#and then they all had character development

[randomness-is-my-order]

i think one of the most wonderful traits of wei wuxian is how socially competent he is, which is why it always annoys me if he is mischaracterized as someone who is unaware about how those around him feel, just because of the way his relationship with lan wangji pans out in the books. the dynamic between them was extremely multifaceted and what seemed obvious to us was very rightfully NOT obvious to wei wuxian and he hardly had time to sort those feelings out, given the kind of harrowing ordeals he was going through. but that aside–the way wei wuxian’s “social competence” manifests isn’t just social courage–in that, the risk of embarassment or self-consciousness doesn’t stop his self expression–or just his general forwardness and social butterfly tendencies but also–and imo, most importantly–his perceptiveness and astute reading of people around him which comes from a deep understanding of the human social element, at the individual and the societal level.

he has full awareness of how his station is looked down upon in the cultivation world and so while others in his situation may bend or break–wei wuxian cleverly toes the line between the two until taking a stance becomes necessary. he deeply understands the ugly dynamics running within the jiang family and clan and acts accordingly–be it his prompt efforts to placate jiang cheng or his conscious silence when madame yu is in a mood or even his acceptance of the whipping in lieu of restoring stability for the clan. despite his personal biases against jin zixuan, he can recognise his bravery. even his scandalous move to begin undressing in the cave shows that he knows exactly what would make lan wangji tick.

hell, i’d say even his initial thought about how the resentment of the dead can be redirected towards a target shows his striking comprehension of how emotions work in general. what’s more, he’s able to recognise the machinations nie huaisang had employed and he was also aware of the bigger picture associated with how fickle and easily swayed mob mentality was when everyone took part in bashing jin guangyao when certain truths came to light. when he was first brought back to life, he quickly and correctly deduced what kind of life mo xuanyu must have led and how he could act in order to easily humiliate the mo family. he empathised with jin ling and yet realised how he was brought up left something to be desired and so, tried to inculcate some of his own highly regarded values to him.

the deft manner in which he handled the juniors speaks for itself–a good teacher will always have good communication skills and wei wuxian went above and beyond just “good”. his people skills on nighthunts are extremely helpful–his ability to make tongues loose simply by charming people is highlighted more than once. just off the top of my head–him politely appealing to jin guangshan about the wen remnants and apologising for “intruding”, him readily handing in his sword at the indoctrination camps, him suggesting to jiang cheng that he should leave the clan once he was at the burial mounds–all of this (and much much more) demonstrates wei wuxian’s competence at guaging complex social dynamics, which is why, when he goes against the current and stands firm, it is a deliberate, well thought out decision, one made after considering the risks and repercussions, and that makes wei wuxian’s stance at the end that much more powerful. he is not stumbling his way through life, is not unheeding of his social status, is not a “mad genius with poor social skills”. hell, i would say wei wuxian’s ability to see straight through people is more impressive than even his insane intellect and to reduce that aspect of him feels like a disservice to his character. because when it comes down to it, the fact of the matter is that the murky social world through wei wuxian’s lens is actually astonishingly clear.

[gallusrostromegalus]

I did not care at all for Aizen Sosuke when I first read bleach. I found him boring, and worst, unthreatening.

So it's pretty jarring for me that I have been OBSESSED with him in your AU. I'm rotating him at great speed

Walt Disney was a jackass who was flat-out wrong about a lot of very important things, but he employed a great many geniuses of storytelling, and there's a piece in Disney Animation: The Illusion of Life by Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnson that discusses a key feature of Disney Studios Character Design:

"Of all characters, villains are the most fun to develop because they make everything else happen. They are the instigators, and always more colorful than the Hero. They may be dramatic, awesome, insidious or semi-comic, but they MUST be appealing. Almost any story becomes innocuous if all the evil is eliminated, but we do not necessarily gain strength by being frightening. we want a character that will hold the audience and entertain them, even if it's a Chilling Type of Entertainment."

And I've found that to be an important principle of character design, especially the kind of canon restructuring I do.

Aizen had a LOT going for him in canon- for all of Bleach's other faults, Aizen's conspiracy and THE REVEAL are spectacularly constructed and executed. I legit screamed and threw my mug across my dorm room when I read it in the manga the first time. He's also conventionally attractive and the translations I was reading gave him the speech patterns of Every Douchebag In Your 101 Political Theory Who Thinks He's The Smartest Man In The Room, which made him a terrific combination of Unfortunately Charming, Menacingly Competent and Engagingly Obnoxious.

...But he falls flat in a few key places.

Aizen's reasoning could be MUCH more sympathetic- After all, he is RIGHT. Soul Sciety does suck ass and all the options kind of suck. Who designs a universe like that? An asshole who needs killing, that's who. The best kind of Unhinged Madmen are the kind who spell out their reasoning and you realize that there but for the grace of Not Having Super Powers Go I. Canon!Aizen makes a few Good Rhetorical Points, but seems to lack any personal connection to his all-consuming plan.

Another issue is that nearly every villain with A Plan has a clear end goal AND a lot of the menace is drawn from the fact that the plan *could* work. Aizen's plan for betraying the court guard and then killing them off before proceeding into the Royal Realm to Kill God sorta falls apart when it's clear he planned to use pretty much all his accumulated forces dealing with the court guard and doesn't seem to have a plan for the Even More Powerful Royal Guard, let alone God. For how meticulously planned the rest of the plot is, the last two VERY IMPORTANT steps are just handwaved.

So I sat down and started with the plot beats Aizen MUST hit, and tried to imagine what kind of guy would he have to be to get there? And I came up with this:

Sosuke Aizen is a fundamentally good man with genuinely good intentions who is really trying his best for the whole world.

Think about it- what lengths would you NOT go to if you think you found a genuine shot at Fixing Everything Wrong With The World Forever? We all talk about killing Hitler if we found an actual Time Machine- would you do it if your only chance was when he was a baby? Would you kill an infant if it meant you could stop World War II before it starts? Of course you would! One small life for over 75 million? You'd be insane not to! What if you found out that you could prevent the future extinction of Humanity by killing your best friend today? Ten Billion lives? For theirs? It's simple, really- Hell, it's your Moral Obligation to do that if you were SURE!

-And Aizen IS sure. He is absolutely, totally, completely sure that He Can Save Everyone if he just gets rid of that idiot sitting on the throne of heaven. He's seen the plans! He knows where the gate of heaven is! It's So SIMPLE he just has to get inside, and he knows EXACTLY how to do it, yes it'll be hard and there will be... unpleasant parts but. IT. WILL. WORK.

He is of course, insane.

Aizen didn't have One Bad Day that set him irrevocably on the path of madness. It was a succession of catastrophic disappointments and realizations that he was living in a fundamentally irrational world that made irrational thinking look sane. The Catastrophe that befell his family, working for the central 46 and later the court guard and seeing how the organizations were inept to the point of abuse or corrupt to the core, learning that The Actual House Of God is a place he can just? Go to? Anyone would start thinking you were just a handful of white lies and homicides away from Fixing Everything, Forever.

Not only is Aizen insane, he is nowhere near as smart as he thinks. He is smart- He does have a knack for being able to guess just what will spur someone to action or make them recoil in fear. But mostly he gets extremely lucky Many, Many, MANY times. On some level I think it gives him Confirmation Bias that this is what he's supposed to be doing. Aizen is also nowhere near as smart as (nearly) everyone else thinks he is. His bizarrely good luck makes him look like a hyper-competent genius when really it was really the catastrophic failure of Soul Society as a Society that let a merely mediocre conspirator to evade detection for so long.

Being that he is at most, mediocre, he had to have Outside Help, specifically Gin's emotional support and Tousen's Competence- and if there's a part of the fic that stays true to canon, it's this.

Gin is Aizen's emotional rock in Canon. He's the ONE guy that Aizen genuinely trusts, and considers his 'my only real partner' in his scheme. There's more than one occasion in the manga where Aizen more or less asks Gin "Is this actually a good idea?" and Gin backs him up every time.

...Which is more than a bit at odds with Gin's later stated goal of "I did all this to kill you at your most vulnerable to protect rangiku" . It never rang true to me. So I started thinking why on EARTH Gin would be backing Aizen up like that, and realized there was a hole in my world building that he slotted into nicely :)

On the other hand, the entire fic was started because I didn't like how Tousen's character arc ended, so you can imagine how much he's changed.

But in canon, TOUSEN DOES ALL THE FUCKING WORK.

Lab work? Tousen.

Supervising the arrancar directly? Tousen

Actually getting victims for the Hogyoku experiments? Tousen.

Altering all the archives to keep Aizen's plot hidden? Tousen.

Sending all the Orders allegedly from the central 46? Tousen.

Making sure Unohana believes Aizen's fake body is real? Tousen.

Managing all the day-to-day operations at Las Noches? Tousen.

There's even this little exchange, which is Tousen's first appearance in the Manga:

Aizen establishes this entire meeting is a little fake-out a few pages later with "now isn't that a convenieint time for the alarm to go off?"

which makes him look like he's investigating, but he's also going "Good job on disrupting everyone with the alarm Gin!" It's ballsy of Aizen to do a check-in on his plan with his main nemesis in the room, but also his style.

I think the same thing is happening here with Tousen. To make sure Ukitake wouldn't raise a huge fit about the proposed execution of his beloved lieutenant, which might fuck everything up for Aizen because Ukitake is one of like, three people Yamamoto will listen to (sort of).

...So he had Tousen poison Ukitake to keep him out of the way.

ALL. THE. FUCKING. WORK. It's even in his name! The characters for "Tousen" Refer to a legendary scholar the emperor of China sent out to discover the secret of immortality- only to kill the scholar when he returned with that secret. The character for "Kaname" means "Necessary/Vital/keystone" or "to organize/take account of". His name LITERALLY means "Scholar who is essential for the plan (that we're going to kill later)"

Another thing Kubo did well in Bleach: his name game is Off The Fucking Charts.

-but I digress.

In AEIWAM, it's much the same only this time Aizen sees this very dangerous witness who is immune to his illusions but also extremely snart and capable young man and instead of risking being caught out by the one damn guy who can see right through him, opts to Curse Kaname into doing as Aizen says, and doing all the fucking work of this conspiracy against his will.

It's Not Nice, but Aizen genuinely thinks he's doing Kaname a favor by subjecting him to this degrading and incredibly painful servitude- I mean, Aizen's only other option was to Kill him to keep his silence, and isn't it wonderful that you get to help fix the universe? You're the one always going on about Justice, I don't understand why you didn't jump at the chance to mete out some Divine Justice.

An Excerpt from the captain's meeting in between the Massacre that made the visored and Zaraki's arrival, when Kaname realizes Yamamoto is 100% serious about his promotion to captain of the 9th and goes to throw up in the garden. Aizen offers to go check on him while Unohana very politely reads the general the riot act:

---

"You broke your toy Aizen." Kaname coughs.

"…I really am sorry for running you ragged like this. I really shouldn't have gotten so mad about you hiding the the hogyoku- it was very petty of me." The bastard sighs, taking off his glasses and rubbing his face, entirely genuine.

Kaname stayed on his hands and knees, weaving slightly as another wave of nausea flowed through him, powered by disgust and rage.

"How about this- I've got a lot coming up with the new job, training Gin and disposing of Kiganjo- So how about I promise to not give you any orders for a while? You will have to keep our arrangement a secret and not interfere, of course, but other than that, you're free to do as you please for- a year and a day is traditional isn't it? No, that's not going to heal by then- Oh, would you look at that!"

Kaname didn't have the strength to offer his usual rebuttal that he won't look at anything, ever. The sides of his head tingle like his skul was being pressed between two enormous hands made of static electricity.

"It's 11:11! Alright, I won't give you any Orders until 11:11 am on November 11th, 1911. That's easy to remember! What do you think?" Aizen continued cheerfully, patting his back and the Curse nails.

"…I can't." Kaname groaned. He could scream if he had the energy, but due to Aizen's Illusions, nobody would hear him. "I actually physically can't think. Please…"

"Of course! You really are such a help to me, it would be a shame to lose you. I'll even amend our contract, so you don't get paranoid-" There was a sizzling sound and a new stroke of hot pain up Kaname's spine as Aizen did something to the wretched Bakudo. "There. No compulsions for eleven years and a day. What do you say?"

Kaname grimaced, but dropped his head. Save the energy to fight another day. "…thank you, Aizen-sama."

"Good man! Let's get you on your feet." Aizen beamed, putting his glasses back on and offering him an arm.

---

He genuinely thinks that he's doing everyone a huge favor and if they don't get it it's because they're just not smart enough, but it's alright, He's a Benevolent God and they'll appreciate all his hard work the next time around :)

Aizen is a man who is FULL of joy. He loves what he does! He actively takes pleasure in it! And I think that's something that REALLY delivers in terms of sympathy AND horror for him. Who *Wouldn't* have a great time actually fixing the universe? He's a good man who enjoys doing good works, and this is the greatest work of all!

It also Delivers on the Horror when I get to write the deliciously fun scenes where Aizen is Elbows-deep in a novel War Crime and waxing poetic about how GREAT this is, or being confused why the people around him are reacting with fear. Don't you want to make everything better too?

