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moon3verland · 3 months ago

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The Final Lap L.HS

·˚ ◌༘₊· ͟͞꒰➳Lee Heeseung x Fem!Reader GENRE! Tooth-rotting Fluff!! Very light angst ✎SYNOPSIS! In the underground scene of illegal motorcycle racing, (Name) and Heeseung have always had an exciting but unclear relationship. During Heeseung's riskiest race to date, feelings intensify, resulting in a moment that changes their connection for good.〘WC: 2.7k〙『 ↳✧･ﾟ Warnings ; Illegal Activities ↳˳;; ❝ ʙᴏᴏᴋꜱʜᴇʟꜰᵕ̈೫

The air was thick with the scent of gasoline and adrenaline, the hum of motorcycle engines filling the alleyway. (Name) stood at the edge of the crowd, watching as Heeseung leaned against his bike, a confident grin on his face. He looked like he belonged there—cool, collected, his dark eyes scanning the crowd until they landed on her. His grin softened, and he pushed off the bike, making his way over to her with a casual swagger. More Undercut

“Hey,” he greeted, his voice low and smooth. “Didn’t think you’d make it tonight.”

“I told you I’d be here,” she replied, trying to keep her tone light despite the rapid beating of her heart. “Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

Heeseung’s grin widened, and he reached out, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. “Glad to hear it. I like having you around, you know.”

A blush crept up her cheeks, and she looked away, trying to hide her smile. “Yeah, well, someone’s got to make sure you don’t do anything stupid.”

He laughed, a deep, genuine sound that sent a shiver down her spine. “You know me too well.”

She smiled, but there was an underlying tension in her chest. She had been coming to these races for weeks now, watching Heeseung push himself to the limit, flirting with danger at every turn. She knew how much he loved it—the thrill, the speed, the competition—but it scared her. She couldn’t help but worry every time he got on that bike, her heart in her throat until he crossed the finish line.

“I do know you,” she replied softly, her eyes meeting his. “And that’s what scares me.”

Heeseung’s smile faltered, and he took a step closer, his expression turning serious. “Hey, I’m careful,” he said, his voice gentle. “I promise.”

“I know,” she whispered, her fingers twisting together nervously. “But it doesn’t make it any easier.”

Heeseung reached out, taking her hands in his, his thumb rubbing soothing circles over her knuckles. “I don’t want you to worry about me,” he murmured. “I want you to trust me. Can you do that?” She hesitated for a moment, her eyes searching his. "I’ll try," she finally said, her voice barely audible over the noise of the crowd. Her words were sincere, but her heart was still heavy with uncertainty. She wanted to trust him, to believe that he would always come out of these races unscathed, but the fear lingered.

“Good,” Heeseung replied, his grip tightening on her hands as if to reassure her. “Because I’ve got something planned for us after the race. Something special.”

She raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in her eyes. “Special? Are you going to give me a hint, or do I have to wait?”

His grin returned, the playful spark she was so familiar with lighting up his features. “You’ll just have to be patient,” he teased, leaning in closer, his breath warm against her ear. “But I promise, you’re going to love it.”

Before she could respond, the sound of engines revving louder filled the air. The announcer’s voice boomed through the speakers, calling the racers to the starting line. Heeseung released her hands, his expression shifting back to the serious, determined look he wore whenever he was about to race. He turned to walk away, but stopped, glancing back at her one more time.

“Just stay right there,” he said, nodding towards the spot where she stood. “I want to see you as soon as I cross that finish line.”

(Name) nodded, biting her lower lip to keep from smiling too wide. “I’m not going anywhere,” she assured him.

Heeseung winked at her, then turned and jogged towards his bike, slipping his helmet on as he went. He mounted the bike with the ease of someone who had done it a thousand times before, his body settling into a familiar rhythm as he revved the engine a few times, testing it. The sound was deafening, the crowd around them cheering and shouting, but all (Name) could focus on was the figure of Heeseung on that bike, his silhouette backlit by the streetlights.

Her heart thudded heavily in her chest, anxiety twisting in her stomach as the countdown began. She held her breath, her eyes locked on him, silently praying that everything would be alright.

The flag dropped, and the bikes shot forward like bullets from a gun. Heeseung was quick off the line, immediately taking an aggressive stance as he maneuvered around the other racers. His movements were fluid and precise, each turn calculated, each acceleration deliberate. He made it look easy, but (Name) knew just how much focus and skill it took to handle a bike like that at those speeds.

As they rounded the first corner, Heeseung was already pulling ahead, his bike weaving in and out of the competitors with an almost dangerous grace. She felt her breath catch in her throat, her eyes wide as she watched him navigate the tight turns and sharp curves of the makeshift track. The other racers were close behind, but he kept his lead, pushing harder, faster.

But then, out of nowhere, one of the other racers—a newcomer she hadn’t seen before, riding a sleek black motorcycle—cut sharply across the track, trying to overtake Heeseung. Her heart jumped into her throat as she watched the two bikes come dangerously close to colliding, her hands instinctively reaching up to cover her mouth.

Heeseung didn’t flinch. He swerved expertly to avoid the collision, but the move cost him some of his speed. The black bike took the lead, and for a moment, (Name) felt a wave of fear wash over her. She could see the determination in Heeseung’s posture, the way he leaned forward, urging his bike to go faster. He wasn’t going to let this newcomer beat him.

With a surge of speed, Heeseung closed the gap, his bike roaring as he accelerated. The two racers were neck and neck, the crowd screaming and cheering as they tore down the final stretch. (Name)’s heart was in her throat, her hands trembling with nerves. She knew how much this race meant to Heeseung—how much he needed this win.

In a daring move, Heeseung leaned into the final turn, cutting sharply to the inside. The newcomer tried to block him, but Heeseung was quicker, slipping past with inches to spare. The crowd went wild, and (Name) felt a surge of pride and relief. He was almost there—just a few more seconds, and he would cross the finish line.

But then, something happened.

A loud bang echoed through the air, and Heeseung’s bike wobbled. (Name) felt her heart stop, her breath catching in her throat as she saw the back tire blow out. Heeseung fought to keep control, his muscles straining, his face a mask of concentration. Time seemed to slow down, each second stretching into eternity as he struggled to steady the bike.

For a terrifying moment, it looked like he was going to crash. The bike swerved wildly, skidding on the asphalt. (Name) could hear the gasps and shouts from the crowd, could feel the panic rising in her chest. She wanted to scream, to run out onto the track and stop him, but she was frozen, her eyes locked on Heeseung.

But somehow, against all odds, he managed to regain control. Heeseung leaned hard to the right, guiding the bike back on course. He was losing speed fast, the other racers zooming past him, but he didn’t give up. With a final burst of effort, he pushed the bike forward, crossing the finish line seconds behind the newcomer.

The crowd erupted into a mix of cheers and gasps, and (Name) felt a wave of relief so intense it left her dizzy. She pushed through the crowd, rushing towards him as he brought the bike to a halt, his chest heaving with exertion. He pulled off his helmet, and for a moment, he just sat there, his face pale, his breath coming in sharp gasps.

“Heeseung!” she called out, her voice breaking with emotion as she reached him. “Are you okay?”

