#Hongjoong dad mode is no joke🤭👀 he is just worried for his kids. . . even though they keep escaping🫣👀👀

[honey-lemon-goose]

Y/n takes into account of so much!! Setting a meeting up at a closed restaurant not e enough that waiting until the guest comes to order food to make them more comfortable!!! A really queen for sure🙌 'mistakes were very common - it was how we responded to them that mattered.' Y/n back with the facts!!👏 'you would be interested in learning more about what kind of food he liked so you could make a suggestion that would suit him.' Man my heart would skip a beat too nsksndkwnsk🤭💛 Convinced you could have Yeosang help with anything as long as you get him fried chicken in the end🤣💛 'At this point he was not sure if Hongjoong even had the right to call himself a captain anymore because of just how masterfully you navigated discourse' 😱😱😱 I feel like Hongjoong shivered from that thought alone🤣😱 "Said what you assumed I wanted to hear. While I do appreciate how considerate you are, and how you respect my profession, it does little to help me get to know you." Aksnskendo oh I love y/n lmaoooo🤭💛 "Not to worry. You can quote me anytime, Yeosang." Pycotxfizkgxjfu woah😳🫣💛 'Yeosang pinched the bridge of his nose, imagining just how nonsensical his friend could be' WOOYOUNG IS BEST WINGMAN YEOSANG!!🤧✊️ "Not at all, I am flattered. And a word of advice, do not apologise for your friends if you cherish them, and especially if they were acting on behalf of you." Wow. Woah. Y/n. Out here with God level maturity!🤭👏 "Then let's organise for when we shall meet again, so I can look forward to it." Qjwnewn smooth Yeosang, that was smooth!!!✊️👏 'pyjamas-clad Wooyoung hopped out from behind the kitchen counters, recorder in his hands, and started playing an ear-bleed worthy rendition of George Michael's Careless Whisper.' AKSMSKSMKS NOT CARELESS WHISPER!! WOOYOUNG YOU MENACE🤣💀 How I live for this man's antics in this series🤭💛 no member is safe frfr🫡 'but with one 'you wanna fight bro' taunt from Jongho - and him moving to stand in a boxing position, made the taller member turn right around and loudly proclaim 'NOPE'. Me too Mingi🥲 no one messes with Jongho! Man with rip you apart like that apples! R.i.p apples😭🙏 'Yunho, who just stepped out and was leaning against his doorframe.' 🫠🤭 Yunho can do anything normal or mundane and have me on my knees oml🫡💛 but fr imagine him leaning against a doorframe, arms folded just looking at you!? Aksnekwnlwwnwk🫣💛 "Nah, I have no beef with Yeosang, he was a homie when I was having problems with a certain someone." Akwnskem is this referring to your fan yunho y/n!!???? "And not because.... goth gf?" Yeosang could not help it. He saw the opportunity." Akwnsksks😱 Wooyoung + recorder = loud and one in the same💀🤣 I see and understand why Hongjoong is worried for Yeosang in liking a celebrity interviewer. I mean yeah all the risks are there! But as we have read y/n isn't like that but Hongjoong just has to find out for himself so dad mode can subside!💛 'Hongjoong had all but forgotten the quarrel, preoccupied with promotional schedules and training.' And goth gf🤭👏 Hongjoong was worried yes but did he take it a bit too far? Yes.🤦‍♀️ Man Yeosang is smitten🥰💛 "You and Yeosang had a thing for asking questions. And now, together, were crafting the answers, one by one.' AHHHH WJWNEKNW ADORABLE OML🥹💛💛

Your fan, Yeosang (part 2)

(part 1) (your fan ml)

📺 pairing: yeosang x talk show host!reader 📺 genre: romance, fluff, mutual pining, drama 📺 summary: a bulletpoint-style wordstream of what it would be like if yeosang was stanning you 📺 wordcount: 8.0k (hehet? this be a long boi v sorry) 📺 warnings/tags: language, drama, reader has connections, woo and jongho are best homies, seongjoong parents, flute remixes to soothe the soul, general chaos, 6d chess master plans, prejudice, growth, interviews and press, discussion of media, mention of eating, slight sleep deprivation, sneaking out 📺 taglist: @acciocriativity, @senpai-of-doom, @layzfeelit @jcngh0-hq @black--awsum @honey-lemon-goose 📺 a/n: Hello!! <3<3 Is drama on the horizon for Yeosang? Let's find out! Thank you so much for your love and support, big hugs, much love and hope you enjoy <3 (p.s.: can you guess who is next? hint is: sOft chaos bringer)

The clock struck eight in the evening as you were sat in your favourite family restaurant, toying with a napkin that you had taken from the table drawer. You did not want to order anything before his arrival, just in case if the meeting were to be cut short for some unknown reason.

You liked to give people space to breathe, and that always started from the way one carried themselves, and whether they were forward-thinking enough to consider how some of their most insignificant actions could result in something much, much bigger.

For celebrities, and any public figures for that matter, this was amplified a thousand fold and had many nuances and interpretations.

