#back on my squid game bullshit

[wowifinallymadeanaccount]

The cast of squid game is so hot I'm literally about to break this table I'M LITERALLY-

[grey-joys]

My knowledge of Howland Reed is limited but my love for him is infinite

[bruhstories]

Bet V

p.1 here & p2. here & p.3 here & p.4 here

mandatory mdni. you were not tagged in this because you are not over 18.

summary: in his attempt to break you, in-ho breaks himself pairing: hwang in-ho/the front man x civilian!reader warnings & content: age gap, masturbation, voyeurism, afab!reader, slightly detailed descriptions of reader’s background for plot purposes, red text for in-ho, purple for reader, pre 33rd squid game, canon divergent, veeeery slow burn, reader’s dad is dead w/c: 2k

a/n: this is my half-assed attempt at writing a game lol. if you would like to be tagged for the next part, please check this post! thank you for reading! please remember that if you asked to be tagged but i can’t find your age on your blog, you will NOT be tagged. there will be smut and people dying lol.

Neolttwigi had been another success. The seesaw game eliminated 91 people, and with 97 remaining players, In-ho proceeded with tuho. He paid close attention to the masked soldiers who directed the survivors to the same place where they had previously played Red Light, Green Light, only the floor was divided by a bright blue line in the middle. The ceiling was open, letting players experience natural light for a second time in a row.

The game was awfully simple —  throwing arrows into the neck of a jar. In-ho remembered reading about that game in school, how it was played by royal families and the upper class before becoming a game for everyone, and the jar had a narrow neck, making it easy to miss the mark. He had rarely played it as a child, preferring juldarigi or squid, games he taught his younger brother.

It became a habit for him to check the cameras in his penthouse whenever you were there. It brought him a strange peace of mind knowing that Eunjoo was safe in your hands, but he couldn't, for the life of him, stop looking at the selfie you sent the day before. In-ho knew that walking into a lamppost was bullshit, but he didn't want to pressure you into telling him the truth. He needed you to trust him, to tell him willingly. 

Still, he examined the picture —  your cheek in particular — and concluded that you lied to him. In-ho took it as a triumph. He didn't win the bet just yet, there was still time for you to mess up, but the fact that you chose to not tell the truth only solidified his belief that you were the same as everyone else. In four days he would return to Seoul and win. The prize? He wasn’t sure. Perhaps just the satisfaction that he was above you.

Players entered the field, and the voice in the speaker instructed them to split into teams of two in less than thirty minutes, which was unfair to player 002, since there was an odd number of people. 002 was taken away by a guard, and the remaining 96 players grouped into pairs. While the objective was indeed simple — throw the arrows in the jar — it came with a twist. It always did. Each player was given four arrows, but one of them was blindfolded and threw the arrows while their teammate picked the jar up and tried to catch the arrow in it. Once all four arrows were thrown, the teammates switched places. If at least six out of eight arrows hit the mark, both players passed, but if one player threw four arrows and the other only two, they both died. 

The game took out fewer people than In-ho had hoped — 19 to be precise. Player 002 was alive and well, and the remaining 77 survivors returned to their chamber, where more and more beds had been removed, exposing the remaining three games on the walls — Hide and Seek, Yutnori and Ssireum. He remembered his time as a player, how he was the only one who paid attention to his surroundings and anticipated the following games. In-ho used all of his skills and knowledge as a detective and emerged as the sole survivor and winner. Did it bring his wife back? No, but it did make him feel so good when proved he earned his right to live.

Players were receiving less and less food, and from the comfort and safety of the control room, In-ho watched them slowly lose all traces of their humanity. He wondered how you would've performed in the games. Participants would have abused your kindness, and your good intentions would've gotten you killed. To make it worse, he was certain you would've sacrificed yourself to save someone else, someone you deemed worthy of winning. But in his eyes, only you deserved to live.

His phone vibrated in his pocket, and In-ho took it out to read the text from you. He knew it had to be you. Who else would text him at that time?

Hellooo, I took a look in the fridge and noticed the eggs and milk will go bad before you come back. I was wondering if I could give it to someone who needs it.

Damn it, you did it again. In-ho couldn't be sure that you actually gave the food to someone else — he had to take your word for it for now.

Of course. May I ask who you're giving it to?

Remember the family I told you about? The one I teach Korean to? The wife is pregnant and can't work. I think she's due to give birth soon, actually, and they could use all the help. Besides, it would be a shame to throw away perfectly good food :)

Don't you want it, miss? When we first met, you told me you didn't have a good financial situation.

Oh, no, no. I'll be fine. They need it more.

Very well, please give it to them.

Ah, I also remembered you left some money on your nightstand. With all due respect, Mr. Hwang, that's very irresponsible. Anyone could take it.

Were you lecturing him? Him? Cute. In-ho even chuckled at your reprimand, finding it adorably amusing. If only you knew the things he did, the people he killed. How would you react? That question was beginning to take over his mind like a maggot wriggling inside of his brain. Would you be disgusted? Would you go to the police? Would you agree with his ways of cleaning the world of its impurities? It was no different than how you cleaned his penthouse — you both got rid of trash.

You're right, miss. There is a safe hidden in my wardrobe. Please put the money there. The code is 1321.

Surely you would crack at the sight of so much money and try to take some. No one sane would miss such an opportunity. But then again, maybe you weren't sane. Maybe you just needed a little push, a little encouragement. In-ho poured himself a glass of whisky and thought about the wound on your cheek, and the night you were crying on his kitchen floor. Someone had hurt you, and he needed to find out who so he could exploit that. And then, you would break. 

He was, however, slightly conflicted, because he didn’t want to ruin you. In-ho merely wanted to make you see things eye to eye. Just like him, life had been unfair to you. And just like him, you needed to survive. Kindness wouldn't take you very far — you had to witness the cruelty of the world somehow, and the only possible way to do that was to play the game and survive it, something In-ho knew you would never do due to your values and morals. And he couldn't wait one more year to push you past your limits. He needed to think of something else, and he needed to do it fast — time was ticking and you were a project he refused to let slip through his fingers.

In-ho checked the cameras at the time you normally arrived at the penthouse, patiently waiting for you. He was pleased to see that you were in a better mood, cheerfully greeting Eunjoo as you went about with your tasks, but something was different. You appeared to be texting someone, and he never received any notifications on his phone, yet you were quite busy chatting back and forth. His stomach churned, an amalgamation of feelings bubbling and boiling in his core. Anxiety? Anger? Jealousy? 

Jealousy.

You always sent him a text upon your arrival. You always let him know that you were there, so who occupied your mind if not him? The sudden lack of the very little control he had over you made him trip in his room and lose balance, and he forcefully ripped the mask off and tossed it on the floor. 

In-ho was losing the bet he made with himself, and not in the way he had imagined.

It wasn't him who lived in your mind, but you who invaded his, and it infuriated him, because after his wife died, he refused to get attached, refused to fall in love. Luckily for him, it wasn't love that he felt for you, but an unhealthy obsession to watch you, to know your every move, to find out who hurt you and make you hurt them back. 

You performed your tasks with utmost perfection, and placed the money in his safe while ignoring the riches inside it, but you were distracted, constantly looking at your phone and half-smiling whenever it lit up. In-ho couldn't have that. 

How's Eunjoo?

Since you were so busy talking to someone, he expected you to frown at his text, to scoff and ignore it. But you did worse. You stopped folding his clothes and sat on the edge of his bed, beaming at the message on the screen.

She's alright! We had dinner and a cuddle, and now she's playing next to me. I'll send you a picture!

In-ho watched you struggle to take a photo of the cat — each time you took out your phone, Eunjoo stopped playing, so you swapped to the front camera, trying to sneak a picture. You even smoothed your hair and made yourself look presentable, and he found it quite adorable that you tried to look presentable for him.

I'm sorry you have to see my face, but she wouldn't sit still for a photo!

You were stunning. It was all In-ho could think about when he opened the photo. Your bright eyes were like a drug to him, instantly hooking him, forcing him to regain a shred of humanity.

Don't apologise, miss. You're beautiful.

There it was, the crack he so desperately sought for. You were practically hyperventilating in his bedroom, struggling to breathe, constantly rereading the words on your phone. And then he heard you talk to Eunjoo, heard you question your own sanity. But no, In-ho didn't like you. He was simply interested in breaking you, oblivious to how you were breaking him.

"Damn it. I promised Donghyun I'd go for a coffee after work tomorrow. I'm so confused now." Your distorted voice crackled through his speaker, and In-ho clenched his jaw, barely stopping himself from breaking his phone.

Who the fuck was Donghyun? And more importantly, why did he care? 

He didn't care, or at least that was what he told himself for the past few days. He didn't care. He didn't give a shit about you. He didn't-

The familiar words of Frank Sinatra's Fly Me To The Moon stopped him dead in his tracks. In-ho turned the volume up, still in disbelief that you knew the song, that you sung it in his bedroom like no one was watching you. It was impossible how similar you were to him, to how he was before life took a turn. But a song and a kind heart weren't enough to change him. It was far too late for that. The only possible outcome was for you to become like him, and he wouldn't accept anything else.

For the first time, In-ho didn't offer you privacy when you stepped into his bathroom. For the first time, he watched as you peeled off each layer of clothing, and for the first time, he saw every scar and scratch, every burn and bruise on your body, new and old, and he understood. You had already faced the realities of this cruel world, and you chose not to become vengeful. Your father died, your uncle abused you, and yet, you shined.

The unforeseen urge to protect you seeped through his veins, but not before you got your revenge. You deserved to get revenge more than anyone in the world. And if you didn't want that, he'd make you want it one way or another.

"Fuck." In-ho whispered when his cock twitched in his trousers at the sight of your bare body. So vulnerable. So weak. So perfect. 

He sat down, phone in one hand and his eyes only on you. It was pure instinct when he fisted his cock, pure instinct when your name spilled from his lips, pure instinct when he imagined you under him, wriggling and writhing, pure instinct when he came on his fingers, disgusted with himself.

Pure instinct. Nothing more.

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[jynxpsiche]

always there for you

kang dae-ho (player 388) x fem!reader

🎐. summary: you already took part in the games with Gi-hun and survived that monstrosity. But even the strongest soldier has its weakness.

🎐. warnings: canon gore, squid game violence, no spoilers, swearing, fluff, female reader, no proofread. English isn’t my first language!

requests are open !!

You woke up in that shithole again.

You promised yourself to never ever put your foot back in there after the last time. You still didn’t know how you managed to survive last time.

In the game only Gi-hun and you were the only one left standing after an atrocious journey. Poor Sae-byeok, who at a certain point was injured, didn’t make it because killed by Sang-woo, who instead was found dead in the bathroom.

So the two of you were facing each other on the field of the last game, but neither of you decided to finish it, both voting to go home.

The prize money had been split between the two of you then everyone followed their path, but Gi-hun and you kept in touch.

He was obsessing with finding the recruiter and for the last two years he hired a group of men who would scour every inch of every subway line.

From the calls and video chats you both shared you undoubtedly noticed how his infinite search was draining him, both physically and mentally. He wasn’t taking care of himself properly.

Sometimes you went to his apartment and cooked something for him, hoping that some home cooked meal would have helped him a little, and even if he always vocalized his gratitude for your actions you knew that day by day he was losing himself completely.

An unhealthy obsession that was killing him slowly and painfully.

Luckily for him, you were there to help him grasp at that little sanity he had left.

“It must be annoying to look after someone like me”. He blurted these words once, a cigarette in one hand and a distant look on his face. He almost looked guilty and mad for disturbing you.

But he didn’t know that it was the least you could do. You couldn’t help him forget everything and live a happy and untraumatized life, but you could help by taking care of him.

He was the only one left for you, and you were for him.

And you cared so deeply for him that at a certain point you even decided to join his plan to finally find and confront the frontman.

The only difference was that it wasn’t in your plan to take part again in that murderous game. He knew that to obtain what he wanted he had to go deeper, but you weren’t ready.

Your eyes snapped wide open when you heard that familiar song. “God fucking dammit!” a few heads turned in your direction but you brushed them off.

The last thing you remembered was being in a fancy limo with Gi-hun and him talking with the frontman. Then black.

Now in that blue and white room again, on that nasty bed again that brought back so many memories but this time with different people, all too excited to win some cash.

When you looked down you notice that same outrageous outfit but a particular caught your eye.

003.

The same exact number.

Despite you scanned the room for that one familiar face you didn’t find him anywhere and that thought just made you paranoid.

It was impossible for him to not be where he exactly wanted to be? Maybe the frontman took him somewhere else? Where he could have been unable to fight back? Where he could have died without no one knowing?

That final realization hit you straight in the head and in an instant you stood up from your bed and tried to make your way through the other participants.

However, you had been stopped by a full body of guards walking in through the metallic door.

The square guard started with their usual speech, presenting the game and the rules, stressing every time his tone on how their rights and comforts were their main interest and always came first above everything else.

Merely bullshit.

You still hoped this was a fever dream or something like that.

But reality settled back in when you found yourself on that open field again and the colossal robot staring right back at you.

How you didn’t miss that place.

In the distance you spotted a slim figure running ahead the group, facing everybody.

It was Gi-hun.

“Gi-hun you son of a b—“

Alive.

Most of them managed to pass the game thanks to Gi-hun. 91 players were eliminated, 9.1 billions were now in the piggy bank.

And just that sum of money sent most of the players there out of their minds. And because of that the voting ended just as you expected.

By one vote the circle won and all of you were obliged to stay there and take part in another mortal game.

“These greedy people don’t even know what they got themselves into…” whispered through clenched teeth, your eyes thinned as you listlessly played with your food.

You reunited with Gi-hun and joined him and his best friend Jung-bae, now all seated on the stairs in a corner.

“I totally agree” a voice came from your right and when you lifted your gaze in front of you there was a broad man with half hair tied up and a gentle smile on his face.

His sudden appearance caught also the attention of the other two players, who simply stared up at him, distrust on Gi-hun’s face.

“I heard you during the first game! Everybody freeze!” The young man imitated your friend’s gestures with an excited spark in his eyes.

“And who are you?” Jung-bae asked while raising slowly from his seat, trying to flash him an intimating look and appear more manly.

He stared at him dumbfounded then regained his posture clearing his throat as a way to gain some kind of confidence.

His tone was a bit shaky but he tried to hide it in the best way possible “Kang Dae-ho. I was a former marine and I would like to join your team!” He beamed mainly, showing off his tattoo and then assuming a military position.

Jung-bae analyzed him closely and then not-so-casually rolled up his sleeve to show his own tattoo. Another former marine.

At that sight, Dae-ho stiffened his posture and saluted his fellow marine.

“I wasn’t expecting that…” you whispered to Gi-hun, who lowly snickered beside you.

However your words weren’t misheard by Jung-bae, who turned around towards you with an offended look on his face.