He looked up, his eyes meeting hers, and he managed a small, tired smile. “Yeah,” he panted, nodding. “I’m fine… just a little shaken up.”

(Name) felt tears pricking at her eyes, and she reached out, pulling him into a tight hug. “You scared me,” she whispered, her voice trembling. “I thought… I thought you were going to crash.”

Heeseung hugged her back, his arms wrapping around her waist, holding her close. “I’m sorry,” he murmured against her hair. “I didn’t mean to scare you. I’m okay, I promise.”

She pulled back slightly, her hands framing his face, her eyes searching his. “Don’t do that again,” she said, her voice firm. “Don’t take risks like that.”

Heeseung’s smile softened, and he nodded. “I’ll try,” he promised. “For you, I’ll try.”

And in that moment, with the noise of the crowd fading into the background and the cool night air surrounding them, (Name) realized just how much he meant to her—how much she cared about him, how much she didn’t want to lose him. It wasn’t just a situationship anymore. Not for her.

Heeseung seemed to sense the shift in her emotions, his thumb brushing over her cheek as he gazed at her. “Come on,” he said softly, “let’s get out of here. I still have that surprise for you.”

She nodded, swallowing hard, trying to steady her racing heart. Heeseung took her hand, leading her away from the crowd, down a quieter side street. As they walked, the tension slowly began to dissipate, replaced by a growing sense of anticipation.

After a few minutes, they arrived at an old garage tucked away at the edge of town. Heeseung led her inside, flipping on the lights to reveal a motorcycle that looked almost brand new, its chrome shining under the fluorescent lights.

“This is it?” she asked, raising an eyebrow.

Heeseung nodded, a grin spreading across his face. “Yeah, but it’s not just any bike. This is ours. I’ve been working on it for weeks, fixing it up. I wanted to take you on a trip… just you and me. No races, no crowd. Just us.”

(Name) stared at the bike, her heart swelling with emotion. “You did all this… for me?”

Heeseung’s smile softened, and he stepped closer, taking her hands in his. “For us,” he corrected gently. “Because I want more than just this… more than just the races and the adrenaline. I want to be with you. Really be with you.”

Tears filled her eyes, and she nodded, a smile breaking across her face. “I’d like that,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

Heeseung leaned in, pressing his forehead against hers. “Then let’s get out of here,” he murmured, his lips brushing against hers in a soft, lingering kiss. “Let’s find out what’s waiting for us on the open road.” They climbed onto the bike, (Name) settling in behind Heeseung, her arms instinctively wrapping around his waist. The engine roared to life, vibrating beneath them as Heeseung gave the throttle a twist. She could feel his heartbeat steadying against her chest, could feel the tension in his shoulders relax as they pulled away from the garage and onto the open road.

The cool night air whipped around them, carrying away the last remnants of the adrenaline from the race. The city lights blurred as they sped down the empty streets, the wind rushing past them, their surroundings turning into a mix of dark shadows and flickering lights. The feeling was exhilarating, but different from the races—there was no pressure, no crowd watching, no danger lurking at every corner. It was just the two of them, the road, and the hum of the engine beneath them.

(Name) rested her cheek against his back, closing her eyes for a moment, letting the calm wash over her. She hadn’t realized how much she needed this—just being with him, away from the chaos of the races, where it felt like nothing else mattered. Heeseung’s hands were steady on the handlebars, his posture relaxed as he navigated the winding roads with ease. She could feel the tension in her chest easing with every mile they covered.

After a while, they left the city behind, the buildings thinning out as they headed towards the hills. The moon hung low in the sky, casting a soft, silvery glow over the landscape. Heeseung slowed down as they reached a narrow, tree-lined road, the air filled with the scent of pine and fresh earth.

He pulled over to the side, cutting the engine, and they came to a gentle stop at a small clearing overlooking the city below. The silence was almost deafening after the roar of the engine, and (Name) took a deep breath, filling her lungs with the crisp, cool air.

Heeseung turned to look at her, his eyes soft in the moonlight. “This is where I come when I need to clear my head,” he said quietly, gesturing to the view in front of them. “I thought… maybe you’d like it, too.”

She followed his gaze, her eyes widening as she took in the sight. The city sprawled out below them, a sea of twinkling lights stretching as far as the eye could see. It was beautiful, almost magical, and she felt her heart swell with emotion.

“It’s perfect,” she whispered, her voice barely louder than the breeze rustling through the leaves.

Heeseung smiled, his hand reaching out to take hers. “I wanted to share it with you,” he said, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. “To show you a piece of me that’s not just the racing, the speed… all that noise.”

She turned to look at him, her heart skipping a beat at the sincerity in his eyes. “Thank you,” she murmured, squeezing his hand. “For trusting me with this.”

Heeseung’s gaze softened, and he leaned in, his lips brushing against her forehead in a gentle, lingering kiss. “I trust you more than anyone,” he whispered against her skin. “And I want you to know that, no matter what… I’ll always come back to you.”

Tears pricked at her eyes, and she blinked them away, her smile bright and unrestrained. “I know,” she replied, her voice trembling slightly. “And I’ll always be here, waiting for you.”

Heeseung’s lips curled into a small smile, and he leaned back, pulling her into his arms. They sat there in silence for a long moment, just holding each other, the world around them fading into the background. For the first time in a long while, (Name) felt at peace.

Eventually, Heeseung pulled back slightly, his eyes searching hers. “So, about that trip,” he began, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Where do you want to go first?”

(Name) laughed, a light, airy sound that felt good in her chest. “Anywhere,” she replied, her smile growing wider. “As long as it’s with you.”

Heeseung chuckled, his hand lifting to cup her cheek. “Then let’s go find out,” he murmured, leaning in to capture her lips in a slow, tender kiss. She melted against him, her arms winding around his neck, her heart fluttering in her chest.

When they finally pulled away, breathless and smiling, Heeseung nodded towards the bike. “Ready?” he asked, his eyes twinkling with excitement.

(Name) nodded, her heart racing for an entirely different reason now. “Ready,” she confirmed, her voice filled with certainty.

Heeseung’s smile widened, and he started the bike once more, the engine purring to life. As they pulled away from the clearing and back onto the road, (Name) couldn’t help but feel that this was just the beginning—a new chapter, a new adventure, one filled with possibilities she hadn’t dared to imagine before.

The road stretched out ahead of them, endless and inviting, and for the first time, (Name) felt truly free. With her arms wrapped around Heeseung, her heart light and her spirit soaring, she knew that whatever came next, they would face it together.

And that was enough.

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moon3verland · 12 days ago

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Offside Love S.JK

·˚ ◌༘₊· ͟͞꒰➳ Sim Jaeyun (Jake) x Fem!Reader GENRE! Angst, Hurt/Comfort ✎SYNOPSIS! Jake Sim, the star soccer player, is dating (Name), but she feels insecure because of his many female fans, including the popular bully Hyeri. As Hyeri and her friends secretly bully (Name), Jake remains unaware, straining their relationship.〘WC:8.5k 〙『 ↳✧･ﾟ Warnings ; Bullying ↳˳;; ❝ ʙᴏᴏᴋꜱʜᴇʟꜰᵕ̈೫

The late afternoon sun bathed the campus of Decelis University in a warm, golden hue. The sound of distant chatter and laughter filled the air as (Name) walked through the bustling courtyard, her backpack slung over one shoulder. She had always loved this time of day, when classes were done, and the campus felt alive with energy. But today, her mind was elsewhere—fixated on a single person. More Undercut

Jake Sim.