[demonic0angel]

Phantom Family (In Uniform)

My headcanons for when the Phantoms are in costume and working with other DC heroes :3 (click for clarity)

All four of them work separately, but team up whenever there is a world-ending crisis in their universe or in the DC world (where they’re currently staying). Cue shenanigans bc they’ve been gaining the trust and love of people around them who had no idea they were siblings??? (The Batfam feel a strange sense of deja vu)

More notes:

+ Danny joins the JL, Jazz joins Jason's gang as his assistant, Dani joins Young Justice, and Dan is a loner who only works with Nightwing.

+ Danny is named Phantom, Jazz is named Wolf, Dani is named Spirit, and Dan is named Wraith, named for multiple reasons.

+ In my hcs, the DP world and the DC world are separate, and the DP characters go to the DCU for various reasons. Ofc, these makes people from both worlds slightly different from one another via genetic makeup, culture, politics, etc.

+ Jazz was the first to arrive and she mainly wanted to study and practice her fields at Arkham Asylum. However, she got bored and decided to join Jason’s gang as his assistant before quickly earning his trust and then accidentally gaining more power within the gang. Dani came next and asked to join Young Justice. She was accepted and thus became friends with everyone there. Dan was next, but he thought he got the wrong universe and wasn’t able to contact anyone for awhile. He met Nightwing, and after being interested in his innate goodness, decided to stay around him and continue bothering him, eventually resulting in a genuine relationship where he strives to become better. Danny came last and asked to join the Justice League, which they allowed after awhile as he proved himself, eventually becoming one of the top hitters and most powerful members.

+ Danny’s relationship with the JL was cold at first because his arrival was unprecedented and he was considered an unknown. Eventually, they started realizing that he was chill, but it took a long time before anyone could even trust him since he wasn’t really a team player. At some point, Batman was able to get his identity out of him, and after realizing that he was genuinely young, Batman softened and everyone started trusting and befriending him slowly.

+ Jazz’s relationship with Jason was stilted at first bc Jazz was lowkey suspicious and Jason didn’t trust her. After a while, she proved herself to him and helped him a lot, so they began developing a friendship and eventually, she gained the trust and loyalty of everyone around her. She and Jason have a great but complex relationship with the only hurdle being their secret identities. Both of them have an irrational fear of rejection from the other, so they go out of their way to avoid finding each other’s identities (even if it would be really easy for both of them) which has resulted in a lot of frustration and slow burn.

+ Dani’s relationship with Young Justice started out a little awkward, but her personality and charm won them over and with her assistance towards Secret, she was able to integrate herself into the group easily. She’s considered the newest, so they kind of treat her as the baby, but after a lot of crazy adventures, they trust her with the spiritual and supernatural stuff.

+ Dan’s relationship with Nightwing started out as extremely hostile since Nightwing took no chances and almost immediately wanted to attack him. Dan had no problem with this and often provoked him, but was too powerful to be fought off, only leaving whenever he wanted, which resulted in a lot of frustration and anger. As time passed, Dan made himself into a neutral force in Bludhaven as someone who would not kill others, but would not help unless it was Nightwing asking. He wore down Nightwing enough by popping up for more fights that eventually, Nightwing just lowkey teamed up with him until he was accidentally established as his partner.

+ Danny has both his job of being hero and of being the High King of the Infinite Realms. He balances it out pretty well, since JL is also rather flexible. Jazz has both her job of being Jason’s assistant and of being a psychiatrist at Arkham Asylum. She cannot sleep well so she has a bad habit of overworking herself until she drops, but Jason convinced her to sleep in his office at times. Dani has no jobs and only studies or has fun whenever she’s not out and about as a hero. Dan has a bunch of random jobs whenever he’s not flirting with Nightwing, so he can be seen as a bartender, a babysitter, an accountant, a barista, an artist, etc.

+ At some point, they all meet and everyone looks at them like 😟😦😦 bc WHO WAS GONNA TELL THEM THAT 4 PEOPLE WHO ARE STATIONED SUSPICIOUSLY NEAR THE MOST IMPORTANT PLACES WITH PEOPLE WHO CAN BE CONSIDERED EXTREMELY DANGEROUS ARE ACTUALLY SIBLINGS????

[thegeekempress]

I hate when VNs have all these important plot elements you need to know for the main story but also these really life changing character development arcs that get cancelled out because being one in route means the other stuff doesn't happen and it's like, no, let all my girls/boys get their resolution. I don't want the character's father to die in this timeline because for the other guy's route I had to go the lab instead of the warehouse T_T

Let me smooch all of them *and* solve their issues

I think more games with romance should include polyamory as an option. Not just because of inclusion purposes but also because a lot of these games are super long RPGs and I sure as hell don't have time to replay the game 5 times to romance everyone I wanted to.

[mareastrorum]

That last episode really wasn’t as interesting as the discourse suggests, and that’s pretty much the problem:

First, Ludinus’s fight was not of the caliber expected for a final boss fight, which (in combination with his staff) suggests that it won’t be the last time we’ll see him. The issue is that the audience is generally quite tired of Ludinus because (1) he has made far too many appearances for a villain with a single-minded goal, (2) his interactions with the PCs are uninteresting because his motivations don't resonate with them in agreement or opposition, and (3) Delilah did the whole “Cerberus Assembly wizard who refuses to stay dead” thing in this very campaign (plus it was far more thematically appropriate for a necromancer) and that takes the dramatic tension out of the possibility. No one cast member bears the blame for those 3 issues; Matt probably should have pivoted to give Ludinus additional motivations when the Hells had so consistently demonstrated an inability to commit to the gods question, and the players should have done something to build a sense of purpose in their group (which would be their reason to oppose the villain). Instead we're left with "this guy has rancid vibes, kill him and do what he wanted us to anyway."

Second, the PCs’ decisions leading up to this point have annihilated any semblance of tragedy in the narrative. This isn’t a tragedy because that genre rests on eliciting a feeling that the characters deserved better, but the audience nevertheless understands why it turned out this way. That can arise from paying attention to institutional injustices, the allure of cycles of violence, or the development of tragic flaws (strengths causing a downfall). That isn't C3; this is a bunch of trite flaws (selfishness, short-sightedness, pettiness, favoritism, etc.) turning out to be flaws. It would have been amazing if this had been an example of hubris like we saw in EXU Calamity, but each of those main characters were bursting with pride in themselves, their city, and mortality, and while that hubris brought the Lord of the Hells back, they managed to prevent the worst case scenario using the exact same skills and resources. None of that is present here. Bell’s Hells are constantly trying to shift the captain’s hat to someone else, and their ship has been heading straight for rocks for the past 60 episodes. There was no intention to sail into the rocks. It wasn’t their strengths that led to Imogen accepting Predathos; it was the same indecisiveness that has plagued them the entire campaign. They had 118 episodes to build a proper tragedy, and instead we have a story that took hundreds of hours to say that unreliable people shouldn’t be relied upon. The result has been numerous posts hoping for the Hells to suffer all sorts of consequences (TPK, specific player deaths, refusal of aid from the gods) for failing to commit to a course of action. Why? Because then at least there would be some type of cathartic satisfaction that Fucking Around means they’re going to Find Out. It has nothing to do with imaginary people deserving a better ending and everything to do with feeling like this ending would have been more satisfying around episode 50.

These criticisms are not about facets within the story; it's not about whether X character was correct, whether Y fucked up, whether Z plan was the better choice. It's that sometimes people don't land their bit for improv shows, and that is disappointing after seeing skilled storytellers do so well with prior campaigns.

[lyricthecat-12]

I urgently needed to talk about the last scene between Sonic and Shadow in the third movie, because I think what they did is simply beautiful. 🥹💙❤️🖤

Before Sonic 3 came out, there was debate over who would be the one to change Shadow's mind since at that point, there was no solid indication that Amy or Rouge would appear. I was a fan of the idea that maybe they'd have Jojo be the one to remind Shadow of Maria's wish, since she was an established character from the start and fits the profile like a cheerful, caring, and optimistic girl.

However, seeing that in the end they made it so that Sonic was the one who talked to Shadow and convinced him to fight to save the world, surprised me and at the same time fascinated me infinitely more. Because they managed to make the change organic by connecting it with narrative elements that were also raised and developed from the beginning; Sonic's grief over losing Longclaw and his paternal relationship with Tom, making this moment something special and significant for both of them:

It is a moment of connection and understanding between two people who have lost the person who was once the most important in their lives, who loved them when no one else did and gave them a home,

That for a long time they had to deal alone with the pain and guilt of having been the trigger for their deaths but, as they emphasize in the film, While Sonic was able to find a family that would love him and help him get better and cope with that pain, Shadow was alone and the only person he interacted with after awakening, only manipulated him in order to fulfill his revenge.

Until this moment, where Shadow finally meets someone who not only knows his pain perfectly but has also learned to move forward and not let it corrupt him even in the most difficult moments, and who in turn motivates him to do the same.

All of this contributes fantastically to their connection, as it is no longer just that their personalities and ways of acting are opposite, but also the way in which their stories correlate and at the same time distinguish each other, creating a new and emotional parallelism between them: They are two sides of the same coin, two extremes that ultimately come together to bring out the best in each other.

Which is beautifully reflected throughout the final battle. Sonic and Shadow display effortless synergy, supporting each other, backing each other up, and even casually joking around.

A good reminder of the great chemistry and dynamism they used to have years ago. Unlike now that they make it seem like Shadow barely tolerates Sonic, before they both had a friendly rivalry where they respected each other, valued each other and helped each other without problem. And I'm really glad the movie brought back some of that dynamic and reflected it in such a natural and fun way, and I hope that continues for future SCU projects instead of sticking to the current direction.

And I'm not just saying this because I'm a fan of Sonadow, but because I genuinely believe that this is the most natural direction for their relationship after all this time.

[everythingspokenfor]

𝓜𝓻. & 𝓜𝓻𝓼. 𝓑𝓪𝓴𝓾𝓰𝓸𝓾

Pairing: Bakugou x reader. All characters are aged up 18+. MDNI Summary: Arrange marriage doesn't seem so 'arranged' when your fiance does everything that makes you fall in love with him...

Fiance!Bakugou who starts picking you up after work once you both get engaged, initially to learn the roads in your work commute but eventually because he wants to ensure that you are engaged and soon to be married, to a particular guy at your work place that had been bothering you.

Fiance!Bakugou whom you invite over for dinner as an act of gratitude, to thank him for helping you.

Fiance!Bakugou who stands bemused, watching you hop around the kitchen to try and make him some dinner. Who finds your eagerness to cook for him and your nervousness to not mess up, endearing.

Fiance!Bakugou who eats the slightly burnt and somewhat salty meal you prepared irrespective of how much you claim that it was bad and you'll just order.

Fiance!Bakugou who teaches you, how to cook not because he expects you to cook when you are married but because cooking is an essential skill, and he wants you to be able to cook more than noodles for yourself when he isn't around.

Fiance!Bakugou who doesn't berate you when the vegetables are chopped unevenly but does berate you when you cut your fingers, doesn't suckle on your finger like those movies instead he cleans it up and puts a bandage on it. He does however kiss your finger then your forehead and ask you to sit on the counter next to him.

Fiance!Bakugou who despite his wish doesn't barge in when his mom is helping you try on the wedding dresses, he either goes to agency or works in his home office. Mind still wondering to what you would look like in the wedding dress.

Fiance!Bakugou who helps you move into his penthouse, a month before your marriage, just so you could settle in and get comfortable there. Get used to his presence, form a routine with him.

Fiance!Bakugou who introduces you to his friends, staying behind and watching you mingle with them.

Fiance!Bakugou who pulls you into the kitchen, making sure you are doing good with the crowd, asking if his friends are too much or if you want to end the night.

Fiance!Bakugou who develops the need to constantly touch, his hands always searching for you, holding your hand in a crowded train station, holding onto your elbow in a busy grocery store, hand on the small of your back when showing you around the agency.

Fiance!Bakugou who gets giddy as the wedding approaches, getting his suit tailored, matching with your dress, buying bedsheets and cutlery that you chose. Tries to add things to the penthouse that match your vibe, installs bookshelves around the house because he knows that you love to read.

Fiance!Bakugou who stands at the end of the altar, waiting for you, excited to finally call you his wife, excited to be finally addressed as your husband.

Husband!Bakugou who pulls you into a kiss when the officiator announces you husband and wife, who pulls away from the kiss to pull your into a tight embrace.

Husband!Bakugou who insists on helping you change out of the wedding dress into your reception gown, but Mina pushes him out stating how he has you for the rest of your lives but for now you'll stay with her.

Husband!Bakugou who makes you feel comfortable at the reception, a hand respectfully placed on your back, guiding around the crowd.

Husband!Bakugou who ensures that you don't get overwhelmed interacting with all the people at the reception venue, who makes sure that your voice doesn't get lost amongst the crowd.

Husband!Bakugou who still keeps an eye on your figure, when Mina whisk you away into 'girl's corner', shoves a large gift bag in your hands, "wear it tonight", she whispers in your ear, voice breaking into giggles.

