#Seventeen Hong Jisoo Fanfiction

[thedensworld]

Something Between Us | H.Js

Genre: angst, arranged marriage, exes au!

Summary: An old couple meet again, with the same feeling inside their chest. What's something between them still left?

Author note: i dedicate this story for all of my plot twist lover. Here's for you guys. With love and— of course, so much care🤍

Joshua held his cup of coffee, feeling its warmth seep into his hands as he waited for you to arrive. Nervous? Of course, he was. It had been three long years since the two of you had seen each other. In all that time, there had been no reason or opportunity for your paths to cross. But today, after meticulous planning and endless back-and-forth between your secretaries, the two of you were about to meet again—this time as business partners.

Joshua had always been skeptical about arranged marriages. His parents' marriage had crumbled when he was just ten years old, and his father had remarried only two years later. His mother eventually found the love of her life in her fifties, but not before enduring two failed marriages. Joshua himself had experienced a failed arranged marriage—with you, three years ago. So, when his friends claimed they were happy in their arranged marriages, he couldn’t help but doubt them.

He had once said the same thing during the first year of your marriage.

As you walked toward him, Joshua couldn’t help but notice how much your hair had grown since the last time he saw you. You had always preferred muted tones, but today you wore a baby blue work attire that caught him off guard. Rising from his seat, Joshua offered you a professional handshake before motioning for you to sit across from him. Your secretaries took their seats beside you both, their awkward silence adding to the already tense atmosphere in the room.

Today's meeting was supposed to be strictly business. After your father passed away a few months ago, you had surprised Joshua by sending a proposal to rekindle the business relationship that had been severed when the two of you went your separate ways three years ago. He was genuinely shocked. He never imagined that the Ji family would reach out to him first, especially given that your families had also "divorced" in a sense when you did.

"I’ve gone through the proposal you sent. It’s clear there’s still potential between our companies, but a lot has changed in the past three years.”

You nodded, your expression unreadable. “Yes, quite a lot has changed,” you agreed. “The industry has evolved, and so have our respective companies. That’s precisely why I believe it’s important for us to explore a new collaboration.”

Joshua studied you carefully, his mind racing. Your brother Seungcheol was the rightful successor, the one running the family business now. There was no logical reason for you to involve yourself—especially after being away from the business world since your divorce. Why would you suddenly want to rekindle this partnership? Was this truly about the companies, or was there something more you weren’t saying?

“Your brother,” Joshua began cautiously, “is more than capable of handling the business. I’m curious why you felt the need to personally reach out to me, given that Seungcheol is the one at the helm now.”

You met his gaze, your eyes steady. “Seungcheol is indeed in charge, and he’s doing an excellent job. But there are some things only I can handle, and this partnership is one of them. I know the history, the nuances between our companies. There’s unfinished business here, Joshua. You and I both know that.”

Joshua couldn’t deny the truth in your words, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more beneath the surface. “And you think you can just step back in and pick up where we left off?” he asked, skepticism lacing his tone. “You’ve been out of the industry for three years. A lot has changed—not just in business, but in the way we operate, the strategies we use. Do you really think you can bring the same value you once did?”

A faint smile played on your lips. “I may have been away, but I’ve kept my eyes open. I’m well aware of the changes and the new dynamics at play. But this isn’t just about proving my worth, Joshua. It’s about leveraging the strengths of both our companies for mutual benefit. We have something unique—a history, a shared vision, even if it was derailed for a while.”

Joshua leaned back, crossing his arms as he regarded you thoughtfully. “And what exactly are you offering? What do you bring to the table that your brother or anyone else in your company can’t?”

You took a deep breath before answering, your voice firm. “What I bring is a perspective that no one else has. I understand the intricacies of both our businesses, and I know what was lost when we parted ways. I also know how to regain that edge. This isn’t just about merging resources or expanding markets. It’s about restoring what was once a strong alliance—something that could be stronger than ever if we approach it the right way.”

Joshua could sense the conviction in your voice, but he also sensed something else—a personal stake that went beyond business. You weren’t just here to broker a deal; there was something deeper driving you, something you weren’t ready to reveal just yet. But for now, he played along, curious to see where this would lead.

*

Seungkwan, Joshua's dedicated secretary, arrived at ten o'clock at night with a box of Joshua's old files from his parents' house, driven by an urgent matter. The contents were from a pivotal time in Joshua's life—the period when his business had merged with his ex-partner's company.

Joshua had been immersed in the business world since his college days, with a particular passion for coffee beans. His grandfather, recognizing his potential, gifted young Joshua a piece of land to cultivate and manage. After years of gaining valuable experience, Joshua made the bold decision to take over his family’s business—a company specializing in the distribution of fresh food sources. His natural talent for business didn’t go unnoticed; your father, who was well-acquainted with Joshua's grandfather, saw a promising match between you and Joshua.

Your family’s legacy in the industry stretches back further than Joshua’s, with a focus on real estate—hotels, buildings, and shopping malls. In fact, Joshua’s grandfather had once worked for your family before establishing his own empire. Over the years, Joshua's family business became a key supplier of fresh food for your family's hotels, creating a longstanding partnership between the two enterprises.

What began as a mere introduction between you and Joshua quickly evolved into a strategic arrangement orchestrated by your father and Joshua's grandfather. They agreed to a marriage between the two of you, believing it would further solidify the bond between the companies.

Fortunately, neither of you had any objections. Joshua found himself deeply attracted to your integrity and kindness, qualities that only strengthened his affection over time. What started as a business arrangement blossomed into a genuine partnership, both in life and in the boardroom.

"Let's get divorced after a few years," you suggested, your voice carefully measured as you spoke after a family meeting just before the wedding.

Joshua raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Let's not talk about divorce when we haven’t even said ‘I do’ yet."

You sighed, trying to find the right words. "That's not what I meant. I just want us to have the freedom to express our thoughts about this... arrangement. I don't want you to regret anything."

Joshua glanced at you briefly before focusing back on the road as he drove you home. A gentle smile played on his lips. "You're too kind, Y/N. Too kind for me."

After the wedding day, Joshua’s life was turned upside down���in the best way possible. His heart raced every time he saw you, and he found it increasingly difficult to keep his hands to himself whenever you were near. It didn’t take long for him to realize he was falling deeply in love with you.

As Joshua started to believe that you might feel the same way, he nearly forgot about the contract you both had signed before the wedding—a marriage contract stipulating that you would divorce after five years.

"Two years," you said one evening, your tone serious as you brought up the contract.

Joshua shook his head, a determined look in his eyes. "Five, at least. That’s the right amount of time to have everything settled between our companies before we divorce."

Living with you had been effortless for those years, a seamless partnership that made life feel easy and natural. But one night, after returning from a business trip to Taiwan, Joshua was blindsided when you handed him divorce papers to sign. His heart sank as he stared at you in shock, unable to believe you were bringing up the contract he had thought had long been forgotten.

"We've been fighting a lot," you began, your voice steady but laced with sadness. "And it's always about the same things. We see the world differently, and I don’t think I should live with someone who doesn’t share my vision."

Joshua felt something inside him shatter. He had believed you would understand him, that you were different. But now, he realized you were just like everyone else in his life. Just like his parents who had left him behind.

In that moment, the walls he had built to protect himself from pain crumbled, leaving him feeling more vulnerable than ever. He had fallen in love with you, but now he was faced with the harsh reality that love alone might not be enough to keep you by his side.

"Sorry for taking up your time, Seungkwan, but I really need these papers," Joshua said as he began rifling through the box Seungkwan had brought over.

It had been two weeks since the tense meeting between you and Joshua. Since then, any further communication had been handled strictly by your secretaries, Seungkwan and Chan. The deadline for Joshua to make a decision on your offer was only two days away.

Seungkwan sat down, opening his tablet to check his list of tasks. As he glanced at the screen, a thought crossed his mind. "By the way, do you know who Jina is?" he asked Joshua casually.

Joshua frowned, shaking his head. "Jina who?"

Seungkwan shrugged. "I’m not sure. Chan, Ms. Choi's secretary, mentioned that she had to take care of her child, Jina. I was wondering if she might have remarried already?"

Joshua’s hands froze mid-movement as his heart skipped a beat. Child. The word echoed in his mind, bringing with it a flood of questions. Are you married already? Did you finally have the family you always dreamed of? Are you happy now with the child he couldn’t give you?

He forced himself to respond, keeping his voice as neutral as possible. "Really? I didn't know."

Seungkwan nodded, seemingly unfazed. "Maybe it was a secret marriage. After all, it’s only been three years since her divorce from you," he speculated.

Three years. That was all it took for you to move on, to find someone new. To build the life that he had always wanted with you. Meanwhile, Joshua couldn't even fathom replacing you. The mere thought of it felt impossible, as if no one could ever fill the void you left behind.

*

Joshua met with you once to sign the MoU between your two companies. A month passed, and he began to realize that rekindling the business relationship between your families had been a good idea after all.

One afternoon, Joshua was out for lunch with a client. After their meal, he headed to the restroom and was surprised to find a little girl crying in front of the men’s room. Seeing that no one else was around, he gently picked her up and wiped the tears from her chubby cheeks.

“Mom…” the little girl whimpered, her voice breaking Joshua’s heart. Deciding to help, he started looking for her parents.

As he walked down the hallway, he heard familiar voices arguing. Turning the corner, he saw you scolding a younger woman dressed in what looked like a nanny's uniform.

"How could you lose her?" you snapped, clearly distressed.

Before Joshua could speak, you spotted him, your eyes widening as you quickly approached. "Jina, where have you been?" you called out as you reached for the little girl.

Joshua’s breath caught as your eyes met his. For a brief moment, your steps faltered, but then you took the girl from his arms, your expression softening as you spoke to her.

“Hey, it’s okay. I’m here,” you soothed, cradling the little girl you had called Jina.

“Thank you so much,” you said to Joshua, your voice filled with relief. “She just learned to run, and she slipped away from her nanny.”

You handed Jina back to the nanny you had been scolding moments before, and Joshua couldn’t help but stare at the little girl. She had your beautiful eyes, and Joshua couldn’t deny that she was the cutest toddler he had ever seen.

As he watched you comfort Jina, Joshua felt a pang in his chest, a mix of emotions swirling inside him. Seeing you with a child—a child who looked so much like you—brought back memories of the dreams he once had, dreams of a life you could have had together.

Joshua stood there, watching as you cradled Jina in your arms, and memories of your time together flooded back. During your marriage, you had often expressed your deep desire to start a family. You had dreamed of having children, of creating a warm and loving home where you could nurture and protect them. You had spoken to Joshua about it openly, passionately, yearning for a child who would be a symbol of the love you once shared.

But Joshua had been paralyzed by fear. The idea of becoming a father terrified him, more than he could ever admit to you. He had grown up in a house filled with anger and pain, a witness to his father’s cruelty. His father had been abusive, both physically and emotionally, to Joshua and his mother. Joshua had seen firsthand the damage a father could do to his family, how easily love could turn to hate, how trust could be shattered by betrayal. He had watched his father cheat on his mother, breaking her spirit before finally leaving her for someone else.

These memories haunted Joshua. The thought of becoming a father brought back all those fears—the fear of repeating his father’s mistakes, the fear of not being good enough, the fear of hurting those he loved the most. He didn’t want to bring a child into the world only to fail them, to fail you. And so, every time you spoke of starting a family, Joshua found himself pulling away, unable to share your dream. He was too afraid of the past repeating itself, of becoming the very thing he had always despised.

He remembered the arguments that would arise whenever the topic came up, the frustration in your eyes when he hesitated, the sadness in your voice when he couldn’t give you a clear answer. He had loved you, but his fear had been stronger than his love. He had convinced himself that he was protecting you, protecting any potential child from the possibility of being raised by someone who wasn’t capable of being the father they deserved.

But now, as he looked at Jina—this little girl who had your eyes, your gentleness—he couldn’t help but wonder what might have been. Seeing you as a mother, so natural, so caring, made him realize just how much he had deprived both of you by letting his fears control him. The life you had wanted, the family you had dreamed of—it was something he could never have given you because he had been too afraid to try.

Joshua felt a deep, aching regret settle in his chest. He had let you go, thinking it was for the best, thinking it was the only way to protect you from the darkness inside him. But now, he could see how much he had lost in the process. You had moved on, found the family you always wanted, while he remained trapped by the ghosts of his past.

As you walked away with Jina, Joshua realized that he had not only lost you but also the chance to be part of something truly beautiful. And for the first time, he wondered if he could ever forgive himself for letting fear steal away the life he could have had with you.

*

Joshua was interrupted by a notification that there was a call from Seungcheol, your older brother and the soon-to-be president of Choi Corps. He immediately put down his work and picked up the call, his focus sharpening. Seungcheol’s breathy, urgent voice greeted him on the other end, asking if Joshua was in town at the moment.

"Yes, I'm in my office right now," Joshua replied, his concern mounting.

Joshua and Seungcheol had known each other since college, having attended the same business school. They knew each other better than mere acquaintances, but their relationship was complicated by an underlying competitiveness. Both were driven, ambitious, and determined to succeed—traits that had prevented them from becoming close friends. There could only be one star, and Seungcheol had often seemed to take the throne, aided by his privilege and relentless work ethic.

"I need you to get to Seoul University Hospital. Now!" Seungcheol’s voice was sharp, tinged with urgency.

Joshua’s heart skipped a beat, panic setting in. "What's wrong? Did something happen to Y/n?" he asked immediately, his pulse quickening.

"No, it’s not Y/n," Seungcheol answered, his tone tense. "Someone else needs you."

"Who?" Joshua pressed, confusion and worry battling within him.

"Just get here, Joshua. I’m begging you. My sister... she’s not in the right state of mind right now," Seungcheol pleaded, his voice cracking with desperation.

Joshua’s mind raced, trying to piece together what could have happened. The urgency in Seungcheol’s voice told him it was serious, and despite their complicated history, he knew he couldn’t ignore the call. Without wasting another second, Joshua grabbed his keys and headed out the door, a sense of dread settling in his chest as he rushed to the hospital.

Joshua arrived at Seoul University Hospital, his heart pounding in his chest. The cold, sterile smell of the hospital hit him as he hurried through the halls, searching for the ICU. His mind raced, trying to make sense of Seungcheol's cryptic call. The worry in Seungcheol's voice had been unmistakable, but Joshua still didn’t fully understand what was happening.

When he finally found the ICU, his eyes immediately landed on Seungcheol, who was standing rigidly with a tense expression. Seungcheol’s eyes locked onto Joshua as soon as he approached, and he stood up straighter, signaling Joshua over.

You were sitting on a bench beside Seungcheol, your head buried in your knees, your body trembling slightly. Chan, your secretary, stood beside you, a hand resting on your shoulder, trying to offer some semblance of comfort.

Joshua felt his stomach twist at the sight of you like this—so vulnerable, so unlike the strong, composed person he knew. His gaze flickered between you and Seungcheol, searching for answers in their expressions.

"Seungcheol, what’s going on?" Joshua asked, his voice laced with concern and confusion.

Seungcheol took a deep breath, his face strained as he struggled to keep his composure. "It’s Jina," he began, his voice heavy with emotion. "She collapsed earlier today, and they had to rush her here. The doctors said she needs an immediate white cell transfusion."

Joshua blinked, trying to process the information. "A white cell transfusion? But... why? What happened to her?"

Seungcheol ran a hand through his hair, clearly distressed. "Jina has a rare blood disorder. Her white cell count dropped dangerously low, and she’s in critical condition. The doctors are doing everything they can, but they said she needs a specific type of transfusion—one that’s not easy to come by."

Joshua's mind reeled as he tried to comprehend the gravity of the situation. "But why... why did you call me? What does this have to do with me?"

Seungcheol hesitated, glancing at you before answering. "Jina is your daughter, Joshua," he finally said, the words heavy with the weight of the truth. "That’s why we need you. You’re her father."

*

"Get that bastard here!" your father roared, his voice echoing through the house. You winced, hearing the fury in his tone as your mother quietly explained what had happened to you over the past few months since the divorce.

Seungcheol sat across from you, his eyes fixed on you with a mixture of disappointment and concern, as if you had committed some unforgivable sin. In a way, you had—you had made a decision that not only affected your life but also threatened to tear apart the relationship between two powerful companies.

He sighed heavily, breaking the tense silence. "He didn’t want the child. Is that why you two got divorced?" His voice was quiet but edged with disbelief.

You nodded slowly, unable to meet his gaze. The truth was hard to swallow, even now.

"Then why did you run away?" Seungcheol asked, his voice softening with confusion and concern.

After six months of hiding in Jeju, Seungcheol had finally found you and dragged you back home. The shock on his face was unmistakable when he discovered you were pregnant. At first, he had assumed that someone had taken advantage of you while you were away after the divorce. But when you tearfully confessed that the baby was Joshua’s, his shock turned to something deeper—betrayal, perhaps, or simply the weight of a truth he hadn’t been prepared to hear.

"Is there anything else you're hiding?" Seungcheol asked, his eyes searching yours.

You shook your head, unable to speak. The shame and guilt were too much to bear.

He leaned back, his expression unreadable. "I won’t tell anyone about this," he finally said, his voice firm but kind. "But one day, he needs to know. You can’t let a child grow up without a father, Y/n."

"He doesn’t want them," you whispered, your voice trembling. "Why can’t you understand that?"

Seungcheol bit his lip, clearly struggling with his emotions. He wanted to protect you, but he also knew the importance of a father’s presence in a child’s life.

Suddenly, the door burst open, and your father stormed in, his face contorted with rage. He marched straight to you, his anger palpable. "Has he ever touched you inappropriately? Has he ever been abusive to you?" he demanded, his voice harsh and filled with protective fury.

"No, Father," you replied, your voice barely above a whisper. "He never did."

Your father’s face darkened further as he turned to Seungcheol. "Cut ties with him, Seungcheol. How dare he divorce you while you were pregnant with his child," he ordered, his voice seething with anger.

Seungcheol nodded slowly, his eyes flickering between you and your father. The decision had been made. The relationship between the two companies would be severed, and Joshua would be held accountable for abandoning you. But in the back of your mind, you couldn’t help but feel the weight of the secret you still carried—the knowledge that despite everything, a part of you still loved Joshua, and you couldn’t bring yourself to hate him entirely.

Joshua’s mother had always been frail, suffering from a rare condition that left her frequently unwell. It was this reason that led Joshua to make the decision to live with his mother after just a few months of marriage. Despite both of you juggling demanding careers, Joshua insisted on taking care of her personally, sending the nurse away each night so he could attend to her himself.

Since Joshua had taken over the highest responsibilities at his company, business trips became a frequent part of his life, often leaving you alone with his mother. In the beginning, it wasn’t so bad. His mother was kind and nurturing, and you appreciated her presence. But as the months went on, things began to change.

Her once gentle suggestions started to feel more like subtle commands. "Don’t you think you should prepare a bath for him?" she mentioned one evening, shortly before Joshua was expected home from the office. You simply smiled in response, too tired to engage after a long day at work. But the comment lingered, an unspoken expectation hanging in the air.

"Y/n, you should stay at home," she said another time, her tone laced with concern. "You’ll be too exhausted to properly take care of your husband if you keep working."

Her words, once easy to brush off, began to grate on your nerves, especially on days when work had already worn you thin. Yet, you remained composed, understanding that she was his mother and that her meddling came from a place of care—even if it didn’t always feel that way.

There were nights when you would approach Joshua, hoping to discuss the possibility of the two of you living separately, away from the constant strain of these expectations. "Can’t we find a place of our own?" you’d ask gently. "It’s just… it’s getting hard, Joshua."

But Joshua would always respond with the same quiet firmness, his love for his mother evident in every word. "She’s too ill, love. I don’t think I can leave her to live alone."

And so, you tried to understand. You tried to be patient, even as the weight of the situation began to press down on your marriage.

One evening, as you were tidying up the living room, Joshua’s mother approached you with a soft but probing tone. "Have you checked yourself at the hospital, darling?" she asked, her eyes studying your reaction. "It’s been a few years now, and you still haven’t gotten pregnant. Is everything all right?"

Her question, though couched in concern, felt like a punch to the gut. You paused, the magazine you were holding slipping from your fingers as her words echoed in your mind. You had been bracing yourself for this conversation, knowing it was only a matter of time before she brought it up.

You took a deep breath and forced a smile, trying to keep your emotions in check. "The doctors say everything is fine, Mother," you replied, keeping your voice as steady as possible. "It just hasn’t happened yet."

Joshua’s mother frowned slightly, her concern deepening. "But it’s been so long, Y/n. You should consider seeing a specialist, maybe even explore other options."

The suggestion stung, though you knew she meant well. It wasn’t just the pressure to conceive—it was the weight of expectation that you carried every day. You had wanted a child just as much as she did, if not more. But Joshua… Joshua had been hesitant from the start.

You remembered the conversations you had had with him, the nights you had spent lying awake, thinking about the future, imagining the family you could build together. But Joshua always seemed reluctant, his fear of fatherhood holding him back. He had grown up in a broken home, witnessed his father’s abuse, and the scars those memories left on him ran deep. He had confessed to you once, in a rare moment of vulnerability, that he was terrified of becoming like his father, of hurting you or any future children the way his father had hurt him and his mother.

"We’ll have a child when the time is right," Joshua would say, his voice heavy with the weight of his own fears. "But not now. I’m not ready, Y/n."

And so, you had waited, pushing down your own longing, hoping that one day, he would feel ready. But as the years passed, the strain began to show—not just on you, but on your marriage as well. Now, with his mother’s pointed question hanging in the air, the unspoken tension between you and Joshua felt more palpable than ever.

"I understand," you finally said, your voice barely above a whisper. "But it’s not just about seeing a specialist. There are other things… other reasons why it hasn’t happened yet."

Joshua’s mother looked at you with a mixture of pity and concern, clearly wanting to say more but holding back. "I just want what’s best for you, dear," she said softly. "For both of you."

You nodded, appreciating her concern even though it added to the weight you were already carrying. "I know. And we want that too."

But as you turned away, the words she didn’t say lingered in your mind, amplifying the doubts that had already taken root. You wanted to believe that everything would work out, that Joshua would eventually overcome his fears. But as time went on, it became harder to ignore the growing distance between the life you had imagined and the reality you were living.

"You know, she’s a lovely girl," one of Joshua's mother friends said when they came for visiting, her voice laced with that particular tone people use when they’re about to say something less than flattering. "But it’s strange, isn’t it? They’ve been married for years now, and still no children."

Another woman chimed in, "Yes, I’ve noticed. It’s unusual, especially for a young couple like them. Have they mentioned anything to you about it?"

There was a pause, and then you heard Joshua’s mother sigh. "No, she hasn’t said much. But I’m beginning to worry… What if she’s infertile?"

The words hit you like a slap. You froze, your breath catching in your throat as the conversation continued.

"Oh, that would be such a shame," one of the women responded sympathetically. "Your son deserves to have children, to continue the family line."

"I know," Joshua’s mother replied, her voice heavy with a mix of concern and resignation. "I feel so bad for him. He’s always wanted a family, and I’m sure this must be hard on him. But… what can we do?"

They moved on to other topics, but you couldn’t focus on anything else. The words echoed in your mind, over and over, each repetition cutting deeper than the last.

Infertile.

A shame.

I feel so bad for him.

You knew Joshua’s mother meant well, in her own way. But hearing her talk about you like that, like you were some kind of defective person, made you feel like you didn’t belong in this family—like you were failing Joshua, failing yourself. The weight of it all was too much to bear.

The tension between you and Joshua had been building for months, and after overhearing his mother’s conversation, it finally reached a breaking point. The desire for a child had always been there, but now, it felt like a constant, pressing need—one that you couldn’t ignore any longer.

“Joshua,” you began carefully as the two of you sat down for dinner, “we need to talk.”

He looked up from his plate, his expression wary. He knew what was coming. You had had this conversation before, and it never ended well.

“Can’t we just eat in peace?” he asked, his voice tired.

You took a deep breath, trying to steady yourself. “Your mother… she’s been putting a lot of pressure on me about having a child. She’s been saying things that… that hurt.”

Joshua frowned, confusion clouding his expression. “What do you mean?”

“She’s been asking me why I haven’t gotten pregnant yet. She even suggested I should see a doctor, as if there’s something wrong with me,” you confessed, your voice breaking slightly. “And I overheard her telling her friends that she thinks I might be infertile. She felt bad for you, saying that you deserve a child, and she doubted if I could give you one.”

Joshua’s face darkened, his eyes narrowing. “She said that?”

You nodded, tears welling up in your eyes. “Yes. And it hurt, Joshua. It made me feel like I’m failing you, like I’m not good enough. I’ve tried to be understanding, I’ve tried to be patient, but… it’s tearing me apart.”

Instead of the sympathy you had hoped for, Joshua’s expression hardened. “My mother is ill, Y/n. She’s under a lot of stress, and she’s worried about us. That’s why she says those things. It’s not fair to hold that against her.”

“I’m not trying to hold it against her,” you said, your frustration rising. “But it’s affecting us, Joshua. It’s not just about what she said—it’s about how it’s making me feel. I’ve been trying to handle it on my own, but I can’t anymore. I need you to understand how much this is hurting me.”

Joshua shook his head, his voice growing colder. “So what? You want me to blame my mother? You think she’s the villain here? She’s just looking out for me, for us.”

“No, that’s not what I’m saying,” you replied, feeling your own anger flare up. “But you can’t just dismiss how I feel. She’s making me feel like I’m not enough, like I’m failing as your wife, and you’re not doing anything to stop it.”

Joshua stood up from the table, pushing his chair back with more force than necessary. “She’s sick, Y/n! She’s the only family I have left, and you want me to start a fight with her because she’s worried about us having kids? You’re blowing this out of proportion.”

You stood up as well, the pain in your chest twisting into something sharper. “I’m not blowing it out of proportion! I’m telling you that your mother is hurting me, and instead of listening to me, you’re defending her!”

Joshua’s face was flushed with anger now, his hands balled into fists. “You don’t understand what it’s like, Y/n. You don’t know what she’s been through, what I’ve been through. She’s trying to protect me, and you’re turning her into some kind of monster!”

“I’m not!” you shouted, tears spilling down your cheeks. “But I can’t just keep pretending that everything’s fine when it’s not! I’m drowning here, Joshua, and you’re more concerned about protecting your mother’s feelings than mine!”

Joshua’s voice dropped, cold and sharp. “You’re the one who’s making this a fight, not me. Maybe you’re just looking for someone to blame because you’re not getting what you want.”

His words hit you like a slap in the face, and you recoiled, shocked by the bitterness in his tone. “Is that really what you think?” you whispered, your voice shaking.

Joshua’s gaze softened slightly, as if he realized he’d gone too far, but the tension in the air was too thick to dispel. He sighed, running a hand through his hair, but he didn’t apologize. He didn’t take it back.

Instead, he turned away, his back to you. “I can’t do this right now, Y/n. I just… I need some space.”

The room felt colder as he walked away, leaving you standing there alone, your heart aching with the weight of everything unsaid. You had come to him, hoping for understanding, for support, but instead, you felt more isolated than ever. The chasm between you and Joshua seemed to grow wider with every passing moment, and you were left wondering how, or if, you could ever bridge it again.

*

After the divorce was finalized, you wasted no time in disappearing to Jeju. It was a quiet, impulsive decision—one made in the heat of heartache and confusion. You didn’t tell anyone, not even your family, because you couldn’t bear the thought of facing their pity or questions. You needed to escape, to be alone with your thoughts, away from the memories and the pain.

The divorce had happened faster than you expected, almost too smoothly. There had been no drawn-out arguments, no legal battles. It was as if Joshua had been waiting for this, and that realization stung more than anything. You had thought there would be some resistance, some sign that he was still holding on to what you had built together. But there wasn’t. He signed the papers without hesitation, and with that, the final chapter of your marriage was closed.

