#Oh yeah I love korean dramas

[yuiyuuji]

I am sorry, I am super late to the party but I was tagged by tagged by @takemetoasummereve Again.. Thank you! ♥ rules: shuffle your songs and post the first 10 that come 

1. Like a river runs - Bleachers, Sia

2. Empy - Car, the garden

3. Anaheim - Don Broco

4. Arsonist's Lullabye - Hozier

5. A Memory Away - Matt Maeson

6. Make It Rain - Ed Sheeran

7. All Things End - Hozier

8. Lover - Taylor Swift

9. Ai ni dekiru koto wa mada aru kai - RADWIMPS

10. Goal Of The Century - Gang of Youths

And I am only tagging @portinaris because I know I will love it. xD

[channiesunshinx]

Heyy! I wasn't sure if you're doing request or not so feel free to ignore this!

Could you do a Minho x reader with a miscommunixation trope. Angst with a happy ending maybe?

It could be Minho speaking to others in Korean but R only knows a bit of Korean and misheard it as something else and gets upset.

Sry if this a bit long! But I absolutely adore your work!

𝒯𝓇𝒶𝓃𝓈𝓁𝒶𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃

Pairing: Minho x F!reader Genre: Romance, drama, slice of life, miscommunication Warning: Language barrier, miscommunication

Minho and the other members were sitting around in their dorm, chatting and joking after a long day of practice. Y/N, Minho's girlfriend, had recently started learning Korean, and although her skills were improving, she still found it hard to catch every word. She was sitting on the couch, trying to follow the conversation, occasionally glancing at Minho, her boyfriend, hoping he'd translate for her.

As Minho spoke with the members, the conversation turned to something funny that had happened earlier at the practice studio.

“그럼, 그때 내가 그만큼 미쳤다는 걸 못 믿겠어.”

(“I can't believe I was that crazy at that time.”)

“맞아! 진짜 미친 거 같았어.”

(“Yeah! You really seemed crazy.”)

Y/N looked up, trying to piece together what they were saying. But then, Minho said something that made her stop cold, her heart sinking.

“근데 사실, 이 관계는 그냥 장난인 거 같아.”

(“But honestly, I think this relationship is just a joke.”)

She froze, staring at him, her mind racing. Did he just say that? Her face went pale. Her stomach twisted. Just a joke? She couldn't believe what she'd heard. Minho had always been so loving and kind to her—how could he say something like that?

Minho, oblivious to her distress, continued talking and laughing with the members. Y/N stood up quietly, trying to hold back the tears, and walked out of the living room, heading toward the balcony. She needed some space to think.

Felix, who had been listening closely, noticed the change in the atmosphere. He saw Y/N leave in a hurry, her face downcast. He exchanged a quick look with Minho before walking over to her.

“Y/N, are you okay?”

Y/N looked up at him, her eyes already glossy. “Minho… he... he said it was just a joke,” she murmured, her voice shaky. “He doesn't really care about me, does he?”

Felix frowned, his heart aching for her. “What did he say?”

“He said our relationship was just a joke...” she repeated, tears spilling over. “Am I just a joke to him? I thought he loved me.”

Felix quickly realized what had happened. “Oh, that's not what he meant!” He laughed lightly, trying to ease the tension. “He was talking about something completely different, Y/N.”

Y/N wiped her eyes, confused. “What? But... I heard him say that it was just a joke. I don't understand.”

Felix smiled, shaking his head. “It was just a joke.” He paused, thinking carefully. “He said it was crazy, but he wasn't talking about your relationship. It's just... the story from practice. He wasn't talking about you at all.”

Y/N blinked, still not completely convinced. Felix could see she was struggling to understand.

“Let me go get Minho,” he offered.

Minho entered the balcony area moments later, his expression concerned when he saw Y/N sitting there, looking distressed. He stepped toward her, reaching out slowly.

“Y/N, what's wrong? Why do you look so sad?”

Y/N hesitated, her voice trembling. “You... you said it was just a joke. Is that how you feel about our relationship?”

Minho’s face fell as he quickly realized what had happened. ““No, that's not it! What are you talking about?”

Felix, still standing nearby, smiled gently. "Y/N, he was talking about something from practice. It was just a joke.”

Minho nodded, his eyes wide. “I'm so sorry. I didn't know you heard it like that.”

Y/N blinked in confusion, her heart pounding. “So... you weren't saying that you don't care about me? That I'm just a joke to you?”

Minho took a deep breath, his eyes filled with regret. He sat down next to her, taking her hand gently. “No, I never meant that. You're the most important person to me. I'm taking our relationship seriously.”

Tears welled up in Y/N's eyes again, but this time, they were tears of relief. She let out a shaky laugh, still a little overwhelmed. “I... I just misunderstood. I'm sorry for freaking out.”

Minho chuckled softly, wiping away a tear from her cheek. “It's my fault. I should have been more careful.”

Felix gave them both a playful look and then backed away, allowing them some privacy. “Alright, I'll leave you two to sort it out. Be happy!”

Minho and Y/N shared a quiet moment together, and Minho pulled her closer. “I promise, I'll be more careful with my words. I never want to hurt you.”

Y/N smiled softly, her heart at ease now. “I know... I know you wouldn’t. I just... I don't always understand everything, but I'm trying.”

Minho smiled, brushing a lock of her hair behind her ear. “I love you. And I'll be right here, teaching you, helping you... forever.”

Y/N leaned into his embrace, her worries melting away.

[writhyv]

⋆｡°✩ your idol answers your call

I-800-LOVE-YOU | nishimura riki x male!reader

pairing: niki x male!reader

genre: fluff (silly ni-ki)

word count: 1.6k

notes: couldn't wait so i had to do another round for ni-ki AAAAAAA i love him sm guys 🥺

After a lively fan meeting, you grapple yourself with self-doubt and curiosity, ultimately dialing ENHYPEN Ni-ki’s number, unsure of what to expect.

You fiddled with your phone as your fingers moved through the virtual keys. Contemplating, you bit your lip while burying yourself in deep thought.

Should I expect him to personally answer? you thought to yourself. He's probably messing with me, another thought fluttered through your mind. Is this really it? The final realization hit you hard.

With a hesitant push, you dialed the number that was given to you. You didn't even know why you did it, but curiosity propelled you forward.

Out of all the people inside that hall, why you? Why had that idol paid attention to you? Was it because of how you looked? How you spoke? A myriad of reasons swirled in your mind, but it was never too late to—

"Hello?"

You jolted in shock and nearly tossed your phone onto your bed. Fortunately, you had pressed the loudspeaker, allowing the somewhat familiar tone to resonate through the room.

"Hellooo~" the other person tried again, a hint of playfulness in his voice.

"Ah, um…"

"Ah, um?"

"I-it's me… The guy from—"

"Yeah!" Ni-ki hurriedly responded, catching his breath before attempting to regain his composure. "I-I mean, I wasn't… waiting or anything. Ahem."

"Oh." You spoke, surprised by his abrupt tone change, but strangely, it didn't bother you.

Ni-ki felt a surge of cringe as he realized he had come off too dismissive. "I-I meant I had something to do… But it's good to hear from you."

A smile crept onto your face. You probably misunderstood what the young idol meant, so you let that small bit go unnoticed.

"Busy?" you asked, genuinely concerned.

"As a bee," Ni-ki answered quickly.

"Really?"

"Yeah. Bzzzzz~"

You laughed as you heard him starting to speak gibberish from across the line. Little did you know, your laughter triggered something in him—an unexpected flutter of butterflies dancing within. Just folly, he thought, but the feeling was undeniable.

"Don't laugh at me. I am busy as a bee," Ni-ki insisted with mock sass.

"I know, I know, you're a performer and all."

Both of you fell quiet for a moment, caught in a comfortable silence. It was a raw bit, something rarely captured in dramas—the unspoken thoughts lingering between you.

"Let me get straight to it." You shifted in your chair. "Why did you want me to call you back?"

Ni-ki spun around in his chair, searching for a reasonable answer but struggling to articulate his thoughts. "You just… seemed different to me. That's all."

Although you found his answer somewhat vague, you had to believe it. There was probably no other reason, but you were willing to accept anything over nothing to satisfy your curiosity.

"Hmm. Is it because I'm the only guy there earlier?"

"What do you mean? There's us—"

"You're from a boy group. It's not really commonplace, so I understand." You spoke, drawing from your earlier life experiences.

"Ah yeah. But no!" Ni-ki leaned back in his chair, clearing his throat to emphasize his point. "I just wanted to get to know why someone like you was there that day."

Another curious answer from Ni-ki made you tilt your head.

"It doesn't seem strange to me," he continued. "I just wanted to know why you're a fan."

You smiled, beginning to understand his perspective. You were well aware of how much idols valued their fans, but this was close enough to make you melt into a puddle.

"Actually," you tried to speak clearly through the phone. "I just got into Korea. Back home, I was caught up in a lot of things. And before that, I wasn't really familiar with you guys."

Ni-ki's surprise was palpable. "You're not Korean?"

Now, it was your turn to be shocked. "Wah… That's the part you're surprised about?"

"I mean, you looked cool," he mused, trying to recall how you had appeared earlier. "You were definitely there to tease me, trying to catch my attention and stealing it from my other fans." He chuckled, a slight smirk forming on his lips.

"Hey!" You defended. "I wasn't really doing anything!"

Ni-ki laughed loudly, attempting to ease the atmosphere. "I was kidding."

A brief silence followed.

"You really looked quite different, so I had to take the chance," he said earnestly.

You contemplated his words. Ni-ki seemed like a young guy who probably never truly got to enjoy his teenage years. It must have been endless practices and recitals, training and such. You couldn't even fathom what he had to endure all those years before meeting him.

"So you wanted someone to be friends with, hmm?" you ventured, surprised at your own boldness.

"That and… I don't really like talking to just anyone," Ni-ki sighed. "It may get me hate, but sometimes, people feel too comfortable with me. It bothers me that I can't move without people constantly trying to get a hold of me."

You listened carefully as he spoke, his words revealing a sincere longing for companionship. Despite the uncertainty, you found yourself wanting to lend an ear.

"I get it," you replied after a moment of silence.

"Yeah."

"Then I'll lend you my own ear. Or whatever you want."

Ni-ki's face lit up with pure gladness. As he heard your words, he leaned closer to the phone. "Then be my fan."

You quirked your brows at this unexpected request. "Huh?"

"You said you really weren't an Engene as much as you want to be, so I'll challenge you to be one. Maybe someone solely supporting me. Yeah?" Ni-ki said, trying to frame it as a challenge.

You pondered for a moment before arriving at a conclusion.

"Fine. I'll be a fan."

Ni-ki raised his hand triumphantly. "No wait! Something better. I've got one!"

You waited, curious about what he might come up with this time.

"Let's get closer with each other. How about that?"

You were taken aback. Was he trying to hit on you, or was this some kind of prank? Surely he wasn't joking at this hour?

"Ni-ki, right? Are you okay? How can a fan be—"

"Just keep me company," Ni-ki smiled, his sincerity shining through. "I would love to have a new face keep watch over me."

You tried to process the ridiculous idea but all you could do was agree and comply with his whimsy.

"You sure it's okay?" you asked cautiously. He was a popular idol, after all. There were too many caveats to befriending someone this famous.

"We'll be fine," Ni-ki reassured you, wanting you to trust him. He aimed to prove himself reliable in moments like this.

You thought for a long while, weighing your options. All of that led to an answer you had already predicted.

"Sure." You smiled. "I'll be your friend, Ni-ki."

"Nishimura Riki." He stated proudly. "That's my full name."

You chuckled lightly. "I knew that. I've read tons of guides about you guys."

Ni-ki rolled his eyes, a playful grin on his face. "Sure. But you've got the actual me here right now. Let me be your guide. Hmm?"

You thought again, but this time, it didn’t require much deliberation. “Sure. Whatever you say.”

"Call me whatever you want," Ni-ki offered.

"Ni-ki still sounds cool."

"You don't think it's boring?"

"I think it's uniquely you. Ni-ki."

Ni-ki smiled as he heard his name from your voice. It felt like a sweet haven to him.

"Then I won't bother you anymore tonight," Ni-ki said, preparing to let you rest.

"That's alright. You should go rest too," you replied, sending your regards. "Thanks for answering."

Ni-ki brushed his hair back as he heard your gratitude. "I just had the phone in my hand; you were very lucky."

