had.

he was lazy, irresponsible, and oh so messy. 80% of the time, while you were busy being productive and studying, he was busy tackling people with a ball under his arm or in the middle of coaxing some girl to come home with him after partying all night (which didn’t take much effort on his part considering that face of his).

now, you weren’t a hater. sunghoon got into this university with his talent for football alone, so props to him for.. catching balls. honestly, if he wasn’t the way he was, you’d probably fall for his handsome charms yourself. but when his annoying, mosquito-like presence decided to intervene with the peaceful sanctuary that was once your neat and homely apartment, all wrath was destined to come out of you at some point.

for a while, you were nice enough to clean up after the younger boy, making pathetic excuses for him in your head in an effort to be a kind, forgiving roomate.

but after a month of dealing with his unwashed plates left on the counter, clothes scattered around the living room from not only him but also the girls he brings over, and all in all his untidiness everyday, you’ve finally snapped.

this feeling of undeniable rage may partially be because of how stressed you are from all the new assignments and lack of coffee, but you’ve never felt more ready for confrontation by the time you’ve reached sunghoon’s bedroom door.

you offer two passive aggressive knocks, not even waiting for a reply before yanking the door open. “look sunghoon— we have to talk.”

nobody.

you take a few cautious steps inside his disarrayed bedroom, nose wrinkling at the sight of a mountain of clothes near his bed despite a closet being a few steps over. there’s random magazines and papers scattered across the floor, along with an unkempt stash of trinkets thrown on top of his drawer. you glance at his closet, half opened and containing only about two jackets actually hung up on racks.

“woah, never thought i’d find the campus nun snooping around my bedroom.” you whip your head around to find a shirtless sunghoon staring down at you, toothbrush perkily sticking out of his mouth. his muscled biceps flex as he crosses his arms, raising a curious brow at the sock pinched between your nails.

your eyes bulge at the sight of his bare, sculpted torso, turning around with a tint of red rushing to your ears. “just because i don’t spend every night getting wasted doesn’t make me a nun, nor was i snooping,” you spit defensively.

sunghoon chuckles, padding across his room to pick up a random top off his shirt mountain. “says the girl who just covered her eyes like she’s never seen a shirtless guy before.” he smirks, glancing down at your childish bear printed pajamas. “i mean — not that i think you have.”

you spin back around, huffing in relief now that he was dressed and pointing to the sock in your hand. “shut up, i’m only here to listen to your amazing explanation on why i keep finding socks and other assortments of clothing all over the living— hey! don’t walk away when i’m talking to you!”

you frustratedly discard the sock somewhere on his bed, following your roommate back out to where he’s now rummaging through the kitchen pantry, toothbrush long forgotten on the sink’s rim. you take another deep breath, trying to stay calm. “sunghoon,” you begin.

“yeah, pretty girl?” your eye twitches in disbelief, hating the way butterflies flutter through your stomach from the nickname he’s always called you.

“i told you, don’t fucking call me that. now listen here,” you try to look stern, but sunghoon personally believes you look adorable. “i’ve been dealing with your bullshit all month without a single complaint,” you rant, watching as he pulls out a box of cinnamon toast crunch. “do you ever wonder how all those plates and bowls you leave in the sink magically disappear? yeah, well, that was me slaving my ass away like your personal housemaid!”

your roomate is completely unphased by your vent, too busy pouring his cereal into an empty bowl with a shrug. “nobody told you to clean those for me.”

moments like these made you question how you’ve dealt with the bastard for a whole month.

“if i don’t, they begin piling up into a jenga tower,” you fire back with a scoff, “similar to the wonderful sorting technique used in your bedroom.”

unbelievably, the boy giggles at that, taking a seat at the counter with his late night snack. “y’know, you’re pretty funny when you’re not locked up in your room all day.” your jaw tightens, snatching the milk away right as your roomate reaches out for it. he looks at you as if you just committed a crime, lips turning into a defeated (but adorable) pout. “hey, i’m trying to have cereal here.”

“sunghoon,” you snarl once more, holding the carton above his head like a parent would with a child’s toy.

“what?” he whines.

“if you don’t start doing shit around here, i’m kicking you out.”

instead of a dramatic gasp or begs for mercy and forgiveness like you’d hoped for, he snickers, pouncing up like a cat and snatching the milk back out of your grip. “yeah, right. as if you could afford this apartment by yourself.”

silence (besides the sound of sunghoon chewing his cinnamon toast crunch).

out of the corner of his eye, sunghoon sees your face drop in utter defeat. you look close to the verge of tears, knuckles turning white by your sides. yes, he may be a jerk sometimes, but he wasn’t that evil. his eyes softened slightly, letting out a thoughtful sigh as he munched on his spoonful of cereal.

suddenly, a lightbulb appears atop his head, smirking brilliantly. “okay, being the handsome genius i am, i’ve come up with an offer — a compromise, you could say.”

you didn’t know your roommate that well considering it’s only been a month since you’ve met, but you were confident that any ideas his pea-sized brain came up with weren’t going to be very good ones in your favor. you offer him a raise of your brow, gesturing for him to continue.

dropping his silver spoon back into the bowl, sunghoon rests his elbows up on the counter. “in exchange for ‘doing shit around here’, you have to be my girlfriend.”

you choke on your saliva, giving him a dumbfounded expression. “what!?”