The speed of it all made you wonder if Joshua had already given up on you long before the papers were drawn. Maybe he had been tired of you, tired of the constant tension and arguments, tired of your desire for a child that he couldn’t bring himself to accept. It was easier for him to let go than to fight, and that thought was devastating.

In Jeju, you found solace in the quiet. The island, with its endless ocean views and soft winds, offered the peace that you so desperately needed. You stayed in a small cottage near the shore, far removed from the life you once knew. The waves crashing against the rocks became your lullaby at night, and the sunrises over the water offered a sliver of hope each morning.

But no matter how hard you tried to run away from the past, it followed you. Every time you closed your eyes, you saw Joshua’s face. You heard his voice, the way he had told you he needed space, the way he had defended his mother over you.

You woke up to the harsh, sterile smell of alcohol and the blinding white light that filled the room. Your head throbbed as you slowly opened your eyes, and for a moment, you struggled to make sense of your surroundings. The last thing you remembered was sitting on the shore, watching the waves roll in. The peaceful rhythm of the sea had always calmed you, but now, everything felt off—foreign, wrong.

Panic surged through you as you tried to sit up, only to realize you were lying on a hospital bed. The walls were white, the sound of medical machines humming in the background. You weren’t on the beach anymore. This wasn’t your cottage.

A soft voice pulled you out of your daze. “Mam, can you hear me?”

You turned to see a man in a white coat standing beside you. His expression was calm but concerned. “I’m Dr. Kim. You’re in a clinic now. Can you tell me your name?”

You blinked, your mind still foggy. “Y/n,” you whispered, your voice dry and weak.

Dr. Kim nodded, offering a small smile. “Good. Do you remember what happened?”

You tried to think back, but your memories were jumbled. The sea, the breeze, the quiet… and then nothing. You shook your head slowly. “I was on the beach. That’s all I remember.”

He sighed softly, glancing at the chart in his hand. “You were found by a fisherman early this morning. You passed out, and he brought you here. We’ve run some tests to make sure you’re okay.”

You swallowed, a sinking feeling growing in the pit of your stomach. “Tests?”

“Yes,” Dr. Kim said gently, “and I want to assure you, you’re going to be fine. But there’s something else you need to know.” He hesitated for a moment before continuing. “You’re eight weeks pregnant.”

Your heart stopped. Pregnant? The word echoed in your mind, but it didn’t feel real. “No,” you muttered, shaking your head. “That can’t be right.”

Dr. Kim’s expression softened with understanding. “I know this might be unexpected news, but the tests confirmed it. You’re two months along.”

Two months. Eight weeks. The timeline fit perfectly with everything that had happened just before you left Joshua, before the divorce, before everything crumbled. You placed a trembling hand on your stomach, still flat but now holding a secret that was no longer just yours.

Suddenly, everything rushed back—the arguments, Joshua’s rejection, and his fear of fatherhood, And now, here you were, in a clinic, alone and pregnant.

Tears stung your eyes as the weight of it all came crashing down. You had hoped to avoid this moment, to escape it, but there was no running away from the truth now. You were going to have a child—Joshua’s child—and no matter how much you had tried to distance yourself from him, he would always be a part of this.

Dr. Kim’s voice broke through your thoughts. “Is there anyone you’d like us to contact? A family member, perhaps?”

You shook your head quickly, the tears now freely falling down your cheeks. “No. No one.”

He nodded, his expression kind but professional. “Take your time. We’ll make sure you’re stable and that everything with the pregnancy is progressing well. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask.”

As he left the room, you were left alone with your thoughts and the knowledge that your life had just changed forever. The child you hadn’t dared to hope for was real, growing inside you, and now you had to decide what to do next.

But even as the fear gripped your heart, a small flicker of hope began to grow. For the first time in months, you weren’t running away. You were facing the future—one step at a time.

*

"Can we talk?"

You froze in place as Joshua's voice reached you. Turning slowly, you saw him standing there, dressed in a hospital gown, clearly preparing for his medical checkup before the donor. His eyes were tired, filled with confusion and something else you couldn’t quite place.

"I'm sorry," you muttered, your voice strained, "I have no energy for this right now."

"At least give me some enlightenment," Joshua said, his tone surprisingly calm despite the tension between you. "I came here two hours ago not knowing I had a daughter. And I've been patient enough to wait to ask this."

You felt the weight of his words pressing down on you. He had a right to know, and yet, telling him had always seemed impossible. You took a step toward him, meeting his gaze as you spoke quietly, “Yes, she's your daughter. I found out I was pregnant a week after our divorce.

A heavy silence hung between you as Joshua absorbed the news. His face remained unreadable, but you could see the storm of emotions brewing beneath the surface.

"You need a proof?" you asked, almost defensively, your heart racing.

Joshua shook his head slowly. "No... I don’t need proof."

You let out a breath you hadn’t realized you were holding, but before you could speak again, he continued.

"I wish she was mine," Joshua whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "From the first time I saw her, I wished she was mine."

His words caught you off guard, and for a moment, you couldn't respond. You had prepared for anger, for denial, for resentment, but not this. Not the raw longing in his voice, the quiet regret that had been buried deep inside him.

“I—” you started, but your voice faltered. You weren’t sure what to say.

Joshua took a deep breath, his hand running through his hair as he tried to keep his emotions in check. “Why didn’t you tell me, Y/n? Why did you run away without saying anything? I would’ve—”

“You would’ve what?” you cut him off, your frustration bubbling to the surface. “You would’ve told me how scared you were? How much you didn’t want this? You were terrified of becoming a father, Joshua. I couldn’t bear the thought of you rejecting me, rejecting her.”

He flinched at your words, his jaw tightening. “You should’ve given me a choice.”

“A choice?” You almost laughed, but there was no humor in it. “You couldn’t even handle the idea of having a child. You wanted time. And what was I supposed to do? Sit around and wait for you to be ready while I carried your child?”

Joshua’s eyes were filled with a mix of guilt and pain, but he remained silent, letting you speak.

“I did what I thought was best,” you continued, your voice trembling. “I couldn’t wait for you to come to terms with something that was already happening. I was terrified too, Joshua. But I didn’t have the luxury of walking away from it.”

Joshua looked down at the floor, his hands clenching into fists at his sides. "I get that I was scared. I admit it. But I never would’ve abandoned you... or her." His voice cracked slightly as he spoke.

The vulnerability in his words caused your anger to soften, but the hurt remained. “Then why didn’t you fight for us?” you asked quietly. “Why did the divorce happen so easily?”

Joshua's eyes met yours, and for a moment, you saw the truth—he had been just as lost as you were. “I thought you wanted out,” he said simply. “You brought up the divorce, and I thought you were done with me. I thought... I wasn’t enough.”

You shook your head, tears stinging your eyes. “I didn’t want out. I wanted you to see me, to see us. But you were too focused on your fears.”

The silence that followed was heavy, both of you caught in the weight of everything left unsaid for years.

Joshua watched you closely, piecing together the puzzle in his mind. The business offer that had suddenly appeared out of nowhere, the meetings, the subtle ways you kept a professional distance—it all started to make sense. His eyes narrowed slightly, and he couldn’t help but voice the suspicion gnawing at him.

"This whole sudden approach in business," he began slowly, his voice calm but laced with a quiet intensity, "was it just an excuse? Were you trying to find a way to retaliate our relationship in case Jina needed me?"

Your breath hitched, caught off guard by how quickly he’d reached the conclusion you feared he might.

“Joshua—”

“Just tell me the truth, Y/n,” he said, cutting you off gently but firmly. “Was the business deal just a cover? Were you keeping me close because you thought... she might need me?”

You hesitated, unable to meet his gaze, and that was answer enough for Joshua.

He let out a breath, running a hand through his hair, his expression a mixture of frustration and understanding. “I thought something felt off. The way you kept me at arm’s length, the professional tone... I kept thinking this wasn’t like you. But I didn’t want to push, didn’t want to make it harder.”

Silence fell between you, the tension thick as you struggled to find the right words. Finally, you sighed, your voice low. “I didn’t plan for this. I didn’t expect to reach out to you, not after everything. But when Jina got sick... I panicked. I realized she might need more than just me.”

Joshua’s jaw tightened as he processed your words. “So you were going to keep me out of her life unless she needed something from me?”

“No,” you said, shaking your head quickly. “It wasn’t like that. I wasn’t trying to use you, Joshua. I just... I didn’t know how to let you back in after everything that happened.”

Joshua stared at you, his expression softening as he saw the genuine conflict in your eyes. “You should’ve told me, Y/n. I had a right to know about her, about everything. You can’t just make those decisions on your own.”

“I know,” you whispered, guilt washing over you.

Finally, Joshua took a shaky breath. “I’m here now, Y/n. I don’t know how to make up for the past, but I’m not running away anymore. I want to be in her life. I want to be a father.”

His words hit you like a wave, and though part of you wanted to believe him, another part still held onto the hurt, the disappointment. "She's not something you can just decide to be a part of when it suits you, Joshua."

"I know that," he said softly, his eyes pleading with you. "I’m asking you to let me try."

You looked at him, the man who once couldn’t fathom being a father now standing before you, begging for a chance. It wasn’t forgiveness he sought, but a way forward.

And you didn’t know if you were ready to give it to him. But for your daughter’s sake—for Jina—you had to at least consider it.

"I need time too," you whispered, finally breaking the silence.

Joshua nodded, understanding in his eyes. “Take all the time you need. I’ll be here.”

*

The next day, the results came back—the match was confirmed, and Joshua was prepped for the procedure. The white blood cell donor was done swiftly, and you waited anxiously for updates on both Joshua and Jina.

When you heard Joshua had regained consciousness, you made your way to his room. As you entered, he looked pale but alert, his eyes immediately searching for you.

“How’s her condition?” he asked, his voice still weak, but full of concern.

A smile broke across your face, relief flooding your system. “Her surgery just finished. The doctor said her condition is stable.”

Joshua let out a deep breath of gratitude, sinking back into his pillow. You stood there for a moment, watching him—this man who had once been terrified of fatherhood, now willing to give everything for his daughter.

“Thank you,” you whispered, your voice full of emotion. “Thanks for doing this.”

Joshua nodded, his gaze softening as he looked at you. “I’m her father. I’ll do everything for her.”

There was a weight to his words, an unspoken promise hanging in the air. You felt a knot loosen in your chest, the tension between you easing, if only slightly.

You sat down next to Joshua’s bed, the weight of everything finally sinking in. It had been a whirlwind, from the moment Jina fell sick to this very moment, sitting here with Joshua after the transfusion. Despite everything that had happened between you two, you couldn’t help but feel a strange sense of peace.

"How did you know?" Joshua asked, breaking the silence, his voice tentative.

You glanced up at him, unsure of how to answer. "That she was sick? Or that i have her?"

"Both," he replied, his eyes searching yours for answers.

You sighed, shifting in your seat. "I found out I was pregnant a week after the divorce. At first, I didn’t know what to do. I was scared, hurt, confused... and I didn’t want to reach out to you because I thought you'd reject her, reject us."

Joshua winced, his hand running through his hair. "I didn’t mean to push you away. I just didn’t know how to handle... everything."

"I know," you said softly. "And I ran too. I thought leaving was the best way to protect her. But when Jina got sick, I realized I couldn’t keep you away anymore. She needed you."

There was a pause, and then Joshua's expression turned serious. "You mentioned that Jina’s illness is the same as my mother’s. How did that come to light?"

You took a deep breath, nodding. "Yes, Jina’s condition is indeed the same rare illness your mother had. The doctors confirmed it. It’s hereditary, passed down through genetics, and that’s why the transfusion was so crucial. They said it was a match because of this genetic link."

Joshua's eyes widened with a mix of shock and realization. "I thought... I thought that illness was gone. I didn’t realize it could be passed on."

You reached out, gently touching his hand. "None of us knew until now."

Joshua's face fell as he absorbed the new revelation. "So, she has the same battle to fight as my mother did?"

You nodded sadly. "Yes. But she has a chance now, thanks to you. And that’s what matters."

Joshua’s gaze softened, a mixture of sorrow and resolve in his eyes. "I’ll do everything I can to help her through this. She deserves that chance."

You smiled faintly, feeling a sense of shared purpose. "Thank you, Joshua. That means more than you know."

For now, despite the challenges ahead, there was a shared commitment to face them together, for Jina's sake.

You gently introduced Jina to Joshua for the first time. Holding her small hand in yours, you led her into Joshua’s hospital room. She looked around, her eyes wide and curious, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings. Joshua, still in his hospital gown, sat up in bed, his expression a mix of nervousness and anticipation.

"Jina," you said softly, guiding her forward, "this is your father, Joshua."

Joshua’s eyes were warm as he looked at Jina. "Hi, Jina. It’s nice to finally meet you."

Jina was shy at first, hiding behind your legs and peeking out with wide, hesitant eyes. But as Joshua spoke gently to her, a flicker of recognition seemed to spark in her. She slowly moved closer, drawn by the undeniable bond of blood and the kindness in Joshua’s voice.

Over the next few days, Jina spent a lot of time in the hospital room with Joshua. The transition wasn’t easy at first, but Joshua made an effort to bond with her. He played games, read her stories, and held her hand during her treatments. The connection between them grew stronger with each passing day, and Joshua embraced his role as a father more than you could have hoped for.

As Jina’s condition improved and it was time for her to leave the hospital, she expressed a strong desire to stay with Joshua. She had grown attached to him, and the idea of living with her 'new' father excited her.

Joshua, seeing the bond they had formed and understanding the importance of this new family dynamic, made a heartfelt offer. "Why don’t you and Jina move in with me? It would be better for all of us, and I’d love to be there for both of you."

The offer took you by surprise. You had been adjusting to this new phase in your lives, but the thought of moving in with Joshua again was daunting. There were old wounds to heal and uncertainties to address.

You debated the decision with Joshua, weighing the benefits and challenges. Jina, however, was overjoyed at the prospect of living with her father full-time. Her excitement and the genuine bond she had formed with Joshua made it difficult for you to turn down his offer.

After much consideration, you agreed to move to Joshua’s place. It wasn’t just about convenience; it was about providing Jina with the stability and love she needed. You saw how deeply Joshua cared for her and how committed he was to being a father.

The move was bittersweet. There were remnants of old tensions, but there was also a hopeful sense of new beginnings. As you settled into the new routine, you focused on rebuilding your family and creating a supportive environment for Jina.

Joshua was more present and involved than ever, and the family dynamic slowly began to heal. With each passing day, the past seemed a little less burdensome, and the future, though uncertain, seemed filled with possibilities for all of you.

*

Joshua loosened his tie as he stepped into the house, feeling the familiar weight of exhaustion from the long day. The house was quiet, the kind of peaceful stillness that had become his sanctuary in recent weeks. Usually, by the time he got home, you were already in bed, the soft murmur of the television or the gentle rise and fall of your breathing the only sounds he’d hear. But tonight was different.

As he walked into the kitchen, he heard you come through the door just moments after him, the click of your heels and the tired sigh that followed. He turned, spotting you leaning against the wall, your shoes already off, looking like the day had been longer than usual.

"Just back home?" he asked, casually unbuttoning his shirt collar. The question felt natural, like a routine that had formed between the two of you without either of you realizing it.

"Yeah," you sighed, rubbing the back of your neck. "A very long day. Minha told me Jina fell asleep after playing with the trampoline you just bought her."

Joshua couldn’t help but smile at the mention of Jina. "I’m glad she likes it," he said, feeling that familiar warmth that had come with being a father. Every day with her was new, different, and he found himself looking forward to each moment, no matter how small.

As he grabbed a glass of water, he glanced over at you. Things between the two of you had become... easier. That surprised him more than anything. After everything that had happened—the divorce, the years of separation—he had never expected this sense of peace between you. It was strange, but it was also something he hadn’t realized he’d needed.

It wasn’t just about Jina, though she was the center of it all. It was the way you both slipped into this new life so seamlessly. The tension that once filled the air between you had dissolved into something almost unrecognizable. He wasn’t sure how or when it happened, but somehow, living together again didn’t feel forced or uncomfortable. It felt... right.

"I never thought it would be like this," Joshua found himself saying, almost without thinking. He turned to you, watching as your gaze met his, a look of curiosity in your eyes. "That we’d be here, living together again. Raising her."

You nodded, like you understood exactly what he meant. "Me neither," you replied quietly.

He exhaled slowly, realizing just how much had changed in such a short time. Every part of his life had once been filled with uncertainty, with fear, especially when it came to fatherhood. But now? Now he was coming home to something that felt solid, like the pieces of his life were finally falling into place.

"It feels..." Joshua hesitated, searching for the right words to explain the rush of emotions inside him. "It feels good. Better than I thought it would."

He wasn’t just talking about Jina. Of course, his daughter was a huge part of why he felt this way—being her father, playing with her, watching her grow—it was everything he hadn’t known he wanted. But there was more to it than that. There was something between him and you, a kind of unspoken connection that had started to rebuild itself, brick by brick, without either of you acknowledging it.

The conversation flowed easily from there, a mix of random topics—work, the trampoline, Jina's antics. It was a nice change of pace, a chance to just talk without the weight of the past pressing down on you.

Eventually, the topic shifted to Jina, as it always did. Joshua smiled, thinking about their nightly routine. "She loves her bedtime stories," he said, almost fondly. "It's the best part of the day."

You nodded in agreement, your expression softening. "Yeah, she does. But she asked me something the other night that caught me off guard."

Joshua raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"

"She asked me why we weren't like Sasha's parents." You said it casually, but there was a hint of something deeper in your voice. "You know, from her favorite book. The one about Sasha’s morning routine before school. Waking up, taking a bath, having breakfast."

Joshua thought about it for a second, then nodded. He remembered Jina's animated voice as she read along, her little hands gesturing wildly as she described Sasha's day. "Her parents kiss every morning, right?"

You sighed, a soft smile playing on your lips. "Yeah. And she asked, 'Why don't you and Daddy do that?'"

Joshua could almost hear Jina's voice in his head, the innocent curiosity behind her words. He could picture her big eyes looking up at you, her tiny hands mimicking Sasha's parents.

He glanced over at you, a mischievous glint in his eye. "So... do you want to kiss every morning?"

You rolled your eyes, but there was a slight laugh behind it. "That's not what I was getting at."

Joshua laughed too, the sound filling the room. "Then why bring it up?"

You took a sip of your beer and shrugged. "I don’t know, I guess I just wanted to share what she said. But we don’t have to force ourselves to do things just for her sake. She’ll understand eventually."

Joshua’s smile faded, and he turned serious for a moment. "But she’s still so young. I don’t want her to have to understand everything that’s happened between us. It’s not her burden to carry. That’s on us."

You glanced at him, sensing the weight behind his words. "Is that coming from experience?" you teased lightly.

He let out a soft chuckle, nodding. "Yeah. And trust me, she’ll thank us later if we handle it right."

You sighed, leaning back. "Alright, alright. I get it."

Joshua raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a playful smirk. "So... does that mean you want to kiss every morning?"

You looked at him, a mix of exasperation and amusement. "Joshua."

*

Joshua stepped into the dining room, his usual morning grogginess slowly lifting as the familiar scene came into view. You were already sitting with Jina, who was happily in her baby seat, excitedly munching on her breakfast. Her face lit up as soon as she saw him.

"Morning..." Joshua said softly, his voice warm as he walked over to Jina. He leaned down, ruffling her hair with a fond smile. "Hi, baby... Do you like your food?"

Jina giggled, showing him her messy hands, oatmeal smudged across her cheeks. Joshua chuckled, his heart swelling at the sight. Mornings like these—simple and domestic—were beginning to feel more natural, more like something he hadn’t realized he craved.

You stood up, walking over to the counter, grabbing his coffee and setting it down in front of him with a casual "Morning."

He was about to respond when your lips brushed his, a fleeting touch that froze him in place. It wasn’t long or deliberate, but the surprise of it sent a jolt through him. His mind went blank, his body stiffening in shock.

Before he could even process it, Jina's excited voice cut through the air. "Eomma, appa, kiss!" she squealed, clapping her hands in delight. In her excitement, she managed to fling bits of food everywhere.

You laughed softly, wiping her face and the surrounding area with a cloth, completely unfazed by her mess. "Alright, alright, let's clean you up."

Joshua, still dazed, blinked a few times, trying to shake off the feeling. Did you just kiss him? Did he imagine that? It felt real—too real to just be in his head. He looked down at the coffee you placed in front of him, but he couldn’t focus.

"Do you like your coffee?" Your voice was light, casual, as if nothing unusual had just happened.

He blinked, snapping back to reality. "Uh, yeah. It’s... it’s great." He picked up the cup, taking a sip, the warmth grounding him as he stole a glance at you. You were back to wiping Jina's hands, acting like the kiss hadn’t just happened.

Joshua couldn’t help but replay the moment in his mind, over and over. It was so brief, but it lingered—just like the unspoken questions between you both. Was it for Jina’s sake? Was it just part of the routine now?

Each morning, it became a routine—Joshua would come down to the dining room, greeted by Jina's excited babbling and your calm, steady presence. And each morning, without fail, you would kiss him. It wasn’t long or deep, just a brief brush of your lips against his, but it was enough to make his heart skip. He never expected it, and yet, when it happened, it felt like the most natural thing in the world.

At first, Joshua didn’t know what to make of it. Was it just for Jina? A way to give her the illusion of a normal, loving family? He didn’t ask, though. He couldn’t. The kiss, no matter how small, made him feel something—something he hadn’t felt in years. And if it made you feel anything close to what he did, he didn’t want to ruin it by questioning.

The routine didn’t stop at breakfast. One day, after the morning chaos settled and Jina was off to school, you casually suggested, “What if we take Jina out every weekend? A day just for her.”

Joshua nodded, happy to spend time with both of you. But as the weekends rolled by, your casual suggestion evolved into full-on plans. The park one weekend, then a picnic, followed by the aquarium. Soon you were planning beach trips, and even talks of weekend getaways or out-of-country vacations floated between you two. Joshua didn’t quite understand why you were so insistent on it—why it had to be every weekend, and why everything was planned so meticulously. But he didn’t complain. Instead, he followed along, content with how things were.

The spontaneity didn’t end there. You started coming home early from work, which caught Joshua off guard. He’d walk in from work, loosening his tie, only to find you in the kitchen, dinner already half-prepared, Jina babbling away at the dining table.

At first, Joshua didn’t know how to feel. It was strange seeing you so present. But after a while, he adjusted. He even started leaving work earlier, making sure he was home before dinner so he could sit with you and Jina. That hour before dinner became something he looked forward to—an hour of calm, where the three of you could just be together.

And then there was Jina’s bedtime. What had once been an alternating task—one night you would read her a story, the next it would be Joshua—turned into a shared routine. You both started reading together, one of you voicing the characters while the other filled in the details, Jina giggling between your voices. The joy in her eyes was infectious, and Joshua often caught himself getting lost in the moment.

He hadn’t realized it until recently, but this was the life he’d always dreamed of. He had a daughter, a family, a sense of stability that he never thought he’d have. And you—well, you were more than just a co-parent. Slowly, without either of you acknowledging it, you were slipping back into something more.

Joshua didn’t know where this was going or what you were thinking, but he was happier than he’d been in years. It still felt fragile, like everything could fall apart with one wrong move. But for now, he was content to let things unfold, to enjoy the routine, the warmth of your kiss each morning, the laughter over dinner, and the shared bedtime stories.

It was more than he ever thought he deserved, and he was too scared to ask for anything more.

Joshua came home, but something felt off immediately. The house was unusually quiet. There was no sign of Jina’s usual laughter or your familiar voice filling the space. His brows furrowed as he stepped deeper into the house, scanning the rooms until he finally reached the family room.

There you were, sitting on the couch with Jina nestled in your arms, and across from you sat his mother, her posture stiff, eyes sharp. The tension in the room was palpable.

"Joshua," his mother said, her voice icy. "Care to explain why your ex-wife is here?"

Joshua’s stomach dropped. He hadn’t prepared for this—hadn’t even told his mother about the new situation with you and Jina. His mother had no idea that Jina was her granddaughter. He hadn’t planned for her to find out like this, and now, with everything out in the open, his carefully constructed plan was unraveling.

Taking a deep breath, Joshua walked over and stood between you and his mother. He glanced at you, and the look in your eyes told him you were just as surprised and unsure of what to say.

"This is Jina," Joshua finally said, his voice steady but filled with the weight of the truth. "She’s my daughter."

His mother’s gasp echoed in the room. "Your daughter? What do you mean? What’s going on here?" she demanded, her voice rising with disbelief.

Joshua sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "It’s a long story, Mom. A lot has happened, and I wasn’t ready to tell you yet. But I’ll come by tomorrow and explain everything. For now, I need you to trust me."

His mother looked between him and you, her confusion and frustration evident. Joshua gently took her arm, helping her to stand. "Please," he added softly, "just give me time to explain. We’ll talk tomorrow."

Reluctantly, she nodded, still looking at Jina as if trying to comprehend the new reality. Without another word, Joshua led his mother to the door, closing it softly behind her as she left.

The quiet returned, and when he walked back into the house, he found you already in the kitchen, washing dishes in silence. Jina sat on the floor, engrossed in her favorite TV series, oblivious to the tension that had just filled the house.

Joshua watched you for a moment, the silence between you louder than anything. You moved mechanically, your back to him, the distance between you more than just physical. He knew something was wrong—knew it by the way you didn’t meet his eyes when he walked in, by the way you had prepared his dinner without a word.

"Hey," he said softly, stepping into the kitchen, but you didn’t respond.

After a moment, you finally spoke, your voice low, emotion barely restrained. "I’m going to read Jina to sleep. You should eat your dinner."

Joshua nodded, watching as you wiped your hands on a towel and turned toward Jina. But the weight of the situation hung heavy on him, and he couldn’t let you walk away without saying something.

"Look," he began, his voice hesitant. "I know tonight was... unexpected. I wasn’t ready for her to find out like this. I’m sorry."

"That's fine."

With that, you walked over to Jina, scooping her up and heading toward her bedroom to read her a bedtime story. Joshua stood there, staring at the dinner you had prepared for him, but the food was the last thing on his mind. He knew things had to change, and quickly.

Joshua knocked on your door, knowing you were inside since Jina was already fast asleep in her own room. His heart pounded a little harder than usual, but he had to do this. He needed to clear the air.

"Can we talk?" he asked softly when you opened the door.

You stepped aside, silently giving him permission to enter, and Joshua walked in. The room was small but cozy, though it struck him how different it was from the shared life you once had. His eyes scanned the desk piled with papers, a computer still open—clearly, you had been working late. He realized how much you were juggling, and it only made him more determined to make things right.

"I'll explain everything to my mom tomorrow," he began, his voice steady, though there was a vulnerability in the way he stood. "And I’ll tell her that we’re back together."

You didn’t respond right away, just slowly nodding. But Joshua noticed the way your eyes flickered, the subtle tension in your posture. He couldn’t tell if you were on board with his plan or simply accepting it because it was easier than arguing. That uncertainty gnawed at him.

He knew that his mother had hurt you deeply in the past, her interference during your marriage a wound that hadn’t fully healed. And now, here he was, bringing his mother back into the equation. But this time, the situation was different. His mother had remarried and didn’t need to live with him anymore. There wouldn’t be anyone else in your home to create the chaos that had driven a wedge between you before.

"You won’t have to deal with her like before," Joshua added, his tone softening as he stepped closer. "She won’t be living with us, and I’ll make sure she knows her boundaries. I don’t want her—or anyone else—to hurt you again."

You looked up at him, and for a moment, your eyes locked. He could see the hesitation there, the doubt that lingered from old wounds. But there was something else too, something hopeful. Joshua wasn’t sure if it was enough to convince you, but he had to believe it could be.

"I just need you to trust me," he said quietly, his voice almost pleading now. "I know I’ve messed up before. But I’m trying, and I want to make things right—for you, for Jina, for all of us."