You chuckled. "Whatever. Goodnight, Ni-ki."

"Goodnight!" Just then, he heard the beep signaling the end of the call.

"Aish! I tapped too early!" You muttered as you slipped your finger toward the end button. "He probably thinks I'm inconvenienced by his call! Ughhh!"

As you thought about that awkward end call, it was a separate situation for Ni-ki.

"Wait, I hung up on my ear?!" Ni-ki exclaimed, clutching the skin flap of his left ear.

Heeseung laughed as he watched Ni-ki fumble with his phone, pacing around the room in confusion.

"He's totally going to think I got bored! Hyung, help me out!" Ni-ki plopped down on the soft couch, bouncing Heeseung from the other side.

"Yah!" Heeseung wailed. "Ugh. Don't dwell on it too much. You did pretty good."

Ni-ki scratched his head, contemplating whether he should call you again.

"Don't even bother; the guy was already confused as to why you liked him," Jay chimed in from a seat away. "It's best if you talk together somewhere outside. A nice meal would be a good treat for him, no?"

Ni-ki looked at Jay, a smile creeping onto his face. "That actually sounds nice. Thanks, hyungs!" he clasped his hands together, acting with a respectful bow as he exited the living room.

Left to their own devices, Heeseung and Jay settled into the couch Ni-ki had just vacated.

"He clearly had the hots for that guy the moment he saw him," Jay said, cracking open a pack of chips.

"Love at first sight, I guess?" Heeseung smiled at the memory, diving his hands into the cheesy snack in front of him. "God, that's good. Mmhm."

"Hopefully, he can be honest with the guy," Jay remarked, munching away. "He needs someone to be his emotional support right now."

Heeseung turned to Jay, a questioning look on his face. "Don't we all?"

Jay chuckled. "Just let him be. We've got his back if things go south." He tapped Heeseung's back reassuringly.

Heeseung smiled, reflecting on how Ni-ki was growing up each day. It was a thought that warmed his heart, and he hoped for the best for his friend.

HEHE I HOPE YOU LIKED IT YALLLL

| masterlist! | previous | next |

[imnameimswrld]

Older

lee soohyuk x model!reader

━━ ❪ description: yn gets over a breakup and ends up meeting someone older, who knows exactly how to treat her right // smau, age gap. ❫

━━ ❪ warnings: language ❫

━━ ❪ fc: jennie kim ❫

ynusername

liked by gigihadid, nicolaannepeltzbeckham, and 8 345 898 others

ynusername life lately : /

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user hol' on...WHAT

user did her and tae break up or ???

user wait a damn minute...someone...older ?

user okay but hear me out... is it just me who feels like yn wanted be public about her relationship, and since tae is a super private person, he didn't ?

⤿ user I bet it must've been hard for yn, because we all know how much of a physically affectionate person she is, and all the times they were pictured together, she always had her hands behind her back with a sad look on her face

⤿ user FINALLY ya'll are seeing how so not right they were for each other, jeez – they clearly wanted different things for their relationship.

⤿ user just proves that, just because you're in the same industry, doesn't mean you'll get along.

user soo...older men, huh ? why do I feel she about to do something wild...

koreadispatch

liked by user, user, and 678 335 others

koreadispatch SPOTTED: this past weekend following up towards Y/N L/N's launch party with her collaboration with Calvin Klein, the top model has been spotted out more than once with a new man on her arm. At first his face couldn't be seen, until...it could.

It's none other than famous South Korean "Tomorrow" actor, Lee Soohyuk. Like she said, it appears Miss L/N is indeed, into older men now – but what went down with her previous partner, fellow top model Kim Taehyung ?

Comment your thoughts down bellow !!

#YnLn #LeeSoohyuk #KimTaehyung #koreandispatch

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user chanel told yn "no way you're dating a celine boy on our watch ! here, have a dior MAN instead."

⤿ user LMAO 😭😭

user so mother wasn't kidding ? she really is into older men...

user damn he's fine...

user ...daddy ? yeah, he's very much daddy.

user I watched the drama and i fell for him immediately... he is SO GORGEOUS OMFG

⤿ user SAME OMG, honestly, mother yn slayed

ynusername added to their story

[ seen by leesoohyuk, iamhyunjishin, and 8 238 333 others ]

leesoohyuk

liked by ynusername, sooyaaa_, and 3 448 090 others

leesoohyuk my pretty,

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user OH. MY. FUCKING. GOD.

user this feels surreal. this man almost NEVER posts.

user tell me he's not hacked...cause it's been 7 months since his last post

ynusername your pretty what, hon ?"

⤿ leesoohyuk come over from that side of the bath and I'll tell you.

[ liked by ynusername ]

⤿ user I...what...they...oh.

⤿ user THE BATH !?

user holy shit this is...this is... MY PARENTS !?

user bro said screw soft launching, this is a HARD LAUNCH

user a whole post dedicated to her ? oh yeah, he's in deep.

ynusername

liked by leesoohyuk, xeesoxee, and 9 334 990 others

ynusername and in a world full of boys, he's a gentleman ♡

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user yes mother. YES MOTHER.

taylorswift i am in love with your love.

[ liked by ynusername ]

user TAYTAY !? okay, taylor and yn collab WHEN

user he truly treats her like a queen...where's my older man ? 😔

user them>>> the wolrd.

leesoohyuk you deserve only the best, my love

⤿ ynusername mhm...so, round 3 ?

[ liked by leesoohyuk ]

user I'm sorry...WHAT !?!!!?

user oh they are insane... and i love it.

user so... onlyfans when ?

user I am so here for yn's idgaf attitude, because she ain't messing with boys no more, she has a MAN now.

[ liked by ynusername ]

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

[slutforsnow]

High But Not Stupid

Oh my gods?? a one shot?? hell yeah <3 Thanos my love 💜 YUMESONA X THANOS

CW: Discrimination, 18+ implications, transphobia.

I hope the translator I used wasn't awful💔

Player 069 was.... unhinged, to say the least, and it wasn't just because he was the only American in a room filled with 455 other men and women. He was the only foreigner in the giant bunk room, and not to mention, he was a broke college student with terrible spending habits. Yet, Thanos wanted him on his team from day one.

The male had somehow snuck a butcher knife into the games and currently was spinning the blade between his fingers as Thanos & Nam-gyu drunkenly rambled about non-sense while being high, Thanos throwing in his rapping skills. Se-mi, Min-su & Cael watched them, talking amongst each other in rough English, the two teaching Caelus Korean to try and break down that language barrier.

It was just another couple of hours of waiting for the next game when Cael had to use the toilet and he begrudgingly pushed himself up.

"나는 화장실에 가고 있습니다. 잠깐 후에 돌아올게요," He told them, slowly pronunciating the words so he didn't mess up. [Translation: I am going to the bathroom. I will be back in a minute]

"Well done!" Se-mi told him, playfully swatting him on the arm. "좋아지고 있어요!" [Translation: "You're getting better!"]

Caelus gave her a smile once he mentally translated her words and walked off to the bathroom, but not before putting his knife on the bunk he had been sitting on.

Once he was passed the guard, he walked into the men's bathroom, only to be slammed into the wall, hitting the ground, his glasses sliding off his face clattering against the cold tiles.

"AUGH, HIJO DE PUTA," Caelus groaned, his ears ringing from the force of the fall. Muffled laughter came from above him as he tried to force himself up, only to be met with a kick to the stomach, which ripped a grunt of pain as he hit the floor again. [Translation: "SON OF A BITCH"]

"그녀의 진짜 목소리가 여기 있어요," An older man's voice said, snickering. [Translation: "There's her real voice"]

'Her,' the man had said. In Cael's buzzing head, that was a word he caught, and he groaned. Older men who were stuck in their transphobic ways and probably needed their dicks wet on a 'small foreign girl'. They just needed confirmation that Cael wasn't cisgender and seized the opportunity when Cael walked in.

He let out a shaky sigh, pushing himself up, coughing. Of course, he left his knife back with Se-mi. He left his knife behind the ONE time he truly needed it. Damn South Korea and its lack of anti-discrimination laws. Shaking his head, he pushed his hair out of his face, his vision blurry as he searched the floor for his glasses. Fuck, his vision must've been shitty if he couldn't find them on tiles.

"Looking for these?" *One of the men asked, holding Cael's glasses in front of his face, snatching them away when the American reached for them. "Ah, ah, not yet. You'll get them back when you do us a favor."

"For fucks sake-" Cael started, sitting up now, leaning against the stall divider.

But the younger was cut off when the familiar aiuns of random English broke into the bathroom. "Heyy, man, leave him be!"

"Thanos," Caelus said, laughing as he easily plucked Cae's glasses from the other two players. "Thank the gods you're here."

"Heard some whispers, spreadin' Caelus' name.; Lemme set the record straight, listen close, it's plain: Leave that trans guy alone, he's just cruisin' his own lane; He ain't botherin' nobody, livin' his true life free,; Got no time for drama, got more important company.; Don't be hatin', perpetuatin' foolish strife,; 'Cause last time I checked, Caelus rolls with Thanos, that's his lifeline!; Yeah, Thanos, the Titan, collectin' stones with glee,; Got Caelus by his side, a loyal friend, you see?; So back the heck off, keep your negativity away,; Before Thanos snaps his fingers and you vanish in a day!; Respect the pronouns, respect the space he holds,; Caelus ain't your problem, let the story unfold.; Mind your business, stay in your lane, it's the golden rule,; And remember, Caelus is protected by a very powerful tool!" Thanos rapped, taking the other 3 men by surprise.

Once the shock blew over, the older men grumbled, glaring down at Caelus before leaving. Thanos pulled Cae to his feet, rubbing his back. "You safe, okay? Thanos got you," He informed, handing Cael his glasses.

Not even attempting to get his brain unscramble, Cael just spoke in English. "Thanks, Thanos.. but how did you know to come check on me-?" He asked, looking up at the purple-haired man. He simply shrugged.

"Had a feeling. You also left your knife behind, which confused me," He replied. "I may be high, but I'm not stupid."

Cael just laughed, putting his glasses on. "Definitely not. Now to do what i came in here to do and shit."

@noxiousmelody @sevenratz

[absolutebl]

This Week in BL - I'm Late, I know

Organized, in each category, with ones I'm enjoying most at the top.

Feb 2024 Wk 2

Ongoing Series - Thai

The Sign (Sat YT) ep 12fin - we waiting 2 weeks I guess? Bah.

Pit Babe (Fri iQIYI) ep 13fin - I wasn't impressed by the last ep at all. Trash watch happened here.

My final thoughts:

Based on alittlebixth's omegaverse novel #พิษเบ๊บ’ set in the world of car racing omegaverse. Thailand brought us the world's first omegaverse BL but then failed to lean into the courage of its a/b/o convictions by not emphasizing the difference between our world & theirs, adding & subtracting characters & allegiances + a weak ending. With earnest performances, enthusiastic sex scenes, a fantastic side couple, and some delightful scenery chewing - the actors tried… poor things. It's just the story failed both them and their parent genre. Frankly? I just wanted it to be more outrageous and trashy, since I never expected it to be good. Instead, it was just… meh. 7/10

(Imma remind all the newbies that this is not unprecedented from me with hugely popular BL.)

Cooking Crush (Sun YT) ep 10 of 12 - I like it but there’s a high % of this show that doesn’t interest me. Anything to do with the side couple, or the friend group, or the cooking competition drives me into a comatose state of UGH. That means that in this episode, I paid attention to about 5 minutes worth. 

For Him (Thurs iQIYI) ep 11 of 12 - I'm ready for this to be done. I think they were trying to be this year's Big Dragon, but they just aren't good enough. I really didn’t need a third couple.

City of Stars (Fri iQIYI) ep 2 of 12 - I'm warming up to FueangKrom a bit. It’s cute. I am finding the pacing interesting. That pacing might be bad, but right now it’s simply different. 

Ongoing Series - Not Thai

Love For Love's Sake (Korea Weds iQIYI) 5-6 of 8 - I still love this show a lot, but this 2 ep installment felt a little disjointed. I’m not sure if that’s the narrative structure or the subs. The captions are shockingly bad for a KBL and I don’t have enough Korean to make up for their clear failings. 

Although I Love You and You AKA Sukiyanen Kedo Do Yaro ka (Japan Thurs Gaga) ep 5 of 10 - Oh the return of the manic pixie dream ex. This is all very high school drama for purportedly grown-up adults. But them both being jealous and then kissing was sweet.  