Take a scandal stemming from exposure. Why you had chosen this restaurant in particular, was so that there would be no curious eyes: the storefront was covered by a myriad of posters, an old vending machine, and stacks of crates. Most importantly, they were actually closed today, and only because of your close ties to the owner were you allowed in here 24/7.

Take a red herring or misleading information. You were clear in your demands for the meeting, and appreciated the directness with which you had been approached. Seeing as this was an unofficial introduction, you had picked the time and day when you were bound to be off work and did not have to lie to your colleagues.

Take foolishness and lack of reflecting on one's actions and words. It was a simple error to make. Many had done it. You tried your best to veer away from such disasters during interviews that you led, but some... were just prone to talking first, thinking second.

This is why, when you saw the handsome young man by the name of Yeosang walk through the door, lowering his mask just a little to let you confirm that it indeed was him, you waited for him to greet you first. Perhaps you might have come across as cold, but you felt that it was the right tactic to choose considering that you had never crossed paths before.

Of course you knew ATEEZ, and had even tried to organise interviews with them before, alas, it had not worked out. At the time you either had not gained enough traction to come across as important enough, or they were simply too busy. Aside from that, you had a hand in suppressing some recent 'what could have been' scandals, but you kept your battles with the yellow pages under wraps.

Destiny had its own plans for you personally interacting with ATEEZ. Destiny in the form of a complex entertainment industry network and... an intriguing broken telephone that led you to contact a certain Jung Wooyoung directly.

And upon doing so, you had finally gotten to exchange a couple of message with none other than the instigator of this whole spy movie-level plot. The contrast between him, and the other member was nothing short of hilarious. Down to the emoji count and the use of punctuation, their personalities revealed themselves to you in seconds.

But Yeosang still seemed... odd. Like he was guarded. And you adored when people were guarded. Especially towards you. Since that normally meant that in reality, they had a lot to say.

He stood at the entrance, feeling a little awkward since he was unfamiliar with the place, it being in a distant neighbourhood to both the company and the dorms. To add, it was you he was meeting, so even if he tried to act cool, it would be a bit of a lie. He rocked on his feet a couple of times, fiddling with his face mask that he had now fully taken off.

Then, as his eyes scanned the surroundings, he spotted you. You were sat at one of the tables furthest from the door, and seemingly did not notice him yet. You were folding the tissue paper in your hands into an elaborate origami structure, and looked almost the same as on screen.

How you were sat reminded him of the little segments during the shows when the camera cut to you a little bit early, and you were still in your zone, waiting for a cue - this had been more prevalent in the earliest episodes, and even then was barely noticeable.

The only reason why he knew was because during an anniversary episode you had dedicated a portion of the show to discussing professional blunders, taking your own as examples and encouraging your viewers that mistakes were very common - it was how we responded to them that mattered.

That had resonated with Yeosang, and as such, he had written about this (for research purposes) in detail. It had motivated him to not be so hard on himself, at least in the moments when he recalled that you had said so.

You had become a sort of stabilising presence in his life, since he admired you so greatly, and he had begun to enjoy pretending that it was exclusively him that you were sharing wisdom with. He had been in denial about that part for a few days, but managed to convince himself that a provider of fan service had the right to enjoy some imaginary fan service too - now if he were to bring that to LIGHT.... that would be a different story.

Not appropriate for a first impression. Matter of fact, not appropriate for later impressions either. He vowed to keep this unfounded 'strangers to whatever it was'!au in his head until he himself turned into a blue bird.

He ambled towards you, straightening out his clothing as a soothing gesture, and when he was a couple metres away from you, froze in place. This was real, wasn't it? He blinked slowly a couple of times. Yep, yep it was. Wooyoung really did have mafia-level connections. All so Yeosang could act like a mafia boss. Bro code certified.

As he wondered how exactly to better gain your full attention and running through different alternative scenarios, you beat him to it, raising your head and beaming. Your cheeriness was contagious, making him return the smile two-fold.

"Kang Yeosang, right? A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"The pleasure is all mine, L/N Y/N."

Yeosang took a seat right in front of you, and as if she had been waiting this whole time, the ahjussi who owned the restaurant strolled up to your table, and asked for your orders. With a kind, yet still unreadable smile you ordered a couple of things off the menu from memory. It seemed both you and the owner were on the same wavelength, existing in an alternate universe where no one forgot anything.

As he fumbled for the menu, not finding anything on the table, then struggling to figure out what the scribbles on the wall were as they seemed to have been written in stereotypical calligraphy of a medical professional, you softly captured his attention.

He half expected you to make a joke about his lost expression, or about how he was pulling a classic Yeosang moment and struggling to catch up, but you only mentioned that the best items were always the ones off the menu, and you would be interested in learning more about what kind of food he liked so you could make a suggestion that would suit him.

Yeosang's heart skipped a beat. Was this what it felt like to be in the studio with you? Were all the people who you worked with and travelled memories with actually there to just... fall for you?