*

Joshua was relieved that the routine didn’t fall apart after that tense night with his mother. Despite the confrontation and the heavy conversation that followed, nothing drastically changed in the way you, Jina, and he interacted. In fact, the next morning, everything seemed normal. Jina was her usual excited self, giggling and bouncing around the house. You were busy as usual, managing the house and work effortlessly.

He had explained everything to his mother, sitting her down and finally telling the truth—about Jina, about you, and about the part she played in your separation. It had been difficult to admit, but he couldn’t hide from it anymore. His mother was one of the main reasons why your marriage had fallen apart, and for so long, he had shielded her from that truth. But now, things were different. He needed her to understand that his relationship with you was no longer just about the two of you—it was about Jina.

To his surprise, his mother had listened quietly, her face drawn and serious. She had taken the news with more grace than he’d expected, though he knew it wasn’t easy for her. When he asked for her understanding and support moving forward, she had nodded, albeit hesitantly. The wounds were still fresh, but at least they were out in the open now.

Jina, unaware of all the complexity around her, was the glue that kept things light. She had no idea what her parents were going through emotionally, and for that, Joshua was grateful. All she saw was that both her parents were around more and that they were starting to act like a family again. One night at dinner, she had blurted out, "I love it when we’re all together!" Her bright smile and simple joy hit Joshua right in the heart, making everything feel worth it.

It wasn’t long before you and Joshua found yourselves sharing a bed again—not out of any sudden romantic resurgence, but because Jina wanted it that way. She had insisted that the three of you sleep in the same room, piling up her blankets and toys in your bed. Joshua had been nervous at first, wondering if this step would complicate things between you two. But Jina, being the little whirlwind that she was, had no idea of her parents' internal struggles.

What made it easier—what turned the nerve-wracking into something sweet—was Jina’s newfound love for counting. Every night, before bed, she would proudly count to twenty, her voice a mix of concentration and excitement.

“One… two… three…” she would begin, and Joshua and you would both have to follow along, pretending to be as invested as she was. By the time she reached twenty, Jina would cheer, pleased with her accomplishment, and only then would she allow herself to settle down, curling up between you both.

As Joshua lay there, the warmth of Jina’s tiny body nestled against him, he couldn’t help but feel like life was starting to come together. It wasn’t perfect, and there were still a lot of unspoken things between you and him, but for now, this small routine, this quiet moment with Jina, was enough to keep him going. It was the family life he’d always wanted, and he was willing to take it one step at a time, hoping that eventually, everything else would fall into place too.

*

Joshua was in the middle of an important meeting when his other secretary stepped into the conference room, catching his main secretary’s attention with an urgent signal. Joshua noticed the subtle exchange but didn’t think much of it until his main secretary quietly approached him, phone in hand, his expression grave.

“Sir,” he whispered, “your daughter has been rushed to the hospital.”

Joshua’s heart stopped. Without a second thought, he abruptly ended the meeting and rushed out, his mind racing as he made his way to the hospital.

When he arrived, he spotted you standing motionless in front of the ICU, your eyes locked on Jina, who was lying weakly on the hospital bed, her small body surrounded by machines. The sight made his breath catch in his throat.

“What happened?” Joshua’s voice was thick with fear as he approached you, but you didn’t immediately respond. You looked distant, as if the weight of the situation had drained all the life from you.

Around you, the family had gathered—your secretary, your brother Seungcheol, and your mother, all wearing similar expressions of dread. It felt suffocating.

“Where’s Minji?” Joshua asked about Jina's nanny, his voice sharper than intended. His mind was racing, trying to grasp any detail that might help him understand the situation.

“She’s been dismissed for a week,” you mumbled, your voice barely audible. You turned and glanced at your mother, who silently pulled you into a tight embrace.

Joshua’s heart clenched with confusion and fear. “What’s happening?” he asked, turning to Seungcheol, desperate for answers.

Seungcheol hesitated, his eyes filled with sadness. “Her heartbeat dropped.”

Joshua felt like the ground had been ripped out from under him. His pulse roared in his ears. The words didn’t seem real. His little girl, who was so full of life just hours ago, was now fighting to survive.

The doctor appeared, asking for both parents to step forward. Joshua moved on autopilot, standing beside you as the doctor spoke.

“I’m afraid Jina’s condition is critical,” the doctor said gravely. “Her lungs have collapsed, and their function has been decreasing over time. We are doing everything we can, but...” He paused, his expression pained. “You need to prepare for the worst.”

The room seemed to close in on Joshua. He glanced at you, your face pale and expression blank, as though you hadn’t quite processed the enormity of the situation. He wanted to reach out, to hold you, to reassure you—maybe even reassure himself—but he felt paralyzed by fear.

The weight of the doctor's words hung in the air, crushing, unforgiving. And for the first time in his life, Joshua felt completely powerless.

*

"You knew about this." Joshua's voice cut through the heavy silence as you stepped into the house after the funeral.

Everything had happened so fast. In just eight hours, you lost Jina forever. The world seemed to blur around you, every moment a haze of grief and disbelief.

You collapsed onto the couch, still in your black dress. Joshua sat on the floor in front of you, his suit rumpled, his tie undone, holding your hand tightly as if you were his last lifeline. His eyes searched yours, filled with sorrow and something close to desperation. "Did you know this was going to happen?" he asked, his voice a whisper but laden with the weight of his pain.

You couldn’t meet his gaze at first, the tears spilling down your cheeks for what felt like the hundredth time that day. Even though you had expected this, even though you had imagined it in your worst nightmares every night for weeks, it still felt impossible. How could Jina be gone?

Slowly, you nodded, your breath hitching as you tried to speak. "Since the surgery," you choked out between sobs. You lowered your head, resting it on your knees, while Joshua’s head dropped into your hand, both of you clinging to the last vestiges of each other as the world fell apart.

"Why didn’t you tell me?" he whispered, his voice cracking. "Why didn’t you let me prepare?"

"I couldn’t," you replied, the words barely making it out through your tears. "I couldn’t bear to say it out loud... not to you."

Joshua’s grip on your hand tightened as his body shook with silent sobs. "So you’ve been counting down to this day?" His voice was raw, filled with disbelief and heartache.

You nodded again, unable to stop the flood of tears. "Everything I did... was for her. I didn’t want to burden you with the truth, not when there was a chance..." Your words trailed off into the weight of your grief.

For a long moment, you both sat there, entwined in each other's pain, crying for the daughter you loved more than anything, for the future that was now gone, for the emptiness that Jina's absence left behind.

Joshua's head rested against your hand, and for once, you let yourself cry together with him, no walls, no shields, just the raw and unrelenting agony of loss. There were no words that could fix this, no actions that could bring her back.

You still remembered the moment the doctor delivered the devastating news. Jina’s condition was worsening rapidly, her lungs failing. "She needs a donor immediately," the doctor had said, his expression grave. "But even with a donor, her body won’t recover more than 50%. It would only extend her life by a few months."

Those words had shattered you. But instead of collapsing under the weight of grief, you had shifted into survival mode, planning out every detail. You formulated a plan, almost like a business pitch in your head—asking Joshua to be the donor for Jina and ensuring that her last months were spent together as a family.

You approached Joshua on the day he found out about Jina, masked in calmness, hiding your desperation. You asked him to be the donor, and to your relief, he agreed without hesitation. Everything seemed to fall into place—Joshua moved back in, you created a life that felt, for once, complete. But all the while, you knew time was ticking.

Seungcheol had been the one to snap you out of your delusions, his blunt words slapping reality into you. "You need to accept that Jina wants to live a full life with both of her parents," he had said, his voice firm but understanding. "She deserves that. You both do."

That was when you accepted Joshua’s offer to move in together. You knew it wasn’t just for Jina—it was for you too. Jina’s happiness in her final days became your only priority. You spent your days like a family, and for everyone else, it looked like a dream come true. But every passing moment felt like walking through hell for you, knowing that Jina’s time was running out.

Every night, after you put Jina to bed and Joshua retreated to his room, you would sit in the darkness and cry, trying to hold on to every precious second. You could feel the inevitability of her leaving you, and yet you couldn’t bring yourself to tell Joshua the truth about how close the end really was.

Jina had been happy. She got the life she wanted, with her two parents by her side, filling her days with laughter and love. But for you, it was a torturous countdown. Every tick of the clock reminded you that this family, this life, would soon shatter.

You held it together for her. You played the role, smiled through the pain, and made sure Joshua never suspected how deep your sorrow ran. And now, sitting in the empty house, that silence pressed down on you. You had given Jina everything you could, but the ache of her absence was more than you could bear.

After Jina’s passing, the house was cloaked in an oppressive silence. The once lively and joy-filled rooms now seemed hollow, echoing with the absence of her laughter. You found Joshua in the kitchen, his face drawn and tired. He had been trying to hold everything together, for Jina and for you, but the weight of loss had become too heavy to bear alone.

You approached him quietly, a lump in your throat. "Joshua," you began softly, your voice trembling, "the role of being Jina's parent... it’s over now. We both did everything we could for her, and she’s no longer with us."

Joshua’s eyes filled with pain, but he nodded slowly. "I know. It’s just hard to let go."

"I understand," you said, feeling the sting of tears behind your eyes. "But now it’s time for us to return to who we were before all of this began. We have to face reality."

Joshua’s gaze was distant, as if he was still trying to process everything. "And what about us? What do we do now?"

The heaviness in the room was almost suffocating as you stood there, Joshua’s hand still in yours. His grip tightened, as though he could feel something slipping away.

“There’s no ‘us’ in the present, Joshua,” you said softly, pulling your hand away. Your voice was steady, but the words felt like sharp edges, cutting through the fragile connection that had formed between you both in the past few months. "No ‘us’ without Jina."

Joshua blinked, his face crumpling slightly as the truth of your words hit him. “But we’ve been—”

“There’s no point in pretending,” you interrupted, your voice wavering but firm. “Everything we did, everything we built these last few months... it was for Jina. Now that she’s gone, there’s nothing holding us together anymore.”

Joshua stood still, his breath catching as he looked at you, a storm of emotions brewing behind his eyes. “I love you, Y/n,” he confessed, his voice thick with desperation. “I’ve never stopped loving you. I can't stop loving you.”

You froze, his words like an old wound being torn open. You looked down at the floor, the weight of his love too heavy, too late. The silence between you was deafening, and for a moment, it felt like time had stopped.

Finally, you looked up, meeting his eyes with a sadness you couldn’t mask. “I lost my sense to love you the same again when you told me to leave years ago, Joshua,” you said quietly, each word carrying the weight of the past. “When you pushed me away, that’s when it all broke. And I don’t think I can find that part of myself again.”

Joshua’s face crumpled with guilt and regret, his shoulders sagging as he absorbed the truth. “I didn’t mean to... I was scared, I was confused—”

“I know,” you cut him off, your voice gentle but firm. “But it doesn’t change what happened. We can’t undo the pain we caused each other. We’ve both lost so much. I don’t have the strength to go back and try to fix us.”

Tears welled up in his eyes, but he didn’t move, didn’t try to argue. He just nodded slowly, as though he had finally accepted the truth that had been looming over both of you.

"I wish things could be different," Joshua whispered.

“So do I,” you whispered back, the finality of your words settling in the air between you.

Joshua watched the video in silence, his hands trembling slightly as he held the phone. The screen flickered with a memory that wasn’t his own, but one that pierced through his heart like a knife. The video showed you recording Jina on the beach during a sunny weekend. Her small hands sifted through the golden sand, her laughter ringing out like a melody against the backdrop of crashing waves.

Your voice came through the speakers, bright and warm, filled with an unmistakable love. “Are you happy, Jina?” you asked, the camera focusing on her tiny face lit up with joy.

Jina giggled, a sound so innocent and pure that it felt like a balm and a wound all at once. “I’ve never been this happy, Mom!” she exclaimed, tossing sand into the air in celebration.

Joshua couldn’t help but smile faintly at her enthusiasm, but his chest tightened as the moment unfolded.

Then came her next words—words that felt like a punch to the gut. “I could’ve died!” Jina declared, her small arms flailing dramatically.

Your voice faltered in the video, turning hoarse as you gently scolded her. “Don’t say that, Jina. It’s not a nice word.”

The weight in your tone was evident, even through the recording, and Joshua felt it too—a mixture of fear, protectiveness, and sorrow.

On the screen, Jina’s expression softened, and she stared directly at the camera, her small lips forming a pout. “Sorry,” she mumbled, her voice small and sincere.

Joshua felt his tears begin to fall, hot and unchecked, as he watched her. The sight of her—the way she wrinkled her nose in apology, her innocent smile shining like the sun—was too much to bear.

“I’m just so happy with you and Daddy here that I think I could’ve died,” Jina added, her voice brighter now, as if she wanted to reassure you. Then she raised her tiny hand as if making a solemn vow. “But I promise I won’t actually die, Mom!”

Joshua’s vision blurred as the tears came harder, streaking his face and dripping onto his hands. He pressed a hand over his mouth, trying to stifle the sob that threatened to escape, but it was no use.

On the screen, Jina beamed at the camera, her small frame outlined by the golden rays of the sun. She was radiant, alive, and so full of promise.

“Jina,” Joshua whispered, his voice breaking. His little angel. His light. The realization hit him like a tidal wave—she had found her home, her happiness, her peace. And yet, he was still strayed, lost in a storm of his own making.

The video ended, but the sound of her laughter lingered in his mind, echoing like a prayer.

*

"I can raise her alone," you insisted, your voice steady but filled with underlying desperation. You were sitting across from Seungcheol in the quiet of your dimly lit living room. It was late, but the weight of the conversation felt heavier than the silence of the night.

Seungcheol, ever pragmatic, leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees. “Yes, you can,” he said, his tone measured but firm. “But are you really going to ignore what the doctor said? Jina needs a donor as soon as possible, Y/n. There’s no one else—only her father.”

Your heart sank at his words, the weight of the truth pressing down on you like a boulder. “He hurt me,” you whispered, your voice cracking. The memories of Joshua’s rejection and the pain he left you with resurfaced, raw and unhealed.

Seungcheol’s expression softened, and without hesitation, he stood and walked over to you. Gently, he pulled you into his arms, his embrace warm and steady. “I know,” he murmured, his chin resting lightly on top of your head. “I know he hurt you. But he’s still her father, Y/n. And right now, Jina needs him. That’s the only way to save her.”

Tears welled up in your eyes as the magnitude of the situation hit you. For a long moment, you let yourself lean into Seungcheol’s support, the sound of his heartbeat steadying your own chaotic thoughts. His words lingered, piercing through your pain: This is the only way.

After what felt like hours but was likely only a few minutes, you pulled back and nodded. “Okay,” you said quietly, your voice trembling but resolute. “Let’s do it. Prepare whatever I need to get this started.”

Seungcheol’s face brightened with determination. “Good,” he said firmly, already moving into action. He reached into his bag and pulled out a folder, handing it to you. “Here’s everything you need. I’ll coordinate the rest. I’ve already asked Chan to assist you during this time. I’ll brief him myself.”

Your gaze fell on the cover of the folder, and the bold letters stared back at you like a challenge: The Hong Joshua Project.

It felt clinical, impersonal even, but you knew this was no ordinary task—it was the fight for Jina’s life. You flipped through the pages, scanning the meticulous plans Seungcheol had outlined, and you felt a surge of gratitude for him. He had always been there, a constant source of strength and clarity in your life.

Seungcheol placed his hands firmly on your shoulders, grounding you. “Listen to me, Y/n,” he said, his eyes locked on yours. “This is going to be hard. A very hard journey. You’ll need to push aside your emotions, your pride, and everything else you’re feeling—for Jina’s sake. But I promise you, I’ll be right here. I’ve got your back, just like I always have.”

You nodded, swallowing the lump in your throat. Memories of all the times Seungcheol had stepped in to support you flooded your mind. He wasn’t just a brother— he was a bestfriend, family, a lifeline, and you knew you could trust him with anything.

“Thank you,” you whispered, your voice filled with sincerity. “For everything.”

Seungcheol smiled faintly, his grip on your shoulders tightening briefly in reassurance. “Now,” he said, stepping back and gesturing to the folder in your hands, “this project starts today. Let’s save her.”

And with those words, the weight of the task ahead settled over you. It wasn’t going to be easy—nothing about this would be. But for Jina, for the little girl who was your entire world, you would endure anything. Even if it meant facing the man who had broken your heart.

[sweetiesicheng]

seventeen - secret

joshua x reader

word count : 1,494

-

"is that y/n?" you turn around and see some of your brother's friends stopping in the middle of the sidewalk when they notice you.

"you're all dressed up," seungcheol comments, noticing your outfit.

"uh, i'm going out," you mention and put your lip gloss in your bag.

"going on a date?” mingyu immediately fires questions at you. "with who? does wonwoo know?"

you roll your eyes, "does my brother need to know everything? do you guys need to know everything? geez." you turn away and start walking down the block.

the trio stay where they are and watch you. "should we tell wonwoo?" mingyu asks seungcheol and seokmin.

"i wanna see who she is going on a date with," seokmin replies as he untwists the top to a drink he had bought at the convenience store a few minutes prior. "you guys wanna come with?" he asks before taking a sip.

"as long as you don't yap and blow our cover. one of you text and say we aren't going to the court," seungcheol replies.

"let's wait here for a second before following her," mingyu says and takes his phone out of his pocket. "i'm texting wonwoo."

"y/n is gonna kill you if she finds out that you're the one who told wonwoo," seokmin says to him.

"what if the guy is a total dickhead?" mingyu replies as he texts in a group chat. "okay, texted wonwoo," he says.

seungcheol looks down the block and no longer sees y/n. "hey, ask wonwoo if he has y/n's location. we might lose her," he says before jogging away. seokmin and mingyu follow seungcheol down the block.

seungcheol makes it to the end of the block and looks around to see y/n already across the street. she walks down a street with her phone in hand and a smile on her face.

"didn't she reject someone recently? maybe she's had a secret boyfriend!" seokmin suggests as they start walking down the street, opposite to the sidewalk y/n is walking on.

"secret boyfriend? she's really bad at keeping secrets," mingyu says, "remember when she spoiled your's and vernon's birthday party?"

"vernon didn't even remember that she spoiled it," seokmin reminds him.

seungcheol laughs, "that was funny though."

"guys, the group chat is blowing up," mingyu says as he looks at his phone. suddenly, seungcheol grabs the back of his shirt to hold mingyu back from crossing the street. "oh shit, thanks."

"what's everyone saying?" seungcheol asks.

mingyu looks at the multitude of texts that keep coming in. not everyone has texted so far, but the guys are surprised at y/n going on a secret date with someone.

"they can't believe it. wonwoo says that y/n hasn't said anything," mingyu says.

seungcheol looks up, "keep walking," he instructs all of them and they do so.

seokmin stays in the front and looks for y/n across the street, making sure she's visible. seungcheol reads off of mingyu's phone.

—

"no wonder," wonwoo says as he reads the text messages on his phone.

jeonghan shoots a basketball and it goes through the net, making a bit of a swish noise. "no wonder what?" he asks and starts walking across the court to grab his basketball.

"y/n has been locking herself in her room at home. our brother tried to go in there once, and y/n practically screamed at him," wonwoo replies.

soonyoung looks back at wonwoo, who sits on a higher bleacher. "doesn't she always do that?" he asks. jeonghan walks to the bleachers and places his basketball down.

"i'm the one she usually yells at," wonwoo replies.

"who do you think she's on a date with? someone in her grade?" jeonghan asks.

"who is in her class?" soonyoung asks.

"not me," jeonghan replies. "joshua and seungcheol are in the same class. they would be the only ones she could be in class with.”

"clubs?" soonyoung asks.

"she isn't in a club this year," wonwoo answers, "that's why she got the reception job."

vernon suddenly sits up from the bleacher he was laying on, "i think it's another senior," he says.

all of them look at vernon. "you're awake?" jeonghan asks.

"oh, i was watching a movie, but the texts messages kept blowing my phone up," vernon answers while pointing at his phone.

soonyoung looks at wonwoo, "should we meet up with seungcheol and them and find out where y/n is going?" he asks.

wonwoo raises an eyebrow, "i don't want to get killed by my own sister today."

"it'll be fun!" soonyoung says to him. "maybe everyone can meet up. it's like hidden camera."

"this sounds like a movie," vernon speaks up.

soonyoung points at vernon, "exactly what i was thinking."

"i don't think the others are coming to the court anytime soon. we might as well meet up with them," jeonghan says.

wonwoo sighs, "alright, let's go."

—

chan laughs while looking at his phone. "guys, this is funny!" he says to his friends.

minghao is at a counter paying for snacks with jihoon right behind him. junhui is still somewhere in the convenience store, trying to find his favorite drink. seungkwan looks at chan's phone.

"should we go too?" chan asks.

seungkwan shakes his head, "we need to go to practice."

"but the others left the court already," chan replies. minghao approaches them, "hyung, should we meet with the others?"

"and follow y/n around? is that even a good idea?" minghao asks, handing the plastic bag of snacks to chan.

"the others are going," chan mentions.

minghao shrugs, "i guess we can. i doubt anyone else is going to the court now.”

"where we going?" jihoon asks as he joins the group.

"to find y/n and find out who she's dating," seungkwan answers.

"jun! hurry up," minghao calls out.

junhui stands in front of a fridge with his arms crossed. then, he opens a door and grabs a drink. he goes to the front and pays for the drink before joining the guys.

"where are we going now?" junhui asks as all of them leave the store.

"meeting up with the guys. everyone wants to figure out who y/n is going on a date with," minghao answers.

"we're gonna look like stalkers," jihoon says with a sigh.

"or we could be saving her from a creep," chan says. "well, that's what mingyu keeps saying," he adds while looking at his phone.

—

joshua sits on a stone fence outside of a local park. with his phone in hand, he reads through the text messages that keep coming in.

“i guess it isn’t that obvious,” joshua says to himself as he reads the text messages. he gets an individual text from minghao but doesn’t reply as he keeps reading incoming messages in the group chat.

"josh!"

he looks up and sees you walking towards him. before you reach him, joshua stands up and puts his phone in his jacket pocket.

"hey," joshua greets when you reach him.

"hi," you reply with a smile. "ready to go?" you ask him.

"yea," he says and reaches to hold your hand. "did you walk over here okay?" he asks as you two start walking into the park.

"it was fine. i saw seokmin, mingyu, and seungcheol on my way over. they were trying to get into my business again," you mention, ending with a huff.

"yea...about that..."

"huh? what?"

—

"it says she's here," wonwoo says as he looks at his phone screen. he uses his other hand to block the sunlight away so he can see the screen better.

"i don't see her," chan says while looking around.

"what do you think you're doing?"

all of the guys turn around to see y/n standing a few feet away from the guys. she stands there with her arms crossed.

"oh hey," wonwoo greets his sister.

y/n sighs, "would you guys like to meet my boyfriend?" you ask them.

"holy shit, she's actually dating someone?"

"since when do you have a boyfriend?"

"there's no way."

"um..." joshua walks over to the guys.

"oh, josh, there you are," vernon speaks. "we're going to meet y/n’s boyfriend," he mentions.

"i wonder how handsome he is," soonyoung wonders.

"y/n has standards," jihoon says.

"guys," joshua calls to them to get their attention, "i am the boyfriend," he says to them.

all of them look at joshua. "what?" seungcheol asks.

"i am y/n's boyfriend," joshua repeats.

you walk to joshua and hold his hand. "okay people. now you know who he is, so stop stalking me," you say to them. "let's go," you say to joshua.

he nods, "yea." he looks at the guys, "sorry guys, gonna have to miss practice," he says to them before you two start walking away.

the guys watch you two walk through the park. everyone stands in disbelief.

"what...what just happened?" junhui asks.

[yyawnjun]

BUTTONS

seventeen!95'lines × reader (separately)

summary: according to an ancient story, the greatest way to confess to the girl you love is to give her the top button of your uniform. Knowing thus tradition, here's how I think S.coups, Jeonghan and Joshua would confess their love.

comments, like and reblogs are always greatly appreciated. I hope y'all will like it ♡

high school romance ; fluff!! ; 2.6k wc ; I am so weak for them 😭 ; @kflixnet ; pt2

thank u so much to my fav girl @sobun1est for proofreading this (she deserves the world AND a confession by S.coups asap !!)

CHOI SEUNGCHEOL [ 최승철 ]

Choi Seungcheol. The school slacker. The first time you heard his name was when the science teacher begged you to help him with his finals. He needed help in all scientific subjects, such as math, physics, bio, and chemistry… but from what was said, he was considered hopeless. The first time you met him, he was wearing a pajama - because he refused to “be like the others” wearing the uniform - and kept chewing gum while listening to music while you were trying your best to help him with his math homework.

From that very first moment, you understood why everyone thought he was considered a desperate case. In the first week, he did not listen to you at all, not even glancing at you, he had arrived late and left after less than an hour.

Over time he started to look at you and listen to you. He started to admire your patience, your passion, your focused look as you wrote, your clear voice as you explained, your optimism, and your kind heart...

At the same time, you also started to become attached to him when he first showed the will to improve his situation. Indeed after a week, he bought his first pencil, after two weeks he bought a schoolbag, and after a month he even had a collector with all of the subjects - it was quite well organized at the end of the third month.

His appearance improved during those months: his eyes appeared less tired, his hair wasn't greasy anymore, and he even wore half of the uniform.

On Monday, the results of the final exams had just arrived. It was 9 a.m. - still very early, as they would not display the result posters until 11 a.m. - when your science teacher called you with Seungcheol.

You both came out of your respective classes and as soon as you arrived in front of the teacher, she almost started tearing up with happiness at the news she wanted to announce to you. S.coups, as you had learned to call him by now, had passed all his exams. These were the exact words spoken to you by the professor. She almost jumped up and hugged you, but you were more focused on the proud smile that adorned your friend's face. Indeed by now, you were friends.

After hearing the news, to celebrate you opted to go for a bite to eat at the café near the school after class. That café where you first met when it all started is now filled with your happy chatter.

Having the time to be with him for more hours on that day, you were able to notice so many other details of the new S.coups. He had a rested face, a lot of energy in his speech, brighter eyes, and even an almost complete uniform - he had promised you that he would wear it perfectly only on the last day of school. After some time, he also managed to thank you from the bottom of his heart, and you to gain more confidence in your teaching abilities.

So, the last day of school had arrived, the last goodbyes, hugs, chats, and farewells before the end. But on that very full day, you had by no means forgotten your promise.

In fact, after saying goodbye to your friends, you moved to look for the boy. Thirty minutes had now passed, but nothing. You were about to give un helieving that you had overemphasized what had been between you. You turned to leave until a deep, masculine voice came to your ears that you now knew very well from hearing him repeat all the rules possible and imaginable.

You turned and saw him in all his glory. The sun was shining on his face, and his hair styled with was barely moving in the wind. His eyes were smiling, and he was still shouting your name to indicate his location. Only when he was closer, did you notice that he was wearing his uniform.

His eyes and chest were filled with pride, his smile was proud, and his happiness was more alive than ever. After a quick hug, he pointed out his uniform to you - emphasizing how uncomfortable it was and how much he had done it for you. With dreamy eyes, you stared into his eyes, and he accepted the challenge. Time and space around you appeared still, it was only you and him. But shortly, your eye was drawn to a detail in his clothing. A button was missing from his clothing, the first one from the top, and it was clear that it had been detached.

He noticed the movement of your gaze and your puzzlement. But before you could say anything, he had put the missing button in front of your face. As if to prevent you from doubting him and his promises to you.

"I read that giving the first button of one's uniform to the loved girl is a way of confession," he told you.

"Oh, your romantic side," and before you could ask him any more questions, he shushed you for the second time - like he used to do proudly when he explained the lesson he had learned because of you.

"Here, this is for you," he said handing you the button.  In the end, he kept his promise: he was in his perfect (uni)form, wearing his school uniform and demonstrating his love to you.

YOON JEONGHAN [ 윤정한 ]

Yoon Jeonghan was taller than you, his eyes were brown as hazelnut and his hair black as ebony, his skin was flawless and his smile was always feeble. Although his sneaky character did not match his angel and kind appearance. From the teacher’s point of view, he was the perfect, smart, and angelic student. To everyone, he was the popular, handsome, and cocky boy. To you, he was something more.