“And what do you mean by that?!” “Stop whining, you look like a big fussy baby…” you replied back nonchalantly and slowly massaging your temples.

Dae-ho stared at you silent, which was strange from him, and you took notice of that but did nothing about it.

He, on the other hand, thought he had not been caught red-handed, so he looked away clearing his throat, a light rosy veil framing his cheeks.

It was strange. He had always been an outgoing boy, a breath of fresh air, or so others had called him. A pure ball of energy and happiness, that's what he was.

A true golden retriever, ready to cheer up others and offer help when needed.

And now that he finally had a team he could trust he could help and feel useful so that they could all get out of that nightmare safely.

But when he looked at you, all the air in his lungs left him.

Sassy and witty, so confident and surely hot-tempered. What a woman.

Although he noticed the hard look on your face, your closed and reserved nature but not because of your personality, no, due to something else.

He sensed you had lived something traumatizing, just like him, but it was rude and vulnerable to show someone you just met minutes ago to show them said side of yourself.

He wouldn’t have done that either.

But he felt connected to you. He was attracted like a magnet and pulling away wasn’t an option for him.

Dae-ho wanted to be pulled, to be further attracted by you. Like a moth pulled by a flame.

He wasn’t scared to be burned but right now the lack of confidence was too pressing for him. He wanted to look his best for you and most importantly someone you could rely on. Even if it seemed you didn’t need one.

Although he noticed the way you deeply trusted Gi-hun and how unintentionally you counted on him. He was your anchor. Dae-ho didn't feel jealousy arose in him since he hyphotized you must have had a strong bond with him.

But he was craving that kind of affinity, to feel you so close even just spiritually, confessing him your dark past and your deepest fears. He wanted that. To be someone you could trust with all yourself.

And that opportunity came up. Unexpectedly.

The second game revealed itself to be not so intricate like many of you thought, but obviously with not a great team the minigames could have been a real pain.

Even if your team was already of five people, you decided to give up your place for a pregnant girl, probably your age, who desperately needed help and some kind of protection for her and her baby.

You couldn't have let her die in a place like that. For her and the baby's sake.

You were too good, you knew that, but fortunately you were also aware that a strange type of luck was by your side, due to you already surviving in a that place the last time you were there.

So you joined another team last minute. And you passed.

However, your team had been one of the first to play so when you succeeded you had to wait alone near your base for what felt like hours.

Groups of players were entering the dorms slowly filling the entire room, but there was still no sign of your group. Had Gi-hun and the others perhaps not made it? Gradually you heard the numbers of the players who had failed, but their numbers did not resonate within the cold walls of that glacial facility.

Maybe you were overreacting.

But you felt the tears blurring your vision and threatening to flow out.

You weren't ready to lose them. You knew to not create close relations in a place like this, but it was inevitable. It was the only way to push down an agonizing depression and an imminent madness.

Unoticed by you tears streaked your cheeks, creating deep furrows laden with repentance and sadness.

Dumbfounded you grazed your cheek with a trembling hand, your breath now harboured and often interrupted by soft sobs.

And then your ears made out the sound of the door opening for the last time.

You didn't want to look up, your heart wouldn't have withstood the blow. Soon after you heard his loud laugh.

Your head snapped up and tripping over yourself you managed to catch a glimpse of their figures, animated by fiery and excited spirits.

A breathy gasp left your lips and with tears still in your vision you jumped out from behind the beds and ran in their direction.

They still hadn't notice you but one by one Gi-hun and the others made out your approaching figure and swiftly got out of the way.

Dae-ho, although, hadn't spotted you and in a second he was engulfed into a bone-crushing hug, leaving him breathless.

Looking down he finally acknowledged your presence and warmth rushed to his cheeks when he saw your face buried into his chest and your devastated aspect.

A soft gaze possessed his features and warmheartedly he reciprocated the hug, gently cradling your head. You were still trembling and sobbing quietly so he gingerly shushed you by nestling your face into the crook of his neck.

You quieted down a bit, your sniffs and breath still hard and harboured, your grip strong on his shirt like you were scared he would disappear if you let go.

But he was there. Alive and safe.

"It's okay...I'm okay..." he reassured you calmly and reluctantly you backed up a little, meeting his tender eyes.

You shook your head, still not believing what you were seeing, “I’m sorry…I’m sorry” you repeated like a mantra and the poor guy in front of you didn’t understand.

“Why are you apologizing?” His tone was low and calm, one hand gently cupping your cheek and lovingly swiping away the tears, “you have done nothing…” you sniffed warily and nodded “I should have helped…somehow…I would have—“ you didn’t finish the phrase when another wave of tears and regret crushed your figure.

Dae-ho slightly chuckled and cupped your face tilting your head up to meet his warm gaze again. “Knowing you were safe and sound here gave me the strength to give my all…to come back…to you”.

You gazed at him agape, your mind blank and your heart tapping furiously against your chest. You felt warm and strangely…safe in his arms.

You didn’t know you could have felt such feelings into a place like this but it happened.

All thanks to him.

You leaned into his touch and closed your eyes, basking into his gentleness.

Your behavior didn’t go unnoticed by him whose heart immediately swelled at your action and a childish grin erupted into his face.

Without stopping cupping your face, he slowly and tentatively leaned in, half-lidded eyes observing your now calm expression.

You trusted him.

You found in him someone you could rely on.

Your foreheads connected and a shiver went down your spines at the contact.

“I’m here for you” he whispered lowly, his hot breath softly hitting your face “and you can count on me” he was there for you “remember that”.

He didn’t need to remind you.

You already knew that.

From the beginning.

[wcnderlnds]

the heart wants what it wants | choi su-bong (thanos)

・❥・ summary: he hates himself but you kinda, sorta love him. ・❥・word count: 1.3k ・❥・warnings: usual squid game stuff, swearing. ・❥・ authors note: as if i was gonna leave my boy thanos out of valentines fics. here's something a lil fluffy while still (hopefully) in character for him.

“What’re you sitting there looking like someone just pissed in your cereal for? And don’t try and tell me it’s because of that last game or whatever because I know that’s bullshit.”

Thanos’ voice pierced through your ears as he sat down beside you on the steel stairs between the bunks. His arms rested on his knees, hands dangling between his open legs as he looked at you expectantly. That was Thanos down to a tee – he needed to know everything immediately, patience wasn’t his strong suit. It frustrated him when he didn’t get answers. You had known this man for far too long to know the signs. The way he was clenching his jaw, his fingers tapping against his leg. 

“...I don’t want to tell you because you’ll laugh at me,” you mumbled, head resting on your arms that were crossed over your pulled up knees.

“Come on, spit it out,” he waved his hand, dismissing your worries. “I probably will laugh but since when did that shit bother you?”

He was right. You never cared before so why now? Well, you knew why. Being trapped in this place with him had resurfaced something you had thought you’d got rid of a long time ago. When you had first met Su-bong, you had the world’s biggest crush on him but he had turned you down, telling you that you should just be friends so… that’s what you were. Now, eight years on and that all consuming crush was back. You were trapped in a life or death game with him, he’d been protecting you and making sure that no harm fell on you. His hand grabbed yours at any opportunity like he just had to be touching you to make sure you were still here. You had never seen so much panic in his eyes than the moment you had almost fell in Red Light, Green Light. Luckily, he had managed to grab your arm to stop you from meeting your end. Su-bong wasn’t someone that wore his heart on his sleeve but when he cared, he cared. That was one thing you were certain of; he cared about you. There were ways he showed it without saying it. Like now, he had come to sit with you, asking you what was going on even if it was in his own annoying way. He had to act like he didn’t care otherwise it would consume him, his anxiety would sky rocket. That was why he was popping those colourful little pills. They may make him act insane but inside they calmed him, made him think clearer so he could protect you.

“Fine,” you sighed. “...it’s Valentine’s Day and I’m just sad I’m stuck in here and not enjoying some chocolate covered strawberries fed to me by some super hot person. Happy now?”

Thanos couldn’t help but bark out a laugh, nudging you with his shoulder. “That’s why you’re feeling sorry for yourself?” He narrowed his eyes, examining you before he decided you weren’t telling him the full truth. A quick shuffle and he was sitting right beside you, his leg touching yours. His arm wrapped around your shoulder, pulling you into his side. It was unusually soft for him but he had these moments with you sometimes. The only person who wouldn’t judge him was you, that was something he knew for certain. “You ain’t tellin’ me the whole story so I’m gonna need you to get that pretty mouth of yours talking more before I go get Nam-su to come glare at you with those beady little eyes of his.”

“You know his name is Nam-gyu, right?” You rested your head on his shoulder, nervously wringing your hands together. Thanos noticed almost immediately, placing a hand on them to stop you. “Remember when we first met? When… uh, when I had a crush on you and your turned me down?”

“Yeah, how could I forget?”

“Well, I might be feeling that way again.”

At those words, he froze up. His body tense, panic flashing across his eyes. Yeah, you shouldn’t have said anything. He would only close himself off now and that was the last thing you needed right now. He had been your whole support system here. The silence between you was almost deafening until he finally spoke. “...you shouldn’t.”

You couldn’t help but roll your eyes. “Wish it was that easy, Su-bong.”

“You wanna know why I turned you down all those years ago?” He had pulled away from you slightly, both his hands now resting on your shoulders as he made you look at him. “Because you fuckin’ deserve better than me. I’m a mess. I’ve always been a mess. I’m no good, especially not for you. Someone like you? You deserve the fuckin’ world and I can’t give you that. I wish I could but I can’t. You need someone who can treat you like the princess you are but, baby, that man ain’t me.”

If it wasn’t anyone else, they wouldn’t have caught the waver in his voice, the way he was looking at you as if pleading for you to listen to him. He meant every word he said but you didn’t. You knew he often got lost in his self loathing thoughts, thinking that he was scum of the Earth but he wasn’t. He was just a lost boy, someone had never had someone care about him like you.

“I don’t care, Su-bong. My heart knows what it wants and it wants you. It isn’t going to stop. It’s been eight years and it’s always felt this way. You are everything to me, you always have been. I wish you could see in yourself what I see in you,” your hand cupped his cheek, the gesture so soft he almost nuzzled into your palm but refrained. “Sure, you’re not perfect but neither am I. I’ll respect whatever you want but… just know that my heart belongs to you.”

His eyebrows scrunched together as if he was in deep thought, one of his hands playing with the chain of the necklace that hung around his neck. His cross; the one that contained his drugs. It looked like he was in an internal conflict with himself before, finally, he pulled the necklace over his head and onto you. You felt your heart pounding as his fingers skimmed across your chest, making sure the cross laid properly. “You’re a damn pain in my ass, you know that? But… I’ve been into you the day we met, just thought you deserved more than I can give you. So, this is my promise to you to show you that I trust you, that maybe I’ll try and be the person you deserve some day. Ain’t never let anyone wear this other than me, by the way.”

The gesture meant more to you than you could even put into words, your heart hammering against your chest as he tapped the cross. You smiled up at him, hand resting over his. “The highest honour, huh?” You couldn’t help but tease to at least ease some of the tension. “It means a lot… and Su-bong? I believe in you.”

You heard the small, breathy laugh that came from his lips as he looked at the ground trying to hide it. That meant more to him than you would know. Finally, he looked back up at you, his arm back around your shoulder to pull you back into his side. “We get out of this shithole and I’ll feed you all the damn chocolate strawberries you want.”

“I’ll hold you to that.”

As you rested your head on his shoulder, his thumb rubbing gentle circles on yours, you knew that once you got out of here things were definitely going to change but it gave you something to look forward to. His promise the one thing that would get you through these deathly games.

taglist (ask to be added!): @ldydeath @justsisse @djarindroid @angelofbooksworld @taivantaylor @sherlocke3d @basquiat-top @urmomsg1rlfreind @belladonna-303 @seunghyunwifey @infinetlyforgotten

[squiddyfics]

squid game characters in a relationship with you

saebyeok, thanos, namgyu, daeho, hyunju, semi, the recruiter

description: how squid game characters would be as partners (au; no mention of the games)

18+ minors dni

warnings: nsfw in parts!!

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

saebyeok:

♡ you were the one to ask her out and she quite literally didn't believe it

♡ like she didn't even answer you at first because she didn't think you were being serious

♡ she has a hard time expressing her emotions. you definitely said "i love you" first and it took her a while to feel comfortable saying it back

♡ despite this, she was the one who fell in love first. she just kept that shit to herself lmao

♡ rather than being outwardly affectionate with her words, she expresses her love through quality time. she loves planning dates for you or just cooking for you at home

♡ she's not big on pda, but she'll wrap a protective arm around you while you're out together

♡ if someone hits on you, she'll get even more protective. partly out of jealousy, but mostly because she hates the thought of someone making you uncomfortable

♡ she's a generous lover. def more of a giver if you know what i mean

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

thanos:

♡ he was the one to approach you, and he was bold about it too

♡ you aren't his first partner by any means, but you're his first real love

♡ he looooves to show you off. "look at my baby. look how lucky i got."

♡ naturally, this means he's into pda. the more eyes on the two of you, the better. he wants the whole world to know you're his

♡ especially if someone shows interest in you... then he gets even more touchy, so he can rub it in their face that you're his, all his

♡ if anyone wrongs you, he'll vow to make their life a living hell. you can't even gossip about your work drama to him without him getting angry on your behalf and threatening to kill them

♡ even though he talks a big game he knows he's lowk a loser and he doesn't take it for granted that you choose to stay by his side

♡ that being said he makes you his bitch in bed. he's for sure heavily on the dominant side

♡ he also has an exhibitionism kink i just feel that in my bones

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

namgyu:

♡ he was the one to make a move on you, but he said it in a joking manner so that if you said no, he could play it off as not being serious

♡ this man's love language is physical touch there's no doubt about it

♡ his words don't match his actions.. like he'll make fun of you for crying during a movie while simultaneously cuddling you and rubbing your back

♡ he doesn't have any cute pet names for you, just insults said in a loving manner ("stinky" etc). he just can't take himself seriously enough to be sappy

♡ you've unlocked his secret second love language, which is sending you memes

♡ he wants to be seen as tough so he pretends to hate it when you call him cute (he does not, in fact, hate it) (it actually melts him)

♡ he gives the evil eye to anyone who dares to look at you for a second too long

♡ you are for his eyes only

♡ he's dominant in bed but he likes you bratty. he wants to work for it

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

daeho:

♡ you had known him for a while, and you had to be the one to ask him out because he was oblivious to all the hints you were dropping

♡ he was too much of a gentleman to risk overstepping your boundaries by asking you on a date

♡ however, once he had the confirmation that you actually liked him, he was all in

♡ he was absolutely the first one to say "i love you". that man fell head over heels

♡ he is patient as fuck and will put up with whatever bullshit you throw at him. like when you tested the orange peel theory on him and he passed with flying colors

♡ you literally have a pet boyfriend. he'll go anywhere with you and do anything to make you happy. your fav himbo <3

♡ he's prone to jealousy but tries not to show it so as not to make a scene in front of you. if someone hurts you, though, all etiquette goes out the window and he's ready to start SWINGING

♡ your pleasure is his priority in bed and he's up for whatever you're into, but when it comes to his preferences, he'd much rather be dominated by you

♡ call him a good boy and his brain will go haywire

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

hyunju:

♡ you definitely had to make the first move. this mf was way too stoic to express her feelings for you

♡ she got anxious and cancelled on you before your first date, so you had to be persistent and reschedule

♡ she was surprised by your strong interest in her, and she still doesn't know how she got so lucky

♡ it took her a bit to open up, but she ended up saying "i love you" first

♡ she's extremely protective of you. her introversion is forgotten as soon as someone upsets you, and she's giving them a piece of her mind within seconds

♡ she doesn't really get jealous, she just gets sad :(

♡ she's an acts of service girly. she'll vacuum your floor, change a flat tire for you, anything to feel useful to you

♡ she gives stone top energy (this one is more for an f!reader as it's a wlw term)

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

semi:

♡ she was the one to ask you out, and she said it so casually that you almost missed it

♡ her first "i love you" was also casual, said as she was leaving your house one morning. "bye, love you."