AntiReset (Taiwan Fri Viki/Gaga) ep 3 of 10 - They remain adorable and the sunshine robot is very sweet. But it is a little slow. 

Perfect Propose (Japan Fri Gaga) ep 3 of 6 - I prefer the episodes when we get more of them onscreen together. But this was fine. 

Happy Ending (Korea Tues YT) 3fin - The ending disappointed me (are you surprised?). What can I say, not Strongberry's best as far as I’m concerned. High school besties that many could be sweethearts. I don’t like an ending that’s left up in the air. 6/10

It's Done but...

What Did You Eat Yesterday Season 2 AKA Kinou Nani Tabeta? Season 2 (Japan Gaga) 10 eps - will binge when I have any spare time. 2024 is crazy busy for me so far.

The Servant and the Young Master - from Vietnam, it's on YouTube. I will give it a try when I have a window of time.

Began Beginning (Myanmar YouTube) - A Burmese BL? @heretherebedork vouched for it, so I will give it a watch.

It's Airing But...

[NO INTERNATIONAL] Cherry Magic (Sat YouTube) ep 3 of 12 - yeah Japan put the smack down on our boys. Sadness. You can use a VPN if you like. Read all about it here.

Ossans Love Season 2 (Japan Gaga) - 5 years later, will anything have changed? This is Japan so… probubly not. I won't be watching this. I disliked Season one and actively hated the follow ups. No thank you.

Playboyy (Thurs Gaga) 14 eps - Dear Playboyy, it's not you, it’s me… I hate you. You’re about as deep (and as palatable) as a shot glass of cum. While I'm sure you’re someone’s kink, you're my weakest link. Goodbye. I DNFed this at ep 5. Frankly I'm impressed with myself for getting that far.

7 Days Before Valentine (Weds WeTV) 12 eps - Gave me Luminous Solution vibes. It finished, is it worth it?

Dead Friend Forever (Thai Sat iQIYI) 12 eps - finished, horror, supposed to be very philosophical, I think I'll give it a go.

Time the series (Tue Gaga/YT) 10 eps - dropped it at ep 4.

Next Week Looks Like This:

Starting Up

2/16 My Strawberry Film (Japan Gaga) - not quite sure how much BL this one is, because... Japan, but we shall see.

2/17 A Secretly Love (Thai WeTV) - Khonprot, a third-year head hazer of the engineering faculty, has a secret crush on Pluem, a tsundere fourth-year head hazer. Over the years, he's seen Pluem cycle through many girlfriends. Recently, after a public breakup, however, Khonprot thinks maybe a boy has a chance. Unless this is really good I probably won't I hate the WeTV interface...

Still Coming in Feb

2/24 Unknown (Taiwan Youku) 12 eps - Older brother tough guy criminal breadwinner looks after his sister and defacto adopted little brother. Little bother falls in love with him and is sent away after a stolen kiss. But when he comes back…

Upcoming BLs for 2024 are listed here. This list is not kept updated, so please leave a comment if you know something new or RP with additions.

THIS WEEK’S BEST MOMENTS

We gotta talk about LFLS this week. Look at Korea go!

Talking about a dead fish kiss, how meta! This will end up on one of my best of the year moments. I could not have been more gobsmacked.

Also something rarely directly addressed, particularly for same-sex firsts.

And then, a claiming trope, a personal favorite of mine.

Thank you Korea!

I just love them. (Pit Babe)

(Last week)

[nctstar]

1.

“Stop that.” He whispered against the skin of your neck. “You know he wouldn’t care.”

“That’s the problem. We need to do this properly.”

“You know why we can’t do that.”

pairing: johnyong x fem!reader (no romantic johnyong ship)

other members: none

word count: 3.7k

genre: romance, angst, with a side of smut

warnings: sexual content so minors please dni!! profanity, y/n has migraines (pretty severe!), semi-public sex, oral (fem receiving), cheating (? it's complicated), sleeping with your ex, some freaky kissing

disclaimer: this is a fanfiction purely from my (filthy) imagination. I don't know the nct members and don't claim that they act like this in real life. I also do not condone any of the activity by any of the characters in this fic. 

a/n: hi guys, i'm alive :D i've had a lot of ideas recently and a steamy johnyong drama was one of them, and then my eyes feasted upon acne studios event johnny and i finally got the push i needed to go through with writing it :) writing slump over we all cheered wooooo. also, ik it's kinda ~confusing~ rn. this is a series so just trust me okayyyy. also, i love making fic playlists and here's the one for this fic. if you picked up that this is loosely based on the 5SOS song blender pls marry me rn <3 nobody get's 5SOS like I do I swear :( pls hmu if you get me

You wouldn’t have noticed him at all, if it wasn’t for the way you watched Taeyong’s deep brown eyes flicker past you, shadows of stories passing by like it was nothing. You thought nothing of it, but your head turned, your body in tune with his more than you realised. And, just like a bad case of fate, there he was.

Johnny Suh.

He walked in like he owned the place, as he always did. His cocky demeanour hung off his body perfectly, like the oversized leather jacket he wore everywhere he went. His smile made the girl waiting on him eagerly blush, something that made you both angry and a little wistful. Your gaze lingered on far too long. And, as usual, like he always did, Taeyong pretended he didn’t notice. He always pretended, even when you were so far gone, he felt like he was pulling you out of quicksand.

“What colour looks better on me, jagiya?” Switching to Korean was your safety net, something sacred between only you and him, more intimate than the restless nights you spent tangled up in bed, Johnny’s presence a mere afterthought. You turned to Taeyong’s back, his slender body on display in the full-length mirror in front. You tucked a strand of your hair behind your ear as you both locked eyes through his reflection.

“Black.”

The seriousness, properness in the air was almost palpable, like you both were being watched, tested and graded. Not a single wrong movement, or breath. It was unbearable and at the same time, so tantalizing, like something could break the surface at any moment. Moving forward, you brought a hand up and over his shoulder, letting your fingers run over his collarbone. “Yeah. Definitely black.”

Taeyong kissed your hand, and you tried to remember when he took your hand in his. “I wanna show you a few more items. In there.” He cocked his head ever so slightly to the curtained fitting rooms, so subtle, meant to remain a secret between the two of you.

Not thinking about Johnny was like trying not to let the plague take over your body. He seeped through you like the truth, feeling right in every scenario. And in this moment, as you let Taeyong run his mouth down the valley of your breasts, your skin erupting in flames underneath his lips, you shut your eyes, and there was Johnny. Your feet on his toned calves, your hands around his thick cock. But when you opened your eyes, there was Taeyong, between your legs, right here, right now.

You clamped your mouth, moans threatening to spill out. “Oh god,” you whispered through your fingers. “R-right ther-haah…” Your thighs constricted around his head as he quickened his pace, both of your hands behind you to hold you upright.

“Hey, excuse me?”

Fuck.

It’s like someone had drawn the curtains back on you both in this compromising position. You moved away first, shoving yourself back on the complimentary bench you weren’t sure how many others had done unholy things on, Taeyong shortly after, watching your face redden with every passing second.

Johnny continued. “This one’s a little small, sweetheart. I run larger than that, you know?” You could almost see him winking at her, smiling that god-awful smile that made every woman melt like putty under his gaze. As if on cue, she giggled.

Fuck. Him.

“Come here, baby.” You spoke softly, both hands unhooking your bra as you kneeled in front of Taeyong, shuffling closer so your tits pressed again his torso, clad in a compression shirt. He groaned. “Fuck.” He grabbed your face, kissing you deeply and pushing you down to the floor.

Thirty minutes later, you were in the passenger seat, the days shopping in various sized bags in the back. You were both silent, the radio playing some obscure song neither of you knew. With the windows down, the air still felt hot and heavy, pressing onto your skin. You played with the strands of hair sticking to the back of your neck, squinting as Taeyong turned a corner and the blaze of the mid-afternoon sun poured into your eyes.

“I ended up getting both.”

“Hmm?” Condensation slipped inside your palm as you played with the cold water bottle next to the gear shift.

“Both of the caps.”

“You bought caps? You have so many at home.” The answer felt involuntary, combined with the frustration of the hot weather and lack of food since brunch. He frowned, and you immediately felt guilty. “Sorry, I mean like-“

“You said you liked the black one. You were right there.”

You felt a deep shame somewhere buried inside you as you mentally flicked back to the moments in the dressing room. The plague was making you really sick now, making you notice things you didn’t need at all, and throwing out memories of things that you really did. “R-right. Sorry, hon. Didn’t mean to snap. It’s just so hot today.” You meant to chuckle, to lighten the mood, but your body could not go through with it. Instead, the both of you sat in uncomfortable silence.

The silence stretched on for agonising miles, as it usually did. Nowadays, when you weren’t having dry, stationery conversations, you were exploring each other’s bodies like it was what you were supposed to do as a couple. Not out of passion, or lust. Just because. Your eyes kept drifting closed, the will to keep them open slipping further away from your grasp. You just wanted to be in bed…alone, slipping through the mattress and into the floor, deeper, and deeper.

You finally woke with a jolt at the sound of the door close. Your makeup felt far too heavy on the skin of your face, the ache in your feet now screaming at you. “Baby, wait.” The phrase disappeared into the air unheard, but you stepped out of the car, right in the face of a camera.

“_, _!”

Shit. How did they find us?

“Are you here alone? Who drove you here? Tell us a bit about the man in your car…” You admired the man’s insistence at his job. His passion, however intrusive and idiotic, was majorly inspiring at this phrase of your life.

Shut the fuck up, you wanted to say. You kept a stern face instead, hoping your eyes would communicate that instead. “No thanks.” You side-stepped him strategically, a new throbbing in the left side of your temple starting to grow. Fuck, not again. You tried to breathe, in, out, in, out, but the rhythm caught in your throat, your vision began to grow blurry, and you stumbled uncomfortably in your sneakers that now felt like they weighed tons.

“Ma’am? Are you alright?” You heard the man’s keys before his footsteps, the sound of his camera flashing as he approached. The light was blinding, and you dropped to your knees as the flashing sounds continued, like gunfire on a field of soldiers.  

Who the fuck still used bright-ass flash?

“Who the fuck still uses flash!” It was a yell, from maybe about 10 metres away, but the ringing in your ears fogged it up like it was underwater. You tried to focus on your breathing, but your heart didn’t care about your wellbeing, apparently, speeding up at the sound of his voice. “Get away from her, right now.” The voice, still foggy, felt closer to you, and you felt an arm around your middle pulling you gently upwards. He whispered, “Okay, sweetheart, let’s get you out of here.”

Your pain spiked at the thought of the busy, lighted McDonalds as you walked away from the man with the flash camera, somehow on the floor of the car park now. “It needs to be dark, and quiet. It won’t stop unless it is.”

Johnny made a noise of sympathy. “I know, I remember.”

You only then registered the tears, wet on the heavy-set makeup on your face. You couldn’t even look him in the eyes, a weird sense of guilt throbbing just as hard as your migraine deep in your gut. He was still walking you somewhere, and you just let him, no energy to care about anything other than the pain in your temples. He soothed you gently through whispers of something inaudible, but his breath felt warm and welcoming on your neck, and, despite it all, you were grateful for his presence.

“Go lie in the back, okay?” He shoved his jacket off as he spoke. “No cologne today. You can put it over your face. Don’t worry about anything.” You nodded, the familiar routine flooding back into you like water in on a dehydrated rock.   

Time passed like the way months pass in a busy year, and the next time you took a long, deep breath, you opened your eyes to the sensation of a firm, cold, king-sized bed. The room was dimly lit, enough so you could make out the outlines of the furniture in the room, but not bright enough to read anything if it was written on the walls. There was no lingering smell in the air, only the faint scent of your own shampoo, and no sound at all except the light ringing in your ears, much less strong than before. Your muscles relaxed like you were in a hot bath after a long day – safe, relaxed, nothing on your mind. You fell back asleep in seconds.

You woke what seemed like hours later. The room was significantly darker now, no more dusk light glowing from behind the curtains. The door was slightly ajar, and you registered voices this time coming from beyond.

“Why didn’t you just call me?”

“She was having a bad one. And, why would I have needed to call you?” You put on the slippers next to your bed without thinking, wrapping the robe you forgot you put on tight around your body. “You weren’t even there with her. What were you thinking?”