The thought of him made her heart flutter. He was her boyfriend, after all, but sometimes it felt surreal. Jake was the golden boy of Decelis—star soccer player, popular, and effortlessly charming. Everyone knew his name; everyone wanted to be around him. He was the kind of guy who could light up a room with just a smile.

And he had chosen her.

It seemed like a dream at first. They’d met in a shared literature class, and at first, (Name) had only known him as the guy who sat at the back, half-listening with his cap pulled low over his forehead. But then, one day, they were paired together for a group project, and everything changed. He wasn’t the aloof jock she’d expected; he was funny, attentive, and surprisingly sweet.

Now, a few months into their relationship, (Name) still found herself wondering how she’d gotten so lucky. But with that luck came a creeping sense of insecurity she couldn’t quite shake. She wasn’t blind to the attention Jake got. Girls constantly hovered around him at practice, in the cafeteria, and even during their walks across campus. It was hard not to notice.

She wasn’t the jealous type—at least, she hadn’t been before. But Jake was special, and she couldn’t help but feel a little anxious about all the attention he received.

She entered the library and made her way to their usual study table. Jake had texted her earlier, saying he would be late from practice, so she pulled out her notebook and started reviewing her notes for the upcoming exam.

As she tried to focus on her studies, a familiar voice interrupted her thoughts.

“Well, well, if it isn’t Miss Perfect,” Hyeri sneered, her voice dripping with mock sweetness. (Name) looked up to see Hyeri standing across the table, her perfectly styled hair and designer clothes instantly drawing attention from everyone nearby. She was flanked by her usual group of friends, all wearing the same smug expressions.

Hyeri was beautiful, confident, and undeniably one of the most popular girls on campus. But she had never been friendly toward (Name). Ever since (Name) and Jake started dating, Hyeri had made it her mission to make (Name)’s life difficult. She would leave cutting remarks whenever they crossed paths and spread subtle rumors, always with a perfectly innocent smile.

“Hey, Hyeri,” (Name) greeted cautiously, trying to keep her tone neutral.

Hyeri’s smile widened. “Waiting for Jake again? It must be so tiring, constantly trying to keep up with him. I mean, he has so many admirers. It’s a wonder he even has time for you.”

(Name) felt a sting in her chest but kept her face composed. “Jake makes time for the people who matter to him,” she replied calmly, though she could feel her hands trembling slightly under the table.

Hyeri’s expression faltered for a moment before she quickly recovered, laughing lightly. “Of course. But, just a little friendly advice—you might want to up your game. Not everyone finds a plain, bookish girl like you interesting for long.”

Before (Name) could respond, Hyeri turned on her heel, her friends following like a well-rehearsed routine. (Name) watched them go, her heart pounding in her chest. She hated how much Hyeri’s words got to her. She knew Jake cared about her, but it was hard not to feel threatened.

She sighed, turning back to her notes, but her concentration was completely shattered. She couldn’t help but wonder if Hyeri was right. What if Jake got bored of her? What if he found someone more exciting, more… everything?

A few minutes later, Jake finally arrived, his face flushed from practice, hair slightly damp with sweat. He was wearing his soccer uniform, the jersey hugging his toned frame. He spotted her immediately, a grin breaking out on his face.

“Hey, sorry I’m late!” he said, dropping his bag on the chair beside her. He leaned down to give her a quick kiss on the cheek, but she pulled away, pretending to focus on her notes.

“Is everything okay?” Jake asked, his smile fading slightly. He could sense the change in her mood immediately.

“Yeah, just a lot on my mind,” (Name) replied, forcing a small smile. “How was practice?”

“It was good. Tough, but good,” Jake said, still eyeing her with concern. He reached over, placing a hand on hers. “You sure you’re alright?”

She nodded quickly. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just tired.”

Jake didn’t look convinced, but he decided not to push her. He knew (Name) well enough to recognize when she needed space. “Alright,” he said softly. “But you know you can talk to me, right? About anything.”

(Name) nodded, but she couldn’t bring herself to open up. How could she tell him about Hyeri’s words without sounding petty or insecure? She didn’t want to be that girlfriend—the one who couldn’t handle a little competition.

Jake squeezed her hand gently, offering a comforting smile. “Hey, don’t worry. Whatever it is, we’ll figure it out together.”

She appreciated his support, but she couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt. She knew he meant well, but the insecurities were hers to deal with, not his. Still, she managed to return his smile, squeezing his hand back. “Thanks, Jake.”

Jake leaned back in his chair, looking relieved. “Good. Now, let’s focus on this exam. You’re the genius here, so I’m counting on you to help me pass.”

(Name) chuckled, grateful for the light-hearted change in topic. “Alright, let’s get started then. But don’t blame me if you fail.”

Jake laughed. “Deal. But I won’t fail. Not with you around.”

They settled into a comfortable rhythm of study, but (Name)’s mind kept drifting back to Hyeri’s words. She hoped she could push them away, but something told her it wouldn’t be that easy.

▬▬ι══════════════ι▬▬

The next few days passed in a blur of classes, soccer practice, and study sessions. (Name) tried to push her insecurities to the back of her mind, focusing instead on her studies and her time with Jake. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t shake the feeling of doubt that crept in whenever she saw him surrounded by his admirers.

It didn’t help that Hyeri seemed to be everywhere lately, her presence like a shadow that (Name) couldn’t escape. She’d catch glimpses of Hyeri in the hallways, always with that knowing smirk, always whispering something to her friends whenever (Name) walked by.

On Thursday, (Name) decided to stay late at the library to catch up on her assignments. She’d promised Jake she’d meet him after his practice, but she needed some time to herself first. The library was mostly empty, the quiet hum of the air conditioning the only sound in the otherwise silent space.

She found a secluded corner and sat down, pulling out her books and trying to concentrate. But her thoughts kept drifting back to Jake. She knew he loved her; he’d never given her a reason to doubt him. But she couldn’t help wondering if she was enough for him.

Was she interesting enough? Pretty enough? Could she really keep his attention when he was constantly surrounded by so many beautiful, confident girls like Hyeri?

Just as she was about to lose herself in another spiral of doubt, a sharp voice cut through the silence.

“Oh, look who it is,” Hyeri’s voice rang out, echoing through the quiet library. (Name) looked up to see Hyeri approaching, a smug grin on her face. She was flanked by two of her friends, who snickered as they followed her lead.

“What do you want, Hyeri?” (Name) asked, keeping her voice calm and her gaze steady.

Hyeri chuckled, crossing her arms. “Just wanted to check on you, make sure you’re not feeling too… overwhelmed. I mean, dating Jake must be exhausting. All those girls throwing themselves at him… it’s got to be tough.”

(Name) felt her heart rate quicken, but she refused to give Hyeri the satisfaction of seeing her react. “Jake and I are fine. Thanks for your concern,” she said, her tone polite but firm.

Hyeri raised an eyebrow, her smile widening. “Are you, though? Because, honestly, I’ve been seeing a lot of him around lately… and not with you.”