You two had many classes together during high school, and you managed to learn more about him. Even if you did not speak much to him, you caught another side of him. Behind his angel appearance and presumptuous acting was a gentle boy. That gentle boy that made you lose your mind for him. You noticed once how he helped a guy who was being bullied or another time when he stayed until 11 pm in the library to help a girl with her math homework. 

So time passed and he quickly became your crush, someone you would always look at and admire from afar. You can’t say that he did not like attention, because he did. But he liked them only when they focused on the things he wanted - like his appearance, his carelessness, his intelligence. He did not want to expose too much of his kind side and you always wondered why,  and the more you knew about him the more you started to like him.

One-side love, mh? That was what you kept reminding yourself while observing him from afar. Many gorgeous girls and boys liked him openly, but he always ended up rejecting them; so you chose to stay silent and watch him from afar.

On one hand, it was nice to have someone to romanticize, someone to think about before bed, or when you needed to cheer up. But immediately after that comfortable feeling, a melancholy one showed up. But it's the one-sided love, isn't it?

So the years passed, you changed, and your crush on him got stronger. Until the last days before the end of high school. When you found yourself, on the last Monday in high school, on a fresh summer night - instead of studying - focusing on the choice of the words for the anonymous letter you would have given to him tomorrow.

He did not want to expose too much of his kind side and you always wondered why,  and the more you knew about him the more you started to like him.You closed it at 10 am before putting it in his lock. As soon as you did, a huge weight lifted from your consciousness, making room for another.

He had seen you secretly place something in his locker. Because after you put the letter Jeonghan saw you, YN.

Yn, the one who won his heart since his freshman year of high school. The one who had been on his mind for years, and as much as he didn't want it, the heart decided on its own.  He instinctively came closer to see what it was, but you quickly moved away. After a week, you went from wanting to confess to wanting to die to hide your feelings for him. 

Your week was no different from his. Until Friday, the last day of school. Your heart lightened when all the exams - and the high school years with them - were over. The day was going beautifully, and you had stopped one last time to look at your - now ex-school. The others had slowly left, it was late afternoon, and you would have to go soon too. So many memories mixed with laughter and tears, so many regrets mixed with victories and disappointments.

Lost in your thoughts, you did not notice that he reached you. You were startled when someone patted your shoulder. He had arrived in silence, and without speaking he made so much noise in your heart that it started beating wildly. You looked at him awkwardly... since the day he saw you put the love letter into his locker, you had only given each other fleeting glances.

He kept not saying a word and looked down at his uniform. The sound of the button being detached from the uniform was the first sound you had heard since his arrival. Still, in disbelief, you didn't move.  He took your hand and placed the button in it.

He smiled at you, with the faint smile of him - the one that you loved so intensely - with those hazel eyes that had drawn you, he patted your head, and without saying anything he turned to leave. Was this perhaps his way of confessing… Wait, was he confessing?

Your surprised look was replaced by a huge smile, and your heart kept beating rapidly - but not anymore only for the love tension, now even for the exhaustion of running as you chased him, demanding answers, confessions, and maybe something more...

HONG JISOO [ 홍지수 ]

Everyone knew who Hong Jisoo was. Everyone called him Joshua, and he was known as one of the nicest and kindest boys at school.  However, he was so kind that people easily took advantage of him. Starting with occasional help with English homework, solving math problems, and planning for free private lessons several times per week.

Initially, he was happy that he could help everyone and was flattered when girls came to him with long letters that showed to be a mix of a confession of love and thanks for the school's help.

However, the more he gave of himself to others, the less of himself left. Joshua was gradually wearing himself out. He was so focused on others that he had forgotten about himself.

He thought about this for the first time as he left for school, with music in his ears as he finished tying up his uniform. Just as he was about to do so, he realized it was missing again the top button. The one that was meant to be given to the girl he loved. Instead, someone stole it for him when he had left his uniform in class for PE class.

It was the third time that week, but he had gradually accepted it because he didn't know who was responsible. He kept reminding himself that school would be over in a week. He could bear with it, right? So he arrived at school, greeted everyone with his usual cheerful smile, and sat down. Resigned that he would be without a button for one more day.

Or so he thought. In his underbench was a rosy cloth tissue, with a brand-new button inside and a small note saying: Take care of yourself.

The gesture made him smile immensely and soothed his troubled soul. Who on earth could it have been? Who on earth could have noticed what had happened to him?

And as his curiosity increased, so did your beats as you watched him bask in the happiness of having found your gift for him. Indeed, you had long noticed how much he was a victim of others' exploitation. 

And once, after you had asked him who his love was - referring to the missing button - he had told you that someone had even taken the button off his uniform.

Since then you began to feel closer to that boy, who appeared perfect and cheerful from a distance. And you had decided to help him secretly and from a distance.  And you realized that was great; seeing him happy after finding the button had already brightened your day.

The day had gone by swiftly, and you had exchanged a few words with him as usual. He had been gentle as always and proudly wore the button given to him.

The daily hour of PE arrived, and for the fourth time, his button was stolen.

This time it hurt him a bit more because it was a gift; you could see a blank expression on his face, a dull grin, and a suppressed anger with clenched teeth. That day he returned home earlier than everyone.

But the next day - the last day of school - you put for the second time a button on a pink tissue for him. “I am on your side; take care of yourself!” That was the new note you'd left on his desk.

As soon as he saw it, he hurried back to the school tailor's class and sewed it tightly to his uniform with a needle and thread.

Because it was the last day of school, you were both happy with the end of the tests, and your day went well until the last hour. You did not do PE, so you stayed in class and napped on your desk. 

You did it to rest but also tried to catch the button thief in the act. It had been a few minutes since you heard the classroom door open and saw who had come. You quickly took a picture, scaring the thief away, but the robbery had already happened, and the button was missing again. Anger welled up in your veins after Joshua's button was stolen for the umpteenth time.

Without thinking about it, you pulled off the first button on your uniform, and with the sewing kit you always carried with you, you put it on his uniform. 

Just in time for when your classmates returned to class.

You knew it was a button from the girl's uniform, but you hoped that he would not pay too much attention to it. And so it seemed, for he had said nothing and had only put his uniform back on.

So high school had ended, and you were heading home free of stress and negative feelings. When you heard someone call out your name. 

You stopped and turned around; it was Joshua. He was running toward you waving his hand. "There's something I want to give you." He told you as he caught his breath after catching up with you.

"I think you know the legend of the button given to the loved one - and you nodded as your heart rate grew, was this what you thought was going on? - Here. Here it is the button as an act of my love and gratitude for your kindness, which quietly brightened my day."

With that said, he approached your face and very carefully began stitching up the missing button on your uniform with one of his own.

On a pleasant summer day, you two confessed your love with a button exchange, hand in hand, and excitement in your heart.

[tusswrites]

Some Nights (h.j)

🫢pairing: hong joshua x reader

🫢synopsis: when laundry day takes a turn for the worse—fast

🫢genre: fluff, crack; rating: 16+

🫢word count: 1.7k+ (supposed drabble whoops)

🫢warnings: mentions of death, but it's not that serious (sorry to whoever died in the fic, you were there just for the plot) T.W: self-harm mentions, but reader misread the situation okay? nothin happened fr.

🫢a.n. : I was upset I didn't have a Joshua fic, but apparently a small dig into my trove and I had an old fic I never thought would see the light of the day, because it was a private fic to shu @welcometomyoasis . Anyway it does see the light on his birthday so HAPPY BIRTHDAY Joshua. See you down south for more notes.

check out the masterlist here!

Pedal to the metal, your mind whirs out the last few days of conversation, pulling out each molecule of the word that you’ve exchanged with him, trying to come up with some memory to nail his soon-to-be fatal. action. What could drive him to the ledge on this starry night you think? A leviathan of worry has blossomed from deep within, your mind cannot rest till you reach him right this instant. 

“Pick up. Pick up. Why are you not picking up, Hong Joshua?” It’s unlike him to avoid your calls. You were his priority; there’s never been a moment you’ve doubted that. His phone could only be unlocked with your face—much like parts of him were hidden away, only you were able to fathom what he truly felt. When his hums turned noncommittal, when the nods lost fervor, and when the smile ceased to reach his eyes, you knew it was time for lockdowns in the apartment. You and he, paired out in couple pajamas, matching each other's quirks in absurd face masks and cucumbers, binging reruns of The Real Housewives.

“I wish that this all would end” What would end? Is this what it’ll trickle down to? Were your movie nights pointless? Did prancing around in matching oversized tees and going pantless, holding concerts in the kitchen with spatulas as microphones mean nothing to him at all? Where did this even start for it to end like this?

 “I could use some friends for a change”

Is that what this is? Has he gotten into a kerfuffle with his bandmates? Did the recent rumors and blatant lies spread by the press cause rifts between his friends? And what about you? Did his random middle-of-the-night calls from a foreign country because he couldn’t fall asleep without hearing your sweet voice, (never mind the fact that you were time zones away) mean nothing to him? 

“I'm scared you'll forget me again” For that, you wanna smack right across his face hopefully slapping the stupid away in a blatant show of violence. How could anyone ever forget him? How could he ever think you would forget him? Doesn’t he know he’s etched in your heart forever? No man’s ever plowed this deep within the minefield of your heart, bringing to light parts of you that you feared would be a bother. Time and time again, he’s made you understand that you were never a bother to him, that he truly loves you, why else would he entertain your silly dissections at the ass crack of dawn?

 “I still see your ghost”

Now this is the part at which you had rattled, thinking no further to read more of the darned note, instead choosing to grab your keys and run to Pledis this very second, Hybe’s tight security be damned. The past few weeks were not easy on your boyfriend. A crazed fan had started a fabricated lie about Joshua and his ‘alleged’ girlfriend, and in no time he was under the scrutiny of the public eye. Protest trucks were sent to Hybe, stalkers greeted him at every corner during the late-night walks he took to cool off from the craziness he had to encounter in the day, the press was merciless and his fans betrayed his trust with malicious posts. You watch as the man you love becomes a shell of himself, doubting his every move, not even able to withstand making a silly joke or sparing some couple-times. You were every bit the understanding girlfriend

To top it all off with the scandal, he had lost his childhood best friend too. A tragic death that could have been avoided. Joshua blamed himself and his aloofness for his best friend's untimely decease even though you had reassured him that was not the case. Odd hours during the night he’d wake up crying, consoled only by you.He needed intimate proximity and tight hugs, you could get by that. When the outside world was tumultuous and the mind offered no peace to his turmoil, you’d crawl under his sweatshirt, greedily hogging up his body heat, comforting him, your head over his heart- another soul to listen to the racing beats reverberating the ones in his crazed mind. “I still see him and feel him, you know? It’s like he never left. His ghost follows me around wherever I go.” He’d confessed one night after waking up in a cold sweat jerking you violently awake. No amount of soothing words could dulcify him that night. You’d listened to him sob the night away gasping for deep breaths, curled up around your stomach.

 But that was a month back. You had forced him to go for grief counseling and slowly he was opening up, and getting better. The mirth in his eyes was slowly returning and you had hope that your boyfriend was feeling more of himself.

Except for today. You had caught onto a piece of paper that had flown out when you were whisking through his pant pockets while doing laundry. Words that had frozen you in place before kickstarting your flight response. Which is why you were here, pulled up in front of his dorms after a quick call with Jeonghan, owing to which you didn’t have to show up to Hybe. Without any words you barged into his room, thanking Hannie silently for the foresight to clear out the dorms letting you have your moment with Joshie. You are a little surprised to see him snoring on his bed as if he hadn’t just caused you a cardiac arrest. Unsure how to express your feelings—let alone with love instead of violence—you leap onto the bed and land on his stomach, knocking the breath right out of him. “Umph-” His eyes have widened into huge boba balls staring into your brown orbs as if you were a lunatic. Which, in hindsight you were. You did attack a sleeping person but you can explain yourself okay? With punches probably. “Y/N can you please- What is happe- Why am I- Is this a-” His words were slurred, sleep still hanging onto his droopy eyes but all the more befuddled at your crazy actions. Slowly you see his brain catching up to him trying to thwart your steady influx of punches.

“What the hell is going on” “I’ll tell you what the hell is going on Joshua Hong. It’s you and my poor heart. What am I going to do when you leave me to take care of my shattered heart. Didn’t you promise me forever? And now you choose to leave me? “When did I-?” “You think this is funny. Writing a suicide note and shocking-” “Suicide note?”

“Don’t try to act like you didn’t, making me look like a fool here.-” “Literally what the fu-” ‘You said to be ready for an engagement ring soon, we mapped the stars and painted out our children-” “Y/N love, would you please calm down?” His hand was placed over your palm effectively shutting you up and forcing you to stop yourself mid-rant. But your eyes worked just fine and so you sent out beams of anger waves at him “Alright let’s go one by one."

“What note?”

You thrust the creased-up tidbit to his awaiting hands, indignance written all over your face. You gaze inquisitively at your boyfriend of five years poring over his handwriting, reading whatever the hell he had written. Way too quick for you to catch up, you see his wrinkled brow straightening, only to furrow and deepen as he escaped into a cacophony of laughter. Was he laughing? At your misery? After what he had just done? Does he think this is a joke?

“Hong Joshua you better have an explanation for this or help me go-” “Baby, these are song lyrics” WHAT?? “Seriously, do these words not ring a bell to you?”

Snatching back the paper from his hand you read over the words one more time except this time from some part of your brain, music played and you held your breath as the lyrics of ‘Some Nights’ by Fun began to play in your head.

Well, some nights, I wish that this all would end

'Cause I could use some friends for a change

And some nights, I'm scared you'll forget me again

Some nights, I always win (I always win)

But I still wake up, I still see your ghost

Oh Lord, I'm still not sure what I stand for, oh-ohYou peer back up at your boyfriend who was trying his hardest to hide his grin. But he wasn’t the stronger soldier today because very quickly he began to guffaw, head thrown back- an arm around his chest clutching his pecs. You hate this cocky bastard.

“Aww baby, were you worried about me? “ “Asshole”

“Come on now, why are you lying? You came into this man cave you had sworn to never step foot into just because you were worried about me. Oh my God wait till Hannie finds out about this.” “Please don’t tell him. He’s never gonna stop teasing me.” You grumbled.

“Wow please? Means you are that mortified.” You say nothing. He is true. Once Jeonghan finds out the whole reason you had bribed him and the rest of the band with free dinner to hold an intervention was over a song lyric, you are never going to hear the end of it. “No baby, don’t look embarrassed. It’s cute that you care about me. I am truly touched. Come, we have some time to ourselves, what do you propose we do?” “Movie Night?” you ask softly. ‘Is that all you want?” “I am okay with anything as long as it’s with you.” You supply back to him.

“Aww I worried you quite a lot huh? You are never this nice.”

“You seem to be unsatisfied with the movie night proposition. Do you have any plans in mind?”

“Oh wow, she remembers her manners. Thank you for asking, baby. I was thinking, let’s do our skin care. I got some sample masks. And while our eyes are closed, let’s, I don’t know, listen to some music by Fun- Ahh I was kidding please stop attacking me. l take that back.”

Too late for that. He’s dying in your hands tonight.

-*-*-*-*-*-finished-*-*-*-*-*

A.N: Don’t kill me. Don’t kill me. Don’t kill me. Don’t kill me. Don’t kill me. Based on an irl story. Hehehe.

Comment below/ Send an ask to be added to the taglist.

@skzbangchanniee @ariananotgrandeee

Also, please listen to 'Some Nights' by Fun! Aju nice song it is 🫢!

[seokgyuu]

hello mitchie beloved 🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️ how abt joshua and consensual free use/somnophilia <3 i'm in dire straits rn and i actually need to get used by this man for his own pleasure 24/7 🫶 /hj

++ hugs and kisses for being one of the sweetest people ever actually !!

A/N: kai, my beloved! i hope this is to your liking! thanks for the request, i loved writing it!! sending you love and hugs and kisses back <3

PAIRING: Joshua x Fem!Reader

GENRE: Smut MDNI!

WARNINGS: free use/somnophilia, fingering, unprotected sex, degradation (usage of the word slut) creampie

WORDCOUNT: 1.4k

Request are open! Check out my 1k special!

Smut under the cut

the thought of your boyfriend using you for his own pleasure has always been one that extremely excited you. joshua was sweet, a true angel most of the time. funny and kind and always trying to make you feel good, to take care of your needs before his own. for the longest time you felt almost ashamed of wanting him to use you whenever he wanted, but at some point you decided that the worst thing that could happen would be him saying he wasn’t really into that. and you’d be fine because it wasn’t like your sex life wasn’t fulfilling enough. 

what you had not expected was him growing beet red, his eyes wide in something like shock when you tell him. he is baffled, speechless really. and it takes him a few minutes to regain his composure. you smile at him, caress his hand and reassure him that it is just a thought. he is not obligated to act on your wish if he doesn’t feel comfortable. when he asks you what exactly you mean when you say whenever he wants, your answer makes him swallow. it makes his cock twitch in his underwear. it makes his mind go wild with thoughts he normally wouldn’t allow himself to have. you were his princess, his everything, so precious and good. you deserved to be pampered, to be treated like a queen. never would he ever allow himself to… but now this. now you’re telling him you want him to use you and it begins a process in his brain. 

a few days go by and you think joshua might just not be into it. and you’re cool with that. you go through your day as you usually do until one evening you come home from work and joshua is sitting at the dining table with his laptop and work notes scattered around. he looks up at you when you enter the room and gets up, his ears as red as his face a few days ago.

“baby,” he begins, his hands finding your hips and he kisses you once, twice, before placing his forehead against yours. 

“josh, what is it?” you ask, worried, one of your hands cupping his cheek. he licks his lips.

“what we discussed the other day… about me and you and…,” he looks at you and you know what he means, a small smile on your lips as you nod.

“well i was thinking … do you- do you really mean it when you say i can use you when you’re asleep?” 

your eyebrows shoot up in surprise, but you are quick to nod. just the thought of it alone makes your cunt clench. 

“yes, honey, i mean it. i really… really would love for you to use me when i’m sleeping, or… any time at all, really. just want you to feel good, joshy.” 

your sultry voice and the way you look at him almost make him bend you over the table, doing as you wish right there. but there is still a report he needs to finish and so he just nods, kissing your cheek with a semi hard cock in his pants before sitting back down. 

he lays awake that night while you’re sound asleep. he had been worried you might not be able to sleep after what you’d discussed but here you are now. soft and cute snores proving you are really gone, one hand tucked under your cheek while the other lays flatly on the mattress. you are laying on your side, your backside turned to joshua and he contemplates. his cock has been hard for hours he feels. his heart is beating rapidly, even echoing in his ears and he thinks back to the words you had said a few days ago as well as tonight. you want him to use you. want him to feel good. so you would definitely be okay if he-

he finds himself pressed against your ass five seconds later. his cock is right there between your cheeks, still behind his boxers, but, god, does it feel good. he moans quietly, one hand moving to the front of you, touching your tit over your (his) sleep shirt. he wonders if your nipple will harden when you touch it. another moan escapes his throat when it does. he lets his hand slide underneath your shirt, thumb and index twirling your nipple, his cock growing even harder against your backside. he kisses the back of your neck, licks the spot underneath your ear and finally moves to touch you between your legs. 

joshua loves your pussy. loves it so much he literally can’t get enough of it. ever since your first conversation about this topic, he hadn’t touched you, so he’s a little scared of coming sooner than later. still, he feels your folds underneath your panties, letting a finger get coated in your juices to eventually push it inside, your tight walls clenching around him right away. he groans again, beginning to rock his hips against your ass, the friction making his eyes roll back. he ruts against you, free hand getting his cock out to actually feel your skin against his hard length and, fuck, it feels heavenly. he soon adds another finger, stretching your cunt open, letting it get adjusted before he’d finally sink into you and fuck you until he filled you to the brim. 

“so good for me even when asleep… my perfect princess,” he whispers, softly shoving you onto your stomach, leaving your cunt open for him to access. he licks his lips, lets his hand pump his cock a few times, before finally pulling out his fingers and replacing them with his leaking cock. 

the moan he lets out when he feels you around him almost wakes you up. just almost. your body reacts accordingly to what is happening - your pussy sucking him in as it always does, dripping onto the sheets as if your subconscious knows how fucking hot you find this. it probably does. joshua bottoms out, his hands are on either side of you, his hips rutting against your ass, cock now going in and out of your pussy in a speed that has him see stars. 

“f-fucking hell, such a good, perfect pussy, sh-shit,” he can’t keep his voice or his noises down and it doesn’t come as a surprise that you wake up with arousal shaking your whole body, all sleepiness gone within mere seconds. you cry out, your hands gripping the bed sheets as your cunt clenches around joshua’s cock over and over again.

“j-josh!” you whimper and he looks down at your face, sees your eyes staring at him, the hotness radiating from you. something inside of him shifts and his angelic demeanor disappears once and for all as he moves one hand to push your head into the mattress, his thrusts getting harder.

“such a slut, wants to get used like a toy doesn’t she? wants her cunt to be nothing but a cumrag, wants to wake up in the morning with it still dripping out of her, fuck,” he hears your cries against the mattress, feels you coming on his cock, the waves of pleasure almost getting him off the edge too.

“o-oh my god- j-josh, don’t stop!” you know there is more, know he can make you come at least one more time and joshua picks up his pace again, letting off your head and instead wrapping his arm around you to press his thumb down on your clit, your whole body jerking as you arch your back.

“what a good slut i got myself, such a good filthy slut, isn’t that right?” his eyes can’t stay open anymore, his hips moving at an uncontrollable speed and the second you cry out that, yes, you are nothing but a filthy slut, his cum shoots out his cock and into you, his moans music to your ears as he gets you over the edge once more, fucking the both of you through your orgasms. 

josh collapses on top of you, heavy breath against your ear and you feel sweat rolling down your forehead. your pussy is still pulsating around his softening cock and joshua jerks forward once again, kissing your neck.

“you’re incredible,” he mumbles against your skin and you chuckle, turning your head so you could see him a little better.

“i know,” you grin back and joshua laughs before pulling out of you and going back to his angelic self, walking to the bathroom to get you a warm wet cloth to clean yourself up.

[honeyhae-svt]

✧.*⑅˖♡On My Command MASTERLIST♡⁠˖⑅*⁠.⁠✧

LAZY EDIT

heya, heya, heya! aeya here!: I jus' want to let yk that requests are now open! Feel free to suggest and I will be writing it, hehehe. —bummer, no one wanna though.

My first ever story & series posted here on Tumblr! Yey! Promoting my Wattpad >w< @muuimihanmal_writes - The link is from Wattpad also posted by me ^^ but dw, if you dont have a Wattpad acc, just check the chapter down below!

On My Command

SEVENTEEN FANFICTION (Series)

AFAB!READER x SEVENTEEN - MNDI GENRE: Mafia, Businesses, Dark Romance, Smut, Gangs, RomCom, Action, Fem!Reader x Mafia!Seventeen, Baddie!Reader x Businessmen!Seventeen Status: ONGOING (stopped until someone convinces me to continue) ⚠️ WARNINGS ⚠️: Smut, Kissing, Oral Sex, Unprotected Sex (though some have), Mention of Birth Controls, Gunshots, Blood, Fingering, Squirting, Language, Manipulation, Fighting, Action, Pet Names, Size kinks. ♡-Mention of other groups like TXT, EXO, ENHA, G-IDLE, LE SSERA, NCT DREAM, RIIZE (THIS IS A SERIES SO IG I WILL BE ADDING MORE TO THAN THESE WARNINGS) - MDNI OR I WILL BLOCK THOSE WITHOUT AGE INDICATOR ON BIO READER IS NAMED LI MEI QIANG!!! >>>> IMAGES ARE FROM PINTEREST so yeah, ctto. Also, there will be a 1st person POV 'cause I like starting from Y/N's POV at every story I make. Lmao. Enjoy babies. ♡

PREVIEW: YN POV: I had always thought I would live out the rest of my days aging quietly and dying a mundane death. My life seemed devoid of surprises until I turned 23. Suddenly, I found myself entangled with businesses, gangs, and even dangerous mafias. Who could have imagined my life would take such an exhilarating turn? At last, I had something new to experience in my previously dull existence. Now, I could finally put my unique ability to good use-an ability to manipulate, honed by my deep understanding of psychology, in situations that were both serious and thrilling. Would I able to handle this serious turn of events? You're damn right I can.

> CHAPTER 1

tags: gunshots, blood, language, manipulation, fighting, action

> CHAPTER 2

tags: language, kissing, making out (w/joshujii), persistence

> CHAPTER 3

tags: kidnapping, nonconsent, making out, needles, blood, language, manipulation

> CHAPTER 4

tags: gunshots, blood, language, manipulation

a/n: sorry guys, i only recently uploaded this story on tumblr so yeah, still working on other chapters (hehe)

do check this story out on wattpad since ive already uploaded a bunch of chapters there (though still unfinished) but yeah, busy with college and stuffs (my damn job) as well so i dont think i can update frequently. PLEASE ENJOY THOUGH

[heartepub]

poems on leaving and seventeen

note. curated ouch poems from yours truly (literally no one asked but idc!). someone save me from these compilations pls. no link to the why we wait poem cos (update) palanca took down the drive link, but send an ask if you want to see the full poem!

FOR M by Mikko Harvey

Please linger near the door uncomfortably instead of just leaving. Please forget your scarf in my life and come back later for it.

⤷ lee jihoon, hansol vernon chwe, boo seungkwan

DRIFT by Brenda Shaunessy

I’ll go anywhere to leave you but come with me. All the cities are like you anyway. Windows darken when I get close enough to see. Any place we want to stay’s polluted, the good spots taken already by those who ruin them. And restaurants we’d never find.

⤷ wen junhui, jeon wonwoo, kim mingyu

WHY WE WAIT by Mikael de Lara Co

You keening for some hidden brightness. Because the heart relies on wishing to keep its rhythm. because the task of hands is to insist on holding. Because mostly we fail. Because mostly we wish each other forgetfulness. Sometimes we wish each other well.

⤷ yoon jeonghan, hong jisoo, lee seokmin, lee chan

YOUTH by W.S. Merwin

entirely at that moment and you let me breathe you touch you taste you knowing no more than I did and only when I began to think of losing you did I recognize you when you were already part memory part distance remaining mine in the ways that I learn to miss you from what we cannot hold the stars are made

⤷ choi seungcheol, kwon soonyoung, xu minghao

[pasteidolons]

𝔥𝔴𝔞𝔯𝔞𝔫𝔤 - 𝔥𝔧𝔰 || 𝔭𝔞𝔯𝔱 𝔳𝔦

pairing: hong jisoo x female!reader genre: historical au, fluff, angst, smut (later routes), supernatural members: lee jihoon, choi seungcheol, wen junhui, kwon soonyoung, jeon wonwoo, lee seokmin, kim mingyu, boo seungkwan, lee chan, xu minghao, lee chan, choi hansol warnings: crass humor and language, blood, violence, mentions of suicide, alcohol, minor character death, 660's sexism, crossdressing, medical procedures, political upset, historical inaccuracies for the sake of plot progression word count: 9.2k

taglist: @reiofsuns2001, @hipsdofangirl, @lovrehani

𝔭𝔞𝔯𝔱 𝔳 || 𝔭𝔞𝔯𝔱 𝔳𝔦𝔦

𝔐𝔞𝔯𝔠𝔥 15𝔱𝔥, 666 – 𝔘𝔫𝔤𝔧𝔦𝔫, 𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤𝔡𝔬𝔪 𝔬𝔣 𝔖𝔦𝔩𝔩𝔞 It’s a brisk, nearly springtime, evening when Jisoo quickly races into your room, urgency in his voice, “Listen carefully. Jinsang has emerged out of hiding.”

Minhyun, trailing behind him, adds, “They are most likely heading to Fuyu.”