♡ you honestly don't know if she's prone to jealousy because no one has fucked around and found out. everyone around you two respects her quiet confidence and doesn't even bother trying anything with you

♡ she has strong opinions, but she expresses them calmly. because of this, the two of you never fight, though you do occasionally have respectful debates. you tend to walk away feeling like she was in the right after all

♡ she's not huge on pda unless it's something cute and lowkey like holding hands, or some stupid shit like licking you

♡ you def have a secret handshake

♡ she's a soft dom and she's not shy about wanting to receive. she wants you on your knees in front of her

♡ with that said, she also gives great head. that lip piercing..... iykyk

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

the recruiter:

♡ he asked you out at a bar, making a bet that if you lost at pool, you'd go on a date with him

♡ you lost on purpose so his fine ass would take you on a date, and the rest was history

♡ he said he loved you first, and he said it fast. it's not often that he feels love for someone, so he had to act on it

♡ he would do anything for you. anything. if you asked him for help burying a body, he'd tell you not to get your pretty hands dirty; he'd do it himself

♡ not that that would happen... but he's thought about it. he knows that's how dedicated he is to you

♡ this freaky little fuck doesn't feel an iota of jealousy when others flirt with you. he just smiles, knowing know matter how much they fight for your attention, it'll be his name you're screaming at the end of the night

♡ he likes to be in control in life, and that translates to the bedroom too

♡ he has big sadist energy, but if he ever actually crosses a line he'll drop everything to comfort you (and beat himself up about it)

[whatiswrongwithpeople]

I keep going over the world we knew (p.1)

a player 230/ Thanos/ Su-Bong x fem!reader fic

summary: “It had always been him and her against the world. But if you've been fighting against the world for years, how do you react when you suddenly realize that your best friend has become your world?”

warnings: none really except the usual Thanos/Squid Game stuff. Maybe slightly ooc Thanos? , Written in my notes app.

note: I am just SO in love with him and had to get this idea out of my head. I really hope you enjoy it and that there aren’t any major mistakes!! Also there will be a part 2, I am already working on it!

<3

Part 2

It had been years since Choi Su-Bong had seen her. But there she was, standing in front of him in the same cruel, soulless environment. Player 230—or Thanos, as he liked to call himself —had never imagined that his past would catch up with him like this. And most certainly not in this place.

Thanos shook his head, his purple strands bouncing with the movement. He had avoided thinking about her. Hell, he had worked hard to bury all the memories of their childhood, to force himself to forget. But there she was. [Y/N], looking just as he remembered—except colder, more guarded. Features, that were so soft in his memory, now hardened. Sparkling eyes that had haunted his dreams on more instances than he cared to admit, now dull. But all in all she still looked as angelic to him as she had back then.

When their eyes met, a brief, silent acknowledgment passed between them. [Y/N]’s gaze hardened immediately, keeping the mental wall she had put up years ago firmly in place. Thanos had expected this. He knew she would hate him. Hell, he had wanted her to hate him. But it didn’t stop the flash of regret from hitting him like a sucker punch to the gut.

For a moment, the air between them thickened, and he felt the tension. But Thanos—Su-Bong—quickly decided to ignore his feelings. He wasn’t one to get all sentimental. Not now, and especially not in front of all these people.

"Still playing the silent game, huh?" he muttered, head dipping in her direction. The tone in his voice was smug, as though none of this bothered him. "Some things never change."

[Y/N] didn't even flinch. She glanced at him for a moment, then turned her back to him, choosing to stand away from the others. Her silence was a warning, but Thanos wasn’t one to back down from a challenge. He watched her closely, trying to gauge her every move, convincing himself that it was for the sake of the games and all , but he knew this was different. This wasn’t just about the games he currently found himself trapped in. This was about the game he had been playing all his life, far more personal than any debts could ever be.

—-

The first game had passed and Thanos found himself behind the finish line. The gunshots, the chaos, the fear—it was all a blur inside of his high brain. But even in the midst of his rush, Thanos hadn’t been able to help himself but keep his eyes on her. [Y/N]. She had survived, sharp eyes calculating her every step. He was just about to make a cocky comment about her tactics when suddenly his mind wandered back to the past.

That one memory.

He had been younger, somewhat quieter. A boy with too many troubles and just as many questions. And [Y/N], she had somehow always been the answer. Even when he had found himself going down the dark path of addiction [Y/N] had been the only person refusing to abandon him. She’d spent hours keeping him company, sitting on his bedroom floor, his pills scattered across the floor between them. And no matter what bullshit he had managed to come up with, she had always been right by his side, smiling in that soft, teasing way that made him want to say something—anything—just to hear her laugh. Back then, there had been no fear, no weight of the world. Just the simplicity of two weirdos being together.

However, now, it felt like he had never known that version of himself. Su-Bong, the boy who didn’t have to push her away, the boy who never stopped smiling because of her. It had always been him and her against the world.

But if you've been fighting against the world for years, how do you react when you suddenly realize that your best friend has become your world? Unwilling to confront this question and the weight it carried, Su-Bong had ran from her, terrified of what he was feeling.

[Y/N] hadn’t known the truth. She still didn’t.

—-

The rest of the day went by in a blur and sooner than later the second game arrived. As [Y/N] and her team were making their way from mini game to mini game, Thanos observed her closely, pushing other players out of the way to crouch down at the very edge of the circular track. It was time for [Y/N] to succeed in her designated game, Gonggi. As she crouched down in front of the little table with the pebbles, her eyes quickly wandered to scan her opponents, but never once did they land on him. Thanos could see the determination in her face, the sharpness in her eyes, but there was something else. It wasn’t just the game she was playing—it was him. She was avoiding him. And he hated it.

As Thanos took his place at the inner edge of the circle, [Y/N] could feel the pressure of the game weighing on her heart. The memory of that game, their shared past, gnawed at her. She didn’t understand why but all of sudden it felt just like yesterday that she had been sitting across from Su-Bong on the wooden floor of his childhood room. Even though [Y/N] had never directly stopped him from using drugs, she had always worried about the -now purple haired- boy.

Back then he had the careless habit of messily scattering his pills on the floorboards between them, claiming it to be “for the sake of transparency”. And so, in her own twisted way of taking care of him and keeping him away from over-consumption , [Y/N] eventually started playing Gonggi with the pills, establishing the rule that Su-Bong could only continue his consume if she lost. She never lost once.

Shaking her head to get rid of the memory, [Y/N] prepared her pebbles, her fingers swift and precise. Thanos , who had been reaching for his cross necklace, slowly tucked it back under his shirt as watched her carefully from his spot. "You’re still as good as you were," he shouted, his voice booming. However, [Y/N] didn’t look up. Her focus never wavering.

"Don’t talk to me, Su-Bong," she replied flatly, her voice colder than it had ever been.

That hurt.

It shouldn’t have or at the very least he should have expected it. He wasn’t someone who allowed emotions to control him, but there was something about her rejecting him—like a door slamming shut , shutting him out from everything they had been—that made him freeze. For the briefest moment, he wanted to reach out. To break that wall she had so meticulously built. But he didn’t.

Instead, he gave a half-hearted chuckle, leaning back with his usual arrogance. "Fine. I’ll just watch then. It’s not like I need to be nice to you to survive this."

As her hand caught the pebbles in the final move, [Y/N]’s eyes shot up at him, sharp as ever. "Keep thinking that, Su-Bong," she snapped, her voice cutting through the air. "Because this isn’t about who can survive. It’s about who’s willing to lose everything for a game. And I’m not sure you're ready for that."

[dreamykira]

You Shouldn't Be Here I NAM-GYU x reader

˗ˏˋSUMMARY ´ˎ˗

╰┈➤ Thrown into the deadly Squid Game, the reader is shocked to find their cold and stoic boyfriend, Nam-Gyu, among the players. After barely surviving Red Light, Green Light, they reunite—but instead of relief, Nam-Gyu is furious.

˗ˏˋWARNINGS ´ˎ˗

╰┈➤ Angst to fluff, mentions of shooting, mentions of blood. Nam-Gyu is really kind of mean. Other than that there really shouldn't be anything else. ps! English is not my first language

˗ˏˋAUTHOR'S NOTE ´ˎ˗

╰┈➤ i've been CRAVING some nam-gyu angst. i feel like most of the fics i've read abt him are always super explicit, kind of making him look like a manipulative maniac who is addicted to violent sex. so i wanted to write something that still kind of shows his mean and "dickheadish" side, but also brings out the love he has for the reader.

word count: 894

You don’t know how you’re still standing.

Your legs feel weak, your body is trembling, and the sound of gunfire still rings in your ears. The first game—Red Light, Green Light—had been nothing like you imagined. You thought it was a joke at first. You thought it was some elaborate prank.

But now, all you can think about is the bodies. The way people screamed. The way the floor was painted red in an instant.

And you survived. Somehow, you survived. 

You force yourself to keep moving as the remaining players shuffle back into the dormitory, but all you want to do is collapse. Your hands won’t stop shaking, and your throat is so dry it hurts.

That’s when you see him.

The moment you see Nam-Gyu standing across the dormitory, your stomach twists into a knot. He looks just as intimidating as ever—tall, broad-shouldered, and completely unapproachable, his dark eyes scanning the room with a permanent scowl. But when his gaze lands on you, that scowl hardens into something much worse.

Oh no.

You don’t even get a chance to look away before he starts moving, shoving past other contestants without a care. You shrink back, instinctively pressing yourself against the wall, heart hammering. Maybe if you keep your head down, he’ll just—

Nope.

“Are you fucking kidding me?” he hisses, voice low but sharp.

You blink up at him, heart hammering. “W-What?”

He yanks you toward the farthest corner of the room, away from prying eyes. His grip is tight, and your body is too weak to resist. The second he stops, he lets go of your wrist—only to shove your shoulder, making you stumble back a step.

“I—” You swallow, trying to find the right words, but your mind blanks under his glare.

“You didn’t tell me you were joining,” he snaps. “What the hell were you thinking?”

You hesitate, then mumble, “I… I didn’t know you’d be here.”

Nam-Gyu’s expression twists with something close to fury. “That’s not the point, idiot.” He steps closer, his presence suffocating. “You think this is some kind of a joke? Do you even understand where the hell you are?”

Your throat feels tight. “I— I didn’t have a choice.”

His scoff is sharp and cold. “Bullshit.”

Tears prickle at the corners of your eyes, but you blink them away as fast as you can. You don’t want to cry in front of him—not when he’s already looking at you like you’re pathetic.

“I thought… I thought maybe I could win,” you whisper. “You always said I was useless when it came to paying off our debt, but if I win, I—”

“You?” He cuts you off with a bitter laugh. “You think you’re gonna make it through this?” His words hit harder than you expect. “You can’t even stand up for yourself in normal life. What makes you think you’re gonna survive this?”

You flinch, tears welling up faster now. “I—I don’t know.” Your voice wobbles, and you hate how small you sound.

Nam-Gyu exhales sharply, dragging a hand down his face like he’s losing his patience. “Unbelievable,” he mutters. “Of all people, it had to be you.”

That does it. The tears spill over, and you quickly look down, ashamed. You knew he’d be mad. You knew he wouldn’t be happy to see you. But did he really have to say it like that?

Nam-Gyu lets out a sharp breath. “Oh, for fuck’s sake—”

“I—I won’t bother you,” you manage, wiping at your face with your sleeve. “If it’s such a problem, I’ll stay away. You don’t have to take care of me.”

The second the words leave your mouth, Nam-Gyu freezes. His whole body tenses like you just said something truly offensive.

“…What?” His voice is dangerously low now.

You sniffle, still not looking at him. “I get it. Worrying about me will stress you out. So I’ll stay out of your way. I promise.”

The silence that follows is suffocating. Then, in one swift movement, Nam-Gyu grabs your wrist again—gentler this time, but no less firm.

“Don’t be stupid.” His voice is quieter now, but there’s something sharp underneath it. “You think I’m just gonna let you wander around here alone? Get yourself killed?”

You hesitate. “But you—”

“I don’t care what I said,” he cuts you off, his grip tightening just slightly. “You’re not leaving my side.”

Your breath catches, but before you can process it, Nam-Gyu sighs heavily. Then, without another word, he pulls you into his chest.

You freeze.

He’s never been like this before— never let his walls down even a little. But now, with his arms around you, one hand pressing against the back of your head, you can feel it. The way his heart beats just a little too fast. The way his fingers twitch like he wants to hold on tighter.

“…Stop crying,” he mutters, though there’s no real bite in his voice anymore. “I’m not mad at you.”

That’s a lie, but somehow, you believe him anyway.

You sniffle again, gripping the front of his jacket. “You sounded mad.”

Nam-Gyu sighs again, pressing his forehead against the top of your head. “Yeah, well… you scared the shit out of me.”

It’s the closest thing to an “I care about you” that you’re ever going to get from him. And for now, it’s enough.

[imliterallyf7ckin9crazy]

“𝔄𝔩𝔩 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔴𝔞𝔱𝔢𝔯 𝔦𝔫 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔴𝔬𝔯𝔩𝔡, 𝔞𝔩𝔩 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔪𝔬𝔫𝔢𝔶 𝔦𝔫 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔴𝔬𝔯𝔩𝔡”

Nam gyu (124) x gn!reader x thanos (Choi su bong/player 230)

Warnings: angst kinda comfort…You’ll see, canon death, spoilers ig?, blood and violence, drug use, nam gyu isn’t that good of a person (still somehow my fav but whatever)

If you haven’t seen episodes 6 & 7 pls spare yourself. I literally used some dialogue from the English transcript

A/N: Okokok this will be my last nam gyu and thanos post for a sec so I can write stuff for arcane. Then some of my other favs from squid game too. But I cooked this up for these guys :3

TLDR: you, 230, and 124 are close friends. there’s the huge fight in the boys bathroom and thanos is killed by 333. Nam gyu comes out talking all crazy. You sit with him and he tells you what actually happened. And that he and everyone else who voted ‘O’ wants to attack the ‘X’ choosers during lights out.