The words were like a knife twisting in her gut, but (Name) held her ground. “Jake has practice and games; he’s busy. But he always makes time for me.”

Hyeri laughed. “If you say so. But remember, sweetie, there’s always someone waiting to take your place. Someone who can keep up with him in every way.”

(Name) felt a surge of anger. “Why do you care so much about what Jake and I do?”

Hyeri’s smile faltered for a split second, but she quickly recovered. “I’m just looking out for you. Wouldn’t want you to get hurt when you’re so… out of your depth.”

(Name) clenched her fists under the table, trying to stay calm. “I’m not going anywhere, Hyeri. So, whatever you’re trying to do, it’s not going to work.”

Hyeri’s smile turned cold. “We’ll see about that.” With a final, disdainful look, she turned and walked away, her friends trailing behind her.

(Name) let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding, her hands trembling slightly. She hated how much Hyeri got to her. She hated feeling this way—unsure and insecure, constantly questioning herself.

She glanced at the time on her phone. Jake’s practice would be over soon. She needed to clear her head before she saw him. She packed up her things and headed out of the library, deciding to take the long way to the field.

As she approached the soccer field, she saw the team wrapping up their practice. Jake was in the center, laughing with his teammates, his jersey clinging to his frame, hair damp with sweat. He looked so at ease, so confident. She felt a pang in her chest, a mix of love and doubt swirling inside her.

He spotted her from across the field and waved, his face breaking into that bright, boyish grin that always made her heart skip a beat.

“Hey!” he called, jogging over to her. “You’re here early. I thought you were going to be at the library until late.”

“I finished up sooner than I thought,” she replied, trying to sound casual. “Figured I’d come watch the end of practice.”

Jake chuckled. “Well, you missed the best part—me scoring the winning goal in our scrimmage.”

(Name) smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I’m sure you were great, as always.”

Jake tilted his head, noticing the slight edge in her voice. “Hey, are you okay? You seem… off.”

“I’m fine,” she said quickly, then sighed. “Just… a long day.”

Jake studied her for a moment, then reached out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “You know you can talk to me, right? About anything.”

(Name) nodded, feeling a lump form in her throat. She wanted to tell him about Hyeri, about everything that had been bothering her. But she didn’t want to sound like she was complaining or insecure. She knew Jake loved her, and she didn’t want to come across as needy.

“I know,” she whispered. “I just… I’m fine, really.”

Jake frowned but didn’t press further. He leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. “Okay, but if you need to talk, I’m here. Always.”

She nodded, trying to hold back the tears that threatened to spill. “I know,” she whispered again, leaning into his touch.

As they walked away from the field, Jake’s arm draped over her shoulders, (Name) felt the weight of her insecurities settle in her chest. She knew she needed to find a way to deal with them, to stop letting Hyeri get under her skin. But she also knew that it wouldn’t be easy.

For now, she would just hold on to Jake’s warmth and try to believe that everything would be okay.

▬▬ι══════════════ι▬▬

Over the next few days, (Name) tried to shake off the encounter with Hyeri, but the words kept echoing in her mind. Every time she saw Jake surrounded by his female fans, her heart clenched with a mix of jealousy and fear. She hated feeling this way—so uncertain, so fragile. But she couldn't help it.

Jake, ever the social butterfly, didn't notice the subtle change in her mood at first. He continued his usual routine, grinning and waving at everyone who crossed his path, chatting with teammates and classmates alike. He’d often invite (Name) to join him, but she found herself making excuses to avoid the large crowds. She couldn’t stand being around the girls who so openly fawned over him, who looked at her like she was just a temporary fixture in his life.

But Jake was perceptive. He soon noticed the hesitation in her eyes, the way she would look away whenever one of his admirers approached. He’d catch her staring at the ground or fiddling with her fingers, and it didn't sit right with him.

One afternoon, after soccer practice, he decided to confront her. They were walking toward the student café, Jake’s arm casually slung over her shoulders. He felt her tense under his touch, and his brows furrowed in concern.

“(Name), what’s going on?” Jake asked, stopping in his tracks. “You’ve been… distant lately. Did I do something?”

(Name) looked up, startled by his directness. “No, Jake, it’s not you. I’m just… tired, I guess.”

He shook his head, not buying her vague excuse. “Tired? You’ve been tired for days. Come on, babe, talk to me. I can’t help if you don’t tell me what’s wrong.”

She sighed, her eyes avoiding his. “It’s nothing, really. I just… I’ve got a lot on my mind.”

Jake gently cupped her chin, tilting her face up to meet his gaze. “Like what? You know you can tell me anything.”

She hesitated, biting her lip. Should she tell him about Hyeri? About the bullying, the snide comments, and the doubt that had been gnawing at her for weeks? But what if he thought she was being childish, or worse, weak? She swallowed, trying to muster up her courage.

“It's… just some stuff with Hyeri,” she finally muttered. “She and her friends have been giving me a hard time.”

Jake’s face darkened immediately, his grip on her chin tightening slightly. “Hyeri? What’s she been saying to you?”

(Name) shook her head. “Nothing… nothing you need to worry about.”

Jake’s jaw clenched. “Tell me, (Name). What has she been saying?”

She sighed, knowing he wouldn’t let it go. “Just… stuff about how I’m not good enough for you. That there are other girls who are better for you.”

Jake’s expression hardened, his eyes flashing with anger. “She said that to you?”

(Name) nodded, her heart pounding. “Yeah… but it’s not a big deal. I can handle it.”

Jake’s hand slid down to grip hers, squeezing it tightly. “It is a big deal. I don’t want anyone making you feel like that. I’ll talk to her—”

“No!” (Name) interrupted, her eyes widening. “Please, Jake, don’t. It’ll just make things worse.”

Jake hesitated, torn between wanting to protect her and respecting her wishes. “But she’s hurting you, (Name). I can’t just stand by and let that happen.”

(Name) squeezed his hand back, her voice soft. “I know, but… if you confront her, she’ll just make it worse. And I don’t want you to get dragged into it.”

Jake sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Okay… okay. But if she does anything else, you tell me. Promise?”

(Name) nodded, relieved that he wasn’t pushing it further. “I promise.”

Jake pulled her into a tight hug, resting his chin on top of her head. “I just want you to be happy, you know that, right?”

She nodded, closing her eyes as she leaned into his embrace. “I know.”

But deep down, a small voice whispered that it wasn’t just about Hyeri. It was about her own fears and insecurities, about feeling like she didn’t belong in Jake’s world—a world filled with confidence and charm, where she always felt like an outsider.

That night, as (Name) lay in bed, staring up at the ceiling, she couldn’t stop thinking about Jake’s words. He wanted her to be happy, but she wasn’t sure she even knew how to be happy right now.

Her phone buzzed, and she picked it up, seeing a message from Jake:

Jake: I’m here if you need to talk, okay? About anything.

She smiled a little, her heart warming at his concern.

(Name): Thanks, Jake. I appreciate it.

Jake: Seriously, I mean it. I hate seeing you upset. You’re everything to me, babe.

Her smile widened, and she felt a flutter in her chest. Maybe… maybe she was worrying too much. Maybe she just needed to trust Jake more.

She put her phone down, deciding that tomorrow, she’d try to be more open with him, let him in on what she was feeling. Maybe then, they could work through this together.