“Johnny, don’t. I stepped out to get something for her.”

“You should have known she would have the episode today. There are always signs.”

“You just said it was that asshole’s fault!”

You walked in the kitchen to see Johnny turned away, Taeyong at the end of the counter. When you met Taeyong’s eyes, you watched them widen as he stepped towards you. “Oh, honey.” You held him, his hand pressing the nape of your neck towards himself. “I was so worried. I’m so sorry.”

“It’s okay,” you squeaked. As you pulled away, Taeyong pressed a kiss to your lips, pulling away to look into your eyes and stroke the sides of your face. “You look so tired, sweetie. I should have noticed.”

“Really, it’s fine, love.” You kissed him back, making awkward eye contact with Johnny towards the end. Shuffling awkwardly, you cleared your throat. “Um, we should get going.”

“No, you’re staying for dinner.” Johnny threw a towel over his shoulder in a way that was comical, almost making you laugh. You smiled, trying to ease the situation. “Johnny, really. I appreciate it, but-“

“There’s no way you both can drive all the way back to the apartment.” Your heart skipped as you heard him say the and not your. That one word gave you that illusion that time had stopped, and that the past 10 months had all been a dream, and you were still there, in the kitchen, pressed up against his body without a care.

You shook your head, willing the memories and coming back into reality all at the same time. “You can’t. You’ve just had your worst episode. No thanks to that grade A fucktard who doesn’t know how to use a camera in the 21st century.” He rolled his eyes. “Car trips will make you nauseous.”

“No! I mean,” you rubbed your head. “Me and Taeyong, we have this, um, this event…” You knew it was a weak argument, but you threw it out anyway. When you looked over at Taeyong, he was, of course, shaking his head. “I’m sure Jaehyun won’t mind. It’s the album release party.” He looked over to Johnny, who nodded politely.

“You can still go. Just drop me off at home.”

“Nonsense, _. You spend the night here.” You and Taeyong both looked at each other, you with an expression of clear distaste, and Taeyong with something a bit less than that. “I mean…didn’t you say you had a thing?”

“Yeah, I mean, she’s not a kid. She can stay by herself. Call us if you need anything. But she shouldn’t get into the car.” Taeyong hummed in agreement as Johnny walked towards the both of you, and you looked at the both of them incredulously. “Did you both just decide on plans without me?” You crossed your arms. “Unbelievable.” It came of surprisingly playful, making them both laugh, Johnny now sizing you up with his eyes like he always did. “You like the robe?”

“Y-yeah.” For a second you were too comfortable, looking right into Johnny’s eyes, wanting more than anything to be in his arms. Your body, your mind, this house…you were there, 10 months ago, back when it was all okay, it was right. Forgetting that Taeyong was right here, staring at you back, wishing you were here right now.

“You gonna be okay here, baby?” Taeyong brought your hands into his, pulling you close as Johnny walked away. You nodded, smiling up at him with passion in your heart for the first time in what felt like too long. The guilt started throbbing in your gut again, but you grabbed his face in your hands, kissing him deeply until you felt it ebbing away.

∞

“Shh. You need to be quiet. My niece is here.”

That was the sentence that rang like alarm bells in your brain. At first, your entire body tensed up, the unfamiliar surroundings making you confused. Memories of the day came back, and you relaxed a little, finally registering what was going on.

The sounds of a woman giggling and going shh in an exaggerated tone made you feel like someone threw all your emotions in a blender. Annoyance, confusion, anger, sadness, lust…it all swirled and mixed intentionally, blades cutting through each one at lightning speed.

Both of their bodies thumped upstairs, and it wasn’t long before she started moaning like a pornstar.

Your. Fucking. Niece. Is. Here??

You made a face of disgust at nobody as the noises continued. “If I was your niece, I would be reporting you to CPS.” You slammed back into bed, momentarily delighted that the painful throbs in your brain were gone far enough that you could throw yourself around easily. You pushed a pillow on top of your face, as if you were in a teen movie and you needed to throw a tantrum. At the third Oh, harder! girlish squeal that you heard, you were ready to go through with it.

Instead, your brain decided to flash through memories of yourself and Johnny. Back when you weren’t his fake niece, and instead the giggly drunk girl he would take upstairs to fuck the living daylights out of.

Fuck. Why am I thinking about this? You were stretching your arm uncomfortably out, too lazy to get out of bed to reach your phone, thinking about calling Taeyong to distract yourself or to come get you when the noises upstairs stopped.

“FUCK YOU!”

It was so loud it made you jump.

You heard the deep tenor of Johnny’s voice in the background, before her higher-pitched one cut through the air. “Fucking asshole!” You heard thumps of footsteps, much quicker and lighter than before, and sounds of zippers being pulled. When they stopped close to the door of your room, which was still slightly ajar, you kept thinking shit. There was no way you could pretend you were asleep this entire time anymore.

“Give me your fucking car keys. I’m leaving right now.”

“Look, I-“

“Do you even remember my name?” The small but significant silence that followed was so intentionally on point that you couldn’t help but snigger, covering your mouth with your palm to remain quiet.

When you heard the door slam, you lay properly in bed, still going with the plan that you were gonna pretend you somehow slept through that. As if like a badly-scripted TV show, the door to your room opened as you tried to tuck yourself in, not quick enough to avoid Johnny at the door.

“Oh, hey.” For some reason, everything was immediately extremely funny, and it was like trying to guide an elephant going estray, the way everything in you was trying not to burst out laughing.

“Sorry about the noise.”

“It’s fine.” You tucked a strand of hair behind your ear. “I was awake anyway. Migraine’s pretty much gone.” You gestured awkwardly to your head, reaching out to grab your phone now properly. “I think Taeyong’s ready to pick me up now.” You turned the screen on as you said this, as if you just read texts from him. In reality, your phone was dry and empty, the lockscreen of you and Taeyong making a heart at the beach last summer glaring back at you in the dark. “I’ll be out of your hair soon.”

“No trouble.” He walked into the room, door now fully open. You crossed your legs on the bed, not knowing what to say or how to act, not knowing why he was now silently looking over the dresser in the room to your left.

“I said your name.”

Your blood froze, body reacting before your brain. You sputtered, “I, uh, what?”

He opened his mouth to reply, now fully turned towards you, but you brought a finger to your own lips. “That’s okay. Don’t need to explain, Johnny. I, just, why would you say that?” The last part refused to remain a thought in your heard, instead spilling out of you in words drenched in emotional blender soup.

“You just said you don’t need an explanation.”

“Ugh, Johnny,” you rubbed your temples, not because of an incoming migraine, but in a more dramatic, single mom in a bad murder mystery novel kind of way. “You always do this. You know what I mean.”

When you looked up, his eyes were softer than you thought. He looked…vulnerable, and lost. He had the other end of that string that you held onto as you slipped deeper into the quicksand, standing there, looking like only one who could pull you out.

He walked closer to you, and your body did not move away. He got close enough to sit on the edge of the bed, slouched over, and you dragged your legs over to sit next to him. “I’m your fucking niece?” You laughed easily now, and you watched his body vibrate as his body copied yours. “It was the only thing I could think of in the moment, okay?” His smile made your body feel electric, like you could conquer anything in that moment. And for a moment, you surrendered to the notion that it was exactly 10 months ago, on the precipice of the moment it all fell apart.

Why did you break up with me? You wanted so desperately to say, your voice coarse from screaming it in your mind for hours every day. But instead, you answered his measured attempts to keep a light conversation.

“You had any migraine this bad in a while?”

“No.” you shook your head, now tucking your legs in underneath you to lean on the bedframe, his body turning to face you as you did. “Been seeing a new physician. She’s much better.”

“Oh yeah? Finally dumped Dr Misogyny?”

“Uh huh. I figured I didn’t need someone who kept trying to convince me I was overreacting and being hysterical.”

“Mmm. Good on you, sweetheart.” Even though you knew how easily Johnny threw endearing terms around, your stomach still flipped violently at his reply, and you gulped.

“Taeyong’s been good too. He’s sleeping a lot better. Not working too late anymore.”

“That’s good.” Johnny readjusted on the bed, inching closer towards you. “He works way too hard. As do you.”

“Johnny…” Your voice ever so slightly caught in your throat, and it was noticeable enough for him to catch. You mentally cursed, but that’s when something in you went fuck it, and you went in straight for the kill.

“Why did you leave me…us?” Your voice shook, no matter how strongly you willed it not too, and the last word came out like a forbidden whisper.

He looked directly into your eyes, as if he was relieved that you asked him, like he’d been holding onto the response for the past 10 months. “I…I regretted it every single day.”

“Then you should have fucking told me.” You sucked in a breath. “You could have said anything to me, and I would have come running. I trust you, I…I love you.” Every breath felt painful as you let your confession hang in the air dangerously. “You know that.”

“I know, _.”

Before you could even let yourself process the moment, you leant over and kissed him. The guilt throbbing in your gut exploded like a small fire as it catches on to grow endlessly large and overwhelming. He grabbed your body, lifting you to rest on his lap, your kisses growing feverish with heat.

When you pulled away, you opened your eyes to come to your senses. “N-no, we shouldn’t.”

“Stop that.” He whispered against the skin of your neck. “You know he wouldn’t care.”

“That’s the problem. We need to do this properly.”

“You know why we can’t do that.”

“I don’t, Johnny. I don’t know why we can’t.” You began to argue with him, but he shut you up by hoisting your upper body further and further up, biting and sucking the skin down the base of your neck, collarbone, and between your breasts. Your arms latched onto his muscular shoulders as you rocked naturally on his lap. “God, fuck you, Johnny.” He chuckled against your clothed torso.

“Give me a second.” He pushed you gently backwards, rising up on his knees to let you watch as he pulled his shirt off with one hand. He fell on top of you in one fell swoop, kissing you between the cages of his muscular arms. His body rolled onto yours, making you gasp. “Johnny, I-“

“I know. Just let me. Okay?”

[dojae-huh]

Unconditional: lyrics

Well, for once we have lyrics fully in English, so we can be sure there are no mistakes in translation from Korean.

Preface.

I believe, at least for now, at the start of Jaehyun's soloist career and his first steps into songwriting, we can be sure he writes about his own experiences, or he agrees with lyrics created by others that resonate with him personally. a) He said so himself in an interview (how he used the feelings he felt and the pictures he took as inspiration for writing), b) in the past he referenced/played on repeat songs that matched the current situation of his relationship with Doyoung, c) so far, all the themes from his solo songs and songs from "J" matched what we can observe about Jaehyun and his onlook on Doyoung.

In other words, even if Jaehyun sings about a girl from California (an imagined scenario, never happened) it will be about "it was destiny" and "lets stay together till death do us part" and not about picking up chicks for a one night stand or having girlfriends around the world.

Met this girl from California, something 'bout her aura Got me good at sticking around Send a shout out to her mama, raising up a queen

Tbh, I think it's Taneasha's part. Jaehyun is close with mama Kim though.

'Cause damn, she is the woman, no doubt Who got fire taste? Dominate When she on that paper chase

"Paper chase" can't be Jae's lyrics as well. Too slangy. Yet, we know a bunny who is constantly working and earning money (with the nickname "young money"), who dominates all sides of showbusiness.

Skip the drama, double dutch She's an eight rounded up

And we continue with slang. "Double dutch" is 1) "talk or writing that is nonsense or that you cannot understand" and 2) "a game played by jumpimg up and down through two ropes that are being turned by two people holding the ends"

"rounded up 8"="10" (like in math 5.8->6)

Considering the lyrics about "A-list" later, the love interest is not perfectly beautiful by the usual standarts, but sure is in Jaehyun's eyes.

I've been falling since the day I made her mine Oh, we locked all the way, yeah

We can see that. Lemonade, she's golden She deservеs to be loved with no limit out loud

This looks to be written by Jae. (as well as the previous part)

I just, I just bought my baby Prada Got another for hеr, straight from the store Fly her 'round the world so she can hang by the shore That's my baby, that’s my sugar I don't need no honey on the side

By Hyun this time? Hyun and Jae? Heh. Another style here.

That's unconditiona-nal For her, I'd break the law, just take me straight to the court Buy a billion roses and I'd still get her more

This sound like Jae again. Jae is ready to go to the end of the world for his love interest.