“hear me out!” he quickly defends, “my parents are planning to set me up with this weird, artsy church girl, and i just can’t allow that to happen for my reputation sake. you’re my only hope, pretty.”

“first of all, you were basically calling me a nerd a few minutes ago, so i don’t see how i’d be any better than her. and what exactly would i have to do as your fake girlfriend— if i metaphorically took you up on this deal?”

sunghoon ignores the first half of your statement with no explanation. “well, probably have dinner with my family every once in a while, hold my hand, kiss me-“

you stumble slightly. “woah, woah- what?! why would we kiss in front of your parents?” you inquire stressfully, the thought of kissing sunghoon making your heart beat much faster than it should.

though honestly, this compromise sounded like a win-win in your book. finally, no more socks found on the couch or plate mountains in your sink, and getting to fake date park sunghoon along the way? you make sure not to give in just yet — you don’t need the guy’s ego skyrocketing any higher than it was — but you were feeling pretty great.

“to prove we’re serious, duh.” sunghoon rolls his eyes at your question, suddenly turning in the barstool to face you. “c’mon, let’s practise now.”

huh? wait, practise what?

does he mean—

you step away from the counter nervously, only to be pulled back by sunghoon’s grip on your wrist. he has a barely noticeable, smug smirk on his face at your sudden nervousness, grasping your hand tightly in his bigger one. “hey, i never said yes to the deal yet,” you gulp.

taking a leap of faith, sunghoon leans further in, his pointy nose touching yours. his breath tickles your lips, and you hate the way his closeness affects you. now you understand why no girl on campus could resist him; it was seemingly impossible.

“why not, baby? are you scared of having to kiss me? is that why you don’t want to say yes?” he teases, reaching his free hand up to softly run a thumb along your plush lips. for some reason, you don’t move away from his surprisingly gentle touch.

“n-no. i’m not scared of you, sunghoon.”

his smirk deepens in pure amusement. “then kiss me,” he encourages, calmly waiting for you to make the first move.

you take one last look at him. his slightly disheveled hair, the moles scattered perfectly along his features even more delicate up close. down to his curved nose, rubbing against the tip of yours affectionately. and lastly, his enchanting pink lips, just begging to be kissed by you.

so you do. before you can stop yourself, you’re kissing park sunghoon. the boy you were just scolding for his constant messes. the boy who was known and loved by your whole college, his reputation lying at the highest amongst everyone’s standards.

but it didn’t matter, in that moment, he was just sunghoon, your lazy, ridiculously hot roommate.

sunghoon finally frees your wrist, allowing you to reach up and rest your arms around his shoulders. to no surprise, he’s definitely the best kiss you’ve ever had, full of experience and confidence. the taste of cinnamon toast crunch runs through your senses, only furthering as he runs a tongue along your bottom lip, begging for entrance.

feeling playful, you refuse, making sunghoon grunt in annoyance. he pulls away for a second to glare at you. “that’s how you wanna be, huh? let me show you who’s in charge around here, then.”

before you can ponder on what that meant, his lips are back on yours more fierce than ever, standing up from his seat to force you right against the counter.

as you try to get comfortable in the new position, he harshly pinches your side. in a moment of surprise at his attack, you gasp, lips parting and giving sunghoon the perfect opportunity to force his tongue right into your mouth and explore every crevice of you.

it’s hard to keep up with sunghoon, he was much too intense for you. so you gently push him away, catching your breath hastily. when you finally look up at him, his lips are swollen, slightly wet and chapped.

it seems he understands that you want to stop here, so he moves back, giving you some space. “i.. i came here to scold you about your socks. how did this happen?” you ask to mostly yourself.

“my charms are irresistible.” sunghoon lets out a laugh, walking backwards towards his bedroom. “so, starting tomorrow you’re my girlfriend, okay pretty girl?”

still trying to calm your racing heart, you offer a small, defeated glance to your roommate. “yeah, whatever, pretty boy.” he smiles brightly at his newly earned nickname, turning around before closing his bedroom door for the night.

with a sigh, you glance back around only to find sunghoon’s half eaten bowl of cinnamon toast crunch, soggy and abandoned on the counter.

this deal wasn’t going to change anything, was it?

if you enjoyed, reblogs n’ comments are always appreciated and motivating!

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