“Logic would dictate that…” Jisoo nods, “It is the only locale near Pyongyang with a dense enough population to feed his massive army before Silla pushes even more into their Kingdom. Their foolish plan to thrust Silla into chaos hadn’t panned out as expected, and it seems as if Minghao’s kept his word… Surely they are reaching the point of desperation.”

The Demon’s crimson stare flickers to you, “Since this directly concerns you as a Heo, do you intend on accompanying us?” His gaze looks impertinent, almost as if he’s testing you.

 Your mind is already set, “I’m going.”

 He squints at you in response, staring blankly at you for a brief moment before relenting, “Very well.” His curt response is all you need.

The last you and Jisoo spoke about matters concerning Jinsang, he’d been dead set on prohibiting you form getting involved, yet now, as Silla pushes further into Goguryeo territory, you aren’t as worried at the fear of all-out war breaking out. If Furies can no longer be used as leverage, then maybe Jinsang can see the error in his ways once he realizes how little Goguryeo values his experiments. You wrestle with these thoughts as Jisoo continues.

 “I assume he’s marching half of his Furies north as we speak,” He muses.

 “Minghao should already be there with a group of soldiers.” Minhyun says. 

“Then we will reconvene with him as soon as our business with Heo is concluded.” 

Ungjin is blessed with a quiet calm as its residents sleep peacefully in the dead of night. The three of you wind carefully through the city, making your way to the northern gate to head towards Hanseong. 

𝔐𝔞𝔯𝔠𝔥 30𝔱𝔥, 666 – 𝔊𝔦𝔯𝔦𝔫 ℜ𝔢𝔰𝔦𝔡𝔢𝔫𝔠𝔢, ℌ𝔞𝔫𝔰𝔢𝔬𝔫𝔤, 𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤𝔡𝔬𝔪 𝔬𝔣 𝔖𝔦𝔩𝔩𝔞 “Have they already left?” Jisoo’s question rings through the nighttime sky, “I don’t detect anyone nearby…”

During your travels north, Hanseong was readily captured by the Silla forces moving towards the capital of Goguryeo, allowing you easy access into the city. It had been difficult to track down the whereabouts of where Heo Jinsang had been holing up the Furies, but Minhyun had gotten a lead towards this one particular residence on the outskirts of the city. 

“Oh!” You say, your eye catching something moving atop the roof before hopping down to greet the three of you. 

“It’s been a while,” Hak Ahro smiles, “I’ve been waiting patiently for you, sister.” 

“Ahro—” you begin before he speaks over you. 

“I’ve already spoken with Jinsang. He informed me that he had generously offered you the chance to join us, but…” His gaze flickers to Jisoo, “He got in the way of that, or something. Don’t you think it rude to interrupt an emotional reunion between a father and daughter?” 

Jisoo says nothing, keeping his guard raised as he glares at Ahro without humoring his sarcasm. 

“So?” Ahro asks, “Why are all of you here? If you’ve brought these two as your bodyguards, it can’t mean anything good. 

You know that speaking with your father had proved futile, but with their hope dwindling, maybe, maybe, you can get through to them. 

“Jisoo,” you whisper to him, “please give me one more chance.” 

Without moving his head, he shifts his line of sight to stare at you begrudgingly, taking his time to decide, “As you wish…” 

You feel a huge pang of relief, and after thanking him, you turn to face Ahro, “I want you and father to hear me out before this goes any further.” 

Ahro gazes at you coldly, pursing his lips, “I see… I think I have an idea of what you’re going to say. Why don’t you all come inside? Jinsang’s been expecting you.” 

The three of you follow him inside cautiously to the main room where Heo Jinsang stands. You hadn't expected him to be here, but somewhere far north with his Furies.

“At last,” he smiles, “you’ve come.” 

Although you’ve made yourself aware of all the horrible things he’d done over the past few years, every time that Heo Jinsang greets you with his jovial smile, it shatters you into a thousand pieces, “… Father.” 

Even if you aren’t related by blood, he’d dedicated his life to raising you like a daughter. As the guilt trickles in, you have to snap yourself out of it, straightening your back as you speak to them. 

“I dreamt of something. It wasn’t much, but it was a memory from my childhood…” You begin slowly, recollecting the memory, “I witnessed a vision of our village burning, and I recalled how the humans destroyed our way of life. Both of you were there to rescue me, and together we escaped the fire by fleeing into the forest.” 

“I can only imagine,” your father winces, “how painful it must have been to remember such atrocities.” 

You shake your head at him, “It’s not about me. I know the two of you have been mulling this trauma over for far longer than I have. After all that’s happened, I can’t blame either of you for holding onto your grudge against humanity for as long as you have.” 

“Then…” Ahro’s voice perks up at his attempt to interject, you can swear you see his expression begin to soften. 

“Keeping all of this in mind, however, I implore the two of you not to unleash your Fury army.” As you mention the last part, both Ahro and Jinsang freeze in shock. “We were able to avoid the terrors of war in Ungjin… Why do either of you seek to inflict pain on others? Haven’t they suffered enough? I’m sure neither of you want to impose the same nightmarish fate that we’ve had to endure, do you?” 

A forlorn expression covers Jinsang’s face, Ahro, on the other hand, is less sympathetic to the point you’re trying to make. 

“Don’t break your foot getting off of that high horse.” He frowns, “Must be nice living a privileged life, isn’t it? Do you know what I had to struggle with after our village burned down? About how I was treated with the Hak clan? Because I cannot bear children, they treated me like I was less than the shit they scraped from their boots. I was lucky they kept me alive…” 

Bitterness erodes his voice, “They broke me again and again and again until I was nothing. At one point I…” He pauses, shaking his head, “Thanks to them, I realized humans and Demons are no different. Power corrupts all.” 

Listening to him makes your heart sink. All that time you lived peacefully in Toehwa-hyeon… Just what had Ahro been subjected to? A life with no love or compassion, it explains so much. 

“Then what is it that you want, Ahro?” You ask, “Do you want the Furies to rebuild the Heo clan? Is that what you really want?” 

“Isn’t it obvious?” He spits out, “It’s my duty… I cannot let our parents down by letting our name hang in disgrace! I refuse to let those imbeciles destroy our legacy without putting up a fight! The Hak clan abused me, and the Demons in the south and north turned a blind eye to our suffering, letting our people scatter with the wind. How do you expect me to forgive them for spitting on us when we begged for their help?! Doesn’t that insult what it means to be a Demon?” 

Each word he speaks breaks off another piece of your heart as his festering resentment comes to light. Maybe you had judged him incorrectly and the only thing that can soothe his soul is… if he exacted revenge on every person that had ever harmed or wronged him in the past. Perhaps, there is no other way… 

Jisoo steps in front of you all of a sudden, not even looking at you as he speaks, “Step back” 

“Jisoo…” Just as you had feared, their time of reckoning has come. “Jisoo I—” 

“I told you to step back,” he barks at you sternly, and you can’t help but move. His hand reaches for the hilt of his sword, drawing it in one swift motion. Jisoo holds it comfortably in his palm as if it’s an extension of his own arm, and like a phantom, it glows, illuminating the room. 

“Hwangun’s Demonslayer, hm?” Ahro muses as his eyes track the blade. “Since that weapon was forged to kill Demons, it must mean you’re really going for us, aren’t you?” 

“Of course.” Jisoo declares. 

“Then,” Ahro smirks, “I suppose I’ll have to return the favor.” His hand slips into his pocket, procuring a crystalline vial. 

“The dishonored bastard of a Demon clan has to forfeit his life in order to become a fake, is that it?” Jisoo’s eyes watch the red liquid swirl around the glass, “And here, I thought you could stoop no lower.”

“It appears we disagree on what constitutes honor,” Ahro’s fingers toy with the opening, “No matter what happens, I cannot allow you to kill me here!”

“Ahro, no!” Taking a split second to decide, you sprint towards him to snatch away the serum. 

As you near, he shouts out, “Don’t touch me!” And he shoves you and your attempt at saving him away, causing you to fall to the floor. 

You’re too late, as he’s uncapped the vial and placing it to his lips, he drinks the contents quickly. Ahro grips his chest, moaning in anguish. He lets the glass slip from his hand, it shatters on the floor as it lands. And then, just as Jinsang’s had done, his eyes begin to glow gold. His hair turns pale white and two horns emerge from his forehead. 

Your brother has become a Fury. 

“See?” He smirks, “Now it’s a fair fight, isn’t it, Hong Jisoo?” 

“You are lost, boy.” Jisoo murmurs coolly. All of a sudden, an aura emanates from him as his own body morphs, his hair turning white, his eyes gold and the horns emerging from his own head. Both of them radiate spheres of energy, glowing white hot as they charge one another. 

The thunderous clang of their blades echoes deafeningly around the room. Their agility is superhuman, making it difficult to track the paths of their swords as they rapidly trade a flurry of unrelenting attacks. 

“You’re not quick enough for me!” Ahro laughs maniacally, “At this rate I will crush you in minutes!” 

Sparks fly as their swords crack into one another, neither one willing to let up steam. 

“Jinsang,” Minhyun calls out, “You’re mine.” 

“There’s no need to rush things,” Jinsang leers, “In fact, since we’re all together, perhaps you would be better off warming up with my beloved children.” He places two fingers to his mouth and whistles. 

From behind you, you hear the ominous creak of doors opening. Within seconds, your worst fears are realized. You find yourself surrounded by a bevy of red eyes, Furies calling out for blood. 

Minhyun is the first to reach, unsheathing his sword, swinging fast slashes at the Furies funneling into the room. Yet… Not even Minhyun’s skill with a blade can subdue the incoming Furies, they close in without flinching. 

“Bastards!” Minhyun cries out, releasing another volley of strikes. He has the advantage of battle-worn experience and superior strength but these Furies are different. His attacks do little to stunt their fervor, and soon, dozens of Furies have you cornered. 

“Minhyun! Jisoo!” You cry out, reaching for the blade at your hip to join them in the fight. Suddenly, you’re grabbed from behind. 

“Let’s leave while we can,” Jinsang murmurs to you, “No matter what anyone else claims, you are a descendent of the Heo clan. Your parents would have wanted you to join us more than anything.” 

“No!” You struggle under his grip, “Let me go!” It’s impossible to slip from his grasp. 

“Demons from the west and Demons from the east… Two species that have never been acquainted will now come together as one,” he says, “It will create the strongest Demon ever to exist. This is your destiny.” 

His words paralyze you with fear, and at first nothing he says registers. Is this what he had planned for you all along? 

If all goes according to his plan, then the casualties wouldn’t be limited to the Kingdoms alone. This affliction can potentially spread around the world, devastating countless lives. You can’t bear to let your life amount to this, nor can you stand to let yourself be attached to such a crime against humanity… 

Your eyes flick down to your waist, and you struggle in your father’s arms to grab your blade. 

“What are you doing?!” Jinsang shouts, “Don’t do anything reckless!” He attempts to pry the blade from you, but finds it difficult as you jostle yourself in his arms. 

“Let her go, Jinsang,” Jisoo says as he saunters towards the two of you. 

“What?” Jinsang exclaims, “How are you here so soon…? Don’t tell me Ahro lost to the likes of you.”

 “Are you deaf, old man? I said, ‘Let her go’.”

Your father snickers, continuing to ignore the command. Jisoo shifts his eyes at you momentarily, looking at you intently as he motions with his lips. It’s almost as if he’s expressing his desire to kill your father, whether or not you approve. 

At this point, it seems inevitable. You had spilled your heart out, and still he refused to listen. At some point, you have to accept the truth. Your paths had diverged some time ago, and it’s unlikely that you would ever see eye to eye about the atrocities he threatens to commit. Unfortunately, it leaves you with no other choice. 

You look Jisoo in the eye and without another second to hesitate, nodding firmly. 

Judging by his wry smile, it seems as if Jisoo’s understood everything. 

“Death is a messy affair, and this is certainly no exception.” Jisoo raises his sword, “Shut your eyes.” 

You appreciate his sentiment, but shake your head, “I am a Demon of the Heo Family,” you say, “The least I can do is dignify him with the honor of watching his final moments.” 

“You’ve got a stronger heart than I thought. Don’t blame me if this haunts you forever,” His attention then turns to your father, “Okay, Jinsang. Have you made peace with yourself? Luckily for you, I am merciful. I promise this won’t hurt; well, not too much.” 

He raises his sword high above your father’s head, stopping within inches of his face. Panic suddenly set in for Jinsang, realizing there would be no escape from his execution until— His eyes begin to glow menacingly, focusing his Fury powers within himself, causing the ground underfoot to rumble. 

Jinsang breaks away from you to rush at Jisoo. But it’s no use. Their difference in power is palpable. Jisoo effortlessly swings his sword at the oncoming Jinsang, and in an instant, a deep, wide gash appears on your father’s sunken chest. 

A splash of crimson blood cascades in the air as your father cries out in agony. He falls, lifeless to the floor, limp and dead. Jisoo flicks his sword downward, sending an arc of blood droplets flying, before sheathing his blade as if to make a conclusive statement. 

You run to your father’s corpse when something peculiar occurs. After the color leaves his face, his flesh begins to smolder, similar to the burning logs of a fire, and slowly, he turns to ash before you. As he disintegrates, what remains of his body floats away with the breeze, leaving behind nothing in its wake. 

At long last, Heo Jinsang is dead. The man for whom you had spent years searching for had, once again, exited your life without a word. 

Although you had accepted the possibility of his death long ago, your body feels suddenly light, perhaps feeling his empty weight in your broken heart. You cannot understand how it has come to this. 

Reflecting on those circumstances sends you into a defeated slump, and without saying a word, Jisoo draws you into his embrace, your tears staining his robes.

“Jisoo,” you murmur, unable to look up at him. Whatever he has to say on the matter is an enigma to you, but for now you take solace in the comfort of his arms. You don’t think you can stand even if you want to.

 “What happened to Ahro? Did you…?” What do you want to say? ‘Kill him’? The words are unable to form. 

“I injured him, but he escaped.” Jisoo says quietly, “However since it was a wound inflicted by my blade, it will take some time to heal.” The tone of his voice gives you the impression that he’s trying to put you at ease, but you doubt Ahro would completely heal from an injury Jisoo would’ve given him. Yet the fact that he’s attempting to show you kindness makes all the difference in this moment. 

“Father was a wonderful man… He was…” Your heart feels so heavy that you barely notice the tears streaming from your eyes. “He cared so much for his patients I just—I don’t understand… I was proud to call him my father.” The bittersweet memory of your childhood comes flooding back to you, which seems to only exacerbate your tears. 

“I wonder what caused him to change so drastically?” 

“If your village hadn’t been burned to the ground, then perhaps there would have been some hope of saving the man he used to be,” Jisoo says slowly, “At the end of the day, humans are to blame.” 

There’s a resentful undertone lurking in his hushed voice. Jisoo is unashamedly proud to be a Demon. Eventually, this pride morphed into hatred, a potent discontent for everyone he considers beneath him. You can only imagine how difficult it must have been to murder one of his own kin. 

“I understand…” Although humans had been responsible for the death of your people, which led to them following this path of bitter revenge… Your family chose to let it consume them to the point of no return. However, it’s easier to conceptualize than it is to accept. 

“I’m just so heartbroken,” you sob so hard that your eyes begin to burn. Jisoo, sensing your pain, holds you just a bit tighter. “I know what you mean, though… Some humans are unmistakably evil, but others are okay…” Tears drip into your mouth as you speak, their saltiness stinging. “There are so many people who commit their lives to pursuits other than power.” 

In your experience, the Hwarang had been a prime example of this, you want nothing more than to learn of their fate. You need to find them, wherever they are. Now that you’ve lost your father, there aren’t many other convictions worth seeing to their end. 

After a few more moments, you pull away from Jisoo and he turns to Minhyun, “I believe the fighting will soon stop in Fuyu.” 

“Even though they’re fighting Furies, I doubt Minghao will have much trouble. Perhaps we should come to his aid,” Minhyun suggests. 

“Indeed,” Jisoo nods before turning to face you. “Return to the inn.” 

“What?” You shake your head, “I can’t just let you two handle this alone…” 

“Don’t flatter yourself. What good do you expect to do? You look dreadful,” he says, furrowing his brow. “Hurry up and return to the inn. Get some rest… Got it?” 

You’re concerned about the outcome of Fuyu, but you trust Jisoo to take care of things, and you’re comforted by the fact that he’s looking out for you. 

𝔄𝔭𝔯𝔦𝔩 8𝔱𝔥, 666 – ℌ𝔞𝔫𝔰𝔢𝔬𝔫𝔤, 𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤𝔡𝔬𝔪 𝔬𝔣 𝔖𝔦𝔩𝔩𝔞 After days of waiting, Jisoo finally returns, slinking into the inn with a reserved expression. 

“Minghao performed his duty and destroyed all of the Heo’s monsters,” Jisoo reports, “If you sincerely wish to reunite with the Hwarang, then prepare your things at once.” He speaks curtly, leaving you with that as he exits your room. 

You quickly rummage to gather your things, your thoughts lingering on your father as you find one of his old books tucked away in your bag. Although, your attention is turned to the door once again as Jisoo steps inside, sporting a whole new wardrobe. 

It takes you a moment to recognize him as he’s wearing Tang styled clothing. It clings to the dimensions of his body so nicely that you can’t help but feel your face warm at how… nice he looks. You look away to keep from staring at him. 

“What’s with your face?” He asks, “Do you want a uniform like this?” 

“O-oh, no, that’s not it.” You shake your head, shoving things into your bag. “They just look a little uncomfortable.” 

“Not at all,” he muses, flexing out his arms, “To tell you the truth, they’re a bit easier to maneuver in than my typical clothes. Perhaps I will have a set made for you one day, look forward to it.” 

“I couldn’t—” you say quickly. 

“I’m trying to show you kindness, it’s a gift.” He sighs out, “Quit wallowing in your self-pity for once. Now, there are people waiting for us. Let’s go.” 

“People…?” You ask, following him outside. “Oh, hello Minghao… Are you the person waiting for us?” 

Although you had clearly addressed him, he ignores you, making you think that you’re imagining his visage. After a moment, he stares at you intently. 

“Did something happen?” You ask with a tilt of your head. 

Yet again, he doesn’t respond, choosing instead to chew on his lips as he picks out his word carefully, “Do you remember the Hwarang captain Mingyu?” 

“Of course,” you nod, “He was one of the kindest people I met when I lived with the Hwarang.” Why is Minghao mentioning Mingyu now? As you consider the possibilities, it hits you. It feels as if one of Minghao’s arrows has hit your chest, and you’re finding it difficult to breathe. 

No… It can’t be. 

“Mingyu passed away. He lost his life battling the Furies in Fuyu…” 

“What?!” You cry out. Even though you had braced yourself for the possibility, nothing can soften the blow of the truth. “Wh- Why would he…?” 

Because Namekawa had mentioned something about how Mingyu wasn’t traveling with the Hwarang anymore, you had assumed he would’ve gone elsewhere other than the front lines. 

“While investigating the movement of Jinsang’s Furies, he and I crossed paths,” Minghao explains, “After briefing him of our situation, he and I struck up something of an alliance… All of a sudden, he began repeating how much he’d wanted to battle beside me. Maybe it’s me. Maybe I’m just bad luck, since everyone I fight alongside ends up dead soon after.” 

Although you’re watching his lips move, your mind instinctively mutes everything else that falls from his mouth. You try your best to focus on your image of Mingyu. There’s nothing of worth you can contribute so you simply stand there, demoralized and numb. 

Mingyu… Although he seemed rough around the edges to others, you remember him more as a gentle, courageous soul. How could someone so beautiful die so young…? 

“No time for tears,” Jisoo says, “You still want to find them, don’t you?” 

You nod silently, hoping that Mingyu’s death is the epilogue to your harrowing journey… Although you’re unsure if that’s the case now. 

𝔐𝔞𝔶 19𝔱𝔥, 666 – 𝔉𝔲𝔶𝔲, 𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤𝔡𝔬𝔪 𝔬𝔣 𝔊𝔬𝔤𝔲𝔯𝔶𝔢𝔬 By the time you reach Fuyu, spring is in full bloom. You find the town has already succumbed to Silla as their forces begin to encircle Pyongyang. The town itself is still in disarray from the battle, its ravaged exterior telling you everything you need to know. 

“I have bad news,” Jisoo murmurs to you as you walk along the streets of the town, not noticing that he had joined you some time along your stroll. 

“Jisoo…” Your heart still reeling from Minghao’s revelation of Mingyu, you’re unsure of how much more you can take. “Please, go on.” 

As soon as you answer, he tilts his head down and speaks quietly, “In retaliation for their capture of Fuyu, Youngmin was tried and beheaded by the Goguryeo forces.”

A paragon of benevolence and leadership… Youngmin had been denied an honorable death and it breaks your heart to hear that he’d been decapitated like some criminal. For a moment you remain silent, softly turning your thoughts over in your head as Jisoo looks away. 

“You can decide whether or not you believe it.” 

“No,” you shake your head, “I believe you.” 

When Namekawa had notified you of Youngmin’s surrender, you considered this to be the worst-case scenario. You buried the thought somewhere, clinging to the hope that he could be rescued, or maybe they would show him mercy for his character. But hearing Jisoo say it, having it become real through his curt, impersonal words, is a devastating blow at a time when you’re reaching your limit.

“What does that mean for the Hwarang now?” You question. 

Youngmin had proudly served as the Hwarang’s Chief, and without him, you wonder how they would adapt to his absence. 

“I hear they’ve begun to march onto Geumji to continue fighting in their late Chief’s honor.” He says simply, “Where does that leave you?” His question seems less interrogative and more interested in your feelings, which you appreciate. 

However, you figure he’s intuitive enough to know that your opinion on the matter is unchanged, and you answer him resolutely, “I’m going to Geumji too. I’m going to wherever the Hwarang men are.” 

𝔖𝔢𝔭𝔱𝔢𝔪𝔟𝔢𝔯 5𝔱𝔥, 666 – 𝔗𝔥𝔢 ℜ𝔬𝔞𝔡 𝔱𝔬 𝔊𝔢𝔲𝔪𝔧𝔦, 𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤𝔡𝔬𝔪 𝔬𝔣 𝔊𝔬𝔤𝔲𝔯𝔶𝔢𝔬 After a long and encompassing journey, Jisoo and you set foot in a small town some days away from Pyongyang, gazing at the peripheral view of its vast landscape. Tension boils in the air around the upcoming battles, particularly in the small villages in the area, just like the one you’re in now. 

It’s here that Hwan Minhyun meets you, giving you valuable information. 

“The Hwarang were fighting in Naemihol until mid-June,” He relays, “They held the area until Silla forces could successfully take over entire control… But they lost many men in the conflict.” 

“Just as I thought…” Jisoo murmurs, “Cannon fodder.” 

After being dealt another crushing wave of casualties, Minhyun mentions something that piques your interest. “They’re heading to Namhansanseong. To my knowledge, their plan is to fortify the fortress and hold it for as long as they can until Silla once again comes to their aid.” 

“Namhansanseong… Then that’s where we need to go, isn’t it?” You say quickly. 

“One would assume…” Jisoo nods, “Is that what you want?” 

Chasing the Hwarang is trying to catch smoke with your hands, they’re just out of reach every time. Would your reunion ever happen? Or would each of them succumb to a fate similar to Youngmin’s or Mingyu’s before this war ever ends? 

Fear and anxiety prompts you to speak, “I want to go.” 

“I’m unamused by your poor attempt at humor,” Jisoo frowns, “If you’re being serious, then I’m even less amused.” Sensing your resolve, he speaks bitterly, “Are you stupid or have you been living under a rock while they run themselves into the ground? Namhansanseong will be attacked relentlessly before Silla even sets foot into the area, are you sure that your Hwarang will be there when we arrive?” 

“I understand,” you mirror his frown, “but that’s the only lead we have about their whereabouts. I’ve missed them a handful of times now and I don’t know if I could stomach never seeing them again.” You stop yourself, biting your tongue from contemplating the worst. 

Jisoo’s expression, however, is as aloof as it’s always been, “Let’s suppose they are, in fact, at Namhansanseong. What the hell do you expect you’re going to do if you make it there? Waltz on in?” 

“Well—” You start before Jisoo stops you. 

“You would be killed. You’re an idiot if you think otherwise.” 

“I am not going to do anything once I get there!” You don’t need his sharp criticism; not do you expect to come and rescue the Hwarang. You just need him to understand how you feel. “I just… I want to see everyone while I still can.” trying to steady your breath, you continue, “I don’t know if I could bear the thought of never seeing them again before something happens to them like Youngmin or Mingyu…” 

“What?” He says bluntly, “You’re willing to get yourself killed for the mere possibility of seeing them?” 

“I’m not going to let them kill me…” 

“Mind telling me what you know that I don’t?” Voice piquing, “In case you were unaware, Kwak Youngmin has been executed, and his head is currently on display at Dosal Castle. Then there’s Kim Mingyu, who was ripped to shreds in Fuyu. No one’s patting him on the back for dying like a wounded animal. I’ve told you all this before—they will be a footnote in history.” 

He makes sense, if the fortress is going to come under siege it would be foolish for you to go. The Hwarang would die and be written off as some common foot soldiers, warping the truth and their meaning for a while… 

“I’ll remember them,” you state, “It doesn’t matter if people mischaracterize the Hwarang from who they really were…. I will honor their memory, and you can make damn sure that I’ll never forget it.” 

You can almost hear Jisoo gnashing his teeth as he glares at you, “I knew women were whimsied by delusion, but you are sitting at the top of the pile. Very well. Do what makes you happy.” 

An awkward tension lingers in the space of your conversation, making you unsure if Jisoo’s upset or just frustrated at your unwillingness to cooperate. His eyes are like daggers, sinking into you. 

“Let’s simmer down, you two,” Minhyun steps in, looking at the other man, “What’s the point in arguing? And you, Jisoo, you normally keep your cool around women.” 

He scoffs, “Maybe I’d keep my ‘cool’ if she wasn’t being such an idiot. This discussion is pointless. I have other things that require my attention, so I'm taking my leave.” Jisoo’s biting tone leaves you feeling uncomfortable as he spins on his heels and walks away. 

You contemplate calling his name to clear the air but Minhyun stops you. 

“You should go after him.” Noting your confused expression, he continues, “Jisoo is a real grouch, but he’s not the type of man that would let something frustrate him enough to walk off like that… I understand that you’re racing against the clock to see your friends right now, but it’s not like you’re in any position to get to Namhansanseong by yourself. You know that, right?” 

“Yes…” 

“Besides, it’s like you said. We have no idea or guarantee that the Hwarang will be there. I’ll do what I can to investigate their whereabouts for the time being… For now, why don’t you speak to Jisoo?” 

“Thank you, Minhyun,” you say quickly, beginning to walk after Jisoo. 

“No need,” he shakes his head with a small smile, “I’m simply doing my duty.”

 By the time you find Jisoo, the sun is beginning to set into a warm pool on the horizon.

 “Jisoo…” You timidly call out to him. 

He turns his head to gaze at you, but pays you no mind after and continues to walk at the same pace.

 “Where… Where are you going?” 

“If you insist on joining me, then shut your mouth and keep up. You’ll understand when we arrive.”

 You sprint up to try and further the conversation, but he seems unwilling to entertain such things. You peek at him confusedly, and you’re struck with the most peculiar feeling of déjà vu.

 “Huh?” Time seems to shift for a moment, things moving slowly as you look to a row of trees looming over the forested path. Its neat arrangement reminds you of a welcoming ceremony. Nose tingling with the most familiar scents; a fragrant patch of flowers dotting a lush meadow, dew clinging onto their petals…

 Your body is trying to tell you something, consuming you with a vague sense of yearning. It all feels so surreal, and you can’t place your finger on it. An ambient energy imbues you, a serene grace that puts your tired heart at ease.

 “Here we are…” Before you have an opportunity to voice how strange you feel, Jisoo stops walking.

