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boydepartment · 1 year ago

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Masks Off? - Jake Sim x Idol! Reader

Description: You are part of Hybe's new girl group. You loved your job dearly but it was always nice to have your days off where you can be yourself. On one of your days off you run into this guy. He makes you feel like yourself without the idol pressures. As everything starts getting stressful, what are you going to do when you find out the guy you're in love with is also an idol? Let alone your coworker?

warnings- fluff, SLIGHT angst, crack wc- 10.1k

MASTERLIST

“Y/n?” The leader of your group peaked in the bathroom where you were washing up, you hummed with a toothbrush in your mouth.

“Are you going out today? Felicity wants to do her vlog today.” Kim spoke, now leaning against the doorway. You spit and grabbed the mouthwash.

“Yeah, I have to run errands, does she need me for her vlog?” You asked, really hoping that you didn’t have to help, no offense.

Kim shook her head no, “nope, she has Jade helping her.” You nodded and Kim went back out to tell Felicity the news.

With your job you don’t get a lot of days off, for the most part you work, sleep, eat, and repeat. While sometimes getting your privacy invaded. It doesn’t sound very appealing to most, but you love it. You loved being a part of the Hybe girl group- Pastel Road. Especially because you can spoil your family members with gifts that will mean something to them. So, on this day off you found yourself going to a comic book shop. You had done research on this specific shop; it looked like it was your best chance to find this rare Spiderman comic book that was just so perfect for your dad’s birthday. You grew up with your dad collecting comics, video games, movies, anything “nerdy” and you grew up around it. You even started collecting stuff in your corner of the dorm aswell. You are very proud to say that you splurged on the Lego Bowser and a couple signed photos from different Marvel movies.

What? You worked hard- you deserved it!

Taking a breath, you got dressed, recently Hybe had your hair dyed so it was sort of kind of REALLY damaged, so a hat was placed on your head. Slipping on your sandals and mask you headed out. Today you didn’t want to have a camera in your face, so you made sure to wear ‘normal?’ clothes. Smiling under your mask, you headed out. You were thrilled to go to this comic book shop, having looked forward to it forever. Preparing for this comeback took a lot of work.

As you walked down the street, you made sure to stop by a little coffee shop to get a pick me up. It was your favorite shop to go to with Kim, even predebut. You smiled at the memories then headed out again. Headphones on, music blaring, feeling normal.

When you got to the shop, safe to say you were really overwhelmed by how much stuff you liked was displayed. Figures, posters, even clothes! You were in Heaven! To make sure you don’t spend too much money you went to the comic book section. You saw whispers online that they had it. When you turned the corner you saw it, cased in glass, shining like pure gold. This was it, the perfect gift for your dad. As you went to grab it someone else did too. He was taller than you, wearing a hat and a mask aswell.

“I’m sorry!” You both said at the same time.

“You can have it…” He said shyly, his voice was unique but somewhat familiar.

“Nono its okay… You were closer to it.” Your voice was shy too, he wasn’t intimidating in the slightest, it was just really embarrassing that this was happening to you. This was like the opposite of a fictional moment.

“I insist, it would be really rude of me.” He awkwardly handed it to you, you tried to push it away, but he didn’t budge.

“I feel kind of bad now.” You laughed a little, holding onto the prized possession. Lowkey taking it from someone else took the excitement out of it. You looked down at your shoes.

“Um, well, you know um…” As he spoke you looked up at him, he looked awkward and kind of funny. From what you could see he looked nervous. It made you smile.

“Yeah…?” You questioned.

“I don’t normally do this but maybeyoucouldmakeituptomebygoingonadatewithme?” the guy asked, his voice raising a bit by the end of it. You never got experiences like this anymore, it was cute. Really cute. So, you decided, fuck it, why not?

“Sure!”

“Wait actually? You don’t have to I don’t want to come off as creepy or anything and- “

“I would like to go on a date with you.” You said.

This was a chance to feel normal. It was breaking rules but… whatever. You handed him your phone, and he put his number in. You tried not to focus on his hands too much, but they were really pretty so you couldn’t help the small glances. He handed your phone back and you looked at the contact’s name, Jacob?

“Your name is Jacob?” You questioned. “Jacob” nodded.

“…Yes…” his words came out as a question. You smiled at him; you needed a fake name. You can’t just be like ‘oh yeah I’m Y/n from Pastel Road!!1!’ You didn’t know him from atom.

“I’m Miranda!” You stook your hand out- you were mentally cringing.

“Like the girl who plays Carly from iCarly?” He laughed and shook your hand. You laughed along with him, somewhat nervously.

“Yeah exactly…!”

Okay smooth, good job Y/n!

You looked at him and his eyes were really attractive too. You could see pretty much ONLY his eyes but still. You felt in a silly goofy mood for accepting a date with this random stranger.

“Oh here!” He handed you his phone and you put your number in. You nodded handed it back to him. Right after his phone started ringing and Jacob excused himself. You stood there in shock; you just gave a complete stranger your number. Oh my god you cannot tell Kim. You think she’d kill you. Looking down at the comic book in your hands you smiled, at least you got the gift for your dad, that is what was most important. Jacob walked back after a few minutes and you two walked the store together.

“Obviously Thor is the best Avenger, his arcs are so beautifully portrayed in the movies.” He spoke as you guys looked through the boxes of comics.

“That is SO not true. Tony Stark’s character had so much development through the different movies. Especially in Civil War.” You said back, leaning against the table.

The man looked at you and jokingly scoffed, “that is SUCH a copout. Everyone says Iron Man.”

“Okay if we are going all Marvel characters, then Rocket.”

Jacob’s face fell, “DON’T REMIND ME- OH MY GOD.” He whisper-yelled and covered his face. You let out a laugh, throwing your head back.

“I am just speaking facts here! He has an amazing character arc, and his backstory is GUTWRENCHING!”

Jacob looked at you, “you aren’t wrong! But oh my GOD!”