But in the words of the greatest, we must stay focused, brothers, we must stay focused. He pushed the fanboy trapped within him a little bit further down so he wouldn't act up at least for the next hour, and nodded appreciatively towards you.

After confessing his love for certain types of fried goods, but making sure to politely add that really he was okay with anything, you grinned, and explained to him one of the specialties, that luckily, included chicken. He gazed at you, head resting on the palm of his hand, as he pondered just how nice it was to listen to you.

It wasn't just about how you asked questions really. Though that was technically what brought in the money in, as one could say. It was about how you treated your conversation partners with respect. You were not forcing the conversation, nor letting it burn out.

At this point he was not sure if Hongjoong even had the right to call himself a captain anymore because of just how masterfully you navigated discourse, guiding it but not overwhelmingly so. Just enough to keep things interesting. (but Yeosang did not have a death wish, so this was again, personal and exclusive to his mind palace)

As you two were served some soft drinks while you waited for the food to arrive, you decided to cut right to the chase.

"I have heard a few things through the grape vine, and have some conclusions of my own, but I would love to hear about a certain thing from you personally. How would you describe the purpose of a master of ceremonies, of a show host?"

Yeosang needed a moment as he contemplated the question. It felt purposefully cryptic, but he could not feel any malice behind it. Was he being too trusting? He could not help it though, you had an innate ability for welcoming yourself into the inner worlds of others.

Quick, quick... what should he say that would make him appear knowledgable? He could not have a person he looked up to, was basically stanning, think that he was a fool.

"Uh, someone who... and MC is someone who embodies the message of the show, is a reflection of it in a sense. They are a personification of what the programme stands for, from the language they use to how they dress to how they behave overall."

He listed off, feeling proud that he managed to muster up something he deemed worthy of your analysis. At least, until he saw your eyes narrow, and stopped fiddling with your glass of water, instead intertwining your hands together and resting them on the edge of the table.

You extended both your index fingers, and directed them at him. Be it in accusation, or because you wanted to emphasise something, he had no clue. But panic mode was upon him and he began to replay what he had just blurted out in search of an error or any sign of what could have possibly upset you.

The side of your mouth twitched upwards as you noticed a familiar series of behavioural patterns right before you. It was only natural for people to act that way when they said what they thought they had to say, instead of what they really believed in. Especially when you gave the sign that you did not buy it.

"In total agreement with you, Yeosang. Now how about you? How do you view it?"

"But I just-"

"Said what you assumed I wanted to hear. While I do appreciate how considerate you are, and how you respect my profession, it does little to help me get to know you."

Why did that sound so... double sided? Yeosang was at a loss for words. He had not prepared himself for this. The interviews... the shows... they all were so smooth-running. Yes, you were just as nice right now, and probably your technique did not change much either, but feeling it full force was making his brain fuzzy.

"Then how about this. You tell me about your experiences. You have quite a few events and filming under your belt. How would you evaluate your growth over, let's say the last year?"

He jumped at the modification of the question, thinking it was somehow easier and was neutral enough. He told you about how in shows with the rest of ATEEZ, he preferred to take more of a listener role, since there is always so much to cover and so much to do. He even went so far as to explain that prior to any filming, they normally got a rundown of who is expected to have what screen time. His nerves were getting the best of him and he was beginning to ramble. So much for pretending that he had some sort of master plan, when a real master was right in front of him.

But you did not stop him. Not once. You listened intently as he walked you through his journey as a new MC. You enjoyed his diversions into a couple of funny episodes, him stumbling over his words as he realised he was about to spoil something... but especially when he finally touched upon what you had been waiting for.

"...and I have been practicing daily. I find this to be like any singing, or dancing. So needs a unique approach... and... yeah..."

"How? That must take so much effort and the fact that you do it is so admirable!" You encouraged him, motioning for Yeosang to continue and elaborate.

He could not resist you, not when you were right here, not talking over him, complimenting him, and looked interested and not in a rush for time.

"I watch and try to work together with episodes or with clips of people I admire a lot."

"And how are you developing your unique style?"

"Late Night Di- oh. Oh no this is awkward wait oops haha I..."

"Not to worry. You can quote me anytime, Yeosang."

He swore his face just flashed beet red, went pale and heated up again. Instinctively he raised his hand to feel one of his ears - yep, he was beginning to burn up. Did this mean that...?

"And to answer your question, yes, I did watch the episode. And I appreciate you prefacing it by saying 'as said by one of the greats'. Respectable and endearing." you leaned back. This was just the beginning for you, but you already saw Yeosang starting to crack a little.

That front that he had entered the restaurant with, some agenda that was not true to his intentions... it was crumbling away as you laid out the facts in front of him. Using the quiet that had fallen upon both of you, you continued your simple, but impactful monologue.

"I would like to apologise to you for being so persistent in my inquiry. As you probably know, I like to have those who contact me to be open. Maybe it is just how I am, or how I had adapted over time, but I have little patience for saying only half of something. And I think you can agree with me on that."