————

Your eyes wade between the separated groups in the room. The vote ended in a danm tie, meaning the vote must be redone tomorrow. And people better have changed their vote.

Everyone was on edge, the hostility between the ‘X’ and ‘O’ groups was palpable. Glares, taunts, threats… even though the split existed from the beginning it still felt like everyone was in it together. Now it feels like a cage fight.

You sigh and rub your face, pulling yourself out of your habitual people watching. Nam gyu and thanos scampered off to the bathroom together. To ‘talk to our boy min-su about his vote’ as thanos put it. They promised to be back soon, and it was just to convince him to change his vote for the recount.

You knew that was bullshit. You knew and they knew the guy, player 333, was also in there. Along with half the ‘X’ team. They brought trouble everywhere they went. Sparing no one but each other… and you? In a way. They still strong armed you into sticking with the games, and they don’t really let you go far. They always appear together at the just right time to pull you off and rambled their fried little heads off. It made you feel special, and it’s safe to say you were left alone by everyone else.

But they have been gone for a suspiciously long time. Min-su isn’t known to stand up for himself so it can’t be him holding them up. Instead of observing your peers, your attention was now trained on the men’s bathroom door. Two pink soldiers stood just outside, guns clutched in hand.

‘What could be taking them so long?’ You wondered as you stared and stared and stared until you could have sworn you saw the door shake in its frame. Like something was being thrown against it. You kept looking, trying to decipher if you were just seeing things. Just as you begin to stand up money began to flow from the dispenser into the growing pot of money. Very soon after players began to clamber out of the bathroom.

The men walked out of the ‘O’ side first, battered to all hell with each one spattered with sickening amount of blood. Your eyes raced between the first few players to come out, searching for your friends. Desperate to see your only source of comfort, friendship and safety hasn’t been taken from you. Then nam gyu came out, equally doused in blood if not more so. Hands stained dark red with fresh blood, looking at everyone with this insane look in his eyes and out of breath. But no thanos. You immediately got the hint you’d never see him walk out of there.

He starts telling everyone that the ‘X’ players attacked the ‘O’s in the bathroom to sway the votes. Before that got too far it the other side made their way out, claiming that it was actually the ‘O’ team started the blood bath. The whole situation became who’s lying and who’s not. Further stirring the pot of resentment in the room. However that didn’t matter much to you. What mattered is that you still had something to cling to in a place where lives are ended over nothing. After the whole debate you got up and caught up to nam gyu who was making his way to thanos’ bed with dazed steps.

“Nam gyu!” You called for him, making him look over his shoulder in disgust until he saw it was just you. His facial expression changed from irritated to somewhat relieved. But he looked very different, even though nothing changed. He was covered in blood that wasn’t previously there obviously but it was something in his eyes. In his demeanor. In his soul. He stopped for a second for you.

When you get within his reach he is immediately resting his hands on your shoulder and giving them light pats. You think it’s his way of saying he’s ok. It was unusual for him to be so quiet, he usually has infinite things to say. You move to put your hands on his forearms in return. “What the actual fuck happened in there?”

All he did was tilt his head to the side, gesturing to thanos’ bed you all used to hang out. Clearly whatever it was he didn’t want anyone to know or hear. You just nod and follow as you walk with him until he crawls onto thanos’ bed and rubs his face as if he’s trying to tell if this is all real. Eventually he looks at you with tear glazed eyes, but not one tear fell. Quietly he reveals thanos’ cross out from his pocket.

“Oh, Thanos, you fսcking idiot. You were a piece of shit dude, you know that?” He says and you look at him with a confused expression. You could tell he didn’t mean it, why else would it be when you look at him you can tell it hurts him. He can try to pretend he doesn’t care, but he does. He pops open the cross and takes a pill out and places it in his mouth. “Couldn't get my name right”

“What happened.” You repeat, sitting down next to him, shoulders touching. He immediately leaned on you. He looks at you and gives the fakest chuckle you’ve ever heard.

“We were…discussing the vote with min-su” nam gyu starts “but that fucking cunt myung-gi came in acting all smart. He threw the first punch and it just kept going from there…” he trailed off, looking at you with this lost, dead look. “He’s gone”

You knew that, but it still hurts. You could tell it hurt him to say too. You lean your head on him as tears well in your eyes. Thanos was a terrible person, that’s just a fact. But he was different one on one. With the silly names, dancing, rapping… he always had something to say and made sure you had safety measures. Constantly reassuring you that him and nam gyu wouldn’t let you die.

Player 333….

“We lost one more than the other team. We’d lose the vote.” He picks the conversation back up, speaking in a soft voice. The voice he uses when he wants something. “We have to attack them tonight. Kill them. So we can keep playing”

Your jaw drops a bit. He’s really asking you to kill people so you both can stay and possibly die too? Like thanos? Like all the other strangers you had to watch he murdered inches away from you. “I don’t know…I don’t know if I could do that nam gyu-“

Suddenly nam gyu grabs your hand, looking you in the eyes as he places something small and round in the palm of your hand then closing your hand around it with a twisted smile. You look.

It’s a small bright red colored tablet. One of thanos’ little pills. You look up at nam gyu nervously. You open your mouth to protest but he doesn’t let you. “Just take it. It will help you. Don’t you want the money? Don’t you want to see each other outside of here, huh? Have a good life?” He pressures you, taking his hands and playing with your jacket, sleeves, anything on you he could touch. “This is how we can do that, yeah? You’ll feel better after you take that, I swear. Then it will be over after light out, okay?”

You just nod, close your eyes and take the pill, crushing it in your teeth. “There you go” he praises. He pulls a bloody fork from his pocket. “You can do you it” he says with a deadly smile. And all you can do is agree as you begin to feel lighter and lighter

————

[idciminlove]

FIGHTER.

Part One - X

Kang Dae Ho x f!reader

Cinnamonacid on AO3

Warnings- debts, threats, anxiety, fighting, anger issues, exhaustion, allusions to sexual harassment, chronic illness, etc.

Fighting is all you've ever known. It's all you've ever been good at, and when desperate times call for desperate measures, you wind up fighting for your life in the Squid Games.

But then you meet Dae Ho, the only person who can get you to lower your fists.

With his help, maybe, just maybe, the both of you can get out alive.

The lights in the ring are blinding, ugly cheap LEDs hanging from the ceiling that make your eyes sting. You ignored it, along with the familiar stenches that filled your nose- booze and cigarettes, blood and sweat.

Your head throbbed in pain as you hardly managed to block the punch from the woman in front of you, your opponent. Sweat dripped down your nose. Exhaustion and fatigue ached in your bones. But you knew you couldn’t stop. You couldn’t lose. You wouldn’t be able to afford it.

You clenched your gloved fists, holding them close to you and shuffling your feet. You furrowed your brows and took a shaky breath. Focus.

Your opponent lunged at you, swinging, but you fully blocked her hit this time, returning it with one of your own. She blocked it. You pushed against her arms, keeping her focus on your hands and waiting for that split second of vulnerability, so you could rear back and kick her in the side, causing her to double over and clutch her stomach. You kicked her again and she fell to the ground. The referee started counting, and you watched as she grasped her side, struggling to get up and catch her breath.

She didn’t get up. The referee grabbed your arm, raising it into the air to declare you as the winner. You could hardly even hear the cheers around you, too focused on the girl you had beaten, gazing at her over your shoulder. She was still on the ground, gasping for air and sobbing in pain. Guilt and concern washed over you in waves. You hoped you hadn’t done any severe damage. From the looks of it, she had a broken rib or two at least, and it was all your fault.

You did that. You caused that.

–

Fighting was the only thing you’ve ever been good at. It’s all you’ve wanted to do since you were little, following in your father’s footsteps from his career as a professional in the MMA. You were basically raised in the ring. It was your sanctuary. Your safe space, where you could channel all your emotions and embrace them. You loved it.

Of course, that was back when you were fighting for fun. But now, you’re fighting for your life.

It was awful. You hated fighting in these shitty underground rings, with little to no rules or regulations, being leered at by older men while you fought tooth and nail, desperately needing to get by.

You tapped your foot against the counter impatiently, gazing at the older man sitting across from you in the makeshift bank clerk’s office. He was chubby, with greying hair and an ever growing bald spot on the back of his head. You weren’t exactly a fan, but he was the one who took the bets, collected all the money, and gave you a decent cut of it. So you were patient, letting him finish with his online poker game, knowing that once he was done, you would get paid.

“Here’s your cut.” He slid an envelope to you through the opening under the glass window. You tore it open, counting the bills.

You frowned as you finished, placing the envelope back on the counter. “You’re short, by a million at least.”

The older man didn’t even bother to look up from the monitor, leaning back in his seat and taking another puff from his cigar. “No, that’s the right amount.”

“Bullshit.”

“Listen sweetheart, money’s been tight ever since the cops busted that underground casino down the road, and now they’re trying to sniff around my place too. Not to mention people have been going missing, probably on the run or lying low. That’s the best you’re going to do for a while until everything calms down.”

You scoffed. “I could make more money fighting with a hand tied behind my back. Speaking of, what the hell was that back there? That girl you had me fight was way too new. She could’ve died.”

“I don’t know why you’re complaining. You won and you got your money. If you don’t like it, you can go somewhere else. And if you need the money that badly, I’m sure there’s much easier things you can do to get it.” He sneered, his eyes wandering your body.

Disgusting prick.

You didn’t answer him, just grabbed your money and stormed off.

–

You couldn’t remember the last time your mother had been healthy. It had been years. She had been overlooked by the lesser doctors, the only ones you could afford with how little you had, appointment after appointment of misdiagnosis and lack of treatment causing her health to decline and progress into the late stages of pancreatic cancer, finally diagnosed almost a full year after she first got sick.

One of the strongest people you’ve ever known now looked so frail and weak, lying in front of you in the hospital bed, her body thin, bags under her eyes, her cheeks sunken from malnutrition, a side effect from the chemotherapy. The only time she didn’t seem in pain was when she rested, looking so peaceful, breathing gentle breaths, followed by the soft beep from the monitor. You reached over and took her hand, holding it softly.

She awoke from the contact, opening her eyes slowly and smiling at you. “Come to visit again, hm?”

You nodded. She gave your hand a weak squeeze, gazing out the window, noticing that there was a considerable amount of daylight left. “Shouldn’t you be working right now?”

“I got the day off.” You lied.

“Oh really?” She pulled her hand from yours, pinching your chin where a noticeable bruise had started to form, probably from today’s fight. You winced. “Did you think I wouldn’t notice this? Or the cuts on your knuckles? I’m not an idiot. What happened to your job as a waitress? Don’t tell me you got fired already.”

You sighed. “It wasn’t my fault. That place was hardly paying me anything anyway. It wasn’t worth it.”

You tried to work normal jobs. You really did. But no matter what, something always went wrong.

Your most recent venture was waitressing at some shitty dive bar. One of the patrons ran his hand under your skirt, causing you to throw him through a table and almost break his arm. Most of your jobs went like that, with someone always pushing you over the edge and causing you to snap.

You always have had an awful temper. Your Dad liked to say you had fire running through your veins, bubbling up and boiling over. As you got older, you hoped it would get better, but life just got harder and harder, and it made everything worse.

“You promised me that you would stop fighting. I’m not going to be around forever, you know. You have to take care of yourself. I need to know that you’re going to be okay when I’m gone.” Her touch went soft, stroking her fingers over the bruise before pulling away, grimacing in discomfort as she lied back.

“I know, but you don’t have to worry about me, Mama. Right now, it’s my job to take care of you. I just need a little more money and then I can pay for your next treatment. Only a few more fights and-”

She shook her head. “You’re always so damn stubborn, just like your father. Having to do things your own way and never letting anyone help.”

You gazed down at your lap, bowing your head. “I know. I’m sorry.”

She sighed softly, reaching over for your hand again. “I’m hard on you because I care. I can’t lose you. You’re all I have left. Please, promise me you’ll be safe. If anything happened to you, I don’t know what I’d do.”

She was begging, and pleading. You could see the desperation, the love, the need in her eyes. You gave her hand a soft squeeze. “Okay, Mama. I promise. I’ll be safe.”

She fell asleep not long after that, your conversation probably wearing her out. You made her worry so much, sometimes, you think it would be better if you didn’t visit at all. Maybe she would be better off without you. But you knew that wasn’t true. She was your mother and your best friend. She was all you had now. You needed her, and she needed you.

You pressed a small kiss to her forehead, before you got up and left.

–

You sat back on your bench as you waited for the train to arrive. The day had been long and dreadful, and all you wanted to do was to lay in your bed. Your bones ached with fatigue, your muscles burning and sore, and there was still that throbbing headache you had from your last fight. You prayed it wasn’t another concussion, that was the last thing you needed right now. No matter what, you knew you had to push through it.

Your phone buzzed. You gazed at the cracked screen, feeling a dread pool in your stomach. You knew exactly who it was.

Unknown: Your monthly payment is due tomorrow at 8. Don’t forget

You: Can’t we push it back? I need a little more time

Unknown: No

Unknown: Same meeting place as last time, tomorrow at 10. 8 million and no less. Be there and bring the money or else.

The last thing you needed right now was the loan sharks breathing down your neck too. You ran your fingers over the envelope in your pocket. All the money you had saved for your mother was once again going to have to go down the drain. Snatched away by those damn bastards that have been terrorizing you for a better half of your life now, blaming you for a debt that wasn’t even yours.

“Fuck!” You shouted, kicking over a nearby trash can. Frustration overwhelmed you, along with anxiety, desperation, and hopelessness. You ran your hands through your hair, feeling the tears well up in your eyes, trying to catch your breath and calm down

You stared at the ground. A pair of polished shoes stepped into your vision. “Rough day?”

You looked up at the man standing before you. Tall and handsome, nice suit and tie, briefcase in hand…a salesman. He offered you a charming smile. “Maybe I could be of assistance.”

[lightmeuplivly]

Fishes

Kang Dae- ho x f!reader

A/n: heyyy back with another squid game fic. This literally took me hours to do so I hope you guys enjoy ngl I did not prof read so lmk if there’s any mistakes also I switched the story kinda it still follows the same plot I guess but the reader takes place of player 222 but not pregnant so yeah lmk if there’s any mistakes. Also requests are open for everyoneeeeee❤️

Word count: 3.5k

It was after the first game. For some reason God only knows you survived. In the beginning when the man was yelling about the games something about you believed him. There’s no way someone just picks you up with a promise to play games for big money without a catch. I guess the catch here was death. You hadn’t had a lot of debt, you just made some irresponsible money decisions. 