But little did she know, Hyeri wasn’t done yet.

▬▬ι══════════════ι▬▬

The next few days passed in a tense blur. (Name) tried her best to keep up appearances, to act like everything was normal. She wanted to believe Jake’s words, to trust in their relationship, but every time she saw Hyeri or one of her friends sneering at her from across the campus, her confidence wavered.

She avoided Jake's fan club and the soccer field, choosing to spend her time buried in books or at her part-time job at the library. Even though Jake would text her constantly, asking her to come watch him practice or join him and his friends, she often made excuses, saying she had too much homework or wasn’t feeling well.

Jake wasn’t blind—he could see the change in her. He noticed the way she avoided his friends, the way she seemed more withdrawn. His frustration grew, but he tried to keep it in check, knowing she needed time. But he was determined to get to the bottom of this.

One day, after a particularly grueling practice, Jake sat on the bleachers, his face set in a frown. His teammate and best friend, Sunghoon, nudged him with his shoulder. “Hey, man, what’s with the long face?”

Jake sighed, running a hand through his damp hair. “It’s (Name). She’s been acting weird lately. I think something’s going on, but she won’t talk to me about it.”

Sunghoon leaned back, stretching out his legs. “Have you tried asking her directly?”

“Yeah, but she keeps saying everything’s fine. I know it’s not.” Jake shook his head. “I think it has something to do with Hyeri.”

Sunghoon raised an eyebrow. “Hyeri? That girl’s trouble, man. If she’s involved, it’s definitely not good.”

Jake clenched his jaw. “I know, and I’ve tried to get (Name) to open up, but she doesn’t want me to confront Hyeri. She thinks it’ll make things worse.”

Sunghoon nodded thoughtfully. “Maybe she’s right. But you can’t just sit back and do nothing, either.”

Jake stood up, determination burning in his eyes. “Yeah. I’m going to find out what’s going on.”

The next day, Jake was on high alert. He watched as (Name) moved through her day, always with a slightly anxious look in her eyes, glancing over her shoulder as if expecting something—or someone. He felt his frustration building; he hated seeing her like this, so on edge and unhappy.

During lunch, Jake spotted Hyeri and her clique at their usual table, laughing loudly, tossing their perfect hair, and occasionally casting disdainful glances in (Name)’s direction. Something inside Jake snapped.

He walked over, his steps purposeful and determined. The table quieted as he approached, all eyes turning toward him. Hyeri’s expression shifted into a coy smile. “Jake, what a surprise,” she purred. “What brings you here?”

Jake’s face was stone-cold. “We need to talk.”

Hyeri feigned innocence, blinking up at him with wide eyes. “Oh? About what?”

“About you leaving (Name) alone,” Jake replied, his voice low and menacing. “I know you’ve been harassing her.”

Hyeri’s smile faltered, but she quickly recovered, letting out a soft laugh. “Harassing? Oh, Jake, you’ve got it all wrong. We were just… chatting. Girls talk, you know?”

Jake leaned in closer, his eyes narrowing. “Cut the crap, Hyeri. I know what you’re doing, and I’m telling you to stop. Now.”

Hyeri’s eyes flashed with anger, but she kept her voice sweet. “I don’t know what she’s told you, but it sounds like she’s just trying to make me look bad. Why would I care about her, anyway? She’s nothing.”

Jake’s fists clenched at his sides. “She’s not nothing,” he said firmly. “She’s everything to me. And if you don’t back off, you’ll regret it.”

Hyeri’s smile turned cold. “Is that a threat, Jake?”

“It’s a promise,” he shot back, before turning on his heel and walking away.

Hyeri’s expression darkened as she watched him go. “Fine,” she muttered under her breath. “If he wants to play that game, then so be it.”

Later that evening, Jake went to (Name)’s dorm. He knocked on her door, his heart racing with a mix of anger and concern. When she opened it, she looked surprised to see him. “Jake? What are you doing here?”

He stepped inside, closing the door behind him. “We need to talk,” he said, his tone serious.

(Name) felt a knot form in her stomach. “About what?”

“About Hyeri,” Jake replied, his eyes searching hers. “I confronted her today.”

(Name) felt her heart drop. “Jake, I told you not to—”

“I couldn’t just stand by and let her treat you like that!” he cut her off, his voice strained. “She’s been making your life hell, and I’m not okay with it.”

(Name) sighed, rubbing her temples. “I know, but now it’s going to be worse. She’s not going to stop just because you told her to.”

Jake’s expression softened slightly. “I don’t care if she stops or not. I care about you. And I can’t stand seeing you this unhappy.”

(Name) looked away, biting her lip. “It’s not just about her, Jake. It’s… everything. All the girls who like you, who want to be with you… It makes me feel like I’m not enough.”

Jake’s heart ached at her words. He reached out, gently cupping her face in his hands. “(Name), look at me.” She hesitated but finally met his gaze. “You are more than enough for me. I don’t care about those other girls. I only care about you. You’re the one I want. The only one.”

Tears welled up in her eyes, and she nodded, feeling a small bit of relief. “I just… I hate feeling like this. I don’t want to be insecure, but it’s hard when I see how perfect they are.”

Jake shook his head. “They’re not perfect. They’re just loud. You’re the one who’s special. You’re smart, kind, beautiful… everything I could ever want.”

She let out a shaky breath, leaning into his touch. “I’m sorry, Jake. I’m trying.”

Jake pulled her into his arms, holding her close. “I know, babe. And I’m here for you. Always.”

For a moment, they stood there in silence, just holding each other. But (Name) knew that this wasn’t over. Hyeri wasn’t going to back down easily, and there was still a long way to go. But at least she knew she had Jake by her side.

▬▬ι══════════════ι▬▬

The days following Jake’s confrontation with Hyeri were tense. (Name) tried to brace herself for what was coming, knowing Hyeri wouldn’t take Jake’s warning lightly. As much as she appreciated Jake standing up for her, she couldn’t shake the feeling that things were about to get much worse.

It started small. A few whispered insults in the hallway, snide comments thrown her way when she walked past. (Name) tried to ignore them, keeping her head down and focusing on her studies. But Hyeri wasn’t satisfied with subtlety.

One afternoon, (Name) found her locker door slightly ajar. Frowning, she opened it to find a pile of crumpled papers, candy wrappers, and a half-eaten sandwich shoved inside. Her textbooks were scribbled over with permanent marker, and her neatly organized notes were torn to shreds. Her heart sank, a wave of humiliation washing over her as she looked around. A few students snickered from a distance, watching her reaction with amused expressions.

She took a deep breath, trying to keep herself from breaking down. She had expected Hyeri to lash out, but this felt personal—crueler than before. Swallowing her pride, she quickly cleaned up the mess, shoving the ruined papers into her bag. She didn’t want to give Hyeri the satisfaction of seeing her cry.

That evening, she sat alone in her dorm room, staring at the ruined notes. Her frustration built up, her chest tightening with anger and hurt. She felt trapped, unable to confront Hyeri directly for fear of making things worse, yet unable to ignore the constant harassment.

Just as she felt tears welling up, her phone buzzed. A message from Jake:

“Meet me outside in five?”

She sighed, wiping her eyes. The last thing she wanted was for Jake to see her like this, but she also knew she couldn’t keep avoiding him. She grabbed her jacket and headed out.