You politely smile at her, talking along with other girls in the group, you absent-mindedly look around the crowd, eyes unintentionally locking with your husband.

His title making your belly flutter, despite only knowing each other for a year and a half, he has proven to be such a good man. You hope you would be good enough for him too.

Husband!Bakugou that struts towards your group, gently placing a hand against your back, fingertips hovering as to not startle you.

"Hopefully you didn't give My Wife a hard time," He spoke, other hand reaching to take the gift bag from your hands, effortlessly carrying all the bags that the girls had gotten you. He kisses your forehead, when you try to reach back for it.

"They were just talking." You move a little closer to Bakugou, head bowed down, fingers fidgeting with the lace of your evening dress, too shy to look your husband in the eyes.

"Well, sorry to interrupt but it's time for us leave." Bakugou announced, let you go to bid farewell to your girl friends. Pretending to look away, when they tease him, telling him to go easy on you.

Husband!Bakugou who helps you walk out the reception venue, one hand holding the gifts you've received all night the other holding your hand. Both of you reach the car and he helps you sit in the passenger seat, closing the door being mindful of your dress.

"What did the girls give you?" He questioned, starting the engine.

You flushed at the question, you weren't really aware of what the content of the bag were but you had a gist of what it could be. "It's just some clothes Mina picked out, I think." You answered.

"Well we'll find an occasion to wear fancy clothes again." He swayed the car out of the parking, completely oblivious to what kind of clothes you both were talking about.

"I don't think I could wear those in public." You mumbled, he looked over to you, but you avoided his eyes.

It barely took him a moment before he figured what Mina could have possibly gifted you. "Ah, it's lingerie, isn't it?", He confirmed.

"Don't say it out loud." You press your hands against your heating face, warmth spreading down your neck.

"Why are you shy? Husband and Wife can talk about lingerie." He teased, finding amusement in your shyness.

"It's just surreal, you know," you turned towards him,"the whole wedding, I mean, till yesterday I was dreaming about marrying you and told I married you." You sighed happily, the tiredness of the finally settling in.

"You were dreaming about marrying me, huh?" Bakugou teased, butterflies swarming his belly at the thought of you being just as excited to marry him.

"I was, you are too good, had to put a ring on it." You giggled, teasing him back, Bakugou looked at you with a glint in his eyes, scanning your features before turning back to the road.

It didn't take long before you both reached home, Bakugou parked the car in the garage, got out of the car and jogged towards your side, opening the door he helped you get out.

Instead of walking into your home, Husband!Bakugou pulls you towards the main entrance, confused you ask him, "Are we going somewhere?"

Bakugou looks at your face, before he dips and lifts you up, carrying you effortlessly, "Am carrying my wife home."

You giggled loudly while Bakugou walked inside the house, carrying you, ready to start your lives together.

[door-insurance]

Ahm, hello Life is Strange fandom- I got an announcement

I have been working on my own LiS fan visual novel

This is VortexVN,

You play as Victoria waking up from a hangover with no memory of the week prior, you are tasked with piecing together what happened between her and one of the 4 love interests.

And of course the love interests are:

-Chloe (Chaseprice)

-Max (Chasefield)

-Kate (Chasemarsh)

-Rachel (Amberchase)

The game starts with a quiz; you unlock a route by picking answers related to the character you wanna romance (they are very obvious)

It takes place in an AU where the events of LiS1 and BtS didn't really happen and there are no special powers, Victoria's still a bi tch- I guess that's her special powers.

Think of this game as a spiritual successor to Love is Strange by Team Rumblebee rather than Life is Strange 1

Gameplay so far is your typical point and click visual novel affair, you will be given options to explore rooms, examine objects and talk to other characters- the interactions will play a crucial part in how the game ends,

You can win the girl or get rejected or worse... It will depend on how Victoria carried herself throughout the game,

Mistreating certain characters may prove to be a dealbreaker for the love interest,

Each girl has two close friends in the dorm that you should not upset (I'll reveal who in the guide pdf)

This game is also perfect for Victoria haters as you can ruin her life

The game has its own journal system that will be different depending on who you're romancing, it also comes with a read button (I blurred most of the text so you can get curious and play the game)

Read button will display the journal content in Open Dyslexic font

In the demo you'll only get to explore Victoria's room and the dorm hallways and you'll get two encounters from Juliet (Showers) and Alyssa (Hallway)

VortexVN is still in development, I have finished part.1 of the project and will start polishing it soon- the initial build of part.1 will be available to play as a demo!

The cutscenes lack color and proper shading at the moment and you will find placeholders as well, the art style is all over the place- this will change after the polishing phase

Download links:

Mac and Windows

Web browser ver (I don't recommend that you play it on mobile, also the web version lacks animation and takes forever to load graphics)

programs used:

-Renpy (visual novel engine)

-Photoshop CS5 (Drawing/rendering/animating/designing)

-Clips studio (Texturing)

-tablet: XP-Pen Artist 13

Note: I'm not monetizing this project nor do I claim ownership of the Life is Strange ip, all materials and assets presented in this visual novel were either created by me or are royalty free- I did not lift anything from the games via data mining or by leaks

This game is not a response to or a gotcha at Life is Strange Double Exposure or Deck Nine, I didn't really dislike the game

Besides, I've had the idea of a Victoria centric fan game since the first LiS back in 2015

I'm open for feedbacks! You can DM me or reblog this with a review or something- maybe write a comment.

[sapphiresaphics]

To the ppl to hated Arcane season 2, is the knee jerk denial over yet?

Can we agree that S1 and S2 are both part of an amazing show?

That the themes of the show carried over, you just don’t have the ability to process pattern recognition?

That Piltover asking for Zaun’s help is meant to be lopsided in its request?

That Viktor’s “cure all weakness” has been an issue with Viktor since season 1 and was the whole reason he attempted to use the hexcore on his body?

That Jayce’s actions make perfect sense because it’s not about the destination, it’s the journey to get there?

That Viktor saving baby Jayce isn’t ambiguous at all, and that you should look up what that word means because I don’t think you meant that word?

That VI’s internal struggle since season 1 was which of the two people she cared about would she choose?

That Vander’s will to live is one of the most important catalysts in the series?

That Isha’s purpose in the show is to be a character foil for Jinx and that despite being there for character development she still had her own personality and intentions and you’re just sad she died?

That Jinx was always a jokester, you just hate people recovering and healing mental health issues. You also probably don’t understand what a resolution of a conflict means?

That Caitlyn was never a dictator and you should blame Ambessa for that and that she was always a good person pushed down a dark path because of trauma just like every other character in this show? And that she also lost an eye?

That Viktor never told Ambessa what his plans were and that she doesn’t care because her goal is to take on the Red Rose and she’ll use whatever magical power she wants and that this is intentionally supposed to be hypocritical of her beliefs?

That Silco knowing Vi and Powder’s mom actually strengthens the reason for why he would take Powder in once he saw her have a falling out with Vi just like he had a falling out with Vander? Also that he always knew who the kids were from the start and if you re-watch season 1 you’ll notice this if you actually pay attention so this isn’t a retcon you’re just stupid?

That Mel’s arc is actually about how she was trying very hard to be of the Merdada bloodline to get the approval of her mother only to find out that her heritage has been that of a Mage this entire time so her ambitions and desire to fit in were misguided and that she should be focused on who she is and what she wants and not what other people want her to be?

That Ekko convincing Jinx offscreen to join the fight doesn’t need to be shown because we’ve already seen Ekko teaming up with and falling back in love with Powder for an entire episode and that it would be redundant? And that just because you really wanted to see something doesn’t make it “bad writing?”

Is your knee-jerk reactionary idiocy over yet? CAN YOU USE A SECOND BRAIN CELL YET???

For ppl who liked Arcane season 2, is the honeymoon over yet?

Can we agree that S1 and S2 are completely different shows?

That none of the themes carried over between them?

That Piltover did nothing to earn Zaun coming to their rescue in the final battle?

That Viktor's "cure all weakness" shit came out of nowhere?

That understanding any of Jayce's actions post-talking to mageViktor requires a PhD in eyebrow twitches and nonsense?

That Viktor saving baby Jayce was an unambiguous retcon?

That Vi was just a cardboard cutout that Jinx and Caitlyn wrestled over?

That Vander lived and died at least 2 times too many?

That Isha was just a cute pet for Jinx to monologue at?

That Jinx turned from unhinged terrorist to a defanged, quirky jokester?

That Caitlyn's blink and you'll miss it dictator arc changed nothing and there were zero repercussions for it?

That Ambessa became a hypocritical moron whose anti-mage sentiment ate shit and died when she teamed up with robot mage Viktor, who didn't even PRETEND he wasnt going to hivemind her along with everyone else?

That Silco being close to Powder and Vi's mom, knowing them since they were born, only serves to weaken his relationship with Jinx?

That Mel went from a morally complex, savvy politician into a heroic battle mage, (in like 5 mins of screentime) while all other kinds of magic + Hextech were evil and corrupting and had to be destroyed?

That Ekko convinces Jinx that he went to an alternate reality and fell in love with her and she shouldnt kill herself and to become a revolutionary hero(?) OFF SCREEN?

IS THE HONEYMOON OVER YET?

[diableriedoll]

ᴠᴛᴍ ᴀꜱᴋꜱ; ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘʟᴀʏᴇʀ ᴇᴅɪᴛɪᴏɴ

We all know everyone's characters, but what do we know about the player behind the Kindred? Let's find out!

These lean more into the TTRPG side of the game but I've tried to make them more inclusive to those who haven't had a table top game!

1.Are you a VtM player, storyteller, both or neither? If neither, how do you get your VtM fix? 2. How and when did you get into VtM? 3. Which edition do you play/ prefer? 4. What's your favourite clan? Why? 5. What's your least favourite clan? Why? 6. Which clan haven't you played/ developed but would love to try? 7. What is your favourite discipline? Why? 8. Describe your worst Messy Critical and/ or Bestial Failure that you've played/ seen/ suffered 9. What's your favourite piece of VtM Media? eg. Games, books.. The TV series... 10. What's been your favourite interaction throughout your VtM experiences? Can be in game, playing video games.. anything.

You and Your Characters 11. How many characters do you have? 12. Who was your first Character? 13. Do you have a comfort character? What makes them special to you? 14. Who is the (in character) oldest and the (in character) youngest? Would they like each other? 15. Do any of your characters have a trait or flaw of your own? If so, what is it? 16. Do you have a character that was created from a dumb/ silly idea but now you can't imagine not having them? 17. You suddenly switch places with one of your characters, which one would you prefer to be? 18. One of your characters takes your place, which one would you prefer to control of your life? 19. Which character is least spoken about? Speak about them now! 20. Is there something specific that influences you for your character creations?

This or That 21. Tremere or Salubri? 22. Ventrue or Lasombra? 23. Banu Haqim or The Ministry? 24. Caine or Lilith? 25. Blood Sorcery or Thinblood Alchemy? 

BONUS QUESTIONS! You have been given a chance to play your perfect Chronicle, let's build it!  26. Who is your Storyteller? 27. Where and when is it set? 28. What is your sect? 29. What clan are you going for? 30. Your Coterie is yourself plus four other players. Who are they? (Can be anyone!)

[aventurineswife]

Hi! Could you write anything about Dan Heng's S/O making him laugh and/or smile brightly? Like, not his usual quiet chuckle and a small smile but full on laugh and a wide smile, almost a grin. (I hope it makes sense) And the reader is in awe because they've never seen Dan Heng like that and it feels almost like they're falling in love all over again.

Please and thank you.

“You make me feel like I’m falling in love again”

Summary: While aboard the Astral Express, you attempt to make Dan Heng laugh by introducing a silly plush toy into the mix. To your surprise, you manage to get a full-on laugh and a wide, rare smile from him—something you’ve never seen before. In that moment, you’re reminded of the side of him that is soft and open, and you feel like you’re falling in love with him all over again.

Tags: Dan Heng x Reader, Fluff, Humor, Lighthearted, Character Development, Soft Dan Heng, Rare Smile, Falling in Love over again (I love this trope or whatever it is called 🥺🫶), Established Relationship.

The Astral Express was quiet as it usually was, with the faint hum of the engine and the occasional rustle of paper filling the otherwise calm air. The crew had settled into their usual places, each person wrapped in their own thoughts. You were in the small lounge area, leaning against the table, watching Dan Heng out of the corner of your eye as he sat nearby, quietly reading a book.

You couldn’t help but notice how serene he looked, his usual calm expression ever-present as he read, the only movement being the occasional flick of his page. Despite his calm exterior, there was always something slightly distant about him—a wall he kept firmly up between himself and the rest of the world. It was rare to see him genuinely smile, let alone laugh.

You smiled to yourself, thinking of how long you’d been by his side. You'd seen glimpses of the softer sides of him: the fleeting smiles, the small chuckles that escaped him from time to time, but never anything too intense. He was always so composed, so controlled.