When the guards came in saying that there would be a vote to go home you were glad. You weren’t thinking everyone was going to be greedy but they did. 181 X’s 182 O’s. You were crushed. You didn’t know if you would live to see the next vote. When the lights went off at night you cried silently not knowing if you would ever see the light of day again.

The next morning you were woken up by the song you had been woken up to the day before. You woke up still thinking this was a long nightmare but it wasn’t. The guards told you to line up for breakfast before the next game. You have talked to a few people since being here. You met an older woman and her son who you thought were the nicest people.

“Do you have family outside of here?” The older woman asked you while you guys were eating. You looked at her a little taken aback by the question. You didn’t like talking much about your family. Not because they were bad people or anything just you didn’t want people to be that close to you to know your family.

“I do but we’re not that close” you said giving her a tight lipped smile hoping she would drop the subject. After a while of eating and talking the guards announced it was time for the next game. You had heard around the room that the next game would be Dalgona. The easiest shape to pick would be a triangle so you already knew what to do. But as soon as you got to the game room you quickly realised this was not Dalgona. The room had two rainbow circled tracks on the ground and multiple flags from different countries hanging from the ceiling. Once all the players got into the room the voice started to explain the game and told us to get in groups of five players. Since you had been with the older woman and her son you decided that you only had to find two more people.

The older woman’s son went around the room looking for two more people but as soon as he said that you and the older woman would be their teammates they rejected the offer. The ten minute timer was getting closer to zero and you had met with a younger girl and another woman. Your team seemed strong. You had all different types of people on your team until…

“Why did you have me come to you?” a woman with crazy eyes said. You had recognized her from earlier when you were voting saying something about you can’t choose where you were born or where you died. You didn’t know it all sounded like bullshit to you. 

“I’m sorry miss but we already have five people” the older woman’s son said trying to be polite. She scoffed looking at your team up and down and stopping at you. 

“You should drop her, she looks weak” she said looking you dead in the eye. Her stare didn’t scare you but at the same time you didn’t want to make enemies in this place. You broke eye contact first.

“It’s okay you can take my spot. I can find another team” you said dryly with a tight lipped smile. Your team looked at you in fear. They did not want to be teamed up with someone like her. You looked up at the clock. 2:49. You had two minutes and forty-nine seconds to find another team. As you were about the walk away the older woman grabbed your arm.

“Are you sure we can tell her to get lost? I would rather be on a team with you anyway” she said seriously. You waved her off though

“It’s fine i’ll find another team” you responded with an actual genuine smile. She let you go and hoped that you would find another team in time. As you walked you took a look up at the clock again. 2:26. You let out a sigh hoping that you would find someone in time. While you were still looking at the clock not looking where you were going you bumped into a man. He had longer hair in a half up half down style. He was cute you thought. If you were on the outside world he would be the kind of guy you would approach but now in this circumstance it was all about survival.

“I’m so sorry miss i didn’t see where I was going” he said while trying to steady you with his arms. You didn’t mind though his touch felt comforting.

“It’s okay I wasn’t watching where I was going either” you said as his arms left you. You missed it.

“Umm do you happen to need one more person for your team. I had to leave the team I was with in the beginning.” you told him as your eyes were faced to the ground. He looked at you for a second, you didn’t look weak at all and seemed you could really be an asset to the team. You didn’t think that he’ll take you though. You were a woman and you guys didn’t even know what game it was yet.

He interrupted your thoughts “ Will you do anything it takes to win?” he said as your head lifted from the ground. 

“Yes I will” you said proudly hoping that he would let you in his team. 

“Okay follow me” he said as you trailed him back to his group. You looked at the time again. 1:03. It was too late for them to dump you for another teammate right? When you got back to his group you saw three other men. One of the men you remember from the beginning saying that he has played these games before. 

“Guys I found our last player” he says as he moves aside to let them meet you.

“She said she’ll do whatever it takes to win” he says as he nudges you forward to say something to the three men.

“Yeah” you agreed “I’ll do whatever it takes to survive” you say as the timer goes off, initiating that the time to pick teams is over.

The speaker overhead explained the game. It would be a six legged race where your ankles would be chained up and you would go through five mini games. Ddakji, flying stone, Gongi, spinning top, and jjegi.

“I guess it’s good we have a female on our team” one of your teammates said. “You know how to play gongi right?”

You shook your head slowly “I’ve never played it before” you responded softly a little scared they would scold you for not knowing. When suddenly the man that chose you to be on the team raised his hand

“I can play gongi” he said with his hoodie slightly covering his mouth

Your teammates laughed “A former marine knows how to play gongi?”

“I have four older sisters, I played with them alot” he responded. When the timer went off for who to play what games it was settled. You would play ddakji, One of the men would play flying stone, the man that chose you would play gongi, another one of the men would play spinning top, and the winner of the previous games would play jjegi.

And the games started. The first few groups were wiped out, not making it past gongi. But it was time for your former team that you were with in the beginning to go. You were scared. You didn’t want to see them die. When the gun went off to signify the start of the games you got anxious. You were sitting next to the man who chose you to be on the team. He was practicing gongi because he knew that it could take up the most time. When the younger girl on your team before lost the first round of ddakji you reached out for his hand to hold. Your touch was shocking. At first he didn’t know what to do.

“ I’m sorry for doing this but this is really scary. Can I please hold your hand a little longer” you said with a pleading look in your eyes. He nodded his head and interlocked fingers with you. For some reason even though you didn’t know him you felt safe around him. Other members of your team seemed to notice your hands but chose to say nothing. By now the timer was ticking down and the woman who took your spot on your last team was struggling with the spinning top. Until the other woman slapped her twice back to back. That seemed to get her in shape. When it was the other woman's turn to play jjegi she politely asked everyone to turn around and they obliged as she went. When everyone heard the jjegi hit five times, everyone turned around to cheer. All five of them crossed the finish line with seconds to spare. Your team and others jumped up to celebrate. You and the longer haired man’s fingers still interlocked, celebrated and cheered for the other team before gunshots were heard from the other side of the room bringing the reality of the situation back to you.

–

It was your team's turn to go. You were one of the last two teams on the track. You didn’t have an audience which you were kinda sad about but it also helped you guys focus more. When the final gun went off for you to start your race you and your team moved as a unit. It was your turn first. On your first flip the ddakji flipped over and your team had a mini celebration before moving on to the next game. Everyone was getting past on the first try except when it came to the spinning top. The man messed up twice and even managed to swing the top behind you guys. But eventually he locked in and went to the final game jjegi. We only had seconds to spare. The man hit the jjegi four times before it lost control on the last one but both men put their foot forward to save it and it was a pass.

Your team crossed the finish line right as the timer went off. You guys celebrated for a little bit thanking God you were still alive but more bullets from the other side of the room made you sick. You walked back with the guards and some people seemed disappointed that there were more people that survived but when you got back in the room the older woman rushed to give you a hug.

“I’m so glad you found a team and made it back safely. I was worried about you.” she said holding you tight and you hugged her back. It kind of reminded you of how your mother used to. 

“I’m fine I had a great team” you said while letting her go. You talk to her a little more before going to vote.

Before the vote, one of your teammates encouraged everyone to vote to go home. You had already voted to go home the first time so you didn’t need to be told twice. But after the vote was over the O’s won by a few good votes. And even worse one of your teammates voted for O. After that you just wanted eat and maybe find to find the man that had chosen you.

–

“Hey” you say as you interrupt the long haired man as he is eating.

“Hey” he responds back after he chews the food in his mouth.

“I just wanted to say thank you for letting me join your team,” You say while looking at the ground smiling. “And for letting me hold your hand while I was a little scared” you say looking up at him now.

He smiles at you “It’s no problem without you we wouldn’t have made it out of there” he said. 

“No, that was all you. You did the gongi so fast I've never seen anything like it.” you say to him with a genuine smile. “What’s your name?” you ask him. 

“Dae-ho” he holds out his hand for you to shake.

“Y/N” you shake his hand slowly.

–

It was time for lights out. As you sat with Dae-ho to eat you found out your other teammates' names, Jung-bae, Young-il, and Gi-hun. You decided that you would stick with them for the time being. You decided to sleep by them too but really wanting to sleep closer to Dae-ho. Even though the light’s went out you and Dae-ho stayed up a little longer to talk and get to know each other more.

He thought you were beautiful. You were smart and funny too. He couldn’t imagine how you had gotten here but he was selfishly a little glad you were here. 

“Do you have anybody at home?” he asks, facing you as you both are laying down.

“Nope just me and my fishes” you say back with a laugh. “What about you? Do you have anybody waiting for you at home?” you say inching closer to him.

“Nah I’m all alone” he said as he rested his hand behind his head with his eyes closed. Even with all the chaos you both were in he looked so peaceful. You faced him laying on your side looking at him and taking him in. He was cute of course but also so much more than that.

“Y/N?” he said quietly while his eyes were still closed.

“Yeah?”

“You know your fish are probably dead right?” he says with a slight laugh. You laughed back and hit him with the pillow you were just laying on. Even in life and death situations he made you laugh.

“I hate you” you said as your laughter died down. He was still laughing slightly.

“When we get out of here I’ll buy you more fishes if you agree to go on a date with me?” He says as he faces you.

You let out a small laugh “are you seriously asking me out when there’s a possibility we both die tomorrow?”

“I’m not letting you die, not before our date at least” he says with a determined look in his eyes. He looked dead serious and in that moment you started to trust him.

“Dae-ho you don’t even know me” you say as you look him dead in his eyes. You were starting really like him to the point it would crush you if he died.

“I know you’re beautiful, smart, and you understand my sense of humor, and also on our date I can get to know you even more.” he says. He meant every word you said and by the look in his eyes you believed him.

“Okay, I would love to go out on a date with you” you respond with a wide smile. He smiles back too.

“We should probably get some sleep, we don't know what’s ahead of us tomorrow” you say as you feel yourself getting tired. You yawn as you put your pillow back under your head and shut your eyes.

“Goodnight Y/N”

“Goodnight Dae-ho”

–

You woke up the next morning ready for the next game. All morning you and Dae-ho stayed close together talking about anything and everything. When it was time for the game and you and your group walked to the game room you saw lots of doors and a platform in the middle. You scoot a little closer to Dae-ho to feel safe before he grabs your hand and interlocks fingers.

“You okay?” he asks. You nod your head not being entirely truthful but you felt better.

“Whatever you do try to stay close to me” he whispered in your ear. You nod your head again headed to the platform ready to be told the rules of the next game. 

The mingle game. It was explained that the speaker will say a number we have 30 seconds to get in groups of that number and into a room. You were determined the whole time you would stay close to Dae-ho. The platform started moving and the song began to play. You were starting to get nervous but your group devised a plan if the number was above five Gi-hun and Young-il would go find more people.

The platform stopped. Ten players. The speaker said, you, Dae-ho, and Jung-bae ran to a room while Gi-hun and Young-il found more people. They found the older woman and her son and the rest of your old team from yesterday. You were glad to see them knowing that they would be okay for this round at least. Then the lady with the crazy eyes started yelling.

“You guys should be thankful, I just saved your lives” she said loudly in the room. I don't think anyone was paying her any attention. You sure weren’t. When the doors unlocked you were let back out in the game room. You almost slipped on some fresh blood on the floor. You felt sick. 

“You okay?” Dae-ho asked again. You shook your head.

“I feel sick I really want to go home Dae-ho” you say as your eyes well up in your eyes. You got back to the platform when Dae-ho engulfed you in a big hug while you cried in his chest.

“I know, I will get you out of here, I will get us out of here.” He responded as he planted kisses on your head. Just as you let from his hug the platform started to move again. 

–

You made it pass the next few rounds with Dae-ho directly at your side. There were 126 people left and Young-il made an observation that the next number would probably be two to have an even 100 players left. If that were true you knew you would be with Dae-ho. The platform spins and after a few go sounds it stops. Two players. Dae-ho grabbed your hand tightly and rushed to a red door. He was moving fast plus his legs were longer so you couldn’t keep up. Almost to the door you slipped on some blood. You fell right on your but and dropped Dae-ho’s hand. 

Because of the pain you stay on the ground for a few seconds not realizing that you only had 9 seconds left to get to Dae-ho’s door. You hear Dae-ho screaming your name. You get up in a pure adrenaline rush and run to the door. It wasn’t too far but it was a possibility that you might not make it. You weren’t an athletic person but you made it to the door just in time to close. When the door locks behind you, you slide to the floor feeling a rush of emotions. You were relieved that you were still alive but scared because you almost died. Dae-ho went to the floor with you. You held him tight to you and his head rested in your neck.

“Y/N, don’t do that again I almost lost you” he said breathlessly while still holding on to you. You guys separated from the hug and your foreheads rested on each other.

“I’m sorry I just slipped on the blood outside and I thought that I was dead for sure.” you said even more out of breath when some tears fell from your cheeks. He used his thumbs to wipe away some of your tears.

“Hey, hey it’s okay i’m right here you’re safe with me” he says as he wipes away more tears. You look him in the eyes. You had never felt this way for another human before. No one on earth has ever made you feel more safe than he did right now. It was a strange feeling.

You looked up at him then his lips. He caught on and looked down at your lips. 

“I know this is a bad time but could i kiss yo-” you cut him off by leaning in and kissing him. The kiss was soft and slow. He went to cup your face with his hands while yours went around his neck. Before it gets too heated you break the kiss and suddenly the doors unlock. You both get up with your cheeks a little red from your mini makeout. When you’re about to leave Dae-ho grabs your hand to keep you from leaving. You turn back to look at him.

“Y/N, I swear to you I will get you out of here” he says with full sincerity in his voice. Your eyes soften at him.

“I know you will. You still owe me a date and some fishes” you say with a smile as you leave the room. He smiles too, following you out the room. He meant every word he said.

You will make it out of here. By any means necessary. Even if it means sacrifice.

[minsu-the-cowardly-human]

The REAL reason why Thanos invested in Myung-Gi's crypto /j

Yeah I'm back on my Squid Game bullshit lol this one...idk. I'm on the fence about shipping these fuckers but I had this idea even before even considering legit shipping them so don't take this too seriously...it's a bit suggestive though. Probably like..13+, nothing is shown just implied. Btw idk if it was said what specific coin or show in the show but I got Myung-gi's name of coin & yt channel from a fanwiki so idk if it's accurate,, edit: also yay it's been a month since s2 of Squid Game came out!! :3

(I realize now this is worded very weirdly? Basically he's saying he promoted the crypto and his audience really came though with buying a shit ton so they're allowing him to become an official affiliate w/them)

[quanruionechancepls]

The Albatross - Chapter 4: Forwards Beckon Rebound

Frontman!Hwang Inho x Host!Reader

For more information, check Masterlist

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

It’s been two years since Inho became your Frontman, a role heavily discussed in meetings between you, Inho, and your dad. It was necessary for Inho to begin work right away due to your dad’s frequent headaches that keep him bedridden for days. For some reason, he refuses to get it checked out, despite persistent persuasion from your brother, leaving you to pick up the pieces while also trying to keep the inexperienced Inho in check.