Jake was waiting by the entrance, his hands shoved in his pockets. When he saw her, he smiled, but the smile faded quickly when he noticed her red-rimmed eyes. “Hey… What happened?”

(Name) shook her head, trying to smile. “It’s nothing. Just… had a rough day.”

Jake frowned, stepping closer. “You’ve been having a lot of rough days lately. Is it Hyeri?”

She hesitated, then nodded slowly. “She messed with my locker today. Ruined all my notes and textbooks. I don’t know how much more of this I can take, Jake.”

His expression darkened, his jaw clenching. “I’m sorry. I thought… I thought talking to her would make her stop, but I guess I underestimated her.”

(Name) sighed. “I just don’t know what to do. I don’t want to drag you into this any more than I already have.”

Jake shook his head firmly. “You’re not dragging me into anything. I’m already in this with you, whether you like it or not.” He reached out, gently brushing a tear from her cheek. “We’re going to figure this out together, okay?”

She nodded, leaning into his touch. “Okay… but I just don’t know how.”

Jake was silent for a moment, then his eyes lit up with an idea. “I think it’s time we play this a little smarter. If Hyeri wants to act like a bully, then maybe we need to show her that she can’t push you around without consequences.”

(Name) looked at him, puzzled. “What do you mean?”

Jake grinned, a mischievous glint in his eye. “I have an idea. But it’s going to require some guts and a bit of creativity.”

She raised an eyebrow. “What kind of idea?”

“Let’s just say,” Jake smirked, “we’re going to give Hyeri a taste of her own medicine, but in a way that shows her she can’t mess with you—or us.”

Over the next few days, Jake’s plan slowly took shape. He started by gathering information. He watched Hyeri and her friends closely, taking note of their routines, their favorite hangouts, and the little things they valued. He recruited Sunghoon and a few of his soccer teammates, who were more than happy to help, tired of Hyeri’s antics and eager to support Jake and (Name).

Meanwhile, (Name) focused on keeping up her appearance of being unaffected. She attended classes, smiled in the hallways, and ignored Hyeri’s taunts as much as she could. It wasn’t easy, but she felt a new sense of determination growing within her, fueled by Jake’s support and her own desire to stand up for herself.

One day, as (Name) was leaving the library, she received a text from Jake:

“Meet me by the soccer field. It’s time for phase one.”

Excitement and nerves fluttered in her stomach as she made her way to the field. Jake was already there, leaning casually against the bleachers, his soccer teammates gathered around him. When he saw her, he smiled and waved her over.

“Okay, here’s the plan,” Jake began, his tone serious. “Hyeri and her friends are always at that little café off-campus on Fridays, right?”

(Name) nodded. “Yeah, they go there after their study group.”

Jake grinned. “Perfect. We’re going to create a little… inconvenience for them. Nothing too drastic, but enough to make them think twice before messing with you again.”

(Name) raised an eyebrow. “What kind of inconvenience?”

Jake leaned in, lowering his voice. “Let’s just say they’re going to find their favorite table reserved for someone else… with a little surprise waiting for them.”

Sunghoon chuckled. “And by surprise, we mean a group of very rowdy, very enthusiastic freshman boys who think Hyeri’s group is there for a… study date.”

(Name) couldn’t help but laugh. “Are you serious?”

Jake nodded, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Dead serious. It’s harmless, but it’ll throw them off their game. And if they react badly… well, the whole café will see their true colors.”

(Name) giggled, feeling a weight lift from her shoulders. “Okay, I’m in. Let’s do this.”

That Friday, (Name) sat with Jake and his teammates at a nearby table in the café, watching as the plan unfolded. As expected, Hyeri and her group arrived and headed straight for their usual spot, only to find it occupied by a group of loud, overeager freshmen.

Hyeri’s face twisted in annoyance, and she tried to shoo the boys away, but they didn’t budge. Soon, the whole café was watching, amused at the spectacle.

Jake leaned over to (Name), whispering, “See? This is just the beginning. We’ll make sure Hyeri learns that she can’t keep getting away with this.”

(Name) nodded, feeling a surge of confidence. For the first time in weeks, she felt like she had a chance to take control of her situation. And with Jake by her side, she was ready for whatever came next.

▬▬ι══════════════ι▬▬

The café buzzed with hushed conversations and soft laughter, all eyes on Hyeri and her friends as they struggled to maintain their composure. Hyeri’s face was a mask of irritation, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as the freshmen continued their antics, oblivious to her growing fury.

One of the freshmen, a particularly eager boy named Minsoo, leaned in closer to Hyeri with a wide grin. “So, what’s your favorite subject?” he asked, his voice a little too loud, drawing even more attention.

Hyeri’s eyes narrowed. “Get. Out. Of. My. Way,” she hissed, but Minsoo didn’t seem to take the hint.

Jake and (Name) watched from their table, trying to hide their laughter behind their drinks. (Name) felt a rush of satisfaction, seeing Hyeri squirm under the unwanted attention. For the first time in a long while, she felt a sense of control over her life, and it was exhilarating.

Hyeri finally snapped, standing up abruptly and knocking her chair over. “This is ridiculous!” she shouted, her voice echoing through the café. “Who let these idiots in here?”

The manager, an older woman with a stern expression, approached cautiously. “Miss, I’ll have to ask you to calm down or leave,” she said firmly.

Hyeri’s face turned a deeper shade of red. “Do you even know who I am?” she demanded, but the manager remained unfazed.

(Name) could see the tension building, the entire café now engrossed in the scene. Jake leaned closer, his voice low. “Wait for it…”

At that moment, Sunghoon, pretending to be an innocent bystander, approached Hyeri’s table. “Hey, Hyeri, I think everyone’s watching,” he said with a mock-concerned tone, loud enough for everyone to hear.

Hyeri’s eyes widened, realizing that all eyes were indeed on her, and she let out an exasperated growl. “Come on, let’s go,” she muttered to her friends, storming out of the café in a huff, her minions trailing behind her.

As soon as they were out of sight, the café erupted in quiet cheers and giggles. Jake leaned back with a satisfied grin. “Mission accomplished.”

(Name) couldn’t help but laugh, feeling a mix of relief and triumph. “That was… actually kind of brilliant,” she admitted, looking at Jake with newfound admiration.

Jake shrugged, a playful smile tugging at his lips. “I told you, we’re just getting started.”

The next day, the story of Hyeri’s humiliation spread like wildfire throughout the campus. The once-feared queen bee had been dethroned in the most public way possible, and people were talking. (Name) received a few encouraging smiles from strangers, and even her professors seemed to be in on the gossip.

But (Name) knew better than to think Hyeri would let this slide. She braced herself for whatever retaliation might come. She knew Hyeri well enough to know that the girl would not take this public embarrassment lying down.

Sure enough, by midday, rumors began circulating that Hyeri was planning something big. (Name) overheard snippets of conversation in the halls—something about a party, something about revenge. Her heart sank a little, but she kept her head high. She wouldn’t let Hyeri see that she was afraid.

As she walked to her next class, Jake caught up with her, falling into step beside her. “Hey, you okay?” he asked, his expression more serious than usual.

(Name) nodded. “Yeah, just… you know, waiting for the other shoe to drop.”