She's fine, she's mine, I gotta praise the Lord This thing, we got's That's unconditiona-nal She's fine, she's mine, I gotta praise the Lord This thing, we got's That's unconditiona-nal

Reminds me

"You wanna be mine, baby (Roses) I said you wanna be mine, baby (Roses)"

Baby, I'm just gonna say it, not even an A-list Can turn my head from where it is now I'm rocking through the stages 'til we're old and gray Ain't afraid to say it loud (Loud)

Also sounds like Jae. An image of sailing from one stage to another till old age. Not clear here if it is a stage of life or music stages.

That's unconditiona-nal

Jaehyun's love is complete and not limited in any way. Pure love, given without asking for anything in return.

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

OK. Lets list the possible references: lemonade (lemonade mate), met in California (Lost in California), meerkats (in the MV), idol life (music stages), paper chase (pursue of money and career), golden (Golden light?), gifting Prada (the bag Do got and paraded around), hang by the shore (Doyoung likes the sea), rounded up 8/(not) A-list (Do doesn't think he is idol handsome), Jaehyun not being afraid to love confess/flirt/compliment.

The theme: found the one, continues to fall in love deeper, ready to break the law and spend the rest of his life together, wants to talk about his love openly. The same theme as in most other songs by Jae.

[kpopbestie96]

Chapter Four

"This was a fun night guys, thank you so much," you hugged Dani, George and lastly Gabby.

"We should get dinner sometime and you can meet our other friend when she's not sick," Gabby mentioned.

"Sounds good to me!"

"Can you do next week?" George eagerly asked. They fell in love with you as everyone in the group did.

"Yeah, let's do next Friday!"

"Okay!" You waved goodbye as you ran to your car and threw you tired body into the seat. You didn't have much time to process the whole night because there was only a few mintues left before the gate closes.

You quickly turned your car on, backed out and drove off just in time to see the worker by the gate ready to close it.

You couldn't stop smiling as you drove home, listening to Stray Kids, missing the concert already. How am I suppose to live after talking to Chan?? Or seeing Stray Kids live?? Oh well, I'm sure he'll forget all about this and me.

...

A month has gone by and Chan still hasn't found you. He's watched Tiktoks, Instagram reels, videos on YouTube and searched on Twitter to see if anyone knows who you are but it's been extremely difficult to find you.

You on the other hand have gone back to a normal life. Although, sometimes you'll day dream about talking to Chan, laughing with him just to make the day go by faster at work.

Chan was sitting at his desk in his room, working on a song when he sat back and picked up the end of the light stick you dropped and started to move it in-between his fingers. "Why can't I find you..." he softly said to himself.

"Whatcha doing?" Innie asked, barging into his room, starling him.

He quickly sat forward in his seat as he set the small object down, feeling his heart beating against his chest. "Oh, hey," he said in English before switching to Korean. "Just working on some music."

"Have you not found her?" he asked sitting on the bed.

"No...and I don't think I will, sadly."

"Oh! I have an idea!!" IN sat up on Chan's bed, his eyes wide from his thoughts.

"What's up??" Chan eyed him curiously.

"You could go live and ask Stays if they could help find the person it belongs to??"

"That's a good idea IN!" He said a bit sarcastically as he chuckled. "But your forgetting about our fans??"

"Really? You saw some post from them, a lot of them thought it was so cute and how you guys would make a cute couple."

Chan sat in his seat for a few moments because he was thinking it over. He's made sure to keep a clean reputation for not only him but for his kids. He didn't want to go live asking if anyone knew you because he didn't want to start drama with Stays.

"Our real fans will understand, Hyung. You've been doing this for so many years. You deserve to be happy, deserve to do your own thing," I.N. said softly with kind eyes.

Chan gave up a small smile before agreeing. "Maybe you're right..."

"So you'll do it?? We'll all be here to back you up!"

"I guess I'm doing it..."

Jeongin jumped out of his spot and ran to his room so he could give him some privacy. Chan couldn't help but laugh, shaking his head at his youngest child. Well let's do this, he set up the camera on his desk he was working at, feeling nervous. I can do it.

"Here goes nothing," he clicked the button and he went live to see the views quickly racking up and comments flooding in. He began shy when he saw everyone, thinking it was a bad idea but decided to ease into it.

"Hi everyone," he said in English waving to the camera. He began to speak to Stays, talking to them in Korean and English about what they're doing and asking how they are.

He saw comments about how he kept interacting with one fan and how he seemed happy when talking to that person at sendoff. This is the perfect moment to do this, he thought.

"Yeah, she was super nice and had a fun time with her but with all of Stays! But since you brought her up..." his hands were trembling and his right leg was bouncing up and down nervously underneath the desk. "You all know that I'm honest with all you. I feel like I can tell you guys anything, right?" He brought his hands up to his face, resting his thumbs on his lower lips, impatiently waiting to see what they say.

He kept seeing comments like, 'tell us', 'what's going' or 'you can tell us anything.' "Well," he sat up in his seat, resting his hands on the table. "I really connected with her and I've been looking for her since that night. She left before I got her number or even her social media. I only know her name and I'm looking for her. I have the end of her light stick."

He repeated everything in English as he held up the small object, praying someone knew who she is and can help him.

Sarah was watching the live, wanting to throw her phone against a wall. That should have been me!!! Wait, hmm I wonder. She looked at herself in the mirror and noticed how her features need to be worked on but for the most part she looks like you if she dyes her hair.

"Stays," his voice came out shaky from how anxious he was, he didn't want to disappoint the Stays he loves so much. He cleared his throat "I hope you're okay with me looking for her and that you'll help me. I wanted to ask you first." He saw so many comments saying 'of course we will!' or 'you can count on us!' "If anyone knows anything please reach out to me. If this is your light stick end, please message me. My DM's on Instagram will be open."

He was really hoping you were watching or someone knew you that way you could reach out to him. But you were at home fast asleep when your ringing phone woke you up.

"Hello?" You tiredly answered since it was 9 in the morning and you like to sleep in on the weekends.

"Did you see Chan's Instagram live?!?" Gabby yelled in your ear, feeling as if she had a megaphone towards the speaker, causing you to hold your phone away.

"No...I just woke," you stretched then rubbed your right eye.

"He's looking for the girl who dropped the end of their light stick! HE'S LOOKING FOR YOU!"

"Oh that's cool..." You turned on your left side facing the wall, your eyes closing to go back to sleep. "WAIT, WHAT!?" You immediately sat up after you realized what she said.

"YEAH!!!"

"Are you sure it's me???""

"Look on Twitter, it's everywhere! He has the piece that fell off, it yours!" You looked over at your light stick remembering it missing the end piece.

"He's looking....for me??" You said out loud, shocked because you assumed he moved on and went about his life while you continued to fan girl over the event.

"Yes! He said his DM's are open! You need to message him!"

"Oh...."

"I'm coming over!" Gabby hung up as you quickly went onto Twitter to see everything she was talking about. There was even a hashtag trending: #findchan'scinderella

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< Back to Chapter One

[10byten]

❄️ Jeong Christmas Eve ❄️

Summary : your boyfriend is trying to convince you to come with him at this christmas family diner. He bought you a special gift for this occasion.

Genre/Warnings : romance, established relationship, Jaehyun is like totally crazy about you, smut (masturbation), some praising words for his "good girl".

Words : 2.5k

Dating someone from a completely different culture can be tricky, especially when it comes to family. And with Koreans? Yeah, that can be a whole other level of drama. You’ve been with your boyfriend, Jaehyun, for years now, and his family? Let’s just say they’ve made it very clear they’re not your biggest fans. Family gatherings are always tense—like they lowkey wish you’d just disappear. But Jaehyun? He doesn’t care. He’s head-over-heels obsessed with you and insists on bringing you along every time.

This Christmas is no different. He’s dead set on you joining him for the family dinner.

“Jae, babe, come on. It’s just gonna be awkward for everyone. Seriously, just go hang with your family. We’ll be back to our normal chaos in two days anyway,” you say, trying to reason with him.

“But it won’t feel the same if you’re not there.” He’s already pouting, leaning against the table. “You know I’m not backing down on this. You’re the most important part of my life now. I don’t care if they like it or not—they’ll just have to deal.”

You sigh, giving him a side-eye with a smirk. “Why is this even a thing? We’re doing our Christmas tonight, and you’ve already spoiled me with presents. I don’t need to be there.”

Jaehyun smirks back and leans closer, flicking a strand of your hair with his fingers. His voice drops to that low, teasing tone that always gets you.

“Oh, but the gift I’m giving you tonight?” he says, his lips brushing your ear. “It’s gonna change this whole trip.”

You know exactly what that tone means. When Jaehyun gets like this, it’s always about one thing. Your curiosity is piqued, though—what could he possibly have planned? Especially something spicy while surrounded by his disapproving family. Knowing Jae, it could be anything.

When it comes to physical stuff, you and Jae are absolutely unhinged. PDA? That’s your middle name. Whether you’re out at dinner, walking the streets, or literally anywhere, Jae has no problem pulling you into his lap or pinning you against a wall for a long, heated kiss. And behind closed doors? Well, let’s just say “closed doors” don’t even matter half the time.

You’ve hooked up in public more times than you can count—movie theaters, fancy restaurant bathrooms, his car, even at a pool once. There was that one time in the bathroom of an apartment you were supposed to be touring while the real estate agent was just outside. You and Jae have this fire that never dies down. Why hold back when the only thing stopping you is, well, nothing?

The way he looks at you, the way he wants you all the time—it’s addictive. He loves making it obvious you’re his, and you love it just as much. Every touch, every kiss, every heated moment is just... perfect. Watching you lose yourself to him? That’s his favorite thing in the world.

You raise an eyebrow at him, still unsure what he’s scheming. “So, is this gift for me... or for you?”

He grins. “Both. Trust me, you’ll love it. And I’ll love seeing you use it.”

You narrow your eyes, pretending to be suspicious, but you’re already intrigued. “Okay, but you don’t seriously expect us to fuck in your parents’ house? They barely tolerate me as it is.”

Jae laughs, standing up and walking away from the table. Your glass of wine is still in your hand as you watch him grab something from his bag. He comes back with a neatly wrapped gift in shiny red paper.

“It’s not exactly that,” he says, handing it to you with that mischievous grin you know all too well.

When you open it, you discover a small vibrator with a connected remote control. Jae knows perfectly well that you're a clitoral girl and didn't hesitate for a moment when he saw this while browsing on a specialized site. He's been talking about buying you gods so you can send him videos of you having fun when he's away on business.

“My princess should never be left wanting,” Jaehyun says, his voice low and teasing. “The fact that you use these instead of your fingers when I’m not around? It’s like I’m still taking care of you, even from a distance. It’s my way of... participating.”

You bite your lip, already smiling. “You’re actually amazing, you know that?” you reply, leaning in to kiss him softly. “Thank you.” But as the words leave your mouth, you pull back, raising an eyebrow. “Okay, but what does any of this have to do with your family? Jae, don’t tell me you’re expecting me to use this there.”

Jaehyun doesn’t answer immediately. Instead, he leans in again, his lips capturing yours in a kiss that’s anything but gentle. It’s hot, urgent, and laced with so much desire that you barely notice when he tugs on your bottom lip with his teeth before pulling away.

“Of course not, my love,” he says, his grin anything but innocent. “I don’t want you to use it. I want you to wear it during dinner. I’ll have the remote. You’ll stay focused, keeping your cool, trying not to let anything slip... and I’ll make sure you’re so into it, you won’t even realize the time passing. Trust me—it’ll be the best Christmas dinner of your life. Literally.”

You stare at him, absolutely dumbfounded. Like, you know Jae is different. He’s the most exciting person you’ve ever been with—not just because of how insanely good-looking he is (because, duh, he’s Jaehyun), but because of the way his mind works. He’s always pushing your boundaries, pulling you deeper into this wild, exhilarating world that the two of you have created together. And honestly? You’d do anything for him. Anything.

But this? With his family?

Your mind races. Is this just another level of his obsession with you? Like, is his desire for you so overwhelming that he’s willing to risk crossing a line with his own parents? Or is this some kind of long-buried fantasy he’s been dying to play out? You can’t help but wonder what’s really driving him.

“I’m so crazy about you,” he says finally, his voice dropping an octave, eyes locked on yours. “I want them to know that when it comes to you, I have no limits. Not even theirs. I'd fuck you on the table in the middle of my mother's and aunt's dishes if it would make them understand that you're the woman of my life and I don't give a damn about their opinions."