“This place…” you can hardly form the words as you realize. Your eyes scanning the environment, hitting you with a blast of nostalgia that nearly topples you. Beside you lay a charred hut with fallen supports, your mind immediately pictures what it once had been. This had been a village, and in the middle of it lays a decayed well, encircled by overgrown weeds.

 Remnants of old life remain scattered here, an old bucket lay broken, an old doll lay weathered in the grass near your feet. There’s no mistaking where you are.

 “Is this the village where I was born?” You look to Jisoo, who neglects to answer you and shuts his eyes softly.

 “Hm…” Something catches his attention, his eyes shooting open and he darts up a small hill to see what it is. To your surprise, you see Hak Ahro.

 He’s collapsed in a bed of flowers, your heart dropping as you near. On the side of his ribcage is gauze that had been completely soaked in blood. You’re under the impression that he’d attempted to treat his injury inflicted by Jisoo yet… It doesn’t surprise you that he would flee here in anticipation of death’s embrace, left to suffer his last, bitter moments alone.

 “He’s been long dead…” Jisoo ascertains by the stiffness of the body.

 You take comfort in that, in the fact that his expression seems rather peaceful. Part of you believes that, after the evening passes, he’ll wake up to greet the morning and you could talk about everything that happened.

 A new memory begins to uncloud itself as you look on to your deceased brother’s body… It had been years ago, back when this village was populated and full of life. You’d asked Ahro to take you to see flowers… To see these flowers, even though your parents hadn’t allowed it. He’d offered to take you in secret, claiming that he’d protect you from anything outside.

 “I just remembered something important,” you say, feeling a hot, sticky tear begin to roll down your cheek.

 “Important?” Jisoo questions.

 You nod softly, “I was… loved. There were many people who protected and cared for me; most of all, it was Jinsang and Ahro...”

 “I see…” Jisoo doesn’t press the matter further. The two of you listen to the gentle hum of the wind passing through the bones of the village, grazing against the burned wood and worn stone. “Your brother deserves to be buried, a grave befitting the head of the Heo Family.”

Together, you hike to the peak of the hill that overlooks the village, and it is there that you bury Ahro’s remains. Jisoo keeps his eyes fixated on the grave for a few minutes after you have finished patting the dirt down. He sighs and reaches for the canteen on the side of his belt, pouring the contents gently atop the grave.

The gokaju reflects in the moonlight as it falls from the bottle, seeping deep into the soil. Jisoo is expressionless, watching the alcohol drip out as the container empties. His eyes glow with melancholy, and you wonder if he’s regretful about how things had transpired between the two of them.

“If it weren’t for the humans, then I am certain that your brother would have made a fine leader.” His sentiment is heavy, seeming as if the two of you are learning to navigate the nuances of your grief together.

‘If it weren’t for the humans…’ It’s a lofty idea, one that you will likely ponder for the remainder of your life. Things could have manifested so differently for Ahro and your father… At the very least, they could have made an impact on their people, unburdened by the curse of vengeance that unfairly plagued the rest of their short lives.

Ahro originally mentioned something about wanting to use the Furies to build back the Heo Clan, but in the end, you believe it all to have been a mask to hide the trauma inflicted by the wicked humans. In essence, he had wanted to preserve the picture of this village and everything it stood for.

Maybe—just maybe—he’d wanted to reclaim some of those memories that were viciously stripped from him. He was a boy whose every step was met with misfortune, tragically so. He died as he lived—alone. It’s the only way you’re able to think of him without slumping into a dark depression.

You wish and hope that his last moments were painless, that he’d been able to reconcile his hatred as he laid in the meadow of the one place he cared for. 

“Jisoo…” you call out his name once more as you leave the hill slowly.

“What?”

“I know that my father and Ahro committed unforgivable crimes against humanity and our people… Do you think it would be okay for me to remember them as gentle, kind people…?” Jinsang’s serum had been catastrophic, responsible for countless deaths. For them to violate the natural order of Demonhood, and all that encompasses your sacred existence, is a mark of condemnation to Jisoo and his kin.

“You are free to do as you please,” he says quietly. “The Demon’s Code has no bearing on matters of the heart. Regardless of the sins they have committed, they are still your family.”

His words bring a weight from your shoulders, “Can I ask you one more question? Demons far surpass humans in strength and ability, right? How can you explain what happened to my people? How were humans able to do,” you look to the barren village, “this?”

Jisoo tilts his head, staring into your eyes inquisitively. Perhaps he’s testing you to see if you can handle the truth; to be honest, you’re unsure if you are, but the question needs an answer.

“Goguryeo asked for aid in stopping the preliminary attacks on Baekje over twenty years ago, they needed more help than my or Minhyun’s families could afford to give them, so they went east… It was then they asked the Heo clan.” Jisoo pauses for a moment, “Your people, however, were unenthused about the idea of participating in human affairs, particularly in regards to warfare, and supposedly declined to help…”

Because they expressed no interest, you’re sure that the King of Goguryeo saw that as an affront to his authority…

“That’s why my people were killed? That was their justification?” You cry out in defeat and Jisoo turns to look at the remnants of the village. It’s futile. The past cannot be changed.

“Do you now feel their hatred?” He asks simply before uttering his words of advice, “Remain in the shadows, out of their affairs. This is where Demons belong. Of all the clans, yours is the one who put the dignity of its people first by refusing. The humans had no right to attack your people and were blinded by their lust for power and control.”

You direct your gaze to the forest floor as he speaks once more, his voice barely above a whisper, “It was never my intention to reveal the history of the Heo Clan to you, but… I suppose, because we are here, it is unavoidable.”

As you look at him, he asks, “Do you not resent the humans for what they’ve done?”

You mull for a moment, “There’s a part of me that thinks about how I should hate them… But there’s something overriding that angry voice and instead I just feel… heartbroken. I’m just filled with sorrow for what could have been.”

“Sorrow?” He asks and you nod.

When you first learned of what compelled your father and Ahro to embark on this path of revenge, all you felt was sorrow. Grief has taken you entirely now. You’d been reminded of the family you used to know as well as the parents you will never know.

“My real father and mother… And everyone else… Do you know how they died?”

Jisoo shakes his head, “I haven’t the faintest idea. My only knowledge is that none of them put up a fight, and were complicit in the humans’ rampage. It was an admirable effort, holding onto their convictions as Demons by refusing to fight the humans, even at the cost of their own lives.”

As you and Jisoo walk through the village, you kneel down to rest your hand to lay upon one of the fallen pillars that had greeted you upon your arrival. Had you touched this pillar as a child? Now it lies as a lifeless and forgotten artifact.

“Is there no way for us to live in a world where everyone can coexist peacefully?”

Why is the pursuit of peace so entrenched in the deaths of innocent lives?

“The Hwarang exposed me to so many different walks of life… A range of motivations, ideologies and ambitions.” When two opposing parties are unwilling to compromise, then it usually leads to war, yet… “All anyone should be concerned about is helping out their fellow man. It just breaks my heart to see that people are so willing to inflict pain on others.”

“I can see how hurt you are…” Jisoo takes this moment to console you, not refute, and nods quietly. There’s a kind twinkle in his eyes, which you notice to be uncharacteristically placid as you look at him. “Perhaps there will be a day when we will no longer need our swords to speak for us.” 

Eventually, you fall quiet, naturally running out of things to say. After a moment, he mutters to himself, “Humans are hopeless. They are, without exception, drawn to conflict like a moth to a lantern. This is why Demons have forsaken them, my desire to aid in their war wanes with each day. And of course, so should yours.”

“Jisoo…” You had no intention of being near this war, but there’s so much you need to do; namely, learn the fate of the Hwarang. Understandably, they are still deeply entrenched in the war and whatever outcome that awaits them. 

“Don’t think that I’m unaware of your concern for the Hwarang men’s safety,” he says abruptly. “If you want to see them so badly, then it is pertinent for you to exercise patience. If you become restless and enter conflict too hastily, then you’ll die before you get a chance to reunite with them. Impatience is unbecoming and I believe your ancestors wouldn’t wish that upon you.” 

“You’re right…” You murmur, coming to realize what he’s been saying. Jisoo is often blunt, if not outright rude. But he’s speaking honestly, and you can tell he’s genuinely worried for your well-being. That, you know for sure. “Thank you for looking out for me.” 

“Well, with your penchant for recklessness, it is a necessity.” He hums. 

“Recklessness?!” 

“How else could I describe it?” A grin grows on his lips. “You have no means of reaching Namhansanseong by yourself.” Although he’s chiding you once again, you find his delivery endearing, his words snaking their way into your heart. 

“Minhyun said the same thing that you did, Jisoo.” You say slowly, “he said that we have no way of knowing whether or not the Hwarang men will still be there by the time we arrive, so I should wait. I suppose we will have to until we know for sure…” 

His eyes scan you, thinning with satisfaction, “Glad to see you’ve wisened up by taking my advice to heart. Obedience is a good look on you, you’re well on your way to becoming a good wife.” 

“Way to miss the point!” You huff, cheeks warming as you speak again, “Besides, I’m not your wife.” 

After scoffing at his suggestion, you tun to get one last glimpse of the scenery around you. All you want is to reunite with the Hwarang, but now you can’t bear the thought of letting the deaths of your paternal parents, Jinsang, and Ahro be in vain by wasting your life so wantonly. You have to make absolutely sure to pick and choose your battles. 

As you leave the village, you put the image of the charred ruins behind you, instead carrying the resolve to honor your people and their sacrifice.

𝔇𝔢𝔠𝔢𝔪𝔟𝔢𝔯 15𝔱𝔥, 666 – 𝔊𝔢𝔲𝔪𝔧𝔦, 𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤𝔡𝔬𝔪 𝔬𝔣 𝔊𝔬𝔤𝔲𝔯𝔶𝔢𝔬 After staying in the village on the route to Namhansanseong for a while, it’s found out that the Hwarang have made it to their destination in record time. Yet, the battle had been short lived, Goguryeo surrendered swiftly, wanting to save their men for the final affront from Silla on their own doorstep. You’re now unsure of the Hwarang’s whereabouts, only waiting anxiously as you and Jisoo spot Minhyun walking down the well-worn path towards you. 

“I have discovered their location,” he says quietly. He takes a deep breath and speaks somberly, “Allegedly, Boo Seungkwan, has passed away from illness in Sabi. As for Choi Hansol, he was last seen leading a battalion of men at Wangnam Pass, and has been missing in action. We can only assume the worst…” 

Your stomach sinks like a stone into the ocean. Suddenly, your breaths are shallow and staggered, they are… gone. Two of the most talented warriors in the Hwarang are now nothing more than just a faint memory, fading against the tide of time. 

“Wen Junhui, who had been reported to have left the Hwarang, is also missing in action.” You bite your lip. Is he safe? Are any of them safe? “Choi Seungcheol and Kwon Soonyoung, both of whom led the Fury Corps under the Hwarang, were killed in combat in Cholsan fighting Goguryeo soldiers.” 

“Seungcheol and Soonyoung too?!” You cry out. 

“The Goguryeo army was likely briefed of their use of the Furies and their weaknesses by Jinsang…” Jisoo sighs. 

Their deaths are difficult to take in as you swirl already in a pit of despair. They’d willingly gave up their humanity to become Furies, and not even that could save them. 

“What about the others?” You ask, looking at Minhyun. 

“Thankfully for you, Lee Jihoon lives and is en route to Pyongyang with his remaining men. They’re actually leaving from the port here later today…” 

“Today?!” Your eyes shoot open, looking towards the hill that leads down to the docks brimming along the town’s waterfront. 

“Did I hear correctly?” Jisoo questions, “Even with his men gone? That little dog still has some bite, huh?” He’d always been first in line to scorn the Hwarang’s actions, but this is different. His tone leads you to believe the he’s impressed by Jihoon, which is a little strange. 

“So, everyone’s still putting up a fight?” Life for the Hwarang following the Battle of Seorabeol is nothing but one continuous adjustment to loss and victory. Yet, they continue to push forward with their heads high. 

“What reasons have they scraped together to justify continuing on?” Jisoo murmurs, “As I recall, the Crown has never taken favorably to them. I cannot fathom any reason to risk their lives so needlessly. Yet, here they are…” 

“I’m unsure too,” you nod. Yet, you do know one thing. You celebrate internally, knowing their spirits are unbroken in the light of loss. 

“Speaking as an outsider,” Jisoo adds, “All they’re doing is hopping from one burial ground to the next. Can you honestly tell me that this is the future they envisioned for themselves?” 

“Yes…” Their steadfast dedication on the battlefield is a monument to the courage and principles of their fallen comrades. 

“Do you plan on following them to Pyongyang as well?” Minhyun questions. 

“Yes,” you nod, “The Commander may be unaware of the news that some of the captains have passed away…” 

With Seungkwan having died in Sabi and Mingyu in Fuyu, it’s unclear to you if word of their passing has reached him. It’s your duty to honor their memory by telling Jihoon yourself. 

Your eyes shift to Jisoo, “I want to travel to Pyongyang and meet up with whoever’s left.” Before you continue, you take a moment to calculate what you wish to say, “Would it be too much to ask if you’d join me?” 

“Me?” His eyes widen in surprise, “Go along with you?” 

“Yes,” you nod somberly, “Even if it will be a victory for Silla, I have a gut feeling that this is the end for the Hwarang.” No battlefields had been left untouched by the vicious torrents of the war, and Pyongyang stands as the decisive scene in your Kingdom’s most tumultuous chapter. “I, um, I guess that’s even more of a reason why I… I want to travel together, Jisoo. I want you with me when I witness the end of the Hwarang.” 

It’s surreal, if not strangely appropriate, of you to ask such a thing of him. Yet, because Jisoo’s been involved in so many duels with them over the years, you want him to bear witness to what could possibly be the Hwarang’s final, intimate moments. 

He listens intently, and when you finish speaking, his lips curl into a smug grin, “The ‘end’ for them, you say…? What an enticing offer.” 

“Thank you,” you’re flushed with relief at his acceptance. It’s felt like ages since anyone has been able to coax a sincere smile from you. 

“I suppose that means we’ll be off…” Jisoo says, waving a short goodbye to Minhyun. “It will be faster to sail there than to walk…” 

“Thank you, Minhyun, I hope to see you again soon,” you say, beginning to turn around before he stops you. 

“Hold on, there’s someone here who wants to speak with you.” 

Turning back around, you’re met with both the visages of Hwan Minhyun and Xu Minghao. 

“It looks like you’ve made it in one piece,” Minghao notes with a smile. 

“Minghao!” You call out, “What are you doing here?”

 “I just came to bring you something,” he says, reaching for a sword on his waist. You have trouble looking at it properly until he holds the sheathed metal out to you, and you can finally read the inscription on the sheath. 

“Is that… Mingyu’s?” You ask, reaching out for the leather holster.

 “It is,” he nods slowly, “I was unable to reach the Hwarang in time. If he had lived, I believe he’d still be here fighting by everyone’s side. He was tenacious.” 

Grabbing hold of the memento, you securely strap the sheathe onto you, letting it rest next to your own blade. The added weight feels as if you’re carrying along his legacy with you. 

“You’re an ally of Goguryeo, are you not?” Jisoo asks Minghao. 

“Like hell I am,” he scoffs, “I only answer to Baekje. Human history is only written by the victors, and everyone else is cast into the dirt. So, far be it from me to let their history speak for me.” 

“Smells like bullshit to me,” Jisoo hums. 

Minghao grimaces playfully at the other, then turns to face you, “You still plan on following after those Hwarang of yours, right?” 

“I hope to,” you nod. 

“Tell them that Kim was one of the bravest, most ferocious warriors I’ve ever met,” Minghao says with a smile. 

“Minghao…” Praising humans isn’t exactly one of his habits, especially to the degree he’s described Mingyu. Imagining what he must have witnessed with Mingyu moves you almost as much as it must have moved him, a bittersweet warmth swells in your chest. 

“Understood, I’ll pass on the word.”

Jisoo sighs, “Don’t bother. Isn’t this just another worm you’ve let crawl into your insipid heart?”

 “Well, look who’s talking. Who was it exactly that you came all the way here for?” Minghao pokes, “I bet you’re just as curious in seeing what’s going to happen to the Hwarang.” 

“Hardly. I am but a passenger of circumstance, which has taken me on the same path as them.” He shakes his head, “Enough wasting time, we have a ship to catch.” 

“Okay,” you nod and turn to the other Demons. “Minghao, Minhyun, please take care of yourselves.”

 As you bid the two of them farewell, Jisoo and you see yourselves out to port. Once arriving, you find the harbor to be eerily quiet.

 “Have they already left?” You wonder aloud, not seeing many people bustling around.

 “It appears as though the boat has already left the harbor…” Jisoo looks to the western ocean, “I believe we just missed them. They couldn’t have gotten far, so we may be able to see their boat. Do you want to try?”

 “Of course. Let’s go.”

 Jisoo and you ascend a nearby beach bluff where you hope to get a clearer view. A cascade of maroon ripples across the vast sea in a reflection of the wide sunset, and in the distance, you watch the shadow of a boat on the horizon.

 “Do you think that’s them?” You ask Jisoo as you squint from the light on the water.

 “I believe so.”

 You had traveled two Kingdoms searching for them. Now, once again, you have just barely missed them, left in the dust. A sharp pang shoots up through your nose and suddenly you find yourself fighting back a wave of tears. Your teeth dig into your lower lip, hoping to not let this deluge of self-pity come to the surface.

 “If you want to cry so badly, why don’t you?” Jisoo asks.

 “No…” You shake your head, the tears still welling up in your eyes. “Only because I can imagine how much pain they’re in right now… I have no right to shed tears when it’s not me who’s fighting out there.”

 Jisoo sighs out of frustration and closes his eyes, pausing as he shifts back and forth, “You know, just because you’re not good with a sword doesn’t mean you’re not fighting. Although your methods are quite different from the Hwarang’s, you’ve had your own demons to fight. Even I’ve noticed it.”

 It feels warm to hear his gentle words acknowledging how much you’ve been through.

 After seeing your father’s death, your lukewarm reunion with Ahro and visiting the village of your birth. Then your revelation of what had occurred to your friends. A tempest of grief gathered its winds in your heart, continuing to swirl with fervor as you try now not to collapse. 

You can’t cry… If you do, then you’ll blur your sight of the ship that houses the remainder of your friends in the Hwarang. 

“I’ll turn around if you’d like. Cry as much as you wish.”  Jisoo points his nose towards the ocean, which glows with hues of orange and gold under the glimmer of the late afternoon. 

In this moment, the levee holding back your tears bursts. Your forehead presses against Jisoo’s back, hands grabbing hold as well. Wailing as quietly as you can, you lament them once again slipping through your fingers. The ship begins to vanish beyond the horizon, sailing into the ocean’s furthest tendrils. Soon, it disappears from sight. You listen to the roar of the ocean for a moment before Jisoo speaks, 

“I promise you… I will take you to them.” His voice low, yet urging, “Just be patient… okay?” 

Jisoo, who previously seemed hell bent on abducting you at any cost from the Hwarang…. Now the shoe is on the other foot, and he’s promised to keep you safe on this last journey. Although, you’re unsure of when it’ll actually happen.

[xoxotria]

after you | h.js

theme: angst, post break-up

“where did all those feelings go? people spend their whole lives looking for love. poems and songs and entire novels are written about it. but how can you trust something that can end as suddenly as it begins?” - the sun is also a star by nicola yoon

.　 . • ☆ . ° .• °:. *₊ ° . ☆

it had been roughly a few months since your break up with joshua. it was a messy breakup with no real closure. you had a nasty fight that resulted in him breaking up with you and leaving your apartment angrily leaving you dazed at how the situation escalated that fast.

“yes, jun. i know.”

you had been on the phone with jun as you double checked if the last items of joshua’s stuff that he left in your apartment was in the box. he had reached out a day ago asking if he could pick up the stuff he had left behind—all of it were things he could easily replace; his macbook charger, a few formal shirts, pajamas, house slippers, a coffee mug, a pair of work shoes, and a pair of fluffy slippers.

“it’s just weird how he reached out just to get stuff out of the blue when he’s been no contact with you since you broke up.” jun comments as you shrug.

“maybe his charger broke? i don’t fucking know jun! i’m as confused as you are honestly.” you admit.

it was confusing. joshua was confusing. the entire situation was.

“all i know is that he wants his stuff back and i’d gladly give it all back just so i don’t have to be reminded of his non-existent presence anymore in the apartment.” you grab your phone as joshua’s name pops up on your phone.

love sent you a message. you cursed at the stupid contact name you had yet to change.

“he’s there already?” jun asks as you nod typing furiously on your phone.

“yeah. i gotta go jun. i’ll call you later okay?” you exit your messages to see jun nodding on screen.

“you better. talk to you later—hey, it’s gonna be alright. you got this.” jun reassures you as you smile at him.

jun was your best-friend. he knows just from your breathing if something was wrong with you. he was there after you sobbed into your phone after it sunk in that you and joshua had broken up. he picked up the pieces of a heart he didn’t even break. you were eternally grateful for him.

“thanks jun. call you later. bye!” you smile as you waved him goodbye.

“okay, bye!”

your nerves disappeared with jun’s words just as your doorbell rang, getting up from the seat by the kitchen counter you made your way over to the door. you didn’t bother asking who it was opening the door fully to come face to face with the man you once loved—still love.

“hi.” he greets a small smile on his face that doesn’t reach his eyes the way it used to.

a rush of emotions surfaced as you caught sight of him for the first time since you broke up. he looked tired—the bags under his eyes telling you he’d been having trouble sleeping, his hair was messy a rough contrast to the well maintained hairstyle he used to have, and the timid expression on his face reminded you of the time you first went on a date.

you missed him. you missed your joshua. setting your thoughts aside you move over to make way for him to enter.

“hi, come in. your stuff is on the kitchen counter.” you greet him back with a small smile of your own as he passes by you to enter the kitchen while you close the door behind him following quietly behind him as he looks around your apartment.

it was quiet between you two as you let him glance around whilst you situated yourself behind the kitchen counter where his stuff was. you fiddled with your nails as he glanced over at you.

“all your stuff is here but you can double check if i missed anything.” you gently push the box towards him as he sits on the stool opening the box.

you watched as he pulled out the random trinkets he gifted you for your apartment, his shirts, and charger as you caught sight of the silver of the matching rings you had hanging on a chain on his neck.

your breath hitched as you caught sight of it. a million questions ringing in your head as he caught your gaze on the ring.

“everything seems to be here.” he mumbles as he watched you reach out to touch the ring.

he felt her fingers ghost over the skin on his chest missing her touch which she longed so long to feel again but as he did she pulled away clutching her hand to her chest.

“sorry, i didn’t realize what i was doing.” she stutters as she avoided eye contact with him.

she wanted to smack her head against the counter for being so stupid. just as she was cursing herself in her head she heard joshua say something that causes her to heart to stop.

“i missed you.”

he said it so quietly, she almost didn’t hear it. he missed her? what the fuck was happening?

she wanted to be happy but the unresolved tensions of the night of their break up had bubbled back up to the surface and without realizing the words that slipped out of her mouth—she was going to give him a piece of her mind.

“4 months joshua. 4 months of no contact after storming out and breaking up with me! now you missed me? do you know how unfair it was? to not even have a chance to reason with you for breaking up with me just like that? you didn’t even give me the reason why! you stormed out before i even got the chance to.” she could feel the anger she held in her heart come pouring out.

she wanted him to know what it felt. how hurt and betrayed she was after he cut her off for months.

“i deserved more than that. yet why is it that despite everything you were what i was looking for when i came home, when i wake up in the morning, when i cross the streets, when i shop for groceries, when i see a black sedan drive past me when i’m outside? i see you even in the most mundane things i do, josh.” her eyes glistened with tears as he stared at her with an unreadable expression on his face.

“i loved you josh. fuck—i still do! i love you. i love you. i’ll write it in the skies. in the seas. on paper. it has always been you joshua. from the moment we first met. it’s the most maddening, beguiling, damnable thing but it’s true. i’m so in love with you still.”

he stared at her watching as she broke down infront of him. his chest aching from being so stupid for leaving her like that. he needed to make things right because when he was with her everything felt right.

“please say something,” she whispers.

his throat tightens as she drops her face into her hands sobs leaving her body.

she heard his footsteps before she realized that his arms wrapped around her torso.

“i’m so sorry darling.” he whispers into the crook of her neck, his grip around her torso tightening. “i was being irrational and my nerves were shot from fighting. i hurt you when i promised you i wouldn’t.”

she could feel the warmth of his hands through the shirt she wore, encircling her arms around his pressing herself against him. despite the resentment she had built up from their breakup, she couldn’t help but love him still.

“i’ll give you the world. the moon. the stars. the entire fucking universe. anything you ask for, it’s yours. i’m yours because i love you. i still want to live in the mountains with you as you paint on our balcony, to wake up every day with you beside me, to feel you against my body as i whisper and make you feel how much i love you. ”

she couldn’t take it anymore, removing herself from his embrace and cupping his cheeks. she looks up at him a smile on her face. his favorite sight.

“you’re such an idiot but i love you.” she chokes out through her tears.

he kisses her forehead as her eyes flutter shut.

“i love you.” he whispers repeatedly as his lips brushes over hers, like a prayer.

his hands wrap around the back of her neck as he brings her forward. his lips meet hers in a soft kiss. he broke away, their breaths heavy. joshua’s lips pepper kisses on her cheeks, her jaw, and her neck before pulling away to gaze into her eyes.

they knew what each other was feeling without having to put it into words. their eyes communicated a million words without having to.

“you have me—all of me. i’m yours in this life and all our lives after that. i am never letting you go again.”

she looked at joshua lovingly. when her lips meets his again, it was as if every piece of longing disappears and every uncertainty evaporates. he knew then there would never be an after you because no matter what he would always comeback to you.

[animeniacss]

Go to Bed - Joshua Hong x Reader One-Shot

Synopsis: Joshua encouraged you to get some sleep. When you refuse, Joshua's silly side leads to a little playfulness before bed.

Genre: Established Relationship, Romance, Fluff, One-shot, Bedtime (I thought of this at 12:30 a.m. one night and couldn't sleep until I wrote it.)

Length: approx. 950 words

Go to Bed - Joshua x Reader One-shot

"Go to bed."

"No."

Joshua eyes you from his spot in the bathroom, toothbrush in hand. Your comment causes him to pause in his attempt to brush his teeth for just a moment.

"It's late."

"I'm not tired."

"We have work tomorrow." Joshua sticks the toothbrush in his mouth, but you don't budge from your spot on the bed. He watched you scroll your phone, grinning at whatever had your attention with each passing second. As he set his toothbrush down, spitting into the sink, he knew he had a mission.

You were not alerted to Joshua at the end of the bed until you finally set your phone down a few minutes later. He offers you a grin but there's a devilish glint behind his eyes. "What?" You asked, propping yourself on your elbows to get a better look at him.

No response. You cock an eyebrow. Joshua is only looking in your direction. The silence builds for a few seconds, until...

Joshua flings himself onto the bed, a fist waving overhead. You grin as Joshua flails the fist in your direction, making the most accurate of fighter pilot missile noises. He lands on the bed, completely missing you as intended, but his fist still lands right beside your head. Unable to hold it back anymore, you begin laughing.

"What is wrong with you?" You asked, sitting up fully to get a better look at him. Joshua rolls over, propping himself on his side to look up at you. He's also grinning, and it only makes you grin more.

"If you don't want to sleep, let's play." He said. Joshua popped up on the bed before you could ask which form of play he meant. It shakes a bit, and instantly you know. His hands come up like they're going to snatch at you.

"Shuaaa." You defensively raise your hands in front of you, but that's exactly what he wants. His hands lunge forward, grabbing your wrist. You scream in excitement, falling back on the bed and Joshua playfully wrestles you down, hovering over you. "Shua!"

"I. Win." He said, smug as ever. Who knew such a handsome face could hide such mischief? You laugh as you tug at your arms, but Joshua often goes to the gym with his buddies. He'll never let you forget his strength, holding your wrists back with seemingly no effort. You laugh, raising your arms above your head and finally getting them free. "Wh- HEY!" He grins.