That thought lingered in your mind, and suddenly, an idea struck. You'd seen him smile during small, quiet moments, so what if you could bring out something a little more? You glanced around the room, eyes darting over the pile of old, strange items that had been accumulating near the engine, the odd trinkets that the crew had picked up on their travels. One in particular caught your attention—a small, colorful plush toy that someone (read: March 7th) had left on a nearby shelf.

It wasn’t the most elegant thing, but it was silly and bright, a stark contrast to the usual serious air Dan Heng carried with him. You took a deep breath and decided to go for it.

You quietly reached for the plush toy, sneaking up behind Dan Heng, who was still engrossed in his book. You held the toy up in front of your face, and with a dramatic voice, you declared, “What do you think of my new companion, Sir Cloud-Piercer?”

Dan Heng didn’t respond immediately, his focus still on the book in front of him. But you didn’t give up. You tilted the toy in different directions, trying your best to make the little creature appear as absurdly serious as possible. "It’s very well-behaved, but its skills in battle are questionable," you added, your voice adopting a mock-serious tone.

The silence in the room stretched for a beat, and then, without warning, Dan Heng’s eyes flicked toward you. He blinked, and then—almost imperceptibly—a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. But you didn’t stop. You held the plush higher, waggling it a little. “I’m thinking of naming it ‘Sir Fluffington,’ what do you think?”

And then, to your complete surprise, Dan Heng let out a laugh.

It was loud—louder than you had ever heard him, a sound so unexpected that it caught you off guard. His laugh wasn’t quiet, the usual chuckle he gave when something amused him. This was different. This was genuine, almost free, the kind of laugh you only hear when someone truly feels at ease. His eyes sparkled in that rare way, and his usual controlled demeanor seemed to soften, even for just a moment.

And then came the smile. Not the reserved, small smile you were used to, but a wide, unguarded grin that seemed to stretch from ear to ear, a rare display of warmth you hadn't quite witnessed before. His eyes crinkled with amusement, and for a split second, you felt like you were seeing him for the first time—truly seeing him.

You were frozen for a second, taking in the sight of him. The way his expression was so open, so unburdened, it made your heart flutter in your chest. It was like you were falling in love with him all over again. This side of him, so raw and real, was something you didn’t see every day, and it made your stomach twist with happiness.

Dan Heng noticed your expression, his grin faltering slightly as he saw the awe in your eyes. “I didn’t realize you could be so... ridiculous,” he said, his voice still holding the remnants of laughter.

You could only shake your head, a wide smile breaking across your own face. “I’m just glad I could make you laugh like that,” you admitted, your voice a little softer now. “It’s rare to see you so... carefree.”

Dan Heng hesitated for a moment, his expression softening again. “I suppose it’s because I’m with you.” His voice was quieter, and though his smile was more subdued now, the sincerity in it made your heart skip a beat.

You walked over and sat beside him, the plush toy still clutched in your hands. “I never thought I’d get to see you like this,” you said, leaning your head on his shoulder.

Dan Heng didn’t say anything for a moment, but his arm brushed against yours as he leaned a little closer, a quiet acknowledgment of your words. The air between you was calm, but it held something deeper now—a connection that was more open than it had been before.

And for once, in this small, quiet moment, you knew that no matter the past or the shadows that haunted him, there was a light in Dan Heng, a warmth he only shared with those he trusted. And you, right now, were one of those people.

You smiled to yourself, watching him as he turned his attention back to the book, but you knew something had shifted, and it made your heart swell.

No, you weren’t just falling in love again. You had already fallen, deeper than before.

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Hey do you give advice for writing romantic relationships between characters? If so, any tips on how to write a organic transition from friendship to romance. Any help would be appreciated thank you in advance:)

Writing Notes: Friends-to-Lovers

Two characters have maintained a relationship long enough to grow it from acquaintances to friendship. They have things in common. They respect each other. Consider…

Why are they only getting together now? Are they settling? Is it a timing thing? These have to be the two least romantic options in the history of romance.

What could be better than having someone know you for exactly who you are and deciding you’re irresistible? There is actually an answer to this, and it’s this: being able to trust your heart to someone who has already proven they’re worthy of it.

With enemies-to-lovers, the characters start out not liking each other. In friends-to-lovers, it’s a given that the reverse is true.

However, in the latter, it may not be enough for the love interest to be just likeable.

If your story is going to document someone’s exit from the friend zone, they also need to be desirable.

Consider some sex appeal here. You don’t want your readers picturing little Johnny or Jenny from next door who they always knew they should like. You want them picturing the person they thought they couldn’t like.

Example: Hugh Jackman’s playboy character in Someone Like You. While Ashley Judd was viewing him as undateable, the audience had time to properly fall in love with him. We knew we could trust him long before she did, and we were thrilled when her eyes were finally opened to his good qualities.

Why couldn’t one friend like the other before, but they can like them now?

With enemies-to-lovers, there are two things that need to happen. There’s the event that causes them to be at odds, and then there’s something that brings them together.

With friends-to-lovers, the transition can begin with a single change.

All you need is a reason for one person to see the other through new eyes.

Is one of them suddenly single? Did one of them dive into a pond Colin-Firth-Darcy-style, emerging with their shirt see-through and clinging to their unexpectedly well-defined abs? Did one-too-many tequilas work their magic?

It may be much easier to turn friends into lovers you can believe in and root for than it is for two characters who have been treating each other poorly.

All of our friends have characteristics that initially attracted us to them. As writers, all we have to do is deepen that attraction.

The stakes must be set.

With enemies-to-lovers, this is usually built into the story. Whatever has put the characters at odds can generally be relied on to test the relationship. But what about friends?

How do we raise their stakes? It can, of course, be built into the story just like with an enemies-to-lovers storyline.

But the cool thing about friends-to-lovers is that we have their entire history to mine from as well.

We also have a shared social circle to work with.

The stakes for friends-to-lovers feel more realistic and pressing.

A sexy fling with an enemy can be laughed off the next day, but a failed romance with a close friend can change the landscape of your life.

D.A. Stinson et al. (2022) examined how romance develops, as well as how studies have covered the progression in a piece entitled “The Friends-to-Lovers Pathway to Romance.”

They begin by recognizing that although there are multiple pathways to romance, the science of relationship study does not reflect this variety; instead focusing primarily on romance that builds between strangers as opposed to friends. They note that this type of concentration might make sense if friends-first romances were atypical or unfavorable, but note that their research reveals the opposite.

Conducting a meta-analysis of seven samples of university students and crowdsourced adults, Stinson et al. found that two-thirds described being friends first, which was also the preferred method of initiation among university students. Taken together, their studies affirm that although overlooked by relationship science to some extent, being friends before the initiation of a romantic relationship is not only prevalent, but preferred.

Pathway From Platonic to Romantic

Stinson et al. note that relationship scientists recognize at least 2 kinds of intimacy.

One is friendship-based,defined as “a cognitive and emotional experience comprising psychological interdependence, warmth, and understanding, related to the companionate love that nurtures long-term intimate bonds.”

The other is passion-based intimacy, defined as “a primarily emotional experience comprising romance and positive arousal, related to the passionate love that typifies novel, and often sexual, relationships.”

Stinson et al. also note that the dominant dating script proposes men’s passion as the sensation that sparks initial interaction between potential paramours, after which time passion-based intimacy and friendship-based intimacy develop concurrently. But does this reflect reality? Apparently, the answer is a matter of perspective and perception—of the individuals involved, as well as interested observers.

Romantic Rumors

Many cross-friendships spark more than romance; they spark rumors. Researchers have found that celebrity websites often promote the idea that men and women cannot be “just friends.” Andrea McDonnell and Clare M. Mehta (2016) explored this issue in a piece entitled “We Could Never Be Friends: Representing Cross-Sex Friendship on Celebrity Gossip Web Sites.” They note that although psychological scholarship is mixed on the topic of cross-sex friendship, media representations often reflect the homosocial norm, which asserts a preference to spend time with members of one’s same sex, implying that cross-sex relationships are necessarily sexual in nature.

Regardless of individual views on the homosocial norm, many employees can relate to McDonnell and Mehta’s observation that cross-sex friendships can spark suspicion and scrutiny by others who assume such relationships are romantic or sexual. This is true even in a day and age where they are not only common in general, but commonplace in the workplace.

For coworkers, neighbors, or “just” friends who find themselves wondering if there might be the potential to move a relationship to the next level, slow and steady positive development of trust and common interests often evolve not just in the presence of friends and family, colleagues and coworkers, but with their full endorsement. As demonstrated by many couples who have successfully navigated this “dateless” path down the aisle to the altar, easy, comfortable, relationships often develop into healthy romantic, lifelong partnerships of love and respect.

Sources: 1 2 3 ⚜ More: Notes & References ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

Hope this helps with your writing :)

[alaskan-wallflower]

maybe that’s just randys code name he was actually there 🙂‍↕️

Musical has gaslit people into thinking Marcia was with some rando named Trip. So let me remind you. She Was Not. She’s with that one guy Randy. You know. Bob’s best friend. Who helped hold Ponyboy’s head in the fountain. The guy who backed out of the rumble because he couldn’t stomach any more violence. Who proved that socs could change. They were more than their environment. And he went on to became a weed-smoking peace ‘n love hippy with a volkswagen van.

Yeah, that Randy.

[melosliving]

aaron pierre x actress!reader

suspect is… but it gets softer every time

It couldn’t be the worst time to do this : it was quite late, the day had just ended on another long series of interviews and photoshoots, running around to promote the new lion king movie, but here you were, giggling to yourselves as you stood in the corridors leading to your respective rooms.

"Tell me why you should be the one starting the tiktok again ?" asks Aaron, his back on one of the walls. He was still dressed in his day clothes, all in black. "Because ladies first, and you’re a gentleman are you not ?" You answered, raising an eyebrow at him playfully.

"okay, let’s do it !" you put yourselves in position, Aaron at the left and you at the right. You hold your phone up, starting to film while walking. "suspect looks like scar but wanted to be the main character." Looking back at you, aaron stops in his track, putting his hand on his mouth "wow ! that’s crazy work, ✦".

The video then cuts to you walking as you’re now seen on the screen. "Suspect swears she has the biggest back in London." He says, trying to surpass his laughter but couldn’t help it when he saw your shocked face. " you know im right ! I am confident in my arse." You say proudly.

"Suspect almost became a stepdad." You add, now filming him walking. "Wooow, really ? you want to do me dirty like this ?". This game was becoming a bit too funny. Tears were almost coming to your lash line as you laughed when reminiscing about the day he told you about one of his ex. "Suspect asked kelvin to marry her so she could have the green card."

Now, this was interesting. You stopped walking, turning to him with a guilty smile. "and DID ! I mean, he told me he would do it, so don’t be jealous…"

"suspect is a big back. Always trying to eat from my plate when he has his !" actually, this was true. With the amount of time y’all and the cast were spending together, lunches and dinners were now tradition, and overtime aaron had developed the habit of eating in both his and your plate at the same time. "I already told you, the food is better when it comes from your plate ! I don’t make rules." He retorted, his cheeks reddening a bit.

Phone in hand, aaron started to walk with you, "suspect can’t sleep without hearing my voice." he told everybody, airing out your little secret. "I do actually, I can’t help it I love your voice." You admit, looking at him with this cute frown of yours. "Suspect is really really handsome and talented." You added, smiling at aaron as he stopped walking.

"Anw, lovie.." he answered, coming towards you to hug you. Still recording, your giggles were heard as your face went in his chest as y’all were hugging. Last but not least, "suspect deserves the world, every bit of happiness that comes towards her." Finally said aaron, teeth all out as he smiled at your surprised face.

"You love me.. like I know you actually love me." You said, trying your best not to laugh as you started to pout before you took your phone back to stop the video.

#tiktok!comments

@user1 not the green card 😭

@kelvin harrison jr I always knew he wanted to be me 🙄❤️

@starsliving who wouldn’t want to be you ?🤰🏽🤱🏽

@user2 they actually look good together stop meee

@LionKing I know mufasa and sarabi have been enjoying themselves 🦁❤️

@kelvin harrison jr don’t star now. I’ll get maddd

@user3 raw (both of them). next question

@user4 it’s the height difference for me

@ starsliving everything aaron said in this tiktok is pure defamation

@aaronpierre you know you’re lying 🤥

@user5 look at how his eyes glistened when she told him he was handsome AND talented 🥹

@ melosliving 2025

[affableramen]

hiii i love ur writing and i have a request. what do u think pantalone would do if reader got a vision? tysm!!!!!

Hi, thanks so much

Actually it is a very complicated situation both in terms of emotions and future interaction of the characters. I think there could be 2 possible scenarios of how this case could develop:

The reader is hiding existence of her Vision for a long time, wanting Pantalone to feel closer and more similar to her in terms of being a loser, unsuccessful and not chosen. Yet she ends up getting a Vision after all.

Potentially it would mean that she is lying to him and sooner or later he will find out about it, as we all know Pantalone is a pure character of wisdom, there is nothing to slip off his fingers. In this case he would call her privately to his office and plan the discussion with cold mindset. He would even make his own lines in his head to not appear agitated (he is very agitated and shaky, but because it is also Pantalone we may not even see it – he is a good example of artless subtlety).