That pretty much answers the question swirling in your head. You stare at him, like really stare, amazed at how the two of you never seem to run out of this insane, all-consuming hunger for each other. It’s intense. Every. Single. Time.

“Okay,” you say, your voice soft but firm. “Do whatever you want with me. You know I’d do anything for you.”

His eyes light up instantly, and the smirk that spreads across his face? Yeah, that’s pure smugness. He looks so damn proud of himself.

“Knew I’d get you to say yes,” he says, leaning in a little closer. His voice drops, lower now, smoother. “I knew my sweet girl wouldn’t ever say no to me. You’re not the type to refuse your daddy anything... or mess up my plans, are you?”

He slowly slides his fingers down your throat and squeezes gently, pulling on them forcing you to tilt your head. He positions himself just above your face and his gaze darkens.

"I know you're already getting wet for me, I know you're already desperate for me to fuck your needy lil pussy. I know hearing me tell you how much I want you and love you makes you completely horny. Open your mouth my love and get your due.

You answer with a simple look filled with tears of suffocation, your eyes crying out with love and longing. At this moment, you want nothing more in the world than for him to destroy you as only he knows how. You know exactly what Jae is going to do and you can't wait. You open your mouth slowly and stick out your tongue slightly. He smiles, as if to tell you that you're the most perfect thing in the world, and spits into your mouth.

"Swallow."

You do exactly as you're told the second his grip eases on your throat.

His hand moves to the back of your neck, pulling you up into a kiss. You let out a soft moan, completely lost in him. The way you burn for this man—he’ll never fully get how crazy he makes you.

His other hand moves down your body to your bottom, which he grabs firmly. You want more and you know he does too, because you can feel the big guy in his tracksuit touching your lower abdomen. He lifts you in his arms to lay you on the floor of his living room.

"Just show me one last time how well you know how to use your fingers before you only use your new toy."

He stands up and sits on his knees in front of you, holding your legs spread around his thighs. You look like a soul that's lost to his master. You're totally under his spell. You slide your hand down your dress and lift it up. You're about to take off your tanga when he stops you. "No, put your hand into your panties. I want to see you do it like it's your first time." You blush and nod in agreement. You let your fingers slip into your panties and start to stroke your clitoris, which is already slippery with all the wetness Jae has been provoking in you for several minutes. You let out a little cry as your finger touches your pussy. Jae bit his lips and pulled down his jogging bottoms, grabbing his cock and stroking it up and down.

"Since I've been with you I've only jerked off when I'm away from you. Even when you're not sleeping with me, I prefer to wait until I'm with you to relieve my urges, because you're the only object of my desires, I can't watch porn anymore, I'm obsessed with your body, I can't stop thinking about you. But to jerk off while watching you touch yourself like two teenagers discovering each other's bodies, my God, I've never experienced such an erotic moment. Every time I think you can't make me lose my mind any more, but you're the most sexual being I've ever met, Y/n your body was created for love, to be the object of desire and devotion".

You squeeze your eyes shut and turn your head away, a desperate little moan slipping out—like you're trying to escape his words, but they’ve already wrapped around your mind and set it on fire. He strokes your thigh and carries on jerking off, watching your panties darken as they come into contact with your arousal.

You know he’s obsessed, his eyes glued to your body, tracing every curve, every shift of your panties as they follow your movements like a magnet he can’t resist.

He knows you're starting to build up power and wants to make both your pleasures last. He leans over and kisses your cleavage, then whispers, "Put a finger in yourself. I want to see you penetrate." You stop and let out a little whimper. You know Jae is trying to slow you down. He knows you like penetration, but that you cum faster through your clit. You make a pouty face, and he responds with a cheeky grin. "Do as you're told and you'll get what you want, sweetie." His words send you back into a state of bliss. You really want to please him, and you clench your vagina around your fingers every time you move. He lets out a grunt at the sight of your expression and your thighs tightening around him. He knows you're enjoying yourself, and that's what gives him the most pleasure. "My girl can take her fingers out of her pussy and go back to fingering herself the way she likes it." He keeps jerking off and takes hold of your hip, squeezing it between his fingers.

"You're so good my love, you're so beautiful I'm the luckiest man with such a precious flower as you in my hands". You look at him and a tear falls, a mixture of pleasure and sensitivity at hearing his words.

How did you end up meeting someone who's so in love with you? He's your essence. You arch your back and your chest rises quickly, and Jae knows that this means you're about to reach climax. "Go ahead, my love. Cum for me. I know you enjoy this." He quickens the pace and ejaculates almost immediately, grunting softly and moaning your name as he squirts onto your inner thighs, close to your vagina. You feel his hot semen splash over your body and drip down your thigh towards your pussy, which you're still touching. He looks at you, his eyes crinkled with tiredness and satisfaction, his forehead wet and his cheeks rosy, with a slight smile on his lips. He looks like a teenager who's just had a satisfying experience, gazing at you with eyes full of admiration and love. And then he whispers, "I love you," followed by an orgasm that takes your breath away and makes you moan louder than ever. You scream Jae's name in a last breath. And then you take your hand away from your soaked panties and put it on your chest, where you're still breathing heavily. Jae leans over you and kisses your pussy, then licks your panties. He looks at you and says, "I want to feel you on my tongue for a while." You let out a little cry when he touches his tongue to your swollen clitoris. Then he comes up and takes you in his arms. You turn to face him and kiss him. "I love you too," you say.

He smiles, "enough to wear any accessory to my family dinner".

"Yes, enough to wear any of your craziness to a dinner party with your family," you burst out laughing.

"So was it a pendant?"

"No, it was a little bit, because I know that imagining what's going to happen tomorrow was way too exciting for you, as it was for me, the first vibration would have automatically sent you to heaven, if we had to contain ourselves until then, I would have gone crazy on the doorstep," he said, laughing too.

"Also because I know my neighbour is smoking in his window and I caught him looking at you the last time you were walking around in your underwear, I want him to know that you're absolutely not available".

You straddle him and kiss him wildly.

"If that's what it was all about, you should have fucked me against the window to get the message clear".

He looks at you, a gleam of fascination in his eyes, he finds you incredible, he stands up to kiss you again, "that's an idea, yes, I'll think about it".

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Hope you enjoyed it. Was my first shot ! Let me know what u think about it and if you'd like to read a part two.

I probably try another member on next time.

[hwarintide]

November Viewing Log

Yeah, I know it’s the end of the year, but I went ahead and started this side blog, complete with a section for my monthly watchlist anyway. I wanted a space where I could jot down quick thoughts on what I’m currently watching (and loving).

Currently Watching

The Tale of Lady Ok (🇰🇷) – After finishing the incredible Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born, I had this huge urge to watch another sageuk. I was so happy to find something new that’s so well-made. Even after just two episodes, the plot had me hooked — stories about the struggles of the lower class in historical settings always grab my attention, and this one doesn’t hold back. By the end of episode two, I found myself thinking about how the main character, ironically, might’ve been “freer” when she was enslaved. Once her status changed to something noble, she became bound by duties to others.

When the Phone Rings (🇰🇷) – Everyone’s obsessed with this show, and yep, count me in. It’s such a breath of fresh air at the end of a not-so-great k-drama year — a story about adults (with not-so-adult decisions haha), wrapped in a darker, sensual tone. The characters are flawed, complicated, and just so interesting to watch.

Fangs of Fortune (🇨🇳) – Total newbie to c-dramas here. I’ve only seen a couple of modern ones, and this is my first wuxia. But wow, I’m obsessed already. The plot is promising, the action scenes are amazing, and the sets and costumes? Chef’s kiss. Even though I’m usually neutral about fantasy, this show is winning me over.

Revenge of Others (🇰🇷) – Honestly, I started watching this solely because Shin Ye Eun is in the lead role. Normally, I avoid school dramas, but the thriller angle pulled me in. Plus, Shin Ye Eun is just (always) wonderful, so I’m sticking with it.

Watched

Juvenile Justice (🇰🇷) – I started this one back in 2023 but put it on hold for a while. The overall vibe was good, but I needed the right mood for such heavy themes like juvenile crime and cruelty. I came back to it this year and finished it — and I don’t regret it. It’s such a well-made show that dives deep into the law and intertwines the cases with the lead’s own tragic backstory. The acting was memorable, and I’d love to see a second season.

Jeongnyeon: The Star is Born (🇰🇷) – Probably my favorite drama of the year. I cried so much — literally had tissues ready for every episode. It had everything I love: a historical context about women’s theater (a topic I didn’t know much about before), my favorite Kim Tae Ri in the lead, the equally amazing Shin Ye Eun and Ra Mi Ran, an almost entirely female cast, and a story that’s deeply emotional. The theater performances were so captivating I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen. Honestly, I’m shocked it didn’t get more love from international fans, though it was well-received in Korea.

Love in the Big City (🇰🇷) – The book this is based on was one of the first I read in Korean. I remember it as a beautifully written, honest, and realistic story, so of course, I had to watch the adaptation. And it didn’t disappoint.

The Trunk (🇰🇷) – Honestly, I found this pretty boring. It felt like the creators were trying to hint at some deeper meaning behind a simple story, but it didn’t land. It could’ve been a decent movie, but as a series, it felt empty and dragged out. That said, the house design was memorable, and the OST was nice.

Mr. Plankton (🇰🇷) – At one point while watching it, I was borderline obsessed, but looking back with a cooler head, I think it was just Woo Do Hwan and Oh Jung Se pulling me in. I love their acting styles and delivery. The plot, though? All over the place. In theory, it could’ve been a cool modern take on some classic Korean folktale about a morally gray lower-class antihero kidnapping a poor girl from a noble family. But it feels like Netflix tried to cram every melodramatic trope into one series to appeal to everyone — and, honestly, “for everyone” often ends up being “for no one.” Still, I don’t regret watching it.

What Comes after Love (🇰🇷🇯🇵) – I’m also studying Japanese, so I was intrigued by the setting involving both Japan and Korea, with characters speaking both languages. It’s a classic love story about unspoken feelings and how emotions change over time. The ending felt quite logical.

Beyond Goodbye (🇯🇵) – I watched this right after What Comes after Love because of Sakaguchi Kentaro. It might be your typical Japanese drama about reincarnation and fated connections, but it was beautifully shot and well-acted, so I’m happy with it.

Queen of Tears (🇰🇷) – I started this as it aired but dropped it, and honestly, I probably should’ve left it there. There was no chemistry between the leads (even though I like their acting individually), and the makjang elements couldn’t even justify the plot holes. Yet another case of trying to throw in every possible trope and failing to tie it all together.

The Frog (🇰🇷) – Should’ve dropped this after episode two. But I stuck with it for you, my dear Go Min Si.

Gangnam B-Side (🇰🇷) – It felt like a spin-off of The Worst of Evil set in modern-day Gangnam — and I’m not even complaining. The Worst of Evil was my highlight last year, and while Gangnam B-Side isn’t as cohesive, it’s worth it for those standout scenes with Ji Chang Wook and Bibi.

[weareapackofstrays]

A New Kind of Love: Winter Break Bonus Chapter

Genre: Non-Idol college au, slight enemies to lovers (more like they annoy e/o at the start), friends with benefits, smut, angst, romance, drama

Pairing: Minho x F!Reader

Warnings: Mention of divorce

Word Count: 1,567

A New Kind of Love: Winter Break Bonus Chapter Prev | Next

Going home always gives you anxiety so you were honestly relieved when Yuqi asked if she could forgo winter break back home in China and tag along with you instead. Your mom and dad divorced when you were in high school and while you had no issue with their new partners, you still felt like you were adjusting to this new normal. You weren’t sure if you would ever shake off the feeling of walking on eggshells around your family.

After New Year's Eve dinner, you and Yuqi decide to go for a walk around the neighborhood to digest your food. The sun has mostly disappeared now and the air feels humid and warm,  like a summer night. You were starting to miss the cold weather at school. Yuqi notices you're quiet and nudges you for attention.

“Everything okay, babe?” You kick a pine cone and shrug. “You were extra quiet at dinner. Is it your parents?”

“No, thankfully. They seem to be getting along really well actually.” Yuqi hums in agreement. “I’m not sure what’s going on with me honestly.” The streetlights illuminate, capturing your attention briefly. “Maybe I’m just feeling anxious about the start of Spring semester.” It wasn’t a lie, but it wasn’t the whole truth. Yuqi couldn’t help but wonder if this mood of yours was related to Minho. She decides to finally ask.