In reality, you had never done any of the work either, so you had to bullshit your way through. You refused to show any weakness in front of Inho. Inho, ever distant and distrusting, would take any stumble of yours as a sign to rebel. As a result, you spent long nights in your office, barely holding on with your 5 shots of espressos and your hair falling out from stress. You couldn’t even ask your brother for help, as he wanted nothing to do with the Squid Games.

Today was one of the rare days your dad was well enough to get out of bed and actually do some work, not that he did any. He waived all the paperwork off as work he would hand to you to prepare you for your role as the next Host. What a load of bullshit. He was just trying to get out of work. Even so, keeping your curses under your breath and your eyes at the front of your head instead of rolling them back in exasperation, you read, signed, and sifted through the paperwork diligently.

Out of the blue, you received a text.

-

Nerd: Dad wants to host a family dinner today.

Nerd: Be there at 7pm.

You: What’s the special occasion?

Nerd: Celebration of the 31st Squid Games.

Nerd: He invited all the high-ranking staff.

You: Celebration?

You: The Squid Games ended a month ago!

Nerd: Don’t complain to me, this wasn’t my idea.

Nerd: And you already know how dad’s health is.

Nerd: I’m sure he would’ve hosted this sooner if his headaches weren’t so bad.

You: What’s the location?

Nerd: My place.

Nerd: You know how dad’s been living with me for a while now.

You: Okay.

Nerd: Also, I have some of your old stuff to give to you.

Nerd: My mom tried to throw it out when you moved out.

Nerd: You’re lucky I stopped her before she completely trashed it.

You: Okay.

Nerd: See you there. (Read)

-

You sighed, your pen falling onto the desk with a clack as you buried your face in your hands. After the frantic and messy planning of the Squid Games for the past two years, you felt as though you aged 10 years. Looking in the mirror a month later, your dark circles and gaunt cheeks were evidence of the immense stress you were under. In a sense, it was as if you had to present your PhD thesis— except it was every year— and you needed to perfect it everytime.

Peeling yourself out of your chair and walking to the room next door, you knocked twice. “Come in,” you heard from inside, and you opened the door slowly.

“Do you need anything?” Inho asked curtly, not bothering to turn around to face you, intently typing away on his laptop. His exhaustion was evident on his face as well, shown by the stubble on his face.

“There’s going to be a dinner party tonight at 7. Apparently, it’s to celebrate the games.”

The news caused him to face you, his eyebrows slightly scrunched. “It’s been one month since the games have ended, though?”

You shrugged. “Don’t shoot the messenger. My brother only texted me a minute ago. Just clean yourself up a little for tonight.”

It was around 3pm, just enough time for you to take an everything shower, style your hair, apply your makeup, and softly perfume your skin. You sighed as the steam humidified the room as your foot stepped onto the marble floor, wrapping a towel around your body and styling your hair into a blowout style. You couldn’t remember the last time you had the chance to take such a thorough shower.

As you finished your makeup and got dressed, you stared at your perfume collection dauntingly. At times like this, you almost wished you weren’t such a shopaholic, as you really had no idea what to choose. Floral? But you didn’t like pure florals that had no depth. Gourmand? It didn’t seem suitable for a formal dinner full of other rich people. Fruity? You didn’t want to seem too flirty and juvenile at a party your family was attending.

While you contemplated, Inho tapped on your shoulder to get your attention. “What are you thinking so hard about? We have to leave soon,” he pointed to his phone, the time reading 6:30pm. He cleaned himself up nicely, with his stubble completely gone, wearing a navy blue suit, a fancy watch on his wrist, and his hair gelled back.

“I’m wondering what perfume I should wear,” you replied, turning your attention back to your collection.

“Is that really necessary? We’ll be late if we don’t leave in the next five minutes,” he argued, and you noticed he wasn’t wearing any fragrance either. Suddenly, an idea popped into your head.

Reaching for Maison Francis Kurkdijian’s Oud Satin Mood, you took a few steps back and sprayed it on his suit, motioning for him to turn around before spraying again. “It’s not bad,” he commented as he sniffed himself while you sprayed your hair and your chest.

“Let’s go to the car,” you declared as he nodded and followed you.

-

Inho opened the door for you and took your hand as you stepped out of the car, escorting you inside your brother’s penthouse in Gangnam. As soon as you opened the door, you were greeted with Gongyoo’s handsome face and pearly white teeth.

“Saving the best for last, hm?” He teased with outstretched arms, and you giggled as you gave him a brief embrace. His fragrance was nice, some kind of combination of fresh woods and a powdery floral.

Gongyoo led you two to the dinner table, where your dad, brother and stepmom waited for you. The food hadn’t arrived yet, likely out of courtesy because of your lateness as your stepmom gave you an unapproving glare. Oddly enough, your brother stared directly behind you, and when you turned around, you realized he was staring at Inho.

The dinner was pleasant, while very awkward other than your conversation with Gongyoo, who sat right across from you. You never had any problems with the food, as your brother was very picky and thus only hired Michelin star chefs, a true rich kid at heart.

“What did the VIPs think of the people I recruited this year? Were they entertaining to watch?” Gongyoo asked, as if begging for your approval.

You took a small sip of your wine. “I think they enjoyed it. They were quite surprised when Player 075, an old woman, won the game.”

Gongyoo’s eyes widened. “Oh, really? I think this is the first time I’ve heard of someone elderly winning the games. In the past, it was always someone middle-aged or a young person.” He turned to Inho and smiled, “You were a previous winner, yourself. How did you feel about it?”

Inho shifted slightly in his seat and cleared his throat. “It’s all the same to me. I’m only there to watch so I can prevent unfairness.”

Gongyoo threw his head back, laughing. “Looks like you learned from last year’s mistake,” he replied, a hint of a taunt in his voice. Inho’s face hardened as his jaw clenched, his ears blushing slightly.

You patted Inho’s shoulder and smiled at Gongyoo. “Now, now, there’s no need to make the atmosphere so tense. Last year was his first time managing most of the games on his own, after all. There’s always room for improvement.”

“Speaking of improvement, are there any people you particularly want me to recruit? Perhaps someone with a drug addiction? Or maybe someone who’s crazy?” Gongyoo turned his attention back to you. Your brother was having his own side conversation with your stepmom, presumably not wanting to hear about the games.

“Are you trying to make me do your work for you?” Your smile dropped as you set down your fork on the plate, watching as Gongyoo’s expression slowly matched yours, his body stiffening. “I’m kidding! I trust you to recruit the right people. You’ve never failed us after all these years, you know,” you teased, giggling as you made a heart with your index finger and thumb.

He immediately relaxed, sinking into his seat ever-so-slightly as he breathed a sigh of relief. “Don’t scare me like that! I thought you were going to fire me!” He laughed, and you giggled with him.

The dinner ended with you feeling slightly tipsy, having had a few glasses of wine by then. As you and Gongyoo said your goodbyes, your brother pulled you aside. “Follow me, I have something for you.”

As you began tailing him, Inho traced your footsteps like a lost duckling. You followed your brother up a few flights of stairs, finally reaching his office. “There’s a box on my desk with your name on it,” he explained, and you stepped inside. Before Inho could go in, your brother blocked his way with his body and closed the door behind you.

“Hwang Inho, come with me,” he ordered, the two men walking away and leaving you to your own devices.

-

You approached the box cautiously, slowly lifting the lid with a piece of scotch tape and your name written on it off and putting it aside. Your eyes widened as you discovered a photo album, a USB, and a sticky note.

I printed out everything the USB has and put it in the photo album, if you prefer it that way.

Flipping through the photo album, your eyes immediately started tingling and watering when you laid your eyes upon your childhood photos with your mom. Your mom, who you barely had any memories with other than her muffled cries in the washroom when she assumed you were asleep, her constant bemoaning about her lack of money, and her waking up early in the morning and returning late at night after a long day of work. Your meals were eaten alone, consisting of food she prepped at dawn so you wouldn’t go hungry. You rarely ever saw her eat when she came home, instead, she would shower, brush her teeth, and collapse onto the bed.

Even so, you two were happy. She couldn’t afford to buy books for you, so you frequented the local library every week where she borrowed and returned them. Her Korean, as a Chinese immigrant, was also not great, so she had to specifically scrounge through the limited Chinese sections to find books she could read to you at night. Eventually, you ran through all the children’s books, and all that was left was magazines and academic textbooks.

Lowering your head, afraid of ruining your lashes, you let your tears drip directly onto the desk. A part of you wanted to throw the photo album into the fireplace and never think about it again, but another part of you wanted to keep going. There were more memories you’ve surely forgotten. Dinners, birthdays, your first day of school, they were all in this photo album, neatly printed out by your brother.

Fanning your eyes, you flipped the page and stumbled upon a set of unusual photos. You appeared to be around 7, your eyes slightly red and swollen, in the arms of a young, handsome policeman in a police station. In each photo, he smiled brightly. In one, he was wiping your tears off your face. In another, your arms were wrapped tightly around his neck as he appeared to comfort you by patting you on the back.

“Hwang Inho,” you gasped, dropping the photo album as the memories flooded into your brain.

-

You sat on the bench, your little legs swinging as they hovered over the ground, staring down at your frilly pink dress. Families, couples, and elderly folks passed you by as you sniffled, none of them paying you any mind. You were supposed to finally have a chance to play outside with your mom, to go to the park with her instead of running boring errands like groceries.

With your emotions too overwhelming to feel any shame, you sobbed on the bench, wiping your tears with the back of your sleeve. You weren’t sure how long you'd been sitting there for, but your stomach began growling with hunger, and a disheveled man with long hair and an unkempt beard stared at you in a way that made you want to run away and hide behind your mom— if she was here.

You had no idea how you even managed to lose her. One minute, your mom was buying you a crepe at a local food truck while you eyed a stray cat, and the next, you followed the cat behind a bush and ended up on a completely different path.

Footsteps approached you, and for a moment, you stopped crying, cautiously lowering your hands from your face as you lifted your head. You were fully expecting to get kidnapped by that weird man, but instead, you were met with a policeman, who crouched down to make eye contact with you.

“What are you doing here alone, hm? Where are your parents?” He asked with a gentle smile, cocking his head in curiosity.

Your waterworks immediately started up again. “Mr. Police… please help me..” you cried in Mandarin, reaching for his sleeve.

Taking out a tissue from one of his pockets, he began wiping your face, bringing it to your nose so you could blow it. “I’m sorry, I can’t speak Chinese. Can you speak Korean?” He asked, speaking a little slower this time. “I really hope you’re not a foreigner, because that’s gonna make this really complicated…” he mumbled under his breath.

“I can’t find my mom,” you instantly switched languages, speaking in perfect Korean, and his eyes widened a little.

“Oh, I guess that answers my question.” He chuckled to himself. “What’s your name?” He asked, and you pouted.

“I don’t like my Korean name. No one calls me by it anyways.”

“Even so, I still need your name,” he reasoned, and you shook your head stubbornly. He sighed and gave in. “Still, you’re lucky I found you. It’s dangerous for a kid to be alone in a park,” he stood up, holding his hand out for you. You took his hand and began walking with him, not sure where he was going to take you.

“I’m technically on break right now, so I can go wherever. Are you hungry?” He asked, and you nodded timidly. “What would you like to eat?”

You weren’t really sure, as your meals were primarily cooked by your mom, and as a result, you didn’t have a taste for Korean food. “I want dim sum.”

“Dim sum? I don’t know if there are any places like that nearby. If I can’t find any, do you mind having kimchi instead?” The police officer appeared a little stressed at your request.

“Okay. I like kimchi,” you agreed, and he sighed in relief.

“Oh, by the way, my name is Hwang Inho,” he declared, forgetting to introduce himself earlier.

You left the park with him, your hand in his as he strolled along a busy street, searching for a Chinese restaurant. You walked for around two blocks before he paused and crouched down again. “Sorry, I don’t think there’s any dim sum here. I’ll get you some kimchi, okay?” You nodded.

Sitting down at a restaurant, he studied you as you ate your kimchi, helping you wipe your cheek when you got messy. Being a kid, you could only eat so much, and once you decided you were full, Inho finished the rest of the meal for you. Checking the time, he smiled at you as he paid for your meal. “I still have some time left. Do you want a popsicle?”

“Yes!” You cheered, and he walked you to a convenience store to pick one out. You didn’t really have the luxury to have ice cream or any sweet treats, so you didn’t know which ones tasted good. “I don’t know which to choose,” you admitted to him.

He bent down, scanning the ice cream for you. “What about Haagen-Dazs vanilla?” He asked, and you nodded. You didn’t hate vanilla, but you didn’t find it particularly interesting. Your mom drilled the idea of being grateful into you, so you didn’t peep a word as he bought a mini tub of vanilla ice cream and opened it for you.

“Thank you,” you whispered as you began eating, watching him check the time again.

Out of the blue, he lifted you up into his arms. “My break is nearly over, I’ll drop you off at the police station, okay?”

You hesitantly nodded as you continued eating, trying to finish it before it completely melted, your body swaying with every step he took. The police station wasn’t very far away, and he called over his superior, telling him about your situation.

“Little girl, you can stay here with us for as long as you need. We’ll figure out how to find your mom, okay?” Another police officer told you, and you backed away, hiding behind Inho. He was much older than Inho, burlier too. He looked like he could kill you with one swing.

Inho nervously chuckled as you clung onto his pants, your ice cream long gone and thrown away. He bent down to meet your eyes. “My break is over. I have to go back to work. My coworkers will take good care of you, okay?” He reassured, but something inside you was screaming at you to not let him leave.

So, you pulled out the best weapon you had: your tears. Your eyes watered as your tears dribbled down your cheeks, your nose and eyes equally prickly. Inho wiped your tears away and pulled you in for a hug, but when he tried pulling away, you clung onto his jacket like your life depended on it.

“Inho… don’t leave me…” you cried into him, and you could tell it was working with the way he pulled you in tighter and patted your back, lifting you up and swaying you as if you were a baby.

Over your shoulder, Inho glanced at his superior helplessly. His superior sighed loudly. “Stay here, we’ll send someone to cover you. If we let you leave, she might scream our ears off. You know how some kids are.”

“Understood,” Inho responded as you buried your face into his shoulder, smiling to yourself in victory. When your sniffles quieted down, Inho walked to a chair and sat down, placing you on his lap.

“Do you know your home phone number?” He asked, and you shook your head. This was a time where people mostly used home phones and landlines. You did have one at home, but your mom bought it for cheap and it wasn’t effective most of the time, so it ended up being another item she hoarded. Either way, you didn’t know the number even if it was in use.