The reason for you to hide your Vision from him is because you would like to make him feel safe and protected, knowing that you are just as desparate and lonely as him. Around you there is a bunch of ‘heroes’, Vision users which make Pantalone most definitely feel like a black sheep. Knowing that you obtained no Vision he found himself comfortable, given the feeling ‘Yes, she is just like me’. After a while this however vanishes, once he learns you actually possess one. He cannot be mad at you, because he realises it is your responsibility to wield one, but he cannot deny how infuriated he becomes because of your lies. In this case I think he needs time and the best you can do for him is just leave him alone for a while before he cools off. He will, for sure, have a long ass conversation with you about why you’d keep it secret from him. In this case you just calmly explain him the situation that you wanted for him to feel better and you to not be the one priveleged.

However if acquiring the Vision was a recent achievement for you and Pantalone discovers it in the real time, he will be extremely shaken as the situation happens right in front of his eyes, and he is the spectator. When it is something that happened before you knew him, it is more likely acceptable for him because he does not hold power over your achievement, however if you get one during a relationship (or simply encounter, let’s imagine the two of you are not necessarily lovers) it will be difficult for him because it is something he could not control.

***

Pantalone was sitting in his headquarters, his hand gripped the glass of whiskey when he called you in. The guards carefully led the way to his private office and shut the door tightly, making room for you and Regrator to have a private conversation.

His fingers gripping the glass were shaking slightly which was definitely ironic, considering how usually composed he was, in front of you included.

As the door was closed you slowly approached his desk but stopped at a reasonable distance as you sensed the cold atmosphere between you two. It felt like Pantalone was not ready at all to let you in closer.

“You got a Vision”, he didn't ask you, rather stated a fact. A fact that raised both panic and frustration in you as you understand how it might affect the relationship between you two.

In all his hundreds of years he never got one, but you received it just in your twenties. His blood must have been boiling.

“I got it just recently.”

His playing with the whiskey glass stopped and he looked at you. The lights reflected the metal of his silver glasses which would only add coolness to the already icy room.

“How did you get it?”

That was the question you feared the most. Yet he already asked you in, and you had no point in lying and keeping things to yourself. You were not currently on good terms exactly and suffered quite an argument however Pantalone still treated you as a valuable asset, with a possible development of you into his official lover. Or at least that’s what you wanted to believe in. You wanted to feel as someone important to him, and it wasn't entirely stupid. It’s just that it was above his icy-cold rationality.

“Actually, after I fought you”, you responded quietly, your voice suddenly breaking, no matter how anxious you were, you felt as if you had to. “I got my Vision after I fought you.”

Pantalone scoffed,

“Wonderful. Amazing. You got what you wanted, didn't you?”

“I do not understand you.”

Pantalone shifted in his seat and finally stood up, he approached you with solid steps.

“Wasn’t it your dream – defeating me? I thought you would feast upon my sufferings. But you seem reluctant to it. What, cat got your tongue?” he would continue mocking you, his face inches away from yours, but his eyes were glassy once he opened them, as if he were crying all night like a teenager after being bullied at school.

“You know it is not like this. I dreamt of Vision, but when I met you, I promised I wouldn’t be seduced by its power.”

“Yes, that’s what you promised. And look at yourself now”, circling over you languidly, Pantalone used an excruciatingly degrading tone. “Now you’re chosen. You’re a hero. And what heroes do? They defeat villains. And that’s exactly what you did.”

“I never wanted this”, you tried to convey some thoughts into his head, to soothe him, but Pantalone immediately became blind to all your opinions. “It is not my fault that the Vision appeared to me. I didn't force it to come.”

“You want me to believe in this bullshit? You used me like a piece of meat to only leave me in shambles and get your little artifact. And now I am nothing in your eyes except for a villainous Harbinger.”

His words hurt and you could not deny it. Your hand softly grazed his fingers, not inviting into a intimate contact but making it enought for him to have shivers down his spine.

“Your tongue is spilling poison, as always, but weren't you mad now, you would never say such things to me. You just need to cool down.” With those, you exited his office, leaving him completely alone with his dark thoughts. But the way you touched his hand was so warm and gentle, he felt as if he needed more of those, and his conflicting thoughts were messing around his mind. He was weaker than this, he wanted you back immediately.

“I did not allow you to leave my office yet”, he spat. “Come back.

You’d ignore him and decisively leave without looking bad knowing that it would be better for him.

“I said come back here you idiot!” He’d scream and run after you, but it was late and made no sense. He fell to his knees, both his traumatic experience and alcohol taking a toll on him. Weak in his legs, he silently started sobbing, his head hanging down as he found himself completely shattered and unable to hold back tears. How could a mere mortal obtain a Vision while he was the one waiting for it for almost 400 years? This is unfair! How is he worse than anyone? How is yourself better than him? Where did he make a mistake? Why is he such a failure? Is he a joke, a mistake of this world?

You thought that once he’d be tranquil again, you’d visit him and make amends, but currently all he could do was accuse you of something you weren't guilty of. However, once the quiet sobs reached out to your ears, you made your way back from the staircase to his office. Upon entering the lavish, elegant decorum of his headquarters you see a not so elegant man sitting on the floor like a pathetic mess. The sight was nothing you would ever expect from him and if such a rational and reserved man acted this way, it would only mean the pain was insufferable. It is stupid, you thought, but you got nothing to lose, as you kneeled down to him and took his hands in yours, the cold leather of his gloves rubbing against your hands as you embraced him, trying to share the heat with his shaking body. And he let you do this, surrendering himself to you as he realised all you ever did for him was caring, not taking. And he had no right to accuse you of obtaining a Vision, no matter how hard it was to his chest.

[cocobeanncteez]

The CEO Collision - Part Two

Pairing: CEO!Seonghwa x CEO!reader (f)

Warnings / content for Part Two: Suggestive content, reader has a wet dream, alcohol consumption, making out, profanities. Please note that other than Ateez, all other character names used are fictional.

Word Count: 9.7k

Masterlist for The CEO Collision

The grand ballroom of the Signiel Hotel was an epitome of elegance. Towering chandeliers bathed the room in golden light, illuminating the clusters of influential figures in healthcare and technology. Conversations hummed in the air, accompanied by the occasional clinking of glasses and laughter.

You stepped into the hall, your maroon blazer and tailored trousers cutting a sharp silhouette. You carried yourself with the poise expected of a CEO, even as the weight of the weekend’s unresolved tension lingered in the back of your mind.

The event organizer greeted you with a warm smile as you approached. “Ms. Kim, welcome! We’re thrilled you could join us. Your keynote has already stirred a lot of excitement.”

You returned the smile with a nod. “Thank you. It’s an honor to be part of such an esteemed gathering.”

As you exchanged pleasantries, a flicker of movement from across the room caught your eye. Your chest tightened when you realized who it was.

Seonghwa.

He stood near a group of executives, his presence effortlessly commanding attention. The navy suit he wore seemed almost too perfect, as if he had been sculpted to fit the very image of a polished CEO. His hair was neatly styled, his expression calm, and yet the sharp edge of his gaze reminded you of how easily he could unravel your composure. You forced yourself to look away, turning your attention back to the organizer and engaging in small talk with other attendees.

The conference was in full swing when you found yourself at one of the refreshment stations, a glass of sparkling water in hand. You had been navigating conversations all morning, but the weight of Seonghwa’s presence never left your periphery.

“Ms. Kim Y/N,” a smooth, familiar voice broke through the din, sending a ripple of unease down your spine.

You turned, finding Seonghwa standing a few feet away, a neutral expression on his face that did little to hide the intensity in his eyes.

“Mr. Park,” you said, keeping your tone even. “I didn’t realize Byeol Materials Group was participating in this conference.”

“We’re presenting on the new technologies we’re developing during the afternoon panel,” he replied, his gaze steady. “I assume you’re delivering the keynote?”

“I am,” you confirmed, lifting your glass to take a measured sip. You refused to let him see how his presence unsettled you, especially after what had happened on Friday night.

The hum of voices around you faded into the background as the tension between you and Seonghwa thickened. His presence had a way of throwing you off balance, though you fought hard to maintain your composure. “Let’s not make this personal,” you said quietly, leaning in just enough to ensure only he could hear you. “There’s too much media here for any drama.”

His lips curved into the faintest smirk. “I wasn’t aware I was being dramatic. But if you say so.”

You shot him a pointed look, but before you could respond, a familiar voice interrupted.

“Ms. Kim, Mr. Park,” the event organizer chimed in cheerfully. “The media would love to capture a few shots of you both together as you attended the same university.”

Your stomach flipped. You hesitated for only a fraction of a second before stepping forward, fully aware of the eyes and cameras trained on you. Seonghwa, ever the picture of confidence, moved to stand beside you. “Shall we, Ms. Kim?” he said, his tone unreadable.

You forced a professional smile as the cameras clicked, capturing the two of you side by side. The flashes felt like a spotlight on the unspoken tension, the memories of Friday night simmering just beneath the surface.

As the photographers thanked you and dispersed, Seonghwa leaned in slightly, his voice low and quiet enough for only you to hear. “Careful, Y/N. You might just get used to being by my side.”

You didn’t respond, instead stepping away with a polite nod to the organizer and heading toward the next group of attendees. But his words lingered, unsettling and infuriating all at once.

The conference hall’s grand stage gleamed under the soft spotlight as the emcee’s voice filled the room. “And now, we’ll begin the much-anticipated showcase segment. Some of the most influential figures in the industry are here to present their groundbreaking work.”

Polite applause followed. You smoothed your blazer and checked the time, knowing your turn was coming. From the agenda, you’d noted Seonghwa was presenting before you.

“First, please welcome Mr. Park Seonghwa, CEO of Byeol Materials Group.”

The applause swelled as Seonghwa strode to the stage with his signature confidence, the tailored lines of his suit emphasizing his poised demeanor. You watched, arms crossed, trying to ignore the sudden quickening of your pulse.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” he began, his voice smooth and commanding, “Byeol Materials Group has been at the forefront of supplying essential components for the medical field. Today, I’m proud to unveil our latest innovation—nanostructured alloys designed to enhance the durability and efficiency of surgical instruments.”

The screen behind him lit up with sleek graphics, detailing the intricate design of the materials. He explained their applications in minimally invasive surgeries and how they reduced wear and tear over time. The room buzzed with interest.

“Furthermore,” Seonghwa continued, “our alloys are 30% lighter than current industry standards, making them easier for surgeons to handle during long procedures. Our goal has always been to empower the medical community with tools that improve patient outcomes.”

He finished with a confident smile, and the applause was thunderous. You couldn’t deny his charisma or the quality of the work Byeol Materials had achieved. It was a shame that his company was struggling despite the quality work they produce.

As he stepped off the stage, his gaze found yours in the crowd. His expression was unreadable, but you refused to let it rattle you.

After a couple more people pitched their products, it was your turn. “And now,” the emcee announced, “please welcome Ms. Kim Y/N, CEO of Aurum Medical Technologies.”

You walked onto the stage, your heels clicking against the polished floor. The room was silent, expectant. Taking a deep breath, you stepped up to the podium and smiled. “Good afternoon, everyone,” you began, your voice steady. “At Aurum Medical Technologies, we believe that innovation should always serve the people who need it most. Today, I’m excited to introduce our latest device: the VITRA-Scan 360.”

The screen behind you came alive with visuals of a sleek, handheld device. “The VITRA-Scan 360 is a portable diagnostic tool designed for rural and underserved areas. It combines ultrasound, X-ray, and thermal imaging into one compact unit, making it easier for healthcare providers to make accurate diagnoses without the need for large, expensive machinery.”

You noticed some members of the audience leaning forward, intrigued. “This device operates on solar power, ensuring functionality even in areas with inconsistent electricity. It’s lightweight, affordable, and, most importantly, accessible.”

Your voice warmed as you spoke about the pilot program in remote areas and the lives already improved by the device. You finished with a confident smile. “Our mission at Aurum is simple: to make advanced healthcare available to everyone, everywhere.”

The applause was louder than you’d expected, and you felt a rush of pride. As you stepped down, you caught Seonghwa watching you from his table, his expression unreadable.

Later, as the attendees mingled, you were approached by a journalist. “Ms. Y/N, your presentation was truly inspiring. How do you see Aurum and Byeol collaborating in the future, given the synergy between your device and their materials?”

You froze for a fraction of a second before answering smoothly. “Our companies have always shared a commitment to innovation in healthcare. If an opportunity arises for collaboration, I’m sure we’d both consider it carefully.”

Seonghwa, who had been nearby, joined the conversation effortlessly. “I couldn’t agree more,” he said, his tone perfectly diplomatic. “It’s always a pleasure seeing Aurum’s work align with industry advancements.”

The journalist beamed. “That’s fantastic to hear. Thank you both.”

As they left, Seonghwa turned to you with a slight smirk. “That sounded convincing.”

You raised an eyebrow. “It’s called professionalism, Seonghwa. You should try it sometime.”

His chuckle was low, almost amused. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Before you could respond, someone else pulled you into another conversation, but the tension between you and Seonghwa lingered, crackling like a live wire in the air.