He merely nodded, unable to break his trance. He was feeling how he was enraptured by you. There it was. That magnificence. The professionalism only you had, paired with the sweetest words and silver-screen femme fatale looks (because even though he did initially find you and became a fan because of your talents, now, sitting together with you, all of his senses were going into a bit of an overdrive).

"As we have already established, we are aware of one another. At least from a distance. So, whilst I must thank Wooyoung for his pains, I have yet to see your intentions."

"Oh?" he whispered, looking straight into your eyes, hypnotised.

"You have a great friend, Yeosang. He almost made this rendezvous sound like a blind date with the number of good things he told me about you."

Yeosang pinched the bridge of his nose, imagining just how nonsensical his friend could be, and what sort of conversation that must have happened between the two of you.

"Gosh I am very sorry about that... Wooyoung is, well Wooyoung." he could not exactly say

"But he has a heart of gold. He lives for the people in his life, even if he might show it in unconventional ways at times."

"Well, that is one of the best ways I have heard him be described. I guess I will not be digging my hole any deeper if I say I am blown away by how you can read and understand people?"

"Not at all, I am flattered. And a word of advice, do not apologise for your friends if you cherish them, and especially if they were acting on behalf of you."

Yep. This was it. This was why he was here. Why Yeosang was just so into you. While he was often labelled as quiet, or shy, or zoned out, or slow, to you he was an open book. And instead of making him feel unsettled, it reassured him that there was someone right here with whom he could stop pretending and stop being unnatural.

This was the moment when he mustered up the courage, and in a tiny voice that got louder as he became more reassured by your nods, hums and overall attentive reactions, began to answer the real, unspoken question that had been hanging over him as soon as he had walked in.

Yeosang expressed his fascination with your approach to being a show host, commended you for starting and leading one of the best programmes on television, and listed of niche, thus even more special reasons for why he was just grateful to you.

For the first time in his life, he felt like he was on the other side of the fansign table. Like he was about to take out an album for you to sign or give you something, anything (he would give you his heart but you already had it).

His gushing was making you blush. It was hard for you to take the compliments, seeing as the whole time you had been in the business, you just took it day by day.

Though you were on the 'entertainment' side of things, you were still a journalist. You still did your fair share of articles for your company, and you still were in the know about the gossip pool. So you had come to ignore all comments made about you or said in your address, since to many you were a 'vulture'.

A lot of people did not care for your good intentions, nor for what had motivated you to start your show in the first place. They only saw a creature who wanted to coax juicy details out of big stars in exchange for huge lumps of money and clout.

Even your bosses, whilst they praised you and had given you a lot more free rein than to others in your age group, they were much more attracted to the connections and sums you were bringing in. That was the darker truth of your business.

You had found yourself forgetting the eagerness you had when you had just started, how you had done the same things Yeosang was doing now. His words woke up a hope within you. That maybe you were not the only one in this industry who wanted to see the brighter side of things was was working hard for that to happen.

His speech slowed down, and he began to pick words carefully, which made you hang onto each one. Then, he asked what you had suspected, but did not think he would go ahead with:

"May I... learn from you? As in... could we meet... sometimes? Whenever we are free..."

How were you in this position right now? A global star, asking you to basically be his coach??? His teacher???? Impostor syndrome was very real and activated, 0 to 100. The woman was too stunned to speak.

You studied Yeosang. The honesty in his eyes was overwhelming. To an extent you were not sure you even deserved this. But, if he wanted it. So be it. You had nothing to lose from continuing to speak to him, especially since he was now fully open with you.

"I would be more than happy to meet with you again, and would be honoured to teach and learn from you, too."

"I really don't know how I can repay you for that. Truly, thank you." Yeosang was on cloud nine as he heard your agreement. And he was mentally patting himself on the back for not becoming a puddle over the duration of this discussion.

"I have an idea." he perked up.

Your show host and main promoter of 'Late Night Dive' side would not let go of you, so you rapidly thought of something in return for sharing your wisdom. You produced a document out of your bag which had been resting on the chair right next to you, and placed it in front of Yeosang.

"These are just some brochures that we use to pitch LND to different agents. Truth be told, a couple of years ago I did try to talk with KQ, but nothing happened. So if you have the chance, mention my show to the big man. And it's a deal."

"Consider it done."

"Thank you. And by the way, I am really glad we met, Yeosang."

"Then let's organise for when we shall meet again, so I can look forward to it."

So you planned one meeting. Another. And the next one after that. It was pretty much like a meeting series on Outlook Calendar at this point. And then, you had stayed in that restaurant until you began to hear a bassline of a snore coming from the kitchen, which upon inspecting, was the ahjussi having a good ol' time sleeping against a wall.

Feeling bad about staying until what had turned out to be past midnight, you and Yeosang had split the bill and left an envelope with the money, adding a little extra in secret so that it technically was not a tip, but a treat instead.

You ambled towards the front door and locked it, having seen the owner do it many times, and with Yeosang's help, pulled down the inner shutter for safety. Then, you guided your companion to the back door, and soon enough, you were back out on the Seoul streets, fresh air hitting your smiling faces. Since you did not want to risk him having to take odd commuting routes at spooky o'clock, you drove Yeosang back to the dorms.