Inho sighed and sunk into his chair, holding you steady with his arm. “How am I going to find your mom if you don’t know anything, hm?” He teased, gently flicking your forehead.

After an unknown period of time, Inho must’ve gotten bored with staring at the wall, because he carried you into his arms and jumped off the chair, walking around the police station searching for something. “What are you looking for?” You asked curiously.

“Hair ties. Maybe I can try styling your hair to make this waiting less boring.” Of course, in a male-dominated job field like being a police officer, there were no hair ties in sight. It’s not like any of the officers needed any in the first place.

“I don’t think you’ll find any,” you said while Inho was digging through a pile of pens in a drawer. Many of the other officers were starting to side eye him due to all his shuffling, although you assumed they refrained from yelling at him because they didn’t want you to start crying.

“Well, it was worth a shot,” he mumbled dejectedly, sitting back down on a chair.

It seemed Inho was quite eager to keep you entertained, even with his lack of resources. At first, it started with simple hand games like rock, paper, scissors. When that became boring, he grabbed a pen and a scrap piece of paper to play tic-tac-toe on. Eventually, it turned into the two of you drawing together, albeit very poorly. Inho was certainly not made to be an artist.

When the sun slipped into the shadows and the moon illuminated the night sky, many of the officers began packing up to return home. There were obviously officers that patrolled the streets at night, but Inho worked the day shift, so he needed to go home too. Your collective anxiety seeped through the floors and walls of the police station. You hadn’t provided any useful information, refusing to even give your name, and it was practically impossible for ordinary police to help you find your way home if you didn’t cooperate.

You sat on a bench as Inho hung up his police jacket in the locker room. “Hey Inho! What’s with this kid? You have a secret love child or something?” One of the officers teased, wrapping his arm around Inho’s neck and playfully squeezing.

“Of course not!” Inho laughed while he struggled out of his grip, “I found her alone at a park.”

“And she’s still here? Her parents haven’t come to fetch her yet?”

“It’s kind of a complicated situation. She hasn’t told us anything, so I don’t know if we can even find her parents,” Inho explained, and your bottom lip began to quiver at the idea of never seeing your mom again. Noticing the tears welling up in your eyes, Inho rushed to comfort you. “Wait, don’t cry! We’ll find your parents, I promise.”

As the rest of the officers clocked out and left, you were left alone with Inho. He sat down beside you, gently patting your head and running his hand through your ebony hair. “You know, I have a little brother at home. He’s around your age, maybe a year or two older than you,” he hesitated, trying to find a way to put his thoughts into words. “What I’m trying to say is… if you can’t find your way home, I’m happy to bring you home and let you into my family. I think it would be nice to have a little sister.”

Before you could respond, Inho’s superior bursted into the locker room. “Hwang Inho, come out with the girl! Her brother is here to pick her up!” He claimed, and Inho immediately scooped you into his arms and ran out the door.

A young man with square glasses, voluminous hair styled into a middle part, wearing a white blouse and a grey vest greeted you. He had a camera hung around his neck. At the time, you didn’t know he was actually related to you— you only knew him from his frequent visits to your apartment claiming to be your mom’s family friend. Even so, a wave of relief washed over you as you finally saw someone you recognized.

“Youngil!” You called out to him as tears streamed down your face, and he held his arms out so Inho could pass you over to him. He rocked you side-to-side as he held you tight, sighing.

“What’s your name?” He turned to Inho, who was probably relieved he wouldn’t have to actually take you home.

“Hwang Inho. It’s nice to meet you,” he replied, shaking your brother’s hand.

“I’m Oh Youngil. Can you write down your name somewhere for me?” It was an unusual request, but Inho scribbled his name on a piece of paper and passed it to Youngil, who folded it and shoved it in his pocket. “Thank you for finding her.”

“Oh, no, of course! It’s my job as a police officer to protect civilians! I think she would’ve been kidnapped if I didn’t find her when I did. She’s a very cute girl,” Inho sputtered, his ears blushing from embarrassment.

“You’re a good police officer, Inho. I’m glad you found her in time,” Youngil praised before he turned to you. “Why don’t you say goodbye to Inho? Your mom is waiting for you.”

You were a bit hesitant, your hands reaching out for Inho so he could pull you in for another hug. Behind you, your brother’s camera shuttered and flashed. “I hope you don’t mind. I’m taking these pictures to show to her as a keepsake in the future.”

Inho laughed. “Yes, of course,” smiling at the camera before wiping your tears with his thumb motioning for you to turn around. You resisted the urge to blink every time the flash hit your eyes. You got in a lot of trouble for doing that during picture day, so you learned your lesson.

You waved one last goodbye to Inho as Youngil carried you out of the police station and into a fancy car. Sitting in the back, he gave the driver the location of your apartment, and 15 minutes later, you found yourself knocking on the door, waiting for your mom to answer.

On the other side, you heard frantic shuffling and stumbling, and your mom practically burst the door open as she heard the knock. Her eyes were bloodshot from crying, as she wrapped you into her arms and kissed you all over your face. “Thank you, Youngil, truly. I don’t know how I can repay you for this,” she bowed deeply to him, still holding you tightly in her arms.

“There’s no need to thank me,” Youngil replied before waving goodbye to you, your mom closing the door as she escorted you to the dinner table where a feast waited for you.

-

Inho sat uncomfortably on a velvet couch as your brother popped open a bottle of wine, pouring a hefty amount into two cups. Your brother pushed one closer to Inho as he took a sip. “I think it’s time we have a talk, Hwang Inho.”

Inho gulped, straightening his posture to appear taller. “What is there for us to talk about?”

Your brother laughed, although it didn’t sound very sincere. “You don’t recognize me?”

Now, Inho was truly confused. First, he’s forced to attend a dinner party full of snobby rich people, sitting through an hour of subtle insults from that smug son of a bitch, Gongyoo. When the dinner was over, he followed you thinking that if he helped you finish your business quicker, the two of you could go home and he could collapse onto his bed. Finally, this CEO of a chaebol empire is holding him hostage in an unfamiliar building, spewing bullshit he doesn’t have a clue about.

Squinting his eyes, he noticed that in between the slight weight gain and the wrinkles on his face, your brother did seem familiar somehow. He couldn’t quite put his finger on it, but he was positive he met him somewhere. “No, I have no idea what you’re talking about,” he admitted after a moment of contemplation.

“Oh Youngil. Does that name ring a bell?”

Inho’s eyes widened immediately, and his mind was flooded with memories of that one peculiar day he found a young girl sitting on a bench in a park. While she was an adorable kid, he couldn’t deny that her stubbornness made his job way more difficult than it should’ve been. At one point, he genuinely started to worry about how he would support his stepmom, Junho, and a new little girl he added to the family all at once.

“You’re the older brother of that little girl who got lost right?” Inho recalled, snapping his fingers. “I never got her name because she refused to tell me.”

“Yes,” Youngil paused for a moment, “Was the money I gave you not enough?”

Confusion returned to Inho’s features. “Money?”

“I gave you 50 million won a few days after you found her. Surely, you would’ve seen it in your bank account.”

Inho recalled that month when he went to the bank to deposit his paycheck, his jaw dropping when 50 million won miraculously appeared out of thin air. He nearly turned himself in for committing fraud, although he wasn’t even sure what kind of scheme he found himself in. The only thing he knew was that the large sum of money sitting in his bank was far from natural.

“That was from you?! I thought I somehow committed fraud!” Inho exclaimed, his hands flying to his face as Youngil casually took another sip from his wine.

“Yes. It was your reward for finding my sister,” Youngil explained, "Was it not enough?”

Inho lowered his gaze, grabbing his glass and taking a large sip of wine. It was shameful to admit that such a large sum of money didn’t at all cure his financial woes. At the time, he had just graduated from university, wracking up a ton of student debt. Junho was still young, and needed his financial support on top of paying for tutors to help him keep up in class. The 50 million won disappeared within 3 months.

“No, it wasn’t. I had a lot of student debt and I needed to hire tutors for my younger brother,” Inho admitted quietly, refusing to meet Youngil’s eyes.

“You know, after you saved my sister, I truly wished you well. I hoped that you would live the rest of your life as a crime-fighting police officer, dedicated to protecting citizens, like you told me that day,” Youngil paused to drink out of his glass, “I never would’ve imagined you’d end up getting sucked into this kind of life.”

Inho balled up his fist and clenched his jaw at Youngil’s words as he slowly raised his head to make eye contact. “I don’t want this life either, but I didn’t have a choice. My wife was sick and I needed quick money. Who would’ve known that even after I won the Squid Games, there were still VIPs chasing after me, wanting to take a bite out of me for entertainment? My only options were to become the Frontman or fall victim to the VIPs.”

“I am aware. I looked into you after I heard my dad mention your name in a conversation.”

Inho stood up, slamming his hands on the table as his glass toppled over, the burgundy contents splattering all over the table, some dripping onto his leather shoes. “What’s the point of you bringing me here, then? To mock me? To show how much power you hold over me?”

Youngil calmly shook his head, unafraid of Inho’s bravado. “No. I simply want you to stay away from my sister.”

“What? I haven’t seen your sister since that day.”

Youngil sighed, chugging the remainder of his wine. “Seriously? Saying that after you tried to follow her into my office like a lost puppy?” He stood up to refill it to about a quarter of the entire glass.

Inho flopped back into the couch, feeling like the stupidest person alive. He followed you into your family dinner, sitting silently as he observed them interacting with each other for an hour, and then having a conversation with your brother about a past encounter you had. And the whole time, he still didn’t connect the dots!

After he was done wallowing in his self loathing, he straightened his posture again. “I’m afraid I can’t do that. I work directly beside her. Our roles require us to interact with each other frequently,” he replied, leaving out your conditions. He wasn’t about to tell the whole world that you made him your fucktoy— if it wasn’t necessary.

“Then keep your distance emotionally.”

Youngil’s insistence was odd. Inho knew he couldn’t fully listen to him because you would catch on quickly and throw a fit, but his stubbornness did stir up some curiosity in him. “Why do you want me to stay away from her?”

Youngil stood up again, grabbed another glass, refilled it with wine for Inho, then handed it to him. “I don’t want you to get into a relationship with her.”

Inho scoffed loudly at his words. Relationship? He’d rather drop dead tomorrow than get into a relationship with a woman nearly 20 years his junior, especially now that he knew he previously met her when she was a kid. “What kind of degenerate do you think I am? I’m not interested in the slightest.”

“Inho, did you know that proximity affects the type of person you will marry? This means that the more often you see them, the more likely you are to like them because familiarity breeds affection,” Youngil smugly revealed while swishing around the burgundy liquid in his glass. “Why do you think people marry their coworkers and classmates? It’s because of proximity and familiarity.”

He walked towards Inho, leaning close enough for Inho to make out every pore. “Now, guess who has the closest proximity to my sister?” He questioned, sliding out Inho’s tie and tugging it.

“That doesn’t mean anything,” Inho denied, “Our relationship is purely work. There’s no room for emotions.” At least, he didn’t have any room for emotions.

“You say that now, but who knows when you’ll change your mind? My sister is a charismatic woman, she knows how to get men wrapped around her finger,” Youngil let go of Inho’s tie and walked back to the couch behind him. “Inho, you can’t fool me. I already know you have something going on with my sister.”

“I’m not going to. I still love my wife,” Inho declared through gritted teeth. “And there’s nothing going on. Nothing will ever happen.”

“Well, now that you mention it, that’s another reason why I want you to keep your distance. I don’t want my sister to marry someone who can’t love her fully. Someone like her isn’t meant to be another person’s replacement— she’s meant to be the original.”

If Inho was even a tiny bit more immature, he would’ve pummelled this guy on the spot. A man who’s never had to work hard a day in his life, insulting his wife and implying that she’s nothing compared to his younger sister, who he mistakenly thinks will end up marrying him. It all sounded preposterous.

Instead, all he could do was silently fume as his face flushed red with anger, gripping the fabric of his pants hard enough to wrinkle them. “This conversation is pointless. You’re talking purely out of speculation and fiction.”

Youngil laughed. “Perhaps I am. Perhaps all my worries are for naught, and nothing will happen. In fact, you could even completely ignore everything I said today. I don’t have anything to offer you that you don’t already have, so my words are simply a request, not a demand.”

Inho grabbed the glass of wine Youngil refilled for him, tipping his head back and raising it to his lips, drinking all the contents in one gulp. He set it down into the table with a loud clack as he wiped off the remaining liquid dribbling down his chin. “Are we done here?”

Youngil did the same. “I’ll lead you back to my office.”

-

You sighed as you closed the photo album, covering the box with the lid and sliding down a wall you didn’t realize you were leaning against. All you wanted to do was lay down and sleep it off, hoping that everything was a dream and you would go back to your daily life the next morning. You didn’t know how you could face Inho after seeing his younger self in your photo album.

Out of the blue, someone knocked on the door. Grabbing the box, you opened the door and stepped outside. “Have you had enough time to flip through it?” Youngil asked.

“Too much time, actually,” you grumbled. You didn’t even want to think about how you looked after that crying session.

“Let’s go, it’s nearly 9pm,” Inho held out his hand for you, which you took hesitantly as he carried the box from your hands and escorted you out of your brother’s penthouse.

You were staring out the window of the car in a daze when Inho’s voice snapped you back to reality. “Your eyes are red,” he pointed out, rubbing the corners of your puffy eyes.

“And you seem like you drank more than usual,” you snapped, turning around to ignore him.

“Why are you avoiding me?”

“I’m not.”

“You haven’t looked at me for the past ten minutes. You’re very obviously avoiding me.”

“You’re imagining it.”

Grabbing you by your chin, he forced your face to turn around and face him. The stark contrast between his past and present self almost made them seem like entirely different people. Other than the wrinkles that showed his age, his entire demeanor had shifted. The glimmer in his eyes vanished, replaced by an endless black void of nothingness. His touch no longer felt like gentle caresses, but rather commanding imprints. Even his hair, which was once carelessly tousled back by his hand, was now meticulously gelled back, not a single strand out of place.

Even during his time as a participant in the Squid Games, you swore you still saw a fire in him, something courageous and full of hope. There was an innocence in him that hadn’t been corrupted no matter how horrible life was, a part of him that still believed in the good of others. It was unwavering and untouchable, something even the games themselves couldn’t change.

Until he met you.

You were the serpent, slithering away in the background and scheming for his downfall. You placed the apple in his hands and forced him to take a bite, giving him all the power, glory, and money he could ever need, but for what? All you did was rip the wings off his back, causing him to fall from grace before dragging him to the depths below. You managed to corrupt the purest of them all.

You had thoroughly ruined this man.

How could you do such a thing to someone who'd treated you with such kindness— someone who saved your life? Would you be sitting here in this car with him if he hadn't found you that day? Or would your 7 year old corpse be discovered in a river?