As the conference continued, you found yourself navigating the various discussions and networking opportunities, but your mind kept returning to Seonghwa. Every time you caught sight of him, you couldn’t ignore the undercurrent of tension between the two of you. The forced pleasantries were getting more difficult to maintain, but you had learned to be professional above all else.

During a brief break, you found yourself standing by the refreshments table, absently swirling a glass of water. Your thoughts drifted to the words he had said earlier in the day—“You might just get used to being by my side.” The audacity of it still burned, but something else stirred in you too. A vague curiosity, maybe, or the faintest trace of regret.

You didn’t want to think about it.

-x-x-x-

The following morning, as you sat in your office going over emails and reviewing the updates on the VITRA-Scan project, Nari walked in holding her phone with a slightly amused expression.

“Ms. Y/N, you might want to take a look at this,” she said, a hint of a smile playing at her lips.

You frowned. “What’s this about?”

She handed you her phone, and you saw the headline of an article displayed clearly on the screen.

"CEO Kim Y/N and CEO Park Seonghwa: Serving the Healthcare Industry and Serving Looks"

Your heart sank a little. It wasn’t just a professional headline—it was as if they were already making assumptions about something personal. You read the first few lines.

"At the prestigious Healthcare Conference held this past weekend in Seoul, CEO Kim Y/N of Aurum Medical Technologies, a subsidiary company under her family’s conglomerate, Celestia Croup, and CEO Park Seonghwa of Byeol Materials Group not only made waves with their innovative presentations, but also sparked speculation about the future of their companies. With both companies focused on advancing medical technology, the collaboration between them seems like a natural next step."

So far, so good. Just business, as expected. But then the tone shifted, and your stomach tightened.

"However, the most talked-about part of the event wasn’t just their companies’ potential collaboration. The chemistry between the two CEOs was impossible to ignore. Industry experts are already buzzing about the possibility of a personal connection beyond the professional one. While neither Kim Y/N nor Park Seonghwa have commented on their relationship, their interactions at the event seemed to suggest there’s more than meets the eye."

You rolled your eyes. The media was already spinning stories based on the brief moments you and Seonghwa had shared. The article went on:

"Sources have hinted at the growing bond between the two CEOs. Both have shared interest in shaping the future of the medical field. It is widely known that Kim Y/N’s twin brother, Kim Hongjoong, Vice Chairman of Celestia Group, is best friends with Park Seonghwa for many years, and the twins and Park Seonghwa attended the same high school and university for their bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Despite their obvious success, they’ve remained largely private about their personal lives, fueling speculation that a union between them could not only change the future of healthcare but could also create a power couple the business world has yet to see."

The article continued to speculate about the chemistry, the potential for collaboration, and even touched on the possibility of future announcements—though no engagement was explicitly mentioned. But still, you could feel the heat rising in your cheeks. This was so far from reality, and yet here it was, being portrayed as something much bigger.

You passed the phone back to Nari. “This is ridiculous. Just because Seonghwa and I talk doesn’t mean we’re some... power couple.”

She raised an eyebrow. "Well, it doesn’t not mean that. The media is always looking for a narrative, Ms. Y/N. And honestly, you two do make a lot of sense, business-wise. But I know you're not exactly thrilled about them connecting the dots personally."

You rubbed your forehead. “It's just—why can't they focus on the business? We literally spent hours talking about our companies and the future of medical technology. But instead, they’re already making us out to be something we’re not.”

Nari was quiet for a moment, clearly choosing her words carefully. “I get it. But you know how it works. You're in the spotlight now, and they’re going to keep coming back to this. Whether you like it or not, they see two powerful CEOs, and it’s hard for them not to imagine what that could mean beyond the boardroom.”

You sighed heavily, feeling the weight of everything. "But it's not like that. Not for me, anyway. Not yet."

“Well, whatever happens, just remember that you’ve got control over how you let all of this affect you,” Nari said, offering you a reassuring smile. "You're in charge of your own narrative. They can speculate all they want, but at the end of the day, it's your life."

You nodded, trying to shake off the frustration. “Yeah, you're right. I just wish they'd focus on the real story—the work, the innovation. Not whatever this other story they’ve invented is.”

Nari chuckled lightly. "Well, you're certainly giving them something to talk about. I can’t imagine how they would react when your families announce your engagement."

You couldn’t help but roll your eyes. “Yeah, and I’m sure I’ll be hearing about it for the weeks.”

-

Seonghwa sat at his sleek, modern desk, scanning through reports when a ping interrupted his concentration. It was a news notification, and his eyes immediately went to the headline:

"CEO Kim Y/N and CEO Park Seonghwa: Serving the Healthcare Industry and Serving Looks"

He arched an eyebrow and clicked the link, his lips curling into a smirk as he read through the article. The write-up was as expected—professional at first, but it didn’t take long for the media to start speculating. About you both. He could already feel a hint of satisfaction stirring in his chest. Despite how much he tried to keep things strictly business between him and you, the media always had a way of making things look more... personal.

His secretary and close friend, Wooyoung, who had been in the corner of the office, immediately caught wind of the article as well. Wooyoung’s loud voice broke the silence. "Ooooh, what’s this?" Wooyoung’s grin was almost too wide, and Seonghwa barely managed to suppress an eye-roll. “Is that you and Y/N, CEO Park? Looking mighty cozy there."

Seonghwa, still amused by the article, leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers on the desk. "Seems like the press is already shipping us, huh?"

Wooyoung bounced over to him, peering at the screen. "Look at that—chemistry between you two. They’re practically writing a love story for you." He chuckled, crossing his arms. “Should I start calling her ‘Mrs. Park Y/N’ now?”

Seonghwa snorted softly, glancing at Wooyoung, who was holding back a teasing grin. “I’ve always told you, Woo, the press knows how to spin everything. We’re both CEOs, working together on important projects. There’s nothing more to it.”

Wooyoung raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. “Right, right. Nothing but pure business, like as if your parents didn’t ask for her hand in marriage.” He leaned in a bit closer. “But the way you’re looking at that photo—if it were up to me, I’d say you’re enjoying the attention.”

Seonghwa didn’t reply immediately. Instead, he zoomed in on the picture from the conference, both of you standing next to one another, engaged in a conversation that looked way too intimate to the public eye. He couldn't help but admire how you looked together—professionally, yes, but also with undeniable chemistry that he hadn’t exactly planned on showing. Still, he couldn’t deny a small part of him liked it.

In a swift movement, he took a screenshot of the picture. Wooyoung caught the action immediately.

"No way,” Wooyoung grinned. “You’re actually saving it?”

Seonghwa shot him a look. "What do you think? She’s my future wife… hopefully."

Wooyoung gasped in dramatic disbelief. “No way! Are you serious?” He burst into laughter, holding his stomach. “That’s the ultimate flex, Seonghwa. You’ve officially entered the 'power couple' territory. Are you going to print out that picture and hang it in your office next?”

Seonghwa, leaning back in his chair, tried to keep a straight face, but there was an amused glint in his eyes. “You should be thanking me. You’re getting free entertainment for the day.”

Wooyoung snorted, still chuckling. “I’m starting to think this might not just be business anymore. Maybe the CEO Park I know is finally catching feelings.”

Seonghwa shot him a smirk. "Or maybe you're just reading too much into it, Wooyoung. It's just a picture, and I’m just... appreciating the good press."

Wooyoung shook his head, clearly not buying it. "I think you’re doing a little more than appreciating the press, but hey, I’m not judging. At least you’re consistent, man." He gave Seonghwa a knowing wink before heading to the door. “You just wait. The media's going to have a field day with you two soon.”

Seonghwa didn't respond right away, still staring at the picture on his screen. The phone buzzed, and his heart skipped a beat when he saw a message from you flash across the screen.

"Let’s keep it professional for now, CEO Park."

He smiled to himself before typing a quick reply, “Always.”

Wooyoung had a point, though. Whether he liked it or not, things between him and you were no longer just about business; honestly, it never really was. But that didn't mean he'd make any rash moves. For now, he was content to let the media do their thing. After all, they had no idea just how complicated things truly were.

But the smile that tugged at the corners of his lips told a different story.

---

The sunlight pierced through the curtains, gently waking you from a deep slumber. You groggily opened your eyes, the remnants of sleep clouding your mind. As you stretched beneath the covers, a vague memory clung to you, lingering like a faint echo. Something… someone had been on your mind in the night. The confusion immediately hit you, and you rubbed your temples as if to shake the feeling away.

But the lingering sensations—those weren’t just in your head. They were visceral.

Your breath hitched slightly as the fragments of a dream started to piece together. The image of Seonghwa, naked, his hands on you, his lips brushing against yours in a way that was both tender and desperate. The way his body pressed against yours, his warmth enveloping you. You could almost feel it now, the rush of heat in your veins, the dizzying effect of his touch, the sense of his presence so close to yours...

You groaned, feeling the unmistakable heat rising in your body. You didn’t want to admit it, but the dream had been... real. Far too real for comfort as you felt your panties sticking to your folds.

You quickly sat up, throwing the blankets off your legs and rubbing your face with both hands, trying to clear your mind. "Get a grip," you muttered to yourself, voice strained. But no matter how hard you tried, the images from the dream wouldn’t fade. The sensation of his lips, the sound of his voice close to your ear, the way he had made you feel... everything still felt too vivid.

You cursed under your breath, moving quickly to your bathroom, trying to steady your racing thoughts. Your pulse was erratic, and you couldn’t tell whether it was from the lingering effects of the dream or from the anxiety of it all.

You splashed water on your face, hoping the coolness would wake you up properly. But the truth settled in like a heavy weight on your chest—you couldn't just shake it off. You couldn't ignore the pull Seonghwa had on you, no matter how much you resented it.

But why now? Why this dream? It was too much, too soon. You had barely begun to process the complexities of your situation—your possible engagement, your strained relationship with him, the pressure from your families, everything. You weren’t supposed to be thinking about him this way. You weren’t supposed to feel this… confused.

Taking a deep breath, you looked at your reflection in the mirror, trying to steady yourself. "Get it together, Y/N," you whispered, almost as if trying to convince yourself. But in the pit of your stomach, a flicker of warmth still burned, and you hated that it felt so real.

As you finished getting ready for the day, you couldn’t shake the feeling that something had changed. You couldn’t ignore the way your body still hummed with the remnants of the dream. And the fact that you had wanted him, even in that dream… Well, that made things even more complicated than before.

You made your way downstairs, still feeling the effects of the wet dream that had stirred something inside you earlier. Your body still hummed with a mix of confusion and desire, and you tried to push the thoughts out of your mind as you entered the dining room.

But as soon as you stepped in, you froze.

There, sitting at the table like it was the most natural thing in the world, was Seonghwa. He was casually sipping his coffee, and the way he licked his lips after taking a slow sip had your pulse racing immediately. It was a simple, almost unconscious movement, but in your current state, it was enough to send a ripple of heat through your body.

You tried to keep your expression neutral, but it was hard to ignore the flood of memories from the dream that came rushing back. The image of his lips, so close and yet so far, felt too real. Your mouth went dry as you blinked rapidly, trying to shake the lingering thoughts.

"Good morning, Y/N," your father greeted you warmly, though it did little to ease the discomfort settling in your stomach. "We’re having a light breakfast before we head out for the day. Seonghwa’s joining us for a meeting, so we thought we’d talk over breakfast."

Your brother, Hongjoong, flashed you a playful grin from across the table. "Nothing to worry about, though. It’s all business today."

You nodded absently, trying to focus on the mundane, but your gaze flickered back to Seonghwa. He was still drinking his coffee, completely unaware of the effect he was having on you. Or maybe he wasn’t—maybe he knew, and he was enjoying the power he had over your thoughts. His eyes met yours for a brief moment, and for a split second, it felt like everything else faded away.

You turned away quickly, moving to the counter to pour yourself some coffee, hoping to regain some composure.

Seonghwa cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "It’s a busy day ahead," he said calmly, his voice smooth, just like it always was. "Hongjoong and I have a meeting with an investor soon."

Your heart skipped a beat at the mention of his name. "I see," you replied, forcing yourself to focus on something—anything—other than him. But his presence was overwhelming and every small movement he made seemed to draw your attention like a magnet.

You felt Hongjoong's eyes on you, noticing the way you stiffened. "You alright, Y/N?" he asked, his tone teasing, but there was concern in his voice. "You seem distracted."

You quickly recovered. "Yeah, just tired," you said, avoiding his gaze. You could feel Seonghwa’s eyes on you again, but you refused to look up, even though the energy between you two was thick with something unspoken.

Your mother, oblivious to the undercurrent of tension, smiled warmly. "Well, it’s good to have everyone together this morning. Seonghwa, it’s been a while since we had breakfast with you."

Seonghwa simply smiled, his lips curving just enough to be polite but not enough to hide the playfulness in his eyes. "It’s nice to start the day with a meal like this." He glanced at you then, and there was something in the way his gaze lingered that made your breath catch in your throat.

You quickly grabbed your bag from the counter, desperate to escape the building tension. "I should head out soon," you said, not looking at anyone in particular. "Lots to do."