You roll away as quickly as you can. Joshua sits up, grabbing you by the waist and pulling you close. You can barely laugh as he slips a peck on your cheek, assuring you this was all in good fun. When you turn to return the favor, you're met with a smirk on his lips. "Oh, fuck."

Joshua is quick to get the upper hand again as his arms snake around your waist. You feel him brush against your stomach and shiver, attempting to squirm away. "Oh no, no, no."

"Mhm. Mhm mhm. There's no escape." He said. You grab a pillow to your side, flinging it behind you. A laugh rumbles your belly as Joshua gasps. "Ow! Completely unfair!" His hands stop moving around your stomach but still hold you tight as you turn back to him.

"100 percent fair!" You shouted.

"No!"

"Absolutely!" You grin. Joshua responds only with a pout, to which you respond by finally giving him a peck on the nose. "That does not work on me, Joshua Hong."

"Wounded. I'm hurt." Joshua finally releases you, putting his hands on his heart. You watch him fall to his side, hanging off the bed as if he were dying in a blockbuster movie scene. When he heard you laugh, he poked his head up. "I'm glad you find my death funny."

"Oscar-worthy, even." You grin. Joshua sits back up with your help, finally allowing the two of you to give a real kiss. You smile at him, and he returns it.

When two hands grip your waist, you gasp. Laughter riddled your body as Joshua began dancing his fingers along your stomach like keys on a keyboard. "You tricked me!" You gasped, grinning behind a sea of laughter. No attempt at squirming could protect you now. You were his toy, free to control the amount of laughter that left your body as you roared in laughter.

It was music to his ears, so he kept on playing. "I did no such thing." He said smugly. Finally, he released you, allowing you to catch your breath. You watched as he flung himself back on his side of the bed, crossing his arms. You lied back as well, pulling the blankets up over you. Joshua laughed a bit as you made sure to bundle yourself up.

"You look like an armadillo." He pointed out.

"Good. I'll use my shell to protect me from the harsh outer world." When you hid your head under the blanket, you heard Joshua laugh. The bed shifted again before he tugged the blanket down somewhat to reveal your face. You looked up at him, and his smile had finally lost its playful mischievousness. It was instead gentle, and comforting.

"Aww, I'm sorry." He said. "Want to watch some TV?"

You immediately turned your head, recovering yourself in your armadillo-like shell. Joshua whined when you heard your comment.

"No. Go to bed, Joshua. It's late." Before tossing the blanket over him. He groaned in annoyance at his directions being thrown back at him. However, he did not fight, rolling over to turn off the light.

Even in the dark, you felt his hands grab you, only this time, it was to pull you close, plant a kiss on your forehead, and wish you sweet dreams. 

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[lilydaisylily]

Hi, so umm this is my 2nd writing, which has a lot of wording from the previous one. I'm still learning and trying to put the perfect word for this story and I hope you enjoy it!

Lots of love,

Lily♡

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Title: I love you (part 1)

Pairing: Choi Seungcheol x Y/N (readers)

Genre: Angst, smut

Thanks and happy reading!

Do not copy. All right reserved.

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"Congratulation to Svt Inc. for winning their nth win-"

You don't know how many awards there is that Svt Inc. have won for this past 2 weeks. You tried to avoid taking part in any of them as Choi Seungcheol, the Svt Inc.'s president/CEO and your now ex boyfriend, just broke up with you over a very heartbroken breakup.

"Y/N, I think I can't do this anymore."

You stop everything that you do when you heard his voice through the call that you've answered.

"What do you mean by that, Cheollie?" You tried to sound clueless with his sudden statement although you always knew that this day will come biting you anytime soon. You already felt something was off when many days back, he tried to avoid as many skinship as possible between the two of you.

From your experience dating him for almost 2 years now, Choi Seungcheol that you knew will not let any hand holding and pecking your lips when you two meet up to go to waste. He will ALWAYS, ALWAYS be the one whose most eager to do so. But these past few days makes you wonder where on earth does this relationship went wrong as the both of you are giving a balanced give and take part between each other.

Both of you are the most peaceful and harmonized couple there is, based on what other Svt Inc.'s bosses slash Seungcheol's best friends and your own besties said. So where is the fault in this relationship that has grown you and Seungcheol apart, you wonder.

"I don't think I want to continue this relationship with you anymore, Kim Y/N." Seungcheol stated the very sentence that break your heart into pieces.

"Why are saying this? Don't you love me anymore?" You tried very hard to hold back your tears as you questioned him.

There's a moment of silent on the other side of the line and you knew that this will be the final goodbye. "May I know the reason why you are doing this?" You asked him softly to avoid any more heart break.

"I just don't feel the same for you anymore, y/n-ya. I tried to mend it, tried to salvage any love that I have left for you, but I just can't. The love is gone, y/n, and the last thing I want is to hurt you because of me. That's why I'm being honest with you right now to avoid any more hurt between us in the future."

"Is that all the reason you can think of? Just like that? How can you think you hurt me less with whatever bullshit that you're saying right now?"

Still greeted with a silent moment from the other side that you've decided to just end this drama once and for all.

With a freshly shattered heart, you muster up any little energy that you have left and said the final word to him,

"I always thought or tried to think that you need your own space, which I respect that and give in to you always. But turns out I was wrong,"

You pause your word for a second before continue.

"I always thought that we can be like this forever. Gosh, maybe forever is never going to be enough for us. You have no idea how many times do I always think to settle down with you, knowing that I have never fall in love this deep with anybody else other than you. If you think that being honest with me like this won't hurt me, well, let me tell you that it hurts like hell, Cheol-ah. You broke my heart, Choi Seungcheol. You really did. If you really want this to be over between us, that you have no more feelings for me, then I have no other words to say to you. But let me make this clear. It is you who want to end this, and I hope you won't regret it, Choi Seungcheol. I knew there is a new owner of your heart now, and I fully understand. Thank you for the past 2 years, Choi Seungcheol. I hope you find your freedom and happiness you've always dream of. Sorry for everything."

That was the very last words from you and you end the call before he can even revert.

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It's been over 2 weeks after the breakup call and Choi Seungcheol's dark circle becoming even more visible and obvious.

"Dude, you look terrible." Kwon Soonyoung, one of the big bosses at Svt Inc. that just come by to put whatever award that he received on behalf of this soon-to-be-panda on the award shelves.

Another footsteps heard coming from the door revealing Joshua and Jeonghan, the dashing duo whom looked alike, and think so much alike too.

"What on earth are you guys doing here exactly?" Sighing, Seungcheol lean on his dark blue leather chair, closing his eyes.

"Well, we're here to beat some sense in you of course. You know, after the UNANNOUNCED breakup call." Mingyu suddenly popped out of nowhere and voiced out his utmost discontent. "How could you do this to her, hyung? She's my best friend for god sake!" He continued.

"Cut it off, Gyu. I've heard enough of this." Warn Seungcheol. After the breakup call, he told all the other 12 friends of his and well, the news did not settle well between them. Honestly, it did not settle well with himself too. He's feeling somewhat discomfort and unsettling regret after the final words that you've said on that day. He keeps on replaying your words over and over again until he's losing sleep, resulting to his current dark circle.

"I just want to know one thing, though. Why on earth are you breaking up with Y/N exactly? It can't be because of your slutty, shitty little new secretary right?" The question asked by Joshua really hit the nail on the head.

Silence engulfed the spacious space, leaving only some soft murmur from the people working outside to be heard.

"It does related to that, huh? How could you, hyung? Does Y/N still not enough for you? She's beautiful, smart, funny, kind hearted, and shit, she's hella cool CEO too for god sake! What more could you ask for?" Mingyu snarled.

"Gyu has a point, Cheol-ah. Compared to that slutty secretary, Y/N obviously the winner here. That Jessica can only provide you temporary happiness while she's counting your money along the way. And from my calculation, you'll regret losing Y/N in the end, and that my friend, is a statement and you can count on my words." Said Jeonghan, smirking.

"Are you guys done?" Seungcheol opened his eyes and sigh, again.

After all the bosses retreating back to their offices, Jessica knock on Seungcheol's door and proceed to open it after she got a response from the man inside.

Closing the door and locked it, she's making her way to Seungcheol's desk, swaying her hips while unbuttoning her tight shirt's top two button to reveal her luscious cleavage.

Seungcheol eyes turned into a shade darker with lust, following her every move.

"You seems so stressed out, baby." Stopping behind his big chair, Jessica's slender fingers starting to massage Seungcheol's tense shoulder while having one hand unbuttoning his shirt. Seungcheol close his eyes as a burning sensation starting to pool around his stomach with every little touch from Jessica on his body.

"Let me make you feel better, baby." Jessica whisper a sultry remarks to Seungcheol's ear and soon soft moan and growl can be heard in the room.

Jessica is stradlling Seungcheol's lap while making out. The sexy moan that comes out from Jessica's mouth makes Seungcheol loosing his control and her grinding on his crotch is not helping. He rips her blouse apart and skillfully unhooked her bra, tossing it after. Her delicious tits comes in view and Seungcheol's head is clouded with strong desire to fuck her until she know nothing than to scream his name.

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Your hardly gained good night sleep is rudely interrupted by the sound of the bell ringing endlessly. Whoever that is at the door better have some good thing to say or else, you are going berserk. Tiredly dragging your body out of the bed, you checked your monitor screen before unlocking your door.

"What do you guys want?" You open up the door for Mingyu, Wonwoo and Bethany to step in and make themselves at home.

"Well, we are here to drag you out of course! You've been in this cave for long enough and I'm -well, we, are going to take you out for some sunshine and it looks to me that you really need some." Said Bethany while proceed to open your wall-length curtain that blocking the Sun from gracing your penthouse.

"I'm fine here Beth, don't worry." You said softly while yawning.

"You are not okay sweetheart, and we know it. I know you purposely avoiding office to avoid meeting that dumbass Seungcheol hyung. But you need to get out from here or else you'll get sick!" Mingyu stating his concern as you have become so quiet these past few weeks and it bothers him a lot.

Wonwoo's unsuccessful attempt to drag you out last week has brought him to bring these two people to his rescue as he know you can't ressist them no matter the excuse is.

Sighing, you just let Beth to drag you back into your room while bossing you to go take a shower. After making sure your water is running, Bethany proceed to your walk-in wardrobe to choose your outfit for today's outing.

A cute summer dress with puff sleeve has come to her view and she knows it will complement your figure perfectly.

Right on cue, the bathroom door opened, revealing your freshen up figure. Beth pull your hand and make you sit infront of your vanity table to doll you up. She told you to wear that summer dress she chose and you're giving her a-are you joking-look.

"What? Its pink, its cute and its perfect! I know my taste babygirl and you have to wear it! No excuse accepted." After touching up your makeup and boss you around some more, she exit your room for you to change your clothes.

"Do you think this is a good idea?" A bit of reluctant shading Wonwoo's eyes as he's afraid you won't agree with this plan that they arranged for you.

"She need to get back to her usual happy self, hyung or else her parents will kill us! They knew what happened between her and that dumbass of a hyung and they are not letting it escaping their mind, knowing their only daughter being hurt." Wonwoo and Beth can't help but to agree on Mingyu's statement.

You guys are close to each other because of your families's relationship. All family related with each other businesses and you guys can't help to be the best of friend because of that.

In the next second, the door of your room opened, revealing you in an outfit that will make all eyes on you in a good way possible. You are styling the pink summer dress Beth has chosen for you with a white bow gracing your low wavy ponytail, a cute white beads earring and a mini pink Dior leather handbag.

All your three best friend stunned for a while and you heard Mingyu said "If you looked THIS good before you start being my best friend, I might make you my girlfriend, babe. I really want to know what on earth does Cheol hyung think to breakup with you like that. Urghh, it's still pissing me off!" He grunted.

You tried to ignore Mingyu's remark about Seungcheol to avoid any more tears coming out from your already tired eyes.

"Where are guys taking me?"

Beth, Mingyu and Wonwoo's face suddenly sparkling up when you popped out the question and a naughty cheeky smile starting to grace their lips.

Mingyu and Wonwoo both making their ways to you and hooked their arm with yours, as a way of trapping you.

"You, my pretty girl, will be going on a date with someone we've arranged at a fancy cute cafe, where perhaps that cold heart of yours will be bloomed and happy again." Beth happily stating the idea and you starting to struggle out from those both muscular giant's grasp.

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1 | 2

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Stay tuned!

Thank you for reading!

I love you guys!♡

[thedensworld]

Make All Easier | H. Js

Genre: fluff, dad au!

Summary: He always picture you and him to be a parent of daughter. So when your baby daughter was born, he already knew what to do and it makes everything easier.

Author note: Hi! I'm available to tip now, send me Jeans👖 here on ko-fi🤍

Jisoo felt a tiny hand slap his face as he was peacefully sleeping. A smile crept onto his lips even before he opened his eyes, the familiar squeals of his 10-month-old daughter echoing softly in the quiet room. As he finally blinked his eyes open, he saw her sitting upright on the bed, her chubby hands patting his chest as she babbled incoherently, demanding attention. No one was ready to play at 6:30 a.m. except for little Yuri.

Chuckling, Jisoo stretched out his arms, lifting her into the air before settling her onto his stomach. She let out a delighted squeal, her laughter filling the room like music. "Good morning, princess," he murmured, brushing her fluffy hair out of her eyes as she wiggled happily.

Last night came to mind—he remembered bringing Yuri to bed after her midnight cries echoed through the house. Both you and Jisoo had stirred awake, but before you could even swing your legs off the bed, Jisoo had already sat up, saying, "I'll handle it," in a sleepy but determined voice.

"What's wrong, Yuri?" he had asked gently as he approached her crib, her tiny face scrunched up in distress. The moment her teary eyes spotted him, her cries softened to sniffles. Jisoo picked her up, her small body melting into his chest as if that was all she needed to feel safe. After changing her diaper and preparing a bottle of formula in the dimly lit kitchen, he carried her back to bed. Yuri had quickly fallen asleep in the middle of the bed, sandwiched securely between her parents.

Now, as the early morning light filtered through the curtains, you stirred beside him, your voice soft and groggy. "Who's this little troublemaker..." you mumbled, squinting at Yuri as she crawled toward you.

The moment Yuri heard your voice, her babbling turned into excited squeals, and she wriggled out of Jisoo’s arms to reach you. Giggling, you scooped her up and brought her closer. "Why are you up so early, hm?" you asked, your voice playful as you nuzzled your face into her soft, round belly. Yuri's laughter erupted, a pure, joyous sound that warmed your heart.

"Why don't we all go back to sleep, baby?" you whispered, laying her down beside you and wrapping her in a warm embrace. But being an active and curious 10-month-old, Yuri had other plans. She squirmed free almost immediately, crawling over you and Jisoo with boundless energy.

Jisoo propped himself up on one elbow, watching the scene unfold with a grin. "Yuri, are you that excited already?" he teased, leaning in to tap her nose gently. She responded with more babbles, her tiny hands flailing as if trying to explain her morning enthusiasm.

"Alright, alright," Jisoo chuckled, sitting up and scooping her into his arms. "Let’s let Mom sleep a little more while we go grab some breakfast, okay?" Yuri’s eyes sparkled, as if she understood her father’s plan.

Jisoo placed Yuri gently into her highchair, securing her in place before sliding it up beside the kitchen counter. Her tiny hands smacked the tray enthusiastically, babbling as her big eyes followed his every move. Jisoo smiled at her, responding to her every sound with a soft laugh or a playful "What’s that, princess?" as he prepared her breakfast.

He pulled out a perfectly ripe avocado and sliced it while waiting for the toast to pop up from the toaster. Humming softly, he scrambled an egg for protein, plating everything neatly for Yuri. Her small squeals of excitement filled the kitchen as she watched him work.

Moments later, you emerged from the bedroom, still a bit groggy but ready to help out with breakfast. Stretching as you entered the kitchen, you smiled at the scene before you: Jisoo fussing over Yuri, who was happily babbling away in her highchair.

"Do we have any veggies, babe?" Jisoo asked, peering into the fridge as he looked for something to add to Yuri’s meal.

You joined him at the fridge, pulling out a bunch of broccoli. "I’ll steam these for you. Avocado toast?" you asked, gesturing to the stack of avocados on the counter, too sleepy to consider a more complicated breakfast option.

Jisoo laughed, catching the subtle tiredness in your voice. "Sure, babe. That works. I'll pop some bread in the toaster for us."

Your heart softened at his thoughtful offer, and you leaned in for a quick kiss. He smiled into the kiss, but before he could say anything, Yuri squealed loudly, her little arms flailing in excitement. She loved seeing her parents share affection.

"Mama! Mama!" Yuri called out, her bright voice making both of you laugh.

Jisoo turned to her with an exaggerated look of surprise. "Papa!" he said, pointing to himself and trying once again to coax her into saying his name. This wasn’t the first time he’d tried, but Yuri seemed determined to make him wait.

Yuri stared at him with a mischievous smile, her little cheeks puffing up with glee. Jisoo sighed dramatically, leaning over to press a kiss to her temple. "I’m convinced she’s holding back on purpose," he said, turning back to you with a grin.

You chuckled, finishing up the eggs and setting them on the toast. "She definitely knows how to mess with you," you teased, sliding the toast onto a plate.

Jisoo propped his elbow on the counter, smirking. "Wonder where she got that attitude from," he mumbled playfully, his gaze flicking to you.

"Careful," you said with mock sternness, laughing as you pulled the steamed broccoli out and set some on Yuri’s tray. You grabbed her plate, placing it on the highchair tray in front of her. "Yuri! Let’s eat," you cooed, pushing her closer to the table.

Jisoo laughed as he followed you to the table, carrying the avocado toast you’d prepared for the two of you. Yuri wasted no time reaching for her food, her little fingers grabbing a piece of broccoli as she babbled happily.

"You want coffee?" Jisoo asked, setting your plate in front of you and leaning down slightly to meet your gaze.

"Sure, thanks," you said with a soft smile, sitting beside Yuri to help her with her breakfast.

As Jisoo brewed the coffee, he glanced back at the two of you. Watching Yuri munch on her broccoli, occasionally glancing at you for reassurance, filled him with warmth.

Jisoo glanced at you with a questioning look when you casually slid one of your toasts onto his plate. "What’s this?" he asked, raising a brow in mild disbelief.

"I’ve had enough," you murmured, taking a slow sip of your coffee, avoiding his gaze.

Jisoo narrowed his eyes slightly, unconvinced. In no universe could his wife, you, have possibly eaten enough already. He knew you too well—you never left food unfinished unless you physically couldn’t eat another bite.

"You sure?" he asked, picking up the toast, his tone teasing but laced with genuine curiosity.

You nodded, quickly redirecting your attention to Yuri, who was happily holding pieces of her soft toast in both hands, her cheeks puffed out as you helped her eat bits of scrambled egg in between.

Jisoo chuckled quietly, still watching you as he finished his food. The three of you remained at the dining table, savoring the cozy morning together while Yuri enjoyed her breakfast. Jisoo couldn’t help but laugh every time Yuri deliberately squished her food between her tiny fingers or smushed it against her highchair tray, giggling as though it was her way of entertaining her parents.

"No, eat it properly," you tried to warn her in your soft yet firm "mom voice," but Yuri wasn’t having it. Her giggles turned into a squeal as she continued playing with her food.

Jisoo leaned back in his chair, stealing glances at you as you sighed and relaxed against the backrest, your eyes wandering to the untouched piece of toast on your plate. He smirked knowingly. You could never leave food uneaten, no matter how much you tried to convince yourself otherwise.

"Eat it, babe," he said with a warm smile, his tone gentle but encouraging.

You let out another sigh, glancing at the toast before mumbling, "I think it’s time."

Jisoo raised his brows, intrigued. "Time for what?" he asked, leaning forward slightly as if to make sure he caught every word.

"Losing weight," you admitted, your tone casual yet tinged with determination. You glanced at him, waiting for his reaction.

Jisoo tilted his head, his brows furrowing slightly. "What’s wrong? You’re perfect," he said sincerely, his voice filled with genuine care.

You shrugged, grabbing a napkin to wipe Yuri’s messy mouth as she continued to babble and grin at both of you. "I know," you said, a small smile tugging at your lips. "It’s just… I think it’s time to get back on track, you know? Focus on myself a little more."

Jisoo nodded, understanding immediately. He wasn’t one to push you, but he always supported your goals, whatever they might be.

"And since Yuri’s started taking formula now," you added, glancing at your daughter, who was happily gnawing on her toast, "it feels like the perfect time to start the drill."

Jisoo’s lips curled into a soft smile as he reached across the table, placing his hand gently over yours. "Whatever you want to do, I’m with you," he said, his voice steady and reassuring. "But just so you know, you’re already amazing as you are."

You smiled back, squeezing his hand lightly. "Thanks," you whispered, feeling the familiar warmth of his support wash over you.

As you gently wiped the crumbs off Yuri’s cheeks, she squirmed in her highchair, babbling excitedly. Her breakfast was a success, as evidenced by the mess she’d created on her tray. You smiled softly, brushing the bits of scrambled egg off her little hands.

Jisoo stood beside the sink, rinsing his plate, and turned his attention to you and Yuri. "Hey," he started, his tone casual but thoughtful, "if you want to hit the gym or go for a workout, I can watch Yuri for a bit."

You glanced up at him, surprised by the offer. "Really? Are you sure?" you asked, carefully unfastening Yuri’s highchair straps and lifting her into your arms.

Jisoo dried his hands on a kitchen towel and walked over to you. "Of course. You’ve been talking about getting back into a routine, and I’ve got no problem keeping an eye on her. Right, Yuri?" He gently poked her tummy, earning a delighted giggle from her.

You chuckled, adjusting Yuri on your hip. "You do realize she’s going to keep you on your toes the whole time, right?"

Jisoo chuckled, "come on, I’m her dad. I’ve got the stamina for this."

"Well, you sound confident. I might just take you up on that."

"Good," Jisoo replied, cradling Yuri in one arm while using the other to brush her hair away from her face. "But seriously, go do something for yourself. Hit the gym, take a yoga class, or even just grab a coffee and relax. I’ve got this."

You smiled at him, the weight of his offer sinking in. "Thanks, babe. I think I’ll take you up on that. I’ve been meaning to check out that new gym a few blocks away."

"If you want to do some cardio, you know I can help, right?" he teased, a playful smirk on his face as he balanced Yuri on his hip.

You turned around, raising an eyebrow at him. "Oh, really? And what exactly are you suggesting, Mr. Hong?"

Jisoo’s wink was shameless, his confidence radiating as he adjusted Yuri in his arms. "I’m just saying, some activities burn just as many calories as running," he quipped, his tone dripping with humor.

You rolled your eyes, trying to suppress the grin tugging at your lips. "Smooth," you muttered, shaking your head

Yuri, oblivious to her father’s cheeky comment, clapped her hands and let out a squeal. "Mama!" she called, pointing toward you as if demanding your attention back.

You walked back over and gently poked her cheek. "See, Yuri? This is why your dad needs babysitting too."

*

Jisoo sat cross-legged on the living room floor after preparing a snack for Yuri. He placed the plate of crackers on the coffee table and handed one to Yuri, who was perched on the couch, her tiny legs swinging and her eyes glued to the TV screen. Jisoo chuckled softly as he noticed she hadn’t even glanced at the snack.

"You really love your Uncle Jun, huh, Yuri?" he said with a smile, leaning over to press a kiss to her chubby little leg. But Yuri remained entranced, captivated by the drama featuring her Jun Uncle that they had been watching since you left for your pilates session.

With an hour and a half until you’d return, Jisoo was determined to keep his promise to you—Yuri would have a great time with him, no distractions. He still felt a twinge of guilt from the last time you left him in charge when he had dozed off on the couch. Yuri, ever the independent little explorer, had ended up playing blocks alone in her room until your voice startled Jisoo awake.

"You know, I can take her to daycare for a couple of hours," you had suggested earlier, sensing Jisoo's exhaustion. But he had been adamant about being responsible. "I’ve got this," he assured you, wanting to prove that he could handle fatherhood without shortcuts.

Now, here he was, spending quality time with Yuri in front of the TV, though he couldn’t help but notice how absorbed she was in Jun’s drama.

"Yuri, what’s so special about Uncle Jun? Is he handsome?" Jisoo asked playfully, tilting his head as he observed his little girl. To his utter surprise, Yuri nodded—actually nodded—as if she completely understood the question.

Jisoo gasped in mock betrayal. "Seriously? How about Papa? I’m handsome too, you know," he teased, his tone laced with exaggerated offense.

This time, Yuri’s focus shifted from the screen to him, her wide eyes meeting his.

"Papapapa..." she babbled, her tiny voice causing Jisoo to freeze. Did she just say "Papa"?

Jisoo’s heart nearly burst with excitement as he squatted in front of her, his face lit with anticipation. "Say it again, Yuri. Come on, say Papa!" he urged, his voice filled with hope.

But Yuri, ever the mischievous one, smiled sweetly and babbled, "Mamamama…"

Jisoo groaned dramatically, flopping backward onto the floor as Yuri giggled at his reaction. "Unbelievable," he muttered, shaking his head while his daughter clapped her hands, clearly enjoying her father’s antics.

"Your Mama’s going to love this," Jisoo said with a laugh, reaching over to hand Yuri another cracker. Though she still seemed more interested in the TV, he couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride. Even if she didn’t say "Papa" again just yet, moments like these made every second of fatherhood worth it.

Yuri let out a string of happy chatter as she finished the cracker in her hand. Jisoo, feeling playful and wanting to challenge her, decided to turn the snack into a game. "Get one yourself," he said with a grin, placing another cracker on the coffee table just out of her reach.

Yuri, as if she understood the command, looked at the cracker with determination. She pushed herself up onto her feet, her tiny legs wobbling as she steadied herself. She had been practicing standing and walking for a few steps, often holding onto walls or someone’s hand for support, but she wasn’t quite walking on her own yet.

Jisoo, sensing an opportunity, gently pushed the coffee table a bit further away, encouraging her to try. "Come on, Yuri. You can do it," he coaxed, his tone full of excitement.

Yuri first dropped to her knees and crawled toward the table. As soon as she reached it, she pulled herself up, gripping the edge with her small hands. Jisoo crouched beside her, smiling mischievously. "No crawling this time," he said softly as he gently lifted her back onto her feet.

"Let’s take a step," he said, holding her steady before slowly letting go.

Yuri wobbled, her balance shaky, and she plopped back down onto her diaper with a little thud. Jisoo chuckled but didn’t give up. "Come on, baby girl. Let’s try again. You’ve got this."

With his encouragement, Yuri stood up once more. She teetered as she extended one tiny foot forward, her brows furrowed in concentration. When she managed to take her first step, Jisoo’s face lit up with pure joy. "Yes! That’s my girl!" he cheered, clapping his hands enthusiastically.

Spurred on by her dad’s encouragement, Yuri took another unsteady step, then another. Her little giggles filled the room as she reached the coffee table and grabbed the cracker she had been eyeing. She squealed in triumph, holding it up like a prize.

Jisoo let out a celebratory yell, jumping to his feet. "Yuri, you did it! You walked, baby! You actually walked!" He scooped her up, twirling her around as she laughed in delight, her tiny arms flailing.

Still holding her cracker tightly, Yuri babbled happily as if sharing her victory. Jisoo kissed her chubby cheek, his heart swelling with pride. "Mama’s going to be so proud when she hears this," he said, already imagining how excited you’d be to hear about the milestone.

Jisoo was on a roll. After Yuri's triumphant first steps, he couldn’t help himself—he had to see her do it again. He gently set her down on the floor and placed another cracker a few feet away on the coffee table. "Okay, Yuri, let’s go for round two," he said, clapping his hands in encouragement.

Yuri, still riding the high of her little victory, babbled in delight and reached for him before attempting to stand again. This time, her steps were a little more confident, though still wobbly. She managed three tiny steps before plopping down again, giggling uncontrollably at Jisoo’s over-the-top cheering.