For the duration of the drive, you noticed a light blush on his cheeks, and when an ATEEZ song began to play on the radio, he practically tried to blend with the seat by squeezing himself into it. Did he think you looked very cool while you were steering and generally being all powerful behind the wheel? Yeah. Was he again doubting Hongjoong as captain? A little.

When he got back to the dorms and crept in through the front door, everything was enveloped in darkness. Not a single ray, from any of the rooms. Not a sound. Very, very suspicious. As he took of his shoes, washed his hands in the bathroom sink and was on his way to slink into his room, his suspicions were confirmed.

In the blink of an eye, ALL LIGHTS were flipped on, blinding him after he had gotten used to navigating without it, and a pyjamas-clad Wooyoung hopped out from behind the kitchen counters, recorder in his hands, and started playing an ear-bleed worthy rendition of George Michael's Careless Whisper.

There was no such thing as dynamics in this interpretation. It was just continuous musical screaming. One that made Yeosang double over and cover his ears. He thought it would end there. But, alas, the vocal line had other plans. A wild San and Jongho strolled out from their respective rooms, and launched into one of the later parts of the song. Damn were they going to have to apologise to the neighbours for this... again.

"TONIGHT THE MUSIC SEEMS SO LOUD-"

"...it sure IS GUYS CAN YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP WE ARE TRYING TO SLEEP!?" a disheveled Seonghwa stormed out of his room, a selfie stick in his hands that now appeared to be a little to much like a weapon.

"I WISH THAT WE COULD LOSE THIS CROWD-"

"...guys I will legit dispose of all of you and JONGHO I CAN FIGHT YOU TOO I AM NOT AFRAID!" Mingi stepped out too, barely having time to put on his glasses, but with one 'you wanna fight bro' taunt from Jongho - and him moving to stand in a boxing position, made the taller member turn right around and loudly proclaim 'NOPE'.

"MAYBE IT'S BETTER THIS WAY"

"WE'D HURT EACH OTHER WITH THE THINGS WE'D WANT TO SAY"

"Guys???? Is no one going to stop them?????" Seonghwa was at a loss, and searching for salvation in Yunho, who just stepped out, and was leaning against his doorframe.

"Nah, I have no beef with Yeosang, he was a homie when I was having problems with a certain someone. Now his roommates on the other hand... well, you can see they want their revenge for the savagery." he simply shrugged, enjoying the show of a very flustered Yeosang not knowing how to process what was happening.

"At my ears' expense? Why is Hongjoong not home... OH HONGJOONG HELLO!!!!" Seonghwa spotted another figure at the door - an incredibly disturbed captain, who had initially walked in with a small smile on his face, but that rapidly turned to disgust.

"I swear I leave y'all for just a COUPLE OF HOURS and you legit start a shitty flute band????? What brain cell is responsible I need to have a word, and YEOSANG? Where were you?"

Yeosang was hoping that Hongjoong would not pay much attention to him since he was not the one being loud, and he managed to make his way behind the San and Jongho line, but nope. Eagle eyes. When he did not respond, Hongjoong basically flung his shoes off his feet and stormed across the room while muttering:

"I swear to all that is good in the world I am wearing all black because I am about to attend y'all's funeral."

"And not because.... goth gf?" Yeosang could not help it. He saw the opportunity."

"BOI sit down on the couch right now, and Woo give me this... instrument? When did you get this?"

"This morning. Saw it on sale. Isn't it great?"

"You should have picked this as your 'main object to describe you' for Watcha."

"Life-changing, monumental, legendary?"

"Loud. RIGHT. Seems you and Jongho are also part of this little... escapade involving Yeo's disappearance into the midnight. Care to explain?" Hongjoong's exhaustion was evident as he lowered his voice and was generally on the verge of letting them do whatever. But once a leader, always a leader. And he could feel that something was up. Something that needed his involvement.

The other members promptly retreated to their rooms, since their wake up alarms were going to be ringing in a couple of hours and they needed to at least pretend they got eight hours of sleep. San quite literally skipped back to bed, seeing as he managed to have his share of chaotic fun, but escaped the scolding. The only one to remain was Seonghwa, who sat down at the dining table and set the selfie stick of doom aside.

Hongjoong took one of the chairs and slid it towards the living area, so that he could sit in front of today's trouble maker trio. Clearing his throat, he asked no one in particular:

"Okay. Why do I find out about everything only after it happens?"

"Maybe because you don't come home?" Wooyoung quipped, stopping playing with his phone and looking up to face the leader.

"Excuse me, I don't come because I am working, for you guys, by the way. I literally carry the ATEEZ lore on my shoulders." obviously hurt, Hongjoong sent back a retort.

"No wonder you are the closest to the ground." Jongho commented on the other's height, looking off in a different direction, the picture of innocence.

"Yeah, so I'll drag you to hell if you dare say that shit again."