Seonghwa gave you a knowing look, the smallest hint of a smirk pulling at his lips as he leaned back in his chair. "I’m sure you’re busy," he said, voice smooth and quiet.

You barely held back the shiver that ran down your spine. Without another word, you turned on your heel and quickly made your way to the door, feeling his eyes follow you as you left.

-

You walked into your office, trying to shake off the tension from the morning. The elevator ride had felt like an eternity, every second of silence making your thoughts feel more overwhelming. But as soon as you entered your office, the sight of Yeri sitting on your desk made you pause.

She was grinning mischievously, a cup of coffee in hand, clearly waiting for you. "Good morning, sleepyhead," she teased, her voice high and full of energy. "I thought you'd be late after your little... 'adventure' this past week."

You froze for a moment, caught off guard. Then, the memory of Yeosang's birthday party flashed before your eyes—the balcony, the almost-kiss, the strange, unexpected pull toward Seonghwa. Your face heated up, and before you could stop yourself, everything came rushing out.

"I had a dream about him, Yeri. A wet dream," you blurted, hands shaking as you quickly closed the door behind you. "About Seonghwa."

Yeri’s eyes widened, her coffee cup freezing halfway to her mouth. "Wait, what? You what?" she gasped, her voice rising in excitement. "Tell me everything."

You rubbed your temples, feeling the familiar flush creeping up your neck. You had no idea why you were telling her this, but it was like the floodgates had opened, and now everything was spilling out. "I don’t even know how it happened, but I woke up all… hot and bothered." You groaned, sinking into your chair, unable to stop yourself. "And now all I can think about is him. His lips. His touch. Everything. And he joined my family for breakfast today and I just… ugh, I don’t know!"

Yeri’s eyes sparkled with amusement. She set her coffee down on the desk and slid over to the chair next to you. "Oh my god," she muttered, trying to hold back her laughter. "You’ve got it bad, huh? I mean, really bad."

"I don’t know what’s happening," you admitted, feeling a mix of frustration and embarrassment. "It’s so confusing. I’ve hated him for years, but now? After all this time? I just…" You trailed off, burying your face in your hands. "I can’t stop thinking about kissing him, Yeri."

At that, Yeri burst out laughing, her voice echoing around the room. She couldn’t help herself, her playful teasing turning into full-blown amusement. "Oh my god, you want to kiss him? The same Seonghwa who you’ve been at odds with for ages?!" She was practically squealing with excitement. "This is so much better than I ever expected! The CEO tension is real! I mean, he’s already been in your pants before too."

You groaned, hiding your face behind your hands. "I don’t even know what to do with myself. It’s like I want to strangle him and kiss him at the same time. And every time I see him, I get this strange pull—like something’s drawing me to him."

Yeri leaned in closer, eyes gleaming with mischief. "Well, I think you know exactly what you want. Don’t tell me you’re going to keep playing this game of pretending you don’t feel anything." She raised an eyebrow. "Just give in already. He obviously wants you too."

You stared at her in disbelief. "Yeri, do you even know what you’re saying? We’re supposed to be engaged for business reasons, not because we like each other."

"Oh, please," she said, waving a hand dismissively. "Everyone knows there’s something more than business going on here. You and Seonghwa are playing a dangerous game. You’re already half in love with him. You had feelings for him before, I’m not surprised how easy it is for you this time."

Your heart skipped a beat at her words, and for a brief moment, you wondered if she was right. Could it be that simple? Could you really be falling for him despite everything?

Before you could reply, Yeri was already bouncing in her seat, practically vibrating with excitement. "You’re totally falling for him again! You just haven’t realized it yet."

You rolled your eyes, but the truth was, her words hit too close to home. The feeling in your chest wasn’t just confusion or attraction. It was something deeper, something you had been ignoring for too long.

"I don’t know, Yeri. This is all so messed up," you admitted, feeling your heart race at the thought of Seonghwa.

Yeri gave you a wink, clearly relishing the situation. "You’ve got this, Y/N. Just remember, if you need any advice, I’m your girl. We’ll make sure Seonghwa doesn’t get away."

You leaned back in your chair, still trying to sort through your feelings. “Yeah, I guess so,” you muttered, your mind already a swirl of conflicting emotions.

A notification on your phone went off and you quickly took a glance at it.

Seonghwa: Would you like to have dinner with me at my place tonight?

Your eyes widened a bit, and your heart skipped a beat. "Oh my god, Yeri, he just asked me to come over for dinner."

Yeri chuckled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "So you’ll be alone with him?"

"Actually, I’m not sure, since he lives with his parents too," you replied, typing your response to Seonghwa, your fingers trembling slightly as you tried to act cool.

You: With your parents?

Seonghwa replied almost instantly.

Seonghwa: I’m not sure if they would be joining us, but most likely they will. Depends on when they get back from their golf trip. Why? Would you rather be alone with me?

You could feel your cheeks heating up at the question. The implications of what he was suggesting didn’t escape you. Yeri leaned in, her smirk widening as she watched your face flush.

“Y/N, I swear. If you don’t go, I will personally drag you to his house myself,” Yeri teased, nudging you playfully.

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at your lips. "This is ridiculous. Why does he always have to make everything sound... so complicated?"

“Complicated?” Yeri leaned back, clearly enjoying your dilemma. "More like exciting, right?"

You groaned inwardly, but the more you thought about it, the more you realized how true it was. There was something undeniably exciting about the prospect of being alone with Seonghwa. After everything that had happened, the tension between you two was palpable. Your dream, the awkward moments at work, and now this dinner invitation... everything felt like it was building up to something.

Yeri’s voice broke through your thoughts. “Just text him already. I know you want to.”

You stared at the screen of your phone for a long moment, then, against your better judgment, you typed a reply.

You: I’m fine with that. I’ll see you tonight then.

You hit send, your breath catching as you realized you had just agreed to dinner with Seonghwa—alone, at his place.

Yeri was grinning ear to ear. “There we go. This is going to be so interesting.”

Your heart thudded in your chest, a mixture of anticipation and nerves swirling inside you. What the hell was going to happen tonight?

-

The large dining room was warmly lit, the soft glow of chandeliers casting a gentle light over the table. The meal was simple but delicious—a homemade feast, rich in flavors and variety. Seonghwa sat at the head of the table, looking effortlessly composed as usual. His parents, both welcoming and kind, chatted with you like they had known you for years.

Seonghwa's mom, a woman with a calm and gentle demeanor, smiled at her son. "You really outdid yourself, Seonghwa," she said, her voice full of admiration. "This dinner is lovely."

You blinked in surprise, glancing between her and Seonghwa. "Wait, you cooked all of this?" you asked, unable to hide your disbelief.

Seonghwa shot you a subtle, almost shy smile. "I did. Not all of it cause I did not have much time, but I prepared most of the dishes," he replied, a proud glint in his eyes. "I’ve always liked to cook."

You couldn’t believe it. With all the resources and staff available to him, you had assumed the meal had been prepared by one of their chefs. But here he was, cooking for his family, and doing it with ease.

His dad, a tall man with a warm smile, chuckled beside you. "It’s true," he said, his voice full of pride. "Seonghwa prefers to do things himself. He even insisted on cleaning his own room when he was younger. Wouldn’t let the staff near it. Even today, he cleans his own room."

You raised an eyebrow, surprised. "Really? You clean your own room?" you asked, amused. Seonghwa simply shrugged, looking slightly embarrassed but not apologetic.

"Guess I’m a little... particular about how things are done," he said, his gaze briefly flickering to you. "I like to have control over the little things."

His mother laughed softly, shaking her head fondly. "He’s always been that way," she said. "Even now, if there’s something wrong in the house, he’ll be the one to fix it."

It was a side of Seonghwa you had never seen before. The CEO who exuded confidence and power, yet here he was, a man who took pride in doing his own work—whether it was cooking or keeping his personal space organized.

You couldn’t help but smile, feeling a little more at ease in this warm, homey environment. "I’m impressed," you admitted, lifting your glass of wine. "I had no idea you were like this. Hongjoong has never said a word to me."

Seonghwa’s smile softened, and for a moment, he looked less like a CEO and more like someone who was simply enjoying the company of his family and friends. "I try to keep things balanced," he said quietly, meeting your gaze for a moment before turning back to his parents. "I think it helps me stay grounded."

The rest of dinner continued with light-hearted conversation, and though you still felt the awkwardness between you and Seonghwa lingering, it slowly began to dissipate. His parents were warm and engaging, and Seonghwa, despite his usual guarded demeanor, seemed comfortable, as though he truly enjoyed the time spent with his family and you.

As the meal came to an end, Seonghwa’s mother insisted on serving dessert that their chef was currently preparing, and you couldn’t help but feel grateful for the hospitality. "Thank you for having me over," you said to Seonghwa’s parents, your voice sincere. "This has been really nice."

Seonghwa's mother smiled softly, setting down her wine glass as she looked over at you. "We’re always so happy to have you. Also, would you like to see the library until dessert arrives? It’s one of my favorite places in the house," she said with a gentle tone. "It’s quite beautiful, and Seonghwa’s been wanting to show it to you."

You blinked in surprise, glancing at Seonghwa. His expression was unreadable, but his lips curled into a small, polite smile. "I’d be happy to show you," he said, standing up from the table, gesturing for you to follow.

Seonghwa’s mom beamed, clearly pleased. "I’m sure you’ll love it," she added, her eyes twinkling. "Take your time."

You nodded and followed Seonghwa, leaving the dining room behind. The warmth of the house, the pleasant scent of the meal still lingering in the air, gave everything a homely feel. As you walked down the hallway, you couldn’t help but admire the house’s interior—elegantly furnished, with an air of comfort and sophistication.

You arrived at a grand set of double doors at the end of the hallway. Seonghwa pushed them open, revealing a large, quiet space. The library was nothing short of spectacular when he switched the lights on.

It was a room filled with towering bookshelves, each one neatly organized and brimming with books of all kinds. Soft, dim golden light spilled from the chandeliers overhead, creating a peaceful, inviting atmosphere. You could see why his mother loved it here—it was a perfect blend of elegance and tranquility.

"This is beautiful," you said, stepping into the room, your voice softer now as you took in the surroundings. The scent of old books mixed with the faintest hint of polished wood, and the sheer size of the library was awe-inspiring.

Seonghwa gave a small nod, his eyes scanning the room before settling back on you. "It’s my mom’s favorite place. She spends a lot of time here when she wants to relax," he explained, his voice calm, almost wistful.

You ran your fingers along the spines of the books as you walked past them, feeling the weight of history in each one. "Do you spend much time here, too?" you asked, glancing back at Seonghwa.

He paused for a moment before nodding, his expression thoughtful. "I used to, when I had more time. But lately, it’s been harder to find the time to sit and read for hours." He walked over to a section of the room, gesturing for you to follow. "I come in here when I need to clear my head. It’s quiet and I like the dim lights."

As you followed him, you noticed a few family photos scattered around the room on small tables—pictures of Seonghwa as a child, with his parents, and some even with his friends. It was strange seeing him in such a different light, outside the role of the CEO or the enigmatic, aloof businessman you were used to.

"You’ve got a lot of history here," you remarked, turning to him as you looked at one of the photos. "It’s nice."

Seonghwa’s gaze lingered on the photo for a moment before he turned back to you, his expression softening slightly. "It is," he agreed quietly. "My parents have always valued family... even in the midst of everything else."

You nodded, feeling the weight of his words. There was a vulnerability in his voice that you hadn’t heard before, a side of him that was far from the powerful CEO. It made you see him in a new light, one that made everything between you feel even more complicated.

"You can take a look around," Seonghwa said, breaking the silence. "There’s no rush."

You smiled, appreciating his hospitality, and began to wander further into the library. It felt like a space where time slowed down, where the outside world couldn’t touch you. As you moved along the shelves, you spotted a beautiful leather-bound collection of books on medical technology and advancements, which caught your attention.

“Is this yours?” you asked, and he nodded. "I didn’t know you were into this," you said, pulling one of the books out and flipping through it. "I figured you were more into business."

Seonghwa chuckled softly, walking over to stand beside you. "I’m interested in a lot of things. Medical technology has always fascinated me—especially with the work we do at Byeol Materials. I think it’s important to understand the field, even if it’s not my main focus."

You glanced up at him, surprised by the depth of his knowledge and interest. There was so much more to him than you had originally thought.

"It’s rare to find someone who has such a broad perspective," you said, your voice a little softer now. "Most people focus only on their own lane."

He met your gaze, his expression slightly more open. "I believe in understanding as much as I can," he said quietly. "The more you know, the more you can contribute."

You both stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the connection between you growing stronger, yet still laced with an undercurrent of tension that neither of you had fully addressed.

You wandered through the library, your fingers gliding along the spines of the books. The smell of aged paper mixed with wood polish filled the air, creating an intoxicating atmosphere. The room was beautiful, but your focus wavered, your mind still replaying the dinner conversation and the glances Seonghwa had been throwing your way all evening.

One book title caught your eye on the top shelf, its gold lettering glinting softly in the dim light. You stood on your tiptoes, reaching for it, but it was just out of your grasp. Frustrated, you stretched further, only to feel a presence behind you—warm, solid, and far too close.