You two continued to laugh and look at the different comics together- both of you walked out with a couple bags of comics. You felt normal, and it sort of made you giddy.

“I have to um, go this way.” You said it was time to walk back to the dorm, sadly. You didn’t want this day to end but you’ve been out for a really long time, and you should probably go on weverse and talk to your fans- the travelers. Maybe go live. Even if it was your day off. You felted refreshed enough to do so.

“Shit yeah, I didn’t even notice the time. I have to work on something for my job.” Jacob looked a little panicked, “I will text you.” His eyes squinted and he waved before rushing off. You turned around and went in the opposite direction, grinning to yourself. You never got this feeling anymore; you shouldn’t try to get attached to it though.

When you got back to your dorm you did go live and talk to the fans, Felicity was still doing a vlog, so you were stuck in one of the rooms until further notice. It didn’t bother you, you loved talking about random things with the fans.

~+~

A couple days go by, and you had work with your members. You and Kim sat next to each other on the ride over.

“I was thinking for the recording today we focus more on the intro songs than anything else, then this weekend we can focus on the title track since that will take up most of our time.” She was the leader, so scheduling was really important to her.

“I think that is a good idea!” Felicity said and peaked her head over the seats, she was the youngest, so she went along with whatever Kim said, for the most part. Jade and Q were too busy talking about concepts. Q spent a lot of her free time talking to and being with her family which you didn’t blame her. If you could, you would, and Jade was always with her dance teacher. All of you were very busy people, so car rides were fun. The car was lively, and your group continued to be lively even in the studio. You were first to record your bits of the song and then you filmed some things for a behind the scenes before taking a break on one of the couches. You opened up a game on your phone and just decompressed. You got a text, and you couldn’t help the giggle that escaped you.

Jacob :] : I am literally so sorry for not texting you, my job had me swamped right when I got home and for the past day

You: omg don’t worry its okay! im actually at work rn! but im on break so i can text

Jacob :] : Im at work too haha, except I am kinda sneaking my phone

Jacob :] : shhh don’t tell anyone.

You: oh i wouldn’t dream of it

Jacob :] : So, I was thinking, if you still want to go on that date with me, why don’t we go out to that store again and then maybe read our comic books together at like a park maybe???

Jacob :] : I am sorry if that sounds lame, I’ve never been on an actual date since like I was in highschool.

You: nonono i love the idea, a lot actually. its really sweet :( it will depend on my schedule.

Jacob :] : Oh, thank god you like the idea, I almost shit my pants trying to figure it out.

You let out a laugh audibly, he was just so cute…

You: no need to worry, i really love the idea. is it okay if i keep my mask on though? i have REALLY bad allergies sometimes.

Jacob :] : I do too so I will probably do the same :] do you have the next federal holiday off?

You: i shouuuld is that when you want to go out?

Jacob :] : 100% yes

After you finished texting you went back to work, which consisted of 5+ hours of dance practice so that was fun! You were sore but it was worth it. Your group has made a lot of progress recently and it made you proud. Kim and Jade were out to get food and the rest of the members were sprawled out.

“Oh Y/n, your phone is buzzing.” Felicity said and flipped over to you, handing you your phone. It was Jacob texting you about his day. You smiled to yourself.

“Why are you smiling?” Q asked, now on her stomach.

“I made a friend at the comic bookstore a couple days ago.” You said nonchalantly. Q looked at you funny.

“And you gave them your number?”

“Isn’t that dangerous?” Felicity questioned you. You shrugged.

“They seem nice so.” You read over Jacob’s texts. It was so hard to not smile. He was so dorky it was charming. He wasn’t like the other guys in your industry who tried to hit on you. Jacob was normal…

“Kim’s gonna kill you.” Q mumbled and rubbed her eyes; it was a really long day so far and it wasn’t even CLOSE to being done.

~+~

The past few days were busy, Pastel Road was recording the show you guys have as a group and once again always practicing. You were really happy to have this lunch by yourself in the company canteen. You scrolled through your phone just watching TikToks. The noodles in your bowl are long forgotten. You smiled to yourself as some goofy things popped up, you didn’t even notice someone sitting by you.

“I’m so sorry to sit at your table, they are just cleaning over there and like, I feel awkward sitting there.”

For a second it sounded like Jacob’s voice which really threw you off. When you looked up you saw Jake. He was a coworker. One of the guys in the group that helped train your group sometimes. He was close with Jungwon.

“Oh no worries.” You smiled at him, he eased and sat down.

“Busy lately?” You wanted to try and start some sort of conversation with him. Jake just looked at you like you had nine heads then pointed to himself, asking if you were talking to him. Your brows furrowed. Obviously, you were talking to him, he was the only other person at this table.

“Oh, yeah.” He said and sipped his drink, “we have a lot coming up soon.”

You couldn’t help but let out a small laugh, “I don’t bite, you know, you can talk to me.”

“I-I know! I’m not scared of you! That would be ridiculous!” Jake scoffed, “I am great at talking to women actually!”

“Alright Jake.” You laughed again and picked up your trash, “it was nice talking to you playboy, I need to get back to work though.” Your tone had a sarcastic lick to it, and you smiled as you walked out. You always found him cute, but you would never think to make any kind of move on him. He is your coworker, that would be disastrous. You are already on thin ice with Jacob.

~+~

The whole week leading up to your date you have been overworking yourself and getting things done, so you made sure you would have absolutely no work on the day. All your fans were astonished to see how much content they are getting out of you, they were not complaining though!

When the day finally did come, Kim was suspicious as to why you were somewhat dressed up and had light makeup on. On your group’s downtime you don’t usually wear makeup being how almost every time at work it had to be caked on. Luckily, you managed to sneak past her, and you practically skipped down the sidewalk. You ordered new clothes online last week to wear out today. This was mainly because while traveling and working you wore the same things a lot. You wanted to make sure your date today with Jacob went smoothly. No creeps, no weirdos, and as much as you loved them- no fans.

You walked into the familiar comic book shop and saw Jacob. Fixing your hat, you approached him.