“I’ve been meaning to ask you...” Yuqi fidgets with the zipper of her sweater. “Did something happen that night at Max’s party?” You are surprised it took Yuqi this long to ask, but your friend knows better than to force anything out of you. Taking a beat too long to ponder your answer, you’re interrupted by Yuqi’s phone ringing. She grabs it from her back pocket and smiles. 

“Sorry, it’s Jisung. I think he wants to Facetime.”

“Yeah, girl, answer it.” You are happy for the distraction.

Yuqi looks at you before answering her boyfriend’s call. Her expression serious. “We’ll continue this chat after?” You give her an ok. Yuqi quickly brushes her hair with her fingers and dips under a nearby streetlamp for better lighting.

"Hey, my baby! Happy New Year!" Jisung shouts excitedly. 

“Happy New Year, Jiji! How’s the future?” 

“Perfectly adequate.” Despite their distance, you could feel the love radiating between the two of them. Yuqi and Jisung converse for a little while in Korean before switching back to English. 

“What time is it in Seoul?” Yuqi asks. 

“A little after 9 in the morning.”

“So early! Oh, Y/n, is with me by the way!" She turns to you. "Say hi!" You lean into frame and give a quick wave and hello.

"Hey, neighbor!" You return the genuinely happy smile Jisung sends your way. He looks off camera for a moment, mumbling something you can't understand before he pulls a familiar grumpy face onto the screen with him. "Minho hyung is here with me too!" Yuqi gives you a quick glance before saying hello to Minho. He awkwardly waves and greets her, while hesitating to meet your eyes. You notice his ears are turning red and your own cheeks begin to heat at the sight of him. Yuqi gently nudges you to say something. 

"Hey, Minho," you blurt out.

"Hi," is all he can muster. You hadn’t spoken with Minho since the party and everyone left for winter break shortly after. He did send you a text thanks to Jisung giving him your number, but you couldn’t bring yourself to engage. He chalked it up to being in different countries as the excuse for your lack of answer.

Jisung looks at Minho oddly and Yuqi gives you a similar expression. An awkward silence washes over the call and Jisung clears his throat to break it up.

“Okayyy, well we are about to head into a restaurant to meet up with some friends for breakfast. I just wanted to give my baby a quick shout." Yuqi giggles and blows him a kiss. Jisung pretends to catch it through the phone, making you and Minho audibly groan. The two of you walk out of frame and away from your embarrassing friends. Yuqi finally hangs up and runs after you, looping her arm in yours.

Jisung places his phone in his bag and turns to Minho. "Hyung, what was that about?”

“What?” Minho feigns ignorance.

“You and Y/n. You’re acting like 5 year olds on the playground. Just man up and tell her you like her.”

Minho feels himself growing agitated at the young one’s nosiness. “Who said I like her?” He protests. 

Jisung groans and gives up. “Whatever.” The boys walk into the restaurant and spot their friends waiting at a table. Jisung gives them a dramatic greeting while Minho follows behind with his head down. If Jisung really knew how bad Minho had it for you, he’d probably get the rest of his roommates involved and he couldn’t have that. As much as he wanted to get to know you better, you’d never really given him any indication that you were interested in him, other than physically. He was at least 98% certain he annoyed you more than anything else. Though he wasn’t sure what he did to make you feel that way. It was like his entire existence bothered you. Minho wasn’t even sure you were the relationship type anyways. Were you?

-

The plane ride feels longer than usual and you still haven’t been able to quell your anxiousness since winter break began. After Yuqi nods off, you try listening to music, but when that doesn’t work, you grab one of the magazines the airline provided. You flip through it aimlessly before realizing it’s an AARP magazine. Shutting it closed, you turn your attention to the window to admire the clouds instead. They’ve grown thicker with the mix of impending snow, but you can finally make out the familiar sights of campus below you. You’re about to check your phone for the 100th time when the intercom clicks on.

“Folks, this is your Captain speaking. The time is 9:15 AM and we’re about 20 minutes from landing. The temperature is a chilly 19 degrees and there is snow in the forecast. Please return to your seats and buckle up. We will be arriving shortly. Stay warm and thanks for flying with us. Go Lions!”

Yuqi stirs awake. “We’re home?” She blinks as she familiarizes herself with her surroundings again.

“About to be.” 

She claps her hands excitedly while yawning. “I can’t wait to see Jiji!”

“Is he already back from Korea?” You weren’t sure why you were surprised.

Yuqi pulls out her phone to take a look at it. “Not yet. Jisung said he’d be landing a little later this afternoon, but we’re going to get dinner once he’s back.” You notice she’s set her background image as a photo of Jisung making a duck face. 

“Sounds fun.” Your stomach fills with butterflies suddenly. Does that mean Minho will be home soon too? 

The two of you hail a taxi to share once you land. Yuqi chats with the cab driver because she can make friends with a wall so you pull out your phone to text Momo that you’re back on campus. Momo quickly texts back with “👅💦” and you roll your eyes, laughing. You put your phone away as you notice snow flurries start to come down.

When the taxi arrives at Yuqi’s apartment, you step out to help her grab her bags. “Thanks again for coming with me.” You pull her into a hug.

“Anytime, my angel. I’ll call you later, okay?” She squeezes you back and kisses your cheek. 

“Have fun with Jisung tonight. Oh, and tell him I said hello.” She nods and you give her a final wave before climbing back into the taxi to go home.

Finally inside your apartment, you drop your bags on the ground and fall face first into your bed. You inhale the familiar scent of lavender. Your bed tries to tempt you into taking a nap, but you feel a little gross from a day of traveling. After throwing your clothes in the hamper, you walk into your bathroom and turn on the shower head. You stick your hand under the falling water and wait for it to warm up, shivering a little from the exposure. Just as you’re about to step into the shower, you're interrupted by a knock at the door. For a moment you wonder if you misheard and wait for another. 

Knock, knock! 

You hear it clearly this time. Who the heck could be knocking on your door right now? Can’t be Yuqi, right? You take a quick glance at your phone in case you missed a call, but don’t see any. Not even a text. 

Knock, knock!

Finally letting curiosity get the better of you, you walk into your room to grab your robe and wrap it tightly around your middle. The tile of your apartment is cold on your bare feet as you scamper across and make way to the entrance of your apartment. Cautiously, you open your front door and feel your jaw drop when you see the source of the knocking. A beautifully bare faced Minho stands before you. His eyes sweep over your barely clothed form while you try to find words. He takes a step forward and you can hear your heartbeat thump loudly in your ears.          

“Hello, princess.”

MASTERLIST

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Tag List: @linocz @queenmea604 @felixs-voice-makes-me-wanna

xx

[welcometothejianghu]

Welcome to another round of W2 Tells You What You Should See, where W2 (me) tries to sell you (you) on something you should be watching. Today's choice: 하이에나/Hyena.

Okay, I'm assuming I just convinced a lot of you by that poster alone. But just in case, here's a trailer along the same lines!

Hyena is a 2020 Korean drama about two lawyers who get into a relationship under false pretenses, end the relationship, and then still have to deal with one another in their professional lives, while also uncovering massive corruption in the halls of jurisprudence.

This is absolutely one of those shows where, if this is the kind of thing you like, this is a strong example of that kind of thing. You know the beats it's going to hit and the turns it's going to twist, so you're just here to watch the rest unfold. It's not really a courtroom drama; while there are court scenes, they're few and far-between. Most of it is about their lives outside of court: preparing for cases, negotiating power dynamics, and working for some shady-ass rich people alongside a cast of delightful supporting characters.

It's no great work of art, but it's a lot of fun, and it's surprisingly more complicated than it appears at first blush. It's also not a huge commitment, as shows go -- just your standard Korean block of sixteen hour-long episodes -- so here's a shortish set of five reasons I think you should give this a trial (get it? trial?) run.

1. Just fuck that pretty boy up

This show knows that women want one thing, and one thing only: Ju Jihoon in mild to moderate distress.

I love this tall drink of water in everything I've seen him in (just wait until the day I finish my rec for Kingdom!), and this is no exception. I imagine that the entire pitch for this show was, what if we put Ju Jihoon in sharp, well-tailored suits and have him menaced by a bunch of beautiful professional women 10-25 years older than he is? And the Netflix executives, in a startling moment of common sense, greenlit the heck out of that.

His character, Yoon Heejae, is a hotshot lawyer from a family of hotshot lawyers and judges who works for a hotshot law firm. He embodies that certain kind of cocky, toxic masculinity that makes you idly fantasize about getting his tie caught in the shredder so it strangles him. Over the course of the show, you get to see him taken down a peg time and again until he learns to be submissive to the right people, instead of to the wrong ones. And he's much, much happier that way! So yeah, if you enjoy seeing a beautiful man get that smug smile metaphorically and literally slapped right off his handsome mug, Hyena has you covered.

I had to replay the champagne scene like ten times, fuck. No, I'm not going to tell you what I mean by that. Watch the show!

2. The titular Hyena

The major disappointment I had with this show is that it did not bring up the one -- one! -- thing everybody knows about hyenas, which is that a lot of people think the females have penises. Because oh boy, Jung Geumja has the biggest dick in the show by a mile.

A lot of times when people say a female character is a disaster, they mean, tee hee, she spilled her coffee and accidentally said something she shouldn't have! Bitch, Jung Geumja said that shit on purpose.

She's an attorney who's willing to adopt some hella unethical tactics for her clients. She's got her goals, but good luck getting her to reveal what they are -- and good luck to her when it comes to achieving them, considering that she's a complete nobody who went to law school much later in life than all the other high-powered attorneys in the show did. That's okay, though! What she lacks in experience, she makes up for in balls-to-the-wall fearlessness.

I love how intentionally bad her aesthetic is. They give her awkward outfits and the worst possible haircut, to say nothing of her hideous cell phone necklace/lanyard/thing. She adopts a more professional demeanor partway through, but the second you let her off the respectability leash, the track suits and big clunky sneakers are back. The couple times she goes real femme, she looks like she's in bad drag. It's ugly-delicious.

Her actor, Kim Hyesoo, is a beautiful woman who looks very good in evening gowns and low-cut blouses. This show intentionally steers her hard in the other direction. It's a kind of protective coloration, Jung Geumja's way of telling all the other predators not to fuck with her, or she will fuck right back.

She's scrappy as hell, despite not actually being a physical fighter -- in fact, she gets the shit beat out of her a couple times. You don't get a whole lot of media where the female lead gets her face kicked in good and proper, or if you do, it's painted as a tragic, vulnerable moment. Jung Geumja slaps on a bandaid and gets right back out to the club the following night.

Her superpower is basically that she has no shame. You think ambulance-chasers are bad? She takes it to the next level.

You really don't see a lot of female characters like this! Sure, you get the Boss Bitch archetype in a lot of legal dramas, but she's always composed and dignified. Jung Geumja has no dignity. She's a sloppy bitch who makes pretty much no effort to leverage her feminine wiles in her day-to-day life (even though the show makes a point that there are men who'd be receptive to it if she did!). She's a nasty top who clearly loves to horrify dignified, presentable people with her yakuza lounge aesthetic.

You could maybe accuse Jung Geumja of being a Mary Sue, but she's, like, a middle-aged woman's Mary Sue. If your teen girl fantasies are all about how you're the most beautiful girl at prom and all the boys like you and you become independently wealthy at your dream job as an interior designer, then your middle-aged fantasies have become how you can look super-hot wearing whatever the fuck you want and still get respected by your colleagues for your extreme competency in your profession and also have handsome men with good jobs beating down your door no matter how much your hair looks like you scalped Paul McCartney c. 1964.

She's absolutely one of those characters where I'd hate her if I had to deal with her myself, but because she's fictional and can't hurt me, I support all her wrongs.

3. Everybody else!

As is the case with good legal dramas, the main lawyers are not the only lawyers! Instead, Hyena has a wonderful cast of supporting characters who become part of the legal eagle team.

They’re exactly the kind of charismatic background weirdos I’ve come to expect from Korean dramas. You’ve got the whole batch: the potential love rival, the secondary romance couple, the supportive nonthreatening bestie, the workplace misfits who are both extemely competent and completely underappreciated at their jobs, and the childhood-friend-turned-cop I couldn't find good promo pictures of for reasons prrrrrobably related to the actor's DUI arrest.