Your lip quivered as tears streamed down your face, his grip firm on your chin even as you attempted to struggle out of his hands. Finally, he sighed, enveloping his arms around you as you sobbed into his chest.

“Were the contents of that box that bad?” He asked as he played with your hair. You could only gasp for air in between the cascades of sadness that washed over you, your nails digging into his chest with how hard you were hanging onto him.

When you arrived home, Inho had the driver help carry your belongings upstairs as you remained in his arms, tipping him generously as you watched him drive away. Setting you down a chair, he bent down to remove your heels, placing them back on the shoe rack before removing his own. The entire time, your eyes remained glassy as tears continued to well in your eyes. You didn’t have much room for anything other than crying.

Inho carried you onto the couch, placing you on his lap as he wiped your tears away. He pushed your head closer to his as he leaned down for a kiss, his lips melting into yours without hesitation after the many long nights you’ve spent together. You entertained him, wishing for anything that could possibly distract you from the knot forming in your stomach, but you pulled away as his hands ghosted away from your face, down to your breasts and ass.

“Not tonight. I’m not in the mood for it,” you dismissed, about to get off him as he tightened his grip on you.

“I won’t go further than this,” he promised as his lips found yours again, your body instinctively turning towards him as you wrapped your arms around his neck.

The rest of the night was a blur, with some more wine poured and drank as you two continued to make out on the couch, only pausing in between sips. It was some sick, lustful way of giving each other some much needed comfort after a stressful time.

You were drowning in emotions unfamiliar to you, your head surfacing momentarily during kisses before you were dragged down again, bubbles of oxygen forming at your lips as you gasped for breath in the water. But if you were going down, Inho would come with you.

If you went down, then you’d go down together.

[selenepsyche]

Who is Kitana? | The Rogue of Astrology

MASTERLIST | KOFI (DONATIONS) | INSTAGRAM

This is my official introduction post about myself and this blog. So greetings, I go by Kitana, also known as @selenepsyche. Kitana isn't my real name of course, but it's what I want to go by. It's inspired by my favorite TWD character, Michonne. I am currently 20. My birthday is December 8th! I was born and raised in Louisiana. I'm an African American woman, whom is also bisexual. If that still makes you uncomfortable in 2025, then exit my page.

Learning Tarot and Astrology

I've been studying astrology since I was 16 or 17, and I've been into Spirituality and Tarot since I was 15. Getting into spirituality changed my life. It helped open my mind and soul up to my psychic abilities and help re-establish my confidence. Of course, I've had many ups and downs since then, as part of spiritual journeys. I've dealt with shitty and fake friends, shitty relationships, serious mental health declines. But I have bounced back every time and learned the lessons.

My Other Passions

Apart from astrology, I have a serious passion for music. I live and breathe music. I can't live without it. I was even thinking about becoming a musician one day, maybe it could happen, maybe not. I just don't know if I wanna deal with being famous for that, knowing how weird and evil the industry is. As you can see from some of my posts and pfp, K-pop is one of my favorite genres (even though I just got back into it this year). I love all types of music except country. Some of my favorite artists are:

Queen | Amy Winehouse | Caroline Polachek | BTS | BigBang | Victoria Monet | Karol G | Paloma Mami | Bad Bunny | Aespa | Shinee | Bad Gyal | Nathy Peluso | Anitta | Sabrina Carpenter | ABBA | Prince | Elton John | Tears For Fears | Wham! | Selena | Kali Uchis

I also love cooking and baking! I have been doing it since I was 13 or 14. I'm self taught, naturally talented (not to brag). I love playing video games as well, such as Cyberpunk 2077, GTA V, Fall Guys, Red Dead Redemption 2, WWE 2K, Roblox, InZoi, The Sims 4, etc. Open world games are my absolute favorite.

As you can see, the cyberpunk/futuristic aesthetic is a major apart of my blog. I just love the way it looks and the game, Cyberpunk 2077, is my favorite game of all time. I guess it's officially part of me, so much to wear I plan on getting cybersigilism tattoos in the future and dying my hair.

For other random facts, I'm great at video editing and drawing. My favorite movies of all time are Inception and Interstellar. I especially love musical and action movies. I absolutely love professional wrestling. My favorite female wrestler right now is Naomi. My favorite tv show of all time is The Walking Dead. But I also love Stranger Things, Squid Game, The Good Place, La Reina Del Sur, The Umbrella Academy, and Interview With a Vampire!

What Does "Rogue" Stand For?

In my bio, I call myself "The Rogue of Astrology". I'm explaining why because I don't want people to get confused since there are multiple definitions to the word "rogue". Some people describe a rogue as a dishonest person, or someone who's fun or mischievous, or as a person who is rebellious and follows their own rules.

When I call myself this, I mean it to say that I am outspoken, speak my mind, and write what the fuck I wanna write without sugarcoating anything. Of course I use astrology to help people, but to also call out bullshit when necessary and share my knowledge and theories. (And maybe I also chose it to lean further into my cyberpunk theme lol).

I will always remain as respectful as possible. I swear I'm not mean lol, just passionate about what I do.

Why I Created This Blog

I created this blog for two main reasons: to build a platform with a community I love, and help others' heal while educating them. I'd want the same for me, which is why all of y'all's support means the world to me. I also want to build a community that will be full of positivity! I am grateful for my mutuals as well!

I know what it's like to not have anyone to depend on or simply talk to. Of course I've made friends, but most of them were toxic and backstabbing. It's even harder when both of your parents are toxic too. But I'm strong and smart, you all are too. We can achieve anything. We won't let anything or anyone hold us back. Anything is possible with the right plan.

With that being said, thank you all for reading this! I hope I didn't forget anything, but if I did I'll just edit it later. I love you all a great deal!

dividers: @cafekitsune pictures: Pinterest

(i shouldn't have to put a copyright on this. you're weird if you steal it.)

[vanilla-phantoms]

Tagged by @baronetcoins in 'ten people I'd like to get to know better!' - yay for tag games

last song - One More Light by Linkin Park. this one is because it's on my new Jacobi playlist for Maxwell's death

last book - The Price of the Phoenix by Sondra Marshak. The infamously gay Star Trek book

last movie - Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Not as good as the first one

last tv show - Squid Game season 2. Surprisingly good, I was worried it would just feel like a cash grab

last thing I searched - When2meet dot com. Scheduling a meeting for the bartending society that I am vice president of

favorite color - Purple

sweet/savory/spicy - Savory. I eat so much salt that people joke I am trying to desiccate myself. My blood pressure is great though

relationship status - Polyamorous and in a relationship with one partner currently

looking forward to - My Chemical Romance concert in august

current obsession - I'm back on my wolf 359 bullshit. proof that hyper fixations never truly go away they just go dormant

Tagging, should you wish to play: @nammikisulora @slateblueflowers @catboykepler @moreweightamongplanes @dopaminerjic @aro-oak

[fast-moon]

DS9 Season 2 Thoughts

I've made it through the second season of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine after missing out on it during its original run due to being too young to understand it at the time. Let's see how it holds up now!

1. The Homecoming: Kira goes to rescue a Bajoran prisoner who she hopes can unify the planet, but it turns out all the legends about him are just that, and he's just some guy who's not up to the task. But Sisko knows how religious people work, and insists he play the part anyway, since they won't be bothered about whether any claims about him are real or not.

2. The Circle: The plot continues to be too real as a government official conspires with the leader of a small but vocal conservative religious sect to use terrorism to overthrow the government and install themselves. Even the more liberal religious leader still has naughty fantasies.

3. The Siege: The three-parter misses the landing by naively believing that religious extremists attempting to overthrow the government would actually reconsider if shown proof that they're secretly being funded by an enemy power who wants to use them to destabilize the country.

4. Invasive Procedures: Okay, seriously, is Dax just utterly emotionally dissociated from her current body? She shrugs off constant sexual harassment and objectification, she was indifferent about being executed for a crime she didn't commit, she didn't treat Bashir's sexualized replica of her as any kind of violation, and now she's like, "Welp, this guy wants my liver squid. Oh well, bye, guys." Also, I get that Quark's an entertaining POS, but there are certain things he's done that he really should be facing consequences for.

5. Cardassians: Our fabulous Cardassian tailor returns! I'm not sure how I feel about sending the kid back with his bio dad, but if it had ended with him staying with his adoptive family, I'm not sure how I would have felt about that, either. It was a crap situation for that poor kid either way.

6. Melora: The station crew trip over themselves trying to improve the accessibility of the station for a new special needs crew member. Gosh, if only they were that worried about its accessibility for their permanent crew member who still has to contort himself into unnatural shapes on a daily basis in order to utilize its systems. #JusticeForOdo

7. Rules of Acquisition: Quark's new business partner starts hitting on him. His partner then turns out to be a woman, which actually ends up making it even more scandalous.

8. Necessary Evil: Oh, cool, a film noir episode that shows what the station was like under Cardassian rule. Quark finally gets some comeuppance but is saved by plot armor. Odo explores his inner Columbo. He was also apparently a lab subject and then a sideshow attraction before Gul Dukat hired him as security, so good lord, someone give this poor slime a break.

9. Second Sight: A woman in an unhappy marriage literally dreams up a self-insert OC to pair with Sisko.

10. Sanctuary: An entire nation of refugees comes through the wormhole and demands to settle on Bajor because it's their holy promised land. They get denied, then get pissy because one deeply religious group annexing territory from another deeply religious group and then having to live side-by-side has historically worked out so well in the past.

11. Rivals: Prince Humperdinck brings aboard a gatcha game that breaks the universe's RNG.

12. The Alternate: It's finally Odo's turn to get infected with the crazypox that he usually has to save everyone else from. Although, even without the crazypox as an excuse, I think he's earned the right to throw a violent temper tantrum after all the bullshit he's had to put up with. Also, "Wasn't that pillar over here before?" "It was in my way; I had it moved." is living rent-free in my brain due to how deliberate the inclusion of this exchange was yet how utterly pointless it ended up being. A red herring is one thing, but the entire pillar subplot simply vanished entirely following this scene and it left me so confused.

13. Armageddon Game: Aliens gift Sisko a deepfake video of how they would have killed O'Brien and Bashir if they were actually halfway competent about it.

14. Whispers: O'Brien becomes paranoid that everyone is conspiring against him, and it turns out he's right. Nice subtle touch to having him repeatedly order coffee throughout the episode, since his coffee habits in the previous episode were what initially clued them in that he was a fake.

15. Paradise: Sisko: "Excuse me, are y'all with the cult?" Alixus: "We're not a cult, we're an isolated commune that rejects technology and--" Sisko: "Yeah, this is it."

16. Shadowplay: Odo and Dax figure out everyone in the village is a hologram because the episode title gave it away. Also, I really hope that Odo remains aro-ace and the rest of the crew come to respect that, instead of constantly teasing him about his lack of a sex life and ultimately forcing him into thinking he needs a relationship to be happy. He already has to contort himself into uncomfortable shapes to conform. Don't force him to contort into conformity any further. #JusticeForOdo

17. Playing God: Huh. So there are rats on space stations. Also, Dax discovers a potentially universe-destroying proto-universe and decides to dump it in the Gamma Quadrant for them to deal with.

18. Profit and Loss: Quark teaches us that when a woman says "no", she really means "yes" if you hound and threaten her long enough.

19. Blood Oath: Curzon Dax continues to posthumously make me question Sisko's choice in friends, as Jadzia Dax now feels obligated to attend a Klingon murder party that Curzon RSVP'd to.

20-21. The Maquis: Humans set up colonies next to a known bear cave, whine that the Federation won't protect them from the bears, start an anti-bear movement.

22. The Wire: Bashir goes into a panic after his boyfriend ODs. Honestly, Bashir really needs to stop chasing women and recognize he has way more chemistry with Garak. He's always been annoyingly shallow and self-serving to the point that I wouldn't trust him as a doctor no matter how skilled he was. But this episode actually let him give a damn about someone without objectifying them, which is good progress. Hopefully it sticks. Also, Sisko's proclamation to keep Quark locked up "forever" in the previous episode didn't seem to last very long. But at least now I know where the "Especially the lies" meme comes from!

23. Crossover: Bashir learned nothing from the previous episode and goes right back to womanizing and talking incessantly about himself. Damn. Kira's meets her mirror universe counterpart who instantly falls in love with her, which... same.

24. The Collaborator: The liberals lose the election because they're more concerned with their candidate being 100% unproblematic than preventing the entire planet from falling under the rule of a goddamn religious tyrant. (throws table in a fit of "this is too real")

25. Tribunal: O'Brien goes on vacation to Planet Kangaroo Court, which is actually a bit more relaxing than what he usually has to put up with.

26. The Jem'Hadar: are truly truly truly outrageous. And really want to meet a Klingon, and I know we're getting Worf eventually because he's on the series splash screen. But until then, bring on the Dominion!

I found Season 2 generally a bit better than Season 1. I was really uncomfortable with Bashir in Season 1, and he was a bit more tolerable in Season 2. Downright redeemed in "The Wire", then he regressed immediately in the next episode, so I still have a fairly low opinion of him. Dax is another character I'm having trouble caring about since even after two seasons I still have no clear idea of "What would Dax do?" in any hypothetical situation.

Like, if a bunch of monkeys got loose on the station, I can imagine that Sisko would order a containment field and then go monkey-hunting with Kira, who would spend the whole time exasperated like, "Really?! Monkeys?!" O'Brien would technobabble together a monkey trap while grumbling about how this sort of thing always happens to him, Bashir would tell a long-winded story about how there was a similar incident with Emus back at the academy and how much of an adventure it was and he ended up saving the day and then a bunch of women were swooning all over him, Quark would stash a couple of monkeys away to sell later, and Odo would have grumpily already rounded them all up because he's the only competent crew member (and relieving Quark of his monkey stash). And Dax would just... kind of stand there I guess. Maybe quip about how one of her previous incarnations had a monkey. But she just doesn't have enough of a notable personality for me to go, "Yep, that's a Dax thing to do, all right." So far she still feels uncomfortably like a fetish character with little actual substance.

Also, the depiction of the Universal Translator analyzing a new language in "Sanctuary" made me even more perplexed as to how it even works. So, they started out speaking an unknown language, and over the course of the episode, the UT learned it and started translating it. Okay, cool. Except that implies that the aliens -- and probably everyone on the station -- are all actually still speaking their native languages and the UT is just real-time translating them all. But how does this work in a conversation? If Sisko speaks to Kira and Quark, how do they both hear something they can understand? Where even is the UT? They'll beam down to a planet and lose all their equipment but can still communicate with everyone fine. And how does the UT know to stop translating, like when someone will yell in Klingon for one sentence and then switch back to English?

I wonder if there's ever an episode where the Universal Translator malfunctions and everyone has to figure out how to communicate with each other. Heck, might be an opportunity for Dax to actually do something since she's the one most likely to be a polyglot.

Anyway, on to Season 3!