“Hi!” You smiled behind your mask. Jacob looked down at you, ohhh boy. He really knew how to dress.

“Hey Miranda!”

Who the fuck is- oh yeah… Your fake name.

“You look great! I love your jacket!” You complimented him, he had on a really nice denim jacket, like the ones that have the really fancy buttons. His hat matched the color pallet too!

“Oh, this old thing? Pssshhhh.” He waved his hand and looked away, Jacob being a little shy was cute. He wasn’t really like this over text- and to be honest it added to his charm. You couldn’t help grinning up at him. He was so awkwardly dashing.

“I’m kinda relieved both of us have bad allergies and have to keep our masks on, it would be really awkward to be the only one in a mask.” You spoke as you walked through the store with him.

“Oh, me too.” Jacob sighed in relief, “I also get really bad sores so- wait I’m sorry is that gross?”

A small giggle escaped your mouth, “it’s not gross, it’s human. I wish I got told stuff like that more to be honest.” You both found yourselves in the figure section.

“Wait what do you mean by that?” He asked and watched you look at the different figures from various Marvel and DC comics. You took a deep breath.

“Just work stuff, we always have to be proper and perfect.” You looked back at him, and he was still looking right at you.

“I really understand. Trust me.” Jacob spoke, his voice softer now. It was bad he already had you somewhat weak in the knees. The next appropriate question would be, ‘where do you work?’ but he changed the subject.

“Oh man I’ve wanted this figure forever.” His eyes widened and he blinked fast while looking at the Hulkbuster figure. Your smile came back almost instantly seeing him act like this.

“I actually have two of those if you want one…” You said, Jacob whipped his head toward you.

“Are you for real???”

You nodded, “my mem- roommate, my roommate got me one when I had already ordered one. I couldn’t tell her, so I just have it in my closet.”

“Welllll, if you have two, I guess I could take it off your hands…” He bumped your shoulder; another giggle escaped you and you ended up leading him to the comic book section.

Once again, you two probably spent way too much money on comics. Both of you laughed as you walked to the park. There seemed to always be laughter and small giggles between you two. This date was going too well, you already knew it was dangerous for your heart.

“I’m being so serious, he makes fun of me all the time, these random noises that happen around me are not my fault!”

“Yeaaaah… Okaaay Jacob.” You teased him, he looked confused for a second and then seemed to snap out of whatever confusion had him.

“I have a nickname, if you want to call me by that…” Jacob said, you looked up at him and turned your head.

“Oh? Do tell.” You bumped arms with him this time. He visibly relaxed and he looked down at you again.

“My close friends call me Jake.”

How ironic…

“We are close friends now?” You teased Jake. He huffed and looked away, ears turning pink.

“Well, we’ve texted every day for the past couple weeks and are hanging out, so I’d hope so…?”

“I’m just teasing you, Jake.” You smiled up at him, you watched as his eyes squinted down at you which meant he was smiling too. You wish you could see behind his mask. You bet he had a wonderful smile to match his personality.

“This seems like a good spot.” He led you under a tree and dug through his bag for a blanket. He laid it out and you both sat down. The river view was really calming. It was a little chilly in the shade, but you put up with it.

“Can I read yours with you?” Jake asked, he was shy again and you could feel yourself melting. You nodded as you leaned against the tree, he followed your actions, “just tell me when to turn the page, okay?”

Jake nodded and leaned his head on your shoulder, you were not going to lie to yourself- he smelled really good. You two read comics together until you shivered.

“Oh!” He sat up and you honestly frowned behind your mask. That was until he took off his jacket and wrapped it around you. Your face definitely was warm. Maybe the mask wasn’t such a bad thing.

“Here, it’ll keep you warm.” After, he just resumed putting his head on you and continued like it was nothing. You were left in shock.

Unfortunately… All good things come to an end, and he was walking with you back to the shop where you two agreed to part ways in front of.

“I’ve always wanted to go to Avengers Campus at Disneyland, I mean obviously the superheroes walking around are actors BUT I still love the idea of goofing off and taking photos with them!” You rambled. Jake nodded listening to you.

“That would genuinely be so fun!” He giggled. Your conversation turned into random things until you both made it to the store.

“Are you sure you don’t want me to walk you home?” he asked sincerely. You turned around to look at him.

“Maybe next time.” You swung your bag back and forth.

“Next time!?” Jake’s eyes widened.

Your head was thrown back as you laughed, “yes next time! If you want of course!”

“YES! I MEAN- yes yes definitely next time!” You saw how Jake practically was bouncing up and down at you wanting to go on another date with him. I mean you wanted to scream in your pillow and kick your feet when you got home, it made you happy to know your feelings were reciprocated.

“I’ll choose the date spot next time.” You looked up at him, letting your eyes do all the talking.

“Sounds perfect!”

“Oh here-“ You went to take off his jacket, but he stopped you.

“Keep it, you can give it to me next time.”

The two of you went to say goodbye, but you quickly grabbed his arm and pulled him down to you so you could give him a kiss on the cheek through the mask. Then you quickly sped off, leaving him in awe.

~+~

Once again you found yourself lying on the practice room floor, out of breath. You decided to take up more practice time with Kim. She was next to you, also worn out.

“You know, Y/n…” She turned to face you and you turned to face her.

“I didn’t want to tell the other members yet, but since we are here, I overheard our management talking.”

You nodded listening to her.

Kim grinned at her next words, “apparently they want us at K-CON LA.”

You sat up super quickly, “NO WAY!”

“Y/N DON’T GET UP THAT QUICKLY YOU’LL FAINT!” Kim laid back down laughing.

“I already feel like I am going to!” You said while letting small giggles escape you.

“We are going to announce it later today apparently when we go live.” Kim got up slowly and put her hand out.

“So, lets get washed up!”

Kim heard correctly because next thing you knew you were sitting in front of a camera going live for your fans- travelers. You wore Jake’s jacket not really thinking much of it. It’s not like people would know its this random nerd you met in a comic book shop’s jacket, right?