"Calm down, demon line rep, it's just banter." Wooyoung stepped in, because even though he did sent a thumbs up to the maknae behind his back for being so quick, he did not want this argument to get any more heated. "Plus, weren't you out on a date tonight, and not working, as you so proudly say?"

"Uh... that... I was yes." Hongjoong could not deny it. At the end of the day, it just would not be respectful to the one he was out with.

"Bro code?" Yeosang asked, breaking his silence.

"I'm sorry, bro, but I am afraid your bro code evaluation and policing privileges have been revoked, you are in the grey zone." Wooyoung turned his attention to him, a smirk on his lips.

"Wait hold up back it up-"

"Yeah you heard Hongjoong, baaaack it up-" Wooyoung was about to hop up, with every intent to begin twerking, but Jongho pulled him right back down and forcefully held him in place.

"And you should retire from your ho era." Jongho addressed him, face remaining emotionless.

"Okay Jong-ho."

"Do you want this fist?"

"Yes fist me."

"Just- oh my word." Jongho face palmed at Wooyoung's intentionally out of pocket statement. At least it did the trick of getting everyone to move on and right back to the main topic at hand.

"Anyways... Yeosang, care to elaborate about this so-called grey zone?"

"First off, they are blowing it out of proportion just to take revenge on me. Second off, I met up with someone today." he kept it vague for now. Maybe it would be enough.

"And I take it that someone is in your sphere of interests, yes?"

Yeosang starts blushing and looks away. Of course, that was not enough. And of course Hongjoong knew him far too well to see he was acting smitten.

"OH MY GOSH YES IT IS SEONGHWA GET THE CAMERA KANG YEOSANG LIKES SOMEONE!" Hongjoong, acting like the dad he was, called out to the eldest, who just remained sitting in his place, processing.

"Dude not so loud the others will give me so much shit." Yeosang pleaded, waving downwards at Hongjoong to emphasise the need for a volume drop.

"I think all the shit has gathered on that couch next to you my guy." with a grand gesture, Hongjoong swept over the two others on the couch with Yeosang.

He glanced in their direction, surprised that they did not act out, and only shrugged.

"Okay, so, who is it?" Hongjoong was not letting up.

"Do I really have to-"

"Yes. Yes you do."

"Y/N."

"Okay? Do I know her, this Y/N?"

"Well... maybe. L/N Y/N?"

Hongjoong went pale in the face upon hearing that name. He took a moment, and asked for Yeosang to repeat it. Once he confirmed for himself that no, he was not being delusional and this in fact really was you, that he was aware of, that Yeosang was talking about, he was distressed.

"So... you are talking to press, basically." Hongjoong jumped to the conclusion, disappointing Yeosang.

"Where did that come from?"

"I should be asking you that, Yeo! How the fuck did you even reach her?"

"I just... I just did." he did not want his friends to get mixed up in this. At the end of the day, it was he who was your fan... it was he who liked you.

"Ugh, okay fine. Yeah, media people are all over the place. But were you even thinking? She is a big name in the industry right now. If she wants to she can squash us, and here you are selling yourself out?"

"Why are you saying all of this nonsense about her? What did she ever do to you?" Yeosang raised his voice, discouraged by the aggression he was suddenly having to face. The derogatory remarks, the prejudice, all of this was now hurting him personally.

"I know the likes of her. They try to get close, really butter you up and then they expose you and hang all your dirty laundry out to the world."

"Who hurt you, man?" Wooyoung placed a reassuring hand on Yeosang's shoulder. It was not hard to guess that this was the last thing he wanted to hear.

"Shut it Wooyoung, I am worried!"

"Dude, she is really nice and understanding, have you ever even seen an episode of-"

"Have YOU ever filmed a variety show or been interviewed before? You know how we all change in front of the camera. So. Does. She. She gets paid to act, 'tis the way of life."

"I think you are overreacting Hongjoong." Jongho joined back in.

"Look. Music people? Fine. Internet people or athletes? fine. Literally so many other people except those that drag us through the dirt? So fine. But this is just dangerous. Yeosang. You trust so easily, and I do not want you to get in trouble, nor subject yourself to the terrors that come with such close, unmediated interactions with those people."

"You are saying such shit about Y/N right now, and you dare attribute terrible qualities to her? I'll have you know she has NOT ONCE exposed ANYONE! She purposefully CUTS THINGS OUT OF HER SHOW IF THEY ARE SENSITIVE, even if including them would bring her more views. She literally helps her guests out of uncomfortable topics, and-"

"So she is manipulative?"

"WHY ARE YOU TWISTING THINGS?"

"As much as we need media people to survive, there are vultures out there, and I don't want you to become a victim of one. Seonghwa, thoughts?"

Hongjoong turned around, expecting support from his friend, only to see that he was face down forehead resting on his arms, and fast asleep. Hongjoong groaned, and turned back, his voice dropped into a whisper.

"One last thing from me then. I suggest you stop talking to her before things get serious. And no talking back at me right now. We need to be up soon so get your ass to bed."