Jake frowned. “I heard about the party. Are you worried?”

She shrugged. “A little. But I guess I knew this was coming. Hyeri isn’t the type to just… let things go.”

Jake’s expression hardened. “Don’t worry. I won’t let her get to you. Not again.”

(Name) smiled softly, touched by his determination. “Thanks, Jake. I mean it. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

He stopped walking, turning to face her fully. “You don’t have to thank me. You deserve to feel safe. To be happy.” His voice was earnest, his eyes locking onto hers.

Before she could respond, Jake’s phone buzzed. He glanced down at it, his brow furrowing. “Speak of the devil,” he muttered, showing (Name) the screen. It was a text from Hyeri:

“You think you’re clever, Sim? Let’s see how clever you are when your precious little girlfriend is humiliated in front of the whole school. See you at the party.”

(Name)’s stomach twisted with anxiety. “What does she mean?”

Jake’s jaw clenched. “I don’t know, but we’re going to find out. And whatever it is, we’re going to stop her.”

Later that afternoon, Jake and (Name) sat with Sunghoon and a few of their close friends in the campus café, strategizing. “We need to be prepared for anything,” Jake said, leaning over the table. “Hyeri’s not going to hold back, so we shouldn’t either.”

Sunghoon nodded. “I can ask around, see if anyone knows more about what she’s planning. She might have let something slip.”

(Name) sighed. “I just don’t want this to turn into some kind of war. I just want her to leave me alone.”

Jake reached over, squeezing her hand. “I know. But she needs to understand that she can’t just push people around and get away with it.”

They spent the next hour planning, going over different scenarios and coming up with counter-strategies. Jake was determined to be one step ahead of Hyeri, to make sure whatever she had planned backfired.

Finally, they agreed to attend the party together, but with a clear plan in place. “We stick together,” Jake said firmly. “And if anything happens, we’re ready.”

(Name) nodded, feeling a mixture of dread and anticipation. She wasn’t looking forward to whatever Hyeri had up her sleeve, but she felt comforted by the support of Jake and their friends.

Jake smiled, squeezing her hand once more. “Whatever happens, we’re in this together.”

(Name) took a deep breath, nodding. “Together.”

▬▬ι══════════════ι▬▬

The night of the party arrived, and the atmosphere was electric. The house was filled with students, music blaring, lights flashing. (Name) felt a knot of anxiety in her stomach as they stepped inside, Jake’s hand firmly gripping hers.

Jake scanned the crowd, his expression tense. “Stay close,” he murmured.

They made their way through the crowd, exchanging polite nods and smiles. (Name) felt her nerves slowly calming, the familiar warmth of Jake’s presence reassuring her. But as they moved deeper into the house, she spotted Hyeri across the room, watching them with a cold, calculating smile.

Hyeri sauntered over, her friends flanking her like a pack of wolves. “Oh, look who decided to show up,” she sneered. “I hope you’re ready for a fun night, (Name).”

Jake stepped in front of (Name), his voice low and firm. “Whatever you’re planning, Hyeri, it’s not going to work.”

Hyeri’s smile widened. “We’ll see about that,” she purred. “You might want to keep a closer eye on your little girlfriend, Jake. You never know who might be looking to… have a little fun.”

Before (Name) could process her words, Hyeri turned on her heel and disappeared into the crowd, leaving a trail of hushed whispers in her wake.

(Name) felt a chill run down her spine. “What do you think she meant by that?”

Jake’s grip tightened around her hand. “I don’t know, but whatever it is, we’re not letting her win.”

As the night wore on, (Name) couldn’t shake the feeling that something was about to happen. The tension was palpable, the air thick with anticipation. She stayed close to Jake, trying to keep her nerves in check.

Then, just as the clock struck midnight, the lights suddenly went out. The room was plunged into darkness, and a hushed silence fell over the crowd.

“Stay close to me,” Jake whispered, pulling (Name) closer.

A spotlight flickered on, illuminating the center of the room where Hyeri stood, a microphone in hand. Her smile was wide, almost sinister. “Ladies and gentlemen,” she announced, her voice ringing out over the silent room, “I have a special announcement to make.”

(Name)’s heart pounded in her chest. She glanced at Jake, who looked equally tense. “What is she doing?” she whispered.

Jake’s eyes narrowed. “I don’t know, but whatever it is, we’re ready.”

▬▬ι══════════════ι▬▬

Hyeri's smile broadened as she paced slowly around the center of the room, basking in the attention. The crowd murmured in anticipation, curious and eager to see what drama she was about to unfold. (Name) could feel the anxiety tightening in her chest, her heart racing as she squeezed Jake's hand. She knew Hyeri wouldn’t have brought everyone’s attention to herself without a reason.

“Tonight,” Hyeri continued, her voice dripping with faux sweetness, “is a night to celebrate friendships, old and new. But, it’s also a night to remind some people of their place.” Her eyes flicked briefly toward (Name), and (Name) felt a cold shiver run down her spine.

Jake’s grip tightened around her hand. “Stay calm,” he whispered, his eyes never leaving Hyeri. “She wants a reaction.”

Hyeri clapped her hands, and suddenly, the large screen behind her flickered to life. (Name) felt a lump form in her throat as images began to flash across the screen—pictures of her, taken secretly over the past few weeks. In class, walking on campus, sitting alone in the library, even a few of her and Jake together, laughing. The crowd gasped and whispered as the images continued to play.

“Recognize anyone?” Hyeri asked, her voice mocking and playful. “Our little (Name) here seems to have quite the admirer, don’t you think?”

(Name) felt her face flush with embarrassment. The pictures weren't anything compromising, but the very fact that someone had been following her, taking photos without her knowledge, sent a wave of discomfort and fear washing over her. Jake was fuming, his expression dark and dangerous.

“What the hell is this, Hyeri?” Jake demanded, stepping forward slightly, shielding (Name) with his body. “This is low, even for you.”

Hyeri laughed lightly, as if Jake had just told a joke. “Oh, don’t be so dramatic, Jake. I just thought everyone should see how precious little (Name) has been… living her life. Don’t you think she’s just adorable?”

The crowd was murmuring louder now, a mix of shock, curiosity, and discomfort. (Name) wanted to disappear, to melt into the floor and escape this public humiliation.

Jake’s voice was low and cold. “Turn it off. Now.”

Hyeri shrugged, a malicious grin on her face. “Oh, but why? We’re just getting started.” She gestured, and the images changed, now showing photoshopped images of (Name) in compromising situations, ones that were clearly fake but still enough to make (Name)’s blood run cold. The laughter from the crowd grew louder.

“See, (Name)?” Hyeri continued, her voice dripping with insincerity. “This is what happens when you try to play in a league you don’t belong in. Stick to your books and stay out of my way, and maybe next time, I won’t have to make things so… entertaining.”

Jake had had enough. He surged forward, pulling (Name) behind him. “Shut it down, Hyeri, or I will,” he threatened, his voice like ice. The intensity in his eyes sent a clear message: he was done playing games.

Hyeri seemed unfazed, but there was a flicker of hesitation in her eyes. “Oh, what are you going to do, Jake? Hit a girl?” she taunted.