After the K-CON announcement all of you were dismissed back to work. Now, it was straight to stage practices. Once again, you guys were going to have an action-packed few weeks, especially with your comeback coming up too.

“Felicity try that move again and then we can all go on break.” Q watched intently. Felicity listened and Q corrected her. Then FINALLY, it was time to eat.

The five of you headed to the Hybe cafeteria, it was packed today. You could pick out TXT, Enhypen, you thought you saw a couple Seventeen members too. Today must’ve been announcement day.

You looked over at Felicity who looked nervous, you felt bad. She was still getting used to the whole idol thing. You put your arm around her and led her through. Kim and Q helped the rest of your little friend group. When you guys got situated almost instantly Jungwon came to check in on you guys. He was talking about K-CON or something. You didn’t know, you just went on your phone to text Jake.

You: im finally on my break

Jacob :] : Hey :) I am too

You: im really sorry ive been so busy, ive wanted to hang out and stuff with you and talk but my schedules been insane

Jacob :] : Amen to that, me and my coworkers have been swamped, we have a big thing coming up so you can imagine how frantic it has been.

You: we just got told that we have a big thing coming too

You: wouldn’t it be funny if we worked at the same company lolz

Jacob :] : ID BE TERRIFIED

You: WTF WHY ?!

Jacob :] : um… I am a businessman…….

You: HELP WHAT

You started laughing and Felicity looked at you funny, “oh you’re texting your friend, right?”

“What friend?” Kim looked away from her conversation with Jungwon, “you don’t have other friends- no offense!”

Jade started laughing at the conversation.

“I met a friend at the comic book shop I frequent!” You said back, “h- they are really nice!”

“HE!?” At this point all the girls were looking at you. Jungwon looked around.

“I think I will leave you guys to it! Haha!” Jungwon then sped back to his group. Now you were left with four girls and 8 curious eyes. You took a deep breath before explaining. You left out the romantic nature of it though. Mainly because you didn’t know what you two were yet and because it wasn’t allowed. After eating and letting your food settle you guys went right back to work.

The only other time you got to text Jake again was in bed. You closed your bunk curtains and got comfortable.

You: heyheyhey im finally in bed

Jacob :] : Hey I’m glad you got home safely

Jacob :] : We just got back a couple hours ago

You: you work late too?

Jacob :] : I don’t have a set schedule tbh. It is mainly when they need us, we show up

You: oh man i feel you

Jacob :] : Where do you work? If you don’t mind me asking

Fuck……….

You: i help with idols makeup haha

You weren’t TECHNICALLY lying.

Jacob :] : Holy shit i help produce songs with idols

You: it would be so funny if we ACTUALLY FR worked at the same company tbh

Jacob :] : Should we text it at the same time?

You: why not

Jacob :] : One

You: 1

Jacob :] : Two

You: 2

Jacob :] : Three

You: 3

Jacob :] : Bighit

You: bighit technically

Your eyes widened and you shot up hitting your head on the bunk, “FUCK!”

Jade screamed and Kim hit your bunk which was under hers, “I TOLD YOU NOT TO GET UP QUICKLY!” You heard Felicity start laughing and then Q turning off her switch. Your eyes were glued to your phone- he worked at Bighit…

Jacob :] : You’re fucking with me

You: im literally not… how could i? we sent it at the same time!

Jacob :] : Holy fuck okay

You: do you um… work tomorrow?

Jacob :] : Yeah at the building

You: im not at the building tomorrow :(

You were lying obviously, not in a malicious way. You just wanted to get a scope out on who this guy is. What if he knew you were an idol? He could be a secret stalker or something… No, Y/n you’re being crazy. If he was insane, he would’ve done something by now. Pull yourself together.

Jacob :] : That sucks I would’ve asked if you wanted to get lunch or something

You: at the canteen?

Jacob :] : Yes, they have like the best snacks there.

Jacob :] : Well you’d probably already know

You: i do lol but i can act like i don’t

Jacob :] : Cute

The conversation ended around there and you felt insanely nervous for tomorrow. He worked at the same company as you, anything that could’ve gone wrong is going wrong. You need to keep your head on a swivel tomorrow. It wasn’t a fear of him when you thought about it more. It was the fear of losing Jake.

~+~

You kept an eye out for him for the past couple weeks but got nothing. It was weird, he said he was at the building but no matter what you couldn’t find Jake at work. At one point, you thought you saw the back of him. But that was just Jake from Enhypen, not your Jake. It was all so confusing; you were starting to become delusional. Your conversations with YOUR Jake never ceased, you guys would text about your days, meals, everything. He helped keep you grounded in this environment and part of you hoped you did the same thing for him. Whatever branch of BigHit he was in.

You checked your phone as it buzzed.

Jacob :] : Are we still on for tonight?

Fuck, you totally forgot. You honestly just wanted to go home and sleep, but even if you had a broken leg, you still wanted to see him. It’s almost as if you just always wanted to be around him. His energy revived you.

You: yeah lemme just get changed :)

You honestly couldn’t wait, today was stressful with all the work now piling up. Even though your group kept a steady and ahead work pace, everything still stacked. It was a lot, and you missed just being yourself.

After getting changed in the company bathrooms you walked to the destination spot. You guys went out a few days ago to go to a themed café but both of you were awkward with drinks. You and Jake were still keeping the masks on. But even with that fact, he still told you to keep his jacket, you still gave him things that were in your own personal collection of comics, figures, anything you thought he’d like. Jake would tell you small details about his family and you told him how your dad really loved the comic that brought you and him together. Even without seeing each other’s full faces… you still had a close connection. He didn’t even call you by that stupid name you gave yourself anymore. He just called you by petname.

Part of you wanted to tell him. I mean if he was staff was it really so crazy to actually date him? Would it be so crazy to establish something?

You got lost in your thoughts as you waited for Jake by a tree, it was his turn to pick where you guys went out this time. Your heart fluttered in excitement and your brain started to imagine what he looked like behind his mask.