No matter how enjoyable a main romance is (and it is! see point 5!), it cannot sustain a whole sixteen-hour drama on its own. You need to mix it up and give your primary pair other party members to bounce off of! Hyena pulls together a good group of characters that are wacky enough to be entertaining, but (mostly) not so wacky you have to suspend your disbelief about how they got to where they are in life.

And they’ve also all got some interesting relationships to masculinity and/or femininity, which is pretty par for the course with how the show clearly enjoys…

4. Getting gender all up in your business

While it's not an overt, in-your-face theme, the status of women in Korean society is definitely at play in this story. The realm of law, politics, and buisness as depicted here is absolutely a man's world, where few women are allowed, and only in a very limited number of roles. Of course there are always wives/girlfriends and secretaries doing all the helper grunt work, but a token handful of ladies can be allowed into actual ranks of power ... sort of. They'll always be second best to their male peers and relatives, of course, but doesn't that gender diversity look nice in the company's annual report!

As mentioned earlier, Yoon Heejae starts out as a good ol' boy from a long line of good ol' boys, dick-measuring with the rest of them and shooting straight for the top. It's only when he's blindsided by soft power that he starts to re-evaluate what he's gotten himself into. Maybe being a good son is actually a racket! Maybe these squads of tie-wearing ass-kissers aren't actually that fun to be around at all! Maybe he's actually much better-suited to playing on the girls' team.

Meanwhile, Jung Geumja's "ruffian from the wrong side of the tracks" role is such a man's role, but she's definitely a woman inhabiting it. Hell, half the stuff she gets away with, she does because everyone's just so shocked to encounter a woman doing and saying these things. So she does weaponize gender expectations - just not in the way you might expect a woman in a romance-centered drama to.

In the aforementioned support squad, the male attorneys are all gender failures in one way or another, which is why they haven't advanced in their jobs the way their colleagues have. They cannot perform hard-drinking, ethics-ignoring, 90-hour-workweek masculinity to the standards of the high-powered suits who run their law firm. It's only Jung Geumja who, given the choice to assemble her own crew, can see that they have immense value beyond the very gendered expectations of their profession.

Meanwhile, Boon Hyunah, the only female attorney on their team, is great at both representing and subverting that Exceptional Woman femininity. I was cautious at first, because she was clearly introduced in a way that made her seem like she was going to wind up being the evil popular girl/rival bitch whose entire job was to prove by contrast that Jung Geumja is Not Like The Other Girls. Not so! They actually wind up good friends and trusted colleagues. Female solidarity is so much more fun than contrived romcom catfighting!

Maybe my favorite character in the whole show, though, is the littlest gender-nonconforming angel, professional soft butch Lee Jieun: Jung Geumja's eternally beleaguered secretary, sidekick, gofer, co-conspirator, caretaker, and only friend.

She's clearly taken her haircut notes from Jung Geumja, but instead of going the track suit route, she's dedicated herself to the tweed lifestyle. And I love that nobody ever tries to give her a makeover or make her feel bad for not being femme! She makes friends with the other, much girlier secretaries, who seem to welcome her into their group with no problems. She finishes the show as frumpy as she was when she started.

I was prepped for the drama to give her a male love interest to defuse her obvious lesbian vibes, but it does not! She does not even, to my recollection, express desire about anyone. She oohs and ahhs over flowers and other gestures of romantic interest that happen to other people, but not in a particularly jealous way. She ships Yoon Heejae and Jung Geumja, and that's what matters to her.

The entire reason I found this show in the first place is that it has a "sismance" tag on MyDramaList, presumably for the relationship between Jung Geumja and Lee Jieun. Their relationship is wonderful, but it's way more sis than 'mance. They're more like two sisters with a huge age gap, where the dweeby younger sister has dedicated herself to doing anything her cool older sister wants her to do, and the cool older sister has decided that having a minion is worth putting up with having to wrangle a dweeby younger sister.

This show is also very female-gazey. Not only does it gleefully ogle Yoon Heejae's long-legged frame pretty much every chance it gets, but it makes Jung Geumja gross-hot in a way that only a lesbian could love. And that makes the fact that she has not one but two handsome men fighting over her even better! This is a world where our gorgeous male lead has a choice between a conventionally attractive, professionally dressed, charming, dignified woman in her early twenties, and a fifty-year-old human tornado with a foul mouth and a bad haircut, and he goes straight for that cougar without even blinking. He wants her to step on him so hard.

And speaking of:

5. Law, Partners

This is a romance worth being into.

Sure, they're both real hot (at least, by my bisexual lesbian standards), but we all know by now that being hot separately doesn't always guarantee being hot together. Fortunately for this show, they very much are.

What makes this pairing so interesting is that this is a relationship between equals. They start out with huge power mismatches both ways, since he's socially her superior, while she's lying to him real hard. When they're finally at a point where they're on even footing, it's so good, especially since she's clearly on a trajectory to emerge as the senior partner in this relationship. They’re such a great team, in fact, that the kissy part of their dynamic becomes secondary by the end. Yeah, sure, they like one another -- but more importantly, they can finish one another’s closing arguments. When you're a middle-aged Mary Sue, that right there is some good fucking romance.

If you read my other rec posts, you know I'm very picky about my het. This is good het. Maybe not great het, but still very good. Solid 8/10. Their chemistry is strong. I can absolutely imagine her strap-on collection. He's like a foot taller, but we still know who's going down.

Into it?

Netflix made this one, so Netflix is where you're going to find it. This does mean, annoyingly, that a lot of the onscreen text doesn't get translated, and none of the English lines get captioned, both of which are incredibly bad practices. Come on, Netflix, you've got eleventy bajillion dollars, you can do better.

...Also, am I wrong about people knowing that other people think female hyenas have penises? Is this knowledge what I deserve for spending too much time studying the ancient world? Dammit.

Kick his ass, baby; I'll hold your track suit.

[sayonara363]

I got my most beatiful beloved girl Esil A3 (do not regret) and I have cleared every single possible content about her.

Shame that my ass is too weak to actually use her. Workshop of brilliant light (the new stage) I got my ass beaten up despite me trying a lot of teams…. I tried combing my Esil with my strongest hunter Tomas but somehow even Tomas who cleared every content with such an ease where others struggled couldn’t even bring that first boss to half health.

I also tried using Jina Yoo Sohyun and Esil but… made even worse.

Than Thomas Hae-In and Meilin also tried but no success. And I gave up thinking I will come back to it later.

I then went to simulated universe to try my luck there. Because light wasn’t now a weakness I went with Esil Isla (I know she goes only with dark type, I just wanted to use Esil and my fire hunters suck) and Charlotte because she may not with such ease as Thomas but also clears everything.

Got beaten horribly. Tried Isla Charlotte and Harper. Emma was a hater who didn’t even gave me time to regenerate my dash and interrupted every single combo of basic attacks I tried to use so I can have my ultimate. I needed a one more second to win but oh well. Not my day I guess.

If anybody has a tip about Workshop of Brilliant light I would be forever grateful.

SPOILERS FOR ESIL RADIRU ARCHIVE +DOSSIER

Turns out my love for Esil was in fact not in vain after all those years without a single content about her but here I am. Finally I was given mercy and salvation.

ESIL CAME TO EARTH YAY!!!!!!

Noooo Esil you are not a traitor! You are forced to fight girl that is not your fault that Absolute being is such a terrible creator.

Ashborn? What are you doing here???

Ashborn: watching kr drama live.

Esil saying she saw a shadowy figure proves my point that Ashborn has a hobby of cosplaying which he loves because he doesn’t like being himself.

And then she says that they are here not to invade but they are actually trapped suggesting that Rulers captured them and imprisoned using them as a training material for humans to learn how not only how to use that power but to prepare for the real war.

Esil is actually a genius???? Damn. Learned Korean in a span of a few days. Also my girl is 205 years old. And she also now has a personal trainings with Shadows? YEAH!!! SHE GOES INTO DUNGEONS WITH JINWOO?! HELL YEAH!!!!🔥💥💥💥✊✊ WE WON!!! THE FANS OF ESIL WON AS NOBODY WON BEFORE!!!!!!!! SHE ALSO LIKES TO CROCHET??? RRRAAAAAHHH There was a different word for it but I forgot it.

Esil x Jinwoo on top and why don’t I see any fics about them. Watch me change that- “gets writers block”

Maybe I would have wished for longer hair but tbh 💔

I do wish for her black armour to be a thing and I really thought that hroma would be it.

[hils79]

Hils Watches Lovely Runner - Ep 13

Wait, what? A few days earlier from when????

Wait, I thought she wasn't allowed to say anything about the future. How does giving her brother winning lottery numbers not count?

Dude, that is literally your job. He escaped from your custody in the first place!

I mean it sounds bad when you say it like that...

She should form a 'time travel compulsive liar' club with Shen Wei

Well now her mum know she was lying because Sunjae just showed up, and Sunjae has just figured out she was faking having gone back to the future. Im Sol is going to be in so much trouble!

I see this a lot in dramas. Do Korean phone messages really know if the phone has been turned off or is it just a plot device?

Sunjae is apparently way more worried about her than her own mother

I mean I can see why she's freaking out. She's already in the past, and she's run out of time travel attempts (still not sure why that is) so if something happens to him now there's no way for her to fix it. Even if she hadn't run out of time travel attempts can she even go further back into to past? All three times she's travelled from 2023 and she's never gone further back than when she ended up the first time.

Oh, no, but if the serial killer is watching her then he now knows that the cops are there. Oh no.

Yeah, sure, why bother looking for him when his face is on some posters. I do admire their commitment to doing a little as possible. All of the useful things they've done are only because Im Sol told them to. And the dude escaped 5 mins after they caught him.

Oh no she screamed for help and scared him off and now he's run into Sunjae instead. That's going to do nothing to help with the huge amound of guilt she already has.

OH SHIT!

Oh no and now the sad Jongho song is playing this is not good

Holy fuck he just went off the cliff! I mean I guess this isn't the end because, you know, it's not the end and there's still another 3 episodes left but I have no idea how this is going to get fixed this time! Wow.

Well shit.

Aww no he's a soloist now I DON'T LIKE THIS

I feel like I've seen him in something before but according to MDL I have not. Although Under the Queen's Umbrella is on my to watch list

Ah, there she is. This is what I love most about her. And obv I am sad about Sunjae but I am sure that will get resolved before the end.

Ooh I think this is the first time we've seen Taesung in the present day

Taesung is a cop now? Aww he followed in his dad's footsteps in the end. Maybe he'll be a bit more efficient

I do like that while she's clearly still grieving for Sunjae she remembered what he said about saving her being his choice so she's trying to respect that choice. And there's time for drunken angry resignation letter shenanigans

(Brian Blessed voice) SUNJAE'S ALIVE?????

HE TIME TRAVELLED AS HE WAS DYING!!! I was trying to figure out how this was going to get fixed and this didn't even cross my mind. I love that nothing in this drama is predictable

Okay, he didn't time travel but that's when his watch became a new time machine and Im Sol used it so that she never met Sunjae at all. THIS IS SO TRAGIC.

[dangermousie]

A new poster for cdrama remake of one of my favorite kdramas, Flower of Evil, is out and oooh boy:

What the fuck is that even?

Compare to the posters for the Korean original:

And:

Or the Philippine remake - I don’t like the posters as much as the originals but they are still good:

And:

Both Korean and Philippine posters convey that this is an intense story about two people in an intense relationship.

The Chinese poster conveys…what? A study of middle aged people about to divorce out of ennui? A long discussion of Turner and Ayvazovsky sea landscapes? The vibe of it is utterly nothing to do with the story they are remaking in any fashion other than they all involve people.

Where is intensity? Tension? Love/desire/attraction? The freaking original is a hell of a love story in addition to dark suspense! There is no love or darkness or suspense or anything. If you see this poster and go “oh yeah this is about a policewoman who starts to suspect her beloved husband is a serial killer, but things turn out to be quite different than what they seem,” more power to you!

But then, let’s face it, I am still wondering how they can adapt 90% of the original narrative due to cdrama content restrictions. Maybe it WILL end up being a drama about a couple enjoying a seaside holiday as a last ditch divorce-avoidance measure, who knows.

All I know is we are not getting a scene like this:

And not just because this occurs right after she finds out he's married her under a false name and is a man wanted for murder for years. Go get it! She might put him away if he really did what he's accused of doing but not before taking him out for a spin one last time...and who can blame her?