"You’re a natural!" Jisoo laughed, scooping her up for a quick cuddle before setting her down again. "One more time, baby girl. Let’s show Mama just how much you’ve improved!"

The two of them turned the living room into a mini walking practice arena. Jisoo spaced out her favorite toys along the floor, creating little "goals" for her to reach. He moved from one end of the room to the other, encouraging her every time she stumbled or hesitated.

"Come to Papa, Yuri! You can do it!" he called, crouching down with his arms open. Yuri squealed and took a few hesitant steps toward him before collapsing into his embrace. "That’s my girl!" he exclaimed, peppering kisses all over her chubby cheeks.

As the minutes turned into nearly an hour, Jisoo didn’t even notice how much time had passed. He was so focused on helping Yuri improve that he didn’t realize the living room was now strewn with toys, crackers, and a pile of pillows he’d used to soften her landing spots.

*

Jisoo entered the practice room, holding Yuri’s hand as she walked beside him. The one-year-old Yuri was a bit shy, flinching slightly as she was greeted by the chorus of excited voices from the members who were eager to see her.

"My wife will pick her up in an hour," Jisoo informed everyone, explaining why he had to bring Yuri to the practice. However, no one really seemed to pay much attention to his words; they were all too busy fawning over the tiny celebrity of the day.

"It's been so long since I've seen her. I can't believe she’s gotten this big!" Dokyeom exclaimed, lifting Yuri into his arms as she reached out with her little hands, clearly asking to be picked up.

"This is what it feels like to be her favorite," Dokyeom grinned, flexing proudly as Yuri clung to his neck, burying her face into his shoulder.

Meanwhile, Seungkwan stood off to the side, feeling wronged. Yuri had been avoiding him, and worse, she outright refused to be held by him. His pout was noticeable, but the others were too caught up in Yuri’s cuteness to notice.

"You shouldn't come to her like that, Kwan," Soonyoung teased, watching Seungkwan’s failed attempts to hold Yuri.

"Dont act like she likes you more than me," Seungkwan shot back. "We’re on the same stage here."

Just then, the door to the practice room opened, and Jun walked in. As soon as Yuri saw him, her eyes lit up, and she let out a squeal of excitement.

Jisoo sighed, a knowing smile creeping onto his face. "Yuri loves Jun. She’s watched all his dramas."

The statement caught everyone off guard, and Jun himself seemed genuinely surprised by the revelation. He quickly walked over and took Yuri from Dokyeom’s arms, and from that moment on, Yuri’s eyes never left him. Even as practice began, with music playing and choreography being rehearsed, Yuri sat on the couch, content with a snack in her tiny hands.

"Sit here while Papa works, okay?" Jisoo called gently, but Yuri didn’t even glance in his direction. Instead, she shamelessly stared up at Jun, her gaze unwavering as if she was completely captivated by him.

The room fell silent for a moment, everyone watching as Yuri refused to acknowledge Jisoo, only caring about Jun. The contrast between the two was almost too funny. Jisoo couldn't help but shake his head, a mix of amusement and exasperation on his face. "I guess I’ll never be her favorite," he muttered under his breath, earning a few chuckles from the others.

"Looks like Jun hyung is the real star of the show now," Dokyeom teased, and the rest of the members nodded in agreement, still entranced by Yuri's devotion to Jun.

The clock struck 10 PM, signaling that it was well past Yuri’s bedtime. You and Jisoo sat comfortably on the couch, unwinding after a long day. Jisoo had just come home from practice, and after you accompanied him during his late dinner, the two of you decided to share a can of beer. It had become a quiet ritual, a time to share stories about your days and simply enjoy each other's presence.

Jisoo leaned back on the couch, a soft smile playing on his lips as he recounted his day. “The members were so obsessed with Yuri during practice,” he said, chuckling at the memory. “No one could focus because she was there stealing the spotlight. Even Dokyeom was acting like her bodyguard.”

You smiled, imagining the scene. “I bet she loved the attention.”

“Oh, she did. But guess who she gave all her attention to?” Jisoo raised an eyebrow, his tone playful. “Jun. She only had eyes for him.” He laughed, shaking his head as if he still couldn’t believe it. “She wouldn’t even look at me. She was completely smitten.”

You laughed along with him, but his words sparked a thought. “You know,” you began, “I remember watching all of Jun’s dramas while I was pregnant with her. Could that be the reason?”

Jisoo’s brows furrowed in mock betrayal. “You watched all his dramas? You didn’t even watch my variety show!” His eyes widened as if he had just uncovered a great scandal.

You chuckled softly, trying to defend yourself. “Did I say all? Actually, not all of them. And for the record, I did watch your variety show!”

Jisoo raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. “The full episodes?"

You cringed, guilt flashing across your face. “The clips,” you admitted, unable to meet his eyes.

Jisoo burst out laughing, pulling you into his arms. “Unbelievable. My own wife.” Jisoo burst out laughing, shaking his head at your guilty expression before pulling you into a warm embrace. "I know you like Jun," he teased.

Your cheeks flushed as you giggled, tightening the hug. "I mean… he’s so handsome. How could someone be that handsome?" you admitted, unable to suppress your grin.

Jisoo pulled back slightly, pouting like a child. "I’m handsome too, you know."

"You are," you reassured him with a smile, "but he’s, like, super handsome."

"Super handsome?!" Jisoo gasped, clutching his chest as if you had just wounded him. "That’s way too much to say about another man who isn’t your husband! You’re breaking my heart here!"

His over-the-top reaction had you bursting into laughter, tears forming in the corners of your eyes as you playfully swatted his arm. "Oh, stop being dramatic!"

But Jisoo only leaned back with a mock sigh, mumbling, "I can’t believe I’m losing to Jun in my own house…"

Shaking your head in amusement, you snuggled closer to him. "Well, if it makes you feel any better, I married you, didn’t I?"

Jisoo grinned, his pout disappearing as he kissed the top of your head. "Yeah, you did. And that’s all that matters. But if Yuri starts calling Jun 'Dad,' we’re going to have a serious talk."

*

A year and a half later, your house was once again filled with excitement when you found out you were pregnant again—this time, with a boy. Jisoo was over the moon, and Yuri, though too young to fully understand, was thrilled at the idea of being a big sister. As the weeks passed, you began to experience all the ups and downs of pregnancy again, but this time, there was a twist—your cravings weren’t food-related. Instead, you had an undeniable, almost ridiculous craving to see Jun in person.

It started innocently enough. One quiet evening as Jisoo folded Yuri’s tiny clothes, you glanced at him from the couch and casually said, “I don’t know why, but I really want to see Jun. Like, just once. Is that weird?”

Jisoo froze mid-fold, turning his head slowly like he’d misheard you. His lips curled into a smirk as he placed the neatly folded onesie on the growing pile. “So now it’s not just binge-watching his dramas, huh? You want to meet him too?”

You groaned, placing a hand on your belly. “I can’t help it, okay? It’s like… I need to see him. Maybe it’s the hormones.”

“Hormones, huh?” Jisoo raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying himself. “Sure it’s not your long-brewing celebrity crush finally boiling over? Because if we’re blaming hormones, then I think Yuri was just your cover-up last time”

You grabbed the nearest pillow and tossed it at him. He dodged with ease, laughing as he dropped onto the couch beside you, leaving Yuri’s clothes momentarily abandoned.

“Don’t make fun of me! I’m being serious here,” you whined, crossing your arms over your chest. “I might actually cry if I don’t see him.”

Jisoo gasped, clutching his chest dramatically like you’d just confessed something scandalous. “Cry? You’d cry over another man? A man who isn’t your husband?”

“Oh, don’t start,” you grumbled, though you couldn’t stop the small smile tugging at your lips. “You don’t understand. It’s not just about him being… you know…”

“Handsome? Perfect? Tall? Charismatic?” Jisoo listed with a grin, ticking the traits off on his fingers like he was keeping score. “Oh, I understand, trust me.”

You narrowed your eyes at him. “You’re enjoying this way too much.”

“Of course I am,” he shot back, still grinning. “I get to see my wife all flustered over a guy I personally know. Do you want me to get his autograph too? Or better yet, a signed poster?”

You smacked his arm lightly, laughing despite yourself. “Stop it! You’re the worst.”

Jisoo feigned offense, gasping again. “The worst? Here I am, folding clothes for our child, and you’re plotting a meeting with another man. Unbelievable.”

“Baby,” you groaned, dragging out his name. “I’m pregnant! And it’s not like I’m asking for much. I just want to see him, like… once. It’s not a crime.”

“Alright, alright,” he relented, leaning back against the couch with a teasing glint still in his eyes. “You’re lucky I’m your husband. I’ll see what I can do.”

Your eyes lit up immediately. “Really? You’ll do that for me?”

“Of course,” he said, reaching over to pull you into a side hug. “But don’t think I’ll let you gush over him in front of me. I’ll have to establish dominance as your real favorite.”

“Oh, please. You’re lucky I married you,” you teased, earning a pillow thrown back at you this time. And as laughter filled the room, you thought to yourself how you really did marry the best man after all.

You weren’t sure if he was serious, but you knew Jisoo. When he set his mind to something, he always made it happen. And, true to his word, a week later, he came home with the biggest grin on his face.

“Guess what?” he said, walking into the living room where you were lounging with Yuri.

“What?” you asked, curious but suspicious of his tone.

“I arranged for us to visit the company tomorrow. The members are practicing, and Jun will be there,” he said, casually dropping the news as if it were no big deal.

Your eyes widened in disbelief. “Wait, really? You’re serious?”

“Of course,” he said, sitting beside you and pulling you into a side hug. “Do you think I’d let my pregnant wife cry over Jun? I’m not that heartless.”

The next day, Jisoo drove you and Yuri to the company, your heart racing with a mix of excitement and nerves. As you entered the practice room, the members greeted you warmly, all eyes lighting up when they saw Yuri and your growing belly.

But you only had eyes for one person. There he was, standing near the mirrors, his hair slightly tousled and his warm smile directed at Yuri, who had already run toward him.

“Jun,” you said softly, feeling a little starstruck despite yourself.

Jun turned to you, his smile widening. “Oh, Y/n! It’s so good to see you again.”

You felt your cheeks heat up as Jisoo, standing beside you, tried to stifle a laugh. “Go on,” he whispered, nudging you lightly.

Jun walked over and greeted you politely, his gentle demeanor putting you at ease. He crouched slightly to address your belly. “So, this is the little one who’s been making all the fuss about meeting me?”

You burst out laughing, your nerves melting away. “Apparently. It’s all his fault,” you joked, patting your bump.

As the day went on, you couldn’t stop smiling. Watching Jun play with Yuri and talk to Jisoo like old friends felt surreal. Jisoo, for his part, seemed to enjoy watching you quietly fangirl, even sneaking a picture of you and Jun talking.

Later that night, as you lay in bed, you turned to Jisoo and kissed his cheek. “Thank you for today. It really meant a lot to me.”

Jisoo grinned, pulling you close. “Anything for you. Besides, I’m just glad you didn’t run away with Jun.”

You laughed, resting your head on his chest. “Don’t worry. You’re still my favorite.”

“You better mean that,” he said playfully, kissing the top of your head.

“I do,” you murmured, your voice soft with love. And with that, you drifted off to sleep, feeling incredibly grateful for your husband who always made everything easier—because he’s Jisoo, and he always could.

[sweetiesicheng]

joshua - translator

word count : 908

happy birthday to lovely joshua ~

-

"excuse me?" you look up and see a guy standing in front of you. "hi, i'm joshua. i'll be your translator for this interview," he greets, holding his hand out to you.

"oh, hi. nice to meet you," you say and shake his hand. "will you be sitting next to me?" you ask.

he nods, "yea. with how the camera is, i won't be seen on tv," he mentions. "if you need any explanations, just let me know. i'm sure you've seen most of the questions already."

"actually, i haven't seen any of them yet. i know the usual questions though, so i should be fine," you say to him.

"you sure you don't want a peek?" he offers, holding out a stack of papers that he has in one hand.

"well...one peek wouldn't hurt," you reply, making both of you laugh.

joshua hands you some papers from the stack. the papers are filled with interview questions with the english translation sitting beneath each question.

"i doubt we'll have enough time to go through all of these. it’s just the ones that some of the staff wrote," joshua says to you. "oh, i marked these out," he mentions, "these are about you. these are about your concert. the ones at the bottom are kind of obscure questions."

you look over the questions for a bit and hand the papers back to joshua.

"thanks," you say to him.

"yea, no problem. i'll be going now. i'll see you out there," he says with a smile.

"okay, see ya," you reply.

joshua leaves the room. you look over the schedule while your manager checks over some things with the stage crew. one of your stylists fixes your makeup while another one fixes your performance outfit since one of the appliqués got loose from a different performance.

eventually, the show starts and you wait for your cue. when it's your turn, you walk on stage, waving to the audience before greeting the host.

you go through simple introductions and listen to the host talk about you and your new song that you're promoting. you can't understand most of what the host is saying, but while the host is talking, joshua comes out and sits next to you.

the interview goes smoothly since joshua translates everything for you, and the host is a really nice person. the studio audience seems to love you, which makes you feel happy knowing that you have fans in another country.

after the interview, you change into another outfit and get ready to perform your new song as well as one of your songs from your last mini album.

you have a ton of fun performing with your crew and end your appearance on a high note. the host says a few more things before another break happens.

"excuse me, these are from the crew," joshua says, appearing in the hallway when you go further backstage. he holds a gift bag with the show's logo on it.

"oh thank you!" you immediately reply as joshua hands the bag to you, "this is so sweet of everyone." you peek in the bag and see a few items. "please give everyone my gratitude. everyone here is so nice, and i'm really glad that you were my translator today."

joshua smiles at you, "glad i could help. i'm trying to work my way up, so maybe i'll see you at another recording.”

"i'll just ask if there's a joshua at all of my shoots while i'm here then," you say to him, leaving the two of you laughing.

"well, if you need a translator for anything else. i could probably find time," he suddenly offers.

"actually?"

"wait, are you being serious now?"

"you're the one that just offered to be my translator!" you laugh. "okay, you're coming with me! let's see if my manager agrees," you say and grab his arm.

—

"i'm confused."

you and joshua sit on the couch in his apartment. you have takeout containers on the table and a notebook in your hands with all of your notes for learning new words. both your handwriting and joshua's handwriting are littered all over the pages, and it makes you surprised how you can still read everything.

"you say that a lot when i teach you," joshua says to you. you lightly smack his arm. "okay, ow."

"you're too buff for that to hurt," you say to him. you circle the word you're having trouble on with a pen. "how am i saying it wrong?" you ask.

"you're saying this word instead of that," joshua says, pointing to two words on the page. "actually, it sounds like you're in between these two sounds. i guess you kind of have an accent if anything."

you groan, laying your head on his lap. "i give up learning. my brain is too fried with all of the languages i've been using lately."

"hey, you're supposed to have this interview all on your own, remember?" joshua says, moving your notebook onto the table.

"it's your fault for having to be on that music video shoot."

"i'm sorry that i got a better job?"

"that doesn't sound sincere."

joshua leans in and kisses you. "i'm sorry that i can't accompany my very smart and talented girlfriend to her recording at a music show while her boyfriend is working on a music video set."

"you owe me more kisses."

he chuckles, "you got it."

[gnabnahc-143]

The way I loved you | L.K, J.H

Chapter 1: Pieces of him in you

Pairing: Lee know x reader, Joshua Hong x reader

Note: the first chapter!!! Wrote this in a rush but I hope you guys like it🫶

Series masterlist

In hindsight, you should’ve seen this coming. Joshua to you was what you thought love should be like; peaceful, devoted, safe. He loved you as if you were his last, with touches filled with intention, loving gazes unwavering, and detailed gestures most men would leave unnoticed, which is why you should’ve known. He loved you as if you were his last because in his mind you were, so it should’ve been no surprise when he led you to the beach, echoes of how you first met plaguing your mind and kneeled upon you promising his love and loyalty for whatever lives you had left.

You had agreed, but your promise to commitment were filled with emotions much different to his; guilt, hatred, and only similarly love. Because yes, you felt guilty, knowing you could never love Joshua the way he wanted you to, the way he loved you. Because yes, your decision was clouded by a desperate effort to forget the man you hated, to forget Lee Minho. But yes, you did love Joshua, yet even after a year of constant efforts to hold the same affections the seemingly perfect man held to you, your own affections never breached anything over platonic, still it was love.

Now you sat on a bench of the very beach you met Joshua in, the same night you and him had ended, with new determination. You were determined to forget Minho now more than ever, determined to live a happier life, determined to move on and love Joshua, and most importantly determined not to hurt him. Joshua was a gift to the world, ever the gentleman, ever the momma’s boy, able to bring a smile to anyones faces, including yours even when you were tear-stricken the night you met him.

Filled with thought you didn’t notice your now fiancée staring at you, luckily you hadn’t as the look of love on his face as he gazed at you would make you feel nothing but guilt. You were finally shaken out of your trance when his hands cupped your face, eyes analyzing every detail, smiling happily. “I’m so glad I met you when I did” he said, you were puzzled at the second half of his statement but you shook it off. “Me too” you smiled, truthfully you were, although Joshua was unsuccessful in helping you move on, he made the years away from Minho much more bearable. Filling your days with comfort, companionship, and laughter. You truly thought you could fall in love with him and maybe it wasn’t the best idea to figure out whilst married but you were determined.

“You wanna go home?” He offered. The adrenaline of proposing had worn off and all he wanted to do at this moment was cuddle his now fiancé, show her how much he loved her.

“Home?” You asked smiling, although it felt like a foreign concept with Joshua, you were genuine in your happiness to be in his company. “Well mine- yours, you should know by now I’d follow you anywhere” he stuttered. You laughed, “we’re engaged love, you don’t need to flirt with me anymore”.

“Gotta keep the romance alive” he replied, grinning.

You kept your smile but your heart dropped, he was romantic, that you couldn’t deny, but not in the way you’d like. Where romance with Joshua was constant comfort, chivalry, and considering you two had yet to fight, peace. Romance with Minho was similar yet so different, he never failed to put a smile on your face, never failed to slow the beating of your heart, never failed to treat you like a princess. But romance with Minho could also be unpredictable, in a way exciting, you two were as hotheaded as they come, and when you fought, it became unpredictable the lengths each of you would go to be petty, it also became unpredictable the lengths each of you would go for forgiveness, spending many days making grand romantic gestures to show love (and maybe embarrass each other a little bit). Where Joshua was secure, Minho was protective. Where Joshua was understanding, Minho was confrontational. Where Joshua was the textbook definition of perfect, Minho was yours.

Even the one flaw Joshua had in your relationship, was the one thing Minho was eerily good at, reading you. Although your now fiancée was perfect in the way he handled your sadness, able to comfort you any time that you needed, he also had a hard time knowing when to. Joshua never saw the smile you faked, never saw the tears you hid, never even felt the romantic love you lacked. Whilst Minho was intoxicating, in the way he knew how you felt with just one look, even able to locate the specific strings of your heart but being careful not to pull them (little did you know the day he would pull them was the same day those strings instantly broke).

Guiltily enough though, a part of why you liked Joshua was that you saw pieces of Minho in him.

-

You woke up as you felt an unfaltering gaze, cupping your face as he saw your eyes flutter open. “You’re awake” Joshua smiled “Do you want me to cook breakfast?” He asked. “Last time you tried to cook, you almost set your house on fire” you replied, rolling your eyes teasingly, he pouted as you laughed leaning in for a morning kiss.

Waking up to kisses peppered on your face became a norm you never wanted to become foreign. “Wake up you lazy baby, I made breakfast” Minho said, you laughed tiredly. “I’m up! I’m up! Happy?” you smiled teasingly, petting the cat that had climbed up to the bed. “Only took 100 kisses” he grumbled, you laughed and kissed him properly. “100 AND 1” you replied grinning. Laughing as you saw his face scrunch, “Morning breath” he whined but his red ears gave away his true thoughts.

“You alright?” you felt Joshua shake you gently, breaking your trance. “Oh y-yeah um I’ll go cook breakfast” you replied smiling tightly. You left the room to start on breakfast, deciding on a simple American breakfast of eggs, bacon, and potatoes. Midway to cooking you felt arms snake around your waist and a kiss on your shoulder, “Do you need help? I’m not THAT bad” Joshua said, you chuckled and handed the tongs to him “don’t burn the bacon, I’ll start on the eggs” you said teasingly. At some point he had turned on music as you both cooked, and as you heard a familiar tune, you started laughing “You’re never letting go of this song are you?”. “Nope. Plus its perfect timing after all, it is sunday morning” he replied wiggling his eyebrows, you laughed and hummed along. “Don’t you dare put this in the wedding” you teased, feeling happy to see his grin stretch.

Minho left to let you freshen up. Picking up dori as you left the room, you saw that he was still working on breakfast, and smiled at the endearing sight of him cooking pancakes whilst humming along the music mindlessly playing. “You could’ve woken me up when you were done” you said rolling your eyes as you wrapped your arms around him from behind, “ofcourse not, If I have to wake up earlier to cook for you, you have to wake up earlier to watch me” he teased. You knew behind his teases were care and affection as he never had to cook for you, you always woke up early enough to cook for yourself before school and now work, but he did it anyways. As he started singing along the song, he looked at you, and at the time you didn’t know what it meant but the sincerity in his eyes had translated everything. “What song was that?” you asked. “Betelgeuse by Yuuri” he answered, “Why? Are you finally getting infected by Han and I’s music taste?” He teased, laughing as you rolled your eyes at the mention of his best friend who you’ve had a playful fake competition with for Minho’s love. Only at the end of the day did you remember to search the songs translation, tearing up as you saw the lyrics he so sincerely sang to you on a casual morning.

Your trance had distracted you so much, you hadnt realized that Joshua had indeed burnt the bacon. “How did that even happen?” You asked, confused to how long you had drifted off for. “I think I accidentally turned up the heat” he replied sheepishly, fondly you laughed at the boy, pushing his shoulders to lead him over to the couch. “I’ll finish up quick darling, just stay here” you teased, laughing harder as he pouted. You knew you shouldn’t compare the two but you couldn’t help it, Minho plagued your thoughts any chance that he could, and mornings with Joshua were big triggers of it.

As you finished up breakfast, you joined Joshua on the couch, it started off silent as you both simply enjoyed each others company. You felt his hand snake towards yours, grazing the ring that newly decorated your finger, bringing up your hand to kiss it gently. “Why were you crying on that beach?...y’know, when we first met?” he asked. Sighing you knew the day would come where you had to tell him but you didnt want to hurt him, scared he’ll think that all he was was a rebound. Feeling memories of the breakup haunt your mind in flashes.

Your feet were hurting. Your head was hurting. Your heart was hurting. Sobbing, you took a seat on the bench of the beach you had crossed everyday in your car whenever you made your way to Minhos house, now you had left his house heartbroken in a desperate sprint to escape and had ended up in the same beach you had once cherished. You were so deep in heartbreak you didn’t notice the man who had slowly approached you in concern, now sitting on the opposite side of the bench. “Excuse me? Are you alright?” he asked, you yelped in shock turning to the man. You couldn’t deny he was beautiful but you paid no mind to it as your thoughts were only filled of Minho's tearful eyes. “Yeah I’m fine” you smiled tightly, hoping to brush him off, but Joshua wasn’t like that. He wasn’t the type of person to brush it off, call it a savior complex but he felt the need to stay, so he did. Handing you his bottle of water, hoping to calm your hiccups, being patient in waiting for you and although you never told him why you were crying, he never strayed. Instead of coaxing the rant out of you and listening, he opted to distract you, leading you to a late-night diner on the coast and trying to cheer you up with nonsensical jokes.

From then on he gave you his number and even though you barely sparked a conversation, he never failed to check up on you, making sure you had company to go through whatever you were going through. A year into the friendship, he had confessed, he made sure you were happy enough for him to do so as he never wanted to take advantage of your vulnerbility. At the time, your feelings for Minho were still as strong as ever but you agreed, knowing if you were going to get over Minho with anyone, Joshua would be that someone. Months into the relationship you knew you loved him but not in the way he wanted you to, months of delaying a confrontation turned into a year, and now here you are engaged to a man you couldn’t hurt.

“I lost someone” was all you said, your eyes pleading to stop the conversation. Joshua’s own eyes softened even more, nodding his head and changing the topic of conversation with a kiss on your head. You knew you didn’t deserve him, Joshua was too good to you, and yet you couldnt leave cause all you could see was pieces of Minho.

taglist: @mal-lunar-28 @alexnicolaidiss @borahae-reads @feybin @turnersoundtrack @stayinhaven8 @zee23txmblr-blog

[wonusbitterpeach]

From the Archives: Giving love to old Wonwoo fanfics This is a gorgeous one. A short read written in literary style, for general audiences. A beautiful collection of moments when someone catches your eye and you keep looking up. It left me breathless. ❥ wwbp SUMMARY: They noticed each other in bits and pieces, in between chapters and lines of dialogue - those mid-story moments where you just simply had to pause and let yourself breathe.

[honeyhae-svt]

.ೃ࿔⋆꙳•̩̩͙❅̩̩͙‧͙december with seventeen‧͙̩̩͙❆ ͙͛ ˚₊⋆

a/n: hey you! its december 15, 8 days before christmas ! updating this masterlist everyday for ot13 ig ! update starts tomorrow =]

warnings: none. just fluff in each chapter. so yeah ig anyone is allowed to read this :]

MASTERLIST SEVENTEEN X READER

c. seungcheol – snowman (sia)

tags: seungcheol x reader, seungcheol fluff, seventeen fanfiction, holiday au, snowman au, christmas love story, domestic fluff, bittersweet love, long distance relationship, happy ending, romance, reader insert, cozy vibes genre: fluff, romance, holiday au, slice of life warnings: mild emotional moments (bittersweet themes around distance), excessive cuteness and fluff (reader discretion advised), no major angst (just warm feelings and happy tears) wc: 2757 (heh)

y. jeonghan – last christmas (ariana grande)

tags: jeonghan x reader, jeonghan fluff, seventeen fanfiction, holiday au, ex au, christmas love story, fluff, bittersweet love, exes to lovers(?), happy ending, romance, reader insert, cozy vibes. kisses (mwuah) genre: romance, fluff, christmas, holiday au, slice of life, really mild angst warnings: none (it’s pretty wholesome, so unless you have themes of anxiety or past trauma you have with past relationships, there should be no need for any major warnings) wc: 3050 (xp)

h. joshua – mistletoe (justin bieber)

tags: joshua x reader, holiday au, christmas love story, snowball fight, mistletoe kiss, fluff, romance, cozy vibes, snow angels, warmth in the cold, friends to lovers, slow burn, winter vibes genre: romance, fluff, holiday/christmas au, friendship, humor warnings: none (this is a fluff-filled story with light teasing and playful moments) wc: 3702

w. junhui – baby it’s cold outside (michael bublé)

tags: jun x reader, snowstorm au, domestic vibes, movie night, pining, slow burn, fluffy ending, reader insert, cozy romance, winter love genre: fluff, romance warnings: none. just soft, wholesome vibes and playful banter wc: 2859

k. soonyoung – you make it feel like christmas (gwen stefani, blake shelton)

j. wonwoo – santa baby (ariana grande)

l. jihoon – i’ll be home for christmas (michael bublé)

l. seokmin – this christmas (chris brown)

k. mingyu – santa tell me (ariana grande)

x. minghao – santa doesn’t know you like i do (sabrina carpenter)

b. seungkwan – santa, can’t you hear me (kelly clarkson, ariana grande)

c. vernon – all i want for christmas is you (mariah carey)

l. chan – winter things (ariana grande)

a/n: it's a december event until the 24th! (christmas eve) exactly 8 days before christmas. (this is more like my countdown lol) i hope yall look forward to it :]

thank you and happy early christmas greetings mwuah. xoxo