“So sorry I’m late we don’t have time lets go!” Jake ran by you grabbing your hand and rushing off. You follow him, laughter escaping you. Your body was tired, but your heart was filled with endearment and excitement.

“Where are we even going?” Your chest heaved as he stopped in front of a café. He held onto your hand still. Your eyes met his and it became your favorite sight.

“The uber said he would be here in like 2 minutes.” Jake laughed; he was out of breath too.

“Is he here?”

“No- BUT! It’s okay.” His eyes squinted; you knew he was smiling.

You found yourself holding onto his arm and leaning on him.

“I forgot to ask if you’re even comfortable getting into a car with me…” Jake mumbled down at you, “I mean like, we haven’t really seen each other’s faces yaknow and-“ He was rambling.

“Jake, I trust you.”

This was a horrible move, your logical brain that was connected to your idol mentality was telling you to run. But you, your Y/n mentality, wanted this. Of course, that part of your brain won, you were with your Jake. You didn’t have to be Idol Y/n.

“I’m glad.” He mumbled; you felt his head lean on yours as you both waited for your uber.

~+~

“Okay, we are here!” He made you walk with his hands over your eyes. You have never experienced something like this in your life. When he uncovered your eyes, you were standing outside an Aquarium. You saw the signs and read that there was a night event.

“Jake this is so sweet…” You smiled up at him. He stood pridefully.

“I did good then?” He teased you, nudging your shoulder. You started laughing.

“Don’t get a big head about it!”

He let out a loud breathy laugh and you both walked into the aquarium. There weren’t a lot of people there being how the exhibit was at night. You had guessed it was probably the last hour of it being open, you didn’t mind. Any time with Jake was worth it.

They had a good number of fluorescent fish out, you went up to the glass in awe, “did you know that sometimes the fluorescent parts of the fish are just their bacteria?” You asked turning around for a split second.

“I didn’t.” You couldn’t see as you were enthralled by the fish swimming around, but he looked at you with the biggest hearts in his eyes.

“It’s true, so I think if you were to pet one then-“ You stopped when you felt his arms around you, he snuck them around your waist, placing his head on your shoulder. Your brain short circuited as he hugged you from behind.

“Is this, okay?” he asked quietly. You hummed a yes, he relaxed, “so what was it about petting the fish?”

“Well- if it’s bacteria I’d think that if you were to pet it, it could rub off. However, I don’t know if it’s like a moth where they need said covering. Moths have dust that they need to survive.” You spoke, he hummed now- listening to you.

“But some of the other fish, have this fluorescent as a way to hide from predators, you might ask, well wouldn’t that attract preda-“

You stopped when you felt his lips hit the side of your face that wasn’t covered by the mask, the urge to whip your head around was strong. But… Something in you told you to not turn around.

“Don’t move, let me put my mask back on.” Jake said, now letting go of you. Your heart was racing even more than when you guys ran to the uber. He actually kissed your cheek; Jake took his mask off. You couldn’t witness it, but he did.

“Okay ready to go to the next exhibit?” Jake giggled and grabbed your hand, once again dragging your lovestruck self.

The next one was a shark one, you loved sharks.

“I used to go fishing a lot back home.” Jake was reminiscing, his hands in his pockets as he watched the animals. You knew he didn’t grow up here, his accent prominent. You never asked about it though. There was a lot of foreigners in your company, on camera and off.

“Did you like it?”

Jake huffed a laugh and looked down, “I still do. I’m not very good at it though.”

You let out a laugh now and Jake continued.

“I’m being so honest with you, I embarrassed myself a couple times. But I still love it…” He looked down at you now, “sometimes I wish that- sometimes I wish I could go more often.”

You nodded, “I have a couple hobbies like that back at home, they aren’t as interesting as fishing but still.”

“A hobby is a hobby.” Jake’s voice was soft, you felt his hand slip in yours. You wanted to ask what you two were. You didn’t want to get played or let on.

“Jake?” You asked him.

“Yeah?” Jake looked down at you, you played with the hem of his jacket, that you were wearing. The denim one from your first date.

“Do you see anyone else?”

When you met his eyes, he almost looked hurt, “no, of course not. Did something make you feel that way?” Frantically, you shook your head no.

“I just wanted to make sure, I am not seeing anyone else either…” Behind your mask you were grinning looking back at the tank. You were glad he wasn’t seeing anyone else.

“Don’t get a big head about it.” He mocked you and lightly pinched your arm, “I can see your eyes squinting- someone’s happy I give all my attention to my one favorite girl.”

One thing you learned with him, the second he was comfortable with you, anytime you thought you had the upper hand in flirting, he annihilated you.

“So, what does that make us?” You asked. Jake took a deep breath.

“Well, me and you are still busy a lot.” He walked you guys through the next exhibit, “I’d say exclusive for now. I don’t want to see anyone else, and not to sound like a dick, but I don’t want you to see anyone else either.”

“That makes two of us.” You nudged him, giggling to yourself.

Jake nudged you back, “I’m just being honest, I don’t want the girl I lo- really like-“

“Oh?” You interrupted him, behind your mask you were grinning wickedly, “girl you what?”

“Really like!”

“I don’t think ‘really’ starts with ‘lo’”

Jake looked up and covered his face, “I’m SO embarrassed I didn’t mean to drop that on the third official date…”

“I love you too.” You said in between laughter.

“I totally meant to drop that on the third official date.”

~+~

That was the last time you saw Jake physically for a while. Well… A week, but that was way too long for you. As much as you wanted to run into his arms and stay there. You had a job, responsibilities. You couldn’t always be JUST Y/n. People counted on you. You huffed as you walked back into the practice room. All your friends were yelling now at each other. This confused you; you were gone for like five minutes to get water.

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU SPRAINED YOUR ANKLE!?” Kim was erratic in her hand movements. Q was covering her face, and Felicity was running out past you to presumably get the staff. Jade was on the floor in tears.