As Yeosang watched the two eldest going back inside the room - Seonghwa having been awakened just enough for him to be able to migrate on his own, he was distraught. He did not believe a single word Hongjoong had said. Especially not in your address.

Yes, he knew far too well about how hatred can spread. He knew about the negativity, and about just how ruthless a journalist could be. But Yeosang also had the chance to meet you, and had spent even longer learning about you. And you were nothing like the rest. Not one bit. And just like that Yeosang decided to go against his own Captain.

"So... uh... want to learn how to sneak out of the dorms unnoticed?" Wooyoung leaned over and mumbled, making sure no one except those left in the living room could hear.

"I can help you plan better meet ups." the maknae offered his support immediately too.

Yeosang felt like crying, there really were people on his side. And on your side. Those who saw through the horrific, unfounded claims.

The next day, he took the risk and slipped the LND brochure into one of the senior publicity manager's desks. He was not sure whether it would work, nor if he would get caught, but he did not care. He was trying his best to repay you.

He did not bring up this topic to any of the members except his roommates, and was stoic enough to not give rise to any suspicions. Hongjoong had all but forgotten the quarrel, preoccupied with promotional schedules and training.

But, under Wooyoung's and Jongho's guidance, unconditional support and even pestering, Yeosang continued seeing you. If Jongho had the abilities to be an orchestrator of the most elaborate plans, Yeosang was doing it in 6-dimensional space, since not only was he dedicated to keeping his connection with you alive, but you too were giving 200%.

He did not give a single shit about what his hyungs had to say. Because you made him happy. You listened, you asked, you shared everything with him. You did not have a single judgmental bone in your body.

You had organised a couple of your 'meetings' (but really a couple of months in you had long transitioned to calling them dates) together with Yeosang's roommates, because he wanted them to meet you. They could not be more gleeful, and you had impressed them both.

During one of the deeper conversations, after Wooyoung had asked about whether you had known anything exclusive about them ever, you offhandedly mentioned certain Dispatch pictures of Wooyoung leaving a cafe after closing hours. Initially, that made Wooyoung ill at ease, suddenly remembering what Hongjoong had said. But then you launched into a story of how you almost physically fought the paparazzo who had taken the picture, and the editors, managing to make them delete some of the more 'exclusive' and 'breaking' pics that involved another person, for good.

This had elevated you beyond belief in the two members' eyes, and made Yeosang completely fall in love with you. He had never expected for that to happen so quickly, but you were easy to adore. He felt it - this was for the long run, and he was willing to fight for it.

You were witty, and smart and really could see through any bullshit and would strike if the situation called for it, but you never did it out of pocket. In reality, you were the nicest, most selfless person of all time. You cared about everyone.

At first, you were his coach and a fellow MC, then you were his inspiration, then you were his love.

Now, because every camera and stage where he had to MC was associated with you for him, so Yeosang glowed on camera. He just pretended that he was talking with you, and it all flowed. He had also improved his skills greatly, and had allowed himself to joke, to be truly joyful and just... be himself.

You had almost completely regained your faith in the industry, thanks to Yeosang always cheering you on. After any episode of your show, he would get back to you with a detailed review, and would praise you and if it was a date night, would bring a little gift, to celebrate.

During one such date, he had bought you a delicate silver chain bracelet, and asked you to be his girlfriend. Because even though Hongjoong and probably Seonghwa too would not approve, he did not see any other way being right. Much to his delight, you had agreed then and there.

All was calm, and all was bright, until one day, you had to come to the KQ Entertainment building because the publicists responsible for ATEEZ promotions had contacted you about a potential interview. Although it had been a few months, you were no stranger to waiting. Moreover, this made your heart soar as you just knew this was Yeosang's doing.

It was a success. By fate, filming could be done next week. You were ecstatic. Yeosang had explicitly told you of how the leader of ATEEZ felt about you, but you did not mind it, so long as he could be professional. But that hope flew out of the window when you accidentally bumped into him when strutting down one of the numerous corridors.

He recognised you instantly, and the side eye he gave you was less than pleasant. Smile a little too tight, phrases too generic and superficial, he was definitely less than fond of you.

You tried to turn the conversation around, and mentioned how you were excited to learn more about his leadership and hard work, about how he operated in the studio, his inspirations. But this led him to just grunt and rather coldly state that 'ah, so that's happening'.

Hongjoong guessed quickly enough that you were talking to Yeosang. And that broke him, for not only was Yeosang in danger, in the leader's eyes, but also that the member felt the need to lie, and conceal his feelings towards you. He was up front, and asked if you were together, to which you responded with a quick yes.

At that moment, none other than Wooyoung had walked around the corner, and sensing a possible conflict nearly ran over to the two of you. If hands were going to be thrown he was ready - no way in hell was anyone messing with Yeosang and the one he loved.

"What's popping party people? Manager just texted that we'll be on Late Night Dive, isn't it exciting? And hello Y/N!"

"Did you know?"

"Know what?"

"That she, and Yeosang, they are... they are dating?"