“Need some help?” Seonghwa’s deep voice murmured against your ear, sending a shiver down your spine.

You didn’t turn right away, your breath hitching as his scent enveloped you. Slowly, you looked over your shoulder to see him towering behind you, his arm reaching past you to effortlessly grab the book. His other hand came to rest on the shelf beside your head, caging you in.

“Seems like you’re always in situations where you need saving,” he teased, his voice low and dripping with amusement.

You turned fully, your body brushing against his, your chin tilting up to meet his gaze. “I didn’t ask for your help, but I’ll take it,” you replied, your tone laced with challenge.

His lips curved into a faint smirk as he handed you the book, but you didn’t take it right away. Instead, you let your fingers brush deliberately against his, holding his gaze, which had darkened with something unspoken.

“You know,” you said, your voice soft but daring, “I’m starting to think you enjoy being the hero.”

Seonghwa tilted his head slightly, his smirk deepening. “Maybe I just enjoy you being in situations where I can step in.”

Your heart raced, the tension between you thick and electric. You could feel the heat radiating off him, the intensity of his stare pinning you in place. Boldness surged through you, fueled by the charged atmosphere and the heat you felt in your pants. You reached up, placing your hand lightly on his chest, your fingers grazing the fabric of his loose black t-shirt.

“Always so sure of yourself,” you murmured, your voice dropping as you leaned in just a fraction, enough to feel the whisper of his breath on your skin. “It’s almost unfair.”

He inhaled sharply, his gaze flicking to your lips before locking onto your eyes. “Careful, Y/N,” he said, his voice tight, controlled, but laced with something dangerous. “You’re playing with fire.”

“Maybe I like the heat,” you countered, your fingers curling slightly into his shirt.

For a moment, he didn’t move, his eyes searching yours as if he were debating something. Then, he lowered his head, bringing his lips achingly close to yours, but not quite touching. “You really want to do this?” he asked, his voice a husky whisper. “It will only get hotter from here.”

You tilted your head, your lips barely grazing his, your voice dropping to a provocative whisper. “I do,” you said, letting the challenge linger in the charged air between you. Your hand moved down his chest, the heat of his body seeping through the thin fabric of his shirt, until it hovered near the waistband of his pants.

Before you could take it further, Seonghwa’s larger hand caught yours, his grip firm but electrifying. In a swift motion, he laced his fingers with yours and pinned your hand against the bookshelf, his body pressing into yours as the tension finally snapped. Without hesitation, his lips crashed against yours, a blend of frustration and unrestrained desire pouring into the kiss.

The book you had been holding slipped from your other hand, hitting the floor with a dull thud, but you didn’t care. Your free hand snaked around his neck, fingers tangling in the soft strands of his hair as you pulled him closer. He responded with equal intensity, his free arm wrapping around your waist to press you firmly against the shelves, as if he couldn’t bear even a fraction of space between you.

The kiss deepened, a heady mix of heat and urgency, leaving no room for hesitation or second-guessing. His lips moved against yours with a confidence that made your knees weak, and when he bit down gently on your lower lip, a quiet gasp escaped you, making him smirk against your mouth.

Breaking the kiss just enough to look at you, his breath came in short, shallow bursts, his dark eyes locked onto yours. “You’re dangerous,” he murmured, his voice rough and dripping with raw emotion. “Do you even realize what you’re doing to me?”

Your chest heaved as you tried to steady your breathing, but the wicked grin on your lips betrayed your confidence. “I think I have an idea,” you replied, your voice teasing but breathless.

His gaze flicked to your lips once more, and for a second, you thought he might lose himself all over again. But then, as if some shred of restraint returned, he let out a frustrated sigh and leaned his forehead against yours.

“Y/N,” he started, his tone a mix of warning and longing, “fuck… if we don’t stop now, I won’t be able to.”

Your hand tightened around his neck, your lips brushing against his in a whisper of a kiss. “I don’t want to stop.” For a moment, the world stood still as he processed your words, his restraint hanging by a thread. Then, with a low growl that sent shivers down your spine, Seonghwa closed the gap between you again, his lips capturing yours in a kiss that was hungrier, hotter, and more desperate than before.

His hand trailed up your back, pulling you impossibly closer, while his other hand slid along your jawline, tilting your face to deepen the kiss. You responded with equal fervor, your fingers threading through his hair and tugging just enough to earn a low, guttural sound from him that made your stomach flip.

His lips left yours only to trail down your jaw and to your neck, leaving a searing path of heat in their wake. Your head tilted back instinctively, giving him better access as your breath hitched, a soft moan escaping your lips when he gently sucked on your skin, being careful to not leave a mark. Every kiss, every touch was filled with the unspoken tension that had built up over years, threatening to consume you both.

His hands gripped your hips, anchoring you against him, and you could feel his clothed hard dick press against your stomach. A sharp vibration broke through the haze, causing Seonghwa to groan against your skin. The spell shattered as his phone buzzed insistently in his pocket.

“Are you fucking kidding me right now?” he muttered under his breath, pressing his forehead to your shoulder for a brief second before fishing out his phone with one hand, while the other cupped your cheek, thumb gently rubbing your skin. He glanced at the screen, his jaw tightening when he saw the caller ID.

“Wooyoung… this better be good,” he answered the call, his voice low and rough, a mix of frustration and obligation. As he listened to his secretary, you couldn’t help but admire the sight of him—slightly disheveled hair, lips swollen from your kisses, his entire demeanor still radiating heat even as he handled business. It was a stark reminder of the duality he carried so effortlessly, and it made your heart race all over again.

“Okay, I’ll handle it in a bit, Woo,” he said curtly before hanging up, his gaze snapping back to you. For a moment, neither of you spoke, the weight of what had just happened—and what had been interrupted—hanging heavily in the air.

“I’m sorry,” he finally said, his voice softer now, tinged with regret. “That couldn’t wait.”

You shook your head, a small smile tugging at your lips despite the lingering tension. “It’s okay. Duty calls.”

His eyes lingered on you, conflicted but undeniably drawn. “This isn’t over,” he said, placing a soft kiss on your lips, his voice carrying a promise that sent a thrill through you.

“I’ll hold you to that,” you replied, your tone teasing but your heart hammering in your chest.

With that, he slipped his phone back into his pocket, straightening his shirt as he composed himself. “Let’s go before something else derails us.”

You nodded, following him out of the library, but the charged atmosphere between you remained. The walk back to the dining room was thick with tension. Neither of you said a word, but every glance, every brush of his hand against yours as you walked, felt loaded with unspoken words. The air was charged, your body still humming from the encounter in the library, and you couldn’t help but replay every moment in your mind.

When you entered the dining room, Seonghwa’s parents were still seated, chatting softly over dessert and wine. His mother’s eyes lit up as she saw the two of you, and she smiled warmly. “There you two are! I was beginning to think you’d gotten lost among the shelves.”

“Not at all,” Seonghwa replied smoothly, his voice back to its composed, professional tone. “I was just showing Y/N around. We got caught up in a few interesting finds.”

You nodded, managing a polite smile despite the fluttering in your chest. “Your library is incredible, Mrs. Park. I could spend days in there.”

Her smile widened with pride. “I’m so glad you think so. It’s always been my sanctuary, and I’m thrilled you enjoyed it.”

Seonghwa’s father leaned back in his chair, regarding the two of you with a curious glint in his eye. “It’s good to see you two getting along,” he said, his tone casual but carrying an undertone that made your cheeks flush. “It’ll make working together easier, I’m sure.”

Seonghwa cleared his throat subtly, stepping closer to you and resting a hand lightly on the back of your chair as he pulled it out for you to sit. The simple gesture felt protective, and you found yourself glancing up at him, only to meet his gaze for a fleeting moment before he turned to take his own seat, the glances noticed by his parents.

The conversation at the table shifted to business matters, with Mr. Park asking about Aurum Medical Technologies’ latest developments. You answered confidently, explaining your plans for expanding production and introducing new products to meet growing demand. The steady rhythm of professional talk helped calm your racing thoughts, though every now and then, you’d catch Seonghwa watching you, his gaze thoughtful and intense.

When dessert was finished, Mrs. Park rose from her seat. “I think this has been a lovely evening,” she said warmly. “Y/N, it was such a pleasure having you here. I do hope we’ll see more of you.”

“I’d like that,” you replied sincerely, standing to shake her hand. She surprised you by pulling you into a gentle hug instead, her affection catching you off guard but leaving you with a sense of comfort.

After saying your goodbyes, Seonghwa walked you to your car. The evening air seemed to thicken around you, amplifying the tension that had been simmering all night. Seonghwa stood close, his hands resting casually in his pockets, but his eyes betrayed something far less composed—a storm of emotions swirling just beneath the surface.

“Thanks for coming tonight,” he said softly, his voice low and sincere.

“Thanks for inviting me,” you replied, matching his tone. “Your parents are wonderful, and the dinner was... unexpectedly pleasant.”

His lips quirked into a faint smirk, and he stepped closer. “Unexpectedly pleasant? Should I be offended?”

You rolled your eyes, but a smile tugged at your lips. “Let’s just say you have a knack for catching me off guard.”

“Good,” he murmured, his voice dipping lower. “I like keeping you on your toes.”

Before you could respond, Seonghwa reached out, his fingers brushing a stray strand of hair from your face. The touch was light, almost tentative, but the intensity in his gaze was anything but. Your breath hitched as he leaned in, his movements slow, deliberate—giving you every chance to pull away.

But you didn’t.

Your back pressed against the cool surface of your car as Seonghwa closed the distance between you, his hand sliding to cup your cheek. His lips found yours in a kiss that started soft but quickly deepened, his other hand bracing against the car door to trap you in place. Your hands instinctively moved to his chest, gripping the fabric of his shirt as you melted into him, your heart racing with a mix of excitement and longing.

The kiss was intoxicating, every brush of his lips against yours igniting a fire that burned through every coherent thought in your mind. When he finally pulled back, both of you were breathing heavily, your faces just inches apart.

“Drive safe,” he said, his voice rough, his lips curling into a faint smirk that made your knees weak.

You swallowed hard, trying to steady your breathing as you nodded.

His fingers lingered against your cheek for a moment longer before he stepped back, allowing you to open your car door. As you slid into the driver’s seat and started the engine, you couldn’t resist glancing at him one last time. He was still standing there, his hands in his pockets, watching you with an intensity that made your pulse race all over again.

As you drove away, the taste of him still lingering on your lips, one thought consumed your mind: you were in deep, and there was no turning back now.

Once your car was no longer in his view, Seonghwa headed back inside his family mansion, closing the front door behind him, running a hand through his hair as he exhaled. The kiss had left him exhilarated and on edge, his mind replaying the moment over and over. He turned toward the living room, only to freeze in his tracks at the sight of his parents seated on the couch, identical smirks plastered across their faces.

“Well, that looked... passionate,” his father remarked, folding his arms and leaning back against the couch.

Seonghwa groaned, his hand dragging down his face. “You were watching?”

His mother let out a soft laugh, her eyes twinkling with amusement. “Not intentionally, dear. But you were right outside the window, and, well... it was hard to miss with a window this large.”

Seonghwa felt his ears heat up, and he turned away slightly, muttering, “It wasn’t... I mean, it’s not what it looked like?” his own words felt like a question because he didn’t know what to say.

His father raised a skeptical brow. “Really? Because it looked like you just kissed the woman you’ve been pretending not to care about.”

“Dad,” Seonghwa warned, though his tone lacked bite. He sank into the armchair across from them, rubbing the back of his neck. “Okay, fine… I like her. A lot. But I don’t know if she feels the same way.”

His mother’s expression softened instantly, and she leaned forward, resting her hand on his knee. “Seonghwa, I’ve seen the way she looks at you. There’s no way she doesn’t feel something.”

“Mom, you don’t know that,” he said quietly, his usual confidence faltering. “I hurt her multiple times before. I don’t even know if she’s forgiven me completely. We… never really spoke about the past.”

His mother shook her head, a gentle smile gracing her lips. “Trust me, Seonghwa. A woman doesn’t look at a man the way she looks at you unless she feels something deep. And Y/N is wonderful—strong, kind, and intelligent. You’d be a fool not to give this a real chance.”

His father chimed in with a nod. “She’s got a sharp mind, that one. Definitely someone who can keep up with you, maybe even outmatch you.” He grinned, clearly enjoying teasing his son. “You’d better not mess this up again.”

Seonghwa couldn’t help but smile despite himself. “Thanks for the vote of confidence, Dad.”

His mother gave his hand a reassuring squeeze. “Just be honest with her, Seonghwa. Show her how much you care. If she’s the right one, and I know she is, it’ll work out.”

Seonghwa sat back, his thoughts drifting to you—your laugh, the spark in your eyes when you teased him, and the softness in your gaze when you thought he wasn’t looking. Maybe his mother was right. Maybe there was more between you than he dared to hope for.

“I hope you’re right,” he murmured, more to himself than anyone else. But deep down, a part of him was already planning how he could win your heart completely.

End of Part Two.