“I didn’t know it was sprained until this morning! I thought I could get through practice… K-Con is a really big deal for us…” Jade held her leg. You went over to her and pulled her into your arms. Kim stood silently now. The staff quickly rushed in and got Jade up. You had to let go of her even though Jade was practically sobbing into you.

The four of you sat silently in a circle in the practice room.

“K-Con is in a month…” Q spoke, and the air was heavy.

Kim let out a sigh and mumbled to herself.

“We could have her perform on a chair…” You said, trying to find some way out of this. Some way your group wouldn’t have to completely cancel out Jade. It was just her ankle, it’s not like she was sick, or her vocals were fried.

“No, you know she would hate that.” Kim said sternly, “you would know she would if you were actually at home on your days off.”

Ouch… That was a shot towards you…

“Well, what do you want us to do?” Q questioned; you could sense this conversation slowly getting heated. A couple months of practice and stress now all crashing down.

Kim took a deep breath, “we can just do it without her.”

“What!?” Normally, you wouldn’t raise your voice, however, this was ridiculous, “just give her the chair! Yeah, it’s a little embarrassing but she will still be on stage!”

Q nodded along with you, “Y/n is right, we shouldn’t take that away from her.”

“Last time I talked to her, since neither of you actually sit down with he-“

“I have an idea!” Felicity interrupted Kim and got up. She ran out of the practice room. Now down to three, none of you wanted to talk. You were worried about your friend. Someone who you shared a home with, a group with, a fanbase, everything. You shared everything with each other. It felt like hours of silence until Kim went to speak up again.

“As I was saying when I was-“ Kim started speaking and then Felicity came back in the room, but not alone. She had three other people with her. It was Jungwon, Jay, and Jake. The three J’s of Enhypen.

You watched as she explained to them what happened, they explained that a similar thing happened to them with Sunoo. Jungwon took a deep breath and leaned back on the practice room mirror.

“I know you guys don’t want to perform without her…” He started, “but sometimes it has to happen.”

Kim nodded, “I said this- “

“What?” Jake spoke up, “she sprained her ankle not her head.”

You practically jumped up at this, “LITERALLY! Just let her perform on the chair!”

“The chair is humiliating.” Jungwon chimed in again. Kim nodded.

“Jade told me she never wanted to perform on a chair.” Kim said, you and Q looked at each other in disbelief.

Your eye twitched, “so you’re just going to take away that option!?”

“Yeah, how is that fair?!” Jake had your back on this. Normally, you’d tease this weirdo(endearing) but he had your back right now.

“She told me her- “

“People change Kim! They change their opinions! And you shouldn’t take away that option!” You stood up, “I’m taking a walk. If I am not back at the dorm by midnight just call me or whatever. Don’t lose your shit that I’m taking MY downtime to do things that relieve my stress!” Your legs quickly took you out before your brain could comprehend your friends calling after you. Your bag slung over your shoulder, and it hit your legs which were extremely sore. You put on your mask quickly.

Tears welded up in your eyes and you started beelining to the exit, when you opened the doors the warm summer air hit you, even though it was late. Your tears were pouring, and you fumbled with your phone. You called one of your family members, you might as well go there for the night. You’d text the members when you get there and tell them your plans. You thought it was your tears hitting your phone until you saw the ground. Great- it started raining. It was one of those hard summer rains too. Where the air would get humid, and the rain wasn’t any sort of refreshing.

“Hello? Y/n its late for you- are you okay?” Your Aunts voice chimed in.

“Yeah, I just- wait for me?” You sniffled and took off your mask to talk more clearly. It was already going to be hard due to the horrible feeling in your throat.

You heard your cousins yelling in the background, “yeah we are out of town- honey, what’s wrong?”

“I just need a place- a place to stay tonight and-“ You stumbled as you walked down the sidewalk.

“The key is under the ceramic pig near the potted plants, stay as long as you need. If you’re still there next week, we come home Thursday, okay?”

You nodded and thanked her before hanging up and trying to walk safely to that neighborhood. You really shouldn’t be walking alone but you were until someone ran up to you.

“Y/n! Wait!” You turned around and saw Jake running up to you. This is not the Jake you wanted to see right now.

“I don’t want to see anyone from work right now.” You practically bit his head off.

Jake looked at you, both of you soaked, “at least tell me where you’re going so, I know you’re safe.”

“Does it matter to you? You barely know me-!” Your eyes pierced through him, “just leave me alone!” You whipped back around; you were upset, and you just wanted to see YOUR Jake. The one that made you feel normal. Where you didn’t have to deal with this idol bullshit.

“Promise me you’ll text Jungwon, I know you have his number.”

Jake’s voice sounded scarily familiar, but you were too messed up to even think.

“Fine! I promise! Now leave me alone!”

You started walking again, it was a longish walk to your aunt’s house, but you made it safely. You texted Jungwon that you were safe then you dropped your bags. You were soaking wet, it was late, and you just had one of the biggest group fights ever. You felt like the worst friend ever too. You noticed the puddle on the floor and sighed.

Taking a shower and getting into your aunt’s clothes, you were sure she didn’t mind, you laid on the couch. In the dark, alone. You could hear your phone buzzing from the bathroom. Part of you didn’t want to even look at it, but you needed your Jake asap. You hoped he was still awake. Getting up and almost slipping on the towel on the floor you headed to the bathroom.

When you unlocked your phone you sat on the toilet seat cover, at this point your voice was steady and you calmed down. You opened Jake’s contact and called him.

“Hello?” He picked up after a couple rings, you could hear voices in the background.

“Hey, um, are you busy…?” You asked, your voice was softer than usual.

You heard Jake fiddle with his stuff, “things are a little wild here in the ummmm producer office?” It sounded like a question before he continued, “however, if you need me, please say so because I need to get out of here.”

“I need you; I am at a family members house… housesitting…” You cringed, lying to him. You couldn’t let him know you ran away from work to your Aunt’s house. That would look horrible.

“Send me the address I’m on my way.”