"Boy they are official. Not just dating. Really a match made in heaven let me tell you. If you were to open your freaking eyes dude, you would see just how happy Yeosang is. Hah sorry Y/N, but yeah man's glowing."

"Is there any reason for me to fully trust that you won't do any harm?"

"For once I can say, time is on my side, for I never had, have, nor ever will want to harm him, nor anyone connected to him. You do not need to trust me, Hongjoong. I accept that and am used to it. What I would like is for ATEEZ to be harmonious, and for us to connect. I really respect you, and it would be a shame if we could not get to know each other better."

Your colleague, who had just wrapped up another meeting, called out to you as they appeared in the corridor. You parted ways with the two ATEEZ members before either of them could say anything else.

After you left, Wooyoung noticed a figure standing off to the side, evidently someone who had been in hiding, but chose to reveal themselves only now. It was a livid Yeosang, who had been hoping to find you, but now, just wanted to give Hongjoong a piece of his mind.

He admonished the leader for being so weirdly judgmental of you. For not wanting to just be happy for his own close friend. For being hypocritical, and forgetting about the fact that love was often found in the most unexpected places.

And it just so happened that yes, Yeosang had found his love in you. In a person who had dedicated themselves to journalism. Media. Broadcasting. Televised entertainment. Interviews. Celebrity life. But that was not not a manifestation of some kind of evil. Quite the opposite. It was you searching for the best in people. By doing what you did, you made people shine brighter than the damn sun.

He dropped facts on Hongjoong about how you had purposefully invited a star who was receiving unjust hate, and thanks to that episode, literally transformed their career for the better. Yeosang did not fail to mention the Wooyoung Dispatch - a recounting which made the Captain's jaw drop.

And, explaining that if Hongjoong still did not want to care about you a single bit, then he should know that only thanks to you was Yeosang so much more confident. thanks to you was he getting more offers to MC, or to make guest appearances. Because you had changed him. And he was proud of it.

Oh how Hongjoong regretted being skeptical and untrusting after seeing Yeosang's certainty. But the innumerable apologies that had followed that day, and lasted for the week until interview filming did little to influence Yeosang and how he was treating Hongjoong in private - like a stranger. Hongjoong needed to apologise to you.

It was the day, and ATEEZ made their way to the company where you worked. After styling and some final touches on makeup, they appeared on set and greeted the staff. You were nowhere in sight. As they were instructed on how they were going to make their appearance, and on different cues and generally what the structure was like, Yeosang kept on looking around.

In part because 'woah this was the real deal this was the set'. In part because he desperately wanted to see you. To cheer you on like he always did.

You appeared on set ten minutes before the scheduled time slot, and since you had to communicate some details to the staff, you barely had any time left for ATEEZ. You exchanged niceties and were incredibly polite (but extra friendly to Wooyoung and Jongho, and sent a loving glance towards Yeosang), but that was it. Hongjoong was becoming more concerned.

But there was no purpose in that, as the interview went better than anything he could have hoped for. Everyone was engaged, you asked each member questions that resonated with them, threw in some cheekier comments to successfully elicit laughter, and really were the master that Yeosang had described.

You had even given Hongjoong special attention for his captain status, which left him in awe. How were you not mad at him? Were you indifferent? Were you just an amazing actress? Not really, you just had a thing for asking a lot of questions, and understood how people were when they were trying to protect someone they loved.

But what had left a permanent impact on him, was Yeosang. He was the most joyful and comfortable of the lot - a stark contrast to the more introverted disposition he normally adopted. He was in the same flow state as you, and at times was almost like a guest host, an improved role which you had welcomed. Yeosang was screen time king. He made you laugh, effortlessly recounted stories, did not spoil any shows, stages or comebacks but instead sent witty remarks your way. Finally Hongjoong could see, you really did give Yeosang everything and more.

After filming, Hongjoong had taken a split-second opportunity and apologised a number of times, with each iteration becoming more and more formal until he was basically doing a ninety degree bow. But you had forgiven him much faster than that, because being who you were and having seen the things you had seen (due to your job), you were not one to ever stay angry for long, if at all.

As you chatted away, with your boyfriend promptly joining you, both of you were elated, and were inseparable during a private dinner that the eldest members had organised. You had helped to pick out the venue, knowing exactly which locations were the safest - perhaps it was going to turn out to be very advantageous for the group in general to have you on their team.

Yeosang was over the moon as he watched you work your social magic - how you rapidly became close with each one of the members off camera, and were, quite simply, being yourself. His heart melted at the way you so quickly integrated yourself, and the adorable smiles, meant just for him, as well as the squeezes of his hand under the table... he really was a goner.

If he were to be told even a year ago that he was going to find a you in his life, he would have laughed. Because then, he had not yet understood that the most important phrase to live by was, in fact, not a statement, but a question. A dare, a motivator to take risks and a description for how you and Yeosang had become a beautiful duo:

Why not?

You and Yeosang had a thing for asking questions. And now, together, were crafting the answers, one by one.