Jake smirked, his calm returning as he reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone. “I don’t need to hit you. But I do have friends who’d be very interested in knowing what you’re up to… including the dean and the campus police. How do you think your daddy’s going to feel about his precious princess getting expelled?”

For the first time, Hyeri’s smile faltered. “You wouldn’t dare…”

Jake’s smile widened, dangerous and confident. “Try me.” He pressed a button, and suddenly a recording of Hyeri’s earlier taunts and threats played through the speakers of the room. The crowd gasped again, turning their attention back to Hyeri, whose face had gone pale.

(Name) felt a surge of pride and relief. Jake had been prepared. He knew Hyeri would try something and had come armed with his own evidence.

“Now,” Jake continued, his voice carrying across the room, “if you don’t shut this down and apologize, I will make sure everyone, including your father, knows exactly what you’ve been up to. And trust me, I have more than enough proof to back it up.”

Hyeri’s face twisted in anger and fear. She knew she was cornered. With a huff, she waved at the tech guy controlling the screen. “Turn it off,” she snapped, and the screen went dark.

The room was filled with a tense silence. Hyeri glared at Jake, her fists clenched. “This isn’t over,” she spat, before turning on her heel and storming out of the room, her minions trailing after her like lost puppies.

The crowd erupted into murmurs, and (Name) felt the tension in her chest slowly dissipate. Jake turned to her, his expression softening. “You okay?” he asked gently.

(Name) nodded, though her hands were still shaking. “I… I think so. Thank you, Jake.”

Jake smiled, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “You don’t have to thank me. She messed with the wrong person, and I wasn’t going to let her get away with it.”

The room began to fill with quiet applause and cheers, people coming up to (Name) to offer words of support. Jake squeezed her hand, a proud smile on his face. “Come on, let’s get out of here,” he whispered. “I think we’ve had enough drama for one night.”

(Name) nodded, feeling a wave of gratitude and affection for Jake. “Yeah,” she agreed softly, leaning into him as they made their way out of the house and into the cool night air. She knew there would be more challenges ahead, but with Jake by her side, she felt like she could handle anything.

▬▬ι══════════════ι▬▬

The night air was cool and crisp as Jake led (Name) down the quiet path away from the frat house. His arm was still wrapped protectively around her, and every now and then, he’d give her hand a gentle squeeze as if to reassure her that she was safe now.

(Name) leaned into his side, the warmth of his body calming her nerves. Her mind replayed the events of the evening—Hyeri’s cruel scheme, the embarrassment of those photos, and then Jake stepping up to defend her in a way she hadn’t expected. The relief she felt in his presence was overwhelming, but it also made her heart ache with a strange mixture of joy and uncertainty.

Jake was quiet as they walked, his expression softer now but still a little tense. She wondered if he was upset about how things had unfolded or if he was thinking about how she had been dragged into the mess because of him.

They stopped when they reached the small campus park, the dimly lit path framed by large oak trees and benches scattered around. Jake gently guided her toward one of the benches, and they both sat down. The silence between them stretched, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was more like a pause, a moment to gather thoughts before speaking.

“Jake,” (Name) began, her voice quiet but steady. She felt like she needed to say something, to break the tension in the air. “Thank you for what you did back there. I don’t think I’ve ever been so embarrassed in my life, but… you stood up for me.”

Jake turned to her, his eyes softening even more at her words. “You don’t need to thank me, (Name),” he said, his voice gentle. “I wasn’t going to let Hyeri or anyone else hurt you like that. She crossed a line, and I wasn’t going to just stand there and do nothing.”

She smiled weakly, looking down at her hands in her lap. “I guess… I just didn’t expect you to be so—” She paused, searching for the right word. “—so protective. You’ve got so much going on with soccer, the frat, and all those people who want your attention. I guess I thought I was just… another part of your life.”

Jake’s brows furrowed, and he shifted closer to her. “Hey,” he said softly, lifting her chin with his fingers so their eyes met. “You’re not just another part of my life, okay? You’re important to me, (Name). Really important. And I’m sorry if I haven’t made that clear enough.”

Her heart fluttered at his words, but the lingering insecurity from earlier gnawed at her. “It’s just… I know how popular you are, Jake. I see the way people look at you—the way girls look at you. And Hyeri… she’s right in a way. I don’t belong in your world. I’m not like them.”

Jake’s expression softened as he cupped her face with both hands, his thumbs gently brushing her cheeks. “(Name), you don’t have to be like them. I don’t want you to be like them. I like you for who you are—just you. You’re smart, kind, and you keep me grounded in a way no one else can.”

Her eyes began to well up with tears, but she held them back, biting her lip as she listened to his heartfelt words.

“I know I can be a little… clueless sometimes,” Jake continued with a small, self-deprecating smile. “I didn’t see what Hyeri was doing to you, and I’m sorry for that. But I promise, I’m not going to let anyone make you feel like you’re not enough, because to me… you’re more than enough. You’re everything.”

The sincerity in his voice, the way he looked at her as if she was the only person in the world that mattered, made her heart swell. She had always known that Jake was sweet beneath the frat-boy exterior, but hearing him say these words—it was like every insecurity she’d ever had about their relationship was melting away.

A tear slipped down her cheek, and Jake gently wiped it away with his thumb. “Hey, don’t cry,” he whispered, his voice soft and soothing. “I didn’t mean to make you sad.”

She shook her head, a small laugh escaping her. “No, it’s not that,” she said, her voice slightly choked with emotion. “I’m just… happy. I didn’t expect you to say all of that.”

Jake smiled, his own eyes glimmering with affection. He leaned in closer, his forehead resting gently against hers. “You make me want to be better,” he whispered. “I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. And honestly? I don’t want to feel this way about anyone else.”

Her breath caught in her throat at his confession. The warmth of his words and the closeness of his presence made her feel like everything was falling into place. She couldn’t hold back anymore.

“I love you, Jake,” she whispered, her voice soft but steady.

Jake’s eyes widened slightly in surprise, but then his lips curled into the most genuine, heart-melting smile she had ever seen. Without hesitation, he closed the gap between them, pressing his lips to hers in a slow, tender kiss that spoke louder than any words could.

The world around them seemed to disappear, leaving only the two of them, wrapped in the warmth of each other’s affection. The kiss was sweet, soft, and filled with all the feelings they had been holding back for so long.

When they finally pulled away, Jake’s forehead rested against hers again, and he smiled against her lips. “I love you too, (Name),” he murmured, his voice full of warmth and sincerity. “More than you know.”

Her heart felt like it was about to burst with happiness. She wrapped her arms around him, holding him close, and he pulled her into his chest, resting his chin on top of her head.

For a long moment, they sat there in the quiet night, holding each other close, their hearts beating in sync. It was peaceful, it was perfect, and it was everything she had ever hoped for.

Without a word, Jake leaned in and kissed her, deep and intense. It wasn’t like their usual soft kisses—this one was filled with all the emotion they had held back. His lips moved with urgency, and she responded just as passionately, her fingers tangling in his hair.

They finally pulled away, breathless but smiling. Jake rested his forehead against hers, his thumb brushing gently across her cheek.

“I don’t care how many people are out there,” he whispered softly, “You’re the only one I see.”

Her heart fluttered at his words, and with a shy smile, she replied, "And you’re the only one that matters."

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