The second you hung up- you sent it, and he was there in 15 minutes. You already had your mask on, and he had his on. He wore some clothes from the Hybe gym.

“Did you steal those?” You laughed, Jake looked down and laughed.

“I got soaked earlier when it was raining so I had to change.” Jake snickered and you both sat on the couch.

“I had to shower and change too,” taking a deep breath you leaned on him, “I’m sorry for interrupting your work… It sounded busy.”

Jake looked down at you, “I should be thanking you. It was a rough last couple hours of work…”

“Amen to that…” You mumbled and stretched out. He laughed again and kissed your head through the mask.

“I’ll probably stay here for a few hours to make sure you’re okay before I head back.” He spoke quietly, his voice matched the calm atmosphere of the empty home. You only had the hall light on, that light was dimly lighting the living room.

“You don’t have to do that, I just wanted to see you even if it was just you stopping by… it’s late and your roommates-” Your voice was quiet now. He hummed a no.

“I need this right now too… Work has been nonstop lately with some work trip coming up… I already told them I was going to be out.”

“Are you working K-Con…?” Your question was valid, if he was in the producing apartment, you’d imagine they’re having very late nights.

“Yeah…” He sighed and laid his head back, “constant work on producing… yeah…”

You nodded, that’s what you thought, “do you want to watch a movie or something?”

“Did something happen today?” He fully turned to you, “you’re quieter.” You just looked at him and shrugged.

“It’s nothing I want to go into detail about right now…” You looked up at him. Jake nodded.

“Movie it is then.”

You grinned and ran to turn the hall light off; movies were always the best in the dark.

~+~

By the end of the movie, you were both laughing. The work stress almost all gone.

“I haven’t seen that movie in forever.” he said, still chuckling. You turned to him.

Jaw on the floor you spoke, “are you for real?! I watch Tangled at least once every few months!”

“If I watch movies its usually with other people!”

The end credits played, and you got up, “dance with me.”

Jake nodded eagerly and stood up; you laughed as he pulled you close to him. He spun you and you almost fell over. He caught you, just like he always did. The upbeat song made both of you dance around wildly, you couldn’t help singing along aswell. Jake laughed.

If anyone saw you two, the sight would be insane. Two people, sleep deprived, overworked, dancing like maniacs. When the screen started fading to black, he pulled you close again. The black and white credits rolling.

“Can I kiss you? Like actually this time…”

Your heart was racing from more than just the adrenaline, “like taking our masks off?”

“We can close our eyes…” His hands found your waist, you looked up at him and saw nothing but love in his eyes. You nodded. The screen fading to black, it was now or never. You both closed your eyes and you felt Jake’s hand creep up your face.

“Tell me if I poke your eye.”

You started laughing, “just kiss me.”

And he did.

You weren’t thinking about work, or whatever was stressing you out. The only thing on your mind was him. He cupped your face with both hands, the kiss was soft, like he didn’t want to hurt you in any way. When you both pulled away, on instinct both your eyes opened.

The screen illuminating the room, both your faces staring at each other.

“Y/N!?”

“JAKE?! LIKE JAKE SIM!?”

“YOUR NAME ISNT MIRANDA YOU LIED TO ME!”

At this point both of you jumped away from each other.

“YOUR NAME ISNT JACOB!” You yelled back pointing at him. Jake put his hand on his chest like you just accused him of murder.

“AT LEAST ITS CLOSE TO IT!”

“I TOLD YOU A NICKNAME THAT WAS KIND OF CLOSE TO MY NAME!” You argued back with him. You both went silent, and this is when it both hit you. This situation was BAD.

“Fuck…” He mumbled and started chewing his lip, “you know I had my suspicions, but I thought I was crazy.”

“I should’ve known the second you said your name was Jake…” You spoke to yourself. You both just stood there in the TV light.

“I need to check my contract… I don’t even know if my dating ban is up…” He said, loud enough for you to hear.

“IF YOU DIDN’T KNOW, WHY DID YOU ASK ME OUT!?”

He looked at you, jaw on the floor now, “don’t girl groups ALWAYS have a ban!? Why’d you say yes to going out with me in the first place!?”

“We do not! I just- Our group still has ours…” You mumbled, looking away from him. Whenever you were previously with Jake you could forget about reality for a while. Now it was absolutely biting you in the ass. You sat down with your head in your hands, you were in love with the idol Jake Sim… You felt the couch dip next to you.

“Listen…” Jake started, you looked at him, tears brimming your eyes. He felt like the worst person ever, making you cry, “Y/n… I’m not mad at you.”

“You’re right, I should be mad at you for asking me out.” You tried joking. He laughed through his nose.

“The only reason why I brought up the dating ban is because I still want to be with you… I don’t regret asking you out…” Your eyes stayed on him as he spoke, “I can’t be mad at you because I wasn’t really truthful either.”

“Yeah, you’re not a producer.” You laughed slightly.

“And you aren’t a makeup artist or whatever you said.” Jake added on. He grabbed your hand and squeezed it.

“I don’t want to stop seeing you, yeah, it’s stupid and it’s so risky… But…” Jake looked at you, “I feel human around you… I don’t want to lose that…”

“I don’t either…” You mumbled, a couple tears falling, Jake caught them.

“You don’t have to cry anymore Y/n it’s okay…” He wrapped his arms around you, and you hugged him back.

“I still love you Jake, even if you’re the loser I tease in the canteen or in passing at work.” You chuckled and looked up at him.

He smiled and rolled his eyes, “pfft and you’re in love with me, doesn’t that make you a loser too?”

“I guess it does.”

You both were silent for a bit before laughter erupted in the living room, “we are so fucked if anyone finds out.”

~+~

The next morning you walked back to your dorm, you texted Jake to let him know you got home safely. He thanked you for telling him and you took a deep breath before walking into the lion’s den.

“Y/N YOURE HOME!” Felicity ran up to you and tackled you. Kim sat at the island; she didn’t even look your way.

“I am, I texted you guys’ last night that I was staying at my aunts.” You laughed as you tried to fix your hair. Q emerged from the hallway and hugged you too. After reuniting with her Kim finally approached you.

“I’m sorry, I let my stress get the better of me.” She said, “I should’ve asked Jade her opinion on it before making rash decisions. I am the leader, and it was my bad…”

You smiled and pulled Kim into a hug, “its okay! We are all learning.” She sighed in relief and gave you the update on Jade. Jade wanted to perform; it would just be on the stupid chair. She said she had to suck it up.

After that, the next few weeks were swamped. K-Con was coming up FAST. Next thing you knew you were arriving at the airport. Ironically your group arrived at the same time as Enhypen. You saw your Jake and he went to wave at you before Jungwon smacked him upside the head.

No dating rumors today!

Q looked at you funny, then her jaw dropped. She covered it by pretending to sneeze. Cameras were surrounding you all so you can’t imagine the scolding you were about to get from Q when you got on the plane with staff.

Once settled on the plane you looked to Q, her eyebrow up, “did you and Jake become close when he chased after you?”

“Yeah, you can say that.” You said, ignoring your phone buzzing.

“Did he run after you in the rain?”

You nodded, “he did…”

~+~

Your group was about to go on the red carpet, nerves fueled you all. It was your first serious event and it had all of you shaking in your boots.

“What if I vomit?” Felicity said and gripped onto you, her acrylic nails stabbing into you.

“At least you aren’t wearing a boot! The staff made me wear one that doesn’t even help my foot!” Jade said and looked at her.

“What’s important is that you’re here.” Kim spoke and smiled at Jade. Q nodded and gave Jade a squeeze on her shoulder.

“Ready?” Kim asked you all. The five of you smiled and walked into the flashes of cameras. The interviews went smoothly, everything went smoothly. Your group was praised for growing so quickly and how hard you all worked. This is what made your job worth it.

You found your seats backstage and saw all the snacks, “ohhhhh my gosh!” Jade limped over to the snack table.

“Ugh Jade is so lucky; she gets the chair so she can eat without getting sick on stage!” Felicity whined. As your friends started fighting for snacks, you excused yourself to the hallway. You wanted to talk to the staff about your stage outfit, there was a part that was itchy, and you wanted to see if they had cloth to stick under it.

As you walked down the hallway, someone pulled you into a corridor, you yelped until you saw it was Jake.

“Hey.” He smiled down at you.

“You know people are filming behind the scenes stuff around every corner.” You looked around, his hand still holding yours.

“I already cheeeecked.” Jake spoke, he looked at you, “its weird seeing you in an idol getup.”

You looked up at him, eyebrows furrowing, “what do I look bad?”

“WHAT NO!” He said loudly, now waving his hands around in defense. You started laughing as you leaned against the wall in front of him. You had to create some sort of distance- just in case.

“I am excited to see your performance tonight.” You now calmed down from your laughter, Jake grinned at you.

“I’m excited for you to see it, I feel bad for not being able to see you often.” The second part of the sentence was quieter.

You smiled and rolled your eyes, “you see me if our lunches match up.”

“You know its not enough.” He stepped closer to you, his hand held yours again. He went to lean in to kiss you, but you heard one of his members calling for him.

“Duty calls…” You whispered to him before skipping off.

~+~

All the performances went smoothly, your group went live at the end and people started leaving comments about something.

“Did you see Enhypen’s reaction to the performance?” Kim read aloud. You were messing with your pajama pants on Q’s hotel bed as the live went on.

“No… Did they hate it?” Jade joked and looked around.

Q started laughing and looked at the comments with Kim.

“Jake looked like a dog watching it!?” Felicity said, peeking over the two older girl’s shoulders. You turned away from the camera pretending to sneeze to hide your smile. He was so dumb, in a good way of course.

“Enhypen is a group that helps us a lot,” Kim started.

She continued to explain how the group helps your group train, how you all were thankful for them. At the beginning of becoming an idol and even during that time there are a lot of struggles, so having friends really helps.

At the end of the live you guys went to your separate rooms, you all decided to pay out of pocket if you wanted a separate one. You flopped on your bed, exhausted. You were still jetlagged and so when there was a knock on your door, you sighed and got up.

When you looked through the peephole you saw a familiar mask. You swung open the door and pulled him in.

“What are you doing here?” You shut the door behind him.

“I wanted to see you, I have the day off tomorrow, do you?” He giggled and took his shoes off, and put his bag down, make yourself comfortable you guess.

“Yeah, I do why?”

You sat down on your bed, and he flopped next to you, “I emailed you something.”

You couldn’t help but laugh, “you emailed me something? What year is it 2008?”

Jake gave you a deadpan look before breaking out in a smile, “haha very funny… I also brought legos.”

Your eyebrow quirked up, “what kind?”

“Do you have no faith in me as a boyfriend?” Jake whined; you shoved him lightly.

“You aren’t my boyfriend! You haven’t asked me!” You whined back. Jake looked up at you, he was laying down. He had a look on his face. Like he was up to something.

“What.” You asked, “you have a devious look…”

“MY LOOK OF LOVE ISNT DEVIOUS!”

You quickly covered his mouth, “you are so loud!” You started laughing and he smiled behind your hands. He muffled something, you looked confused. He muffled again before uncovering your hands.

“Check your email!”

“Fine fine!” You laughed and got up to check your phone, you stood leaning against the hallway. You opened your email and looked at him one last time before reading it.

“Oh my god…”

You already heard Jake’s giggles, you didn’t even have to look at him, “we are going to Disneyland!?”

“You mentioned it on our first date that you wanted to go! Plus, they have that Tangled section too!” Jake said and got up. You felt like crying, like you didn’t deserve him. When he was in front of you, you sat your phone down and hugged him.

“One thing though…”

You pulled away as he spoke, “only my girlfriend gets to go with me.”

“Making another deal with me?” You teased him, your arms around his neck. Jake grinned down at you.

“Is it working?”

“Yeah, it is. It’s a deal.” You smiled and kissed him.

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